"Heh. Still so bold, even on Fatui territory?"
A cold, arrogant female voice echoed from within.
A woman in an elaborate black-and-white gown stepped forward, her upper face hidden behind a crown-like mask.
Cold authority radiated from her.
Keqing stiffened.
"Careful, Yi Chen. That's the Eighth Harbinger—La Signora, Rosalyne-Kruzchka Lohefalter."
But the moment Yi Chen heard that name—
He froze.
Rosalyne-Kruzchka Lohefalter?!
The name from an ancient Mondstadt legend—the Crimson Witch of Flames?!
He'd thought it was fiction!
His eyes lit up like a fan meeting an idol.
Ignoring all danger, he stepped forward.
"E-excuse me! Are you… the legendary Crimson Witch?"
"I—I'm your fan! I read your story a long time ago!"
La Signora: "…Huh?"
Even she was stunned.
She glanced at Childe, suddenly doubting his version of events.
This kid looks polite. Clean-eyed.
How is this the violent lunatic Childe described?
Keqing covered her face.
Childe nearly snapped his cane.
Yi Chen continued enthusiastically.
"Pure-love warrior! Lady Rosalyne, you're my idol! To devote yourself entirely for lost love—that's incredible!"
Something faint stirred within La Signora's frozen heart.
Her hostility softened—just a little.
"…Old stories aren't worth mentioning."
That was the closest thing to friendliness she'd shown in years.
After a pause, she spoke coldly:
"Our actions involve no schemes. Liyue's Qixing needn't worry."
Then she asked Yi Chen:
"Your name?"
"Yi Chen! From the Knights of Favonius!"
"And if you ever visit Mondstadt, I'll treat you to food!"
She turned and left without answering.
Childe limped after her, glaring.
Keqing exhaled deeply.
"…Let's eat. I promised."
Yi Chen beamed.
"Great! Can I confess eight more times during lunch?"
Keqing laughed.
"Don't push it."
Yi Chen was already planning his lines.