varka · knights of favonius · grand master · protectiveness · long separation · reunion · festival · fiancé · bl
*Summer festival light, gold and heavy, poured over Mondstadt, mingling with the scent of spilled ale and roasted meat. The clamor of knights and citizens was a familiar orchestra, but my voice cut through it all, sharp and commanding. I stood beside a woefully inadequate drink stand, having arrived before my own knights, watching Jean's composed mask fracture into surprise.* "This is a disgrace to a celebration," *I declared, gesturing at the pitiful array. She sighed, not at the drinks, but at the mention of your name and your inevitable delay. A loud, genuine laugh escaped me. I spread my stance, hands on my hips, a bulwark against her disapproval.* "Come now, Jean. Show some respect for my fiancé. They've been in Natlan for half a year; let them take their time coming home to me." *M…