Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

As Razor was going on his daily hunt, he passed by a hill where Bennett was sitting atop of. At the sight of his friend, he didn’t hesitate to walk up to him and sit next to him. It really was a good view from there. It was able to show the city that was surrounded by water. It was calming. The silence, the nature, being next to his friend.

When He was with Bennett, they didn’t really talk much. Bennett knew that Razor didn’t understand him, so they stuck to silence and facial expressions most of the time.

There was some rustling nearby and Razor's eyes tracked the sound to see three adventurers walk by on the path. They were talking about something that brought smiles to their faces. Razor couldn’t understand much of it, but he heard his name.

The group started laughing, and Razor could hear Bennett shift next to him.

“Wait here, I’ll be back before you know it.” He smiled and gave Razor a thumbs up before walking in the direction of the group.

Bennett spoke to them first, and obvious confusion spread across the adventurers faces. What Bennet said, Razor couldn’t understand, but he heard his name.

One of the adventurers stepped forward and responded to Bennett. It didn’t sound nice and it wasn’t because Bennett's face shifted into a frustrated one Razor hadn’t seen before.

They kept exchanging words, progressively getting louder and more irritated. Razor kept hearing his name getting said which only brought him more confusion.

Bennett yelled something at the adventurers, and the one that had stepped forward hit him.

Razor quickly got up from his spot, and ran over to Bennett’s side. Electricity crackled as he looked at the Adventurer.

“Don’t hurt friend.” He glared at the three. “I protect Lupical.”

One of the adventurers scoffed and said something to the other two, and they walked away.

“Bennett okay?” Razor asked as Bennett got up.

“Yes. Bennett is okay.” He replied. “I couldn’t just sit there and listen as they hurt you.”

“I’m not hurt.” Razor responded. He didn’t understand how he could be hurt when he wasn’t hit.
“I’m glad.” He said something after that, then left, heading in the direction of Mondstadt.

 

The next day, Razor gathered the courage to walk into Mondstadt. He’d never done this before because he liked staying away from all the staring. He had to go in today though. It was the quickest way to talk to his master.

He walked up to the entrance, and looked around. He had no clue where he was going. He stood there for a while, then a guard walked up to him.

“Hello, are you looking for something?” The man with metal covering his body asked.

“I looking for Lisa.” Razor said, doing his best to talk the way his master taught him to.

The man exchanged a look with a different man behind him, and when he nodded, he said, “Follow me.”

The city was way bigger than Razor had expected. He had seen it from afar, but being in it was completely different. There were so many humans. So many and they all stared at Razor as he walked by. He kept his eyes at the heels of the man leading him to his master.

When the man stopped, Razor looked up to see a big building with a red banner hanging on each side of the building.

“This is the Knights Of Favonius’s headquarters. We are almost there.” The man continued walking and Razor followed.

He didn’t know what a ‘knight’, ‘favonius’, or ‘headquarters’ was but it didn’t stop him from going in.

They walked into a room filled with many things. This must be what his master called a library.

“Oh, Lawrence. To what do I owe the pleasure of seeing you?” Once again, a lot of words Razor didn’t understand.

“I’ve brought a child who was looking for you.” Lisa’s eyes wandered away from the man and found Razor’s.

“Razor? What are you doing here?” She got up from her seat and walked over to him.

“I need learn from you.” Razor looked up at her, and she smiled back.

“Thank you for bringing him here Lawrence. Razor, can you say thank you to Lawrence?”

“Thank you Lawrence.” He looked up at the man who gave him a small smile.

“You’re welcome. I’ll be off now.” And with that he walked out of the library.

“So Razor, you want to learn from me?” Lisa’s attention once again returned to the boy as he nodded.

“I need learn to speak.” He said.

Almost everything Razor learnt about human language came from Lisa. She had taught him a lot over the past 3 years, but he still wasn’t able to talk the same way others were. He was told he was 11 years old. Bennett was 12 years old, but they talked so differently. He needed to get better.

“I don’t know what others know.” He said as he looked down at the ground.

Something in Lisa grew heavy. For her, knowledge came easily. That was how she was able to get through the akademiya so quickly. A big part of that was because she had been learning everything she coils since she was little. How well someone learns to speak is somewhat based on how old they are when they start to speak.

When Razor learnt his first human word, he was 6 years old. That is way later than normal. It is harder to learn to speak when not speaking before then. That is partially why Razor was so behind in speaking.

“I can’t teach you so much so quickly.” Lisa was being honest. She was never the best teacher because she picked up on things quickly. She could never have a full understanding of struggling while learning.

“Why?” He asked.

“I’m not good at teaching.” She simply responded. This response clearly frustrated the boy.

“You are master. You are good at teaching me.” He was right about that. She had taught him almost everything so far so it was easy for him to believe that she was good at it.

“I’m not the best though. If you want to learn quickly, I can not help.” Razor frowned more.

“Who can teach me?” His voice was deflated. Hearing it made Lisa’s heart waver.

She thought for a bit before responding. She ran through names in her head.
Albedo? No, he also has the struggle I have. Jean would be good, but she would overwork herself. Keaya will corrupt Razor.

She went name by name until there weren’t any people left. She fiddled with her hair, repositioning the flower when something clicked in her mind.

“I know someone who can teach you.” She finally said.

Razor looked up from the ground and met her eyes.

“It will be hard.”

“I am strong. I can do hard things.” He responded.

“You will have to be away from here.” She had a serious look on her face.

“Away?” He asked.

“Away. Not home. Far from home.” She rephrased.

“I don’t want to be away.” He looked back down at the ground.

“I can’t teach you as much as my friend away can.” She knew it was harsh to tell him she couldn’t help without trying, but it was true. She was ill suited for this.

“Your friend away?” He asked.

“Yes. My good friend can teach you, but he is away.” She nodded. It seemed like he was considering it. For a 11 year old kid, he was determined. It made her wonder what made him so set on learning more.

“I will go.” He said, his resolve strong.

“Are you sure?” She asked. This was a big thing. He gave her a confused look, so she rephrased it.

“Away you can’t see friends and Lupical. Away is not far and you can’t visit.” She was trying to scare him. He needed to know what would happen.

“I need away. I need to protect friend from words.”

“Okay. I will take you to go away tomorrow.” She felt bad sending a child away from all he’s ever known, but she now understood why he wanted to. He needed to protect someone from what he didn’t know, so he wanted to learn so he could. He was a determined kid.

“Thank you master.” He looked up at her again and smiled.

She returned the smile, then spoke again, “We have to get ready to go away.”

“Get ready?” He asked.

“Away is different from here. You will live with human people.” She tried to keep it as simple as she could.

“How do I get ready?” He asked.

“Follow me.” She led him out of the headquarters, and to Marjorie’s shop. He needed more clothes if he was going to live among humans. He also needed a bag to carry his things. He didn’t have any personal belongings because he lived in the woods, but he would need it for the extra clothing she was going to get him, and the food they would take for the trip there.

They got two new pairs of clothing, and a leather backpack with a wolf design engraved onto it. After that, they went to Lisa’s house.

“This will be different from your normal cleaning. Do the same thing, but use this.” Lisa handed Razor a bar of soap then explained how to use it.

He got cleaned up and changed, then Lisa had him sit down so she could fix up his hair that had matts in some places.

“Razor.”

“Yes master?”

“Do you want to know what away is like?” She asked.

“Yes.”

The environment was calm and Lisa let a moment of silence pass before she started to speak.

“Away is a place called Sumeru. You know the seven elements right?” She asked.

“Electro, fire, earth, plants, air, cold, and water.” He was correct, though the proper terms would need work.

“Yes. We live in the land of the air, The land of anemo. In Sumeru, it is the land of the plants.” She paused speaking to let it sink in before starting again. “The seven element archons rule each land. The air archon calls this place land of freedom. In Sumeru, the plant archon calls it land of wisdom.”

“What does wisdom mean?” He asked her as he put his shoulders up to his head when she accidentally pulled too hard on a knot in his hair.

“It is almost like knowledge. Knowledge is what you learn. Wisdom is how to use knowledge.” She looked down at Razor who still looked a bit confused, but not as much. She decided that was good enough.

She let him think about what she had said for a bit. She kept brushing his hair and was glad that it was almost all detangled.

“I lived in Sumeru long ago.” She decided to change to stories to counter the confusion. “I was there to learn too. I went to a big school and learnt about the stars.” I learnt so much, and when I was done I came back here. I came back home.”

“I want to be back one day.” Lisa smiled. She was glad that he didn’t want to leave Mondstadt forever. She was glad that there was some fear in leaving. It is normal to feel that. She felt it too when she left.

“Oh I finished brushing your hair.” She said then grabbed a bit and held it out so Razor could feel it. Do you want to get a haircut?” She asked.

“Haircut? Master, what is haircut?” He asked.

“It makes hair shorter or longer.” She grabbed her hair and pulled it up and said, “Shorter,” then let it go “longer.”

“I like long hair.” He responded.

“Can I braid it then?” She held a braid she had in her hair so he could understand what it was.

“I like braid.”

Lisa got set to braiding his hair. She added one medium sized braid on his right side. It reached a bit past mid torso, and she used a tie that was the same as the one she used in her hair, but had a smaller version of the flower instead.

“There, we match.” She said when she finished adding the tie. “She pointed to the flower in her hair, then to the flower in his. “Same.”

Razor eyes lit up and he smiled in response.

“Time to sleep now Razor.” She told him.

It was going to be a long day tomorrow. She laid a blanket on the ground and let Razor sleep there. He was going to have to get used to sleeping in a bed, but for now a semi padded place would help him adjust better.

Tomorrow they would go to Razor’s pack and say goodbye, and also go to any friends he has and say goodbye to them too. After that they would start their journey to Sumeru.

Being far from where Razor grew up would be hard no matter how determined he was. Even for Lisa when she lived at the akademia it wasn’t easy to be away from all those she cared for in Mondstadt. Part of her felt bad sending the boy away, and the other part wanted to respect his wishes.

Before Lisa went to sleep, she wrote a quick letter to her friend and sent it on its way.

Chapter Text

“Hey Razor, it's time to wake up.” A soothing voice spoke. “Razor, get up.” This time the voice was more firm and Razor opened his eyes.

It was still quite dark out, but there was starting to be light peeking up from behind the horizon. Next to him was Lisa and when he saw her, he was quickly reminded of his plan to go to Sumeru.

So much dread, determination, and anxiety built up in his body as he sat up. This was going to be different. This was going to be hard. This was going to be scary. Those three things marched in circles in his mind warning him to give up now.

“I have to protect friend.” Razor said, voice still rough from awakening. The need to protect remained superior to the three worries.

“Yes Razor, you have to protect your friend.” Lisa looked at him and gave a gentle smile. “It’s time for you to say goodbye to your Lupical and friends.”

Dread filled him. He had known that he would have to leave his Lupical, but it was still hard to accept. He silently got up and grabbed his bag that he and Lisa packed the day before.

“Do you want to say goodbye to friends or Lupical first?” Lisa asked Razor. She knew that saying goodbye to the humans would be easier because they were closer, but she wanted Razor to choose. It was something hard to do and it would likely be a while before Razor returned to Mondstadt.

“Friends. I will say goodbye to Bennett and Klee.” His voice remained steady, but Lisa could tell that there was some internal turmoil.

“Ok, let’s go find them.” She led him out of her house and down over to where Albedo lived. He was Klee’s caretaker for the time being, so there was a good chance that she would be there. Also, Albedo was normally up at this point in time. She knew that Bennett wouldn’t be.

The streets of Mondstadt were empty and only the sound of their shoes against stone could be heard. It was different from the normal environment, but Lisa enjoyed Mondstadt more in the early mornings than during the day.

Bennett had only seen Klee a few times, but it was enough to make him like her. She also spoke in simple words making the conversations more fun than when he talked to other people.

They walked in silence until they reached a door. Lisa stopped at it and gave the wooden door 3 knocks.

Razor could hear the shuffling of feet, then the clanking of metal before the door opened. Standing before home was a person with blond hair and a yellow diamond on his neck. He looked shocked to see them, but after Lisa exchanged some words with him, they walked in.

It was a nice place. Everything was neat, and it felt cozy. As Razor looked around he could see many books, and also a couple drawings.

“Razor, let’s sit for now. He is going to get Klee.” Lisa told him as she sat down on a blue couch.

Razor copied her and they waited for a bit before there was creaking of wood, and the man came out from around the corner with a very tired Klee behind him.

“Razor? What are you doing here?” She asked as she sat down.

“I say goodbye to you.” He replied. “I’m going away to Sumeru today. I say goodbye to friend.” He explained.

Klee’s eyes looked a bit sad, but she responded cheerfully, “Razor, go to Sumeru and learn a ton of stuff.”

“I care for you friend.” He said.

Klee yawned then rubbed her eyes and they sat there in silence for a few seconds.

“Good job Razor. We should let Klee sleep now. She looks quite tired.” Lisa offered Klee a smile and Klee returned it.

Before leaving Lisa talked with the man, saying things that Razor couldn’t quite understand. When they finished talking, Lisa led Razor out of the home and to Bennett.

It was a little while before they found Bennett, but just as the sun started to rise, he was in eyesight.

“Bennett!” Razor yelled out to the other boy who was trying to catch a bug.

He looked up and smiled. “Hi Razor.”

“I need to say goodbye to you. I’m going to Sumeru for a long time. I won’t see you.”

Bennett looked a mix of confused, shocked, sad, and hurt. After a bit he managed to say, “Really?”

“Yes. I go today. I say goodbye to friends and Lupical, then I go away with Master.” Razor’s voice, while normally stiff, was sounding more light. It sounded sad.

Bennett said something back to Razor, something that frustrated him because he didn’t understand. He looked up to Lisa and Lisa did the rest of the talking.

Before parting ways, Bennett went up to Razor and gave him a big hug.

“Goodbye Razor. I will miss you.” His voice slightly wavered.

“Goodbye friend.”

And that was it. They left the city and went to Razor’s Lupical, then after saying goodbye started on their way to Liyue.

As they walked there was some talking, but it was mostly Razor looking at all the new sights. When they arrived in the region of Liyue, there were so many new plants and Razor kept running up to them to smell and touch them. When he did this, Lisa would tell him some things about the plants.

“This is the land of earth.” Lisa explained to Razor whose full attention was on listening to her. “The god is a dragon.”

“A dragon?” He asked.

“A dragon is a big lizard that flies.” When she said this she spread her arms out and added. “Bigger than this.”

This got a smile of awe out of Razor, and Lisa laughed in response.

It was small conversations like that which continued through their walk. Lisa told fairy tales that were told among the citizens of Liyue. She told stories of the god who rules Liyue and how that god made the gold coins people seemed to like. It was nice to be able to spend time with his master before leaving. It was nice to be around Lupical until he got there.

While walking, off to the side of the path there was a bush that caught Razor’s eyes. It had green leaves and pink flowers on them. Razor ran up to it and looked at it for a bit before touching and smelling it.

“Pretty.” Razor told Lisa when she made it over to him.

“They are quite pretty aren’t they.” Lisa smiled as Razor nodded. “Do you want one?” She asked him and when he said yes she picked one.

“Thank you master.” He said as Lisa handed him the flower.

“Of course. Those are called Silk Flowers. They make clothes for people to wear.” Razor's eyes held so much curiosity that it made Lisa want to ramble on about them more. They were nearing their pit stop though so she held her tongue for the time being.

Up ahead of them was a tree with a building on it. For a second Razor stared in awe before speeding up to catch up to Lisa. Lisa talked to a person then walked over to a table with Razor and took a seat.

“What are we doing?” Razor asked Lisa.

“We are getting some food. We have a long way left to go to Sumeru.”

Before Razor could respond, there was the smell of food, and two dishes of food got placed in front of them.

“Here Razor. Try this.” Lisa put a chicken-mushroom skewer on a plate and also one matsutake meat roll then handed it to him. He didn’t need to be told twice before eating it.

Razor was familiar with the skewer. Lisa had cooked it for him a couple of times in the past, however her food wasn’t nearly as good as this one. Razor didn’t care much for taste, but even he could admit it was good.

When he got around to trying the meat roll, he was excited. It looked different from all of the foods in Mondstadt, and it also smelt different too. Either way, the food was just as, if not better than the skewer.

Lisa smiled when she saw that Razor was enjoying the food, and Razor smiled as he finished everything on his plate. When they were both finished, Lisa thanked the workers and the two were on the move again.

 

It couldn’t have been more than 15 minutes when a group of hilichurls came rushing at them. Lisa jumped into action immediately.

“Razor! Get behind me!” Her body started to spark with purple lightning, and the sky grew to a dark purple.

She started to fight them. There were at least five of them, and Lisa wasted no time. Razor couldn’t do anything to help her though. He had been learning how to use his vision since he got it, but Lisa was always there to monitor. She also only let him use his weapon when she was with him.

There was a rustling behind him, and he turned just in time to dodge a hilichurl that jumped out of the bush. He did his best to fend for himself, but he was small and easily overpowered.

“Master! Help!” He yelled as he looked at Lisa who had just finished with the original five hilichurls.

“Razor! Hang tight, I’ll help you.” She darted in his direction and kicked the hilichurl away. She couldn’t use her vision while it was on Razor otherwise he would get hurt.

As soon as it was off of him, she cast a high charged bolt at the thing and finished it off.

That reminded him about how he got his vision except he was in the vulnerable position instead. Remembering that made his stomach twist and turn into a tight knot.

“Razor, are you okay?” She rushed to his side and knelt down to be on his level.

“I’m okay.” Razor tried to give Lisa a smile, but it was strained.

“Let’s go to the city of Liyue. I’ll get you a weapon so this won’t happen again.”

Lisa got up and offered a hand to Razor. He took it and then the two were off again. Lisa was walking a bit faster than before, but Razor didn’t mind. He was still a bit shaken from what had happened, but he was also excited to get his own weapon.

An hour later, they made it to a point where the dirt trail switched into a cobblestone path. As they got closer, Razor spotted some differences. The roofs were green.

“Green.” He stated without any context.

“Yes, the buildings have green on top.” She started to tell Razor how things weren’t the same in Liyue as in Monstadt. He wondered if the buildings in Sumeru were going to be different from the ones here.

For the most part Razor was interested in what Lisa was saying, but he was also very distracted by all the new things. One of those things particularly caught his interest.

“What is the floating water thing?” He asked as he pointed to a boat leaving the port.

“The floating weather thing is called a boat. People can go on water using it.” She explained.

“Go away on the water is different.” His eyes glimmered as he spoke.

“Yes, traveling on water is different from walking like we are.”

As they kept walking they walked over a bridge at which Razor looked over and pointed at a fish. He kept looking around and saw all the designs on everything. The lights were different from Mondstadt too. Everything was so interesting. He loved it.

They walked through the streets then passed over a smaller bridge to a different part of the city. There were different smells all over, but they walked past all the vendors and soon walked up to a shop.

“Hello, I was hoping you have some claymores.” Lisa spoke to the man. Despite Razor's size, Lisa was well aware that he was strong, so she decided that a claymore would best fit him.

“Yes we do. Is it for you or the youngsters?” He asked.

“It’s for him.” She replied while ruffling Razor's hair.

The man wandered over to the back of his area and started sorting through different weapons.

“Are you excited to get your very own claymore?” Lisa asked him. Razor vibrated with excitement from hearing this. He had used them before, but it was different being able to have one of his own. One that he would get to keep.

“Yes! I’m excited!” He was so enthusiastic and his smile was so big. He would finally be able to protect his Lupical all the time. This thought immediately got shot down because he realized he wouldn’t be with any Lupical. He would be away from everyone.

“I bet you are.” Lisa ruffled his hair and smiled. “You’re going to grow big and strong one day. Big and strong people can protect others.”

It was almost like she knew what he was thinking.

When the man returned, he had a claymore in his hands. It was a bit bigger than the one he normally used, but that just excited him even more. Lisa had said a few things to the man and he nodded and smiled.

“L and R.” She said, When Razor looked at her confused, she explained more. “L for Lisa, and R for Razor. That way you will be the only one with something like that.”

It wasn’t too long before the man finished. When he handed it to Razor. It was a well made sword and the engraving of the L & R was at the base of it by the handle. He wasn’t sure which one was which, but he stared at it with awe either way.

The man turned to Lisa and thanked her for doing business with him. She responded with a kind smile, then the two were off again.

“Thank you master!”

“You’re welcome little wolfie.” She took a moment to smile back then continued speaking. “We’ve still got a long way to go.”

And just like that, their little pit stop in Liyue was over and they were back on the road. They still had a few hours till the sun set, and by the looks of it they still had a long while to walk. Lisa had told him that they would stop for the day when they reached the underpass.

She had pointed it out to him once it was in sight, and it looked to be within a 30 minute walk. They chatted for a bit, but when they reached a split path, something caught Razor’s attention.

To the left side of the fork, there was a little fox. It took Lisa a second to catch on, but it was already too late because Razor had launched himself forward and caught the thing.

“Razor. Let the fox go.” Lisa walked up to him then stared down at him with her arms crossed. That was all it took for Razor to let the poor thing go. It didn’t hesitate to run off once it was freed.

Razor looked at her with sulky eyes, but it didn’t work.

“We’re going to set up camp soon. We’ll eat when we get there.”

Chapter Text

As they approached the underpass, Lisa suddenly got quiet. Razor followed her eyes to see that there was a man in the middle of the path. He wore a black mask, and a black jacket. It might’ve just been because Lisa was on edge, but a chill ran up Razor’s spine.

Lisa muttered something under her breath that might have been understandable if he knew more. She then turned and looked at Razor.

“You stay here, I’m going to go talk to that man. Make sure you have your claymore hidden but ready to use if necessary.”

Even with a fake smile plastered on Lisa’s face, Razor could tell that the man wasn’t anyone good to be around. Before Lisa left to talk to him, she pointed to a bush and told him to hide there. Razor complied, and just watched silently as Lisa went up to the man. The conversation didn’t seem to be going terribly, but that wasn’t saying much given how Razor just a few days ago thought the conversation with the three adventurers was good.

It annoyed him that he didn't know how to talk. It also annoyed him that he didn’t understand human body language like he understood the body language of his wolf Lupical. It was all so confusing to him. Especially after what happened to Bennett the other day, he needed to learn. It was a better way to protect them.

“Ok Razor, you can come over now.” Lisa yelled towards him. The man who she was going to talk to was crumpled in a fetal position on the ground. When he tried to get up, Lisa kicked him in the stomach.

When Razor finally made it over to where Lisa was, she had finished tying the man up and tossed him into a bush.

“Master…” Razor’s voice trailed off, but Lisa seemed to know what he was thinking.

“That is a bad person. We don’t want bad people around us, right?”

A wave of understanding came over Razor, and he nodded in agreement.

If that was a bad person like the adventurers who weren’t nice to Bennett, he didn’t want to give any pity to him.

 

The night passed, and then it was sunrise. Razor and Lisa packed up, and started their walk again. They had to stop a few times, some because of monsters, and others to talk to the locals for directions. When they stopped for lunch, Razor was glad because the food was just as good as the food from the day before. Even with all the tension of being away from his old life, he knew he could get used to it if there was food as good as what he’d had so far.

They walked through a mining area called the Chasm. It was an area where there was a giant hole in the center.

Lisa told him the story about how there came to be a hole there and Razor listened to the best of his ability. Something about the floating land in the sky dropping it there. Even though he hadn’t reached his learning destination, he was learning more and more words.

One of the people Lisa talked to guided them on a path leading around the hole. The place had way more monsters than the rest of their travel had so far and it caused Razor to feel uneasy. The person who guided seemed to know how to hold them off well enough and Lisa helping the man made Razor feel more safe.

It was a bit of a walk to get around the Chasm, and all the walking from the day before combined with the mental exhaustion of being around the monsters made him feel drained.

Luckily they reached an underpass which Lisa told him would bring them to Sumeru.

As they entered, Razor realized that it was very different from the Chasm. The Chasm was dry and the sun watched from above as they walked, causing Razor's lips to become a bit chapped.

Meanwhile as soon as they passed through the tunnel they were hit with a wave of humidity. It was unlike anything Razor had ever felt and made him feel like he couldn’t breath. He tried breathing deeper to see if the air would feel less wet in his lungs but that didn’t help.

Upon seeing Razor’s silly expressions as he adapted to the new environment, Lisa lightly laughed. It reminded her of her first time visiting Sumeru. Walking the same path on her way to become a scholar.

“Razor, we are almost there.” Lisa said while looking through the forest. “You will meet your new master, then I will be gone.”

Razor nodded, acknowledging that he heard what she had said. He didn’t really want to respond out loud. It would make everything feel more real. It’s not that it didn’t feel real already, It definitely did. Everything was new and different and there was no avoiding that. But it would be real in the way he wouldn’t be around the things he knows and loves.

He felt his heart beat with many emotions as they walked through the plant filled area. Maybe it was anxiety or maybe it was anticipation. Either way it made his hands slightly shake as they continued on.

“You know, years ago there was a girl who was in Mondstadt. She moved here and has been learning since.” Lisa smiled fondly. “She also wanted to learn like you do.”

Though it wasn’t spoken, Razor understood what she was trying to get across. That he wouldn’t be alone and it will all be okay. He was glad to hear that there was someone else who would be learning alongside him.

“She sends letters sometimes.” Lisa added.

“Letters to you?” Razor asked.

“Yes. She talks to me through paper and tells me what she is learning.”

“I want to talk to you too.” Razor replied knowing that he would do his best to make that happen.

Even though Razor didn’t spend much time around Lisa overall, the travel made him feel more connected and attached to her. She was starting to feel like Lupical to him.

As they rounded a corner on the trail, a small village was revealed. It was way smaller than the city of Monstadt, and surrounded by nature.

“This is Gandhara Ville.” Lisa told him.

“Pretty.” Razor murmured in awe. The houses were in the trees. It was so different, so cool. It reminded him of the fairytale books Lisa read him when he was younger and learning the basics of how to speak.

She led him up a staircase that went to one of the houses. “If I remember correctly, it should be right around here..” Lisa talked to herself while Razor looked at all the new things. “Oh! Here we are.”

They stopped at a dome shaped house that had leaves acting as a door.

“Tighnari.” Lisa knocked on the wood to the side of the entrance. “We’re here.”

There was a clatter and a few muttered words before the leaves were pulled aside revealing a man with dark hair and long ears on top of his head. He looked quite grumpy. He held a piece of paper in his hand, but it was getting wrinkled because of how tightly he was holding it.

“Lisa. I have a few words for you, and they aren’t nice.” He glares at Lisa who laughs in response.

“Good to see you’re the same as usual.” Lisa smiled.

The two had a conversation consisting of words Razor didn’t understand, and occasionally his name. He had caught a few of the key parts though. Tighnari didn’t get a response to a letter he sent Lisa. Lisa had shocked him. The last part he grew was mostly based on assumption, but it was that Tighnari didn’t want Razor there. It was fair of him to assume that given how frustrated the Tighnari person was.

He felt the weight of unknown words pile onto him as he stood helplessly staring.

“Ok. I’ll take him.” Tighnari said after he and Lisa bickered for a bit.

“That was easier than I expected.” Lisa had thought that she said that quiet enough for no one to hear but Tighnari obviously had when a frustrated look overcame his face.She knew that he would take Razor in either way, but he wanted to let Lisa know his frustration first.

“Razor, can you introduce yourself to Tighnari?” Lisa changed her attention to the boy who had been standing beside her but had yet to say anything.

“Hello. I am Razor.” He stated, doing his best and failing miserably not to sound choppy.

“Can you tell him why you want to learn?”

“I need to speak better so I can protect friends.” Razor fiddled with the cuff of his sleeves, Suddenly the new clothing feeling itchy on his skin.

Tighnari turned to Lisa, “You weren’t ------- when you said he was --- ------ everyone else.” He then directed his attention back to razor and gave the first smile in the time he had been there. “It’s nice to meet you Razor. I am Tighnari and I will be teaching you how to speak.”

It was the first time Razor had felt warmth radiate off of Tighnari’s voice, which made Razor feel more at ease.

“Razor, there is one other person you will be living with.” Lisa gestured for him to follow Tighnari into a different area where a girl with green hair sat at a desk writing something.

“Collei, I brought our new ----- here.” The girl looked up from her papers and smiled at Razor.

“Hi! I’m Collei.” She had energy coursing through her voice.

“I am Razor.” He gave a smile. The way she presented herself reminded her of a more timid version of Bennett.

“I like the flower in your hair.” She gave a small smile and pointed to the hair tie with a decorative flower on it.

After talking for a bit more, Lisa pulled Razor aside.

“Razor, I’m going to leave now.” She said, giving a sad smile. “Now that you are in Sumeru you can learn so many things. You’re a smart kid so just do your best.” She ruffled Razor’s hair then smiled again, this time more happy.

“Thank you Master.” He spoke quietly.

“I believe in you, Razor. Write letters to me when you can.”

“I will. Goodbye Master.” Sadness seeped out through the cracks in his voice.

“Bye little wolfie.” She gave him a hug which felt both foreign and comforting, then walked out the door and away.

That was it. She was gone and he was here. He was in a new place with new people to learn new things. As much as all of that frightened him, it also thrilled him. He was going to do his best and learn. He was going to be able to protect everyone.

“Hey Razor, we’re going to eat soon. Do you want to help us cook?” Tighnari’s voice came from inside.

“Help cook?” He questioned as he walked towards where the two new people were standing.

“Make food for us.” Tighnari simplified.

“I don’t know how.” Razor frowned upon realizing another thing he didn’t know how to do.

“That’s ok. We’ll teach you.”

And just like that Razor’s appreciation for his new teacher grew.

Chapter Text

Day 6 - letter 1
Dear Master

Hello master. I like Sumeru. Mr. Tighnari is different, but good. Collei is kind. I like them. I miss my Lupical and friends. I’m learning new things. I am going to get better.

Razor

 

Dear Razor,

My little wolfie, I am glad that you like Sumeru. It really is a beautiful place. When I lived there, I spent a lot of time not looking around, so try to enjoy life there. It is an amazing place. The flower hair piece I gave you is designed after a flower from Sumeru. I always found it so pretty. I hope that you can find things that you love there.

I saw Bennett the other day and he misses you too. He said that he has been a wreck because he can’t make good food, so I invited him to eat with me. The both of you are similar in the way that you enjoy good food.

Klee has also been doing good. She is still young, but that girl can destroy anything. She set the forest on fire and it was a mess. She said that you normally help with the fires. I can tell she misses you too.

It’s good that your learning has been good. You are so smart so I know you will get better soon.

Love,
Lisa

 

Day 24- letter 2

Dear Master

I am getting better at speaking. I learnt some grammar. Tighnari says I need to learn filler words. I don’t know how to write yet but Collei is teaching me. She helps me write letters for you. I will learn more. I love my Lupical and friends. I need to protect them. Collei and me walked in the forest. It is different. It is also nice. Bennett and Klee are friends. You protect them for me. Thank you.

Razor

 

Dear Razor,

I can already see the difference in your speaking! It is getting better. I am glad that you have learnt so much in such a short amount of time. You’re doing great so far. Keep it up!

Collei is a nice girl. I’m glad that she is helping you write these letters, but I hope you learn to write on your own. You are improving so much, but writing is very important. It helps you learn to read better. When you learn to read, I’m sure that you will learn so many new things.

I have been talking with Bennett once a week. I cook him food and we talk. He really misses you. He loves to hear about how you’re doing. Maybe once you learn to read and write, you can send letters to him too. I’m sure he would love that.

I’m glad that you are going out into the forest with Collei. I hope that you don’t go too far from Gandharva Ville. It is good to stay near because going too far out is dangerous. I know you have your claymore and electro power, but you still need to be careful. If you want to go further out I’m sure Tighnari would take you out. He is a very skilled forest watcher.

I check in on Klee too. Don’t worry, she is okay. She is safe.

Keep learning Razor!

Love,
Lisa

 

Day 83 - Letter 3

Dear Master,

I am writing the letter this time. I have gotten better at reading and writing. Tighnari and Collei say that my handwriting is bad. I will get better at that. Tighnari is having me read books now. The stories are good. I like them. I saw markings when I was reading my first one. Tighnari told me that they are called punctuation. I’m not good at it yet.

Tighnari is teaching me about the forest. He said that if Collei and me need to know more to be safe. I like learning about the forest. It is fun. There are different animals here. I catch them and Tighnari and Collei teach me how to cook. I like cooking.

I hope you and friends and Lupical are safe.

Love,
Razor

 

Dear Razor,

Happy birthday!! How does it feel to be 12 years old? I remember when you were 8 years old and still ate sticks. You have learnt so much since then. I’m sorry I took a long time to respond to your last letter. I wanted to send this so it would arrive on your birthday.

As a little gift I have sent you a book. It’s called the Teyvat Travel Guide. It is a fun book, and the person who wrote it is Klee’s mom! Speaking of which, Klee is going good. She loves to make her bombs, but that is getting her in a little bit of trouble.

Bennett is doing good too. I have been teaching him how to use a sword. He wants to become an adventurer just like his dads one day. He said that when he becomes a good enough adventurer, he will go to Sumeru and see you. You have an amazing friend right there.

The forests in Sumeru are very different from the ones in Mondstadt. I’m glad that you enjoy them. Maybe one day you’ll become a student at the akademiya! It’s tough there, but if you have the passion for nature you will be good at it. Tighnari used to go there. That’s how he became such a good forest watcher.

Cooking is a good skill. I’ve never been the best at it. Maybe when we see each other again you can make me some food. I would love to taste it!

Love,
Lisa

 

Day 252 - Letter 4
Dear Master,

I am getting really good at speaking. I am able to understand almost all of the things people talk about. I have also gotten way better at using filler words and punctuation. Thank you for bringing me here to learn. I have gotten so much better at reading, writing, and speaking. It is nice not being confused when I try and talk to someone.

To help me learn to read and write better Tighnari has had me write in a journal every day for the past 100 days. I like to write a lot. It helps me understand everything so much better.

I’m sorry I haven’t written to you. I got caught up in my studies. When you told me about the akademia, I wanted to learn more. I don’t know if I want to be a student there yet, but I want to prepare just in case.

Collei has started to go on patrol with Tighnari. She wants to become a forest watcher too. I got a bit jealous so a few days ago I was looking at the books Tighnari has and I found one about the forests in Sumeru. It’s hard to read, but I am doing my best. I really want to learn more so that I can be with Tighnari and Collei. They know so much and I want to know as much as they do.

I also want to learn more about the forest because Collei is sick. She’s been sick for a while, but her health is getting worse. Tighnari is always helping her with medicine, so I want to do that too. She is my Lupical now and I need to protect her. She is such an amazing person, I don’t know what I would do if she wasn’t here.

When I told Tighnari about that, he told me that he would help me study herbal medicine. The book I’m reading has a lot of hard words, but I know I can get past that. After all, I have such an amazing teacher.

I think I’ll send Bennett a letter soon. I hope he won’t mind. I’m just so happy that he wants to see me.

Love,
Razor

 

Dear my little wolfie,

You have grown so much! It’s not even been a year yet, but you know how to read, write, and speak! I hope you know that I am so proud of you. You are such a smart kid. Already learning about medicine while you’re only 12! You’ve got this little wolfie.

When I sent you away from Mondstadt, I didn’t know if it was a good idea or not. I was scared that you would hate it in Sumeru and not be happy away from home. Now that I can see you now, I am so glad that you are there and learning.

Tighnari is an amazing teacher. I remember when we sent Collei there. He was a panicked mess. I'm glad that he has done so well in teaching you. The journaling part of your education is brilliant. I never would have thought of that.

It’s okay that you haven’t written to me in a while. I understand how easy it is to get lost in studying. When I was your age I also had my nose stuck in books. It wasn’t until I was 14 that I decided to go to the akademia. It was a great idea. It helped me so much. If you decide to go there, know that you are the one leading your studies. Don’t let them push you around. Do what you want to do.

You taking an interest in medicine isn’t a surprise to me. I knew that you would find passion while living in Sumeru. I thought through what it could be, and given your life living in the woods, I thought it would be medicine. Saving family is so important to you. I know that you will go far if you pursue that.

The more you read books that are challenging for you, the more you will learn. When I was little I always pushed myself. I would read a challenging book, then when I was done I would take it up a notch and get a harder one after that. When I finished that book, I would go back to the first book. It helped me better understand the things I didn’t fully get the first time. Just a little tip from me.

When I told Bennett that you were going to write a letter to him, his eyes lit up. He is so excited to hear from you. He really misses you. I know that he was a big reason you decided to leave. You are driven by your motive to protect those you love. This is a good thing, to help the ones you love, but don’t forget about yourself. You are your own friend too and if you don’t protect yourself sometimes, it will make it harder to help others.

It may sound a bit counter intuitive, but I know that with time you will understand that.

My little wolfie, keep being such an amazing person.

Love,
Lisa

P.S. You can stop calling me master. You are family to me.

 

Day 276 - letter 5
Dear Lisa,

I wrote Bennett. I was really nervous because I think I’m different from before, but I sent it regardless. I hope he will still be friends with me.

Besides that, I used the reading trick that you taught me in your last letter, and it worked really well. I was shocked by how much I learnt the second time I read it. It makes sense the more that I think about it. If I read something challenging, I get better by the end of the book. If I continue to challenge myself my reading gets better than before. When I return to it I have a better understanding of the words and the general topic.

You’re super smart Lisa. Thank you for the tip. If you have any more tips, send them my way. I think it would help a lot.

Tighnari had a friend over the other day. His name is Cyno. I never thought that Tighnari would be friends with someone who makes such bad puns. Collei and I couldn’t stop laughing every time Cyno told a joke and Tighnari scowled. It was really funny, I wish I had a kamera to have the disgust on his face framed.

Tighnari said that if I continue to study for two more months I will be able to go with him and Collei on patrol. He said it would only be a short one and I would go once per month at most, but I think that’s a win.

While I was reading, I dove deeper into Withering Zones. It turns out that Eleazar is similar to Withering Zones. When I go on patrol I want to be able to see a Withering Zone and understand it better. If I can figure out how the two of them relate, maybe I can help Collei.

I forgot to thank you for the birthday gift. I know it’s a bit late, but that book was really fun for me to read when I was learning. I’ve read it so many times by now that I can practically recite it from memory. Thanks for the amazing gift Lisa.

With love,
Razor

 

Dear Razor,

When Bennett got your letter he ran all the way to my house and started to cry. He was so happy to hear from you. He was so glad that you are doing well and that you still care for him. Both of you were so anxious about the other not liking them, but it seems that both of you care so much.

As for some studying tricks, there aren’t many that I think you don’t know. Some of the basics is not just reading but putting your knowledge to practice. Ask Tighnari if you can help and he could guide you through it. I think that would be a great way to learn.

I remember Cyno was one of my juniors. I didn’t know him well, but I’m glad to see that he is doing well. The first time I heard about Tighnari it was from Cyno. I met him when I was dropping Collei off to him. We kept in touch for the main purpose of Collei. I’m not shocked that Cyno is still his friend. After all, everyone needs that one friend who is the opposite of you.

When you start to research eleazar, stick to the known things especially with Collei. She’s been through enough. Unless she specifically asked you, don’t do anything new. Using people as a test subject is a line you don’t want to cross.

You are doing great Razor. Don’t ever forget that. You have caught up and surpassed many kids your age despite not knowing how to speak properly until recently. You are incredible.

Stay safe.

Love,
Lisa

 

Day 340 - Letter 6
Hi Lisa!

Happy birthday to you! I know I missed it last year, so I’m glad that I am able to send a letter to you this year. I know it’s not much, but I wrote the recipe of some of the food I cook here down for you. I know you wanted to taste my cooking, and I promise that I’ll cook for you one day, but until then I hope this will do.

I decided that I will attend the akademia. I’ve been thinking about it for a while now, and when I talked about it with Tighnari, he thought it was a good idea. I’m almost 13, and Tighnari said that when I turn 14 I can start to go there.

Because of this, I started to kick up my studying. Tighnari has also allowed me to patrol with him and Collei more. He said that he wants to prepare me for the future. Like you said, knowing things is good, but putting them to practice is different. It’s been helpful to practice my knowledge with Tighnari.

Yesterday, Cyno was here again. He brought some cards and taught us how to play this game. It’s called genius invocation TCG, but Collei and I agreed that it was too long to say every time. Cyno is very persistent about us using the full name. We only call it by that when he’s around.

I like it when Cyno comes over. My little family with Tighnari and Collei is more tense when Cyno isn’t around. When he is, life is way more lively. He’s annoying but kind. It’s fun either way, but it’s a different kind of fun.

Anyways, I hope you have an amazing birthday!!

Love you,
Razor

 

Dear Razor!!

Hello my little wolfie! Thank you for the recipes! I tried them out and they were pretty good. When Bennett came over the other night, I gave him one to try and he loved it. You know, he’s been in a better mood since you started to write letters to him. I’m glad that the two of you are friends.

So the akademia. I’m glad that you want to go there. I liked my time there. It was good for my learning. I learnt where to explore, and when to not. It’s very important that you learn that. You are the smartest kid I know and I am so excited for you to go there. It will be tough at times, but I believe that you can do it.

I get the Cyno thing. When it’s just me and Jean, we are always so business focused, but when you add Kaeya into it, everything brightens up. It’s not that I don’t like being around Jean alone, It’s the opposite. I love being around her. When Kaeya comes though it’s a different kind of relationship. I love being around Jean when we’re alone, and when we’re not. Either way she is my friend.

I know that you’re going to be studying more, but keep in mind that while studying is important, so is having fun. You’re still a kid. You can’t just give up your childhood for knowledge. I did that, and I regret it. I wish that I was more of a child when I was young. It would have been more fun.

Don’t forget that taking those breaks are just as important as studying. Even if you’re going on patrol, you don’t have to see it as studying. You could see it as helping others. Instead of a job, think of it as a joy. If you enjoy keeping everyone safe, then you’re able to do your job and take a break at the same time.

Once again, thank you for the recipes. Also happy early birthday. I won’t be able to send any letters for a bit. I’ll have Bennett send you the gift. I’ll be able to get letters by June next year.

Love,
Lisa

 

Day 697 - Letter 7
Dear Lisa,

It’s been a bit less than a year since I last sent you a letter. I really hope you are doing well. Bennett told me that you were off on some kind of mission with the Knights of Favonius. I know that you’re okay, but there is just that part of my mind that is scared you’re going to be hurt.

Anyways, since it’s been a while, I’ll catch you up on what I’ve learnt. Tighnari took me to Sumeru City. I didn’t even know that trees could be that big. It was an amazing city. The way that it was designed is incredible.

I also learnt about the Akasha Terminal. It seems so incredible that that device can exist. Tighnari got one for me, but told me not to use it unless it was an emergency. He said that if I rely on it too much my skills will slowly go away.

I understand where he’s coming from, but at the same time, I really want to try it out. All of the other students at the akademia will be using it, so if I don’t it puts me at a disadvantage. Then again, if something happens to the technology and it fails, I will be quite far ahead.

Collei wants to attend the akademia too. She is waiting on it until her eleazar symptoms die down a bit more. She has been doing better recently, I just hope it keeps improving.

I’m going to be joining the Amurta Darshan. Tighnari was part of it when he was at the akademia. He helped me understand the bone structure of the course. I hope this helps me get a leg up on other scholars, but I’m still not sure.

Cyno has been teaching me how to fight better. You taught me the basics, but when you left, I was stuck training on my one. It turns out that Cyno also has an electro vision. He has been helping me learn more. He also is helping me learn to wield my claymore better. He’s a really good fighting teacher.

I’m glad that I get to talk to you again. You’re Lupical to me and I love you. You have done so much for me and I am excited to put it to use when I go to the akademia.

Love,
Razor

Chapter Text

2 days before Razor goes to Sumeru - Letter 1
Tighnari,

I hope this letter finds you well. It has been a while since I last wrote to you and I hope everything is still going alright. Every so often I get letters from Collei, so I know that you are a good teacher to her. You have helped her catch up to the other kids her age.

Regarding why I am sending you this letter is that I have an 11 year old boy who is only capable of speech on the level of a 4 year old at most. He wasn’t raised around humans so because of that he hadn’t gotten taught many things.

Yesterday he came up to me and asked him to teach him. I have been assisting him in using his vision and basic speech, however my abilities as a teacher are limited. So that is why I am writing to you.

We will be at Gandharva Ville in 2 days time. I am hoping that you will teach this boy how to speak, read, and write properly. I believe that this won’t take too long. He is a bright child who learns quickly. He is smart and I am confident that he will be able to stand on the same level as other kids his age in a year's time.

Thank you for taking him in,
Lisa

 

Day 7 - Letter 2
Dear Lisa,

It has been a week since you dropped Razor off here. I would be lying if I said I wasn’t mad at you for springing this on me, but I can see where you are coming from.

Like you said he is a bright kid. He has this drive to learn new things. Right now he is conflicted about not being home. He is eleven after all. There is no way that he would be able to move for the first time without feeling homesick.

Despite that, he is doing his best every day. I believe that 2 weeks from now he will be able to understand more than half of a conversation. Right now, he can only understand around a fourth of a normal conversation, but that is a great improvement given that he didn’t understand what we were talking about when I first met him.

I’m still trying to pinpoint his motive to learn. With his limited vocabulary, I have narrowed it down to either a child’s curiosity, or for someone else.

Best wishes,
Tighnari

 

Dear Tighnari,

His motive is external. He wants to protect his loved ones. Recently one of them got hurt, and he didn’t understand why. What he had concluded is that he was unable to communicate with humans because of his inability to speak well.

He just wants to help those he loves.

I love that kid from the bottom of my heart. When I saw him the day he asked to learn more, it broke me to see him like that. Please Tighnari. Do your best to help him grow.

Sincerely,
Lisa

 

Day 14 - Letter 3
Dear Lisa,

Razor has been doing well in his studies. He has understood more than I thought he would at this point. I would say he is half a week out from being conversational. He is making great progress.

After you told me his main motive, I switched around my way of teaching him. Instead of going through normal words, I started with words that revolve around love and protecting. I figured that this would motivate him more than normal. It has been working so far, I just hope that he doesn't short circuit from too much knowledge.

Collei took him out to see the town and learn about some of the plants. He really liked that. He is a very adventurous kid. I’m glad that both of them are getting along well. Collei has been more happy since Razor has been here. I think it’s good for both of them to be around someone who they are closer in age to. Collei has always been so awkward so who knows, maybe this will help polish her social skills.

Speak to you soon,
Tighnari

 

Dear Tighnari,

It’s great to be getting this update letter from you. He’s a good student, and I’m not surprised he’s doing well. I major reason he is doing well isn’t just because of the way he latches onto information quickly, but it is also because you are his teacher. Just know you are doing great and I am grateful that you agreed to take him in.

It’s a good thing that he took my advice to look around Sumeru. If he stays cooped up then he won’t learn to appreciate the land. Do me a favor for now and keep him in Gandharva Ville for a while. He has been doing well taking in all the new information so far, but I don’t want to push him too far.

Collei has always been a good kid. I think that the two of them will grow a strong relationship as time continues. They both grew up in untraditional circumstances and were behind in their learnings. Make sure that they don’t confide in each other too much though. It could weigh them down if they do. Both of them have enough to bear on their own, they don’t need to fully share it with one another.

Stay in touch,
Lisa

 

Day 50 - Letter 4

Dear Lisa,

It’s been a while since either Razor or I have written to you. I thought that an update was overdue so here it is.

When Razor heard me read your last letter, he got really motivated to learn to read and write. He has been working really hard since then and decided not to write to you until he can write to you on his own.

I had Collei and him read books together. They enjoy it a lot. I’m hoping that the fairy tales will make learning more fun for him. The two of them have been getting along really well. I agree with keeping them distant enough, but I also want them to feel at home with one another. They don’t have any real family here, so I have to make this the best home they have.

Ever since the two of them snuck off, I have been teaching them about the first and its dangers. I didn’t want either of them to get hurt. Well, Collei went out alone and was trying to help a family whose kid has gone missing. She went to search for the kid because I was with the other forest watchers at a meeting.

When Razor told me she went off on her own, I left immediately to find her and when I did… Well I was shocked to say the least. She had taken down many monsters with a vision she had gotten. Her illness has worsened because of her use of elemental energy. She told me that she will use it if it can protect others.

I can tell that Razor took notice of this change. He has stayed by her more often and also took more interest in my forestry lessons. It’s an innocent drive for not, but I’m anxious that it will grow to be more than that. It’s still at the point where I can guide their relationship and keep it healthy, but I have to be cautious.

Razor has been helping out with cooking. He’s enjoying it so far. He’s going to be a better cook than me when he’s older. He sure knows how to make the house smell good that’s for sure.

Anyways, I hope you’re doing well.
Tighnari

 

Dear Tighnari,

I’m a bit nervous about how Collei and Razor’s relationship is developing. When Razor got his vision he also vowed to protect people with it. Just make sure to keep a close eye on them. Let them know when things are going too far.

On a side note, I’m glad that Razor still intends on writing to me. I was scared for a second there that my little wolfie forgot about me. Let him know that I am looking forward to his next letter.

I’ve never been the best cook, but when we were on our way to Sumeru we stopped off and got some food from Liyue. I really loved it, and I am sure that he is trying to make some food that is on that level. It’s going to be pretty hard to beat the food from the Wangshu Inn. He has a good sense of smell though so he might be able to get pretty close.

Thank you as always,
Lisa

 

Day 180 - Letter 5

Dear Tighnari,

It has been ages since I last heard from Razor. Can you let me know how he is doing?

Sincerely,
Lisa

 

Dear Lisa,

Yes, I am sorry for forgetting to write you updates. It has gotten a bit busy around here and I am doing my best to keep up with Collei and Razor’s lesson plans along with my patrolling.

Razor has been working really hard on his studies. He is fluent now and can read and write. When you wrote to him about the akademiya, he got really interested and started to study more to prepare to go there if he wants. He’s not sure yet, but he wants to be ready for anything.

A week ago I asked him if he was going to visit Mondstadt any time since he has caught up to others. He told me that he wouldn’t go just yet. He said something about needing to finish his learnings before going back there. He’s focused on learning and it is showing in his progress, but I am afraid that he is going to burn himself out if he continues like this.

I believe that the reason that he is pushing himself is because he learnt about Collei’s illness. I sometimes catch him trying to read the more complex medical books when I’m not around. I had a talk with him about it and I told him that he needs to learn to read better before starting on those.

He is so selfless. I can see where you’re coming from when you say that you’re nervous about how his relationship with Collei is going to be. In your next letter try and tell him to take time for himself. The only reason I haven't told him that is because if I tell him now and it doesn’t work, then you tell him it again it will be harder to convince him to. He holds you in high regard so he’ll listen better if you’re the only one to say it.

Send me a letter when you want another update,
Tighnari

 

Day 332 - Letter 6

Dear Tighnari,

I wanted to get this point across at the beginning of the letter so you have a visual as I explain everything in this letter. I won’t be able to write to Razor for a while because I am going on a mission for the Knights of Favonius. I don’t want Razor to know too much about this because the risks of this mission are very high.

There is a chance that I could lose my life on this mission, but I have to do it. Mondstadt is going to have a very hard time if I don’t go. It’s going to be tough, but I have a good feeling that I will make it out alive.

When I return it should be June and I will be able to send letters at that point. You won’t be able to contact me, and I won’t be able to contact you until I return. I trust that you can keep your knowledge of my mission a secret.

Moving on, I have a few requests. The first of which is that when Razor decides that he will be a student at the akademiya, take him to the city and show him around. He should be more at peace knowing what life will be like there.

When you are at Sumeru City, get him an akasha, but don’t allow him to use it unless it is absolutely needed. He is smart and I don’t want him dulling his talent by leaning on that device. You and I both understand the danger of using that thing. Keep it as far away from him as you can.

My next request is that you help prepare him for his class. I’m assuming that when he decides that he is going to study at the akademiya he will choose the Amurta Darshan just like you. Because he won’t be using an akasha he will be put at a disadvantage. I would like it if you could give him an overview of what that branch of the akademiya studies will look like. I know that he won’t have too much of a problem if you don’t do this, but it will help him get out of that place quicker.

If you can do this request, please do, but if you can’t that should be fine. I want Razor to have more training on how to use his vision and claymore. When I last saw him he was decent that’s for sure, however if I fail at this mission people might come after him and he’ll be put in danger.

I will be doing everything I can to keep them away from him, but if I don’t make it out there is a chance that they will go after him. I have made a plan to throw them off track if I don’t make it out, but that plan will only stall them for a year or so.

The sooner you can send him to the akademiya the better. He will be safer there, and you and Collei will be safer with him not around as often. I know that you have trained Collei to be strong, and both of you together will be good, but if Razor is alone he won’t last.

My last request is that you pretend you don’t know a thing about me being sent on this mission. He will want to know and he will break down if I die, but you can’t tell him a thing. I love that kid so much and the thought of him being angry at his only family for knowing the risk I’m going through but not telling him is just hard. He doesn’t have a blood family, and he doesn’t have many friends, but he does have you and Collei. If he loses both of you too. I don’t think he’ll be okay.

Tighnari, thank you for looking after Razor all of this time. I am in your debt and when I come back I owe you.

Take care,
Lisa

Chapter Text

Day 700 - Letter 1

Dear Bennett,

Hi. I know it’s been a while since I was last able to talk to you, and the best I can do right now is send you a letter. I’ve been getting updates from Lisa while I have been gone, and I think it’s really cool that you want to be an adventurer. I think you would make a great adventurer. You have the spirit to do it and as long as you enjoy it, it’s a good decision.

Over the past while I sometimes find myself wondering what you have been up to and I am so excited that I can hear it from you instead of just wondering. I hope everything has been going well.

As for me, I have learned so much since I got here. You know, the reason I wanted to learn in the first place is because of how you got hurt protecting me from what those people were saying. I was so frustrated that I couldn’t understand what they were saying so I decided to learn how to understand everything.

Now that I know how to talk properly and read and write, I think it was the best idea I’ve had. At first I just wanted to be able to speak, but now I have a lot more to learn about. I planned on going back by the time that I learnt how to speak better, but it will be a bit longer before I go back home. I have some things I need to sort out here before I go back.

Anyways, keep out of trouble,
Razor

 

Dear Razor,

Wow you have gotten way better at talking. It’s crazy to think you’re the same person! It’s a bit sad that I won’t be able to see you yet, but I am pumped for the day that we get to see each other again.

Oh! Do you still have long hair? I was wondering about that because I don't know. You didn’t really go into the city often so I always thought that was why you had long hair. But if you still have it, is it cause you like it?

Oh! If it is a while when we see each other, I hope that I’ll be a great adventurer, and you’ll be whatever you’re trying to be! We’ll be the best duo in Teyvat!

I’m not sure what else to write so I’ll write to you soon.
Bennett

 

Day 703 - Letter 8

Dear Razor,

I don’t know if you’ve heard yet, but Lisa hasn’t returned yet. The rest of her group is back, but they said that she went missing a week before they returned. I heard one of my dads talking to a Knight of Favonius about it yesterday.

I’m really mad about this. Lisa, she was like a mom to me. She always had me over and was someone I could talk to. It makes me mad to think that she was the only one who didn’t make it back to Mondstadt. I just… I don’t know.

Not many people know about how the mission that group went on wasn’t a complete success. Most of the people think that everything went well because the group brought back what they were trying to get. I guess they haven’t let everyone know that Lisa didn’t make it back.

I hate this. I just don’t get why she had to be the only one to not make it. The knight my dad was talking to said she is dead. It all just feels so… wrong.

I’m sorry if you had to hear the news from me. I’m not the best at explaining things.

Love,
Bennett

Chapter Text

The sunrises in Gandharva Ville were always the best, especially in the summer when Razor could sleep in a bit longer and still see the sunrise. It was something that gave Razor a bit extra fuel for the day. Lisa was right when she said Sumeru was an amazing place.

It had been about 4 days since Razor sent his letter to Lisa, but there still hadn’t been a response. The irrational part of Razor’s mind was going crazy over not getting a response yet, while his logical mind was taking a nap for the day. He had been looking forward to being able to send letters to Lisa again and it was getting hard for him to wait any longer.

After a bit of enjoying the sunrise, Razor headed back in to make some breakfast and tea for Collei and Tighnari. Even though Tighnari would never admit it, and no one would expect it from Collei, the two of them hate mornings.

For Tighnari, it’s like his whole personality swaps and he’s like Cyno when his TCG cards get a drink spilt on them. Quite the terrifying sight for so early in the morning. Threats just seem to jump out of his mouth and there is absolutely no filter.

On the other hand, Collei is a zombie when she gets up. It takes at least an hour before she starts to process that life exists. Someone could dump a glass of water on her and she wouldn’t notice for at least a few seconds.

It has been almost 3 years of living in Sumeru with Tighnari and Collei, and by far the most important thing he learned is how to make a good breakfast and wake Tighnari up without dying. When he had first arrived, he would lay on the floor and wait for a couple of hours before the two of them woke up.

Back then Razor didn’t know how to cook, read, or talk to people so it was tough to find something fun to do. Now that he is able to do all of those things, he cooks for the devil and the zombie in the morning to transform them back into normal people. If Tighnari is having an especially bad morning, Razor goes out into the village and helps everyone with their morning chores.

Life is quite different from living in Mondstadt. It’s so different it’s hard to believe that he had lived in both areas within the last few years, but it’s nice. Things in Gandharva Ville are way better than he could ever imagine. Everything is so fun and interesting, everyone is so nice, there are so many amazing things. Razor wouldn’t have it any other way.

It’s not like he doesn’t miss Mondstadt though. The city of freedom is and will always be home. There’s no doubt about that, but that doesn’t mean that Razor can’t have two homes. He loved his life in Mondstadt with his Lupical, and he loves his life with his small family of Tighnari and Collei.

Just as the food was about to be finished, Razor could hear someone walking up towards the front door. The person stopped in front of the leaves, and before he could knock Razor moved the leaves aside to greet the man.

“Hi, how is it going?” He asked the mail man who he had grown accustomed to seeing.

“It’s going well Razor, how are you?” He gave Razor a warm smile.

“Good as usual.” Razor looked back at the kitchen where he was cooking to make sure nothing was burning. “Do you have a letter for me?”

“Ah, yes.” The man shuffled through his bag for a second before pulling a letter out and handing it to him. “Here you go. Now have a good day Razor. I’ll see you when I see you.”

“Thanks, you too.” Razor went back into the cooking area and finished up before waking the sleeping monsters up.

While they were rising from the dead, Razor took the chance to read his letter. When he scanned the envelope, he had expected to see it was from Lisa, but it wasn’t. It was from Bennett.

Despite his hope of it being from Lisa, he was still happy Bennett wrote to him. After all, a letter from Bennett was always enjoyed.

Razor was in the middle of wondering if Klee got accepted as Spark Knight when he read it.

The rest of her group is back, but they said that she went missing a week before they returned.

Lisa didn’t make it back from her mission?

She was missing?

But how? Lisa was the strongest person Razor knew. If she didn’t make it back, how did everyone else? Why didn’t she tell Razor that the mission could be dangerous? Why didn’t she even tell him she was going on a mission?

…

Is she dead?

The world around him started to swirl as his stomach twisted into knots.

Sensing Razor’s unease, Tighnari snapped out of his anti morning haze.

“Razor, are you okay?” The older man lifted his eyes from his plate to see Razor who was fiddling with the corner of the letter.

“Oh–” Razor stopped himself trying to sort out his thoughts before he continued. “It’s just that Lisa is missing right now.”

Tighnari’s ears slightly twitched, but he covered it up by pretending to itch his head. It was a habit that Razor had noticed he did when his mentor had high emotions and wanted to hide it.

“I’m sure there is a reason she is missing.” Tighnari looked down at his mug that was half full of coffee. “She is a smart woman and if she was dead, she would’ve left a trace for the other knights to figure out what happened.”

“Yeah…” Razor let his eyes wander around the familiar room to sooth his racing mind. What Tighnari said was what Razor wanted to believe, but through his teachings he learnt that there were many ways for an enemy to cover a kidnapping or murder.

“Say, Razor. Would you like to go on patrol with me today? You’ve been caught up in your books for a while now and I think it’d be best if you get some fresh air.” That was Tighnari’s way of saying ‘I’m here to talk if you want to.’

When he first told Razor that, it was when Razor fell into a slump while learning how to speak. That day Tighnari found him in the corner of his room, sitting on the ground with his journal and a book next to him. Razor was so determined to get better that he spent all his time locked in his room reading and talking to himself. It wasn’t until they were a ways away from the village that Razor broke down and let all of his built up emotions out.

“I’ll go get ready then.” Razor picked up his plate of half eaten breakfast and wrapped it up to eat later. He then headed to his room to change into his forest clothes.

Most days Razor changed after cooking because feeling comfortable while adjusting to being awake is something that he enjoyed.

His hands slightly shook as he brushed out his bead head and slipped into his usual clothing. His hair style had changed a bit from what he wore when he first got to Sumeru. Instead of one long braid that went over his left shoulder, he had a small braid that reached almost to his shoulder on the left side of his face. His hair was still long, but he kept it in a low pony tail. His bangs resembled those of Cynos because Colei thought it would be fun if they matched, and he still used the hair tie Lisa gave him when he was younger.

It was partially for comfort and partially because it was fun to fiddle with when he got bored. Around a year after he moved to Gandharva Ville the elastic part broke, but Collei is pretty crafty and was able to fix it for him.

When he walked back out into the main room, Colei had finally come to her senses and started to clean the dishes from breakfast. It was the same as most mornings, just this one had started off with bad news.

When Tighnari locked eyes with Razor he smiled lightly. “Collei, Razor and I will be going out to get some air today. Make sure to read those books I gave you the other day.”

“Alright, have fun.” Colliei’s bright voice answered. It was always impressive how her voice could go from dead to full of energy within a few short minutes.

The walk through the forest was familiar and soothing. Over the years Razor had gotten to know the forest well and was comforted when surrounded by the trees and other greenery. The patrol route they were going on was one of the more quiet routes in the way that there were never many people, and didn’t have monsters often.

When Tighnari and Razor went of patrol they usually took the routes with more monsters. Razor was always good at fighting because of the strength he gained while living with wolves, but with the help of Cyno in refining his technique he was extremely skilled at what he did. Because of this Razor was able to run in while Tighnari attacked from afar shooting the hilichurls down one by one. It was a great combo that allowed them to fight efficiently.

Razor and Tighnari walked in silence for a long while, occasionally stopping to take down some scattered monsters. There weren’t any words exchanged between the two of them yet, but it was a good way of getting Razor’s thoughts to become more rational.

When they stopped to take a break under the shade of a tree, Razor finally spoke.

“I’m scared for Lisa.” He stopped talking for a while and they continued to sit in comfortable silence until Razor continued.

“I just wish I could see her again… especially if she” his voice slightly hitched, stopping and not wanting to mention that she could be dead.

“I know she’s strong and smart, but what if she got taken down by a big group? I… I don’t know what I would do if I couldn’t see her again.”

Tighnari stayed silent and opted to place a hand on his back rubbing in soothing circles.

“Lisa, she’s like a mom to me and I just don’t want to lose her.”

It was then that Razor let his rational side fall slightly as his eyes started to water.

Tighnari pulled Razor close to his chest and continued to rub his back. Tighnari wasn’t all the best at emotions, but he was always someone Razor and Collei could rely on. He might not say words that soothe the heart, but his actions were perfect to help his students.

They stayed like that for a while. Razor crying and Tighnari keeping a calm hold on him. Eventually as time passed Razor calmed and started to speak again.

“I don’t know what to do. I think she would want me to continue studying my passions if she were able to talk to me right now.” His rational mind was returning along with some hope.

“I think so too. She was so excited when she heard you were going to attend the akademiya.” Tighnari shifted their moment into one of a light topic.

Razor slightly smiled at hearing that Lisa was excited for him.

“Are you ready to head back now?” Tighnari asked as he stood up and brushed the dirt off of his clothes.

“Yeah.”

 

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When they returned it was around lunch and Collei had made a few pita pockets.

Razor and Tighnari joined Collei, who was currently studying, at the table.

“So Razor, what do you think about starting at the akademiya early?” Tighnari asked both of them. He thought that if he let Razor start early it might help him cope with the whole Lisa situation.

Both Collei and Razor’s eyes snapped up to him.

“Really Master?!” The excitement radiated off of Razor’s voice. “That would be cool!” Razor smiled genuinely and it brought ease to Tighnari.

“Yes. I know I said we would wait till you’re 13, but you have been excelling at everything I teach you.”

“I’ll set it up so you start next month. Keep studying until then. You don’t want to forget anything important especially since you won’t be using the akasha terminal.

I can’t wait to go, this is so exciting.” She let out a squeal of joy and turned to Razor “Isn’t this awesome?”

Though Collei was excited for Razor, she couldn’t help but feel a bit sad that she wouldn’t be able to attend the akademiya yet. Eleazar had made it hard for her to do patrol at times so it made sense, but still hurt.

“Yeah, I can’t wait.”Razor knew that her joy was real and that there was some disappointment behind it. He would have to bring it up later and tell her that he would do anything to figure out how to cure her.

For now he would have to keep studying until he got a lead on how to help with the disease.

“You wanted to attend Amurata, right?” Tighnari knew the answer, but still wanted to check just in case it changed.

“Yeah, that’s where I’ll learn what I need to.” Razor confirmed while fidgeting with his fingers in excitement.

“Perfect, I’ll get that set up then.” Tighnari finished off his pita pocket and walked over to his room, likely to write a letter to the akademiya.

“Collei, I promise with what I learn at Amurata I will do anything to find a cure to eleazar.” Collei smiled thoughtfully at Razor. He was practically a brother to her and the fact that he was going through such lengths to help her made her happy.

“You know you don’t have to, right?” She asked, trying to make sure she wasn’t being a burden to him in any way.

“I want to though. You’re family so I’ll do what I can to help.”

 

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The countdown to when Razor would start at the akademiya whizzed by quickly. In that time Razor went on patrol tri-weekly and studied any extra things he could.

Currently he was reading a study written by a doctor in Liyue about the healing properties of the local plants there. Razor had gotten to know all the Sumeru plants well, but whatever Tighnari mixed up to help Collei didn’t have lasting effects.

Tighnari had mostly been using Sumeru native ingredients because they were easier and less costly to get, but in his free time Razor started to research to see if there was another plant that might be able to help.

He had only really looked at Liyue so far because it was only recently he started to look into different plants, but he was pretty sure there would be something to help. Even if it stalled the development just a little, he would take it.

He was going to cure Collei, then he would search for Lisa when he knew Collei was safe.