If Only

3

Tartaglia was waiting in the area they decided on the day before. He saw Lumine in the distance and waved at her. "You're here early." Commented Lumine. "You came early too," Childe pointed out. The traveler blankly stared at Childe for a whole minute without saying anything. Everyone was quiet, including Paimon. Childe uncomfortably averted his gaze, looking around to avoid looking back at Lumine. Paimon's eyes followed back and forth from Lumine and Childe, trying to figure out what was going on. She finally broke the silence by asking what plans he made. Lumine snaps out of her daze and apologizes to her friends for zoning out like that. They laugh it off and head over to Wanmin Restaurant to grab some breakfast.

Over breakfast, Tartaglia lists out all the places and activities he planned out for them. He excitedly tells them about his plans to fight ruin gaurds at the Yaoguang Shoals, a two night stay in a small village , and some sightseeing at Luhua Pool. " Of course there's a battle included in this trip. You guys better watch out for Paimon!". The Harbinger went on and on about his battle plans to defeat four ruin gaurds with Lumine, while Paimon butted in to make fun of Childe's thirst for fights. Lumine intently listened while adding her own ideas to his plans. The blonde lady wanted to collect some shells from the beaches of Liyue, and so Tartaglia added the activity to the itinerary. "What about what Paimon wants? Nobody asks Paimon what Paimon wants!" Childe and Lumine laughed together and asked her what she wanted to do. She smiled and said that she wanted to visit Monstade because it had been so long since they last visited it. Lumine agreed, and so, a second, new activity was added to the list: visit Monstade.

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Nestled in a secluded corner of Liyue, Luhua Pool lay like a hidden jewel, its serene beauty untouched by the rush of time. The pool's water, impossibly clear and still, mirrored the azure sky above and the verdant foliage surrounding it with flawless precision. It seemed as though nature had crafted a liquid canvas, capturing the essence of tranquility in every ripple. At the periphery of the pool, ancient stone structures rose gracefully from the ground. Their weathered surfaces and intricate carvings hinted at a bygone era, their presence a silent testament to the craftsmanship of those who once revered this place. The stones seemed to merge seamlessly with the natural world around them, as if they had always belonged to the landscape.

"Paimon has always loved this place, and now Paimon finally gets to see this in peace." she beamed. She flew closer to the edge of the cliff overlooking the pool. The fairy excitedly invites Childe and Lumine to stand beside her take in the magnificent view. The Harbinger looks at Astrid as she stares, transfixed at the beauty of the water body. He thinks it's been a while since she has had time to relax and promises to himself that he will do his best to make her feel welcomed. Lumine catches his eyes and asks him why he isn't enjoying the view, Childe says he is and turns back to look at the pool.

Under the serene gaze of Luhua Pool, a modest picnic scene was set up amidst the lush grass. The gentle breeze carried the sweet scent of wildflowers, mingling with the subtle aroma of the lunch being laid out on the mat. Lumine and Childe worked harmoniously as they set up their picnic spot. Lumine spread out a soft, checkered mat on the ground, smoothing out the creases with a delicate touch. Her eyes occasionally drifted towards the waters of the pool, her expression reflecting contentment. Beside her, Childe carefully arranged  dishes—fresh fruits, pastries, and savory treats. In the air, Paimon flitted about on a foraging mission, her curious eyes scanning the surrounding flora for any extra ingredients that might add a special touch to their picnic. With a cheerful hum, she darted from one flower to another, occasionally pausing to admire a particularly intriguing flower.

As Lumine and Childe worked side by side, their playful banter added a layer of warmth to the scene. "Astrid, we should've set up our tents, I didn't anticipate it'll take so long to reach here.". Lumine looked at the setting sun and back at Childe saying they can set it up after they're done having dinner. Paimon returned with her small harvest, her tiny hands holding an assortment of wild herbs and flowers. She landed gracefully on the mat, "Paimon found so much cool stuff around here!". Lumine and Childe looked on with amused delight, their faces illuminated by the gentle light of lanterns that had been set out. The trio settled onto the mat, the combination of delicious food, stunning scenery, and the comforting presence of friends creating a sweet moment. 

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Lumine wakes up early just as the sun rises to start packing for their journey ahead. Their next stop was the Yaoguang Shoal and it was a long trek. While she moved around smoothly, packing stray items, Childe woke up hearing Lumine walk around and started to help her pack. "You can call me Ajax you know. Childe is just a codename." The traveler looked up at him while she was picking up the lanterns and nodded. "Alright, Ajax, please wake Paimon up. We need to pack up the tent." With everything packed, they set off down Cuijue Slope. The path was rugged, with rocky outcrops and wild vegetation, but the early morning light cast a warm glow over the landscape. The descent was steep, and Childe's confident steps contrasted with the cautious tread of Lumine behind him.

As they reached the base of the slope, the expansive Guili Plains stretched out before them. The plains, dotted with ancient ruins and wildflowers, seemed almost endless. The open sky and the gentle breeze provided a beautiful backdrop. Ajax moved alongside Lumine.  Occasionally, Childe would extend a hand to help Lumine navigate the uneven ground, his touch lingering just a moment longer than necessary.
"You have really soft hands for someone who fights a lot." Childe grinned while helping her down.
"My hands are perfectly normal, Childe." she rolled her eyes 

The long trek and endless Hilichurls wore them out. They proceeded to a path that led them to a secluded grove amidst the ruins. Here, they paused, resting on large, flat stones while the sun climbed higher in the sky. The grove was shaded and peaceful, a gentle breeze rustling the wildflowers nearby. Paimon floated beside her friend asking for left over cakes from last night. "I had the last one while you were Asleep Paimon." grinned Ajax while Paimon threw a tiny tantrum. They shared a simple meal of dried fruits and pastries. As the day wore on, they continued across the plains, the landscape a sprawling canvas of green and gold.
We've visited Guili Plains so many times, but it just feels different now doesn't it Astrid?" Lumine smiled at Paimon and said that it was definitely because of great company. The little girl giggled and thanked her friend for the compliment and hugged her. "Wait, did you mean Ajax?". They burst out laughing and Lumine assured Paimon that she felt that for the both of them.

As the late afternoon sun cast longer shadows, casting warm, golden hues across the Guili Plains, Lumine, Ajax, and Paimon continued their journey. The distant Yaoguang Shoals sparkled on the horizon, a beacon of relief after their long trek through the grasslands. Childe, walking beside Lumine, couldn't resist a playful grin. "You know, if you keep up this pace, we might actually get there in a few weeks. I have to admit, you're making this look so easy."

Lumine raised an eyebrow, a teasing glint in her eye. "As if you're walking any faster than I am!"

Childe chuckled, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "True, but some things are worth savoring." Lumine's cheeks warmed slightly, a subtle flush of pink appearing against her fair skin. She maintained a light, playful demeanor as she processed Childe's teasing.  Paimon chimed in adding to the light banter between the two of them. His grin broadened as he gave Lumine a gentle nudge with his shoulder.  

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End of Part 3