Aether:Sandrone? *walking in* You wanted to see me?
Aether:I got your note. See? *shows paper* Said you needed to talk.
Sandrone:I didn’t write you any note.
Aether:Y’know, I wasn’t confident that this was your handwriting, but I didn’t have it memorized either.
Sandrone:You read my entire diary and still don’t know.
Aether:The penmanship was the least interesting thing about that book. Well since I’m here…
He makes himself at home, grabbing some snacks and a blend where they were stored before sitting down in front of her desk where a tea set was already put to work.
Sandrone:I see you have no problem remembering where my food is.
Aether:You know who I travel with.
Sandrone:I can’t believe how hard she’s trying. I have half a mind to blame you, but I know all too well Columbina acts on her own time.
Aether:Literally. I don’t think it’s anything to be mad about though. I like tea and pleasant company. *sips*
Sandrone:On that, I agree with. However…we both understand these little moments are being used as a foundation for something far more…dubious. I think we should join forces and plan a proper counterattack.
Sandrone:What? I refuse to let everything go perfectly to her design. She should at least be put on the back foot in some meaningful way.
Aether:I kinda get that…but Sandrone, that sorta implies that while not the perfect plan, Columbina still ultimately gets her wish. And in this case it’s…
Sandrone:*red* All I’m being is rational. A flawless victory on either side would be impossible.
Aether:But you hold all the power. Literally.
Sandrone:You act like you don’t have a real say.
Aether:I mean I have opinions but in this case, you’re truly the linchpin. What I think or say really doesn’t hold much weight in these matters. See for yourself.
He reaches into his bag and pulls out a rolled piece of paper to give. Sandrone opens it up to see a heavily outlined document of rules and codes about Aether’s lifestyle.
Sandrone:You just keep this on you!? It’s also treated paper!?
Aether:It’s a copy. I got tired of explaining and was afraid I might forget something, so I carry this if the situation calls for it.
Sandrone:It’s so thought out; alarmingly so.
Aether:I have help by a pro.
Sandrone:Clearly they’re on the spectrum.
Aether:That’s a thing here? Actually… that should not surprise me; it actually doesn’t surprise me. A lot of things add up now. Anyways, regardless of it was spelled out in writing, Columbina wouldn’t make you do anything you don’t want to if you are serious about it. Also who the hell am I to say anything about it?
Sandrone:The world’s biggest meddler.
Aether:Unless your relationship life dictates the fate of a nation or turns into a commission, it’s not really my problem by default. Although at this point I feel like we’re dodging the very obvious question to this conversation.
Sandrone:And what would that be?
Aether:Am I even your preference? Genuinely, nothing else matters if the chemistry isn’t there to begin with. It’s fine if I’m not. Many people could care less.
Sandrone:Why the self defeatist talk? Shouldn’t a hero have boundless confidence in your position? Did someone crush your spirit before.
Aether:I’m just a guy at the end of the day. Also multiple have, but that’s okay. They’re good pe- well…one of them is. The other plays by the rules of the sands and…nobody wins that. Seriously, you won’t hurt my feelings. I get that you’re the type who probably doesn’t find many people interesting.
Sandrone:You make me sound so critical of everything. Which…fair I suppose, but I’ll have you know you don’t get to be as talented and knowledgeable as me without an open mind to many aspects of life.
Sandrone:I can admit you have a boyish charm to your personality. It’s inviting. In all sincerity, Columbina certainly doesn’t lack for quality in the company she wants to keep. Who knows what would happen if Chiori dolled you up in film makeup and something tailored to catch the eye. Dare I say you might even give Furina a run for her mora.
Aether:Pfft, thanks? Maybe in certain lighting. Certainly not acting. I gotta admit I wasn’t expecting a thorough review. I might as well be under a microscope. Also you roped yourself in with that Columbina comment.
Sandrone:Naturally! Don’t be so picky; you asked for my opinion and I gave it. Simple as that. Now then, your turn. None of this fence sitting nonsense. Consider yourself officially roped into this.
Aether:I think it would be hard to find someone who doesn’t think your pretty. For as much as you say it, you really are an elegant lady.
Sandrone:Ha! An astute observation!
Aether:Your personality used to irritate my very spirit though.
Sandrone:What!? This coming from the hoodlum constantly wrecking my machines, beating up my subordinates, and breaking into my design bureau for fun!?
Aether:You were actively being snobbish and ruining lives.
Aether:Glad you know I’m correct. Honestly is it a Fontainian thing to carry yourself on an especially high horse? It’s definitely cute in micro doses but pretty chaotic. Though I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t a little satisfying making you grumpy.
Sandrone:Gee, I never would’ve possibly guessed from all the camera footage of you grinning ear to ear directly at the lens. I can admit that our occupations have lead to less than favorable conditions when we meet.
Aether:That said, I do have a certain fondness for you know. Also like many Fontainians, this a deep sense of care as big as your personality. Maybe the nation of hydro is the most emotional at its core? Regardless, I think you’re pretty swell.
Sandrone:Kinda sounds like you like Fontainians.
Aether:I mean that’s not untrue, haha! I wouldn’t say anymore than anyone else. What I was getting at was personality is a huge thing for me. If I didn’t like you as a person, we wouldn’t be having this conversation.
Sandrone:I can say the same about you. So then, is there anything else you’d like to discuss during this ridiculous tea party?
Aether:Probably the common link between all of this, Columbina. I’m not gonna pry but you two have definitely….
Sandrone:*red* Why are you bringing this up!? Of course!
Aether:So you’re really just like any other woman?
Sandrone:No, I’m leagues above in many ways.
Aether:You. Know. What. I. Meant.
Sandrone:You’ve seen me cry and bleed. Not to mention I’m certain Columbina has bothered you about our relationship. You don’t think she would’ve mentioned any glaring issues for her grand scheme. If anything, you’re the mystery! You’re technically an alien. How do I know I’m not walking into an unexpected predicament?
Aether:…* looks at document*
Aether:Doesn’t the fatui have an entire file on me?
Sandrone:You just think we’ve seen you naked or something! Is the bar that l- well Dottore might’ve been that thorough. Actually I’m certain. He was a freak and granular about all research topics. Thank goodness his labs were ruined, but I digress. To be honest, run ins with Citlali and Ineffa have given me….too much information in some aspects.
Aether:I’m terribly sorry.
Sandrone:I feel sorry for you.
Aether:I think those were my major questions. Anything still on your mind?
Sandrone:Hmm. At the risk of sounding hypocritical, was Columbina…assertive with you?
Aether:Wow, that really was hypocritical. My question was way less invasive! But I’ll assume you have your reasons. She was less nervous than I was if that means anything. I’d say attentive rather than assertive. Her gaze was intimidating though.
Sandrone:So I wasn’t the only one feeling it. Frankly, her composure was frustrating. I was completely on the back foot. Going in I knew I’d be the least experienced, and this situation is no different. However…*points dramatically* you!
Sandrone:In this instance, the only one with a vast wealth of knowledge is you. This is where the counter attack comes in.
Aether:One, “vast” is crazy. It’s not that frequent. Two, you’re still on about that?
Sandrone:Of course! The task is both logical and simple. I’m counting on you to lead. As the experienced one, it’s practically a responsibility. This way the momentum doesn’t shift dramatically and we both end up under her spell. Learning something new doesn’t inherently come with shame, but I absolutely refuse to look like a bumbling mess again!
Aether:It’s not my business.
Sandrone:Errors were made and I was unfortunately at a loss for words multiple times. Party because Columbina swept me into her pace! You leading would be beneficial for both our sakes. I’ve already ran interference for you against Dottore. Now I ask you do the same for me.
Aether:How could anyone say no when you put it like that? *rubs his head*
Sandrone:Wonderful. Now she can deal with her own fair share of hurdles during this experience.
Aether:I still feel like calling this a counterattack after this conversation occurred because of her is a little ironic.
Fagio appears by the door and swings it open immediately, causing the Moon Goddess to fall forward face first into the floor.
Sandrone:Aether might not be used to you intentionally hiding your presence, but you should’ve known better than to underestimate me.
Columbina:*looks up* I thought it rude to interrupt.
Sandrone:You really weren’t raised properly. Eavesdropping is a thousand times more impolite.
Aether:Yet you clearly let her.
Sandrone:Only because it saves us the energy of repeating this! Listen up Columbina, you heard perfectly well my conditions and expectations. No more funny business! Agree to these terms and….and you get what you want! Deal!?
She slowly rises to her feet, smiling as if nothing happened as she gave a nod.
Columbina:You have my word. Thank you, both of you.
Sandrone:I still can’t fathom what the hype is about honestly. It almost feels complicated for complication’s sake.
Aether:Resident genius stumped by two turning into three.
Sandrone:Why are you like this!?
Columbina:The way I see it, it’s about the trust. I can easily say that two of you are people I deeply care about and trust with my entire being. Naturally, I want to build upon that trust between all of us. I can’t think of a better way to express how open and comfortable I am around you.
A&S:*red* Great, now I feel a little bad assuming it was less wholesome!
Aether:I appreciate your support and trust for me.
Sandrone: Don’t let her candy coated wounds stick to you too much. A simple “I’d like to connect” would’ve sufficed.
Columbina:Either way, I look forward to tonight. Now if you would excuse me-
Sandrone:Not so fast! Who said it had tonight!? What about mental preparation!?
Columbina:You didn’t need any preparation when it was the two us. I asked, and it happened.
Aether:Oh my. How brazen~
Sandrone:Can it! This is different! The lead should decide the location and time. It’s only right.
Aether:You pick. You’re the one stressed out. I’ll adjust my schedule accordingly. Just not tonight. I found a giant crab underwater perfect for the aquarium. It threw me out the water. *stands up* I can’t let that slide.
Sandrone:Fiiiiine. Knowing you two, the location would’ve lacked a proper atmosphere for the occasion. We would’ve ended up somewhere like Silver Moon Hall.
Columbina:What’s wrong with my abode? You said it fit me.
Columbina:Hmmm, I suppose that would be bothersome to certain people. Very well.
She drifts over to Sandrone to kiss her cheek, then Aether’s, following up with grabbing a snack from the table and vanishing.
Aether:Sadrone, good luck. *sits down*
Sandrone:Weren’t you leaving?
Aether:That crab really messed me up.
Sandrone:Have you been injured this entire time!?
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