"Huh?! What important intel?!"
Ellin ran over at his words, looking at Diluc with wide, curious eyes.
Under the gaze of those beautiful, starry eyes, whatever anger Diluc had felt vanished without a trace.
He let out a long sigh, his expression settling back into calm.
Then he told Ellin, "Lately, I've noticed Abyss Mages becoming much more active in Mondstadt."
"In my experience, if you find one rat in your house, there's probably already a whole nest of them living there."
"If Abyss Mages are already this active out in the open, how many more members of the Abyss are lurking in Mondstadt's shadows?"
"My instincts tell me the Abyss must be hiding somewhere, secretly plotting something terrible against Mondstadt!"
"So I gathered information wherever I could, and today, I finally found a few clues!"
"Oh, oh! And then?" Ellin looked at Diluc expectantly.
"And then... then..."
Diluc suddenly stumbled over his words.
"Then I realized they still haven't exposed enough weaknesses. If we act rashly and alert them, we'll only tip them off."
"Let's wait a little longer. Time will gradually make their weaknesses more apparent."
"Also, I have some business to take care of back in Mondstadt today."
"Mm-hmm, I see."
Ellin gave Diluc a guileless grin. "Then, Master Diluc, remember to tell me if you find anything out."
"Don't always put yourself in danger alone. I can help you too."
"Yes, all right!"
Diluc nodded slightly, but for some reason, a faint smile crept onto his lips.
Kaeya's keen eyes caught that smile.
"Ha, what a rare sight. How many years has it been since I last saw you smile?"
"Ah, I suppose an adopted brother really can't compete with someone who just drops into your life!"
Kaeya raised an eyebrow at Diluc teasingly.
Diluc lowered