Chapter 040: Jean's Personal Request

Shao Yun rode his horse away from the winery, heading southwest. Along the way, he passed several wineries, each time hoping it was Dawn Winery. Unfortunately, none of them were. The reactions of the winery owners were all the same—first excitement, then disappointment, followed by stubborn persistence, and finally, they pointed him in the right direction.

After mistakenly visiting several wineries, Shao Yun couldn't help but feel a growing sense of frustration, his brows furrowing tightly. Having made so many wrong turns, he had learned to check the signboards first. He passed by a few more small wineries but still couldn't find Dawn Winery. He muttered under his breath, "I can't believe how many wineries there are in this area. Just how big is this place?"

Behind him, Lumine and Paimon looked rather uncomfortable. Having eaten too much in the morning and being unaccustomed to horseback riding, they were both feeling queasy. Lumine leaned against Shao Yun's back, murmuring drowsily, "Thank goodness for your horse, Shao Yun. Otherwise, we'd be walking until midnight. Ugh..." She couldn't help but gag slightly.

(TL/N: hehe "gag")

Paimon, on the other hand, was slumped over Shao Yun's shoulder, her face twisted in discomfort. She groaned, "Paimon never wants to eat that much again. This is so awful..."

Hearing their complaints, Shao Yun glanced back at them, feeling a mix of helplessness and amusement. Thankfully, he had slowed the horse's pace after the first winery, allowing the two to feel slightly better. Otherwise, they might have already thrown up by now.

After riding a few dozen steps further, they encountered an adventurer transporting goods via a hot air balloon. Shao Yun quickly approached and asked, "Excuse me, could you tell me where Dawn Winery is?"

The adventurer stopped and pointed behind him. "It's just up ahead, very close."

Hearing this, Shao Yun's spirits lifted, and he thanked the adventurer before urging his horse forward. Finally, they were nearing their destination! Lumine and Paimon, who had also heard the adventurer's directions, perked up with anticipation.

After riding a bit further and cresting a hill, Shao Yun was stunned by the sight before him. The entire hillside was covered in... wait, no, not that! The hillside was covered in vineyards, lush grapevines stretching across the slopes, one after another, forming a breathtaking sea of grapes. The sheer scale of the vineyards was awe-inspiring. Shao Yun couldn't help but marvel inwardly—this plantation was so vast that even the combined farming areas of the two largest plantation families in Roz Town wouldn't come close to half its size.

(TL/N: Meanwhile in the game 🗿)

Continuing along the path, they finally arrived at the entrance of the winery. Shao Yun dismounted and saw the sign that read "Dawn Winery."

"This is it! This is Dawn Winery!" Shao Yun exclaimed excitedly.

Standing at the entrance, Shao Yun couldn't help but be captivated by the grandeur of the building. As he took in the details, he realized that this was on a completely different level compared to the previous wineries he had visited. Master Diluc's home was like a castle.

He couldn't help but mutter to himself, "Good heavens, Diluc is loaded!"

The estate exuded an air of grandeur, simplicity, and elegance. The exterior walls were made of finely crafted stone bricks, weathered by time to give off a simplicity yet solemn charm. Green vines climbed the walls, adding a touch of vitality to the estate. The architectural style was similar to that of Mondstadt's residential areas—simple yet refined.

The dark wooden doors and windows added a sense of elegant. The roof was covered in deep red tiles, and the building's clean, flowing lines, devoid of excessive ornamentation, radiated an understated nobility. The spacious courtyard was adorned with Mondstadt's signature plants—dandelions and small lamp grass.

Shao Yun took in the layout of the estate, feeling a mix of envy and admiration. "This place is practically a castle," he thought. Comparing it to the Brightwhite Estate in Roz Town, it was clear that the two were on par. But alas, the Brightwhite Estate had been burned down, and after taking the gold bars and brooch, he had never returned.

Lumine and Paimon dismounted, having seen this place before when they activated the teleport waypoint. The first time, they had been just as awestruck as Shao Yun, but the second time, the impact wasn't as strong. Lumine held her forehead and commented, "It's definitely big, but it's a bit smaller than the Knights of Favonius headquarters, right?"

At that moment, a maid emerged from the estate. She wore a neat uniform and greeted them with a warm smile. "Welcome to Dawn Winery," she said, her voice gentle and soothing, making them feel right at home.

She looked at Lumine and Paimon and said, "You must be the famous Honorary Knight and Paimon." Her tone was kind and welcoming. Then, her gaze shifted to Shao Yun, and after a moment of scrutiny, she added, "And you must be the man Master Diluc described as 'bear-like.' I didn't believe it at first, but now I see it's true."

Shao Yun chose to interpret Diluc's description as a compliment. "So, that's how Master Diluc sees me," he thought.

The maid looked at him, a faint smile playing on her lips. "Master Diluc rarely praises anyone. Strength is a valuable trait in a man," she said softly, her tone carrying a hint of respect and reverence for Diluc.

Her gaze then shifted to the horse, and she carefully examined every detail, as if appreciating a fine piece of art. "It's been a long time since I've seen such a fine horse. Truly impressive," she remarked, her words simple yet filled with admiration. It was clear she had a keen eye for horses, and there was even a hint of desire to purchase the animal.

Shao Yun noticed her tone and responded with a smile, "Thank you for the compliment, but my horse isn't for sale." His words carried a deep affection for the animal.

The maid replied calmly, "Don't worry, I wouldn't dream of taking something so dear to you." Her voice was composed, and she seemed to have read Shao Yun's thoughts.

She then pointed to a nearby, long-unused stable and said, "The stables are over there. I'll have someone take care of your horse."

After settling the horse, Shao Yun entered the winery. Inside, he found Diluc's maids tending to Lumine and Paimon, who were lying on a couch, looking rather pale.

Seeing Shao Yun enter, one of the maids nodded, signaling that everything was under control. This wasn't due to injury or illness—it was simply a case of overeating and motion sickness, or rather, "horse sickness." The remedies they had tried didn't seem to help. All they could do was provide a quiet environment and let the two recover on their own.

However, under the care of the maids, Lumine and Paimon were likely to recover soon. Shao Yun sat down on the couch beside them and quietly waited for Diluc's return.

...

As night fell, the lights of the winery gradually lit up. In the darkness, Diluc's figure appeared at the entrance. He walked inside and, upon seeing Shao Yun, Lumine, and Paimon—who had already recovered—remarked without expression, "I thought you'd be back by evening."

Shao Yun stood up and complained, "Master Diluc, your estate is so far away. Do you have to travel this distance every day?"

Diluc replied nonchalantly, "It's not too bad. If I run at full speed, it only takes about an hour." His tone suggested that such a journey was nothing out of the ordinary.

Shao Yun couldn't help but marvel at Diluc's physical prowess. "You must be in great shape."

"You're not so bad yourself," Diluc replied.

After a bit of mutual praise, Jean arrived at the estate. As soon as she entered, she greeted everyone warmly. "Master Diluc, Honorary Knight, Paimon, and Shao Yun, hello everyone."

Diluc gestured toward a chair with an open palm, signaling for Jean to sit. "Take a seat and rest," he said.

Jean nodded gracefully and sat down. "Now, we're just waiting for that bard."

A few minutes later, the door gently opened, and Venti walked in, carrying the faint aroma of apple cider. In his hand was a half-empty bottle of apple wine, and he wore an apologetic smile. "Sorry I'm late," he said.

Diluc gave him a look of mild exasperation. "Where have you been drinking this time?" he teased, though there was no real reproach in his eyes.

Venti chuckled and waved the bottle. "I've figured out how to save Dvalin, so I treated myself a little," he said with a grin.

With everyone gathered, Venti laid out his plan. "In summary, we need more of Dvalin's tears to restore the Skyward Harp's vitality. That's the key to saving Dvalin."

He then pointed out three locations where they could find Dvalin's tears: the Thousand Winds Temple, the Eagle's Gate in Dadaupa Gorge, and a hilichurl camp. The first two were relatively safe, but the hilichurl camp in Dadaupa Gorge would require a direct confrontation. While hilichurls were generally weak, the camp was guarded by large hilichurl berserkers and shamans who could wield elemental powers. It was a risky endeavor.

After hearing Venti's description, Shao Yun immediately volunteered. "Then what are we waiting for? I'll take on the hilichurl camp. You all handle the other two locations."

Just as Shao Yun stepped forward, Jean suddenly called out to him, her voice tinged with urgency. "Wait a moment."

Jean's gaze lingered on Shao Yun, her eyes filled with a complex emotion. She seemed to be weighing something in her mind before pulling Lumine aside.

The two stood in a corner, speaking in hushed tones. Though their voices were low, there was a palpable sense of gravity in their conversation. Jean's brows were furrowed, as if she were grappling with a difficult decision, while Lumine listened intently, nodding occasionally to show her understanding.

Shao Yun stood where he was, watching them with a puzzled expression. It seemed like something important was being discussed.

After a while, Jean and Lumine finished their conversation. Jean walked over to Shao Yun, a hint of apology in her expression. "Shao Yun, there's something I need to tell you," she said.

"Go ahead, I'm listening," Shao Yun replied, though he couldn't help but feel a bit impatient.

Jean took a deep breath and began, "Lumine and I have discussed this. Let me be clear—your ability to capture the Raptor proves your strength. I'm not underestimating you, but your combat prowess is... excessive for this task. You shouldn't..."

Shao Yun's patience was wearing thin. He wasn't one for beating around the bush and had once told Jean that direct communication was best. Yet, it seemed she hadn't taken his advice to heart.

He tried to keep his tone calm but firm. "I've said it before—just say what you mean. It works better that way."

Finally, Jean got to the point. "I have a personal request for you."

Shao Yun nodded, signaling her to continue.

"Diluc, Lumine, and I will be away for a few days. With our absence, Mondstadt's defenses will be weakened. So, I'd like to ask you to protect Mondstadt while we're gone. I'm worried..."

Jean's eyes were filled with deep concern, though she hesitated to voice her fears outright.

Shao Yun cut to the chase. "You're worried the Fatui might take advantage and seize control of the city?"

At his words, Jean's expression grew even more uneasy. She bit her lip lightly and said in a low voice, "Yes. I don't mean to doubt you, but as Diluc mentioned, if the Fatui were to..."

Her voice trailed off, as if she were avoiding something, afraid of offending Shao Yun.

But Shao Yun understood. Someone needed to guard the home front. If the city were to fall, it would be a disaster. Given his strength, it made sense for him to stay.

He glanced at Lumine, who gave a slight nod, indicating her agreement with Jean's plan.

"I understand. Leave it to me. But remember, next time, just say it directly."

Jean let out a sigh of relief, feeling as if a weight had been lifted from her shoulders. However, just as she thought everything was settled, Shao Yun's tone turned cold and serious.

"Let me make one thing clear—I'm not some kind-hearted pushover. If the Fatui dare to make a move, I'll kill every last one of them in Mondstadt. Do you understand?"

Jean's eyes widened as she met Shao Yun's steely gaze. For a moment, she felt a pang of regret. But then she reminded herself that if the Fatui were to break the truce and attempt to seize control, they would no longer be diplomats but spies—and killing them would be justified.

"Understood. But one condition—if the Fatui don't make the first move, you won't either. That's my only request."

Shao Yun nodded. "I won't fire the first shot, but I guarantee the Fatui won't get a second chance."

Jean's heart sank slightly at his words, but she knew it was a necessary precaution. After all, if the Fatui were to strike first, they would no longer be protected by diplomatic immunity. They would be enemies, and Shao Yun's response would be justified.

"Very well," Jean said softly. "Let's hope it doesn't come to that."