Mareira's Ahwa

Chapter Seven: "That's odd..."

Link to previous chapter: here

To read on ao3 click: here

Brief summary: The two academics hiding in the closet have been found…luckily for them, assistance has arrived! United by a shared goal, the newly formed group scouts for financial data…perhaps discovering things which none of them expected.

Warnings: none! Word count: 1507 Notes: I'm so sorry for the holdup on this one, loves :( past few months were crazy in a good way! writing this chapter with a mild cold lol so please take care of yourselves! be sure to hydrate, and really hope you enjoy this chapter <3 P.S.: I promise next one is also going to be interesting!! on with the story, hehe

“You call shoving both of us into a supply closet reasonable?”

“Since you’re so smart, I’d love to hear your brilliant solution”

“My solution would be having no solution at all. There’s nothing to solve”

“I swear, Alhaitham if you don’t quiet yourself this instant-”

Whispers came from a supply closet in the Akademiya Archive. How did the Scribe and an Akademiya professor end up in such a hiding spot? That’s a question you should probably ask the professor…

The two were so deep in dispute that their attention deviated completely from why they were hiding in the first place. By the time they realized that the previously faint footsteps were now right in front of the supply closet, it was too late. The door swung open.

Kaveh and Alhaitham squinted as light flooded their vision. Once their eyesight adjusted, they registered two figures staring back at them. Both with…very tall and unmistakably pointy ears? The figures observed the sight in front of them as well. Kaveh still had his hand placed on Alhaitham’s chest, unable to position himself differently in such a confined space.

“Should we ask what you are doing there, or save you the embarrassment?” - A voice spoke.

“Please don’t ask…this time, I don’t think I even want to know” - a second voice added.

“It does seem pretty cozy over there though, ‘Nari…”

“...”

“...”

“Go on…”

“I believe we could even say they’re still…in the closet”

Three pairs of eyes fell upon the one who just spoke.

“...What? None of you got it? Because they’re in a closet together and they’re both me-”

“THANK YOU, Cyno, for the very necessary elaboration. Now come on, get out of there” - Tighnari interrupted, before the situation became more chaotic. He reached out, lending both hands to help steady the figures climbing out from the confined space.

“Thank Archons it’s you two!” - Kaveh exclaimed while climbing out.

“Really though, how did you guys end up in the supply closet?”

Kaveh glanced at Alhaitham, who in response simply raised an eyebrow.

“Well, there were footsteps, and…we panicked?”

“Correction, Kaveh panicked. Apparently his stress response is shoving people into closets.”

“Listen, it's the best thing that came to my mind, okay? If you had any better solutions you should’ve told me from the start!” - Alhaitham simply scoffed in response. “But I have a better question…Cyno, Tighnari, how come both of you are in the archive after closing? How did you even get in…I thought we closed the door shut. It would’ve been horrible if someone got locked in for the night”

“Indeed…what are you two doing here after closing?”

Cyno glanced at Tighnari, and after receiving a nod spoke:

“I’m here alongside Tighnari”

“...”

“...”

“...”

“Cyno, you…may want to elaborate a bit” - the forest ranger spoke.

“I’ll just let you do the honors”

After a sigh, Tighnari obliged.

“Don’t have much of a choice. I am here on behalf of the forest rangers. We have been having issues with funding for the past couple months. As chief, I tried figuring things out in a diplomatic way, but the Akademiya funding committee refused to give any explanation. It seems like they’re trying to withhold information from us. So, I decided to figure things out on my own. And, well, Cyno…”

“I’m just tagging along”

“Cyno”

“Yes?”

“Aren’t you the…General Mahamatra?” - Alhaitham asked.

“I am” “...I thought you’re supposed to enforce law…”

“...what exactly is your point?”

Just a millisecond before responding, Alhaitham caught sight of Kaveh, who stood behind Cyno. The blonde stared right back, eyes narrow, brows low. Alhaitham got the hint.

“...Well then, seems the four of us have a shared goal”

“And what goal would that be, exactly?” - Cyno questioned.

“We are looking for any and all information tied to an individual under the name of Jabir Faris” - Alhaitham responded.

“That’s odd…” - Tighnari said. 

“What is?”

“Jabir Faris is. We were skimming through financial records, and Jabir Farisis a name we somehow saw on almost every page, despite him never having been registered as an official member of the Akademiya funding committee”

“That’s odd…I personally know him simply as an Akademiya professor” - Kaveh added.

“Is this by any chance the same Akademiya professor you mentioned when you knocked at our door on a random Tuesday night, falling onto the couch, claiming your career at the Akademiya is in shambles?” - Tighnari inquired.

“...there is…a chance of that, yes”

“Well, Kaveh, now I know why you were absent that Tuesday night”

“What is that supposed to mean?!”

“A heads up would have been appreciated”

“I am under no obligation to report such things to you!”

“It was your night to do the dishes, Kaveh. I woke up to a sink full of dirty dishes, and an obligation to make breakfast for both of us. A breakfast, which, may I remind you, you were very pleased to have when you came back later. So, as I previously said, a heads up next time would be appreciated”

“I can’t believe we’re doing this here, oh my Archons, FINE, fine, next time I will inform you in advance! Now can we PLEASE come back to the task at hand?”

“...”

“...”

“...right…so…” - Tighnari uttered, uncertain of how to react.

“So not only is that guy somehow tied to the funding committee despite not being a part of it, but he is also a threat to Kaveh’s Akademic career” - Cyno chimed in.

“And apparently all four of us are on the lookout for information regarding him”

“Which parts of the archive have you and Cyno checked so far?” - Kaveh asked

“We looked through all the aisles in the area behind the supply closet, but we didn’t find much. If there’s anything, it’s probably up ahead”

“Kaveh and I looked through most aisles in the middle, so the few aisles left are the ones which have the highest probability of containing the required documents. It’s best Kaveh and I check the ones in the end, while Cyno and you look through the ones up front” - Alhaitham chimed in.

“Are you really giving out instruc- ugh, nevermind”

“...sounds like a good approach! Let’s do that” - Tighnari agreed with the idea.

And with that, the four broke into pairs and walked separate ways.

Once out of earshot:

“Were you really giving out instructions to everyone just now?!” - Kaveh whispered to Alhaitham.

“Is there a problem with that?”

“Is there a- Gosh Alhaitham! I can’t believe I have to explain this to you. Yes! There IS a problem with you giving out random instructions to our friends who we came across two minutes ago!”

“Kaveh, if you have any suggestions which could be more effective, you are always welcome to share them. I suggested the most efficient solution. And from what I recall, it is in your interest for this task to be completed as quickly as possible”

“The formulation was absolutely unnecessary. It sounded much more like a boss telling off a subordinate than you trying to efficiently resolve a situation”

“I strongly suggest you save any recommendations you have for me regarding formulation for later, and focus on the task currently at hand”

Kaveh just rolled his eyes in response.

Five minutes. Ten. Thirty. The hands on the clock would have been moving agonizingly slow unless the four in the archive hadn’t been so deep in analysis. Document after document, they worked through the aisles. Each file was checked thoroughly, afterwards either being discarded and put back in its place, or put alongside other relevant documents. Though the “relevant” pile of documents was steadily increasing, no major breakthrough had yet been achieved.

“I think we have enough relevant documents to conclude the search, Kaveh”

“But I thought we were looking for something that would give us a strong lead, solid information…not just a set of documents with similar information”

“I expected you to be a bit more enthusiastic about this task being complete”

“Fine, fine. I’ll just skim through the last file”

“Suit yourself. I will take our findings and go let Cyno and Tighnari know we’re wrapping things up”

“Mmm - the committee declares - with the procedures further noted -” - Kaveh was already rushing through the first paragraphs of the file.

Alhaitham exited the aisle as Kaveh kept reading aloud to himself. Though he couldn’t say the task was completed to its full extent, the information gained from the files was satisfactory.

“Cyno? Tighnari?”

“Here!” - the two echoed.

Alhaitham clutched the documents firmly and made his way towards the sound.

“Kaveh and I just wrapped things up on our end. He is skimming through the last document. I believe we have the required data to go through with the evaluation we came here for. I also think it’s going to be beneficial for the forest rangers. I can take the documents which you-”

“ALHAITHAM!”

A panicked voice screamed from a few aisles ahead. The tone made Alhaitham freeze.

“ALHAITHAM COME HERE!”

Chapter Six: "A quick visit"

Link to previous chapter: here

To read on ao3 click: here

Brief summary: There's no better end to a long work like like a "quick" visit to the Akademiya Archive, right? Our two companions seemed to not have much of a choice. What was supposed to be a quick scan for necessary documents turns into an opportunity for the Kshahrewar professor to form a new unexpected new friendship. Yet duties can't be delayed...what could looking through a couple of documents possibly turn into?

Warnings: none! Word count: 2008 Notes: mmmmm we're getting into the nitty-gritty over here. if we go about this correctly, the next few chapters are going to be YUMMY mwueheheh as always, please don't forget to hydrate, and have a nice time reading <3 enjoy, loves!

By this time of day, the Akademiya was practically empty. As busy as scholars are, they seldom stay at their workplace this late. But today…the footsteps of a certain Scribe and a Professor echoed through the hallways.

“You asked for my help but didn't even brief me on the details or what you expect from me. Some scholar you are…”

“Is it really that unfair of me to expect the luminous Light of Kshahrewar to adapt on the go?”

“Yes, actually. A title like that says nothing about capabilities”

“Your students would claim otherwise”

“Would you please stop changing the subject and tell me what possessed you to drag me to the Akademiya Archive at six in the evening?”

“Kaveh. It's simply a quick search of a few documents in the archive. There is not a single student in the Akademiya who would be underqualified for this”

“Huh? So why didn't you take a student with you instead?!”

Alhaitham stopped in his tracks.

“We're here”

A tall door loomed over the disputing scholars. The ornaments varied in shape and size, intertwining into intricate patterns. One could marvel at its beauty for hours. But alas, at the beginning of the archive journey, Kaveh decided no time should be wasted. “Efficiency” was now his second name for the upcoming hours. Walking up to the door, he gently opened it. Keeping it ajar, he beckoned Alhaitham to enter.

The Akademiya Archive was a unique place. Unlike the House of Daena, it wasn't as flashy, or exquisite…but its atmosphere carried mystery. Aside from a few workplaces neatly placed in the corner, shelves of records filled the area of the archive completely. At first glance, the shelves may seem ordinary, but upon closer inspection, wooden embroidery comes into view. Though of age, all shelves are neat and perfectly looked after. Not a single speck of dust could be seen on their surfaces. The last rays of today's sunlight struggled to get in through the Archive’s large windows. The velvety green curtains would no longer be of use today.

A young woman was gathering her belongings at the reception desk, as excited as most to finish her workday. As soon as she heard the door open, her eyes fell upon the entrance.

“I apologize, the archive is about to close for the day. We resume work tomorrow at- oh! Alhaitham!”

“Good evening, Noor”

Alhaitham responded. Now it was Kaveh’s turn to greet the receptionist.

“Good afternoon, Ms…”

“Qadir! But please, call me Noor. Pleased to finally make your acquaintance, Kaveh!”

The woman enthusiastically stretched her hand out to greet her new connection.

“Oh!”

Kaveh happily mirrored, and the two shook hands.

“Do we know each other from somewhere?”

“Yes…and no” - the girl smiled mischievously.

“Ah…pardon?”

“Ahah, I'm just messing with you! I know your name. Alhaitham never misses a chance to talk about you!”

“Noor…” - The Scribe murmured, folding his hands in a defensive manner.

“Sorry sorry! To be fair though, Kaveh is a very recognizable individual. I have to admit, I'm a huge fan of your work, sir! Our class went on a field trip to the Palace of Alcazarzaray a couple of weeks ago, and oh Archons, never have I marveled over architecture as much as I did then. Your creations aren't simply buildings, they're the definition of art!”

“Ms. Qadir- ah, sorry, Noor, you flatter me too much. It'd be nothing without the investors who funded the projects and the construction teams who actually brought the projects to life”

“Nonsense! These projects wouldn't even exist without you!”

“Perhaps, but I-”

“Khm” - Alhaitham took it upon himself to interfere. “Kaveh, Noor is a Kshahrewar senior student. She works at the Archive as an intern but her primary focus is engineering” 

“Ah, I see…”

Guilt overtook the architect's conscience. He had always struggled with accrediting his own work, and yet…with a young, enthusiastic Kshahrewar student standing right in front of him…

“Thank you, Noor. Your admiration means a lot to me. I'll be waiting for you to dazzle the Akademiya with your creations even more than I did, in due time” - the architect gave the younger student an encouraging smile.

“Thank you sir” - the woman returned just as warm of a smile. “What can I help you two with?”

“We were hoping to have a look around the archive, a few documents are urgently required. But I see we came far too late”

“Indeed, just a few minutes before closing” - Noor frowned. “Urgent you say huh…”

For a couple moments, silence loomed over the three. Noor seemed to be deep in thought, racking her brain for a solution. Perhaps not the most ethical one…yet still, a solution.

“Okay look…there is one thing we could do…but I’m going to need both of you to be as careful as possible with the implementation of this”

“You have our word” - Alhaitham nodded reassuringly.

“Alright. Here’s what I could offer. My workday is complete, so the Archive is not open to visitors. As most staff, I typically leave the key with the security guard. However I could let her know that today the Scribe will be dropping it off”

“Plausible. Yet what if someone comes into the archive while we are looking for the required documents, and we don’t notice, accidentally locking them in the Archive for a whole night?”

“That won’t happen if you close the Archive from the inside as soon as I leave”

The two companions contemplated for a second.

“...that…actually works perfectly, Noor” - Alhaitham assessed.

“Brilliant solution! No wonder you’re a Kshahrewar student” - Kaveh beamed with pride. Noor just chuckled.

“It’s nothing, you two. Just be careful and make sure no one is condemned to ‘Night at the Archive’ by accident”

“We will take precautions such as locking the door as soon as you leave, and double checking when leaving ourselves”

“Good! Oh, and don't forget to record the file withdrawal in the registry over there”

Noor briefly pointed to a notebook at the edge of her workspace.

“Just use the previous entries as a reference, alright? You two will easily figure it out. Alright, I'm running extremely late, so I’ll be off! Very pleased to meet you, Kaveh, and best of luck looking for the documents, you two!”

The girl rushed to the exit, followed by the Scribe and professor.

“Thank you, Noor, have a nice evening!” - Kaveh attempted responding to the girl, who by now was halfway down the hall.

A faint “You too!” echoed back.

Alhaitham and Kaveh stood side by side, in silence.

“Since when do you talk about me to the receptionist of the Akademiya Archive?”

“Kaveh, I am a Scribe. The Akademiya Archive is my workspace, second only to my office. I always settle here if I finish work early and have to wait for you”

As he spoke, Alhaitham took the keys given to him by the receptionist, and firmly locked the Archive from the inside.

“So you come here regularly. You've probably already embarrassed me in front of Noor!”

“Yes. Out of all possible ways I could choose to spend my time at the Archive, my top pick would be discussing how badly you snore with a Kshahrewar student”

“Oh Archons, you told her that?!”

Alhaitham pocketed the keys, and began his way towards the Archive's records section.

“Come on, senior, we have a job to do”

“Hey don't dodge my question!”

“We're looking for any documents related to the Akademiya’s current finance distribution committee, as well as Jabir Faris”

“Alhaitham, this is exactly why people say you have the emotional range of a teaspoon, you can't just ignore people, and- wait, what did you just say?”

As Kaveh spoke, Alhaitham unfolded a slip of paper, previously placed in his pocket.

“We are looking for the first names Zainab, Khalil, Imran and the full name Jabir Faris”

“...Faris? Mr. Faris? The same Faris who was just in your office?”

“Correct”

Alhaitham walked up to Kaveh, and handed him the slip of paper with the recorded information. After all, the Scribe was the one who wrote the names on it, he would have no trouble remembering them. Kaveh glanced at the paper with confusion, then brought his gaze back to Alhaitham.

“What does he have to do with anything? I thought this would be connected to your work, hence the urgency” - Kaveh couldn't help but frown.

“It is”

“Urgent, or connected to your work?”

“Both”

“How exactly is it connected to your work then?”

“If you truly believe a one hour brief is necessary before we begin our task, who would a lowly Scribe such as I be to object. Let's start with understanding the internal ties Akademiya staff has with the finance distribution committee. The distribution happens quarterly, and it is monitored by-”

“Alright, alright! Point made, let's move”

Kaveh strutted past Alhaitham, who couldn't hide a faint but triumphant smile.

“Thought so”

The two companions set to work.

5 minutes…10…15…30…the hands of the clock steadily moved, while Kaveh and Alhaitham dove deep into documents. All recordings of financial distributions for the past year were thoroughly examined. Oddly enough, the same names kept standing out. Zainab, Khalil, Imran.

“Alhaitham?”

A voice echoed, seemingly a few aisles ahead.

“Yes?”

A couple footsteps later, Kaveh emerged, firmly holding a document in front.

“Half of all Akademiya funding somehow always goes to those three…though they do usually take on the primary projects, isn’t this a bit unusual?”

“That’s precisely what we are here to figure out”

“But what does Jabir have to do with the situation? We’re looking for-”

“Wait…footsteps”

“What?”

“Listen”

Kaveh hushed for a second and…met Alhaitham’s surprised gaze.

The two began disputing in a hush:

“What should we do? We’re not even supposed to be here in the first place!”

“I’d say whoever else is present isn’t supposed to be here either…”

“Well that’s not good at all…what if it’s someone who is trying to tamper with archive records? Even worse, what if they think we’re trying to tamper?! We’ll be done for!”

The footsteps grew closer, and closer.

“Kaveh, there would hardly any reason for anyone to suspect us of-”

In a panic, Kaveh yanked Alhaitham’s hand, and dragged both of them to the nearest thing with doors…a supply closet. Hurriedly, he opened it, and despite Alhaitham’s protests, shoved him into the hiding spot, jumping in himself afterwards. Kaveh shut the doors, and only a small gap was left to keep an eye on the World outside of the cramped storage space.

“Kaveh, what reason did you have for-”

Before the speaker could continue, Kaveh firmly put a hand to his mouth, muffling the sound.

“Not. a word.” - the blonde instructed sternly.

Alhaitham just sighed.

Footsteps reached the aisle and came to a stop, seemingly scanning surroundings.

The supply closet was small in size, evidently not made with the purpose of hiding two adults in it. Kaveh pulled back his hand from Alhaitham’s mouth, trying to move it to a more comfortable angle, but…his elbow hit the side of the closet.

“Ow…” - the blond winced. With no space to adjust, Kaveh let his hand rest on Alhaitham’s chest, giving up on trying to move it.

“How typical of you to hush me, then make a racket yourself” - Alhaitham whispered. Kaveh didn’t need proper lighting to feel the eyeroll that went along with that phrase.

“Oh so I’m just supposed to suffer in silence?!” - Kaveh whispered back

“Since it was your initiative to hide, ideally, yes”

“My idea was absolutely reasonable, thank you very much!”

“You call shoving both of us into a supply closet reasonable?”

Deep in dispute, the two failed to hear the sound of footsteps getting closer.

“Since you’re so smart, I’d love to hear your brilliant solution”

“My solution would be having no solution at all. There’s nothing to solve”

“I swear, Alhaitham if you don’t quiet yourself this instant-”

Chapter Five: "Wrong side of the doorknob"

Link to previous chapter: here

To read on ao3 click: here

Brief summary: To say that the Scribe's day had been chaotic would be an understatement. After a tense interaction in his colleague's lecture hall, he peacefully resides in his office, tending to regular responsibilities. Yet it seems the Archons do not wish to grant him peace just yet...

Warnings: none! Word count: 1758 Notes: hi loves! hope you enjoy this new chapter hehe super excited for the next few ones AAHHHH don't forget to hydrate, and thank you lots for reading <3 on with the story!

The sound of a pen scribbling echoed through the quiet office. Typically, by this time, the Scribe would be wrapping up for the day. Gathering his belongings, locking his office, and heading home. However, today the Scribe’s workload seemed to include not only saving his companion from an intrusive colleague, but also a never-ending stream of tasks. Alas, today they also included the true bane of his existence: “overseeing financial records”. And, at this moment, a slight issue keeps showing up.

*sigh*

The Scribe abandoned his pen, opting for a pencil instead.

“Nearly half of the general fund reserve circles back to…Zainab…Khalil…and…Imran…”

Speaking out loud, Alhaitham circled each single name. The people mentioned were not only Akademiya staff, but also highly esteemed individuals within it.

Alhaitham is not the fondest of numbers, unlike his architect roommate. His speciality lies in linguistics, and Archons know who decided it was brilliant to task a former Haravatat student with overseeing essential financial data. But, luckily for the Akademiya, Alhaitham knew just enough to get by…and just enough to catch any mishaps. Though, as of now, he’s uncertain whether he should call his findings a mishap or not.

It’s barely a surprise that Akademiya funding strongly ties back to the three individuals previously listed. High ranking positions entail overseeing a wide array of projects. But…something about almost half of the funding tying back to just these three people didn’t sit right with the Scribe. Was it that he had heard their names before? Perhaps he was simply trying to find a problem where there wasn’t one…

A knock broke the hours of silence in the office.

“Please enter”

The door creaked as it opened, and Alhaitham reminded himself of the necessity to fix it. He believed the sound to be far too irritable. Without taking his eyes off the financial records in front of him, he greeted the visitor:

“Kaveh, I thought I let you know formerly that I’ll be finished 15 minutes later than expected today, did you really have to-”

“Ahem”

The voice sounded nothing like Kaveh and Alhaitham's focus immediately shifted. Leisurely, he took his glasses off, and folded his hands.

“Mr Faris”

“Good evening” - the visitor responded.

“It was good indeed”

“Are you always this rude to colleagues?”

“Considering you and I have barely any professional affiliation, I would withhold from considering us colleagues”

Jabir made his way to the chair in front of the Scribe’s desk, and comfortably seated himself. Alhaitham let the audacious action unfold.

“Akademiya policy requires you to schedule an appointment if you wish to consult the Scribe. Preferably before entering their office.”

“I promise you I am well aware of that”

“Then I suppose you are also aware of the fact that you just broke Akademiya policy”

“You must realize by now: I’m not here on a professional matter”

The Scribe simply stared in response. After a minute of silence:

“Are you going to continue or did you enter my office purely to disrupt my duties?”

“You embarrassed me quite a bit in front of Kaveh’s students today”

Alhaitham simply nodded.

“...nothing to say for yourself? No excuse or apology?”

The Scribe slowly shook his head.

“Interesting. You take pride in your behavior, I see”

“Lying about being acquainted with a Sage was quite a bold move, even for you, Mr. Faris”

“Perhaps”

Silence loomed over the room for a moment.

“You know, I read a few transcripts of past Akademiya projects…I really admire Kaveh’s and your work”

What a peculiar deviation from the original topic.

“It’s truly a shame it ended so abruptly. What was the cause…ah, I always forget such details…clashing ideals…if I recall correctly?”

Alhaitham stared back at the one speaking.

“The project held much potential, truly! The Akademiya poured a lot of resources into it. So unfortunate that such a valuable collaboration ended unprofessionally, don’t you think?”

“I think your personal life must be quite dull for you to end up at the Scribe’s office discussing other individuals’ projects”

“Alhaitham. Scribe of the Akademiya. You must be quite familiar with this institution’s regulations and policies.”

“That would be a rhetorical statement, Mr. Faris”

“Tell me, how seriously do you think the Akademiya would treat an accusation of academic misconduct, if the one being accused would be…let’s say…the former Grand Sage? Current Scribe of the Akademiya?”

Alhaitham took a few seconds to process what was being said.

Realization dawned.

“You have a history of jeopardizing careers, Alhaitham. One more attempt to jeopardize mine…and an anonymous tip about a certain Scribe’s former misconduct will be delivered to the Sages of the Akademiya.” Jabir stood up, and straightened his clothes. ”I may have lied about being acquainted with Mr. Ammari, but I assure you, I have worked long enough at the Akademiya to have respectable connections.”

The intruder spun around, and gracefully made his way to the exit. Jabir reached for the doorknob, and was just about to turn it, but…paused.

“One more thing, Scribe”. The title was uttered with pure spite. Glancing back, Mr. Faris continued. “If Kaveh hears a single word about this…I can guarantee that the anonymous tip to the Sages will be delivered before sunset. If you value your career even the slightest bit, I would recomm- ouch!”

Before Jabir could finish his sentence, the office door suddenly burst open. Jabir's hand, still wrapped around the doorknob, was shoved back into his stomach, making him stumble backwards.

Alhaitham winced at the creak of the latches, yelp of pain, and the all too familiar raised voice announcing its entry: “Alhaitham, do you have any idea how long I’ve been waiting for-”

The new visitor paused. His eyes scanned over the surroundings, and came across a hunched over Jabir with a hand to his stomach. Realization came.

“Oh Archons…oh no, no, Mr. Faris…I am so sorry, I didn’t expect the Scribe to have a visitor…”

“It’s- it’s alright…I was stan- kha- I was standing too…close to the door…” - Jabir attempted to respond, but all air was knocked out of his stomach. After all, as a seasoned claymore user, Kaveh's strength far exceeded the average…

Regaining a bit of composure and proper breathing, Jabir fixed his posture.

“Ahem. I…I was heading out anyway. Care to join me for a coffee, Kaveh?”

Any concern previously noticeable on Kaveh's face was gone in a matter of milliseconds. Doorknob to stomach or not, Jabir is…still Jabir.

“…I need to prepare multiple tests for my students by Thursday morning. I’ll have to pass”

“Suit yourself”

And with that, Jabir finally exited. Neither of the two left in the office spoke until the footsteps echoing in the hallway grew soft and far.

“What in Teyvat was that about?”  - Kaveh broke the silence.

“I suggest you consider how much you value your peace, and whether it’s really a worthy exchange just for the satisfaction of your newfound curiosity”

“Just because you studied linguistics doesn’t mean you need to speak in riddles, Alhaitham.”

“...”

“...Alhaitham?”

The sound of scribbling filled the office again.

“…Zai-nab…Kha-lil…Im-ran…and…Jabir…Faris…” - Alhaitham mumbled out loud while scribbling things down.

“You know what, nevermind” - Kaveh crossed his arms. ”I don’t think I want to know what happened in the few seconds before I entered.”

A sharp inhale was uttered by Alhaitham. His eyes widened, brows shot up, and…furious scribbling began. Words, lines, arrows, all elements made their way onto the paper. In a matter of minutes, writing coated multiple pages of the notebook. A number here, a line there, just a few finishing touches and…

“Archons, please tell me now that you’re done?”

In response, Alhaitham closed his notebook, placed the pencil down, and leaned back with a sigh. He eyed down the person in front of him: the ruby gaze, shoulders, collar. Our observer’s gaze locked on the accessory a little bit below his visitor’s neck.

“I’m the one who worked overtime, but somehow you seem to be the more annoyed one”

“You said fifteen minutes later. Fifteen! Do you want to know just how long it’s actually been?”

“An hour and twelve min-”

“AN HOUR AND TWELVE MINUTES!” - Kaveh exclaimed, keeping his tone in check. Living with Alhaitham had helped him develop many interesting skills…including the skill of using a very specific volume of speech. One that didn’t particularly make his roommate wince out of discomfort, but certainly translated seriousness.

“I apologize for making you wait, Kaveh”

“Oh don’t use any more excuses with- …wait what?”

“I apologize for making you wait. I am aware the time span turned out significantly longer than approximated…"

“…it did”

Alhaitham took a slip of paper, folded it in half, and…

“...and I believe it’s about to become longer still”

“What?! You have got to be kidding me!”

“This time, the option of observing from the sidelines is not going to be available for you”

Kaveh narrowed his eyes, suspicion evident.

“And that is because…”

“I’m not going to be finished until eight in the evening”

“Aren’t you supposed to be the one responsible for dinner tonight?”

“I am. Which is why I request your assistance. Unless, of course, you don’t mind dinner at midnight”

“And my involvement is supposed to magically make the task complete earlier?”

“Precisely”

The Scribe stood up, and did a lazy stretch. The feeling of standing after hours at a desk felt blissful. Alhaitham made his way to the exit, briefly passing by his companion. Pausing at the doorway, he slid his hand into his pocket, in the search of something.

*clink clank*

Triumphantly, he took the object out. It was a keychain.

The two companions locked gazes again, and stayed silent for a brief moment.

“Kaveh, I need to lock the office if no one is going to be here”

After a second of contemplation, Kaveh stepped out of the office.

*click click*

Satisfied with his office being securely shut, Alhaitham turned around, and began walking down the hall. After a few moments, he realized he didn’t hear a pair of footsteps following him. When he spun around to check, he found an unamused Kaveh staring right back at him.

“You know, senior, when you were younger you were the biggest fan of scholarly pursuits”

Kaveh scoffed.

“Where’s your academic spirit now, huh?”

A few seconds of thought, and Kaveh reluctantly made his way to Alhaitham’s side. The two began their walk down the endless hallways of the Akademiya.

“Where are we going anyways, what is it that’s so urgent?”

first time posting art on Tumblr, kinda nervous 👉 👈

sidenote: finished the Fontaine archon quest a while ago and oh my Lord I am a Furina fan now

If you like this art, I have an ig art acc: maegicart

Would love love love to see you there 🫶

Chapter Four: "Fontanian Drama"

Link to previous chapter: here

To read on ao3 click: here

Warnings: none! Word count: 2315 Notes: RAAAAH NEW CHAPTER!!! guys I'm not in uni yet is this even uni coded help anyways, loves, have a nice read & don't forget to stay hydrated ON WITH THE STORY

Lunch was a chaotic time of the day for the Akademiya. Swarms of people navigated the halls of the grand building. Some were heading to a cafe or food stall nearby. Others made their way to a preferred colleagues' offices, opting to have lunch with a dear companion. Kaveh was…neither of the two. You see, our professor is not called the “Light of Ksharewar” without reason. People adored his company, students and staff members alike. Being favored by students is typically a positive outcome for a professor, but in Kaveh’s case, it…may have gone a bit overboard. Especially with exams just around the corner. 

The students pulled up chairs, took their lunches out, and placed them on their laps. They huddled around Kaveh’s desk, basking in their professor's company, eager to discuss the all-time favorite topics of the professor's “lunch circle”, or attempt to pry for any guidance regarding the upcoming exams.

Meanwhile Kaveh was waiting for Alhaitham to bring his lunch. Of course, he disliked the general idea of making someone deliver his lunch by hand. But…Alhaitham never asked for Kaveh’s approval. One day the Scribe simply showed up, greeted the students lurking around his roommate’s desk, placed a bag on it, and departed just as quickly as he had arrived. Since that day, it turned into their regular routine. But today…Alhaitham was suspiciously late.

Though his stomach grumbled, Kaveh did his best to keep properly interacting with the students. Answering questions, sharing scholarly advice, discussing the latest lecture. Despite his hunger, the professor truly seemed to be enjoying his time. That is until…

“Kaveh! There you are!”

The chatter of the “lunch circle” halted. A figure stood in the doorway.

“Mr. Faris.”

“I finally uncovered your lunch spot!”

*if only you could cover it back up. I have about as much patience on an empty stomach as there is water in the desert* - Kaveh thought to himself. But he was not about to initiate confrontation with so many eyes on him.

“Yes, professor. You have indeed”

The figure stepped into the lecture hall.

“Mind if I join your little circle?” - were the only words uttered, before the visitor grabbed a chair, and pulled into the spot nearest to Kaveh. Certainly, the question was rhetorical…

Students glanced at each other, uncertain of how to respond. After all, the chatter had halted the second Jabir Faris stepped foot into the lecture hall.

“Khm” - Kaveh tested his voice out. - “So, where were we…ah, yes, Lina. You asked about contextual harmony and its relevance to the upcoming exams”

“Oh, yes sir!”

“Alright…I cannot really share the details…” - Kaveh rested his chin on the palm of his hand, choosing the words about to be said carefully - “...but…I do believe that contrary to the rumors amongst staff, the upcoming exam isn’t going to have any questions relevant to it”

“Really? But…we went through it this semester…how come it’s not going to be on the exam?”

“Well, it’s far too simple of a topic to put on such a-”

“From what I’ve heard, it’s actually going to be one of the examination topics” - Jabir interrupted the speaker, earning glances from the students. Despite the attention, he simply kept eating his lunch, as if he hadn’t just taken the podium. - “I’ve talked to the current Sage of the Kshahrewar darshan a couple of days ago. He let a few words slip about the upcoming examinations. Apparently they decided to include even simple topics this year”

The students looked at each other, taken aback. This was new…

“Mr. Faris, do you mean to tell us that you’re close enough to the Sage of Kshahrewar for them to directly share confidential examination materials with you?”

“...Well, I- yes. As a matter of fact I am”

“Oh how interesting! Well then passing on a message for me wouldn’t be an issue, right? Tell the Sage to come by my office tomorrow at noon. My class and I would be thrilled to ask a few questions!”

“Oh…well the Sage has business to tend to tomorrow at noon, so I doubt that’d be possible”

“Really, Mr. Faris? But I thought noon is lunch break time for the Akademiya?”

The tension rose. Students switched from asking questions to observing the confrontation between their professors. A Sage being occupied during lunch time? That was really unusual. Even more unusual were Jabir's claims about being close to an Akademiya Sage…

“The Sages actually aren’t limited by the regular Akademiya schedules, if you didn’t know, professor Kaveh. Their schedules differ from-”

“Am I late to your lunch circle, Kaveh?” -  another voice spoke, and all eyes immediately turned to observe. Typically so much attention would bother Alhaitham. But once he caught sight of Jabir next to Kaveh, any potential discomfort left his body.

Kaveh raised an eyebrow. Since when did they agree to refer to each other on a first name basis in front of students and staff?

“Oh, Alhaitham. You are delayed, but not late. Actually, Mr. Faris over here was just telling us about his affiliation with the Kshahrewar Sage! Isn’t that fascinating?”

The Scribe started making his way towards the lunch circle.

“Fascinating indeed. I’ve heard the Kshahrewar Sage is quite a private person”

Alhaitham carefully placed Kaveh’s lunch in front of him.

“Ha, one could say the same about our Akademiya’s Scribe, don’t you think?” - Jabir retorted.

“I never claimed otherwise” - Alhaitham responded. - “I have some free time today, so I’ll be joining your discussion. If, of course, it wouldn’t be an issue”

A whisper took over the students. Of course, the Scribe brought their professors lunch almost daily. Yet he had never directly joined them for lunch…what an odd discussion this is turning into.

Jabir looked mildly annoyed, while Kaveh welcomed the addition to the circle.

“Please do. Here, there’s a spare chair here”

The professor stood up, and dragged a chair near the spot he was previously seated at. However once the task was complete, Alhaitham went for Kaveh’s former spot. Kaveh accepted the decision and sat down next to him. The three staff members now sat in the following order: Jabir, Alhaitham, Kaveh.

“So, Mr. Faris- oh, excuse me. Jabir. I forgot we have switched to a first name basis”

“...”

“How is Hakeem doing?”

“How is…what?”

“You seem unfamiliar with the name”

“It doesn’t quite ring a bell” - Jabir smirked with irritation.

“You claim to be acquainted with the Kshahrewar Sage, yet you aren’t familiar with his first name?”

“Oh, I- excuse me for my mistake. I have a relative with the same name, and am far too used to referring to the Sage by his last name”

The students murmured between themselves. How is it possible to not know the first name of the person you’re acquainted with!

“It’s quite alright. So, how is Hakeem doing? I haven’t heard from him in a while”

“He is quite alright. Tending to Sumeru business as usual. Perhaps his workload is why you haven’t heard from him”

“Interesting. Sage Hakeem departed from Sumeru a few days ago.”

“He…he did?””

“Yes, indeed. For diplomatic purposes. You sound surprised by the information, Mr. Faris”

“Not at all! I’m aware Mr. Ammari has left for Inazuma as of recent”

“Really?”

“Yes” “His latest letter to me was sent from Mondstat”

Silence took over the lecture hall. What started as a discussion circle was turning into a whole Fontanian drama. If tensions were simply high before, now they hovered beyond the false sky…

“You’re…acquainted with Mr. Ammari? Personally?”

“Acquainted would be a strong word. Our positions create a foundation for regular work contact. Any updates regarding diplomatic relations are passed over from him to me. I am the Scribe of the Akademiya after all, Mr. Faris. Keeping track of such things is perhaps my primary responsibility”

If a pin fell to the floor, the whole hall would hear its echo. Spectators' eyes went from Mr. Faris, to the Scribe, back to Mr. Faris again. Was Mr. Faris lying about being acquainted with a Sage? And did this mean that their professor was really telling them the truth about the exam topics?

All Jabir could do was keep his gaze glued to his lunch and finish it as quickly as possible. Another second in this damned lecture room, and the students would think he is a complete fraud. His initial intention was to impress Kaveh and his students with the connections he had. But once The Scribe joined the lie went way beyond what he had planned for. How in Teyvat was he supposed to know that Scribe was personally acquainted with the Sage?

While Jabir stuffed his mouth with food, Alhaitham glanced to his right.

“You haven’t opened your lunch”

“oh…I figure I haven’t. I was too invested in listening”

Kaveh reached out to the box with food which Alhaitham just brought, but his delivery person seemed to be faster. Reaching out, he slid the box closer to him. One by one, he undid the packaging of the fatteh, tabouleh, and pita bread. Upon completion, he gently slid the unpackaged lunch to its rightful owner.

“Oh…thank you”

Not one person dared speak a word during the whole procedure, but students, yet again, looked at each other, with surprised expressions.

The professor finally received his long awaited food. As he enjoyed every single bite, his listeners also got a chance to finish the food in front them. After all, the discussion which just took place stole their attention from what the break was actually for. A calm atmosphere finally triumphed over the former tension.

“Aren’t you going to eat?”

“I’m not hungry”

“Nonsense”

A few students looked up from their lunch. Jabir also side-eyed the two conversing. Thankfully his mouth was still busy eating for him to jump in.

“So you’re just going to skip lunch?”

“My energy expenditure is considerably smaller than yours. I prefer to have my food closer to evening”

“Well that’s a bold-faced lie. On your days off you always add lunch to your schedule”

“My schedule on days off greatly differs from my work schedule”

“Don’t humor me. Here, I’m way too full to continue”

Kaveh slid the box with food in front of his companion.

Surprised glances were yet again exchanged between students.

The Scribe stared at the food in front of him for a few seconds, afterwards glancing to his right. There, his gaze was met with his companion already looking at him. The stern expression he got basically meant “finish the food or I finish you once we get home”. Alhaitham reluctantly did as he was told.

Meanwhile Jabir hastily stood up, and gathered the leftover wrappings from his lunch. Bidding everyone a quick farewell, he exited the lecture room. It is safe to say this was his first, and perhaps the last, attempt to join the discussion circle. Kaveh trailed the runaway professor with his eyes, until he was out of sight, afterwards glancing back to Alhaitham, who was sitting nearby, still tasked with finishing the leftover lunch. One could easily miss the tiny hint of a grin which faded into his expression.

With Jabir’s exit, the lecture hall regained some sense of its previous comfort.

“Professor?”

“Yes, Lina?”

“This may be a bit personal to ask, but…”

“...but?”

“Do you and the Scribe meet up for lunch on days off?”

“Oh, well-”

“It’s just that…you said he always has lunch on his days off. I assumed you knew because you typically meet up for it…right?”

“No! Well I- I mean technically…”

He glanced at Lina. The girl was curious, she clearly meant no harm…What’s the point of keeping it a secret anymore?

“I apologize if the question was intrusi-”

“No no, there’s…there’s no need to apologize, Lina. Alhaitham and I…”

Momentarily, Kaveh glanced at The Scribe, as if asking for him to approve of what he was about to say. His companion simply stared back. Seems Lina was not the only curious one here…

Taking a deep breath in, Kaveh made his decision.

“Since Alhaitham and I live together…yes, we…we do have our lunch together as well”

The invested listeners weren't able to suppress a few gasps.

“Oh! I never knew that!”

“yes, we actually…lived together for some time during our Akademiya years”

“Really?! So you two know each other from the time you were students!”

“Yes, I’d say so. Since Alhaitham and I were junior and senior at the Akademiya. A project we were working on together required a lot of contribution from both of us. In its turn, the Akademiya ended up providing property for the project's purposes. But it was closer to a research center, really”

“You must know each other really well then?”

Kaveh glanced at Alhaitham, who was at the last few bites of his food.

“…I guess so”

“Professor?” - another student spoke.

“Yes, Alim?”

“Does that mean you’re older than Scribe Alhaitham?”

“He is the older one, yes” - Alhaitham answered instead, food finally finished.

“But that doesn’t mean he has permission to call me a junior any longer”

Kaveh rolled his eyes.

“With how irresponsibly you skip lunch, I think I have full right to call you whatever I want”

“Call me departing”

Alhaitham gathered the leftover wrappings from the food and placed them in a bag.

“Oh, and Kaveh?”

“Yes?”

The Scribe reached into his pocket.

“You forgot your key again”

He placed the forgotten item on the desk.

“Next time you'll have to come to my office yourself to retrieve it”

And with that, Alhaitham made his way out of the lecture room.

“...well he seems…fun to be around?” - Alim commented.

Kaveh could only sigh.

“He's as fun as I am a ballerina…”

“You know, I could actually picture that” - Lina added.

Chapter Three: "Contrary To Popular Belief..."

Link to previous chapter: here

To read on ao3 click: here

Warnings: none! Word count: 1933 Notes: I think these two are the most hilarious ever. their bickering is so much fun to write, like actually. super excited for further chapters aaahhhh. CAN'T WAIT FOR NEXT KAVEH JABIR ALHAITHAM INTERACTION. anyways LET'S GOOOO

Aromas of freshly baked pastries enveloped Kaveh’s senses. People rushed around him, focused and unshaken. Each individual had their own duties to tend to, their own goods to purchase. Some were looking for vegetables, others required materials for baking…The atmosphere was something akin to what he felt as a child, accompanying his mother to the market. The two always ran errands together, carefully picking goods, each choice individually examined by both mother and son. A sense of familiarity washed over him.

Turning around, he scanned the perimeter, taking note of the person beside him.

“Just two will suffice” - the monotone voice spoke.

Alhaitham…

*ah! so we are at the Grand Bazaar, buying groceries!*

“Thank you”

“oh- have a nice day, Karim, till next week!” - Kaveh tuned into the conversation, adding to his companions' farewell and broadly smiling. After all, he had been familiar with Karim for over a couple years. Karim was Kaveh’s go-to fruit vendor. He always throws in a couple zaytun peaches free of charge, even when Alhaitham is the one getting the fruits.

“Hey!” - Kaveh exclaimed, making Alhaitham stop and glance back. “Don’t forget to wish Karim a good day next time! I don’t want you ruining my reputation around the bazaar!”

Kaveh expected a snark remark in response, or perhaps a scoff. Alhaitham’s expression was faint and hard to read but…was he…smiling?

“Hm, alright then”

...what?...

The exchange was far too simple and uncomplicated, at least in Kaveh’s understanding. Of course, recently, their relationship experienced significant improvement. The amount of conflicts decreased noticeably. Perhaps the effort and compassion both sides were putting in was worth it. The calmer dynamic was one that Kaveh really cherished. And yet…the current interaction felt…different.

Alhaitham walked up to a very perplexed architect, and gently took his hand, leading the way to the next vendor. All Kaveh could do was glance at their intertwined hands and follow, trying his best to pay the warm feeling settling in his chest no mind.

“We’re going to be late for Nilou’s performance if you decide to imitate a statue by just standing there”

“I- yes…Nilou’s performance…”

“Next on the list are padisarahs. You wanted to gift some to Nilou on stage after her dance. Would that be correct?”

“...”

“Kaveh?”

“Kaveh…you’re going to be late for work…”

A gentle shake rattled the blonde half awake.

“mmm...padisarahs…we need…to…huh…what? work?”

Pleased with his efforts, Alhaitham retraced his hand from Kaveh's shoulder. Retrieving him from dreamland proved to be quite troubling today, so a final resort of lightly shaking him awake had to be utilized.

“Padisarahs are typically perceived as a symbol of prosperity, childlike wonder, and love. Though I’m not one for symbolism, I’d say they are a positive sign”

Alhaitham lectured, making his way back to the kitchen, preoccupied with something.

“mmm” - the architect rustled on the divan, stretching. He slowly let his eyes open and lounged around, adjusting to daytime.

*The Grand Bazaar…fruit vendor…Nilou’s performance…padisarahs…Alhaitham and I…holding hands…Alhaitham…and I…holding…hands…ALHAITHAM AND I HOLDING HANDS?!?!!!*

In a panic, the architect recollected what he could of his dream. Dreaming was certainly not rare for him, no no. On the contrary. A creative mind gets no rest, not even in sleep. Kaveh dreamt almost nightly. He dreamt of palaces, mythical creatures, things he would assure you not even his artistry could give justice to. Sometimes he dreamt of friends, loved ones, acquaintances. 

Today's dream was, in all honesty, far from the first one to contain Alhaitham. After all, the two had known each other for years and years. When you are acquainted with a person for so long, it's inevitable to meet them once or twice in dreamland. Hence Alhaitham being the subject of today's dream was not what concerned the architect. It was the role he played. It was the picture of their hands intertwined which ruffled our dear Kaveh's feathers, to say the least.

A face emerged from the kitchen doorway, interrupting Kaveh's panicking thoughts.

“I prepared some Fetteh if you want any before you depart for work”

“mmm…thank you…” - Kaveh responded. A yawn escaped, making him cover his mouth.

Alhaitham rested against the doorway, arms crossed. He observed his roommate, before decidedly asking.

“Waking you up took quite a bit of effort. I assume you were in deep sleep?”

“A- yes, I…I guess so”

“The dream you had must have been quite compelling then”

The image of his and Alhaitham’s hands intertwined invaded Kaveh’s mind once again.

*...well if that is what you mean by compelling…*

“It was…comforting, I’d say”

“Hm. Unique choices you have for comfort, then, senior”

“I just woke up and I’m already being judged for my preferences! And what is that phrase even supposed to mean?”

“Well, most people, myself included, find public places like the Grand Bazaar to be the antonyms of comfort”

“Well sue me for” - realization dawned, making Kaveh sit up - “wait…how do you know the dream was about the Grand Bazaar?” - If he wasn’t awake before, he certainly was now. Alhaitham is, without a doubt, a gifted scholar. But how could he have possibly known such intricate details of someone else’s dream?

“Hearing you mumble the name of our fruit vendor in your sleep definitely aided me in solving that mystery”

“Oh…you heard that…”

“There isn’t much to be ashamed of. He is by far not the worst looking. I guess the padisarahs being a symbol does have meaning after all” - Alhaitham thought out loud.

“Hey! It wasn’t like that at all! The dream was set in the Grand Bazaar, Karim wasn’t even the main subject of the dream, for your information!”

“Your defensive reaction proves my hypothesis to be correct. If it weren't, then you-”

“Ugh, would you stop?! It’s not true, whether you believe me or not! Why am I even defending myself because of some brief hypothesis you came up with? No, I’m not wasting any more time on this. I need coffee…”

“Yours is on the table”

“...right...thank you…”

Kaveh reluctantly left the divan on which he drifted to dreamland last night. He was about to make his way to the kitchen, but briefly glanced back.

*...huh…*

The two pillows and blanket grabbed his attention.

*...I don’t recall those being there before…*

All architects do have an eye for detail. But ours didn't have time for this. Shaking the thought off, Kaveh decidedly headed towards the kitchen. Though Alhaitham still occupied the doorframe, observing, the architect strutted past him, demonstratively turning his head away. Alhaitham sighed and followed.

The two roommates found their designated spots at the kitchen table and finally settled. Both desperately required their joined start to the morning: coffee & breakfast. Kaveh was exceptionally excited to begin the day. 

Teaching was something he truly enjoyed. The professor looked forward to arriving at the Akademiya, sharing the experience he had acquired over years of work, joining discussions after lectures. After lectures…wait, he did not like the sound of that. It felt off…oh Archons. Of course. How could he forget the bane of his current Akademiya life. Jabir would undeniably be there. Again.

*That man…that entitled…arrogant…ugh. If he shows his face after another another one of my lectures I'll genuinely-*

“Thinking of your vigorous colleague?”

Kaveh hadn't realized how his brows had furrowed, and expression shifted to one of pure agony. “Do not even call him my colleague. Colleagues don't put their coworkers into such situations”

“I never claimed him to be a good colleague”

“My point stays!”

“As you wish. But I thought you concluded what your further actions will be yesterday”

“I mean…yes and no. It’s just…”

“Too complex, and you do not have a single clue where to start?”

“.. something like that”

Indeed, the two roommates may not always see eye to eye. However in moments like this one, Kaveh was grateful that Alhaitham seemed to understand him from half a word.

“If you hadn’t fallen asleep yesterday, you would have had a chance to hear my detailed observations on the subject”

And in moments like this Kaveh's blood boiled.

“Come on, of all things, don’t fault me for sleeping!”

“Never did”

“Wh- You just said it!”

“What I meant is I have already planned an approximate template of how further action should look like”

“Oh! You…have?”

“Yes”

“...”

“How come you sound so surprised?”

“I don’t know…it seems unusual to hear you say something like that”

“...like what?”

“You claiming to have a template of how a romantic relationship should look like”

“What do you mean?”

“Well…it's just that…how can you be so sure that your understanding of romance and relationships is a good reference?”

The words caused Alhaitham to loosen the hold he had on his coffee cup. After a moment of silence he finally spoke:

“What makes you say that?”

“Well, your demeanor is more reserved”

“So my understanding of relationships must be invalid?”

“That’s absolutely not what I said”

“Contrary to popular belief, Kaveh, I do have an understanding of how relationships, including romantic ones, work. My demeanor may not be expressive. That does not make assuming me to be socially inept righteous.”

Kaveh’s gaze had been resting on his companion for most of the conversation. But letting it linger after his statement felt…obtruding. The plate of food in front of him suddenly seemed to peak his attention more.

“I didn’t mean it that way. Your…level of expressiveness builds a demeanor for which, lightly saying, it's uncommon to hear such words from…”

In return, Kaveh earned a raised eyebrow from Alhaitham. He sat in front, arms now crossed. His roommate was unimpressed.

“I’m sorry”

Alhaitham finally reached for his coffee again.

“I understood the meaning behind your words”

After a long sip he added:

“I’m simply fixing your perspective. I trust you to be observant enough to realize your miscalculation”

Kaveh’s gaze returned to his roommate, examining curiously. His turquoise eyes were focused on the cup of coffee, gloved hand gently swirling it around. Coming from his roommate, that action is a telltale sign of an almost finished beverage.

Alhaitham glanced back at the one examining him.

“What are your expert recommendations then”

“Hm?”

“You said you have a template”

“Correct”

“So, what does it look like? What does implementation include?”

“From your side?”

“Come on Alhaitham, you can’t expect me to just read your mind and somehow understand what is anticipated of me”

“Nothing”

“...come again?”

“Nothing is required of you”

“But…how am I-” “There is no change in behavior which would be required from your side”

“...”

“Let me put it this way. The plan is focused on displaying that you are in a relationship rather than displaying any change in your behavior”

“Ah, right…I already claimed to be in a relationship, so a drastic change in behavior would be suspicious”

“Precisely”

“Then…”

“The implementation is my responsibility”

“And…how are you planning on doing that?”

“That would be none of your concern”

“Excuse you? It is all of my concern! This is my personal life we are talking about!”

Alhaitham stood up, carrying his coffee cup to the sink. After a hasty rinse, it was placed in the cabinet above. Finally caffeinated, Alhaitham headed to the kitchen doorway, content with the progress of today’s morning routine.

“Hah. For someone who claims to know how relationships work, you certainly enjoy ignoring people”

The Scribe stopped right at the exit from the kitchen, and sighed.

“Get ready for work, Kaveh. Unless you wish for your tardiness to be after your career as well”

I came across the “fell first/fell harder" trope and oh my gosh do I have thoughts about it paired with kavetham. buckle in people.

note: whichever trope you prefer for them, it is valid 🫶🏻 this is just a mini character analysis explaining why I think Kaveh fell first, & Alhaitham fell harder (basically an excuse to yap abt kavetham)

1. Understanding Alhaitham:

(important since he is often mischaracterized)

To understand why this trope makes sense we need to revisit the Akademiya years of the two roommates. Specifically, let’s focus on Alhaitham and what connection represents for him. Alhaitham is not deliberately antisocial. It’s not that he doesn’t enjoy connecting with others. He is simply the type of character who does not engage in relationships or even interactions which he does not want to engage in. Hence, each interaction and relationship he forms is purely out of personal choice. Not out of fear of hurting the others feelings by rejecting the bid for connection, nor out of pity. Alhaitham only forms relationships out of personal choice. For him, being close with someone is a telltale sign that he aligns with the person, in some way. A sign that he isn’t just acquainted with them, but that he actively chooses the person.

2. Why Kaveh fell first

Let’s take a look at how both form connections

Kaveh is typically viewed as the more social of the two. He has a more active social life, compared to Alhaitham’s. Being close with others is something that comes naturally to him, and is common. For Kaveh, choosing him to be your friend is enough reason for him to be yours.

Alhaitham is viewed as the more reserved of the two. For him, connections form in a more complex way, with careful reasoning and intention. Simply choosing to be Alhaitham’s friend would not be enough to make him to be yours. For someone to be close with Alhaitham, the latter needs to be actively personally choosing the person.

Connections manifest differently for the two.

Now, this is the important part. Let’s trace back to how the relationship between Kaveh and Alhaitham began.

“When his (Alhaitham’s) name was mentioned, even the old researchers from Kshahrewar would shake their heads and say that he was too intelligent by half and hard to get along with. [...] He (Kaveh) would meet this junior student in the library at times, and would speak to him out of curiosity”

(Quoted from Kaveh’s genshin wiki profile)

Kaveh chose to be Alhaitham’s friend before Alhaitham ever chose to be his.

I see a deep parallel in how their relationship came to be & the claim that “Kaveh fell first”.

3. Why Alhaitham fell harder

Let's revisit Understanding Alhaitham. We already know that for him, connection manifests in a more complex way. For someone to be close to Alhaitham, the latter needs to be actively personally choosing the person.

We know about Alhaitham's interactions with the traveler, Cyno, Tighnari, Dehya. We also observe his interactions with others in events, quests, and stories. However, in Alhaitham’s eyes, I believe all of the characters I just mentioned classify as acquaintances. Those he got familiar with recently. For Alhaitham, the only truly close connection we know of, other than Kaveh, would be his late grandmother.

No matter how we twist it or turn it, Kaveh was Alhaitham's first friend. Not just someone Alhaitham knows. Not another fellow student. Not simply one of his acquaintances. He was the first person Alhaitham got incredibly close to out of personal choice. He chooses Kaveh. Just like he chose him in their Akademiya years, he chooses him now.

Let’s focus on how both view the connection they have, for a second.

We know that Kaveh and Alhaitham are monumental to each other’s lives. This is confirmed through their story quests, character voice lines, descriptions, etc. Formerly being best friends, & currently sharing a living space, it seems like no matter what happens between the two, the impact they have on each other is undeniable. They are critically important to each other’s stories.

However, the meaning Kaveh and Alhaitham have in each other's life is somehow asymmetrical without being unequal.

It is through Kaveh that we come into contact with Alhaitham’s emotional world the most. When he is around Kaveh, one of the least externally expressive Genshin characters turns into a sassy, talkative, and emotional roommate who loves to bicker with specifically Kaveh. It is through Kaveh that Alhaitham came to understand connection deeply enough to conclude this:

“All I will say is that the world is not built on correctness alone. Sometimes, being correct means nothing at all” - Alhaitham.

When Alhaitham said this, it was not borrowed from abstract philosophy. It was a conclusion he came to himself after coming face to face with the consequences.

Kaveh seems to carry his persona across circumstances. The temperament and ideals he holds precede the first time he and Alhaitham ever crossed paths. He could have never talked to the junior and still recognizably remained The Light of Kshahrewar. On the other hand, for Alhaitham, Kaveh is woven into the very structure of how he understands connection. If we remove Kaveh, Alhaitham does not crumble…but it feels like an intricate part of him has disappeared.

For Alhaitham, Kaveh carries a meaning that doesn’t simply lay in companionship, but one tied to fundamental things: identity; choice; worldview.

Go listen to the song and then take a look at this:

“I don't wanna only call your name when I'm brokenhearted I already know how much you've got to lose I don't wanna have to crash and burn to be where we started I don't wanna ever need a map to you”

The Akademiya fallout was the “crash & burn” landmark for the pair. Everything went up in shambles. Ties cut, Akademiya projects cancelled, a wound seemingly beyond mend. The two crashed and burnt. Then, the rekindling. A fateful meeting, which resulted in Kaveh moving in. Step by step, it was a slow, painful way, learning to coexist together despite the past. With time, the relationship between the two had begun its improvement. By no means perfect, but positive changes are noticeable. In recent events we see their interactions as less emotionally loaded, filled with more compassion, and better understanding of each other. They are rediscovering each other’s emotional worlds yet again, starting from scratch. “I don't wanna have to crash and burn to be where we started”. The two had to crash and burn to get back to where they started from when they first met at the Akademiya.

Kaveh is intensely emotional, and I do not mean this in a negative way. He feels deeply and said depth affects him, whether it be positive things, or negative ones. I’d claim all interactions or relationships to have ever taken place in his life have had an impact on him, especially his relationship with Alhaitham. Though Alhaitham himself is primarily inwardly emotional, Kaveh is outwardly emotional, and expressive. The most recent Sumeru event, “Ruins Exploration: Fieldwise Center” depicts how Alhaitham, after Kaveh’s reference to their fallout, changes his behavior immediately, avoiding further damaging impact to their relationship. Alhaitham understands how deeply Kaveh feels, and likely realizes the impact their relationship has on him. He sees the vulnerability Kaveh’s circumstances imposed on him, and treads lightly with consideration, and undercover compassion. “I already know how much you've got to lose”

“I'm so good at walls, good at lies, putting up my fences I'm human as it gets when it comes to you Looking in the mirror, seeing a man with a million faces But every single one, they know the truth”

Alhaitham is significantly less expressive than Kaveh, often being written down as unemotional, overly-individualistic, perhaps even robotic (of course we all know there is much more to his character. I am talking specifically about outward expression). In dialogues we hear him using a monotone & devoid of emotion voice when speaking to anyone, except for one person. Of course, that person being Kaveh. Kaveh is a critical part of Alhaitham’s life. He brings out the most emotion we have ever seen Alhaitham express throughout all in-game interactions. I do believe that Alhaitham is much more internally emotional and caring than he expresses. But there is no doubt that Kaveh brings out the human side of Alhaitham out into the World. It is in cases which involve Kaveh where Alhaitham shows the most vulnerability. The exception which breaks his seemingly robotic demeanor is always Kaveh. “I'm human as it gets when it comes to you”

“I've run so far and so high I'll chase the sun 'til light time” But I ain't gonna keep my distance from you Yeah, I already know what distance can do If I let you get away, bury me today Yeah, I ain't gonna keep my distance from you”

Kaveh is altruistic in nature, while Alhaitham is pragmatic. (btw there are really good analysis and essays of how the roles are actually reversed and Kaveh is self-punishingly altruistic while Alhaitham’s pragmatism is other-protective, however it’s not the topic of this essay lol). So, an Altruist and a Pragmatic. Due to the contrasts of their nature, the two will always inevitably oppose each other in certain cases. In the past, their differences caused them to fall apart, contrast too strong to handle. No matter what they do, trying to “solve” these differences is a thankless task. It is akin to trying to change nature’s laws, chasing after something that cannot be reached. “I'll chase the sun 'til light time”

When Kaveh first moved back in with Alhaitham, he used to steer clear of his “former friend” - turnt roommate with all his might. Any interaction which could be avoided was avoided. Relearning how to coexist was a tough task. But finally, after much time, the pair has built a rhythm between themselves. They no longer outrun each other. Interactions are no longer avoided. The gap previously separating the two is no longer there. “But I ain't gonna keep my distance from you”

Kaveh and Alhaitham are well acquainted with each other’s emotional worlds, as of now. “Foreign” would not be a word either would use to describe their understanding of the other. And net, neither can they deny the effect of former unfamiliarity. Clashes in academic journals. That is what Alhaitham and Kaveh had to resort to for years, following their fallout. A pen and paper were the closest way they could possibly reach each other. Silence was almost all they had to go on. Though the past may not be ideal for reminiscing, it is certainly a good teacher. Knowing the rifts unfamiliarity can cause, the two chose to not let it rule their dynamic. No longer shall they call each other’s inner world’s foreign. Not after what they know it can cause. “Yeah, I already know what distance can do”

Chapter Two: "He is the reason companies write instructions on shampoo bottles"

Link to previous chapter: here

To read on ao3 click: here

Warnings: none! Word count: 2265 Notes: as promised, NEW CHAPTER YAAAAAAAY this is about all I have written so far lmk if you'd want to see a continuation of this fic!! ANYWAYS enjoy the read, lovelies <3

*thud*

Two cups of freshly brewed coffee found their regular spot on the living room table. Kaveh plopped down onto the divan soon after, a loud sigh escaping his lips. In response, Alhaitham bookmarked this evening's “light reading” of about 700 pages, and turned his attention to the one by his side.

Ever since Kaveh became an Akademiya professor, his time at home had been cut short. In retaliation, the two roommates established a comfortable routine of midnight coffee and conversation. A shared love for the drink made it all the better. Quickly, said routine became one of the most pleasant parts of the day for the two companions.

“I don’t even want to guess how things would have played out if you hadn’t joined the lecture hall”

Kaveh took a sip of his coffee. Its strong aroma washed away all concern the day had brought.

“Mr. Faris is the type who learns things exclusively the hard way. Quite the unyielding individual" - Alhaitham added onto the conversation, replicating his companion’s sigh. He never would have guessed that such a situation could rile him up. And yet, here he was, repercussions of today's event clear as day. - “Do you think he will grant you peace following today’s encounter?”

“…I don’t know.”

“Is he too tenacious for that?”

“...I think so. I expect him to pry into your personal life now too, just to know whether I lied or not. Sorry I got you involved in this…” - Kaveh put his cup down on the table. Throwing his back against the divan, he covered his face with his hands, slowly dragging them down into a praying formation. - “I don’t know how much patience I have left, this has been going on for over a month. No matter what I tell him, his comprehension is that of a preschooler. I’m starting to think he is the sole reason companies write instructions on shampoo bottles.”

Alhaitham let out an involuntary cackle, almost choking on his coffee.

“I’m serious! I told you, I wouldn't be surprised if the pattern repeats tomorrow, and he attempts to initiate a coffee date. Again! Ugh. The thought of it makes me want to quit, just so I don’t run into him anymore!” - the frustration was too much to handle for our overworked professor.

The situation's seriousness made Alhaitham place his cup of coffee down.

“Slow down now, no one is quitting their job. Especially not you. Not over Jabir, at least”

“Great, so I do not even have that option! What else do you suggest then? Because I cannot handle one more day of this idiocy”

Alhaitham went quiet. After all, contemplation requires focus.

“Have you considered bringing this case to the authorities? Mr. Faris is clearly breaking staff policies, let alone the Akademiya code of conduct”

“Of course I have! Who do you take me for?”  - the blonde retorted with a frown - “That is the first and most obvious course of action!” - Does his roommate truly think so low of him? - “On one hand, a young professor who has been teaching for a few months at most, on the other, a staff member, holding years of teaching experience at the Akademiya, familiar with everyone. Pha, take a guess whose side the staff would take.”

“You underestimate your popularity amongst Akademiya staff, Kaveh. Besides, no matter the accused one's identity, breaking Akademiya code of conduct is serious enough. People would at least look into the matter”

“Oh, sure, let me run off and do exactly that. I’m certain he won’t make up some fake alibi, and claim I’m trying to ruin his reputation for the sake of taking over his higher paying position. Come on, both you and I know how Akademiya politics work. This strategy would guarantee losing the trust of Akademiya staff at best, and losing my job at worst” - the architect finalized with a frustrated huff. Settling down on the shared divan, he seemed to have accepted his cruel fate - “I’m truly done for”

A few moments of Alhaitham’s contemplation resulted in a thought.

“Not unless Jabir backs off himself”

Kaveh couldn’t help but scoff.

“As you see, the Archons simply do not wish to grant me such an honor”

“Well don’t you think it’s time to take things into your own hands then?”

“...and how would you suggest I do that, o wise Scribe?”

“Well, first and foremost, the oldest trick in the book would be requesting a favor from Dehya. Mr. Faris receiving a personal visit from her would resolve any problems you may be having. Considering your situation, I’m also certain she would gladly lend a helping hand. But I know you are not one to enjoy solving things in such a way”

“Ugh, it’s not just that, I also do not want to bother Dehya. She has more important matters to deal with than an Akademiya professor asking me out for coffee”

“You very well know it has far crossed that line”

“Fine, your point has been made. Still, I’m not using that approach, and you know it”

Silence fell upon the room of scheming minds. This is certainly no unsolvable equation. Surely there has to be an answer. One which excluded any confrontation with authority…Akademiya politics…and asking for favors…unless…the one who the favor would be asked of…

“Kaveh”

“...yes, Alhaitham” - the sulking architect echoed.

“You have already found the solution”

A confused expression formed on Kaveh’s face.

“You solved your own problem this evening. The formula was derived by you. Like scholars who solve multiple equations using the same formula, all we have to do is keep utilizing it”

“Stop phrasing everything as if you’re the one giving Akademiya lectures daily! And, excuse me? We? You and I? Plural? Today’s chaos has not been enough for you, I see. Whatever the solution is, I’d strongly prefer to avoid dragging you in once again.”

“As you wish, then. Best of luck figuri-”

“Wait, okay, okay, fine, goodness” - Kaveh sighed, desperacy evident in his tone - “Go on. What is this brilliant solution you speak of?”

“Never thought I’d get to see you admiring your own ideas”

“Would you stop with that?! You know exactly what I meant!”

“You know exactly what I meant as well”

After a moment of contemplation, Kaveh spoke:

“...having you barge into the lecture hall every time Jabir shows up? That’s hardly an effective strategy”

“Let me phrase it in an understandable way. If we would be playing a game of ‘hot or cold’ I’d say your guess is extraordinary warm”

“How is that supposed to be more understandable? It is not remotely indicative of the answer!”

“I guess I should contact Dr. Zakariya and sign you up for a checkup, if you cannot remember ideas you came up with just this evening”

“Quit making fun of me and just-”

Kaveh paused, realization dawning. Alhaitham wasn’t even making fun of him. He was right.

“The only way to make Jabir back off himself would be to…”

”Convince him I am actively seeing someone, just like I did today…”

“Precisely”

A moment passed. Then two. Kaveh turned the idea around and around in his mind. His chest tightened.

“...so…you are suggesting I find someone…to…pose…as my partner?”

“You already did”

“It was pure coincidence”

“And yet, it worked, didn’t it?”

“Just for the evening”

“So who’s to say it wouldn’t work again?”

As much as Kaveh hated admitting it, his roommate was correct. The idea did make sense. Perhaps it would not keep Jabir from interacting with him completely…and yet, whatever courting plans the arrogant man may have had would require cancellation, or, at the very least, postponement. However, implementing the idea would mean pretending to date Alhaitham…a wave of emotion washed over Kaveh, drowning any attempts at rational thinking. 

“Well I- Ugh, it was by pure chance! Not my fault you just randomly showed up at the lecture hall”

The sentence earned him a raised eyebrow and a faint grin from Alhaitham. His companion’s attempts to justify the decision about to be made were weirdly amusing.

“I never claimed it to be your fault to start with”

Kaveh groaned in agony, and the scene was comically familiar. It reminded Alhaitham of their younger Akademiya years, workload and deadlines testing the limits of their capabilities. A lot of things have changed since then. And yet the look of anguish on his seniors' face remained the same.

“Wow, senior. What a reaction. Fake-dating your roommate for the sake of repelling a vigorous suitor who may ruin your career. The mere prospect of it brought you to agony. Your roommate must be quite unbearable" - Alhaitham chuckled.

“You know perfectly well that’s not what I meant, not even slightly! And you’re enjoying yourself too much, especially for a situation that puts my career on the line, Alhaitham!”

Alhaitham simply stared back, the formerly faint grin turning evident. Kaveh concluded his dearest friend simply found enjoyment in his suffering. Seemingly even more if he was actively participating in it.

“Wipe that grin off your face, would you?!” - this day was not planning to go easy on Kaveh, not even during his favorite part of it. But what other choice did he have? Alhaitham’s conclusion was painfully correct, both understood that much - “As much as I dislike admitting it…” - Kaveh sighed - “you’re right. The easiest solution is to play along with what Jabir witnessed today, and make him truly believe it”

“Took you long enough to comprehend”

“Well excuse me for not being a whizz past midnight, after a day of chaos, and patience being tested, first by Jabir, and now you too”

Seeing his roommates' state tugged at Alhaitham’s heartstrings: dark circles under his eyes; gaze cemented to the floor; empty coffee mug in hand;

The Scribe stood up. Reaching towards his companion's hand he gently took the mug from it. The brisk interaction made their fingers lightly graze each other. It was enough contact to grab Kaveh’s attention, gaze shifting from the floor to the one in front of him.

Alhaitham swiftly grabbed his own cup from the table and headed towards the kitchen, supposedly leaving his roommate alone to contemplate. Kaveh remained glued to the divan, observing. He kept Alhaitham in his line of sight, letting him disappear in the kitchen doorway.

* * *

“Clank”

Two coffee mugs were placed in the metal sink. Alhaitham gloved his hands, giving a start to the kitchen routine. He scrubbed, rinsed, and gradually the pile of dishes previously clouding the kitchen dissolved.

“More than half the work has coincidentally been completed for us. A shared living space forges a believable foundation for shared routines, presumed proximity, and voluntary regular presence. Unless Jabir is not only vigorous but also unobservant, a few visible adjustments should suffice.”

Pouring a glass of water for the sake of rehydration, Alhaitham made his way to the living room, eager to share the analysis with his roommate. Before having the chance to utter a word, the Scribe came across a sight which made him pause in his tracks. Kaveh had fallen asleep in the living room.

His hand curved around the divan armrest, head placed against it. Strands of hair loosely fell on his face, curtaining his line of sight. His chest slowly rose and fell, even breaths meditatively keeping him asleep. A twisted spine, and a leg dangling off the divan’s edge sealed the deal. Alhaitham pictured his roommate showing up to breakfast full of complaints and grumbles. “Ugh, my back is killing me…”. He could vividly reconstruct Kaveh's voice in his mind. The only reason for that being how common it is for the architect to doze off before reaching his own quarters.

Alhaitham allowed himself just a minute to spare. Attempting to make as little sound as possible, he gently placed the cup of water on the table, and made a few steps towards the divan. Kaveh’s hair was an absolute mess, braid half undone, loose strands tickling his face. It seemed quite uncomfortable, at least in Alhaitham’s eyes. He took the liberty of fixing the mess, tucking the loose strands behind his roommates’ ear. Now, that’s much better. His fingers gently grazed the architect's cheeks, tracing the blush. “Just by coincidence” - he told himself - “The loose strands couldn’t remove themselves”. But the touch lingered. Kaveh’s skin felt warm and smooth against his own hand. 

Content with the intervention, Alhaitham debated further actions. A Kaveh with back pain is a mental pain for all. Making his way to the architect’s room, he took a blanket, as well as two pillows. The blonde constantly claims: “Sleeping with just one is impossible!”.

Alhaitham carefully slid a hand underneath, cupping Kaveh’s shoulders. Slightly lifting them, he made some space between his sleeping roommate and the divan. Two pillows went in that space, followed by a gentle return of said roommate. A blanket now also covered the divan’s surface.

The Scribe stood up, leading a final visual survey of his work. Safe to conclude, everyone's mood for the upcoming day had been saved. His roommate seemed comfortable enough to greet the morning with no back pain. Kaveh stirred in his sleep, settling in the newfound warmth and comfort. Something about the action reminded Alhaitham of a desert fox nestled in a burrow. “Hm. How amusing” - he thought to himself.

A final glance was thrown, lasting longer than intended.

“Goodnight, Kaveh”

Chapter One: "Archons please give me patience. Because if you give me strength, I'm going to need bail mora"

To read on ao3 click: here

Warnings: none! Word count: 1485 Description: The ever-luminous Light of Kshahrewar had been perfectly tackling his role as a new Akademiya Professor...until a vigorously entitled colleague turned Akademiya life into torture, crossing boundaries & testing the young professors limits. Our beloved Kaveh, in haste, finds an unexpected fix within his companion, Alhaitham. Carefully scheming and plotting, the two masterminds begin implementation. What shall follow? Stay tuned to find out ;) Notes: To start with, no, don't worry, this work will not be angst heavy (or have much angst at all, for that matter. emotional tension at most) Our beloveds deserve a happy finale to a story, for once, do they not? AAAHHH kinda excited for this one!!!!!!!! Chatper 2 is already written, so an update shall arrive soon!! LET'S GOOOOOO!!!!

It all started on a random Tuesday.

Kaveh had been working part time as a Sumeru Akademiya professor for the last few months…and, truth be told, the experience had been nothing short of incredible. Some would still claim him to be a relatively new addition to the Akademiya staff, yet for one so junior to the job, he had made exceptional progress. 

The “Light of Kshahrewar” effortlessly gained popularity amongst students and professors alike. Classes he taught turned into top performers; Outstanding student reviews flooded offices; Teaching staff awestruck by teaching approaches the young professor used; Those close to the architect would even claim he had been glowing brighter as of late, newfound purpose & flare making all the difference. Yet, it truly is as people say: “a shining Star lights the sky. And guides the wrong ships too”. Alas, that couldn't be more true for our dear Kaveh.

Professor Jabir seemed like a noble individual, even more so, a fellow staff member. People spoke of him as compelling, perhaps vigorous. And, yes, his reputation did precede him. So what? What kind of person would Kaveh be to judge a colleague on such a basis? No, no. Our light of Kasahrewar would never.

Which is why Kaveh tried to pay no mind when professor Jabir started occasionally intruding on Kaveh's lectures. His colleague was attending for the sake of fairly assessing Kaveh’s teaching approaches. Friendly help from an experienced colleague never hurt, right? The blonde also tried paying no mind to how professor Jabir lingered in the hall after his lectures, casually striking up conversation, discussing certain points, and giving feedback. Constructive criticism could certainly be of use, no?

Slowly but steadily, the friendly attempts of help turned into masked attempts of courtship. While in the past, professor Jabir's reputation had been something Kaveh could turn a blind eye to, no longer could he give the benefit of the doubt. The word “no” was simply at a frequency the man was incapable of hearing, apparently.

“Kaveh…” - Jabir practically purred, standing in the doorway of the lecture hall, blocking Kaveh's only hope of escape.

The architect had been desperately trying to seem busy. Pen in hand, his furious pretend scribbling echoed through the vast auditorium. Glasses on, hair in a braid. Who would dare disturb a professor so deep in thought, especially after a lecture?

Jabir. Jabir Faris would.

“Archons please give me patience. Because if you give me strength, I'm going to need bail mora” - Kaveh thought to himself.

“Yes, Mr. Faris? Can I help you with something?”

“I thought I told you to call me Jabir, didn't I?”

The phrase earned a rightful scoff from Kaveh.

“And I thought I told you that I am not a fan of work discussions outside of work hours. So, I figured we were even” - Kaveh retorted, throwing a theatrical smile Jabir's way.

“hahahah” - the other professor cackled, and Kaveh regretted refusing his roommate's suggestion of borrowing his noise cancelling earpiece.

“Your sense of humor is quite something, Kaveh. I am not here for the sake of a work discussion”

Jabir made a few steps forward, entering the lecture hall, decreasing distance.

“Since you're so shy, I'll take on the responsibility of initiating. Meet me at 8 tonight, Puspa cafe”

All Kaveh could do was stare at the man talking, dumbfounded. “Excuse me, I am in quite a rush”; “I already have plans for the evening”; “A relationship is not what I am looking for”; All possible phrases had already been used, each and every single one flying over the entitled man’s head. So Kaveh resorted to the last thing his arsenal could provide. The death stare Jabir received would be enough to send chills down an Archon's spine…Jabir was no Archon.

“I take that as a yes”

That does it. Kaveh’s nostrils flared, eyebrows narrowed. Heavy breaths were the only thing he could produce in response. The blonde was but a few seconds away from becoming a wanted criminal.

Kaveh was a patient person, and one would have to truly put in effort to bring out anger from the kindhearted man. In fact, one of the only things which could contribute to such a state would be his roommate. However, now, Kaveh desperately wished to apologize to him. Jabir had just taken his high score. Not once had Alhaitham made him as angry and agitated as his vigorous colleague just did.

Perhaps, the Archons heard Kaveh’s monologue. A gray haired figure appeared in the doorframe, observing the scene unfolding in the lecture hall.

“Mr. Faris. As previously stated, I am not interested”

Jabir smirked.

“Not interested? Or simply shy?”

Kaveh caught his colleagues' gaze again.

“I do not. wish. to join you. for coffee” - the architect put in as much emotion as humanly possible, dragging each word, lacing the sentence with pure spite.

“And why is that?” - Jabir retorted. The words made Alhaitham change his role from spectator to participant. Such unreasonably entitled behavior…what was Mr. Faris thinking? Surely anyone could notice that the architect's patience was hanging by a thread. Alhaitham had better use for his mora than bailing his roommate out of jail. He steadily made his way towards the two professors through the big hall.

Meanwhile Kaveh was racking his brain for a response. He had used all possible excuses, all probable explanations…but one. It was blunt. A simple excuse, meant to finish the utter tomfoolery taking place in this lecture hall.

“I already have a partner”

*Alhaitham involuntarily stopped in his tracks*

“...what?…”

“WHAT?!”

“what?”

All three scholars were caught off guard.

“...come again?”

“I said, Mr. Faris. I have. A partner”

“...what nonsense. That cannot be the truth. Not once have I seen you with anyone resembling a partner”

*Kaveh rolled his eyes*

“Well then, who is this mysterious partner you speak of, professor Kaveh?”

“You cannot be serious! Is this an interrogation now?”

“Not unless you’re telling the truth” - Jabir was evidently here for answers.

What followed is perhaps one of the least thought through actions in Kaveh’s life. A last ditch self preservation attempt, that’s what it was.

“You’re a smart man, Mr. Faris. I trust by now you have figured it out? Who could I be with, if not the person I come home to?”

“…well, I- it does make some sense, but I’ve never seen-” 

Alhaitham took that as his cue, and rightfully so. He could not listen to one more moment of this idiocy. Mr. Faris had struck far too many nerves. Who did this man think he was? Appearing from behind Jabir, the Scribe made his presence known.

“Good evening, Kaveh…Mr. Faris” - The Scribe greeted the two, throwing a stern look Jabir's way.

“Scribe Alhaitham, good evening, I-”

“You have taken up quite a bit of my companions' time, I see. We shall be taking our leave.”

“right…” - Jabir was as confused as a preschool child learning arithmetics.

Alhaitham gently guided the young professor out of the lecture hall, all while resting a hand on his back, then letting it slowly slip around his waist. Right as the two were about to depart, the Scribe stopped in his tracks.

“oh, and…Jabir, was it?”

“...correct” - the first name basis made Mr. Faris feel out of place.

“Jabir. A word of advice from a fellow scholar. Harassing colleagues is not going to aid you in furthering your career. Neither is it a good look for an Akademiya professor. Reputation is far from the easiest thing to restore. You are lucky. Kaveh goes easy on people. Others don’t…myself included. Evening.”

And with that, the pair left Jabir in the aftermath of his own wrongdoings.

* * *

“Hold my hand up until we’re at a reasonable distance from the Akademiya” - Alhaitham whispered into Kaveh’s ear. Despite it being a warm summer day, chills ran down Kaveh’s spine - “Your pretentious colleague is staring bullets at our backs from the doorway”

“Ugh, of course he is! I doubt he believed even half of what he heard”

“What a gem of a professor. I’m curious as to who made him a part of the Akademiya in the first place. Remind me to run a background check on him later”

“Yeah, right. As if a background check is going to fix the issue at hand.”

“It likely won’t. But I doubt authorities will turn a blind eye to a professor breaking Akademiya principles”

“...I’m sorry for this mayhem…I really didn’t mean to drag you into this…”

“Apologizing for someone else’s wrongdoings, as usual. And here I thought teaching at the Akademiya would have knocked some sense into you”

“Ugh, you-” - Kaveh couldn't help but squeeze his companions’ hand out of rage, making the other slightly wince. - ”I’m not doing this here, Alhaitham, I’m really not. Today has been more than enough. Spare me some patience, would you?!”

Warnings: none!

Word Count: 1,329

Notes:

(also available on ao3. link after notes!) In short, Kaveh barges into Alhaitham's office. The two end up walking through the Akademiya halls & reminiscing. This work is timed shortly after the Sumeru Crisis. Enjoy these two sillies 🫶🏻

“For goodness’ sake, you’re not a vampire, Alhaitham! Opening the blinds from time to time isn’t going to kill you. It’s healthy. I’m surprised you’re unaware of that as a scholar” the unexpected visitor uttered, strutting into Alhaitham’s office. Upon reaching the windowsill, Kaveh tugged on a string. The blinds slid to the top. All Alhaitham could do in response was squint from the unexpected light…and Kaveh certainly caught sight.

“Now THAT is how I know you have not been outside of your office for hours on end. And you tell me I should not worry, pha!” the blonde exclaimed, striking a hilariously serious pose, with his hands planted firmly on his hips. Alhaitham stayed seated & silent, letting his visitor lecture him about work-life balance, health, and wellbeing.

AND (even though it would definitely brighten his workdays) absolutely refuses to have pets at his workplace because they would not be getting enough sunlight.