Home and Hearth
Synopsis: HCS about HSR men take you to visit their parents (with spontaneous paragraphs of writing..)
Feature: Anaxa, Mydei, Dan Heng, Phainon
Word count: 6k6
Tags: established relationship, gen-neu reader, reader used the/them pronoun, reader is mentioned to not be from Aedes Elysiae and Castrum Kremnos, not much of a warrior too, basically fluff, set in the canon world of HSR but all these characters have a loving a nice household, you only meet Anaxa's sister though and the Express Crew since Dan Heng doesn't really have parents
Note: This was supposed to be for Christmas but oh well. Starting to lock in again since exams are over! This is def not my proudest work but I decided to post it rather than leaving it to rot...
Anaxagoras
Definitely is the kind to tell you a lot about his sister when you two begin dating and of course, he has nothing but kind words to say about her. (You're one of the few people that know about his Dromas plushie that his sister gifted him and practically all the things about him that people could never associate Anaxa–The Great Performer with.)
Reasonably, you're on edge. I mean, meeting a family (or the only family) of your lover is a big occasion, so you go all out to prepare everything perfectly. What to wear, what topic to speak about, you even do research on what she likes so as to prepare appropriate gifts.
Anaxa finds your endeavor rather amusing. But also reassures you that his sister would definitely like you regardless.
"Rest assured, my sister would never think ill of my significant other. After all, you're the object of my affection, the person whom I choose to reside by. So you need not to stress your mind with this matter. As long as you express your true self most naturally, I am sure she would think you as endearing as I do."
That eases your nerves a bit and also makes your heart skip a beat with how sincere and candor he says those words. You can tell he's in a good mood if he's being so bold in expressing his affection verbally (without making you solve at least 15 riddles while simultaneously flipping 4 pancakes and writing an essay on how a Dromas' diet influences its idiosyncratic behavioral and physical traits💀.)
That's right, if Anaxa himself is confident that his sister will like you— the person he allegedly likes more than the eight billion other options in Amphoreus ( I do not know anything about Amphoreus population sorry) then there's nothing for you to be concerned about!
"Oh my, are you my brother's lover? It is nice to finally meet you dear!" Anaxa's sister… Although they are carbon copies of each other, they have quite a stark contrast in their demeanor.
That's not to say Anaxa himself isn't convivial or hospitable, he's not just that upbeat on a regular occasion. His sister, on the other hand, is the living definition of "friendly". During the first 10 minutes of meeting her, she has excitedly given you a warm, intimate hug, gushed about how lucky her brother is to have someone like you by his side and spilled at least 28 of his childhood top-secrets.
"I still can't believe my brother has managed to find someone as lovely as you. And here I was, worrying Naxy would be cooped up in those cold and lonely research rooms all by himself for the rest of his life!"
"Sister." Anaxa firmly… reprimands her?? That's not even a reprimand, you don't blush like that when you are trying to tell someone off. You find it cute how polite and restrained he is towards his sister. If he hears any rando calling him that ridiculous nickname within a 5 meters radius, they would be obliterated with the most brutal, insane verbal assault known to man (or straight up his "teaching equipment")
Despite her humorous tone, there is a clear edge of relief to her words. Watching you and Anaxa bicker over that silly childhood nickname inadvertently brings a smile to her face. The knowing smile of a parent watching her kid growing up and finding someone that he can love with his entire heart.
Diotima (Yes, you two are that close now and she insists you make yourself comfortable within her house) takes you through Anaxa's old room. She shows off his collection of stuffed Dromases, Anaxa's baby photos (He shoots you down with a curt "Don't." when you begin to flash him the sickest snide smirk ever) and even some of his old school projects. And just like her brother, she doesn't spare any words when it comes to complimenting him.
"Don't you find it fascinating? That he made this Dromas figure from alchemy when he was just a kid! He's always been a brilliant child."
Most of his old works are very well-kept, a bit worn out by time so there's either a bit of rust or yellow stain or both. Even so, this palm-sized Dromas figure is incredibly impressive, with just a surface assessment, you can already tell the amount of meticulous craftsmanship and careful handwork put into this.
"My, this is truly remarkable. I almost feel bad for the other kids at the science fair. Although admittedly, I am more captivated by his fervent fascination with Dromases at such an early age."
"It is but a piece of cake. However, I am glad you like it." Even as he says that, his visage betrays him. Somewhere amidst that stiff and unchanging expression, you can faintly spot a smile that is beginning to form from the corners of his mouth.
"Naxy has always loved Dromases. Oh right, how could I forget, now that you're part of our family. You should come see our pet Dromas portrait." She enthusiastically ushers you downstairs, you feel a sense of warmth permeating your body, the kind that manages to make an unguarded smile appear on your face and your cheeks puffy red with happiness.
"Is it just according to what I've said? I know my sister will be fond of you." Anaxa appears by your side, glancing at you with his unpatched eye.
"You are right.. I just didn't think I would be welcomed so warmly. Your sister is a really amiable person."
"That is good to hear. Since you're now part of our family, feel free to come visit her more often, I am sure she would enjoy your company."
The thought strikes you, family… "My, someone is eager to have me as part of their family. Shall we make a trip to the Civil Office right away?" You quickly regain your trademark mischievous smile. Unabashedly, you wait for him to reply with his typical shake-off or at least a surprised grunt at your teasing, but Anaxa remains perfectly composed, much to your dismay.
"Hm, I firmly believe marriage should be a consensual matter on both sides. Now that you've shown your desire to formally and legally bring our relationship to a next stage, I see no reason in postponing this matter any longer."
"Therefore, I hope you've prepared a preferred signature to sign on our marriage certificate."
He whiffs around before you even manage to say anything. You're used to being blasted with whatever sharp comeback he throws at you—But this, this is completely different.
If his goal was to completely leave you flabbergasted, then he had earned it. You could only look at him shyly during the rest of the house tour. Did he really mean it? Is that why he takes you to meet his sister? Wait—if your conjecture were true, it means he has planned this!
When dinner comes, Diotima has already prepared everything. You feel a bit guilty since she didn't let you help much, even more so that she has taken the time to make dishes catered towards your preferences and Anaxa's too. (Apparently, Anaxa has told his sister a lot about you, beyond what you initially thought. Maybe you should ask her to show those letters to you next time, for some blackmailing materials.)
So after dinner, you take the initiative to help with the dishes — However Anaxa offers to do it instead. "I'll take care of the dishes. You two should chat with each other more." Diotima herself is obviously pleased by his offer, even teasing him about how much of a gentleman he has become. You, on the other hand, can't even hide the blush creeping onto your cheeks when he turns his gaze towards you.
You can make out the sounds of water sloshing and dishes clinking from the kitchen— must be Anaxa diligently cleaning the tableware. Meanwhile, dozens of letters are placed on the coffee table, some stained with yellow marks— the traces of time while the others retain the freshness of the paper.
The owner's handwriting is disastrous, and that would still be an understatement. But years of working together allows you to detect the familiarity in his intelligible hooks of letters, along with his unique signature at the end of each letter.
Your Brother,
Anaxagoras
Would he sign like this on your marriage papers too…?
During your moments of daydreaming, Diotima places her hand over yours, her voice dropping a bit smaller, filled with tenderness and sentiments of a loving older sister. She looks at you with nothing but sincerity in her eyes, her feelings are as pellucid as the ethereal aquamarine gemstones.
“I’ve heard a lot about you from Naxy’s letters while he was at the Grove. I still can’t believe he has finally found someone whose soul he resonates with.”
"But still, I am truly happy my brother has discovered a love that is so ardent as yours. I know he has beliefs and ideas that don't align with the majority so people often find him… disagreeable, perhaps too blunt as well."
"And I know this is very selfish of me to ask but I hope you can continue to love him. Even when his temperament may be unpredictable, I know he loves you just as dearly, even if he struggles with showing it. You of all people would understand this more than most, right?"
"And of course, if Naxy ever does something to displease you, just tell me. I'll be sure to give him a piece of my mind."
"So, look after my silly brother for me, will you?"
Her eyes soften as she looks at you, emotions and sentiments swirling into a shade of olive. Anaxa is now a revered scholar– Many despise him but his profound knowledge is indisputable, but perhaps to her, Anaxa will always be her little brother– still silly and clumsy at romance and possesses a soul that is capable of passionate love.
Overall, Diotima is a very kind-hearted person, she loves her brother with all her heart and is willing to accept anyone that makes her brother happy. With Anaxa being her only family, she wishes you could be by his side, even when he may not be the most romantic nor affectionate person— Diotima knows Anaxa loves in his own ways.
And of course, should you have any complaint about him whatsoever, you'll find that a letter to her will solve your predicament (just make sure not to abuse this privilege lol)
Mydeimos
There's no worse anxiety than having to meet the family of your lover, especially when they are the King and Queen of Castrum Kremnos.
If you're just an ordinary person with no combat experience, you would probably be scared shitless 😭😭 Castrum Kremnos is a very battle-oriented city and even though things have changed a lot compared to the past, being unable to wield a sword, a spear or a shield whatsoever would still get you weird looks from people.
So you try to make up for it by learning about Castrum Kremnos' tradition. You ask Mydei if there are any specific customs you have to follow, dining etiquette, any hidden tricks to gain his parents' approval. You even try to polish your knowledge on the Kremnoan language— But after Mydei watches you invent a new language on your own, he thinks it's best to leave this matter for another time in the future.
So what if you're a warrior? Well, you would still be stuck with the soul-crushing tension of not being able to meet their expectations. What if you aren't strong enough? Would they think you are unworthy of him? Mydei, being the attentive boyfriend of yours, of course comforts you through it all.
"You don't have to be so worried. There are at least 10 different words for 'strength' in the Kremnoan language, and none of them are limited to just physical prowess. With or without a spear, you are already the strongest person to me."
His sincere words melt away your worries a bit, giving you more confidence when facing the King and Queen of Castrum Kremnos.
"Are you the person my son has brought home?"
For a short while only. Queen Gorgo's sharp gaze almost slices your heart in half. There's no condescension in her voice, but her scrutinizing glance makes your brain melt faster than a pile of ice cream on the streets of the Mammoreal Market. King Europyon quickly commands the servants to greet the Prince and his lover, laying out a grand feast in celebration of Mydei's return and your arrival.
At the dinner table, there are at least 30 different Castrum Kremnos cuisines (you know this because you've done your homework and are overly prepared for any surprised pop quiz on the topic), golden goblets and plates with ornate engravings that speak of tales older than many civilizations. Mydei's hand is on your knee, trying to calm you. Oh no, is your nervousness really that obvious? You meet his hand under the table and he traces your knuckles with this thumb— Calm down, there's no need for you to be so worried.
Meeting Mydei's parents is your typical Asian parents interrogation. They begin to question your lineage, your upbringing, your occupation and whether you have any combat experience or not. If you find yourself unable to keep up with the bombardment of inquiries, Mydei will come in to save your clutch.
Your eyes may be deceiving you, but every time Mydei steps in to help you, you can feel the corner of Queen Gorgo's lips turn upwards a bit.
Luckily for you though, this interrogation lasts no longer than 10 minutes and after that it's more about your relationship in general.
"How do you find the food? I've specifically asked the royal chef to prepare them to greet our esteemed guest." Queen Gorgo displays a pleasant smile when you assure her that Kremnoan cuisine is splendid and express your admiration for the architecture of the fortress (Thank Nikador you actually spent 2 hours listening to that documentary on the World Wound Web)
"Our people are renowned for our incredible strength and honor. You are an outlander with no remarkable combat talents, you are aware of your disadvantage in becoming The Prince's lover are you not?"
Now that is something you didn't prepare for.
Well you did actually, it’s the first thing you think of but are you really that confident in your answer?
"I… I understand I may not be the most excellent or—or outstanding person when it comes to the arts of battle but when it comes to the virtues of Nikador… I too have been taught of them at a young age."
Your voice trembles a bit, you can feel their eyes on you. But right now, the only ones that matter are the ones of your lover.
“I do not come from a land of warriors but I was taught of perseverance and determination. Therefore, I am not going to give up our relationship merely because of our differences.”
"So please, I wish to learn more about Castrum Kremnos' culture to understand the beauties that have shaped the person I love and to become a part of your family's life!"
You're pretty sure you just yelled the last part in their face.Was that too much? You must have made a shame of yourself now. Will they dislike you? Do you leave now? Why is everyone so silent?
"Even so—"
"Father, that's enough. I did not bring them here for you to disrespect them, nor are they here as a contestant for marriage. I've brought them here out of my free will, as my lover and I expect you to treat them with the same respect you would show me."
"If you cannot see to my request that much, then I will leave with my lover right now."
Baffled but… touched? you turn to face Mydei. His eyes are fierce, showing a fiery sense of determination to protect your dignity in the face of his father's opposition. Just as he is about to ask you to leave with him, King Eurypon finally lets out…a laugh?
"That is an excellent answer my child! Now sit down and tell me how you two met."
Within one dinner, your brain must have crashed at least twice now. As you two reluctantly return to your seat, The Queen urges you to recount your first time meeting Mydei. As you relay the story to them with your last brain cell after the ordeal that just went down, Queen Gorgo herself also begins to tell you how she met King Europyon, their ensuing banter makes the air less tense and the anxiety begins to dissipate from your heart.
"That's just how they are, sorry you have to see that." Mydei turns to you, a content smile is evident on his face.
"It is quite alright, I find it very…heart-warming actually. Did your parents really have an arms wrestling match at their wedding?" Well considering they met on the battlefield, this doesn't sound that far off.
"Indeed, they still host the tradition every year." His eyes flick to his parents, their bickering is as lively and fiery as the spirit of Castrum Kremnos, yet full of love and passion nonetheless.
"Oh, do we have to do something like that too? If so, how am I ever going to win against you?" You tease him with a mischievous smile. Against your expectations, there's no witty comeback from Mydei. Perhaps still agitated by the earlier provocation, he lays his heart bare to you, admitting something that's so ardently condor and sincere.
"If it is victory that you desire, then I will gladly let you have it. Winning can never make me as satisfied as having you by my side."
When dinner is over, King Eurypon and Queen Gorgo invite you to stay back at the royal palace and come see the traditional sport festival held tomorrow. They tell you legends of past heroes, the glory of Strife and the virtues that Nikador blessed their people with. This time however, free of all tension and tautness.
"Mydeimos, why have you not prepared your lover with our people's traditional attire? Where is your manners my child? Come, I'll show you where to fetch it." Mydei turns to you briefly, almost longing to stay with you a bit longer before managing out a curt "I'll be back soon." He leaves with King Eurypon down the hallway. So that leaves you, alone, with his mother.
"I can't believe my Mydeimos has grown so quickly, now he has someone to love and call his own. That old King wasn't even this chivalrous at his age!"
"If I had offended you greatly with my remarks earlier, then I, Queen Gorgo, sincerely offer my apologies to you. I just wanted to know if Mydeimos has been treating you well. If he knows how to step up to defend you against his father and mother, and treats you with utmost love and respect, then that means I've raised him well."
"My Mydeimos… Although his armour is hardened with years of violence and blood-soaked dust of the battlefield, you'll find his heart more gentle and loving than any poet you have ever met."
"So please, love my child with your entire heart too."
You may get the impression that his parents are setting you up for a test at first but it's actually more of a test for Mydei himself. To know that their child has now grown mature and found someone he loves with his heart, they need to make sure he's treating his lover well.
In the end, what they wish most is for their child to find happiness. Now that the test is over, they're now your allies.
Dan Heng
You're deadass gonna be meeting the Astral Express crew lmao, so for the sake of the post, let's pretend like you weren't already a part of the crew.
While you're already familiar with Caelus, Stelle and March, you've yet to meet the other three members of the Nameless. One of them you know as the genius and beautiful navigator of the Astral Express, the other is Mr Sunday from Penacony and the other one is more or less of an enigmatic figure.
Even so, when faced with such formidable people, you are prone to be worried. Before you board the train for your official meeting and proper introduction as Dan Heng's significant other, you make sure to do your research.
Miss Himeko loves coffee so you've managed to buy some coffee beans on the inter-astral market, Mr Sunday and March are fond of sweets so you made a trip to Penacony to get some high-end desserts, Mr Yang likes film-making and animation so you are now suddenly overly-educated about the topic and you even have the twins' unique interest covered.
Dan Heng is reasonably baffled by your preparedness but he also assures you that you don't have to make such elaborate plans to gain their affection.
"I find your efforts admirable but truly, there's no need to plan so many things. The Astral Express members are all very friendly, I'm sure they would take a liking to you. But should any of them give you a hard time, I'll be there to back you up."
The first people you meet obviously are Stelle, Caelus and March. The three crowd around, excitedly inviting you into the parlor car. Their enthusiasm is marked by an onslaught succession of questions, ranging from your interests to your relationship with Dan Heng.
"I can't believe Dan Heng has a lover before me! Should I start brushing my hair more often or something?" Caelus asks, fingers scratching the back of his head like he were in some sort of serious contemplation.
"Have you ever heard? They say don't judge a comic by its cover, it may look bad but the content inside may just be the bomb! I bet Dan Heng has some serious hidden skills when it comes to wooing—Just to confirm though, you're sure you're here willingly? No hypnotizing magic involved? No bribery at all?" Stelle turns to face you mid-walk, her sudden turning makes your faces merely inches from each other.
Dan Heng gently pushes her face aside and sighs. "First of all, you need to treat our guest with respect by not intruding on their personal space. And second of all it's "Don't judge a book by its cover.""
"Yeah! Dan Heng's right, you two are being too invasive. So, tell me, what do you find so special in our Cold Dragon Young? Is he secretly a romantic at heart?" March whispers in your ear, you find it endearing how all lovely pink-haired girls all have a fascination with romance.
Dan Heng sighs at their antics, but doesn’t stop them. While March is showing off her camera to you, you catch a glimpse of Dan Heng smiling fondly–before you can call him out on that, Stelle and Caelus beat you to it, making him turn away with a blush on his face. March call them a bunch of childish idiots before offering to take a photo for you and Dan Heng
Mr Sunday is a breath of fresh air from the growing eagerness of the trio. He is respectful and also very pleasant to chat with. “Among the infinite vastness of the cosmos, finding someone whose heart you can resonate deeply with is no easy endeavour. But fate has its own ways, and when THEY have threaded the strings of destiny into a wonderful masterpiece, all is bound to happen as per their prophecy. For the long journey ahead, I wish you two nothing but happiness and joy, may your love be eternal and everlasting."
It's… a bit grand, you would almost think he's a priest officiating at a wedding but you appreciate the gesture nonetheless.
"The scenery from the Astral Express' windows is mesmerizing, don't you think so?"
You are spacing out, gazing at the stars of the universe when Dan Heng appears by your side. The iridescent vastness of the cosmos flickers by his eyes before softening into the emerald shade you've grown to love.
"Indeed, this spot offers an incredible panorama of the universe. It can ease your mind or perhaps… make it wander astray with thoughts." You place your palm against the glass, finger idly tracing the constellations from far away. "I've just talked to Mr Sunday, he has been pleasant company. However, his words left me pondering a bit…"
"Is that so? Sunday tends to say some very… thought-provoking things. Care to share them with me?" Dan Heng hands you a glass of your favorite drink, this must be the reason why he went to the bar earlier. You didn't tell him you were thirsty? How did he know?
"Well, don't you think it's fascinating how we manage to meet each other amidst the chaos of the universe? Among the billions of other people you could have met… fate brought me to you."
"Fate…? Truthfully, I don't really like its concept that much. I'd like to believe that us meeting each other, falling in love and choosing to stay in each other's life are conscious choices. It is per my own will that I remain by your side just as much as it is your own will that you board the Astral Express today. We walk the path that leads us to where we wish to be. As for me… I choose to walk this path because— because, I want you to be in my future."
He reaches out to tug a strand of hair behind your ears. The warmth of his fingers carefully gliding through your skin, the tenderness that he reserves only for you, the firmness in his decision when he lingers at your cheeks — Yes, they are all the choices he makes himself, to be with you.
"But if the constellations are not just erratically aligned but at the will of something omniscient and all-knowing. Then I hope all the paths I take will always lead me back to you."
Your boyfriend has to be the lamest lovable comedian ever. He sends you dad jokes found online and tells you clumsy pick up lines as if he has practiced them 30 mins in front of the mirror. But this time convinces you he truly has some hidden talent in wooing because your heartbeat turns uneven and volatile after what he says.
Seeing your reddened cheeks and shying eyes, he gently smiles a knowing smile before excusing himself to go retrieve the photos from earlier.
Eventually, you come to meet the rest of the Astral Express crew while you’re waiting for Dan Heng.
"Um hello,uh, are you the guest Dan Heng has brought?" The older man greets you first— Welt Yang, that's his name— Dan Heng told you before.
"Don't be so nervous, you seem even more on edge than our guest Welt. I am Himeko, the Astral Express' navigator. It is nice to finally meet you, I've heard a lot about you. It is great to finally be able to put a face to the name."
Mr Yang, seems to be more apprehensive than you are. There's this air of awkwardness that clings to him like a second coat but you can tell he's a genuinely kind and compassionate person, asking you about your home planet and inviting you to try out the delicacies at the bar.
Miss Himeko, however, seems a lot more put together. She's not too stern nor too laid back, she's comfortable to be around and carries a kind of grace that makes her respectable.
She begins to tell you small pieces of funny stories from when Dan Heng first joined the Express, his first trailblazing journey and how he came to befriend the rest. (During the time, she offers you a cup of coffee. Against Dan Heng’s advice and your need to be polite, you take one sip and then never again)
"I still remember when Dan Heng first joined us. He was so aloof and distant, always busy himself with the data bank and trying to minimize asking others for help. It's been a long journey since then though, and I'm glad to witness his growth as a person."
"He's finally got over his past and decided to move on to a new future, one where he's not chained by the shackles of the past or the burden of old duties. I'm even more happy that Dan Heng has found someone truly special to be in that future with him."
"Come visit the Express more often will you? Dan Heng doesn't verbalize it, but he misses you dearly sometimes."
Overall this is among the most stress-free experience ever, mainly because you’re not meeting his parents but his found-family, the people that has become the most important figures in his life
And somewhere among those lines, you’ve found yourself to be one of them too.
Phainon
Meeting Phainon's parents is also another stress-free experience, if not the most compared to the other HSR men mainly because he comes from a humble family of farmers so there's no class difference that you have to concern yourself with (no offense Mydei) and because Phainon tells you A LOT about his parents
Even when you've never met them before, you feel as if you've known them for a long time just from the amount of stories your boyfriend has told you.
So when he says he wants to bring you to Aedes Elysiae to meet his mom and dad, you are confident things can't go wrong! Pack your bags, wear your nicest attire, prepare some local cuisine from your hometown and you're set to go!
But if you think this isn't anything too intense then you're dead wrong 💀💀 It's not because of his parents at all. It's just that when Phainon said he wanted to properly introduce you to his parents, it means you're going to meet the entire village too.
"Phainon has a lover!"
"Phainon has a lover?!"
The moment you step foot into the village, a bunch of children rush out to greet you (or Phainon to be more exact). As Phainon introduces you as his lover, you're pretty sure some of the girls have wilted upon hearing that.
You can only console them with your limited number of candies and cookies. If you had known Phainon was such a famous celebrity among the village children, you would have brought more candies for them.
Congrats, you easily win the favor of these children with some sweet treats!
Phainon gently puts the young boy that is dangling on his down and walks towards you, still surrounded by young, curious kids asking you about life in Okhema.
"Have they been good? They didn't give you a hard time, did they?"
"Lovely kids really, I should've packed more candies for them." Looking at the last candy in your palm, you're already planning on what different flavors to bring the next time you visit Aedes Elysiae. Since you're in a good mood today, you decide to tease Phainon a bit.
"Well, have you been good?"
Surprised but not really taken aback, he grins and tilts his head at you. "Hopefully, since I also want a candy from you too."
When Phainon opens his mouth and gestures to you to feed it to him, the children point at him and call him sappy. You two laugh and continue to walk down the dirt path.
You should have known it, that Phainon is also well-beloved by the villagers as well. Farmers working on the field stop to wave at him, old ladies bring hot bread and fruits to welcome his return, even the dogs run out from the house to excitedly greet him??? (Your boyfriend is a certified Disney Princess)
And to each person that you two meet, he makes sure to introduce you as his lover. The villagers all smile warmly at you and compliment how lovely you two look together.
Phainon's parents are also very hospitable towards you. Right after they welcome their son with a hug, they immediately ask you about your trip and invite you inside to their humble abode.
Audata— Phainon's mother ushers you inside the house, she prepares you a cup of tea and a tray of fruits. Just like how Phainon told you, she's a warm and kind-hearted person, she spares no nice adjectives when it comes to complimenting you and ensures that you are comfortable in their house.
"Would you like some tea? How about a cup of jasmine tea or maybe black tea?"
"Dear, Phainon has brought home his lover, how can we be so mingy?" Hieronymus reminds his wife with a pat on her shoulder. Upon that, her eyes sparkle up.
"Oh you're right! I have some fine tea leaves that Cyrene gifted last time—"
"Ah, please, there's no need for that, I would love anything you have to offer, really!" You try to convince them that there's no need to give you such grand treatment but your insistence falls on deaf ears as Audata leaves to grab a kettle from the kitchen and Hieronymus takes Phainon out with him for some business.
Well, Phainon is their only child, so him finally bringing home his lover means a lot to them to the point they feel compelled to treat you as nicely as possible. It takes a lot of convincing for his mother to let you help out in the kitchen.
Turns out, Phainon and his father went out earlier to bring home a chicken, all to prepare a feast for you and Phainon. Unlike Audata, Hieronymus is not the overly excited parent, at least not outwardly. He shows his approval and acceptance of you through the forms of actions: going out of his way to bring a chicken for dinner, getting the finest honey to make honey suncake, buying freshly harvested olives to make juice. He's your typical father, showing love through actions
Audata doesn't hide her enthusiasm from you. She asks you about how you and Phainon met, what do you think of him back then, what do you think of him now, if Phainon has ever upset you (if you say yes, she just may have to have a very serious talk with her son). She even shows you Phainon's old belongings, telling you about how he used to play with wooden swords, the toy he loved as a kid, the comic book he adored as a teen and of course showing you baby Phainon photos! (Gave his mother a very difficult time since he was deadass 5kg/11 pound as an infant and continued to keep his baby fat late into his teen)
At the dinner table, there's roasted chicken, grilled ribs, fried fish and at least 4 different types of salad. Also it feels like a competition for the the three of them to pick food into your plate😭 (That's just how you know they see you as family now 🫶)
Reluctantly, you stuff your stomach with all of them. A long journey from Okhema with a slap-up meal is apparently a very bad combo. By the end of dinner, you feel very bloated, as if you could lie down and roll outside (No wonders Phainon was so chubby as a kid)
But even if you can't finish all of them, rest assured! You have a very willing living food dispenser by your side.
After dinner, Phainon's parents encourage you two to go for a walk even though both of you desperately ask them to let you help with the dishes.
The night breeze brushes past your skin, making your body instinctively curl inwards from the cold. Noticing your trembling body, Phainon takes the hem of his cloak and wraps it around your shoulder.
"Is this better?" You shuffled closer towards him until you could feel the warmth radiating off of his body and smile contently. "This is better."
You two sit in silence for a while, watching the wheat dance along the winds while admiring the diaphanous curtain of moonlight as it casts a dreamy sheen on the land.
"It is just like what you've told me, Aedes Elysiae is so serene and beautiful… How do you not get homesick all the time?" You glance at him, watching the moon bless him with the most breathtaking radiance ever.
"When do I not? I miss Aedes Elysiae all the time. But… having you be my side, cures that homesickness somehow." Phainon intertwines your fingers with his, gently brushing across the knuckles of your hand. Puzzled by his words, you wait for him to continue.
"Your gentle voice when you greet me every morning is as soft as the lullabies my mother sang to me when I was a kid, the warmth of your hands reminds me of days when I fell asleep on the sun-soaked grassland, even the light in your eyes bring me back to the constellations that I used to trace with my fingers. " As if to demonstrate, he brings his free hand to your face, following the trail from your temple to your cheekbone and jaw before stopping at your lips.
"In some ways, you are my home too."
The ensuing kiss leaves your longing heart wanting him more, but as the night grows colder, you both have to return home. Phainon gets called away by his father while you stand at the porch outside their house.
Stone-floor and wooden walls are all there is to this small home, tucked away in a far corner of Amphoreus where Oronyx has blessed the land with serenity and peace. You can spot the height marks on the porch column, each mark indicates the growth of Phainon, the years of love and happiness he grew up with.
"Khaslana has always been a tall kid. He already surpassed my height when he was 16." Phainon's mother—Audata walks to your side, admiring the traces of time etched in the wooden post.
"Indeed, even in Okhema, I've rarely seen anyone taller than him. I'm sure this is thanks to your years of tentative nurturing." She smiles at you, perhaps delighted by your compliment.
"Oh, thank you dear but I only did what a mother should."
She looks at you for a while, pondering what next words to say, how to tell you all about her worries and concerns. Eventually, she manages to get them out of her heart.
"People always praise my Khaslana for his selflessness. But as his mother, I wish he could be more selfish sometimes…"
"I'm sorry, that isn't very appropriate of me to say! Well, both his mom and dad are old now and we can't be by his side forever. But now that you're his family too, I hope you can be there for him through all of his arduous journeys."
"I know loving someone who's always too ready to burn himself for the world is no easy task. As his mother, I understand this and I know you do too. My dear, you are a very selfless person yourself—You have a beautiful soul. I, I'm very happy my son has met someone like you."
Her eyes are teary as she says this. The tears begin to roll down her face in beads, past the line of wrinkles and melasma— the cruel proof that time is beginning to dwindle, taking away all that is precious to Phainon.
You embrace her with a tender hug. Promising to take care of Phainon through all predicaments of life, to be there for him and be there with him for as long as time allows you to.
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