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Chapter Text

"And that concludes our final performance. This has been Lyney and Lynette's magic show, and thank you all for being a spectacular audience!" The magician announced as they both took a final bow after ending one of their magnificent acts with a bang. The crowd roared, getting louder and louder as the rest of the crew joined them on stage. He took a moment to glance at the smiling faces all around the opera house, especially the loud applause from a certain outlander with hair of blonde.

With Paimon gleefully floating next to him, Aether clapped, and looked at Lyney, smiling from ear to ear. The magician gazed at his eyes, glimmering with joy. He's glad that he had slowly rebuilt his bond with him ever since that fateful day when he and his twin sister were discovered as Fatui members. He couldn't bear to see that glare full of hurt and disappointment, so he vowed to lay all of his cards on the table when it came to him. However, there is one exception— his budding romantic feelings for him.

It all started when Aether decided to help him clear Cesar's name as the infamous "Phantom Weasel." During the process, Lyney had become more open to both him and Paimon, revealing all the hidden secrets together, and how the trick— that led the magician twins' teacher to his demise— was executed. But because of those investigations, the magician felt some fleeting feeling inside of him whenever the outlander was around. He even shared fragments of his past to them after his commemorative show for Cesar. It was because he felt open around the traveler— he felt as though he could trust him.

At that very moment, Lyney had realized and never doubted one thing: he had fallen in love with him from the very start. He was glad the traveler and his companion didn't think about what giving Aether the Rainbow Rose meant way too much because once they connected the dots, the worst-case scenario would possibly be Aether avoiding him wherever he was. Thus, breaking the status quo once again.

Countless days went by, and as Lyney got closer to Aether, the more he'd slowly opened up to him. They'd both share their own experiences as brothers, and he even got to learn small crumbs about Lumine. There were other things he had realized about the traveler: He is simply radiant when up close, and he truly does resemble the stars. As the magician steals a glance at him whenever he could, he sometimes wondered, if only he could see himself through Lyney's eyes— if he could see all the reasons why Lyney was lovestruck in every way possible.

But as much as he wants to call the traveler his own, he knew he couldn't for two reasons: Someday, once he's finally reunited with Lumine, he'll have to end his journey in Teyvat and travel to another world, which means he'll leave Fontaine and never come back. Another reason would have to be his fear of rejection. He doesn't want to lose everything he has with Aether once more. He would do anything, and everything, to keep basking in his light, even if it meant bottling up his true emotions just for the sake of their friendship.

Now at the back of the stage, Paimon raced towards Lyney and Lynette, with Aether right behind her. "You guys were amazing!" the pixie dressed in white exclaimed. "That doppelganger trick you guys did at the beginning was soooo cool! At first, Paimon actually thought that it was Lyney on stage, but then, surprise! There were two Lyneys but the first one revealed to be Lynette all along." "Well," started Lyney. "We're twins after all, so pulling this trick off is no challenge for us," he replied. "Though I must admit, I did almost have a tiny slip-up in one of the tricks back there," Lyney states, bashfully scratching his head. Aether remarked, "I didn't really notice it myself, but whatever you did to handle the situation, you've done it professionally, Lyney." "Ah, Aether, you flatter me. It was nothing, really," Lyney responded in kind. He then notices the golden blonde burst out a giggle. It was one of the sweetest smiles he's ever seen, and he loved seeing him smile. He silently prayed, 'O Archons from above, please never let him lose that smile.'

Breaking away from his little world, Paimon's stomach suddenly grumbled. "Well, well, well. Look who's hungry," the magician teased. "Hey! Paimon had dinner before the show," she huffed. "But didn't you say you wanted dessert once the show was over?" Aether joined in the banter, making Paimon grumpily stomp in the air. "Argh, why is it that when it comes to ganging up on Paimon, it's always you two?!" "If dessert is what you're looking for," Lynette butted in. "Then, I know a place. Wanna come with me?" And boy, did Paimon quickly take up on that offer. Who is she to say 'no' to free food anyway? Paimon then happily glides next to her. "What about you, Aether? Care to join us?" The part-feline offered to the traveler. He politely declined the invitation. "Actually, there's something I wanted to tell Lyney alone."

Hearing that made his heart race faster than usual. 'Did I hear that right? He wants to tell me something? Alone? What if he actually likes me and confesses tonight?' Lyney felt his face redden a little, but then ducked and hid his head underneath his hat when his sister gave him a smug look. 'No, snap out of it, Lyney. You've talked alone so many times now. There's no way he'd confess.' Good thing he's quick enough to keep himself together. "It's alright, Lynette. You and Paimon can go on without us. After all, tonight's performance did make me feel full all of a sudden," he said. "But don't eat too much again like last time, alright?" he added, being the strict brother he is. "... Alright, whatever," she replied. "We should be heading out now. Come on, Paimon." And just like that, she and Paimon left the boys to their own devices. "How about a change of scenery?" Aether offered. He nodded in response. "Then, lead the way."

The spot that Aether picked out was just nearby the Fountain of Lucine— a meadow on a small hill where it's enough to have a full view of the fountain and the opera house. "Nice view we got here," the magician remarked as he takes a seat on the field. "I didn't know you had such a keen eye for breathtaking sceneries." Aether sat down right next to him and replied, "I guess you could say that's where 3 years of travelling experience gets you to, haha." His answer left Lyney astonished. "3 years... You've been out in the world for that long?" He asked, just to confirm if he heard that correctly. He nearly couldn't believe Aether traversed through Teyvat for so long, trying to find traces of his sister. "What can I say? There's almost no stopping for me in my journey," Aether sternly replied, a hint of sadness hidden in his voice. Lyney could tell right away that he really misses Lumine, and he would run to the ends of Teyvat just for her. "Which is another reason why I chose this place in particular," Aether added as he looked up to the sky.

When Lyney followed his gaze, he found himself lost in the vast ocean of stars. The traveler began, "I guess you know why I also picked this spot." "Oh, I remember now. You told me back then that you would go stargazing together every night," the magician answered. "Yeah. And now, every time I see the stars at night, I think of her, and I hope that fate will intertwine our paths once more, and we'll finally be together," said Aether as he lays down on the green blades of grass. "What about you? What do you think of when you look at the stars?" The blonde asked, leaving Lyney in complete silence as he thought of his answer. "Probably..." A few options come into mind— the day when he and Lynette found a home in the House of the Hearth, the shining spotlights whenever he's on stage, and as of late... "You," he quietly muttered. It took a second for him to realize what he just said. The traveler asked for clarification about what he whispered. "Huh?" Lyney's answer was more of a whisper under his breath, so he was relieved Aether didn't hear him clearly. "Oh- nothing, it's just... someone special..." Lyney trailed off as he watched the night sky again. He was too mesmerized by the sight to notice Aether averting his soft gaze to him, as though he was also one of his "stars". 'But what if I told you... the stars also remind me of you, lately?' the traveler thought.

After a long pause, the magician shifts the topic of their conversation. "Anyway," he began. "There is something you wanted to tell me here, right?" he asked the blonde boy. "Ah, right. Um..." He slowly sat up, carefully thinking how he should word everything out. If he's being honest with himself, he never wanted to tell him, but he knew that he had to. It'd be rude to depart from a nation without telling a friend, wouldn't it? "Lyney, I..." The traveler began, while the magician expectantly waits for his answer. He heaved a heavy breath, looked at the other in the eyes, and straightforwardly said, "I'm leaving for Natlan tomorrow."

From what he thought would be a confession of love was actually a farewell. It felt like Lyney's world has shattered into hundreds of glass shards as soon as he heard the word "tomorrow". The magician tried to protest. "Tomorrow? Already? But–" "As much as I wanted to stay here for a while longer," Aether cuts off his sentence. "I wish I could, but I... I can't, Lyney." "Oh" was the only response the other could let out. It's the first time he doesn't know what to say. He wants to convince Aether to stay a little longer, but he knew that family's also important to him. All he could do right now is to set his feelings aside and support the other's decision.

"If you really have to leave for Natlan, then go ahead. I wouldn't go against you in any way possible if that's your only means of finding her. Family is important to you, just as it is to me." From the way he sounded, Aether could sense that Lyney also didn't want him to go just yet. "But... why did you tell me just now?" questioned a confused and frowning ash blonde, hugging his legs. "You could've just come knocking on my door days ago, or write to me, even." "The past few days were... hectic," he confessed, though only half the truth. Lyney did have a point, Aether thought. He could've at least spared a few minutes just to pen him a farewell letter and commission the Adventurer's Guild to either hand it to any member of the hearth, or deliver it to their doorstep. However, not only was he unable to find time, but he's also afraid to confront him on how he feels about him on a random day with little to no preparations. Commission upon commission kept piling up in front of him, so his plans for a grandiose of a confession were tucked away to the side. To Aether, a performer like him deserves a confession that's just as magnificent and romantic as his shows. Unfortunately, it's too late to plan everything. He already booked a trip back to Sumeru and the ferry doesn't accept any further delays in the departure. Now could've been the best opportunity, but somehow, a force within holds him back. He also didn't want to lose what they had. He didn't want to mistake his flirtings or his rather different behavior with him as signs of Lyney's romantic intent towards him. But with the magician's expression just now... Does he wanna say something before he leaves? "You could tell me anything you want to say right now, Lyney. You promised there will be no secrets between us this time." The latter stayed silent. How could he tell him everything he wants to say when it would be a risk to do so? In his mind, what he wanted to say was, 'I love you, and I always will. No matter where you are in this world or another, I swear with my life, I'll always be by your side,' But what came out of his mouth instead was, "I hope you'll visit Fontaine again once you have the time."

The magician looks over his shoulder and sees Aether give him a reassuring smile. "Of course, I will visit you guys in the future. I promise," he says, placing his hand on top of Lyney's. This simple gesture made the magician blush a little as he looked away. In return, he subconsciously clasps their hands together, surprising the traveler, but he didn't mind about pulling away. It somehow feels fuzzy for Aether, given that no one's ever held his hand before— not like how Lyney's doing right now. He liked the sensation. He loved it.

Unfortunately, their sweet and quiet moment ended when Lynette arrived at the scene. "So this is where you guys have been," she said, crossing her arms as both boys retracted from each other's grasps and acted like nothing happened. "Lynette! I didn't expect you'd come this far to find us, haha," the magician said as he and Aether stood up. Apparently, his sister didn't buy his little act. 'Hmph, as if I didn't see you two holding hands just a moment ago,' she thought. Not long after, Paimon flew her way to where the group was. "There you are! We've been looking everywhere for you! Paimon was about to get worried," nagged the white fairy. "We knew you'd go somewhere else more secluded, but we didn't think it'd be this far," she added, stomping in the air. "So, I take it that you were discussing something important?" asked the part-feline to her slightly flustered brother. "Umm..." Lyney mumbled, knowing damn well she's definitely gonna have a serious word with him when they get home.

Lyney pulls out his pocket watch and sees it's already 8:00 in the evening. "Ah, would you look at the time!" He suddenly exclaimed. "Lynette and I should be heading home now. Thank you for sharing this wonderful night with me, O traveler from afar," he greeted the latter, his top hat in hand as he bows down. Aether couldn't help it but smile and lightly blush at him. He finds it cute every time he greets him like some distinguished gentleman. "The feeling is mutual, O great magician of Fontaine," the traveler responded in return.

As the twins were en route to their place, Lyney suddenly stopped in his tracks. "Oh, and before I forget," began the magician, facing Aether and Paimon once more. "Aether, would you let us have the honor of accompanying you both to Romaritime Harbor?" He offered. Lynette, who caught on what he's trying to do, played along. "I agree with Lyney. What's a better way to leave than to have everything come in full circle?" She added while giving her brother a smirk. "Ahem, uh, yeah, Lynette has a point. Since we're the first ones you met in this nation, we figured we should be the last ones you'll bid farewell to. What do you say?" He seconded his sister's statement.

"Paimon thinks it's a great idea," replied the white pixie. "What about you, Aether? Not only do we say goodbye to them lastly, but the aquabus ride would be much livelier," Paimon reasons out. The traveler gave it a brief thought and replied, "I think it'd be great to have you around when we leave, so I accept your offer." "Great! So... I'll see you tomorrow morning, then?" Lyney asked. Aether smiled at him once more. "Yeah, I'll see you tomorrow," he replied. They exchanged greetings once more, and went their separate ways.

Chapter Text

Now back at the Hotel Bouffes d'ete, the twins, including Freminet, gathered at the fireplace, with Lyney sitting on a chair by the left side of the couch, his hands clutching his hair. He's so frustrated that he doesn't know what to do— well, he is going to confess, but how should he do it? What should he say? What does he do if Aether rejects him? These questions continuously spiral in his mind, almost driving him insane. His other siblings were lucky enough to not be in love with anyone yet because it gets so maddening, to the point he needed them to give him a reality check— well, that's what he thinks, at least.

Suddenly, a muffled voice called out to him. It sounded like Freminet's. "Lyney? Lyney, Earth to Lyney!" The ash-blonde magician snapped back into reality. His younger brother, squatting on the floor while playing with Pers, looked at him with concern. "Are you alright? You seem very bothered by... whatever your problem is right now," he asked. "Oh, um everything's fine, Freminet, it's just–" "It's just that you couldn't bring yourself to tell the traveler you like him and now you're stressed that he's leaving for Natlan tomorrow?" Lynette interjected, with a cup of tea in her hands. Lyney, however, remained silent. Everything his sister said was exactly true. "Wait, he hasn't confessed to him yet?" "No. Instead, he bought all of his precious time, not knowing he's already fallen short," the part-feline replied, with Lyney letting out a sharp sigh. She then waltzed her way to the chair opposite to the magician's.

"I-I don't know, it's just..." he stuttered. "Just what?" His sister raises an eyebrow at him. "Look, I don't want to watch our friendship crumble down once more. That's the last thing I would wish for me and Aether, Lynette," he answered, suddenly speaking lower than his casual tone. "The moment he found out about our hidden identities was enough. I mean, of course, I wanted to tell him, but... A part of me just holds so much doubt, like what if he wouldn't want to hear from me anymore? What if he'd hate me again?" he added, his voice breaking as a tear runs down his cheek. "But you'll never know if you wouldn't try, Lyney," says the younger sibling, playing with the clockwork penguin once again. "Freminet's right," Lynette agrees, sipping her tea. "Sometimes, you wouldn't notice how your perceptions of certain things are all falsehoods themselves," she added. "What do you mean?" The magician questioned.

His sister sighed and replied, "Lyney, if you'd think Aether would reject you, then why wasn't he bothered by you holding his hand back there?" He flinched at the question. Now that Lyney thought about it, the traveler didn't budge, nor did he feel uneasy, even in the slightest. The action didn't even feel forced at all. It was comforting, warm, as if it were a piece of a jigsaw puzzle— they fit each other perfectly. But alas, who knew that the biggest liars were also capable of lying to themselves? Somehow, this description fits Lyney. "No, no, he couldn't have possibly just held hands with me for the first time," the magician chided, in denial of his true feelings. "Maybe he's held other hands before mine–" "But even if he did, they probably never held his and felt a sense of affection and warmth like you did," Lynette cuts him off. He was going to object, but his sister continued before he did. "Also, why would he even think about going out of his way to help us when we were sparring with "Father"?" "Because he needed to, Lynette," Lyney replied, his voice slightly raised. "No, Lyney," she countered. "It's because he cares for us, but more importantly, you."

That last phrase of Lynette's statement took Lyney aback. "Yeah. I could see it too," Freminet agrees. "I remembered when he told me he was worried about you panicking while looking for us in the Fortress of Meropide," he continued. "He even told me to make sure you get enough rest and look after yourself when we got home." The ash blonde magician could not believe his ears. He knew Aether was concerned about him at that time, but he never knew he was *that* concerned. "See? He genuinely cares about you, Lyney. Don't you know what this means?" Lyney replayed everything they've been through together— From the first time they met, the trial, the 'Phantom Weasel' case, the Rainbow Rose, all the times they hung out, up until their final moments at the meadow. Those shared smiles, those moments when he noticed him stealing a glance, those times Aether cheered him on at every magic show, the challenges they overcame together, the feel of his hand holding Lyney's— all of these have now fallen into place. The answer is now clear as day.

"Aether... does love me." "He always has," Lynette replied. "You were only blinded by your perceptions of the situation," she added. Now full of conviction, Lyney has made up his mind. "Alright. I'm going to tell him tomorrow," he proudly declares, standing from his seat. "I hope everything will be smooth sailing for you tomorrow, Lyney," his brother wishes him nothing but the best. "Thank you, Freminet. I'll need all the luck I can get." Lynette on the other hand, doesn't show it much on her face, but she's proud of her brother finally opening his eyes. "And thank you, Lynette," he says, approaching his sister. "I wouldn't have pieced everything together if it weren't for you." "Hm, don't mention it," she replied. "It's not my fault you're capable of lying, even to yourself," she sarcastically added. "H–Hey!" Lyney pouted at his sister's remark, making the younger of the two giggle at the interaction.

Lyney then switches the topic. "Ahem, but on a serious note, I don't even know what to say to him." "I think you should sit this one out tonight," Freminet suggested. "You're not staying here and help me think this through?" Lyney asked. "No, for two reasons: We don't want "Father" to catch us up late at night again, and you'll concentrate better when you're alone," said the part-feline. "If you say so," the magician replied. "Then, off to bed. Good night to the both of you," he greeted his siblings as they left him alone at the fireplace. Lyney slumps in his chair, letting out a huge sigh. "Where do I even start?" he asks himself, putting his top hat back on as his eyes wander to the moonlight shining through the windowsill. 'Maybe if I stargaze once more, I'll have something to begin with,' he thought.

The magician then sits by the window and opens it, letting the cool breeze of the night enter the room. He looks out at the sparkling heavens once again, mesmerized by the sight. The stars have always been his witnesses from those rough, cold nights when he and his sister were little, the night they were saved by "Father", and now, his longing for the outlander. Lyney replayed every moment he saw Aether's beautiful smile, down to the time they were in the meadow. He remembered how his hair falls down nicely whenever unbraided, and how beautiful he looked with it. To him, Aether is also a star— a bright, gentle, but distant beam of light. These heavens have heard every wish Lyney made unto them, hoping the blonde boy, the hero of every nation, will be only his to love and be loved by. "You'll always shine brighter than the twinkling heavens I see at night," he whispered.

A long, yet peaceful silence filled the room, until... "Lyney?" His eyes shot widely open, the voice sending shivers down his spine. He was too busy getting lost in his thoughts, he didn't notice Arlecchino approaching the room seconds ago. "Ah, "Father!" Good evening," the magician greeted her. "I thought you had gone to bed right now. Why are you still wide awake at this time? This is very much... unlike you, Lyney," Arlecchino says as she enters the room, standing next to him. "Is this why you weren't able to focus on your missions recently?" she asked. "No, "Father". I just couldn't sleep right now–" "Does this have anything to do with the traveler?" The question rendered Lyney speechless. 'But I never told her I was in love with him. How did she know?' Of course, "Father" does know how close he is with Aether, but somehow, she was able to see right through him. Guess he wasn't as secretive as he thinks he is. After all, Arlecchino's the kind of person who doesn't leave a single detail unnoticed.

"...Yes, "Father"." The harbinger only responded with a hum as she walks to the vacant spot by the window next to Lyney. A long and awkward pause takes over. Minutes later, "Father" began, "I was once in your shoes when I was your age." Lyney was stunned. He didn't want to overreact, so he turned to her whilst listening attentively. "She was a friend of mine from childhood, whom I fell in love with as we got older. She never minded my somewhat cold demeanor. All she did was... be there for me." 'Wait, so the person "Father" was once in love with was... a girl? Could it be...?' Lyney had an inkling of who it might be, but he knows he shouldn't jump to conclusions just yet. So, he decided to listen further.

"She'd let come over and play with her dolls, she'd share cake with me whenever she could, and she always tells me how lovely the northern lights looked. She was the only one I had formed a close bond with in the Hearth," she continues, walking over to a drawer and picking up a photo of her as a toddler with a familiar-looking girl with pink hair. "That girl... "Father", is it...?" Lyney asked, looking over where Arlecchino is. "Yes, it is who you think it is," she replied. This revelation left the ash blonde in shock. All his life, he believed no one's ever had the bravery to make her fall in love because of how untouchable she may seem, but just like a miracle, Clervie had won not only her heart, but also a special bond that not even the brink of death could ever break.

"And so, I also cared for her in return by tending to her wounds done by "Mother". I believe I need not to elaborate on the reason why," told the Knave. Just like every other child in the Hearth under Arlecchino's care, Lyney knew all too well why they would never address her as "Mother" like her generation did. Crucabena, the former "King" of the Hearth, the former Knave, and Clervie's biological mother, was a brutal master of their game. She taught them to help each other grow in the Hearth, only to get them bathed in their own blood in the end. Arlecchino became the reigning victor, and it costed her everything— the kind of lives the children had longed to live in the future, including her own future with Clervie. "As much as I am glad to have given you all the life we could have had as children," she continues, making her way to the warm fire. Lyney followed her midway. "I secretly despised how things ended." The harbinger is not one to show sadness and regret, but Lyney could feel it in her voice. He felt how it had hurt her to kill someone she wished to live the rest of her life with.

"And when she heaved her last breath, when she didn't have an ounce of life to hear me anymore, I cradled her in my arms, and whispered those three words that have lost their meaning," Arlecchino sat, watching the warm flames dance in the furnace. Lyney sat himself opposite of her. "You do not need to feel sorry. What's done is done, and losses, after all, are a part of one's life," she added before Lyney could even say a word. "I am honored to hear one of your personal stories, "Father ", but... Why are you telling me this?" He asked out of pure curiosity. It's not that he could ever— or even dare— question her wisdom in things, let alone when it comes to love. "I'm telling you this so that you wouldn't have any regrets later on," she replied. "In other words..." She slowly approaches Lyney and places a hand on his shoulder. "Tell him. Pour out your heart as much as you could." An inexplicable feeling surged through Lyney's body. It's as though he felt surprised, happy, and relieved, all at once. The idea of Arlecchino supporting his relationship with Aether once crossed his mind, but he never thought she actually would.

"However, do not delay this confession any further," she warned. "Remember, you and your siblings will play a big part once we get to Snezhnaya." Right. Project Stuzha, a mission bestowed upon the allies of the esteemed Tsaritsa. Once they get started, there's no certainty as to when he'll return to Fontaine, nor see the traveler once again if he visits. He's more sure than ever of his decision to take the risk. "I won't let this hinder our plans, "Father,"" Lyney affirmed. "Though, my only problem is how exactly I should tell him." "Then, do it as you would in your magic shows," the Knave replied. "There's no use in worrying about it now since it won't sound as sincere. Let your words flow through you."

Now that Lyney thought about it, she's right. Just like how every other magician would, charming your audience is vital in keeping them engrossed in your spectacle. But in this case, Aether is his only "audience" in his "show". The only exception is that he isn't using his charms to just try to win Aether over, but to fully express his love for him, even if they won't be reciprocated. "Thank you, "Father." I will take your word for it," thanked the ash-blonde. Arlecchino responded with a nod. "Off to bed, you go, Lyney." "Good night, "Father"," greeted Lyney before heading to his room.

As he sits on the bedside by his lamp, he puts down his hat on the desk. He noticed a Rainbow Rose placed in front of a framed photo of him and the outlander. With the flower in his hands, he gently caressed its petals like it's the most delicate thing in the world. It served as a reminder that he doesn't know what tomorrow may hold for his friendship with Aether, but one thing is set in stone: he will pour out his long-time yearning for him, no matter what.

Chapter Text

A new day has dawned on the Court of Fontaine, signifying a new beginning, and a ray of hope for Lyney. As he was greeted by the warm light entering the room, the magician was reminded of Aether once again. He once dreamed of seeing the man with his golden, flowing locks of hair, awaiting to greet him "good morning" and plant soft kisses on his forehead. But right now, it wouldn't matter if he couldn't live those dreams yet. Aether *will* leave for Natlan, and he won't stop him in any way possible. Lyney slowly sat up, and stretched. "May this day be a good one," he says, looking over to the framed photo on his lamp desk. Thanks to the conversations he had last night, he felt more hopeful about confessing than he ever was. A few minutes later, he got up, took a shower, got dressed, and went out for breakfast.

Waiting for him at the table was Lynette as she slowly sips her cup of steaming hot tea. Freminet, on the other hand, took a few berries and a Sunsettia to eat as appetizers. "Lyney's taking much longer than usual today," the white blonde spoke. "Should I... go and–" "No need," the part-feline responded. "He'll be coming over in 3, 2..." Lyney barged in as soon as she finished counting down. "A wondrous morning to both of my best siblings in the world," the magician greeted, a big smile plastered on his face. "Good morning, Lyney," Freminet greeted in return. "Took you long enough to prepare yourself," Lynette complained. "Why, I couldn't leave this house unpolished for something special today," Lyney answered as he strides his way to the table.

As the three of them indulged in their meal, they conversed as to what happened last night with "Father". "She advised me on what I should do," said the ash-blonde. "Though, she did share a story with me beforehand." "A story? About what?" The younger one of the twins inquired, eager to listen. "I'd rather not exactly disclose as to 'who', but..." He paused, carefully choosing his words. "... It's about someone who once was like me," he continued, melancholy hinted in his voice. "Someone who was once in love with a special person in their life, but never got the chance to tell them." "What happened to them, Lyney?" asked Lynette. "One of them... ran out of time in this world," the magician replied. "Which is why I couldn't afford to waste my time much longer. We'll be bound for Snezhnaya for Project Stuzha a few days from now, and who knows when we'll return to Fontaine?" "You got a point," Lynette agreed, and so did Freminet. Focusing on the esteemed Tsaritsa's task meant having no other matters in mind. At least today, one of them will be settled, hopefully. "We'll be right there with you, Lyney. Show him how much you truly feel for him," the younger of the twins told the magician. "Thank you, both of you. Your support for me is more than enough," Lyney replied.

As they finished breakfast, the three of them had set out to meet up with Aether and Paimon. "They should be at the entrance of Palais Mermonia by now," said Lyney. "Then, let's head out," replied his sister. The siblings' leisure walk to said location was a lively one, as they talked about their future plans if they ever have the chance to return to Fontaine in the midst of Project Stuzha. For Freminet, he'd go swimming underwater and stay there for a whole day. "I'll explore these waters once again... and maybe find something new and interesting," he told the twins. "But surely, you wouldn't actually spend the whole day swimming, would you?" asked Lyney. "Um, n-not at all, Lyney," replied Freminet. "I'll come to the surface if I want to eat, and I'll also bring food with me so Pers and I could have a picnic together by the shore. You could join me if you want," he added.

As for Lynette, however, her answer is no surprise at all. "I don't know, sleep? Eat dessert for a whole day? Who knows? I'll probably do both at the same time." "But Lynette, we must keep ourselves in shape for our magic shows, remember?" her brother argued. "Just so you know, I have a faster metabolism compared to you. I can easily get rid of my excess fat and sugar in exercise mode," she rebutted. "You know that realistically, it won't be quick," Lyney counterargued again. "At least I won't get to third-wheel any of your dates." Lyney's whole face reddened when he heard his sister's reply. "Hey! I-" the magician wanted to have the last word, but instead, he sighed in defeat. "But even if you were third-wheeling, you'd still get free food either way," said the ash-blonde. "What about you, Lyney?" Freminet asked. "Right, what are you going to do when you come back here?" the part-feline also questioned.

"Hmmm... Probably, I'll do catch-up magic shows," he answered. "Catch-up magic shows? Lyney, they're not even necessary," Lynette argued. "But it's to make up for the days we're not around in Fontaine," replied the magician. "If we do that idea of yours, it would still be pointless," complained his sister. "After all, our audiences would certainly understand why we won't perform in the coming days." "Yeah, and a show is still a show even after you missed a lot of days. Months even," added Freminet. Lyney hummed in agreement, thinking his siblings got a point. It's still a magic show, regardless of the times they're absent from the opera house. He paused, pondering on a better idea. 'What would be a better idea is...' and just like lightning, it had struck him in the nick of time. "Ah! Why don't we have a grand reunion with all the other children of the hearth? There's no better way to welcome ourselves back here, right?" The magician tried to lift the awkwardness atmosphere. The other two looked at each other and shrugged in unison, somewhat agreeing with Lyney's plan. "It's alright, but we wanna know what *you* had planned for yourself," replied Lynette. The ash blonde boy tried to form another idea amidst the stuttering, until the youngest among the trio spoke. "How about... a date with Aether?" Lyney perked up just from the mere mention of his lover-to-be. "Wait... You're right!" The magician gleefully replied. The part-feline woman playfully rolled her eyes and watched her brother go on and on, praising the younger blonde. 'It's ironic how he could come up with the most bizarre magic tricks, yet could not think of a date as an activity. He should be thanking Freminet for his suggestion later on,' she thought.

"Once we'll both make the time," began the lovestruck boy. "We'll do everything I've imagined us doing, like strolling around the Fountain of Lucine as we hold hands, snacking at Café Lutece, of course I'll gift a bouquet of Rainbow Roses during another solo show of mine, and finally, a special fireworks show as we sit on that same meadow and we'll–" Suddenly, Lynette interrupted him in the middle of his delusional daydreaming. "Um, Lyney?" "Huh? What-" Said boy responded with confusion. "There!" both Lynette and Freminet pointed to the direction they were headed. In a split second, he realized the traveler and his travel companion were already waiting for him by the lift.

His heart throbbed uncontrollably, almost unable to suppress his nervousness. 'Remember, you have to tell him now. He won't be around for a long time,' he told himself in his mind. Compared to the days he felt anxious and his plans of confessing had foiled, he is now more brave and certain than ever, that he will succeed in this endeavor. With confidence filling every vein in his body, he approaches Aether with the brightest smile he could wear. Paimon noticed the trio, and greeted them, with the golden blonde man following where Paimon's looking. "Hey, Lyney!" The outlander greeted him with a mirthful wave. Looking at him who's radiating with so much sunshine would make Lyney melt faster than ice cream left under the sun for a few minutes. "Hello, you two," he replied. "I apologize for the tardiness. I hope we didn't keep you waiting too long."

"Ah, not all! Besides, we only got here 5 minutes earlier than you guys," Paimon responded in kind, with Aether nodding in agreement. "Actually, she was about to head back to grab a box of Fontinalia Mousse for herself, but since she saw you coming..." Aether told the trio, making the white fairy almost lose her temper again. "Gah– You– Ugh, Paimon was going to share it on the trip with you! She's not that greedy!" She huffed, crossing her arms. Aether giggled at the frustrated pixie and replied, "I knew you were gonna share with me, Paimon. I'm just messing around here and there, hehe." "...Alright, Paimon forgives you," she sighed. "But anyway, we should get going, Aether," the fairy suggested. "Paimon's right," agreed Lyney. "You wouldn't wanna miss the aquabus ride to Romaritime Harbor now, would you?"

"Um..." the outlander paused for a minute. A few days prior the trip, he was sure about leaving Fontaine, but for some reason, he felt hesitant to do so now. It's like there's something that tied him to stay a while longer— a feeling, to be more precise. Was it that he loved the place, or that he loved a person who lived in said place that made it feel like home? Was it the one who once hurt him and trusted everything unto him because he saw him as a confidant? The one who swore his life to never hide secrets when it came to him? The one who never fails to charm him in ways he couldn't comprehend? All these questions led to one standalone answer— it was all because of Lyney.

He was one of the people who openly welcomed him in the nation of justice. He once deceived him but promised to never repeat the same mistake. He trusted his family, his secrets, and his life to him. He never ceased to amaze him with every magic trick. Because of Lyney, he has never felt attached to another nation other than Mondstadt. And because of him, he has never loved anyone else than he does towards him now. Aether knew he wasn't supposed get attached. One day, he'll eventually leave all this behind, especially the one he had fallen in love with, and it'll cut deep like a dagger stabbed unto his heart. But, he knew he had to leave. The stars had already set him on to his next journey, and Lumine awaits for him to understand why she viewed the world the way she did after her adventures. With his mind finally made up, he firmly replied, "Alright. Let's go to Romaritime Harbor."

All five of them entered the lift, going down to the second floor of the aquabus station, which is the Clementine Line that leads to the harbor. They boarded the aquabus one by one, and immediately set sailed. On the right side were Paimon, Lynette, and Freminet. On the other side sat Lyney and Aether. "This is Aeval currently speaking, and I am here to remind you that this boat ride is bound for Romaritime Harbor. Please keep yourselves within the boat at all times," the tour guide Melusine spoke to the 5 passengers. "So," began Lynette. "How was your stay here in Fontaine overall?" "It was AMAZING!" exclaimed the fairy dressed in white. "A lot of things happened here and there, like the mysterious disappearances cases being connected to the Prophecy, the Fontinalia Film Festival, Fontaine Fashion Week, oh, there's so much more that Paimon enjoyed here, and–"

The traveler chuckled as he watches Paimon yap about her experience. "Hehe, looks like Paimon's had the time of her life here, huh?" asked Lyney. "Well, you bet she did," the latter replied. "I could really tell she enjoyed this place so far. I wish we'll get the chance to come back here." "Yeah... Me too," agreed the magician as he shifts his position towards the view. From the sudden change of Lyney's casual tone to a sad one, Aether figured there is something wrong. "Lyney, are you sure you're okay? If you really don't wanna share it with me, then I wouldn't force you," he assured the ash-blonde man next to him. "Oh, I'm fine, it's just..." He stopped, trying to carefully choose his words, while the outlander expectantly awaits his answer. "...I'll miss having you around for our shows, or even just to casually hang out together like friends do," said Lyney. The last three words he let out was a punch in the gut. Deep inside, he wanted more than just what they are. They weren't just friends in his fantasies— they were lovers. Hopefully, these daydreams will come true, won't they?

"Lyney..." Aether reached out for one of the magician's hands and held it in his. "I'll miss those moments too. You're the one who made them special to me." "I'm more than glad to hear that you loved it here despite everything that's happened, " the magician replied. "And probably for Paimon, she's gonna miss the food here more," both of them giggled at the blonde's reply. "But seriously, I... I wanted to thank you for making our adventures in Fontaine a memorable one. You made these memories worth keeping, Lyney." The ash blonde couldn't help but just softly smile at the latter's remark. What they are as of the moment didn't matter, but as long as Aether's happy, then so is the magician.

Right before they know it, they're almost arriving their final destination. "We're close to docking at the aquabus station of Romaritime Harbor," signalled Aeval. "Please don't forget to bring any personal items as you depart from the boat." Slowly, all of them got off the bus safely. "I hope no one has forgotten any of their stuff," said Lyney, fixing his top hat. "Not a single souvenir left behind!" Paimon proudly declared. "We hope you enjoyed your stay in Fontaine, esteemed guests from afar. May you become successful in your future endeavors as you venture the nation of Pyro!" greeted the Melusine once again. "Thank you too, Aeval. We couldn't ask for a better tour guide in Fontaine. Take care!" the pixie replied on the traveler's behalf.

Not long after, they entered the lift, descending to the main floor of the harbor. Walking the corridors of where they first met gave Lyney goosebumps. 'To think that this was where it all began... Who could've thought I've fallen in love with a traveler from far away?' Alas, right in front of them, is the boat bound for Bayda Harbor in Sumeru. In order for them to reach Natlan, they must make their way to Caravan Ribat, and trek the unforgiving desert dunes with a Sumpterbeast in tow. "So... I guess this is goodbye," began the ash blonde. "Don't worry, Lyney. It won't be for long. We'll be back here before you know it," the traveler reassured him. "Be careful on your way there," greeted Freminet. "And if you feel like you missed the waters here, feel free to come back anytime," added Lynette.

Noticing her brother not uttering a word, she offered a little nudge on his side, signalling him to say something. "Ah!- Ahem, take care of yourselves along the way. The trip to Natlan will be rough," told the ash blonde magician. "Thanks, everyone. We'll be heading off now. Until we meet again!" greeted Aether, waving everyone goodbye as he approaches the boat. "Bye, Lyney! Bye, Lynette! Bye, Freminet!" exclaimed Paimon as she waved farewell to the three siblings. As he watches the traveler and his companion approach the boat, everything around him started to distort, as if time had slowed down just for him. All he was told from the previous night started playing inside his head. 'But you'll never know if you wouldn't try, Lyney,' Freminet's voice echoed. Next was Lynette. 'Sometimes, you wouldn't notice how your perceptions of certain things are all falsehoods themselves.' Lastly, was Arlecchino saying, 'Tell him. Pour out your heart as much as you could.' All of these were enough for him to build the courage to finally tell him. "Brother, what are you doing?" His sister's muffled voice was heard in the midst of his thoughts. 'Alright, Lyney. It's now, or never.' Lyney clenched his fist, took a deep breath, and quickly caught up with the traveler, shouting:

"Aether, wait!"

The blonde outlander was caught by surprise. He then turned around to see a breathless Lyney gripping his wrist tightly. "Lyney?" Aether asked, confused by the sudden action. 'Alright. You can do this,' the magician thought to himself. Taking a deep breath to compose himself, he began his confession. "Before you leave, let me confess one– no, two things: First, I deeply apologize for not telling you the truth after all this time." "But... Wait, Lyney, what are you saying? What is the meaning of this?" Aether inquired the magician, sounding more confused with a hint of shock in his voice. "I'm telling you that I lied about how I truly feel! All those times you asked if I'm alright? It was all a facade because truth be told, there is one thing that constantly kept my mind running, almost driving me insane," Lyney continued, slowly shifting his hand from the latter's wrist to holding his hand. "Aether, I like you."

At that intense moment, the golden blonde traveler was rendered speechless. 'He... actually likes me? So his attempts in flirting with me, and the rose... He meant it all along,' Aether concluded. 'But out of everyone in Fontaine, why would it be me?' Lyney's next words happened to answer the question in mind. "I like you not because of your heroic accomplishments, or your remarkable reputation. I like you for only you. Not the Honorary Knight of Mondstadt, the Hero of Liyue, or any of those titles you hold. To me, you're just... Aether." The magician reached out for the traveler's other hand and took it in his. "The one who has lent a hand when I needed it most, who's witnessed different sides of me, who adored all of my shows, and genuinely cared for me in every way possible."

Right before Aether realized, Lyney had closed the space between them— a few inches away from his face, and tucked a stray lock of hair behind the traveler's ear. "You've enchanted me in an infinite amount of ways, Aether. Your eyes gleam like Prithiva Topaz found in the deepest caverns of the Liyue Chasm. Your hair, flowy as the sunrays greeting me "good morning" every single day. Your smile, enough to put a million stars to shame," he continued, taking the latter's hand back in to his. "Heh, maybe because... You ARE a star, yourself. You'll always shine brighter than the twinkling heavens I see at night. This, of course, is no mere lie, mon étoile. I'm not saying this as a magician, a fatuus, or the charismatic Lyney you see everyday, but only as the plain and honest Lyney. So will you, Aether, accept my undying love for you, and love me for everything I am?"

The golden blonde's mouth was left agape. This sudden confession from the magician made him feel a mix of emotions in which he was unable to form a coherent thought. Words aren't enough to show that he loved him just as much. "Lyney, I..." Aether caught the latter off guard by pulling his hands away from him. The ash blonde felt anxiety and fear running through his veins. 'Oh, archons. Did I read everything wrong? What have I done? Oh, I knew this wouldn't end well,' Lyney panicked inside. Is it time for him to accept the truth that'll leave a permanent scar in his heart? Is he ready to cut ties with the traveler even if he doesn't want to? Calming himself down, he sighed and kept his hands to himself. "It's alright if you don't feel the same. Let alone would you stay friends with–"

All of a sudden, he felt himself getting pulled over by Aether, with one hand on his waist, and the other tilting his head by the chin. The outlander then leaned in to Lyney's lips and kissed him. Caught by surprise, the magician thought he'd be rejected at this very moment, given Aether's initial reaction to his unexpected confession. Everything turned out the way he wanted— the man he longed for is now his, and so is he to Aether. Lyney returned the gesture, relishing the shared moment they have with each other. Long had he imagined the feel of the traveler's lips on his— they were as soft as the petals of a delicate Rainbow Rose, and he loved it. He felt overwhelmed by a ton of emotions— happiness being the strongest one of all.

When they broke away, the golden blonde among the two bursted into a light-hearted kind of laughter. "Actually, I... I like you too, Lyney." The ash blonde boy's heart raced again, but this time, because of immense joy from this revelation. "I've liked you around the time you gave me... that flower. At first, I never paid much attention to it, but the more I looked back at that moment, and the times we're together, I realized... I was starting to fall in love with not only one, but each and every part of you. Your flaws, your charms, your kindness, everything that makes you who you are today," Aether confessed as he raising one of Lyney's hands and kissed his palm.

"I was supposed to tell you last night, but I backed out of the plan last minute because I was scared of what you'd think if I have feelings for you," he added. "And here, I thought I was the only one afraid of what the other might think," Lyney joked lightheartedly, making both of them laugh. "But really, when you also asked me what the stars reminded me of, my answer was only Lumine, but there was another one that makes a perfect fit— it's you, Lyney. You burn brighter than any flame that had ever ignited in Teyvat. In your terms, that makes you... my own "star"." Overjoyed than ever by the traveler's words, Lyney lunged himself forward to hug Aether. "I'm more than happy to hear that, especially from you, mon étoile," he thanked the golden blonde. "So am I, Lyney," said the outlander as he hugged back.

They looked and embraced each other with love, as though time had slowed down and frozed just for the two of them. Everything that's happening around them didn't matter at all. Being close to the other was all that counts. That is, until... "Hey!" the couple turned to the source of the voice. "The boat's about to sail. Are you leaving or what? This trip can't wait forever!" the sailor called out. It's time for his sweetheart to go, and Lyney had already came to terms with it. "Go on. I hope you'll find more traces of your sister there," he told the other.

"Thank you, but..." Aether's expression changed. "What's the matter?" the magician asked, listening to the other's concern. "Once I get back here, you'll be in Snezhnaya and..." "Aether," said Lyney as he reached out to cup one of his cheeks. "You don't have to worry about any of it. If each of us have finished our missions and the rest can be handled by the others, "Father" might let us return to Fontaine. Who knows? Maybe we'd run in to each other again," the magician reassured the traveler, happy to have cheered him up a little. "Alright. I'll make up for the time we're far apart. I promise," the outlander vowed, his hands surrounding the magician's slim waist. "I know you would," the other replied, smiling as both of them kissed again.

Floating towards the other two siblings, Paimon's eyes were full of tears. "What happened to you, Paimon?" Lynette asked. "They're s-so cute together. Paimon couldn't stop shedding tears," she said in between her sniffles. "Yeah... I think they look great together too," agreed Freminet. "I am most definitely happy for them and all, but... Kissing for the second time is a little overboard for me," complained the part-feline monotonously. "At least they got to tell the other how they feel," said the younger sibling bashfully. The white pixie agreed with him. "Paimon couldn't believe they've waited this long, but here we are," she added.

When they pulled away, Lyney's eyes glimmered looking at his muse. "Pink really does look good on you, doesn't it?" said the magician, caressing something like a flower in Aether's hair. "Huh?" the outlander retracted his right hand and tried to feel the object Lyney was looking at, and felt a bundle of soft petals. "Is this...?" Aether asked, surprised by the Rainbow Rose tucked behind his ear. "But... how did you–" "Now, now, you sweet summer child~" hushed the ash-blonde. "Let me remind you that secrets such as magic tricks are not meant to be shared, even if you're now my significant other," he added. "Haha, alright, whatever pleases you, Lyney," the traveler replied, hugging him for a final time. "I'll write to you when I get there," said Aether as he slowly lets go of his lover. "And I'll expect a letter from the Adventurer's Guild in a few days, then. Take care, Aether," Lyney greeted the latter. "I will," replied the golden blonde, kissing the back of the ash blonde's hand as they finally let go.

As the traveler and Paimon got on to the ship, it departed immediately, bound for the harbor in Sumeru. They both looked back at their old companions and happily waved at them. "Goodbye, everyone! We'll be back soon!" yelled the white fairy, while Aether's gaze was fixated on Lyney, whom he now has a new and profound relationship with. Now on the way to Natlan, the traveler had progressed through his journey thus far, but still no proper answers to his questions about his sister. He still has a long way to go, but it didn't matter. What mattered to Aether was at least, he now has a home to return to— not just any place in Teyvat or his teapot, but a person he would spend a lifetime with.