Slash commands are a great tool to have users type command without spamming. Replying with ephemeral message is great too. I was wondering if there is a way to send an ephemeral message to a user without using an Interaction. I want to initiate interaction not only via slash commands nor buttons, but with reactions, specific content in messages, member nickname updates etc... And then, once the message with buttons is sent, I can just reply to buttons' interaction. I know I can use the old way (directly dm the user), but it would be more convenient to have an ephemeral message directly in the same channel.
The only way I have found so far is having the user typing a command (or making any interaction that will act as an anchor point). And the later, when an ephemeral message is needed, make a follow up message from that interaction. The downside of this solution is the user has to make an interaction in all channels that would require spontaneous ephemeral message. And also, users have to do an interaction in the first place, which isn't very convenient when you want to deal with new users.