Bandaged Heart
Amber: "Markus, it's so exciting! I'm so excited! Aren't you excited?!"

Markus: "And why is that, Amber?"

Amber: "Because it's Ludi Harpastum, duh! You know that!"

Markus bursts into laughter, partially because of his own teasing, but also because of Amber's infectious, cheerful mood.

Markus: "Heheh... You're always so... excitable around this time of year, huh?"

Amber: "It's not just because of the festival! We'll have a lot of guests from other regions, as usual, so we'll be tasked with patrolling the city every evening to make sure they're all safe... together! We're almost always split up for our usual patrols nowadays, so it'll be just like old times!"

Markus: "Yeah... The last time we were supposed to work together I... got sick..." He looks away guiltily. "Once again, I'm really sorry about that..."

Amber: "That's okay! I mean, you're not sick this time, right? ... Er, you're not, are you?"

Markus: "No, I'm perfectly fine. No need to worry."

Amber: "You sure...?" She eyes him with mock suspicion. "You haven't been overworking yourself to the bone, right? You haven't, right?"

Markus: "I haven't, I haven't, I promise!"

Amber: "Good! Because not only wouldn't you be able to work, you'd miss out on enjoying the festival, too!"

Markus: "Well, Ludi Harpastum will last almost half of the month, so even if I became ill for a few days..."

Amber: "Markus."

Markus: "Okay, fine, I get it!"

Amber giggles, while Markus shakes his head with a groan.

Amber: "We'll do our best to make sure everyone stays safe this year! 'cause we're the best Outrider duo in all of Mond, after all!"

Markus: "We'd better be, since we're the only ones..."

Amber: "Urgh, yeah..." She winces. "Still..."

Markus: "O-oh... Sorry, didn't mean to bring the mood down..."

Amber: "That's okay!"

She dramatically raises a fist in the air.

Amber: "I can feel it, Markus! This year will be the year, that we're so impressive with our work, that we'll inspire even more people to become Outriders!"

Markus: "I feel you said the same thing last year... Like, verbatim."

Amber: "Don't be silly, there's no way I said it the same exact way!"

~~

One year ago...

Amber: "Hmph!"

One calm and peaceful night, Amber's grumbling echoes through the air as she exits the Knights of Favonius's headquarters in a huff.

Amber: "I can't believe, after all this time, they still treat us like rookies! And I promised Markus we'd surely..."

Markus: "Oh, you're finally back, Amber." He says, while sitting on a nearby step.

Amber: "A-ah! Sorry for keeping you waiting so long, especially this late at night..."

Markus: "It's no problem." He utters, hopping off the step before stretching, turning towards her. "How did the meeting go?"

Amber: "U-uh..." She looks away, scratching the back of her head nervously. "U-um..."

Markus: "It didn't go well?"

Amber: "O-of course it did! And I have good news!" She tries her best to feign a confident pose. "You know that a lot of guests from other regions will be visiting Mond for Ludi Harpastum this year, right?"

Markus: "I know that, obviously."

Amber: "Well, we've been given an important task during it! And that is..."

Markus: "... That is?"

Amber: "To patrol the perimeter of the city!"

Markus: "..."

Amber: "..."

Markus: "Isn't that... basically the same as what we always do?"

Amber: "E-er..." She frowns, her head drooping. "Y-yeah..."

Markus: "So, as usual, we're not given any special tasks during times like this... Or at all..."

Amber: "Argh!" She suddenly exclaims, pouting. "I promised you things would be different this time!"

Markus: "Hey, calm down! It's not that big of a deal..."

Amber: "As your senior Outrider, I feel sooo ashamed...!"

Markus: "U-uh, well... Why don't we look on the bright side instead of moping?"

Amber: "And what would the 'bright side' be, Markus?"

Markus: "U-um..." He pauses, thinking about it. "W-well... if we find it, we should... definitely look at it..."

Amber: She sighs. "I guess all we can do is keep working hard... so they finally realize how reliable we truly are!"

Markus: "R-right."

Amber: "I can feel it, Markus! This year will be the year, that we're so impressive with our work, that we'll inspire even more people to become Outriders!"

Markus: "You really think so?"

Amber: "What, you don't?"

Markus: "I-I... well..."

Amber: "Hm?"

Markus: "I-I vowed to help you reach your ultimate goal... of bringing the Outriders to their former glory." He states, trying his best to put on a serious expression. "And I'll do everything in my power to make that happen. Y-you can count on me!"

Amber blinks a few times in silence, before a huge grin spreads across her face, pulling him into a hug.

Amber: "Awww, you've become so capable, haven't you, Markus?" She giggles while playfully ruffling his hair. "That speech was so adorable~!"

Markus: "H-hey, quit it, Amber!" He says while blushing lightly in embarrassment. "I was trying to be serious, y'know?!"

Amber: "Yeah, I know! I'm so proud to have you as my junior Outrider."

She smiles at him warmly... before ruffling his hair even more.

Amber: "Heheh!"

Markus: "T-that's enough! Jeez!"

Markus makes a small noise of protest, pushing her away before smoothing his hair back down. Amber laughs as he tries to salvage what's left of his composure, though he can't help visibly pouting.

Amber: "Come to think of it, you've officially been one for over a year already. We should hold a festival to celebrate!"

Markus: "U-um, shouldn't we have celebrated it when it'd been exactly a year? And we're already going to be having the Ludi Harpastum festival, so that'd feel a bit redundant..."

Amber: "Alright! You've made me super motivated!" She proclaims, raising a fist in the air. "Let's patrol around the cathedral one more time before bed!"

Markus: "Yes! Okay!" He raises his own fist in response, before they begin making their last rounds.

--

In the wide, open plaza below the steps leading to the cathedral, the giant statue of the Anemo Archon looms over them, bathed in the light of the moon and shimmering stars above.

Amber: "It's crazy how empty this area feels at night. I bet I'd hear an echo if I shouted really loud!"

Markus: "Please, don't actually do that..."

Amber: "Why not? It's fine, there's no one else even here right n-..."

She stops after noticing a small, hooded figure, looking up at the looming statue.

Amber: "... Never mind."

Markus: "What's with those clothes? Are they from another region?"

Amber: "Surely a visitor here for Ludi Harpastum! But why are they out here so late, all alone?"

Markus: "Looks like a kid. We should report this to the Knights after we're done with our rounds..."

Before he continues to move again, Amber pulls him back by tugging at his collar.

Amber: "No, Markus. We'll show them how useful us Outriders are... by helping that child!" She states, before marching toward the cloaked figure.

Markus: "Good grief..." He utters, reluctantly following her.

Amber: "Excuse me! What are you doing out here by yourself, when it's so dark out? Are you lost? You're not from Mond, right?"

"Leave me alone." The hooded figure snaps, glaring at Amber harshly.

Amber winces guiltily, while Markus merely scoffs at the attitude.

Amber: "Oh no, I didn't expect that reaction..." She frowns, tilting her head. "But what is this... strange, familiar feeling...?"

Markus: "Welp, looks like she wants us to leave her be, Amber. Let's go..."

Amber: "Markus, we can't just give up! We can't leave this child here all by herself!"

Hooded Girl: "Don't call me a child!"

Markus: "Why not? How old are you, shorty?"

Hooded Girl: "I'm 13."

Amber: "R-really?! But you're so small! U-uh, no offense..."

Markus: "Wow, 13, huh? Barb'll be happy I found someone her age that's so much shorter than her..."

Amber: "Hey, quit it, this girl's not that short."

Hooded Girl: "Don't call me 'this girl' either."

Amber: "I'm sorry. But... I don't know what your name is..."

Hooded Girl: She groans. "It's Collei."

Amber: "Collei, is it? Nice to meet you!" She gives her a friendly smile. "I'm Amber, and this grump is Markus."

Markus: "Don't call me a grump." He pouts.

Amber: "Stop acting like one, then."

Markus: "Hmph."

Amber: "Do you need help with anything? You can count on us! We're the best Outriders in all of Mond, after all!"

Markus: "Because we're the only ones..." He shrugs.

Collei: "I don't care. Leave me alone, I said!" She growls, turning away from them.

Markus: "This is a waste of time, Amber."

Amber: "You don't want to help her?"

Markus: "I don't like her attitude. And she clearly doesn't want our help anyway, so..."

Amber: "Jeez." She turns to Collei. "Hey, c'mon, don't be like that. I just want to..."

Collei senses Amber's about to place a hand on her shoulder, and instinctively jumps away.

Amber: "W-whoa!"

Collei: "Don't touch me!" She hisses.

The movement causes her hood to slip off, revealing her face.

Amber: "Y-your face, it's covered in bandages! Are you alright? Are you hurt?!"

Collei: "I'm... cursed." She utters hesitantly, taking another small step back. "I'm... one of the unclean. You'd be wise to stay away from me."

Amber: "Uh... what? Cursed?" She tilts her head in confusion. "Markus, do you think we should take her to the cathedral? She might be..."

Markus: "As if. Seriously, 'unclean'? What kind of books have you been reading, kid?" He mutters under his breath. "So cringe..."

Markus takes a few steps toward Collei, squinting and bending down toward eye level.

Collei: "Y-you too! Stay back!"

Amber: "Markus, don't pick on her."

Markus: "It looks like you've got bandages all over the place, actually. But, as I thought, you don't look injured or anything..."

Collei: "Don't lay a finger on me. Or... you'll end up cursed, too!"

Markus: "Uh huh."

He gives Collei a quick poke on her forehead... before falling to the ground, clutching his hand.

Markus: "Gah! My hand! I'm in pain!"

Amber gasps in worry, and even Collei's eyes widen.

Amber: "M-Markus!?"

Collei: "...!"

Markus: "It burns! It BURNS! I'm totally cursed now!"

He suddenly gets up calmly, as if nothing happened. He sticks out his tongue, scratching the back of his head.

Markus: "Just kiddi-..."

Amber: "Not funny." She scolds him, hitting Markus with a light chop on the head.

Collei hides behind the other side of the statue, now out of sight of the two of them.

Amber: "Markus! Look what you did!"

Markus: "Feh. She's just some edgy kid. It's not a big deal..."

Amber: "You can't mess with her like you do with Barbara! What if you hurt her even more?"

Markus: "What's that supposed to mean?! And I took a closer look at her earlier. She looks kinda pale, but she seems fine otherwise..."

They both glance over to the statue, noticing Collei poking her head out from behind it, eyeing them warily.

Amber: "Oh, good, she's still here. Markus, say you're sorry."

Markus: "No way."

Amber: "Apologize. Now."

Markus groans upon noticing the look on Amber's face, her anger increasing.

Markus: "O-okay, okay, jeez...!" He shakes his head. "U-uh, Collei, was it? I'm sorry if I... hurt you. Come out... please."

She says nothing, glaring at him.

Markus: "Fair enough." He sighs. "Why were you here alone, looking up at the Anemo Archon statue? You were staring pretty intensely..."

She stiffens, shaking a bit.

Collei: "You Vision holders... feel you can make light of everything just because you've been blessed by the Archons..."

Markus: "Huh? What're you talking about...?"

Collei: "I came here looking for something... But I know I won't find it here. So you two won't be able to help me..."

As Markus watches Collei begin to walk away, Amber suddenly beams.

Amber: "You're looking for something, Collei? Because we'll for sure be able to help! Isn't that right, Markus?"

Markus: "H-huh?! But she just said she couldn't find it here..."

Collei: "Yes, exactly. So..."

Amber: "This plaza's really big, so searching on the ground will definitely take you a long time. So... why not look from above instead?"

Amber grins, while Markus looks uneasy.

Markus: "Y-you're not suggesting...?"

Amber: "Our city has a really big cathedral, that overlooks this whole area! If we go up on the roof, it'll be much easier to search for what you lost!"

Collei: "Listen, when I said I was 'looking for something' I didn't mean it like tha-..."

Amber: "It's a great idea! Right, Markus?"

Markus: "Amber, have you forgotten? The cathedral doors are locked during the night."

Amber: "True, but I know a certain junior Outrider that lives at the cathedral, and as such has a key to open its doors." She smirks.

Markus: "Are you crazy?! I don't want to get in trouble for letting you up there again! Do you want me to get my key confiscated?"

Amber: "We have an important reason this time! Besides, I'm sure it's worth the risk, since you feel very, very sorry for picking on Collei earlier, and want to make it up to her..." She crosses her arms in a huff. "Right?"

Markus: "Ugggh." He slumps in defeat. "Fine, whatever..."

Amber: "Alright! In that case, let's go!"

--

Amber: "Amazing! The view from up here's incredible, especially at night~!" She says cheerfully, her arms stretched out as she steps past the campanile.

Unlike Amber, the elevation makes Collei uneasy, shivering as she follows slowly behind the two Outriders.

Collei: "Is it really necessary for us to be up here...?"

Amber: "Are you not comfortable with high places, Collei? I'm sorry!" She spins around to face the hooded girl. "Why not come over here and take my hand? I'll make sure you don't fall!"

Collei is startled by a sudden, sharp breeze that almost makes her topple over. She instinctively clutches Markus's arm for support.

Markus: "..."

Amber: "Aw, why'd you grab Markus's arm for?" She pouts in jealousy.

Collei: "He seems like... the more grounded of the two of you..."

Amber: "But he was being such a meanie to you before!"

Collei says nothing, clutching Markus's arm tighter.

Markus: "Stop it, you're hurting me..."

Collei: "Y-you're so annoying. Why couldn't you have just minded your own business..."

Markus: "Hey, I really don't appreciate the way you've been talking to Amber." He growls irritably. "I know she can be pretty... stubborn, but she's only trying to help, y'know!"

Collei: "I didn't ask for your help!"

Markus: "Yeah? Why did you willingly follow us up to the cathedral roof, then?"

Collei: "Mmngh..."

Amber: "Darn. I was hoping getting to see the courtyard from this high up would brighten her spirits, but she keeps looking away from it..."

Markus: "Not everyone shares your love of high places, Amber..."

Collei: "Only the truly blessed can enjoy sights above like this. As I thought, this is no place for a mere worm like me..."

Amber: "Huh?"

Markus: "'Mere worm'? What's that about?" He scoffs again. "Yet another cringey line..."

Amber: "Knock it off, Markus."

Markus: "Hmph."

Amber: "... Wait, I just thought of a great idea!" Her eyes suddenly gleam in excitement.

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

Amber: "I haven't even told you what it is yet!"

Markus: "Fine, fine. What's your great idea?"

Amber: "Collei's probably scared because she's not used to being in high places. So... I thought of a really fun way to help her get over that fear!"

She smiles widely, unfurling her glider.

Amber: "Let's glide down with her, Markus! We'll be able to soar so far from this height!"

Markus: "I-I think that's a terrible idea...!"

Amber: "Aw, why do you think that?"

Markus: "Because you're just scaring Collei even more! It feels like she's gonna twist my arm off!" He cries, Collei clutching his arm tight enough that her hands begin to turn white. "Owww!"

Amber: "Calm down, Collei, I'm sorry! At least twist my arm instead!"

Markus: "Are you really that jealous, Amber...?"

Amber unfurls Markus's glider for him, before stepping to the side of Collei opposite Markus, gently wrapping her arm around Collei's.

Collei: "S-stop! Is this some kind of twisted joke?!"

Amber: "Don't worry, if you get hurt, Markus can heal you."

Markus: "Hey, my healing is barely good enough to heal Bennett's scrapes! I'm not Barb!"

Amber: "I was just kidding! We'll be fine Collei, Markus and I have glided off of here plenty of times."

Markus sighs, gently wrapping his arm around Collei's free one.

Collei: "A-are we seriously doing this...?" She stammers, her face turning pale.

Amber: "Heheh!"

Markus: "With that look in her eyes? She's definitely serious." He responds dryly.

Collei: "T-t-this is insane! You're going to kill me!"

While gripping each of Collei's arms, Amber and Markus both jump off the roof, slowly gliding through the air. Collei's eyes clamp shut, not wanting to look down.

Amber: "Don't close your eyes, Collei! You won't be able to see this great view!"

Collei: "A-a-ah...!"

She reluctantly opens them, her expression quickly changing from tense fear to calm awe.

Collei: "Wow..."

Amber: "See? Cool, huh? Don't worry, we'll make sure to hang onto you tight the whole way down, so just relax and enjoy the trip!"

Collei: "I never thought I'd ever get to experience something like this. If I were to die now, maybe it wouldn't be so bad..."

Markus: "Honestly, enough of that morbid talk. Even I didn't say things like that when I was 13." He softens a bit, starting to grow concerned. "I'm sure you'll end up seeing even greater sights like this someday. You've still got a long life ahead of you, after all."

Collei looks away, biting her lip.

Markus: "...?"

Amber: "Uh, Markus?"

Markus: "Yeah? What's up?"

Amber: "So, uh... We're not gliding as far as I expected."

Markus: "You've got 'extra weight' attached to you this time, so that makes sense. Why, is that a problem?"

Amber: "Well... It means our landing spot will be different than planned."

Markus: "Oh... Where will we be landi-..."

He looks down and gasps before he finishes speaking, realizing what's directly below them. Lisa sits at a small table, relaxing and drinking some tea, in an area outside of the library. Her eyes widen once she spots the Outriders overhead.

Lisa: "Oh my."

Markus desperately attempts to pedal his legs back to redirect them somewhere else, but it obviously doesn't work. Amber helps Collei land safely on the grass, while Markus ends up "landing" face-first in a bush.

Lisa: "Now, what were the two of you young Outriders doing gliding at night? Hopefully you weren't being naughty and playing when you should be in bed."

Amber: "N-no, Miss Lisa, we weren't playing! We were just doing something fun to cheer up our new friend Collei, honest!"

Lisa: "Hm, is that so?" Lisa crosses her arms with a smirk. "Would this 'Collei' be that girl meekly hiding behind you?"

Amber gasps softly as she notices Collei peeking out from behind her back.

Amber: "C-Collei, are you... afraid of Miss Lisa?" She giggles lightly. "Don't worry, she's only really scary if you forget to return an overdue library book!"

Lisa: "And just what is that supposed to mean, Amber?"

Collei: "..."

"Lisa? Who's here at this hour?"

The library door suddenly opens, an unexpected face stepping forward.

Amber: "Ah, it's Miss Jean!"

Markus: "S-S-Si-...!"

Markus leaps up out of the bush, quickly brushing himself off and adopting a firm, serious stance.

Jean: "Oh, it's Outrider Amber. And..." She pauses. "O-Outrider Markus, greetings. What brings the two of you here so late?"

Collei eyes Markus, puzzled by his unusually stiff posture.

Collei: "Who... is that?"

Amber: "You don't know?! She's the legendary 'Dandelion Knight' of Mond. One of the most impressive Knights of Favonius!" She explains with a smile. "Also, she's Markus's ol-..."

Amber is interrupted by an awkward cough from Markus.

Jean: "... Calling me 'legendary' may be a bit much, Amber." She laughs nervously. "Nevertheless, welcome to Mond. We'll be happy to help you with anything you need during your stay here for the festival."

Collei: "Festival?"

Jean: "Are... you not visiting for Ludi Harpastum?"

Collei: "A-a-ah!" She shakes her head. "U-uh, you don't need to worry about me. I... I don't need help with anything..."

Jean: "Are you sure? Why are you covered in bandages? Are you alri-..."

Collei: "U-u-um! This girl, uh... Amber? Y-yes. She's already in the middle of helping me with... something. I don't want to trouble anyone else with my problems, so..."

Amber's eyes sparkle with excitement.

Amber: "You finally trust me enough to help you, then?! I knew that glide was a great idea, Markus!"

Markus: "H-huh? Oh, yeah, right..."

Lisa peers at Collei with a glint in her eye, causing Collei to shrink back behind Amber again.

Lisa: "Fufu... Well, if Amber has already agreed to help her, then let's just leave it in the hands of our dear Outrider. Right, Jean?"

Jean: "Hm... very well, then. I suppose we are preoccupied with something else at the moment, anyway..."

Amber: "Preoccupied with something? This late at night?"

Jean: "Yes, I was helping Lisa with some research, before we decided to take a break for a bit. I figured it was a better use of my time than attending that party..."

Amber: "P-party? What party?! Why weren't Markus and I invited?"

Jean: "Heheh, it's being held at Dawn Winery, Amber. And the... both of you are too young to drink..."

Amber: "O-oh, heh..." She scratches the back of her head. "So, Miss Jean, that means you're not just here to visit Miss Lisa?"

Lisa: "If only. It would be wonderful if my good friend came by to visit me more often..."

Jean: "Sorry, I'm too busy to make time for many casual visits these days..."

Lisa: "I know, I'm only teasing." She chuckles. "In all seriousness, we're both in the middle of researching something regarding an incident that happened this morning."

Amber: "This morning?"

Lisa: "Yes. What appeared to be a dark, flaming serpent attacked a carriage containing two Sneznhayan visitors."

Amber: "W-what?!"

Collei: "...!" She shudders, gripping Amber's arm, startling the Outrider.

Amber: "Oh, did I yell too loud? Sorry if I scared you..."

Collei: "N-no, it's fine..."

Lisa: "..."

Jean: "Is something wrong, Lisa?"

Lisa: "I was just thinking... Perhaps it wouldn't be a bad idea to have them stay for a while to help with our research."

Jean: "T-them? As in, Outrider Amber, and..."

Lisa: "Markus, of course. And our new little visitor as well, if she'd be so kind..."

Jean: "Is that... really such a good idea?"

Lisa: "Oh? Why, do you think it's not?"

Jean: "Well... it's pretty late. And they're young enough that they should really be getting some rest..."

Lisa: "Your concern for Collei is understandable, but Amber and Markus are Outriders. They're Knights of Favonius, like you, so you shouldn't treat them like children. Unless..." She smirks. "You're feeling biased because Markus is your..."

Jean: "Lisa! Please, enough with the jokes!"

Lisa: "Who said I was joking?" She chuckles again, before turning to face the others. "So then, would you all like to help out?"

Amber: "Of course, I don't mind! If there's anything this humble Outrider can do to assist with the incident, feel free to ask... Is what I'd like to say, but..." She frowns, glancing over to Markus. "What do you think?"

Markus: "I-I... I'm not sure..." He mutters quietly, biting his lip nervously.

Amber notices Collei suddenly grip her arm tighter, grabbing Amber's attention.

Amber: "What's wrong, Collei?"

Collei: "U-uh... let's.... not go in there."

Amber: "Why not?"

Collei: "U-um, uh... it's just a place full of books, right? I can't read. So I doubt I'll be of much help to any of you..."

Amber: "Don't worry, I'm sure we can find a way for you to help out even if you can't read any of the books in there!" She says, happily taking Collei's hand. "Let's go!"

Collei: "A-ah! No, that's not what I...!"

With her other hand, Amber takes Markus's in hers.

Amber: "It'll be alright, Markus. Let's show them how reliable us Outriders can be!" She gives him a reassuring smile.

Markus slowly relaxes, giving Amber a small smile of his own.

Markus: "... Yeah, okay. Thanks, Amber."

Lisa: "Wonderful! Looks like I found us some reliable helpers!"

Jean: She lets out a deep sigh, bringing a hand to her face. "Just what exactly are you up to, Lisa?"

Lisa: "Fufufu, whatever do you mean~?"

--

Amber: "So, what exactly are we researching?"

She asks curiously, as everyone takes a seat at a big table in the library. Except for Jean.

Lisa: "You're as restless as ever. Why not take a seat with all of us?"

Jean: "I'm fine like this. Continue."

Amber: "Gosh, Miss Jean is always ready to spring into action, even this late at night! Our Dandelion Knight is so impressive!"

Markus: "..."

Lisa: "It won't be very 'impressive' once her legs give out..." She shakes her head. "Anyhow, we were researching the origin of that dark serpent. It wasn't anything we've ever seen in Mond."

Amber: "Even you've never seen anything like it before, Miss Lisa?! I don't know how much help we'll be, then!" She exclaims in disbelief.

Lisa: She laughs lightly. "I may be the librarian, but even I haven't read every book in our library. Some of these books have been here for a long time, so one of them may offer some insight into the cause of the incident."

Amber: "You really think so?"

Lisa: "Well, if not, there's always... other ways of doing research. For example... via interrogation."

Under Lisa's gaze, Collei pulls her hood over her head, shrinking down into her chair discomfortingly.

Amber: "Interrogation? But none of us have seen anything like that either... Right, Markus? Collei?"

Collei: "..."

Markus: "... Are you okay?"

Collei: "H-huh?!" She bolts up a bit in surprise, not expecting him attention to be focused on her.

Amber: "Markus, don't be mean to her again."

Markus: "I-I'm not! I was just asking...!"

Lisa: "Sweetie, you haven't been picking on her, have you? That's not nice." She scolds him.

Markus blushes in shame, burying his face in his hands.

Markus: "Stop it, please... D-don't say that in front of..."

He glances toward Jean, before quickly looking away.

Jean: "..."

Collei: "I-I'm... so tired..."

Amber: "You are? Oh, of course, it's really late right now! I'm sorry!" She frowns apologetically. "You can take a nap if you want."

Collei: "U-uh... I..."

Markus: "Here? Surrounded by strangers? This is hardly a very comfortable place for a nap..."

Collei: "Eh?"

Amber: "You think so? But she's surrounded by her new friends! And the tables at the library are super comfy for sleeping on; I know from experience!"

Markus: "From experience? What do you mean by..."

He's cut off by the sound of Collei's head hitting the table softly.

Amber: "See? I knew she'd follow my advice!"

Lisa: "Fufu, I don't think it was you that caused her to lower her guard, Amber." She smirks, eyes focused on Markus.

Amber: "What?"

Markus simply tilts his head in confusion.

Collei: "Zzz..." She falls asleep almost immediately, snoring loudly.

Amber: "Oh, wow, she must've been really tired! I feel bad about dragging her in here now..."

Lisa: "Hm..." She makes a sly smile, turning to Jean. "Pardon me, Jean?"

Jean: "Huh? What is it, Lisa?" She asks, moving her head away from the open book in her hands.

Lisa: "Since you're already standing, mind bringing over some more books for the table?"

Jean: "Already? But we only just begun with the ones we brought over a few minutes ago..."

Lisa: "I know, but... There's a couple older volumes I'd like to cross-check. In the bookshelf near the main entrance."

Jean: "In the bookshelf near the... That's the farthest one from where we are right now."

Lisa: "Yes."

Jean's eyes squint in suspicion, while Lisa gives her a calm, bright grin.

Jean: "... I understand. Very well, then..." She places down the book she was reading, before stepping away to grab the books Lisa requested.

Collei: "Mnnh..." She mumbles in her sleep, tugging a bit on Markus's sleeve.

Amber: "Aw, why can't she tug on my sleeve instead?"

Markus: "You sure get jealous about the strangest things..." He peers down at Collei. "I can't move my arm at all like this..."

Lisa: "You could simply tug your arm away."

Markus: "B-but..."

Amber: "You're being surprisingly gentle with her now, Markus."

Markus: "What do you mean 'surprisingly'?" He pouts.

Lisa: "By the way, could I ask you both where you found her?"

Amber: "We found her only about an hour ago. Standing alone, under the statue of the Anemo Archon..."

Lisa: "Alone?"

Amber: "Yeah. She said she was looking for something. We... still haven't helped her find it yet, though..." She laughs nervously.

Lisa: "Is that so...?" She places a hand to her chin, raising an eyebrow.

Markus: "Yep. Such a weird kid..."

Amber: "Hey!"

Markus: "It's fine. She's asleep right now." He scoffs quietly. "It's hard to believe she was saying such dramatic, cringey things earlier, when she's sleeping so peacefully now..."

Lisa: "Oh? What kind of things?"

Markus: He clears his throat. "Don't lay a finger on me... or you'll be cursed! I am 'unclean', so you'd be wise to stay away from me!"

He coughs, a tad embarrassed to have said all that.

Markus: "Erm, yeah. Stuff like that..."

Lisa: "Hm..."

Amber: "He was being such a meanie to her! He made her all grumpy, and hide from us!"

Markus: "She was already 'grumpy' before I said anything to her! She yelled at you to leave her alone as soon as you approached her the first time!"

Amber: "And you were even grumpier than her! Why's that? You're not normally that mean, especially to kids!"

Markus: "W-well... I..."

Lisa: "From what you said... she seems to remind me of how a certain someone used to act..." She snickers. "Could that have anything to do with it, sweetie?"

Markus: "What's that supposed to mean?! And stop calling me 'sweetie'..."

Amber: "With all those bandages, it's possible she could've been hurt, or sick!"

Markus: "Yeah, but she's fine. It could just be some... weird form of cosplay or something...?"

Lisa: "No."

Her expression turns serious, surprising Amber and Markus.

Amber: "Eh?"

Lisa: "She is sick. With Eleazar."

Markus: "W-wha...!?"

Amber: "'Eleazar'? What is that, Miss Lisa?"

Markus: "Is it... a serious illness?"

Lisa: "..." She pauses, before answering. "Calling it a 'serious illness' would be an understatement."

Amber gasps in shock, while Markus remains silent, visibly flinching.

Lisa: "If she receives no proper care or treatment, she may not have much longer to live."

Amber: "Is that really true?!" She exclaims, springing up from her chair.

Markus: "H-how do you know for sure she has that specific illness?"

Lisa: "Judging from her garb, she seems to be from Sumeru, and not a very well-off citizen. And Eleazar is, unfortunately, a fairly common illness among the poor in that region. From the way you told me she was acting, and those bandages... there's no doubt about it."

Amber: "N-no way..."

Markus bites his lip, clenching his fist, as he watches Collei sleep beside him.

Lisa: "I studied at Sumeru's Akademiya for many years, so I know a lot about that illness. Much more than I wish I did..."

Amber: "Then that means you can do something to help Collei, right?!"

Lisa: "... I'm not a doctor, Amber."

Amber: "Please, Miss Lisa!" She begs.

Lisa: She lets out a deep exhale. "I'll see what I can do. However, I'd like to ask the both of you a favor."

Amber: "What is it?"

Lisa: "Don't tell anyone else that Collei has Eleazar."

Amber: "Why not? Wouldn't it be better to let as many people know as possible to try and help her?"

Lisa: "In Sumeru, there are a lot of... superstitions surrounding Eleazar. They claim it's contagious, and those afflicted are 'cursed'. As such, those with Eleazar are left untreated, and are ostracized by society."

Amber: "T-that's terrible!"

Lisa: "Fortunately, it being contagious isn't actually true, and I doubt many in Mond know of Eleazar. But... it's better to be safe than sorry. I'd imagine this little one's been through enough already."

Markus: "..."

--

Jean: "I'm back, Lisa."

She says as she returns with some old books, which she gently places on the table.

Lisa: "Oh? You were gone a while. Did you have trouble looking for the books I asked you to find?"

Jean: "Lisa... I know you better than that. You just wanted me to step away for a while, right?"

Lisa: "So you figured me out, huh?" She laughs. "It's already been a couple minutes since we finished our conversation, though."

Jean: "That's alright, I was doing some research by myself while I waited."

Lisa: "Come take a seat this time, Jean. Give your poor legs a break for once."

Jean notices the other three, sitting across from where Lisa is seated. Collei is still sleeping, and now Amber is as well. Markus has his head buried in a book, struggling to keep his eyes open.

Jean: She lets out a tired sigh. "Okay..."

She reluctantly takes a seat next to Lisa, taking and opening one of the books.

Lisa: "Sweetie, you can sleep too, if you're tired." She laughs again. "Or are you that absorbed in that book?"

Markus: "H-huh?"

Startled, Markus lifts his head up and notices Jean has returned. He glances to his side, and notices Amber has fallen asleep, lying peacefully on the table next to him.

Markus: "From experience, huh? You sure do..." He utters in disbelief.

Lisa: "I suppose Amber isn't nearly as fond of reading as you are, sweetie."

Markus stifles a chuckle, too embarrassed to openly laugh in front of Jean.

Lisa: "If you're planning on staying awake for a bit longer, why don't I make you some tea, sweetie?" She says with a smile, before slowly standing up. "Would you like some too, Jean?"

Jean: "W-wait, let me prepare the..."

Lisa: "Nonsense, you just sat down!" She cuts Jean off before she can protest further. "I'll be back in a bit."

Jean watches Lisa step away, before she slumps her head in resignation.

Markus: "...!" He lifts his head up and freezes, realizing that Lisa left Jean "alone" with him.

Jean: "T-that Lisa...! She definitely did this intentionally...!" She mutters quietly to herself.

Markus buries his head in his book again, purposely focusing on it even more in an attempt to let the situation pass... so unsubtly that Jean clearly notices.

Jean: She lets out another sigh, in an attempt to calm herself. "U-u-um... Markus?"

Markus: "..."

Jean: "S-so... How have things been... if you don't mind me asking?"

Markus pokes his head out nervously, taking a while to respond.

Markus: "U-u-uh... Amber and I have been diligently patrolling around the city, for the s-sake of our guests for the festival, as requested of us." He tells her stiffly. "U-us Outriders will always do our best for the sake of Mond... S-Si... er, Miss Jean."

Jean: "H-hold on, that's not what I...!"

Markus: "...?"

Jean: "N-no... never mind." She frowns, her grip tightening on the edge of her book as she lowers her gaze. "Thank you for your hard work... Outrider Markus."

There's a long, awkward silence between the two of them. While it only lasts a few minutes, it feels like an eternity passes before Lisa returns.

Lisa: "Did you both have a nice chat while I was gone~?"

Lisa quickly notices the current mood in the room, her grin turning into a frown, as she sighs in disappointment.

Lisa: "Oh dear..."

She places down a tray, containing a kettle and a few teacups, next to them on the table. As she's about to begin pouring tea, Jean suddenly speaks up.

Jean: "P-perhaps... it would be wise for you to call it a day, Outrider Markus."

Lisa: "Oh? But I was about to prepare some tea for him..."

Jean: "It's really late, and both him and Amber have to get up early for their patrols."

Markus: "..." His eyes droop downward, remaining silent.

Lisa: She lets out another deep exhale, before responding. "Jean, you have your own duties to attend to first thing in the morning, do you not?"

Jean: "B-but, I...!"

Lisa: "I feel like it's rather cruel to..."

Markus: "T-that's okay, Lisa...!" He states, louder than intended, before getting up from his seat. "I... won't get in your way anymore..."

Jean: "W-wait...!"

He turns around to leave, but Lisa gently places a hand on his shoulder to stop him.

Lisa: "Not so fast. I need you to do something for me."

Markus: "Huh?"

Lisa: "That little one... I don't know how her life's been up to this point, but from how you told me she acted towards you, and considering she's contracted Eleazar at such a young age, I'd imagine she's lived quite the difficult life." She gestures to the still sleeping Collei. "She may have traveled all the way here, searching for a place to call home. Somewhere where she won't be ostracized or abandoned anymore..."

Markus: "Searching for...?" His eyes widen in realization. "Come to think of it, she did mention she was looking for something..."

Lisa: "I'm not sure how much we can do about her illness, but I'd like to give her a place in Mond, at least. Where she may live, laugh, and perhaps even love... And I can't think of anyone else to ask for help with that than you and Amber."

Markus: "W-what?!" He exclaims, taking a step back. "Amber is one thing, but why... me?"

Lisa: "Is the answer to that not already obvious?"

Markus: "... No. No, it isn't..."

Lisa: She smirks, shaking her head. "Well, I'm positive it will be over time. Anyhow, firstly, I wonder what we should do with this sleeping child. We certainly can't let her stay here for the night. The poor thing at least deserves a proper bed, to rest her weary little head..."

Markus: "I'll... take her back to the cathedral with me for now..." He hesitatingly lifts Collei up, carrying her on his back surprisingly easily.

Lisa: "Will you be alright, carrying her back by yourself? Should I wake up Amber to help you?"

Markus: "No, I'm fine. Collei is... surprisingly light..."

Lisa: "Oh my, I hope she's eating well..."

Markus glances away uncomfortably, not wanting to think about what Lisa is implying.

Lisa: "I'll wake up our other dear Outrider later, then. Take care, and have a good night's rest, Markus."

Markus opens his mouth to say one last thing, but shakes his head, turning to exit the library.

Jean: "..."

As Markus takes slow, tired steps toward the cathedral, he stops to gaze up at the statue of the Anemo Archon.

Markus: "I'm sure Barb, Dad, and the others will be really confused when I randomly arrive with... Collei. What am I going to tell them...?" He sighs. "Maybe I shouldn't have been stubborn and woken up Amber after all..."

He grimaces as he looks back at the sleeping girl he's carrying on his back.

Markus: "She acts like how 'a certain other person' used to... I know exactly what Lisa meant, obviously. But... it's because I know that, that I don't know if I can help her..."

He holds out one of his gloved hands, staring at it melancholically.

Markus: "If there's anyone that could help someone like Collei, it would be..."

~~

"Our poor, fair region of Mond. Suffering at the hands... er, claws of that wretched 'Ursa the Drake' for so long. Just as we finally find someone to take care of that problem for us, we end up in the hands of an even bigger nuisance... Alas, what a conundrum."

"... Kaeya, who are you talking to?"

Kaeya: "Ah, good evening, 'Master' Diluc. It's quite the fatuous time to be throwing a party like this, wouldn't you think?"

Diluc: "You Knights of Favonius were too inadequate to take care of those bothersome Fatui yourselves, so I had to step in to... sate them somehow."

Kaeya: "I was joking, of course. Us Knights truly appreciate everything you and the staff of the Dawn Winery have done for our sake."

Diluc: "Hmph." He crosses his arms in a huff. "Weren't you supposed to be drinking with Grand Master Varka and Seneschal Seamus?"

Kaeya: "Well, you know our Grand Master; you take your eyes off him for a second and he's off somewhere else entirely." He laughs. "As for the Seneschal, he had so much to drink that he passed out on the bar table. He'd developed quite the migraine due to all this Fatui business, so the poor man deserves the chance to finally rest."

Diluc: "Speaking of migraines... You better not cause any unnecessary trouble, Kaeya."

Kaeya: "And just what do you mean by that?"

Diluc says nothing, turning around and walking away. Kaeya simply shrugs and looks for some guests to entertain.

Dawn Winery is bustling with many of Mond's citizens, as well as a few "honored" guests. The amount of parties of this nature Diluc holds are few and far between, so many are excited to drown their worries away with his finest drinks, which they are more than happy to do after the chaos of the last few days. There still seems to be some tension in the air, but such tension is nothing new for someone like Kaeya.

He spots two Fatui on the other side of the room, one leaning against the wall and the other grumbling next to him.

1st Fatui: "Heheh, Mond is great! They're holding a party for us and offering us drinks, even though we're Fatui!" He chuckles, before taking a sip of his drink.

2nd Fatui: "Mmnrgh..."

1st Fatui: "Hey now, what's got you in such a bitter mood?"

2nd Fatui: "I hate this place."

1st Fatui: "You do? Why?"

2nd Fatui: "Why was I stationed here for this event? I don't even work under that 'Dottore'!"

1st Fatui: "I heard a few Fatui will be assigned to remain here even after the festival. Wouldn't it be really funny if you were one of them?"

2nd Fatui: "Don't even joke about that!"

1st Fatui: "As your higher-up, I'll put in a good word for you to stay. Since you love Mond so much."

2nd Fatui: "Don't you dare!" He pauses, shaking his head. "Wait, you're not my higher-up! What are you talking about?!"

1st Fatui: "Hahah!" He laughs a second time, taking another sip of his drink.

Kaeya: "You both seem to be having a merry old time."

He states, casually approaching them. The first one smiles warmly, while the second glances away and grumbles again.

1st Fatui: "This is a nice party you organized."

Kaeya: "Thank you, but it was my... brother that organized this all, not me."

1st Fatui: "I see. Well, give your brother thanks on my behalf."

Kaeya: "Will do. I'm just glad you're enjoying yourselves, my friends."

1st Fatui: "Feh, friends?" He scoffs lightly. "If you're going to lie, at least be more subtle than that."

Kaeya: "Who said I was lying?"

1st Fatui: "If you insist." He shrugs, gesturing to his still grumbling cohort. "Anyway, this here is Viktor, and I'm... Reid. Yeah, let's go with that this time."

Viktor: "A new name? Again?!"

Reid: "I like to keep people on their toes."

Viktor: "What does that even mean?!"

Kaeya: "Kaeya. A pleasure." He chuckles lightly. "I think we'll get along just fine."

Reid: "Agreed... my 'friend'."

Kaeya: "Out of curiosity... What is that you're drinking? You are of age, right?"

Reid: "The drinking age in Mond is 18, right? And I'm 19, so there's no problem."

Viktor: "You're drinking grape juice."

Reid: "I am, yes." He takes another sip. "That fine, red-haired fellow offered me some."

Kaeya: "G-grape juice...?" He steps back, in mock disgust. "You're drinking something like that at this kind of party?!"

Reid: "Frankly, it's pretty gross." He scoffs again, before taking yet another sip.

Viktor: "Why are you drinking it, then...?"

Kaeya: "Is that so! I was beginning to question your tastes!" He shakes his head. "I don't think I could get along with anyone who fancies grape juice of all things."

Kaeya smirks as he senses "a certain red-haired fellow" glaring at him from the other side of the room.

Kaeya: "By the way, if you don't mind me asking... This morning, what appeared to be a dark, flaming serpent attacked a carriage entering our fair city's front gate. Would you happen to know anything about that?"

Reid: "Oh ho! Cutting right to the chase, huh? You sure don't pull your punches, do you, pal?"

Kaeya: "Whatever do you mean?" He tilts his head in mock innocence. "It contained visitors from your own home region, so I figured you'd be just as concerned as we are..."

Reid: "Feh." He crosses his arms, snickering darkly. "You talking about those old blowhards that were burned to death?"

Kaeya: "U-um, yes. They did... indeed die." His own smile falters, finding Reid's current expression off-putting. "So... you already know."

Reid: "That carriage, it was full of books those two wanted to bring back with them. And yet their pages were untouched by the flames..."

Kaeya: "..."

Reid: "It seems our 'mystery assassin' wasn't concerned about the information contained in said pages, and was instead concerned about information contained... somewhere else. Perhaps from sources... that can speak. Or could, rather..."

Viktor: "That's enough! You're running your mouth more than necessary, as usual, 'Reid'!"

Reid: "Hm? Why does that matter to you, Viktor?" He scoffs, shrugging. "Like you said, you don't work under 'that Dottore'... and neither do I."

Viktor: "That may be so, but remember, everything we Fatui do is for the sake of the Tsaritsa. Don't forget it."

Reid: "The Tsaritsa? What're you..." He suddenly stops himself, pausing. "... Ah, right. The Tsaritsa. Of course, my bad."

Viktor: "...?"

Kaeya: "... You seem to be... quite knowledgeable, my friend." He practically forces a chuckle, attempting to regain his composure. "Mind sharing everything you know relating to the incident? Us Knights would like to get to the bottom of it as soon as possible, as you could imagine, to help put our dear citizens at ease."

Reid: "Heh, Viktor, look at that. Our buddy here's got a Cryo Vision attached to his waist. The same element as our beloved Tsaritsa." He smirks, before turning to Kaeya. "Tell you what, if you'd consider gifting that Vision of yours to me, I'd be more than happy to cooperate with you in any way I can."

Kaeya: "O-oh, ha hah! What a funny guy you are, Reid!"

Reid: "I know, I'm hilarious. All of my fellow Fatui think so, too."

Viktor: "No, we don't..."

Reid: "Well, I've enjoyed our chat, my eyepatch-wearing friend. But I'd like to step out for some fresh air, if you wouldn't mind..." He hops off the wall, turning toward the door. "Come, my subordinate."

Viktor: "I'm not your subordinate! Grr!" He grumbles, reluctantly following behind Reid.

Kaeya: "Hm..."

Diluc: "Those Fatui are clearly up to something... and clearly nothing good."

Kaeya peers behind him, and notices Diluc hovering nearby, the man scowling irritably.

Kaeya: "Oh my, you startled me."

Diluc: "I'm sure I did." He shakes his head. "It's ridiculous how they're not even trying to hide their intentions, as if they think they own the place..."

Kaeya: "Why did you invite the Fatui, then?"

Diluc: "I'm assuming you're asking that question in jest, so I won't humor you with an answer."

Kaeya: "You also invited the Harbinger that's currently in Mond, correct? It's a shame he didn't show up."

Diluc: "Honestly, that may of been a blessing in disguise. That 'doctor' especially... seems like trouble."

Kaeya: "Doctor, eh..." He glances back at two he conversed with earlier, watching them slowly walk out. "There's another one that also seems especially suspicious. I think I'll personally be keeping a close eye on him in particular..."

Diluc: "What are you talking about?"

Kaeya: "It's nothing for you to worry about... hopefully."

~~

Lisa: "It might be a good idea for us to get some rest as well. Don't you think so, Jean?"

Jean suddenly stands up, slamming shut a book in her hands. It's enough to even startle Lisa.

Jean: "No." She says sternly, grabbing another book off the library table.

Lisa: "Goodness! Are you sure? You look... quite on edge."

Jean: "I'll get to the bottom of this 'dark serpent' incident. I refuse to allow anything to happen to the citizens of Mond, or our guests during the festival. I swear it...!"

Lisa: "Very well, then..."

She calmly holds up her cup of tea, sitting by the windowsill as she looks up at the bright moon above.

Lisa: "That child... She surely couldn't have traveled all the way from Sumeru to Mond all on her own, especially in the shape she was in. So how could she have...?" She thinks to herself. "It's been bothering me all this time, and the more I've thought about it, the more... suspicious it seems..."

She smiles as she peers over at the peacefully sleeping Outrider, who's mumbling something as her head and arms lay sprawled on the large table.

Lisa: "But unlike our overworking Dandelion Knight, perhaps it's best I don't try to settle this matter on my own. I'll believe in our young Outriders... You two, I'm counting on you~."

Amber: "Mmrgh... Markus... there's no need to put on such a bitter face. We'll show everyone... how impressive us Outriders are..."

To be continued...