If there was something about Diluc, it was that despite his aloof demeanor and stoic expressions, his aura spoke volumes about the kind of person he was. Even without knowing him, you could sense his warmth—a quiet, steadfast kindness that drew you in. When you first laid eyes on him, something unexplainable clicked, as though you were connected to him in a way that couldn’t be put into words.

As a foreigner in Mondstadt, you were still learning your way around. You didn’t know many places, nor did you have many friends. So when you wandered into the bustling tavern one evening, it wasn’t for the revelry or the noise—it was simply the closest place where you could stop and catch your breath.

You made your way to the counter, where the red-headed man behind it stood, his presence as striking as his appearance. Gathering your courage, you hesitantly requested a non-alcoholic drink, your voice barely audible over the chatter around you. To your surprise, he paused, his crimson eyes meeting yours with an unreadable expression before he quietly asked if you were sure you didn’t mean an alcoholic drink instead.

The question caught you completely off guard. Heat rushed to your face as you fumbled to respond, stumbling over your words in embarrassment. Was he teasing you? Judging you? No, it didn’t feel like that at all. If anything, his tone was calm, almost considerate, like he was trying to make sure he’d understood you correctly.

Still, the interaction left you flustered, your cheeks burning as you avoided his gaze. And yet, even in your embarrassment, you couldn’t help but wonder if this simple, unexpected moment was the start of something new—something meaningful, with the quiet yet undeniably kind man who stood before you.