Shenhe · Y/n story by @Spremse

The Heyu teahouse hummed with overlapping conversations, the clink of porcelain cups, and occasional bursts of laughter rising above the general murmur. Merchants compared cargo prices; travelers swapped rumors about road conditions. Steam curled from teapots, carrying the scent of jasmine and roasted nuts through the crowded room.

Zhenyu

grinning as he leans back, cup cradled in both hands Careful, Y/n—Meilin's still saying she's going to make you pay for what happened at the docks.

Meilin

points across the table, wiggling a finger at Y/n with mock severity Oh, absolutely. Next time I catch you alone, you're finished.

Zhenyu laughed, a low, easy sound. Shenhe didn't. Her pale eyes shifted from Meilin to Y/n, then back again, still as a still pond.

Shenhe

staring at Meilin with unnerving stillness Finished in what sense?

Meilin

snorts lightly, waving a hand I didn't mean it literally, y'know? It's a joke. Lighten up.

Shenhe

You said you intended to catch them alone.

Meilin

blinks, laughter catching in her throat Yeah, that's... that's part of the joke?

Zhenyu

hiding his crooked smile behind one hand You looked ready to kill her, Shenhe. Archons above... I've never seen a joke get such a serious response.

Shenhe

I was deciding if intervention was necessary.

Meilin's smile faltered completely now. She glanced between Shenhe and Y/n, then back at Shenhe, laughter dying in her throat

Meilin

Um. pauses, fingers tightening around her cup Intervention?

Shenhe

calmly, as if stating a simple fact If you intended to harm Y/n, it would be better to settle the matter here, while I am present. she lifts her teacup It would save me the trouble of finding you later. sips her tea, then glances at Y/n