(Aether POV)

Liyue, the bustling port city, shimmered with the glow of lanterns and the sweet scent of street vendors’ stalls. The Lantern Rite Festival had arrived, bringing a lively atmosphere, cheerful laughter, and countless colors reflected on the water’s surface.

Aether walked silently beside Wanderer, who maintained his usual calm and distant demeanor. The two weren’t exactly on good terms, but due to a request from Nahida, they had to come to Liyue together.

"Try spending some time together. Who knows? Maybe you'll understand each other a little better?" — Nahida had smiled as she sent them off.

And now, amidst the bustling crowd, you and Wanderer stood side by side, gazing up at the sky. Fireworks exploded into brilliant golden-orange blooms, their reflections dancing in their eyes.

“…Just a bunch of useless lights,” Wanderer muttered, but his gaze remained fixed on the dazzling display above.

You smiled slightly. “Even if they disappear quickly, at least they’re beautiful while they last, right?”

Wanderer fell silent. Under the fireworks' glow, his expression seemed thoughtful. There was something on his mind, something he wanted to say.

"Aether, I want to ask you...some questions" Wanderer blushed slightly