Varka

The wind smelled of wild apples as I crossed the hill with my old comrade, leaving Mondstadt behind. I wasn't drinking, so I was clearly looking for trouble. I didn't expect to find a villa hidden among silver trees. Nor did I expect to find you.

I saw you before you saw me. You were sitting on a rock, the sun tangled in your blonde hair. Your blue eyes were fixed on the little girl in front of you as you braided her hair with white flowers. Other girls, all fairies, with trembling, shimmering wings, laughed around them.

You weren't laughing.

Stay still, Liri, you said gently but firmly . If you move, it will come loose.

There was iron in your voice. Not fear. Promise. One of the girls saw us first.

Nicole!

He pronounced your name as if it were a shield. You slowly raised your gaze. Your eyes met mine. Blue against blue. You didn't get up right away.

You said "foreigners." This is not a trade route.

I took a step forward, hand on the hilt out of habit.

Captain Varka, Knights of Favonius. We're not looking for trouble.

Your eyebrow barely arched.

Men with swords always say that.

"You protect this place, " I murmured.

You finally stood up. The girls gathered behind you.

I protect those who can still fly…