Archive of Our Own

“‘Luc?” Kaeya slowly opened the door to Diluc’s bedroom. He saw Diluc sitting at his vanity table brushing out his hair. 

“Kaeya, I told you about knocking! I could be changing!” Diluc lectured. He placed the hairbrush down and turned to face his brother.

Ignoring Diluc’s scolding, Kaeya walked over to him and dropped a book in his lap. The cover shows two people dancing. They were wearing masks, but it was easy to tell that it was a man and a woman. The man was wearing a fine tailored suit with a white mask sitting upon his face. The woman had a beautiful white ball gown with golden accents. The cover of the book says: Masquerade: The guide to elegance.

“Is this real? This… ‘masquerade?’” Kaeya asked with a surprised look. Diluc sighed and scratched the back of his head. 

“Yea. It’s a thing. Father attended one before. He didn’t know anything about it, so he bought a book for dummies.”

“Have you gone to one?”

Diluc shrugged. “I don’t remember it. I was young and didn’t have many people to dance with. It’s nothing exciting. Truly.” 

“Of course a noble wouldn’t be fascinated by this. ‘Luc, this is an event that only the wealthy could attend! I didn’t even know these existed! I wish I was told about this earlier!”

“You never attended a ball?”

Kaeya groaned. “I wasn’t born a noble! Why isn’t Father taking us to one?”

“They have them one every few years, but Father usually goes alone.  Not to mention they’re filled with old pretentious nobles. The men would walk around in scowls and the women reeked of perfume. Yuck. Not to mention Father had to teach me how to dance. My instructor was a monster from hell.”

“Hold up,” Kaeya lifted a finger. “You dance? Since when?

“Since always. Father made me take them. Since I’m a Ragnvindr, Father thought it was important that I knew how.”

Kaeya’s shoulders drop. “He never taught me.”

Crepus never really forced Kaeya to do anything. Sure he treated him well, but he always seemed to push Diluc harder than he pushed Kaeya. Almost as if he had higher expectations. 

Probably because Diluc was his actual son-

“You were hardly in the picture when I stopped.” Diluc placed a hand on his head. “You were still a small and frail child. Father doesn’t like to add too much strain to it.”

“Well, I’m getting better. I want to learn something!” Kaeya pouted. 

“Kae… are you sure?”

“Positive. I want to learn how to dance like these people. Maybe I’ll feel fancy when I do it.”

Diluc let out a defeated sigh. “I’ll ask Father to hire someone to teach you.”

Excited, Kaeya pulled Diluc in for a hug. Diluc let out a small noise as he nearly fell out of his seat. He wasn’t mad; however, Kaeya hardly ever displays affection by hugging. It was a pleasant surprise, so Diluc gave a small laugh.

“Alright, Alright! I didn’t think you would be so excited over this!”

Kaeya quickly released him. “Sorry.”

The redhead was quick to cross his arms. “I don’t forgive you.”

“Wha?”

“Not until you help me brush my hair,” Diluc added in a teasing tone. “Since you decided to oh so rudely walk into my room.”

Kaeya let out a sigh of relief. Of course, Diluc was kidding. He wasn’t actually mad at him. He grabbed the hairbrush on the table and got to work. He was a bit happy to have moments like these with Diluc. Even after the two of them joined the knights of Favonius. Kaeya was worried that he would have to start treating Diluc as a captain more than his brother, but Diluc never lost the feeling of warmth he had for Kaeya. It was a nice feeling. 

Yea… this is nice. 

***

“You want to pick up dancing?” Crepus asked, placing his fork down on the dinner table. Diluc nodded.

“He found that old book you had about masquerades. He’s taken an interest in them.” 

“People wear fancy masks and outfits and dance the night away? It sounds like fun.” Kaeya replied. “Kinda upset I never got to see one.”

Crepus responded in the same way Diluc did when Kaeya brought it up. “Masquerades- or balls, in general, are indeed beautiful, and the wine was to die for, but all the nobles there were insufferable. I remember being berated for the way Diluc spoke.”

Diluc looked down at his plate. “Sorry.”

A laugh. “It wasn’t your fault, boy. You were only six! Why on earth would you need to speak all formally?”

“But Father, doth thou no shame in teaching the young lord in the language spoken by the finest of men?” Diluc jokes, earning a snicker from Kaeya. Crepus held a hand over his mouth to prevent himself from laughing at his son’s silliness. 

“I can't take you goofballs anywhere.” He smiles fondly. “If Kaeya wishes to learn, I suppose I can arrange an instructor to teach you. It might prove useful. I’m sure the knights of Favonius occasionally attend formal events.”

“Thank you, Father.” Kaeya smiled at the man.

“Anytime, son.”

It took a while for Kaeya to get used to his new schedule. He would wake up early and head to the knights’ headquarters with Diluc. The two of them talked about moving out soon to live close by, but this is what they have to work with for now.

They would then spend most of their day working on their duties. Since Diluc was the cavalry captain, he would have to attend meetings or spend time in his office writing papers. The idea of a child sitting in their own office was amusing to Kaeya. Who would have thought they would give a sixteen-year-old so much space?

Kaeya is usually the first one to finish his duties for the day and would walk home without Diluc. He used to sit in Diluc’s office and wait for him to finish so they could go home together, but now Kaeya has to be home at a certain time for lessons with his dance instructor. A shame, truly.

“Ouch! That’s the fifth time you stepped on my foot!” The woman barked. Kaeya felt a bit bad for messing up. He thought this would be easy.

“I apologize.”

Not wanting to go off on the teen, the woman pinched the bridge of her nose. 

“It’s alright. You are new to this. You are to memorize these steps by Wednesday.” 

“Yes, Ma’am.”

Once the woman bid him goodnight, she swiftly left the room and manor. Kaeya sat on the ground and pulled out a book his instructor gave him. 

“What the hell are these steps? This is too much work for some damn steps.”

“What's too much?” A voice called out from behind him. Kaeya turned his head around to see Diluc standing behind him.

“Oh, I didn’t see you come in.”

“You were too focused to notice. How was practice?”

“Shitty.”

Diluc chuckled slightly. “What went wrong? I assume you would be killing it.”

“The only thing I'm killing is my poor teacher’s feet.”

Diluc sat next to him. “You’ll get it. I believe in you.”

Kaeya let out a sigh and rested his head on his shoulder. His eyes never left the book in his hands. “Thanks, ‘Luc.”

A moment passed and Diluc finally spoke up.

“So, ah… Father was thinking and…”

“And what?”

“You know how he has dinner meetings with clients? He’s invited to a party hosted by one of his clients. Usually, he goes by himself, but seeing how excited you were the other day about masquerades, he decided to drag us along. Of course, it’s not a masquerade, but it’s similar to such things. Do you know that one fairytale about a girl who dressed up to go to a ball? It’s kind of like that.”

Diluc’s tone sounded unenthusiastic, but he smiled upon seeing Kaeya’s face light up.

“Really?” Kaeya sat up and turned to face the redhead. 

“Only if you want to. I’m warning you, they're not that exciting.”

“They look so fancy! I’m sure we can have fun!”

Diluc let out a sigh. “Alright. Be careful. You’re going to meet with people who are… not the nicest people. A lot of them come from outside Mondstadt, so they might have different views from us.”

“Like what?” 

Diluc thought for a moment. “The way we celebrate freedom, our lack of a god, the fact our Father adopted you, you’re-uhm… origins.” He wouldn’t meet his brother’s eyes. Kaeya simply laughed it off and waved his hand. 

“No big deal. I’m grown. I can handle myself.”

“You’re fifteen.”

Kaeya sticks his tongue out. “Fifteen and I can still pull more women and men than you.”

“At least I can dance without mutilating someone’s toes.” Diluc quips. 

Kaeya stood up and held his hand out. “Alright then, young master. Time for me to show you what I have learned!”

Diluc scoffed. “And is this how you’re going to ask a lady how to dance?”

Kaeya recoils. “Right. My bad.” He bows slightly and holds out his hand towards the pyro user. “May I have this dance, fair maiden?”

Feeling silly, Diluc got up and did a small curtsey. It was sloppy which made it even funnier.

“Graciously’ m’lord,” Diluc responded in a soft feminine voice. The two of them stared at each other before breaking out in laughter. Kaeya held his sides from laughing too hard while Diluc leaned against a wall to regain his composure. 

“Was the girly voice necessary?” Kaeya asked in between laughs. 

“Ahaha! That's what they sound like! All that’s missing is the perfume that makes you smell like a grandmother!” The older man replied.

“Heh, should we get you a dress too?”

“Only if I have one of those fans that go with it!”

After laughing their hearts out. Diluc walked over to the record player and proceeded to play the music the dance instructor had for Kaeya. He then walked back over to Kaeya and gave him a small nod. 

“Take the lead. Don’t be shy.” He added.

Kaeya hesitantly slipped his arm around Diluc’s waist. He used the other hand to take hold of his hand. He looked up to see Diluc frowning in slight disapproval. Before he could ask what’s wrong, Diluc beat him to it. 

“Your hand is too low. Keep it higher up. This isn’t a slow dance.”

Yikes. Diluc is starting to sound like his dance instructor. Kaeya took a deep breath and fixed his position. 

“Is this good?”

Diluc tightened his grip on Kaeya’s hand in reassurance. His free hand went to Kaeya’s shoulder. “Yep. You’re going great.”

The dance wasn’t supposed to be as slow, but for Kaeya’s sake, Diluc kept at his pace to avoid scaring him off. It was… amateurish, but it wasn’t terrible for Kaeya.

“Kaeya, eyes on me.” The redhead instructed. “You’re paying too much attention to your feet.”

Kaeya spun him around. “I don’t want to hurt you.”

A few more steps. “You won’t hurt m- ouch!”

Kaeya released Diluc and took a few steps back. “I’m sorry.”

Diluc sucked in his breath. “It’s alright, Kae. You did alright.”

Kaeya pouted. “You don’t have to lie.”

An awkward laugh. “You’ll get it. The party isn’t happening for another two months.”

“Two months?!” Kaeya nearly yelled. He looked down at his feet. “I’m going to embarrass Father and the Ragnvindr’s name.”

Diluc placed his hand on the top of Kaeya’s head. “You’re not going to embarrass us. Father is proud to call you his son.”

“Really?”

“Mhm! If anyone tries to say something negative about you, I’ll fight them!” Diluc laughed.

“Don’t fight someone for my honor. It’s hardly worth saving.” 

“It’s worth it. You’re worth it.”

Oh. Kaeya could feel his brain short-circuiting. Does Crepus and Diluc care about him that much? Enough to bring him to an event that he’s never participated in before?

“ Gege… ”

“It’s getting late. We should get ready for bed. Barbatos knows how much you need your sleep between your duties as a knight and your dance classes.”

“I understand,” Kaeya responded. Diluc flashed him a warm smile. 

“I’ll be going then. Good night, Kaeya.”

“Goodnight.”

***

“What ‘cha looking at?” Jean asked Kaeya one day. The two of them were taking a break from training. She didn’t give Kaeya time to respond. She simply plucked the book out of the man’s hands before looking over the cover. 

Masquerade: The guide to elegance? What on earth would Kaeya have something like this in his possession?

“Kaeya, what is this for?”

“Ah, my father wants to take me and Dil- I mean, Sir Diluc to a ball. Something with my father meeting clients for the wine industry. He hopes they can help him expand.”

“Is it a masquerade?”

“No, but it should be similar, right?”

Jean facepalmed. She carried the same look Diluc did when Kaeya says something stupid regarding noble affairs. 

“Similar, but you shouldn’t heavily rely on this book if it’s not a masquerade!”

Kaeya pouted. “Wearing masks and hiding your identity sounds like a good idea.”

“You… want to wear a mask and hide your identity?” Jean raised an eyebrow. 

Kaeya hugged himself. “Dilu- Sir Diluc mentioned all the things I might face when speaking to other people. Apparently, a lot of them don’t fancy the idea of my father adopting me into the Ragnvindr’s manor. I’m not related to them by blood and I don’t have a drop of noble blood in me, so I’m not good for them socially. I don’t know why they want me to go. I just wish I can wear a mask and not be Kaeya, y’know?” He looked up at Jean. Jean had an unreadable expression on her face. Was it guilt, shock, or pity?

“I had no idea you felt that way.” She trailed off. Kaeya sighed. 

“It’s alright. I didn’t expect you two. It’s just… odd that you and Diluc come from the same background. Both were born into clans that have a rich history. Not to mention being vision bearers! It just makes me feel… small. I feel like I have to work 3 times as hard to even be seen with Diluc.” Kaeya looked up at the sky. “He’s perfect in every way. He’s a captain in the knights of Favonius, he’s brilliant, he knows how to swing his blade as if it’s another extension of him, he’s pretty good looking, and he’s a vision bearer. Meanwhile his ‘brother,’ if you want to call me that… is just some kid they found in the rain.”

“Have you told Master Crepus any of this? Or your brother?”

“No way. It was already hard for them to take care of me as a child. Not to mention all the effort they put in into making me feel like family. I don’t want them to think I’m ungrateful.

“Kaeya…”

Kaeya placed the book down and proceeded to stretch. “Anyways, I can’t sit here and drown in my insecurities! All I can do for now is work hard to consider myself worthy of the name! I just need to learn how to waltz and behave around Father’s clients.”

“I see…” Jean took a deep breath. “If there is anything you’d like to talk about, I’m right here.”

Kaeya gave her a small smile. “Thanks, Jean.”

***

“No no no! You start with the other foot! Also, make sure to keep your eyes on your partner!” The teacher nags. Kaeya leaned against the wall with a sigh.

“This isn’t working. I'm cursed with two left feet.” He ran his fingers through his hair. “Maybe I should just skip the event. Save my family the trouble.”

“Nonsense!” His teacher argued. “You were taken in by Master Crepus himself. He takes great pride in raising you as a son. You are a Ragnvinder through and through. You will go accompany him and the young master to the event.”

“It’s in… two weeks. It’s not going to happen.”

“What’s not going to happen?” A voice rang from the doorway. Standing there is none other than Diluc. Kaeya averts his gaze. 

“This event. I’m not doing too well. I’m falling behind in studying and dancing. I’m second-guessing this.”

Diluc walked over to him and placed his hand on his shoulder. “Are you alright? You've been growing tenser and tenser as the date draws near. If you want, I can spare some time in the evening to assist you.”

Kaeya bit his lip. “I don’t want to be an inconvenience.”

“Kae, you would never be an inconvenience to me. If it’s for you, I always have time.”

“...You mean it?”

A chuckle. “Yea. I got your back, bro.” Diluc looked over at the instructor. “Good work today. I can take care of the rest from here.”

The woman simply bowed and left the room. Once she’s out of sight, Diluc lets out a small laugh. 

“Does she make you uncomfortable?”

“What do you mean?” Kaeya tilted his head. 

“She’s quite strict and she has a stern look on her face. Not to mention she’s twice your age. It must be hard to relax around her.” Diluc made his way to the record player to start the song from the beginning. “I’m no woman, but perhaps you would be less tense around me?”

Kaeya was at a loss for words. “I… uh…”

Diluc moved closer and took his hand. “C’mon. One dance.”

“I stepped on your feet last time.” Kaeya blurts. “I’m terrible. Unteachable actually-”

“Kaeya,” Diluc said sternly. “Just trust me, okay?”

With much reluctance, Kaeya tightened his grip on Diluc’s hand.

Alright, one hand goes here, the other in hand… The rhythm is easy to follow. Just watch the steps. Left… right… ah- ‘Luc is taller than me. His build is different from Teach. Am I supposed to pretend he's a woman? Teach told me to pretend like I’m holding the most fragile thing ever. Wait- was she referring to women as fragile? I should introduce her to Jean. Ah… which foot do I use again?

“Kae,” Diluc called his name, snapping Kaeya from his thoughts. He realized he stopped moving. His gaze was at his feet again. How embarrassing.

“Oh, ah- my apologies. I was lost in thought.” The younger man responded.

“Is something on your mind?” Diluc asked calmly. Kaeya shook his head. 

“No, just… struggling.”

“Struggling how?”

“I don’t understand why I’m messing up so bad. I know the steps. I practice all the time in my room. It’s just when I have an audience or… a dance partner, I just freeze up.”

Dilic simply laughed. “You’re trying too hard. You need to relax.”

“I can’t relax.”

“Kaeya, look at me.”

Kaeya looked up at Diluc. Diluc simply gave him a reassuring smile.

“Eyes on me, okay? Trust me.”

Right, it was just the two of them. Kaeya is used to being alone with him. He has been with Kaeya since the moment they met. There is almost nothing Kaeya could do to break the trust Diluc has in him. Almost. 

Kaeya didn’t know if it was his worries drifting away, or if it was from Diluc’s vision, but the room felt a bit warmer. Keeping his eyes on the redhead, Kaeya slowly began moving.

The mood suddenly shifted. Kaeya was growing less hesitant as time progressed. There was nothing but the sound of the record player and his brother whispering “One, two, three, one, two, three…”

Diluc went quiet after hearing a relaxed sigh come from Kaeya.

“This... “ Kaeya started. “This is kind of fun.”

“I told you. It was all in your head.” Diluc pointed out.

Kaeya spun him around before pulling him back in. “Do you often play as ‘the woman?’”

“What’s with the emphasis on ‘woman?’”

Kaeya picked up the pace to follow the rhythm. He spun around the room with Diluc matching his speed. He thought to himself before speaking again. 

“Who says this dance has to be with a man and a woman?”

Diluc slightly shrugged. “It’s the way the nobles have it. I think this dance can be with anyone. Men, women, anyone in between, it shouldn’t matter. Not to mention the dance itself.”

“Oh? Please go on.”

“The dance itself should bring people closer. Whether it’s familial, romantic, or friendly… I don’t know. I feel like balls like the ones father goes to are too… stuffy. Too many rules and requirements. They could stand to loosen up.”

Kaeya released Diluc for a second and moved his hands to his waist to lift him in the air. Diluc let out a surprised yelp. 

“Kae! This isn’t part of the-”

“You said people could stand to ‘loosen up.’ Did you not?” Kaeya snickered as he spun around the room with Diluc in the air. Not knowing where to put his hands, he rested them on Kaeya’s shoulders. After a few more seconds, Diluc felt his feet on the ground once more. 

“A warning would be nice next time.” He pouted. His face eventually relaxed upon seeing Kaeya’s face beaming in excitement. Is he really having this much fun?

Not wanting to dampen Kaeya’s mood, Diluc grabbed his hand once more. 

“Continue?” He asked. Instead of Kaeya responding, he just pulls Diluc along as they dance. It was a tad more wild. Diluc was certain he didn’t learn half of the moves from the teacher. He silently hopes he doesn’t pull these stunts at the party.

“Calm down. I just want to have a bit of fun.” Kaeya answered his silent question. Diluc relaxed upon hearing that. That’s good.

After a few more minutes, the song ended. Kaeya pulled away. He stood there for a moment to process what just happened. 

“Holy shit… I did it! ‘Luc, I did it! I can waltz!”

Diluc adjusted his gloves. “You did. Congratulations. Although you added a few moves, I can tell you know the basics.”

“Why, yes. It seems as if Kaeya got the hang of dancing.” Crepus called out, alerting the two boys.

“F-Father? How long were you there?” Kaeya squeaked.

“I came in the middle of you two dancing. It was quite the display. Makes me wonder what I did to be blessed with talented sons.” He wiped an imaginary tear. “It was only yesterday when I walked in on Diluc stepping all over little Jean’s feet.”

Kaeya turned to Diluc. “You and Jean used to dance together?”

Diluc groaned. “I was six! Being subjected to learning that young was hell.”

Crepus cackled. “You’re fine. Plus you got to use the experience to teach Kaeya. Speaking of which, Do you feel like you’re ready to accompany us to the event, Kaeya?”

“Ah, Yes sir!”

***

“I changed my mind. This was a mistake.”

“C’mon! You look great!”

Kaeya was dragged into the ballroom with Diluc holding his hand. Upon entry, he released his hand. He then adjusted Kaeya’s vest before anyone saw them.

“How do you feel?”

“Terrified. I feel out of place.”

“You deserve to be here as much as anyone else.” Diluc shot him a stern look.

“You said it yourself. I’m not related to you by blood. Some people might frown upon me not being born into… this…” He gestures to the room. 

“Kae, none of that matters. You’re family. You’re one of us and that will never change. Not come on. There is a place where we can taste wine~!”

“You hate wine.”

“You love it.”

“I’m underaged.”

Diluc gave him a sly grin. “And pray tell, when has that stopped you, Kae?”

“...Good point. Let’s go.”

The two of them walked over to the table where all the imported drinks were located. Diluc took the liberty of swiping a glass from the table and walking back over to Kaeya to hand it to him. “Here ya go. For confidence.”

Kaeya laughed slightly. “This is only a small sample. I’m not going to be affected by this!”

“That’s the goal, bro. Father would kill me if he found out.” 

Kaeya brought the glass to his lips and slowly downed the small portion of wine. He tapped his chin and hummed to himself. 

“Oh, I believe I tried this one before. The grapes were grown in Sumeru. Some people tried to see if growing grapes there would affect the taste whatsoever. It’s not terrible, but it could have aged longer.”

Diluc shook his head. “I don’t know how you got that out of a few sips. It all tastes like wine to me. You are indeed Father’s son.”

The two of them exchanged a few laughs before they heard a cough from behind Kaeya.

“Excuse me, but I couldn’t help but overhear you talk about your... expertise in wine.” A voice called from behind. Kaeya quickly turned around and stiffened. It was an older woman. Possibly older than Crepus himself. According to the notes Kaeya read, he did his best to carry out a conversation.

“Yes, Ma’am. I couldn’t help but have an interest in wine-tasting.”

Diluc was right. The smell of perfume is suffocating. Kaeya managed to keep up a front. 

The woman closed the fan in her hands. “My, but you look too young to be drinking. How old are you?”

Diluc butted in. “Don’t worry, he’s under my supervision. He’s hardly younger than I am.”

“Well, if it isn’t Diluc Ragnvindr, son of Master Crepus. I haven’t seen you since you were just a small little thing. You’ve grown into a fine young man.”

Diluc laughed politely. “Thank you, but I still have room to grow.”

“Now don’t be so modest! If Crepus was here, he’d be gloating about how great of a son he has!”

“Haha… that’s Father for you.”

The woman turned her attention to Kaeya. “And who is this... friend of yours?”

Kaeya fought the urge to look away. He must remain cool, calm, and collected.

“This is Kaeya. My adopted brother. He’s been living in the manor for almost eight years. It’s his first time in events like these.”

“Charmed,” Kaeya said smoothly. Diluc gave him a soft smile, silently telling him that he’s doing well.

“I didn’t know Master Crepus adopted! I must be out of touch. Still, you don’t look like you’re from Mondstadt.”

“‘Tis the beauty of this region. Is it not? A bunch of travelers all over the world can find a place to reside in Mondstadt.” The younger boy answered, clearly dodging the question she was about to ask.

“I see. Well, you are indeed beautiful. It would be no surprise that people are drawn to your… exotic presence.”

Kaeya blinked in disbelief. “Come again?”

Diluc quickly interrupted. “Would you look at the time! We have to locate our Father. He’s probably worried sick about us. It was a pleasure chatting with you, Ma’am.”

“The pleasure’s all mine. Oh! Before I forget…”  The woman fanned herself. “You do need to start considering your future, Diluc. If you wish, I shall introduce you to my granddaughter. She’s quite a beauty, that one.”

A small laugh. “I’ll keep my eye on her. Farewell.”

Once they found a less dense area, Diluc slowed his walking and exhaled sharply. “That was… a lot.”

Kaeya handed his empty glass to a servant as the two of them made their way to a large balcony outside. “Yea. She was. Do you know her? She seemed to know you very well.”

Diluc gave him a blank stare. “No. I don’t remember her at all.”

“Wha? You looked like you knew her!”

Diluc crossed his arms. “I have met a lot of people since birth. A lot of older nobles seem to remember me from over ten years ago, and then ask if I remember them. I eventually learned to pretend.”

Kaeya looked down. “I see.”

“What about you? You lost your cool for a moment.”

Kaeya placed his hands on his hips. “It’s been a while since I’ve been described in such a way. It threw me off. Not to mention she was insinuating that was the reason for my adoption. It was all in bad taste. Truly.”

“Oh. I see. I’m sorry you had to experience that.”

Kaeya waved it off. “No sweat. Anyways, are you planning to speak to this granddaughter?”

Diluc groaned. “She obviously just sees me as a ticket to wealth. That’s why she was so quick to try to flatter me. I bet the girl wouldn’t be interested in me.”

“My, you’re kind of like a prince in a way.”

Diluc lightly slapped his arm. “No way!”

Kaeya giggles. “It’s true! You’re a handsome and wealthy young man. You’re a walking ticket to a life of comfort.”

“Exactly why it sucks. A lot of people here are nice to me solely for that reason. Hell, I’m only sixteen. Why am I getting questions about marriage already?”

“Marry yourself then. Watch as everyone have a heart attack!”

“I friggin 'might!” Diluc leaned against the deck railings. “I wish I could be someone else sometimes.”

“Like- someone other than Diluc, the cavalry captain of Mondstadt? The pyro vision holder?”

Diluc looked down. “Would you be mad if my answer was yes?”

Kaeya shook his head. “No, Not at all. There are a lot of things I would have done differently in life.”

Diluc smiled at the other boy. “Thanks, Kae. I can always trust you to listen to me. It’s just been something I’ve been hiding for a while.”

Kaeya looked up at the sky. “Something… you’ve been hiding…”

Diluc put his hand over Kaeya’s. “Are you alright, Kae?”

“Actually. There is something I’ve been meaning to te-”

SLAM!

Both boys turned their heads to see a woman slam the door to the inside shut. Her makeup was running and her dress was soaking wet. It seems she didn’t notice the two of them, so she ended up sitting on the ground with her back to the door. 

“U-Uhm… are you alright?” Diluc asked the young girl. She wiped her tears to look at the two men. 

“Great. More people are here to laugh at me. Just my luck.” She stood up to brush her gown out. “No. I’m not alright. Some mean girls poured their water on me. It was humiliating!”

Both the brothers looked at each other before back at her.

“Do you need help cleaning up?” Diluc asked gently. “I can help you dry your clothes.”

Her face twisted into a scowl. “What you are suggesting, you little pervert!”

Diluc raised his hands in defense. “N-No! I mean I wield a pyro vision!” He supposed a small flame in the palm of his hand. “Just use the heat to dry. Ah, don't go too close, though. You will set yourself on fire.”

The girl sniffled. “You’d do that for me?”

“Of course. I’m here to help others.” He looked over at Kaeya. “Sorry, Kae. I’m going to be here for a minute. You’re free to walk around by yourself though.” He smiled apologetically. Kaeya gave him an understanding nod.

“I’ll be inside,” Kaeya replied as he made his way into the building, leaving DIluc behind with some stranger.

***

Being alone was… nerve-racking. Kaeya is unaware of his surroundings and he couldn’t manage to locate Crepus anywhere. Giving up, Kaeya leaned against the wall to watch people dance away on the ballroom floor. The ambiance was lovely. They hired lived performers to play for the party, and the fashion was amazing. He mostly admired all the dresses the women wore. It must’ve cost a fortune for the material used. Not to forget all the chatter. Everyone is quite eloquent with the way they speak and act. It truly was fascinating. 

“What’s a wallflower like yourself doing here?”

Kaeya looked to his side to see a girl standing there. She was around his age. What a relief. If he had to talk to any more older folk, he might have fainted. The girl was fidgeting as Kaeya stood there silently. Was she… blushing?

Ah, another woman fell for his charm. As expected. Doesn’t matter. Kaeya needed to talk to anyone to avoid feeling out of place.

“Ah, It’s my first time in a place like this. It’s quite hard to get used to all of… this.” He answered honestly. “My brother left me alone, and I don’t know where my father ran off to, so it’s just me right now.”

“Ah, well events like these can be a bit stressful. I go to balls like these all the time, but it’s still too much for me. Especially when your family wants to marry you off for power. In this day and age? C’mon!”

Kaeya chuckled. “Yea. My brother just complained about being seen as a walking meal ticket.”

“What about you? Don’t you have people falling at your feet for the same thing?”

Kaeya shook his head. “Not as hard. I’m adopted. I’m not placed at the same social level as him. That doesn’t mean I still don’t get admirers. I may lack a vision and power, but I still have my good looks.”

“Who is your brother? Surely I must’ve heard of him.”

“Diluc Ragnvindr. Son of Crepus Ragnvindr.”

“Ragnvindr? The wine tycoon? That must mean you’re…”

“Kaeya. Charmed to meet your acquaintance.”

She laughed slightly. “You’re prettier than how people describe you. Say, care to join me in the next dance? My grandma would kill me if she knew I was standing around.

Kaeya accepted her offer and led her to the dancefloor once a new song kicked in. It’s just like he was taught. Left… right… left... 

“Kaeya, look at me. Eyes on me, okay? Trust me.”

Kaeya looked up. He just remembered what Diluc told him when they were practicing together. Right. He can’t afford to get lost in his head again. Not anymore.

It was a bit challenging. Dancing with a stranger is a bit hard. There is a bit of pressure on him since they don’t know each other. Her build is nothing like his teacher or Diluc’s. She was shorter than him, so Kaeya tried not to take wide steps. After a while, Kaeya got a bit more comfortable.

“You know, my grandmother has been wanting me to have a dance with your brother. She was very adamant about trying to set us up.” The girl started. Kaeya frowned slightly. 

“I hope I’m not being used right now. That would hurt my feelings.”

“Oh no! He’s not my type. I just think it’s funny how I got to speak with you instead. I’m actually quite grateful for this outcome.”

Kaeya spun her around. “I see. Your family would be quite pissed to know that you’re talking with me.”

“What they don’t know wouldn’t kill them.”

Kaeya looked over her shoulder to see Crepus standing in the back talking to a few clients. Crepus managed to look back at him and smiled softly. He gave him a thumbs up before turning to speak to the other adults once more. 

“Right. Sometimes there are things we have to hide.” He responded to the girl. 

“Why? What’s your secret? There has to be more to you than the ‘adopted child.’”

Kaeya chuckled. “My secret? I’m a spy.”

The girl gave him an unamused look. “...You have a weird sense of humor.”

Kaeya smiled as he closed his eyes for a moment. “I get that a lot.”

The rest of the dance went off without a hitch. After the dance ended, Kaeya saw a familiar woman push through the crowd and grab the girl’s arm.

“Young lady, what on earth were you thinking?”

“Grandmother? I thought you were taking a breather outside!”

It didn’t take long for Kaeya to realize that it was the same old woman from before. 

“You do need to start considering your future, Diluc. If you wish, I shall introduce you to my granddaughter. She’s quite a beauty, that one.”

Oh. This was the granddaughter she was referring to. Kaeya tried to keep the pleasantries. 

“Nice to see you again, Ma’am.”

The woman sent Kaeya a glare before looking back at the girl. 

“I was looking all over for you! If you were going to fool around with men, at least do so with someone who would be beneficial to your family.”

Okay. That hurt. Hurts to not be recognized as one of Crepus’s sons. Most people here probably hold Diluc to a higher standard than him. He has the blood, status as a cavalry captain, and a vision. Kaeya lacks one of his own. How embarrassing.

The woman took the girl by the arm and dragged her off. A small sigh escapes Kaeya.

He wants to go home now. 

He was quick to leave the dance floor. This night is a bust. He got his hopes up the second he saw the stupid book. Upon leaving, he felt someone hug his arm.”

“Kae! I saw you out there! You killed it!”

Kaeya relaxed upon contact. “Hey, ‘Luc.”

Diluc gave him a toothy grin. “I knew you could do it. I’m so proud.” He patted Kaeya’s head.

“Gross! You sound like Father!” Kaeya laughed.

“Damn, you’re right. Whoops.” Diluc chuckled. “Anyways, who was that girl just now? The one you were with?”

“Why? Are you interested? Don’t worry, she’s not my type.”

Diluc stuck his tongue out. “Absolutely not. I have better things to pursue than romance. Answer the question.”

“Just a friend I made until her granny interrupted our fun. Threw a few insults my way, but it’s whatever.”

Diluc frowned. “Kae…”

“Um…” Kaeya felt himself grow quiet. Why is it always with Diluc when he lets himself grow vulnerable? “Can we go home? I’m not cut out for this stuff.”

Surprisingly, Diluc didn’t argue or question why. He just nodded and took Kaeya’s hand, dragging him to where their father is. He was still talking to a few clients about something. Not as if it matters to Diluc as of now. He lightly tapped Crepus’s shoulder. “Father?”

Crepus turned around to see his two boys standing there. “There you two are. Are you two enjoying yourselves?”

Diluc nodded. “Yes, but ah… Kaeya isn’t feeling well. Can we go home?”

Their father was quick to look over Kaeya. He knew right away that his son wasn't sick; however, he could tell that the boy was feeling overwhelmed. He hummed in affirmation. 

“Very well.” He turned to the group of men. “I have to get going. My sons are getting quite tired.”

One of the men looked over at Kaeya. “Well, would you look at that? You do have an adoptive kid.”

Crepus gave him a small smile. “I do. I’m proud to call him my son.”

“Where did you get him?” another man questioned. Crepus frowned slightly. 

“That’s… not important.”

Not wanting to explain his kid’s entire life story, Crepus abruptly ended the conversation and left with his kids. Kaeya sighed in relief. He reminded himself not to go to stuffy parties like those ever again, and that they were only good in stories. Well, at least he got to try it out. 

Upon walking out of the building, Crepus let out an annoyed sigh.

“Damn rich people. Always sticking their noses where they don’t belong.” He mumbled to himself.

“Dad, you are rich.” Diluc reminded him.

“I suppose I'm part of the problem too then.” He laughed slightly as he took hold of both of his boys’ hands, ignoring the both of them complaining about being too old to be holding their father’s hands. 

It was late when they got back. Crepus excused himself to retire to his room for the night. Diluc had a conflicted look on his face as he bid Kaeya good night. Soon, Kaeya was left alone in the middle of the manor. He finally had time to himself. Much needed time. He made his way to his room to rest for the night.

He finished showering and getting dressed in his loungewear. Upon leaving his bathroom, he noticed a note on his bed. Someone must’ve dropped it here while he was bathing. He carefully picked up the letter and opened it. It was rushed. Painfully rushed. It was also written in the handwriting he’s all too familiar with. 

“Meet me in the vineyard.”

This has Diluc written all over it. Still, Kaeya is curious to see what the guy had planned for him. Wasting no time, Kaeya slipped some shoes on and grabbed a light jacket, and headed out of his room. The manor was dark and quiet. All the maids must have retired for the night. Makes sense, the family came back late at night. By the time Kaeya got out of his suit, everyone had already left. Makes it easier. No one bothered to check up on him while making his way outside. 

The vineyard was massive. Kaeya is sure that Crepus owns more in other areas besides this one. It’s quite amazing how successful he is. He didn’t see Diluc anywhere. How annoying. He didn’t even bother to wait for him before further in the vineyard. Sighing in annoyance, Kaeya walked further into the vineyard. Once he hit a clearing, he found the person he was looking for.

“You’re still wearing your outfit from earlier this evening?” He placed his hand on his hip. “Now I feel like I’m underdressed.

It was then Kaeya noticed something. Diluc was wearing a mask. He felt a little silly for not noticing that right off the bat. Diluc simply hummed and made his way over to him. In his hands was a golden masquerade mask. Just big enough to cover his eyes.

“Here. Put this on. After all, masquerades were meant to conceal your identity, right?” Diluc grinned at him. 

“It’s so obvious that it’s you. No one else my age runs around with hair redder than the flames themselves.” Kaeya rolled his eyes. “Still, I like your mask. White suits you.”

“Want to switch?”

“Ah, no. The gold one is still my favorite. Still, what’s going on?”

While Kaeya was putting his mask on, Diluc started to explain. 

“Well… tonight… at that event. I felt like you didn’t have much fun. You looked like you were constantly trying to please everyone by not acting like yourself. It’s… unfair. Unfair that you had to take on a persona of someone else for people who were already judging you without you even speaking.”

“Ah, you think I was putting on a front?”

“You always do that around people. Still. I’m relieved that you get to act like your true self once in a while. Well, at least for me it’s easy to know how you truly feel. I hope… we can keep it that way.”

Kaeya laughed. “You’re easy to talk to, but enough with the sentiment. What are you trying to do here?”

“Oh, right. Since you didn’t have much fun tonight, I wanted to make it up for you.”

“With masks?”

Diluc facepalmed. “No, I… I wanted to give you a little masquerade party. I knew how much you liked them so… Here's a little version of it.”

Oh… Kaeya smiled at the stupid gesture. 

“You’re so fucking cheesy. You know that, right?”

The redhead pouted. “The hell is that supposed to mean? You know what? Hand the mask over.”

“But…” Kaeya continued. “I like it. This is very nice, thank you.”

“Anytime. I like doing nice- are you seriously crying right now?”

Kaeya removed his mask to wipe his eyes. “No, a bug flew into it.”

“Into both eyes?”

“Mhm.”

“And they caused you to start sniffling?”

“S-Shut up.”

Diluc stood there to watch Kaeya struggle to wipe away his tears. He didn’t think that the boy would get emotional over the rushed display.

“Sorry, I love it. I really do.” Kaeya sniffled. “It feels like… you really get me sometimes.”

Diluc walked over to him and placed a hand on his shoulder. “Of course, there are moments where I can never understand what you’re going through, but still… I want to continue being the one you can always lean on for support.”

“Augh! You’re going to make me cry harder. Stop talking for a second.”

Diluc shuts up. After a minute, Kaeya regained his composure and put the mask back on.

“Well, my mysterious masked companion, what is the plan now?” He jokes. Diluc took a step back and held out his hands. 

“May I have this dance?”

Kaeya snorted. “In the vineyard? With no music playing?”

“Also I want to take the lead for once. Getting tired of filling on for the… ‘woman.’” Diluc added, making air quotes as he spoke. 

“Ah, I never tried that before. I might step on your toes.”

“It’s fine!” Diluc pointed to the crescent moon in the sky. “That is our only audience anyways. No one will judge you.”

Kaeya stuck his tongue out. “Let’s not pretend Barbatos isn’t watching.”

“Eh, he wishes he could join the fun. So is that a yes to my offer?”

“Again, there is no music playing.” As Kaeya answered, Diluc began humming a tune as he extended a hand to the other boy. It was… quite stupid for him to do that. Really… really stupid. 

Still, Kaeya didn’t regret taking his hand.