#sdb fics

It wasn't a big thing. Just the piling of a million little things until one was too many.

Well, whatever it was, it had her crumbled on her couch, hugging her plushie to simulate comfort, watching a comfort show, snuggled under a comfortable, fluffy blanket, stuffing her face with comfort food.

But it wasn't enough. Being alone during these moments was normal, but it was just silent suffering until she managed to piece herself back together to appear like a functional member of society again.

It'd been like this for years. So many years of dealing with it solo that she didn't even realize she could ask her partner for his help at first. She didn't have the energy for phone notifications, let alone contacting someone. All she managed was a simple hug emoji.

When she heard the telltale knock on her balcony door, she first jumped in surprise, then slowly sat up, trying to gather herself at least a little bit.

Hawks watched as she approached, wiping her eyes on her sleeves. Their meetings usually started with playful energy, but these times required gentleness, he'd learned.

“Hey, dove. I'm here.”

He closed the door behind himself gently, and brushed some hair from her forehead.

“Let's get you comfy again, yeah?”

She nodded, and followed him back to the couch. Her favourite corner had molded around her, and she easily slotted back into it.

“I'll get you some cold water?” he hummed, helping tuck her under the blanket. Once he earned another nod, he disappeared into the kitchen.

Not much later he reappeared, holding a water bottle with a straw. He sat down next to her, and held the straw to her lips.

“Thanks…” she murmured, letting him help her drink. She'd cried a lot already, and she probably would be crying more, after all.

He watched her, hand supportive on her knee, no judgement found in his gaze. Not about her old pajamas or greasy hair, not about all the snack wrappers on the coffee table, not about her puffy, tired eyes.

Once she was done, she placed the bottle down, and turned to look at his hand, seemingly gathering her courage. Finally, she glanced at his eyes, then buried her face in his shoulder, hand reaching to hold his.

“Oh. There we go”, he smiled, turning slightly for a more comfortable angle. He lifted his other hand to cup the back of her head, petting her unwashed hair with gentleness and affection one wouldn't expect from the number two hero. “I've got you.”

It's no surprise her eyes watered again. Just having her forehead against a person instead of a pillow or plushie made her feel incredibly safe. She snuggled closer, hiccuping quietly.

Hawks didn't say anything, just leaned to kiss the top of her head. He stayed there, eyes closed, listening to her, hurting for her pain but also glad that he could be there for her, that she trusted him this much.

“....Want me to hold you fully?” he asked gently, knowing that surprises could make it worse. He was glad to earn another nod, and gathered her into his arms, letting her forehead rest against his collarbone.

The moment he wrapped his arms around her, she broke, fully weeping into his shirt, her hands clutching the fabric. He held her through it, not too tight, not too loose, and didn't complain in the slightest, instead running his hand along her back comfortingly, placing featherlight kisses between murmured words into her hair.

“You've been so strong for so long. But you're allowed to not be strong sometimes. I'm proud of you no matter what.”

He wrapped his wings around them both, enclosing her in warmth, blocking what little light she had on in the room.

“Getting tired isn't a weakness. You're still human. And you're doing your best. More than your best, even.”

He lifted her face so he could meet her eyes, wiping a tear as he cupped her cheek.

“So you'd better not be cursing yourself out inside your head again”, he exhaled in a soft, sad laugh. “You wouldn't say them to anyone else. And I definitely wouldn't say them to you.”

He pressed his forehead to hers.

“We can cuddle and watch something chill. Whatever helps you recharge and feel better. Okay, dove?”

She would've nodded, but hummed softly instead.

“Thanks. Love you, Kei.”

He parted just enough to kiss her forehead.

“Love you too, y/n. Now let me take care of you”, he chuckled, brought her screensharing device closer with his feathers, and pressed play on her comfort show again, letting her melt into him to lazily watch the show.

Unsurprisingly, she eventually dozed off, feeling much calmer and safer in the arms of her favourite person.

Hawks just smiled affectionately, feeling lucky to be her anchor in the storm.

Whenever he tried to start a casual conversation with her, she focused on anything but him, her body language telling him she did not want to talk. Her replies were curt and he had to try hard to keep the conversation from dying.

He was pushy, yeah, but he knew not to push his luck. She was practically holding a weapon she could smack him with, after all. An everyman’s polearm - a broom.

So, he stopped approaching her. They just coexisted, him passing by her sweeping the streets sometimes, offering a polite wave as he jogged past her.

Then, on one rainy day, Sethos was caught enjoying the shower between his errands. He stood in the middle of the empty street, eyes closed and face lifted skyward as if to hug the rainfall.

But the rain suddenly stopped.

He opened his eyes in surprise and briefly met hers, before she handed her umbrella to him and dashed off. He was left there, staring at her disappearing form and the splatters of water as she ran.

He was confused, but shrugged the absurd encounter off with an amused smile.

“Heh, guess she doesn't hate me, after all. Interesting.”

Sethos loved being in the city. It was full of fascinating people, especially within the Akademiya. He loved learning about them, their stories, ideas and passions.

And now the curt sweeper girl had caught his interest.

He still politely greeted her when he passed by, and her responses were curt as ever, usually simply nodding and letting him pass. But now he read her behavior as shy and awkward instead of hateful.

His polite smile became a bit more genuine when he understood.

He kept noticing her in other places after that, too. She was often found sitting in random spots, holding a notebook she was very focused on, not paying attention to anyone who wondered what her deal was.

Sethos was one of them. He curiously eyed her every time he saw her, but she never lifted her face from her notebook.

One day she was sitting on a box behind Lambad’s Tavern, hand going wild as she worked on the notebook in her lap. Sethos noticed her, and decided to approach her for once.

She jumped when his voice cut through her concentration, having broken into her bubble.

“Soo. What’cha working on there?”

She immediately shut the notebook and looked away, clutching it to her chest.

“Heh, you were really into it. Sorry for spooking you.”

She didn't reply, no idea what to say, so she literally waved it off. He got the message, leaning against the railing next to her.

“You're a funny one, you know. I can never expect where you'll be sitting with that secret tome of yours. I’ve heard people call you a local cryptid because of it.”

That made her snort, and she immediately threw a hand up to cover her mouth.

His smile widened, proud of drawing a new reaction out of her.

“It's true, though. I've seen you on several branches of the Divine Tree, on a roof or two, and I swear I caught you behind a bush once. What's up with that?”

She scratched her cheek shyly, not expecting anyone to pay attention to her.

“...Inspiration”, she finally managed.

“Inspiration, eh? What's so inspiring about sitting behind a bush?”

She chuckled lightly in response.

“I just like switching spots. Different angles.”

"Riight, right, that makes sense. What do you need that inspiration for, then? Writing, drawing, homework?”

She turned the cover of the notebook towards him. It had ‘sketchbook’ written on it in fancy letters.

“Ohhh, an artist, I see. That's cool. You got the whole ‘vibe’ down too, now that I think about it.”

She drew the sketchbook back to herself again, shrugging with a small, amused hum.

“Quiet and mysterious. Who knows what's going on inside those covers”, he explained with a playful grin.

She was still curt, but her small smile gave him confirmation that she definitely didn't hate him.

“I’ll let you continue, then. Can't stop an artist when inspiration hits, after all.”

After seeing her nod and timidly wave at him, he stood back up with a satisfied smile. He waved in response and walked off, arms stretched behind his head as he went to continue on with his day.

From there on, he stopped to bother her for a moment or two whenever and wherever he caught her. She didn't seem willing to talk about art or her secret sketchbook, so he kept the conversation alive, talking about whatever. She was still curt and shy, but her snorts and amused huffs became a more common occurrence as days passed.

One day, after he was done telling one of his stories, she seemed particularly thoughtful.

“What's up? Remind you of something? Oh, oh, did I give you inspiration?” he grinned excitedly, pointing at her.

She took a moment to formulate her reply.

“..How do you always have something to talk about?”

He didn't expect that. She didn't seem annoyed, though..

“Heh, I’ve just seen and heard many interesting things. I like sharing mine, and learning more from the people I meet.”

“That simple?”

He shrugged casually.

“I’m a people person. I like talking and listening.”

Her face formed a strained smile as she looked away.

“My brain always goes blank when there's people around. It's like there's not a single thought in there.”

That seemed to confirm his assumption of her treatment of him before. She was just shy. Or socially anxious.

“Ah. More of an introvert, then?”

“...No, I want to be around people. I just… short circuit. Not very interesting company.”

“I think you're plenty interesting”, he stated matter-of-factly, “you've got me curious.”

That surprised her, and she turned to look in the general direction of his face, but still not meeting his eyes.

“You’re curious? About me?”

“Sure am. There's the sitting in random spots thing, your mystery book, how you're so focused you don't react to people gawking and talking about you right next to you…”

He counted with his fingers, amused but genuine.

“There's obviously a lot going on in there. I’m curious about what sorts of ideas you have. Art isn't exactly the biggest thing around the city, after all.”

She had to take a moment to take in his words.

“It's nothing special, really. Just stories, imaginary situations and encounters.”

“A bit of fantasy added to the ordinary, eh? That's fun. Care to give me an example?”

A bit nosy, maybe, but he was interested.

She looked away for a moment, not sure if she should or whether she even could produce an example for him. He seemed genuinely curious though, so she tried, and inspiration hit when she gazed down at the docks.

“Um, like, a long-awaited reunion happening down there. A tearful embrace…”

She suddenly felt very embarrassed.

“..That's dumb, isn't it? I can-”

“No, no, no, don't worry. I can see it. A bit of a romantic, aren't you?”

She blushed a little, but shrugged with a noncommittal chuckle.

“Comes with the whole art thing, I think.”

“Heh, makes sense. I like it.”

A moment of silence. It was comfortable to him, but she felt the need to fill it.

“U-um, thanks, for, you know, always talking to me.”

He wasn't expecting that, either, and hummed in question, grinning curiously.

“...I like talking to people. It's just..difficult”, she continued, wanting her thanks to reach him properly.

“Well, I’m always down for a chat. I'll keep stopping by to bother you, then?”

“You aren't bothering me. But yeah. I'd like that. Maybe I’ll learn some tips and tricks from the master of social skills”, she joked with a soft smile.

“Sounds like a plan.”

And so they continued their occasional chats. He often ended up stopping people to talk with them, anyway, but it was nice to have confirmation that he actually wasn't bothering her.

His company gradually helped her relax and learn to imitate some of his social techniques, like asking questions and using more open body language.

Eye contact was still an issue for her, though. And to Sethos’ surprise, it bugged him a little.

He was straightforward and social, so eye contact came naturally to him. Not everyone he talked with looked back into his, so he knew it wasn't easy for everyone. And, to be fair, his eyes were kind of intense, which was a blessing and a curse sometimes.

Yet, somehow, he couldn't shake the thought of wanting to meet her eyes. She was always looking somewhere else when they talked. Usually her sketchbook.

He had only met her eyes once, by accident that time she handed him her umbrella. They were bright and curious, almost striking in the muddiness of the downpour.

He remembered them clearly.

Still, he didn't want to make her uncomfortable, so he did his best so she could relax when they chatted. He wouldn't push her, make her feel like she had to do it.

So, instead, he focused on learning more about her and her ideas and visions, and loved telling her his stories since they seemed to inspire her to some extent.

He learned to pick up on the change in her expression when she moved from listening to him to formulating an idea.

It was cute.

He thought positively about people, appreciated their qualities, both inside and out, but it wasn't often that he considered a person cute.

That thought lingered in his mind, too.

He didn't think it affected how he interacted with her, but he unconsciously became a bit more friendly, almost flirty at times. He often grinned when they talked, initiated playful physical contact - like poking or gently kicking her - and couldn't help but give her tons of honest compliments, especially on her art.

Her reactions made her even more cute to him. She blushed at times, yes, but she was playful in return, smacking him with her pencil or broom or rolling her eyes with that amused smile of hers. And she gladly showed him her work now.

One time after their brief chat when she was working, he was left with a single thought in his mind:

“Heh, shucks. I like her.”

It wasn't a world changing revelation, just made him connect the dots and realize how much his way of interacting with her had changed.

…And he was pretty sure she liked him too.

He kept interacting with her like usual, honestly just enjoying what they had. A comfortable friendship with banter, intrigue and plenty of laughter.

But it would be a lie to say that he wasn't also gauging more on what she could be feeling.

He picked his best stories, told them with a bit more flair, and gave her more casual compliments.

And, well, if their knees happened to touch when they were talking, or his playful pokes lingered on her skin a moment too long to be read as platonic, he didn't make a big deal out of it.

One day Sethos caught her sketching on a sturdy branch of the Divine Tree, easily accessible but not immediately visible to the townsfolk.

He chuckled and approached her, nimbly making his way to her in the tree.

“You're an enigma, you know that?” he grinned as he sat down next to her.

“It’s simple, really. The view is great from here. So many people to see, so much inspiration to gather.”

He looked down. The citizens were enjoying their evening activities; entering and exiting the tavern, boats docking, adventurers returning to get their rewards for their daily commissions.

It was interesting. He preferred to be mingling down there with them, but stepping back and watching the hustle and bustle from a different angle made him appreciate it in a new way.

He might not have lived in the city for long, but watching all those people do their thing made him realize how lucky he was to be around so many people nowadays. He grew up in the desert, with only the people of the temple as his company, after all.

He was gazing down with a gentle and slightly solemn expression, happy to be where he was now. He had friends, connections, and now… her, too.

He turned to look at her, about to share his appreciation for the view too, but to his surprise, he met her eyes. She had been watching him, curious about how quiet he went and what he was thinking of.

Her eyes held a hint of worry, but enough affection to make him stumble with his words. This time it was Sethos who broke eye contact, turning to look back down.

“Y-yeah. I get it. All those people have their own lives and stories to tell.”

“Exactly!” she chuckled and pointed the end of her pencil at him. “A gold mine of inspiration and ideas.”

They both loved getting ideas from people, huh? Their ways were different, sure, but maybe they were pretty similar, after all.

Stories, curiosity, ideas and inspiration. They worked well together.

That train of thought suddenly made him feel the need to communicate his feelings to her. Like his soul was calling out, wanting to connect with this girl whose company he had been enjoying more and more.

“You know, you remind me of the Moon sometimes”, he started, fittingly artistic for what he was about to do.

“Sounds fun and poetic. Care to elaborate?”

“You're always present, I just gotta know where to look. Mysterious, but mesmerizing.”

“Hehe, thank you.”

She smiled, but didn't seem to catch the full meaning of his words, so he continued.

“What I’m trying to say is, I like you. You draw my attention in a way no one else does.”

Well that definitely caught her attention.

“You do?”

Their eyes met again, and he nodded, not ashamed or embarrassed, but ever so slightly nervous.

She cleared her throat to answer him.

“...I always thought you were like the Sun. You're warm, fun, and easily draw people to you.”

She wasn't as calm as he was, but hoped her indirect poetic message reached him too.

“Does that mean what I think it does?” he couldn't help but ask, a hopeful grin on his face.

She moved her gaze down and nodded.

“I-I like you too. I feel like I can relax around you.”

Both sat in silence, soft and giddy grins on their faces, taking in the big words hanging in the air.

They turned to look back down at the citizens buzzing around the streets, the shy mood eventually becoming comfortable again, and moved on into imagining what kinds of adventures the people below them had experienced today.

~

Hello. We're happy to hear people from other nations are interested in studying in Sumeru. The Akademiya has all sorts of options for those who wish to learn. The entrance exams are a challenge, however, so we recommend preparing for it well.

Attached to this letter are a select few documents I often use in my teachings. I hope they're of use to you. Do send another letter if you wish to proceed.

~

She eagerly read through the attached documents. The questions weren't very hard, but some of the text took a couple reads.

So, she got comfortable in her study, grabbed some books, and made sure she understood everything.

When she did, she sent a ‘thank you’ letter, politely asking for more documents.

~

“Heyy, Tighnari, the folks directed another letter to you.”

“Ah, thank you.”

“Why don't they deal with this stuff themselves?”

“Master Naphis is often busy, so these more down-to-earth matters are occasionally delegated to me. It can be a bit of a nuisance, but sometimes I'm positively surprised.”

Tighnari accepted the letter from his friend, who ended up as a mail carrier again.

“Oh, it's the same person.”

“Someone with a grudge? No, wait, is it a secret admirer~?”

“Just someone interested in enrolling. I sent some documents over last time, and she's already asking for more.”

“A bunch of nerds, all of you, hehe.”

Tighnari just deadpanned at him, and started gathering more documents to send.

~

By her third letter both Tighnari and the assigned-again mail carrier Sethos recognized her envelope and handwriting. Sethos stopped in front of Tighnari's house and did his usual playful knock.

The response was a barely audible ‘come in’. Sethos stepped in, finding Tighnari bedridden.

“Whoa, are you okay?”

“..Yes, just a bit queasy.”

“Well, that's good, I guess. What happened?”

“Ugh, heatstroke. Collei and I went to get some samples…”

“Glad she was with you, then.”

He waved the letter in his hand.

“Anyway, the same person wrote again. You still haven't scared her off, huh?”

“I haven't sent anything particularly difficult yet. Besides, she seems to find the documents interesting.”

Sethos was about to hand the envelope to Tighnari, but he gestured towards his desk instead.

“I'm in no condition to read or write right now. Mind being my secretary for a minute?”

“What's the hurry? Couldn't it wait until you're feeling better?”

“She's on a roll, hungry and excited to learn. I don't want to make her wait. Besides, I already have some documents ready from my previous lecture.”

“I can't deal with you sometimes”, Sethos huffed, but walked to his desk to sit down to read the letter out loud.

“‘Thank you again, master Tighnari. Your letters and documents have been a great help. I've already gained a completely different kind of appreciation for the flowers I see every day. It's like they're sparkling now that I know more about them.’ Pft, she drew some nice sparkly flowers here.”

“She does little doodles every time. Continue.”

Sethos grinned, cleared his throat dramatically, and continued reading.

“‘We seem to be following a lesson plan, so please send over whatever documents you find most fitting. Kind regards, y/n.’”

“See? She enjoys learning.”

“Heh, apparently.”

“The documents are in the top drawer. I've pinned them together.”

Sethos dug around, and once he confirmed they're the right ones, he folded them into a new envelope.

“I don't usually write back much. Just, I don't know, tell her that it's nice to teach someone who's so enthusiastic, even if remotely.”

“You got it, boss.”

Sethos grinned, and began to write.

Hiya, your usual mail carrier here! Tighnari is currently bedridden - just heatstroke, he'll live - so I'm his secretary for a bit. He wants me to write that “it's fun to teach someone who's so enthusiastic, even if remotely”. We'll try to keep an eye on him, so you just focus on your studies and flower shop, ok?

He tried not to grin mischievously as he drew some sparkly little flowers too, and slid the letter into the envelope.

“You rest now, I'll go drop this off. Okay?”

“Yes, thank you.”

And so he did, and went to run to the city, fast on his feet like always.

~

She was surprised to see the little doodles in the usually official-looking letter she got, and it made her smile that someone had noticed and maybe even liked her own doodles.

She did the work as always, went through everything properly, and stopped to do more research if something stumped her.

Eventually she wrote back, putting down her thoughts on the documents and her occasional question. She continued her little drawings, and this time doodled some on the envelope itself, as a little nod to the mail carrier secretary person.

~

Sethos immediately recognized the envelope again when it was handed to him. Seeing the doodles on the cover made him smile in surprise, and he soon ran to Tighnari, as had become a habit by now.

“Knock knock, your long-distance student wrote again.”

“I’m here, come in.”

Sethos stepped in, finding Tighnari at his desk.

“Hiya. What'cha working on?”

“Some assignments for Collei. She has an exam soon, so we're hard at work.”

“Got time to write to our florist friend?”

“To be honest, not right now. Could I ask you to write for me again?”

“Eh, maybe this one time”, Sethos grinned, not really minding the request.

He settled down on Tighnari's bed with paper and a pen, and read her letter first. He asked Tighnari the questions she had written down, and recorded the answers to the best of his ability.

Heyy, I'm playing secretary again! Tighnari didn't really give me anything to write, though, so I'm winging it, heh. He's busy with some assignments for another student of his, so you have to deal with my chicken scratch. Oh, I'm Sethos, by the way. Not actually a mailman, or a secretary, I just do a lot of errands. Anyway, good luck with your studies!

P.S. Your doodles are fun.

He added some sparkly flowers again, and even a cute little rishboland tiger doodle.

He gathered the appropriate documents with Tighnari’s help, and sealed the envelope.

“Your smug expression is making me doubt your professionalism”, Tighnari said, squinting his eyes.

“What? Me? I'm as professional as a non-professional can get”, Sethos just laughed in response.

“I'm doubtful, but you wrote last time too and she replied, so you can't be too bad.”

“See? I've got it, teach.”

~

To no one's surprise, Tighnari wrote the letters from then on.

But, to y/n’s surprise, Sethos started doodling on the envelopes instead. When Tighnari sealed them, he took them back to the city, and did a few tiny doodles on their back before sending them forward.

Then, one day, Sethos was handed two letters instead of one. The usual proper letter for Tighnari, and one that was addressed to him. He chuckled softly and sat down to read it.

Seems like master Tighnari caught you meddling with his professional letters, eh? Haven't heard from you since the tiger doodle.

“Heh, her tiger looks way better than mine.”

We're practically friends by now, and if I'm going to move to Sumeru to enroll properly, it'd be nice to actually know some people beforehand. So. Hi, officially. Sethos, a silly errand runner guy? I'm y/n, florist, Chenyu Vale, Yilong Wharf. Here's a doodle of me.

“Wow, she's good.”

No pressure to reply if you don't want to, you just felt like a friendly person so I decided to be brave and try. As a friendly little offering, I put in some locally made tea and a drawing I did of some fluff-fleece goats we have around here.

Your friend(?), y/n

Sethos smiled softly as he read the letter and studied her drawings. He's definitely going to write back.

He immediately got to work when he got home that evening.

Hello! Heh, yeah, we're friends. I do have an actual job, too, but I just like to run a lot of errands. It's fun. And I get to meet tons of people, as you can see.

I'm friends with Tighnari and his previously mentioned other student as well. Her name is Collei, she's young but very hardworking. Our usual group also has Cyno, the General Mahamatra (a judge/cop I guess?) who seems intimidating but is actually really funny.

I'm from the desert, but I live in the city now. I do like hiking, though, and often end up finding lost or troubled adventurers everywhere. Sumeru is never boring, heh.

I'm not as good at drawing as you, but here's a scribble that's supposed to look like me, hehe.

Your friend(!), Sethos

~

Sethos’ letter was received with a surprised grin. She wasn't sure if he'd write back, after all.

Hi! I visit Fontaine a lot, and get a good view of both the rainforest and desert from up there. The trees are scarily big and the desert is so vast I'd definitely get lost there. There's plenty of pyramids and temples from what I can tell, and I'm super curious about the blue bubbly tree towering over everything! It's really pretty.

I wouldn't call my exploration of Chenyu Vale hiking, but I do walk around a lot. It helps me relax and appreciate the beauty of nature and all that. I also walk to pick up my flowers from several locals who grow them.

I included charms made of clearwater jade for each of you. There's a jewellery merchant in my neighbourhood who makes them. I would like to learn more about what you and your friends like, though, so whenever I'm inspired to send little gifts, they aren't something none of you care about, hehe.

Anyway, until next time!

She did related doodles all over, like the shapes of the biggest temples and the bubbly tree she loves. She then sealed everything and sent it on its way.

~

Hiya! Yeah, the desert is big, and there are temples and ruins everywhere. Lots of people want to go digging for treasures around there, which is why I keep running into half dead adventurers trying not to get buried in sand. I'm still not sure whether it's funny or sad.

The big bubbly tree you're talking about is called “Harvisptokhm”. The area around it is pretty, I do recommend visiting the Vourukasha Oasis sometime if you get the chance. It has its roots (hehe) deep in Teyvat’s history, but that's way too much for a fun little letter like this. The ruins in the desert are also proof of times long gone. It's fascinating.

But, back to the here and now. Tighnari is all about plants, as you know. Collei is often busy, but I think she likes sewing? Cyno… consider this my warning; he's obsessed with Genius Invocation TCG. Do with that info as you will.

They all liked the charms you sent, by the way. Collei and Tighnari prepared some bookmarks for you as thanks. The pressed flowers are a Sumeru rose and a kalpalata lotus. Cyno… sent some starter cards.

As for me… I put in a mourning flower I picked a while back. They grow around the previously mentioned oasis! I'm not too familiar with plants, but these ones are funny to me.

~

Hii!

My studies are going well, even if it's just to prepare for actual classes. Maybe someday soon I'll actually be able to become a real student there, hehe. The questions occasionally stump me, but it's nothing too difficult, so I'm still excited.

I'm planning on visiting Fontaine again soon. I often go to get some Fontainian flowers in my shop, they're so different from all other plants. Some even look like they're made of water!

…hehe, sorry, I'll switch off from nerd mode. So. Do you have other hobbies aside from hiking? I like to go out to watch performances at the local teahouse. We have a Wushou Dance Troupe here, they're fun! I can't really play any music myself, but I do enjoy singing on my walks sometimes, hehe.

The flowers you guys sent were amazing, by the way. Absolutely made my week. And tell Cyno that I'm learning how to play his beloved card game. Emphasis on “learning”...

Anyway, have a nice day! :)

~

Hello hello!

Every time you sound more and more like our local nerds, hehe. You'll fit right in.

Hobbies? I like cooking, it's especially fun when I gotta be creative on my hikes. Sometimes it ends up amazing, other times… barely passable.

We have a theater here for performances as well. One of our friends is a dancer there, we go watch her shows sometimes. She even performed during our Archon’s birthday celebration! You’ll have to visit the theater too sometime.

I do like to entertain myself with a lyre on quiet camping nights, too. The clear starry sky above, campfire crackling, meat grilling and some soft tunes… Ah, there aren't many things better than that.

~

She noticed the stupid, brief tinge of jealousy at the mention of the dancer friend, but immediately stifled it. She barely knows the guy, getting jealous is just insane.

She slapped her cheeks and sat down to respond.

Stars, food, music and a campfire? That does sound perfect. Especially in the desert, I'm assuming. Unobstructed view of the stars, the warm fire when the night starts to get cold…. You're almost making me jealous, hehe.

That was closer to the truth than she'd like, but she left it in anyway. It's not like he’d suspect another meaning for it.

That reminds me of my childhood, actually. Me and my family climbed up to one of the mountains nearby, and we had snacks and tea while seeing the sights in every direction. My parents are enjoying their retirement now and travel as much as they can, and my siblings have their own jobs so I rarely see them either.

Well, that's what growing up does to a person, I'd assume. Not to sound like an old person though, I'm in my mid twenties, I swear, hehe.

~

Family hiking trips? That sounds nice. Now I'm jealous. Hmm, no, desert camp nights are still better, hehe.

My grandfather often took me camping, hunting and exploring. He taught me everything I know, even combat. I'm a force to be reckoned with, you know!

Do you ever need to fight? Chenyu Vale must have its own share of monsters and predators, after all. Sumeru has tigers and fungi, and the occasional treasure hoarder or hilichurl. I do occasionally use my trusty polearm, but I think I prefer my bow. Electro bolts are preeetty nifty in defending oneself, hehe.

He hoped the playful boasting distracted her from the lack of mentioning other family members.

~

As I do walk alone a lot, I have had to learn basic self defence skills. Dendro isn't that useful in combat by itself, but a few swipes of my claymore usually do the trick. I can be a destructive force too if I wish, I'm not just flowers and sparkles either!

(Here's a doodle of my beloved blade.)

Your grandpa sounds nice. My parents taught me a lot, but they were more interested in herbs than flowers, so I've had to do tons of studying growing up. I never knew my grandparents, I think they lived closer to Liyue Harbor.

Oh, I'm finally going to visit Fontaine tomorrow! Another plant run, but I'm gonna go see the magic show I've been hearing a lot about.

Master Tighnari's also been sending tougher assignments, but I guess that means that the exam is getting closer. Wish me luck!

~

Dendro, eh? You'll really be right at home in Sumeru, then. Both Tighnari and Collei also have dendro visions. Me and Cyno wield electro ones. Easy aggravate teams!

I bet your parents’ teachings were useful despite everything. Collei is studying medicinal herbs too, I think. She wants to help others. You'd get along well, I know it.

“She was honest about sad things too, so maybe it's okay for me too. Just a little.”

I can't remember my actual family, I was raised by my adoptive grandfather. I'm not complaining, though, he was wise and kind. And patient - apparently I was a wild kid, heh. I still get comments about being difficult to control to this day.

I've also heard about the magic show, I think. The twins, right? Fontainian tourists often recommend them to locals here. I hope that it was fun!

But yeah, Tighnari mentioned that the entrance exams are approaching, I think he'll talk more about the logistics in his next letter. Good luck!

~

The Fontaine visit was great as always, and the magic show was amazing. I even got a signed card from Lyney - Lynette isn't very big on fan meetups, hehe.

Wild kid, eh? So was I. Climbed trees and kept spooking the goats and people's pets. Oops. I've calmed down, though. Calm as the breeze~

That's me trying to calm myself down by the way. Entrance exams next week, it turns out. I've been cramming to the best of my ability, but running a shop at the same time is tough. But I'm tough too, so I'm managing!

So, apparently I'll be coming to Sumeru next week. There will probably be plenty of others coming for the exams too, but keep an eye out, maybe we'll meet face to face.

Here I come, nation of wisdom!!

~

Sethos was both excited and nervous for her. This exam could mean big changes for her, after all.

Well, he was also excited and slightly nervous to meet her. He has plenty of friends and great social skills, sure, but it's a new thing for him to only know someone via sending letters. They're friends, though, so he's mostly excited.

He did his best to stomp down the nervousness, because it was making him act weird. He couldn't help looking around all day, trying to figure out who matched the doodle she had sent ages ago.

He was just excited to meet his new friend, that's all.

He wasn't wondering at all whether she'd really be just as fun, nice and spunky as she seemed.

Turning around to look at another group walking past him, he forcefully turned his soft smile into his usual friendly grin, and exchanged polite greetings with them.

~

Eventually, when the test was finally over and she could relax, she started walking around town to look for her friends. It didn't take long for her to be stopped by a young guy with big canine ears and a tail.

“Hi there. You're one of those who came in for entrance exams today, right?”

“Y-yes, I am.”

“My friends and I are looking for a particular student, and you seem to match the description I got. Would you happen to be y/n?”

She was stunned, and grinned excitedly.

“Yes! That's me!”

“Good, I thought so. Come on, let's go find the others. I'm Tighnari, by the way.”

“Master Tighnari? It's so nice to meet you! Thanks for all your help, I've learned so much!”

“It's nothing big, really. But I'm glad you're enjoying learning more about botany.”

They continued their nerdy but friendly chatting as they walked around the city. They ran into Collei, who was speaking to - and apparently trying to escape from - a twin tailed lady. Tighnari exchanged a few polite words with her, and when she finally left, he introduced y/n to Collei.

“I-I've been wanting to meet you! We're practically classmates, after all”, Collei smiled softly.

“Heh, yeah. Me too. I've heard so much about you guys, it's great to finally have faces for the names!”

She couldn't help looking around for the other two people she knew. Well, maybe she was a little more excited to meet one than the other, but still. She was grinning.

“I have an idea where Cyno might be at this time of day”, Tighnari sighed, and led the way to what seemed to be a cozy café.

On their way down the ramps, however, they heard someone running down to catch up with them.

“Tighnari, wait! Have you seen-”

The steps slowed down and soon stopped. The group turned around.

“Seems you have”, Sethos grinned widely, eyes immediately finding y/n’s as he approached the trio. He turned to her. “Would you happen to be my nerdy florist pen pal?”

“You certainly look like the one drawing I was provided of my pen pal. Messy hair and all”, she replied, immediately smitten with his beautiful green eyes.

“And you look exactly like your cute little doodle.”

She laughed softly and held out her hand, still looking into his eyes. He really liked her smile already, and happily shook her hand. It was soft compared to his slightly calloused one.

“Nice to finally meet you, Sethos. I'm y/n.”

He did his best to hide how his smile threatened to widen.

“Welcome to Sumeru city. We've been waiting for you.”

The other two pairs of eyes watched them with amused smiles.

“One more to go, then. If we have any luck, he won't make us play Genius Invocation when we find him”, Tighnari sighed.

They weren't lucky, but at least they had cafè goods to ease the pain.

~

When the first reds and oranges of the sunset started to paint the sky, it was time for y/n to start heading back home for the night.

“It's been amazing to meet you guys, but I have to go”, she smiled sadly.

“We can definitely fit in one more game”, Cyno tried to protest. She had been the weakest denier, so she ended up playing several games with him. It was certainly a way to relax and make friends, at least.

“I really should go, I want to walk while it's still somewhat light out. Sorry, Cyno. I promise to play more next time.”

She then turned to Tighnari.

“When will I know the results of the exam?”

“Within two weeks, I'd say.”

“You know your stuff, you'll definitely get in!” Sethos nudged her, and Collei echoed his words as well.

“Yeah, you got it!”

“Hehe, I sure hope so. Sumeru is amazing, I can already imagine living here.”

She then gathered her things and got up.

“I'll see and hear from you guys again, no matter the results, okay?”

“Of course. We're friends now”, Tighnari replied, and the others nodded.

“Bye for now, then. I'll miss your faces!” she laughed, made eye contact with Sethos specifically, and finally headed out with friendly waves from both parties.

When she was gone, everyone turned to Sethos. He just crossed his arms behind his head and leaned back in his seat.

“Told you she was nice.”

“She was”, Tighnari nodded.

A moment of silence.

“You can walk with her to Vayuda Harbor, you know. We won't make a big deal about it”, Tighnari sighed and leaned forward to rest his chin on his hand. “I'm pretty sure she wanted you to, anyway.”

Sethos looked at his friends, and couldn't help the heat rising on his cheeks when he saw the hint of smugness on Cyno's usually expressionless face.

“It’s only polite to walk your new friend to the harbor”, Collei added, trying to make the situation less awkward.

“Yeah, yeah, yeah, I'm going”, Sethos finally agreed, exhaling heavily to cover his eagerness to run after her. He excused himself swiftly, and dashed after her once he was outside.

~

She sighed sadly as she hoisted her bag on better and headed towards the back gate of the city. She was going to miss her new friends. Well, she already did.

When she heard the quickly approaching steps behind her, she couldn't help but turn around with hopeful eyes. Sethos easily caught up with her, immediately more awkward than he thought he'd be.

“I.. thought I should walk you to the harbor. The path isn't very clear and all that”, he tried to explain himself.

“Aw, thanks. It's been a while since I've walked with someone, so it was difficult to ask, hehe.”

Sethos pocketed his hands, and led the way, his smile now undoubtedly wider than usual.

“So. How'd you like the gang?”

“You had described them perfectly. Can't wait to meet them again.”

“Just them?” Sethos found himself saying.

“Eh, I could tolerate seeing your face again too, I guess”, she grinned back.

“Yours is very tolerable too, I suppose.”

He was surprised by his own words. Was he flirting??

Slightly flushed, he cleared his throat and directed the conversation elsewhere.

“Did you run into any trouble on your way here from the harbor?”

“There were a lot of others walking, too, so not really. I did notice a group of cute little mushroom guys at a distance, but nothing happened.”

“That's good, then. But you could have defended yourself, of course.”

“Of course.”

She materialised her claymore in her hands and dramatically held it towards him.

“Very dangerous indeed”, he chuckled, and held the tip of the blade to look at it up close. “It's very nice. Where did you get it?”

“My parents brought it for me from the Windblume festival in Mondstadt a few years ago.”

“That’s sweet.”

He took out his beloved bow, and held it towards her.

“I got this from my grandfather. I'm not sure whether he made it, found it or bought it, but I still treasure it.”

She ran her fingers along the bow, studying the design.

“It's really cool. Can I try shooting?”

“Sure, now I wanna see that”, he shrugged playfully and handed her the bow and an arrow.

With little effort, she drew back the string, and aimed at a log nearby. She was strong, but not good at aiming, so the arrow flew into the ground nearby instead.

Still, Sethos was impressed.

“A little practice with aiming and you'll become an archer yet!” he grinned and walked out to pick up the arrow. He also took the chance to force himself to look away from her for a moment.

She was nice, fun, smart AND strong?

He'll be in trouble at this rate.

“Would you like to try my claymore?” she chuckled and held the blade out to him. He shrugged and took it, testing its weight in his grip.

“It's a quality blade for sure.”

He did a few swings, certain that it could cause serious damage.

“I prefer moving swiftly, which is difficult with a heavy weapon, but you'll definitely be able to protect yourself with this.”

“Hehe, yup. I'm not super fast anyway, so I'll make up with strength. I carry a lot of flower boxes for long distances, you know.”

She playfully brought her arms up to flex them for a moment, but relaxed once Sethos handed her claymore back to her.

“You're a very interesting person, you know”, Sethos grinned.

“Right back at you, buddy. You seem like a people person, but still somehow mysterious. I dunno.”

“Guess we gotta continue getting along to uncover each other’s secrets, huh?”

“Eh, doesn't sound too bad”, she chuckled.

They walked in silence for a moment, both looking around with content smiles. When she knelt down to look at some flowers, he couldn't help but admire her. Her eyes sparkled, her smile was warm as ever, and he wanted to run his fingers through her soft, shiny hair, maybe even style and braid it…

“This one is really pretty. A Padisarah… right?”

He jumped when she spoke up, immediately looking anywhere but at her.

“Y-yeah, I think so.”

He awkwardly scratched the back of his head as he forced himself to look at the flower and answer properly.

“It is. It can be used to make Padisarah Pudding, heh.”

Her expression brightened even more. Archons, he was in trouble.

“I gotta try that next time then!”

She looked at the flower for a while longer, and eventually stood back up.

“Had to nerd out for a moment. I'm back now.”

“I'm used to being around plant nerds at this point, you know. No need to apologize.”

She chuckled softly in response.

“Heh, thanks. I'll try my best not to drown you in botany jargon, anyway.”

“I am beyond grateful”, he joked, but wouldn't mind seeing and hearing more of her nerdiness. It was cute.

Some time later Sethos stopped walking, noticing something moving somewhere close by. She stopped too, confused and immediately on edge.

“What is it?” she whispered.

He carefully looked around them, eventually determining where the sounds came from. He immediately relaxed.

“Just a rishboland tiger. It's keeping watch, but doesn't seem ready to pounce.”

She followed his gaze and found the tiger. Sethos gestured for her to continue walking so they'd leave the beast be.

“They're cuter than I thought they'd be. Also somehow they look like you.”

“That sounds like a compliment, so thank you, but how, exactly?”

“I dunno. The eyes, maybe? Something in the vibes or colors? I have no idea, actually.”

“Well, I'll take that, anyway”, he chuckled softly, slightly flushed at her odd yet kind words.

“Are they dangerous?”

“They’re very territorial so they do sometimes jump down from their hiding spots to ambush people, but they aren't that bad if you're quick enough or know how to defend yourself.”

“Wow. Gotta keep my eyes open when walking, then.”

“That's always good.”

Eventually they started approaching the harbor. It had taken a good while, but it was still too soon.

She turned to look at him.

“Thanks for walking with me, Sethos. You didn't have to do that.”

“It's nothing, really. And, well, I wanted to, anyway.”

His face gained color for the hundredth time that day, but so did hers.

“You're so sweet. I'm glad we met, hehe.”

“..Yeah. Me too. You're great company.”

“Aw, thanks. You're making me blush”, she practically giggled.

He unconsciously brought his hand up to scratch his face.

“Right back at you…”

A moment of awkward, but happy silence.

“Ah, the boat looks like it's gonna leave soon.”

“True, you should hurry.”

She didn't move at all.

“I'm gonna miss you guys.”

“We'll miss you too, but you're definitely getting accepted into the Akademiya. We'll be seeing you again very soon, I know it!”

“Heh, you're the best.”

She tentatively held her hands out, asking for a hug. He happily complied to her request, not able to ignore the way the contact made his chest tighten, even if the hug was very brief.

“Now go, or you'll miss your boat. We'll be here, waiting for you.”

“Yeah. I’ll see you soon, Sethos.”

“...Yeah. See you soon.”

They waved goodbye, and went their separate ways for now.

~

Some time and a few letters later, the exam results came out.

She was accepted.

It didn't take her long to delegate her shop to a worthy successor, pack her things, and move over to the dorms in the city.

Her new friend group was already waiting in the harbor to help carry her things. The move went smoothly, thanks to them.

Sethos’ enjoyment of running errands was obvious now that she saw him in action. She was just doing her own things, but kept running into him everywhere, and always stopped to exchange a few words.

Everyone could see how much they enjoyed chatting. Tighnari, Cyno and Collei had front row seats, but kept their teasing to a minimum. Usually.

With time the group grew closer, and the two especially so. Now that they weren't limited by distance, they hung out a lot, and casual physical contact became a normal thing for them. A bit gross, sometimes even sickeningly so, yet still somehow cute. Hair ruffles, nudges, pokes…

Sethos’ wish to style her hair also came true, and it was just as soft as he had imagined. She was very happy with the result, too, so he could definitely do it again. As soon and as often as possible, really.

~

One day - to no one's surprise, really - he stopped her for a chat, and handed her a familiar looking envelope.

“We don't need letters anymore, do we?” she grinned, but accepted it nevertheless. “Want me to open it now or later?”

“...Now, preferably.”

She nodded, and excitedly opened the envelope. The only thing inside was a pressed rainbow rose bookmark.

“Aww, thank you, Sethos, I love it! Where'd you even get this? They only grow in Fontaine”, she gasped, marveling at the colorful flower.

“I had to pull a few strings, heh. But it had to be this one.”

She carefully studied the bookmark. It was truly beautiful, and she'd definitely treasure it. She was grinning happily, until she looked back at him.

He was looking at her, more nervous than she'd ever seen him. His eyes flicked back down to the bookmark, and then up at her.

Then it clicked.

“Have you, possibly, maybe, been looking into flower languages or something?” she asked shyly, almost whispering.

“Yes”, he replied simply.

“..Is this what I think it is?”

“..Yes.”

“..Are you sure?”

“..Rainbow roses represent passion and.. romantic encounters, so… Yes.”

She turned the bookmark in her hands, shy but impossibly happy. She then took a book from her bag, carefully placed the bookmark inside it, put it back, and reached for his hands.

“That was such a sweet yet cheesy move.”

“I've been working on this for a good while, you know. But it was worth it.”

A tender and blissful moment of silence.

“Heh. I never knew falling in love could be so easy”, she smiled, blindingly bright.

He brought their joined hands up and tentatively planted a gentle kiss on her knuckles. He couldn't stop the stupid grin and soft flush rising on his face.

“Me neither. Yet here we are.”

Y/n, Cyno and Sethos had grown up together within the walls of the temple. None of them really remembered their real families, and maybe it was better off that way. A kid didn't need to know if their parents had died or sold their child, after all.

Regardless of their backgrounds, they had found a home. They were fed, educated, trained, and got plenty of free time to play with each other, too.

What more could a little kid need?

Definitely not a test of whether a fragment of a god likes them or not.

But that is exactly what the children of the temple had to go through.

~

“It looks scary, I don't want to-!”

“Y/n, there's nothing to be afraid of. If he doesn't pick you, you'll be fine. If he does, it's a marvelous thing and a great honor.”

The little girl was gently but firmly pushed towards the pulsating fragment, already reacting to the presence of people.

“I don't-!”

“Y/n, go! Now!”

She didn't have a choice. Small fists clenched and tears in her eyes, she walked towards the fragment. It sparked and pulsed in place, as if studying her.

Then it let out a violent hiss, and she stumbled on her behind, scrambling away as soon as she got on her feet.

“Good job, y/n”, the adults briefly smiled, petting her hair, “you can go now. He didn't pick you.”

She ran off, still crying, barely noticing how another kid was called in for his turn.

She ran through the temple halls to her favourite spot, a tiny nook in the weapon storage wing. It was a secret hideout for her and her best friends, and they had planned to meet there that morning.

Sethos was already waiting there. He immediately turned to his crying friend.

“Y/n, are you okay? Where were you?”

He dragged her down to sit with him, looking into her eyes and wiping a tear off her cheek.

“They took me to-to see the pieces. It didn't hurt, it was just scary.”

She kept sniffling, but soon calmed down thanks to him and his warm palm on her cheek.

“What happened?”

“...There was a little orb. One of the pieces of Lord Hermanubis. I-I had to walk to it, see if he'd pick me too.”

She still trembled a little, so he held her tiny hand with his.

“Did he?”

“...No. The piece hissed at me, and I ran off.”

“Okay.”

That was all he could reply. He didn't know if it was a good or a bad thing, after all.

Sethos himself had gone through the same thing, apparently, but with a very different outcome. He had no recollection of the events, only a vague memory of being really sick for a while. He had been told she'd cried at his bedside for days, especially when he hadn't recognised her or Cyno.

He had become one of the vessels for Hermanubis’ power. That’s what the adults said. He had no idea what it even meant.

Whatever happened had just made him sick and hurt his friends.

And now she'd been through the same test, too, just without losing her memory.

He tightened his hold of her little hand. She remembered him. That was good, at least.

But now the problem was Cyno's absence.

“Did you see Cyno?”

“I don't think so”, she said, wiping her eyes with her arms, “I ran so fast I barely saw anything.”

“..Let's go look for him. I've got a bad feeling about this.”

They snuck out and walked through the halls hand in hand, peeking behind corners and checking their usual hide-and-seek spots. But they didn't find him.

Until he walked towards them from the scary corner of the temple she had just moments ago ran from.

“Cyno!!” they both exclaimed and ran to him, hugging him.

He stood there, unmoving.

“Are you okay??”

“Did you see the pieces??”

They practically shouted at him once they had given him a bit of space. Cyno just stared.

“I don't know. I'm tired. My head hurts.”

She placed a hand on his shoulder.

“Let's go get you some help-’

“Who are you two again?”

Their eyes flew open, pupils shrinking in shock.

“It’s us! Your best friends, Sethos and y/n!” Sethos tried to grin, but it looked more like a grimace.

“Yeah! And we were planning our snack heist for today, remember?”

“...I don't know. I don't remember.”

He suddenly fell on his knees, clutching his head and clenching his teeth in pain.

“He needs help”, they shouted, making eye contact.

“You stay with him, I'll go get someone”, Sethos decided, “I'm faster.”

She nodded, and he immediately dashed away to find someone, anyone.

But while Sethos was gone, Cyrus appeared. He ran out from the scary room with a panicked expression, and it worsened when he saw the situation.

He approached the two kids, trembling.

“Sir Cyrus! Come help Cyno!” she immediately called out.

Cyrus knelt down, picked the confused boy up to hold him gently against his chest, and looked down at her.

“Y/n, be good, okay?”

“What does that-”

“Please be good. And take care of Sethos for me”, he pleaded.

“Wh-”

“Goodbye, y/n.”

Cyrus carefully held Cyno as he ran off towards the exit.

“Where are you going?! Bring Cyno back! Sir Cyrus!!”

She was left there, screaming and crying, as one of her best friends had once again forgotten her - and this time taken away to who knows where.

She slumped on the ground, curling into herself, and cried herself dry and sore.

When Sethos eventually returned with an adult, she didn't have any tears left, so she just held onto him, afraid of him being taken away as well.

When he found out, he cried too.

~

Their group obviously felt empty without Cyno, and they didn't know what to do about it.

One day y/n and Sethos were sitting outside by the oasis, not in the mood to play, but just sitting there to absentmindedly watch the fish.

“Did you ask your grandfather about Sir Cyrus and why he left and took Cyno?”

“I did, but he said it was complicated. He was mad about it, too, so I didn't wanna make it worse.”

“I'm also mad! How could he just take Cyno?! And after he lost his memories, too!”

She pouted, and Sethos tried to support her by leaning against her shoulder.

“The adults must know what they're doing. Grandfather says that they're close, and that it's going to be great.”

That didn't seem to lift her mood, so he tried again.

“I'm sure we'll see him again one day.”

He was angry as well, especially since he hadn't even been there to witness the situation. Cyno had just been ripped away from their lives all of a sudden, and it still didn't feel real.

But Sethos himself had also apparently been blessed by Hermanubis, so he didn't exactly have the choice to leave or fight against the adults, either.

“I'm glad I still have you, though”, she smiled sadly, resting her little head against his. “But yeah. We'll find him one day. I'm sure.”

~

As days, weeks, months and years passed, the memory of Cyno became more and more hazy. It never went away, of course, it just stopped hurting as much.

Sethos and y/n were still kids, but they'd gotten busier as time passed. More education, more training, more tasks. They had to learn more about the temple and what it stood for - especially Sethos, since he was the heir and the remaining vessel.

Y/n had her own share of tasks too, of course. She wasn't as informed about all the lore of the temple, but did her best with the more physical labor as she grew. She wasn't as quick and nimble as Sethos, sure, but was as much of a little rascal as he was. She ran through the temple delivering things from one member to another, learnt combat from some of the older folk and also Sethos who was taught by Bamoun himself, and became a handy little scavenger to pass time while Sethos was busy.

She heavily contributed to the number of times they could eat fish, and she was proud of that.

Sethos was trained in all forms of combat - polearm, sword, claymore and bow. He preferred the polearm, though, since his grandfather did as well. She, on the other hand, was on her way to become a skilled swordswoman. As she practiced, she even started fishing with her blades instead of a fishing pole.

Despite all the training and studying, the two stayed close through all the years.

~

“Knock knock. I’m really feeling like having scorpion today. Wanna take a break and come with?” she leaned in his room with a grin, skillfully spinning one of her dual blades in her hand.

Sethos grinned back just as smugly, closing his books.

“Heh, sure. Someone's gotta watch how you dish the spices, after all.”

“Rude, but true”, she chuckled, sheathing the weapon and stepping out the way. Sethos stretched his arms and back, earning a good few pops, and walked to her.

“You know, it's like you have a sixth sense for when I'm starting to get hungry.”

“We've been close for years, Seth. You should stop being surprised by my awesomeness.”

He chuckled and rolled his eyes.

“Sure, sure, maybe one day. But scorpion, eh?”

“Yup. They're making potato boats and other stuff I don't really care for today, so I thought we could go for a little hunt and get our own food. Sound good?”

“Definitely. Not as much of an adventure as it used to be, but fun nevertheless. Lead the way, hunter.”

“Just try to keep up.”

“You know I'm still faster than you.”

“Oh shut up and come on or they'll stop us again.”

They swiftly exited the temple and made their way along the cliff sides, until a lone scorpion caught their eye.

“The usual plan?” she grinned, taking her blades out.

He materialised his polearm and nodded.

“Yup. Get ready.”

She nodded and brandished the weapons, and he dashed forward, spear in hand. He jumped over the scorpion with an overly dramatic flip, dug the tip of the blade into the sand underneath it, and launched the creature towards her. She caught it midair with her swords, and slammed it down on the ground to finish it off.

“I think that might have been our best time”, she chuckled, giving him a high five.

“Eh, you could've been a bit faster.”

“Says the one who had to show off his agility and do a stupid flip.”

“Hehe, you're just jealous.”

She rolled her eyes and shooed him away.

“Go get firewood already, you doofus.”

He laughed softly, ruffled her hair, and started gathering dry sticks and branches nearby while she began preparing the scorpion meat.

It didn't take long for them to have a crackling campfire with a good amount of fresh meat grilling over it. They were sitting together in front of it, enjoying the warmth of the fire as the cooling evening air started nipping at them.

Both had soft smiles on their faces.

“Running away in secret has always been fun, but it's especially so when I've had my nose in a book all week”, he eventually chuckled, “so thanks.”

“I'm glad you're benefiting from me being a picky eater, hehe.”

He playfully elbowed her.

“I meant it, you know. I know I was doing important stuff, but I feel like I was built to be active and spend time outside instead.”

“That does sound more like you than being a nerd in a dusty study.”

“Heh, exactly. So, we're enforcing each other's bad habits by being here.”

“Isn't that what friends are for?” she bumped into his shoulder with hers, grinning playfully. He elbowed her again.

“Apparently, but don't push your luck.”

The sun had dipped below the horizon by the time the meat was done. Just like usual, Sethos did his magic with the spices, and they leaned back to look at the stars while enjoying the warm fire, good food, and even better company.

“This never gets old.”

“You sound like an old man, Seth.”

“Am I wrong though?”

“...No, you're not.”

“Thought so.”

Once Sethos was done with his food, he fished out his lyre from his bag, and started gently picking at its strings, playing a relaxing rhythm. She lounged next to him at a friendly distance, but even a fool would know that the look in her eyes was far from a friendly one. His wasn't much different - though maybe even softer than hers.

But neither brought attention to it. Maybe they didn't know, or maybe they just wanted to give it time.

They were perfectly content nevertheless.

~

“Sethos, Djer, y/n, training day. Let's go.”

Bamoun's word was law, and so they left. She was excited, anyway. She liked their regular combat camps, for both sides of the experience - combat AND camping.

The group gathered everything they needed for the trip before heading out to their usual training area.

“Ready to get beat up?” she playfully poked him.

“You should be. I may have been training my archery lately, but my polearm is still deadly, you know”, he grinned back.

“That little stick? It looks like it'll snap in half any second now.”

“So you'd better pray you're not the one it ends up snapping on.”

“If you get that close, it's already too late for you.”

“Now you're just starting to sound jealous.”

“Me? Of what?”

“If you hadn't been such a picky child, maybe you'd have the skills to wield several weapons now too~”, he smirked with a mischievous lilt in his tone.

“Psh, I'm plenty capable with just my blades, and you know that.”

“You say that, but when you feel like eating fowl, can you snatch a bird midair?”

“...Will you ever stop boasting about that? You already got your grandfather's pride and even a gift, what more could you possibly want?” she whined dramatically, a playful glint in her eyes.

“Your undivided admiration, of course.”

“Never.”

“Aw, shucks.”

Little did he know, he already had that.

Eventually they reached their training grounds, and got to work. Sethos set up a few targets for him to shoot at, while Bamoun directed Djer and y/n in a practice duel. Polearm versus twin blades was fairly evenly matched, even if one had an advantage with the weapon’s reach.

Bamoun was a good teacher, since he offered to teach everyone to wield several weapons if they were willing to learn. So, after some time and a brief break, he directed Djer for some archery training as well, and Sethos and y/n could duel, polearm versus blades, as always.

This time, however, something went wrong. That being a shot Djer missed.

The arrow flew into a passing herd of sumpter beasts - animals that aren't exactly known for running away when spooked.

The group was soon surrounded by wild beasts.

Bamoun wasn't exactly in the best shape after all the years and battles he'd gone through, so it was up to the three youngsters to deal with the herd. The beasts were strong and thick skinned, so the fight went on well into the night, the toughest of them fighting back until the crack of dawn.

The four humans were pushed back by the beasts, and as the fight continued, they'd covered a good amount of ground.

And some bad ground, too. The heavy beasts started sinking into the apparent quicksand with loud and panicked cries, and the four humans had to think quickly to avoid the same fate.

In little more than an instant Sethos had fished out rope and tools, and helped the group up to higher and more solid ground. Some of the sumpter beasts tried to follow them, but he shot them down. The rest fled the scene.

They had barely managed to find their bearings when the wind started howling angrily, and its speed soon picked up to a dangerous level.

“Quick, we don't have cover or the strength to run!” Sethos called out, and ushered the group closer.

“What can we do?” y/n asked, trying to keep her voice calm and level.

“Just hold on.”

Sethos made eye contact with her briefly, and tied the rope around her waist with careful but hasty moves, and did the same to the other two and himself.

“Stay low and hold on to anything you can!”

He managed, any other words drowned out by the howl of the harsh desert storm.

Her knuckles were white and fingers covered in cuts from holding on to branches and rocks for who knows how long.

So were his. He was tired, but he had to stay strong and hold on. For their sake.

Eventually the winds died down, and everyone slumped on the sandy rocks, completely spent. Sethos made sure everyone was there and okay.

Djer was a fellow temple member so Sethos obviously cared for him too, but he'd be lying if he said that he treated Djer with care and tenderness similar to what y/n and Bamoun got. The other two were more important to him, after all.

Everyone was quiet and tired on the way back. Djer supported Bamoun and y/n Sethos as they walked. She whispered supportive and thankful words the whole trek back, only broken by a little surprise.

Sethos' leg had brushed against hers, and both felt something odd in his pocket.

He had received a vision. Neither of them had the strength to check which element he was blessed with, but it was an important development regardless.

She was so proud of him.

~

More time passed, and with time came change.

Bamoun was getting worse by the day, which meant that Sethos was getting busier and busier to fill his grandfather’s shoes.

The Temple of Silence was starting to become too silent for her, as she saw Sethos less and less every week. There were other members, sure, but none of them could ever replace him.

Speaking of the other members… after all the years they'd been gone, rumors about Cyrus and Cyno suddenly began to travel around, and it didn't take long for everyone to find out why.

One day Cyrus just appeared in the temple, seemingly out of his own will. The lack of surprise on Sethos’ face showed that it was anything but unplanned, though.

After Cyrus followed Cyno, who had also brought his friends; Tighnari - a descendant of the Valuka Shuna - and the Traveler with his flying little companion, Paimon.

Cyno didn't remember Sethos or her of course, but Cyrus did shoot her a sad smile, recognising the girl even after all the years.

Things escalated, Bamoun fell into a coma, and soon there would be a Rite of Duels. She was so confused, but believed in Sethos.

She approached Sethos, who emerged from his grandfather’s room.

“Are you okay?”

Her voice was soft and quiet, but it still surprised him.

“A-ah, yeah. He's been sick for a long time, but seeing it get worse still hurts.”

“Of course it does.”

She gently sat him down on the stairs.

“Are you going to fight Cyno?”

“Yes.”

“Are you ready to give him your Ba fragment if he wins?”

“...Yes.”

He sighed, obviously tired from everything that had happened. He stood tall around the others, but was able to relax only with her.

“You're doing good. No matter what happens, I trust you, and I'll be here for you.”

Sethos let the words sink in, and leaned his head on her shoulder. She found his hand, and ran her thumb over the back of it, hoping to calm him even a little.

He closed his eyes, and for a moment, he was not the heir or the vessel.

He was just Sethos.

~

The rite of duels was intense, neither side was willing to back down. Tighnari and Aether were already tough opponents, but her nails scraped the stony railing as she watched Cyno and Sethos clash time and time again.

The fight was about something deeper than just Ba fragments; Sethos’ view of the world, the temple, his power, and even himself were all changing.

But he seemed to come to a conclusion, since when Cyno hit Sethos’ polearm from his hands and made him yield, Sethos smiled in response.

He gave up the power personally granted to him by Lord Hermanubis. But he was fine.

The temple was fine too, since Cyno let Sethos become the one in charge instead of taking over himself, despite what the rules had said.

The only thing that wasn't fine was Bamoun, whose death was expected, but still painful for everyone.

As she had promised, she was always by his side, especially in his hour of sorrow.

~

But things changed.

Now that Sethos was the leader, he was busy. Even busier than before.

And now that the Temple was communicating with the Akademiya again, Sethos was out and about a lot.

He even moved to Sumeru City.

The temple was and had always been her home. But it was silent without him.

She continued doing her responsibilities - hunting, gathering and helping the others with physical labor - but nothing felt the same.

The temple was full of changes and fresh air, but had never felt so stuffy and silent.

She missed him.

Sethos, of course, didn't forget his home or his duties. He had a lot to do, but always brought some rainforest specialties back with him. Fruit, leaves, flowers and feathers, whatever he could find, and everyone loved them.

He brought her something, too.

“Y/n, there you are!”

He threw his arm around her shoulder with an affectionate grin.

“I missed your grumpy face! What's up?”

“The usual, really. Getting food and carrying things”, she replied in a neutral tone, happy to see him, but sad about how things had turned out.

Sethos, after all these years, could pick up on her tone of voice, of course.

“..Y/n, are you okay?”

He turned her to face him, and brushed a few strands of hair away from her cheek.

“And don't you lie to me or I'll put you in timeout”, he chuckled, bringing a small smile to her lips, too.

“...I just.. miss you. The others are here, of course, but… it's not the same without you”, she eventually admitted, voice barely audible.

Sethos noticed how vulnerable she felt, and gently turned her face away from him, beginning to comb his fingers through her hair to help her calm down a little.

“I'm glad you're getting to see the rainforest and make new friends, I am! But… I feel like you.. you left me behind.”

He carefully thought of his next words, absentmindedly twisting the strands of hair into pretty braids, matching his.

“...I'm sorry for being out so much. I haven't had much time to think with everything going on, but I can definitely say that I have missed you too.”

She didn't know what to say, so she just nodded slightly, accepting the apology she knew was genuine.

He chuckled softly in response, and kept messing with her hair, now actually styling it.

“I mean it. Cyno, Tighnari, Collei, even Hat Guy… they're all interesting and fun, of course...”

He gently wove a Padisarah flower into her hair, secured it in place, and turned her face towards him again.

“But you're the most important person to me, don't ever doubt that, y/n.”

She smiled softly at his words, and placed her hand on his, still resting on her cheek.

“You're mine, too.”

A meaningful pause later he placed a tender kiss on the top of her head, and laced his fingers with hers after helping her up.

“You know.. I’d really like to go for a walk in the city today. What do you say?”

“Well, if you insist.”

And so, for the first time ever, she stepped foot into the rainforest and the city streets.

And, for the first time in a while, the world was far from silent again.

The outside air was fresh.