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Mondstadt Arc
Be Fruitful and Multiply Act I Part 2
My Knight In Golden Honour
Started
Aether did his best to maintain a calm, collected stance as he noticed the hotel's receptionist throw him a funny look on his way out from the corner of his eye.
He began to wonder how thin or thick the walls were.
If so, had they been that loud based on the receptionist's reaction?
And how many people were in the hotel?
A warm blush grew on his cheeks from the rounds of speculation whizzing in his mind. He felt like burying himself somewhere hidden from view out of embarrassment.
He sighed. Nothing he can do about it now but suck it up and hope for the best-case scenario.
The last thing he needed was to get in trouble with Mondstadt's authorities for causing an unwanted ruckus mixed with public indecency.
Aether put aside his thoughts as he stepped out from the doorway of the hotel into the Sun's glowing warmth that instantly embraced his physical being.
Despite having passed out earlier, it was still Morning, although quite late. Time will soon make way for the Afternoon that was fast approaching.
Mondstadt was bustling with activity as usual. The streets were occupied by people from all walks of life as the land's soft breeze flowed calmly through the air and every corner among its citizens.
The wind was the lifeblood of this region under the guise of its Archon, Barbatos.
Or that had once been Aether's impression were it not for a certain drunken bard who chose to follow a path of retirement by drowning themselves in an inebriated mix of songs and liquor.
Talk about being lazy with their job.
But he did understand why its Archon had chosen not to interfere further after the ousting of the Lawrence clan from power long ago. Otherwise, Mondstadt wouldn't inherit its hard-earned values present in its history, culture, and people as it is today. They were free to decide for themselves what they wanted to do or who they want to become in their society.
Aether took his first steps in the open and felt his body ache a little from the unintended yet intimate tryst he had shared with Eula not long ago. All the effort and energy he expended had slightly taken its toll on him physically.
Not to mention he was still hungry despite having some nutritious 'breakfast'.
How he managed to endure with little energy somewhat surprises him. Perhaps the adrenaline from the build-up to the events most likely played a factor. He had been too focused primarily on her, his masculine instincts considering everything else to be secondary, the nature of lust and desire exempt.
'Did that all really happen or am I in some sort of dream?' Aether wondered inwardly, sceptical.
Aether inhaled deeply, still reminiscing the faint scent of fresh dandelions which Eula exuded as if she were still with him.
Her words she had uttered to him before he had passed out still rang faintly, but echoingly in his mind frequently.
'I love you, Aether. I'll always carry a piece of you with me.'
'I love you, Aether. I'll always carry a piece of you with me.'
'I love you, Aether. I'll always carry a piece of you with me.'
Yup. It was all real. No doubt.
The thought of recent events that had occurred left a faint blush on his cheeks. He was still puzzled, wondering how things had ended up the way they did.
Aether already knew why given Eula had somewhat confessed her feelings towards him. But it still felt surreal, yet authentic at the same time.
Even so, he didn't regret any of it. Rather, he was happy he had been there to lift her burdens with her even for a moment, to make her feel satisfied, and fulfil her needs as well as his.
Her warm smile was full of sincerity in contrast to her usual attitude. It was a rare moment to have witnessed, one that was worth protecting.
Suddenly, Aether's stomach grumbled loudly, interrupting his train of thought as his digestive organ begged for food.
Right.
Maybe he could do with some food this time for once if providence was still kind enough to leave him be in peace.
Speaking of food, he recalled his little companion, Paimon, whom he had left at the tavern throughout the whole night and the morning to take care of 'business'.
By the Archons.
How could he have forgotten?
Aether facepalmed, self-disappointed for his carelessness.
Food can wait. For now, he needed to find his companion.
Instinctively, Aether thought to head back to the Cat's Tail Tavern where they had last seen each other to see if she was still there.
Maybe Charles or someone present at the time could give him some clues to her last known whereabouts if she was already gone.
With his intent set, Aether rushed through the streets, dodging, and weaving through the mass of people concentrating variably amongst the vendor stalls and shops that were set up along the sides.
Shortly, he made it to the Cat's Tail Tavern and entered the premises to find the nostalgic relaxing atmosphere, and the usual handful of patrons, with Charles at work as usual.
"Hey, Charles," Aether greeted.
Charles flashed a grin. "Aether. What can I do for you?"
"Do you happen to know where Paimon is?"
Charles rubbed the base of his bearded chin thoughtfully. "Oh, your little fairy friend? No, can't say I do. She was here for a while last night snacking on the menu after you took that Lawrence lass away, waiting for you to come back before she left."
Aether frowned. "Did she say where she was going?"
"Haven't a clue. Never said anything else but I'd check it out with the Knights of Favonius at their headquarters. Maybe they can help you. They might've seen her," Charles suggested.
Aether hummed thoughtfully. They were within the city's walls and were generally patrolled by the Knights of Favonius around the clock, day, and night.
The chances of her being kidnapped or some other bizarre event were unlikely. Although, he was still anxious, not discounting the idea based on his previous experiences with the underhanded tactics of the Fatui.
"Alright. Thanks, Charles!"
"Woah! Wait up!" Charles called out. Aether turned around, confused. "Are you going to pay for the food last night? Your little friend asked to put it on the tab for you."
Aether chuckled nervously. "Ah, right. How much do I owe?"
"That'll be 50,000 mora. She sure can eat a lot for her size I'll give her that hahaha!"
Aether felt his heart drop as Charles revealed the cost, guffawing in amusement.
He sighed, unsurprised by Paimon's ever-growing gluttonous habits.
It wasn't much considering they had plenty of mora. But he was thrifty by nature, only spending earnestly when the situation necessarily called for it such as weapons upgrades or forging new equipment to aid in their adventures.
Still, the little pixie seemed to have gone all out on a buffet to her heart's content during his absence, much to his dismay compared to his lone meal which she also had the privilege of consuming also.
Paimon's ability to drain his pockets dry would surely be the death of him one day rather than the monsters or foes they encountered along the way on a near-daily basis in their adventures.
At the Knights of Favonius HQ…
Aether presently arrived at the Knights of Favonius headquarters and was cleared to enter by the guards outside.
He approached the door outside of Jean's office and knocked a few times.
"Enter!" came a muffled feminine voice.
With permission granted, he twisted the doorknob and set foot inside the well-organised room.
Jean perked up at the sight of the Traveller and flashed a smile. "Oh, Aether! What a surprise! It's been a while!"
"Grandmaster Jean," Aether greeted in return, bowing courteously.
Although he wasn't an official member of the Knights of Favonius, he felt compelled to abide by their traditions, given Jean had been the one to bestow him the title of Honorary Knight.
Jean blushed. "P-please. There's no need for the formalities. You can just call me Jean."
"Jean it is then," Aether acknowledged.
"Anyway, welcome back to Mondstadt. Is there something I can do for you?"
"I need help finding Paimon. Do you know if anyone has seen her?"
"Ah, Paimon? She's actually-"
Before Jean could finish her sentence, the door slammed open, revealing the little pixie. A clear expression of vexation was stamped on her features, pouting like a small child about to throw a tantrum.
"-here…"
"Aether/Paimon! Where have you been?!" the duo exclaimed in unison shock.
Paimon shook her head, irritated. "Wait! Paimon should be the one asking you that! Where have you been after you left me all alone and took off with vengeance girl with you last night?!"
Jean who'd been listening between the two's bickering, raised a brow. "Vengeance girl?"
"She's referring to Eula," Aether clarified. sighing.
"I see. Speaking of Eula, do you know where she is? She's supposed to report to me today."
The last he had seen Eula was before he left her at the hotel. The rest of her whereabouts after that were unknown to him. Though he assumed she was focused on her gallant responsibilities as part of the Knights of Favonius per usual.
He shook his head, deflecting Jean's question with some partial truth. "I don't. Sorry."
"But you were gone for a long time with her throughout the night!" Paimon exclaimed. Suddenly, her expression exchanged to one of suggestiveness. "Maybe there's something you're not telling us?"
"I don't know what you're talking about," Aether deadpanned.
Jean and Paimon stared at Aether with peculiar interest. But he maintained a calm, collected expression so as not to give anything away.
During the silent standoff, a knock was heard, and the door opened, revealing the Spindrift Knight herself as she sauntered into the room.
"Captain Eula, Reconnaissance Company, reporting for duty," Eula saluted. She turned to greet the travelling duo also present in the room. "Aether, Paimon."
Jean frowned, crossing her arms. "You're late. Where have you been?"
"Forgive my tardiness due to my… insobrieties last night."
"You're excused. But please try to be more responsible in your position," Jean sighed. "That aside, do you have anything to report on Amber's whereabouts?"
Aether perked up. "Amber?"
"Amber's been gone missing for almost a week now," Eula revealed, a slight sadness in her tone. "My company has also reported an increased activity of hilichurl movement lately on the outskirts of Mondstadt."
While Mondstadt universally detested the Lawrences, Eula had managed to form her own inner circle through the outgoing, bubbly Outrider and a few others, Aether and Paimon included.
"Anything else?" Jean motioned.
"One of my subordinates has confirmed the visual of a possible captive somewhere in Dadaupa Gorge. Unfortunately, they couldn't get close enough to identify the individual. A large number of hostile patrols in the area and night conditions prevented them from doing so.
"It's getting more dangerous out there as the situation rapidly changes," Jean muttered, a concerned expression on her features. "Captain, I'm assigning you to launch a rescue operation while we still have the window of opportunity. There's a chance it may or may not be Amber, but we're not leaving anyone out there in the hands of the enemy."
Eula nodded, acknowledging. "I shall inform the Reconnaissance Company immediately."
"No. I need your company to remain within the surrounding vicinity to keep a close eye on the hilichurls. If possible, engage and thin their ranks to reduce the risks of an attack on Mondstadt itself and the nearby settlements."
"If that's the case, may I suggest enlisting the assistance of the Honorary Knight? I feel his skills and expertise will be more than sufficient for the task."
All eyes fell on Aether, awaiting his response on the matter. Without hesitation, Aether readily nodded. He was willing to take the risk to save a life and bring them safely back home.
"I'm in."
"Paimon too!" Paimon chimed in excitedly, determined.
"Then it's decided. You'll be heading to the last known location in Dadaupa Gorge tonight, rescue the captive, and bring them back to safety.
Eula saluted, signalling her departure. "If there's nothing else, I shall take my leave now, Master Jean."
Jean nodded. "Very well. Dismissed."
As Eula left for the door, she looked over her shoulder, specifically at Aether.
"Aether?"
Aether tilted his head, raising his brow in confusion. He wondered why the Spindrift Knight had called his name to catch his attention.
"Thank you for taking the liberty of looking after me last night. Your hospitality was most… appreciated."
Jean and Paimon gazed at Aether in an assortment of shock, confusion, and curiosity. Eula grabbed the opportunity to flash him a playful smirk, winking.
Meanwhile, the Dandelion Knight and the little Pixie remained distracted, their gazes fixated on him throughout the moment, much to the dismay of the blushing Honorary Knight.
Although there was sincerity in the bluenette's words, Aether couldn't help but involuntarily blush faintly as he picked up on her hidden insinuations, reminded by the recent events from this morning.
"I-it was my… pleasure," Aether stuttered, rubbing his head bashfully.
Pleased with the blonde's response, Eula left the scene, enticingly swaying her curvaceous hips as she left the scene.
"Aether… did you do something that you weren't supposed to do?" Paimon said, hands on her waist.
Aether sighed, facepalming. "Again, I have no idea what you're talking about. It's not what you think."
Jean felt something tug at her chest from within as she observed Eula and Aether's interactions. While the Spindrift Knight had an infamous reputation for her namesake and vengeful attitude, it was notable to her that she had formed a bond with Aether among a few select individuals.
Not that it surprised her. Aether was a likeable individual who'd gone beyond his calling for the people of Mondstadt, without asking for anything in return.
Not to mention he was attractive but also noble, generous, and courageous. Traits that were honourably appealing in her eyes, given they were principles that she grew up to be educated with as a standard amongst the Gunnhildr family.
"…n."
But there was something enigmatic yet fascinating about the blonde that drew her to him; fed her eager curiosities. She felt like getting close to him and staking her claims like some princess and her knight in shining armour.
"…an."
Although she once was fascinated with a certain fiery Ragnvindr, those feelings would turn out to be fleeting; feelings he did not reciprocate. But over time, she grew to overcome them and instead, anchor a sense of admiration for the young man for his service, values, and deeds as an heir to his clan, a former Knight of Favonius, and especially, as a close associate to her family.
"…ean."
But for Aether? Her feelings for him were alien, yet much stronger that had grown to surpass her previous fondness in a short amount of time.
'It's nothing. Right? But why do I feel like this? But what is this feeling? Is it envy? How could that be?' Jean thought.
Jean's mind swirled with many questions. Her thoughts were unbecoming of her as the Acting Grandmaster of the Knights of Favonius. Did she feel jealous of one of her subordinates because she was overthinking?
Maybe.
Or maybe not.
But still, her womanly instincts were surely at play as if something wasn't right, clouding her rationality.
"Jean."
Aether's hand laid on her shoulder, a worried expression on his face as he had attempted to draw the Dandelion Knight out from the self-enclosed boundaries of her internal thoughts.
Jean blushed, realising what she had been thinking about, particularly the young blonde. The fabric of her clothing separated her skin from his touch, yet she could feel the benign softness of his palm.
His grip was almost gentle like a cloud, being careful not to cause her harm but to provide comfort. It sent a tingly yet familiar sensation she hadn't felt before in a while since her early days in the Knights of Favonius under the command of a younger Diluc.
Her grey-blue eyes met his golden piercing orbs, his gaze that made her melt in desire.
"Jean. Are you okay?" Aether asked, concerned.
"O-o-oh, y-yes. I-I'm okay. Probably just tired is all," Jean stammered, waving her hand dismissively.
"Paimon thinks you're working too hard again. Maybe you need to take a break," Paimon suggested, worried for the Gunnhildr.
"How about we take a walk outside for some fresh air?" Aether's stomach grumbled once again, reminding his need for food. "Maybe get some food too."
Paimon's eyes lit up excitedly and her eyes began to water at the mention of her favourite hobby: food. Her hunger knew no bounds.
"Yeah! Paimon's starting to get really hungry again," Paimon whined, patting her tummy.
Aether narrowed his eyes. "For your information, I had to pay a large sum of mora for your little buffet from last night while I was gone."
"That's because Paimon was so stressed waiting for you for a long-time last night! I'm supposed to be your trusty sidekick you know!" Paimon huffed.
Aether sweatdropped. "Yeah, but I do all the work anyway."
"Nuh-uh! Paimon may not be fighting and just flying, but I'm good at being morale support!" Paimon shot back.
"More like Emergency Food," he teased.
The little pixie flailed her tiny arms. "Paimon is not Emergency Food!"
"You will be if we don't get food anytime soon."
Jean chuckled, amused by the duo's comedic exchange. "Alright then. I suppose now's a good time. Lead the way."
At Sara's Good Hunter…
Jean, Paimon, and Aether arrived at Sara's Good Hunter. The three placed their order and sat down at one of the tables.
It wasn't long before Sara, Good Hunter's waitress, brought over their food. Paimon drooled at the sight of the feast, particularly her multiple servings of chicken mushroom skewers.
Aether took his first bite from his meal and felt the sweet, tender juices flow into his mouth until they struck the tip of his tongue and smothered his tastebuds. He swept away a tear of joy, satisfied he finally got to eat properly after being robbed of the opportunity for what felt like a long time.
Jean covered her mouth as she chewed her food, giggling at Aether's comical expression. "Is it really that good?"
"You have no idea," Aether mumbled mirthfully.
The trio continued to eat their food in silence, save for Paimon who continued to babble occasionally during her gluttonous gorge.
Shortly, Aether and Jean finished, much to their surprise since they expected Paimon to have finished ahead of them.
"How have you been since we last met?" Aether asked, breaking the ice.
"Oh, me?" Jean sighed. "My hands are tied as always. The problems we had here once, particularly Stormterror, have been a great help thanks to you. But things have only stacked up since you left."
"I see," Aether murmured meditatively. "And how're you taking your duties as the Acting Grandmaster so far?"
"Honestly, it's a lot to handle and manage on my own, but we're getting by. Barely. I'm not sure how Grandmaster Varka does it."
Jean paused for a moment, a tired expression on her features. Aether could tell how much her responsibilities were taking their toll on her. She deserved more credit than what it's worth.
"I hope Grandmaster Varka comes back soon. He still hasn't returned from his expedition. I don't think we'll last long without him."
Aether leaned forward and gently placed his hand on top of Jean's consolingly. "And I think you've done a great job so far."
Jean blushed, taken aback by the Traveller's unknowing advances. Paimon almost choked on her food, noticing as she was taken aback in shock by the events unfolding before her. Still, the little pixie continued to eat, albeit slowly, as she silently observed the two.
"B-but I'm not cut out for this role as Acting Grandmaster," Jean uttered doubtfully.
"No one is ready to be a leader at first. But leaders are forged through the baptism of fire. You displayed those qualities by putting Mondstadt and its people first, especially when we took on Stormterror together."
Jean gazed into the blonde's gilded eyes; his orbs ignited in the blaze of a blindingly strong will of determination she herself could not match. But she stared into them as if searching for the answer she wanted, whilst absorbing his words of wisdom.
What did she really feel?
As the Acting Grandmaster of the Knights of Favonius, the Traveller was merely a newcomer, a hero, someone who had gone above and beyond for Mondstadt, one that was worthy of the title of Honorary Knight. Nothing more.
But as a human being, a young woman full of emotions, she felt drawn to the Traveller. Her emotions recently began to flare when she was around him, once more clouding her coherence.
Her face felt hot as a blush appeared on her cheeks, her head slightly dizzy, as the rapid beat of her heart thumped against her chest.
What was the priority?
She was a young woman that held so much potential with more in store for her future. But she was also a maiden at heart who had her own needs and wants.
She felt conflicted inside between her emotions and obligations. But the once mysterious affection she held for Aether was gradually becoming more transparent to her.
Every action came with a price, but if it meant getting to taste the experience of what the other half of her wanted outside of her boundaries, even for a moment, she was willing to take the risk and accept the consequences.
Perhaps there was no harm in giving in to her emotions for once.
Was there?
Aether was worth taking the risk in her eyes.
He deserved to be rewarded.
And she was going to claim her opportunity.
At last, Jean made her decision as a genuine smile manifested on her lips, her hand underneath his palm clasping his with her own.
Aether woke up from his inertia, realising they were holding hands in the middle of public, a rather affectionate act reserved between lovers.
He blushed, embarrassed by his autonomous initiative, and tried to withdraw but Jean's grip remained anchored to his, unwilling to let go of him.
Did she care if others noticed?
No.
If Aether was with her, she felt happy and confident about herself.
With him.
A warm smile appeared on Jean's lips, replacing her previous downbeat sentiment. "I feel much better now. Thank you."
At the Knights of Favonius HQ…
After the trio had their meal, Aether and Paimon took the privilege of escorting Jean back to the Knights of Favonius headquarters before they parted ways.
It was only afternoon, but he could use some time for a little bit of rest and preparation in accompanying Eula on the rescue mission.
Hell, maybe even reflect on his recent experiences from his… rendezvous with a certain Knight.
Aether admit he couldn't get the bluenette out of his mind. It's not like he could just forget after what had happened between them.
He may never see her the way he used to before.
Not that it was a bad thing, but rather good, intriguing.
The experience had opened a new world of emotions within him, and to an extent, a different perspective of her.
They were feelings that had been intimate and special to him. He could only hope she felt the same way that he did.
And then there was that… what had happened back at Sara's Good Hunter with Jean.
His hand involuntarily squeezed, imagining Jean's hand that had once held his not long ago.
It made him feel warm and opened a new can of indescribable feelings, similar yet unique to the Gunnhildr.
Aether warped out of his musings just as they reached the entrance to the headquarters.
"Thank you for the meal and also for your time," Jean thanked appreciatively. "I feel much better than I did earlier."
Aether smiled. "Glad we could be of help"
Paimon flashed a grin and a thumbs up. "Nothing food and some fresh air can't fix!"
As two bade their farewell and were about to leave, Jean called out, stopping them in their tracks.
"Wait!
The duo turned around, confused.
A faint blush had imprinted itself on her cheeks, accompanied by the slight fidget of her fingers.
An unusual sign in her body language considering Jean was normally calm and collected regardless of the situation.
"Is it… okay if I can have a moment of your time?"
Aether nodded. "Sure. What for?"
"It's something I wanted to discuss in private…"
He raised his eyebrows, curious what the Dandelion Knight needed them for away from prying eyes and ears.
The two returned and began to follow Jean, but she held up a hand.
"…with Aether only."
Aether raised an eyebrow. He turned to look at Paimon, wondering what her reaction was. He expected his companion to react in some manner, normally one of worry or a tantrum without her inclusion.
'Hmm… I wonder what's going on between these two?' Paimon wondered suspiciously.
She mustered her brainpower, searching for a conclusion based on her observations earlier back at Good Hunter.
Then it struck her.
Aether disappeared throughout the night with Eula and never came back.
Eula's unusual attitude towards Aether back at Jean's office.
Jean and Aether held hands earlier when they went out to eat at Good Hunter.
And now, Jean asking Aether specifically for private time for some unknown reason.
Although Paimon wasn't completely sure, her gut instinct said otherwise.
She may be a fairy; small and young she could pass off as a child, but appearances could be deceiving. She was much more mature than the masses underestimated her to be.
It annoyed her at times to be poked fun of, but her traits gave her the advantage of covertly observing others.
Paimon wasn't attracted to Aether at all in any way. Rather, she admired him almost like a sibling. He was her companion. His sidekick. A friend. Partners.
Nevertheless, she was still a feminine being that still held her womanly instincts.
The writing was on the wall.
It was clear to Paimon what was going on as she began to connect the dots.
It saddened her what Aether was going through in his adventure to find and reunite with his sister. Yet, it had turned out that she was with the Abyss Order, the very enemy they were fighting against.
Why she was with them puzzled her.
But the revelation had clearly caused the Traveller more pain in his struggles.
Perhaps women like Jean including others who clearly held affections for the blonde from her knowledge could fill that void in his heart for the time being.
She wanted Aether to be happy.
He deserved that much.
During Paimon's internal monologue, Aether continued to gaze at his partner.
To Aether's astonishment, Paimon wasn't complaining which was unusually out of character for her. Instead, a small smirk had formed on her lips, causing him to narrow his eyes in suspicion.
'What's with her?' Aether wondered inwardly, confused.
Nevertheless, he shook it off for now and agreed without question, placing his faith in Jean. He didn't want to take up more of her precious time by making her wait.
Out of nowhere, Jean clasped Aether's hand, leaving him shocked, as she pulled him along with her.
Aether almost lost his balance but quickly recovered as she hurriedly led him inside the headquarters.
As he was strung along, he noticed there were no guards in the hallways which were strange to him since it was still in the Afternoon.
Where had they gone?
His train of thought was interrupted as they finally reached her office, prompting her to push him in first through the entrance.
"J-Jean… what's going on?" Aether huffed, panting.
As Aether worked to catch his breath, Jean hurriedly proceeded to lock the door to her office and rushed to close the blinds of the windows overlooking Mondstadt, before turning her attention back to him.
"Erm… I have a favour… to ask," Jean said hesitantly.
"I'd be more than happy to help. Just… ask next time. Okay?"
Jean, blushed, smiling sheepishly. "Right. Sorry, it's just… you could say it's… really urgent."
"Well… anything if it helps you."
The Dandelion Knight perked up.
Now was her opportunity.
"Anything?"
"Anything."
"Erm… so… I– erm… I want you to… to… take your… clothes off"
…
…
…
What ambience was left had disappeared as silence reigned and loomed over the two.
Aether struggled to process her request, but eventually, did a double-take, having fully absorbed what she had wanted him to do.
Oh no.
Aether began to sweat bullets, forming a hunch on what was going to happen.
He just felt it.
And most of the time, his gut feeling was right thanks to his countless experience from his adventure.
But it had not prepared him for these situations.
"W-what?! W-why?" Aether sputtered.
"Please just do it!" Jean pleaded tearfully, mixed with desperation.
Aether felt the world around him turn into a grey shade as he struggled to interpret the situation, he found himself in once more.
Not this again.
First, Eula.
Now, Jean too?!
What the HELL was going on?!
It's like he was some sort of rare item given by the Gods that was desired yet blessed only to a few.
But now that he thought about it, that statement was partially true were it not for a certain celestial being that ruled this world, blocking his and her sister's exit near the end.
Damn that Goddess!
Aether had now become the prey that was now cornered by his predator which was the beautiful Gunnhildr awaiting his response.
He noticed how she slightly trembled nervously in contrast to her composed attitude.
Aether's inner beast slowly woke from its slumber and began to take over him.
His eyes scanned her slender legs and curved waist that was perfectly defined by the tightness of her pants, before making his way up to her generous bosom that was covertly covered, yet enticingly beckoned him with the sight of the pair's size and softness.
Her face was reddened, and as he gazed into her grey-blue eyes, he glimpsed the identical longing desire that he had also seen in Eula's own sunset eyes.
There was no mistaking it.
But then Eula's confession echoed once more.
'I love you, Aether. I'll always carry a piece of you with me.'
He felt her words tug at his heart, causing doubt to fill his mind and extensively, affect his decision-making.
Was it a betrayal to the bluenette if he gave into Jean?
Perhaps not.
They weren't officially in a relationship or any sort of attachment.
But that didn't mean he didn't acknowledge her feelings.
Now, it was Jean who craved his attention, but he still cared about Eula equally just the same.
"Please… take off your clothing, Honorary Knight," Jean pleaded once more, her voice now husky.
The tone of her voice turned him on, causing the bulge in his pants to quiver to life.
Jean had forgone his name and instead, resorted to his honorary title of the Knights of Favonius.
Aether's mind began to fill with various fantasies that he wished to do with her.
No.
What he wanted to do to her.
To dominate and make her his.
However, he saw the flames of defiance in her grey-blue eyes that melted under his gaze, yet unrelated, still standing.
The same defiance he'd always seen in a certain bluenette.
Suddenly, Jean's image warped before his eyes, playing a mirage of Eula as he envisioned her once more.
Aether blinked and closed his eyes. He shook his head and he re-opened them to realise it had been Jean in front of him the whole time.
Jean distinctly reciprocated his own primal lust and desire, as the intimate connection between the two sparked and solidified.
Eventually, Aether began to cave in as his primal nature overtook him, allowing Jean to take control, but intervening only when the situation demanded it.
They both could already see where things were going.
And it was too late to go back at this point.
Might as well play along to the whims of her command.
"As you wish, Master Jean."
Aether proceeded to slowly discard his clothing, leaving his toned physique bare in all his glory for the Dandelion Knight to relish with her own eyes.
Jean blushed as she examined his bare body hungrily. She shifted her eyes towards his already hardened protracted member, twitching, and leaking precum from all the tense anticipation.
She took slow steps towards the Traveller, laying her hands on his shoulders as she leaned towards his ear.
"Consider what I'm about to give you as a reward for all the efforts you've done for the sake of Mondstadt and the Knights of Favonius," Jean whispered ravishingly.
Jean slowly descended, her fingers gliding smoothly across Aether's toned anatomy, from his shoulders to his abdominals, and finally to his waist.
Aether hissed reactively from her sensational touch, sending quivers of excitement throughout his body.
At last, Jean's head levelled with Aether's shaft. She eyed it carefully, taking in every detail of its girthy muscular texture, and the vein that ran up the length from the base to the head.
Her hand touched his member and slowly stroked it, eliciting a pleasured sigh from the blonde.
"I'm going to make you feel good~" Jean asserted enticingly.
The Dandelion Knight felt anxious from a lack of experience and knowledge. But her initial uneasiness began to gradually disappear, becoming more confident as she increased the pace of servicing the Honorary Knight.
She felt the thickness of his manhood with her hands; how soft its surface was, yet rock hard as it continued to leak precum with every stroke, oozing a somewhat unusual yet enchanting odour that blitzed her various senses like a bee's attraction to the scent of a flower's pollen.
She brushed her bangs to the side, kissed the tip of his phallus and licked his precum before swallowing his shaft in the warmth of her mouth.
The precum felt pleasant against her tastebuds in contrast to the unusual odour she had smelt not long ago, only making her crave more of the substance and its sweetness.
It only made her want to taste more of him.
His manhood felt hot much more than the temperature of her own mouth from all the excitement flowing into his sexual organ.
Aether shuddered as Jean's actions sent waves of pleasure to flow throughout his body, coiling around his mind.
"Hngh~" Aether moaned, stunned.
Jean took his moans as a sign of approval, turning her on and giving her a sense of satisfaction and self-assurance in her actions.
She gradually took in more of his length deeper, gagging and moving her mouth in a corkscrew while flicking the tip internally with her tongue which evoked louder reactions from the blonde.
"Mmmm~" Jean moaned, her mouth vibrating against his member.
The vocals of her mouth sent tremors along with every sensitive point of Aether's shaft, spouting ripples of excitement throughout his body.
Jean retracted her mouth from his manhood. She undressed her top clothing, revealing her unexpectedly sizeable bust that had been imprisoned by the white fabric of her bra, flaunting the long outline of her mouth-watering cleavage.
She blushed, unused to the feeling of undressing before a man, even if partially. Still, she carried on with her deeds, determined to conquer her self-consciousness out of love and eagerness for her partner.
Aether, on the other hand, stared cravingly, mesmerized by the dimensions and contours of Jean's breasts.
He was aware of how voluptuous Jean was. But what left him astonished was how she managed to fully conceal her buxom proportions in her tight outfit, even if it were somewhat subtle.
Not that he had been staring purposefully in the first place.
Damn his hormones!
To the untrained eye, there wasn't any noticeable difference when comparing Jean and Eula's busts. But the blonde could tell a very small distinction in terms of size and shape, the latter being larger by a small margin.
Either way, the small dissimilarities didn't bother him as both women were large-breasted yet unique in their own way in terms of physique and personality.
Besides, he had no preference over the other, but it was certainly a bonus.
What mattered to Aether the most was the character of the woman he was making love to.
While Aether was distracted in his internal considerations, Jean proceeded to slip his member between the softness of her cleavage, engulfing it whole.
The sudden action had taken him by shock as if he had been showered by cold water. But rather in his situation, Jean had showered him in between beneath the deep crevice of a sea of warm malleable flesh that surrounded his firm rod.
Jean pressed and tightened her breasts together with both hands. She started off slow, moving her contained bust vertically, undulating up and down along her lover's shaft.
Aether moaned delightfully, serving to boost Jean's assertiveness further. It only encouraged her determination to conquer her self-consciousness out of love and eagerness to please her partner.
As if it wasn't enough for the blonde, Jean licked the tip whenever the tip of his manhood resurfaced from the oceanic waves of flesh that was her cleavage.
She gazed charmingly into his soul with half-lidded eyes, bewitched by his own gold-coloured gaze while she licked his member relentlessly. She then swallowed it once more in the warmth of her mouth, combined with the softness of her breasts squeezing his shaft.
The Traveller's eyes rolled back; his body trembling weakly, forcing him to grip onto the table for support behind with both hands as his senses were peppered by the combined force multiplier from the new surge of physical satisfaction.
"Look how your thing's swallowed up fully between my chest," Jean commented, giggling. "Does that feel good, Honorary Knight~?"
Aether simply replied with a hushed groan, unable to respond due to Jean's stimulating activity against his manhood.
Jean smiled, taking his grunt as a positive consent. She quickened her actions, drawing more pleasing responses from her lover that gratified her.
She was too focused on her attacks, but she was getting turned on the by minute from the chorus of moans her partner was generating.
It was making her wet and excited.
This wasn't enough.
She wanted him.
To feel him.
All of him.
All over.
Inside her.
"Just let it all out~" Jean cooed.
Her actions. Her voice.
It invigorated his being.
Yet, he felt the need to give back in return, even if Jean was doing this all for him.
He was starting to feel the pressure building up in his balls, his body yearning for release.
But now would be too premature to give in too early.
The real event hasn't even started yet.
And he wasn't planning on capitulating anytime soon.
Aether struggled, mustering his courage amidst the fog of sexual leisure invading his perception and managed to slip out of the Dandelion Knight's warmth before it was too late.
"A-Aether? What are you– AH!" Jean yelped, startled.
The Traveller grunted as he picked up and hoisted Jean against his body, her legs wrapping around his abdomen and arms around his neck whilst she looked down at him, her grey-blue eyes meeting with his golden orbs.
No words were exchanged but their eyes did it all for them.
Both pairs relayed what they both wanted to say.
They wanted more of each other.
The heat within them began to arise, the contact of their skins only contributing to the rising temperature combined with the mellow sounds of their breaths.
Aether could feel his heart pounding as the blood flowed throughout his body, notably his manhood.
But what did Jean feel?
He leaned his ear into Jean's chest, listening to the beat of the rhythm for answers.
THUMP. THUMP. THUMP. THUMP. THUMP.
Her heart also drummed in concert to his own, fast, and loud that strongly desired the significant other.
Jean promptly lifted his chin and closed her eyes, planting her lips against his in a slow, sensual kiss.
Their limbs curled around each other, enclosed in a temperate bubble of emotions, and desires that they quickly became wholly engrossed in as they deposited their genuine affections into the act.
The room was filled with the sounds of heavy breathing, accompanied by moans of pleasure as their noises nuzzled and their lips smacked against each other.
Aether initiated the offensive and pushed his tongue inside Jean's mouth as a feint, testing her reactions. The move caught her by surprise, but she quickly recovered and fought back.
The Honorary Knight smirked and sprang her into the trap. He skillfully danced around the Acting Grandmaster's tongue, paving the way deeper into her mouth.
"Mmmm~!" Jean moaned loudly, caught by surprise.
The move both shocked and pleased the Dandelion Knight, but she wasn't going to give up easily to the Honorary Knight. To Aether's astonishment, Jean countered and pushed him back to the middle of a stalemate as their tongues sparred in a struggle for domination.
Aether noted internally how Jean was not only skilled with the sword, thanks to her upbringing and years of training but with her tongue as well.
The way she battled him in their intimacy was reminiscent of her fighting style, her methods, and techniques he had witnessed himself in combat multiple times.
Perhaps he may have met his match… for the time being.
And he enjoyed a challenge.
Aether took slow steps forward with Jean still straddled to his neck and waist and seated her down on the table's surface. Her arms and legs remained attached to his body, clutching him together and closer to her as they continued their romantic affair.
Eventually, the two parted from each other's lips, running out of breath as they panted laboriously to fill their lungs with fresh air.
Jean cupped Aether's cheek lovingly as their eyes met, entranced by every aspect about him.
"Oh, Aether~" Jean cooed softly.
Aether felt a pang of excitement as she said his name. He leaned forward and sowed small kisses down her neck and eventually, the curves of her breast.
Jean shivered, Aether's lips pecking all over the sensitive bare surface of her breast and finally, pulled down her bra, giving his mouth free access to suck on the pink tip.
"Hah!" Jean gasped, a fresh wave of pleasure striking her as Aether stimulated her sensitive nub.
He continually sucked her magnificent breast. His other hand flew up to her other orb of flesh and fiddled with it pleasantly.
"Ooooh~" Jean moaned; her mind gradually becoming saturated in ecstasy.
Aether rubbed his palm around the curves and across the surface of her bosom, occasionally squeezing and flicking her unfirm nipple to life skilfully with his fingers.
"Oh my… this is too… Ahhh… please suck on the other~" Jean begged enticingly.
Aether obliged and switched positions, his mouth on her other mammary while his free hand took the opportunity to grope the other.
While he fondled her chest, his stiff rod was prodding against the tight fabric of her white pants like a battering ram laying siege to the gates of a besieged fortress.
The tip of his phallus could only go so far yet had barely managed the effort to tease her that made her leak womanly juices below.
She imagined what would happen if her pants weren't in the way, her body aching for him as she envisioned her Honorary Knight claiming her chastity.
The thought made her blush a deep red, yet excited her and pushed on, certain it was what she wanted.
But also, what he wanted.
They were already this far.
Why go back now?
"You can take it off," Jean murmured, her eyes signalling to her pants which Aether's rod continuously jabbed against.
A red tint flared on Aether's face; unaware his member had been doing such a thing without his knowledge.
It's like it had a mind of its own.
But in a way, he couldn't help himself as the gorgeous Acting Grandmaster lay defenceless before him, beseeching him to carry out her command.
Without further reluctance, Aether pulled her pants off with difficulty due to the tightness that hugged her figure. Eventually, he managed to discard it over his shoulders and let it fall freely onto the floor, leaving Jean almost naked, barely covered by her white panties.
He leaned forward, resuming his activities on her breasts as his shaft recommenced its siege of the weakened gates of the thin white fabric which covered her wet entrance.
"I can feel how hard you are, Aether~" Jean muttered tantalizingly.
"I can't help myself before a beautiful maiden such as yourself," Aether replied, playing along with a seductive tone.
"Please… carry on. I want you to please me~" Jean cooed temptingly, emboldening him.
"With pleasure."
Aether dove back in and continued to make out with Jean, their lips clashing while his hand caressed her bust. His free hand flew down below and began to stroke the outer fabric that covered her nether region.
He could feel the bump of her nub against the fabric and circled his fingers over the sensitive part.
Jean shivered, her senses soaking in the latest wave of glee. Her breathing became laboured the more Aether gratified her, the lower undergarment becoming drenched in her maidenly fluids.
"Oooooh. That feels soooo good~" Jean whimpered alluringly.
Aether stopped, contriving an idea, much to the Dandelion Knight's consternation. He positioned his rod against the wet fabric and thrust gently, poking against the outline of her wet folds, his shaft begging for entrance inside her.
Excitement coursed through Jean's veins from the pleasure she was experiencing from the near-close contact with his manhood. The thought of her panties breaking and penetrating suddenly from his continuous jabbing against her soaking entrance, thrilled her.
Jean felt hazy, her vision becoming blurred as she felt pressure building down below from Aether's continuous teasing. It was unlike anything she had ever experienced. But whatever it was, she awaited the inevitable relief.
"I'm about to… I'm about to…" Jean huffed.
To her dismay, Aether halted his activity once more, eliciting a displeased pout from the Acting Grandmaster.
"Why did you stop?" Jean whined.
Aether kept silent, his penis gliding over the outlines of her the wet folds of her pussy, teasing her.
It somewhat irritated Jean as her moment of climax was interrupted, yet, realised how much she had been in control of Aether.
The Acting Grandmaster had become too overconfident and underestimated the Traveller. She had lost sight of the situation and discerned too late that he had fallen for his trap.
Fallen for him.
And now their positions had been reversed.
He was now in control.
And she was at his mercy.
She sighed defeatedly and met her lover's stare. He exuded confidence and the tell-tale signs of primal lust and desire. Yet, he remained restrained, handling the situation with ease, gentleness, and care unlike her who had lost sight throughout their affair.
It was too much.
"P-please… put it in me, Aether," Jean begged.
Aether smirked. "Are you sure that's what you want, Master Jean?"
The shape of his lips, his predatory gaze, and his overpowering scent melted Jean's venerable core, causing her to excitingly tremble submissively before her Honorary Knight.
"Y-yes… I want to feel all of you," she pulled him close, whispering into his ears seductively. "Feel all of you deep inside me~"
That was the last stroke.
What control he had left evaporated as the pure animalistic nature within him overwhelmed every fibre of his being.
Aether laid Jean down and spread her legs open, pulling aside the soaked fabric as he readily positioned his manhood outside her wet entrance.
He gently thrust forward, finally penetrating her maidenhood that reactively squeezed tightly around his shaft, melting him in her hotness as he claimed her virtue.
"Urk!" Jean flinched painfully, recoiling in a mix of shock, pain, and pleasure all at once.
Aether kissed Jean on the lips, trying his best to help relieve his lover's pain. Jean wrapped her arms and legs around him, distracted by her partner's endearment.
Shortly, the pain subsided and the two parted, barely attached to one another by a thin string of saliva.
"You can keep going now," Jean muttered, permitting him.
Aether nodded and resumed, moving his shaft inside her wet folds.
"Ungh~" Aether moaned, dazed by the familiar yet pleasing sensation.
A warm smile appeared on Jean's face, exploring his features while her hands caressed his toned physique.
"Does that feel good, my dear honourable Favonius Knight~?" Jean cooed lovingly.
Aether responded with a soft grunt, too enamoured with the overpowering sensations of pleasure as he continued to penetrate her pussy.
Jean's breasts swayed with each thrust, hypnotising him. She noticed the hunger in his eyes and brought his face close to suck on them.
"Ooooh. That's it, my lovely Knight. Just suck on them as much as you want~"
Aether took great pleasure in giving her pair the equal treatment it deserved. His tongue slobbered over the nipples, flicking, and rolling around them as one hand kneaded her ampleness like soft dough.
His other free hand wrapped around and anchored against her thigh, raising Jean's legs to level with Aether's head that giving him more room to plough deeper inside the Acting Grandmaster.
"Yes… yes… yesss! Faster… deeper, Aether~" Jean implored stimulatingly.
Aether increased his pace, vitalized by her moans. He simultaneously boosted the power of each thrust as his length and balls slammed against his partner just as she had requested.
Jean felt his manhood strike deep inside against her cervix, causing her eyes to roll back in bliss.
"I'm losing… my mind…" Jean panted, her breaths shortened by the constant elations mixed with her partner's relentless drive.
She felt the same pressure from earlier building up once again below, clouding her consciousness. Aether also felt a familiar force growing within that screamed for liberation from the confines of his crown jewels.
"A… Aet…Aether… I'm getting… getting … close," Jean panted rapidly, fatigued.
"I think… I am too…" Aether replied feebly.
"Then let's… finish this… together."
Jean cupped his face with both hands and pulled him close in a deep, intense kiss, inspiring Aether further to spend what energy he had left to the finish line as the crescendo of pressure built up within them.
Their bodies hugged and rubbed against each other tightly with each thrust, their warmth merging as the sounds of their heartbeats drummed loudly against their chests, accompanying the end to their carnal affairs.
"I'm about… to cum," Aether hissed.
"Go on. I want it all… all of you… inside me~" Jean purred.
Aether stopped momentarily and gave all the power he had left in the final thrust. The gates within his manhood opened, flooding his shaft with the essence of life.
"Mmmmmmm!~" the two lovers moaned in each other's mouths, lest they caused a ruckus that would've drawn unwanted attention.
Jean instinctively secured Aether against her, her legs and arms wrapping around him tightly, shuddering in excitement as she felt the warmth of his seed enter the depths of her maidenhood.
The two continued to engage in their passionate kiss as their climax continued. Aether pumped everything he could muster that was in store, while her warm innards squeezed every drop out of him.
At last, Aether slumped his head tiredly against Jean's chest, the two panting and sweating heavily while they recovered from their lovemaking.
Jean smiled affectionately and pulled him close, sharing another vehement kiss with Aether once more in their finale.
"I'm yours always, my Honorary Knight. I hope you can be mine and mine only."
Aether kept silent, too tired to respond or contemplate the fact he had made love to another woman beforehand. Fortunately, Jean took his tranquillity as a sign of affirmation as the two were exhausted to discuss the matter further.
Unbeknownst to them, an unknown entity had been eavesdropping from behind the other side of the doors on the couple's intimate privacy using a passive form of magic, despite the thick walls and the soundproofed room.
The undisclosed entity pouted, somewhat disappointed but was quickly replaced with a smirk.
"Fufufu. Oh my. I never knew you'd have it in you, Jean."
Date Published: Tuesday 10th May 2022
Words: 8814
AUTHOR's NOTE:
My my. I wonder who was listening in on Jean and Aether?
Also, regarding the concerns implicating Amber's captivity, rest assured it's definitely not what you would think it is. Certainly not into that sort of thing nor would I ever promote it since I have standards and a limit. It doesn't suit the project's genre either. Love and good vibes only.
And WOW! It's only been one chapter so far and we're already past 100 follows and faves? I'm surprised by the amount of support and positivity behind the project. Thank you very much to everyone here and I hope you enjoyed it so far. I'll do my best throughout this as I write and grow through this journey with you.
Please kindly share your thoughts and opinions in the reviews. Your feedback would greatly help. Thank you.
~MartianAce