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Chapter Text

The grand chamber of Natlan’s council hall was alive with the sound of voices as the six tribal representatives arrived, each bringing with them scrolls, ledgers, and reports detailing the reconstruction and recovery efforts in their respective territories. The room was an impressive blend of tradition and strength—carved stone walls etched with the history of Natlan’s warriors, flickering torches casting warm, golden light over the gathering.

Mavuika sat at the head of the long stone table, her presence commanding yet relaxed. Aether, ever the dignified hero when duty called, sat beside her, Paimon perched on his shoulder, swinging her legs idly. Despite the formal atmosphere, there was an unmistakable camaraderie between those gathered—these were not just warriors and leaders, but old friends brought even closer by the struggles they had endured together.

Each representative took turns presenting their reports.

Mualani, radiant as ever, grinned as she detailed the coastal tribe’s revival, boasting about the reopening of the hot springs and how the sea had become safe for surfers again.

Kinich, the silent but efficient courier, merely handed his report forward with a curt nod, his work speaking for itself. He had ensured that trade routes and jungle paths were once again functional, keeping Natlan connected across its vast and wild landscapes.

Chasca, with her ever-present large firearm strapped to her back, spoke about the increased security measures, her sharp eyes flicking between Mavuika and Aether. "I’m still annoyed you two took out Gosoytoth without calling me," she huffed. "But I guess that means my job’s easier now."

Citlali and Ororon, the shaman and her brooding apprentice, confirmed that the lands were healing, the spirits of Natlan regaining their strength after the war.

Iansan, the small but fierce sports coach, punched her fist into her palm, excitedly announcing that the warrior training programs were stronger than ever, producing some of the most promising new recruits in generations.

Xilonen, the elegant but ever-lazy dancer and blacksmith, waved a hand. "Weapons and armour are back in full production," she assured, yawning. "Though I’d rather be DJing or dancing at a festival than swinging a hammer all day."

As the reports wrapped up, Mavuika leaned back slightly, satisfied with the progress her people had made. Just as she was about to conclude the meeting, Aether cleared his throat, straightening in his chair. "I have a proposal," he said, his golden eyes gleaming with purpose.

The room fell silent, all attention shifting toward him.

"Natlan has been isolated for centuries, constantly at war with the Abyss," Aether continued. "Now that the threat is gone, it’s time for Natlan to reconnect with the rest of Teyvat. Trade, diplomacy, cultural exchanges—whatever form it takes, it will help Natlan move forward into a new era. And I think Mavuika and I should be the ones to lead that outreach."

Mavuika immediately understood what Aether was doing. His reasoning was flawless—Natlan should open its doors to the other nations. It was the logical next step. But she also saw right through him. This wasn’t just about diplomacy. It was about them. About finding more ways to spend time together, outside of responsibilities and endless paperwork. The thought made her smirk slightly—he was using duty as an excuse to be by her side.

Still, she wasn’t about to argue against an idea this good.

The representatives exchanged glances, considering the proposal.

"I like it," Mualani said first, crossing her arms. "We’ve kept to ourselves for too long. A little fresh air from the outside world wouldn’t hurt."

"I agree," Chasca added. "Having allies beyond our borders could make sure we never have to fight the Abyss alone again."

Citlali nodded sagely. "The spirits have been telling me of change coming to Teyvat. This could be part of it."

Even Kinich, who rarely spoke, gave a thumbs-up in approval.

Seeing their unanimous agreement, Mavuika leaned forward, resting her elbows on the table. "If we do this, it means stepping away from Natlan for a while. You all will have to manage things until we return."

Xilonen smirked. "We’ve got this covered, boss. Go, have your diplomatic excursion with your trusted Tumaini ." Her tone was light, teasing, but Mavuika detected the slightest knowing glint in her eyes.

Mavuika sighed inwardly. It’s only a matter of time before they figure it out…

"Then it’s settled," Aether declared, his voice carrying that confident determination that had led him through countless adventures. "Mavuika and I will visit the other nations and begin the process of reconnecting Natlan with the rest of Teyvat."

The meeting concluded, and as the representatives departed, Aether stretched his arms behind his head, grinning at Mavuika. "That went well."

Mavuika eyed him with mild amusement. "You really just wanted an excuse to drag me around Teyvat with you, didn’t you?"

Aether placed a hand on his chest, feigning innocence. "Me? Never. This is purely for diplomatic reasons."

Paimon snorted. "Yeah, sure. Paimon bets you already have a whole list of ways to make Mavuika blush in public."

Mavuika sighed, shaking her head. "I am excited to travel again," she admitted. "But don’t think for a second that I won’t get my revenge."

Aether’s grin widened. "I’m counting on it."

The soft glow of candlelight flickered across the room as Aether sat at Mavuika’s writing desk, his pen gliding smoothly across the parchment. The rhythmic scratching of ink against paper filled the otherwise quiet chamber, save for the occasional sigh of the warm night breeze flowing through the open window.

Mavuika, clad in loose, comfortable nightwear, leaned against the doorframe, watching him work. Aether had a remarkable way of shifting between roles—one moment he was the mischievous, flirtatious traveller who loved to see her flustered, and the next, he was the poised, strategic hero who had earned the respect of nations.

She pushed off the frame and walked toward him, her footsteps silent against the floor. As Aether dipped his pen into the ink again, she bent down and wrapped her arms around him from behind, resting her chin on his golden hair.

"Isn't this something I should be handling?" she murmured, her voice laced with amusement.

Aether smiled as he continued writing, unfazed by her warmth pressing against him. "If I can take some work off my ridiculously hot girlfriend’s plate," he said smoothly, "then I will. And maybe she’ll reward me later."

Mavuika let out a soft chuckle and kissed the side of his head. "Horny logic, but sweet nonetheless." Her breath ghosted against his ear, sending a small shiver down his spine. "I was going to reward you anyway, because I love you."

Aether paused, letting her words settle into his heart before turning his head slightly to meet her gaze. His golden eyes softened. "You always know how to win, huh?"

Mavuika smirked. "Of course."

She glanced at the letter over his shoulder, reading his carefully crafted words to Ningguang. It was formal, yet it carried Aether’s personal charm—an explanation of their upcoming visit, the importance of proper diplomatic introductions, and the desire to forge stronger ties between Natlan and Liyue.

"It’s well-written," she admitted. "But if I don’t sign it, Ningguang might assume you’re just dragging me along without my approval."

Aether handed her the pen, watching as she slid into the chair beside him. She signed her name with elegant strokes, sealing the letter with both their authorities.

Aether leaned on the desk, watching her. "See? Teamwork."

Mavuika leaned in, her voice playful. "You just wanted an excuse to keep me up late, didn’t you?"

Aether grinned. "Maybe."

She flicked his forehead gently, making him laugh, before reaching for the official seal of Natlan. "Let’s just hope Ningguang doesn’t see through your mischief as easily as I do."

Aether watched her stamp the letter with a satisfied hum, already eager for their next adventure together.

The day of their departure to Liyue arrived quickly. Mavuika had already delegated her responsibilities among her trusted subordinates, ensuring that Natlan would function smoothly in her absence. Despite this, a hint of nervousness lingered beneath her composed demeanour. It was not often that an Archon left her nation, and she wondered if she would ever feel entirely at ease doing so.

Aether noticed and squeezed her hand gently. "You’ve trained them well. They’ll be fine."

Mavuika nodded, comforted by his assurance. She had planned to ride Flamestrider to Liyue—a flashy entrance she knew would make an impression—but Aether had gently suggested otherwise.

"Much as I love riding behind you," he teased, "Liyue is mostly mountains. We’d spend more time flying off cliffs than actually riding."

Mavuika had chuckled, realising he had a point. And so, they opted for a simpler approach—teleporting to the northern gate of Liyue Harbour. As they materialised on the familiar waypoint, a wave of sea breeze brushed past them, carrying the scent of salt and spices.

Paimon, eyes sparkling, floated excitedly. "Ohhh, Paimon remembers all the tasty food here! The shrimp balls, the grilled tiger fish, the crystal shrimp—Paimon's gotta eat them all!"

Mavuika laughed softly at Paimon's enthusiasm, while Aether shook his head with a playful smile. “One of these days, Paimon, you’re going to eat every restaurant in Liyue out of business.”

Approaching the bustling gate, the trio was met by a small regiment of Millelith guards standing at attention. At their head were Ningguang and Keqing, their presence commanding yet welcoming.

Ningguang’s eyes sparkled warmly at Aether. "Traveler, it is always a pleasure to see you."

Keqing's typically serious expression softened. "You're back!"

Mavuika observed this with interest—Aether had a way of connecting with people, regardless of rank or station. It reminded her of how effortlessly he had integrated himself into her world in Natlan. Just as naturally as he had in Mondstadt before. She felt a swell of pride, knowing that this incredible person was hers.

As the greetings concluded, one of the Millelith guards looked around curiously before asking, "Where are Lady Mavuika’s guards? We were hoping for a bit of friendly competition with them!"

Aether chuckled, a sly grin on his face. "Mavuika is the God of War—she doesn’t need guards."

A ripple of laughter followed, easing any lingering tension. The Millelith welcomed them heartily, the guards exchanging impressed glances at Mavuika’s composed yet powerful presence.

"Well," Ningguang said warmly, "let’s not stand at the gates. The Jade Chamber awaits. Consider it your home while you stay in Liyue."

Mavuika inclined her head graciously. "Thank you, Lady Ningguang. It’s an honour."

As they made their way through the vibrant streets of Liyue, the trio marvelled at the bustling market stalls, the intricate architecture, and the harmonious blend of tradition and commerce. Aether walked with ease, greeting familiar faces and recalling memories of past adventures. Paimon darted between vendors, eagerly eyeing food stalls.

Mavuika, beside him, felt the weight of her role as an Archon lighten just a little. For now, she was just Mavuika—travelling alongside the person she loved and sharing in the joys of exploration.

Chapter Text

The group’s journey to the Jade Chamber is lively, colored with playful banter and Aether’s mischief. As they ascend the winding paths of Liyue Harbour, Aether glances at Ningguang with a smirk.

“So, Ningguang,” Aether begins, a teasing lilt in his voice. “Is this walk to the Jade Chamber still considered official business?”

Ningguang sighs, an amused smile gracing her lips. “See what I mean, Mavuika? He does this every time. If he's asking that, he's definitely planning something.”

Mavuika chuckles softly. “Oh, I know. I love that about him.”

Ningguang’s eyes flash with curiosity at Mavuika’s choice of words. "Love," huh? That's a strong way to phrase it.

Her gaze lingered thoughtfully on the two, but before she could pry further, Paimon pipes up - “Paimon thinks we should slow down a bit! Trust Paimon, this is gonna be good!”

Mavuika and Ningguang fall back slightly, watching as Aether stealthily closes the distance between himself and Keqing, who walks ahead, her mind clearly preoccupied with work.

Moving with careful precision, Aether gently pats Keqing's head, as if petting a cat. Simultaneously, he produces a golden shrimp ball from his magical inventory and holds it near her face. Lost in thought, Keqing instinctively nibbles at the shrimp ball, a soft, contented purr escaping her before she catches herself.

Her eyes widen in realisation, and a slight flush colours her cheeks as she turns to face Aether, pouting in a mix of irritation and embarrassment. “Traveler! What do you think you're doing?”

Aether grins, unfazed. “Just a snack for our hard-working Qixing.”

Keqing’s eyes narrow, but she accepts the remaining half of the shrimp ball and nibbles at it, still pouting but grateful.

From the back, Paimon bursts out laughing. “Paimon knew it! Keqing really is like a kitty!”

“Paimon!” Keqing grumbles, still blushing.

Paimon’s laughter subsides as she looks to Aether, pleading. “Hey! Where’s Paimon’s shrimp balls?”

Aether, still grinning from his successful prank, produces a bowl of golden shrimp balls from his inventory. He hands out a piece to everyone, receiving eager thanks from Paimon, an approving nod from Ningguang, and a pleased hum from Mavuika.

Mavuika examines her shrimp ball curiously. “These are really good. Why have you never made these for me back in Natlan?”

Aether grins, scratching the back of his head. “Well, I mostly make Natlanese dishes for you, so I thought—”

“Back in Natlan?” Ningguang cuts in, a sly smirk forming on her lips. “Traveler, just how often do you visit the Pyro Archon?”

Aether stammers for a moment, while Mavuika only smirks knowingly. Ningguang’s eyes sparkle with amusement, clearly piecing something together.

“To be fair,” Aether regains his composure, “Ningguang did try to hire me as her personal chef for the Jade Chamber. If that had happened, you’d all have these shrimp balls every day!”

Ningguang laughs, a smooth, melodic sound. “The offer still stands. If you ever tire of adventuring, the Jade Chamber has a place for you.”

Mavuika, savouring another shrimp ball, raises an eyebrow. “I'd consider it, honestly. These are amazing.”

Aether, ever the gentleman, hands out another round to everyone before passing the rest to Keqing. Despite her earlier flustered reaction, she accepts them with a softer, thankful smile.

And so, the group continues toward the Jade Chamber, laughter and lingering shrimp-ball flavour accompanying them — the breeze of the harbour carrying their mirth through the bustling streets of Liyue.

Mavuika stood close—closer than what would be considered just friendly—as she and Aether gazed over the golden landscape of Liyue. The early sunlight bathed the city below, casting long, soft shadows over the rooftops and winding streets. From a distance, to anyone who might have seen them, they would appear as a couple lost in a quiet, intimate moment, savouring each other’s presence.

Aether let out a slow breath, his golden eyes scanning the horizon before turning toward Mavuika. “Since we’re here as representatives of Natlan, we should disclose our relationship before the talks begin.”

Mavuika arched a brow, a playful smirk tugging at her lips. “You just want to show me off to your friends here, don’t you?”

Aether chuckled, shaking his head. “I mean… I won’t deny that having the most powerful and beautiful Archon in Teyvat as my girlfriend is something I’m proud of.”

Mavuika hummed in amusement, but Aether’s expression grew a little more serious. “But that’s not the reason. Since I’m not from Natlan, I’m technically an outsider in these discussions. That makes me a neutral third party.” He paused, his fingers tapping against the railing. “But now that I’m with you, that neutrality disappears. If we sign anything without making it clear, it could be seen as a conflict of interest.”

Mavuika studied him for a long moment, her crimson eyes gleaming with curiosity. “I’m impressed, Tumaini. You’ve thought this through.”

He gave her a sheepish smile. “Yanfei drilled this stuff into me. Something about how if I keep getting involved with nations, I should at least know the basics of contract law.”

Mavuika chuckled, finding it amusing yet admirable that Aether had taken the time to understand these intricacies. “Then I’d love to meet Yanfei at some point. If she’s taught you all this, she must be brilliant.”

Aether nodded. “She is. And she’ll probably want to meet you, too.”

Mavuika considered everything for a moment before making her decision. She shifted, sliding an arm around Aether’s waist in a light side hug. The difference in their heights made the gesture feel even more protective, as if she were shielding him in her warmth. “I trust you on this. If it helps Natlan’s cause, I’ll follow your lead.”

Aether turned to her, his smile soft, warm. “Then we’ll handle it together.”

Unbeknownst to them, a pair of sharp, calculating eyes watched from a distance. Ningguang had stepped out of the Jade Chamber to call them back inside, but the sight before her made her pause. The way Mavuika wrapped her arm around him, the quiet way Aether leaned into her touch, the natural way their movements synced—it was undeniable.

There was no need to ask. No need to interrupt.

Ningguang smirked lightly to herself and turned back toward the chamber. She had her answer.

The couple stepped into the grand hall of the Jade Chamber, where the scent of fresh tea and exquisite cuisine filled the air. As expected, Paimon was already at the table, stuffing herself with whatever delicacy was placed in front of her, humming in delight with each bite.

Keqing was seated at her usual spot, flipping through a stack of documents with a sharp, focused gaze. Across from her, Yelan leaned back in her chair, arms crossed, her presence silent but impossible to ignore. She had arrived without a word, but everyone knew she had been listening for quite some time.

As Aether and Mavuika took their places, Ningguang set down her teacup and folded her hands in her lap, watching Aether with a knowing expression.

Before anyone could begin the meeting, Aether stepped forward. “Before we discuss anything official, I need to make something clear.” His voice was calm, measured. “Mavuika and I are together.”

Keqing barely glanced up from her documents. “Yes, we know. You arrived in Liyue together.”

Yelan nodded. “That’s why we’re here. To discuss Natlan and Liyue’s relations.”

Aether sighed, shaking his head. “No, I mean—” He placed a hand lightly on Mavuika’s shoulder, letting the touch linger just enough to make his point.

Mavuika, ever composed, simply placed her own hand over his, her fiery gaze meeting the Liyue officials in front of them.

Keqing blinked. Yelan’s sharp eyes flickered with understanding.

“Oh.” Yelan smirked. “Ohhh.”

Keqing furrowed her brows in confusion for another few seconds before realisation dawned on her. “Wait—WHAT?!”

Ningguang chuckled softly into her teacup. “I already knew,” she said smoothly. “I saw them earlier.”

Keqing gaped between them, her usual composed demeanour cracking. “How long? When did this—?”

“Not important,” Aether interjected quickly, not particularly eager to go into those details. “The important thing is that this means I have a conflict of interest. I can’t sign as a neutral third party.”

Keqing shook her head in exasperation but conceded the point. “Then, who do you suggest as a witness?”

Aether leaned slightly against the table. “Cloud Retainer—Xianyun.”

At this, even Ningguang looked mildly intrigued.

Aether continued, “Zhongli would’ve been the best choice, but as a consultant on various government schemes, he’s tied to Liyue in ways that could be considered a conflict of interest. Xianyun, on the other hand, is an adeptus with no official role in Liyue’s government. She’s powerful, ancient, and completely neutral. I think she’s the best option.”

Yelan hummed, tapping her fingers against the table. “Logical choice.”

Ningguang nodded approvingly. “And a respectable one. I’ll send an invitation to her immediately.”

Keqing was still reeling a little from the revelation about Aether and Mavuika, but she sighed, shaking her head. “Fine. I just hope she doesn’t spend half the meeting talking about her inventions.”

Aether grinned, finally sitting down beside Mavuika. “That’s a risk we’ll have to take.”

Before diving into official matters, Ningguang gracefully raised her jade wine cup, a soft smile playing on her lips. “Before we begin,” she announced, her voice smooth as silk, “I believe a toast is in order—for Aether and Mavuika’s new relationship.”

Keqing, still recovering from the surprise revelation, hesitated for a moment before picking up her cup. Yelan, ever the opportunist, smirked as she reached for her own drink. Even Paimon, her cheeks stuffed with food, hastily grabbed a teacup, looking delighted at the excuse to celebrate.

Mavuika chuckled, lifting her cup in acknowledgement, while Aether let out a small sigh, shaking his head with amusement. “We appreciate it,” he said, meeting Ningguang’s gaze, “but please—keep it between us for now. We still haven’t figured out how to tell the people of Natlan.”

Ningguang’s knowing eyes gleamed. “Of course,” she said, tilting her cup in a graceful motion. “Your secret is safe with us.”

Keqing sighed, still looking mildly exasperated at the whole situation. “You two really are something else,” she muttered before taking a sip of her drink.

Yelan smirked. “I’m just enjoying the entertainment.” She lifted her cup with a teasing glint in her eyes. “To our lovestruck visitors.”

Aether groaned playfully, while Mavuika simply clinked her cup against his, a smirk on her lips. Paimon, grinning ear to ear, declared, “To Aether and Mavuika! And to more good food!”

Everyone laughed as they took their sips, sharing a lighthearted moment before the weight of diplomacy settled upon them. The air between them felt lighter, the mood warm with camaraderie.

And then, with the pleasantries done, Ningguang set down her cup and folded her hands before her. “Now, let’s get to business.”

As the discussion began, Mavuika sat comfortably in her chair, one leg crossed over the other, exuding both authority and ease. She glanced at Ningguang with a confident yet affectionate smile. “Aether will be speaking on my behalf,” she declared warmly.

Aether, sitting beside her, blinked in mild surprise, but the way his face lit up made it clear how much he appreciated her trust. Mavuika didn't even need to look at him to know he was beaming.

Ningguang, too, seemed pleased. She leaned forward slightly, her elbows resting on the table. “Well, this is a delightful turn of events,” she said with a knowing smirk. “I always enjoy negotiations with him. It’s far more… efficient than the usual bureaucratic hurdles.”

Keqing, still reviewing documents, huffed. “You mean you just like talking to him,” she muttered under her breath.

Ningguang didn’t deny it. She simply smiled, elegantly sipping her tea. “Perhaps.”

Aether took a deep breath and began. “Natlan has been at war for generations,” he stated. “That means they’ve had little time for scientific inquiry. Liyue, on the other hand, has made tremendous advancements, particularly in mining technology and large-scale operations. I propose Liyue invest in Natlan’s vast mineral resources—but on the condition that at least half of the workforce employed in those operations are from Natlan.”

Ningguang tapped a manicured finger against her chin, already intrigued. “Go on.”

“This would also extend to trade,” Aether continued. “Liyue’s merchants should have full access to Natlan’s markets, and vice versa. All trade convoys will be escorted by Natlan’s warriors when in Natlan, and by the Millelith when in Liyue.”

Mavuika nodded along. “I see no issues with this.”

“Additionally,” Aether said, shifting slightly in his seat, “I propose free movement between our nations, military cooperation, and cultural exchanges. Our warriors can learn from each other, our people can trade ideas, and both nations can grow stronger together.”

Keqing tapped her pen against the table. “And in the event of cross-border crimes?”

Aether already had an answer ready. “Disputes will be deferred to Chief Justice Neuvillette of Fontaine. He’s a completely neutral party, and I know him personally. His judgment is unimpeachable.”

Yelan finally spoke up, arms crossed. “I’ll admit, these are strong proposals.” She turned her gaze to Ningguang. “What do you think?”

Ningguang smiled, pleased with the direction things were taking. “I think this is a partnership worth pursuing.” Then, a glint of amusement crossed her face. “And I have a suggestion of my own. Since Natlan’s warriors are well-versed in combat, how about sending some of our Millelith soldiers to train under Coach Iansan?”

Mavuika perked up at that, genuinely pleased. “That’s a fantastic idea,” she said, leaning forward slightly. “If there’s enough demand, I’ll even build a hostel for visiting students.”

“I’m sure Iansan will make warriors out of them in no time,” Aether added with a grin.

With all formal matters settled, Mavuika glanced around the room and made one last offer. “On a more personal note,” she said, voice warm, “I’d like to invite all of the Liyue Qixing to Natlan for a tour - a vacation, if you will. I expect you all would enjoy the hot springs and our passionate hospitality.”

Paimon, finishing her latest bite of food, cheered, “Ooooh! You guys are gonna love Natlan! The people, the food, the warm baths—!”

Yelan chuckled. “Sounds tempting.”

Keqing sighed but nodded. “I suppose a break wouldn’t hurt.”

Ningguang, ever the composed one, merely smiled. “I appreciate the offer, and I must say, I’m looking forward to it.”

The discussions eventually wrapped up, with all parties in agreement. As the meeting reached its conclusion, Ningguang folded her hands together and addressed Mavuika warmly. “I must say, you have chosen the best possible partner.”

Mavuika, still seated, didn’t hesitate. With a soft smile, she pulled Aether into a gentle side hug, holding him close. She didn’t even need to think about her response. “I know,” she said, her voice full of love.

Aether, flustered but happy, chuckled as Yelan smirked at him. Keqing simply shook her head with an exasperated sigh, while Paimon was too busy finishing off another plate of food to comment.

Ningguang watched the two with a knowing expression. Liyue had made a strong alliance with Natlan today, but more than that, she had witnessed something truly rare—an Archon in love, and a Traveler who had finally found someone to call home.

As the meeting drew to a close, Aether stood once more, drawing everyone’s attention. His expression was both serious and hopeful. “There’s one more thing I’d like to bring up before we conclude,” he said, looking to Ningguang. “I’d like to be the one to ask Cloud Retainer for her consent as the neutral witness.”

Ningguang raised an eyebrow, intrigued.

“Cloud Retainer is like a mother to me,” Aether continued, his tone carrying a rare softness. “She’d be happy if I visited, and while I’m there, I’d like to introduce Mavuika to her.”

Mavuika turned toward him, slightly surprised. Aether hadn’t spoken much about his personal relationships with the Adepti before, but the way he referred to Cloud Retainer so affectionately warmed her heart.

Ningguang’s usual composed demeanour softened into something more personal. “That would help me a great deal, Aether. Cloud Retainer respects you, and your request will carry more weight. If she agrees, let me know when she’ll be available to sign the documents.”

Aether nodded. “Will do.”

Satisfied with that, Ningguang leaned back, her smile returning. “In the meantime, I invite both of you to stay in the Jade Chamber guest house for as long as you like. Consider it a place to rest while you’re in Liyue.”

Paimon, still rubbing her overly full stomach from indulging in brunch, let out a weak cheer. “Oof… Free stay in the Jade Chamber… I might need a nap before I celebrate…”

The couple shared a knowing smile—there was no way Paimon was making it through the rest of the day awake.

With that, the meeting officially concluded. As the group dispersed, Aether turned to Mavuika with a playful glint in his eyes. “So, what do you say? Up for meeting some of my friends in Liyue?”

Mavuika, without hesitation, nodded. “Of course. I want to see every part of your world, Aether.”

Aether’s heart swelled at that. Smiling, he extended his hand toward her. “Then let’s go.”

Mavuika took his hand, and with fingers intertwined, the two left the chamber, ready to experience Liyue together.

Chapter Text

The streets of Liyue stretched before them, bustling with merchants, traders, and citizens going about their day. The city was as lively as ever, the scent of freshly baked buns mingling with the crisp salt air from the harbor.

Mavuika walked with the confidence of a warrior, her strides long and purposeful, her presence commanding subtle attention. Aether, beside her, matched her pace effortlessly, his golden gaze flicking to her now and then—utterly bewitched. Even after months together, she still left him breathless.

"You handled the meeting flawlessly," Mavuika said, her voice warm with praise. "Your preparation, your tact—it's no wonder every nation holds you in such high regard."

Aether let out a light chuckle, rubbing the back of his neck. "You’re giving me too much credit. I just made sure to cover everything that could go wrong." He glanced up at her, his expression soft. "I’d do anything to make things easier for you."

Mavuika felt the weight of his words settle in her chest, a warmth spreading through her. She couldn't openly embrace him in the middle of Liyue Harbor—not without drawing too much attention—but she reached down, her fingers brushing briefly against his wrist. Aether responded in kind, his pinky linking with hers for a fleeting second before they parted, the gesture unnoticed by the crowd.

Her voice was quiet but fond. "You already do, Aether."

Aether grinned, then, with a teasing lilt, smoothly changed the subject. "By the way, I heard the beds in the Jade Chamber guest house are ridiculously expensive. Handmade by the best artisans, sturdy enough to withstand just about anything." He shot her a playful look. "We should test that out tonight."

Mavuika blinked, then huffed a soft laugh, shaking her head. "You really are something else."

Aether gave her an innocent look—too innocent. "What? Just appreciating the craftsmanship of Liyue’s finest furniture."

Mavuika raised an eyebrow, amused but not the least bit fooled. "You’ve been sneaking into my quarters for months now, and yet, you still look for any excuse to get me alone."

Aether smirked, stepping a fraction closer as they continued walking. "Can you blame me?" His voice dipped slightly, a quiet murmur only she could hear. "You’re the most beautiful woman in Teyvat, and I’m madly in love with you."

Mavuika wasn’t easily flustered—she was a warrior, a god, and one of the strongest beings in the world—but the sheer devotion in Aether’s voice sent warmth curling through her. She exhaled, pretending to focus on the road ahead, but her fingers once again brushed against his for the briefest moment.

Aether caught it. And he understood.

With a knowing smile, he looked ahead, leading them toward the Ministry of Civil Affairs. "Well, guess we should finish business first." Then, in a quiet, teasing afterthought, he added, "And test some furniture later."

Mavuika could only shake her head, fondness clear in her gaze.

As they reached the steps of the Ministry of Civil Affairs, Aether suddenly stopped and reached into his magical inventory, his expression focused.

Mavuika watched as he pulled out a delicate Qingxin flower, then an Activated mushroom, and finally a few Embercore flowers. Without a word, he handed them to her one by one, his other hand still searching through his inventory.

She blinked, looking down at the small bouquet forming in her hands. "Are you… preparing for a botany lecture?"

Aether didn't answer immediately, his brows furrowing as he double-checked his inventory. When he seemed satisfied, he finally turned to her with a small, pleased smile. "Nope. These are for Ganyu."

Mavuika tilted her head. "Ganyu?"

"Yeah," Aether nodded, dusting off his hands. "She’s a Qilin, so she loves tasting all sorts of flowers. Every time I see her, I try to bring a few from different regions."

Mavuika hummed in thought, glancing at the flowers in her grasp. She remembered Aether mentioning Ganyu before—her archery skills, her rare ability to split a single shot into multiple, hitting multiple enemies at once—a formidable warrior, much like herself.

And now, apparently… a flower-eater.

She let out a soft chuckle. "So, she’s an expert marksman and she snacks on flowers? You really do have powerful friends in high places, don’t you?"

Aether smirked at the comment. "Well, my most powerful friend is standing right next to me."

Mavuika arched a brow at that. "Oh? A friend?"

Aether caught the shift in her tone, but before he could react, Mavuika exaggerated a dramatic pout. "Tell me, Aether, do you invite all of your friends to test the strength of beds, or am I just special?"

Aether blinked. Then a slow, mischievous grin spread across his lips. "Now that you mention it, I don’t recall offering that to anyone else." He leaned in slightly, voice lowering just enough to send a shiver down Mavuika’s spine. "Guess that makes you very special."

Mavuika rolled her eyes, but the warmth in her gaze betrayed her amusement. "Smooth."

"Always," Aether said with a wink before motioning towards the Ministry doors. "Shall we?"

Mavuika shook her head fondly, but as she followed him inside, she couldn't help but smile.

The Ministry of Civil Affairs was as busy as ever, with scribes and officials bustling about. As Aether and Mavuika entered, their presence drew a few subtle glances—Aether was a known figure in Liyue, and Mavuika’s striking presence as an Archon commanded quiet admiration.

At the far end of the room, Ganyu stood by a desk, her gentle expression focused as she reviewed a set of documents. Aether smiled, leading Mavuika forward.

“Ganyu,” Aether greeted warmly. The half-Qilin turned, her delicate blue hair swaying as she blinked in surprise. Then, upon recognising him, her expression softened.

“Traveler,” she said with a small, polite smile. “It’s been a while.”

Aether nodded before gesturing to Mavuika. “Let me introduce you two. Ganyu, this is Lady Mavuika, Archon of Natlan.” He turned to Mavuika. “Mavuika, this is Ganyu, Liyue’s most dedicated secretary and one of the finest archers I know.”

Mavuika gave a respectful nod. “It’s an honour to meet you, Ganyu.”

“The honour is mine,” Ganyu said with a slight bow. “I’ve heard much about Natlan’s strength and spirit.”

Without missing a beat, Aether reached into his satchel, pulling out the flowers he had prepared earlier. He held them out to Ganyu, grinning. “For you. A little something for lunch.”

Ganyu’s eyes widened in delight as she carefully took the bouquet. “Oh! Qingxin flowers… Activated mushrooms from Sumeru… and these… I’ve never seen these before.” She examined the Embercore flowers with interest.

“They’re from Natlan,” Aether explained. “Thought you might like to try something new.”

Ganyu looked touched. “Thank you, Traveler. You always bring me the most interesting flowers.”

Aether’s smile softened. Then, his expression turned knowing as he crossed his arms. “By the way, have you been resting enough?”

Immediately, Ganyu looked away, suddenly very interested in the documents on the table. “…I—Well, you see—”

Aether sighed, exasperated but fond. “Ganyu.”

She flinched at his tone, her ears twitching slightly. “I’m doing my best…”

Aether gave her a look. “You say that every time.”

Mavuika, watching their dynamic with interest, decided to step in. “If you ever need a change of pace, you’re welcome in Natlan,” she offered. “I’d love to have you visit. And, if you’re willing, my archers would greatly appreciate any guidance on your split-shot technique.”

Ganyu hesitated. “Oh, um…”

Aether, sensing her discomfort, spoke up. “Ganyu is one of the best archers I know,” he said with pride. “But the Qilin are peaceful by nature. They only take up arms when there’s no other choice—when the days turn into darkest nights.”

Mavuika considered this for a moment, then nodded in understanding. “I see. There is great strength in knowing when not to fight. I respect that.”

Ganyu gave her a small, appreciative smile. “Thank you for understanding, Lady Mavuika.”

Aether, pleased that the two were getting along, beamed. “Speaking of things to understand—” He turned to Mavuika, eyes twinkling with mischief. “Wouldn’t you like to see how Ganyu eats these flowers?”

Mavuika folded her arms, genuinely curious. “I’ll admit, I am intrigued.”

Aether grinned, then turned back to Ganyu. “We should have lunch together!”

Before Ganyu could process the sudden invitation, Aether had already spun on his heel. “I’ll go find Keqing real quick. Be right back!”

With that, he dashed off, leaving Mavuika and Ganyu alone.

There was a brief pause before Mavuika glanced at Ganyu with amusement. “Does he always run off like that?”

Ganyu sighed with a small chuckle. “More often than you’d think.”

Mavuika smirked. “Sounds about right.”

The two stood in comfortable silence for a moment before Ganyu tilted her head slightly. “You seem… very fond of him.”

Mavuika’s expression softened, her voice carrying quiet affection. “I am.”

Ganyu studied her for a moment, noting the warmth in her tone. A small, knowing smile graced her lips.

“I see,” she murmured.

Mavuika said nothing, but as she watched the direction Aether had run off in, her gaze held nothing but devotion.

Aether returned to the Ministry of Civil Affairs with a triumphant grin. “Keqing said yes.”

Ganyu looked up from her paperwork, blinking in mild surprise. “Oh? That was fast.”

Aether chuckled. “She wants you to take more breaks, too. And… well, let’s just say I’m good at persuading her.”

Mavuika, arms crossed, gave him a knowing smirk. “Persuading, huh? Or does she just have a crush on you?”

Aether coughed into his fist, feigning innocence. “Not important.”

Ganyu, completely missing the implication, smiled softly. “Keqing always worries about me. I should make sure to thank her later.”

Aether nodded, then held out his hand. "Speaking of lunch, I will need those flowers back. I’ll prepare them for your lunch.”

“Oh! Of course.” Ganyu carefully handed him the delicate bundle. “I’ll meet you both at the usual spot in half an hour, then?”

“Perfect,” Aether said warmly.

With that settled, Aether and Mavuika left the Ministry, making their way toward Mount Tianheng, behind Liyue city. After a short trek, they arrived at a large tree near the peak. The spot overlooked the harbor, the golden rooftops of Liyue reflecting the afternoon sun. Aether exhaled, stepping under the shade.

“I used to bring Ganyu here to get her to rest,” he said, glancing at Mavuika. “She’d overwork herself otherwise.”

Mavuika raised an eyebrow, arms still crossed. “You’re very fond of her.”

Aether turned to her, catching the slight teasing lilt in her voice. Smirking, he reached into his magical inventory and fished out a small mirror. He held it up in front of Mavuika’s face. “Tell me,” he said, utterly smug. “Have you ever seen anyone hotter than the person in this mirror?”

Mavuika snorted but played along, tilting her head as if considering. “Mmm… I don’t know. I see a lot of beautiful people.”

Aether sighed dramatically. “Tough crowd for comedy.”

Still grinning, he took a step closer. “Lean down a little. And close your eyes.”

Mavuika narrowed her eyes. “You’re up to something.”

“Maybe.” His voice was light, mischievous. “Trust me?”

She did. So, with a smirk of her own, she leaned down and closed her eyes. She expected a kiss—probably on her lips, maybe her forehead. What she didn’t expect was Aether sneaking an arm around her and pressing a soft kiss against her ear.

A spark of warmth shot down her spine, and she jolted slightly, eyes snapping open. “Aether.”

He chuckled, his breath still close to her skin. “See? No need to be jealous.”

Mavuika rolled her eyes but couldn’t fight the warmth blooming in her chest.

Aether pulled back slightly, watching her with amusement. “Besides, Ganyu’s cute, sure, but she’s like two thousand years old. She’s been a secretary since Liyue was founded—helped build a nation without anyone ever really noticing.”

Mavuika studied him for a moment, then let out a soft hum. “I get it now.”

Aether tilted his head. “Get what?”

She leaned against the tree, looking out over the harbour. “You two have a bond built on respect. You admire her work, and she probably admires your kindness.”

Aether blinked before smiling. “Yeah. That’s about right.”

Mavuika glanced at him, her expression soft. “I won’t be jealous, then. Instead, I’ll protect that bond.”

Aether’s heart swelled at that. He reached out, intertwining their fingers in a discreet yet meaningful touch. “Thank you,” he murmured.

Mavuika squeezed his hand. “Now,” she smirked, “should we start setting up lunch before your cute ancient adeptus friend arrives?”

Aether groaned. “You’re never letting that go, are you?”

Mavuika grinned. “Not a chance.”

As Aether set to work preparing lunch, the sound of the bubbling stew filled the quiet mountain air. He worked effortlessly, moving between stirring the pot and gently blanching the flower petals he had gathered for Ganyu. The makeshift stove, one he had used many times before, crackled softly beneath him, sending the rich aroma of his cooking drifting through the air.

Mavuika, watching from nearby, crossed her arms and let her gaze wander. She had always admired Aether’s skill in battle, but watching him cook so attentively stirred a different kind of warmth in her chest. This was a different side of him—one she had grown to love over the past few months.

The scent of food must have reached the base of the mountain because, moments later, Ganyu arrived, her normally graceful steps faltering slightly as she took a deep inhale. Her eyes sparkled, and her lips parted as if she were already tasting the meal.

“Ahh… Traveler, that smells incredible…” Ganyu murmured, unconsciously drifting closer, her hands clasped together like a child waiting for a treat.

Mavuika, who had just been teasing Aether about Ganyu’s supposed cuteness, found herself momentarily stunned.

He wasn’t exaggerating.

The way Ganyu’s blue hair swayed as she tilted her head, the slightly dazed look in her sleepy red eyes—it all came together in a way that was undeniably adorable.

Aether grinned. “Sit down, Ganyu. You’re about to have the best lunch of your life.”

She didn’t need to be told twice.

Lunch turned into a warm, easy-going affair. The stew was hearty and rich, perfectly seasoned, and Mavuika couldn’t help but sigh in satisfaction. Ganyu, meanwhile, was in her own little world, savouring every delicate bite of the flower petals. Aether had prepared extra, knowing that Ganyu’s appetite, when it came to flowers, was bottomless.

At some point, the conversation shifted to Paimon, and all three of them shared a chuckle at her expense.

“She’s probably still knocked out at the Jade Chamber,” Aether said, shaking his head. “She overdid it at brunch.”

Once lunch was over, Ganyu stretched, her arms raising above her head as she let out a long, satisfied yawn. Her eyes, already heavy with drowsiness, scanned the area. She looked for a spot on the ground, stepping around in search of smooth terrain.

Mavuika arched a brow. “What is she doing?”

Aether wiped his hands on a cloth and turned to her with a knowing smile. “Looking for a place to sleep.”

Mavuika blinked. “Already?”

Aether nodded. “It happens every time. When Ganyu is full, she curls up and falls asleep.”

Before Mavuika could process that, Aether turned to her with a request. “Here, lean against the tree and straighten your legs.”

“…Why?”

“Just trust me.”

With a sigh, Mavuika did as asked, leaning against the tree trunk and stretching her long legs in front of her.

No sooner had she done so than Ganyu, eyes fluttering shut, gently laid herself down onto Mavuika’s lap. She curled into herself, her breathing slowing until it settled into a peaceful rhythm.

Mavuika stared.

Aether grinned. “See? At least this way, she’s not sleeping on the hard ground.”

Mavuika, uncharacteristically speechless, studied the peaceful expression on Ganyu’s face. She really is cute. Carefully, she adjusted slightly to make sure the Qilin was comfortable.

Then, just as she was getting used to it, Aether slid over and positioned himself between Ganyu and Mavuika, resting his head on her thigh.

Before Mavuika could say anything, he turned his head slightly and pressed a feather-light kiss to her skin.

“Wake me up later,” he murmured, closing his eyes.

Mavuika immediately felt the heat rise to her face. Aether’s breath was warm against her skin, and the way he rested so casually on her thigh sent a spark of flustered panic through her. Her hair, ever-reactive to her emotions, glowed a soft, ember-like orange. But, of course, no one saw it—both Aether and Ganyu were asleep.

Mavuika exhaled slowly, trying to ignore the fact that Aether’s head was dangerously close to a rather intimate area. She would let them sleep for now. This is fine.

Then Aether, as if sensing her flustered state, shifted. Without warning, he playfully bit her thigh.

Mavuika jolted, her hair flaring a brighter shade of orange. She immediately reached down and tugged at his golden locks.

“Aether,” she hissed.

He cracked an eye open, smirking. “Couldn’t resist.”

Mavuika shot him a glare, though it lacked real heat. “Sleep. And control your lust.”

Aether chuckled, but this time, he obediently settled against her, his breathing slowing as he truly let himself drift off.

Just before sleep took him, he mumbled, “Doesn’t matter. I’ll dream about you anyway.”

Mavuika sighed, shaking her head fondly. As flustered as she was, she wouldn’t move an inch.

She had two people to protect in their sleep, after all.

The afternoon sun hung lazily in the sky, its golden light filtering through the tree branches and casting soft, shifting shadows over the trio. Mavuika remained perfectly still, her back against the tree as both Aether and Ganyu slept soundly against her.

Then, with a soft groan, Aether stirred first. His golden eyes fluttered open, still hazy from sleep, and the first thing he saw was Mavuika’s face above him, her fiery hair glowing faintly in the light.

Aether smirked. “Good morning, beautiful.”

Mavuika arched a brow. “Afternoon.”

“Time is fake,” he murmured, stretching his arms above his head before shamelessly nuzzling against her thigh. “What’s real is how comfortable this is.”

Mavuika rolled her eyes, reaching down to flick his forehead. “Behave. Ganyu is still asleep.”

Aether winced, rubbing his forehead. “That’s unfair… waking me up with violence.”

“Did you expect anything else from the God of Fighting?” she teased.

Before Aether could come up with a witty reply, Ganyu let out a tiny sigh, her ears twitching as she shifted on Mavuika’s other leg. Her brows furrowed, and her lips parted slightly, her voice soft and drowsy.

“Mmm… just five more minutes…”

Mavuika glanced down, amused. “She’s like a sleepy fawn.”

Aether chuckled. “Watch this.”

He leaned over, cupped his hands around his mouth, and whispered, “Ganyu… I have more flowers for you…”

Immediately, Ganyu’s ears perked up, her eyes cracking open, still hazy but now suddenly attentive.

“Flowers?” she murmured, blinking up at him.

Aether grinned. “Got your attention, didn’t I?”

Realisation dawned on her, and her cheeks flushed slightly. “Traveler…” she pouted, rubbing her eyes, “that was mean.”

Mavuika watched the exchange with fond amusement before carefully shifting her legs. Ganyu sat up slowly, stretching her arms with a content sigh. “That was the best nap I’ve had in a while…”

Aether chuckled. “See? I knew Mavuika would make a great pillow.”

Mavuika scoffed, flicking his forehead again for good measure.

Then, as Ganyu fully shook off her sleep, she looked between the two of them, something thoughtful flickering in her crimson eyes.

Aether stretched, then leaned back onto his palms. “So… Ganyu, there’s something we should probably tell you.”

Ganyu tilted her head. “Oh?”

Aether reached for Mavuika’s hand and, with a warm smile, intertwined their fingers. “Mavuika and I are together.”

There was a beat of silence before Ganyu let out a soft giggle. “I had a feeling.”

Mavuika raised an eyebrow. “You did?”

Ganyu nodded, her expression serene. “The way Aether speaks about you… it’s different from how he talks about others. And the way you looked at him while he was cooking.” She smiled. “It was sweet.”

Aether scratched the back of his neck. “Well, I guess we weren’t that subtle after all.”

Mavuika gave him a look. “I wonder why.”

Aether ignored the jab and instead turned back to Ganyu. “We’d appreciate it if you kept it quiet for now.”

Ganyu nodded immediately. “Of course. I understand.”

Mavuika studied her for a moment before smiling. “Thank you, Ganyu.”

The Qilin beamed, her sleepiness finally giving way to her usual composed nature. “I’m happy for you both. Truly.”

Aether grinned, squeezing Mavuika’s hand. “Thanks, Ganyu. Now, how about we start heading back before Keqing hunts us down?”

Ganyu chuckled. “Good idea.”

As they gathered their things, Ganyu turned to them with a gentle smile. “You two should stay and enjoy the evening here,” she suggested sincerely. “Mount Tianheng is beautiful at dusk.”

Aether blinked. “Are you sure? We don’t mind walking back with you.”

Ganyu nodded. “It’s alright. I’ll head to the Ministry on my own. You both deserve some time together.”

Mavuika studied her expression—calm, understanding, and completely genuine. There was no teasing or implication, just a quiet blessing.

Aether gave a grateful smile. “Thanks, Ganyu.”

She waved before gracefully making her way down the mountain path, her silhouette blending into the golden hues of the setting sun.

As soon as she was gone, Aether turned to Mavuika with a smirk. “So, since you let me nap on your thigh all afternoon… want to trade?” He patted his lap invitingly.

Mavuika folded her arms, eyes narrowing playfully. “Oh? And why do I feel like you have ulterior motives?”

Aether gasped, feigning offence. “Mavuika, I would never!”

She arched a brow, unimpressed. “Aether, I know you. You’ve been sneaking into my quarters for months. If I lay my head anywhere near your lower body, there’s a high chance you’ll try something.”

Aether’s expression turned innocent—too innocent. “I solemnly swear that I am up to no mischief.”

Mavuika hummed, unconvinced but amused. After a moment of pretending to deliberate, she sighed and settled down, placing her head on his lap. “Fine. But if you try anything funny, I’ll throw you down this mountain.”

Aether chuckled, his fingers instinctively running through her fiery hair. “Noted, Your Majesty.”

The air around them grew quiet, filled with the ambient sounds of the wind brushing through the leaves and the distant rush of waterfalls. The golden glow of the setting sun cast a warm light over them, painting everything in deep amber and red.

After a comfortable silence, Mavuika asked, “Did you always come here with Ganyu?”

Aether shook his head. “Not always. But whenever I noticed her getting too caught up in work, I’d drag her up here to force a break.” He smiled fondly. “She always resisted at first, but once we got here, she’d end up enjoying it.”

Mavuika smirked. “You’re really fond of her, huh?”

“Of course,” Aether said easily. “Ganyu’s one of the hardest-working people I know, and she never asks for anything in return. She deserved a friend who’d make sure she took care of herself.”

Mavuika nodded, understanding. “You have a habit of looking after everyone.”

Aether shrugged. “Someone has to.”

Mavuika glanced up at him. “And who looks after you?”

Aether faltered for a moment before smiling softly. “You do.”

Mavuika’s expression softened, her fingers lightly brushing against his arm. “Good answer.”

They fell into another comfortable silence before Aether chuckled.

“What?” Mavuika asked.

“I was just thinking,” he mused, “about how you, the God of Fighting, the strongest warrior in Teyvat, are currently resting on my lap like some delicate maiden.”

Mavuika scoffed. “Don’t get used to it.”

“Oh, I absolutely will.”

She rolled her eyes but let him continue stroking her hair, enjoying the quiet closeness between them.

As the sky deepened into twilight, Aether eventually sighed. “We should probably head back. It’s getting close to dinner.”

Mavuika smirked. “Are you offering to cook for me again?”

“Depends,” Aether teased. “Are you going to look at me with heart eyes the whole time?”

Mavuika flicked his forehead. “Shut up, Aether.”

Chapter Text

As the sun dipped below the horizon, Aether stretched and glanced toward Mavuika. “We should probably head back. If Paimon wakes up and finds out we roamed around Liyue without her, she’s going to throw a fit.”

Mavuika smirked. “What’s the worst that could happen?”

Aether gave her a knowing look.

Mavuika sighed, shaking her head. “Right. She’ll demand compensation in the form of extra food and nonstop attention.”

Aether chuckled. “Exactly. Let’s go before she declares war on us.”

With that, the couple made their way back to the Jade Chamber.

As soon as they stepped inside, a loud, familiar voice rang through the halls.

“There you are!” Paimon flew toward them, hands on her hips, cheeks puffed out. “Do you have any idea how long I’ve been waiting for you two?! I wake up from my nap, and you’re both gone! ”

Aether grinned. “We were just out for a bit.”

Paimon huffed. “Yeah, yeah, whatever. But more importantly—” she sniffed the air dramatically “—did you cook without me?!”

Aether rubbed the back of his neck. “Technically… yes.”

Paimon gasped, looking betrayed. “Traveler! I thought we had something special!”

Mavuika chuckled. “Don’t worry, Paimon. Aether’s going to cook dinner, and I’m sure he’ll make it extra delicious just for you.”

Paimon narrowed her eyes, arms crossed. “Hmmm… alright, I guess I’ll forgive you.”

Ningguang, who had been observing the reunion with amusement, suddenly smiled. “You’re cooking tonight, Traveler? What a rare treat.”

Aether nodded. “Yeah, if that’s alright with you.”

Ningguang’s eyes glinted. “More than alright. In fact, I insist.” She turned to her secretaries. “Give the official cooks the night off. Aether will be handling dinner.”

The secretaries hurried off to carry out her orders while Aether blinked in surprise. “I wasn’t expecting that much enthusiasm.”

Ningguang smirked. “You underestimate how much I enjoy a well-cooked meal, especially from someone with your talent.”

As Aether moved to the kitchen, Mavuika and Ningguang followed, both watching as he rolled up his sleeves and started gathering ingredients. It didn’t take long for their admiration to turn into playful competition.

“I must say, Traveler,” Ningguang mused, “if you ever decide to leave the adventuring life behind, I would be more than willing to employ you as my personal chef. You name your price.”

Mavuika arched a brow. “Oh? You think you can just buy Aether?”

Ningguang smiled smoothly. “Everyone has a price.”

Aether chuckled. “That so? How much are we talking?”

Ningguang tapped her chin. “Let’s start with one million Mora a month.”

Aether whistled. “That’s… generous.”

Mavuika scoffed. “Chump change. I’ll offer something priceless. ”

Ningguang glanced at her with interest. “Oh? Do tell.”

Mavuika leaned in close to Aether’s ear, her voice dropping into a sultry whisper. Whatever she said made Aether’s hands momentarily falter as he cut vegetables. His face went slightly pink before he cleared his throat and turned to Ningguang. “I, uh… yeah, I’m going to have to decline your offer.” 

He shot Mavuika a sidelong glance, a smirk tugging at his lips. “I’m afraid my heart—and my skills—are already taken.”

Ningguang’s eyes gleamed with curiosity. “I see. And what exactly did she offer?”

Mavuika crossed her arms, looking smug. “Oh, nothing much.”

Ningguang chuckled. “Cryptic. I like it.”

Paimon, however, was completely lost. “Wait, wait, what did she say?! Someone tell Paimon!”

Mavuika just smirked. “It’s a secret.”

Paimon groaned. “You guys are so unfair!”

Aether laughed, shaking his head as he resumed cooking. “Don’t worry, Paimon. You’ll forget all about it once you taste dinner.”

And sure enough, the promise of Aether’s cooking was enough to pacify her—for now.

With dinner finished and the evening winding down, Aether and Mavuika retreated to the guest room while Paimon, too full to move, sprawled across the drawing room sofa, snoring lightly.

Inside their room, the warm glow of lanterns bathed the ornately decorated space in soft gold. Aether and Mavuika changed into their sleepwear, but as they climbed into the luxuriously crafted bed, they found themselves blushing at the sheer number of bed-testing jokes they had made all day.

As they settled onto the ornately crafted bed, Aether ran his hand across the silk sheets and sighed. “You know… this bed is too comfortable.”

Mavuika arched a brow. “Are you complaining ?”

Aether smirked. “Not at all. But if we do what we usually do when we test a bed’s durability, I have a feeling Ningguang’s going to send a very formal letter tomorrow.”

Mavuika chuckled. “And why is that?”

Aether leaned in, voice dropping to a mischievous whisper. “Because the Jade Chamber is basically floating in the sky. If we get carried away, I’m pretty sure half of Liyue Harbour will hear us.”

Mavuika rolled her eyes, but a faint blush dusted her cheeks. “For someone so small, you’re rather loud. ”

Aether grinned. “And yet, you’re always the first one to—”

Mavuika immediately placed a finger on his lips. “Don’t finish that sentence.”

Aether laughed, pressing a kiss to her fingertip before gently moving her hand away. “Fine, fine. But I am serious about getting some proper sleep. It’s been a while since we had a real bed instead of camping out in the wild.”

Mavuika hummed, considering his words. “True. I suppose I’ll allow it.”

Aether smirked. “ Allow it? How generous.”

He reached out, pulling Mavuika closer, his arms wrapping around her waist as he scooted up slightly to spoon her. His face nestled into her thick, fiery hair, the warmth of her body melting into his own.

Mavuika exhaled, relaxing into his embrace. “You’re warm,” she murmured.

Aether chuckled against her hair. “You’re one to talk. I’m pretty sure the bed is warmer just because you’re in it.”

Mavuika smirked but didn’t argue. Instead, she laced her fingers through his. “Aether?”

“Mm?”

She hesitated for a moment, then whispered, “I love you.”

Aether’s heart swelled. He tightened his arms around her, pressing a light kiss to the back of her neck. “I love you too, Mav.”

The teasing and flirting settled into quiet warmth, and soon, with Aether’s breath steady against her hair and their fingers still intertwined, Mavuika drifted off to sleep - held, cherished, and undeniably loved.

Mavuika woke up as the first light of dawn crept through the windows of the Jade Chamber’s guest room. Centuries of routine had trained her to wake early, no matter how comfortable or exhausted she was. Her mind slowly stirred back to awareness, and as soon as it did, she realised something unusual.

Aether was on top of her.

Her golden eyes widened slightly. There’s no way he’d do this on his own while I was sleeping…

Then it hit her. Oh no.

She had yanked him onto her in her sleep. Not just pulled him close—no, judging by the way his smaller frame was completely sprawled over hers, she must have brute forced him into this position without even realising it. Her grip was still tight, arms locked around him possessively. Guilt crept up her spine as she carefully eased her hold.

That slight movement was enough to stir Aether awake. His golden eyes fluttered open, hazy with sleep at first, but then a knowing smirk tugged at his lips.

“Morning,” he murmured, voice still thick with drowsiness. “Slept well?”

Mavuika felt a rare heat creep up her cheeks. “Aether… I—” She sighed, shaking her head. “I didn’t mean to trap you like this. You should’ve woken me up.”

Aether chuckled, still groggy but clearly entertained. “Didn’t need to. It was warm. Cozy, even.” He stretched slightly, making himself comfortable against her once more. “Honestly, I wouldn’t mind if you did this more often.”

Mavuika raised an eyebrow. “…You wouldn’t mind ?”

He grinned up at her, mischief dancing in his gaze. “Nope. In fact… I kinda liked it.”

Mavuika stared. Oh, this man.

Before she could respond, Aether continued, now fully awake and apparently embracing his fate. “Maybe you should manhandle me more often. Pin me down. Step on me. You know, just—” he gestured vaguely, “—not with your full Archon strength.”

Mavuika blinked. Then she let out a slow, incredulous laugh. “Aether!”

“What?” he said, feigning innocence. “I’m just saying.”

Mavuika shook her head in amused disbelief. “You wake up and the first thing your brain does is activate this particular urge?”

He smirked. “Can you blame me?”

Mavuika exhaled through her nose, pretending to think about it. Then, because she loved him—and because she enjoyed teasing him—she decided to indulge him just a little.

Still keeping him on top of her, she wrapped her arms around him once more and squeezed just enough for him to feel how effortlessly she could control him.

Aether sucked in a breath. “Oh.”

She smirked. “Not so brave now, are you?”

Aether grinned but quickly tapped her arm in surrender. “Okay, okay, I admit defeat. Consider me thoroughly manhandled.”

Mavuika chuckled, finally relenting. She loosened her hold and brought a hand to his golden hair, smoothing it back before pressing a soft kiss to his forehead.

“Good,” she murmured. “Now, let’s get up before Paimon barges in looking for food.”

Aether sighed dramatically. “Fine. But you are carrying me to breakfast, right?”

Mavuika rolled her eyes but smiled nonetheless. “Don’t push your luck, traveler.”

With that, the couple finally got up, stretching and preparing themselves for the new day—though Aether was already plotting the next opportunity for Mavuika to accidentally assert her strength over him again.

Aether and Mavuika stepped out of their room, the early morning glow spilling into the halls of the Jade Chamber. One of Ningguang’s secretaries was already waiting, bowing slightly before speaking.

“Good morning, honoured guests. Breakfast will be prepared as soon as you are ready.”

Mavuika exchanged a glance with Aether before shaking her head with a small smile. “Thank you, but we’ll be having breakfast with Cloud Retainer today.”

Aether nodded in agreement. “Could you let Ningguang know? She’s probably already working, but we wanted her to be informed.”

The secretary nodded in understanding. “Of course. I will relay the message.” With that, she turned and walked briskly toward Ningguang’s office, leaving the couple alone once more.

Mavuika stretched lightly before tilting her head toward Aether. “Time to wake the tiny terror?”

Aether chuckled. “Yeah. If we don’t, she’ll sleep till noon.”

The two of them made their way to the drawing room, where Paimon was sprawled across the sofa, drooling slightly, still deep in sleep.

Aether crouched beside her and poked her cheek. “Paimon, wake up.”

The floating companion grumbled something incoherent, swatting lazily at the air. Mavuika crossed her arms, amused.

“Paimon,” Aether tried again, voice softer but more insistent.

Paimon groaned, finally cracking one eye open. “Mmm… Morning already?”

“Yes,” Aether confirmed. “Come on, get up.”

Paimon yawned, floating up slightly before rubbing her eyes. Then, as if suddenly remembering something, her expression brightened. “Breakfast?”

Aether smiled, already expecting that reaction. “We’re having breakfast with Cloud Retainer today.”

Paimon blinked. “Wait, Cloud Retainer? We’re going all the way to Mt. Aocang?”

Mavuika smirked. “What, too far for you?”

Paimon puffed up indignantly. “Paimon can handle it! But that’s far! What if Paimon gets hungry on the way?”

Aether sighed in mock exasperation. “Then I’ll feed you some sunsettia.”

Paimon grinned, now fully awake. “Deal!”

Mavuika shook her head fondly as Aether went to gather their things.

This is going to be an interesting morning.

Chapter Text

The trio set off on their trek toward Mt. Aocang, the crisp morning air filling their lungs as they climbed higher and higher. The sun had barely risen above the peaks, and the mist curled lazily around the mountaintops. It was a breathtaking sight—but for Paimon, who had been forced to wake up early, it was absolute misery. 

“Ughhh…” Paimon whined, floating sluggishly beside Aether. “Paimon is dying… so tired… so hungry… This is torture…”

Aether sighed, already expecting this. Before she could throw herself dramatically to the ground, he pulled a ripe Sunsettia from his inventory and handed it to her. “Here. Eat this before you actually faint.”

Paimon immediately perked up, snatching the fruit and taking a huge bite. “Mmm! Sweet! Juicy! Traveler, you always know what Paimon needs!”

Mavuika watched as Paimon nestled herself into Aether’s arms, happily munching away as he carried her effortlessly. She couldn’t help but shake her head in amusement. But despite the lightheartedness of the moment, Mavuika found herself feeling… uneasy. Her fingers curled slightly at her sides as she recalled something Aether had said to Ningguang earlier—about how he thought of Cloud Retainer as his mother.

Cloud Retainer, an ancient Adeptus, someone Aether held in such high regard. And now, she was going to meet her.

Mavuika wasn’t one to get nervous, but the weight of the meeting suddenly settled on her shoulders. Would Cloud Retainer approve of her? Would she think Mavuika was unworthy of Aether? The thought was ridiculous—Mavuika was a god, she had nothing to prove to anyone—but this was different. 

Hesitantly, she spoke up. “Aether… What is Cloud Retainer like?”

Aether instantly picked up on the tension in her voice. He tilted his head to look at her, golden eyes searching hers with knowing warmth.

Paimon, surprisingly, also caught on. She floated closer, swallowing the last of her Sunsettia before waving a hand. “Oh, Mavuika, don’t worry! Cloud Retainer may be a bit… eccentric, but she loves when her friends visit her!”

Aether nodded in agreement, his tone reassuring. “She won’t ever ask people to visit, but she’s always happy when they do.” He gave Mavuika a small, comforting smile. “She’s… a little old-fashioned. She likes to be properly praised and respected, as befits an Adeptus. But if you do that, she’ll warm up to you quickly.”

Mavuika nodded slowly, taking that in.

“And if you really want to impress her,” Aether continued, smirking slightly, “show her something mechanical or something related to cooking. She’s fascinated by both.”

Mavuika blinked. “Mechanical?”

“She’s obsessed,” Paimon said, rolling her eyes. “Traveler impressed her with his cooking, so she immediately took a liking to him.”

Mavuika hummed in thought, then smiled. “I have Flamestrider .”

Aether’s grin widened. “Exactly. You should show her your bike while I cook breakfast for everyone.”

Paimon clapped her hands together. “Ooh! That’s a good plan! Paimon approves!”

Unknown to Paimon, Aether reached over and gave Mavuika’s shoulder a light squeeze—just a brief, reassuring touch.

Mavuika exhaled, her tension easing just a little. She loved how easily Aether could reassure her. She had fought countless battles, stood unshaken against the strongest warriors—but Aether was the one who made her feel safe.

She met his gaze, her lips curving into a soft smile. “Alright,” she said, her voice lighter now. “Let’s go meet your mom.”

As they reached the outskirts of Cloud Retainer’s domain, Aether came to a stop, scanning the area before nodding to himself.

“This is a good spot,” he said, setting down his bag and rolling up his sleeves.

Mavuika raised an eyebrow. “We’re not going inside?”

Aether shook his head, a knowing smirk on his lips. “It’s considered rude to knock on an Adeptus’ door uninvited. If she’s in seclusion, disturbing her would be disrespectful.” He stretched his arms, then reached for his cooking supplies. “Instead, I’ll just start making breakfast here. The smell will bring her out.”

Paimon floated in excitement. “Heh heh! You’re devious, Traveler! Cloud Retainer won’t be able to resist!”

Mavuika chuckled, leaning back against a nearby rock. “So we lure her out with food? That’s a strategy I can respect.”

Aether grinned. “It’s worked before.”

Without further ado, he got to work. He pulled out a portable stove, lit the flame, and took out a pan. The rich scent of melting butter filled the crisp morning air as he placed thick slices of bread onto the pan, toasting them to a perfect golden brown.

Next, he drizzled honey over the toast, the syrup glistening under the morning light. He moved on to sautéing fresh vegetables, their colours vibrant as they sizzled in the pan, releasing an aroma that mingled beautifully with the buttery toast. Lastly, he prepared a light, delicately flavoured soup—simple yet warm, perfect for a morning in the mountains.

Paimon, as expected, was practically drooling as she hovered over the stove. “Traveler… just a tiny bite…”

Aether, without looking up, flicked her forehead. “Wait till it’s done.”

“Meanie!” Paimon pouted but didn’t retreat, instead watching the food with the intense focus of a hunter waiting for its prey.

Mavuika lounged on a smooth, sun-warmed rock a short distance from Aether, arms folded as she watched him work. She had seen Aether fight with relentless ferocity, wielding elements as though they were mere extensions of himself. She had seen him command the battlefield with an effortless grace, his golden hair whipping through the wind like the banners of a war hero. Yet, here he was, standing before a makeshift stove on a mountaintop, sleeves rolled up, posture relaxed, utterly focused on preparing breakfast.

It was an oddly domestic sight.

And then, the thought struck her. Aether would make a very dedicated husband.

Mavuika felt heat creep up her neck, and before she could stop herself, her hair flickered with a warm orange glow.

Aether, ever perceptive, caught it from the corner of his eye. Still stirring the soup, he glanced her way with a knowing smirk. “What’s that for?” he asked, amusement lacing his voice.

Mavuika immediately shook her head, dispelling the thought like clearing away mist from a battlefield. “Nothing,” she said, forcing herself to focus on the present.

But she was surprised. Why had such an image come to her so naturally?

Just as Mavuika was dispelling her thoughts, a faint ripple of adeptal energy coursed through the air. The golden morning light shimmered as a great white crane materialised near the entrance of Cloud Retainer’s domain, her sharp eyes scanning the scene. The scent of warm butter, honey, and sautéed vegetables had drawn her out, just as Aether predicted.

The crane let out a soft, thoughtful hum before descending gracefully. Mid-air, she shifted forms, her elegant feathers folding into the flowing robes of a stately woman. The one known as Xianyun now stood before them, her expression calm but inquisitive.

She folded her hands into her sleeves, her gaze sweeping across the group before settling on Aether.

“This one had suspected a trick of this nature,” she mused, her tone laced with knowing amusement. “To lure this one from seclusion using the art of fine cooking… This, of course, is hardly unexpected from this Traveler.”

Aether smiled, stepping forward. “It’s good to see you again, Cloud Retainer—ah, Xianyun.” He dipped his head respectfully. “I figured you’d appreciate the gesture more than a knock on your door.”

Xianyun huffed softly, though her eyes gleamed with approval. “Indeed. Unlike the mortals of Liyue Harbour, this one has little patience for unnecessary disturbances. But a guest of this one’s choosing, arriving properly, bearing food? A much preferable approach.”

Mavuika observed the exchange with interest. Aether had described Xianyun as motherly but proud, and she could see it now—her words carried wisdom and authority, yet beneath them lay a subtle warmth, particularly in the way she regarded Aether.

Aether, ever the diplomat, turned to Mavuika with an easy smile. “Xianyun, allow me to introduce Mavuika.” He gestured towards her. “She’s the Pyro Archon of Natlan, and also…” His voice softened slightly. “She’s my partner.”

Xianyun’s eyes sharpened, her keen intellect immediately honing in on the significance of the statement. She studied Mavuika for a long moment, as if weighing her worth. Then, with a measured nod, she spoke. “The one sees,” she said. “So this is the flame that has entwined itself with the Traveler’s light.”

Mavuika remained calm under the scrutinising gaze, but Aether tensed slightly beside her. Xianyun’s expression softened as she turned to Aether.

“This one recalls when the Traveler arrived in Liyue, merely a wandering soul in search of his kin,” she mused. “And now, he stands before this one as a man with both purpose and companionship.” A hint of fondness slipped into her voice. “It is a relief to see you well, Traveler.”

Aether smiled. “I had a lot of help along the way.”

Xianyun hummed in approval before turning back to Mavuika. And then, in the way only a mother figure could, she began her interrogation. “This one must inquire—what, pray tell, drew you to the Traveler?”

Mavuika was unfazed. “His strength, his kindness, and his unshakable will.”

Xianyun arched an eyebrow. “And are you prepared for the burdens that accompany such a man? The Traveler’s journey is ceaseless; his heart is bound to many across Teyvat. Do you possess the patience to walk alongside him?”

Mavuika nodded without hesitation. “I do. And I intend to protect him, just as he has protected so many.”

Xianyun studied her again, then let out a pleased hum. “Hmph. A bold claim, but not an empty one, the one suspects.”

She continued, “And what of the Traveler? Does he treat you well? If he is neglectful, this one shall set him straight.”

Aether sighed in exaggerated defeat. “Xianyun, you’ve known me for years. Do you really think I’d mistreat my own girlfriend?”

“This one merely ensures that you have not, in a moment of thoughtlessness, caused undue distress,” Xianyun responded loftily. “Young love is often rife with foolishness.”

Aether groaned. Paimon snickered. Mavuika, on the other hand, smiled slightly. She appreciated Xianyun’s protective nature—it reminded her of Natlan’s elders who watched over their people with the same quiet care.

Before Xianyun could continue her interrogation, Aether clapped his hands together. “Alright! Breakfast is ready. We can continue this conversation while eating.”

Xianyun considered this, then gracefully took a seat. “Very well. This one shall partake.”

As they settled down, Aether served the food, and Mavuika couldn’t help but feel a sense of warmth in the air. Xianyun may have been an Adeptus, but in that moment, she felt more like a watchful mother—one who had taken Aether into her quiet affections long before Mavuika had entered the picture.

And now, it seemed, she was being evaluated as part of the family.

Just as Paimon was about to take her first ecstatic bite of toast, a gust of wind stirred the treetops. The sound of careful yet powerful footsteps approached, and a tall, silver-haired woman emerged from the mist-draped path leading up the mountain.

Shenhe.

She gazed at the gathered group with her usual serene expression, but there was a quiet curiosity in her eyes. “I heard voices from Mt. Aocang and sensed a familiar presence,” she stated simply. “It is you, Traveler.”

Aether turned with a bright smile. “Shenhe! It’s good to see you.”

Without hesitation, Shenhe stepped forward and, to everyone’s shock, wrapped Aether in a firm but careful hug.

Paimon nearly choked on her toast. Xianyun blinked, her expression momentarily unreadable. Even Mavuika raised an eyebrow.

Shenhe, sensing the surprise, pulled back slightly, tilting her head. “Did I do it wrong?”

Aether chuckled. “Not at all. Just… unexpected.”

Shenhe nodded, satisfied. “Xianyun once told me that this is how humans welcome their loved ones back after a long absence.”

At that, all eyes turned to Xianyun. The elegant adeptus, who always carried herself with an air of lofty wisdom, suddenly looked faintly flustered. She cleared her throat, folding her hands into her sleeves.

“A mere observation of mortal customs,” Xianyun said quickly. “This one, of course, remains largely disinterested in such trivialities.”

Aether smirked. “Uh-huh.”

Mavuika, amused, watched the exchange before Shenhe turned her gaze on her.

“Who is this?” Shenhe asked.

Aether, still smiling, gestured to Mavuika. “This is Mavuika. She’s the Pyro Archon… and she’s my love.”

Shenhe blinked once, then twice. Without hesitation, she stepped forward and embraced Mavuika as well.

Mavuika, taken slightly off guard, was immediately enveloped in a surprisingly tight hold. But before she could say anything, Shenhe murmured, “You’re very warm.”

Mavuika chuckled. “I’d hope so. I am the Pyro Archon.”

Shenhe simply nodded, content, before stepping back.

Aether, as always, smoothly took control of the introductions. “Mavuika, this is Shenhe. She’s a good friend, a powerful fighter, and one of the strongest people I know.”

Mavuika extended a hand, and Shenhe grasped it in a firm handshake. Immediately, Mavuika noticed the sheer strength in her grip. It wasn’t just raw power—there was control, tempered discipline.

She arched an eyebrow. “You’re strong.”

Paimon, always eager to add dramatic flair, hovered nearby. “Strong? That’s an understatement! Shenhe can pick up massive boulders like they’re Sunsettias! One time, she threw an entire ruin guard off a cliff like it was nothing!”

Mavuika’s respect for Shenhe rose instantly. Aether, ever the strategist, chimed in. “Actually, Mav, if you used Cryo powers, Shenhe’s fighting style would turbocharge them. She has a unique ability that amplifies the power of Cryo attacks, multiplying their impact depending on how many people are fighting alongside her.”

His eyes gleamed as he started explaining battle mechanics in depth, detailing Shenhe’s ability to cast blessings that enhanced Cryo strikes. He painted a vivid picture of how she functioned in a team, from her ability to infuse allies with her strength to the way she effortlessly shredded through enemy defences.

Mavuika listened, utterly enraptured. She was the God of War—strategy, tactics, and combat dynamics were woven into her very essence. And seeing Aether speak so animatedly about it, the fire in his eyes matching her own, made her heart swell.

She stared at him, her golden eyes softening, her expression unconsciously tender. She loved him—deeply, wholly. The way he thought, the way he fought, the way his mind worked so fluidly between battle and care… it captivated her.

Xianyun and Paimon both noticed the look she was giving him. Paimon nudged Xianyun conspiratorially, and Xianyun merely smirked.

Shenhe, however, was completely unaware. She was focused entirely on Aether’s voice, the steady rhythm of it grounding her.

As Aether continued his tactical breakdown, Mavuika exhaled softly, thinking: How did I get so lucky?

As everyone finished their breakfast, the group settled in with cups of warm tea, the scent of fresh leaves blending with the lingering aroma of Aether’s cooking. The atmosphere was peaceful, the kind of warmth that only came from shared meals and good company.

Aether reached into his bag and pulled out a neatly bound document. “Xianyun, I wanted to show you this,” he said, setting it on the table. “This is the agreement Mavuika and I signed with Ningguang. We’re establishing diplomatic ties between Liyue and Natlan.”

Xianyun raised a delicate brow as she picked up the document, scanning it with keen eyes. “And why, pray tell, has this one been presented with such a matter?”

Aether smiled. “Because I trust you,” he said simply. “You’re one of the wisest people I know, and I wanted someone neutral to look over it—someone who wouldn’t be swayed by politics or personal gain. I couldn’t think of anyone better.”

For a moment, Xianyun was silent. Her usual poised expression didn’t falter, but internally, she melted. To think this child regards me with such esteem…

She cleared her throat, setting the contract down. “A most sound decision,” she said, masking her fondness with professional detachment. “This one will ensure all is in order.”

Then, with a graceful nod, she added, “If we are to officiate this contract properly, a formal gathering would be prudent. This one shall extend an invitation to Ningguang and her delegation to join us for lunch here on Mt. Aocang.”

Aether’s face lit up. “That’s perfect! But… would it be alright if I invited a few more people? Shenhe, Zhongli, Keqing, Ganyu, and Yanfei?”

Xianyun feigned contemplation, resting her fingers lightly against her chin. To have so many of my acquaintances gathered here… In truth, she was immensely pleased at the thought of a lively gathering, but she kept her expression neutral.

After a pause, she gave a deliberate nod. “This one finds your request reasonable.”

Paimon snickered. “Yeah, yeah, don’t act all reserved! You’re secretly loving this, aren’t you?”

Xianyun took a sip of her tea, utterly composed. “Nonsense.”

Aether chuckled, while Shenhe, who had been listening quietly, simply nodded in approval of the plan.

Xianyun set down her teacup. “As this one shall be the host, I shall prepare the meal myself.”

Aether immediately perked up. “Then I’d like to come early and help.”

Xianyun’s composure wavered for half a second. Such a thoughtful boy… She waved a hand dismissively. “That will not be necessary.”

But Aether simply smiled and asked again, his golden eyes warm with sincerity. “I insist.”

Xianyun relented with a soft sigh. “Very well. If you wish to be of assistance, this one shall not refuse.”

Shenhe, having observed the exchange, straightened. “I will come early as well.”

Mavuika watched the interaction closely. She had been uncertain before about how Aether’s bond with Xianyun would affect her, but now she understood. His friends cared about him deeply. And it was clear they had questions about her .

She made her decision swiftly. “I’ll go with Ningguang instead,” she said, stretching her arms leisurely. “We’ll arrive together for lunch.”

Aether gave her an appreciative glance—he knew she understood.

With the plan settled, the couple and Paimon set an appointment for the next day, exchanged farewells, and began their descent down the mountain to deliver invitations.

Halfway down the trail, Mavuika suddenly stopped. Aether and Paimon turned to her, puzzled.

Mavuika let out a small laugh. “I just realised… I never needed to impress Xianyun with Flamestrider.”

Aether smiled knowingly. “Nope.”

Paimon grinned. “You got accepted into the family naturally !”

Mavuika glanced back up the path they had descended, then at Aether. A gentle warmth spread through her chest.

Family, huh?

Chapter Text

The streets of Liyue bustled with life as Aether, Mavuika, and Paimon descended from Mt. Aocang and entered the city. Their steps led them toward the fountain near Madam Ping’s toy shop, where they spotted a familiar red-haired legal expert engaged in an animated conversation with the elderly Adeptus.

Aether’s golden eyes glinted with mischief. He held up a hand, signalling Mavuika and Paimon to stay back. Then, he crept forward, moving silently across the stone-paved streets until he was right behind Yanfei.

She was too caught up in her discussion to notice. “Madam Ping, you see, according to the revised regulations under Liyue’s new maritime trade laws, there exists a subsection regarding—"

Aether reached out and lightly brushed his fingers against one of her antlers.

Yanfei’s entire body jolted as a strange mix of static electricity and warmth surged through her. The ticklish sensation on her sensitive antlers made her eyes widen in shock.

“WHA—?!” She spun around, half-ready to deliver a cease and desist followed by a legal complaint (and maybe a fireball) to whoever dared to touch her antlers without permission—until she saw who it was.

Aether, standing there, looking at her with that cheeky, golden-eyed smile.

Her anger deflated instantly, replaced by a rush of emotions. Traveler?!

Without a second thought, she threw her arms around him, pressing her face to his shoulder. “You idiot, do you know how long it’s been?!”

Aether laughed and hugged her back. “I missed you too, Yanfei.”

She pulled away just enough to look at him, still gripping his arms. He’s back, and he’s still as unfairly cute as ever— No. No, focus. “What are you even doing here? When did you get back to Liyue? Why didn’t you come see me sooner?”

Before Aether could answer, Paimon zipped over, grinning. “Hey, don’t forget about us!”

Yanfei blinked and finally took notice of the two figures standing a few steps away. She recognised Paimon immediately, but the tall, striking woman beside her? That was new.

Aether pulled back, gesturing between them. “Yanfei, this is Mavuika, the Pyro Archon of Natlan.” He turned to Mavuika. “Mav, this is Yanfei, Liyue’s top legal expert and part-Adeptus.”

Yanfei’s brain took a full two seconds to process the words Pyro Archon .

Mavuika gave her a friendly nod. “Aether told me a lot about you,” she said. “He said your companionship helped him understand Liyue’s legal system. That knowledge was invaluable in our negotiations with Ningguang.”

Yanfei froze.

Wait.
Back up.
What?

Her mind raced at warp speed.

He told her about me? He paid attention to my legal talk? He actually studied Liyue’s laws because of me?!

No one ever willingly paid attention when she got lost in legal discussions—not even the people who had to! But Traveler? Traveler , of all people, studied because of her?

Yanfei’s face heated up. She had been talking so much about law, about contracts, about trade negotiations— and he listened?

She swallowed hard, trying to keep her cool, but the thoughts wouldn’t stop.

Okay, okay, maybe he just found it useful, that’s all. That doesn’t mean he likes me—
But then why did he always let her ramble? Why did he never look bored?
Oh no.
Wait, what if he does like me?

Her heartbeat jumped.

No, no, maybe he was just being nice. Or maybe he—

“Yanfei?”

Aether’s voice snapped her back to reality.

“Huh?”

“You kinda… zoned out there.”

“I-I did not,” she lied, ears burning.

Madam Ping chuckled knowingly, sipping her tea. “Oh, my dear, your thoughts are practically visible on your face.”

Paimon, of course, made it worse. “Pfft—Yanfei, you’re thinking way too hard about this, aren’t you?”

Yanfei opened her mouth, then closed it. How dare they be this perceptive?

She cleared her throat and tried to regain her composure. “Ahem. Well, uh… welcome to Liyue, Lady Mavuika. It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

Mavuika smirked slightly, eyes flickering with amusement—she knew exactly what was happening. “Likewise, Yanfei.”

Yanfei nodded stiffly, willing herself not to think about anything too hard.

And then—Aether, the absolute menace, reached up and flicked one of her antlers again.

Yanfei nearly combusted. “TRAVELER!!!”

Yanfei took a deep breath, smoothing down the collar of her robes as she tried to regain her composure. Curse Aether and his mischief. And his stupid warm hands. And his— No. No more thinking about that.

“So,” she said, crossing her arms and shifting into lawyer mode. “What brings you three to Liyue this time? Don’t tell me you’re here to stir up legal trouble—because if you are, I will have to fine you.”

Aether chuckled. “Nothing like that. Actually, it’s about some recent negotiations with Ningguang.”

That got Yanfei’s full attention. “Negotiations?”

Aether quickly summarized the events—his and Mavuika’s discussions with Ningguang, the agreement they signed, and their visit to Cloud Retainer to seek her approval as a neutral observer. Then he explained the lunch invitation. “It’ll be a chance to catch up, and Cloud Retainer will be cooking. I figured you wouldn’t want to miss that.”

Yanfei’s eyes gleamed with interest. Negotiations, legal documents, contracts? That was her whole thing! And Cloud Retainer cooking? That was an even rarer treat.

She nodded thoughtfully. “Hmm, so Ningguang agreed to the terms, and now you’re making it official with an Adeptus overseeing it. Smart move. Though, I’m curious—why Cloud Retainer? Not that I disagree, of course.”

Aether smiled. “Because she’s the most neutral person I could think of in Liyue.”

Yanfei blinked. That was… incredibly high praise, Cloud Retainer would have surely melted at that.

Madam Ping chuckled, taking a sip of her tea. “That friend of mine will be insufferably pleased by that compliment, I just know it.”

Yanfei smirked. “Yeah, I bet.”

As the conversation settled, Yanfei’s gaze flickered between Aether and Mavuika.

She had been trying not to overthink it, but the more she observed, the clearer it became—Aether and Mavuika had an ease between them, a quiet, unspoken understanding. Their body language was subtle but telling: the way Aether always shifted slightly in her direction, as if drawn to her presence, or the way Mavuika’s eyes softened whenever he spoke.

It wasn’t definitive proof, but Yanfei had spent years studying how people behaved under questioning. She could feel something there.

Still, she had no intention of asking outright. Asking a god about her relationship with the hero of Teyvat? That seemed beyond her pay grade.

For now, she’d just observe.

The warm, fragrant air of the Third Round Knockout enveloped them as Aether, Mavuika, and Paimon stepped inside. The soft murmur of patrons enjoying their tea, the occasional burst of laughter, and the rhythmic clack of tea cups against wooden tables painted a lively yet serene picture.

At a corner table, seated with perfect poise, was Zhongli. As expected, he was nursing a freshly brewed cup of tea, his golden eyes watching over the gentle performance of Yun Jin, her melodic voice weaving a tale of old Liyue.

The moment Aether approached, Zhongli’s gaze shifted, a knowing smile forming.

“Ah, Traveler. It has been some time since we last shared tea in Liyue Harbour.”

His tone was warm, carrying the weight of countless years and unshaken wisdom. He set his tea down with a deliberate motion, a silent invitation for them to join him.

As Aether and Paimon took their seats, Mavuika remained standing for a moment, her sharp golden eyes appraising Zhongli just as he was assessing her. There was something enigmatic about him—his presence felt grounded, like the very mountains of Liyue, unyielding yet composed.

Likewise, Zhongli sensed immense power within Mavuika, as though he were gazing upon a roaring flame barely contained within human form. But he did not recognise her.

“And who might this be?” he asked, tone polite but tinged with curiosity.

Aether smiled and gestured towards her. “Zhongli, this is Mavuika, the current Pyro Archon of Natlan.”

Zhongli’s eyes widened slightly, and for the briefest moment, there was a flicker of something in his gaze—recognition, memory, perhaps nostalgia.

“The Pyro Archon,” Zhongli murmured, contemplative. “How fascinating. I once knew Xbalanque, the First of Natlan’s rulers. Yet, I regret to say, we never had the pleasure of meeting before now.”

Mavuika sat down across from him, studying him as one warrior might study another before a duel—not with hostility, but with a desire to understand.

“Xbalanque left behind great expectations,” Mavuika admitted. “I have done my best to honour his legacy while forging my own. And I have, of course, heard of you—Lord of Geo, Rex Lapis, the great Morax.”

At this, Zhongli chuckled lightly and picked up his tea once more. “Ah… I am but a humble consultant now.”

His words were practised, but there was something in his gaze—a flicker of quiet amusement, as if he already knew that neither Aether nor Mavuika were buying the act entirely.

After some tea was poured and exchanged, Aether leaned forward.

“Actually, Zhongli, there’s something important we came to discuss.”

Aether pulled a scroll from his inventory and placed it on the table—the signed contract from Ningguang. Zhongli looked at it with mild interest, but his curiosity piqued when Aether continued.

“This is the official agreement between Liyue and Natlan—Ningguang and Mavuika signed it, and we need a neutral party to oversee its execution. I chose Xianyun instead of you.”

Aether’s words were direct, as he never liked to dance around explanations with Zhongli. The former Geo Archon’s expression did not change, but there was a subtle pause in his movements.

“Oh?” Zhongli folded his hands together. “And why is that?”

Mavuika also turned to Aether, interested in hearing how he’d phrase it.

Aether took a sip of his own tea before explaining. “You’re the God of Contracts. If we wanted the most qualified person, you would be the obvious choice. But in order for you to be neutral, you’d have to publicly declare yourself as Morax. That would undo everything you’ve worked for—the peace you’ve found living as Zhongli.”

The words hung in the air for a moment. Paimon and Mavuika were silent, watching for his reaction.

Zhongli closed his eyes briefly, exhaling through his nose in what could only be described as an old man’s fond amusement.

“Hah… I see. And you thought of all this on your own?”

“Well, Yanfei’s work rubbed off on him,” Mavuika teased lightly, nudging Aether.

Zhongli nodded approvingly. “Traveler, you have always displayed great wisdom in battle, but it seems your time in Liyue has sharpened your wisdom in politics and diplomacy as well.”

There was a touch of pride in his voice—not the pride of a ruler, but the quiet approval of a mentor watching his student grow.

“It is true,” Zhongli continued, “that while I would have fulfilled the role admirably, I would not have been… the right choice.”

His eyes drifted down to the contract, fingers tracing the edge of the parchment. “Xianyun is a most suitable alternative. While she may claim detachment from mortal affairs, she still holds a deep love for those in Liyue. Perhaps more than she realises.”

Aether smiled at Zhongli’s understanding and continued. “She invited Ningguang, Yanfei, Keqing, Ganyu, and you to a lunch gathering tomorrow to go over the agreement. She’ll be cooking.”

“Ah… Cloud Retainer’s cooking.” Zhongli set his tea down, fingers tapping once against the table. “A most rare and treasured experience. I believe it has been many years since I last had the pleasure.”

There was something almost wistful in his voice, like an old man reminiscing about the flavours of his youth.

“Then I take it you’ll come?” Aether asked.

Zhongli gave a slight nod. “I would not miss it.”

“Oh! And Shenhe will be helping with preparations too,” Aether added. “She wanted to contribute.”

Zhongli gave a knowing hum. “Shenhe continues to grow… Xianyun has taught her well.”

Aether leaned back, satisfied with the conversation’s outcome.

As the conversation shifted to lighter topics, Mavuika found herself quietly observing Zhongli. This was a god who had shaped a nation, yet now he sat with them like any other man, savouring tea, reminiscing, and choosing his path.

Mavuika respected that.

She wasn’t sure if she could ever detach herself from Natlan the way Zhongli had from Liyue. But perhaps, like him, she could learn that power was not always about holding on—it was also about trusting others to carry the flame forward.

Zhongli caught her watching him, and his eyes gleamed with understanding. “You are quite the fascinating Archon, Lady Mavuika.”

She smirked, lifting her teacup. “And you are a most fascinating former Archon, Lord Morax.”

As Aether, Mavuika, and Paimon stood up to leave, Aether hesitated for just a moment before glancing at Zhongli.

"Oh, before we go," he said casually, "Mavuika and I are together."

Zhongli, ever composed, merely blinked once. Then, a knowing glint flickered in his golden eyes as he nodded. "Ah… I see." His tone was unreadable, but there was warmth beneath the layers of practiced neutrality. "Congratulations are in order, then. May your journey together be a prosperous one."

Mavuika inclined her head in gratitude, while Aether simply smiled.

And then—Paimon struck. The floating companion zipped closer to Zhongli, cupping her tiny hands near his ear, but she was whispering so loudly that the couple could hear every word.

"Okay, okay, so get this—Traveler's been sneaking out at night to meet Mavuika for months now! He thinks no one knows, but Paimon knows everything!"

Aether choked on air. "P-Paimon!" he sputtered, ears already turning red.

Zhongli hummed, raising an eyebrow but otherwise remaining unperturbed.

Paimon wasn’t done. She leaned in again, voice still at full "whisper" volume.

"And and you won’t believe how much Traveler stares at her! It’s like he’s under some kinda spell! Every time she does anything—bam!" She smacked her hands together. "Heart eyes!"

Mavuika covered her face with one hand, her hair glowing orange from sheer embarrassment. "Paimon," she groaned, "please stop."

Paimon, of course, did not stop. "Oh, oh, and the best part—Mavuika gets all flustered when Aether gets too close! Her hair starts glowing! She thinks no one notices, but Paimon notices everything!"

Zhongli, watching this unfold with the amused patience of an immortal who had seen centuries of lovers fumbling through romance, took a slow sip of his tea.

"Ah, young love," he mused. "It is always a sight to behold."

Mavuika, still glowing, sighed in defeat.

"We're leaving," she muttered, grabbing Paimon by the collar. "Now."

Paimon protested as she was dragged away by Mavuika against her will.

Zhongli watched them go, smiling just slightly into his tea. "A most fitting pair," he murmured to himself.

As the trio made their way toward the Ministry of Civil Affairs, Aether narrowed his eyes at Paimon, suspicion creeping into his voice. “Paimon… how exactly did you know I was sneaking out at night?”

Paimon, still buzzing with mischief from teasing them in front of Zhongli, placed her hands on her hips and grinned. “Hah! You think you can outsmart Paimon?”

Aether furrowed his brows. “You were asleep. And I was always back before you woke up. How—?”

Paimon giggled ominously before floating closer to his ear and loudly whispering: “Paimon always wakes up for a midnight snack~”

Mavuika snorted. 

Aether, on the other hand, froze. “…You—wait—every single night?”

Paimon nodded, grinning ear to ear. “Yup! You think you’re sneaky, but Paimon’s tummy is sneakier! Every time you got up, Paimon woke up too! At first, I thought you were just stretching your legs, but then it happened again. And again! And that’s when Paimon knew—Traveler was up to something fishy!”

Aether ran a tired hand down his face. “And you didn’t say anything?!”

Paimon cackled. “Of course not! Paimon wanted to see how long you’d last before getting caught!”

Mavuika, who had been desperately trying to keep a straight face, failed. Her lips twitched, but before she could stop herself— Her hair flared orange.

Paimon, ever the menace, caught it immediately. “Aha! Mavuika’s blushing again!”

Mavuika gritted her teeth. “I am not.”

Paimon zoomed in, eyes sparkling with mischief. “Ohhh yes, you are! Your hair is all glowy again!~”

Aether looked up, saw the fiery glow, and smirked. “She’s right, you know.”

Mavuika groaned, covering her face with one hand. “I will set you both on fire.”

Paimon burst into uncontrollable laughter, while Aether just grinned like an absolute menace.

When they stepped into the Ministry of Civil Affairs, Aether immediately spotted Keqing and Ganyu buried under stacks of paperwork. The sight was almost comical—Keqing, furiously scribbling down notes, a slight furrow in her brow, while Ganyu had the tiniest pout on her lips as she flipped through endless documents.

Mavuika, hands on her hips, glanced at Aether. "Are they always like this?"

Aether sighed. "Every time."

Keqing noticed them first, blinking in surprise before setting her brush down. "Traveler? You're back. And Mavuika, it's good to see you again."

Ganyu looked up next, her tired eyes brightening at the sight of Aether. "Welcome back!" Then, noticing Paimon, she smiled softly. "And Paimon too, of course."

Paimon waved. "Heya! We came with good news!"

Aether, with his most charming grin, presented the invitation. "Tomorrow, Cloud Retainer is hosting a lunch at Mt. Aocang. We’re all invited—Mavuika, me, you two, Ningguang, Yanfei, Shenhe… even Zhongli."

Keqing immediately stiffened. "That sounds lovely, but I have an entire backlog of—"

"And Cloud Retainer will be cooking," Aether cut in smoothly, "with my help."

There was a beat of silence.

Ganyu, who had been nodding along to Keqing’s excuse, suddenly hesitated. "Cloud Retainer… is cooking?"

Aether nodded, pressing the advantage. "You both work too much. One afternoon away won’t cause Liyue to collapse. And I already know what you both like to eat." He tapped his chin thoughtfully. "Ganyu, I'll make that light vegetable broth you like. And Keqing, I’ll be preparing that stir-fried jade parcels dish you always order."

Ganyu fidgeted. The mere thought of Aether cooking for her again, combined with Cloud Retainer’s unmatched culinary skill, was… very tempting.

Keqing, however, tried one last attempt at resistance. "But—"

"Keqing," Aether leaned slightly closer, tone light but firm. "Come on. You want to go. I can tell."

Keqing opened her mouth. Closed it. Then, with a small sigh, she leaned back in her chair, grumbling. "Fine. But only because you’re persistent."

Ganyu, now completely on board, smiled softly. "I suppose… one afternoon off wouldn't hurt."

Paimon cheered. "That's the spirit!"

Mavuika watched in quiet amusement as Aether effortlessly outmanoeuvred two of Liyue’s most diligent officials. She leaned down to whisper. "You really are loved, huh?"

Aether only grinned. "Took you this long to notice?"

No sooner did the trio return to the Jade Chamber, than a flash of blue shot through the air. Before Mavuika could react, a hydro-infused lasso wrapped around Aether’s torso, yanking him off his feet and straight into one of the dimly lit corners of the chamber.

Mavuika instinctively bristled, flames flickering faintly at her fingertips. Someone had just roped Aether away in an instant, and he hadn’t even struggled. Her first instinct was to burn the culprit where they stood, but before she could act, she noticed something strange—Aether wasn’t resisting.

That was unlike him.

Mavuika narrowed her eyes, fists clenched. Then, realization dawned. Aether liked it when she got a little rough with him. She had learned that much in their time together. Now, not only had someone else just yanked him away like a toy, but he wasn’t complaining.

Now, she was annoyed for two reasons.

From the shadows, a smooth, teasing voice drifted out. "Now, now, Traveler, it’s been far too long. Didn’t your instincts warn you this might happen?"

Aether, still bound, let out a sigh, but there was a smile in his voice. "Yelan, I should’ve known it was you."

Yelan stepped into the light, towering slightly over him, her usual smirk in place. The Hydro Vision at her waist glowed faintly, the lasso in her hands taut but not constricting. It was clear she had no intention of actually harming him—this was just her way of saying hello.

Mavuika folded her arms, her irritation simmering.

Aether, despite being tied up, acted like this was just another casual conversation. "So, how’s work been?" he asked, as if he weren’t completely at Yelan’s mercy.

Yelan tilted her head. "Confidential, as always." She tugged the rope slightly, pulling Aether just a fraction closer. "But I appreciate the concern. You, on the other hand, have been all over Teyvat. What trouble have you been stirring up now?"

Aether chuckled. "Not trouble. Diplomacy."

Yelan's eyes locked onto Aether's as she wrapped the hydro leash around him, her tall frame looming over his lean build. Aether's gaze held hers, a subtle spark of amusement dancing in his eyes as he let her tie him up. "You know, you never visit anymore," she said, her voice low and teasing, "but I suppose I should’ve expected that. A man as sought after as you must be busy." Her words were laced with a flirtatious undertone, and Aether's smile hinted that he was enjoying the attention.

Mavuika's eyes narrowed, her gaze fixed intently on the pair. "Release him," she said, her voice dropping into a low, commanding tone.

Yelan leaned in, her face close to Aether's, and wrapped her arms around him in a tight hug. Aether's eyes met hers, a hint of a smile still playing on his lips as he hugged her back. Mavuika's expression darkened, her eyes flashing with a fierce possessiveness. "Yelan," she growled, her voice low and menacing.

Yelan just chuckled and released Aether, the hydro leash dissipating into mist. Aether stretched his arms, a relaxed smile on his face. Mavuika's gaze lingered on Yelan, a spark of warning still in her eyes. For a moment, she seemed to be holding back, her face twisted in a mock-angry scowl. Then, she laughed, the tension dissipating, and extended a hand toward Yelan. "Truce?" she said, her voice still husky with amusement.

Yelan took her hand, and they shook, their grins mirroring each other.

Paimon giggled, watching the exchange. "Yeah, it’s always funny watching Traveler get all tied up!"

Aether just shook his head, a wry smile on his face, as Yelan leaned against a nearby table. "I heard you’ve been cooking again, Traveler," she said, her eyes never leaving his. "That’s why I stopped by. You know I don’t do big social gatherings, but if you’re making dinner, I figured I’d claim my share before you disappear into another diplomatic mess."

Mavuika made a mental note to interrogate him later about his apparent love for being restrained.

Chapter Text

Aether barely had time to exhale before Mavuika spun back around and pressed in close— very close.

With a sudden, fluid motion, she seized him by the wrists and pinned them to the wall above his head. Then, with all the mischief of a goddess who knew exactly how much power she held, she leaned in, pressing her chest flush against his face. His muffled gasp vanished somewhere in the warm, teasing press of fabric and skin.

“All right, Tumaini,” she purred, voice low and velvety, “if you have nothing to hide… why don’t you tell me everything about those little field missions with Yelan?”

Aether made a garbled sound, somewhere between a protest and a plea, but Mavuika only smirked and pushed closer, her scent—a wild mix of volcanic spice and heat—completely overwhelming his senses.

“Well?” she prompted sweetly.

“Mmmff… s-some nights… she was cold so… we shared blankets—uh, tightly,” he mumbled into her chest, his words barely comprehensible. “We… uh, once fell asleep in a… ah—tent during a thunderstorm, and she... curled around me ‘cause she said I radiate warmth.”

Mavuika hummed, her smile growing. “How cosy.”

Aether’s thoughts were slipping rapidly. Her warmth, her scent, her overwhelming presence—every part of him was focusing on staying conscious, and not completely melting into a puddle of embarrassment and desire. “And, uh—she held my hand once when I was hit. Said I was ‘reckless but endearing.’ I think she… liked my face…”

“Oh?” Mavuika tilted her head slightly, her hair brushing against his cheek. “She liked your face, did she?”

“I don’t know what I’m saying anymore,” Aether admitted honestly, voice almost a whisper, muffled and dazed.

Mavuika chuckled softly, letting go of his wrists but keeping him pinned with her body. She cupped his face gently, lifting it just enough so their eyes could meet—his dazed and flushed, hers golden and glinting with victorious amusement.

“I love how flustered you get,” she murmured. “It’s adorable.”

Aether gave a strangled sound of agreement.

With a quiet, knowing smile, Mavuika leaned in and kissed his forehead. “Don’t worry, my heart. Whatever memories you’ve made with others… I’ll replace them all. One by one. You won’t forget them—” she pressed another kiss to his temple—“but you’ll remember me more.”

Aether, still pinned by affection and proximity, nodded helplessly.

“I plan to make sure your favourite stories,” she whispered near his ear, “are the ones with me. ”

And with that, Mavuika finally pulled back, leaving Aether breathless, dazed, and thoroughly dominated in every possible way.

He sighed softly as she turned toward the bed. “You’re terrifying,” he muttered.

She didn’t look back, but her voice was warm with mischief. “I’m yours. That’s even worse.”

Nestled together beneath the soft silks of the guest room bed, the warmth of Liyue’s night breeze wafting through the open window, Aether brushed a few glowing strands of hair away from Mavuika’s flushed face.  He leaned close, lips brushing her ear, voice low and smug. “If we weren’t in the Jade Chamber, I’d have had you begging me not to stop.”

Mavuika let out a sharp breath, her hand instinctively curling around his shirt. “You’d be the one begging, golden boy. You always talk big, but you melt the second I pin you to the wall.”

Aether grinned, unbothered. “Maybe I like melting for you.”

Mavuika narrowed her eyes. “Don’t say things like that when I’m trying to not throw you into the wall again.”

He tilted his head. “What if I want to be thrown?”

“Tumaini—” she growled, cheeks glowing with molten orange.

“I’d worship you first, of course,” he murmured, threading his fingers through hers. “Lay you out like an offering. Burn with you until the stars blink out.”

Mavuika exhaled slowly, trying not to combust. “You really don’t want me to sleep tonight, do you?”

“Just giving you a preview,” he whispered, nuzzling her cheek. “You started it.”

She smirked faintly. “Next time, I’m tying you up. See how well you whisper then.”

Aether’s soft laugh hummed in her chest as he pulled her closer, arms curling protectively around her. “Looking forward to it.”

And though sparks still danced between them, neither dared to escalate further. They both knew if it continued, the Jade Chamber’s walls wouldn’t contain them—and scandal was not on tomorrow’s agenda. Instead, they lay tangled together, limbs entwined, breath slow and shared. Every whisper, every teasing brush of fingertips beneath the covers, was a promise of what waited when they had time, space, and silence to themselves.

Eventually, sleep found them, holding each other like the world outside could wait.

Morning light filtered through the high cliffs and cloud-kissed pines as Aether stirred, already halfway dressed by the time the Jade Chamber’s halls began to warm with the scent of brewing tea. He slipped out quietly, leaving Mavuika peacefully dozing beneath the silken sheets, and made his way to the mountaintop glade where they would host lunch. The sky was clear—auspicious for a gathering, and perfect for grilling.

Xianyun was already there, perched elegantly on a stone, sleeves pinned up, hair adorned with her usual ornamented flair. Shenhe stood nearby, sharpening a kitchen blade with unnerving focus.

“Traveler,” Xianyun called warmly, “this one is most pleased that you arrived on time. She had begun to suspect that your companion might delay you.”

Aether chuckled, rolling up his sleeves. “Even if she tried, I’d still come running. Wouldn’t keep you waiting.”

“This one accepts your flattery,” she said, eyes crinkling with amusement. “But this one does wonder… how long does the flame of romance burn, between the Hero of Teyvat and the god of fire?”

Aether blinked, then laughed, grabbing vegetables from the woven basket and beginning to dice them. “You really open with that?”

“This one is nothing if not direct,” Xianyun said serenely, though a slight smile tugged at the corner of her lips.

“She’s serious,” Shenhe added, now gutting fish with practised precision. “God or not, what are your intentions? Are you planning to marry her? If not, you should not sleep in her bed.”

Aether nearly dropped the knife. “Shenhe!”

“It is improper,” Shenhe added, as if reading from a textbook.

“W-we’re not there yet,” Aether stammered, recovering his rhythm with the vegetables. “We love each other. A lot. But it’s only been a few months. And... well, we have time. More than most couples.”

Xianyun stirred the broth with elegant fingers. “This one has known gods and mortals both to be fickle. Your time may be long, but affection can wither even in eternity. This one is fond of you, little star. She does not wish to see you hurt.”

Aether glanced at her, softening. “I know. That’s why I’m being careful. She’s powerful, yes, but she’s... more than that. She’s warm, and strong, and she listens. She treats me like I matter.”

“Do you desire children?” Shenhe asked abruptly.

Aether stared, halfway through skewering a fish. “I—I don’t even know if we can. She’s a god. I’m... whatever I am.”

“That’s not a no,” Xianyun mused aloud, clearly filing it away for later.

“Also, why do you ask all this while I’m cooking?” Aether sighed, flipping the skewers with practised ease.

Xianyun lifted her chin, pride shimmering in her eyes. “Because this one knows you cannot escape while tending to the fish. And she must be sure. This one... has seen you give your heart freely before. She worries you may be broken one day.”

Aether smiled at her—gentle and knowing. “You’ve always looked out for me. And that’s why I trust you’ll like her, Xianyun. She’s not just powerful—she cares. She’d never break me. Not unless I asked nicely.”

Shenhe blinked. “What does that mean?”

“Nothing,” Aether said quickly, and got back to the fire.

Xianyun coughed daintily into her sleeve, though her eyes glittered like polished jade. “This one is glad you still have your wit, Traveler. It would seem love has not dulled your senses.”

“Not yet,” he said, skewers sizzling behind him. “Though you might burn this soup with all these questions.”

“This one never burns anything,” Xianyun declared proudly, tasting the broth with the air of a celestial connoisseur. “This one is far too skilled.”

And as the fragrant scent of grilled fish and mountain herbs filled the air, Aether smiled. These women—so ancient and strange, so family—cared more than their deadpan words showed. He stirred the pot gently, hoping Mavuika would feel just as welcome when she arrived.

Yanfei arrived with the morning breeze, red sleeves fluttering and her legal tomes tucked beneath one arm. Zhongli followed at a leisurely pace, ever the embodiment of poise, hands folded neatly behind his back. The moment they entered the clearing and caught the scent of grilled fish, they knew Aether was already hard at work.

“Good morning!” Yanfei called, setting her books aside and sniffing the air with appreciation. “Smells like you’re bribing us into talking.”

“This one confirms it,” Xianyun said serenely. “It is interrogation day.”

Shenhe didn’t even look up from slicing tofu. “We’ve already asked about Mavuika. Now we’re collecting names.”

Yanfei’s eyes gleamed with interest as she joined them near the cooking fire. “Oh, then I’m definitely in. Don’t worry, Traveler, as your semi-legal advisor, I’ll only violate your privacy a little bit.”

Aether groaned, flipping a skewer. “I’m not on trial, you know.”

“You’re in love with a literal god,” Yanfei replied. “We’re all invested.”

Zhongli let out a low hum of amusement and took a seat nearby. “Considering the power Mavuika commands, one might view this as a security briefing, rather than a trial.”

Yanfei snapped her fingers. “See? He gets it.”

Shenhe tilted her head. “You have been close with many women in Liyue. Does Mavuika know?”

Aether paused, wiping his hands on a cloth. “She knows about Ganyu, Keqing, and Yanfei.”

“I’m honoured,” Yanfei said, bowing dramatically.

“I told her about Yelan last night,” Aether continued, choosing his words carefully.

Xianyun raised a brow. “Only last night?”

“It came up... suddenly,” he muttered, clearing his throat.

“And the others?” Shenhe asked, ever relentless.

Aether hesitated. “I haven’t told her about Hu Tao or Beidou yet.”

Zhongli’s golden eyes flickered with mild surprise. “Considering your history with Captain Beidou, that is a notable omission.”

Yanfei smirked, elbowing Xianyun. “Oho. Did he just admit there was a history?”

“Traveler and Captain Beidou spent quite a lot of time at sea together,” Xianyun added with exaggerated innocence. “This one recalls the rumours.”

“They were spicy,” Yanfei agreed, turning toward Shenhe and whispering, “Do we tell Mavuika together, or should we take turns?”

Shenhe, very seriously, responded, “We should coordinate. A sudden approach might provoke her.”

Zhongli gave a soft sigh. “I shall abstain from meddling. But I do wonder, Traveler... do you intend to tell Mavuika yourself?”

“I was going to,” Aether said, completely unaware of the conspiratorial glances being exchanged. “Just... at the right time.”

Xianyun hummed. “If you wait too long, someone else may beat you to it.”

Aether nodded without catching the subtext. “Yeah, I’ll handle it soon.”

Behind him, Yanfei mimed a dramatic zip of the lips to the others, as if to say I’m definitely not keeping this secret. Shenhe simply nodded once, like a soldier acknowledging a new mission.

Lunch was almost ready, but the true spice of the gathering had only just begun to simmer.

Ganyu arrived with a polite bow and a soft smile, her qilin horns catching the morning light. Keqing followed close behind, already checking a small list of tasks she had postponed just to be here. Both were impeccably dressed, despite the casual invitation, which meant they were likely still treating this gathering as semi-official—at least until the smell of Aether’s cooking reached them.

“Apologies for the delay,” Keqing said, tucking her scroll away. “There was a last-minute document I had to review.”

“It’s all right,” Aether said warmly, offering her a skewer of grilled meat and nodding to Ganyu. “You made it in time for the fun part.”

“Fun?” Ganyu asked, glancing around nervously. “What kind of fun?”

“Emotional cross-examination,” Yanfei said helpfully, taking another bite of sweet tofu. “We’re investigating Traveler’s romantic history. Strictly for friendship and national safety purposes.”

“Traveler has a romantic history?” Keqing asked, blinking. “Besides me?”

“A surprising amount, actually,” Yanfei said, eyes twinkling. “And apparently not all of it is known to said Pyro Archon.”

Keqing raised an eyebrow. “And... we’re gossiping about this?”

“We’re ensuring transparency ,” Yanfei corrected.

“Traveler has not yet told Mavuika about Captain Beidou,” Shenhe stated plainly.

Ganyu made a tiny squeak and nearly dropped the cup of tea she was handed. “C-Captain Beidou?! But... she—she used to call Aether her lucky charm …”

Keqing, expression unreadable, glanced at Aether. “So that rumour was true.”

“It wasn’t like that ,” Aether said quickly, holding up his hands. “We were close, yes, but that doesn’t mean—”

“Did you cuddle?” Yanfei asked, leaning forward like a predator.

Aether groaned. “Not this again.”

“Oh, we’re past cuddling,” Xianyun intoned sagely, swirling her tea. “This one senses a storm is brewing. And not just in Mavuika’s direction.”

Keqing crossed her arms, joining the circle of conspirators. “Should we tell Mavuika ourselves, then? If he’s going to stall?”

Ganyu hesitated, then glanced around, lowering her voice. “Would that… would that upset her? She seems very protective of Traveler.”

“That’s what makes it interesting,” Yanfei whispered.

Shenhe, as calm as ever, simply said, “We will be tactful. But the story must be told.”

Xianyun added, “This one agrees. Better to control the timing than let it explode.”

Still unaware of the growing plot behind him, Aether turned a fish over the flame. “What are you all whispering about?”

“Nothing!” came the chorus.

Aether narrowed his eyes. “Why do I get the feeling this lunch is going to be very educational for Mavuika?”

“Oh, it will be,” Yanfei said sweetly. “Just wait till dessert.”

Chapter Text

As the golden afternoon light spilled across the Jade Chamber, lunch was finally served. Platters of grilled fish, stir-fried lotus roots, butter crab, and freshly steamed rice were laid out with the meticulous care of someone who knew their guests well — which Aether did. The atmosphere was warm, the air filled with the rich aroma of Liyuen spices, and laughter drifted between friends as they took their seats around the long table.

Ningguang and Mavuika arrived last, regal and composed. Ningguang moved with her signature elegance, while Mavuika — dressed in a striking Liyuen red and gold ensemble — took her seat beside Aether. Her smile was calm, her tone polite as she complimented the food. Yet Aether caught the faint glow in her hair, and the way her eyes subtly tracked every movement around the table. She was observant. Which meant she knew something was up.

It began innocently.

"So," Yanfei said, stirring her tea with theatrical nonchalance, "anyone heard from Captain Beidou lately?"

Shenhe, without looking up, added, “She is currently docked off Guyun Stone Forest. Likely resupplying after her latest voyage.”

“I miss her,” Keqing said, sighing. “Always full of wild stories. And she always had Aether with her when sailing, didn’t she?”

Aether blinked. “Wait. What?”

“Oh yes,” Ganyu chimed in gently, “The trip to Inazuma. There were rumours that Captain Beidou refused to let Aether sleep anywhere but her cabin during that storm season.”

“Something about him being a lucky charm ,” Yanfei said, raising an eyebrow.

“It is true.” Paimon added, mouth full of crab.

Aether buried his face in his hands. “You promised you wouldn’t bring that up again, Paimon.”

“Hehe” she said cheerfully. “Besides, you were so cosy and comfortable wrapped up in that giant coat Beidou gave you. It had her perfume on it! You smelled like her all day!”

The entire table choked on various drinks.

“I DID NOT—!”

“Oh, and remember the time she got him a matching violet earring and said, ‘Now we’re pirate twins ’? Traveler wore it for a week!”

Shenhe blinked. “This explains the earring I found in his pocket once.”

Mavuika calmly sipped her tea, her expression unreadable. The ends of her hair shimmered faintly with orange-gold light. She turned to Aether and asked sweetly, “Is there anything more you’d like to tell me, Tumaini?”

Aether opened his mouth. Closed it. Turned red. “Uhhh…”

Ningguang observed everything with a sly smile, elegantly leaning back. “This is better than any opera script I’ve reviewed this year.”

Keqing grinned. “There was also that time Beidou made him steer the ship during a typhoon. She stood behind him the whole time, hands on his hips, guiding his stance—”

“She said I needed core strength!” Aether yelped.

“Did you get any?” Ganyu asked, completely innocent.

“Oh, he got something,” Yanfei muttered under her breath.

“Not helping,” Aether groaned.

Mavuika tilted her head, smiling like a queen watching a jester perform. “You certainly have a colourful past, my flame.”

Aether stared at her, trying to decode if she was amused or calculating vengeance. “You’re… taking this well?”

“Oh, I’m taking notes ,” she said calmly. “Lots of notes.”

Paimon floated in with a grin. “Should I tell her about the time you and Beidou fell asleep in the crow’s nest and got sunburned on just one side of your faces?”

“NO—!”

“Oh yes,” Paimon continued. “They shared aloe gel. Very romantically.”

The table erupted again.

Aether groaned, Mavuika chuckled, and the rest of the lunch was a mixture of scandal, banter, and one very flustered Traveler trying to explain that pirate cabins were not as steamy as everyone kept implying.

Probably.

The lunch had long descended from a polite gathering into a gleeful spiral of wine-fueled revelations and mounting embarrassment for one golden haired Traveler. The grilled fish was half-eaten, the wine jugs half-empty, and the glint in everyone’s eyes dangerously full.

Aether, already cherry-red from the Beidou exposé, could barely speak as his dear friends took turns recalling fond memories of their time with him — with increasing romantic tension.

Xianyun, tipsy from her third cup, tilted her head with a nostalgic smile. “This one remembers a moment... after a festival in Liyue. Traveler was tired and had fallen asleep beside the Qingxin Flower patch near the cliffs. This one found him curled up — and cold. So... this one asked Shenhe to warm him up.”

Shenhe blinked. “Yes. I was there. We made a small fire and kept warm. He’s very soft.”

The table paused.

Ganyu, cheeks flushed a gentle pink, looked down at her plate. “He… once carried me halfway up Mt. Aocang when my legs gave out. I was embarrassed, but he insisted. He said I was lighter than the wind. I fell asleep in his arms… He didn't let go until morning.”

“Oh Archons,” Aether whispered, sinking lower into his seat.

Keqing rested her chin on her hand, smirking. “Remember when we got locked in the archives during a storm? We had to stay the night. He gave me his coat. We… talked all night. And then we didn’t sleep. At all.”

Yanfei chimed in, swirling her drink. “He once helped me organise a mountain of contracts late into the night. We were tired. Stressed. So we… stress-relieved. On the paperwork pile.”

“My paperwork?!” Ningguang raised a brow, but her tone was amused.

“Don’t act so surprised,” Yanfei winked.

All eyes turned to Ningguang. She leaned back elegantly and, in that timeless Liyuen drawl, purred: “Traveler and I once played a high-stakes game of chess during the Lantern Rite. The prize? Secrets. He lost. So he had to spend the night… revealing them. Very slowly.”

Aether choked on his tea. “Ningguang!”

Mavuika looked at Ningguang slowly. “You’ve hosted us for two full days and this never came up?”

Ningguang smiled like a cat with cream. “You never asked.”

Even Zhongli, usually the pillar of composure, let out a deep chuckle. “Ah, to be young again.”

Aether looked around in horror. “Everyone?!”

Paimon, cheeks stuffed with rice, said through a snort, “I knew it. I knew all of it!”

Around the table, each of the women now blushed in varying shades, embarrassed and aroused by their own confessions. The wine had made them honest — too honest.

Mavuika, silent for some time, sipped her wine. Her expression was unreadable.

Aether leaned closer. “Mav…? Are you… okay?”

Her golden eyes met his, and she smiled — but it was the kind of smile that sent a chill down the Traveler's spine. “Oh, I’m fascinated, Tumaini. Absolutely fascinated. This has been... educational.”

Aether gulped. He couldn’t tell if she was delighted or about to make him repent .

And worst of all? She was taking notes.

The table had quieted slightly—either from embarrassment, overindulgence, or sheer exhaustion from the scandalous revelations.

Aether, still recovering from the collective attack on his dignity, cleared his throat and pulled a scroll from his satchel. “Well… before anyone else remembers something mortifying, I think we should finalise what we actually gathered here for.”

Xianyun perked up, all elegance and curiosity. “This one is ready.”

He laid the contract down gently, the golden wax seal of Natlan still intact. “The trade routes between Natlan and Liyue will now be formally protected by both nations. Natlan’s volcanic glass will be traded for Liyue’s jade and silks. And most importantly…” he looked at Mavuika, “cultural festivals will now be open to both nations without visa restrictions.”

Xianyun nodded. “A balanced contract. This one approves.”

Mavuika added her signature with a flourish of Pyro energy. Ningguang followed with her calligrapher’s precision. The scroll shimmered with a faint glow — sealed with power and promise.

Aether smiled. “And that’s done.”

With the formalities over, the rest of the afternoon melted into easy laughter. Zhongli shared an old war story about a dragon getting hiccups. Ganyu shyly asked Mavuika for fitness tips. Shenhe calmly admitted she didn’t understand flirting. Hu Tao wasn’t there, but her spirit seemed summoned every time someone mentioned pranks .

Eventually, Ganyu glanced up at the sky, then toward Mavuika with a playful glint. “There’s a spot higher up this mountain… very scenic. Great for camping.”

“Oh yes,” Keqing chimed in, deliberately not looking at Aether. “The sunset looks very good from there.”

Yanfei sipped her wine. “And the stars. Super romantic.”

“Tranquil. Isolated,” Shenhe added, entirely serious.

Even Ningguang, ever composed, chuckled. “If you'd like, I can take Paimon back to the Jade Chamber. She could use a nap.”

“Wha—Hey! I’m not a baby!” Paimon protested, yawning immediately after.

But Mavuika was already standing, wineglass in hand, eyes locked onto Aether like a predator with purpose. “You heard the ladies, Tumaini. We should… appreciate the view.”

Aether blinked. “I—uh…”

Before he could protest, she grabbed his wrist and began marching uphill. The others watched them go in amused silence.

The slope gave way to a ledge—wide, sunlit, and overlooking all of Liyue’s emerald valleys. Clouds floated lazily beneath them. But Aether didn’t get to enjoy the view right away. Mavuika had already grabbed him by the collar, lifting him slightly off the ground and pinning him gently—yet with unmistakable power—against a smooth stone outcrop.

She tilted her head, half-shadowed by the setting sun. “So. That wasn’t the full list at lunch, was it?”

Aether blinked. “Uhh…”

“You’ve spent nights with more of them, haven’t you?”

“Well—yes. But—”

“Start talking.”

He took a slow breath. “Alright. I once accidentally fell asleep beside Shenhe while watching the stars. She said it was fine. I woke up with frost on my hair, and she was using my shoulder like a pillow.”

Mavuika squinted. “Next.”

“There was a time I stayed at Ganyu’s office overnight during a Lantern Rite. I passed out from overwork. She passed out next to me from worry .”

Mavuika raised an eyebrow. “Mmhm.”

“I shared a tent with Keqing during a thunderstorm. She was scared of lightning. She pretended not to be, but she held my arm all night.”

Mavuika snorted. “That tracks.”

“But!” Aether added quickly, “None of it ever meant as much as this. You. Us. They were quiet moments, fleeting things. You’re carved into my soul, Mav. They were stories. You’re everything.”

She narrowed her eyes in mock suspicion. “If I toss you off this ledge for smooth-talking, will your wind glider catch in time?”

“Technically yes,” Aether said cautiously, “but I’d have to climb all the way back up and—”

She finally laughed, releasing him. He adjusted his collar with exaggerated dignity as she plopped down on the grass beside him. The two sat in silence for a moment, the orange-gold light bathing them as the sun drifted westward.

The wind tugged at her hair. “You know,” Mavuika murmured, “I never asked you about Mondstadt.”

Aether froze.

Her gaze slowly turned toward him.

“Surely you didn’t skip a whole nation without a scandal or two?”

Aether chuckled nervously, eyes darting like he was calculating escape routes. “Well… define scandal …”

Mavuika’s eyes gleamed. “Start talking, Tumaini.”

Aether sighed, defeated, leaning back into the grass with a groan. “Oh boy…”

Aether gently raised both hands in surrender, the sun casting a warm glow on his golden hair as he leaned just slightly away from Mavuika’s amused stare. “We have a lifetime together, Mav. Why rush all the storytelling into one afternoon?” he said, smiling in that calm, maddeningly sincere way of his.

Mavuika blinked, a little caught off guard by the tenderness in his tone. Her playful smirk faltered just a little, her eyes softening.

A lifetime…

That did sound nice.

But then—a dangerous thought slipped into her mind like a flicker of embers on the wind. Aether needed a lifetime to tell his stories? How many women are we talking about, exactly?

Her expression shifted into faux suspicion. “Wait—do you mean you have that many stories to tell?”

“Uhh…” Aether’s confident grin faded a notch.

“Just how many girlfriends have you had?” she asked, voice dangerously sweet.

“I wouldn’t say ‘girlfriends’ exactly. More like… close friends with… feelings. Sometimes. Maybe. Occasionally.”

Mavuika narrowed her eyes.

Then bam —she elbowed him in the side.

Aether yelped , immediately clutching his ribs. “Ow! Mav! That was a playful elbow?!”

She chuckled, her tone mock-innocent. “That was playful.”

“You cracked a rib with affection!”

He leaned into her with an exaggerated limp, making her laugh harder.

“You should consider wearing armor to our dates,” she teased, eyes glowing just a little with Pyro mirth.

“Noted,” Aether grumbled, still rubbing his side. “Protective gear: check. Emotional damage control: in progress.”

They both laughed, the tension breaking like a cresting wave, replaced with warmth as they settled beside each other again. “You know,” Mavuika said after a pause, her voice quiet, “I don’t have any past romantic tales to tell. Not really.”

Aether glanced over, brows raised. “Good. Then we’ll just make a lifetime’s worth together.”

She looked at him—truly looked—and her heart fluttered.

She wouldn’t say it aloud.

But she really liked the sound of that.

Aether blinked in confusion as Mavuika stared at him with that sly, calculating look—the one that usually meant trouble for someone . And unfortunately, that someone was usually him.

“…What now?” he asked cautiously.

“You’ve had girlfriends in every nation,” she said slowly. “But with how thirsty you are, I wouldn’t be surprised if you’ve had a boyfriend or two in the mix.”

Aether immediately flushed, waving his hands in frantic denial. “What?! No—I’m straight!”

Mavuika raised a fiery brow. “You sure? You flirt with anything that breathes. And you did spend a lot of time with Venti.”

Aether paused.

His soul visibly left his body for half a second.

“I—! That doesn’t count!” he sputtered. “I thought he was a girl the first time we met! He had a high voice and wore a skirt!”

Mavuika’s eyes narrowed in amusement. “So you did flirt with him.”

“I did not flirt with him—!”

THWACK.

Another elbow. Aether doubled over with a wheeze.

“Okay okay okay—! I might’ve complimented his singing voice and called him pretty once, but I was new to Mondstadt and confused!”

Mavuika grinned darkly, stretching her arms behind her head. “I see. So your type is twinky with wind powers.”

Aether glared at her from where he was hunched. “I swear I’m straight. I just have an unfortunate weakness for powerful people in skirts!”

“Hmm…” she mused aloud. “Good thing I’m stronger than Venti. And hotter. And taller.”

Aether let out a defeated groan. “And scarier.”

“Exactly,” she said sweetly, her hand slipping into his hair and ruffling it affectionately. “Don’t worry. You’re mine. But I am going to tease you about the Venti incident for the rest of your life.”

Aether slumped into her side with a resigned sigh. “Of course you are.”

And despite himself, he couldn’t help but smile.

Chapter Text

Aether had been peacefully watching the sun melt into the horizon, bathed in the gentle orange hue of Liyue’s sky, his head tilted slightly, eyes soft with thought. Mavuika, still lounging beside him, cast him a sidelong glance.

“So,” she began casually, her voice honeyed but laced with mischief. “That means you’ve flirted with two Archons now… Venti and me.”

“Mmhmm,” Aether hummed absently, not really listening.

“Is there another Archon you like?” she asked, keeping her tone light.

Aether nodded slightly, eyes still fixed on the horizon. “Yeah… Ei.”

Mavuika’s eyes narrowed.

“She’s cute, strong, sexy… kinda scary in a good way,” he continued, his voice dreamy with nostalgia. “I went on a few dates with her. She seemed to enjoy them. I know I did.”

There was a pause. Then—

WHAM!

Aether’s whole body lurched as Mavuika elbowed him in the ribs like a blazing freight train. He practically folded in half, coughing. “O-ow! What was that for—oh no.”

He turned to face her, realisation dawning as her expression hovered somewhere between amused, betrayed, and dangerously smug.

“You dated Ei?” she asked, voice deceptively calm.

“I—I didn’t mean to say that out loud!” Aether wheezed, clutching his side.

“But you did,” she smiled, the warmth of her Pyro aura rising just enough to make the air shimmer. “Cute. Strong. Sexy .”

“I wasn’t wrong!” he yelped defensively.

Another elbow. This one had real commitment.

“Okay! Okay!” he winced. “But it was before I met you!”

Mavuika crossed her arms, flames flickering subtly across her shoulders. “Do I need to remind you that I’m also cute, strong and sexy?”

Aether, in self-preservation mode, sat upright and raised both hands in surrender. “You’re cuter. Stronger. So much sexier. Deadliest of them all. ”

Mavuika smirked, satisfied. “Good.”

Then, after a moment, she muttered under her breath, “...Dates with Ei, huh…”

Aether leaned his head against her shoulder, sighing. “This is why I don’t talk with my brain turned off.”

“You might want to never do that again,” she replied sweetly.

Aether could only groan, silently praying the mountain didn’t have ears. Or worse—Ei didn’t suddenly teleport in.

Aether stretched his arms above his head, his expression a picture of feigned innocence. “We should head to Inazuma next,” he said lightly. “I want you to meet Ei.”

Mavuika narrowed her eyes, immediately suspicious. “Meet her, huh? Or go on a date with both of us?”

He glanced at her with that all-too-familiar boyish smirk. “Why not both?”

Before she could elbow him again, he added, “Oh—and we should bring Miko too.”

That stopped Mavuika in her tracks. “Miko?”

“Yeah,” Aether replied, settling into a relaxed lean against the rock. “She’s incredible. She can transform into this fluffy, warm fox. Sometimes, she just curls up in my lap and lets me rub her belly. She purrs.”

Mavuika blinked. “She purrs?”

“Mmhm,” he said dreamily. “She stretches out, all soft fur and tail, and when I scratch just behind her ears she lets out this little sound—like a pleased sigh. I could spend hours like that.”

Mavuika felt her eye twitch.

“And then sometimes,” Aether continued, voice dropping lower, deliberately, “just when I’ve gotten too comfortable… she shifts back. In that outfit. Still sprawled in my lap, looking at me like I’m the one who’s flustered.”

Mavuika’s hand curled into a fist.

“She smirks too, like she knows what she’s doing. And her voice? All that fox-silk smoothness. The last time she shifted back mid-belly rub, I nearly—"

THUMP.

Mavuika’s punch landed squarely on his shoulder, and Aether winced, laughing through it.

“Okay, okay,” he wheezed. “Ow. You hit harder when you’re jealous.”

“I’m not jealous,” Mavuika grumbled, eyes sharp and smoldering. “I’m just protecting you from yourself.”

Aether grinned at her, clearly pleased. “So… it worked?”

She glared. “You are so lucky I like you.”

But still, her mind wandered. Aether had mentioned Ei before—admittedly with a bit too much affection—but this was the first time he had said so much about Miko. His tone when describing her, the way his eyes gleamed, the way he emphasized her sensual transformations… Mavuika recognised the teasing, but she also saw the truth beneath it.

He had a different kind of chemistry with Miko.

And apparently Ei too.

“…So what exactly is your Inazuma harem situation?” she asked flatly, arms crossed.

Aether just shrugged, far too calm for her liking. “You’ll see.”

She stared at him for a long moment, then looked back toward the horizon.

Mavuika didn’t feel truly threatened. She could feel how much he adored her in the way he looked at her, in the way his hand kept brushing hers without thinking. But it was clear now—Aether’s heart was as vast and complex as the world he travelled. He had shared warmth and stories with many… and Inazuma would be no exception.

She would see it firsthand.

And if any of them flirted too much?

Well… her elbow was always ready.

Mavuika sat up, arms crossed, still stewing in the image of Inazuma’s shrine maiden shapeshifting mid-belly rub. Her golden eyes narrowed at the thought—half intrigued, half vengeful.

Then she felt a weight press into her lap.

Aether had sprawled across her thighs, curling up like a lazy animal. His arms tucked under his chest, one leg bent awkwardly, and he even gave a half-hearted swat with his hand like a tail flick. “I’m a fox now,” he mumbled, snuggling deeper. “Pet me.”

Mavuika stared at him, deadpan. “You’re unbelievable.”

He lifted his face just enough to pout at her. “Fox.”

With a sigh, she gave in and began to run her fingers through his hair, gently scratching behind his ears the way she imagined Miko might like it. Aether made a soft hum, then wriggled even deeper into her lap.

“Unreal,” she muttered, watching how utterly content he looked. His warmth, the way he sighed when her fingers found the right spot… he really was acting like a pampered fox. And it was… kind of cute.

She found herself smiling despite her earlier jealousy.

Mavuika’s thoughts wandered again—to Miko. If she really could transform into a fox, and if her fur was half as soft as Aether described, then… yes, petting her might actually be fun. Hypothetically.

She wouldn’t say it out loud, but now she understood. Aether’s dreamy tone, the vividness of his descriptions—it wasn’t just to rile her up. He meant it. Petting a magical, purring fox-girl? Yeah. That did sound pretty relaxing.

Still, she tugged gently on Aether’s ear. “You’re not fooling anyone, Tumaini. You’re still a horny little human pretending to be a fox.”

“Fox,” Aether mumbled stubbornly, refusing to move.

Mavuika rolled her eyes but resumed petting him anyway. For now, she would allow it.

But Inazuma couldn’t come soon enough. She had to meet these vixens for herself.

The stars faded gently into the early blush of morning as Aether and Mavuika stirred from their makeshift campsite. The fire had long since died out, leaving only the warm afterglow of shared laughter, teasing whispers, and limbs tangled under the stars.

Aether was the first to sit up, brushing pine needles from his hair as he stretched with a quiet groan. “We should visit the Alcor today,” he said, his voice still husky with sleep. “I want you to meet Captain Beidou.”

Mavuika raised an eyebrow, but said nothing—just gave him a slow, teasing smile that made his heart stutter. “Alright,” she replied, pulling herself up beside him. “Lead the way, fox.”

They descended the mountain trail at a leisurely pace, Aether pointing out little landmarks and sharing childhood-like memories of his past visits to Liyue. Mavuika mostly listened, occasionally bumping her shoulder into his or teasing him about how he clearly remembered more women than landscapes.

By the time they reached the lower city, the morning sun was spilling over the rooftops. The air was rich with the scent of sizzling skewers and sweet almond tofu from the stalls opening up along the harbour road.

“Breakfast?” Aether offered.

They tucked into a quiet vendor’s corner: grilled tofu with chilli sauce for Mavuika and a bowl of Liyue-style porridge for Aether. The shopkeeper, slightly wide-eyed at seeing the Pyro Archon casually chewing on street food, made no comment but offered them both extra tea.

Mavuika ate happily, sharp eyes scanning the busy dock ahead. The Alcor’s mast was already visible above the city skyline, its crimson sails furled neatly against the rising sun.

After breakfast, with the harbor coming to life around them, the pair strolled toward the dock—Aether’s steps light, and Mavuika’s presence commanding. Seagulls called above, and sailors bustled to and fro, their chatter and laughter peppering the air.

It was time to meet the Captain.

The moment Beidou spotted Aether stepping onto the dock, the calm harbour shattered into roaring chaos.

“Well, well, look who’s back!” she bellowed with a grin stretching from ear to ear. Before Aether could wave or speak, she was already stomping down the gangplank in full stride.

“Captain—wait—!” he barely managed before Beidou grabbed him by the waist like a prize catch and hoisted him over her shoulder with practised ease.

The crew exploded in cheers and whistles. Someone shouted, “It’s tradition!” Another added, “He’s not staying the night unless he’s carried in!”

Mavuika blinked.

As Beidou turned to carry Aether back up the gangplank like a trophy, she tossed a casual nod in Mavuika’s direction. “Welcome aboard, stranger. Make yourself at home. Feel free to chat with the crew while I catch up with this one.”

Mavuika, left standing on the dock, raised a single brow.

Beidou had no idea who she was. No one on this ship did.

Aether’s muffled protests were lost in the wave of crew jubilation. “Beidou—wait—I didn’t come here alone—this is Mav—!”

His voice was drowned out entirely as the sailors spotted Mavuika stepping onboard.

There was a sudden hush, then louder cheers, not because they recognised her, but because any beautiful woman following Aether onto the Alcor was assumed to be another notch in his scandalous legacy.

“She’s with him ! She’s gotta be interesting!”
“She looks strong. Think she can outdrink the Captain?!”
“Oi! Better secure the rum!”

Mavuika’s eyes narrowed slightly. Interesting.

She could incinerate this entire ship if she wanted. But the wood smelled freshly tarred, and honestly, the crew’s enthusiasm was contagious. The last thing she wanted was to burn their home for simply loving Aether as much as she did.

So she smiled—dangerously sweet—and stepped aboard.

“I’ll play along,” she muttered under her breath, eyes glinting like twin embers. “But if she dares kiss him before I do today, this deck might get a little... warmer.”

The moment Beidou stepped away from view , the crew swarmed Mavuika like moths to a flame—appropriately enough.

“Now that’s a woman!” one sailor whispered, slack-jawed.

“Who’s your tailor?” another asked, trying and failing to look into her eyes instead of, well, everywhere else .

“So, uh, are you the Traveler’s friend, cousin, or something better?” one bold deckhand ventured, wagging his eyebrows.

“I’m Mavuika,” she replied coolly, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. “The Pyro Archon.”

There was a beat of silence—then uproarious laughter.

“Sure, and I’m Morax in disguise!”
“No way the actual Pyro Archon is that hot—”

“Prove it then!” someone yelled.

That’s when the terms were set. A “friendly” sparring match.

“If we win, you join us for dinner... and dessert,” one grinned wolfishly. Another added, “And breakfast!”

“Lap dance for the winner!”
“Back rubs!”
“Front rubs!”

The entire deck devolved into salivating chaos, with increasingly scandalous suggestions being hurled like cannonballs.

“And if I win?” Mavuika asked, arching a brow.

The crew exchanged glances.

“Our prized rum,” said one. “A whole barrel. Vintage stuff.”

“Deal,” Mavuika said with a smile too sweet to be safe.

They tossed her a wooden training sword, which she caught and promptly dropped with disdain. “Bare hands,” she said, rolling her shoulders.

A burly sailor stepped forward—clearly the toughest among them. He cracked his knuckles and grinned. “No hard feelings, miss.”

Mavuika didn’t answer.

He lunged.

She barely moved.

With a flick of her foot—meant to be a nudge, but maybe fueled by just a bit too much enthusiasm—she kicked him square in the chest.

He went airborne. There was a splash a full five seconds later.

The deck was dead silent.

Then someone whispered, “Oh gods, she is the Pyro Archon.”

The entire crew dropped to their knees, groveling.

“Forgive us, Your Holiness!”
“Take the rum, take the ship—just don’t turn us into charcoal!”
“Long live Lady Mavuika!”

Someone shoved the prized barrel toward her so fast it almost rolled off the deck.

Mavuika smiled, arms crossed.

“I accept your surrender.”

Chapter Text

Beidou didn’t let go of Aether until her cabin door slammed shut behind them. He barely had time to open his mouth before she spun him around and pressed him down onto the edge of her captain’s table.

“Shh,” she breathed, a grin playing on her lips. “Let me have my moment.”

Aether raised a hand in protest, but she was already tugging at the collar of his shirt—ripping it cleanly down the middle with a flourish only Beidou could make look casual.

“Still lean... still golden,” she murmured, trailing a calloused hand across his chest. “You get prettier every time I see you, Traveler. It’s unfair.”

He flushed. “Beidou—”

“You’re lucky I’ve got restraint today,” she teased, leaning in close, her breath ghosting across his jaw. “Because it’s been months at sea, and if I didn’t know better, I’d say you showed up just to get ravished.”

He couldn’t get a word in—not with her so close, eyes sharp and mischievous. She pulled her gloves off, then moved to loosen her tunic.

Aether gently grabbed her wrists. “Beidou... I have a girlfriend.”

That stopped her. The teasing gleam in her eyes flickered. Her hands stilled. “Oh?” she asked, voice lower. She stepped back half a pace, enough to really look at him. “For real?”

Aether nodded. “Yeah. Her name’s Mavuika.”

Beidou’s brows shot up. “Wait. The Mavuika?”

He laughed softly. “Yeah. The Pyro Archon herself.”

There was a long pause. Beidou let out a low whistle and dropped into her chair, running a hand through her thick hair. “Damn. I knew you had a thing for danger, but you really went for the goddess of fire?”

Aether gave a half-smile. “She’s strong, yeah. But she’s also sweet. And warm. And when she looks at me like I’m her whole world... nothing else compares.”

Beidou was quiet for a beat. Then, with a crooked smile, she asked, “So I’m not your lucky charm anymore?”

“You’ll always be my lucky charm,” Aether replied, leaning forward. “But now, I make her lucky. Sometimes... multiple times a night.”

Beidou barked out a laugh, but it wasn’t as loud as usual. “Still cheeky. That tongue of yours is gonna get you into trouble one day.”

She stood and ruffled his hair affectionately. “You know, I used to think maybe... you and I would make port somewhere quiet. Share a bottle, grow old, get matching scars.”

Aether’s expression softened. “I thought about it too, sometimes.”

“But not anymore,” she said quietly.

He didn’t answer—because he didn’t need to.

Beidou smiled, though there was a bittersweet edge to it now. “She’s lucky, then. That fire goddess of yours.”

Just outside the door, Mavuika’s golden eyes narrowed slightly as she leaned closer to the wood, listening—heat rising in her cheeks, heart pounding in her chest.

She’d heard every word.

And her expression? Hard to say.

Warm.

And maybe... just a little possessive.

Aether could feel her presence like a flicker of heat at his back—an unmistakable ripple in the air that told him Mavuika was close. Too close.

He nodded to Beidou. “She’s here.”

Then, raising his voice a little, he called, “You can come in, Mavuika.”

The door creaked open.

Mavuika stepped into the cabin with all the grace of a volcano about to erupt. Her gaze swept the room in one sharp glance: Aether shirtless and red-faced, his shredded garment strewn on the floor like a post-battle relic; Beidou lounging with smug ease in her sports bra, muscles on full display, sitting like she owned the table—and maybe Aether, too.

The Pyro Archon didn’t say a word.

But her clenched fists and simmering eyes said plenty.

Aether quickly sat up straighter, hands up like he was defusing a very literal bomb. “Mav, this isn’t what it looks like.”

She arched a brow. “Oh? Because it looks like I just walked in on an old flame trying to reignite something.”

Beidou grinned lazily. “Can you blame me? Look at him—still got that dumb little hero blush. Hard not to want to tease.”

Mavuika crossed her arms. “Teasing usually doesn’t involve ripping someone’s shirt off. Or sitting like you’re about to pounce.”

Beidou gave a dramatic shrug. “Well, I am a pirate. Subtlety’s not really our strong suit.”

Aether cleared his throat. “Right. Uh—Beidou, this is Mavuika. Pyro Archon of Natlan, and... my girlfriend.”

Beidou’s eyes sparkled with mischief. “So you’re the lucky fire goddess, huh? Gotta say, he didn’t tell me you were this... explosive.”

Mavuika tilted her head with a sweet smile. “And you must be the infamous Captain Beidou. I see the rumours about you  weren’t exaggerated.”

The tension thickened—for a beat. Then, somehow, it snapped—not with violence, but with a shared understanding. They’d both been important to him in different ways. And now, they both knew where Aether’s heart truly lay.

Still, neither woman backed down completely.

“You know,” Mavuika said smoothly, brushing imaginary dust from her sleeve, “when I saw you shirtless and looming over my boyfriend, I considered turning this whole ship into a bonfire.”

Beidou leaned forward with a grin. “And when I saw how you looked at him just now, I considered handing over the wheel.”

Aether blinked. “Wait, what does that even—?”

Both women ignored him.

Their words were sharp, but there was a distinct absence of venom. This wasn’t war. This was... territory marking. Friendly fire. Pyro meets thunderstorm on open waters.

And Aether?

He just sighed and glanced between them. “Great. You two are going to be best friends, aren’t you?”

They both replied at once.

“Absolutely not.”
“Don’t count on it.”

But as Mavuika moved closer and casually draped an arm around Aether’s bare shoulders, Beidou raised a brow—and smirked.

Aether, feeling the tension ease ever so slightly, grew emboldened now that Mavuika was by his side. Perhaps a bit too emboldened.

He reached out casually, brushing his fingers along Beidou’s bicep with a grin. “Still rock solid, Captain. You haven’t skipped a single arm day, huh?”

Beidou raised a brow and flexed with a smirk. “You know I keep them sharp. You like what you feel?”

From the corner of his eye, Aether could see Mavuika’s smile twitch.

He winked at Beidou. That was her cue.

Beidou, always one to lean into a good game, grabbed his hand and pulled it to her stomach—firm and defined like a warrior’s armor. “Feel that?” she said, voice smooth as rum. “Abs you could sail across. But you know what’s even more fun?” She slid his hand slightly upward, towards her boobs above.

That was when Mavuika’s patience incinerated.

SMACK!

Her palm landed on Aether’s head with a solid whack, not enough to hurt—just enough to remind him who he belonged to.

“Easy there, Tumaini,” she muttered through gritted teeth. “Admire too much and I’ll have to burn the evidence.”

Beidou laughed, not the least bit offended. “Possessive, are we?”

“Protective,” Mavuika shot back. “And unlike some, I don’t have to parade my abs around to keep him warm at night.”

Beidou leaned back in her chair, clearly enjoying this. “Oh? When he was with me, from what I remember, he was the one doing all the warming.”

Mavuika’s eyes gleamed. “These days, he needs cooling off when I’m done with him.”

Aether’s face was crimson, mouth caught somewhere between protest and amusement.

“Ladies—” he began, then thought better of it.

The women ignored him again.

Beidou tilted her head. “You know, Mavuika, I like your fire. You’re bold, territorial, and intense. Reminds me a bit of myself. No wonder he’s obsessed.”

Mavuika crossed her arms with a smirk. “Bold of you to assume he talks about anything other than me lately.”

Beidou's eyes sparkled with mischief. “We’ll see. If you ever get tired of him, toss him back to sea. I’ll fish him up.”

Mavuika chuckled darkly. “He’s Natlan-bound now. If the storms sink your ship, he will be swimming back to me.”

Aether groaned, rubbing the back of his head where he’d been smacked. “Next time I flirt with a pirate, remind me to wear a helmet.”

Mavuika turned to him with a warning smile. “Next time?”

Aether coughed. “I meant in retrospect .”

Beidou laughed heartily and leaned back, clearly entertained. “I like her. She’s fun. But I’m still keeping your shirt that I shredded. Souvenir.”

Mavuika rolled her eyes. “Fine. I’m keeping him. Fair trade.”

They both smirked—two dangerous women perfectly aware of their power, and perfectly fine clashing sparks over the man they both cared about.

Aether? He was just grateful the ship was still floating.

As the three of them stepped out of the cabin, the entire crew froze—wide-eyed and slack-jawed.

There stood Mavuika, every inch the Pyro Archon incarnate, clad in her sleek biker jacket and long pants that seemed to shimmer like embers. Beside her, Captain Beidou rocked a sleeveless jacket, unzipped to reveal a toned sports bra underneath—pirate strength and swagger personified. And then there was their hero, Aether... shirtless, chest gleaming in the morning light.

The sailors erupted.

“By the Seven! Captain’s looking hotter than a midday sun!” one yelled, whistling loudly.

The female sailors, not to be outdone, began tossing out some rather indecent proposals:

“Hey, shirtless! How about a private dance under the moonlight?”
“Captain, you want us to show him a good time tonight?”
“Rum and a little ‘extra’ on the side—guaranteed to warm even a Pyro Archon!”

The bawdy calls went on for a few more moments until Mavuika’s sharp glare sliced through the noisy banter like a blade. “Enough,” she said, voice low but ice-cold. The sailors all immediately fell silent, the room shrinking with the weight of her presence.

Then the memory of the earlier sparring match—and the sailor’s unceremonious flight overboard—came flooding back. One of the bolder sailors gulped, stepping forward with head bowed. “Captain Beidou, we were wrong. We thought... we thought she was some escort Aether brought aboard as a gift.”

There was a collective shuffle and embarrassed murmurs as the crew scrambled to apologize to Mavuika.

Mavuika raised an eyebrow, amused despite herself. “And what, pray tell, prompted that particular assumption?”

The sailors glanced nervously at Aether, who shrugged apologetically. “I swear, I haven’t brought anyone like that on board before.”

The crew exchanged glances, nodding as if that explained everything.

Mavuika sighed, a slow smile curling her lips. “I am a God, not a prize to be bartered, but I appreciate the enthusiasm. No need for violence.” She looked toward Beidou, then back at the sailors. “Now, I will be taking the rum I won fair and square.”

Beidou chuckled deeply. “Sounds like a plan. How about we settle this the pirate way? Drinking contest. Tonight. Captain’s cabin.”

Aether’s eyes lit up. “I get to judge?”

“Of course,” Mavuika said with a wink. “You’ll need to keep Beidou honest.”

The sailors cheered, and the tension melted into laughter and lively anticipation for the evening’s contest—where fire met storm, and the prize was more than just rum.

Chapter Text

The Captain’s quarters were awash with warm lamplight and the salty scent of sea breeze sneaking through the porthole. Three figures sat cross-legged on the floor around a low, sturdy table, bottles of fine rum scattered like cannonballs around them.

Mavuika, now dressed in a loose white shirt with the top few buttons undone and a deep-red skirt that clung beautifully to her legs, sat on one side of the table with a competitive gleam in her eye. Captain Beidou, still rocking her sports bra and black shorts, lounged confidently on the other side, already nursing her third glass.

Aether sat between them, looking every bit the innocent lamb caught in the crossfire—except he was very much shirtless, at their request. His golden hair tousled, face faintly flushed—not from alcohol, but from being the focal point of both their playful attacks.

“Alright,” Beidou grinned, refilling both her and Mavuika’s cups, “you wanted stories? Let’s start with the time I pulled golden boy here out of a whirlpool—and he was wearing nothing but soaked undergarments.”

Aether groaned softly, already burying his face in his hand. “Please no—”

Beidou ignored him entirely, turning to Mavuika with a wicked smile. “The sun was behind him, light glinting off his wet skin, like a scene straight out of a romance novel. I was the first thing he saw when he woke up on deck.”

“And what did you do?” Mavuika asked, her voice dangerously curious.

“I dried him off. With my hands. Slowly.”

Mavuika gave Aether a sideways glance. “How generous of you.”

Aether blinked. “I was half-drowned!”

Mavuika sipped her drink, swirling the rum. “Well, my turn. I saw him leading a charge against an Abyss invasion in Natlan. Fire was everywhere. He wasn’t wearing much armour, just his scarf and a tattered shirt.”

Beidou raised a brow. “Go on.”

Mavuika leaned in slightly, her voice lowering just enough to make Aether twitch. “He was glowing with elemental energy. Covered in soot, shirt open, eyes blazing with determination. I wanted to drag him to the ground right then and there.”

Beidou laughed. “Oh-ho, fiery one, aren’t you?”

Aether looked like he wanted to disappear. “Why are both of you like this?”

“Because you’re irresistible ,” Beidou purred, leaning over and tapping his shoulder. “Still got those perfect shoulders. What a waste, just sitting there.”

Mavuika, not to be outdone, reached to brush some imaginary lint off Aether’s chest, her fingers deliberately lingering. “I’d say he’s more than just shoulders.”

Aether cleared his throat, resisting the urge to tug a pillow over his head. “I-I’m the judge, remember? Not the prize!”

Beidou grinned and raised her glass. “To the judge, then. May he remain shirtless for the rest of the night.”

“Cheers,” Mavuika added, clinking her glass. “And may the best woman win.”

The drinks flowed. More stories spilled out—each one more outrageous than the last. Aether, sipping his tonic water quietly, kept a tight hold on his composure, though his ears burned red.

Sometimes, he caught Mavuika’s eyes lingering on him with a smirk. Other times, Beidou’s fingers “accidentally” brushed his thigh as she poured more rum. The competition wasn’t just about drinking anymore—it was about who could make Aether squirm more.

And judging by the shade of crimson he wore, it was a very close match.

The last bottle of rum had been emptied. Or rather, nearly emptied—before Mavuika could tip the final glass, Aether smoothly swiped it from both their hands and downed it in one go.

"Alright," he declared, slamming it gently on the table, "it's a tie. The competition ends here."

Beidou blinked slowly. “That’sh not how...tie-breakersh work.”

“Shtalling,” Mavuika slurred, trying and failing to look dignified as she leaned against a pillow, her hair slightly tousled and her cheeks flushed.

“You both win,” Aether smiled, grabbing a few spare blankets from the storage chest. “And as your reward, you get a very cosy floor.”

With patience only a seasoned world-saver could possess, he arranged the blankets into a large, makeshift bed. Pillows at the edges, a folded jacket here and there, and finally two very inebriated warriors gently steered into place like rowboats guided into harbour. He lay between them, still shirtless, the sea breeze whispering through the open porthole.

He leaned toward Beidou first, brushing some hair away from her forehead and pressing a soft kiss there. “Sleep well, Captain.”

Then he turned to Mavuika, who blinked at him, her expression somewhere between smug and sleepy. “Goodnight, my flame,” he whispered, placing a warm kiss on her cheek.

Finally, he settled in—facing Beidou first, knowing full well he’d turn over midway through the night to avoid the possessive tug-of-war these two would definitely start in the morning.

As expected, Beidou’s arm snaked around him not long after. Even half-asleep, she was strong—her grip firm but comforting, like a safety net after a storm. Aether let out a soft breath, trying to ignore how her toned frame pressed into him. Despite the muscles, there was warmth, softness… and familiarity.

She sighed in her sleep and whispered something unintelligible before fully relaxing. The strength in her hold faded into a peaceful, trusting embrace.

Aether hesitated for a moment, then gently returned the hug. He smiled to himself. For all the teasing, the wild stories, and the competition—they were all still friends.

And he wouldn’t trade that for anything.

Aether stirred awake just past midnight. The moonlight spilled into Beidou’s cabin through the porthole, casting gentle silver patterns across the floor and the figures sleeping beside him. The air carried the faint tang of salt, wood, and the last traces of rum. He quietly sat up, careful not to jostle either of them too much. He knew if he didn’t get them to drink water now, they’d be in for a miserable morning—Beidou would grumble through her hangover like a stormy sea, and Mavuika… well, Mavuika might just scorch the air around her.

He looked at them both as he poured the water. Mavuika, rarely seen in anything other than her leather jacket and long pants, was now in a simple skirt and loose shirt. The moonlight played along her legs, highlighting muscle, elegance, and fire-forged strength. She looked like a warrior goddess caught mid-dream.

Beidou, for once, had taken off her eyepatch. Without it, there was a softness to her expression that Aether rarely saw—peaceful and proud. Her hair had fallen loosely around her shoulders, and in the moonlight, her sculpted form was nothing short of statuesque. He smiled faintly to himself, shaking his head to clear his thoughts. Admiration was one thing. Getting distracted while people needed water was another.

One by one, he gently woke them enough to sip from the flask—supporting their backs, brushing hair from their faces, coaxing them with quiet words. Mavuika murmured something sleepy but obeyed, and Beidou muttered a half-hearted toast before finishing her share and collapsing back into the blankets.

Aether lay back down at last, this time turning to face Mavuika. She was already half-curled toward him, hand resting lazily near his chest.

He pulled her in gently, letting his hand settle on her thigh rather than her waist. She was warm—radiating that steady, comforting heat he’d come to know so well. Her skin, even in slumber, seemed to pulse with power just beneath the surface.

“Goodnight, flameheart,” he whispered, barely audible.

Her body shifted closer in response, unconsciously seeking his warmth in return. Smiling, Aether finally allowed himself to rest, the rhythm of the sea matching the steady beat of her heart beneath his hand.

Mavuika stirred awake to the low creaking of wood and the hush of waves against the hull. Sunlight streamed through the porthole in golden threads, warming her face and glinting off the rum bottle tipped on its side.

She blinked slowly, taking in her surroundings—Beidou’s cabin, the faint scent of salt and spice in the air, a crumpled blanket at her side.

And Aether.

Her gaze dropped to the man tucked against her, his face buried near her collarbone, breath slow and even. One of his arms was lazily draped over her, but not around her waist as he usually did. No—his hand had found its way to her thigh, fingers splayed across bare skin as if it belonged there. His grip was loose now, but the imprint of his hold was unmistakable.

Mavuika smirked.

So he likes the legs too… good to know.

She tilted her head slightly, eyeing Beidou behind him. The pirate captain had clung to Aether like a second blanket through the night—one arm wrapped tight around his middle, her cheek pressed against his shoulder. The marks of Beidou’s toned form had etched themselves onto Aether’s back, red impressions along his spine and ribs.

Possessive woman, Mavuika thought with a roll of her eyes. But there was no venom in it. Only amusement.

She glanced again at the golden-haired boy tucked between them. Her lover. Her bold, battle-scarred hero who apparently had no shame cuddling both women like a prize pillow.

She couldn't help but chuckle softly. He worshipped her like fire itself—her strength, her body, her spirit. And while it was sometimes a little much… it was also kind of adorable. Endearing, even. Her cheeks warmed just a bit.

I never knew it was possible to be wanted like this. Not for power. Not for glory. Just… wanted.

She brushed a strand of his hair out of his eyes. He didn’t stir.

A sudden throb at the back of her head made her wince.

Right. The rum.

Still, for what was technically her first sleepover, it wasn’t bad at all. A bit chaotic. A bit too warm in the middle. But between the laughter, the drunken honesty, and waking up wrapped in someone’s arms… it was oddly comforting. She sighed and let her head fall back on the pillow, allowing herself to rest just a few moments longer. After all, mornings like this didn’t come often—and she planned to enjoy every second of it. Even if Beidou was still clinging to her man like a barnacle.

Aether shifted with a sleepy murmur, his hand brushing against Mavuika’s thigh before retracting in a drowsy flinch. His eyes cracked open, dazed and golden, as he tried to register the warmth pressed against his back. Before he could even move, Beidou groaned behind him, stirring as well. The moment she sensed him waking, she instinctively tightened her grip, her arms winding around his waist like rope.

Mavuika raised an eyebrow, amused. “Well, well. Good morning to my clingy lovers.”

Aether blinked blearily, caught between the two women like a spoon in a forge. “What… happened?”

“You, my dear, got smothered ,” Mavuika said, reaching over to trace the faint red marks running down his bare back. “Look at this! Your back’s a map of Beidou’s sports bra.”

“Hmm?” Beidou peeked one eye open and winced at the sunlight—and Mavuika’s grin. “Too early for sass,” she mumbled, then with surprising strength, she rolled Aether onto his back and slid herself over to his front, throwing a leg over him. “Five more minutes.”

“Hey!” Mavuika protested half-heartedly. “That’s my man, not your weighted blanket.”

Beidou didn’t move, only nestled Aether’s head gently against her bare shoulder and held him tighter. Her voice, low and rough from sleep (and rum), carried more weight than her usual bravado. “Just five minutes. Who knows when I’ll see him again.”

Mavuika paused, watching the way Beidou’s fingers curled in Aether’s hair. There was a faint tremor in her hold—nothing lustful. Just… lingering.

The Fire Archon felt something stir in her chest. She had teased Beidou before about being all biceps and bravado, but this wasn’t just about physical sparks. Beidou genuinely liked Aether.

And if Mavuika hadn’t stepped into the picture… maybe the pirate captain would have made her move. She remembered her own hesitations before confessing. That ache of wanting someone so deeply, but never knowing if you’d missed your moment. She had nearly lost her chance too.

So instead of pulling Aether back—or fanning the flames of jealousy—Mavuika offered something else. “…Fine,” she said, softer now. “You can have your five minutes.”

Beidou blinked in surprise, glancing up at her.

Mavuika smiled. “And I’ll bring him by more often. Maybe not shirtless, though.”

Beidou chuckled, eyes closing again as she buried her face in Aether’s hair. “I won’t say no.”

Aether, still nestled between two powerful women, let out a muffled groan. “I feel like… a souvenir…”

“You are ,” both women said in unison, then glanced at each other.

Then, laughter—tired, hoarse, and genuine—filled the cabin.

As the trio stepped out of the Captain’s cabin into the fresh morning air, the sailors instantly perked up. A few of them, already gathered around with mugs of tea and light hangovers, straightened up and saluted half-playfully.

“Oi, who won the drinking match, Captain?” someone shouted.

Aether smiled sheepishly, adjusting his collar as he stepped forward. “It was a draw.”

Groans and cheers echoed in equal measure. A few sailors exchanged coins—apparently, there had been bets.

Mavuika glanced sideways at Beidou with a smirk. “You’d think they were wagering on a Stormterror raid, not two women drinking rum.”

Beidou chuckled, arms crossed over her sports bra, still looking every bit the pirate queen. “They know better than to underestimate either of us.”

Mavuika and Aether stepped forward for their goodbyes. Beidou’s eyes met Aether’s, and she pulled him in for a hug—firm and warm.

As he leaned in, she murmured low into his ear, “If you were single… you wouldn’t be walking straight right now.”

Aether sputtered and pulled back from the hug redder than a Pyro Slime. “Uh—thanks for the hospitality!”

Mavuika, ever the perceptive one, rolled her eyes and stepped in for a brief hug herself. “Don’t go stealing my man in dreams, Captain.”

Beidou grinned lazily. “Only if he starts dreaming about me first.”

They both laughed. It was bold and flirty, but the edge had dulled. There was no malice, no threat—just mutual recognition of what could have been, and respect for what was . As Mavuika and Aether walked down the gangplank, Beidou stood at the rail, arms resting on the wood, watching them disappear toward the city.

A few of her female crewmates drifted over, glancing sideways at her. “So, uh… did you finally make your move, Captain?”

Beidou exhaled, shaking her head. “Nah. Lost that chance a while ago.”

They looked at each other, some frowning sympathetically.

“But,” Beidou added, voice softening, “he’s in good hands. The Pyro Archon herself. If anyone’s strong enough to deserve him, it’s her.”

There was a pause. One sailor scratched the back of her neck. “You okay with it?”

Beidou smiled faintly, the corners of her eyes crinkling. “I had a good time last night. That’s enough for me.”

The sailors nodded, quietly standing beside her as they watched the golden-haired traveler and the Fire Archon fade into the morning bustle of the city.

And for the first time in a while, Beidou didn’t feel like she was watching someone sail away without her.

She just felt… full.

Chapter Text

As they strolled along the mountain trail toward the Jade Chamber, Mavuika glanced at Aether from the corner of her eye, her expression casual—at first. “So,” she began, tone light but with a sharp undertone, “are all your exes this serious about you, or is Beidou some kind of special exception?”

Aether chuckled, hands tucked behind his head as he walked. “Beidou is special. She was the one who smuggled me into Inazuma when the Vision Hunt Decree was still going strong. Took on a whole Shogunate patrol to keep me safe. She’s fierce, and loyal, and more than a little terrifying when she wants to be.”

Mavuika smiled faintly, accepting the answer… until Aether added with a totally straight face: “But honestly? Most of the women we’ll meet on this trip have strong feelings too. Beidou’s just the… more aggressive type.”

Mavuika blinked. “What.”

He began listing them off, completely serious.

“Ayaka’s the quiet type, but I’ve seen how she looks at me. I accompanied her to the Narukami Shrine once during a festival. She’s subtle, but it’s there. Yoimiya? I literally lifted her like a princess during the fireworks in Sumeru—she still brings that up.”

Mavuika raised a brow. “You carried her? In  Sumeru?”

“She was tired,” Aether defended. “And in a pretty kimono. Anyway, Kuki? Took her mask off for me. She doesn't do that for anyone.”

He wasn’t done.

“Miko teases me about my height, calls me 'little one' - but in her fox form she just wraps around me . Like an actual tail hug. And Ei? She practically lights up when I visit. One time she actually tried to make breakfast herself. It was shit, but at least she tried. ”

Mavuika had stopped walking. Her face was unreadable, her eye twitching. “…You’re unbelievable.”

“Hm?” Aether turned around with a smile too smug for someone his size.

Mavuika smacked him on the head with an open palm—not too hard, but enough to bonk his ego down a level.

“ Ow! What was that for?!”

“You sounded like a walking harem anime protagonist!”

Aether rubbed the spot, grinning. “You asked.”

“I teased ,” Mavuika said, crossing her arms. “Didn’t expect a full monologue with footnotes.”

He shot her a sly grin. “Jealous?”

She looked away, her cheeks faintly warm. “I’m not jealous. Just annoyed my lover turned into a humblebragging heartthrob for two minutes.”

“Fair. Want me to stop?”

“Yes.”

“Want me to tell you how you’re way hotter and stronger than all of them put together?”

“…You may proceed.”

Aether laughed, looping his arm around her waist. “My Pyro Archon, unmatched in beauty, battle, and all other forms of divine hotness.”

Mavuika smirked. “Still doesn’t excuse the harem speech. You’re lucky you’re cute.”

“You say that every time you hit me.”

“Because it’s true.”

And with that, they continued up the path—his pride slightly bruised, her heart secretly warmed.

Paimon greeted them at the top of the Jade Chamber, standing triumphantly beside a tray of fresh almond tofu with a half-eaten cookie in her hand and crumbs on her cheek.

“Welcome back!” she chirped, mouth still full. “You two look— munch —windblown.”

Mavuika raised a brow. “That a cookie in your mouth?”

“No!” Crunch.

Aether chuckled, tousling her hair as he passed. “Glad someone’s enjoying the vacation.”

The moment Ningguang stepped into view from behind the hanging silks, her eyes narrowed slightly. She approached gracefully, her nose twitching ever so faintly. “…Captain Beidou’s perfume.”

Her gaze slid to Aether’s ruffled hair, still tangled slightly from the sea breeze, and the subtle pink mark on his neck that hadn’t quite faded.

She smiled. “Oh, I see.”

Before Aether could even comment, Ningguang looped her arm through Mavuika’s and began leading her away. “Traveler, bath’s down the corridor. Go wash Beidou's scent off. You, Fire Queen, are coming with me.”

“What—?” Mavuika blinked.

“For tea,” Ningguang added sweetly. “And gossip. ”

Paimon pointed toward the bath and resumed chewing. “Run, Traveler. Run while you can.”

In Ningguang’s private study, the tea had barely been poured before she gave Mavuika a sideways look. “So. How was our dear Captain?”

Mavuika nearly choked on the delicate oolong. “We just had a drinking contest.”

“Is that what we’re calling it?” Ningguang's smirk was refined, but absolutely wicked. “I’m sure Traveler didn’t mind playing prize.”

Mavuika flushed, setting her cup down with forced composure. “He was very… responsible. Hydrated us. Tucked us in.”

“Of course he did. Good man.” Ningguang leaned closer, resting her chin on her hand. “You should know… Beidou talks about him. A lot. Loudly. Usually when drinking. And she’s not the only one.”

Mavuika tilted her head. “You too?”

Ningguang nodded, just once. “Ours was quieter. No fireworks. No sea storms. But precious, in its own way. Traveler’s kindness is a dangerous thing—you feel safe, and before you realize it, you’re… hoping.”

Mavuika gave a sympathetic smile.

Ningguang, of course, recovered quickly, sipping her tea before adding with a lazy confidence, “Beidou’s been trying to pitch a threesome for years. I always declined. She’s too bold. I prefer subtlety.”

“And now?”

“I still prefer subtlety.” Ningguang’s eyes twinkled. “But if Beidou has gotten that sleepover… I do believe I am owed one.”

Mavuika blinked. “You want a sleepover with Aether?”

Ningguang gave her a mock gasp. “Why, of course. He’s charming. Excellent bedtime conversation. And I refuse to let Beidou of all people one-up me. That would be defeat!”

Mavuika laughed. “You all sound like you’re in a secret competition.”

“It’s not secret,” Ningguang said smoothly. “It’s just unspoken.”

She stood, brushing invisible dust from her sleeve. “So you’ll return, yes? Like you promised Beidou?”

“I will,” Mavuika said honestly. “With Aether.”

“Good,” Ningguang replied. “Because next time, you’re staying here. I intend to win my time too.”

Aether knew exactly what he was walking into.

Fresh from his bath, water still glistening along his collarbones, he stepped deliberately into Ningguang’s study. No shirt. Just a towel draped casually around his neck and beach shorts clinging low on his hips. His golden hair was slightly tousled, and he wore that infuriatingly innocent smile—the kind that absolutely wasn’t innocent.

Mavuika froze mid-sip. Ningguang's fan lowered just slightly.

“Well,” Ningguang said smoothly, “someone seems refreshed.”

“I must’ve taken a wrong turn,” Aether said, completely unconvincing. “Sorry. Didn’t know you two were still here.”

Mavuika raised a brow. “You took a wrong turn in a place you've visited dozens of times?”

But Ningguang wasn't interested in interrogating. She was admiring.

Then came the real surprise: the door to the study creaked open again. “Oh, Lady Ningguang, we saw your door—”

Baishi, Baiwen, and Baixiao stopped mid-sentence.

Three pairs of eyes landed squarely on shirtless Aether. And then did not leave him.

“Oh my,” Baixiao whispered, clutching her clipboard.

“Good afternoon, ladies,” Aether said, voice syrup-smooth.

Ningguang gave a long, theatrical sigh. “I suppose privacy is no longer a thing.”

“W-we were just delivering reports!” Baishi said. “For your… um… mid-morning—”

“Meal schedule audit,” Baiwen added quickly, clearly lying.

“Very critical,” Baixiao agreed, already half swooning.

Aether, full of mischief, smiled wider. With a small flourish of his hand, he dipped into his inventory and produced six glowing Glaze Lilies . He handed out two to each of the secretaries with practised grace.

“For the ladies who keep the Jade Chamber from falling out of the sky,” he said. “You’re the unsung heroes here. Thank you for everything you do.”

Mavuika squinted. “Excuse me?”

“ Ahem. ” Ningguang lifted her brows.

But Aether didn’t turn. One of the secretaries—the youngest—actually had to sit down , her knees buckling as she clutched her lilies like precious relics.

“We don’t get much appreciation, really…” she whispered.

“You do now,” Aether said warmly.

The other two sat beside her, as if in reverent support.

Mavuika crossed her arms, amused. “Flirting with the staff now, are we?”

Aether turned slowly, giving both Ningguang and Mavuika an infuriatingly smug look. “You’re royalty. You're Archons and rulers. You get plenty of attention.”

Then he winked—at the secretaries.

Baixiao nearly passed out again.

Aether crouched to eye-level with the seated secretaries, the towel still draped around his neck, his hair slightly damp and catching the sunlight that filtered through the curtains. The Glaze Lilies rested delicately in their hands, but their eyes were locked onto something else entirely.

“You know,” he said, his voice low and smooth, “when people think of Liyue, they think of Rex Lapis… or Ningguang… or maybe the Tianquan’s diamonds. But me? I think of the heartbeat behind the paperwork. The grace between the pages. The secretaries who keep this place alive.”

Baishi gasped softly. “That’s… very poetic, Traveler.”

He offered a lopsided smile. “I try. Especially for ladies who deserve a little extra sunshine.”

Baiwen nearly dropped her flowers.

“You all work so hard. You rarely get to slow down. I hope you take time for yourselves. Take in the sea air. Feel beautiful.”

“W-we don’t get told that often,” Baixiao murmured, blushing from ear to ear.

“You should,” Aether replied, reaching out gently to tuck a stray strand of hair behind Baixiao’s ear. She visibly melted.

Baishi clutched her Glaze Lily to her chest like it was a love letter. Baiwen had entirely stopped pretending she was here for work.

Aether’s smile was kind, charming, and utterly calculated. He turned his head slightly, letting the light hit his golden lashes just right. “If there’s ever anything you need—tea, dessert, even a story—just ask. I’m a good listener.”

That was the final blow. All three stood up abruptly, flustered and dizzy, muttering something about “urgent tasks” and “immediate reports,” and practically fled the room, cheeks glowing like lanterns.

“Take care!” Aether called behind them. “And hydrate!”

The door clicked shut.

Silence.

And then he felt it—two distinct shadows falling over him. Slowly, Aether turned, already feeling the heat radiating off of them.

Mavuika stood with her arms folded, one brow twitching. Ningguang had her fan half-open, but her eyes were all daggers.

“Ten minutes,” Ningguang said softly. “No flower for us. Not even a look. ”

“Not even a compliment,” Mavuika added, voice sugar-sweet. “And I was wearing a skirt!”

Aether backed up slightly, towel still clinging to him. “W-well, I figured—”

“Oh, you figured wrong,” Ningguang said, stepping forward.

Mavuika’s eyes narrowed. “Time to pay your dues, Harem King. ”

Aether swallowed.

He’d forgotten the golden rule.

Never ignore the women who can and will outplay you.

Aether let out a dramatic sigh as he stood before Ningguang’s massive floor-to-ceiling bookshelf, stacked with scrolls, tomes, and ledgers arranged more by aesthetics than by logic. Still shirtless, the towel had since been tossed aside, leaving his toned back fully on display as he reached for the uppermost shelves.

Behind him, lounging on a silk chaise, sat Ningguang and Mavuika—like queens watching a favoured servant perform a dance. Mavuika had one leg crossed over the other, chin resting in her palm as she muttered, “The muscles on his back are moving like clockwork… who knew punishment could be this visually pleasing?”

Ningguang smirked, fanning herself lazily. “I’m almost tempted to disorganise the shelf again later, just to watch him redo it.”

“Don’t tempt me to sabotage it right now,” Mavuika replied with a wink.

Aether grunted. “You know I can hear you.”

“That’s the idea,” both women said at once.

Aether returned to alphabetising trade records with exaggerated precision. As he reached upward, stretching for a rare manuscript, Mavuika’s eyes briefly widened. “Sweet Celestia… he’s doing it on purpose now.”

Ningguang tilted her fan to better hide her expression. “He’s weaponising his body. Typical Harem King strategy.”

But then Ningguang’s gaze drifted past Aether—toward the hallway. Her sharp eyes narrowed slightly. From the barely ajar door, three familiar heads were peeking in.

Baishi. Baiwen. Baixiao.

They were stacked like a stealthy totem pole, each woman trying not to make a sound as they beheld the Divine Spectacle of Aether at Work.

Baishi mouthed something that looked like, “He’s so pretty.”

Baiwen’s eyes sparkled. She had notes.

Baixiao had her hands clasped together, either in prayer or to keep from swooning.

Ningguang didn’t turn her head, but she quietly muttered, “Mavuika. Incoming guests.”

Mavuika followed her line of sight. “I thought we sent them off with flowers and blushes.”

“Apparently, shirtless rearrangement of knowledge is the true weakness,” Ningguang mused.

Mavuika snorted. “Should we call them out?”

“Oh no,” Ningguang said with a devious glint. “Let’s see how long it takes him to notice.”

And so, the ladies leaned back once more—Ningguang sipping her tea with elegance, Mavuika smirking into her hand—as Aether remained diligently at work, completely unaware of the secret adoration club that had formed just beyond the door.

Aether’s hands paused mid-shelf, finally sensing the hushed giggles and faint shuffles behind the door. He turned his head slightly, a knowing smirk spreading across his lips. “You know,” he called out, “if you’re going to spy, you might as well come help.”

A beat of silence.

Then—three flustered secretaries scurried in, trying their best to appear composed. “We were just… passing by!” Baishi claimed. Baixiao nodded too quickly. Baiwen said nothing, already clutching a clipboard like her life depended on it.

“I need some extra hands,” Aether continued, stepping down from the stool for a moment. “Just hold the books as I rearrange. Should be easy enough, right?”

The women practically sprinted into place.

As Aether climbed back up onto the stool, the three of them gathered beneath, holding up tomes with reverent care. They looked up when he took each book—eyes lingering a little longer than necessary. Their cheeks flushed, hearts racing.

From her seat, Ningguang’s eyes narrowed as she sipped her tea.

“My, my…” she said coolly. “Their uniforms look a bit... looser than usual.”

Mavuika tilted her head, golden eyes sparkling. “You’re right. All three of them unbuttoned the top. Strategic.”

Ningguang smiled behind her fan. “And Aether’s on a stool. Bold.”

Aether, meanwhile, oblivious or deliberately aloof, worked quickly above them. With the angle he had, it was impossible not to catch a glimpse—subtle hints of lace, the curve of a collarbone, the faintest shift of breath when one of them exhaled too hard.

Still, he kept things professional. Mostly.

When he finally stepped down, satisfied, the secretaries looked like they’d survived a divine encounter.

“Thanks for the help,” he said warmly, placing a hand on each of their shoulders in turn.

But then—he pulled them in for brief, soft hugs. Each one froze mid-step before melting into it, and when he let go, they were left blinking in silence, slightly dazed.

They stumbled out of the room with red cheeks, whispering things like “His scent—oh my gods,” and “Was that an ab flex during the hug or am I imagining it?”

Aether turned to find both Ningguang and Mavuika giving him the same flat look.

“What?” he said innocently.

Ningguang arched an eyebrow. “You owe me a new pen. That show made me break mine.”

Mavuika smirked. “Should I be worried that you hugged all three of them and still haven’t hugged me since your bath?”

He blinked. “I was going to save the best for last.”

“Nice save,” Ningguang admitted.

Aether ran a hand through his damp hair. “Anyway… we’ll be leaving after lunch. Natlan’s waiting.”

Ningguang stood, gliding toward him. “Then you’re not allowed to leave without giving me a goodbye hug, either. And I expect more than a thank-you.”

Mavuika leaned close to whisper in Aether’s ear, breath tickling his neck. “You’ve been very bold this morning, Tumaini. I hope you have stamina left for lunch. ”

Aether swallowed.

Natlan could wait another hour.

Chapter Text

As Aether adjusted the towel around his neck and turned toward the door, a soft idea bloomed in his golden eyes. “Hey,” he said, glancing back at the women behind him. “Since Mavuika and I are leaving today… how about I cook lunch before we go?”

Ningguang tilted her head, intrigued. “Here? In the Jade Chamber?”

“If that’s alright with you,” Aether said with a small smile. “I’d like to invite your secretaries too. Baishi, Baiwen, Baixiao—they’ve been working so hard behind the scenes, and I’m sure they rarely get the appreciation they deserve. Besides…” He rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly, “I think they’ve earned it after helping me with your library.”

Ningguang watched him for a moment, her fan lowering slightly as something soft glimmered in her eyes.

That boy… Always thoughtful. Always attentive. And not just to her or Mavuika, but even to the quietest people in the room—the ones most others ignored. The flirtation, the teasing, the playful confidence—it was all real. But beneath it lived a heart that saw people. That remembered them. That valued them.

And that— that was why Ningguang had come to love him, silently, from the background. He wasn’t a prince in polished gold. He was the sun itself—radiant, warm, irresistible.

“You have my permission,” she said, her voice softer than usual. “I’ll send word to the kitchen that you’ll be using it.”

Aether beamed. “Thank you!”

With that, he spun on his heel and headed off, already rehearsing the menu in his head.

As his footsteps faded, the room quieted. Mavuika leaned back into the plush couch, her fiery hair catching the light. “His heart’s too damn big,” she muttered fondly.

Ningguang chuckled, settling beside her, legs crossed with practised grace. “He’s a dangerous man. The kind who conquers cities not with armies—but with kindness. With warmth. Even people like us … we lose ground.”

Mavuika smiled sideways. “I never stood a chance.”

“Neither did I,” Ningguang admitted, her voice wistful, but without bitterness. “But you were braver. You reached for him. And he reached back.”

Mavuika lowered her gaze. “Yeah… but I know I’m not the only one who fell. And I’m not the only one he caught.”

“Maybe,” Ningguang said. “But you’re the one he stays with.”

For a moment, neither woman spoke—only the soft sound of wind rustling the curtains.

Then Ningguang sighed dramatically. “Still, if he makes dessert… I call dibs on the first bite.”

“Too late,” Mavuika grinned. “I already bribed him with a kiss for that.”

“Tch. Unfair.” Ningguang raised her fan with playful indignation. “Next time, I’m offering him silk robes and a spa day.”

“Next time?” Mavuika teased.

“Oh, I’ve decided,” Ningguang said, eyes gleaming. “He owes me many more visits. After all… the Jade Chamber isn’t complete without a bit of sunlight.”

When Aether approached the secretaries’ shared office, he knocked gently and peeked in with his signature smile. “Hey, do you three have a moment?”

Baishi looked up, slightly startled. “Ah, Traveler! Of course. Is something wrong?”

“Nothing wrong,” he said brightly, stepping in. “I just came to invite you three to lunch. I’ll be cooking.”

The trio blinked at him.

“Wait… lunch? With you ?” Baixiao asked slowly.

“And with the Pyro Archon and Lady Ningguang?” Baiwen added, brows raised.

Aether nodded, cheerful and sincere. “Yup! Just a little farewell lunch before Mavuika and I head back to Natlan. I thought it’d be nice to share a meal.”

The secretaries exchanged looks, hesitating. Baishi cleared her throat, shifting uneasily. “We really appreciate the invite, but… it feels a little too grand for us. Sitting beside the Archon of War and Liyue’s most powerful woman… we’re just staff. That kind of thing isn’t really for people like us.”

Aether blinked, then walked further into the room, placing both hands on the center desk and leaning in gently. “Hey, no. Don’t do that. It’s lunch , not a political summit.”

“But still—” Baiwen started.

“No ‘but still’,” Aether interrupted, smiling gently. “You work so hard behind the scenes, and it matters. The Jade Chamber wouldn’t function without you three. So I want to treat you— as people . Not as roles.”

That gave them pause.

“But… we still have a whole stack of files to finish by sunset,” Baixiao said reluctantly, gesturing at the growing paperwork.

“Then let me help,” Aether offered at once.

The women all stared.

“I’m serious,” he said, already pulling a chair up and grabbing a stack of forms. “If we all work together, we’ll finish faster. Then we cook together. Deal?”

Something about the way he said it—with so much heart , so naturally—made it impossible to say no.

“...Deal,” Baishi finally said, her lips twitching into a smile.

Moments later, Aether was seated at the center of the office like the sun, sleeves rolled, sorting documents, filing ledgers, stamping approvals under their supervision. He chatted casually, told jokes from Natlan, described how Paimon once fell into a soup pot (and tried to blame it on him), and occasionally flirted just enough to make one of them giggle mid-ink stroke.

“You’re surprisingly efficient,” Baiwen remarked, genuinely impressed.

“Part-time hero, full-time secretary,” Aether quipped with a wink.

Outside the office door, slightly down the corridor, Mavuika and Ningguang stood quietly. They had followed him, hoping for some mischief or amusement—but instead, they found themselves watching something far more tender.

Mavuika leaned in and whispered, “He’s actually doing paperwork. Willingly.”

“He’s… really good at it,” Ningguang whispered back, her eyes fixed on the scene.

More than that—he was gentle . With every comment, every word of praise, every time he said, “You do so much,” Ningguang could feel her throat tightening. Her secretaries had been with her for years. And yet…

“I’ve never seen anyone care for them like that,” she murmured, voice soft, almost trembling. “Not even me.”

Mavuika touched her arm gently.

Ningguang wiped the corner of her eye with practised grace. “I need to do more. I should do more.”

Mavuika nodded, warmth in her gaze. “Well… now you’ve got inspiration.”

Inside, Aether high-fived Baixiao for finishing a report without any mistakes, then turned to help Baishi stack the completed forms. The office was full of laughter.

He didn’t just see people. He uplifted them.

And that made all the difference.

The last document was stamped, the final file slotted into its place, and with a triumphant sigh, the secretaries slumped back in their chairs. “That’s the fastest we’ve cleared paperwork in months,” Baixiao muttered, wiping her brow.

Aether grinned. “Maybe I should moonlight as a secretary.”

“Oh no, we’d get nothing done if you were around all the time,” Baiwen teased, her voice soft with admiration. “We’d just stare at you.”

Baishi, unusually bold, added, “You say that like we didn’t spend the last hour doing exactly that while pretending to work twice as hard.”

Aether chuckled as Paimon floated in, proudly dropping a stack of forms on the desk. “These are the last ones! Paimon was also super helpful, right?”, the fairy asked.

“You were perfect, Assistant Paimon,” Aether said, ruffling her hair. She beamed.

He then pulled out his trusty Kamera and adjusted it on a cabinet nearby. “One last thing—before we eat, let’s take a photo together.”

The secretaries lit up with surprise and delight. They quickly neatened their hair, tucked stray strands away, fixed collars. Aether motioned them in and stood in the center, pulling Baixiao and Baishi in by the shoulders, with Baiwen leaning closer from the side. Paimon floated above, giving a peace sign.

Click.

Aether handed each of them a printed copy moments later. “So you’ll remember today. I will.”

Their expressions softened. Baiwen clutched her photo like it was a treasure. Baixiao whispered something to herself, cheeks pink.

As they walked out toward the kitchen, the secretaries stuck unusually close to him—Baishi on his left, Baiwen on his right, and Baixiao just behind, fingers brushing his as if daring a touch.

“So… do you cook shirtless too?” Baixiao asked teasingly.

Aether smirked, eyes half-lidded. “Only if the company’s cute enough.”

All three giggled—real, delighted, feminine giggles—and even dared to flirt back.

“You better watch out,” Baiwen murmured, “we’re not shy anymore.”

Aether looked over them with amused affection. “I’m beginning to notice. You three are more dangerous than the Abyss Mages in the clear pool and mountain cavern domain.”

That earned another round of laughter, and a chorus of denials all laced with flirtatious glances and light brushes of fingers.

Behind them, hiding behind a decorative screen down the hall, Mavuika and Ningguang watched like two spies on a mission. “Your boyfriend is being swarmed,” Ningguang murmured, arms crossed, lips twitching with amusement.

“He knows exactly what he’s doing,” Mavuika whispered back, squinting as Baixiao leaned in again, practically wrapping herself around his arm.

“He is dangerously charming.”

“Yeah,” Mavuika muttered, eyes narrowing slightly. “And those girls are too pretty for their own good.”

Ningguang hummed. “You worried?”

“I could accidentally sneeze and set them on fire,” Mavuika replied dryly.

“Oh? Jealousy looks good on you.”

“Shut up, Ningguang.”

They both snickered behind the screen like schoolgirls, already eager to see how far this show would go before lunch.

From the vantage point of a nearby corridor, Mavuika, Ningguang, and Paimon peeked into the kitchen like a trio of gossiping spies.

Inside, it was a vision straight out of a romantic drama.

Aether, sleeves rolled, his toned arms on full display, moved through the kitchen with practised grace. Beside him, the secretaries coordinated like backup dancers in a cooking show—Baixiao chopping herbs, Baiwen stirring a pot, Baishi sautéing vegetables. They worked in perfect harmony with him, laughing softly at his jokes, mirroring his motions, and handing him tools before he even asked.

But the real chaos came when Aether dipped a finger into one of the gravies to taste, humming in satisfaction—only for Baixiao to shyly offer her finger next.

“You can try from mine,” she murmured, cheeks red as her lipstick.

Aether, smooth as ever, leaned in and gave a quick, playful lick. Baixiao nearly dropped the spoon.

In seconds, the other two were hovering with mysterious dabs of sauce on their fingertips. 

“My turn?”
“I think mine needs a taste test too.”

Aether gave them each a teasing look, the corner of his lip curling in that dangerous way. “You’re really testing my self-control here.”

Muffled from their hideout, Paimon snorted. “Oh, he’s doomed.”

But the secretaries weren’t done. While grabbing plates from the higher shelf, Baishi’s shirt rode up just enough to show a teasing flash of skin at her waist. Baiwen leaned in a little too close, her arm brushing Aether’s side deliberately as she reached for spices. Aether, ever the flirt, played right into it—handing over utensils with warm smiles, complimenting their teamwork, and offering the occasional flirty wink that sent them into giggles.

Mavuika’s eyes were glowing faintly now. Her fiery hair flickered with orange sparks like a candle catching the wind. Every time one of the secretaries got too close, or when Aether smirked a little too seductively, her hair flared just a bit brighter.

“She’s gonna combust,” Paimon whispered.

Ningguang sipped her tea, serene as ever. “No, she’s saving it. Planning her revenge carefully, I imagine.”

“Bold of them to flirt in front of an Archon,” Paimon added.

“Bold of Traveler to enjoy it this much,” Ningguang replied, a sly smile playing on her lips.

Mavuika said nothing. She simply stared, eyes narrowed, hair glowing faintly behind her, already plotting the payback in delicious detail.

She’d let Aether have his fun now. But oh, once lunch was over—

He was hers .

Chapter Text

The scent of glazed vegetables and spiced broth filled the Jade Chamber’s dining hall as Aether and the secretaries plated the lunch with practised ease. Laughter still echoed faintly from the kitchen, the mood warm and full of pride at their collective effort.

“Lunch is ready!” Aether called out, wiping his hands and looking at Ningguang, Mavuika, and Paimon.

Paimon zoomed in like a meteor, already armed with a spoon. “Finally!”

Ningguang walked in with practised grace, offering Aether an approving glance as she sat. “You’ve impressed my staff and stolen their hearts. Should I be worried?”

“You should be flattered,” he replied with a wink.

Mavuika had paused just outside to wash her hands in the ornate basin along the wall, cooling herself after watching the rom-com-worthy chaos that unfolded earlier. She didn't hear his approach until he was behind her—close enough to feel his breath on her neck.

“You’ve been very patient,” Aether murmured, his voice soft and honeyed.

Mavuika blinked. “What are you—?”

His lips dipped close to her ear, and he whispered, “When we get back to Natlan, I’m going to eat you for dinner.”

She stiffened, eyes widening as he continued, voice like molten silk.

“I’ll take my time with you… savour every bit… using my tongue, my hands.” Aether’s tone curled around her like smoke, every syllable laced with mischief. “And if you’ve got any strength left when I’m done… maybe you can have me for dessert.”

Mavuika’s knees nearly gave out. Her face went crimson instantly, heat blooming from her cheeks to the tips of her ears. She let out a scandalised huff and gave him a shove—more instinct than force.

“Aether!” she hissed.

He just grinned, utterly pleased with himself, and sauntered off toward the dining table like he hadn’t just lit her imagination on fire. Mavuika stood there, rooted to the floor, trying to gather her scattered thoughts. Her mind betrayed her—picturing every teasing word he’d said in far too much detail. That horny bastard!

By the time she walked into the dining hall, her face still flushed, no one seemed to notice—except Aether, who greeted her with the most innocent smile in Teyvat.

The table was full now. Ningguang’s secretaries had taken their seats, eyes shining with admiration for Aether. The food was served beautifully—sautéed lotus roots, golden shrimp balls, stir-fried noodles, and a special dessert topped with sugar glaze.

Paimon had already started eating.

“This is so good!” she mumbled through a mouthful. “Why don’t you cook like this every day?!”

Aether chuckled, shooting a glance at Mavuika, who still hadn’t entirely recovered. He leaned back casually in his chair, basking in the shared meal, the laughter, and the fluttering glances from the secretaries seated nearby.

Ningguang sipped her tea and eyed Mavuika knowingly. “You’re awfully quiet. Something on your mind?”

Mavuika quickly straightened in her seat. “Nope. Just… enjoying the food.”

Aether, across from her, bit into a dumpling and raised his eyebrows at her—just for a second.

That spark in his eyes said everything.

Mavuika stabbed her noodles a little harder than necessary.

Lunch faded into quiet contentment as the plates emptied and laughter softened. The sun hung lazily above the clouds, casting golden light across the Jade Chamber, but the hour had come—Aether and Mavuika had to return to Natlan.

Aether stood, stretching his arms with a satisfied sigh. “Well, time to go.”

The secretaries stood as well, their smiles a mix of fondness and faint disappointment. Aether turned to them one by one, giving each a warm, lingering hug. “Thank you for all your help today. I’ll bring flowers next time too—something brighter than Glaze Lilies. Maybe Silk Flowers?”

Baishi could only nod, cheeks still pink. Baiwen’s voice wavered as she said goodbye. Baixiao looked like she was calculating how soon “next time” could realistically be. They left the dining hall reluctantly, casting one last glance at Aether, who gave them a playful wink on their way out.

Then came Ningguang. She rose with her usual grace, only for Aether to step into her space with a soft smile and arms open. She accepted the hug, expecting a gentlemanly embrace—only for his breath to graze her ear.

“When I stay over next,” Aether whispered, low and smooth, “I’ll hold you so tightly you won’t be able to breathe.”

Ningguang froze. Her eyes widened, her lips parted in surprise, but no words came. Aether was shorter, but he wielded his charm like a blade—precise, lethal, and utterly disarming. By the time she found her voice, he’d already stepped back, smirking. Her ears were burning crimson. “Charming boy,” she muttered, flustered.

Then came Mavuika. The two powerful women shared a hug laced with silent laughter and scheming. “Next time,” Ningguang whispered with a conspiratorial smile, “we dress to kill and see how he handles it.”

Mavuika nodded, her eyes gleaming. “We’ll knock the wind out of him. Together.”

Meanwhile, Paimon—already full to bursting—frantically waved both arms as they headed toward the teleport waypoint. “Bye-bye! Thank you for the food! I’ll miss you, unlimited lunch!”

“Come visit us in Natlan,” Mavuika called over her shoulder.

“Bring an appetite!” Aether added.

They stepped into the light, disappearing in a shimmer of golden energy.

The Jade Chamber quieted, but the warmth they left behind lingered long after.