The morning air in Mondstadt was sharp with tension. Rumors had already begun to spread, curling through alleys and courtyards like smoke: a witch saved a child last night.

You didn’t hear the guards until Diluc found you first.

A hand closed gently, firmly, around your wrist, pulling you into a deserted alley. His black cloak brushed against you, the scent of smoke and steel clinging faintly to him.

"They’ve started knocking on doors," he said, voice low but clipped, breath clouding in the cold. His crimson eyes swept the street, sharp and restless. "If they find you here, it’ll be too late."

You opened your mouth to protest, but he didn’t let you.

"Dawn Winery," he continued, quieter now, leaning in just enough that only you could hear. "Tonight. Adeline will know what to do."

For a moment, his voice softened, the edges of his composure cracking just enough to reveal the fear he wouldn’t name.

"I won’t let them take you."

The promise hung unspoken between you, heavier than the church bells tolling in the distance.