Chapter Text
As Aether, Arlecchino, and Paimon stepped through the doors of the Hearth, a stampede of excited children charged toward them. Small voices filled the air, overlapping in a chorus of questions, greetings, and laughter.
"Traveler! You're back!"
"Paimon! Did you bring us snacks?"
"Father! Welcome home!"
Aether chuckled, waving at the children while Paimon floated overhead, enjoying the attention. Arlecchino's presence commanded a quieter, more respectful approach — the children loved her, but they also feared her as their strict, protective "Father."
It didn't take long for the sharp-eyed older kids to spot the silver ring on Arlecchino's finger. The realization spread like wildfire, and soon, all eyes were wide with curiosity.
"Wait! Is that a ring?"
"Father has a ring! Who gave it to you?!"
"Traveler! Did you do this?!"
The bolder ones crowded around Aether, eyes glimmering with mischief. Paimon, not missing a beat, lifted her tiny hand proudly to show off her own ring. "Look, look! Paimon got a ring too!" she announced gleefully. Gasps and giggles followed.
"Traveler, are you married to Father now?!"
"Did Father make you propose, Traveler?"
"Is Paimon your daughter now?"
Aether laughed, hands raised in mock surrender. "Whoa, whoa! Slow down! It’s not like that!”
"But you gave Father a ring!" one of the older kids insisted, their eyes sparkling. "Isn't that what husbands do?"
Aether scratched the back of his head, casting a glance toward Arlecchino, who watched from a short distance. Her expression was unreadable, but there was a faint smile — the kind reserved for these quiet, chaotic moments.
"Well," Aether began, still cornered by the relentless questioning. "Rings can mean a lot of things. This one... it's just to show how special your Father is to me."
Paimon floated closer, giggling. "And Paimon's special too! That's why I have one!"
The kids burst into giggles, a few of the older ones nudging each other knowingly. Arlecchino took the moment to quietly slip away, heading toward her office. She had her duties to resume — reports to hear from Lyney, Lynette, and Freminet and to catch up on all that transpired during her absence. As she stepped into her office, the sound of Aether's warm laughter and Paimon's playful squeals echoed down the hall. Arlecchino's smile lingered for a moment longer before she straightened her posture, slipping seamlessly back into her role as the head of the Hearth.
Arlecchino entered her office with the composed grace she was known for. The door clicked softly behind her, cutting off the lively sounds of the children still hounding Aether for answers. The air in the room was calm — a stark contrast to the boisterous energy just outside. Waiting for her were Lyney, Lynette, and Freminet, standing in a neat line. As soon as they saw her, they gave a respectful bow. Arlecchino’s sharp eyes swept over the trio, immediately assessing that they had kept everything in order during her absence.
"Welcome back, Father," Lyney began, his charismatic smile in place. "We've managed things well in your stead. Here are the detailed reports for your review."
Lynette handed over a stack of neatly compiled documents. "There were no significant disruptions, and everyone followed the schedule. The children have been diligent."
Freminet, quieter than his siblings, nodded. "The older members who returned from Mondstadt settled in without issue. They're grateful for the experience."
Arlecchino accepted the reports, skimming through them quickly. She nodded, satisfied. “Well done, all of you. The Hearth remains as steadfast as ever.”
As the formalities concluded, Lyney’s eyes glimmered with mischief. His gaze flicked to the silver ring glinting on Arlecchino's finger. “By the way, Father... Congratulations on the ring. It suits you quite well.”
Arlecchino’s expression remained unreadable, but there was a hint of amusement in her eyes. “Thank you. It was... a thoughtful gesture.”
Lynette's eyes sparkled knowingly, a rare smirk playing on her lips. "A very thoughtful gesture from the Traveler, I presume?"
Freminet glanced between his siblings and Arlecchino, piecing together the meaning of their words. His lips twitched slightly, a subtle, knowing smile appearing.
“We’ll have to congratulate Traveler as well,” Lyney added, his grin widening. "Perhaps ask him what he thinks of the ring."
Arlecchino raised a brow, a subtle challenge. “You may try, but don’t think you’ll get far.”
Lyney chuckled, taking that as permission for a little mischief. The trio made their exit, their playful energy palpable. As they walked away, whispers of schemes to tease Aether floated through the hall. Arlecchino watched them go, the corner of her mouth curving just slightly. Even after all these years, those three never failed to make her days a little more interesting. With a quiet breath, she returned to the reports — the ring on her finger a comforting weight.
The second half of the day was a blur of congratulations and teasing. Every corner of the Hearth was filled with knowing smirks, whispered jokes, and playful prodding about the silver ring glinting on Arlecchino's finger. By the time the children retired to their quarters, leaving behind a quiet stillness, Aether and Arlecchino finally escaped to their bedroom. As usual, Arlecchino latched onto Aether the moment they lay down, her arms securely wrapped around him. She squeezed him tightly, savouring the cool, soothing sensation of his Hydro-infused presence. It was her little comfort — the relief from the ever-burning curse she constantly held at bay.
The two rested in silence for a while, the weight of the day's events settling over them. Eventually, the topic drifted to the ring and all the reactions it had stirred.
“The ring is... well-crafted,” Arlecchino murmured quietly, her fingers tracing its etched surface.
Aether chuckled softly. “You've been looking at it all day, haven't you?”
She didn’t respond, but her silence spoke louder than any words could.
Aether smirked, pleased with himself. “I had to work in the forge in my teapot to make it,” he explained. “Couldn't wear a shirt during forging, though — fire safety and all that.”
Arlecchino's crimson eyes glimmered with intrigue. She imagined Aether, all hot and sweaty, his toned arms swinging a hammer over heated metal. The image was... enticing. “I wouldn’t mind seeing that,” she said, a hint of mischief in her voice. “All hot and sweaty, sculpting rings... You'd make a very appealing blacksmith.”
Aether laughed, his gaze warm and teasing. “Well, the ring is already made, so there’s no need for me to forge anything else.”
Arle, now more interested than ever, leaned in. “Then make some jewellery. For all your friends. Watching their reactions would be amusing, especially those who try to compete for your attention.”
Aether raised a brow. “You just want an excuse to show off that you got the first one. And that I put it on your finger myself.”
A faint smirk curled at the corner of Arlecchino's lips. “Maybe.”
Aether grinned, tilting his head to the side. “You know, Perry, you're kind of cute when you overthink things.”
Arle blinked, momentarily caught off guard. Cute. Of all the things she had been called — intimidating, cold-blooded, Father, Mommy — no one had ever called her cute. It was a strange, foreign compliment, but it warmed her heart nonetheless.
"Careful, Traveler," she replied, a playful edge returning to her voice. "You might have to say that more often."
“In private?” Aether teased.
“Obviously,” she deadpanned. “I do have a reputation to maintain.”
Aether's eyes sparkled with mischief. “Well, since you seem to enjoy the idea of me working shirtless at the forge, what if I got to watch you do the same?”
Arlecchino smirked. “My attire is built to withstand my Pyro — it won't catch fire. So, no shirtless forging for me.”
Aether feigned a dramatic sigh. “A shame. I'd have loved to watch.”
Arlecchino's eyes glimmered knowingly. “If you want to see that, all you have to do is ask. Though it looks like you're already imagining it.”
Before Aether could respond, Arlecchino rolled onto her side, pulling Aether's head gently to her chest. She held him close, her arms encircling him like an unyielding shield. “If you're going to dream, Butterfly, this should be a better view,” she teased, her voice soft yet teasing.
Aether's breath hitched, his face pressed to the softness of her chest. Her steady heartbeat thudded against his ear, and for a moment, his mind went blank — all thoughts replaced by the warmth and closeness of her embrace. He tightened his hold around her, a silent acknowledgement of their bond. The day's mischief, the lingering doubts, and the teasing all melted away in that quiet, intimate moment. Gradually, with the weight of the day behind them, they both drifted into a peaceful slumber — a protector and her Traveler, entwined in a shared sense of belonging.
Aether stirred awake, his eyes slowly fluttering open. His head was still cradled against Arlecchino's chest, just as it had been when they fell asleep. Her heartbeat was a steady, rhythmic drum against his ear — so soothing that it must have kept him locked in place the entire night. As comforting as it was, his body now protested, a dull ache spreading across his shoulder and neck from the prolonged position. Carefully, he eased himself from her hold, making sure not to disturb her. Arlecchino remained still for a moment, but as soon as his touch left her, she woke, like someone had taken away her source of comfort. Her eyes followed Aether as he padded quietly to the window, his gaze settling on the distant Fontaine skyline glimmering in the morning sun.
Before Aether could lose himself in thought, he felt the familiar warmth of Arlecchino’s arms circling his waist from behind. Her chin rested on his head — a gesture that was as protective as it was affectionate. Her presence engulfed him, grounding and calming all at once.
“Morning, Perry,” Aether murmured, a small smile forming on his lips.
“Morning, Butterfly,” Arlecchino replied, her voice gentle yet steady.
Aether’s eyes remained on the skyline. “Did you ever think we’d wake up like this? Back when I first visited the Hearth over a year ago?”
Arlecchino hummed softly, her breath ruffling his hair. “I remember that first visit... when you mistakenly called me beautiful.”
Aether chuckled softly, recalling the slip. “That was an honest mistake. I got caught up in storytelling.”
Arlecchino's grip tightened slightly, her voice lowering. “I've been called many things before, but rarely beautiful. And never by someone who genuinely meant it.”
Aether slipped one of her hands from his waist and brought it to his lips, planting a gentle kiss on her knuckles. “I still mean it, Perry. Always.”
The room settled into a comfortable silence, the two of them savouring the quiet intimacy of the morning. However, Aether soon became aware of just how close Arlecchino was — her body pressed firmly against his back, the curves of her figure unmistakable. Her embrace felt both loving and teasing, a quiet invitation wrapped in warmth.
He smirked; his tone playful. “If you keep this up, Perry, I'll have to take you back to bed and take my revenge.”
Arlecchino didn’t move away. Instead, she pressed even closer, a smirk evident in her voice. “I’d like to see you try.”
Aether turned smoothly in her embrace, his arms sweeping her off her feet in a fluid motion. Arlecchino’s eyes widened slightly — not from surprise, but from the boldness of his response. "Keeping me pinned to your chest all night and then hugging me like this in the morning," Aether teased, his voice low yet playful. "Seems like you need to be taught a lesson."
Before Arlecchino could counter, Aether carried her back to the bed, his expression a delightful mix of love and mischief. Their playful banter and tender teasing quickly gave way to a more intense, passionate connection — a tangled mess of warmth, laughter, and love.
Much later, as they lay side by side, their breaths slowing, Arlecchino managed to regain her composure. “We do have work to do, you know,” she said, her voice still slightly breathless. “The Hearth won’t run itself.”
Aether glanced at the time, a roguish smile on his face. “There’s still plenty of time, Perry.”
Arlecchino’s gaze softened, a rare, tender vulnerability slipping through. The realisation that Aether genuinely cherished her — every part of her, from her strength to her doubts — was almost overwhelming.
She pulled him close again, her fingers threading through his hair, a playful yet loving glint in her eyes. “I love you more, Butterfly. And I think I need to prove it.”
This time, it was Arlecchino who took control, guiding their morning into another sweet, impassioned entanglement — a celebration of love, mischief, and the bond they had forged.
Aether and Arlecchino finally emerged from their room, much later than usual. Aether looked as lively as ever, a spring in his step and a soft, lingering smile on his face. Arlecchino, however, was the surprising one. The "Father" of the Hearth, known for her composed and stoic demeanour, carried an unmistakable aura of contentment — a subtle but genuine warmth that rarely surfaced.
As they stepped into the dining hall, the children’s chatter quieted down, replaced by curious glances and whispers. Paimon, perched by the breakfast table with a plate full of freshly baked pastries, immediately floated over.
"Hey! You two finally woke up!" Paimon exclaimed. "What took you guys so long? Paimon's been starving forever!"
Aether chuckled softly, scratching the back of his head. "Sorry, Paimon. I guess we lost track of time."
One of the older children, bolder than the rest, smirked. "Father looks really happy today. Did something good happen?"
Another younger child chimed in, their voice innocent but inquisitive. "Yeah! Did Traveler tell you a funny story, Father?"
Arlecchino felt the weight of their curious stares and glanced at Aether, who was trying — and failing — to suppress his amusement. The truth of their morning lingered just beneath the surface, hidden from innocent eyes but all too evident in their relaxed expressions.
"It was... an interesting morning," Arlecchino replied smoothly, her usual firm tone softened by a hint of amusement. "And yes, the Traveler does have a way with stories."
The children laughed, still blissfully unaware, but the air was charged with a new energy. Arlecchino realized that this little secret of theirs — the lingering warmth of their morning — felt like a thrilling, delicate thread of a shared world that belonged to only her and Aether. Her mind wandered for a moment. She was no stranger to complex political games, battles of wits, and lethal negotiations. But this? The playful thrill of a hidden romance — this was something entirely new. Something precious. She wondered briefly if she should consult Yae Miko when they next crossed paths. The kitsune dealt with enough romance novels and sentimental nonsense at the Yae Publishing House — surely she could offer a few insights.
Aether’s voice pulled her back to the present. "Come on, let’s eat before Paimon eats everything."
"Hey!" Paimon protested, cheeks already stuffed with food. "Paimon's just taste-testing!"
The children laughed, their suspicions forgotten, and the warmth of breakfast enveloped them. Arlecchino took a seat beside Aether, her mind still quietly savouring the morning’s mischief. She felt a renewed eagerness to explore this side of her heart — a side of love that was not just loyalty or duty, but something tender, mischievous, and joyfully hers.
After breakfast, the children scattered like birds freed from a net. Some delved into their studies, bent over scrolls and notes. Others took to the training grounds, sparring with practice weapons. The more curious and ambitious ones trailed after Lyney, Lynette, and Freminet, hoping to glean insight from the older members. The Hearth was alive with the gentle hum of purpose, a place where everyone had a place, a role, and a future.
Aether watched them with a sense of pride, the warmth from breakfast still lingering. It was then that Arlecchino's voice broke through his thoughts. "Do you have any plans to visit Inazuma soon?"
Aether blinked, taken aback. Arlecchino rarely asked about his plans directly. Usually, he informed her of his travels, and she adjusted her schedule if she wished to join. She always seemed so composed, a master planner who preferred to work from the shadows. But now, she had voiced her own interest — a hint of her desires rather than the tactical, calculated decisions of the past.
He found himself smiling softly, his heart a little lighter. It was such a small thing — a question — but it spoke volumes. Arlecchino wasn't just watching from a distance; she was stepping forward. Sharing a part of herself.
"Traveler? Hello? Are you there?" Paimon's voice broke in, her tiny hands waving in front of his face.
"Huh? Oh, sorry!" Aether chuckled, still a bit dazed by his thoughts. "I do go to Inazuma sometimes, mostly for commissions. Nothing really planned right now."
He glanced at Arlecchino, her expression steady yet attentive. "But I can reach out to our friends there, see if anything's happening. Maybe there's an event or something we can help with."
Paimon perked up, a glimmer of excitement in her eyes. "Oh! Paimon misses the food there! Maybe Thoma can make us some more hotpot! Or we can get Ayaka to take us to Komore Teahouse again!"
Aether laughed at Paimon's enthusiasm, but his eyes stayed on Arlecchino, wondering what drew her thoughts to Inazuma. Was it the culture, the friends they had there, or something else entirely? Whatever it was, the fact that she asked — that she allowed herself to express interest so openly — felt significant.
Arlecchino met his gaze, her usual calm exterior betraying the slightest hint of curiosity. The edges of her lips curved subtly, and Aether knew, in that small gesture, that his answer had satisfied her — for now. As their conversation drifted from Inazuma, Aether brought up a new idea. "I was thinking... maybe we could invite Furina to visit the Hearth. She could put on a little performance, share some of that theatrical charm with the kids. They'd love it."
Paimon's eyes sparkled. "Oh! That would be so fun! A real performance by the ex-Hydro Archon herself — the kids would be thrilled!"
Arlecchino considered it for a moment, her gaze thoughtful. "Furina does love the stage... and the children could use some lively entertainment."
Aether smirked playfully. "Yeah. Besides, it’ll be good for Furina to see the Hearth for herself. She's always been curious about the place."
Arlecchino tilted her head slightly, narrowing her eyes. "You think she'd even agree to visit? Last time I saw her... well, I wasn't exactly extending an invitation."
Paimon snorted. "Yeah, you ambushed her like an assassin!"
Aether laughed, but there was a glimmer of mischief in his eyes. "Actually, that gives me an idea."
Arlecchino raised a brow. "Oh?"
Aether leaned in, his voice lowering conspiratorially. "Here's what we'll do. Paimon and I will go meet Furina, set up the invitation. Meanwhile, Perry — you'll wait in the shadows. Just when Furina thinks it's a casual chat, you 'ambush' her again."
Arlecchino blinked, her usual unreadable expression slipping slightly. "Ambush her... again?"
"Not with a scythe, of course!" Paimon chimed in. "With cakes! Or macarons! Just a little surprise to mess with her!"
Aether's grin widened. "And then I'll explain that you're not her enemy anymore. That you're with me — my partner."
Arlecchino’s eyes flickered to the ring on her finger, the simple, silver band with the 'A' engraved. She considered the plan. On one hand, it seemed a bit cruel to tease the ever-dramatic Furina. On the other...
Aether wanted to show her off. He wanted to declare their relationship openly, to make it clear that they were together. It was a childish show of affection — but it was genuine. The idea of publicly showing her bond with Aether made her heart tighten pleasantly. And, well... she could show off her ring a little more. That thought warmed her.
"Alright," Arlecchino finally agreed, her lips curving into a sly smile. "But if Furina collapses from fright, you'll have to take responsibility."
Aether laughed, wrapping an arm around her. "Deal. It'll be fine. If anything, it'll be a good reminder that the Hearth has new alliances now."
Paimon giggled excitedly, already anticipating the chaos. "This is going to be so much fun!"
With a plan in mind, the trio set off, ready to give Furina a surprise she wouldn't forget.
Aether and Paimon approached Furina’s modest house in Fontaine, a charming little cottage nestled by a corner. The simplicity of her new home contrasted starkly with the grandeur she once commanded as the Hydro Archon. Yet, Furina had adapted — somewhat — to this quieter life. She had built a small bubble of security around herself, and Aether was one of the few she still trusted enough to let inside.
When Furina opened the door, her eyes lit up. "Traveler! Paimon! What brings you here today?"
Paimon floated eagerly. "Well, we thought we'd take you out for some tea and cake! A little treat for our favourite Drama Queen!"
Furina’s smile faltered, her usual haughty expression replaced with something more genuine. "Hmph. Well, if you insist... I suppose I could spare a little time."
Aether chuckled, gesturing for her to join them. They strolled to a nearby cafe, a cozy spot adorned with floral decor and the aroma of freshly baked pastries. Furina was easing into the atmosphere, occasionally throwing a dramatic, faux-snooty comment — typical of her nature. Just as they approached the cafe’s outdoor seating, Aether slowed his steps, seemingly searching his pockets for something. Furina's attention briefly wavered, and that was the moment.
From the nearby bushes, Arlecchino emerged in a flash, her presence quiet yet commanding. She didn't say a word — just stood behind Aether, her eyes fixed on Furina with a cool, unreadable gaze.
Furina's face went pale, her throat tightening in fear. For a moment, no one moved. Then, in a panicked blur, she lunged forward, clutching Aether tightly, hiding her face against his chest.
Paimon burst out laughing, her giggles loud and unrestrained. "Oh, wow! Furina, are you that scared of Arlecchino? Paimon didn't know you were such a scaredy-cat!"
Furina mumbled something incoherent, still clutching Aether. Her voice trembled slightly, and her grip on his jacket was iron-tight.
Aether's hand gently patted her back. "Hey, hey, it's alright, Furina. It's just a little prank. I promise there's no danger."
Furina peeked out from behind him, her eyes sharp and wary. "A prank? From her? You expect me to believe that? She’s probably brainwashed you!"
Aether chuckled softly. "Come on, look." He reached out and took Arlecchino’s hand, showing the silver ring that gleamed softly on her finger. "Arlecchino’s not my enemy. She’s my partner."
Furina’s eyes widened, disbelief plain on her face. Before she could respond, Aether, in a moment of pure mischief, leaned over and lightly bit Arlecchino’s gloved hand — right on the knuckles.
Arlecchino stiffened, eyes widening slightly. Paimon's jaw dropped. Furina's mouth opened, an unreadable noise escaping her lips. Even Aether's smirk faltered for a moment as if realising the gravity of his spontaneous mischief.
"Traveler! W-What was that?!" Paimon squeaked, half-horrified, half-amused.
Aether laughed, releasing Arlecchino’s hand. "Just a little proof that I’m still me, Furina. No brainwashing, I promise."
Furina blinked slowly, watching as Arlecchino — the feared Knave — simply stared at Aether, a mix of amusement and disbelief dancing in her crimson eyes. When she didn’t retaliate — no scythe, no glare, no cold words — Furina finally began to understand.
Arlecchino offered a measured, genuine apology. "My actions back then were part of my duty as a Harbinger. I no longer serve the Fatui. And... I’m sorry for the way I acted before."
Furina, still apprehensive, glanced between Aether and Arlecchino. "You’re... not going to slice me in half?"
Arlecchino, ever stoic, simply placed a box of delicate cakes and macarons on the table. "If you want to cut them in half, be my guest."
Aether chuckled, nudging the box toward Furina. "They’re for you. I will taste them myself — see?" He took a bite of a macaron to demonstrate. "Not poisoned. Promise."
Furina, eyeing the treats with lingering suspicion, finally took the one Aether had bitten into. After a hesitant nibble, her expression softened. The tension in her shoulders loosened. The trio conversed for a while — Arlecchino's responses cautious yet genuine. Furina's scepticism didn’t fully dissipate, but the animosity was gone, replaced by a tentative understanding. Aether extended an invitation to the Hearth, suggesting Furina come by and share her love of theatrics with the children. Furina promised to think about it.
As they parted ways, the trio left Furina with the food, the invitation, and a lot to think about. Walking away from her home, Paimon couldn’t hold it any longer.
"Hey, Traveler! That part where you bit Miss Arle’s hand — that was NOT part of the plan!"
Arlecchino smirked, glancing at Aether. "I have to agree. Going off script, were we?"
Aether grinned, utterly unapologetic. "Hey, I deserved a little fun, didn’t I? Consider it my payment for planning the whole prank."
Arlecchino leaned in, her voice a teasing purr. "Careful, Butterfly. There’s a fine line between playful mischief and a challenge."
Aether, smug and pleased with himself, shot her a wink. "I'll take my chances."
Paimon rolled her eyes, muttering something about “lovestruck idiots,” and the trio made their way back to the Hearth, mischief accomplished.