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"There's no way this is going to work."
Kaeya stood with his fist over his mouth, observing the man before him. He just barely refrained from doubling over with laughter.
"No… no you look good I swear."
Diluc bunched up his shirt in his fist and conjured up a fireball in his palm. Kaeya bursted out laughing despite feeling fire threatening to turn his eyebrows to ashes. His brother glared daggers into his soul.
"Kaeya."
"Okay okay," he calmed himself, "here, take another look."
He held up the small mirror once the redhead let go of him. Diluc examined himself with narrowed eyes. He hated to say it, but the crimson colour really complimented his skin tone. The dress hugged his waist nicely and had side slits that showed off his thighs, along with the black thigh garter wrapped around one of them. He had his hair done up in a high ponytail, with the bottom strands brushing the base of his neck. Kaeya gazed proudly upon his makeup job. It was simple but effective: a touch of eyeliner to make his eyelashes appear thicker and some lip gloss… for his dry ass lips.
Diluc huffed.
"I look ridiculous!"
"On the contrary, you look slightly less ugly. Slightly."
Diluc raised his flaming fist again. It didn't really faze Kaeya.
"No need to start a fuss, you're the one who asked me for spying techniques."
"I meant like a disguise, not cross dressing."
"You're one of the richest men in Teyvat. Unless you wanted to go in a hilichurl costume, this is the best I've got. And let's remember that I was generous enough to do this for free."
Diluc sighed. He knew it was stupid, he knew. He had no idea why he was going along with it. Furthermore, he had no idea when he had become dumb enough to trust Kaeya of all people. It isn't like he hasn't disguised himself to infiltrate places before, but this is an entire masquerade ball. It was guaranteed to be full of people from many different walks of life, including the Fatui. It's of utmost importance that he makes an appearance there.
But not as Diluc Ragnvindr. That could spell trouble.
Diluc had the misfortune of knowing Kaeya was a spy. He also noticed his… sense of style, if one could call it that. It didn't take long for him to put two and two together, then ask if he knew anything about fashion. Kaeya caught on surprisingly quickly and got to work almost instantly.
"Now, give me your best girl impression."
Diluc tensed. He hadn't expected to be caught in an exam.
"Um… uh…"
"Full offense, that sucked."
Diluc flinched at Rosaria's comment as she popped out of a bush.
"Where did you–"
"Oh yeah, I brought her too." Kaeya said.
"I'm only here for the wine… and maybe to see Diluc make a fool of himself."
Diluc was about to respond when a carriage rolled by. Two brown horses hauled it along until they reached their destination. He immediately noticed it was the person his informant had mentioned. The harbinger known as The Jester stepped out of the vehicle with a blue and white mask shielding his upper face. He was rumoured to be the very first of the Eleven Fatui Harbingers, and donned an expensive-looking suit. What would such an important figure be doing at an event like this? Does he fear nothing? The place must be riddled with security.
He entered the Goth Grand Hotel with two people: one at his left side, one at his right. So he has protection. Diluc was itching to get inside.
"Do you know what this means..?" Rosaria whispered with wide eyes.
"We're doomed?" Kaeya replied.
"No, it means they're filthy stinking rich! Let's go before they drink all the fancy shit."
Rosaria put on her mask and raced off in her heels, leaving her company in the dust. Diluc looked to Kaeya in confusion. He was wearing his everyday outfit with a mask on.
"How come I'm the only one in a disguise?"
"We don't need one, Rosaria and I were personally invited."
A silence hung in the air as Kaeya waved his invitation between his fingers. He winked. Diluc grimaced, putting on his red and orange mask.
"I really don't wanna know what, or who you had to do to get that."
"Don't forget your purse Ms.Ragnvindr!"
Diluc growled and snatched the bag from Kaeya before departing for the hotel. This evening was already the bane of his existence and he hadn't even reached the event yet. His legs were already chafing and the breeze kept whisking up his dress. Curse you Barbatos. He caught glimpses of people staring as they passed by and blushed under their gazes. He lowered his head and quickened his pace. What a nightmare.
When he said he'd do anything to abolish the Fatui, this isn't what he had in mind. He envisioned an epic showdown in some secret headquarters, not a ballroom.
Diluc glanced up from the ground a second too late and bumped into someone who had just gotten out of a carriage. The masked figure turned, seemingly unamused.
"Oh, my apologies, I wasn't…"
He was swiftly stunned by the harbinger's sea blue eyes. He wore an intimidating dark red mask with a scarf that matched in colour. His orange hair was done up in a classy manner to align with his fancy dark gray suit. He seemed just as stunned as Diluc. The darknight hero panicked, wondering if he had already been figured out.
"Excuse me–"
The stranger took his hand and pulled him back gently before he could leave. Diluc simply stood there, questioning his true intentions. He firmly gripped his purse just in case he'd have to get stabby. The harbinger examined him for a moment before putting an arm behind his back and bowing formally.
"Certainly someone as beautiful as you must be royalty."
Of all things, he didn't expect that.
Diluc averted his eyes and tried to dispel the blood rushing to his face. He took a step back, attempting to flee the embarrassing situation.
"You flatter me sir…"
But the man just reeled him back, this time planting a soft kiss on his hand. Diluc's lips parted in shock, and he suddenly found his desire to flee melting away. There was something so tantalizing about him. Maybe it was his mannerisms, or the mystery of the mask, or those deep blue eyes piercing him through the holes.
"I'm the 11th of the Fatui Harbingers. You can call me Tartaglia, Childe, or yours. I'd prefer the last one."
Diluc's throat went dry. Are all harbingers this flirtatious? This was going to be a very long night.
"Pardon me Tartaglia, but I really must–"
"–ask to be my date to the party? How forward of you. We only just met and you already can't get enough of me."
Childe interlocked their arms and walked them into the building. This wasn't part of the plan. He didn't have time to humour a harbinger all night. Diluc glanced about the room, conducting a mental analysis of his surroundings. A chandelier hung over the centre of the currently empty dance floor. The dance wouldn't start until The Jester made his grand speech, so most people were scattered around chatting about politics and other matters.
The place was packed with powerful masked figures. Diluc found himself subconsciously moving closer to Childe and tightening his hold on his arm.
At this point, he couldn't understand his own actions. He really didn't know why he was letting Childe lead him through the ballroom, or why he felt so at ease in his presence. He was just another Fatui scum he would eventually crush under his heel. He had to find a way to rid himself of this buffoon or he'd never get any info. Childe seemed oblivious to Diluc's schemes as he approached two other harbingers.
The short one rolled his eyes behind his purple mask.
"Tartaglia, how delightful."
He looked mildly shocked as his gaze landed upon Childe's date.
"Who's this?"
Diluc deadpanned. People can't be this stupid.
"She's my date of course! Isn't that right, Miss?"
"Actually–"
"Your date?!"
The hat-wearing harbinger doubled over with loud laughter. Childe did not find it amusing.Even the sky blue haired man next to him chuckled. Diluc froze. That couldn't be…
With hopes to put an end to their ridiculing laughter, Childe heaved a sigh.
"Miss, these are my… coworkers. That's Scaramouche and that's–"
"Dottore." Diluc murmured, barely above a whisper.
"Pleasure to meet you," Dottore bowed slightly and took Diluc's hand but the redhead instantly swiped it from his grip.
Dottore frowned at the action. Rage shook Diluc's bones. He wanted nothing more than to just take the dagger out of his purse and gut him where he stood. He could feel his palms warming up to strike him down in a blaze of fire. How dare he. How dare he smile and laugh after all he's done. Let's see if he's still smiling in his grave.
"Are you okay? What's wrong?"
Childe's concerned voice brought him out of his thoughts. He remembered that he wasn't supposed to be here as Diluc Ragnvindr. He was supposed to be regal and elegant. He was supposed to leave his transgressions in the back of his mind. He restrained his homicidal urges and did the next best thing.
Diluc clung to Childe's arm and moved slightly behind him. Childe noticed his date's timid behaviour and suddenly became aggravated by Dottore's presence.
"Dottore! Your ugliness is scaring my lady! I demand you leave at once."
"Yes Dottore please leave before we all get nightmares. Don't you have some kids to kidnap or something?" Scaramouche agreed.
Dottore scoffed and stormed off. Diluc couldn't help but chuckle lightly. He never understood why so many people who hate each other would choose to work under the same organization. Childe smiled at him and wrapped an arm around his waist to pull him close. He affectionately brushed a stray strand of hair off his face. Diluc had no choice but to place his hands on his shoulders and meet his eyes. His heartbeat was speeding up and he didn't know why.
Don't fall prey to his tricks Diluc! Remember what you came here for!
"Good riddance huh? Was he bothering you sweetheart?"
Diluc didn't know how to respond. He felt so warm and comfortable… he's never met someone that made him feel this way.
"You guys are making me sick. I'm outta here."
Scaramouche left.
"Seems I finally have you to myself again."
Diluc panicked again. If he spent any more time in his embrace, he was sure he'd fail his mission. His gaze darted around until he saw a head of wine-coloured hair. Rosaria was chugging a bottle of alcohol with two already empty bottles on the table next to her. Some guests gathered around her at a safe distance, desperately trying to convince her to slow her roll. Diluc also noticed a punch bowl.
He gulped at what he was about to do. For the mission.
Diluc batted his eyelashes and wrapped his arms around Childe's neck, leaning in closer. Childe's eyes flicked up and down, glancing between his lips and eyes. He couldn't tell which was more captivating. He was mesmerized. He's been longing for his date to make a move since they met. Diluc stopped short.
"I'm thirsty, fetch me something to drink?"
Childe was gone. He ran off so fast Diluc could have sworn he saw a dust cloud take his place. The line at the punch bowl should keep him occupied long enough. Diluc dove into the sea of masks. Luckily for him, each harbinger mask was unique from everyone else's. He studied each guest carefully: most had average plain coloured masks with no particular design. There was no sign of The Jester anywhere and the small stage was still empty. Is he still getting ready?
Diluc spotted another familiar head of hair. He spun Kaeya around and grabbed him by his biceps.
"Where. Were you."
"Uh partying? Drinking? Socializing? Acting like a normal human being, not a rich bachelor who gets everything handed to him on a silver platter?"
"You call this socializing?"
Kaeya was standing alone in complete silence by a pillar.
"... I'm simply soaking in the atmosphere."
Diluc ignored his ramblings and glared at him.
"I've been getting hit on all night. Everyone thinks I'm a girl!"
Kaeya stared blankly at him through his blue and gold mask.
"Diluc you are a girl."
Diluc looked down at himself.
"Oh. Right. Anyway, have you seen The Jester anywhere?"
"You mean Pierro? I just spoke with him not too long ago, he should be wrapping up his rehearsal soon."
"You spoke with him..?"
"Diluc, I have a boob window, everyone wants to talk to me."
Diluc was reaching his limit of how many interactions with Kaeya he could handle in one night. He swore the knight only spoke to hear his own voice. He couldn't even teach himself to filter out the nonsense and keep the important bits because everything that came out of his mouth was nonsense. It was either a lie, a joke, or him whining about something. Diluc didn't know why he even tried to hold a conversation with him.
Out of the corner of his eye he detected a pale blue mask. Diluc turned and finally spotted The Jester. He walked amongst the nearby crowd to greet some of the guests. He conducted himself with poise and charm as he mingled. After chatting briefly, he made his way to the stage.
Diluc had to figure out a way to meet with him and get rid of those bodyguards. Maybe he could get some more information on delusions or the Tsaritsa's plan, or other harbingers. Speaking of harbingers, Diluc's mind wandered to Childe as he snuck through the crowd. He must have got the punch by now… is he looking for me? Should I go back? Diluc thought. Pull yourself together Diluc, we're not here for that.
As Diluc was making his way closer to try to intercept the host before he got to the stage, he saw someone sitting against a pillar.
Childe sat with his knees pulled up to his chest, his face buried in his arms. He looked absolutely miserable. Two glasses of juice were next to him on the floor: one was empty, one was still full. He must have thought Diluc ditched him… which he technically did. He felt a twinge of guilt, glancing between The Jester and his supposed 'date.' This shouldn't even be a question. He just met Childe a few hours ago.
He started towards the Jester, then turned around. I hate myself.
"Childe..?" He quietly called.
Childe raised his head and leaped up almost the second he saw Diluc. He was ecstatic. It seemed like his dejected mood vanished completely. Diluc strangely felt satisfied despite not getting his chance with the 1st of the harbingers. The night was still young, surely he'd get another chance later on. The chatter died down a fraction as the speech started. He could barely pay attention to the words, not with the way Childe was smiling at him.
"I looked everywhere for you! I thought something terrible had happened."
Diluc's eyes widened as he was pulled into a hug.
"Oh thank the Tsaritsa you're alright. Please don't run away again…"
Diluc patted his back gently. He never knew harbingers could be so… dramatic. Childe could easily pick up any other girl at the party if he treated them like this. Diluc couldn't comprehend what was so special about him in particular. He barely spoke to Childe the entire night, yet the man was at his heels like a deprived puppy. Somehow… Diluc was beginning to see his behaviour as less annoying, but more endearing. The fact that Childe cared so much flustered Diluc. He thought this sort of chivalry only existed in legends.
Childe was no ordinary harbinger, he'd give him that. That would only make things all the more challenging…
The short speech soon came to an end. From what Diluc gathered, this party was meant to commemorate the death of Signora. The Tsaritsa couldn't make it, so she sent Pierro to speak in her absence. They wheeled out a sculpture of the Crimson Witch of Flames to the middle of the room and got the band to play some music. The dance floor was open to guests now and people already began dragging their partners towards it. Dance..? Oh no.
Childe pulled away from their embrace and looked towards the small gathering of people. That was Diluc's cue to get the hell out of there.
"This was lovely but it's getting late so I think I'll turn in for the night…"
He was too late. Childe grabbed his arm with a grin.
"You're not escaping this time!"
He started pulling him along. Diluc searched frantically for an escape and pleaded for someone to come to his aid. He spotted Kaeya and Rosaria, and they spotted him.
'Help me. Please.' he mouthed.
They stared at him for a moment, then turned away like they hadn't seen anything. Diluc wanted to cry.
Childe brought them to a spot where he was sure they'd have enough room and extended his hand.
"May I have this dance?"
Diluc frantically shook his head.
"No. This isn't a good idea– I-I can't dance."
Childe chuckled, "oh c'mon it's easy! Just follow my lead."
Diluc anxiously eyed his open palm. It was so inviting, but he wasn't just acting this time: he really wasn't a dancer. Of course he had been invited to ballrooms as a wealthy head of the wine industry, but he just tossed the invitations right into the fire. This was one of the many reasons he wasn't one for parties. Childe didn't look like he was about to take no for an answer, though. Diluc didn't want to upset him again after ditching him earlier.
He tentatively took his hand. There's no harm in trying, right? He's already humiliated himself enough tonight, might as well keep pushing.
He placed his other hand on Childe's shoulder and blushed as he felt a hand creep up to hold his waist. His dance partner started off slow and patient, waiting for him to catch on. Diluc couldn't lie: he was very distracted. They were so close the noses of their masks would brush occasionally. Every time Childe laughed his breath would tickle Diluc's face. He felt so hot it was insane. His ears were almost as red as his own hair and his palms felt as if they were pouring sweat.
Even through all this, he eventually got it… sorta.
Childe didn't care whether he grasped the concept or not. He saw the opportunity to get close to his date and leaped at it without a second thought. Truth be told, he was a lousy dancer. He only watched a few dances in his hometown before he fell into the abyss. There wasn't much dancing to be done in the Fatui but… standing in front of him was a woman so gorgeous he could hardly think. How could he not try some hands on learning?
They moved aimlessly to the music. It was serene, like Childe. Diluc felt so soothed… he rested his head on Childe's shoulder and breathed in his scent. It reminded him of the sea near the beach and sandy starconches.
Childe was taken aback at the gesture. His stomach fluttered and his face heated up. At the rate his heart was racing, he was sure he'd drop dead any time now. That fortune slip from Inazuma was totally right! He couldn't be much happier.
"Hey, don't go falling asleep on me now. The party's just getting started."
Diluc faced him once more.
"Childe, why did you ask me to be your date to the party?"
"Because, I wanted you to be my date to the party."
"But why?"
"Well… from the moment I first saw you, I already wanted you all to myself. You're really pretty and everything you do just makes me like you even more… I feel like I'm losing my mind…"
Diluc sighed.
"I'm not who you think I am, really."
"I don't care. It doesn't matter where you come from or what you do. You don't have to tell me anything. Just… give me this one night. Please."
He has to be delusional, Diluc thought. Still, he refused to come to terms with the fact that he's never felt so treasured in his life. He couldn't comprehend that a fatui harbinger was wrapping him around his finger like it was nothing. It felt surreal, like a dream. How could he allow this to happen? It goes against everything he stands for. But… Tartaglia was unlike anyone he's ever met.
Oh this is bad. This is very very bad.
The song came to an end. The band flipped through their sheet music and tuned their instruments, preparing for the next song. Diluc felt like Kaeya had frozen him. He had all but forgotten the Jester by now, because Childe had such a stupid grin on his face. He was just so happy it was brightening Diluc's mood, and it was pissing him off. How dare he look so cute all of a sudden. He's nothing but a Fatui scum. Nothing but a stain on this world. Nothing, nobody.
Diluc narrowed his eyes, "I should wipe that smile right off of you."
Childe faintly trailed his thumb across Diluc's lower lip, a fond look beaming in his gaze. Diluc quickly realized that Childe did not catch his malicious tone at all and that his idea of "wiping a smile" was completely different than the harbinger's.
"I'm right here. What's stopping you?"
He wasn't trying to flirt, really. Is this what he always sounds like when he threatens people? Be that as it may, he couldn't deny that Childe's offer was quite tempting… quite tempting indeed…
"Please excuse my interruption, but I couldn't help but notice you two on the dancefloor."
Reluctant on both ends, Diluc and Childe turned to the offender. This entire night Diluc would never have anticipated that he would actually be disappointed to see the Jester.
Pierro dismissed his guards and focused his attention on his guests.
"Tartaglia, a pleasure as always," he was quick to turn towards Diluc as they finished shaking hands, "and who's this fine young lady?"
Childe's grip on Diluc's waist could have killed something. He made no attempt at friendliness, glaring coldly at the man before him.
"This is my date."
Diluc started feeling a bit too hot.
Pierro seemed to ignore him and took Diluc's hand. If looks could skin people alive, Childe's dark stare would turn the Jester into a lampshade. He bent slightly to place a kiss on his hand but Childe swiftly formed a hydro sword and thrusted it beneath his neck. The high pressured blade nearly nicked at Pietro's skin and he froze, casting a look up at Childe. The 11th harbinger only stared back, unblinking.
"I'll kill you right where you stand."
Pierro chided him even in the face of death.
"Tartaglia, I thought the invitation stated to leave all visions at the door."
"Do you really think I'm that stupid? Back off. Now."
"Oh please, you're not really gonna–"
He flinched as a switchblade barely grazed his cheek. He traced the weapon to its holder and found Diluc's matching frigid glare.
"He might not, but I will."
Childe snuck a glance at Diluc and had to refrain from smiling until cheekbones broke. He had been secretly hoping she'd expose her dark side. It only intrigued him more. Would she be into sparring?
The Jester finally relented and straightened up.
"Well, I just wanted to stop by. I'll be going now, enjoy the party."
He made his getaway, clearly speed walking and trying to disappear from their view in the crowd. Childe dismissed his sword and Diluc tucked his blade back into his purse neatly. Surprisingly, no one cared to comment on what had just come to pass. They either didn't see it or didn't care. Diluc felt good about striking fear into the harbinger responsible for pulling all the strings… but he realized he scared him away without obtaining any information.
Childe was a bad influence.
Diluc had been so caught up with him that he completely abandoned the mission. He might never get another chance to redeem himself before the party ends.
"So, you look pretty skilled with a blade."
Diluc tensed, "I-I can explain–"
"No need, your secret is safe with me. If you promise to face me one on one of course."
"... Do you have a death wish?"
Childe laughed.
"Dying in the arms of the woman of my dreams? Sounds like a pretty reasonable wish to me."
Diluc only felt even more guilty at that. How could he call me the woman of his dreams? He doesn't even know me. There was much Childe didn't know about Diluc, and the worst part was that he had no interest in knowing. He was so captured by the stunning mystery girl that he just didn't care. He's fallen for Diluc's false version of himself, a product of Kaeya's design… Diluc frowned and decided he had to say something before Childe got too carried away and hurt his own feelings. It was nice while it lasted.
Hm, an act of sympathy for a member of the Fatui… man, Diluc had it bad.
"Childe there's something you should–"
"There they are! They attacked lord Jester and snuck in without invitations!"
Diluc and Childe were torn from their conversation by four armed Fatui agents standing across the room. They maneuvered through the tightly packed bodies with haste. Diluc wasn't afraid, not in the slightest. He was prepared to fight everyone in this building and emerge from an ocean of blood. Just because he was in a dress didn't mean he wasn't willing to get dirty. Screw his persona, Childe already knew the truth anyway.
But Childe seemed to have other plans. As always.
Before Diluc knew it he was being swept off his feet.
"Hold tight girlie."
Diluc cringed, who says that? Nevertheless, he wrapped his arms around his date's neck. A purple glow brewed in Childe and electro sparks bounced off his form. The display was so bright… but Diluc couldn't take his eyes off of him. Soon, Diluc found himself feet off the ground and in the arms of a being constructed by Childe's delusion. The transformation shook the earth and nearly toppled the Signora statue. The harbingers were unbothered by the scene and continued about their business as if they had seen the dramatic presentation several times.
The agents stilled, fear chilling their bones. Some of Childe's subordinates knelt with their heads bowed. Diluc felt a little embarrassed with almost everyone's eyes on him.
Foul legacy moved through the crowd in quick strides. The agents snapped out of their daze and resumed the chase. One particular agent appeared from a red silhouette in the air and attempted to intercept him. He brought his arm up to shield Diluc and simultaneously deflected the attack. His armour was much too strong for something as weak as an agent's blade to cause any real damage.
They neared the back of the hotel. A huge glass pane blocked their path but foul legacy pressed on.
"Childe watch the–!"
But one second Diluc was in the ballroom, the next he was outside. In a flash foul legacy phased beyond the glass and raced into the woods. The teleportation stunned Diluc for a moment and made him feel slightly nauseous. He couldn't comprehend how Kaeya did it so often. Then again, he's a show-off, so minor repercussions like this wouldn't bother him.
Childe noticed Diluc's discomfort and slowed down until he stopped completely. He mindfully placed him on the ground. Diluc was fascinated by foul legacy. He wondered how such a vicious killing machine born of a ruthless organization could be so… gentle. Even the claws didn't leave a scratch on him.
What could Childe possibly be doing in a group like the Fatui..?
Foul legacy collapsed against a small boulder beside Diluc. The white strands of his hair gradually began to fade back to the previous shade. His cape dissolved from the base all the way up to his shoulders, returning his scarf to his neck. His form shrank and shrank: his boots, his arms, his legs.
The harbinger slouched against the rock with a wince and shallow breaths as all the armour finally departed. Diluc sat next to him, curiously examining his face.
"Are you dying?"
Childe gave a weak chuckle.
"I'm gonna wish I was."
Diluc frowned. Childe was terribly pale, almost sickly so. He rummaged around in his purse and pulled out a napkin, bringing it up to wipe the blood oozing from his nostril.
"Why would you do that? Delusions are dangerous, didn't anyone tell you that? This sort of thing could kill you Childe. Trust me, I know…"
Why do I even care? Diluc furrowed his brows as he continued to pat the underside of Childe's nose.
He pried his eyes open, casting them to Diluc. Their gazes locked. Their heartbeats seemed to synchronize.
"If those guys caught us, they were gonna hurt you. And I know you're clearly skilled enough to hold your own, but… I've got your back y'know? I'd do anything for you."
"But you don't even know me. You don't even know my name. How could you say that?"
Childe shrugged, staring out at the open sky.
"Life is short. My master taught me to seize every moment, every opportunity, to never let anyone or anything slip through my fingers. No matter what the cost is. It's better to act first and save the questions for later."
Diluc felt like tearing out his own hair. Childe was impossible.
"Oh for the love of–"
Diluc yanked out his ponytail and let his crimson waves rain. He removed his mask then wiped off the eyeliner and lipgloss. He clipped the belt bearing his vision to his waist. He gestured to himself; Childe just stared at him. Diluc sighed, realizing someone as slow as him needed an elaborate explanation.
"I've been in disguise this whole time. Your so called 'date' doesn't actually exist. It's been me all along: Diluc Ragnvindr of Mondstat, head of the wine industry. I tricked you."
Childe didn't respond.
"... I'm not a girl."
"Where's the problem?"
Diluc was slightly taken aback by that.
"Doesn't that bother you or something? You literally thought I was some beautiful woman of your dreams this entire evening."
"... Can I still call you beautiful?"
Diluc grabbed him and shook him insistently.
"Are you even listening?! I came to this masquerade ball under an alias to torture information out of your boss. In fact, I might have even tried to kill him if I had the chance. I despise the Fatui and everything you people stand for."
"Okay."
Diluc ceased his shaking and looked at him like he was crazy.
"... You gotta be shitting me."
Childe lowered his gaze.
"Are you saying you don't want to go out with me because I'm part of the Fatui..?"
That's what he took from that? That's the devastating part?? Childe was right though, he should be saying that. That should be what he meant… but it wasn't.
"No Childe I… I want to be with you."
What am I saying…
"But you should hate me. I ditched you, I betrayed you, doesn't that make you angry?"
"Not really, you're with me now aren't you?"
Diluc's eyes widened. He must be brainless. He's sweet, really, but a total moron. Maybe that's what Diluc liked so much about him. Maybe that's why Diluc agreed to being his date after a while. Despite the faction he belonged to, Childe clearly had his own personal values and the capability to love others. That's what separated him from the scum. It's been quite sometime since Diluc experienced kindness as profound as this.
Childe glanced his way and met Diluc's stare. He couldn't help but sneak a glimpse at his lips for what must have been the hundredth time tonight. They were sitting so close…
"Diluc… I really want to kiss you."
Diluc blushed, averting his gaze. Archons what are we? Teenagers?
"I would like that very much…"
Childe grinned and used what was left of his strength to lean into Diluc. The ex knight found his lips to be surprisingly soft, like sand beneath shallow water. He wasn't surprised Childe had gotten a hydro vision. Everything about the harbinger reminded him of water, of the streams he used to play in with his brother, of the rain that showered the grapevines. He could be violent and temperamental like the ocean, but he could also be as tranquil as a pond.
Diluc never realized how much he loved water.
When Childe pulled away, it was almost as if he had stars in his eyes. He was certain he had briefly seen the gates of Celestia. He was enraptured. He desperately wanted more, but he could feel his consciousness slipping. The transformation took almost everything out of him this time. Next time, he might not be so lucky… but he's here now, and he has Diluc for as long as they have time. He intends to cherish him until his very last breath.
"Let's rest here for a while…"
Childe was already dozing off before he even finished his sentence.
Diluc gave a small smile and rested his head on his shoulder.