When the Stars Fall [Genshin Impact]

Bonus Chapter: 1K Special

The atmosphere was buzzing as you got dressed in the morning. You threw open the windows, letting the cool, late summer air rush into your bedroom. You took a deep breath in, relishing the resplendent draft.

But there was also a smell of something…burnt…?

You thundered downstairs, where the burning smell grew even stronger. The kitchen table was laid with plates - but they were empty.

"Diluc?" 

The first thing you saw when you stepped into the kitchen was Diluc was standing at a stove, a pile of charred eggs on a plate next to him. You stood there for a moment, taking in the scene, mouth slightly ajar.

“…How…” you trailed off. His face was a mixture of amusement and shame. How does a person manage to fail cooking an egg?

“It was…surprisingly easy, actually.”

You laughed, and Diluc let out a dry chuckle.

“Oh, if only I had a Kamera at hand,” Diluc said. “Your face just then was priceless.”

“D, you are not living this down. Butchering a fried egg…” You said through giggles.

“I’m kidding, of course. Your real birthday breakfast is on the table.”

“My…breakfast…?” You blinked incredulously.

You turned around in confusion, and saw some of the maids, laying out a lavish breakfast at the dining table. Adelinde placed a stack of pancakes and drizzled them with syrup before smiling. “Happy birthday!”

“The charred eggs were just there to scare you.”

“Did all of you do this for me?” You asked, in half horror and half joy as you stared at the multitudes of plates laid out. “Isn’t this a little extreme?”

“It’s your eighteenth, after all. Enjoy it while you can.” Diluc said from behind.

You grinned widely. “I’m definitely going to need some help finishing this.”

And so, all of Diluc’s staff currently present in the manor sat down with you and Diluc, chatting merrily and sipping on Diluc’s famed grape juice.

His best grapes had been picked recently, as they had grown ripe in the late summer.

After a hearty breakfast dominated by eggs, pancakes and honestly, absolutely everything else you could think of, Diluc stood up. "Come, now. Your present is waiting for you."

Diluc was never one to really go out of his way to buy gifts and presents, so it was truly exciting when he did. He preferred to show that he cared by spending time with you, or simply being there whenever you needed a brother to turn to.

He led you to the weaponry room, where he opened the doors and gestured for you to go first. You did as was suggested, and you took a quick scan around the area.

"A good weapon is key for combat. But if that is what you depend on for your prowess in battle, then you are unworthy of such." Diluc began from behind you. "Your task is to defend against me."

You nodded quickly.

"With a blindfold on."

Now that was absurd.

"You're also only allowed the weapons I give to you directly during the battle. Being able to adapt and change is crucial."

"How can I parry you if I can't see you?"

"That, I'll leave you to find out."

As promised, he blindfolded you, and placed the first weapon into your outstretched hand.