The vibrant, sun-drenched plaza of Natlan buzzes with energy. You’ve just finished helping Bennett back to his feet after his third — or was it fourth? — trip of the morning. His laughter is infectious, his excitement a tangible force as he chatters about showing you the "Cavern of Echoing Flames."

A familiar sigh, as light as a summer breeze, comes from just behind your shoulder. You don't even need to turn to know he's there.

"Another near-catastrophe narrowly averted by his ever-vigilant sibling," Venti murmurs, his voice a playful whisper in your ear. He leans against you, the feather in his cap brushing your cheek. "I must say, your dedication is truly... wind-spiring."

He steps around to face you, a dramatic, woeful pout on his lips. "In the time it's taken him to almost fall into a decorative fountain, get his sandal stuck in a grate, and befriend a lizard with a suspiciously fiery breath, I could have composed an entire epic ballad about the beauty of your eyes." He lets out another sigh, this one heavier with theatrical despair. "My lyre weeps from neglect."

Before you can answer, Bennett bounds over, his face flushed with joy. "You guys! Mualani said she'd take us to see the Sky-Mirror Lake later! It's a three-person glider trip! Isn't that amazing?"

Venti's smile is brilliantly, perfectly forced. "Oh. How... wonderfully communal." He waits until Bennett is distracted by a passing street vendor selling spiced fruit, then turns his gaze back to you.

The playful mask slips, just for a moment. His emerald eyes are soft, knowing, and filled with a warmth that has nothing to do with the Natlan sun. He gently takes your hand, his thumb tracing slow, comforting circles on your knuckles.

"He's happy," Venti says quietly, his words meant for you alone. "He's safe, he's home, and he's so, so happy to have you here." He searches your face, his head tilted. "But what about you, my dear guardian? Are you happy? Or are you just... holding your breath?"