As the sun began to set, casting a golden hue over Teyvat, Venti led us toward Mondstadt, the city of freedom. The towering windmills and grand architecture were awe-inspiring. I felt a strange mix of excitement and nervousness as we approached the gates.
"We're going to the Angel's Share, Mondstadt's finest tavern." Venti announced with a grin. "It's a great place to meet people and relax."
Xiao remained silent, his expression as unreadable as ever, but I could see a hint of reluctance in his eyes. 'Guess his stoic expression is readable, huh?' Despite that, he followed us inside the bustling tavern. The warm glow of lanterns and the sound of lively chatter greeted us as we stepped through the door.
"Ah, the usual crowd." Venti said, scanning the room. "Let's find a table."
As we made our way through the crowded tavern, I noticed a tall man with fiery red hair behind the bar, serving drinks with a stoic expression. Beside him was a small girl with cat ears and a tail, her demeanor sharp and efficient.
"That's Diluc." Venti whispered to me. "He owns the tavern. And the girl is Diona, our resident bartender."
We found a table near the corner, and Venti waved to Diluc. "Evening, Diluc! Can we get a round of your finest for our new friend Amadrya?"
Diluc glanced at us, his red eyes briefly meeting mine. He gave a curt nod and started preparing the drinks. Diona, on the other hand, looked less pleased.
"More work for me." she grumbled, but her hands moved skillfully as she mixed the drinks.
'Is she always this rude? No, wait... Is this perhaps her normal attitude?" I unconsciously tilt my head with confused stoic expression.
As we settled into our seats, I noticed two figures at a nearby table. One was a man with a blue cloak and a charming smile, the other a woman with silver-streak hair and a burgundy hair with a serious expression. They seemed to be deep in conversation, but the man looked up and waved when he saw Venti.
"Venti, come join us!" he called out, his voice friendly and inviting.
"Kaeya, Rosaria." Venti greeted them with a nod. "I'd like you to meet Amadrya."
Kaeya's smile widened as he looked at me. "A pleasure to meet you, Amadrya. I'm Kaeya, Cavalry Captain of the Knights of Favonius."
A charming smile won't work at me like that. Well, I have a high quality standard at man, and one of them is that that man won't drink. So, I just nodded as a response, keeping my stoic face.
Rosaria returns me a brief nod, her gaze sharp. "And I'm Rosaria. Nice to meet you."
I nodded again, feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the new faces. "Nice to meet you too."
Diluc arrived with our drinks, placing them on the table with practiced ease. "Enjoy," he said, his voice deep and calm.
"Thank you, Mister Diluc." I replied, taking a sip. The drink was surprisingly good, a mix of sweet and bitter that felt refreshing, but it's still bitter— not to mention, my first drink. I couldn't hide the fact that I want to spit out my drink.
"Pfft—" I immediately turn my head to the figure who laughed at me. "So, Amadrya," Kaeya said, leaning back in his chair. "What brings you to Mondstadt?"
"It's... a long story..." My gaze shifted to my knitted thigh-high boots before glancing at Xiao. "But let's just say I'm here for a fresh start."
Venti raised his glass. "To fresh starts and new friends!" he declared, and we all clinked our glasses together, and of course, I didn't drink. Drink with responsible.
As the evening went on, the atmosphere in the tavern grew more relaxed. Venti entertained us with stories and songs, his voice captivating and melodious. Kaeya and Rosaria shared tales of their adventures, while Diluc and Diona worked tirelessly behind the bar, occasionally joining in the conversation.
For the first time in a long while, I felt a sense of belonging. These people, despite their differences and unique quirks, welcomed me without question. They made me feel like I was part of something bigger, something meaningful.
As I listened to their laughter and stories, I realized that maybe this was what I had been missing all along. Not just a change of scenery, but a sense of community, of friendship.
When the night finally drew to a close, and we left the tavern, I felt a warmth in my heart that I hadn't felt in years. Xiao walked beside me, his presence a comforting constant.
"Thank you..." I said softly, looking up at him. "For everything."
He glanced at me, his expression softening just a little. "You're welcome, Amadrya. This is just the beginning."
I turned my head completely as I look at him. Was he.... smiling.... just now? I couldn't help but giggle as we walk side-by-side.
"What's the matter, Amadrya?" His expression turned serious and I stopped laughing. I'm scared at his intimidating appearance.
"N-Nothing.... " I stuttered and look on the way again. Then suddenly, I felt a hand on my head.