Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It was midnight when Diluc woke up from the sound of blaring knocking that could be heard all the way from the first floor. It was followed by a loud bang that made him Immediately jump out of the bed. His eyes refused to unstick, and his hair was standing as if he was electrocuted all day long. He ran downstairs with a sword – just in case. He met up with Adelinde, who was ready to go and wake him up.

"…Master Diluc!" she yelped with a concerned expression on her face.
"Yes, Adelinde. Did something happen?'' , asked Diluc.

''Well, I assume you’ve heard the sound? It seems that a couple of treasure hoarders needed to discuss something with you, but they left before I could even speak with them... When I looked at the floor, I found a silver Raven Insignia attached with a letter", she reported while handing it out to Diluc.

Carefully, he opened the letter…

He was hit with great confusion. It was a letter filled with numbers that did not make any sense at all… Or perhaps… Could it be a code of some sort? But why was it sent by treasure hoarders? What kind of business does he have with them? After all, he's just an owner of a winery! While Diluc could not understand a single thing written in the letter, something about it felt oddly familiar.

  “Tch, another thing to worry about” , he mulled.

" Easy now, Master Diluc. Calm down. Why don’t you go back to sleep and deal with this in the morning?"

"Adelinde, There has to be a reason as to why it's written this way. Now I doubt if I can even put my mind at ease."

"Consider going to the library in the morning. I'm certain Lisa knows how to handle this. But for now, please go get some rest."

Diluc sighed as he turned away. He began going upstairs looking at the letter, holding the Insignia with the other hand.

Morning came. Yet again, Diluc was on his feet. While getting ready, his mind was filled with questions that he was yet to answer. 

He skipped breakfast. Adelinde, of course, did not approve of this – yet, he was still inclined to head towards the city. Upon getting there as usual, almost every passing person greets him. But right now, he does not have the time for any small-talk; He has more important business to attend to. Making his way to the library, he met Lisa the librarian. Bingo! Exactly who he is after.

"… excuse me, Miss Lisa?" Diluc hesitated. He and Lisa do not talk too often.

"Good morning darling~ is there anything you need help with, on this fine morning?"

"Yes, please. I would like you to help me translate this letter I got last night.''

Lisa chuckled as Diluc gave her the letter. "Of course, sweetie! But don’t forget that everything comes with a price~ especially when you decided to show up this early in the morning~"

"My apologies ...How much?" he said instantly and began looking for his wallet. 

''Never mind… Let's just go and work on the translation."

Lisa took a quick look at the letter and began walking her way to the library. Diluc simply stood there, confused; only but naturally.

 Lisa suddenly turned around: “Are you coming, or do you plan on standing there all day?"

"Ah! Yes, I'm coming!''

He caught up to her, and they both entered the library.

Lisa picked a couple of books from one of the library's shelves, while Diluc impatiently wondered just how long this would take. He sat down next to Miss Lisa, and watched closely as to how she deciphered the letter, bit by bit… When suddenly, Lisa broke the silence:

“Master Diluc, could you please be so kind and get off my head?” – she scolded Diluc.

“Oh, why of course! Where are my manners?”
He then backed off.

An awkward silence arose once more between the two. But yet again, Lisa began chatting with Diluc so he won't be bored out of his mind.

“Have you noticed something strange happening recently?” 

“Maybe I have – but you, out of everyone, would know that it's no secret at this point.”

Lisa giggled: “So, the case of the mysterious Nachzeher has also picked your interest, I assume?”

“Don’t make me laugh, Miss Lisa. If I won’t keep an eye on the case – who will? The knights?” Diluc said with a sarcastic tone.

“Oho? Have you figured out something already that you are so confident with yourself?~”

“Nothing yet, unfortunately... My Informants could not get as much information as I would want them to. ”

“Is that so… honestly, I find it so sickening! People are vanishing without a single trace… how awful…”
Lisa sighed as she continued investigating the letter.

After a while, she finally finished deciphering the letter.

She handed the paper with the translation to Master Diluc:

“If you want your loved one’s life speared, I dare you to find me.”

Diluc’s heart sank “...A loved one? Is that all it said?”

“Correct. That is all there is written in this letter. I wish I could have been of more help to you Mr. Diluc.” Lisa replied.

“Huh…”
Diluc exhaled a sigh when, suddenly – he was hit with realisation. A shiver ran down his spine as it dawned upon him: 

A loved one… 

oh… 

oh no.

“Miss Lisa, do you know where Sir Kaeya Alberich is now?” Diluc asked Lisa, seemingly concerned.

“I- I’m afraid not. he left the city a while back…” she mumbled

“Does the acting Grandmaster Jean know of this?”

“I believe she does.” 

Diluc walked away in a hurry. He was struggling to catch his breath when he finally got to Jean’s office.

“Diluc!” Miss Jean Gunnhildr yelped in surprise. 

“What is the matter?” she asked as they sat down on the sofa. 

“Where is my little brother?!” Diluc was stressed.

“Oh… Kaeya…” she mumbled

“Did he also disappear?”

“We’re doing our best to find him…”

“Why wasn't I the first to get noticed of his disappearance??” 

“I deeply apologise… since you're not one of the Knights anymore, I couldn’t simply-”

At that moment, Diluc stood up and left before Jean could finish her sentence .

As he could hardly form a thought, he decided to head to the tavern while he’s

still in town. Maybe making drinks will do him some good.

Or, maybe he just hoped that it was all nothing but a bad dream – surely, Kaeya is in there drinking himself, silly as usual… Right?

He let Charles the bartender go home, and replaced him.

It's all just a bad dream…

right?

Chapter Text

A sound of a meowing kitten was heard outside of Kaeya's kitchen window. It was Haiim, his loyal pet. Kaeya adopted him at the Windblume Festival that year, and had trained him to deliver messages from his home to the Knights of Favonius headquarters and vice versa. 

Kaeya was about to finish cooking a fish when he heard Haiim's cries. The man opened the window, and Haiim quickly jumped onto the countertop. The freshly made fish took notice on him, and he attempted to devour it- when Kaeya snatched him into his arms and said:

"Ah~ not so fast, young one!"

Kaeya noticed a letter attached to the kitten’s leg. He removed it, and gave him a piece of the fish. Haiim expressed a cheerful sound.

The letter was signed by none other than Jean. Kaeya carefully read it…

"Oh, now that's interesting," he whispered to himself. 

The situation was no news to him. It was only a matter of time until Jean would order him to join the investigation – not that he didn't start before that. He had a good share of intel from his trusted Informant - Vile.

Yet, why didn't he take action before the command as he normally does?

Kaeya quickly finished his meal, and began preparing to go speak with Jean before doing anything else…

Kaeya stood outside of the headquarters and took a deep breath. He headed towards the Fountain Plaza.

As he approached the crafting bench, he was hit with a surprise; it was Sucrose who was standing by, rather than Timaeus. Though he did not expect that, he was glad it was the case. 

"Why, if it isn't Sucrose! Quite stunning seeing you here~" Kaeya expressed joyfully. It made Sucrose nervous, as usual:

"O–oh, hello Sir Kaeya… Unfortunately, Timaeus…" she paused. "He suddenly disappeared… I couldn't find him anywhere. Sir Albedo is in Dragonspine too… "
Sucrose mumbled, which made Kaeya raise an eyebrow.

"When did you last see Timaeus?" he questioned the frightened lady.

"Yesterday, at noon" she replied almost instantly.

"Does Albedo know of this?"

"... Not yet." 

Kaeya held his chin in thought…

He took out a pen and paper, and began writing something on it. He then gave the paper to Sucrose.

"Can I trust you to deliver this letter to Albedo?"

Sucrose felt seemingly anxious. Kaeya could notice her face turning red.

She nodded in acceptance, nevertheless.

"Now then, Sucrose. Did anything strange happen yesterday?"

Sucrose became even more baffled. "N–No, not at all!"

"Do you recall any of the customers who came here by then?"

"Mainly the Knights." 

Kaeya smiled: "Thank you for your time, Sucrose."

He swiftly walked away. Sucrose was left stunned.

Kaeya came home.

He sat down at his desk, and wrote one last letter. He called Haiim in, and tied the letter to his leg. Haiim meowed as Kaeya opened the wooden door. The cat sprinted out of it energetically.

Kaeya hastily stuffed some supplies into a shoulder bag, slung it over his shoulder, and dashed out of his house in a hurry.

He left the city gates, not to be seen again.

Just as if he had disappeared into thin air.

It was but a few days after the beloved Sir Kaeya went missing.

Grandmaster Jean ordered a batch of the Knight’s troops to search for the Cavalry Captain. She sent them to many regions of the land; some even to Dragonspine and Old Mondstadt…

Jean did her best to reassure the public that their dear Knight Captain is currently being searched for, and will be found, no citizen could be helped but feel devastated and defeated. As the days went by, the legend of the Nachzeher became a true sick and twisted nightmare to the people of Mondstadt. 

Kaeya's disappearance was one of the least expected outcomes. While the man does not have any blood-related relatives, the city of freedom loved him dearly.

Diluc, however, loved him more than any of them combined; though clearly, he avoids expressing it.

Kaeya was all he had left. He was his one and only brother. 

Now – he was gone. 

His little brother he once swore to protect—was now all gone .

Chapter Text

It was late in the evening—long after dark fell upon the city of freedom. Master Diluc was busy cleaning glasses that the customers drank from, but the sickening thoughts of his brother vanishing did not fail to drive him mad.

He thought to himself: Why would he care so much for the man he grew so distant from? Their happiest days are long gone, and all that's left is the memories of their youth – Oh, how he missed those carefree days, back when his Father was still alive and he was calling Sir Kaeya his “ little brother ”.

But now that Kaeya is gone—he has no more family left.

He failed him.

Heck – he had failed everyone. 

The tavern was closed, desolate, and shrouded with dead silence. Only the audible sound of wind knocking on the windows could be heard.

Suddenly, the sound of a creek echoed from the second floor. Diluc could have sworn that he kicked out every last one of the drunkards.

Perhaps he had missed only but one.

Usually, the only drunkard that was still in the tavern this late hour was none other than his little brother. A glimpse of hope had sparked in him; that maybe Jean, Lisa, and Kaeya were just pranking him, and that it was all just one horrible and twisted nightmare that soon will end.

Bearing expectations, Diluc quickly hurried up the stairs to the second floor; yet, when he reached it – he had seen nothing but the sight of a few messy chairs.

The redhead searched tirelessly every corner of the floor, but it has led to no avail. He found not even a single clue of a person being there after closing time. 

He let out a groan and held his head in pain. All this was making him feel dizzy. Maybe he was just tired, and started hearing things.

Diluc did not realise how worn out he’ve become until that moment, and went back to the first floor to finally finish cleaning those damn never-ending dishes. 

Half an hour passed since the young gentleman continued with his cleaning duties. Diluc decided to call it a day, and started heading back home – to his winery.

He could really use Adelinde’s advice and comfort.

After all, she was the mother he never had.  

It was pitch-black dark outside when Diluc left the tavern.

He walked down the gloomy street, when he started to feel an alarming feeling of being watched .

It was as if he could feel that the wind blowing the leaves on the trees weren't the only thing accompanying him at that moment.

Diluc stopped walking, and began scouting around his surroundings; to ensure no one was spying on him. A sound of rustling leaves on a tree nearby had caught his attention, He carefully drew his claymore and approached said tree. 

“Who dares stalk me?”  The troubled redhead shouted.

There was no reply.

Diluc decided to try and climb up to confirm his suspicions. Upon reaching for the tree , an anxiously loud gasp was heard.

He was right; Someone was, in fact, watching him! He reached his hand into the tree and grabbed the spy by the neck:

“You scum!” Diluc was filled with rage.

The spy screamed in fear.

the voice of this person… It was just some youngster!

He had curly brown hair, tan skin, and dark eyes. He was wearing a news-boy type of hat and a long jacket. He also possessed an Electro vision.

Diluc threw him off the tree. The teen-aged boy yelped in pain as he hit the ground.

Diluc followed him, tossing himself to the ground:

“Ow! Ow! Such a big meanie!!”

“Who are you?” Diluc got close to the lad, and pointed his claymore at him –

Which resulted in another scream;

“WAHHHH!!!! THE MEAN VAMPIRE HAD CAUGHT ME!!! I AM GOING TO DIE!!!” 

“If you want your life spared, then give me your name this instance . I will not ask again.”

“T- Theseus?” He was out of breath.

“What are your intentions? Who sent you!?”

Theseus began blabbering:

“First of all, I sent myself! I am very much my own boss!

Second of all, Sir Kaeya told me all about you,

 VAMPIRE!”

“You drink innocent citizens’ blood for a living, huh?” The boy pointed a finger at the confused winery owner;

“Pardon me, what nonsense has Kaeya fed you with? But more importantly, what is your relation to him?” Diluc questioned Theseus and sheathed his claymore back.

Theseus was finally able to get up:

“Dunno dear gentleman, maybe I would've told you – if you were nicer to me, that is.” Theseus crossed his hands in irritation.

Diluc held his chin in thought, then a morbid realisation hit him:

“Are you his secret son, perhaps?”

Theseus was stunned. 

He continued: “both of you look ever so slightly related, and seem to share many personality traits…” 

“Gah! I’m his student for archons’ sake! That’s it!” Theseus finally confessed. 

Diluc sighed in relief that Kaeya wasn't keeping that kind of secret from him. God knows what guilt the redhead would’ve faced if he knew he had given his beloved brother’s son a beating.

Not that insulting his student is any better.

“I see, apologies for being hard on you. Spying on people isn't exactly nice, you know. Why have you done that?” 

“Hmph, I assumed you were the Nachzehrer based on Sir Kaeya’s description of you: You’re always so aggressive and angry, drink blood, eat people… And most importantly—always act at night!” Theseus explained, with every accusation taking one year off Diluc’s lifespan. 

The poor man held his head once more. 

“I assure you Theseus, I wouldn't harm people – especially not Sir Kaeya. ” not again.

Theseus raised an eyebrow: “I somewhat doubt that - got my butt handed to me a couple of minutes ago, but sure.”

“I’ll make it up to you sometime”, he promised the boy and patted his head.

Theseus wiggled in embarrassment.

“By the way, young one. What does Kaeya teach you?”

“Uh, he helps me develop my investigation skills. He says I have great potential!” He claimed.

“Oh, so you want to become a knight in the investigation team Sir Albedo captains?” curiosity appeared.

Theseus shook his head: “No, I’m interested in being an independent detective. I have already solved a great amount of cases on my own. I am on one actually – to find Sir Kaeya.”

Diluc suddenly felt out of breath: “Do you know where he is?”, He held Theseus’ shoulders in hope.

“Not yet”, Theseus replied. It made Diluc immensely disappointed.

“However…” He continued: “I am sure he is alive somewhere” , he expressed in full confidence.

Diluc’s eyes shined once more. It’s just what he needed to hear. How could he even lose faith in his own brother? It is Kaeya after all – he would never go down so easily. “You are right, I will assist you in finding him.” 

Theseus’ gaze became serious for once. It surprised Diluc:

“Alright, my investigation partner.”

the boy then softly smiled, as if he suddenly knew all about Diluc. He reached out to shake his hand.

“You know, we may want to try and find other people as well… right?”

Diluc nodded in acceptance.

“Where are you going with this?”

Theseus started acting silly again: “Are you familiar with the boy that is always sitting on the bridge? He had also disappeared.”

“Oh, how unfortunate… the nun that takes care of him is probably worried sick about him.” Diluc crossed his hands.

“I am very upset that he's gone, actually. It was quite comforting to know that this little bird-feeder is always there. I even thought he was Immortal at some point!” 

The winery owner grinned: “Stop talking nonsense, Theseus.”

“Fine, fine, alright… Meet me tomorrow morning, next to the city gates. We’ll begin our search for Sir Kaeya.”

Theseus appeared wise again.

Diluc agreed, and the two gentlemen parted ways, returning home safely.

Chapter Text

At the crack of dawn, Master Diluc was already on his way to the city gates – where he agreed to meet with Theseus, the young lad.

The redhead was nervously waiting for his arrival. It was of utmost importance for him to find his brother, for he could put his mind at ease. 

Theseus arrived shortly after. He was greeted with a mischievous smile. 

“Why hello there, master Diluc~” Diluc rubbed Theseus’s shoulder in reply. 

The teen pulled out a sheet of cloth from his pocket.

“...What is this?”

“Guess!”

Diluc snatched the cloth from the hands of the kid. It rang a bell for him:

“Does this… belong to Kaeya? …How did you manage to find this?”

Theseus cleared his throat:

“ Ahem —that is of no importance!” 

Diluc raised an eyebrow, but shrugged Theseus’s questionable ways off. 

“So, then… what’s the plan?” the redhead asked.

“Well, I thought it would be best to let the dogs lead the way to Sir Kaeya; since we don't have many clues to go off by.”

“And where will we fetch said dogs?”

“Oh, don't you worry about it!” Theseus said, dragging Diluc outside the city.

As they made their way, Diluc could not help but feel uneasy of how little information Theseus had given him. Perhaps he is hiding something..?

" Theseus ." Diluc muttered anxiously.

"Yes? Need anything, mister?" the youngster turned to look at him. 

"Where are we going exactly?" 

"Wolvendom."

"Why, Are we going to catch some wild wolves?" Diluc jokes.

“Oh no, not at all!”, he giggled.

“You see, I just so happen to know a certain guy that takes very good care of a couple doggos… and coincidentally, they're trained quite well to do all this 'finding' stuff~" Theseus explained, as if he didn't just try to avoid the question.

“Oh? And what is this fine gentleman’s name?”, Diluc asked in curiosity.

“Dimitri!”, he answered enthusiastically.

"Could you tell me more about this 'Dimitri' of yours?" That man has sparked his interest. What a familiar name it is…

"This guy is a former Fatui. He left a short while after, and decided to live in the forest of Wolvendom.”

“...And that’s just about as much as I know.” Theseus shrugged his shoulders.

"A former Fatui? How do you know him ?" Diluc questioned - growing suspicious.

"Oh, it doesn't matter really! Don't you trust me?~" He expressed with his endearing puppy face upon the redhead's frowning face.

Diluc sighed softly, and ruffled Theseus's hair.

"H- hey!! What's that for!!"

"Don't you like head pats?"

"You're messing my hair up, that's not a pat!!" Theseus complained, only making Diluc chuckle in amusement.

"* Ahem!* Anyways~" the lad continued: "Do you have any leads on our case yet?"

"I found a broken shoelace, if that helps…." Diluc sighed.

Theseus squinted in confusion.

"Hm~ do you at least know why they call the killer a ‘ Nachzeher ’?", asked Theseus.

"That would be because the incidents occur only at night."

"Not only that, but there’s a rumour that the disappearances take place only in the area of the Cathedral."

Diluc nodded in agreement.

"So it's a vampire-zombie that attacks people that want to go to the cathedral. Isn't it weird?" Theseus laughed.

"Perhaps that Nachzeher hates the anemo archon."

"Well, that's one theory." 

They both continued to chat; even though Diluc always claims to hate idle chit-chats. This time, he could let it pass.

The redhead never had a chance to talk with Theseus before, even though he did see him a couple of times hitting the streets; always seemingly in a hurry.

It would be a lie to say that Theseus does not remind him of Kaeya. It brings him comfort in these frightening times.

As the two were drawing closer to the forest, they could sense the wind whistling through the tall trees; just as if it was guiding them along their Investigation…

With each step they’d take, the crunching of the leaves could be heard underneath their feet.

No one can argue of Mondstadt's breathtaking nature; the chirping birds, scampering squirrels, and the beautiful flowers…

Theseus regrets not carrying food with him. He’d love feeding the tiny animals.

The trees blocked out the sun, making the environment ever so cooler.

Both adventurers felt a sudden moment of peace, as they made their way into the vast Forest of Wolvendom…

Shortly after entering, they bumped into a couple of Treasure hoarders. Theseus immediately turned over to Diluc – who clenched his jaw, looking at the hoarders in a hostile glare.

As the Treasure hoarders began walking towards the small group, Diluc quickly drew his claymore.

“It was you , wasn't it?!” Diluc shouted furiously.

“What are you–” Diluc’s weapon struck the hoarder’s jaw, as the deplorable individual began his plea.

Theseus was quick to flee the scene, as to not be in Diluc’s way.

He hid behind a rock he found nearby, and carefully listened to the clashes and his surroundings.

The rest of the hoarders have begun fighting back.

“Stop it with your petty nonsense! It were YOU who took him away!”, charged Diluc as he was fighting them off.

“W-We didn't do anything! Swear!”, pleaded a struggling Treasure Hoarder; his eyes begging for mercy.

“Heck, we arrived here because we heard of his disappearance!”

“Liars!” — Diluc clashed once more.

“You admitted it yourselves when you left me that letter!”

“..W-What?”

“What kind of fool are you?!” yelled the bloody Hoarder, looking angry and confused.

“You even left that coin of yours!”, Diluc fended.

“You’ll regret ever setting your hands on my brother!”

Diluc’s rage knew no bounds nor mercy. He defeated them all with but a single swing of his claymore.

Theseus observed with dire admiration, as the redhead plunged his weapon to the ground.

Though Diluc’s strength was a mesmerising sight, he couldn't help but feel a slight suspicion over his fellow companion. It was clear he withheld a critical detail in their investigation.

Diluc was heavily breathing. It took him a few seconds to reset, and realise his little sidekick was out of sight. 

“Theseus?” Diluc yelled out.

“I’m over here!”, he replied in distance.

He got up on both his legs to appear in sight.

Diluc menacingly walked towards Theseus with a fighting look on his face, giving him shivers down his spine.

Maybe it was a bad idea to respond immediately…

“Catch this.”

“W-Whoa! You almost cut me!!”

Diluc threw the claymore to Theuseus as he began stretching. He felt as if his eyes were about to pop out from the weight of the weapon, and his face turning to all colours of rainbow from lack of oxygen. 

Diluc was done stretching, and was surprised when he looked at Theseus – who appeared as if he was seconds from passing out.

Diluc took the weapon from Theseus’s hands, making the poor lad succumb to the ground in exhaustion.

“How do you plan on being a professional detective in the future? You can’t even hold a claymore for more than a few mere seconds!”, he scolded.

Theseus layed on the ground, angrily murmuring quiet nonsense, wearing his hat upon his face in embarrassment.

Diluc nagged him with his leg to snap him out of it.

”Get up already. We need to continue moving.”

“NO!” , Theseus protested.

“And why’s that?”—It made Diluc raise an eyebrow. 

Theseus sat down, and asked of Diluc to do the same.

“We can’t rest now – there’s no time to lose! Every second is precious, don’t you get that?!” Diluc looked furious. 

“You need to calm down.”

“I do not.”

Diluc attempted to walk away, but was quickly stopped by Theseus who held onto his leg.

“Pwease, Mr. Diluc?” asked the youngster in a needy voice and sparkling eyes.

Succumbing to cuteness, Diluc sat down.

Theseus drew closer to Diluc’s face with a dire glare, almost staring into the poor man’s soul: 

“I know what you’re hiding. Give it to me this instant. ”

Diluc's eyes opened wide, both in shock and confusion; “What do you mean?”

“Your secrets!” Theseus demanded.

Diluc crossed his hands as Theseus continued;

“So you are hiding information from me, what letter were you talking about back there?”

Diluc finally understood what Theseus was trying to say.

“You are indeed correct”, the redhead admitted.

“I am, in fact, in possession of a letter – of which I did not reveal to you.”

Theseus narrowed his eyes, awaiting for Diluc to further indulge.

“I have yet to tell you about what happened two days ago.“

Diluc reached for his pocket, pulling out a letter attached to a Silver Raven Insignia.

Theseus enthusiastically listened as Diluc recalled the events preceding his discovery of the Insignia.

He reached his hand in pursuit of both items; “May I take a look?”

Diluc handed them over.

Theseus observed the items and pulled out a small knife and broke the insignia in half. The insignia contained a small map marked with red dots and dates beside them. One mark looked different and  was far from the rest – outsider of the city.

“I then referred to the Library'', he proceeded, “asking Lisa to help me decipher the letter; and, well… I was informed of Sir Kaeya’s disappearance. Quite suddenly so, too.

Jean refused to tell me anything on that rega-”

Theseus burst out laughing like an unhinged idiot.

Once more, he did not fail to weird Diluc out.

He placed a hand on him, and was immediately slapped off.

“Why are you-”

“ You're such a looneyyyy! ” – He was teared up with laughter.

“I beg your pardon?” 

“Oh sorry, sorry!” The detective wiped the tears off his eyes.

Theseus explained: “The letter you received was written by none other than our precious sir Kaeya.”

Diluc shook his head: “What do you mean?”

“You see, the time of his disappearance aligns perfectly with the time you received the letter. Not only that – but he also left quite the suspicious-looking Raven Insignia as well~ ”

“Not only that, but why would the killer mark the places he committed the crime in? ”

Diluc paused for a second, unable to comprehend.

”Continue”.

“Do you not think that Jean’s behaviour was strange as well? Surely, if something would have happened to Kaeya – it is you who would have been first to know.”

“Now that you mention it… Lisa was acting rather strange, as well.”

Theseus thought out-loud: “Well, I find this to all be planned. They are probably trying to lure the killer somehow.”

“So you mean… Kaeya is but a bait?”

Theseus nodded, adding: ”Maybe they need you to be with him in case things go south? I’m not sure yet.”

Chapter Text

Theseus spread the map wide-open on the ground, pointing to marks on it;

“If you pay attention to the way these marks are scattered, alongside the dates beside them..-”

“Yes – it appears as if the victims were all targeted in the area of the cathedral and the graveyard. That’s nothing new.” Diluc completed the sentence.

“So the rumors were true… No wonder the citizens believe it to be some kind of Nachzeher.” Theseus chuckled.

“That’s odd though, isn’t it? The Knights are usually very high on patrol around these parts…”

Theseus nodded.

He further pointed at the distant mark placed in the area between Mondstadt, Liyue, and Dragonspine.

“Huh. Well, that confirms my assumption.”

Diluc raised an eyebrow. “How so?”

“It’s the only mark without a date beside it. As if, it’s to mark a location rather than an event – unlike those found in the city.”

“How are you so sure it’s Kaeya’s hideout out there? Couldn’t it be… Anything, really?” Diluc questioned Theseus.

“I’m not sure myself, either. But we have to go off some assumptions if we wanna proceed…”

“Besides, doesn’t this just pique your curiosity, anyways?”

“‘Tis the odd one out, I guess…” Diluc took interest in the suspicious mark as well.

“Sure enough. We’ll head there.”

Theseus began folding the map, put it in his pocket, then laid flat on the ground – looking at the green leaves and the blue sky.

“ One must wonder why Kaeya, of all, was chosen to become bait… ”

“Enough dying, Theseus. Come, we have a long road ahead.”

Mildly infuriated, he got up – knowing a puppy face won’t save this time around.

“Master Diluc, why are you in such a hurry?”.

“I must reunite with Kaeya as soon as possible. He deserves quite the beating for pulling on my nerves, if you ask me.”

“Dammit” , thought Theseus. If Diluc finds Sir Kaeya now, he might not have a teacher by tomorrow…

Theseus had a brilliant plan. He could use his oldest trick in the sleeve, his smartass card! to-

“And no, Theseus. Don’t even think about pulling out your smartass card.”

“Awh”.

“Still, you’re right”, Diluc sighed.

“Do let us rest for a while. We could use some more energy for our trip.“

“YIPEEEEE”

Theseus cheerfully pulled on Diluc’s sleeves, guiding him back to sit on the ground.

Diluc gently stroked Theseus’ hair.

He politely moved it away.

“We still need to get those dogs. There's no way we can find Kaeya otherwise…”

“Unless you have a good sense of smell yourself, master Diluc!”

The redhead laughed, and felt relieved that this case was handled by two good hands. 

As the sun went down, Theseus and Diluc began preparing for a stay. 

Diluc ordered Theseus to go look around for some wood they could use to make a fire. While he was out, Diluc further thought on Theseus’ theory on Kaeya’s whereabouts. The possibility that Kaeya was not in immediate danger after all put him in great relief – although the uncertainty was still there. What if that ‘Nachzeher’ was to find Kaeya before he does? 

Diluc’s gaze fell back on Theseus – who returned with an armful of thick branches. Theseus approached Diluc and dropped all the branches on the floor.

“Here!” Theseus shouted cheerfully.

He then turned to look at Diluc, who had a rather worried expression again.

“What’s on your mind again, master Diluc?” 

“The fact that we don’t know exactly when we are supposed to find Kaeya..-”

“Don't sweat it! Do you not trust sir Kaeya? All we have to do is simply follow his plan!”, Theseus assured. Diluc smiled faintly and nodded: “You're right”.

As Diluc reached to light the wood, a sudden clap of thunder echoed through the air. The sky darkened, and rain began to pour down heavily. 

Theseus quickly grabbed the wood, and the two men sought refuge under the overhang of jagged cliffs, finding some protection from the storm. Soaked from the downpour, Diluc peeled off his jacket.

“I managed to grab some wood,” Theseus said, holding up a small bundle with a faint smile. 

Diluc knelt beside the gathered wood, his hands steady despite the cold. With a strike of flint, he coaxed a small flame to life, shielding it from the wind. 

He carefully nurtured the flame until it grew slowly, casting a warm glow that flickered against the rocky walls, pushing back the chill of the storm.

Diluc placed his jacket near the fire, hoping the warmth would help it dry off. The edges of the fabric began to soften and release a faint, comforting scent as the flames gently dried it out.

Theseus glanced at Diluc, noticing the fatigue in his eyes: “You should lie down and get some rest”, he gently suggested. “After everything that happened today, you’ve truly earned it.”

Diluc shook his head. “I appreciate it, but… Really, you should be the one to rest. I’ll keep the fire going and stand watch.”

Theseus hesitated, but eventually agreed – knowing there was no changing his mind. “Alright, but please don’t push yourself too hard.” 

Theseus laid down on the rough, rocky ground, feeling the cold jagged stones beneath him digging into his back and sides - making every shift and movement a sharp reminder of how uncomfortable the makeshift bed was. He pulled his long jacket tightly around himself, trying to find some comfort in its warmth as he settled in for the night. 

As Diluc gazed into the dancing flames, his thoughts wandered back to simpler times. He recalled sneaking out of the house at night with Kaeya, their laughter echoing through the Dawn Winery’s grape fields. They would set up a small grill they’d fashioned from whatever they could find, roasting vegetables over the open flame and enjoying the warmth of the fire under the starlit sky. The memory brought a wistful smile to Diluc’s face – a brief escape from the weight of the present.

As the night wore on, so did it get colder. Theseus shivered uncontrollably, even with the fire besides him. He tossed and turned relentlessly, struggling to find a position that offered any real comfort. The cold of the rough stone prevented him from falling asleep.

Diluc noticed his great discomfort, and offered his now dried-out coat. “Here. Just take it.”

Theseus refused, seeing the shirt Diluc was to be left wearing: “Hey! You have short sleeves there, right? Won’t you turn into an ice cube?”

Diluc shrugged, quite unbothered. “My Pyro Vision can handle the cold quite well for me. As for you…”

Theseus did not buy this. “In contrast, if I fell into electrifying water… Would I then survive?!”

Diluc rolled his eyes, suppressing a grin. “Theseus, no.”

He continued to mumble through chattering teeth. “Maybe if we’ll build a giant stove, we’ll warm up... or perhaps we could find that dragon and—”

Diluc firmly cut him off. “Ugh, enough with your nonsense already. Here, just put on the coat.” He draped the warm garment over Theseus’s shoulders, tucking it in securely. “Just try to focus on staying warm, alright?” Theseus nodded.

Diluc couldn’t help but notice the dark circles under Theseus’s eyes. Theseus must have struggled with falling asleep countless times before. He sat down beside him, his expression softening. “If you can’t sleep, then let us talk instead.”

As Theseus’s eyes grew heavy, Diluc continued to talk softly. “You know, I’ve been thinking… How did you end up meeting Kaeya, anyways?”

Theseus shifted slightly, his voice barely above a whisper. “Kaeya found me when I was in a rough spot. He took me in and looked after me when I needed it most.” He paused, a hint of a smile on his lips. “He was always the one who made sure I was okay.”

Diluc nodded as his gaze saddened. “I’m glad he was there for you.” 

If only Kaeya was there for him too, when Crepus died.

Theseus gave a tired nod, the warmth and comfort of the conversation helping him drift closer to slumber.

Diluc recalled how it was Kaeya who would always come see him – and cuddle him when he most needed it, holding him close until the warmth and security lulled him into a peaceful sleep.

With a soft smile, he decided to offer some of that comfort back to Theseus. He gently pulled the jacket aside and nudged Theseus closer wrapping his arms around him in a gentle hug. 

Theseus tensed at first, resisting the unexpected closeness. “I’m fine,” he muttered, trying to wiggle free.

Diluc chuckled, holding firm. “Just accept it.”

After a moment of resistance, Theseus sighed and relaxed into Diluc’s embrace. The warmth and closeness began to work their magic, and he gradually let go of his hesitation. With a final contented sigh, he surrendered to sleep, the comfort of Diluc’s hug easing him into a peaceful rest.

Chapter Text

Morning light filtered through the rocky overhang, gently waking up the two men. Theseus’s weary eyes fluttered open to find Diluc’s face inches from his own, staring directly at him. Theseus quickly stood up, tossing Diluc’s jacket back to him with a muffled “Thank you”.

Diluc slipped the jacket back on, adjusting it comfortably.

“Are you hungry?” he asked, looking over at Theseus.
Theseus nodded, rubbing his eyes as he stretched. “Yeah, I could definitely use something to eat.”

“I know there are usually a bunch of boars northeast from here”.

“Sounds good”, Theseus replied. “While you go hunting, I’ll head over to Dimitri’s and bring back the dogs.”

Diluc nodded, approving of the plan. “Be careful out there. I’ll meet you back here with some fresh meat on the stove.”

Theseus stepped out into the crisp morning air, and started his search through Wolvendom. The dense forest was a familiar landscape, but he kept his eyes peeled for Dimitri’s house—a modest hut nestled somewhere among the trees.

He wandered through the forest, his footsteps crunching softly on the fallen leaves. The search for Dimitri’s place became a quiet, solitary walk – but he moved with purpose, determined to find the dogs and return to meet Diluc.

Theseus’s stomach growled in protest and the sight of ripe berries and wolfhooks only intensified his cravings. Unable to resist, he reached out and picked some of the berries, their sweet juiciness offering a brief but welcome relief.

He ate the berries with a sense of urgency, savoring the burst of flavor that momentarily eased his hunger. Recognizing the potential value of wolfhooks, he carefully collected a few, knowing they could be useful later for stopping blood or providing a mild painkiller. The small stash of wolfhooks went into his bag alongside the berries, a practical choice for both immediate and future needs.

Theseus picked up some more berries, as he suddenly heard a familiar voice calling his name.

“Theseus!”

He looked up to see him swiftly approaching. “What are you doing out here in Wolvendom?” Dimitri asked, his eyebrow raised.

“I’ve been searching for you. I need one of your dogs for an investigation.”

Dimitri’s curiosity deepened. “An investigation? What’s going on?”

“I’m helping Diluc with something,” Theseus explained. “We’re tracking some leads, and having one of your dogs would really help us out.”

Dimitri nodded, understanding the urgency. “Alright, I can help with that.”  He led Theseus through the forest towards his hut. a simple log cabin tucked among the trees. The steep roof was covered with dark shingles, and smoke drifted from the chimney. Warm light shone through the windows, making it look cozy and welcoming.

Inside, Dimitri quickly prepared some tea while Theseus sat at the wooden table, covered with a plain cloth. The walls were lined with hunting tools, showing Dimitri’s life in the wild. 

Theseus took a sip of the tea, appreciating the warmth. “I was hoping to take Misha with me. She’s great for tracking.”

Dimitri nodded thoughtfully. “Misha’s a good choice, but I’d recommend taking another dog as well, just in case.” He paused, then added, “Kalbaska would be a good companion for her.”

Theseus raised an eyebrow. “Kalbaska too?”

“Yes,” Dimitri said firmly. “I’ll let you take both, but you’ll only pay for the service of one dog. It’s a precaution, and I want you to be well-prepared.”

Theseus smiled uneasily but gratefully. “Thanks, Dimitri. I really appreciate it.”

After finishing his tea, Theseus left the cabin with Kalbaska and Misha, feeling well-equipped for the task ahead.

As Theseus returned to the camp with Misha and Kalbaska, the delicious aroma of the meat cooking over the fire quickly caught their attention. The two dogs leaped and barked excitedly, tails wagging furiously as they sniffed the air.

Theseus did not, however, share their excitement. He looked a bit worn out, his focus more on the task at hand than on the meal. 

“I see you got them dogs, Theseus”, handing him over a chunk of meat.

“Hm.”

Theseus firmly held the meat up to eye level—his thought now solely concentrated on the product at hand. He tilted it slightly, examining the texture and marbling of it. His fingers pressed against the meat, testing its firmness as he leaned in closer. He then inhaled it deeply through his nose.

"Look at this," Theseus muttered, more to himself than to Diluc. "The fat's unevenly distributed, some spots tougher than others, and… what’s this? A sinew running through the center, making everything tougher than it should ever be!"

Finally, he took one, small, deliberate bite. Slowly chewing, his face expressed great contemplation.
He then gave a small, subtle shake of head – his expression one of great disappointment.

“Mm,” Theseus said, swallowing. “A bit overcooked, lacking in balance of taste. Could use a touch of seasoning, perhaps. Maybe a generous pinch of salt.”
”Not bad, but certainly not what I’d expect. Your presentation could use some work, Diluc.”

He handed the remaining piece back. A faint smirk tugged at the corner of his lips.

Diluc blankly stared at Theseus. A literal deadpan expression smeared over his face.

“..Okay, maybe I will have this back. I am kinda hungry… heh”

Theseus tucked back the piece he had just returned, gently nomming on it ‘till his stomach deemed it sufficient.

He later fed the rest of it to Misha and Kalbaska.

Theseus turned his attention to the next steps of their investigation. His exhaustion was evident as he began preparing for what lay ahead.

Theseus then pulled out a small sheet of cloth, carefully offering it to Misha and Kalbaska. The dogs sniffed it thoroughly, their ears perking up as they caught the scent.

The investigation had officially begun.

Chapter Text

Misha and Kalbaska advanced confidently toward the foot of Dragonspine, leading the way with no hesitation. Closely following behind them were Theseus and Diluc – their breaths puffing white in the increasingly frigid air. With each step they took, so the cold deepened—and the shadows of the towering mountain range stretched over the landscape, darkening the path ahead. Jagged peaks capped with snow pierced the sky, and the distant howl of wind echoed off the cliffs.

As they approached the base of the mountain, the scenery shifted from thick forests to rugged terrain. The ground was covered in a mix of frost and rocks everywhere, and patches of icy snow clung stubbornly to the earth. Misha and Kalbaska pressed forward—their noses low to the ground—guiding them to the exact spot marked on the map.

“Ahahaa! My suspicions were right on the mark!” Theseus exclaimed, with a mix of triumph and relief in his voice, rubbing his nose with a slight grin of satisfaction.

Diluc looked at him, shifting from curiosity to genuine admiration. “Well, would you look at that,” he muttered, almost in awe. “The magnificent Theseus has connected the dots?” His tone carried a hint of sarcasm, but there was no denying the respect behind it.

A sudden rustling in the brush then caught the two’s attention. Before they could react, a group of hilichurls and abyss mages sprang from their hiding places.

“W-WHERE DID THEY COME FROM?!” Theseus shouted, his voice pitching in surprise like a startled bird.

Both had barely the time to draw their weapons before they were ambushed by hilichurls and abyss mages.

Kalbaska growled, while Misha barked frantically; both dogs were clearly terrified of the approaching monsters. In a sudden burst of bravery, Kalbaska lunged forward and sank its teeth into the nearest hilichurl, attacking with fierce determination. 

Theseus’ body stiffened, his fists clenched at his sides. The loud sounds overwhelmed him with panic, his gaze was fixated on the dogs and then shifted back to the monsters that were advancing quickly towards them – preparing to attack. In a sharp, almost desperate motion, he turned to Diluc, eyes wide and silently pleading for direction—for a reassurance of sorts amidst the overwhelming situation. His breathing quickened, each inhale sharp and uneven as he watched Diluc, silently waiting for him to take the lead amidst the chaos.

Diluc’s eyes locked with Theseus’, a steady calmness in his stare. With a quick nod, he offered his silent confidence. He knew exactly what to do.

Without hesitation, Diluc charged at the hilichurls, cutting through the ones that had been striking Kalbaska. His blade flashed with pyro as he swiftly cleared a path. “Theseus!” he shouted, “Get the dogs out of here—take them somewhere safe!”

Theseus gasped, and pulled Kalbaska away just in time. He began making a run for it, with every ounce of energy he had left—and ran as fast as his body would physically let him. He held the dogs tightly, his heart pounding wildly in his chest as he weaved through the trees and snow-covered rocks. 

The Cryo Abyss Mage’s icicles sliced relentlessly through the air, forcing him to weave and dodge between the trees to avoid them, narrowly escaping their deadly strike. Every near miss sent a fresh wave of terror down his spine, the freezing air biting at his skin, as if the cold itself was trying to seize him too.

The world around him became a blur, his focus solely on staying ahead of the ice that chased him, each shard threatening to be his last.

Theseus, meanwhile, tripped on a rock. A sudden, sharp pain shot up his leg. He bellowed as one of the icicles slammed into the back of his lower leg, the ice slicing through muscle and skin. His stride faltered, and he stumbled, barely catching himself before hitting the ground. Pain throbbed in his leg, each step he tried to take now agonizing. 

Theseus winced in pain, feeling the sharp sting from the wound on his leg. His mind raced as he tried to catch his breath, knowing he couldn't keep running like this.

He limped behind a tree, dragging his injured leg behind him. He gently set the dogs down, his hands trembling from the cold and adrenaline. The dogs huddled close and stood behind him, tails tucked between their legs, whining pitifully as they stared at the looming mage. Their fear was palpable, and it twisted something deep inside Theseus. He couldn’t let these poor creatures be hurt.

Forcing himself to stand tall despite the pain, Theseus turned to face the Abyss Mage. His leg burned with every movement, but he gripped his sword tightly, determination settling in his chest. The mage floated menacingly toward him, icicles forming at its fingertips. 

“Fine,” he growled through gritted teeth, squaring his shoulders despite the pain. He glanced at the terrified animals, their trust in him clear in their wide, pleading eyes. “If you want to mess with us so badly,” he muttered, steadying his breath as he readied himself for the fight, “prepare to die.”

Theseus drew his sword in one swift motion, the blade surrounded by flashes of electricity along its edge. The sudden surge of power startled the Abyss Mage, who immediately conjured a shimmering ice shield around itself, layers of frost swirling to form a protective barrier.  Theseus’s eyes were locked on the mage, his grip tightening on the hilt of his sword as he prepared to break through the defense. 

Theseus lunged at the shield, striking with all the strength he could muster. Sparks of electro crackled on the icy barrier as the blade clashed against it, but his injured leg betrayed him. His wound burned as if it was set on fire, making it nearly impossible to plant his foot firmly. Each strike grew more labored, his body trembling with frustration as he struggled to maintain his balance. With every hit, the shield stood firm, and the pain only deepened.

The Abyss Mage seized its chance, conjuring another razor-sharp icicle and launching it at Theseus. His heart raced and with a quick, desperate leap, he dodged the projectile just in time. He fell to his knees - but before he could catch his breath, he saw another icicle hurtling toward the dogs. "Not happening!" Theseus shouted, surging forward. He threw himself in front of them, shoving the dogs out of the way as the icicle smashed into the earth, scattering shards of ice where they had been moments before.

Theseus’ blood boiled, his chest growing heavy as his eyes narrowed and his jaw clenched so tightly it hurt. His hands trembled, not from fear this time, but from the sheer intensity of his rage. He gripped his sword like he wanted to crush it in his fist. 

"You coward !" he spat, his voice rough with raw emotion. The image of the dogs nearly being struck fueled him further. He lunged at the mage's shield with reckless fury, his strikes powerful, and unrelenting. Each swing was driven by the thought of that cheap shot. 

He felt his body scream in pain, but he refused to let up. "You want to play dirty?!" he roared, his voice guttural as he slammed his blade into the shield one last time. The force of the blow was enough to send cracks splintering through the icy barrier before it shattered entirely, leaving the mage defenseless. 

Before the mage could even comprehend its broken shield, Theseus acted on pure instinct. He thrust his electro-infused sword forward and it plunged deep into the Abyss Mage's core, sending arcs of electricity surging through its body. The mage let out a high-pitched wail as the lightning danced across its body, frying it from within. 

Theseus’ eyes widened as the mage fell lifelessly at his feet. It was finally over.

He had won.

His breaths came in ragged, uneven gasps as the adrenaline began to fade.

…His legs had started to lose their strength.

Unwarned, a stabbing pain tore through his chest, forcing him to fall to his knees.

The world spun around him, his stomach lurched, and a rush of blood surged up his throat. He collapsed to the ground, a pool of dark red spreading beneath him. His breath growed weaker, as he closed his eyes.

Chapter Text

At the sight of Theseus’ sudden collapse, Misha rushed to his side, pressing a paw against his shoulder and nudging him as if to wake him up. Kalbaska let out a mournful whine, pacing nervously. Their eyes darted anxiously between each other and their fallen companion, desperate for any sign he was alright. 

“Oh, right… Diluc.”

The realization hit Theseus as he remembered the fight was still ongoing. He pushed himself back up, ignoring the agonizing pain in his wounded leg. His vision pulsed and blurred, but the brief rest had given him just enough strength to stand. With a shaky breath, he finally steadied himself, as dark drops of blood trailed down his shirt. 

He sighed.

Theseus lowered his gaze and kneeled on his other, healthier leg. His voice called soft;

“ Are you guys hurt? ”

Gently, he ran his hands over their fur, searching for any bruises or scratches. Finding none, he let out a quiet, relieved laugh; “ I’m glad… ”, offering a faint smile.

He guided the dogs over to a dense bush, and made sure that they were well-hidden. “ Stay here, ” he whispered, giving each a small pat. “ You’ll be safer. ” With one last glance to ensure they wouldn’t be seen, he left to find Diluc.

The further he made his way back, the greater his wound began to ache. His movements became more and more painful with each passing step, as if the very air around him conspired to press against him.

Diluc was already tired of fighting and fending the field all by himself. His left leg was visibly scarred, and his swings grew ever so weaker with every passing second.

But despite his relentless efforts to bring it down—the Abyss Mage in front of him would neither falter nor succumb.

Yet, in the corner of his eyes – Diluc saw a person.
Someone was limping towards him.

That person was none other than Theseus .

His eyes widened in concern at the pallor on his face, and the crimson staining his leg and shirt. Without a word, he crossed over—seemingly abandoning the fight to help support his injured friend.

“You’re hurt. Badly.” he muttered. His tone was tightened with worry as he inspected his blood-soaked fabric.

“ Sit down. ”
He guided him to the ground.

Diluc bit his lip and looked at the remaining enemy - a Pyro Abyss Mage. “Damn it.” He hissed through his teeth.  His voice came out rough, almost reluctant, as he looked to Theseus.

“I… need your help .” he admitted, each word scraping against his throat. 

The young detective looked into Diluc’s eyes, tilting his chin back - silently signaling his readiness. His expression spoke clearly: whatever Diluc needed, he was prepared to assist.

“Theseus, do you see that Pyro mage?” Diluc’s voice was urgent. “I need you to cast Electro on my claymore. Nothing more, got it?” Theseus nodded weakly in reply and proceeded to apply the elemental power on the weapon without any questions.

The Pyro mage summoned three fiery demon heads in a triangular formation, each spewing flames that trapped Diluc and Theseus.

Within the second, Diluc grabbed the front of Theseus's shirt, tossing him out of danger before jumping himself free. Theseus hit the ground hard, watching with circle shaped eyes as Diluc sprang to his feet and charged forward.

Diluc struck the fiery shield, his claymore humming with the last remnants of the Electro energy Theseus had cast. Sparks flew with each strike. As Diluc’s blade cleaved through the barrier, the mage staggered, exposed.

With one quick glance back at Theseus, who gave a thumbs-up from the ground - confirming he was okay, Diluc surged forward, cutting cleanly through the mage in a single, final swing. The Pyro mage let out a muffled cry before dissolving into ashes, ending its assault for good.

When the dust settled, Diluc turned to see Theseus sitting on the ground, rubbing his lower back with an exasperated sigh. “My bum’s definitely feeling that toss again…” he muttered, half-pouting but with a faint grin peeking through.

Diluc let out a rare chuckle, his smirk anxious as he stepped closer, lowering himself to sit beside Theseus. With a clap on Theseus’s shoulder, he tried to lighten the mood. “Consider it a lesson in staying alert.”

Theseus raised an eyebrow, attempting a sarcastic grin despite the sharp pain still throbbing in his leg. “Right, because getting thrown out of fire circles is such a regular occurre—aaAA AUARG ” He winced, cutting himself off as the ache in his leg spiked. His hand instinctively went to the wound, trying to apply pressure. He didn't grasp, until now, that the wound had actually not yet closed.

Diluc's smirk faded as he noticed the pain etched on Theseus’s face. “Hey!” He leaned closer, placing a steady hand on Theseus’s knee as he examined the wound more closely. “How bad is it? How much does it hurt?”

Theseus managed a weak smile, trying to play it off, but his voice betrayed him. “It’s… manageable,” he muttered - trying to downplay it, his hand tightening slightly over the wound. “Just stings a little more than I expected.” 

Diluc’s eyebrows furrowed, his expression growing serious. “Don’t brush it off.” 

“— maaybe more than a little…” his smile breaking at Diluc’s firm, rock hard demanding reply.

Diluc’s grip tightened firmly on Theseus’s hand, moving it away from the wound with a controlled force that left no room for resistance. Placing his other hand directly over the injury.

“Theseus,” Diluc warned, “This is going to hurt.”

Theseus’s jaw clenched in surprise at the sudden warning as he braced himself, gripping the grass beneath him. The pain was already sharp, but he trusted Diluc.

He took a shaky breath—already guessing what was coming next, trying to steady himself. 

“Just… go for it..!”

Diluc deeply concentrated as he pressed his heated hand to Theseus’ wound, sending a burst of fire into the gash. The pain was immediate and intense. Theseus arched instinctively as a shout tore from his throat, and his hand flew up, gripping Diluc’s arm with a crushing force, knuckles white from the strain.

Diluc gritted his teeth, feeling the tremors from Theseus’ grip threatening his concentration. The smell of burnt flesh filled the air, mingling with the earthy dampness around them. Sweat beaded on Diluc’s forehead as he tried to keep his flame steady and even, knowing that any misstep could worsen the injury. 

As the final pulse of heat faded, Diluc lifted his hand, revealing a rough but sealed wound, the edges blackened and fused. He glanced down at Theseus’ pale, sweat-slick face, and softened his grip on his friend’s arm. 

“It’s done.” Diluc sighed, his voice softer as he looked at Theseus with a gentle expression. Reaching out, he placed his hand softly on Theseus’ cheek, his touch warm and comforting. “You did well,” he added; the praise carrying weight, even in its simplicity.

Theseus leaned into the touch, his breath evening out as he held onto Diluc’s hand. The pain was still there, raw and searing, but the burn's intensity had lessened. “I get it.” Theseus murmured, as he squeezed Diluc’s hand, both as an acknowledgment of the treatment’s necessity and a quiet thanks for staying through the ordeal. 

A piercing shout echoed through the quiet air, startling both Theseus and Diluc.

 They turned just as a young boy appeared from the foothills, his face contorted in terror, as he sprinted toward them. 

“Help! Please, help!” the boy screamed, his voice cracking with fear. Theseus and Diluc exchanged a sharp, tense look before rushing to meet the child.

Theseus knelt, gently wrapping his arms around the trembling child.

“... Timmie? ”

He asked softly, studying the boy’s familiar face. He squinted, recalling memories that sparked recognition. 

The boy’s tear-streaked face lifted, eyes wide with surprise. “You… you know me?” Timmie’s voice came out as a muffled whisper, a glimmer of relief breaking through his fear. 

Theseus offered Timmie a gentle smile, his voice softening as he spoke. “Of course. You’re the one who feeds the pigeons on the bridge, right?” Timmie’s eyes brightened, and he nodded quickly, a hint of pride mixing with his lingering fear.

Noticing the boy’s worry, Theseus softened his tone even further, pitching his voice kindly. “I remember things like that, you know,” he said, tapping his temple playfully. “And I think it’s pretty great that you take such good care of those birds. They’re lucky to have you.” 

Timmie’s lips curved into a shy smile, the conversation slowly calming his nerves as he clung to Theseus, finding comfort in the warmth and familiarity of his words.

“Timmie, tell me, what are you doing all the way out here?” Theseus asked gently, patting the boy’s head “it's so far away from home…” 

“I was taken here from Mondstadt by force…” The detective narrowed his eyes waiting for him to continue. Timmie clutched Theseus’ sleeve tightly. “I-I didn’t know where else to go, and then I saw you.”

Timmie hesitated, glancing nervously over his shoulder before looking back at Theseus. His eyes were wide and frightened, darting around “I ran away- from the place an evil man put me in! He- he was chasing me here!! ”

Theseus gasped softly, turning to Diluc exchanging a knowing glance at him. Turning his attention back to Timmie, “You were brave to find us,” he said calmly. “We’ll keep you safe now. No one’s going to harm you here.” 

Diluc rested a hand on Timmie’s shoulder, meeting the boy’s fearful eyes “Theseus will take you home.”

Theseus opened his mouth, ready to protest, but then closed it with a sigh. After a pause, he simply nodded. “Right.”

Theseus stood up, reaching down to hold Timmie’s hand. "You know," he said with a playful smile, “me and Diluc were actually playing with some puppies before you came along…”

Timmie’s eyes sparkled with excitement. “Puppies?” his cheeks flushing.

Theseus nodded, leaning in as if sharing a secret. “Yep! Let’s go get them home, shall we? They must be sooo hungry after all the games we played!” Timmie beamed, his smile wide and bright. 

“We’ll be heading off now, Master Diluc,” Theseus said, adjusting his hat with a determined nod. “Let’s make sure to meet again after all this, alright?” 

Diluc grinned, the corners of his mouth lifting slightly. 

“You take care of him, Theseus.”

Chapter Text

After parting ways with Theseus and Timmie, Diluc turned his attention to the direction from which the boy had emerged. The path ahead was uneven, littered with rocks and patches of frost that gleamed faintly under the fading light. His gaze darted over the terrain, alert to any signs of movement or disturbance. Each step he took was purposeful, his boots crunching against the icy ground as a cold wind whipped around him.

Diluc paused briefly, his hand resting on the hilt of his claymore as his eyes narrowed, scanning for any signs of life—or danger. His breath puffed visibly in the cold as he muttered under his breath: “If this is where that boy came from, there’s something waiting here.”

The foot of the mountain loomed closer, shrouded in mist and dense with an unsettling quiet. Diluc pressed on, his stride unyielding, ready to confront whatever lay ahead. 

Diluc paused, momentarily scratching his forearm where the biting cold had irritated his skin. Suddenly the sound of rapid footsteps echoed from Dragonspine’s direction. He squinted against the hazy mist, trying to discern who or what was approaching. The figure was moving quickly—too quickly, and their stance suggested anything but friendliness.

Releasing his grip on his arm, Diluc drew his claymore in one fluid motion, its fiery edge gleaming menacingly in the dim light. His stance shifted, prepared for a confrontation as the figure came into view. It was a man clad in a knight’s armor, his movements aggressive and deliberate. The man’s black hair was matted with frost, and his brown eyes burned with a feral intensity that spoke of both desperation and rage.

The knight wasted no time. With a guttural shout, he lunged at Diluc, swinging his weapon with wild force. Sparks flew as their blades collided, and the sheer aggression in the knight’s attacks forced Diluc to step back momentarily, assessing his opponent’s chaotic but powerful fighting style.

"Where is Captain Kaeya?" the knight bellowed, his voice hoarse and filled with fury. "Tell me now, or you’ll regret crossing my path!"

Diluc’s grip tightened on his claymore, his crimson eyes narrowing. “I don’t take kindly to threats,” he replied, deflecting another powerful blow. His mind raced. Whoever this knight was, he wasn’t here by accident—and he clearly had a dangerous obsession with Kaeya.

Diluc twisted to parry the knight’s next strike, but the man feinted cleverly, and the edge of his blade sliced into Diluc’s side. Pain flared instantly, and Diluc staggered back, pressing his free hand to the wound. His fingers came away slick with blood. He blinked in surprise; it had been years since someone had managed to land such a hit on him.

The knight grinned, feral and triumphant, but his expression abruptly changed. His eyes widened in horror as he gasped sharply, dropping his weapon. He stumbled back, clutching at his chest, where an ice spike jutted grotesquely from his stomach, piercing through to his heart. Blood seeped from the wound, staining his armor as he collapsed to the ground.

Diluc’s head snapped up, his grip on his claymore tightening as he scanned for the source. Emerging from the shadows, a familiar figure stepped forward,

Kaeya.

The Cavalry Captain's usual smirk was nowhere to be seen, replaced instead with a look of worry etched across his face.

“ Kaeya… ” Diluc’s voice was low, his body still tense, though his eyes softened briefly at the sight of his brother.

Kaeya spared the knight’s body a fleeting glance before focusing entirely on Diluc. “You’re hurt,” he said, concern evident in his tone. His lips pressed into a thin line as he closed the distance between them, his gaze taking in the wound at Diluc’s side. " What in the Archons’ names happened here ?"

Diluc let out a soft breath, his grip on his claymore loosening. A faint smile touched his lips, despite the sting of his injury. Relief washed over him as he looked at Kaeya, alive and unharmed. After everything, after all the chaos and uncertainty, Kaeya was safe.

“I’m glad you’re alright,” Diluc said quietly, his voice steady but tinged with sincerity. For a moment, the tension in his posture eased, as if the weight of the world had momentarily lifted. “This nightmare... it’s finally over. ”

Kaeya met his gaze, his expression softening, though his usual playfulness was still absent. “Not entirely,” he said, a hint of seriousness lacing his voice. “‘Heard about the hostages?”

Diluc nodded.

“Yes. Timmie escaped and found us. He mentioned others being taken... I didn’t get much from the knight before—” He glanced down at the lifeless body nearby, his jaw tightening. “Before this.”

Kaeya stepped closer, placing a hand on Diluc’s shoulder. “Albedo’s already on it,” he said, his tone reassuring. “We have their locations. The Captain of Investigations doesn’t leave loose ends.”

A flicker of gratitude crossed Diluc’s face. “Albedo,” he repeated with a nod. “That’s good.” He paused, then added, “And you? You’ve been safe all this time?”

Kaeya tilted his head, a wry smile ghosting over his lips. “Safe enough. Let’s just say, I’ve had a few surprises of my own. But it’s nothing I couldn’t handle.”

Diluc shook his head, his smile faint but genuine. “You always were infuriatingly capable.”

Kaeya chuckled softly, letting his hand fall from Diluc’s shoulder. “And you are as stubborn as ever. Let’s get that wound of yours treated, alright?”

Diluc nodded, his calm demeanor returning. “I’ll head back to the winery.”

Kaeya quickly raised a hand, cutting him off with a firm look. “Oh no, you’re not going anywhere like this.” His tone left no room for argument. “You’re bleeding, Diluc. You need proper care. Now.”

“I’m fine,” Diluc insisted, though his pale face and the blood seeping through his side betrayed his words.

Kaeya arched an eyebrow, stepping closer. “Fine? Do you really think you can just hobble back to the winery?” He placed a hand on Diluc’s arm, steadying him. “No. You’re getting that treated before you collapse .”

Diluc sighed, knowing he wouldn’t win this argument. “Alright, then. But make it quick. There are still hostages to rescue.”

Kaeya’s expression softened slightly, though his grip remained firm. “Leave that to Albedo and the others for now. You’ve done enough, Diluc. Let someone else carry the burden for once.”

Reluctantly, Diluc nodded. “Fine.”

Kaeya smirked. “Good. Now, let’s go. You’ll thank me later when you’re not bleeding out on your winery floor.”

The walk back to Mondstadt was steeped in an uncomfortable silence, the crunch of their boots on the frosted ground the only sound between them. Neither dared to break it. The tension hung heavy, a wall of unspoken words and unresolved feelings keeping them apart despite their physical proximity.

Kaeya glanced at Diluc out of the corner of his eye, his steps faltering for just a moment. He couldn’t help but feel a strange, unfamiliar sensation—gratitude, perhaps? That Diluc had actually come looking for him, that he believed Kaeya was still alive when so many others might have given up.

It unsettled him.

For his part, Diluc walked with his gaze fixed forward. His face was pale, and his movements were slower, the wound on his side reminding him with every step that he needed to get treated soon. Yet, the exhaustion he felt wasn’t just physical—it was the mental strain of dealing with Kaeya’s antics.

He wanted to scold him, to demand why Kaeya always had to make things so damn difficult, why he seemed to revel in causing stress. But not now.
He was too drained for that conversation, and he doubted either of them had the energy for the inevitable argument it would bring. Later, he told himself. Later.

Kaeya’s fingers twitched at his side. He considered saying something—anything—but what could he say that wouldn’t come out wrong? “Thanks for saving me”? No, too formal. “Why did you bother”? Too vulnerable. Instead, he remained silent, his usual confidence shaken in the face of the quiet determination that had driven Diluc to find him.

They both cared, deeply—though neither would admit it. Not yet.

So they walked in silence; the cold atmosphere between them mirroring the frosty landscape around them. Each step was a reminder of the distance between them they were yet to bridge.

As the first hints of dawn began painting the sky in muted hues,the brothers reached the Cathedral. Kaeya stayed close as Diluc was guided into a treatment room, his worry masked behind his usual composed demeanor.

As a nun began tending to Diluc’s wounds, another approached Kaeya with an urgent look. “Excuse me, Captain Kaeya,” she said softly. “There’s someone here you might want to see— Theseus .”

Kaeya’s eyes widened in surprise. “Theseus? Here ?”
Without waiting for an answer, he stepped away from Diluc’s side, his pulse quickening.

Following the nun’s lead, Kaeya entered another quiet room. His eyes immediately fell on Theseus, resting in bed, his face pale but peaceful. Relief washed over Kaeya like a wave—Theseus was safe. He stepped closer, leaning over the bed and poking Theseus gently on the forehead.

Theseus stirred, blinking groggily before his eyes locked onto Kaeya. His expression shifted from confusion to joy in an instant. “Kaeya!” he gasped, sitting up straighter despite the bandages around his leg.

Kaeya smirked, his arms crossing over his chest. “And here I thought you’d sleep through my grand reunion.”

Theseus grinned, his excitement practically spilling over. “You won’t believe the things we did! We investigated, tracked down leads, and fought off monsters—all to find you!” His voice wavered with genuine relief. “And I’m so glad I was right… That you are okay.”

Kaeya’s gaze softened as he approached Theseus, his eyes drifting to the bandages on his leg. “And what about you?” he asked, his tone gentler now. “That leg doesn’t look okay.”

Theseus waved it off, a sheepish smile on his lips. “It’s nothing. I’ll be fine. Just a scratch, really.”

Kaeya’s expression darkened as he frowned. “A scratch? That’s your excuse? You, too, shouldn’t have been hurt in the first place!”

Theseus blinked, caught off guard. “What do you mean ‘too’?! Is Master Diluc hurt as well?”

Kaeya rolled his eyes, gesturing vaguely. “That’s not the point. Don’t change the subject!”

Theseus raised an eyebrow, clearly unimpressed. “Oh, so it’s fine for him to get hurt, but not me ? Double standards much?”

Kaeya rubbed his nose bridge; “Theseus, this isn’t a competition.”

“Sure feels like it, hypocrite!” Theseus muttered, though there was a teasing lilt in his voice. “What happened to him anyway?”

Kaeya sighed, his shoulders slumping slightly. “A knight attacked him on the way to Dragonspine. He got away with a cut to his side, but it wasn’t exactly minor.”

Theseus’ expression softened, his frustration melting into concern. “He’ll be okay, though… Right?”

Kaeya nodded. “The nuns are treating him. He’ll pull through.”

“Good.” Theseus leaned back into his pillows, exhaling in relief. “But do scold him as well for me, okay?”

Kaeya muttered, “You’re impossible.”

Theseus huffed in reply, crossing his arms. 

For a moment, the tension lifted, and the room was filled with the quiet camaraderie of two friends who had been through far too much, but were grateful to still be standing – well, mostly.

Theseus grew serious, his brown eyes locking onto Kaeya’s. “When do you think I’ll be able to talk to him? To Diluc?”

Kaeya smiled softly, pulling a chair closer to the bedside and sitting down. “Not today, Theseus”, he said firmly. “You’ve both been through enough for one day. Whatever you have to say can wait until tomorrow. For now, you need to rest.”

Theseus pouted: “ Awwwww, but I wanted to talk to himm ! It’s not every day you survive something like this!”

Kaeya lifted an eyebrow, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. “And yet, you’ll have plenty of chances to share your heroics tomorrow. Rest, Theseus—You’ll need your energy.”

The pout lingered for a moment before Theseus’ expression softened – a faint sparkle of hope in his eyes. “Will you be here tomorrow?”

Kaeya’s smirk turned into a reassuring smile. “Yeah,” he said simply.

Theseus’ face lit up – his voice quieter now. “Okay, then. I’ll wait.”

Kaeya stood, resting a hand briefly on Theseus’ shoulder. “Good. Now, close those eyes. You’ve earned it.”

As Kaeya moved toward the door, Theseus watched him go. A sense of comfort settled over him. The day has been chaotic and painful, but knowing Kaeya would still be there tomorrow made it a lot easier to rest.

Chapter Text

The next morning, Kaeya found himself standing outside of Diluc’s room in the cathedral—his hand hesitating on the doorknob. He wasn’t here for an emotional heart-to-heart – just a quick check-in. Steeling himself, he pushed the door open and entered.

Diluc looked up from his bed, his posture relaxed but still dignified despite his injuries. Kaeya stepped in awkwardly, glancing around before asking: “What’s up?”

Diluc gave a faint nod. “I’m doing well. The treatment helped—it doesn’t hurt as much now.”

Kaeya’s lips twitched, and he whispered softly, almost to himself. “I’m glad.”

Before either could say more, the door swung open with a bang, and in limped Theseus, brimming with a confidence that seemed completely at odds with his current state.

Kaeya’s eyebrow shot up as he watched Theseus limp dramatically to the center of the room. The young detective pointed an accusing finger directly at Diluc, his voice filled with mock outrage. “That man… That Diluc… he beat me up!!! He choked me, threw me to the floor… TWICE! and humiliated me!!! Don’t think I forgot!”

Diluc’s eyes widened in sheer disbelief. His mouth fell open before he sputtered. “T- Traitor! ”

The sheer absurdity of the accusation, paired with Diluc’s uncharacteristic reaction, was too much for Kaeya. He clutched his sides, bursting into uncontrollable laughter. The sound echoed through the room, loud and genuine, his usual composure completely shattered.

Theseus’ face flushed with annoyance as he clenched his fist. “I-It’s not funny! I’m serious here!”

Kaeya barely managed to speak through his laughter, tears forming at the corners of his eye. “Oh, it’s— it’s funny all right! I’ve never ever seen him look like that!”

Diluc glared at both of them, crossing his arms over his chest. “You’re both ridiculous.”

But even as the room settled, a reluctant smile tugged at Diluc’s lips. For once, the tension that often hung heavy between him and Kaeya seemed to lighten, if only a little, thanks to the chaos Theseus had brought with him.

Theseus, undeterred by Kaeya’s laughter and Diluc’s disapproving glare, approached the red-haired man with an air of mock seriousness. He stood over Diluc, his expression stern. “Now then,” he began, his tone dripping with exaggerated professionalism. “About your payment.”

Diluc blinked, tilting his head in confusion. “Payment?”

“These investigations don’t come cheap,” Theseus said, leaning in closer. His voice dropped conspiratorially. “If you want to repay me properly, you’ll need to take me and Kaeya to Good Hunter for breakfast. Non-negotiable.”

Diluc blinked again, caught off guard, before a nervous chuckle escaped him. “Fine, fine. Breakfast it is.”

“Good… good…” Theseus said, his eyes narrowing playfully. Then, as if on a swivel, his head turned sharply toward Kaeya, his gaze locking onto him. “AND YOU!”

Kaeya, still recovering from his earlier fit of laughter, pointed at himself in mock surprise. “Me?”

“Yes, you!” Theseus jabbed a finger in Kaeya’s direction, his tone a mix of mock indignation and genuine insistence. “You owe us—me and Diluc—an explanation! And no dodging, no mysterious riddles!”

Kaeya’s smirk faltered slightly as he gave a reluctant nod. “An explanation, hmm? Fine. But only if Good Hunter serves something strong for breakfast.”

Theseus crossed his arms, satisfied. “Deal. And no excuses!”

”Let’s go.”

Diluc sighed, shaking his head but unable to hide the faint smile tugging at his lips. “Looks like I don’t have much of a choice.”

Kaeya grinned, adjusting his gloves. “Oh, don’t look so dour, Diluc. It’s not every day you get such lively breakfast companions!”

The trio made their way out of the cathedral – an unusual sight for Mondstadt’s early risers. Theseus limped along, his steps uneven but determined, while Diluc hunched over slightly, visibly drained from the events of the previous day. Kaeya walked alongside them, his fingers massaging his nose bridge as though trying to erase the headache caused by their antics.

Arriving at Good Hunter, the three placed their orders at the counter.

“I’ll have a fisherman’s toast ,” Theseus said with a grin, though his voice carried a hint of exhaustion.

“I’ll take the ‘Pile Em Up,’” Diluc said simply, his tone betraying no hesitation.

Kaeya leaned on the counter, glancing at the options before sighing. “Just a fried egg for me, thank you.”

Once their meals were set, they took their seats at a corner table. Theseus, ever the chatterbox, wasted no time.

“You really ordered a pile of steaks first thing in the morning?” Theseus asked Diluc, raising an eyebrow and crossing his arms. “Are you trying to terrify the chef or what?”

Diluc shrugged, utterly unbothered. “Steak is versatile. Besides, I like it.”

Kaeya couldn’t help but smirk, though he shook his head in quiet disbelief. Some things never change, he thought to himself. Diluc’s been doing this since we were kids.

When their meals arrived, the mood shifted to one of quiet appreciation. Diluc dug into one of his steaks, his expression softening as he enjoyed the meal. 

Theseus, however, found himself staring down at his toast, his head tilted downward in thought. His fingers brushed the edges of the bread absentmindedly, his appetite seemingly overshadowed by something weighing on his mind. Kaeya noticed the shift, his sharp gaze flicking between his two companions as he waited for Theseus to speak.

“So,” Kaeya finally broke the silence; “Are we eating in peace, or is someone going to address the elephant in the room?”

Theseus glanced up, his lips quirking into a faint smile. “Give me a minute. I’m just… Thinking.”

Diluc paused mid-bite, his attention now focused on Theseus. “Take your time,” he said, surprising both Kaeya and Theseus with his unusually gentle tone.

The momentary silence was interrupted by Theseus, who turned to Kaeya with a pointed look. "So, why exactly did you make yourself the bait? Why did the criminal target you of all people?"

Kaeya exhaled deeply, crossing his arms and leaning back in his chair. "Straight to the point, huh?" He glanced at his plate before meeting Theseus’s curious gaze.

“The criminal was one of my knights,” Kaeya explained, his tone calm but laced with a subtle bitterness. “Jean and I decided to split the knights under my command to go ‘search’ for me when I disappeared. The ones we sent to Dragonspine were, conveniently, the most suspicious of the lot.”

Theseus tilted his head, narrowing his eyes. "Suspicious knights?"

Kaeya nodded. “Yes. I knew one of them was the killer. I took advantage of their rationale. My disappearance was intentional and designed to make them nervous. The killer didn’t personally make me vanish, and yet the public believed it was his doing. That inconsistency was deliberate—meant to make him suspect that I knew his identity. If he thought I knew, he'd act.”

Diluc, silently listening as he finished the last of his steak, glanced at Kaeya. “You baited him into revealing himself.”

Kaeya smiled faintly. “Exactly. It’s a dangerous game, but it’s effective when you’re dealing with someone rationalizing their crimes through their authority.”

Theseus nodded slowly, digesting the information. "Why did he—"

Kaeya cut him off with a sharp tone, “—he was a psycho.” He paused briefly before continuing, his voice softer but no less serious. “I’m no psychologist, but he probably thought he could get away with murder and kidnapping because of his position as a knight. Power often brings entitlement, and entitlement makes people reckless.”

Theseus raised an eyebrow. “But why the kidnappings?”

Kaeya’s gaze darkened slightly. “Probably for leverage. Blackmail, in case he was ever found out. It’s the easiest way to ensure silence.”

Theseus gasped, his expression shifting to one of realization. “Right… makes sense.”

Diluc, who had been quietly observing, finally spoke up. “Were the hostages found?”

Kaeya sighed, his fingers tapping the edge of the table. “I hope so. I haven’t received an update from Albedo yet, but I trust him to handle it.”

Theseus leaned back in his chair, his lips curving into a mischievous grin. “You’re forgetting something, Captain.”

Kaeya furrowed his brows, his head tilting slightly. “What now?”

With an offended tone, Theseus gestured dramatically. “Where’s my heartfelt thanks? You know, something like, ‘Thank you for searching for me, Theseus! Without you, the mission wouldn’t have succeeded!’”

Kaeya shot him a deadpan look, lifting his fist playfully in a joking threat. “Don’t push it.”

Diluc, watching the exchange, couldn’t suppress a gentle smile. For the first time in days, there was a fleeting sense of normalcy amidst the chaos.