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The steel tip of Diluc's claymore cut through the soft sand with a dull scrape, leaving behind a thin line reminiscent of a child's finger tracing patterns in the dirt. But there was no joy in this makeshift doodle, no playful delight. Instead, each laborious drag of the weapon felt like a large task, the weight of fatigue pressing down on Diluc's shoulders like a heavy chain.
He wanted to sheathe his weapon, to relieve his weary muscles of their burden, but even that simple task seemed beyond his current capabilities. With each step, the weight of the claymore seemed to multiply, dragging him down like an anchor tethered to the ocean floor.
The relentless grind of his recent “tasks” had left him drained, his energy reserves depleted to the point of exhaustion. And so, with each sluggish movement, Diluc could do little more than drag his weapon along the shore, the effort leaving him feeling more like a wounded soldier than the formidable knight he once was.
He halted his slow progress, his chest heaving as he sucked in ragged breaths of salty sea air. Diluc was anything but out of shape; years of meticulous training had honed his physique to a fine edge. Yet, despite his physical prowess, the toll of his recent run in had done much to negate that fact. Bruises and cuts adorned his body like gruesome badges of honour, souvenirs from altercations with the Fatui that left him battered and sore.
It wasn't the first time he'd faced such an issue; his father's harsh, uncalled for beatings had been anything but pleasant, therefore somewhat preparing him for the rigours of combat. But even the most seasoned warrior had his limits, and Diluc was no exception. Each blow he weathered left its mark, a painful reminder of the price of his defiance.
Amidst his shift at Angel’s Share, rumours of Fatui activity had reached Diluc's ears, igniting a fierce determination within him. His disdain for the Fatui was well-known, a fiery passion burning within him like a smouldering ember waiting to erupt into flames.
To see them dare to set foot in Mondstadt uninvited was an offence to everything Diluc held dear. It was a challenge he couldn't ignore, a call to arms that demanded swift and decisive action.
And so, with grim determination etched upon his features, Diluc set out to confront the intruders, his resolve unshakable, his retribution swift and merciless. For those who dared to threaten his home, there would be no mercy, no quarter given. Especially to those who indirectly ruined his entire childhood. They deserved nothing less from the swift and crucial sense of justice at the hands of the Darknight Hero.
As much as Diluc wanted a swift and flawless victory, fate had other plans in store. The battlefield, littered with dead Fatui soldiers, bore witness to the brutality of his assault. Yet, despite his imposing skill and intense resolve, the odds had been stacked against him from the start.
A relentless onslaught of Fatui agents had descended upon him like a pack of hungry wolves, their numbers overwhelming even for a warrior as seasoned as Diluc. In the heat of battle, his rationality had been eclipsed by a seething rage, his every move driven by a primal instinct to survive at any cost.
The burden of his own fury weighed heavily upon him, provoked by the fierce whispers of the Delusion that lingered in the depths of his mind. Though he had long ignored its corrupting influence, its constant presence still haunted him, a sinister reminder of the darkness that lurked within.
Pushing past the reminder of his ignorance, a sudden constriction gripped his throat, forcing him to double over in a fit of coughing. His hand flew to his mouth, an ineffective attempt to repress the violent spasms that wracked his body.
When the coughing finally subsided, Diluc withdrew his hand, only to find it stained crimson with blood. The sight sent a shiver of dread coursing through him.
It was about time he started feeling the effects of his wounds.
As well as the pain, the harsh heat of the day bore down upon Diluc with an inhuman weight, saturating the air with a tangible intensity that seemed to sear his very skin. It was a stifling heat, unlike anything he had ever experienced, and he knew deep down that it was not his Vision alone that was responsible for its sudden attack. He must be getting sick.
With a low, rasping groan, Diluc shed his gloves, coat, and boots in a desperate bid to escape the suffocating embrace of the humid atmosphere. The fabric clung to his skin like a second layer of flesh, trapping the heat in a suffocating embrace that left him gasping for breath.
Collapsing to the ground in a weary heap, Diluc felt the strength drain from his limbs, leaving him weak and vulnerable beneath the ruthless onslaught of the heat. He had always been wary of exposing his scars to the world, the twisted remains of a past he would rather forget. Each mark bore evidence to the horrors he had endured at the hands of his father, a painful reminder of the trauma that still haunted his darkest memories.
Yet, in this moment of solitude, with the sun sinking low on the horizon and the deserted beach stretching out before him, Diluc found himself strangely unbothered by the weight of his past. The fading light cast long shadows across the sand, painting the world in hues of gold and amber, and for the first time in what felt like an eternity, he allowed himself to relax in the quiet beauty of the evening.
As the cool breeze whispered through the air, carrying with it the promise of relief from the heat, Diluc closed his eyes and let out a slow, steadying breath. In this fleeting moment of tranquillity, he felt a sense of peace wash over him, a brief pardon from the endless agitation of his troubled mind. And for the first time in what felt like an eternity, he allowed himself to simply be.
Despite the discomfort of his injuries, the bruises blossoming across his torso, and the faint sting of reopened wounds, Diluc couldn't help but be drawn into the calm beauty of his surroundings. The soft hum of the waves acted as a gentle lullaby, their rhythmic tempo almost hypnotic as they washed over the sand, inching ever closer to where he sat.
When there was nothing else around to worry him, had he ever truly stopped to appreciate the little things in life, like the surroundings? Since he could now clearly understand what he had been genuinely missing out on. Maybe he would have done it again if he could. Rather than spending the entire week cooped up at his office.
As the tide crept higher, cool water subtly washed at his feet, offering a welcome breather from the oppressive heat of his body. The ocean breeze brushed against his skin, carrying with it a refreshing coolness that eased the discomfort of his injuries and calmed the feverish heat that had gripped him.
In this moment, as the sun dipped lower on the horizon and the world around him was bathed in the warm glow of twilight, Diluc felt a sense of freedom wash over him, a fleeting reprieve from the weight of his past.
For as long as he could remember, fear had been a constant companion, a shadow that lurked in the darkest corners of his mind. His father's unforgiving abuse had instilled in him a deep-seated terror, a fear that any wrong move would spell his death.
But now, as he lay on the beach, bathed in the fading light of the setting sun, Diluc felt that fear begin to fade away. In its place was a newfound sense of peace, a quiet certainty that all would be well.
Diluc felt his eyelids grow heavy. The chill of his blood-soaked shirt seeped through his skin, a blunt sign of the trials he had endured.
"There you are!" The voice sliced through the gentle air like a sharp knife, jolting Diluc from his trance. His eyes snapped open, wide with alarm, as violent coughs wracked his body, spattering crimson onto the pristine white sand beneath him.
Kaeya. How could he have forgotten about him?
"I didn't think you'd run away to spend your time at the beach, but—" Kaeya's words trailed off abruptly, his voice tinged with growing concern as he took in the sight before him. Horror etched itself onto his features, his eyes widening as they swept over his brother's battered form.
"What the hell happened?" Kaeya's voice was low, edged with tension, as he slowly knelt down beside Diluc, his movements cautious and deliberate.
"I—" Diluc's words caught in his throat, choked by the rising tide of pain and exhaustion that threatened to overwhelm him. His memories felt like elusive phantoms slipping through his grasp, leaving him picking at shadows.
Kaeya's touch on his forehead brought an icy sting that he couldn't ignore, countering the feverish blaze that burned beneath his skin. The concern in Kaeya's eyes deepened, mingling with a flicker of fear that danced in the depths of his gaze.
"You've really done it this time," Kaeya murmured, his voice laced with a mixture of worry and frustration.
"I'm... fine," Diluc managed, his words feeble and unconvincing even to his own ears. Kaeya's scowl deepened at the hollow reassurance, his worry turning to a simmering anger that threatened to boil over.
"Are you serious? If I was just a minute later, you probably would've been dead!" Kaeya's words were sharp, swinging through the air like a blade, and Diluc flinched involuntarily, his heart sinking with guilt.
Kaeya's hands moved with practised efficiency as he gathered Diluc's belongings, his expression a mask of concern as he surveyed the bloodied claymore lying discarded in the sand.
"Just what have you been doing…" Kaeya's voice trailed off into a frustrated mumble, his brow furrowed with worry as he carefully retrieved the weapon, tucking it away with gentle care.
"I’m taking you to the Cathedral," Kaeya announced, his tone firm and resolute as he lifted Diluc's weakened form into his arms. Diluc opened his mouth to protest, but the words died on his lips, swallowed by the crushing weight of exhaustion that threatened to drag him under.
"Just... stay awake, please." Kaeya's voice softened, carrying a note of desperation as he gazed down at Diluc cradled in his arms, and with a determined stride, he began to make his way back to the city, each step a silent plea for Diluc to hold on just a little longer.
But despite his best efforts, Diluc couldn't keep that promise, and as the world faded to black around him, he surrendered to the enveloping darkness, the last traces of consciousness slipping from his grasp.
***
Diluc found himself consumed by a misty landscape, the air thick with a haunting fog that obscured his surroundings like a shroud of uncertainty. He stumbled through the dense mist, his heart pounding like a drum of dread, each beat echoing in the hollow cavern of his chest.
Among the swirling mist, a voice–familiar yet distorted–reached out to him like a eerie whisper. It was Kaeya's voice, calling out to him from the depths of the fog. Diluc's breath caught in his throat, a cold shiver creeping down his spine as he followed the haunting sound, his steps quickening with an urgency born of fear.
Through the ghostly haze, he finally saw Kaeya standing before him, his features twisted in agony, his eyes wide with terror. But before Diluc could even comprehend what was happening, his hands were wrapped around Kaeya's throat, fingers digging into soft flesh with a vice-like grip.
"No!" Kaeya's voice, strangled and desperate, pierced through the haunting silence of the mist, a plea for mercy lost in the void of Diluc's madness. But it was too late. Diluc's grip tightened viciously, his fingers like talons of darkness as they squeezed the life from his brother's body.
The sound of bones snapping echoed through the mist, a sickening symphony of horror that reverberated in Diluc's ears like a hymn of despair. And then, as suddenly as it had begun, it was over. Kaeya's lifeless form crumpled to the ground, a grotesque puppet discarded by its puppeteer.
Diluc recoiled in horror, his hands stained crimson with the blood of his brother, his mind a whirlwind of anguish and disbelief. He sank to his knees beside Kaeya's lifeless body, his breath ragged and shallow, tears streaming down his cheeks like silent rivers of grief.
In that moment of surreal agony, Diluc was consumed by a turbulence of emotions–guilt, remorse, and an overwhelming sense of loss that threatened to engulf him like the very mist that surrounded them. And as he gazed upon Kaeya's lifeless form, his heart shattered into a thousand pieces, each one a shard of pain that pierced his soul with every beat.
***
Diluc's eyes snapped open, his body drenched in a cold sweat, his heart racing like a wild stallion galloping through the night. For a moment, the lingering tendrils of the nightmare still clung to him like cobwebs, casting a shadow of fear over his waking consciousness.
But as his vision cleared and the fog of sleep lifted, he realised where he was–not lost in the haunted landscape of his dreams, but lying in a bed surrounded by the soft glow of dim lights. And sitting beside him, very much alive, was Kaeya.
"Diluc?" Kaeya's voice, intense with concern, cut through the silence like a beacon of light in the darkness, drawing Diluc back to the present moment.
Diluc's breath caught in his throat, his chest rising and falling in rapid succession as he struggled to shake off the lingering echoes of the nightmare that still recurred in his mind like a haunting melody.
"Kaeya," he managed to choke out, his voice hoarse with emotion, his hands trembling slightly as he made an effort to assure himself that this was real and not a dream.
Kaeya's hand reached out, a gesture of support, but Diluc recoiled, fearing he might inadvertently harm his brother, or worse.
"It was just a nightmare," Kaeya murmured softly, withdrawing his hand, his voice a soothing tonic to Diluc's frayed nerves. "You're safe now, I'm here."
Diluc closed his eyes, turning away from Kaeya, yet allowing the weight of his words wash over him like a healing tide, dispelling the lingering shadows of fear that still clung to his consciousness.
And as he lay there, bathed in the gentle glow of the Cathedrals lights, with Kaeya's presence firmly noted, Diluc finally eased into a sense of peace as he closed his eyes once more.
***
A while later, Diluc gradually opened his eyes for the second time, this time greeted by a much harsher glare of lights as they invaded his vision, making him squint. His head throbbed mercilessly, a determined drumbeat of agony that echoed through his skull with every pulse.
Turning gingerly onto his side, Diluc's fingers brushed against the swathes of bandages that wound tightly around his body, cocooning him in their sterile embrace. He felt suffocated, claustrophobic, the layers of gauze pressing against his skin like a suffocating shroud. But, ironically, despite extensive bandaging, he felt strangely exposed, stripped of his usual armour and laid bare before the world.
Beside him, the sound of a throat being cleared startled him, nearly causing him to jolt upright in surprise, his heart pounding erratically in his chest.
"Awake for good this time?" Kaeya’s voice was laced with irritation, even when the small interaction before that point was nothing short of caring. The sight of his brother perched on a stool beside the bed, arms crossed and brow furrowed in frustration, only served to deepen Diluc's sense of unease. Now that he was out of his daze, it seemed that Kaeya wanted answers.
Ignoring Kaeya's expectant gaze, Diluc turned away from his brother, a silent protest against the intrusion on his thoughts.
"Hey—!" Kaeya's voice rose in exasperation, his irritation becoming more apparent. "You don't get to ignore me now, I know you're perfectly capable of responding to me,”
Diluc clenched his jaw, his resentment bubbling to the surface like molten lava, his words dripping with venom that he hadn't intended to unleash.
"I don't have to explain anything to you," he spat, his voice a low growl that rebounded through the sterile confines of the room.
Kaeya's expression softened, a flicker of hurt flashing across his features before he composed himself, shuffling his stool closer to Diluc's bedside.
"I'm just worried," he admitted, his voice softer now, deep with genuine concern. "You don't pick fights you can't win, so what happened?"
"I did win. They just…" Diluc's voice trailed off, his gaze fixed on the pristine white sheets beneath him as he struggled to articulate the events that had led to his current predicament.
"They?" Kaeya's brow furrowed in confusion, his eyes narrowing in thought.
"The Fatui," Diluc clarified, and a heavy sigh escaped Kaeya's lips as he brought a hand to his face in exasperation.
"Of course you would," Kaeya muttered, his tone resigned. "You never miss an opportunity to get rid of them."
"They were going to—" Diluc began, but Kaeya cut him off with a weary shake of his head.
"Threaten the city? Yeah, when do they not," Kaeya interjected, a note of frustration creeping into his voice. "Have you considered that you don't need to do everything by yourself?"
"They had it coming. I had to blow off steam, anyway," Diluc replied, his voice evidently affected by exhaustion as he slumped back against the pillows, his gaze fixed on his bandaged hand.
Kaeya's eyebrow arched in disbelief at Diluc's words. "Blow off steam? Since when do you do that? You're the most level-headed out of all of us."
"It's nothing, don't worry," Diluc dismissed the topic, his hand beginning to itch beneath the layers of bandages, the scars burning with phantom pain.
"Diluc—" Kaeya's voice held a note of concern, but he hesitated, sensing that it was a conversation for another time. "Just, don't do that again."
"I'm sorry," Diluc murmured, the weight of his brother's worry settling heavily on his shoulders. He had been reckless, selfish, and he knew it. He had come dangerously close to succumbing to his own recklessness, leaving Kaeya to bear the burden of his mistakes alone.
Kaeya sighed, a mixture of relief and frustration playing across his features as he brushed a stray lock of hair from Diluc's face. "Be careful next time," he cautioned, his voice a mixture of exasperation and affection.
“I was being careful, they just outnumbered me,” Diluc huffed, his frustration evident in the sharpness of his tone as he recounted the altercation with Fatui. He started scratching at his hand in annoyance, too, and to quell the random burning sensation.
Kaeya sighed, his brows furrowing in concern. "Then you should’ve known to run for backup—we were literally taught this." He shook his head, the worry evident in the lines etched across his forehead.
As Kaeya's gaze fell upon Diluc's irritated hand, he moved swiftly, grabbing his wrist before he could inflict further harm upon himself. "Hey! Stop that," he admonished, his grip firm yet gentle as he prevented Diluc from exacerbating his injuries. "What are you doing?"
Diluc grunted in response, shifting slightly to find a more comfortable position that didn’t aggravate his wounds. "Burns," he explained tersely, his words clipped and devoid of elaboration. He didn't fully understand why the itching sensation plagued his hand, nor did he particularly care to delve into the intricacies of the matter.
Kaeya didn't press further, instead taking Diluc's hand and placing it against his own. It was a familiar action, yet Diluc flinched away suddenly as if touching his hand was going to cause Kaeya pain. But he persisted, and Diluc watched in confusion as his brother's palm enveloped his own, the sudden coolness of Kaeya's touch offering a soothing respite from the persistent discomfort. A wave of relief washed over Diluc as the sensation of burning went away, replaced by a gentle, soothing chill.
“Thanks,” Diluc mumbled, his voice barely above a whisper as he turned his gaze away, the gesture not going unnoticed by Kaeya, who offered a small, understanding nod in response.
There was a comfortable silence between them as Kaeya eventually urged Diluc to rest up more. He found it hard to do so when everything was aching so bad, but eventually the exhaustion took over anyway.
***
Kaeya watched with a sense of relief as Diluc gradually succumbed to the embrace of sleep, his fingers gradually releasing their grip on Kaeya's hand. A moment later, he detected the soft padding of footsteps approaching from behind.
"Is everything all right?" Barbara's voice, gentle yet concerned, carried a soothing quality as she came to a halt beside Kaeya. Her presence, like a beacon of hope, brought a measure of comfort to the tense atmosphere of the deserted room. With her healing touch, she tended to Diluc's wounds, though not entirely erasing their pain.
Kaeya returned her gaze with a grateful smile, acknowledging her invaluable contribution to Diluc's recovery. "Thanks to you, everything's fine," he assured her, the weight of worry gradually easing from his shoulders in her presence.
"I'm just doing my duty, Sir Kaeya," Barbara replied humbly, her eyes flickering briefly to Diluc's still form, assessing his condition for any signs of distress. Satisfied with her assessment, she continued, "And I couldn't refuse to help Master Diluc in his condition."
Kaeya nodded thoughtfully, “That reminds me,” his gaze shifted to Diluc's bandaged hand as he started to voice his concern. "He's been complaining about his hand burning. Specifically this one," he remarked, gently lifting Diluc's right hand for Barbara's inspection. The bandages, though neatly applied, could not conceal the deep scars that marred the skin beneath.
Barbara's expression tightened with concern as she accepted Diluc's hand, her hydro vision casting a gentle glow as she examined it closely. "There doesn't seem to be anything wrong outwardly," she observed, her brow furrowing slightly in concentration. "But perhaps it's some sort of trauma response?" she ventured, her voice laced with empathy. "Similar to phantom pain, triggered by unpleasant memories associated with the injury."
Kaeya nodded in understanding, a flicker of recognition crossing his features. He knew all too well the ghosts of their shared past that haunted Diluc's thoughts. "Thanks, Barbara," he said with genuine gratitude, acknowledging her insight before she departed, leaving them alone once more in the quiet sanctuary of the room.
Diluc stirred, his consciousness gradually returning as he mumbled something unintelligible, his eyelids struggling against the weight of sleep.
Kaeya turned his attention to Diluc, his expression softened by concern. "Sorry, did we wake you?" he inquired, his voice gentle as he regarded his brother.
"Are we going home yet?" Diluc's response came in a groggy tone, reminiscent of their childhood mornings. It tugged at Kaeya's heartstrings, a bittersweet reminder of simpler times.
Kaeya chuckled softly at Diluc's eagerness. "Not yet. After you get more rest we can, though," he assured him, a fond smile gracing his lips.
Diluc's gaze met Kaeya's, a hint of determination shining through his fatigue. "I can walk," he insisted, his stubbornness undiminished even in his weakened state.
Kaeya shook his head, his tone gentle but firm. "You still need to be watched. You only got here a few hours ago," he reminded his brother, emphasising the importance of Diluc's recovery.
"What about you?” Concern flickered in Diluc's eyes as he turned the tables, his worry for Kaeya distinct. “You haven't been sitting there the whole time, have you?" he queried.
Kaeya offered a reassuring smile, though inwardly touched by Diluc's concern. "I'm not the one you should be worrying about, Diluc," he insisted, dismissing his own needs in favour of Diluc's well-being.
Diluc's protests faded into a resigned sigh as he turned away, a silent acknowledgment of Kaeya's unwavering devotion. "Fine," he relented, conceding to Kaeya's steadfast vigilance.
And so they settled into a companionable silence, each finding solace in the presence of the other.
***
A day had passed since Diluc's slow recovery had begun within the hallowed halls of the Cathedral, and now, it was finally time for him to bid farewell to its sheltering embrace. Yet, as he prepared to depart, his gaze fell upon Kaeya, who remained adamant at his side. Dark circles surrounded Kaeya's usually vibrant eye, evidence of a sleepless night spent in silent surveillance.
Despite Diluc's annoyance at Kaeya's evident exhaustion, he pushed aside his concerns and focused on the task at hand. With deliberate movements, he buttoned up his shirt, concealing the bandages that adorned his torso, and rose to his feet, testing the strength of his limbs with cautious steps. Each footfall brought a twinge of discomfort, yet Diluc pressed forward, determined to prove his resilience.
"You're not going to be able to make it back to the Winery," Kaeya's voice cut through the air, his tone open with a mix of concern and determination as he positioned himself beside Diluc. An involuntary roll of Diluc's eyes betrayed his irritation, but Kaeya pressed on undeterred.
"You sound pretty confident," Diluc retorted, his arms crossed in defiance.
Kaeya met his brother's defiant gaze with unwavering resolve. "Your wounds are still fresh. It's too risky for you to travel alone," he insisted, his emphasis bringing no argument.
"But what about Adelinde? She must be worried-"
"Handled," Kaeya interjected smoothly, a knowing smile curving his lips. "I sent her a letter yesterday. She knows where you are." With a gentle push, he urged Diluc forward, guiding him with a careful hand upon his shoulder.
Reluctantly, Diluc complied, allowing Kaeya to guide him forward. "You're really giving me no choice, are you?" he muttered, a hint of frustration lacing his words.
"I'm sorry, but after all the shit you get yourself in, I have to step in sometimes," Kaeya responded, his voice softening with understanding. "You'll send me to an early grave from the stress!"
"I don't need a babysitter," Diluc protested, defending his own wellbeing.
"I know, I know. It's just for now, okay? You're vulnerable," Kaeya reassured him.
He sighed, not bothered to respond anymore as they made their way over what Diluc assumed was Kaeya’s apartment.
***
As Diluc stepped into Kaeya's humble apartment, he couldn't help but take in the unfamiliar surroundings with a mixture of curiosity and apprehension. It was evident that the place was quite modest in its size, a reflection of a solitary existence devoid of extravagance. The space felt cosy yet lived-in, each corner imbued with a sense of warmth and familiarity that Diluc couldn't quite place.
Kaeya guided Diluc further into the apartment, closing the door behind them with a soft click before flicking on the lights. The illumination revealed a scattering of empty and half-filled bottles of various alcoholic beverages, a very obvious sign of Kaeya’s unrestrained indulgence. Diluc couldn't help but sigh heavily at the sight.
"I can feel the judgement radiating off you," Kaeya quipped, a playful glint dancing in his eyes as he brushed past Diluc and made his way towards the kitchen. "You must be hungry. Tell me, what do you feel like eating?"
Diluc's stomach churned uncomfortably at the mere mention of food, but he knew better than to argue. "An apple?" he offered tentatively, uncertain of himself.
Kaeya shrugged nonchalantly. "Better than nothing," he conceded with a mumbled undertone as he tossed the fruit to Diluc, who caught it with practised ease despite his sluggish movements.
As Diluc nibbled on the apple, savouring its crisp sweetness, Kaeya settled onto the couch beside him, a comforting presence in the dimly lit room. "You can sleep in my bed tonight, and tomorrow I'll help you change your bandages," Kaeya proposed, his tone gentle yet firm, leaving no room for negotiation. "Then you can go back to the Winery, and I'll be out of your hair." He placed a reassuring hand on Diluc's shoulder, a silent vow of support amidst the uncertainty that loomed ahead.
"If I listen to you, will you take care of yourself too?" Diluc's voice held a note of firmness as he pushed Kaeya's hand away, his gaze searching for a hint of understanding in his brother's eyes.
Kaeya adopted an air of innocence, though the sly undertone in his voice betrayed his facade. "Whatever do you mean?" he inquired, his lips twitching with suppressed amusement.
Diluc rolled his eyes, a faint exasperated sigh escaping his lips. "For one, it looks like you haven't slept in a few days," he remarked, his concern evident in the furrow of his brow, "and two," he gestured towards the scattered bottles strewn across the room, "You can't drink while I'm here," he added firmly, crossing his arms in a gesture of finality.
Kaeya emitted a nervous chuckle, his demeanour shifting as if caught red-handed. "You're going to ban me from drinking in my own home?" he protested, though his tone held a hint of resignation.
"Yes," Diluc affirmed, unwavering in his resolve. It was a temporary rule, after all, meant to ensure both their well-being during Diluc's stay.
"That's unfair," Kaeya lamented, his shoulders slumping in mock defeat.
"It sounds pretty fair to me," Diluc countered, his expression unyielding.
"Fine, fine. Whatever you say," Kaeya concurred with a resigned sigh, rising to his feet and stretching his limbs in a casual display of acceptance. "It's late now, so you should be getting to bed."
"We," Diluc corrected, matching Kaeya's movements as he stood upright.
"We," Kaeya echoed with a weary sigh, leading Diluc towards his bedroom, their footsteps echoing softly in the quietude of the apartment.
***
The night unfolded with surprising serenity, devoid of the usual onslaught of tormenting nightmares that often plagued Diluc's sleep. It was as if the sanctuary of Kaeya's home had cast a protective veil over his troubled mind, offering respite from the relentless grip of fear and uncertainty. Even the Delusion, known for its merciless grip on Diluc's mind, seemed to be lenient, granting him a moment of peace from its suffocating influence.
As the door creaked open, addressing Kaeya's entrance into the room, Diluc couldn't help but note the subtle shift in his brother's attitude. Despite the exhaustion etched into the lines of his face, there was a newfound vitality in Kaeya's manner, a
show his resolute dedication to Diluc's well-being. It was a sacrifice that weighed heavily on Diluc's conscience, a silent reminder of the burden his presence imposed on those he held dear.
"Sleep well?" Kaeya inquired, his voice a gentle lull in the stillness of the room as he approached Diluc's bedside.
Diluc nodded in response, a weary yet grateful smile gracing his lips as he pushed himself into a sitting position, casting aside the covers that cocooned him. His gaze lingered on his bandaged hand for a moment.
"Well enough," he murmured, peeling off the nightshirt that clung to his frame, his movements deliberate yet adorned with a hint of discomfort. "The pain has dulled somewhat," he conceded, his eyes tracing the outline of the bandages that encased his torso in a protective embrace.
Kaeya's brows furrowed in concern as he scrutinised the telltale signs of blood seeping through the bandages. "You can't ignore them," he warned gently, his tone laced with a mixture of worry and frustration. "Are you sure it's not too painful?"
Diluc sighed, rubbing his eyes in a futile attempt to dispel the lasting moments of sleep that clung to his senses. "It stings, but the pressure of the bandages helps," he admitted reluctantly, his gaze drifting away as if seeking solace in the safety of his own thoughts.
Kaeya chuckled softly, a warm glimmer of affection softening the edges of his features as he reached out to assist Diluc to his feet. "That's their job, after all," he remarked with a hint of amusement, his touch gentle yet reassuring. "Come on, let's go change them."
Kaeya guided Diluc to the bathroom with a steadying hand, the soft glow of the overhead lights casting a gentle warmth over the tiled floor. With practised efficiency, he settled Diluc onto a sturdy stool, ensuring his comfort before turning his attention to the task at hand.
"Sit still," Kaeya instructed, his voice a soothing cadence as he moved to the sink, where an array of supplies awaited their use. Rows of pristine bandages stood at attention, alongside a bottle of antiseptic solution, its sharp scent permeating the air with a distinct tang.
Diluc complied with Kaeya's directive, his muscles tense with anticipation as he braced himself for the discomfort to come. As Kaeya meticulously unravelled the blood-stained bandages that encased his torso, a shiver coursed through Diluc's frame, the cool air of the bathroom caressing his exposed wounds with a gentle, yet unsettling touch. Though the pain had dulled since yesterday, the tender flesh beneath the bandages still protested against the intrusion.
With precision, Kaeya reached for a soft cloth, its fibres gentle against Diluc's sensitised skin as he methodically cleansed the weeping wounds. Diluc gritted his teeth against the sting of the disinfectant, his breath hitching in his throat as Kaeya's touch traced the contours of his injuries with a careful tenderness.
They lapsed into a companionable silence as Kaeya worked, the rhythm of his movements a comforting cadence against the backdrop of the bathroom's muted ambiance. Each layer of fresh bandages was applied with painstaking care, their snug embrace offering a shield against the harsh realities of the outside world.
Finally, with the task completed, Kaeya turned to the sink, his hands expertly scrubbing away the remnants of their efforts. As he dried his hands, a sense of quiet satisfaction settled over the room.
Diluc eyed the door with a fleeting sense of urgency, a silent desire to escape the confines of Kaeya's meticulous care, but before he could make his move, Kaeya intercepted him quickly.
"Where are you off to in such a hurry? Sit yourself back down; your hair is in dire need of attention," Kaeya gently guided Diluc back onto the stool, his touch firm yet gentle as he settled him into place. Diluc couldn't help but begrudgingly acknowledge the truth in Kaeya's words; his hair was a tangled mess, something that begged for intervention.
With a begrudging sigh, Diluc gave in to Kaeya's insistence, though not without a token protest. "I'm perfectly capable of tending to my own hair, you know," he muttered under his breath, though the gruff edge to his tone betrayed his reluctance to admit defeat.
Kaeya waved off Diluc's protestations with an easy smile, his confidence enduring in the face of Diluc's stubbornness. "Nonsense. It's clear as day that you'd only aggravate your injuries attempting to wrangle this mess on your own. Consider it a temporary reprieve from your usual burdens," he quipped, his gaze holding a hint of playful challenge as he met Diluc's sceptical gaze head-on.
Diluc could feel the weight of Kaeya's scrutiny bearing down on him, a silent reprimand that left him feeling both imprisoned and strangely comforted in equal measure. With a resigned huff, he adjusted himself to Kaeya's ministrations, his posture relaxed as Kaeya set to work, his skilled hands weaving through Diluc's unkempt hair with adept ease.
***
With a final deft twist, Kaeya secured Diluc's hair into a tight braid, each strand falling seamlessly into place under his touch.
"Thanks," Diluc murmured softly, his voice a tender whisper that hung in the air like a delicate melody. It was a simple phrase, yet laden with unspoken sentiment.
Kaeya met Diluc's gaze with a knowing smile, his eyes reflecting the warmth and affection that filled the space between them.
Kaeya's hand swept through the air, flicking away imaginary flecks of dust as he completed his task with an air of satisfaction. The subtle gleam in his eyes spoke of accomplishment, a silent acknowledgement of a job well done.
"Do you want to stay for breakfast?" Kaeya's voice, filled with warmth and hospitality, permeated the room, his movements fluid as he tidied up the remains of their morning routine.
Diluc's gaze drifted downward, his expression growing sombre as a veil of melancholy settled over his features. The weight of duty pressed heavily upon him, a silent reminder of the responsibilities that awaited him beyond the walls of Kaeya's apartment.
"I should go," Diluc murmured softly, his voice heavy with resignation as he rose from his seat, the faint sound of fabric rustling against fabric as he moved. Kaeya followed silently in his wake, a silent companion to Diluc's silent contemplation.
"I guess I can’t keep you," Kaeya's words hung in the air, a gentle acknowledgment of Diluc's obligations, yet tinted with a hint of reluctance. His shoulders lifted in a casual shrug, a gesture of acceptance mingled with a faint undercurrent of concern. "But you better eat something when you get back,"
Diluc's movements were swift and purposeful as he donned a fresh set of clothes, the fabric slipping over his skin as the next layer. Each motion was precise, deliberate, a demonstration to the efficiency born of years of training and discipline.
"Don't worry," Diluc reassured Kaeya, though his words carried a weight of uncertainty beneath their surface. His voice was steady, yet clear with a hint of apprehension as he spoke. "I'm sure Adelinde will make sure of that."
Kaeya gave a brisk nod in approval. "Do you need an escort?"
"No, I'm fine. The walk back should clear my head a little." Diluc dismissed the offer with a quick wave of his hand.
Although he anticipated encountering some stray Hilichurls on his journey home, Diluc exuded confidence in his ability to navigate through them unscathed. His evasive skills had proven invaluable in the treacherous landscapes of Snezhnaya, and that was probably the worst situation anyone could find themselves in.
"Alright," Kaeya replied simply, displaying a tacit trust in Diluc's judgement. Yet, beneath the surface, Diluc sensed a hint of concern lingering in his brother's gaze. And he couldn't at all blame him for feeling that way.
Diluc put his coat and boots back on at the front door. Then he turned back to Kaeya, gratitude weighing heavily on his heart.
"Thank you for... all this," he murmured, his voice betraying him with a hint of sheepishness. He wrestled with guilt for burdening Kaeya with his troubles, particularly since they stemmed from a promise he had failed to fulfil. What would Kaeya say if he discovered the truth?
Kaeya's smile softened, and he approached Diluc, enveloping him in a warm side hug. "What kind of person would I be to watch you struggle to take care of yourself?" he mused, releasing Diluc and gently nudging him toward the door.
Diluc almost stumbled on the way out. He couldn't decide if he was offended or touched. He could very well take care of himself.
"Yeah... okay, sure," Diluc rolled his eyes playfully, offering a wave before turning to depart. Kaeya waved back behind him.
"Say hello to Adelinde for me!" He shouted in the distance, which Diluc smiled at.