Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Sand.

Sand as far as the eye could devour, stretching endlessly into the distance to the point where the whole of Teyvat might encompass nothing but. A desolate place, free of any sort of civilization apart from the myriad of tribes and tents dotting the horizon here and there. No doubt it was a deadly and dangerous place to call home even for the people who had not just survived but thrived in it for countless generations. Much like water itself, the difference was like night and day when compared to that of Fontaine's glimmering lakes so full of life and beauty.

Wild and desolate though it may be, there was still a sort of charm to this place as well if one looked hard enough, Perhaps it was the way the massive dunes rose from the ground into odd, but intriguing structures or maybe the distant signs of vegetation spiraling high into the sky. The strange tree looming on the horizon, looking almost like one made entirely of hydro also caught her eye and if her guide's words were to be believed – not that she had any reason to doubt him at this juncture, of course – then that was their destination.

To think I was content to lounge around for once this morning and now here I am, traipsing about through this wasteland. But if it's true…

"I know where Egaria is," his words came back to haunt her, just as the slight sting from did from where hot tea had splashed on her lap. How else was she supposed to react to that?

There had been denials of course - why wouldn't there be? Countless expeditions had been sent to this place in search of any remnant of her dear guardian but few seldom returned. Sumeru was not a land one could simply tour as one wished – it was fraught with perils the likes of which still made her best intel agents tremble.

The first and most notably being the heat. Celestia save her, but being the hydro archon certainly did not mean she was always cool even in arid environments such as these. The humidity was enough to boil a crab in its shell almost! How did people live here?!

And more to the point-!

"How are you not boiling right now? It feels like I'm standing in an oven!" she whined – no, that wasn't right. Furina de Fontaine did not whine like a child. She merely asserted her grievances… yes that sounded much better.

"You could've asked Clorinde that earlier too, you know?"

Oh, she could've indeed, though for various specific reasons she abstained from that.

Clorinde had been oddly protective of her ever since their little escapade a few weeks prior. Her aide-de-camp had undergone a dramatic shift in her position towards Furina ever since the god had related her past to both her and Neuvillette, though she was spared from having to do into too much detail.

Nevertheless it had been a chore to keep Clorinde from mothering her although she was privately pleased all the same… at least until it came to her stance on the Traveler.

That's where they butted heads. And had it not been for Neuvillette's vouching for his character, Clorinde might've succeeded in her suggestion to bring along the Special Security Patrol as her entourage.

She wouldn't have minded Chevreuse, though. That girl while steadfast in her duties was also someone who recognized the Traveler's faithfulness to her archon's protection, despite being the first to level a musket at him. Plus she always had tasty snacks on her for mid-road munchies.

But as they say, three's a crowd, Furina groused. Paimon was enough of a headache on the best of days though the little fairy was starting to warm up to her – they did both share an insatiable desire for sweets, after all.

The desire was still present however… one she couldn't truly ignore, not anymore. Aether was the first person to ever see what she really had been and never judge her for it, Neuvillette notwithstanding of course. In such a short time he'd gone from someone of interest to her to someone she really couldn't imagine living without.

He was a breath of fresh air compared to all the other sycophants who merely provided her with lip service, only spouting how beautiful and wise she was so long as it would benefit them. Aether, however, did the same but for the things people couldn't see, like who she was as well as what she wanted. He also put up with her theatrics, sometimes even playing along just to make her feel special.

Special… yes, that's what he made her feel. No one else had bothered to go so far for her. That's why she had finally relented and allowed him to lead her here, to this forsaken land where Egaria had met her untimely end. She trusted he wouldn't bring her here just to throw her shortcomings, of which there were many, in her face like so many others that criticized her would give their arm to.

Now if he could do something about this blasted humidity, she'd knight him properly – not like those charlatans in Mondstadt had. Honorary Knight? She'd make him a true knight of Fontaine, of their home!

Our… home?

Her face warmed at that thought and this time it had nothing to do with the overbearing heat.

"Furina...?"

Her head snapped towards the voice, eyes wide as she stammered out. "W-what? Yes, what is it?"

Paimon floated over to her, cocking her head at her in concern. "You doing ok? Do we need to take a break somewhere so you can cool off?"

Oh how wondrous that sounded! But pride beat out her desires like it usually did, old habits rearing their ugly heads once more.

She gave a huff and planted her fists on her hips proudly, smirking at the fairy. "Oh please, I am the god of hydro. A little heat isn't going to be the death of me, dear Paimon. Your concern is noted but not warranted in this case."

"And there she goes again," Paimon sighed with a weary glance back towards Aether. "Would a little honesty kill her...?"

"What was that…?" Furina all but growled in warning.

"Nothing!" she yelped, flitting back over to her companion's side.

Furina withheld a sigh. Perhaps she shouldn't let her frustrations go on poor Paimon, but it was difficult… especially with what occurred earlier.

That woman.

Just thinking of that smug desert… vixen was enough to make her blood boil. It was bad enough she didn't acknowledge how glorious Fontaine's archon truly was, but she had the absolute gall to… to… to flirt with her chaperone!

Furina had spent many a night in certain formal engagements where she bore witness to all the standards of courtship among Fontaine's elite, so she knew the signs.

That Dehya person was forgoing all of that in favor of skipping to the climax, which Furina also considered heresy in some ways nevermind the fact that her attentions were focused solely on Aether.

"You're sulking again," Aether pointed out, snapping her from her musings.

"I am above such practices," she scoffed, sticking her nose in the air not unlike a cat would upon being presented an unsatisfying meal.

"I told you she's just a friend," Aether said once more, as he had said at least five different times before now.

She didn't believe a single one and this attempt was even poorer than the last.

"Perhaps you don't but that woman clearly sees things differently," she stated imperiously. "The gall. To think she can do whatever she pleases in front of me, with my property-"

"Your property...?" Aether uttered, a cold tone to his voice which made her flinch briefly but she rallied just as quickly.

"You are my chaperone, thus you belong to me," she asserted, doing her best to ignore the flush in her cheeks. It was so close to what she wanted to say, had yearned to say but the time wasn't right.

The timing hadn't been right for a while now and it was getting to her.

"I didn't realize you laid claim to me," the blond remarked, the frown that had been marring his visage now replaced by his usual teasing smirk.

Were it anyone else, she would feel scandalized but with him all she could do was fight back the pounding of her heart. Damn that smile of his… He so often made a fool of her and to her great shame she privately enjoyed it somewhat.

After all, his attention was focused on her… as it should be.

A weight on her head had her glaring up at him, though there was little force behind it. "If you are quite done, might I ask how much further we have to venture?" She could see the large tree over the precipice of the dunes surrounding them, but only the top half and no way to tell where the actual base of it was.

"Not far now, come on," Aether assured, and took her hand without warning.

Her mouth opened to issue a rebuke but her heart won over her pride for once, squeezing his back as they continued onward. Fortunately it was just them this time; Clorinde had, after a rather heated discussion regarding her well-being and Aether's competence, allowed them to go with only Paimon as insurance.

As it turned out, there was one good thing about the hellcat known as Dehya and it was her intense competitive streak. Clorinde had proven herself a tempting challenge for the desert dweller, one that even the former confessed interest in dueling with if only to keep herself busy.

"Tell me, are you certain those two won't end up killing each other?" she threw out, wanting his input.

Aether chuckled. "If you asked me a few weeks ago who would win in a fight, I would've said Dehya if only because I know her best."

A little too well, Furina added to herself sourly.

"But Clorinde did save Navia and me when we were investigating the mysterious disappearances, fighting off an army of gardemeks in the process. Clorinde's fast but Dehya's strength is legendary around here – I'm a little sad we'll end up missing it. Paimon would probably make a killing betting on Dehya."

"Yeah, that's for – wait what!? Paimon wouldn't do that!"

"Bet on Dehya? I'll be sure to tell her you said that," Aether shot back with a devious grin.

"Furinaaaa, Aether's being mean!"

"Indeed," Furina nodded, aiming a stern look at Aether, causing him to flinch... only for her to crack a grin herself. "Clorinde would surely come out on top, so betting on Dehya would be a poor waste of mora. For shame, Paimon."

"Not you, too!"

Furina shared a laugh with Aether, admiring the mirth bubbling across his face while the fairy whined at them both.

Truly an extra slice of joy these two were.

Now if only Lady Egeria could meet them, she thought wistfully, following their path closer and closer to where her guardian forever rested.

Paimon disappeared into her little sub-space pocket, loudly declaring that she wasn't going to talk to him or Furina until she felt like it. It wasn't the first time she'd gotten so upset with him, of course. There had countless times during their journey where he took his jokes a little too far but fortunately for him, Paimon was easy to forgive… provided he made her a dish that left him exhausted that is.

I'll have to dig out something later for her, he thought with a sigh.

Still, now the two of them could have a bit of privacy even though Aether didn't really know where to begin.

Telling Furina about Egaria had been something he'd grappled with for some time after their little excursion down in the Institute of Ascension ruins, especially after learning how important the deceased god was to her. Egaria was the closest thing Furina had to a mother – that she could remember, anyways. No amount of digging on Neuvillette's part could find her birth parents. Egaria had also been the one to give her the hat she refused to let anyone touch but her, save for him that is.

But if the pari were to be believed, then that same god still existed within the bounds of the Harvisptokhm albeit in a form she could no longer communicate with. It might be cruel to bring Furina so far just to talk to a special puddle, but Furina was the hydro archon just like Egaria was. If there was such a possibility that she could find some closure by speaking to "Egaria"…

He had to try – for her sake if nothing else.

Soon, the outcropping that surrounded them gave way to a lush, vibrant landscape completely at odds with the desolate sands around them. An oasis of the purest form spread out in a sight that would've made most painters tear their arm off for a chance to put to canvas, and situated atop it was the sprawling tree of such magnificence that matched that of the Divine Tree in Sumeru City.

Even now the sight left him in awe… more so Furina, hearing the god gasp softly behind him.

"It's… gigantic!" she breathed, mystified.

"It was grown by Greater Lord Rhukkadevata, the dendro archon," Aether informed her with an indulgent smile, delighting in the wonder scrawled across her face. "It's the barrier keeping the Abyss from seeping through for now."

"That beam you mean," Furina deduced, her eyes locked on the pillar of light shooting up into the sky. "The dendro archon… you said she goes by the name Nahida, now? Perhaps a meeting of sorts isn't unheard of in the future. I'm sure an exchange with the god of wisdom would bear some significance if this is what she is capable of, though I question what affinities she might have in regards to my power. How can a tree grown by her have an aqueous appearance?"

"Because that is the Lord of Amrita's doing."

"Gah!? Who-!" Furina yelped, nearly tearing forth her scepter to smite the interloper.

"Whoa, easy now! She's a friend," Aether assured, stepping in her view with outstretched arms. He glanced behind him, finding a familiar pari peering at him with that same indifferent stare of hers. Extensive time around such beings had allowed him to pick out little signs of emotion, such as the welcoming crinkle of her eyes. "Hello Sorush."

"Greetings, my Yasnapati. I trust you have done well in my absence?" the haughty pari said, floating calmly and unruffled by Furina's hostility.

"You… know this creature?" Furina demanded, glaring at the pari but not drawing her scepter for the moment.

"Hmph. How insolent of one so young to refer to someone of my standing as a mere creature. Since you are seem to be a companion of my Yasnapati, I shall forgive your lack of decorum. Be grateful for this, child."

"D-decorum?! Why you-! Who are you to speak about decorum you floating flower bud! Do you not know whom you are addressing?! And what in Celestia's name is a Yasna- Yesne – whatever that is!?"

Aether sighed. He had had a feeling things would end up like this were the two to meet. Sorush had mellowed out considerably since their adventure together, but she still had quite the chip on her shoulder. Throw in someone like Furina and Aether suddenly envied Paimon for being able to leave the realm like she could.

"Ladies, ladies, please. There's no need for squabbling like this."

Both turned to him with a glare that somehow they managed to mirror before turning back to each other.

Aether swallowed.

Letting them meet might not have been the best idea, he mused idly.

"Setting this one's lack of manners aside," Sorush stated, ignoring Furina's offended squawk, "what tidings have brought you back to this land? I presumed your business was concluded upon our farewell some time ago."

"Well, a few things happened but basically," he took hold of Furina by the shoulder and brought her forward, gesturing to her meaningfully, "she has come to meet the Lord of Amrita."

Before Furina could protest, Sorush floated down just in front of her face, studying her intently which made Furina flush a bit at the attention. "W-what is it?"

"There is an essence about you, child. One familiar… and at the same time not. Like a tree with leaves not its own."

"What does that have to do with anything?" Furina demanded, frowning at the being.

"I cannot say, but it is not for me to do so anyhow. My words will mean little to a child like you."

Furina's eyes flashed in outrage. "Listen you-!"

"As a Bloomguard, it is my duty to safeguard the sanctity of the Harvisptokhm as well as the Lord of Amrita's safety. Many others have foolishly attempted to gain access but were turned away in the end, though their attempts have yet to cease. However," she glanced up at him for a moment then back down at the fuming god, "given that you share some association with my Yasnapti, I shall allow you entry provided he accompanies you."

Furina scoffed, seizing his arm with a quickness that surprised him. "As I intended. My dear chaperone does not go anywhere without me and vice versa."

"Then come," Sorush urged, gesturing with one petal-like wing towards the inner grove ahead. "We shan't keep her waiting."

Sorush flew ahead of them, leaving fluttering petal-like traces in her wake, leaving them standing on the massive branch-like bridge that led to the grove.

Furina huffed, crossing her arms firmly across her chest. "Child! Can you believe that… that… unruly tulip! If she knew whom she was addressing-"

"The pari have been around much longer than you, my lady," he informed her, using her title to appease her somewhat. She was left mollified as a result but still looked upset. "I don't think it's meant to belittle you either."

"Yet she didn't utter anything regarding you," Furina added pointedly, lifting an eyebrow at him.

"I'm a… special case," Aether defended with a chuckle even though that mattered little to the god. "Don't take it personal. Sorush might be a bit of a handful, but she doesn't mean any ill towards anyone."

"She certainly has a funny manner of showing such," the god grumbled.

Like a certain god I know, Aether added with a chuckle, once more earning said god's ire.

"Sooner or later you will have to enlighten me to the little joke you seem to covet," Furina stated with a frown that came off more like a pout than anything – not that he would utter such a thing, even if it was true.

"Yes, my lady," Aether returned, admiring how her face lit up in a healthy crimson shade. "Shall we?"

She seized his arm once more, though was much more subdued about it this time, letting him take the lead while she just took in the scenery, unable to keep from gawking.

Aether couldn't blame her – he'd frequently visited this place much like the tree of dreams in Vanarana, sometimes just visiting for a brief rest from all the errands and commissions he found himself unable to refuse.

He'd even picked out a nice spot just by one of the streams with a perfect view of the massive tree forever keeping the abyssal forces away from Teyvat proper. The perfect place to catch a quick nap.

Maybe I can show her before we leave, he thought, glancing once more at the wide-eyed god who was taking in the sights.

Perhaps in time he might show her more than just this favorite spot, but that would depend entirely on her.

It was silly, but there was some lingering doubt that left him worried if she would have anything to do with him once all this was done. There was no way of knowing just how – or if – the Lord of Amrita would react to Furina's presence.

Soon they'd find out whether or not she would.

Sorush awaited them at the mouth of the cave where the fallen archon lay in eternal rest. Three other pari were there as well, exchanging words with the bloomguard as they walked up. All eyes immediately landed upon Furina, the god of hydro managing to not quail in the wake of their gazes.

"The Lord of Amrita's rest is not to be disturbed by outsiders," one of the trio chastised, gesturing animatedly with her wings.

"Sorush, your Yasnapti has proven himself worthy to come and go as he pleases – this one has not. Leave this sacred place at once, outsider!" another demanded, eyes narrowing with clear disdain.

Furina made to declare her thoughts of the matter, but Aether was quicker. This could go south very quickly if he didn't vouch for her.

But ultimately, it wasn't him that had to.

"I have brought her here," Sorush revealed, earning startled looks from her fellow pari. "If you wish to direct your ire, do so at me. I will accept all grievances in her stead."

"She is an outsider-!"

"As was my Yasnapti!" Sorush shot back, uncharacteristically passionate for once. Aether almost blushed as the meaningful glance the bloomguard sent him before the pari turned back to her kin. "Outsiders have shown themselves to be cunning and deceitful, yes. And while my Yasnapati may have proven himself thrice over, I also believe that anyone he calls a "companion" is worth my consideration."

The blond was stunned. Sorush had never really had any issue with him, but the depths of her views on him were humbling to say the least. He couldn't help but stand up a bit straighter at her words, smiling proudly at her.

And the god of justice never failed to preen when praised, however indirectly, smiling superiorly at the chastised pari that still sent her leers.

"…it shall be on your head, then," the third of of them uttered, defeated. "But rest assured we will be informing Zurvan of this abuse of authority."

Sorush scoffed. "Do what you will. That old hag never seems to have enough complaints about me – what's one more?"

Disgusted, the pari flew off leaving only Sorush, Aether and Furina standing at the mouth of the cave.

"Is… is this it?" Furina asked, her tone subdued.

"This is our most sacred site, child. Do not take such privileges lightly," Sorush told her sternly, floating just in front of her. "The pari have lived long and will continue to do so, and we do not forgive easily should we be slighted."

To her credit, Furina seemed willing to swallow her pride and dipped her head in acknowledgement.

Sorush took that as her compliance, setting off ahead of them and down the incline into the grove within.

A glimmering light from beyond captured his attention immediately, finding himself once again entranced by the sight of the Amrita Pool, its waters clearer than the finest crystal. There was a certain aura to it as well, an atmosphere that made him both at ease and saddened.

Egaria had been no one but another unfortunate casualty in the eternal conflict against the Abyss, but it was only after getting to know the girl beside him that his heart truly ached.

Now this simple yet beautiful pool held a much more somber place in his mind.

"It's… beautiful," Furina breathed, clutching a hand to her chest as she took one tentative step forward. "It's like… the waters of Fontaine, secluded inside this oasis. But," she turned to him, uncertainty clear in expression, "why show me this?"

Aether paused, weighing his next words carefully before he answered. "Do you remember what I told you before setting out?"

"That you-?" And suddenly, comprehension dawned on her, whirling back to the pool with a shocked look. "…this… is this-?"

Aether remained silent, merely giving her a slow nod.

Furina inhaled sharply, her voice turning watery as she knelt down to the pool. "Lady… Egaria…?" she whispered, reaching out to run her hands through the pool. Ripples followed in her wake, not unlike any ordinary body of water and yet, the sight still made Aether clench his fists tightly.

I should give her time to be alone, he decided, turning on his heel to leave her to be with her former guardian.

That is, until he heard splash behind him.

He froze.

"...Furina?"

No answer, just the churning of the water.

"Furina...!" he shouted, whirling back around… and his heart nearly stopped.

Furina was gone. In front of her, the pool churned and bubbled unnaturally.

No…

"FURINA!"

He leapt into the pool, scouring it for any traces of her but none could be found.

His heart hammered wildly in his chest.

"Furina! Furina answer me!" he shouted at her, as if that might make her reappear.

"The Lord… has summoned her."

Aether's eyes widened, turning furiously on the pari as she stared into the pool along with several other pari, including Zurvan.

"The Lord…"

"She has answered!"

"But why her?"

"How can an outsider call her to act and we couldn't?"

Many confused and outraged murmurs rose up from the gathered and Sorush looked just as shocked by this turn of events.

Aether gritted his teeth and glared back at the pool, preparing to draw his blade and leap in.

"Be at ease, young one," Zurvan's gravelly but gentle voice somehow soothed him, along with the feather-like touch of her wing. "The Lord will not harm the child."

"You don't know that," Aether snapped, though he acknowledged he was merely lashing out.

"…you are correct. I do not claim to know the Lord's intentions, but I can say that she has protected us even from whatever realm she now inhabits. I can only ask that you share the faith we have in her towards whatever intent she has for your friend."

Aether could only stare forlornly at the pool as it settled, its surface once more becoming mirrorlike and showing only his reflection.

Furina…

Water rippled and churned around her, tossing her about like a rag doll as though she were once more chasing after Paimon from before. This time however she could not see where the current was whisking her to, only that there was no resisting it.

Her powers were useless for once. All she could do was let the current take her, and pray that wherever she ended up she could find her way back.

Back to Aether…

The current suddenly grew more violent, feeling her body being pulled upward by… something, the sound of roaring waves thundering in her ears. Then, with a great splash, she felt her body yanked back onto solid ground. The god sputtered and coughed for a second, expelling water from her lungs as she tried to regain her bearings.

She barely registered the sound of feet padding towards her.

"Guh… I still hate the water after all," she grumbled.

She never expected any commentary, and certainly not from the voice that answered her.

"My, my, seems that even five centuries isn't enough to change that side of yours, my dear."

Her entire body and mind ground to a halt.

That voice…

Furina fought a brief but bitter battle with her inner self, the side that came out on top allowing her to risk a glance upward to where the voice sounded.

The owner of the feet did not wait for her gaze to travel upwards, kneeling down so that a hauntingly familiar profile came into view. The face that she had all but burned into her mind smiled back at her, alive and well, just as she remembered.

The hydro archon, Egaria knelt in front of her with her hands on her knees, admiring her disposition with a gentle smile. She looked just like how she remembered her. The phantom she associated with Egaria was the last time she had seen the god alive, but what she appeared as now was her divine attire.

Hair as white as snow, billowing down her back in gentle, rolling waves with perfectly shorn bangs framing a eyes of the clearest blue, glowing brightly with amusement. Her white and purple court dress pooled around her feet, a sash inlaid with gold accents running down its length with a gold heaer on the end of it. Various designs were scrawled across both her collar and the bodice, indicating Celestia-esque runes. Normally she would wear her brown gloves when out in public, but in private, when it was just them, she would forgo them in order to feel how nice the touch of others was.

It was like staring into the past, the guardian she loved so dearly alive and well before as she remembered.

"…Lady… Egaria?" she uttered, daring not to hope but even so unable to resist the urge call out.

Egaria's eyes darted to something above her, her smile widening with her eyes glowing with delight. "Really, I hadn't expected you to hold onto that ratty old thing all this time, Furina. I can only imagine how you've managed to keep it from falling to pieces."

If there was ever an indication that this was in fact the real former archon, that was it.

Years of court etiquette and decorum left her all at once, leaving behind only the small girl who had been rescued by this woman so long ago.

Tears sprang to her eyes all at once, her body moving instinctively and sending her careening into the former god's embrace, hugging her tightly as they both tumbled down.

"Egaria! Lady Egaria…!" she sobbed, pushing her face into the woman's chest. The touch, the feel of the woman's hands removing her precious hat to touch her hair only made her cry harder.

"You've grown up so much, my child," Egari murmured, stroking Furina tenderly back and forth. "I wish I could've seen it."

She sniffled, risking a tentative look up at her guardian's face, "You… you're real aren't you? This isn't a dream?"

Egaria's smile died and for one horrifying second, she had worried she'd broken whatever spell she was under.

That is, until she felt Egaria take hold of her cheek and grip it between her thumb and forefinger, pulling it taut.

"OWOWOWOW-!"

"Does that help alleviate some of your worries?" Egaria inquired, her tone playful as Furina rubbed her cheek sourly. "You were a dear, but even you had your bouts of petulance that had to be put in check, and thus this little tactic was employed. It was quite effective as it turned out."

"It was painful," Furina whimpered rubbing her cheek.

"Learning is often fraught with such miseries I'm afraid, among other things," Egaria remarked, returning to stroking Furina's hair before hugging her tightly. "It's a joy to hold you like this once more, my child. I've missed this."

"Lady Egaria…" Furina murmured, settling herself back into her embrace.

Her gaze swept around, her eyes widening as she realized that beyond them was a vast expanse of a water. There was no floor beneath them, just an emptiness that stretched out on and on. It was like they were encapsulated within a bubble, perhaps even similar to the place Aether had described with Vacher's many victims.

Whatever the case, she didn't care for it.

For the first time in 500 years, she finally felt at home again, safe and loved in her guardian's embrace. She hated to break this serene atmosphere, but after all this time and finally being given the chance to get answers, she wasn't going to pass on it.

No matter how much she loved her.

"Why didn't you come back...?"

Egaria's smile died once more, a sigh escaping her lips. "You blame me."

Furina stilled in her arms. Seemed Egaria could still read her, even as she was.

"I cannot fault you for it – I broke my vow to you after all. There has not been a moment that's gone by I haven't lamented the many opportunities I have lost to see you blossom into the person you are."

"Then why?" the girl pressed, insistently

Egaria smiled at her – it was a sad, pitiful little sight and it broke her heart to see it anywhere on the woman's face. "Gods may be divine, my dear, but even we cannot stave off death when it comes for us."

"I don't understand."

Egaria patted her head like she used to when she was small, rubbing it affectionately. "Then I'm glad. It means that my actions allowed you to come this far without bearing that burden. Knowledge is power but it is very much a curse as well, especially when it pertains to one's own mortality. How Rhukkadevata remains sane I shall never fully comprehend…"

"Egaria," Furina groaned at her, feeling that was avoiding the question.

"Apologies, I went off on another tangent didn't I? My point was that my demise was ordained be it from this instance or some other further down the line. Perhaps I've become a bit jaded in that aspect but death tends to do that to one's psyche; however, Furina, I would not change any instance of what happened."

"But why?!" Furina demanded, gripping her guardian's dress in two big fistfuls, glaring up at her. "Why did you have to die? Why did you choose me of all people to become your successor?" Her gaze lowered to the ground, her body starting to tremble violently as she unleashed all her the emotions she'd kept under wraps for centuries, "…why did you have to leave me to fend for myself?"

"To protect you."

Furina shot a look up at the god, incredulous. "W-what? Me?"

"Fontaine as well of course, and the entirety of Teyvat if we're being specific," Egaria added for good measure, cocking her head a bit in thought. "But my principal concern lay with you and your future, and the Abyss threatened to destroy all of that – I could not permit them to do so."

"But… then if you just wanted to protect me, protect Fontaine even then anyone else would've been a better pick. Why choose a human?"

Egaria gazed down at her with warm, motherly affection as she held a hand to Furina's cheek. "Why, you ask? The reason is simple: humanity's potential will surpass that of the gods themselves. You, my dear, are no different from that belief."

Furina cast a sour look to the side, only just barely holding back a sneer at her words. "You sound like Mathias..."

Egaria fell eerily silent for a moment and Furina quickly made to apologize, only for the god to place a finger to her lips.

"There are not enough words in any language to express how much I loathe that insect," Egaria hissed, causing Furina to flinch at the sound of it. "Yet, despite his sins, I will acknowledge that he was right in one aspect. Teyvat's future lies with humans, and it is them that will one day supplant the gods of this world, much like we ousted the ancient dragons. Had he not gone about it in such a vile, barbaric manner then perhaps we might have collaborated on such an endeavor."

Furina was aghast. Was Egaria seriously speaking of rebelling against Celestia?!

The woman winked at her. "Do not fret. Those in the skyward citadel may have ears in every realm, but even they have no business with the dead. My words are that of a forgone ideal in their eyes. Nevertheless, I wish to impart this upon you all the same."

"Then," Furina hesitated, licking her lips briefly before meeting Egaria's gaze, "is that the real reason why you saved me back then? Why you took me in the way you did?"

Egaria didn't answer immediately, but sighed instead. "I can see how you came to that conclusion, nor do I blame you for it. Anyone would presume as such as I never once uttered mention of a successor in my time before then. Many had even proposed Neuvillette to be that individual."

"Because he's a stickler for the rules?" Furina guessed half-jokingly, only for Egaria to smirk at her.

"Yes, but also because he's the hydro dragon."

Furina's mouth dropped open, stunned by this revelation. Neuvillette had been one of the few constants in her life but even now there was much she didn't know about the man… or dragon, if Egaria was to be believed.

But she wouldn't have any purpose in deceiving me, so it must be true.

She shuddered. The remains of the great hydro dragon made up an entire island just a hope and a skip away from the heart of Fontaine. To think that her Iudex had been of the same kin… It was startling to say the least.

"Rest easy, my dear," Egaria tittered. "Neuvillette came to love Fontaine as his home so you need not fear any retribution from him. If anything, he is quite content to leave Fontaine in your capable hands and trusts you a great deal if you are able to be here."

While that may be true, it still did little to assuage her worries. One thing was for sure she would be having a very long conversation with the chief justice once they returned to Fontaine.

"Though the fact you bring up that worm concerns me," Egaria burst into her musings, drawing her back to reality. "I was led to believe he perished along with the rest of his minions when that facility was raided."

Furina couldn't keep the darkness back from within, letting a pained grimace show on her face. "He survived," she admitted, and felt Egaria's grip on her tighten to an almost painful extent. "He threw in his lot with the Abyss Order and planned to revive the institute."

"Why that vile, obscene cur… Of course he would attempt such things knowing I am no longer there to put him in check," Egaria seethed before registering Furina's words. "Your words seemed to indicate past rather than present tense – what happened?"

Furina met the god's eyes firmly, delivering the news. "He's gone for good this time – I made sure of it."

Egaria stared at her for a long moment, not showing any emotion other than an steely look in her eyes. Finally, the tension ebbed away leaving her with a relieved smile. "I considered the people of Fontaine my children once, but that man was more than just the black sheep of the family – he was both sheep and wolf all in one. The world is well rid of him, sad as that is to say about one of my people. I do wish that you hadn't been the one to finally put an end to what should've been my problem."

"No, you're wrong," Furina stated suddenly, shocking both Egaria and herself for saying such a thing. But there was no point in taking back those words; it was time to commit. "You… died, and that left me to deal with him in your stead. His acts weren't just a threat to me but all of Fontaine, perhaps Teyvat itself! As your successor… as the hydro archon, I could not let him do as he wished, no matter how much he haunted me. However, I do owe him some measure of gratitude."

Egaria's lips curled into a snarl, her eyes seeming to glow, "You owe that wretch nothing-!"

"You're wrong!" Furina shouted back, once more stunning her guardian. A part of her was mortified at how she talked back to the one person she revered above all others, but another refused to be coddled like she was a child anymore. "He was a monster and I will never refute that. My hands are forever stained because of him but even so, that shadow does not haunt me any longer… and neither does yours."

"What...?" Egaria breathed, holding the girl tighter to her. "Do you... resent me, Furina?"

Furina, despite how comfortable she felt in her arms, pushed herself back so she could raise up to meet Egaria's gaze properly. "No, that was never the issue. But... I couldn't forgive you for so long for leaving me. It wasn't until Mathias crawled out from whatever hole he'd been in for the last five hundred years that I was finally able to accept that you… you were gone, and my future will be bereft of your presence which pains me to an unfathomable degree. However, I can't be that same little girl hiding behind your skirts every time something arises that frightens me. You chose me, a lowly and tormented human to follow in your footsteps, thus I shall do that but not just because you wished for me to. It is because I am the hydro archon, Fontaine's brightest star and its sworn protector from anything this world, nay, this universe might throw at it – including your prophecy. You may no longer walk with me, but that does not mean I am alone anymore."

Egaria stared at her in awe, blinking slowly before she pulled Furina into a tight embrace, squeezing her tightly. Then, she felt something wet drip down her face.

"I have waited so, so long to hear such things from you, my child. I only wish that I could've been there to see you finally wake from that nightmare that's tormented you. You are right to resent me because I broke my promise, my dear, and I will never forgive myself for doing so."

"You didn't though!" Furina argued, shaking her head. "You left your gnosis to me, even though I couldn't accept it at the time. You still were there, protecting me all this time... You never left me, now that I think about it."

The fail-safe she had left had kept her from using her power the wrong way, and she had made it in the form of herself. No one but Egaria could've come up with such a measure.

Egaria's hand against her cheek ripped her from her musings, fiding the god staring at her with tears in her eyes. "I almost can't recognize the strong and beautiful god you've become. If you are to lead my nation – your nation – then I can rest in peace knowing you will do a splendid job."

It was a test of sheer will not to break down in the god's arms right then, forcing herself to smile back and shake her head. "Then you should understand I intend to dwarf the legacy you left."

Egaria grinned widely, wiping at the tears in her eyes. "I wouldn't have it any other way."

Furina's will faltered though, leading her to hug the god again tightly, feeling the arms around her squeeze just as much. "There's so much I want to tell you still, so much that I don't have time for."

"It doesn't have to be now," Egaria admitted, stunning the god once more. "You have someone to return to, don't you?"

Despite herself, Furina felt her cheeks warm and ducked her head when Egaria's giggle filled the air.

"You've chosen well, my dear. He's certainly proven himself more than worthy."

"You... know him?"

Egaria nodded. "He saved me too. There is not much left of me now, and what is left is keeping those wretches from beyond from spreading like a plague across Teyvat. But time eroded my will much like a river does to a stone eventually, and it was only by his intervention - as well as the efforts of those cute little flower children - that I am still here."

Furina's gaze dropped to Egaria's lap, clenching her dress in her hands. "But... you aren't."

The god holding her was quiet for a few moments before she spoke again. "Tell me, do you recall our discussion of water's nature?"

"What does that have to do with anything?"

"I told you that water is much like a coin, possessing two sides just like justice itself. To a more literal extent, life and death can be attributed much the same way. The world beyond is what people perceive as existence, but that itself is subjective. Death, by comparison, is unknown and no one really knows what lurks underneath the surface until they cross that veil themselves. My point is that while I may be "dead" to the world, I am "alive" to you."

"But are you really?"

Egaria frowned at her and pulled on her cheeks again.

"Owowowow-!"

"I'll not have you call me dead again, little girl," Egaria chastised, eyes narrowing at her. "The world can believe whatever it wishes. But the feeling you have here - is that enough proof for you, or must I prove it to you once more?"

"N-no that's not necessary!"

Her smile returned, scooping up the forgotten hat that had been lying nearby and plopped it back down on Furina's head. "Good girl. Now then, we should be getting you back to the real world. Surely you don't wish to waste precious time that could be better spent with your intended."

"Egariaaaa~"

The sun had long since vanished over the horizon, leaving the cave to be illuminated by the pure fauna surrounding the Pool of Amrita.

Sorush and Zurvan had dealt with all the bystanders, leaving Aether alone to maintain vigil over the pool. The glimmering pond hadn't so much as rippled since Furina had vanished within but he refused to leave, even with Paimon eventually coming back to see what was going on.

She was the only one he'd allowed to stay, mostly because they were bonded together but in reality, he didn't want to be alone with his thoughts.

They had proven treacherous to say the least.

So he remained seated, his eyes never straying from the pool though he was aware of everything happening around him. One hand lay flat on the ground while the other rested on the pommel of his trusty blade, ready to spring into action at a moment's notice.

Furina.

Was she safe? He doubted that Egaria would hurt her, but it could've been something other than the deceased god for all he knew. Zurvan had related to him that the Lord of Amrita had never allowed anyone into her domain, but then again that didn't amount to much when he had been the only to ever visit until Furina.

It might have been because she was Fontainian and possessed Egaria's gnosis, but it was speculative. He could come up with theories upon theories but it amounted to nothing so long as she was gone.

It was just like when she had dove in to save Paimon during their adventure, panic and fear surging through him in waves. No, that was wrong – it was worse. Because while Paimon was still here, Furina had vanished without a trace even though many had insisted she was fine.

He wouldn't believe it though, not really.

Not until she was before him once more.

"Aether, you really should eat something," Paimon said worriedly from nearby.

He couldn't even muster up the urge to tease her this time, merely shaking his head.

"Paimon's worried too, you know? She didn't know that would happen to Furina while she was gone."

"All the more reason to wait," Aether answered tersely, clenching the grass beneath him.

The little fairy floated down beside him, placing a diminutive hand on his hand, stroking it back and forth. "But… Paimon's worried about you too, though."

His eyes widened at her tone, turning to find his companion staring at him with tears in her eyes.

He cursed inwardly.

Dammit. He was so focused on Furina he'd nearly neglected his best friend.

"Hey, hey," he said gently, taking her hand in his and squeezing it. "I'm sorry. I'm just…"

"Worried," Paimon supplied, dabbing at her eyes.

His gaze fell to the pool once more, expecting Furina to reappear at any moment.

She did not.

"Yeah…"

Furina had been gone for hours now and the longer they waited, the more on edge he became. It was painful to consider, but maybe getting some fresh air would do his mood some good.

It was either that or dive into that puddle himself, sword in hand.

"Can you watch for her? I'm going to stretch my legs a bit."

"You can count on Paimon!" the fairy girl declared proudly, her previous dejection gone with the wind.

The blond managed a chuckle, glancing once more at the pool before turning away forcefully.

There was no use dwelling on it. Besides, maybe preparing some food would both give him something else to think about and serve to even things out with his stalwart guide.

He made to rise, making his way towards the incline that led out of the cave when a sound met his ears.

DRIP. DRIP. DRIP. DROP.

He paused, ears rpicking a bit to better perceive the noise.

"Huh?" Paimon uttered, turning around before giving a shriek.

Aether's instincts kicked in, drawing his blade with a flourish to face whatever threat had dared to try its luck against them.

The light from the pool had returned stronger than ever, almost to a blinding extent. His hand came up to shield his eyes as the roar of what could only be described as a waterfall filled the air. Botches of black stained his vision, forcing him to blink his eyes rapidly but just as quickly as it came, the din subsided and the glow dulled to a viewable aspect.

The blond lowered his hand slowly… and gaped.

An oceanid hovered over the pool, its wings shut tightly around itself and its eye – no, eyes closed. It did not move, nor did it make a sound apart from the water dripping off its body back into the pool.

"A-an oceanid?! But, why here?" Paimon exclaimed, ducking behind him.

His grip on his weapon did not loosen, but he still lowered it slowly all the same as he approached the being.

Its eyes snapped open, pinning him where he stood.

Silence reigned for several long moments before the wings on its body unfurled to reveal-

"FURINA!"

His weapon cast aside, he rushed forward to catch the girl as she fell from the oceanid's grasp into his arms, lowering them both to the ground. "Furina? Furina! Say something!"

Her eyes fluttered, parting slowly to gaze up at him, a tired but relieved smile spreading across her face. "Y-you're here," she murmured, before shifting her eyes back to the oceanid. "…I'll come back soon, my lady."

Aether's eyes widened, turning to shoot a look up at the oceanid… but in its place was a beautiful woman he'd never laid eyes on before, her form obscured mostly by a filmy layer of water though her face was still visible.

Clear blue eyes met his, and he felt himself spellbound by her irises, as though they were sucking him in.

Then she smiled, her eyes sliding closed as she dissolved back into the pool, the waters beneath growing still once more.

Aether just stared in disbelief, trying to rationalize what he had just witnessed.

Was… was that really the former hydro archon? He thought in amazement.

"A-Aether…" Furina's tired voice called him back to the now, gaining his undivided attention.

"I'm here. Are you-?"

GROOOOWL

His words died upon hearing that groaning noise from the girl, her face darkening as she tried to cover her flush with the brim of her hat.

Even so, he couldn't help but chuckle at the situation.

More than that, she was back in his arms… that was all that mattered.

The waning moon shone down on the rolling dunes of Sumeru's desert, casting its glow upon two figures seated across from each other, the light of a fire illuminating their features.

From their dress, they couldn't have been anything but world's apart; one was scantily-clad in what one would be hard-pressed to call suitable armor though the pauldrons and claw-like arm would likely silence any naysayers; the other, seated prim and proper wore ostentatious attire, looking more a soldier rather than a mere warrior like the other.

"That speed of yours sure is something," the wild-haired warrior remarked with a grin.

"Your own strength is quite a feat in itself," the other replied with a respectful nod. "Given the climate, your training standards must surely be extreme indeed."

"Eh. I'm nobody special in that sense. People like me who up in this kind of environment and have adapt pretty quick if they want to survive. Still, for someone from as high-class as Fontaine, you put up a good fight. I actually had to get serious there."

"Then perhaps it was a good thing he intervened when he did."

A scowl could be seen on the eremite's face, shaking her mane out of reflex than any real need. "Ugh, don't remind me. I swear my hair still feels wet from that. Sometimes it's a little scary how the boss can just get whatever element he wants like that."

"Did you not know of such prior?"

"Oh I did, but it's still weird. Then again he's not bound by the rules like us, I guess. And speaking of rules, if we go at it again then I want to do it fair and square. No Visions."

"I doubt that would amount to any difference in the result."

"What's wrong miss retainer? Afraid a desert dweller might show you up?"

"I am above such provocation."

"Killjoy…"

"Hey, Dehya, Clorinde! We're back!"

The two women turned to spy the rest of their group returning, two of them in particular walking a little closer than before when they had set out.

"Hey, about time you guys got here! We've got some leftover curry shrimp you can have," Dehya welcomed, waving them over.

"Oooh, Paimon's going to help herself!"

"Ahem!" Aether cleared his throat pointedly.

"Uh… Paimon means she'll have what's left after Furina gets hers."

Dehya grinned at the fairy, sizing her up. "Wow, Paimon's actually being thoughtful for a change. Are you sure this isn't some pari wearing a costume?"

"Heyyyy, what's that supposed to mean?!"

While the two of them started bickering, Furina walked over towards Clorinde, the woman rising to bow for her. "Welcome back, my lady," Clorinde greeted cordially, unprepared for the sudden hug from the girl. "M-my lady?"

"Haven't I already told you to drop the honorifics? I'm just Furina right now, ok?"

Clorinde aimed a look at Aether who merely smiled at the two of them, the woman giving a sigh before returning the hug.

"Yes... Furina."

Furina hugged her tighter.

"Anyone got a Kamera handy?" Dehya snickered from nearby.

"Would you care for another bath, Miss Dehya?" Furina returned sweetly, turning her head just enough to glare at the eremite warrior.

Dehya literally hissed at that, scrambling backwards as if Furina would make good on her threat.

Aether just chuckled at the scene, crossing his arms with a smirk. "I'm glad you two didn't kill each other while we were gone."

"Not for lack of trying," Dehya muttered darkly before turning to him. "Anyways, you guys get what you came for?"

Aether shrugged. "Something like that. A lot of stuff happened but I think we should be getting back to Fontaine soon."

"Aw. And here I hoping you'd stick around so could catch up a bit," Dehya said, her eyes gleaming with mischief and… something else.

But before he could respond, he felt his arm seized by a familiar grip, glancing down to find the archon holding him to her tightly.

"I'll thank you to not tempt my chaperone with lascivious intents, Miss Dehya. Though now that I think about it, perhaps you could do with a shower after all, to cool your mind I mean."

Dehya, seasoned warrior that she was, realizing the impending danger of trifling with an archon and what she viewed at hers, wisely backed down and shook her hands wildly in defense. "N-no need, I think I should see if we need more food – Paimon's eating a little more than I thought."

"Underestimating that one's stomach is rookie mistake," Furina shot back with a smirk.

"R-right."

Dehya rushed off, leaving the two of them standing there a bit awkwardly – or well, just Aether in this case. Furina for once looked perfectly content holding his arm, a light shade of crimson dusting her cheeks.

Amber eyes rolled down in her direction. "…you know she's just a friend, right?"

Mismatched blue and light blue rolled up to meet his. "And? What am I, then?"

Aether opened his mouth to answer but any response died on his tongue, his mind grinding to a halt.

That really was the question wasn't it? How many times now had he ruminated over it, weighing his response over and over in his mind until he'd nearly gone insane.

There was only one thing that kept coming back, the only thing he would readily admit.

"Someone I don't want to disappear from my sight," he confessed quietly, but the tightening of her grip on his arm confirmed she'd heard it.

"I won't," she answered back, leaving him shocked before she released him and strode off to converse with Clorinde before bed.

Did he… did he hear her right?

"Aetherrrrr! Help Paimon! Dehya's being stingy"

"No I'm not, just wait till it's ready – OUCH! That was my hand, you imp! Boss, get this glutton off me!"

Aether couldn't help but sigh.

You're missing out on so much, Lumine.

Their return to Fontaine was not anything extravagant or widely welcomed, though many people had stopped whatever they were doing to gape at their arrival.

Clorinde, after much cajoling on Furina's part, had convinced the loyal attendant to go inform Neuvillette that they were back and to report on what happened in Sumeru.

That left he and the star of Fontaine to wander the streets where everyone in sight called out to Furina, wishing her well and greeting her.

Normally she would've soaked up their praise and adoration, but her thoughts were too preoccupied with the boy walking beside her.

Egaria was not as gone as she believed her to be as it turned out. Yes, she could no longer live in the same world or experience the same things as Furina but she wasn't beyond her reach. The Pool of Amrita, as she explained, was her god essence gathered by the Pari and Rhukkadevata, allowing her to remain conscious but unable to interact with anyone… save for Furina, who possessed the other shard of her essence.

That was how she had been able to plunge deep into the pool and reunite with her dear guardian. With this in mind, she planned to frequent Sumeru going forward, perhaps stopping by once a month as per her schedule would permit. However, once Clorine explained what had occurred – though even she was still stunned by the revelation – Neuvillette would likely do anything and everything to ensure she could visit as much as possible.

No longer did she exist within Egaria's shadow; now she stood as the true god of hydro, poised to protect Fontaine as she was meant to. The prophecy still loomed, yes, but her control over the primordial sea would aid her when the time for that trial came.

What did loom over her was another shadow, one of her own design no less: the depth of her feelings regarding a certain Traveler.

She would have to have been blind to not realize how frightened he must have been when she had been absorbed by the pool. He had refused to leave her side after bidding the pari, particularly that prickly Sorush farewell, and hadn't allowed her to even lift her weapon when they came under attack by a few hilichurl rogues.

It was sweet of him, but she also worried for him. He'd been scared… scared to lose her.

Just as she had been to lose him when he faced Mathias.

She didn't want to lose him… not ever.

She wouldn't permit such an injustice.

That all said, she had slowly come to accept that there would come a time when he would have to depart Fontaine as sad as that was to admit. He had to find his sibling after all and after he helped her reunite with her own family, she could not and would not be so hypocritical to deprive him of the same chance.

That didn't make it any easier for her.

Even now the urge to latch onto him and never let go was all-consuming, like a hunger she could never satiate.

She wanted him to be hers and hers alone. It was selfish, yes, but she didn't care. Those like Dehya would learn that, were she ever to allow them to be as close to him as they wished, they would answer to her first.

She was so consumed by her thoughts that the sudden flash of a kamera nearly caused her draw her scepter.

"Oooh, what a scoop! The Traveler and Fontaine's biggest celeb walking hand in hand, boasting their relationship to the world! By any chance, have there been any significant changes with you two? Don't worry, it'll stay between us of course."

"Somehow Paimon doubts that, Charlotte," the little fairy deadpanned.

Charlotte coughed into her fist, unable to deny that remark.

As Aether started catching up with the reporter, Furina stared at the two of them intently.

Then, a thought occurred to her… one that made her smirk too much to hide, and Charlotte took notice.

"Uh, Lady Furina, that smile of yours is a little scary," Charlotte said, her hand starting to tremble a bit.

"Oh? My apologies, Charlotte. I was recalled that I have forgotten something rather important."

"You did? Did you leave it somewhere? I can run back to grab it-!" Aether made to run, but Furina stopped him with a grip on his scarf.

"No need. It's right here."

One plunge, one dive and one leap of faith was all it took to finally settle the beast that had been nurtured inside her.

Her lips met his in a chaste but passionate kiss, nowhere near as risqué as some of the novels she had perused in the past might've made it out to be. Nevertheless, it served to not only silence Aether's protests but also Charlotte.

…and the entire area around them.

Furina broke the lip lock but kept hold of Aether's scarf, making sure he didn't scurry off in a panic. His face was redder than she'd the juiciest apple, his eyes wide as dinner plates and his mouth hung open in shock.

"Now, Charlotte," Furina addressed with a winning smile, earning a "meep" from the seasoned reporter, "Did you happen to get that on film?"

"H-huh?! Oh y-yes, I did!" Charlotte stammered out a reply, fumbling with her kamera for a minute.

"Good. Then that should serve as the cover for your next headline. And don't leave out any details, please; and feel free to take more - in fact I welcome it. I want all of Fontaine, all of Teyvat to know what has happened today."

"F-Furina, w-why-?" Aether stammered, Paimon floating next to him in stunned amazement.

Furina turned to him, still keeping "My dear, must I make it clear? There is none more suitable in this world to be my chaperone, and so it goes without saying that none are more suited to court me than you."

"But… with me… are you sure?"

Charlotte's furious snapping of pictures and the roar of chattering – and some well wishes from certain prominent figures amongst the crowd – did little to distract Fontaine's archon from staking her claim.

Furina wrapped his scarf around her gloved hand, yanking him down to her level so she could met his eyes evenly, her smile becoming devious even if the blush on her face threatened to make her look anything but. "I am the god of justice, dear. And it would be quite the crime at this point to keep denying me what I want."