Chapter Text
Qingyun Peak is renowned for being one of the tallest locations in Liyue. When night falls, the atmosphere becomes peaceful, with a clear sky and sparkling stars illuminating the area. The chilly and refreshing air carries the faint aroma of pine and rustles through the tree leaves, while the melodic chirping of crickets in the distance creates a relaxing orchestra of natural sounds. The view is calming and idyllic, capable of comforting the most anxious spirit and providing a sense of peace and satisfaction.
There, a foreign traveler from a far-off land sat at Dwelling in the Clouds, savoring the refreshing gusts that blew through the area. The stillness of the night made it an ideal place to rest after a long day of adventuring.
However, something felt off this time, an unsettling feeling creeping into his chest. The wind, which had been soothing before, now carried a foreboding sense of sorrow.
He sat there, lost in thought, for what felt like hours, staring blankly at the sky as he reached out to try and touch the stars. He used to fly across the sky, traverse the world, and explore the universe with his golden wings along with his sibling. Now, that was no longer possible and his only family he had was separated. His melancholy was palpable from the sadness in his eyes, and even Paimon's attempts to comfort him were in vain. He felt like a completely different person, one weighed down by a burden he couldn't shake off.
"Why did she join the Abbys? What is the meaning of 'the truth of this world'? Why didn’t you just come with me and then we can go home, sister? After for so long we could have been together, yet you still go away … Why?" So many questions swirled around him, but no clear answers.
After so long of being separated, he had finally been given the chance to reunite with his sister. His heart was filled with anticipation as he waited for her arrival, but when she finally appeared, she simply walked away like nothing happened. The pain of their past separation resurfaced, and the wound in his heart tore out again. The hope he had held onto for so long now felt like a distant dream, and he was left alone with his thoughts, wondering if they would ever be truly reunited.
A gentle voice broke the stillness beside him, and he turned to see the familiar person looking at him with a hint of concern. "You're going to freeze up here all by yourself, Aether.” she said, a small smile playing on her lips. "Paimon sent me to check on you, and she also told me you haven't eaten yet. I brought some food for us to share."
"You always seem to find me when I need it most." He said with a grateful smile. "I don't know what I'd do without you, Keqing."
Aether's heart warmed at the sight of Keqing's homemade meal. The tension and worry began to dissipate, replaced by a sense of calm that came from being in her company. Keqing always seemed to know just what he needed, even when he didn't quite understand it himself.
They shared a quiet laugh before settling back into a comfortable silence. Aether felt content to simply be in Keqing's presence, and for a while, they sat together in companionable silence, watching the stars twinkle overhead.
After they finished their meal, Keqing turned to him with a look of concern.
"So, did you find your sister? Did it go well?" she asked gently.
Aether's expression darkened as he replied, "Yes, but she slipped away from me again… after all this time." He clenched his fists and slammed his knee, frustrated that he hadn't been able to reach her in time.
"At least we know she's still alive." Keqing said while resting her head on his chest and patted his head gently to offer some comfort.
"Thanks, Keqing.” Aether said with a small smile. "I want to show her the beauty of this world and specially…I want to introduce you to her too."
Keqing's face flushed at Aether's words. "A-as your girlfriend?" she asked tentatively.
Aether's smile grew wider as he patted her head. "More than that." he said softly. "We've known each other for a while now, and every time I go out on quests, I just want to finish quickly so I can see you."
"I feel the same way" Keqing admitted, smiling back at him. "I hate being apart from you."
Keqing couldn't forget the way Aether's shining golden eyes had gleamed with unwavering determination as she met him at Guizong Ballista. She had been struck not only by his impressive physical prowess, but also by the way he had fiercely protected those around him. It was in that moment that she had felt a deep respect for him. Later, as they faced the chaotic and dangerous Osla, Keqing saw how Aether never wavered in his duty to keep his companions safe. He had risked his own life to protect them, showing a selflessness that she had rarely seen. From that moment on, she knew that Aether was someone she could trust with her life.
Enchanted by her beauty and elegance, Aether found himself constantly stealing glances at Keqing as they journeyed together. Mesmerized by the way her hair shimmered in the sunlight and the grace with which she moved, he felt himself being drawn to her. But it was not just her gorgeous appearance that captured his attention. Aether was in awe of Keqing's sharp mind and unrelenting determination. Her piercing gaze could cut through any obstacle in their path, and her melodic voice was a soothing balm on their long travels. Grateful for her unwavering loyalty to their cause, Aether felt a sense of comfort whenever she was near, and he knew that he could always rely on her to be his steadfast companion.
Despite months of fruitless searching for his sister, Aether struggled to remain optimistic. But Keqing was always there to cheer him up and keep him on track. With her help, he felt more confident on his journey, and her presence made him feel safe and happy. They had become close friends over time, sharing their personal stories and supporting each other through the ups and downs of life in Teyvat. Aether found himself relying on Keqing more and more as they faced new challenges together.
Keqing's birthday was a special day for both of them, and she invited Aether on a date to celebrate. The evening was perfect - over a candlelit dinner at a fancy restaurant in Liyue Harbor, they talked and laughed like old friends. As the night wore on, their conversation grew more intimate, and they both realized that their feelings for each other ran deeper than they had ever imagined.
"Hey, do you remember our first date?" Keqing asked Aether, smiling at the memory.
"Of course, I do." Aether replied, returning the smile. "I was so nervous; I almost didn't recognize you without your Qixing attire. But you looked stunning, as always."
Keqing laughed. "You were so formal with me at first. I had to remind you that we were just there as friends, not as members of the Qixing. It took you a while to relax and be yourself."
Their relationship continued to blossom during the Lantern Festival, as Keqing showed Aether all the sights and sounds of Liyue. Aether appreciated all the time and effort she put into planning their outings, and he cherished every moment they spent together.
"Even though I'm not from Liyue, and not even from Teyvat, you still trust me and help me with everything. I really appreciate it." Aether said as he looked at her and held her hand.
"You're a capable person. You make up your own mind, you ask the questions everyone else is too afraid to ask, and when you don't get an answer, you keep looking until you find one. That's why I really like you. I want to know more about you." she said, squeezing his hand.
As Keqing and Aether talked, the moon slowly ascended, illuminating the surroundings with a gentle, blue light. The peacefulness of the environment was palpable, and it seemed to make everything around them more tranquil. It was as if time itself had slowed down, allowing them to fully savor the moment and each other's company. The moonlight seemed to enhance the intimacy between them, as they shared stories and thoughts while sitting close to each other. The night was young, but the time they spent together already felt like a cherished memory.
"By the way, you mentioned to me before that you're from another world, right?" Keqing asked, her curiosity piqued. "That explains why you look a bit different from the others here, with your shiny golden hair and eyes."
"Yes, that's right." Aether confirmed, a hint of pride in his voice. "My sister and I have travelled to many different worlds and met all kinds of people. Some were friendly, while others were not so much. But they were all fascinating in their own way."
"You must have seen and experienced so many incredible things." Keqing remarked, her eyes shining with excitement.
"Indeed." Aether nodded, a wistful smile crossing his face. "We've seen the birth and death of stars, the rise and fall of civilizations, and even the beginning and end of entire worlds. It's humbling to realize how small we are in the grand scheme of things. Each journey we take is like a fleeting moment to us, but it's also a reminder of the beauty and fragility of life."
He paused for a moment before continuing, his expression turning a little more serious. "But then we got stuck here, separated from sibling and with my powers lost. I was feeling hopeless until I met Paimon, the people of Teyvat, and especially you. You've given me hope again."
Keqing's heart swelled with admiration and affection for Aether. The idea of what lay beyond Teyvat fascinated her, but more than that, she was drawn to Aether's spirit and resilience.
As the conversation flowed, Aether's words took on a new meaning. "Keqing, I want to be with you forever. Will you stay with me?" he asked, his eyes filled with sincerity and longing, and his hand still tightly holding hers.
However, as much as she wanted to say yes, Keqing began to realize something unsettling.
How long was "forever"?
Could anything truly last that long?
The feeling of uneasiness that gripped her heart. Despite the beautiful and serene surroundings, her mind was clouded with uncertainty about the future. She knew that she and Aether couldn't stay together forever. As much as she tried to push those thoughts aside, they kept creeping back into her mind.
She looked at Aether, who was lost in thought, and wondered if he had thought about this too. Did he understand the weight of their situation? Would he still want to be with her even if it meant watching her grow old and eventually leave him behind?
Keqing took a deep breath and found the courage to voice her fears. "Aether, if one day I'm no longer with you in this world?” Her voice shook with emotion as she continued:
“Will you remember me?"
…
The concept of immortality haunted her: Was it a blessing or a curse?
The realization that she would eventually pass away while Aether would continue to live on filled her with fear and sadness. How could he remember her when she was gone? Her time with him was like a star among billions in the sky, shining brightly for a brief moment before fading away into the darkness. How could they be together when their lives were so vastly different, when time was so finite for her and endless for him?
The question from Keqing left him lost in thought. The idea of losing someone he cares for deeply is already a difficult thought for him to process, but the thought of potentially forgetting them over time is even more distressing. Aether's travels have shown him the vastness of the universe and the nature of life, and he knows that memories can fade just as quickly as they are formed.
He had traveled through countless worlds and universes with his sister, and time had no meaning for them. However, he now understood the weight of mortality. Every moment with Keqing felt like a brief flicker of light in the vast expanse of time.
Perhaps that was why he had always been hesitant to form deep connections with others due to the pain of loss he had experienced before. The thought of seeing someone he cared for grow old and eventually pass away was unbearable for him and Keqing was no different.
The laws of nature were unforgiving, and no matter what he did, he could not escape them.
He had experienced the pain of missing his sister once, and the thought of losing Keqing terrified him. His love for her was so strong that he couldn't imagine life without her. Letting her go would not only shatter her trust in him but also break both of their hearts.
Aether's entire being trembled with an overwhelming surge of emotions. Tears flowed uncontrollably down his cheeks, leaving a trail of saltiness. His breathing became ragged, and his chest heaved with effort as he struggled to draw each breath. His fingers curled tightly into fists, the sharp sting of his nails digging into his palms. The weight of his fear and uncertainty pressed down on him, threatening to engulf him in a suffocating darkness. Every nerve in his body felt raw and exposed, as if he was standing on the edge of a deep abyss. The metallic taste of salt filled his mouth as he struggled to speak, to express the depth of his love and fear to Keqing. But the words caught in his throat, suffocated by his overwhelming emotions.
Seeing Aether like this, Keqing felt a strong urge to comfort and take care of him, to offer him the support he needed in that moment of weakness. Amid her own sobbing, she tried to apologize for her earlier question, "I'm sorry...I didn't mean to ask you this...I-"
Before Keqing could finish her sentence, Aether's arms enveloped her in a tight embrace, as if he was trying to hold on to her forever. His actions spoke louder than words, answering the question that Keqing had been wondering all along. It was a moment of pure love and unbridled emotion, and Keqing reciprocated the embrace with equal fervor.
They held onto each other tightly, they both knew that they felt the same way about each other. They were uncertain about what the future held for them, but for now, they had each other, and that was all that mattered. The warmth of each other's embrace and the beating of their hearts were the only sounds in the peaceful night, and they stayed like that for what felt like an eternity, lost in their own world of love and happiness.
Aether's gaze softened as he held Keqing's hand, his words pouring out in a gentle, heartfelt tone. "Keqing, I may have lived for thousands of years, but every moment spent with you feels like a lifetime of joy. The memories we have shared will never fade. You have made a mark on my heart that will last for eternity." He squeezed her hand reassuringly, as if to emphasize the depth of his feelings.
Keqing whispered softly, looking to his eyes in a moment of tenderness. "I promise to make you the happiest person you will ever know, no matter what happens. Our time together might be short, but the memories of being with you will live on forever."
Aether's voice was barely above a whisper as he replied, "You're the brightest star I've ever seen. I will be with you. I promise to make you happy too, even when our time together comes to an end. Our moments together will be as long as my life."
Moment later, they reluctantly parted, each gasping for breath. The moonlight illuminated Aether's eyes, which were now crystal-clear, yet brimming with tears, while Keqing's amethyst orbs glowed with a deep flush. Their hearts beat as one, and they shared a smile that spoke volumes, their emotions too intense for words.
"We may not have as long to live as you do, Aether," Keqing's voice was soft and tender, "but that just makes every moment we spend together all the more precious to me. The time I've spent pursuing my dream of the New Liyue, and especially the time I spend with you, I will cherish every single moment of it."
Once their conversation had come to an end, Keqing leaned in closer to Aether, eager to hear more about his incredible adventures. She loved listening to him talk about his experiences, and every story he shared brought something new and exciting to her. As he spoke, she hung on his every word, mesmerized by his tales of far-off lands and incredible feats. Aether's stories took her on a journey beyond her wildest dreams, and she enjoy every moment she spent listening to him.
“Can you tell me more about your adventure?” She asked.
"I still have many more stories to tell you, but it's getting late," Aether said, interrupting her thoughts. "You need to rest for work tomorrow."
"Don't worry, I already told them I'm taking the day off tomorrow, so you don't need to worry about it," Keqing replied, leaning in closer to him. "If I fall asleep, will you carry me home?"
"Of course," Aether said, smiling. "It's starting to sound like a bedtime story."
"I'd love to hear your stories often," Keqing said, her voice growing sleepier by the moment. "You can come to my home next time, and we can share stories together."
Aether's voice became low and steady as he described the magnificent world, its towering palaces, and bustling cities. He spoke of the great emperor who had ruled over the people with a just and steady hand for countless years, leading them to a golden age of prosperity and harmony. But the emperor knew that he could not rule forever, and so he devised a final test for his people - to see if they were capable of ruling themselves.
He then leaned in, his eyes bright with excitement as he spoke of the woman who had stepped forward to lead her people through the trial. She was fierce and determined, with a spirit that burned like a flame. Aether described how she had faced the challenges with courage and cleverness, rallying her people around her and inspiring them to greatness.
When the story reached its climax, Aether's voice swelled with emotion. He spoke of the moment when the emperor, impressed and moved by the woman's leadership, entrusted his nation to her and her people. Aether's eyes shone with pride as he finished the tale, and Keqing sat transfixed, caught up in the magic of his words.
"Before we left for another world, the emperor told us that we may have immortal life, but we must never forget the preciousness of each moment we have in front of us," Aether finished, smiling at Keqing, who had already fallen asleep on his shoulder, her face illuminated by the moonlight.
Aether held Keqing close, savoring the precious moments they shared and knowing that he would always cherish their time together, no matter where their adventures might take them next. With Keqing sound asleep on his back, he teleported to her home, the quiet streets of Liyue Harbor passing by in a blur. When he arrived at Keqing's balcony, her assistant was waiting to receive them and helped him carry Keqing to her room. Even in her sleep, Keqing clung tightly to Aether until he gently laid her on her bed and placed a blanket over her and gave her the Rex Lapis doll he had brought before.
Just when he turned to leave, he felt a strong pull on his cape and stumbled back onto the bed. Keqing's arms wrapped around him in a tight embrace, her face nuzzled into his chest.
“Don’t leave me…Not today…” She muttered.
Aether smiled to himself and thought "What a troublesome girl."
Realizing that Keqing wouldn't let him go, Aether settled in beside her, hoping that he wouldn't be in trouble in the morning. As he drifted off to sleep, he heard Keqing's gentle whisper, "I love you forever, Aether."
The warmth of her body, the sound of her heartbeat, and the steady rhythm of her breathing soon lulled him into a peaceful slumber.
End