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“My, aren’t you a very expressive little one?”
Aether whips around just in time for Miko to put an arm around his shoulder. “Miko, what are you doing here?”
“Nothing, just taking a stroll in hope of finding some little inspiration. Didn’t expect to see one that quick,”
“Really?”
Miko giggles in her own way, removing her arm around him and walks idly in a circle. “Truth is I’ve been watching you for a while. My, aren’t you so enamored with that Alchemist though from the looks of it, does he not share the same feeling as yours?”
Aether falters before pouting, mentally. “Albedo?”
“You act so freely and very generously with your affections even after receiving so little in return.”
“That.. Albedo’s just not really expressive but he’s sweet in his own way!” he defended, looking at Albedo from the distance and still doesn't realize he’s walking alone. “He's a very caring person really.”
“Is that so?” Miko asked and the sharp sound of her sandals stopped at his side. “Have you confessed your feelings for him?”
Aether looks away suddenly, he can feel his cheeks and ears heating up as he coughs. “I mean not directly but only because I thought I’m already being very straightforward about it.”
He expected a teasing remark from Miko and was waiting for it when surprisingly she didn’t, that’s more startling.
“And? Has the little love of yours taken notice of it, what did he say?”
“I..” he trails and sighs. “I think he’s already aware, he’s very smart and I ran my mouth before thinking first around him.”
She hummed considerably and Aether felt her arm back around her shoulders again.
“Tell you, why don’t you drop by the shrine later after your little date?”
Aether tilted his head. “For what..?”
“To solve this problem of course, it breaks my heart to watch it continue and not flourish. I give a very helpful advise you know?” she winks and leaves confidently.
_____
Aether’s not really lying when he says that Albedo already picked up on his feelings but it doesn’t feel acknowledged.. yet. That’s what he wants to believe, hurts less than knowing Albedo is intentionally not addressing it. But looking back, Albedo doesn’t really shy away from his overly affections: he blushes, gets shy and embarrassed, there are even times that made him feel Albedo is seeing through it.. then he would pull away, as if to toy or tease him.
Paimon calls him pathetic for it and since then learned to distance herself whenever Albedo is in the same vicinity. Something about her not wanting to witness another episode of him flirting badly. Was it really that bad though?
“We should dine here.” Albedo’s voice breaks him out of his thoughts. “The menu is very interesting.”
Suddenly Aether looks up where they are and sees the stall where they sell ramen, sure enough there is an array of colorful ingredients and steaming hot noodles. Albedo walks to the cart and the vendor immediately entertains him, pointing at several dishes he might like.
“Our kitsune ramen is very popular! It’s what the customers always come back for obviously.” the man proudly announces. “We also serve different kinds of tea, depending on what you like of course! No alcohol though, we don’t sell those here.”
“What kind of tea?”
“Ah! Here.. we have genmaicha, oolong..”
Alarmed, Aether belatedly remembers he already made a reservation at Uyuu Restaurant for their lunch and already paid for it. Albedo looks like he’s already taken a liking to the stall and Aether feels conflicted. They’re already a few minutes behind schedule and the host is probably waiting for them.
“Aether?”
“Y-Yeah..” he felt the steam hot on his face. “Albedo,”
“What do you want to eat? They have quite a large menu here..”
“Albedo,” he calls again, getting close to his side. “Are you sure you want to eat here?”
“What do you mean?”
Aether realized that it sounds rather rude to ask in front of the vendor directly and he quickly feels embarrassed, waving his hands before misunderstanding arises when he sees the vendor frowns.
“I mean.. would street food be enough? There’s a restaurant near if you want..”
“Oh, I’m quite alright. I eat small portions and their servings cater to it.” Albedo explains, looking him in the eyes. “However if you want to eat somewhere then don’t feel bad leaving me here, we can meet up after. You’ll find me here the same.”
That's.. Aether knew Albedo doesn’t mean anything bad from it but it still stung. Especially when he’s really looking forward to it.
“Well?” Albedo prompted.
He excuses himself in the corner to cry— no not really, it takes only a second and Paimon pops out yawning and stretching. She seems happy at first until she sees Albedo in the distance.
“Are you hungry? I made a reservation at Uyuu Restaurant.” Aether spoke over her complaints and successfully shut it quickly. “I was planning to bring Albedo there but.. he wants to eat here and now I’m going to eat with him.”
Paimon sports a look of disgust at him that he ignores. “Paimon wants to complain but she’s getting food so she’ll be quiet.”
Aether tells her the name of their host and the reservation name, Paimon leaves with a happy wave and watches the stars trail after her until she disappears in the corner. He can only muster a longing look, watching his sweet fantasy collapse and dream of finally holding Albedo’s hand under the table.
Albedo is happily munching on a BBQ skewer when he returns, enthusiastically pointing at his own meal. The Alchemist is too adorable with those cheeks, Aether admitted defeat for the fourth time this day.
He watches him wipe the sauce off his lips and a pink tongue poking. “I took the liberty to order for you, tell me if you don’t like any,”
“Ah, these are fine..” Aether says, averting his gaze and almost poking his eyes with the hot air. He can feel Albedo’s gaze linger on his face and a shiver runs on his back.
“I’m glad.”
After the meal Albedo decided he still wanted to go on a stroll. They ended up buying some souvenirs, Albedo mostly, choosing an array of gifts to bring back to their friends in Mondstadt. Albedo wound up different styles of fans, umbrellas, light novels and hairpins when they left— all of it was paid for by him, Aether had no such thing as regret, it didn’t cost that much anyway. Besides, Albedo looked adorable carrying all the gifts in a bag embroidered with flowers and sakura petals. There was something.. to it.
“I hope you had a good day though honestly I think I’ve not shown enough of Inazuma,” Aether said as they stood outside the inn Albedo is staying at.
“You worry too much and think so little of yourself, I’d say you are overqualified to be a guide. I had a great time, Aether.”
“I’m glad.”
Albedo was quiet for a second, staring at him innocently. Aether almost squirmed, both heart and mind racing. Nothing happened today but he feels mentally and emotionally spent, though it still feels great to spend time with Albedo as it does not happen often.
“You don’t need to escort me back to the inn, you know, I can easily find my way back.” Albedo spoke after.
“I wanted to walk you back so it’s fine.”
“That’s chivalric of you, and how many people have been charmed by you doing it?”
“What? Of course none!” Aether almost stammered.
“Oh, so it’s only me then?”
Aether shut his mouth as he recalled his conversation with Miko. This is what he meant by Albedo being aware of his feelings, the Alchemist doesn’t only tease him but always tends to implicate something whenever they’re together. Aether settled with it as Albedo was a teased as he can be cheeky at times, though no one believed him when he said that. Not to mention that there was always a delay from the better part of his brain when Albedo gets flirty.
“I mean I do some commissions close to escorting someone back but it always includes fighting and protecting them so I think of it as being a body guard more.” he reasoned, refraining his hand as it itched to scratch his cheek awkwardly.
“I see..” Albedo said, then, “It’s getting quite late, I'm sure you are tired as well.”
He is, Aether admits to himself. He needs to check if Paimon overstayed and overeats the reservation he made since he only ordered for one person, Albedo and him always share a meal because the potions are always bigger than what Albedo could handle. Aether wouldn’t be surprised if they kick Paimon out yet it’s very unlikely.
“Kinda,” he tried to shrug. “But I still need to check on Paimon then go to the shrine after.”
“Shrine?”
“Ah.. yeah, unfortunately Miko wanted to see me so I’m going.” he doesn’t mean it, the first part, Aether thought. He’s curious what Miko is planning. “I’ll drop by to see what’s up then probably rest after.”
“.. sure. Careful on the way then.” Albedo said with a pause, then reached for his hand, squeezing. “See you again tomorrow?”
Albedo straightened his posture, withdrawing his hand with a reserved smile and went inside with a whisper of goodnight. Aether remained standing outside the inn, staring on the pavement and wondering if he’s been under a yokai’s illusion the entire time.. because Albedo looks entirely soft for him.
He didn’t hear the hurried footsteps coming. “Who’s blocking the entrance— Eh.. traveler?”
________________
Yae Miko was standing in front of the Sacred Sakura when he arrived at the shrine. He waited for her to finish, Aether was sure she already sensed him, considering she’s expecting him to come all the way. Once done, she twirled around with that easy smile on her.
“Finally here, little one. A bit late,”
Aether sigh. “I’m sorry, Paimon overeats and I need to put her to sleep.” He wished it was a lie but he can still hear Paimon loud snoring before leaving her to Tubby. “Uhm, so..”
“No need to rush, we have plenty of time.” she said and there’s the rhythmic click and clack of her sandals on the stone and wooden floor as she walks. “Now come here and give me your hand.”
Confused, Aether still extended his hand. Miko placed a piece of colorful paper on his palm, the pink, blue and purple looks playful. It reads Aisa Bathhouse.
“It’s a credit coupon for the Aisa Bathhouse, I’m sure you’ve walked past them numerous times. It’s a VIP sort of coupon, when in use, guaranteed no one will disturb you.” Miko explained though not sure what for exactly. “I’m giving that to you because we are going there.. Give me a few minutes to prepare.”
Her words settling in, Miko already left before Aether could ask why and what. She came back shortly, hurrying him to go back to Narukami Island.
“You could’ve told me we can just meet there,” Aether pouts.
“I can but where’s the effort in that? At least now I know you’ll do anything to woo that little Alchemist of yours. Isn’t it worth it?”
Aether shut his mouth and let her lead him, threading dangerous waters.
“Why are we going to the bathhouse—”
“No more questions. Just watch and learn, the oldest trick in the book but it proves to be still very effective. Come now.”
_______________
The next morning, Aether rushes to his and Albedo’s meeting spot for the day. They agreed near the bridge framed by two large sakura trees, covering the wooden bridge with its pink petals, some falling into the waters underneath. He was the first to get there, panting as he caught his breath and waited for the temperature of his body to come down. He wanted to arrive earlier than meeting time, to give himself some time to go over the places he wanted to bring Albedo to.
Just then a hand sneaks up from behind, picking a petal off his shoulder and pressing it to his cheeks. Albedo is standing before him when he turns, the Alchemist is still the same as yesterday but Aether does not stop admiring in awe secretly.
“Goodmorning, were you here long?” Albedo asks.
Aether feels feverish.
“No, just a few minutes. Ah.. how was your sleep?”
“I slept soundly thank you, it was comfortable and silent like you said. The staff are very respectful of my space and are strict about time.”
Aether breathes in relief. “I’m glad. Then, let’s head off.”
“So, where are you taking me today? Am I allowed to have a hint?”
Since Albedo confessed to skipping the breakfast at the inn, Aether decided their first destination was where they could eat. The owner of Shimura’s recognized him as they approached, Aether ended up ordering an egg roll and omelette rice for a serving of one after Albedo whispered they should just share. Aether swears it was not the delicious food that makes him blush, nor his burnt tongue after biting the food while steaming hot.
Before they finally go, Albedo insists on trying the dango milk. “I saw it yesterday but forgot to ask then it was too late to try. I doubt it would be bad for my stomach this early, you mentioned it was milk, yes?”
“If you’re sure.. just one, it might not look too much but it’s heavier in the stomach. I’ll finish what you can’t.”
Albedo smiles brightly. “Okay.”— In the end, Albedo did feel full after alternating between chewing and drinking. He gave the rest to Aether who finished it quickly.
“It might sound like a surprise but Ei, uh, the Raiden Shogun took a liking to it as well.” Aether mentioned in passing, throwing the empty bottle as he went back to Albedo’s side. He finds the Alchemist staring. “Something wrong?”
“Nothing,” Albedo said, though he was not convinced. “Do I remind you of some of your.. friends?”
Aether blinks, unsure what to answer. “Sorry, I just saw it and got instantly reminded. Did you enjoy it at least? The drink I mean..”
“It’s alright.”
It’s not.
For the first official stop, Aether decided to visit the Tenshukaku. Albedo gasps at that, his teal eyes betraying the rest of his face. Aether chuckled to see his reaction though he could understand the surprise. It’s basically where the Raiden Shogun resides yet Aether was sure that Ei often stayed either in her own plane or with Miko at the shrine. She already gave him permission to come and enter while Miko still handed her an official letter should a new guard question him.
“If you’re nervous we could take a different route to go there.” Aether suggested, grinning as they stopped short at the gate, craning their necks to look up. “I personally don’t show up to the guards to announce myself so I just climb and jump until I reach the top room.”
The look on Albedo’s face almost made him holler.
“That’s highly..”
“Illegal?” Aether continued and decided to tease. “But where’s the fun in doing it legally, Albedo.” He bit his lips to see the Alchemist’s face.
“I can’t go to jail, Jean would be troubled.”
“I can bail you out.” Aether offered. “I also know someone who can help.”
Albedo frowns. “Aether.. you were an accomplice.”
Aether snorted and chuckled on the way, taking Albedo by his arm. “Alright, let’s walk in. I wanted to give you full experience anyway. Let’s go.”
Working their way up was full of distractions, for Albedo anyway and Aether doesn’t feel the need to rush. So what if Albedo wanted to observe why there was a massive tree in the corner? He could ask to stay and sketch it and Aether would let him. Most of the guards and some officials didn’t pay them any attention. They reached the stairs.
Albedo stood his ground and looked up, and Aether noticed it. “The room behind that giant mask is where we’re going by the way, it’s kind of a large banquet hall with few tables but empty right now.”
“Would the Shogun be inside?”
Aether ponders. “Probaby but she won’t be bothered and she’s in another room. It was highly guarded so don’t worry, we won’t accidentally walk in on her.”
“It always astonishes me how you can casually say you were friends with someone as important as an archon.”
“.. does that bother you?”
“I’m just saying you never ceased to surprise me.”
The guard asked for their permit which confused Albedo until he handed them the letter written by Miko. It was immediately recognized and they were granted an entrance. A few minutes of walking on narrow stairs and they reached the spacious banquet room on top, the wind freely came in and went with each side wide and open.
He heard Albedo murmured to his side and let the Alchemist explore. “I hardly expect it to look like this,”
The extended platform outside is even more impressive in his opinion, it is a quiet spot with the view of the sea. It was also.. quite romantic, Aether was looking forward to it as he glanced at a wandering Albedo, observing the giant mask they saw from below.
While alone, he’d thought of what Miko said last night that she considered a tip to determine whether Albedo is romantically interested in him or not. Her advice was questionable and can only be summarized: make Albedo jealous. How? Aether had no idea, while Miko gave a detailed explanation, as detailed as her person would allow. Albedo is a hard person to read, he doesn’t know what he was thinking most of the time but it’s a thing he came to admire.
“Oh there’s someone at the terrace.. are we..” Albedo came to his side.
Aether catches the same Shogun’s army that he always sees whenever he drops by for a visit. “It’s fine, I know him. He’s not totally guarding the place, do you wanna go?”
“Yes,”
Aether mentally cheered when he didn’t see the reserved official that usually lingers around, wondering about the Kanjou Commissions. That means they’ve got the place for themselves..
Albedo reached the terrace first, hands on the railings while he peeks below. Aether slowly walks, liking and admiring how Albedo’s hair moves with the wind. His coat and little chains that had been dangling on his sides made small noises. Albedo had an easy and reserved smile when he stood by his side. Others would call it as Albedo always keeping his emotions in check, mindful and doesn’t indulge many but Aether would describe this look as tender, something Albedo had whenever something pleases him in a way that makes him in awe.
“There’s a small island down below, is there something on it?”
“Nothing, just a quiet spot and good spot for catching crabs when the water isn’t high.” he said, recalling things.
“From an experience I assume?” Albedo said with a teasing look.
“You can say that..”
Seirai Island always glows and is best to look at during the night, otherwise the violent color of lightning and clouds dulled and became lighter. Its intimidating appearance from the distance is what makes it easier to recognize. On the far right were Kannazuka and Yashiori Island, Aether would love to bring Albedo to Tsurumi Island purely to watch the Alchemist go intrigued by everything. He can only point out where it was located in the end.
“Maybe next time, you made it sound so extreme and interesting I would love to go there for research. I trust you know my taste very well.”
The mention of next time almost has his heart jumping at the prospect of going on a much longer vacation with Albedo.
“I would love to take the role of a tour guide again,” he said, smiling widely.
“Actually, I was thinking it could just be us—” Albedo’s voice drowned by arriving voices from the other end, almost echoing even when the place was not entirely sealed. A new group of officials was seen approaching the spot they were in, all of them sporting serious expressions like they were discussing a serious matter.
Both of them frown.
“Should we..” Albedo prompts while Aether thinks.
He shook his head, glancing behind. “I know a more quiet and private spot. Hold onto me,”
Aether can only hear Albedo’s little yelp, arms holding tightly around his shoulders as he carries the Alchemist in a bridal style before jumping off. They land on the grass below and Aether walks backwards until the shade of the extended terrace above covers them, shielding them from both the sun and everyone’s view.
Albedo breathes on his neck, causing the hairs on his nape and ears to stand. Albedo grips at his shoulders before pulling away, slightly winded with few strands of his hair escaping the slick braid.
“Goodness.. Aether,”
“Sorry..”
Albedo waves it off. “I’m quite alright, I’m not a fragile being. I was only startled, I wouldn’t mind getting a warning next time.”
Aether bit his lips. To compensate for the shock, he brought Albedo to the left side where a sakura tree blossoms and creates a small circle of cherry blossoms around it, some swept by the wind.
“No one can see us down here, three tree will cover for us.” he answered to Albedo’s questioning gaze.
“How convenient.”
It was, never mind asking him how he discovered it.
“Well, do you want to just leave or we can stay here for a while until the crowd leaves. I doubt they’ll stay longer, it’s not really a safe place to be talking about official matters.” Aether shrugged yet hoped they could stay. “Your choice.”
“I wanted to explore the rooms but I also don’t mind here.” Albedo said. “It’s quiet and we can be alone together.”
“Yeah..” Aether felt his heart thundered traitorously.
The birds could be heard singing, ones that reached up this high and probably few that discovered this place. Albedo seems to be appreciating the murmurs above and the sea, watching some of the birds in many colors flying away. The air smells fresher and cold out here and the sunlight doesn’t feel too warm on the skin.
“How was your visit to the shrine last night? Did you get home safe?” Albedo asks. “I was thinking about it.”
Why? Aether asked but it remained in his head as a voice. “It went pretty well.. turns out Miko just wanted me to come with her to a bathhouse.” he replied, filtering most of the conversation they shared. “I got back pretty late because of that but it was relaxing.”
“.. bathhouse?”
“Yes, the Aisa Bathhouse. We’ve walked past it several times, I’ve never been there before that’s why I didn’t include it. We should go there.. before you go back to Mondstadt.” Aether taps his pocket, waiting for the right time to whip out the other two VIP credit coupons that Miko gave to him.
“And how was it?” Albedo asks.
Aether fiddles with the edge of paper inside his pocket, looking away. “It was very nice, ah, the staff too are very.. unique. Miko introduced me to Mizuki, apparently she’s a major shareholder there. She joined us too in the end.”
Albedo coughs. “Pardon.. joined you, were you two in one room?”
“Mn? Of course, Miko specifically asked me to come with her. It will be weird if we’re separated, she wanted to talk to me about.. uh some things. Is there any problem?”
“Nothing, I only assume they would be more strict in rules.” Albedo almost whispered, picking off the petals next to him and releasing them on the wind. They flutter down on the waters below.
Rules? Then Aether realized what Albedo meant. “Oh, I think they do but from what I understand, so long it’s not with complete strangers then it’s fine? I’m not really sure.. it only makes sense to me because I’m with friends mostly.”
“You’re a very fair person to me. Strange sometimes.” Albedo said, quite cryptic.
“Is it bad?”
Albedo shook his head. “No, I just meant everyone seems the same to you. You treat them as special as the other ones, not favoring anyone.”
There was a pause and silence in between, it shouldn’t feel as awkward yet Aether did. There’s a tension he didn’t mean to create, but he has no idea where it spawned. Was it from something he said? Was Albedo offended or upset about something?
Then, “Do you just do it with anyone?” Albedo asked, rushed and sounded a bit petulant. Aether was taken aback and based from Albedo’s face, so was he. The Alchemist sighs. “I.. sorry. That came out wrong and rude. Just.. ignore me.”
“What do you mean?”
Albedo opts to silence at first. “Just this..”
“Have I made you upset?”
“.. no, can we just talk about other things?” Albedo asks, almost sounding like a plea. “Sorry.”
Aether wanted to press but decided against it, he doesn’t want to make things more awkward. They still have the rest of the day together and he would hate to make it tense as they go on a date, to his side at least.
The day passed in a blurry, Aether only remembered the coupons in his pockets when he and Albedo were walking the direction back to his inn. However, they pass a stall before Albedo grabs his arm, halting their steps as they move to the side and stand in front of..
The sakura tree on the left was a giveaway. “Traveler! And another rare guest, welcome!”
“I was thinking of trying,” Albedo said to him, looking up at the bathhouse’ logo.
Aether finally pulled up the coupons from his pocket. “I was actually trying to find the time to give this.”
It was an easy accommodation after that, Aether was glad Miko dragged him here, he knew what to do after entering. Once inside Albedo met Shion and Murasaki, as expected the Alchemist was intrigued by the duo, Aether could tell from the way Albedo’s lips tug or the interesting quirk of his brows.
They were guided inside a small room to change, then directed to take a short shower before finally dipping in the hot spring. Aether longed and yearned to finally see Albedo in one of the yukatas but it seems like his luck hasn’t been that good. Even when Albedo first visits for a festival, he hardly sees the Alchemist enjoying, just working with very short breaks in between. It was painful to watch the day end and nothing seems to progress.
Aether almost felt his neck snap when Albedo walks in with only a towel wrapped securely around his waist. His hair was tied in a low ponytail, bangs framing his face that was not able to be held by the band. It was.. a sight. Aether couldn’t remember the last time he’d seen Albedo in new attire other than his issued uniform— and it never fails to make him a stuttering man like a teenager talking to his crush. Albedo has a slender build, not too muscular but with very toned small muscles and stomach. He is endearing, the Alchemist looked delicate as a flower but Aether knew Albedo isn’t as fragile as one.
“You’ve tied your hair.” Albedo noticed, carefully dipping his feet first before lowering half of his body. Aether painfully bit the inside of his cheeks. “I don’t see you often changing your hairstyle.”
“And I don’t think I’ve seen you without this much clothes before.” he remarked while his heart sped up. Was it too obvious that he’s been watching Albedo ever since that’s why he notices easily?
To his relief, Albedo chuckled. “I don’t make it a habit of undressing carelessly nor do I want to do it when there’s someone else around. It’s my preference."
Aether gulps. “Am I the exception then? I’m honored..”
“I always make an exception for you. Am I not obvious enough?”
Not knowing what to answer, Aether lowered half of his face until to his nose and watched Albedo scoot closer to his side. He sits up straight again when their thighs and knees bump into each other, very warm under.
“This is relaxing.” Albedo murmured and leaned on his shoulder, breathing evenly. “Isn’t it suspicious how I’ve never tried a hot spring despite being in Dragonspine most of my time.”
“It.. it is, but I mean..” Aether tries to follow but the capacity of his brain reaches full.
Albedo didn’t pull away, they stayed leaning on each other for a good amount of time. Aether can see Albedo’s flushed cheeks as he finally moves away, looking drowsy with a lazy smile.
“It’s a rare sight to see you so relaxed.” Aether said after a pause, watching Albedo move sluggishly.
“Though I’m more relaxed and unguarded when you’re around? Your presence always brings me a sense of security, not to mention I knew I can rely on you should anything happen. As a result, I can’t help but be at my comfort.” Albedo spoke casually.
There was a sound of water splashing in the corner but Aether can only hear the sound of his heart.
“I’m happy then,” he said, stammering as if confessing. “That I gave that kind of.. effects on you.”
“If you only knew how much you affect me, you are practically a God in my world.”
Aether can’t help how his breath hitch at that. “...”
Nothing registers at first, only the slight disturbance of water on Albedo’s side and his silhouette suddenly towering over him. A warm lips pressed against his stunned and nervous ones. Albedo cradled his head and cheeks, pushing forward to deepen it and then pulled away to catch their breath. After a few startled moments, Aether chuckled and took it upon himself to pull Albedo back, this time kissing him properly and better.
Goosebumps and electricity shocks his skin at the new found feeling of pleasure kissing Albedo. Fingers trailed and caressed their jaws, cheek and grips at each other’s hair when they felt they weren’t close enough. It was his control slowly slipping, Aether found himself and Albedo on the corner, using the edge as an anchor to keep themselves locked and in place. The setting just set a buzz in his body, thrilled by the fact.
“That was good,” he whispered, lips tingling and breaths coming out ragged and short.
There’s a mischievous glint in Albedo’s eyes, tracing his lower lip again. “Only good?”
Aether surrendered. “The best.”
They shared another joyful kiss, much louder and full of biting than the first ones but it’s as sweet as it is. When they parted again, they lost count how many times it was, a soft and tender look was exchanged. It’s quiet but it spoke louder, affection visible and mirroring each other. Aether finds it more satisfying than he’d thought. He can almost cry at the confirmation that his feelings are in fact, not unrequited.
________________
It was past midnight when they left and walked hand in hand back to Albedo’s inn. One invitation and Aether doesn’t need more convincing, letting the Alchemist pull him up to his room. They’ve shared a few pecks and kisses, not able to keep their hands off each other. Aether felt immensely happy and dizzy at the same time. And it just got better the more they talk, laying beside each other.
“I am not jealous.” Albedo defended. “Just surprised.”
“It’s just bathing.”
“Bathing makes it sound like you are on each other, it’s a hot spring.” Albedo said. “Yeah you are bathing with several women.”
Aether can’t hide his grin. “You sure sound–”
There was an argument the same night but nothing Aether will call serious to the point of concern. It was mostly teasing. Albedo evaded many questions about being jealous, spouting more scientific words and dropping complicated paragraphs. He only stops when Aether admits that Miko gave him an advice to exactly do and make him jealous. It was hilarious.
“She found me when we were on a stroll the other day,” he recalled. “That’s when she told me to meet with her because, well, according to her she can’t bear to see my efforts not come to flourish.. her words.”
“That was interesting.” Albedo whispered, perched on his elbow. “Tell me everything.
______________
The remaining days of Albedo’s stay was spent taking a walk on more secluded areas of Inazuma. For what reason, it was only shared between him and his ever so trustworthy golden companion slash guide. The day of Albedo’s departure came, inevitable as they stood on the pier with the ship waiting for the Alchemist to go on board.
Paimon hovered at his side.
“.. why don’t Paimon and I just come back with you—”
“Hey!”
However, Albedo agrees. “It will certainly make my trip easier and comfortable should you come with me.”
Feigning a sigh, Aether only heard Paimon’s grumble and a weak grip on his braid as he suddenly hopped on the ship. “Where should I pay to come aboard?”