Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It was a peaceful night at the Ragnivindr household. A fitting way to settle down after this evenings celebratory events at Angles Share. The oldest Ragnivindr son has had quite the eventful day celebrating his coming of age.

Kaeya had earlier tried to convince Diluc to taste their family’s wine, which he did but the second the liquid entered his mouth a squeamish expression crossed his face indicating his disgust. The younger had always been excited to try the winery’s finest wines when he turns eighteen and wanted to hear Diluc’s thought on the beverage since Crepus (and the law of course) forbids Kaeya from drinking until he is eighteen.

“I think I am just going to stick to grape juice” Diluc had said, handing the glass over the bartender who seemed highly amused by his reaction..

At least the entire Ragnivindr family went home completely safe and sober that knight. Kaeya was also able to go off duty early due to it being his brother’s eighteenth birthday which meant Master Crepus was burdened with the task to keep a careful eye on his youngest, the crowed at Angles share made it easy for the teens in Mondstadt to sneak a couple of bottles.

Surprisingly though, Kaeya behaved really well tonight. He wanted to make his older brother’s birthday as special as possible, so any pranks or cheeky behaviour were off the table for the day.

When the three arrived at home safely they were greeted with a warm supper prepared by Adelinde which involved some fruit and her famous cookie recipe that Diluc loves so much. The three sat around a warm crackling fire as the rain outside patted on the windows, bringing them a sense of cosiness. Nothing beats being in a warm home on a stormy night with freshly baked cookies to eat.

“It is always lovely to come home to Adelinde’s cooking, especially when it is chocolate chip!” Diluc said, grabbing one of the cookies of the tray and stuffing his face.

“I can’t believe most kids our age get excited about having their first drink but all you care about on your eighteenth birthday are cookies, which contain the same recipe and ingredients that Addie has been using for years” Kaeya chuckled at his brother’s childish excitement.

“Well, that is because unlike alcohol, Adelinde’s cookies actually taste good” Diluc said after swallowing his cookie in seconds.

Kaeya hummed in agreement as he continued to eat his cookie. Nothing beats Adelinde’s cooking. During his time at the winery, Kaeya soon learned why her food tastes so good compared to the food he would eat at the best restaurants in Teyvat. And yes a simple answer would be is that Adelinde is the best chef in Teyvat but for Kaeya, it is because the food tasted like home.

When Kaeya first arrived at the winery “home” was just the place you slept, but now it is so much more then that. Home is where his family is, where he is safe, where he is loved and where all of his worries a washed away…

Well… most of them at least.

As Kaeya continued to grow up, he began to worry what it would mean for him when he comes of age. What will it mean for his mission. At first the worry was just some small lingering cloud in the back of his mind, but the closer he gets to eighteen, the more that cloud grew closer to a storm.

The Ragnivindrs have given him so much over the past eight years, the thought of betraying all that love and trust he was given made him sick to his stomach. They didn’t deserve that.

They didn’t deserve him.

“I am so proud how far both of you have come” his adoptive father interrupted his thoughts, Crepus had a knack for doing that, bringing Kaeya sudden comfort whenever his mind started to distress him, it was is if the man wanted his son to believe he is loved (a concept Kaeya can’t exactly quite grasp).

“I have raised great children who will soon become great men, the both of you are my pride and joy and will continue the strong legacy of this family. Especially you Kaeya, I remember once you were to shy to even talk to us and now you are one of the greatest knights in Diluc’s squad!”

Kaeya blushed at his father’s praise.

“Oh absolutely” Diluc agreed, nodding along, “I remember when I tried to say hi to you when we were younger and all you would do is run away!”

Kaeya pouted, “well how would you feel if I came running to you screaming in some foreign language? You were an incredibly loud child back then”.

Diluc gaped in response, looking slightly offended by his brother’s comment “I am not loud! And I don’t scream, I was just very excited to meet you!”

“A little too excited, that is”.

Diluc sighed giving up, “well at least you were less annoying back then… and cuter.”

“Hey!”

Crepus chuckled at his son’s bickering, “The knights have certainly taught the both of you to give me fewer grey hairs as you… matured. But I cannot deny that no matter how you would’ve turned out I would’ve always loved you both”.

Diluc’s smile was broad, “thank you father…”

Kaeya didn’t reply since the affection tends to make him go quite shy. He just stared down at his half-eaten cookie pretending to ignore Crepus.

“Now I think it is time you two head off to bed, the week ahead is going to be a big one for all three of us! So it is best for you too to get some rest…”

Kaeya yawned, “Yeah… I am getting a bit sleepy. Dealing with all those people at the tavern certainly drained my social battery…”

“It for sure has” Diluc agreed, “well, good night father, thanks for everything today, I’ve had fun!”

“It is my pleasure son; I only want the best for my children”.

The boys went to ready themselves for bed. Tomorrow and the week ahead is going to be big for them since Diluc is now of age he has more responsibilities as the Calvary Captain, but with his brother by his side, it should be no trouble.

Diluc was sitting at his dresser, yanking a hairbrush through masses of red locks, frowning whenever the brush got stuck and wincing whenever he pulled out a knot.

Kaeya sighed and gently grasped Diluc’s wrist. His way of saying “you are going to damage your hair if you keep doing that”. Diluc reluctantly let go of the brush for Kaeya to grab onto and untangle his air for him.

“Do you wish me to braid it for you? Give you less of a bedhead to wake up” Kaeya chucked, gently brushing his brother’s locks.

Diluc nodded, sitting their quietly as he let his younger brother do his work. Kaeya was much better at handling his own hair then he was. Diluc tends to be quite careless with his hair, forgetting to brush it when he wakes up, just chucking it into a low ponytail until his brother stops him and brushes for him. Kaeya refuses to let his brother going out with a bird’s nest on his head. He would force his brother to sit down and let him part his hair and bangs properly before neatly putting it into a high ponytail. Kaeya believes it looks way better than Diluc’s lazy low ponytails.

He quickly finished up Diluc’s hair by putting it into a lose low braid, so it is comfortable to sleep with. His hands worked swiftly braiding and tying it up, Adelinde has taught him many tricks over the years when it comes to “dealing with crazy Ragnivindr hair”.

Diluc smiled into the mirror, admiring his brother’s work before turning to face him “I wanted to thank you Kaeya, for today, especially since you made a request to Varka to change your shift to spend time with us”.

Kaeya shrugged, “it’s no issue, I wanted to spend time with you and dad today, couldn’t miss my older brother’s coming of age!”

“Yeah, I wouldn’t of liked to celebrate my birthday without you to be honest. That means I cannot afford to miss out on yours too Kaeya! Dad and I will make sure you get the eighteenth birthday you deserve!”

Kaeya’s face dropped at the mention of his eighteenth birthday, bringing his thoughts back to what he was thinking of earlier at the fireplace with Diluc and Crepus. Did he really deserve something this special for his eighteenth? After the lifetime of lies and sins Kaeya is not sure if he even deserves their love at all.

“Hey…” Diluc grasped his arm gently, interrupting his thoughts, a look of worry spread across his face which sent a pang of guilt thorough Kaeya “Is everything okay?”

I really don’t deserve them, Kaeya thought, his thoughts scrambling he didn’t even notice the tears in his eyes, why does he even worry for someone like me? Someone who cannot make up their mind between a dead nation and his own loving family…

“Kaeya” Diluc spoke softly, hand gently placed on Kaeya’s shoulder, “is there something you need to tell me?”

Kaeya froze at the question, his mind scrambling at what to say.

“Diluc… I-“ his chocked-up words were then interrupted buy a loud crash coming from the outside. The boys both jolted, startled at the sudden noise that interrupted their peaceful night.

“What on earth is going on out there?!” Diluc cried, heading towards their bedroom window trying to see what is happening outside “don’t tell me the wild boars gotten into the vineyards again…”

Before Kaeya could respond, there was commotion outside their bedroom door and he dropped the hairbrush in fright, the sound of running footsteps and the winery’s staff shouting could be heard. More noise were coming from outside, Kaeya could hear gunshots being fired and people shouting to get down and out of the way.

“That is one aggressive boar, Diluc…”

It wasn’t until a moment after the emergency bell started ringing.

Kaeya felt his heart stop, the winery has an emergency alarm that the staff can ring in case something happens that requires everyone in the winery to be awake and prepare for evacuation. It is not normal for that bell to ring unless the winery is on fire or…

“Boys!” Adelinde burst opened their bedroom door, startling them both “get you’re weapons and boots! The winery is under attack!”

“We’re under attack?” Diluc exclaimed, “by who?”

“Master Crepus suspects it’s the Fatui but now is not the time to discuss. We need to get out of here!” Adelinde directed the toy boys out of their room and lead them down a flight of stairs to an old wooden door which led to the wine cellars beneath the winery. It brought Kaeya back memories of how him and his brother used to sneak out of the winery to eat grapes during the night.

Only this time, they are sneaking out for other reasons…

“This way,” the door to the cellars creaked open as a gust of cold air hit Kaeya’s, there was barely any light coming out, only just enough so you could see where you are placing your feet “both of you should know where the tunnel in this cellar leads. Once you escape head to the city and alert the Grand Master and the Knights, if you find yourselves surrounded Master Crepus has sent once of his hawks to the knights in case you can’t make it to the city in time. Both of you have your weapons but only use them if absolutely necessary!”

“But if dad is going to alert the knights anyway shouldn’t we stay and defend the winery? Kaeya and I are both trained knights we can help!” Diluc protested.

“The winery’s staff all used to train with the knights as well Diluc. Master Crepus would not forgive me if I let you boys out to help us fight. Besides both of you would be more beneficial helping out the Grandmaster”

Kaeya could tell that last sentence was a lie, him and Diluc are just as well trained as the rest of the staff, not to mention his brother is a vision bearer and is highly skilled in using it. Adelinde just wanted an excuse to protect him, and his brother and he doesn’t blame her. Being the sons of the richest man in Mondstadt leaves a target on both of their backs. Diluc’s more since he will be the one to inherit the business, not to mention he is also the famous Calvary Captain.

In that moment, he made a choice. He will get his brother out of here and keep him safe.

“Let’s go Diluc, we cannot waste time arguing!” Kaeya could see that his brother wanted to argue further but decided that it would be best if he got Diluc out of here first.

Kaeya dragged his angry brother into the dark cellar with him, who was protesting and insisted to go outside to fight. The second the two boys left the room Adelinde shut the door behind them.

“What is wrong with you!” Diluc cried and shook his arm out of Kaeya’s grip, “I thought you would agree with me to help fight! Our father could be in danger!”

“I realised that!” Kaeya snapped, although facial expressions were difficult to see in the light, Diluc could clearly see his brother glaring at him,

Kaeya’s voice then softens, and he gently placed a hand on his brother’s shoulder “I am just as worried for father’s safety as you are Diluc, but I also worry about you too. You are reckless and even more so when you are angry or stressed. I want to go out and fight to bastards attacking our home, but you are my family, Diluc. I would do anything to keep you and father safe even if it means doing some things, I don’t like…”

Diluc’s expression was unreadable, “what is that supposed to mean- “

“Doesn’t matter” Kaeya dismissed it, “point is, I am a selfish bastard that does not wish to see you, or father get hurt. And if we cannot get to father right now I might as well save you. Now let’s go see Varka”

Kaeya went to head down the stairs but before he could go further Diluc stepped in front of him. Hand griped firming onto his brother’s arm, stopping him from walking further. Their conversation was not over yet.

“Protecting those you love Kaeya isn’t selfish. It shows that you care… I was just worried that by heading into the city we are really wasting time when we would be so much more useful here at the winery fighting the people who are attacking us”

Kaeya sighed, “your right… how about this. Once we get out cellar, we take out some of those Fatui bastards before heading to the city. Ya know… lighten up the load for the staff here at the winery?”

The redhead grinned, satisfied that he is getting the response he was waiting for, “I like you're thinking, besides taking out one or two of them shouldn’t take too long… right?”

The pair made it out of the cellar and to the back of the Vinyards in the winery, the coast was clear for them, however on their way to the path that leads to Mondstadt they then encounter a mirror maiden followed by some agents and an electro cicin mage.

“I suggest you stand down, Ragnivindr” the Mirror Maiden said, her comrades behind her readying for combat.

“Hmph… I was hoping for a few more opponents” Kaeya spoke confidently.

“I wouldn’t be getting cocky if I were you, kid” said the Agent, “now you can surrender and we will greatly take you both with us, two sons of the richest man in Mondstadt being held hostage can earn us quite the penny don’t you think? Not to mention, one of a fellow Harbingers wishes to see you, Kaeya”

Kaeya froze at the mention of a Harbinger wishing to see him, what does the Jester want with him?

“If you want to take him, you are going to have to get through me first” Diluc said, summoning his claymore and standing in a ready stance. Kaeya could see from his expression that his brother was already pissed off, however when it comes to his brother’s safety, Diluc will try his best to stay focused and avoid letting his emotions control him.

Diluc spoke firmly, giving Kaeya clear instructions before all hell breaks loose “Keep the maiden and mage distracted while I knock over the agents.”

Diluc charges forward, wielding his massive claymore with precision and strength, while Kaeya gracefully dances around their opponents, using his sword to deliver quick and precise strikes.

The Fatui agents spin their blades around them, creating a dangerous barrier that cuts anything that comes too close. Diluc realizes that his fire attacks won't be effective against them due to the crowded setting, the vines around him would light up in flames if he isn’t careful. So, he decides to use his claymore's weight to his advantage, smashing it into the ground to create shockwaves that knock the agents off balance.

Meanwhile, the Mirror Maiden unleashes powerful hydro attacks, causing water to surge and crash around them. Kaeya uses his swift movements to dodge the attacks, but he is momentarily distracted by the Cicin mage's electrifying lightning strikes. In that moment, the mirror maiden takes advantage of the opening and lands a solid hit on Kaeya, knocking him to the ground.

“Kaeya!” Diluc watches in horror as his brother falls to the ground. He realizes that they are outmatched and outnumbered.

He quickly rushes to his younger brother's aid, but before he can do anything, he is then knocked back by the Mirror Maiden's hydro attacks, pushing him away from his brother’s body. Diluc was quick to pick himself up, his vision turning red and his expression showing nothing but pure anger.

“Get away from him!” Diluc cried, his claymore lit up in flames, he couldn’t care less if the vines caught on fire and with all his strength, he summoned a giant phoenix made of pure flame, ready to destroy the maiden and agents that stand in his path.

However, the maiden didn’t seem to even flinch and Diluc’s attack and by summoning her hydro powers, she is able to create a portal to dodge the flaming bird, leaving her comrades to disintegrate in its wake. Meanwhile the cicin Mage created and electro shield that was able to block the blast.

“What-“ Diluc’s eyes widened when the maiden disappears, not noticing the hydro mirrors appearing behind him and the Maiden striking him with brute force, using her hydro abilities to pin him on the ground. Mirrors surrounded Diluc, obscuring his vision and making it difficult for him to get his bearings.

“No- DILUC!"

As Kaeya screams in horror and anger, his expression darkened as he watches helplessly as the Maiden prepares to strike Diluc down, the teeth in her smile glinting with cruel satisfaction. The fire that Diluc caused burns the surrounding vines, the smoke thick and suffocating.

Kaeya's heart pounds in his chest as he frantically searches for a way to save his brother. His vision blurs and swims as the dark power within him surges to the surface. This dark power however felt familiar, as if dark memories of his past are finally coming to light.

Suddenly, a pulsing blue and purple light fills the air around them, and a swirling portal appears beneath Diluc's back. The portal is both beautiful and terrifying, like a glimpse into a starry, infinite universe. Kaeya recognises that this familiar power is his own, that he is the one creating the portal.

With a surge of desperate hope, Kaeya focuses all his energy on the portal, willing it to take Diluc away to safety. He thinks of their childhood home, warm and inviting, filled with memories of happier times. He pictures Diluc lying safe and unharmed in their old bedroom, surrounded by familiar comforts.

The portal beneath Diluc's body expands and engulfs him, swallowing him whole. Kaeya watches with bated breath as the portal disappears, taking his brother with it. He's left lying alone in the burning vineyards the air thick with the remnants of his dark power and smoke.

The Maiden leaps back in shock, but her expression told Kaeya that she recognised the power before her, she turns to the mage “He’s like the Jester! Knock him out before he creates another!”

Kaeya turns to face his opponents, but before he could defend himself, he feels a sharp pain at the base of his skull and falls unconscious.

Chapter Text

Meanwhile, Crepus was outside the front entrance of the winery, using his trusty claymore to hold off the rest of the fatui. He may not have a vision like his son, but that doesn’t mean his past training didn’t come in handy.

Crepus was in the middle of fighting a hydro gunner, without any elemental power, he struggled to break through the gunner’s shield. Dodging the gunner’s attacks were easy since most gunners in the fatui are slow and sluggish, meaning that delayed reactions didn’t have as many consequences, however the gunner’s ability to heal his allies has been a real pain in the ass, which is why Crepus wanted to get this guy out of the way first so he can take care of the rest.

His fight was then interrupted by a spear whistling past him, shattering the fatui’s shield and landing straight into his chest with a loud, thunk, the momentum of the strike forced the gunner to fall on his back. Crepus turned to see Adelinde, still in her dirty working cloths with blood splattered across her face.

“Thanks for the help” said Crepus, “are the boys safe?”

Adelinde yanked the spear out of the gunner’s chest, “for now, I have sent them down into the cellar to the back of the winery so they can make an easy escape. As far as I am aware, there are not many Fatui at the back. Hopefully they behave themselves and head to the city as instructed”.

Crepus smirked, “I seriously do not understand how Grand Master Varka gets those two to follow his orders…”

Adelinde chuckled, spinning her spear and cutting down her opponents with ease, “who says they follow the Grand Master’s orders?”

The pair continued to work with each other to fend off the remaining Fatui. Crepus and Adelinde were both great fighter’s, but they were clearly outnumbered. Crepus could also smell smoke coming from the back entrance of the winery, his breath started to shorten due to the lack of oxygen in the air. Crepus started to worry that if the smoke becomes too much he could pass out from exhaustion. However, thankfully there was a loud horn that sounded from further away. The sound didn’t seem to be for the knights, but for the Fatui. The enemies sheathed their weapons and simply retreated.

“That’s strange” said Crepus, sheathing his claymore “they clearly had the upper hand”.

“Maybe they were just intimidated by the two of us?” suggested Adelinde.

I hope so. Cause either that or they already got what they came for, the thought burned in the back of Crepus’ mind.

“Master Crepus the Knights of Favonius have arrived!” one of the staff members have shouted.

Coming down the hill from the city, Varka and the Calvary arrived in large numbers, most of them armed and ready to defend the winery, only to find that their preparations weren’t even necessary. The Fatui have fled the scene, leaving nothing but the damage that was caused by the fighting.

The knights scattered across the winery, using torches to search for anyone who is injured and left in the dark as well as assess the damages to the property, meanwhile Varka steered his horse over towards Crepus.

“Apologies for showing up late, Master Crepus, were there many Fatui here?” Varka said climbing off his horse.

“There was quite a few, but they had retreated before you have arrived” Crepus replied walking up towards him.

“That’s… odd. I will have my knights search the scene” Varka then smiled and shook Crepus’ hand, “it’s good to see you are safe, Crepus”

Varka never used formal titles when it was just him and Crepus talking. The two have been friends for quite some time and are long past formalities.

“Thank you, Varka. Have you seen Diluc and Kaeya on your way here? I sent them towards the city to alert you” Crepus’ expression grew worried at the last sentence. He had expected that he wouldn’t see them immediately due to exhaustion or probably investigating some of the damage, they were trained for this after all. However that does not prevent his worry for them.

“I am afraid I haven’t come across them on my way here. I will send some scouts to go look for them” and with that said Varka marched towards his soldiers, focused on finding Crepus’ two boys.

Crepus then went to check on his other staff members, as far as the knights have been aware there are shockingly no casualties, just a few injuries. The news brings a sense of comfort to Crepus, having staff members die while working on his premise would bring him an overwhelming amount of guilt. Having people die for a home that isn’t theirs just isn’t fair. His thoughts were then interrupted by the front door of the winery bursting open.

“Master Crepus!” one of the maids from inside the winery came running out the front door, her expression alarmed “it’s Master Diluc I have found him inside the winery”.

Crepus wasted no time and barged passed the maid, careful not to bump into her. The second he walks into the main hall he finds his son on the ground, hands bound behind his back.

“Diluc! There you are…” Crepus sighed in relief checking up on his son, untying the bounds on his hands “how did you end up in here I thought you were outside?”

After asking that question, Diluc looked just as confused and Crepus was, but also scared, “I-I don’t know” he said, lips wavering.

Crepus didn’t question his son further and brought him into a hug, “It’s okay, we can talk about this later, it seems that the attacks have ceased. Do you know where-“

“His gone!” Diluc cried in anger, as if he knew who Crepus was asking about. The wine master did not miss the anger and sadness in his tone. He could feel his heart shatter at the sound of his sons broken sobs.

“Kaeya is gone dad, the fatui have taken him…and it is all my fault…” voice much quieter.

Crepus felt his heart shatter at the news Diluc had given him. His son? Kidnapped. The Man fell to his knees at his son’s level, arms wrapping tightly around him, afraid that if he were to let go he would get taken too. He then pulled back to look into his sons eyes, and all he could see was fear and guilt.

“Oh Diluc…”, Crepus has never seen his son so scared before. Ever since Kaeya has become part of the family Diluc had burdened himself with the task of protecting his younger brother at all costs. As heart-warming as it was Crepus could not help but worry that all this pressure Diluc is putting on himself is just going to ware him down. And now with his brother gone, Crepus is going to have to pick up the pieces and stay strong for Diluc so the unbearable weight of guilt doesn’t destroy them both. He was trying to hold back his tears in the moment so he can stay strong for his son, he brought a hand to his son’s cheek, stroking his tears away, trying his hardest to bring any sort of comfort to him.

Crepus’ mind was racing with the news of his adoptive son missing. He knew that the Fatui were involved with shady dealings but never thought they would come to the winery and actually kidnap one of his children.

As he helped Diluc up off the ground, he noticed that his son had a cut on his forehead, “we need to get you to the medics”, Crepus said as he led Diluc back outside to were Varka brought in his medics and get Diluc patched up. He could see the knights and his own staff working away to repair any damage that has been done to his Vinyards. Geo uses were patching up potholes in the ground that could be tripping hazards while hydro uses would put out any fire. A couple a dendro uses were also there to help the burnt vines grow back to normal.

Diluc watched the hydro uses put out the various fires around the winery. He hopes the vines at the back are not too damaged thanks to his vision.

When Diluc was seated comfortably and receiving medical treatment, Crepus couldn’t help the anger that was boiling inside him. Anger for not being there for Diluc and allowing Kaeya to get kidnapped.

Adelinde had told the boys to both go to the city safely without looking for a fight, but it looks as if Diluc’s pride and protectiveness got the better of him. If only Crepus was there to tell his boys to just stay in the cellar. He knew he couldn’t blame himself entirely, but he couldn’t help but feel responsible for what happened.

Crepus quickly got the attention of one of the knights, "Tell the Grand Master that Diluc is found and that my other son is missing, I need every knight on the grounds to look for him" he told them unable to hide the urgency in his voice. He would go tell Varka himself but he would rather stay with Diluc for the time being.

The wine tycoon felt a sense of relief when his son was patched up, it is nice to be able to trust the knights and see his son is in good hands.

After thanking the medics Diluc and Crepus sat in silence. Crepus wanted to comfort his son but didn’t know how or what to say. He knew that like him, Diluc was blaming himself for what happened, and he didn’t want to make it worse by saying the wrong thing.

After a few moments, Varka approached them, expression solemn, “My knights at told me what happened, I do apologise Crepus but we have searched the entire area and as it currently stands there is no sign of Kaeya. We will flip over the entire continent to find your son, I swear.

“Thank you, Varka, for everything” Crepus’ head bowed in gratitude, but he couldn’t hold back the tears in his eyes over the news of his son missing. He could feel a mixture of anger and sadness boiling up inside him. How dare the Fatui take his family away from him?

Varka smiled warmly, but it brought no comfort to him, “no need to thank me, just simply doing my job. Besides, Master Kaeya is a valuable member of the Knights as well as a valuable citizen of Mondstadt. I will do everything in my power to find him. Meanwhile I suggest both you and Diluc should get some rest.”

After Varka left, Crepus turned his attention to his son. The one that isn’t missing. The one that he must keep safe at all costs and cannot afford to lose. He cannot afford to fail Diluc, not after failing Kaeya. He needed to give Diluc comfort and reassurance if he wants to avoid failing him. He cannot bear to make the same mistake twice.

“We will find him Diluc, I promise” he said “But we need to think strong and clearly, and we cannot let our emotions get the best of us. We must stay strong for Kaeya”

Diluc looked at his father, eyes wide, his expression unreadable, witnessing his son be this broken, Crepus immediately regretted what he said.

“Oh Diluc… I am so sorry…” he wrapped his arms around his son tightly, Diluc reciprocated, clinging onto his father like a scared child, sobbing into his shoulder.

“How can I focus when he could be in danger? Hurt? Scared?” Diluc continued to cry into his father’s shoulder.

“To be honest son, I do not know” said Crepus, he realised that Diluc didn’t just need comforting, he just needed honesty, “but if there is one thing I do know, is that Kaeya is strong, and that sassy attitude of his will keep him going, I know it”

Diluc didn’t exactly laugh or smile, but he appreciated the humor as it did bring him some reassurance. As protective he is of his little brother, he cannot deny Kaeya’s strength as a person. Being abandoned by his father and having to adapt to an entirely new society, culture and language was a whole strength it itself.

“You’re right, but that doesn’t mean I will not do whatever it takes to find him. I don't care if Varka allows me to be a part of his investigation. I will use what I can to take down those bastards that stole him from us” Diluc’s face was stern, tears stopped flowing but they stained his cheeks. Strong or not, Kaeya is his brother.

“And I will not stop you” Crepus did love his son’s determination, but he couldn't help but feel scared for his safety “I promise that the knights and I will do whatever it takes to help you bring him home”.

Chapter Text

Kaeya groggily opens his eyes to a dimly lit, cold and icy cell. Shivering, he rubs his arms to warm himself and surveys his surroundings. The stone walls and floor are slick with frost and the air is thick with the musty scent of dampness. He realizes he is in some kind of dungeon, possibly in Shneznaya since it is not normal this cold during the spring of any other nation.

Kaeya vividly recalls the events at the winery, he hopes he managed to get Diluc in the winery safe. He thinks back at the power he had used to get Diluc inside the winery. It had been years since his father taught him to utilise his abyssal powers. Ever since his arrival in Mondstadt, he refuses to use them in fear that his new family would discover the kind of monster he is. But it’s too late for that now. Diluc now knows the kind of power Kaeya holds. Despite his reluctance to use such a dark power, he is grateful that it got his brother to safety.

At the thought of his family Kaeya decided it was best to find a way to escape first so he can get back to them. He is not sure if his father or the rest of the winery’s staff are okay. He rose to his feet and assessed his surroundings, looking for any possible way out. The door to his cell was made of iron bars which made it easy to see what is happening outside his cell. Trying to peek through the bars to see what lies ahead further down the corridor, Kaeya noticed a spiral staircase that most likely led the way out of here since dungeons have the tendency to be underground.

But then came a problem, the guards. There are two posted at the base of the stairs followed by one at his cell. They were dressed in thick coats with fluffy collars, protecting him from the cold. Judging by the style of the outfits, Kaeya thinks it is safe to assume he must be in some kind of Fatui stronghold or possibly Zapolyarny palace.

Kaeya shivered seeing the guards dressed all warm and cosy. He knew he had to endure the bitter cold outside if he wants to escape and see his family again. Not to mention, those coats can make quite an easy disguise if he wishes to escape with ease.

He knows that the guards won’t be standing there forever so the second they leave to change their shifts, he will strike.

After sitting in his cell and waiting for some time, the guards at the stairs were ready to head up, nodding at the one at Kaeya’s cell, signaling him to keep an eye on their prisoner.

Now with less people to deal with, Kaeya took a deep breath, readying himself for what is about to come. Then with a sudden burst of energy, he slammed his body against the iron bars, causing them to rattle loudly. He then fell back on the floor, pretending to be unconscious.

“What the heck?” The alarmed voice of the guard outside his cell spun around to see the prisoner on the ground. Kaeya could see through his half-closed eye that the guard was cautiously opening the door to his cell and approach him, taking out his baton and poking him with it to see if his awake.

The guard sighed, “what an idiot… can’t believe we wasted our time kidnapping this stupid kid.”

Suddenly, Kaeya sprang into action, grappling the guards’ thick coats, yanking him further into the darkness of the cell and knocking him off balance. Kaeya the wrapped his arms around his neck, squeezing his airways preventing him from making any noise to alert the guards changing shifts.

Once the body in his firm grip goes limp, Kaeya quicky swaps his dirty coat with the clean fluffy one the guard was wearing as well as pinching his hat as a way to hide his eyepatch.

Of course, Kaeya had to consider things like his obvious features that differentiate from the guards here, such as his darker skin tone, his eyepatch and blue hair, which are a good giveaway as to who he is. So, walking out into the hall and locking the unconscious guard in his cell Kaeya made sure to keep his hair tucked in his hat and head low so he can go unnoticed.

“What’s going on down there?” Kaeya froze and refusing to turn and see the guards coming from downstairs.

“Oh nothing! Just the prisoner trying to cause a ruckus! Of course, I made sure to rough him up a little, he won’t be causing any trouble and time soon” Kaeya kept his finger’s crossed hoping that the excuses would work.

The guards looked at each other, shrugged as if to say, “probably nothing” and then turned to face Kaeya, “Heh… no worries, glad to hear that we won’t be having to deal with him ourselves!” the guards laughed, and Kaeya let out a sigh of relief. Now he just has to find a way to get past them. He knew that if he walked straight out of here or pretend to go on a bathroom break or something the guards will most likely see his face so he will have to wait for his shift to end (or rather the guard that he just threw into the cell’s shift to end.

Thankfully, he didn’t have to wait that long. A man wearing a similar outfit to him came downstairs, “Hey Adrik!" he addressed Kaeya "You’re shift has ended and the boss wants to talk to you!”

Adrik, so that must be the guard in the cell, “Yes, heading there now.”

Kaeya kept his head low and held his breath and as swiftly as possible he walked past the guards at the stairs, avoiding any sort of eye contact with them, hoping his obvious features would not show themselves with the help of his coat and hat.

“Hey, Adrik” Kaeya stopped suddenly but kept his head low, his heart pounding in fear of being discovered, “you’re feeling alright?”

“Yes! Just going to go rest” Kaeya’s attempts and improvising a Shneznayan accent are not the best, but he hopes it is enough.

“All right, rest up, see you ‘round!” the guard thankfully dismissed him, and Kaeya quickly walked up the stairs as fast as he could.

Kaeya cautiously made his way through the winding corridors, of the dungeon his heart racing as he tried to avoid any possible detection. The dungeon was eerily silent, the only sounds coming from his own footsteps and the occasional drip of water from the ceiling. The coldness of the dungeon was almost unbearable, and Kaeya couldn't help but feel grateful for the warmth of the guard's coat. As he walked, he couldn't help but think about the events that had led him here - the attack on the winery, his capture, and the uncertainty of what would happen to him next and what the Fatui want with him. But he couldn't let himself dwell on those thoughts for too long. He had to escape and find his way back to his family in Mondstadt.

“It’s the prisoner! He has escaped!” Kaeya felt his heart drop at the guards suddenly shouting. The must of discovered the unconscious guard he left in there.

Two guards turned the corner behind him their footsteps getting closer and closer, “You there! Stop and show yourself!”

 Kaeya didn’t even look back. Screw it, they’ve caught me. He bolted.

His heart pounded in his chest as he heard the guards' shouts echoing through the stone halls. His mind raced, trying to come up with a plan. How had they discovered the unconscious guard he had left in the cell that quickly? It didn't matter now; he had to focus on getting out of here alive.

As he turned the corner, he saw two guards in front of him, blocking his path. They were armed with batons and light armour, not too tough to take down. Kaeya's heart skipped a beat, but he knew he had to keep moving. He took a deep breath and charged towards them.

Dodging their attacks with a combination of speed and agility, Kaeya managed to slip past them and continue running down the hallway. The guards shouted behind him, their footsteps pounding on the stone floor. But Kaeya was determined not to give up.

He sprinted down the hallway, his breath coming in short gasps. He was still dizzy from waking up, but his natural athleticism and stamina kicked in, propelling him forward. He was one of the fastest sprinters in the knights, and even his renowned brother struggled to keep up with him sometimes.

As he turned another corner, Kaeya saw an open area up ahead. It was cleaner and less cold than the dungeon, which meant he must’ve made it to the lower floors of the palace. But his victory was short-lived, as he suddenly found himself surrounded by fatui agents, guards, mirror maidens, and mages.

Kaeya knew he was outnumbered and outmatched. He couldn't take out all of these fatui, even if he had his weapon. But he refused to give up. He thought of his family back home in Mondstadt and felt anger boiling up inside him, the familiar darkness he felt consuming him the night of the attack was coming back. Kaeya felt his mind floating back to when he was a child, training with his father, using his power to send Abyssal creatures flying at his own will.

His body was surrounded by a dark blue Aura that looked like a part of a night sky, raising his arms Kaeya summons his abyssal powers and then releases all his energy and created a massive pulse that sent all the soldiers around him flying back.

The soldiers were still on the ground, but they were all still focused on the boy in the center of the room, stunned by his power. Kaeya stood there, panting and sweaty, but triumphant. He refused to let even the biggest obstacles get between him and home.

As he caught his breath, he braced himself to use his powers to get out of here, but he was interrupted by a deep voice which echoed above the chaos, “stand down comrades! For this child is a guest…”

As pleasantly surprised as he was by the guards standing down, Kaeya wasn’t sure if he should be comforted or concerned that all the Fatui around him have dropped their weapons and fell to their knees so suddenly.

He turned towards where the voice was coming from and walking from amongst the shadows was a tall man with white hair, who looked about in his mid 50’s, wearing a large white coat with a black fluffy collar. The man was also wearing dark blue mask that covered the right side of his face and on the left side of his face his eye…

Was blue, with a pupil shaped like a four-pointed star.

That is when Kaeya’s breathing almost stopped. He didn’t know exactly what he wanted with him, but what he certainly didn’t expect was for the Harbinger to address him in a tone filled with pride.

"As expected of you, my dear nephew, well done,"

Chapter Text

The man’s sinister voice sent a chill down his spine, Kaeya knew exactly who this man was. He was the Jester, Pierro, the leader of the Fatui Harbinger’s and a former member of the Abyss order. His uncle and someone whom his birth father told him not to trust. As far as he was concerned his uncle was not to be trusted for he has betrayed and abandon the abyss and become nothing more but a puppet for the Cryo Archon.

Despite his feelings towards the Jester, Kaeya tried to keep his emotions in check. He had never really talked to his uncle before, but he had often seen him arguing with his biological father. Kaeya preferred to stay out of it, knowing that his father could be quite intimidating when angry.

As the Jester spoke, Kaeya couldn't help but feel a sense of unease. Despite his aging and new hairstyle, Pierro still looked like the same cold and unwelcoming man Kaeya remembered. When Pierro said he was "proud" of Kaeya, it rubbed him the wrong way

“I do apologise, I wanted to be able to great you properly without having to get my soldiers to chase you down,” Pierro said, his voice low and dangerous “it is quite frustrating for both me and my men that you chose to escape”

Kaeya’s jaw tightened. “You kidnapped me and locked me in a cell” he said, tone flat.

“I suppose you are correct, but I did for good reason” replied Pierro, shrugging like what he did was innocent and justified “I couldn’t afford to have a teenage boy with abyssal powers on the loose, especially one that hasn’t received the proper training for some time”.

He is not surprised his uncle was aware of his abilities but he did not appreciate the way Pierro talked so openly about them since Kaeya was hoping to keep them a secret for most of his life.

Kaeya decided to get to the point, “What do you want with me? Why send an army to attack the winery to come after me?”

The Harbinger smirked, as if he had been waiting for Kaeya to ask that question.

“Glad you are finally asking the proper questions” Pierro turned towards the corridor as if he expected Kaeya to follow him, “I will speak with you once we meet the others… Tartaglia!”

The second Pierro said the name Kaeya felt a large force push him to the ground face first. Strong hands held his arms behind his back while he felt a rope snake around them, tying him up.

Kaeya groaned from the impact and turned to see the person behind him, he had dull blue eyes, short ginger hair with a mask as a head piece and freckles scattered across his nose. He looked young, around Kaeya’s age and was wearing a similar jacket to his uncle, probably another Harbinger.

“Sorry comrade!” the ginger spoke, his voice was oddly cheerful for a guy with such dull eyes, “but my boss thinks you are dangerous, need to make sure you don’t use that crazy sparkle blue magic of yours.”

He only just met the stranger, but he was already beginning to agitate Kaeya. He was about to argue that his abilities are not just “sparkly blue magic” but the rope around his wrists was pulled tight causing him to grunt.

“Now Tartaglia, be gentle with him, wouldn’t want to hurt our guest would we?” Pierro’s politeness sounded entirely fake.

The other Harbinger cocked his head to the side as if he is confused by his request, “umm… weren’t you the one who ordered our men to knock him unconscious and throw him in a cold cell, sir?”

Kaeya couldn’t help but snort. As annoyed as he was at the teenager for pushing him down he couldn’t help but find his personality and sass quite amusing.

“Tartaglia!” Pierro’s eyes shot a warning look at the other Harbinger.

The Harbinger or “Tartaglia” as Pierro referred to him as, sighed and hoisted Kaeya off the ground, gentle enough to allow Kaeya to adjust his footing and maintain his balance “Yes sir…”

Kaeya felt the Harbinger gently push him to follow his uncle down the dark halls. As much as he wanted to struggle and escape to leave this place he decided against it since the guy escorting him is a Harbinger, regardless of his age and ranking in the group.

As they walked, Kaeya tried to take in his surroundings, but the darkness made it difficult to see much. Occasionally, they passed by a torch on the wall, casting flickering shadows on the stone floor. He couldn't help but notice the distinct lack of windows, making the stronghold feel like a dungeon.

Finally, they arrived at a large, ornate door. The two agents pushed Kaeya forward, and the door creaked open, revealing a grand hall with a high ceiling and a long table in the centre, which was surrounded by nine other people Kaeya didn't recognize. The room was tall with a dome shaped ceiling made of glass with a chandelier hanging from the ceiling. There was no throne or sign of the Tsaritsa herself, to Kaeya’s relief

Pierro marched towards the head of the table, taking his seat on the largest chair located at the end, representing the mans superiority, much to Kaeya’s distastes.

Observing the people in front of him, it was easy for Kaeya to assume that they were the other nine Harbingers that he has yet to meet. He may not know their faces but their uniform consisting of a long white coat with a black fluffy collar made their ranking quite clear.

The Harbinger’s didn’t seem too fazed by some random teenager being escorted into their meeting place. Most were disinterested, like the short Inazuman man with the wide brim hat. Others  however seemed curious, like the creepy light blue hair guy with a mask covering his face, grinning at Keaya like an absolute maniac making him very uncomfortable to be standing in this room. The only person he was unable to read was the tall man wearing black cloths under his white jacket and full-face coverage (also black), only thing he is showing is his long thick black hair.

Kaeya wasn’t exactly sure how someone like Tartaglia got roped into all of this. The kid looked like just a mere innocent child compared to the other Harbingers. However, Kaeya wont make assumptions based on looks alone. The ginger is most likely just another bloodthirsty maniac like the rest of them.

“It is nice for all of you to come and join us today” says Pierro, voice filling the cold silence in the room, “for today is a special day, for Her Majesty, the Tsaritsa has given me permission to add a twelfth spot for the Harbingers and have a new member join our ranks”

The Jester paused as the other Harbinger’s just staring blankly at him until someone finally speaks up.

“Seriously? Eleven is not enough for you?” The short Inazuman man scoffed.

“Now, now Balladeer, it is not like you have to work with this new member… but at least acknowledge him as one of your comrades.”

The Balladeer rolled his eyes, he didn't seem like the type to enjoy working with others. 

“I assume it is that boy standing there at the end of the table” said a lady with blond hair and a black mask covering half her face, “judging by his outfit underneath that coat I assume he is a knight from Mondstadt? He doesn’t exactly look like the fighting type to me...”

“I wouldn’t exactly call him that” said a woman with black and white hair and red crosses in her eyes, her piecing gaze seemed to freeze Kaeya in place, something about her was not sitting right with him, “the kid may dress like an innocent person from the nation of freedom, but I recognise those eyes anywhere. That boy is a Khaenri’ahn”

Whispers and murmurs flooded the room, each Harbinger glancing at him and Pierro. Kaeya started to feel nervous of that woman, she is highly observant and recognised his nationality without even getting to know him. Every other person he has met in Teyvat has not suspect a thing. He swore he has heard about people with crosses in their eyes before but cannot seem to recall where from.

“Impressive, Arlecchino. Kaeya is indeed from the same nation as me. Like me he posses the ability to use his own abyssal powers and with these powers he can become a highly powerful twelfth Harbinger”

"Great, we have a nepo baby joining our ranks" the Balladeer said with sarcastic tone, "lets hope he isn't as childish as the other abyss kid here."

Tartaglia crossed his arms and huffed, clearly the Balladeer was referring to him. Kaeya looked at him curiously. Abyss kid? He doesn't look Khaenri'ahn.

"Unlike Tartaglia, Kaeya wasn't just a mere dweller in the abyss, he was born and spent his early childhood there before being left in the city of Mondstadt. His abilities will be useful."

Ah, so he propbably fell into the abyss for some time, that explains why the Inazuman called him that.

Kaeya didn't focus on that Harbinger any longer he needed to know what exactly was going on. Although the other Harbingers seemed satisfied with the news of a new co-worker, he was not exactly willing to comply with what his uncle is suggesting.

“Do I get a say in this?” Keaya made sure to project his voice to get all Harbingers attention. Eleven heads turned to face him and Kaeya felt a chill go down his spine. Social situations did make him quite nervous, but he is to angry to fall shy all of a sudden.

“Why of course you do” replied Pierro, the smile on his face failing at being comforting “I am just simply announcing to my fellow comrades who their new colleague could possibly be”.

“And what if I don’t want to join your organisation?” Kaeya spat, “your people invaded my own home and kidnapped me, not to mention nearly killing my family and now you have the audacity to ask me to join you?”

The other Harbinger’s seemed surprised at Kaeya’s sudden outburst, few raising their eyebrows at one another as if he impressed them. Their expressions shifted as if they are now suddenly highly interested in who Kaeya was, either that or they are bored and just wanted to hear some “family drama” to entertain themselves.

Pierro stared coldly at Kaeya whilst the Harbinger’s were chatting quietly and then continued to speak, voice loud and clear enough so he can speak over the others at the table, “you seem to have forgotten what I am offering to you Kaeya. I am not just asking you to join the Fatui but also offering you some incredible power and influence. As a Harbinger you have control over majority of our armies, can visit any of the other six nations as you please, not to mention the immense wealth you make as one is more than that of the Grand Master of the Knights of Favonious. With this power you can also protect those you care about, prevent further conflict happening between the Knights and Fatui in Mondstadt! Isn’t that everything you dreamed of? Peace for your own family?”

“I already have the ability to protect my family and Mondstadt as a Knight of Favonius. How could the Fatui be any better than that?”

The other Harbingers then turned to face their leader but instead of answering his question, Pierro just said, “you know your father is dead, right?”

Kaeya froze, he didn’t even need to ask which one because he already knew. His birth father was dead.

Kaeya didn’t know whether to laugh or cry. Not that he was sad that the bastard died but more because it felt like all was for nothing. All the worrying and nightmares over what would happen if he abandoned his duty. Shouldn’t he feel relieved at this?

“But that doesn’t mean your duty ends there” Pierro interrupted his thoughts, as if he could read them, he slowly stood up from his seat and walked around the table past the other Harbinger’s towards Kaeya.

“All this time you have been sitting comfortably in Mondstadt, choosing to abandon your duties to your nation. I don’t blame you though, a father should never abandon a child like that and put the wait of an entire nation on their shoulders. I however, will not abandon you Kaeya, I am offering you a chance to pursue vengeance with me, rather than on your own.”

That is complete bullshit, Kaeya thought bitterly, Pierro never cared for him and now all of a sudden he finds out another family member of his dies he wants Kaeya to join him? Kaeya is smart enough to know that the Harbinger is clearly just using him to achieve whatever goal the Fatui has.

The Harbinger now tanding by his side, Pierro leans down to whisper in his ear.

“Do you really believe your family would want you back after seeing who you really are? They are just going to abandon you like the last one…”

His uncle’s words sent chills down his spine. He is right. Diluc now likely knows that Kaeya is from the Abyss and will probably tell their father and the rest of the Knights which could lead Kaeya to being exiled or worse, executed. His stomach churned at the thought, Kaeya had never felt his scared to return to his home.

He cannot go back to Mondstadt. Not now at least.

Even if Pierro is lying, at least he is offering a place for me in this world, Kaeya thought before finally making up his mind.

“Fine” Kaeya looked up at his uncle, “but if you as so much touch Mondstadt or my family I will not hesitate to turn against you.”

“Then it is settled” Pierro said with a satisfied smile then turned to face the other Harbinger’s. One hand on his nephews back and the other extended out, “my dear comrades, please welcome our newest member of the Fatui and serving Her Majesty the Tsaritsa, Kaeya Ragnivindr who will be our new twelfth Harbinger: Brighella!”

Kaeya isn’t exactly sure what the future holds now that he has his new title as a Harbinger, but for now his goal is to just simply survive. Kaeya knows that training with the Harbingers will be much tougher than his training with the knights. The Fatui are cold and unforgiving, just like the nation the organisation originates from.

After the announcement Kaeya’s bounds were taken off and was then escorted to his room by the eleventh Harbinger located in the East wing of the Palace. He will be announced as the new Harbinger to the rest of Shneznaya once he is ready according to Pierro. Kaeya isn’t sure what he means by “ready” but he suspects that he would need to do some training first before becoming a Harbinger.

“So, if you are wondering when you are going to be made “official”” said Tartaglia, as if he was reading his thoughts, “It may take a couple of months since they need to make a uniform for you and also design and forge the possible weapons that you would like to use, not to mention you also get your own delusion which is like a makeshift vision but so much more powerful-“

His voiced then just became a blur in the background. Kaeya could feel his mind disassociating from the world around him. Everything that has happened in the last day from getting kidnapped to being recruited into the Fatui is starting to all get back to him. Is his family really going to hate him that much now that they likely know of his origins? Are they searching for him now? Diluc probably hates him now that he knows of his ties to the abyss, what would his brother do now that he found out that he is a Harbinger? Either his family is going to completely abandon him like Pierro said, which is justified in Kaeya’s books, or they are going to come after him which will just endanger them further.

If he wanted his family to remain safe. Kaeya has to make sure that no one outside of the Harbingers can know he is one of them. He has to keep his identity a secret if he wants to avoid his family coming for him.

“And we are here!” Tartaglia’s cheery voice brought him back to reality when he stopped walking” Since you are number twelve, you’re room will be next to mine! Just keep in mind that it’s kind of empty since it’s the old guestroom, but we can improve the furniture and decorating!”

Tartaglia opens the wooden door to a large luxury bedroom, almost similar to the master bedroom at the winery except more minimalist due to the lack of decoration. There was a large King Size bed in the centre of the room with bedside tables on either side. Behind the tables were large windows with thick dark blue curtains. A cherry mahogany desk sat at the corner of the room, clean and with lots of room for storage thanks to the shelves and draws attached. There was also multiple doors on the side of the room, probably leading to another room.

“You can also get your own office or lab if needed. Dottore and Sandrone have their own for their research and rarely use their rooms anyway. Some of the other Harbinger’s don’t use their rooms and just buy their own mansions. But otherwise, this is your space and no one else can come in unless you invite them! Guards are posted outside the hall for this reason. Oh and you also get your own bathroom too which is on the left and a walk-in wardrobe on the right”

Kaeya was stunned, he didn’t expect to be living this comfortably as a Harbinger. Not to mention this was supposedly the guest room. He wonders what the other Harbinger rooms must’ve looked like.

“There are spare cloths ready for you in the wardrobe if you need to get changed. Oh and no offence comrade.... but you really need to have a shower.”

Taking off the guard’s coat he stole, Kaeya looked down at his Favonius coat and pajamas, the only cloth’s he had on before he was taken here. He was actually quite shocked at how filthy they were considering he didn’t really have a chance to observe them when he went to the prison. He didn’t really take offence from the ginger's words, because he was right. He could really use a shower.

Kaeya watched the teenager in fascination at how exited he seemed to show him around the place. Tartaglia showed him where all the towls are, soap, extra blankets for winter and even helped him light a fireplace.

“These rooms are the only ones that are allowed fireplaces. Be sure to keep it running especially during winter. You are lucky that you came at a time where we are going into Summer though. You training is going to suck a little less at least”

Kaeya smiled, he barely new this guy and yet his chattiness and willingness to show him around comforted him despite the circumstances.

“Why are you helping me, Tartaglia? Pierro never asked you to show me around and yet you did anyway”

“Eh” the teen shrugged, “I don’t really care what that man says. Besides you seemed like you could use some help. Hearing what Pierro said about your family and stuff made me feel kinda sad for you. I love my family to bits and could never imagine them abandoning me”

Kaeya looked down sadly, “yeah, me neither, but thanks for helping me Tartaglia”

“No worries! Oh and also you should call me Ajax, its my real name but I don’t let the other Harbingers call me that”

Kaeya's face perked with curiosity. He is surprised that the boy is willing to allow him to call him his name despite not getting to know him yet. The other Harbingers have likely worked with this kid for some time and even they are not permitted to call him by his name. 

“And what gives me the honour of calling you by your real name, Ajax?” Kaeya asks smiling.

“Because I think you look pretty” Ajax winks, which of course causes Kaeya to flush.

Kaeya shakes his head and quickly changes the topic, “why are you so interested in talking to me anyway? Can’t you go bother your co-workers?”

“I mean I could” said Ajax, “but they are all mean and scary, I don’t like them. Except for Pulcinella, he’s all right but he is also old”

Kaeya chuckled, this guy sure was amusing.

“What about the Tsaritsa? Do you see her often?”

“Not really, no” said Ajax, “although I considered myself loyal to her I don’t see her as often as Pierro does. I mostly take my orders from him; rarely do I take orders from the Tsaritsa herself. She only talks to us personally if she has a more “special” assignment for us”

Interesting, Kaeya thought, I wonder what kind of special assignments they get… or what kind of Assignments I will get.

“But for now,” Ajax continued, “the person you should be answering too is Pierro. He is technically your boss now, but don’t worry most Harbinger’s don’t follow his orders anyway and just do what they can to get paid”

Kaeya nodded, understanding. He then fell back on his bed and stared at the ceiling as Ajax continued to ramble on about the other Harbinger’s in the background. His life may have taken a turn around for the worst but Kaeya is not going to let that stop him. If it means protecting those, he cares about he will keep fighting, even if it means he will never see them again.

"Well I have to head off now" said Ajax, "need to prepare for my upcoming mission! If you need me, I am in my room next door, see ya!"

Ajax exited the room and shut the door before he could reply.

Kaeya sighed and finally decided to pick himself up and freshen up. He might as well get settled in for he is likely to be here for a long time.

Chapter Text

It was a grey and cloudy day in Mondstadt on the morning of Diluc’s 22^nd birthday, a fitting climate for the anniversary of his brother’s disappearance. No light shone through the windows at sunrise to bask him in warmth. Instead, he was just now a cold lonely young man, not having the energy getting out of bed and eat breakfast with his father.

He closed his eyes again, hoping to catch up on sleep that he never gets, of course, he is unsuccessful for no matter how tired he is his thoughts do not let him rest.

Ever since the day Kaeya went missing, Diluc had never celebrated his birthday. He would receive a nice breakfast from Adelinde when he eventually came downstairs and some gifts from a few friends and other aristocratic families but refused to celebrate or host parties since his birthday isn’t something he would celebrate without Kaeya.

Diluc still thinks back to the night almost every day of his life and has barely slept because of it. And when he does sleep, he has nightmares of one day coming across his brother’s rotting corpse, dumped in a ditch when the Fatui were finished with him.

During his day over the past four years, he would spend all of his waking moments trying to find Kaeya. He would interrogate many Fatui in the city, invade camps for any information and even went as far as to torture any soldiers while off duty. Of course, all of his attempts to find him fail. Kaeya was nowhere to be found.

After two years, Varka finally decided to close the case and Kaeya was pronounced dead. The Grand Master assured him it was for the best but Diluc of course couldn’t stop the rage from getting to his head and nearly damaged Varka’s office furniture before he was escorted out. Diluc of course had no opportunity to convince Varka to reopen the case, since a week after that he left for his expedition, leaving Jean in his place.

Crepus of course didn’t react well to the news either, he didn’t react in anger the way his son did, instead he would cry alone in his office until he passed out. The maids would have to wake him up and take him to bed, Diluc wants to comfort him but isn't sure if he is in the right headspace to do so.

As for Adelinde and Elzer, Crepus ordered them to take a month of paid leave after the announcement. Unlike the other winery staff, the two had a deep connection with the boys. Elzer was like their uncle and Adelinde their aunt. To have one of their boys missing made working much harder than easier, yet no matter how tough things got the two remained at the winery to care for the boy that they still have.

Ever since then, Diluc has left the knights, deciding that there was no point in being one if he can protect the one person, he swore to keep safe. He decided to help his grieving father keep his business running. Crepus is all Diluc had now, and he believes that it is best if the two stuck together while they grieve. He was able to remain strong since he didn’t fully believe Kaeya was actually dead, something deep inside of him tells him that his brother is alive and out there somewhere, just waiting to be brought home.

Diluc also decided to keep his mouth shut about how he got teleported into the winery that night. He may have been barely conscious at the time, but he still vividly remembers a dark blue aura surrounding him and then engulfing him before falling into the safe walls of the winery. Whenever he was question about it, he just replied saying he didn’t know since he passed out and the knights left him alone ever since.

However, something deep inside him told him to tell his father. Crepus may still be sad his son is gone but Diluc has been noticing his father has started to recover from his grief. He figures that now may be finally the time to tell his father about what he saw Kaeya did that night, he isn’t sure if its going to change anything but something deep inside him tells him it’s the right thing to do. He owes his father that much anyway.

Finally having the motivation to get out of bed, Diluc decides to head to his father’s office before going to breakfast, rip the band-aid off early and tell his father the truth.

Crepus was of course, alone in his messy and unkempt office. Ever since Kaeya died, he struggled to keep himself organised and on his feet. Taking care of the winery has never been so hard even with Diluc’s help. Adelinde would come in to clean it once a week, but it was all pointless.

Diluc gently knocked on his father's door and waited for his response. "Come in," his father called out, and Diluc slowly opened the door and stepped inside.

Crepus was sitting at his desk, poring over some papers. He looked up and gave his son a small smile. "Good morning, Diluc. Happy birthday, I left you a present downstairs."

His father didn’t look to well, he never did ever since his son went missing. Crepus would try to give Diluc a comforting smile when his older son would notice the man not looking to well, but Diluc knows better. He can see through his father’s smile that he is exhausted. His hair and beard were messier then usual and his eyes were baggy due to lack of sleep. Crepus has been working himself to the bone in managing the winery and finding his son and it has taken its toll on both his mental and physical health.

Diluc nodded and returned the smile, “thank you father, but there is no need.”

 However, despite the redhead’s efforts to appear fine, there was a heaviness to his expression that his father picked up on immediately. "Is everything alright, my son?" he asked, concern etched into his voice.

Diluc hesitated for a moment, then took a deep breath and spoke. "Father, I need to tell you something. Something that I've been keeping to myself for a long time." He paused, gathering his thoughts. "It is about the night Kaeya went missing; I knew how I got into the winery.”

Crepus frowned, “what do you mean?”

“You remember how I told you how I had no idea how I ended up back inside the winery that night?” his father nodded in response, “well that was I lie… I knew exactly how I ended up back there.”

“Diluc…” Crepus didn’t hide the disappointment in his voice, but his expression was sympathetic “you do realise by withholding that information you were staling the knight’s investigation of finding you brother”.

“I know,” Diluc’s expression made it clear he was guilty, “but the last thing I wanted the knights to suspect is that Kaeya… is someone dangerous…”

Crepus’ eyes widen in shock “what-“

“I can explain” Diluc cut him off, “I was out the back of the winery when Kaeya and I were attacked, the Fatui pinned me down and I was sure I was going to die but I have a reason to believe Kaeya saved me. I was barely conscious, and my body was sore all over, but I could see this dark swirling mist around him, like some kind of power and before I knew it I was falling in the winery and Kaeya was gone.”

Crepus sat up straight in his chair, his eyes widening. "What? Diluc, why have you kept this from me? From Varka?"

Diluc shook his head. "I don't know. I was scared, I guess. And I didn't want the knights thinking Kaeya is our enemy. The ability to teleport me to another location would raise to many suspicions" He took a deep breath, then continued. "Father, Kaeya was trying to protect me that night. He knew something bad was going to happen, and he wanted to make sure I was safe"

Crepus was silent for a moment, then leaned back in his chair and sighed heavily. "I always suspected something like that," he said softly. "I am afraid there is something I must confess too. I kept it a secret for so long because it was not mine to tell but, considering the current circumstances I believe it’s necessary”.

Diluc froze, “what do you mean?”

“The night that Kaeya was left here by his father, I knew something was up” Crepus figeted nervously, “it is quite common these days for young children from other nations to be left by their families as a way to spy on said nations.”

Diluc’s heart stopped, he felt faint hearing the news, no not Kaeya… not his little brother.

“When I saw those eyes…” his father’s voice wavered, a small tear fell down his face, “I just… knew. I knew exactly where he was from. Only a certain group of people have pupils the shape of a four-pointed star… Kheanri’ahns. But in that moment, I saw him I didn’t see a spy from the abyss, I saw a child who was lost, cold and scared. I couldn’t leave him, so I brought him in. I felt like the boy deserved a family, whether or not he is from a nation destroyed long ago”.

There was a brief silence, Diluc was completely speechless. How could Kaeya’s father do such a thing to a child that young? Kaeya was only 6 when he was left at the winery. No child should be burdened with such a mission. And for so many years, Kaeya has been keeping this secret to himself out of fear that his family would abandon him again. And now Kaeya is gone, and Diluc is never able to assure him that he is forgiven, that he is still their family. Kaeya probably died thinking his family no longer wants him.

Crepus continued, “I have reason to believe that the abilities that Kaeya used on you that knight might be some kind of abyssal power, but this is the first I heard of it. Kaeya has never demonstrated strange powers, but he most certainly had strange behaviors as a child…”

His father didn’t need to go into detail, both of them knew how Kaeya was like as a kid. He was not only shy but also scared. Like every time you tried to talk to him, he would act as if his head is about to be bitten off.

“Well…” Diluc sniffled, whipping a tear from his face, “that certainly explains a lot.”

Crepus chuckled, but the sadness in his expression remained, “it certainly does. Thank you, by the way, for trusting me and telling me what happened that night.”

“I want to thank you too” said Diluc, “for also telling me the truth, I cannot blame you for keeping it a secret.”

“Well…” said Crepus, “like I said it was never my secret to tell, Kaeya was always a shy and quite one as a child, but his fear didn’t go unnoticed. I could tell that he was scared that we would find out his secret, even though I already knew. So I did everything in my power to assure him that he doesn’t have to be a spy, which is why I decided to adopt him then.”

Diluc smiled sadly when his father mentioned Kaeya’s adoption. He would describe it as one of the best days of his life. After the loss of his mother, Diluc felt lonely in the winery, there was Adelinde to take care of him, but she was always busy with chores. However, when Kaeya arrived, everything changed and Diluc finally had a friend, a brother, someone who he swore to protect.

They had a big celebration when Kaeya was welcomed into the family and gained the surname Ragnivindr. He had never seen Kaeya so happy before. For the first time since the two have met, Kaeya no longer looked scared.

There was a knock at the door, “it’s Elzer” the man behind the door spoke.

“You may come in” said Crepus.

“Good morning, Master Crepus, and happy birthday young master Diluc. The Acting Grand Master, Jean, asked me to give you this," he handed them a litter, "there is a rumor going around that a Harbinger is to arrive in Mondstadt, and she is offering some of her knights to stay and guard the winery in case there is another attack.”

“Thank you, Elzer, you may leave.”

“Do we really need knights here?” said Diluc, “I can protect the winery myself, some Fatui are not that hard to handle.”

“I don’t think they would be sending ordinary Fatui soldiers to Mondstadt, Diluc” said Crepus, “with a Harbinger here they are likely to send their best bodyguards and soldiers.”

Diluc scoffed, “as if those cowards need bodyguards. Harbingers are more the capable then handling themselves”.

“I hope you do not plan to get into any fights, Diluc” Crepus spoke firmly, “you are not a knight anymore so there are no excuses if you chose to attack a Harbinger.”

“I won’t attack him,” said Diluc, “but I will if they chose step out of line.”

Crepus sighed, “well, looks like I can't stop you there, just don’t get yourself arrested.”

Diluc huffed, “no promises there, which Harbinger is it anyway?”

“Their new twelfth, Brighella” said Crepus reading the letter, “this is the first time he has come to Mondstadt, apparently it is for diplomatic reasons. Considering its their lowest ranking Harbinger I doubt the Fatui would want to start any fights.”

“A Harbinger is a Harbinger father” said Diluc, “no matter how high or low the ranking they are all dangerous.”

“I suppose you are not wrong,” said Crepus, “this Brighella fellow tends to keep a low profile, he has never even shown his own face publicly”.

Diluc scoffed, “damn coward won’t even show his own face. He must have a lot to hide”.

“Well, considering how you would react to a Harbinger being in this city I can’t really blame him” Crepus muttered.

“Are you seriously defending a Harbinger, dad?” Diluc yelled “his organization kidnapped Kaeya and attacked our home!”

“I am not defending him, Diluc,” Crepus retorted, “I am simply stating how he behaves and who he is, you might want to pay attention to that before you chose to get into a fight with him.”

Diluc shut his mouth at that. His father was right. If he wanted the Harbinger out of his city, then he has to be careful.

“What else do you know about him?” Diluc asked carefully, voice quieter this time.

Crepus seemed to relax a bit more now that his son is no longer yelling at him, “he is a sword user and carries a pyro delusion but rarely uses it since he prefers to keep quiet, only using his power when necessary. There is not much else to talk about his abilities since he is more discrete than the other Harbingers.”

Which is exactly why Diluc is so suspicious of the Harbinger’s presence in Mondstadt in the first place. Who knows what kinds of places the twelfth Harbinger would sneak into to stir up trouble.

“Don’t think it is anything I can’t handle” Diluc replied, “at least he is not a hydro or electro user or that would cause a few problems”.

“For you, yes, but you and I both know destructive Pyro can be, you should ask all the curtains I had to replace when you were a teenager”.

Diluc’s cheeks flushed in embarrassment at the memory, “I am much more in control now than when I was younger. Taking this Harbinger on should be no problem.”

His father sighed, “just be careful Diluc. And remember, only attack him, if necessary, you are not a knight anymore, so you do not exactly have the authority to start fights with Fatui. Not to mention, the Fatui would not be impressed if you assaulted one of their Harbingers.”

“Of course, I will just be in the city to keep an eye out for any trouble” Diluc turned to exit out of his father’s office.

“Good” said Crepus nodding, before looking at Diluc with a concerned expression, “and please, just remember to be careful, I do not want to lose another son to the Fatui”

Diluc faced at his father with a sad expression before closing the door, “I will, father…”

Chapter Text

Yesterday

Tomorrow is April 30th which will mark four years since Kaeya was announced to become the new Harbinger “Brighella”. His life has changed immensely ever since his brother’s 18^th birthday, but not in the way he wished.

Kaeya knew that he wasn’t going to remain in Mondstadt forever, he knew that his past was going to catch up to him in a way he wouldn’t expect it. It was time for him to move on from his previous family, for better or worse.

During his time with the Fatui Kaeya would be going through intense training with the other Harbingers. Pierro would teach him how to utilise his abyssal powers, allowing Kaeya to develop his ability to teleport and use his delusion. However, the problem with his powers is that they can be quite draining, and Kaeya would often find himself sleeping for more than eight hours after any training session with his uncle. So whenever in battle, Kaeya only used his abilities for emergencies.

While Kaeya is an official member of the Harbinger’s, most consider him to still be in training, especially since he is yet to receive a highly important mission from the Tsaritsa. Keaya is still yet to meet her despite living in the palace for four years.

Currently, his missions are mostly stealth ones which involve sneaking into places and getting out quickly. Kaeya uses his abyss portals to infiltrate places such as the Fatui’s opponents. Sometimes to steal some important documents or to eavesdrop, other times it is to assassinate anyone opposing the Tsaritsa within Snezhnaya’s borders. Kaeya hides his true intentions and Harbinger personality from the enemy with a layer of charm and elegance which allowed him to sneak into parties or balls without any disguises. He found it easy to get people to like him since he is able to almost immediately know what others expect of him.

While in his Harbinger role, Kaeya has kept his real identity a secret. The only people that know who his identity are the other Harbingers, no one else in the Fatui know who he truly is. Whenever out on missions Kaeya’s uniform as “Brighella” consists of a black hooded cloak with a Navy-blue mask similar to Ajax’s covering his face. Kaeya has kept his eyepatch, since it reminded him of his time at the Ragnivindr’s playing pirates with Diluc when they were children. The memory may make him sad, but he still wanted to show that the people he truly cares about are always with him, even if he chose to move on. When choosing his delusion, Kaeya selected a pyro one, as it reminded him of his brother's pyro abilities. Pyro was also a useful element to have with you when living in a place as cold and harsh as Snezhnaya, although Kaeya was sure to not fully rely on his delusion since its effects can drain ones vitality. Some are better and handling such power more then others.

Kaeya also made sure to keep a low profile as Brighella. Although the announcement of the new Harbinger is something all of Teyvat knows, Kaeya has avoid making any outstanding presence whenever he visits any other nation. He didn’t like making himself the “talk of the town” and avoided making big headlines or have any large presence in conflict unlike the other Harbingers who are much more well known across the continent.

While training in Sheznaya, Kaeya liked to spend most of his time with Ajax doing sparring sessions. Sometimes they would practice with their own delusions, Kaeya has chosen a pyro one since the element reminded him of his brother, even though for his types of missions a hydro or electro one would be more useful. However he doesn’t need to use his delusion unless absolutely necessary because thanks to his training with Ajax, Kaeya is now highly skilled fighter, even if he is still a lower ranking Harbinger.

Today, Ajax and Kaeya were standing in the sparring arena on a cold spring morning, the outside air was cold and bitter, but the walls of the arena blocked out any harsh winds, allowing for the two to focus on their fight and now worry about their surroundings. The pair are holding their respective weapons. Kaeya was armed with a slender one-handed sword, while Ajax held a pair of hydro blades in each hand. They had been training together for some time now, and each knew the other's moves and fighting style well.

Kaeya and Ajax have been getting along quite well for the past four years and after doing many training sessions and missions together the two have become close friends. It was rare for two Harbinger’s to get along nicely since most of them would argue and bicker. However, since Ajax and Kaeya were able to get along so well their missions would often be highly successful when completing and they have rarely failed.

The sparring began with a flurry of quick movements, as Ajax rushed forward with his blades flashing. Kaeya dodged and weaved, his movements graceful and fluid as he parried the attacks with his sword. Tartaglia was quick and agile, but Kaeya was even more so, moving with a dancer's grace as he fought.

As the sparring continued, Ajax found himself getting more and more excited. He loved the thrill of battle, the feel of his blades slicing through the air. He enjoyed the challenge of sparring with someone as skilled as Kaeya.

"Come on, Kaeya!" he shouted, grinning as he darted forward again. "Let's see what you've got!"

Kaeya smirked, his eyes flashing with amusement as he dodged another attack. "You really should learn to control your bloodlust, Ajax," he said, "It's going to get you into trouble one day."

Ajax laughed, his eyes shining with excitement. “Ah, but I can’t help it! Especially when up against you”

This is quite normal behaviour for their sparing sessions. Flirtatious banter A simple match where neither of the two use their delusions and Kaeya avoids his abyss magic.

The two fighters continued to spar, each landing blows on the other as they danced around the arena. Ajax had more offensive moves, while Kaeya was more defensive, relying on his agility and grace to avoid his opponent's attacks. Although he is a lower ranking Harbinger, Kaeya managed to hold his own against the more aggressive Ajax, his skill with a sword proving to be a formidable match for Tartaglia's hydro blades.

As the sparring session drew to a close, Kaeya managed to land a particularly well-placed blow that sent Tartaglia tumbling to the ground, sword pointed at his throat. He found himself laying still at the sight of Kaeya looking down at him with a smirk on his face. Ajax felt something flutter in his stomach but he brushed it off.

"Nice one," he said, his eyes sparkling with admiration. "You really are something else, Kaeya."

Kaeya smirked, sheathing his sword. "Flattery will get you nowhere, Ajax," he replied. "But I'll take the win."

Ajax laughed as Kaeya helped him to his feet. Then he heard some slow clapping coming from the side of the Arena, his uncle Pierro walking in from the sidelines with a grin on his face.

Kaeya’s smile fell, the last person he wanted to see right now was his uncle. Keaya never really liked training or taking orders from him even if he doesn’t have a choice. Pierro doesn’t necessarily treat him cruelly but he certainly has no respect for Kaeya as a person.

“You have improved immensely, Brighella” ever since it was announced, Kaeya’s uncle has only addressed him by his Harbinger name, “I have some good news for you, I spoke to the Tsaritsa this morning and she wishes to see you for an assignment.”

The two Harbinger’s eyes widen in surprise. The Tsaritsa finally wishes to see him after all this time? Kaeya was completely speechless and failed to say anything in response, so it was Ajax that broke the silence.

“Well, you have certainly impressed a couple of people today, looks like I am not the only one that admires your skill” Ajax leaned up against Kaeya, smirking when he saw the former knight blush at the praise.

“Tartaglia is right Kaeya” said Pierro, “the Tsaritsa only gives special assignments to Harbingers she believes are the best at completing it successfully. She watches over us Harbinger’s to understand our methods of completing certain tasks. She has told me that your ability to control your teleportation powers has improved and will be highly valuable to the organisation, not to mention your combat skills are on par with our eleventh here thanks to his training.”

Ajax smiled proudly. He may not consider himself loyal to his boss but receiving praise was always welcome. Kaeya did feel grateful that Ajax was the one helping him survive and train with the Fatui. If it weren’t for him, not only would Kaeya be lonely but also quite possibly dead.

"She requested to meet with you today" Pierro continues, "if you follow me, I can show you to her throne room." The man begins to walk away, gesturing Kaeya to follow him.

“Well, I better not keep Her Majesty waiting” said Kaeya, voice wavering due to the nervous feeling in his stomach, “I will see you later, Ajax.”

Ajax gave Kaeya an assuring pat on the shoulder, "I will be waiting outside the throne room for you." 

Kaeya smiles and then follows Pierro out of the arena, not focusing on his surroundings as he mindlessly walks behind his uncle. Instead, he tries to focus on his breathing to mentally prepare himself for meeting the Cryo Archon for the first time. He knows that this upcoming mission will not be easy, and since the Tsaritsa requesting him for it, he cannot afford to fail.

Chapter Text

Kaeya has never been to Zapolyarny Palace’s throne room before. Most throne rooms would be much warmer and grander, with guards and members of the royal court alike in the area however the Tsaritsa’s case is much difference.

Not many go to the Tsaritsa’s throne room. The only people known for seeing her on a daily basis are some royal guards and Pierro himself. The Tsaritsa only makes public appearances when there are on special royal occasions. But otherwise from what Kaeya has heard, she has not made a public appearance since the Fatui was established and the Harbinger’s have been the ones making public announcements and appearances.

When arriving at the large door to the throne room, Pierro stops, turning to face Kaeya.

“When you enter you are to walk at a moderate pace, and once you arrive at the bottom of the platform near the Tsaritsa’s throne you are to kneel down and not make eye contact with her. It is best to look at the ground”, Pierro’s tone was firm, warning Kaeya to make sure to do as he says “make sure you do not get distracted and be sure to listen to every word she has to say. You are not to ask any questions when she tells you your mission. Once she dismisses you, silently exit. Any questions about your mission are to be brought to me.”

Pierro nodded to a guard standing by who walked up to the two heavy doors and pushed them inwards, opening into a large hall. He didn’t wish Kaeya luck or give him a pat on the back, he just simply nodded signaling him to entre.

The large doors shut once her entered. Kaeya observed the ice that covered the walls and ceiling that reflected every movement he made, perfectly visible from the back of the room where the Tsaritsa sat on her throne on the platform. Each step Kaeya took echoed across the large hall making him feel small. He hated how much his presence stood out due to the only people present in the room are the Tsaritsa and her guards. He felt like his every moved was being watched carefully and the second he stepped out of line he wouldn’t even be given a second to justify himself.

The Tsaritsa’s icy gaze fell onto him, sending a shiver down his spine. Her eyes were an icy blue and her skin as pale as snow. Her lips almost looked purple as if she herself was cold but was never bothered by it. Her straight her was long and white, barely contrasting with her skin, aside from the blue tips near the end. She wore an outfit similar to that of the Harbingers, but with grander and more detailed a white coat but instead of a black fluffy collar it was a pale white with hints of light blue. Her gown underneath hid her feet from view, cascading down the stairs to the Throne in front of her. Kaeya was surprised that she is wearing a coat despite being the Cryo Archon. Perhaps she is wearing it to show her affiliation rather than for the cold.

Kaeya kneeled down in front of her, as instructed by Pierro before he entered. He was told what to do and say when he first meets her, he cannot afford to mess up. His head was bowed, and one hand was over his chest while the other behind his back.

“You wish to see me, you’re Highness” Kaeya spoke plainly, making sure not to show any sort of fear in front of her.

“Why of course” the Tsaritsa’s voice was cold and sinister, “I have been watching over you for some time Brighella, you may not see me, but the ice allows me to see many different reflections from across the palace”.

Kaeya snuck a glance at the light blue shaped diamonds swirled around the Tsaritsa’s hand, each showing images of different members of the Fatui on the Palace, Kaeya got a glimpse of Ajax waiting outside the throne room. The Tsaritsa’s power almost reminded him that of a Mirror Maiden but Cryo. He quickly ducked back down when the Tsaritsa's icy gaze turned back towards him.

“I have watched you’re fight with the eleventh this morning while the Jester was meeting with me” said the Tsaritsa, “after you defeated him, I knew that you would be a perfect candidate for this task that I have been wanting to hand out to my Harbinger’s for a while.”

“I am honored to be chosen by you,” said Kaeya, “how my I serve you?”

He once again flicked his eye up to look at her expression and the Tsaritsa smiled, satisfied with his response. Kaeya felt a wave of relief knowing he is not on the Archon’s bad side.

“I am soon going to give the other Harbingers a similar task to yours. I have chosen five others to go to the other nations and obtain what is known as a Gnosis from each Archon of the respective nations they are sent to. I have chosen you to go to our first target, which is Mondstadt. You are to go there and retreave the Anemo Archon’s Gnosis”

Kaeya suddenly raised his head after hearing his old home mentioned, after all of this time he is finally going back to Mondstadt. Over his years with the Fatui, Kaeya avoided any contact with the nation of freedom in fear that he would have to face hi family again. Now he is going back there, and he is going to steal and Archon’s Gnosis.

A diamond shard swirled around the Tsaritsa, displaying an image of what looked to be a gold chess piece with hints of turquoise. The chess piece was a queen, once of the most powerful pieces in the game, which is kind of ironic since the Anemo Archon is considered to be the weakest of the seven.

“Your task requires you to find the identity of the individual Bartbatos is hiding as a bard. Unlike some the other archons he doesn’t make himself known to the public, he prefers to live amongst his people since that is his idea of freedom. If he has kept the same form from when we last met he should have the appearance of a young bard” she presented an image of what seemed to be a young adult boy with dark green hair and turquoise braids, “You can use any preferred method to acquire the Gnosis even making a deal with the Archon himself. If you have to use any force to get Barbatos’ Gnosis, just simply strike him below his chest, and you should be able to grasp his gnosis”

With a wave of her hand the Tsaritsa’s diamond shard dissolved into light blue particles

“You are to go to Mondstadt tomorrow, and I expect you to complete your mission within the next two months, use whatever means necessary even if it means breaking our contract with the Knights to stay in the city, you are dismissed”.

------------

Kaeya didn’t really remember getting up and leaving the room, his mind was too busy racing. His new mission clouding his thoughts.

Tomorrow? But isn’t that supposed to be Diluc’s birthday?

Kaeya may not be celebrating his brother’s birthday on the 30^th, but he normally finds himself mourning over leaving his family whenever that date rolls around. The Tsaritsa must’ve chosen him to do this task on purpose. Pierro has likely told her of his past, both before he met the Ragnivindrs and during his time with them. It cannot be a coincidence that she has chosen him to return on Mondstadt on his brother’s birthday.

Kaeya felt himself come back to his senses once Ajax’s obnoxiously loud voice interrupted his thoughts when he was outside the throne room.

“Oh, Archons you’re back! Did you receive your mission?” Ajax’s eyes were lit up with excitement which got a small chuckle out of Kaeya. Despite the circumstances, Ajax’s adorableness helped comforted him.

“Yeah, I did... she is as about as intimidating as I expected.” he said scratching the back of his head nervously.

“Well, what is it?” hearing the question, Kaeya’s expression became solemn.

“I am to return to Mondstadt tomorrow for my mission,” said Kaeya.

Ajax’s face fell, Kaeya had told him about his past and his family history. The two share a bond unlike any of the other Harbingers so it was easy for Kaeya to open up to Ajax about his past “oh right… sorry comrade I shouldn’t have asked.”

“No, it's okay” Kaeya gave him an assuring smile, “I will be fine, it is just a bit to take in since it is so long since I have been home.”

“I won’t say I fully understand but I do get it” said Ajax, “I always find myself overwhelmed returning home after many years away from them, I barely see my family now. But not matter how long I am away from them; they still remain the most important people it my life.”

Kaeya smiled sadly, “thank you, Ajax”.

The ginger nodded as a way of saying “your welcome”.

“Is it okay if I ask what your mission is?” the eleventh asked curiously.

“Yeah… apparently I am supposed to steal the Anemo Archon’s Gnosis,” Kaeya spoke casually, thinking that this kind of mission would be expected for most Harbinger’s who see the Tsaritsa.

However, Ajax’s eyes widened in shock, “seriously? That is huge Kaeya! The Tsaritsa must be highly impressed by your skills if she asked you to target an Archon!”

Kaeya frowned, “I do not know if that is a good thing or not.”

“Of course, it is a good thing!” He was clearly more excited than Kaeya was about this, “she is asking you to steal something from a god! No one has ever received this kind mission before”

“Oh no the mission itself is fine I guess…” Kaeya said shaking his head, “I mean the fact that she chose me to take Barbatos’ Gnosis in particular. She told me that she was going to get other Harbingers to go to other nations so why not send me to Sumeru or any other nation? She knows of my history in Mondstadt and knows that I have family that I haven’t seen in four years since Pierro has likely told her. There has to be something more to her choice other than my skills”.

Ajax shrugged, “maybe it is because you used to be a knight there and she believes you know the city better than anyone. I mean Signora is also from Mondstadt but she hasn’t been there for some time and the city is likely to have changed then.”

He does make a good point, Kaeya thinks, but as much I wish that to be the reason the Tsaritsa chose me a part of me says that there is more to it than that.

“I appreciate the assurance, Ajax, but regardless I still don’t feel good about this” Kaeya said looking at this feet, feeling uncomfortable about the whole mission. In the back of his mind he is mostly worried about having to face Diluc and his father again, he may keep his identity a secret but if he reveals his alter ego by slipping up in front of his brother, it will likely blow his whole cover and Diluc will probably tell the knights about his identity.

His breath then hitched when his racing thoughts were interrupted by a hand being gently placed on his shoulder. He looked up from the ground to meet Ajax’s dull blue eyes and comforting smile.

“It is okay if you are not ready to face your family again Kaeya. As long as you complete your mission you should be okay. If you need any assistance in Mondstadt feel free to bring me along. I will gladly hand over any of my current assignments to other Habinger’s looking for an extra pay check. They are all just a bunch of boring diplomacy missions anyway, I hate it when I am not allowed to fight something. Besides it might be a good opportunity to buy my younger brother some children’s toys from another nation!”

Despite his nerves, Kaeya did feel better at the comfort Ajax gives him. Being with the Fatui for the past four years and not seeing his family has taken a toll on him but Ajax has been there for him for the whole time. They are now really close friends and give each other company when it is needed most. Snezhnaya is a cold and unforgiving place and Ajax has been the furnace keeping Kaeya warm and in some ways, safe.

“Thanks,” said Kaeya, “but this is something I have to do on my own. If I end up seeing my family then it is up to me to face them and the consequences I could receive”

Ajax nodded, satisfied with his answer, “I am glad to see that you are willing to do this on your own. Now, enough of the sappiness, it is time to celebrate your first major mission! I have snuck some drink into my room if you want some~”

Kaeya chuckled and crossed his arms, “I don’t know if I should be drinking on the night before my first major assignment”.

“Eh” Ajax wave his hand, “you can sleep it off on the long ride there.”

“I appreciate it Ajax, but I will have to decline” said Kaeya, “but I won’t mind spending some time with you before I leave. Maybe play some TCG?”

The other Harbinger’s face lit up, he grabbed Kaeya by the wrist and dragged him off to the dorms.

The Next Morning

Kaeya slowly opened his eyes, wincing as the bright light of morning flooded into his room. He groaned and rubbed his forehead, trying to recall what had happened the night before. Then, memories of the long game of TCG with Ajax came flooding back to him. Right, he must’ve gotten tired and fell asleep midgame.

As he sat up in bed, he felt something heavy on his arm. Looking down, he saw Ajax sleeping beside him, his arms wrapped tightly around Kaeya's arm, half of his face buried in his sleeve.

At first he just stared at Ajax’s peaceful expression. The sun coming from the window reflected off his pale skin bringing out the orange freckles scattered on his cheeks.

Kaeya lost control of his thoughts; He looks so pretty. I almost want to kiss-

Kaeya blushed, feeling his heart race. He sighed, he really needed to keep those thoughts in check, he cannot allow his own dumb feelings get in the way of his missions. He gently unwrapped Ajax's arms from around his arm, careful not to disturb his friend's peaceful slumber.

He quietly picked up the scatted cards and die in the room, making sure to keep his and Ajax’s cards separate.

Just then, there was a loud knocking on his door. "Lord Harbinger! Your carriage to Mondstadt has arrived!" the voice from one of the guards outside his room called out, Ajax stirred but did not wake up.

Oh right, his mission to Mondstadt. Today was the day.

Today was also his brother’s birthday.

Kaeya decided to shake the thought away. He didn’t want to think about Diluc, he should’ve moved past that by now. Right now, he just needed to focus on his mission.

Kaeya quickly got dressed, putting his mask and cloak on and made his way to the door, leaving Ajax sleeping peacefully in his bed.

He smiled at Ajax sleeping peacefully. He will certainly miss the Harbinger’s company for the time being.

“See you soon, Ajax” he said, and quietly exited.

Chapter Text

Mondstadt’s afternoon sun gleamed through the window into her office. Her shift was supposed to end an hour ago, but unfortunately, she has to stay behind for some extra work and a meeting. A meeting that she wished she didn’t have to do today.

Acting Grand Master Jean was leaning on the front of her desk, waiting patiently for the visitor expected to arrive today.

She was only informed about the Harbinger that is going to visit her today via a letter from the leader of the Fatui, the Jester. It was brief, explaining that Brighella is to arrive and offer her a deal in order for the Fatui to be on better terms with the knights.

The Knights and the Fatui chose to keep conflict to a minimum, but that didn’t change the fact that tensions were high. The attack on the Ragnivindr’s four years ago caused a divide between Mondstadt and the Fatui. Most citizens used to find them shady and untrustworthy, but due to the attack, there have been many economic sanctions placed on Snezhnaya and the Fatui, and laws that forced many of the Fatui members out of the city.

Since the Knights are short-staffed, it is important that Jean keeps track of the number of Fatui members in the city, making sure to keep the numbers below 100, to make it easier to keep track of what they are up to.

Meeting with one of the new Harbingers is one of the last things Jean wishes to do right now; dealing with Fatui’s matters has always been her least favourite job, especially since the night they took her best friend. She can’t help but feel this boiling anger rising inside her every time she thinks about them.

She would rather be at the winery, spending time with her friend Diluc; his birthday has always been a hard day for him, so every year, she made sure to show up to the winery and spend lunch or dinner with him and Crepus, unfortunately for today she had to cancel those plans, because the Fatui thought it would be a good idea to schedule a meeting with the Acting Grand Master on the former Calvary Captains birthday and the anniversary of Kaeya’s disappearance.

But just for today, she had to keep her emotions in check. Being the Acting Grand Master meant staying calm and polite, even if it meant talking to someone she didn’t like. Mondstadt is more important than her personal life, after all.

She wondered what this Brighella could want from Mondstadt.

Jean stood up straight when she heard the door click and open. Finally, the visitor arrived. Jean sized him up as he approached. He was tall and lean, with dark blue hair. He wore a long coat that concealed his frame and a mask that hid his face from view.

"Welcome to Mondstadt," Jean said, extending her hand. "I am Jean, Acting Grand Master of the Knights of Favonius."

"A pleasure to meet you, Acting Grand Master,” Brighella said in a smooth, accented voice. "The nation of freedom certainly knows how to be hospital to its guests."

Jean paused when he heard his voice; something about it seemed familiar… which raised many suspicions. She wish the Harbinger weren’t so secretive about his identity. Many other Harbingers are confident in revealing their faces to the public and making quite the appearance. Brighella, however, wasn’t the case. Jean knew a bit about him, and from the reports she received on Harbinger’s activities, she could tell that this man’s actions were discreet compared to the others.

"Now I am sure we both know why you are here; please take a seat” Jean gestured to the chair in front of her desk as she walked to sit on the other side.

"Why of course," Brighella replied smoothly, sitting down. "I have come to discuss matters of mutual interest between the Fatui and the people of Mondstadt."

Jean narrowed her eyes. That has got to be a lie. The Fatui never cared about the needs of other nations; they only cared about themselves. Whenever they offer these kinds of deals, something more is happening. She was not going to be made aware of what the Harbinger’s true intentions were.

"I see," Jean said, her voice laced with scepticism. "And what are these matters of mutual interest?"

Brighella hesitated for a moment, choosing his words carefully. "We are interested in housing more of our diplomats in the area," he said at last. "We believe that there is much we can offer each other. The Fatui, of course, will be willing to lend the knights of Favonius some assistance keeping your city safe since most of your staff are away on that expedition. That is if, in return, you allow members of the Fatui to buy more property in the city, preferably on the northern side where the Goth Grand hotel is located.”

Jean didn’t respond, clearly still deep in her thoughts. This was a huge offer. The Harbinger is correct; the knights of Favonius could use all the help they can get but allowing the Fatui to have a larger presence in the city could lead to problems with sovereignty. Mondstadt is a city of freedom, with no monarch or leader. To have a strong presence in a nation that has a monarchy and is known for being quite authoritative over its citizens, could be dangerous, especially with citizens affiliated with the Laurence clan willing to do what it takes to become the rulers of Mondstadt once more. The last thing Jean wants is for the people to turn against her and the knights.

There are just way too many negatives.

"I will consider your proposal," Jean said, "but I must ask that you provide me with more information about the Fatui and your intentions in Mondstadt. We must ensure that any agreement we make is in the best interests of our people."

"I understand your caution, and I assure you that the Fatui has only the best intentions for Mondstadt." Brighella’s tone was convincing, but Jean didn’t buy it.

“Now I apologise but I am afraid we have to cut this meeting short” Jean spoke firmly, desperate to get the Harbinger out of her hair, “you have given this city an offer that can change many things around here and I am afraid I need some time to think about it. I well send a letter to Snezhnaya once I made my decision.”

“Of course, Acting Grand Master” The Harbinger gave a small bow with his head, before standing up and heading for the door.

Jean watched as Brighella left, her suspicion growing with each step he took. She couldn't shake the feeling that there was something off about him, something that he was hiding. She resolved to keep a close eye on him and to find out what he was really after.

Kaeya sighed in relief exiting his old friend’s office.

He could tell at some point during that conversation that Jean was being suspicious of his behaviour, but thanks to his acting skills, she hasn’t seemed to catch on that it is Kaeya yet.

Before leaving Snezhnaya, Pierro had requested Kaeya to make a deal with the knights to establish a larger presence in the city, Kaeya was of course against it, but Pierro didn’t seem to give him a choice.

“I wouldn’t go against my orders, Brighella, your own home is on the line here,” the Harbinger said with bitterness in his voice.

Kaeya did do as he was told and was relieved that Jean decided to “think about it” rather than say yes right away. Kaeya always knew she was smart; she definitely earned her role. He just hoped that she will deny their request when Pierro receives her message.

Kaeya’s two bodyguards were waiting for him outside the Favonious headquarters, even though he preferred to work alone and in secret, Pierro specifically requested that he would take them while he is in a larger city. Although to be honest, Kaeya believes that the bodyguards were more there to keep an eye on him rather then protect him.

“I need one of you to go send a letter to Pierro to inform him that despite my efforts to convince her, the Acting Grand Master does not seem willing to make a deal with us yet. We need more time.”

“Yes Lord Harbinger” one of the guards saluted and marched off.

“And you,” Kaeya said, facing the other guard, “thank you for your service, you are now granted a week of paid leave”

“But Lord Pierro-“

“I do not care what Pierro’s orders were for you, he is not here now. All you have to worry about is me. If Pierro has any issue with this if he finds out, I can deal with him,” Kaeya isn’t usually this aggressive with his subordinates, but when it comes to those whom his uncle sends, he couldn’t give less of a shit.

The guard sighed, “Yes, Lord Harbinger”, and walked away.

With his two “bodyguards” off his back, Kaeya can freely explore the city and find the Anemo Archon. He luckily caught a glimpse of his appearance back in Snezhnaya when he spoke with the Tsaritsa; however, he knows that an Archon who chooses to live among the people will not make himself too obvious.

Kaeya decided to start with the tavern, Angles share. He wouldn’t do the Cat’s Tail since his uncle informed him that archons are allergic to cats. No one knows why that is; Kaeya believes it is hysterical that Archons would be allergic to cats of all creatures.

When the sun started to set, Kaeya deemed it appropriate to head to the tavern since most patrons spend time there after work.

However, once arriving at the front door, Kaeya found himself hesitating before entering. It has been four years since he has last been inside the tavern. Last time he was there he was celebrating his brother’s coming of age. He wondered if Diluc and Crepus were already in there celebrating his 22^nd birthday. Kaeya wasn’t sure if he could face them again after all these years.

“Oh? Is someone a bit shy tonight” a cheerful voice chirped behind him, Kaeya turned and faced what appeared to be a young bard… their attire was quite feminine, and their overall appearance was androgynous. Kaeya couldn’t help but notice they had an Anemo vision attached to his hip.

Why would Celestia give some bard an Anemo vision?, Kaeya thought to himself, unless…

Kaeya froze when he got a better look of the bard’s face. He recognised those eyes and that cheeky smile, the Tsaritsa herself showed him.

This bard is Barbatos, the Anemo Archon.

The archon tilted his head, his eye glinted with mischief but also friendliness, “come on,” he indicated to the door, “since I have some money left, allow me to buy you a drink stranger, everyone who walks into the City of Freedom should taste some of the Dawn Winery’s fine wine.”

The bard gently pushed passed him to open the door to the tavern, Kaeya cautiously walked inside. The space hasn't changed one bit since he left here. The tables and chairs were in the same familar position, the bar still had some of those old wine bottles Crepus would leave on display. Kaeya felt a wave of nostalgia hit him observing the space, it almost made him feel sad. He could see many customers inside and to his relief, no Diluc or Crepus, which gave him one less thing to worry about.

“Charles!” The bard cheered, walking up to the counter, “mind giving us two Dandelion Wines? My new friend here needs to give it a try.”

Charles sighed, pouring the wine out into two glasses, sending a glare towards Kaeya, “You know Master Crepus isn’t found of Fatui being in the tavern, Bard.”

Kaeya decided it was best to not comment on that. He isn’t sure if he should be upset that he isn’t welcome in his family’s business or if he is grateful that Crepus and Diluc seem to resent the Fatui rather than him.

“Oh, but Charles, it is a known rule that we should welcome all into the City of Freedom!” Venti gestured to Kaeya.

The bartender huffed, “Fine, but if Master Diluc or Crepus arrive and want him out, I am kicking him out.”

The bard giggled, “Why thank you, Charles.”

Charles just grumbled in response before turning away to continue his job.

Kaeya sat down next to the Archon, quietly, not saying a word to the bard yet. He is already hyper-aware of the bard’s actions since he is the Anemo Archon.

Now it is just a matter of getting the Gnosis.

Kaeya isn’t exactly sure of what to say to the Archon in order to get it. He has always been good with negotiations thanks to his charming manner, but he isn’t so sure about convincing a god to give up a sacred item.

Not to mention, before he came to the Ragnivindr’s, Kaeya has always been told to never trust archon.

Kaeya decided to just simply sip at his wine as the Archon chatted away about Mondstadt’s history and whatnot, Kaeya didn’t really bother paying attention since he knew about everything thanks to the lessons he would share with Diluc.

Kaeya made sure to savour the taste of the wine, the taste of his home. Due to the Winery’s conflict with the Fatui, Mondstadt wine doesn’t get shipped out to Snezhnaya anymore. It is rare that Kaeya gets to have this drink. He never had Dandelion wine when staying with the Ragnivindrs since he was too young, but that didn’t change how much the smell and taste reminded him of the days when he and Diluc would often sneak around in their father’s cellar for games and hiding snacks.

Lost in his train of thought, Kaeya didn’t notice the bard stopped talking and watched the Harbinger with a found expression as if he knows what Kaeya is thinking about.

“So, what do you think of the wine?” the bard’s question finally snapped Kaeya out of his thoughts.

“It is lovely, nothing like what we have in Snezhnaya, thank you” he replied, voice quite.

“Ah so he finally speaks!” Barbatos grins, “then I suppose I should mention that I got something for you~”

The bard reached into one of his pockets and placed an item in front of Kaeya. It was a plain white queen Chess piece; Keaya was a bit confused at first as to why the bard would give him one chess piece unless it is a sign of the god threatening him since the Queen represents a powerful position. However, upon closer inspection, Kaeya could sense elemental energy coming from it. A lot of elemental energy that is.

“Wait is this- “Kaeya indicated towards the Chess piece.

The bard nodded, “I figured that she would come after it sometime, so I thought it would be best to save you the trouble and just give it to you. Keep it hidden though, that magic that I used to disguise it won’t last forever” he winked.

The harbinger was completely taken by surprise at how willingly the Archon gave away his gnosis. He expected him to put up a bit of a fight, since Gnosis are not common items that gods would just throw away.

“But why? Why give it to me so… casually?” Kaeya picked up the chess piece.

The bard’s expression soften, a gentle smile crossed his lips, “because I know who you are, Kaeya, and as a child of this city I have watched over you for some time now and I saw that the Tsaritsa gave you this mission. I would gladly give it to you if it meant protecting you from her. She is not so forgiving of those who fail her. If it were any of your other Harbinger friends, I wouldn’t be giving it away so easily, but in the end, it is just a Gnosis. It is not like my power is going to be stripped away or anything. My concern is with Mondstadt and its people, not Celestia”

To say Kaeya was surprised that the god recognised him would be an understatement. The Archon knew it was him as Brighella this whole time. Ever since he was taken, Barbatos has been keeping an eye on him, because he considers Kaeya to be a child of Mondstadt, no matter what his ancestry may be.

“But aren’t I your enemy? You are aware of my ancestry and whom I work for, yet you call me a child of this city? What if I was to turn against you?”

Barbatos’ teal eyes had a faint glow when he looked up at the Harbinger, “No matter the circumstances, I shall not bring harm to a child of Mondstadt with my own hands, any conflict you cause in this city is to be resolved between you and Mondstadt’s people. Including you, I gave them the freedom to choose. Now it is your choice on what you want to do with my Gnosis.”

Kaeya sighed and smiled gratefully behind his mask, “Thank you, Barbatos.”

The bard giggled, “Call me Venti, and you are most welcome.”

The night was cold when Kaeya left the tavern. The streets of Mondstadt were dark and poorly lit. Kaeya doesn’t remember the city streets being this barren before. Weather it be the middle of the night or day, the streets would be bustling with people and knights, but it appears that since Varka has left and most of the Fatui were kicked out of the city, things were quieter the usual.

The knights were of course lazy, according to Kaeya’s observation. Most of them are sitting outside the tavern, completely drunk out of their minds while the rest were off duty, resting at home which left very few to patrol the streets at knight.

Unbelievable, Kaeya thought to himself, a Harbinger walks alone at night and they don’t bother to have anyone keep an eye on him.

It is a shame that Diluc is no longer the Calvary Captain, when he was in the position, he would’ve gotten those drunkards in line. Diluc always hated it when his knights were “inefficient”.

However, despite his disappointment in the knights, Kaeya isn’t completely mad, he was able to complete his mission within a day, after all.

Now that he has the Gnosis, it is safe to say that he is satisfied that he was able to complete his mission so swiftly without any trouble whatsoever. He was worried that he would have to cause more trouble which could get the knight’s attention and call off the deal he had with Jean, which would then upset Pierro.

Kaeya tucked the Gnosis away in his cloak, safe from view. Venti warned him that the magic on it will wear off soon to reveal the real thing, so it is best to keep it hidden for now.

The Harbinger sighed and started to slowly walk away from the tavern, being mindful of his surroundings. The people of Mondstadt are not exactly fond of Fatui (rightfully so) so he needs to be cautious.

Kaeya suddenly stood still when he spotted a figure in the shadows, he couldn’t exactly make out what the person look like, since their dark clothing kept them well hidden.

“Care to explain why you were in my father’s tavern, Harbinger” The figure spat out the last word.

Kaeya’s heart stopped when he recognised the voice. The dark figure then stepped into the light, his claymore lit up, infused with Pyro.

Diluc’s red eyes were fierce and angry as if he was about to strike down whatever stood in his way “I will make you pay for what you did to my family.”

Chapter Text

Diluc heard rumours that a Harbinger is currently having a drink with a bard inside Angles Share. His rational side told him to just ignore it and that Angles Share is a public space and everyone is welcome to have a drink there.

However Angles Share is also his family’s business, and the last thing he wants is a Harbinger of the organisation that kidnapped his brother to be in there. Fatui didn’t deserve to enjoy a drink at his father’s tavern, not after everything they have done.

The sun was setting and the city of Mondstadt was about to go back to their homes, safe in bed. It is good that there are not many citizens and knights out and about since it allows Diluc to snoop around the city without being noticed.

He waited out at the side of Angle’s share, waiting in the darkness for the Harbinger to leave the tavern. He is going to have to have a chat with Charles about letting a Fatui into his family’s own tavern.

The door to the tavern opened and the Harbinger stepped outside. Diluc remained in the darkness and waited for the Harbinger to be a bit further from the tavern to prevent any property damage for what he might do.

His father had warned him not to get into any fights, and Diluc was well aware that doing so could lead to consequences. But truth be told, he never really cared. He wanted the organisation that took his brother to pay for what they have done, so he would gladly take out one of their new Harbingers.

Brighella was supposed to be the “weakest” of them all, it shouldn’t be too hard.

The Harbinger tucked something into his cloak and slowly walked down the streets, of course, he was looking around for anyone who could be following him or ambushing him.

Well, at least he is no stupid, Diluc thought.

Now that he was a couple of meters from the tavern, Diluc decided now is a good time to confront him.

He pulled out his claymore, flames licking the blade, and the Harbinger flinched, immediately noticed him slowly walking towards him.

“Care to explain why you were in my father’s tavern, Harbinger?” Diluc spat.

The Harbinger before froze at the words, as if he is terrified of what he might do next, good, Diluc thought. He wanted him to feel exactly what his brother felt. Kaeya was probably lost, scared and hurt right now. Diluc couldn’t handle the thought of his brother, who was always at his side supporting him, being so helpless. He will make sure to make the Fatui pay for what they have done.

“I will make you pay for what you did to my family” he raised his claymore and then swung it across, aiming for the Harbinger’s head.

All Diluc saw was red, his mind was clouded and all he could feel was the burning rage and the desire for vengeance. Each blow he made was aimed to strike the Harbinger down, but in response, Brighella just simply dodge, not drawing his weapon or using his delusion.

Brighella was agile and quick, a perfect counter for Diluc’s slow yet impactful attacks. The redhead felt his frustration grow as the Harbinger continued to dodge, not bothering to fight back.

His opponent’s moves felt familiar in a way, the Harbinger would dodge each of Diluc’s attacks as if he knew the redhead’s fighting style.

Diluc couldn’t help but feel he fought this person before.

He then focused more on his vision, the flames on his claymore growing and with each strike, he sent the flames barrelling towards the Harbinger. Brighella rolled out of the way, the flames catching on the Harbinger’s cloak, which he tossed aside immediately, snuffing out the flames.

Diluc then took the opportunity to strike the Harbinger from above, his flaming claymore barrelling down at Brighella’s head.

However, before his claymore could finally strike him, the Harbinger pulled out his sword, blocking the claymore with a loud clang.

Brighella then shoved Diluc back with his sword, disarming him and sending his claymore flying behind him.

Diluc didn’t bother running and grabbing the weapon, instead, he resorted to his vision and his bare hands. Running forward he aims for the Harbinger’s head, Brighella wasn’t fast enough this time, leaning back, just barely dodging Diluc’s blow. The second Diluc managed to grasp the Harbinger’s mask he yanked his hand back, shattering the mask with his bare hand.

The Harbinger was on the ground, facing away from him. He turned his head to face his attacker.

Diluc felt his heart drop when he saw the face of the masked Harbinger.

He had the same eye patch that he would wear when they were kids. A single lilac eye with a star shaped pupil that he would never forget about. His hair flowed out from his hood which he pulled away, fully revealing his identity.

“K-Kaeya?”

“Kaeya i-is that… you?” Diluc was shaking, a single tear trickled down his cheek. The man fell on to his knees infront of Kaeya in complete disbelief.

It is unusual for Kaeya to see Diluc cry, yes his brother is usually more emotional in terms of Anger, but rarely was he ever this sad. Diluc would normally get frustrated when things didn’t go his way, rather than sad. The only times he could remember seeing his older brother cry was when Kaeya was accidentally hurt and Diluc felt guilty for not saving him.

Did Diluc feel guilty for not rescuing him from the Fatui?

“Diluc I-“ Before Kaeya could continue speaking he was brought into a crushing hug.

The Harbinger flinched at first, but the redhead’s grip was strong, clinging onto him as if he will never let him go ever again.

“I can’t believe it” Diluc sobbed into his shoulder, “I thought I would never see you again…”

Kaeya’s arms wrapped around his brother, allowing himself to have this moment. For years he wanted to get over Diluc and Crepus, but no matter what, he cannot move on from the people who showed him true family love for the very first time.

Diluc then pulled away inspecting his brother’s face as if he was checking to see if he was hurt, “where have you been Kaeya? Dad and I have tried everything to find you and this whole time… wait, why are you dressed as a Harbinger?”

Kaeya’s expression was washed with guilt. He pulled Diluc’s hands off him and stepped away.

“I can’t explain now Diluc, I have to go.” His voice was cold and harsh. He hated how Diluc still cared about him, after all this time.

His brother’s expression fell, “What- no, Kaeya, you can’t just leave! I just got you back…”

Kaeya tried to hold back the tears when he heard his brother. He wanted nothing more but to return into the safe and warm arms of his family and spend the night at the winery and just forget about the Fatui all together.

After picking up his cloak, he turned to face his older brother one last time, he noticed his uncle’s agents coming up behind him, but Diluc hasn’t noticed them yet.

He needed to return to Snezhnaya.

“I am sorry, Diluc, I do wish things were different.”

Diluc was then pinned onto the ground by the two agents, “get off me! NO KAEYA WAIT!” he cried out.

Kaeya called upon his abyssal powers and swirling dark blue portal appeared in front of him. He thought now would be a good time to say what couldn’t be said four years ago, he faced his brother one last time, who had the side of his head pressed into the concrete, struggling in the agent’s grip.

“Goodbye, brother, and… Happy Birthday” He stepped through the portal.

He didn’t look back at his brother when the agent knocked him unconscious.

Chapter Text

Kaeya collapses onto the floor as soon as he steps out of his portal. His heart was still pounding from his encounter with Diluc, his eyes darted around the room, and he soon realised that he was back in Snezhnaya, in his own quarters. It was the only safe space he had at the moment, so of course this is the first place he thought of.

He could feel himself hyperventilating, his heart was beating incredibly fast. His face felt warm from the flames of Diluc’s claymore, he never saw his brother this consumed by anger before. If Kaeya’s mask didn’t come off, he would for sure be killed.

It has been so long since he had last saw him. He knew Diluc would be angry seeing a Harbinger or Mondstadt but he has never seen so much hatred in his eyes before. Kaeya has never felt so scared of his brother before.

However, despite all that, Diluc still hugged him and asked for him to come home, even if he believed he never deserved it. He doesn’t understand how he could forgive him so easily. Kaeya is literally the enemy and yet Diluc still loves him.

Kaeya heard some knocking at his door, followed by an alarmed voice, but he was too busy trying to control his breathing. The thoughts of him abandoning his family and leaving them to grieve swarmed his mind. Why is he here? How could they forgive him? What is he suppose to do?

A loud noise came from behind him, the door banging against the wall as it flung open, quick footsteps and someone was at his side, gently placing their hands on him.

“Just breath, Kaeya, you’re going to be okay…” Ajax said in a soothing voice, rubbing a hand gently on the other’s back.

Kaeya eventually slowed his breathing and leaned into the touch. He may have calmed down from his panic attack, but that didn’t stop the tears from pricking in his eyes and slowly sliding down his cheek.

“Can I hold you?” Ajax asked carefully, Kaeya nodded and the other wrapped his arms further around him in a firm yet gentle hug, as if he were to protect him from all the cruelty in the world. Kaeya never allowed himself to be this vulnerable in a long time. He hasn’t had someone close to him that he could trust but for the first time in four years, he felt safe and protected. Ajax has never hugged Kaeya like this before, it felt so warm and gentle, he wasn’t aware that he was practically burying his head into Ajax’s chest, as if he never wanted him to let him go.

He quickly pulled away and whipped the tears from his face, embarrassed of the emotional display in front of Ajax. Kaeya noticed the concerned look in the other’s expression and felt a wave of guilt hit him. He never liked concerning those he cares about with his problems. He’d rather keep to himself.

Kaeya is not the type to display his emotions or seek comfort from others. He never felt like he deserved it. But with Ajax, something about the man allows him to feel more vulnerable and open with his emotions. Despite the Harbinger’s affiliation and loyalty to the Tsaritsa, Kaeya feels like he can trust him.

“Sorry about that, just h-had a rough mission” Kaeya sniffled.

“Hey, no need to apologise,” Ajax assured him, “we all have rough days and besides, returning to Mondstadt after all this time, it must’ve been tough. What happened there anyway?”

Kaeya went over what happened in Mondstadt. He explained how the Archon willingly gave him the Gnosis, saying he didn’t want the Tsaritsa to hurt Kaeya. Ajax was surprised by this but also glad that the archon is able to assure Kaeya that he sees him as a child of Mondstadt. Kaeya then went on about how his brother attacked him and then his mask came off, revealing his identity to him.

“I see…” said Ajax, looking down, “I am sorry that happened to you. It is hard being away from your family all this time. At least you got the Gnosis right?”

“Yeah…” Kaeya went to grab the Gnosis from the pocket of his cloak and suddenly froze when it was not there.

“Kaeya, is everything okay?” the eleventh’s expression washed over with worry.

“It’s gone” Kaeya gasped, hands franticly searching every pocket in his outfit. “I must’ve dropped it during the fight when I ripped my cloak off…”

“Oh, Archons…” Ajax’s hands were starching his head in disbelief, “What are you supposed to say to Pierro… to the Tsaritsa! Kaeya, if he finds out-”

“Wait…” he looked up, “I have an idea. Do you, by any chance, have any chess pieces?”

“Um yeah it is quite a popular game amongst us Harbingers… but why? I know the Gnosis are supposed to look like chess pieces, but wouldn’t it be pretty obvious that it is not a Gnosis?” Ajax knew what idea Kaeya had, but he didn’t look too sure about it.

“When Barbatos gave it to me. It was just a simple white Queen chess piece. He told me he didn’t want to draw any attention to our conversation, so he disguised it.”

“Right…” Ajax frowned, “but wouldn’t you be able to tell if it was real via the amount of elemental energy radiating from it?”

“Yes, I did notice it when Barbatos first gave it to me. This means if we were to make a fake, we need to find some kind of being that uses Elemental energy, specifically Anemo.”

“But even if we were to say, obtain Anemo energy and disguise the chess piece…” said Ajax “What happens if it fades? The Tsaritsa should be able to see past it.”

“Well then, we are just going to simply not give it to the Tsaritsa until then. This solution will only be temporary, so we are just going to have to give Pierro the fake, informing him that I have completed the mission successfully. I know I am a good liar so that part should be easy. He will likely not give it to the Tsaritsa until the next time he visits her, which is in a week. We can return to Mondstadt and obtain the real one during that time. If I left it out on the street, then either Diluc has it, or Barbatos got it back. Either way, I know where to find both of them.”

“Look, it is great you have a plan, but the Harbinger’s Banquet is in two days. I am unsure if you can do what you did all over again within a day and we still do not know if your identity has been exposed to the public. For now, we need to stay in Snezhaya. Not to mention, you do need a new mask and cloak.”

Kaeya glanced down at the burnt ends of his cloak. Diluc’s flames were able to burn off most of the bottom, but nothing that could not be fixed easily. His mask shouldn’t be any trouble either since the Fatui has many spares that their soldiers use.

“That should be fine; after that we still have time. Transportation shouldn’t be an issue since I recently discovered I could teleport to Mondstadt.”

“Yeah, speaking of which, I have never seen you teleport that distance before. That trick of yours is for sure getting useful” Ajax grinned.

Kaeya smiled sadly; while he agreed with Ajax’s statement, he still didn’t enjoy his abyssal powers. It makes him feel like he is tainted like he doesn’t belong in this world because of his heritage. Barbatos may have called him a “child of Mondstadt”, but that didn’t change the fact that he struggled to believe it.

“I am not sure how I did it” he finally replied, “but after my fight with Diluc, all I could think of when I conjured the portal was that I wanted to get somewhere safe. The first place it took me was here. I was relieved that I am somewhere where I can’t get hurt but… what if this means Mondstadt is no longer safe for me?”

Ajax gently placed a hand on his shoulder, “Look I know this may sound bad but… you are a Harbinger now. Mondstadt doesn’t exactly have positive views on us, you can’t really blame them though. Even if Barbatos says it is your home it still doesn’t make it any less dangerous for us Fatui. But as long as we stick together, we should be able to take care of ourselves; we watch each other’s back.”

Kaeya nodded gratefully, “Yeah… we do make a pretty good team.”

Ajax then stood up and extended his hand, “Come on, we better get that Anemo monster, I wanna kill something! Then we can face Pierro together.”

Kaeya laughed. Of course, Ajax was eager to get out and fight some monsters. At first his bloodlust and violent urges made him wary of him but after a while, he learnt that Ajax can be quite a caring and friendly guy, if you are on his good side that is. Whenever the eleventh has sudden violent urgers or the desire to fight something, Kaeya would go out with him and spar or let Ajax come with him on his missions.

He took Ajax’s hand and was pulled off the ground. Being with the Fatui may not have been how he wanted his life to go but with his friend around… things were not so bad.

Chapter Text

Diluc’s eyes opened, his eyes stung and his vision was blurry but from taking in his surroundings, his head was pounding from whoever knocked him unconscious..

He rubbed his eyes, trying to focus more on his surroundings. Judging by the familiar surroundings of Mondstadt’s city, his attackers seemed to have left him alone.

 There was no one in the area, most of the knights are probably too drunk to notice a man passed out in the middle of the street and the rest of the city are asleep. Diluc tried to retrace his steps and see if he could remember how he ended up in the city of all places.

His memory was scrambled, trying to focus on what happened, when he suddenly sat up in the realisation, suddenly trying to push himself off the ground.

“Kae-!“ he stumbled whilst trying to get up, face falling into the rough cobblestone. He stood up too fast which cause the blood to rush to his head and fall over. He took a few deep breaths, trying to focus on not passing out. His head was still spinning from hoever knocked him unconscious, most likely some fatui agents that have been assigned to protect their Harbinger.

Eventually, he pushed himself up off the ground, dusting off his clothes and observing the area. The portal that Kaeya walked through was gone… meaning that he had failed in getting his brother back.

He got up he couldn’t help but notice an intense among of Anemo energy radiating in the area. The wind was brushing his cheeks lightly, coming from the same spot Kaeya had left. Diluc walked closer towards the source and then he noticed a small white chess piece, it was a Queen. Diluc has heard of vision holders leaving traces of elemental energy on objects, but he has never seen something this intense before.

He decided to pocket the strange chess piece, and the air around him went still. Maybe it is something that can tell him about Kaeya. He doesn’t exactly know if it will, but after four years of searching for him, he needs to use what he can.

“Diluc!” He turned to see who was calling him. Jean came running towards him, her clothes were uneven and scrunched like she just chucked them on, her hair was also tied up in a lose ponytail, bits of hair falling out, like she just got out of bed and didn’t bother to get ready.

She was looking around frantically at all the burn marks on the concrete. Good thing Diluc moved the fight away from the buildings or things could’ve been a lot worse.

“What in the Archons is going on!?” Jean cried, kneeling down to his level, and checking up on her friend, “Are you all right? I heard all this noise and saw Fatui running down the street… did they hurt you?”

Diluc got up, his expression grim, “I’m sorry, I got into another fight with them” he half lied.

Jean sighed, muttering something under her breath, probably calling him an idiot. He stiffened when she went in and hugged him tightly, “I’m just glad you’re okay…”

He sighed and wrapped his arms around her, “Sorry for waking you up.”

She chuckled in reply, “Maybe you should tell that to everyone on the northeast side of the city.”

Yeah, he did cause quite the commotion fighting Kaeya. Hopefully, the neighbors won’t file so many complaints that the knights will investigate him, again…

Jean decided to walk with Diluc back to the manor. He protested, of course, saying he can get back there on his own, but she insisted. She doesn’t say it out loud, but Diluc believes she is just finding an excuse to make sure he doesn’t start a fire, or just keep an eye on him in general.

He didn’t make any mention of Kaeya or the mysterious chess piece in his pocket. He does trust Jean, but she is known for being incredibly loyal to the Knights and is currently the Acting Grand Master. Diluc isn’t exactly sure if he can trust the Knights after they dropped his brother’s case. He is also worried about how Jean would react to the news of his missing brother being the new Harbinger, Brighella. So right now, it is best to keep it a secret from her.

They arrive at the winery, and Jean said that she will part ways with him there and head back to the city, he invited her to stay the night to rest but she claims that the city likely needs her anyway. The knights on the night shift are probably going to start checking out those burn marks.

“Don’t worry” she assured him, “I will make sure to come up with an alibi for you in case they think you are a suspect”

Diluc bowed his head gratefully, as the Acting Grand Master, Jean doesn’t normally go out of her way to hide evidence in a case, “Thank you, Jean, I do owe you one.”

The Acting Grand Master chuckled, “Absolutely you do. I might not be as lenient next time.”

And with that warning said she left.

Diluc cautiously knocked on the door of the winery, he silently hopes that his father won’t be too angry at his activities tonight. Crepus has made it clear that he didn’t want his son getting into any trouble.

He thought about what he should say to his father and has decided to tell Crepus the truth. His father wasn’t a knight and will be more willing to protect Kaeya then the knights. But that is not the only reason Diluc is willing to tell him. Crepus has suffered just as much as he did from the loss of his brother. If anything he deserves to know what has happened to Kaeya just as much Diluc did.

Besides, Crepus knew about Kaeya’s past and they were both able to trust each other with a secret in regards to Kaeya’s abyssal powers. Diluc feels that he can trust his father with the news of Kaeya being a Harbinger.

He knocked again and then heard footsteps frantically coming towards to open it. It was probably Adelinde, he also hoped he hadn’t worried her too much. Not just because he doesn’t like seeing her stressed but she tends to play the roll of “mother” whenever she is worried, always fussing over him.

However, to his surprise, he was greeted by his dad.

“Oh Diluc…” he pulled his son into a hug, fingers in his hair and his hand running down his back, Diluc hugged back tightly in response, burying his head in his father’s shoulder, “I saw smoke coming from the city, I am so glad you are okay…”

He then pulled away and crossed his arms, his expression suddenly serious, “But if I see the knights knocking at the front door tomorrow I will confiscate your claymore!”

Despite everything, Diluc smiled, “It is good to see you too Dad. Sorry for… getting into more fights.”

Crepus sighed, and gestured to his son to walk inside, closing the door behind them, “I do forgive you I just worry, after everything that has happened I cannot lose another son.”

The mention of his missing brother always made Diluc experience a wave of guilt every time he cause trouble. He hated worrying his father, his life is already stressful as it is. Not to mention, if he found out about Kaeya

Diluc’s eyes widen, “that reminds me, I actually have something really important to tell you but…” he looked around that all the staff cleaning up the winery, “we have to do it privately.”

"Of course" Crepus nodded, "we can speak in my office"

Diluc watched his father sit in disbelief after telling him the news. He just about expected this response from Crepus. The man had struggled to take care of himself for the past four years and now he finally receives news about his youngest son after waiting for a long time.

“I-I can’t believe it” he stammered; his eyes watery. He took a deep breath to prevent himself from sobbing uncontrollably in front of Diluc.

“Are you sure he is the new Harbinger?” Crepus asked after gaining some composure.

“Positive. He was wearing the same outfit as described by the Acting Grand Master. Not to mention the design of his clothes is similar to the majority of Fatui attire”

“Oh, Kaeya… what are you doing” the old man sighed, sounding exhausted. Hearing that Kaeya has joined the organisation that took him away from them was never going to be good news. But at least they both know he is alive.

“But I don’t think he is the bad guy here” Diluc spoke quickly before his father’s mind went somewhere else, “we cannot tell the knights about any of this or they would see Kaeya as an enemy. There has to be more going on here, he is likely to be working with the Fatui against his will.”

Crepus nodded in agreement, “I do trust Kaeya, and you as well. I am just worried about how we can bring him home, or why he hasn’t come home yet. You mentioned to me about his portal abilities, so why can’t he just teleport back home?”

Diluc looked down sadly, “I don’t know, but I did find something that Kaeya dropped when he left.”

He took the chess piece out of his pocket and placed it on his father’s desk. A light breeze drifted through the room, which was strange since all the windows are closed.

“This chess piece has an intense amount of Anemo energy radiating from it. I am not sure what it means but maybe it can give us answers as to what is going on with Kaeya and why the Fatui want him.”

Crepus picked up the piece, inspecting it, he was about to say something in reply but was interrupted by a knock at his door.

“Come in” he quickly tucked the chess piece away.

Elzer stepped in, “Apologies master Crepus but it appears that a young bard has appeared at your front door and said that he needs to speak with you urgently. Said that he knows about some “chess piece” that Master Diluc is carrying”

Chapter Text

Ajax and Kaeya managed to gather all they needed for the fake Gnosis. Using some anemo slime condensate, they were able to rub off the elemental energy onto the chess piece. It wasn’t much but it was convincing, and should hopefully last up to a week.

“So, I take it this is the Gnosis you were asked to retrieve?” Pierro eyed his nephew suspiciously after he gave him the fake. Kaeya had a feeling this would be his response since all he gave him is a plain chess piece. 

Kaeya nodded, plastering a fake smirk on his face “Yes sir, Barbatos had the audacity to trust me since I am a so-called “child of Mondstadt”. He was kind enough to disguise his Gnosis and draw less attention to me. But don’t worry, it will wear off by the time you give it to the Tsaritsa”

Kaeya decided it was best to not completely conceal the truth from his uncle, in order to properly lie you have to at least tell half the truth, that way the lie can appear somewhat convincing. Not to mention, being one of the founders of the Harbingers, Kaeya had a feeling that Pierro was an excellent lie detector. He had to be if he works for the Tsaritsa.

Pierro smiled proudly, “You have done well, Brighella. I can see why the Tsaritsa chose you. Having Barbatos trust you and be willing to help you with your missions for the sake of your protection is highly useful. I suggest we should take advantage of something like that more often. Archons are not very trusting of us Harbingers, but with Barbatos on your side, that could give us a lot of power”

Kaeya did his best to hide the wave of relief that washed over him and smiled in response, “Indeed you are sir”

With the fake successfully in place, Kaeya and Ajax have one more day to kill before the Banquet and then they are free to go back to Mondstadt and retrieve the Gnosis. Kaeya was anxious to come up with secondary plans in case things go haywire and Pierro ends up discovering that the Gnosis is fake, Ajax just wanted to find a way to get the man to relax.

“We should take this opportunity to go see my family!” Ajax suggests the two Harbingers were in Kaeya’s room discussing plans, “I would love for you to meet my siblings, they mean the world to me”

Kaeya smiled, “I do see you writing letters to them. I suppose it is appropriate I should get to know the people you talk about so much since we have been friends for this long”

Ajax nodded in agreement, “I have told them about you, so don’t worry, you will not be a complete stranger when you meet them”

“Ah, so you have told them about me” Kaeya grinned, “I sure do hope that what you have said is mostly positive”

A light shade of pink dusted Ajax’s cheeks, “Y-yeah, Tonia did say she would love to meet you sometime. I was planning to see them later this week but since we plan to go to Mondstadt I decided an early visit would be appropriate, and this time you can join me!  My family are great cooks, but just remember, do not mention we work for Fatui, especially in front of my siblings. As far as they know, we’re traveling toy sellers”

Kaeya's expression became concerned, “why do you lie to your family about that?”

Ajax sighed and smiled sadly, “Well, my parents know that I am a Harbinger and I haven't exactly told Tonia and Anton but I have a feeling they know since Tonia is always telling me to he careful in her letters. However, the youngest, Tuecer, is still a kid and I want to protect his innocence while I still can. No matter what, he cannot know that I am a Harbinger. Sometimes I do wish it wasn’t a secret but at the same time when it comes to the people you care about, you would rather not tell them anything because the last thing you want is for them to lose their love for you, even if you do not believe you deserve-” Ajax froze and his eyes widened for a moment, “...sorry I didn’t mean to ramble”

Kaeya shook his head, “no need to, I get the feeling though”

“Really?”

“Yeah… When my adoptive father first took me in I was scared because I remember my biological father telling me how the people of Monstadt couldn’t be trusted… So at first, I took all their kindness as simply manipulating me into trusting them and letting my guard down until one day, he actually adopted me and called me his son, as far as I was aware, people do not usually go out of their way to adopt you just to let your guard down. I couldn’t believe it and for the first time I felt as though I could trust them” he then paused and took a breath to prevent waves of emotion from taking over him, “But I had a secret, which you already know, and I felt that if I told them, they would lose their love for me”

Ajax smiled sadly, “hey, if it makes you feel any better, at least we have each other, since we both know what it is like to keep deadly secrets from our family”

“Yeah,” Kaeya agreed, “but I don’t know if things can remain the same for me since my secret is kind of out in the open…”

Ajax looked down, unsure how to respond, “I can't say it will be, but I don’t think your family would straight up hate you, you have been with them much longer than you have been a Harbinger after all”

Kaeya didn’t respond but felt grateful to hear someone say that. He really wants to believe his family still cares for him since they are all he had when he was growing up. After his encounter with Diluc, Kaeya has never felt so conflicted. He could see in his brother’s expression that he missed him, maybe Ajax is right.

Once the sun sets, the pair take a carriage out to Morepesok, a seaside village where Ajax’s family lives. Ajax used to tell Kaeya how he and his family would often practice fishing and has become highly skilled in cooking seafood. Kaeya doesn’t mind seafood, growing up in a rich family he has eaten his fair share of well-cooked but also strange meals. Some he liked more than others. He wonders what Senzhnayan food tastes like.

They arrive at the village and Ajax dismisses the carriage and asks them to pick them up in the morning. The family has a guest room that they are willing to use for both of them and Ajax thought it would be nice for Kaeya to rest at a place other than the palace.

Ajax knocked on the door of his family's large home. It is by no means a mansion, even if Ajax can afford one, his family prefers to stay by the ocean in a smaller house rather than near the palace.

The house was mostly made of dark wooden logs with double-glazed windows that had obscure glass. Kaeya could see faint golden light radiating from the inside. He shivered, eager to get into the warm and cozy home.

The door opened to an older woman who wore a long winter dress that only just touched the floor and an apron that showed signs of her working away in the kitchen. Her hair and eyes looked exactly like Ajax’s except her hair was tied back into a ponytail and her eyes were less dull.

“Ah Ajax, my dear boy!” she went in to hug her son tight, who in turn reciprocated. The woman, who is most likely Ajax’s mother, Kaeya assumed, turned to face him and smiled politely, “And you must be Kaeya, Ajax has told me all about you!”

“Please to meet you, ma’am,” he shook her hand.

“Pleasure is all mine, and please, call me Kira” She leads the two of them inside.

 “Feel free to sit down, my husband, Andrei and I have almost finished cooking so dinner will be served soon!” 

The pair went inside and felt a wave of heat hit them as they shut the door to the cold world outside. Kaeya felt so warm and cozy. The House itself didn’t have a grand entrance or a large ceiling like the manor and winery back in Monstadt, but it had the appropriate space for a family of six.

The entrance opened up to the kitchen which was adjacent to the dining area. The kitchen had large benches that had all sorts of cooking utensils scattered on and above them, demonstrating the family’s passion for cooking. Andrei and Kira were working away in the kitchen. The dining area had a somewhat large table, fit for several guests and a crackling fireplace to help heat up the room.

Kaeya made sure to sit near the end of the table so he wouldn't have to find himself squeezed between two people and the only person he had to sit next to was Ajax. As comfortable as the environment was it didn’t change the fact he was quite socially anxious and felt like he was intruding on a family dinner.

“I like your house, certainly warmer than the palace” Kaeya finally spoke.

“Yeah, the Palace is easily one of the coldest parts of Snezhnaya since that is where the Tsaritsa resides, it is always nice to come here after being at work”

“So Kaeya,” Kira spoke, bringing some appitisers to the table, “you must be pretty high up in the Fatui’s ranks to be working with Ajax”

Oh right, Kaeya remembered, they didn’t know he was Brighella.

“Yes he is my personal agent” Ajax spoke up, winking at Kaeya, who felt relieved that he got himself a cover.

“Yep” Kaeya nodded, “I am with Ajax on all his missions, I have been working with him for the past four years”

“Well I can see why you too a friends, you certainly spend a lot of time with each other” she smiled, the suddenly looked like she remembered something, “oh right! Ajax, you have told him about Tuecer…”

Ajax nodded, “don’t worry he is well aware of our ‘toy selling’ occupation”

Kira sighed in relief, “Thank you, Ajax, I will call down your siblings now, they are very excited to meet you both! Tuecer, Tonia, Anton! Dinner’s ready and there is someone here to see you!”

“Brother!” Kaeya heard an excited voice cheer from upstairs. Three people came running down the stairs, one teenage girl, who must be Tonia, and two young boys, the smallest was holding onto a ruin guard plush. Kaeya assumed that he must be Tuecer so that leaves the other boy which must be Anton.

“Well well look who it is!” Ajax got up from the table and Tuecer ran straight into his arms, he picked him up with ease, spinning him around as his younger brother giggled.

“I missed you so much!” Tuecer cried, as his older brother put him down “Are you going to stay for the night”

“I most certainly am” Ajax nodded, “couldn't miss the opportunity to stay the night with my family”

“You will be leaving in the morning after breakfast, right Ajax?” his father finally spoke from the kitchen, his tone cold and firm.

Ajax sighed, “it is good to see you too, father”

Kira pulled out a hand towel and slapped her husband on the head, “Have some manners, Andrei! We have a guess!” she indicated towards Kaeya, her husband just huffed in response.

Kaeya decided to ignore him, he didn’t seem like the friendly type and clearly had some unsolved conflict with his son, he might talk to Ajax about that later.

He quietly observed his friend greeting his siblings, hugging both his sister and his other brother. 

“Who is that?” Tuecer’s looked over to where Kaeya is sitting, he smiled politely in response.

“Tuecer, Tonia, Anton, this is Kaeya, he and I are co-workers and travel together. I thought I could bring him over since he is a close friend of mine”

“Hello, Kaeya!” Teucer waved, “I like your eye it is very pretty!”

Kaeya chuckled, “why to thank you”

“You and Ajax are “close friends” huh?” Tonia smirked, raising an eyebrow, “he has told me a lot a bot you, you sure to work together a lot"

A light shade of pink dusted Kaeya’s cheeks, “Umm yeah… we’ve been friends for the past four years. Your brother has been very helpful when I first arrive in Snezhnaya”

“Where about’s are you from Kaeya?” Anton asked.

“Well, my parents are from Sumeru” Kaeya half lied. His mother was from Sumeru but his father was Khaenrian, “but they died when I was very young so a man from Mondstadt was kind enough to adopt me and raise me there”

“Monstadt! That's so cool, I always wanted to go there!” Tuecer turned to his brother with pleading eyes “You have to take me there sometime Brother and try their deserts!”

Ajax smiled, “I certainly will one day, the city of freedom has a lot of friendly people and some lovely views from the cliffs”

The four siblings continued to chat amongst themselves until Kira called out reminding them that dinner is being served. Ajax sat back down next to Kaeya while his three siblings sat T the opposite side. His mother and father sat down at opposite ends of the table once dinner was served.

Kaeya sat quietly as the family chatted amongst themselves, he preferred to listen to what Ajax’s siblings had to say rather than talk about himself. It is easier to keep secrets when you listen rather than speak.

Occasionally, Kira would ask Kaeya some questions about his job as a “toy seller” but he kept his answers brief and simple but not completely dismissive since he doesn’t want to come across as rude. Eventually the conversation would turn back to Ajax and his siblings who thankfully did most of the talking on Kaeya’s behalf. 

Kaeya can also safely say that he really enjoyed the meal. Ajax’s parents were incredible cooks and he hadn’t eaten a meal this quickly since his last dinner at the winery. In a way, it made him miss Adelinde’s cooking but it did bring him some comfort he was able to enjoy home-cooked meals again.

Kaeya, Ajax, and the three siblings helped clean up together. Kaeya washed the dishes while the others put stuff away since he doesn’t know where they go. The sound of the cold running water left him completely unaware of the conversation between Tonia and Ajax.

“He seems to like you,” Tonia whispered in Ajax’s ear after dinner, “maybe you should ask him out”

Ajax sputtered, “That is outrageous! He and I are just close friends”

“Really? Because Tuecer told me he thinks you should marry him because, and I quote 'you like pretty things'” she teased.

His cheeks heated up, “keep your voice down, Tonia! Or there will be no more souvenir gifts after my next trip!”

Tonia just giggled in reply, “Keep denying it brother and you are only going to make it worse~”

After cleaning up Ajax and Kaeya went to settle in Ajax’s old room which is now used as the guest bedroom. However, upon entering, there was only one queen size bed.

“I can go sleep on the couch in the living area” Kaeya spoke up immediately.

Ajax turned, looking offended, “Absolutely not! You’re a guest Kaeya, I cannot let you sleep on a couch of all things, besides the house downstairs gets incredibly cold in the morning. If anything I should sleep down there!”

Kaeya sighed, placing an arm in front of Ajax to stop him from heading downstairs. He is not going to bother arguing with him, “Well I guess we are going to have to share then if that is okay with you?”

Ajax looked to the ground in an attempt to hide the red on his cheeks, “of course! I’m perfectly okay with that!”

The two got themselves ready and settled into bed, the two men were quite tall so their bodies took up the entire bed so there was not much room to move around. Kaeya lay on his side, facing the wall, trying to avoid any eye contact with Ajax. He couldn’t quite pinpoint it but lately, he has been finding himself feeling more, nervous but also excited whenever he is around him. This feeling has only been there for the past couple of weeks and he has never experienced anything like it before.

“Hey Kaeya” his mind was shut off from his thoughts, listening intently to Ajax’s soft voice, “I wanted to say thank you, for coming to meet my family tonight. It really means a lot”

Kaeya felt a smile tug at his lips, “your welcome, thanks for inviting me, your siblings are quite adorable”

Ajax chuckled fondly, “Yeah, they are quite cute, especially Tuecer”

He then felt himself remember what he wanted to ask Ajax at dinner, “Hey is it okay if I ask what is going on with your dad? I don’t want to intrude on family affairs but he seemed quite distant…”

The other sighed, “Yeah, I had a small feeling you would want to know what is going on with him. He was the one who sent me to the Fatui after I came out of the abyss. Thought I was too dangerous to be around his other children. My mother, however, didn’t agree with him and still saw me as her child and wanted me to stay. So eventually they both agreed to allow me to visit home once a week. Mum still wasn’t happy with the result though, I could tell she didn’t want me to leave, but I figured it is for the best…”

Kaeya felt heartbroken at hearing the story. He couldn’t believe one of his worst fears -being abandoned by your own family- has happened to one of his own friends.

“Oh, Ajax… I am so sorry that happened to you.” His voice was filled with sympathy.

The eleventh sniffled, Kaeya couldn’t see him in the dark but he can picture him trying to hold back a sob, “It is okay, it's not all that bad. I can still see them weekly, and my mother is still happy to have me around.”

“Still, no one should kick a child out of their home.”

“Maybe not” Ajax replied sadly, “but it is not every day your own child falls into the abyss and turns into a monster.”

Kaeya flipped over, now facing him, his hands gripped onto Ajax’s hands, “you are not a monster, Ajax. I have seen how you behave around these children, I honestly do not believe the other Harbingers and abyssal creatures are capable of being this caring. Sure, you are a little bloodthirsty but that doesn’t make you a monster. You are a good brother, son, and friend. If your dad can’t see that, then that is on him.”

Ajax’s eyes widened in response, the tears in his eyes were glistening in the moonlight that shone through the window, he sniffled and pulled a hand away to whip his tears, “Thanks Kaeya.”

Kaeya smiled softly and pulled Ajax into a comforting hug, his chin rested on top of his head while Ajax curled up and snuggled into his chest. Normally the two words be quite embarrassed and shy being this affectionate but they were too emotional to care. They both gave each other gentle reminders that their past does not define them and they feel less judged whenever they spend time with each other, allowing them to be more open and vulnerable.

Ajax eventually fell asleep in Kaeya’s arms, who is too tired to pull away. Kaeya then fell asleep quickly to the sound of Ajax’s breathing lulling him to sleep.

Chapter Text

Diluc and Crepus stared at the young bard in front of them completely dumbfounded by what he just told them.

“I am sorry but I must’ve heard you wrong” Diluc frowned in confusion, “You call yourself Barbatos, you have met Kaeya and gave him the chess piece which is actually Gnosis in disguise… How exactly are we supposed to believe you?”

Venti sighed, expecting this sort of reaction to come from the young Ragnivindr. He is going to have to be a bit more convincing than that.

“May you show me the chess piece, Master Ragnivindr” he addressed Crepus, gesturing to his person.

Crepus hesitated, skeptical of the bard, and took the chess piece out of his pocket and placed it on his desk.

Venti gently waved his hand and the white on the chess piece faded revealing a gold and turquoise piece. The anemo energy radiating from it was incredibly intense compared to when it was disguised.

They didn’t have to say it out loud but from their stunned expressions, Venti could tell that they were convinced.

“Huh” Crepus simply responded, not being able to form the words to describe how surprised he was, “You certainly were not joking”

“You're really Barbatos?” Diluc asked.

Venti nodded, “that I am, but that is not important right now. Master Crepus, your son could be in danger. If he does not give this Gnosis to the Tsaritsa within the next week he could lose his life. We need to give this to him”

“Well then if he needs it how do we find him? What if he returns to Mondstadt looking for it while we are on a wild goose chase in Snezhnaya, we could miss him.” Diluc interjected.

“I do know of his whereabouts” the archon replied, “ As an archon, I have the ability to sense where my people are but the further they are from Mondstadt, the harder it is. I cannot give you his exact location but he is in the same area as Zapolyarny palace and he does not plan on returning until after the Harbinger’s Banquet, which is in two days time”

“Two days…” Diliuc groaned in frustration, “how are we supposed to get Snezhnaya in two days? Carriage or Horseback isn’t even fast enough for such a trip.”

“Do you have any ideas?” Crepus asked the Archon hopefully.

“Yes, I can assist you in getting to Senzhnaya. But, I won't be able to travel with you. I must remain here and watch over my people. The wind shall guide you along the shortest path, making your journey much easier. I do also recommend a horse”

“Well that settles it, I will take Artemis and find him myself” Diluc responded immediately, standing up to leave the office.

“Diluc wait a moment” Crepus stood up, “I know I cannot stop you but at least bring something with you before you go. Even with the god's guidance, it will not be easy once you arrive”

“Your father is right, my child,” said Venti, “once you are close enough to the palace I can no longer help you, the Tsaritsa will immediately sense my presence the closer you are to her palace. You need to be on your guard”

Diliuc nodded solemnly. He wanted nothing more but to run off right away to bring Kaeya home but the god was right. He cannot save his brother if he is unprepared.

“Barbatos, before I get ready I just wanted to ask, why do you want to save Kaeya all of a sudden?” 

The god smiled sadly, his eyes glowing a faint teal “I do not normally meddle with the lives of my children, and I most certainly don't go out of my way to save them if they find themselves in danger. Freedom requires me to let my people learn from their mistakes. But if an archon of another nation threatens their safety then I must do what is in my power to prevent them from harming my children”

Diluc nodded slowly, “I understand, thank you for helping us”

The light from the archon's eyes dimmed, his smile is now cheeky and lively, “Just make sure you bring some of that Firewater stuff when you come back” he winked.

Kaeya and Ajax made sure to get up early and exist the house. While they did wake up to find themselves cuddling each other, they didn’t question it or the events of the previous night. Both of them seem to struggle addressing such topics. 

Ajax quickly gave his siblings all a hug and a kiss goodbye, he gave his mother a hug and said goodbye to his father who just grunted in response.

”Be sure to come again soon brother!” Tuecer cried, “and bring Kaeya he is really nice!”

Ajax laughed, “of course, I will be sure to keep sending you those letters!”

When Ajax and Kaeya arrived back at the palace they spent the rest of their day relaxing as well as discussing their plans for their return to Mondstadt and be in and out as soon as possible.

Once the clock hit 5:30 the pair started to get ready in their formal outfits for the Harbinger’s Banquet. Kaeya had a mask for more formal occasions which is more elegant then the one he usually wears for his mission. He also wore his large white Harbinger coat to signify his rank. 

The Harbinger’s Banquet is usually held to celebrate Harbingers who have successfully completed missions given to them via the Tsaritsa.

The Banquet was held in one of the many large halls in the palace. The Hall had a large table running down the centre with masses of amounts of food which could feed an entire village. Kaeya almost felt guilty knowing that most of this food will go to waste instead of being donated to the starving and cold citizens of Snezhnaya.

There were people scattered all around the hall chatting with many of the other Harbingers. Signora, Pulcinella, Pantalone and Dottore were on the more social side, chatting away with many of the other diplomats and officials. Colombina and Arlecchino were standing off in the corner, distancing themselves from the crowed trying to keep their convocation private. Capitino and Sandrone kept to themselves and quietly sipped at their drinks while the Balladeer just scoffed at anyone who bothered him. 

Kaeya spotted Ajax on his own in the crowed, clearly waiting for him to show up. He went up to Ajax and stood beside him. He was grateful to have friend to chat too since Kaeya wasn’t comfortable with talking to people he barely knew. Despite his time with the Fatui he wasn’t the type to socialise with his coworkers. Aside from the Harbingers, he had no idea who half of these people were.

Ajax explained to him that they are a couple of other high-ranking Fatui officers and diplomats are also invited since they are highly valued assets for the Harbingers. Kaeya is technically the boss of some of these people, he just never really utilised his authority over them since he prefer to just do things alone.

The loud chatter in the hall eventually died down when someone started to tap their glass with some cutlery. 

“Thank you all for gathering here this evening,” Pierro spoke loud and clear, gaining everyone’s attention, “I invite you all here tonight to announce the success of two of our fellow Harbingers in retrieving Gnosis off two different Archons”

There was a quick round of applause; Ajax took a quick glance at Kaeya and mouthed who else? Kaeya just shook his head, unsure.

“I would like to congratulate La Signora in retrieving the Gnosis of the Geo Archon, Rex Lapis in Liyue, and to our newest Harbiner Brighella, who successfully retrieved the Anemo Archons Gnosis in Mondstadt.”

“Ugh, of course, it was her”, Ajax scoffed, fake clapping. “She has always been stealing my thunder. Sometimes Pierro would send both her and me on a mission. I would do all the hard work, and then she would drop in at the last minute and take all the credit, even though I did basically everything!”

Kaeya giggled; he often enjoys hearing Ajax gossip about other Harbingers. The man either has beef with another Harbinger or wants to fight them, sometimes both

“I would also like to announce that the Fatui has had some recent success in negotiating with the Knights of Favonious. I received a letter from the Acting Grand Master saying that the Fatui are allowed to reside within the city walls if they help supply the Knights of Favonious with soldiers and weapons.”

Oh no… Kaeya felt his heart sink, his mind draining out the loud cheering and applause of the high-ranking officials. He was hoping Jean would turn down his offer but the poor woman has been so overworked lately with the lack of staff at the knights she had no choice but to negotiate with the Fatui. He doesn’t want to admit it out loud but deep down he feels that a part of the blame falls onto Varka for taking more than half of the Ordo with him and making the city of Mondstadt weaker, allowing the Fatui to take advantage of them.

I hope you know what you are doing, Jean…

“Hey, you good there?” Ajax’s voice brought him back to the present moment, “You look a bit pale”

Kaeya took a deep breath, “I’m fine, I will be just outside on the balcony”

He quickly turned away before Ajax could say anything else.

The bitter cold air hit his cheeks when he stepped outside, but Kaeya didn’t really care. He just wanted some time to himself; being in a room full of Fatui, who were most likely cheering about having more control over his old home, makes Kaeya feel sick. He hopes that Crepus and Diluc are okay and not affected by this decision.

He looked over at the view of the city in front of him. Kaeya never really spent time going out with the Snezhnayan locals; one time, he went out of curiosity and found that the people of Snezhnaya were so incredibly different from the people of Mondstadt. When he was a knight, the people of Mondstadt would smile, look up to him, and show him much respect. However, here in Shezhnaya, the locals avoid any Fatui like the plague. Each time Kaeya would walk past a group of people, he could see fear flash across their faces before they turn in the opposite direction.

Kaeya couldn’t blame them. He was also terrified of what the Fatui are capable of.

“Congratulations on your successful mission, Brighella” Kaeya felt his heart leap to his chest when the sinister voice interrupted his thoughts. He turned to see Dottore standing behind him, “for a young Harbinger like yourself being able to steal a Gnosis is quite impressive.”

Kaeya bowed his head awkwardly, “Uhh- thanks” he turned away in an attempt to avoid conversation.

“You know we never really had the chance to talk”, Dottore continued to Kaeya’s disappointment, “the only other person I see you talk to is that annoying friend of yours, Tartaglia.” 

“Well, he actually cares about me, unlike the other assholes here tonight.”, Kaeya spat, feeling a swell of anger grow inside him hearing the doctor insult his friend.

“Oh my dear, Brighella, of course, we care about you”, Dottore crept closer, sending a cold shiver down his spine, “the other Harbingers just have a hard time trusting someone who chooses to hide his identity and not to mention, a child of the abyss just like his uncle.”

Kaeya looked towards the ground, hoping that the Doctor could take a hint a bother someone else. He could feel his breathing quicken and his heartrate thud in his chest as the doctor placed a frighteningly gentle hand on his shoulder”

“It is very rare I meet a young Kheanrain specimen like you. I never got the chance to talk to the Jester about his heritage; perhaps you could-”

The doctor’s voice was cut off as a sharp hydro blade suddenly flashed in front of his throat, barely grazing his skin.

“Step aside, Doctor”

Kaeya whipped his head around to see Ajax, griping a short hydro blade, barely grazing the doctor’s throat. To say he looked furious would be an understatement; Kaeya could almost hear the anger radiating off the eleventh.

The Doctor laughed, slowly raising his hands in surrender, “Oh my dear Eleventh, I was only asking for a chat with our young comrade here. It is not often I get to talk to him.”

“And for a good reason; now go bother someone else before I cut off your head” Kaeya has never seen Ajax this angry.

“Tsk, you certainly have no manners, young Tartaglia. I will be off then.”

Kaeya felt startled when Ajax gripped his arm and guided him to the balcony outside, away from the party.

“You okay? Did he hurt you?” Ajax’s expression was washed with worry.

“No, it’s okay.” Kaeya assured him, “he was just being weird as usual.”

Ajax scoffed, “Too bad it's not one of his variants. I wouldn’t hesitate to slice his head off”

“Really? Aren’t you worried he will be mad at that?” Kaeya has met a few of Dottore’s variants but prefers not to mess with them for fear of how the Doctor may react. The different personalities of each variant has, made him the most unpredictable Harbinger, and that makes Kaeya a bit warier of him. 

“Eh, I always do it when he is pissing me off,” the eleventh shrugged. “He has many spares anyway. Scaramouche and Arlecchino do it for fun.”

Kaeya raised an eyebrow in surprise and then chuckled, “Honestly, that sounds like something they would do.”

Ajax leaned on the rail of the balcony with Kaeya, gazing into the city with him, “the view here is pretty neat huh”

“Yeah. We don’t have that many tall buildings in Monstadt aside from the bell tower at the church cause of legal height limits and stuff. It is quite difficult to get a nice view of the city unless you are on the top of Dragonspine”

“I would love to see that,” said Ajax gazing into the distance “I heard that mountain gets colder than Snezhnaya cause the leylines were destroyed; not gonna stop me, though! One day I will climb that mountain and enjoy the view of my best friend’s home!”

Kaeya laughed, “I would give you my next paycheck if you manage to do that”

Ajax and Kaeya continued to chat away, the rest of the Harbingers and High Ranking officials have most likely started eating dinner, but the two didn’t care. They were happy to be in each other’s company, even if it was out in the cold and they could be missing out on a nice meal. Kaeya talked about some of the best places to visit in Mondstadt since Ajax is willing to take his siblings there one day. He mentions fishing in the moat, which excites Ajax since he loves fishing with his siblings.

Their pleasant conversation was unfortunately cut short by someone clearing their throat behind them. One of Kaeya’s subordinates stood in attention, saluting his superiors.

“Lord Brighella, Lord Tartaglia, sorry to interrupt, but I am afraid there is an urgent matter; someone has trespassed into the palace grounds; we arrested him, but he demands an audience with you, Lord Brighella.”

Kaeya sighed, not in the mood to deal with possible stalkers or assassins, “where is the intruder being held.”

“He is currently being held outside the Barracks, my Lord; we have a training camp set up there; allow me to escort you there.”

Ajax gently grasped Kaeya’s arms before he left, “want me to come with you?”

Kaeya shook his head, “No, it should be fine; I will be back soon.”

He didn't want his time with Ajax to end so abruptly, the man's company is the only thing that keeps him grounded and makes him feel like not everything about the Fatui sucks. But he is still a Harbinger and must attend to his duties when ordered to do so.

The Fatui escorted him out of the palace in the courtyard where the barracks are. There was a  guarded tent set up, where the prisoner was temporarily being held. Kaeya looked at his agent, silently questioning him as to why the trespasser was in a poorly secured location.

“We currently have guards in there watching him” the agent informed him.

The flap of the tent was opened by the agent and what Kaeya saw was the last thing he expected to see after all this time.

Kneeling in the dirt before him between two guards, was non other than Diluc Ragnivindr.

Chapter Text

Kaeya found himself frozen in shock, staring at his brother kneeling before him. Never would he thought Diluc of all people would show up in Snezhnaya, what could he possibly want from here? He finds himself grateful for the mask that conceals his expression, preventing his subordinates from picking up anything suspicious.

His brother was bound and kneeling on the floor, with a cloth tied around his head as a gag. He had scratches and dirt scattered along his face, including a black eye, indicating that he likely got himself into a fight before getting arrested; luckily, he had no fatal injuries that concerned Kaeya.

Diluc’s eyes widened in recognition when he noticed him staring. Frantically looking around the tent, he let out a loud grunt, clearly trying to get the Harbinger’s attention.

“Quite you!” the agent slapped Diluc across the face, which made Kaeya flinch. He had forced himself not to beat the crap out of the Agent.

The agent then approached Kaeya, pulling out a white chess piece from his top pocket. Kaeya immediately recognised that exact queen piece.

The Gnosis.

“We also found this chess piece with him, Lord Harbinger. We do not know of its significance. However,  we declared the item suspicious since it has an intense amount of anemo energy radiating from it.” 

The agent placed the chess piece in Kaeya’s hand.

Kaeya felt himself continue to stare at Diluc in disbelief. Why would he bring the Gnosis to Sheznaya? Did he even know what it was? Was Barbatos somehow involved?

At least it saved him the trip all the way back to Mondstadt. However, Kaeya still needs to get to the bottom of this, but he could not do it with the agent and the guards in the room. After a short moment of silence, he finally addressed his subordinates.

“Leave us”, he ordered.

“But sir, he could be danger-”

“I said leave” Kaeya’s voice was filled with venom. They flinched in surprise at their Harbinger speaking so harshly to them since Kaeya is normally quite calm with his subordinates and often friendly with them. It is rare for them to see him this emotional. The agent gulped and signaled the guards to follow him. Quietly, they exited the tent, leaving Kaeya alone with his former brother.

Once they were out of his sight, Kaeya took his mask off, watching his brother’s expression with sad eyes. He went to untie the binds on his wrist first, he didn't care if Diluc wishes to kill him the second he is set free, he will let him do it. The second the ropes came off he was relieved to see that Diluc just simply shook out his wrist and continued to sit still when Kaeya knelt down in front of him and gently untied the gag around his mouth.

Before Diluc could speak, Kaeya instantly interrupted him, “I have a lot to explain to you, especially about the past four years and our encounter in Mondstadt, but I think I should start with an apology.”

He sighed and crossed his legs, eyes now looking at the ground instead of at his brother.

You have every right to be angry and upset with me after what I did. After I was captured and joined the Fatui, I wasn’t sure if I could come home since I gave away my abilities right in front of you. So I made a selfish choice and remained here. I am sorry for everything, Diluc. I will do anything to help repay-”

His words were cut off when Diluc leaned forward and hugged Kaeya tightly—hands gripping the back of his coat, preventing him from pulling away. Kaeya found himself relaxed in his brother’s grip and returned the hug gratefully. It almost felt the same as the reunion a couple of days back.

Diluc pulled away, his now cold hands gently cupping Kaeya’s face.

“I missed you so much…” Diluc’s eyes were watery, “and you have nothing to apologise for, Kaeya.”

“But- how could you forgive me?” Kaeya choked on his words, his face filled with tears, “I am a Harbinger now- and before that, I was a spy from the abyss!”

“Dad told me everything, " Diluc spoke softly and familiarly, like when he would comfort Kaeya whenever he got upset as a kid, “about K’heanriah and the fact that you were left at the winery to spy on us.”

Kaeya froze; Crepus knew? But how, he made sure for most of his childhood to hide his past, create a mask for himself so no one would know.

“If you are wondering how he knew”, Diluc interrupted his thoughts, “apparently, you’re eye was a dead giveaway. All it took was a bit of research to confirm his hypothesis. Even then, he was against turning you in and wanted to give you a better life and raise you as his own.”

Kaeya felt his eyes sting with tears, “Master Cr- I mean. Dad wanted me?”

“Of course he did”, Diluc responded, “you were just a child, Kaeya, and our family . His son and my brother. Nothing will ever change that.”

The damn broke. Kaeya burst into tears burying his face in his brother’s shoulder, and he couldn’t believe it. This whole time, his family wanted him home. And he wanted to stay.

As a child, Kaeya always wanted a warm and loving family, but his biological father wasn’t able to give him that, so he left his son behind. Diluc and Crepus did provide him with anything he wished for, but he struggled to accept it and was worried that by lying to them, Crepus and Diluc would soon abandon him. 

But even after joining the Fatui and becoming a Harbinger, his father and his brother- his family- always wanted him. And now, it is his ambition to protect the things he always dreamt of as a child. 

The air around the two young men started to grow cold, sniffling Kaeya pulled away from his brother to check if the flap of the tent was opening, but it was still closed. Looking around, he notices swirls of cryo spiraling around him and Diluc. The cold felt strangely comforting like rather than trying to hurt the two, it was protecting them.

A small bright blue light then descended from above them. Kaeya was transfixed by the light, not noticing his brother squinting and turning his face away from its glow. The cryo swirling around them slowly stopped, leaving remnants of frost on the ground as the glowing object dimmed and fell into Kaeya’s cold palms.

Kaeya held up the light blue orb to observe it and felt his breath stop. It was a Cryo Vision.

“Oh, my archons…” Diluc whispered.

“This isn’t possible” Kaeya felt himself questioning so many things, “I’m Khaenriahn! Khaenraihns do not receive blessings from the gods, only curses.”

“Perhaps…” Diluc replied softly, “But maybe the gods don’t recognise you as such.”

No matter the circumstances, I shall not bring harm to a child of Mondstadt, the archon’s words echoed in his head.

Kaeya smiled, squeezing the vision tightly. He then put his hand in one of the pockets of his uniform and pulled out his delusion, “Guess I won’t be needing this anymore…”

He tossed it aside, knowing that one of the other agents would find it and return it to Pierro.

“What was that?” Diluc asked, eyeing the object that Kaeya had just tossed. 

“A delusion,” Kaeya answered simply, “A false vision in a way, a pyro one. Thought I could use something that reminded me of you.”

He made sure to leave out the part where it drains a person’s life force. He didn’t want to stress his brother any further.

Diluc grinned and gently elbowed Kaeya, “Aww miss your big bro that much?”

The other rolled his eyes, but his smile was still there “Yeah, I sure did.”

The two sat in a comfortable silence, admiring the new vision Kaeya just received. The vision’s shell was a Snezhnayan one, indicating where it was received. Kaeya was hoping for Mondstadt one, but some of him also didn’t mind. Shenznaya has been a big part of his life. Even if it wasn’t what he wanted, it made him who he was at this very moment.

Diluc silently offers Kaeya one of the spare clips that he carries on him in case his current one breaks.

“How did you know where to find me,” Kaeya said, gratefully taking the clip, “and why did you bring the Gnosis with you?”

“I found it after you left. I picked it up thinking it was important, and as it turns out, it is. Barbatos then came into the winery and told me that it was his Gnosis. He said that it needs to give to you so the Tsaritsa doesn’t hurt you for failing your mission. And I assume it would save you the stress of coming back?”

Kaeya chuckled, “Yeah, it most certainly does, but now that you are here, I am not sure if I can stay in Snezhnaya anymore…”

Kaeya felt torn. He wanted to go home desperately, maybe start over with his family and hopefully get a job in the knights since Diluc and Crepus forgave him.

But then there was Ajax, stupid adorable Ajax, with his goofy smile, cute laugh, and adorable family. Ajax got Kaeya through some of the toughest years of his life. He couldn’t just leave without saying anything to him.

Maybe, if Kaeya can convince him to come with him…

“I can use my powers to get us back to instantly get us back to Mondstadt. Save us from crossing the border.” Kaeya spoke with determination.

Dilucs face lit up, “You’re coming home? That's great! You’re sure everything is going to be alright?”

“Pierro plans on establishing a stronger presence there. I am worried about our home Diluc, and I do not want to side with the Fatui while they slowly gain control over the city.”

“What about the Gnosis?” Asked Diluc, “You said you gave Pierro the fake, right? Which means he thinks he has it. Why don’t we use this opportunity to give it back to Barbatos?”

“I think it is best we leave it behind. The last thing we need is more Harbingers coming to Mondstadt to retrieve it. Besides, Barbatos didn’t really seem to mind giving it up, he should understand our reasons for leaving it here.”

Diluc nodded, “you make a good point. The Fatui will already be angry enough with you leaving.”

Kaeya hummed, facing the floor. He was worried about the Fatui coming after him and his family because he betrayed them. Pierro hasn’t yet threatened the safety of his home, but after some training with him, Kaeya was able to witness his abilities firsthand, Pierro owns an electro delusion along with abyssal powers like Kaeya. However, he has much more training and experience with his abilities than him, not to mention he is a pure-blood Kheanriahn which means he is also cursed with immortality and makes him impossible to kill.

“We are going to have to warn the city what they are up against,” Kaeya sighed, “You ready to go home?”

Diluc smiled, “Whenever you are.”

Kaeya focused on the darkness that swelled within him, preparing to summon a portal to Mondstadt. However, right before he could open the gate, he heard the flaps of the tent open and a familiar soft voice.

“Hey Kaeya, you have been gone for a while- wait- where are you going?”

Kaeya flipped around, familiar dull blue eyes met his. The realisation was swept across Ajax’s expression when he noticed Diluc standing beside him.

“Are you… leaving?” his voice sounded hurt as he took a step forward.

“You can come with me, Ajax. We can leave the Fatui together-”

“You know, doing such a thing could get you executed for treason…”

Diluc put his arm in front of his brother “Stay away from my brother, Fatui scum.”

“Diluc, don’t”, Kaeya shoved his arm out of the way, “he’s my friend.”

“Friend?” Ajax scoffed, “You are about to run back home with your brother after all this time, and yet you still call me your friend?”

“I don’t have a choice, Ajax-“

“Don’t call me that! You always had a choice!” the Harbinger yelled, tears falling down his face, Kaeya could feel his heart slowly break hearing his best friend yell at him, “But you were too much of a coward to face your own family! I thought that you staying meant that you were never going to go back to them, even if you miss them…”

“I’m sorry-”

“I thought you were loyal to us” his voice was much softer now, but heartbroken, “I thought… you were loyal to me. Who exactly are you supposed to be loyal to, Brighella?”

Before Kaeya could give him an answer, the tent opened to the Jester marching in with several guards, looking incredibly furious. 

“Well, we’ll… if it isn’t the traitor”

The guards immediately went for Kaeya and Diluc, attacking the two men, and pinning them to the ground. Kaeya noticed his brother about to shout in protest but glared at him and shook his head, signaling for him to keep his mouth shut. 

Their hands were tied behind them, preventing them from fighting back, Kaeya tried to commune with his abyssal energy but felt a small metal band click on his wrist. The feeling of the cold metal felt familiar, it was the armband that Pierro would give him during his early training to help control his abyssal powers. The band was created by the doctor as a way to nullify abyssal energy and prevent Kaeya from losing control of his powers. Now it is being used to stop him from escaping.

“I knew you never truly cared for your mission, Alberich,” Pierro spat “You, just like everyone else in this archon-tainted land, chose to continue to live in peace away from all the conflict because you are selfish and care too much for that blasted city of freedom despite their archon being nothing but a useless drunk bard. As much as I am disappointed in you, Kaeya, I am not surprised.”

Kaeya didn’t bother to make a response and quickly glanced at Ajax. His expression also showed disappointment but in a much more heartbroken way in comparison to Pierro, who was more angry.

Pierro picks up the Gnosis discarded on the ground, “Ah, I had a feeling something was off with the other “Gnosis” you gave me. The Tsaritsa will be quite pleased with me once I give this to her. You will face punishment by the Tsaritsa herself for trying to fool and betray the Fatui”

“Arrest them,” Pierro ordered his agents, “the Mondstadian for illegally crossing our border and terrorizing our nation and our former comrade for treason.”

Chapter Text

Ajax immediately marched out of the tent, making a beeline for his quarters. He needed some space and time to himself after the events of this evening. Agents and soldiers would rush to step aside and salute him as he marched past them down the palace halls. They cower in fear of their boss, that looks like he is about to murder someone.

He chose to ignore them. His mind was too conflicted about what had happened with Kaeya to worry about his subordinates. He has chosen to be loyal to the Tsaritsa for his entire life. He just struggles to accept that not everyone wants to be devoted to a god without love for her people.

Ajax also wants to remain loyal to the people he cares about. His family are like his lifeline, the only reason he keeps fighting. He would do anything to keep them and their dreams safe. 

Kaeya has been the first to see him so vulnerable and open up about his struggles with his father and why he no longer lives with them. Ajax felt he could rely on him to watch his back and keep each other’s secret. But now, Kaeya can no longer be with him. Traitors to the Fatui face public execution, he isn’t exactly sure what will happen to the other guy, Diluc, but his fate isn’t looking any better. 

Truth be told, Ajax wasn’t mad at Kaeya for betraying the Fatui, he couldn’t even care less about the Fatui himself. Ajax was just mad how Kaeya’s betrayal meant that things are going to be much more difficult for him. 

Because of his growing affections towards the man, he has felt less lonely in the Fatui and thought that he had someone he could rely on and trust. However, he knows that in time Kaeya and his brother, Diluc, are going to be executed, and if he chooses to save them, his family could be in danger.

Ajax was about to open the door to his quarters, dive into his bed, and sob into the mattress, only to be interrupted by someone clearing their throat.

“Is everything alright young Tartaglia?” a familiar voice called from the end of the hall. A short man with a white moustache and a pointy nose slowly walked towards him.

“Hey, Pulcinella,” Ajax said quietly, “I’m sorry, I don’t feel like talking right now.”

The short man walked up towards him, clearly not as intimidated as the other Fatui regarding Ajax’s temper. Pulcinella tends to have more patience than most Harbingers and shows no fear. Ajax isn’t sure whether he should be concerned about his courage or impressed. 

“Hmm, but something tells me that you need to, am I right?” The older man spoke gently, he didn’t want to push Ajax, but he could tell that if he continued bottling up his emotions, the young man would continue to act angrily towards his subordinates.

Apart from Kaeya, Pulcinella was the only other Harbinger Ajax was willing to get along with since he also understood what it is like to have a family. Pulcinella was there to accompany Ajax while he was a teenager who had just recently joined the Harbingers and would often tell stories of his family to keep the boy company. 

Nowadays, the two don’t spend much time together, but Ajax would confidently call him a friend since conversing with the man occasionally is nice. However, due to the Harbinger’s shady work and sneaky nature, he doesn’t trust him as much as he trusts Kaeya.

Ajax sighed in defeat, “your right; I have a lot on my mind at the moment. I don’t know if Pierro told you, but K-” he paused briefly, trying to calm down the boiling anger inside him, “Brighella, has been arrested for treason.”

“I know,” Pulcinella spoke solemnly, “I saw him rushing out of the banquet when an agent informed him of the Ragnivindr’s unexpected arrival. It must be hard for you.”

Ajax chuckled and rolled his eyes, “understatement of the century."

Making eye contact with Pulcinella, he could see that the man felt sympathy towards him, “You don’t always have to hide how you feel, Ajax. I can see that even though you appear sad, you are also angry.”

“I just don’t know what to do, Pulcinella,” he cried, “I mean- I still care for him, and I know he still cares for me considering he asked me to go with him, but I have been loyal to the Tsaritsa for so long I can’t just turn away as easily as him! I have a family here to care for, and if I turn my back to the Fatui they could be killed along with me!”

The older harbinger sighed, “Tartaglia, let me tell you a little about the Tsaritsa, we all know her heart is cold, and she has no love for her people or Teyvat. However, 500 years ago, she did love someone who died in the catacalysm. They were the previous Cryo Archon, who then handed their Gnosis to her when they died. Her love was so strong that she took on the role of Cryo Archon and used her abilities for revenge against the gods that took away what she loved.”

“Well, that certainly explains her attitude.”

 Pulcinella nodded solemnly, “Sure does. A broken heart can destroy any individual, even an archon.”

“Does this have something to do with the Gnosis?” Ajax asked.

“Yes, she wanted Celestia to pay for what they did. So she will collect all the Gnosis, breaking off all the other Archon’s contact with Celestia and use them as a way to destroy the gods.”

“How exactly do you know all of this? I get you are a high-ranking Harbinger, but the Tsaritsa is not the type of person to share something like this so openly.”

Pulcinella grinned, “Well, I do certainly enjoy the thrill of sneaking around the place and eavesdropping on conversations between her and Pierro. They sure do talk a lot, those two! And when she discovered a way that Archons can have their Gnosis taken from them, she and Pierro can now get revenge against a common enemy.”

“ Celestia,” Ajax breathed, “they both have grudges against Celestia.”  It made sense why Pierro, a Kheanri’ahn, would work with her. He wanted revenge against the gods for taking his nation. So for him to work with the Tsaritsa so closely in secrecy made sense since they both share the same goal.

“Why are you telling me this? What has this got to do with Kaeya?”

“You have been the most loyal to the Tsaritsa, Tartaglia, and I believe if you want to be on Kaeya’s side, then you should know the truth.”

“But I can’t just run away like he can,” said Ajax, “my family are still here and don’t have the protection of another god to stop the Tsaritsa from hurting them.”

“Don’t you worry about that,” the Harbinger winked, “I will have them escorted out into Mondstadt before she catches wind of this, pun not intended.”

“What about you? You chose to help me, which could also put you and your family in danger.”

“Oh, don’t you worry about me. In case things went south and I found myself getting into trouble, I escorted my family out of this cold nation a long time ago. I never trusted the Cryo Archon, and working for her isn’t what I wanted to do, but, thanks to my massive paycheck, I can have my family live comfortably in Mondstadt. You just worry about your friend.” 

He tossed a small pouch towards Ajax, “in here contains both the Ragnivindr children’s visions and the key to their cell. If you want to escape, be sure to unlock the cuff on Brighella’s wrist. That way, he can use his abyssal powers to get the three of you out of here.”

Ajax smiled, looking at the small bag in his hand and crouched down to pull the Harbinger into a quick hug, “You are the best Pulcinella. Thank you for everything.”

“You can thank me by getting your ass out of here without being noticed, but otherwise, you're welcome,” the Harbinger pulled away and walked swiftly down the hall.

Ajax held the bag to his chest, conscious of its presence, afraid of letting it go. He took a deep breath to calm himself down and headed towards the dungeons.

Hang on, Kaeya. I'm going to get you out of there.

Chapter Text

The two brothers sat curled up next to each other in the cold dark prison that they were tossed into not moments ago. Even with the flaming torches on the walls, it was not enough to prevent the ice from freezing the walls solid. Making it uncomfortable to rest or lean on any surface. Two guards stood outside their cell, both didn’t seem bothered by the cold since their uniform is designed to resist the harshest temperatures. They have also been trained to handle the cold weather, meaning their bodies are not likely to suffer from hypothermia.

While it has been some time, the space was quite familiar to Kaeya since he was thrown in here four years ago after he was kidnapped by the Fatui. He didn’t exactly miss being here, but luckily for him, the two shouldn't be staying too long since they are scheduled for an execution in the next week.

Without his vision, Diluc is unable to keep the place warm so the two resort to body heat and keeping each other warm so the cold wind coming from outside doesn’t freeze them to death. Kaeya was lucky enough to still have his Harbinger coat on him and wrapped it around both him and his brother like a large blanket. 

More ice cold air blew in from the tiny window above them. Causing them both to shiver. The prison was only half underground, allowing for the palace to build open windows with bars to let the cold air in. While many would call this poor design choice from the architects of  the palace, it was actually a clever way of slowly torturing the prisoners with the cold weather.

 “What is the p-point of a public execution when we are going to die here anyway? '' Diluc's voice shuddered, “your boss is kinda st-stupid, Kaeya”

Kaeya felt a small smile tug at his lips, but it faded quickly, while it sucks to suffer in the cold with his brother, his mind kept wandering back towards Ajax and his heartbroken expression when he discovered Kaeya planned on leaving.

He thought that the harbinger would understand his actions but it looks like he misjudged him. Kaeya wishes he could just talk to him and perhaps even help Ajax and his family escape this cold land.

He felt an elbow gently nudge at his side, he turned to see his brother's concerned expression, “sometimes on your mind isn’t it? And it ain’t just the c-cold dungeon we’re in”

Kaeya snuggled closer to his brother, “It’s Ajax, he has been my friend here for the past couple of years and I think he hates me now that I betrayed the Fatui. I miss him…”

“This the guy that caught us?” He didn’t miss the hint of annoyance in his brother’s voice when he spoke. He can’t exactly blame him though since Ajax was part of the organisation that kidnapped him.

“Yeah. I take it you don’t like him?”

His brother sighed, “look I ain’t the most fond of the guy right now with the way he talked to you but it is clear to me that you care deeply about him-“

Kaeya sat up, “More than anything.”

Diluc raised an eyebrow and then smirked, “you’re in love with him, aren’t you?”

Kaeya faced the floor, trying to conceal the blush on his cheeks.

“You’re not denying it!” Diluc exclaimed a little too loudly, earning a warning glare from the guards outside their cell. He then dropped his voice to whisper, “I will have you know, that I think your taste in men is terrible.”

Kaeya grinned, “Don’t worry he is not all that bad, he just likes punching people more than the average person.”

“And that doesn’t concern you?”

“I mean…” Kaeya paused, thinking deeply about his impressions of Ajax when he first met him, “I won’t deny it, he did worry me a little when I first met him. My first couple of months training here I was concerned as to why he wanted to spar with me so badly, and he didn’t just do this to me he did it with every other Harbinger, who all ranked higher than him and could easily defeat him. His bloodlust was concerning at first but after learning about him and training with him it wasn’t all his entire personality. Ajax believed in family, love and protecting those he cared for. When he took me to see his family I got to witness how gentle and caring he was with his siblings which confirmed that despite his constant need to fight something he is actually really gentle to those he loves.”

“I’ll take your word for it, but say we get out of here and you two do reconcile and he does something awful to you; I will not hesitate to burn him alive.” Diluc said with a serious expression.

Kaeya chuckled, “Yeah I know”

“But for what it is worth, Kaeya,” bis brother’s voice was more gentle, “I am glad you found someone to keep you company while you were here.”

The two sat in silence for a brief moment before their attention was then brought to the two guards outside their cell suddenly standing in attention.

“Lord Harbinger!” The guards saluted, “how may we serve you?”

“I wish to speak to the two prisoners, alone.”

The two guards looked at each other unsure, “but sir-”

“That’s an order” the Harbinger spoke firmly.

“As you wish, my Lord” and the two guards reluctantly opened the cell door allowing Ajax inside. They exited the room, closing the cell door behind them.

“Call us if you need to unlock the cell, my lord.”

He nodded at the guards, signalling for them to leave. Diluc and Kaeya were now alone with a Harbinger in their cell.

The two brothers stood up suddenly as he approached them, Diluc raised his arm up in front of Kaeya instinctively. An habit that he grew when they were kids, and still existed even after four years apart.

“I do not wish to harm you,” the Harbinger held his hands in surrender, showing a small bag in his hand, he tossed it on the ground in front of them, three objects spilled out, two of them were visions and one was the key to unlock the cuff on Kaeya’s wrist.

“Pulcinella was kind enough to give them to me. He is helping me get myself, you two and my family out of Snezhnaya.”

The two quickly went to pick up their visions and Kaeya used the key to uncuff his wrist. Using his elemental abilities, Diluc produced a small flame in the palm of his hands, keeping them both warm.

“Ajax, why are you helping us?“ Kaeya asked.

The Harbinger looked at the ground solemnly, “I decided that I can no longer be loyal to the Fatui, or the Tsaritsa. I have been blindly following her for too long and it is time for me to decide who I should fight for. You, my family, mean more to me than anything else. So I will do what it takes to get you both back safe”

Kaeya barely was able to form his words of gratitude, “Ajax you-“

“Yeah I’m sorry but I’m afraid you are not that convincing, Harbinger” Diluc spoke up suddenly, standing in front of his brother, “just hours ago, you were calling him a traitor and allowed your fellow comrades to drag us and throw us in here!”

“You have every right not to trust me” Ajax spoke gently, “and it is your decision on whether you want me to join you or not, but if you are going back to Mondstadt, please know that my family is there and I ask you to keep them safe”

“Of course we will,” Kaeya replied immediately before his brother could argue further, “but I don’t think your siblings would be happy if you were not there with them. You should come with us Ajax”

Diluc scoffed, “Kaeya, you can’t be serious, he is a bloodthirsty Harbinger, he could be messing with us right now!”

“I know, but trust me when I say he is not like the rest of them. He cares deeply for those who are close to him and will do anything to protect his family.”

Ajax nodded in agreement, “I only wish to get you and your brother to safety now that I know my family is in good hands”

“Yeah about that, how were you able to get them out of here?” Kaeya asked.

“Pulcinella offered to escort them to Mondstadt. He too has his family living there as well so that way if he were to get caught betraying the Fatui, his family wouldn’t have to suffer for it”

“Well, glad to know that another Harbinger is on our side” Kaeya then turned towards Diluc with a hopeful expression, “please Diluc, we should let him come with us.”

Diluc sighed and shook his head, “Okay” he slowly nodded, “I still don’t like you but I trusts Kaeya’s judgement.”

Ajax bowed his head gratefully, “thank you, Master Ragnivindr.”

“Please, you can call me Diluc.”

To prevent from dwelling on pleasantries, Ajax quickly used the key to undo the cuff on Kaeya’s wrist, allowing him to use his abyssal powers. Kaeya moved his wrist around and felt a surge of power flow through him. It felt as if he had woken up from a long nap, even though he hadn’t fallen asleep.

“What’s with the sudden change of heart? I thought you were loyal to the Tsaritsa” Kaeya asked him.

“I want to be,” Ajax sighed, “but I don’t know if I can, if she is the reason the people I care about have to suffer.”

“Hey” Kaeya gently placed his hand on his shoulder, getting his attention, “thank you, for doing this.”

“Of course.” 

Kaeya then closed his eyes and summoned his abyssal powers, his mind drifting back to the safety of the winery. He thought deeply about the winery’s exterior, and the cell he is currently in, connecting the two locations together.

He then opened his eyes and saw a starry blue portal appear in front of him.

Kaeya signalled Ajax and Diluc to jump through first, “Let’s go home.”

Chapter Text

Mondstadt’s nightly wind gently blew against his cheeks, releasing the tension in his body, the familiar air not only making him feel warmer, but also safer. The air was cold and harsh back in Snezhnaya and the wind and blizzards would most likely kill you if you stayed outside too long. However, the winds in Mondstadt are gentle and welcoming, as if the archon himself is welcoming his missing children home.

Kaeya took a deep breath, taking in the familiar aroma of the Windwheel Asters surrounding the statue of the seven they arrived at. When creating the portal, Kaeya wanted to create some distance between himself and the Winery, so that way he wouldn’t startle any of the staff with his abyssal powers.

Diluc let out a heavy sigh. “Archons, it feels so good to be home…”

Kaeya hummed in agreement, “Let’s head to the winery. Dad should still be awake at this hour”

The trio swiftly headed down to the winery; Diluc produced a small flame in his hand for light, walking at the front. Using the light he noticed some Hilichrul weapons scattered as if they were abandoned in a hurry.

“That is unusual,” Diluc observed, “Hilichruls don’t just leave their things behind like this.”

“Maybe one of your knights scared them off?” Ajax suggests.

The redhead huffed, “I doubt it. The knights are too inefficient to take matters into their own hands anyway”

Kaeya looked at him, confused, “Aren’t you a knight yourself, Diluc?”

Diluc shook his head sadly, “I apologise for not finding the opportunity to tell you this, but I resigned after Varka decided to close your case and declare you as deceased.”

“Oh…” he looked towards the ground, unsure of what to think. He was still accepting that his brother still cared for him, so it never crossed his mind that Diluc would so much as quit his job (which he worked so hard for) to find him. He wonders how much the knights have changed since he left.

“There doesn’t seem to be signs of any conflict here,” Ajax changed the topic, “just footprints leading into all sorts of directions. Clearly, they were afraid of something and went running without a plan.”

“We can investigate it later,” said Kaeya. “Right now, I need to see my father. I owe him an explanation for the last four years.”

The three young men have arrived at the Winery’s front lawn. Kaeya spotted three figures already standing outside as if they were expecting him. He was unprepared to see his father standing outside with Adelinde and… Barbatos? What reason does he have to be here?

Kaeya decided not to worry about them and turned his attention to the man in front of him.

 He is finally able to get a good look at his fathers face for the first time in four years. 

Not much yet also a lot has changed with Crepus. He still wore the same clothes and had his usual hairstyle yet he also seemed to have lost weight and his skin was paler than usual. 

His face was ever so slightly more wrinkly indicating his age and the stubble on his chin and hair had hints of discoloration rather than the usual vibrant red that Kaeya is used to seeing. 

His eyes told him more than enough however. They looked tired, sad and baggy as if the man cried himself to sleep every night he was away. 

Yet the second the eyes made contact with Kaeya’s he felt his heart stop, and a hint of light crept its way into them as if his world had shifted. 

A soft voice gasped, “My son…”

Crepus barrelled forward, tears streaming down his cheeks, crashing into his son and pulling him into a tight hug. Kaeya gripped onto the back of his fathers clothes like a lifeline, barely being able to hide the sobs as he hurried his face in his fathers shoulder.

“Oh, thank Archons… I thought I would never see either of you again…” Kaeya didn’t miss the sob coming from his father’s voice.

“I missed you too Dad,” Kaeya’s voice was muffled by the fabric of Crepus’ cloths “and I am so sorry… for everything”

Crepus pulled away examining his son, franticly wiping his tears “You have nothing to apologise for, I am just glad to have you home safe”

He have Kaeya a gentle squeeze on the shoulder before walking over to his other son, also bringing him into a hug, “thank you, for bringing him home, I’m so proud of you.”

Diluc couldn’t help the tears fall from his face, “Of course.”

“And…” Crepus pulled away from Diluc, raising an eyebrow at the ginger standing at a small distance from the group, not wanting to intrude on the emotional moment, “Who might you be?”

“You can call me Ajax, also known as Tartaglia, former eleventh Harbinger. It is a pleasure to meet the rest of Kaeya’s family,” he waved politely. 

Crepus’ eyes winded hearing the word “Harbinger” before his expression shifted back into a smile, “It is good to see that you have made a friend, Kaeya. As much as I wish to talk to you about the last four years, I am afraid there are more pressing matters to attend to.”

Barbatos and Adelinde's expressions fell at the statement.

“What's wrong?” Kaeya asked.

Barbatos sighed, “I think it is best we all head inside; the winds tell me it is unsafe to stand out in the open.”

Kaeya nodded, sceptical of why it would be unsafe to stand outside on the winery’s grounds; then again, the Hilichruls' disappearance made him suspect that something had happened while Diluc came to rescue him. He followed the group to the front door. Hiding his disappointment when he realised he didn’t get a chance to give Adelinde a proper greeting.

“I will warn you, “ Crepus stopped at the winery's front door. it is a bit crowded at the moment, so I am afraid you might not get that much privacy tonight.”

Ajax smirked, gently nudging Kaeya with his elbow, “Aw, your father has arranged a nice party for your return…”

Crepus, however, did not smile back; his expression remained grim, “I wish that were the case…”

When Crepus opened the door, hundreds of voices and hushed whispers bubbled from the inside. There were hundreds of people and knights scattered along in the winery, all lying down on stretcher beds and small mattresses on the ground. Some had bandages wrapped around their arms, legs and heads, indicating that they had been severely injured, their clothes dirty and smeared in blood. The occasional cry of a child could be heard amongst the crowd, followed by mothers trying to shush and comfort them.

Before Kaeya could question all the injured citizens in the winery, he spotted Jean amongst the crowd, who lit up and quickly made her way to the group.

“Kaeya!” She cried before bringing him into a tight hug, “I can’t believe it, you’re really here!”

“I miss you too, Jean…” he returned the hug.

Jean pulled away from him, examining the man in front of her, expression filled with disbelief, “Varka declared you as deceased after two years of searching. I nearly believed it myself, but your brother and father never gave up on you. I am so glad that you are here”

Kaeya smiled gratefully; his expression fell, looking at all the people in the winery, “Jean… what is going on here.”

Jean looked down in guilt, her eyes filled with tears, “It’s all my fault… I was the one that made the agreement, I should’ve seen it coming…”

Crepus sighed, before speaking up for her, “It’s the Fatui. They invaded the city”

Chapter Text

“Oh, archons…” Kaeya heard Diluc whisper behind him, he felt his stomach drop, realising it wasn't just Jean’s fault that the Fatui had taken over the city; it was his too. He made the offer back when he came to retrieve the Gnosis. And while she had refused at first, he still planted the thought into her head all that Pierro had to do was find a way to force her to accept.

Kaeya didn’t exactly do all good when he was a Harbinger, after all that is what happens when you work with the shady organisation. He always made sure to avoid causing harm to other individuals or societies. He only did what he had to do to get by, but of course, some of his past actions will have consequences.

“They-they have Barbara with them…” Jean fell onto her knees sobbing, Diluc knelt down, gently rubbing her back.

“Wait-” Ajax had a panicked expression on his face, “Pulcinella was supposed to have dropped my family off here. Have you seen any Shenzayans in the area?”

“I am afraid not,” Crepus shook his head sadly, Ajax's face fell in defeat “but some knights are currently out looking to see if anyone was left behind. Springvale is also still standing strong, with the hunters keeping watching, so there is a chance your family could be there.”

“How come the Fatui haven’t bothered to attack the Winery or Springvale?” Kaeya asked.

“I am not sure,” answered Crepus, “I suspect they are just going to wait it out until we surrender rather than wasting their resources on us. And by occupying the city, they have all the power they need.”

“The Fatui chose to invade before the crack of dawn, taking us by surprise. These are the few that escaped. The rest have either been killed or been held prisoner in the church.” Jean added, grief still evident in her voice and expression, her eyes were puffy from crying but she was able to compose herself for the time being.

“That would explain the Hilichruls. If they ran away, it is likely something powerful and familiar to them scared them off.” Kaeya’s eyes widened, “The Jester… he is here too.”

Hilichruls are only afraid to fight something they know is powerful, since they originate from Kheanri’ah it is safe to say they are familiar with the Jester’s abilities. Pierro was a once powerful mage that served Kaeya’s father and was quite famous throughout the kingdom. Kaeya does not know exactly where they have run off too but it is highly likely they escaped through the stone gate. He hopes that the Mililith will be able to take care of them. 

“He probably left while we were in the dungeon. It is likely that he used his powers to transport an entire army here in just a matter of hours,” Diluc added before turning to Kaeya and asked: “Do you know any other Harbinger that is with him?” 

“Not sure,” Kaeya shook his head, “he is close with the Doctor, he could be here too, but who knows who or what else he has brought with him?”

“I cannot let my siblings fall into the Doctors hands” Ajax’s voice was filled with venom at the mention of the second Harbinger, “he does all sorts of twisted things with children. Even that psycho crazy Knave treats kids better than him.”

“He’s right, but we need a plan if we want to be able to rescue the prisoners in the church and take back the city” Diluc noted.

Getting to the church while the entire city is occupied by Fatui is basically impossible. The only entrance that there is to the city is the front gates, meanwhile the church is at the very opposite end. There has to be a way for them to get to the back without needing to go through the front gates.

Kaeya’s eyes lit up, “My portals! They can get everyone in the church back to the winery in an instant. We just need to make sure that it is safe enough for people to walk through them without being spotted.”

“Not a bad idea… however, it is highly likely they have stationed guards at the church, we need something to grab their attention…” Crepus frowned thoughtfully

“We can attack the front gates” Jean suggested, “it is risky but since Mondstadt is surrounded by a moat we cannot attack from any other angle. Not to mention, the front entrance is furthest from the church which means we can bring all the soldiers towards the front, allowing Kaeya to be able to sneak in at the back.”

“We have to keep in mind that Pierro is one of the most powerful Harbingers, and the smartest” Ajax pointed out, “he is going to have a strong defence set up.”

“I know someone who can scout the area for us, without being noticed,” Jean suggested, “she is from the Adventures Guild and has an electro vision”

“Good,” Kaeya approved, “let’s meet with her and once we get the report back we can discuss plans with any Vision holder with fighting capabilities present, and then infiltrate the city.”

“I hear that thee is seeking my assistance in reclaiming the stolen land that is our kingdom. I, Fischl, the Prinzessin Der Verurteilung, will humbly accept your request to ascend into the night sky, stalking the enemy from above and-“

“She agrees to assist you.” the bird interrupted.

Fischl scoffed and stomped her foot, “Oz!”

“Umm Jean,” Kaeya sounded sceptic, “she is just a teenager, are you sure she is up to the task?”

Jean nodded “I wouldn’t put a child in danger just to spy on Fatui. Fischl’s power enables her to conceal herself as a bird, and thanks to the dark purple colours of the bird's feathers, she should blend in well with the night sky and be safe”

Kaeya did trust Jean, but that didn’t mean he still felt uneasy about sending in a teenager to investigate a city filled with Fatui who will most likely kill her on sight.

“I also want to hear it from her” Kaeya looked at Fischl and spoke firmly, “are you sure you are up to the task? If you need to back out, now is the time. No one will fault you if you do so”

“ ‘Tis no problem. I trust my dear Oz, if anything goes wrong, he knows what to do.”

“Good, go get yourself ready, and make sure to come back within the hour” Jean instructed as Fischl bowed and made her exit.

Kaeya sat on the winery’s front lawn, knees tucked to his chest to help calm the nerves that could be felt across his body. He watched as a purple raven ascended into the knight sky, his eye glued to its position until it was practically invisible, one blink and it was almost as if Fishcl disappeared. They agreed that if she doesn’t come back within the hour they will have to start preparations without her.

“Are you doing okay?” a soft voice spoke from behind. Kaeya turned to see Jean walking towards him, a concerned expression on her face.

Kaeya shrugged, “I am not sure, it has been so long since I have been here and so much has changed. It feels almost as if I haven't truly returned home…”

Jean hummed, sitting down beside him, “there is more to it then that isn’t there?”

He sighed, “there certainly nothing getting past you huh, Acting Grand Master”

She chucked, “I try my best”

There was a brief pause before Kaeya spoke up, “do you know where I was while I was away?”

Jean nodded slowly, “I have… a feeling, the companion you brought back with you is the Eleventh of the Fatui Harbingers, I assume you were a part of that organisation?”

Kaeya’s silence answered her question.

She sighed, “look Kaeya, I am not exactly fond of the Fatui, but considering that both yourself and the Eleventh are willing to help us I do trust you. Betraying an organisation that is as powerful as the Fatui isn't easy and I am sure there was more reason for you to join them in the first place other than you actually wanted to.”

“I am afraid…” Kaeya had to chose his words carefully, “there is more to it then that”

“What is it?”

“You know the twelfth Harbinger, Brighella?”

Jean didn’t respond, she didn't have to. She met the twelfth and felt something familiar from him. The way he walked, talked and behaved in the city was as if he was familiar with it. She never came to the conclusion that Kaeya was the twelfth, but she made the safe assumption that Brighella originated from Mondstadt. Now that Kaeya mentions him, and the fact that Brighella was announced as a new Harbinger shortly after he went missing…

“That was you” she said in realisation, “you were the twelfth Harbinger…”

Kaeya’s voice trembled, “I wasn’t sure how to tell you since, it was me who first offered the idea of more Fatui staying in the city, I planted that idea in your head. All that the Jester had to do was convince you further and-”

“Kaeya,” she interrupted firmly. She placed her hand on his shoulder, signalling him to look at her, “it was still my decision to make. I am not sure if I can convince you it wasn’t your fault and if that’s the case, then this is something that both you and I must fix together. If your offer, followed by my decision, leads to this then we must take responsibility and save our home.”

Kaeya smiled, but couldn’t hide the tears poking from his eyes, “thank you, for understanding Jean.”

She gently pulled him into a hug, rubbing her hand up and down his back. She knew that dwelling on each other’s mistakes wasn’t going to help either of them nor was it going to help Mondstadt.

So they will fight, and they will take back their home.

“I have returned!” Fishcl announced dramatically, getting the attention of everyone in the winery. 

“Fishcl!” Jean exclaimed, I am glad you are safe, we are just beginning to discuss plans now, do you have anything to note?”

“Mein Fraulein and I have noticed little to no blindspots within the city” Oz immediately spoke up for her, knowing that not everyone will understand what she has to say, “ There is at least one soldier walking down every street and alley, followed by two standing at each entrance. Several stand along the walls and of corse, the main gate is guarded and the church appears to be heavily guarded with troops, more is suspected to be inside”

“Can’t say I am surprised” says Jean, “it looks like stealth is not an option since there is a high chance of getting caught. We need a distraction. Even if Kaeya can generate portals, we need to ensure everyone’s safety in the church”

“I can lead an attack on the front gates,” says Diluc, “since I wield Pyro, distracting them should be easy, fire is known for catching one’s eye”

“Then we are going to have to gather as many vision holders as possible, they will be our greatest source of strength against someone like Pierro,” said Kaeya, he turned to his father an asked, “are there any here in the winery?”

Crepus nodded, “a few, some of them are not knights but they do have good fighting skills.”

“Eula, Amber and Albedo are both vision holders and Knights, I can have them at the front lines with Diluc, while Bennet and Fishcl can come with myself and Kaeya to the church.”

“Might I suggest something?” Fishcl piped up, “One of my my dear loyal subjects, who roams the Kingdom of Wolves, a capable worrior with the ability to weild a large grated word and summon the power of Electro-“

“She has a friend in Wolvendom with a claymore and electro vision, he can help” Oz interrupted.

Fishcl stomped her foot and pouted, “quit interrupting me will you!”

“Once you find him make sure he stays here and guards the winery.”  Diluc requested, “as much as I appreciate more allies on the front lines I want to make sure what is left of Mondstadt is safe here. If need be, the citizens must all evacuate to Liyue.”

“Will that be enough though?” Ajax asked, sounding concerned, “Pierro may not be the only Harbinger in the city. He has both a delusion and abyssal powers. His abilities equate to that of a god.”

“That should be no problem!” a cheery voice entered the room followed by a light comforting breeze. The bard stood at the doorway to Crepus’ study looking ready and confident, “Gnosis or not, I can handle him if need be.”

“Umm Venti…” Kaeya nudged his head towards the young teenager in the room, “I thought you were supposed to keep that information to yourself.”

The bard just shrugged, “What can I say? I am a carefree spirit? Besides, we have bigger things at steak. If I am to go against the Harbinger, my true self will be exposed anyway…”

Fishcl however just look stunned, “I… uhhh”

“Mein Fraulien!” the bird hissed, noticing the girl acting out of character.

“Apologies!” She huffed out a laugh, and then bowed, “it will be an honor to fight alongside the Anemo Archon.” 

Venti smirked, “You remind me of my old friend, Furina, she sure is quite the character, but I am sure you two will be grate friends.”

The girl looked puzzled, “who?”

“We are getting off track!” Jean raised her voice, but not in a harsh way, “Venti I suggest you hide somewhere in the city until your needed, we cannot afford to show the Jester our trump card too early, it is best to take him by surprise”

“Of course, Acting Grandmaster! I will be watching from the sky!”

“Good, we have our groups” said Jean, “if any vision holders or knights found in the church are willing to continue to fight, we can scatter them across the city, taking out any Fatui that may be hiding in tricky places, such as the towers, walls and alleyways.”

“So,” Kaeya gave his friend a knowing look, “when shall we start Acting Grand Master?”

“I am going to give everyone a maximum of 24 hours to prepare. As much as I wish for more time, we need to take our city back quickly so we can save everyone inside the walls. Kaeya, I will need to discuss something with you first before we get started”

Chapter Text

While the group gets ready for battle, Kaeya is ordered by Jean, his brother and father to rest for the next eight hours. Despite his protests, they insisted he should since his portals play a vital role in getting them into the city and he must be well rested if he is to transport that many people.

Kaeya wasn’t too happy with being left out of preparing like everyone else. He felt bad that all his friends and family were working hard to put this plan in motion while he slept in a comfortable bed.

He took the opportunity to observe his new Cryo Vision. The small object was bright in the dark room he was in, the pale blue light almost blinding him. He never thought that he would receive one as a Kheanri'an, but it looks like the Gods don't care for ones origins, just their current actions. 

Kaeya clipped the vision back onto his belt. He hopes it will come in handy tonight. He may not have received any training on how to use it but from watching his brother use his pyro vision and watching Ajax use his hydro, Kaeya was able to make some simple observations on how visions are suppose to work.

He laid there in silence, on his bed which has been well made and left untouched for four years, waiting for sleep to consume him eventually. He didn’t bother to take his clothes off and tuck himself in since he must be ready to wake up at any moment the winery is attacked. Kaeya is not normally the paranoid type but when your own city is under siege by the Fatui you are not really given a choice.

His thoughts raced with all the things that could go wrong. Pierro is a tough opponent to go up against. It is a relief the Anemo Archon is on their side, however there is the chance that if other Harbingers are within the city, Venti could find himself easily overpowered by them. 

Kaeya also thought about Fishcl, she was so young to be fighting for her city. Kaeya knows that you can become a knight at her age but even then it is scary to see young teens in a war. No child should have to find themselves fighting in a war or caught in the crossfire. If her or any of the other kids don’t make it out alive, Kaeya would never forgive himself.

A knock on the door interrupted the negative scenarios playing out his head. “You can come in”

Opening the door was Adelinde, she peeked inside, like she used to when Kaeya was a child. It is a small habit she would pick up when trying to disturb his sleep.

 She would often quietly check up on him in the middle of the night due to his nightmares some nights Kaeya would pretend to sleep and watch her. He was curious but also wary of what she is doing but as trust and love built he eventually fell sound asleep unaware of her quietly entering the room.

“I see you are still awake, Master Kaeya” she bowed her head in greeting, Kaeya noticed that she was holding a tray with a steaming cup sitting on it, “I made you some tea, strong, just the way you like it.”

Kaeya sat up suddenly, “Adelinde you didn’t-”

“Oh shush you! Of course I did. I haven't had the pleasure of serving you hot tea in four years” she gently placed the tray on his bedside table, which allowed him to stand up off the bed and bring her into a sudden hug.

“I haven't had the chance to talk to you yet, I missed you, Adelinde”

“Oh, my dear…” the woman wrapped her arms around him, his body now towered over her, allowing his cheek to rest atop of her head, “my young boy is a man now, you are so tall”

Before Kaeya could comment, he heard a muffled sob. Tears pricked down the maids cheeks and she squeezed the man she was embracing tighter, before her eyes widened and she realised what she was doing.

“Archons!” Adelinde pushed away from him, covering her mouth as if it could stop him from hearing how upset she sounded, “Apologies Master Kaeya, I must go-”

She turned to leave but Kaeya immediately shot out his hand to grasp her wrist, “No, Adelinde, please don’t leave” he begged, she seemed to relax a bit and gently let go of her wrist.

“I’m so sorry!” she cried, Kaeya felt his heart shatter hearing her upset tone. Adelinde has always been so strong when he was a child, it hurts to see her at her breaking point, “you have changed so much and I miss you-”

“I miss you too Adelinde,” he pulled her into another embrace, allowing her to cry her eyes out as he held her. She was his protector as a child, his second mother. Kaeya could not imagine a childhood without her.

Adelinde rarely got upset in front of him and Diluc, she never wanted them to see her sad or angry and wanted to be the person they can be emotionally vulnerable with and not burden them with any of her own problems. But of course that changes now that Kaeya is an adult. He has to learn to help take care of those who raised him too. 

“You shouldn’t be the one apologising,” he confessed, “I have hid many secrets from you, Diluc, father and all of my friends, because I was scared I was going to lose you, Adelinde.”

“My dear master Kaeya” she held onto her sobs and brought her hand to his chin, “you do not need to hide anything from me, you can trust me. From you silly secret crushes from when you were a teenager to your own origins, nothing would stop me from loving you.

Kaeya’s expression turned soft, but he couldn’t hold back the tears from his eyes, “thank you, Adelinde.

“So… are you all clear with what your missions are?” Jean asks the three knights in front of her. She was lucky to have them here with her since the situation in Mondstadt is dire and they can use all the firepower they have.

“Affirmative” Eula nods, “I will meet with Diluc on the front lines and clear a way so Amber can gain access to higher ground”

“And I will keep watch from above!” Amber added with a salute.

“And I will check if there are any civilians hiding in the area and get them to safety,” says Albedo, “Klee also gave me some explosives we could use in case we cannot escape through the front gates

“Good, Lisa is familiar with the kid from Wolvendom so they will both remain here guarding the winery. Klee may also be a vision user but since she is only a child she too will have to remain here” Jean added the last sentence mainly to comfort Albedo as he is very protective of his little sister.

Albedo nodded, “Klee is a force to be reckoned with. The Fatui will have no chance of harming her”

“Are you sure there isn’t any other vision wielder that can assist us?” Eula asks.

“Unfortunately, no” Jean shakes her head sadly, “the other known vision holders in the church are: Rosaria, Noelle, Mona, Sucrose, my sister Barbara and Diona. Rosaria and Noelle can assist us in the fighting once Kaeya and myself free them but they could also be injured. I will also get Kaeya to send me down to the front lines to assist you in case things go south.”

“I hate to say this now, but I am a little concerned Jean” Eula had an uncertain expression, “are you sure we can trust the two Harbingers? What if they betray us?”

“I agree with Eula,” said Amber, “I have never met this Kaeya guy in person and I don’t know if I can trust him”

Jean sighed, she had a feeling some would have trouble building trust with Kaeya after she revealed his past to them. Kaeya did wish he could continue to keep it a secret but he unfortunately had to let it go in order to build trust with the other knights. Jean was worried it would make them question things.

“Look I know you just met him, but Kaeya has been one of my closest friends growing up, and both he and Diluc are brothers, and they would have no reason to betray each other. As long as one is loyal to Mondstadt so is the other. I do understand if you have any suspicions, but please know that you must trust me. I believe Kaeya is willing to help us”

“The bonds of family are strong” says Albedo, “Klee and I are not related by blood but we share a strong connection, and she is the reason why I too am loyal to this city and it’s people. This is our home, and I will do whatever it takes to protect it. I trust your judgement, Acting Grandmaster.”

Jean silently agreed. Barbara is the reason she chooses to help save the citizens in the church with Kaeya rather then fight on the front lines. She knows that she is most likely better off where the fighting is but she would not forgive herself if Barbara gets hurt during the attack.”

“Very well, I trust you and I will follow you to the end,” says Eula.

Amber nods in agreement, “me too”

“Then it’s settled, say your goodbyes and meet Diluc near the bridge into the city, he will give the order to attack.”

After finally managing to get a few hours of sleep, Kaeya wakes up and opens his eyes to see Ajax standing in the doorway watching him intently.

“Feeling rested, I hope?” He sits down beside him.

Kaeya yawns, “some rest is better than no rest. Besides, I could use a real bed, especially since the last time I fell asleep was in a prison cell.” 

He felt a gentle touch on his back, he faced the man beside him, his expression concerned, “are you doing okay? You seem nervous…”

Kaeya shrugged, “just thinking about all the things that could go wrong. It scares me that my friends and family are putting their lives on the line for this city. Working with others has never been my forte, not because I don’t trust them but because I don’t want them to get hurt.”

“Well, that certainly explains why you would often send your subordinates to work for other Harbingers or just use them as informants” Ajax remarked.

He shook his head, “that was different, no matter how much they pledge their loyalty to me I couldn’t trust my soldiers while in the Fatui. Pierro always had more control than I did. I just felt safer alone.”

“Yet… you allowed me to come on a few of your missions” Ajax said.

Kaeya shuffled his hands nervously, his head pointing in the opposite direction to hide the pink on his cheeks, “you were different… You were a capable fighter and I trusted you the most, because unlike some the other Harbingers, you actually care about the innocent.”

Ajax smiled, “Well, I will be happy to be by your side for this fight too, if you will allow me?”

He nodded, “Of course, it will be an honor.”

Ajax’s expression then dropped, “There is something you should know, if things don't go the way we want to tonight. I will use it. My Foul Legacy,” he paused, "I thought...you should know.

Kaeya’s eyes widened, “what… no, you can’t possibly do that Ajax, it will hurt you.”

“I know” the redhead’s tone was firm, “I know you do not like to see me use it but… my family’s lives could be on the line, not to mention yours too. If we end up facing Pierro, I will need all the power I have. For what it’s worth, I look forward to facing him, finally testing my abilities on the most powerful Harbinger…”

Kaeya then stood in front of him, fist clenched and voice harsh, “No Ajax, you must promise me that you will do no such thing. I know what is at risk and swear I will do what it takes to save everyone in that church,” he then knelt down, grasping onto Ajax’s wrist like he was begging, “you are no less important than my own family, Ajax, I need you- your siblings need you. Don’t throw away your life for the sake of facing Pierro”

The redhead looked down at the man begging in front of him, expression unreadable.

“Promise me…” Kaeya whispered.

Ajax sighed, “ok, I promise.”

“Thank you…”  Kaeya held onto him 

It was time for them to go. Jean made a final announcement to the citizens of the winery of the plan to attack the city. She manages to get several volunteers from the crowed to help in the fight, some were former knights and others were vision wielders with moderate fighting capabilities. She leaves Lisa in charge of taking care of the remaining citizens inside.

Now small army stands outside the winery, putting on gear and prepping their weapons. Their numbers were small but hopefully with Kaeya's abilities they will have the upper hand.

Diluc was helping Kaeya make a couple of final adjustments to the set of armour he borrowed from the knights. It wasn’t a perfect fit but Jean promised him to get his own forged once the fighting was over and his crimes were pardoned.

Knights and volunteer fighters said goodbye to their families, tears were shed and hugs were exchanged. Fighting for a city will mean that some lives may be lost tonight. However it will be a fight that will go down in Mondstadts history one way or another. 

“It’s been a long time since I have seen you wear that” Kaeya’s thoughts were interrupted by a soft voice.

“Father…”

Crepus approached both of his sons and brought them into a hug at the same time, “you two have come so far. I am so proud to call you my sons”

Diluc couldn’t control the small tear trickle down his cheek, “thank you father…”

“Please be careful, both of you. I cannot lose one or even both of my sons to Fatui, not again.”

“We will be at peace again, Father” Kaeya promised, Diluc nodded in agreement “and I promise we'll both come home.”

“You better, Adelinde is going to make your favorite biscuits when you come back”

“Sounds perfect” says Diluc, both brothers hug their dad one last time.

“Let’s go” said Kaeya, Diluc nodded in response and rode his horse towards the crowd of soldiers being led by him and Eula.  

Kaeya summoned his powers, he has gotten quite used to them over the last four years, but thanks to the fact he has a vision he will be a force to be reckoned with tonight.

A large portal appeared before him, glowing a light blue hue illuminating the Winery’s front yard. Ajax, Jean, Fischl and Bennet all stood behind him in awe of the Abyssal power in front of them. Abyssal magic may be frowned upon but you cannot deny its beauty.

Kaeya turned to the group behind him, his expression determined, “Time to take back our city”

Chapter Text

It was dark when they rode out to the city. Diluc was on horseback, alongside Eula, Amber and Albedo. Jean had discussed strategy with them and he was ready to fight with the Knights of Favonius again. 

Diluc has never fought alongside these new knights before. Amber was still young when he first left, Albedo only arrived in Mondstadt recently and while he did know Eula from their families being part of the aristocratic society, Diluc has never really spoken to her. He is not exactly fond of the Laurence clan but that doesn't mean he will judge Eula as a person based on her family history. He respects that she chooses to fight for her city and believes that her intentions are good.

The rest of the troops that they have managed to rally marched behind them. Knights were at the front since they are trained to fight while the volunteers were more towards the back. Diluc knows that some of them may die in this battle, but he hopes that most of the volunteers will make in through, since they were never really suppose to find themselves in this situation.

They arrive  at the road running along cider lake and Diluc halts, everyone behind him stops as well. He doesn't want to get too close to the city just yet.

“The bridge is most likely guarded,” He informed the knights riding beside him, “Eula and myself will take care of the blockade, Albedo and Amber, you will run towards the gate once the way is clear and blow it up”

“Sounds good to me” says Amber, Eula and Albedo simply nod.

Diluc then turned his horse and faced the army behind them.

“This is it everyone!” Diluc shouted over the soldiers that stood before him, armored up and ready to fight by his side, “today, history will be made. Mondstadt lost its freedom once long ago, but the people never gave up and continued to fight against their oppressors. We will not let these invaders take away the City of Freedom!”

The army roared, raising their weapons to the sky.

“For Mondstadt!” Diluc yelled one more time before charging on his horse towards the gate, Eula, Amber and Albedo not far behind him. He could hear the thousands of footsteps of their troops charging in behind him. 

As expected, there is  a Fatui blockade on the bridge, with makeshift fences and soldiers with their weapons ready. Diluc’s plan is to take all them out first with Dawn and wipe the bridge clean so the troops can charge through with ease.

His claymore lit up with Pyro, flames licking at the blade. He could hear the Fatui were preparing to fire their weapons, but before even one bullet or arrow could hit him he steared his horse sideways and pulled on the rains so he could swipe his claymore with perfect accuracy allowing the massive pyro bird to swoop across the bride, knocking off all soldiers and burning the wood.

Eula was now beside him, dancing around gracefully with her claymore, slicing and stabbing any soldiers remaining. Diluc is fascinated how she is able to fight so elegantly with such a heavy weapon.

“Now Albedo!”

The alchemist sprinted towards the front gates, planting the bombs he got from his younger sister. Diluc will not question now why a child owns explosives, but that is a conversation for when this battle ends.

Diluc then quickly dismounted and smacked the side of his horse to scare it off so it was out of the way, safe from battle. Eula, Amber and the rest of the soldiers sprinted past him when the bombs that Albedo planted at the gates detonated. Blasting the gate to pieces. 

While clearing the bridge did give them a head start, there were still thousands of Fatui inside the city walls.  Agents, Skirimishers, maidens and mages that were all waiting in the city were already clashing with their troops.

Amber and a couple of other archers managed to make it to the top of the wall, good, Diluc thought to himself, now they have some high ground they can take out the Fatui soldiers below.

They had the upper hand, Diluc was whipping out soldiers left and right, the heat of his Pyro vision could be felt from any soldier that walked through the gate from inside the city. Things were going smoothly until screams and shouts could be heard from his own side.

“EVERYONE GET DOWN!” he heard Amber's voice scream, and before Diluc could react a large projectile of Hydro came barreling towards him. He didn't have enough time to move out of away from a blast that lage so using all the power he can from his vision he used his pyro infused claymore to counter the blast and while he was able to absorb most of the damage the impact sent him flying back onto the cobblestone.

The sudden contact with the Hydro caused steam to rise up around him, blinding his surroundings, Diluc grunted and picked himself up as quick as possible, readying himself for whoever or whatever sent that massive projectile. Picking up his claymore he again ignited it and flourished it around him to see more clearly. He could see bodies of the soldiers that fought by his side and against him surrounding him on the bridge.

“Tsk, that's unfortunate,” a shadowy figure could be seen through the fog, Diluc held up his claymore in front of him defensively.

The steam and smoke cleared, revealing a Fatuus with a much more decorated get up than his fellow comrades, Diluc suspects for him to be a high ranking officer, but since the man just used the power of hydro, without a vision, he must be…

“You’re a Harbinger… Pierro?” His voice sounded unsure, he wasn’t 

Despite his eyes being hidden behind a mast, Diluc saw his highly amused expression, “Ha! No, since you are not familiar with me I am what they call the Doctor,”

Diluc tensed when he recognised the title, “I have heard of you before, they say you experiment on people, children…you are also the second Harbinger.”

“Well I cannot deny what you have just stated,” the Doctor shrugged, like him being a psychopath is old news. Next, he immediately raised his hands and another jet of Hydro shot out towards Diluc but he was ready this time and rolled to the side with ease.

Diluc sprinted towards the doctor in response, preparing to attack, the Doctor continued to shoot out jets of Hydro towards him and Diluc dodged each one with ease, when he got in close and swung his flaming claymore towards the Doctors neck, he was immediately pushed backwards and before he could react he was tumbling around under water. The current was too strong for him to paddle up and breath, leaving him helpless as he tumbled like a ragdoll until the wave slowly came to the stop.

Diluc coughed up the remaining water in his lungs, his clothes and hair was soaked, taking in his surroundings he could see that the massive wave that the doctor created sent him back on the other side of the bridge.

“Give up, young Ragnivindr, you cannot defeat me,” the Doctor walked over towards him as Diluc pushed himself up off the ground.

“What is it you want with this city? Don’t you Fatui have enough control over Teyvat as is? And where are the other Harbingers?”

“Good gracious so many questions…” the Doctor let out a fake sigh, “but I suppose there is no harm in answering. We are here to teach this city a lesson for the unjust sanctions that were put against us, it is not just about control. As for the other Harbingers, they are currently doing the Tsaritsa’s will in the other five nations, collecting Gnosis and teaching those that defy us a lesson”

Dilic scoffed, “Unjust sanctions? You Fatui kidnapped my brother!”

“That was Pierro’s doing, not the Fatui, but I suppose you Mondstadters never cared for technicalities and decided to take it out on all of us hmm?”

“I am not he to debate who is technically at fault, you invaded my home, and I will take it back from you” Diluc charged at the Harbinger in front of him.

The Doctor rolled his eyes, “Archons you are such a nuisance…” and with a simple wave of his hand a powerful hydro blast knocked Diluc back on the ground.

Diluc’s head throbbed from the hard hit, his vision was blurred, but he was able to make out the Doctor’s boots in front of his face.

The Harbinger bent down to his level, making eye contact with the half-conscious redhead.

“Don’t worry, I won't kill you Ragnivindr. Pierro has plans on bringing his nephew back and he most certainly won't be siding with us if you were dead, so I unfortunately must spare your life.” his grin then turned vicious, “sweet dreams!”

And with a strong and painful kick to his head, felt darkness overcome him.

A bright blue portal glows behind the church at the graves, a man dressed in his Harbinger armor steps out and scopes the area before poking his head back through to give his friends the all clear. While he may be wearing the attire he wore as a Fatui, he left his mask off for today, since he is fighting for Mondstats freedom as Kaeya, not as Brighella.

One by one, Bennet, Fischl, Jean and Ajax jumped through.

“Ajax and I will sneak out to the front to check for guards and take them out” Kaeya whispers, Jean nods, signaling them to move.

Kaeya sneaks alongside the church, his steps barely making a sound as he remains in the shadows. His time as a Harbinger has helped enhance his sneaking abilities. He is able to infiltrate almost any building in Teyvat due to his teleportation powers and stealth.

Ajax may not be the stealthy type like Kaeya, but he was able to pick up a few tricks from Kaeya whenever they were on missions together. While Ajax’s bloodlust does scream at him to jump headfirst into battle, he is smart enough to control himself and not wreak havoc when it could cost the lives of his allies.

They stayed close to the wall as they got closer to the front of the church, Kaeya quickly poked his head around and saw two guards posted at the front.

He signals Ajax to stop and listens in to the conversation the guards are having.

“How long are we supposed to be keeping these people in the church? Can’t exactly rule the city if all the city’s people are cooped up doing nothing” one guard spoke.

“Have you not been paying attention? Some of the people have escaped, we must keep this lot in one place so they don't try anything funny. Besides, it was the Lord Harbingers orders to keep them here until the rest from the Dawn Winery runs out of resources and is forced to return.” Said the other

“Tire them out rather then using our resources to attack them, very clever”

“Indeed, the Lord Harbinger is very efficient.”

Kaeya continued to wait against the wall of the church, signaling Ajax to do the same. They could take them down easily but it is best to wait for Diluc’s signal first and see if they can get the guards to move themselves.

And just like that a loud explosion was heard from the direction of the front gates.

“What the hell was that?” one of the guards screeched.

“Lets go! It could be the Dawn Winery stragglers.”

“All clear!” Kaeya signaled the rest of their group to come to the front once the guards were out of sight.

With his quick hands, he was able to pick and the front doors lock. The church doors then open, revealing all the people inside.

Hundreds of heads turned towards the doors opening, some flinching as if they were expecting someone else.

Kaeya has never seen so many people jammed into one place before, this church is holding way more people then the winery was holding. He hopes his father and the doctors waiting will be able to handle them all while they take back the city.

Barbara comes bursting through the crowd.

“Jean!” she cries, leaping into her older sister's arms. 

“Oh Barbara…” Jean holds her tightly “I am so glad you are alright”

It has been a few years since Kaeya saw any of Jean’s family. He still remembers Barbara as a little toddler. Barbara was only twelve when he left, she has certainly grown a lot while he was away.

Another woman comes through the crowds, she is tall, has short pinkish red hair and pale skin. She was wearing the outfit of a nun but was more gothic than the traditional attire.

“It is good to see you here, acting Grand Master” said the woman, “we heard the noise outside, what exactly is going on?”

“Those who have escaped the Fatui’s invasion are attacking the front gates, we are taking our city back tonight” Jean informed her.

“That’s good to hear, but how are we supposed to move all these people out?”

“Don’t worry, we have a way to get everyone safely out as quickly as possible but before I explain, do any of you carry your visions?”

The woman shook her head solemnly, “No, the Fatui have them, not exactly sure where they are. But visionless or not, as long as I have a spear I can fight”

“Same here!” another voice came out of the crowd of people, a young woman with white hair and a worn maid outfit made her way through, “I have training in all Favonious weaponry”

“It is good to see you too, Noelle, and thank you.” Jean smiled at her enthusiasm, “while I am grateful you and Rosaria are offering a hand, I need everyone to help me bring the wounded out first so we can get them out of here as quickly as possible,”

She nodded towards Kaeya, signaling him to open the portal.

Using all his strength and power Kaeya created a large gate directing in front of the church doors. Normally he isn't able to make large portals that last for more then ten minutes but since he has a deep connection with what's on the other side, he is able to maintain it. It was a part of his training as a Harbinger to maintain connection to different locations, whether it was positive or negative as long as he knows the place, his portals can take him there.

He relaxed and could hear many collective gasps from behind him, this kind of power is very unfamiliar to the people of Mondstadt, so Kaeya doesn't really blame them if they find themselves frightened. 

“Do not be afraid,” Jeans authoritative tone echoes above the hushed whispers of the crowd, “this gate leads outside of the city and is safe for you all to pass through, our young Adventures, Bennet and Fishcl will be there on the other side.”

Bennet jumped through the portal and quickly jumped back out from the other side, “see? Completely safe!”

The people still seemed unsure, but Bennet’s demonstration at least managed to convince them to slowly start carrying their wounded through the gate.

Kaeya checked to see how Ajax was doing and could see his friend standing on his toes, frantically scanning the slow moving crowd crawling out of the church's doors, he could tell that the young man was hoping for any sign of his siblings.

“Archons is that… Ajax!” a familiar voice cried from the crowd, Kira came rushing through, wrapping her arms around her son.

“Mother is that you?!” Ajax cried out.

A ginger haired woman punished out of the crowds, bringing her son into a tight embrace. More voices of younger children could be heard from inside the church as three of them came rushing out of the church.

“Brother!” Tuecer shouted excitedly, three children all joined in on the hug.

Kaeya could see he was doing his best to hold back tears, “I am so glad that you are all safe… where’s father?”

Kira shook her head sadly, the smiles of Ajax’s siblings dropped, “Your father went out to defend our camp when the Fatui attacked, he didn’t make it”

Tears slid down his best friend’s cheeks but his head was held high and his voice remained steady, “I am forever grateful he kept you safe in his final moments, he died a hero”

Kaeya couldn't tell what is going through his best friends head at the moment, but he can sense some level of disappointment a guilt. Ajax never got the opportunity to reconcile with his own father before his death, and it is because of the very organisation they worked in his father had to die protecting the one thing Ajax cared about.

“I apologise for interrupting this reunion but all of you must leave soon, the Fatui are likely to have discovered us by now” said Jean, guiding Ajax’s family to the portal.

“I will see you all soon!” he waved to them.

“Bye Ajax!” his siblings called out to him, his mum had tears in her eyes, but she was also smiling, waving to her son, looking proud that he is finally turning into a Hero.

“Okay Jean, your next” says Kaeya.

“Kaeya! You should send me to the frontlines, I can still fight!” she insists. 

“I know Jean, but some of the people are injured, Barbara can't do all the healing, especially since she has no vision.

Jean sighed in defeat, knowing he was right, “Very well, stay safe, you as well, Harbinger.”

And after the final citizen went through she jumped through the portal after them.

Kaeya nodded to Ajax, “okay, you next”

Ajax made a jump for the portal but it vanished before he could get through, Kaeya suddenly felt all the power in him drain as if he lost a sudden load of energy, he felt a cold metallic band on his wrist snap in place.

“No!” he cried, trying to pry off the metal bracelet. Footsteps could be heard coming up the stairs.

“The Doctor certainly is quite the genius, isn’t he?” Pierro grinned, walking towards the pair, the Doctor not too far behind him.

“Ahh, you flatter me Jester, divine energy is hard to come by but it comes in real handy”

“Now, we can do this the easy way; you tell me where you sent the Acting Grand Master, you all surrender and Mondstadt now belongs to the Fatui.” Abyssal energy swirls around him, his eyes glow a faint blue, “or, what I like to call, the annoying way, I can kill you both, find her myself, and force them to surrender”

Kaeya took a quick glance at Ajax, who gave him a nod.

He then turned back to his uncle, cryo infused sword in hand, “I will not surrender my home and the people I love to someone like yourself.”

The Doctor grinned like the psychopath he was, clearly eager to fight. Meanwhile, Pierro rolled his eyes and sighed, “The annoying way it is”

Chapter Text

“Ragnivindr…wake up!... wake up!...Diluc!” 

Diluc groaned, his head was throbbing, like there was a hard pulse rattling his skull.

“Master Diluc!”

Diluc could hear a voice in the distance but he struggled to reach them. His body felt like a lead weight. Was he dead?

“Mark my words Diluc, if you die I will seek vengeance in the afterlife when I meet you there!”

Eula… the voice was definitely Eula’s… what was she doing? Right, there was a battle, he was fighting by her side and then…

His memory suddenly came flooding back and Diluc sat up quickly, hyperventilating.

“Oh goodness, I didn’t actually mean it when I said I swore vengeance on you-” Eula spoke quickly.

“No, no…” Diluc raised his hand, interrupting her, he slowed down his breathing, “I just remembered, the Doctor, where is he?”

“Amber spotted him heading towards the church, we suspect that he is after Kaeya, do you know if any other Harbinger has arrived?”

Dammit, Diluc thought, he hoped Kaeya escaped with the others before the Harbingers can spot him. Diluc knew of Dottore’s device which can block Kaeya’s powers. If the Doctor gets to him then he would be in trouble.

“Doctor told me they were out in the other nations,” he informed her.

“That’s strange, why would he reveal that to you?”

Diluc shrugged, “guess he is feeling confident, but right now we must go after him, I cannot lose Kaeya again”

“Are you all right to fight?” she asked, he never heard Eula sound so concerned. Perhaps she is not as heartless as some people say.

Diluc nodded, “no broken bones, just some bruises and most likely a concussion…”

“I would order you to rest, but you're too stubborn to do that right?” Eula folded her arms.

“You’d be correct”

She sighed and extended her hand out, helping him up, “well guess there is no point in trying, just stay behind me, we can’t have you survive a Harbinger only to get killed by a Cicin Mage’s bug.”

“I promise to be careful”

“Good,” she tossed him his claymore, which he caught with ease, “lets go help your brother”

Kaeya and Ajax stood side by side, their determination unwavering despite the overwhelming odds stacked against them. Across from them, Pierro and The Doctor exuded an aura of calculated confidence, ready to crush any resistance in their path.

Kaeya knew of Pierro’s ability to wield all seven elements, plus abyssal powers. The man was notorious for hoarding delusions and is able to use them without any consequence. A part of it is thanks to his immortality curse. As a pure blood Kheanri’ahn, nothing can kill him. Kind of a nuisance when you want him out of your city.

Kaeya's cryo vision remained active, a shimmering beacon of frost amid the chaos of battle. However, his abyssal powers surged within him, wanting to be released from the shackles that the Doctor places upon them. With a flicker of his icy blade, Kaeya engaged with his Uncle, in a dance of swift strikes and calculated manoeuvres.

“You cannot defeat me, Kaeya” Pierro sent a wave of Denro, and Hydro attacks, leaving behind cores which are like landmines if you are too close to them, Kaeya swiftly backed away from them, “If my powers wont save me, then my curse will”

Pierro may be powerful, but that doesnt mean Kaeya was helpless. He did train him after all. Kaeya never defeated him in a proper fight but he did learn some things from the Harbinger’s overall fighting style. Pierro is the type to toy with his weaker opponents, wear them down, before striking hard once they are really weak.

Meanwhile, Ajax unleashed the power of his electro delusion to counter the Doctor’s Hydro, crackling energy coursing through his veins as he faced off against The Doctor and his formidable Hydro delusion. With a whirlwind of agility and precision, Tartaglia dodged blasts of water and countered with electrifying assaults, each strike resonating with the fury of a thunderstorm.

The battlefield became a canvas of elemental chaos, as blasts of water clashed with shards of ice, and bolts of lightning illuminated the night sky. 

Kaeya’s constant dodging is slowly tiring him but he cannot give up yet. A massive Pyro projectile came straight towards him but before it could strike him Kaeya focused o the power of his vision willing it to protect him, and shortly after a crystal blue shield surrounded him blocking the blast.

While the shield did protect him from a deadly strike, more waves of elements came flying towards him, his shield was depleted before a large rock of geo barrelled towards him sending him flying back and his body smacking the walls of the church, instantly knocking him unconscious. 

“Kaeya!” Ajax screamed, watching his body crumple to the ground. He saw Pierro slowly walk towards his lifeless body with a sharp icicle in hand, ready to finish the job. 

“I was planning on showing mercy on you my nephew, perhaps I could've given you a second chance. But since you chose to stand in my way, I am left with no other choice..”

Ajax wanted nothing more than to jump in front of Kaeya but he was too busy holding his ground against the doctor.

In order to save Kaeya, he would have to break his promise.

“I’m sorry, Kaeya,” he said softly.

He then turned to the beast deep within himself, his body started to grow, fingers morphed into claws and a mask covered his face.

With his foul legacy summoned, the Doctor was taken by surprise as sparks of electro struck him sending him flying back down the steps of the church, with this power, Ajax was able to move at speeds like he was almost teleporting. He quickly jumped in front of Kaeya, blocking Pierro’s sharp icicle with his electro blades. The sudden contact between the cryo and electro elements sent electricity zapping through the air.

“That was a mistake” Pierro grunted, trying to push Ajax’s sword away from him. 

Ajax used all the strength he had in his foul legacy to keep Pierro off Kaeya. Combining his electro and hydro abilities, he sent Pierro flying back away from Kaeya’s body with a powerful electro-charged reaction. If he wants to fight this man he needs to make sure Kaeya stays out of the crossfire. 

Unlike the doctor, Pierro didn’t stumble or fall when he was pushed away, maintaining a strong stance. 

He wasn’t able to check if the Doctor is conscious or not, but all he can do is hope for the latter and focus on his fight with Pierro. 

“I had high hopes for you Tartaglia” Pierro picked himself up easily, brushing his shoulders, “you had the potential to become the most powerful Harbinger, the Tsaritsa provided everything for you and your family, wealth, power, the freedom to travel and do as you please in any nation, and yet, you throw it all away for a traitor…”

With a loud battle cry, Ajax lunged forward, his movements fluid and precise as he sought to close the distance between himself and his opponent. Pierro met his advance with a barrage of elemental attacks, each strike imbued with the power of all seven elements. 

Ducking and weaving through the onslaught, Ajax summoned the power of his foul legacy form, unleashing torrents of electro and hydro that crackled through the air like lightning. The two combatants clashed in a storm of elemental fury, each blow ringing out like thunder against the night sky.

Ajax was strong, but unfortunately he wasn't strong enough. He could feel the effects of his Foul Legacy slowly wear him down, his movements and attacks becoming more sluggish and is now only resorting to dodging and blocking Pierro’s ongoing attacks.

His defensive manoeuvres are now failing him, and Ajax feels as if he is on the verge of passing out, but no, he cannot give up, he must keep fighting for Kaeya.

He will not let the Fatui take away those he loves now.

A large geo pillar struck Ajax right in his stomach, sending him backwards.  As he fell he could feel his strength completely drain from him causing his foul legacy form to deactivate, leaving nothing but his weak human form.

He tried to push himself back up but it was no use, his muscles were burning, his body was exhausted, and he only used his form for a few minutes, normally he was able to go longer than that. Ajax realised that it wasn’t the form that has worn him down. It was Pierro.

“I only taught Kaeya a few of the basics with abyssal magic, there are many techniques I wish I could teach him, the one I used against you included.” Dark blue and purple swirls of abyssal energy circled the Harbinger’s finger tips, “slowly but surely, with each moment I struck you, your body had to endure more abyssal magic then it could handle, eventually wearing you down, to the point where you feel like you want to go to sleep…”

The magic then disappeared and Pierro walked towards Ajax, sharp cryo icicle in hand.

“I will say though, you lasted longer than expected. Your time in the abyss as a child did you a few favours” Pierro’s expression was natural, and unbothered, looking down at Ajax as if he is some annoying insect. His face then went hard as he quickly brought down the sharp piece of ice and stabbed him right in the stomach.

Ajax didn’t have the energy to scream, all he could let out was a small grunt at the sharp pain in his lower body. He tried to breath but all he did was choke and taste warm blood on his lips.

“To bad it wasn’t enough” Pierro yanked the shard out and then walked away, completely ignoring Ajax’s pathetic cries as he strides towards Kaeya’s body.

Ajax struggled to keep his eyes open, his vision getting blurry. He tried to reach out to Kaeya but all he could feel was a warm flame and a gentle breeze, the pain in his body suddenly faded, perhaps he was going numb and slowly dying. 

The last thing he saw before he was lulled to sleep is a teal green figure floating in front of him, surrounded by swirls of anemo, the wind comforted him, allowing him to finally close his eyes.

Chapter Text

Warmth engulfed Kaeya’s mind and body when he finally woken, he could feel every muscle in his body relax, like he was experiencing a nice dream. He recalled what went on in his head, it was foggy, but it felt like a nightmare which was then swiftly blown away after a few moments and turned into something safe and warm, like home.

Upon opening his eyes, Kaeya was once again comforted by that same feeling when he recognised the familiar ceiling patterns of the dawn winery, able to recognise them instantly from growing up and sleeping in this exact room. Spending nights where he cannot sleep just gazing at the patterns until his eyes felt tired.

“Hey, Kaeya, you’re awake!” A gentle voice half whispered and yelled, clearly wanting his attention without completely startling him. Kaeya turned to see two almost identical redheads, his father and brother, both watching over him as he was resting.

Upon making eye contact, Kaeya could feel all the nightmarish memories flood back into his mind as he suddenly sat up.

Diluc gently grasped his shoulders, “whoa Kaeya slow down you just woke-”

“Ajax!” Kaeya finally found his voice, “is he-”

“He is okay Kaeya…” Diluc assured him, “he is currently in the med ward at the church, the knights decided to keep an eye on him due to his… affiliation”

Diluc didn’t need to explain further than that, Kaeya knew what he meant. What he didn’t get is why Ajax is being watched and not him. Kaeya might have grown up here but he is or was a Harbinger too.

At the corner of his eye, Kaeya saw the bard walk through the door. The young looking man’s expression lit up seeing him awake.

“It is good to see you well, young Ragnivindr.” He spoke softly.

Kaeya chose to ignore him, he will apologise and thank him later, he turned to his father, “can I see him?”

“I am afraid not” Crepus sighed, “you have been through a tough battle against the Jester, you need to rest”

Kaeya could feel the frustration grow within him, but instead focused on calming down, he can argue with his father later, right now, he had some questions, “can you tell me then what happened while I was out? Are the citizens safe”

Diluc glanced at his father who gave him a gentle nod. The redhead seemed unsure about telling Kaeya everything after mere moments of waking up. All he wanted to do was to comfort him and have a nice conversation, enjoy their time together after all those years apart. Kaeya wanted it too, but he knew that after everything that has happened he has all the time in the world now.

“Everyone from the church is safe, and the city is in good hands now. During the battle, Eula and I went to go find you to see if you were okay since the doctor was heading where you were. When we got there, we found the Doctor… dead, except it wasn't actually him, Eula investigated his body and found some open wounds which revealed mechanical parts, it was as if the Doctor was some kind of robot” Diluc seemed unsure as he was recounting the events.

“That's one of his variants” Kaeya sighed in frustration, “Should’ve known that he wouldn't actually come here himself, the man spends more time on his experiments and probably saw Pierros siege as nothing but a waste of time. Do you know if any other Harbinger’s were in the city?”

“The Doctor straight up told me they were all busy working in other nations. Hopefully they haven't taken over any city yet…”

Kaeya shook his head, “I doubt it, I have visited some of the other nations before, their security is strong, even if some of it is questionable. The doctor most likely informed you as a warning.”

Venti hummed in agreement, “the other members of the seven should hand over their Gnosis if things get ugly, they are not exactly precious to us. Not to mention some of us are not exactly fond of the heavenly principles…”

Kaeya decided not to question the archon about the heavenly principles, “What about Pierro, do you know where he went?” asked Kaeya.

“While Eula was investigating the Doctor, I ran into Venti, he said that we should stay back since Ajax used what is known as his “foul legacy””

“He what?!” Kaeya suddenly sat up, a wave of anger washing over him. Ajax promised he wouldn’t use his form to fight Pierro.

“He is okay Kaeya” Diluc was quick to assure him, “he didn’t use it for that long anyway, when he was defeated, Venti and myself rushed in and took care of the Jester, well it was mostly Venti, but we got you and Ajax to safety as quickly as possible. As for what happened to the Jester…”

“I took care of that,” Venti added, “he is a powerful harbinger, but he knew he wasn’t powerful enough to fight me, so I warned both him and his goddess to leave my city alone. I may be the weakest archon but I know the Tsaritsa won't want an all out war with Mondstadt. I have a contract with Rex Lapis that we will assist each other when the time is right and the last thing that she would do is mess with him. So the Jester left, vowing that he will never enter this land again.”

Kaeya sighed with relief, “that's good to here, thank you by the way, Barbatos, you saved my life more than enough times already”

The god smiled, “no need, I am just doing my duty as an archon.”

Kaeya was always taught by his biological father to never trust the archons, and to never see them as your ally, but after everything Barbatos has done for him and his family, Kaeya can't help but wonder if Kheanri’ahns were wrong about archons.

“We are going to let you rest here for a bit” says Crepus, “doctor recommend bed rest for the next week”

Kaeya groaned, a week?

“Don’t worry,” says Diluc, “Jean, myself and Dad plan on visiting you every day so you won't get bored.”

Kaeya nodded gratefully, however that wasn't the only thing he was worried about. He was more concerned about Ajax, and what the Knights would decide to do with him. Kayea already has a rough idea of what his fate will be. Since he was taken by the Fatui against his will the Knights are likely not to charge him for any major criminal offence. Ajax however has been with the Fatui for years and while he hasn't committed any crimes in Mondstadt he was still part of the organisation that nearly overthrew them. 

Kaeya is going to have to sneak out if he wants to see him.

“Okay, thanks” he said, trying to dismiss his family so he can find a way to plan an escape. He does want to spend time with them, it has been four years but he has all the time in the world now, right now he needs to focus on one issue at hand which is his friends fate.

They each said their goodbyes and once they left Kaeya began looking around the room, quietly planning when and how he would leave the winery.

With a dark cloak covering his form, Kaeya snuck out of the winery once it was dark enough. He thought of conjuring a portal to the church but the battle with his uncle drained him, not to mention he would stand out if he starts using bright abyssal magic in the middle of the city, after everything that has happened the last thing he needs is more attention from the Knights and the people of Mondstadt.

Despite being mentally and physically exhausted, the trip to the city wasn’t too difficult, Kaeya was able to sooth one of his old horses, who seemed happy at his return and was willing to allow Kaeya to saddle her up and ride to the city. 

The guards at the gates allowed him past, which to Kaeya’s surprise was easier than expected. He has gained a small amount of fame for his actions during the invasion. And the guards trusted him enough to enter the city despite it being in lockdown. Kaeya is grateful that his history with their enemy didn’t hinder said trust.

He tied his horse up outside the gates, and made his way to the church, he got a few waves and smiles from the people tidying up the city. He waved back but kept his head low, getting a bit shy from all the attention.

He is impressed that many citizens are out after dark, some are celebrating at the tavern while others are busy repairing their own homes so they are secure enough for them to sleep in.

He eventually made it to the stairs at the church and gently knocked on the door, a young nun opened it.

“I take it you are here to visit a patient”

Kaeya nodded, “Yes, a friend of mine,”

“Right this way” the nun opened the door, “just check in with the Knights about who you wish to see”

Great… Kaeya thought. Now here comes the hard part. The knights are most likely checking people in since one of their patients is a former Fatui Harbinger. Kaeya can’t really blame them for taking the extra precaution.

He arrived at the side door and saw two knights standing outside. One holding a clipboard.

“Please state your name sir”

“Kaeya… uh… Ragnivindr?” He hesitates saying the surname, but he is sure that it is still his current legal name.

“Master Ragnivindr’s long lost son eh?” The knight looked along his list, “you don’t have any family members or dawn winery staff listed here… are you here for a friend?”

“Yes his name is Ajax… but you probably know or have him registered as… Tartaglia?”

The knight looked up suddenly, “the Harbinger? I am sorry sir but only family members and the Acting Grand Master can see him for now-“

The knight was interrupted but the door behind him opened and Jean stepped out.

“Acting Grand Master!” The knights stood straighter and saluted.

“Apologies, but I couldn't help but overhear your conversation, It is okay to let him in, Swan,” said Jean, “but I appreciate you following your orders”

The knight nodded, “of course Acting Grand Master.”

Kaeya sighed with relief, and smiled at the woman walking towards him, “thank you, Jean”

She shrugged, “it is the least I can do, after everything you did for this city, the people think of you as a Hero”

Kaeya chuckled, a light pink blush dusted his cheeks, “I wasn’t the only one being a hero that day.”

Jean nodded, “Yes I am aware of your friend's heroic acts, I must tell you while we are questioning him and his intentions now that he has left the Fatui, we won’t be pressing any extreme charges, he and his family will be able to stay within the city. As long as he completes two years of service with the knights”

“That sounds great, thank you Jean” Kaeya felt incredibly relieved and grateful that Jean is the one in charge. He was worried that Ajax would get into trouble being in Mondstadt.

“The people are still wary of him, but I thought that if he joined the knights, people’s perception will change”

“They will” Kaeya assured her, “he may seem a bit… bloodthirsty but he is a good man at heart and deeply cares for the innocent, especially children and his family. I am sure he will make an excellent knight”

Jean's expression was grateful, “that’s exactly what I want to hear. You are free to go see him. I was going to discuss some things with him, but he was still sleeping so I took the time to talk to Barbara instead. She said he may be a bit delirious when he awakes, just a word of warning”

“Of course”  and the two of them parted ways, allowing Kaeya to visit his friend.

Finally entering the room, his eyes immediately fell onto Ajax’s sleeping form. Kaeya watched his chest rise and fall for a moment, assuring himself that he is still alive, and still breathing.

Kaeya approached the side of the cot, and brought a stole nearby so he could sit by his friend's side.

Without thinking, Kaeya ran his palm along his friend's cheek, feeling the soft skin beneath his finger tips. He didn’t notice what he was doing until Ajax stirred in his sleep. Before he could pull his hand away, Ajax quickly grasped it the second his eyes opened, his reflexes are still incredibly fast, even just after waking up from sustaining heavy injuries.

“Kaeya…” he gasped, his voice was rough like sandpaper.

Kaeya squashed him in response, leaning a bit closer, “don’t speak, Ajax, you have been through enough already”

The two of them both held hands, Ajax squeezing a bit tighter as if he is afraid the young man will leave.

“I am not going anywhere,” Kaeya assured him, and then his expression dropped when he remembered what he wanted to discuss, “you broke our promise Ajax…”

Ajax's eyes averted Kaeya’s gaze but hand remained in place, as if he knew he was guilty, and won't bother arguing.

“You shouldn’t have used your Foul Legacy, with that and Pierro’s ability to drain a person’s will with his magic…” Kaeya stopped when he realised, “I am sorry too, I should’ve warned you. I thought you knew but of course you didn’t, you didn’t train with him like me…”

Ajax quickly shook his head, his expression was desperate as he spoke in a quiet voice, ignoring Kaeya’s order not to talk “not your fault, Pierro was going to kill you, I was left with no choice.”

“There was always a choice!” Kaeya whispered-yell, he wanted to get his message across without bothering the other patients. While the curtain did give them some privacy from other gazes, it didn’t block their voices, “you could’ve died if Diluc and Venti were not there to rescue you!”

Ajax huffed a laugh, “so that's how I got here, and yes I could’ve died, but I probably would've died anyway if you didn’t make it, that protective brother of yours would’ve had my head.”

Kaeya grumbled, he really had the audacity to joke around after what happened, although he will admit that he did make a point.

“Did they tell you what happened?” Ajax coughed, “after I passed out?”

Kaeya quietly explained what Diluc had told him, he took his time but didn’t pause so Ajax could interrupt, he wanted the man to rest as much as possible.

Ajax sighed, relieved that he is just out of the city and that his family is now safe.

“You however,” Kaeya’s voice now displaying a hint of anger and frustration, “need to stop being so reckless, why does my life matter so much that you put yours and risk, and I know the reason isn’t because my brother is scary, I know you can take care of him just fine so you better explain yourself!”

Ajax smiled sadly, his gaze was soft. His hand gently brushed the side of Kaeya’s cheek making the man blush, “because you were worth it Kaeya, I couldn’t stand the idea of losing you just when we get the chance to start a new life. You are the reason why I turned against the Fatui, brought my family here and helped take back your city. I had no idea what I would do without you…”

“Ajax…” Kaeya was at a loss for words, the heat of Ajax’s palm causing him to lose focus, he could feel his head inching closer, he couldn’t tell if he was doing it on his own accord or if the other was helping him, or perhaps it was both.

“I want to start this new life with you Kaeya, wherever it will lead, I want it to be by your side…” 

His voice was barely above a whisper, like he is purposefully lowering it so Kaeya has to lean in closer to him, and when he was close enough, Ajax shut his eyes when he was able to grip onto the man's collar and bring his whole body forward, allowing their lips to finally collide.

Kaeya’s eyes were blown wide in surprise, his brain in sudden denial of what was happening, he was kissing Ajax. When he felt Ajax’s lips shift for a second kiss he eventually closed his eyes and relaxed into it, pushing back against him as a way to encourage him to lay back down since Ajax only just woke up.

After a short while the two eventually pulled a part, both panting and their cheeks flushed. Kaeya couldn’t help but smile like an idiot in love when looking at Ajax’s flushed expression.

Ajax giggled, sounding like an excited teenage girl, but to Kaeya it was the most beautiful sound he ever heard.

“I have wanted to do that ever since I first laid eyes upon you. Back when Pierro ordered me to pin you down after you escaped prison.”

It was Kaeya’s turn to laugh, “Really? You barely even knew me then…”

Ajax shrugged, his eyes averting Kaeya’s gaze, looking somewhat embarrassed, whispering “I just thought you were pretty…”

Now it was Kaeya’s turn to look embarrassed, back then when he first met Ajax, he just escaped from a cold prison after being knocked out when fighting Fatui at his own home, he did not look his greatest when they first laid eyes on one another, and Ajax thought he was pretty. 

“Well…um…” Kaeya attempted to break the awkward silence between them, “I think I started liking you a while ago, but I didn’t realise until the morning I had to go to Mondstadt for my first mission appointed by the Tsaritsa. You were sleeping next to me that morning.”

Ajax gasped, “Wait you… like me?”

“Wha- of course I like you, I kissed you back didn’t I?”

Ajax grinned, “Yeah I know I just wanted to hear you admit it.”

Kaeya scoffed and lightly punched his arm, “You better quit embarrassing me like this…”

“Too bad, you are stuck with me now.” his voice sounded smug.

Kaeya smiled and rolled his eyes, “I guess it is worth it”

The two stayed with each other for the rest of the night, Ajax allowing Kaeya into his cot, snuggling in close. Kaeya is most likely going to be discovered missing from the winery and end up in serious trouble so he won't bother returning home just yet. He will stay with his newfound lover instead.

For the first time in days, Kaeya was finally able to sleep peacefully.

Chapter Text

Kaeya knocked on the front door to his old home, the door opened to a bright and smiling redhead.

“Kaeya, it’s good to see you!” Diluc hugged him, “come in, Addie has nearly finished cooking.”

It had become a weekly tradition for them, every week Kaeya would come visit his father and brother for dinner since he no longer lives with them. He now lives comfortably in his own home in the city with his boyfriend, Ajax.

It has been some time since the invasion, three years in fact and Kaeya is happy to see how much his family improved.

Both his brother and father look less tired, the brightness in their eyes has returned and both of them argue less. They have been working hard to improve the winery’s business and Diluc even decided to get into some philanthropy work, starting his own charity donating money and supplies, helping those who have had loved ones killed or property destroyed in the Fatui invasion and the battle to take back the city. It has been hard but the Ragnivindr family couldn’t be in a better place. 

He couldn’t come up with a name so the organisation is generally referred to as “Dawn charity” since it’s owned by the Ragnivindr family. 

Kaeya follows his brother into the dining area where his father, Crepus, was already seated. Patiently waiting for their arrival.

“It’s good to see you again my son” He gestured for him to take his seat. Diluc and Kaeya sat opposite to each other. Their seats where on either side of the father’s who sat at the head.

“How has work been this week?” Crepus asked.

“It’s been pretty good so far, ever since Diluc started up the charity the city has been able to recover quicker than expected. The people also feel more united after everything that has happened, it’s good to see everyone helping out.” Kaeya responded.

“It just goes to so how strong we are” said Diluc, “Pierro might have had the power of the gods but he didn’t have the power of people. The Fatui will learn not to mess with us again.”

“With Varka back and new knights joining the ranks, I highly doubt they will” said Crepus

The conversation went on for a short while, mostly about business, the knights and managing their knew organisation. The convosation tends to be similar each week Kaeya visits but he couldn’t ask for better company on a Sunday knight.

Dinner was eventually served, a simple sticky honey roast. Since the Ragnivindr family is small they don’t have grand meals, otherwise the food will go to waste. They enjoy their small home cooked meals from Adelinde, who is always welcomed to the table but wishes to eat in her own time since she has other work to attend too.

Kaeya barely said a word as he ate, not because he had nothing to say but because he really loves Adelinde’s meals. Ajax does cook some great food but nothing beats a meal from home.

“You have been quite, something on your mind?” his father asked him.

Kaeya stared at him with a mouth full of food, Diluc snorted.

“I think the only thing on his mind is eating” he pretends to whisper to Crepus.

Kaeya rolled his eyes and quickly finished his final bites of his meal.

“Adelindes cooking is just too good” he said with his mouth half full, using his napkin to while any grease.

“It is a shame Ajax couldn’t come tonight, something keeping him busy?” Crepus asked.

Kaeya shook his head, “He said he needed to buy a few things, he didn’t specify what though. I have to admit for the past week he has been acting… wierd”

Crepus and Diluc glanced at each other and their eyes widened as if they immediately knew what was going on. 

“What?” Kaeya frowned at both of them.

Diluc grinned, “you have nothing to worry about my dear brother, I just know he is going to make you very happy”

That’s a weird thing to say. Kaeya side eyed his father who just smiled and stayed silent.

They eventually moved onto other topics and Diluc and Crepus finished eating, as if they don’t want Kaeya dwelling on what Diluc just said.

After the family finished their meal, Kaeya said his goodbyes and headed back to his house into the city. However on the way back his mind just kept going back to what Diluc said. What does Diluc know about Ajax? Should he be concerned? No, if Kaeya needed to worry his brother would warn him if something is up with his boyfriend.

Kaeya decides not to dwell on it. Maybe in time he will find what’s up with Ajax. He always does.

Kaeya and Ajax are now living the greatest years of their lives.

Both of them are members of the knights of Favonious, and have been considered to be the best in the Ordo. Thanks to their training as Harbingers and Kaeya’s abyssal abilities.

Unfortunately for Ajax, his delusion got confiscated due to side effects, Varka kept it locked away and trusted his chief alchemist to do any necessary research on it. Ajax wasn’t too heartbroken by this, he understood that there are some new rules and customs to follow, and even without his delusion he is still incredibly strong.

Kaeya managed to take his brother’s old position as Cavalry Captain. Now that Varka has returned from his expedition he has a lot of duties to attend to.

Thankfully he has Ajax as his right hand man. The two worked perfectly together, many citizens considered them to be the handsomest and bravest knights and despite their history with the Fatui, many have learned to forgive and trust them.

Varka returned from his expedition and has decided to appoint Jean as his deputy, although there wasn’t originally such a role, Varka believes that she is a very capable leader and should continue to work by his side.

While Jean still feels guilty for what happened to the city, Varka assures her that he hasn’t lost faith in her and she was just doing what she believed was best for Mondstadt and that is something that should be looked up too. Varka believes if she can work together with him the two can do an even better job at protecting their city and learn from their past mistakes. Varka will avoid taking so many resources if he were to leave the city again and Jean will need to keep her guard up.

Venti has decided to lay low for a while, many of the citizens are suspicious of him after his actions during the attack and he doesn’t want to draw too much attention, but he will still continue to watch over his city, and make sure the Tsaritsa does not hurt another one of his children again.

Although the Fatui were chased out, they still remain a threat, some are still in other nations hunting Gnosis, apparently the electro archons Gnosis has been acquired and the Balladeer stole it, betraying the Fatui. Ajax is kind of grateful that the grumpy man did that, since it will get the Fatui off Mondstadt’s back for a while and give them something else to do. He hopes that the Balladeer will keep them distracted for a while.

Ajax also managed to get in touch with Pulcinella, since his betrayal he immediately resigned before he could be caught and with all the money he has accumulated he was able to keep his family safe and travel all over Teyvat. Ajax did voice his concern that the Fatui’s presence remains constant, particularly in nations such as Fontaine where Arelecchino raises her child soldiers but of corse the old man is not too concerned about her. Ajax reminded him that he is always welcomed to visit in Mondstadt. Him and Kaeya are grateful for everything that he has done.

Joining the knights is probably the best thing that has happened to Ajax. Although he was somewhat forced to do so by Jean due to him working with Fatui previously, he decided to stay and continue his duties even after his two years of service were up.

He no longer has to hide who he truly is from his family. He can now be their knight, their protector, and tell them all sorts of stories about his adventures with Kaeya.

While he may not get paid as much as he did as a Harbinger, the money he received was enough to pay all living expenses for both himself and his family. Just one year ago, Kaeya decided to buy his own place in the city and have Ajax move in with him. It was difficult for the new Cavalry Captain to pack his things and move on from his childhood home, but he does not regret it for one bit. Kaeya will visit his family and he and Ajax join them for dinner at least once a week.

The pair now rest in their own shared bed at their very own home, it is the weekend which means that they can sleep in for as long as they want. Kaeya at least, uses that to his advantage.

Kaeya is not a morning person, so when the sun rises, Ajax would spend the first hour watching his boyfriend sleep. His peaceful and soft expression, his loose hair splaying along his shoulder pillow, the way his chest would rise at fall was mesmerising. Ajax could stare forever.

Eventually he will quietly shuffle out of bed to get their breakfast ready, (despite the sleepy whines coming from Kaeya, Ajax had to fight the urge to dive back under the sheets and hold him close.) Ajax would prepare some of the tastiest meals for his boyfriend. This morning he makes Kaeya a simple but large breakfast with bacon, eggs, hash browns and toast with smashed avocado. He likes to treat him well on weekends.

Kaeya tiredly stumbled into the kitchen, all he had on was his underwear and a shirt he found on the ground beside their bed… which happened to be Ajax’s.

Said man blushed when he caught a glance of his sleepy boyfriend, rubbing his eyes and stretching.

“I made you some breakfast Kaeya, and I made your coffee too” he said, placing the meal and beverage on the counter in front of him.

Kaeya pulled up one of the stools and sat down, watching his boyfriend work away, he huffed tiredly, but there was a softness to his expression, gratitude, “thank you Ajax, it really means a lot.”

Ajax shrugged, “I picked up a thing or two from my mother. Also from my travels during my time as a Harbinger, you tend to learn a lot.”

Kaeya and Ajax normally avoid topics around the Fatui, but they can’t ignore they’re past. It is thanks to the Fatui that they were able to meet and be together and change each other’s lives. They understood what it means to be loyal, particularly to the ones they love. That blood may be thick but it is not what ties to the bonds of family, it is love.

Ajax loves Kaeya, and he has come to realise that over the time that they have been dating. It has been three years, both discussed marriage on multiple occasions and Ajax even received a “talk” from both Diluc and Crepus even though he never mentioned marriage to anyone else. The other’s probably just knew the two were getting close to it.

So Ajax has brought a ring, it is a small diamond surrounded by tiny sapphires with a silver band. The colour reminds him of his boyfriends beautiful eyes.

He hides it well and tonight he plans on proposing. He is going to make sure he takes Kaeya somewhere quiet, since the man does not like attention and has voiced multiple times how much he hates public proposals due to the social pressure of saying yes and the last thing Ajax wants is to pressure Kaeya into making a decision.

After breakfast the two went out for their usual morning walk around the city, being greeted by many citizens who have grown to love and trust the two of them despite their past. Many are also aware that Kaeya originated from the abyss due to his portal display when he returned the injured citizens of the church to the winery during the invasion of the city. Kaeya is surprised that they took the news of his origins so well. He was for sure worried that many would want him gone but Jean herself made a statement that Kaeya has lived in Mondstadt for most of his life and that the abyss has no influence over him anymore now that he has found his true family and his freedom.

After their walk they would spend most of their afternoon relaxing at home. Ajax doesn’t want Kaeya to be too suspicious of his plans for later in the evening so he tries to keep things as normal as possible.

Kaeya has picked up a few hobbies, he learnt how to knit and crochet thanks to the head maid of the dawn winery inspiring him to do so. So far he has successfully made multiple blankets, and a scarf for his brother which he gave to him on Diluc’s birthday one year after returning home (Diluc wears it all the time in winter) and even some small gloves for Ajax’s siblings and the little girl he sometimes babysits, Klee.

Right now he keeps himself busy with his new project which is to make a matching set of beanies for him and his boyfriend. Ajax is glad he is now starting to make them since he plans to propose later.

It was then 5 in the afternoon, the sun will start to set soon, Ajax takes a deep breath and prepares for what he wants to do next.

“Hey, Kaeya, do you want to go watch the sunset  from Starsnach? The sky is quite clear tonight” he quietly asks, taking his boyfriend's focus off his knitting.

Kaeya’s expression lights up, “sure, got nothing else to do tonight.”

They put on some light jackets and slowly walk out of the city, now enjoying the serenity of Mondstadt’s countryside.

 Ajax quietly slipped his hand into Kaeya’s, the other man gently grabbing onto it, both did it without thinking, it has become second nature for them to lightly touch or hold each other whenever they can, as if they are reminding both themselves and each other that they will stay together no matter what. It is part of the reason Ajax was set on proposing to Kaeya in the first place.

He just knew that after everything there is no way he could leave this man’s side. Yes his family had to leave their life in the small fishing town behind, but now that they have freedom and Ajax has a lover, he feels that it’s worth it, and as a knight he can continue to protect the innocent and his loved ones.

The sun was beginning to set in the horizon as the two made it to the top of Starsnach. They sat towards the edge of the cliff, dangling their legs over the see. Neither of them were concerned about falling since they both kept their gliders with them. They had been quite handy ever since Amber taught them how to use them.

Kaeya leaned on Ajax’s shoulder, “I can’t believe this is my life now, when I was younger I was sure things would fall apart and my past will catch up to me, and then it kind of did. But then, I met you and now I am the happiest I have ever been”

Ajax’s heart fluttered at his cheeks were warm, and it wasn’t because of the sun, “me too. My family can now live a peaceful life and I no longer have to lie to them.”

“Sooo” Kaeya started, voice flirty and confident he snugged in closer, planting a light kiss on Ajax’s neck,“what prompted you to go out with me today? And don’t repeat what you said earlier, I know it’s more then the “sky being clear” hmm?”

Well I guess there is no backing out now.

He adjusted his body to face Kaeya, the other lifting his head back up. Ajax gently clasped onto his hands, his thumb gently rubbing his ring finger.

“Kaeya I cannot thank you enough, you coming into my life was the best thing that has ever happened to me and I do not know where I would be if I stayed with the Fatui. For a long time I was loyal to the Tsaritsa but I was blind to the fact that she was just using me, just like Pierro was. But you Kaeya, you set me free and I want to stay with you forever.”

Ajax pulled out the small black box, Kaeya’s eyes widened as he realised what was happening, “Ajax…”

“Kaeya will you be with me for the rest of my life and marry me?” He asked, voice soft and gentle and filled with love.

Kaeya choked on a sob, a tear slid down his cheek, he struggled to form words so he resorted to nodding vigorously.

“Yes…?” 

“Yes” Kaeya giggled finally getting the word out, “yes Ajax I really want to marry you”

Ajax couldn’t believe it, Kaeya is now his fiancé. He slid the ring on the other man’s finger, Kaeya immediately went in to kiss him once it was on.

The force of Kaeya’s weight when he pounced on Ajax sent him back on the grass. The man was now on top of him kissing him passionately. Both could barely hold back their smiles as they made out under the sunset.

Ajax gently tapped Kaeya three times, wishing to speak, Kaeya pulled away allowing the man to breath 

“We should probably continue when we get back home,” he said, cheeks flushed red, “I sense a presence coming up the hill”

Kaeya huffed in annoyance when he glanced towards the bottom of the hill. Starsnach cliff was unfortunalty a popular spot for couples.

His expression then soften, “that’s fine, what better place to spend my first night with my fiancé then our very own home”

Ajax’ heart swelled at his words.. Home . Fiancé “I wouldn’t have it any other way”