The early morning mist had just begun to lift off Liyue Harbor, revealing a bustling city preparing for another day of commerce and camaraderie. Down a quieter side street, the popular teahouse known as "Heyu Tea House" was opening its doors for the day's customers. The scent of freshly brewed tea mixed with the earthy notes of steamed buns filled the air, inviting anyone nearby to take a moment to relax and enjoy the quietude.
Inside, the teahouse owner, Fan Er'ye, was busy setting up tables, arranging porcelain tea sets and wiping down surfaces. He looked up when he heard the door creak open and was pleasantly surprised to see Keqing, the Yuheng of the Liyue Qixing, entering the establishment. With her was a small, confident Pokémon walking by her side—a Shinx.
Fan Er'ye smiled warmly, bowing slightly. "Good morning, Lady Keqing. It's an honor to have you here today. And what a charming companion you have!"
Keqing returned the bow, her usual serious demeanor softening slightly at the sight of the familiar tea house. "Good morning, Fan Er'ye. This is Shinx. I recently got him from the Pokémon Emporium, and I thought today would be a perfect opportunity for us to take a break from work and enjoy some tea."
Fan Er'ye's eyes gleamed with curiosity as he looked at Shinx. "A most excellent idea, Lady Keqing. I have heard so much about these magical creatures called Pokémon. They seem to be quite the fascination around Liyue lately. May I ask what your Shinx is like?"
Keqing smiled and glanced down at her Pokémon. Shinx looked up, its small body glowing with energy, and let out a playful "Shinx!" It nuzzled against Keqing's leg, its tiny fur sparking softly.
"Shinx is... quite curious and full of energy," Keqing said, a hint of amusement in her voice. "He has a habit of investigating everything, but he's also incredibly loyal. We've been working together to understand each other better."
Fan Er'ye nodded thoughtfully. "It sounds like you have a very dedicated companion, Lady Keqing. Please, make yourself comfortable, and I'll bring you our best tea. Perhaps a gentle herbal blend to start the morning?"
Keqing nodded and chose a table near the window, allowing her and Shinx to take in the gentle morning light filtering through the paper screens. As she sat, Shinx hopped up onto the chair opposite her, looking quite pleased with itself.
---
Meanwhile, just outside the teahouse, Chongyun and Xingqiu were strolling down the street. Chongyun had his Duskull floating beside him, its single eye darting around as if on high alert, while Xingqiu had his partner, Finneon, comfortably settled in a small bowl of water he was carrying with him.
"It's been quite a while since we last visited Heyu Tea House," Xingqiu mused, smiling. "I wonder if they'll be surprised to see our new partners."
Chongyun nodded. "I think so. People are still getting used to Pokémon, but it's been interesting seeing how everyone reacts to them." He looked at Duskull, who was currently floating upside-down, seemingly just to amuse itself. "And some Pokémon are more... mischievous than others."
Xingqiu chuckled. "Indeed. Though I must say, Duskull suits you well, Chongyun. You both have that aura of mystery." He paused and gave Chongyun a teasing smile. "Plus, it keeps things lively, wouldn't you say?"
Chongyun sighed, though he couldn't hide the small smile tugging at his lips. "I suppose. Duskull is quite the handful sometimes, but I can't deny that we've grown close."
As they reached the teahouse, Xingqiu opened the door and gestured for Chongyun to enter. "After you, my dear friend. Let's see if we can catch Keqing here—I heard she's been visiting more often since getting her Shinx."
Chongyun stepped inside, nodding his thanks. "Let's see, then."
---
Keqing looked up from her tea as Chongyun and Xingqiu entered the teahouse. She gave them both a small nod of acknowledgment, her eyes flicking to their Pokémon. "Good morning, Chongyun, Xingqiu. It seems we all had the same idea today," she said, a faint smile playing at her lips.
Xingqiu grinned, setting the bowl with Finneon on the table as he took a seat beside Keqing. "Indeed, Lady Keqing. It's not often we get a moment to relax, so we thought we'd take advantage of the opportunity." He gestured to Finneon, who swam in lazy circles. "Finneon wanted to come along as well."
Chongyun sat across from Keqing, with Duskull floating beside him. "It's nice to take a break from work," Chongyun agreed. He glanced at Shinx, who was watching Finneon with wide, curious eyes. "Your Shinx seems very energetic."
Keqing looked down at Shinx, who was now leaning over the table, its nose practically touching the surface of the bowl as it watched Finneon swim. "Yes, Shinx is always curious. He's fascinated by anything that moves. I think he finds Finneon quite interesting."
Xingqiu laughed softly. "It appears Finneon is enjoying the attention as well." He looked at Duskull, who had floated over to the window, its single eye watching the passersby outside. "And Duskull seems content as always."
Chongyun nodded. "Duskull enjoys observing people. It's almost like he's keeping a lookout, though sometimes I think he's just looking for opportunities to play tricks on people."
Keqing took a sip of her tea, her gaze shifting between the Pokémon. "I have to admit, having Pokémon around has brought a lot of unexpected joy. Even during busy times, Shinx's energy is infectious. It's a reminder to find joy in the little things."
Xingqiu nodded thoughtfully. "Very true. Pokémon have a way of making our lives a little brighter. Finneon, for example, has been inspiring my writing lately. The elegance of its movements reminds me of the flowing beauty of poetry."
Chongyun tilted his head slightly. "I suppose it's the same for me. Duskull has taught me to find balance—between work and fun. Even if his idea of fun is a bit... unconventional."
Duskull, as if on cue, floated over to Xingqiu and playfully tugged at the edge of his sleeve, causing Xingqiu to laugh. "See what I mean?" Chongyun said, shaking his head, though there was a clear fondness in his tone.
Keqing watched the exchange, her gaze softening. "Perhaps that's the true magic of Pokémon. They bring out different sides of us—sides we might not show as often otherwise."
---
As the morning turned into midday, the teahouse grew livelier. More customers began arriving, many of whom were curious about the Pokémon accompanying Liyue's well-known figures. Murmurs of admiration spread through the room, with people pointing out Finneon's graceful swimming, Shinx's playful antics, and Duskull's mysterious demeanor.
Fan Er'ye approached their table, carrying a tray with more tea. "It seems your Pokémon have become quite the attraction, Lady Keqing, Young Master Xingqiu, and Chongyun," he said with a chuckle. "Everyone's curious about these wonderful creatures."
Keqing nodded. "It's good to see people taking an interest. Pokémon have a lot to offer—not just in terms of their abilities, but in the companionship they provide."
Xingqiu smiled, reaching out to gently pat Finneon's back. "Indeed. They are loyal friends, and they bring us joy in ways we never imagined."
Chongyun looked around, noticing the curious stares from other customers. "Perhaps we could introduce them? I think it might be a good idea to show everyone that Pokémon are friendly and approachable."
Keqing considered this for a moment before nodding. "That's a good idea, Chongyun. It would help people understand more about them."
Fan Er'ye's eyes lit up. "An excellent suggestion! I'm sure everyone here would love to hear more about your Pokémon." He turned and called out to the room, "Ladies and gentlemen, our honored guests have offered to introduce their wonderful companions. Please, gather around if you're interested!"
Within moments, the teahouse filled with eager onlookers. Keqing stood, Shinx hopping down from the chair to stand proudly at her side. She looked around, her expression calm yet welcoming.
"This is Shinx," she began. "He may be small, but he has a big heart. He's loyal, curious, and always ready to lend a paw."
Shinx gave a little spark, earning delighted gasps from the crowd. Keqing smiled down at her partner. "He's been a wonderful companion, and I hope more people will come to understand just how special Pokémon can be."
Xingqiu stepped forward next, gesturing to Finneon. "This is Finneon. She's a water-type Pokémon, and her grace has inspired many of my recent writings. She reminds me of the beauty of nature—how even the smallest things can have the greatest impact."
Finneon flicked her tail, splashing a little water, which caused a few chuckles among the onlookers.
Chongyun was the last to step forward, Duskull floating by his side. "This is Duskull," he said, his voice steady. "Duskull may seem a little eerie, but he's loyal and protective. He's taught me the importance of balancing work and fun. And though he can be mischievous, he means well."
Duskull floated closer to the crowd, waving with its ghostly hands. A few children waved back, giggling. Chongyun couldn't help but smile at the sight.
---
As the introductions concluded, the crowd slowly dispersed, many of them expressing their gratitude and admiration. Keqing, Xingqiu, and Chongyun returned to their table, a sense of accomplishment settling over them.
"That went well," Keqing said, her voice carrying a note of satisfaction. "It's good to see people taking an interest in Pokémon."
Xingqiu nodded, a thoughtful expression on his face. "Yes, it's moments like these that help bridge the gap between the unfamiliar and the known. Pokémon are new to Teyvat, but I believe they will become an important part of our world."
Chongyun glanced at Duskull, who was now floating lazily by the window once more. "It's a journey, but I think we're making progress. One step at a time."
Keqing looked at Shinx, who was now curled up at her feet, its eyes half-closed. She reached down, gently stroking its fur. "Yes. One step at a time. And with partners like these by our side, I think we'll go far."
The sun had risen higher in the sky, casting its warm light into the teahouse, illuminating the faces of those within. And as the day continued, the people of Liyue, along with their Pokémon partners, took another small yet meaningful step toward a future where the magical creatures of Hiroshi's world would become a cherished part of everyday life.