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Chapter Text

The wooden door creaks open and sounds of the warm, bustling tavern spill out. Angel’s Share is packed with visitors and locals for this year’s Weinlesefest. A petite woman with shoulder length black hair slips onto a stool at the bar.

“Oh? What do we have here? Another visitor from afar?”

The woman swivels in her seat to look at the man with a silky voice. His long, navy blue hair is tied neatly into a low ponytail that rests over his shoulder. Over his other shoulder rests a fluffy white cape, but what catches the girl’s attention is his striking ice blue eye.

A smirk pulls at his lips, “Are you old enough to be drinking? I know it’s the Weinlesefest, but still....” He trails off.

“Oh, I can drink,” the girl replies as she pulls a notebook and a pen out of her brown leather crossbody bag and sets them on the counter.

The man raises an eyebrow and rests his chin on the back of his hand.

As the man is about to say something else, a woman with plum colored hair scolds him, “Stop harassing the kid, Kaeya. If she wants to drink, let her.”

“I’m not actually here to drink and I’m not a kid. I’m 21,” the ravenette puts a hand on her hip. “And it’s rude to talk to a woman before you even know her name.”

The woman opens her notebook and flips through to a new page before scrawling down the date. After a moment, the man next to her chuckles and extends his hand into her line of sight.

“Forgive my rudeness. I’m Kaeya, Knight of Favonius. The cold woman is Rosaria. And you are?”

The woman puts down her pen and shakes Kaeya’s hand, “Mingxi. I’m a journalist from Liyue.”

“Liyue hm? You’ve traveled quite a ways.”

“Kaeya, we just went to Liyue to do a couple errands. Don’t tell me you already forgot,” a brunette on the far side of Rosaria speaks up.

“Don’t let Jean know you’re skipping out on your duties, Cavalry Captain,” Rosaria finishes her drink and slips off the bar stool. “Don’t make Nicola drag your drunk ass back to HQ again.”

As Rosaria slips out of Angel’s Share, Nicola takes Rosaria’s seat, joining the conversation.

“Rosaria is a little cold, but she means well. I usually see her in the Cathedral after my daily commissions,” Nicola finishes her drink and waves the bartender over.

“What can I get you tonight?” a man with brown hair takes the empty glasses from the bar.

“Good evening, Charles. No Diluc tonight?” Kaeya sips on his own drink.

“Master Diluc is very busy preparing orders for Weinlesefest. If you stop by tomorrow evening he should be here.”

Setting his now empty glass on the counter, Kaeya sighs, “Guess I’ll have to come back tomorrow then.”

Kaeya sets a bag of mora on the counter and slips off his bar stool and turns to Mingxi, “Will I see you tomorrow night?”

“I guess you’ll find out, won’t you.”

Chapter Text

The next night, Mingxi is already at Angel’s Share by the time Kaeya and Nicola get there.

“Mind if we join you?” a familiar silky voice asks while sliding into the bar stool next to Mingxi.

“You should really ask before you sit down,” chides Nicola as she takes the seat on Kaeya’s other side.

Looking behind the bar, a familiar brunet is taking an order at the far end.

“Looks like Diluc isn’t here tonight either,” Nicola points out as Charles makes his way over to the trio.

“What can I do for you tonight?” Charles pulls out three glasses and sets them neatly on the counter.

“Two Death After Noons, one grape juice, and an answer to my question,” Kaeya rests his chin in the palm of his hand with a smirk.

“Coming right up. What question do you have for me tonight, Kaeya?”

Charles slides the glass full of grape juice towards Nicola while he prepares the Death After Noons.

“Is Diluc still cooped up in that winery preparing orders? I would’ve thought he’d be front and center for Weinlesefest.”

“Something came up tonight that Master Diluc had to address. Something about replicating A Thousand Wind Wine. If you really need to see him, try visiting Dawn Winery tomorrow. He’s usually on site if he isn’t personally delivering shipments.” Charles slides the two glasses of sparkling wine toward Kaeya and Mingxi.

“Thank you, Charles.”

“So why are you interested in Master Diluc?” Mingxi twirls the sparkling wine in her glass.

“You could say Diluc and I have history, but what about yourself? You’ve been coming in here the past couple nights.” Kaeya sips on his drink with a small glint in his eye.

Nicola snorts a little and sets her glass down, “You make it sound creepy, Kaeya.”

“I’m merely curious why someone from Liyue would be so interested in Angel’s Share.”

“Well if you’re so curious to know, I’m a journalist. I’m supposed to write an article about Dawn Winery’s batch of wine this year,” Mingxi takes a sip of her drink and makes some notes in her journal.

Nicola rests an elbow on the counter to peer around Kaeya, “What else do you write about other than wine?”

“I mostly write about what goes on in Liyue Harbor from new sales to the stories Captain Beidou brings back from her most recent journey.” Mingxi takes a sip of her drink. “It has been a lot more lively since Rex Lapis’s death and the traveler coming to the city though.”

“Well if you’re ever interested in writing an article about the Knights of Favonius, I’d be happy to give you an interview,” Kaeya smirks into his drink.

“I usually try to keep the topic local to Liyue unless it’s a big event, such as the Weinlesefest. My editor wants to make sure the people of Liyue find an interest in what we write about.”

Nicola finishes her drink and sets the glass on the counter, “Have you ever worked with the Adventurer’s Guild? I know there have been some events that might’ve interested your editor.”

“I’ve worked with the Adventurer’s Guild a few times. I did conduct some interviews with people who were a part of the sleeping meteorite problem we had. Almost would’ve touched one near Stones Gate if it wasn’t for a nice young boy dressed in unique clothes.” Mingxi rests her chin on the back of her hand. “I haven’t seen him around in a while.”

Kaeya raises an eyebrow and leans toward Mingxi, “Oh? What kind of unique clothing? Been keeping an eye out for him?”

“Like a ‘not from around here’ kind of clothing.”

“I see,” Kaeya sits back and sips on his drink in thought.

Mingxi makes a few more notes in her journal before finishing her drink. After letting the ink dry, she neatly packs her journal away in her crossbody bag.

As Mingxi gathers her things, Nicola peers around the thinking Kaeya, “Will you be joining us tomorrow?”

“Maybe. I might be busy tomorrow night, depending on how things go with the festival,” shrugging the bag onto her shoulder, Mingxi hops off the bar stool and heads toward the door. “Goodnight you two.”

“Goodnight.”

Nicola turns back toward Kaeya, “What’s on your mind?”

“Hm? Oh. I was just thinking about how Mona and Aether mentioned running into a boy in unique clothes while investigating the meteorites for the Guild,” Kaeya quickly downs the rest of his drink. “How very interesting.”

Chapter Text

The late night is cool in contrast to the warmth of Angel’s Share. A light breeze tugs on Mingxi’s hair as she pulls her jacket out of her leather bag. Pulling on the extra layer and adjusting the bag on her shoulder, Mingxi makes her way down the steps toward the back gate of Mondstadt.

As she descends the steps, the sound of a lurking abyss mage alerts her to the danger. However, it’s too late.

She’s been spotted.

Gang gang woo

Before Mingxi can race back up the steps toward Angel’s Share, the hydro abyss mage appears in front of her and traps her in with large spheres of water. With a wave of its wand, Mingxi is drenched in water.

Mingxi takes her chances and runs up the stairs toward the tavern, however, before she can get far, a cryo abyss mage appears in its shield. Thanks to the hydro abyss mage, the cryo abyss mage has no problem making its ice shards feel as if they’re freezing Mingxi from the inside out.

As if Mingxi were frozen in place, she’s left defenseless against the mages’ attacks.

Suddenly, Mingxi is surrounded by warmth, but as soon as it comes it’s gone and so are the abyss mages.

“Are you hurt?” a masked man dressed in black with vibrant red hair offers Mingxi a gloved hand.

“Well, well, what do we have here?” a familiar bluenet approaches the two. “I thought I heard some commotion.”

Without acknowledging Kaeya, the masked man quickly leaves.

“Who was that?” Mingxi looks in the direction the man left in.

“That would be the infamous Darknight Hero of Mondstadt,” Kaeya gives brief information about the Darknight Hero and his contributions to the city of freedom.

While Kaeya tells stories of the Darknight Hero, Nicola works on pulling the water from Mingxi’s clothes.

“Are you hurt at all?” Nicola dispurses the water onto nearby plants and checks over Mingxi. “A run-in with abyss mages can be quite rough.”

“I think I’m fine. The hydro mage wasn’t bad, but when the cryo mage showed up it felt like I was being frozen from the inside out,” Mingxi shivers at the memory.

“That’s typical when you have to deal with hydro and cryo mages at once. Let’s get you home so you can warm up.”

Kaeya and Nicola walk Mingxi back to the hotel she’s staying at and bid her a good night.

As Kaeya and Nicola make their way towards the Knights of Favonius Headquarters, Nicola glances over at Kaeya.

His brow is furrowed slightly and his lips turn down at the corners. Every once in a while he will glance around as if he were on patrol. Considering two abyss mages were just spotted by Angel’s Share, the Captain might be expecting more enemies to show up. It’s not uncommon for the abyss to bring along hilichurls.

Nicola nudges Kayea with her elbow, “You’ve got that thinking face on. What is it?”

“Hm? Oh, curious?'' The tension in Kaeya’s face disappears and is replaced with his usual smirk. “I’ll tell you if you take me on another commission tomorrow.”

Crossing her arms, Nicola looks away in mock offense, “You’re just using me to get out of your duties.”

“Oh, am I?” Kaeya leans in closer.

Nicola turns further from Kaeya as a blush starts to rise due to the close proximity. Hoping she can blame the redness on the cold, Nicola turns back toward Kaeya, “You gotta finish your work if you’re going to accompany me on my commissions.” She puts her hands on her hips. “And no lying.”

He puts his hands up in mock surrender, “Alright, I promise.”

Chapter Text

The next morning, Mingxi wakes up to receive a letter from her brother.

Sister,
I’ve been assigned to go after some treasure hoarders in Bishui Plain.
I don’t know if I will be back before you return from Mondstadt.
Be careful on your way home.

At the bottom of the letter is a scribbled signature.

Mingxi smiles fondly at the letter and carefully tucks it away in her leather bag. After doing an inventory check, she slips on her shoes and fixes the flattened heels of her black flats.

Mingxi stops to talk to Katheryne at the Adventurer’s Guild before heading out for the day.

“Ad astra abyssosque. Welcome to the Adventurer’s Guild. How may I help you?”

“Do you have a map? I would like to get to the Dawn Winery.”

“Of course,” Katheryne pulls out a map and marks it as she explains. “When you leave Mondstadt, make a right after crossing the bridge and continue through Springvale. From Springvale, you’ll see a Statue of Seven up on a hill. You should be able to avoid most of the hilichurls if you aim for that statue. Dawn Winery is just below.”

“Thank you so much,” rolling up the map, Mingxi tucks it safely into her bag.

Mingxi follows Katheryne’s instructions and is soon making her way past Springvale and toward the Statue of Seven. While walking up the hill, she hears a large explosion and sees a young boy tumbling in her general direction.

“Ow… Just my luck. At least my teammates didn’t get caught up in that,” the blond boy gets back on his feet and dusts himself off.

“Are you alright? That was quite an explosion I heard,” Mingxi’s eyebrows furrow as she checks the boy over for any injuries.

The boy rubs the back of his neck and looks away, “Oh, don’t worry about me. I usual—”

“Bennett! Are you alright? We cleared out the camp and—, oh Mingxi, when’d you get here?” Nicola runs down the hill toward Bennett with Kaeya and Aether following close behind.

“I was on my way to Dawn Winery when I heard this explosion before seeing a boy tumble in my direction.”

“I’m fine you guys. I only have a few scratches this time!” Bennett tries to comfort his teammates and Mingxi.

“We just seem to keep running into each other don’t we,” Kaeya and Aether gather with the group. “Have you met the Honorary Knight yet?”

Mingxi turns toward Aether and holds out her hand, “Nice to meet you Honorary Knight. I’m Mingxi, a journalist from Liyue.”

Aether shakes her hand then gestures toward the small floating girl next to him. “I’m Aether and this is Paimon. Nice to meet you.”

“If Paimon remembers correctly, you were the girl we saw hanging around Childe and Zhongli after the Rite of Decension incident,” Paimon scratches her head.

Mingxi stiffens a little bit at the mention of the 11th Harbinger.

Her lips pull down a little and her eyebrows furrow, “Yeah, that was probably me.”

“You don’t look too happy about it though. Last time you were all smiles and laughter with those two,” Paimon tilts her head with her hands behind her back.

Aether shushes Paimon before the floating girl can pry further.

“Well… a couple commissions we took take us by Dawn Winery, so we can drop you off there if you’d like,” Nicola offers, hoping to make the awkwardness dissipate.

Mingxi smiles, “I’d like that, thanks.”

Chapter Text

After healing themselves at the Statue of Seven, the group makes their way down the hill toward Dawn Winery.

“Here we are,” Nicola and Aether walk Mingxi to the door while Bennett and Kaeya run through the vineyard after a few crystalflies. “Do you want us to pick you up after our commissions?”

“Oh no need. I should be able to find my way back easier,” Mingxi smiles. “Thanks for the offer though.”

“Adelinde is nice, so no need to worry,” Paimon gives Mingxi some tips about Dawn Winery. “Diluc is also really nice. One time he gave us a whole bottle of grape juice for free!”

Aether smiles and shakes his head, “Always thinking about food aren’t you, Paimon.”

Mingxi laughs, “Well if you ever find yourself in Liyue I should make you some of my dumplings.”

At the word “dumplings,” Paimon’s eyes sparkle and she starts drooling. “Aether, we have to go to Liyue now!”

Aether, Nicola, and Mingxi laugh at the floating girl.

“Well, if we’re to get these commissions done we better head out. Good luck on your interview,” Nicola rounds up the group and they say their farewells to Mingxi.

Mingxi waves toward the departing group before taking a deep breath and knocking on the front door of Dawn Winery.

After a few moments, the door opens.

A woman with shoulder length blonde hair with straight across bangs greets Mingxi, “Hello. I’m the head housemaid, Adelinde. How may I help you?”

“Hello. I was wondering if I could interview Diluc Ragnvindr about Dawn Winery for the Weinlesefest,” Mingxi explains. “I’m a journalist from Liyue hoping to write an article about Mondstadt’s festival in honor of the Anemo Archon.”

Adelinde ushers Mingxi into the winery and leads her upstairs to Diluc’s office.

Adelinde knocks on the door and there’s a faint “come in” with some shuffling of papers. Adelinde opens the door to reveal an office with walls covered in bookcases and a red haired man sitting at the desk with a large window illuminating him from the back.

The man looks up and nods to Adelinde then looks to Mingxi, “Who is this?”

“This young lady has traveled all the way from Liyue to interview you and your winery, Master Diluc,” Adelinde introduces Mingxi.

“I thought I could highlight the Dawn Winery during the Weinlesefest for this month’s article, if that’s alright with you,” Mingxi explains why she’s come to Mondstadt.

Diluc shuffles some papers on his desk, “I can give you an interview, but it will have to wait until this paperwork is done. Adelinde can show you to the study if you’d like to wait here.”

“Thank you, Master Diluc,” Mingxi thanks Diluc before following Adelinde to the study.

Adelinde brings Mingxi some refreshments while she waits for Diluc to finish his paperwork. Mingxi browses around the room, but eventually settles in one of the chairs and takes interest in the chess board on the table in front of her.

After a little while, Diluc joins Mingxi in the study room.

“Sorry for the wait. Weinlesefest is a busy time for the winery,” he takes a seat across from Mingxi and notes her interest in the chess board. “How would you like to conduct this interview?”

“I was thinking it could be a more casual interview. I’ll ask you some questions and I will take note of your answers. From the start to the end of the interview, everything said is on record unless stated otherwise. Is there anything you’d like to add?” Mingxi takes her notebook and pen out of her bag

“No, I’ll let you take the lead. If you’re interested, we could play a game of chess while you ask me questions.”

Mingxi nods in agreement and they set up the chess board. Mingxi asks Diluc some questions about the winery and the process of making the wine while they play. Once in a while Mingxi will jot down notes of the conversation in her notebook. During the interview, Diluc asks Mingxi about her interest to interview the winery and the wine industry in Liyue.

The conversation continues smoothly as the game comes to a close end. Diluc wins the game, but neither had many pieces left on the board. The afternoon sun casts a warm glow on the room and the two realize how late it’s gotten.

“Thank you for letting me interview you, Master Diluc,” Mingxi packs away her notebook and pen while Diluc puts the chess pieces away.

“I should apologize again for keeping you waiting. I enjoyed our chess match though. It’s been a while since someone tested me this much.”

Mingxi smiles and adjusts her bag over her shoulder, “You should thank my brother for that.”

Diluc walks Mingxi to the foyer and Adelinde asks Mingxi if she’d like to stay for dinner as it’s getting late.

Mingxi declines, but there’s a sharp knock on the door. Curious, Adelinde opens the door to reveal Nicola and Kaeya.

“Oh, Nicola and Kaeya, welcome! What brings you two here?” Adelinde greets them and welcomes them into the foyer.

We were just on our way back to Mondstadt and figured we would stop by and see if Mingxi was still here,” Nicola explains. “Bennett and Aether went on ahead of us to submit the commissions and get Bennett patched up.”

“I was just inviting Mingxi to stay for dinner. Would you two like to join us?”

Nicola accepts the invitation, but Kaeya is a bit hesitant.

“Are you quite sure you won’t stay for a meal after coming all this way, Master Kaeya?”

“I couldn’t possibly, Adelinde. I wouldn’t want to trouble you,” Kaeya rubs the back of his neck awkwardly.

“Oh, don’t say that. How often do I get a chance to indulge my dear Master Kaeya, hmm? I only get to spoil you if you’ll let me cook for you,” Adelinde insists it wouldn’t be any trouble.

“Surely you wouldn’t dream of disappointing Adelinde?” Diluc crosses his arms and gives Kaeya a look.

“...Alright then. I’ll take you up on the offer.” Kaeya gives in and the group settles at the dining table.

The dinner is a little awkward between the brothers, however, Mingxi and Nicola try to keep a conversation going. They mostly converse about Nicola’s commissions and Mingxi’s interview. During the conversation, the topic switches over to wine tasting.

“Did you know the climate can affect the taste of wine?” Mingxi asks Nicola.

“I don’t know much about wine. I prefer to drink grape juice or other nonalcoholic drinks,” Nicola explains.

“Really? I thought everyone from Mondstadt loved wine.”

“Some people just don’t appreciate Mondstadt’s wine,” Kaeya joins the conversation. “Wine tasting is an art form and it’s only right that one should learn how to appreciate it.”

“I don’t like alcohol. Something about the taste I don’t like. I do like to drink grape juice though,” Diluc crosses his arms and gives Kaeya a look.

“Grape juice ferments into the most exquisite wine,” Kaeya huffs. “So unromantic.”

Diluc makes a sound like a grunt before placing his napkin on the table and standing, “Excuse me. I have some work to attend to this evening. I hope you enjoyed dinner.”

“Don’t let the Darknight Hero catch you. He might mistake you for someone suspicious wandering around at this hour,” Kaeya swirls the wine in his glass before taking a sip.

Diluc frowns, “Stupid name.”

Chapter Text

After Nicola, Kaeya, Bennett, and Aether drop Mingxi at Dawn Winery, they continue on their way to take out some hilichurl towers on the way to Stormterror’s Lair

The group startles a sleeping mitachurl under the archway and draws their weapons. Nicola and Kaeya work to freeze the mitachurl before it can hit the group with its large axe. With the enemy frozen, the group runs further down the path toward their commission.

“Why’d we run away? I was just getting warmed up,” Kaeya puts his weapon away with a pout.

“I’d like to finish these commissions before the day is over. Knowing you, you’d draw out the fight for your ‘warm up,’” Nicola leads the group toward the hilichurl towers appearing in the distance.

Bennett sets fire to the tower and Aether uses windblade to speed up the burning. While the first tower burns, Nicola and Kaeya draw the hilichurls’ attention. The four hilichurls around the towers aren’t too much trouble, but as Nicola and Kaeya are busy reinforcements arrive. The wooden shield mitachurl goes after Bennett and Aether as they work on burning the second tower. Unfortunately, Bennett gets knocked back by the shield before the mitachurl goes after Aether.

After the group finishes the commission, Nicola patches Bennett up before they make their way further into Stormterror’s Lair to defeat a ruin guard. Everything seems fine on the path until they hear the sound of a ruin guard locking in on its target before shooting missiles. Without knowing who the missiles are aimed at, the group scatters.

Bennett is the one who takes the hit.

Nicola and Kaeya make quick work of the ruin guard as they freeze it. Nicola collects the cores and the group finds a nearby waypoint. Aether takes Bennett back to the Cathedral to be healed by Barbara.

“We make a pretty good team, our hydro and cryo. Maybe we should team up more often,” Kaeya twirls his sword before putting it away.

“You better not be using me as an excuse to slack off on your knightly duties,” Nicola jabs Kaeya with her elbow.

Kaeya rubs his arm with a smirk, “I’d never do such a thing.”

Nicola and Kaeya make their way back to Dawn Winery to check in on Mingxi and walk her back. Kaeya might have chosen differently had he known he would be invited to dinner by Adelinde.

Chapter Text

A couple days after the interview, Weinlesefest is coming to an end. Nicola has a couple easy commissions and asks Mingxi if she’d like to tag along for the day. With just the two of them, they share stories of their work and of their friends.

“Wait, so you go to Angel’s Share with Kaeya and Rosaria, but you don’t like alcohol?” Mingxi questions.

“We usually end up going to the tavern when Diluc is there anyway and he understands my distaste for alcohol,” Nicola explains. “Diluc makes this nice drink that tastes like sparkling cherries.”

Mingxi thinks for a moment, “Your tavern adventures don’t have to do with a flirty Calvary Captain do they?”

Nicola’s face starts to turn red, “Wha- Of course not,” Nicola looks away. “We’re just friends.”

Mingxi gives Nicola a knowing look.

“He doesn’t like me like that. He seems more interested in you,” Nicola points out the various times Kaeya has taken an interest in Mingxi throughout the festival.

“He always wants to accompany you on your commissions and he sat next to you when Adelinde invited us over for dinner,” Mingxi points out.

“Well it’s not like Kaeya would sit next to Diluc willingly,” Nicola pouts. “Anyway we should pick up the pace if we want to finish these commissions early.”

Mingxi and Nicola speed through the errands dropping off various items to people of Mondstadt. The commissions go by smoothly with no enemies in sight. When Mingxi and Nicola make it back to the gates of Modstadt, they have plenty of time before evening sets in. Nicola takes Mingxi to Good Hunger for a late lunch where they talk more about their interests.

Nicola talks about her interests in music and nature. Mondstadt has a great climate, not too warm and not too cold, and Venti always has great music to share. Speaking of Venti, perhaps the bard would join the group for some drinks at the tavern tonight.

Mingxi tells Nicola about her brother and his work with the Millelith. She also tells Nicola about her travels to Sumeru to report on the Akademiya and new findings scholars have reported on.

“Next time you take commissions in Liyue, you should stop by,” Mingxi offers. “You’ll have to show me all the cool places you’ve been to!”

Nicola smiles, “It sounds like a deal!”

That evening, Nicola and Mingxi head to Angel’s Share for one last night of drinks. When the two arrive at Angel’s Share, Kaeya, Bennett, Aether, Rosaria and Venti are gathered around the bar.

“Mingxi, have you met Venti yet?” Nicola asks as they join the table.

“I haven’t, but I’ve heard Venti play,” Mingxi sits between Rosaria and Nicola so Nicola ends up next to Kaeya.

“Venti the bard! I’ll play you a tune for an apple,” Venti takes a large gulp of dandelion wine.

Rosaria sips on her wine, “A glass of dandelion wine after work is even better than sleeping in on Sunday.”

Diluc comes over to the table with another bottle of wine and a glass of grape juice for Nicola.

“This is the last bottle of dandelion wine for the table until you start paying your tabs. The only two people excluded from this are Mingxi and Nicola because they just got here,” Diluc takes the empty bottle from the table. “What can I get you tonight, Mingxi?”

“Can I get a Dawning Dew?”

“Of course. I’ll be back shortly.”

Diluc goes back to the bar to mix the drink while everyone engages in conversation.

“Hey, Mingxi! Have you ever been to a Rite of Descension?” Venti asks across the table while drinking a large portion of the last bottle of dandelion wine.

“I’ve been to many. As a journalist we often go to large events for a feature story in the paper. However, since Morax’s passing there’s been a lot of talk about what the Liyue QiXing will do in the future.”

Diluc comes back with Mingxi’s drink and his own glass of grape juice and joins the table.

As the night winds down, the group says their farewells and part ways. Paimon makes sure Mingxi remembers her promise to make her dumplings the next time Aether travels to Liyue. Mingxi, Nicola, and Kaeya stand by the bar as Diluc cleans the last couple of glasses.

“Diluc, is it possible to still buy a bottle of dandelion wine to take back to Liyue?” Mingxi asks.

“Of course. We have plenty in stock,” he grabs one and puts it in a bag before placing it on the counter. “That will be 100 mora.”

“100 mora? I’m sure you made me pay twice that tonight,” Kaeya crosses his arms.

“You were also paying for Venti’s share. Knowing that bard, he would never pay his own tab so I had you cover it,” Diluc puts the glasses away. “I’m going to lock up now. Have a safe trip back to Liyue, Mingxi.”

“Thank you, Master Diluc,” Mingxi smiles and the three leave Angel’s Share.

“Shall I walk you home, Mingxi? Don’t want you to run into more trouble after dark,” Kaeya offers.

Mingxi and Nicola share a glance, “I’ll be alright. The hotel is close by. Nicola might want some company though. The Adventurer’s Guild is a bit farther than the hotel.”

“I can take care of myself too you know,” Nicola gives Mingxi a look.

“Well suppose you run into a hydro abyss mage. You’d need my cryo to defeat it,” Kaeya leans on Nicola’s shoulder.

“And if it’s cryo, you’re useless,” Nicola jabs Kaeya in the ribs with her elbow.

Mingxi laughs, “Goodnight you two. I’m sure you’ll think of something if you run into any trouble.”

They head off in their separate directions and they all make it home safely. Mingxi sets the wine down on the desk in her hotel room with the rest of her packed belongings.

“Tomorrow I head back to Liyue,” Mingxi says with a sigh before getting ready for bed.

Chapter Text

A few days after Mingxi arrives back to Liyue, she submits her article about Weinlesefest to her editor. The title of her article is A Business in Bloom to feature the Dawn Winery and the young Master Diluc.

After talking to some of the Millelith around the harbor, her brother should be back from Bishui Plain soon with some treasure hoarders in tow. Since both of them have been out of the house, Mingxi stops by the market to get some groceries on her way home. While buying groceries, Mingxi runs into Zhongli on an afternoon stroll through the city.

“Oh, Zhongli! Out for your usual afternoon stroll?”

“I am. Good to see you’re back in the city. I know your brother was worried,” Zhongli replied with his hands clasped behind his back as elegant as always.

“He’s always worried when I leave the harbor, but the Weinlesefest was delightful and I was able to get an interview at Dawn Winery for my article. I just turned it in this morning,” Mingxi joins Zhongli on his stroll around the harbor.

“Congratulations. Is this your first time going to the Land of Freedom?” Zhongli asks as they walk the docks.

“Not my first, but I haven’t been there for a while. I’ve been too busy with everything that’s happened in Liyue recently,” Mingxi replies while keeping in step with the tall man.

“Speaking of wine, Degui has been working on brewing his own dandelion wine. I’ve been meaning to ask if he could try making osmanthus wine.”

As usual, Zhongli manages to steer the conversation toward his favorite beverage other than tea. While talking about dandelion and osmanthus wine, Mingxi remembers the bottle she brought back from Mondstadt.

“Zhongli, would you like to join me for dinner? I brought a bottle of dandelion wine home and was thinking of sharing it with you, Hu Tao, Beidou, and Kazuha,” Mingxi offers as they start walking away from the docks.

“That would be lovely. I’ll go tell Hu Tao. I’m sure she would insist on hosting.”

“Then I’ll go find Beidou and Kazuha.”

The two part ways. Mingxi stops at home to drop off her groceries before seeking out the Alcor.

That evening, Hu Tao, Zhongli, Beidou, and Mingxi gather at the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor for dinner.

“Kazuha is grateful for the invitation, but he said he shouldn’t drink before work tomorrow,” Beidou says before taking a large swig of dandelion wine. “He’s a good kid, but I feel he takes his work on the ship too seriously sometimes.”

Hu Tao pours Beidou more wine, “Didn’t Kazuha go to Mondstadt with Xinyan and end up drunk in a tavern?”

“He did,” Beidou raises her glass in thanks. “Maybe that’s why he decided to stay on the ship.”

“Kazuha drunk? I’d love to see that some day,” Mingxi dishes out pan-fried vegetables.

The group continues to converse well into the night. Mingxi insists on helping Hu Tao clean up the dishes. Hu Tao, Mingxi, and Zhongli work in silence and quickly clean up the room and wash the dishes. As Mingxi bids her farewells, Hu Tao insists Zhongli walks her home.

“I can walk home on my own, you know.”

“I know, but it’s late and you have to cross the harbor to get home,” Hu Tao holds Mingxi’s hands in her own. “Your brother would want us to make sure you get home safely.”

Mingxi rolls her eyes fondly, “He can’t baby me forever.”

“He will certainly try,” Hu Tao waves as Mingxi and Zhongli head across the harbor.

Mingxi and Zhongli stroll across the harbor toward Mingxi’s house.

“Thank you for walking me home.”

“I’m happy to make sure you get home safely,” Zhongli walks with his hands behind his back. “Xiao Lang cares a lot about your safety.”

As they walk, they see Childe descend the stairs from the Northland Bank.

“Hey, comrades! Haven’t seen you in a while,” Childe strolls over.

Zhongli smiles politely while Mingxi frowns at the 11th Harbinger.

“You can’t still be mad at me about the Osial incident,” Childe puts his hands up in defense. “I have my duties as a Harbinger.”

Mingxi crosses her arms, “You threatened Liyue right after we lost our Archon.”

Childe takes a glance toward Zhongli, who doesn’t visibly react.

Childe sighs, “Fine. Why don’t we grab something to eat and talk this out?”

“Don’t try to win me over with food!”

“My treat of course,” Childe gives his signature boy-ish grin.

Zhongli hums, “A cup of tea does sound lovely.”

Chapter Text

After a few weeks of going out to eat with Childe and Zhongli, Mingxi starts to warm up to her old friend. Xiao Lang isn’t too happy about it, but knows his sister is in good hands while he’s away. Being home didn’t stay quiet for too long as Liyue begins preparations for Lantern Rite. On one hand it gives Mingxi great topics for articles, but it also means she nor her brother spend much time at home.

Word quickly spread of the Crux Clash on the beach of Guyun Stone Forest, drawing a crowd to test their strength. Xiao Lang will travel to Guyun Stone Forest to make sure the contestants don’t get too carried away (and to possibly participate). One reason Xiao Lang and Childe were friends was because they liked to spar with each other. They had a mutual respect for each other as fighters. Xiao Lang still hasn’t quite gotten over the whole Osial incident, but is beginning to warm back up to the Harbinger.

“Be careful during the festival,” Xiao Lang nags Mingxi as he gets ready to leave. “Tourists can be trouble.”

“I know, I know. I’m not a child you know,” Mingxi hands him a bagged lunch and a couple of oranges.

Xiao Lang ties his sword sheath to his belt, “I know, but you’re my little sister. I have to look out for you.”

“By like 10 minutes,” Mingxi pouts.

“The best 10 minutes of my life,” Xiao Lang grins as Mingxi punches his upper arm and opens the front door.

“Better get going before it gets too late.”

“I’m going, I’m going.”

Not long after Xiao Lang leaves, Mingxi makes her way down to the docks to find a potential interview. When she reaches the docks, she sees a few familiar faces talking with Beidou.

“Mingxi!” Paimon is the first to notice and calls her over.

Beidou, Aether, Nicola, Kaeya, and Diluc look over in the direction Paimon is waving.

“Good to see you again,” Nicola greets Mingxi.

“I hear your brother signed up for the Crux Clash!” Beidou slings an arm around Mingxi. “Are you going to sign up too?”

“You know I’m not that great at fighting.”

“Oh don’t be modest, I’ve seen you fight. You could get through the first few rounds if you wanted!” Beidou shakes Mingxi a little.

“I didn’t know Mingxi was a fighter. You seem so nice,” Paimon puts her hand on her chin.

Aether nudges Paimon, “A lot of people fight even just for fun.”

“I’d be interested in signing up, Captain.” Kaeya turns to Beidou. “Sounds like a fun way to let off a little steam, don’t you think Master Diluc?”

Diluc grunts a response at Kaeya and continues watching the bustling of the harbor.

“You’re eager to jump into the ring,” Nicola nudges Kaeya. “My commissions not keeping you busy enough?”

“Fighting a few hilichurls is different than a sparring match,” Kaeya smirks.

“Hey, Comrade!” Childe and Zhongli stroll over to the group. “What’s this little gathering over here for?”

At the sight of the Harbinger, Diluc’s eyes narrow and he crosses his arms, lips pulling into a frown.

“What brings a Harbinger to our little gathering?” Kaeya smiles, hiding his icy gaze.

“Do you wanna take part in the Crux Clash?” Beidou crosses her arms challengingly. “I’m sure you’d like a good spar.”

Childe crosses his arms and smirks, “I never shy away from a fight. What about you, Xiansheng?”

Zhongli holds his chin in thought, “I won’t participate, but I’ll watch.”

Childe looks over to Aether expectantly.

Aether sighs, “I’ll join too.”

“Then it’s settled!” Beidou puts her hands on her hips. “I look forward to seeing you all there!”

A couple days later, participants and spectators gather on the beach of Guyun Stone Forest. Visions are set aside for a fair fight, but weapons are allowed.

The first line up is Aether vs Xiao Lang.

The clash of metal rings out as swords collide. Aether and Xiao Lang lock swords, deftly blocking the incoming attacks.

“It’s an honor to spar with the Outlander,” Xiao Lang says while deflecting an attack. “I hear you even took down a dragon.”

Aether goes in for another sweeping motion with his sword, “Let’s see how I fare against a Millelith soldier.”

Xiao Lang pulls back and creates distance from Aether to make it harder to land a hit. Aether rushes in with a feint stab toward Xiao Lang’s left shoulder before slashing the sword downwards towards his torso. Xiao Lang gets his sword under Aether's blade, sliding down towards the hilt. Aether disarms Xiao Lang, sword flying out of his hand and landing in the sand a few feet away.

Glancing at the sword, Xiao Lang settles into a fighting stance and holds his hands up to guard his face, “I’m not done yet.”

Aether rushes in once again. Xiao Lang deflects the sword by pushing on the flat side of the blade and sweeps Aether off his feet. Before Aether can be pinned down he pulls Xiao Lang down with him and they tussle in the sand. Aether pins Xiao Lang in the sand, one knee on his right arm and planting the sword in the sand near his cheek. With a huff, Xiao Lang yields. They stand up and brush the sand off before shaking each other's hands.

Mingxi nudges her brother in the side with her elbow, “You better not have been holding back.”

He grins and nudges her back, “Like I would throw a fight.”

The second line up is Childe vs Kaeya.

“Do your best,” Nicola encourages Kaeya.

“When do I ever do anything less?” Kaeya smirks and enters the ring.

Childe strolls into the ring empty handed while Kaeya runs one hand down the blade of his sword.

“No weapon? How bold,” Kaeya sizes Childe up. “Should I toss my blade and make it fair?”

Childe smirks, “This fight was never fair.”

Childe rushes in, keeping low to the ground. Kaeya cuts downward with his sword. The blade misses Childe’s shoulder as Childe hits Kaeya in the gut with his elbow. Kaeya grunts and stumbles back. Grabbing Kaeya’s right arm, Childe throws Kaeya over his shoulder. Kaeya quickly rolls out of the way of an incoming strike.

Childe smirks, “Not bad, not bad.”

“That all you got?” Kaeya twirls his blade.

A large tremor interrupts the match and knocks many off their feet.

After several minutes the ground stills.

Beidou walks into the ring, “Get safely back to the harbor and keep yourselves safe. Beware of aftershocks.”

People quickly gather their things and disperse back toward the harbor for safety. Aether says his goodbyes to the group before boarding the Alcor for Inazuma.

“Next time you’re in Liyue we should have a sparring match,” Childe grins at Aether.

Aether smiles and nods, “Count on it.”

Paimon flies over to Mingxi and taps her pointer fingers together, “Next time we visit we’ll get some of your dumplings right?”

Mingxi laughs, “Yes you can. I’m sure you’ll find dumplings in Inazuma too.”

“Paimon might forget all about your dumplings,” Nicola teases.

“Paimon won’t forget! We will definitely come back!” Paimon waves before joining Aether on the Alcor.

As the Alcor sets sail, Nicola, Kaeya, Diluc, Childe, Zhongli, Mingxi, and Xiao Lang make their way back to Liyue Harbor.

Chapter Text

Over the next few weeks, the tremors in Liyue started to get worse. The tremors come more frequently and have increased in strength. The Adventurer’s Guild has sent groups out to scout out the cause of the tremors. Most groups report the tremors to be strongest in Minlin near Nantianmen and Mt. Hu Lao. Large parties are sent to investigate, as the normal party of four is deemed too small to be safe if the tremors are worse at their epicenter.

Nicola, Kaeya, Diluc, Mingxi, Zhongli, and Childe are sent to Nantianmen to investigate the tremors. Xiao Lang is stationed in Liyue Harbor helping evacuees from the areas most affected by the tremors.

When the party arrives in Nantianmen, it’s unusually quiet.

“We should split up so we can cover a larger area,” Nicola suggests. “It would be better to find the source while there aren’t tremors.”

“This place seems pretty dead,” Childe sighs.

Zhongli thinks for a minute, “Perhaps splitting up in pairs would be best. We should do what we can while the tremors have died down.”

“Sounds good to me,” Kaeya places a hand on his hip. “How should we pick which direction to scope out?”

“Zhongli, Nicola, Mingxi, and Childe know the area best. We should let them decide our course of action,” Diluc reasons.

“Then that leaves the two of us,” Kaeya sighs. “I was hoping for some brotherly bonding while we’re here.”

Diluc crosses his arms, but before he can say anything Childe cuts in.

“I wanna pair up with Xiansheng! If this ends in a fight, I want to see him in action.”

Zhongli nods and Nicola, Mingxi, Kaeya, and Diluc look at each other.

“Why don’t we pair up, Nicola?” Kaeya leans his arm on her shoulder. “We’ve done enough commissions together to know we make a pretty good team.”

Nicola shrugs his arm off, “That works for me.”

Diluc nods toward Mingxi and the pairs go off in their own directions.

============

Nicola and Kaeya find themselves getting closer to the ruins in Tianqiu Valley. They run into a group of treasure hoarders, but make quick work of them.

“Look, there’s a challenge in the ruin over there,” Kaeya points to their left.

A broken bridge separates them from the challenge sitting in the ruin.

“Shouldn’t be too hard,” Nicola starts walking over. “We can split whatever treasure we find.”

“Sounds like a deal.”

Unfortunately, they weren’t counting on the challenge to lock them in the ruin.

“Hilichurls,” Nicola readies her weapon. “Shouldn’t be too hard, right?”

“Not a problem.”

The first two floors of the ruin go by quickly as Nicola and Kaeya work as a freeze team. However, their luck runs out on the top floor. Large cryo slimes and a hydro abyss mage spawn from the challenge.

“I can’t do much against the mage,” Nicola works on breaking the cryo slimes’ shields with her sword.

“Just keep the slimes off me. I’ll deal with the mage,” Kaeya brandishes icicles swirling around him, dealing cryo damage to the abyss mage’s shield.

Nicola nods and activates her skill, producing a sphere around them with swirling waves on the surface that deal hydro damage. She draws the slimes to the other side of the room and is making slow progress in breaking the shields. Time is running out, but Nicola unleashes her burst as a last resort, summoning hydro blades that break the shields and heal on hit.

With a couple seconds to spare, the challenge is complete and disappears from its stand. A chest spawns in the middle of the room.

“I’ll let you do the honors,” Kaeya gestures toward the chest.

Nicola opens the chest, but all that falls out are a few radishes.

“Radishes?! No way we did all that work for some radishes!” Nicola slams the chest shut.

“What a shame,” Kaeya’s voice comes out a little strained as he covers his mouth, but his shoulders shaking gives away his amusement.

Nicola pouts, “What’s so funny, Ice Guy?”

“You usually don’t get so worked up,” Kaeya opens the chest and takes the radishes. “Plus we got two more ruins to sweep. Maybe we will find more radishes.”

“I hope not.”

============

Diluc and Mingxi find themselves at the base of Mt. Hulao. Being unfamiliar with the area, the two wander around the base of the mountain before following the path toward the top. They run into a few straw hilichurls, but don’t have much of an issue. That is, until they start seeing large amber rocks.

Mingxi suddenly stops walking.

“What’s wrong? Are you tired?” Diluc looks back at her.

“No, I’m fine, but I know where we are now.” Mingxi looks farther up the path and sees more amber rocks. “We’re on Mt. Hulao.”

“I assume Mt. Hulao has something to do with the large amber rocks?” Diluc looks around and observes the rocks.

Mingxi nods, “People in Liyue talk about the amber rocks that protect the adeptus of this mountain. The amber rocks trap living beings and it’s difficult to break out.”

“Then we better be careful. Maybe the adeptus knows what’s causing the tremors.”

“Possibly, but only those with sigils of permission are allowed to meet with adepti.”

Diluc thinks for a moment before walking up to an amber rock and knocking on it.

“I think we will be fine,” Diluc moves away from the rock. “Let’s look a little farther ahead before turning back.”

The two continue up the mountain, but they don’t get far before Diluc steps on one of the karst crawlers. His foot is soon encased in the amber rock as it quickly moves up his leg.

Startled, Diluc pushes Mingxi out of the way, “Stay back. If both of us become trapped, no one will know where to find us.”

The amber rock moves fast and soon Diluc is covered up to his chest. He uses his claymore to try and break the amber, but his movement is restricted by the amber.

“Give me your weapon. I can break you out of there,” Mingxi reaches out toward him, her own sword in hand.

Diluc tosses his weapon toward her before being encased in amber. Mingxi is careful as she picks up Diluc’s weapon. The silver, engraved claymore is heavier than she’s used to and props it on her shoulder for support. With some effort, she swings the claymore into the amber making a decent thud. The amber encasing is quite large, so she doesn’t have to worry too much about hurting Diluc. After a few more swings, the amber crumbles away and Diluc stumbles out.

Mingxi stabs the claymore into the ground, resting on it as she wipes some sweat off her forehead, “Are you ok?”

“I’m fine. What about you?” Diluc adjusts his gloves and coat.

“A bit tired, but I’m glad you’re ok.” Mingxi hands his weapon back.

“Thank you. We should head back before we run into any more trouble.”

============

Zhongli and Childe find themselves in an area near a tree with a glowing blue branch.

Childe looks around before turning to Zhongli, “You know what’s causing the tremors don’t you?”

Zhongli nods, “You could say it’s an old friend.”

“An old friend is causing you problems huh? Is that why you wanted to come out here?”

Zhongli nods again, “I sealed him here for breaking our contract. He must’ve awakened and is trying to get out.”

Childe whistles, “A breach of contract is pretty big against the god of contracts.”

The two walk into a tunnel by the tree and stop when they’re met with a familiar looking seal. The seal sits in the cave entrance and looks quite similar to Zhongli’s own pillars.

“I probably don’t have to warn you about the fight we are walking into, but you are fighting against the oldest geovishap,” Zhongli stands before the seal.

“Don’t worry about me. I’m looking forward to fighting alongside a retired Archon,” Childe grins.

The two head into the cave and are soon met with a very large geovishap enclosed by geo pillars.

“Morax, I’m taking revenge for sealing me away for all these years,” the geovishap bellows from its confinement.

Zhongli crosses his arms, “Azhdaha, this is not how we intended for events to transpire.”

Azhdaha stomps on the ground, “Your life is mine!”

Childe draws his hydro blades next to Zhongli, “Fighting talk, I love it! Now let’s see you live up to it.”

Childe wastes no time before jumping into battle. During the battle, Zhongli’s meteors rain down on Azhdaha while Childe dons his delusion.

Azhdaha stomps the ground, pushing Zhongli and Childe back “You would forsake me again?”

Zhongli kicks his spear, “He who bears the weight of memory is destined to shoulder the burden of truth. As it ought to be.”

“The enraged earth will not absolve you!” Azhdaha roars.

Childe brushes himself off and smirks, “Come now, amuse me. Don’t you dare disappoint.”

============

As the other groups search around Milin, sudden large tremors that almost feel like giant footsteps shake the ground. There’s one large tremor before the ground goes silent.The group meets up again and recounts their experiences.

“Well we didn’t find the source, but we found some ruins near the Tianqiu Valley,” Kaeya explains.

“There were challenges in the domains and we thought we could get some treasure but…” Nicola pouts. “It was only radishes.”

Kaeya chuckles, “All that work for a few radishes.”

“We didn’t have it easy either,” Diluc looks at Mingxi. “I got trapped by amber rock, but Mingxi saved me.”

“I didn’t realize we were on Mt. Hulao until we saw the amber rock,” Mingxi scratches the back of her head sheepishly.

“We ended up by the Moonlit Tree before the tremors hit,” Childe puts a hand on his hip. “We ran into a few hilichurls, but nothing we can’t handle.”

Zhongli stands with his hands behind his back, “I don’t think the tremors will come back anytime soon though.”

Trusting Zhongli’s intuition, Mingxi agrees, “The last big tremor seemed pretty final if you ask me.”

“Why don’t we all celebrate at Wanmin Restaurant? My treat!” Childe slings his arm around Zhongli and Mingxi as the group heads back to Liyue harbor.

Chapter Text

After the tremors were taken care of, the people of Liyue could return to their homes and the festivities could continue without an issue. Everyone was free to enjoy the Crux Clash and Lantern Rite. Due to the delay, the festivities lasted longer than originally planned, which meant Nicola, Kaeya, and Diluc stayed in Liyue a bit longer than they planned. Not that it really mattered for Nicola as she picked up some Liyue commissions from the Guild. Kaeya and Diluc were more worried about their own responsibilities.

“Jean won’t be too happy to find out you’re slacking in Liyue instead of doing your duties as a Knight of Favonius,” Diluc chides.

“I can only imagine what Adelinde will say when you return to Dawn Winery after picking up after you,” Kaeya hits back while flipping a coin in the air and catching it.

“Lucky for you two we’re headed back to Mondstadt,” Nicola joins the two after submitting her daily commissions. “We have a small detour though. There’s something in Dragonspine Mingxi wants to look into for a new story.”

“We should be on our way before it gets too late,” Diluc says as the trio leaves the Adventurer's Guild.

“What would be interesting in Dragonspine?” Kaeya asks.

“You’ll just have to ask her,” Nicola says while pocketing her mora pouch. “We’re meeting her at the bridge out of Liyue harbor.”

As the trio approaches the bridge, they see Mingxi and Xiao Lang at the bridge talking with each other.

“Be careful in Dragonspine,” Xiao Lang chides as he wraps a scarf around Mingxi. “You need a heat source so you don’t freeze to death.”

Mingxi swats his hands away and unwraps the scarf, “I’m not planning to be there long and I hear there are plenty of heat towers to keep people warm.”

“You make it sound like a tourist destination,” Xiao Lang frowns.

“I’ll be fine,” Mingxi tucks the scarf in her shoulder bag. “Don’t worry so much.”

Mingxi catches sight of the trio and waves them over. Xiao Lang eyes the trio and notes the pyro vision hanging from Diluc’s belt.

Mingxi turns to her brother, “I’ll be back in a few days. Try not to worry too much while I’m gone.”

Xiao Lang ruffles her hair with a grin, “Worrying is what I do best.”

“It should be pretty easy getting through,” Nicola explains. “Some adventurers had commissions up there earlier and said the weather wasn't bad.”

Xiao Lang nods and reluctantly watches his sister leave as the group departs for Dragonspine.

The group walks toward Wangshu Inn and makes light conversation to pass the time.

“So why are you interested in Dragonspine?” Kaeya slings an arm around Mingxi’s shoulders.

“I’ve heard stories about the dragon named Durin and that his body was left in Dragonspine,” Mingxi explains. “I’d like to look at the bones and see if there’s a story I can tell about the icy land.”

Kayea nods, “You know, we have an alchemist that spends quite a bit of time there. Maybe you’ll run into him.”

“Last I heard, Albedo and Sucrose were planning to collect some materials,” Nicola adds.

“Would they be able to tell me about Durin?” Mingxi asks.

“Albedo is very knowledgeable. I’m sure he could tell you something,” Kaeya says.

Nicola looks to Diluc, “Will you two be joining us? Having a pyro vision would be helpful, but I know you’ll both be busy with responsibilities once you get back.”

“I’m sure Adelinde will scold Diluc if he stays away any longer,” Kaeya teases. “I might be in for a scolding myself. Jean isn’t too thrilled when work piles up.”

“And here I thought you said you were taking vacation,” Diluc crosses his arms. “You’re just slacking on your responsibilities.”

Kaeya slings his other arm around Nicola, “Part of my responsibilities is making sure Nicola makes it to Liyue in one piece.”

Diluc rolls his eyes, but doesn’t say anything else as Wangshu Inn appears in the distance. At a fork in the road, Kaeya and Diluc continue on toward Stone Gate back to Mondstadt. Nicola and Mingxi head east toward Mingyun Village to pass through Dragonspine and enter Mondstadt near the Snow Covered Path.

============

Kaeya and Diluc make a quick stop at the Wangshu Inn.

“I’d like one order of Almond Tofu please,” Kaeya asks Smiley Yanxiao.

“Please wait here,” Smiley Yanxiao directs the two to a table behind the stairs near the kitchen.

Diluc sits across from Kaeya, “I didn’t take you for someone who orders sweets for lunch.”

“It’s not for me,” Kaeya leans back, one arm around the back of the chair. “I told Klee I’d pick her up something from Liyue.

Diluc nods and the two fall into a silence.

“So,” Diluc fidgets with his gloves. “You’ve taken quite an interest in Mingxi.”

“Oh?” Kaeya props his head up with one hand and leans towards Diluc. “You want to talk women?”

Diluc flusters and looks away, “You shouldn’t lead women on or give them a false sense of interest.”

“Who said she isn’t interesting?” Kaeya’s lip twitches into a smirk.

Diluc remains silent.

“Well,” Kaeya leans back in his chair again. “I don’t have an interest in Mingxi, nor am I leading her on. Love is like wine. It’s an art form you wouldn’t understand.”

“Bold statement considering I run a winery.”

============

Nicola and Mingxi make good time passing through Mingyun Village into Dragonspine. The two walk along the path going by the outskirts of Entombed City and overlooking Wyrmrest Valley.

“Oh wow, look at those bones!” Mingxi quickly pulls out her kamera to take some pictures.

Nicola looks out over the valley, “I hear some people find a tooth if you look long enough.”

Mingxi returns her kamera to her shoulder bag, “If only we had that kind of time.”

They walk a little farther and find Albedo and Sucrose working on experiments in the little cave Albedo decked out in alchemy gear.

“Albedo, Sucrose, nice running into you two,” Nicola says while the two take shelter from the cold next to one of the burners near the cave entrance.

“Nicola, unusual to see you here,” Albedo looks up from his work at a desk at the back of the cave. “You must be Mingxi. I’ve heard a bit about you from Weinlesefest. What brings you two to Dragonspine?”

Mingxi smiles, “Nice to meet you. Nicola and Kaeya told me you have some knowledge on Durin.”

Albedo nods, “I do. I can tell you about him if you don’t mind accompanying me to gather some samples. Many hands make light work.”

Albedo, Mingxi, Nicola, and Sucrose depart back towards the outskirts of the Entombed City collecting starsilver ore. While the group collects samples, Albedo tells Mingxi about the legend of Durin.

“Durin was a dragon created by Rhinedottir. Durin invaded Mondstadt 500 years ago and wreaked chaos on the city. Dvalin, one of Mondstadt’s Four Winds, killed Durin and his body fell on Vindagnyr,” Albedo explains.

Mingxi listens intently, soaking in all the new information, “That’s so fascinating. Dragonspine has so many mysteries.”

“That it does,” Albedo brushes some snow off his pants. “There’s a starsilver deposit a little farther ahead. I’ll go collect that and we can head back to camp.”

As Albedo leaves, Minxi, Nicola, and Sucrose continue working on the ore deposit. However, not too much time goes by before Albedo returns.

“Mr. Albedo, you’re back already?” Sucrose asks.

Albedo nods, “I’m actually having some trouble carrying back all the ore myself. Can you bring the basket over?”

“Of course we can,” Nicola grabs the basket and the group follows Albedo to the ore deposit.

The group continues walking until they reach a large flat area that looks to be part of the ruins scattered around Dragonspine.

Sucrose looks around, “Where’s the ore deposit you need help with?”

“It doesn’t look like there’s much here,” Nicola puts the ore basket down.

“Albedo?”

They look at Albedo’s back as he stands in the middle of the circle. Albedo’s sword suddenly appears in his hand as he rushes at Sucrose.

Nicola jumps in and parries his attack with her own sword, putting up a hydro shield around Sucrose, Mingxi, and herself. As Nicola swings at Albedo, he throws up a wall of ice to block the attack. Mingxi comes up from behind and slashes at Albedo, but he jumps up in the air, creating icicles that rain down on them. The force of the icicles is too great and shatters Nicola’s shields.

When Albedo lands, Sucrose throws out a small vial and covers her ears, “I’m so sorry Mr. Albedo.” Her burst is unleashed, pulling Albedo in and tossing him in the air repeatedly.

From the ground, Albedo creates large spikes of ice shooting up from the ground. The three fall back and watch as Albedo stands. He summons a cryo version of his geo flower in his hand and raises it into the air. Nicola, Mingxi, and Sucrose stare at it in concern as none of them have a vision that works well against cryo. Albedo smirks evilly at the three, but his smirk soon turns to shock as he is stabbed in the back. The trio stares as they see another Albedo at the end of the sword.

“Mr. Albedo?”

The Albedo that’s been stabbed falls to his knees and unleashes a large stockwave before disintegrating, causing snow on the nearby mountain to roll down onto the group in an avalanche.

Chapter Text

“Run!” Albedo shouts and leads the group to a large rock for safety.

Nicola throws up a large hydro shield to protect the group from the snow.

The roar of snow rushes by and then falls silent. Only the quiet shush of the waves from Nicola’s shield can be heard. The four of them are trapped under who knows how many layers of snow, but the shield provides decent protection from being buried alive. The cold settles in quickly as Albedo calculates how long they have for a rescue party to save them.

“One person could survive on average about 45 minutes trapped in the snow like this,” Albedo thinks. “With four of us. We would need to be rescued in less than 20 minutes.”

“That doesn’t give us much time,” Nicola looks at how her shield is holding up.

“To conserve oxygen, we will need to control our breathing, which means less talking and breathing slower.”

The group follows Albedo’s advice and falls into a silence. They huddle together to conserve some warmth, but the cold seeps into their skin. The cold is so numbing it could almost feel warm. The slowed breathing Albedo demonstrates helps the group conserve oxygen, but the sheer cold and lack of oxygen is starting to cause issues. Their breathing also slows as hypothermia sets in. The lack of oxygen makes it harder to breathe.

After about 15 minutes, Sucrose breaks the silence, “Mr. Albedo… No one is coming, are they….”

“I can’t say. The Adventurer’s Guild must’ve been notified and Timaeus is back at camp, so he might’ve alerted them that we are out here, but they don’t know where we are.”

The group huddles closer together, but there’s no heat left to share.

Mingxi turns to Nicola, “I’m sorry for dragging you up here. You could be back in Mondstadt.”

“It’s a risk every adventurer makes. I’d feel worse knowing you are trapped and I couldn’t do anything about it,” Nicola smiles at Mingxi.

A few more minutes pass and the group loses hope of being rescued. The sheer cold has numbed their bodies and their lips are turning blue. They’re breathing in more carbon dioxide than oxygen and are starting to fall unconscious due to suffocation.

============

“Hey! They’re over here!”

Chapter Text

Word of the avalanche on Dragonspine spreads quickly. The Adventurer’s Guild gathers members and Knights of Favonius to help in a search party. Timaeus had run down the Snow Covered Path toward the adventurer camp in a panic. He quickly explained that Albedo, Sucrose, and two women went off to gather supplies just before the avalanche.

Once Jean hears about the avalanche, she gathers Swan and Huffman as they have experience dispensing medication for the injured. Kaeya is walking the halls and overhears Jean talking to Swan and Huffman about the avalanche and to prepare supplies for Albedo, Sucrose, and two women.

Hearing this, Kaeya freezes.

The room is suddenly very quiet and all Kaeya can hear is his pulse racing in his ears. Before he realizes, he’s rushing out of Mondstadt to Dawn Winery to get Diluc’s help.

When Kaeya gets to Dawn Winery, Diluc is already prepared to leave with supplies loaded in a cart.

Diluc notices Kaeya racing up the path towards him, “Well you’re in a hurry.”

“Nicola and Mingxi are in trouble,” Kaeya rushes to explain. “Timaeus said they might be caught in the avalanche.”

Diluc’s grip on the cart tightens, “Then we should hurry.”

They rush to the Dragonspine Adventurer Camp and spot Timaeus gathering a search party.

“A search party hasn’t been sent out yet?” Kaeya thinks. “How much longer do they even have?”

Kaeya is brought out of his thoughts when he feels a strong grip on his upper arm. Looking over, he recognizes the glove.

“Don’t rush in. Cryo won’t be much help here,” Diluc releases his grip. “Let’s join the rescue party.”

Kaeya scowls but allows Diluc to lead him over to the small group.

The small rescue party consists of Timaeus, Bennett, Lynn (an adventurer and survival expert), Diluc, and Kaeya.

Timaeus leads the group into Dragonspine to where Albedo usually collects starsilver.

Once the rescue party can see the avalanche, they spread out to cover more ground.

Before long Lynn calls out, “Hey! They’re over here!”

Diluc and Bennett make quick work of melting the snow and digging the four people out.

Once Albedo, Sucrose, Nicola, and Mingxi are out of the snow, Bennett rushes back to camp to start making preparations.

On the walk back to camp, Albedo is the first of the four to wake up on Timaeus’s back.

“Timaeus?”

“Albedo! You’re awake!” Timaeus adjusts his hold on Albedo.

“Thanks for coming to get us,” Albedo puts his hands on Timaeus’s shoulders. “Any longer and we would’ve been goners.”

Upon hearing that, Kaeya holds Nicola a little tighter. A relief that they should all be alright with some care.

Mingxi woke up to something red and fluffy tickling her nose. Looking up she saw Diluc looking back at her. With a small smile Mingxi rested her head on his shoulder and found comfort in Diluc’s warmth.

Nicola woke up and shivered a little. She found herself being held a little tighter, but Kaeya’s eye remained focused ahead of him. Looking up at him, Nicola felt a blush rise to her cheeks, keeping her face somewhat warm.

By the time the group gets back to camp, Sucrose, Nicola, and Mingxi also regain consciousness. Warm bowls of goulash wait for them with blankets and heat lamps set up.

Swan comes over and fills out some paperwork about what happened and to alert the Adventurer’s Guild that all commissions to Dragonspine are to be put on hold for the time being.

Huffman addresses the group, “Jean will want to hear what happened on the mountain.”

Albedo puts his bowl of goulash to the side, “I’ll talk with Jean when I get back.”

“I can go with you, Mr. Albedo,” Sucrose says while eating her goulash.

“Alright,” Albedo faces Nicola and Mingxi. “You two can stay here. I’m sure Jean won’t mind if the two of us go.”

Nicola and Mingxi nod while relishing in the warmth the goulash provides.

“Maybe I’ll stop by and see Jean,” Nicola says. “I’ll need to go back to Mondstadt anyway.”

“Oh no you don’t,” Kaeya appears behind Nicola. “You need more rest. You were the last to wake up.”

“That doesn’t mean I need more rest,” Nicola grumbles.

Mingxi smiles, “Some rest would do some good though. Albedo and Sucrose are pretty resilient to head back to Mondstadt now.”

Hearing this, Sucrose blushes and tries to hide her reddening face behind her soup bowl.

Diluc joins the group overhearing Kaeya, “Why don’t we go back to Dawn Winery? It’s a shorter trip.”

“I’m sure Adelinde would love some company over for dinner,” Kaeya chuckles.

Diluc raises an eyebrow, “Are you inviting yourself over for dinner?”

Kaeya goes silent, but grumbles something about wanting a home cooked meal every once and a while while carrying Nicola over to the now empty cart Diluc brought.

Nicola and Mingxi resist riding in the cart, but lose the argument as both men insist they should rest.

When Adelinde hears about what happened on Dragonspine, she ushers the women into the winery and into hot baths. She then sets the men to make sure Nicola and Mingxi have proper rooms set up for as long as they need to stay.

That night, Kaeya and Diluc don’t bicker as much as usual at the dinner table. Part of that is due to Adelinde, but another part of them is so relieved that Nicola and Mingxi are safe.

“Thanks for letting us stay here for the night, Diluc,” Nicola says while sipping on her grape juice.

Diluc nods, sipping on his own, “You’re always welcome at Dawn Winery. You too, Mingxi.”

“What about me, Master Diluc?” Kaeya swirls his wine.

Diluc looks at Kaeya, “You already invite yourself over all the time.”

“You should come over more often so I can cook for you,” Adelinde comes over and fills Kaeya’s wine glass.

Kaeya grins, “I would hate to bother you, Adelinde.”

“Oh it’s not a bother when it’s something I want to do,” she takes the empty plates back to the kitchen.

Soon the four move to the couches by the fireplace. However, Mingxi goes to bed early.

“Diluc, could you show me which room I’m in?” Mingxi asks.

“Of course,” Diluc rises off the couch and adjusts his coat. “Follow me.”

Kaeya grabs a blanket off the back of the couch and wraps Nicola in it.

“Kaeya, I’m fine,” she tries to push his hands away. “Sitting by the fire is keeping me warm enough.”

“You may feel fine, but you still need your rest,” Kaeya says.

“The danger is gone,” she frowns.

“You wouldn’t have been in danger if you weren’t so reckless,” Kaeya snaps, putting his hands on his hips.

Nicola sits in a stunned silence. She’s seen many sides of Kaeya, but this is the first time he’s ever lost his cool in front of her.

Kaeya grumbles, “Whatever,” and leaves Nicola on the couch, going to his room.

Nicola wraps the blanket around her a little more, “Idiot.”

Chapter Text

After hearing about what caused the avalanche on Dragonspine, Jean opted to keep the information confidential and asked those involved to keep quiet about the appearance of another Albedo. It’s been hard for Nicola to keep the information from Kaeya, so she would always avoid the topic.

A couple weeks go by and Mondstadt reopens their Dragonspine commissions. Some adventurers are still wary after the recent avalanche, but others take the commissions for the extra mora.

Nicola storms out of the Knights of Favonius headquarters as Kaeya calls out after her.

“You’re not taking that commission!” Kaeya grabs her wrist, but she shakes him off.

“Why not? I’ve taken Dragonspine commissions before!” Nicola continues down the steps toward Mondstadt’s gate.

Kaeya groans and follows after her, “Last time you got caught in that avalanche.”

“It’s not like I planned to,” Nicola huffs. “Dragonspine is unpredictable.”

Kaeya grabs her wrist again, pulling her back towards him, “You’re being unreasonable.”

“I’m being unreasonable?” Nicola scoffs. “I’m an adventurer. There’s going to be danger. It’s an occupational hazard.”

“Then leave the Guild,” Kaeya mutters under his breath.

Unfortunately, Nicola hears him.

“Being an adventurer is my livelihood,” Nicola tries to get out of his grip.

Kaeya’s grip holds firm, “You can get a job in the city.”

“But I want to explore.”

“It’s safer here.”

“I don’t care about safety,” Nicola finally gets out of Kaeya’s grip. “I want to see more than Mondstadt’s walls.”

Kaeya’s hand drops to his side and his eye goes cold, “Then leave.”

Kaeya turns on his heels, leaving Nicola by the stone bridge just outside of Mondstadt’s gates.

“Maybe I will!” Nicola yells after him before running off towards Springvale.

On her way to Springvale, Nicola lets out a frustrated yell. All her pent up rage from her argument with Kaeya being let out. Once the rage dissipates, what’s left is a feeling of disappointment.

Nicola trudges to Springvale, but once she gets there she decides to ditch her commissions and head off to Dawn Winery.

Mingxi has been staying at the winery to recover, but is headed back to Liyue soon.

“Maybe I could go with Mingxi back to Liyue,” Nicola thinks to herself. “Some time away from Kaeya might be good.”

Nicola reaches Dawn Winery quickly and knocks on the door.

After a moment, Adelinde opens the door, “Nicola! How can I help you?”

“Is Mingxi here?” Nicola asks.

“You’re just in time,” Adelinde welcomes Nicola in. “She’s getting ready to leave now.”

Nicola smiles, “Thanks, Adelinde.”

Nicola walks up the staircase and knocks on Mingxi’s door.

“Oh, Nicola!” Mingxi smiles and slings her bag over her shoulder. “I was just heading out.”

“Would you mind a traveling partner?” Nicola asks. “I’m thinking of picking up some commissions in Liyue for a bit.”

“I don’t mind, but why the change?” Mingxi wonders.

“Well….” Nicola looks to the side, shyly.

Mingxi smiles, “You don’t have to say, but it might help.”

Nicola nods, “I’ll tell you on the way.”

The two say their goodbyes to Adelinde and Mingxi promises she will come back with some Liyuen specialties for Adelinde on her next visit. They set out for Liyue just after lunch time.

“So,” Mingxi turns to Nicola. “You wanna tell me why the sudden visit to Liyue?”

“Well you know Kaeya and I have been bickering lately,” Nicola explains.

“A lover’s spat?” Mingxi teases.

“We aren’t lovers and it’s not a spat,” Nicola pouts. “He’s being completely unreasonable.”

Mingxi smiles in understanding, thinking about her brother, “Worrying shows you care and I can see he cares about you a lot.”

Nicola crosses her arms, “Well he’s got a weird way of showing it.”

Mingxi nudges Nicola’s arm, “You didn’t see the way he looked at you when we got out of Dragonspine.”

“What do you mean?” Nicola raises an eyebrow at Mingxi.

“The worry and the fear in his eyes,” Mingxi thinks back. “Like he was scared to lose you.”

Nicola goes quiet before mumbling, “He told me to quit the Guild.”

Mingxi’s eyes widen, “What did you say?”

“I told him I want to see more of Teyvat… then he told me to leave,” Nicola’s shoulders droop.

“Then we gotta make sure he misses you by the time you return,” Mingxi rubs Nicola’s arm comfortingly as they near Wangshu Inn.

By the time they make it to Liyue Harbor, there’s a bustling crowd for the dinner rush. Having walked a long way, the two decide to head over to Wanmin Restaurant instead of cooking a meal.

The two barely step foot in the restaurant before they hear someone call out, “Hey, comrades! Come join us!”

Looking over, Childe and Zhongli are seated at a table waving them over.

“Wow,” Mingxi looks at the elaborate spread of food. “You need help eating all this?”

Childe laughs, “Xiansheng always orders the best food for me to try.”

Nicola takes the seat next to Childe, and Mingxi sits next to Zhongli.

“Here, try this!” Childe loads food onto plates for Nicola.

It’s only after Nicola takes a bite of the chili-mince cornbread buns that Childe warns her they’re spicy. Nearly spitting out the bite, Nicola’s tongue starts to burn and Zhongli slides the plate of almond tofu towards her.

“This should help, but we can also get a glass of milk,” Zhongli looks sympathetic.

“Sorry about that, Comrade.” Childe pats her on the back. “I forgot you don’t handle spice well.”

“At least I’ll die eating something good,” Nicola says between bites of almond tofu.

The table is covered in dishes including jade parcels, tianshu meat, Qingce stir fry, black-back perch stew, and crystal shrimp. They put the tianshu meat and crystal shrimp closer to Nicola to prevent another spicy meltdown. Childe dishes himself a bowl of black-back perch stew, while Zhongli and Mingxi eat the Qingce stir fry over rice.

“So what brings you back to Liyue?” Childe asks while struggling to use his chopsticks.

“I’m looking for a change of scenery,” Nicola explains. “Plus I like the commissions in Liyue.”

Childe nods in understanding, “It’s nice to move around, see the world.”

Nicola smiles, “That’s why I wanted to join the Guild.”

The two bond over their travels, while Zhongli and Mingxi talk about the upcoming Dragon Boat Festival.

============

Back in Mondstadt, Diluc is preparing a guest list for the annual Dawn Winery Ball in a couple months. As Diluc is writing down names at the table, Kaeya walks into the winery and collapses onto the couch with a sigh. Diluc looks up from his papers at the bluenet, before going back to his work at the large table.

Adelinde walks in with some more papers for Diluc and sees Kaeya on the couch, “How nice of you to visit, Master Kaeya.”

Kaeya groans in response.

“Are you hurt?” Adelinde walks over to the couch and puts a hand to his forehead. “Do you feel ill?”

Kaeya shakes his head, “I’m fine Adelinde, just a long day.”

“Well, Master Diluc, you should invite Nicola and Mingxi to the ball,” Adelinde says, walking back over to Diluc, handing him the papers. “I’m sure they’d love to get an invitation.”

“Master Diluc inviting a woman as his personal guest?” Kaeya teases, “That’s unheard of.”

“It’s not unheard of,” Diluc grumbles.

“Inviting Jean to a work event when you were a Knight doesn’t count,” Kaeya states.

“Well what about you then?” Diluc counters.

“What about me?” Kaeya sits up and looks at Diluc.

“Nicola was so eager to go to Liyue with Mingxi,” Diluc says and puts down his papers. “She’s probably trying to get away from you.”

Kaeya grumbles and lays back down.

Diluc hears something about a fight that morning.

Diluc sighs and Adelinde changes the conversation topic, “Master Diluc, if you’re going to invite a woman as your guest, you’re going to need to work on your dancing.”

Kaeya chuckles, “Your wallflower tendencies won’t impress the lady if you’re stepping on her feet.

Chapter Text

About a week has gone by and Nicola has settled into a routine in Liyue. Mornings start by waking up to the sun peeking in through the curtains. After washing her face and getting dressed, Nicola goes downstairs to find Mingxi making breakfast. Sometimes Xiao Lang is sitting at the table eating and sometimes he’s already left for work. Today, Xiao Lang is sitting at the table talking with Mingxi while he eats.

Mingxi catches sight of Nicola and waves with a pair of cooking chopsticks in hand, “Morning!”

“Morning,” Nicola yawns and sits at the table.

A bamboo steamer basket sits on the table full of dumplings next to a large bowl of wonton soup.

“Help yourself to some dumplings. They’re filled with pork and chives today,” Mingxi says while plating some noodles drizzled in chili sauce and topped with pickled vegetables.

Picking up her chopsticks, Nicola opens the steamer basket and puts three dumplings on her plate, “They look so good.”

Xiao Lang dishes Nicola a bowl of wonton soup, “I made the dumplings today while Mingxi went to the market to grab some ingredients.”

“It’s your fault we ran out of noodles,” Mingxi puts the plate of noodles on the table. “You just had to eat them all while I was gone.”

“They’re easy to make,” Xiao Lang dishes his sister a bowl of soup before putting some of the noodles on his plate.

Mingxi pouts and slurps on her soup, “You could’ve bought more.”

Xiao Lang reaches over and ruffles her hair before turning to Nicola, “You taking more commissions today?”

Nicola nods and sets down her soup bowl, “I’m hoping Katheryne will have some for me. Recently we’ve been a little short in Liyue.”

Xiao Lang nods, “Things have been a bit quiet recently.”

“I could probably go back to Mondstadt at some point,” Nicola tries some of the chili noodles. “Katheryne says there are more commissions available there.”

Mingxi slides a glass of milk towards Nicola, “Feel free to stay here as long as you need.”

Nicola takes the glass of milk gratefully, “I’ll talk to Katheryne today about going back to Mondstadt.”

The siblings nod.

Xiao Lang quickly finishes his noodles and puts his empty dishes in the sink, “I gotta head out,” he says while grabbing his sword. “I’ll do the dishes when I get back.”

Mingxi and Nicola say their goodbyes as Xiao Lang walks out the door.

Nicola heads to the Adventurer’s Guild to pick up her daily commissions and Mingxi heads to the harbor to find her next story. The day passes quickly and the three make their way home for dinner. Xiao Lang is the first home and sets the groceries on the counter before changing out of his armor. By the time Mingxi arrives home, Xiao Lang has started preparing dinner. She joins her brother in the kitchen after hanging her coat in the front closet. Nicola arrives home shortly after having had to travel all the way to Qingce Village.

“You’re just in time! Help me fold these dumplings,” Mingxi waves Nicola over, hands covered in flour.

Nicola throws on an apron and joins the siblings in the kitchen, “I hope you know I’ve never made a dumpling before.”

“It’s super simple,” Mingxi says while handing Nicola a wrapper. “Hold the wrapper in the palm of your hand and put a little filling in.”

Nicola follows along with her own dumpling.

“Next, you’re gonna fold the wrapper to create a half circle before pinching and folding to seal it,” Mingxi demonstrates slowly.

As the three make dinner, there’s a squeak of metal followed by a soft plop, before the clash of metal on metal.

“Oh, that must be the mail,” Xiao Lang sets his spatula down and wipes his hands on his apron. “A-Xi, take over the stove for me.”

Xiao Lang goes to pick up the mail, leaving Mingxi and Nicola in the kitchen. A couple dumplings later, Xiao Lang comes back to the kitchen, mail in hand, with a wide grin on his face.

“Guess who got some special mail,” he sings.

“Is it a private commission?” Nicola asks, folding a dumpling.

“Nope,” he reveals three identical envelopes sealed with a bright red wax seal. “Master Diluc has sent us letters.”

The women look at the fancy envelopes then look at each other.

“Well, are you going to tell us what they say?” Mingxi pesters her brother.

Xiao Lang laughs and opens the letter addressed to Mingxi. He unfolds the letterhead and clears his throat before reading the letter aloud.

“My dearest Mingxi, I’ve invited you to a ball at Da-”

“There’s no way it says that,” Mingxi cuts him off.

Nicola laughs, “That sounds nothing like Diluc.”

Xiao Lang pouts, “Okay, okay, here’s what it really says: You are invited to the annual Dawn Winery Ball on the 15th at sunset. Refreshments will be provided and it’s signed off in his fancy signature.”

“A ball?!” both women look at each other, eyes sparkling.

“I’ll need a dress,” Nicola frets.

Xiao Lang clears his throat and the women look at him, “Do either of you know how to dance?”

The two deflate and Xiao Lang laughs.

“Perhaps Zhongli can help us,” Mingxi thinks out loud. “I hope he doesn’t mind if we bother him on his day off.”

Chapter Text

Nicola and Mingxi saw Zhongli a few times for dance practice. The first day was horrible. Both women were stepping on Zhongli’s toes and couldn’t keep up with the timing. On the last day, Childe dropped by so both women could have a dance partner. By the end of the day, Zhongli was impressed with their improvement and they weren’t stepping on toes anymore.

Nicola helped Mingxi pick out what to wear after a long debate over whether Mingxi should wear a Liyuean style or Mondstadt style dress.

Since Nicola didn’t bring much with her to Liyue, Mingxi and Xiao Lang accompanied Nicola back to Mondstadt a few days before the ball.

The day of the ball arrives.

The women wake up early, full of excitement and anticipation. That morning, Mingxi and Xiao Lang accompany Nicola on her daily commissions. Nicola was hoping to take the day off, but she did spend a little extra on the dress she picked. With their help, the commissions will fly by.

Or so they thought.

Clearing out the hilichurl camp wasn’t as easy as they hoped. Reinforcements arrived, including two mitachurls with wooden shields to charge at them. Electro-charged isn’t the best reaction for breaking wooden shields. To make matters worse, the trio heads to Springvale only to find they must take care of hydro slimes. At least Xiao Lang could use his electro vision to react with the slimes, but Nicola and Mingxi could only hit the slimes with their swords.

By the time they submit their commissions and return to Nicola’s house, it’s late in the afternoon. The trio take turns washing up in the bathroom before getting ready for the ball.

“If you two don’t hurry up we’re going to be late,” Xiao Lang nags.

“The sun is just starting to set, plus there’s a teleport nearby,” Nicola says while pinning back her hair with silver hair ornaments resembling cecilias.

Mingxi, having finished her hair before getting dressed slips on her sheer red overcoat, “It would be rude to show up to a ball early.”

Xiao Lang huffs and crosses his arms, “To be on time is being late.”

Mingxi smiles at her brother as she adjusts her overcoat, “Yes, but this is the land of freedom.”

============

The trio make it to the Dawn Winery just as the sun is setting behind the horizon. Adelinde greets them at the door and offers to take their coats. As Adelinde takes their coats, Mingxi gives Adelinde some sticky rice wrapped in bamboo leaves as promised from their last meeting.

The three enter the main floor of the winery and other guests stare at the new arrivals.

Nicola leads the trio with the siblings behind her.

Nicola is wearing a floor length dress. The navy blue bodice is fitted with off the shoulder sheer butterfly sleeves that end just past the elbow. The skirt is a lighter blue. Attached at the waist is an outer layer to the skirt that drapes over the back almost like a waterfall.

Nicola’s hair is in a half up half down style. Her bangs neatly curl away from her face in airy whisps. The upper half is pinned back with silver hair ornaments resembling cecilias. The bottom half of her hair is neatly curled. The front ends drape over her shoulders and the rest of her hair falls down her back.

Xiao Lang and Mingxi get some looks from other guests. They both decided to wear more traditional Liyuean outfits.

Xiao Lang is wearing a black hanfu with white cloud embroidery along the lapel. His pants are plain black, blending in with the long sections of his top. The long sections of the top have more detailing along the bottom. He wears a red overcoat with more white cloud and crane embroidery on the sleeves. His short hair is styled neatly.

Mingxi is wearing a red hanfu with gold floral embroidery on her lapel. A white belt sits on her waist with gold embroidery lining the belt. She wears a white underskirt with a sheer red layer over. Her red overcoat is decorated with gold floral embroidery down the lapel and sleeves.

Mingxi’s hair is intricately piled on top of her head. Her bangs neatly frame her face with a section of hair on each side tied midway down with gold ribbon wrapped around the hair. Two small buns sit on her head holding delicate hair ornaments in the shape of silk flowers. The rest of her hair falls down her back.

Some of Mondstadt’s nobility whisper about Mingxi’s and Xiao Lang’s attire. With a scan of the room, Dilu’s red hair can be spotted on the upper floor as he talks with a woman with blonde hair tied up in a high ponytail with a black bow. Diluc wears his signature black, but this time he’s wearing a red jacket. His long hair is tied back in a high ponytail instead of his usual low ponytail at the base of his neck.

Nicola spots Kaeya sipping wine in one of the less busy corners. He converses with a woman with short light blue hair and a black headband. Kaeya wears a white button down under a black waistcoat with the top buttons undone. His white tailcoat is held closed with a gold chain. His familiar fluffy shoulder decor remains draped over his right shoulder.

Noticing the new arrivals, Diluc greets the trio.

“I’m glad you could make it,” Diluc offers them refreshments.

Diluc glances at Nicola, knowing Kaeya is sulking in the corner.

“Thank you for inviting us,” Mingxi says while taking a glass of red wine.

Nicola looks at the assortment of alcohol, “You don’t have a tray of grape juice by chance?”

“Right this way,” Diluc escorts Nicola to get some top quality grape juice.

Mingxi and Xiao Lang wander around the winery.

“I see you’re still mad at Kaeya,” Diluc says as he pours Nicola a glass of top quality grape juice.

Nicola sighs and takes the glass, “He was a jerk. Plus he hasn’t looked at me since we got here.”

Diluc glances over at Kayea still sulking in the corner. As Kaeya gets another glass of wine, he notices Diluc talking with Nicola. Kaeya sees Diluc escort Nicola towards the dance floor with a hand on her back. He frowns and takes his wine outside.

Diluc and Nicola meet back up with Mingxi and Xiao Lang.

Nicola and Mingxi wander away from the guys with their drinks.

Xiao Lang folds his arms and looks at Diluc, “So you have a thing for my sister.”

Diluc tenses, “I uh, yeah.” He rubs the back of his neck.

Xiao Lang unfolds his arms and shoves Diluc in the shoulder, “Treat her well or the Millelith will be after you.”

“I will treat her as a gentleman should,” Diluc rubs his shoulder with a small smile.

Nicola and Mingxi watch the two converse and smile.

“Looks like Diluc’s got approval,” Nicola teases.

Mingxi blushes, “What about you? Does Kaeya have your approval?”

Nicola frowns, “He hasn’t looked at me all night. And he’s gotta wear such a nice suit too!”

“Why don’t you just go talk to him?” Mingxi looks around the room for him. “It looked like he was sulking in the corner earlier.”

“Just because he looks hot doesn’t mean he’s forgiven,” Nicola huffs. “He should apologize first if I’m gonna talk to him.”

Mingxi smiles and they join back up with Xiao Lang and Diluc.

Diluc extends his hand to Mingxi, “May I have a dance?”

Placing her hand in his, Mingxi grins, “You may.”

The two head to the middle of the room for a dance. Their dance practice pays off. No toes get stepped on this evening. Whispers fly through the winery about the woman Diluc has chosen to dance with.

After their dance the two part ways so Diluc can continue greeting guests. Mingxi makes her way to the outside patio to get some fresh air. Outside, Mingxi spots Kaeya reclining on the stone wall, empty wine glass in hand.

“Are you going to sulk out here all night?” Mingxi asks as she sits beside the Cavalry Captain.

Kayea sits up, “I’m not sulking. I’m enjoying some wine outside on such a lovely evening.”

Mingxi blinks, not believing a word he says, “Well you better get it together before you lose her due to your pride.”

“I suppose she won’t talk to me until I apologize, right?” Kaeya sighs and sets his wine glass down.

“Did you even see her dress? Or have you been sulking out here since we arrived?” She prods his shoulder.

Kaeya chuckles, “How could I not notice her.”

Mingxi sighs, “And yet you won’t approach her.” She stands and brushes off her skirt before going back into the winery, leaving him outside by his lonesome.

Diluc and Mingxi share a couple more dances before the night ends. As guests start to trickle out, Diluc finds Kaeya outside.

Diluc sighs and sits next to Kaeya, “So who has the wallflower tendencies now?”

“Well it sounds like you shared a few dances with a certain someone,” Kaeya looks over at Diluc. “Did you step on her toes?”

“No and I didn’t see you dance with one person,” Diluc eyes the wine glass Kaeya’s holding. “You just drank our good wine.”

Kaeya grumbles about how Mingxi already talked to him and downs the rest of his wine.

Diluc sighs, “Well Jean mentioned something about another summer trip with Klee. Maybe it’ll take your mind off things.”

Chapter Text

Mingxi and Xiao Lang stay at the Dawn Winery for a couple nights before Xiao Lang has to head back to Liyue Harbor.

Mingxi stays a bit longer to help Nicola with commissions and sort things out with Kaeya.

As Nicola and Mingxi walk back to Mondstadt after finishing a commission, they find a giant Dodoco next to the Mondstadt bridge.

“What’s this?” Mingxi points towards the structure.

“It looks like a Dodoco,” Nicola explains. “Dodoco is Klee’s little friend. Klee is the youngest Knight of Favonius.”

They take a closer look at the structure and notice something that looks like an entrance of sorts.

“Last year Klee’s mother made a huge scavenger hunt type of surprise for Klee,” Nicola looks inside.

Mingxi looks inside too, “Do you think that’s why this is here?”

“Maybe,” The two look at the inside of the structure only then to feel it start to shake and it feels as if the floor falls out from under them.

They have a rough landing and groan as a bright light shines in their eyes.

“Look who’s here!”

Nicola opens her eyes first and notices Jean, Barbara, Klee, Diluc, Kaeya, and Albedo standing around her and Mingxi.

“Did you join us on our summer time adventure?” Klee asks, bouncing over to Nicola.

Mingxi rubs her eyes and sits up, “We found a weird structure outside of Mondstadt and it transported us here.”

“Dodoco brought all my friends here!” Klee hops over to Mingxi. “I’m Spark Knight Klee! Are you the pretty lady everyone says danced with Diluc?”

Mingxi blushes and smiles, “I am and you must be Klee. Nicola told me about you and Dodoco.”

Klee giggles and runs over to a chest overflowing with clothes, “Pick a swimsuit! We were just about to go swimming!”

Nicola and Mingxi walk over to the chest to pick out a swimsuit.

“What do you think of this one?” Nicola holds up a blue one piece with a bow at the waist.

Mingxi takes a look and shakes her head, “The color is nice, but I’d say maybe a different style.”

They dig around some more before Mingxi pulls out a red bikini, “I kind of like this one.”

“Red suits you,” Nicola says while looking over at Diluc.

“Hey!” Mingxi slaps Nicola’s arm and pouts. “I liked red before I met Diluc.”

“Uh huh and I liked the cold before meeting Kaeya.”

“Shut up and find a swimsuit already.” Mingxi pulls out a sheer golden sarong to wear over the bikini.

Nicola pulls out another blue one piece with metal rings on the straps and dark blue accents on the sides, “I think I like this one.”

After changing into their swimsuits, they join Klee, Albedo, Diluc and Kaeya at the beach. Jean and Barbara went to explore the rest of the islands.

Klee runs around in the shallows while Albedo and Kaeya chase after her. Diluc watches from the shade of a beach umbrella.

Nicola and Mingxi join Diluc under the umbrella.

Mingxi catches Nicola staring at Kaeya as he stands ankle deep in the water, his open shirt getting caught in the breeze, showing off his toned chest and abs.

“See something you like?” Mingxi nudges Nicola with her elbow.

Nicola’s face turns red and looks away, “No! Nothing at all.”

“I see you two haven’t made up yet,” Diluc looks from Nicola to Kaeya.

“I thought he’d come talk to me at the ball,” Nicola draws patterns in the sand. “And I’ve been pretty busy lately.”

“Well we did spend quite a bit on the ball,” Mingxi reminds Nicola of their shopping spree.

Nicola sighs, “Commissions are great, but I might have to pick up some side jobs to make up the money.”

“Tell me about it,” Mingxi leans back on her elbows. “It’s hard for me to find something to write about.”

They both look over at Diluc.

“Stupid winery and its job security,” Nicola sticks her tongue out at Diluc.

They all talk for a bit about their future plans before Mingxi decides to join the others in the water for a bit.

“So,” Nicola looks over at Diluc. “You like Mingxi.”

Diluc’s face turns red, “I- What?”

“Oh come on,” Nicola flicks his arm. “You invited her to your annual ball as your personal guest and danced with her.”

Diluc nods, “What about you and Kaeya?”

Nicola sighs, “I know you invited us to try and get us to make up.”

Diluc deflates a little, since Kaeya also found out his plan to get them to make up at the ball.

The two talk under the beach umbrella for a while longer before joining the others in the water. As the sun starts to set, the group gathers back up to make dinner. Kaeya and Diluc spent part of the afternoon catching crabs and fish. Klee got to do some fish blasting under Jean’s supervision. After enjoying dinner, the group splits up for the evening.

The sun just sinks below the horizon when Kaeya approaches Nicola by the water.

Nicola notices him, but doesn’t acknowledge him.

“Still not talking to me, huh?”

Nicola crosses her arms and faces Kaeya.

Kayea sighs, “Look, I don’t like fighting with you.”

“Is this an apology?”

He shuffles awkwardly and rubs the back of his neck, “I’m sorry. It’s just– when I heard about the avalanche I– It’s like I couldn’t breathe.”

Kaeya sighs and looks at Nicola briefly before looking away, “You were up there, possibly trapped in the snow. You only have 45 minutes before you die from suffocation. And you almost did.”

He pauses.

“I,” He groans and grabs Nicola’s hands. “I can’t lose you. Not you. So please. Stay with me.”

“I’m not going anywhere,” Nicola squeezes his hands and grins. “Plus you usually accompany me when you can, so I know you’ll have my back.”

Kaeya smiles, “Always.”

He brings her hands to his lips and kisses both of them, “May I have a dance?”

“Trying to make up for not dancing with me at the ball?” Nicola puts her hand on Kaeya’s shoulder as he wraps one arm around her waist.

“Diluc and Mingxi lectured me about not talking to you,” Kaeya confesses.

“Well you did avoid me the whole night,” Nicola sticks her tongue out at him as they dance on the beach.

“You looked beautiful,” Kaeya twirls her. “I had to stop myself from staring at you.”

Nicola gasps, “Is that why you wouldn’t even look at me?”

Kaeya laughs and nods.

The two dance until it’s dark. By the time they join the rest of the group, Diluc and Mingxi are the only two still up. They notice Nicola and Kaeya come back hand in hand.

Chapter Text

Summer comes and goes. As the leaves change their colors, Nicola, Diluc, and Kayea busy themselves in Mondstadt. Meanwhile, Mingxi busies herself back in Liyue.

Diluc busies himself at the winery, looking over restock orders for various distributors for the upcoming months. He sighs and sets the papers on his desk. Glancing around his office, papers are strewn across every surface. With another sigh he walks around the room, gathering the various papers. While cleaning up his office, some chess pieces are knocked off their board and clatter to the ground.

Diluc reminisces when he first met Mingxi and they played a game of chess during his interview. He remembers Mingxi mentioning having trouble finding things to report on. With the Windblume Festival around the corner, Diluc sits back down at his desk and writes Mingxi a letter asking about another interview for the Windblume Festival.

============

Mingxi has been having trouble finding work, so she spends more time at home with her brother during his week of leave. Most of their time together has been spent making various dishes. Today, the siblings are in the kitchen making dumplings. Flour is all over the counter and some dusts Mingxi’s red apron. Xiao Lang is pan frying vegetables at the stove in his green apron while the soup simmers.

After plating the vegetables, Xiao Lang helps with the dumplings, “So you and Diluc, hm?”

Mingxi blushes and squeezes her dumpling a little too tightly making some filling spill out, “What do you mean ‘me and Diluc?’”

“He totally likes you,” he says while carefully stuffing a dumpling. “So what about you?”

“Well,” Mingxi fixes her dumpling. “I do like him.”

Xiao Lang grins and bumps his hip into his sister’s, making her stumble, “My baby sister has a lover.”

Mingxi throws some flour on his face, “We aren’t official or anything like that.”

“Not yet anyway,” he wipes the flour onto his apron.

“It’s not like I can focus on a relationship now anyway,” she says while prepping another dumpling. “I need to find something I can cover and submit for work. Otherwise I’ll be stuck as a housewife.”

Xiao Lang thinks for a moment, “Mondstadt’s Windblume Festival is coming up, right?”

“It is, but we just went plus it’s so similar to the Weinlesefest.”

“Then what about the Chasm or Sumeru?” Xiao Lang takes a plate of dumplings to the stove. “It's been a while since you’ve been to Sumeru.”

“I didn’t even get very far into Sumeru,” Mingxi continues to fold dumplings. “I only talked to Tighnari about the Forest Rangers and the Withering they’re dealing with.”

He hums as the oil heats up, “Could talk to Aether when he gets back. I’m sure he will have lots of stories from Inazuma.”

“That would be a good idea if we knew when he’s coming back,” Mingxi quickly finishes up the rest of the dumplings and brings them to the stove. “I’ve heard that the Akadeymia is having issues recently.”

“That could be an interesting story,” the sound of dumplings hitting the oil fills the kitchen. “The Akadeymia is held in high regard. If they’re having issues that might be a good story.”

“I’ll talk to my boss about it if another opportunity doesn’t show up soon.”

============

Nicola finishes her commissions early. She decides to swing by the Knights of Favonius headquarters to see if Amber is around. As she approaches the headquarters, she hears the familiar sound of training dummies from around the back.

Rounding the corner, she sees Kaeya with some of the newer knights as they set up the dummies for a new lesson.

“Well look who’s here,” Kaeya saunters over. “Here to help out with training?”

“Looks like you got things covered,” Nicola looks around at the small group. “Do you need my help?”

Kaeya shrugs, “Could use a demonstration partner.”

“What do you have in mind?” Nicola eyes him suspiciously.

Kaeya grins, “A duel.”

“You’re going down,” Nicola grins back.

Kaeya gathers the group in a circle to act as the ring. Nicola swings her sword lightly to warm herself up. Kaeya holds his sword loosely.

Kaeya waits, letting Nicola make the first move.

She shoots water blades at him before throwing up her shield. Kaeya makes a wall of ice, stopping the water blades. The ice wall comes down quickly as Kaeya freezes the water making up Nicola’s shield.

“Hey!” Nicola hits the shield from the inside.

Kaeya chuckles.

“Cryo and hydro work well together to defeat enemies,” Kaeya unfreezes Nicola’s shield. “However, when working against each other, cryo has the advantage.”

Nicola shoots more water blades at him and Kaeya dodges all of them. The newer knights watch the fight in awe. By now, water has pooled under Nicola from her shield. Kaeya freezes the water under her feet, making her slip and fall into his arms.

“Falling for me already?” Kaeya smirks.

Nicola blushes and sprays him with water.

After the duel, Kaeya instructs the newer knights to clean up the training grounds. Once everything is put away, he dismisses them for the afternoon.

Kaeya leans on the wall as Nicola finishes packing up, “Are you busy tonight?”

“I should be free,” Nicola glances at him. “Why?”

Kaeya shrugs, “I got a job later at Starsnach Cliff and thought you might want to come.”

“Tell me where and when and I’ll be there,” she slings her bag over her shoulder.

Kaeya doesn’t give much detail other than they should meet up at the tree in Windrise around sundown.

============

By the time Nicola arrives, Kaeya is already sitting on the steps waiting.

“So will you tell me what the job is now?” Nicola stands in front of Kaeya with her hands on her hips.

“You’ll see when we get there,” Kaeya smirks. “I’m sure you can handle it.”

The two banter back and forth as they make their way to Starsnach Cliff. They take a detour by the Thousand Winds Temple, only to find out Nicola had already swung by earlier during commissions to handle the ruin guard that sometimes appears there.

Kaeya deflates a little when he finds out there’s no ruin guard, “How am I supposed to warm up if you’re stealing my targets?”

“Guess we'll just have to find you something more your size,” Nicola teases.

“You better not be talking about a hilichurl,” Kaeya huffs. “I’m taller than most of them.”

“Then we can find you a blazing axe Mitachurl,” Nicola smiles at him. “How’s that sound?”

On the way to Starsnach Cliff Nicola collects every Cecilia she can find, weaving around the grass looking for the flowers. When they get to Starsnach Cliff, there’s nothing there, not even the couple that frequents the spot in the evenings.

Nicola looks around, “I thought you said you had a job here?”

“I never said what kind of job,” Kaeya crosses his arms.

Nicola crosses her arms, “So then why are we here?”

Kaeya uncrosses his arms and looks out at the distant island, “Cryo and hydro go pretty well together, don’t you think?”

“Freeze is one of the better reactions,” Nicola looks at his back.

“So we should stick together then, right?” Kaeya grins.

“What?” Nicola looks at him questioningly.

Kaeya chuckles and pats her head, “Well I should get back.”

Kaeya makes his way back to the city, leaving Nicola to look at his fading figure curiously. She stays there and thinks over his words.

After a little while Nicola gasps, “He was asking me out!”

Chapter Text

Time passes quickly and soon it’s time for Lantern Rite. Mingxi received a letter that Nicola would be coming to celebrate and that she has big news to tell her.

Mingxi heads to the market to pick up some groceries and something for dinner. Xiao Lang is busy with preparations for Lantern Rite and will be home late. On her way home, Mingxi spots Nicola crossing the bridge, hand in hand with Kaeya, and Diluc trailing behind them.

Nicola waves excitedly and Mingxi waves back.

Mingxi notices Nicola holding hands with Kaeya and gives her a nudge, “So it looks like you two made up.”

Nicola recounts Kaeya asking her out at Starsnatch Cliff.

“He left me up there after confessing to me!” Nicola pouts and crosses her arms.

“I didn’t leave you up there,” Kaeya points out. “I said I had work to finish.”

“You didn’t even escort her home?” Mingxi raises an eyebrow at Kaeya.
Diluc shakes his head, “And you call yourself a gentleman making a lady walk home alone.”

“At least I asked her out,” Kaeya glares at Diluc. “Unlike someone else here.”

Now it’s Diluc’s turn to glare at Kaeya.

Nicola feigns shock, “The uncrowned king of Mondstadt likes someone?”

Diluc crosses his arms, “Don’t turn this on me.”

Mingxi smiles, “Well I’m sure you’re all tired and hungry from your journey. Come have dinner at my place!”

============

Mingxi spreads the takeout from Wanmin Restaurant on the low table in the living room while Diluc, Kaeya, and Nicola sit on the floor cushions. Xiao Lang joins them shortly after and greets the guests before joining them all at the table. Nicola catches Xiao Lang up about Kaeya asking her out while they all eat.

“You all can stay here tonight since you just got here,” Mingxi says while stacking the dirty takeout boxes.

Diluc helps clean up, “We couldn’t intrude on you so suddenly.”

“We have a guest room,” she nods towards the hallway. “You and Kaeya can share it and Nicola can share my room.”

Kaeya pouts about having to share a room with Diluc, “He’s like a furnace. The room is always too hot.”

“And you’re like an ice cube always trying to warm your cold feet on me,” Diluc argues.

Xiao Lang and Mingxi share a look.

Xiao Lang thinks, “Well, the couple could share the guest room instead.”

“Well it’s better than sharing with Diluc,” Kaeya puts an arm around Nicola.

“Diluc can share my room unless Mingxi really wants to share a room with you,” Xiao Lang wiggles his eyebrows at his sister.

Mingxi blushes, “What are you implying!”

Xiao Lang smirks and puts his hands up in surrender, “Nothing nothing!”

Mingxi grumbles and pours herself more tea.

Soon the group gets settled into the small house for the night.

Mingxi soon falls asleep, only to awake on a snowy mountain. She looks around and there are no landmarks or people. She’s standing alone on the mountain. There’s no footprints to show which way she came from. The wind howls and blows snow in a flurry. Visibility is minimal. Shivering, Mingxi picks a direction and starts walking. After walking for a bit the ground trembles. The ground stills and so does the wind. She looks around for any sign of something, someone else there with her. As she’s looking around, a rumbling starts to get louder. Looking up, a large mass of snow is sliding down the mountain towards her. Mingxi yelps and starts running away. However, she isn’t fast enough and the snow plows into her, pulling her under until she’s falling.

============

Diluc wakes up, hearing something coming from another room. At first he can’t tell what it is. He listens closer and realizes the sound is coming from the room next door, Mingxi’s room. He gets up and stands outside her room. Now that he’s closer, he can hear her sniffling and whimpering.

He knocks on her door gently.

No response.

He knocks a little louder, but to no avail. He’s about to go back to bed when he hears a scream followed by a thud. Sucking in a breath, Diluc hopes to Barbatos that Mingxi forgives him for entering her room without permission.

He opens the door to find Mingxi sprawled on the ground, one leg on the bed, blanket pulled off with her. Closing the door quietly, Diluc scoops Mingxi into his arms and sits with his back against the wall with her curled up in his lap. He pulls the blanket back onto the bed and wraps it around her. Before he knows it, he’s fast asleep and Mingxi sleeps peacefully.

============

Light shines through Mingxi’s window and she groans before burying closer to the source of warmth next to her. After giving it a little thought, she startles awake to find herself in Diluc’s lap. Diluc wakes with her sudden movements and tries to hold back a yawn.

Mingxi blushes, “When did you get here?”

“You were having a nightmare, then I heard you fall off your bed. I wasn’t planning to stay long, but you settled down and was fast asleep in my lap,” Diluc yawns and rubs at his eyes.

“Thanks for that,” Mingxi smiles.

Suddenly Xiao Lang sticks his head through Mingxi’s door, “Oh there you are. I woke up and couldn’t find you.”

Diluc blushes, he’s been caught.

Xiao Lang points his finger at Diluc, “Nothing happened with my sister, right?

Diluc is as red as his hair, “Nothing happened. She had a nightmare.”

Xiao Lang squints at him, “Mhmm.”

Mingxi throws her pillow at Xiao Lang, “Go away!”

Xiao Lang closes the door and hears the pillow thump on the other side, “Don’t be late for breakfast~!” He laughs.

============

During the day, the group takes part in some of the Lantern Rite games and spends time decorating their lanterns and writing their wishes on slips of paper.

As the sun sets, they find a vantage point just outside the harbor. They tie their wishes to their lanterns, and send them into the sky

As Kaeya lifts his lantern into the air he turns to Nicola, “What did you wish for?”

“If I tell you it won’t come true,” Nicola smiles.

Kaeya thinks, “So if I make a wish I don’t want, then tell you, then it won’t happen?”

Nicola shrugs, “I guess so, but why go to that trouble?”

Kaeya chuckles, “Because one day you’ll know.”

“If you say so,” Nicola rolls her eyes, lacing her fingers through Kaeya’s.

============

Mingxi writes her wish before tying it to her lantern. Diluc watches and ties his own wish to his lantern. They both send their lanterns into the sky.

Diluc clears his throat and awkwardly, “Do you, um, want to go out for a drink?”

Mingxi blushes and smiles, looking towards the lanterns. As she looks at the lanterns, she catches a glimpse of Diluc’s wish: “An answer.”

She chuckles, “Yes!”

Diluc reaches for Mingxi’s hand. Mingxi smiles and laces their fingers together.

“They say the adepti can hear the wishes when we send our thoughts to the sky like this,” Mingxi squeezes his hand.

“With the adepti watching over, many people are bound to get their wishes granted,” Diluc looks towards the sky as it fills with lanterns.

“With the loss of Rex Lapis, I wonder what will happen to our wishes,” Mingxi looks out into the harbor.

Diluc squeezes her hand and kisses the back of it, “I’m sure you’ll make your own wishes come true.”

Mingxi smiles, “They already are.”