Oath [BL; Book 2]

23

Aether scurried hiding in the bushes. He popped his head out and glanced around then hiding again and shuffling around in his bag. Staying there a moment he sighed and smiled to himself. "If I can get to the water, I can teleport to the city. Maybe I should collect some treasures!" Excited about the new area in Fontaine, he planned his busy day to explore, however... "Haa, too bad Paimon had to go and get lost while we were diving. I bet she's somewhere underwater still." Relaxing a bit he got out his map looking for a way to find her. "Should I put up posters? Let's just head into the city." He saw a chance to run out and darted for the water.

The Fatui that were chasing him saw and pursued but thankfully he dove in on time. They didn't come after and he grinned free of their chase. Swimming to a waypoint he teleported to the city, yet had no luck finding Paimon. He even tried to bribe some cats to lead the way, but ended up spending too much time petting them.

Onward he found no clues as to where she could have gone and sighed spending the night with Lyney and Lynette. Freminet was also pleased he stayed and they spent most their time asking Aether questions about his journey. Though they were Fatui, and Aether felt he couldn't trust them much, he did try to build that trust again slowly. As far as he was concerned his life matters were a topic they shouldn't discuss leaving only the tales of his battles.

After some rest he was back at it, only to find nothing yet again. Going to  explore the sea he checked every nook and cranny in hopes to find her but he couldn't. It was now that he worried if she was truly alright. Another day had gone by like this, an emptiness in his chest where a void began to grow. Sitting on the edge of a cliff he frowned feeling sorrow where it was often felt.

"Is she okay? Where could she have gone? I'm so worried.." Aether leaned back on his hands and wondered where she could have gone. Lyney walked up beside him and took a seat too,

"Everything alright?"

"Yeah, I'm just worried." He smiled speaking honestly. "It hasn't been long but what if something happened to her?"

"Let's not think of negative outcomes, hm?" Lyney smiled, "I'm sure she's out somewhere eating a lot of food while you stress over where she is! Let's keep searching. Together."

"Yeah, hm.. but we've tried everything."

"Teyvat is quite the large map, could your friends from other nations assist? Maybe, with chance, she found herself with another one of your friends?"

"Ah! That's a good idea Lyney!" He thought so, "I'll ask them to see if they
Can help find her! You're a genius!"

"Ahaha, please, it was only a thought."

"A brilliant one! I'll be back!" He got up running off.

Lyney watched him go. That was all he could do.

In Sumeru he managed to find Cyno and inform him. Word got around quickly to their friends. In Inazuma and Mondstat he found their help was gifted right away.

Lastly, going to Liyue he knew just who to go see. Appearing at Wangshu Inn he went to the balcony high up but didn't see Xiao. That was fine as he could always come back. Aether went into the harbor where Ganyu informed him she had indeed saw Paimon.

"Huh? You did?" He was surprised, "Are you sure? I mean, we were all the way in Fontaine."

"Yes, I can almost guarantee it." She gave a sure nod, "She was with Zhongli moments ago. I will try to contact him and see where her whereabouts are."

"Thanks! That really helps! I hope I can find her.." he sighed.

"Will you be staying in Liyue for the time being? I can arrange a room for you in the Jade Chamber."