Chapter Text
"Journal Entry Nr. 176. March 21 XXXX
My siblings - precisely Lynette - insisted on me finding new friends besides them. I have to admit, they were right. I really needed new friends. And so my journey to befriend new people began. There was so many people that I can't remember them all... Although there was one person that... left quite an impression upon myself. Her name was Charlotte, a Reporter for the Steambird. I met her shortly before me, Lyney and Lynette were saying our farewells to the Traveller as they left Fontaine. She is quite the talkative type, always rambling about interviews, and running after hot topics... But, her voice is so soothing... It makes me want to listen to her more and more. I'm worried that I might have fallen in love with her."
He leaves his pen midair, and begins to ponder turning to face his clockwork toy penguin, Pers who's placed on his desk.
"I didn't fall in love, right? Right? I mean... Sure, she is beautiful and all, but... Wouldn't it complicate my work as a fatui soldier? What if she finds out? Or worse... What if she's the next person in debt that I will have to kill?"
Pers' expression remains unchanged as he is but a toy Freminet himself constructed. The boy however, frowns.
"Right. I'm talking to myself again... That new friends plan was a good idea after all. I should get some rest..."
He sets his pen down and gets up from the desk lying down onto his bed.
'It's going to be that dream again, isn't it?' He thought to himself, closing his eyes. Shifting onto his right side, he tucked his hands under his head and began to fall asleep...
He got a full hour of sleep before getting woken up by Lyney.
"Wakey-Wakey sleeping beauty! It's a pretty day outside and you are rotting in your bed instead of living life!"
Lyney sure was the energetic type, probably something to do with his cat lineage part of his genetics.
"Can you not be so noisy?" The younger boy exclaimed. "I just lied down..."
"Tired? Then some exercises will wake you up!"
"Lyney..." A hoarse sound came out of Freminets mouth as he was pulled up to his feet. "Do you really have to...?"
"If you want you can still rot in bed-" Lyney said as he got cut off.
"I'll do that then..." Freminet said as he lied back down on his bed.
"I swear. Each day you're getting lazier. Do you want "Father" to see you in that state? Or, do you want to be her good boy, and will you get up from your bed to eat breakfast with us?"
Freminet thought to himself for a moment. "Fine..." He exclaimed as he got up, lazily making his way to the dining table.
"Hello brother." An emotionless voice of a woman spoke out. "I suppose you slept well and are hungry, considering it's almost ten in the morning." Lynette scolded him.
"Sorry... Pulled an All-nighter by accident. Didn't sleep much..." The shy boy explained whilst scratching the back of his head. "Sorry again..."
"All-nighter?" Both twins look at him with concern. "What you stayed up thinking 'bout, hm?" Lyney asked placing plates and cutlery onto their table.
Freminet looked away with a slight blush. He began fidgeting with his fingers afterwards. "Stuff..."
"Stuff... Uh-huh... Sure..." The boy sure wasn't buying that. "Don't you want to tell us something brother?" The girl asked sceptically.
Freminet just shrugs. "Not really... Can we just eat, instead?"
"Sure..."
After a few minutes of preparations they ate their breakfast. Well not exactly. Freminet ate very little, as his mind was... running wild with dirty thoughts about himself and Charlotte which made him blush.
"You alright there Freminet?" Lynette for the first time this week showed any emotion. "You're blushing and ate barely anything. You think we're dumb? Tell us if something is bothering you."
"Do I have to?" The boy frowned slightly.
"Yes." The twins said in unison.
"Was either of you two in love?..."
"Love?" Lynette said her tone cold. "How do you define love, hm?"
Freminet was stunned, not knowing how to reply. He thought for a moment and finally replied.
"That fuzzy feeling in you stomach, the fact that you blush when you talk or think about them... Uhm... The fact they can't leave your mind at all..."
"Hm... I don't recall experiencing any on that." She turns her head to look at Lyney. "Maybe you brother?"
"Hmm... Many times..." Lyney starts. "The most recent one was with the Traveller..."
"I heard she's married." Lynette added.
"Really?" Lyney jumped at that. "To whom?"
"The 11th harbinger."
"To master Childe?!? DAMN!" Lyney was most likely taken aback. "I fumbled the bag..."
"Yes. Yes you did." His siblings said instantly, as if they had one mind that's connected.
"Why did you ask anyway? Someone causing butterflies in your stomach, 'eh?" The oldest said nudging Freminet with his elbow.
"M-Maybe... I won't tell you either way. Knowing you, you'd tell it to everyone the first occasion you'd get."
"That...! Is true... I won't lie." Lyney admitted with a guilty grin.
"Are you two done bickering? Done? Great. Let's continue breakfast." The cat lady said.
They ate their breakfast with Lyney occasionally cracking jokes. They were funny, to a point.
As breakfast came to an end, Freminet felt an overwhelming urge to talk about Charlotte but resisted. The twins, sensing his unease, exchanged glances.
“Alright, spill it out, Freminet,” Lyney demanded. “We can tell something is on your mind.”
Freminet sighed deeply, knowing he couldn’t keep it bottled up forever. “It’s about Charlotte...”
“Ah, the reporter girl,” Lynette remarked, raising an eyebrow. “What about her?”
“I think... I think I might be in love with her,” Freminet confessed, feeling the weight of the words lift slightly off his chest.
Lyney’s eyes widened with surprise and delight. “Our little brother in love! That’s wonderful!”
“Is it?” Freminet replied with uncertainty. “I’m not sure if it’s wonderful or terrifying. I don’t even know if she feels the same way about me.”
“Well, have you told her how you feel?” Lynette asked pragmatically
.“No, I haven’t. What if she doesn’t feel the same? Or worse, what if she does find out who I really am and what I do for a living?” Freminet’s face darkened at the thought.
Lyney put a reassuring hand on Freminet’s shoulder. “Look, love is a risk. But it’s worth taking. You’ll never know unless you try.”
“Besides,” Lynette added, “if she’s a good reporter, she might already know more about you than you think.”
Freminet chuckled weakly. “That’s not comforting, Lynette.”
She shrugged. “It’s the truth.”
Freminet spent the rest of the day mulling over his siblings’ advice. As the evening approached, he decided to take a walk to clear his mind. The streets of Fontaine were bustling with activity, yet Freminet felt oddly detached from it all.
His feet carried him to a familiar place—the small café where he had first met Charlotte. He took a seat by the window, hoping the ambiance would offer some clarity.
As fate would have it, Charlotte walked in moments later. Her eyes lit up when she saw him. “Freminet! What a pleasant surprise!”
Freminet’s heart skipped a beat. “Charlotte, hi. What brings you here?”
“Oh, just chasing down a story as usual,” she replied with a wink. “Mind if I join you?”
“Not at all,” Freminet said, trying to keep his voice steady.
They chatted for a while, Charlotte animatedly discussing her latest article. Freminet found himself getting lost in her voice, just as he had before. After some time, Charlotte leaned in closer, her expression turning serious.
“Freminet, is something bothering you? You seem... distant.”
Freminet hesitated, glancing around the café to ensure they wouldn’t be overheard. He took a deep breath and decided to confide in her, albeit cautiously. “It’s about my ‘Father’... You met her already, there's no point in hiding... She’s not feeling good lately... She’s bedbound, coughing, and all…”
Charlotte’s face softened with concern. “I’m so sorry to hear that. Is there anything I can do to help?”
Freminet shook his head. “No, but thank you. It’s just... a lot to handle right now.”
She reached across the table and placed a hand on his. “If you ever need to talk, I’m here. I know we haven’t known each other long, but I consider you a friend, Freminet.”
Her touch sent a warm sensation through him, and for a moment, his worries seemed to melt away. “Thank you, Charlotte. That means a lot to me.”
They continued to talk, the conversation gradually shifting to lighter topics. As the night drew on, Freminet felt a renewed sense of hope. Perhaps, despite the complexities of his life, there was room for something as wonderful as love.
The next few days passed in a blur. Freminet continued his duties, balancing his work with the Fatui and his time spent with his siblings. But his thoughts frequently drifted back to Charlotte. Her voice, her laughter, the way she seemed genuinely interested in him—these memories kept him going, even when the pressures of his role threatened to overwhelm him.
One evening, as Freminet was tinkering with a new gadget in his workshop, he heard a knock on the door. To his surprise, it was Charlotte.
"Charlotte! What are you doing here?" Freminet asked, setting down his tools.
"I hope I'm not intruding," she said, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "But I have a favor to ask."
"Of course, what is it?" Freminet replied, trying to hide his delight at seeing her.
"I’m working on a new article, and I was hoping you could help me with some of the technical details. It's about Fontaine’s latest technological advancements, and I know you’re quite the expert."
Freminet felt a surge of pride. "I’d be happy to help. What do you need to know?"
As they delved into the intricacies of Fontaine’s technology, Freminet found himself opening up more than he had anticipated. Charlotte’s curiosity and enthusiasm were infectious, and he enjoyed sharing his knowledge with someone who appreciated it.
Hours passed, and before they knew it, the night had deepened. Charlotte looked at the clock and gasped. "Oh, I didn’t realize it was so late! I should probably head home."
Freminet felt a pang of disappointment but nodded. "Let me walk you home. It’s the least I can do after all your hard work today."
They walked through the quiet streets of Fontaine, the city’s lights casting a warm glow around them. As they reached Charlotte’s doorstep, she turned to him with a smile. "Thank you for tonight, Freminet. I had a great time.""Me too," he replied, his heart racing. "I hope we can do this again."
"Definitely," she said softly. "Goodnight, Freminet."
"Goodnight, Charlotte."
As he walked back home, Freminet felt a sense of contentment he hadn’t felt in a long time. Maybe his siblings were right. Maybe allowing himself to connect with others was exactly what he needed.
The following days saw a new routine emerging. Freminet and Charlotte met frequently, sometimes under the guise of discussing her article, other times simply to enjoy each other’s company. The bond between them grew stronger, and Freminet found himself increasingly at ease with her.
"Journal Entry Nr. 239. January 13 XXXX
Last year was... Eventful, to say the least. One: "Father" died due to her curse. Two. Lyney got promoted to the position as the new "King" of The House of the Hearth. I won't lie, I am a bit sad because that means he won't have as much freetime as before. But me and Lynette will also have a chance for promotion from Agents. So, that's a win for us, I guess.
On a more personal note, my relationship with Charlotte has evolved in ways I never anticipated. We spent more time together over the year, and I found myself opening up to her about things I never thought I would share with anyone outside of my family. She's been incredibly supportive, especially after "Father's" passing. I don't know how I would have managed without her presence.
It's strange, really. Falling in love. I never thought it would happen to me, especially given my duties and the constant danger of my work. Yet, here I am, feeling things I can't quite put into words. I still haven't fully confessed to her—my feelings, my fears about my work, the dark side of my life. I fear that one day she might discover the full extent of what I do, and I don't know how she would react.
But for now, I choose to cherish the moments we have together. Charlotte's voice, her laughter, the way she looks at me with those eyes full of curiosity and understanding—it all makes life feel a little less burdensome. I can't say where this will lead, but I am willing to find out, one day at a time.
Lynette, ever the pragmatist, keeps reminding me to stay focused on our goals. With Lyney's new position, the dynamics in the House of the Hearth are changing. Lynette and I must be ready to step up and take on more responsibilities. Our future as a family depends on it.
Yet, even with these responsibilities looming over me, I find a strange sense of peace. Perhaps it's because, for the first time in a long while, I have something—or rather, someone—worth fighting for outside of my siblings.
So here I am, balancing my duties as a Fatui soldier and my budding relationship with Charlotte. It's a delicate act, but it's one I'm determined to master. For the sake of my family, for the sake of Charlotte, and for the sake of the future I hope to build.
Here's to another year of challenges, growth, and perhaps, even more love."
“Whatcha doin’?” A curious voice spoke out from behind Freminet which made the boy jump.
“GOD! Lyney! Don’t scare me like that!”
“Sorry, Frem. Part of the cat lineage. Silent predator type and stuff…”
Freminet rolled his eyes, trying to steady his racing heart. “You could at least give a warning. What if I was in the middle of something important?”
Lyney raised an eyebrow, glancing at the journal in Freminet’s hand. “Like writing in your diary?” he teased, leaning against the doorway. “What’s so secretive that it’s got you all jumpy?”
Freminet blushed, snapping the journal shut. “It’s not a diary, it’s a journal. And it’s just… personal stuff. You know, reflections on the past year and all.”
Lyney’s expression softened. “I get it, Frem. A lot has happened. And I know it’s not easy adjusting to all these changes. But you know, we’re in this together. No matter what.”
Freminet nodded, a small smile tugging at his lips. “Yeah, I know. It’s just… sometimes it feels overwhelming. Balancing everything. The responsibilities, the emotions. Especially with
Charlotte...”
Lyney’s eyes widened with interest. “Ah, Charlotte. So, things are getting serious, huh?”
Freminet shrugged, feeling a mix of embarrassment and happiness. “Maybe. I mean, I really like her. She’s been there for me in ways I never expected.”
Lyney’s playful demeanor softened into genuine warmth. “I’m happy for you, Frem. Just remember, it’s okay to lean on others. You don’t have to carry everything on your own.”
Freminet took a deep breath, feeling a sense of relief wash over him. “Thanks, Lyney. I’ll try to remember that.”
Lyney nodded, pushing off the doorway and walking over to ruffle Freminet’s hair. “Good. Now, how about you finally get dressed, hm?” The older boy glanced at the suit laying on the younger’s bed. “We’re gonna be late for my official promotion to the ‘king.’”
“Oh, right… It’s today…” A frown appeared on his face.
“Why sad? Got plans for today?” Lyney was concerned.
Freminet sighed, running a hand through his hair. “It’s not that I’m sad, it’s just… I guess I’m feeling a bit nostalgic. Everything is changing so quickly, and I’m trying to keep up. Your promotion, our new roles, my relationship with Charlotte… it’s a lot to take in.”
Lyney nodded understandingly. “I get it, Frem. Change can be scary, but it’s also a chance for growth. Look at how far we’ve come already. From the awful House of Hearth to our own abode, our own expenses and our 'own' life! And think about all the good that can come from these changes. We’re all stepping into new roles, yes, but we’re doing it together. As a family.”
Freminet smiled, feeling the weight on his shoulders lighten just a bit. “You’re right. I guess I just need to embrace it and trust that we can handle whatever comes our way.”
“That’s the spirit,” Lyney said with a grin. “Now, let’s get ready. We have a big day ahead, and I need my best man by my side.”
Freminet nodded, feeling a sense of determination settle in his chest. He looked at the suit on his bed and then back at Lyney. "Alright, I'll get ready. I wouldn't miss your big day for anything."
As Freminet dressed, his thoughts drifted back to Charlotte. The moments they had shared over the past year were some of the happiest of his life. He remembered the quiet afternoons they spent together, talking about everything and nothing, and the way she always seemed to know when he needed comfort or encouragement. Her presence had become a beacon of light in his often tumultuous world.
He also recalled the times he had almost told her the truth about his work, the dangerous missions, and the secrets he kept hidden. But each time, fear held him back. He didn't want to burden her with the darkness of his life or risk losing her if she couldn't accept the reality of who he was. It was a delicate balance, one he wasn't sure he could maintain forever.
Lyney’s promotion to "King" of the House of the Hearth marked a significant shift in their lives. It meant more responsibilities and less time for personal matters. But it also offered new opportunities. Freminet and Lynette's potential promotions from Agents to higher ranks would bring them closer to the inner circle of power within the House. It was a chance to make a real difference and to secure their future.
As Freminet adjusted his tie in the mirror, he resolved to face these changes head-on. He would support Lyney in his new role, strive for his own advancement, and continue to nurture his relationship with Charlotte. He wanted to be the kind of person she could be proud of, someone worthy of her love and trust.
Just as he finished dressing, Lynette walked in, her eyes sharp and assessing. "You ready?" she asked, her tone brisk but not unkind.
Freminet nodded. "Yeah, I think so."
Lynette gave him a rare smile. "Good. Today is important for all of us. Let's make it count."
Together, they joined Lyney and headed to the grand hall where the promotion ceremony would take place. The House of the Hearth was buzzing with activity, members preparing for the formalities and celebrations. The atmosphere was a mix of anticipation and pride, a testament to the significance of the occasion.
As they entered the hall, Freminet couldn’t help but feel a surge of pride for his brother. Lyney stood tall and confident, ready to assume his new role with grace and determination. The ceremony was a blur of speeches, oaths, and applause, culminating in the moment when Lyney was officially named "King" of the House of the Hearth.
The cheers rang out, echoing off the ornate walls of the hall as Lyney accepted the ceremonial crown, a symbol of his newfound leadership. Freminet watched, his heart swelling with admiration for his brother's accomplishments. Despite the challenges they had faced, they had persevered, carving out a place for themselves in the tumultuous world of the House of the Hearth.
As the cheers subsided and the formalities of Lyney's promotion came to a close, he stepped forward, his voice commanding the attention of everyone in the hall.
"Thank you all for your support and trust," Lyney began, his words carrying a note of solemnity despite the celebratory atmosphere. "But before we continue our festivities, there are two individuals whom I must recognize for their unwavering dedication and commitment to our cause."
All eyes turned to Lynette and Freminet, who stood side by side, their expressions a mix of curiosity and anticipation.
"Agent Lynette," Lyney said, his voice ringing out with pride, "you have proven yourself time and time again as a formidable force within our ranks. Your strategic prowess and unwavering determination have earned you the respect of all who serve alongside you."
Turning to face Freminet, Lyney's gaze softened, a rare smile gracing his lips. "And Agent Freminet," he continued, "your bravery and tenacity in the face of danger have not gone unnoticed. You have shown time and again that you are willing to put yourself on the line for the greater good."
With a flourish, Lyney took out two insignias, each bearing the emblem of the Fatui. "Today, I am honored to promote you both to the esteemed ranks of Fatui Wind and Frost Operatives." He declared, his voice ringing out with authority.
The hall erupted into applause once more as Lynette and Freminet stepped forward to accept their new titles, their chests swelling with pride. For them, this was more than just a promotion—it was a recognition of their years of dedication and sacrifice, a validation of their place within the House of the Hearth.
As the celebrations continued well into the night, Lynette and Freminet found themselves surrounded by well-wishers, congratulating them on their achievements. And amidst the revelry, a sense of camaraderie and solidarity filled the air, binding them together as they faced the challenges that lay ahead.
After the formalities concluded, the hall erupted into celebration. Members of the House mingled, congratulating Lyney and toasting to the future. Freminet found himself caught up in the festivities, laughing and chatting with familiar faces, the weight of his worries momentarily lifted by the joyous atmosphere.
But amidst the revelry, his thoughts kept drifting back to Charlotte. He wondered if she would have enjoyed the ceremony, if she would have been proud of him and his siblings. He longed to share this moment with her, to feel her hand in his as they navigated the crowded hall together.
Eventually, as the celebration began to wind down, Freminet found himself standing alone in the quiet of the hall. The echoes of laughter faded into the background, replaced by a sense of contentment and purpose. He knew that their journey was far from over, that there would be more challenges and hardships ahead. But for now, in this moment, surrounded by his family, he felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude.
With a smile on his face and determination in his heart, Freminet took one last look around the hall before heading out into the night. He knew that whatever the future held, he would face it with courage and resilience, supported by the love of those closest to him. And as he walked into the darkness, he felt a glimmer of hope, knowing that no matter what trials lay ahead, they would face them together, as a family.
Amidst the jubilant atmosphere, Lynette and Freminet shared a knowing glance, a silent acknowledgment of the new responsibilities that awaited them. They had worked tirelessly to earn their place within the ranks of the Fatui, and now, with their promotions secured, they were ready to embrace the challenges that lay ahead.
As the night wore on and the celebrations began to wind down, Lynette and Freminet found themselves pulled aside by their fellow operatives, eager to offer their congratulations and support. It was a humbling experience, to be recognized by their peers in such a meaningful way, and it filled them with a renewed sense of purpose.
But amidst the flurry of activity, Freminet couldn't shake the feeling of apprehension that lingered in the back of his mind. With his new rank came greater responsibilities, and he knew that the dangers he faced in his line of work would only increase. And yet, despite the uncertainties that lay ahead, he found comfort in knowing that he had his siblings by his side, ready to face whatever challenges came their way.
As the night drew to a close and the last of the guests departed, Freminet found himself alone with his thoughts once more. He glanced down at the insignia that now adorned his uniform, a tangible reminder of how far he had come since his days as a mere trainee of the House of the Hearth. It was a symbol of his dedication and perseverance, a testament to the sacrifices he had made in service to his family and his cause.
With a sense of determination burning in his chest, Freminet took one last look around the empty hall before making his way out into the night. The road ahead would be fraught with challenges and dangers, but he faced it with a newfound sense of purpose, knowing that he was not alone in his journey. And as he disappeared into the darkness, the echoes of Lyney's words rang in his ears, filling him with a sense of hope for the future that lay ahead.