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Wind found himself hiding in the library more often than not these past few days. It was a good way to avoid people when he just wanted to be left alone, especially Jean and Kaeya. Lisa was more than happy to chase people off for him at the cost of her near constantly monitoring him. Wind didn't mind too much, even if it did feel a little bit like the Fairy Queen was just hanging out in his living room.
No, Wind would rather hide right now than yell at his friends. He was still anxiously waiting for Diluc to find any helpful information and he knew he'd just start lashing out because of it. He'd only been taking more combative tasks from Katheryne for that exact reason, not wanting to risk hurting someone that didn't deserve it. The only people that Wind didn't end up yelling at were his brothers and that was because hearing their voices made him sad instead of angry.
Wind didn't like being so upset. He knew it was stupid. He knew he couldn't control his situation. He knew he wasn't supposed to be acting like this; like a baby. But he was. He was mad, and sad, and scared, and confused, and so much more. The emotions were hard to contain and Wind would rather just get them out in isolation than risk hurting someone. He did it for his sister and grandma, he could do it for his new friends too.
"Not a fan of books, Cutie?"
Wind looked up from Wild's notebook to find Lisa smiling down at him with a small stack of books in her arm. Wind scowled.
"Not a fan of minding your own business, bitch?"
Wind...
Sailor, we talked about this.
I know you're upset but that's no reason to be rude. Lisa was kind enough to let you hole up in her library.
Wind swallowed back his guilt, refusing to apologize for something so small. He hadn't even said anything that bad, just rude. He turned back to his notes, rereading the similarities between Mondstadt and the Great Sea.
Lisa hummed, leaning over Wind's shoulder. "Well that's not a language I'm familiar with. What language is it? I could order some books of that origin, if you'd like."
Wind bit his tongue. He didn't want to tell Lisa about Hylian. He didn't want to explain to her how it wasn't a language native to Teyvat. He didn't want his sanity to be brought into question as he explained what Jabber Nuts are and how stupidly powerful they were.
Lisa tsked, placing her books down on the table beside Wind. "You could have told me Monde is your second language. I'll have to enchant some bookmarks to read aloud for you."
Wind whipped his head up so fast that he nearly gave himself whiplash. "I'm sorry, what?"
Lisa smiled. "It's a more advanced spell but it's doable. I'd just need you to collect some materials for me and I can create a bookmark to your liking."
She can do that?
<Finally, some actually helpful magic!>
We can finally do our own research on this world! Praise Hylia!
<By the three, there really is a goddess.>
Lisa laughed at Wind's expression, voice delicate. "I guessed right, I presume? Than how about you help me with my work today and we can gather materials as we go. We can have a talking bookmark ready for you by the end of the day. Sound like a deal?"
Wind sprung to his feet, taking Lisa's hand in his own to shake. "Deal!"
"That's what I like to hear." Lisa picked up one of the books she'd been carrying and handed it to Wind. "I want your help collecting some overdue books, today." She cracked the book open so Wind could see a small seal on the inside of the cover. "I have a list of people to check in with but, on the off chance we can't find one book or another, I want you to attune to the magic of my seals to track them down. Sound fair?"
Wind raised a brow. "You just want me to attune my magic to yours?" He asked. It seemed a bit too simple, really. He'd expect his job to be more complicated if this was to get him such a useful item made specifically for him.
"I'm sure we'll have more to do." Lisa waved off, pulling out a list from under her hat. "Besides the ingredients we'll need to find, we have quite a few late books to collect. Luckily, we should be able to find everything within city grounds."
"Than what are we waiting for? Let's go!" Wind said, putting down the book and following Lisa out of the library.
The first stop was Marjorie's shop. The woman greeted the two not-quite-knights with a smile and an open invitation to look at her newest items.
Wind would have been happy to sit on the sidelines but Lisa, it seemed, was not willing to do her job.
"Do you have any souvenirs?" Lisa asked.
Wind turned to Lisa, confused and slightly annoyed. He hadn't thought they were going to be taking a stroll. He thought they were getting a task done.
<Ah. So she's like Sky.>
The Ordo Favonius are a... How do I put this? They're rather unorthodox, don't you think?
You can just say they're bad at their jobs. No one will blame ya.
That's untrue. There are quite a few of them that excel at their jobs. It just so happens that the true strength of the organization is off at war.
Wind tuned back into Lisa's conversation with Marjorie to see the shop keeper pulling out a handful of items. Lisa barely looked over the assortment before snatching up a scroll to look it over. Her eyes widened as she read it, letting out a near silent gasp.
"My goodness," Lisa whisper to herself. "This is one of the three lost scrolls that make up the 'Northern Border Wind Investigation'. What in the world is it doing here?"
Wind's curiosity peaked at that. If these scrolls were something old and important than Wind didn't want it in the hands of people that didn't know how to handle it. But if Lisa was interested than there really was no safer place besides it being on Wind's person.
Without a second thought, Wind pulled out his wallet. "How much for it?" He asked.
Lisa and Marjorie were both surprised for a moment. Lisa shook off her confusion with a playful smile and a dainty chuckle.
"Oh? Are you buying me a gift? What a gentleman." Lisa teased.
Wind shrugged. "If you're gonna drag me around town like your new boyfriend than I'm at least gonna play along to pass the time."
Wind's blunt response was apparently the wrong thing to say, according to his brothers and Marjorie. Lisa, however, burst with genuine laughter at the remark. She ruffled Wind's hair, the same way Time did, before straightening it out again.
"You can treat me to a date if you like, Cutie." She told Wind, though it was obviously a joke.
Wind had to blink at the woman's words. He knew, objectively, that her words were strange, if not creepy. But in the moment, it felt as if he was truly talking to the Fairy Queen again, finding an unlikely companion in someone he could never comprehend.
For once, the thought of home didn't hurt.
Wind didn't know why but he smiled. Lisa seemed to understand, her smile softening as she playfully pinched at his cheek. She wordlessly turned back to Marjorie, who was watching their exchange in bewilderment.
"We'll take the scroll and that library book you borrowed a few weeks ago."
Marjorie jolted, as if she'd been zapped. She was quick to both hand over her overdue book and wrap the scroll Lisa wanted. As soon as both were handed over, Wind deposited a small handful of mora onto the counter before Lisa whisked him away again.
<Wind? Are you doing okay?>
Blink twice if you think you're in danger.
<This is getting weird...>
<Please tell me you're not actually on a date right now. Lisa's, like, thirty.>
Perhaps not thirty but I agree, non the less.
Wind couldn't help but giggle at his worried brothers. It was sweet that they cared but Wind knew what was actually going on. Lisa was playing pretend. She was acting to distract Wind. The sailor didn't mind because it was working. It gave him something substantial to do.
The next stop was Good Hunter's. Sara happily greeted the two book collectors with a smile.
"Table for two?"
"What do you think?" Lisa asked Wind. "Want to stay for a bite to eat?"
Wind hesitated to answer as he struggled to remember what food the place served. He didn't really know what Lisa liked and he hadn't really visited Good Hunter's before he met Xiangling. He could play it safe and get the most popular dish but would Lisa like it?
"Um, sure." Wind said, despite himself.
Lisa yawned, glancing around. "Why don't you order for the both of us? I'm oh so curious to know what your tastes are. I'll find us a table."
Wind didn't get the chance to respond, as Lisa was already moving to the nearest table. He sighed before turning to Sara, who was trying not to laugh behind the counter.
"This is your first time dealing with Lisa?" Sara asked, though it wasn't really a question.
Wind shook his head. "No. But I didn't think she'd be like this when she was working, too."
Sara shook her head. "I'm afraid that Lisa's just like this. She loathes to work with no play. She says 'surrendering to tedium only leads to the death of passion'; or something like that. I don't personally understand it but hey, she's the librarian, not me."
That sounds familiar.
There's always something fun to do when you're trying to figure out how to save the world.
Wind's brows furrowed in thought. He understood the sentiment and agreed with it, to an extent. He always had a way to keep himself busy during his adventures, whether it was sailing, playing games, or helping out smaller issues. But his fun was being "the Hero". That was his passion. Did Lisa think there was something wrong with what he'd chosen for his life?
Wind glanced over to Lisa. She was lounged in one of the weather worn chairs, her eyes closed and a serene smile on her lips. It reminded Wind of his time with the King of Red Lions, during the sparce moments where the waters were calm and the sun kissed his skin instead of burning it. Wind missed that feeling and wondered when he'd stopped enjoying the sunshine for it's warmth.
Wind shook himself out of his thoughts. He turned to Sara, who was watching him expectantly.
"Do you happen to know what she likes?" Wind asked. "I, uh, don't want to accidentally poison her."
Sara gave Wind the same look that parents gave to little kids chasing each other with fake swords. She was humoring him and Wind hated it. He didn't even try to hide his frown. However, that seemed to be a mistake as Sara only became more sweet and fake.
"Lisa doesn't like meat of any kind." Sara said in a fake whisper. "I'd suggest Raddish Veggie Soup or Invigorating Pizza."
<Pizza?>
What's pizza?
Wind, can you order the pizza? I wanna know what that is.
What is that?
<Is it some kind of pasta?>
"I'll get two pizzas." Wind said, already counting out his money.
Sara stopped Wind with a raised hand. "It's on the house for you, kiddo. You don't need to go spending your money. Save it for something fun."
Wind's ears lowered in his agitation but he tried to smile anyways. "Thank you." He said, reminding himself that being polite was good, and right, and better than telling Sara to shove a bread roll up her ass.
Wind was quick to retreat to the table Lisa was sitting at. He quickly took a seat before burying his face in his arms.
"What's the matter, Cutie?" Lisa asked. It annoyed Wind how genuinely concerned she sounded.
"Sara's fucking stupid."
Wind...
That is not true.
She hasn't even done anything wrong...
Come on, kid. You need to start getting your act together. You can't be getting mad at people when they're being nice to you.
Wind grumbled in frustration, moving to cover his head and his ears at the same time, no matter how stupid it made him look. He just wanted his brothers to shut up. He didn't need their stupid, wrong opinions right now.
With Wind trying very hard to ignore his brothers, he was caught off guard when gentle hands started to move his arms away from his head. He looked up, ready to snap at Lisa, only to stop when she hand nothing but sympathetic curiosity in her eyes.
"Can you tell me what happened?" Lisa asked.
Wind's lips twisted into a mix between a pout and a scowl. "She patronized me!" He spat, not even thinking about his words anymore. "Do you know how humiliating that is? The Hero of Mondstadt being seen as nothing more than a little kid?"
Lisa didn't answer but Wind didn't need her to. He moved to grip his hair but Lisa kept a tight grip on his hands, so he settled for ranting instead.
"I help people every day. I've helped Sara multiple times. I stood up against a fucking dragon for this city. Twice! I'm even an honorary knight! But no! I'm not allowed to pay for my food! It's not even because I'm a hero. It's because I'm a fucking kid. I'm not a stupid, fucking kid! I can take care of myself. In fact, I do! I take care of myself, and my sister, and my grandma. I did that for years! But no, kids like me should only be doing stupid kid things because I'm nothing but a stupid kid! Ugh!"
Wind slammed his hands down on the table, only to remember too late that Lisa was still holding onto him. He panicked for a brief moment, hurriedly spouting apologies as he made sure he hadn't accidentally activated his power bracelets and hurt Lisa.
Lisa cut off Wind's worried words by gently brushing his hair down with her fingers. Wind leaned into the touch, letting out a shaky breathe.
"You sound so much like a student of mine." Lisa sighed. "Stuck between two worlds, belonging to both yet being part of neither."
She pushed Wind's hair out of his eyes to meet his gaze. Understanding danced in sparkling green.
"It's not a crime to be young." Lisa continued, gently. "And there is no rule that says a hero always has to be a big, strong man."
"I know that!" Wind whined. "But doesn't anyone else know that?"
"It's a cultural view of maturity." Lisa said. "Mondstadt is more lax in it's beliefs of maturity but, across Teyvat, you'll find that those with an abundance of energy and optimism are often seen as younger. They're childish ideals are seen as things to grow out of. Even vision wielders are not always exempt from this rule, no matter how strong our passions are. Most adults can't comprehend that someone that exhibits these traits are also mature and responsible."
"Than what do I do?"
"You prove them wrong." Lisa said. "You show them you're a hero by being a hero. You've already done a wonderful job so far."
Wind huffed. "Tell my brothers that."
<Hey...>
We're not trying to baby you, kid. We just worry...
<You are a hero, Wind.>
You're one of us.
You've already proven yourself more than worthy of your title.
You're invaluable to us, Sailor.
You're a good hero. I promise we see that.
<Kid, if this is you trying to push us away, please stop. I don't think we could take it...>
Wind blinked, swallowing around the lump in his throat. Lisa swiped her thumb across his cheek, catching a stray tear before it could fall.
"I don't need to meet your brothers to know they love you, Cutie." Lisa said. "You wouldn't be so determined to find them if they didn't. It's sweet, in a sad way, to see you worry about them so much. I'm sure they'll be more than proud of you."
We already are.
Absolutely!
<You don't ever have to guess about that.>
We're always proud of you, Tune.
You have more the look of a hero every day. Your devotion to such a task is nothing to dismiss.
I can be worried and proud at the same time. I'm good at multitasking.
<I'm proud that you've even made it this far. And I'm even more proud than that because I know you're gonna keep going, even though I wish you wouldn't.>
<I could never do what you've done so far. You've gotten the whole city to love you. I could never be more proud.>
Wind was able to blink back his tears in time for Sara to show up with two large, round dishes. It was some sort of flat bread that was covered in tomato sauce and lots of cheese, along with mushrooms and cabbage sprinkled on top. Each one was cut up into multiple slices that were small enough to hold.
"Thank you, Sara." Lisa said. She then hummed. "Oh dear, I've completely forgotten what we came here for."
Wind chewed his first bite of pizza in confusion, completely forgetting his mental notes for how to describe it to Wild. He knew Lisa hadn't forgotten about the books. She might be lazy but he knew she wasn't stupid or forgetful.
"We're here for the overdue book." Wind said as soon as his mouth wasn't full. He turned to Sara. "You know the one, right?"
Sara blinked, as if not comprehending Wind's words. She turned to Lisa but the librarian was only giving her an expectant look.
"Um," Sara said, dumbly. She then lit up in realization. "Oh, The Boar Princess! I completely forgot about that! I left it back at home. I'm sorry, Lisa. I'll bring it back to the library as soon as I finish work."
Lisa hummed, clearly dissatisfied. "Okay then but make sure you don't forget this time."
"Yes ma'am!"
"Right," Lisa sighed, turning to Wind. "Let's finish our lunch and head to our next stop, Hero."
Wind nodded, smiling when Sara's eyes widened in slight horror. Sara tried to subtly glance at Wind, which was fine by him. He didn't want to bother with someone who couldn't remember his face when he had a lovely date and a pizza he needed to figure out how to describe.
---
"Last stop of the day." Lisa commented, leading Wind to a flower shop.
"Really going all in on the date thing, huh?" Wind commented, grinning when Lisa playfully batted at his shoulder.
Donna was quick to spot the two as they approached and grew pale. She slapped a smile onto her lips.
"Welcome! Uh... Couples are our specialty! I-I mean-" Donna was very clearly panicking and Wind wasn't quite sure what to do.
"For couples?" Lisa purred. She turned to Wind. "That reminds me of a book I read recently. Oh, what was the line? 'A date without flowers is a date without romance'?"
Wind grandly gestured to the shop around them with a smile. "Would you like a flower, m'lady?" He asked.
Lisa cooed. "Oh, how could I deny such a gentleman?"
"Uh..." Donna looked between the two, unsure of how to move forward. "Some flowers for Miss Lisa? What kind would you like?"
Wind thought for a moment, his gaze drifting to the Lisa's hat. "What kind of flower is that?" He asked, pointing to the purple rose thing.
"It's a Sumerian Rose." Lisa said.
<That's slightly disappointing.>
I was hoping for a new plant species...
Wind turned back to Donna. "Do you have any roses?" He asked.
"Certainly," Donna nodded, already moving to collect said flowers.
"While we're here," Lisa began, conversationally. "You wouldn't happen to have 'The Pale Princess and the Six Pigmies' on hand, would you?"
Donna winced as she tied a rainbow of roses together. "Ah... that..." She sighed, turning to Lisa with an apologetic look. "The truth is I... lost it."
The book didn't really mean much to Wind, seeing as he still couldn't read. But taking a glance at Lisa showed that she cared very much. The woman had gone silent and her gaze had turned sharp with danger and annoyance.
Donna avoided Lisa's eyes by busying herself with wrapping up the flower bouquet. "A while back I realized the book was almost due. I was getting ready to turn it in to the library but I couldn't find it anywhere. I looked for days but I still came up emptyhanded. It's like somebody stole it. It was on my bedside table where I was sure I wouldn't lose it. But I don't know why anyone would steal it."
"Neither do I..." Lisa hummed, her annoyance shifting into contemplation. "I suppose, if it really was stolen than you've done nothing wrong." Lisa then scowled, lightning crackling in her eyes. "Our thief will be rewarded ten times your punishment instead."
...Wind was starting to understand why Lisa was employed by the Knights of Favonius.
That was hot.
<Wars!>
Lisa plucked the bouquet from Donna before strutting out of the shop. Wind and Donna scrambled to get the proper payment passed so Wind could catch up to her. Lisa stood outside the shop, calming herself by smelling the roses. She turned to Wind with a slightly strained smile once he reached her side.
"You remember the magical signature for our library books, right?" Lisa asked.
"Yes ma'am." Wind nodded, pulling out the Wind Waker.
"Good. Let's find that book, shall we?"
Wind didn't need to be told twice. He followed Lisa out of the city and into the wilderness, leading Lisa on a trail only he could see. Lisa was keeping up with him nicely, despite her trekking through the wilderness in four inch heels.
"I'm genuinely not sure why anyone would take that book." Lisa hummed. "It's not from the restricted section."
"Well, how old's the story?" Wind asked.
"Oh, about five hundred years or so." Lisa said. "It's fairly popular, too. Another reason why stealing that book is nonsense."
Five hundred years?
<Is it based on the thing Venti was talking about?>
"What's it about?" Wind asked.
"Oh?" Lisa smiled. "I didn't know you were a fan of fairytales."
Wind smiled. "My grandma likes to read them to me and my sister back home. Our favorite one is about a great flood."
"A flood?" Lisa hummed. "Are you talking of the Prophecy of Fontaine?"
"Uh... Yeah..." Wind drawled, internally wincing. He didn't know what that prophecy was but he didn't like it.
"A folktale than." Lisa corrected. "Something passed through word of mouth rather than written word. How traditional."
"Yeah." Wind chuckled, relieved Lisa wasn't going to dig into his lie. "So, what about that story?"
"I haven't read it in a long time." Lisa sighed. "But I believe it's about the daughter of the Night Mother falling in love with the Light Prince and thwarting the Six Pygmies through the prophecy of the Night Mother."
Wind frowned. The story didn't sound too important. Maybe it was based on something historical? Would it tell the story of the Cataclysm or was it just a fairytale? Or maybe there were smaller details inside the story that hid the truth.
"I can lend the book to you after we get it back, if you like." Lisa said.
"Could you?" Wind asked.
"Of course," Lisa cooed. "You'll need something to test that bookmark on, after all. Think of it as a gift for being my little helper today." She crouched down to pick up a berry off of a bush as she passed it. "After all, the bookmark is your prize for helping me with a bit of alchemy. I'd go to Albedo for the help but he's been quite busy with all the hubbub around Stormterror."
Wind blinked. "What's alchemy?"
Lisa stopped in her tracks. She turned to Wind with wide, disbelieving eyes.
"Pardon?"
Wind cleared his throat, trying to ignore the icky, crawling feeling climbing up his back. "What's alchemy?"
Lisa blinked. "You're seriously asking?"
Wind nodded, unable to form anymore words. His brothers were eerily silent and Wind wondered if they were even there at all. He hoped they were. He could really use their help right now.
Lisa thought for a moment, sizing Wind up with sharp eyes. "How old are you?"
Wind opened his mouth to answer but he couldn't make sounds come out. His mouth shut with a click. His eyes fell to the ground.
"Wind?" Lisa took a knee to try and meet Wind's eyes.
Wind looked away, his shoulders hitching up to his ears. He scuffed his foot in the dirt, accidentally sending dirt and dust into the air. Lisa cupped his face to turn it towards her and Wind couldn't bring himself to resist.
"Wind, how old are you?" Lisa's voice was gentle and encouraging.
Wind swallowed. "... fourteen..."
Lisa's brows furrowed, even as she gave Wind a small, proud smile. "When did you turn fourteen?"
Wind curled into himself, unable to look away from Lisa's bright, green eyes. His mouth flapped for a moment as he tried to find the words. Any words.
"... Day before we met..."
"Ah." Lisa sighed, eyes filling with sympathy. "Your family didn't get the chance to teach you, did they? They were gonna wait until after your birthday?"
Wind nodded along with Lisa's reasoning, hoping it would keep her talking. He needed her to keep talking. He couldn't ask questions and he needed answers. Answers his brothers couldn't give him.
Lisa stood, holding her hand out for Wind to take. "I'll give you a lesson once we've got our book back. Deal?"
Wind nodded, taking Lisa's hand. Lisa squeezed his hand and Wind squeezed back.
The rest of the journey was near silent. Lisa made observations, comments, and asked Wind a couple easy questions as they went but Wind couldn't respond past nodding or shaking his head. Still, Lisa was good at reading Wind's facial expressions and extrapolated his opinions from that alone.
Finding the cave wasn't particularly hard. Navigating the cave was even easier. Lisa was happy to let Wind get his frustration out by leaving all of the monsters to him as they moved.
Finding out that the "final boss" was an Abyss Mage was extremely disappointing and Wind wanted to break it's stupid mask.
"How did you find this place?" The mage demanded, staggering onto it's feet.
Lisa crossed her arms as she stared down the mage. "I have no care for where you little rascals hide yourselves away. I only want my book back." Lisa huffed. "How is it that you have time to conceal your stronghold with a magic seal yet not have enough time to check a book out of the library, properly. You have no respect for other people's work."
Wind stared at Lisa and didn't even try to hide the fact he was judging her. He thought they were supposed to be getting revenge for the stolen library book, not scolding a random monster.
Is she serious right now?
Kill the monster! It's right there!
<The fuck are you doing, lady?>
"You.." The Abyss Mage was just as confused as Wind. "You just want... the book?"
"Yes." Lisa nodded.
The mage paused. "You are also interested in unearthing the secrets hidden in this book?"
So there are secrets in the book!
<I knew it!>
"No." Lisa said.
"No?" Wind gaped.
<No?>
"No?" The mage asked, even more confused. "Who are you?"
"The librarian in charge of the book you've stolen." Lisa answered. "Though that should have already been clear." Lisa held out a hand to the mage. "Return the book. This is an ultimatum."
The mage snarled. "If you continue to insist on concealing your identity than I shall refuse to return this book. After all of the secrets it contains-"
The mage cut itself off as Lisa's vision pulsed. Wind took a step back as a ring of purple light glided outward from Lisa's feet.
Lisa flicked her wrist, as if swatting at a fly, and a bolt of purple lightning shot out from her fingers. The mage shrieked as it was hit, convulsing in place as electricity built, and built, and built. When Lisa's magic fell away, the mage fell limp onto the ground, twitching every so slightly.
Wind and his brothers watched the display of power in silence. Wind's jaw was on the floor. His gaze drifted to Lisa, who still had her hand raised with a pout.
"I did give you a warning, naughty boy." Lisa tutted, strutting forward. "If you'd behaved than you wouldn't have been punished."
Lisa's scary...
<She's so strong...>
She's only a librarian?
Why must I be cursed to have no physical form... Curse this land!
Lisa huffed as she leaned over the unconscious mage. "Such troublesome work. Do you even have my book on you?"
Wind. Check that tile thingy.
Wind looked over to see an out of place tile that looked like those mechanisms that other domains had. Wind stepped on it and the floor shifted. Lisa and Wind both looked up to see a large chunk of floor sink, as if being lowered by a rope. The two shared a look before nodding and heading down the hole in the floor.
Down below was a small collection of well kept books. They were all different shapes, sizes, and designs but they all had the same look that Amber's book of fairytales had. Lisa picked up one of the books with a satisfied smile.
"Ah, here we are." She sighed, hugging the book to her chest. "Good thing it's not damaged. I would have fed that little beast one of my potions if it was."
"Bad experiment?" Wind asked, his voice small.
Lisa gave him a playful yet wicked smile. "I would never do such a thing. I would have given it a proper potion with some nasty side effects. Something to make it squirm."
Wind's face screwed up in distaste. Lisa laughed.
"I suppose it would be overkill. Especially for a book that's not even from the restricted section." Lisa then frowned, looking down at the book in her arms. "It's still strange that this book would be stolen. It has no special properties or any profound meanings. So why would the Abyss Order want it?"
"The Abyss what?" Wind asked.
"The Abyss Order." Lisa replied, leading Wind back to the floating section of floor. "Though there are many things a vision can control, the Abyss is not one of them. While it can mix with elemental energy, it is damaging to people and the land. The Abyss Order harnesses this power to ruin Teyvat, though I couldn't tell you why."
"They just want to ruin Teyvat?" Wind asked.
"Yes," Lisa nodded. "You'd be most familiar with the Abyss Order through Hilichurls and Abyss Mages."
<Abyss Mages? Like the Abyss Mage that was controlling Dvalin?>
Perhaps...
What more can we learn about the Abyss Order?
I believe Master Diluc should have some information on this. He has many contacts, after all.
Wouldn't Venti be better?
Venti's been asleep too long. He might not even know what the Abyss Order is.
<Jean won't know anything either, if Lisa barely knows anything.>
<Kaeya knows things he shouldn't. Maybe we should ask him too.>
Wind pursed his lips. It looked like he had a lot of research to do.
---
Wind watched Lisa add materials to what she called a "crafting table", all of which he'd watched her collect during their walk through the woods, as well as a couple of the roses Wind had bought. Wind couldn't understand what any of it was supposed to do to make a talking bookmark but he supposed Lisa was the expert. Well, maybe not an expert, seeing as they were in the lab of the best alchemist in the Ordo Favonius but still.
Lisa placed a normal bookmark into the center of the table before waving Wind over. "Are you ready, Cutie?"
"Yes!" Wind whined. "Finally! I've been waiting forever!"
Patience, Sailor.
These things take time, Tune.
Lisa chuckled, pinching Wind's cheek, much to his displeasure. "And here I thought you wanted a book or two to go with your bookmark. But if you're insistent on being so bratty-"
"Wait, wait, no! I can behave!" Wind quickly corrected, clasping his hands together in a pleading motion.
Lisa smiled, ruffling Wind's hair. However, Wind flinched when she pulled out a single strand of his hair, He rubbed his head as she placed it on top of the bookmark.
"Alright, we're all set to begin." Lisa said. "Now watch carefully. All alchemical reactions have a rune to help them along."
Lisa let the tip of her finger spark with elemental energy before tracing it through the air above the crafting table. A trail of glittering purple was left behind, forming into a collection of intersecting circles. It almost reminded Wind of how he'd used burning sticks in the past to solve puzzles and attack weaker monsters.
When Lisa was done with her pattern she raised her hand, spreading her fingers as far apart from each other as possible. She made sure Wind was paying attention, only moving again when Wind nodded. She placed her hand flat on the circular rune, causing it to burst with brilliant, white light.
Wind gasped as his vision was filled with dancing lights. His brothers 'oohed' and 'aahed' but Wind was entranced. It was like the light of his arrows when they hit their mark, only calmer; more alive. Like dancing moonlight and the golden sunrise mixed into one beautiful performance, Wind had never seen anything that had taken his breathe away as easily as this.
Fast as it appeared, the dancing lights were gone. Wind blinked, doing his best to curb his disappointment. His fingers itched to bring the lights back. He wanted to make a reaction of his own just to see them again.
Lisa reached out to the now much emptier crafting table in order to pick up the bookmark left behind. It looked very different than it had when it had first been placed on the table. Now it was patterned like the ocean, golden flower prints and strands turning into blue and green waves. The end of the bookmark held a charm like windchimes, made up of sapphire feathers, emerald leaves, and a golden crown that held the whole thing together.
"There we are." Lisa said, satisfied. She easily handed the bookmark over to Wind. "Let me go collect those books for you. Don't go anywhere, now." She added, already heading out of the lab.
Wind traced his fingers over the bookmark, picking out every flower and water droplet he could find.
It's beautiful.
It suits you.
<Didn't take you for the flowery type, Sailor.>
It was Lisa's creation, not Wind's. If anything, she's the flowery one.
<Do you have to ruin my fun?>
Duh. Someone has to push back against your snark. Wars is too busy being a skirt chasing dad.
I am not acting like a dad.
You've always acted fatherly towards me and Wind. You've just lessened such tendencies towards me because of the time that has passed for both of us. Wind has had no such time.
"What are you doing in here?"
Wind startled, nearly dropping his bookmark. He turned to find a blonde man that could have been mistaken for Legend, if his hair was just a few shades darker. And if he didn't have a yellow, diamond mark on his neck.
Whoa! Legend has a twin!
Holy shit.
<This is uncanny...>
Wind gave the man a nervous smile. "Um, you wouldn't happen to be Albedo, would you?"
The man raised a brow. "I am. And you are?"
"I'm Wind, uh, sir."
"The Honorary Knight?"
"That's me."
Albedo hummed. "That doesn't explain why you're in my lab."
"Lisa told me to wait here until she got back." Wind answered, holding his bookmark protectively to his chest.
Albedo tilted his head. "Did she make you an enchanted bookmark?"
"Yeah," Wind nodded, ducking his head. "I, uh, can't read here. So she made me something to help."
"Ah," Albedo moved to take the seat beside Wind. "Did you assister her in this endeavor?"
"Not really," Wind admitted. "I helped her collect books today, so this is how she's repaying me. I wish I knew how she did it though. I want to see her do it again."
"You're interested in alchemy, I presume?" Albedo asked.
Wind nodded, vigorously. "It's so pretty! I want to see the lights dance again!"
Albedo's eyebrows rose with interest. "You like the light the reactions create? Why?"
Wind's face screwed up with irritation. "What kind of question is that? I like it because it's pretty. It-" Wind hesitated, his mind flicking back to light arrows and moonlight. "I guess it reminds me of home. But- But not in a bad way. In a 'my brothers are going to be so jealous I can do this' kinda way- No, wait. That's not right. That still sounds bad. It's a-"
"I think I understand." Albedo cut in. He turned, pulling a book from a nearby desk drawer before handing it to Wind. "Read that and see if you keep your newfound interest. It contains the basics of alchemy and how to keep yourself safe when experimenting. Don't worry about returning it. I already have it memorized."
Wind smiled, taking the offered book. "Thank you, Sir. Albedo."
"Already stealing away my little helper?"
Wind and Albedo turned as Lisa entered the room, two books in her arms. Lisa gave them both a warm smile as she strut over to Wind. she placed the two books into Wind's already full hands, forcing him to juggle his items into some form of order or risk dropping them.
"Alright, Cutie. The story you requested and a travel guide for Mondstadt. I think that should be enough to get you caught up."
"Caught up?" Albedo asked.
"Our little hero just turned fourteen a month ago." Lisa informed the Chief Alchemist. "He's trying to teach himself everything he couldn't be taught before."
Albedo hummed. "I see." Albedo turned to Wind. "In that case, feel free to come to me with any questions on alchemy you may have. If you can't find me here than I can always be found on Dragonspine."
"Dragonspine?" Wind asked. "Amber told me I'm not allowed up there until Stormterror is dealt with. Says it's 'dangerous enough' or something." Wind said, making air quotes with his fingers.
"Oh, it's plenty dangerous." Lisa nodded. "But I'm sure you'd be more than fine. Just find some winter gear and a reliable source of fire."
Hssss... Yeah... Blizzards suck.
Wind shrugged. "We'll see how things are going once Stormterror calms down."
"Right." Albedo said, eyes narrowing slightly. "Calm."
Wind looked out the window at the nearly dark sky and hissed. "Damn, it's late already?" He muttered. He stood, gifts held firmly to his chest. "I've gotta check on Teacake. It was nice to meet you, Sir. Albedo. And it was fun working with you, Lady Lisa. Thanks for the gifts. Bye!"
Wind was out the door as the two called their farewells. Wind's brothers chattered over his shoulders as he dropped his gifts off in his room. He was quick to leave Home Base and to the training grounds, where Teacake's pen had been built.
Wind unlocked the pen, knocking on the wood out of habit. He ducked into the pen, grinning when an excited squeal met his arrival.
"Hi, sweet girl!" Wind happily greeted, locking the gate behind himself before kneeling to pet his piglet.
Teacake sniffed insistently at Wind, circling him and gently headbutting him enough to almost make him lose his balance. Wind giggled as Teacake's quick breathes tickled his skin. He scooped the piglet into his arms, struggling to pick her up.
"Oof! Teacake, you're getting big! You're gonna be too big to carry, soon."
Teacake whined at such news. Wind cooed, scratching her under the chin.
"Oh, you're alright. You're just a growing girl. You're gonna be so big and strong one day. Maybe you could fight with me! Like Wild likes to do with the animals he tries to tame."
Hey, I've had great success!
For five minutes.
<The bear almost ate me!>
Teacake wiggled out of Wind's arms, trotting over to her little nest of hay. Wind chuckled, moving to refill the water and food troughs. Well, not troughs. They were more flower pots than anything that should feed a boar. Still, they were big enough to feed Teacake twice a day, so Wind would take his wins where he could get them.
"Alright, last feeding of the night." Wind said.
Teacake looked up but otherwise didn't move from her spot.
"Teacake? You hungry?"
Teacake snuffed, rolling to get more comfortable.
Wind's brothers laughed.
<I think Teacake has the right idea.>
Time to turn in for the night.
You've earned a good night of rest, kid.
Wind sighed. "I don't know if I'm ready." He sat down heavily beside Teacake, absently petting her back. "What if there's no news tomorrow?"
Than I suppose we'll go investigate for ourselves. For now, you must rest.
Wind frowned, looking down to see Teacake already dozing off.
<...I might know a song that could help you relax.>
Wind perked up at that. "What kind of song?"
<A magical one. It's meant to awaken dreamers but I think it could chase away nightmares too.>
Wind smiled. "I'd like that. Thank you, Legend."
<Yeah... Your welcome...>
Instead of making his way back to his room in Home Base, where it was dry, and clean, and empty, Wind stayed in Teacakes pen, where it was smelly, and itchy, and filled with love. As Wind laid in dry hay and closed his eyes, Legend played a hauntingly peaceful melody that reminded Wind of ghost ships, ocean kings, and trapped treasure hunters. And, as Wind fell asleep, he almost thought he could feel cool fingers running through his hair.