Tales of frost and foliage

by Luithe77th

Summary:

Navia gave Collei another gorgeously gorgeous smile. “So Collei, are you excited to finally meet your boyfriend?”

Red cheeks, right away.

“Navia, do you really have to tease her ten seconds after meeting her?” Clorinde sighed.

Collei and Freminet are in a healthy long-distance relationship. One day, Collei and her friends from Sumeru decide to visit Fontaine on vacation. Cuteness ensues.

Notes:

This fic is canon to Your local unhinged Sumeru-Fontaine group chat, and will go through Collei and Freminet’s in-person experiences together (so basically the Fontaine vacation, and *maybe* the summer vacation <3)

BUT, it’s okay if you haven’t read the chatfic. I won’t mention the actual texting stuff that much, because I also want this to be able to stand as its very own story :)

Chapter 1: Bienvenue, Sumeru crewmeru!

❀❀❀

 

“Welcome to the Clementine Line aquabus! This boat tour will take you to the magnificent Court of Fontaine, the most important city in our nation! Speaking of Fontaine . . .”

At some point, Collei stopped hearing the little Melusine.

Her lively words were lost on the Trainee Forest Ranger’s ears, for the surrounding scenery left her head devoid of thought. While the rest of her Sumerian companions listened intently to the Melusine, Collei’s eyes wandered aimlessly in every direction.

There was nothing she could do to prepare for the glory of the Nation of Justice. No matter how much the Traveler and Paimon talked about it, their vivid descriptions could never hope to replicate the feeling of this experience. This place was unlike anything her eyes had beheld before. Sure, she’d been all over Sumeru and seen all its wildest, most exotic environments. But Fontaine? Fontaine may as well have been a whole different world.

Below and all around the aquabus was a vast expanse of nature’s finest. The cloudless skies were an opalescent dome painted amber and amethyst by the setting sun. The sapphire oceans glistened and glimmered in the twilight, but they also glowed with rich hidden hues like there was plenty of light below the surface. Watching the calming tides and distant wildlife only enhanced the atmosphere. And wherever Collei looked, her gaze was met with soaring peaks, lush forests, and spacious rolling plains. The altitude of the aquabus gave her a wonderful view.

After a few minutes, as the aquabus approached Poisson Tunnel, the main city came into view. Collei’s jaw fell off her face when she saw those towering structures. Arches, walls, buildings and towers, every single thing flaunted their excellence. They stood so boldly, so silver and blue and pure. Collei didn’t know if she was looking at a city, a factory, or some sci-fi megalopolis. On top of that, the light of dusk gave each structure a unique, exquisite glow. It created a sense of dreamlike fantasy that wasn’t left behind, like one of those lovely fairy tale worlds.

What’s more, Collei actually thought she’d seen it all when she saw the walls of waterfalls from below. She spent the entire boat ride from Bayda Harbour getting ready to witness the Nation of Justice, but to no avail.

Silly Collei, she told herself.

“. . . So, it looks like all of you come from Sumeru?” the Melusine tour guide asked.

Collei finally broke out of her spell. She looked back at all the people with her on this bus: Tighnari, Cyno, Kaveh, Alhaitham, Dehya, Candace, Nilou, and Dori. Including her, there were nine people on this aquabus.

Oh, and Tighnari’s machine helper Karkata. It was here because Faruzan’s own machine Tamimi was out of commission—everyone graciously offered to take Tamimi to Fontaine for repairs, and Karkata would serve as a reference for the Fontainian engineers. Also, Karkata was a big help with the suitcases.

Ayway, the abundance of people must’ve been why this Melusine looked so happy. Even for someone Collei had never seen before.

“You’re correct, Miss Aeval,” Tighnari replied, gesturing at the crew. “All nine of us are Sumerians on vacation.”

“I could tell! We Melusines see things differently from humans, and there are many hidden traits outsiders have that Fontainians don’t.” Aeval paused with a hand on her chin. “Ah right, I guess humans can tell each other apart as well . . .”

Small Aeval reminded Collei of Cuilein-Anbar.

Can I hug you? she wanted to ask. Luckily, she kept her mouth shut.

“Clothing is a big giveaway,” Alhaitham said. From his body language, he might’ve looked uninterested in the wonders of Fontaine, but his eyes said otherwise.

Kaveh had that same look in his eyes but more obvious. He was drawn to the architecture of Fontaine’s main city like a magnet. He and Alhaitham only joined the vacation to study, and it seemed like they would enjoy it.

Thing is, they already had an argument during the earlier boat ride. So as long as they were in the same place, no one let their guard down.

Cyno was quiet. Definitely thinking of a joke.

Dehya pointed at something in the sky. “Whoa. The heck is that?”

“That’s one of the Miraculous Antoine Roger Aircraft!” Aeval replied delightfully. “These miniature airships are another great way to sightsee.”

“Looks like a flying fish,” Candace mentioned. “Fitting.” 

“I better get my hands on one of those,” Dori muttered to herself. Collei had a feeling she’d say that a lot during this trip.

“Hey Collei.”

She spun in her seat, snapping out of another trance. “Yeah, Nilou?”

The dancer looked around with a softness in her aquamarine irises. “It’s beautiful, isn’t it?”

“Yeah . . .”

Aeval, overhearing this, perked up. “If you two wanna see beautiful, just wait until you meet the rest of our people!”

 

❀❀❀

 

A new method of long-distance communication was developed recently. It was far more efficient than the traditional way of writing letters, and it was the reason this vacation could happen in the first place. As someone who still struggled with reading and writing, Collei had her ups and downs with it. But she didn’t complain.

She started talking with someone special, after all. Someone who made her heart flutter even from nations away.

In general, the Sumerians had been talking with some Fontainians for a while now. Many new friendships blossomed over a short time period. Now, most of them finally decided to get together in person. The Fontinalia Film Festival was right around the corner too, so it was perfect timing. They planned out the vacation to Fontaine, and there were many things to do. Of course, the first step was meeting them in person for the first time.

When the group of nine hopped off the Aquabus with their suitcases, they were surprised with a warm welcome.

“So we finally stand together, face to face,” Tighnari remarked with a wave. “It’s a pleasure.”

Six ladies with stunning outfits were here to greet the Sumerians, and they look equally as excited. One of them, a lady in blue and white, swiftly stepped forward and cleared her throat. 

“I, Furina, hereby welcome you to the Nation of Hydro!” she declared with a powerful voice.

The former Hydro Archon . . . immediately feeling nervous and self-conscious, Collei stuck close to Cyno and Tighnari. Even though everyone communicated regularly, meeting them in person for the first time was a high hurdle. 

“I’m honoured to finally meet you in person, Lady Furina,” Cyno greeted with a nod. “We all are.”

“The honour is all mine, esteemed guests from the Nation of Wisdom!” Furina replied with a hand on her chest. Then, she gestured to the rest of the present Fontainians. “While we know each other, I believe you’re not yet familiar with our appearances?”

One of them stepped up, a tall blonde woman in black and gold. She removed her sunglasses and closed her umbrella. “Hello! I’m Navia!”

Then came another tall woman dressed in indigo. She looked like her outfit was a little tight. “I am Clorinde.”

A sharp-looking woman with a long musket waved sharply. “Chevreuse here.”

A woman with Inazuman clothes nodded. “Chiori.”

Lastly, the most enthusiastic young lady of the bunch made herself known at the front of the group. “I’m Charlotte. Supertastic to finally meet you guys!”

After that, all the Sumerians introduced themselves in turn.

“It’s nice to finally to put a face to each name,” Candace commented. She pointed at herself and said, “Candace.”

“Dehya,” said, well, Dehya. “And might I add that your outfits are absolutely stunning? Seriously, Fontaine knows fashion.”

Navia curtsied while holding her dress. “Aw, thank you very much!”

“Indeed they are. Must be expensive,” Dori mentioned. “Anyway, I am the renowned Lord Sangemah Bay. But of course, since we all know each other, you may call me Dori in person.”

“Hi, Dori,” Charlotte beamed. “You ready to talk business?”

“Oh yeah.”

“I still don’t know how those two ever became friends. They’re not even that similar,” Kaveh muttered to the people next to him. “Hopefully Charlotte keeps Dori in check.”

“I am Tighnari,” said Tighnari. He then gestured to the young man standing beside him. “This is Cyno.”

Cyno looked offended. “I can introduce myself just fine, you know.”

“But the less you speak, the better.”

The Fontainian ladies seemed to pay close attention to the General Mahamatra’s appearance, especially his jackal headpiece. Collei sensed a brief feeling of intimidation, or maybe that was just her.

Cyno ignored Tighnari and waved. “Greetings. I’m here to establish the new Nation of Justice: Puntaine.”

Kaveh groaned.

“This is exactly what I’m talking about,” Tighnari sighed. His ears twitched in irritation.

But Furina and Charlotte laughed. Genuinely.

And Chevreuse gave a nod of approval. “You know, the jokes do sound better in person.”

Cyno looked pleased by this. “Ever since we set foot in Romaritime Harbour, I just knew we were gonna have a Ro-merry-time here.”

Kaveh, Tighnari, and Collei exchanged looks of disdain. Furina and Charlotte laughed even harder, to the point of collapsing into each other.

“You see, the joke is—”

“Anyway,” Chiori interrupted, “the rest of you?”

“O-oh,” Nilou stammered, suddenly doing a quick bow. “I’m Nilou. It’s a pleasure!”

“The Sumerian star I’ve heard so much about,” Furina replied, eyeing her up and down. “A pleasure indeed.”

Kaveh and Alhaitham tried to introduce themselves at the same time, which almost derailed the entire meeting.

After, Tighnari put a hand on Collei’s shoulder. She flinched and almost cleared her throat of all the air inside.

“I’m Collei and it’s a measure to pleet you!”

NO!

“Pleasure to meet you too, Collei,” Navia answered with a gorgeous smile. Navia was gorgeous.

Tighnari then stepped aside to reveal Karkata, who looked about as excited as a ruin machine could. “Also, this is—”

“You must be Karkata!” Furina exclaimed, crouching to be on eye level with the machine. “Well aren’t you just the cutest little thing?”

Any non-Fontainian would be surprised that this was the former Archon.

Navia gave Collei another gorgeously gorgeous smile. “So Collei, are you excited to finally meet your boyfriend?”

Red cheeks, right away.

“Navia, do you really have to tease her ten seconds after meeting her?” Clorinde sighed.

“Come on, Clorinde! I’m just asking.”

Collei noted both of their hats. Navia’s hat was big and dark, almost like the umbrella she carried. Clorinde’s hat was smaller yet sharper, and it carried this aura of dignity. She heard much about the crazy hats in Fontaine, and clearly it was all true. Furina, Charlotte, and Chevreuse were no exception. It was kind of baffling to see in person.

Unexpectedly, Dori nudged Collei playfully. “Don’t be so nervous. Haven’t you already communicated with the Knave? If you’re already on her good side, you have nothing to worry about when you talk to them for real!”

Collei didn’t know if that helped or made things worse. “I, uh—”

“Just remember what I told you,” Tighnari said. “We all know each other already. More than anything, Freminet will be very happy to meet you at last.”

And so would Collei. Yet the uncomfortable fluttering in her stomach didn’t leave. There was so much that could go wrong—maybe Freminet wouldn’t like her, or maybe her siblings or their Father . . .

But she liked him! She really liked Freminet, and she learned to do so in spite of his controversial background. Hell, that was the entire reason she looked forward to this vacation—to spend time with her long-distance boyfriend. So Collei promised herself to do her best and make sure everything goes smoothly.

Suddenly, Charlotte called for everyone’s attention. As they turned to face her, she held up her trusty Kamera.

“Monsieur Verite and I think it’s a good idea to take a group photo,” she declared. “How about it?”

“Our first group photo, I’m down for that,” Dehya replied.

Everybody got into position. Cyno and Chevreuse made the interesting decision to switch weapons, so the Special Patrol Captain was the one with the polearm, and the General Mahamatra held the musket. Meanwhile, Dori occupied the whole foreground by lying on her little purple Jinni. As for Furina, she prepared to toss her hat high into the air.

Collei stood between Cyno and Tighnari, trying to recollect her thoughts. Thankfully, she mustered up a decent smile as Charlotte pointed Monsieur Verite at the group.

“Everyone say Instachat!”

 

❆❆❆

 

“So Freminet, are you excited to finally meet your girlfriend?” Lyney teased.

Freminet’s ears burned. Why did he have to go and say that?

“Of course he is,” Lynette said. “Look how giddy and restless he is.”

Deadpan as Lynette was, clearly even she wanted to tease Freminet. Those eyes may have been dead inside, but that dancing tail didn’t lie.

What a joy it was to have siblings.

Then, the warmth—and chill—of a familiar hand landed on Freminet’s shoulder.

“Just remember what I told you,” Arlecchino softly reminded him. “We all know each other already. More than anything, Collei will be very happy to meet you at last.”

“Yes, Father.”

Her X-shaped pupils rose to the darkening skies. “It is convenient that she already knows who we are. Otherwise, I feel there would be enough drama to throw a wrench in the vacation plans.”

Freminet agreed. “I’m still surprised she accepted me when I told her back then. Granted, it took a few days for her to process it, but still . . .”

Lyney rested his arm on Freminet’s other shoulder. “Dear brother, that’s a sign that she’s a keeper,” the magician hummed.

All things considered, Freminet hoped so as well.

His siblings were right, after all—he was excited. Collei was such a kind person, and his connection with her transcended everything. Communicating with her was the time of his life, every time. Until now, he prayed endlessly for the day they could finally meet in person.

“They should be here any minute now,” Arlecchino mentioned.

The family of four stood outside the Hotel Bouffes d’ete, waiting patiently for the vacation group to arrive. To quell his racing heart, Freminet held Pers closer to his chest. It didn’t really help.

But of course, amidst his excitement, there were unavoidable feelings he didn’t like.

“What if she doesn’t like me in person?” Freminet muttered. “What if I screw everything up, or what if she thinks I’m weird . . . ?”

Lynette smacked him in the back with her tail.

“We’re with you every step of the way, okay?” Lyney reassured him. “Deep breaths, Freminet.”

That was when Arlecchino pointed at something in the distance. “Here they are.”

Freminet did his best to regain composure. Sure enough, a group of fifteen people in all shapes and sizes appeared in the distance. The familiar Fontainians and unfamiliar Sumerians, including their suitcases. Lyney and Lynette waved their top hats at the approaching group, who waved in return. As they walked, their commotion grew louder, and Freminet picked up some of the dialogue.

Kaveh . . . paying attention . . . bumped into a child . . . silly . . .

What a way to calm some nerves.

Before Freminet knew it, the vacation group was here at last. It was quite possibly the most diverse cast of characters he’d ever seen in his life. Lyney stepped forward and did that bow he did at the end of his magic shows. Lynette as well.

“Bonjour, mes amis,” Lyney greeted, flipping his hat back onto his head. “Welcome to the Court of Fontaine!”

Everyone began speaking, and there came a mix of familiar and unfamiliar noises. Freminet couldn’t distinguish any of it—all his attention fell on one person in particular.

Between the man with the foxlike ears and the man with the jackal headpiece, there stood a girl. The girl, and he knew it. With rich green hair, fair skin, and violet eyes that met Freminet’s grey-blue ones. That was the moment Teyvat slowed to a stop. The moment frost fell upon the foliage in the rainforest, like drifting leaves descend upon the surface of the ocean.

Collei approached Freminet first, stopping a few feet away. When he looked closer at her face, it felt like looking into a mirror. By her ever-shifting expression and movement of her eyes, she seemed just as petrified as he was. But beyond that, he saw in her a kindred spirit. Someone who, maybe, just maybe, really was meant for him. It was honestly impressive how far his thoughts drifted just by gazing into those eyes.

In any case, no longer were they just a long-distance couple—today, they could be more.

Freminet smiled warmly. “Hi Collei. It’s a measure to pleet you.”

NO!

Notes:

This won’t be too long or high-effort, and I’m not sure how far I’ll go with this, but we’ll see!

Also note that there will be no angst because:
1. There are plenty of fics to choose from that have lots of Fremillei angst, and they do it better than I ever could
2. The purpose of this fic is to make your teeth rot and nothing more <3

Chapter 2: Collei and the House of the Hearth

❀❀❀

 

Collei didn’t hear Freminet’s verbal mistake because she was too busy studying his appearance.

This was their first time seeing each other in person. She kept her expectations to a minimum, but even so, she was a little surprised. Maybe that was natural. She studied his pale blonde hair, his pale periwinkle eyes, his dark beret, his dark diving suit, his dark shorts, his dark shoes, his innocent little freckles, Pers in his arms, his pale blonde hair again, his pale periwinkle eyes again—

Catching herself staring, Collei stopped and reduced her observations to all but one: He kind of looked like a girl. It was mainly because of his clean youthful appearance. And also his hair. Not that she’d ever say it out loud, though.

But all in all, he looked . . . cute. Now that was something she’d never say out loud.

Or maybe . . .

Collei violently shook her head, which confused Freminet. Her telling him he was cute? Imagine if that was the first thing she said to him in person. Silly, silly Collei.

She simply smiled in return. “It’s a pleasure to meet you too,” she said, internally celebrating for not messing up again.

Freminet recollected himself and inhaled. “How are you today?”

“I’m doing good. You?”

“Same.”

Collei thought about what to say next. But as with most first meetings—like when she met that alchemist in Mondstadt—she ended up trapping herself instead. Many choices presented themselves to her, and each passing microsecond made it harder to decide. What was she supposed to say now? What would Master Tighnari or anyone else good at socializing say? Furthermore, despite the storm raging in her head, all she did on the outside was shuffle in place awkwardly.

Meanwhile, Freminet held Pers a little tighter. His eyes would occasionally meet Collei’s, only to fall and slip away. His body didn’t move as much, but the look on his face seemed much more active. Subtle and quiet, but active nonetheless. Only now did she remember they were both introverts lacking in the socializing department.

The other Sumerians and Fontainians chatted away, but they may as well have been muted. Collei and Freminet had been kidnapped and enclosed in a world separate from the outside. A world called Awkward Silence. Though, the others probably didn’t want to interrupt the fateful meeting between the two.

At last, Freminet picked the conversation back up. He pointed at the white and gold machine beside Tighnari’s legs. “That must be Karkata?” he asked.

“Yup,” Collei replied. “Karkata’s helping with bringing some suitcases. And also carrying the parts for Madam Faruzan’s Tamimi.”

“You Sumerians are really good with technology.”

“I guess. I don’t know anything, though. You should talk to Kaveh about that stuff.”

“Oh.”

“Yeah.”

Some more silence. This time, Collei fidgeted with her own clothes. Freminet glanced at the architect in question, but he obviously didn’t want to abandon her. She felt the same. However, that only meant taking extra blows to their own self-consciousness.

“Speaking of which, would you like to see Pers?” Freminet asked.

“Yeah!”

He looked like he just remembered Pers was in his arms. He then showed the little guy to Collei. Those light blue eyes said hello in their own quiet way. Right at that moment, she got an idea.

“Give me a second,” she said, turning around.

Somehow, Tighnari already had Cuilein-Anbar in his hands as if he knew this would happen. He tossed the cat doll over to her, and she eagerly held it towards her boyfriend.

“This is Cuilein-Anbar!” she declared proudly. 

Freminet studied the doll for a good while. The whole time, Collei watched the ever-drifting shine in his irises. She got a great deal of satisfaction from it.

“It’s pretty,” Freminet murmured, “like you.”

Collei felt hot. “You’re just saying that.”

“Well yeah. Because it’s true.”

She clenched her fists as if that would somehow remove the blush on her face. Then she aggressively thrust the doll in Freminet’s direction.

“You can hold Cuilein-Anbar!” she exclaimed, although it sounded like an order.

Freminet complied and took it with one hand. He reciprocated by offering Pers with the other hand. Collei accepted graciously as if she were receiving a holiday gift. She studied the mechanical penguin from all angles, marvelling at the craftsmanship. More than anything, though, it was so rotund. Freminet talked about wanting to modify Pers so it could fly, but Collei wondered how the heck that would happen.

It’s handsome like you, she thought about saying. But, worrying it might sound too forced right now, she decided against it.

“I like the little hat,” she mentioned, looking up.

Freminet was holding Cuilein-Anbar against his face and neck.

“Ah, sorry,” he stammered, lowering the doll. “It’s just really soft.”

Collei beamed. “You know, I like to hug Cuilein-Anbar in my sleep. Really comfy!”

Freminet beamed as well.

“I, uh, hope you don’t think I’m too childish for that.”

“Not at all.” He sounded a bit relieved for some reason. “Even now, I still think of fairytales. It’s nice to put myself in storybook worlds whenever things get too hard.”

“Yeah, that’s understandable.”

“Mm.”

Another moment of silence. Collei’s eyes drifted to the others—to Tighnari, Cyno, Kaveh, Alhaitham, Candace, Dehya, Dori, Nilou, and Karkata—to Lyney, Lynette, Chevreuse, Chiori, Charlotte, Navia, Clorinde, and Furina—and occasionally back to Freminet. He did the same. At some point, Collei opened her mouth, only to immediately forget what to say. Freminet looked at her expectantly, and it killed her to disappoint him.

This made no sense. They were already in a relationship. So why did this feel like getting to know a stranger for the first time? As much as Collei wished that weren’t the case, it unfortunately was. Speaking in person would always be on a different league from long-distance communication.

That was when the magician siblings appeared. Maybe they realized the severity of this conversation and were here to save the day. Collei was grateful, and by the look in his eyes, so was Freminet.

“So you must be our new future sister-in-law,” Lyney teased. The tear-shaped mark on his cheek rose with his smile. “What an honour!”

Lynette smacked him in the back with her tail. Next, she said hello. Collei took note of the star-shaped mark on Lynette’s cheek, as well as her feline ears and tail.

Collei couldn’t explain why, but the magicians’ appearances practically demanded her attention. They were classy and charismatic without even trying. But at the same time, they had this mysterious, exclusive vibe to them. Collei felt like she wasn’t supposed to be looking at them. It made her avert her eyes most of the time.

Lyney adjusted his top hat. “Hope you’re doing well, Collei. What do you think of Fontaine so far?”

“Fontaine’s really great so far. We saw the huge waterfalls from the boat ride, and that was just amazing. Then we saw everything else from the Aquabus ride. I think it’s a wonderful place! Oh, and here in the city? I love it too.”

Lynette flashed two thumbs up. “Glad to hear.”

“The general consensus among tourists seems to be that Fontaine is very beautiful, albeit in a jarring way,” came an older woman’s voice. “Hopefully the nature of the vacation itself serves you as well as the scenery serves your eyes.”

There was a sudden chill in the air as Collei looked up. Lyney, Lynette, and Freminet all stood aside to make way for a tall woman wearing an intricate grey suit. Her hair was silver and black, and those eyes looked like the void with the exception of the big red X in each.

The Knave smiled, if one could call it that, and extended a hand. “Delighted to make your acquaintance Collei. Freminet has told me much about you.”

As Collei shook that vantablack hand, a haunting sensation surged through her veins, like the feeling of being entranced by a crimson moon in the sky with no escape from the gaze it returned. It was the kind of sensation that would leave her paralyzed, her mind broken, helpless on her knees while draining her body and blood of her soul’s every drop . . . 

Okay, maybe her mind was overreacting. Being a nervous wreck—nay, a nervous cataclysm—could do that to people.

“Nice to make your acquaintance too, Miss Knave,” Collei muttered, shaking her hand a bit too long.

The Knave carefully pulled away, clearly aware of her effect on the trainee Forest Ranger. “As impossible a task as it may seem, try not to worry about me. This vacation has nothing to do with my work as a Harbinger.”

Collei nodded, wiping some sweat off her brow. The Knave definitely meant well, but if only she fixed that heavy aura of hers!

“This is why you should relax and take more time off, Father,” Lyney suggested. “You gotta mingle with the people!”

“Very funny, Lyney.”

The Knave and the magicians continued talking with Collei and asking her what she looked forward to in this vacation. The more they spoke, the less anxious she got. Gradually, they began to seem less like a Fatui intelligence division and more like a regular foster family. Of course, the Knave would never not be scary, but Collei wasn’t gonna let that get in the way of spending valuable time with her boyfriend.

She briefly recalled her dark past, specifically the parts with the Fatui and the Doctor. Those people shaped her life and ruined her outlook on the world in too many ways to count. Naturally, one effect was her negative reaction to Freminet revealing his identity not too long ago. That section of her past couldn’t be buried or erased, Collei knew.

But now here she was, engaging in conversation with the Fourth of the Fatui Harbingers and her children.

She felt a twinge of pride in herself.

 

❆❆❆

 

While Collei spoke with the family, Freminet noticed the foxlike ears and jackal headpiece coming his way. He mentally prepared himself, but he also relaxed a bit since he didn’t have the pressure of taking the lead this time.

“Greetings, Freminet,” said the former. “I am Tighnari. Forest Watcher and Collei’s master. It’s nice to finally meet face to face.”

The latter cleared his throat. “And I—” 

“And this is Cyno,” Tighnari interrupted.

Cyno passed him an electrifying side eye. “I said I can introduce myself just fine.”

“As you know, he is Sumeru’s General Mahamatra.”

“You know what? You’re incorrect. General Mahamatra Cyno is not here today. Let this be the last time I remind you: I am Cyno the Adventurer.”

Tighnari rolled his eyes.

“Mr. Freminet, you enjoy being a diver, correct?” the General Mahamatra—or rather, the Adventurer—asked.

Freminet nodded. “The world under the sea is a very nice place, sir.”

“Then it’s a good thing Fontaine’s climate isn’t the same as Snezhnaya. Otherwise the waters would just be frozen all the time,” Cyno replied. “Could you imagine? If Fontaine was cold enough, it would be called the Nation of Just-ice.”

This intimidating man telling such a goofy joke was the strangest thing. Freminet didn’t know whether to laugh or groan or ignore it altogether.

Tighnari waved one hand to brush the joke aside. “Anyway Freminet, while on diving, let me ask this: Do you consider yourself well-versed in marine biology?”

“Um, I guess so?”

“Excellent,” Tighnari beamed. “I’ve been wanting to learn about life in the underwater world. Having someone teach me would be a very valuable experience.”

The solitary diver, Freminet, teaching the renowned Forest Watcher, Tighnari? Now that was something.

“Marine life is certainly different from terrestrial life,” Freminet replied. “I don’t know if it’s just me, but sea creatures just seem more free in the water than the ones on land. Kind of like me. That’s one of the main reasons why I enjoy diving so much.”

He stopped himself, wondering if he said too much.

Cyno nodded. “I can certainly imagine that. Sometimes, the land is crowded up here. Maybe swimming freely as a fish really is the ideal life.”

Tighnari eyed him suspiciously.

“What? Is the idea of Cyno the Fish really so strange to you?”

“Yes!” exclaimed a frustrated Tighnari. “Cyno the Adventurer is silly enough as is. What on Archons’ green Teyvat is Cyno the Fish?”

Chevreuse suddenly popped in. “I think it’s a sound idea. Imagine Cyno as a fish. He would be the General Tunamatra.”

Cyno placed a firm hand on her shoulder. It looked like such an earnest, sincere gesture that even the Special Patrol captain herself was surprised.

“Thank you, my good friend,” Cyno uttered. As he said that, he gave Tighnari another electrifying side eye. In response, Tighnari pinched the bridge of his nose.

Freminet couldn’t help but smirk at their stupidity. He felt lucky that this was going much better than Collei and Lady Arlecchino’s meeting. And then he felt guilty for feeling lucky.

Another few minutes passed with the Sumerians and Fontainians chatting away. Cyno kept annoying Tighnari with jokes while Chevreuse enabled him. Dehya and Candace were busy admiring the dressed-up dogs, much to Clorinde and Navia’s delight. Alhaitham and Kaveh had started bickering with Nilou trying to break them up. Dori and Charlotte talked about spicy stories. Furina played with Karkata. Here in this area outside Hotel Bouffes d’ete, the atmosphere was loud and lively, a perfect start to a vacation between international friends.

Then, at some point, Chiori clapped her hands and stole everyone’s attention. She cleared her throat. “Anyone hungry? I think it’s a perfect time to go get dinner together.”

Furina patted her stomach. “I’m craving just about everything right now, so absolutely!”

Chevreuse nodded in agreement. However, Chiori called her out for eating fries and onion rings right before meeting the Sumerians at the Aquabus station.

“It’s true that the brain cannot run on a shortage of food,” mentioned Alhaitham.

Dori licked her lips. “Neither can Mora.”

To which Kaveh replied, “That makes no sense.”

The group began to discuss dinner. It was mostly the Fontainians debating which restaurant would be the best choice, clearly based on their individual tastes.

During this, Freminet approached Collei once more. “Ever tried Fontainian cuisine?” he asked.

“Nope.”

“Then I think your mouth will have a lot of fun.”

“Mm. Can’t wait!”

After a heated debate, the Fontainians finally agreed on dinner at Hotel Debord. Not only did it have a great selection of dishes and desserts, but the owner often invited artists to perform there. That way, tourists like the Sumerians could experience two sides of Fontaine’s culture at the same time. So that’s where the vacation group would head after the Sumerians checked into their rooms and unpacked.

“Collei?”

“Yeah, Miss Clorinde?”

“Navia and I have a question for you.”

“Okay!”

Collei joined the two ladies standing off to the side. Before she did so, she passed Freminet a little grin. Quick as it was, her face shone at that moment. It nearly made him trip over himself.

“Okay Collei,” Clorinde began, “do you play any tabletop games? Because Navia and I were thinking . . .”

While that went on, Freminet reflected on the past few minutes. His mind filled up with every action he took, every word he spoke, and every look he gave. And what a curse it was to be so skilled at self-reflection.

Stupid, he told himself. I should’ve taken the lead more. I should’ve told her other things. Did I weird her out by calling her pretty? Should I have complimented her more?

“Don’t sweat it!” Lyney spoke as if he heard those thoughts. “You two have so many chances to talk on this vacation.”

“Namely your date in a few days,” Lynette added. “That will be your opportunity to woo her and show her how great you are.”

“So there is no rush,” concluded Father.

Freminet nodded with a sigh. “You’re right.”

At first, he got more nervous at the mention of the date he planned with Collei prior to the vacation. But the more he thought about it, the more excitement rose. He wanted to show her the wonders of his home, above and below the sea. He wanted to show her this little part of the world he cherished so dearly, to see the shine of awe in her eyes, to watch her fill up with joy and excitement and everything bright.

He wanted Collei to fall in love.

With Fontaine, of course.

Yes, that’s right. With Fontaine.

Chapter 3: A dinner date, kind of

Notes:

Sorry for the wait! Here you go have fun bye bye see you next time yippee

❀❀❀

 

The Hotel Debord staff must’ve been confused upon seeing this massive group of Fontainians and Sumerians walking through the door. Imagine someone sitting there, eating their food in peace, perhaps having a chat with a date or business partner, then all of a sudden, in comes Lyney, Lynette, Freminet, Navia, Clorinde, Charlotte, Chevreuse, Chiori, and Furina . . . followed by Collei, Tighnari, Cyno, Kaveh, Alhaitham, Nilou, Dehya, Candace, and Dori. By the looks Collei glimpsed on some customers’ faces, she imagined it was bizarre.

“I wonder what they’re thinking of us,” Nilou said, entirely by coincidence.

Dehya gestured at a couple sitting near the corner. “Saw that guy do a double take—no, a triple take.”

“It shouldn’t be a problem at all,” Navia cheerfully mentioned. “Hotel Debord gets plenty of tourists. A group this big is just as welcome as anyone else.”

Kaveh nudged Tighnari’s arm. “Looks like leaving Karkata in your hotel room was the right choice.”

“Obviously,” Alhaitham butted in. “Isn’t it common sense that foreign autonomous machines are not allowed in this establishment?”

“Common sense?” Kaveh repeated. “This isn’t Sumeru. Fontainian customs could be vastly different.”

“Kaveh, it’s precisely stated in Hotel Debord’s rules. Which, you know, I actually read.”

“Wow, well good for you!”

Dori coughed loudly in their direction.

At the front of the crowd, Lyney waved at the host. “Evening, Mr. Sanguinetti.”

“A pleasure to have you once again, Lyney,” Sanguinetti replied, fixing his red coat and coming over.

“Did you get our reservation for eighteen?” Lyney asked. It was hilarious how casual he sounded. “You should have gotten a request from one of Ms. Navia’s men.”

“Indeed,” Sanguinetti answered just as casually. “Usually, this would’ve been problematic, but it’s a good thing today is a lot less busy. Besides, how could we possibly turn down the great magicians and Lady Furina? Not to mention Miss Clorinde, Miss Navia, Miss Chiori, Miss Chevreuse—”

“Okay, okay, we appreciate it,” Navia interrupted. “I’ll tip you guys extra just for accommodating all of us!”

“How generous, Demoiselle. Unfortunately, we have nine free seats together on the first floor, and nine on the second. Your group will have to be separated.”

“No worries, we figured that would be the case. Just, uh, give us a second to decide who’s sitting with who.”

Sanguinetti nodded before stepping away. “Of course, but make it quick.”

“Alright then,” Alhaitham began, “who’s sitting with who?”

Collei shuffled a little closer to Freminet. Their sleeves touched, which was enough to send tingles through her arm.

“Lynette and I will be with the lovebirds,” Lyney sang, embarrassing them both.

“So will Cyno and I,” Tighnari added.

Chiori raised a hand. “I’ll be with them too. We’ve got some fashion-related affairs to discuss.”

“Then I’ll join too,” Chevreuse added. “Who’s the ninth?”

Furina shrugged. “If no one wants to volunteer, I suppose the spotlight is mine . . .”

“It’s a seat, Your Highness,” Chiori scoffed.

“Hmph! Your tone displeases me.”

“We’d be honoured to have Lady Furina,” Cyno declared. “Actually, I was about to suggest it myself—I wanted to discuss our comedy preferences. Chevreuse too.”

A sparkle appeared in Furina’s eyes.

“Argh, no!” Charlotte exclaimed, clenching her fists. “I should’ve sat with them. Now I can’t listen to Cyno’s incredible jokes!”

“I’d say that’s a blessing,” Kaveh muttered.

Collei agreed. Any time Cyno told his jokes over dinner, it automatically made her food taste worse. She got that everyone had a different sense of humour, but she, for the life of her, could not comprehend how any of these Fontainians would find him funny.

“It’s okay, Charlotte,” Cyno replied sincerely. “I’ll tell my jokes loud enough for you to hear on the other floor.”

Tighnari looked horrified.

Dehya flashed a thumbs up. “Cool, I guess that means the rest of us are sitting together.”

Clorinde eyed Kaveh and Alhaitham. “Seems our group will have a very eventful time.”

Sanguinetti returned and took everyone to their seats. Collei, Tighnari, Cyno, Furina, Chiori, Chevreuse, and the siblings were on the first floor. Two tables had been connected so everyone could sit together. Meanwhile, everyone else was on the second floor. As for Collei, she sat next to Freminet on her left and Tighnari on her right. Shortly after they were seated, a waiter came to take everyone’s orders. Freminet recommended Collei some Poisson Seafood Soup. Despite him claiming he didn’t want to pressure her, she accepted his recommendation without a second thought.

“So, Collei,” Chiori began, “are you interested in fashion?”

“I, uh, definitely not,” Collei stammered. “Ah—what I mean is, I’m no fashionista! I mean, I don’t really know anything about fashion. Hehe . . .”

The fashion designer rested her chin on her hand. “Good. That means you won’t be too picky when you try on dresses tomorrow.”

This decision had been made right after everyone met the House of the Hearth and picked where to eat. As expected, the thought of trying on Chiori’s dresses put Crystalflies in Collei’s stomach. At the same time, though, it was exciting. She wanted to know what she looked like in a beautiful Fontainian dress, like all the ladies walking up and down the street.

“Pardon me, but you give me the vibe that business has been tough for you,” Cyno commented, looking the designer up and down. “Has it?”

Chiori scoffed. “Every few weeks or so, I get a customer acting like they own the place. People don’t seem to realize that the whole ‘customer is always right’ shtick is just nonsense. I don’t care if you’re nobility or not—if you break my rules, I throw you out the window, same as anyone else.”

Chevreuse loudly cleared her throat.

Then, Chiori noticed the fear on Collei’s face. She added, “Don’t worry. From what I’ve seen so far, you’re nothing but respectful. Curious and enthusiastic, but ultimately respectful. So you have my respect.”

Enthusiastic? Collei almost laughed.

“Annoying customers aside,” Furina chimed in, “I cannot wait to see what this trainee Forest Ranger looks like in Fontainian attire.” Her heterochromic eyes shifted to Freminet. “Same for this young diver. Will he be getting a Chioriya-style suit?”

Freminet shook his head. “Actually, the Fatui will tailor my suit. My Father has a certain . . . style she wants me to follow.”

Chiori raised an eyebrow. “She doesn’t trust my taste?”

“No no no, it’s not that—”

“Relax, I’m toying with you. She did let me make your siblings’ outfits, after all.”

Chevreuse gave her a side-eye sharper than a bullet. 

“What? I can have fun too.”

“Speaking of which, your Father couldn’t join us for dinner?” Tighnari asked the siblings.

“Unfortunately. She’s a busy woman,” Lyney said with a shrug.

“Shame.”

Collei didn’t complain. Anything to lessen the pressure on her. Of course, because that lady was Freminet’s “Father”, Collei hoped she’d get at least twice as comfortable with her by the end of the vacation. She wanted to leave Fontaine knowing she could handle being in the same area as Arlecchino without dying inside.

“I’m sure she’ll be around for her child going on a date,” Chevreuse suggested, nodding at Freminet. 

Freminet nodded back, barely making eye contact. “I think Father was really generous by allowing this to happen at all. Still, she’s been kind of strict about it, teaching me how to conduct myself and everything.”

“No kidding, little brother,” Lyney chuckled. “Looks like she really wants to win Collei over.”

“Really?!” Collei blurted.

The thought of the Fourth Harbinger wanting to leave a good impression on her . . . it was like a foreign concept to her. Wasn’t Collei the one who needed to earn the Harbinger’s favour?

Tighnari beamed at her. “See? They know you, they love you, and they’re happy to have you.”

“The honour of having you as a guest is ours,” Furina sang.

Collei grinned when hearing those words. But it was more of a cautious grin, like she was gauging how relieved she was allowed to feel.

Turning to the Fontainians, she declared, “I promise I’ll do my best to be a wonderful guest!”

Lyney looked shocked. “Like you aren’t already? Collei, you’ve been nothing but a treat so far! What do you think, Freminet?”

Freminet flinched. “Um, yeah, Collei’s a treat . . .”

“A treat indeed. Don’t you just wanna eat her up?”

Collei’s jaw dropped.

Tighnari spit out his drink, while Cyno and Chevreuse nearly choked on theirs.

Freminet looked like he’d died.

“For those who don’t know, we want to keep our appetite before the food comes,” Chiori proclaimed.

Eat me up?

All of a sudden, Lyney winced hard. Lynette must’ve kicked his leg under the table.

“What was that for?” he hissed.

“Brother, I don’t think you realize what you said,” she muttered, twirling a fork.

“I didn’t mean it like that! Or in any bad way!”

Does Freminet want to eat me up?

Furina said nothing. Even so, her expression clearly indicated she was enjoying this very much. Perhaps it resembled a scene in a romcom play unfolding before her very eyes.

“Thanks, Lyney,” Chiori groaned.

“Okay, forget it, let’s return to the topic at hand!” Lyney shouted, clapping his hands. Almost like a magic trick, it snapped Collei out of her sizzling thoughts.

He then winked at her. “Just leave it to us, okay? We’ll drag you out of your shell in no time. You’ll forget you were ever a stranger in the first place.”

“You can’t even drag your own siblings out of their shells,” Lynette retorted.

“Come on, I’m trying!”

Collei giggled. Then, it turned into a full-on laugh. That was the first time she truly laughed ever since leaving Sumeru. Needless to say, it felt incredible.

 

❆❆❆

 

Although he didn’t show it, Freminet’s mouth watered as the food arrived. When his bowl of Poisson Seafood Soup came, he got right to it. The way he wolfed his meal down, he hoped to the gods nobody noticed.

Unfortunately, someone did.

“Looks like you were starving this whole time,” Cyno commented. “You’re really diving into that soup, huh?”

Furina nearly choked on her garlic baguette. Chevreuse smirked.

“Cyno, eat your foie gras,” Tighnari grumbled.

Collei gave Freminet an apologetic smile before starting her meal.

He watched as Collei took the first sip of her Poisson Seafood Soup. After she swallowed, Freminet asked, “How was it?”

This was the moment of truth. The moment he’d realize if his recommendation saved or doomed his girlfriend’s appetite for the rest of the evening. The moment that decided whether or not she’d trust any of his recommendations from now on. The moment that would steer the course of all their future dinner dates for years to come.

Collei’s face exploded with joy. “Love it!”

Freminet sighed in relief. It didn’t look like she was lying to protect his feelings, which was wonderful.

“Is that Mr. Lyney and Ms. Lynette I see?”

The first-floor group of nine tuned to see a man gliding down the stairs. He had a different vibe than all the other customers and employees.

Lyney waved cheerfully. “Vaneigem, it’s been a while!”

The man stopped by the table and quickly studied the group. “Lady Furina too! Well I’m honoured. Is there a special occasion?”

Furina nodded. “Yes there is, my good sir—we’re treating some beloved friends from Sumeru to a nice Fontainian meal.”

“I see.” Vaneigem turned to Collei, Cyno, and Tighnari. “Esteemed Sumerians, thank you for choosing our beloved Hotel Debord. I am the owner of this establishment. Do not hesitate to call for me if you have any questions. I promise you will enjoy your time here.”

“Already do,” Tighnari reassured him. “This Cream of Mushroom Soup is delightful, sir.”

“My Fontainian Foie Gras as well,” Cyno added.

“And my Poisson Seafood Soup!” Collei beamed.

“Wonderful, wonderful,” Vaneigem said. He turned to Lyney and Lynette. “Just wanted to let you two know, the stuff is outside.”

“Great! We’ll get straight to it,” Lyney replied. Lynette gave a thumbs up.

One of Tighnari’s ears twitched. “What are you talking about?”

“You’ll see.”

Lyney and Lynette promptly got up from their chairs. They exited the building before anyone could respond.

Tighnari turned to the Fontainians. “Are they performing?”

Furina shrugged. “I wasn’t told there would be a performance. But I won’t complain.”

“Looks like we’re getting a surprise magic show,” Chevreuse said with a mouthful of Duck Confit. There must’ve been some Feast-O’s in there, too.

Collei gasped. “They’re doing a magic show? Right here in the restaurant?”

Furina nodded. “Remember, the owner invites artists to perform here at Hotel Debord. Though I suppose we neglected to mention that Lyney and Lynette are two of his favourites, hehe~”

It was to be expected, Freminet knew. He told Collei, “I think this will be the highlight of your night.”

Seconds later, two of the employees opened the front doors. In came Lyney and Lynette, rolling a table with a strange box on top. Right away, Freminet knew what their signature trick was going to be.

As the siblings got set up, Vaneigem came downstairs and clapped his hands firmly. Gradually, the whole restaurant quieted down.

He cleared his throat and began: “Good evening, my patrons. We will have a performance beginning shortly—”

“Heck yeah, Lyney and Lynette are performing!” said a random guy upstairs. A choir of cheers and applause quickly followed, engulfing the entire restaurant in early celebration.

Vaneigem shrugged. “Need I say more? Because I don’t think so. So, to everyone here, be it tourist or native, just sit back, relax, and enjoy the show.” After speaking, he walked away, handing the spotlight over to the magicians. The applause and cheers persisted until Lyney had to get everyone to quiet down.

“Ladies and gentlemen,” he spoke with a lulling tone. “Thank you for coming to Lyney and Lynette’s magic show once again! Since Mr. Vaneigem is getting right into it, I suppose we will too. Now, who here has seen the sawing-a-woman-in-half trick?” He tapped the rolling table and box next to him.

Ninety percent of the customers raised their hands. Freminet felt bad for the Sumerians, who stuck out like sore thumbs with their hands all down.

“The what trick?” Collei whispered.

“You’ll see,” Freminet whispered back. Collei sitting right next to him made this one magic show all the more exciting.

Lyney continued on, explaining how he’d be doing that trick tonight. However, he promised everyone that there would be a never-before-seen twist. As he spoke, he did some cool tricks with his top hat, flipping it and rolling it over his shoulders and everything. After, he set it down on the ground. Freminet knew that was important.

Meanwhile, Lynette stood there. Only after Lyney’s opening speech did she move—as the woman in this scenario, she hopped on the table and slid into the box. She did it in one swift, graceful motion, which saved a lot of time. As she slipped inside, a pair of legs that looked just like hers emerged from the other end of the box.

At this table, Freminet took several quick glances at Collei, Tighnari, and Cyno’s faces. He especially took note of their reactions when Lyney pulled out a comically large saw from nowhere. Their eyes widening and lips parting almost made him giggle.

“He’s not actually gonna cut Lynette in half, right?” Collei hissed. This would probably be the only time Freminet enjoyed hearing her worry.

“Surely not,” said a wary Cyno.

Then came the moment Lyney began sawing the box in half, with Lynette stuck inside. Collei gasped in horror while Cyno and Tighnari watched with burning anticipation. Freminet would kill to replay their expressions.

There were a few oohs and ahhs when Lyney finally split the box and table. He covered up both ends with two square blades before pulling them apart. Now, there were two smaller tables with a smaller box on top. Each box contained a half of poor Lynette. One could only imagine the pain behind that absolutely deadpan expression . . .

“As expected, not a big reaction from our guests,” Lyney said, walking to the box with Lynette’s upper half. He knocked on it and asked, “Why don’t you show them the twist, my dear sister?”

Lynette nodded. Then, she wiggled her feet all the way in the other box.

“Whoa,” Collei remarked. “How?”

Feeling evil, Freminet said nothing.

“That’s the twist?” asked a disappointed customer near the entrance.

Lyney whirled around to face him. “Oh? Were you expecting more, good sir?”

“Well, yeah. This isn’t all that different from the usual—”

He shut up right away. Followed my some commotion from the rest of the crowd.

“From the usual? What were you going to say, sir?” Lyney asked cheekily.

The customer started laughing, and so did many others. Like Freminet predicted, Lyney leaving his hat on the ground would be important. Right now, two white rabbits had crawled out of it. Followed by another. And then another. Rabbits just kept spilling out of the hat.

“Lyney, your hat!” Navia shouted from upstairs.

“Sorry?” he asked, putting a hand to his ear. “Did you say something, Miss Navia?”

“I said your hat! A bunch of rabbits are crawling out!”

“What? I can’t hear you!”

“Your hat!”

“Huh?”

Another wave of laughter.

Finally, Lyney looked at his hat. Six rabbits were now hopping around on the floor for everyone to see. He dropped his act at last, only to do a new one by putting his hands on his face and acting surprised. “Oh, silly me! Are animals allowed in this establishment? I’ll take care of this right away.”

The owner of said establishment did nothing but clap. Vaneigem loved this show as much as he always did.

Cyno had a terrifyingly big smile on his face. “Is this a magic show or a stand-up comedy show?”

Tighnari shrugged. “Either way, they’re great.”

Freminet watched his siblings intently as they continued with the trick . . . even though it was just Lyney shoving the rabbits back in the hat and Lynette doing nothing. Then, he felt a poke on his arm.

“Your siblings are so amazing,” said a star-struck Collei.

He nodded. “I couldn’t agree more. Even though I don’t like the spotlight, I wish I was like them sometimes.”

Collei stared at him. Confused, Freminet stared back.

“You don’t need to be like them,” she said.

Freminet’s gaze wavered. “I know, it’s just—”

“I like you just the way you are.”

Now his face warmed up.

“I don’t like Lyney or Lynette. I like you, Freminet. Okay?”

Collei said every single thing with the straightest face imaginable. Did she even realize what she was saying? Freminet couldn’t tell, no matter how hard he looked into those amethyst eyes. Or maybe he was just being silly, getting embarrassed so easily and all.

Then just like that, he couldn’t look away. How funny it was—someone like him, who couldn’t maintain eye contact to save his life, now found his eyes glued to his girlfriend’s. But he knew this was how it should have been. Had they not been long-distance partners, they would’ve been this comfortable all the time.

Freminet didn’t remember when he started getting carried away. All he remembered was his hand moving on its own, moving a loose strand of Collei’s hair away from her radiant face. Then, he tucked it behind her ear, his fingers grazing the side of her face. As for Collei, she seemed completely hypnotized. She most likely felt nervous at his physical touch, but it looked as though wasn’t a single coherent thought behind those eyes anymore.

But Freminet felt the same way. He leaned in—

“Wonderful performance, Lyney and Lynette,” Cyno called out. “You know, I used to be friends with a magician, but he kept disappearing on me.”

Slowly, the crowd fell silent. Neither Furina’s laughter nor Charlotte’s laughter from the second floor could make it any less awkward. Freminet and Collei cringed in unison.

“One time, I was so angry that I pulled my hare out,” Cyno added.

Tighnari couldn’t do it anymore. He promptly got up and dragged the General Mahamatra into the restroom. Just like that, the promise of yet another series of bad jokes was flushed away.

Chapter 4: Silly day in Fontaine

❀❀❀

 

Today’s Fontaine-wide shopping spree began with a visit to none other than Chioriya Boutique. As mentioned yesterday over dinner, Collei was here to try on dresses for her date tomorrow. 

She came with Tighnari, Cyno, Kaveh, Alhaitham, Dehya, Candace, and Nilou. Dori was off doing gods-know-what, probably hanging out with Charlotte. Hopefully that went well and nobody got scammed. As for the Fontainians, along with this group came Navia and Clorinde. Chiori, of course, was here at her store. Chevreuse got caught up with Special Patrol work—she and someone named Emilie were busy with an important crime case. Furina would come later, and she’d be accompanied by the Traveler and Paimon which was a nice surprise. As for Freminet and his siblings, they said they were busy, but no one had any idea what they were doing. Typical House of the Hearth secrecy.

But that wasn’t all. Three new people Collei had yet to meet were on their way. She overheard the names of Fontaine’s Chief Justice and the Administrator and Head Nurse of the Fortress of Meropide. Something about meeting these major law-related figures made her stomach twist and turn. 

“You alright in there, Collei?” 

She jumped at the sound of Chiori’s distant voice, freeing her from her thoughts. “Yeah, I’m okay!” 

Somehow, she completely forgot she was in the fitting room. Hastily, she took off her casual attire and put on the dress she picked out for herself. As someone who never wore anything this fancy, it was tricky. Especially since Fontainian clothing had a vastly different style from Sumerian clothing. 

When that was done, she moved and twisted her body in numerous ways. Next, she took one good look at herself in the full-length mirror. Needless to say, her own appearance shocked her. 

The dress she chose went down past her knees, cloaking most of her in a sea of emerald and violet. The colours reflected her hair and eyes, which drew her to this particular outfit in the first place. Despite having many layers, it was perfectly slim and didn’t take up too much space. It felt comfortably loose around her skin, especially her legs and arms. Various intricate details completed the design, most of which being gold highlights that matched the casing of her Dendro Vision. Collei now looked half as gorgeous as those stylish women walking outside—but nowhere near Navia’s level, obviously. She looked like true nobility. Royalty, even. Her Sumerian identity merged with Fontaine’s fashion style in a striking, attractive blend. The longer she gazed at herself, the more different she looked. This unexpected, extravagant sight was not something her eyes could digest in merely a few seconds. 

All in all? Not bad. Seeing herself in a top-notch Fontainian dress was something she needed to get used to, but she liked this. 

“Miss Chiori?” she called out. “I’m wearing the dress now.” 

After a few seconds, Chiori’s voice replied, “Would you like to come out and show us?” 

Collei looked herself up and down again. Her opinion was one thing, but what about everyone else? Would they like this? She hoped so . . .

“Sure,” she answered, nervously optimistic. 

She left the fitting room and walked back to the rest of the store. The edges of her dress flowed like the sea breeze, swaying to a rhythm none could hear. When she emerged, she buckled under the weight of everyone’s gazes on her. She felt the anticipation in their stares, and she couldn’t meet any of them. 

As for the tsunami of voices that came after, that she couldn’t avoid. 

“Oh my gosh!” Nilou gasped with both hands over her mouth. “Collei!” 

“Holy crap,” Dehya said. 

“Collei, you look outstanding,” Candace added with a heartwarming smile. “That dress is sublime.” 

Navia seemed to be having a heart attack. “You’re adorable?!” she cried, her words sounding like both a comment and a question. 

Kaveh and Alhaitham nodded in approval.  

Tighnari didn’t say anything, but his wide eyes said everything. As someone who mentored Collei for years, seeing her in such fancy garments for the first time must’ve hit him like a boulder. 

Cyno clapped for some reason. “Chiori, I have underestimated you.” 

“Unsurprising,” Clorinde said. “Often, a girl and a dress can be a match made in heaven. Chioriya Boutique provides no shortage of that.” 

Collei went crimson from the attention. She fought a fleeting urge to run out of the store, despite knowing the attention on her would skyrocket if she did that. Quietly, she told the group, “I kinda like it.” 

Chiori looked her up and down, her crimson eyes steadily racing to and fro. “My opinion? I think this is the one. Freminet won’t be ready for this,” she uttered. 

Tighnari agreed. “It’s . . . perfect.” 

With a sheepish smile, Collei swayed back and forth, letting the jade folds of her dress flutter. 

Chiori drifted behind her, continuing her inspection. “So tell me what you think. Is the fit fine by you? Should I make adjustments?” 

“Oh no, the dress is okay as is,” Collei stammered. 

“Nonsense. The look in your eyes tells me it could be better, even by just a little bit. And I will accept nothing less than perfection.” 

“It is just a date, after all,” Tighnari mentioned. “Besides, there won’t be enough time to alter a dress before tomorrow evening.” 

Chiori placed a firm hand on Collei’s shoulder. “Here at Chioriya Boutique, minor alterations can be done in less than 24 hours.” 

Dehya’s jaw dropped. “I was expecting a few days at the least, but 24 hours! Miss Chiori, you’re on another level.” 

Nilou looked just as dumbfounded. “Is that even possible—?” 

Chiori pointed a thumb at herself. “I have my ways.” 

Being a Trainee Forest Ranger, Collei knew nothing about altering a dress. All she could do was trust the renowned fashion designer. “Well . . . I guess it could be a little tighter around my midsection? If that’s possible, of course. And just a little.” 

“Understood. I’ll take proper measurements in a second.”

“I’m glad this went so smoothly,” Cyno declared with an air of proud satisfaction. He turned to a certain architect and said, “Your turn, Kaveh. Let’s have you try on some dresses.” 

Kaveh recoiled as if those words punched him in the face. “Excuse me?!” 

“You are excused. Come on, we already discussed this yesterday.” 

Laughter came from Dehya, Candace, and Nilou’s direction, all of whom were picking out some nice outfits for themselves. Tighnari looked like he didn’t know whether to laugh or tell Cyno to have mercy. 

Navia lit up like a candle. “Ooh yes! I want to see Kaveh in a dress.” 

“No you don’t,” Kaveh promised.

“Yes I do.” 

“No you don’t.” 

Clorinde shrugged. “If anything, you’d look like Navia.” 

Collei beamed, still playing with her dress. “You’ll look good, Kaveh!” 

He wiped a curtain of sweat from his forehead. “I appreciate the support, but I’m afraid I have to disappoint you all.”

The whole time, Alhaitham stood there and said nothing. It was hard to tell what transpired behind those pale, cyan eyes. Probably utter confusion . . . or maybe a hint of intrigue? He did well not to show it. 

Unfortunately, everyone’s efforts were in vain—the group left Chioriya boutique without Kaveh trying a single dress. On the bright side, measuring the alterations for Collei’s dress was quick and easy. Cyno also gave Chiori a 100% tip for the dress, much to the designer’s confusion. He didn’t even mean to show off.

Two hours passed. The Sumeru-Fontaine group explored the shops and streets of the Court of Fontaine, stopping for a quick fast-food lunch along the way. Bit by bit, the Sumerians slowly got used to the lively, elegant culture of the Nation of Justice.

Soon enough, the long-awaited latecomers would join the fun. After the group had their pictures taken in front of the fountain at Vasari Passage, they noticed a familiar trio heading their way: Furina, the Traveler, and Paimon. 

“There you guys are!” Paimon called out with a midair wave. The gleam in her eyes could be seen from all the way over here. Collei and the others waved back. 

“Hey hey,” the Traveler greeted upon arrival. “Great seeing you all again.” 

“Traveler and Paimon,” Cyno greeted. He turned to Furina. “I’m sorry, Miss Furina. We could not convince Kaveh to wear one of Chiori’s dresses.” 

Furina clutched her heart like she’d been shot. She nearly fell to her knees, right there in the middle of the street. 

“Sorry we’re late!” Paimon said, eagerly floating around the whole group. “We were helping Furina cook brunch.” 

Offended, the former Hydro Archon immediately recovered and puffed up her chest. “Excuse you, Paimon? I did quite fine on my own, for your information! Consider yourselves mere supervisors.” 

“Food turned out pretty good, though,” the Traveler said. 

Nilou smiled brightly. “Good job, Furina.” 

Furina squinted. “I can’t tell if you’re patronizing me or congratulating me . . .” 

“Anyway, Traveler and Paimon, glad you could join us," Kaveh said, twirling Mehrak around his fingers.

The Traveler gave a thumbs-up. “Having fun so far, Kaveh? Or are you and Alhaitham too busy researching Fontaine’s architecture?” 

Alhaitham nodded, completely unfazed. “We are having fun researching Fontaine’s architecture.” 

Navia snorted. “I can’t tell if that was a joke or not.” 

“I don’t joke.” 

“Yeah right,” Kaveh scoffed. 

Alhaitham cocked his head. “Got something to say?” 

“Based on the stuff I hear from you daily, you should be a comedian.” 

“What, like this morning when I said you were unbearably naive?” 

“Among many other blatant insults!” 

Collei, Tighnari, and Cyno exchanged grimaces. 

“Looks like we came at the perfect time,” called a deeper voice, accompanied by heavy footsteps approaching. “We get to witness the infamous discord between Sumeru’s esteemed scribe and architect.” 

Clorinde’s eyes lit up. “Your Grace.” 

“Accompanied by none other than the Head Nurse and Chief Justice,” Navia remarked, lowering her sunglasses. When did she even put them on? 

Joining the group this time were Neuvillette, Wriothesley, and Sigewinne. Despite the intimidating aura surrounding both men, with their striking appearances and regal demeanour, seeing Sigewinne happily walking between them was pretty funny. 

Paimon waved them over. “The big shots are here!” 

“Hello. Nice of you three to join us,” Candace beamed. 

“We’re here to put our vacation days to good use,” the Melusine nurse sang. She went up to the Sumerians and asked, “How are you doing? No seasickness or discomfort of any kind?” 

“Nothing of the sort,” Tighnari answered. “You must be Sigewinne? I am Tighnari. It’s nice to finally meet you in person.” 

“Likewise. I can’t wait. I have so many things to ask you about Sumerian healthcare,” she said, extending a gloved hand. 

Tighnari had to bend down for the handshake. 

“Apologies for our tardiness,” the Iudex declared. “We just got done fishing on the shoreline.” 

Collei realized she was the one standing closest to him. She panicked and did a quick bow. “N—Nice to meet you, Monsieur. I’m Trainee Forest Ranger Collei from Sumeru and it’s a measure—I mean a pleasure to meet you!” 

“The pleasure is all mine,” the Iudex replied softly. “Curious guests from beyond these waterfalls are more than welcome here.” 

There was something in the way he spoke, something in the way he looked at her, that felt so warm. She couldn’t explain why, but it eased her anxiety. She found herself wondering how deep and complicated the world of Monsieur Neuvillette truly was.

Furina gave him a brief, modest grin. “Lovely to see you again.”

Neuvillette nodded respectfully. “I am pleased that you came as well, Lady Furina.”

Next, he inspected the already-massive gathering. “Could the siblings not make it?”

“The Hearth family is unfortunately occupied,” Candace replied.

“Of course,” Wriothesley sighed. “In all honesty, I still have mixed feelings about their shadiness.” 

Cyno shrugged. “It can’t be helped. Regardless, it’s a shame they’re missing out.” 

“Quite,” Navia agreed. “Now let’s get a move on! We still have many places to stop by.” 

The group got moving without a second to waste. Leaving Vasari Passage, they drifted from store to store, from attraction to attraction, stopping every now and then to sample some divine Fontainian snacks. Most of the treats went to Furina, of course. As for Tighnari and Sigewinne, they discussed plenty of biomedical jargon Collei lacked the brain size to understand. Kaveh and Alhaitham couldn’t go half an hour without being at each other’s throats again. Wriothesley seemed to enjoy the banter just a little too much. Then, without warning, Cyno ditched the group mid-stroll to help Chevreuse and Emilie catch a few criminals. The suddenness confused everybody, but they quickly laughed it off.

These were but a few of the many wild events that occurred on their wondrous day out. The Sumerians and Fontainians had, perhaps, too much fun as they scoured the Court of Fontaine of interesting attractions and souvenirs. 

But the biggest surprise? Introverted little Collei found herself wishing this day would never end. 

 

❆❆❆

 

“We must make a full detailed plan for Freminet’s date tomorrow,” Arlecchino began, folding her hands on the table.

Freminet still needed to process what just happened. For him, Lyney, and Lynette, it was just a normal day in Hotel Bouffes d’ete when, all of a sudden, Father stormed through the door and demanded a quick meeting. She had everyone sit at the table with no explanation. Then, she jumped straight into the matter at hand.

“Is that what this is about?” Lyney laughed nervously. “I thought you wanted us to do another mission or something.”

“This is a mission,” she replied. “The objective is to ensure Freminet and Collei have a smooth and seamless date.”

Lynette tilted her head. “I don’t think a date is on the same level as retrieving confidential intelligence.”

“So?”

None of the siblings knew how to answer her. Lyney and Lynette must’ve been trying to absorb this too, Freminet thought.

“Let us plan everything beforehand,” Arlecchino continued. “I talked to the Forest Watcher and General Mahamatra. Being the ones most familiar with Fontaine, we agreed it would be best to let us decide how this date goes.”

“So we’re here to discuss ideas? For where to take Collei and everything?” Freminet asked.

“Precisely.”

“Hm,” Lyney wondered. “Lynette and I do have a magic show tomorrow evening.”

A crystal glint flashed in Lynette’s eyes. “Perhaps Freminet could take Collei to our magic show. Disregarding our short spectacle at Hotel Debord, she has yet to see a full performance from us on stage.”

Lyney magically produced a card from the palm of his hand. “I think that’s a great opener to start the night. Nothing better than a spectacular magic show to set the mood!”

Freminet nodded in agreement. Seeing Collei’s awe at his siblings’ tricks yesterday wasn’t enough—he wanted to witness the star-struck sparkles in her eyes once more, in the face of a performance far surpassing anything she’d seen before. As much as he enjoyed finally getting to hear her voice in person, Freminet wanted nothing more than to hear her speechlessness at his talented family.

“My thoughts align with this sentiment,” Arlecchino commented. She turned to Freminet and added, “Obviously, you two will get front-row seats for an optimal experience. After that, you may find something to eat.”

“Um, actually,” he spoke, “I have an idea of my own. I want to take Collei diving.”

“Ooh, fantastic idea,” Lyney remarked, still doing tricks with his card. He then flicked it at Arlecchino, who caught it flawlessly and made it disappear.

“We’ve discussed it before, and she wants to go diving with me. I think this date would be the perfect time for that.”

Since Freminet wanted her experience to remain unparalleled, he vowed to pull out all the stops for tomorrow evening. Ending with a nice dive underwater, showing his girlfriend the wonders of the aquatic world below the surface . . . that sounded like the best way to do so.

Arlecchino’s eyes glinted sharply. “Excellent idea. That shall be how you conclude the date. However”—she raised a finger—“you must wait at least 30 minutes after dinner before swimming. Perhaps an hour if you have a bigger meal.”

“Understood.”

“That said, I’d prefer if you don’t stay out too late. I will set midnight as the latest time you must return by.”

“Of course, Father—”

“There are also several guidelines I have for you, each relating to etiquette. Since Collei is your guest, there is much you need to do to make her feel welcome and comfortable.”

The Knave proceeded to list countless tips for how Freminet needed to treat his partner. Most of them were simple rules of courtesy, like opening the door for her, carrying things for her, listening to her requests, respecting her boundaries, and prioritizing her in general. There was a sense of knightly chivalry to it all. Taking the lead and being decisive were part of most suggestions, which Freminet didn’t feel so great about. Luckily, he knew his desire to impress her would guide him on the right track. 

More than anything, the way Arlecchino treated this like a genuine mission made him want to laugh. To think she’d be going all out for planning his night with Collei . . .

“Hope you got all of that down,” Lyney chuckled afterwards. “Mentally, at least.”

“Don’t worry,” Freminet said. “Making sure she’s comfortable is what I want most.”

“Then I suppose that settles that,” Arlecchino confirmed, relaxing in her seat. “Another thing, Freminet—your outfit. As I mentioned earlier today, the minor alterations to your suit will be done by tomorrow morning.”

He shuffled in his seat. “You really didn’t have to do all this . . . The fit was actually okay when I tried it. I could easily wear it just for one night.”

“You expect me to be the least bit sloppy when it comes to planning your evening of romance? To not ensure you’re as comfortable as possible?” Arlecchino answered coldly. “What a fun little joke that is.”

He didn’t know what else to say. If he kept protesting, the now-present chill in the room might seep into his skin. On top of that, no way in a hundred eons could he ever change Father’s mind about something she took so seriously. Even more than most things.

Besides, he appreciated it more than anything.

“Thank you, Father.”

Chapter 5: Date night~

Notes:

OMG I updated this fic for once what???

Anyway hi sorry for the absence I'll get back to this and I promise I'll finish the rest of the Fontaine vacation before I die out again—-

❀❀❀

 

Before Collei knew it, the long-awaited evening had finally come.

In her hotel room—a spacious and ornate place—she stood in front of Tighnari and Cyno, showcasing her newly bought dress one more time before setting off on her date. The sunlight from the window washed the purple and green in warm cozy, shades and made the gold highlights shine. Standing in the light of the beginning sunset made her look even better than when she first tried this dress at Chioriya Boutique. 

Cyno gave a slow nod of approval. “Once again, I have no complaints.”

“It’s perfect,” Tighnari uttered.

“That’s the same thing you said at Chioriya Boutique.”

“What? You misremember.”

“Sure.”

“Anyway, don’t worry about your appearance, Collei. You look wonderful,” Tighnari said. “I’d even go so far as to say your current appearance rivals Navia’s.”

Collei furiously shook her head, taken aback that he would suggest such a preposterous lie.

“The little bit of makeup is fine too,” Cyno told Tighnari. “I think it’s better that there isn’t too much. I’d still like to be able to recognize her.”

“And do you like how I styled her hair?”

“Yes.”

Collei shyly swayed back and forth. “So you two think I’m ready for the date?”

“Do we think you’re ready?” Cyno repeated. “When Freminet sees you, he will be the one who won’t be ready.”

Honestly, that made her more worried than anything. If Freminet wouldn’t feel prepared, how on Teyvat would Collei get by?

As if reading her mind, the General Mahamatra said, “Just in case the mood feels a bit tense at first, I have a way to make yourselves more relaxed. Who’s to say a date has to be entirely serious?”

Tighnari’s eyes narrowed.

“For example,” Cyno continued, “recall that Freminet is a diver and would know much about aquatic life. You can say something like, ‘You look fin-tastic.’ Alternatively, you may use fishing as a conversation starter and tell him what a catch he is.”

“Are you trying to ruin their night?” Tighnari groaned.

“I’m trying to enhance it. Collei, you could also try to—”

Tighnari firmly yanked Cyno’s long white hair, shutting him up. “Just remember all the tips we gave you. Be yourself, Collei, because that’s the girl Freminet likes. Do that and all will be smooth.”

Collei nodded. “Yes, Master Tighnari.”

With that, the Forest Watcher stretched his arms. “Now all we have to do is wait.”

The following wait lasted half an hour but felt like half a day. Collei alternated between sitting down, looking at herself in the mirror, and absentmindedly flipping through her notepad. Naturally, she was too anxious to actually write anything in it. It wasn’t like she feared for her life—everybody’s positive feedback managed to quell her own doubts fairly well. A surprise for sure, but a welcome one nevertheless. Her stomach fluttered simply because that was how it felt knowing her first date would begin very soon.

Soon enough, three light knocks came from the door—shy knocks. Collei’s heart leapt a great distance, taking her whole body with it. She glided to the door and quickly opened it, not wanting to keep her partner waiting.

At that moment, she realized she didn’t prepare herself enough.

Seeing Freminet in that suit gave her a bigger brain freeze than any cup of Blubbercream could. It bore some similarities to his regular diving outfit, but the vibe couldn’t be more different. He wore a thin, pitch-black jacket and equally black pants decorated with cryo-coloured edges. The contrast between these two colours caught her eye, hitting her like a cold breeze on a hot summer day. He looked like pretty, icy lights permeating a dark night. The cuffs and lapels of his jacket mimicked a bird’s feathers. His waistcoat and shirt also sported dark shades, but as Collei took a closer look, she noticed several intricate patterns dancing across his clothes. Some of these patterns were rigid and proper, almost churchlike, but others moved like an invisible fire.

He looked like the Knave. In every good way.

“Hi,” Collei gasped.

“Collei,” Freminet started, searching for words along the way. “Your dress . . . It’s amazing.”

Collei obviously wasn’t alone in her bewilderment. Cyno was right—her appearance shook Freminet up like a smoothie.

She shuffled in place and looked down at herself. “It’s from Miss Chiori’s.”

“It looks great. It’s so . . . you.”

Wanting to shift the attention away from herself and her reddening cheeks, she gestured to his outfit. “You look really, really nice in that suit.”

She clenched her fists. She overdid the compliment.

“Thank you,” Freminet grinned. Cherry hues washed over his freckles.

“Forest Ranger Collei,” uttered a familiar stern voice. “Despite my child’s admirable attempt to comment on your appearance with words, the entire dictionary does not contain enough to describe how delightful you look.”

Collei shivered when the Knave herself showed up behind Freminet in the hallway. The compliment was very much appreciated, although she could have toned it down.

“Lady Arlecchino,” Tighnari called from inside the room. “Looks like the time has finally come.”

“So it has.”

Collei stepped out into the hallway so she wouldn’t block Cyno and Tighnari. Like her, they studied Freminet’s appearance and were sufficiently impressed.

“Very sharp, young man,” Cyno commented with a thumbs up.

Freminet smiled softly. “Thank you, sir.”

“Where did you find that suit?” asked a curious Tighnari.

“We Fatui tailored it ourselves,” Arlecchino replied, seemingly puffing up her chest with pride. “As you can tell, it has been personalized to Freminet’s taste and is quite fitting as a result. Seeing him wear it for the first time exceeded all expectations, of course.”

“No wonder. He stands out from the other Fontainian gentlemen we’ve seen.”

“That is the idea,” Arlecchino said before turning back to Collei. “I hope you both treat each other well.”

Collei pinched her nerves away and beamed. “I will, Miss Knave. And thank you!”

She and Freminet exchanged identical looks of quiet excitement.

“Wonderful, wonderful,” Cyno declared. “We’ll send you two off at the hotel doors.”

 

❆❆❆

 

Freminet wasn’t entirely here. He hadn’t quite processed the sight of Collei in that stunning dress.

Time passed in a blur as they left the hotel and walked through the dimly lit streets of the Court of Fontaine. The sun dipped closer to the horizon—not that anyone could see it over the city walls—and washed the sky in beautiful watercolour shades of coral, copper, and mauve. 

The pair ambled through Quartier Nabonnais, viewing the shops and structures neatly arranged all around them. The mixed aroma of food and perfume nearly hypnotized Freminet. People, Gardemeks, dogs, and Melusines strolled by, all in their standard fancy attire and polished clockwork components. For once, Freminet stood out among them. His black and blue suit of darkness, ice, and feathers demanded so much more attention. He felt thrice the number of eyes on him compared to any other day. 

That number was surely higher for Collei, though.

Speaking of Collei, she wanted to stop when they reached the centre of Vasari Passage. The fountain in the middle looked gorgeous, after all. So there they stayed to admire that light blue orb and all its floating rings. They didn’t mind letting the world spin around them and without them for a while.

Of course, they couldn’t stay here for long when they had a magic show to catch. They entered the Court Region Waterway Hub and promptly boarded the Navia Line—a name that made Collei giggle. The Melusine Elphane welcome them aboard with as much enthusiasm as a rock. Freminet and Collei sat next to each other, close enough for their shoulders to almost touch. When it departed, they were the only two passengers.

Freminet was obviously familiar with Aquabus rides. Meanwhile, he could feel the elation radiating from Collei’s body. She’d told him how much she enjoyed the ride on the Clementine Line when the Sumerians first arrived. As the Aquabus cruised along, Collei shifted wildly in her seat, hungry for the sights.

“I see why they call it the Navia Line,” Collei sighed. “It’s beautiful like her.”

In that case, it should’ve been called the Collei Line, Freminet almost said. He pinched himself for even thinking of something so corny.

Still, he knew there were worse things to say. Earlier, the General Mahamatra gave him some suggestions to ease the awkwardness. But Freminet did not intend to ruin Collei’s evening by telling her, “Do you believe in mermaids? Because we mermaid for each other.”

Poor Collei. Poor Tighnari, too.

For the next few minutes, the Aquabus cruised along, gently rocking back and forth. Apart from pointing out a few noteworthy sights, Freminet and Collei didn’t speak much. Meanwhile, Elphane was a quiet Melusine who looked as though chatting with the passengers was the last thing she wanted to do. Freminet did hear the sounds of the breeze and the water sliding under the boat, but the silence still seemed so deafening. But what else would they talk about? Freminet tried to think of a few things . . . Maybe he could ask Collei what she and her friends did in the House of the Hearth’s absence. Or maybe he could compliment her appearance again.

But when Freminet turned to Collei, he lost himself and all the words in his throat. The way his heart beat at the sight of her couldn’t be ignored. It wasn’t a rapid thumping that threw his feelings into disorder—somehow, despite maintaining a steady speed, his heartbeat had never been so powerful. Collei drew him in like a magnet today, and it wasn’t just her makeover.

She gazed at the huge, floating water cubes in the distance that belonged to the Fontaine Research Institute. Her eyes sparkled with the same awe Freminet felt whenever he explored wondrous new depths. He didn’t want to disturb her with his words.

Next, his eyes floated down to her hand on the seat.

Freminet wanted to be different starting today. He didn’t know when he’d stop being a social mess, but he could begin by taking the initiative with Collei. He already tucked her hair behind her ear that one time. This wouldn’t be much different, right?

He placed his hand on hers.

Collei flinched. Freminet turned his gaze straight ahead, but he didn’t panic. Instead, he concentrated on this unfamiliar sensation. 

Soft and warm. Then, softer and warmer. Silk and cotton. Water. Sunlight. Flowers and leaves. A light breeze. Sparks and flames.

Slowly, Collei flipped her hand over. Fingers interlocked. Palms touched. Freminet’s heart smashed against his chest so hard he thought he’d fallen off the Aquabus.

Even softer. Even warmer. Cotton candy clouds. The boundless ocean. The blazing sun. The beautiful moon. All the stars in the sky. Flower petals in flower gardens. The trees and vines of the rainforest. Storms and floods. A raging wildfire. 

A grounding anchor in the perpetual sea of uncertainty.

Safety.

Home.

Freminet glanced at Collei. This time, she was the one nervously looking straight ahead. Her lips froze in a pretty little smile.

Both of them continued sightseeing. Freminet found the world a tad more attractive this time around. The indescribable expression on Collei’s face indicated she felt the same. More importantly, the silence between them no longer felt so deafening. It had become a peaceful quiet not meant to be disturbed. Or rather, a sacred stillness blessed by the divine.

They were still holding hands when they got off at Marcotte Station. It stayed that way as they headed up the long and serene pathway. They joined the steady river of Fontainians like two fish on their way to brighter seas. Soon enough, the Fountain of Lucine welcomed them, and behind it, the Opera Epiclese made its majesty known.

Walking hand in hand with a cute girl had always been a faraway dream to Freminet. He had no idea how he reached this point or what he did to deserve this.

Nonetheless, he was far too ecstatic to feel shy about it.

 

❆❆❆

 

The lights in the Opera Epiclese dimmed. Freminet and Collei made themselves extra comfortable in their front-row seats. They were ready to be amazed tonight.

Freminet looked around one last time. He spotted Monsieur Neuvillette and Furina, who had their own front-row seats on the other side. Apart from those two, he didn’t see anyone else he knew. Maybe Father or Cyno or Tighnari came along to watch the magic show? If so, then good thing they weren’t anywhere nearby. That would’ve made this more awkward than it needed to be.

Lyney and Lynette appeared on stage, taking the spotlight with them. Freminet was half-convinced their presence alone commanded those lights to follow them. Then, Lyney went into his usual introductory speech, giving the audience a tease of what was to come. Freminet always envied his ability to not just stand out, but own it and go with the flow. As for Lynette, she didn’t do much more than stand there, but she deserved respect as well.

After discarding their Visions, Lyney and Lynette gave everyone a nice appetizer in the form of standard card magic. Cards spewed out of their fingers like water from a fountain, or lightning from a raincloud. And the way they moved across the stage and around each other, it looked like a waltz. Both magicians danced under the spotlight,  The audience lightly cheered every now and then. Even though these tricks weren’t anything new, that didn’t make the show any less entertaining to watch.

For the next part, Lyney and Lynette whipped out Pers and Cuilein-Anbar from their top hats. Collei and Freminet had given them to the siblings beforehand because they wanted to do some disappearing tricks.

“Look,” Freminet pointed out. “It’s Cuilein-Anbar and Pers.”

“Yeah,” Collei whispered. “They’re famous now, hehe.”

Lyney and Lynette did a crazy series of switcheroos with the two. The mechanical penguin and kitty doll seemed to be teleporting between the siblings’ hands, and even across the stage. Freminet and Collei clapped way more than the others this time around.

But they stopped clapping when Lyney and Lynette made Pers and Cuilein-Anbar kiss at the end. Freminet retreated into his seat, wanting it to swallow him up before certain images entered his mind. Collei did the same, and they exchanged funny looks. Meanwhile, one could hear Furina laughing in delight.

After making the penguin and doll vanish one last time, the magicians decided to take things to the next level.

Lyney pulled a pistolet out of his pocket. Murmurs arose from the crowd, the tension like a volcano about to erupt.

“No way.”

“Is that a gun?”

“What’s Lyney doing?”

“Isn’t that the same gun Miss Clorinde uses?”

“This must be that one trick!”

Collei gasped.

“This is, indeed, a well-known trick from the old times!” Lyney declared, twirling the pistolet around his index finger. “Tonight, I will be performing the legendary Bullet Catch trick!”

The commotion in the audience reached a noisy peak as the realization set in—Lyney would fire a gun at his sister.

“Is he really . . . ?” Collei whispered, dumbfounded.

Meanwhile, Freminet wondered where the hell Lyney got that gun from.

“Other magicians have a proper setup for this sort of trick, but my dear sister blew all of our budget on sweet treats,” Lyney joked, earning some laughs.

Lynette hit him with a death stare. Her tail wagged faster.

“Right then, enough of me talking,” Lyney declared. “Let’s get on with the trick, yeah?”

Lynette sighed and stood in position, her tail slowing down. During this, Lyney opened the pistolet cylinder to show everyone that the gun was, indeed, loaded. Next, he walked to a spot at a good distance away from his sister. While the audience kept expressing their excitement and worries, Lyney went ahead and raised the gun.

Silence filled the Opera Epiclese like a cold wind. Lyney aimed down the barrel with one eye.

Freminet and Collei leaned forward in their seats. The other audience members did the same.

One could hear the seconds ticking away as the siblings stood in position, their stillness alone sparking like flames.

Then Lyney pulled the trigger.

A sharp bang pierced the quiet.

Lynette violently hit the ground.

The crowd gasped.

Collei put both hands over her mouth.

Lyney lowered the pistolet. For the next twenty seconds, he stared at his sister’s fallen body with empty eyes. Whatever expression that had been on his face disappeared in an instant.

Again, silence conquered the Opera Epiclese, only interrupted by a few worried whispers. Tension flooded the building, holding dozens of hearts hostage.

“Lynette, you can get up now.”

At her brother’s request, Lynette sat up like nothing happened. Voices rose as the feline magician stood up once again, perfectly uninjured. She faced the audience and, while holding up peace signs, opened her mouth to reveal the bullet on her tongue.

Applause exploded from the crowd, blasting the tension away. Once again, the magician duo had dominated Fontaine with their unseen skills. Lynette took the bullet from her mouth and briefly showed it to the audience. Lyney clapped along as if he weren’t one of the people doing this trick.

Collei sighed in relief, which gave way to gleeful laughter. The anxiety in her voice gave way to genuine happiness once more. Freminet could listen to her laugh all day.

“How did they do that?!” she asked. 

“Good question.”

But Lynette hadn’t forgotten Lyney’s earlier one-liner at her expense. She flicked the bullet at her brother with ferocious speed. It hit his left hand, making him yelp. It also made him drop two cards hidden in his sleeve for some reason. That earned more laughs. Then, Lynette winked and pointed finger guns at the crowd. Her deadpan expression never faltered once.

“Hey,” Collei said, leaning over her armrest towards Freminet. “Thank you for taking me here . . . I know the magic show isn’t done yet, but I’m having so much fun.”

Freminet smiled and savoured the radiance of her. Just like that, he got everything he ever wanted out of the date—the chance to witness Collei’s unbridled joy and wonder. Her beautiful amazement overflowing in a beautiful moment.

Still, he knew it wasn’t over yet. They still planned to eat and go on a dive later. That part, Freminet looked forward to even more. He wasn’t gonna stop now. Not when he had the chance to see more of that starstruck face.

Maybe he was greedy, but he sure as hell didn’t care.

The rest of the magic show went without a hitch. The spectacle and elegance of Lyney and Lynette stole the night, and the show ended with a bang.

Chapter 6: Snow-kissed leaf

❀❀❀

 

Before Collei knew it, she and Freminet found themselves standing on an empty beach. The border between two worlds—one above the surface, and one below. The whispering waves lapped at the sand while reflecting the ethereal starlight and moonlight. A cool breeze danced through her hair and dress, carrying the sweet and salty scent of the sea.

She meant Lyney and Lynette no offence, but this was going to be the highlight of the date night. Diving into the Fontainian seas for the first time with Freminet might even turn out to be the highlight of her whole vacation.

“So you’re sure I don’t need a diving suit?” Collei asked, turning to Freminet.

Freminet shook his head. “All Vision bearers can breathe underwater in Fontaine perfectly fine.”

Surprising as it was, the fact fascinated Collei too. Breathing underwater was the stuff of stories and fairy tales. Here in Fontaine, it was an everyday thing for those with Visions!

“I also don’t want to go too deep tonight, so we don’t need protection,” Freminet added.

Collei wasn’t sure if he meant protection from sea monsters or water pressure, but both were plausible.

Along with Vision bearers breathing underwater, Collei also learned that none of them changed their clothes to go diving. According to Freminet, most Vision bearers in Fontaine swim in their regular clothes. That was weird. She felt hesitant about diving in her new dress, but Freminet had reassured her that Fontaine’s water wouldn’t ruin it.

Before they headed into the tides, Collei asked about something else: “Why do you sometimes carry your diving helmet around?”

“Ah . . . I wear it to block out the outside noises. It makes me feel safer.”

“Oh.”

A hidden instinct told Collei not to pursue the matter.

“Anyway, I won’t need it tonight.” Next, Freminet walked towards the shining, ever-shifting darkness of the waters. He stopped when the sea swallowed his shoes. He turned and gestured for Collei to follow him. She did so slowly.

When the water touched her leggings, she almost jumped.

“Yeah, it’s cold,” Freminet apologized, thigh-deep where he stood. “It’s not that much warmer in the day.”

Collei froze in place, feeling like she’d literally freeze in place.

“What I do is get into the water as fast as I can,” he continued. “It forces me to get used to the temperature quicker.”

Not wanting to keep him waiting, Collei waddled further and deeper. Moving her legs became tougher, and she needed more effort to maintain balance. The ends of her dress began to dance with the waves. The chill of the sea spread through the rest of her body. When the surface climbed her abdomen, she used her hands for extra movement. She sank further until the water rose to her neck.

Suddenly, fingers wrapped around one of her hands. A quantum of warmth in a void of cold. An anchor of stability in an ocean of unfamiliarity. She looked up at Freminet, whose head barely poked out of the water. 

“You ready?” he asked, still holding her hand.

Collei nodded.

In one smooth motion, he disappeared under the waves. Before submerging herself, Collei glanced at the starlit sky and the full silver moon. She bade it farewell, along with the gentle sea breeze. She closed her eyes and puffed up her cheeks with one deep breath. After, she lowered the rest of her head, following Freminet’s gentle pull.

No more air. Only water. Everything felt heavy pressing against her head and body. At the same time, she felt light. Caught between standing on the sand and floating away. Gravity stepped back and let the tides take over. The ambience of the surface disappeared too. All she heard was the mumbling and bubbling of the all-present water. It wasn’t just the absence of noise, for the sea closed off all noises starting at her ears. The border between sky and sea truly separated some vastly different worlds.

Collei held her breath the whole time. Even with Freminet’s reassurance, her instincts wouldn’t let her use her lungs. She also kept her eyes shut, as she didn’t like to open them underwater. It always stung when she opened them for more than a second. She wanted to resurface and prepare herself again.

But Freminet seemed to know exactly what to do. He gently squeezed her hand, using both of his own. The warmth of both palms and all ten fingers calmed her mind. His comforting heat spoke to her, driving away the maritime frost all around her skin.

Somehow, she understood what he wanted to say: It’s okay. Breathe.

She feared the unforgiving power and weight of the depths. But she trusted Freminet more.

Collei breathed in, keeping her eyes closed. She had never been so careful taking a single breath. Steadying her beating heart, she opened her lungs to the sea.

The sea waved hello.

She couldn’t believe it. She was breathing! It didn’t feel like air going through her nose and mouth, but it also didn’t feel like water. This strange and ticklish yet almost nonexistent fluid . . . the best way she could describe it was life. Here beneath the surface of Fontaine’s sea, Collei breathed life itself.

She exhaled, and then inhaled again. She breathed through her nose and mouth, separately and together. The breath of life flowed in and out like a cool current, soothing her lungs. Collei couldn’t help but laugh.

“I can breathe,” she tried to say, only for the water to muffle her voice. Freminet probably understood, though.

With another pull, Freminet took Collei further away from the shore. She abandoned her footing on the sandy floor and let her body drift. Nerve-racking as this sensation felt, she got used to it because she knew someone was here for her. Soon, Freminet stopped, and so did Collei. He gave her hand another squeeze. Longer this time.

Open your eyes.

Collei’s heartbeat picked up once more at his instructions. She didn’t know why, but something about opening her eyes underwater felt like a bigger step than breathing underwater. Shouldn’t it have been the other way around? Regardless, one thing was for certain—it wasn’t about protecting her eyes. Rather, was she ready to witness the mysterious world beneath the surface? What awaited her on the other side of these eyelids?

With one last deep breath, she opened her eyes.

And then she forgot how to breathe.

Nothing could have prepared her for the aquamarine wonderland that appeared before her now. The world of the depths struck her with its tranquil glory. Sceneries of silver landscapes and jade flora stretched out in all directions. Dark blue shadows of mountains, ruins, and other formations populated the horizon. Schools of multicoloured fish swam by in alluring currents. Crabs marched along the sandy trails snaking across the ocean floor, underneath hanging peaks and towering rises. A Blubberbeast glided just beneath her feet, singing a song of rumbling serenity. All of these oceanic landforms and jungles brimmed with aquatic creatures that put the Forest Rangers’ biological records to shame.

Furthermore, this entire underwater universe seemed to glow with the landscape and lifeforms reflecting each other’s magical luminosity. The maritime ceiling shimmered up above, dancing with light rays that couldn’t have come from the stars or the moon. Collei wouldn’t have realized it was nighttime up there. Her eyes darted every which way, scavenging the sights this loving prism realm had to offer. It almost felt like Fontaine itself offered its oceans specifically for her viewing. Her racing heart leaked with unspoken gratitude.

Wow, she mouthed.

Beside her, and still clasping her hands, Freminet followed her gaze. When she looked at him, he smiled at her. His small movements were completely in tune with the ocean’s. His suit’s icy outlines shone like a nightlight. His pale hair slithered like a flame in slow motion. His freckles twinkled like the stars that could no longer be seen from here.

Many things in Teyvat defied possibility. For example, during that brief instant, he looked more ethereal than the entire ocean around them.

She didn't know how long she spent hypnotized, but she snapped back to reality when Freminet let go of her. Collei almost grabbed his hands again, but she realized he wanted her to get familiar with moving underwater. So Collei swung her arms and legs in numerous ways, studying the effects her motions had on the rest of her body. The water felt heavy, and she could no longer rely on the laws of physics above the surface. She had to get used to the fact that nothing solid existed under her feet. Swimming around for as long as she pleased had this oddity that Collei didn’t know how to explain.

But over the next minute, that oddity turned into liberation. She wasn’t swimming. She was flying. In the boundless, mystical world beneath the surface, Collei could fly. The breathless expression that imprisoned her face gave way for her lips to form a true smile.

She took flight, kicking her legs to propel herself forward. The sandy trails and grassy plains swam along beneath her. She guided her trajectory with both hands, swimming as if she’d been a diver her whole life. She became one with the water, flipping around and twirling as if in a waltz with the sea. The folds of her dress spun and bobbed like flower petals in the springtime gales. So too did the strands of her hair sway like leaves on a tree. Unable to contain her laughter, Collei endlessly pirouetted upside down, and then right side up, watching the unreal fantasyland turn on its axis again and again. The whole time, she breathed in and out like she’d been doing her whole life—no, like she’d just been born anew.

While taking a break to relax, she noticed Freminet swimming this way. There was so much she wanted to say that she struggled with forming the sentences in her throat. It might be useless to try and say anything coherent at all. Besides, could he hear her through the water?

He stopped in front of her with something in his hands. With timid confidence, he offered it to her. When Collei realized what it was, the incomplete sentences in her throat dissolved. She took the Romaritime Flower and stared at it. She touched the tender, elastic petals of azure and lavender. She studied the way it glowed like a deep-sea lantern. It was sacred. She didn’t know what to do with it. She didn’t know what this did to her.

Collei looked up at Freminet’s periwinkle irises, doing her best to show him the effects his gesture had on her. However, the smile on his face told her that he already understood her emotions.

Her heart couldn’t take this.

She kicked her legs and threw herself against his body. She wrapped her arms around him as they spun slowly through the maritime atmosphere, not daring to let go. He did the same with a bubbly chuckle. Collei melted inside his embrace and sank further, burying her face against his shoulder. The coolness of the water left her skin. The more her feelings swirled, the tighter she held him. If she let go, she might explode. Luckily, Freminet wasn’t eager to end this embrace anytime soon, so they stayed like that for a while. The Forest Ranger trainee and diver floated above the aquamarine dream world, surrounded by seagrass forests and opalescent creatures radiant with moonshine. They let themselves freeze over in the bliss of the eternal blue.

Maybe Collei shed a tear or two, but she’d never know.

 

❆❆❆

 

Freminet didn’t know what else to do when the dive concluded. After resurfacing, he simply found a spot on the grass and lay there. Collei joined him without a word. Just like that, the pair ended up stargazing in silence. A decision made not with the conscious mind, but with the unconscious, ever-blooming closeness between two souls. And with the exception of a faraway fishing boat, the two sat alone with nothing to disturb them.

Like on the Aquabus ride, Freminet appreciated the silence. All the awkwardness that stood between them on the first day had washed away. All the nervousness that followed them at the start of the date had evaporated into the wind. Staring at the hidden constellations breaking through the darkness brought all the fulfillment he needed. 

“I don’t want this to end,” Collei muttered shyly.

“Me neither,” Freminet replied, “but Father wants us to return by midnight.”

“Aw.”

“At least we still have some time. We’ll go when our clothes are dry.”

They both watched the night sky for a while longer. Crickets and other little critters chattered around them, accompanied by the sounds of the ocean kissing the sandy shore nearby. Followed by a rustle of clothes right beside Freminet. He turned to see Collei lying on her side, facing him directly. Somehow, the drenched strands of hair cascading over her face made her more enchanting.

“No one’s ever shown me something like that before,” she said, almost inaudibly. “Thank you . . .”

Frreminet accomplished his goal ten times over during that dive. They conquered the ocean floor and got lost in the wonderland together. They even hitched a ride on a powerful current that took them to newer sceneries with newer wonders. He’d seen all of it before, though—the real beauty was Collei. More specifically, that look in her eyes. It was something new for once. Something heavenly. It was more worthwhile than the sights along the seafloor.

She looked away. “I lost the Romaritime Flower you gave me.”

“It’s okay. There’s a hundred of them down there.”

“Hehe . . . are you gonna give me all of them?”

“Yes.”

Collei grinned and tried to hide her face in her neck. Next, she sat up straight to see the surrounding environment. Freminet watched her eyes, and she seemed to be comparing the landscape above the surface to the landscape below.

“I won’t get to see it when I go back home,” she sighed. “I can’t breathe underwater in Sumeru. And there’s nothing at the bottom of the sea. Nothing I know of, at least”

Freminet sat up as well. “You’re right. But that’s what makes this more special. That’s how it usually is for things you like but can’t always have.”

He paused, and Collei looked at him.

“Like you,” they both said at the same time. Followed by giggling and embarrassment.

When Collei collected herself, she stared at the snowy reflection of the moon. “I can’t believe this . . . I can’t believe I have someone like you. You’re always kind to me. You’re smart and super interesting. You’re just like me, so it’s so easy for me to relate to you. You’re funny without trying . . . And you’re so understanding. I don’t have to feel ashamed around you. I don’t care at all that you’re part of the Fatui. You’re always trying to make sure I’m comfortable, right?”

She clearly didn’t realize what this meant to Freminet. Hearing everything good about him in her eyes, every reason she liked him, stirred his heart and all his internal organs.

“And this date, you’re going out of your way to make it as special as possible for me,” she went on. She sighed through her nose. “I’m sorry for rambling. But you made me feel like the most important person in the world tonight.”

Freminet rested his cheek on his knees. “You know what I’m gonna say to that, right?”

“Yes, you cornball.”

“Mhm,” he said with a blush.

She studied him with a deep violet longing, which didn’t help his reddening cheeks.

“I don’t want to leave the sea behind,” she said. “I don’t want to leave you behind.”

“But Sumeru is your home. I can’t keep you here forever.”

“I know, but still . . .”

At that moment, the gears of the universe shifted. A sudden spark of resolve lit up within Freminet. Collei had already begun to fear the end of their time together. But he wouldn’t let that ruin anything.

“If we can only spend so much time together, then let’s make the most of it,” he uttered.

Collei opened her mouth but said nothing. She looked him up and down, like she wanted to ask what he meant by that. Ultimately, she closed her mouth. Freminet felt bold enough to assume she had an idea of what was going to happen. But was he bold enough to go through with it?

No, he couldn’t think about that. It was now or never. He had to follow through on his own advice. This was his turning point, both as a partner and as a person. 

Do it, he commanded himself.

“Collei,” he muttered. He needed to be absolutely sure he had her consent.

“Yeah?”

“Can I kiss you?”

That earned a soft gasp. Freminet observed her reaction, as painful as it was to look her in the eye after saying that. He saw surprise, followed by what could have been either fear or excitement. For once, her face was unreadable. She didn’t say anything. She neither nodded nor shook her head.

But then she scooted closer, and that gave him his answer.

Freminet swallowed his anxiety before it could form. Even one moment of hesitation could throw off his momentum, and he did not intend to let that happen. This was his girlfriend, for gods’ sakes—sooner or later, this was going to be a normal thing. He told himself that over and over as he inched closer.

He stopped when their shoulders touched. Now, her face filled most of his vision. For a moment, Freminet wanted to do nothing and just look at those curious, nervous eyes. That damp, messy hair. Her delicate, pale skin. Her lips. Hell, she hypnotized him just by being this close—Freminet’s thoughts began to leave one by one as he absorbed the sight, as well as her faint lavender fragrance overtaken by the ocean. The chilling warmth of her anxious breaths on his face made him dizzy.

Do it, Freminet Snezhevich.

The voice in his head took him back to reality. In the end, he listened.

One by one, Freminet purged all the worries fluttering in his brain, and the Crystalflies fluttering in his stomach. He placed his hand on her cheek and brushed some hair out of the way. He focused on the tenderness of her face. Then, she closed her eyes and leaned into his hand. She offered herself completely, activating a surge of motivation in his veins.

He moved in, eyelids falling. His nose grazed hers as they traded breaths. His hair grazed hers as her body heat washed over him.

His lips grazed hers. Freminet stopped.

No . . . it was too late.

He committed himself and closed the distance to the unimaginable softness and taste and heat that drove his bones mad and made the universe implode before quickly pulling away after just one half-second.

 

❀❀❀

 

What must have been a short peck on the lips felt like eternity to Collei.

She stayed calm. For someone having a heart attack, that is. On the outside, she’d frozen herself still. On the inside, everything was on fire. She couldn’t believe she let him do that! Every muscle in her body begged to be free from her control, and the blood zipping through her arteries ordered her to freak out. Yet she stayed in place, closed her eyes, and gave herself to him.

In contrast to these sensations, the heart-smashing sensation of his mouth against hers almost made her go limp. And then it was over. The universe gave her back her breaths, which she didn’t even notice had been stolen. It took a bit longer to register the feeling of falling out of heaven when Freminet pulled away.

She had to manually regain control of her body. She opened her eyes, only to be met with the reddest face she’d ever seen. Even in the dark of night, his blush looked radioactive. By some miracle, that helped her regain her sanity. She opened her mouth to say something . . . eventually.

“I, um, just figured it was better to be safe than sorry,” Freminet stammered, eyeing the ground between them. “I want this to be something you’ll remember . . .”

Collei moved her lips to speak, but she forgot her voice.

“I’m really happy we get to do this,” he continued. He must have been trying to direct his excess feelings and energy into words. How ironic. “Every time we talk, and every time we’re together, I . . . I feel like I have a genuine purpose. I feel seen, and not lonely. You make me feel like it’s okay to be me.”

Collei clenched her fists. She quickly gave up on words.

Her reaction to what just happened, and everything she wanted to tell him—none of that could be contained by words anyway. There was only one way to communicate.

This time, she was the one who closed her eyes and leaned in. She didn’t want to let him finish speaking.

 

❆❆❆

 

Freminet only got to close his eyes for a micro-instant before Collei pulled away.

Being on the receiving end of the kiss obliterated him ten times more than taking the initiative. The Crystalflies in his stomach detonated, and he fell into a weird state between dying and having a seizure. When their lips separated once more, everything froze again.

Collei looked as shocked as he did. At the same time, she looked lost. On another plane of existence, even. And then, with the quietest squeal that could pack a dozen emotions, she collapsed into him and buried her face in his chest. Freminet kept himself upright at first, but he decided to fall back onto the grass. She clung to him while he tried to regain composure. He wanted to apologize for battering her face with his beating heart, but he also didn’t want her to move. Actually, this feeling managed to help him collect himself over time. His breathing steadied, and his heartbeat calmed down—only a little.

Eventually, Collei lifted her head and spun around. She lay on her back next to Freminet like before. They found themselves back where they started as they let the moment settle in. Freminet knew her well enough to see her feelings were an identical reflection of his own. Therefore, given their personalities, their actions tonight became all the more monumental. Now, what was there to say? What could he say that would complete this night and not destroy it? Did he even need to worry about that?

After some time, Collei giggled through silent breaths. Hearing this, Freminet managed a small chuckle, through which his relief escaped into the breeze. Maybe he didn’t need to say anything after all. He and Collei let whatever the hell just happened resolve itself through wordless connection and understanding. Just like most of this date.

They went back to stargazing, and . . .

. . . No.

Freminet wanted more.

A restless feeling built on both passion and affection took over. He rolled over towards Collei and gently cupped her cheek, turning her head so she’d look at him. Her eyes widened, but she immediately readied herself. Then, he kissed her once more. Longer this time. She lightly squeezed his hand, clinging to it the way her lips clung to his. The universe imploded and his bones went mad again, but he handled it better this time.

How greedy of you, Freminet Snezhevich.

Notes:

This chapter alone is half the reason why I wanted to write this fic at all <3

I probably overdid the kiss scene but idc lol hope you all had fun

Chapter 7: L’absence rend le coeur plus affectueux

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Collei woke up in her hotel room made golden by the sun.

After rubbing her eyes, she stared at the empty ceiling and listened to the stillness. She couldn’t hear Tighnari or Cyno, which meant the two went out early. They’d probably bring her breakfast in a few minutes. She hoped for a croissant or brioche.

Her thoughts wandered backwards, and she remembered what happened last night. She remembered Freminet taking her out for their date, Lyney and Lynette’s magic show, a quick dinner, that deep-sea dive followed by stargazing, the kiss, the awkward walk home . . .

The kiss . . .

Collei quickly snatched a pillow to muffle her squeal. She rolled over and repeatedly kicked the bed while hugging the pillow to death. Her face burned. She would’ve been worried about setting the hotel room on fire, but how could she hope to think straight right now?

Fortunately, she stopped squirming before she could fall off the bed. She stared at the floor, and messy green strands reached for the crimson carpet. For a moment, she wondered if it had all been a dream. Did she hit her head and black out beforehand? Had she just woken up from a false reality?

No. Everything was real. How warm he was, how soft he was. And the way he held her cheek, moving her head so he could kiss her the third time. Once again, she heated up. Her blushes and beating heart and boyfriend took away her composure.

This time, she fell off the bed and hit the carpet with a heavy thud.

That happened to be the moment Tighnari and Cyno arrived. After unlocking the door, their chatter filled the silence and drew closer.

“Collei?” Tighnari called. He found her lying with her back on the carpet floor and legs raised against the bed. “Um, are you alright?”

Collei nodded at the ceiling. “I just woke up,” she said groggily.

Tighnari kneeled next to her, holding a croissant that looked like actual gold. “Breakfast?”

Collei nodded again. She picked herself up and sat against the bed. When she took the croissant and bit into it, she almost fell back asleep.

“We don’t really have a plan for today,” Tighnari explained, staring out the window. “Lady Furina, Chevreuse, and Chiori are currently busy with the Fontinalia Film Festival. I think the Traveler and Paimon are helping them.”

“And I’m getting a cameo appearance in their film,” Cyno mentioned from the other side of the room. “I’ll star as the Chief of Police. Quite fitting, no?”

“I’m surprised you’re not just playing Cyno the Adventurer,” Tighnari quipped.

“I am. My role is Chief ‘the Adventurer.’”

“Wouldn’t the be your middle name?”

Collei giggled. “What’s everyone else doing?”

Tighnari kept watching the waking city outside. “Cyno and I plan to do some wilderness exploration. I want to observe Fontaine’s biology. As for our other vacation-mates, I believe some of them joined the other film crews.”

Cyno walked over, brioche in hand. “They’ll all be busy, so we most likely won’t have a coordinated schedule for the next few days. We can do whatever during that time.”

“You should try diving,” Collei said with a mouthful of croissant.

“That’s a good idea.”

Tighnari turned away from the window. “I’m sure the General Tunamatra will enjoy that very much.”

Cyno looked crushed at his joke being stolen.

“What will you do today, Collei?” Tighnari asked. “Will you come with us or enjoy your independence?”

Collei shrugged. “I think I want to explore the city more.”

Freminet said he would be busy today, but Collei didn’t mind. She needed some time before she could face the boy she kissed so shamelessly last night.

 

❆❆❆

 

Freminet would be too busy today to see Collei, but he didn’t mind. He needed some time before he could face the girl he kissed so recklessly last night.

Father ordered him to help her deliver orders and documents to his brothers and sisters throughout Fontaine. A tame but high-priority mission. Freminet set off with her at morning, splitting up to reach more House of the Hearth members.

Along the way, he spotted familiar Fontainian and Sumerian faces. First, not even half an hour after leaving Hotel Bouffes d’ete, he stumbled upon a film crew in a street packing up and dispersing. Among these faces, he spotted red hair, cyan eyes, and a fancy dress that stood out.

It was Nilou. She must’ve been acting in one of the upcoming film festival movies. Freminet overhead the title—White Swan.

He walked by the members of the film crew, wondering if he should say hi to her. After watching Nilou speak with the director, Freminet decided not to. What would they talk about? They didn’t know each other well, and he didn’t have anything worth approaching her to talk about.

After delivering Father’s orders to some undercover operatives casually having coffee, Freminet quickly left for his next destination. This time, he stumbled upon another film crew whose members streamed out of a restaurant. He knew this film—Bames Jond. Many looked forward to watching it at the festival.

Interestingly, Kaveh was at this centre of the group. As he walked, he showcased his suitcase to the producers. That was when Freminet learned Mehrak had the ability to float. Since when was that possible? He thought Mehrak was a normal suitcase the whole time.

Kaveh spotted Freminet and waved. Freminet waved back then hightailed it out of there. The last thing he wanted to do was distract Kaveh from an important conversation with important people.

Freminet’s next destination was the Fleuve Cendre region. As he moved through the sewers like a tranquil breeze, faint childhood memories rang in distant echoes. He tried not to think about it, for he had a mission to fulfill. After finding a silent, intimidating Fatui agent and giving him Father’s orders, Freminet left right away. In the distance, people crowded around what looked like a crime scene, stealing his attention for an instant.

Because of that, he nearly bumped into two women.

“Sorry,” Freminet muttered, sparing them the shortest of glances. One of them was a short-haired woman clad in a serene mix of green and black. The other was a long-haired woman dressed in a chef’s outfit resembling sweet treats. Freminet had heard of both figures.

“Hey,” the first woman called, fixing her glasses. “Aren’t you Freminet the diver?”

Freminet nodded and slipped past her like a fish. He fled the scenery like the Gardes were on his heels, stopping the woman from getting another word in.

“Do you know him, Emilie?” he heard the second woman ask.

“Not really, but Chevreuse has mentioned him a few times. Good diver. Works alone, though.”

“Sounds interesting.”

“Now, Escoffier, let’s get back to the crime scene . . .”

When Freminet left Fleuve Cendre, he thought about all three near-encounters with important people. How silly. He internally made a big deal out of changing his ways during his date, yet he didn’t speak to Nilou, Kaveh, Emilie, or Escoffier. He didn’t even look them in the eye for more than half a second. While he didn’t have to go out of his way to say hi, he probably should have. Things hadn’t changed at all.

Oh well. Collei was only the start of his social journey.

 

❀❀❀

 

Collei spent the morning in her hotel room. She did a bit of sewing and wrote in her notepad. Then, she ate some pita pockets she packed for lunch.

In the afternoon, she went out and explored the city by herself. She checked out famous establishments and tourist attractions. She even pet an overly excited and overdressed dog. After a while, she found herself craving more of the wilderness. Magical as the city was, she yearned for the slightly different magic cast by nature.

When those massive grey walls no longer contained her, she took a stroll along the shoreline. The ocean breeze negated the heat of the afternoon sun. She encountered a lazy family of Blubberbeasts, followed by a respectful troupe of armoured crabs, followed by two cheerful Melusines she barely resisted the urge to hug.

Collei walked far enough that the walls of the city shrank into a distant monument. The whole time, she journeyed beaches and coastlines for their dual sceneries. She decided to wander further inland. How different were the forests of Fontaine compared to Sumeru’s?

Right when she found a sizeable forest, a striking figure beside a tree caught her eye. A figure of black and white whose identity she couldn’t mistake.

She stopped in her tracks and fought the urge to run for her life.

The Knave?

As if her thoughts were heard, the Harbinger turned in her direction. Even from this distance, Collei shivered under the dominion of that crimson gaze.

Arlecchino neither spoke nor emoted, but something about her aura invited Collei over. Fearing a nonexistent punishment for refusing, Collei gulped and approached. She stopped when she could see the X-shaped pupils.

“How unexpected,” Arlecchino said. “What brings you here?”

Collei fidgeted with her outfit. “I wanted to go for a walk . . .”

Arlecchino nodded before facing the tree next to her. “I’m observing wild insects.”

“Huh?”

“Come see for yourself.”

After five seconds of contemplation, Collei convinced herself that this aura wouldn’t crush her to death. She stood next to Arlecchino, who pointed at something on the tree trunk.

“Do you see it?” Arlecchino murmured. “Two beetles fighting. My guess is they are competing for food or a mate.”

Collei observed two fierce-looking beetles clashing with their large horns. “Uh-huh.” She didn’t know whether to be invested or not.

“It’s a hobby of mine. The dynamics between these tiny creatures are fascinating. I enjoy watching their short-lived power struggles and seeing who comes out on top.” Arlecchino pointed a dark finger at the bigger beetle. “This one is substantially stronger. Its attacks carry more power. You would think it can win, right?”

Before nodding, Collei watched for five more seconds. In an unexpected twist, the smaller beetle flung the larger one off the tree trunk. Collei stepped back as the once-mighty titan fell to the soil.

“This one, on the other hand, carries more determination. That allowed it to find a way to outsmart its foe.” Arlecchino then looked at Collei, who did her best to maintain eye contact. “Your determination allowed you to overcome your reticence when you kissed Freminet last night.”

Collei melted inside. Everyone knew about it. Everyone.

Moreover, how did the Knave connect bugs fighting to that, of all topics?

“You help each other conquer your inner battles. That is why I hope you two make the most of your vacation,” Arlecchino concluded.

Collei took a deep breath to calm down. Next, she asked something she wanted to bring up since meeting the Knave: “Why did you let Freminet date me? I thought you’d be really strict about things like that.”

“Because Freminet is more than his mission. He is more than a Fatuus. He is still a child, and he is my child. I want to give him a chance at normality even for things like romance. A long-distance relationship with you is the safest way he can experience that.”

This response surprised Collei. Maybe it shouldn’t have. Above being a Fatui Harbinger, the Knave was still a “father.”

Then, something even more shocking took place—Arlecchino’s lips curled into a gentle smile. They were no longer the colour of blood, but the colour of hearts. Collei didn’t want it to disappear.

“On top of that,” Arlecchino added, “the more people Freminet has to fight for, the stronger he grows.”

The Fatui . . . what a complicated organization.

 

❆❆❆

 

Freminet’s last destination for the day was Poisson. Some Fatui lingered there after helping its residents and the Spina di Rosula after the flood.

He hitched a ride on a boat to the island of Mount Automnequi. Then, he slipped into Poisson, found his elder adoptive siblings, gave them the desired documents, and slipped out. Now that Freminet accomplished his mission, he was free for the rest of the afternoon. He wanted to return not by boat this time, but under the sea. The only reason he didn’t swim to Poisson was so the documents wouldn’t get soaked.

Freminet approached the shoreline of the island, noticing a pair of crabs scuttling by the water. He wondered what they were up to. A search for food, perhaps? Or a quick outing?

Before he could answer himself, he spotted two figures up ahead. He quickly identified them as Tighnari and Cyno based on their pointy ears alone. The General Mahamatra and Forest Watcher crouched around a small patch of Lumidouce Bells. When they spotted Freminet, they waved.

He walked over, feeling more comfortable with them as Collei’s closest companions. And overall, they were very nice guys.

“How is it going, young man?” Cyno asked, standing up.

“Things are fine,” Freminet replied. “How are you two?”

“We’re studying Fontaine’s biological specimens. Mind if we take home a couple of Lumidouce Bells?”

“I don’t own the Lumidouce Bells . . .”

Tighnari stood up, packing some of the flowers in his bag. “Thank you for taking Collei out last night. I could tell she still thought about it this morning.”

Freminet stared at the grass. “It was my pleasure.”

“I wasn’t expecting you to kiss her. Well done.”

Furious flames filled Freminet’s face.

“They’ve been dating since long before this vacation,” Cyno told Tighnari. “If you ask me, a kiss was long overdue.”

“It just felt right,” Freminet mumbled.

“Space and time do that a lot,” Tighnari mentioned. “Sometimes, the moment presents itself and invites you to take it. And take it you did—both of you.”

Cyno nodded. “Not only have you made Collei happy all this time, but she will certainly become a better person because of you. Do you hope this relationship will persist?”

Now that Cyno brought it up, Freminet realized he hadn’t actually considered a long-term relationship with Collei. They exchanged long-distance confessions, and things escalated from there. There was never a concrete plan for the future.

However, their night of wonder didn’t deserve to be a one-time thing.

“I hope so,” Freminet replied, looking up with hope. “We’ll see where it goes.”

Both Cyno and Tighnari nodded in approval.

Suddenly, water splashed in the sea behind them. Freminet peeked past Tighnari’s tail to see what was responsible.

Two human heads had surfaced from the water. One with straight, snowy hair, and one with more fiery hair. One with azure eyes, and one with amber eyes. They eyed the trio, and the trio eyed them.

“Hello!” one of the heads said. “I’m Yoimiya! And this”—she gestured to the other head—“is Kamisato Ayaka.”

Ayaka did her best to bow while treading water.

Tighnari waved hello. “I am Tighnari.”

Cyno stood tall and proud. “Cyno . . . the Adventurer.”

Freminet nodded. “Freminet.”

“The Traveler briefly talked about you two. You’re helping with The Two Musketeers, yes?” Tighnari asked.

“We are!” Yoimiya exclaimed, nearly jumping out of the sea like a fish. “We’re still producing the film, but Ayaka and I are on a diving break.”

“Diving is wonderful,” Ayaka said softly. “We’ve done it before, and we wanted to do it again.”

“Yoimiya and Ayaka,” Cyno repeated. “You’re Inazumans on vacation, correct?”

“You could say that.”

“So are Tighnari and I. Fellow tourists, it’s nice to meet you.”

Yoimiya laughed like sunshine. “I would come up there and get acquainted, but I don’t want to leave the water . . .”

“By all means, keep diving. We will do so another day,” Tighnari said.

Freminet observed the bright expressions on both wet faces. For an instant, scenes of Collei’s awestruck face replayed in his brain. It was the expression she made after opening her eyes underwater for the first time.

Diving had been his escape and his alone. The ocean, a gift he kept to himself. But on that night, he gave it to his girlfriend. He took a huge leap of faith that night, and he liked it. He regretted nothing.

Surely Collei wouldn’t mind if he shared this gift with other people. She might be proud.

Freminet slowly approached the water’s edge then crouched down. Ayaka and Yoimiya looked at him expectantly. He smiled as best as he could.

Then, the diver who had always been alone underwater said, “If you like the scenery, I know some good places. Would you like me to show you?” 

Ayaka beamed in response. “That would be lovely.”

Chapter 8: Of films and families

❀❀❀

 

The Fontinalia Film Festival became a much bigger event than everyone predicted. People’s excitement doubled as a result.

The Sumerians came together once again at the venue. Today was the first day of film premieres, and everybody wanted to watch. Upon arriving, they quickly got to chatting with their Fontainian friends. Collei, Tighnari, and Cyno stuck together. The House of the Hearth trio came up to them. The magicians tipped their top hats, and Freminet tipped his beret.

The first thing Collei focused on was Freminet’s lips. She pinched herself and snapped out of the sudden daydream.

“Good morning,” Lyney sang. “We were originally going to be busy today, but Father took care of everything beforehand.”

“Lucky you,” Tighnari remarked. “Looking forward to any movies?”

“The Meropide Redemption looks like it’ll be a hidden gem. All of them look pretty good, though.”

Then, Lyney nudged his sister. Lynette shrugged and said, “Nothing in particular.”

“Come on, tell us. Which one stands out to you?”

“I said nothing in particular.”

“Say, I saw you paying special attention to a poster of The Lion Queen earlier—”

“Entering Standby Mode.”

“Hey!”

Collei stifled a laugh even though she could relate to Lynette.

Freminet raised his hand. “I’m looking forward to that one hand-drawn film, Spirited Here.”

“It looks like a living fairy tale,” Lyney added, to which Freminet nodded. “I can see why you’d be interested.”

“I like that one too,” Collei joined in.

Freminet’s eyes glistened. “Let’s watch it together.”

Collei nodded so fast that her smile nearly fell off her face. She wanted to say more, but when she noticed the other four eyeing them, she shut up and looked away.

Cyno cleared his throat. “The Darknight Hero is my pick. I think it was based on a Mondstadt urban legend?”

“It was,” Tighnari confirmed. “Me, I want to see The Two Musketeers. Lady Furina herself is the director, and the Traveler and Paimon are helping out. Not to mention Chevreuse and Chiori. It’s an impressive film crew if you think about it.”

“Don’t forget Ayaka and Yoimiya,” Freminet added quietly. “The visitors from Inazuma.”

“Right.”

Charlotte suddenly called out to the group of six, who turned in her direction. The energy here skyrocketed with her presence.

“Hello!” Charlotte panted, wiping sweat from her forehead.

“Have you been running around taking pictures?” asked an amused Lyney.

“Yup! Want me to take yours as well?”

“If it doesn’t bother you, then sure.”

He, Lynette, Freminet, Collei, Tighnari, and Cyno promptly stood in position for a group photo. Charlotte took three. When the photographs finished printing, she gave one to Tighnari and another to Lyney. She kept the third for herself.

“I think they turned out great!” Charlotte patted her trusty Kamera. “Monsieur Verite thanks you for your service.”

Lyney tilted his head. “But you were the one who took our photo for us—”

Without a second thought, Charlotte dashed away. She approached Kaveh and Alhaitham to probably snap photos of them as well.

Collei studied the photo in Tighnari’s hand. She studied Lyney’s charismatic pose, the way he touched the brim of his hat and stuck his tongue out. She studied Lynette’s stiff pose, the way she attacked the Kamera with the most deadpan stare. She studied Tighnari’s relaxed pose, the way he folded his arms and looked completely at ease. She studied Cyno’s sharp pose, the way he held some random Genius Invokation TCG card between his fingers. She studied Freminet’s passive pose, the way his body seemed to sink into his outfit. She studied her own carefree pose, the way her body and face reflected the joy in her heart at that moment.

Tighnari noticed her staring. He said, “In my opinion, no amount of Mora can be assigned to a photo like this.”

“I agree, Master Tighnari.”

 

❀❀❀

 

Collei and Freminet wandered through the venue for some time, checking out stands and booths for all kinds of souvenirs. They never actually bought anything. To Collei, photographs were good enough. Freminet probably felt the same.

They talked much more than they did before the date. Of course, long moments of silence still slipped between their conversations, but none of it felt nearly as awkward as before. Still, neither brought up the kiss . . . even though it clearly hadn’t left either of their minds.

At some point, Freminet left for a bathroom break. In the meantime, Collei went to get a snack. She strolled around the festival venue and found a nice-looking food booth. She bought some of those Feast-O’s that Chevreuse liked eating. Greasy and unhealthy as they were, Collei got addicted to the crispy and savoury flavour.

On her way back, she saw Tighnari and Cyno in the distance. They stood in a shadowy corner with a tall figure Collei learned to recognize—the ever-creepy Knave. Collei didn’t want to disturb them, but she couldn’t bury her curiosity. She went in their direction then stood behind a nearby tree to eavesdrop.

“If you still do not trust me, I understand,” Arlecchino told the two. “There is nothing I can do about my occupation and reputation. However, I am content that both of you were willing to work with me these past few days.”

Cyno shrugged. “We presently don’t have any reason to antagonize you. Doing so would be counterproductive, seeing as you aren’t doing anything to endanger our vacation.”

Tighnari sipped on a bottle of Fonta. “We may not entirely agree with the actions of the Fatui, but this is the one occasion we are willing to collaborate.”

Arlecchino closed her eyes. “It’s a shame our in-person collaboration will end soon.”

“Don’t think that way. We can keep in touch, remember? We’ll certainly have more opportunities to team up.”

“You’re right. When Collei and Freminet get the chance to reunite, let us give them more moments worth remembering.”

Collei sighed in relief. For a second, she thought they were talking about shady dealings behind everyone’s backs.

Cyno, satisfied, folded his arms. “You may be a Harbinger, Tighnari may be a Forest Watcher, and I may be the General Mahamatra, but who says we can’t to work together as co-families to ensure the everlasting bonds of those we care for?”

“Co-families,” Tighnari repeated. “You see yourself, me, and Collei as a family?”

“In some aspects, I see us as friends. In others, I see us as comrades. But elements of family are certainly present in both.”

“Dynamics of family, too,” Arlecchino mentioned. Cyno smirked and Tighnari scoffed. Then Arlecchino added, “The House of the Hearth is not like traditional families in the slightest. Even so, family is how we refer to ourselves. We pay no mind to standard labels.”

“You’re a complicated family, but a family nonetheless,” Tighnari said. “Your children are your biggest priority.”

“If I have to choose between the Tsaritsa and my children, I will draw my scythe against Her Majesty with no hesitation.”

“Bold yet understandable.”

Arlecchino paused to think. “If you stretch it far enough, we are already one big family.”

“Heh. Maybe.”

Cyno raised an eyebrow. “The way I hear it, you’re implying that Collei and Freminet will solidify their relationship at an altar. Your statement would be legally correct.”

Collei almost choked on her Feast-O’s.

“True,” Arlecchino replied.

“But you probably can’t allow that,” Tighnari guessed, scratching his ear. “When it comes to an organization like the House of the Hearth, I doubt you’ll let Freminet have that kind of freedom. For confidential and safety purposes.”

“No, Freminet can do that if he wants.”

“Really?”

Collei didn’t expect that either!

“However, it will be difficult to live that way as a child of the House of the Hearth, so he can leave if he wishes. In fact, all of my children can. Should they wish to live new lives, then who am I to stop them? The question is, are they willing to pay the price?”

Ominous. Words worthy of shivers.

“Price, huh?” Cyno repeated. “I guess leaving isn’t as simple as it sounds for an organization so secretive.”

“Unfortunately for you, I will not go into detail.”

“Very well.”

“If you were forcibly keeping your children, this conversation might’ve gone in a different direction,” Tighnari explained. “Seeing as you value your children enough to help set up a date for one of them, I am not worried.”

With a nod, Arlecchino replied, “If Freminet wishes to tie the crimson knot with Collei, so be it. I shall attend the ceremony from the shadows.”

With her brain now melted, Collei quietly fled the scene. How were they talking so casually about something so crazy?

Master Tighnari, Mr. Cyno, Miss Knave . . . you’re all crazy!

 

❆❆❆

 

The sheer number of film submissions matched the festival’s grand scale. Some films played concurrently in different places. Some films played more than once.

Freminet and Collei didn’t know if they could watch them all. They agreed to prioritize screenings for the movies that interested them most. Some lasted only a few minutes. Others, over an hour. Each had its own unique flavour, like dishes from every nation in Teyvat. For every screening, different members of the Sumerian-Fontainian vacation group accompanied Freminet and Collei.

On the first day of screenings, they watched four films.

Spirited Here was their first and favourite. The gorgeous hand-drawn animation boasted a magical touch no other film had. Spectacular artwork, rich worldbuilding, and a touching story quickly made their way into both hearts. Freminet only complained about the runtime—twenty minutes was hardly enough for such a masterpiece. Though, he understood why a longer film of this quality wouldn’t have been feasible.

The Two Musketeers was probably the overall fan favourite. It told a compelling story about justice, the nature of which befitting everything Fontaine as a nation stood for. The two leads, Iris and Tulipe, were played by Ayaka and Chevreuse respectively. Freminet remembered diving with Ayaka and Yoimiya not too long ago. Being a temporary diver guide mentally drained him, but they loved the underwater sights he showed them. It was worthwhile in the end.

The Darknight Hero was an action-packed treat that had Freminet on the edge of his seat. The way every scene was filmed, it looked like a comic book come to life. At the same time, the film still managed to keep a dark and gritty tone that kept everyone invested.

The Lion Queen was a stop-motion film similar in nature to Spirited Here but different in execution. First of all, the story was told through cute clay figures and puppets rather than drawings. Despite its whimsical setup, the movie grew into a poignant roller coaster of emotions that had Collei on the verge of tears. Like Spirited Here, though, it should have been longer.

On the second day of screenings, they watched three films.

The Meropide Redemption seemed really heavy at first, but it ended up being one of the most powerful and optimistic stories ever told. This film had everything—great characters, great setting, great plot, and great message. Freminet was not prepared for it to be so good.

Bames Jond, on the other hand, might have been the most fun. It was an action-thriller that didn’t take itself as seriously as The Darknight Hero did. It may have been a simple movie that lacked the complexity of others, but all that mattered was that the moviegoers had fun.

The Godmother was a different breed of film. One, it featured Navia, Clorinde, Dehya, and Candace, all of whom looked excellent. While they clearly didn’t have much acting experience, their passion more than made up for it. Two, the creative minds behind this film crafted such a complex work of art. The shots, the dialogue, the characters’ decisions and actions—everything served a meaningful purpose. Whether or not it surpassed other movies was up for debate, but it seemed the most likely to remain timeless.

Freminet wanted to watched another film like maybe Zoolandeur or The Guhua Kid, but finishing three movies, each over an hour long, took plenty out of him. Collei looked ready to go for ten more, but she understood. They agreed to recharge and meet the next day.

Frankly, these movie marathons felt like dates.

Now came the third day of screenings. They came in the evening to see White Swan, the movie Freminet once saw Nilou acting for. The festival staff set up an outdoor theatre just outside the city. It made for a unique experience under the setting sun and coming stars. Freminet and Collei found a place on the grass near the back, where they put a picnic blanket to sit on. They brought snacks, as well as Pers and Cuilein-Anbar. The rough terrain did poke through the thin blanket, but everything else was fine.

Interestingly, the people sitting on their right were none other than the Chief Justice, Duke of the Fortress of Meropide, and Head Nurse of the Fortress of Meropide. Freminet almost laughed at the idea of Monsieur Neuvillette joining an outdoor watch party.

The film began, and Freminet honestly didn’t know what to think. White Swan was a slow-paced journey of ambition and perseverance. It looked cutesy and innocent on the outside but seemed to hide a mature undertone. Nilou, who starred in the film, mentioned that it was actually supposed to be a psychological horror. The director changed it into something a wider audience could enjoy. The crew did express interest in a darker spin-off, though.

Freminet occasionally glanced at Collei next to him. She held Cuilein-Anbar in her lap and watched in eager silence. But every now and then, her eyelids hung low, and her body swayed like a pendulum. At first, he didn’t think much of it.

Then right as the movie reached the climax, she collapsed into him.

Startled, Freminet held her shoulders to make sure she didn’t hit the blanket. When he took a closer look at her face, he realized she was gone. Her fallen eyelids and steady breaths were that of a child in deep slumber.

He glanced back at the film, which showed Nilou acting her heart out. He thought about waking Collei up so she wouldn’t miss anything. He started to shake her gently, only to stop. She probably spent so much energy during her vacation without realizing. Watching several films in a row must’ve been the cherry on top.

After some thought, Freminet chose to let Collei sleep. He scooted closer so her head could rest on his shoulder. And he, in turn, rested his head on hers and kept an arm around her shoulders. Her body remained still and peaceful. He absorbed her comfortable warmth and tender scent. They stayed like this for the rest of the film’s climax. So too did Cuilein-Anbar stay in Collei’s lap while Pers stayed in Freminet’s.

A powerful sense of protectiveness filled his every vein. He couldn’t explain why. He simply knew if Collei needed to sleep, he was glad to be her pillow. He’d give her the rest she deserved. He’d stay here for hours if that was what she needed.

Gods, he liked her so much.

“Psst!”

Flinching at the sound, Freminet looked to his right. Sigewinne was smiling at him and Collei. She winked at him too. That gesture alone teased them in a hundred different ways. Luckily, the evening darkness hid his blush well.

Fifteen minutes later, the film ended. Satisfied murmurs arose from the crowd, driving away the cinematic silence. The moviegoers stood and picked up their blankets, plus anything else they brought with them. 

Collei’s body twitched slightly. Freminet held her steady as she finally woke up. He watched closely as she rubbed her eyelids then tried to blink herself awake. Once she did, she took a longer moment to study her surroundings and remember where she was. Next, she locked eyes with Freminet.

“Hey,” he murmured, gazing into drowsy amethyst eyes. “You fell asleep. The movie’s done.”

Freminet saw this drowsiness evaporate in real time as the realization settled in. Both her eyes popped out of their sockets.

“Sorry I didn’t wake you up. I didn’t want to disturb you,” he added.

Oceans of red flooded Collei’s cheeks. She opened her mouth and struggled to find the words. “Did . . . ?”

Yes, you fell asleep on me. And yes, I held you and let you rest your head on my shoulder.

“Collei? Are you here?” Tighnari called from the distance.

She instantly stood up. “Master Tighnari, I’m here!” she blurted, waving in the wrong direction. “Where are we? I mean, where are you?”

As for Freminet, he wasn’t flustered at all anymore. What else could he do but smile?

Chapter 9: Fremillei vs the Icewind Suite

❀❀❀

 

Oh, how the days flew. Today was the third-last day of the Sumerians’ vacation. If there was a higher being who commanded the flow of time, Collei wished they could slow down her perception of it.

She and Freminet tossed some coins into the Fountain of Lucine to make wishes. Collei simply wished happiness on all her friends. She wondered what Freminet wished for, but something told her it was about his family.

After, they strolled northwest up a path they hadn’t walked yet. They passed a few people and Melusines, some of whom said good afternoon. They descended a few flights of stairs and came across an open space. A large circular arena, to be exact. Two fancy clockwork meka danced around and around in the centre. They looked like they were skating, as if this place were actually a stone rink. Three stairways bordered said rink, and at the top of each sat large chairs. They looked like thrones.

“What is this?” Collei asked, mesmerized by the meka’s movements.

“This is the Icewind Suite,” Freminet replied. “Those two Artificed Dancers are Coppelia and Coppelius. It’s a project that was originally developed by the Fontaine Research Institute.”

“Are they dancing or skating?”

“Both, I guess.”

Two people spoke up ahead. One looked like a Fontainian engineer, and he stood next to a Kamera on a tripod. The other looked like Nilou.

“What’s Nilou doing here?” Collei muttered.

Freminet shrugged. Curious, Collei approached the two with Freminet right behind her. Nilou saw them and waved.

Collei waved back. “Hi, Miss Nilou! What are you doing here?”

Nilou gestured to the engineer. “I was just talking with Mr. Maillardet about this magnificent Icewind Suite!”

Maillardet nodded in greeting. “Sir, ma’am, I wish you a good afternoon. Are you here to witness the Icewind Suite?”

Collei shrugged. “I just learned about it from Freminet”—she pointed at him with her thumb–“a few seconds ago.”

“Well, so far, do you like what you see?”

“Yeah! Their dancing is really good.”

“Right?” Nilou remarked with glowing cheeks. “If only I could glide across the ground like that.”

Maillardet put his hands on both hips with an air of pride. “Madame Nilou and I were just discussing Coppelia and Coppelius’s combat abilities on top of their dancing. You see, I have a unique vision for the Icewind Suite, but there’s still room for improvement to fulfill that. I need more experimental data.”

“Experimental data?” Collei repeated. “You mean . . .”

“Joining Coppelia and Coppelius in their dance!” Nilou finished, brandishing her sword.

“Oh.”

Fighting and dancing at the same time was Nilou’s whole shtick. It made sense why she’d be interested.

“You look a little tired, Miss Nilou,” Freminet noticed. “Did you just fight down there?”

“Yes. I partook in the Nemesis of Coppelius. It was challenging, but I won in the end!”

“It was quite the spectacle,” Maillardet added with a glint in his blue eyes. “Madame Nilou moves with a certain style that contrasts with Coppelia and Coppelius’s, yet they blend so well together. I suppose that’s Sumerian choreography for you.”

Collei just missed it! She would’ve liked to watch.

“By the way,” Nilou continued, “The Traveler has apparently fought them a few times before.”

“Really?” Collei exclaimed.

“Interesting,” Freminet replied. “So is anyone allowed to try this?”

Maillardet nodded. “If you would like to test your combat skills against Coppelia and Coppelius, be my guest. Getting extra data will be most beneficial. They will not hurt you too much, of course.”

For a moment, Freminet looked like he wanted to turn around and leave. Instead, he turned to Collei. “Do you want to . . . ?”

“Do I want to fight them?” she finished. “Um, I don’t know. What about you?”

He looked at the Artificed Dancers with a gaze of uncertainty. Was he shy about his fighting being recorded as data?

Suddenly, an idea hit Nilou like a tidal wave. “Collei and Freminet, you should fight them together!”

“Huh?” they said at the same time.

Maillardet’s eyes widened as if that was the best idea he ever heard. “Oh yes, you should absolutely participate together! Coppelia and Coppelius can go another round. And what better way for them to perform the Icewind Suite than with a fellow couple?”

Collei tilted her head. “You really think so?”

“It’ll be a dance battle!” Nilou giggled.

A very literal dance battle.

“Huh.” Collei then nudged Freminet and asked, “Do you want to try?”

He still looked shy about it, but his eyes regained a smidgen of confidence. “I guess it could be fun?”

Collei’s lips curled into a smile. “It’s our first dance.”

He smiled back. “Right.”

For some reason, Collei wasn’t all that nervous aside from a butterfly or two in her stomach. Maybe she would’ve been if she was alone, but she knew she could trust Freminet.

An excited Maillardet clapped his hands once. “Fantastic! Since Miss Nilou just did the Nemesis of Coppelius, you two should do the Dirge of Coppelia.”

Preparations didn’t take long. In two minutes, Coppelia and Coppelius were ready to perform. With bow and claymore in hand, Collei and Freminet stepped onto the stone rink and approached the two Artificed Dancers. Both couples faced each other under imaginary spotlights cast by the sun. The sky darkened, or maybe that was just Collei’s imagination.

Coppelius took off his hat and bowed. Coppelia curtsied. Collei and Freminet, charmed by such gestures, did the same. Thus did their performance began.

The Artificed Dancers struck first. With one hand in the other, they confidently strutted forward. In one smooth motion, Coppelius tapped his cane on the ground to summon a vicious trail of ice. Collei and Freminet leaped out of the way. In response, Collei fired a barrage of Dendro-imbued arrows. Coppelius eagerly shielded Coppelia from them.

Freminet dashed behind them and struck. However, Coppelia deflected his blade with her fan. Coppelius took her hand and swung her to safety, right before slicing the air with his cape. Freminet dove out of the way in the nick of time.

It was Collei’s turn again. She hurled her boomerang at the dancers, but they pushed each other away from its trajectory. Collei then shot at Coppelia’s Kamera-like face. Coppelia dodged effortlessly by swiftly returning to her partner’s embrace.

After catching her boomerang, Collei prepared herself for the next exchange. Coppelius spun his cane, shooting a flurry of icicles her way. She fell backwards just to dodge. She immediately rushed in for a counterattack, but Coppelius withdrew and switched with his partner. Coppelia spun like a tornado, taking the air with her and knocking Collei down. Next, Coppelia leaped into the air and plummeted like a meteor. Luckily, Collei rolled out of the way before getting skewered.

She stood up and saw an explosion of Cryo where Coppelius was. Freminet’s body hurtled towards her face, leaving her with no time to react. They tumbled across the stone then rolled to a stop with Collei lying on top of him.

“Sorry,” he groaned. “Coppelius has more raw icepower than me.”

“Ow . . . it’s okay.”

Collei pushed herself up and looked down at him. Him and his pretty pale hair, strewn across the ground in perfect waves. Him and his pretty pale eyes, which shone at her even from beneath her shadow.

She rolled off before her face melted in a blush. After scrambling to retrieve her bow, she faced the Artificed Dancers once more. They skated closer with a terrifying elegance and hypnotic harmony.

“Alright,” Collei huffed, “if we can’t beat them in raw power, we need to beat them in brainpower.”

Freminet picked up his claymore. “Sounds good. Let’s attack at the same time. We’ll find a way to outsmart them.”

Collei took out Cuilein-Anbar and threw it at the dancers. At the same time, Freminet took out Pers and flung it with his claymore. Coppelia and Coppelius danced around Cuilein-Anbar, but Pers smacked Coppelius in the face. Coppelia looked at him, seemingly concerned. It stopped them long enough to keep them in the range of Cuilein-Anbar’s Dendro explosions, which disrupted their movements further.

Collei fired an arrow at Coppelia’s feet. She jumped high in the air to dodge, but Freminet had jumped first. He smacked her down with his claymore. Coppelia hit the ground in an Anemo whirlwind, during which Collei fired more arrows at Coppelius. He deflected some with his cane, but the rest were clean hits.

Coppelia and Coppelius took each other’s hands and drifted away from Cuilein-Anbar’s range. Collei and Freminet quickly pursued them. Freminet actually snatched Cuilein-Anbar and threw it at the dancers once more. Collei, with little time to think, kicked Pers at them. She internally apologized to both the mechanical penguin and Freminet.

Coppelius blocked both with his cape, only for Collei to jump on it and bounce off into the air. From above, she unleashed a deluge of arrows the dancers couldn’t dodge. Freminet slid under Coppelia’s dress to shield himself from the arrows. Then, he got up and slashed her across the back. Before Coppelius could avenge her, Collei landed on him with a kick that shattered his balance.

After, Collei jumped off Coppelius and glanced at Freminet. Give me a boost.

He returned the glance. Sure.

These unspoken words travelled faster than sound. Freminet raised his claymore for Collei to land on, right before flinging her at the dancers with extra momentum. She tried to smack Coppelia with her bow, but Coppelius lifted her and skated away. Collei and Freminet sprinted after them without a second thought.

The key to defeating them was to disrupt their harmony. Coppelia and Coppelius were strong individually, but they only fought best with proper coordination. Without that, Collei and Freminet’s teamwork would come out on top. They mustn’t let this momentum slip away.

Collei used more ranged Dendro attacks to keep the dancers occupied. Freminet hit them with endless Cryo slashes. Both dodged the dancers’ frequent counterattacks. This offensive of frost and foliage broke through the mechanical storm of wind and hail. It may not have been as elegant, but it certainly was efficient.

Nilou and Maillardet watched in the distance. Collei wondered what it looked like from their perspective—did this performance look more like a battle or a dance?

After another lengthy bout, Collei charged another Dendro arrow. “I think we almost got them!” she gasped.

Freminet made a noise that sounded like tired laughter. “You’re right. Let’s keep this up.”

“Mm!”

That was the moment everything went wrong.

Freminet ran up, but Collei released her arrow too early. It grazed his hair, startling him. It slowed him down long enough for Coppelius to ambush him with a blast of ice shards. Freminet barely dodged, but he nearly hit Collei in the process. She frantically twirled around him and tripped over her own leg.

“Collei!” Freminet yelped, grabbing her arm.

Coppelia danced around Coppelius and took her turn. She quickly raised her fan, and the winds rose with it. It knocked Collei and Freminet to the ground, during which Coppelius danced around her while scraping the ground with his cane. He flicked it to the sky, launching the duo away with the grandest, iciest explosion.

When Collei’s body slid to a stop, she was too tired to get up.

 

❆❆❆

 

An exhausted Freminet opened his eyes to the blinding glare of the sun.

Thankfully, Nilou came and stood over him. Her head cast a merciful shadow over his face. Those cyan eyes weren’t anywhere near as blinding.

“Are you two alright?” she asked gently.

“Yes,” Freminet groaned. He carefully sat up while rubbing his head. “It’s nothing I can’t walk off.”

Beside him, Collei was awake but kept lying on the ground. She looked at Nilou and asked, “How did you fight Coppelia and Coppelius all by yourself? They’re tough!”

Nilou put a finger on her chin. “They don’t just do whatever moves they want. There’s a sort of routine to their movements. A pattern, if you will.”

“No wonder you won, then.”

From what Freminet knew, Nilou didn’t have any groundbreaking powers. She wasn’t as powerful as, say, the General Mahamatra. But as a renowned dancer, it made sense that Nilou easily adapted to the Icewind Suite and defeated those dancers.

Nilou crouched next to Freminet and Collei. “You did pretty good, though. You almost won!”

Freminet shrugged. “We had the right idea. We threw them off balance, and that was their weakness.”

“Looks like it was our weakness too,” Collei giggled, sitting up straight.

A slowly clapping Maillardet approached them. “Well done, you two. Coppelia and Coppelius haven’t fought many duos before, so thank you for letting them have that experience! This data is very valuable.”

“And thank you for letting us try,” Freminet replied. He was too tired to feel shy or ashamed. “That was our first time fighting side by side.”

“We’re pretty strong, I think,” Collei beamed.

Even with the scrape on her cheek and her messy hair, she looked so precious.

“Right,” Freminet replied.

Maillardet helped him up while Nilou helped Collei up. Unexpectedly, Coppelia and Coppelius skated towards them one last time. They stopped and did the same thing they did at the start of the battle—a bow and curtsy.

Once again, Freminet and Collei reciprocated.

“Those machines are so delightful,” Nilou remarked. “If only I could dance with them in a real performance . . .”

 

❆❆❆

 

Freminet and Collei took the Aquabus back to the city. Their pain was gone, but they’d still have to explain the rips in their clothing to their friends and family. Hopefully Father would be happy if Freminet made it clear he was spending quality time with his girlfriend.

“You know what I can do?” Collei said in an unfamiliar tone. “I can sew the rips in your clothes so your family won’t notice.”

It was the tone of playful mischief.

“Thank you, but it’s fine,” Freminet answered, inspecting himself. “Father will know I fought no matter what we do.”

“Aw, okay.”

Freminet eyed her slender fingers. “Is sewing hard, Collei?”

She admired the ocean scenery beneath the Aquabus. “It was at first. I kept making really bad stitches and cutting my hands. But I got better with practice!”

“I see.”

The image of Collei’s fingers bleeding made his stomach hurt.

“Do you want to learn how to sew?”

“No, sorry . . . but I want to watch you do it.”

She raised her eyebrows. “Really?”

At first, Freminet said that so he wouldn’t completely disappoint her. But it turned out to be true.

“Yeah. I want to see you sew something,” he answered earnestly.

Excitement glowed in Collei’s cheeks. That or nervousness. Or both at the same time. “Okay. I’ve been making a new stuffed doll these past few days. It’s in my pocket right now. I have my sewing kit too. You can watch me work on it if you want.”

Freminet nodded.

“Also,” Collei began. She hesitated. “Can I ask something in return?”

“Of course.”

“Can you show me how you make clockwork toys?”

Freminet flinched at the suggestion.

Collei fiddled with her fingers. “I, um . . . I’ve been wanting to see it for a while. The fact you can make and fix mechanical things is one of the reasons I was so interested in you.”

Did she have to word it like that?

Anyway, Freminet had never shown anyone this hobby apart from his family. What would Collei think? Would she think he was silly or boring if she saw what he did up close?

No—if he didn’t think that way of her sewing, he didn’t have to worry about Collei’s opinion. Still, the idea of fully sharing this personal hobby overwhelmed him. In a good way.

“I can show you,” he answered.

“Thank you, hehe . . .”

Fabric and metal made an unlikely duo. Even so, it worked. Stitching fabric together and assembling machine components—were they not fundamentally similar after all?

“I have a proposal,” Freminet muttered, staring at the floor of the Aquabus.

“Yeah?”

“I want to watch you sew, and you want to watch me make clockwork toys. How about you come to my place later tonight?”

Collei blinked. “I can go to your place?”

He nodded. “It’s at the Hotel Bouffes d’ete. Father won’t mind if you stay for a while.”

Her jaw fell as feelings bubbled out of her face. “I . . . I’d like that.”

Freminet was glad. Not just because she accepted, but also because he didn’t scare her off. He wanted to maximize their time together before her vacation’s end. This seemed like a good way to do so.

And sure, having a girl over might be as nerve-racking as the end of the world, but Freminet already took several leaps of faith these past few days.

What’s a few more hours with the one who made his heart dance its very own Icewind Suite?

Notes:

Collei and Freminet vs Coppelia and Coppelius was a last-minute idea but honestly I think it would make for a really cool animation

That aside, there will be 3 more chapters until the Fontaine vacation is over. I think I can finish them this year but we'll see ^^

Series this work belongs to:

• Part 2 of Your local unhinged Sumeru-Fontaine group chat