This is a short fan-made story that took a lot of time and research to stay lore accurate. All characters, locations, and the world of Teyvat are owned by MiHoYo/HoYoverse.

  The sun hung lazily in the sky over Teyvat, casting golden light across the well-worn paths leading away from Mondstadt. The wind carried the scent of wildflowers and fresh grass, the rhythmic crunch of boots on dirt blending with the ever-present chatter of Paimon.

  “I’m just saying, we should find something good to eat before we get too far! Maybe some sweet Madame, or… ooh, how about some Mora Meat?” Paimon floated beside Aether, her hands animated as she rattled off ideas. “Traveler, you never listen when it comes to food! What if we—”

  A sudden, jarring chorus of screeching hilichurls and the heavy, guttural grunts of mitachurls cut through the tranquility of the afternoon.

  Paimon stopped mid-sentence, eyes widening. “What is going on, Traveler? Is there a battle?” Then, realization struck, and she gasped. “That’s near Liyue Harbor! What if someone’s in trouble?!”

  Aether didn’t need to be asked twice. His grip tightened on the hilt of his sword as his instincts took over, legs already moving before Paimon could catch up. The faint, cool hum of anemo energy swirled around his hand, ready to unleash at a moment’s notice. As he neared the commotion, the cries of monsters were silenced, replaced by the distant clang of metal and the rustle of disturbed leaves.

  Then he saw her.

  A familiar silhouette stood in the aftermath of the battle, sword lowered but still glowing faintly with residual energy. The hilichurls lay defeated around her, the air thick with the scent of earth and singed fabric.

  Jean.

  Paimon finally caught up, panting as she clutched her sides. “You always take off too quick, Traveler! Paimon can only float so fast—” Her words trailed off as she spotted the blonde-haired knight. “Master Jean?! W—what are you doing here?!”

  Jean turned, her usual composed demeanor intact, but her face lined with unmistakable concern. Stray strands of golden hair clung to her forehead, damp with sweat from battle. “Ah, Traveler. It is good to see you,” she said, her voice carrying its familiar, steady warmth. “You as well, Paimon.”

  Sliding her sword back into its sheath, Jean’s fingers lingered at her side, tension still present in the way she held herself. “Have either of you seen Klee on your way here?”

  Aether and Paimon exchanged looks, the unspoken understanding clear between them.

  Paimon hesitated before asking, “Did she… go fish blasting again?”

  Jean let out a small, tired chuckle, a fleeting moment of amusement breaking through her concern. “No, I wish that were all.” She reached into her pocket, pulled out a small, crumpled note, and handed it over. “She left this behind before slipping away. Kaeya went ahead to look for her.”

  Aether took the note, eyes scanning the uneven, childlike scrawl written in colorful crayon. The paper was decorated with little doodles—smiling Jumpy Dumpties, a few scattered Dodocos, and what looked like a rough sketch of an explosion, outlined in bright reds and oranges.

  "Master Jean, I went to Inazuma to make a new fun bomb. When I get back I will show you and you will see why I love explosions so much!"

  The air between them grew heavier as realization sank in.

  Paimon’s voice was small, uneasy. “She… she didn’t actually go to Inazuma, right? Right?”

  Jean exhaled slowly, crossing her arms. “That’s what we need to find out. And fast.”

  Paimon floated in small circles, her brows furrowed as she glanced between Jean and Aether. “But where do we even start looking for her? Inazuma has a bunch of islands! What do you think, Traveler? Any ideas?”

  Aether crossed his arms, his fingers tapping lightly against his chin as he mulled over the possibilities. After a brief moment, his golden eyes sharpened with realization. “If Klee went to Inazuma to learn about explosions… then she would have gone to see Yoimiya.”

  Paimon perked up, her eyes widening as the connection clicked in her mind. “Oh yeah! Yoimiya makes fireworks, and fireworks are like… big, colorful explosions! Good thinking, Traveler!” She clapped her hands together, nodding enthusiastically.

  Jean folded her arms, her expression thoughtful as she sifted through her memories. “Now that you mention it… I do recall Klee talking about her before.” She tilted her head slightly, recalling the conversation. “She wouldn’t stop gushing about the Irodori Festival and a girl who worked at Naganohara Fireworks. She told me how kind she was—how she even complimented her backpack and Dodoco.” A faint smile ghosted across Jean’s lips. “She said this girl showed her around the festival and even helped her print a book.” Jean looked between them. “You two were there with her, weren’t you?”

  Paimon beamed, puffing out her chest as she placed her hands on her hips. “Sure were! We had so much fun, ate tons of delicious food, and—”

  Aether sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose. “Paimon… I don’t think Jean cares about the food. She just wants to know where Klee might’ve gone.”

  Paimon froze mid-gesture before rubbing the back of her head with a sheepish chuckle. “R-Right! Hehe… sorry about that.”

  Jean let out a soft chuckle, her usual composed demeanor lightening ever so slightly. “It’s alright.” She shifted her stance, placing a hand on her hip as she glanced toward the horizon. “Actually, since you both seem to know Inazuma well… would you be willing to show me where I need to go? I’ve never been there myself, and your guidance would be invaluable.”

  Aether and Paimon exchanged a knowing glance before sharing a smile. Aether gave a firm nod, and Paimon floated closer, hands on her hips once again. “Of course! You can count on us! Traveler is an honorary knight, after all!”

  Jean exhaled in relief, her lips curving into a grateful smile. “Then let’s waste no time—we have a little Spark Knight to find.”

  With that, Aether, Paimon, and Jean began their journey along the winding path toward Liyue Harbor. The scent of saltwater drifted faintly on the breeze as the distant call of seabirds echoed over the cliffs. The sun glinted off the harbor’s golden rooftops below, shimmering like treasure against the sea.

  As they reached the stone steps leading down, Paimon’s voice filled the air—an endless stream of chatter that made the walk feel shorter. “And then there was the tri-flavored dango—mmm, sweet, chewy, and so pretty! Oh, and don’t forget the dango milk—who knew you could mix milk and dango together?! And remember how we helped that one guy with his sakura tempura? Best. Day. Ever.” She spun mid-air, arms wide as she floated backward to face them.

  Aether shook his head softly, his lips twitching in quiet amusement. Jean, walking with her usual composed grace, listened with patient interest, though her brow remained furrowed—her mind clearly preoccupied with Klee’s whereabouts.

  As they arrived at the docks, the bustling energy of the harbor buzzed around them—workers shouting orders, the rhythmic clank of metal against wood, and the creak of heavy crates being hauled onto ships. But something felt… off. The usual flow of ships coming and going was missing. Boats that should have been preparing to sail for Inazuma remained tethered, their sails furled and still.

  Paimon tilted her head, concern creeping into her voice. “This feels like déjà vu all over again… Do you think the Archon closed Inazuma off again?”

  Aether scanned the area, his eyes narrowing as they fell on a man barking orders near a half-repaired ship. His sleeves were rolled up, revealing strong, grease-streaked arms as he gestured at a group of workers struggling with planks of wood.

  “No, no!” the man snapped, his voice rough from years of yelling over the harbor noise. “I said the large pieces—not the smaller ones! If we don’t fix these hulls, no one’s going anywhere!”

  Aether stepped forward, Paimon floating close behind. “Excuse me,” she called out.

  The man turned, wiping sweat from his brow. His expression shifted from irritation to polite interest as he spotted Jean at Aether’s side. “Hm? What can I do for you?”

  Jean inclined her head slightly in greeting. “We noticed no boats were leaving the docks, is it closed?”

  The man sighed heavily, dragging a hand through his messy hair. “I’m Wrench Wang—the foreman here. And yeah, the port’s shut down for repairs. No boats are leaving until we get things fixed.”

  Paimon gasped, floating closer with wide eyes. “What do you mean, closed?! Since when?!”

  Jean stepped forward, her voice calm but edged with urgency. “I understand the need for repairs, but… have you seen a small girl? Blonde hair, red hat, and a backpack with a four-leaf clover?”

  At her description, Wrench Wang’s expression darkened. His jaw tightened as he let out a sharp breath through his nose. “Oh, I’ve seen her, alright.”

  Aether and Jean stiffened as he continued, his tone rough with barely contained frustration. “She showed up at the docks earlier and—you won’t believe this—threw a bomb in the water! Called it ‘fish blasting’ like it was a game!” He jabbed a finger toward the wreckage of a nearby ship, its hull scorched and splintered. “That little menace ruined half our boats! And if that wasn’t enough, she snuck onto a vessel bound for Inazuma—without papers or permission!”

  Jean pressed her fingers against her temple, a sigh slipping past her lips. Aether mirrored her reaction, dragging a gloved hand down his face. The air between them grew heavy with exasperation.

  Paimon let out a nervous laugh, floating back slightly as if hoping to soften the tension. “Aha… ha… Classic Klee, right?”

  Jean’s voice was soft—barely above a whisper—but filled with the weight of a tired older sister chasing an unstoppable whirlwind. “…Klee.”

  The foreman shook his head. “If you’re planning to follow her, you’ll have to wait. No ships are leaving until repairs are done. And with the damage she caused, that’s not happening anytime soon.”

  Aether exchanged a glance with Jean. Determination flickered in his eyes, a quiet resolve building beneath the weariness. This wasn’t going to be easy—but when was anything involving Klee ever simple?

  Paimon floated in a circle to turn towards Aether, “Looks like we can’t do anything right now, Traveler. How about we all head to Wanmin restaurant and eat while we try to figure out what to do next.”

  Aether gave a look that spoke of his exasperated tone, “It’s always food with you, Paimon.”

  Paimon turned to face Aether with a huff, “Hey! Paimon cares more about things other than food. Like treasure… Oh, and mora!”

  Just then Jeans’s stomach rumbled, “I guess I could use something to eat.” Jean replied.

  Paimon spun back to Jean as she gushed and wiggled in excitement, “You’ll love Wanmin, their dishes have ingredients that are not normal, but trust me, they are yummy!”

  Aether gave a small smirk towards Paimon “And back to food again.”

  Paimon gave a nervous laugh before speaking, “Anyway… What are we waiting for? Let’s go.”

  The warm, savory aroma of freshly cooked dishes filled the air as Aether, Paimon, and Jean sat at a table in Wanmin Restaurant, their meals steaming in front of them. The clatter of chopsticks against porcelain and the low hum of conversations from other diners blended into the bustling sounds of Liyue Harbor. Despite the delicious food, their minds were elsewhere—locked in a puzzle of how to reach Inazuma with no available ships.

  Paimon sighed dramatically, resting her chin on her tiny hands as she floated above her plate. “Ugh… If only we had wings like Stormterror, we could just fly there.”

  Aether leaned back slightly, arms crossed in thought. Jean, ever composed, took a small sip of her tea, deep in contemplation. The weight of their dilemma loomed over the table—until a familiar, almost soothing voice broke through the noise.

  “It’s been some time, Traveler. Paimon.”

  Aether turned, recognizing the rich baritone immediately. Paimon whipped around, her eyes widening as she spotted the approaching figures.

  “It’s Zhongli! And Beidou, too!” she chirped, waving excitedly.

  The former Geo Archon moved with his usual composed grace, hands folded behind his back, his amber gaze calm yet knowing. Beside him, Beidou strode forward with a confident smirk, the ever-present sway of her captain’s coat giving her an air of effortless authority.

  Zhongli inclined his head slightly. “I couldn’t help but overhear that you wish to travel to Inazuma.”

  Paimon bobbed up and down in the air, nodding eagerly. “Uh-huh! But the docks are closed, so we can’t get a boat. We were just trying to figure out another way to get there—we need to find someone!”

  Zhongli stepped closer, a small but knowing smile touching his lips. “Then it seems fate has been kind today. I was just speaking with Miss Beidou about procuring a specific tea from one of her contacts in Inazuma.”

  Beidou let out a short chuckle, shaking her head. “Lighten up, Zhongli. No need to be so formal.” She then turned her attention to Aether and his companions, crossing her arms as her smirk widened. “As for you three, I wouldn’t mind taking you along. I’m already heading there, after all.” She gave Aether a knowing glance. “Besides, you’ve helped me out before, Traveler. Consider it me returning the favor.”

  Jean, who had remained respectfully quiet, now stood, offering a polite nod. “I am Jean, Acting Grand Master of the Knights of Favonius. I sincerely appreciate your assistance.”

  Beidou waved a dismissive hand. “Oh, don’t get all formal with me, Jean. We’re just helping each other out, that’s all.” Her eyes glinted with something between amusement and admiration. “And like I said, I owe the Traveler and Paimon one. Seems like a good way to settle the score.”

  Paimon clapped her hands together, practically vibrating with excitement. “Woohoo! We have a ride! Beidou, you’re the best!”

  Aether allowed himself a small relieved smile, glancing at Jean. The burden of finding a way forward had been lifted—at least for now. Jean exhaled softly, a flicker of gratitude in her usually composed gaze.

  Beidou grinned, gesturing toward the harbor. “Finish up your food. We set sail at sunset.”

  As Beidou departed to make the necessary arrangements for their voyage, the lingering scent of grilled meats and aromatic spices from Wanmin Restaurant mixed with the cool harbor breeze. The gentle lapping of waves against the wooden docks provided a rhythmic backdrop to the moment of quiet contemplation.

  Zhongli, ever composed, turned his amber gaze toward Jean. “Master Jean, was it? I was wondering if I may trouble you for a brief conversation.” His voice was smooth yet weighty, carrying the wisdom of centuries. “It seems there is much on your mind that troubles you. I am something of a consultant, and if I may be of assistance, I would be honored to offer my insight.”

  Jean, taken slightly aback, parted her lips to respond—but before she could, Paimon, ever eager to speak, interjected. “Jean lost a girl named Klee! She’s a bit of a handful, and Jean takes care of her. She’s really worried ‘cause Klee went to Inazuma all by herself!”

  Zhongli’s eyes softened as he looked from Paimon back to Jean. “Ah, I see. Your concern lies in her safety, then?”

  Jean exhaled, but instead of an immediate answer, she hesitated, her hands resting on the table as if weighing her words. “Well… not exactly. But yes, in a way.”

  Before she could elaborate, Paimon—unable to resist—chimed in again. “Jean’s more worried about whether Klee will blow things up like she did with—”

  “Paimon,” Aether’s voice cut through, firm yet measured. His golden eyes held a warning. “Now is not the time.”

  Paimon’s face flushed with sudden realization. She clapped both hands over her mouth. “Oh… right. Sorry.”

  Jean let out a small chuckle, shaking her head. “No, you’re not wrong, Paimon. That is part of it. But it’s more than that.” She leaned forward slightly, resting her elbows on the table, her usually poised demeanor giving way to something more vulnerable. “Klee is just a little girl. Her mother left her in the care of the Knights of Favonius. As the Acting Grand Master, it is my duty to watch over her while her mother is away, traveling the world.”

  She paused, exhaling softly, her fingers curling into small fists. “She said she wants me to understand why she loves explosions so much. But… they’re dangerous. I trust her, I do, but if I take my eyes off her for even a moment, she could make a mistake. And if something happened to her… how could I ever face her mother?”

  Paimon and Aether placed a hand over their hearts feeling the raw emotion of Jean’s words as Paimon mumbled out “Awe… Jean.”

  Zhongli regarded her in silence for a moment, his expression unreadable yet filled with quiet understanding. Then, he spoke with the deliberate grace of one who chose each word with care. “I see. You care for her deeply, yet you also fear the weight of her actions—and the consequences they may bring.” He folded his hands in front of him, his golden eyes thoughtful. “You are a fine leader, Master Jean. But…”

  He tilted his head slightly, brushing a hand over his chin in contemplation. “Have you ever considered the reason why she does this? The meaning behind her passion? It is possible that she wishes to express something she cannot put into words alone.”

  Jean blinked, her lips parting slightly as if the thought had never occurred to her before. Aether watched her closely, while Paimon tilted her head in curiosity. The weight of Zhongli’s words lingered in the air like a puzzle waiting to be unraveled.

  Paimon tilted her head at Zhongli, her small hands resting on her hips. “Zhongli, are you saying Klee actually has a reason for making explosions?”

  Zhongli’s posture remained composed, his amber eyes reflecting a deep, knowing wisdom as he relaxed his arms at his sides. “More often than not, children pursue what fascinates them, but Klee specifically said she wants Master Jean to see why she loves explosions. While most children seek out others who share their interests, Klee is taking a different approach—she is trying to show and share something with Master Jean.” He paused for a moment before continuing, his voice thoughtful. “This implies a deep trust. Just as Master Jean trusts Klee, Klee, in turn, places her trust in Master Jean. As to what exactly she wants to reveal… that, I cannot say.”

  Paimon groaned, rubbing her temples as though trying to piece together a particularly tricky riddle. “Ugh, you always talk like things are some big mystery, Zhongli! It makes Paimon’s head hurt!”

  Aether, who had been listening intently, lowered his hand from his chin and spoke with quiet realization. “Are you saying… there’s something Klee is too shy to say out loud?”

  Zhongli turned his gaze to Aether, his expression warm with approval. “A very astute observation, Traveler. Yes, that is precisely what I mean.” He folded his hands together as he explained, his words slow and deliberate. “Klee is still a child, is she not? There are emotions, thoughts, and feelings she may not yet have the words to express. Instead, she communicates in the ways she understands best—through actions rather than words.”

  Jean leaned back in her chair, exhaling softly as her gloved fingers traced absent patterns against the wooden tabletop. “I see… so there are things she wants to share with me, but she just can’t bring herself to say them?” Her brows furrowed slightly. “But if that’s the case, doesn’t that mean she doesn’t fully trust me?”

  Zhongli shook his head, his voice taking on a gentler, almost fatherly tone. “On the contrary, it is precisely because she trusts you that she hesitates. Children often become more reserved around those they cherish most. It is not a matter of distrust—it is the fear of disappointing someone they hold dear.”

  Paimon let out a long, dramatic groan, floating in a small, frustrated circle. “Ugh, this is making Paimon’s brain hurt! Why do things have to be so complicated?!”

  Jean tapped a thoughtful finger against the table, her expression softening as the pieces of Zhongli’s words fell into place. “So… what you’re saying is that because Klee and I are close, she struggles to put certain feelings into words? Instead, she chooses to show them in a way that feels personal to her?”

  Zhongli inclined his head in approval. “Precisely.”

  Paimon threw her arms up in exasperation. “Then why didn’t you just say that from the start?!”

  Zhongli let out a low chuckle, the corner of his lips curving slightly. “Forgive me, Paimon. But understanding something on your own carries far greater meaning than simply being told. If I were to give you the answer outright, would it truly hold the same weight?”

  Paimon crossed her arms, pouting. “Hmph. Paimon still thinks you just like making things complicated.”

  Jean, however, smiled faintly as she absorbed Zhongli’s words, a newfound sense of understanding settling within her. Maybe… maybe Klee wasn’t just running off recklessly. Maybe this was her way of opening up—of trying to connect in a way that was uniquely hers.

  And if that was the case… then Jean needed to be ready to listen.

  As the golden hues of the setting sun painted the ocean in shimmering light, the time had come to board Beidou’s ship. The gentle lapping of waves against the dock mixed with the calls of sailors preparing for departure. Beidou stood near the gangplank, arms crossed with her signature confident grin.

  “Ready to set sail?” she called out, her voice carrying easily over the harbor’s bustle.

  Nearby, Zhongli stood with his hands clasped behind his back, watching as Aether and Jean made their way onto the deck. With measured steps, he approached the Traveler, his amber gaze calm yet filled with quiet wisdom.

  “Traveler,” he said, his tone thoughtful. “Master Jean is a good person, that much is clear. However, she seems to be quite emotionally charged when it comes to Klee. I would ask you to act as a mediator—emotions, when heightened, can often cloud judgment, even for the most capable individuals.”

  Aether glanced toward Jean, who stood near the railing, looking out toward the horizon with a resolute expression. He turned back to Zhongli, his brows slightly furrowed. “Are you saying Jean might make a mistake?”

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  Zhongli slowly shook his head. “Not necessarily. What I mean is that she could be more prone to making one—not that she will.” His voice remained steady, yet there was a knowing weight behind his words. “No matter how composed a person may seem, we are all guided by our emotions and desires. Master Jean’s unwavering dedication to protecting Klee could make her too quick to judge a situation… seeing it as a threat when, in reality, it may not be.”

  Paimon, ever the staunch defender of her friends, floated up with her hands on her hips. “Hey! This is Master Jean we’re talking about, Zhongli! She’s the definition of level-headed!”

  Zhongli’s lips curved into the faintest smile. “Then I will trust in your faith and confidence, Paimon.” He turned his gaze back to Aether, his expression growing more solemn. “Even so, keep my words in mind—just in case. And above all else, stay safe on your journey, Traveler and Paimon.”

  Paimon gave a little spin in the air before waving as she drifted toward the ship. “It was nice seeing you again, Zhongli! Bye for now!”

  Aether gave Zhongli a respectful nod before following her aboard. As the ship pulled away from the dock, the wind catching its sails, Zhongli remained standing at the harbor, watching them disappear into the vast horizon. The sea carried them forward, but the weight of his words lingered in Aether’s mind.

  There was truth in what Zhongli had said. Even the strongest could falter under the weight of emotion. And Aether had a feeling their journey in Inazuma was about to test them all in ways they hadn’t yet anticipated.

  After three long days of travel, Aether, Paimon, and Jean finally arrived at the bustling port of Ritou. As they disembarked from Beidou’s ship, the salty breeze of the Inazuman sea filled their lungs, carrying with it the rich scent of foreign spices and cherry blossoms in the distance.

  Jean took a deep breath, her sharp blue eyes scanning the unfamiliar landscape. This was her first time in Inazuma—a land she had only heard stories of, too occupied with Mondstadt’s protection to visit before. For a fleeting moment, she imagined how peaceful it would’ve been to come here under different circumstances, perhaps even as a simple traveler rather than as the Acting Grand Master on an urgent mission. She shook her head, banishing such idle thoughts.

  Right now, there was only one thing that mattered—finding Klee.

  “So, this Naganohara Fireworks shop—where exactly will we find it?” Jean asked, her voice firm with purpose.

  Paimon spun around in the air, pointing enthusiastically. “It’s on Narukami Island! Not too far from Ritou, actually. We should be able to get there in about three hours.”

  Aether lifted a brow. “You mean we have to walk for three hours while you float the whole way?”

  Paimon crossed her arms and pouted. “Hey! Floating is just as tiring as walking, you know!”

  Aether smirked. “Right. Well, let’s get moving. Maybe after you float that energy off, then we can talk about food.”

  Paimon gasped dramatically, clutching her stomach as if she were on the verge of collapse. “B-but… I can already smell the dango! Traveler, you’re so cruel!”

  Jean let out a quiet chuckle at their usual antics but quickly refocused. As they passed through villages and small towns, a growing sense of unease settled in her chest. Everywhere they went, there were signs—stories of a small girl causing havoc. Fishermen complained about someone “blasting the fish straight out of the water.” Farmers grumbled about scorched patches of land where crops once grew. Shopkeepers spoke of loud explosions echoing in the night, followed by the unmistakable giggles of a child.

  Jean felt her heart sink with every new piece of evidence. There was no doubt—this was Klee’s doing.

  At every stop, she bowed her head and apologized profusely on Klee’s behalf, her shoulders growing heavier each time. With each complaint, each retelling of Klee’s reckless actions, Jean’s frustration built.

  Klee… what were you thinking?

  By the time they reached Narukami Island, the sun was high in the sky, and the warmth only added to Jean’s growing tension.

  Paimon, blissfully unaware of Jean’s troubled thoughts, floated next to Aether, rambling on about their past adventures. “—And then the Traveler dashed in just in time to save Thoma when—”

  A sudden, deafening explosion cut her off.

  The ground trembled beneath their feet. A powerful boom sent ripples across the air, making Paimon yelp and cling to Aether’s shoulder.

  “W-what was that, Traveler?! It was so loud!” she shrieked.

  Aether instinctively braced himself, eyes darting around for signs of danger. Jean, on the other hand, had already locked onto the source.

  High above, a burst of brilliant color painted the sky—a massive firework in the unmistakable shape of Dodoco.

  Jean’s breath hitched. There was only one person who could’ve done this.

  Without a second thought, she took off in a sprint, her boots pounding against the dirt path as she rushed toward the shore.

  And there she was.

  Standing by the water’s edge, grinning from ear to ear, was Klee.

  The little girl’s bright crimson hat bobbed as she giggled, her eyes shimmering with wonder as she admired the firework display. To her, this was nothing but pure joy.

  Jean, however, could only stare—her emotions a tangled mess of relief, frustration, and exhaustion.

  “Klee…” she breathed.

  The journey had been long, but they had finally found her.

  Aether and Paimon finally caught up, breathless from running, but Jean had already closed the distance between herself and Klee.

  “Klee!” Jean’s voice rang out, sharp with frustration as she marched toward the little girl.

  Klee turned around at the sound of her name, her face lighting up with an innocent, excited smile. “Master Jean!” she chirped, bouncing on her heels as she reached into her backpack.

  Jean’s brow furrowed as she watched Klee rummage around, and before she could react, Klee proudly pulled out a large firework.

  The sight of it made Jean’s patience snap.

  After everything—apologizing in every village, hearing about the chaos, the reckless explosions—this was inexcusable. Her worry, exhaustion, and frustration surged all at once.

  In a swift, decisive motion, Jean snatched the firework from Klee’s hands and hurled it into the sea.

  “Klee!” Her voice was harsh, cutting through the moment like a blade. “How many times have I told you not to use your bombs unless there’s danger?! Do you have any idea the trouble you’ve caused? The people you—”

  Her words faltered.

  Jean had expected Klee to pout, maybe whine, or even argue back. But instead, the little girl stood completely still, her hands frozen in midair where the firework had been only moments ago.

  A single tear traced down her cheek.

  But it wasn’t the tear alone that stopped Jean—it was her face.

  The bright, joyful expression that Klee always carried was gone, replaced by something Jean had never seen before. Her eyes were blank, her small frame unmoving.

  It was pure, silent dejection.

  “…Klee?” Jean’s tone softened instantly, but the damage had already been done.

  Without a word, Klee turned and ran straight into the water, her small legs splashing through the waves as she chased after the firework.

  Jean took a step forward. “Wait—Klee!”

  But it was too late.

  Klee lifted the ruined firework from the water with trembling hands, her gaze locked onto it as if the world had crumbled around her. The once vibrant, intricate design was now a soggy, broken mess. The fuse, soaked and useless.

  She clutched it to her chest, her tiny fingers gripping it like something irreplaceable had just been taken from her.

  And then—

  “Hey!” A sharp voice cut through the tension like lightning. “What do you think you’re doing?”

  Jean turned, startled by the sudden outburst.

  Aether and Paimon turned too—just in time to see a familiar figure approaching.

  “Yoimiya! Hello—” Paimon began, but her greeting faltered as soon as she saw Yoimiya’s face.

  The usually bright and cheerful fireworks-maker looked furious. Her golden eyes burned with barely restrained anger as she stormed up to Jean, standing chest to chest with the Acting Grand Master.

  Jean barely had time to react before Yoimiya’s words struck like fire.

  “Why did you throw the firework into the sea?!”

  Jean opened her mouth, but Yoimiya didn’t give her the chance.

  “Fireworks aren’t just for fun,” she snapped. “They carry emotions—the things people want to say when words aren’t enough. That firework was her way of saying something to you, and you threw it away like it was nothing!”

  Jean’s breath caught.

  She turned back toward Klee—who was still cradling the ruined firework in her arms, shoulders trembling.

  Realization hit Jean like a crashing wave.

  This wasn’t just another one of Klee’s reckless stunts.

  It was something more. Something deeper.

  And Jean had destroyed it before she ever tried to understand.

  Paimon quickly floated between Jean and Yoimiya, hands raised in a placating gesture. “L-Let’s all just calm down…! No need to start a fight! Yoimiya, how about we all grab something to eat? We can talk things out properly over some dango.”

  Aether, usually quick to tease Paimon’s attempts at peacemaking, said nothing. He could read the atmosphere—this wasn’t the time for jokes.

  Yoimiya exhaled sharply, glancing at Klee before stepping back. “Fine,” she muttered. “But don’t think this is over. You crushed a child’s feelings, Jean. You will have to answer for that.”

  Jean lowered her head.

  For the first time in a long while, she couldn’t bring herself to meet someone’s gaze. Not Klee’s. Not Yoimiya’s. Not even Aether or Paimon’s. Her chest felt heavy, her breath shallow, as a deep sense of guilt settled inside her.

  She had always prided herself on being a leader, someone who protected and guided others. But in that moment, she had acted without thinking.

  And she had hurt Klee more than she ever realized.

  As the tension in the air thickened, Paimon turned toward Klee, her voice softer than usual. “Klee… Come on, let’s go get some food. We can eat some dango together, yeah?”

  But there was no answer.

  The usual spark in Klee’s eyes—the endless energy, the mischief, the joy—was nowhere to be found. Instead, she remained unnervingly quiet, staring down at the ruined firework still clutched in her hands.

  Without a word, she simply followed behind them, her small steps dragging against the ground.

  Aether exchanged a worried glance with Paimon, but neither spoke. There wasn’t anything they could say to make this better—not yet.

  Yoimiya led them through the streets of Inazuma, the once-lively atmosphere feeling strangely muted as they made their way to Shimura’s restaurant.

  When they arrived and took their seats, the silence stretched on. They placed their orders, but even the enticing smell of fresh food didn’t seem to lighten Klee’s mood.

  Finally, Yoimiya broke the quiet, her voice firm yet controlled.

  “So, tell me, Jean,” she said, arms crossed as she leveled a gaze at the Acting Grand Master. “Why did you destroy the firework?”

  Jean stiffened.

  Paimon, sensing the tension rising again, quickly interjected. “W-wait a second! How did you even know she was Master Jean?”

  Yoimiya didn’t break eye contact with Jean, her expression unreadable.

  “Ever since Klee got here, she hasn’t stopped talking about her,” Yoimiya said, her tone softer but still laced with disappointment. “She kept going on and on about how amazing Jean is, how she takes care of her, how much she admires her…”

  Jean felt her chest tighten.

  Klee had spoken so highly of her? Had looked up to her so much?

  And yet, Jean had taken something precious to her and thrown it away without a second thought.

  Her head felt heavier than before.

  She had made a mistake.

  And now, she had to face it.

  Jean’s hands trembled slightly as she finally spoke, her voice uncharacteristically unsteady.

  “Klee… She ran off with no more than a letter,” she began, each word feeling heavier than the last. “And she caused trouble for people along the way. Her fish blasting damaged ships in Liyue, and she scorched fields as she traveled. The moment I saw that firework, I assumed she was making a new bomb…”

  Her fingers curled into her lap, gripping the fabric of her gloves.

  “I just… snapped.”

  Silence followed her confession.

  Yoimiya let out a deep sigh, shaking her head. “Did you even ask Klee about it?” Her voice held no harshness, but the disappointment in her tone stung all the same.

  Jean slowly raised her head, unsure of how to respond.

  Yoimiya continued, “She told me all about her travels. She was fish blasting in Liyue because there was a kid who couldn’t afford to eat, so she caught him food. The scorched field? That was because some Nobushi were planning to raid the village. She stopped them before they could hurt anyone.”

  Jean’s breath hitched.

  “She was smiling when she told me how she was helping people, just like Master Jean—” Yoimiya’s eyes hardened “—but now, look at her.”

  Jean didn’t need to look.

  She knew.

  Klee hadn’t spoken a single word since the moment Jean had thrown away her firework. The child who was always full of boundless energy and joy now sat motionless, staring blankly at the table in front of her.

  There was no emotion in her face. No spark in her crimson eyes.

  Just emptiness.

  Jean swallowed hard. The weight of her mistake settled fully onto her shoulders.

  “How—” her voice came out weaker than she expected. She swallowed again and tried once more.

  “How am I supposed to make this right?”

  Yoimiya crossed her arms, thinking for a moment before answering.

  “You need to gather some ingredients for me. I can remake the firework, but you’ll have to see just how much effort Klee put into making it.” She glanced at Klee. “Maybe then you’ll understand what it meant to her.”

  Paimon, who had been quiet for longer than usual, suddenly perked up. “We’ll help too!” she said, her voice firm with determination.

  Aether gave a silent nod of agreement.

  Just as a faint sense of direction began to settle over the group, a smooth, familiar voice cut through the tension like a blade.

  “Well, this isn’t something you see every day.”

  Everyone turned toward the source of the voice.

  Standing at the edge of the restaurant, one hand on his hip, was Kaeya. His signature smirk played at his lips, but his sharp gaze flickered between Jean and Klee with unmistakable scrutiny.

  Paimon gasped. “Kaeya?! When did you—? Oh, wait, Master Jean did say you went on ahead…”

  Kaeya took a step forward, the wooden floor creaking slightly beneath his boots. His eyes landed on Aether and Paimon first.

  “It’s been a while, Traveler. Paimon,” he greeted, his tone casual, but his focus quickly shifted.

  Then, he turned to Jean.

  His smirk softened—just a little—but the usual analytical sharpness in his expression remained.

  “It looks like you really did it this time, Jean.”

  Jean flinched.

  Kaeya wasn’t wrong. She had done it this time.

  And now, she had to fix it.

  Paimon tilted her head, floating closer to Kaeya with a skeptical look.

  “Wait… How did you get here, Kaeya? I thought Liyue Harbor’s dock was closed.”

  Kaeya’s smirk widened slightly as he crossed his arms. “Well, I did leave before Jean. You already know that much.” His gaze flickered toward the ocean before he continued, his tone as smooth as ever.

  “When I found out about the ships being held up, I took a detour through Sumeru and caught a ride from Port Ormos. The journey was longer, but I figured that by the time I arrived, Jean would have found some way to get here as well.” He shrugged, amusement lacing his words. “Seems I was right.”

  Paimon let out an exaggerated sigh, throwing her hands in the air. “Still as complicated as ever.”

  Kaeya chuckled, tilting his head at her. “It’s not complicated, Paimon. It’s called having a backup plan.”

  His expression softened slightly as his gaze shifted to Jean. She hadn’t spoken a word since Kaeya arrived, her mind still weighed down by what had happened with Klee. He studied her for a moment before speaking again.

  “Go with the Traveler and Paimon,” he said, his voice holding an unusual gentleness beneath the usual teasing. “I’ll stay with Klee.”

  Jean lifted her head, surprised.

  Kaeya turned his attention to Yoimiya. “Yoimiya, was it? Give them the list, and I’ll stay here with Klee.”

  Yoimiya nodded, retrieving a small parchment from her pocket and handing it to Aether. “You won’t be collecting raw materials themselves,” she explained. “We store everything in sealed packages—firework making is a closely guarded craft, after all. There are three packages in total, and you’ll need to go to Kannazuka to retrieve them.”

  She crossed her arms, glancing at Jean. “When you get there, you’ll meet someone who will give you the locations of each package. We keep things scattered so no one can figure out our exact formula.”

  Jean exhaled slowly, nodding as she finally stood.

  “…Understood.”

  She started toward the door, her movements still stiff, but with a newfound determination.

  Paimon quickly floated after her, calling out, “We know the way, so just follow us, Master Jean!”

  Aether followed behind in silence, stealing a quick glance over his shoulder.

  Kaeya had already taken a seat next to Klee, who still hadn’t spoken. His usual playful smirk was gone, replaced by something quieter—something more thoughtful.

  With one last look at them, Aether stepped forward, catching up with Jean and Paimon as they left to begin their task.

  The journey wasn’t over yet.

  As the three of them traveled, Paimon did her best to lighten the mood, floating ahead with exaggerated enthusiasm.

  “Look over there! That’s where the Traveler took down not one, but three Fatui at the same time!” she announced dramatically, pointing to a seemingly ordinary clearing.

  Jean offered only a small nod in response, her gaze distant. Paimon, undeterred, continued on, rattling off more stories of Aether’s heroics, her voice bright against the heavy silence that followed them.

  The journey wasn’t without its challenges. Fatui agents lurked along the road, and wandering enemies ambushed them at inopportune moments. But the fights were brief—Aether, sharp and precise, cut through them with practiced ease.

  By the time they retrieved the final package and made their way back to Yoimiya, the air between them felt less tense but still weighed down by unspoken words.

  Yoimiya took the packages without a word, slipping inside her workshop and closing the door behind her. The muffled clatter of tools followed soon after.

  Kaeya stepped forward, his ever-present smirk subdued as he approached Jean. His voice, though still laced with its usual ease, carried something deeper beneath the surface.

  “You know, Jean… it’s not like you to lose your composure like that,” he said, his gaze sharp yet unreadable. “Klee told me what happened—but only after she found out you were going to fix the firework.” He tilted his head slightly. “That tells me she still trusts you, despite everything.”

  Jean flinched, just barely, but Kaeya caught it.

  Paimon opened her mouth to speak, but before she could, Aether gave a subtle shake of his head. A silent message.

  This conversation wasn’t meant for them.

  Jean took a slow breath before finally speaking, her voice quieter than usual.

  “Alice left Klee in the care of the Knights of Favonius,” she murmured. “As the Acting Grand Master, it’s my responsibility to take care of her.”

  Kaeya let out a heavy sigh, shaking his head.

  “There you go again, Jean,” he said. “Always acting like it’s only your responsibility.” He crossed his arms, his tone firm but not unkind. “You just said it yourself—Klee was left in the care of the Knights of Favonius. That means all of us.”

  Jean’s fingers curled into her gloves.

  “We all take turns looking after her. So stop acting like that’s the real reason you snapped.”

  At that, Paimon finally had enough.

  “Hey!” she huffed, floating between them with a glare. “She’s the Acting Grand Master! She’s got a lot on her mind and a ton of duties! Of course, she’s just trying to take care of Klee the best she can!”

  Kaeya, unfazed, turned his gaze toward Paimon.

  “I’m not being harsh,” he said simply. “I just want Jean to be honest with herself.”

  Aether remained silent, recalling Zhongli’s words—“I see. You care for her deeply” —“More often than not, children pursue what fascinates them, but Klee specifically said she wants Master Jean to see why she loves explosions. While most children seek out others who share their interests, Klee is taking a different approach.”

  Jean had always been composed, and controlled… but what did her actions really say about how she treated Klee?

  Then, as the answer clicked into place, Aether spoke—not loudly, but just enough for everyone to hear.

  “…You see her as your own family.”

  A pause.

  Jean’s breath hitched ever so slightly, her fingers tightening at her sides.

  Kaeya, ever the opportunist, grinned as he clapped his hands together.

  “See, Paimon?” he said, a glint of satisfaction in his eyes. “The Traveler gets it.”

  Jean didn’t reply. But for the first time since they arrived, her shoulders didn’t seem quite as heavy.

  Paimon opened her mouth, ready to say something—anything—to break the silence, but before she could, the door to Yoimiya’s workshop creaked open.

  Yoimiya stepped out, a brand-new firework cradled carefully in her hands. Behind her, Klee followed, her footsteps slow but more assured than before. She was still quiet, but the heavy dejection that had clouded her before had eased, even if just a little.

  Yoimiya knelt, gently placing the firework into Klee’s small hands before turning her gaze to Jean.

  “This firework is for you, Jean,” she said, her voice firm yet kind. “You need to be with her when she sets it off.”

  Jean hesitated for only a moment before nodding. Without a word, she followed Klee toward the shoreline.

  Paimon instinctively moved to follow, but before she could float after them, Aether shook his head. A small, quiet gesture—one that said, This isn’t our place.

  So, they remained behind. Watching.

  Yoimiya, Kaeya, Aether, and Paimon stood in the fading light as Jean and Klee walked ahead, the sound of the waves growing louder as they approached the shore.

  Neither spoke.

  Jean didn’t know what to say, and Klee, for once, wasn’t filling the silence with excited chatter. But something about it felt right.

  Jean remembered Zhongli’s words—“There are emotions, thoughts, and feelings she may not yet have the words to express. Instead, she communicates in the ways she understands best—through actions rather than words.”

  So, she stayed quiet.

  The sun had begun its descent, painting the sky in deep shades of orange and violet. As the world darkened, the firework would shine all the brighter.

  Klee knelt, carefully setting up the firework, her movements deliberate and focused. Jean watched as she lit the fuse, stepping back with practiced ease. But instead of turning to the sky, Jean caught a glimpse of something in Klee’s hands—a folded piece of paper.

  Then, with a sharp whistle, the firework shot into the sky.

  The moment stretched, the hush of anticipation thick in the air before—

  Boom!

  The explosion lit up the darkening sky in brilliant hues of red and gold. But it wasn’t just light and color—there, glowing vividly against the night, were two simple words:

  Big Sis.

  Jean’s breath caught.

  Slowly, she turned to Klee.

  The little girl held up a crayon drawing—messy and colorful, filled with wobbly lines and uneven shading. It showed Alice, Klee, Jean, Barbara, and Dodoco, all holding hands.

  But what struck Jean wasn’t the drawing itself—it was Klee’s face.

  Tears streamed freely down her flushed cheeks, her nose running, her wide, hopeful smile trembling at the edges. She was an absolute mess.

  And yet, Jean had never seen anything braver.

  Through her tears, Klee looked up at her, voice small but steady.

  “Can I call you Big Sis Jean?”

  Jean’s heart clenched, warmth flooding her chest in a way she hadn’t expected.

  This wasn’t just a child’s simple request. This was Klee asking for something deeper.

  A family.

  A place to belong.

  A connection that would never waver.

  Jean’s breath trembled as she tried to steady herself, but the emotions swelling in her chest were too much. Tears welled in her eyes, slipping down her cheeks before she could stop them.

  She knelt beside Klee, her voice thick with emotion as she reached out, gently pulling the little girl into a tight embrace.

  “Of course, you can,” Jean whispered, her words carrying the weight of a promise—a bond unspoken yet unbreakable.

  Behind them, Aether, Kaeya, Yoimiya, and Paimon stood in quiet observation, the scene before them sinking deep into their hearts.

  Paimon, for all her usual chatter, was at a loss for words. She sniffled loudly, rubbing at her eyes as Yoimiya leaned over and explained the deeper meaning behind the firework. The moment the realization hit, Paimon’s face scrunched up, and fresh tears spilled over.

  “So in the end… they both see each other as family,” she murmured, her voice wavering.

  Aether nodded, his gaze soft as he watched the two figures by the shoreline.

  Kaeya let out a low chuckle, folding his arms as he spoke. “That’s right, Paimon. They’re both a little clumsy when it comes to their emotions. It just took them some time to get it out.”

  Yoimiya, still smiling, crossed her arms and looked toward the night sky, where the firework’s message had begun to fade but still lingered faintly in the dark.

  “You know,” she mused, her tone light yet thoughtful, “this might be the start of a new tradition in Inazuma. Instead of just sending feelings through fireworks, we could send messages, too. Something meaningful, something people can look up to and remember.” She turned toward the others, eyes bright with inspiration. “It’s actually kind of beautiful, don’t you think?”

  Aether glanced at Jean and Klee one last time, watching as Klee nestled into Jean’s embrace, her small arms wrapping tightly around her.

  A soft smile touched his lips.

  “It sure is,” he said.