seraph-of-sizes

[seraph-of-sizes]

Broken Homes of Different Sizes pt12

Borrower Lyney and Lynette, Human Freminet (Slight au with borrowers existing, everything else is the same as canon)

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“Freminet.” The diver shook his head at the quiet voice. He knew, realistically, that he was being childish, hiding under the covers like a kid. But after the meeting with Father his heart had yet to calm down, even after returning home and carefully letting the twins go.

He had swiftly apologized and retreated to his room, desperately wanting to go diving, but feeling guilty that Father had managed to abduct the twins earlier. So initially when Lyney had climbed onto his bed, he had acknowledged him, but didn’t say anything. 

This, of course, caused the eldest’s stubborn streak to appear as Lyney continuously prodded at his face and repeated his name. He let out an amused huff as Lyney decided to give up, flopping against his neck. “Lyney?”

“Oh, now you want to talk.” He heard the pyro user grumble, followed by an ineffective smack against his cheek. “Well too bad, I’m tired.”

“You forgot what you were going to say.” Freminet accused, a small smile creeping onto his face as he adjusted his position so he could cradle his hand around Lyney protectively.

“No, but…” He felt Lyney twist to be cupped in his hand. “We’re worried about you. The whole time we were there, I could see your fear. Fear of Arlecchino, fear of pushing us towards the House of the Hearth, in the path of the Fatui.”

“Worried about me? No- I should be worrying about you and Lynette!” Freminet felt all of the emotions he had fought to suppress make an ugly reappearance. “Father kidnapped you both! Used you as bargaining chips, I- I’m sorry for dragging you both into my life. I don’t des-” “If you say you don’t deserve us, you do. We’re in this together now.” The boys turned to see Lynette had climbed her way onto the bed as well. Freminet sighed and turned to lay on his back, carefully moving Lyney with him. The hand Lyney was laying in was now facing palm-up, the other laying over his stomach. Lynette joined Lyney as they curled up together, content on his cooler skin. 

They sat in silence for a moment before Freminet twisted again to curl around the twins. “I guess I’m just… scared. The future has no certainty now. I admit…before I met you both I… didn’t really have anything to live for other than Pers and orders from the Hearth.”

“Well you’re stuck with us now.” Lyney chuckled, shoving at one of his fingers. “Whatever the future holds, we’ll face it together.”

“Yeah…” Freminet hummed. “We should address the Vishap in the room, huh.”

Lynette and Lyney sat up so they could look up at Freminet properly. 

“The Prophecy of Dissolution, result of Fontaine’s Great Sin.” He whispered. “According to the prophecy, all inhabitants of Fontaine are born with sin that cannot be absolved. The prophecy also states that one day, the water levels in Fontaine will rise, and all individuals with sin will be drowned and dissolved, with only the Hydro Archon remaining, weeping on her throne.”

“And… is it true?” Lyney asked slowly. “Not every myth is based in fact.”

“No one knows for sure.” Freminet sighed. “But one thing we do know is that the water levels are rising at the base of the Fontaine Mesa. Though that may be due to the ruins of Remuria near Petrichor.”

“Then where should we start?” Lynette crossed her arms. “It sounds like there are no real leads.”

“I think… it might be tied to the Disappearing Women’s case.” Freminet grimaced. “They’re gone without trace, all that is left is their garments and some sort of liquid.”

“You don’t mean to imply-” Lyney’s face turned white.

Freminet sighed as he slowly sat up, cradling his siblings carefully. “Yes…Someone has already figured out how Fontainians dissolve while leaving their clothes behind, meaning it isn’t just some run of the mill acid. And it’s definitely tied to Sinthe.” He pulled a small vial from his inventory, the liquid within shined faintly, sparkling like glitter mixed with water. “I found some being smuggled in Poisson while on a mission and learned it was diluted from some dangerous chemical. I’m guessing that ‘chemical’ is actually the thing that dissolves Fontainians.”

“So if you can find who is distributing and creating Sinthe, as well as the person behind the Disappearing Women’s case, you may be able to stop the prophecy.” Lyney nodded, placing a hand against the glass vial.

“That’s the… general idea, yeah.” Freminet returned the vial to his inventory. “I think we can start looking into that tomorrow. I’m not sure I’m ready to deal with other people after the meeting with Father earlier.”

“We can understand that.” The twins agreed in sync, making Freminet laugh softly. He stared at the two silently, the emotions that were threatening to drown him earlier seemed so… distant now. He gently pulled the two closer and felt the rumble of them purring against his chest. He slowly leaned back until he was laying back on his bed, hands draped over the two borrowers protectively.

With a new clarity and a settled mind, he drifted to sleep.

Day broke and Freminet hissed softly at the light filtering into the room. He froze, heart thudding in his chest as he realized two things, one it was past dawn, meaning he was late to report to the Hearth, and two, the two small weights he had fallen asleep with on his chest were missing.

His gaze frantically swept the room, growing more panicked as the twins were nowhere to be seen. 

“Calm down Fremi.” His breath hitched as he zeroed in on the soft voice, eyes landing immediately on Lynette as she stood on the corner of his nightstand, arms crossed. “Remember, you’re on a personalized mission now. Everything is at our pace, not the Hearth’s.”

Freminet nodded slowly, still fighting the shallow breaths down to deeper ones. He was having so many attacks lately, his gaze fell onto the movement at his side and he took a deep breath as Lyney scaled up onto the mattress next to him. “Where- where did you go?”

The twins exchanged a look, and suddenly Freminet was reminded that regardless of how close they had gotten over the last week, they lived completely different lives than him, and really owed him no explanation to their whereabouts.

Lyney sighed. “We were trying to fix breakfast for you. But even with Rosseland’s help, nothing was working. So I was cleaning everything up and sent Lynette back to check on you.”

Huh.

“Huh?” Freminet blinked slowly, reaching over and holding out a hand for Lynette, pausing as Lyney decided he wanted to join his sister in his hold. He slowly pulled himself out of bed and traipsed towards the kitchen, wincing at the mess. “I-Well, it’s the thought that counts.” He didn’t have to look down to tell Lyney was pouting at him.

Instead he silently placed the twins down on the counter and began cleaning up the attempt, thankfully since the two were small, so was the mess. Of course he would never say that outloud. 

Instead he happily put on his kitchen apron and made some crepes, trying not to laugh at the entranced expressions of the borrowers, especially Lynette who kept attempting to get into the Bulle fruit filling. Eventually it was finished and he plated portions for both himself and the twins, moving the plates to the table then coming back for the two. Before he could even offer his hand, he felt his heart drop as they scaled up his arm to his shoulder, leaving him stunned.

“You okay?” He gaped at how clear Lynette’s voice was, obviously due to the proximity, but it made him notice the subtle drawl to her voice that he had missed from farther range. 

“Fine, sorry.” He whispered, knowing how close they were to his throat, he was sure his voice would be that much louder. And considering the twins had sensitive hearing already-

“Whoa, your heartbeat is so loud.” He fought back the urge to flinch at the soft touch against his neck as Lyney set his hand on top of his carotid artery. A sudden feeling of vulnerability washed over Freminet as he realized at this range, one elemental or Arkhe infused attack could do significant damage. He swallowed roughly, trying to subdue the instinct to get rid of that weakness and vulnerability as quickly as possible, as that meant hurting the twins and the thought alone made him nauseous.

He tuned out the worried voices of the two and quickly sat down at the table, reaching up and gently pulling them down and away from his- from the danger he posed. He set them down on the table and settled his head down on his arms.

“Hey.” He blinked as Lyney turned away from the food and looked at him sternly. “What’s wrong?”

“...’m not hungry anymore.” He admitted softly. “‘s all.”

Lyney sighed, glancing at Lynette, sharing some secret understanding and making Freminet feel worse.

“Is it about the Hearth?” Lynette said hesitantly, as if testing unknown waters. He sighed and closed his eyes, wishing briefly he could just hide in his helmet for a while.

“In a way.” He admitted after a moment, eyes still closed tightly. He wasn’t sure he could keep talking if their expressions were anything but simple curiosity. A deep breath calmed his nerves a little as he continued. “I’m really not used to anyone wanting to be close to me…I’ve always tried to stick to the shadows, stay out of the limelight and just- stay as uninvolved as possible if I’m not on a mission.”

He swallowed, not hearing any prompting, but also no signs to stop. “There’s a lot of, well, Navia calls it trauma, the Hearth calls it the instincts to survive.” He opened his eyes slowly, seeing the two listening raptly, nodding to show they were listening, but the lack of judgement left him feeling more bold. “I haven’t had any- I guess you would say physical contact with another person unless it was to-” He hesitated. “To trick them- deceive o-or… kill.”

“Being that close to your neck really stressed you out, huh.” Lyney sighed, shaking his head. “We won’t do it again, promise.”

“No that’s-” Freminet frowned before sighing as well. “I trust you both…way too much. That’s the problem…I don’t know how to react to that trust. Especially when I think about how I’ve used trust to betray my targets- but! That’s not to say you would ever take advantage of it or something I just-” He felt like he was sinking further and further beneath the waves of his own words. Just like him to get tongue-tied trying to explain feelings he didn’t even have an explanation for….

“You trust us, but you are afraid to.” Lynette glanced at Lyney. “Sounds like how we felt after my dear brother made an Oath with a human.”

Lyney rubbed his neck sheepishly. “Well, I can’t be faulted too much- I mean I was right about him being a good person after all.”

Freminet stared at Lyney in a mix of shock and confusion. Him? Good?

“Oh don’t look so shocked.” Lynette deadpanned, glancing up at him, making him wince at being read so easily. “You are a good human, and we trust you.”

He took a deep breath before gently holding out his hand, watching the two lean into his touch, regardless of their size difference, regardless of his instincts and feelings. “Thank you.” He smiled softly. “I trust you both too…”

They sat in silence before Lyney pushed at his fingers. “Alright, now that all of that is sorted out, I am starving, move it!”

Freminet snorted and moved back as they all began to eat the slightly cooled meal. 

As he cleaned up the dishes and put them away, Freminet held back a flinch as Lynette sat against his neck, at Lyney’s insistence he would try to get used to the further proximity. However, it also meant he was hyperaware of his movements, out of fear he would jostle her and potentially knock her from her perch on him.

Meanwhile, Lyney was heading back to their home behind the bookshelf to grab their borrowing equipment, as it had been left behind when they had been kidnapped by Father.

“Your heartbeat got faster again.” Lynette hummed, and he winced. “Surely the dishes aren’t giving you that much trouble?”

“No- just-” He sighed, putting down the last dish into the drying rack. “I respect Father as the Head of the House, but also…she put you and Lyney into danger…I put you two into danger. I was just…reminded of it and let it get the better of me.” He frowned at himself. He was usually pretty good at controlling and suppressing his emotions, marching onwards, unyielding and unwavering like his meka. But around the twins, it seemed like it was impossible to hide behind his old facades. 

“You’re a person, emotions are there to be felt and experienced. They build you into who you are, and shape who you will become.” Lyney hummed as he emerged from behind one of the tiles in the kitchen wall. “Maybe you should go out and get some air, or go diving, you tend to do that a lot.”

“I haven’t in a while.” He frowned. “I don’t know- the Fontaine Sea isn’t exactly friendly, even to humans.”

“Then a walk it is.” Lyney grinned. “C’mon.”

Freminet sighed and nodded, despite his reluctantness, he smiled at how excited the twins seemed to be at the idea of going outside. He swallowed, thinking back to their walk to the Southern Garden just two days ago, it felt like a lifetime ago now.

He watched the twins duck back into the walls after telling him to meet them by their outside entrance after he was ready. He yawned and quickly showered, then pulled on his divesuit, the material familiar. Even if he didn’t plan on going diving, it didn’t hurt to be prepared for the chance.

He exited his home and pulled out one of his empty hip tanks, normally they stored rations or he used them to store small meka components he found while diving. But he had spent a little bit adding an oxygen converter and some soft padding. A pocket would only protect them so much, and if he ended up somewhere crowded, he would rather them have a spot to retreat to for safety.

Somewhere they couldn’t be taken from.

He attached it to his hip and crouched down next to the grate, holding out a hand as the twins emerged, he pulled them up and glanced around quickly before bringing them to the pocket he had sewn into his dive jacket. He waited patiently as they settled, before picking a direction and just walking.

Every so often he would see one of them peek out and look at their surroundings, and he would immediately pause to give them a better view, but also to shield them from any onlookers. After about an hour of wandering he paused by one of the signboards near the Palais Mermonia. 

“Are you interested?" He jumped at the voice behind him, one hand immediately darting down to the pocket, to hide the twins if they had been looking out.

He turned to see a well-groomed man, likely some upper echelon of Fontaine. 

“Uhm.” He glanced back at the signboard in confusion. “In what?”

“The tale of the Lochknights of course!” The man grinned, gesturing to a small flyer, almost hidden by all of the others. “Even Lady Furina and Monsieur Neuvillette will be in attendance!”

Freminet blinked. It was rare for the Hydro Archon to sit in on plays that didn’t include her in some way, and rarer still for the Iudex to have the free time to watch something other than one of the many infamous trials. “That’s a…an impressive feat…”

“Truly, it will be something that Fontaine will remember for many years to come!” A shiver ran down his spine as an odd edge appeared in the man’s tone. His eyes glinted in an almost shimmering way, setting him on edge. “Ah- I apologize, where are my manners! My name is Cowell, I directed the play.” He bowed theatrically, which Freminet supposed made sense, before standing back up and holding out a piece of paper. “Here, as an apology. One ticket to the opening performance, front and center seats! I hope to see you there!”

Freminet took the ticket, looking up to ask when the show would be, only to stare as the man was gone. He glanced around before shrugging.

His eyes were drawn back to the ticket, and he blinked as he realized the man had accidentally given him two tickets instead of one. He frowned, feeling bad for the mistake, but made the mental decision to give it to the ticket clerk if he decided to go.

“Huh, it’s for tomorrow evening.” He blinked. “Odd, an event with both the Archon and the Iudex and it seems so short notice too…”

He had to admit…he was a little curious, and a little excited.

[seraph-of-sizes]

it's been a hot minute, but im back! i just got done moving into my new apartment, and the heat has destroyed me :(

im going to try and finish the next chapter of BHoDS soon, but i've moved on from genshin a bit so it might still be a while </3

ive gotten back into pokemon so i may end up with some oneshots here and there, as well as trying to make some g/t ocs for once (any tips would be much obliged <3)

might do gtjuly too! i don't have a lot of time so i can't do artfight this year which i was kinda looking forwards to, oh well.

[seraph-of-sizes]

hmm

business meeting has gone a little sideways perhaps?

[seraph-of-sizes]

If you post g/t or follow the g/t tag please interact with this post in someway so I can follow you. I need to know all of the peeps so I can collect them like a g/t infinity gauntlet

Pls Reblog so that I can follow as many people as possible the goal is constant g/t on my feed :)

[seraph-of-sizes]

BHoDS sneak peek

Hi yall! Today is my birthday, so here's a quick excerpt from the next chapter <3

I've had on and off writers block with this one but im getting close to being finished with it :D

After the trial finished Freminet ducked into a small corridor, trying to calm his racing heart. If he hadn’t invited the Traveler to see the play, the twins would’ve been…

“After the events we just witnessed, I do not recommend going off on your own like this.” Freminet’s heart shot back into his throat as he turned to see the Iudex of Fontaine walking towards him. “It would be wise for you to remain on a buddy system, you may have become a new mark now that the killer is no longer exclusively targeting women.”

“I understand, thank you.” He nodded, hand raising to his heart. He belatedly realized it was a gesture he had picked up from the Traveler.

“Hm.”

“I-Is something else wrong, Monsieur Neuvillette?” Freminet asked timidly, the slitted eyes of the Iudex setting him on edge.

“Your soul…You have turned an Oath bind into an Intertwined Fate. That’s very rare, I have only seen two others in my many years that can say the same.” The man hummed.

“An Intertwined Fate?” Freminet asked slowly, hand twitching towards the modified tank on his hip where his siblings were. Could the eyes of the Judge of Fontaine also see who he was attached to?

“Yes, certain conditions must be met, such as a swearing of an Oath bind for each other, as well as putting your lives on the line for each other.” Neuvillette smiled. “And even rarer still, you seem to have two souls intertwined with yours. You are truly unique, Fremient. So, do be careful.”

Freminet blinked as the man then walked around and past him, just in time for the Traveler to come rushing towards him.

[seraph-of-sizes]

Freminet's B-Day One-shot

Takes place in the BHoDS AU, after the events of the main story, so keep an eye on it, you'll get a few sneak peaks at ideas I have for the main story ;)

As usual: Human Freminet, with borrowers Lyney and Lynette, with some extras as well this time ~

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“Halt!” 

The twins lept out of their skins, hisses echoing in the small corridor. Eventually the light that had blinded them moved away, and their vision cleared enough to see a familiar face.

“Chevreuse.” Lyney sighed in relief as the woman raised an eyebrow.

“So, you want to tell me why you’re sneaking around the walls of the Palais Mermonia?” She asked, giving them a flat look. “The Special Patrol does have other borrower members, not just me y’know.”

“Well it’s good that we ran into you then, isn’t it?” Lyney grinned mischievously.

“We’re here to talk with Monsieur Neuvillette.” Lynette cut in, not wanting the conversation to drag on. “He heard Freminet’s birthday was soon and had one of the Melusines find us. We’re going to be arranging a surprise party.”

“Oh.” Chevreuse blinked, glancing at Lyney who nodded. “Makes sense, he did set up a break time outside of his usual routine, probably to cover up your meeting.” She sighed. “Fine, follow me.”

“So how is your lady-friend Chio-”

“BE QUIET.”

•••••••••••••••••••••••••(@v@)••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

“Oh good, I was wondering if you had gotten lost.” The twins blinked as their eyes adjusted to the brighter light of Neuvillette’s office compared to the passageways in the walls.

“Oh they did sir.” They watched the Iudex turn in surprise at Chevreuse’s words, only to chuckle. 

“I must thank you then, Miss Chevreuse.” He smiled, taking a seat and crossing his legs. “If you would like to come closer, there are walkways to your left, if not that is perfectly fine. I can hear you from here.”

“I’ll be going back to my rounds, bye you two. Let me know about the party, I’ll see if I can rope some of my humans along.” Chevreuse grinned before ducking back into the walls.

An uneasy silence fell over the room, as the twins realized how little they actually knew about the figurehead of Fontainian Justice.

Neuvillette cleared his throat, breaking the silence. “Young Freminet… is a member of the House of the Hearth, and as such I am not at much liberty to interact with him outside of our brief meetings on the streets of Fontaine. I am not all that familiar with his interests or taste in foods, but I can assist in arranging a venue that is safe for everyone to attend, as well as making certain certain individuals are invited in a timely manner with plenty of time to have the event without interfering with their work schedules.”

“That would be perfect.” Lyney relaxed, realizing someone actually capable was going to handle the main aspects, and he could enlist the Traveler’s help for the food and decorations. “Will you get that information to the Traveler when it's done? She’s been our main help.”

“Of course.” Neuvillette nodded.

They continued to discuss what the party would entail and who was to be invited, finally coming to an agreement.

“So the party shall be held in the Spina di Rosula’s base in the Fleuve Cendre the morning of the 21st. The list of attendees shall be sent to the Traveler who shall hand out the invitations.”

“We can work with that.” Lyney grinned. “Thank you Monsieur Neuvillette.”

“Anytime.” The Iudex nodded before a loud knock sounded on the door to his office. “Seems my break time is over, be careful traversing the walls back outside, if you have any issues release a pulse of Neuma or Ousia, one of the Melusines will guide you.”

“Thank you.” The twins bowed before re-entering the walls, wincing as the soft voice of Furina began to chat with Neuvillette.

“She’s still recovering.” Lynette commented, the two having paused at the demure tone. “To have to fool an entire nation, cursed to live at a different size whenever someone looks at you, immortal only to fulfill a role in a play.”

“I heard Miss Clervie and her have met since the Great Flood. She’s still scared witless around Father, but that’s…fair.” Lyney winced. “I wonder what it’s like for her now, able to change her size so freely. It makes me a little…”

“Jealous?” Lynette crossed her arms, staring at her twin knowingly.

“...yes.” Lyney mirrored her, frowning. “I’ve never really wished to be human sized, but seeing someone else enjoying both walks of life, what if we could actually be Freminet’s siblings? Be able to comfort him properly? Hug him tight after a rough mission? Protect the Traveler, help her explore? Not have to rely on humans- all. of. the. time.” By the end Lyney’s words came out through gritted teeth.

“Because that’s not fair, and life is not fair. Especially to borrowers, especially to us.” Lynette countered. “We are enough as we are. Freminet knows that, the Traveler knows that, all of our other human and borrower friends know that.” She sighed, her ears folding back and her tail falling. “I can’t say I don’t wish for it too sometimes. But we cannot fold when we have a winning hand, that would be meaningless and stupid. So let’s… not do that.”

Lyney groaned. “You make me so angry, why did that make sense?”

“Easy.” Lynette snickered. “Because I’m amazing.”

“Alright- c’mere!” Lyney lunged at Lynette who jumped back before racing further into the wall, Lyney hot on her heels.

•••••••••••••••••••••••••(@v@)••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

“What took so long?” Freminet asked as the twins finally emerged from the marked entrance.

“Lyney is slow.” Lynette shrugged, gracefully dodging Lyney’s attempted tackle.

He grunted as instead of dirt, he fell onto the familiar warmth of Freminet’s hand. “And I said using your vision was cheating!” He grumbled as Freminet’s hand closed around him and lifted him up to the shining blue eyes of his brother. “What?”

“Mean.” Freminet fake-pouted. “The Traveler said she would be back soon, and that you took too long, so she was going to do her commissions real quick.”

“Left our poor brother all alone.” Lyney grumbled playfully, nudging at Freminet’s grip.

“In broad daylight, in the middle of the Court, with no more threat of Primordial Dissolution.” Lynette mocked.

Lyney began to fight against Freminet. “You’re so lucky I’m caught by a human right now!”

Freminet laughed brightly, causing the twins to freeze and look at him in awe. It was the happiest sound they had heard him make since they met. There was an ease of his shoulders, his face was smoothed of any worry, almost perfectly carefree.

“I thank the Archons everyday, that I met you two.” Freminet said softly after calming down, a smile still nestled on his face. “I couldn’t ask for anything else in the world more precious.”

The twins exchanged a look. 

“I’m glad we took the chance and trusted you.” They said in-sync. 

“Wow, that's so sweet.” The siblings twisted to see the Traveler who waved silently, as well as Paimon as she poked her head out of the Traveler’s scarf, smiling as she continued. “We got done pretty quick. One was actually from Monsieur Neuvillette.”

“That’s unusual, usually any commissions are  handled by the Melusines.” Freminet shrugged, gently picking up Lynette and unfurling his hands beneath the twins. “What was it for?”

“Just some documents that needed to be delivered to multiple people. We were the fastest option since the Traveler can use the waypoints.” Paimon explained.

“How is our dear Traveler today?” Lyney asked, turning to the Outlander. She blinked before shrugging, causing Paimon to shriek in protest.

“I’m fine.” She raised an eyebrow at the expectant silence. “Sorry, I… just got back from a trip to Sumeru and something just feels wrong at the moment, I just can’t place it.”

“Yeah Traveler didn’t sleep at all last night. It’s really worrying Paimon.” The tiny girl frowned.

“That’s not good, you need your rest.” Freminet hummed. “Especially you, you’re constantly running around, you’re bound to be exhausted.”

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to worry you with this.” The Traveler shook her head and placed a hand over her heart. 

“It’s okay.” The siblings chuckled as they spoke in tandem. 

“Let’s go find somewhere I can set up a cooking pot, I’ll make us lunch.” The Traveler smiled.

“Yes! Food!” Paimon cheered, causing the group to laugh.

“It never ceases to amaze me how Paimon can eat a human-sized portion and still act hungry.” Lyney commented as the humans began to walk towards the north-west exit to the Court. “Where does it all go? Perhaps she can teach me a few new tricks.”

“Lyney.” Lynette groaned at the pun.

“What dear sister?” He teased, moving to poke her ticklish stomach, causing the girl to squirm before pouncing on her brother and further engaging in a tickle war.

Freminet just sighed as he moved his hands to contain them both, making them protest briefly at the sudden darkness before going back to play-fighting. He glanced at the Traveler who was fighting back laughter.

“You would think they’re the younger ones sometimes.” He said before laughing softly.

“They trust you so much.” She nodded, smiling back. “One thing I’ve learned about borrowers is that they are forced to grow up so quickly… them acting childish and playing is a testament to their belief that you will keep them safe so they can be at ease.” An unknown expression crossed her face as she turned away. “Protect that trust. Okay?”

“Of course.” Freminet nodded.

After a minute more of walking they came to a stop at a small wooded clearing, an obvious campsite.

“This is usually where I hide my Teapot when in Fontaine, if I’m in the area and its night time this is where you can usually find me.” The Traveler said, placing down a carpet and then summoning a cook pot that floated, likely some device she had picked up.

Freminet took the opportunity to pull his hands apart and fought to keep his expression calm as the twins were trying to fix their hair back from the disasters they had become.

“Do not laugh.” Lyney hissed at him. 

It only became harder as a soft snort escaped him, causing the Traveler to glance over and let out a sharp laugh.

“Damnit Freminet!” Lyney’s face quickly reddened and he buried it in his hands. Lynette began giggling at her twin, teasing him just out of Freminet’s hearing range.

“What are you making?” Freminet asked after a moment, curious at the various things the Traveler had laid out in preparation. 

“Just wait.” Was the reply.

Soon after, the Traveler presented several different dishes, a mish-mash of cuisine from the nations they had passed through. Freminet had watched in awe as Paimon did indeed inhale a massive portion of food relative to her size, meanwhile Lyney and Lynette picked their way through the dishes, trying them and eagerly talking about the differences. Though at some point a Sumerian dish caught them both off-guard with the spice levels and bottles of milk were opened.

Overall the meal was pleasant and Freminet found himself enjoying the Liyuen foods the most, besides the familiar Fontainian cuisine. He noticed the Traveler taking interest in the foods he did, asking him what he liked about each one. It felt oddly pleasant, to describe his likes and dislikes so casually. 

Soon enough the meal was finished, and Freminet got up to help the Traveler put everything away.

“Thank you.” She turned at the quiet words and shook her head.

“Don’t thank me, I like to cook. It’s one of the few skills that doesn’t really require specific knowledge, just an idea of an ingredient's flavor and preparation.” There was another unreadable emotion that passed in her eyes as she turned away. “I’m still not perfect with Teyvat’s Common language, so I may not have described that feeling very well.”

“I understand.” Freminet smiled, gazing down at the dish he was drying off. “I’m the same way with meka. I may not know exactly how everything works, but I know enough, and learning more is never boring.”

The Traveler hummed before hiding a yawn. 

“Traveler!” The two turned at Paimon’s yell, the blonde sighing as she reached up and caught the tiny girl mid-air. “It’s late, if you wait any later you won't sleep…” She pouted from the Traveler’s grip. “And Paimon can’t stand it if you don’t sleep, you have worse nightmares later.”

“Fine fine.”She sighed, sending a tired glance at Freminet. “It’s a bit far to trek back to the Court, I can get a Realm Dispatch for you and the twi-...Lyney and Lynette. If you want to, there's places for both sizes to sleep comfortably, Paimon made sure of that.”

Freminet noticed the stutter in the Traveler’s speech but knew better than to say anything, electing to nod. “I’ll ask them.”

“Alright.” He saw her pull out the Adeptal Teapot before he turned away to walk back to his siblings. 

“Everything alright?” Lyney asked, clamoring into Freminet’s offered hand, helping Lynette up as well. “Paimon took off when the Traveler yawned.”

“Yes, she just wanted the Traveler to go to bed while sleepy since if she doesn’t she may not sleep at all.” Freminet explained as he brought the twins up to his heart, hugging them softly against himself, feeling them begin to purr. “She invited us to sleep in the Teapot Realm, since it’s a bit far back to the Court.”

“Sounds nice, I’m tired.” Lynette hummed, already curling up against Lyney’s warmth, kneading at Freminet’s hand.

“I’m with Lynette on this one, I don’t think any of us would make it home anyhow.” Lyney chuckled.

“Fair enough.” Freminet smiled, walking towards the Traveler as she reappeared from the Teapot.

“Perfect timing. Are you joining us?” She asked, glancing amusedly at the twins in his hands. “They look as tired as I feel.”

“Yeah I think they’re ready to pass out and so am I admittedly.” Freminet glanced away bashfully. “Thank you for inviting us to stay.”

“Here.” He blinked as the Traveler placed a necklace carefully over his head. He glanced down at the wooden charm that hung from it. “It’s the Realm Dispatch, as long as you have it, you can tap on it while imagining the Teapot to teleport there. Any borrowers that are in reaching distance will be teleported too.” At his raised eyebrow she laughed. “Since Paimon flies it was just easier that way instead of constantly having to hold her to work.”

He hummed in understanding, smiling amusedly at that mental image. With a moment of coaching he finally got the charm to work, his eyes wide in awe at the Abode. It was decorated like a mini town center, with the Main House obvious as it towered over the other buildings.

He followed the Traveler, awe-struck into silence as they entered the Main House. She chuckled at him and led him to one of the many rooms, quietly pointing out the human bed and the borrower-accessible only alcove. She then left them alone to go to her own room and crash for the night.

“It’s so peaceful here. No wonder the Traveler can go so many places and look well-rested.” Lyney said before yawning. “Still, it’s late. C’mon dear sister, we just have to climb some steps.”

“Don’t wanna.” Lynette grumbled, but followed Lyney into the walls without much more fuss. Freminet listened before relaxing at the two solid knocks from higher up the wall, they had made it to their own room perfectly fine.

He slowly began to shed his unnecessary clothes and stored them in his inventory, switching to pajamas. He slowly crawled into the Mondstadt-styled bed and was asleep before his head hit the pillow.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••(@v@)•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

A sharp breath filled Freminet’s lungs as he jack-knifed awake, his eyes wide as he felt Lyney and Lynette were not where they were last night, nor were they anywhere around him. His mind shot back to when Father had taken them without him even knowing, had it happened again?

Was the Traveler okay? If someone had snuck into the Abode and kidnapped his siblings, what else could they have done?

He threw on proper battle clothes as quickly as possible, feeling the sharp cold of Cryo wrapping around him, keeping him alert as he left the Abode, Claymore at the ready.

“SURPRISE!”

His heart stopped for a moment at the loud noise, only to zero in on his siblings, standing safely on a table, Lady Clervie standing behind them and smiling at him knowingly. As he relaxed he realized the ensemble of humans and borrowers, people that he had met and helped alongside the Traveler and throughout the Prophecy Crisis.

His eyes began to water as he dismissed his claymore, taking in the decorations that looked like Pers and Rosseland, the cake and treats. Dishes that he recognized as the ones that the Traveler had noted that he had enjoyed.

He smiled. “Thank you.”

He blinked as a hand settled on his shoulder, and he felt his heart leap back into his throat as Father stood beside him, her gaze sharp, only to soften slightly as her grip tightened slightly. “Happy Birthday, Freminet.”

“Happy Birthday!” Chorused through the room.

[seraph-of-sizes]

Freminet's B-Day One-shot

Takes place in the BHoDS AU, after the events of the main story, so keep an eye on it, you'll get a few sneak peaks at ideas I have for the main story ;)

As usual: Human Freminet, with borrowers Lyney and Lynette, with some extras as well this time ~

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

“Halt!” 

The twins lept out of their skins, hisses echoing in the small corridor. Eventually the light that had blinded them moved away, and their vision cleared enough to see a familiar face.

“Chevreuse.” Lyney sighed in relief as the woman raised an eyebrow.

“So, you want to tell me why you’re sneaking around the walls of the Palais Mermonia?” She asked, giving them a flat look. “The Special Patrol does have other borrower members, not just me y’know.”

“Well it’s good that we ran into you then, isn’t it?” Lyney grinned mischievously.

“We’re here to talk with Monsieur Neuvillette.” Lynette cut in, not wanting the conversation to drag on. “He heard Freminet’s birthday was soon and had one of the Melusines find us. We’re going to be arranging a surprise party.”

“Oh.” Chevreuse blinked, glancing at Lyney who nodded. “Makes sense, he did set up a break time outside of his usual routine, probably to cover up your meeting.” She sighed. “Fine, follow me.”

“So how is your lady-friend Chio-”

“BE QUIET.”

•••••••••••••••••••••••••(@v@)••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

“Oh good, I was wondering if you had gotten lost.” The twins blinked as their eyes adjusted to the brighter light of Neuvillette’s office compared to the passageways in the walls.

“Oh they did sir.” They watched the Iudex turn in surprise at Chevreuse’s words, only to chuckle. 

“I must thank you then, Miss Chevreuse.” He smiled, taking a seat and crossing his legs. “If you would like to come closer, there are walkways to your left, if not that is perfectly fine. I can hear you from here.”

“I’ll be going back to my rounds, bye you two. Let me know about the party, I’ll see if I can rope some of my humans along.” Chevreuse grinned before ducking back into the walls.

An uneasy silence fell over the room, as the twins realized how little they actually knew about the figurehead of Fontainian Justice.

Neuvillette cleared his throat, breaking the silence. “Young Freminet… is a member of the House of the Hearth, and as such I am not at much liberty to interact with him outside of our brief meetings on the streets of Fontaine. I am not all that familiar with his interests or taste in foods, but I can assist in arranging a venue that is safe for everyone to attend, as well as making certain certain individuals are invited in a timely manner with plenty of time to have the event without interfering with their work schedules.”

“That would be perfect.” Lyney relaxed, realizing someone actually capable was going to handle the main aspects, and he could enlist the Traveler’s help for the food and decorations. “Will you get that information to the Traveler when it's done? She’s been our main help.”

“Of course.” Neuvillette nodded.

They continued to discuss what the party would entail and who was to be invited, finally coming to an agreement.

“So the party shall be held in the Spina di Rosula’s base in the Fleuve Cendre the morning of the 21st. The list of attendees shall be sent to the Traveler who shall hand out the invitations.”

“We can work with that.” Lyney grinned. “Thank you Monsieur Neuvillette.”

“Anytime.” The Iudex nodded before a loud knock sounded on the door to his office. “Seems my break time is over, be careful traversing the walls back outside, if you have any issues release a pulse of Neuma or Ousia, one of the Melusines will guide you.”

“Thank you.” The twins bowed before re-entering the walls, wincing as the soft voice of Furina began to chat with Neuvillette.

“She’s still recovering.” Lynette commented, the two having paused at the demure tone. “To have to fool an entire nation, cursed to live at a different size whenever someone looks at you, immortal only to fulfill a role in a play.”

“I heard Miss Clervie and her have met since the Great Flood. She’s still scared witless around Father, but that’s…fair.” Lyney winced. “I wonder what it’s like for her now, able to change her size so freely. It makes me a little…”

“Jealous?” Lynette crossed her arms, staring at her twin knowingly.

“...yes.” Lyney mirrored her, frowning. “I’ve never really wished to be human sized, but seeing someone else enjoying both walks of life, what if we could actually be Freminet’s siblings? Be able to comfort him properly? Hug him tight after a rough mission? Protect the Traveler, help her explore? Not have to rely on humans- all. of. the. time.” By the end Lyney’s words came out through gritted teeth.

“Because that’s not fair, and life is not fair. Especially to borrowers, especially to us.” Lynette countered. “We are enough as we are. Freminet knows that, the Traveler knows that, all of our other human and borrower friends know that.” She sighed, her ears folding back and her tail falling. “I can’t say I don’t wish for it too sometimes. But we cannot fold when we have a winning hand, that would be meaningless and stupid. So let’s… not do that.”

Lyney groaned. “You make me so angry, why did that make sense?”

“Easy.” Lynette snickered. “Because I’m amazing.”

“Alright- c’mere!” Lyney lunged at Lynette who jumped back before racing further into the wall, Lyney hot on her heels.

•••••••••••••••••••••••••(@v@)••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

“What took so long?” Freminet asked as the twins finally emerged from the marked entrance.

“Lyney is slow.” Lynette shrugged, gracefully dodging Lyney’s attempted tackle.

He grunted as instead of dirt, he fell onto the familiar warmth of Freminet’s hand. “And I said using your vision was cheating!” He grumbled as Freminet’s hand closed around him and lifted him up to the shining blue eyes of his brother. “What?”

“Mean.” Freminet fake-pouted. “The Traveler said she would be back soon, and that you took too long, so she was going to do her commissions real quick.”

“Left our poor brother all alone.” Lyney grumbled playfully, nudging at Freminet’s grip.

“In broad daylight, in the middle of the Court, with no more threat of Primordial Dissolution.” Lynette mocked.

Lyney began to fight against Freminet. “You’re so lucky I’m caught by a human right now!”

Freminet laughed brightly, causing the twins to freeze and look at him in awe. It was the happiest sound they had heard him make since they met. There was an ease of his shoulders, his face was smoothed of any worry, almost perfectly carefree.

“I thank the Archons everyday, that I met you two.” Freminet said softly after calming down, a smile still nestled on his face. “I couldn’t ask for anything else in the world more precious.”

The twins exchanged a look. 

“I’m glad we took the chance and trusted you.” They said in-sync. 

“Wow, that's so sweet.” The siblings twisted to see the Traveler who waved silently, as well as Paimon as she poked her head out of the Traveler’s scarf, smiling as she continued. “We got done pretty quick. One was actually from Monsieur Neuvillette.”

“That’s unusual, usually any commissions are  handled by the Melusines.” Freminet shrugged, gently picking up Lynette and unfurling his hands beneath the twins. “What was it for?”

“Just some documents that needed to be delivered to multiple people. We were the fastest option since the Traveler can use the waypoints.” Paimon explained.

“How is our dear Traveler today?” Lyney asked, turning to the Outlander. She blinked before shrugging, causing Paimon to shriek in protest.

“I’m fine.” She raised an eyebrow at the expectant silence. “Sorry, I… just got back from a trip to Sumeru and something just feels wrong at the moment, I just can’t place it.”

“Yeah Traveler didn’t sleep at all last night. It’s really worrying Paimon.” The tiny girl frowned.

“That’s not good, you need your rest.” Freminet hummed. “Especially you, you’re constantly running around, you’re bound to be exhausted.”

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to worry you with this.” The Traveler shook her head and placed a hand over her heart. 

“It’s okay.” The siblings chuckled as they spoke in tandem. 

“Let’s go find somewhere I can set up a cooking pot, I’ll make us lunch.” The Traveler smiled.

“Yes! Food!” Paimon cheered, causing the group to laugh.

“It never ceases to amaze me how Paimon can eat a human-sized portion and still act hungry.” Lyney commented as the humans began to walk towards the north-west exit to the Court. “Where does it all go? Perhaps she can teach me a few new tricks.”

“Lyney.” Lynette groaned at the pun.

“What dear sister?” He teased, moving to poke her ticklish stomach, causing the girl to squirm before pouncing on her brother and further engaging in a tickle war.

Freminet just sighed as he moved his hands to contain them both, making them protest briefly at the sudden darkness before going back to play-fighting. He glanced at the Traveler who was fighting back laughter.

“You would think they’re the younger ones sometimes.” He said before laughing softly.

“They trust you so much.” She nodded, smiling back. “One thing I’ve learned about borrowers is that they are forced to grow up so quickly… them acting childish and playing is a testament to their belief that you will keep them safe so they can be at ease.” An unknown expression crossed her face as she turned away. “Protect that trust. Okay?”

“Of course.” Freminet nodded.

After a minute more of walking they came to a stop at a small wooded clearing, an obvious campsite.

“This is usually where I hide my Teapot when in Fontaine, if I’m in the area and its night time this is where you can usually find me.” The Traveler said, placing down a carpet and then summoning a cook pot that floated, likely some device she had picked up.

Freminet took the opportunity to pull his hands apart and fought to keep his expression calm as the twins were trying to fix their hair back from the disasters they had become.

“Do not laugh.” Lyney hissed at him. 

It only became harder as a soft snort escaped him, causing the Traveler to glance over and let out a sharp laugh.

“Damnit Freminet!” Lyney’s face quickly reddened and he buried it in his hands. Lynette began giggling at her twin, teasing him just out of Freminet’s hearing range.

“What are you making?” Freminet asked after a moment, curious at the various things the Traveler had laid out in preparation. 

“Just wait.” Was the reply.

Soon after, the Traveler presented several different dishes, a mish-mash of cuisine from the nations they had passed through. Freminet had watched in awe as Paimon did indeed inhale a massive portion of food relative to her size, meanwhile Lyney and Lynette picked their way through the dishes, trying them and eagerly talking about the differences. Though at some point a Sumerian dish caught them both off-guard with the spice levels and bottles of milk were opened.

Overall the meal was pleasant and Freminet found himself enjoying the Liyuen foods the most, besides the familiar Fontainian cuisine. He noticed the Traveler taking interest in the foods he did, asking him what he liked about each one. It felt oddly pleasant, to describe his likes and dislikes so casually. 

Soon enough the meal was finished, and Freminet got up to help the Traveler put everything away.

“Thank you.” She turned at the quiet words and shook her head.

“Don’t thank me, I like to cook. It’s one of the few skills that doesn’t really require specific knowledge, just an idea of an ingredient's flavor and preparation.” There was another unreadable emotion that passed in her eyes as she turned away. “I’m still not perfect with Teyvat’s Common language, so I may not have described that feeling very well.”

“I understand.” Freminet smiled, gazing down at the dish he was drying off. “I’m the same way with meka. I may not know exactly how everything works, but I know enough, and learning more is never boring.”

The Traveler hummed before hiding a yawn. 

“Traveler!” The two turned at Paimon’s yell, the blonde sighing as she reached up and caught the tiny girl mid-air. “It’s late, if you wait any later you won't sleep…” She pouted from the Traveler’s grip. “And Paimon can’t stand it if you don’t sleep, you have worse nightmares later.”

“Fine fine.”She sighed, sending a tired glance at Freminet. “It’s a bit far to trek back to the Court, I can get a Realm Dispatch for you and the twi-...Lyney and Lynette. If you want to, there's places for both sizes to sleep comfortably, Paimon made sure of that.”

Freminet noticed the stutter in the Traveler’s speech but knew better than to say anything, electing to nod. “I’ll ask them.”

“Alright.” He saw her pull out the Adeptal Teapot before he turned away to walk back to his siblings. 

“Everything alright?” Lyney asked, clamoring into Freminet’s offered hand, helping Lynette up as well. “Paimon took off when the Traveler yawned.”

“Yes, she just wanted the Traveler to go to bed while sleepy since if she doesn’t she may not sleep at all.” Freminet explained as he brought the twins up to his heart, hugging them softly against himself, feeling them begin to purr. “She invited us to sleep in the Teapot Realm, since it’s a bit far back to the Court.”

“Sounds nice, I’m tired.” Lynette hummed, already curling up against Lyney’s warmth, kneading at Freminet’s hand.

“I’m with Lynette on this one, I don’t think any of us would make it home anyhow.” Lyney chuckled.

“Fair enough.” Freminet smiled, walking towards the Traveler as she reappeared from the Teapot.

“Perfect timing. Are you joining us?” She asked, glancing amusedly at the twins in his hands. “They look as tired as I feel.”

“Yeah I think they’re ready to pass out and so am I admittedly.” Freminet glanced away bashfully. “Thank you for inviting us to stay.”

“Here.” He blinked as the Traveler placed a necklace carefully over his head. He glanced down at the wooden charm that hung from it. “It’s the Realm Dispatch, as long as you have it, you can tap on it while imagining the Teapot to teleport there. Any borrowers that are in reaching distance will be teleported too.” At his raised eyebrow she laughed. “Since Paimon flies it was just easier that way instead of constantly having to hold her to work.”

He hummed in understanding, smiling amusedly at that mental image. With a moment of coaching he finally got the charm to work, his eyes wide in awe at the Abode. It was decorated like a mini town center, with the Main House obvious as it towered over the other buildings.

He followed the Traveler, awe-struck into silence as they entered the Main House. She chuckled at him and led him to one of the many rooms, quietly pointing out the human bed and the borrower-accessible only alcove. She then left them alone to go to her own room and crash for the night.

“It’s so peaceful here. No wonder the Traveler can go so many places and look well-rested.” Lyney said before yawning. “Still, it’s late. C’mon dear sister, we just have to climb some steps.”

“Don’t wanna.” Lynette grumbled, but followed Lyney into the walls without much more fuss. Freminet listened before relaxing at the two solid knocks from higher up the wall, they had made it to their own room perfectly fine.

He slowly began to shed his unnecessary clothes and stored them in his inventory, switching to pajamas. He slowly crawled into the Mondstadt-styled bed and was asleep before his head hit the pillow.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••(@v@)•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

A sharp breath filled Freminet’s lungs as he jack-knifed awake, his eyes wide as he felt Lyney and Lynette were not where they were last night, nor were they anywhere around him. His mind shot back to when Father had taken them without him even knowing, had it happened again?

Was the Traveler okay? If someone had snuck into the Abode and kidnapped his siblings, what else could they have done?

He threw on proper battle clothes as quickly as possible, feeling the sharp cold of Cryo wrapping around him, keeping him alert as he left the Abode, Claymore at the ready.

“SURPRISE!”

His heart stopped for a moment at the loud noise, only to zero in on his siblings, standing safely on a table, Lady Clervie standing behind them and smiling at him knowingly. As he relaxed he realized the ensemble of humans and borrowers, people that he had met and helped alongside the Traveler and throughout the Prophecy Crisis.

His eyes began to water as he dismissed his claymore, taking in the decorations that looked like Pers and Rosseland, the cake and treats. Dishes that he recognized as the ones that the Traveler had noted that he had enjoyed.

He smiled. “Thank you.”

He blinked as a hand settled on his shoulder, and he felt his heart leap back into his throat as Father stood beside him, her gaze sharp, only to soften slightly as her grip tightened slightly. “Happy Birthday, Freminet.”

“Happy Birthday!” Chorused through the room.

[seraph-of-sizes]

sorry for all the radio silence, ive been ridiculously busy.

however, i do have two writings almost done: the next chapter of BHoDS, as well as a birthday special for Freminet since his birthday is in a week

just a quick update <3

[seraph-of-sizes]

A little thing I've been working on

I really like the idea of Giant!Aether and normal Lumine, I think it could really effect their dynamic

without lighting and shading

close ups

Maybe before Lumine has the chance to escape through a portal or smth, Aether snatches her up because he wants to talk, but Lumine has more sympathy for him because he's going through being a giant in this new world all alone, contrary to her going through teyvat normal-sized

[seraph-of-sizes]

BHoDS Prelude: Fire and Ice

Short one-off that is Arlecchino and Clervie centric within the world of my Broken Home AU

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“This will be your new home.” The young girl glanced up at the red-headed woman, her white and black bangs hiding her x-pupiled eyes.

The land of Fontaine had doused the worst of her curse for now, but as she listened half-heartedly to the woman, ‘Mother’ she was to be called, she felt the Balefire still burning in her chest. 

She drifted through the halls of the House, coming to terms with this new normal. She slowly mapped out the layout, hidden rooms, cubbies and nooks that looked untouched. Enough places to rotate hiding from the other children trapped here with her.

Crucabena, or the Knave, was one of the Harbingers of the Fatui, and Peruere watched from the sidelines as she pitted the older children against each other. The losers were given as fodder to another Harbinger, Dottore.

She found herself bitterly closed off from anyone else, content to play with the bugs and spiders in the yard instead. She knew her time was coming where she would have to participate in those battles, for the title of ‘King’. 

She had seen the last victor perish against Mother. She had watched the fight, not out of curiosity, but only to gather more information. Did Mother have a weakness?

She hissed as her hands burned, black char crossing over her wrists. This was bad, it had never been that far before.

She closed her eyes and took a deep breath. Emotions were the enemy, she had to resolve them and push them out. She slowly sat down in the shade of the big Linden tree, the bark of the trunk pressed into her back, grounding her.

“That doesn’t look good.” 

Her eyes shot open and darted around, her heart pounding. How had she not noticed someone approaching? Where did they go? “Hello?”

“I-um I’m really not, supposed to show myself…” Peruere had to stop from immediately zeroing in on the voice now. But she knew they were somewhere to her left, lower. Which no normal human could have spoken from there without her seeing them. 

“I won’t look.” She spoke up after a moment, her voice sounded foreign in her ears. It also cracked and wavered from disuse. “Who are you?”

“You can call me Clervie. I’m… I’m a borrower.” She furrowed her brow, a borrower? Was that an animal or a divine creature of some kind?

“What is a borrower?” She asked, letting her curiosity win this time.

There was a faint rustle. “Well, it's… easier if you can see.” Peruere’s eyes drifted to the noise and her eyes widened at the inconceivably tiny girl standing within the grass. “We’re- borrowers I mean, we um live around humans and borrow the necessary things we need to survive.”

“Aren’t you afraid?” Peruere stared at the girl, Clervie in shock. “So small…”

“Well, yeah, but what’s the point in living if you don’t take risks?” Clervie grinned, her eyes shining. “Besides I’ve lived in the Hearth for a few years now, and you’re the first to not scream that I’m a ghost or something. You’re really smart, I just know it!”

“That doesn’t make someone less dangerous. Usually the other way around.” She warned the girl, holding up a hand, before blinking in shock at the completely receded char, only her blackened fingertips remained. “That-”

“lt worked!” Her gaze shot over to Clervie.

“What did you do?” Her heart thudded, horrified that whatever was done would pass along her curse. She wouldn’t wish it upon anyone.

“My vision is Cryo! It helps me to soothe the wounds and ailments of those that I talk to. Think of it like… oh no what’s the human word for emotion doctor….” 

“Therapist?” Something about the rapid nod from the tiny red-head made a smile form on Peruere’s face. It shocked her and she tried to hold onto that brief moment of joy and happiness. 

“Ahah! You can smile!” Clervie clapped, jumping up and down excitedly. “You should smile more, you’re so pretty when you do!”

“Thank you.” She let the expression drop slowly, bitter that it was so fleeting. She slowly stood up, watching as Clervie stumbled, both out of instinctual fear and also because craning her neck threw her balance off. “My name is Peruere.”

“Bye Peruere.” The borrower girl waved before darting back into the taller grasses.

Slowly Peruere noticed Clervie more often, hidden in shadows of the hallways. Tiny footprints in the dust of those abandoned nooks, notches in furniture legs for foot and hand holds. But the girl only showed herself outside, the tree was now their unofficial meeting spot. 

Months passed quickly and slowly Peruere opened up more and more to Clervie, her only friend.

“You look worn out Perrie.” She grumbled softly as she lay down on the grass, not caring about the possible grass stains. She laid her head on her arms and peered blearily at the red-head.

“Mother has me learning how to use my Balefire, it…hurts. But I must get it under control, next year I will be a fighter in the King’s Gambit.” She buried her head into her arms, eyes drifting to the charred skin flaking up to her mid-forearms now. She felt Clervie climb up onto her arms and nudge at her head.

“C’mon Perrie, let me see.” Reluctantly, she raised her head, staring at how bold the girl had become around her. She could feel the tiny weight pressed into her upper arm as Clervie took stock of her curse. “It’s so much farther… Perrie…”

The soft whine made her heart ache, knowing she was worrying Clervie. 

“I know… it’ll be easier after I become King. I’ll get to make the rules then.” She reached up and gently ruffled Clervie’s hair, smiling at the loud protests. The black faded slowly back down her arms, leaving just her hands singed. She breathed a little easier again and her eyes closed in contentment.

Her eyes shot open as she barely dodged the sword aimed at her throat. She had just won the King’s Gambit, blood still coated her clothes. Despite her victory, the sight before her made her heart burn with rage, black singing her arms as her Balefire erupted. Everything blurred as Peruere lunged at Crucabena, the tiny being held in the Knave’s grip was struggling fiercely. Blood was rushing in her ears as she fought, the only words on her lips were the grateful pleas she gave to the Archons that their Oaths had protected her only friend. After a moment of backpedaling against Peruere’s attacks, Crucabena was forced to discard Clervie and Peruere had to stop herself from chasing after her friend.

She had ‘Mother’ cornered. 

Water whipped at her but her Balefire turned it into steam.

Her only friend had been dangling from this monster’s hand like some doll about to be discarded.

And how ironic of her to call someone else a monster.

She snarled at the cuts that embedded into her skin, feeling her body burning white-hot with anger.

“Perrie!” 

The world slowed. She turned and saw Clervie trapped by rubble, unharmed but distressed.

All of her anger vanished.

Nothing mattered now except Clervie.

Crucabena was going to die.

Her kick connected, sending the woman flying, only to be intercepted by another kick, sending her into the vaulted glass ceiling. Peruere watched, detached, as the Knave fell lifeless back to the ground, body landing with a sickening thud and crunch.

She had won.

She was the new King.

Silently she moved and began clearing the rubble, freeing Clercie who looked up at her sadly. “Perrie… you’re hurt.”

“I’m okay..you’re okay.” Peruere sank to her knees, cradling her best friend, her Balefire receding at the soothing cold from Clervie. “Let's…go home…”

[seraph-of-sizes]

Broken Homes of Different Sizes pt11

Borrower Lyney and Lynette, Human Freminet (Slight au with borrowers existing, everything else is the same as canon)

—----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Freminet’s eyes opened and darted to the open window.

The sky was lightening slowly, the break of dawn his perpetual alarm clock for his days serving the Hearth. He bit his lip as he slowly got up and got ready for the day, more sluggish than usual after sleeping in for a whole week. He meticulously gathered his diving suit, hooking his vision on and switching to the new Claymore he had been gifted before leaving his room.

It was early, and he tried to be as quiet as possible. He wasn’t excited to have to say goodbye to the twins if he was given an away mission today, so he avoided it.

He left the house, locking the door and making the quick trip to Hotel Bouffes d’ete, better known as the front for the House of the Hearth. 

Stalking quietly through the halls, he easily avoided the gazes and idle chatter of the other Children, making his way diligently to Father’s office. He idly made note of the influx of new faces, and what seemed like a shared fear of water, them flinching at the sound of a faucet being turned on.

Finally, as the sun peeked over the horizon, he knocked on Father’s door.

“Come in.”

He set his shoulders and let himself slip into his obedient protocols, entering the room and bowing as soon as Arlecchino turned to face him.

“Good morning Freminet.” She hummed, the click of her nails drumming against her desk.

“Good morning Father.”

“I believe we have some things to discuss about your previous week, yes?” He swallowed roughly as he was suddenly reminded that she had been listening in on him over his ‘vacation’. “Does the term ‘borrower’ hold any significance to you?”

“Yes Father.” He felt sick. “There are fairytales about a tiny race of people that live alongside humans, borrowing what they need in order to survive.”

He felt her gaze burn heavy on him. “And?”

“A-and…” Freminet swallowed. He couldn’t lie. Not to Father. Not when she could take away everything, could hurt his siblings. “And I have encountered them… borrowers. Twins they- they don’t know about the Hearth o-or the Fatui! They're no threat to you, I promise.”

“Very good. Raise your head.” He slowly looked up and felt his heart seize in his chest.

On Father’s desk, underneath a bowl made of red glass that he had seen filled with candies and fruits and any number of trinkets, the twins were huddled in fear, clinging to each other in a way that made Freminet want to charge Father- and that itself was a horrific thought. “Their names?”

“Lyney… and Lynette.” He whispered, eyes completely focused on his siblings. They peered back at him, Lyney’s shoulders eased just a little, almost unnoticeably, and Lynette’s ears flicked towards him before settling back against her head. They were trusting him to get them out of this mess. 

“Hiding them from me was irresponsible of you, Freminet.” He watched as Father easily lifted the glass bowl up. “Come here, take them.”

It was the fastest he had moved in a while, picking the twins up and cradling them against his chest, shielding them with his body as best as he could. As much as he wished that this would be the end of the conversation, he also knew Father. There was something else.

“I believe they could prove quite useful in your next mission.” He felt the twins flinch at the casual integration of their use to the House. Father called the shots here, this was her House more than theirs, the crowned King. They would listen, or die.

“Yes Father.” He felt his heart shatter at the quiet protests from the twins, trying to subtly reassure them by raising his hands up to his heart.

“I suppose a debriefing would help you understand the severity of this mission.” Arlecchino laced her hands together and Freminet felt her red-x eyes boring into his very soul. “The prophecy of Fontaine, the Great Flood of Dissolution.”

Freminet felt his blood run cold, colder than his own Cryo vision. 

“The peoples of Fontaine had invoked a sin that will lead to Fontaine sinking into the waves, and its people dissolved into the waters, leaving the Hydro Archon all alone on her throne to weep.” He nodded slowly, the prophecy had become more discussed as the towns at the base of the Fontaine Mesa were abandoned due to rising sea levels. “At my command some of the other children have been looking into possible short term solutions, including yourself if you recall.”

Freminet did, he had been ordered on several occasions to go on diving missions both in the Fontaine Sea and the waters between Fontaine and Sumeru. One of those trips had included his brief discovery of the ruins of Remuria but they had been protected by a large chained whale of sorts and he had been ordered to leave it alone.

“Yes, Father.” 

She seemed to relax her body language. “Your new mission is to discover the origin of the prophecy and any leads on how to stop it. This will be your only task until the prophecy concludes, am I understood?” 

“Yes, Father.” He bowed.

“Good.” He slowly raised his head up and stepped forward at her beckoning. “Show me them.”

He hesitated briefly before unfurling his hands, but not moving them anywhere towards her. The twins were tense as they were met with a staring match with Father.

“Looking into my eyes is ill-advised. You will not like what you see.” She hummed. Freminet felt his hands warm as Lyney’s vision began producing heat. “I believe Freminet here is your OathKeeper, yes?”

Freminet went to answer but was cowed at the sharp look he was given. He was not part of this conversation.

“Yes.” Both Lyney and Freminet turned to Lynette in shock as she stepped forwards, speaking up. 

“Then I believe it would be best if you both swore an Oath to me.” Freminet froze as Lyney began to whisper rapidly to Lynette. If he swore an Oath and that kept them safe from him, what would swearing an Oath to a human do? “You aren’t as informed as I had thought, unfortunate.”

“Freminet.” He glanced up at Father. “Being their OathKeeper you are able to take on any injuries they sustain, you can sense them anywhere innately, you Keep them safe.”

She stood up and walked around her desk to stand in front of them, making Freminet tense even further at the sudden proximity. “As for a borrower swearing an Oath to a human…” Father’s gaze dropped back to the twins. “OathKept cannot be harmed by anything or anyone while OathBound, however they are forced to obey any orders given by the human they swore an Oath to. They are Bound, or more aptly, Kept.”

“In return for our obedience, you are offering us complete safety.” Lynette clarified, her ears still folded back and her tail standing on end, but her voice didn’t waver.

“Hm.” Father’s lips curled into a smirk. “Precisely.” 

The twins exchanged a look with each other before turning to look up at Freminet. Slowly he realized they were trying to get his opinion. He swallowed roughly. On one hand, Father was right. He had stepped too far out of line and had involved himself with the twins, they were tied to him because of the Oath on his vision. They were liabilities.

On the other hand, swearing their loyalty to Father meant being forever tied to the House of the Hearth. Once you were a part of the House you can never leave, as to leave is to betray, and betrayal is a death sentence. They would be safe physically, but mentally? Freminet’s mind flashed to crimson blood coating the hands on which they stood and he felt his stomach churn in horror. While their size would never put them quite as directly into conflict as he had been subjected to, Archons know what their missions would entail.

He would never have to worry about them being hurt. 

He would have to subject them to the world of the Fatui.

They could be tortured physically.

They could be tortured mentally.

They were tied to him.

He could change that.

“We agree to your terms.” His eyes widened in terror at Lyney’s words and the world crashed into him like a speeding Waverider. “Freminet would tear himself apart trying to come to a decision, and with the life we’ve seen glimpses of his world is more dangerous than most humans. If that is the life we’re now tangled in, the safety you’re offering is likely our best hand.”

“Very well.” Freminet watched, completely detached from his own body, as the twins unhooked their visions and held them up. “Swear your loyalty to me, Arlecchino, King of the House of the Hearth.”

“We swear.” The twins announced, their visions glowing, each forming a strand that reached into the air and disappeared behind her back, curving up towards her nape, where her vision sat.

After a moment the twins collapsed, unconscious and Freminet looked up, startled, as he closed his hands around them protectively. “What happened?

“It takes a lot of energy to make an Oath. For humans, it often isn’t much more than what energy is spent in a day. And for Vision holders like us, it’s far less noticeable.”  Arlecchino hummed. “For borrowers, it is enough energy to send them immediately into a recharging sleep. They will be fine, alert them when they wake up that their mission is the same as yours, investigate the prophecy until it is stopped or concluded.” 

“Yes, Father.” Freminet bowed.

She walked back towards her seat, pausing to look out her window. “Good, you’re dismissed.”

“Yes, Father.” He didn’t waste another moment, tucking the twins into a protected pocket on his hip, he bolted out of the office and bee-lined back home.

•••

“Perrie, you could’ve been a little nicer. I think you scared them all pretty badly” 

Arlecchino laughed softly, glancing at the young woman peeking out from the curtains at the edges of the window. She offered a hand to the tiny woman, smiling as the Oath they shared pulsed between them, her curse receding ever so slightly.

“I think I have found the next King, Clervie.”

[seraph-of-sizes]

Broken Homes of Different Sizes pt10

Borrower Lyney and Lynette, Human Freminet (Slight au with borrowers existing, everything else is the same as canon)

—--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The trek to the garden didn’t take long, and thankfully it looked like they were the only ones around. Freminet walked the perimeter quickly, just to make sure, before crouching down and pulling Lyney and Lynette out of his pocket.

“I’m going to lay down for a bit, go ahead and gather whatever you need and then come back when you’re done ok?” He whispered softly to the two borrowers.

“Ok.” Lynette smiled and Lyney nodded his agreement as well.

“We won’t take too long.” Lyney promised.

“Alright.” Freminet watched as the two disappeared into one of the many plants and layed down on his back, staring at the slowly darkening sky.

Dread slowly crept into the silence as he began turning over Father’s words in his mind. She had been spying on him, which he should have suspected, but he had never had anything other than his tears to hide from her before.

Was he hiding the twins? Was that how she viewed it? 

He hadn’t mentioned them at all, but he didn’t speak much about the Hearth to them either. So, why….?

He sat up and summoned Pers from his inventory, silently observing the meka penguin. He knew every bolt and line of code that comprised his friend. He knew if Pers was damaged he could fix him.

But if the twins got hurt… they weren’t machines. They were living, breathing people. Like him. Like every child of the Hearth. 

He couldn’t let them get hurt. A thought dug into his mind and he grimaced, trying to physically shake it out. It wouldn’t help to distance himself now. It would just hurt them more, and Father would find them if she really viewed them as potential threats (or leverage).

Pers clicked softly, a soft chime playing to ground him back into reality. He smiled and dismissed his friend back into his inventory.

He glanced around the garden from his spot, watching the sunlight dim into the golden hour. Turning his head, he noticed a stack of herbs nearby, likely what had been collected so far. Freminet carefully sorted through the greenery and realized they had collected something he knew they had no use for.

A Romaritime flower bud.

He carefully picked it up and held it gently in his hands. With a moment of concentration the bud was covered in a layer of frost, only to melt as Freminet breathed over it, the melted ice seeping into the petals and he smiled as the flower bloomed. 

“Freminet!” A soft yelp came from the cryo user as his head shot up and he began glancing around immediately. After a moment he zeroed in on his- the siblings, and he set down the flower on their pile.

“Oh you got it to bloom.” Lynette poked at the flower curiously. Lyney dropped the rest of his haul back on the pile and joined his sister in prodding at the flower. 

“It’s a Romaritime flower. It blooms when it reacts to water, they're mostly found underwater for that reason, but some grow on the shores.” Freminet explained as he began sorting the herbs into bundles. “Where did you find one up here?”

“It was growing right by the waterway at the edge.” Lyney pointed, Freminet glanced in the direction and froze. Standing at the edge of the garden was the Iudex of Fontaine himself, Monsieur Neuvillette. And, sure enough, the man was bent over slightly, examining a Romaritime stalk.

“We need to go.” He quickly scooped up the gathered materials and put them into his inventory, holding out a hand to the twins while keeping an eye on the Iudex. “There’s someone else here now.”

“Are you talking about the man in blue?” Lyney asked slowly, stepping onto the outstretched hand without hesitation, followed quickly by Lynette.

“Yes?” Freminet’s brows knit together as he glanced down at the eldest, carefully holding them as he stood up.

“He’s on good terms with borrowers, we can never sneak well enough around Melusines to not get caught, but they’re all very loyal to him and he made them all promise to never put our kind in danger.” Lyney explained. “Mother used to tell us that, if we ever got separated from each other, to find a Melusine or the Dragon of Justice.”

“That is a title I haven’t heard in quite some time.”

Freminet felt his heart shoot into his throat as he realized he had stopped keeping an eye on the Iudex, and now there was a shadow looming over him. He felt panic burn through his veins as he stared down at Lyney and Lynette, pulling them closer to his body and scooting back and away from the Judge of Fontaine. As he looked up properly at the man for the first time he realized there was more space between them, as if he had backed away from Freminet as well.

“I apologize, I didn’t mean to frighten you.” The man glanced between Freminet and the twins. “It has been a long time since I have seen an OathKeeper.”

“I-Is that a good thing?” Freminet asked slowly, horrified at this whole interaction.

Neuvillette hummed, before shaking his head. “It pains me to say that kindness like yours is rare, but it is good that you are kind.” He turned his gaze onto the twins and Freminet had to fight the urge to cover them completely. “I do hope your Keeper has been kind, has he?”

“Freminet is a wonderful person.” Lyney crossed his arms. “He’s the kindest human we’ve ever met by a long shot. But you are stressing him out. A lot.”

Neuvillette nodded slowly. “I see.” He slowly placed a hand against his chest. “If you ever have questions or need help, feel free to ask any Melusines you come across, they will be able to see your Oath. They’ll help you as best they can, or they will alert me so I can assist as well.” After a moment he glanced away. “My dinner break has concluded; I wish you all a good night.”

Freminet watched as Neuvillette turned and began walking back into the streets of Fontaine, the evening lamps slowly brightening as he walked out of sight.

“Your heart is beating really fast.” Freminet laughed sharply at the deadpan observation from Lynette.

“That was terrifying.” He admitted, carefully placing the twins back into his pocket, beginning his own trek home. “The Iudex himself talked to us…that usually only happens if you're on trial.” 

“Hopefully you never end up on trial then.” Lyney chuckled. “Even knowing he was safe, it was still stressful to be seen by a human.”

Freminet hummed in agreement, slowly making his way through the streets of the Court of Fontaine back to his home. Silence began to stretch amongst the trio as Freminet walked. 

Freminet swallowed roughly, the hairs on his neck prickling with the feeling of being watched. He turned at the glint of reddish metal in the corner of his eye, only to see nothing there. 

“You’re certainly out late.” 

Freminet felt his heart stop as he spun around at the sudden voice, just barely recognizing it time to not summon his claymore.

“Miss Navia.” He placed a hand over his rapidly beating heart, brushing over the twins to assure himself they were okay as well. “You scared me.”

A nervous laugh came from the well-dressed blonde. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to. You’re usually pretty hard to scare after all. Something on your mind?”

“Uhm… Not really. Just… tired I guess.” Freminet bit his cheek, why was it so hard to talk with people? The twins were so easy to be open to… compared to everyone else.

“How about I treat you to some sweets? As an apology for scaring you?” Navia suggested, a look of concern easily readable on her face.

“N-no that’s alright.” Freminet shook his head. Normally he would have just gone along, but he couldn’t risk a) the twins being found out somehow or b) staying up too late and missing his report time to Father in the morning. “You already apologized, and I-I have a commission tomorrow morning so I can’t stay up much longer…” Half-truths were his strength, he knew that.

“Ah, well alright.” Navia frowned, and Freminet just barely noticed the way her hand drifted to a small pouch at her waist, one that seemed to move. “Be careful going home then…Especially with the disappearances happening lately.”

Freminet swallowed.

 The disappearing women’s case.

“I think you should be more worried than me, Miss Navia…” He shook his head. “I-I should walk you to the Fleuve Cendre… just y’know- in case…”

“I’ll be-” Navia began before stopping. She sighed, placing her hand to her head. “Sorry.. Thank you for the offer, it would be rude to say no when you’re just worrying about me.”

“Okay.” Freminet nodded, but the conversation seemed odd, as if Navia wasn’t just speaking to him but someone else… too…

Surely not.

He quietly began walking towards the entrance to the Fleuve Cendre, watching as Navia fell into step with him. Silently he tried to think back on the few times he had seen the blonde woman acting oddly before.

The first time the two had met was right after one of his assassinations under Lady Crucabena. He was very young then, 8 or 9 most likely. He had been escaping through one of the currents in the waters when he had gotten knocked off course by an Armored Crab. The current he had been dragged into then pulled him into Poisson’s waters where he was pulled out by Callas, the leader of the Spina di Rosula and Navia’s father. He had helped him get patched up, dried off, and even gave him food and water. It was while he was eating that Navia had bounced up to him and asked if he wanted to play. He couldn’t remember much about exactly what they did, just that it had been the most fun he had had since his mom had passed away.

Their next meeting was a few years ago, after Callas had been killed in the duel for acquittal. He had found Navia on one of the islands on the Fontaine Sea, crying. He had wanted to leave her alone but she spotted him and had waved him over. They had talked for a while, mostly Navia talking and Freminet listening. Once she had calmed somewhat she began to tell him stories about borrowers, and that her father had told her those stories before bed each night.

“Do you believe in them?” Navia had asked softly.

“I couldn’t say I do, but I believe that you believe in them.”

“Okay… I think I can accept that.”

He glanced back at Navia as they reached the Fleuve Cendre��s hotel. She smiled at him, thanking him softly for bringing her here safely. There was a weight on her shoulders that hurt him to see, it was like looking into the past again.

“Miss Navia?” He blurted out, swallowing as she turned back at the address.

“Yes?” She smiled, hiding a yawn with her hand.

“I- um…” He glanced away, swallowing his nerves. “I believe in them now.”

There was a short pause as the woman stared at him blankly, before realization dawned on her face. “Oh.” She smiled and placed a hand over her heart, her other hand straying down to the bag at her waist again. “I’m glad. Thank you, Freminet.”

“Goodnight Miss Navia.” He waved with a small smile as she turned and entered the building leaving him alone.

After a moment to collect himself, he began to walk back home, single-minded focus enough for him to miss the small red spider that had darted back into the shadows as the entrance to the Fleuve Cendre closed behind him.

[seraph-of-sizes]

I FOUND THIS IN MY DRAFTS

This one goes out to all my fellow bigs 💕

Using a tiny cryo user as an ice pack.

Slightly a crack idea but it's in my brain:

Kaeya: would be surprised and amused but probably offer to help. You've never had a flirty ice pack before.

Chongyun: error sound - totally willing to help you with pain but embarrassed at this method. He ends up heating up so probably not the best ice pack unless he offers himself.

Diona: no, you will be bitten or scratched. She might stay if you just set her down, but don't hold her. After you've let her go, she *may* stay.

Ganyu: She frets over you during. A little flustered to be here, but too much more concerned over you to want to resist. She even adds more ice in small amounts if guided to the right spots.

Rosaria: she doesn't like to be manhandled very much- she will fight your fingers. If you ask nicely, she might by climb up and settle in place. She will want to make sure she can still keep an eye on her surroundings.

Qiqi: she's so sweet, will stay in place where she's set. You should remind her to get up and take stretch breaks. She likes to help though and will be very soothing (will even add heals if you request).

Eula: she swears vengeance on your family line for this. She won't flee, but she will grudgingly assist you. She is not as cold as some other cryo users, and she's particular about how you pose her.

Ayaka: She is honored to help and may overachieve, shifting to try and be more useful. You may need to request she relaxes if you want peace throughout this.

Layla: She will fall asleep. You're so warm compared to her and you've offered a cozy little spot for her to settle. She gives off cold in small pulses and it's nice.

Shenhe: She is confused. If this is what she can do as your friend though, she will gladly stay and help. She is pretty stiff so you may have to give her pretty clear instructions of where to relax.

Mika: Yet another flustered tiny. He's somewhat fidgety and wants to be helpful so he'll ask where you need the most attention and move there.

Charlotte: She's fascinated by your request, asking that you would let her investigate or write about the experience. It's up to you, but if you agree, she'll probably be taking notes the whole time. You may need to keep a hand nearby to support her so she doesn't risk falling in her focus state

Freminet: He's surprised you would ask this of him, but very open to helping. He gets comfy, even sleepy at times, peacefully settled against you. He likes how peacefully quiet it is with you and enjoys staying in pockets and such where he can have your companionship but his own 'personal space.'

Wriothesley: He squirms so much. Doesn't love being handled or having to settle against one spot. He might cool himself to be too cold or just keep being squirmy until you let go. You have to be determined to use this little guy as an ice pack

Again these are just silly little hcs ^^

[seraph-of-sizes]

off topic per my usual writings being genshin themed, wuthering waves is so good holy crap

once i have a better feel for the characters i may write something

so any wuwa enjoyers in the g/t realm, feel free to send any ideas my way, just try not to put any huge spoilers just yet :D

[seraph-of-sizes]

This makes me happy 🤍🩵

[seraph-of-sizes]

I'm probably not gonna stop making these

paimon ended up being a teacher the entire (thought she taught aether the entire time they ended up knowing each other until he was fluent but I ain't drawing all that)

[seraph-of-sizes]

Big Bard

Part 2 to this ask: https://www.tumblr.com/seraph-of-sizes/736693556403683328/as-i-saidi-am-giving-u-this-rn-so-i-know-am?source=share

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“Wendy.” You glanced up from your adventuring pack, smiling at your mother. “You’re still going on this fool's errand I see.”

“Yes ma’am.” You smiled cheekily, watching her face fall into a stern look that you knew far too well. You lightly tapped the anemo vision that hung straight over your heart, a firm reminder of the faith that your mother had instilled in you of Lord Barbatos, as well as your own ability to wield the element of Anemo. “I’ll be fine.”

Gloria sighed, the sound just as familiar to you now as it was years ago when you told her of the giant bard you had met as a child. “Be sure to say goodbye to your siblings. Don’t you dare forget Glory, she worries for you every time you leave Mond, especially after that Goodwin fellow she’s smitten with up and left with Grandmaster Varka. Barbatos guide them.”

“I will Mom, don’t worry.” Your mom took care of many of the orphaned or unsupervised children of Mond, which had left you a little bitter in your early teenage years, but now you loved all of them, and leaving without saying goodbye would make you feel sick to your stomach. “Besides I’m just going up to Dornman Port, I’ll still be in Mondstadt.”

“I know, I know…just be careful. Our border with Scheznaya is near there, and with the Fatui causing their usual problems…I just worry.” You nodded, giving your mom a quick hug. She took a deep breath, as if having you in her arms grounded her.

“Well.” She slowly pulled away. “I suppose you should get going before the sun goes down.”

“I’ll be back soon, I promise.” You smile, putting on your backpack and securing your straps. “And I’ll be sure to write as soon as I arrive, okay?”

“Alright.” Your mom nodded, her hand reaching up to worry her rosary between her fingers. “I love you.”

“Love you too!” As you left the house the wind danced around you, playing with your hair and carrying the scent of apples. You followed the wind as you said your goodbyes to your siblings, and waved at the townsfolk that had watched you grow up.

Leaving the gates of Mond, the wind always felt sharper, angrier. As if it wasn’t just a friend, but a protector and a guide. Kind of like a guard dog. You cautiously pulled your Catalyst from your inventory, the gleaming blues of the cover and accents glowing and pulsing with elemental energy. You were fairly strong, taking lessons from any of the Anemo users you could, mostly Sucrose. 

Slowly you began your trek, following the road to the north as it led through the Whispering Woods, the foliage danced in the breeze almost as if waving. Thankfully the Knights of Favonious patrolled through here often, leaving no hilichurls or slimes to interrupt your travels. Each step was met with more and more excitement as you recounted your plans.

As you reminded yourself again to stop before evening light, your eyes fell on Starfell Lake and the Statue of the Seven that sat on the tiny island in its middle. You frowned as you debated taking the tiny detour before shrugging. It would be a quick respite from your trek so far, and you could offer some berries you had picked on the way to Barbatos. As you reached the edge of the lake you bit your lip. Getting wet wasn’t in the plan, so after a moment of thought you turned your eyes on some nearby slimes. If you could get enough energy…

“Wind, hear me!” You shouted as you pulled the air away from the slimes, creating a vacuum and dealing damage to the elemental creatures. Energy rushed through you as the slimes melted in defeat, and you turned back to Starfell Lake with a grin. Using the burst of energy you had stored, you took on the form of a wind sprite and floated easily over to the Statue, landing and brushing yourself off. A familiar warmth rolled over you as you basked in the aura of the statue, apparently it was something only vision holders could feel. Though, to you it felt like being near the Big Bard from your childhood, it felt safe. You carefully dusted away any debris from the statue before bowing your head in prayer.

“Please, Lord Barbatos, guide me to find my friend again.” You whispered, scrunching your eyes like you always have when you would pray. Your mother would sigh every time and tell you it wasn’t necessary, but you had argued that the Big Bard had said it would’ve made Barbatos laugh, so you have continued to do so ever since.

You concluded your prayer and opened your eyes, only for them to widen in complete shock. You spun around in horror as you didn’t recognize anything, the landmarks you had grown up with were missing, even the lake that was supposed to be all around you was completely gone, replaced with…

“Dandelions…” You whispered, gaping as the entire expanse around you was covered in the plants. “Is this…”

“You made it!” A soft scream tore its way out of your throat as the sun seemed to disappear, leaving you in darkness. “Oh no…”

Suddenly the sun returned as abruptly as it had left, and you slowly pulled your arms down from where they had instinctively raised to guard your face. Your breath caught in your throat as familiar, giant, teal eyes peered at you, surrounded by a pale face that your mind hazily tried to liken to the one in your memories. 

It wasn’t until the wind wrapped itself around you in that gentle way that it had many many years ago, reminding you immediately of home, that you finally started to relax. It was like a hug from an old friend.

“Hello again little one.” The Big Bard smiled. “Though I suppose you’re not so little now, are you?”

“No, I’m not.” You crossed your arms, glaring playfully. “You’re still as big as I remember though.”

The giant let out a soft laugh. “It would seem so. I’m surprised you remembered me so well. Most humans tend to forget me when I’m not around.”

“That’s not nice.” You grumbled. “You told me to meet you when I was older, of course I can’t forget a promise.” You glanced around at the Sea of Dandelions. “Though Lord Barbatos must have teleported me here, I was just at Starfell Lake.”

“I did.” You turned back to the Big Bard and raised an eyebrow.

“You can teleport people? Well that makes sense, you probably couldn’t travel very easily at your size…” You froze. “Wait.” Slowly you looked back up at the “make-believe” friend from your childhood and felt everything click. “Oh.”

“Hey, it’s alright. I don’t mind just being your friend y’know.” 

Your mouth ran dry as your heart began to pound in your ears. All this time…you had been friends with the Archon of Mondstadt. Calling him all kinds of nicknames, butchering his name for the first few years of your life. Your vision suddenly felt heavy around your neck. What if all of this time he was keeping an eye on you because you offended-

“Wendy.” You flinched and looked up at Lord Barbatos in fear. He knew your name? Of course he knew your name, your mother had prayed to him every night of her life. You had prayed to him yourself many times. “You’re shaking.” You barely reacted at the gentle touch of his giant hand against your arm.

Then in the blink of an eye the huge god you were familiar with was gone, and in his place was a young boy wearing a teal-green outfit, holding out a hand.

“Is this better?” You blinked and slowly relaxed, gently taking the offered hand. “Hi, my name’s Venti, Venti the Bard. It’s nice to meet you.”

You stared for a moment before smiling, realizing he was giving you the chance to begin as friends, not as an Archon and their follower.

“I’m Wendy, Wendy the Adventurer.” You smiled. “And eventually I hope to meet my friend Barbatos at his full height.”

“I’m sure one day he would be happy to show it to you.” Venti giggled, pulling you down to sit amongst the Dandelions. The breeze here was so gentle as to not blow the seeds away, but the winds still blew, weaving through the air like playful children. Your eyes widened as you heard the soft chimes that denoted the laughter of a wind sprite. Venti smiled. “If you want to hear a song, I have one in mind. But-” He winked. “It’ll cost you an apple.”

Your laughter filled the air and upon listening to the first chords your eyes grew heavy, closing against your will.

A warmth on your face woke you up, and you sat up groggily rubbing at your eyes. Slowly you opened them fully, blinking at the early morning light blinding you as it reflected off the water. 

Your eyes widened in shock as you glanced around, finding you had fallen asleep on the dais of the Statue of the Seven at Starfell Lake. As you slowly recalled what had happened you were about to dismiss it as a dream, only to blink as you sat up, completely covered in Dandelion Seeds.