#self-shipmas

While he knows that she doesn’t like to restrict her wings with how much she relies on them, he couldn’t stand the thought of her being cold out of a stubborn refusal either. So on his way home, he’d stopped at a store to get her a little something. 

Just as Tai was about to call out for her again, shutting the door behind himself, he finally heard her respond. “In the bedroom!” 

Letting out a small chuckle, he took off his shoes and went to go see what she was up to. He stuck his head in the room, a little surprised by how different it looked. While she didn’t go repainting the room or anything, the decor certainly fit the weather more. The curtains to their balcony were clearly thicker, but still a soft orange to keep the room bright. The most notable change, though, was all of the blankets that Mai was currently situating, flying above their bed with her legs tucked up carefully so they weren’t in the way. 

“Looks like you’ve been a busy butterfly!” he laughed, setting the bag down beside the door so that he could open his arms to accept her into a hug. With practiced ease she wrapped her arms around his neck and relaxed her wings, making it safe for him to wrap his arms around her in turn, giving her a very careful squeeze to earn a happy squeak from her. 

Mai tilted her head back to look up at him, nodding happily. “Mmhm! It’s started to get cold again, so it was time to get the heavy stuff out. I went ahead and swapped the curtains for a heavier set to help trap more of the heat in and keep the cold out, and I dug out all of my heavier blankets so I was getting those situated.” 

Tai hummed in understanding, slowly releasing her to let her get back to her work, leaning against the doorframe to watch her flit about the room, finding places to store extra blankets that they don’t need quite yet. 

“How was your patrol?” Mai asked, glancing over to him before focusing on storing a few blankets in their closet. 

Tai pushed himself off the doorway to finish getting out of his costume and get comfy, putting up his hoodie and mask. “It went well, a pretty chill day today.” 

His little pun made them both snort, Mai bobbing slightly in the air over the bed. 

“I did grab you a little something on the way home though.” He added, going over and picking up the bag to offer it to her. 

Tilting her head curiously, Mai accepted the bag and shifted to carefully sit on the now mostly-made bed. As she took the bundle of fabric out of the plastic bag, Tai couldn’t help but watch her reaction closely, a little worried she wouldn’t like it… Or even worse, what if she was offended that he thought she couldn’t take care of herself? 

Fortunately, all of his fears were put to rest when she let out an excited hum and even stood up to try the jacket on. 

It was a vibrant orange, similar to her wings, with large buttons that would be easy to deal with even through gloves. It also had a panel on the back with snaps on it so that she could free her wings if need be, but still helped to trap heat for her wings. It went down to her knees, leaving only some of her wings visible from the bottom. Tai had done his best to ensure that it met all of her needs, since he knows how hard it can be to find the right kind of clothing when you’re a hero with special clothing needs. 

As she finished buttoning it and tied the sash around her waist, she beamed up at him once again. “This is perfect, thank you! I was actually just thinking about how I need to get a new jacket earlier, see if there was something better than just using my thicker wing sleeves to keep them warm.” 

Sagging slightly in relief, Tai leaned down to plant a gentle kiss on her head, placing a hand on her back to help keep her balance as she got on tip toe to meet him part way. “I’m glad. I was worried that you’d be upset about me jumping the gun to get you a jacket, but… it’s starting to get cold, and you’re so small…” He admitted honestly, his cheeks light pink. Can you blame him though?? He could circle her entire waist with both of his hands easily! 

Mai snickered and reached up to pat his cheeks gently. “I appreciate the concern, genuinely. I think it’s sweet that you considered it, and you put so much thought into it that you found something absolutely perfect!” 

“Looks like we were both prepping for winter in our own ways, huh?” Tai hummed, melting into her touch easily. 

Humming her agreement, Mai perked up slightly when hearing the kettle go off in the kitchen. “Speaking of, perfect timing! I’ve got some tea just about ready for us to settle in with!” 

Tai watched as she took off her jacket and hung it up carefully before she flew out of the room and towards the kitchen, his entire body relaxing as he took in how much she’d done for him on her day off… Worked on prepping the house for winter even though he wasn’t near as affected as she was, started to put together tea for them that would be ready just in time for him to finish getting out of his suit and out of patrol mode… 

Jia snickered and wrapped her arm through Jean’s to better match her pace as they meandered up Starsnatch Cliff, humming thoughtfully. “Bennett manages to keep up with me pretty well too, but point taken.”  

Silence settled between them as they continued their walk, Jean unable to help sparing a glance over towards the coliseum beside them, biting back a sigh when seeing the Ruin Guard still up and moving. She swears, the Abyss must keep repairing it…  

She wasn’t allowed to dwell on it though, Jia gently tugging her arm to encourage her to keep walking. “We’re almost there, don’t go getting distracted on me yet,” she teased, even as she followed Jean’s gaze to the Ruin Guard. “I’ll make sure we take care of it again soon. Relax for now. It doesn’t wander away from there anyways.”  

“Just please... be careful when you do...” Jean pleaded, looking at her friend worriedly. While she doesn’t doubt her skills in the slightest, the last thing that she wants is for Jia to get hurt trying to give her some temporary peace of mind...  

Jia hummed and gave Jean’s arm a careful squeeze, still guiding her further up the hill. “I’ll be careful, promise. I want to set a good example for the younger adventurers, after all,” she reassured easily, flashing her a grin.  

Figuring that that was the best Jean could hope for, she relented with a small laugh.  

Reaching the top of the cliff, Jia took to plopping down near the edge of the cliff, but just far enough away that they weren’t at any risk of falling, even if a strong breeze passed by. Jean followed her lead easily, though was still a little more careful about sitting down. Once she was satisfied that they were safely settled, she took the chance to look out over Mondstadt.  

It was still early evening, but it was already starting to get darker. The sky was a beautiful purple, but Mondstadt was still bathed in a soft golden glow, accenting the large statue of Barbatos in front of the Cathedral.  

A few lamps on the lower levels of the city were already being lit and the streets began to settle as everyone either headed home to be with loved ones or went to the taverns to enjoy the company of their friends.  

This view reminded Jean of what she works so hard for.  

Jia hummed and leaned against Jean’s arm for a moment, offering a cup of steaming hot tea. “It’s nice coming up here and looking down at the city. Seeing what you work so hard for.” For once, Jia’s voice wasn’t as loud or energetic as usual.  

It was quieter.  

Softer.  

Full of a gentleness that Jean knows only a very select few people get to hear from her, and warmed her heart to know that Jia values her so much.  

Jia kept her eyes focused on the city before them, her eyes half lidded in content. “Not many people tend to come up this way either, so it’s a good place to hide out when you need to get your thoughts together.”  

Taking a sip of her tea as she listened, enjoying the warmth of both the drink and her company, Jean could see why Jia wanted to bring her here. “It really is nice up here,” she agreed, keeping her voice just as quiet as though worried about shattering the atmosphere.  

She did find herself going slightly cross eyed when Jia shifted and held something with a sweet scent to her face. Her energy had returned in the form of a playful grin, her nose scrunched up slightly in her excitement.  

If it were anyone else, Jean would’ve been inclined to lean away some to better see what exactly Was being held to her face. However, she knows that Jia wouldn’t offer her something she wouldn’t like. So she leaned forward the slightest bit to take a careful bite from the spoon, a hand coming up to catch anything that may fall.  

It was comfortingly warm, without having any risk of burning her tongue, and it was sweet. Not overwhelmingly so, but enough to make Jean perk up.  

Turning her attention to Jia again, she bit back a laugh when seeing her with a spoon of her own in her mouth, excitedly watching Jean’s reaction.  

“This tastes really good,” Jean praised once her mouth wasn’t full anymore, “What is it?”  

Jia made sure to swallow her own serving and remove the spoon from her mouth before finally answering, offering the spoon she’d used to feed Jean to her. “It’s rice pudding! Not quite ‘traditional’, since I added more sugar than Baba usually does, but I figure it’s a nice dessert on a chilly evening.”  

Jean hummed approvingly as she took the spoon, inspecting the bowl that Jia had stored the pudding in. It was hardly anything intricate, not like what you’d expect of Liyue, but it still had a simple geometric pattern painted around the rim of the ceramic bowl. Carefully dipping her spoon into the bowl to get more of the pudding, Jean turned her attention towards the city once more.  

After enjoying the silence for a while, Jean finally spoke again. “Thank you for bringing me here, Jia.”  

Offering a small hum in acknowledgement, it took a few beats for Jia to respond. “I wanted to make sure you got the chance to take a break from everything, away from where everyone can see. But I knew you wouldn’t want to go far, so I figured this would work. A place where you can still see the City in case anything happens, but you’re far enough away it’s unlikely for anyone to easily find you.”  

Sometimes, somehow, Jean finds herself forgetting just how much thought Jia puts into everything. As energetic and all over the place as she tends to be, her thoughts still keep up with her body, and her kindness knows no bounds.  

Yuming had already gotten herself prepared for the day, her hair pulled back and sleeves rolled up and out of the way, her eyebrows furrowed ever so slightly as she checked over what he presumed were some notes. The oven was warm, meaning she was actually baking something, but he could still distinctly smell ginger in the room.

“Yuming?” He called, feeling guilty for only a moment when she startled at his voice, her head shooting up in surprise. Face flushing red in embarrassment at being startled, Yuming offered him a sheepish smile. “Apologies, did I wake you?” she asked, her voice as soft as ever.

Shaking his head, Baizhu walked into the room properly, curiously peeking over her shoulder at the notes. “No no, it was time for me to get up anyways. What are you working on?”

Yuming gently nudged the book over so that he and Changsheng could read it easier, reaching up to give Changsheng a few gentle chin scratches as she spoke. “Considering the season and how prevalent nausea is this time of year, between heightened anxiety, celebratory habits of over-eating, and risks of food poisoning, I wanted to see about an easier way to get people to eat ginger to combat it. So I’ve been experimenting with a few ideas, starting with some simple candies for children, but I’m also trying gingerbread for a less sugary option.”

Changsheng melted some at the scritches, considering her explanation before tilting her head slightly. “Ssso you are preparing for people to be ssstupid in advance,” she summarized, bundled up against Baizhu’s neck and mostly under his hair to trap what semblance of warmth she could.

Huffing slightly at the over-simplification, Yuming very gently booped her on the nose.

Baizhu couldn’t help but laugh at the banter, cupping his chin thoughtfully. “That’s a wonderful idea, dear. And I can certainly appreciate trying to get a jumpstart on the preparations. Does this mean that you have a medicine even you would be willing to take?” When she pointedly avoided looking at him, he chuckled out a small sigh. He figured as much.

He watched as she grabbed cloths to pull the tray out of the oven, setting it on the counter carefully. When seeing it was a large sheet, he hummed curiously.

“Why is it ssso…. big?” Changsheng asked, letting herself dangle closer to the tray curiously.

“I figured that I could cut it up into squares so that it’s easier to package and distribute,” Yuming explained quietly, looking over to the duo for approval.

Baizhu was still watching over her work, cupping his chin. “It almost seems as if you could build with this, it looks thick enough.”

Tilting her head, Yuming hummed thoughtfully and grabbed a fork, carefully slotting it along the edge of the gingerbread to see just how deep it ended up. “Perhaps…” After some thought, she nodded to herself resolutely. “I have an idea… give me an hour, please? And Qiqi can join us.”

What she was planning, Baizhu wasn’t sure. However, he has a feeling that it’s going to be entertaining nevertheless. So as instructed, he left her be while he went to tend to the Pharmacy before they opened.

An hour later, Yuming stuck her head into the main part of the pharmacy, perking up slightly when seeing both Baizhu and Qiqi there. “Can I please steal you two for a little bit?”

Looking up curiously, Baizhu nodded with a smile, placing a hand on Qiqi’s back to guide her to the kitchen. Yuming was waiting patiently for them, having some squares of the gingerbread waiting, as well as a bowl of icing. She also had a small box on a plate, and upon closer inspection, Baizhu was able to see that it was made of small squares of gingerbread and held together by the same icing Yuming had prepared.

“I wanted to test it before showing you, but it appears that yes, you can build with this, so long as you have the right materials,” she explained through small giggles, “So we can build something that is completely edible.”

Baizhu chuckled in amusement at the display, taking a closer look at her test piece while she pulled up a stool so that Qiqi could see better.

The young girl still seemed confused by the concept, standing on the stool carefully and leaning forward to look at the box too. “We can build… with food…?”

“Some of it, at least,” Yuming confirmed gently, offering Qiqi a small spatule and pulled the bowl of icing close. “Want to help me build a little house?”

Baizhu found the tiniest spark of determination in the small zombie’s face to be rather endearing, leaning against the table to watch them work. “It almost looks as though the pieces are big enough to make a little house for Changsheng out of the gingerbread,” he commented, the mental image making him cover his mouth to try and hide his amusement, and in turn avoid Changsheng’s ire.

“You can’t be ssseriouss, I wouldn’t ssstay in a housse made out of cookies,” said snake insisted stubbornly, even looking right up at Baizhu, “it would be too cold.”

The other cyborgs were bustling about, setting the table or fending off the ones trying sneak bites early, or working on decorating for the season. Colorful lights and so much glitter they’ll be finding it for years to come. Music that was only just loud enough for them all to hear, but it was still drowned out by talking. 

Well, ‘talking’, more like arguing. 

“Jet get out of the kitchen!” Chang was yelling, at his wits end with their friend. 

Jet at least had the sense to hurry out, even as he yelled back over his shoulder, “I just wanted a taste, damn!” 

Fran and G.B. in the living room, dancing together to some music from the Nutcracker, one of the few places where their knowledge overlapped. Joe was settled on the couch holding Ivan and watching the personal performance in awe, only spurring the two performers on. Hopefully the new ballet shoes that Ashley had gotten for her would make it easier for her to indulge in her passion… 

Al, Pyunma, and G Jr were setting the table together, ensuring that everyone would have a place to sit. 

This wasn’t perfect, sure. There were a few broken ornaments in the trash and there’s been a few arguments already about how to set things up, and she wishes that their families could be there, together and whole… 

But this is her family now. 

Still he followed her in, ducking slightly to get through the door frame.  

As they expected, the inside of the house was certainly… festive. There were string lights on just about every surface, and a massive tree in the main room. Wreaths decorated each door, and there was music playing from…somewhere. With the way it permeated the building, it was most likely that there were speakers hidden in each room. The duo could already hear the laughter from their friends, prompting Raine to beam as she takes 16’s hand to pull him towards the festivities.  

An absolutely massive buffet table was one of the first things they noticed, especially considering the fact that half of their group was already at the table. The Saiyans were stuffing their faces, predictably. The rest of the gang was spread out throughout the room and chatting amongst themselves, everyone having a cup in hand and a smile on their face.  

Bulma was quick to notice them, raising a hand in greeting. “There you two are!” She called happily, going over to meet them properly. She was in a short red dress with white fluff on the bottom and a matching Santa hat, dressed perfectly for the holidays. “I was starting to worry that you’d decide not to come hang out with us,” she added with a playful pout, opening her arms to hug Raine, “but look at you two, being all cute and festive!” 

Laughing as she eagerly accepted the hug, Raine flashed Bulma a playful grin and stepped back slightly to show off her green dress, fashioned to make her look like a christmas tree, with lights and garland wrapped around her.  

“It actually lights up, too!” Raine beamed, pressing a button in the hem of the dress to make the lights flicker. 

Bulma clapped excitedly at the sight because even though she could absolutely design something more intricate, it was still cute! “Well, feel free to wander around, we still have spare food prepped, so don’t worry about competing against the Saiyans,” She reassured, ‘whispering’ the last bit playfully. 

Raine snorted and shook her head. “That’s a relief, but honestly we figured that if need be, we’d grab something on the way home.” 

“Affirmative,” 16 finally chimed in, having let the duo talk while he observed the others, “We intended to grab hamburgers and walk home.” 

Bulma giggled behind her hand and nodded happily, gesturing for them to mingle. “Well, enjoy yourselves, and let me know if you need anything!” Without even letting them respond, Bulma hurried off to do some more chatting herself and check the food stocks. 

“Want to go say hi to the other Androids?” Raine asked, looking up to 16. 

16 considered before nodding, heading over to where Krillin and 18 were standing first, as they were closest. 

When seeing the two approach, Krillin raised a hand in greeting and offered a lopsided grin. “Hey you two! Fashionably late, I see.” 

“The only way to be late to anything Bulma has plotted is to be fashionably so,” Raine retorted easily. When 18 offered a small wave of their own, Raine mimicked easily while 16 simply offered a nod in response. 

 After a moment of consideration, 18 couldn’t help a small smirk as she glanced towards Krillin. “Why don’t you grab them drinks, and check in with Bulma?” 

“Bulma?” Krillin echoed curiously, tilting his head. 

“Mmmhm.” 18 insisted, turning her attention back to a skeptical Raine and a very confused 16. “Now then, 16, how have you been adjusting?” 

16 tilted his head slightly as he considered the answer. “There has been… a lot to learn. But it has been nice. After Raine completes her work, we go for walks in the park to see the people and animals. And we have set up a bird feeder at home.” 

Raine beamed, patting his arm. “He’s even built a… I’d say a bird house, but it’s more like a bird mansion. He designed a bird bath into it, and it has multiple houses and sections for a bunch of birds to be in! Bulma even provided some small cameras that we set up in the mansion so that he can check on them.” 

“It is relaxing to watch.” 16 insisted. 

18’s expression softened at the back and forth, crossing her arms. “I’m glad to hear it. Sounds like you’re in good hands.” 

“Affirmative. I am in very good hands.” 

“Good, I was worried I might have to give Raine a small… warning.” 

Despite poor 16’s confusion, Raine giggled sheepishly and shook her head. “No, no need. Though I will say, I’m glad you didn’t insist. I don’t want to be on your bad side.” 

Laughing properly, 18 nodded in understanding. “Have you met her folks yet?” 

“Yes, I did,” he confirmed, tone laced with uncertainty. “They… do not seem to like me.” 

Raine huffed and tugged his hand gently to draw his attention back down to her, her cheeks puffed out slightly. “16, dear, you’re fucking massive to us ‘normal’ humans, in height and muscle. You outclass all of my customers. My family just worries for my safety since I try to keep all of this away from them… It’d blow their minds.” Shaking her head, she offered him a smile. “They’ll get used to you. And hey, Andi likes you!” 

Krillin finally returned to the group, having caught the tail end of the conversation, couldn’t help but chime in. “I can kinda see where they’re coming from. If I didn’t know you, I’d feel preeeetty intimidated. Heck, I was, when we first met.” 

This seemed like a strange epiphany to 16, who even looked to 18 for her thoughts. She simply shrugged, since they aren’t wrong, but she hardly counts as ‘normal’ or ‘human’ anymore… 

“Enough about all of that though!” Raine chirped, hoping to avoid 16 getting too concerned about how intimidating he can be despite his kind heart. 

Krillin glanced up, over their heads, and couldn’t hold back his snort. So instead he put his forehead against 18’s arm, prompting her to look up too and smirk. “Looks like we have more company.” 

“Hm?” Raine hummed, having enough sense to look up first. “Gohan?” 

Gohan smiled sheepishly above them, holding a plant that she couldn’t quite recognize at this angle. “Hi Auntie Raine! Miss Bulma asked me to do this… sorry,” he explained,  though his tone didn’t betray any guilt. 

“Do what?” Raine asked, her curiosity getting the better of her as she flew up to match his level, one hand settled gently on 16’s shoulder for better stability. With practiced ease, 16’s hand settled on her hip, ready to catch her should she falter. “Is that-”

“Mistletoe, yes.” Gohan confirmed sheepishly, even the tips of his ears a little pink at getting pulled into Bulma’s ‘game’. But well… it’s harmless, and it’s a cute tradition!

Raine flushed red and shook her head. “If you’d be willing to help me get my revenge, think you could catch her and Vegeta under the mistletoe?” 

Gohan laughed and nodded. “Of course!” He grinned “But only after I’m done here.” 

“You’re stubborn, just like your parents.” Raine teased, reaching up to ruffle Gohan’s hair. 

Still she relented, letting herself hover a little lower. “What does it mean to be ‘under the mistletoe’?” 16 asked, looking to Raine for an explanation first. 

“It’s a tradition for two people who are ‘caught under the mistletoe’ to kiss. I don’t actually know where the tradition started, but it’s a cute one.” Raine explained, humming thoughtfully before planting a kiss on his forehead first, only to start giggling at the lipstick mark that was left. Though she was startled out of her amusement by playful boo-ing around them, making her realize that their entire group had been watching them. Flushing bright red at having so many eyes on them, she squeaked as she lost focus and started to fall. 

Fortunately she didn’t have far to fall, 16 quickly moving to catch her so that she was sitting on his arm. “Are you okay?” he asked, his eyebrows furrowed in concern. 

Giggles still bubbling up from her embarrassment, Raine offered a nod of reassurance. “I’m okay, thank you.” 

“Why were they disapproving?” 16 asked, still holding her up with ease. 

Raine huffed a little and cupped his cheeks, squishing them carefully, even if they didn’t have near as much give as her own hands. “Because they were hoping for a proper kiss.” 

With that, Raine finally gave the crowd what they wanted, kissing 16 carefully. It was short and sweet, but seemed to be exactly what their friends were wanting, based on their cheers. 

When they parted, 16 let out a small hum. 

“Thoughts?” Raine asked with a small giggle. 

So different from a similar yet distant memory, in an ice cold palace. Where she wore a large brown coat, and regarded him with a relaxed smile, no matter how aggressive he was to her in turn. She seemed so completely and utterly in her elements. No matter how empty or cold the med bay was, her mere presence managed to make it warm and inviting. 

Now she all but blended into the background. 

“Ava?” He called, his eyebrows furrowing slightly when she flinched at his voice. Bad sign. 

Ava turned to him quickly, standing up straighter. “Yes?” She greeted, holding her blanket-cape a little closer. 

Wanderer hummed and went over to join her, looking out the window. Perhaps something caught her attention out the window? It took a moment for the falling snow to register as unusual, his memories still so intermingled. “Do you like the snow?” he asked, vaguely remembering her saying something about that before. How it looks so peaceful, and she enjoyed watching it during quiet moments in the infirmary. 

So he was a little startled when she shook her head, looking back out the window. “No… not really.” 

“How come?” He asked, wondering if this, too, was somehow his fault. 

Ava sighed shakily, chewing on her lip as she debated the best way to explain it. “The cold… hurts,” she admitted quietly, absently rubbing at her arms, “It’s impossible to hide in, and difficult to maneuver in…”

With just that, the Wanderer knew what she meant. He knew what she left unspoken, and oh how his rage burned. 

The snow made it impossible to escape what he’d unknowingly left behind. 

His gaze lingered on the scar on her face, knowing full well how many are hidden under layers of fabric. Slowly, ensuring she saw his hand coming, he settled his hand on her cheek. She still flinched, but she didn’t fully pull away. So he carefully ran his thumb over the scar, his eyebrows furrowed. 

Ava watched his expression closely as she slowly settled into his touch. Once sure he wouldn’t immediately recoil at having his affections returned, she reached up to gently hold his hand in hers. 

Taking a slow breath to keep his obnoxious emotions in check, he finally pulled away from her and instead moved to shut the curtains. Not so much to block light, but enough to make it harder for her to see the snow. “Go sit down. There’s no point in dwelling on the snow,” he instructed. 

Knowing better than to argue, she obediently moved to the couch to bundle herself up in blankets once more and grabbed a medical book from the Akademiya she’d been working through lately. The silence that settled over their home didn’t bother her in the slightest, because she could still hear the Wanderer and what he was doing. 

The sound of something being placed on the stove, and pouring water. 

The striking of a match, the faint but familiar sound of lighting a small fire. 

Clinking of ceramic bumping into ceramic and being set on the counter. 

Was he… making tea? 

While that’s certainly not impossible, and his presence is half the reason they have tea in the house to begin with, it felt strange for him to be making it. Usually Ava is the one in charge of making tea. The oddity of having him doing it instead of her had her starting to stand to at least attempt to help, only to have Wanderer call out to her before she could even pull all of the blankets off of herself. 

“Stay put. I’m almost done anyways.” 

Blinking in surprise at the timely warning, Ava couldn’t help but start giggling as she settled back into the couch and re-bundled herself. 

Not long after, Wanderer finally came out with two cups in hand. His was traditional Inazuman style, while Ava’s was more Sumerian with a handle. She gratefully accepted her cup from him, setting her book in her lap and ensuring there was plenty of room for him on the couch. Keeping the cup close to her chest and face, she savored the warmth to combat the cold outside. 

“I was planning to stay in today anyways,” Wanderer commented, looking down at his own tea. His tone was simple, firm, leaving no room for doubt. 

Ava knew better, of course. He doesn’t like being cooped up. He fought hard for this freedom after all, for far longer than anyone should have to. 

Finally opening her eyes, she hummed happily when catching bright blue eyes looking back at her. 

“Have you been awake long?” she asked softly, reaching up to push his bangs out of his face. 

Shutting his eyes as he let her do as she pleased, Albedo shook his head even the tiniest bit. “Not at all. Did you sleep well?” 

“Mmmhm,” Calla confirmed easily, stretching out and finally trying to work on waking up for the day. Yet she still didn’t make an effort to get out of bed juuust yet. “Did you?” 

Albedo offered a nod of his own, finally sitting up and gently running his fingers through Calla’s hair one more time before finding it in him to seriously consider getting out of bed. “Much better than I was expecting, if I am honest. I suppose that the trip was more exhausting than anticipated.” 

“It is well more than double your usual trip to Dragonspine, after all. We just had the advantage of not having fairly pleasant weather on the trip here, compared to the snow of Dragonspine.” Calla finally sat up as well, still staying partially under the blankets to preserve what warmth she can while she brushes out her hair. “Don’t forget that dad wants you to try on the hanfu he got you,” she reminded when catching him trying to go for his normal outfit out of habit. 

Albedo paused, his hand outstretched to his bag to get out his usual shirt. “Ah, that’s right.” So he turned his attention instead to the box that Calla’s parents had given them when they met up for dinner last night as a welcoming gift. Hao had been so excited to have Albedo try a bit of Liyuen culture, between the meal and the dress, Karoline and Calla had been teasing him. “I may need some assistance with putting it on, though…” 

Calla giggled affectionately at his uncertainty, finally getting over to help sort their clothes, since her mother had ensured one of her warmer dresses were in the box as well. “Of course, dear.”

With that she set to work teaching him how to put it on, demonstrating with her own dress and helping him if he struggled. Albedo was so determined to figure it out that his eyebrows had a small, determined pinch to them that proved he was thinking hard about each and every step, and how they contributed to the final appearance. He was fully cooperative, and as quiet as ever, so Calla almost felt like it was like dressing up a life-size doll. 

By the time they both had their outfits on and Calla had finished taming her hair, the sun had finally finished rising and bathed their room in a warm glow. “There we go, now we're all set.” She hummed happily, putting away her brush and turning her attention instead to Albedo, who seemed to be thoughtfully examining his reflection in the mirror. She went over and playfully settled her chin on his head, meeting his gaze through the mirror. “You look wonderful,” she reassured, watching him fidget with the collar of the garment. 

“It feels… strange,” he admitted after some debate, “it's not bad, of course, but… it still feels strange.” Used to her antics, he wasn't the slightest bit phased by the show of affection. 

Considering the fact that Mondstadt and Liyue have very different styles of clothing, Calla isn't surprised that he finds it strange. It would be like her wearing Sumerian or Snezhnayan clothing. Not bad, just new. 

“It might take you some getting used to, but that's okay.” She reassured, glancing towards the window. “We'd best get going though, before Mom debates coming to fetch us. Lots to see today, after all.” 

Successfully distracted from his own reflection, Albedo turned his attention to her properly, offering his hand to her. “Of course. I look forward to seeing more of what you’re like away from Mondstadt.” 

Flushing slightly, Calla took his offered hand and led him out of their room at the inn. “I doubt I'm that different… but I am looking forward to showing you some of my favorite stores, plus there's a few shops with art supplies you may like, and of course Bubu Pharmacy.” 

She’s bundled up in so many layers, having two jackets and a scarf and boots and gloves and a hat! Surely that’s enough to calm his poor anxious heart? Especially when compared to him wearing… basically the same stuff he always does, but his jacket seemed a bit thicker than usual.  

Finally seeming satisfied enough to at least not fuss any further, Beel looked towards the entrance to the park they were heading to. “So it’s a tradition for humans to go to a public place to see light displays?” he asked.  

Nodding eagerly as they took their place in the line that was slowly funneling into the park, she beamed. “Mmhm! A lot of people put similar lights up at their house, though usually not to the same scale as public places like parks can manage. Public ones are usually way more intricate, and muuuuch larger, since they’re not confined to a small yard.”  

Beel offered a slow nod in response, looking at all of the other humans surrounding them. Families with children, couples young and old, all bundled up to fight against the cold air. While there wasn't any snow, it seemed like it was still plenty cold enough for humans to be uncomfortable without more layers. 

“Is there a reason why the children tend to wear such bright clothing…? Is it a tradition as well?” Beel asked, looking down to Faith. 

Making an uncertain sound, Faith used her free hand to make a so-so motion. “Not a tradition, but it's still a thing humans do. Y’know how you guys fuss at me for wandering off back home?” she asked, continuing when he nodded. “Parents put their kids in bright colored jackets so that it's harder for them to wander off and get lost, and even if they do get lost, they're easier to identify.” 

The comparison honestly explained a lot to Beel, who was clearly putting a lot of thought into the comparison. “That makes sense… I guess we are all so unique that it's not as big of a deal for us to differentiate ourselves by our clothing. Even in our school uniforms we stand out…” Faith nodded eagerly to confirm that he understood, even giving his hand an excited little squeeze. 

When they reached the front of the line, Beel kept quiet to let Faith handle the talking. While there's plenty of places in the Devildom that function the same way, it felt so novel to see it in the human world. Paper money and cards in place of Grimm, and smiles all around. 

Once again Faith gave his hand a small tug to guide him into the attraction and out of the way, freeing her hand from his and pulling her gloves off. “Let's get the bracelets on and then we can go look around,” she explained when catching his confused, and mildly concerned, look. So he obediently held his hand out for her to do as she pleased, watching her tiny hands push up his sleeves and carefully wrap the paper bracelet around his wrist and secure it. He’ll never get over how gentle she is with him, despite being well aware of how durable demons are. 

Once she tugged his sleeve back down, satisfied with her work, Beel carefully moved to take the remaining bracelet from here. “Here, I’ll do yours.” While he's well aware that she can put on her own jewelry, having seen her put on far more complicated pieces all by herself while refusing even Asmo’s help, it's only fair he returns the favor. 

Faith’s cheeks flushed even pinker than they already were, but she obediently offered her arm to him, just as he had done for her. So he very gently pushed up her sleeves, holding her hand in his own. Her hand was so small that he could have easily engulfed it with his own. But right now he’s on a mission. So he took the paper bracelet and very carefully wrapped it around her wrist. He made sure that it wasn’t too tight on her, but still secure enough it wouldn’t go falling off either. 

“There…” 

He wasn’t done though, carefully tugging both of Faith’s gloves back into place. Only once he was sure that she was properly bundled again did he seem satisfied. 

Faith found herself ducking her head behind her scarf in hopes of hiding her fluster, appreciating how much he cares about her, to take so much care and be so gentle. When he tilted his head, silently questioning why she was hiding, she only shook her head. 

Taking his hand again, she pulled herself together and offered him a grin once again, squeezing his hand before gently tugging him back to the main sidewalk so that they can see all of the displays. “There’s lots to see! I’m really curious what’ll be your favorite!” Her sudden enthusiasm earned an affectionate nod from Beel, who followed her lead without hesitation. He’d follow her to the ends of any realm, this was a walk in the park… literally. 

He has to admit that this really is impressive, especially for humans. Such large displays, even brighter than the stars, in various colors and designs. Small lights along the ground helped to illuminate the walkways, and further down the path he could make out a series of lit arches that almost seemed to make a tunnel. There were also lots of displays off to either side of the walking path, trees made of light strands and existing trees lit up as well, reindeer and candy canes…

Beel’s stomach growled at the thought of such mouthwatering treats, but he was quick to cover his stomach as if it would make difference with taming his Gluttony. He spared a glance down to Faith, embarrassed and a little disappointed in himself. He’d made sure to eat plenty before they left, hoping that it would stave off his appetite at least long enough for them to enjoy some of the attraction… Faith seemed so excited about bringing him, after all… But when he checked to see her reaction, she wasn’t even looking at him. While still holding his hand, her free hand was digging in her purse. When he heard the all too familiar sound of a crinkling wrapper, he couldn’t help but straighten up slightly in excitement, like a puppy hearing treats. 

Faith let out a triumphant little sound before offering him two granola bars, one of which she’d even managed to tear open for him. “Here we go! I know they tend to sell snacks and hot cocoa at these sort of things, and I definitely want to get some, but I wanted to make sure I brought snacks for you too.” 

Accepting the bars and demolishing half of one of them in a single bite to quiet his brain even the slightest bit, Beel still found himself staying in place and admiring her. His precious human who looks out for him more than for herself. 

“Beel?”

Shaking his head slightly to dismiss her concern, he offered her a smile. “Thank you, Faith.” 

Beelzebub is hardly an ungrateful demon, far from it. But he’s not the most talkative one either, and with the way he said it, it clearly carried a greater weight than simple gratitude. An underlying ‘I love you’, but still so much more. 

So Faith returned his smile in kind. “Of course!”

Satisfied that they’d have enough snacks to satisfy his appetite for at least a while longer, Beel let her lead the way once more, but found himself getting distracted from the displays themselves by how beautiful she looks. 

Her cheeks and nose flushed from the cold, but still she’d beam and give his hand a squeeze to grab his attention before pointing out something and looking to him for his thoughts. Her eyes reflecting the lights with such innocent excitement that’s so rare in the Devildom, but based on his sparing glances to other humans out of sheer curiosity, is still in abundance amongst humans. 

He sees why his sister loved them so much, since he’s clearly no better. And he wouldn’t want it any other way.