Henry stepped out of the café, the evening air cool against his face. He realized, with a sinking feeling, that he had no idea how to get to Dawn Winery.
I don't know the way.
[That's a problem.]
Before he could figure out a solution, a voice called out to him.
"Henry!"
He turned, his eyes widening in surprise.
Jean was standing a few feet away, dressed in a stunning sapphire-blue satin gown that caught the fading light. She was holding the hem of her dress to keep it from trailing through the dust, her smile warm and inviting as she stepped closer. The luxurious fabric was cut as a single, continuous drape, with elegant ruched folds gathering at her waist before cascading into a sweeping, floor-length skirt. Delicate jeweled spaghetti straps and a sweetheart neckline trimmed with intricate silver and sapphire beadwork held the gown aloft, leaving her shoulders and collarbone elegantly bare.
The rich, deep blue complemented her blonde hair and fair complexion beautifully, while the glossy satin clung seamlessly to the curves of her waist and hips, hugging her athletic, poised frame in all the right places. She completed the look with a delicate pendant necklace and a matching silk-and-lace fan.
She's... wow.
Jean walked toward him, clearly delighted by his reaction. "I didn't think I'd see you here."
"I was about to say the same," Henry replied, recovering his composure. "You're going to the party?"
"I am. Diluc invited me." Jean paused, her smile turning curious. "He invited you too?"
"Yeah. He did."
Jean seemed surprised for a moment, but the expression quickly gave way to warmth. "Then we should go together. I can show you the way."
"That would be great." Henry grinned. "I have no idea how to get there."
Jean laughed, the sound light and musical. "That's not surprising. It's a bit out of the way."
They found many carriages near the city gates, most likely arranged for people from Mondstadt who wanted to travel to Diluc's party. The carriages were lined up in a neat row, their drivers waiting patiently as guests climbed aboard in their finest attire. Henry helped Jean into one of the carriages and sat beside her.
The carriage lurched forward as the driver snapped the reins, and they were off. The road wound through the countryside, passing fields of golden wheat and clusters of trees that swayed gently in the evening breeze. The setting sun painted the sky in shades of orange and pink, casting long shadows across the landscape.
"I'm surprised Diluc invited you," Jean said, curiosity evident in her voice. "He doesn't usually extend invitations to people he's just met."
"He said he was curious about me." Henry shrugged. "I guess I made an impression."
Jean searched his face, as if trying to read something hidden. "You've been making quite a few impressions lately."
"I try."
She laughed softly. "You do more than try. The café, the bicycles, the noodles—you've changed so much about Mondstadt in such a short time."
Henry glanced at her. "You seem to know him well."
"We've known each other for years. He was actually a cavalry captain once. Before..." She trailed off, a flicker of sadness passing through her eyes before she looked away. "Before he decided to focus on the winery."
Henry didn't press. He had read enough of the lore to know what she wasn't saying—Crepus, the Delusion, the night everything changed. Best not to bring that up.
"The winery is impressive, I heard," Henry said instead. "I've heard the wine is famous all over Teyvat."
"It is." Jean's expression lightened. "Dandelion Wine is exported to every nation. Even the Qixing in Liyue import it for their banquets."
"That's quite a reputation."
"It's well-earned."
The carriage rolled on, the road becoming rougher as they left the main path. The wheels jostled against stones and uneven ground, and Henry gripped the side of the carriage to steady himself. Jean did the same, her hand brushing against his for a brief moment.
The carriage continued through the countryside, passing through small villages and vineyards that stretched toward the horizon. The sky darkened, the first stars beginning to appear, and the torches along the path flickered to life.
After a while, the carriage slowed and came to a stop. Henry stepped out and helped Jean climb down, then turned to look toward Dawn Winery.
The Dawn Winery loomed before them, its size and grandeur making Henry's breath catch. The in-game model had been tiny compared to this—a sprawling massive estate of wood and warm light, surrounded by vineyards that stretched into the distance. Torches flickered along the path, and the sound of music and laughter drifted through the air.
This is massive. Way bigger than I expected.
[It's a mansion and a winery. Considering how famous Dandelion Wine is all over Teyvat, this is expected.]
Henry walked beside Jean toward the entrance, his eyes taking in the details. The wooden walls were adorned with climbing vines, their leaves catching the torchlight. The windows glowed with warm light, revealing glimpses of the elegant interior.
They entered together, their presence drawing a few glances from the other guests. The interior was even more impressive—high ceilings, elegant chandeliers, and a crowd of well-dressed people mingling and chatting. The air smelled of wine and perfume and something floral that Henry couldn't identify.
Diluc stood near the center of the room, his voice carrying across the crowd as he welcomed everyone to the party. His red hair was immaculate, his expression composed.
"Esteemed friends and guests," Diluc said, raising his glass, "I welcome you to my humble abode. Tonight, we celebrate the start of Ludi Harpastum. For this joyous occasion, I've prepared a fine vintage kept hidden in my father's cellar for 29 years." He paused, letting the words settle. "Enjoy the wine, the music, and the company. I trust you'll find the evening memorable."
Henry felt a strange sense of déjà vu, as if he had experienced this moment before, hearing Diluc's words. But he had never attended one of Diluc's parties earlier.
Maybe it's nothing. I might be imagining things.
The crowd applauded, and the music swelled. Couples began to move toward the dance floor, their steps light and practiced.
Jean looked at Henry expectantly, a quiet hope in her eyes that he recognized. He stood and offered his hand. "May I have this dance?"
Jean's smile was radiant. "You may."
They moved to the dance floor, and Henry placed his hand on her waist. The music was slow and elegant, a classical piece that required precision and grace.
Henry had never danced before.
He stepped on Jean's foot within the first few seconds. "Sorry—"
"It's fine." Jean's voice was gentle. "Just follow my lead."
She guided him through the steps, her movements fluid and practiced. Henry stumbled through the first few bars, his feet refusing to cooperate with the rhythm.
This is embarrassing.
Jean laughed softly as he nearly tripped again. "You're doing better than I expected."
"Were your expectations that low?"
"They were realistic." Her eyes sparkled with amusement. "It's fine that you're trying for me. Most people can't dance."
He focused, letting the rhythm guide him, and soon his feet began to move in time with hers, the steps becoming more natural. He learned to anticipate her movements, to shift his weight at the right moment, and his initial clumsiness faded, replaced by a growing confidence. Before long, he was leading her instead of following.
Jean's eyes widened, her expression shifting from surprise to delight. "You're a quick learner."
"I have a good teacher."
She laughed, the sound light and genuine. "Flattery will get you everywhere, Henry."
"Good to know."
They continued dancing, the world around them fading into a blur of music and movement. Jean's smile never wavered, her eyes never leaving his, and Henry found himself lost in the moment, both of them simply enjoying each other's company, until Jean's feet began to ache and he guided her toward a table near the edge of the dance floor.
"Thank you," Jean said, settling into her chair. "That was wonderful."
"Thank you for putting up with my clumsy feet."
She smiled. "You were not that clumsy by the end. Not at all."
A group of Jean's knight friends approached, their laughter and chatter filling the space around them. Jean glanced at Henry apologetically.
"Go ahead," Henry said. "I'll find something to drink."
She waved at him happily. "I'll find you later. Come join us soon—I want to introduce you to my friends."
Jean was pulled into the group, her laughter carrying across the room as she chatted with her friends.
Henry moved through the crowd, nodding at familiar faces. He spotted some of the Knights, a few merchants from the city, and several other people he recognized from passing interactions. The party was lively and celebratory.
He was intent on greeting every familiar face and didn't notice the person standing directly in front of him, walking straight into them.
"Sorry—" Henry began, stepping back.
He looked up.
A blue-haired man stood before him, his red eyes hidden behind a strange cow mask. But the smile on his face was unmistakable—wide and unsettling, with a hint of something unhinged lurking beneath the surface
Henry froze. No. No way. That's not— Now he knew why he kept feeling déjà vu. This was the exact plot scene that marked the start of the Genshin storyline.
The man's smile widened. Henry stared, his heart pounding.
The Second of the Eleven Fatui Harbingers.
Dottore.
___
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