Chapter 2 – Passionate Encounter And The Knight's Quests
"Hey."
Aether gave an awkward wave of his hand. Jean looked at him and blinked but absent mindedly waving back.
"She is here as Jean, not the Acting Grand Master. A Jean you would never see, even as an Honorary Knight."
"Well, it's a surprise alright. I never would have suspected you out of all the people in Mondstadt."
"Sorry."
Venti and Diluc were seated on one side of the table, while Jean was on the other one, an empty seat next to her. Aether pulled the chair back before sitting down next to her. They then went over what happened and Venti's plan with Jean, who carefully listened to the three men.
Diluc believed it would take a while to convince her, but to her complete shock the Acting Grand Master immediately accepted. Her loyalty to Dvalin as a member of the Four Winds showed as she shared her opinion and that the dragon could not be blamed. But it was even more surprising to see how much faith she had in the traveler. However, that was mainly because she was doing all of this privately as Jean, not the Acting Grand Master as her position would cause problems, mainly the Fatui.
"Luckily, I think I know where the Holy Lyre der Himmel is."
"Then let's go! Paimon needs to teach that pesky Fatui member a lesson!"
Chuckling, Aether got up before extending a hand to Jean. The blonde girl looked at him surprised but accepted his kindness, taking his hand with a slight blush. She was not used to be subject of such kindness, particularly not from a handsome young man.
"Something the matter Jean?"
"N-no?"
Following his gaze she noticed she kept a firm hold of his hand.
"I-I'm so sorry."
She let go of his hand but the man only chuckled at her with a gently smile.
"It's fine."
Jean no matter how mature and serious was still a young maiden and she couldn't help the blush on her face, much to the amusement of the others in the room.
'Such a bright smile. How unfair.'
.
The group of four, plus a non-combatant fairy, arrived at a stone wall outside of Mondstadt. Hidden in between two rocks, a crack lead into the natural landform. Following Diluc inside, the group headed in to find that the inside was fully furnished as if they had entered a building. Stone pillars supported the internal structure. A long stone path bridged over the lava and across the room, leading deeper into the hideout.
The inside though majestic was full of cracks and spider webs attesting to its old origin. And it didn't look like there were any Fatui as of now. Even so, they pushed forwards, meeting a couple of cryo slimes and other simple monsters that posed little threat to the battle group. It wasn't until they proceeded for another thirty minutes that they met the first human being of the hideout. A cowardly member of the Fatui.
The terrified man quickly gave up any information he had including the presence of Signora, one of the eleventh Harbingers. Diluc voiced her worries upon hearing that and hurried his pace. Their path was soon blocked by a massive gate, upon which opening it, it revealed a massive hall. Many smaller rooms were situated on each side with another gate at the opposite end but the most noticeable thing was the number of Fatui members.
What ensued from there was a massive battle. Hour after hour, the four cut down the countless soldiers of the Fatui who charged at them. While Jean's attack killed the Fatui, it only left slashes and gashes, unlike her 'gentle attacks', Diluc and the traveler cut all the way through their bodies. Slicing in half the many operator, severed limbs, upper torso meters apart from their lower bodies. They let their festering merciless nature show as they slaughtered their enemy.
Jean was initially startled but soon came to accept their fierce nature. Aether's change during the battle was the most shocking to the blonde woman, as she was used to his kind and caring smile, warmly looking at her as he selflessly offered his help to her.
'What am I thinking?'
Distracted by the figure of the traveler, she didn't notice as a Fatui charged at her with his knife.
"Watch out Jean!"
Aether appeared in front of her as his hand wrapped around her waist firmly while his other hand deflected the knife before impaling the Fatui in the neck.
"Are you okay?"
Jean looked at Aether's captivating golden orbs, mesmerized and unresponsive, the only reaction she had was a slight red blush and a slight nod as she felt his hand still on her waist. The scene was straight out of a fairy tale she had read as a child. Living out the experience she dreamt of day and night she couldn't help feeling flustered. It took her a few seconds before she regained her bearings.
"U-umm, I-I'm okay. Thank you Aehter."
Jean gifted him the sight of a wide genuine smile, one which conveyed her happiness and that he hadn't seen before. With a nod the traveler let the Acting Grand Master go before turning his attention to Diluc who just happened to finish off the last struggler.
"Let's proceed."
The four warriors plus the fairy moved deeper into the domain, passing the last gate that led to the room with a pedestal in the centre. On top of the pedestal was the Lyre, just waiting to be taken. But, just as they moved into the room, a squared portcullis came down, sealing the way to the pedestal.
"Where did you rats scurry out from."
A voice spoke before out of nowhere an agent of the Fatui appeared with a pop of black smoke.
"Signora is not going to tolerate this kind of interference in our affairs. So I'll deal with you, save her the trouble of having to deal with you herself."
Without further words being spoken, the battle started. Diluc was the first to charge in and swing with her great sword. In response the Fatui jumped back before rolling out of the way of Jean's blade. Leaving him no chance to counterattack, the agent looked up just in time to see Aether approaching at blinding speed. Making a split decision it used its ability to move away from its enemy, leaving red afterimages.
The agent glared defiantly at Aether and prepared his attack. With blinding speed, he charged forwards. But the golden world traveller was not only strong, but experienced as well. Letting his thousands of years old battle experience take over, he raised his sword and swung down with a perfectly timed attack. The two fighters were stun locked as their swords clashed, though the agent was also shocked that he could block an attack like that.
"I hope you're not forgetting who else is here."
The grin that was on the traveller's face made him remember. Looking right, left and behind. Jean, Diluc and Venti all gathered their energy to unleash their elemental skill on the Fatui agent. His eyes widened in shock but could do nothing as the pyro and anemo attacks converged on him. He screamed as his body was disintegrated and vanished.
"You okay Aether?"
Paimon worriedly looked at him.
"I'm fine Paimon."
The portcullis then pulled back up, letting Aether take the Lyre.
"Phew, the Lyre is finally back in good hands."
"Let's head back for now."
.
As soon as they got back to the tavern, Venti took to analysing the Holy Lyre. It had been over a millennia since the God had touched the divine instrument. A sense of nostalgia washed over him, memories of times long gone resurfacing to his mind.
"The pattern of the flowing wind carved on the rosewood … and the strings still feel cool to the touch too. Oh, the memories …"
Jean then asked the pressing question.
"Can we summon Dvalin?"
"Not quite yet. Though the instrument is not damaged, the thousand years have depleted its anemo power. You wouldn't be able play music fit for master Diluc's tavern as of right now, much less attract Dvalin's attention."
"Bards fight to get on the stage of my tavern. Don't make any assumptions."
Paimon stared at him incredulous.
"Does that even matter master Diluc? And you!"
She then turned to Venti.
"Did you just borrow the Holy Lyre to play music for drunkards to hear?"
"Ehe."
"EHE TE NANDAYO?!"
Paimon looked outraged as the bard seemed to be taking this as a joke.
"Anyways, we won't be able to call Dvalin like this. Luckily the string can be restored. You're up now outlander."
"I certainly have experienced many things, repairing the instrument would be possible. But the strings don't seem damaged."
"Relax! It's just that the intensity of the anemo power has greatly diminished. Luckily you can fix this with tears you got from Dvalin."
Trusting the bard Aether grabbed the lyre and dropped the tears on the strings. As he did that, the lyre glowed momentarily. When the light died down however, the lyre was no longer silver and oak wood brown. Instead it turned white and gold, truly mirroring what you'd expect a divine object to look like.
"This youthful glow."
Jean spoke as she watched the Holy Lyre with amazement.
"Praising yourself? Really?"
Hearing Paimon's question she immediately responded with a unamused tone.
"I was speaking about the Holy Lyre."
"Not that she would be wrong. Jean does have a youthful glow."
Had she heard that from anyone else, she would have just thanked them, but as the words came from Aether the knight couldn't help but blush. She didn't respond only twirling her hair in embarrassment at the praise.
"Well, with this the Holy Lyre won't lose power. That being said, it's not enough. We will need more tears."
Venti briefly mourned for Dvalin's suffering as he thought of his old friend's tears.
"This isn't something you can do alone. I'll mobilize the rest of the knights to help you with that. If we find any we'll leave them to you to purify."
"Heroes supporting each other and setting out on a journey together. How exciting!"
And back to being a bard was Venti. He offered to make a song to which Paimon whined if he could do anything else. The green clothed boy however proclaimed that he wouldn't be a bard if he couldn't do that.
"Hmph. You're so cheeky … you deserve an ugly nickname. Oh Paimon knows! From now on you are Tone-Deaf bard!"
The others either cringed or chuckled as they watched the exchange. While letting Venti deal with Paimon, the traveller went to the closest window to watch the starry sky. A painful reminder of his sister and the life he was kept away from.
"Are you okay Tr-Aether?"
"I'm fine. Just thinking about my sister."
"Ah yes. I heard about that from Amber. Journeying to find your sister. I'm sorry to hear that."
Jean looked as Aether wore a sad smile as he gazed at the stars. The two quietly leaned on the ledge of the window when Aether suddenly spoke again.
"It was a day just like this. Calm and peaceful. We were about to leave … when a God barred our path. It tore us away from each other. Our journey together ended abruptly. When I woke up she was nowhere to be seen and I … alone."
Jean couldn't say she understood completely but it wasn't like she didn't get the picture either. She too had a sister she was separated from. Their parents separated and so did the two siblings. Though they both met regularly and lived in Mondstadt, she remembered the pain and sadness. In contrast Aether faced the same event but on a much more severe and cruel scale. She could not begin to imagine the pain the boy before her felt.
'Where are you Lumine.'
He was searching the stars when a warmth enveloped his hand. Looking down he saw that Jean's hand had covered his own, gently grasping it to get his attention. A small comforting smile stared at him, the knight doing her best to provide her support.
Internally she was very happy. She got to know and learn more about the fascinating traveller. A side which he wouldn't show as the Honorary Knight, as the traveller or even as the hero of Mondstadt. Yes, he deserved his title for his actions so far. She felt sad for him yet glad he trusted her vowing to do her best to help him get through and she was sure that everyone else in Mondstadt would too.
"I promise you Aether. You will find your sister. I know you will."
Aether smiled hearing that and squeezed her hand back. A gesture which Jean appreciated.
"Thank you Jean."
.
Aether woke up the following morning with a bright smile and his body filled with energy. The first thing he'd do was to complete the daily commissions of the Guild. After all, they paid very well, not that he was in need of much money. Whatever he had gathered in the past millennia was still there after all, not that he would tell Paimon, otherwise she might end up running his funds dry with food requests.
He left the inn he was staying at when he ran into Lisa. Paimon was back at the inn as waking her up proved to be impossible, meaning it was only him. And it didn't take long for Lisa to notice her prey, all alone and vulnerable.
Aether felt a shiver down his spine when he saw the grin on her face and her eyes locking in on his figure. He couldn't run either, it would be rude after all and he had the feeling she would get retribution in the worst of ways.
"Ara, if it isn't my cutie."
As soon as she arrived she interlocked their arms together.
"What are you doing here? No Paimon either?"
"Well, I was going to go do some commissions and no, Paimon is home sleeping."
"Hmm. I see. Then how about I come with you? I'm sure I can help you out."
Aether couldn't help but blush a little as he felt her bust push into his arm.
"I guess I wouldn't mind."
"Good then let us not waste any more time."
.
Despite the teasing and jokes, Lisa turned out to be a gift from the heavens. Her electro power turned out to be pretty powerful and the hilichurl camp they had to clean out was destroyed in a matter of minutes with the combined power of the two.
"Thanks Lisa, you really helped me out today."
That however, turned out to be a mistake. A sly grin grew on her face when she heard the phrase.
"Ara, perhaps you could reward me for the contribution, after all I won't get paid by the Guild for this."
"Umm."
He gulped knowing he had just walked into her trap.
"Depends what you want."
The purple clothed girl instantly closed in on Aether, pushing him back until he was pinned between her and a tree, her body pressed against him, a hand on each side right beside his head to prevent his escape. Being half the way through the forest meant no one was around.
"Well, what if I said I wanted a kiss?"
Aether gulped, wondering why it was so hard to focus with her. He had been around plenty of beautiful girls and had many relationships during his long life, but Lisa had a unique charm to her. Closing his eyes, he planted a gentle kiss on her cheek, which sent a shiver down the mage's back.
"Who said it was on the cheek? What if I wanted you to give me a real kiss?"
Aether looked at her in surprise as she closed her eyes and waited for him to lean forward and fulfil her desire. He felt his heart thundering but what he didn't know was that Lisa was just as nervous. Something about attracted her and she wondered many times if she was being too bold, but she couldn't restrain herself when she was with him. Aether was the first time she had kissed, hugged or nibbled the ear of. He hadn't done that with Jean either.
Her doubts, however, were cleared when she felt Aether's body shift slightly as he leaned forward, a hand gently cupping her cheek. She couldn't see what he was doing but she definitely felt it. A warm and gentle pair of lips touching her own. Her hands slowly moved to the back of his neck and pulled him deeper into the kiss. Their embrace became tighter as Aether's hands went down to her waist before wrapping them around her.
Their kiss was slow and sensual yet so full of passion. Lisa who wished for years to find a partner to love and Aether's millennia old worth of restrained desire. The two kept kissing only briefly stopping to take a breath of air before going to attack each other's lips. Aether felt like getting a little more adventurous and prodded at her lips with his tongue. Lisa feeling vulnerable and submissive let Aether in and soon found herself melting as he showered her with love, his tongue swirling inside of her mouth, her tongue posing no resistance as she let him take control and pleasure her.
Before they knew it, the two had sat down on the soft green grass, Lisa sat on his laps, her legs wrapping around his waist as their hands explored one another's backs. Their tongues twirled and danced as they shared this blissful moment together with eyes closed to let their mind wander off. Aether couldn't get enough of her sweet taste and the scent of the roses that Lisa emanated. The softness of her body and the smooth lips that poured their love out to him.
It was amusing to see how meek and vulnerable she was compared to her usual attitude, her inexperience was clear. Deciding to get her back, he interrupted the exchange to drop chaste little kisses across her neck, collarbone before nibbling on her ear. His hands gently cupped her breasts, playing with them before sensually tracing down her curvaceous body to her ass and thigs. Lisa in response moaned and mewled in such erotic and cute ways that turned Aether on even more.
Feeling his lust grow he went back to attacking her lips, hungrily devouring her soft lips. One of his hands moved back to her bountiful chest while the other went to her thigh and ass. He expertly caressed her and groped her, bringing in a new wave of pleasure to Lisa who moaned even louder into their kiss. Through the clothes he kneaded and squeezed fully enjoying her body.
"Hmm~ Aether~"
The girl moaned out in between their kisses. Her eyes had formed hearts as the golden haired boy captured her heart and desire. She gently caressed his cheek before diving in for another kiss drawing out quiet moans out of Aether much to her pleasure. She held nothing back and let all of her love and passion into the searing kiss.
They spent minutes and hours repeating the simple action, their desire never burning out. The act of passion kept going as Aether began gently nibbling on her neck and collarbone, his hands fully grasping her generous mountains. His fingers sank into the soft flesh and even through the clothes he could feel their size spilling out of his hand, showing how big they were.
He simply wondered how large her boobs were if he were to remove the clothes, he estimated in the D range, but perhaps it was still a little early for that. From her boobs to her ass to her thighs, he got a feel of them all and he could say with certainty she had one of the most beautiful bodies he had seen.
He hadn't paid much attention before but her body was truly divine. Her thighs were thick and her ass soft, her waist was curvy and her body lithe and sexy. Its shape truly representing an hourglass. But another aspect he loved of the curvaceous woman was her melodious voice. He took particular joy in hearing her moans and the way she called out to him when he squeezed her tits.
When they finally did stop hours had passed, the sun dipping over the horizon being evidence of their unrestrained make out session. Aether looked at Lisa who was still sat on his laps but unlike him she was an absolute mess. Her hair and clothes were ruffled and uneven. Her face was flushed and her breath was hot and laboured, panting from the extreme experience. Aether felt even more turned on from the scene, particularly when he remembered her adorable little mewls, the cute way she begged for more and her sexy and throaty moans.
"Lisa, we should head back now."
She however, didn't hear or couldn't would be more precise. Taking matters in his hands, he cleaned her and made her presentable before picking her up bridal style and making his way back to Mondstadt. While walking he couldn't help but notice a couple of signs that served as evidence of their make out. Hickeys were strewn across her neck much to his embarrassment as he realized he might have let loose and went too far, if her nearly unconscious body, still blushing, wasn't enough proof of that already.
He felt a little conflicted from the sudden heated encounter. He hadn't held hands with a girl for more than a millennia, much less kissed or started a make out session, not that he regretted that. If Lumine had been here she would have joked that he could now add another girl to the list of first kisses he stole. He'd probably never hear the end of it if she discovers that he took Lisa's first kiss.
.
Aether reached the city gates with Lisa in her arms. She had woken up some time ago, during the way back. But the warmth she felt made her beg the traveller to keep on carrying her. With a gentle smile and a peck on her lips he agreed to carry her back. The two weren't exactly dating, but he supposed they could work towards that. It was a burst of uncontrolled emotions that had brought them closer together than ever before.
'To think that the first person I fell in love with and exchanged a kiss with was a traveller I met for less than a week.'
The situation was setting in for Lisa, but make no mistake, she didn't regret a single one of her actions. She just wished she had taken things a little slower, though the pleasure of kissing the golden haired man made her doubt whether the slow approach would have yielded the same results. Either way it didn't appear like Aether minded, if anything he enjoyed it a lot, which was all that mattered to the mage.
The feeling of his lips still dominated her thoughts but as she noticed she was approaching the gates, in the arms of the traveller, she did her best to take back control. She wanted to at least not appear looking like a mess, but she soon find out that the traveller had taken it all into account. She looked up at Aether who stared at her with a loving gaze which made it impossible to hold herself from locking her lips against his, rules and appearances be damned. In that moment she didn't care who saw or watched, luckily their secret was not to be found out, still too far away from the gate for anyone to notice.
"Careful now Lisa. We're nearing Mondstadt."
Aether replied with a chuckle, enjoying the warmth of her lips.
"I can't help when I with you cutie."
It really only dawned on her now as did the embarrassment set, but things suddenly got heated and totally out of control. It was hard to imagine how passionate they were with each other moments ago despite their short time together.
"I know."
Thirty more minutes, the two arrived at the gates, Swan and Lawrence rushed forwards when they saw the Honorary Knight carrying Lisa back.
"Are you two okay?"
"What happened to Lisa?"
Said librarian though was quick to calm them down, coming up with a quick excuse.
"Everything's okay. I just tried to impress my cutie here a little too hard and ended up getting tired."
The two guards exchanged confused looks but nodded. The two went back to their posts while Aether entered the city with Lisa. Being the gentleman he was he took her back home, dropping her off at the doorway to her place.
"Hmm, wanna come in?"
Aether chuckled but shook his head.
"There is no need to rush things Lisa. But thank you I did enjoy our time together. Though I'm not sure if I'm ready for a committed relationship."
Lisa showed him a gentle smile.
"It's fine, whether or not you take me as your girlfriend, whether you want go after other girls, as long as I get some of your love I'll be plenty happy and I'll be yours and only yours."
Aether was surprised by the daring declaration and while he felt it was a little unfair to her he decided to respect her choice.
"Very well."
"So this isn't a onetime thing, right cutie?"
"I suppose I can give you another chance to show me more."
He decided to tease her like she loved to do with him, to which he was met with a kiss that reflected all her love and passion before pulling back.
"Look forward to more my cutie."
"I will."
.
After leaving Lisa home he headed back to the inn and fell asleep exhausted. The following morning he woke up to see that his little companion was missing so he began looking for Paimon. However, it was to his surprise to see that she was neither at the inn nor at Good Hunter's. Not knowing where else to look he decided to head to the headquarters of the Knights of Favonius.
Lo and behold, as soon as he opened the door he was met with a worried Paimon pacing, or floating in this case, back and forth. The moment her eyes noticed his golden hair the little fairy immediately rushed into his chest, hugging it with her tiny hands.
"Aether, thank the Archons you are okay. Paimon was so worried when she woke up and you were nowhere to be found. I spent the entire day looking for you but fell asleep here at the headquarters."
Seeing the little fairy care so much warmed his heart.
"Sorry about that Paimon. No matter what I tried you wouldn't wake up."
Hearing that a blush sprouted on her face before sheepishly smiling.
"Oh. Paimon's sorry."
"It's fine. If anything I'm sorry for disappearing for an entire day. That and for not searching for you until today."
"Paimon doesn't mind as long as you are safe."
Just then Kaeya came walking down the stairs with a thoughtful look. His gaze showed that he was distracted as he mindlessly took steps forwards. His muttering definitely attested to his disturbed state not even noticing the traveller until his name was called out.
"Kaeya? What's wrong?"
"Thank the thousand winds! Your arrival must be the grace of the gods!"
Kaeya spoke dramatically, depicting him as an envoy of the Anemo Archon. Thing which creeped Paimon out. Kaeya soon had them follow him out, under the pretence of needing secrecy in order to discuss his concerns.
What followed was a, in Aether's personal opinion, ridiculous and absolutely unbelievable story. Apparently his grandfather was a pirate and he inherited his eyepatch. Paimon looked shocked and revealed how she didn't know eyepatches could be inherited.
'Poor foolish Paimon.'
He could only feel sorry as he knew that Paimon was bound to be tricked. However, the point that truly took over Paimon was the news of a treasure. Her greedy nature completely let Kaeya take advantage of the naïve girl. Paimon believed every word that came out of the sly captain's mouth, who talked about the Lost Arcadian Ruins and of a sword that granted unrivalled power, fallen in the sea, dropped by a God from Celestia.
He then went on with absurd story, saying his grandfather defeated a hydra, a silver haired banshee and a wicked abyss dragon. He proceeded to tell about treasure hoarders searching ruins nearby, causing him to fear for the sword, not wanting to imagine what would happen should they get their hands on it. Looking at him sceptically ended up with Kaeya winking at him. Apparently he was aware that Aether didn't believe him but knowing that Kaeya had the bigger picture in mind he decided to play along. Surely there was a good reason for the blown out story.
Kaeya then left Aether to deal with the ecstatic Paimon who was dying to find the treasure. The little fairy didn't hesitate to drag Aether to Cyrus, whom they had met previously after completing a brief extermination quest for him the day before. There Paimon asked the man about the Arcadian Ruins.
Every attempt she made to be secretive, silent and discrete ended with the exact opposite result. Aether had to hold his head as he felt a headache growing stronger, a disappointed sigh making its way out of his lips. Perhaps this was exactly why Kaeya had aimed for Paimon because she was terribly bad at keeping a secret. It was then that he realized that she was just as terrible as Venti.
She assured the traveller that all would be fine as long as she didn't give away the location, before asking for the ruins, completely giving away the answer. Needing to play along Aether reminded Paimon countless times about the need to be careful but Paimon was stubborn and she had a meticulous way of messing things up.
While Paimon and Cyrus conversed Aether's eyes glanced back and noticed a suspicious guy. He wore clothes no different than those of treasure hoarders, revealing to the blonde knight who Kaeya's target was. Kaeya did mention the treasure hoarders before, he just didn't expect them to be so close.
"Still no clues."
Paimon looked dejected after just a single failed attempt. Thus, she proposed to go see Kaeya for now. When they arrived at the headquarters the Cavalry Captain was expecting them at the entrance. His devious smirk caused Aether to shiver, he truly was a sly individual.
"I've sent someone to collate black market intel."
After revealing the existence of a contact being sent to meet them for intel on the ruins, Paimon quickly hurried the conversation, wanting to get her greedy little hands on the location as soon as possible. Paimon began floating away leaving Aether's gaze to linger for a moment on Kaeya before sighing and following his bizarre companion.
"Aren't you being too impatient Paimon?"
"Paimon isn't impatient, you just have to trust Paimon."
Trusting Paimon is how he now found himself at the entrance to the woods near Mondstadt, out of which came a girl running. Behind her, a group of hilichurls armed with clubs was chasing her. Wasting no to time, he jumped in to help her, slicing apart the monsters with ease.
"I shouldn't have helped him."
When Paimon who she was referring to however, she simply changed subject by thanking them for saving her.
"It's nothing he's a traveller, he has to deal with this stuff all the time."
"Traveller? I didn't think I'd be saved by the one I'm here to meet."
"You're the informant?"
"That's right. I'm Vina."
The girl then proceeded to give them the intel in the form of a riddle and a picture. Luckily with his knowledge and experience Aether figured it out in an instant.
"Still, I don't know how I could ever repay you for saving my life."
He didn't know if it was Lisa rubbing off on him but before he knew it he proposed an outrageous idea and his hand went to caress the cheek of the cute informant.
"How about a date?"
The girl in question blushed fiercely as she heard the proposition. The feeling of his warm hand making her fidget nervously.
"I-I guess, that would be fine with m-me. How about tonight in front of the Archon's statue?"
"That sounds okay."
"Then I'll see you later."
"After you were just attacked? Let me at least walk you back to Mondstadt."
Nervously, the girl accepted the proposal and followed the traveller as he led her back. Behind them Paimon looked shocked.
"Paimon didn't see that one coming."
.
Upon reaching the gates to the city, he let a blushing Vina head her own way while he decided to complete the riddle. The sooner this was completed the better, besides he kept feeling the stares of the treasure hoarders and it was starting to bother him.
Aether looked at the picture for a moment before locking his eyes on a windmill near the headquarters of the Knights of Favonius. Telling Paimon to follow him he arrived at the base of tall windmill and huffed before climbing his way up to the top. There he found a chest which contained mora, materials and a map with another riddle.
Reading the riddle, he easily guessed the necessity of a cryo user. When he was about to go ask Kaeya for his assistance, being the only cryo user he knew, he was vehemently denied by Paimon. The little fairy refused to get help from knight not wanting to see his smug smile when they requested his help.
With no choice left, he followed Paimon hoping she realized that he had no control over the cryo element. Several minutes later, plus the use of a teleport point, they arrived in Springvale. Following the map, they arrived at the spot that was marked with a cross. Just as he expected there were three cryo totems. Paimon stared at the totems before turning to Aether with a sheepish smile.
"Paimon's sorry."
Lucky for Paimon however, Aether was genius born out of several millennia of experience. Looking around he spotted a perfect substitute. A cryo slime. Cute little beings that are excessively aggressive. Very dangerous when in groups. As elemental beings they are also immune to a specific element depending on their species, cryo in this case.
He calmly walked up to the slime, that upon spotting the traveller, tried to attack him. Having gotten its attention he walked back to the cryo totems with a dozen slimes in tow. He then proceeded to stand in front of each totem before dodging last second to let the slimes hit the totem and activate it.
As all three totems lit up a chest appeared with a puff of smoke in the centre of the three cryo totems. He felt bad as he found them pretty adorable but he had no choice, so he slashed at the slimes ending their lives.
Meanwhile, Paimon took the liberty to open the chest inside which she found yet another map. The little fairy complained about how terrible the quality of the map was, but as soon as he saw the picture, Aether immediately recognized the location in his mental map of Teyvat.
"Let's go report to Kaeya."
"Paimon believes there is no need. Let's go for it. We need to get it before anyone else does! Like … like those treasure hoarders Kaeya told us about. Anyways, Paimon just wants to borrow the sword-"
She suddenly began waving her hands.
"No, you heard nothing! Paimon ah- Paimon just wants to see it. Definitely not to become super, mega powerful and do nothing but play. Hehe, let's save it for later. Arcadian treasure hunt here we come!"
Aether was unamused and watched in disbelief. Her already terrible lie began crumbling piece by piece until she just outright gave up on it. How could someone be so bad at lying. With a sigh and a shake of his head he simply played along with Paimon and led her to the ruins.
.
Aether and Paimon walked on the shores, the sun had just descended and the moon was rising up in the sky. Following his mental map, he reached the ruins, a domain hidden in rocky cliff like the Fatui hideout. Paimon could already be seen brimming with excitement, her eyes shining.
"These must be the Arcadian Ruins. Is it just me or are they a little plain? Oh! Paimon gets it! The perfect disguise is always in plain sight! Kaeya's grandpa sure is impressive. Hurry! The treasure's waiting for us!"
He sighed as he was forced forwards by Paimon. Taking a couple of steps towards the ruins he entered the location and just as he expected, he entered a domain. The space inside was like entering a different dimension.
When he opened his eyes he found himself on a stone path with railings that kept him from falling off the path into the azure mist that surrounded the entire area below the stone structure, making it impossible to know how far one could fall, and he was not about to find out.
He followed the only path forwards until he arrived a flight of stairs, at the top was a pyro archer hilichurl. Should he be shocked that a hilichurl was there? Probably not. In the end it didn't matter. The hilichurl was an enemy and he was barring his path. Without hesitation, he slashed at the monster's face and killed it before it could shoot its first fire arrow.
As he continued forwards he found a trap in the way. A weird mechanism that shot out fire in four directions, accompanied by a group of pyro slimes. Refusing to kill the adorable beings he used the spaces in between each flamethrower to get past, without injuring the slimes.
He then reached a large room with a cubical mechanism at the centre. Clicking the button on the cubical mechanism caused hilichurls to suddenly appear. Took by surprise, he immediately summoned his weapon and unleashed a gale of anemo tearing apart the first three hilichurls. Using his sword skills he deflected an arrow, stabbed a hilichurl, sliced through another and used his inhuman speed cut off the hands of the archer before piercing its neck.
The door glowed a light blue before the square on its surface twisted and opened. Paimon rushed ahead expecting heaps of gems, mountains of gold and a legendary sword to majestically await her. Only to find a completely empty room.
"Ugh … is this the end? Where is the treasure? Let's look around."
"Haha, I'll save you the trouble. How about you let me take over?"
Paimon looked shocked.
"We kept a low profile. How did word get out?"
Aether's eyebrow raised on its own when he heard Paimon's words.
"Hmph! As if I'll let you have it."
"You would be wise not to underestimate us. My gang is outside waiting for my orders. Just so you know, they are not as sociable."
"I'm sorry to rain on your parade. But your gang won't be participating in your plan."
Kaeya arrived with two knights behind him.
"If you'd like to ask why, you can go see them … in Mondstadt's prison. Or you could join them permanently."
"The knights?"
Paimon then accused him of trying to steal the treasure as if she didn't have the exact same thoughts just moments ago. That is when Kaeya revealed that the treasure didn't exist in the first place crushing Paimon's excitement.
"Hmph to think knights resorted to these kind of tactics."
"A thief has no right to criticize the methods of the Knights of Fav- what are you doing?"
The brash man tried to make a run for it only for a door to open and a ruin guard to appear. The large machine marched forwards, towering over the treasure hoarder. Seeing he was in danger he shamelessly called out to the knights to save him. After promising to confess Kaeya agreed to help him.
"You sure? It'd be much easier if you disposed of him now. No one will know either."
Kaeya was initially taken aback by Aether's suggestion but chuckled.
"It is a knight's job Aether."
"I guess."
"Ready then?"
Aether then raised his hand stopping Kaeya and the knights.
"Let me take care of this one."
Aether ran straight at the ruin guard and jumped with his fist charged. The ruin guard spotted him and turned, but it was too late as the punch struck its eye with earth shattering strength, blowing the head into pieces. Paimon, Kaeya, the knights and the treasure hoarder all stood with shocked looks and mouths hanging down low. With a heavy thud, the iron machine fell to the ground completely wrecked.
"Well. Umm … let us take this thief back."
"Sir yes sir. But what about …"
"Watch it, that's the honorary knight you're speaking to. And the reason why this arrest was possible. Besides, you saw how he dealt with the ruin guard."
"You're the honorary knight? Please excuse us for the rudeness!"
Aether just waved it off, not minding their attempt to arrest him.
"As expected of the honorary knight, immense strength and boundless mercy!"
Aether blinked as the two knights walked away with the prisoner. It was bound to start rumours.
'Oh man.'
"As expected of you Aether, you solved all the puzzles without a problem. I got to give it to Lisa, you definitely have wisdom and knowledge."
Paimon then ranted about the deception but when he revealed to the fairy that Aether was aware of the lie, she turned to her companion with a shocked look. The traveller made no excuse and just sheepishly looked away.
"Paimon's had it!"
With that Kaeya handed Aether monetary compensation for his work before excusing himself. Aether, now left alone in the domain, as Paimon floated away, decided to make his way back to meet Vina. He did have a date after all. Making use of the teleports he managed to arrive on time.
.
Vina arrived at the Archon statue, her eyes immediately found the traveller, sat on a bench. The moonlight shone on the man highlighting his beauty, completely entrancing the girl. With a thumping heart she approached her date.
"Hey."
When the golden orbs locked onto her she felt ready to faint. Aether too blushed a little seeing the girl, who had decided to dress differently from her usual outfit with a plain sundress. The two now exchanging shy smiles.
"Hey Vina. You look beautiful."
Vina expected Aether to be more straight forward and a bit of playboy, but he was unexpectedly shy and honest, which she appreciated a lot. Aether then offered his hand which she took happily before leading her to Good Hunter.
.
Vina and Aether sat on a bench, hands intertwined. They giggled and laughed as they shared stories and jokes with each other. Vina then leaned her head on Aether's shoulder, basking in the warmth and safety of his body allowed her to relax after today's hard work.
"Thank you Aether. I really needed this after today."
"It was my pleasure."
Before things began getting heated he revealed of his relationship with another girl, but to his surprise Vina didn't mind. Were all girls in Mondstadt so understanding? Lisa had the exact same reaction. Funny how Lumine always joked he would one day create a harem and he always denied it. But staying in Mondstadt any longer and Lumine's joke might become reality.
"Aether."
His attention was grabbed by Vina as she lifted her head and gazed in those magnificent golden eyes. Feeling a little daring she let her heart guide her actions and placed a quick chaste kiss on Aether's cheek. A good ending to their date.
"Thank you Aether I had a great time."
"Me too."
Unlike Lisa, their little moment hadn't evolved into a full out make out session but that just showed that the librarian was just unique. That did not mean that Vina had her own charm, which is why Aether enjoyed his time with her so much, but he was thankful it hadn't grown too heated and the date was kept normal, it was nice to have some simple moments to cuddle with someone. With this she was girl number two. Would the number of girls whose heart would be captured by the traveller increase? Time only would tell.
"Don't forget about me alright?"
"I won't."
.
"Paimon can't believe you knew and you didn't say anything."
The moment he got back his companion began complaining to him. She pouted, still not having gotten over his and Kaeya's lie. Though truthfully it was less about them lying and more about there not being any treasure.
He drowned out the obnoxious sound that was Paimon's voice as his head landed on the soft pillow. Not as soft as Lisa he had to note but definitely much softer than a rock. Finding himself in bed he couldn't help but relive the memories he spent with Lisa and Vina all the way until sleep took control.
.
"Wakey wakey."
Aether poked Paimon's cheek as she drooled, probably dreaming of food. The sun had just barely risen over the wall. But the little fairy companion would not stir from her slumber, but he really wanted to avoid the situation he had yesterday, so he picked the fairy up and carried her in his arms as he made his way to the Guild.
"Ad Astra Abyssoque!"
The receptionist greeted him like usual, giggling when she noticed the sleeping fairy. She gave him a list of four commissions for the day before Amber arrived, cheerily waving at Aether.
"Hey Aether!"
"Hi Amber."
The bunny girl took a moment to admire his bright smile before focusing her attention on Paimon's sleeping figure. Though she would deny if asked, she did feel a little envious seeing the fairy resting in the traveller's arms.
"Doing commissions? How about I help you?"
"You sure Amber? As the only outrider you've got to be pretty busy."
The girl however was insistent.
"It's fine, in turn you could help me with some of my work in turn."
"Sure."
With that the two set off with Paimon still asleep in Aether's arms. Their first target location was the headquarters of the Knights of Favonius. There Ellin, a girl who idolizes Jean and wishes to join the knights to become the next Grand Master, asks the traveller to help her train to become a better. Being something he had done countless times and owning battle skills that no one had seen before proved to be very effective when teach the young girl.
Aether noted that the girl was not only eager to learn and putting all her effort towards her goal, but she was a quick learner as well. Though the improvement was minimal it was still noticeable to the naked eye, proving as evidence of her will and hard work. He then spent the following hour instructing Ellin and sparring with her, while Amber sat on a bench nearby encouraging them both.
"Ugh!"
Ellin fell on her back as she was pushed back by Aether, who now towered over her, his hand extended to help her up.
"You did good Ellin."
"Thank you traveller. If it wasn't for your help I wouldn't have improved so much. I will keep your teachings in mind and work to improve even further."
With a nod and a wave the two knights alongside Paimon, who woke up while Aether was sparring, said goodbye to Ellin before leaving the city for their next commission.
"Springvale is the next location if I don't remember incorrectly."
"That's right Amber. We have to deliver supplies to the village there."
Visiting Swan by the gate, they gathered the supplies, easy thing for Aether thanks to his dimensional storage, and departed for Springvale.
"I still can't wrap my head around your storage method."
When Aether showed her the way he stored things and the quantity and size of the things he stored, she was left completely flabbergasted.
"It's a unique ability of mine."
"There is a lot of unique to you, you know?"
Aether only replied with a sheepish chuckle. Paimon however, agreed with Amber.
"Paimon also thinks there are a lot of unique things about Aether."
"Okay, okay enough about me. Why don't you tell me something about you instead Amber?"
The girl in question thought about it for a while before recounting her life story to Aether. From her childhood to her current self, mentioning interesting people like Eula, Collei, Noelle and Barbara, apparently sister of Acting Grand Master Jean.
.
"That is how I became the gliding champion of Mondstadt."
The trio had arrived in Springvale by the time she finished her story. The group dropped off the supplies by the village and set off to complete the other commissions. Seeing as the last two remaining commissions were far away and required to kill hilichurls and monsters, he decided it was a good time to test something.
"Amber hold onto my hand."
The girl blushed at the sudden request but gingerly grasped his hand, fingers intertwining. She looked flustered as the traveller closed his eyes and initiated a teleportation to the nearest available beacon. Suddenly, the world zoomed out and spun, soon turning white. The girl yelped and desperately clung to Aether with an arm around his waist her other hand still holding onto his own.
"Amber, it's fine."
The red clothed girl looked around to see they were in a completely different location than where they were moments ago. She stood there in amazement until she realised her compromising situation, her body snugly pushed up against Aether's own sturdy frame. Her arm tightly grasping his waist and her face an inch from his own. What made it worse was the smug grin on Paimon's face.
"A-Aether?! I-I'm sorry!"
She launched herself back with bright red blush covering her face. The traveller however, only chuckled at her adorable reaction. He certainly understood how Lisa felt now.
"It's okay Amber I don't mind."
The girl couldn't stop the blush on her face even through the fights against the hilichurls. Her eyes always trailed back to Aether, particularly focusing on his exposed abs. This distraction, however, cause her to miss a mitachurl who was rushing towards her with his blazing axe.
"Amber watch out!"
Aether launched his sword towards the mitachurl killing it as it struck the face before tacking Amber out of the way. The girl opened her eyes to see Aether on top of her, a worried look. Luckily there were no other monsters to take care of so Amber took advantage of the moment to stay like that for a while, one hand grasping his cheek.
"Amber?"
Instead of her usual lively smirk she sported a bright and gentle smile.
"Thank you Aether."
The man gasped, not expecting the sudden change in Amber as she stroked his cheek.
"No problem Amb."
She giggled at the nickname before he pulled himself up and extended his hand to her. She pouted slightly missing the position in which the two were moments ago and accepted his hand. Paimon then rushed to them asking if they're okay, during which Amber recovered her usual attitude.
.
The following hours Aether helped the red clothed girl to complete her patrols. Her duty turned out to be pretty boring however, as nothing of particular interest happened during the patrols around the outskirts of the city. Seeing as her work was done they decided to return to the city. The two walked past the gates of Mondstadt and stopped briefly to discuss what to do.
"Thank you for saving me Aether."
"No problem. Just be careful next time."
"Hehe, careful now. Who knows maybe I'll be the one saving you next time."
"Is that so? Perhaps, if that were to happen, I could rewards you with something special?"
That caused the peppy girl's eyebrows quirked.
"Like what?"
"I wonder what it is Amb."
She pouted as Aether teased, reminding her far too much of Lisa. That quickly prompted her to wonder if something happened between the two, but her thoughts were sent haywire when the golden haired man smirked and leaned forwards. Too late did she realized that his face was right in front of hers before he turned slightly and softly pressed his lips against her cheek, the kiss only interrupting due to Amber reeling back in embarrassment.
"Haha, look forwards to more, my cute little bunny."
He sexily whispered in her ear before disappearing with Paimon to turn in the commissions. Amber on the other hand, was left standing there frozen like a statue, her face flaring as she felt the heat rush to her cheeks.
'Damn that cheeky traveller.'
.
"Hey Katheryne."
The guild receptionist greeted him as usual before handing him the rewards of his hard work. He did notice how her gaze lingered on him for a little longer than usual, causing him to wonder if everything is okay.
"O-oh sorry, please don't mind me."
"Are you sure? If there is something on your mind you can talk to me about it."
She felt touched by his caring attitude and faltered before deciding that he was a trustworthy individual, but she couldn't bring herself to drag him in the problem that plagued her mind.
"Well … no, it's nothing."
Aether didn't look convinced but decided to accept her decision for now.
"Then I'll see you around."
.
The following morning Aether and Paimon woke up and decided to take a jog around the city, well the blonde man did, Paimon simply accompanied him by floating. Without knowing it, the path of their jog ended up taking him to the statue of the Archon where he spotted Amber. Feeling a surge of naughtiness he snuck up behind the outrider. With stealthy hands he wrapped his arms around her waist and hugged her from behind, whispering her name in her ear, action which was accompanied with a light blow on her ear.
"Hya!"
She would've jumped if not for Aether holding her. A shiver ran down her back at the close proximity and the gentle wind tickling her ear.
"A-Aether."
Her blush grew as bright as her clothes. Not only were they in public in front of many citizens, but their compromising position also reminded her of yesterday and the sly tease that was Aether. However, as she responded to the greeting she made no attempt to move or break free of the hold, only leaning further into the man behind her. His breath tickled her exposed nape as his hand warmly rested over her stomach.
But there was a more pressing issue so forcing her mind to focus she turned around, a rookie mistake she noted. She stood mere inches apart from his face, still tightly embraced by the blonde traveller. With a burst of courage she forced herself to speak.
With a blush and eyes completely enraptured by Aether's golden pair of orbs she told him about the need of a license in order to glide inside of Mondstadt. With a shy face and the twirling of her fingers, she offered to be his instructor to which he happily agreed. She had full faith that he'd ace the examination anyways.
'I'm growing too bold. Damn Lisa, she's rubbing off too much on me.'
Amber then handed a book to the traveller. A gliding manual which he had to read and get familiarized with. He pecked her cheek again before taking the manual while Amber was left stuttering and blushing.
"F-find me at the temple of the L-Lion when y-you're d-d-done."
The girl ran off while Aether began read the manual. A manual which told the story of how a pair of birds learnt to fly from the Anemo Archon. The lesson being that what they missed was courage. Through courage they became the first birds to learn how to fly.
"Is this how manuals are written in Mondstadt? Paimon finds it weird."
"Well, let's go find Amber."
.
Using his teleportation ability he travelled to the temple in an instant. There he spotted Amber on a nearby cliff waiting for him. He quickly climbed his way and made his way to her, who appeared to be deep in thought, probably because of the teasing earlier.
"Amber?"
"Oh! A-Aether, sorry I was lost in thoughts."
'About you.'
But she wouldn't say that aloud.
"Did you read through the manual."
Amber then began ranting about how boring the manual is, pleading them not to tell Jean. Paimon however, argued that the story was pretty interesting. Amber agreed but when she told them of the story of a take-off through an anemo slime bursting Paimon interrupted her to recount the story of the 'bird who wanted to learn how to fly.' As the fairy eloquently put it. The confusion on the outrider's face was clear as day. Asking to see the book, Aether handed her the manual. Upon reading it her eyes widened in shock.
"Oh shoot. This is the fairy tale I used to read as a child. Sorry about that I must have mixed the manual and the story book up. I'm really sorry."
Aether waved his hand as the girl began apologizing.
"It's fine Amber I don't mind. The story was really interesting anyways."
She sighed out in relief appreciating his kindness.
"Maybe deep down inside the fairy tale is what truly taught me to learn how to glide. 'What you lacked was not a strong wind. It's courage that allowed you to become the first flying birds in the world.' That is what gave me the courage to glide, be an outrider and to become the gliding champion of Mondstadt."
Aether and Paimon were amazed at her resolve which embarrassed her and drew their attention back to the exam.
"Okay then. Just follow the route and glide like you always have."
Aether then proceeded to followed the path, first in Falcon Coast, then in Mondstadt. He followed the wind currents and glided over the city, getting all the checkpoints Amber had left when he was stopped by a knight.
Otto, a member of the Knights of Favonius, stopped him and asked for his gliding license. Aether explained he was in the process of going through an examination for it, but the knight didn't seem convinced until Amber came to his rescue. She backed up his story and revealed his identity as the Honorary Knight.
"Honorary Knight? Apologies for the rudeness. The Knights just received reports from the sisters at the cathedral that Raptor was sighted gliding in this area. I mistook the Honorary Knight for an accomplice."
Otto then explained Raptor's identity and their failed attempt to capture, resulting in the loss of a precious artifact. Luckily the sisters had marked the artifact with elemental magic meaning Aether could easily track it, thing he made sure to mention to the two Knights.
Amber on the other hand took that as a challenge. As the gliding champion of Mondstadt and an outrider of the Knight of Favonius she could not allow this raptor guy to get away with his mischief. Thus came the decision to volunteer herself to catch the criminal.
Otto then revealed he was last seen around Springvale, bringing the trio back to the village they had visited the day before. Though their examination had been suddenly interrupted Amber promised the traveller to speak to Jean to get him a license.
"Let's go catch him."
.
"There must be some clues left here. Aether you said you can use elemental sight, right?"
"That's right."
Focusing his mind, the world around him was turned grey with only elemental energies maintaining a colour which corresponded to their respective element. Seeing traces of anemo he began following them with Amber and Paimon in tow.
Over the next thirty minutes, the three found many pieces of cloth and metal. Amber believed that they were remains of a wind glider, suggesting that Raptor's glider had broken. Before any more assumptions could be made a scream attracted their attention, followed by a cry for help.
"Let's go Aether!"
They rushed towards the source of the sound, finding a civilian cower as he was surrounded by a group of hilichurls. Amber initiated the attack, releasing an arrow that hit the a hilichurl in the chest. Aether followed it up with a single swipe of his blade, killing the remaining two hilichurls.
There the civilian presented himself as Farah, a fruit vendor. He explained how a small hilichurl camp was stirred by a man who crashed right in the centre of it. Apparently he was carrying a heavy object causing his wind glider to break. Though most camps had been exterminated by the Knights of Favonius and hilichurls seldom ventured close to the village in small numbers, the disturbance caused by the man falling in their camp stirred them up.
Enraged by the man, they chased him all the way out to the road, normally a safe passage for merchants. The unfortunate fruit vendor as he was used as a distraction. His caravan was destroyed but luckily managed to make a run for it before he was saved by the trio. He then proceeded to curse the man, prompting Amber to promise him to deal with the man that caused all of this and have the knights clear out the hilichurls.
Farah pointed them towards the last location he had been seen at. Following the path, a group of treasure hoarders suddenly ambushed them. With a yelp Paimon vanished leaving Aether and Amber to deal with them. Amber aimed for their shoulders and legs, while Aether refrained from using his sword. As much as he didn't have a problem with killing them he was sure Amber would like to take them alive, so he used his fists and kicks to knock out the ragtag bandits.
It didn't take long for them to reach their hideout. A domain filled with hilichurls. Seriously what was with people and domains in Teyvat. Seeing the many enemies Amber suddenly brought up their examination for the gliding license.
"Let us make this your final stage of the examination."
She then handed him several spherical red objects.
"These are bombs made by yours truly. Gotta thank Klee for the help."
"Who?"
"Ah d-don't worry about that. It's a story for another day."
Deciding to not question her any further he unfurled his wings to fly over the hilichurls, dropping the bombs from an altitude. The hilichurls archers tried their best to shoot the traveller down, but they stood no chance as Aether dropped bomb after bomb.
Amber and Aether kept their steady pace, clearing out the entire domain until they reached the end of the path. The bridge ahead had broken, leaving a path that lead straight to a steep fall. On the opposite side, on the building across the void, Raptor laughed at Amber.
"Watch it you'll be sorry when I arrest you!"
"Calm down Amber."
"Y-you're right."
Amber then decided to glide across, stating that as the champion of Mondstadt then there was no way she wouldn't be able to do it when a criminal like Raptor made it. Said thief then ridiculed the outrider saying she'd have a higher chance to survive if she were to jump off the Anemo Archon statue without a glider. However, that caused Aether to begin suspecting Raptor. He sounded desperate to keep Amber from jumping across.
Amber then brought up the story from the fairy tale she had mistakenly given to him and Paimon. She recounted how flight was the reward for the courage they had when they plunged into the canyon. With that she made the decision to attempt to glide across. Hearing that Raptor began sounding even more desperate.
Aether was sure something was amiss. Without hesitating he jumped right behind Amber and followed her with his glider extended. Just as it looked like they were going to fall a wind current suddenly shot them up. Paimon was ecstatic as the duo safely landed and easily delt with Raptor and his fellow treasure hoarders.
With Raptor captured, the duo gathered the artifact and headed back to Mondstadt. It was on their way back that Aether and Paimon found out about Amber's tendency to get her license revoked. The story got Aether to stifle a giggle, causing Amber to pout.
"Anyways, once we get back I'll go deliver these troublemakers to Jean. Just wait for me at the cathedral I'll meet you there after I get your license."
.
Aether stood in front of the cathedral waiting for Amber to return the artifact to the church. He heard the door creak open and Amber's chirpy voice calling out his name. The girl ran up to him and presented him a small card.
"There you go. This is your license. You are now legally allowed to glide around but do be careful."
Aether gratefully accepted the card with his trademark smile drawing a slight blush out of Amber. Said girl then began fidgeting.
"What's the matter?"
"W-well. I did good back there, right?"
"Yes?"
"Are you proud?"
Her blush gradually became brighter and brighter.
"Yes, I am proud of you."
"T-then … I mean it's not like I'm expecting a reward or anything."
Aether felt his heart thump but decided to tease her a little.
"Umm, perhaps if you say the special word, I might reward you."
The outrider's amber eyes lifted from the ground and focused on his golden ones. She decided to interpret the meaning of taking flight through courage on a more metaphorical level. To let all her pent up feelings out for the traveller to see. So, with a burst of passion, bolstered by her courage, and a crimson face she confessed her feelings.
"I-I l-love-"
"I what? Sorry I didn't hear you."
"I … I love you Aether!"
~To Be Continued
Hey, hopefully you enjoyed thus far.
I was wondering if I should genderbend someone else.
Also in case some are wondering I will NOT be pairing Aether with Klee, Qiqi and Diona or any loli except Kusanali, I will make her grow back into her adult form before pairing her with Aether. NO LOLI ACTION.
As always if you have questions then review or PM. I will answer any questions you have as best as I can.