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“I’m surprised to see you drink alcohol at this function, Diluc.”
The redhead spun around to see his brother dressed in his dark blue suit and tie. Diluc wasn’t used to seeing Kaeya wearing such clothing, but then again, it was necessary considering the event.
“Just a small amount. It’s customary, is it not?”
The captain chuckled. “Don’t get too drunk now before your dance with Jean, hmm?”
It seemed like only yesterday since Diluc’s impulsive confession to Jean at Windrise, a confession which would not have happened without Kaeya’s intervention. The years since then led to chaos he struggled to handle and happiness he longed for since Crepus’ passing. Though he and Jean had differing views on the Knights of Favonius, he found they were still willing to accept him again as their own. When he grew comfortable around their presence again, Diluc would often stop by to spar with Jean and Eula, scout alongside Amber, study books on other nations with Lisa, research elements with Albedo, train Noelle, and babysit (“It’s called entertaining her, grumpy head!”) the infamous Klee. Each one reminded him of something he lost.
True strength.
Resilience.
Optimism.
Simplicity.
Curiosity.
Persistence.
Joy.
‘ You know, Diluc, I’m sure if you’d give the Knights a chance again, you’d find they may just surprise you. ’
Acceptance.
“Do you regret inviting all of them?”
The redhead glanced at Kaeya, the captain’s eyes pouring with memories. “Well-”
“Klee, not now!”
At the sound of Jean’s voice, the two men turned their attention to a panicked bride and a playful child with bombs in her hand. Eula and Amber hurried to assist Jean with the sudden situation, Albedo watched in horror as Noelle scurried off to prepare for the oncoming damage, and Lisa laughed. Elzer and Adelinde tried stifling their snickers, but failed as Jean tripped over her heels. Kaeya sighed and Diluc shook his head.
“I may have some regrets,” the groom said, bringing a hand to his face. “I should have limited Klee’s belongings for the wedding.”
“Perhaps you should have.” The captain laughed. “The night might end with fireworks.”
“Please don’t remind me.” Diluc stepped forward. “I suppose I should help her before Klee blows up the winery.”
“Sounds like a plan.” Kaeya smirked, leaning forward to peer behind Diluc. “I may just have to assist later. I have other plans at hand.”
Diluc raised his eyebrow. “What plans?”
“One that involves introducing myself to the lady of the Jade Chamber herself.”
“Don’t embarrass yourself in front of my business partner.”
Kaeya waved off the redhead before strolling off toward the platinum blonde sipping wine by the house. Diluc sighed, now amused, then ran off to join Jean in chasing Klee around the winery’s grounds. “Klee, put down the bombs please!”
Dad, do you see him now?
He hadn’t made it to Liyue’s famed business woman yet. The captain paused in his stride, turned around to stare at the scene in the distance as the wind blew his hair. Whispers of the past filled his ears. Warmth ruled his heart. He shut his eyes, enjoyed the peace of the breeze.
This is all you ever wanted for him, wasn’t it?
The elf child was now in the redhead’s arms, squirming around for an escape. Jean stood near them, playfully scolding Klee of her actions while Diluc chuckled. His smile glowed like it had all those years ago.
“I’m glad you found your happiness again, dear brother.”
Kaeya smiled softly as Crepus’ voice rung silently in the wind.
‘May happiness find you like the breeze finds the dandelions.’
“Trust me.” Tears began to stream down his face. “I have.”