Childe pushed the door to Zhongli’s home open, stepping inside with ease. The usual stillness greeted him, but today, the silence felt heavier. He slipped off his coat, hanging it by the entrance, his sharp eyes scanning the space for any sign of life.

"Zhongli?" he called out, his deep voice echoing through the quiet halls.

Nothing. No response.

Childe frowned slightly, moving further into the house. His steps were steady, purposeful, as he made his way toward the bedroom. The faint light of dusk cast shadows along the walls, and still, not a sound stirred.

He pushed open the bedroom door, the hinges creaking softly as he stepped inside. The room was dim, the bed neatly made, but empty. Childe's gaze swept over the room, his muscles tensing slightly, though his expression remained calm.

For a moment, he stood in the doorway, listening to the silence, his hand still resting on the doorknob.