Chapter Text
“A warmest welcome back, Master Diluc,” Ernest, Dawn Winery’s warehouse manager, greets by the steps on the entrance to the manor. Then comes Elzer, Chair of the Winery Guild, meeting him with a handshake and a polite “Sir.”
The other househelps soon hurry towards him, each respectfully nodding to their young Master. One of them, Hillie, approaches with a pitcher of iced lemon water and a full glass of it – a much appreciated gesture, given the unusual heat of the late morning. He gives his thanks to her and walks to the left side of the manor, soaking in the view: the fresh grapes bathing in the light, the waterfall not too far away, and the height of the white peaks of Dragonspine mountains behind it. Until four years ago he only imagined what could be on the other side of those mountains, and in that moment it was almost hard to believe that he had been there, as he had been all over Teyvat.
He turns to the company: “I’ll take my rest now.”
“Of course, Master. Your bedroom is all set.”
“Adelinde, Ernest, let’s talk after supper, yes?”
“Of course, Master.”
He finally enters his home, the interiors looking as if no time has passed. He made a mental note of extending praise to Adelinde and the others for how they have maintained the business and the manor. There’s still the familiar couple of books near Elzer’s desk; and on the right wing, the fireplace is lit and the blue chairs still face each other, lending a homey atmosphere, though bitterly reminding him of with whom he used to sit there with. Up in his bedroom, it also feels no different, save for the smell of fresh linen. He surrenders his tired body to the bed and closes his eyes.
Four years.