Chapter 19: A New Addition

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The sun was just beginning to set, casting a warm golden glow over Viyadra Village. The usual sounds of the forest were muted, a gentle rustling of leaves and the distant chirping of crickets filling the air. Tighnari, ever attuned to the forest's subtleties, was standing by the edge of the village when he heard the familiar, rhythmic crunch of footsteps approaching.

He had learned to recognize Cyno's distinct stride over the years—a steady, purposeful cadence that always signaled his arrival. Today was no different, but Tighnari could sense something unusual. Curiosity piqued, he adjusted his stance, preparing for the meeting.

As Cyno emerged from the tree line, Tighnari's eyes widened slightly. The General Mahamatra was accompanied by a young girl with green hair and a wary but hopeful expression. Cyno's stern face softened just a fraction as he approached Tighnari, Collei standing quietly beside him.

Collei's eyes light up "It's the day we first met!"

"Tighnari," Cyno said with his characteristic bluntness, as if delivering a routine report. "This is Collei. She's our daughter now."

Kaveh, as many others, breaks into laughter "Wow Cyno, as blunt as usual!"

Alhaitham grins at their friend "Typical Cyno."

Tighnari blinked, processing the statement with a mix of surprise and amusement. Cyno's tone was as flat and unadorned as it always was, reminiscent of his most dreadful jokes. Tighnari struggled to suppress a chuckle at the sheer absurdity of the situation.

"Ah, so you've decided to adopt a child as casually as you would report the weather?" Tighnari said, a playful glint in his eye. He turned to Collei, offering a warm, reassuring smile. "Welcome to Viyadra, Collei. I'm Tighnari. I'm sure you'll find this place a safe and welcoming home."

Collei managed a shy smile, her eyes reflecting a mix of relief and trepidation. The transition from Mondstadt to Sumeru was clearly a significant change for her, and Tighnari could sense her apprehension. He extended a gentle hand towards her, indicating a nearby seat where she could rest.

As the evening progressed, Tighnari and Cyno introduced Collei to the village and made her feel comfortable. It was clear that Cyno's straightforward approach was complemented by Tighnari's nurturing demeanor. The two of them worked seamlessly together, showing Collei around and helping her adjust.

Later that night, after Collei had been shown to her new room and had fallen asleep, Tighnari and Cyno found themselves alone by the fire. Tighnari took a deep breath and sighed, the weight of the day settling upon him.

"Cyno," he began, his voice carrying a note of exasperation mixed with fondness, "you really have a knack for making grand announcements in the most casual manner. 'Our daughter now,' indeed. You could at least pretend to be more... ceremonious."

Laughter echoes through the theater once again.

Cyno looked at him with a raised eyebrow, his expression unmoved. "I thought it was efficient. Besides, I'm not one for unnecessary theatrics."

Tighnari shook his head, a smile tugging at his lips despite himself. "Well, efficiency aside, I suppose it's good to have her here. She seems like a brave and resilient young girl. I'm sure she'll fit in well with us."

Cyno nodded, his gaze softening slightly. "She's been through a lot. I believe she'll find some peace here."

Tighnari leaned back, the firelight casting shadows on his face. "You know, Cyno, despite your bluntness and lack of pomp, you do have a knack for doing the right thing. Collei is fortunate to have you."

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