Posters lined Nozomis' room as she squeezed any books that were left into another suitcase. Many copies of 'They Were Roommates' lay on the floor, wrapped in their protective wrappings and a promotional sample of a re-edition of a manga.

Assignments were laid stacked on her writing desk. Itineraries from the past two years alongside letters of current grades landed on the floor as she quickly rushed past and took a seat. She held her head in her hands, her forehead sweating.

A breeze brought relief, a cool change in Sumerus' scorching climate.

"Did Lady Guuji have to make the event on a weekend during the first semester? I swear this is the first year but way more pressure." She placed a book inside a box. "I still don't get how people can work in weather like this."

Nozomi turned around as Kaveh walked through. She smiled at him as he shuffled copies of the light novels aside and took a seat. To her, he didn't look as tired as he usually did after work.

"I know it's a mess in here, I'll clean it up once the book signing event is over." She sighed. "How have you been?"

"To be honest I'd rather just stay inside for the day. I can't stand the heat for long periods of time." Kaveh said exasperated. "Oh yeah, you have the book signing event. You're not carrying all of this are you?"

"Honestly, it's what I'll have to do." Nozomis shoulders slumped. "You and me both, you want to grab a drink before I drown in signatures tomorrow?"

Kaveh shook his head. "Usually I'd say yes, but as you've said you'll be busy tomorrow… how about I help you carry these over. I'm free for the weekend."

"Oh, I… if it isn't too much trouble? You sure?"

"Yes, of course!" He leaned forward. "Nozomi, you can ask for help from me anytime, it wouldn't bother me. You've always done the cooking whenever I'm not home and that helps a bunch."

Nozomi walked over and sat next to Kaveh.

"You're making me blush, you always have something nice to say to me. I've always appreciated that about you."

"I uh… well why wouldn't I? You're very cute…" He turned his back. "Having you here has always been nice. Anyhow, how are you doing at work? I heard Alhaitham has finally let you file the applications on your own now."

The side of Nozomis mouth twitched, a picture in her mind of many applications and archives being approved or rejected. While Alhaitham had advised being selective about who makes it through, she couldn't help but let some researchers slide through the process. All of which Alhaitham had scolded her once he found out.

"You being kind to those scholars isn't helping your work, or mine. If you want to work full-time as a Scribe when you graduate, you need to be more firm. It works for me every time."

"I think I need to re-evaluate my entire personality… it's hard rejecting so many scholars' thesis and their hard work. He has a point though… I'm kind of a pushover so, I need to learn from him as an example."

Kaveh folded his arms and gave a sympathetic smile.

"For once I have to agree. Not everyone here is going to make it as researchers. Look at it this way, it doesn't stop them from re-applying again." His index finger point up. "Though please keep your personality as it is. I don't want another Alhaitham around the house."

Nozomi nodded.

"On the bright side, ever since I've learned how to use my vision, I can now file applications way faster. He said it helps whenever he's on the next shift because he can take his tim- I mean so he can go over any details that I've missed eh?" She clutched her brooch. "You know maybe I should ask him if he could help carry some of these boxes?"

Kaveh gave a look Nozomi knew too well and tried to reassure them that Alhaitham wasn't just using her work ethic for his own gain.

"Look he's been pretty supportive regardless… he just has a funny way of showing it." She laughed nervously. "He… makes sure I'm calm and collected rather than anxious."

"Hah, Alhaitham being supportive… I know he has a caring side and he knows perfectly well how to show it! He just doesn't and it really irritates me. Would be nice if he really did care." He picked up a book out of the box. "Anyway, he'll probably just come up with an excuse to not help out. Something about meetings or needing more time to himself, the usual."

"You know you're sounding very much like the books I've published. That you secretly hope Alhaitham likes you and that you care but because you both mirror each other it's hard to say that."

"Oh my god… your books certainly do a better job at resolving our issues than in real life. Though I need to ask… why am I the bottom and Alhaitham is the dominant one?"

"Because it's funny and I can't imagine otherwise." Nozomis stared into the distance. "His hands are large enough for spanking and you have very adorable qualities that make for being submissive!"

Kaveh facepalmed and shook his head.

"You Yaoi novelists are scary, it's only been two years and you've already learned about what BDSM is… just don't write it poorly like some other authors do. Also, you just called me adorable, does that mean hypothetically you'd be a mistress too?" Kaveh teased. "Have you ever asked yourself how you'd be in these situations?"

Nozomi placed her hands on her knees, twiddling her thumbs. How could she explain that on most evenings she had to place herself in Alhaithams perspective while writing?

"Never you mind… let's just pack these boxes and ask Alhaitham whether he can help tomorrow." Nozomi stuttered. "Yes… I have thought about my position in BDSM and I'd say it's a work in progress. Not that I have anyone to practice impact play with."

Kaveh bent over laughing, trying to stand up. Nozomi grumbled as she helped him up.

"You can always ask me?" He nudged her. "Being around Alhaitham has probably taught you how to be firmer."

Nozomi nudged him back and then started to make her way downstairs.

"No way! Also, I was already firm when I was in Inazuma! Don't make me write about you having a furniture fetish for Alhaitham… I'll do it!" Nozomi threatened. "I'll write about you being a wood carving footrest."

"Urgh I'd better be a nice-looking footrest! Though Alhaitham hasn't been buying much furniture it's frightening… not that I'd want to be a footrest for him anyway!" Kaveh mumbled then shivered. "I hope I didn't give Nozomi more ideas… the candle wax scenes were enough as it is."

*

"No." Alhaitham continued to read. "I'm busy."

"Told you." Kaveh shrugged. "He'd rather spend all day reading his stupid books than breathe fresh air. He's probably allergic by now."

Nozomi pleaded again, and Alhaitham put his book down. She felt him look her up and down.

"Kaveh, by that logic I'd say you breathe too much air that it suffocates your brain. I'd say the complete opposite is true for you, you're allergic to the thought of being alone… I see you with Nozomi all the time like a lost puppy."

Nozomi looked at Kavehs face. His face was as red as the Pyro slimes she had used her vision on.

"First of all, what does hanging out with Nozomi have anything to do with us asking for help carrying these boxes? I thought you liked books." Kaveh huffed. "Second, at least I have friends I can hang out with!"

Alhaitham tossed his book and glared at Kaveh.

"Yes, I like books. Do I like carrying boxes of them? No, so understand the difference in my schedule versus what I'd actually like to do." He turned to Nozomi. "I'd say you two are close to dating more than actual friends."

Nozomi felt as if her head was pierced with an arrow while Kaveh started to fumble over his words.

"Again we aren't dating! What… don't tell me you're actually jealous? Maybe Nozomi's writing was based on facts… are you sure you don't have anything to admit to me? I know I'm gorgeous but you're not my type."

"As much as her fans and yourself wish, you're not my type either." Alhaitham folded his legs. "If I had to be honest, Nozomi would be the closest to being a type. She's not you."

Nozomi stared blankly at the both of them feeling her palms sweat. She needed to get out of this conversation quickly.

"Guys…the boxes… I just need help with boxes in this weather and then you can both go home and be all over each other as much as you want." She interrupted, feeling her head sweat. "Can't we just… get along?"

"We're not together!" They both turned on her and pointed to each other.

"Fine… I'll not only help you load the boxes, but I'll also attend the book signing event," Alhaitham said firmly. "If only to show Kaveh I can tolerate people over him."

"Great, I'm glad we could work something out." Nozomi clapped her hands together and turned to Kaveh. "You still onboard or did you… wait Alhaitham, did you say you'd like to sit in on the book signing too?"

"Only for a few hours then I'm out."

"Wow… Alhaithams actually showing initiative about going out. How surprising." Kaveh chortled. "Coming from the man-"

"Guys! Kind of important to focus… are there any questions about the event?" Nozomi narrowed her eyes at both of them. "Also please don't kill each other, this is kind of a big deal to me."

Kaveh answered, keeping his eyes on Alhaitham. "No questions from me, I'll sit the event until everyone is gone. I doubt there's going to be many people lining up to have a book sig- no offense of course Nozomi!"

"I don't care if there's a lineup just so long as it doesn't go on forever." Alhaitham pointed to his earpieces. "Either way, I'll be-"

"Wearing your noise canceling headset. We know." Both Kaveh and Nozomi droned.

Nozomi started to pace around the room until everyone made their way upstairs and lifted a few boxes.

It took them several hours until the evening for them to unpack, set up the book stand and make sure everything was perfect. A feeling of surrealism hit, seeing that she had finally made a name for herself. To her, even if her reputation was about writing Yaoi, there was a sense of pride that her books now stood amongst others in the stall. Nozomi watched on in surprise as both Alhaitham and Kaveh worked without uttering a word of bickering and instead worked in silence. She started to think of what Alhaitham and Kaveh said about her being their type then chuckled.

"Cute, but I think I'd end up killing them before I'd ever… nope! I'm not going to acknowledge or imagine that situation!" Nozomi held her head and paced. "I'm sure Alhaitham was joking and that Kaveh was trying to make light of himself for never being submissive to Alhaitham… that's it."

She fiddled with the pen attached to her vision. A slight pain in her chest caused her to wince as she looked at both men who had dusted themselves off.

"Seriously why am I having chest pains again? It's been a few months and Tighnari has already said I'm at low risk of a heart attack. I hope I'm not one of those authors that works herself to death."

*

The morning of the book signing event arrived. Nozomi slept very little, carrying a straight black coffee. She didn't like the bitterness of coffee but knew she would need it to get through the day. She had pre-ordered two more drinks for the boys who would join her once the stall was declared open.

A few stalls were being set up nearby for their own book signings and a few writers greeted Nozomi. A few had left copies of their own novels for her to read as she exchanged hers. She scratched her head embarrassed at the compliments and took a seat at the stall.

Nozomi glanced at the posters of Alhaitham and Kaveh and sighed to herself. Neither Kaveh nor Alhaitham had complained. Although at this stage Nozomi gathered either of them was already used to their images being used whether it would be in writing or in a manga format. Yae Miko had suggested that while customers were waiting on the fourth volume of 'They Were Roommates', to start releasing a manga adaption.

"We just need to find an artist to draw up every panel and we may have a best seller. See if anyone approaches you during the book signing, I'll try finding someone here in Inazuma."

It still felt surreal that her books were published alongside many other works of hers during the first year. She thought back to when she first met her two roommates, and a feeling in her chest started to grow. Every day had been challenging but whenever either Alhaitham or Kaveh was around, her days seemed less heavy. Kavehs wide smiles and Alhaithams subtle kindness played in her mind. She clutched her chest feeling the weight grow and shook her head.

Why am I all of a sudden so sentimental?

Nozomi looked up and breathed in deeply. The sky was clear blue and she could now smell the morning cooking from the Bazaar Markets. She focused on the sounds of shop holders unpacking their wares for the day, hearing the constant footsteps starting to build as the morning progressed. When she opened her eyes a small queue had formed.

Kaveh startled her when he took a seat next to her. He gave her shoulder a squeeze.

"It's just me, were you dozing off waiting for us?" He looked towards the queue. "Looks like you have fans.

Nozomi couldn't help but smile and relaxed around him.

"Kind of. I've been thinking about the last two years, it's crazy how time has flown past now since I've met you both. I almost thought you were a creep and that Alhaitham was some middle-aged man." She chuckled. "Oh, how things have changed."

"Jee thanks for admitting what your first impressions were of me." He rolled his eyes. "What's your take on us now?"

Nozomi held her chin.

"Hmm well, you're both reasonable to live with and I have something to laugh about whenever you two argue."

Kaveh turned toward her, his amber eyes looked forlorn.

"Seriously? Nothing about how amazing I am?"

"You know I think highly of you, Kaveh." Nozomi beamed. "It's not every day that your roommate can build you a room."

She thought Kaveh had a glint in his eye but he had turned his head before she could ask him further. Kaveh reached for Nozomis's hand and held it for a while before squeezing it.

"I guess… I just wanted you to have a home. I'm glad you found it with us. I'm glad you could be here, I'm proud of you for how far you've come in the Akademiya Nozomi."

"I… jeez you're saying it like this might be the last time you see me!" She nudged him. "Are you feeling okay today?"

Kaveh didn't lift or turn his head when he replied.

"Can we talk more about this when we get home? I… let's just focus on your book signing today, it's a day about you. Besides," He turned. "Alhaitham will probably grumble about how crowded it'll be. You'll need your energy to deal with him when he gets here."

Nozomi looked at him confused, his usual bright smile was not present today which was unusual. She placed her hand on his. It was obvious to her Kaveh had something on his mind.

"Kaveh, I need you to know if you can't find a smile to give today, then I'll give mine." She smiled sadly. "I'm here when you need to talk to me."

His eyes shifted to hers, tears had already flowed down his cheeks and he quickly hid them behind his sleeve.

"Thank you, I'll go and grab that coffee now." Kaveh stood and started to walk off.

Nozomi through her concern didn't notice that Alhaitham had taken a seat on the other side, once again startling her. Alhaitham held his coffee in one hand.

"Didn't you say it would be quiet? That is a long queue if that's the case." He took a long sip. "Guess I'll need several of these. Where's Kaveh?"

Nozomi pointed in Kavehs direction absentmindedly, now seeing several people in a queue that reached the end of the market. She blinked, surely this was for different authors at their stalls? She looked over to a nearby Mahamatra who nodded in her direction to start. Her hands shook as she lifted the red rope that stalled the queue, she forced herself to smile.

"Just think of this like you're at work with Alhaitham… it's just another day on the job. Alhaitham is right over there and he's actually helping you out."

"Welcome everyone! Please keep an orderly fashion and come over when you're called. It is with great pleasure, "She pointed to herself. "That I present my book signing event. I hope to get along with you all today."

Nozomi bowed low and then backed away. A few whistles and applause were shared and whispers about Alhaitham being at the table. Kaveh pulled up a seat next to Nozomi, his demeanor now as nervous as Nozomis'

"Woah! Look I knew Yaoi was popular but I never imagined such a crowd!" Kaveh stared at Alhaitham. "For once you were right."

All three shared a look with each other and took a long sip of their drinks. A few people started to approach Nozomi and held out their copies of 'They Were Roommates.'

"I can't believe I'm seeing you in the flesh! I love your work and I think both your characters are so… well" they blushed. "Hot."

"Oh uh… it's nothing really." Nozomi looked down abashed. "I'm glad you've enjoyed my light novel. Thanks for being here today!"

Nozomi whistled and her pen attached to her vision floated. She moved her eyes for it to sign the book. Most of the crowd now stared and hurried whispers were shared. Nozomi couldn't help but notice a few nervous stares at Alhaitham and Kaveh, she leaned over to both of them.

"Uh… you don't have to so don't feel pressured." she swallowed. "But I think you both have fans. Feel free to sign the books too or stick to handshakes."

Both slowly turned to stare at her and she felt her body sink further into the chair. She whistled at the quill to continue to sign while they shrugged.

"Whatever, but don't expect a friendly encounter." Alhaitham waved at a customer to come closer.

Two girls timidly approached Nozomi and Alhaitham. She recognized their clothes were from Mondstat.

"Welcome to Sumeru ladies. Thank you for traveling all the way here."

Both turned to each other and laughed nervously. One held a copy of They Were Roommates and the other A Librarian and Her Lair. She whistled for both to be signed then one walked over to Alhaitham.

"H-hello there Mr Alhaitham…" they stammered. "I liked the scene where you and Kaveh were at the bdsm-"

Alhaitham glared at Nozomi and snatched the book from her hands. His hands quickly scribbled his signature, shoved the book into the customer's hand, and turned his head at the ongoing crowd.

"Your thanks is appreciated." His voice was terse. "Next."

Nozomi laughed nervously and mouthed. "I apologies, both Alhaitham and Kaveh tend to be tense around each other."

Instead of shock or anger, both customers started to squeal and grabbed each other's hands. Nozomi blinked as they walked off.

"They're just like the characters in the novels! They're so handsome."

"That Alhaitham cosplayer is so hot! Did you hear his voice? I am so glad we came today."

Nozomi suppressed the urge to laugh loudly and covered her mouth as Alhaitham and Kaveh narrowed their eyes as they left.

"Cosplayers? Really… we look like cosplayers!?" Kaveh slammed his coffee down and groaned. "Oh lord, what have you done to us Nozomi?"

"Hmph, at least you haven't had the comment of my usual temperament being described as 'hot.' Nozomi, I've read every scene you've written about me and until today, didn't think much of it. I would now like to retract my original statement; you have degenerates for fans."

Nozomi shrugged and held her hands in front of her.

"Look I don't make the rules boys." She leaned forward and whispered. "At least no one actually recognizes you as real-life characters. Look I'll treat you both to dinner tonight, whatever you want."

Alhaitham grinned. "You have a deal. Also, can you put a book on layby for me when you have the chance? We're friends after all aren't we? "

Nozomi nearly choked on her coffee.

"You're making me really work for my life here… hold up, friends?" She laughed and waved dismissively. "That sounds more like a contractual relationship than an actual interest of one."

"I'm being dead serious. About the book, and the friendship. In that order."

Kaveh on the other side glared at Alhaitham. Nozomi leaned over to Alhaitham as she whistled for her quill to keep signing covers. While she didn't hear Alhaithams usual sarcasm in his voice, she didn't quite know how to react. She held out her hand.

"Friends share a handshake or a fistbump, your choice."

"Pfft what are we, in pre-school? Whatever," He clasped his hand and his fingers interlaced with hers. "Satisfied now?"

Nozomi kept her grip on Alhaithams hand while she turned to Kaveh.

"What sacrifice do I need to make in order to maintain a friendship with him? I need to know in case I need to crash in the nearest side street with you." She rolled her eyes. "Send help please."

"Hah! Alhaitham actually has a friend now… that is also a roommate. That to me doesn't count." Kaveh grinned and thumped her back. "Congratulations, I wish you the best of luck dealing with his socks and washing."

"Ew." Nozomi laughed. "I thought you were his wife… I mean bottom."

"You're both bottoms if you don't focus on the crowd." Alhaitham squeezed Nozomis' hand gently then let go. "Pay attention."

Nozomi looked up and at that moment, instantly recognized Lisa Minci. This time instead of her Akademiya uniform, she now wore a purple mages uniform with two splits. She wore a violet witches hat with a lantern attached to its end.

Beside her stood what she assumed to be Jean Gunnhilder. When Nozomi wrote her first two manuscripts, Lisa had shown her a photo. Jean in the flesh was taller and Nozomi felt her cheeks redden.

"Miss Lisa and Miss Gunnhilder! It's an honor to see you both!" She stood up and bowed. "From all the way from Mondstat too! Good to see you again Miss Lisa."

Both looked at the other and waved their hands.

"Oh please, no need to be so formal. Just Jean will do," Jean gestured to Lisa. "I… wanted to thank you for writing us so vividly and in character. The ending of Lisa saying goodbye had me in tears."

"Had you in tears? That isn't what you said to me when you finished reading it. You and Master Diluc were red as a Pyro Mage." Lisa teased. "I'm touched you think so much of me."

Jean coughed and held out her copy of A Librarian and Her Lair. "I'd love your autograph. I did enjoy They Were Roommates but this helped me through a busy period of work." She looked at Alhaitham and Kaveh and nodded.

Nozomi whistled and signed both volumes. Lisa looked at her when the quill tucked itself back in her brooch.

"Oh wow my cutie, you've been busy I see." She leaned forward and tilted Nozomis's chin. "While I have come here for an autograph, I wouldn't mind if that autograph was something more… personal."

"Huh!? I-" Nozomi gasped.

Lisa held her copy of the book in front of them, obscuring most of the crowd. Nozomi tried to look at Alhaitham and Kaveh but her face was pulled to face Lisa's.

"I've missed your kissing, I wouldn't mind another while I'm back in Sumeru." Her thumb rubbed Nozomis's lip. "Would you mind kissing the front cover rather than signing it?"

Nozomi heard Kaveh nearly fall out of his chair and Alhaitham turned the other way. She blinked wondering what the crowd was seeing as she nodded.

"How cute, then let's kiss it together."

"Wha-"

Lisa clasped Nozomis' chin as their lips pressed together. Their eyes closed and Nozomi tried not to moan as their kissing deepened. After a few moments, her grip loosened on her chin. Lisa then pointed to the front page and rubbed her index finger around Nozomis's lips, motioning for her to kiss it.

Nozomi took the book and pressed both lips, leaving a faint outline of Lisa's lipstick and hers. She tightened her eyes as she held up the book for her to take back. Lisa giggled and their fingers brushed.

"Thank you so much, I look forward to visiting again. Alhaitham, and Kaveh, both of you have grown so much. I wish you all the best." Lisa winked. "Keep my Cutie from mischief now, maybe kiss her for me while I'm gone."

Jean clutched Lisa's hand dragging her away, an apologetic look on her face. Nozomi slowly turned to Kaveh, his face clearly reddened. Nozomi picked up a copy of her book and hid her face.

"I am so sorry boys, today is just… weird. This isn't a kissing booth I swear to Archons." She groaned. "Kaveh are you alright?"

"What! I'm fine." He pulled the book from her hands. "I'm glad you got to see Miss Lisa today… the kiss was unexpected though. D-don't give me that look! I'm not a degenerate… okay fine, can you blame a guy for enjoying the view?"

"Well… I'm glad you enjoyed the view." she stammered.

Nozomi pulled the book away and then looked at Alhaitham.

"I suppose you enjoyed the view too?!"

"I don't care what you do with others, I'm just here minding my own business. You're the one getting the attention more than us." He flicked a page. " Besides, it adds more experience to your novels right?"

"Urgh." Nozomi threw her hands up and then turned to the crowd. "I'm just thankful no one noticed besides you two. Imagine, the fans actually…"

Nozomi paused when she saw two hands place a copy of They Were Roommates in front of her. She looked up at the tall man whose eyes had a gold shimmer to them. They stood tall, with wide shoulders, and wore elegant black coats that reached down to his boots. His hair was black with brown highlights, Nozomi tilted her head to see part of a low tail tied a the back.

Alhaitham suddenly stood and bowed, extending his hand out. Nozomi and Kaveh looked at each other confused.

"Mr. Zhongli, my sincerest welcome to Sumeru. It's a pleasure to meet you again." Alhaitham said warmly. "It's been some time since we've talked."

"Ah, Alhaitham old friend." Zhongli clasped Alhaithams hand with both his gloves. "Please, no need for formalities. It has indeed been a long while. You've certainly grown taller from the last we spoke."

"You flatter me, how is Liyue these days?" Alhaitham smiled.

Nozomi and Kavehs eyes widened in shock. She leaned over and flicked her head at them.

"I've never seen Alhaitham smile before! I'm afraid we're in a dream!" She breathed. "He actually looks great when he does! Do you guys know each other?"

Kaveh shook his head. "You tell me! This is the first time I've heard of Mr. Zhongli. Alhaitham has never mentioned him to me."

Nozomi watched as both Alhaitham and Zhongli had a conversation that flew right over her head. She had always seen Alhaitham engage in very little conversation at work. Anytime he spoke to anyone, it was short or curt. Watching him have a genuine conversation with their new guest made her smile. Alhaitham offered his seat and looked at Nozomi.

"Would it be alright to let him sit with us? As you've gathered, I've known Mr. Zhongli for years through correspondence letters back when I was just a feeble scholar."

Nozomi scoffed then quickly nodded and motioned for Zhongli to take a seat next to them.

"You're all very kind. I hope I'm not taking much of your time by being here." Zhongli held his hand out to Nozomi and Kaveh. "Please call me Zhongli. I see you've already had many people ask for your autograph?"

"I… well, I am surprised that so many people came out to the book signing. I never expected that a lot of people from different nations would come to see me all the way here!" She exclaimed. "Please, allow me to sign your copies too."

Kaveh also shook his hand. The three men got into a conversation about their perspective passions and areas of skill too esoteric for Nozomi to understand. She turned around and focused on signing the books.

Cyno walked towards Nozomi, with an obvious look of excitement. Tighnari trailed behind with an exhausted look on his face. Alongside them was a smaller girl, with short wavy moss hair and magenta eyes. All three approached Nozomi and greeted each other. Cyno grabbed both of Nozomis's hands and held them tightly.

"I can finally talk to you… I want to thank you for taking me seriously about making my dream come true. I still can't believe you agreed to publish my book of puns! No one but you understands my jokes. Okay, maybe one or two others but you're the only one who took my words seriously." Cyno shook arms. "I have some new Genius Invocation cards to add to your deck as payment."

"God please don't mind him…" Tighnari sighed. "It's all he's been on about for months. He brags he's the best TCG player as well as a Puns Master now. I want to shoot myself in the foot with one of my arrows so I can go on workers' compensation and leave Sumeru forever."

"But Master Tighnari, that means you'll be leaving me here alone with him too. I can't seriously stand it either." She pouted then turned to Nozomi. "Oh hello there! Sorry, my name is Collei, it's very nice to meet you."

"It's very nice to meet you too! Are you here to grab an autograph for Cynos book?" Nozomi giggled. "I actually like his jokes."

"I'm glad you're the only one who does." Collei chuckled. "Master Tighnari always complains whenever they both teach me. Now your book is all he talks about."

Cyno folded his arms and beat his chest proudly. "I've already received fanmail to write more puns. Someone in Fontaine has even asked me to make a stage performance for a comedy special. Speaking of Nozomi, here's another one."

He coughed. "Kaveh passed away and I attended the funeral with Alhaitham at six in the morning. He complained it was too early. I replied with 'I thought you were a Mourning Person.'

Nozomi and Cyno started to wheeze while Kaveh and Alhaitham turned around. Kaveh groaned and shook his head.

"I heard that!"

"Cyno you forgot, don't make jokes at his funeral. That's considered a grave mistake." Alhaitham grinned and turned to face Zhongli.

Everyone including their new guest paused at Alhaithams joke and clutched their stomachs laughing. Kaveh groaned louder and shifted his way next to Nozomi, she grabbed his hand and held it while he recovered. Zhongli at this stage stood up and sat where Alhaitham would have been.

Tighnari, Cyno, and Collei went to speak with Alhaitham and Kaveh while Zhongli leaned forward, his hands now locked in front of him.

"So Nozomi, what inspired you to write? I've seen your penmanship and you seem to write from personal experiences."

Nozomi thought for a bit.

"I guess it's because I love writing? To be honest I don't have experience in falling in love or being in relationships… I've just read a lot of the Akademiyas Archives about scholars being interviewed about the probabilities of a relationship working."

Zhongli's pupils followed her eyes, her whistles continued to sign more books as he smiled. "You learned all about the complexities of relationships just from reading them? That is indeed impressive but it also explains why there's barely any emotion to the characters at times. It's hardly noticeable if you don't read romance or erotica often, but to my eyes who has seen many people fall in love it is a quality I've picked up in your writing."

He picked up a cup of tea that had been ordered from Alhaitham earlier and took a sip. Nozomi looked down and sighed. There were nights when she wrote from either the perspective of Alhaitham or Kaveh but couldn't place what was missing. She knew it was something beyond experience. While she had physical contact with Lisa, she was never emotionally connected to anyone.

She gripped her chest and looked up at Zhongli. Before she could continue their conversation her world faded to black. She felt her breath shorten and a sudden image of an older man with greying hair flashed in her head. Her mind felt blank as she tried to speak, she held out her hands in the air.

"Grandpa? What is it like to fall in love?" She wheezed. "How did you and Grandma fall in love?"

*

Alhaitham sat near Nozomi, sharing a look between Tighnari and Kaveh who had overheard Nozomi's question. He stood up confused and tapped her shoulder. He stepped back as her eyes were now white. He heard the quill drop to the ground and quickly motioned for Kaveh to intervene with the guests as he turned Nozomi around. Alhaitham shook her gently, her eyes now returning to their normal deep brown. Zhongli watched quizically.

"Grandpa? While it's true many in Liyue probably think of me as Grandfather, I've never been directly referred to as one." Zhonglis's fingers brushed Nozomis's face. "Are you alright?"

"Uh… what happened?" Nozomi looked up at Alhaitham.

"She must have been spacing out, it's been a long day." Alhaitham removed his earpieces and placed them in Nozomis's hands and whispered. "Are you feeling anxious right now?"

Nozomis eyes looked at him, if there was any evidence something strange happened it was now gone. He breathed a sigh of relief as Nozomi shook her head.

"I don't feel anxious at the moment… I feel fine I think?"

"You just called our honored guest your Grandpa. Does he remind you of your family or something?"

"Family? I'm not sure if I told you before Alhaitham, but I don't remember anything before I was twenty. That's including my family." A frown appeared across her face. "Zhongli doesn't remind me of a grandpa… I must have blanked out because I can't remember a thing."

Alhaitham looked at Zhongli perplexed. His expression told him he was just as confused. Nozomi never made odd comments during their time working together at the office. Even when they had spent the night together at Lambads.

"Nevermind don't worry about it, it's probably just your mind on overload because of the book signing. I'll give you a few more days off so you can relax."

"Hmm very odd. I have a few herbal remedies here she could use if she's under any stress from studying or keeping up with her deadlines. All you need is to steep them into a hot tea." Zhongli dug into his coat and pulled out a small sack. "Consider it a gift as a friend."

Nozomi took the small herbal bag and smiled. Alhaitham looked at Kaveh as he sat back down next to her. For once, he was grateful his roommate had been present. He'd have to speak with Kaveh about what happened today.

A few people lined up to see Kaveh who looked surprised to see more fans. Many had approached them both but Alhaitham knew Kaveh wasn't used to so much attention and praise. Apart of him regretted not giving enough signs of his appreciation for the housework and his cooking. Then he shrugged.

His eyes drifted over to Nozomi who had already perked up. The afternoon rays fell into her eyes and over her shoulders, then he remembered how the evening glow from Lambads seem to give sparkle-like bits of stardust, surrounding her as she bowed and smiled at the customers requesting her signature.

"Is she someone you admire Alhaitham?" Zhongli asked. "The three of you all seem close."

Three?

"Nozomi is a friend. We work together mostly, but I think she needs improvement with some of her writing sometimes. As for Kaveh, he needs to reign in his debt. I guess I'm thankful he helps with chores though." He looked away and challenged Zhongli. "Have you ever loved someone before?"

"A bit unexpected coming from you… one would say that I have had many years of being in love. You'll find there are many who haven't experienced or felt what it's like to love someone. However if you're asking me personally whether I've loved someone… that feeling is from such a long time ago, it can almost be mistaken for legends buried beneath rocks."

"Figuring out what meaning lies behind your metaphors has always been enjoyable, even during our correspondence in our letters. I'm grateful you've given me much to think about over my years as a Scholar."

Zhongli smiled at him and nodded. "As with you, friend. Please write to me again when you do experience what it is like to feel love."

"Nozomi!"

A sudden cry came from Kaveh who had caught Nozomi and held her tightly. His panicked voice caught Alhaithams attention and he rushed over to her. Tighnari pushed both Kaveh and Alhaitham aside.

"Everyone move back! Give us some air! Nozomi can you hear me?" He clicked his fingers. "No response."

"Cyno, gather the Mahamatra and keep the crowd away from the stall."

"Got it." Cyno walked over to the crowd and held his arms wide.

Alhaitham knelt beside Kaveh, a flash of his grandmother standing with him underneath his parent's photo caused his throat to tighten. He unconsciously held Kavehs shoulder and silently watched as Tighnari and Collei resuscitate Nozomis's unconscious body.

"Please Alhaitham… I can't have this happen again." Kavehs voice croaked. "I don't know what I'd do if she…"

He felt a sharp sting of Alhaithams nails pinch his shoulder that snapped him out of his tears.

"Calm down. Tighnari is one of Sumeru's proficient herbalists and medical professionals. She's in good hands."

Rather than snap back, Kaveh was grateful for the Scribe's reassurance. He breathed in, holding back the tears that threatened to fall down his cheeks. He watched on feeling helpless while Tighnari and Collei kept giving compressions. An image of his mother holding a glass of wine, lifeless in her hand for many nights after their father died made him turn away. He kicked himself, why was he remembering this after so many years?

Nozomi had been kind enough to ask what was on his mind, why didn't he just cough up the courage to tell her why today was the anniversary of his father's passing?

"She was fine moments ago Alhaitham. Why?" He held his chest.

"I'm just as clueless about this as you are. Did she tell you anything before-"

They heard a cough come from Nozomis's lips. Tighnari held up his hand, signaling that it still wasn't a good time for anyone to come near her. He lifted her wrist and held a finger checking her pulse. Tighnari gave a look of relief and nodded at Collei to stop then rolled Nozomi to the side in a recovery position.

"Alhaitham and Kaveh, only you two can come over here. Everyone else please wait." Tighnari placed his hands on her shoulders, holding her in place. "She's awake but wait a few minutes."

Kaveh felt his heart start to pound as he heard Nozomis breathing slow down to a more relaxed rhythm. He crouched near her and grabbed her hand, rubbing it as soon as he felt how cold it was. He watched as Alhaitham leaned over on the other side and knew he was looking for vital signs of change like Tighnari.

"Kaveh…"

"Take it easy." Tighnari soothed. "You've just blacked out for a while. Hold still for a bit."

Kaveh felt Nozomis hand move, trying to give everyone a thumbs up.

"Ow, how did I end up on the ground?" Her head turned to Kaveh. "I remember watching you with the fans and you signing their books. You okay?"

"I'm fine. Please just relax a little." Kaveh whispered. "I'm right here. We'll talk more about it when you feel well enough."

"Alhaitham, are you doing alright?" Nozomis's voice croaked. "Last I checked you and Zhongli were having a conversation."

"We're fine," Alhaitham replied. "Just worry about yourself for now. Cyno and the Mahamatra are ending the event today."

"Oh… right. Did you guys have fun?" She looked expectantly at both.

"I don't like being around people all that often, but talking to Zhongli helped." Alhaitham turned to Kaveh. "I think Kaveh got the most enjoyment from you being kissed by Miss Lisa."

"Oh yeah… Kaveh, I don't mind you watching if it happens again." She choked while laughing. "I told you I'd be your smile if you couldn't find it today."

"Oh please" Kaveh scoffed. "Alhaithams is just jealous because he probably wishes he was the one girls made out with."

"Huh, I think it's the other way around. Maybe you'd be jealous-"

"Alright guys, this is getting way too awkward." Tighnari lifted Nozomi and straightened her back. "Maybe wait to have these conversations while at home? Nozomi are they normally like this? If so please make sure you have some time to escape. Now I've checked you over and you won't need a visit to Ghandarvaville. Just rest up for tonight and let us know how you feel in the morning."

Kaveh rolled his eyes annoyed and took over helping her up. Nozomi giggled while they both struggled to stand.

"Tighnari, maybe I'm a little jealous sometimes… they have this bubble going on that maybe I feel left out." She teased finally standing.

"If you want Alhaitham to keep giving you a hard time, be my guest." Kaveh wrapped his arms around her waist. "Are you sure you're feeling alright?"

"I'm sure I'll be alright. I have you two right?" She closed her eyes, trying to keep her balance.

Kaveh watched when Alhaitham wrapped his arm around the other side, making Nozomi lean on both of them. His eyebrows raised, it wasn't like Alhaitham to help anyone without something in return. Maybe because of the situation he felt kind? He couldn't be bothered working out what mood Alhaitham was in today, all he knew was at least Nozomi was okay.

Alive.

Kaveh looked at Nozomi, a sad reality hit that he'd need to explain someday about his past as he promised. He knew Nozomi would be kind enough to listen. The many nights they spent together drinking at Lambads reassured him of that.

Just not today.

"I'm sorry Nozomi, I'll tell you another time when you're feeling better." He whispered to himself.

"Huh?" Nozomi turned her head.

"Alhaitham is dumb!" Kaveh huffed out loud.

Nozomi looked on confused and Alhaitham kept silent. The music on his headphones was now louder. Kaveh grumbled knowing he wouldn't hear his complaint.

Once all three made it home, they helped Nozomi upstairs. Kaveh decided to make her a fruit bowl and juice and sat it on the side table. Nozomi had already fallen asleep so Kaveh took a seat next to her. Part of her hair blocked her eyes and Kaveh gently tucked a strand at the back of her ear.

"May all the worries of the world fade away for you. Have a good rest Nozomi."

*

Alhaitham sat at his desk on the night shift while Nozomi was away on leave for the week. He shuffled through a lot of Archives, and information on Inazuma. Alhaitham frowned to himself, throwing book after book onto his desk.

Tighnari the day after had called for a meeting to clarify what just happened. Kaveh had explained that Nozomi had no recollection of fainting or anything before while Zhongli had pointed out that Nozomis irises had turned white.

It confirmed a few things but Alhaitham wasn't sure of a conclusion.

He agreed Nozomi had anxiety when they paid a visit to Tighnari but there were a few things that happened outside of having an anxiety attack. Why had her eyes changed color and why did she call Zhongli her grandfather?

Alhaitham went through every conversation they had during the last three years. Many of what she said he could remember. At first, he didn't care much about what she said whenever they worked together, then two years had passed, and anything Nozomi talked about he started to take notice.

"I don't remember anything before I was twenty."

While he had heard about many cases in the Akademiya about amnesia, he found it unusual no memories had reoccurred during their time together. When he had explained this to Tighnari, he had no information on it either. Just speculations.

"I find it interesting as most patients with amnesia don't hold onto short-term cognitions for very long." Tighnari shrugged. "Let me know how she goes. I'd be interested if anything comes up."

Alhaitham scratched his head, unsure of what to ask Nozomi about if she felt any triggers. It was then that he realized he shouldn't and he thought about how she would react. It was like he was seeing her for who she was.

Not that he hadn't already known her when she first moved in. Alhaitham thought of her promise to put the book he wanted on layby. Initially, he had been sarcastic but Nozomi had taken him seriously. Her face in his mind was an abashed look, shoulders slouched and an apologetic look. Then he thought about the night at Lambads. How she had stared outside the window as it rained, the water looking like silvery barbs when the rays of the moon shined through the drops of rain.