The Ever-Reliable Babysitter of Mond
Markus awakens, in a bit of a daze. As he's used to getting up bright and early for his morning patrols, the sounds from outside are enough for him to realize he woke up later than usual.

Markus: "Ooogh..." He groans, holding his hand to his forehead as he slowly sits up. "W-wha...?"

Still not having fully awoken, his mind tries to make sense of why he's still in bed, and drenched in sweat. He notices a warm, moist cloth had been covering his forehead, which falls into his hand as he holds it up to look at it.

Markus: "I'm getting some weird sense of déjá vu right now..."

"Oh, you're finally awake, Markus. You slept like a dainty, tranquil princess."

He glances to his side, and sees someone sitting in a chair beside his bed, in the middle of reading a book. Markus rubs his eyes, and is surprised to see who it is.

Markus: "Ugh. Couldn't I at least be a prince instead...?" He grumbles. "What are you doing here, Albedo?"

Albedo: "Would you have preferred a fair maiden be by your side?"

Markus: "Over you? I suppose so."

Albedo: "I've been watching over you this whole time while you slept, and this is the thanks I get? I'm hurt, Markus."

Markus: "Yeah, yeah, my bad..." He looks out the window, his eyes widening in surprise. "Wait, it's still only nightfall? I feel like I slept for quite a while..."

Albedo: "It was more than 'quite a while', you slept for over a day's time."

Markus: "H-huh?" He stammers in disbelief. "Y-you're... pulling my leg, right?"

Albedo: He shakes his head calmly. "Sorry to say, but this time, I'm not. Your body desperately needed rest, so I won't hold it against you, nor should anyone else."

Markus: "I still feel bad that I was asleep for so long, though..." He stretches his body, taking a deep breath. "I feel a lot better now, at least."

Albedo: "That's good to hear. Especially since you spent all afternoon yesterday wandering around, instead of resting like you were supposed to."

Markus: "H-how did you...?!"

Albedo: "Miss Lisa told me."

Markus: "A-ah, of course. Figures..."

Albedo: "I'd actually taken the time to check on you again last night, and was surprised to see you still resting. Miss Lisa, who had been here looking after you, explained what you'd been up to throughout the day."

Markus: "S-sorry about that..."

Albedo: "She decided we needed to be especially diligent in looking after you, to keep you from wandering off again. That being said, she spent more time looking after you than anyone else."

Markus: "S-s-sorry about that..." He repeats, his guilt rising as he fidgets with the edge of the blanket covering him, unable to meet Albedo's eyes.

Albedo: "Miss Lisa is the one you should be apologizing to for that one." He closes his book, sighing. "Granted, you've remained asleep all this time, so it seems there was little cause for concern."

Markus: "Was it just you and Lisa that have been... looking after me?"

Albedo: "No, there was one other..."

Markus: "Was it Barb, or Amber? If it was Noelle, that'd be kind of awkward after yesterday..." He thinks to himself nervously.

Albedo: "... It was Master Jean."

Markus: "S-Sis?!" He panics, his head dropping onto his blanket with a whump.

Albedo: "Yes. She was quite worried about you after your 'antics' yesterday, so she took some time to look after you as well."

Markus: "A-Albedo... you're such a good friend. I'm so glad I woke up with you by my side..."

Albedo: "Oh, so now you're happy I'm here?" He smirks a bit, shaking his head. "Is the thought of waking up to your sister looking after you that embarrassing?"

Markus: "N-nah, Barb being here instead wouldn't have been so bad..."

Albedo: "Dodging the question, I see." He gets up from his chair. "Anyway, I'll go inform the others that you're feeling better."

Markus: "Thanks, but I can just..."

Before he can finish, they both hear a knock at the door.

Markus: "Is that you, Barb? It's your room too, you don't need to knock..."

The door creaks open a bit, the one who opened it peeking their head out shyly.

Markus: "W-wha? Noelle?!

Noelle: "P-pardon the intrusion... May I enter?"

Markus: "Of course! Come in."

Noelle: "B-but it's not my room..."

Markus: "Um, that's not a problem... It's not like Albedo lives here."

Noelle steps inside slowly, eyes lowered while fidgeting with her hands.

Albedo: "I heard you looked after Markus yesterday. Why are you acting so bashful?" He turns to Markus, eyebrow raised. "Did you do something?"

Markus: "Why do you assume it's my fault?"

Albedo: "Well... is it?"

Markus: "U-um, probably...?" He awkwardly looks away.

Noelle: "I feel responsible for not making sure Markus properly rested yesterday... So I..."

Markus: "Noelle, that's obviously not your fault. You shouldn't feel guilty about something like that."

Noelle: "B-but you were asleep for so long..."

Markus: "Yeah, but I feel much better now!" He straightens up, but once he realizes he's still in his pajamas, he sinks under his covers in embarrassment.

Albedo: "Oh?" He glances at the two of them, before nodding. "I see. Did something happen between you two? Am I in the way, perhaps?"

Markus: "What, you jealous?" He scoffs, still under the covers.

Albedo: "If you're in the mood to be making dumb jokes, then you're clearly fine, Markus."

Noelle: "That's good to hear." She says, looking relieved.

Markus: "Hey, I already said I was fine earlier, y'know! Why are you only relieved after he said it?"

Noelle: "W-well, it's just..."

Albedo: "It's just... yes."

Markus: "It's just what?!"

Albedo and Noelle lightly chuckle as Markus crosses his arms in a huff.

Markus: "... Y'know, Noelle, after yesterday, it feels kind of weird to see you in your uniform again."

Noelle: "Yes, I'm surprised I adjusted to my casual attire so quickly. I'm not used to wearing clothes like that..."

Markus tilts his head, noticing something off about her headpiece and outfit.

Markus: "By the way, what happened to your roses?"

Noelle: "I-I'm sorry?!" She jumps back a bit, startled by his question.

Albedo: "Come to think of it, the flowers adorning your attire seem to be missing today."

Noelle: "U-uh, they're not missing. I took them out..."

Markus: "Why? How come?"

Noelle: "B-because... having them on reminds me of... what happened before..."

Markus's cheeks flush as he recalls what she's referring to. He clears his throat, fumbling for words.

Markus: "L-look, Noelle... when two people first become friends, it's, uh... normal for some embarrassing situations to happen. Think of it like... a natural initiation of sorts."

Noelle: "I-is that so?"

Albedo: "Is that why you made a fool of yourself when we first met, Markus?"

Markus: "Zip it, Albedo."

Noelle: She giggles, before responding, "Markus, it's alright. You don't need to lie to me."

Markus: "H-huh? But I'm not..."

Noelle: "You're trying to make me feel better, aren't you? Thank you." She says with a warm smile.

Markus looks away again, blushing even more.

Markus: "W-well, those roses looked nice. And they're your favorite flower, right? So you shouldn't get rid of them for a reason like that."

Noelle: "O-okay..."

They hear another knock at the door.

Markus: "Is that you, Barb? It's your room too, you don't need to knock..." He says a second time.

The door creaks open a bit, his sister poking her head out.

Barbara: "Sorry Bro, I didn't want to accidentally wake you up..."

Albedo: "Why did you assume it was Sister Barbara again?"

Markus: "Because the other person I'd figure would visit me this late at night..."

Suddenly, Amber bursts in behind Barbara, grinning wide.

Amber: "Yo, Markus! You finally feeling better?!"

Markus: "... would just barge in. Like that."

Klee: "Klee is here to see you, too!" She bounces in, holding up some fruits before plopping them onto Markus's bed. "I brought an apple, Wolfhook, and Sunsettia! Klee couldn't decide which one to bring, so I brought all three!"

Markus: "Heheh, thanks Klee." He chuckles at her energy.

Kaeya: "Greetings, everyone. Quite the gathering, hm?" He smoothly strides in as well.

Markus: "Okay, seriously, are you all planning on throwing a party in my room or what?"

Kaeya: "Ooh, sounds like fun~!"

Albedo: "Well, I'm not one for parties, so I'll be taking my leave now." He moves towards the door, before gently taking Klee's hand. "Let's get going, Klee."

Klee: "Aw, but Klee just got here!"

Albedo: "Sorry, but it's getting late, and I have some work to finish at the lab." Before he walks out, he turns back to Markus. "If you have some time later, would you mind stopping by for a few minutes? There's something I'd like to discuss with you."

Markus: "Huh? Oh, sure. Okay."

Klee: "Bye, Markus! If you're feeling better, please play with Klee tomorrow!" She waves to him enthusiastically.

With that, Albedo heads out, Klee in tow.

Kaeya: "Well, it seems you're doing better Markus, so I'll take my leave as well. I'd like to stop by Angel's Share before I turn in for the day." With a casual wave, Kaeya slips out.

Noelle: "U-um, I should... be going too. Take care, Markus." She dips her head politely and walks out, her steps small and hesitant.

With Noelle gone, only Barbara and Amber remain by Markus's bedside.

Markus: "Nice going, you two. Making Noelle feel self-conscious about staying."

Barbara: "I'm surprised Noelle decided to stop by and visit. I didn't know you two were that close, Bro."

Markus: "U-uh... I mean, it's not like we're super close or anything. It's just..."

Barbara: "Really? But she was surprisingly informal with you! She simply called you by name, without addressing you as 'Sir' or 'Mister' like she normally does."

Markus: "W-well, she actually helped... look after me yesterday." He scratches the back of his neck, eyes darting away.

Amber: "Oh, right! Lisa told me about that."

Markus: "She did? Just how much did she tell you...?" His voice tightens, his nervousness written all over his face.

Amber: "She told me..." She places her hands on her hips crossly. "... you were out having fun with Noelle, instead of resting like you were supposed to!"

Markus: "Ugh... I wasn't 'having fun', I was..."

Barbara: "H-having fun?" She blushes lightly, covering her mouth with her hands.

Markus: "Whatever you're imagining, Barb... Just stop it, please." He sighs. "Speaking of yesterday, where were you all day? Rosaria wasn't around either, but that's normal for her."

Barbara: "U-u-um...! I..."

Amber: "W-well, is that so strange? I wasn't around either, y'know..." She laughs nervously, trying to redirect the conversation.

Markus: "Of course you weren't, because you were busy with the mission..." He winces as he remembers. "That I was too sick to help you with..."

Amber: "A-ah... No need to look so down! The mission went smoothly enough. I had some great help, y'know!"

Markus: "Help?" He raises an eyebrow. "But if I wasn't there, who did they get to assist you?"

Amber: "E-e-er...! Uh..."

Barbara: "I-it wasn't me! I had nothing to do with it!"

Markus: "I know that, obviously. You're not an Outrider or any other Knight of Favonius."

Barbara: "Y-yeah, of course! That wouldn't make any sense... Ha hah..."

Markus: "Why are the two of you acting so weird? Did something happen yesterday that you're not telling me?"

Barbara: "U-um...!"

Barbara's eyes drift to his sidetable, landing on a red rose in a cup of water.

Barbara: "E-eek! That rose... M-Markus!" She stammers, her face flushing red.

Amber: She gasps upon noticing it herself. "Who gave you that?! Was it a... present from Windblume?"

Markus: "D-don't be ridiculous! Noelle gave it to me... but only because she likes roses; it doesn't mean anything else!" He exclaims in embarrassment. "Besides, Windblume ended a couple days ago."

Amber: "Ohhh~?" She leans in, smirking while eyeing him curiously. "I feel like you're hiding something from me..."

Markus: "I'm not. Stop looking at me like that." He states, becoming slightly annoyed.

Barbara leans in as well, eyes squinting suspiciously.

Markus: "Seriously, that's enough!" He gets out of bed and stretches. "Both of you, get out, please. I want to change out of these pajamas finally."

He practically pushes the two of them out of the room, locking the door behind him.

Barbara: "P-phew... That was close..."

Amber: "What, are you afraid of him finding out about the disgui-..."

Barbara: "Shh! Amber, we're right outside the door! What if he hears you?!"

Amber: "Relax, relax!" She chuckles, reassuring her. "I'm sure he won't find out. Even Kaeya's made sure to keep his lips sealed, so we should be good."

Barbara: "U-uh... Okay..."

Victoria: "Ah, Sister Barbara. Are you done checking on Sir Markus? Would you mind doing something for me?" She asks, approaching the two of them suddenly.

Barbara: "Of course. What do you need?"

Victoria: "Would you mind fetching Deacon Dahlia? He should be over at Angel's Share at the moment."

Amber: "Aw, darn! Kaeya said he was heading there, we could've just asked him to do it..."

Markus: "I'll take care of it, Sister Victoria." He cuts in, already having stepped out of his room, changed into casual attire.

Barbara: "A-aah!" She jumps back, nearly stumbling.

Markus: "What's with you, you weirdo? What're you freaking out about?" He asks, looking at her strangely.

Barbara: "U-uh, nothing! Hah hah..."

Victoria: "Are you sure it's no trouble?"

Markus: "Of course not. I spent over a day sleeping, so I'll probably be up all night. And I need to visit Albedo later anyway, so I already had a reason to head out."

Amber: "Don't overexert yourself, Markus!" She scolds him, frowning slightly. "You'd better be back soon, you hear me?"

Markus: "Yeah, yeah, I get it. I'm sorry about yesterday. But I assure you, I'm fine this time. Besides, I'm just going to the tavern for a bit, I'm not planning on hiking up Dragonspine or something."

Amber: "Hm... okay then. I'll trust you."

Markus: He turns to Barbara. "You've probably been kept busy enough today, right? Don't worry about it Barb, I'll take care of it. The only thing you should be focusing on is getting ready for bed."

Barbara: "Okay! Thanks, Bro." She responds, smiling warmly.

Markus nods, before heading for the door.

--

Markus walks into Angel's Share, holding his nose before too much of the smell of the wine and booze of the tavern enters his nostrils.

Charles: "Hey there, Markus! It's unusual for you to stop by again so soon, especially this late at night."

Markus: "Hello, Charles. And hi again, Kaeya." He lightly waves to him with his free hand, after noticing him sitting at the counter next to the bartender.

Kaeya: "Oh my Markus, coming here for a drink immediately after recovering? I hope you aren't picking up your father's bad habits. Would you like me to treat you to a glass of his favorite?"

Markus: "That's not why I'm here. I'm underage, anyway..."

Kaeya: He laughs at Markus's response. "Anyway, are you here looking for Sister Rosaria? I don't think she stopped by today."

Markus: "Actually no, Sister Victoria asked me to look for Deacon Dahlia."

Kaeya: "Oh, him? He's surely having a merry old time with that free-spirited bard, as usual."

Markus: "Free-spirited bard...?"

Charles: "I'm assuming he's talking about Venti. He's probably my most frequent visitor."

Markus: "Venti... Ah right, his typical drinking buddy..."

Charles: "They should still be up on the second floor."

Markus: "Thank you."

He waves to them again, this time with the other hand (he's gotten used to the smell), before heading up the staircase. He spots the two of them right away, sitting at a nearby table.

Dahlia: "Oh? Good evening, Markus."

Markus: "I think it's a bit late for 'good evening' at this point..." He utters dryly.

Venti: "I can tell by that grimace you're not too pleased to be here looking for my friend, hm?"

Markus: "That... wouldn't be wrong."

Dahlia: "Ah, so you're here looking for me? I was wondering why you'd be in a place like this."

Markus: "Yeah, Sister Victoria needed you for... something. I forgot to ask her what the reason was..." He shrugs. "Anyway, I'm sorry to interrupt whatever you're doing here, but would you mind heading to the cathedral soon?"

Dahlia: "Very well then." He gets up, stepping towards Markus. "Come to think of it, it's rare for us to talk, isn't it?"

Markus: "Yeah, because you're always off doing something... related to your role as a Deacon, I'm assuming. I've known you for a long time, but you're still almost like a stranger to me..."

Dahlia: "I suppose you're not wrong. I know you have your own duties outside of the cathedral, but as the son of the Seneschal, I hope you're making plenty of time for your prayers."

Markus: "Of course I do. I wouldn't hear the end of it from Barb if I didn't..." He chuckles humorlessly.

Dahlia: "Good boy."

Markus: "H-hey, don't call me that! Surely you're not that much older than me, right?" He says in slight annoyance. "By the way, you're supposed to be the 'Herald of Barbatos', right? I figured you'd spend your nights speaking to the Archon, not drinking with a random bard in a tavern... No offense."

Dahlia suddenly breaks out into laughter, startling Markus.

Markus: "W-wha...?! Why are you laughing so much all of a sudden?"

Dahlia: "I apologize. It's just, what you said was really funny."

Markus: "I don't get what was so funny about it, but whatever." He turns to Venti. "By the way, I've always wondered... do you drink the same stuff as Deacon Dahlia? Like, actual liquor?"

Dahlia: "Of course he does. He drinks much more than I do, in fact."

Venti: "Angel's Share is home to Mond's finest wines, it'd be a shame to not partake in as much as they have to offer after stopping by~."

Markus: "But... are you even able to drink? You look like you're the same age as me, or even younger..."

Venti suddenly breaks out into laughter, startling Markus.

Markus: "W-wha...?! Why are you laughing so much all of a sudden?"

Venti: "I apologize. It's just, what you said was really funny."

Markus: "I don't get what was so funny about it, but... hey, wait a minute!"

Venti: "Markus, you seem like the type to put a lot of unnecessary weight on your shoulders." He muses aloud, changing the subject. "But I can sense some of that weight has been lifted somewhat recently. Did something... good happen, perhaps?"

Markus: "W-wha? Where did that come from all of a sudden?!" He stammers, blushing.

Venti: "There's no need to cause yourself unnecessary stress. You are loved and cherised by many of the citizens of this lovely region, and they count on you a lot more than you think. Even the Anemo Archon himself has been watching over you with keen interest, proud of all you've accomplished so far, and feels you will grow up to do even more spectacular things."

Markus: "Hmph. How would you even know something like that?"

Venti: "Well..." He takes out his Vision, holding it up to show Markus. "I have an Anemo Vision, you see. As such, is it so strange if someone like me is able to understand Mond's Archon, even a little bit?"

Markus: "What, do Anemo Visions holders get special treatment...? I have an Anemo Vision too, but I've never been able to 'hear' the Archon..."

Venti: "Alright, I was merely jesting regarding my Vision but... Are you sure you've never been able to hear him? Maybe... you just haven't been paying enough attention to the words of the wind..."

Markus: "Words of the... what?"

Venti: "Young Markus, allow me to sing you a verse, in your honor..."

He clears his throat, and takes out his harp before he begins.

Venti: "♫ Oh young lad, blood ties between two families with his fate tied to neither, works to be worthy of both but cannot fully appease either... But fret not, as your destiny has much greater things in store, once you find it your worries will be no more~ ♫"

Dahlia, Charles, and the other visitors of the tavern, even Kaeya, overhear this verse and offer some brief claps in appreciation. Markus meanwhile, just stands there silently, not knowing what to make of Venti's song.

Dahlia: "For him to create a verse especially for you... You are quite blessed, Markus!"

Markus: "I-Is that so...?" He utters, before thinking, "I don't get it."

Markus eventually leaves the tavern, and before he goes back to the cathedral, he makes sure to stop by Albedo's lab briefly as he promised. Despite having just woken up about an hour ago, Markus decides to head back to bed again after returning home.

--

The next morning (almost noon at this point), Markus walks through the hustling and bustling streets of Mondstadt, yawning and stretching.

Markus: "It's only been a few days, but it's felt like forever since I've worn my uniform..." He crosses his arms, pouting. "I can't believe Amber and the others still won't let me work... I'm definitely feeling better at this point!"

Albedo: "Oh, you're awake earlier than I expected." He greets Markus, waving to him from outside the Alchemy Lab.

Markus: "I could say the same to you." He responds as he walks up to him. "I was considering staying up later, but I was surprisingly tired enough to want to sleep again right after... 'our talk' yesterday..."

Albedo: "Speaking of which, have you come to a decision... about that?"

Markus: He sighs, glancing down at the ground. "I... already told you I need time to think about it, Albedo. I'm not trying to sound rude, but..."

Albedo: "No, that's quite alright. I don't mean to impose anything on you, I just wanted to know if you were still considering it. You should have plenty of time to mull it over; I doubt the lab will be blowing up again anytime soon..."

Markus: "You say that if it's an inevitability..." He shrugs, shaking his head.

Klee: "Albedo, Markus! What are you two talking about?" She shouts as she dashes over to them.

Markus: "Morning, Klee. U-uh, we were... um..."

Albedo: "It's nothing important. Rather, could I ask you a favor, Klee?"

Klee: "Of course! What do you need Klee to do?"

Albedo: "Markus is going to need a babysitter today. Would you mind looking after him for me?" He asks her, smirking.

Klee: "Ooh, ooh! Really?! Klee will do it!" She jumps up and down in excitement at the request.

Markus: "Excuse me, what is this about?!"

Albedo: "You know very well what 'this is about', Markus." He raises an eyebrow, his wry grin not wavering.

Markus: "I keep telling you guys I'm feeling fine now; I don't need anyone to look after me anymore!"

Albedo: "And were you feeling fine when you went out a few days ago, as well?"

Markus: "... Murgh..."

Klee: "Oh no, is Markus... in trouble?"

Albedo: "Something like that."

Markus: "Stop telling her weird things, Albedo..." He groans. "Seriously, this isn't going to be repeat of the 'Abyssal Mawsworn' incident, is it?"

Albedo: "Well, as long as you don't run into any Ruin Hunters again..." He turns to Klee. "I'm counting on you to not let Markus put himself or anyone else in danger, Klee."

Klee: "Got it!" She giggles. "Klee will be the best babysitter ever!"

Markus: "Hmph, this is stupid..." He grumbles, walking away.

Albedo: "Where are you going?"

Markus: "Relax, I'm just going to go grab a drink at Good Hunter..."

"Nyaaah! I'm so sick of this!"

Markus glances to his side, noticing a familiar young girl of the Kätzlein bloodline storm out of The Cat's Tail, dashing in his direction.

Markus: "H-hey, Diona! Watch ou-...!"

Thump! Before he can stop her, she accidentally bumps into him and tumbles to the ground.

Diona: "U-ugh, watch where you're going, nya!" She growls in annoyance, rubbing her forehead.

Markus: "You okay?" He asks her with concern, offering her a hand up.

Diona: "H-huh...?" She looks up, and once she realizes it's Markus she just ran into, she calms down. "O-oh, it's you, Markus. Sorry about that..."

Markus: "Don't worry about it, it's fine."

He smiles warmly as she accepts his hand, bouncing back on her feet and dusting herself off. Noticing the collision caused her hat to fall off, Markus picks it up and hands it to her.

Markus: "Here."

Diona: "T-thanks... Sorry for shouting at you..." She utters, looking away in shame as she puts it back on.

Before Markus can ask her what happened, Margaret arrives, also running towards him from The Cat's Tail.

Margaret: "Thank you, Markus. You caught our runaway stray!"

Markus: "Don't treat her like she's your pet or something." He crosses his arms, his eyes narrowed. "What happened?"

Diona: "There's waaay too many drunkards at our place today! Not only are they insufferable in general, they wouldn't stop trying to pet my head!" Her tail and ears spike up in anger. "No matter how many times I tell them, they won't stop treating me like a cat... mrrow!"

Margaret: "Diona, we're really busy today, you need to head back to help make more drinks for the customers..."

Markus: "Hey, why don't you give her a break, Margaret? She's clearly very agitated right now."

Margaret: "Jeez, Markus. You're always so soft on Diona..."

Markus: "Isn't The Cat's Tail as popular as it is because of her? You shouldn't give her too hard of a time, y'know." He says sternly.

Margaret: She pauses, sighing. "Alright, fine. I guess... I'll have to figure something out without her, then..."

Diona: She exhales in relief. "Thanks for your help, Markus. I finally have the chance to relax, and... not be swarmed by petting-obsessed drunkards!"

Markus: "Don't mention it..." His eyes widen a bit as he remembers something. "Hey, do you want to go out and collect some ingredients for your drinks? I want to repay you for last time."

Diona: "Huh? 'Repay me'? What do you mean?"

Markus: "Remember when we found that spot where a bunch of red Wolfhooks grow? It's been really helpful to Barb when she goes to Wolvendom to gather medicinal herbs."

Diona: "But Razor was the one who found that spot, not me..."

Markus: "But we wouldn't have been looking for it in the first place if you didn't need them for one of your... concoctions."

Diona: "Well, I guess I'm glad it's been helpful to you... or well, your sister, because... it definitely didn't help me at all. That drink was a total bust... again!"

Markus: "Oh, really? Sorry to hear that."

Diona: "Well, I'm used to it, so... whatever. I've just got to try again..." She snickers darkly. "Y'know, for the sake of destroying the wine industry..."

Markus: "Yes, indeed, for the sake of destroying the wine industry..." He says, snickering just as darkly.

Margaret: "... You two are on the same page about the strangest things..."

Albedo: "It's no surprise they get along so well." He interjects, after having approached them, along with Klee. "One is a grumpy child, and the other is a grump who acts like a child."

Markus & Diona: "What was that?!" They both snap at Albedo in unison, causing Margaret to burst into laughter in response.

Albedo: "In all seriousness, Markus... You're especially immature when it comes to matters related to Sir Diluc, aren't you? Do you dislike him that mu-..."

Markus: "Yes." He states before Albedo even finishes.

Klee: "Hey Diona, guess what? Klee is going to babysit Markus today!" She suddenly tells her.

Diona: "Uh... what?"

Markus: "Sorry Klee, I found something to do, so I no longer need a... 'babysitter'."

Klee: "Awww, no way..." Her head droops, letting out a big frown.

Diona: "I'm sorry, but what is she even talking about?"

Markus: "I was feeling ill a few days ago. Everyone's still worried about me and won't let me work."

Diona: "Oh yeah, Margaret told me yesterday that you got sick..."

Margaret: "Are you feeling better, Markus? You were coughing a lot the last time I saw you..."

Markus: "Yeah, I'm fine. They're honestly worrying over nothing..." He shrugs, shaking his head.

Diona: "I was wondering why you weren't in your uniform... But this is technically a day off for you then, right? Are you sure you want to spend it helping me?"

Markus: "Of course. I had nothing to do anyway."

Klee: "B-but..." She begins to sob. "K-Klee wanted to go fish-blasting with you today!"

Markus: "Klee..." He winces guiltily.

Diona: "Aw c'mon, don't be a baby, Klee. Besides, you were supposed to babysit him, right? When did it turn into you playing with him instead?!"

Klee: "B-but... Uuuh..." She begins to cry.

Diona: She lets out a big groan. "Okay, okay, fiiine. Why don't you come collect ingredients with us, then?"

Klee: "Ooh, ooh, okay!" She perks up instantly, as if she wasn't just sobbing a few seconds ago. "Klee will help by blowing things up for you!"

Diona: "P-please don't blow anything up, nya!"

Margaret: "Heheh... Well, I've got to head back to The Cat's Tail. Have fun playing, Diona!"

Diona: "We're not going to be playing, meow!" She exclaims as she watches Margaret walk back to the tavern.

Albedo: "I've got to head back to the lab, too. Have fun playing, Marku-..."

Markus: "Shut it, Albedo." He cuts him off before Albedo walks off as well.

Klee: "Sooo... where are we going?"

Markus: "Good question. Where you want to go, Diona?" He asks her, while patting the excited Klee on the head.

Diona: "Since we were talking about it earlier, how about Wolvendom? I want to get as far away from the city as I can right now, anyway..."

Markus: "Okay, then. In that case, I'd like to stop by Good Hunter for a bit first."

Diona tilts her head in confusion as Markus walks towards the outdoor restaurant.

Diona: "Alright... but how come?"

Klee: "Oh! Klee knows!" Her eyes sparkle as she dashes towards Good Hunter herself.

Sara: "Good day, Markus. What do you want me to make for you today?"

Markus: "Actually... I was wondering if you'd let me borrow your kitchen for a bit. We'll be heading to Wolvendom."

Sara: She nods, instantly understanding. "Sure thing! Go ahead."

Diona raises an eyebrow, even more confused. Klee jumps and down happily as Markus heads behind the counter.

Diona: "What are you doing?"

Markus: "Oh. Since we're going to Wolvendom, it'd make sense for us to head through the back gate, so we would be passing by the cathedral, but... Since we were near Good Hunter anyway, I figured I'd just borrow their kitchen instead."

Diona: "No, I mean... Why borrow the kitchen at all? What are you making, nya?"

Klee: "He's making hash browns! For Klee, and Razor too!"

Markus: He smiles as he begins cooking. "Since we'll be in Wolvendom, we might as well visit him and have lunch together. He loves these."

Diona: "Huh..." She pauses, and says, "Klee, you were planning on 'babysitting' Markus, but... he looks a lot more like a babysitter than you do..."

Klee: "You think Markus is like a babysitter to Klee, you, and Razor?"

Diona: "N-not me! I don't need a babysitter, nya!"

Sara: "Do you want some Sunsettia jam to add to the hash browns, Markus?" She asks him while he's making them.

Markus: "Sure! How much Mora do you want for the jam?"

Sara: She chuckles at his question, before responding, "Don't be silly! You're making those for the kids; I wouldn't charge you for that!"

Markus: "Oh, okay. Thank you, Sara!"

Sara: "Of course!" She says, placing a small jar of jam next to him before returning to running the counter.

Diona: "Does 'the kids' include me...?"

Markus: "That depends, do you want some too, Diona?"

Diona: "U-uh, no, that's not what I..."

Markus: "Don't be shy. I don't mind making a few for you if you want." He tells her with a warm smile.

Diona: "U-um... well, okay. Sure, I guess, meow..." She turns away bashfully, her ears drooping and her face turning slightly pink. "Thanks, Markus..."

--

After Markus finishes making the hash browns, he packs them up and heads out the back gate with Diona and Klee. The weather is nice and clear, barely a cloud in the sky.

The three follow a dirt path leading toward Wolvendom. Their walk so far is nice and peaceful, almost no monsters appearing on the way there, the few they do come across keeping to themselves.

Markus: "Aah, what a beautiful, calm day... Surely nothing will go amiss on our way to..."

BOOM! Suddenly, they hear something explode behind a nearby hill.

Markus: "... I shouldn't have said anything."

Klee: "O-oh no!" She panics, frantically rummaging through her backpack full of bombs. "... Okay, that wasn't one of Klee's Jumpty Dumpties. Phew..."

Diona: "Of course it wasn't, nya!"

Markus: "This isn't good... Even though I'm not in uniform, I should've brought my bow just in case..."

Diona: "U-uh... I'm sure it's fine. Probably just some Hilichurls messing around, meow. Let's just keep going..."

They both glance to their side... only to see Klee already sprinting up the hill.

Markus: "A-ah! Klee!"

Diona: "C-come back! Don't go running toward the explosion, mya!"

They quickly chase after her, climbing the hill. As they reach the top and look down, they finally see what the cause of the explosion was... a transport slime balloon and its carriage, completely wrecked and on fire.

And lying beside the wreckage are none other than Bennett and Fischl, singed and slightly injured.

Klee: "Oh no, Bennett and Fischl! Are you two okay?!" she cries, running to their sides worriedly.

Diona: "W-what happened here?!"

Markus, unlike Klee and Diona, simply sighs and shrugs.

Markus: "Really, you two? Again?" He utters, as he kneels beside Bennett. "Diona, would you mind helping me patch up these two... klutzes?"

Diona: "Y-yeah... of course..."

Markus and Diona both use their Visions to heal Bennett and Fischl's wounds, the smell of burnt grass and smoke still hanging in the air.

While Bennett still remains on the ground, simply groaning, Fischl immediately gets up, brushing herself off before dramatically posing.

Fischl: "It seems the humble surveyer of the land has come to our aide once more. I, the Prinzessin der Verurteilung, extend to you my deepest gratitude."

Markus: "... What."

Fischl's "night raven familiar" appears from her Vision in a flash of Electro light, perching on her shoulder. He turns his head to Markus and says,

"What Mein Fräulein means to say is that she's most grateful for your assistance, Markus."

Markus: "I... already gathered that, but thanks anyway, Oz. It was technically Diona that healed her, though..."

Fischl: "Ah yes, the concoction mixer of the feline tavern and the explosion bringer are here as well. Greetings to you both."

Markus: "If there's any 'explosion bringer' in this situation, it'd be you or Bennett for sure..."

Fischl: "N-no, that was...!" She stammers, before realizing Bennett is still sprawled on the ground. "A-ah, Bennett!"

Fischl kneels beside him, placing a hand on his shoulder in concern.

Markus: "Don't worry, I'm sure he's fine."

As Bennett finally stirs, Markus and Fischl each take one of his hands to help him back onto his feet.

Bennett: "Oh man, I didn't expect it to explode like that! Sorry, Fischl!"

Markus: "This is far from the first time you've taken on a commission involving a slime balloon carriage, Bennett. Surely you should know better by now."

Bennett: "Heheh, yeah, I guess that's true!" He scratches the back of his head, before blinking in surprise. "Oh, Markus! What are you doing here?"

Markus: "You just now realized I'm here?!" He sighs. "At least tell me that carriage belonged to Hilichurls and not any merchants..."

Bennett: "Don't worry, we were asked to destroy the balloon this time, not protect it..."

Markus: "Well, okay, then. At least you were supposed to..."

Bennett: "... I think?"

Markus: "What do you mean 'you think'?!" He exclaims.

Fischl: "My comrade of the Adventurers' Guild speaks true. We were absolutely meant to destroy it..." She pauses. "... I think."

Markus: "You... think?!" He exclaims again, louder.

Oz: "From what I recall, Mein Fräulein was indeed tasked with destroying a cargo-carrying balloon on this fine afternoon." He confirms calmly.

Fischl: "Many thanks, Oz."

Bennett: "Thanks, Oz!"

Markus: "Thank you, Oz... Even though you shouldn't be the one keeping track of that sort of thing..."

Fischl: "Well, the untimely explosion aside, this was but a simple commission for the Prinzessin."

Bennett: "Yeah, there were surprisingly not that many Hilichurls guarding it this time."

Markus: "... I have a bad feeling about this..."

Diona suddenly hisses, both her ears and tail shooting straight up as she points off in the distance.

Diona: "M-Markus, look!"

A group of Hilichurls come charging towards them, shouting angrily.

Bennett: "Oh no, we didn't defeat all of them!" He takes a step forward... and immediately trips, sprawling on the ground again. "O-oof..."

Markus: "Good grief..." He shakes his head before gathering up a lot of air near his mouth.

His Vision shines bright as he exhales a loud, howling gale which tears through the Hilichurls, destroying one of them and knocking down the others.

Markus: "P-phew..." He holds a hand to his chest as he tries to catch his breath. "I'm not completely helpless without my bow, but..."

Klee: "Klee will help too!"

Diona: "Me too, nya!"

Klee takes out her bombs, while Diona and Fischl draw their bows. Explosions, arrows, and elemental power lights up the air as they take care of the remaining Hilichurls.

Bennett: "W-whoa, that was close. Thanks for your help, Klee and Diona." He says as he slowly gets back up (again). "Wait, you both are here too?"

Markus: "... Seriously, Bennett?" He crosses his arms with another sigh. "Jeez, after today, I'm never leaving home without my bow ever again..."

The others' eyes suddenly widen, mouth agape as a huge shadow looms over Markus. He glances back just in time to see a Mitachurl raising a massive axe above his head.

There's no time for him to react or move. No time for him or the others to even scream. As the axe is about to collide with Markus...

... a crackle of Electro energy surges through the air, as the Mitachurl is suddenly slashed from behind, staggering it.

Klee & Bennett: "Razor!"

With large, purple claws made of electricity, Razor slices through the stunned Mitachurl, bringing it down. The axe falls to the ground as the large monster disappears, between Razor and Markus.

As Razor's crackling claws dissipate, Klee runs over to him and hugs him tightly, while Bennett happily pats him on the back.

Razor: "You okay?" He says to Markus.

Markus: "Y-yeah, thank you, Razor." He answers, shaking a bit from the earlier ordeal.

Klee: "Razor, that was so cool! Klee was so worried about Markus!"

Bennett: "How did you know we were all here?"

Razor: "Lupical sensed my friends were here. I rushed over when I smelled danger."

Diona: "All the way from Wolvendom?!"

Razor: "Yes. Friends important to me. I wanted to make sure you all okay."

Markus: "Razor..."

Klee: "Aw, Razor...!"

Bennett: "Thanks, Razor!"

They all smile at Razor warmly.

Razor: "Also, I used to helping Bennett and princess friend anyway."

Bennett: "Heheh..." He laughs nervously while scratching the back of his head.

Markus: "I-is that so..." He lets out an exasperated groan. "Figures..."

Fischl: "Ahem!" She clears her throat. "It's 'Prinzessin'. Prinzessin der Verurtei-..."

Markus: "Who cares..."

"Hey! What happened here?!"

Someone hollers from atop a nearby hill, rushing towards them and the scorched carriage.

Markus: "A-ah... It's Amber..." He says uneasily. "Of course she had to be patrolling this area..."

Amber: "Seriously, Markus?! You're out and about while you're supposed to be resting? Again?!" She stops in front of him, placing her hands on her hips as she scolds him.

Markus: "Hey, I was only intending on helping Diona collect some stuff at Wolvendom for her... drinks. This just... kind of happened on the way..."

Bennett: "Markus was only trying to help me and Fischl. Please don't get mad at him, Amber..."

Amber: "Hm... well, okay. You should've at least brought your bow with you, Markus..."

Markus: "I know, trust me... I've definitely learned my lesson after today..."

Klee: "Amber, listen! Razor took down a big Hilichurl... all by himself!" She suddenly chimes in, jumping up and down excitedly. "Like... whoosh! It's too bad you didn't get to see it!"

Amber: "Really? Thanks for helping them, Razor!" She says to him cheerfully.

Razor doesn't respond, looking away shyly.

Bennett: His stomach suddenly growls. "I'm hungry."

Markus: He sighs. "You really know how to kill the mood, don't you...?"

Klee: "Markus made some food! Can we take a break here to eat?"

Markus: "Sure, if that's fine with everyone else. It's a good thing I made extra in case we ran into Bennett and Fischl..."

Diona: "You were really that prepared, nya?!"

Amber: "In case you didn't make enough, I could cook up some of my specialty Outrider Steak too!"

Bennett: "Wow, really? I really appreciate it, you guys!"

Markus: "Yeah, thanks Amber." He says to her before turning to Razor. "I made some hash browns. You want some?"

Razor: "You made... hash browns?" He gasps, eyes widening. "Thank you, Markus."

Markus nods happily as the others start preparing for lunch. Amber sets up her supplies to make her steaks, while Diona helps out. Markus, meanwhile, "helps" by keeping Klee and Bennett as far away from the cooking as possible... to make sure something else isn't accidentally scorched.

Amber: "Ah, Markus, the well-renowned Babysitter of Mond." She teases him while in the middle of cooking. "I guess you really are deserving of your title after all! I'm kind of jealous, actually."

Markus: "Hang on, when was I given such a title?!"

Amber: She simply laughs in response. "That being said, don't overexert yourself, especially after recovering from being sick. I know these five look up to you, and rely on you a lot, but..."

Markus: "Nah, that's not quite true." He cuts her off, smirking. "There's... one that I'm sure helps out a lot more than I help them."

Amber: "Oh? And who would that be?"

Markus: "Well..."

Klee: "You're talking about Klee, right?"

Markus: "Um... no. Sorry, but I wasn't talking about you..."

Diona: "Don't be stupid, Klee. He obviously meant me, meow!"

Markus: "I'm sorry, but it's not you, either..."

Fischl: "Absurd! He is clearly referring to I, the Prinzessin!"

Markus: "Absolutely not."

Bennett: "No, you're talking about me, right Markus?"

Markus says nothing, giving Bennett an unamused look.

Bennett: "Haha, I was just kidding... It's Razor, isn't it?"

Markus: "Yes, that's right."

Razor: "H-huh?" He mutters in surprise. "M-me? Really?"

Klee: "That makes sense! Razor always plays with Klee, even when she blows up some rocks and bushes by accident!"

Fischl: "Indeed. The wolf whisperer has lended me his aid on many an occasion."

Diona: "Y-yeah... And it's thanks to him that Papa and the others can hunt in the forest without having to worry about the wolves..." Even she admits.

Razor stares down at the ground, blushing in embarrassment at their statements.

Markus: "If I really do have to be the 'Babysitter of Mond', then it's very reassuring to have someone so reliable around." He chuckles, placing a comforting hand on Razor's shoulder. "Thank you, Razor."

Chapter End