Archive of Our Own ^beta

Lantern Rite was a chilly time in Liyue, emotionally and physically. It was the first since the loss of their archon, so it was no surprise that people seemed more subdued than past years. Plus, it was cold. Lumine did not like the cold. Neither did Paimon, if her incessant sneezing was any hint. By their side, Temeraire shoved his hands in his pockets. Even though his breath came out in little puffs of air, he didn’t have any goosebumps or any other indication of being cold. Lumine envied him. She wrapped her shawl more tightly around her shoulders with a scowl. By her side, Temeraire smirked.

“Cold? Missing the rainforest?”

“Shut it, asshole.”

They’d only been out of the rainforest for a week or two, and they’d been traveling Liyue with no urgency. It was sort of nice, in some ways. Lumine was still getting used to Temeraire’s presence, and he to hers. He and Paimon bickered constantly, but Lumine was getting good at tuning it all out. The puppet tended to complain about anything and everything, though most of it had very little heat behind it. Both of them took some degree of pleasure in argument, though not all the time. It was a learning process.

“Lumi, Temtem! Look!” Paimon waved her little arms with a huge grin, gesturing to Wanmin restaurant where Xiangling stood, serving another familiar face.

“Xiangling! Zhongli!” Lumine called, and both of her friends startled and turned to look. Xiangling beamed and bounded to catch Paimon in a bear hug, while Zhongli ambled over more slowly.

“Lumine, it’s a pleasure to see you again,” the former archon rumbled, and Lumine grinned.

“Zhongli, it’s lovely to see you. This is my newest companion, Temeraire.” She gestured back at the man in question, who smiled placidly and bowed ever-so-slightly.

“Lovely to meet you,” he said, fake smile firmly in place. Lumine rolled her eyes.

“And you as well,” Zhongli told him, returning the bow. “How have you been, my dear?”

“I’ve been alright. Xiangling!” The chef finally turned from Paimon to tackle Lumine, squealing all the way.

“Lumi! It’s been ages ! I’ve missed you! Oh, who’s your friend? I’m Xiangling, nice to meet you!” She ran straight for Temeraire, who flinched back. His smile wavered, but he let her shake his hand.

“I’m Temeraire. Nice to meet you as well.” Gods, he sounded so… Lumine hated when he was so fake, but she couldn’t blame him for hiding his abysmal personality. That being said, she was filled with a certain amount of pride at hearing him introduce himself with the name she gave him. She inched closer to him.

“I missed you too, Xiangling. How have you been?”

“I’ve been well! Lantern Rite is a busy time of year for me.”

“For me, as well,” Zhongli agreed. The man did look a little tired, though Lumine privately found it to be a character trait for him. He was slow moving and easygoing most of the time.

“That’s why we came; I wanted to be here for the festivities, and Temeraire hasn’t spent much time enjoying festivals, so here we are. After this, we’ll be heading out to enjoy the Windblume Festival in Mondstadt.”

“Oooh, that sounds so fun! Miss Hu Tao is hosting a party, and I’m sure she’d like to have you.”

“Will there be food? Ooh, will Xiangling be cooking? Paimon can’t wait!”

“Paimon, we can’t invite ourselves.”

“I can assure you, Director Hu would love to have you,” Zhongli interjected, gently touching Lumine’s arm. When he touched her, his hands were cold. Like stone, like Temeraire’s.

“I’ll ask her myself; I’m sure we’ll see her while we’re in town,” she compromised, and he hummed.

“She has been working on a music festival with a gentleman from Fontaine; if you’re so inclined, I imagine you might be able to help,” Zhongli said, taking Lumine’s arm and walking her back towards his table at the restaurant. Temeraire followed behind, and Paimon perched on Xiangling’s shoulder to ‘taste-test’ as she cooked. The three settled in, allowing Xiangling to cook for them. “So,” Zhongli murmured, resting his chin on his hands, “how did the two of you meet?”

Temeraire and Lumine looked at each other, appraising. The truth was… convoluted, to say the least. “We fought at first,” Lumine admitted, and Temeraire’s lip twitched towards a smile. “But we bonded over some mutual hatred. Getting to know each other a little better also helped.”

“She has bad taste in companions,” Temeraire said, bumping her shoulder with his. She blushed, but she still scowled at him. He never took his eyes off of Zhongli, squinting at him a little.

“If Lumine trusts you, then there’s nothing to worry about,” Zhongli dismissed with a wave of his hand. Temeraire just blinked.

“You’re quite trusting of a stranger, no?”

“I trust Lumine with my life. Besides, I’m quite capable myself,” Zhongli chuckled lowly. Tem frowned, but Lumine sighed. It was truly a compliment, especially from the former geo archon.

“Fair enough,” he decided, but Temeraire still seemed unsettled. Lumine touched his hand under the table, and he immediately took it. Over the time that they’d been traveling together, Lumine realized that Temeraire took some comfort from her touch. A surprising twist, but not unpleasant.

“Food is served!” Xiangling brought them a few fresh dishes, Paimon giggling like mad on her shoulder. Lumine grinned and extricated herself from Temeraire with one last squeeze.

The meal was lively, to say the least. Paimon and Xiangling spoke more than enough for the other three at the table, though they did interject occasionally. At one point, Lumine could only look at the Liyuans and shrug as Paimon and Temeraire insulted each other back and forth, but she smiled as she did.

While everyone was distracted, Zhongli simply told her, “I’m glad you’re happy.”

“Me too,” she whispered back, leaning her head on his shoulder, watching her people.

To most, it might seem strange for Lumine to be so content at her friends’ arguments, but it felt domestic in a way that most things in her life were not. Zhongli, she suspected, knew this feeling well.

“Remind me to tell you about Guizhong sometime; I think you would like the story.”

Lumine hummed and let her eyes drift shut to the sound of her friends’ voices. Sleep wouldn’t happen against the geo archon’s shoulder, but she was content to rest.

Some time later, Lumine and Temeraire made their way to the Wangshu Inn to stay the night. Paimon had already retired to the teapot, but the two of them preferred nights outside of the domain. For Lumine, she liked seeing the stars. For Temeraire, he hated the feeling of being trapped in a box.

“You’re close with Zhongli.” It wasn’t a question, and Lumine almost didn’t want to dignify the obvious spite with a response. Almost.

“Yeah, I am.”

“Who is he?”

“A friend.”

“That’s all?”

“What do you think he is?” She challenged, stopping on the trail. Temeraire’s lip curled as he stopped a few feet away.

“I’m just saying that you’re close. Am I wrong?”

With a sigh, Lumine pushed past him to keep walking. “No, you’re not wrong. I helped him out with a few things. Your lovely coworker is a mutual acquaintance of ours.” It was as much of an explanation as she was willing to give in the face of such blatant irritation.

“My– Oh. I take it things in Liyue didn’t proceed the way that the common folks perceive, then?” Temeraire frowned, but some of the hostility bled from his shoulders. Smart of him to figure out her meaning so quickly; Lumine couldn’t help but be impressed.

“I’m surprised that you weren’t aware already. No, things didn’t go the way Childe wanted them to, and he holds a bit of a grudge still because Zhongli won’t give him a proper fight after he duped him.”

Temeraire wrinkled his nose and fell back into step with her. “I see.” He paused for a long moment, then said, “There is absolutely no world in which I would call Childe a lovely coworker.” 

Lumine laughed as she turned to face him. It was dark, so she couldn’t tell, but there might’ve been a bit of a flush on his face as he rolled his eyes. “Lovely in comparison to the others that I’ve met, at least. And besides, he doesn’t know you anymore.”

What a strange thought. Childe wouldn’t remember Temeraire in the slightest, assuming the two ever met again. Not that she thought that the two voluntarily interacted terribly often in the Fatui, but still. Strange. By her side, Tem hummed. “Thank the archons.”

They walked in silence again, their hands brushing as they went.

The next morning, Lumine set back out for Liyue Harbor ahead of Temeraire. She had some errands to run that her companion didn’t care for, so she left him to rest. For someone who insisted that he didn’t need to sleep, Temeraire enjoyed it a great deal. Instead, Paimon floated by her shoulder, holding on to the trail of her dress.

In fact, they spent the day together, just the two of them. Temeraire didn’t show himself all day, which suited Lumine fine. She ended up running around convincing Ninguang and Kexing that a music festival in Liyue Harbor was a great idea–which it was!-- at Hu Tao’s behest. To a certain degree, it was nice to feel useful to her friends, and Lumine liked helping people. But sometimes, she wished she could just step back and enjoy things instead of being a driving force behind them. Oh well, she thought.

Temeraire finally caught her as the sun set. She sat at the harbor with her feet in the water, Paimon dozing in her lap.

“I’ve been looking for you all day,” he complained, plopping himself beside her without letting his sandals drag in the waves. “Where have you been?”

“Running errands.” Sighing, Lumine allowed herself to rest her head on his shoulder. Temeraire froze, but only for a minute before he loosened up and rested his head on hers in turn. “I’m exhausted.”

“What did they have you doing, setting up the entire festival? Everyone I asked said that I’d just missed you.”

“Basically, yeah.”

“You’re an idiot,” he said without heat. Lumine could only nod.

They watched as the sky dimmed and then lit up again with the lights of the city.

“I love Liyue Harbor,” Lumine murmured against Temeraire’s shoulder. She was beginning to doze off; the lights of the city lulling her into peace. “‘S gorgeous out here.”

“I haven’t spent much time in Liyue,” Temeraire admitted, just as softly. “But it is quite beautiful.”

Stirring in Lumine’s lap, Paimon mumbled, “Teapot time?”

“Teapot time,” she agreed, but she didn’t move from where she was pillowed against Temeraire. Paimon blinked up at her, but she settled back down and closed her eyes quickly. The man allowed it, but only for a minute before he pulled away. Lumine caught herself before she tipped over, brow furrowed in a way that she hoped was menacing and irritating but in reality, came off adorable.

“Proper sleep in a proper bed,” was all he had to say for himself. He helped her to her feet and held Paimon himself.

“Rude,” Lumine said, but she pulled out her teapot and ushered everyone inside.

She dreamt of Temeraire, a proper dream this time as opposed to a shared one. When she woke up, Lumine didn’t remember what it was about, but she remembered his face in it. Warm, open… almost affectionate, even. With a sigh, the traveler spent a little extra time splashing cool water on her face that morning.

“What’s the plan for today?” Paimon asked between bites of breakfast. Her cheeks looked like a squirrel’s, and Lumine suppressed a smile.

“No plan. I think the music festival is proceeding as planned, and we still have a day or two until then, anyway. I was thinking just some regular commissions, if there are any this time of year.”

“Problems still happen even during the ‘happy’ times of the year,” Temeraire said, using air quotes.

“Just because you’re never happy doesn’t mean that it’s not a happy time of year,” Paimon shot back. The man simply curled his lip and rolled his eyes. It was too early for the two of them to properly fight; that would come later.

“Regardless, I can’t imagine we’ll be out of work.” Even saying that, he continued to glare daggers at Paimon.

“It doesn’t matter. I’m ready when you two are.” If Lumine had shoved her breakfast down her throat quicker than usual to usher the two out the door, that was nobody’s business but her own.

In the end, both of them were right. There weren’t too many commissions, but Hu Tao tracked them down to ask for more help with the music festival, so they had plenty to do. At least until that evening. After dinner, there was absolutely nothing to be done, so the three wandered Liyue Harbor.

“You have the worst taste in friends,” Temeraire complained, gesturing in the vague direction of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlour. Lumine could only laugh and nod.

“I wouldn’t say worst, but I could compromise with ‘weirdest.’”

“That, too. That woman is insane.”

“Hu Tao? Eccentric, sure. But not insane.”

“Gods above, you can find the good in anyone.” Temeraire snapped, and the blonde stopped. Was he actually complaining that she got along with all sorts of people?

“Is that supposed to be a bad thing?” Lumine asked, arms crossed. He stopped to turn back to her, scowling. Okay, so he was itching for a fight. The blonde was almost too tired for it. Almost.

“It’s just annoying. Why can’t you just accept that some people aren’t worth your time?”

“Because I don’t believe that, why else? Paimon was right; just because you’re not happy doesn’t mean other people can’t be.” Lumine had no fucking clue why he was arguing about her being nice to her friends, but she knew she was irritated by it. Why start a fight on a nice day like this? Either way, they were starting to draw stares. Paimon kept looking around awkwardly, hiding behind Lumine.

“Um, Paimon doesn’t want to be a part of your argument…” She mumbled into the traveler’s ear, but she was waved away.

“You spend time with all of these useless people who take up all of your time and you don’t ask anything in return! You’re just letting yourself be manipulated!”

“Oh, I’m sorry , your highness,” Lumine sneered with a mocking bow. “I don’t remember asking for your opinion on my friends and my relationships with them!”

“Maybe you should, since you’re clearly fuckin’ terrible at choosing them yourself!”

“Listen, Temeraire–” She started, but a heavy hand on her shoulder stopped her.

“Am I interrupting something?” A smooth, accented voice that she’d recognize anywhere cooed in her ear, and Lumine flinched. Of all the people to show up right then…

“Not at all!” Temeraire said, voice immediately shifting into false cheer. The most fake smile she had ever seen sat plastered on his face. “We were just…”

“Childe, what a pleasure,” Lumine cut off, turning to give the man a proper once-over. She didn’t hug him; they didn’t do that anymore. Not after Osial. But she could at least smile at him. The ginger’s own smile flickered at the reception, but he knew better than anyone that he deserved it.

“My dear traveler, I’ve missed you terribly! And then I just happen to find you on my evening stroll, and I get to see you heated! May the wonders never cease,” Childe said with a grin. The blonde rolled her eyes. Ever the weirdo, that one. That being said, she didn’t take her eyes off of him. Lumine didn’t trust Childe not to pull a blade on her in the street.

“I wish I could say it’s lovely to see you, but I think we both know that seeing you is a massive drag on my mood.” With her back to Temeraire, she didn’t see his smirk.

“Aw, don’t be like that, girlie,” Childe said with a laugh, waving his hand. “Couldn’t you spare some of that fire for me this evening? It’s been some time since I last got to fight you, you know.”

Honestly? Fighting Childe was a horrible idea. They tended to get into explosive fights, fights that reshaped the native landscape of Liyue. But it would be nice to blow off steam, to stop arguing over nothing with Temeraire…

“Ugh, you’ve caught me in a bad enough mood that I don’t mind kicking your ass.”

“Really?” He and Temeraire said in unison, though Temeraire was derisive and Childe was hopeful. Finally, the ginger’s gaze drifted over her shoulder to her companion, who had to school his expression back to pleasantry. “And who might this be?”

“Childe, this is Temeraire. We’re traveling together for a bit.”

Childe paused for a moment, looking over the puppet with thinly-veiled interest. Then, without warning, he slid a knife from his belt and threw it directly at Temeraire. Paimon yelped, Lumine turned to slam an elbow into Childe’s gut, but Temeraire just blew it away with his anemo. He looked utterly unimpressed, finally allowing his true personality and feelings out.

“You’re predictable,” the shorter of the two men said as Childe doubled over. Lumine resisted the urge to knee him in the chin after that display.

“I don’t get that too often,” he said after he took a moment to recover. That damned grin sat back on his face. Lumine couldn’t stand that stupid smile.

There was a time, back when they first met, when all Lumine wanted was to see Childe’s smile. He was so young, so pretty, so boyish when he smiled or laughed, and a big part of Lumine would’ve liked to make him smile more often. Then she’d look in his dead, empty eyes. After the Golden House and Osial, Lumine pushed those feelings right down into the dirt and resolved instead to beat him until he couldn’t force himself to smile ever again. A lofty goal, but she was more vindictive than she once was.

“Doesn’t mean it’s untrue. Get some new tricks,” Temeraire said, and Lumine took advantage of the distraction to pull out her teapot and hand it to Paimon.

“Go get some rest,” she told her friend. “I’ll be there later tonight.”

“Lumine, Paimon doesn’t know if this is a good idea,” Paimon said back, but the blonde shook her head.

“At this point, it’ll make me feel better.”

“Paimon trusts you, but be safe.”

Lumine kissed her little friend’s forehead. “Absolutely.” Paimon disappeared into the teapot, and then the traveler turned back to Childe. “Where are we headed? I’m not gonna destroy a city block just to kick the shit out of you.”

“Seriously? You’re going along with him?” If anything, Temeraire sounded even more mad than he had been when he was arguing with her. Oh well! Let him sulk.

“Outside the city, of course,” Childe said with a cold grin, already settling into combat mode. How was it so easy for him to shift moods?

“Where, idiot?”

“We’ll find someplace if we start walking!” Childe caught her arm in his and tugged her towards the entrance to Liyue Harbor. At the last second, he turned over his shoulder to say, “Temeraire, was it? Are you coming?”

“I’d really rather not,” he mumbled, but he followed anyway. Lumine had the decency to feel a little bad, at least. She knew that Temeraire had absolutely no desire to see Childe again, but at the same time, the blonde was irritated with his attitude, and Childe made a convenient punching bag. Arguing with Tem was fun, but she didn’t feel like getting into an actual altercation with him.

Childe, though? Lumine would fight Childe any day.

They walked together for a little while, catching up as they went. Lumine had little of substance to say to a Fatui Harbinger, so she kept the conversation light. Childe seemed perfectly content to go along with it, chattering about his siblings and family. As they walked, she watched his hands twitch for his weapons. No restraint.

“This seems fine.” They stopped as Childe gestured around the open cliffside. Did Lumine want to fight a maniac on a cliff? No! But she also didn’t have the energy to fight him on it, not when she’d be physically fighting him in a matter of minutes. In lieu of a proper response, she just hummed.

There was no further preamble. Before Lumine could blink, Childe had drawn his bow and fired off multiple arrows. In the distance, Lumine heard Temeraire shout something, but the blood rushed to her ears and she couldn’t make it out as she flipped back. Ever the opportunist, the ginger launched forward, dead eyes alight with mania as he created blades of hydro. Having fought Childe a few times, Lumine knew what to expect. She drew her own blade to block him, then forced him back with a good shove of wind.

“You are getting a little predictable,” Lumine called to him as they paced in circles around each other. He just laughed, eyes never leaving her.

“Maybe you’re just getting quicker, which is my mistake.”

“I don’t make mistakes against you,” she snapped back, a little too haughty. But somehow, whenever Childe opened his mouth, she remembered how she’d trusted him. She felt the guilt and shame of trusting him, and she burned.

Lumine struck first that time. Electro sped her towards him like a flash of lightning, and his grin widened. His delusion shimmered and he met her in the middle, sparks flying off of both of their blades. When the water brushed her, Lumine felt the shock travel up her arm. It weakened her enough for Childe to shove her back, but the traveler pulled up a massive dendro bloom between them and struck it with lightning to get him off her back. He stayed close, never retreating, but out of range of the hyperbloom.

“That’s a fun new toy you have there,” Childe said. Lumine didn’t dignify him with a response, but she clocked that her back was now to the cliff. She’d either have to push him back or get around him somehow, and the harbinger certainly knew that, too.

Lumine built up the wind under her feet and launched herself into the air. Childe immediately switched back to his bow, but Lumine didn’t stay airborne for long. Summoning a geo construct, she crashed back down to earth behind him and used it as a springboard to get in close again. Her sword flashed with lightning, and Childe was forced to block with his bow. She felt it crack with the force of her blow. Nevertheless, Childe’s smile never wavered. If anything, he seemed thrilled at the proximity.

He quickly showed her why. Holding his bow with both hands, he drew his knee up between them and kicked Lumine in the gut, hard . With a gasp, she doubled over, choking on vomit even as she scrambled backwards. Childe’s swords sliced across her shoulders, leaving thick cuts in their wake. He was quicker than she remembered, the switch from bow to blades smoother.

Lumine slammed a geo shield up between them so she could stand and spit out the disgusting mess in her mouth. The harbinger broke through quickly, but not soon enough that Lumine couldn’t catch her breath. She used the wind to throw the broken stones back at him, and when he got close again, Lumine once again used anemo to spring up into the air. Borrowing a technique from Temeraire, she launched bullets of wind laced with stones at the harbinger below her. Holding herself in the air was harder than she’d expected, but not the worst thing Lumine had ever tried to do.

One stone hit Childe square in the shoulder and another hit his knee. The traveler took advantage of the wince to dive down and slice across his chest, letting electro course through her blade. His blood splattered across her cheek and her white dress, but she pushed forward and swept his legs out from under him. As he fell, Childe wielded his blood like a blade to break his fall, a trick Lumine hadn’t seen before. She leapt backwards just in time to avoid the slice at her ankles, but she didn’t want to give him the time to get up, so she threw out dendro spores to bind his leg to the ground.

Her breath came out in pants, harsh and quick. She could see his chest heaving under his wound, and a tiny part of her felt bad. Lumine didn’t dwell on it. Instead, as Childe turned to cut his leg free, she lunged.

Only to get slapped in the face with a damn narwhal.

The wave of hydro bowled Lumine over, and she coughed and sputtered out water while Childe got his bearings with a strained chuckle. She hated him. She hated fighting him, and she hated him. Lumine could only focus on her hatred; her head swam and her arms burned, especially her shoulders, which oozed blood whenever she swung her sword. Trying to focus, trying to draw deeper breaths, it all did nothing. Looking at the eleventh harbinger’s smile made her want to scream.

Distracted, she chided herself. As the blonde stood and pushed wet bangs out of her face, Childe was there, still smiling. He swung his bloody blade first, the impact ringing up Lumine’s sword and arm as she blocked it with her own. With mounting horror, Lumine realized that her arms couldn’t keep up. Even with both hands at her hilt, he pushed her down and back. New plan.

Gritting her teeth, Lumine let Childe push her down and kicked his legs out from under him again. Unfortunately, the result was that he landed on top of her, further staining her dress and knocking the wind out of them both. Their arms awkwardly tangled with their swords, digging cuts into both of them. It took all of her energy, but Lumine flipped herself on top of the ginger. She had tunnel vision, staring holes into his eyes with a snarl on her face and in her throat. And he only smiled at her, gentle but smug.

“I’d hold my breath if I were you,” Childe told her, and Lumine didn’t have time to process that before she was once again smacked with a huge wave of water, presumably porpoise shaped. The water shoved her off of him with the force of the strongest tides, bowling her over and push, push, pushing her. Somewhere behind her, Lumine thought she heard Temeraire yell something, but she had to focus on the fact that she was falling through the air over the side of a cliff.

Okay , she thought, I’ve made smarter choices in my life . Lumine only had a few seconds to brace herself, and she used it to build up anemo energy to slow her fall. Still, her whole body screamed as she hit the ground. A pained moan forced itself from Lumine’s throat, and she curled up into a ball and lay still. Distantly, Temeraire was shouting, but she couldn’t focus. Her ears rung and her muscles spasmed as she pulled herself back together, piece by aching piece.

Head first. The headache was inevitable; Lumine tended to have one after any major fight. But as far as she could tell, there was no major damage. Not even a cut, which was relieving. Neck was sore, but not terrible either. From there, though, the damage worsened. Her shoulders bore deep, wide cuts from Childe’s blades. Moving her shoulders told Lumine that the muscles were probably fucked up, too, and wasn’t that just lovely? She hissed through her teeth and forced herself to roll her shoulders and stretch the abused muscles. Blood oozed from the wounds, but it wasn’t unbearable. Lumine’s arms, too, were scraped and bruised, but no breaks or particularly grievous injuries.

The pain in her shoulders made it hard for Lumine to focus, but she forced herself to maintain her analysis. This sort of objective look at her body made it easier to compartmentalize the pain. Probably not the healthiest thing to do, but it made things bearable. Her dress was torn across the middle, but all the cuts there were thin and shallow. Small victories. Her stomach felt tender, bruised. Internal damage was unlikely, but Lumine clocked it anyway. She’d keep an eye on it.

With a quiet sigh, the blonde rolled onto her back. Tears pricked at her eyes, but they didn’t fall. Pain was manageable; Lumine had had worse. She shut her eyes and focused on breathing.

“Lumine!” Temeraire snapped, and Lumine’s eyes fluttered open. She felt exhausted; how long had she been laying there? By her side, Temeraire stared at her like she was an alien (she technically was, but still). His hands fluttered uselessly around her, and his face twisted into a miserable grimace. “What the fuck is wrong with you, woman? You had absolutely no reason to fight him like that; what were you thinking?”

“Please, later,” Lumine croaked out, and Temeraire fell silent. For a moment, he only looked at her again, expression inscrutable. Finally, as Lumine closed her eyes again, he gathered her into his arms. The blonde whimpered, but beyond that, she didn’t have the energy to speak. Temeraire mumbled a soft apology and ushered her into the teapot.

Paimon, predictably, had a lot to say when the two arrived. Lumine drifted in and out of sleep as the two of them bickered. A small, selfish part of her felt warmed by the care they both showed her, but she wasn’t really ready to admit to that part yet.

When Lumine properly awoke, both Temeraire and Paimon sat at her bedside. Her wounds, as was typical, had mostly healed overnight. Her dress mended and cleaned itself, which was always nice. Unfortunately, her skin didn’t do the same; Lumine was caked in blood and sweat. Ew.

“What were you thinking, Lumine?” Paimon wailed, flying to her side and shaking her shoulder in her tiny grip. Lumine winced.

“I–ow–don’t think I was. Paimon, shoulder, ouch.”

“Oh, Paimon’s sorry. Does it still hurt?”

“Yeah, a little. I think these are gonna scar.”

“You have scars?” Temeraire interrupted, and Lumine glanced down at her shoulders. The cuts had healed to thick scabs, mostly healed but certainly aching. And itchy. She shrugged and then resolved to not shrug for a few days.

“Bigger wounds scar. I have one or two from you.”

“You do?”
“That is not the point!” Paimon snapped, tugging Lumine’s ear. “Lumi, that was dumb! And that’s coming from Paimon!”

Lumine sighed. Yes, her friend was right, but she couldn’t explain her feelings. They felt like a knot in her chest, and when she tried to explain, the knot got stuck in her throat. “I’m sorry, Paimon. I thought I’d win.”

“As much as I hate to say it, Paimon’s right. That was idiotic. Childe may be an idiot, but but he can still hit hard. What the fuck were you thinking?”

“I wasn’t, okay?” Lumine snapped, struggling to sit up in bed. Her shoulders ached, but she ignored the burn in favor of snarling at her friends. “I wasn’t thinking, I was just angry and I wanted to hit something and I’d rather not hit you when I’m angry!” Temeraire recoiled, but he leaned in with just as much ferocity as the blonde.

“That’s why I’m here! I thought you didn’t care about arguing!”

“I care when it’s real! I care when it’s about my friends. You make me so damn mad, Temeraire!”

“Why, because I point out that your ‘friends’ take advantage of you? Well sue me for caring, Lumine!”

“Nobody is taking advantage of me; I help because that’s what friends do, idiot! I like doing things for them.”

“You like running yourself ragged for people who don’t offer you anything in return? You like exhausting yourself so that other people can do less work? Got it! I’ll stop trying to fuckin’ help, then!”

“Or maybe you could just take your nose out of my business! You wanted to come with me. You wanted to be here; have you changed your mind yet?” Lumine regretted the words as soon as she yelled them. Her hands trembled, twisted in the sheets. Paimon looked at her like she’d grown a second head, and Temeraire… Temeraire looked like he used to. Like he wanted to hurt her, seriously hurt her. She didn’t want him to leave, of course she didn’t want that. But she was angry. She couldn’t make him understand friendship, and she should know that, but it didn’t stop irritating her, either.

“Do you want me to go?” Temeraire snarled, voice low and so, so angry. Lumine felt like all of her control was slipping, and along with the feeling, her left arm gave out from where it was propping her up. She fell back with a little yelp.

“No more of this, please,” Paimon whispered, sitting between them. Lumine couldn’t look at Tem, and he wouldn’t take his eyes off of her. “Lumi needs to rest, and Paimon thinks that both of you are just trying to help.”

“I need some air,” Temeraire finally said. He pulled away and ran a hand through his hair. He slipped out the door like a breeze, and Lumine could finally breathe.

“I’m sorry, Paimon,” she mumbled, voice hoarse. “I didn’t… I don’t…”

“Paimon knows, Lumi. Everything will be okay. Why are you so mad?” The little fairy took her hand, and Lumine let out a shuddering breath.

“It’s a combination of things, I think. I don’t really know how to explain it.”

“Can you try?”

“Mostly Childe,” Lumine settled. “I swear, every time I see him, I just remember how shitty he was. How stupid I was. And when I was already so irritated… I just got frustrated. I wanted to hit something, and I don’t feel bad about hitting Childe.”

“Who would?” Paimon said dryly, and Lumine laughed.

“That’s true. I never… I just don’t want to fight with Temeraire like that. Arguing is one thing–even if his arguments are terrible–but I don’t want to try to hurt him again, not like before. I want us to be different than before. And I don’t know if he gets it.” She sniffled, still not crying but something close.

“I get it.” Lumine turned towards the door so fast that she hurt her neck. She winced, then glared at Temeraire in the doorway. He only shrugged at her, and she couldn’t bear to be angry for long. She was just happy that he stayed.

“Have you been listening the whole time?”

“Yep.” He popped the ‘p,’ then came back to settle by her side. He sat with his back to her, but close enough that she could touch him if she wanted to. “I get it.”

“Eavesdropper,” Lumine said without heat, reaching to touch his hand. He let her take it.

“I’m trying to look out for you.”

“I know.”

“You can be more selfish.”

“I know.”

“You should be more selfish.”

“I’m sorry.”

“What?” Finally, Temeraire turned to face her, one brow raised.

“I should’ve never said those things to you. I’m glad you’re here, Temeraire. I’m sorry.”

He turned away again, a strange look on his face. “I’m… I’m sorry, too.”

“I know. Thank you.”

“I’ll try harder with your friends.”

“Thank you.”

The three sat in silence for a long time. Eventually, Paimon floated around to sit with her hand resting on top of Lumine and Temeraire’s intertwined set. Lumine dozed off like that, basking in the warmth of her people.

The next time she woke up, her shoulders ached but no longer hurt actively, so Lumine took it as a sign to get out of bed. Paimon and Temeraire weren’t there anymore, so the blonde finally peeled herself away to bathe and clean herself up. By the gods, she needed it. Scrubbing herself head-to-toe, Lumine was pleased to find that most of her injuries had fully healed. Her stomach no longer ached, and the wounds across her shoulders knotted into scars. They’d fade with time. Time to move on from that particular incident and get back to what she came to Liyue for in the first place: celebration.

Lumine met Paimon and Temeraire in the kitchen, and both stood when she arrived.

“Hey. What’s the plan for today?”

“The music festival is today; Paimon was about to go talk to Xiangling about it! Paimon’s glad that you’re feeling better, Lumine.”

“And smelling better,” Temeraire snarked, and the blonde rolled her eyes.

“Not my fault I was bed-bound.”

“Kind of your fault.”

“Shut it, you.” Lumine ignored Temeraire, who went back to his book, and turned to Paimon. “Have you eaten? I could use a bite; do you want to ask Xiangling if she’ll make something for us?”

“Oooh, Paimon would love that!” She squealed and kicked her little legs in the air. Lumine grinned.

“Alright then, to Wanmin Restuarant! Tem, are you coming?”

He looked at her, narrowed his eyes, and finally sighed and shut the book. “Fine, fine. I’m coming.”

The walk to Wanmin Restaurant was quiet, and Lumine found herself worrying. As far as they’d solved things the night before, she still felt awkward around Temeraire, and her attempts at small talk were met with his usual casual derision. It was like she couldn’t get her footing.

Temeraire caught her arm as they reached the restaurant, letting Paimon rush ahead to greet Xiangling. “Whatever you’re fussing about, don’t. It’s fine. We’re fine.” And with that, he let her go and went in after Paimon, leaving Lumine to huff in annoyance outside. What a presumptuous guy. Still, she walked in with her heart a few pounds lighter than it had been.

Lumine fiddled with the kamera as they milled about near the stage. The music festival was about to start, and Paimon perched on her head to get a good view. Silently, Lumine sent an apology to the people behind her; they’d never be able to see anything. Temeraire, at her side, picked idly at his nails.

“I don’t get what the big deal is about a music festival; why can’t they just go play music on the street like everyone else?” He complained, and Lumine elbowed him.

“It’s supposed to be special. A celebration of Liyuan culture.”

He huffed. “Stupid, but sure.”

“You think everything is stupid.”

“No, just you.”

“Hey!”

“Paimon can’t take this!” Lumine’s little friend tugged on her hair. “We’re here to support our friends, and you two are still arguing?”

“Yes,” they answered in unison, and they both went back to ignoring each other. Paimon sighed. Ah, blessed normalcy. Lumine couldn’t help but feel relief. Petty squabbling was just about the nicest thing she could imagine in that moment. Well, that and the dinner they’d be having after this. Anything cooked by Xiangling was bound to be delicious.

As the concert started, Lumine took pictures of her friends and listened along to all of the music. She very smugly didn’t mention Temeraire tapping his foot to Xinyan’s beat. The blonde wasn’t much for music if she was honest, but it was always nice to listen to something her friends worked hard on. That being said, she stepped away after the opening act, leaving Paimon to fly above by herself. Temeraire followed her through the crowd.

Together, they settled on the steps by the Adventurer’s Guild. The music and joy of the crowds made for decent background noise, but at least it wasn’t so loud.

“Why are we over here?” Temeraire nudged her with his shoulder, and she shrugged.

“Got loud over there. I actually am not the biggest music person.”

“I wouldn’t have guessed.” Lumine looked at Tem, trying to figure out if he was being sincere or not. He just raised an eyebrow at her, and she deflated.

“I like soft music. Quiet things. Noise like that is… a lot. For me, at least.”

“Then why go at all?”

“I want to see my friends have fun. I want to be a part of their joy. Besides, it’s not like they know. They wouldn’t ask me to go if they did, but…”

“You feel bad.”

“Yeah.”

“Hm.” Temeraire offered no further comment. Lumine appreciated it; after their conversation last night, she knew he must have thoughts. They only sat and listened to the music from a distance, watching the fireworks throughout the show.

Paimon came to find them once the show was over, and she had Hu Tao in tow. “Lumine! Temeraire! We’re going to Xinyue Kiosk to meet Mr. Zhongli and the others! Are you coming?”

The two travelers stood. The night air was cool, and Lumine found herself missing the rainforest yet again. She hoped Fontaine would be a little warmer, but who could say? “We’re coming,” she said, and they made their way over. “Is Xinyan not coming?”

“No, she has some things she wants to take care of tonight with the organizer of the festival. She’ll be making her connections tonight.” Hu Tao shrugged. “I invited her, but alas. We will have a special guest tonight, though!”

Temeraire tilted his head, oddly reminiscent of Ei in that moment. “Who is it?”

“You’ll see~!” Hu Tao trilled with a laugh, and Temeraire rolled his eyes.

“You keep weird company,” he mumbled under his breath, elbowing Lumine in the ribs.

“Yeah yeah, I know.” But she was curious, too. How many people would Hu Tao consider a special guest? Definitely not Zhongli, though Lumine would think of him as such. She hoped it wasn’t a stranger. Lumine wasn’t in the mood to have dinner with a stranger. And for the love of the gods, let it not be Childe, though she didn’t think Hu Tao was quite that unhinged.

When they arrived, they found Zhongli chatting with some of their younger friends: Xiangling, Chongyun, and Xingqiu. 

“Wow, so many people here already! Happy Lantern Rite, everyone!” Paimon announced their arrival, and Xiangling got up to give hugs all around. Even Temeraire was subject to her, though he looked awkward. Lumine giggled and he avoided her eyes.

“Happy Lantern Rite,” the blonde said with a smile, and Zhongli smiled back.

“Likewise. Everyone, please take a seat.” The former archon was kind enough to stand and pull out a chair for Lumine, which she accepted.

“Happy Lantern Rite! Are you having fun?” Xiangling asked. “I feel like I haven’t seen much of you since you got here.”

“Ah, yes! I’m having a great time, thank you Xiangling. I just got a little side tracked these last couple of days.” Lumine replied, and next to her, Temeraire tried to turn his laugh into a cough. She kicked him in the shin.

“I’m glad! I’m having a great time, too. I’ve seen Xinyan perform before, but never like this. I heard that the audience really loved it, and she’s been receiving a lot of performance invitations now!”

“That’s so lovely; I’m glad to hear it.”

“Oh, and Xinyan and Yun Jin asked us to pass season’s greetings to everybody. They hope we have a lovely gathering,” Chongyun added, and Lumine smiled at the boy.

“Oh my goodness, I almost forgot!” Xiangling stood abruptly. “Chongyun, Xingqiu, this is Temeraire, Lumine’s friend from Sumeru. Temeraire, these are two of my dearest friends, Chongyun and Xingqiu.”

Xiangling flounced over to Tem to squeeze his shoulders. Temeraire ducked his head at the attention, and Lumine gently nudged him. It was sort of endearing to see him a little embarrassed.

“It’s a pleasure,” he mumbled, more focused on the tablecloth. Xingqiu chuckled.

“It’s lovely to meet you too, Temeraire. And yes, Chongyun and I both enjoyed the concert as well. Though I will say, the things it inspired from you , Xiangling… A little less so.”

Paimon immediately perked up. “Wait, Xiangling came up with a new recipe? Let Paimon try!”

“See, someone here knows how to encourage people! Thanks, Paimon.” She reached over and ruffled Paimon’s white hair, and the little one giggled. “And I have to thank Mr. Zhongli, too. He gave me a lot of useful tips and pointers that really drove the point home.”

“My advice was only icing on the cake. Xiangling’s unique recipes and ingredients are what truly make her dishes stunning.”

“Hehe… Now I’m getting embarrassed. But I promise, Paimon, I’ll let you try it as soon as I modify the recipe with Mr. Zhongli’s tips.”

“Paimon can’t wait! But speaking of eating, Paimon feels like we’re missing someone.”

“Hu Tao disappeared,” Lumine added, having just been about to ask about it anyway. Paimon nodded.

“And where’s Guoba?”

“Oh, Guoba is helping my dad at the restaurant! Lots of people come to Liyue Harbor during Lantern Rite, so without him, I wouldn’t be able to be here with all of you.” Lumine almost laughed at the idea of a former god helping out in a kitchen, but it was honestly just the sort of thing Guoba would do. Tem shot her a look, but she just nudged him with her foot and shook her head. She’d explain later.

“I believe Hu Tao is going to collect a guest,” Zhongli said, “but she will be back as soon as she is able, I’m sure.”

“Oh, is that the special guest Hu Tao was talking about? Ooooh, how exciting!” Paimon kicked her legs in the air in that excited way of hers. Lumine tapped her foot. She still wondered about who Hu Tao’s guest would actually be, especially with Temeraire here. As long as the person wouldn’t start any fights, it couldn’t be that bad.

The door burst open as if struck. Everyone recoiled, but Hu Tao proudly paraded through the door with arms spread wide. “Ta da!” She bowed low. “We’re here!” Xiangling sprang to her feet to hug her, and Paimon followed suit. “We’re not late, right?”

Behind her, Xiao, of all people, walked in. His footsteps made no sound, even on the stone floor. He only made eye contact with Lumine, and she knew immediately that the poor man was drastically out of his depth. She stood, and though she didn’t hug him–Xiao wasn’t one for hugs–she grabbed both of his hands in hers and squeezed. He smiled at her, even if it was a small one. The blonde was only relieved it was someone that she knew and liked.

“Good thing the Conqueror of Demons and I are both swift as the wind! We made it just in time!” Hu Tao continued, gesturing animatedly.

“It’s good to see you, Xiao, but I’m surprised. I didn’t think this was your sort of thing.” Lumine tilted her head. In fact, it seemed like the exact opposite of something Xiao would enjoy. He only looked at her and shrugged a little helplessly. Poor guy.

“So the Conqueror of Demon’s is the director’s illustrious guest… It’s an honor to meet you,” Zhongli said with a smile, shaking Xiao’s hand. Lumine almost forgot that they weren’t supposed to know each other, and she only just caught Paimon with a look before her friend said something that would doubtlessly cause problems. She shut her mouth.

“Ah… likewise, Zhong– sir.” Xiao mumbled. Temeraire looked between the yaksha and Lumine, and once again, the blonde could only shake her head. Later. She’d have a hell of a story to tell later. It was almost hilarious to watch, but she was sure poor Xiao must be feeling tortured.

“Enough with the pleasantries.” Hu Tao breezed past the crowd by the door, instead settling herself in a chair. “Let’s get settled.” Everyone did as they were bid, though when Lumine sat again, Temeraire’s leg pressed to hers and didn’t move. She fought to keep a flush from her cheeks.

Hu Tao continued, “Everyone here is well known in their fields, and most of us have probably heard about or met one another in some capacity. There’s no need to be so formal. Even the Conqueror of Demons knows Lumine, no?”

“Yes, we’re good friends,” Lumine confirmed, and Xiao shot her a little smile that the blonde returned.

“Lovely! You two can sit together, then.” Xiao sat to her right, and on her left, Temeraire pressed a little closer to her under the table. She couldn’t make eye contact with him. “Now that we’re all settled, let’s bring out the food!”

Paimon actually cheered as their dishes were brought to the table. Lumine couldn’t blame her; it all looked delicious. Even Temeraire couldn’t take his eyes off of the spread. Graciously, Xiao received a plate of almond tofu.

The table quieted as everyone enjoyed their meals. Lumine mostly tuned out the small talk around her, focusing only on her food. She knew everyone at the table, after all. Mostly, people just tried to get to know each other a little better; it was all things she knew. She only paid attention when anyone asked Tem something; though he was polite, he tended to avoid their questions. Where was he from? Sumeru. How did he like it? It has its ups and downs. Where did he get his outfit? Inazuma. Had he been to Inazuma before? Many times. How did he like it? He didn’t. That one got a laugh out of Lumine, and her companion rolled his eyes at her.

“Paimon would’ve never guessed that the person Hu Tao went to fetch was Xiao,” Paimon said with a yawn only after finishing every bite of her food. Lumine hummed. Xiao stared down at his plate as though it had offended him.

“This is the first I’d heard of Lumine and Paimon knowing the Conqueror of Demons,” Chongyun added.

“We’ve spent some time together, yeah. Plus, he helped out with the whole…” Lumine waved her hand vaguely, “Osial incident.”

“Do you two know each other?” Paimon asked, pointing between Chongyun and Xiao. The younger flushed, and the adeptus kept staring down.

“Ah, no, I wouldn’t say that. I’ve just always looked up to him.” Finally, Xiao looked up, a startled expression on his face. Temeraire snorted by Lumine’s side, and she kicked him. “You might not know this, but we exorcists have worked closely with the Conqueror of Demons in the past, both in the shadows and in the open. I’m grateful to Hu Tao for giving me the honor of meeting you, Conqueror of Demons.”

Chongyun’s earnest words affected the adeptus; It was Xiao’s turn to flush. On the blonde’s other side, Temeraire shook his head with a bemused smile. “Likewise,” the immortal mumbled, and Chongyun’s smile could’ve blinded the room.

“It is indeed a great honor to meet the legendary Conqueror of Demons,” Xingqiu said with a small smile. Lumine got the impression that the boy was mocking his friend. “Chongyun has spoken so highly of you that I half believed you to be a folk hero.” It was really hard to tell when Xingqiu was being serious as opposed to mysterious.

“I met him once before, too,” Xiangling interrupted, likely to take poor Chongyun out of the hot seat. His pale complexion did little to hide his heavy blush. “He helped to judge my dishes when I took part in the Masterful Chef competition. I’m glad we had the chance to meet again; Happy Lantern Rite!”

“Thank you, and to you as well,” Xiao kept his voice low, and Lumine gently nudged him. When he looked up, she smiled at him as encouragingly as she could. He smiled back, though it was small.

“No anecdote compares to meeting you in person,” Xingqiu finally relented. “I’m Xingqiu, Chongyun’s and Xiangling’s friend, and it’s an honor to meet you.”

“Everyone’s getting all formal and polite all of a sudden… Paimon doesn’t know what to say.” In air, Paimon lounged back as though she were sprawled across a couch. Temeraire reached over to tip her on to her side, and Lumine’s little friend stuck out her tongue at him.

Across the table, Hu Tao sighed. “You’re right, Paimon. This was meant to be a nice little get together between friends. Too much formality kills the atmosphere! I didn’t want everyone to be walking on eggshells.”

“Well, what did you want?” Lumine asked, glancing around the table. In her eyes, everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves, but Hu Tao tended to want things to go a specific way. The only ones who didn’t know that were probably Temeraire and Xiao.

“A little get together between friends, sipping the finest tea, and watching the lanterns float into the sky. Bidding farewell to the past, and embracing the future with joy.” The funeral parlor director’s eyes slipped shut as she gesticulated, clearly lost in her imagination. When she finally opened her eyes again, she grinned. “Now that was a speech worthy of my dear consultant! I think I deserve a standing ovation.” Politely, the table stood to clap, though Temeraire looked askance at Lumine.

“Indeed. Exceptional acting skills, director.” Zhongli, of course, never minded playing along. For the former lord of geo, Lumine found that Zhongli went with the flow. He was sturdy and uncompromising on the things that mattered to him, but he had been alive long enough that the rest flowed over him like a stone in the river. She admired that about him.

“We’ve all worked so hard this year,” Hu Tao continued, her voice softening into fondness. “Whether it be traveling or guiding, cooking, helping with our families, exorcizing spirits, or conquering demons, everyone here has done some pretty amazing things.” Beside Lumine, Temeraire reached over under the table and gently touched her knee. He didn’t look at her, but Lumine understood all the same. Being sentimental wasn’t his thing, but Temeraire nevertheless was grateful for her. She covered his hand with her own. Their fingers locked together.

“I gotta know, Hu Tao, speaking of amazing things, how did you convince Xiao to come?” Paimon asked, waving her little hand at the adeptus. Xiao ducked his head while the funeral home director laughed.

“It’s like this: I went to Wangshu Inn, and I called for him, and I asked him to come!”

“That’s it?”

“That’s it!”

“That is not it,” Xiao protested. “She wouldn’t leave until I agreed to come, and it is true that we adepti worked closely with the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor in the past.”

“How so?” Lumine asked, more out of politeness than true interest. She could guess.

“During the Archon War, disease and death ran rampant. As the adepti fought demons, the Millelith fought by their sides, and the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor handled the purification of spirits and funeral rites.” Zhongli confirmed the traveler’s guess and she hummed.

“I imagine the hardest part was convincing him that his karma wasn’t going to kill us all, no?” She elbowed Xiao, who only stared at the table.

“It’s a valid concern,” he mumbled, and Lumine laughed a little.

“That’s why I only invited those with some degree of elemental affinity,” Hu Tao shrugged. “Besides, one little dinner isn’t going to kill any of us. Though, if anyone here does go, I’ll give you a discount.”

Xingqiu laughed at her joke along with the rest of the table, then gestured to Chongyun. “I think we’ll be okay. I’m not feeling any adverse effects, and besides, with Chongyun’s pure yang energy, I’m sure there’s some degree of blanket protection.”

Beside him, Chongyun sputtered, and Xingqiu took advantage by pushing all of his carrots onto his friend’s plate. Lumine took advantage of the commotion to gently touch Xiao’s shoulder. He only blinked at her, eyes wide.

“Are you okay? You’ve been quiet.”

“I’m fine. Not long ago, I met an old friend, and thanks to him, things have been a lot more stable than before.” He shrugged, pushing food around his plate. He hadn’t eaten much, surprising no one.

“You can give anything you don’t want to Paimon. Who’s this old friend of yours?”

Xiao handed his plate off to Paimon, which she took without protest, but before he could actually answer Lumine’s question, a familiar voice interrupted from outside.

“Seeds of story, brought by the wind…”

“And cultivated by time! Wait, did Paimon just unconsciously complete that saying?” Paimon spoke through a mouthful of almond tofu, which was definitely funny, but Lumine could only focus on the infinitely funnier fact that Venti was outside the door.

“Oh, someone’s at the door. Zhongli, could you please–” Hu Tao started, but she didn’t get to finish.

“No need!” True to form, Venti opened the door himself with a low bow and a sharp grin. “I’m coming in! Hello hello! No matter if we’ve met before or not, this moment marks a brand-new occasion! Old friends and new, happy Lantern Rite!”

Lumine loved Venti, truly. Sure, he definitely knew more than he let on, but he was also one of the first people she met in Teyvat that she felt understood her and the loneliness she felt. She also knew and loved his flair for the dramatic, though in that particular moment, it was very, very difficult to hold herself back from laughing. On one side of her, Xiao looked constipated; his face pinched and tortured. To her other side, Temeraire tensed up with one hand clutching his anemo vision. On Xiao’s other side, Zhongli’s eyes widened to the size of dinner plates. Venti caught her eye and winked, and the blonde knew instantly that at least part of this was on purpose.

“It’s the Tone-Deaf Bard!” Paimon squealed and kicked her feet in delight. Venti heaved a sigh at the nickname, but didn’t protest. A long acquaintance will dull the hurt from any of Paimon’s nicknames.

“Ooooh, you carry a lovely breeze with you, sir! I think we’ll be good friends!” Hu Tao stood and returned the anemo archon’s ridiculous bow, which seemed to please him. He grinned like a cat would, if a cat could grin. “Take a seat, help yourself! I can bring in some more cutlery!” She gestured at the empty seat between herself and, of all people, Zhongli, and Lumine had to cover her giggle with a cough. Temeraire shot her a look that she ignored.

“Why young lady, you are as fresh as a bouquet of flowers and this morning’s rising sun. Thank you for the hospitality,” Venti all but purred as he took Hu Tao’s hand to kiss it. Lumine did laugh at that, and the bard winked at her again. “Oh my lovely traveler, don’t think I’ve forgotten about you,” he cooed, and he slipped around the table to pick Lumine up in a tight hug. She barely had time to stand before Venti snagged her, and he held her close. “I missed you,” he breathed in her ear, and she hugged him back.

“Missed you too, Ven.” They kissed each other on the cheek, a tradition for the two of them, before the bard finally pulled away.

Venti settled into his seat with a broad smile, eyes flicking from person to person at the table. “I’m Venti; it’s so lovely to meet those of you I haven’t met before!” His eyes stopped on Xingqiu, and he mumbled, “Zhenyu…” under his breath. Lumine tensed.

“Hm?” Hu Tao tilted her head, and Venti copied her.

“Ah, I just recognize your friend from a light novel convention. Xingqiu, it’s lovely to see you again!” Venti said with a delicate wave of his hand. Lumine relaxed again. Gods above, she forgot how stressful Venti could be. For such a secretive person, he was terrible at keeping secrets for others.

“You as well, Venti. I remember your poetic talent and literary analysis clearly.”

Beside the bard, Zhongli cleared his throat. “Could our new guest be Mister Xingqiu’s friend?”

“Mine, too, Zhongli,” Lumine added, stifling her smile. Of course Zhongli knew Venti, though she wasn’t sure how long it’d been since they last saw each other. “I think Xiao knows Venti too, don’t you?”

“I do, yes.” Xiao stared down at his plate. The poor adeptus had no idea how to address one archon in the room, let alone two.

“We saw each other not too long ago, no?” Venti propped his head in his hand in a gesture that Lumine had also seen from Nahida. The similarities between the archons interested her greatly; she wondered if it was innate or learned.

“Yes, this… this bard was playing in Dihua Marsh not long ago, and I stopped to listen to the melody. It was quite beautiful.”

“Thank you for your patronage,” Venti cooed, and Lumine felt Xiao start to tap his foot on the floor. Poor thing must be nervous, she thought.

“How wonderful to make your acquaintance. I am Zhongli, a consultant for the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor.” The geo archon introduced himself, and Venti once again smiled that sharp little smile that screamed for trouble.

“Oh, and I’m his boss!” Hu Tao added, and Venti looked even more smug if such a thing was possible.

“No wonder! Only a boss as savvy and impressive as you could hire such a talented consultant.” Lumine had to roll her eyes at the flirting; it was something Venti did often and to anyone who would listen. Putting him in a room with Kaeya might’ve been the worst mistake Lumine had made thus far in Teyvat. She felt a pang of longing for her friends that she hadn’t seen in some time. Maybe she’d visit Mondstadt next.

“Oh, he is talented!” Hu Tao bragged. Lumine would’ve tuned out normally, but she found herself amused by this whole situation. “I swear to you, there is nothing this man doesn’t know! From the way he speaks, I sometimes suspect that he could be an adeptus in disguise! Say, Xiao, you’re an adeptus. Do you think it could be possible?”

Zhongli said nothing, Lumine covered her face to hide her smile, Venti’s eyes sparkled with mirth, and poor Xiao in the middle of it stuttered over his words.

“I… Well, I’m only really good at conquering demons.”

“Uh, really? Paimon thinks you’re super knowledgeable…”

Temeraire, to Lumine’s surprise, tugged on Paimon’s hair. “Play along,” he hissed in her ear, and Paimon’s eyes widened.

“Oh! Oh, right, yeah! Xiao’s a warrior, so it makes sense that he doesn’t know… city things?” The blonde rolled her eyes, but she reached over to touch Temeraire’s knee. He pulled away before she could, and when she tried to catch his eye, he avoided her gaze. How wonderful to have a companion that you could offend without trying or knowing. The traveler huffed to herself and turned away.

“You know, I’ve heard a few things about Mister Zhongli before,” Venti mused, head back in his hand even as he smiled. “The guests in the tavern talked about this refined and courteous man who, instead of having wine at Mondstadt’s finest tavern, ordered a cup of hot tea with the most complex name…” Lumine couldn’t tell if Venti was flirting on purpose or just behaving the way he always did. Either way, Xiao and Temeraire both stared at the floor like it was the most interesting thing they’d ever seen, though Tem did so with a scowl.

Zhongli only laughed, low and smooth. Like the wine he didn’t like to drink. “Now that you mention it, I do seem to recall hearing of a musician like yourself in Mondstadt. I’ve heard that he’s elegant and amiable, his works witty and vibrant. It’s no overstatement to regard him as the best bard in Mondstadt.” When Zhongli spoke, one could tell that he was sincere and honest. His compliments, though freely given, felt heavier when he gave them. Poor Venti, always joking Venti, blushed.

“Now you’re embarrassing me,” he whined, though Lumine could tell he was pleased.

“Why is the Tone-Deaf Bard here, anyway? Are you celebrating Lantern Rite?” Paimon asked, resting her head on Temeraire’s.

“I came for the music festival, of course! As a fellow musician, how could I possibly resist the urge to come take a listen? Getting to know other musical styles is essential!” Lumine nodded along with the others, but she suspected that he was really here for Zhongli. After all, the music festival was a last minute addition to the festivities.

“Whenever Lantern Rite comes around, Liyue Harbor becomes bustling with activity. People are all busy watching the lanterns and strolling around the shops, and it becomes rather difficult to predict another’s whereabouts.” Zhongli gave Venti a small nod, some sort of concession that Lumine didn’t understand. “The festival is in full swing and proceeding smoothly. We’re all gathered here with friends, new and old, and that makes this an occasion worth celebrating in its own right.”

“Agreed,” Lumine said, and she raised her glass. Water, since no one in Teyvat wanted to serve her alcohol. “It’s great to see everyone here again. Thank you for having us, Hu Tao.”

“I propose we raise a glass.” Zhongli followed the blonde’s lead, raising his tea cup. “To reunions, and the joy they bring in their wake.” A toast directed, however subtly, at Venti, who blushed properly. Everyone toasted.

“I’m a little self-conscious now,” the bard of the hour mumbled. “I didn’t cause you all too much trouble by barging in like I did, did I? Everyone, thank you for treating me, uninvited as I was.”

“You’re welcome! As the host of this gathering, I hope everyone enjoys the food and drinks.” Hu Tao smiled at Lumine and Venti in turn, then settled back in her seat.

Beside Lumine, Xiao started fidgeting. He kept glancing at her and then to the door, though Lumine had no idea if it was meant to be a hint or his subconscious screaming for an out.

Nevertheless, she took it. “Xiao, Tem, I ate too much and could go for a walk. Would you two like to join me?”

Xiao stood and went to the door without bothering to respond. Poor flighty man. Temeraire looked at her, brows creased, but he shrugged.

“Of course. After you.” Uncharacteristically polite, but Lumine wasn’t about to look a gift horse in the mouth.

“Have you all finished eating? Enjoy your walk, you three!” Hu Tao waved them all off.

“Oh… Does Paimon have to go?”

“Are you still hungry?” Lumine asked, amused with her friend’s reluctance to leave the food. It was good food! But Lumine had duties to attend to with her socially awkward companions.

“Yes…”

“Then stay. Eat. I won’t be long.” Lumine kissed Paimon’s forehead, and her companion settled a little.

“Don’t forget to come back.”

“I would never.”

Stepping into the cold air was, in fact, terribly refreshing. Lumine stretched and met Xiao at the railing, with Temeraire at her heels. She stood between them, both looking to her.

“Are you alright?” Xiao asked, concern knotting his features. Lumine couldn’t help but laugh.

“I should be asking you that. You were practically begging me to help you escape.”

“Oh, I… Hm.” Xiao averted his gaze, and the three lapsed into a short silence.

“Unfamiliar with gatherings like these?” The traveler prompted, and Xiao sighed and shook his head.

“No, not at all. In fact, there were many such nights where the adepti gathered together. I was dragged along many times. The adepti all have their specialties, making most of them proud and arrogant. Everything they say is straight from the heart. It never gets too complicated. But this time…” The lone adepti looked back towards the door and winced. Lumine put her hands on her hips and resolved to punch Venti the next time she could get away with it.

“It’s Venti’s fault.” Frantically, Xiao looked between her and Temeraire, who shrugged. “He already knows; you have nothing to worry about there.”

“Well, in that case… I mean, no. I didn’t mean to blame him, I just… You know his identity. Both of you. So I’ll get to the point.” Xiao paused and took a deep, heavy breath. “The anemo archon is a free spirit, and his temperament is as carefree as the music he plays on the flute. It’s easy for a god like him to live among humans. And that’s something I might never be able to do.”

Lumine didn’t know how to help Xiao, which bothered her. She wanted to tell him that he should just be himself, but that would mean nothing coming from her. She’d blended right in to Teyvat.

“Why are you trying to be anything like him?” Temeraire interrupted her thoughts, one hand on a cocked hip. He looked… Not bored, exactly. Maybe frustrated. Lumine wanted to get better at reading him. “Venti, or Barbatos, or whatever you want to call him, is the archon of the wind, which is about as free moving and open as it gets. You’re not like that. You’re bound to duty and combat. I doubt you would feel at ease if you spent all your time around humans. Besides, they’re not that great. Vibrant, yes, but selfish.” He shot Lumine a look, and she ignored it. “A little time with a few people is fine, but you should be happy as you are. Longing for something you will never have is a worthless endeavor.”

Xiao met Temeraire’s eye for a long moment, saying nothing. Tem only raised an eyebrow at him, a challenge to him. Finally, surprisingly, the adeptus backed down.

“You’re probably right. Temeraire, right?”

“Yes.”

“Thank you for the advice.”

“You’re welcome.”

Pleased, Lumine stayed silent and let the two observe each other. So Temeraire had learned something from her after all!

Xiao leaned gently on Lumine for a moment. “Whenever I think of the ordinary conversations I’ve had with you, it feels… strangely novel.”

“Good strange, I hope,” she said, bumping his shoulder with hers.

“Yes.” The adeptus moved away. He wasn’t one for prolonged contact, so she didn’t begrudge him. On her other side, Temeraire moved to lean against her. Lumine leaned back against him. “The parlor director went out of her way to invite me, so it was very difficult to refuse. I had made my mental preparations before agreeing to come. She had already told me that the guests today would be acquainted with elemental power, and I knew that you would be here. But I didn’t expect the other guests to be…” He trailed off, gesturing again to Xinyue Kiosk.

“I don’t think anyone expected that, to be honest,” Lumine said, but she did nod along. She could take change in stride, but she had her limits, and Venti and Zhongli in the same room in which only a few people knew their identities… well, that was the limit.

“I hadn’t expected to meet the anemo archon tonight, no,” Temeraire snarked, dry and without humor, but Lumine and Xiao both chuckled anyway. Quietly, he continued, “I can understand why you needed to prepare yourself. It’s… something.”

“Thank you.”

Getting to see Temeraire be open in front of someone who wasn’t her made Lumine’s little heart race. She couldn’t wait to tease him about it later. But for now, she reached for his hand and squeezed once.

“There you all are!” Xiangling poked her head out the door. “I hope I’m not interrupting.”

Temeraire pulled away from Lumine, and the blonde stifled her disappointment. “You’re not,” Xiao answered for them, “What is it?”

“Hu Tao saw that everyone was done eating and asked the staff to bring out the desserts. Paimon got so anxious that you weren’t back yet that she scarfed down her dessert without the usual slurping and munching.” Xiangling giggled, and Lumine rolled her eyes with a smile. Gods, she loved that little creature.

“Not so anxious that she couldn’t eat dessert. She’ll live.”

Xiangling blushed. “To be honest, I was kind of worried, too.” She turned her attention to Xiao, though she wouldn’t make direct eye contact. “You looked a little restless just now, and I thought you might’ve disliked the food and wanted to go back to Wangshu Inn instead…”

“You’re worrying too much,” Xiao said, a puzzled expression on his face. Lumine hid her smile behind her hand. This poor man was going to have so many friends that he wouldn’t know what to do with all the care he got. “Anyway, let’s head back inside.”

“Oh, please wait! I actually, um.” Xiangling stopped, once again looking anywhere but at Xiao. He stopped in place, perfectly dutiful. “Please take these; I brought them for you.” The chef held out a box of what looked to be almond tofu. “I’ve been talking and working with Smiley since the master chef competition. I prepared a few extras, so I’d like you to take them with you. Maybe if you need a snack while you work?”

Xiao gawked in silence a moment, and Lumine looked to Temeraire, who was already looking at her with yet another unfamiliar expression on his face. She stuck out her tongue at him, and he rolled his eyes with a small smile that he tried to hide from her.

“There was no need for you–”

“Xiao.” Lumine elbowed him, and he stopped.

“Thank you. I will take them. Thank you again.” Sufficiently cowed, the adeptus accepted the gift. Xiangling’s answering smile lit up the evening.

“You’re welcome! Now come on; we shouldn’t leave Paimon waiting too much longer!”

Lumine caught Temeraire’s arm when he moved to follow Xiangling and Xiao. “We’ll catch up,” she said, and when they were gone, she sighed.

“What’s with you?” Temeraire asked, arms crossed over his chest.

“I just wanted a moment to breathe.” She reached for him but stopped halfway. Being so blatant about it felt wrong, somehow. Too much, almost. Like their fragile peace would break if it were observed.

Temeraire didn’t take her hand; rather, he moved to stand next to her and let her lean against him. Together, they spent a few silent seconds observing the hustle and bustle of Liyue Harbor.

“Let’s go,” he murmured into her hair. “Your friends are waiting.”

“You’re my friend, too,” she replied, but she didn’t move. Quietly, gently, his arm slipped around her waist and held tight. Lumine’s heart beat harder in her chest, so hard she thought it might burst. His grip negated the chill in the air entirely.

“Am I?” He asked, and the blonde blinked back to herself. What was he talking about again? Oh, right. Friendship. Gods, her head felt like it was full of cotton. As for Temeraire, his expression was blank, though Lumine suspected a defense mechanism as opposed to actual neutrality.

“Yes, of course you’re my friend.”

“Don’t die on me.”

Where did that come from? “I don’t plan on it?”

“Good.” He squeezed her one last time before he released her. Temeraire shoved his hands in his pockets and headed for the door without another word.

As they walked in, Paimon squealed, “You’re finally done whispering secrets to each other? So much for promising Paimon you’d be back soon!”

“We were pretty quick. You’re only mad because you have no sense of time,” Lumine teased, and her white-haired friend pouted.

“How could you say that to Paimon?”

“She’s right,” Temeraire added, bumping her with his shoulder. Paimon stuck out her tongue at him.

“It’s because you’re distracting, Temtem! As punishment, Paimon will eat both of your desserts!”

“Oh no, however shall I survive?” Temeraire sneered back, and Lumine giggled.

“It’s a fair punishment. I accede my dessert to Paimon, the fair queen of Teyvat.”

“As you should! Paimon deserves it.”

“Easy, Paimon,” Hu Tao interrupted. “We’re all just chatting here; there’s no serious business to take care of. Outside or inside, it’s all the same.”

“See, Paimon? Be more like Hu Tao,” Lumine said, and her friend turned away with crossed arms and a pout. There was no one more fun to tease than Paimon, not even Temeraire. Not even Aether. Lumine’s heart twisted at the thought and she pushed it aside.

“Paimon’s too busy eating to talk to the likes of you.” And her friend made good on her words, shoving dessert in her mouth.

“But even though we’re all well acquainted by now,” Hu Tao continued as though Paimon and Lumine hadn’t spoken, “I think this festive gathering deserves something ceremonious.”

“Oh? Is this a local custom?” Venti asked, a glass of wine in his hand. Lumine couldn’t figure out where he’d gotten it from, unless he brought it himself. She itched to ask for a glass but refrained.

“Nope!” Venti shot a bemused look between Lumine and Zhongli, both of whom shrugged. Hu Tao had her own mind. “This is something I made up so that good luck will be on our side, that’s all!” She paused to glance around the room. “Spontaneity is the best choice to make here, so we can use this incense burner!” Sure enough, an incense burner sat on a side table in the room. Temeraire caught Lumine’s eye next, and she shrugged. The best way to manage Hu Tao was always to go with the flow.

“It’s almost burnt out, now. I’ll leave refilling and lighting the incense to the most distinguished guest amongst us all. Lighting the incense will signify continuous growth and prosperity in all our endeavors for the new year!” The funeral director made a grand, sweeping gesture with the incense burner cradled in her hands. Silly? Yes, but Lumine saw no reason not to go along with the game.

“How so?” Xiao asked, and Lumine couldn’t help but laugh. The adeptus blushed, and she frantically waved her hands.

“No, no! I’m not laughing at you. It’s just a symbol, Xiao, it’s not meant to be taken literally.”

“Oh. I guess that makes sense.”

“Perfect symbolism, of course,” Venti applauded, and Hu Tao took a bow. “Now, speaking of the most distinguished guest here today… I’m sure we can all agree that it’s one Mister Zhongli. If knowledge were a form of power, one could even call him a wielder of unlimited strength.” Venti purred his words in the way that only a true flirt can pull off, and Lumine couldn’t help but roll her eyes. So he’d come specifically to see him, then. It didn’t surprise her, but she could see Temeraire’s awkward confusion plain on his face. Xiao, too, averted his gaze from the archons’ smoldering eye contact. The blonde could only shake her head.

“What~? Chatting with him has been a real eye-opener, even for a bard who’s traveled all across the world.” Venti winked at her, and Lumine stuck out her tongue.

“Even though I agree that Zhongli is the most distinguished guest here, I also happen to know that you just think he’s hot, Ven.” Lumine reveled in Venti’s mortified expression and Zhongli’s answering blush. Paimon and Xiangling laughed, while Temeraire’s and Xiao’s faces held twin expressions of horror.

“Archons, Lumine,” Temeraire grumbled under his breath, and the blonde just grinned in response.

“While I am flattered, when it comes to having a way with words, the notable bard is certainly a cut above the rest,” Zhongli spoke like a diplomat despite the honey flush on his cheeks. The look suited him. “I just happen to have a good memory. It is such an unexceptional skill, yet you made it sound like an unparalleled talent. I am truly impressed.”

“You’re being far too humble,” Lumine said with a shrug. “Your mind is second only to one other I’ve met, Zhongli.” The blonde really missed Nahida. She hoped the archon of wisdom could hear her from so far away, and sent a prayer for her wellbeing.

“Be that as it may, we all get to nominate someone. And I believe that it’s only fair that we let the parlor director light the incense.”

“That won’t do! Don’t flatter me just because I’m your boss!” Hu Tao, of course, likely already had someone in mind, but she wouldn’t say so outright. “We are looking for the most distinguished guest here. As the host, I shouldn’t be involved in this discussion at all.” She crossed her arms with a satisfied nod. “Now that we’ve spent the last few hours enjoying these delicacies, how about we let our one and only chef here do the honors?” The director took Xiangling by the shoulders to steer her towards the incense, but poor Xiangling held her ground.

“Um, is this really the way this works? I didn’t even cook any of these dishes…”

“It’s not a big deal!” Hu Tao interrupted, gently pushing her forward still. “Just look at you! Xiangling, the disciple of an adeptus, the Stove God’s best friend, the winner of the Masterful Chef competition, the only heir of the famous Wanmin Restaurant, and a good friend of mine. There’s no better choice!” Hu Tao waved her arms wildly through her speech, as she usually did. Xiangling and Paimon both dodged a limb or two.

“Paimon feels like we’re back at square one again,” she grumbled even as the others politely clapped for the ostentatious funeral director.

Xiangling waved her arms in protest, though she was careful not to hit anyone. “Please, stop! You’re embarrassing me… If we’re looking for a distinguished guest, surely the second son of the Feiyun Commerce Guild counts?” The chef gestured at Xingqiu, who flinched at the sudden attention. “It’s one of the largest commerce guilds in Liyue Harbor!”

“Huh? Xiangling, don’t involve me in all of this!”

“Maybe if Xingqiu lights the incense, we’ll make lots of mora in the new year!” Paimon cheered, kicking her feet. Lumine flicked her forehead.

“That can’t be how this works,” Xingqiu protested. “Making a fortune is a fine wish, but it’s of lesser importance than good health and happiness, no?” Paimon settled with an embarrassed huff, then Xingqiu continued, “Which means that we should choose Chongyun, the skilled exorcist who keeps everyone’s home safe from evil spirits.”

Gods, it was like a game of hot potato. Lumine sat back and watched her friends try to make each other seem amazing with a smile on her face. Temeraire and Xiao at her sides seemed awkward, but she figured that they could manage that themselves. The blonde was soaking in the affection.

“Now you’re nominating me? I absolutely can’t be the most distinguished guest when we have the Conqueror of Demons right here!” Chongyun pointed at Xiao, who looked thoroughly uncomfortable with the attention. Lumine only smiled at him. The man needed attention for once in his life.

Surprisingly, he merely crossed his arms and shook his head. “I refuse. I am most certainly not the most distinguished guest here.” The traveler supposed that he’d say Zhongli, since she knew how much respect the adeptus had for his former archon, but she wondered how he’d justify it when no one else knew. Or maybe he’d say Venti? But again, very little reason for him to say so.

Then he said, “You should all be able to make the right judgment based on your observations. One person here is very well acquainted with everyone else, including our surprise guest.” And Lumine suddenly understood that he meant to say her, and she froze. Everyone’s eyes turned on her, and the blonde fiddled with the ends of her hair. Her face felt warm. Temeraire, behind her, snickered.

“Oh, that’s right! Even though you’re always mocking Paimon, you’re still pretty popular with other people, Lumi!” Paimon giggled at her expression and Lumine stared at her boots.

“I’m not the only well-connected person here, though,” She argued with the wall of her amused friends. While it was nice to be recognized, it didn’t feel fair to take responsibility for such a thing. Besides, she was only a fighter. Lumine didn’t really know how to take the attention. She suddenly felt bad for relishing in Xiao’s awkwardness.

“Huh? Who else?” Paimon asked with a tug on the traveler’s hair, and Lumine smiled. This, she could do. She’d never feel bad for teasing Paimon.

“Look in a mirror, goof.”

“Huh? Huh? Does that mean Paimon’s the most distinguished guest? Well that was unexpected!” Paimon giggled and threw her arms around Lumine, who could only laugh along. She caught Xiao’s eye and shrugged, but he only smiled back at her.

Venti, too, smiled. “I agree. Paimon’s just the one we need.” He approached Lumine to wrap an arm around her. “Without a friend constantly by your side, a long journey would become dreadfully lonesome, right Lumine?”

“Of course.”

“Once you have someone there to brighten up the atmosphere, everything along the way will become lively and vibrant, too.”

“Lumine has, of course, traveled many nations and left behind a great deal of fascinating stories. But without Paimon, they would’ve become quite monotonous, no?” Zhongli asked, and Lumine nodded.

“You guys, Paimon’s not used to being praised like that…”

“You deserve it,” Lumine said, squeezing her friend tight. “You’re the best travel companion I could imagine.”

“Okay, Paimon’s not mad anymore!” She cheered and threw up her hands, and the traveler grinned.

“Friends tease each other all the time, Paimon. Don’t worry.” Xingqiu patted her shoulder.

“Paimon is just as important to Lumine as Guoba is to me!” Xiangling added. Tears gathered in Paimon’s eyes, and her friend rubbed them away with a watery laugh.

“Looks like we’ve come to an agreement. Any objections before we proceed?” Hu Tao glanced around the room, but no one argued. “Okay! Paimon it is. And now, the world’s most excellent traveler’s greatest companion, guide, and friend will be refilling and lighting the incense for us!”

Paimon did so happily, if a little clumsily. For the rest of the night, everyone seemed content to snack and chat, though Lumine sat to the side for most of it. She contented herself with leaning against Temeraire and making idle conversation with Venti and Xiao, though after a while, she did start to doze off.

Hu Tao finally called the evening, ushering everyone outside. Lumine yawned and held the hand of an equally sleepy Paimon on their way out.

“Thank you very much for the treat, Hu Tao,” Lumine said as she passed, and the director smiled.

“You don’t have to go all polite on me! Just remember to come when I invite you next time.” With that, Hu Tao hugged them both. “It’s dark out, so I’m going to accompany our younger friends home and leave Zhongli with the rest of our guests.” Lumine nodded and waved as Hu Tao left with Xiangling, Chongyun, and Xingqiu.

“It was very lovely getting to know you all,” Venti called, and Hu Tao waved back. “Anyway, Mister Zhongli, if you wouldn’t mind walking me back to my inn?” Fortunately, Lumine was too tired to roll her eyes. Instead, she waved away Zhongli’s concerned glances.

“Don’t worry about us. We’ll stay in the teapot tonight.”

“If that’s alright. Shall we, Venti?” Zhongli took the bard’s arm in his and disappeared into the night, Venti’s loud laughter echoing even after they were out of view.

“Paimon always feels a little empty inside after a lively celebration ends…” She squeezed Lumine’s hand. “But at least you’ll always be by Paimon’s side, Lumine.” Lumine couldn’t help but smile. “And now Paimon has Temeraire, too. It’s sort of like having a nice party all the time.” Paimon yawned, trailing off her sentence. Temeraire caught Lumine’s eye and shook his head a little, but a little smile stuck on his face. Tired as she was, Lumine beamed.

And then she remembered that Xiao was still there, and Lumine flushed. How could she forget her friend? Sure, she got a little distracted by Temeraire sometimes, but not like that…

“Xiao, what are you going to do for the rest of the night?”

“I’ve stayed in the city too long. It’s beautiful, of course,” he said, a little hasty, “but it’s time for me to leave.” He paused to give the three of them a hesitant smile, and Lumine didn’t hesitate to offer one in return. Xiao was a great friend, someone she cared for deeply. A reliable ally and partner. “The events of today happened so abruptly. I appreciate your kindness. And yours, too, Temeraire. I’m… glad to have met you.” Temeraire shrugged and looked at the ground, and Lumine shook her head. All she could possibly feel was fondness; he deserved to be complimented.

“The feeling is mutual,” she told Xiao, gently taking his hand to squeeze it.

Temeraire mumbled, “Likewise,” and Xiao smiled.

“I will see you again soon,” he said, and the adeptus disappeared.

There was a brief silence between the three of them, though it wasn’t awkward. Lumine just felt… warm. Full of food and laughter and love and joy. She pushed away the feeling of wrongness, the ‘it’s not okay to be happy without Aether’ feeling. Instead, she stretched and caught both Paimon’s and Temeraire’s hands. “Teapot?”

“Teapot,” Paimon and Tem agreed in unison, and Lumine ushered everyone in.

They crawled into one bed together by unanimous, unspoken vote. Paimon fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow, but Lumine found herself unable to sleep. Temeraire, beside her, didn’t say anything, but she knew he wasn’t asleep, either.

“Thank you for spending time with my friends. I appreciate it.”

“It wasn’t so bad,” he mumbled, and he turned on his side to face Lumine. His dark hair hung over his eyes like a silk curtain. “They’re something.”

“Still. I’m glad you came.” She turned to face him, too. They were close, closer than she knew what to do with. Their foreheads touched, arms tangled between them. Lumine froze. Her heart pounded in her chest like it did when she fought, but this was no fight. This was utter peace, warmth, and joy, yet her heart ached. The feeling bubbled under her chest, and she thought that she could sink into this and die happily.

“Lumine,” Temeraire murmured, voice soft. The traveler blinked, and she caught his eye. He looked so serious that she might’ve laughed if it hadn’t been so intimate. She felt closer to Temeraire than she’d ever felt for anyone since Aether. But why? The whole thing felt impossible. She went from his enemy to his companion and friend in what felt like the blink of an eye, but Lumine knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that she could trust him. That she would care for him, and he would care for her in return.

“I’m overwhelmed,” she said, because it was the truth. Not telling him felt like lying, and she didn’t want to lie to him.

“Me too,” Tem said back, and she felt the tension ease into a manageable comfort. No more pounding heartbeat drum in her ears. Still, neither of them moved.

“I feel… happy. For you, because of the kindness you’re capable of, but also for me, because I get to watch you. Does that make sense?” Lumine wanted him to get it. She wanted him to understand how she felt, because if Temeraire understood, maybe she would, too.

The look on his face said that he didn’t get it. His brow furrowed, and his mouth twisted into a little frown. “I think you’re giving me too much credit.”

“Maybe,” she allowed. But she wanted to. It was hard for her to describe how much faith she had and needed to have in him. Redemption was necessary. For someone that so effortlessly gave her the benefit of the doubt, she needed to do the same. She wouldn’t judge him, since he didn’t judge her. Or maybe they both just judged each other in a way that made them better instead of worse. Either way, Lumine didn’t mind.

“Thank you,” Temeraire said, and he took her hands in his. He wouldn’t meet her gaze, but he said, “I’m still so damn angry about everything. About people. I don’t trust them.” Them , as if Lumine wasn’t part of that. She smiled.

“I wouldn’t ask you to, not yet.”

“But you get it.”

“I do, yeah.” She thought of Childe, but then Lumine also thought of the Raiden Shogun, Zhongli, Jean, Diluc, Kaeya, Alhaitham, and so many more others. There are times when people were simply hard to trust. “People make choices, and you don’t always believe they’ll make the right ones. Sometimes people make choices that are right for them, but wrong for you, and it feels like a betrayal. It’s… scary. I feel like I can lose someone at any time.”

“Then why should I even bother?”

“Because you bothered with me. Because the world is shittier when you’re alone. We went over this.” Lumine squeezed his hands, and he met her eyes again but didn’t speak. “It will happen someday. You’ll find people that you trust.”

Looking into her eyes, Temeraire said, “The only one I need to trust is you,” and Lumine’s heart bloomed. She felt shy all of a sudden, like Temeraire cracked open her soul and stared into it, but she didn’t pull away. The blonde only closed her eyes. They drifted off to sleep sharing breaths in the darkness, warm and satisfied and at home with one another.