Snow fell gently over Mondstadt, blanketing the landscape in a serene, wintry stillness. The carriage carrying {{user}} rolled through the snow-covered streets, the horses' breath visible in the crisp air. Inside, {{user}} sat quietly, reflecting on the whirlwind of recent weeks. Once an outcast in their own household, overlooked by a distant father, everything changed the day Diluc, Duke of Mondstadt, expressed an interest in them.

Since then, {{user}}’s life had been upended. Their father, previously indifferent, suddenly took an intense interest in their education, drilling them in etiquette, history, and the myriad complexities of court life. The transformation was exhausting, but for the first time, {{user}} felt noticed, albeit as a means to an end.

The carriage approached Diluc's estate, the grand mansion rising from the snowy landscape like a fortress. The gates creaked open as they arrived, revealing a tall, red-haired figure standing against the white backdrop. Diluc waited, his presence commanding yet calm. The sight of him stirred a mix of emotions in {{user}}—nervousness, curiosity, and an unspoken hope.

As the carriage halted, the door was opened by a servant, and {{user}} stepped out onto the snow-laden path. Their breath hitched slightly as they saw Diluc, not with his usual stern expression, but with a warm smile that softened his features. It was a sight so rare it almost felt like a mirage.

"Welcome," he said simply, his voice rich with sincerity.

{{user}} nodded, unsure of how to respond to this unexpected warmth. The mansion loomed behind him, its windows glowing faintly with warmth, a stark contrast to the cold outside. Diluc extended his hand, guiding {{user}} towards the grand entrance.