Oath [BL; Book 2]

55

Aether smiled waving at Yoimiya who had just finished her business, she invited him to light some sparklers but he politely declined explaining he had things to do. Noticing this behavior, Zhongli followed as they explored Inazuma for its hidden treasures and secrets. Aether and Paimon went on and on about mora as they easily got distracted by treasures nearby or camps to raid.

Zhongli tagged along to help, but something seemed different about Aether who had taken the Electro element into himself for their exploration. Though he couldn't much feel it, there was clearly something off. Getting him alone while they made camp, Zhongli seized the opportunity to ask him, "Traveler."

"Hm?" Aether looked at him having finished setting up the tent.

"Might we chat a moment?"

"Oh, sure. What's wrong?" Aether asked seemingly fine. His complexion was good and he was as bright as always. "Did Paimon steal the tea leaves again? Haa, I'll have to scold her later."

"It's nothing of the sort." Zhongli said but saw he didn't have Aether's full attention. The look in his eyes eas bright but it felt as though he wasn't exactly there. "I was merely curious to know if you were feeling well."

"Huh? Oh, yeah, I mean. I feel great. We got some good treasure today, and we even beat that boss! It was really strong!" He laughed happily. It sounded empty.

Concerned now, Zhongli approached the topic lightly saying, "Hm, yes. That is something worth celebrating, no? Shall I prepare some tea?"

"Ah, yeah! That sounds great! I think it'll go really good with the Sakura cookies Paimon wants!"

They gathered the ingredients. All the while Zhongli spoke short sentences, and Aether's responses were also short. This was unusual as one question would often kead Aether to continue rambling for some time. These moments were favored by Zhongli who rather liked listening to Aether's troubles on his journey. Giving him advice was also a good manner he had gotten used to.

In Aether's serenitea pot he was more open and excited, however now he seemed closed off from interaction. Alas they were alone again, their travel companion, someone hailing from Inazuma, had gone with Paimon to collect lavender melons.

With this opportunity he sat down near Aether who peeled some fresh fruit for a snack. "Traveler?"

"Mm?" He looked at him with a smile, it felt forced.

"Is there anything you'd like to discuss?"

"Um? Ahaha, are you okay Zhongli? You've been asking me stuff like that all day." He went back to cutting the fruit into cute shapes for Paimon. "If I didn't know better, could it be you want to talk about something? I can't say my opinion would really matter in the face of wisdom!" His teasing was light and gave Zhongli hope that he was simply imagining things.

"Nonesense, I value your opinion greatly, as a friend and travel companion." Zhongli stated that first then went on, "I have noticed you are more reserved, has something happened?

"Ahhh," he let out a troubled sigh, but regardless of that he said, "it's fine. I'll figure it out on my own. I always have!" His grin was filled with sadness. "There's nothing to worry about, but thank you. I'm glad you're willing to listen."

Zhongli found it hard to get through to him, but he wasn't giving up. They had already spent many days in Inazuma. He wanted to be sure before asking, so he covered it up, "How about we take a break? We may travel back to Liyue and have a small get together with Xianyun and the other Adepti."

"Hm, that sounds nice, yeah! Let's do that!" He agreed.

This surprised Zhongli who was expecting him to decline. "Are you cerntain?"