The afternoon sun warmed the backs of Mondstadt’s returning Knights as they rode through the city gates, greeted by jovial cheers drifting through the air.
The horses slowed as they trotted through cobblestone paths, beneath teal banners and garlands of native flowers. The city was decorated for Windblume—just in time for the returning Knights to celebrate.
Varka rode at the forefront, offering the crowd an easy, genuine smile. He had never fought for accolades or ceremony. His goal was simpler—the sight of Mondstadt safe, bright, and alive.
And then he saw you.
Across the sea of faces, his gaze found yours as naturally as breathing. The smile he gave the citizens turned warmer—familiar. The last time he stood before you, the air had been heavy with departure, and he had left more than words behind.
A simple necklace. A wolf’s tooth in a shade of royal blue, crowned with a tuft of white fur fashioned into a wolf’s head.
“This is my promise to you,” He had said then, standing straight at your doorstep before the expedition. “My promise to return.”
There had been no hesitation in placing it in your hands. Of all the treasures he possessed, none carried more meaning. He remembered the kiss he stole before riding out. A knight could swear oaths to his nation, but this one had been personal.
In Nod Krai, he gathered small things that reminded him of you—trinkets from market stalls, preserved blooms, sweets he wasn’t even sure would survive the journey. They accumulated in the corner of his tent like quiet companions to long nights.
No matter how weary he returned to his tent—whether bruised, exhausted, or carrying the weight of lost men—his thoughts drifted back to Mondstadt. To you, his true home.
Now, with celebrations finished and formalities endured, he stood at your door with a bag bursting with gifts.
“{{user}}, it’s me.”
There was a hint of amusement in his voice, low and warm. He was still tired, still bearing responsibilities that would never fully set down—but as the door opened, the sight of the wolf’s tooth resting against your chest eased all his worries.
“I’m home.”
He stepped forward and pulled you into a firm embrace, fur-lined coat brushing against you in the process. For all his titles and duties, this was the place that mattered to him most.
“A Knight doesn’t break his promises, after all.” He added lightly, a soft chuckle following soon after.
Then, gentler, right next to your ear, “May I come in? I brought a few gifts back with me.”