Over the next few days, Henry found himself spending more time outside Mondstadt's usual rhythm than he had expected, his schedule quietly reshaping itself around one recurring routine: meeting Keqing at the city gates.
She learned quickly, and it became obvious within the first hour. She approached the bike with the same focus and precision she had shown on her first inspection, intent on understanding rather than simply imitating. Her questions were direct, never wasted, and she adjusted faster than most people Henry had taught anything to.
Balance came first, and the initial attempts were rough—not from lack of ability, but from unfamiliarity. The concept was new, and even with her natural coordination, her motions sometimes didn't align with instinct. Still, she didn't complain or hesitate. Each mistake was noted and corrected. Henry didn't over-explain it to her, he showed and corrected when necessary, and let her figure out the rest.
By the second day, her handle still wobbled as she rode short distances, stopping after a few seconds. By the third day, she had full control; the initial hesitation had nearly vanished, replaced by something quieter: enjoyment.
Henry ran beside her, observing carefully as she pedalled. "You're moving more freely now," he remarked.
Keqing glanced to her left, a faint lift at the corner of her lips. "I suppose I am. I don't feel the need to stop, and my handle doesn't wobble anymore."
Henry nodded slightly. "You've gained control of your bike."
She slowed to a stop and dismounted, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "It feels… different. Easier to anticipate the motion, to adjust before it becomes a problem."
"That's great," Henry said, his tone approving. "your handling is becoming instinctive."
Keqing considered that for a moment, her eyes following the bike as she circled it. "I didn't expect learning something so simple to feel… satisfying."
Henry tilted his head slightly. "I have to admit… seeing you handle that bike so well—it's impressive. And teaching someone as talented and elegant as you? That's a rare opportunity."
Keqing's lips curved into a faint, amused smirk. "Oh? Are you complimenting me, Henry?"
"I only speak what's true," Henry said, without hesitation .
By the end of the week, Keqing could ride without issue; her control was precise, her movements efficient, and riding had already begun to integrate seamlessly into her instincts.
When they finally parted for the day, Henry's mind shifted to the next plan—leaving for Liyue—but there was still something else he needed to do before he set off.
—
The headquarters of the Knights of Favonius stood as it always did—massive and orderly. Henry moved through the streets, his steps steady as he made his way toward the training grounds.
But to his surprise someone was already present there.
Eula was leaning slightly against the edge of the practice area, eyes scanning the courtyard. She straightened as he approached, her expression curious but composed.
"Henry," she said, her tone soft, "what brings you here today? Are you planning to train?"
"Yes," Henry replied without hesitation. "If you are not busy today, Could you give me formal training on how to use Claymore."
Her gaze lingered on him for a moment, measuring and weighing. "…Very well," she said finally, her voice steady. "Follow me."
The two made their way to the training grounds, unusually quiet today. The open space stretched before them, empty—almost.
One figure was already present. A girl in a neatly kept maid uniform moved across the arena with a kind of force that didn't match her appearance. Her claymore cut through the air in clean, heavy arcs, each strike landing against the training dummies with enough power to send wood splintering into the air.
Henry stopped immediately, noting the familiar uniform, the confident posture, and the sheer weight behind each swing.
Noelle.
Her presence was unmistakable. Short, neck-length pale gray hair framed her face, and her olive-green eyes held a steady focus as she brutalized the wooden training dummies.
The maid uniform was practical yet distinctive—the crisp white offset by deep reds in the neat ribbons and small roses woven into the design, while a Geo Vision rested low on her back.
Armor plates protected her chest and shoulder, giving her the look of someone equally at home with chores and ready for combat at the same time.
Henry knew she wore black stockings underneath, though the massive skirt and armor currently blocked his view.
For a brief moment, he simply watched, taking in how striking she looked—the way her hair framed her face, the subtle roses in her uniform, the elegance of her posture, and the calm intensity in her eyes.
Then, as Eula approached, Noelle finally looked up and noticed them. Her movements stopped almost instantly, the claymore thudding onto the ground as she turned toward Eula, her expression brightening.
"Captain Eula!" Noelle stepped forward quickly, her energy shifting from focused intensity to eager politeness without missing a beat. "Good day! How are you today? Do you need any help?"
Eula gave a short nod. "Noelle. I'm well, thank you. I'm here to train him." Her gaze flicked toward Henry, and Noelle followed, her attention settling on him.
Henry stepped forward, bowing slightly with one hand resting on his chest "My lady, it's a pleasure to meet you. I've heard you're one of the most dependable people in Mondstadt."
Noelle blinked, caught slightly off guard, a faint blush rising to her cheeks. "Oh—no, sir, I just… try to help where I can."
Eula watched the exchange, something unreadable passing through her expression.
Noelle hesitated, then looked toward her. "Captain Eula… may I join the training?"
Eula's lips curved into a subtle, knowing smirk aimed at Henry, a spark of amusement in her eyes as if she knew something that only she understood. "…Very well."
Henry's gaze flicked from Noelle to Eula, noting the sly expression.
Why is she amused that Noelle is joining us?
---
Guys, give stones 🙏
This week's goal is 100 Power Stones. If everyone gives just one, we can easily hit it.
Read Advanced Chapters on Patreon— we are ahead by 11 chapters
https://patreon.com/A_Peverel