(I was working on this from late at night to the early hours of the morning, there are probably a ton of mistakes)
(Either way, I hope you enjoy)
↢3rd Person POV↣
Y/n had seen and heard a lot of crap throughout her life, each scenario somehow even worse than the last.
But this???
She was so angry, she let Aether hold her back so she couldn't lunge at the man she'd expected a friendly conversation from. The time Aether spent keeping her in place would be used to devise a master plan.
"HUH???" she demanded, itching to whip out her axe and shank this idiot.
She was behind the blond, him having blocked her path with his arm so she couldn't hurt the man who had ticked her off.
Y/n could easily just plow through him but she didn't. She doesn't wanna hurt him.
"Get down on our knees, huh?" she said in a tight voice, digging her nails into her palms, "Give me two minutes and you'll be the one on your knees begging for forgiveness-"
Aether gave y/n a startled look to which she innocently blinked back with a, "Dala?"
"Hmph! In former times when people knew their place and respected traditions, such conduct was only basic courtesy when greeting a nobleman!" the man continued, his sharp voice only fueling the flames of rage in y/n, "And neglecting your manners would result in a swift whipping!"
Both Paimon and Aether cringed away at that while y/n paused to think back to one time she had happily shown Childe her improved control over her element.
At that moment, an evil grin settled onto her face. She was up to something.
"But look at the world now, rules have been thrown to the wayside and manners forgotten." the man, Schubert, sighed, "Ugh, I cannot bear to see such degradation."
"It's no wonder the aristocracy fell." Aether muttered and jumped a little when the strange man raised his voice.
"What did you say? You dare question the dignity of the nobility?" Schubert demanded and y/n audibly growled when he pointed a finger at Aether, "I'll have you know that though the Lawrence Clan is in decline, myself and others of noble blood are looking for a chance to restore our rightful honor!"
'I could bite his finger-' y/n thought, 'Or I could break it. Ooo, I could definitely break it...!'
"Just look around, the people are unruly and undisciplined!" the man continued, "I, however, strive to retain the elegance and etiquette of the nobility. After all, we are of a completely different breed by birth."
Y/n's evil grin somehow became even more menacing than before, "Is that so?"
"I haven't even said anything yet..." Aether murmured, dome with this is already.
"Save your words, I find your manners and bearing repulsive. I have nothing to discuss with the likes of you." Schubert scoffed as he turned away and crossed his arms, "Besides, I am in no way obligated to instruct commoners on basic courtesies."
Y/n relaxed a little when the man turned and vegan walking away, "Now, I have more pressing matters to attend to. I'll take my leave."
The trio was quiet for a moment before y/n spoke up with a, "Can I go kill him."
"No!" Aether said quickly.
"So this is what Master Jean meant by difficult to get along with?" Paimom hummed then sighed, "Let's head back and talk things over with her."
Y/n perked up, "Will Amber be there?"
"Probably." Aether said with shrug, a little disappointed that y/n showed more excitement when around Amber than she did when she was with him, "Wanna come with us?"
"Yep! I'd love to!" y/n exclaimed then began dragging Aether along my the hand, "C'mon! Let's go, Blondie!"
They made it to Headquarters quickly, y/n forcing them to pick up the pace due to her eagerness to see Amber.
"Well, if it isn't the Honorary Knight and Y/n! I'm just on my way out to gather some intel. I didn't expect to run into you here!" Amber greeted with a smile.
Y/n pranced over to Amber and offered him some lamp grass, "A gift for you!"
The Outrider blinked as a blush gathered on her face before she laughed, gratefully accepting the gift, "Thank you, y/n!"
Aether watched the two with a disappointed look on his face and Paimon noticed, grinning and chuckling to herself.
"Huh? Judging by your expression, you must have run into some trouble." Amber commented when she saw Aether's expression.
"Master Jean tasked us with a special assignment, but things seem to have run aground for the moment." Paimon exclaimed.
"It's a long story..." Aether sighed.
"No Need to get down on yourself, sometimes things just don't turn out as planned. Even I can't guarantee useful intel every time I'm dispatched." Amber chirped, "You just have to keep at it and never give up!"
"That's Amber for you." Aether chuckled and y/n nodded happily.
The Outrider laughed, causing y/n's cheeks to heat up. She quickly pulled out her ominous mask to cover her face with, the one Albedo had gifted to her. There was a pretty dark story regarding ad to where the broken masks used to make the ominous mask came from but that's a story for later.
"Hey, why don't you let me try to help? What's the problem?" Amber offered.
"Master Jean asked us to build a connection with someone named Schubert Lawrence." Paimon explained, "But it turns out that he's a peculiar character that doesn't listen to anyone... Especially Paimon.
"Aha, Schubert, I know him!" Amber exclaimed, "Let me guess, he said you didn't have any manners."
"He did! The [haha no] audacity!" y/n exclaimed, voice muffled by her mask, and earned another laugh from Amber.
"Sounds like you're no stranger to his rants." Aether commented.
"Hehehe, I've been on the receiving end of his lectures many a time. The Lawrence clan can be very particular about such things." Amber replied.
"Uh... you mean everyone in the Lawrence Clan is just a big headache?" Paimon inquired then looked to y/n, "Y/n! Use your mitachurl IQ!"
"Hm... Kuzi Unu has shared their knowledge with me, Bellator Minima..." y/n murmured, "Unu says the Lawrence Clan are a bunch of buttfaces so therefore, they are buttfaces!"
Paimon applauded Y/n while Aether and Amber shook their heads.
"As aristocrats, they believe there should be a certain distance between themselves and common folk." Amber explained then sighed heavily, "I understand their thinking, but that's just not how things are anymore. However, there is one exception among the Lawrence Clan. My good buddy — Eula!"
Y/n deadpanned, '...Buddy...?'
"B—Buddy?" Paimon repeated.
"That's right! Not only is she from the Lawrence Clan, but she's also Captain of the Knights of Favonius 4th Company." Amber chirped.
"Jean told us that the Lawrence Clan sees the Knights as enemies. How could a member of the Lawrence Clan join the Knights?" Aether questioned.
Y/n took off her mask, giving Aether an unreadable look, "Just like how me, a mitachurl, can be friends with someone like the ginger."
"You guys are still friends?" Paimon and Aether questioned in usion and y/n tensed.
"I dunno anymore..." she mumbled and covered her face with her mask once more.
"Eula is special! She's not quite like the other members of her clan. She has her own beliefs and it shows." Amber exclaimed, "In other words, she doesn't really adhere to the strict rules and conventions of her family. However, she's still quite knowledgeable about dealing with the Lawrences. I'm sure you'll see what I mean if you meet her."
"Hmm, that's strange. If Eula is a member of the Lawrence Clan, then why would Master Jean choose us for the task?" Paimon questioned, "Couldn't she just ask Eula?"
"Ah, well... It's a little complicated..." Amber began but y/n butt in.
"They think she's a traitor and they don't really like her." y/n explained.
"Huh? How did you know?" Aether asked and y/n shrugged. He could practically see her bitter look despite her wearing a mask..
"All you humans are the same. If your kin does something you don't like, you'll disown them." y/n replied.
"That's a harsh way of putting it but yeah, that pretty much sums it up..." Amber said wearily, "Anyways, she's very easy to get along with. Just explain the situation and I'm sure she'll help you come up with a way to get along with Schubert. In fact, I think she's out in the wilderness on patrol this morning. You should be able to find her around Stormbearer Mountains!"
Paimon perked up,"Thanks, Amber! Alright, you heard her, let's go find Eula!"
"Good luck, you three! I've got my own matters to investigate!" Amber chimed.
Y/n blindly reached for Aether's hand which he took and the girl allowed him to lead her away.
"Who would've guessed the Knights have a member of the Lawrence Clan...well, if you want to learn about the conduct of Lawrence clan, who better to ask than one of their own family members?" Paimon exclaimed, "Or y/n. She seems to know a thing or two about etiquette."
"Huh? I do?" y/n questioned from behind her mask, obviously confused.
"Remember when you fooled that Fatui guy who assumed you were that Lady Eira person?" Paimon pointed out, "You were all like, bow and beg for forgiveness!"
Y/n seemed a little sad now, "I was...?"
"Haha, no you weren't, you just seemed very dignified-" Aether said quickly, giving Paimon a glare who gasped quietly and covered her mouth with a sheepish expression.
~~~ᕕ( ᐛ )ᕗ•°*
Aether had to carry a miserable y/n all the way to Sotembearer Mountains after she completely gave up.
That comment about Childe and her still being friends probably hit her hard. And Paimon wasn't helping.
"Huh, the Fatui? What are they doing here!" Paimon demanded when she spot a couple Fatui members ahead, "Is that why Eula was sent on patrol here?"
"FATUI? WHERE?"
Oop, y/n's back.
Y/n moved her mask so it wasn't covering her face, eyes lighting up when she saw the Fatui members ahead..
"Ugh... Let's fight first and talk later!" Paimon huffed then turned to y/n, "Y/n! You can handle these guys!"
"Tomo! I'm on it!" y/n exclaimed before running at the Fatui Members with a, "Unu dada!"
"Paimon, she's going to hurt herself."
"Hush, she'll be fine."
And Paimon was right! The fight was over just as quickly as it had started, y/n looking very proud.
She turned to look at Aether with bright eyes, "Hehe, I won! Nobody can beat me!"
Aether sighed and shook his head as y/n pranced back over to him, "Idiot..."
"Hah??? What was that?"
"Nothing-"
As y/n was fussing at Aether, trying to get him to tell her what he'd said, a pyroslinger stood at the top of a nearby watchtower, pointing his gun at the h/c haired girl.
Y/n tensed and looked just in time to see the pyro slinger shoot at them.
She wasted no time moving so that she was in front of Aether, ready to take the bullet.
However, the impact never came. Both y/n and Aether curiously looked at the newcomer, a woman with blue hair and a claymore.
Y/n's eyes sparkled, 'Cool...'
She watched in amazement as the woman ran towards the tower, avoiding bullets and making it to the top of the tower within seconds.
Y/n was able to keep up with where she was while Aether had completely lost track of her.
Y/n's eyes only sparkled more as the woman attacked the pyroslinger, eventually managing to land a hit on them and sent them plunging towards the earth below.
'She's super strong...!' y/n thought in amazement as the woman landed gracefully on the ground not too far away from her, Aether and Paimon.
"You don't think twice before reaching for your sword, do you?" the woman said sharply as she approached the trio, "Ugh... do you have any idea how long I've been tracing these targets? And now you get to stake a claim. Hmph, you think you're stronger because you got to them first? Ugh... mark my words, vengeance will be mine!"
Y/n deadpanned, "Suddenly I don't like you. And to think I thought you were cool..."
"Excuse me?"
"You heard me, bi-"
Aether covered y/n's mouth before she could finish her sentence, a nervous look on his face, "Haha, please excuse my friend. I'm sorry but did you say vengeance?"
"That's right. I heard the commotion and came as swiftly as I could, only to find you three already fighting the Fatui." the woman huffed, "Not only that, you were making quick work of them, too! If I didn't make my move, you would have been able to take all the credit!"
Y/n moved Aether's hand from her mouth, an irritated look on her face.
It was a moment before the woman sighed, "Still, I'm glad you're unscathed. Confronting that number of Fatui at once can be dangerous."
"I dont fear death." y/n said with a shrug, "It isn't as bad as you think."
The woman gave y/n a quizzical look and Paimon laughed nervously.
"Haha, she's been through a lot..." Paimon said sheepishly, "Uhm... Paimon is sorry though. Paimon doesn't understand what you mean... but thanks for your concern."
"Concern? Why would I be concerned for the safety of my arch-enemies?" the woman scoffed and y/n tensed.
"BI-"
Aether shoved a hash brown in y/n's mouth this time. It'd keep her busy for at least another two or three minutes.
"Arch-enemies? Wait a minute! You were saying how glad you were that we were unscathed a second ago!" Paimon protested.
"By which I meant, if you were injured, I'd have to escort two strangers guilty of stealing my targets all the way back to Mondstadt..." the woman explained, "Which would mean you'd caused me even more trouble... my vengeance would be swifter still!"
"Huh? So that's how you see all this?" Paimon demanded.
"So you must be Eula." Aether concluded, being sure to keep an eye on y/n who looked like she was halfway done with the hash brown.
"Yes, that's me." Eula replied.
"Paimon thinks she's pretty strange... Although, at least we can communicate with her." Paimon murmured.
"You dare to call someone you've just met strange? Forget the aristocracy, that's rude even by normal standards!" Eula snapped, "Speaking of which... how do you know my name?"
"My girlfriend told us." y/n said after she finished her hash brown.
"GILRFRIEND!?" Paimon and Aether shouted in usion, earning a confused look from y/n.
"Yeah. Thats what Osiris says she is. He says a girl you're close with is your girlfriend and a guy you're close with is your boyfriend!" y/n explained, "So... I have a lot of boyfriends and girlfriends. You included of course, Aether."
Aether's face was red, 'Even if she doesn't really know what it means, it still makes me feel strange when she calls me her boyfriend...'
Y/n turned back to Eula, 'This is the Honorary Knight of the Knights of Favonius. And speaking of rude, we are trying to investigate an aristocrat names Schubert Lawrence."
"He's so obsessed with etiquette that he's not even willing to speak with us!" Paimon piped in as y/n curiously poked a blushing Aether's face.
"I understand now. That's my uncle alright." Eula laughed, "But why do you mean to investigate him?"
"He may be secretly involved with the Fatui." y/n answered for Aether whi was currently not functioning
"I see..." Eula murmured, "You have some nerve defaming a family member right in front of me. I will have vengeance for this, too!"
"No, no, no! This is a assignment from Master Jean! It's just an investigation, that's all!" Paimom protested.
"Aren't you curious about your uncle?" y/n inquired, genuinely wanting to know.
'To the everyday citizens of Mondstadt, everyone in the Lawrence clan is scum. It's natural for rumors and unwarranted gossip to lead to such suspicion." Eula replied simply.
"Hard to avoid such a reputation when you're known as the ruthless rulers of Old Mondstadt..." Paimon commented.
"So that's what you think of me? Yet another transgression to avenge..."
"But didn't you say it first!?" Paimon protested.
"Hahaha, curious... we've only just met, and you've already given me three causes for vengeance. It's been a while since I've encountered anyone as interesting as you." Eula hummed.
"Why do you seem so happy about it?" Aether inquired, finally snapping out of his blushy daze
"I assume you need me to teach you the conduct of the Lawrence clan. Only then will you finally be able to communicate with my uncle, correct?" Eula asked.
"Yep, Amber told us to come and talk to you." Y/n replied with a nod.
"Well then, let's begin your training immediately. It'll be easier to train when we're back in Mondstadt, we'll require other people." Eula announced.
"You're not planning to take revenge at an opportune moment, are you?" Aether asked warily.
"We can put that aside for now. Besides, if it's the Acting Grand Master's assignment, and Amber's the one who recommended me, I should comply." Eula hummed.
Y/n frowned, "Hm..."
"Uh... Paimon's confused..." Paimon murmured, "This girl's all vengeance this and revenge that, but she doesn't seem the least bit angry. Still, Paimon has met bigger weirdos before..."
"Like y/n?" Aether suggested.
"Hey!"
"Yeah! Like y/n!"
"UH, I'M RIGHT OVER HERE Y'KNOW?"
~~~ᕕ( ᐛ )ᕗ•°*
"Ah, you've finally arrived. There's no time to spare, so we'll begin with our first lesson..." Eula said after the trio found her in the plaza in Mondstadt.
"Wait, hold on! There's something we need to clear up first, otherwise it'll keep bugging us!" Paimon began.
"You won't really take revenge, will you?" Aether questioned.
Eula sighed, "So that's still on your mind, huh? Maybe you're the ones who can't let things go. Don't worry, there's a time and place for exacting vengeance. Besides, I'm not in the mood for any right now, best save it for later."
"Uh... you need to be in the right mood for vengeance?" Paimon questioned.
"Vengeance requires a lot of time and thinking!" y/n pointed out and Aether deadpanned.
"Y/n, it only took you a minute and a half to kick Childe in the crotch after he threw you." Paimon pointed out.
Y/n's mood dampened, "The ginger..."
"Look what you did!" Aether snapped.
"I already have a long list of vengeance to exact. Even if I wanted to begin now, I'd have to start in the right order." Eula explained, "Who knows how long it will be before I get to you."
"Hehe, well... if you have so much too take care of, wouldn't it just be easier to give us a clean slate?" Paimon asked.
"Absolutely, not! Stealing my targets, calling me a ruthless ruler, and suspecting my uncle... all worthy of vengeance in my eyes!" Eula snapped.
"She's definitely counting..." Aether said wearily then glared at Paimon who chuckled nervously.
"You needn't worry, at least, not whilst we're investigating this matter. I'm sure you're familiar with the phrase: A man of moral integrity fears no slanderous attack." Eula hummed, "If Uncle Schubert didn't commit any wrongdoing, then any such investigation will prove fruitless. But if he did commit a wrongful act, then he should bear the full punishment. I'm sure you understand."
Aether and y/n, despite her miserable state, nodded their agreement.
"I think I'm starting to see what you mean." Aether said.
"Good. Now, there are two key points that aristocrats attach great importance to — your manner of speech, and your bearing." Eula began "Let's begin with your manner of speech. Aristocrats have a very unique way of carrying conversation, even with mundane daily topics."
"Oh! Paimon's already learned some unique conversation!" Paimom exclaimed then said in a poorly imitated version of Eula's voice, "Mark my words, vengeance will be mine!"
Eula didn't look impressed and Aether simply facepalmed himself with a sigh.
"Not even close. And besides, it sounds strange." Eula said flatly.
"Hey! Paimon learned it from you! And didn't you say not to call others strange!?" Paimon demanded, "It seems you don't respect the rules of your own clan!"
"No, I've no need to trouble myself with such frivolous formalities. Here, allow me to demonstrate." Eula hummed, "For example, when greeting a friend, you could say: As the morning dew greets the coming dawn, so do I greet you, my dear friend."
"Uh... As the morning dew does what now?" Paimon inquired, puzzled.
"However, such a phrase may only be used during the morning hours. Also, the party with whom you're speaking must be of approximately the same status as you." Eula continued, "Morning dew is not uncommon, so it expresses that friendship should not be measured by value, yet also suggests that friendship between aristocrats is pure like water."
"Seems like a lot of work just to greet a good friend." Aether commented.
"No no no, you must be prudent with your words. Calling someone a good friend could easily offend them." Eula said and y/n frowned.
"Uh... But didn't you just say my dear friend in your example? Paimon's confused..."
"Yes, I did. But you must know, in the Lawrence family, "dear friend" is a set phrase that can only be used towards certain friends with whom one is acquainted, but not particularly close." Eula explained, "It sounds much more pleasant to call an acquaintance a dear friend. So another thing to remember — aristocrats are concerned with face and being polite. However, if you were to use dear friend to address an intimate friend, the recipient would think that you were deliberately trying to estrange them."
"Intimate friend...?" y/n murmured.
"You mean you always have to talk this way!?" Aether demanded, shocked.
"This is only the first step in making a greeting. After addressing one another, you then exchange courtesies." Eula informed him.
"Wait, wait! This is all too abstract..." Paimon protested, "Um... Perhaps it would be better if you... gave some real-life demonstrations."
"Ah...Very well. Come with me, we'll choose some bystanders to converse with." Eula announced.
They went to Norman first, y/n, Aether and Paimon watching as Eula approached him.
"Oh... you're Eula of the Lawrence Clan, right?" the guy inquired then murmured, "This can't be good..."
"Ahem! You there, lowly laborer. You stand in the presence of a member of the illustrious Lawrence Clan. I have words for you." Eula began and y/n snapped out of her pitiful state to stare in shock, "Please acknowledge the glory bestowed upon thee by the nobility, uhh... what comes next...? Oh, right! By solemnly kneeling to the ground with upmost sincerity."
"Huh? I can't make heads or tails of anything you're saying!" the guy protested.
"Hold on, what did they always teach me...?" Eula muttered to herself, "Whenever a dispute arises, protection of your family's prestige and dignity always takes precedence. Got it. Ahem! As a lowly commoner, you shall maintain absolute reverence when speaking with those under which you graciously toil. How dare you speak in such a manner?"
"Ugh, is everyone from the Lawrence Clan so strange?" Norman scoffed, "The days of the Lawrence Clan's tyranny have long passed. I don't care what you're trying to do, just beat it."
"I think you misunderstood her..." Aether began, steppimg forward.
"Like I said, I don't care what you're doing. I have nothing to say to any member of the Lawrence Clan." Norman snapped, "And here's a word of advice... I wouldn't be caught dead walking too closely with any one of their kind in Mondstadt. If that's all, I'll be going. I'm afraid I won't be able to control myself if we talk any longer."
"Hey — hey! Don't leave! Halt!" Eula shouted as the guy walked away but it made no difference, "Ugh, mark my words, vengeance will be mine!"
"Wow... the Lawrence name really does carry a terrible reputation." Paimon murmured.
'I... think I understand.' y/n realized..
"Never mind him, I could have predicted as much. Let's find someone else." Eula scoffed.
Y/n simply followed as they moved on to the next person. Someone named Leno or something like that.
(Why tf-)
"Ahem! You there, lowly toiler. You stand in the presence of a member of the illustrious Lawrence Clan. I have words for you. Please acknowledge the glory bestowed upon thee by the nobility, and solemnly kneel to the ground with upmost sincerity." Eula began.
Leno was quiet and y/n sweatdropped.
"Huh? Why don't you respond? According to the custom, I must wait until you kneel completely before I can say the next words." Eula conrinued then blinked, "Ah, right! I musn't look at you too long, or I'll be drawing more attention to our differences in status... Oh dear, I've already stared at you for quite a while."
Leno remained silent.
"Fine, you may spare yourself the formality of kneeling, as it may be a little inconvenient. I shall continue... Oh, wait, I think there's a line for people with rude attitudes in this situation..." Eula murmured, about to start again.
"Hey! Stop bothering me, or else I might say something you wouldn't like to hear!" Leno snapped, "Then again, I've got no words for anyone from the Lawrence Clan!"
"Again? What's with this attitude? That escalated fast. Maybe we should stop for now." Paimon suggested.
"Yes, I don't think his attitude will change. If I keep grandstanding like this, the outcome won't be good. Let's try to find someone else to talk to." Eula agreed then looked back at Leno, "Hmph! I'll remember your unwillingness to comply! Mark my words, vengeance will be mine!"
As Eula, Aether and Paimon headed elsewhere, y/n looked back to Leno with a quiet, "What was that about?"
"Listen, I have no idea what she's trying to do... but trust me, you three should just keep away from her." he told her.
Y/n narrowed her eyes, her expression darkening, "Biadam, ya. Suck a dick."
"W-What!? What was that for?" he demanded as y/n began walking after the others, "Hey! You! Come back here!"
Y/n ignored him, catching up with Aether, Paimon and Eula. Eula had approached a guy by the giant statue.
"You there, lowly worker, I—" Eula began but was interrupted immediately.
"Yeah, I've already heard it all before. Look, just spare me the time, our answer is always the same. We've got nothing to say to the likes of you!" Randall snapped, "I mean, seriously, can't you just take a hint?"
"Please calm down, we don't want to cause any trouble!" Paimon protested.
The guy sighed, "I know she's a Knight of Favonius, and that the Knights wouldn't misplace their trust, but the name Lawrence carries too much weight with it. Even to this very day, the descendants of the Lawrence Clan are still scheming to reclaim Mondstadt and reinstate their aristocratic rule. And if that wasn't enough, here you are purposefully using their awkward way of speaking just to put on an act? Don't you care for the feelings of us ordinary folk?"
"You have a point. But mark my words, this transgression will not go unnoticed!" Eula huffed.
"H—Huh? You wanna fight? Listen here, I might be no match for you, but I'll be sure to lodge a complaint with the Knights of Favonius!" Randall said angrily but stopped when a hand rssted on his shoulder.
He looked back to see y/n with an ominous smile on her ususually scowling face.
"I'll break your legs before you can even blink." she said simply.
The guy squeaked quietly and Aether quickly interjected, "Maybe everyone should just take a step back."
"I'm sorry but... I want her to understand that I'm serious!" Randall protested then glared at Eula, "Listen here, if you don't want things to get more unpleasant, then you'd better just stop."
"Forget it, there's no point in quarreling any further. Let's go." Eula scoffed.
Y/n gave Randall one last ominous look before following Aether, Paimon and Eula.
"It's alright, this happens quite often. Let's find someone else to talk to." Eula was saying.
"Uh, Paimon thinks we've seen enough now. Let's just stop." Paimon suggested, "Actually, Paimon thinks we should apologize for asking you to demonstrate for us. We had no idea the feelings between the Lawrence Clan and the people of Mondstadt were so bitter.
"What can we do? The Lawrence name is already a dirty word among every household in Mondstadt. Even three-year-olds know the story." Eula laughed bitterly, "I see this kind of attitude all the time."
"And somehow you still manage to brush it off with a laugh?" Aether questioned.
"Don't worry, with me being a Knight of Favonius, they're usually willing to speak a few words with me." Eula replied, "Perhaps my aristocratic manner of speech provoked them today. Believe me, it's not a big issue."
"It really seems like it is." y/n pointed out, "I think it's not fair that they get mad at you specifically. Even if your manner of speaking is insulting, your family's mistakes shouldn't chahge how others look at you."
Paimon looked at y/n in shock, "That's the smartest thing you've said in a week."
Y/n glowered at the pixie, "Shut. Up."
"That's the way things are. Perhaps it's just fate for those who've made mistakes. Accepting punishment is only fair, right?" Eula sighed heavily, "But when your family has committed atrocities, I'm afraid there's no easy path to reconciliation. As memories are carried in the city breeze, the faults of such grievances are passed on from one generation to the next. It is now my turn to bear this burden. At least I have a means of living a relatively normal life compared to the elders of my family. I have nothing to be discontented about."
" So you knew all along that we'd encounter these kinds of problems?" Aether asked.
"Yeah, why were you so willing to try and demonstrate for us?" Paimon questioned.
"Oh, that reminds me... that last person will not escape my vengeance either..." Eula murmured then sighed, "Let's leave it at that. Just think of it as something I like to do. But unfortunately, you probably didn't learn much from those conversations. It seems we have no other choice but to find more people to talk to."
"Uh, n—no need! Besides, Aether is pretty sharp, and nothing gets in our way on an adventure. Paimon thinks we've got the gist of it now." Paimon said quickly, "Right? RIGHT!?"
"Uh... Yeah, I think I've got it." Aether said quickly and y/n shook her head.
"We'll just have to roll with it for now. Let's just keep Eula from getting anyone else riled up." Paimon whispered.
"Well then, I'm glad you learned something. You're already halfway toward mastering aristocratic conduct." Eula said with a nod, "A proper manner of speech is more aesthetic than anything else — it stems from their taste for refinement. But we must also practice your bearing.I have a very effective way of training for this. Come with me to Dragonspine."
Y/n's eyes grew bright, "Oh hell yeah!!!"
~~~ᕕ( ᐛ )ᕗ•°*
"It's s—so c—cold... does aristocrat training really need to be done here?" Paimon questioned, shivering violently.
"If you wish to truly achieve the dignified conduct of an aristocrat, you must learn to remain composed and elegant even amidst harsh conditions-" Eula began.
"Y/N, NO, PUT YOUR CLOTHES BACK ON!" Aether protested, face red as y/n threw off her cloak and jumped in a pile of snow.
"Ahhh, home sweet home...!" y/n murmured, a content look on her face as Aether frantically tried to convince her to put her stuff back on.
It took a moment but eventually y/n got out of the snow. Her chest was covered with bandages and she did wear some pants she may or may not have stolen from Bennett.
"Ahem, for example, you can see that part of the path up ahead is quite difficult to traverse." Eula continued, "But a well-trained aristocrat would not only effortlessly proceed forward, but do so without a stain on their garment and their elegance fully intact."
"Paimon thinks we've left the realm of aristocrats and entered the realm of adventuring." Paimon hummed, "Compared to what we've already seen, this should be a piece of cake."
"Yeah, I'm used to this kind of challenge." Aether agreed.
Y/n beamed, "I've lived here my entire life! Thisll be super easy!"
"Uh-huh, this is where you can finally apply some of your adventuring knowledge." Paimon exclaimed.
"Haha, you look pretty confident this time." Eula chuckled, "Alright, let's get started. Remember, you must be graceful and elegant. Don't get knocked or launched into the air, that would be most unsightly."
"Come with me, I can help with the hilichurls." y/n said with a smile, offering her hand to Aether.
He stated for a moment, most short-circuiring but held her hand and allowed her to guide him up the path.
She greeted hilichurls as they went and politely as them to handle the slimes for her.
They had to avoid the Abyss mages completely but in the end, they made it.
"Not bad. A lot better than I had anticipated, at least." Eula said when they arrived.
"Paimon almost didn't make it through!" Paimon said as she tried to catch her breath, "Um... so... are we acristocrats now?"
"Don't flatter yourselves. We've only just begun." Eula answered and y/n looked curious when both Paimon and Aether sighed heavily, "This scenario was relatively simple. In the face of a real battle, one would seldom have a chance to stop and evaluate the situation. There's a Ley Line Monolith just up ahead that will attract nearby monsters. True elegance is the ability to calmly yet swiftly make decisions in the heat of the battle."
"Is this how you normally train?" Aether asked then sighed, "No wonder you are so skilled..."
"My family set only the highest expectations for me, even as a child." Eula replied, "Let's proceed, shall we?"
Y/n happy followed while Aether and Paimon were a bit slower as they approached the Ley Line Monolith.
"This is the Ley Line Monolith. Go ahead, activate it." Eula told them then quickly added, "But be careful not to get launched into the air or frozen while fighting. That would be most unsightly."
"Ah! Here!" Y/n wrapped her cloak around Aether, "You sit here, I'll take care of this."
"But-" Aether began.
Y/n smiled warmly, "Nye, it's fine. You deserve the rest. You've done a lot today."
Aether's face grew warm again, 'The amounr of control this girl has over my emotions is insane...'
As usual, y/n didn't seem to struggle with the challenge. Like-- at all.
She would pause to happily greet hilichurls and hurriedly send them on their way by offering offering food later.
She was done in less than three minutes.
"Well done. Your performance was most impressive." Eula complimented when y/n returned, twirling her axe and watching it disappear.
Y/n beamed, "Headpats, please!"
Eula paused, "Pardon me...?"
"Ah, she wants you go pat her head!" Paimon exclaimed, "She really likes affection."
Eula hesitated then awkwardly pat y/n on the head, "Erm... excellent work..."
Y/n chuckled, "Close enough."
Euoa cleared her throat, "Given such an outstanding performance, it seems there is little left for me to teach you."
"Like Paimon said, adventuring is our specialty!" Paimon chirped, "Hehe... so that's it for our training, right? Then let's get out of Dragonspine before Paimon turns into a popsicle!"
"Hold on. I was commending Y/n and Aether's performance just now. You, on the other hand, seem to have made no progress at all!" Eula interjected and y/n wheezed.
"What? You mean, Paimon was also part of the training!?" Paimon demanded.
"Yes, of course. You were frantically flying and dashing about throughout the entire thing. Not an elegant sight at all." Eula replied with a shake of her head, "Did you even listen to anything I was trying to teach you?"
"Maybe that's just Paimon's style?" Y/n suggested with a shrug.
"Hey, that's not true! Paimon was just focusing on you the whole time!" Paimon snapped.
"Hehe, the Emergency Food's form of elegance and grace-" Aether snickered, "OW!"
Y/n had punched him in the gut.
"Paimon is not emergency food!" she snapped, catching Aether in a headlock, "Apologize!"
"Whatever the reason, not heeding my instructions... a cause for vengeance, perhaps..." Eula murmured then sighed for like the fiftieth time that day, "Now, drink this."
"Huh? What is it?" Paimon asked curiously then gasped, "Are you trying to poison Paimon!?"
"Certainly not. It's warm milk. Didn't you say you were freezing? Drink it and it'll help warm you up." Eula ordered.
"Oh... uh... thank you! Um, are you... still planning on the whole vengeance thing?" Paimon asked sheepishly.
"If I wasn't, then why would I care about you being cold? If you turned into a Paimon popsicle, that would ruin my plans for vengeance now, wouldn't it..." Eula scoffed rhen added quietly, "So, dear friend... don't die on me out here."
"Ahh! Paimon knew something was off! Thank you for looking after Paimon!" Paimon exclaimed.
"All in the name of vengeance, no need to thank me." Eula replied simply.
"You're... strange." Aether chuckled.
"Hehe, vengeance should know no bounds, you know..." Eula said with a ghost of a smile, "Now then, given that your training is complete, it's time we return to Mondstadt. Our last step will be preparing a cordial gift to present to my uncle when you meet him. I already have something in mind. Let's pay Sara a visit at Good Hunter."
~~~ᕕ( ᐛ )ᕗ•°*
"Amberrr!" y/n exclaimed, running ahead.
They'd left Dragonspine and had returned to Mondstadt. Y/n had spotted Amber first and her eyes lit up.
"Oh, y/n!" Amber chirped, "And Eula! I see you've met the Honorary Knight!"
Y/n embraced Amber who hugged her back, laughing as y/n hurriedly ranked about how she was a noble now..
"We meet again, Amber! Seems we're just bound to run into you these days." Paimon exclaimed.
"Well, I just got back and was thinking about grabbing a bite at Good Hunter. But now that you're here, why don't we all eat together?" Amber suggested.
Y/n looked to Eula for permission, eyes round and sparkling, "Can we...?"
Eula flinched a little, her cheeks growing slightly pink at the sight of y/n looking at her with such joy.
"Ahem... very well. It's been some time since we've last shared a meal together." Eula hummed, "Come, take a seat. We can discuss my uncle's gift while we eat."
Everyone sat down together, y/n sitting between Eula and Aether while Amber sat across from the trio.
Paimon washed like a stuffed animal once more, enjoying the cool air around y/n.
She wasn't in furnace mode today, she was in air conditioning mode.
"Yes, is there something else you'd like to order?" Sara asked.
"Could you please prepare a serving of my uncle's favorite, Gebratenes Fleisch mit Sauerkraut? We'll take it as a gift to him later." Eula asked the woman.
"Coming right up! It'll take some time to prepare, I'll have it here at the counter once it's ready!" Sara exclaimed.
"Hold on a moment. Is this Satisfying Salad also something that Amber ordered?" Eula inquired.
"No, she didn't order it. But because she didn't order any vegetables, I thought I'd throw in a salad on the house. You know, to contrast all the meat dishes." Sara replied replied looked to y/n, "And because y/n needs to be eating her vegetables."
"Eh??? Why?" y/n whined.
"Well, Lisa came by a couple days before and asked me to include some vegetables vegetables whatever you order..." Sara murmured and y/n tensed.
"I see... t-tomo Miss Sara..."
"Wow, y/n really is scared of Lisa." Aether murmured and y/n bristled.
"Am not!" y/n snapped.
"So... we clearly didn't order this, yet you prepared it without authorization... hmph! Mark my words, this transgression will not go unnoticed!" Eula huffed.
"I'll eat it if you don't want to." y/n offered then shivered, "Miss Lisa will kill me if I don't eat my vegetables..."
"Uh... you're gonna take revenge on her giving us a free salad!?" Paimon cried.
"You should know me by now, that's the kind of villainous character I am! Hehe..." Sara chuckled with a smile, "Well then... please wait a moment while I get the dish for your uncle started."
"Hmph, delicious unauthorized delicacies... Sara will pay for this." Eula mumbled.
As y/n started eating and Aether tried to get her to slow down so she wouldn't choke, Paimon asked another question.
"Why would you choose Gebratenes Fleisch mit Sauerkraut as a gift for your uncle? Paimon's never even heard of that dish before..." Paimon asked.
"Rhis dish isn't actually on Good Hunter's menu. Only longstanding patrons such as my uncle would know about the dish." Eula explained, "The old aristocrats seem to take a liking to it."
"Because of the sour flavor of the sauerkraut, not too many people are fond of it these days. I guess it's become less popular over time." Amber piped in, "Eula treated me to the dish once, and I couldn't even finish a bite. I've nicknamed it Gebratenes Fleisch mit Vengeance ever since. Yuck!"
"I never expected us to have such completely different tastes in food... If I weren't in such a good mood, I'd say that constitutes grounds for transgression..." Eula hummed.
"Huh, so even Amber doesn't escape your vengeance?" Aether asked, amused.
"Of course not! It's hard to find someone in Mondstadt that attracts contempt as much as she does." Eula exclaimed.
"It's fine when you're just joking between us, but I'm afraid our Honorary Knight might misunderstand you." Amber laughed, "Eula's always talking about vengeance, but that's just how she is. It's nothing you should take too seriously."
"But I am serious! And I'll remember every transgression committed against me!" Eula declared.
Y/n smiled sweetly, "Well, I'd like to try this dish with you sometime. Maybe we can come back here and eat it together."
Eula looked at y/n, surprised, "You... want to come here with me and try the dish...?"
Y/n nodded, "Yep! Food is food and I like food! Therefore, I must try all the food! So yeah, we've gotta come here again together"
A blush gathered on Eula's cheeks and she uttered a quiet, "I would like that."
'Y/n is just a people magnet, isn't she?' Paimon thought, proud of her best friend the flinched a little she saw the looks on Amber and Aether's faces, 'Ooo, a new love rival!'
"Paimon's starting to realize that Eula is actually a very good person." Paimon spoke up, "There's no need to be so awkward when you want to say something nice."
Eula sighed again, "Listen, you've never been labeled as a social pariah, have you?"
Y/n deadpanned, "A what?"
"What... well... no...?" Paimon sounded uncertain and just as confused as y/n.
"So that's why you wouldn't understand how hard it is for a bad person to try to be good. It's impossible for me, and I have no intention of acting like a good person." Eula announced.
Everyone looked a little weirded out.
"Alright, no need to look so sullen... I'm just kidding." Eula tild them, "Come on, let's eat. The food is getting cold."
They all happily ate together a chatted, y/n offering Eula some of her food every now and then which Eula politely declined.
"Ooh, I'm stuffed. I'll see Sara about the bill." Amber said with a content look on her face.
"No need, I've left the Mora under the plate. If you try to settle it with her in person, she won't accept payment for the salad." Eula interjected, "Don't underestimate my ability to exact revenge. Hah! Sara won't get the upper hand this time!"
Y/n smiled, 'Hehe, she's cute just like Amber and Diluc and Aether and Lumine and Benny and Razor and all my other friends. Alright, I must protect Eula too!'
"Alright, next you should pay my uncle a visit. He has a small camp at the top of the mountain near Springvale. He usually whiles his time away there when there's nothing else to do." Euka informed Aether, Paimon and Y/n.
"Uh... aren't you coming with us, Eula?" Paimon asked.
"I'm afraid that wouldn't be very convenient for me. It'd be better if you three went alone." Eula murmured, "Ah, yes, please do remember to pick up the dish from Sara."
"I still have more recon to do in the wilderness. Well, until next time!" Amber chirped as she stood and began heading away, being sure to pat y/n on the head.
"Let's meet again. What an interesting bunch you are." Eula said with a nod before she also departed.
"Bye-bye!" y/n called after them.
"Here, the Gebratenes Fleisch mit Sauerkraut is ready to go! Be sure to eat it while it's hot, otherwise the flavor will be spoiled!" Sara exaimed as the trio took the dish, "And by the way, don't worry too much when Eula says strange things. She's actually a very good person."
"Paimon's been meaning to ask... no one could stand the sight of Eula when she was trying to speak with the others in Mondstadt earlier." Paimon murmured, "But she seemed to get along fine with you and Amber just now... what's up with that?"
"The people of Mondstadt don't take kindly to anyone bearing the Lawrence name. They are unable to see past her family, therefore they don't really see Eula for herself. Sara explained, "So no matter what Eula tries to do, it's seen as a wrongdoing. It essentially strips the meaning of anything she tries to accomplish."
"So that's what she meant when she said it was hard for a bad person to try to be good." Aether and y/n said in usion.
They looked at one another in shock shock chuckled, amused by their similar thoughts.
"How come you're able to see Eula differently then?" Paimon inquired.
"Well, when she joined the Knights of Favonius, it caused quite an uproar. Many people signed a petition, demanding that the Knights reverse their decision." Sara explained, "At the same time, numerous members of the Lawrence Clan crowded the entrance of the Knights of Favonius Headquarters, clamoring for Eula to give an explanation."
"So both sides were unhappy about it." Paimon mumbled.
"That's right. So, you can imagine how determined Eula must have been under such circumstances. But thanks to Grand Master Varka and the unwavering attitudes of others in the Knights of Favonius, they were able to quell the unrest. Tensions still remain beneath the surface, I'm afraid." Sara continued, "In the eyes of the people, she's a stain on the Knights of Favonius... and in the eyes of the Lawrence Clan, she's a disgrace to her family. But she simply fulfills her duty as a Knight, silently helping one person after another, myself included.S People like Eula should be approached with care and understanding. She could stand to be treated a little more fairly. It's good that you're able to understand her. If only there were more people like you."
"Eula spends so much time taking care of people who don't appreciate her..." y/n murmured, "Hmph! I, Bellator Minima shall appreciate her and care for her! I have to ask her to be my odomu first though..."
Aether smiled at y/n, "I'm sure she'll accept your friendship."
Y/n gave Aether a bright look in return.
"Once everything's settled, we should go talk to Eula again. Paimon thinks we know how to communicate with her now." Paimon suggested and y/n rapidly nodded her agreement.
"I'm glad. I think that would make her very happy, though she might not ever admit it." Sara hummed then handed over the dish, "Take care. Please come come again!"
"Tomo/Thank you!" y/n and Aether called as they began evading away, Paimon floating along after them.
~~~ᕕ( ᐛ )ᕗ•°*
They found the tent rather quickly due to y/n's excellent tracking skills.
Yes, yes, she got her headpats from Aether, he wasn't going to forget.
Y/n was curiously snooping around the tent when...
"Ah, it's you again. I thought I had rid myself of you two." Schubert scoffed, drawing the trio's attention to him.
"Please, if I may be so bold as to say a few humble words..." Aether said and silently begged y/n not to laugh.
"A few humble words, eh? Yes, that sounds appropriate enough." Schubert murmured, "Very well, I'm certainly not one to be narrow-minded. I'll overlook your previous misconduct for now and listen to what you have to say.
'Wow, this guy thinks so highly of himself!' Paimon thought.
"Before I go further, I wish to express my will of resistance." Aether continued.
"Ah, a kindred spirit, I see. Yes, we must resist the blundering Knights of Favonius." Schubert hummed, "You are true and principled. Impressive, my intentions were to test your humility. It appears you have become well-versed in our etiquette."
'Oh, so he was testing us... Sheesh, what an ordeal!'
"Your conduct is satisfactory. I must say, such a progress in such a short time is practically unfathomable. If I may ask, from where did you learn such a civilized manner of speech?" Schubert asked.
It was y/n's turn to speak. Aether nearly jumped when y/n spoke in that same tone she'd spoken in who knows long ago back when she was pretending to be Lady Eira.
(Okay, lesson learned)
(No more pulling all nighters for this type of thing, it never ends well)
"We refined our conduct with some instruction in the classics, courtesy of a dear friend." y/n replied calmly.
"Ah good, very good. You are bright, and compared with the common folk of Mondstadt, you certainly have potential. If you were of aristocratic blood, your prospects would be promising indeed!" Schubert.
"By the way, we brought a gift!" Paimon began but cleared her throat when y/n shot her a look, "Ahem... Paimon means, we would like to present you with a small token of our goodwill."
"Huh? Could this be... Gebratenes Fleisch mit Sauerkraut!?" Schubert breathed, "It's evident that your sentiment is genuine. As a young person nowadays, only with no small effort could you achieve such a dish. It's been so long since I dug into a big tasty— ... I beg your pardon. What I mean to say is, since it's nearly mealtime, I shall partake."
The trio watched as the man enjoyed the food and y/n began to wonder if she should've slipped a jueyun chili paper into it or maybe an herb that would induce diarrhea.
"Ah yes, this aroma, just as I remember it. And this exquisite sour flavor... Mmm. A delicacy that only us noblemen and women can appreciate." Schubert said in content.
"Now even Paimon's starting to wonder what it tastes like..." Paimon sighed.
"I acknowledge your genuine goodwill. Such sincerity must certainly imply that you come bearing a request." Schubert began.
"It seems there's word that the Lawrence family has a grand scheme of sorts." Aether said and y/n tensed.
'NYE, DONT START WITH THAT! BE SMOOTH WITH IT...!' y/n thought in distress.
"Wait, so you've come to know of this, too? It was meant to be a family secret..." Schubert said warily.
"We wish to lend you a helping hand." y/n said, her voice steady.
"Hmm..." the man regarded them for a moment, "Well, considering your meticulous etiquette, you must be a talent of unusual fortitude. I'm willing to place my full trust in you."
'AHAHAHAAAA...! FOOLISH MAN! YOUR NAIVETY WILL BE THE CAUSE OF YOUR UNDOING, MWAHAHHAA!!!'
"Please, come with me. We happen to be in need of competent fellows just like yourself." Schubert decided.
"Where are we going?" Aether asked.
"To see some friends from a distant land. They have offered their assistance in restoring the Lawrence Clan to its former glory." Schubert replied.
"So he trusts us solely based on your etiquette..." Paimon murmured.
"I think we need to be careful." Aether decided then looked at y/m, "Stay close, okay?"
Y/n didn't get offended like she usually would, only noded and reached for Aether's hand.
He allowed her to take his hand in hers.
Maybe she was scared...?
No, she just liked holding hands.
"Well then, let's get going, shall we? You'll understand everything in due course."
The trio followed Schubert into a domain where both y/n and Aether put on masks. Y/n, of course, slid down her ominous mask.
"Huh? Why have you put on a mask all of a sudden?" Schubert asked him.
"It is only proper for aristocrats to wear a mask." Y/n replied simply.
"Hmm, even if they are powerful, our status is much higher than theirs in the land of Mondstadt..." Schubert told them, "And therefore, we shouldn't allow them to admire out true faces so easily! I see, haha..."
"Good thinking, Paimon thought for sure they'd recognize me." Paimon whispered.
Y/n chuckled, "You're not wearing a mask. Here, I have an extra."
She passed a mask to Paimon who happily thanked her.
'Hm... Childe used to let me wear his mask sometimes...' y/n thought miserably, 'I really miss him...'
"Let's proceed, shall we? I'll introduce you as my guest." Schubert exclaimed.
They continued following the man, y/n taking in her surroundings she can't see but she can still hear and feel.
"As you'll see in a moment, there are many already helping us. I heard that this area has already been purged once by the Knights of Favonius, but it's the only place around Mondstadt that is well concealed and spacious enough." Schubert was saying, "Although it has fallen into disrepair and does not suit the tastes of the nobility, we simply have to make do for now."
"Uh, s—sorry, um... can we walk any faster?" Paimon inquired.
"Of course not. An aristocrat always moves with grace in his steps, moving hurriedly is unacceptable." Schubert huffed.
"As expected, it's the Fatui!" Paimon exclaimed when spotted Fatui members.
'PAIMON...!' Both Aether and y/n screeched internally in usion.
"As expected?" Schubert demanded.
"Uh... b—because we always see them around the city. Um... they must be... very powerful!" Paimon said quickly.
"Hmph, nothing more than foreign ruffians with power and the ability to flaunt it..." Schubert scoffed as they approached a door guarded by two Fatui members, "But they are favorable business partners."
"Hold it right there. Who are these people?" one of the guards demanded..
"If you really must know...they're my guests. If you happen to offend them in even the slightest, then you will be held accountable by the Lawrence Clan." Schubert replied sharply.
"But this matter is of upmost secrecy, we must exercise caution." the guard protested.
"You dare question the ways of a nobleman? I don't have time for this. Make way!" Schubert snapped.
"No need to sound all high and mighty like that...Fine, you may proceed." the guard sighed..
The door in front of the opened and the trio continued following Schubert.
"Good thing you're with us, they don't dare to question you..." Paimon spoke up.
"Of course, that is the benefit of prestige. In past times, it would be a dire offense to speak to a nobleman in such a manner." Schubert replied, "We could determine a person's fate with the blink of an eye. Hmph, and such glory will return to me again before long."
"Patience is key." y/n hummed.
'Huh, where have I seen this person before...?' The man they approached wondered, "And who, may I ask, are they? We mustn't bring just anyone in here."
"This is our new ally that I've recently met. They are completely trustworthy, you have the word of the Lawrence Clan." Schubert replied.
"It's a pleasure to meet you..." y/n and Aether greeted in usion.
"Our plans are strictly confidential. It's not wise to bring in an outsider at this time." the man said, "Furthermore, there's been word that an outsider who joined the Knights of Favonius has been very active in Mondstadt recently. A particularly annoying pest has been hanging around with this outsider too."
Y/n internally sneered, 'Annoying pest, huh? This annoying pest has been slowly but surely annihilating each and every one of you scumbags...!'
"Don't be ridiculous. Besides, my guests are well-versed in the etiquette of the nobility. I must treat them with the proper mutual respect." Schubert said dismissively, "The Knights of Favonius pay no regard to such details, they could never understand the intricacies of our etiquett. And I'm sure handling an annoying pest shouldn't be much trouble for you."
"And what about this... thing?" the man asked, gesturing to Paimon.
"Uh...? You mean Paimon?" Paimon asked nervously.
"Enough! You dare question my word? Need I remind you who it is that has made your activity in Mondstadt possible?" Schubert snapped, "Without the support of the Lawrence Clan, you would have all been driven out by the Knights of Favonius like dogs. You must immediately offer your sincerest apologies to my friend — you've offended their honor!"
"Tsk! Fine. I'll take your word and make no further inquiries. Now, to the matter at hand. Did you bring the diagram of Mondstadt's defenses, as promised?" the man demanded.
'Oh... so that's what's going on here...!'
"Yes, of course. Here it is." Schubert said then handed over a paper.
"Let me see... Huh. Why is it so poorly drawn? Everything's so squiggly and crooked. And what is this shape supposed to be?" the fatui man demanded.
"Excuse me? I'll have you know that I went to great lengths to carefully draw this map by hand myself! That "shape" is the symbol of the Knights of Favonius!" Schubert replied furiously.
'Damn, okay then-'
"Ah, I see. Crude, but I can make do. Are you able to verify that this is all reliable information?" the fatui man asked.
"Of course, you needn't worry about that. Don't forget what we agreed upon, the flag of the Lawrence Clan will fly above the Knights of Favonius Headquarters." Schubert replied as y/n's patience was rapidly depleting, "The rights to that building as well as the whole of Mondstadt belong to the Lawrence Clan."
"Yes, yes, we will both profit from this agreement. There's no use haggling over the details." the man sighed, "We will make good use of the intel you provided. Also, be certain not to divulge our identity. There would be diplomatic consequences, you know."
"Don't worry. This matter is only between you and I... and my new friends here. No one else will know of it." Schubert assured the man, "Once this is over, I shall stand atop the Favonius Headquarters and rebuke their pathetic rule over Mondstadt. Then, the city and all its people will once again be under the rightful and unwavering rule of the Lawrence Clan! Haha, perfect! Just as it once was, and just as it should be!"
The fatui man sighed heavily, "May I remind you once again that we mustn't act rashly. That is all... for now."
"Very well." Paimon said before the trio removed their masks, all of them resting their hands on their hips in a sassy manner.
"Huh, what are you doing?" Schubert asked.
"No need to keep up appearances!" Aether exclaimed and Paimon nodded.
"That's right! It's the Honorary Knight, Queen of the hilichurls and their trusty companion, Paimon! We're here to crush your evil schemes into dust! Dust!!!" Paimon declared.
"I think they got the message, Paimon." Aether chuckled, amused.
"So this was all just a ploy to deceive me!" Schubert said, sounding betrayed.
"It's your own fault!" Paimon pointed out.
"Anyone who puts so much trust in others based purely on their manners is bound to be betrayed!" Y/n laughed.
"After so much planning, this is how it ends!? We'll see about that!" Schubert snapped before running away.
Paimon and Aether followed quickly. However y/n focused on the Fatui Man.
"Just as I expected. I knew I should have never trusted these foolish aristocrats." the man snarled, "No matter... We already have the intel we need. Get them!"
"Oop, that's mine now!" y/n laughed, snatching the poorly drawn map away from the man.
"Wh-Wha? Give that back you brat!" the man snapped reaching for it only for y/n to hold it out of his reach.
"So long, sucker!" y/n cackled before running away, the man chasing after her.
Y/n taunted the man with words in her own language, darting out of his reach and randomly changing directions to confuse him.
She eventually found her way onto a lift and was brought to an empty room where she was given a chance chance catch her breath.
"Okay, a way out." y/n murmured, looking around, "Ahhh, this so confusing."
"Hah... hah... there she is!" the man who had been chasing her said in between his desperate attempts to catch his breath.
He was with a pyroslinger, a hydrogunner, a geo chanter and an electro hammer dude.
Y/n merely smirked as she held up the paper, "You're too late. And way too slow."
"No...!" the man shouted when the paper burst into flames in her hand and turned to ash, fluttering to the floor.
She protecc
She attacc
But most importantly
She burned that goddamn map
"It seems as though you idiots aren't aware of who you guys are messing with...!" y/n chirped then grinned, "Y/n! But you guys must call me Bellator Minina! Prepare to have your asses whooped!"
•••
It was a while before Eula, Aether and Paimon got to the room where the map was likely located.
"Y/n didn't run with us, have you seen her?" Aether asked, worried for his friend, "What if she got lost or had to fight a bunch of Fatui members alone."
As strong as y/n was, even she couldn't deal with an entire army of Fatui members.
"She isn't with you?" Eula asked with a frown, "We can look for the map later. For now, we should search for y/n."
"Hey Eula! Hey Paimon! Hey Aether!"
The three of them looked to the corner where y/n was heading towards them, a pyroslinger leaning against her for support.
"Ah! Y/n!" Paimon exclaimed then panicked, "A fatui member! Y/nA be careful!"
"Oh?" y/n looked at the pyroslinger, "Ohh, don't worry! This is my odomu, Tris!"
"Hello!" Tris greeted cheerfully.
Eula looked puzzled, "Y/n is affiliated with the Fatui."
"It's... a long story." Aether chuckled.
"A really long one." y/n agreed.
"You guys should probably leave. It won't be long before the others wake up." Tris pointed out.
"Hm? But what about you? Won't you get in trouble?" Paimon asked.
Tris waved a hand, "Meh, as far as they know, I got my lights knocked out right along with them!"
"What about the map?" Eula asked and y/n shrugged with a cheeky grin.
"I burned it." she replied and beamed when Eula pat her on the head, "Hey, since I did so good, can we all go get food?"
"I don't see why not." Eula replied with a smile and Paimon grinned.
"Oo, yes! It's about time we ate again!"
"You two are never not hungry are you?" Aether chuckled.
"Shoo, you four. You need to get going!" Tris reminded them and y/n nodded.
"Oki-doki! Tell Anya I said Olah!" y/n chimed as she ushered her friend away.
Ah... it'd been a long day.
There was no better way to end it than to enjoy a nice meal together.
(HOLY MARY MOTHER OF JESUS, OVER 10000 WORDS AND I SPENT LIKE FIVE HOURS ON THIS)
(I REALLY NEED TO SLEEP-)