Markus's Best Friend
Markus is about to exit the Knights of Favonius's headquarters, after giving his report of his morning patrol, when he's stopped by someone shouting for his attention from behind him.

"Markus, Markus! Over here, quick!"

Markus turns around, and sees that Klee is in "Solitary Confinement"... again.

Klee: "Markus, please let Klee out! Before Miss... er, Master Jean comes back!"

Markus: He sighs. "I'm sorry, but I can't do that. It's not like Si-... er, Master Jean puts you in there for no good reason..."

Klee: "I already told her, Klee thought that guy with the weird hair I bombed was a Hilichurl!"

Markus: "He was standing in the middle of the plaza, Klee! And... he definitely doesn't have his 'weird hair' anymore, after what you did to him..."

Klee: "Klee didn't mean to hurt someone! Besides, I have a really, really important thing to do today!"

Markus: "And, what would that be?"

Klee: "The Windblume Festival is coming up, right? Klee wants to buy people flowers! I saved up a bunch of Mora for them and everything!"

Markus: "R-really?" He says in surprise, not expecting her to have a genuinely good excuse for wanting to get out.

Klee: "Yes! So, please let Klee out from Solitary Confinement! Pretty, pretty please?"

Markus: "I-I mean... I get it, but... I don't even have the authority to let you out. And it's not like someone that does will conveniently come by before Master Jean gets back..."

Kaeya, the Cavalry Captain of the Knights of Favonius, aka someone with the authority to let Klee out of Solitary Confinement, conveniently walks by immediately after Markus says this.

Klee: "Mister Kaeya! Could you please let Klee..."

Kaeya: "... out of Solitary Confinement? Well, if it's for the important reason of buying everyone flowers for the Windblume Festival, then of course I'll let you out, Klee!"

Markus: "Wait, how did you know about that? Were you listening to our conversation, Kaeya?"

Kaeya: "No, it was just a lucky guess."

Kaeya unlocks and opens the door to let Klee out, and she proceeds to jump up and hug him in appreciation.

Klee: "Thank you sooo much for letting Klee out, Mister Kaeya! You're the best~! I'll definitely get you a flower as thanks!"

Kaeya: "What, were you not going to get me one before I let you out?" He laughs, gently setting Klee back on the ground. "Anyway, speaking of the Windblume Festival, why don't we all go down to Floral Whisper to buy flowers together?"

Markus: "Are you sure you're not just suggesting that so you have an excuse to slack off?" He questions, raising an eyebrow.

Kaeya: "What, of course not! The Windblume Festival is an important time for every citizen of Mond, is it not?" He smirks. "Besides, I'm sure even Master Jean would agree that everyone needs some time to relax every once in a while, right? And what better way to do so than by walking through the city on such a beautiful day, enjoying the company of your fellow Knights of Favonius?"

Markus: "Uh huh." He utters, shrugging his shoulders and shaking his head. "Well, whatever. I guess I do have some free time in-between patrols, anyway..."

Klee: "Yay~! In that case, let's go!"

--

The three of them head down to Floral Whisper, and take a look at all the colored flowers on display for the Windblume Festival.

Kaeya: "Say, you two. Did you know that every flower holds a special meaning during Windblume, depending on the color of the one you offer as a gift?"

Klee: "No, Klee didn't know that!" She turns to Markus. "Did you know that, Markus?"

Markus: "Yeah, you already taught me about it before, Kaeya..."

Kaeya: "Oh, did I? In that case, do you remember the meaning of each one?"

Markus: "Uh, I think? Let's see... I believe the purple ones are meant as a 'courtesy' gift, for close acquaintances and such. The yellow ones are for friends, the pink ones are for family members, and the red ones are for... romantic partners?"

Klee: "Ooh, red? Klee's never gotten one of those from anyone before!"

Markus: "And I sure hope you don't for a looong time..."

Kaeya: "Red, huh? I've received plenty of those over the years."

Markus and Klee both reel back in shock upon hearing that, causing Kaeya to chuckle.

Kaeya: "Only joking... or am I?"

Markus: "Honestly, I'd... rather not know..."

Kaeya: "Markus, are you the type that secretly wishes a beautiful girl would suddenly approach you and gift you a red flower during Windblume?"

Markus: "W-where did that come from?!" He stammers, his cheeks and ears flushing red.

Kaeya: "Not denying it? Does that mean I was right?" He snickers.

Markus: "M-murgh..." He pouts, shaking his head. "Klee, can you please help change the subject?"

Klee: "Mister Kaeya, Markus, is there a bestest friend flower?"

Markus: "Thank you."

Kaeya: "A... 'bestest friend' flower?"

Klee: "Yes! Klee thinks there should definitely be a bestest friend one!"

Kaeya: "Hm... no, I don't believe so."

Markus: "Who would you give it to if there was one, Klee?"

Klee: "Um..." She scratches her head, thinking about it carefully. "There's a lot of people Klee likes, but... I'd probably give it to... Diona! Yeah, Klee would give it to her!"

Markus: "Diona, huh?"

Klee: "Oh, and Dodoco too, of course! Klee can have two bestest friends, right?"

Kaeya: "Aw, you wouldn't give one to either of us? What a shame." He says with a laugh.

Klee: "What about you, Mister Kaeya? Who would you give it to?"

Kaeya: "Well... What about you, Markus?"

Markus: "H-hey, don't deflect the question over to me!"

Klee: "Heehee, that's a silly question! Klee already knows who Markus's bestest friend is!"

Markus: "Huh, you do?"

He questions, trying to think about it carefully himself.

Markus: "Barb is my sister, Rosaria and Lisa are more like big si-... e-er, they're ones I look up to a lot, and Amber..." He pauses, frowning. "I see her more like... a senior co-worker than a 'bestest friend'..."

Kaeya: "Oh dear, do you not have any close friends at all, Markus? How sad..."

Markus: "Shut it, Kaeya."

Kaeya: "No need to get so angry, I was merely offering my condolences to you."

Markus: "Uh huh..." He utters, rolling his eyes.

Klee: "You two are so silly!" She giggles. "Are you trying to play a prank on me?"

Kaeya: "I really don't know, but I am curious. Mind telling me, Klee?"

Markus: "I'd like to know too, because I have no idea myself..."

Klee: "Markus's closest, bestest friend is Albedo! Duh! Klee knows~!"

Markus: "A-Albedo?!"

Kaeya: "Albedo, eh? Interesting... I knew you two got along, but I had no idea you were that close."

Klee: "Well, it's true, right Markus?"

Markus: "U-uh..." He stutters, too embarrassed to admit that she might be right. "It's... complicated..."

Klee: "Hey, I know! If there isn't any here, then we should go look for some at Windrise and pick those to be bestest friend flowers! Then Klee could give them to Diona and Dodoco, and Markus can give one to Albedo!"

Kaeya: "Excellent idea, Klee! I'll help you both look for them as well, it's been a while since I've taken a stroll around there anyway."

Markus: "So, this is all going to happen regardless of what I say, isn't it?" He sighs. "Ugh, whatever, fine. Let's go..."

Klee: "Heheh, by the way mister Kaeya, do you know that Klee is the one who asked Markus to be friends with Albedo?" She tells him as they walk towards the main city's gate to head out. "They're bestest friends because of me~!"

Kaeya: "Oh, is that so? I didn't know that."

Markus: "Come to think of it, I guess you're right. It's already been a couple months since I first met him..."

~~

A couple months ago...

Markus walks by the Alchemy Lab, and notices it's been destroyed... again.

Markus: "Timaeus, what happened this time...?"

Timaeus: "Good day to you, Outrider Markus! The lab got destroyed during one of our tests, but... not to worry! Master Albedo managed to secure the funds to have it rebuilt right away!" He says, in a cheery mood despite everything.

Markus: "Albedo... As in, the Captain of the Knights of Favonius's Investigation Team?"

Timaeus: "He's not just the Captain of the Investigation Team, he's also the head of this lab! Er, before it got destroyed anyway..."

Markus: "Huh, is that so? I've heard about him a couple times, but I've never actually met him before..."

Timaeus: "Really? He's a very impressive alchemist. I don't know anyone who holds a candle to him in comparison, especially myself!"

Markus: "Uh, I don't know much of anything about alchemy, so I'm not sure how amazing that is..." He sighs. "Anyway, the lab getting constantly blown up has been causing quite a ruckus to everyone else in the city, have you considered rebuilding it somewhere else?"

Timaeus: "Well, having it here is pretty convenient, as it's so close to our store, but we actually have been discussing relocating it..."

"Klee didn't blow up the lab! I had nothing to do with it this time, I swear!"

Klee suddenly comes rushing towards Markus in a panic.

Klee: "It wasn't Klee's fault, please don't report me to Miss Jean, Markus! I..."

Markus: "Whoa, whoa, calm down, Klee!" He waves his hands in front of her nervously. "I know what happened, Timaeus already told me."

Klee: "... Oh. Okay, heehee!" She scratches the back of her head in relief, then turns her attention to Timaeus. "Mister Timaeus, do you know if Albedo is here right now?"

Timaeus: "No, he left a while ago. I think he said he was headed to... Starsnatch Cliff today?"

Klee: "Darn, Klee had something to give him!" She pouts. "That's too bad..."

Markus: "You know Albedo, Klee?"

Klee: "What? Of course I do, he's like my big brother~!"

Markus: "H-huh, really?!" He exclaims in surprise. "Since when did you have someone that's like a big brother to you? Other than me, I guess..."

Klee: "I don't know where he came from, but Mommy brought him to Mond a long while ago!"

Markus: "Aunti-... er, Miss Alice did? I didn't know that..."

Klee: "Yeah! Did Klee never tell you?"

Markus: "No, you never did!"

Klee: "Oh, whoops!" She giggles. "Have you not met him before?"

Markus: "I haven't. I've.... never had a reason to talk to him..."

Klee: She suddenly gasps. "Wait! Klee has the greatest idea! Markus, could you deliver the thing I want to give to Albedo for me? Then you can meet him!"

Markus: "U-uh..."

Klee: "Pretty please?"

Markus: "A-ah... alright, I guess. My next patrol should be near Starsnatch Cliff anyway..."

Klee: "Yay, thank you so much!" She bounces up and down in glee. "Oh, and can Klee ask you one more thing?"

Markus: "Sure, what is it?"

Klee: "It's just... Albedo doesn't have many friends, and Klee thinks it'd be nice if he had more to talk to about stuff, y'know? Maybe... you could be his friend, Markus?"

Markus: "I don't know... I've never met him, so..."

Timaeus: "I don't think that'd be a bad idea, actually." He nods in agreement. "I work with him a lot, but he tends to keep to himself most of the time. So it's a bit awkward for anyone to approach him for casual conversation... myself included."

Markus: "Is... that so? Then I doubt I'd be able to pull it off either, with my lack of knowledge on his work..."

Timaeus: "No, I think the opposite might be true. Getting someone to talk to him outside of his work might be just what he needs. Especially someone like you that's around the same age as him."

Markus: "Huh? Wait, is he really that young?"

Timaeus: "Yep... I think."

Markus: "You... think?"

Timaeus: "Yes. You're almost 16, right Markus? He's about... a year older than you? I think..."

Markus: "You... think?" He utters again, raising an eyebrow.

Timaeus: "Uh... yeah. Anyway, I'm sure it'll be fine... probably."

Markus: He sighs. "I'm feeling a bit uneasy about this now, but since Klee asked me, I'll at least try and give it a shot..."

--

After a good amount of trekking, Markus nears the top of Starsnatch Cliff, where he spots someone calmly painting. He takes a look at a photo Timaeus gave him, and the person on it matches the painter.

Markus: "So, that's him?" He questions, thinking to himself. "I don't know much about alchemy, but it has nothing to do with painting, does it? Ah, whatever."

He walks towards him slowly, trying not to startle him. However, he notices Markus's presence and turns his head to face him before Markus says anything.

Markus: "O-oh, uh... sorry to bother you!" He laughs nervously. "I... um... You're Albedo, right?"

Albedo: "That's correct. Can I help you?"

Albedo sets down his brush at his canvas and slowly gets up from the stool he was sitting on.

Albedo: "Wait a moment, you're... one of the Outriders, are you not? I've seen the both of you run out of the city in a hurry to go patrolling every morning."

Markus: "O-oh, yeah. That's right, I'm an Outrider."

Albedo: "Hm... I believe I've heard many good things about you in particular. You haven't been an Outrider for long, but you've done a lot to help out the citizens of Mond already."

Markus: "H-huh, me?!" He blushes in embarrassment, looking away and scratching the back of his head. "N-no, I'm not... not really..."

Albedo: "You're... Amber, correct?"

Markus: "Uh... what?" He shrugs in disbelief. "Um, no? Amber's my senior, I'm Markus."

Albedo: "That was my second guess."

Markus: "Of course that was your second guess, there's only two of us!"

Albedo: "Well, it was a 50-50 shot."

Markus: "Amber's a girl's name, and I'm clearly a boy!"

Albedo: "Anyhow, Outrider Markus, is there something you needed from me?"

Markus: "So, you're just going to change the subject, huh?" He sighs, shaking his head. "Eh, forget it. Klee wanted me to give something to you if I found you."

Albedo: "Klee did?" He questions, as he watches Markus take something out of his satchel.

Markus: "Yeah. Here you go."

He hands him a well-used notebook. Albedo takes it and immediately examines its contents.

Albedo: "I see... These are... 'blueprints' for her Jumpty Dumpties."

Markus: "Jumpty... what now...?" He pauses. "Oh, right. Her explosive... things."

Albedo: "I'd already told Klee to show this to Sucrose or Timaeus instead, especially if I wasn't around, but no matter. Thank you for bringing this to me."

Markus: "D-don't mention it..."

Albedo: "Was that all? Good day to you, then."

He immediately turns his attention back to his canvas after saying this.

Markus: "W-wait, actually, there was one more thing..."

Albedo slowly glances over at Markus, raising an eyebrow. Markus pauses, struggling a bit on what he's about to say.

Albedo: "Yes? What is it?" He cuts in, a tad impatiently.

Markus: "U-uh, well, heheh..." He blushes lightly, scratching his cheek. "So, Klee told me... you don't have... many friends to talk to about stuff, I guess? She told me maybe I should..."

Albedo: "Pay no mind to what she says. It's none of your concern, Outrider Markus." He cuts him off a second time, once again turning his attention back to his canvas.

Markus: "Hey, that's pretty rude, Klee was surely just looking out for you!" He snaps a bit at him.

Albedo: He sighs. "That's not what I meant. I'm... simply not the type of person who needs anything like close friends."

Markus: "So what, are you the loner type or something?"

Albedo: "... I suppose that's close enough." He utters silently, still not looking at Markus, so he's unable to tell what expression Albedo's currently making.

Markus: "It doesn't seem he has much interest in talking with me further. I was kind of a loner myself before I met Amber, so I'm not sure how to tackle this..." He thinks to himself. "I'd feel bad about going back to Klee without having done what she asked of me, though..."

He looks over at the painting that Albedo has been working on.

Markus: "U-um, that's... quite the interesting painting!" He stammers, desperately trying to continue making conversation.

Albedo: "You haven't left yet." He says dryly.

Markus: "No, no I haven't..."

Albedo sighs again, moving over a bit on his stool in order to allow Markus a closer look.

Markus: "It's a... painting of Hilichurls?" He tilts his head, visibly puzzled.

Albedo: "Indeed. And some slimes as well." He nods, not looking away from his canvas. "I noticed them near the base of the cliff before I made my way up here, and decided they'd be a good subject for my painting."

Markus: "I-I see..."

Albedo: "Tell me Markus, what is your opinion of this painting? What do you think of when you look at this?"

Markus: "You mean... what do I think is the deeper meaning behind it?"

Albedo: "Something like that."

Markus: "U-uh, let's see..." He scratches his head, deep in thought. "Hm..."

Markus has a hard time coming up with an answer. The expression on Albedo's face as he waits is neutral enough that it's hard to tell whether he's being calm and patient, or annoyed that Markus is taking so long.

Albedo: "Well?"

Markus: "U-um, maybe... it's meant to represent... A rarely seen moment of calm and peace between monsters? One you wouldn't normally see?" He stammers as he answers. "L-like, another perspective you wouldn't normally think of?"

Albedo: "Hm... interesting. I didn't expect that response..."

Markus: "Really? What's the meaning behind the painting, then?"

Albedo: "There wasn't one. I wasn't thinking about anything in particular when I painted this."

Markus: "Why did you make it seem like there was some deeper meaning, then?!"

Albedo: "I was just curious about what you'd say if I asked."

Markus: "Ugh, what?" He places his hand on his face in disbelief. "Seriously, what's with this guy...?"

Albedo: "Tell me... if someone asked you to try and befriend a monster, would you?" He glances towards him as he asks, not moving his head.

Markus: "H-huh?" He utters in surprise by the sudden, strange question. "What do you mean... befriend a monster?"

Albedo: "..." He sighs, glancing away from him once again. "Never mind. Forget I mentioned it."

Albedo stands, slowly gathering up his canvas, stool, and other painting supplies.

Albedo: "I've already finished my painting, so I'll be taking my leave. I'm assuming you're currently in the middle of a patrol, Outrider Markus? I won't distract you from your duties any longer."

He turns around without saying or waving goodbye (not that he can do the latter, as his arms are full). Markus silently watches him head down the cliff, not attempting to try and talk to him further this time.

Markus: "What was that about? Why did he ask me that question? He almost seemed... disappointed that I couldn't come up with a proper answer..."

--

The next day, Albedo is in a clearing somewhere near Springvale this time, surrounded by a couple small tables he's set up outside. Various materials and objects are scattered across the tables, which he seems to be conducting some sort of alchemy experiment on.

Markus: "Hello there, Albedo." He waves in greeting as he approaches him, trying to sound casual.

Albedo: "Oh... it's you again." He glances over at the Outrider, with his typical calm, unreadable face.

Markus: "Yep, it's me again."

Albedo: "What brings you here?"

Markus: "U-uh... oh, I just happened to be here on my patrol. What a coincidence I ran into you again!"

Albedo: "..."

Markus: "... Didn't buy it, huh?"

Albedo: "No."

Markus: "Yeah, fair enough..." He looks away nervously, scratching the back of his head.

Albedo: "Let me guess, you asked Timaeus where I'd be today, hoping for another chance to fulfill Klee's request?"

Markus: "Gurgh..." He mutters, still avoiding Albedo's gaze.

Albedo: "That was quite the sound you just made. It seems I was spot on."

He turns his attention back to what he was busy with earlier, making it quite clear that he has no interest in humoring Markus again.

Markus: "U-um, so... what are you working on this time...?"

Albedo: "I believe I've already mentioned I have no need for close friends." He glances back at Markus. "I'm not trying to be rude, and I appreciate your attempt to honor what Klee asked of you. But... please just give up already. I'll talk to her later today if you'd like."

Markus: "..."

Albedo: "So, if you wouldn't mind, please..."

Markus: "U-um, no! That's not why I'm here!" He blurts out, suddenly cutting him off.

Albedo: "Oh? Why are you here, then?"

Markus: "Uh... morbid curiosity?"

Albedo: "..."

Markus: "... Didn't buy it, huh?"

Albedo: He sighs. "Very well, then. If you truly are here to 'satisfy your curiosity', I suppose I could ask for your opinion on my experiment while you're here."

Markus looks over at one of the tables, raising an eyebrow.

Markus: "Um, why is there so much... fruit gathered here?"

Albedo: "Do you like fruits, Markus?"

Markus: "Oh yeah, I like them a lot. Sunsettias are my absolute favorite!" He answers with a small smile and a light blush.

Albedo: "Is that so? Then your opinion might prove even more valuable than I first thought..."

Markus: "Hm?"

Albedo: "I'm assuming you're a fan of sweet foods, correct?"

Markus: His eyes go wide, taking a step back in surprise. "U-uh, yes. How did you...?!"

Albedo: "It's nothing very shocking. Sunsettias are among the sweetest fruits found in Mond. If they're your favorite, then you must have quite the sweet tooth."

Markus: "T-that... does make sense. Still, the fact you gathered that just from me telling you they're my favorite is..." He blushes a bit deeper, this time in embarrassment.

Albedo picks up one of the fruits and hands in over to Markus.

Albedo: "Here, take a bite out of this."

Markus: "Huh? An apple?" He accepts it, eyeing it curiously. "It's fine for me to have this? You don't need it for your... experiment?"

Albedo: "You eating it is part of my experiment. At least, it should provide useful data."

Markus: "I don't really get it, but... okay?" He takes a small bite, then immediately recoils in surprise after tasting it. "H-hm?"

Albedo: "Oh? Was the taste unpleasant?"

Markus: "N-no, I wouldn't say that... In fact, it actually tasted good, but..." He responds after swallowing the small bite he took. "Uh... this is an apple, right?"

Albedo: "Technically yes. However, I performed an alchemical modification on it, to give it the taste of a Sunsettia."

Markus: "W-what?! Seriously?" He stares at it in shock. "Alchemy can do that?!"

Albedo: "Of course. It's not especially complicated either, least not on a conceptual level."

Markus: "I-I see..." He continues to stare at the 'apple' he's holding in disbelief. "That being said, though..."

Albedo: "Is something wrong?"

Markus: "Well, if it's supposed to taste like a Sunsettia, it doesn't quite match its flavor exactly..."

Albedo: "Hm, interesting..."

Markus: "I-I mean... I don't mean that in a bad way! It's still very close! It's really impressive! I-I just..."

Albedo: "No, it's quite alright. That's useful information, thank you Markus."

He goes over to another table, grabbing a clipboard to jot something down on it... but then he suddenly stops.

Albedo: "Do you find it frightening?" He asks without looking at Markus.

Markus: "Hm? Find what frightening?"

Albedo: "Alchemy. I was able to give that apple a flavor... it's not supposed to."

Markus: "Well, I still don't really get how alchemy works, but... I think that's kind of cool, actually!" He responds, his eyes lighting up with genuine interest.

Albedo: "'Cool', huh? What an... interesting response..."

While Albedo begins to write down the results of his experiment on his clipboard, Markus slowly approaches him.

Markus: "Um, so... what made you decide to work on that fruit experiment, anyway?"

Albedo: "I wouldn't say I had a specific reason to work on it in particular. However..." He pauses, turning his full attention to the Outrider. "Say Markus, have you ever wondered why some things in this world are the way they are?"

Markus: "Hm? What do you mean?"

Albedo: "For example, let's take the Sunsettia..." He picks one up and holds it in front of Markus. "Normally, they are all sweet, have a distinct soft texture, and have this yellow-orange coloring... But why is that? Have you ever stopped to question such things?"

Markus: "Er... no? Not really? That's how they all just... are, right?"

Albedo: "I suppose I'm not surprised you see things that way. You seem... awfully simple-minded."

Markus: "Wait, what's that supposed to mean? Are you trying to insult me?" He crosses his arms, pouting slightly.

Albedo: "It was merely an observation. Anyway." He continues on to his earlier point. "Those kind of questions are a large reason for my interest in alchemy. I want to discover more about such matters concerning this world, about its hidden structures, and why even the most simplest of things exist in the manner they do..."

Markus: "I see..."

Albedo: "Do you truly?"

Markus: "... No. No, I don't."

Albedo lets out a long, drawn out sigh before he continues.

Albedo: "What defines something as what they are? For example, what makes someone a human being? Is it their physical form, or how they live? If something copied the appearance of a human, or acted in the manner of a human, would that being not also be a human as well?"

Markus: "Uh... what?"

Albedo: "I suppose it's natural for you not to have asked yourself that before. You're used to living as a human being, so it should be clear to you what one is without thinking much about it."

Markus: "Huh? But then that'd be the same for you, right? You're a human too, after all..."

Albedo: "..."

Markus: "...?"

Albedo turns away from Markus, down at the table in front of him.

Albedo: "Yes, I suppose you're right..."

Markus: "Uh... Albedo?"

Albedo: "I apologize. I imagine all this talk must sound quite boring to someone like you, correct?"

Markus: "N-no, that's not true! I don't really get it, but..."

Albedo: "It's alright. You don't need to try and humor me."

Markus: "I-I'm not!" He assures him. "To tell you the truth, I thought you were kind of... odd, and hard to read at first, but... You're actually a pretty interesting guy, Albedo!" He says with a smile.

Albedo: "Is that so?" He looks back at Markus again. "You're not just pretending you feel that way in an attempt to honor Klee's request to 'befriend me', are you?"

Markus: "It's not out of obligation... anymore, at least. I'd definitely like to come by and see one of your alchemy experiments again... if that's alright with you."

Albedo: "Hm... if you truly are interested, I suppose I wouldn't mind another one of your visits." He gives him a faint smile of his own as well.

--

Over the course of the next few days, Markus makes an effort to look for Albedo when he gets the chance. Sometimes to see what he's working on next, or even just to talk and get to know him better. As they interact more and more, not only does Markus become closer to Albedo, but, surprisingly, Albedo begins to slowly open up to him as well, especially as he appreciates Markus's growing interest in his alchemy work. And while Markus still finds Albedo rather... unique, he also finds him fascinating in his own way.

Before long, it becomes clear that Markus is no longer just doing this as some sort of favor for Klee. Now, he genuinely desires to be Albedo's friend.

Today, as usual, Markus heads for the slowly-but-surely-being-rebuilt Alchemy Lab, Timaeus his typical, chipper self.

Timaeus: "Greetings, Markus! You want to know where Master Albedo went today, right?"

Markus: "Yeah. Thanks as always for letting me know."

Timaeus: "No problem! I'm just glad you and Albedo seem to be getting along! It's great that he's found someone to..."

"Hey."

They hear someone suddenly cut in with an icy, sharp tone. They both turn to see Rosaria standing there with her arms crossed, practically glaring at Markus.

Markus: "Rosaria? What are you doing here?" He questions, caught off guard, clearly not expecting to encounter her in a place like this. "Why do you look so... peeved?"

Rosaria: "I heard you've been spending a lot of time around that alchemist."

Markus: "If you mean Albedo, then yes, I have. Why?"

Timaeus: "Oh right, I forgot that she asked me about that the other day. She was wondering why you've been getting back from some of your patrols later than..."

Rosaria cuts Timaeus off again and walks past him without even looking at him, her harsh gaze remaining on Markus.

Rosaria: "I'm only going to say this once. Stay away from him."

Markus: "H-huh?!" He begins to meet her glare with one of his own, becoming slightly irritated. "What are you talking about? What's with you?!"

Rosaria: "Shut up. Just do as I say."

Markus looks at her in confusion, wondering why she's acting so strange. But instead of asking her about it, he gives her a crooked smirk.

Markus: "What, are you worried about me or something? I'm flattered, but there's no need to concern yourself with anything I'm doing." He tells her, trying to seem unbothered by her gaze. "People say Albedo is rather... eccentric, but..."

Rosaria: "This isn't a joke, Markus. I'm being serious!" She exclaims, her glare even harsher now.

Markus: "What's your problem?! You're not normally this... brash."

Rosaria: She takes a deep breath, calming down a little. "For your own sake, I'd suggest taking my warning seriously."

Markus: "Could I at least ask why?"

Rosaria: "... There are things in this world that you're better off not knowing about." She leaves off before turning around and making her way back to the cathedral, leaving a heavy silence in the air for a while.

Timaeus: "U-um... I wonder what that was about...?" He eventually says, quite uneasily as he notices the sour expression on Markus's face. "You live at the cathedral, right? Is she... always like that? I heard she can be pretty scary..."

Markus: "N-no, she... She's not exactly... like that. Rosaria can come across as quite cold, but she's actually a fairly kind and trustworthy person. At least, she's not the type to order others around or get in their business like that." He shakes his head, having a hard time believing what just happened. "At least not with me... Seriously, why would she...?!"

Timaeus: "W-well, I don't know why she said all that, but from my experience, Albedo is a pretty nice guy..."

Markus: He laughs lightly, his mood improving. "Yeah, I'm well aware of that now. Still, thank you, Timaeus."

Timaeus: "Don't mention it. Now, about where he went... Today he..."

"I haven't left yet."

Markus and Timaeus glance over at the second person to show up and cut in, this time being Albedo.

Timaeus: "Oh, Master Albedo! I thought I saw you leave through the main gate a couple minutes ago. You said you were headed to Dragonspine, correct?"

Albedo: "Correct." He confirms with a nod. "However, I realized I'd forgotten to... pick something up on the way out."

Markus: "Dragonspine?" He questions.

Albedo: "Yes, it's a large, frigid mountain south of the city."

Markus: "Um, I know what Dragonspine is." He crosses his arms. "I was wondering why you wanted to go to a place like that in particular..."

Timaeus: "He has a separate work station there, where he actually conducts most his alchemy experiments."

Markus: "'Most'? Is that why it's so hard to find you sometimes?"

Albedo: "Perhaps."

Markus: "But... why there? Isn't it, y'know, cold up there?"

Albedo: "... I simply prefer to conduct my experiments away from the lab at times."

Markus: "Why, because it's always blowing up?" He raises an eyebrow, gives him a light smirk.

Albedo stifles a laugh with his hand, before quickly regaining his composure.

Timaeus: "H-hey, the lab doesn't blow up that much..."

Albedo: "But you are often the cause of all the... explosions."

Timaeus: "Sorry, I'm still rather inexperienced..." He chuckles nervously, scratching the back of his head. "In all seriousness, Master Albedo told me Dragonspine is special to him."

Markus: "Special? Really?"

Albedo: "..."

Timaeus: "Yes, partially because it's the perfect place for him to be... alone. Come to think of it, he hasn't told many others about his Dragonspine work station... Does this mean..." He pauses, then gasps. "W-wait, is this your way of telling Markus you're getting tired of him coming to visit you so often?"

Markus: "Darn. What a shame..." He shrugs, pretending he's gravely disappointed by the news. "Oh well, it was fun while it lasted, I guess..."

Albedo: He snickers a bit at Markus's response. "No, it's quite the opposite. The 'something' I came back for was actually you, Markus. I plan on taking you with me today."

Markus: "So, I've been reduced to a something now, huh...?"

Timaeus: "W-what?!" He exclaims, loud enough that it startles Markus. "A-are you serious, Master Albedo? To think you two have grown that close..."

Markus: "Whuh? I-is it really that big of a deal?!"

Timaeus: "Of course it is! As I mentioned earlier, it's not a location he's told many people about, as it easily allows him to work in solitude. Especially since Dragonspine is quite cold, and his work station there is rather hidden away. So for him to invite you, when you're not even a studying alchemist..."

Markus: "Wait, but..." He turns to Albedo. "Is it fine for me to go with you, then?!"

Albedo: "Certainly. I don't mind showing you where it is. Why, do you not wish to go?"

Markus: "I-I guess I don't mind, but... Are you sure you want to invite me?"

Albedo: "Of course. You are my friend, after all. Right?"

Markus: "F-friend?" His eyes widen, his face turning pink, surprised to hear him say that so bluntly.

Timaeus: "Gosh, you two truly have become friends? That's great to hear!"

Albedo: He crosses his arms, turning his attention toward the city's front gate. "... Yes, well. It'll take quite a while to get there, so we should leave immediately. It wouldn't be good to climb back down the mountain when it's too dark."

Markus: "Y-yeah, okay..."

--

After quite the long hike, they finally make it to Dragonspine. Despite borrowing warmer clothes from Albedo, Markus still finds himself shivering from the cold.

Markus: "I-i-it's freezing, Albedo. C-couldn't you have picked a b-better spot than on an icy mountain like this?!"

Albedo: "It's fine. I'm used to it." He responds as calmly as ever. "Do you regret following me up here?"

Markus: "N-no, but... Y-you're even less b-bundled up than me... You're n-not even wearing your coat!"

Albedo: "Yes, because I lent it to you."

Markus: "E-exactly! S-so... how are you perfectly fine?!"

Albedo: "It's fine. I'm used to it." He repeats in the same neutral tone.

Markus: "Y-you already said that!" He sniffles, wrapping the borrowed coat around him tightly as he continues to shiver. "U-u-ugh... T-this is crazy..."

Albedo suddenly stops, gazing off towards the mountain, eyes distant.

Albedo: "... It seems like you're doing well. That's good."

Markus: "U-uh, Albedo? Who are you talking to...?"

Albedo: "What do you mean? It's only us two here, right?"

Markus: "...?"

Albedo: "We've almost arrived."

Eventually, Albedo manages to guide Markus to a small alcove halfway up the mountain. Despite being practically nestled between ice and... more ice, it's quite the cozy place. Markus already begins to feel a lot warmer before Albedo even starts a small fire, which he does without a word to help thaw out his poor, shivering friend.

As Markus sits beside it to warm up and catch his breath, he takes in his surroundings. Strange stones, vials, and other random equipment are scattered around, only barely organized. It's clear Albedo has spent a lot of time in this place. Just being here feels like stepping into another part of his world, a part of it that Markus doesn't feel he deserves to see.

Albedo: "You appear to be feeling better now."

Markus: "I-I guess... Thanks for the fire."

Albedo: "I apologize for dragging you to such a cold location."

Markus: "N-no, that's okay! I-I'm actually pretty flattered you thought to bring me here..."

Albedo: "It really isn't that big of a deal. Besides, you don't need to speak to me like that after all the time we've spent together, do you?"

Markus: "B-but... This place... isn't one that you've brought many people to, right?"

Albedo: "I suppose not. The only others I've invited here in the past are Sucrose and Timaeus, to request their assistance for some alchemical projects that I conducted here."

Markus: "I'm not an alchemist, though..."

Albedo: "That isn't relevant. I've previously only thought to do so for work-related matters. This is the first time I've..." He stops himself suddenly.

Markus: "Uh... Albedo?"

Albedo: "Why did you decide to befriend me, Markus?"

Markus: "Huh? You should already know, right? Klee asked me to..."

Albedo: "That's not the only reason, is it? At least not anymore, surely."

Markus: "U-um... Eh..." He blushes lightly, scratching the back of his head nervously. "Well, my reason is a bit embarrassing to admit. It may make me sound a little... pretentious."

Albedo: "Oh? That makes me want to know even more."

Markus: "Ugh, I knew you were going to say that. Fine..." He sighs. "To be honest, I used to be someone that kept to himself a lot. And I'd probably still be like that if it wasn't for Amber and the others... I pretended like I was fine by myself, that it would be better if I handled all of my problems on my own... but deep down I was really lonely..."

Albedo: "Is... that so?"

Markus: "Yes. So, when I first met you I thought that..."

He pauses, looking into Albedo's eyes.

Markus: "... you remind me of how I used to be."

Albedo's eyes widen, staring at him in silence for a bit.

Markus: "See, I told you it sounded pretentious. Forget I even said that."

Albedo: "..."

Suddenly, a chilly gust of wind hits Markus, making him shiver.

Markus: "On another note... Albedo, is there a particular reason this spot is your favorite? I know it's secluded or whatever, but couldn't you have picked a hideaway that isn't so... cold?"

Albedo: "Heh. I do have another reason, actually." He lightly chuckles, glad to have a reason to change the subject. "What would you say if I told you my... brother lived here?"

Markus: "I'd say he's even more nuts than you are..."

Albedo: He chuckles even more at Markus's answer. "Yes, I had a feeling you'd give me a response like that. You've become easy enough for me to read that I can more or less predict what you'll say now."

Markus: "I don't know how to feel about that... Especially since I can't really predict anything you say at all..."

Albedo smirks, staring off into the distance.

Albedo: "Pardon me, Brother? You don't mind me showing this precious spot to my good friend Markus, do you?"

Markus: "What, is your brother some 'spooky ghost'?!" He grumbles, despite becoming flustered from Albedo casually calling him his friend again.

Albedo: "Perhaps."

Markus: "Mmngh... You're just messing with me, aren't you?"

Albedo: "Hm? I thought you said I was hard to predict?"

Markus: "Maybe I was wrong about that, then..." He shrugs.

Albedo: "In that case, how about this? Can you guess what I'm planning on having us do today?"

Markus: "U-uh... He pauses. "Not really? I'm assuming you're going to show me some sort of alchemy experiment, like usual?"

Albedo: "Actually, it'll be the reverse this time."

Markus: "Huh?"

Albedo gestures him over to a table he's standing next to, where a small variety of food and ingredients are neatly spread out. Markus reluctantly drags himself away from the warm fire to join him.

Albedo: "Do you know how to cook, Markus?"

Markus: "Yeah, I guess. Why, do you want me to prepare something...?"

Albedo: "Correct. I thought it'd be a good way for you to try your hand at alchemy yourself."

Markus: "Wha? What does cooking have to do with alchemy?"

Albedo: "They're a lot more alike then you'd think. Here, follow this recipe I've written down, and make two bowls of it, if you wouldn't mind."

Markus takes the sheet Albedo wrote the recipe on, and winces.

Markus: "This is... spicy soup, isn't it...?"

Albedo: "Yes. It's an excellent way to keep warm in this climate."

Markus: "I-I mean, I get it, but ugh... I hate spicy stuff, especially spicy soup..." He groans, shaking his head. "But whatever, fine..."

Albedo takes a seat near the fire himself as he waits for Markus to make the soup. After a couple minutes, Markus turns around and hands Albedo a bowl, before sitting down next to him with his own.

Albedo: "Hm, this is... passable, I suppose." He comments, after trying some of it.

Markus: "Hmph. If you're looking for an 'expert' in making spicy soup like this, you should ask Barb instead." He replies, before hesitantly trying some of it himself, sticking his tongue out in displeasure after tasting a spoonful.

Albedo: "Oh? Is this 'Barb' better at following a recipe to the letter, instead of muting the spiciness to suit their own tastes?"

Markus: He involuntarily shudders. "Drat, so you noticed, huh..."

Albedo: "It's no matter. I appreciate the meal, thank you, Markus."

Markus: "By the way, I still don't really get what making this has to do with alchemy..."

Albedo: "Alchemy can involve changing something's appearance, essence, or in the case of the experiment with the apple I showed you previously, even their flavor. As such, in a sense, cooking isn't all that different from alchemy."

Markus: He glances at him, a mild glare in his eyes. "Albedo."

Albedo: "Yes?"

Markus: "This was all a trick to get me to make lunch for you, wasn't it?"

Albedo: "That's right."

Markus: "G-grr... Albedo!"

Albedo, once again, covers his mouth with his hand, in an attempt to stifle his chuckling.

Markus: "Augh! I can't believe you!"

They spend a good while eating, chatting, and Albedo teaches Markus a bit more about alchemy as well (well, he tries to, but most of it flies over Markus's head). When they notice the sun is about to set, Markus figures he should head back before it gets too dark.

Markus: "Well, that was pretty fun... I guess. Thanks for inviting me here, Albedo." He tells him, after getting up and stretching.

Albedo: "Don't mention it. I... had fun as well."

Markus: "I think I'll be okay heading back on my own. See you." He waves as he begins to walk away. But he turns back one last time and says, "Oh, and say hi to your brother for me."

Albedo: "... Will do."

His slightly chipper demeanor fades as he watches Markus descend the mountain.

Albedo: "I'm... not making a mistake, am I?"

He turns around, looking off in the distance again.

Albedo: "Is someone like me even worthy of being anyone's friend...?"

--

Albedo: "Good day, Timaeus." He greets him the following afternoon, upon spotting him standing next to the soon-to-be-finally-rebuilt Alchemy Lab.

Timaeus: "Good day to you too, Master Albedo. As you can see, the lab's almost finished being rebuilt. You'll soon be able to resume your work here in Mondstadt again!"

Albedo: "That's good to hear. Have you seen Markus come by, by any chance?"

Timaeus: "Actually, he originally stopped by asking for you, like usual. But Sister Rosaria came by soon after and took him away somewhere."

Albedo: "Is... that so?"

Timaeus: "Yes. She didn't look very happy... I wonder what happened...?" His usual chipper smile fades into a frown as he says this.

Albedo: "... Do you know where they went?"

Timaeus: "The Favonius Headquarters's library, I believe..."

Albedo: "Thank you. I'll be taking my leave now."

As Albedo walks off, Timaeus watches him head away from the city's main gate, where he normally sees Albedo depart from, and finds it strange. He decides it's best to leave him be however... after he notices the unusually serious look on Albedo's face.

Once Albedo reaches the Knights of Favonius Headquarters, he silently enters the library, careful not to draw too much attention to himself. In one of the corners of the library, he finds Rosaria and Markus in the middle of a conversation. Albedo decides not to interrupt, instead positioning himself just close enough where he can listen without being seen by them.

Markus: "Jeez, what is it you want this time, Rosaria?"

Rosaria: "What, am I interrupting you meeting with that alchemist again?"

Markus: "Yeah, I was planning on meeting up with Albedo again today." He glares at her in annoyance. "Why do you have such a problem with that, anyway?!"

Instead of meeting his glare with her own, she breathes a deep sigh, turning toward a nearby bookshelf.

Rosaria: "Take a look at this..."

She grabs a book from it, and places the book on a small table beside them. It's big and rather fancy, with 'MY SON' printed on the cover in bold, beautiful text.

Markus: "Uh, what is this?" He shrugs questioningly.

Rosaria: "Something I was hoping I wouldn't have to show you. But, unfortunately, since you were too stupid to listen to my warnings, I don't have a choice." She states, very irritably.

Markus: "Excuse me? What's that supposed to mean?!" He exclaims, becoming just as irritable as her, due to taking offense from her previous comment. "Why are you calling me stupid, the heck's your prob-..."

Rosaria: "Zip it." She coldly cuts him off, turning her attention back to the book. "This was left here by Alice some time ago."

Markus: "Aunti-... er, Miss Alice did...?"

Rosaria: "You're familiar with her, right?"

Markus: "Of course I am, I've known her since I was little. But you already knew that, right?"

Rosaria: "I meant... do you know anything she's well-known for?"

Markus: "U-uh, well, let's see... She's the one who wrote the Teyvat Travel Guide, right? And she's also Klee's mom. And she's the one who convinced Barb to become an idol... if that counts."

Rosaria: "You know concerningly little about her given the circumstances, but whatever." She sighs again. "One day I was... bored, and found this book in the library. I randomly decided to bring it up to Alice when I encountered her a while back, to see if she knew anything about it. And she told me it was written by one of her 'colleagues' a long time ago."

She turns to the book, opening it up and flipping to one of its pages.

Rosaria: "The author of this book is a highly skilled alchemist, named Rhinedottir."

Albedo can't help tensing a little at Rosaria's previous statement, while Markus just raises an eyebrow in confusion.

Rosaria: "At this point, I don't need to ask if you're familiar with alchemy, do I?"

Markus: "Of course you don't. I've watched Albedo make... a bunch of stuff with it a couple times already."

Rosaria: "I'm sure it wasn't anything of significance, though. Or else you wouldn't speak so casually about him or the 'stuff' he's made."

Markus: "Huh? What are you talking about?!"

Rosaria: "I'm assuming he hasn't shown you what he's fully capable of with his alchemy. And even if he has, his alchemical talent pales in comparison to Rhinedottir's. After all... she's skilled enough to even make homunculi."

Markus: "Homu-... what?"

Rosaria: "So he never told you about that... I'm not surprised." She shakes her head. "A living, breathing creature closely resembling the natural ones in our world. That's what a homunculus is. In Rhinedottir's case, she was able to create one that acts and breathes almost like an ordinary human."

Markus: "T-that's..."

Rosaria: "Homunculi act like normal human beings on the outside, but in reality, they're probably more similar to monsters than anything. Especially since they originate from... never mind, I've already said too much."

Markus stares at her blankly for a few seconds, before he begins to laugh.

Markus: "Are you serious? Surely you of all people wouldn't believe something like that, right? I'm sure Miss Alice was just messing with you... For all we know, she's probably the one who wrote that book."

Rosaria: "Believe me, I thought she was messing with me too... at first." She responds, her dry, serious expression not wavering.

Markus: "Heh. What's with you? This is the kind of thing I'd expect to hear from Fischl, or maybe even Lisa." He shrugs. "Maybe you should tell one of them this instead, they'd probably get a bigger kick out of it than me..."

Rosaria ignores Markus's jab and flips through the book some more until she stops at a certain page. Markus hesitantly takes a look at it.

Markus: "Krei-... Kreide-... K-Kreidepr-..."

Rosaria: "Kreideprinz. That's the title granted to the homunculus she created. The 'son' in question."

Markus: "And you really think this Kreide... guy actually exists?" He glances at her doubtfully, still not taking her seriously whatsoever.

Rosaria: "What would you think if he did?"

Markus: "Uh... I don't know? It's not like I've... met him?"

Rosaria: "Yes, you have."

Markus: "H-huh?" His eyes widen a bit, his mood shifting.

Rosaria: She lets out a deep, long drawn breath, hesitating a bit before continuing. "It's... Albedo."

Markus: He freezes, a chill running down his spine. "W-what did you just...? A-Albedo, he... was the one who created it?"

Rosaria: "Don't play dumb. You heard what I said."

Markus: "I did hear what you said... But what you said doesn't make any sense!"

Rosaria: "Does it not? I always thought something was... off about that alchemy boy. And from all the time you've spent with him, surely you've thought so too, right?"

Markus: "..."

Rosaria: "Albedo is the homunculus, Markus. Alice herself confirmed it, so there's no doubt about it."

Markus bites his lip, looking away from her. He immediately recalls what Albedo asked him the day he first met him.

"Tell me... if someone asked you to try and befriend a monster, would you?"

Markus vigorously shakes his head, trying desperately to avoid tearing up.

Rosaria: "Obviously, she told me I shouldn't tell anyone about this... not that I had any intention on blabbing."

Markus suddenly slams his fist against a bookshelf behind him, hard enough to make his hand sting.

Markus: "Then why tell me?!"

Rosaria: "Because, for whatever reason, you decided he'd make a great pal to casually hang out with." She groans. "You're not even the type to try and make friends like that, why do so with him...?"

Markus: "S-shut up..." He mutters weakly.

Rosaria: "Anyway... He's dangerous Markus. You understand now?"

Markus tries to slam his fist against the bookshelf again, but Rosaria grabs his arms to stop him.

Rosaria: "Knock it off! You're not a child anymore!"

Markus: "Why, Rosaria?! Why would you do this!?" He exclaims, louder than intended. "Why did you tell me all this?!"

Rosaria: "Shouldn't it be obvious?! I..."

Markus: "It's not! I don't get it, what is this?! What is happening...!?"

Rosaria notices the tears welling down his face, tears he can't hold back anymore.

Rosaria: "Did you really care about him that much...?"

She gently lets go of his arms, her expression softening... more than Markus has ever seen from her before.

Rosaria: "I'm just trying to warn you... for your own good."

Albedo quietly slumps to the ground, his heart sinking. Much more than he expected to.

Albedo: "I brought this upon myself. I'm solely to blame for this outcome..." He thinks to himself, closing his eyes as he can't bring himself to look on anymore. "I kept my distance from everyone, even Klee and others I work with like Timaeus, to avoid this particular situation."

Albedo's chest tightens. A dull ache, but one that still hurts quite a bit.

Albedo: "I've pictured this kind of scenario many times in the past, but... I didn't expect it to feel quite like this."

He pauses, silently reflecting on everything.

Albedo: "Heh... It's almost humorous how careless I've been. Still..."

He leans his head back against the wall, his eyes still closed.

Albedo: "In the end, I can't say I regret it. Our time together... It was enjoyable while it lasted, I suppose..."

Rosaria: "If you want to know about the kind of 'person' you've been dealing with this whole time, I suggest you read that book..."

Markus says nothing, staring at the ground, visibly shaking.

Rosaria: "Or don't, I don't care. Either way, just..."

Markus: "... Alone."

Rosaria: "Hm?"

Markus: "Is that why Albedo always preferred to be alone? Did he think he had to be, because he's..."

Rosaria: "I... guess? Anyway, stay away fro-..."

Markus: "No."

Albedo's eyes snap open, looking back at Markus in disbelief. Rosaria looks at him with an almost equal level of surprise, although with a hint of irritation.

Rosaria: "What did you just say?"

Markus: "No!" He proclaims with more confidence.

Rosaria: "Y-you..." She clenches her fist, clearly annoyed. "Don't you get it?! He's a creation made by..."

Markus: "I don't care!" He yells, stopping her mid-sentence.

Rosaria: "W-what?!"

Markus takes a deep breath, before standing up straight, wiping his eyes and slowly regaining his composure.

Markus: "So, Albedo is some 'creation' made by a skilled alchemist? A homun-... whatever? Not gonna lie, I still don't really understand any of it... But I guess it can't be helped, since I'm just too stupid to get that kind of thing. Which means I surely won't understand a single thing in that book either - so you can just keep it to yourself."

Rosaria: "Why are... Quit being so stubborn and childish!"

Markus: "Rosaria..." He cracks a small smile. "It's okay, I'll be fine. You don't need to worry about me so much."

Rosaria: "H-huh...?!" She shakes her head. "Ugh, what exactly is Albedo to you, anyway? For you to be..."

Markus: "Albedo is my friend."

Rosaria & Albedo: "...!"

Markus: "I admit, when I first met him, I thought: 'Boy, this guy is such a weirdo'. And now... well honestly, I still mostly think that." He scoffs, his smile widening. "But... the Albedo I know is the kind of guy who likes to paint random things, work on alchemical experiments, and loves to discover so much stuff about the world. He also loves to tease and mess with me a lot, too... Which I can do with a lot less of, but..."

Markus crosses his arms, giving Rosaria a serious look.

Markus: "But no matter what, he's not someone I'd ever be scared of. Even the thought of that is ridiculous. Monster? Him? Pul-lease."

Rosaria: "You... barely know anything about him. Or the type of 'being' he truly is."

Markus: "He can be really hard to read sometimes, true. But despite that, I can tell how lonely he is. That's... enough for me to understand him, I think. Even if he's 'not actually human'."

Rosaria: "Markus..."

Albedo: "..."

Markus: "Besides, if I ever want to learn more about what he's truly like, I can just ask Albedo himself about it. Since we're friends, I'm sure he won't mind telling me anything he thinks is important for me to know."

Rosaria: "... You sure you won't regret this?"

Markus: "No, I won't." He states without a shred of unease or hesitation.

Rosaria: "... Fine, do whatever you want. But don't go crying to me if things go south."

She walks off, not even bothering to look at Markus anymore, but she surprisingly doesn't seem as upset as before. She eventually passes by where Albedo is still sitting, in-between a bookshelf and a wall, without even noticing his presence.

Markus: "Albedo?"

Markus, however, spots him immediately, confused as to why he's there, slumped on the floor.

Albedo: "Goodness, you found me. How embarrassing." He slowly gets up, brushing dust off himself. "Apologies, I couldn't help overhearing your conversation."

Markus: "So you heard all that, huh..." He blushes lightly, as he recalls what he said about Albedo.

Albedo: "Yes. So, about what that Sister said..."

Markus: "Oh, don't mind her. She can be... Rosaria, but I think she means well... probably? I'm sure she was just trying to look out for me in her own way..."

Albedo: "I see, but that's not quite what I meant. It's what she said about..."

Markus: "Huh?"

Albedo: "... Never mind. You're a strange one, Markus."

Markus: "Seriously?! This is the first time we've spoken today, and you're already insulting me?"

Albedo: "Tell me, Markus... Could I ask you a question?"

Markus: "Hm? What's up?"

Albedo: "If someone asked you to try and befriend a monster, would you?"

Markus: "Haven't you already asked me that before?"

Albedo: "What if that monster... was me?"

Markus pauses, looking at Albedo carefully in the eye.

Markus: "Well, I mean, I guess? I don't know..."

Albedo: "What if... I became a monster powerful enough to destroy all of Mond?" He asks again, this time more serious.

Markus: "H-huh?!" He flinches, a bit unnerved by the question and his sudden intensity.

Albedo: "Well?"

Markus: "Well... what?" He sighs. "We have a lot of strong and capable people in the Knights of Favonius. I'm not afraid of any monster, even if one that had the power to 'destroy all of Mond' showed up."

Albedo: "Truly?"

Markus: "Yeah. And even if that weren't the case... it wouldn't matter. Because even if you turned into a monster, I trust that you'd never do something like that."

Albedo: "Really? And why is that?"

Markus: "Because you're my friend, of course."

Albedo stares at Markus in silence for a moment, before bursting out laughing. Markus was used to his occasional chuckles, but this... was new for him.

Markus: "W-what the... why are you suddenly laughing like that?!"

Albedo: "Markus, you really..." He calms down, wiping some tears off his face. "... are quite a simple-minded fool."

Markus: "Seriously, again with the insults?!"

Albedo: "No, on the contrary. I absolutely... don't consider that a bad thing at all."

Albedo gives him a bright, warm smile. Not a small smile, as if he's trying to imitate some level of joy, but a genuine show of happiness.

Markus: "U-uh, um..." He becomes flustered, not knowing how to react to Albedo's unfamiliar expression. "Y-you won't trick me! I won't accept being called a fool!"

Albedo: "Heheh..."

Markus: "Quit laughing!"

~~

In the present day...

Albedo is in Mondstadt's alchemy lab, immersed in an experiment as usual, when he hears a small knock on the door.

Albedo: "Is that you, Klee? I apologize, but I'm a bit busy at the moment..."

Klee: "But there's a very special someone here who has a very special present for you~!" She cheerfully says from the other side of the door.

Albedo raises an eyebrow in intrigue, moving away from his work for the time being to humor this. He opens the door, and Markus slowly walks in, Klee bouncing up and down in excitement behind him.

Albedo: "Oh, it's just Markus."

Markus: "Gee, sorry it's 'just me'." He grumbles.

He sighs, reluctantly handing Albedo a Windwheel Aster.

Albedo: "Hm? What's this?"

Markus: "What do you think it is? It's a gift for the Windblume Festival."

Albedo: "Oh? But, this is a red flower... Does that mean..."

Markus: "S-shut up, don't be ridiculous!" He blushes furiously in embarrassment. "Even you should know this isn't the type of red flower people gift for... you know what."

Klee: "It's a bestest friend flower! Klee and Kaeya and Markus went to Windrise to search for the perfect bestest friend one earlier today. The one he gave you is the one Markus picked!"

Albedo: "I see, what an interesting choice. The Windwheel Aster... I believe it symbolizes freedom, resilience, hope... Memories, and the passage of time..." He nods in understanding. "It suits both you and our friendship quite well. I'm impressed, Markus."

Markus: "U-uh, actually, I just picked it because it looks like a pinwheel... And I thought it looked kind of cool..."

Albedo stares at him in silence for a few seconds, before bursting out in laughter.

Albedo: "I should've known! Typical Markus!"

Markus: "Hey, what do you mean by that? Are you making fun of me?!"

Albedo calms himself before answering,

Albedo: "Yes."

Markus: "W-why you...!" He clenches his fist in annoyance while Albedo proceeds to laugh again.

Klee: "Klee knew it! You two really are the best of friends, right?"

Markus settles down and looks at Klee nervously.

Markus: "T-the 'best of friends', huh...?"

Albedo: "Indeed. And I couldn't have asked for a better one."

Albedo smiles warmly at Markus as he says this. Markus responds by blushing and looking away from him.

Markus: "... H-hmph..."

Meanwhile, out of sight... Kaeya has been there, leaning behind the door, overhearing everything.

Kaeya: "Ah, Seneschal Seamus, your son has found himself quite the interesting best buddy, hasn't he?" He glances over at Markus, smirking. "I was a tad concerned at first, and was thinking of watching over him on your behalf, but I don't think there's anything to worry about after all."

Hands in his pockets, he silently walks out of the Alchemy Lab, leaving the others be.

Albedo: "Thank you for the gift, Markus."

Markus: "Y-you'd better treasure it. It took quite a while to decide what to get you..."

Albedo: "Oh? In that case, I'll have it pressed and hung up on the wall, so it'll always be there for me to admire..."

Markus: "You don't need to treasure it that much!"

Chapter End