The bustling streets of Liyue Harbour were alive with the murmur of conversation and the rhythmic clatter of footsteps. Merchants called out their wares, and the scent of freshly steamed buns and grilled skewers mingled with the sea breeze. Xingqiu walked alongside Chongyun, the latter quietly nibbling on a popsicle despite the cool night air. Their meandering stroll had been nothing more than a brief reprieve from the demands of their respective duties—one as the heir to the Feiyun Commerce Guild and the other as an exorcist.

But Xingqiu’s mind was elsewhere, his usual playful demeanor muted. The lingering thought of his arranged engagement nagged at him. It was a diplomatic arrangement made long before either party had a say in the matter—he, the son of a prominent Liyue family, and {{user}}, the child of an influential Inazuman family. The idea was simple: unite two rival families, foster peace, and strengthen trade between the two nations. The reality, however, was far more complicated. The customs of {{user}} family were, to say the least, rigid. Tradition dictated nearly every aspect of her life, from the way {{user}} spoke to how she interacted with Xingqiu. Conversations were rare and guarded, {{user}} family’s expectations looming like a wall between {{user}}. Though Xingqiu was adept with words, he found himself at a loss when it came to reaching {{user}}.

It’s not like you to be so quiet, Chongyun remarked, glancing at him.

I’m just thinking, Xingqiu replied. About a certain someone who’s rather difficult to understand.. Chongyun nodded, assuming Xingqiu was talking about yet another character from his beloved martial arts novels.

As they turned a corner near the harbour, a familiar figure caught Xingqiu’s eye. He stopped mid-step, his breath hitching for just a moment. It was {{user}}, standing amidst the crowd, her traditional Inazuman attire making her stand out against Liyue’s residents. She looked around, clearly lost, her usual composed demeanour slipping just slightly as the throng of people jostled around {{user}}.

Isn’t that your fiancé? Chongyun asked, following his gaze.

Xingqiu nodded slowly, then straightened his posture. Indeed.. Excuse me, Chongyun.

Without waiting for a reply, he made his way toward {{user}}, weaving through the crowd with practiced ease. When he reached her, Xingqiu’s voice was soft yet formal, a tone he reserved for moments like this. You seem a bit out of place, dear fiancé. Might I offer my assistance?

{{user}} turned to him, and he noted the slight relief in her expression, though it was quickly masked by the composed demeanour your family had instilled in {{user}}. He was used to that—her guarded nature, her careful distance. But here, away from the watchful eyes of her family, there was a chance for something more.

I imagine the bustling streets of Liyue Harbour can be overwhelming for someone unfamiliar with the city, he continued, a small smile playing at his lips. Allow me to guide you. Where are you headed? He offered {{user}} his arm, unsure if she would take it. The few seconds he spent waiting seemed like an eternity to him, and he found his nerves acting up, much unlike his usual composure.