*Disclaimer* - I do not own the copyright or characters to Genshin Impact.

*A/N* - Greetings everyone! Hope you're doing great. With Summer in full effect, it's that time of year again when Ei's birthday arrives. This chapter will be using elements found in the Twitter post, YouTube community post, and her in-game birthday letter. I hope to deliver a fun as well as somewhat romantic story for her on this day. Hence, I thank you for checking this story out and I hope you'll like it. Take care and enjoy!

Clear boundless skies.

That was all Ei could see from her point of view standing within Hanamizaka. Letting the cool breeze hit her while she brushed some hair out of her face. This moment alone was something that she didn't mind at all.

Granted, just a few minutes ago she was bombarded with people wishing her a "Happy Birthday" and speaking fondly of her. Something that she did not mind. Given her position as the Electro Archon. However, with every bit of fiber within her, she couldn't help but want to hear those words from a certain someone. Someone who had managed to see the real her. He had even gotten her to come out of her shell of chasing Eternity and take in her surroundings.

How long had it been since she last saw him?

Moreover, while she could affirmably say that she had more friends and acquaintances than before, she still wished to see him.

*Step*

*Step*

Suddenly, from behind her, she could sense that someone or something was coming up on her. While any normal person would freak out or immediately turn around to confront whatever was sneaking up on them… Ei merely did not move and waited a moment longer to see what would happen next.

Fortunately, whether it was from past experiences or a fleeting feeling that resonated in her heart, the Shogun knew exactly who it was. Perhaps it was just wishful thinking coming to life, or her heart's desire managing to become a reality.

"…You're late."

Turning around, she was able to see the person she wished to see so dearly. He stood there standing up straight and wearing a pleasant smile on his face while holding what appeared to be a gift box.

"Sorry. Had to pick up a few things. But I'm here now" came the soft yet calm response of the person she cared greatly about.

Standing there looking quite happy was the Traveler, better known by his friends as Aether.

"Happy Birthday, Ei!"

Unable to stop the smile appearing on her face, the purple-haired Archon simply let this moment of happiness radiate on her face.

"Mm. Thank you. All day today it's been nothing but pleasant wishes and words on my behalf. But…" Ei trailed off her words.

"Huh? Is something wrong, Ei?" Aether asked, seeing that something had happened.

Glancing out at the vast landscape of land and water around her. Taking in a clear and beautiful sight of Inazuama… Ei then offered a kind smile to him before continuing with what she was going to say.

"…Hearing a birthday greeting from you feels… different."

Ruffling the back of his hair, Aether couldn't help the warm sensation hitting his cheeks.

"I know what you mean. Whenever I get letters from everyone, I know on my birthday… seeing your letter makes me feel even more special. Not that I don't feel like that with everyone else's letter! It's just…"

Aether's face had taken the same color as a pink dango. It was quite odd to see him like this let alone how he was scratching the side of his cheek.

A sly smile appeared on the Archon's face. She could understand what he was trying to say. In addition, it was quite a sight to witness the heroic and legendary Traveler in a blushing mess. If Ei wasn't seeing it first-hand, then she'd find it unbelievable.

"Haha. I understand what you mean, Aether. And… I thank you."

Staring at one another, the Traveler and Archon continued to do this for some time. At least a whole minute passed before Ei was the one to break the connection and glance around. Something was quite off with this encounter.

"Say… where's Paimon?"

Placing his gift on the ground, the blonde-haired Traveler waved his hand out while beginning to explain.

"Ah. Don't worry about her. She'll be here soon" Aether causally replied. "She's getting something ready for you but didn't want you to be alone for too long. Hence, she sent me over to be with you."

Appreciating the young girl's desire to gift her something, Ei suddenly realized that there was more than meets the eye. How had Paimon known about her being alone?

"…Aether."

"Yeah? What's up?"

"Paimon knew I would be by myself. How?"

Realizing that the jig was up, the Traveler figured that the surprise was bound to be turned over sooner rather than later.

"Yae Miko."

"Hm. That explains everything then."

"Don't worry. I'm sure Paimon will stop Yae from doing anything too crazy" he reasoned to her.

Nodding her head, Ei had to give some credit to the Traveler's companion. Although she may be small, she tended to be a big help when it came down to it.

"Indeed. In that case, I do wonder what those two could be up to" Ei mentioned, taking on a thinking pose.

"I'm afraid I can't say anything on that matter. Paimon wanted it to be a surprise and while I do know what will be involved in the project… I think leaving it a surprise will be better" the Traveler explained. "Besides, I can already tell that you're going to love it!"

Honest excitement flared on the Archon's face as she was now intrigued greatly by the boy's words.

"Is that so? Well then, I'll hold you to that. Miko delivered me some treats this morning just as my letter mentioned. They were… different than the usual desserts I am so used to."

"Did you enjoy them?"

A bright smile graced the beautiful woman's face.

"I did. Very much so. I'd gladly offer some to you but…"

Aether couldn't help but let loose a hearty chuckle. Based on her wording…

"Haha! You ate them all?"

Donning a slight pout across her face, Ei turned her head to hide the faint blush that was appearing on her cheeks. Were anyone in Inazuma to see the Shogun like this they would not be able to believe it.

"Is that a problem?" Ei asked, keeping a low tone in place.

Anyone unfamiliar with the Electro Archon might have taken that as a slight warning to be careful with what they say. However, with Aether, he merely chuckled louder and knew right from the get-go that Ei was just joking with him.

"Nope. Just that your sweet tooth was at it again."

The purple-eyed girl kept her gaze lingering on the Traveler for a second longer before blushing and laughing lightly. She couldn't help but feel silly for thinking otherwise. And she had to admit, the desserts were exquisitely delicious. A sure splendid gift to receive from Miko.

"Mm. I'll have to ask Miko to make that dessert again. And I'll be sure to save some to share with you and Paimon" she gingerly said with a smile.

"It's a date."

Smiling warmly at that phrasing, Ei couldn't help but look forward to their sweet, themed date that would come the next time Miko managed to make the same desserts she gifted her this morning.

In all honesty, Ei was half tempted to rush over and find her pink-haired friend and demand that she make some desserts now but figured it would be better to wait. It would also give her some time to plan things out to make their next interaction even more special.

While she was lost in her train of thought, Ei had unconsciously started twirling her hair around and accidentally undone part of her braided hair. Something totally unexpected.

"Oh?"

"Ah. Apologies for this. I'll- "

"Hang on. Do you mind?"

Taken back by Aether's offer, Ei could only utter one response.

"…Huh?"

The Traveler then pointed his finger up at her hair.

"I could help braid your hair. Save you some time from doing it. And… I'm not sure when Paimon and Yae will get here" Aether reasoned to the Archon.

Shifting her gaze up at him and staring right into his eyes, she could tell he meant everything he said with sincerity. Moreover, the offer of braiding her hair shouldn't have impacted her the way it was. But it did. Because it was out of left field. Never had she expected to hear the Traveler offering to braid her hair. It was both an enticing and exciting offer.

Alas, it also caused her to feel her breath leave her for a second. There was only one other person who ever offered to help braid her hair… her sister. Makoto…

Spending what felt like an eternity to bring herself back to her senses, Ei slowly nodded her head while letting a faint blush spread across her face.

"Would you… mind?"

"Heh. Not at all" Aether comfortably replied before gesturing over to a rock next to them. "Here. Take a seat and I'll get your hair back in order."

Moving over to the rock pointed out, Ei sat down comfortably while Aether took a step right behind her to the point that she could feel his body heat right next to her. Not in a confrontational kind of way but close enough to know that he was there with her. And that he was taking care of her.

"I bet you're wondering how I learned to do this," asked Aether.

"Mm. Part of me is guessing that it has to do with being on your own. I'm not sure how well Paimon would handle one's hair. Then again, that girl is unpredictable" Ei answered.

"Haha. Yeah, Paimon's never tried. Which, considering we've been traveling together for some time now, is quite unexpected. But it's also because I learned from my sister. I still remember the first time she tried braiding my hair. It ended up in a complete failure haha!"

A melody of giggles could be heard from Ei as she imagined the Traveler's hair turning out not the way he wanted it.

"I'm serious when I say this. My hair had somehow been tied together like you tie rope along something to pull it haha."

This caused the girl to keep on laughing while bringing a hand over her lips to try and stifle her laugh.

"Lumine… I had to chase her down for a good hour to help me fix my hair. From that day, she learned to braid it. And after having it braided so many times, I just learned how to do it on my own. Hence, I now know how to braid hair in a few different ways."

The mood between the two was nothing but laughs and fun as Ei was sincerely enjoying her time just listening to Aether talk about his past.

"While I can't say I've had that kind of eventful situation play out with my sibling, Makoto tended to braid my hair with such finesse. Telling me stories that caught my attention or finding ways to make me lose track of time. Those are some small moments that I cherish deeply today…" Ei explained while pausing her words before picking back up and leaning her head back into Aether's hands. "I… I feel that way with you now. Safe… cared for… loved…"

No response was needed at this moment as Aether had leaned forward so that from an outsider's perspective it looked like he was leaning down by her ear to tell her something.

However, that was not the case.

What the Traveler had done was move his head so that his lips had slowly come to meet hers. An action that caused the Archon's eyes to widen greatly before relaxing. She even shifted her head to meet his in an intimate act. There didn't need to be an explanation for what had just happened between the two. That much was obvious.

After a moment passed, Aether broke away and leaned back while offering a bright and warm smile.

"I…"

"…I…"

The two weren't sure what to say. And yet, the only reasonable thing the two could do is to laugh with one another. What should have been a romantic gesture and moment turned out just like that. Along with a bit of humor and comfort added.

"Thank you, Aether."

"You're welcome, Ei."

After this was said, the two shared a calming moment of silence while Aether continued to help braid her hair and get her back to looking as beautiful as she was. He could also feel her body slightly leaning back further into him than before. A simple yet meaningful gesture.

"…Aether."

"Yeah?"

"Tell me… how has your journey gone? It's been a minute since we last spoke."

"Has it? Didn't we meet at the rock n roll festival that was like last- "

Waving her hand forward, Ei corrected him.

"Not like that. We didn't exactly sit down and chat. Moreover, only a brief bit of information was discussed."

Realizing that she was right, Aether stayed quiet for a moment longer before letting out a sigh.

"It's been… eye-opening that's for sure."

"Any news on your sibling's whereabouts?"

Biting his lip, Aether didn't give an immediate response leaving Ei to realize the significance of this question's answer.

"…I know Lumine is out there. I'm getting closer and closer to understanding my journey's purpose. I think… I've started getting a picture of what I'm meant to learn. But… I have also come to realize something crucial. Something that I know has changed how I'll view the truth once I truly find her."

Listening carefully, Ei knew better than to pry too far into another's affairs. That was something she could reflect on with her experience with Makoto's passing, locking herself away, and creating the Raiden Shogun puppet. However, the man sitting behind her was someone important to her. He was not only a friend but… also the person who made her heart race repeatedly in a good way. She could trust him and learn to be there for him like he was for her.

"…And do you mean by that?"

Finishing up with Ei's braid, Aether slowly looked up at the beautiful sky before him and let a small content sigh escape his lips.

"I'm not alone. As much as I might feel like that when crossing from one region to another or coming up empty on anything regarding Lumine's whereabouts… I know that the bonds I've helped create will lend whatever support they can to help me find my sister. On top of that, getting to learn more about this world and the creatures and people in it… there's still so much to learn. But I know that my journey will undoubtedly be different from my sister's. And who knows… maybe we'll disagree on some things but agree on others. I know I'll find her soon."

Making sure to process everything that he said, Ei turned her head around and could see the look of determination appear on his face. One that looked both positive but also not overconfident.

"Forgive my presumption but… I'm guessing that's not all to your recent adventures?" she considerably questioned.

A frown appeared on the boy's face before nodding.

"Yeah… you could say that. I've had my fair share of battles as of late. Most went well. While others…"

"No need to continue that, Aether. I understand. But make no mistake. I know you'll step up to the challenge. You've proven that to me more than once. From our duel to getting me to open up to the world and everything else in between to now. And even if things don't work out now or later… there will come a time."

Aether couldn't help but be grateful for hearing the Archon's words. While he hadn't talked about anything yet, just the indication that someone was offering him words of support meant a lot. Especially as he looked back at everything that transpired in Fontaine.

"Ei… thank you."

"You're welcome, Aether."

The two once again shared another comforting look before the Traveler had a thought come to that moment. It even caused him to jump up which startled the purple-haired woman.

"Hey, why don't we take a picture together?"

"A picture?"

"Yeah! Why not? It is your birthday after all. We could make this a common thing. Every year we take pictures with each other and anyone else who wants to join. Who knows? I bet it'll look great" Aether said, sporting a sly grin.

Unable to stop the smile appearing on her face, Ei sporadically stood up and moved next to him.

"How will we take the photo then?"

Looking around him, Aether had several ideas for how a picture would go. Placing it on the ground… holding it up in a selfie… sticking it along a rock… or finding someone to take the picture.

"How about we take several pictures together? Make it even more memorable."

Deciding to let the Traveler take charge in this matter, Ei nodded her head.

"By all means. You're in charge."

"Great! Then how about we start one with the two of us like this…"

Aether then brought his arm around Ei and respectfully placed his hand on her shoulder. He then held the camera out in front to get the two of them in frame.

"Say cheese!"

"Cheese…?"

*SNAP!*

The two then watched as their picture registered in the Kamera which showcased the two of them looking happy while being right next to one another.

"…I like it."

"Same. I'll make sure to get a copy to you."

"How? Is your device able to do that now?"

"Not exactly. But a quick trip to Fontaine will allow me to get clear pictures done. Maybe even have Charlotte freak out over seeing us together" Aether replied.

"Charlotte… that name sounds familiar. Is it that girl that came to Inazuma with the pink hair and portable device?"

"Yep! You two chatted for a moment."

"Ah. How rude of me. I remember now."

Chuckling at Ei's admission of momentarily forgetting Charlotte, Aether just shook his head.

"You remembered her. That's all that matters."

"Right… what other ideas did you have for a picture?"

On track to take the next picture, Aether moved to set the camera on a rock nearby while also setting a small timer on it. Once it was placed on the ground, he rushed over to Ei and struck a natural yet casual pose.

"Here. Look at the Kamera. It's about to snap our photo."

Flinging her arms down, Ei quickly pressed herself close to Aether before the Kamera clicked signaling that the picture was taken. As Aether went over to get the device, the Electro Archon couldn't help but giggle at how he was acting so carefree. A contrast of his somewhat serious tempo from a minute ago.

Meanwhile, behind the two at a good distance, Paimon and Yae Miko watched as the two chatted over the picture that was just taken.

"Err… Paimon is wondering when we should announce that we're here?"

A hearty laugh was heard from the pink-haired kitsune woman.

"My dear Paimon… let's let them finish up with their pictures. I'm sure Ei will want one with all of us. For now, let's leave her to enjoy this moment. It seems our dear Traveler managed to work up the courage and confess his feelings."

"Right… Paimon can honestly say Aether's crush on Ei was… obvious" Paimon said while shaking her little head. "He's not exactly good at hiding his emotions. Even when he doesn't talk it's still easy to see what he's thinking."

"True enough. Plus, Ei seems to be having a good time."

Nodding her head adamantly, Paimon then looked down at the box resting in her hands.

"Yep! Ei's going to love this new treat Paimon whipped up. Thanks to eating all of Navia's Macarons, Paimon took a bit of inspiration to make Dango flavored Macarons!"

Glancing down at the box, Yae sported a wide grin.

"I must say, when you came to me with the idea, I was a bit hesitant. However, after doing a taste test myself I can certainly say that they are quite tasty. I might even include them in a new novel I have the publishing house working on."

"Oh? What kind of novel?"

"One involving a young mistress venturing outside of Inazuma and making her way to Fontaine to chase down her dearly beloved. The inclusion of Dango Macarons will not only drive interest in the novel but also in Fontaine. Strengthening ties with Fontaine based on interest in the novel. I can assuredly say that that can happen. A similar situation took place not too long ago with a novel involving Mondstadt."

While listening to Yae Miko's explanation, Paimon couldn't help but feel like the story about a young mistress from Inazuma traveling to Fontaine was strange. Almost as if it was something she was familiar with. But that idea could wait as her attention was snapped forward at the sight of two individuals staring at her.

"Uh… Paimon's not doing what you're thinking… "

Aether wore a smug expression while Ei folded her arms across her chest.

"My my. I take it that you two are done taking pictures?" Yae Miko teasingly replied.

"Miko… did you plan this?"

"In a way, yes. But also, no. Paimon and I merely prepared your gift from us. While Aether had his present with him the entire time."

A sudden moment of realization struck the Archon. She had forgotten that he had a gift for her. Turning to him, Aether already had the gift extended to her.

"Haha. Don't worry. I didn't forget it. Happy Birthday, Ei!"

Gently taking the gift from his hands, Ei slowly began to open it and could see a magnificent sight before her. It was practically beauty given the form to be devoured. This resulted in Paimon giggling and Yae Miko to facepalm.

"I swear… you're going to be the death of me little one," Yae said to Aether. "You do realize this girl has already received enough sweets for today."

"Miko! There can never not be enough sweets. Besides, this is no ordinary sweet. This… This is made for an Archon!" Ei shouted excitedly.

Aether and Paimon couldn't help but let out a group chuckle.

"Well… you're not wrong about that, Ei" Paimon stated.

"What do you mean?"

"Hehe. This dessert is specifically called "Pour la Justice". It's from Fontaine and means veneration of justice. It's a specialty made by a very special someone in Fontaine" Aether explained. "Someone we briefly mentioned to you the last time we met. She made significant sacrifices for Fontaine during her time as the Hydro Archon."

Breaking down what he said, Ei gave the dessert another observation while also taking note of its fabulous and stage-worthy appearance. From the metal plate it was resting on and the blue and white design along with the bow resting on the treat's side. And how could she not notice the beautiful crown resting at the top of the dessert?

"Furina… made this?"

"Yep! I tried replicating her special dish and… well…"

"He messed up" Paimon bluntly said. "He messed up quite badly."

"Hey!"

*Giggle*

"*sigh* Yes, I messed up. Four times. By the fifth time, I asked for Furina's help on how to make a decent-tasting and looking dessert. And I can confidently say that it tastes amazing but still can't beat the original" Aether explained.

Meanwhile, in Fontaine…

At that same time, a sneeze could be heard coming from the former Hydro Archon as she was seated with her friends, Navia and Clorinde.

"Furina? Are you okay?" Navia asked.

"Is it allergies? I recall a similar situation happening one time in the courtroom" Clorinde mentioned.

"N-No. It's nothing like that. It was more like… someone was thinking about me…"

"Eh? That kind of sneeze… well, that's… err…"

Navia wasn't sure how to respond to that claim.

"Isn't that… irrelevant?" Clorinde muttered while taking on a thinking pose. "You're obviously very popular within Fontaine. And now having met others from different regions that could be talking about you… wouldn't you be sneezing a lot now?"

Taking a second to try and argue her point, Furina fumbled with her words before recalling the part about having met others from different regions. There was a certain someone who came to her for help. He paid quite the hefty sum in desserts to appease her. Plus, learning that there was someone else who greatly appreciated the dedication and exponential greatness of sweets raised her spirits to help the Traveler in his latest endeavor.

"Ahahaha! I should've realized it sooner. It's Aether who must be thinking about me now" Furnia explained with a smug grin on her face. "I helped him learn how to bake a "Pour la Justice". He must be thinking about thanking me!"

Navia and Clorinde both shot one another looks that basically could believe that explanation. Their "partner" and friend were certainly the kind of person to do such a thing.

"That does sound believable" Clorinde commented.

"Hmm. I'll have to ask Aether how that went. I'm sure there's a story to tell there!"

Furina merely kept a victorious look on her face. Justice had prevailed yet again. In a sweet manner, nonetheless.

Back with Aether and company

"Haha. But don't just focus on my gift. You should look over at theirs" Aether said aloud.

Examining Paimon and Yae's gift, Ei's face had once again shot up with excitement. Small pink, green, and white sweets were all placed on a pedestal hidden beneath a fancy-looking box. The sweet scent of Dango had filled the Archon's nose and caused her to practically want to drool.

"Ei! Watch yourself!" Yae reprimanded.

Snapping out of her thoughts, Ei coughed into her fist and composed herself.

"Ehem. Excuse me. That was… expected. Thank you, Paimon. I love this gift."

"Aww. You're welcome!"

"And Miko. I know you helped so thank you again."

"Of course. Anything for the birthday girl."

It was at this point that Aether stepped up while still holding his gift.

"And we aren't even done yet. Why don't we sit down and eat?"

"That's one idea I can support one hundred percent!"

The sight of Inazuma's Archon looking so happy made everyone's day. It had truly become a day of great celebration. Even if Ei wasn't much for excessive celebrations… this was one she'd hold onto dearly. Especially since her hand was now intertwined with a certain someone's hand.

A birthday worth remembering.

*A/N* - Thanks for reaching the end of the story. Truth be told, while Inazuma's story feels like so long ago now, I still have Ei/Raiden Shogun on my team to this day. The same goes for Beidou. Those two got me into Genshin Impact and will continue to do so. Lastly, thank you for checking this story out, and until next time. Take care!