Cupid from the Stars Beyond

The Angel's Share buzzed with life, a symphony of laughter and clinking glasses. Bartenders weaved through a throng of weary patrons seeking solace after a long day's toil. Amidst the vibrant tapestry of customers, a certain bard could be spotted, mingling effortlessly with the crowd. Paimon and the Traveller, Lumine, observed the wandering musician with bemused expressions, while Mona animatedly recounted Fischl's earlier dilemma.

"Wait, hold on!" Paimon suddenly exclaimed, her voice rising above the din. "Fischl's lovesick and you're coming to us for help!?"

"I didn't know who else to turn to! And it's not as if I possess a wealth of experience to draw upon…" Mona replied, her spirit dimmed as she cast a glance at Fischl. The girl had her head buried in her arms on their table, her cheeks ablaze with embarrassment, wishing for a chasm to open and swallow her whole.

"Not to sound too proud of ourselves here, but I have no idea when it comes to love, and the traveller…" Paimon glanced at Lumine, who suddenly looked depressed. It appeared her own romantic escapades were either not great or non-existent.

"But how hard could it be, right?" In a flash, Lumine dispelled her gloom, her frown doing a complete flip, brightening the atmosphere with her smile. Paimon remained less than convinced.

"Love is hard! It's tricky, with weird feelings and awkwardness and stuff!"

"Tell me about it..." Fischl's muffled voice emerged from her arms. "Now I can't even look at him without feeling like a puddle of chaos and nerves..."

"We've been so focused on your feelings, but do any of us truly know how he feels?" Mona mused, her tone casual until the weight of the question settled upon them.

"Oh god, we don't have a clue, do we?"

All eyes returned to Fischl, who finally lifted her head, startled by the intensity of their gazes.

"I-I don't know! He seems to have fun when he's with me, I guess?"

"Hmm…" Lumine pondered thoughtfully. "We need to ask him how he feels too. We're stumbling in the dark here."

"It's going to look weird if we invite him to a get-together with just us girls... We'll need to orchestrate something with at least one other boy." Mona placed a hand on her chin, deep in thought. "He seems to get along with Razor, and Razor isn't likely to ask awkward questions."

"But then, how do we get Bennett and Fischl alone? We'd have to distract Razor somehow..." Paimon looked concerned. Beyond wolves and 'Lupical', the girls were uncertain what else to discuss with the wolf boy.

"He likes food? That's a topic that you could chat with him for hours Paimon!" Lumine grinned as Paimon bristled.

"I mean, yes, but I can't be the only one doing all the talking!"

The group continued to strategize for several hours. As rowdier patrons began to fill the Angel's Share, a spark of inspiration flickered in Mona's mind.

"Could we get him drunk?"

"We're all minors…" Fischl shot a glare at Mona, unimpressed by the notion.

"Just a glass of wine couldn't hurt, right?"

"We would never be served anyway." Lumine sighed, her gaze drifting longingly over to the other patrons of the tavern, who revelled in their merry intoxication as she sipped her non-alcoholic orange juice. She shot a fierce look at the flushed Venti, who seemed to be on his third bottle of wine, his lyre vibrating with wild excitement.

Oz, hovering nearby, chimed in, "My Lady Fischl, perhaps we should focus on creating an opportunity for an honest conversation rather than resorting to such schemes."

"Indeed! My loyal companion speaks wisely," Fischl declared, her tone regaining its usual flair. "We must craft a plan that aligns with our noble intentions!"

"Right! Let's come up with a plan that brings them together naturally," Mona encouraged, her eyes shining with newfound resolve.

"A gathering of friends! An evening of revelry beneath the stars!" Fischl declared, her spirits lifting. "A night where hearts might intertwine!"

"Hearts might intertwine?" Mona gave her a bemused look, a teasing smile tugging at her lips. "It sounds like our Prinzessin has grand ambitions!"

"Wha—!" Fischl's cheeks flushed as she spluttered. She squared her shoulders, firing back at Mona. "Aren't you supposed to be on my side?!"

"I am on your side! But get your head in the game, or this week will end in angsty dramatics instead of engagements and roses!"

"How dare you! I haven't even asked him out yet, and you're already talking about engagements and angst?!"

"Mein Fräulein, you're disturbing the other patrons," Oz cut in, his wings twitching slightly.

Lumine, hoping to distract herself from the scene unfolding at her table, glanced across the room. Her gaze landed on Venti, the carefree bard she'd been watching earlier. As she observed him, a plan began to take shape. Known for his charm and gift for persuasion, he might be the perfect catalyst to help with this delicate scheme. Leaning into the group, she whispered, her voice barely audible.

"Guys, what if we enlist his help?" Lumine suggested, nodding subtly toward the bard in the corner. "He's a master at gathering people together. With him, we could create a setting where a mixed group feels completely natural."

Fischl's eyes sparkled with a glimmer of hope. "You mean... something casual?"

"Actually…" A mischievous grin spread across Lumine's face. "I was thinking—a dance."

Mona's eyes lit up as she caught on. "Yes! Venti could host a small festival dance or a storytelling night. With Windblume just around the corner, it's the perfect excuse to throw an event like that. It would give us the ideal setting, and everyone would be invited—Bennett, Razor, and, of course, the rest of us."

"But how do we make sure Bennett and Fischl get some alone time?" Paimon asked, skeptical.

Lumine tapped her chin thoughtfully. "Maybe Venti could set up a partner activity. Like a duet or a game where they end up paired together."

"Or during one of his breaks," Mona added, her eyes glinting with a touch of mischief, "we could suggest a stroll outside for some fresh air. It'll be the perfect chance for them to talk alone."

With the plan taking shape, the group decided to put it into action. They approached Venti, who was at the bar, strumming his lyre and charming a small audience with his melodies. As they drew near, he looked up, flashing them a warm, welcoming smile. "Ah, the intrepid adventurers and their companions! What brings you to my humble corner of joy?" he greeted, always the performer.

Lumine explained their predicament, outlining the plan for a gathering that would allow Bennett and Fischl to bond without pressure. Venti listened intently, nodding along with an amused expression.

"It sounds like a tale of young love in need of a gentle nudge," Venti said, his eyes sparkling with interest. "I'd be delighted to help. I'll arrange a night of stories and songs. Leave the details to me."

"I knew we could count on you!" Paimon cheered, her face lighting up. "We really appreciate it!"

Lumine looked over at Fischl, who was usually so eloquent but now seemed a bit flustered, searching for the right words. After a brief pause, she turned red, her eyes sparkling with gratitude. "Thank you…"

"Fear not, fair maiden," Venti assured with a playful wink. "The winds of fate shall guide your hearts."

The group departed, hopeful and energized by the prospect of their plan coming together. Now, all they had to do was wait for the night of the gathering.

---

"ARGHHHH!"

"Mein Fraulein! Is everything well? What happened?" Oz stirred from his dreams, his gaze bleary as he searched for any trace of his lady. He found Fischl, her face buried in her pillow, legs swinging and thumping against the bed while her fists rained down upon the mattress, seemingly caught in a whirlwind of embarrassment.

"Mein… fraulein?"

"Did I succumb to the tavern's heady atmosphere? Did someone swap my juice for spirits?! How did I agree to this?!" Her fiery emerald eyes ignited as Fischl lifted her head. "Her…"

"Her…?"

"That wretched astrologist! Mona! She somehow convinced me to… dance! I don't even know how to dance!"

"You don't?" Concern flickered in Oz's eyes. "I presumed it was a skill you possessed…" Oz decided it would be best not to mention that it had actually been Lumine's suggestion to dance.

"You'd think so, but…" Fischl released a despondent sigh. "I never had the chance to learn…"

"Could you not feign otherwise? Could you not dance with the rhythm of your heart and instinct?"

"Could you soar without wings?" Fischl shot a glare at her familiar. Oz sighed in defeat.

"It won't be complicated. If we were attending a grand ball in the palaces of the Immernachtreich, that would be another tale. However, this is but a simple tavern dance, with someone likely as inexperienced as you."

"Somehow, that doesn't soothe my worries…"

"What I mean to convey, Mein Fraulein, is that you need not obsess over the dance itself. Instead, immerse yourself in the moments shared with your beloved." A vibrant blush washed over Fischl's cheeks.

"Beloved…" she murmured, visions of Bennett's face dancing before her eyes.

"What if I create a spectacle… He may never wish to speak to me again…"

Oz fluttered closer, his voice gentle and reassuring. "My Lady, do not underestimate the power of sincerity. Even if the steps are unfamiliar, your sincerity will be evident, and that is what truly matters."

Fischl's blush deepened, but she found comfort in Oz's words. "You're right… Perhaps I'm overthinking this."

Oz nodded, a soft smile in his eyes. "And remember, everyone starts somewhere. Even the grandest of adventures begin with a single, uncertain step."

Fischl took a deep breath, feeling her anxiety begin to dissipate. She pictured Bennett's encouraging smile and the warmth of his presence. "I suppose if it comes from the heart, it can't go too wrong."

"Exactly, Mein Fraulein. Let your heart lead the way, and the dance will follow."

Feeling a bit more relaxed, Fischl started getting ready for the day. She was gearing up for her next big challenge: asking Bennett to the dance. Just thinking about it sent a wave of nerves rushing through her. How on earth was she going to bring it up?

She paced her room, rehearsing various ways to approach him. "Hey, Bennett, would you like to go to the dance with me?" She tried to say it casually, but her reflection in the mirror looked anything but.

"Maybe I should be more direct," She mused aloud. "Bennett, I have something important to ask you." She cringed at how serious that sounded.

"Why is this so hard?" she muttered, flopping down on her bed. "I'm an adventurer, for crying out loud! I've faced monsters and explored ruins, but this feels like the most daunting quest yet."

Oz, perched on the windowsill, offered a gentle reminder, "Remember, Mein Fraulein, courage lies in acknowledging one's fears and choosing to act regardless."

Taking a deep breath, Fischl nodded. "You're right. I can't let fear stop me now." She stood up, determination replacing her earlier uncertainty.

As she got ready to leave, she took one last look in the mirror. "Alright, Fischl," she whispered to herself, "You got this."

Feeling a surge of determination, she stepped out into the bright morning, ready to track down the charming yet infuriating pyro-wielder and invite him to the dance. Each step felt like a little burst of joy, full of hopeful energy—until she spotted him in the busy main square, doing grocery shopping with Razor.

"Oh no…" She thought as she ducked behind a corner, her plans starting to fall apart. It was already going to be tough enough to gather the courage to ask him out, but with Razor around, it felt like a total nightmare.

"What do I do now?"

---

Paimon and Lumine were enjoying a delicious breakfast at Good Hunter when Paimon suddenly squinted at something across the square.

"Isn't that...?"

Lumine glanced over to find Fischl hiding around a corner, casting a piercing gaze at Bennett and Razor as they wrapped up their grocery shopping.

"She kinda looks like a stalker, should we do something?" Paimon said, looking worried.

Lumine chuckled softly, shaking her head. "I think she's just working up the courage to talk to Bennett. But maybe we should give her a little help."

Paimon nodded enthusiastically. "Yeah! She looks a bit helpless at the moment."

The two friends quickly finished their breakfast and made their way towards Fischl, who was still partially hidden behind the corner. As they approached, Lumine called out gently, "Hey! Need a hand?"

Fischl jumped a little, startled by their sudden appearance. "Oh! Traveller, Paimon! I didn't see you there... Um..." Fischl cleared her throat, internally switching personas as quick as she could. "I must confess, your presence eluded my senses until this very moment!"

Paimon grinned. "Looks like you could use some help. What's the plan?"

Fischl sighed, her cheeks flushed with a mix of embarrassment and determination. "I was going to ask Bennett to the dance, but... well, Razor's there too, and I didn't want to make it awkward."

Lumine gave her a reassuring smile. "How about we all go over together? Paimon and I can keep Razor occupied while you talk to Bennett."

Fischl hesitated for a moment, then nodded. "Alright, let's us begin."

With her friends by her side, a renewed sense of bravery energized her. Together, they approached Bennett and Razor, who were busy discussing their latest finds at the market.

"Raw meat sounds like a recipe for disaster… Have you never eaten food cooked?"

Razor shrugged in response. "Never. Fire is dangerous… in forest."

Bennett raised an eyebrow, a mix of confusion and disbelief on his face. "How the heck have you survived this long…"

"Hey, guys!" Paimon chirped, waving cheerfully. "What are you up to?"

Bennett turned, greeting them with a warm smile. "Oh, hey, Lumine, Paimon! Just picking up some supplies."

Razor nodded in agreement, holding up a basket of fresh vegetables. "For dinner. Cooking together."

"Did I hear something about raw meat?" Paimon scrunched up her nose at the thought. Razor nodded, closing his eyes, wearing a happy grin. "Meat does not always need fire. People who eat meat well-done… crazy!"

"Yeah, but have you never had an upset stomach before?" Paimon asked.

"Stomach? A stomach.. is sad?" Razor looked confused.

Taking the opportunity whilst Razor was distracted, Lumine gave Fischl a little nudge, encouraging her to step forward. Taking a deep breath, Fischl summoned her courage and addressed Bennett directly.

"Ah, Bennett, my comrade-in-arms and trusted confidant." she began. "I find myself adrift in a sea of wonder—might you, a brave spark amidst the shadows, grace me with your presence at the grand dance of destiny?"

"Grand dance of... what?"

Fischl hesitated for a moment, realizing she might not reach him. Thankfully, her loyal familiar intervened, providing the necessary context to keep the dialogue flowing.

"There will be an event, much like a mini-festival at the tavern to celebrate Windblume. The festivities commence this evening. Mein Fraulein would like to know if you would care to join us?"

"That includes you as well Razor. What do you think? They'll be plenty of delicious food!" Paimon said, looking over at the wolf boy with excitement. Both boys glanced at each other, a fire dancing in their eyes.

"I completely forgot! Of course, its Windblume!"

"Food! And... a flower?"

"Oh yeah! Can't forget that!" Bennett turned to Fischl, beaming. "I'd love to come! By tavern, you mean Angel's Share? What time? I can't wait!"

Fischl mirrored Bennett's expression, smiling radiantly. She had taken her first unsteady step, undoubtedly into the right direction. Her heart danced like a firefly in the twilight, relief washing over her like a gentle breeze. "Splendid! I eagerly await the moment when our fates entwine beneath the stars."

Several hours later, Fischl found herself at the Favonius Cathedral, accompanied by Lumine, Paimon, and Mona. As they stood on the grand steps of the imposing structure, Venti flashed a grin at them all.

"So, our Prinzessin wishes to learn how to dance. I thought, since she's brave enough to face the trials ahead, why not have her friends join in? This way, they can bond while mastering the skills needed for tonight's dance."

"Wait, what?" Paimon exclaimed, while Mona's expression shifted to one of distress.

"We're learning too?!"

"Indeed, Miss Megistus." Venti's expression reminded Lumine of a playful fox. "After all, you can't acquire a skill like dancing without a partner."

"When will I ever need to dance? Why must I learn as well!?" Mona lamented, prompting giggles from Lumine and Paimon.

"Now, now. You wouldn't abandon a friend in need, would you?" Venti had Mona right where he wanted her. With a resigned sigh, Mona stepped toward Fischl, her eyes burning with determination.

"I want you to succeed tonight, and I don't care what needs to happen now in order to make that happen. So work with me Fischl, and I'll make sure you knock the socks off him tonight!"

Fischl immediately blushed, raising a hand to cover her open mouth. "Oh my... I didn't realize our astrologist could be so daring!" Lumine couldn't tell if Fischl was pretending or not. Oz filled in, following Fischl's jab. "Mein Frauline, you must be cautious. The astrologist may be sneakier than we first thought."

"Oh, quiet you two!" Mona said, her face turning bright red. "Don't make this more difficult than it has to be!" The group headed into the cathedral. As they got closer to the front, where sermons usually happen, Mona turned to Fischl.

She took Fischl's hand and placed it on her waist, then put her right hand on Fischl's shoulder, locking eyes with her. From the sidelines, Paimon felt a bit flustered. "Is it always this exciting to watch two girls dance together?"

"Want to join in, Paimon?" Lumine asked, bowing playfully and offering her hand.

"Oh my!" Paimon squealed in delight. "I'd love to!"

"Great! Now that we have our partners, let's get this dance started!" Venti said with a smile, strumming his lyre.

The cathedral echoed with the gentle strums of Venti's lyre, creating a serene and almost magical atmosphere. The music filled the space, wrapping around the dancers like a warm embrace. Fischl and Mona began to move in unison, their steps tentative at first but growing more confident with each passing moment.

"Remember, it's all about feeling the music," Venti encouraged, his voice carrying over the melody. "Let it guide you, just as the wind guides a traveller."

Fischl focused on the rhythm, allowing herself to relax and trust Mona's lead. Meanwhile, Lumine and Paimon twirled nearby, their laughter ringing through the cathedral as they tried to mimic the graceful movements of their friends. Paimon's wings fluttered with excitement, adding a whimsical touch to their dance.

"I think I'm getting the hang of this!" Paimon giggled, spinning around with Lumine's help.

"You're doing great, Paimon," Lumine replied, her smile infectious. "And remember, it's all in good fun."

As they danced, the friends felt the weight of their worries lift, replaced by the joy of the moment. Fischl caught Mona's eye, a silent understanding passing between them.

"Thank you, Mona," Fischl whispered as they continued to dance. "I couldn't have done this without you."

Mona grinned, her earlier apprehension forgotten. "We're in this together. Let's make tonight unforgettable!"

With renewed confidence, the group spun and swayed, the music of Venti's lyre weaving a tapestry of friendship and hope. As the final notes faded into silence, Fischl felt a sense of readiness settle over her. She was ready.

---

Meanwhile…

"She asked me to the dance! What does that mean!?"

"I… don't know?"

After being invited to the dinner, Bennett and Razor had gone their own way. Excitement from the upcoming event quickly dwindled into concern as Bennett suddenly remembered the events from a week ago.

"You said… Fischl, sad?" Razor questioned.

"Yeah, she was really down about something…" Bennett had guided the pair to a log to sit on, just outside the walls of Mondstadt. "I couldn't get it out of her in the end though. She ended up just smiling and telling me it was alright and we sort of just… continued with the quest…"

"But now… She looked happy when she asked me about the dance. Happier than I've seen her in a long, long time." Razor was silent for a while, before he suddenly piped up again.

"Do you… Like her?"

Bennett's eyes widened, and he scratched the back of his head, a bit flustered. "Uh, I mean... I think she's really cool, but I don't know if it's like that. It's just... she's been through a lot, you know? I just want her to be happy."

Razor nodded thoughtfully, his gaze steady. "Hmmm... If she's asking you to the dance, it could mean she wants to share a moment with you, yes?"

"Yeah, but what if she just wants to hang out as friends? I don't want to read too much into it," Bennett sighed, leaning back against the log. "What if I make things weird?"

Razor tilted his head, considering. "Sometimes, it is good to be honest. If you have feelings for her, you should let her know. But... also, enjoy the dance. See where the night takes you, yes?"

Bennett bit his lip, considering. "You think so? I guess it could be fun... I just hope I don't trip over my own feet out there."

Razor chuckled softly, a warm smile on his face. "Just breathe and be true to yourself. The stars will guide your steps."

Bennett let out a small laugh, feeling a bit more at ease with Razor's reassurances. "Thanks, Razor. I'll try to keep that in mind."

The two friends sat in comfortable silence for a moment, the gentle rustling of leaves around them a soothing backdrop to their thoughts.

"Well, I suppose I should get ready." Bennett finally said, standing up and brushing himself off. "No matter what happens, I want to make sure Fischl has a good time."

Razor nodded, standing up as well. "I think you will do well, Bennett. Remember, the night is full of possibilities."

With a grateful smile, Bennett gave Razor a pat on the shoulder before heading back towards the city. He felt a mix of excitement and nerves about the evening ahead. As he walked, Bennett couldn't help but imagine what might happen.

"Does she… like me?" he wondered, his eyes drifting over the glowing city. As he glanced up at the moon while crossing the bridge, a thought hit him, making his heart skip a beat.

"Do I… like her?"