WhIP

by footfungus

nederlands verhalen over mijn otp

89. Chapter 89

Main Content5,237

A Song of Malice

neuvilletes

Summary:

"THEY HAVE WARNED YOU SO: THE HIGHER THE CLIMB, THE MORE PERILOUS THE FALL—"

The ducal house of Feiyun is known best for one thing and one thing only: wealth and in the Liyue Empire where transactions are blood and life themselves, wealth is power. You are the eldest daughter of House Feiyun, born with a golden spoon and an ignorance fostered by the blinding shimmer of the Feiyun ambition, you meet an unfortunate demise when your fiancé was found to be colluding with the survivors of the fallen kingdom, Khaenri'ah. In your last moments, you utter the first and only prayer you have made in your short but extravagant life: "Let time be undone that I may wash these treacherous roads with the blood of my transgressors!"

"—BUT AFTER BEARING THROUGH THE FLAMES OF HELL, WHAT ELSE IS THERE TO FEAR?"

Chapter 1: LÍNG — A CLOUDLESS NIGHT.

Chapter Text

Flying clouds—that is what the noble name Feiyun was translated to in the simplified version of the Liyuen dialect but frankly speaking, it was a name that need not be reduced for even the most illiterate to perceive the great weight it carried. Feiyun was gold and gold was Feiyun which was why it gained the affectionate moniker "House of Gold," a title that is coincidentally shared with one of the oldest and most comprehensive historical texts in Liyue's history. An excerpt from its introductory chapter reads: to foster an ambition as vast as the skies above, to amass riches enough to tower over the earth, to take flight boundlessly until the end of time, and to be akin to flying clouds touchable by none—that is what it means to be a Feiyun. That has yet to be changed or rather, none had garnered enough power to change it—not the Palace, not the nobility, not the common folk.

The reason behind the House of Gold's prestige can be traced back to a thousand years or so. House Feiyun was one of the five families that stood behind the first emperor of Liyue during the Great War that eventually divided the continent of Teyvat into seven regions. For many historians, Liyue would never have amassed the largest territory if not for House Feiyun's generous contributions to the war effort. Money, after all, is power and House Feiyun had a lot of it. In the present, House Feiyun remains strong and unyielding because it has long since extended its roots to the essential trades humanity could not go without and the dukes and duchesses of each passing generation had taken great care of these very roots though perhaps it would be far accurate to state that they were molded to do so.

In Feiyun, all the children of the main family receives the heirship training indiscriminately. After learning how to walk and speak, etiquette lessons consequently follow. After which are the dance lessons, tea ceremonies, accountancy, governance, and many others. Among all these activities, you'd have to say that calligraphy was one of the more enjoyable ones. It's where Madam Ping made you write a hundred times the words: gold conquers silver that conquers bronze. It's a rather roundabout method of declaring that not a single soul can look upon a Feiyun and think themselves better. Feiyun is Liyue's lifeline and Liyue is Teyvat's lifeline. If it falls, so too will the others like a ripple in the water or a leaf against a gentle breeze. Your mother was more direct, however. She simply pinned a golden brooch in the shape of a crane on the collar of your silk garments and told you to "keep your head held high" before shooing you off to your coming-of-age party.

Such words are indeed poisonous to a young mind, so who is to be surprised at the extravagance you've come to exude?

"My lady, your dress dons such a magnificent shade of blue! It is as radiant as the skies above. Pray tell, how did you manage to achieve such a color? If I am not mistaken, 'tis not a color I've seen on any of the maidens of our land."

"You are not mistaken, Lady Wanyan. To be honest, having it dyed blue was quite the ordeal but I had to! It is, after all, the color of Feiyun." You laugh, your fan slyly covering your arrogant smirk. "I had a contact from Sumeru Kingdom purchase the materials. However, it seems that the dye was notoriously tedious to gather and make so I had to pay thrice the price for the craftsmen to grind limestone, sand and azurite together. Even then, the perils for this insignificant piece of fabric did not cease. I paid double for their haste and another hefty sum for the toll. Still, I reckon it was all worth it. It did catch your eye, did it not? Shall I expect the young lady to pair with me sometime soon?"

"A-ah… I… shall speak with my father about it, my lady…"

You close your fan with a small 'tap' and a practiced smile. "Wonderful! Then, I shall leave you first and greet my next guests."

The noble lady bows in response but you do not miss the tight hold of envy on her neck. Truly, it was nigh impossible to bite back your glee when they make it so hard not to gloat.

"Sister…"

One entertainment after the other. Feiyun is truly rich in many things.

"Little brother! Have you come to wish me a happy birthday?"

He sends you a weak smile before he seeks your gloved hand to press a courteous kiss on it. "How can I let the night pass without paying my respects to my sister? May all your days be as joyful as tonight."

"Thank you, Xingqiu. I, too, wish you well. Although, I can't help but notice your gaze on my clothes. Brother, you're not jealous too, are you? Don't worry, you older sister would be more than happy to purchase you your own~"

"You jest too much, sister. However, as radiant as you look tonight in your garments… Is it not overshadowing your beauty? In my eyes, there is no jewel or stone more precious than your visage."

"Oh. my dear brother…" Your sweet smile makes Xingqiu's frown deepen. "Why must you need to shower me with pointless flatteries too when you can utter your honest thoughts with no consequence? I can never harm my sweet, little brother after all."

"Well then, I shall offer you my honesty for no penny. Sister, I believe that you have spent more than necessary with this garment alone. Think about it! A yard of this blue silk is enough to sustain our entire territory for a year! Do you not feel it better to share what we have to those in need? That is the noble thing to do, is it not?"

"Fifteen years and you have yet to learn how to speak my language. Such a shame…" A sigh spills out your tinted lips. "Xingqiu, we are ladies and lords of Feiyun. We have no business with consuming anything less than the best. Do not reign in your ambition. It is not so pleasing to the eyes."

"It's always about ambition with you, isn't it? But what about what is fair? What about justice?"

Your lips part, the corners twitching upwards in amusement. Justice was such a fickle thing when it is but an ill-controlled figment of imagination that makes none a single coin richer. It was a waste of time, in all actuality, and it is a shame that your younger brother, Xingqiu, seemed to disagree. Well, to each their own. At the end of the day, all are relatively simple once measured by the thing that they hold dearest. If Xingqiu were to be measured by the hands of justice, then he will be deemed a morally just fool and you? You would simply be rich in all things necessary to live a good life.

"You know what? All this talk is making me crave some rice pudding. Do you want to accompany me to the kitchens?"

"Rice pudding? Sister! The price of sugar is at an all-time high!"

You wave him off. "It's a good thing that we can afford it, then."

"You've exceeded your budget this month!" Xingqiu seethes as he tried to control his expression lest he draws unwanted attention from the guests.

"Is that so? Then I suppose you'll just have to share yours with me again. Thank you very much, dear."

"Ah!" He gasps. "You can't! I'm supposed to use my allowance for a charity event!"

"Charity?" You scrunch your nose.

"Yes, charity. Unlike yourself, some people think beyond one's greed."

You couldn't help but cackle at his words. "That very well may be. Do not fret, my little hero. Perhaps I'll buy this entire empire's sugar supply that the… less fortunate you so sweetly look after can at least be made aware of what a proper rice pudding tastes like."

Yes. You fanned yourself in thought. Not a single soul can look upon a Feiyun and think themselves better—not even another Feiyun. Xingqiu's mouth was left agape as you suddenly left him be by himself, the clicks of your shoes drifted farther and farther with each step. Fortunately, or unfortunately for he now donned an exasperated furrow on his brows comparable only to the weary souls decades older than he was, Xingqiu has long gotten used to your behavior. This in particular or when you would roll your eyes disinterestedly when you attention is no longer piqued, were some of what he loathes the most.

Now, you were far from ignorant. You knew that influence breeds envy, and envy breeds hate, and hate is a dangerous thing, indeed. Perhaps that was why you still tried to own at least some semblance of kindness. You do humor Xingqiu's wax poetry sometimes, and your eldest brother isn't too hard to please either. Just a little advice on managing the family's finances and he's already professing his eternal gratitude. Well, it couldn't be helped, you supposed. You were always better with money. Was it a surprise? Far from it. The moment your father gave you a single gold coin to fiddle with, you were entranced. Yes, that was the day you decided to become rich—nay, the richest.

Rich in currency, in admiration, and soon, in power, you mused to yourself as you eye the large, polished sapphire on your finger that glinted under the light of the sun. This ring, too, had its share of history. It belonged to the late Marchioness of House Caeli and before her, it belonged to the duchess she succeeded and so on and so forth. They call it the Jewel of the Lake. It was a ring crafted by a master jeweler for his wife once upon a time but her foolish eyes could not discern its true worth. She threw it into the lake in an angry fit only to be fished by the ancestor of the Marquis family when his injured self wished to take but a sip of water after a long war within their territory. Since then, the Jewel of the Lake became one of the fourteen treasures of their House or so that Marquis Ajax said. You couldn't care less, not too dissimilar to how you excused its rather… vintage design in lieu of the symbolic meaning it held.

You lean back into the cushion backrest of your seat, happily squirming around as the sweet taste of strawberries hit your tongue.

This tiny little thing marked your being as the next Marchioness of House Caeli which was presently known as the most fearsome household in Teyvat. Their military strength has always been unparalleled as far as historians were aware and that has only been made more prominent when your fiancé took over his sickly father's duties. You remember faintly hearing your father speak of him as the greatest talent born in nearly two centuries, possessing enough battle savviness and bloodlust to quell the rebellions in the northern borders of the Empire of Snezhnaya. He's the prized piece of the Tsaritsa, and soon, he shall be yours. Marquis Ajax of House Caeli… Indeed, he'd make a fine stepping stone to becoming the most powerful woman in Teyvat. Sure, it displeases you that you must be known as a marchioness only, but even an empress would be no different from a peasant without money and might. And well, it helps that the Marquis is not horrible to look at.

"My lady—" his youthful grin makes a reappearance as he tips his head to place a kiss on your skin. He lingers longer than what is deemed appropriate, something you quirked your brow at— "we meet again."

"Marquis… Your travel has not been short. Perhaps you should've paid me a visit after you've given yourself some respite."

"You underestimate me greatly if you think a little ride would tire me out."

A small amused noise leaves your lips at his cheeky words.

"Is that so? My apologies, my lord. I meant no offense."

The Marquis hums in recognition of your words before stealing a bite of your food and settling on the expanse of your loveseat. "'Tis not a problem, my lady, but I am a mere man in front of your incomparable grace. I will not deny myself a little favor if you so wish to repay back your debts."

He is not horrible to look at… Not even close… That is the first thought that crossed your mind as you meet his lax pose. With one arm hanging on the top of the couch, legs spread wide as he uses his free hand to tap his thigh in an invitation, the Marquis—no, Ajax looked just as playful as ever. It brought you a peculiar bliss, thoroughly enjoying the role of a wolf in sheep's clothing that you seemed to take in each one of your interactions.

So you approach.

You situate yourself in between his legs, an innocent smile decorating your face in stark contrast with the mischievous glint in your eyes. The electrifying feeling that seemed to make your limbs feel like jelly only intensified now that you could feel his warmth seeping into your clothes. The mirth in his eyes was clear as he teasingly brushed his clothed fingers over your exposed neck. Was this normal? The refreshing scent of his cologne reaches you, reminding you faintly of the open sea and the fresh breeze. The butterflies in your stomach flaps its wings once.

"How pretty," he whispers as his hand slides up to cup your cheeks. "I bet you're enjoying this."

"Very."

He chuckles darkly and it sends shivers down your spine. Nerves warn you to pull away but how exciting was it to be held so tenderly by a man who could end you in a second should he wish to? Ajax moves to grip your soft face in his hand, pressing just a little so your glossy lips were all puckered. Your heart skips a beat and for all the wrong reasons too.

"Look at me, yeah?"

You tried blinking away the newfound haze in your eyes to peer into his clearly. Those eyes you detest so much—those empty, unreadable eyes of his that made you oh so curious of mysteries you'd rather be ignorant of. Do they light up when in the battlefield? Or do they grow dark with need the same way he was looking at you now? The Marquis sighs in pleasure as he feels your own hand crawl teasingly up his nape.

"Finally fighting back?"

"What if you've already lost?"

You use your spare hand to push him back into the seat, trapping him between your knees as your dress rides up just a little tauntingly up. He notices. Of course, he does and it is such a lovely feeling to be adored so preciously that he tugs away his gloves to feel the skin of your thighs on his own. Breaths—both his and yours—hitch when he suddenly tugs your closer to him. You feel warm air brush over your lips and a need arises. Ravage him, beat him, use him for your own gain… All familiar feelings but emphasized just as how you could feel the rapid beats of his own heart over your chest.

"That so?" He smiles, eyes unmoving from your lips that were now securely trapped in between your teeth. "But I don't believe this is the face of a victor."

You only shake your head, the movement making your lips brush ever so slightly against his. Albeit brief, you swear you could taste the pudding on his lips, and you wonder if he shared the same sensation with yours.

"My lady? The seamstress is here for the appointment for your wedding dress. Lord Xingqiu is asking for your haste."

Without a single second of hesitance, you pull away from your fiancé who was caught off balance from your sudden movement. The way he gapes at you is much amusing, is what you thought as you sent him a sweet smile, looking far from disheveled despite earlier's events. "I win."

You were referring to… Your eyes briefly slipped down, down to his unbuttoned shirt and… You giggle, hiding behind your palm before setting off to meet with your impatient little brother. Before you leave, however, you spare him another glance, laughing once more when you see him groan into his palms.

"Feel free to stay here as long as you need, my lord, and if you find anything that may be of use to you… Please… Be my guest."

"You minx."

Without sparing him another glance, you leave your room, already anticipating what you'll be greeted with when you return.

You decided that you wouldn't be meeting with the seamstress halfway through your small journey. Truthfully, you pity Xingqiu who would have to deal with talking to the seamstress entrusted to make your diamond encrusted wedding gown but it was not nearly enough to make you bear through a boring appointment. You were far too pleased with how well your day was turning out for such matters. Besides, you have long since diverged paths and his of servitude is only the consequence of his lack of ambition. Not quite a true Feiyun in your eyes.

Everything is falling into place, you muse to yourself as you find yourself situated in the garden instead. How magnificent would the sight of the commoners' agape mouths be, praying to Celestia above that a single piece of your jewels would fall to the muddy floor for their picking? Or how marvelous would be the stares of envy from the aristocrats be, knowing that they will never, not even in their wildest dreams, reach the height you have risen to? How exciting, you couldn't help but smile as you trailed a hand over the rose's petals. Its scent clings to your skin and you believed that to be a sign that you shall be walking a flowery road in the future as well.

It is truly a shame, therefore, that a golden tower stacked by a fool will topple faster than a house of cards.

Monday. 31st of the 1st month of the fifth year under the Moraxian calendar. An imperial order has been declared.

"Purge all that threatens the security of our empire! Execute those who dare speak of treason under my protection, and let their rotting corpses be the reminder that none will escape the punishment for trampling on our everlasting glory!"

Eight in the morning when your day has barely even begun, and Xingqiu was dragging you to the direction of Yaoguang Shoal. He muttered of a boat heading towards the far lands of Inazuma—a place that, while merciless to outsiders, would prove to be far more merciful than your own motherland will be to you. He tried so hard, your poor brother, but before you could step foot outside of your home, your Empire's soldiers were already throwing your entire bedroom upside down.

"Ah—! Not the antiques!"

You could vaguely hear your mother shout before she, too, was dragged away. The abrupt awakening and the frenzied state of your home felt like a bucket of ice water being poured on you unceremoniously. It made your head hurt, made your fingers stiffen as you frigidly approached the direction of your mother. You freeze when the screams from the maids made your ears buzz with a numbing white noise. How irritating, and even more so, the fragments of glass and porcelain that poked through your bare skin.

"Stop! It hurts!"

"Please!"

"No, no! I have a family! Spare me!"

Why were they doing this?

"I'm just a maid! I don't know anything!"

"I'll confess to the Lady's crimes so please!"

What were they saying?

"How dare you barge into our house uninvited!?"

You were a Feiyun. How can they do this to you?

Your thoughts were cut off when rough hands twisted your arm and you were harshly tugged away. You wanted to scream but no words can come out. There was just the mess, the broken vases and wasted millions on the floor, and the growing pain on your shoulder. It was too loud and yet, too quiet. You could make out the words but your mind was too busy and too empty to comprehend anything. What was this feeling? You close your eyes and you could see the sharp fangs of a snake and you… a mere prey could not move at all, only holding a breath, petrified for what you know will come.

It was so loud. There were screams everywhere. There was blood all over the floor and bruises over your once unharmed skin. So why weren't they stopping? Why are they pulling you by the arm, head spinning and flushed from the overwhelming feeling all around you?

"Unhand my sister this instant!"

"By order of His Imperial Majesty, you are to be executed at sundown for your collusion with Ajax Caeli and the rebels from old Khaenri'ah."

Ajax Caeli and his eyes that reminded you of the ocean—the very same ocean you believe your head was stuck under of. You kept quiet even as Xingqiu resisted, thrashing about. You did not see your father but surely, surely he must be doing something to reverse this treatment, right? No, one looks down on a Feiyun and all of them—! These uneducated guards, your useless maids—! All of them will meet punishment from your own hands!

A stone hits your head. You wince, wiggling one arm free when you feel a sickly warmth dripping down the side of your head. Bile crawls up your throat, the icy feeling in your fingers coming back when you see it. Blood. Your blood. The metallic scent makes you gag and the people around you only laugh. Only Xingqiu calls out your name, his voice laced with fear and concern. What a fool… He isn't in any position to worry about anyone but himself, you think to yourself despite sending him a small comforting smile that came out more of a wince.

There is much humor to be found in how the truth ceases to be of importance once one is threatened by unknown forces. Treason? Collusion? You knew nothing! You had your own inconsiderations and greed but not once had you dreamt of this Empire's fall! You laugh helplessly as you shake the rusted bars of your cell. They had thrown you inside with only this pitch black darkness and the scent of the sewer to accompany you. The guard spoke of nothing—not even an apology for ripping your velvet dress when he was manhandling you—nor did he come in to check on you even when you screamed your throat out. See? Justice is worth nothing, not a penny, not a single life.

Your family didn't deserve this. You didn't deserve this but justice was nowhere in sight anyway.

You couldn't count how long you were alone for but soon, a soldier entered once again. He stands in front of your cell for a minute longer. For a moment, hope was lit in you anew but that was quickly shattered when he dragged you out with a harshness so foreign to you. He spares you a glance. One from your head to your toe and you shrink even more to yourself when you become acutely aware of how underdressed you were. Noticing your discomfort and maybe deciding to spare you the last fragment of your pride, the soldier throws you his cape and you scramble to wrap it around your exposed skin. Were you supposed to be grateful for this? You glared at the soldier whose gaze returned yours with strict indifference. With you now collected, his hand once again finds your bruised wrist.

"Keep up the pace."

Alas, the golden hour has come. You climb the last step of the wooden platform and was met with the sight of a cheering crowd. What a brilliant sight indeed. Not once in your short life had you witnessed an event where nobility and common folk joined together despite their differences. You smile bitterly. What two-faced worms! In the crowd, you spot the furious visage of the heiress of House Yinyuan—the very same lady who once told you of her supreme admiration towards your unblemished self; your best friend. Hah! What a joke! Loyalty is a currency too, it seems, and you are proven to be poor in this regard.

"Death to the traitors! Death to the unsympathetic! Death to the House of Gold!"

What fools! How can they lull themselves to a false sense of security when the enemy is all but knocking on their doors! House Caeli, Snezhnaya, Khaenri'ah—!

Wait.

Marquis Caeli is missing.

"Ha... hahaha...ha...! You fools! You fools! All of you!"

Salt fills your mouth and it seeps down to your heart. The list of names that have acquired your molten wrath is ever increasing by the second. Impolite curses fall past your lips in a string but what does it matter? The end draws near and you count three heads before your turn.

"Sister..."

You turn to your darling brother... Ah... This child... This strong-willed child is trembling…

What a powerful weapon this thing called regret was. It stabs into your heart and catches the torn tissues in its thorns before it drags out and stabs once more. Again and again, regret makes your chest throb and buzzing bees sting inside your empty stomach. What a horrible thing indeed, to be blinded by ambition—to be born a Feiyun whose heart can only truly pursue this thing called "power."

"Ah, my poor brother... Your sister can only beg for your forgiveness..."

He shakes his head only to freeze when—

You shiver when something rolls to your feet. What was that…? You hesitate to look when you feel that sickly warmth once again on your soles.

"B-Brother!" Xingqiu suddenly wails, fresh tears pouring out his reddened and swollen eyes. Shaking hands reach out to… He was pulled back by his hair and he yelps. His exclamation made you turn your back sharply, doing everything in your power to avoid the nightmarish sight of your siblings' suffering…

THUD!

"MOTHER!"

Swiftly, you dragged your brother into your chest, snarling at the guard who dared look at you in surprise. He was about to reach for him back but the soldier who escorted you shook his head once, and the guard stilled, only looking at you warily with a hand poised near his sword as if you had anywhere to run to in this cursed Empire.

"Don't look, Xingqiu. Your eyes are not made to witness this cruel world."

"Sister… I—"

"Shh… It'll be alright. I'm still here…"

"I'm scared. Mother and Brother…"

"Xingqiu."

The cheers kept on coming with each thud and so to did the anger that you nurtured in your heart.

"If I could turn back the time, I would treat you kindly, my dear brother! No longer will these eyes of mine be veiled with ignorance! This time, I shall be the one to protect you." You grin mercilessly—like true Feiyun. A cloud untouchable, equal parts beautiful and devastating. "This time, it will not be our blood that will be flowing down this empire's roads!"

So gods above, if you are real and if you are worthy of even a single drop of this fool's tears, recognize my will and grant me the impossible!

The dull blade hangs tauntingly above your neck and you could only scoff in disgust. How unbefitting of Feiyun to be judged not by the sky but by the sunken earth carried by the footsteps of those who concocted this boring conspiracy. Truly, if you knew that dancing with the masked figure that is the Marquis would lead to such a tragic ending, you would've never desired the sapphire that pales in comparison to the river blue that is your house's honor. What a shame. That horrible feeling of regret once again comes, but you have grown used—numb—to it.

"If you could turn back the time, sister, please remember—!"

Ah, the stars sure are shining brightly tonight—free from any of the clouds that once enshrouded them.

THUMP!

Chapter 2: YĪ — A HALF-EMPTY SÉANCE.

Summary:

[ First Act ] — " The Crane That Cried Gold "

Once, there was a crane whose ignorance was unparalleled.
However, there came a day when she could only weep.
And weep.
And weep some more.
When her tears have halted, she bemoaned her fate.
The tears she shed hardened;
And she made a vow.
This time, it would not be her who weeps.

Notes:

[ DISCLAIMER ! ] — This chapter contains vivid descriptions of violence, gore, and substance use. Read at your own discretion.

Chapter Text

The fresh scent of roses flittered through the air, varnishing all that it touches with a sultry appeal. A pleased sigh escapes your lips as you stretch your back. The room is silent save for the small ripples in the tub and the soft squelch of suds as nimble hands work your hair from behind. This was the life of luxury—the kind that you've become used to. You reach out to grab one of the floating petals, twisting and twirling it between your fingers in thought. Oh, for you know how fickle this luxury is; going from a norm to a mere miasma of the past in mere seconds. The warm water that brushed through your skin turned into blood that trickled down your head in seconds, the metallic scent overpowering the scented oils you've used the night prior.

Monday. 31st of the 1st month of the 5th year under the Moraxian calendar.

They took and they took and they took. They took your riches. They took your family. They took your affection. They took your trust. They took your will. They took your pride. Though far be it for the greedy to be content for in the end, when you were stripped of everything that you were save for your breath, they took that too, and gloated and danced as your blood dripped down the empire's roads, mixing with your mother's and your brother's and the rest of your family's. Innocence be damned, dark slits curved in delight were all that you could see in your final moments and what a horrible sight it was.

It came to you in a dream roughly five months ago. The events of the past making you jolt awake with a scream that made your attendants come piling in with fright. You were many things, indeed, but the Lady of Feiyun that they've come to know had never trembled in front of anything—not even one of the ferocious outbursts of the Duke when he was once again displeased with the other aristocrats' work. Ah, but Xingqiu notes that the glaze in your eyes then was fear. Your shaking did not cease nor did you bat an eye at the little, expensive things that used to bring you much joy. Those were useless in front of the eyes of death. So one blood-curdling scream to the next, you asked to be left alone and to never be touched which made concern wash over the face of even your stone-faced mother.

It was too raw, too real, too vivid to be called a spun tale. The wounds of betrayal that turned into the loud ridicule and cheers for your suffering had made you wish for a swift death. Oh, but who was fate to entertain your ignorant will? The cheers of the crowd grew even louder as the same wails slipped out of your lips. It was not a swift death. The dull blade severed skin and muscle sending a sharp pain through your body. Blood spurted out and even as you cried—stop then make it faster then please—the sound of the lever was appallingly slow especially when it got jammed somewhere. You pondered through your pain-infested mind if you would sooner die of blood loss than a severed head. You meet their gazes then. The Tianquan's unimpressed frown, the Yunheng's snarl, and Lady Wanyan's pleased grin. It was only when you vaguely made contact with her eyes, black spots already obscuring your vision that the blade fell once more. Perhaps that was their final mercy for you could not bear to be stripped of even the final shards of your dignity.

"My lady? Are you alright?" A voice gentle yet free of emotions tore you out of your grotesque nostalgia. Blinking away the haze that has befallen your eyes, the petal you've toyed with has long been crumpled and torn under your silent wrath. An amused scoff leaves you as you leaned back into the tub once more.

"I've never been better, Shenhe."

Shenhe, your handmaiden, merely blinks in response. Oh, but she has always been easy to read even under her expressionless face. It was her eyes that tell, you surmise. Those colorful irises that glimmered each time she attempted to push down her curiosity were always so beautiful and expressive.

"If you have something to say, you may."

"...It's nothing much, my lady," she mutters as she tips her head low, strands of her pristine white hair slipping off her braid. "Just that... You seem to be different."

You hum, resting your head in your palm whilst you couldn't help but eye her in amusement. "In a good way, I hope?"

"Of course, my lady."

"You're adorable." You giggle but a sudden memory dampens your delight. Allegiances always ask for a lofty price in the end and, perhaps, this woman and her young nephew paid the brunt of it. "Shenhe, when the time comes that someone threatens to cut you down for your loyalty to Feiyun... Do not think twice before turning your back on us. Save yourself."

"No."

You gawk at her. "...Excuse me?"

"I'm afraid I cannot fulfill your request, my lady."

You frown at her indifferent stance. It was in moments like these that Shenhe was nigh impossible to read.

"Why not?"

"I owe Feiyun my life. If it is desired once more because of this house, then it is something I will gladly offer."

Silence befalls the room as Shenhe finishes drying your hair. With a bitter and yet, relieved sigh, you decided to leave the topic at that. You suppose you could just work twice as hard to make sure that those two would not meet such a tragic end in this life too.

"I'm done, my—" A quick succession of knocks interrupts her. Shenhe turns to you, and with a mere nod, she stood up and approached the wooden sliding door that separated you from your main chambers.

"I greet Your Ladyship a fine morning." Your guest curtsies before motioning at the pile of papers she carried with a stiff smile. "I was under the impression that my lady would be meeting with me in her office, not in her bath."

"Well, Lady Iustitia, I have learned that I have a penchant for surprises. Shenhe!" Your retainer bows before swiftly helping you into your robe. You could vaguely make out Yanfei's displeased grumbles before she steps back into your room when she got the confirmation that you would soon follow.

Yanfei was the eldest daughter of House Iustitia whose patriarch presently served as the Chancellor of the Liyue Empire. Well, that was how it looked on paper, at the very least. Lord Iustitia was many things and he wasn't exactly horrible at his job per se. It's just that every person in the loops of things knows that there is a greater woman behind every great man. In his case, it was Marchioness Iustitia but her ingenious ways have similarly been passed down to her daughter who knows every corner and alley of Liyue's daytime affairs.

You fiddled with the seams of your robe, a pleased smile plastered flawlessly on your face as you approached Yanfei's seated form. It was only by Lady Luck's will that she was one of your family's allies. Similarly, it was only because of your mother's conniving tongue that she was sparing you her precious time and helping you reacquaint yourself with the government's affairs after you swore to never spend another day thinking of work in your past life. Either way, it'd be quite the troublesome ordeal if you had to deal with her too, you muse as you clasp your hands together.

"Well then, shall we begin today's work?"

"My lady," Yanfei leans forward in intrigue, "how well do you know Liyue's affairs?"

Your smile falters. "I know my fair share."

"...Let's talk about economics since that's what you seem to be most versed in. The sugar prices—"

"I'm aware of this. It's been rising as of late, hasn't it? It's been causing quite the clamor even among the aristocracy." You remember the former Xingqiu's words vaguely. He had chastised you then for overspending, and while your ignorant self couldn't bring yourself to care about "measly" matters, it was certainly quite odd for the prices to hike that much upon further thought. Granted, sugar was never a common resource that even the common folk could hoard but its scarcity now is still quite bewildering.

"Are you aware of the reason behind it?"

Your brows furrowed subconsciously as you eyed the strange grimness in Yanfei's eyes. "Well, it always boils down to supply and demand, doesn't it? Since the Yuheng is the only body who oversees the production of sugar in the rural areas of the Empire, it would make sense why they wouldn't be able to cope with the sudden spike of demand for their product."

"But why?" The emphasis on her question vaguely reminds you of Madam Ping's exasperation during your childhood lessons. "Why is there a sudden demand for sugar when my lady has told me herself that sugar isn't exactly a demanded product?"

You did not reply and Yanfei smiles almost victoriously. Even in little things, to hold something over your head was a thing to be honored about.

"Have you heard of Orobaxi?"

"Orobaxi..." You pursed your lips. "That is one of the primordial serpent gods of Inazuma, correct?"

"Correct, but it is also the name of a new underground hallucinogen that's circulating in the market."

"Drugs? In Liyue?"

"And in Inazuma." Yanfei sent you a hinting gaze that made your lips quirk up.

"What is the Tianquan thinking, allowing something like that to be widespread in the Empire?"

"If I may intrude..." You glance at Shenhe who has been silently preparing tea all this time. "I think I may know someone who is under the influence of that drug."

"Do they work under Feiyun?"

Shenhe nods. "I reported it to the Head Maid as soon as I saw him but he mentioned something about 'wanting to not think of anything' when he was trying to convince me out of telling."

"Exactly." Yanfei sighs. "The Tianquan can do very little even after collaborating with the Chancery because it's the people who seek it by all means possible. You may not understand this, my lady, but an average man is plagued with many struggles. They'd take a bite at anything that would provide them a moment of respite, no matter the cost."

Your silence fills the room before you ultimately sigh and take a sip of your tea, clearing your throat of all the words you could've said in response. "What does this have to do with the sugar?"

"Orobaxi is rather potent. It's short-term effects are not too different with the other more established drugs but the long-term effects are..." Yanfei nibbles on her lip. "Medical examiners believe that it causes persistent psychosis and there is no treatment for it. What they prescribe instead are regulatory pills to control withdrawal symptoms. Sugar is one of the primary ingredients it uses."

"That's strange... If it's well-known enough to be studied by professionals, why isn't the Palace issuing an official statement yet?"

"A gag order has been placed by the Emperor." Yanfei glanced between you and Shenhe. "Or so the rumors say."

You frown. "Rumors? You don't know?"

"Unfortunately, no."

The gears in your head began spinning. He who was dubbed as the Undying Sun of the Empire, Emperor Morax Dei Rex Lapis. He was seldom seen in social circles but the few times you've managed to catch a glimpse of him, he appeared as the picturesque definition of nobility and grace. It was hard to reconcile that image of him with the bloodied pages he left on history books. The Emperor, though deprived not of beauty nor elegance in his visage, was a mere rebel hailing from a deposed royal lineage until five years ago when he marched upon the palace's doors and slaughtered the former Emperor, his concubines, and his heirs, leaving not even one alive. The clamor of the citizens was relatively hushed. That lineage, after all, has long since been sullied by foolish, incompetent pests who fed on the subservient mindsets of the people. But above all things, House Feiyun had averted their gaze from the regicide. Who is anyone to bear mention of it? Emperor Morax of the Liyue Empire. It had a nice ring to it. An emperor who is both wise and kind, yet unyielding in front of even the brightest gold when faced with disloyalty. He was that kind of man; the kind that did not bat an eye before cutting the strings that he found frayed and the kind that cruelly uttered his wish to see an entire family dead before sundown.

Red stained lips twitched upwards, painting a monstrous shadow over your demeanor. Yanfei and Shenhe could only shiver in their place when they spot the clearing mist over your eyes that similarly sought bloodshed. "My dear Emperor... What kind of secrets are you hiding?"

"...My lady..." Yanfei trailed off as she played with the corner of her files. "You're not planning treason, are you?"

"Treason? Me?"

You cackled.

"I would never."

Yanfei did not seem convinced but if so, she made no move to voice it. Instead, she watched as you motioned for Shenhe, whispering something intangible to her and well... She, too, was a lady of noble background. She knew that some things are better left in the dark especially when you are dealing with someone as unreadable as the so-called Crane of Feiyun.

Having finished giving your directives, you haphazardly dismiss Shenhe who makes sure to bow before leaving to do whatever was asked of her. Yanfei would be lying if she said her curiosity wasn't piqued but she quickly shook such troublesome thoughts away. The risk of being pecked to death was not quite worth her satiation.

"Moving forward, if I may be so bold to offer you advice, my lady... I believe it would do you well to get under the Duke's good graces." Yanfei takes your quiet humming as a sign to continue. "It'll help you with that... 'want' you told me of."

"Is something brewing in the Palace?"

Yanfei firmly nods, hands crumpling the pile of files on her lap slightly. "I have grounds to believe that they'll be formally investigating the economic fluctuation soon."

An investigation... You shuffle through the heap of memories from your past life for anything similar. Such a grand scale investigation wouldn't have been made possible if the Emperor himself wished to keep it under the wraps, and only the five ducal families could potentially have the resources and authority to prod at the Empire's official matters while maintaining secrecy. Given the nature of the issue, it would make sense for Feiyun to lead it but to your recollection, no such investigation occurred. Why?

You tap your fingers on the armrest impatiently. Your father wouldn't have any reason to not accept the Imperial edict. Was it your older brother? While it's true that he was never confrontational, the Duke of Feiyun would never spoil his heir to the degree of helping him avoid every uncomfortable situation. Did your father know something? Did he already conduct an investigation prior to the Emperor's order that made him aware of things he cannot allow to be divulged?

"My lady?" Yanfei hesitantly calls out as she spies on the contorted expression you wore.

"Yanfei..." You start. "How did this drug come to be?"

"I'm afraid I cannot say much. All I know is that it was manufactured by foreigners."

"Ha...Haha...Hahahahaha!"

Yanfei flinches as your manic laughter spread through the quiet chamber. You've curled up on yourself, slapping your lap in the midst of your uncontrollable fit. With the same caution of a porcelain-maker, your guest adjusts her clothes while clearing her throat. It's suffocating inside, she notes as she watches you wipe your fresh tears from your eyes. She's heard of how odd you've been as of late but seeing you like this truly made her question your sanity. Was it still wise to align herself with someone like you?

"How amusing! It seems that I better see through your advice, friend. If I want to stay alive, that is."

She could only nod hesitantly as she couldn't make heads or tails with your words. Ah, but... Your eyes... Yanfei swallows the gasp that sent excited tingles down her spine. Missing in them are the exuberant, childish vice that she has come to get used to. Instead, she could only spot the faint outline of a cunning snake waiting for its prey to play onto its hands. Yanfei hides her smile behind her palms. Perhaps it was true, indeed, that birds of the same feather flock together. That ambition to swallow the entire world... Yanfei was suddenly reminded of why her allegiance was with you even when you were throwing away power without thought, much to her dismay.

"My lady, we have arrived."

With the tip of your fan, you parted the curtains that obscured the outsiders' view of the carriage's contents though that didn't stop the onlookers' hushed whispers. Your eyes meet one of them and they immediately looked away, busying themselves with their cart before walking into the crowd that was slowly forming. Their curiosity, of course, wasn't entirely unwarranted. Very few members of the nobility, especially those on the upper echelons, had business in Chihu Rock. There is, after all, a certain pride that comes with having the business owners come to their doorstep and not the other way around.

You should be used to this, you think, but for some reason, your hands are trembling. The curtain falls back into place, securing you from the unwanted attention that you garnered and the sigh of relief that almost pools out of you left your mouth bitter. Their stares leave no delight. Not anymore. Instead, it has painfully inserted in you only to wiggle uncomfortably underneath your skin. How gratifying it would be to be skinned alive instead of bearing through this. The stares, then the laughter, then the cheers, then the dance as if your blood that has filled the gaps of their shoes' soles was a bountiful reward.

Your brother gave you not another moment to dwell on your pathetic past. He was making it hard not to glare when he has been not-so-quietly muttering to himself ever since you dragged him inside your carriage.

"Something on your mind, Little Brother?"

"Why are we here?"

You bite back. "Why not?"

"Sister..." He sighs and you found sadistic delight in the tired aftermath in his amber-colored eyes. "You and I both know that this isn't your preferred kind of endeavor."

"It is not. I'd be lying if I said I am not anxious of what our near future holds. However—" You pause. What can you possibly say that would make sense to this untroubled soul?

"Sister?"

"...I find comfort in the fact that I am able to share such anxieties with you still. Let's leave it at that."

Xingqiu's gaze burns you even when his lashes fluttered against the soft skin under his eyes. It was when he was staring at you like this that you're reminded of how young he actually was. Reaching over, your lips formed an uncharacteristic somber smile as you tap the chub on his cheek affectionately. "Do not fret over everything your sister does, Xingqiu. I'm much more knowing than I appear to be."

Retreating back to yourself, you send a curt nod towards Shenhe who knocked on the wooden walls of the carriage for you. As cued, one of your family's knights opened the door, offering a hand to guide you down the steps of the vehicle. You spared your younger brother one last look before approaching the jade seller who happened to be one of the few you consider to be worthy of your time.

Shitou scrambles to give you a deep bow, all but folding himself over the dirty pebble stone floor to offer you his respect. "My lady! Had I known you would be gracing this lowly man your presence today, I would've packed up and headed to you instead!"

"Spare me the flatteries, Shitou. Is there anything you wish to show me?"

At the prospect of earning, Shitou jumps up and tosses through his things with an energy you find to be scarce in any other day, hearing of all sorts of tales from your maids whose ears have grown tired of listening to him whine about his back pains and what not. The things people do for money... You pity this man who will likely bemoan his pain throughout the coming night just to maintain your patronage.

"I recently managed to get my hands on this full cor lapis jade! It's such a rarity that I thought of keeping it for good luck but for you, my lady, I'd gladly give it for five thousand mora!"

"Five?" You lean closer with a snarl, effectively making the merchant sweat. "Are you trying to swindle me just because I have mora to spare?"

"N-no! Not at all!" Shitou glances at the onlookers and Xingqiu who was gaping at you in bewilderment. It's not like you ever cared about being taken for granted or not, believing that it didn't matter since it wouldn't be a dent on your purse anyway.

"Keep it. Today, your good luck appears to be limited to being spared a trip to the Millelith's headquarters. Shenhe," your handmaiden bows, "find me a seat there."

You pointed to Third-Round Knockout, a small tavern of sorts that was quite renowned among the common folk. In your past life, you bought the location from its owners for thrice the price because it infuriated you that your servants would dally before buying whatever you asked them to buy for you. You smirk as you turned on your heel away from Jade Mystery. Perhaps it would be worth your time to learn what all the fuss was about before jumping into any unnecessary actions in this life.

"Well? What do you want?" You ask, one legged crossed over the other as you skimmed through the menu. Opposite of you, Xingqiu squirmed in his seat, small creaks from the wooden chair emanating with each movement.

"I'll have a cup of tea."

"Nothing else?"

Xingqiu makes a noise of confirmation and you motion for a nearby waiter to approach. Like Shitou, he walked over in haste but you reckon that their energy stemmed from two entirely different reasons. "Two cups of tea, one of your bestseller, and a spare chair."

"E-excuse me, Madam?"

You send the timid waiter a smile before gesturing towards your left. "For a guest I wish to treat."

As if recognizing that you were referring to him, a low chuckle breaks the tense silence in the air before brisk footsteps clicked against the floor, adding twice to that reserved tension. Your guest elegantly slides himself to your right, a close-eyed, polite smile lifting his flushed cheeks. How pretty, you couldn't help but notice. The sunlight scatters upon his head, making his crown of light azure glow akin to an angelic halo. He puts the jade you were eyeing to shame and a deep flicker of greed sparks in you. It'd be nice to run a hand through such silk-like strands even if just once.

"Fancy meeting you here, Ambassador Kamisato."

The man places a hand tenderly on his chest, tipping his head lightly in greeting. "It is to my pleasure, Lady and Lord Feiyun. Truth be told, I didn't think I would catch your eye when I was merely passing by."

"How could you not when you hold yourself so well? Thank you for accepting my invitation."

"On the contrary, thank you for extending your invitation." Ayato smiles that same reserved kind that makes your muscles tense. It's always the well-kept people who are most dangerous. Then again, danger is attractive. "I hope I am not intruding on your time together?"

"Not at all, my lord. Your presence is quite the welcome addition." Xingqiu replies before he blows the steam off his tea.

"As my brother said. Now tell me, how is Liyue treating you?"

Another laugh escapes his lips but this time, he inches just a bit closer. His sudden movement made you gather a whiff of his perfume. It's nice. Rich with the after tones of vanilla and spice and maybe even the cherry blossoms his homeland boasts. It was dangerous to be so close especially when so many surround you whose lips are as loose as a broken door's hinges, however, it was even more dangerous to part and find yourself with a craving for more. You blame it on his alluring eyes—eyes that desperately try to read you through your casual demeanor. A part of you is curious of what conclusions he'll find so you rest your head on your palm, tilting it slightly so you can peer into him deeper through the shade of your lashes.

"It is very different from Inazuma but it is beautiful in its own way. I find the cuisines most filling and the people, generous and kind. I am having quite the time of my life or so the poets say."

"That is good to hear." You drawl as your gaze dropped lower.

"Ehem—"

You both turned to Xingqiu who discreetly sent you a questioning glare. Giggling, you leaned back and replaced the distance that should've been between the two of you from the get-go. The Ambassador didn't seem to notice your interaction and if he did, he kept it to himself because he, too, was amused. Just in time, his food arrived, a bowl of wine-fermented sweet rice balls.

"I hope you like your sweets, Ambassador."

"I do. I quite adore the dango from home."

"Is that so?" Your eyes narrowed into slits as you flash a smile that, in retrospect, is not to dissimilar to a predator preparing to pounce on its prey. "I'm sure you miss the delicacies of Inazuma. Have you tried importing them here?"

"...The Empire's importation policies are quite thorough. I'm not sure a little homesickness is worth quite the effort."

"Then how about you let us try? Just a little favor from a friend."

The Ambassador chuckles awkwardly, pushing one rice ball as he pondered over his reply. "Well... Even so, I believe it would be difficult."

"How so? Given Feiyun's standing, I believe that procuring a few ingredients shouldn't be such an ordeal." You mentally applaud Xingqiu for helping you prompt a useful response from the man even if he, too, was unaware of your intent.

"Inazuma is currently limiting international relations for... well, various reasons but with Feiyun's extensive network, I am quite certain that my m'lady and m'lord have heard of Inazuma's... predicament these days. Her Majesty has decided to focus on domestic growth for the sake of the people."

The way he curled his fingers into a fist did not go unnoticed but you retained a clueless demeanor, pushing the bowl closer to him instead. "I see, I see... Well, don't let us keep you from eating. Do tell me if it's to your liking. Everything is my treat today."

"Ah, then... Thank you for the food."

Domestic growth be damned. You'd bet your entire fortune that the reason behind Empress Ei's sudden declaration of a lockdown was Orobaxi.

Chapter 3: ÈR — A WALTZ WITHOUT GRACE.

Notes:

[ DISCLAIMER ! ] — This chapter contains implicit suggestive content. Read at your own discretion.

Chapter Text

The Empire was only second to the Sumeru Kingdoms when it comes to having preserved the longest period of history in writing. This was largely because when Sumeru's people first made paper, it was Liyue, who was relatively close to its borders, that traded for it. However, instead of using paper for jotting down scientific findings like they did in Sumeru, the citizens of Liyue instead used paper as a method of immortalizing poems and songs among many other things. This, of course, naturally lead to a rich culture and a population that grew rather affectionate for the arts. Liyue still maintains its cultural assets today even after many rulers have gone and passed. However, it was no longer the Palace that nurtured the artistic affairs. It was House Yun.

How House Yun came to be was narrated in an operatic tale entitled "Cloud Gazer." Unfortunately, the opera itself was largely ambiguous, leaving much to be understood for the eyes of the beholder. Two interpretations were widespread amongst the fans of the opera. The first considers the pioneering Count to be a mere nobody at first, only to sing a song so magnificent that the Emperor bestowed upon him a noble title. The other interpretation, on the other hand, considers the Count to be one of the servants under the protection of Feiyun who was bestowed a small territory of their own as the Duke's retiring gift for his loyalty and service. Either way, House Yun's strong connection to the arts remain prominent in both versions, and today, House Yun serves as the largest benefactor for many artists.

Its current Head, the young Countess Yun, is particularly fond of operas, so much so that she established the renowned Yun-Han Opera Troupe which regularly performs their greatest hit, "The Divine Damsel of Devastation," in all parts of Teyvat. It's fascinating that even after many years has passed since its release, people still flock to watch or rewatch the opera. If rumors were to go by, it has yet to not have each seat booked within the first three hours of the performance schedule being made public. Perhaps, however, what is more intriguing is that you, a rather prominent connoisseur of the arts, have yet to watch a single show of that opera.

It was at times like this that having Countess Yun as your soon-to-be sister-in-law is most beneficial.

"You know—" you leaned into the cushion of the carriage, like any melodramatic maiden you've encountered— "it still mystifies me how you've managed to get permission from the Kanjou and Yashiro Commission to host the performance in Ritou."

Countess Yun giggles. "Shall we settle for the explanation that I'm rather well-connected?"

"That you are, and because you are so, I, too, am well-connected."

"It flatters me that you played along my jest, my lady," the Countess says with a modest smile. "I, however, believe that much of my success can be attributed to the Tri-Commission's intention to hide whatever it is that they're hiding."

You make a sound of agreement. Inazuma's geographical location meant that they couldn't fully sever all the ties with the other nations, that is, if it intend to keep its constituents alive. Supposing that Countess Yun's speculation is correct, any sudden refusal to host cultural events would be deemed suspicious, especially after the Tenshukaku itself made a statement citing culture as one of the reasons behind the isolationist policy. Of course, there was a lot of implicit meanings to be derived from that and the Ambassador's brief comment. "Culture" in their context, in truth, pertains to how the influence of the Fontaine migrants has become so widespread that it was allegedly making it hard for the incumbent Empress to control the citizens. By enriching their own culture and sending the people of Fontaine home one by one, the Tri-Commission aims to reclaim stability in the archipelago.

In all technicality, Liyue, too, should be kicked off the islands. However, the Yun-Han Opera Troupe's prestige is a force to be reckoned with—that much, you can give them credit for. Thanks to the privileged and frankly, moronic nobility of Inazuma's court, the Empress was forced into making an exception. Maintaining the monarchy is difficult, after all. You would have to fight two battles at two different fronts: one with the common folk and one with the aristocracy. To make matters worse, you could never appease both at the same time. Enforcing the Sakoku Decree is no easy feat but with the wavering strength of the Empress, the only way she could control the rebellions brewing among the people is if she stuck close to the nobles, and tried to answer their needs. It goes without saying that people would want to protect what would be beneficial for them, and if mutual benefit is spelled 'allowing the nobles to watch a foreign opera' and 'maintaining the Crown's position in exchange' then that is all there is to it.

The Countess speaks, breaking your line of thought, "this 'problem' must be quite a vulnerability for the Inazuman Empire if they chose to hide the truth behind false pretenses."

"Doesn't it make you curious, Countess?" You mutter in reply as you fold your hands together on your lap. "Exactly what is happening in Inazuma? Don't you think we should find out since we're already here?"

"About that... My lady... I am not doubting you by any means but even I cannot fathom how you'll be able to do just that." You only laugh at Countess Yun's pinched brows.

"Well, Countess... Is there anything money can't buy?"

She could only gape at you in response like a fish out of water or perhaps, just about anyone who is appalled by your ideologies. However, you could not bring yourself to care. Spending your wealth is fulfilling—that has not changed, not then and certainly, not now.

"Be that as it may," you hummed, peering at your friend with a Cheshire grin, "I genuinely look forward to watching this opera. I wish you the best of luck tonight."

Yun Jin returns your smile with one of her more sincere ones. "Thank you, my lady. I hope you enjoy tonight's show. Well, then. Shall we?"

"We shall."

You step out of the carriage to be immediately greeted with the salty scent of the sea. All around you, reddened leaves from the Momiji that grows abundant in Ritou fall like tiny dancing fairies that are finally returning to earth. You've never had the opportunity to travel so much in your past life which you now consider to be a shame as you eye the unique infrastructures of Inazuma. Residential houses were all uniformly roofed with symmetrically placed green tiles that are rounder in form compared to the ones you're used to in Liyue. It's similar with how it's built out of wooden foundations but dissimilar with how it's significantly less congested despite both being port locations. There was also the overabundance of flags bearing the symbol of the Empire. Quite imposing, you thought to yourself, but not quite surprising. Inazuma was far stricter with its laws and that was saying something when compared to the Land of Contracts itself.

"I greet the ladies of the Liyue Empire, Lady Feiyun and Countess Yun. I am Kamisato Ayaka—"

"—Ambassador Kamisato's younger sister! Yes, I've heard much about you." You beam, holding her hands in yours. "Please forego the formalities. It displeases me that the family of a friend is treating me quite coldly!"

Beside you, the Countess clears her throat in surprise. The target of your friendly disposition, however, imperceptibly sighs in relief before sending a similar, if not a bit more reserved smile to you. "If that is what my lady prefers, then so be it."

"Thank you for coming all the way to greet us, Lady Kamisato. I'm sure you must have been quite busy with the matters of the Yashiro Commission."

"Ah, it's no trouble at all, Countess! In fact, it is my honor to have been tasked with so."

You rose a brow in amusement. Even the way she talks is similar with her brother's.

"Will you be leading us to the venue?" Ayaka turns to you before nodding in reply, speaking of touring you around while at it. However, before she could continue, an unknown blond hurriedly whisks her away with a spew of apologies. A retainer perhaps? They seem close though, you muse as you wave the two off with an unbothered smile.

"Are you thinking of asking Lady Kamisato?"

"Countess—" you watch as their figures become covered by a pile of crates— "do you want me to die?"

"H-huh?! Not at all! How could I—"

Before Countess Yun falls apart even more, you interrupt her. "I would rather not stand against her brother unnecessarily. While the Ambassador might seem like a kind man, I do not doubt that his hands have since been sullied by the blood of his enemies, and that he would not hesitate to cut me down as well. Besides—" you see the pair approach once more, and you could not miss the way the Lady now appears to be more guarded— "acting like a good person just to get under her good graces leaves a sour aftertaste in my mouth. I'd rather not at all, if I can help it."

"I apologize for the abrupt interruption. The stage has just been finished being set-up in the plaza. Please follow me."

You simpered and Lady Kamisato's response was instantaneous. Her breath hitches, expression crumbling briefly to that of alarm as the grip she had on her clasped hands tightened by a smidge. "No need to be so nervous, my lady. I don't bite."

Your flashed canines spoke otherwise, and with Lady Kamisato's forced laugh, you could only wonder what the Ambassador relayed in a rush that she was now so terrified of you when you managed to almost tear down her defenses less than a few moments ago.

"Of course, I..." She swallows. "The esteemed Lady could never..."

Your fan spreads open with a "click," no longer bothering to reply as you follow after her quick steps. It was no wonder that the Ambassador was so overprotective of her when she was so simple and gullible still, not so different from a child who would be led astray with a piece of candy. It was cruel of fate to let your paths cross. If ever the Ambassador steps out of line, you now know which weakness to poke at. Would he turn red in the face? Would his veins pop, glaring at you as he tries to hide his thinly controlled rage? You think it'd be a nice contrast to his sky-colored hair, and his usually composed demeanor.

Too deep in your thoughts, you do not notice the brisk footsteps of a man approaching you until he hits your shoulder, and you all but fell to the floor. When you've overcome your shock, he was but a mere shadow by the corner. Strange, you glanced at the retainer who, despite his shock, called for someone to catch the stranger. Your gut feeling was telling you to run. Danger always held a distinct taste, after all. It was coppery but not without a bittersweet aftertaste; leaving you uncomfortable as you squirmed from the goosebumps that littered your skin that you often mistake for excitement.

"My lady, are you alright? We'll make sure to catch—"

"Leave him." Your lips twisted into a cruel grin. "Now, I'm curious."

"Excuse me?"

"The show begins in half an hour, yes? Please prepare another seat beside mine, Countess. Until then, I'll retreat to my chambers. No need to see me off."

You have a penchant for leaving people dumbfounded, you notice, but sometimes, even others can leave you at a loss for words. You raise the pair of dried flowers in the air to inspect them.

A white rose petal and a daffodil. Secrecy and a first meeting.

How curious, indeed.

The sun has set but it remained bright in Ritou for dozens of lanterns have been hung; warm light flickering strong and weak as it twisted around the posts and the great tree that shielded your view of the starless sky. The singer, who alone was faultless in the crowd, twirled and waved her hands to intricate designs as a trail of white garment chased after her like a fog spreading into the night. She was somber as she sang, emphasized more by the shadows painted by the dark.

The crane once returned

And once, she was spurned.

She turned, and left alone.

It was a mere beat before it became another until it came to be an energetic thunder that affected even the rhythm of your heart. The orchestra that had been reticent for the majority of the opera came alive at once, bringing with them a sudden burst of color and dance that the singer rejoiced to. On her face was a free smile, out of character, you think, but fitting for a young lady who adores her craft. The magic she spun was felt with each click of her shoes against the wooden stage, and you find yourself awed as a firework tore through the sky, bursting, and fizzling into sparks that you could only perceive as glitter in between the gaps of tree leaves.

Now, she might be found with friends all around

To whom she is bound — a home.

"Do you like operas, my lady?"

"Not more than paintings and prose," you replied unflinchingly; unbothered to fault that you spared no glance to the man who had situated himself to your right some time between the climax. "And you?"

"I've long grown tired of human trivialities."

"How pitiful..."

"Is that so?"

"Yes."

He scoffs just as the singer bows in front of the crowd's ovation. You and he were the only ones still seated but at least, you offered a short applause when she met your eyes. "Not justifying your audacity to pity me?"

"...Art can beautify even the worst of gores. Similarly, a pretty face can hide even the worst of attitudes. Perhaps I was just under the impression that you wouldn't succumb to such hypocrisies, Your Highness."

Silence ensues before it was promptly broken by a loud laugh that you've only heard once—from yourself when you've gone mad moments before your death. Though perhaps, that too was a fitting mirror for this stranger who's far more notorious than you would ever think to become. The Crown Prince of Inazuma, Kunikuzushi, was someone who was, for the lack of a better term, insane. The battlefields he had dyed red in Kannazuka still remember the haunting echoes of his laughter as he wildly swung his sword at whoever was in sight. His infamy was so prevalent that it had reached even the storytellers of Liyue who did not lack in giving warnings to its citizens. "Beware of the reckless, young prince who shakes the earth with his presence; picking his victims with as much care as the lightning and thunder of his lineage's emblems," they say and yet, here you were, picking on his flaws as the crowd ignorantly rejoiced all around you.

"You are bold, Lady Feiyun. I cannot tell if you are sly or foolish, and I doubt anyone can." The Prince lets out a long exhale before he continues, "But you are quick-witted, that I can say."

"Thank you, Your Highness. Those are very generous words."

Kunikuzushi clicks his tongue. "Enough. We have business to talk about."

For a minute, you toyed with the idea of teasing him further, encouraging the small talk he didn't wish to have. However, as you spot Lady Kamisato slowly looking around—no doubt to keep an eye on you for his brother—you quickly tossed the thought away. Instead, you stand up, patting your robes for invisible dust before placing a dainty hand on the Prince's outstretched one.

"Lead the way."

"And if I lead you to your death?" He smiles innocently but that innocence was read by your eyes as malice that's far more terrifying than an honestly portrayed one.

"I've been told that I have good reflexes." You squeezed his hand once and you hoped that the bony appendages felt pain. "I'll drag you with me, Your Highness. I do hope you consider me good company for eternity before trying anything."

The Prince cackled, dark violet hair bouncing with each nod of his head. Under the glow of the lanterns, his pale skin appeared luminescent, accentuating his doll-like features. You've heard of Inazuma's Imperial Family's alleged perfection but never had the chance to see it with your own eyes. Now, you think such high praises were rather well-deserved. He had bright, clear eyes, a small nose, naturally pink lips, and a slender but fit body under the customized uniform he wore. It's a shame that he was too much of a brat that it completely dampens his great looks.

"Allow me to borrow your bedroom."

You quirk a brow. "On our first meeting?"

He invades your space with so much ease and while the rational part of you wanted to slap his free hand away from your cheek, the single touch had the tension in your bones easing. You're curious about this man who had called you bold when he was the one who was smudging your lipstick with his thumb. You blink. His own gaze was unfaltering save for when he briefly eyed the exposed part of your neck. This was wrong, of course. Brazen you might be, you weren't so witless that you'd plaster yourself as tomorrow's gossip headline for the hyenas that were the nobility. Still, he is a curious thing. Even more when a cool breeze passes by and rustles what you know to be a rarely unkept appearance.

"I move fast."

You grin at him for the first time. "If you do, we'd have long finished discussing what exactly it was that you want from me and what you can give me in return."

"What else can I possibly want from you?" The Crown Prince's eyes curl up, mirth clearly dancing within them as he moves his hands to rest on the swell of your hips. "There's only your money."

You snort. "You really are shameless. It's impressive, actually."

"Thank you, my lady. Those are very generous words."

Before you can comment on his stolen line, he resumes his grip on your hand and unceremoniously drags you to the direction of your assigned room. The night was cold, made no better with the speed you were running as you attempt to keep up with the royal who was clearly being inconsiderate of your attire. Instead of whining, you choose to look up at the rooftops. smiling when you faintly catch a silver glint.

"Eyes on the road."

"I'm sure Your Highness wouldn't let his potential benefactor fall."

Though you could only see the expanse of his back and the faint movement of his muscles, you just know that he was once again smirking. "You have no idea what I am capable of."

"I think I can guess."

He abruptly stops and you hit your nose on his frame. "And what was this about having good reflexes?"

"...You talk too much."

Kunikuzushi glances around before pushing you inside the house you're temporarily given to use. "I overestimated my time. The Tenryou Commission would soon be marching in Ritou."

"What have you—?"

"You should know what this is." He interrupts you by raising purple-colored pills inside a transparent pouch. "It's sold in Liyue too."

"Orobaxi?"

The Prince nods. The newfound serious demeanor made you second-guess your impression of him because the face he was making was not within an unknowing fool's capabilities. "Inazuma is currently facing extreme social and economic disruptions because of this stupid drug but what's of greater importance is..." An enraged smile. "I have grounds to believe that the Imperial Palace has been compromised."

"What? But if what you said is true, you'd also be saying that profiting from the drugs isn't the manufacturer's end goal. It's to cause an insurgency!"

"The Empress... Her Imperial Majesty and her court does not believe that these unknown foreigners are a threat to Inazuma. The most she did was limit foreign trade in the Empire to prevent the importation of these drugs but..."

"Since you have that, is it safe to assume that they've begun producing from the inside?"

The frown that grew deeper on His Highness' face was enough of a response.

"Setting that aside for a moment," you mumbled as you paced a few steps, "what about the Tenryou Commission? You mentioned that they'll be here soon. Why is that?"

You turn to look at the Prince and... Ah... How foreboding his manic smile was.

"As of tonight, the Crown Prince of Inazuma has become its most wanted criminal."

"...You did not..."

"If you're thinking that I started a coup, then you would be correct."

A heavy sigh.

"This is why you need my money?"

"As much as it pains my pride to admit, I am only a Crown Prince by name. Her Imperial Majesty wouldn't bat an eye before transferring the rights to succession to my younger sister if I do so much as give her the vaguest reason to depose me. Thankfully—" he slumps down at the chair closest to you, cracking his neck while at it—"some nobles haven't been too fond of her after the unrest her passivity caused. I'm not lacking in manpower but I am in supplies."

"And that's where I come in. Given how this conversation is moving, I suppose it's rather safe to say that my prize would be a favor from the Emperor of Inazuma?"

"Correct."

You meet his unflinching gaze with one as cold as ice. "But you should know this well already, Your Highness. If your background on myself is anything close to being reliable, you'd know I don't fight losing battles. Even if you successfully overthrow the Empress, how long will you remain in that throne with your appalling image among the people?"

"People—commoners or aristocrats—aren't they all so easy? So gullible and naive... You are not ignorant to this, Feiyun. It takes but a few choice words before they're falling under the banner of your 'oh-so-noble cause.'"

The truth in his words displeases you. His proposition was the picture-perfect definition of "high risk, high reward" and it was increasingly difficult to decide if he was worth it.

"Seeing as you're still hesitant which, if I may add, is quite groundless when you weigh the benefits you will sooner or later gain, allow me to sweeten the deal. When I fight my battles, I do not merely win. I crush my enemies. Similarly, I will crush those who dare play with my Empire." A beat. "When, and not if, I earn the throne, I'll find all the worms in my orchard and make them cough out what they know. With your information and mine, we should be able to deduce the identity of this pathetic conspiracist and end them. Well, I would. Inazuma has received enough damage to justify an all-out war despite the peace treaties among the nations of Teyvat. You? All you need is to seat back, nurse your wine and watch your investment be worth your while and no one will know any better. How's that? Isn't that just your cup of tea, little bird?"

"Hah..." You groan, a hand massaging your temple but your lips betray your feelings. "Dear heavens, you sure are quite the ache to deal with..."

The habit of jumping from one dangerous knife to another was proving to be quite perilous for you but between potential demise and one that's already happened once, this murderous Crown Prince was the better option compared to your treacherous Marquis. This, even more particular now that you have Inazuma's current affairs as a basis. Supposing that these unknown foreigners were planning to do the same in Liyue, it would likely be the investigation on Orobaxi that uncovered the Marquis' dirt in your past life. Pairing that with your very timely engagement with him and your father's refusal to investigate, Feiyun would naturally be assumed to have been involved with the question of how it got to Liyue in the first place. Which means that, in this life, the faster the Orobaxi issue was buried, the safer your family would be.

"What a smile... That sure is a comforting sight." Kunikuzushi notes as he mirrors your dangerous smile on his pretty face.

"I do not gamble on losers, Your Highness. Remember that."

"Please. Spare me your threats."

You laugh before composing yourself and offering your hand for him to shake. "As you wish. I will review my titles so that I will not offend you the next time we meet."

"The next time we meet..." He flashes you that faux sweet smile as he, instead, places a chaste kiss on the back of your hand, "Perhaps I'll provide you with preferential treatment and allow you to refer to me by my name. That is the least I could do for my beautiful benefactress."

"The least you could do for your beautiful benefactress is to keep your haste and leave. The soldiers approach."

As if on cue, a flurry of thunderous footsteps pierced through the walls of your residence. It causes even a nearby vase to shake and you quirk your brow at the displeased countenance of your special guest. He tsks like a child who's had his fun interrupted but he does leave anyway. Though he did so not without first sending you another one of his annoying smirks and a little wave. The little rat, you shake your head with a smile as you slumped down to your seat.

It was far too late to cut your ties with the Marquis and plead innocent in front of the Emperor but if you can buy more time, he can naturally be silenced when Inazuma waged their war on Snezhnaya. That, of course, was easier said than done but... You'll manage. Yanfei, too, has always been great at making miracles but that was a matter for another day.

More importantly...

"Little flame," a shadow appears at the corner of the room. "How is Lady Kamisato fairing?"

"An priority order to find you has been issued among the local guards, signed by Lady Kamisato. My lady, whatever did you do to the Ambassador?"

You snicker. "Nothing at all... It's just a misunderstanding... Still, I reckon the truth has very little value now."

Just like back then.

"Watch them. If they attempt to link my name to Orobaxi..."

But you will not die this time.

"You have my permission."

No matter the cost.

"Kill them."

Chapter 4: SĀN — A LESSON IN PROVIDENCE.

Chapter Text

He taps on his desk thrice just as he does every time he plays against someone in chess. Duke Feiyun was not a particularly terrifying man but he does know how to make someone—no matter how composed they are on a regular day—shift uncomfortably. You are no exception despite sharing his blood, it seems, because you felt exactly like a sinner in front of a judge despite doing him no wrong.

"How was the opera?"

"Wonderful, Father. I understand why it's so well-loved by the people now."

The Duke hums relaxedly but for some reason, it feels rather ominous instead. "To be honest, I did not expect you to suddenly ask to travel all the way to Inazuma for a performance. I remember you saying that you... 'abhor sea travel.'"

Was this a test? You couldn't help but think as you feigned a smile. "I wanted a change of pace."

"...Is that so?"

You watch as the Duke brings his teacup to his lips. The creases on his eyes were emphasized by his barely hidden doubt. He was always a careful man but the unnecessary amount of suspicion he has on you was the only proof you needed to know that the Duke definitely had some knowledge about the plot against the Empire.

"Father..."

Can you trust him?

This man was arguably the most powerful in the Empire. He was someone who can easily wear a polite expression while sending another noble family into bankruptcy. He was the Duke of Feiyun who knows more than he lets on. He is also your father but blood does not absolve anyone of doubts. He was the one who taught you that.

"Are you on my side?"

The Duke keeps his silence and you sigh in resignation. Though you knew better than to expect, the tiny sapling that is hope grows in your heart either way. Rightfully so, the storms that brews in it prove to be unfavorable for such tiny things.

"...When you were a child, you suddenly approached me and loudly declared that you wanted to be rich." He laughs as your brows pinch, cheeks heating up unpreparedly as memories you've long buried resurface once more. "I'm familiar with such words. So many of our ancestors fell because of that greed."

"Where are you going with this?" You whisper as a strange haze covered the clear eyes that have once comforted you. Even when everything was falling apart, His Grace, the Duke—your father—knew exactly what to do to fix it. Even back then... Even in your final moments, you hoped he would come to patch everything up like he has always done for you; that he would save you from the indiscriminate clutches of death.

"I blamed myself for whatever unfortunate fate you will find yourself in. After all, it was I who told you to never be without ambition."

"Father... What—"

"But no matter how tired I've grown of hearing about how you've done nothing but trouble, I cannot abandon you no matter what you do. I am your father. All choice have been deprived of me save for ensuring that you will stay safe."

Your lips tremble. How strange... It feels as if ages has passed since you last felt your heart squeeze like so. Your eyes flutter close just as a teardrop slides down your cheek. Though it was but a single drop, your father steps away from his desk with an urgency similar to that when you bawled your eyes out from a tiny scratch.

Where was he then? How long did he fight for you? Had he watched as the guillotine fell? Did he mourn for you or was he never given that chance either?

He wipes your cheek with his wrinkled yet firm hand and suddenly, you were once again a mere child who could only chase after the sight of their parent's comforting back. "You can tell me anything. Come what may, I will protect you."

You can't, you wanted to scream. He shouldn't have to bear your ignorant sins nor should he offer you the aid you were ultimately undeserving of. He'd be better off burning off your name from the family tree if he was as wise as he made himself appear to be.

And yet...

"I'm innocent."

The unheard cries that were never uttered nor heard by anyone—not even the gods—fell so easily from your lips. Just like that you crumble. In front of someone who foolishly told you that he will stand by your side, the ice you've encased your fragile heart with thaws, leaving only uncontrollable sobs as your father brought you into his arms.

"My dear... What has happened to you?'

Too much, you murmur into his chest that grows damp under your relentless tears. It's pathetic. You are a Feiyun and yet, you are crying over something so... You chastise yourself, stopping your flow of thought before you spiral further down.

"Is it that Marquis?"

"...I'm sorry I should never have—"

He calls your name once and you couldn't help but laugh at his bias.

"The foreigners have fatuously perceived our noble house to be a mere stepping stone for their goals but I vow on my name that I will—!"

The final drops of your tears were wiped as you pull away from the Duke's hold. "—You'll send yourself to an early grave like this."

"You have much to learn if you still underestimate me, child." He scoffs as he pridefully turns his face away from your unimpressed frown. Oh, only if he knew, you mourn and it was a tragic thing to bemoan a fate that none can recall. Such a shame that it had to be you who does.

"You're right, Father..." You send him a shaky smile. "They're underestimating us too much."

"Correct. Our family has stood against many a challenge. We will not fall this time either."

You nod, a silent flame burning inside your soul. It ravages everything in sight and you have half the mind that while you were determined, it was your wrath that was setting your nerves aflame.

Certainly not this time.

"The Marquis will soon make his move. When that time comes..." The Duke, though ignorant of the cruel heap of thoughts you were holding, returns the malicious smile you've come to call your signature. "Perhaps we ought to return his generosity the Feiyun way."

"Are you nervous?"

You snort. "Why do you sound so excited over the prospect of my anxiety?"

"I adore all the expressions on your beautiful face, my lady!"

You're starting to miss Shenhe, you thought to yourself as your... other handmaiden, Hu Tao, hums to herself as she locked the final piece of your jewelry in place. Maybe you shouldn't have asked her to act as your proxy in the Empire's auction. Ah, but... A pout forms on your face as you remember the author Zhenyu's limited edition novel. You want it so naturally you should get it but the Emperor had to choose this date of all the possible days to meet with you.

"Now that I think about it though—" Hu Tao grins —"you really have no need to worry about anything!"

You couldn't help but sigh, knowing by now that she was about to say something strange but you played along anyway. "And why not?"

"I can just kill all of them off. That is what I am in your retinue for, yes?"

"...Should you really be talking so casually about murder? Even I do not behave so carelessly and I could barely bother about other people's comfort."

"You see, my lady, I never had the same concerns you all seem to have about death. To me, death is a close acquaintance, and whether you die today, tomorrow, naturally or not... It doesn't really matter. It'll happen even if you try your hardest to grapple away from it."

You don't reply—or you don't know how, you can't say. She's always been eccentric with her world views but that wasn't necessarily a bad thing. A literature book you once read, if you applied its technical definitions on your situation, would classify Hu Tao as a foil character. She was the exact opposite of you, remaining mostly optimistic despite her moments of violence. It wasn't like she lived a better life than you did, you'd even argue she lived worse. That makes you hate her sometimes. How she remains humane with blood all over her hands nor sane despite the injustice she faced is beyond you. It does make you look horrible in comparison, though, and that was far from ideal.

"Either way, I don't think you should be vocal about potentially killing the Emperor."

"Oh, we'll be fine~! My lady is someone who wouldn't allow me to be beheaded. Not yet, at least. I'm still of use to you."

"...You're right—" You laugh as your reflection stares at you blankly— "so stick close to me. The Palace could very well be infested with our enemies."

"Yes, my lady. Speaking of your enemies, the Ambassador does not appear to be planning anything and my sources say that neither does the Young Lady."

"...Good. Let's go. We best not keep the Emperor waiting."

The ride to the Palace was short but it felt like another lifetime for you. There was something humorous about how detailed your memories were of these roads. The cracks and crevices of each time-worn brick, the moss peeking through it, the scent of tar, and the perpetual dampness that makes the path look a shade darker than it actually was. You remember all of this and more, one memory passing through after you've lingered on one image long enough. The clearest memory had to be the scent of eggs mixed into a horrible slimy concoction with the vermillion drip of your blood. Compared to the horrible imageries that fed on your peace of mind, the Palace was the definition of an untouchable grace. It is lined with golden embellishments and towering gates with crawling rare flowers hiding the shadows of the elite members of the Emperor's guards. They were far less wary of you than they were the last time you came there—when you were given no chance to look around before being dragged to the basements.

"I greet Your Ladyship. Welcome to the Imperial Palace." Ganyu, the Emperor's General Secretary, bows and as per etiquette, you curtsy back. "I will now escort you to His Imperial Majesty's office. Please follow me."

The tiled floors of the Palace were always spotless, allowing the sunlight to reflect against the surface seamlessly. Unlike your manor whose halls were often filled with attendants and business partners, there was nothing but the unnerving silence and desolation inside. You've heard rumors of how the Emperor was very particular with his peace but you knew that the aristocratic society adored their exaggerations. This time, perhaps they were truly uttering nothing but the truth. The clicks of your shoes echo but you couldn't help but notice that Ganyu's do not. Do minuscule sounds irritate him? You slow down, muffling your footsteps the best you could as your robes trailed softly behind you. Ridiculous, you curse yourself as your heart begins to feel heavy. Though Hu Tao had told you not to worry, the reality that a single word of his can send everything you've worked so hard to achieve was disorienting.

"You seem nervous, my lady."

You never expected Ganyu to spark a conversation but you politely accepted it anyway. "This would be the first time I will be meeting with His Imperial Majesty. I have much reservations about myself and I worry that I would do something to displease him."

"His Imperial Majesty is strict, yes, but he does not go out of his way to speak ill in front of his constituents. Please try to ease yourself."

"...I will take your word for it."

"Ah, I know! If you are not in a rush after your meeting, perhaps a visit to the Imperial Library would help you loosen up! It has a quiet atmosphere. I often go there for relaxation myself during my spare time." Ganyu pauses briefly to look at you before continuing. The trek to the Eastern Wing of the Palace, a place reserved for the exclusive use of the reigning Emperor, was silent after that and you were thankful that you did not have to indulge in unnecessary chatter.

"We have arrived. I will be back shortly with refreshments."

When she retreats back into the corner, the door in front of you feels impossibly more daunting. It casts a deep shadow that highlights the tension on your shoulders and back. You knew that the Emperor was now aware of your presence, having been blessed by the dragons themselves with superior physiological functions. It was what lead to his ultimate victory five years ago and you wonder if his supreme hearing could take note of the way your heart was racing like a bunch of horses galloping in an equestrian contest. You sigh. Better get it over with sooner than later. You knock on the door precisely thrice, keeping your chin up and your voice even as you were told many times before by your mother.

"Your Imperial Highness, I, Lady Feiyun, have arrived at behest of your request for my presence."

"Enter."

You almost wished he was suddenly too busy.

The doors to his study open with a firm push and you were immediately greeted with the sight of towering bookshelves that were arranged by date of publication. At the center lies a large mahogany desk and behind it was the famed glass stained window that details Liyue's founding. There were priceless antiques too, vases and other potteries with varying designs displayed neatly along the shelves. As you curtsy, your eyes land on the soft, lemon-colored rug that looked and felt expensive. It had the model of a curled dragon, the insignia of the Imperial Family since the olden days. Traditionally, all of its direct descendants wore this symbol on their being at every hour of the day, regardless of the occasion. However, it has long been discontinued ever since the succession was passed onto other families. As you spot the dragon-shaped ring that wrapped around his index finger securely, you came to the conclusion that he was returning back to his roots. In all likelihood, he might also be the last person alive who was worthy of doing so.

"You have my thanks for traveling all the way here, Lady Feiyun."

You finally raise your eyes and there he was: the Emperor of Liyue. He was always described as a most desirable bachelor and you could see why clearly now. Despite the number of fabric that were layered upon his body, you could still make out the way he was finely sculpted—strong and stable like the rocks beneath your feet. The whites, blacks, yellows, blues, and red, though resonant, did very little to wash him out. Instead, they added to his domineering appeal, emphasized even more with his lax yet regal posture. With one leg prepped over the other, one hand on the armrest and the other holding a drink, the Emperor looked as majestic as his title suggests. His eyes shone like gold, and his hair—umber and ocher at the tips—all worked to mimic the supposed beauty of the dragons.

"Not at all. It is a great honor for me to be of service to His Imperial Majesty, the Emperor."

Despite your now-averted gaze, you could clearly see how his deep chuckle reverberated inside the room. "That is very reassuring to hear. Pardon me if this offends you, my lady, but I did not expect the Duke to send his eldest daughter to me. I was under the assumption that your brother, the Young Lord, would come instead."

"I take no offense, Your Majesty, and I can only pray that you do not either. The request came on a short notice and by the time it had arrived, my brother was halfway through the road to meet with a few investors from the Kingdom of Mondstadt. I came as proxy to him."

Lies. You were ready to kneel in front of the Duke when you begged for this opportunity. Thankfully, it didn't need to go that far with his newfound favor.

"Ah, is that right? I see... It cannot be helped then. I will not dally for long, seeing as I am already asking too much of your considerations, but please... Take a seat. It is improper of me to allow a lady to remain on guard in front of me."

You glanced up—just up to his arms—and followed his motion to the direction of the couches. They were comfortable, of course, but you were much more interested on the embroideries on the throw pillows. They were sigils of an old forgotten practice but that was just about where your knowledge ends. You took a mental note to look into it further in the future.

"I suppose you've heard from your father that Liyue's economy is at its most unstable in nearly five centuries."

"Yes, Your Majesty. He did not offer any of the specifics but I have seen the effects of it with my own eyes."

The Emperor folds his hands together and though he may not have wanted it, it was hard to not notice the amused quirk of his lips. You don't take it against him. It was such a strange sentence to come out of your mouth and if you were he, you would certainly wonder if it was a pathetic attempt at appearing sympathetic or a roundabout way of professing one's ignorance amid luxury.

"I have had a few of my men investigate the matter briefly and they found that the economic turbulence was caused by the smuggling of prohibited goods. I called you in today to task House Feiyun with a more thorough investigation."

You bow, a dainty hand placed over your chest in obedience. "We will do as you say, Your Majesty. However—" you peek at his controlled visage— "pardon me if I am overstepping my boundaries but it does not appear that your only concern is our economy."

The investigation came as no surprise. You knew from Yanfei and her connections that the Emperor was likely to make his move soon and the pieces fell in line with the timeline of Feiyun's fall as well. Although it was true that he was behaving within the borders of your expectations, it wouldn't hurt to grasp a better insight of the events unfolding from the eyes of the Emperor. Just how much does he know? That was your question.

"...You have a sharp eye, Lady Feiyun."

You mumble a quick word of gratitude as the Emperor slides away from his desk, exposing his regal back to you as he stared out the grand window that displayed the Imperial Gardens.

"There are traitors amidst our wings. Before such parasites drink us dry, it would be wise to remove them immediately."

"I see... On behalf of House Feiyun, I will see to it that this task is fulfilled as soon as it can be."

The Emperor chuckles, turning around and you are swept away as for the first time, you meet that golden gaze that looks upon you with an inexplicable wistfulness you're foreign to. It is warm, enveloping you and comforting you in a manner you detest. How chilling. Layers upon layers of his robe softly kissed the ground as he approached you. Strangely, it feels familiar—this way he towered over you, shielding you from the blinding light of the day. You shake your head, hurriedly averting your gaze to a nearby plant as his deep voice rattles you anew.

"I know. If it is you, I do not doubt that all will be well."

You purse your lips. The Emperor of Liyue was many things and after today, you believe you have no choice but to add eccentric to his name. "I'd hate to take you away from the matters of our Empire. I shall excuse myself now, Your Majesty. May you be blessed with a wonderful day."

The Emperor smacks his lips together, glossed and all, before he nods, a silent act of dismissal and you leave without turning back.

You were halfway down the hall when you encounter Ganyu once more. She sputtered, holding in her hands a tray of drinks, as she asked why the meeting ended so soon. Though she, to the best of your knowledge, remained unswervingly loyal to the Empire's people until the very end, you can never say anything with certainty when it comes to people's allegiances. Instead, you vaguely responded with a mere "His Majesty only asked me to fulfill a simple task and nothing more." Ganyu responded with a disbelieving side-eye but did not press for more either. In the Palace, vague remarks were a fair warning enough.

"I'm afraid I have to waste your efforts with the refreshments."

"Ah!" Ganyu plasters a polite smile on her face once again. "Please do not fret over it. It was no bother."

You'd have issues if she answered disapprovingly was a sarcastic thought that instinctively popped into your brain. Shaking away your wandering subconscious, you asked for directions instead. There was another issue to be dealt with and now that you're here, you thought that you might as well attempt to look into it. Ganyu beams at the prospect of you following through her suggestion and, with precision worthy of her title, she navigated you to where you wanted to be.

The Imperial Library.

It was by no means anything special compared to the Akademiya's collection but it was certainly a bountiful source of knowledge regardless. According to many historians, the Imperial Library was originally the First Empress' personal collection. Over time, people began sending her books to gain her favor after her little hobby was leaked by a Palace insider. One of those that attempted to befriend the Empress was the Nation of Khaenri'ah.

Frankly speaking, you have very limited knowledge of the forgotten nation but so does everyone else alive today. They were originally the most powerful kingdom in Teyvat; largely because they were the only ones who could practice Khemia, an unexplained mystical art that could convert one element to another. Tragically, their rise to glory was halted when the great war between the eight sovereignties occurred. In the end, Khaenri'ah was destroyed and the seven remaining signed a treaty that prohibit another war of that magnitude. For some reason, all the books and records from Khaenri'ah became scarce after the signing but if any such accounts still exist today, it would be in the Imperial Library.

The librarian greets you before leaving you to your own devices, and despite the many wonderful sights you've seen in your life, you couldn't help but pause in awe at the sight in front of you. Marble pillars support the gilded ceiling that had impressionist paintings denoting the times bygone. At the sides were the collections of books, placed up to two-story high. On the center was a life-sized figure of the First Empress sat on her throne, carved from stone and dusted with bronze. You walk closer and breathed out in wonder. She looked exactly like the current Emperor.

Tearing your eyes away from her face, you peered instead at the dark corner that should contain the memoirs of Khaenri'ah. Its general idle nature was made obvious from the lack of people lingering around. Researching about the lost nation was not a taboo but everyone appears to believe that life was better at the wake of ignorance. Perhaps you'd share the same belief if you hadn't learned of their conspiracy from your past life.

You approached a bookshelf, pulling out a book entitled "The Children of Durin." That was the moniker the people of Khaenri'ah called themselves and presently, the people who are the most dangerous threats to you. There was nothing more vexatious than going against enemies who you know nothing about—not their motivations, not their plans, not their identities. They could be breathing down your neck as you speak and... You shake your head, eyes tracing over unfamiliar words. It would do no one good if you think about it now.

"Ah..." You turn your head at the sound of the noise. "My apologies... I meant not disturb you. I simply did not expect to see someone here of all places."

Would you look at that... Your eyes fell on the book he was holding, "The Art of Khemia." As if feeling your gaze, the noble shifts his hand, hiding the object of your attention behind his back.

"There is no need to apologize..." You quirk your head.

"Ah, pardon my etiquette. I am Baron Trifolium of Mondstadt."

"Hm? Oh, yes! I do remember that a noble from Mondstadt was currently conducting an exploratory investigation in Liyue. I don't suppose that is you?"

"You are correct, my lady. I am a scholar myself and when I heard of the fossils unearthed between the borders of our territories, I knew not to miss the opportunity."

You hum. "Very good. A good eye for opportunities and a little bit of luck goes a long way in any field."

The Baron makes a sound of acknowledgement before his eyes too land on the book you were holding. "Are you interested about the Nation of Khaenri'ah, my lady?"

"...You could say that. Frankly, my little brother posed a rather intriguing question, and I could not offer him a reply. Curiosity piqued, I ended up here for a bit of a light reading."

The lie falls easily from your tongue, steadily wrapping around the unknowing man like a string of ivy. It leaves a mark of tanginess but you've had it remembered for so long that instead of displeasure, there was only comfort or rather, a perilous home in the making.

"If you can still recall the question, perhaps I may be of help to you, my lady."

"Oh?" The tilt of your voice borderlines malevolent. "Are you knowledgeable about Khaenri'ah, my lord?"

You could faintly see the outline of his Adam's apple bobbing up and down through the collar of his top. He presses his lips together, parts them, before resuming his silence regardless. With his eyes focused on lining the gaps between the tiles, you could freely appreciate the man before you.

Beauty and aesthetics were far from strangers to you but the Baron was an entirely uncharted territory. He was pale-skinned, unblemished as if he was a porcelain doll that a craftsman meticulously worked on for hours on end. His small, round face was framed by platinum-blond tresses that almost glittered under the faint light that slipped through the crevices of the shelves. His hair wasn't particularly well-contained but that was charming too. Between the braids and the bangs that served as curtains to a world beyond, you'd say that the stylish unkept did him favors. He was pretty and so do his eyes that were finer than the jewel of the ring located on your left hand's finger. Granted, it was a shade or two lighter but if you peered deep enough, you were sure you'd see rich corals and vibrant wildlife, harmoniously crafting a brilliant show that you would be unable to direct yourself away from.

What a pretty man...

"Truthfully," he speaks with a small hesitant tremor, "my ancestors were from Khaenri'ah. I was adopted by the then matriarch of House Trifolium, Baroness Alice Trifolium after witnessing my talents." Pause. "My birth name would be Albedo Cretaceus."

You blink, a frown quickly flashing by before you compose yourself into a more stoic stance. "I was not aware you had such a history on you."

"...Be that as it may, I ask that you be prudent with my lineage, my lady."

"Ashamed of your blood?" Though your voice was light as air, there was a questioning lilt that made it clear that it was not all in jest.

"Not at all. I simply find dealing with prejudice unnecessarily taxing."

Gloved fingers press against your mouth, hiding the laugh you let out in response. "I understand. Rest assured, my lord. This shall stay a secret between the two of us. That being said—" you take a step closer— "I hope you don't mind if I take you up on that previous offer."

And just your luck, a bishop falls right into your palms in this chessboard you are playing. Then again, that would be too dishonest for you to say after you had troubled Countess Yun tremendously just to ensure that you and this person would cross paths today.

Chapter 5: SÌ — A CLOUD-DEVOURING CHANCE.

Chapter Text

Lightning does not strike twice.

To earn the monarch's ire is to cross each t's of your death sentence yourself. Whether it be a mere word from the Empress or a swing of her infamous blade, if lightning chooses to strike, once is plenty enough, and if by some miracle, you've managed to shelter yourself from her fury, the shadows cast and elongated by her regal form are soon to follow.

The Shuumatsuban.

Assassins, spies, thieves—lapdogs to the Inazuman monarchy since it was established after the Great War. They were men and women who possessed no honor to their name; men and women who were not even footnotes on history's pages despite their years of service dedicated to upholding the frangible false security in society. To most, the Shuumatsuban was probably no different from the local legends of yokai but for you, blessed with knowledge and burdens you did not seek, the Shuumatsuban is the sole reason why the Empress still remained to be Inazuma's one true ruler.

Lightning does not strike twice but thunder has caught up to its flash and the haunting echo it leaves behind marks the first decisive move of the Crown Prince.

You click your tongue at the mud staining your soles. It has been raining non-stop the entire day. Because of it, the air is damp and humid with the skies a desolate gray that made it seem much later than it actually was. The morose environment only fueled your displeasure. It was a horrible time to be out and about.

Averting your gaze from the skies, your eyes finally land on him. He's sat himself under the shade of a vibrant orange tree, staring off at the direction of the small pond at the center of the mountain's peak. His eyes flicker back and forth and you think he's watching the rose-hued angelfish swim back and forth amidst clear blue. For a second, you wonder what he's thinking of in his wistful state. As he breathes out a small sigh, shoulders slumping in a manner that you'd audaciously describe as melancholy, does he ponder about the heavy, ill-tasting reminder of what his existence meant to the world? Or rather, does he feel the prickle of defeat on his porcelain skin, chasing after gust after gust of illusions in search of answers to the why's of war?

You stop yourself before you lose sight of your goals. You don't believe the world has yet brought life to the person who is capable of tracing over the unique mind of the Lord of the Still Lake himself.

Each step you take closer to him makes a strange, uncomfortable sound. It is reminiscent of the noise made by a monster's encroaching form or, at the very least, it is similar to the storytellers' rendition of it. It's laughable, really. If there was anyone who'd do well to fear for themselves, it would be you who has made her way to this man's line of sight.

He parts his lips in surprise, brows furrowing as if asking the question "what are you doing here?" but his eyes… His eyes flicker back and forth just as it did with the pond, and in your moment of weakness, you think that rather than seeking answers, Ambassador Kamisato was merely enjoying the sadistic bliss brought by a hunter-prey relationship.

You breathe because of my choice.

You live because of my permission.

You are what you are because I have allowed yourself to be.

"To what do I owe this pleasure, Lady Feiyun?" Light slips through the gaps in between orange foliage and it refracts against the gloss of his lips. It fosters an imagery of bared teeth, monstrous grins, broken bones.

You are enchanted.

"The rain has let up, if only by a little. From time to time, I find it nice to walk amidst it."

"A walk," he repeats with an amused lilt to his tone. "A walk… in Mount Hu Lao's peak?"

You smile through a snarl. "You must not have heard… The Duke has transferred the ownership of our family's mining companies to me to ease my older brother's responsibilities."

"I see… So this is a business trip, then?"

"You can say that."

You and he stare at each other as silence befalls you. There is distrust in his eyes, and you don't doubt that your own eyes mirror the same feeling. Just like you, perhaps the only person he could honestly and sincerely trust was his younger sibling. An angel who walks among sinners, innocent and naive but very pure in act and in word, can, without fault, only attract reverence.

The corners of your lips twitched downwards. A heavy thud, metal tearing through flesh, and a scream cut before its crescendo… You are far too curious to know the people who had sentenced such a person to a premature end. Only demons, after all, can delight in such a grotesque clipping of wings.

The corners of your lips twitched upwards. Yes, you'd kill if it meant for him—for you and your selfish wish. You'd behead an angel with your own hands if that is what is asked of you in return by the deities who have thrusted you back into this game. You would be, could be, are a demon.

And so is he.

"Lady Feiyun, may I trouble you with my thoughts?" Lord Kamisato shrugs off his white coat, folding it neatly before placing it beside him in a silent invitation. You take it.

"I suppose this is about your motherland's affairs?"

He hides a laugh under a cough. He knew, and you knew that but the pretend ignorance was a game you two play either way. "Yes. I did not expect such a move from His Imperial Highness."

"Staging a rebellion?" You smile lightly. "Do we speak of the same mad Prince?"

"Asking for help." He corrects.

An amused noise brews at the back of your throat and you leave it at that. Instead, you lean against the trunk of the tree with a feigned despondent sigh. "I heard of what happened to the Kanjou Commission's headquarters. It is a pity."

"Because of the artworks they held in possession?"

"Am I so unfeeling in your eyes, Ambassador, that you think my heart could only be moved by money and art?"

Ayato shakes his head at your words, a teasing glimmer in his eyes matching the one on your own. "Perhaps, perhaps not. But I do know that you are far more intelligent than you make yourself to be and so, I thought that you'd at least appreciate the great tactics His Highness employed."

"I am not so knowledgeable with the art of war, my lord," you reply softly as you fold your hands on your lap. "Still, I expected agitation from you, not admiration."

"Ah, but of course, I am apprehensive. The Crown Prince has taken control of the routes by sieging the Kanjou Commission. In doing so, he has effectively cut off the supplies, not only of General Kujou's troops, but of the entirety of Inazuma city's. Still, as a fellow tactician, I must say that I respect and admire his strategy."

"You do not seem concerned, though. Do you not see him as a threat?"

He does not respond, only showing you that indecipherable smile of his.

"Well, I suppose I cannot refute that." You trail off. "It is true that Her Imperial Majesty is more well-equipped for the war. If her forces persist, His Imperial Highness would lose."

"And yet, I sense your apprehension, my lady." Ayato shifts in his place to look at you better. "Why is that?"

"Both of them are fighting for the claim to Inazuma but has it not been lost before the Crown Prince even acted? Surely you've heard of it. The walls have ears, and its most recent story paints the picture of an Empress who allowed nefarious forces into her court, locked her people inside a drug-infested territory, and retained her passivity all throughout."

At his silence, you continue.

"It is in her best interest to vacate. The Empress is already an incompetent fool in the eyes of the people. Does she want to be an uncaring one too? At this rate, the people themselves will come seeking for her head. Of course, this is only my opinion but perhaps it is fuel for your thoughts."

"Perhaps that is true, my lady. However, as the head of the Kamisato Clan and as a representative of the Yashiro Commission, it needs not to be said that so long as there is no viable proof that the Her Imperial Majesty is unable to fulfill her responsibilities to Inazuma, we would stand by her side."

"…And what of her Shuumatsuban? What do you chain yourself for, my lord? The monarch or the people?"

A second.

It took a mere second before the Ambassador unsheathed a blade he hid under his kimono's sleeves. The split second it took winded down strangely. It went slow enough for your brain to go into overdrive, signs flashing red and blue warningly as your eyes zeroed in on the blade that glinted menacingly under the warm light. Alas, the human body is not equally as impressive. The muscles in your body wouldn't budge despite every nerve becoming singeing hot with each call of "mayday! mayday!" Your eyes darted all around, vocal chord constricted by a foreign ice inhibiting your actions.

A second.

It took a mere second before a blade was pressed into the Ambassador's neck. His blood trickled down slowly, threateningly, dampening his lavender suit with a splash of red.

"One move and your head will be flying off, Ambassador."

You can breathe.

Your bones croak as you attempted to ease the rigidity that befell your body. At the same time, a familiar ache plagues your jaw, teeth clenching and unclenching as you tried to wrap your head around what had transpired or rather, what you allowed to transpire. You exhale, shaking the tremble off your hands before pressing them both into your lap.

Cold eyes stared unfeelingly at you as his smile turns sharper. Still, as he feels his blood slide down his neck to stain his white robes, he lowers the dagger and raises his hands in acquiescence.

"Hu Tao." The blade presses closer into the broken skin. "…Let go."

Without question, your attendant withdraws and with another subtle nod, she retreats back into the shadows.

"For both of our sakes, please refrain from attacking me so rudely. Both you and I know that you're smart enough to know the gravity of your actions."

The Ambassador does not reply but when he pulls out a handkerchief instead to press on his wound, you knew that your point was well-received. "So that is what you are after today… I was wondering when His Royal Highness would come after the Shuumatsuban... Still, how did you and His Imperial Highness even know so much of us that you'd know that I lead them?"

"Don't ask me, my lord. I am only here to deliver a message from the Crown Prince."

He laughs at your words. "And that is?"

"'Kamisato Ayato, what kind of Inazuma is worthy of your and your people's sacrifice?'" You stand up, dusting your dress before you curtsy before him. "Well, I best be off, my lord. Don't stay out for long either. It appears that it will begin raining again soon."

As you walk away with Hu Tao now escorting you down the steep stairs of the mountain, you recall the Crown Prince's request within a letter that has long since been turned into a pile of ashes.

"There'd be no hope of victory—" he writes— "if the Shuumatsuban is sent to meddle with my affairs. Of course, that is the least of my concerns as you, my benefactress, would be in grave danger when that time comes. For both our sakes, meet with Kamisato Ayato, the man who holds the key to the Shuumatsuban's will. While having him on our side is ideal, he only needs to remain as still as his moniker for us to win."

When lightning strikes, the still lake reflects its majestic fury. However, thunder's echo has disturbed the waters. At the face of turbulent thoughts, what vision will the lake reflect? Anticipation grows within the crevices of your heart as you turned back to glimpse at the mountain one last time.

You are enchanted, indeed.

"Breaking news! The Empress of Inazuma relinquishes the throne to her first-born!"

You raise the floral patterned teacup into the air with a soft smile. To the unknowing, you were merely appreciating a masterfully made art. To the knowing, however, you were commending your ally's victory. From below the teahouse, the clamor of the people leaves ears ringing. Even several meters away, the youthful voice of the newsboy makes its way to you while the papers he held scattered all over the streets.

"...Lady Feiyun, what do you think of these sudden changes in the Eastern Empire?"

"My little birds told me of the Crown Prince's—" You pause, chuckling as a sudden memory floods your mind. "I suppose we should be calling him His Imperial Majesty now... Either way, his rebellion was made known to me relatively early and I find this a foreseeable outcome."

You share a look with Countess Yun before you return your attention to Lady Ningguang. "So... You gambled on His Imperial Majesty and not the former Empress?"

"You could say that... If I were to phrase myself better, however... I simply find the Emperor a rather promising figure..."

"You could say that again," Lady Ningguang says as she blows on her tea. "To go against the Imperial forces and win with so little resources? Inazuma just may find themselves entering their golden age."

"Or," Lady Keqing finally interrupts, "He may be leading them to their complete destruction. None of you are forgetting his unsavory history, are you?"

Countess Yun clears her throat. "I remember it quite clearly but he seems to hold the people of Inazuma in high regard."

"Which could be a mere propaganda for all we know. Frankly speaking, his motivations are dubious." Lady Keqing tsks. "At best."

"Now, now... Let's not argue about His Imperial Majesty's morality. Instead, Countess Yun—" your fan unfolds as you give her a knowing look—"I heard that your new opera house near the pier would be opening soon?"

"Is that so? That would be exciting news, indeed. Shall we expect to see a new opera as well?"

At your and Lady Ningguang's comments, Yun Jin flushes, a hand attempting to cool her heated cheeks. "Three days from now, yes. I was not aware that you all would be interested. The new opera house is primarily targeted to the sailors, after all..."

You snort. You've heard of Lady Ningguang's companions that lurk in the shadow; not too different from your Countess Yun and Hu Tao. There was the intelligence agent, Yelan, and the sea mercenary, Beidou. In hindsight, it was likely those two who uncovered the plot in your past life. In the present, however, Lady Ningguang, despite remaining as a close confidante of the Emperor, does not have the authority to peer into your affairs. The best they could be utilized for is to learn upcoming trends. That was not a bad deal entirely for a business-minded woman.

"I'm quite excited to see it, regardless. You never disappoint, after all."

Yes, Countess Yun never disappoints. Even at the face of your irrational request, she was able to pull through and open the opera house ahead of the scheduled date. You blame it on the Ambassador, really. Him and his troublesome "requests." In three days' time, Liyue's annual arts festival would be held along with the opening of Heyu Teahouse. You could already imagine the chaos that would ensnare the crowd. If they were to be oblivious to the events that would transpire in their close proximity... Well, you wouldn't complain. After all, in three days' time, you will be meeting His Imperial Majesty after a long time.

"Greetings, my ladies... I hope I am not interrupting your conversation."

Your lips part in surprise. "Xingqiu?"

"My, you've grown since we last saw each other." Ningguang smiles. "Yet, you remain as courteous as ever. Lady Feiyun is very lucky to have a brother like you."

"If my brothers were half as polite as you are, Xingqiu, I'd consider myself grateful for the rest of my life." Keqing adds.

"Now, now, ladies... You'll fluster my poor brother. Look at him. Adorably blushing from head to toe..."

You snort as the beginnings of an embarrassed pout appeared on your brother's face. "Please excuse us. My older sister is urgently needed by my father."

"Then you best not keep the Duke waiting. Lady Feiyun, thank you for meeting with us today. It was nice to see you again after so long."

You replied with your own polite farewells and a promise to meet again soon during the week-long festival. Ever as chivalrous, you accept Xingqiu's waiting hand as you climb down the steps of the gazebo. Immediately, the rays of the sunlight kissed your skin, alighting a comforting warmth in your soul. It has been quite some time since you last saw Xingqiu outside of asking him to manage your businesses while you were out running around trying to ensure your survival.

When you were younger and Xingqiu was just about born, you two stuck like glue. It was likely because your ages were closest compared to your other siblings. He would often run to you, wiping his snot and tears in your dress as he wound his arms around your legs. You'd ask what was wrong, then he'd unload his worries to you: how your father and mother never had time for him or how his friends would talk behind his back. You still remember how your hands would suddenly feel like lead, pausing mid-caress as your heart wails in sympathy.

You and he were the same.

You too once longed for your parents' affection and your siblings' recognition. However, Feiyuns are quick to become independent and before you could understand how to become a good entrepreneur, they were already busying themselves as already successful ones. You don't remember when you started to resort to the life of luxury to fill in the gaps left by familial absence but eventually, you forgot about it—about them. There was something comforting in how wealth can never betray you, not if you manage it well.

"Sister? Something on your mind?"

"Nothing at all," you murmur as you stare off into the setting sun. " We used to go here all the time when we were kids.. Perhaps the nostalgia has crept up on me.."

"...You remember?" Xingqiu gapes at you and you nod weakly.

"Why are you so surprised?"

"Because you're always... You've always lead a different life from the rest of us. I always had to struggle to be a part of it."

You furrow your brows, pausing in your steps abruptly. "Have you always felt like this?"

Xingqiu nods and you fall silent. You take a few seconds, fingers imprinting marks on your skin. "You were someone I could not afford to lose."

"Because I'm of use to you? I tried my best to be."

"Because you're my brother," you correct. "You're the only one who ever understood me."

Xingqiu scoffs, clearly not believing you and you don't know how to tell him otherwise. Tense silence fills the once comfortable air and neither of you dare to move or breathe for that matter.

"Sister, if I'm truly as irreplaceable as you say... Can you be honest with me? What have you been up to these days?"

You hesitate but eventually, you sigh as a defeated smile paints your visage. Of course, your sharp-witted brother would notice that something was amiss.

"...People are after us, Xingqiu, and I will not allow us to be trampled upon us so easily."

"What? Who—"

"—Please continue to support your dear sister, and in exchange, I'll make sure that we'll both survive in the end," you interrupt him before he can even finish his flurry of questions.

Xingqiu blinks before chuckling to himself. "You don't need to ask me for that, Sister. I'm always on your side."

You know.

The soothing shadow cast by his hand from when he held yours remain indefinitely even after you have grown weary and ill from the events that ensue. They were no longer smaller than yours. Instead, they became calloused throughout the years of sword-fighting and mischief with Chongyun. Your little brother who once barely reached your waist became a young man who protected his older sister until the bitter end. He had smiled, eyes clenched tight to hide his fear to comfort you from yours.

Xingqiu was always on your side even when your mother would berate you for your overspending; even when you would hand him compensation requests to deal with; even when you sent your family to their death. In exchange for his loyalty and trust, it was only right to treat him kindly in this life. And well, it also helps that he is, indeed, useful.

"Ah, right!" You tilt your head. "Why is Father asking for me?"

He laughs, albeit nervously. "About that... Actually, it was not Father who asked for you. It was Marquis Caeli."

Your world stops.

A meeting with the man who ruined your life was inevitable but you had done your best to avoid him thus far. Conveniently attending Duchess Guizhong's tea party or attending a business meeting in Guili Assembly or feeling so impossibly sick... There was an abundance of reasons for the unwilling to peruse.

You crack your knuckles subconsciously.

Frankly, you fear that your facade will crack. Will you end up tugging your hair stick and stabbing his eyes with it? Will you sink your hands into his flesh, crimson pooling underneath your fingernails? Will you grip him by his clothes, desperately seeking for answers that still kept you up at night? Or will you pull him close and seek the thrilling chase that made your blood pump, temporarily removing all the thoughts that plague you when he presses his lips into yours?

You're scared to find out.

"Why didn't you just tell me that?"

"The Marquis told me you wouldn't meet him if I told you and—" Xingqiu mumbles an apology—"I pity Chongyun who is currently being held captive with only Jueyun Chili to accompany him."

"...The next time he bothers you or your retainers, call the guards on him."

Xingqiu gasps. "A-ah! My apologies, am I intruding on a fight?"

You chortle. He could say that again.

"It's nothing like that at all. I'd simply rather not deal with him too."

If Xingqiu doubted your words, he did not comment on it.

"The Marquis is at Liuli Pavilion... If you want to meet him."

"Oh?" You rose a brow. "What happened to your concern for Chongyun?"

"...I think he'd be more miserable if he had to deal with you both."

You shake your head with an amused smile. While you would rather not face Ajax Caeli, it was not fair to leave him alone with Chongyun, your brother's best friend and your loyal aide's nephew. Who knows what that man would do to him...You glance at the corner of the street and when you see a familiar ringed hand wave at you, you instantly let out a sigh of relief.

"I have to join Brother in his territorial survey but if you want me to stay..."

"Go." You surprise even yourself at your firm tone. You'd rather deal with the Marquis yourself. You send one more glance at Xingqiu before pushing open the doors that spelled your doom.

Liuli Pavilion was one of the busiest hubs in the Liyue Empire yet today, it was empty. The chairs were all pressed close to the tables, utensils and plates missing from the usually immaculate table setting. It takes no genius to know that he likely rented the entire place spontaneously. After all, if you knew one thing about the Marquis, it was that he was no different from you with the way he flaunted his wealth. It was why you approached him during the beginning, having not been aware of his title or abilities during his first diplomatic visit in Liyue.

The servers all lined up to greet you and you waved them off, promptly asking to be lead to your host. They guided you to the biggest private hall, one whose name you already forgot. You didn't know what to expect when the sliding doors were slid open but it certainly wasn't Ajax's gummy grin, eyes crinkled until they were mere slits as he ruffled Chongyun's hair. You flicked your fan open, the sharp click making both men look up. Though you deemed it impossible, the Marquis' smile grew bigger as he saw your form.

"Lady Feiyun! You came!"

Chongyun moved to bow but you promptly raised your hand, making him halt. "It's nice to see you as well, Marquis. If you don't mind, Chongyun, do you mind helping my little brother with his tasks? He's waiting for you outside."

Chongyun flicks his eyes to the Marquis then back to you before nodding and dismissing himself from the room. Much to your chagrin, the casual atmosphere remained even after you placed yourself in front of the Marquis.

"Lately it's been taking quite an agonizing effort to catch even a single glimpse of you."

"...All coincidences I'm sure."

Ajax sends you a knowing smile but made no further move to acknowledge it.

"Now that we're meeting like this, what can I help you with?"

"I missed you."

You couldn't help but scoff. "Why do I doubt that?"

"We're to be wed soon," he says as if he needs to remind you. "Actually, it doesn't matter. You should be used to my affections by now."

"I tolerated your madness but now, I'm afraid I'm having trouble seeing the benefits."

"Oh, come on! What did I do wrong now for you to suddenly be cold?" The Marquis whines and against your better judgment, you find the contrast between this side of him and the side of him in the battlefield rather cute.

"It'll be easier to just scratch it off as one of my mood swings."

The Marquis sighs before folding his arms with a pout. "You're acting like the maidens in Snezhnaya who would get mad at their lovers for having an affair in a dream."

He did worse but he's not too far off, you think to yourself with empty amusement.

"And you have a strange way of attempting to placate me."

"...It's a simple observation."

Ajax stares you down, eyes now no longer displaying the same delight he was showing off earlier. It was when he looks like this that your heart begins to race, the familiar feeling of fight-or-flight making you lose the ability to think rationally.

"I'll take your word for it."

Which is the real Ajax Caeli? How do you deal with a man who can easily be multiple people at once? Which weakness will you sink your teeth into? Or was that his intent—aiming to poison you with whatever mystery lies behind his eyes?

"Lady Feiyun, no..." He says your name without the pacifying illusion of regalities and you bite back the urge to gulp. "What do you know?"

"Know about what?"

Tone curious yet stable. Eyes devoid of the truth. Hands firm and steady beside your thighs. You were careful to reply just in time: not too soon nor late. You have no reason to doubt your theatricals and yet, instinct tells you that something is wrong.

"Things. Bad things." The man shows you his sharp smile, canines flashing tauntingly at you.

"Darling, I know a lot of bad things. It comes with the bloodline."

"I know you do. That's why I keep you close."

You don't reply, only staring him down unflinchingly in return. After what feels like an eternity, Ajax finally sighs, shaking his head as if shrugging away the existence of a ghost in his body, before flashing you the same innocent smile.

"Never mind that. I'll be meeting with the Tianshu over the next few days to discuss military cooperation agreements. After that, why don't we go out? Somewhere just the two of us? How does that sound?"

A blink. "If you insist. You know where to find me."

"Do I really?" He laughs melancholically and it genuinely felt sincere. Not like you trusted it any more because of it.

"If you can't find me then maybe you don't deserve the private time with me."

He clicks his tongue, sending you a sly gaze that makes it hard to guess his motivations. You mourn for the small part of yourself that craves this playful interactions. It's tragic and you think you're starting to realize why actresses always looked so forlorn in operas.

"I don't know..." Ajax hums. "Are you worth that much effort?"

You shrug. "Why don't you find out?"

Chapter 6: WÛ — A HEARTLESS JUBILANCE.

Notes:

[ DISCLAIMER ! ] - This chapter contains explicit descriptions of gore and violence. Read at your own discretion.

Chapter Text

You were exhausted.

The bones in your limbs felt like they were injected with lead. It causes you to feel a residual ache, muscles burning and nerves being set alight with even the smallest of nudges. It was worsened by the heat that pools under your skin—scorching, damning. Ironically, you also felt cold, a wet sheen being painted over your skin and with your sensitivity, you feel each bead of sweat dripping down your body. One trails down from your back and down to your spine and it vaguely mimics the sharp chill you suddenly felt. It was a warning: an instinctive alarm that disconcerts your composure like the bells that signaled your death.

Death.

Death beckons you once more with the bittersweet scent it always carried. Tangy with blood yet alluring with the cold comfort now familiar to you. But why? Why now? A frenzy of thoughts fills your mind as you lay uncomfortably on the floor. You were careful. You were sure you were. Whatever vulnerability you could possibly have, you made sure to amend the moment you woke up. So where did it go wrong?

Your eyes feel heavy and the exhaustion tempts you to succumb to the black spots that dance around your vision. In and out, there one second and gone the next. Just a second shouldn't hurt, right? You close your eyes and it is sweet relief from the headache that came as a consequence of the dizzying unfocused filter that seemed to befall the world.

Death.

Abruptly, you snapped your eyes open. You were certain you could hear someone laugh, the high intonation taunting you out of your miserable state. You don't want to die. You can't die. A cough spills out of you as your hands dug onto the red-stained carpeted floor. Fibers stuck under your fingernails and bruises begin to form under your knees as you desperately clawed against the invisible weight of doom that presses you down. You swallow. Liquid kept pooling under your tongue, salty and bitter at the same time and it clues you on what was happening.

Death.

Death was unnerving—almost to the degree of the unpredictable howls of the wind and the rain shower turned storm outside. Paired with your hazy sight and the darkness of the night, it was hard to see past the terrifying hold of death.

"X-Xingqiu," you croak—"are you there?"

No reply.

You twist your head as best as you could which was a feat in itself when your muscles were spasming and constricting into a solid block. Still, you turn and then you see it.

You've never seen a corpse. You closed your eyes at your brother's and averted your eyes from your mother's. You had Hu Tao dispose of your enemies and by the time you pass by, Shenhe has cleaned their remnants so skillfully that you could pretend that nothing ever happened. You've never seen a corpse but you knew. You knew that if you had, it'll look like that.

Sickeningly pale, almost a dreadful white that created a dissonance you cannot fully comprehend. Even full, pink lips turned a few shades lighter with an undertone of blue. It is unmoving and seemingly firm from a distance with how he was sprawled in a painful manner.

Death.

Death makes your blood freeze and you feel its bony clutch move the stray strands of your hair away from your neck. Or was that the wind? The ghosts? The sinners? Goosebumps kiss your skin.

"Xingqiu—!" You sob then it happens.

His head lolls to the side—to your direction—and bile rises to your throat. His eyes had the same glaze of a dead fish. It was dilated, glassy, and red at the corners. He didn't seem to be looking at you but the sweat that forms at his hairline gives you a faint semblance of relief. That and the rapid rise and fall of his chest, not too dissimilar to your own heart that goes tha-thump-tha-thump-tha-thump in a rhythm reminiscent of death marches from a thousand years ago.

Death.

A laugh pools out of your lips, manic and desperate. You were as helpless as before. What were you struggling for all this time if it would end up this way anyway?

"This wretched fate—!"

You grab a fallen candlestick and threw it as hard as you could in a final burst of strength then your vision turns to black.

Death has come at its sixth call.

"...ill...ey...ake...up?"

"...ady...is...ot...ing..."

Voices pierce through the emptiness of your subconscious and before long, a bright light turns your closed vision from black to grey. You breathe. Once, twice, thrice. Then, you open your eyes.

"Lady Feiyun!"

Shenhe hovers over you from your right and your family doctor on your left. Moving your gaze to the left reveals the surprised face of your older brother and the kneeling form of your mother, hands clasped together as prayers pour out of her endlessly.

"A-ah! Water! Give the Lady water!" You see Chongyun scurry behind the screen door. You don't miss his red-rimmed eyes and trembling lips.

"Shenhe." You rasped and your retainer immediately stiffens in attention. "W-what happened?"

She glances at your doctor who pursed his lips, immediately averting his gaze. Clenching your jaw, you shot her a glare before attempting to stand up, slapping her hand that moved to help you up.

"Hu Tao."

"My lady..." She replies from the corner, making everyone but you jump in surprise. They exchange looks. She wasn't there before.

You accept the glass Chongyun immediately offered you as he came back, gulping it down before narrowing your eyes at her once more. "What. Happened."

"My lady, perhaps—!"

"You and the Young Master were poisoned. The doctor ascertained it to be belladona, or deadly nightshade. It's a plant that grows natively in Fontaine and Mondstadt."

"...How did it get past your guard?"

They don't reply.

"I said, how did it get past your guard?!"

Hu Tao flinched at how loud you screamed and it took everything in her to return your gaze, wide in ferocity. "I apologize—"

"I did not seek your repentance. I asked for an explanation." Came your clipped response.

"The poison was not administered through the food eaten. It was laced in the utensils."

"...Xingqiu..." You mumbled and everyone else shared a look.

"Sister..." Your older brother finally approached, taking one of your hand to clasp in between yours. "Let's talk about this later."

"Is he dead? Is that why you're avoiding it?"

He swallows at your cold tone. "He's alive."

"Then why?"

"...The Young Master is in a coma. The dosage he took was more than yours, my lady." The doctor finally managed to cough out.

Knowing your next question, your brother mutters, "we've yet to find the culprit."

"Get out."

"Sister—!"

You glare. A foreign chill unfolds in your chambers and everyone hustles to leave the room. Before long, you were alone, hoping that death took you instead.

If I could turn back the time, I would treat you kindly, my dear brother! This time, I shall be the one to protect you.

You laugh weakly, pressing your knees close to your chest as you blankly shoved your face into it. Was it fun? Was it just so entertaining to watch you grapple at everything just to survive only to fail at the end? Was it just so wonderfully nice to witness you break as the people you care about suffer the consequences of your actions?

You failed Xingqiu yet again and your muffled cries was a prayer on its own; that in his next life, may he live unassociated to you.

"Since when have you been so weak?"

A voice breaks you out of your melancholy but you barely paid it any heed after that.

"Are you ignoring me? How audacious."

"...Why are you here?"

You hear shuffling before the foam beside you sinks with a groan from your intruder. "It's been three days and you didn't meet me. I was wondering if you suddenly dropped out of our agreement."

"Now is not a good time, Your Majesty."

"Clearly." You could almost see the way he rolled his eyes.

A tense, hesitant silence fills the gaps of your unspoken conversation. Against your will, you sigh and slump down beside him. He sniffs, clears his throat before you feel fingers reluctantly tangling with yours. You don't speak and he breathes out in relief. The newly crowned Emperor and you couldn't be any more different but it was your same reluctance to speak of anything that involved the ugly visage of your deepest feelings that made it easier to understand each other. He doesn't need the details of your thoughts nor the labyrinth that has become your heart and you don't need to speak of the relief that came with his touch. You know. He knows. There was no need to make mention of it. For your and his prides' sake.

Kunikuzushi turns to his side, a large hand finding its place on your waist. It falls under your chemise, drawing a pattern that vaguely felt like the waves of Inazuma's waters. With him so close to you, you could feel his breath fanning against your neck. It tickles and you made your displeasure clear with a grunt and a retaliation that came in the form of nuzzling your face into his chest.

"The audacity..." He whispers under his breath but his voice bled of no offense. "Stop doing that. Your hair is making me sneeze."

"You can deal with it surely, Your Majesty."

"Whether you're sarcastic or serious, I cannot tell."

You crack a weak smile and by the long exhale he lets go of, he felt it.

"...You smell nice."

A part of your lips in surprise. Of all the things you expected to hear from him, a compliment was not even on the list. In the end, you settle for a quiet "you too" and a small squeeze.

"There are Inazuman soldiers stationed around the perimeter of the mansion and if someone tries to bring trouble, regardless of the target, they will move."

You furrow your brows and he waits before he continues.

"In a matter of a few hours, we will wage war against Snezhnaya. The council of those old-geezers found the evidence from the manufacturing plant sufficient."

"...What are you saying?"

"Are you obtuse? Were you dropped and hit on the head as a child?" He scoffs.

You open your mouth to retaliate in offense but he beats you to it, withdrawing just to flick your forehead with his fingers.

"Go to sleep. Everything will be fine."

His amethyst colored eyes shone radiantly compared to the muted world that surrounds you. As his gaze focused on you—not on anything else, not even your hand that has moved to crumple his dress shirt in your fist—you felt removed from the rest of this universe's cruelty. It was just you, the calm melody of his heart, and the embarrassed bob of his Adam's apple. You couldn't help but laugh as one by one, the shackles that weighed you down slowly cracked. His intentions were clear and you almost despise the feeling that accompanied it.

I'm here.

You smile—or at least attempted to—lips wobbling as your eyes watered up once more. Before they could fall, you close them as tight as you could; like a child in a secure embrace (which you had half the mind to think that you were) and ventured into a peaceful slumber.

The Feiyun family's head chef, Mao, was someone who becomes heated the moment someone considers cooking as anything less than art. Like a true maestro, he names each of his dishes with increasingly abstract titles. One was named "Universal Peace," saying that he once contemplated the societal issues that plagued Liyue and came up with the dish as a "first step to the solution." It was a rice dish mixed with lotus heads, carrots, and berries. The flavor was not bad—why would it be with your entire family's standards? However, the reason behind your preference for it was because of Xingqiu. Your little brother detested carrots and seeing him miserable at the dining table, tossing around the carrots with his chopsticks and being met with your mother's criticism... Well, it was a rich source of amusement for your childhood self. You weren't that horrible, though. For him, you'd glance at your mother, receive your father's and your older brother's knowing looks before quickly picking up his share of carrots and putting it on your bowl. Then, you'd act innocent, your facade only failing when your mother claps her hand as she compliments Xingqiu for finishing his meal. Between the sheepish smile he gives and your incessant giggles, it was surprising that your mother never caught on to your little mischief.

"My lady? Dinner is here."

You hear Shenhe's footsteps approach your sitting form softly as if she was afraid of breaking your solemnity. "Leave it here."

"...As you wish."

The bowl is the same as you remember it to be. Perfectly cupped rice with chopped carrots embedded on top like a tangerine-colored crown with golden jewels in the form of berries. You grin weakly at the childish analogy. Xingqiu would detest it with his big vocabulary and stylish sentences. Picking up your utensils, you begin by grabbing a piece of carrot. It could be some weird homage of sorts in your mind. If he was awake, he'd surely crinkly his brows, nose upturned and lips twisted into a big, disgusted frown. Maybe he'd shiver, question your actions, then pointedly try to avoid looking at your direction.

"Call Hu Tao."

Shenhe bows at your words before leaving you once more in the lifeless room. The window was kept slightly ajar per your wishes and the wind would make the curtains billow out every now and then. It was cool and you place your food by the bedside table to adjust the blankets that covered the peacefully sleeping form of your sibling.

The attendants did well in tidying him up once more. He smelled of Calla Lilies with a slight mix of Jueyun Chilis and Sandalwood. The perfume was a gift from you for his fifteenth birthday and he has been using it ever since. It did well in giving him color, or a little bit of life if you were to be blunter with words. They've also added some makeup; a little rouge on the lips, smudged into a subtle pink and tinted powder to mask the paleness he retained. You reckon it was your mother's doing. She always disliked it when any of you three looked sickly. Always saying that Feiyuns must always be presentable with that worried pout on her face. It must be a cultural thing—hiding concern behind tangents and nagging. In any case, you were thankful for her work. Xingqiu no longer looked dead or at the brink of it. Instead, he looked as if he was peacefully at rest, dreaming of wonderlands and righteous acts alike. You can't say for sure what his interests were. You wished you put more effort in knowing but regret comes last.

You move to swipe his bangs away from his eyes before you pause and retreated back into your folded form. Do you even have the right to do this still? To be a sister? What kind of family causes such misfortune to fall on another one of their own? An unworthy one, at the very least.

Another soft knock breaks you out of your thoughts and you frown at how everyone is tiptoeing around you over eggshells. "Enter."

"You called for me, my lady?"

"Have you caught them?"

Hu Tao clicks her tongue. "Aiya... Must you really go back to thinking so soon?"

"Time waits for no one. As long as I stay alive, they will attack again." The chair creaks under your weight as you moved to look at your friend. "We may not be so lucky next time and I have no intention of finding out."

"You make a great point."

"I always do."

"The Duke lined up all the attendants working during the approximate time of the poisoning. We caught the servant but before we could interrogate her, ink crawled through her skin and suffocated her."

"Ink?" You repeat.

"Patterns engraved on her skin. It climbed from her wrist to her neck. It happened too quickly to stop."

Magic.

You tapped a pattern on the armrest, mind unfolding various schemes at the span of seconds. By itself, magic is quite rare but it wasn't hard to hire a sorcerer or a witch if you had enough money. However, to plant a mole inside your family's walls... They had to have a certain degree of influence and power. It couldn't possibly be easy so you could only surmise that they must have great motivations to go that far. Hate. Vengeance. Machinations. You could only wonder which it was.

The obvious guess would be Marquis Ajax Caeli. He did it once, he can do it again. It was more than possible that he found out that you knew of his plans and decided that it was better to cut you, a raging red loose end, as early as now.

It could also be the Ambassador Kamisato. Though you and he were bound by association, the truth was that you've already played your part. With his unyielding devotion towards Inazuma's best interests and your unpredictable nature, he could very well have changed his mind mid-way and perceived you more as a threat than a beneficial ally.

His Imperial Majesty, Emperor Zhongli... It could be him. Though you were investigating a matter for him, he could have been more thorough than you anticipated and had someone investigate you in turn. Though you trust Yanfei's protection and information, you can never be too sure. If he found out of your "misdeeds..." Well, he had you killed once upon a time for the same reason.

The other emperor, Emperor Kunikuzushi... It was unlikely that it was him but was it your grateful heart's bias or your mind's purely rational deduction? If you squint, it can be suspicious that he was there in your chambers and immediately aware of your circumstances. If he was lying about keeping his end of the deal and only used you for the success of his coup... Oh, how precarious your situation would be...

And the Baron, Albedo Trifolium. It might be a stretch—you barely knew him and he barely knows anything about you. He shouldn't have any reason to go far and beyond to dispose of you. However, the nature of the servant's death was suspicious and if it truly was Khemia as you hypothesize, he, as the only known descendant of the race capable of such arts in Liyue, is immediately suspicious.

Of course, there was also the possibility that it was someone else entirely. Someone you haven't interacted with at all or someone who simply has it for you.

You groan, placing your head in between your palms.

"My lady?" The silent question hangs in the air and you shake your head "no."

"Ask Lady Iusticia to keep an eye on Emperor Zhongli and his wings. If they move oddly, tell her to inform me at once. Similarly, contact Countess Yun and ask her to keep tabs on Emperor Kunikuzushi. Under the guise of keeping track of the news about his war, she is to report to me any suspicious activity as well. You do the same for Ambassador Kamisato and Ajax."

Hu Tao blinks before nodding her head.

"If you bump into Shenhe, tell her to send an invitation to Baron Trifolium. I will deal with him myself."

"I received your orders, my lady."

"...Good."

Hu Tao manages to take five steps before she freezes, a familiar glint appearing on her peripheral paired with a coolness pressed against her throat. You remain silent for a while, enjoying the tenseness on her shoulders with a stoic expression before you smile tenderly. Insincerity oozes out of you from your stance to your slow blinks. For such a day to come where you draw your blade against your people... Life was full of surprises.

"This will not happen again. You will do your job well and without any faults. This... This is a command. Do you understand me, Hu Tao?"

"...Yes, my lady."

You moved your weapon closer and with a gulp, Hu Tao's skin bleeds lightly. "Do not forget. I own you. From the day I decided to spare you from whatever tragedy orphans are predestined for, your fealty was expected."

"My allegiance will always be with you, my lady. I will not disappoint you again."

The firmness of her voice makes you soften and you drop your blade back to your side. With a sigh and a weak wave she didn't see, you dismissed Hu Tao who immediately returned to her mischievous persona the moment the door clicked shut.

Good riddance.

You slumped back on your chair, eyes tracing over your brother's unflinching form. "Now we wait, dear brother... Now we wait."

Your heels click against the granite tiles of the Palace's hall. Beside you, a familiar gait accompanies your ordinarily solo waltz. You briefly see him gulp, glancing at you every now and frankly, it was getting old.

"Ambassador, if you want to say something, you can spit it out. I promise I won't cry."

On any other day, the Ambassador might have frowned distastefully at your words but instead, he only released a heavy breath. "I heard of what happened. It must have been hard. I cannot imagine how I would be able to keep my wits together if my sister..."

He doesn't dare continue and you snort. While you detest him for bringing it up, you also couldn't help but find his out-of-character reticence quite endearing.

"...I apologize that I must ask for a favor so soon."

"Pressing matters wait for none. We cannot afford to dally if we want to keep on top of our enemies."

You halt in your steps and the Ambassador too slows. He looks at you, adjusting his cuffs before nodding at the pair of guards that stand in front of throne room.

"The Young Lady of Feiyun and the Ambassador of Inazuma are entering!"

You square your shoulders before smiling at the already composed Ambassador. For the first time, you feel like you could be genuine with him. Especially now when you were facing the same foe. "Shall we, my lord?"

"We shall." Ambassador Kamisato takes your hand, gently brushing a thumb over your knuckles before placing it securely on his arm.

The regal doors open.

You've never had a reason to enter the throne room. Conferences with the other nobles were attended by the Head of the House which you were not and even so, it was done in the meeting room located in the Southeastern Wing. In the rare occasions that your father brought you and your siblings along, you busied yourself in the Imperial Gardens. For celebratory matters, on the other hand, you find yourself situated in one of the many banquet halls in the Palace.

On a normal day, there were only two reasons that could possibly be behind the utilization of the throne room. One, it was for when the Emperor was receiving guests from foreign lands. Second, it was for when the Emperor was hearing the pleas of the commoners. There was another reason and that is the enthronement of the monarch. However, given how the current Emperor was not wed for a new Empress to be crowned and his... unique circumstances, that was nullified.

You have to say though. It was a waste for the room to be used so infrequently. Golden colored banners and stone-carved pillars line the way to the throne which was situated behind a curved glass window that clearly displayed the vast vicinity of the Palace. Above, gilded structures surround a glass dome. The natural light abundant in the hall bounced every so often on the spotless floor that formed abstract shapes that alternated black and white, of course also dusted with gold. You remember it. The Duke of Feiyun was the one who bought it from Mondstadt after the Emperor complained of the irremovable blood stains left by his rebellion. The carpet that unfolded from the doorway and up to the tiered-steps that elevated the throne was also Feiyun's addition. There was a time when the Emperor could only be satiated when all the attention was directed at him.

Now, it was hard to imagine him as anything but dignified. Your last meeting was much more informal than the present. Located a few meters in front of you was Emperor Zhongli in all his glory. His hair, kept in his usual low ponytail, draped flawlessly over his shoulders. He had a large, black overcoat, underlined with vermillion-colored ruffle layers and embroidered with dragon-shaped imageries and golden scales. Underneath was a thinner brown, bordering black, robe worn over a skin-tight black top that reached up the middle of his neck. You could make out a few accessories that shone brilliantly from the distance. He had the same ring—the silver dragon that curled around his finger. It must be of great importance for it to be worn despite not exactly working together his color scheme.

"We greet your Imperial Majesty, the Emperor of the Liyue Empire." You bow. "Thank you for meeting with us despite the short notice."

"Be at ease, Lady Feiyun. Now tell me. What can I do for you both?" He chuckles as he blows from his pipe. You tilt your head. The Emperor was oddly lax today. Though his back was straight, his legs were spread comfortably enough without seeming lousy. It was something new but not something worth criticizing. After all, his unbothered demeanor spoke volumes of his power—of who was in control in the room.

You hated it.

"I have come to submit my report and my findings just so happen to make a very interesting connection with the Ambassador's. Can we trouble you to hear us out, Your Majesty?"

Chapter 7: LIÙ — A VENGEFUL RESISTANCE.

Chapter Text

"—And so, Inazuma seeks Your Majesty's aid in conquering our common enemy."

The Emperor stares down the Ambassador with an unreadable smile on his face. Then, he turns to you, and you hate how his gaze slid over your skin. It was nigh omniscient, and it could very well be the residual anxiety from your past life but the way he coolly sat in front of you was no different from how the gods once looked down on you with a single coin that dictated your life and death.

"Lady Feiyun, what do you intend to do with the Marquis?"

"The Marquis has betrayed us—me—by plotting against my nation. It is only apt that he receives the right punishment."

"And what is right?"

"Death." You blink, before plastering a smile on your face. "Or whatever Your Majesty sees fit."

Morax laughs, tapping away the burnt contents of his pipe. "Then I shall trust Lady Feiyun's judgment. Ganyu—" he turns to his secretary—"have General Alatus come."

"Yes, Your Majesty."

You wait until Ganyu's footsteps no longer resound in the room before looking at both men who kept you company. "There is one more thing I must inform you."

"...Pardon?" The Ambassador turns to you with a perplexed expression. You grin playfully. While it was true that you could have easily told him of this before, you wanted to share the glorious sight of his confusion with at least one other person. Judging by the Emperor's smiling visage, it seemed that you both find joy in similar things. Sometimes, at least.

"Do share, Lady Feiyun."

"Snezhnaya was not acting alone." Both men furrow their brows at your words. "I have reason to believe that the true people behind these events are the survivors from Khaenri'ah."

"Khaenri'ah? But it has to be at least 500 years since they last made an appearance," the Ambassador mutters to himself, and though not directed at him, the Emperor nods in agreement before speaking slowly.

"...What are these evidences you speak of?"

"The Duke managed to intercept a correspondence between the Marquis' secretary and an unknown individual. The contents of the letter was hidden behind a Khemian illusion."

"And what does it say?" Ayato asks.

"They used a strange language. We have yet to decipher the code but I have asked my linguist acquaintance from Sumeru for help. However, this alone establishes that Snezhnaya knows of the existence of these survivors."

The Emperor shakes his head. "Even if that were true, they can very well be seeking refuge only and not any aid for nefarious plots."

"I, too, gave the Marquis the benefit of the doubt but then it happened. An assassination attempt against me. It didn't succeed but... Well, you both must have been made aware of the news already. My older brother hired many people from different fields to figure out what was wrong with our sibling." You pause. "...A witch told us that she could feel Khemian influence in his body."

"Given the timing, they could have learned of the investigation." The Emperor hums but the Ambassador frowns.

"While I cannot deny that something does feel amiss with these situation, ultimately, your findings, my lady, are circumstantial."

"Then you'd be pleased to know that I managed to procure Orobaxi and had it tested out for Khemian influence as well."

"Ah." They both clicked their tongue in displeasure.

"...This is a surprising turn of events. We have to prepare for a possible war against them as well."

The Emperor chuckles darkly. "Has it not started already?"

"Thanks to Emperor Kunikuzushi's...uh...efforts, the court is cleared of whatever influence they might have had from the previous reign but for Liyue..." Ayato clears his throat.

"I will address the issues of our nation myself, Ambassador. You only need to worry after your own."

"Your Majesty, there is no need to be so hostile now that we are allies."

Ayato laughs seemingly lightheartedly but you and the Emperor both took notice of the unnecessary sharpness of his tone. Tension brews in the atmosphere of the throne room, and you could only roll your eyes at the sheer weight of your acquaintances' combined egos and prideful masculinity. "Let's focus on what we can deal with for now, Ambassador, Your Majesty. That is, let us focus on removing one of their limbs."

"Right. Alatus—" the Emperor clears his throat—"did you hear that?"

"Yes, Your Majesty."

You freeze. That voice...

"Prepare to go to war. From this moment henceforth, our Empire and Inazuma shall repay the generosity of our foreign friends."

"Keep up the pace."

Your bare arms tingle, weighted by an invisible cloth that once shielded you from the rest of the world. It was pressed perfectly, smelling of fresh laundry yet colored crimson like the blood that it likely dragged through many times before. The soldier from back then and the general of Teyvat's largest army... An incredulous laugh almost pours out of you before you hurriedly stifle it. Instead, you cross your arms, glancing at his shadow before facing the Emperor once more.

"Your Majesty, the Duke told me of his intention to rally the nobles together. Please allow me to check on his progress."

"...I see. That would be of much help. You are dismissed. You may go as well, Ambassador."

You curtsy and you do not miss the strange look the General sent your way as you exited the hall. Noticing your discomfort, Ambassador Kamisato races to catch up to you, offering a guiding hand which you gladly took. The moment the doors behind you closed, you attempt to pull away from the man yet a firm hand keeps you there.

"...Ambassador?"

"Lady Feiyun," he says slowly—hesitantly, "would you like a cup of tea? My treat, of course."

"My, what is going on inside your head today? Neither hostile nor manipulative words? Must be my lucky day."

"We are formally allies now. Collaborators shouldn't be treating each other so coldly, shouldn't they?"

You huff out, amusement swirling beneath your eyes. He was clearly still trying to comfort you, and whilst you appreciated his efforts, you preferred the minuscule hope that he was doing it just for fun. It was better that way—easier to pretend that everything was fine. Still, you couldn't help but inch closer to his side. Despite that usual cold demeanor of his, you could feel the warmth of his palms seep past his gloves, especially when he moved them to the small of your back.

"Very well, then. Lead the way."

"Wait—!" You both turn to the direction of the panicked call. "Lady Feiyun! An urgent letter for you arrived!"

You exchange looks with the Ambassador before sighing. "I suppose we'll have to have that tea some other day."

"It's a shame but I'll leave you to it, Lady Feiyun. Ah, but don't be so quick to tune me out if ever I decide to visit." He sends you his trademark closed-eye smile, and you couldn't help but return it with one of your own.

"I'll consider it depending on your offering gift."

The Ambassador shakes his head with a small chuckle before leaving you and Ganyu alone. She waits until she could no longer see his back before handing you the letter. With your thanks, she too leaves you to inspect the letter.

At first glance, there was nothing special about it; just a typical crisp, white envelope that was sealed with green-colored wax. However, the sigil embedded on it was anything but that. It held the emblem of the Haravatat Darshan of the Akademiya—the largest academic body in Teyvat that also operates a third of the three states that make up the Sumeru Kingdoms. It was involved in the study of linguistics and judging by the elegant script at the bottom right corner of the envelope, it was written by its Scribe. You trace over it with a fond smile before quickly fixing your expression to a more collected one lest someone sees. With one last look at the piece of paper, you pocket the letter to be read later on when you are in relative privacy. You were about to head home when you see it: a glittering white butterfly that slowly vanished into thin-air.

"He works faster than I anticipated..." You mumble as you switch directions. "Well, not like that is a bad thing."

Before long, you were approaching the entrance of the Imperial Library. You enter the door with a purpose, heading directly to the far corner of the library where a certain man was seated, buried in his books.

"Greetings, Baron. How do you fair today?"

He frowns before standing up to bow courteously in front of you. "Lady Feiyun, you're here."

"Well, you called for me."

"I did. I found some information that might interest you." You hum as you sit in front of him. "As per our contract, I informed you."

"Yes, yes... I didn't forget, don't worry... You're receiving your end of the bargain even as we speak, yes?"

He doesn't respond, instead pushing a pile of papers for you to read. You take it graciously, skimming over the words that made a rush of emotions flood you, dizzying you almost. Still, you glance up at the Baron with an almost teasing smile, tapping the papers back into a neat pile on the table.

"Look at you. You're gaining so much already, and we're barely a week into our partnership."

"It is all thanks to your generosity, my lady." He politely smiles.

"Sure, whatever you say." You laugh behind your palm and the Baron's eyes widen before they too crinkle with mirth. "Still, this does change quite a bit for us."

"You have all the more reason to win the war."

You quirk a brow up. "How did you know about that?"

"Just simple deduction, my lady. You've not been discreet with your work since..."

Since the assassination attempt. Your smile turns cold as that small reminder awakens the grudge you held over your enemies. It is vile, even for you, how your wrath made your bloodlust come to life. You like to think you weren't as horrible of a person as others were but by the gods, you could only laugh menacingly. They all have the penchant for turning you into a monster.

"My lady?" He calls, voice laced with concern.

"Nothing to worry over, Baron. Good work on your investigation. Detecting traces of magic must have been tough work. Your success saved the Ambassador and I the effort of convincing the Emperor to work with us."

He parts his lips. "The Ambassador of Inazuma? He was with you?"

"...Yes? Is that a problem?"

He promptly shakes his head, a foreign look painting his flawless face.

"Going back to our point, any sorcerer who's knowledgeable with the basics can easily detect traces of magic. It was not too difficult, my lady. The other matter you asked of me is more challenging, per se. Still, I will continue with my research. I believe I am close to making a breakthrough."

"That is great news. The sooner we decipher the mystery that is Orobaxi, the sooner we can find a cure."

"...Do you intend to make a profit from this too?" He stares you down with a small discontented glimmer in his eyes.

"Do I really seem heartless in your eyes, my lord? You wound me, truly." One of your palms press dramatically on your chest as you slump down your chair. "To answer your question, though, yes. That is the only way we can distribute the medicine as fast as possible. The name Feiyun is trusted by the people after all. I'll be sure to minimize my income if it displeases you, not to worry."

He makes a sound of acknowledgement, and it prompts you to continue. "Besides, this ought to make our enemies a little nervous. Who knows, maybe they'd panic if we put a massive wrench in their plans."

You smile innocently under his still-apprehensive stare. When he sighed in defeat, you finally look away—gazing instead on the large grandfather clock at the front of the room. It was quarter past nine and with your scheduled meeting with your father, you thought it was best that you start heading back. Before you could even say a word, the Baron stood up with an understanding smile on his face.

"Thank you for your time today, my lady." He steps around the table to take your hand in his, pressing a kiss that lingered over your skin before he stands upright once more. "I have no intention of keeping you from where you need to be."

You laugh before waving him off, fingers tracing over where he touched discreetly before you snap out of it with a shake of your head. "Thank you for your hard work as well, my lord. Keep it up."

He sends you one last nod before you retreat out of the library. You immediately spot Shenhe waiting for you by the exit. She bows when you make contact and immediately falls to your pace with practiced ease.

"The carriage is waiting for you in front, my lady. Unless you plan to do anything else?"

"No, let's get going. Our next destination would be Xinyue Kiosk."

"Understood. Shall I send word that we are on our way?"

"No need. I'm sure the Duke is expecting me."

Shenhe nods in reply, opening the carriage door for you so you could climb in. You immediately situate yourself inside, tugging out a small dagger from under your skirt. By now, Shenhe does not even flinch, having been used to your unconventional acts when hidden in the shadows. What surprises her, instead, is the almost excited look you donned. You waste no time in taking out the letter you just received, slicing the blade underneath the wax seal. The paper folded within was as crisp as it can be and, whether it was just your imagination or not, you thought you could make out the rich scent of perfume—of mint leaves and green apples and lightly, of wood.

To the Young Lady of House Feiyun,

Your lips twitched up affectionately as you traced over the cursive letters etched with fine black ink. You couldn't help but notice how sharp he writes his alphabet though that in itself was quite fitting of his character. You remember how he once boldly cursed at you in one of his childhood letters after you gave him an incomplete book out of mischief. He had crossed his f's and t's with such heavy emotion that it almost stabbed through the parchment. You sigh, suddenly filled with nostalgia and a lovely appreciation for the bygone days that were much easier than your present.

I finished deciphering the letter. I'll tell you the results in person. —AH

You eye the last words then the humongous empty space after it before chuckling in bewilderment. It was so like him to be so straight-to-the-point that he ends up wasting a perfectly good piece of paper. Then again, you lean against the covered window of the carriage, it was because he stayed as firm as he was against the passage of time that you found him even more endearing.

"My lady? Is everything alright? You've been staring at the paper for quite some time now."

You briefly looked at Shenhe before your soft smile emerged once more. "Nothing, it's just... Well," you chuckle breathlessly, "my eagle is coming home."

"...Eagle?" Shenhe mutters to herself but made no move to inquire further.

The letter was folded back into its original state to be added in one of the boxes under your bed, accompanied by the rest of the letters sent by your penpal all throughout your time of knowing him. Just as you pocketed it once more, three consecutive knocks resounded in the small cabin followed by a muffled "we have arrived" from the coachman. Shenhe steps out before you, discreetly signaling for the nearby guard to escort you out. You almost snort as you watch him clumsily scurry your way. Still, you accept his outstretched hand, carefully stepping down the carriage's step and nodding in gratitude at the waitress who opened the door to the establishment for you. She leads you to the private room immediately, and even from outside, you could hear the loud guffaws and gossips of the old men who rule over the important aspects of human life in Liyuen society. Even amongst the chatter, you hear your father's almost bored tone of voice overpower the atmosphere. That makes you sigh in relief, before entering yourself.

"I greet the noble Dukes of our Empire."

"Ah! Lady Feiyun! You look well! It's been a while since we heard from you." Duke Tian speaks exuberantly before motioning to a nearby empty seat near your father.

"That's true. You used to be the topic of high society every week. ...For good reasons, of course."

Ah, the sugarcoating and the faux niceties... You smile politely despite the ever-growing frustration in your heart harbored by the necessity to deal with these... You glance at your father who was looking much more alive now that he was amusing himself with these men and your displeasure. Thankfully, he had at least some semblance of sympathy because after a decent amount of time passed, he excused you both for some fresh air. No one questioned him, much less complained. No one wants to go against the Duke for no reason, after all. You tip your head in parting before following after your father who spared not even a glance at his colleagues.

"Ah... Finally..." He mumbles under his breath and you could only chuckle in reply at your shared solace. "Well, shall I begin or will you?"

"You can go first."

He taps his cane on the floor in thought before moving his gaze to the world below the restaurant. "The nobility promised to provide at least a portion of their troops and some resources for the war effort. But, of course, those ungrateful wenches are looking at Feiyun to shoulder most of it."

"What was it that they say? 'The powerless looks up to the strong for favors?'"

The Duke snorts. "Either way, it all worked out in my end."

"I never doubted you in the first place." You lean on the railing, fiddling with your rings. "In any case, everything worked out well on my end as well. The Emperor is sending his General as we speak."

"The General..." The Duke trails off.

"Is something wrong?"

"No. I'm just surprised that he's sending his prized tool so early in the game. ...What is he thinking?"

You don't reply, not knowing how to.

"Anyway, is there anything else?"

"The letter has been deciphered. I'm waiting to receive the results. As for our new business venture, well, it appears that we would be able to start distribution soon."

"Ho?" The Duke laughs out loud. "You surround yourself with such interesting characters."

"Shall we just say I learnt it from you?"

He shakes his head. "Even I was not so bold in my youth. Well, it benefits us so I cannot say that I am against it. In fact, continue as you do."

"Speaking of... Father, I learnt of one more thing."

He makes a small noise prompting you to continue.

" Do you recall the Snezhnayan Viscount that you hosted at our manor last year?"

The Duke hums. "Yes, I do recall him. What of it?"

"When I called for the Baron to have him help with the… investigation on the assassination attempt, he said he felt traces of magic on a few items in our home. I didn't think much of it then and allowed him to take everything of interest. Well, the results of his analysis came out today and he found that residual magic on a journal left behind by the Viscount was very similar to the ones found on Orobaxi samples. Even further, it has a concentration that rivals that of royal mages' caliber from back in the day."

"...A sorcerer that skilled in the Tsaritsa's court… If we capture whoever that is..."

You continue after your father's thoughts. "It'll be an opening—a first look at an enemy who we have no idea about."

"But to think they are operating so closely to the monarch... How far has their influence spread in Liyue?" You carefully eye the Duke's tense expression before replying.

"I apologize, Father. I do not have an answer for you. His Majesty was very careful in our meeting earlier as well. It appears that he does not wish to disclose this information even to us."

The Duke closes his eyes, a wistful sigh escaping his chapped lips before he's unclenching his jaw. He turns to you with a small smile, placing a firm, consoling hand on your shoulder before speaking.

"...There's no need to burden yourself with unanswerable questions for now."

"Right..."

And yet no matter how much you try to overlook certain matters, your gut keeps pestering you anyway. The Emperor... What is the answer behind his conundrum? You ran a hand across your face, a frown permanently etched on your face. For some reason, you think you're missing something.

"Let's head back in. The noon heat is uncomfortable."

"...After you, Father."

The afternoon sun gently kisses you, granting an effervescent, golden cast over your skin. You keen towards it—like a cat during the colder months. That might not be too far off from reality. It was fast approaching January which meant that so was your supposed execution date. As it stood, you were quite confident that your head would remain safely on your shoulders but... You have a feeling that your death flag has morphed into a different, more dangerous one. You groan into your pillow before abruptly returning to laying on your backside.

"How annoying..."

"Shouldn't you be complaining less and getting ready more?"

You huff out, shifting your gaze to the man who was busying himself with signing papers on your study table. With a sigh, you take your iced lemonade. You sat up, drinking yet taking him in from the rim of the glass. Despite his frustrating attitude and unyielding worldview, your friend was overwhelmingly attractive. He has sharp features that would no doubt leave a lasting impression on anyone. He's a little more tanned than how you remember him when he was still part of the exchange program your family once hosted but other than that, it seemed like he did not change at all. He kept the same style of hair—in that pretty shade of grey that reminded you of stormy skies. Stormy skies... It suits him. Especially with his mind that was always brewing something, and his piercing gaze that was as sharp as lightning.

"Are you done staring at me?"

Your eyes widen but you quickly place a smug smile on your face. "Not quite. There's a lot to unearth in you."

The chair he was seating on creaks under his weight as he shifts. He tips his head down, casting a dark shadow over his expression, highlighting the way he was looking like you as if you were one of his many meals. "I'd pick up the pace if I were you. Sitting here and looking pretty for you was not part of our deal."

"No one asked you to partake in anything." You roll your eyes, fiddling with the ends of your hair as you looked away. It was getting hard to ignore his awe-striking form. You were only human after all. Who are you against the skin-tight suit that left nothing to the imagination? You could see the way his muscles tensed, the way his chest pumped in and out with every breath.

You shake your head discretely as a thought briefly flashes through your mind. You're going insane, you're sure of it.

"A normal person would be more appreciative. I did file my leave of absence for this."

"Yes, yes. Thank you oh so very much, my dear knight in shining armor."

He scrunches his face up in disgust momentarily before moving back to his stoic disposition. "Please don't call me that."

"Though... I do owe you for coming to my aid." You walked over to him, letting the fabrics of your gown drape over the floor with each step. "Thank you. What can I do for you in return?"

He opens his legs to make room for you, a place you immediately take for yourself with a pleased smile. "...What are you willing to give?"

You run a finger across his shoulder. From above him, you could make out the finer details that were also worth the appreciation. He was naturally flushed, emphasizing his dark, thick lashes that fluttered close as you carefully removed a stray strand that stuck dangerously close to his eye.

"Anything within reason." You reply, leaving your palms on his cheek and squishing them much to the male's annoyance.

"Then," he takes your wrists in his to tug them down, "please get back to work and stop making me do it for you."

You pout. "Why are you suddenly bringing that up? Can't you do me just one more favor?"

He narrows his eyes before pushing you off—careful not to hurt you still. "How did you rope Xingqiu in doing this every day?"

"...Because he's a good kid who always wanted to help his sister." You smile forlornly, unable to hide anything from him anyway. Alhaitham narrows his eyes at your words before placing his hands on your waist, firm and comforting in a manner only he can commit to.

You scrunch your face as you pull your friend into a hug. On a normal day, he'd probably refuse and pull away but perhaps, in his own way, Alhaitham was looking out for you after what he considers a traumatic incident. Instead, he lets you rest your palms on his broad shoulders, allows you to pull him in until he was all but buried in your skin.

"You're right, though. I should probably get back to thinking soon with what you brought back." You sigh, tearing yourself away from him but before you could move too far away, his arms wound themselves around your waist, forcing you to take a seat on one of his thighs.

"...Continue."

You clear your throat, trying your best to ignore the small circles he was making on your lower hip. "The cipher you decoded was strange. 'Heaven's judgment has come?' Do you think it's some code within their ranks?"

"Possibly. From the context of Mondstadt's literature, perhaps they are referring to a significant day in their plans. Something akin to a time where the ultimate and final act of their conspiracy will commence."

"If that's the case, we're in more trouble than I anticipated. We need to slow them down somehow."

"...I could be wrong. That Marquis..." Alhaitham's face grows dim.

"Ajax? What about him?"

You feel him tense and you subconsciously played with his hair. "You told me he's relied on by the Tsaritsa. He should be made aware of more critical information. We can arrange our plans better after we learn of their plans."

"That's banking on the fact that he'll speak."

"To you he will."

"Oh, you don't know anything..." You laugh humorlessly.

Alhaitham does not reply but with how he rolls his eyes, you knew that he did not believe you. You do not push the topic either, leaning on him instead.

"The beginning of a war is always important. Winning the first battle decides the troop's morale. If I were the Tsaritsa, I'd send him in first. Tell your pawns to get it together."

"...Pawns?" You giggle in-between a yawn. "Such strange words to refer to some of the most powerful people alive..."

Alhaitham looks at you unamused.

"Anyway, since you're going to be freeloading here anyway... Please help me manage my territorial duties. My attention for the next few weeks would be elsewhere."

"Haven't I been doing that anyway because you're lounging around without a care in the world?"

You blink innocently and Alhaitham lets out a grunt before pushing your face away. He even smirks when you let out a shriek of complaint.

Chapter 8: Qī — A STARLESS NIGHT.

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

There was something very specific with the stench of blood that makes it laughably easy to discern despite other aromas invading your olfactory senses. It beats even the scent of the damp earth or the sweat that clung onto the skins of the soldiers that surround you. The Emperor glanced at you momentarily, catching you right on time as you scrunched your face in disgust.

"Not backing out on me now, are you?" He grins boyishly as he sheathes his katana. He looks at home—like the freakish sights before you were mere figments of the imagination of a troubled artist. Your skin crawled, feeling the invisible licks of flies that would feast on the cold carcasses left behind by the time daylight peeks. You think the Emperor would find some sick delight in that, and much like a carriage accident, you can't seem to look away from the debris and horrendous sight of his deceivingly innocent glee.

"I wouldn't dream of it, Your Majesty."

Kunikuzushi lifts his hand, finding solace over your cheek as he rubbed a strip over your cheekbones. It causes red to smudge onto you though your path has long since strayed from that of a saint. Forget chastising him or even the bare minimum of being drenched in the cold waters of disgust—you only leaned into his palm more. He giggles. Whenever you share little interactions like this, it always feels like you were separated from the rest of the world. It wasn't as if time slowed—just that it lost most of its meaning. You could spend hours trying to figure out the mysteries behind those indigo eyes or if there was any truth to the faint youthful glimmer in his eyes whenever he was with you. It was ironic to think of him with as much innocence when he was nearly covered with blood.

"Well, let's go. You have to keep your promise too."

You purse your lips in reply, choosing to stay within the sanctuary of your silence. With it came along the acute awareness of your surroundings; of how it was barely past midnight and the salt of the Inazuman seas made your tongue feel heavy. Spears and swords clash with loud clangs and explosives crafted with dark magic made ear-shattering booms echo under the beach you were stepping on. The distasteful noise disturbs the stench of death on the air—displacing time itself as you watch bodies of allies and enemies alike fall with broken wails and coughed out spurts of blood.

"There he is—" Your thoughts were halted by the mocking tone of the young Emperor beside you who nodded his head east when he saw you turn to face him from the corner of his eyes—"Ambassador Sotskova of Snezhnaya. The filthy rat... Look at him running away with his tail between his legs. The arrogant fool!"

You ignore his manic laughter in favor of zeroing in on the Ambassador. Approximately five hours ago, he was just a no-name diplomat doing very little work to uphold the fragile peace between the seven nations but now, he was one of the most wanted men in Inazuman soil, having been leaked to be a direct subordinate to Marchioness Rosalyne Lohefalter who was tasked with colluding with His Majesty's younger sister to dethrone him. You could give them some credit. It was a good plan to stop the war brewing behind the scenes but unfortunately, it was all too easy to pay off Her Royal Highness' attendants to spy for you even when the Emperor was still just a Crown Prince.

"He's boarded the ship," you note, lips curled at the amusing sight.

"You'll be pleased to know that Inazuma's naval forces are the strongest among the seven. Though, I suppose that it does not matter. He will not be leaving my soil, after all."

You snort in reply at the challenging lilt on his voice. As you were about to reply, he clicks his tongue before unsheathing his sword and beheading an enemy soldier behind you with one smooth motion. Wind was cut and so was a strand of your hair. Time stills and your lungs contract one last time before it freezes in place. Then, his decapitated head rolls with the clatter of the dagger that was aimed at you. "Impertinent brats! I told them not to let anyone disturb us!"

Kunikuzushi easily falls into one of his temper tantrums that served as just another noise in the background while the ocean sunk its clever hands on you. Water fills your head, the static in the air chasing after the tides that crashed onto your muscles. The tiny sparks of electricity makes you shake, shiver under your robes no matter how hard you tried to still yourself under the ministrations of mental electrocution. You let out a shaky gasp before squeezing your eyes tight. It doesn't help. The wide-open, glossy, deathly eyes that were red on the rim, the splatter of red on your clothes, the trickle of blood against sharp metal, the damp, darkened strands of hair pooling around the crimson sand, the mouth agape in a perpetual silent scream, the lolling and the sickening blue of skin.

That had been you.

That could be you.

You chuckle emptily as you welcome the world once more, staring at everywhere but the ground where you could feel your foot kick something like a ball as the Emperor dragged you by the wrist in a tight grip towards the swaying ship that was moments away from disembarking. He chastises you for freezing up again, calling you weak for retching at the sight of blood. You don't defend yourself because he's right. This was war. You wouldn't survive if you let the phantoms of your past ruin you again and again. It was stupid. Your free hand reaches up your collar out of instinct, splaying itself there just to make sure that everything's intact, and it was only when you feel the small pain of your nails digging into your throat that you remember to breathe because you're alive and living people need to breathe.

Fuck.

"Oi." You blink and suddenly, you're face to face with the glaring visage of Kunikuzushi. Deep purples swirl and spin like a storm ready to unleash hell on earth and knowing him, you don't think it's too far from the truth. "What the hell are you doing? You're going to injure yourself."

"Worried?"

He flicked your forehead with a noncommittal grunt. "Only because you're dragging your feet when my target is getting away."

An inauthentic pout makes its way on your face before you're jogging as best as you could just to keep up with his pace. Despite his smaller stature, he moved with agile ease and in moments where he's forced to sit still and slow down—like waiting for flavor to seep out of tea packets—his leg will jolt up and down, fingers subconsciously tapping an impatient song against his folded arms. He's relatable sometimes when that discomforting feeling settles in your stomach all the same; lead ruins weighing it down until it suddenly goes and your organs are springing up ready to be thrown out in a rush of adrenaline. You think it's because he's always chasing after something that he's always in a rush, time trickling away only spurning the anxiety of dreams flitting away.

His dream was well-pronounced and easy to understand. He wants so he takes, and when he takes, he destroys. He enjoys the ravenous musicality of bloodlust and fear; the split second dread as death presses a kiss on his open palm before he swings wildly and evades any lingering attachment. Just like now. He smiles and laughs with the glee of a child gifted with clothes and jewels on their birthdate. He spins around and dances, uncaring for the excrements staining his doll-like features. He holds his sword in one hand and waves the other freely as if motioning for the music of gore to pick up and rise to a crescendo, and it does as it's told because how do you deny this young Emperor of anything? All too suddenly, there is a sharp stop as you follow his lead, stepping over corpses as you both towered over a mortal man who's earned the Emperor's ire. Dignity be damned, he squeals when Kunikuzushi stabs his sword in between his legs, eerily close to his jewels.

"Poor thing... Are you scared? You just wet your pants..." The lunatic you've called your ally cackles, and you rolled your eyes at his open taunts. It's uncalled for—the pointed fingers and snobbish theatrics but you're not about to risk your life for someone you couldn't care less for. Instead, you stray away from them, eyeing documents that soldiers deemed more important their own lives. You pry one for their clutches, reading through what was still legible and clear from the blood that seeped into the white sheet.

The paper crinkles under your grip as you shot up to glare at the Ambassador. "What is this?"

"The Prince sends his regards," he replies, interrupted by a cough as the Emperor kicks him. Still, he continues—"judgment day approaches. Soon, the parasitic cycle of your rule will be ended."

Kunikuzushi scoffs in response. "What kind of brainless pandering is that?"

"The true fools here are you! The tides have turned! Our victory is nigh! And you, Lady Feiyun—" he gasps, shadows of his crazed mind crossing his face as he spits a broken tooth out—"we have seen right through you. Struggle as you might, no god will hear your prayer now!"

Gods? Prayers? You muffle a snort. The hypocritical laws they inlaid upon you under the guise of religious devotion was enough to make your stomach rumble and churn. It was sickening: the idea that people looked at you, and the way you gasped every breath you take with desperation, exerting every last flicker of your flame just to make it to shore just to amount every last effort to a mere divine intervention. What had the gods done for you save for extending your misery for their own entertainment? What had your prayers offered you in return but a mocking laughter in your head, unheard by all but whispered tauntingly clearly to you in every second of the waking day? They know none of it. None of how razor-sharp blades snapped through the fibers of your sanity each time you faced a mirror nor the nothingness and darkness of guilt in your heart as you settled under your sheets, knowing that less than five meters away was the unmoving body of your brother. You struggled. You prayed. You begged. All that and you still couldn't have what you wanted. And so, all his words were unwarranted because no one, no one, no one knows better the reality and unconditional truth of his words but yourself.

Still, you struggle anyway because if the gods wouldn't care, and neither will your enemies nor your friends, then at least you would. Who would need anyone else but that? There is peace of mind in the guarantee that even if the worlds burn and the only thing left is death, you still wouldn't succumb to the pitiful games of fate. That you'd struggle and burn alive if need be if only to prove them wrong. After all, what was there to lose? What awaits a sinner who's faced the hell of loss and betrayal? And above all that and those that will, who were you to start caring about other people whose death has already been decided by the higher judges? You who have evaded death once; tortured creature bound to earthly shackles once more. Now, you fear death only because it'll deem your soul worthless despite having sold it to whichever devil exists just to reach this fruitless endgame.

They say you see red when you go mad but you disagree. You only become acutely aware of the pitch the Ambassador screamed—an F sharp, the way his heart drummed against his ribs before it squeezed and lost rhythm, the five gasps of air he took before his head lolled to the side, and of course, the twenty-one times metal pierced through flesh, again and again defiling even the body of the deceased. Metal breaches skin first then fat then muscle then very briefly, the bone. It passes through layers upon layers but it takes but a scream, a little force, and a split second before blood is spurting out open wounds. It reaches even your eye and you glowered at the sheer audacity of inanimate objects alike as you finally dislodge the sword from his femur. How dare he? How dare he mock you? How dare he think so little of you? HOW DARE HE—?!

Kunikuzushi stares as the man slumped down the floor, body missing its head. His gaze followed it to where it rolled, to where the curved saber now dug into one of the eye sockets, to the dainty hand that held it and finally, to the expression you held. It was somewhere between a snarl and a sob, eyes wildly darting from the corpse to your hand. Your head begins to pound, and you unclench your grip on the weapon to hold your head but you saw it. Red. Red fills the undertips of your fingernails, drying to become a hideous brown. It coats your palms and drips down to your elbow and its wet and you can feel the exact path it took because it trails down so slowly but dries down its trek so quickly. You smell it then: the tangy iron that fills your tongue, and it's so disgusting. It has a bitter aftertaste, overshadowed by the saltiness of your tears that flowed faster than you can wipe and the bile that encroaches up your gullet.

"Look at me." You can vaguely make out Kunikuzushi turning your body to face him, thumb and index gripping your chin as he lightly pats your cheek. "I said: look at me."

You swallow thickly before following his orders only to see his bewildered look. "What the fuck was that?"

I don't know. You replied. You think. The words formed in your head but your lips felt like they were glued shut and your throat so dry that it felt like speaking will crack it open so instead, you shook your head. Each time you did, you see the blur of the mess you caused. There was too much blood. Even now, it was still pouring out of him. All too suddenly, your knees locked and you stumble into the puddle of your causing. Tears blur your vision but you can make out the pale hand that tried to reach out to you, only to drop after much hesitance.

"...We're withdrawing." He clicks his tongue as he unclasps his robe and wraps it around your trembling frame, tugging the hood down so it hides your wet face. "Look down. I'll take you back to the Tenshukaku."

You see him say something else but your eyes could only follow his hands. You just copied them. One smooth motion. One swing. But when he did it, the corpse didn't bleed as much as the Ambassador did. It didn't pour out of his eyes or his nose or his mouth. A trembling hand reached up once again. Untouched hair, intact neck, beating pulse. You're alive still. Alive and breathing. Alive and not bleeding.

You aren't him.

You wouldn't be him.

You swipe your hands on his coat but the red wouldn't leave.

You hear muffled talking first before you crack your eyes open at the faint brush of a knuckle on your cheek. The hand froze mid-motion and your eyes followed it to meet the complicated chaos inside periwinkle orbs. They light up at the sight of you awake, brows momentarily rising to hide behind his bangs before he wears a soft smile to match the crinkle of his eyes.

"You're awake."

"So I am," you reply.

Ayato sighs as he pulls back. His back hits the cushion of the bedside chair with a muted thump and it is only then that he tilts his chin up to the ceiling, eyes fluttering to a close. "I'm glad."

"You are?"

"Yes."

You huff and tear your gaze back to the plain ceiling.

"Then so am I."

Silence envelops you two, and you wonder why he was there, waiting for you to wake up with the affection of a close companion that you were certain you were not to each other. The last time you met was when he boarded the same ship as you and the rest of the Liyuen forces to rendezvous with the Emperor. You parted ways without so much as a goodbye or a last look as before you knew it, you were being tugged away to a meeting and he, to a welcome home dinner hosted by his sister.

You also wondered how long you were out, your last memory being hidden behind the Emperor's back as he gingerly pushed you into an awaiting carriage. There was the travel and the long bath. It was scalding yet also oddly comforting. You remember pain being sharp against your wet skin but, at the face of all your pretenses and remorse, it was a welcome punishment. You stayed there until black dots littered your sight—until the handmaidens questioned why it was taking you so long to come out and until they pried your limp body from porcelain with a tenseness you could barely view from the steam that obscured the ways of the living. Strangely, now you feel nothing. No regret, no guilt, no fear. You'd feel terrified of what you've become after a few hours deep in your unconscious but you feel nothing—just the emptiness of the realization that it was so easy to kill both body and mind, yourself or somebody else.

"What of His Majesty?" You finally deign to break the fragile peace between you and your guest.

"Marquis Caeli has been spotted around the Sea of Clouds. We suspect that he's planning to escape to Sumeru. His Majesty departed an hour ago with General Sangonomiya to intercept him as per General Xiao's request."

"It'll be impossible to capture him if he manages to step foot on Sumerian soil," you groan as you hid your eyes with an arm. "It's imperative that we catch him. He's our best lead."

The Ambassador does not utter any comment to appease you, and for that you are thankful. You don't think you can handle any of his optimistic claptrap with your current state. You take the opportunity to peek at your surroundings. From the light passing during the sporadic moments wherein the wind caused the curtains to billow and allow entry, you'd say that it was an hour or two before midday. Despite the aches of your muscles, you pushed yourself up, snatching the attention of your strange visitor who immediately stood to help you.

"You should rest."

"I can't sit here and do nothing." You divert your gaze to him before swiftly averting it at the sight of his displeasure. "Matters of importance won't do themselves."

He takes a moment to respond before he sighs. A fair hand reaches up to tussle his hair. "You're doing it again. It's your bad habit."

"What now?"

Ayato drops to the small space beside your thigh. With his back to you, you have no way of deciphering what he meant to tell you aside from the way he tensed and relaxed his jaw. It doesn't help that he doesn't reply either. You could only let your fingers wander, fiddling with the hem of the blanket, pressing creases before thumbing it back down. You wanted to move—to leave—but leaving him all alone in an empty room in the unnerving Tenshukaku also left a sour taste on your mouth. Seemingly taking notice of your dilemma, Ayato lets out a chuckle before twisting his position to look at you better.

"You're quite the puzzle, Lady Feiyun."

You quirk a brow.

"You don't seem to realize how captivating your mysteries are to others. In fact, it's enough to make them do inexplicable things." He hums. He takes out something from his pocket. You see a flash of silver before the leather of his gloves are on your skin, effortlessly lock a thin, silver chain with cerulean gems on your wrist before his thumb slowly runs along the path of your veins.

"Odd words for someone who's been spying on me." You swallow. "What is this for?"

"Ah, I'd apologize but I imagine that means very little to you. For the sake of my pride, I'd keep that to myself. Still, you must know that all of that is only protocol—with your relationship with our monarch. An unexpected twist, by the way. I hadn't had half the foresight to envision you as the vital piece for the eastern alliance, and yet here we are."

He pauses, looking at you briefly before letting his eyes fall back on the jewelry. "I heard of what happened from a member of the Shuumatsuban. I figured that you could use some comfort and well, some protection. I hope that you, my lady, would humor me and wear my gift every so often."

You snort, shoulders slumping as you entertained the idea of looking back to how the events unfolded. Lost in your head, you miss the meaningful stare he gives the bracelet that temporarily flickers to a shade of lavender blue similar to his eyes. "I'm afraid I'm unsure if I should take that as an insult or a compliment."

"You're an unimaginable yet pleasant surprise." He says and as he does, he peers so fervently into your soul that you almost flinched. Plump, pink lips moistened by how he rolled his tongue prior twitched up at your lack of reaction. "I pity you despite knowing that you have not given me any reason to. I wish to comfort you despite knowing that I cannot."

He trails off, letting one of his hands settle on your thigh. Even with his gloves and the blanket, you could feel how warm it was. Goosebumps raise on your skin as you watch him cup the flesh, drawing lazy circles on the outside with his thumb. He stays silent as he slides his hand an inch up, sight flickering up to your eyes to sense any form of discomfort. When he sees none, he leans closer to press a kiss on the corner of your eye. You feel his smile and the tender way he subtly nuzzles into you, taking in your scent before he pushes you to lay back down.

"Lady Feiyun... It is a lonely sight to be strong," he mutters as he tucks a lock of your hair behind your ear. "I was able to laugh my disposition off when I can look away from it but now, there is you: my past, my present, my future."

Your throat feels dry at the sight of his hooded eyes and the deep onyx that has hugged his irises. You could vaguely make out the way his index finger tapped impatiently over your leg as he awaits for a reply. You hesitate but swifter than you can take note of, your lips were moving and the words have escaped.

"How am I to interpret your words, Ambassador?" you whispered breathlessly yet decisively.

His hand moves to take yours, rubbing lines on your knuckles before bringing it up and littering kisses on your skin. Not once did his peer elsewhere but you. His skin too is now stained with red but whether it'll wash away or not escapes you and there is no will or want in you to chase. Instead, you close your eyes and lean into his touch, greedily uncaring and falling back to old crimes.

"It means that I look at you and see my flaws, only that I find that I can adore even the parts of me that I detest. It means that I cannot save you." Ayato bends to press a kiss on your forehead. You feel his well-wishes from it and the mysterious smile he etched over your skin. "I can only tell you how brilliant you are even as you weep—just as a mirror would."

Your head was too busy. There were so many things to process: the victory of the Emperor and General Sangonomiya at the first naval battle between Inazuma and Snezhnaya, the first open clinical trial of the still unnamed control drug of Orobaxi, the note you and Alhaitham deciphered, the cryptic words of Ambassador Sotskova, and of course...

There was him.

Marquis Ajax Caeli was captured at the shores of Guyun Stone Forest after a brief confrontation with Emperor Kunikuzushi, and was subsequently transferred to Byakuyakoku [1].

It was the same Marquis Ajax Caeli who wore a fitted white suit under the big, red, fur-lined cape that just about skimmed the floor when he first introduced himself to you as your fiancé. His hard-won medals clicked together as he tipped his head in a picture-perfect bow, winking with a bright, youthful smile when you gingerly offered your hand to him. Tentatively—with the awkwardness and clumsiness of a boy forced to grow up too soon at the face of responsibilities and war—he pressed a sweet kiss on your knuckle, and keened when you smiled appreciatively in reply.

It was the same Ajax Caeli who later complained of how stiff and heavy his clothes were when he and you shared one drink too many at a secluded corner of the ballroom. He leant closer as if disclosing a whispered secret that would have him crucified for his heresy should he be heard by anyone other than you. He told you that he wanted to look good for you; told you that he wanted to make a good impression for the lady he saw once in passing—an angel he was convinced—that one time you decided to adorn a beaded white gown.

It was the same Ajax who giggled under his breath as he intertwined his hand with yours with the discretion of a lovesick fool before looking left and right, and making an escape from the stuffy ballroom. He laughs wildly as he guided you through a maze of corridors. His honey-colored hair bounced with each step, ruffled too with the wind in a calculated mess that made him look more charming. He taught you that if death looked as good as he did, you wouldn't mind so much to be at the end of his bloodied blade. Ajax, the madman that he was, probably glowed just like this in the battlefield but as much as you were lost right now, he was just as much yours, and you relished in the pride that even if it was just for a moment, he was just yours to possess.

It was the same Jax whose lashes fanned as he dipped his eyes closed, hiding the endless marines of his eyes as his lips slotted in between yours until they were red and swollen. He had pressed you against the chalked pillar of the gazebo you found yourself in, and meticulously dragged you to his rhythm in a fiery dance. He tasted of candied apples and deep burgundy wine. When he finally parted from you, albeit filled with a devotee's great reluctance, he flashes you an easy grin, cheeks flushed red—a picturesque sunset backdrop for the constellations faintly making an appearance on his skin. You've mussed up his hair, wrinkled his clothes and yet, you still couldn't help but love the way you've made him look divine.

The same man you once knew and adored and maybe, maybe cared for more than you would like to admit kept you always at arms' length, hiding behind brick upon brick upon brick and tungsten sheets soldered into walls. There was that distance even when he's managed to reduce you of all people into a sobbing mess. He shifts to delay his response, pouts to soften the intensity of his eyes, lies to make truths palatable. You think he's oh so very lonely under his mask, and despite having the sympathy of a woman born into privilege and luxury—which you are and sometimes, he admits that he feels lesser because of it—you mourn just a little for him whom you had that pleasure of seeing and for him whom you didn't know, not a little bit, not at all.

"Ajax Caeli." You mutter as you snapped away from the memory that surfaced on your mind, instead staring at the man who had his eyes blindfolded, arms bound by metal and body littered with yellow-turning-brown bruises and lacerations that were half-heartedly patched up—not to stop it from hurting, just to keep him alive. His busted lip tugs upward at the sound of your voice no matter how flat it sounded to your ears, and his shoulders rise minutely in that tell-tale sign of his happiness. A little theatric that once endeared you has now become something you cannot trust. Pain surges in your heart, and it wrings the tiny little thing dry, and the only way you could cope was to let out a shaky breath. You will your gloved hands to stay still; to not reach out and cup his face and mutter sweet lies of how you'll soon take away his pain just like the old days because time has passed and what was once your normalcy has become but a fever dream.

He looks different now. Paler, thinner, more pathetic than when you first met him. Defeat does not look good on him, and the small part of you that still feels a little sad for his sake dies a little with him.

"My lady," he croaks, and you couldn't stop yourself from wincing at how throaty and rough it sounded. It didn't seem like he had much to drink ever since he was forced in the dingy room which was already two and a half days ago. "Didn't expect for you to visit me at all."

"I wouldn't have if I had the choice but as always, you have a talent for narrowing my options."

"These days that's the only way I can meet you."

You purse your lips, and though he cannot see it etched on your face, you don't doubt that he senses your displeasure. "You reap what you sow."

A foreign stillness once again spills into your once turbulent but exciting tides. He hesitates, closing and opening his mouth a few times as if testing the taste of his words in his mouth before he slumps defeatedly—perhaps he realized how futile it was and everything from him was vile to you now.

"…I suppose I did."

"Well..." You circle around him, ignoring the way murky water gets displaced with each step of your heels, as you sigh defeatedly. "I'm here. I have no idea why you wanted to speak to me and only me but I'm here. I won't fool you by saying that you could redeem yourself today but I will, at the very least, listen to whatever you have to say."

Yet despite your words, he does not speak. Instead, he tilts his neck, exposing the fragile patch of skin over his neck and the sharpness of his collarbone. He stays silent for a moment and when he breaks it, "my lady, do you grieve?"

You lick at your lips. You let your tongue click against the roof your mouth. You reply, "For many things."

"I suppose even the both of us can stray away from differences and meet somewhere in between," he says in between boyish laughter, "perhaps, old memories, prematurely ended poetries, lifetimes more idyllic where we have the choice to do something other than violence to ourselves."

"And yet here we are. We are still standing opposite each other."

He chuckles once more in the same youthful way that he knew you adored. "That we are."

Ajax pokes his tongue to the side of his cheek, the same way he does when he's feeling contemplative, and you hate yourself for knowing that and worse, for still taking pride in the fact that you do. When he doesn't speak even after a terse minute, you take pity on him and offered the bottle of water you snagged away for yourself, untying his blindfold in the process. He brightens up—well, as much as he could when he's all pale and bothered by the long, dark orange tresses sticking to his forehead—and you find that the ache you've been feeling since you stepped foot in this prison cell being relieved if only for a little. It's unnerving and somehow, you think not feeling the pain was worse than feeling it.

"I have been thinking… Well, that is the only thing I can do now. I think about a lot of things… The time of day, the pristine snow of Snezhnaya, the war… And of course, there is you."

He takes your lack of reply as a sign to continue.

"I was ready to die. When I stumbled back after my sword snapped in half, I thought of using its ragged edges to end my life. As a Snezhnayan soldier, that was the right thing to do. I did not forget that but I…" He squeezes into his frame and his constraints clink in reply. "I thought of never being able to feel your hair brush against my skin again. I thought of how I will long for you so terribly that I might have reinvented its meaning. I thought that this must be it, the horrific side of love because all things have good and bad virtues in them. I hesitated and before I knew it, I was locked up in a cell—deprived even of the knowledge of what the sun is."

You couldn't help the trembling laugh that pool out of your core. "And so? Do you wish for me to apologize for that?"

A few seconds pass before you resume your trek again, eyeing cracked bricks and drippy pipes and rusted metal.

"Of course not. Fate, destiny… I've never had faith in any of those. My tragedy is of my making. I was just… thinking. I must have been more sincere than I thought when I had professed words of love to you." He pauses before scoffing bitterly. "I love you. Of all my sins and crimes, and of all the dishonesty and disservice I have committed, perhaps that alone was the truth."

"Well, it matters little now." You finally reply as you take back your place in the position you once started the conversation on.

"It does to me." Ajax chuckles humorlessly. "Suddenly, things I've never understood made sense. I wondered why I had allowed you to touch me over my pulse so often that now, I've become no different from a mutt waiting for a treat. But then I realized it. I truly love you. I love you so dearly that even if you had chosen to take advantage of my vulnerability, I would've loved you all the same—maybe even more. Not even the gods hold a candle to you who frees me from the unseen shackles that bind me so."

A smile worms its way to your lips. "Is this how you love? Infiltrating my empire, framing my family for your sins, plotting to have us executed? Your love disgusts me, Ajax."

"It's true that Orobaxi was distributed by Snezhnaya but—" at your words, Ajax pursed his lips—"the Tsaritsa would never bring harm to the Feiyuns—not with how useful you are to Her Majesty's plans and besides..." His tensed jaw softens. "I could never let harm befall you."

"Am I supposed to believe that?" You seethe.

He frowns. "What other truth exists?"

"The Tsaritsa is colluding with Khaenri'ah to bring harm to both the Inazuman and Liyuen Empires. The result of your nefarious plot is the drug called Orobaxi that successfully caused a big enough disturbance for your forces to infiltrate our nations. After which, you planned to paint House Feiyun as traitors and have us executed, removing one of the pillars of Liyue and causing doubt to fester among the people. With the weakened Empire, Snezhnaya will formally wage war against Liyue and take over it." You seethe, fingernails digging into his cheeks as you forced him to look you in the eye. "That is your plan, is it not? Is it really impossible for anything else other than lies to come out of your mouth?!"

"What?! No! Where have you learned this from?!" Ajax struggles under his binds, and you instinctively release him when you see his face scrunched up. Deep murky blues come to life as if glimmering at the sight of a reignited flame. Desperation. Agony. Pain. You walk around him if only to hide from those expecting eyes.

"We found a document in the hands of Ambassador Sotskova! It's a compilation of falsified evidence against Feiyun! What more do I—"

"—I cannot deny that Orobaxi was created with Khemia and that Snezhnaya distributed it but—!" His jaw tenses, brows furrowing as if mulling over something before he's straining himself just to catch a glimpse of you, silently pleading for you to believe him—"I was tasked with making use of Feiyun's channels to spy on the Emperor. The secret of the dragons and the serpents… That is what Her Majesty and the sorcerers are after. I do not know why they seek it, only that it has something to do with the war 500 years ago. My lady—!"

"You wish for me to believe in an incomplete lie? What kind of fool do you depict me as?!"

He says your name, and you flinch at how his voice wavered an octave deeper. "Do you not see it? Or have you already blinded yourself of everything but what you chose to believe in? I had my doubts when those sorcerers suddenly appeared out of nowhere but to think that they've also infiltrated our ranks… If you cannot trust me, at least trust my loyalty to my country."

You stare at him for a second before turning away as you nibble on your bottom lip. Was he telling the truth? If he was, that would mean that you completely misread the relationship between Snezhnaya and Khaenri'ah, and that the mastermind behind your execution was someone else entirely. Who was it? Who has the most to gain from this? A muted snap caused you to freeze in your thoughts. Looking down, you noticed that you have broken a nail from your anxious biting. Ignoring the Marquis' words of concern, you instead open your lips.

"Do you know someone called the 'Prince'?"

Ajax furrows his brows. "What 'prince'? Her Majesty does not have an heir at the moment."

You pause before abruptly turning your back on him.

"We'll continue this discussion at another time when I've collected my thoughts. Until then, farewell."

You left without turning back with your head reeling from possibilities despite the Marquis' calls. The weight of the Emperor's declaration hangs on your shoulder and so does the code messily carved on the parchment you've intercepted. Shaking your head, you paused midway down the stairs. It would've been easier if you knew what transpired after you died but with no means to know that, you're stuck with nothing but meaningless guesses.

The overload of information rushing in your head and the lack of control over the situation made you squeeze on yourself before screaming a shrill tone of frustration, eyes darting wildly before settling on a displaced stone and kicking it down the stairs. You could barely hear the sounds of the guards rushing to you in concern from how loudly your heart was beating in your ears. It was hot—and whether it was because of the humidity underground or your undiluted irritation, you are unsure but it was something you realize belatedly as you clumsily threw your coat to the hands of an unassuming guard whom you briskly ignored as you began climbing up once more.

Just what was going on behind the scenes of this conspiracy? The more answers you find, the more confusing the next questions get, and for the first time in the two lives of the flamboyant Lady Feiyun, you wonder if you bit more than you can chew.

Notes:

[ First Act ] — " The Crane That Cried Gold " ends.

Intermission I and II will follow in the following weeks before [ Second Act ] — "That Which Glitters in the Dark is Gold" begins !

[1] - An underwater prison located in the the Watatsumi Islands of the Inazuman territory. It is home to some of the most dangerous criminals alive and none have been seen walking out alive after they have been caught.

Chapter 9: INTERMISSION I — OF COAL AND FLAMES.

Summary:

Set in Lady Feiyun's first life; roughly six years before canon.

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

"Isn't it beautiful, Grandfather?" She asks, her skin pale and blotchy with bright red gashes and bumps filled with watery yet sticky white fluid. Passersby spare her a glance or two—all of which are that of either disgust or animosity. Perhaps she is vile; her eyes bloodshot and empty as her crusty lips remained perpetually arched ,even if the stretched caused her skin to split and bleed. Yet even so, the iron on her parched throat was more blessing than anything else. It was the only thing she have tasted in days and she moans at the reminder, her stomach grumbling in duet.

Rapid footsteps break her out of her reverie and despite the deathly gloss over her eyes, she allows her dull, greasy hair to spill over her knees like a muddy landslide as she crouched protectively over her lap's contents. She doesn't budge—not when the small tin can falls over and spills the handful of coins it contained and not when a foot digs painfully into her side, a glob of split hitting her square in face when she tilted her head to screech in pain.

"How many times do I have to tell you to scram, you freak?!" The man wearing the Millelith's uniform screams, jabbing a finger on her temple again and again for added measure.

The young girl doesn't reply, only staring ahead as she wrapped her arms around the thing tighter.

"What's going on here?" A sweet voice suddenly interrupts the man and the pitiful girl hears him go quiet before sputtering a reply; something along the lines of demeaning her and flat out lying about how she stole something from a stall a few blocks away.

"Is that right?" The lady says again and the brunette hazards a guess that she must be a noblewoman from her elegant speech and the pretty lace layer on the hem of her dress. The thought alone makes her shrink on herself. Experience tells her that it never ends well when she meets a noble's eyes.

"Yes, yes, of course, my lady! This wench has been nothing but trouble for our town! Ever since she walked these parts, all sorts of cursed things have been happening to the villagers!"

She hears a small snort.

"Curses? My, your story turns even more fictitious by the second! Sir, do you truly expect me to believe that such a bony, frail young girl who looks like she hasn't had a proper meal in months could outrun not only the townspeople but the patrol guards?"

"My lady! You do not know what these people could do—!"

Her shadow moves and the guard stalls.

"Do I look like a fool to you? Do you think my age eclipses the weight of my name?"

"N-no, not at all, my lady…"

"Then why do you insist on making me appear to be a moron who cannot tell truth from lie?"

"I… I apologize, my lady—"

"Scram."

The guard tenses as he pauses mid-bow. "Pardon?"

"Scram. I abhor the sight of you before me, you filthy cretin."

She could feel his hesitation as he looks at the noblewoman then to the guards behind her who all held solemn expressions with one hand placed effortlessly—warningly—over the handles of their swords. Immediately, he flinches and he bows one last time before he runs away. He was lucky enough to escape the encounter alive.

Now alone, the woman holds the covered thing closer to her chest as she stared defiantly yet weakly at the young noble lady's hair—not her eyes. Perhaps she took note of it because she laughs behind a gloved palm, her eyes curled in mirth but not the mocking kind she has gotten used to.

She thought she was a strange one.

"What are you holding?"

Her grip tightens. "This…"

"Yes?"

"…Grandfather."

The blank expressions of the guards soured at her words but the noble lady only raises a brow in intrigue. "Your grandfather's… remains, you say?"

Thin, bony fingers carefully caressed the dusty fabric wrapped around loosely on the heavy thing on her lap. "Yes."

"And why is he not buried, yet?"

"Can't afford."

She makes a thoughtful sound. "I cannot say I can relate to that. Still, why not set him aside? You've gotten sick from him already."

At her words, she adamantly shakes her head. "No. Family."

They stay silent for a minute longer before the noble lady sighs in defeat.

"Where are your parents?"

"Dead."

"Other relatives?"

"Gone."

"Can you not speak in full sentences?"

She hesitates. "Only little."

"Did your grandfather teach you only this much before he passed away?"

She nods.

They lapse into silence once again.

She hears the sound of a fan clicking shut before faint mumbles of how her vacation was not turning out as she expected. The poor girl thinks it makes sense that the noble lady came from elsewhere since she looked so unfamiliar. That and she's much prettier than the daughters of the Viscount in charge of the small town.

"What's your name?"

She doesn't reply.

Names are powerful things; her grandfather told her that. When you give someone your name, you give them the power to single you out and give you commands. It is to owe someone and sometimes, to be owned. But more importantly, for people like her, names are the only thing they can say they truly possess. Without strings. Without debt. Hers alone.

"Do you not have one?"

She shakes her head.

"So you're just not giving it to me?"

She nods her head.

"Well, okay then. For the time being, I'm calling you 'Spark.'"

"…Why?"

"Well… Because even when you look as hideous as you are right now, your smile is warm and your eyes hold a very bright spark. I'm curious to know what it is."

The noble lady was strange. She was sure of it now.

The next course of events were hard to process. She was stripped and shoved into a wooden tub where she felt the comfort of scorching hot water on her skin for the first time in her life. The spirited rub of loofa on her body, ridding herself of years' worth of grime hurt but the sight of her reddened but clear skin made her gape in awe. All sorts of fragrant oils were rubbed into her matted hair and she's never felt something as soft and silky as it did when they were done.

She knew that all of the things wasted on her must've costed more than her own life was worth, especially when the tub was emptied and filled thrice from how dirty she was. Water was a scarcity in this part of the town. To think she would one day bathe at all… If this was Death's final gift of dream to ease her passage into the afterlife, she hoped she wouldn't ever wake up.

When she was face to face with the noble lady once more, she was dressed in the spare clothes of one of her maids. It was no better than the lady's own garments that trailed behind her but it was miles better than the scratchy, muddied scraps she wore before. She sits beside her grandfather, hesitantly looking at the plate full of food in front of her. Her stomach yells at her to feast but she holds back until the lady tells her to do so. She would wait. That was the least she could do, she thought as she swallows the pool of drool in her mouth.

The noble lady watched her in amusement for a moment before she nods. "…Good girl. You can eat now."

She didn't need to be told twice; hands reaching forward to grasp the corn cob and shoving it in her face distastefully. The others in the room winced at her lack of manners but the noble lady didn't seem to mind, only swishing her glass back and forth as the spirit it held bubbled.

"Spark," she pauses immediately, a chunk of meat pressed between her teeth and hanging in the air. "I have decided to give your grandfather a proper burial."

The young girl stared at her benefactor wide-eyed before she swallowed deeply. "Why?"

"Well… You and him are an eyesore together, and I've always believed that if there is something that displeases me, I should just remove it altogether. However, you do know that this is not free, right?"

She nods gravely. "What do you want, m-my lady?"

"Your life."

The young girl stares at the noble lady's smirking visage before nodding firmly. "Okay."

And just like that, the scent of incense fills her nose as she stared at the flickering flame on the candle's wick swish back and forth in the soft wind. Her benefactor stood a few feet away, watching her every move under the shade of her parasol. It is an invisible shackle, a reminder that she is no longer her own but what does that matter? Was she not given a new lease in life with this? Anything was better than dying alone in an alleyway amidst cold weather and even colder gazes. And besides…

"Isn't it beautiful, Grandfather?" She asks as she places a bouquet of white lilies beside his tomb. "How some people can shine like gold… Pretty but scary…."

"Are you ready to go?"

She nods, her lips—minty with the taste of a herbal medicine—arched into a small smile. "Rest well, Grandfather. Your Hu Tao is leaving now."

"Hu Tao?" The noble lady asks and she nods once again, more firmly this time.

"Yes. That is my name."

The noble lady listens to her words with a pleased grin before she motions for her to follow her. "Well, Hu Tao, from now on, you are one of mine. I will nurture you until the spark in your eyes turns into a flame that devours this world at my beckoning."

Notes:

[ DIRECTOR'S NOTES ] — Sorry for the delay. I drank too much berry yogurt and proceeded to pass out in exhaustion. Updates will continue to be posted every Fridays unless otherwise announced!

Chapter 10: INTERMISSION II — OF CHASE AND ICE.

Summary:

Set in Lady Feiyun's first life—the original timeline—after the events of the prologue.

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

The young lady she served once had a peculiar habit. She'd raise her soft hands that had never seen a day of work and cup her cheeks tenderly before angling her face so that she was looking at her directly. After a few moments passed, she'd curve her lips into a smile that paints so vividly how pleased she is with herself before resuming whatever she was doing as if nothing has ever transpired.

It has something to do with her obsession with her eyes. She says that they're like diamonds in the rough. When light shines on them from a particular angle, it shatters into a myriad of colors highlighted by the cascade of her long white hair and the languid flutter of her long lashes against her milky skin. Sometimes, she jests that in those moments, it's hard to say who was prettier between the both of them but Shenhe knew that when it comes to beauty, nothing could ever come to par with Her Ladyship.

Her Ladyship—Lady Feiyun's beauty was, of course, indisputable but in her eyes, she was the most beautiful when the gold she wore appeared so faded under the sheen of the sun that only seemed to favor the molten, so very bright glare in her eyes. The way she'd strut to the tune of her rhythm was beautiful: each turn to the click of her heels against marble tiles, drawing eyes and envy as if it's second nature, and when she laughs in delight, despite its arrogant roots, the room stops to delight in her cheer. Lady Feiyun is beautiful because she is controlled power—confident even in submission or, or, ignorance and pain. She is ever graceful, even as her delicate hair was cut short and the red cape darkens into a maroon.

The plaza stills before it delights in the grotesque sight of her corpse. She stares at her form no matter how heavy her stomach felt, churning her guts in a cycle of trying not to heave as she cradled her nephew's head against her collarbone. It is the least she could do. Witness her final hurrah, bear the burden of her anger, mourn for her. Mourn.

Chongyun murmured unintelligible things into her skin, skin flushed and damp as small tremors curled his being. He mourns and so did she as she dragged him forcibly away from the sight, motioning for her fellow maids—who remained loyal to the Feiyun banner, albeit in secret—to follow suit. She couldn't blame them. There was no one left to shield them from the damning gaze of society's hypocrisy. The Duke was called into the Emperor's office and no one believed that he'll come out alive.

There was only her and Chongyun and the other servants who owed the same amount of debt to Feiyun as them.

How many years ago was it?

She grew so used to the prosperity and peace behind the gates of the Feiyun manor that she almost forgot how it felt to have blisters on her feet and bruises on her knees. She was young then—in her teens when girls her age were talking about trends and dresses and marriage prospects. Chongyun was but a babe, babbling incomprehensible words, grinning brightly at the world despite it only sending a disapproving gaze at them. Gullible, sweet, innocent. He knew nothing whereas Shenhe knew some but couldn't wrap her head around it quite yet.

Because family is supposed to have each others' backs, no? Family is safe. It is haven. It is for one another. With family, there was no fear; just growth under tender love and caring, watchful eyes. She could not fault Chongyun's mother's for her sudden death from labor or his sister for marrying herself off to some businessman at the promise of him giving her sickly father some mora. Neither could she fault their father for dying sooner than later, choosing to save the money for Chongyun's future instead.

Is she a bleeding heart behind her blank visage? Maybe.

Chongyun was heavy with adorable, pink chub as a baby. Her thin arms could barely lift him up from the cradle when news of her brother's death reached her ears. The town in the outskirts of the capital was small but she managed even when the curious stares and the muffled whispers made her skin itch.

That was her child out of wedlock, they say.

The father was a noble who lusted over her pale face and beautiful eyes, the other interjects.

She had barely grown into her features, body awkward and not quite full in her breasts and hips and they were already talking about her bearing children? Her skin crawled. She knew little of society but she knew that there was something wrong with their slimy remarks.

What an ice-cold group. She thinks as she scurries to the dark alleyway leading to their street.

Shenhe remembered too clearly how she opened the door to their dilapidated house. They used to be more well-off. Her mother was the daughter of a government official and her father was an exorcist's assistant. She could never understand Liyue's superstitions but it made good money so she never questioned it. Besides, it was all in the past. Her father stopped working after her mother was taken for ransom and never returned.

"Father?" She calls out into the eerily empty place. "We have arrived."

Silence.

She tucks Chongyun under his wad of blankets before laying him on the mat, entering through the kitchen alone where the full basin dripped droplets of water hauntingly. The echo of each sound sends chills down her spine.

"Father?" She tries again, turning on her heel to head to the bedroom only to see a paper on the rumpled sheets.

"I'm sorry." It reads and Shenhe believed that she was only acquainted with anger until that intimate one-sided conversation that made her see red.

She knew some things like how she should run when the front door splintered and cracked with each terrifying knock. She knew she had to hurriedly throw on her run-down shoes and carry Chongyun out through the back door. She knew she had to keep him close to her chest as she tripped on a rock. She knew she had to keep running even when her legs ached from strain and from the wooden splinters stuck on the swollen skin. She knew she had to keep running.

Run.

Run.

Don't look back.

Run.

All debt must eventually be paid including that which her father used to fund his alcoholism. She just didn't know that a daughter and a few months' old grandson were suitable payment methods. She also didn't have much knowledge in geography nor the lucidity after weeks of chase to realize she was in the borders of Feiyun territory.

"Halt! Who goes there!?"

She freezes as the shrill sound of a bow being pulled sliced through the air. The wind blows and her hair disturbs her sight but she knew still that if she looked up, she'll see an entire troop pointing their weapons at her and her sleeping nephew.

"What are you doing, raising your arms against a child?" A monotone voice dryly comments and just like that, the men relaxes their statures—yet ready to kill at a moment's notice despite it all.

She braces her nephew to her chest before she dared to look up at the rider of the pristine white horse whose hooves are thick with mud. Her frown was firm, distaste evident as she stared down at her commandingly.

"Do you know that you are interrupting an equestrian contest, child?"

"Your Grace," one servant interrupts, "shall I chase them away?"

"Do not speak when you are not spoken to," she seethes in reply and the servant could only shrink back with a noticeable tremor. The rider then returns her gaze to her. "Well?"

"N-no, Your Grace."

Your Grace.

Shenhe swallows in instinct. It betrays her true feelings despite the blankness of her gaze.

A duchess.

They're going to die.

"Then, why are you here?"

Why?

"Because I had to run."

"From what?"

"The world."

The older woman stares at her for a long minute before her lips quirked up and she let out an amused cackle. "Then we must be sharing the same boat. Lucky are you who met me instead of any other noble."

Duchess Feiyun had allowed her to be trained within her retinue, keeping fair and not asking for anything beyond what is expected of her. She even paid her father's debts. Well, until she could pay it back with her services as a maid.

She also allowed Chongyun to stay with her and agreed to sponsor him. She didn't know why she did that until she was asked to change the Young Master of the Feiyun Household's nappies. He was roughly the same age as Chongyun—maybe a year older and once again, Shenhe was reminded that, despite her scathing words, the Duchess of Feiyun hides a caring and generous heart beneath her cold exterior.

"Shenhe…" The Duchess fiddled with the corners of her papers—"from now on, you are to serve as my daughter's handmaiden."

She blinked in surprise.

"Humor her. Take care of her as you would me."

She didn't understand why the Duchess and the Duke were so fond of the Young Lady of Feiyun when she was not even their biological child but she tipped her head in obedience anyway.

Well, maybe she could understand. She has Chongyun, after all.

Since then, she had learned to do her hair as she liked, oiling it with luxury fragrances because only something made with care would not damage Her Ladyship's fragile hair.

She pins her hair into a small bun. Shenhe thought she looked a little too pale so she decorated her hair with small chrysanthemums and the color truly brought out her serene features.

She learned what makeup style suits Her Ladyship's features best—staining her lips with a shade that made her look like a painting come alive.

She learned what fabrics Her Ladyship enjoyed feeling against her skin. Silk was a safe favorite, and blue never failed to bring a smile on her face because it was Feiyun's color and Her Ladyship truly loved her family very much—even when she acted like she didn't sometimes.

Shenhe frowns as she eyes the scarf on the young lady's neck. It was skewed. She tsks and unties it and reties and adjusts it some more. After patting it in place, she finally nods in approval.

Her loyalty to Her Ladyship was one born out of her gratitude for the Duchess who saved her from an endless pursuit bound to lead to a tragic end for her and her only family left. However, every time the young lady smiled and cradled her cheek, she feels warmth travel to her heart. A little sister's touch—much like Chongyun who was too soft and pure and naive for the world to trample on.

Shenhe didn't know everything in her life but she knew that the constant squeeze in her heart was one that screamed at her that Feiyun was a family she found, and that the girl she serves was someone she wanted to protect. She was someone who deserved all the happiness in the world after she witnessed how her eyes would grow solemn in the night as she brushed her hair or all the other times she stared forlornly at a commoner family that loved unabashedly and without so-called decorum. Lady Feiyun was someone who chased after affection she deserved but not quite given to her in a package she understands and longs for.

The thought makes her lips tremble, eyes shimmering under the lantern light. A myriad of colors, like Her Ladyship said, reflecting on her eyes in a melancholic dance.

"My Lady…" She whispers as she wrapped the coat around her body tighter. "The fur will keep out the cold as you venture onwards."

Her voice cracks as she feels the ice-cold glow of her skin, climbing from her fingertips to the rest of her body. Even then, Her Ladyship remains still, pale even after layers of makeup and oh-so-cold despite the soft fur on her skin.

She doesn't think she can ever forget how her head departed from the rest of her body even if it is now reattached clumsily underneath the blue silken scarf either.

It took three days and four nights of camping outside the Palace's gates before the Emperor gave the order to release the corpses of the Feiyun's to the surviving servants. It took even more rotten tomatoes and spoiled milk thrown at them before the people began losing interest and allowed them to have a proper funeral.

But it still had to be done at night—when the workers and peasants are asleep and too far gone to spoil the ceremony.

Truthfully, her throat screamed at her and Chongyun's eyes looked so dim and dark from the lack of sleep. The funeral was also nothing special but it was the best their pooled money can muster. There was no one who'd be willing to sponsor them either—not even friends from foreign lands who cannot risk earning the Emperor's ire for 'unsolicited' aid.

But, in the end, as Chongyun and the rest of the surviving servants agreed, it was better to send them off properly with a mediocre funeral than to have them rotting away in some faraway place that the Palace throws its executed at.

Shenhe takes one last look at her master's sleeping visage before she steps away from the ice-cold clutches of the sea that had grieved with her and kissed the ankles of her feet and the white hem of her dress.

She had no land to bury them in so she built small rafts and decorated them with Her Ladyship's favorite flowers and candles with her favorite scent, and dressed them with pelts that were gifts from her time of extravagance.

Then she pushed them into the Sea of Clouds with Chongyun's help: first the Duchess, then the Young Lord, then the Young Master and finally, the Young Lady whom she cannot bear to part with.

She with her nephew by her side watched until the rafts could no longer be seen with the naked eye. And when all was said and done, she was filled with a crippling sense of loss.

What now?

Do they go back to running? Has the world finally caught up with them?

She could not think for long as the bushes came to life, silver glinting in the night far quicker than their legs could take them to safety. You cannot run from debt, a malicious voice in the dark says before everything fades into nothingness.

Warmth finally reaches her ice-cold bones through blood and the escaping heat of Chongyun's body.

Notes:

[ DIRECTOR'S NOTES ] — I haven't finished the minor edits on Act II so there *might* be an Intermission III next week. Sorry! I'll try my best to proceed with the original plan and return to the main story as scheduled.

And for those who are curious about what happened to Hu Tao in this timeline, she was able to escape the Feiyun manor when the Millelith barged inside. She attempted to sneak Lady Feiyun out of captivity but was caught before she could enter the underground prison of the Imperial Palace. She was able to evade capture by climbing up Wuwang Hill but when news of Her Ladyship's execution reached her ears seven days later, Hu Tao ends her life in honor of her master. In her own final words, "Whatever and however will the flame burn if she who stoked it is gone to witness its beautiful ruin?"

Chapter 11: BĀ — HIDDEN TRUTHS, BLATANT LIES.

Summary:

[ Second Act ] — " That Which Glitters in the Dark is Gold "

The crane that flew so beautifully in the sky
Found itself trapped in a shroud of darkness.
Once again, she weeps—
Contrary to her vows.
"Have I ever been free?" She mourns.
Yet when all hope seems lost,
An unexpected guiding light breaks through the night:
A glimmer of gold for her to behold.

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

"My lady, the journey to Mondstadt would not be short. Perhaps you should take this opportunity to rest." Shenhe, who was sat across from you, folded her hands on top of her lap. Her voice reaches you like the clusters of clouds above. It is dazzling with its untold sincerity but distant, too, as her eyes glaze over with the wisp of fatigue.

The corners of your lips pulled upwards at the sight. "I am fine, Shenhe. You look like you need to rest more than myself."

"No, my lady. I shall accompany you while on the road."

At her firm expression, you did not bother to further the debate on the matter. You sink into the heavenly silk of the carriage's seat; a sigh of relief slipping out of your lips as you relished on the light banter and the ease on your shoulders. Albeit a commonplace reward in your previous life, the act of completely and unabashedly being free in all sense of the word has become a luxury to you. There were always the gravitas and the invisible pressure that disabled you from taking the time to breathe. You could try—bury your head in a fictional tale or maybe lay unceremoniously on your sheets for many hours and yet, the voice in your head remains as conspicuous as ever. How can you relax when you could be doing something of greater benefit? How can you be so lax when a conspiracy is unfolding as each irreplaceable second passes by? How can you not care when you are but a pitiful marionette in someone else's gaze?

Just like that, the weight returns.

You bite back a bitter groan to spare your travel companion the needless concern. It has been roughly six months since Ajax Caeli was brought to Byakuyakoku. The Tsaritsa has since then tried to negotiate for him but both Emperors have refused to budge an inch unless she met their demands without compromise. Of course, this was formality. With how unreasonable the demands are, it was clear that they have no intention of releasing him anytime soon. Still, the façade of this 'peace talks' meant that presently, the war between the three empires is standing on a precipice.

The situation's become unnecessarily complicated. Anxiety and tension washes over you like an unbridled tsunami. It crashes, pulls away, only to come crashing back with more fervor. It's exhausting but you have crossed this road with your own two feet and you are determined to see it through until the end.

Out of nowhere, the carriage slows to a halt. Both you and Shenhe exchange looks in silence before she firmly nods, untucking a small dagger from a holster under velvet skirt. You wait with bated breath.

"My lady?" A knock from the coachman's side echoes resoundingly in your compartment. "Residents of Qingce Village have come down to pay you respects."

At his words, you gently lift the curtains. As he said, a good eight people were lined up by the side of the dirt path. They carried all sorts of goods from fresh Jueyun chili to woodworks. Muffling a groan, you nod once more at Shenhe who opens the door for you. The moment you stepped down, whispers erupted from the small crowd, only being silenced when you stood face-to-face with an elderly woman who wore a warm smile.

"I greet Your Ladyship, Lady Feiyun," she bows and the others scurry to follow her form albeit more clumsily. "I am Ruoxin, the village chief. Pardon us for interrupting you like this."

"Please stand, Madam, all of you. There is no need for much courtesy but do tell your intent behind all of this."

As you gesture at them, Ruoxin chuckles hoarsely. "My lady, we would like to thank you for the medicine you have provided for us. My son was a worker in the Harbor and has been struggling for a while because of that godforsaken Orobaxi."

"It is only because of you that members of our household can now go back to behaving normally," another adds as his hands tighten around a basket of apples. "We've prepared gifts for you in gratitude. Please accept them, my lady!"

Hesitantly, you take a small box of plums from Ruoxin's wrinkled hands. It feels warm somehow—as if her sincerity and gratitude has bled into the wrapping, only to linger and reach your hands despite their gloved state.

"…I was not the one who manufactured the medicine. I only sold and distributed them."

"Perhaps so, but it does not make you any less our savior." A woman in her mid-30s softly replied as she cradled her child in her arms. "Truly, my lady. Thank you. Had it not been for your assistance, my son would no longer have his aunt and his father. You are different from the rest of the aristocracy and—"

A sharp cry from the baby interrupts her words and she bows apologetically a few times before hurriedly shushing his sobs as she moved to the side, a few steps from where you and the rest of the villagers stood.

"My lady, please humor us and accept these small tokens. That way, despite being not nearly enough to pay off our debts to you, we can at least rest easy tonight."

Your hands squeezed at the box as you flashed them a small smile. "If so, then I will accept your gifts with much appreciation."

Seemingly pleased with your reply, the crowd began to disperse after they've each passed their gifts to a nearby guard who loaded them into the carriage. Ruoxin was the last to leave, giving you one more thoughtful bow before walking off to the direction of Qingce once again.

"My lady? Is something wrong?" Shenhe asks and you could only laugh bitterly.

"Look at them. They present me with such charity and yet, I could hardly care. Had the medicine not arrived as intended, I wouldn't have batted my eyes at them and yet, they still goad and cheer for me." Your lips purse. "How ignorant."

"My lady, it is true that you've worked hard with the Baron to—"

You interrupt her as soon as she spoke. "Because I had to earn the Emperor's favor. I needed to be in His Majesty's ranks. I needed to be in the know. Not once did I consider their well-being. Does that make me a monster?"

She doesn't respond and your laughter intensifies.

"Shenhe… I think I stopped living since that day."

"My lady…"

"Let's go. We shan't make the Baron wait for us any longer."

As you turn back to the carriage with an empty expression, Shenhe can only follow; her words of worry brewing tumultuously in her mind: the only place it can exist without being swallowed by the deafening loudness of your silence. Something squeezes at her chest painfully. It is like the stinging pain of a hot bowl on her rough palms—the same she cannot pull back from because the gods knew that her salary is not even a quarter of what authentic handmade porcelain costs. It is a painful feeling and as her brows pinch, the pang in her heart intensifies as a thought crosses her mind. Do you feel this pain too?

"Shenhe?" You pause as you turn back to her with one brow quirked.

"My apologies."

She hastily locks the door once more and the carriage departs. The rest of the ride is uneventful but neither you nor Shenhe can fall asleep, only listening to the white noise of wheels grinding against rock and mud.

"Jīang. [1]"

Albedo freezes before shaking his head with a small smile. He lifts his 'general' and places it one step away. "You are too good at this game, my lady."

"And you fair well for someone who has only learned of it today." You shoot back as you moved your 'elephant.'

"You are much too kind with your words, my lady."

Albedo ponders over his next move in silence and you take the spare time to appreciate your surroundings. Although you have financed the entire project, it was the first time you've seen it in person—the first Mage's Tower in nearly five centuries. It is located southeast of Dawn Winery at the heart of Dragonspine itself. Around it, snowstorms danced in perpetuity, hiding it from straying and malignant eyes. The cliff it stands on is ragged with harsh lines and contours which is a sharp contrast to the soft, pearly white sheen of the bricks used in making the tower. It had been purposeful on the Baron's part. He had wanted to cast an illusion of not being so that he could pursue his studies in relative peace, undisturbed by curious and lost adventurers who sought solace from the occasional hails.

The term 'mage' refers to someone who can use magic to alter and influence otherwise naturally occurring phenomena. Once, mages were further classified to witches, wizards, alchemists, sorcerers, sorceresses and so forth. However, as Teyvat embraced technology over magic (seeing as the kingdom that had once specialized in it had been believed to have died off), mages were reduced to a number not so awe-striking and these distinctions became another story lost to time.

They're also not so spectacular in skills nowadays, or at least, not so special enough that they have the ability to own a mage's tower without incurring losses to whoever was funding it.

The Mage's Tower of Dragonspine had been Baron Trifolium's end of the bargain. In exchange with helping you investigate Khaenri'ah and their involvement in your current affairs, you are to fund his research without even thinking of sparing a single coin. It was a fair deal, and one you'd probably make even if the whole concern about Khaenri'ah didn't exist, if only because of your curiosity about magic and all the flowery ideas that came with it.

"I saw someone downstairs." You hum appreciatively as he chose to make a particularly good move. "Have you started accepting apprentices?"

"Two of them." Albedo answers truthfully after a moment's hesitation.

"Two?"

"Yes. We've known each other for a while and I've been helping them with their research from time to time. After they found out that I've built a Tower, they offered to help me this time around."

You chuckle lightly. "That's good. Towers should be used as Towers. From what I've read, even the Mage's Towers in Khaenri'ah were used to further learning and techniques of large groups of mages at a time. That's why they're so expensive to maintain."

"That is correct. The tower master guides the other mages where there is a necessity and is tasked with helping them grow their magic's potential."

"A tower master…" You trail off before averting your gaze back at game board. "History records say that there has never been a tower master who was not an archmage… Shall I refer to you as that from now on?"

Albedo shakes his head, dissatisfaction apparent on his scrunched features. "Please do not."

"Why not? The title of an archmage holds the same weight as that of a marquis in noble courts."

"I have been meaning to tell you this, my lady, but I did not use my legal name upon registering the Tower in Mondstadt's records. To the rest of the world. Tower Master Calx is a different man from Baron Albedo Trifolium." Albedo tips his head in a polite bow. "Please help me maintain these two identities."

"Oh? Two identities? And why have you gone through all the trouble to do so?"

Albedo doesn't reply for a while, instead offering his hand for you to shake as he realized that he was now in a stalemate, signaling his loss. You take his hand with a small smile. "I have a younger sister. She's not even in her adolescence yet. I'd rather she be kept away from… this."

The ochre-colored tea reflects the complicated expression on your face. There is the practiced smile that has been practically etched on your face since your younger years and yet, there, too, are the complicated emotions flashing through your eyes. Because, of course, how can anyone sever the ties and obligation between family—blood or water—that easily? It is often times a leverage in front of adversity but other times, a truly, heinously suffocating thing. Perhaps it was because of this kinship you felt for him and his innocent desires that you choose to ignore the comment entirely. After all, what kind of good-natured brother would not feel the slightest bit antsy as he listened to you? It could be a mere utterance of his sibling's name yet he would see it as a hidden threat. And frankly, was he wrong to do so? You remember the young face of Kamisato Ayaka whose cheeks are still rosy and soft with chub detailing her obvious inexperience in this ill-drawn fate. You recall the stillness in your heart as you designated a specific plot of land for her use had things with the Ambassador continued to go awry. Even now, there is no regret or guilt. There was only nothingness in the realization that you would do the same or worse if given the choice.

Right. Because you stopped being human the moment that guillotine fell. Because mortals have only ever had enough capacity to live through the suffering and betrayals brought by accursed love once.

Strands of flaxen hair slipped out of his braids, creating a makeshift curtain around his face. Seemingly ticklish, Albedo's lips form a small pout as he reaches up to tuck them behind his ear. It's flushed red from the chill despite the crackle of the fire painting his visage with soft tangerine shadows. He's pretty like this—like winter's child being kissed by spring; a product of every soft chirp of birds singing away their lethargy and every snowflake disappearing after embracing fine lashes for a few tender seconds. Albeit he busies himself with tidying his new game board; albeit he has been careful to not walk on the tightrope you have urged him on since you've met, the Baron shines sincerely. It's less the raging fury and hellscape of your burn and more the comforting shade of a candlelight, illuminating sheets of worn and yellowed books. He exists so brightly, you knew that from the start, and yet, the tragedy of glowing so well was that you burn into embers.

In a life no longer harkened or spoken of elsewhere but the recesses of your mind, Baron Albedo Trifolium stared at your pitiful form, crouched over rough wood panels as yellow and purple bruises littered your arms from being manhandled. A mere soldier's coat spares your intimates but even that had soaked up blood and mud at its hem. Despite all that, the Baron sat beside the Tianquan with an unreadable expression. Did he pity you? Did he find it too much? In the end, before the blade could fall, he leaves. Half-delirious, you think you could see guards stand in his way. Their whispers are tense but quiet, even as the guards close in on him and force him discretely to walk into a dark alleyway.

Silent executions.

False accidents.

Death.

In an alternate reality where you were an ignorant woman blinded by the molten gold of luxury and affection, it was the Tianquan who sought and used the Baron to spell out the answers behind the mystery of Orobaxi, a drug magically influenced by a specific arts used by Khaenri'ahn mages. Right, because what magic can trace black magic if not black magic as well? Alas, the Tianquan was not a woman of mercy and neither is the Emperor. Whether it helped or not, black magic was black magic and it had to be eradicated. Similarly, whether his allegiances lied with Mondstadt or Khaenri'ah, Albedo had been cursed by his blood since the moment his mother conceived him in her womb.

Your 'want' back then, was to possess the Baron—the key to your death and now, the key to your survival. Had it not been for Yun Jin's instigation, perhaps your paths would never have crossed and you would be once again chanting hallowed be's as you pray that it is he who dies first, not you.

"Lady Feiyun?" Your eyes snap to him and his brows were furrowed in concern. "You were in a daze until a moment ago. Is everything well?"

"…Yes. Everything is as it is supposed to be. That aside, a few villagers wanted to extend their gratitude to you for the medicine you made for the victims of Orobaxi. I'll have Shenhe give it to your apprentices to be put away."

As if not expecting your comment, Albedo blinks at you owlishly before he's tipping his head down. You don't know what kind of expression he was making but like you, his tense shoulders did not seem to tell a story of pleasure. "…I see. Thank you for bringing them with you."

"Of course, anything for you." You clear your throat. Seemingly noticing your distaste for the topic, Albedo inches forward in his seat as he lays his palms by his knees. "Since that is settled, my lady, shall we talk business?"

You wave at him to continue.

"I attempted to cast a spell to track the caster from the confiscated drugs you gave me for examination. It still had some frail remnants of their mana." His face sours. "Alas, by the time the mercenaries you lent me and I arrived, they have vacated the premises and covered their tracks with magic."

You hum in thought. "What of the scene? Were there no clues worthy of attention?"

"None. Well, aside from how it's located in an abandoned warehouse near Sal Terrae."

"Sal Terrae?" You frown, and as if sharing your unspoken thoughts, he nods at you.

"It's close to the Harbor. My lady… Had they flee in haste after sensing my mana approaching, it is possible that they have infiltrated Liyue Harbor to make use of the pier."

"To go where? Inazuma knows of their existence and deems them their enemies. Sumeru had retained its neutrality but if they wanted to escape there, it would've been more efficient to cross the mines instead of the seas. Besides, if their goal was to flee, all they had to do was circle around your men and march to Mondstadt using Stone Gate," you murmur as you begin biting at your nails.

The Baron mulls over your words in silence. After a while, his brows pinch as he tilts his head to get a better view of you. There is worry in his eyes but he seems more interested in your reactions. "Then, do you believe that Khaenri'ahn spies been using Sal Terrae as a place to reconvene?"

Khaenri'ah's secret invasion in Liyue had been a long-standing assumption of yours and Emperor Morax. After all, if they had been able to do so in Inazuma, what was stopping them from doing the same to the Liyuen Empire? However, the results of the internal investigation lacked any indication that there were any anomalies within the court. Of course, it was always possible that they have infiltrated by parading around as commoners but from the very beginning of time, Liyue has been a busy hub of commerce and trade. It frequently welcomes people from all walks of life. Thus, it is simply impossible to filter through everyone when almost everyone can be marked as suspicious if only gauging by their greed.

"How do you plan to respond, my lady?"

You meet his clear gaze. It flickers from a bright cerulean blue to a soft tangerine sunset at the fickle afterimage of the candlelit flame. His eyes glimmer from your angle, like he was some god in the heavens weeping tears for a pitiful mortal whose had the loom of fate frowning at them whilst it wove a glorious but incredibly tragic pattern. You hate it. You hate how of all people, it was the Baron who chose to distance himself from everyone that looked at you most sincerely and honestly. You hate how even now, he still looks at you so forlornly as if he remembers and regrets all that have come to pass. You hate how it makes you feel seen—weak. You hate it. You hate him, if only out of pettiness.

"I do not know," you finally reply after a moment of despondency. "I will figure it out later."

Albedo nods slowly as his pale hands wrapped around his teacup. He lets the lingering warmth of the porcelain seep into his skin. He ponders. He absentmindedly chews on his lips before he's nodding again—voice so soft that it was almost lost to the howling winds outside. "I see. Please let me know if you need my assistance. I am on your side, my lady."

As words of gratitude slip out your lips, your nails slide up to clench at the lines on your hands. The subtle pain reminds you that, sometimes, you still are very human. Your blood is still red and it pools out the crevices of your pumping heart. You bleed and at the face of sympathy and kindness, you find that you cannot deny him at all. The hatred you've carried since before suddenly seems so unjustified and unrighteous. Was it sympathy, knowing that you both have been cast aside after being used? Was it the solemn slope of his face, making it hard to look at him with indifference?

"I know." You smile.

In the end, you don't and you can only hate how you cannot hate him too.

You step into the library of the Feiyun manor fully expecting no one to be there only to halt as you see a figure from the distance. His legs were crossed as he sat in one of the more comfortable couches in the area with one hand propping up a foreign book. With the cover of silence and the ticking arms of the grandfather clock showing how late into the night it had become, you allow yourself the small opportunity to observe him.

Alhaitham was once one of the students House Feiyun fostered while participating in an exchange program back in his youth. Ever since, he had the most brilliant of eyes, resembling the way golden rays from the afternoon sun struck the prism of an ornament hung near your window. You vaguely remember your first meeting—the sharp wit hidden behind his demeanor, the invisible lacerations on your skin as he looked up and down at you defiantly as you tried to have him running off in some unimportant errand. He was not to be your attendant, he said, he was to be a student and nothing more. Even at the face of statues from long distant reigns and seemingly unquestionable facts, Alhaitham never seemed to cower. He only stands, waits, ponders at his own pace before carrying on in the opposite direction of the orthodox. That part of him has not changed, and while his strange bluntness and rational honesty makes it hard to fully grasp his next move before he makes it, you respect, in some way, the dichotomy he presents himself in your eyes.

Now, he thumbs at a page of his book, eyes lowered to catch the final words of a paragraph before flipping. You see him heave a small sigh before his eyes fluttered to a close. At that, you approach, settling beside him as he closes the book with a small force. It was a habit of his: to end reading with a breath as if releasing some mental tension brought upon the non-fictitious string of representations of this and that.

"You came back, late," he mutters as his thumb and index massage at the bridge of his nose.

"Business took longer than expected. What's keeping you up? It's rare for you to slip out of your routine."

"There was something I wanted to check."

Your eyes fall back to the closed cover of the book— to the calligraphy in gold ink. "I would've never thought that you would be interested in psychology."

He grunts in reply and doesn't add any more of his thoughts.

"Well, you mustn't dally with resting any further. We are to be busy tomorrow."

As you attempt to stand up and leave him be, Alhaitham presses his palm firmly over your thigh. Your head instinctively twist to him and you found that he was staring at you all this time. It knocks the breath out of your lungs, heart beginning to race in diluted fright as those clinical, seemingly omniscient eyes zeroed in on you. You've never experienced being strapped into a cold, metal table, ready to be pried open by lunatics in search of answers but you imagine that it'd feel like this.

Terrifying. Maddening. Weakening.

"Alhaitham?" You attempt to prod at him for his sudden interruption but the effect was greatly dampened by the breathy way it came out of your lips.

"Have you been sleeping at all?" Was all he said in a non-response.

"Of course," you lie.

"Any nightmares?" He asks again.

"Nothing worth mentioning," you lie again.

The fingers over your thigh drum in thought and you feel your body heating up. You think he notices your discomfort because he once again meets your eyes, silently warning you to sit still as opposed to following the instinctive desire to flee flushing through the nerves of your body.

"Your behavior has been odd. You are too anxious—too emotional that you end up making irrational and awfully reckless decisions. It is hindering our plans."

You snarl at him in response. "I am fine. So long as I can fulfill my role, everything else is none of your business."

"Isolating and being defensive—" he hums in affirmation before he pulls his hand back. You take it as an opportunity to withdraw a few inches away from him. "It seems that my conjecture is correct."

"What conjecture?" You eye him warily.

He doesn't humor you with the details, instead fixing his posture so that he could catch a better look of your reactions. You tense in response.

"The assassination attempt—" You narrow your eyes in warning yet he continues anyway—"what do you surmised happen?"

"What happened? A servant tried to kill Xingqiu and I with poison tampered with black magic," you reply as you subconsciously avert your eyes.

"And?"

You scoff. "What do you mean?"

"Did you not wonder why? Or where the poison came from?" Alhaitham's voice dips into a low drawl. "Or have you already decided that it was your fault long before any sliver of truth can come to light? Is that why you refuse to investigate this further?"

"Alhaitham—!"

"Unlike you—" he starts again but this time with gritted teeth—"I am unsatisfied with ignorance. I will not be blinded by a contrite heart that would mask injustice just so that it can castigate itself."

"Scribe!" Your raised voice makes the air still in the chilly library. The light of the moonlight makes the room appear dimmer and you, ghastly. Seeing the imperceptible way his chest rose up and down quicker than normal, you blink hesitantly before lowering your voice once again.

"You overstep your boundaries, Alhaitham."

He clenches his fists before loosening them and slowly whispering your childhood nickname, one that, with the exception to your family, is secret only to you and him. "He is as much of a little brother to you as he is to me. That is why I cannot allow you to take the blame for this when rationality dictates that none of it is yours to bear."

You open your mouth to counter him but he beats you to it. "It is true that you have many enemies especially now that you have involved yourself too intimately in a war. However, it is also possible that it has always been Xingqiu they were after, not you."

"You know him, Haithami," you reply almost desperately. Had you been thinking clearly, you'd recognize how easily you fell back into childhood habits, trying to convince the man of something by attempting to endear him. "The people of Liyue adores him for his unshakable morality."

"Justice gains favor and derision alike, you know this." He takes your shaking hands into his, trying to still them as you recall the way Xingqiu looked as he was splayed on the carpet.

"That can't be… Setting aside that Xingqiu wouldn't have a reason to garner enemies, what else can explain the involvement of Khaenri'ahn sorcery? I am no fool to believe that I am not at fault for this. There is no need to placate me."

The scribe sighs before taking an envelope from in between the pages of the book he was reading. He offers it to you and albeit confused at his sudden lack of argument, you trace over the wax seal before prying it open.

"There is a tabloid in Liyue that only ever publishes stories about the hidden lives of nobility." He begins as he folds his arms. "It was a shot in the dark but... Had I been a journalist in their ranks, I would try to spy on members of what is arguably the most influential ducal house in the Empire."

"People have been spying on us? How have I not heard of this?" You furrow your brows.

"It is your older brother's doing. While investigating this lead, I found out that he has been paying off tabloids to ensure that neither you nor Xingqiu would make it on the headlines."

You couldn't help but snort. "I suppose your lead ran dry, then."

Alhaitham pauses, watching you slowly take out a piece of film from the envelope he gave you. "There is a murmur in the streets of the harbor ever since its becoming. 'Liyue houses two empires,' they say, and 'their affairs run parallel to each other.'"

The photograph was blurry but you could make out that distinct blue color from anywhere. Under the veil of dark shadows and murky waters, Xingqiu was talking to a hooded stranger, his face colder and stricter than you've ever seen before. The mature expression has made him appear older and rougher—like a man who's been chiseled down because of the years of torment he has seen. Subconsciously, you glance at a nearby window.

A shiver runs down your spine at a thought.

"Dunyu Ruins, Lingju Pass, Qingxu Pool." Alhaitham calmly breaks you out of your manic cascade. "Word on the street is that every so often, an underground society would meet and conduct all sorts of illegal trade in these locations alternately. It just so happens that contracts made in the daylight hold no weight under the shade of the night." He taps at the image still in your hands. "And contracts made in the moonlight do not exist under the light of the day."

Alhaitham doesn't continue but you hear him clearly anyway.

Notes:

[1] - The Baron and Lady Feiyun are playing Xiangqi, otherwise known as Chinese chess and elephant chess.

[ Additional Trivia ] — Teyvat's citizens in the ASOM universe, regardless of social rank, are fluent in a 'global language and writing system.' 500 years ago (after the Great War), a few linguists from Mondstadt were tasked with creating a universal language in order to unite the remaining 7 nations. However, the ancient local languages and writing systems are still actively used within national territories when communicating with fellow countrymen. Thus, albeit never explicitly mentioned in the story, the characters generally converse in the global language unless they share the same nationality with the exception of Alhaitham who almost always converses with others in their mother tongue as an expert linguist from the Haravatat Darshan (e.g. Lady Feiyun uses Liyuen (Chinese-inspired) language when speaking to her family, her attendants, and the Emperor but uses the global language when speaking to Baron Trifolium, Ambassador Kamisato, etc.)

Additionally, since the narrative is written with Lady Feiyun as the point of reference, Chinese variants of some terms are used. The most notable example would be 'Orobaxi.' Although the base material uses the spelling 'Orobashi' as per its Japanese roots, the story makes use of the Chinese spelling as Lady Feiyun also uses the localized pronunciation of the drug's name in her day-to-day life.

Chapter 12: JIŬ — CRUEL FRIENDS, KIND FOES.

Chapter Text

Very little are the things that could leave you at a loss for words. After all, there is always a thought: a snide remark, an elaborate scheme, a well-meant jest located at the forefront of your mind. However, as you stand under the aged arch of Lingju Pass' entrance, that distinct speechlessness carried forth by a thing most similar to childlike wonder could only freeze you in place. A place so devoid of life even during the peak hours of the day now revered and gladdened at the prospect of business. People around you hustled like moth to the flames of the bright lanterns strung up with thin ropes across tent to tent. The luminescence of it all casts an orange-red filter over everything your eyes could lay on. Warm tones characterized by excitement, passion, danger. You feel the energy electrifying your veins. The static in the air makes the ends of your hair stand. The chatter of people—urging, calling, plotting. The push and shove of incoming guests—hurried, crazed, desperate. Your vision spins as you feel hands on your arms, tugging at it. Cheap perfume and sweat and burnt incense assaults your senses as you pass by merchants who donned loose clothing and sleazy smiles. Grease warms your skin from when their touch left it there and you've never felt more disgusted in your entire life.

You push past an incoming wave of crowd as you dug the soles of your shoes into the earth. Stubbornly, you ignored the laughter booming in your ear and slapped the wandering hand that reached too closely into your pocket. Amidst the people with their rough, synthetic fabric scratching at your skin, you suddenly realized how frightening it was to be lost and to be without an identity in a world that dances to a tempo you've never heard of before. Here, the distinct scent of oil on a rusting pan—liquid dark from how many times it's been used—and the dull pain of elbows hitting you as someone else inched away from harlots with sweet, enticing smiles of pink-colored lips despite the lavender bruises peeking out of their garbs was the norm. To struggle; to prostrate yourself in a man eats man world is the norm.

You take a sharp breath before finally detangling yourself from the messy weave of the busy main street, narrowly avoiding a puddle of purge left behind by some poor drunkard. Here, you could barely make out the noise of your clacking heels. Here, you have no power nor presence nor ally. Here, you are, for the first time in a while, truly and utterly alone. You try to calm the shakiness of your hands behind your back as you slink further into the winding stairs of a building. You don't know what it's for but you do know that it's quiet and far enough for you to recompose yourself as best as you could; maybe pat away the dampness on your forehead, tuck away the strands of hair attributing to your disheveled appearance. A bitter laugh escapes you as tears threatened to spill out the lines of your eyes.

The weight of reality is seldom realized until you are all alone. Only then do you realize how powerless you are compared to the rest of the world and the ever-moving hands of time and destiny. Achievements, while glamorous and luxurious to the ear, are easily something so dependent on others. Routine, while simplistic and wonted, is something taken for granted. To the eyes of every other machination of the gods, you are a mere ant—proud over a small stash and nescient of the shade or size of the shadow you cast. You are no different from a little girl hiding behind her parents' legs, peeking at strangers as life passed you by. A mere child. Naïve. Weak. Ignorant.

Everything you are feels like five hours away because five hours ago, it was not Lingju Pass' long but narrow stretch bearing witness to your anxieties. It was the drawing room of your estate and its wooden floorboards and patterned carpet that muffled the rhythmic back and forth of your pacing. Your teeth clamped against the fragile cuticles of your nails and your neck feels stiff from how tight you've been holding yourself ever since the night before. The deep shadows underneath your eyes were a testament enough of how long you spent twisting and tangling your legs around the sheets as your mind betrayed your wits. It flashed the same image again and again like a memory newly remembered from freshly developed white sheets stained ink-black. Try as she could, even Shenhe could not hide the unhealthy sheen of your skin when you immediately asked your family for their presence at the soonest possible time.

"It's unlike you to fidget like so, Sister," your older brother—the first to arrive—told you lightheartedly as he poured himself a cup of tea. Although you weren't looking, you could feel his gaze lingering on your back like a hawk eyeing something for the faintest movement he could attempt to decipher. "…Has something happened?"

"No. Not quite. It's—" you pause mid-sentence as you finally turned to face him. He's wearing an easy-going smile as he pushed another cup to you. You spy your reflection on dark umber pool and you instinctively heave a sigh, sitting across him in defeat as you took his silent invitation.

"Whatever it is, I am certain that we would be able to come up with a probable solution by the end of our small discussion. That is why, little sister, do not be so tense. There is no need to burden yourself so much when you are still well into your youth."

You make a sound of acknowledgment before taking a sip of your tea. Just as you were about to reply, the door slides open once more, lips pressed flatly as she moved her gaze from you to your brother.

"Mother," he greets with a fond smile before scooting over and letting your mother sit.

However, instead of acknowledging him, she turns her gaze to you. A shiver crawls down your spine as you found yourself at the receiving end of her sharp gaze. "It is impolite to host a gathering on such a short notice even if we are family."

"Forgive me, Mother. There is something of great importance that I wish to relay to everyone," you reply, voice trailing off as you tip your head down. It was your mother, after all.

Duchess Feiyun was notorious for her apathetic façade but that is not to say that she was a heartless woman. You could vaguely make out memories of her soft palms on your cheeks as she brushed tear streaks away. The warmth of her skin contrasts the cold expression she wore and you remember how your eyes fluttered to a close as she looked at you with an icy gaze. Be strong, she says. The world does not take too kindly on weaknesses. You will be taken advantage of lest you do unto them first. It's tough to be a woman in high society, she firmly tells you with a grim expression. They'll parade your carcass with mocking smiles and high-pitched squawks. Better overcome them as early as now.

Suffice to say, you're only half as much of the person you were because of her.

Before she was the Duchess, she was once the daughter of a small viscount family near the outskirts of Liyue. Her marriage with your father was once the subject of controversy for many a weeks. She's too 'nobody' for someone of his noble prestige—too 'average,' 'too common,' 'too basic.' There were many more hateful words used to describe her. Albeit not being born nor granted a spot on your family tree yet, you don't think you could forget the way your heart plummeted as you dug yourself a space beside your older brother one cold winter night. Unlike you, he had memories of your mother's earliest days in Feiyun—when she was still acclimating to the bestiality hidden under the masks of the higher-ranked nobles.

Your mother—so cold and unshakeable now, was once an ordinary, naïve little girl. Her gorgeous ocean-colored tresses once pooled down her back as her eyes welled up with tears, fragile frame shaking as her white nightgown grew damp from her cascade of emotions. Friendship was a luxury and one not so easily bought by the Feiyuns unlike when she was still on the tightrope of being a noblewoman and a commoner back in her small territory. She had been isolated, betrayed, laughed at by the wives and daughters of the same people who had firmly clasped and admired the Duke for his supposed 'bravery' for denying conventions. Your brother said that he watched as every night, your mother cried less and less until one night, she stopped doing so altogether. He said that one day, she wore her signature white, silk gloves and never again removed it when in public eye. That day, your mother became a Feiyun in its truest possible way. That day, your mother chose to devour.

And devour she did. You've yet to meet someone who wouldn't shiver in their boots at your mother's disapproving gaze. Not even yourself. Worse, she never speaks up. She only looks at you, trails her gaze up and down once before looking away but you know. That in itself is a troublesome ordeal because not one is spared from such treatment; not even you nor your other siblings.

Strictly speaking, your mother was your greatest critic. In fact, you'd argue that she was harsher to you than anyone else. In your past life, it was your mother who denounced your expenditures first and without fail. She was the one who threatened you with your disownment if you had not 'swiftly picked your act together.' However, on your last moments, you recall hearing her screaming in a hoarse voice: "not them! Not my daughter! Do what you have to with me but do not lay a finger on a single strand of her hair or so help me because I vow to the gods that I would end you myself!" It was such a mess, you could laugh. You've never heard her scream once in your entire life and yet…

With that said, it's hard to say what your relationship is like when you crossed the line of hating her and loving her at the same time all too often. She means well, you know that, but sometimes, instead of harsh comments and pointed fingers, all you want is some solace and embrace. You can never expect that from her, though. But she's family, and she does mean well and—the cycle of being guilted into letting go of your qualms, by your own treacherous self of all people, continues on and on. You love your mother. You adore her and aspire to be her but you'd hate to be her all the same. It's difficult but you do understand that she did what she had to do to survive. It's just that some decisions you just could not bring to understand. Was her innocent love worth the grueling separation from her gullible but sincere self? No matter what, you can't understand her. (That is a lie. You do. More intimately than you would have wanted to.)

"You are a Feiyun. You best remember that," she says sharply before tearing her gaze away from you. Whether it be because of your tense shoulders or her tightly-pressed lips, something clues our brother in with the brewing tension between you two and he swiftly intercedes with a diplomatic grin.

"Appearances sure are deceiving. The calmest, most cool-headed members of our family are, in fact, the most hotheaded ones." You roll your eyes at his quip. "Still, let's not argue so late into the evening. Had Xingqiu been here, he would've been so very disappointed in you two."

You freeze at his words and you notice that your mother had gripped her teacup tighter.

"I meant no offense with my words. Had it been mistaken for something with ill-intent, that is not of my concern," your mother replies as she not so discretely eyes you from the side—a challenge almost.

You chose to keep your tongue and the atmosphere plummets tensely.

In hindsight, things between you two had been strained ever since… the whole situation with Xingqiu happened. Yes, you may have been more irritable and yes, she may have been more distant as of late. Try as your father and your brother might, the last time you've sat down to actually interact beyond the cursory glances and nods in the hallways was probably months ago. You think you're too similar and too different to get along well—sometimes one over the other and never quite in the sweet spot. Your mind wanders off in thought and your misery was only cut short by your father's timely entrance.

As he walks to the cushioned seat at the head of the table, the rest of you stand to greet him quietly. He nods before signaling you to sit back down. You follow.

"Now then, we're complete, Sister. Pray tell, what is so urgent that you've asked to meet with us?"

You look at your brother, then your mother and finally your father before busying yourself with chewing at your lip. Not even a second later, you hear your name being called with the scalding lilt of her warning tone. There was an urge to snap back at her but you swallow it to instead present a familiar looking set of pictures to your family. You repeat Alhaitham's words from before with some added conjectures on your part from when you thought about it one sleepless night before and for a moment, all was silent in the Feiyun household.

"…I apologize, Father. I have been negligent with those publishers." Your brother tips his head down so you couldn't make out his expression but you know that it was no good when you saw how tightly he held his fists on his knees. Beside him, your mother parts her rouged lips before ultimately deciding against speaking out. Instead, she brought a teacup to her lips, effectively hiding the incontrollable twitching on the corners of her mouth.

"None of this is your fault," you interject before unfolding your arms. "And if you insist that you are, then I and everyone else in this house are equally liable."

He moves to argue but the Duke raises his hand, making him halt immediately. "Your sister is right. None of us known what could've happened nor could we have ever known about what goes on inside a person's mind, even if they were family."

His words makes the same thunderous impact of a hammer striking metal in a silent night. You feel stretched thin, colder than needed to be, cracking. There was power in the unsaid; perhaps a chance at disillusionment if you tried enough to avoid enunciating the words that speak facts. There is relief without the bitter press of truth against your tongue but in saying that, what is the truth? Across you, your mother clears her throat before tapping open her floral-patterned fan. If her words from childhood rang any close to any truth, to be graceful even in pain and melancholy is to be a daughter of Feiyun.

"What does this mean?" She asks with finality as if she's twisted and reformed the question with an uncountable number of times in her head. "What is Xingqiu doing in a place like that?"

No one replies.

Or perhaps, everyone fears the response they'd form if they thought about it hard enough. It was difficult, after all, to distrust more than 15 years' worth of memories and intricate perceptions. What can you believe if you failed to discern what is true to someone who's been living and lounging one room over for almost the entirety of your life? You fear many things but among all of them, having your rock crumble, your ground tremble, your faith and love give in… The thought alone makes your heart squeeze impossibly tight, making you squirm uncomfortably in your seat. Would he do it? Would he betray you? Would he kill your mother, your brother, you?

Your vision darkens as your questions began to run wild once more, spinning dizzying circles in your mind. You hate it. You hate how quickly doubt eats away your devotion to your brother; a raging wildfire in a forest in hell. You hate how it's impossible to blindly trust his innocent smile and his trembling hands now. You hate how, in your head, it's suddenly not so difficult to imagine that the one who plotted to have Feiyun fall for a grand set of schemes is your own little brother. It is a wild hypothesis, but one that suddenly has some merit as opposed to being dismissed on the grounds of loyalty. Because yes, while you don't know what is what and which is which right now, you could at least tell that Xingqiu has, is, and will forever be a loyal person to whatever cause he's decided to fight for, even if it was a nefarious one. If, for some reason, he felt the need to align himself with Khaenri'ahn survivors, then he'd be willing to die for them if only for that horrible thing called the greater good. Of course, it doesn't make sense just like how it doesn't make sense for Xingqiu to be wandering out and about past his curfew in the underground black market, looking around with as much familiarity as someone who's had it be his favorite for how many years now.

"Father," you call out and all eyes draw to you. "We should investigate this matter as soon as possible. If we find out what happened the day this photograph was taken, we may be able to find some lead against the people who did this to Xingqiu."

Your father's face crumples at your words but he does not reply. Aghast by his nonreply, you turn to your brother who only shook his head slowly. "That would be difficult, Sister. You know about the Empire's stance—"

"—Brother!" You raise your voice as you instinctively stood up. "Why must we worry about others when one of our own has been targeted?!"

"It is not that simple," your father calmly cuts in but your fury only continues to simmer.

"You all heard the doctors! We don't even know if he'll ever wake up again. O-or If he'll ever be the same if he does! Must we wait until he's dead before you start caring?!"

Your mother screeches out your name, her pale face accentuating the wrinkles of her eyes. "How dare you insinuate that we don't care about your brother?!"

"Do you?" You bark back. "He's suffering as we speak and you refuse to learn of the truth behind this madness nor to grapple at the faintest opportunity of giving him the justice he deserves. Mother, if you truly cared for your son, you would cast into hell everything for what they did to him!"

"That's enough. Sit down."

Your brother stands up, moving in between you and your mother as you stared each other down, neither giving in at the other's attempt at intimidation. You're her daughter, after all. You learned from the best.

"Do you know how many nights he spent crying and curling up in my room when we were younger? Do you even have the faintest idea what his favorite things are? You don't, do you?" Your lips curled up wickedly as you laughed mockingly. "Mother, you've never loved us as much as you loved your reputation. It's always what others think for you and never what we think. Don't start pretending to care—"

Slap!

You tense in surprise as a sharp pain warms your cheek. The Duke whispers your name out of concern but you could barely hear him. Your ears ring, an electrifying static doing waves in your mind as your breathing turns labored. Trembling fingers reach up to touch the delicate skin on your face, abruptly drawing back when you feel your fingers turn damp with something so scorching. It's a shallow cut from one of the stones of her ring but it makes blood drip down to soil the collar of your dress shirt.

For a moment, her eyes widen in surprise; her hand dropping weakly back to her sides as she gaped at you like a fish out of water. However, no sooner, her expression settles back into her apathetic norm except her brows have now pinched together grimly to match the stiffness on the juncture of her neck and shoulder.

"You have no right to speak to me like that. I am your mother and you… You're nothing but an ignorant, powerless, pitiful child! You know nothing of what I have to deal with because of you and your brother's uncontrollable natures so spare me your hysterics!

"Mother—" Your older brother switches his gaze from you to the older woman but she does not deign to stop.

"This discussion ends here. You will not do anything a Feiyun would not do. Do I make myself clear?"

You scoff in disbelief, wide-eyed as you turned to your brother and your father who all regretfully turned away from you. "Hah… You cowards… I don't know why I even tried. Fine. Don't investigate but I hope that tonight, you are able to sleep well in your purposeful ignorance; that you realize that everything that made me and Xingqiu miserable in this godforsaken life is this accursed family!"

You turn your back to them but before you fully exit, you glare at them one last time.

"It'll be me next then you, you, and you. When that time comes, I hope you remember that it's your inaction that costed you the lives of the people you say you love."

Not even an hour later, guards have been stationed in front of your room and down under the balcony of your room. Your meals have been sent up, held by an apologetic Shenhe who told you that your mother has prohibited you from leaving your room because she could not trust what you would do if she let you outside of the mansion. A few porcelain plates have been sacrificed in your wrathful reply and it was only because of Hu Tao and Alhaitham's help that you were able to sneak past everyone.

"…My lady, you do know that your mother is only going so far because she cares about you, right?" Hu Tao mumbles in the quiet room as she adjusts the ochre-colored synthetic wig on your head. "Do not be mistaken! I'm not trying to excuse her behavior but… Liyue's black market is a very dangerous place. Being a Feiyun won't help you there. In fact, it does little but paint a target on your back."

"I agree. This is an incredibly reckless action. I understand that you're anxious about our lead but there are other methods less rash than this," Alhaitham adds.

"Hu Tao, Haitham…" You start with a soft, bitter smile. "I know. But I have to do this. Not just for Xingqiu but for me as well. I have to know. I can't stand being in the dark for a second longer. I can't continue to doubt him with neither proof of guilt nor innocence."

In the end, you managed to prance around under the guards' watchful eyes by transforming into Hu Tao; the real one resting comfortably under your sheets, accompanied by a quick-witted Alhaitham who shoo'd away everyone who tried to check up on you. Three hours. He told you to be back in three hours or else he's declaring you a missing person and telling your father of your plan to force him to use all of the resources available to him to search every nook and cranny of Liyue for you. But…

"Where do I even begin?" You mutter irritably as you scratched at your head. Lingju Pass was far busier than you could have anticipated. Lost in your thoughts, you don't notice the shadow of someone crossing near you until your hood has been tugged down abruptly. "Who—?!"

"…Lady Feiyun."

You close your mouth at the sight of a familiar face. The length of your throat dries up as he looked you up and down, no doubt questioning why you're clumsily dressed as your handmaiden in the middle of an illegal hub of activities.

"General Alatus—" you give him a saccharine sweet grin as you attempted to curtsy subtly. "Fancy seeing you here."

The General didn't seem to be too impressed, only staring at you with an unreadable look in his eyes before he musters up a small sigh in reply. He looks left and right before motioning you to follow him into a far more secluded spot under the stairwell.

Checking once more for eavesdroppers, Alatus' lips twitched downwards as he damn nearly whisper-shouts, "my lady, why are you here? This isn't a safe place for someone of your status!"

"I could say the same about you. What is the Empire's General thinking, snooping around in no man's land? " You bite back just as swiftly.

He only sighs in defeat, looking like he's aged ten years in the span of a few minutes. There is a distinct hunch in his back, a lazy slouch on his shoulders as he tousled his hair with a roughened hand. Alatus hesitates for a short second before he's crossing his arms.

"If I tell you, will you go back home?"

You blink. "Of course not."

Maybe it was just your head conjuring things from sleep deprivation but you swear you heard a low rumble from his throat as he stared at you down with the same complicated look he wore when he first confirmed your identity.

"…Fine. Will you at least allow me to keep you company while you roam and do your business?"

"Why?"

This time, he doesn't attempt to hide his displeasure. "If something were to happen to you here, a civil war could potentially blow up. Additionally, I have to ensure that you are not plotting against the Empire."

"Ho… Would you look at that… Surely you must be aware that nothing that happens here can be used to implicate me in court."

"Of course, my lady. However, special circumstances apply to you because you're a Feiyun. If you were to be caught red-handed while you're, say, attempting to cause an insurgency… You needn't be tried at all. You'd be dealt with your punishment immediately. That is to say, you would be executed at the soonest possible opportunity."

The blank, almost disinterested look on his face makes you recoil in shock. You hadn't expected him to bring it up nor did you expect to suddenly be reminded of events past. Well, you clear your throat before nodding at his words, you did wonder why you were executed before a guilty verdict can be handed to you that time.

"Be my guest, then, General. I have nothing to hide. My business here today is personal. Nothing more."

Alatus nods at your words, finally looking vaguely pleased for once. "Before we go, please refer to me as Xiao."

"Xiao? Is that your alias?" You tilt your head.

"I suppose you could say that. The name Alatus is famous not just in Liyue but in the entirety of the continent. If it is thrown around without a care, the people here might misunderstand and spell trouble for us."

"I see… Then do I need another name for myself as well?"

"That would be ideal, yes."

You think for a moment before settling on a nickname. He repeats it, testing its flow on his tongue before nodding approvingly. "Good. Then let us go."

"Not so fast. You haven't told me your answer yet. Why are you here, Xiao?" You narrow your eyes at him.

"…His Majesty routinely asks me to check up on the state of affairs here."

You make a noise of disbelief. "But again, this place cannot be touched by Liyue's laws, no?"

Xiao's shoulders slouched as his eyes slowly fluttered to a close. He crosses his arms in silence and you could almost hear how loudly he seemed to be thinking. After another moment, he opens his eyes and asks you a question.

"Before I explain that, Miss—" he clears his throat after, a tad embarrassed at the unfamiliar lack of formality in the way he addresses you—"do you know why the Palace turns a blind eye on the events that transpire here?"

Though he asked, he waits for no reply and continues, already knowing the answer. "It's because the Palace cannot accommodate everyone's needs especially that of those who are among the lowest of the lows. For these people, the only means they can use to survive are those ultimately found forbidden by the laws of the Empire. However, with the Palace's duty to safeguard the welfare of every constituent in its territory, it's quite inhumane for us to disregard the lives of these minorities."

"So you allow black markets to exist even if it means that the privileged can also take advantage of this system nefariously?" You almost scoffed. "Perhaps the people are well-fed but is it not true that so many crimes plague our society because of the same apathy that feeds them? Assassination attempts, daylight corruption and robberies… Do these not exist because the Palace allows there to be a place above the law?"

The frown on his face deepens at your words. "There are clear lines that cannot be crossed within our agreement—"

"And yet people still cross them, and you people still fail to safeguard your other constituents. With how intelligent His Majesty is, surely he must know that this… vapid solution, if you can even call it that, does no good in improving our status quo. He can send his prized General and even come here to observe himself but it will not change anything. There will always be someone under the wheel."

He bites his cheek, clicking his tongue before turning away from you. "…In any case, I come here irregularly a few times a month to ensure that no one is going too far."

"And how far is too far?" You mockingly ask as you proceed to walk back into the light. "When people start dying? Clearly not. Then, I suppose it's when someone starts plotting against His Majesty, no?"

"…I advise you not to say such treacherous words."

You glance at him from the side. "There is less treachery than there is displeasure. Surely, you do not count expressing one's criticism to be an unfaithful act… What of my right to free speech, then?"

He scowls and you beam in victory.

"That aside, since you're clearly the more informed between the both of us…" You shoot him a look and he quirks his brow up in response. "You would know where to go if I were to be seeking information, no?"

Chapter 13: SHÍ — COLD REDS, WARM BLUES.

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

The overwhelming atmosphere of the underground culture remained but somehow, it was a little more endurable when you're hidden behind the reliable back of the Empire's strongest.

Yes, your nape remains to be damp from the heat radiating off the hundred or so bodies in this street alone. People still invade your private space with no care or word of apology. You still flinch at the roar of laughter in the crowd as they stood as onlookers to a dancer's roar of fire but as if noticing how uncomfortable and out of place you felt, Alatus—Xiao halts in his quick stride for a second to allow you to scurry closer and hold the hem of his loose tunic.

"You are too…" He mutters under his breath and when he meets your glare and your tightening grip, he couldn't help but scoff. "Miss, I don't believe you are scaring anyone with your gaze with how you're quite a fish blown out of water now."

"And anyone with manners, Sir, would know not to mention a lady's discomfort so blatantly as you did."

Xiao quite obviously fights the urge to roll his eyes but eventually, he does relent and curls his hand around your wrist securely. You try so desperately to not think about the last time he did that, finding cruel humor in the irony of the paintings' change of context.

"What are you doing?" You finally ask, tone-flat as you tried your best to keep up with his quick steps.

"Your stiffness is drawing eyes."

Appalled, you harrumphed. "Well! Forgive me if I'm so uneasy, surrounded by criminals and whatnot!"

At your words, Xiao abruptly pushes you to a corner, crowding your frame with his broader one. A chill dances its way down your back as you're forced to meet his amber eyes.

You've died once. You've lost people you loved the most twice. You've seen people die too many times. You think you've just about seen it all to stare back unflinchingly at the depths of despair and the flames of hell and even Death itself. You'd laugh at its face even—with how you could barely keep hold of this semblance of sanity you have now. But this… This makes you question yourself, ungrounding you from the solid precipice of your confidence and madness.

If Hell burned with half the faith and anger in his amber gaze, you'd think even you, with your unparalleled blasphemy, would beg for forgiveness in front of the pearl-coated gates of Heaven. You're far from a believer but you'd rather be an honest saint taken surreptitiously for granted than whoever you are now that convincingly overcame this, that, and everything else in between. Yes, this was fear, you think, and fear has become a stranger to you after everything but this meeting now has made your throat sticky. There was always something greater than fear—afterthoughts that had to be settled before you could allow yourself the reverence and care to forgive the imperfections and feel the crippling weight of your cowardice. There was always more desperation, anger, misery, disbelief, indisputable thirst for vengeance that you would only feel the vestiges of fear when everything was already settled to bother worrying about.

But this… This is fear because there is nothing else to think about; his arms trapping you against the wall, blocking all means of escape. If you tried, he'd probably just grip your hair and slam you against the cobblestone, and in this lawless place, no one would even bat an eye at your cries and it'll all be the same again. You are alone. You are helpless. You will die.

"Have you finally decided to show your true colors?" He seethes out. The muscles on his face were tense and creased as his expression turned sour by the second. "You've had so much bravado earlier. Had I not known who you are, even I might've been swayed and found your heart swollen with concern for the poor."

You raise a brow at his remark, lips pulled taut in an attempt to hide your true feelings. "Society is ill, the Emperor is mistaken, people here cannot be trusted. Did I say anything untruthful, Sir? Because I think not and so, I have not said anything to warrant such a disgraceful treatment."

"No? Well, let me ask this, Lady Feiyun." He damn near curses out your name—spits it out like it's the vilest thing he'd had in years and with how the stone cracked under his touch, you don't doubt it a single bit. "You've had your piece, dishonoring His Majesty's name like that but where were you? What have you done to help these people? You've drowned yourself in your extravagance. Where people had to fight one another for a drop of water, you've danced for weeks with the rest of aristocracy just because you felt like it. You're a hypocrite. What do you know to speak ill of those who are backed into a corner?"

Stop. You will yourself to bite your tongue but something bubbles inside your chest that causes your heart to bounce out of its rational constraints regardless. Out goes your fear and it's a terrible thing to be without it, you realize as you inch closer tauntingly at the man opposite of you. Without fear, you'll grow mad and do something out of the question, risking your life for nothing.

"And so? What do you want me to do? Forfeit my riches? Give to the poor, be one myself, suffer in humility? My, I never thought of you to be so securely faithful to a political philosophy so idealistic it hurts!" Your derisive laugh kisses his lips bitterly. "You seem to be lost in your head, General, so allow me to give you a small lesson."

Your hand wraps around the drawstrings of his red tunic and you tug so that you were glaring into those hateful yellow fires. "Do you know why there are still those who remains to be poor in the Empire despite the horrendous taxation system? Feiyun alone returns thirty-five percent of our income but dear me! I wonder where all that money is at?" You snicker at his changing composure. "It's because the people you revere so highly are sure to save some for themselves! However will they keep their pockets filled if they're compassionate? This social hierarchy you so detest is one kept brick by brick by the people you have put your faith into. Those self-interested bastards, including His Majesty, benefits from other people's misery. They maintain the underground market for the poor? What a joke! If they wanted to, they could fix all of this in a month but why would they ever want that when there's soldiers like you to feed and please—all so when civil war does erupt, your paid loyalty will keep your bosses in their cushy seats of power? If they can choose to save themselves, then so will I."

"You—!"

You click your tongue, pushing him roughly away from you with all your strength. You pray he doesn't notice your trembling fingers or the breathlessness of your voice. "Don't criticize me with your ignorant, impractical mind. Don't corner me so suddenly with your brutish strength either. I may have allowed you to call me casually but this extravagant, heartless woman still outranks you. Know your place."

His jaw tightens, meeting your gaze defiantly before he averts his gaze with a stiff nod. For a minute, you both stay within the suffocating confines of a tense silence, chasing after breath and calming racing hearts. You, for one, suddenly feel faint. Everything seems to be catching up to you now that adrenaline was slowly being washed off your bloodstream. You try to blink the dots littering your eyes aware as you tug off the scarf hiding your neck from view.

"Ahem… Are you alright, Miss?"

You glance at him with a frown, discomforted by the absurdity of the situation. One moment he was looking at you as if he wanted you to drop dead right there and then, and now he was voicing his concern. You've yet to meet someone whose mood flickers high and down as fast as you do but with him, you're not so confident about your "skill" anymore.

As if hearing your inner monologue, the General clicks his tongue. "…Don't be mistaken. If you were not to come out of here unscathed, it'll be both of our heads and many others' in a platter."

"Why, how kind of you, then." You purse your lips before sighing in defeat. "I feel… dizzy. It's hot here."

"Well, we are close to the waters." He replies absentmindedly as his gaze follows your movements. Noticing this, you begin nibbling at your lips anxiously.

"What?"

"When was the last time you have had anything to drink?"

You try to think of a response but as if the time it took for you to respond was an ample answer, he sighs and guides you to seat in a nearby stool. It was only then that you realized that the small altercation had lead you both near an unassuming food stall. It was one of those with wheels and hanging plastic wrappers and menus written with clumsy calligraphy and awful grammar and spelling. The middle-aged man checking on the dumplings in a steamer momentarily looks up to smile and grin at you both before hurriedly moving to assist another customer.

"Hold on for a minute, Missy! I'll be with you in a moment!"

The lack of propriety with that exchange alone almost boggles you. It's been a minute and a half since you remembered someone talking to you so casually that you almost forgot that for most, interactions are just that—simple, with no hidden intentions, and certainly not a life-or-death matter.

"—We'll have two of that, then." You flinch when you feel a hand on top of your head. You look up at Xiao who only gestures at the hanging lantern which would've burnt your hair had it not been for his small gesture.

"Ah! Sorry, sorry! I've yet to have that fixed! Missy, move closer to your lover so that it won't hurt you."

You make a noise of discontent but the stall owner was not having any of it. "Oh, c'mon now! No one here's aristocratic enough to care about public 'indecency.'" He snorts as he emphasizes his words with a sleazy raise and drop of his eyebrows.

Poor him, you think with a pitiful frown, for not realizing the irony of his words.

Beside you, Xiao coughs before hesitantly pulling your stool closer, earning a surprised shriek from you and an amused guffaw from the owner.

"What was that?!" You silent-screamed as Xiao sighs tiredly.

"It's better to just go along with it so we can get out of it faster."

You try to sputter a reply but unfortunately, found none that could disprove his claim. Instead, you sink deeper into your seat, a small humiliated pout on your face as you watched the man plate whatever it was that Xiao ordered.

It was… far from sanitary. Chef Mao would probably tug each individual strand of his hair in anger if he saw just how careless the preparation of a meal for a Feiyun went. The chopsticks he used was the same one that touched a half-sober customer's plate after he asked for seconds. It dipped into the sauce, and you think that when it comes to these things, it's a little beyond bare minimum that he even flicks it off before plating your order. Ungloved hands picked up the garnish and you looked away but from your peripheral, you think you saw unclipped hair brush eerily close to your plate when he leaned down to pick up the lid of the steamer that fell to the ground. How many times have that happened before it's once again placed on top of its other half? You mask the crumpled expression on your face with a polite bow of thanks.

Beside you, Xiao makes an incredulous noise, probably noticing your concerns. "It won't kill you but starving and dehydrating yourself will."

You have an argument for it. You've heard of people dying from all sorts of diseases but you don't dare speak it out loud, not just because of eager eyes waiting for your critique but also because you know that the General would only fire back a "you have enough money to pay for a doctor" or something along the lines thereof.

Besides, your stomach was grumbling under your corset and your mouth was welling up uncomfortably as you looked at what was presented before you. Steam shrouds the small round plate like a veil hiding a treasured delicacy and in a way, it was true. It was hard to think of any food, in your current state of mind, that looked more appetizing than the six pan-fried dumplings topped with chives. It was slightly roasted to perfect bronze at the bottom and under the warm light, the sheer wrapping revealed the perfectly cooked stuffing inside. The thought of having one on your mouth made your thoughts flicker with urgency. You swallow as discretely as you could but you think Xiao heard it anyway because he breathes through his nose and immediately, shoves one of his own in his mouth as if shoving his words back in lest you cause a scene out of embarrassment. The thought alone makes you feel flushed and you cough to hide it, picking up your chopsticks with as much grace as you can afford in your predicament.

And truly, have you tasted anything better?

You attempt to argue that it was just your hunger—that there was no way a common street food on a filthy corner in an abandoned ruin was better than the cuisines of chefs with degrees in gastronomy and years of training under masters of the culinary arts. However, the more you chew, the more the soy sauce mixes with the juices and flavor of the dish, the more you feel defeated. How was such a simple thing taste so good?

You risk a glance at the General and without needing any words, he greets you with a rare, triumphant quirk of his lips. "Not so bad, is it?"

"…Yes."

You push a dumpling with the ends of your chopstick before you attempt to take your second piece.

"Don't eat too fast. It's hot." He slides a steel cup closer to you and with a peek, you see that it was lemon water.

Your grip on your chopsticks suddenly feel weak and you turn your head to face him, momentarily forgetting your hunger and thirst as you look at him strangely.

"…What?" He mumbles as he returns your gaze, conflicted—and uncomfortable if the way he stiffens in his seat was anything to go by.

"Sir."

Oh, he already dreads what the next words to escape your lips would be.

"Are you one of those types in romance novels where your initially harsh personality softens and turns warm over time? Like… A hot and cold lover?"

Xiao's cheeks warm up and the loud, booming laughter of the eavesdropping stall owner had only intensified the furious blush he was donning. "W-what kind of books are you reading?!"

You shrug, blissfully unaware of the uncontrollable spiral of his thoughts. It was his turn to look at you strangely. You were exactly as the rumors say you were, the same way you couldn't be more different, he surmises as he watched you munch happily (albeit trying to stifle it and failing—he thinks it's actually pretty cute of you to try.) The Lady Feiyun he heard of was childish, reckless, spoiled, and exuberant in possibly the worst ways and, yes, she was all those but she was also intelligent, levelheaded, and ironically innocent. He couldn't help but wonder if you're just like the rest of the people roaming the streets of Lingju Pass. It's not to excuse your wrong-doings nor the criminals' but were you not victims, too, pushed into a corner, forced into doing this and that to survive in a society where everything had a weight of a million tons?

Because, truly, you, a Feiyun, the assumed worst of the lot, are probably the most palatable noblewoman he'd had the displeasure of meeting. Albeit wearing a genuine commoner's attire (and not of those particularly tailored to fulfill the nobility's twisted fantasies and roleplay), he has not heard you utter a single complaint about the cheap fabric nor the scratchiness of it. Your complaints about the food, too, are more because of its questionable hygiene standards (and Alatus would not lie to himself by saying he doesn't share some of those sentiments) and not because you're eating 'commoner' food. And sure, there's some elitism and superiority complex behind your tone but unlike those he'd mingled with, you consider those less fortunate than you as humans still—not animals. Unfortunately for everyone, General Xiao is a lot more tender and round on his edges than he looks and when he notices your gaze crawling around the scenery with sincere wonder and curiosity, he couldn't help but pity you. Pity for being misunderstood, pity for an immoveable immaturity and naivete, and finally, pity because, despite knowing very little of you, you seemed to have grown up deprived of satiety for your curiosity. And when you look like that, it's hard to think you're any different from the girls in the orphanage he volunteers for on his breaks. You read the same romance novels, pout over the same childish things, and forlornly gaze over the same 'more' whilst trapped behind metaphorical walls he couldn't even begin to describe.

And it's very unfortunate that he thinks, despite his hatred for the nobles, that you weren't so bad, after all.

You turn to look at him then with a silent question and he clears his throat for the nth time that night. "Are you done?"

"Yes, we can go."

He stands from his stool and leaves the mora beside the empty plates. You furrow your brows making sure to count twice to make sure that there were only ten pieces of it. The frown on your lips deepen.

"It costs that little?"

"For the poor, remember?" Came his almost monotone reply.

"I do recall, yes—" you roll your eyes for the nth time—"but still, if he can cook that well, surely he could've easily gotten into a scholarship program and worked at more… established places."

At your words, Xiao slows down and it allowed you to inspect his expression: all furrowed brows and a downturned curve of lips. "For some people, to remain here is a choice. 'What is the point of climbing the ranks if he leaves behind the people I care for?' I suppose it's something along the lines."

You scoff. "That's stupid."

"It's impractical—" he nods—"but not stupid. It's kind and it takes a different kind of intelligence to be so."

You avert your gaze.

"Do you not feel empathy?" He asks and you do not miss how it's lacking the sharp edge from before. Now, it's more inquisitive than anything else.

"I see it as feelings, in general, ranking rather low on my list of priorities."

He grunts.

"Well, in any case, is it much farther?"

"Just another block."

With how the events unfolded between the both of you, it was easy to forget why you were in here in the first place. Thankfully, it seemed that the General, as hard is it to understand just about everything that runs through his mind, was a man who keeps to his word.

If the Sumeru Tri-Kingdoms handle knowledge as a resource, then the same can be said for Liyue where information is the progenitor of all business ventures and really, what is life in Liyue if not a summation of beneficial exchanges between one another? From upcoming trends to a competitor's annual report, all sorts of information can be bought at the right price. Of course, you knew this. Feiyun has not been a stranger to this practice, hiring informants and spies with the lush treasuries you've got scattered all throughout the land. The rampant, mostly illegal share of information is precisely why they say that Liyue's walls have ears. However, you never grasped how sharp nor intelligent the network has become—until today that is.

Once asked about how information is dealt in the black market, General Alatus had worn a conflicted countenance. From his account, you learned that information guilds are not only thriving here but allegedly, the competition is so strong that most of the violations committed by the black market are related to the sale of highly questionable information in varying degrees. Recently, and very much to your disgust, the 'bestsellers' are information about the brand and make of the pantyhose of select noblewomen. By the General's sympathetic look, you could only surmise that some degenerate out there tried to know yours and really, you've never been more thankful for your older brother's enlightened mind than now.

Back to matters at hand, the pioneering information guild is named Black Sun and according to independent reports, it is composed of roughly one thousand informants stationed all across Teyvat. Their offers are vast and rumor has it that they hold information on even the most obscure topics most information guilds wouldn't even happen to come across with. Very little is known about the group, only that all the information they have sold is proven accurate sooner or later, and that they are lead by a mysterious man who goes by the name Dhul-Qarnain. The General adds that he rarely meets up with clients himself but that all his 'products' goes through him first. Compared to its competition, Black Sun has both standard and, to the farthest extent possible in their line of work, ethics. Really, with how Alatus seemed to know Dhul-Qarnain with all his household name glory, you'd think he was one of the people in the business. But, well, his small tangent does have its implications. Either he, the Emperor, or the Empire has brought information at least once.

You stifle a snort. You can't say which of which is more terrifying.

"By the way—" Xiao glances at you before looking straight ahead once more—"I can't guarantee that you'll find what you're looking for, much less, if you'll even be able to meet with a Flare."

"A… 'Flare?'"

"It's what Black Sun calls those who receives and caters to their select clientele. The on-field agents are called 'Spots' and the small circle overseeing their operations who report directly to the guild master is called the 'Corona.'"

"…Huh…" You blink petulantly as the information sinks in. "They're far more organized than I thought."

"There is a reason why everyone knows to reserve the largest establishment for them in the three locations. If you ask anyone about information guilds, they'll probably refer you to Black Sun first before anything else. But…"

"Let me guess... They're picky?" You continue for him and he nods in affirmation.

"Black Sun is both prominent and affluent enough to afford to turn down even the highest paying customers. That's why I can't guarantee that they'll bat an eye to you even with…" Xiao absentmindedly gestures at you and you immediately understand.

"Well, in that case, do they have any requirements I should meet or…?"

"If they do, no one knows it but them."

You couldn't help but click your tongue at his response. Once again, the odds weren't looking to be on your favor. Sure, there're other information guilds; in fact, you'd argue that there's too many of them but, call it a gut feeling or an educated guess, you think that if Black Sun is unable to give you what you need, neither can anyone else.

"We're here." Xiao glances at the guards that stood their ground in front of a dilapidated building whose holes were temporarily fixed with ill-fitted patterned tarpaulins in different bright colors. Even a bystander from afar can tell that it costs more than the average kind and when it's so haphazardly used in such a way, you think that it's there to impose and show-off purposefully.

"Speaking of—" he doesn't continue, instead, shifting his body so you were face-to-face. He stiffly looks around his peripheral before he takes your hand in his, gently brushing his thumb over your knuckles.

Your brows pinched at his actions. "…What is this?"

"Act normal and focus."

The word spills out of his lips with intent and his eyes, sharp and very much serious, makes you swallow thickly. If something had forced him to act so strangely then surely, it must be a subject you can't take lightly. He resumes his actions for a while before you start realizing that he was drawing patterns over your skin.

別提

The corners of your lips deepen as you stared intently at amber eyes that seemed desperate to get its message across to you.

奥罗巴斯

You nod and his shoulders turns lax. His grip on your hand tightens momentarily before he's turning around once more, pulling you with him gently as he lead the way to the building. The guards paid you no heed, even going as far as yawning when you passed by. Were they really able to defend against anything with their idleness? You bite back an incoming scoff. Well, no matter. It wasn't of your concern and with that, you diverted your attention to your front.

Frankly, the interior of the building wasn't any better than its exterior. Scattered across the hall were small groups of people that kept to themselves, nursing what you assume to be silver goblets of shoddy wine. Frayed carpets line the floor leading to the stairs and you wordlessly followed suit as Xiao pushed you carefully behind his back, hiding the majority of your frame from view with his body.

He gives you a look and at his behest, you follow suit, bowing and allowing the crude hood of your robe to pool over your head and conceal your visage from prying eyes. Mayhap it was your sudden entrance but as the old, wooden floorboards creaked under your weight with each step, the more attention was drawn to the both of you. You think you hear Xiao curse under his breathe before he's hastening his steps as much as he could before it's deemed suspicious.

Your trek comes to a sudden halt when a body blocks the landing. Curling further behind the General, you risk peeking at the offender. They wore a loose white garb with gradient purple and golden accents and a thin strip of black fabric as a blindfold. With their eyes obscured, you can't exactly discern the meaning of the smile on their face. It's…discomforting, for the lack of better words. You don't quite feel anything from it despite the pleasant demeanor it paints.

"Greetings, distinguished guests. Careful on your way and follow me." The stranger gestures towards somewhere in the east and they walk with ease and confidence towards a secluded corner.

"That's one of the Corona," Xiao mouths to you when he's sure that the stranger was far away enough. He even taps at his throat where you realize the crown-shaped pin was located on the stranger.

"Is it normal for them to receive clients like this?" You mouth back and Xiao grimly shakes his head. At his reply, you pretend not to see him repositioning his free hand to be near a sheathed dagger on his leather belt.

Clueless about your short exchange, the Corona giddily engages you in a conversation. "It's rare for someone of your stature to visit us, dearest benefactors. Master Dhul-Qarnain was rather insistent on receiving you himself."

"Is that right…" You trail off, exchanging looks with Xiao who was beginning to look tauter by the second.

"Yes, this is his office!" The three of you pause in front of an unassuming door. The stranger clears their throat before knocking a small pattern on the door. Within seconds, a smooth voice cuts through the expecting silence that befell the corridor.

"Come in."

The stranger holds the door open for the both of you and you welcome the sight of a quaint office—nothing out of the ordinary and rather bare, if you may say so yourself. It was a given seeing how all of this would be deconstructed and moved someplace else in a few hours' time but with how luxurious the carpets displayed outside were, you expected some grandiose sentiment from the guild master.

Speaking of whom, the man called Dhul-Qarnain was seated behind a simple wooden desk. His hands, masked with a leather black glove that made his silver rings glimmer spectacularly, were laid in front of him for all the world to see. He looked at ease—at home in his space and you could understand that there is some unique sense of security in being imperceptible. Like the stranger, he wore a loose white garment and a black blindfold, only that he also donned a midnight blue shawl that hid his mouth from your eyes. Whether it was on purpose or not, you couldn't decide but it certainly gave him a clear air of mystery.

"Lady Feiyun…" You could almost hear the smile in his voice. "Welcome to our humble abode. You've travelled far. Please take a seat and allow us to offer some refreshments."

Your eyes flicker to the clock. "There is no need. I'm afraid I can't stay for long."

"Is that right…? Shame. I was looking forward to getting to know you better…" Out of thin air, he manifests a blue rose and he stands up, walks around his desk, and approaches you. "Well, no matter, let's talk business."

You hesitate before taking the rose held by his outstretched hands. "I want to know why my younger brother was here a few moons ago."

"Ah, of course… But…" He moves to lean against the couch, tapping meticulously over his arm.

With a roll of your eyes, you hand a hefty bag towards the attendant's awaiting hands.

"There we go! Always a pleasure working with quick-witted individuals!" They share a laugh while you and Xiao grimace. Something about this exchange was off-putting but you can't quite put your finger on it. You shake the thought off just in time to hear Dhul-Qarnain's response.

"The Young Lord Xingqiu had an appointment with someone from Veritas—!" He pauses before chuckling weakly. "My apologies for not clarifying. Veritas is another information guild here in the underworld but they also offer other services like…"

He trails off with what feels like a wicked grin and perhaps fed up by the dallying, Xiao continues for him from beside you. "Assassinations, illegal trade of arms, unauthorized auctions."

"Ironic, isn't it, milady?" The guild master uncrosses his arms to dramatically shrug. "Or maybe not. What is a more honest truth than the darkest desires of humanity?"

"…Get to the point," you reply.

"Specifics will cost another fifty thousand~!"

"Dhul-Qarnain!" Xiao raises his voice at the same time you threw another bag of mora at the man, who sadly caught it with practiced ease.

"Thank you very much for your generosity, Lady Feiyun!" He purrs, sending a cursory look at the General's displeased frown before looking at you again. "I believe Veritas had been connecting him with some foreigners from Stone Gate for quite some time now. Among them, my informants have reported the names 'Rene' and 'Jakob.'"

At your conflicted expression, the guild master sighs and begins to stand upright. "Don't look so solemn, my dear lady… I'm a man weak to misery, you see. It hurts to see you like this…"

At his words, your face only sours further.

"Hehe… Has no one told you that you're quite the adorable little thing, Lady Feiyun?" He chuckles as he pinches your cheek with a small coo—something Xiao immediately puts a stop to as he slaps his hand away. "Because you've earned my heart and also because of my unparalleled joy over these—" he swishes the money bag and the coins made small bell-like clinking sounds—"I'll give you a small bonus: a tiny not-so-wild wild conjecture from my end as an overseer of information."

"And that would be?"

"Your brother has been frequenting Liyue's underworld for a few years now. Coming from my informants, it appears that he was attempting to find a cure for 'eroderem,' a symptom of an uncommon disease otherwise known as Dragonsbane that's suddenly spreading wildly in the outermost borders of Snezhnaya. What a curious sickness that is—disrupting the body's balance by increasing its Yang." He whispers mysteriously, tone dropping as he lowers his head to your height. "So then I ask, my lady, what can break the light if not the darkness?"

Your breath hitches.

Orobaxi.

Notes:

[1] - The Chinese characters that the General wrote on Lady Feiyun's palm roughly translates to "Don't mention [it]" and "Orobaxi"

[ NOTICE ] — I'll be redirecting you to my ko-fi page as I'll be posting my updates (and sometimes, trivia) there. I'll be doing so to make things convenient if ever I have to announce that I am unable to post as scheduled or if I need to rave about how exciting the part I'm writing is. However, please don't take this as me coercing you to donate (although, if you do, that would be very much appreciated). All of the content related to ASOM's main story will not be pay-locked. I, do, however, plan to publish extra content that may or may not be considered as part of the canon (similar to otome game routes/personal stories/alternate endings). Supporters will also have early access for Act 3. I'll announce more details later when everything is finalized and Act 2 is finished. For now, I have posted a projected calendar for ASOM in my page and I highly suggest you check it out. Thank you!

[ KO-FI ] — /neuvilletes

Chapter 14: SHÍ YĪ — WELCOMED FEARS, SPURNED FAITHS.

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

The guild master's eyes, albeit hidden behind a thick, black cloth, left an inarguable streak over every fine print of your expression. It felt oddly viscid on your damp skin but you wouldn't lie and say that it's the worst thing you've ever felt. If you dug your nails into the insides of your palms hard enough and if you squeezed your eyes shut tight enough, you reckon you might've been able to delude yourself into thinking that his lingering gaze was kindled by well-meant concern. A shame that you had no interest in playing into your chummy role any longer; schooling your face into a dictionary-definition of indifference as you stared back into a void-esque fabric.

"Do not speak in riddles, Dhul-Qarnain. The Lady has paid for what she seeks. Hold your end of the bargain and speak the truth." The silent but oppressive voice breaks your stare as you both twisted to look at the General who had shifted his cloak to reveal a small dagger.

The guild master only raised his hands with a smooth chuckle, unbothered by his words and foolishly egging him by sarcastically drawling a weak word of submission and very obnoxiously dropping his head.

Frankly, you've almost forgotten that Xiao was there but you were glad that he had reminded you. Liyue's walls have ears and sharpest is the Emperor's loyal mutt (the words of those in the higher echelons would say to spite the man beside you, not yours). You nibble at your lips, a long breath escaping out of your nose as you look to the side. Positive or not, good-natured or not, it wouldn't do to discuss potentially damning matters in front of the Emperor's aide. It was only by some virtue of a miracle that the General was rather slow to get the gist of the guild master's words. You could hardly say the same would apply for the Emperor, however.

"…It's fine, Sir. I've gotten what I came for. We best be off. I'm running out of time."

Both men looked at you: one unabashedly entertained by the twist of events and another confused but otherwise keen to leave the place as soon as possible.

"That is true—" the guild master nods with a soft hum. "Best we begin closing shop up. Come sunrise and I just might be locked up in the basements courtesy of our lovely, dear General over here who deigns to allow even a single compromise over the stipulations in the contract."

The man subjected to the underhanded remark grumbles and you could only roll your eyes at the show being presented to you unwillingly.

"That being said, it was lovely meeting you, Lady Feiyun. I hope you wouldn't be a stranger if I somehow found myself lost and wandering in your territory. I've heard that's quite a common occurrence nowadays." He tugs down his shawl to reveal a sly grin.

"And you mean?"

"Oh, nothing! Just that quite a few notable personalities seem to be walking in and out of Feiyun manor these days. I was wondering if I'd get the same pass."

At his words, your frown deepens. It was no use denying facts when you knew that he would know better but…"Why in the world would I welcome you?"

"Eh," he shrugs before shuffling closer to you with a mysterious curl over his lips, "great conversations happen over a cup of tea."

Your father once said that the mark of a good businessman is their ability to market their goods anytime and anywhere. It makes sense that this conniving, opportunistic man happened to create an unshakeable name for himself in the black market of all places.

"…Bring a suitable gift and I'll consider it," you reply, as always, with a strained grin. He gave you chills—the undecipherable kind—and you couldn't even consider running away with how your discussion had to abruptly end.

"Heh, not to worry, my lady. It's easy enough to know your preferences."

Dhul-Qarnain takes your hand once again, making a show of how he bowed and pressed a parting kiss on your skin before he withdraws with one final wave of his hand. Your reply came with a firm nod before you briskly turned around to the direction of the door.

"Wait." You sneak a glance at the General who was unflinchingly boring through the guild master's head. "I've heard rumors about you once belonging to one of the illegal mercenary groups of the Sumeru Kingdoms but given your present stature, I would've assumed that you had enough class to stop yourself from robbing the Lady."

You flinch, looking down at your arm instinctively and, sure enough, the bracelet you were wearing was missing.

"…Nothing but a small practical joke, General, don't worry. I would've returned it when I meet with Lady Feiyun once more in the future."

As he says that, he walks over to you once more to hand the thin silver chain. "You're in luck. Had you done that, I would've gone after your head. It's a precious gift from someone who ranks higher than you."

"Oh, I know…" The blindfold crinkles as, or at least, you assume, the guild master's eyes turn into crescents. "Pure silver, round-cut sapphires and…" He snorts. "Whoever gave it to you must care a great deal about you, my lady. At least, enough to make me jealous."

"For gods' sake—!"

There is a special place in your heart for everyone on your side who has dealt with someone such as yourself without a single utterance of complaint but now, as you feel your shoulders slouch, as your head began throbbing with a visceral pain, as you feel the muscles on your lower back ache, as you age more within the past few minutes more than you have in a decade… Well, it goes to say that they've cemented and sealed themselves in their spots. There is no greater grievance in the world than a cheeky, little gold-hungry human, you think.

You hurriedly step out of the room in fear of simultaneous combustion but even a few meters down the hallway, you could still hear the haunting echoes of the guild master's laughter. It sounded nice: husky, a little higher in pitch, smooth, and sincerely amused. It was hard to feel offended over being the subject of his amusement when it's been quite some time since you've heard someone sound that ridiculously happy over such a little thing but gods, was he annoying.

Like repels like, as they say.

"Lady Feiyun," you slow down as you hear Xiao call out to you from behind. Within seconds, he'd kept up with you, dallying just a few steps behind out of respect. "Allow me to escort you home."

"Am I not keeping you from your observational duties?"

He bows his head, one hand pressed over his heart. "Not at all. I have accomplished what is necessary while accompanying you around."

"Truly?" The lilt on your tone has much room for doubt. "Well, if you insist."

For a while, you two remain in relative silence—him only speaking when he redirected you to one of the nearer exits of the building. It's much closer to the faster route home, he says, making use of the entrance by Yujing Terrace to head towards Feiyun Slope. But after you exited the busy ruins, the silence of the incoming dusk began to unnerve you. Even the cicadas' murmur is missing too, given the time of the year. With a sigh, you sneak a glance at the General.

"Sir Alatus," you start and when he grunts in reply instead of aggressively attempting to shut you up, you continue, "you seem familiar with the underworld."

His brows pinch imperceptibly. "You think so, my lady?"

"Yes."

You remember all the times you've crossed paths for war preparations. His face, far too honest for that of a military general, have always tried to hold a solemn façade, only to fail and instead, mirror the distaste in his heart. You don't quite think anyone could silently scream 'I would kill a hundred men and more just to be elsewhere but here' any louder than he can. Whether it's the deadly glares, the tightness of his jaw, the way he'd poke his tongue at his cheek, clicking it when someone says something particularly distasteful… General Alatus always seemed like Atlas who was carrying the weight of the heavens on his back—an eternal condemnation that bounded him to an endless cycle of losses. Afterall, what is war if not defeat after defeat even under the banners of victory?

But you see none of it today. Ironically, in a place where there are no rules or laws, General Alatus looked like he had taken his first breath in years. There is a relaxed slouch on his body and an even more comfortable ease as he navigated you through the crowds, pointing at seemingly familiar delicacies, and telling you stories that he shouldn't have known. It shouldn't make sense for a knight to be like this, yet somehow, he exists as a paradox to reason.

At your short reply, he hazards a small huff that, in your own mind, sounded like a half-laugh. "I don't suppose you're interested in military gossip?"

"…It sounds more like my younger brother's thing."

"Not even after your involvement in the war?"

You scrunch your nose. "Especially and particularly after that."

He stays silent for too long to your liking so you turn to face him, only to gape as you notice the soft smile on his lips. It wasn't particularly bright or joyful. In fact, had it been earlier in the night, you think the darkness would've hidden it from your sight. But now, as the first light of the day peeked through the thick clouds, the rare moment was captured by your mind, as awe-struck as it is now. A small amused smile from a withdrawn, terrifying man. It's so contradictory that you almost believed one cannot be with the other…

Is it wrong to find that it suits him better than any of his colder countenances?

"War is unpleasant, yes, but it happens all the same."

You quickly avert your gaze from him. "You're good at it, though."

"Do you like all the things you're good at?" He suddenly fires with the beginnings of a wider grin.

"Touché."

From the corner of your eyes, you see how the wind tousles his hair and how he tilts his head to look far ahead into the sky. His eyes flutter close before he opens them again, a quiet voice resonating loudly inside the hollowness of your head.

"…My origins are… rather commonly known in high society." He swallows. "For a time, many gossiped about it, especially the nobility. I thought you would've known so as well."

'He has been the General for what… Four years?' You think to yourself as you hummed absentmindedly. It wasn't like you cared about anything particularly important four years ago. There was an entire lifetime dedicated to the bitter fruits of that blissful ignorance. And now, you hadn't spared a single thought about him nor meaningly gossip, too preoccupied with too many particularly important things.

"Back when His Majesty was nothing more than a vagabond who happened to have royal blood running in his veins, he, too, made use of the underworld to survive. In one of his escapades, he came across a trafficking ring. He gave us a choice to run and live our lives freely or to pay our dues to him by helping him take back his birth right. Among those he freed, I was one of those who swore to follow him to the end and among them, I happened to be one of those who lived long enough to be installed as a general."

You bit at your cheek for a few seconds before sighing at the forlorn glaze that now covered his eyes. "My apologies. I didn't mean to bring up bad memories."

"Not quite." He shook his head lightly. "I… believe there is as much comedy in my life as there is tragedy."

"Oh? I didn't take you to be such an avid fan of theatre."

He clears his throat. "I'm not… But I heard that my lady is so…"

Unsure about how to reply, you keep your silence and the atmosphere once again settles into one that is disconcerting. Thankfully, the last remainder of your journey came fast. Before long, you were within the familiar streets of Liyue Harbor, a small puff of breath escaping your lips and your neck losing the tension you didn't realize it held while roaming unfamiliar parts of your homeland.

"This is as far as I'll escort you, my lady. There are many patrol guards in the main street. You will be safe." You curtsy at his words, silently watching as he salutes one last time before turning to the opposite direction—the one heading towards the Palace.

Stifling a sigh, you turn around only to spot a disapproving figure from the distance.

"It just comes one after another, doesn't it?" You mutter under your breath, hand subconsciously moving to massage at your temple as your brother slowly met you in the middle, followed by a sheepishly smiling Hu Tao and an ever stoic Alhaitham.

"My dearest sister," he seethes in between gritted teeth, "does your stubbornness know no bounds?"

You scoff. "If you've come to lecture me, dearest brother, save it. I know the repercussions of my actions and despite acknowledging them, I still chose to do it."

"Do you understand the complexity of this matter?" He bites.

"As a matter of fact, I do." You bite back.

You could almost see the throbbing vein on his forehead, steam escaping his ears, while stumbling words are rattling against the confines of his mouth but in the end, he only sighs in defeat.

"You are safe, are you not?"

Reluctantly, you nod.

"Good. Then none of this ever happened—the same way none of this will ever happen again, do you understand?"

"…I do." You weakly reply as you look away. He stares you down for a few seconds longer before turning his back to you.

"I expect a full report of your findings by tomorrow."

It's bewildering to be at the receiving end of your brother's cold, business demeanor when he has always reserved a cheery disposition for his family on normal occasions. Before you could even formulate a reply, he was already leaving you in the middle of the streets. You don't think he's quite forgiven you yet with the heaviness of his footsteps but at least, it didn't escalate into a full-blown fight. Small miracles.

"…The Young Master made sure that the Duke and the Duchess wouldn't know of your escape." Alhaitham slowly breaks the air between you three.

"Small miracles, indeed." Your eyes close, legs swaying in relief before you're leaning most of your body weight against his biceps. You feel an arm wind around your waist, firm to support you but careful not to bruise. Just as you were about to entertain the calls of slumber, Hu Tao tugs at your hands.

"We should head back, my lady. His Majesty has called for a sudden meeting among the High Table. The Duke wants you and the Young Master to accompany him and you're set to leave in a few hours. You should catch as much sleep as you can."

"What does he want now?" You couldn't help but groan, much to Alhaitham's amusement, lips curled in a small smirk as he began dragging your body with him.

"Ahem."

You pointedly ignore the Duke's loud cough, opting to stare at the passing scenery of Liyue's main street. As the horses strutted, their hooves clicked against the stone pavements and it was the only sound that echoed through the tense silence of the carriage. Across you, your older brother mirrored your pose, arms folded, frown firm, and deeply furrowed brows. He, too, was doing his best to avoid looking at you, much to your father's chagrin who had to awkwardly sit through what would normally be a chatter-filled ride.

"…Did something happen?"

"None at all." You both replied, one more urgent and one more sarcastic than the other. Heavy with the fog of irritation, you send a sharp glare to his direction before huffing dramatically. It was petty and you do understand his position somewhat but a stifled child deep inside you found the whole situation absurd. You left without permission once and suddenly, he was ignoring you and making foul quips shrouded with the vaguest pretense of subtlety just to avoid a direct confrontation with you in front of your parents.

Well, two can play that game, you think before returning your attention to the gloomy skies.

It was not unusual for Liyuen winters to have grey-toned skies. What was unusual is the dampness in the air. Typically, snow would fall, frosting the glass windows and turning cheeks numb and lips chapped. However, these days, it was more common to hear the furious roar of the heavens instead of seeing the pearl waltz of falling snowflakes. Your frown morphs into a small pout. It was such an inconvenience. The lace sleeves of your dress felt uncomfortable from how sticky your skin felt.

"Well, what do you think His Majesty is calling us for?" Your father interrupts your train of thought as you instinctively spare him a glance.

"I'm afraid I cannot say." "I was under the impression that you would know the answer."

From the corner of your eyes, you see your brother scrunch his nose as you spoke simultaneously.

"…Nothing came through my information channels. Everything is working as normal in the Harbor."

A noncommittal sound escapes you and the carriage falls into the hands of silence once more.

It was by some unspoken miracle that it didn't take long before a guard was opening the door. Had you been confined with your sulking brother and your oblivious father, you think you would've pulled each individual strand of your hair out of sheer insanity. Really, how could they just ignore your plummeting mood? You roll your eyes just in time to spot a familiar figure approaching you with a regal bow.

"Greetings, Your Grace, Lady and Lord Feiyun. Please allow me to escort you to the Southeastern Wing. The other Dukes have already arrived while His Majesty will be with you all in a moment."

The Southeastern Wing?

Ignoring your differences for more pressing matters, you couldn't help but sneak a glance at your brother who was also similarly looking at you with a knowing look. The Palace is notoriously strict with the areas guests can freely loiter in, coming a close second to the Tenshukaku. Among all the areas deemed as off-limits to the public, the Southeastern Wing that houses confidential documents and the infamous meeting place of the High Table was the most well-guarded.

Frankly, they made it sound fancier than what it truly was but the High Table is simply a congregation of the Empire's Dukes who run the vast majority of the Empire's territory and the representatives of the most important families under them. For instance, the Duke Feiyun was part of the High Table and so is the former Count Yun who was his close associate when it comes to his businesses. Normally, membership among the High Table is passed alongside successorship but Countess Yun, who is also betrothed to your brother, is hardly considered an individual entity anymore in the aristocracy's mind. For the lack of a better expression to express your displeasure, it's all a bunch of bull but those old—

"Sister," your brother coughs under his breath, "you'll kill someone with how sharp your gaze has become."

Going back, even your brother who is the heir to the Feiyun Dukedom has not been allowed entry nor glance at the Southeastern Wing and if he cannot go inside, then what more you, the former troublemaker of Feiyun? With how conservative the old fools were, to agree to hold a meeting that allows such sudden exceptions to the age-long tradition could only mean one thing and one thing alone: Liyue is facing a crisis of unprecedented scale.

It truly is one thing after the other, you thought and the slouch on the two males' shoulders makes you think they share the same thoughts.

Ganyu reminds you of the rules: that you shall not speak of anything from the meeting outside of the room, that the meeting never happened in the first place, that this was the Emperor's ultimate sign of trust and that it shouldn't be treated so casually. Her words dampened the solemn visage of your father even more. He's no stranger to these meetings but he never seemed to grow fond of it at all.

Thankfully, the walk to the meeting place ended sooner than you thought. Or, perhaps, it was all just in your mind that has been wandering away since your day formally started. With a push of the door, you welcome the unfamiliar sight.

It was the farthest thing from your expectations—incredibly bare-boned and strange for such a luxurious place as the Palace. There was a wall of bookshelves on both ends of the room though you doubt many would actually attempt to read in a room where the only source of light was a creaking chandelier with rusted chains. In the middle of the room was a long, wooden table with a map of the continent placed on its dead center. You spot colored pins on random places though you don't even know where to begin if you were to guess what they signified. Giving up on that venture, you instead looked to the sole empty seat (disregarding the three closest to it that were meant for you and your family). Unlike the other chairs, it has a higher, more imposing backrest and an ochre cushion but other than that, it was simple—wooden, no ornaments or symbolic engravings. It was unfit for an Emperor. Nay, the entire room was unfit for the status of everyone in it. It's more of a rebel's shabby hideout that anything.

Wait.

You did your best to stifle the involuntary snort bubbling in your throat. It is with much doubt that you consider having the elders laugh along with you because of a small quip about the Emperor's storied past.

"Duke Feiyun! And the Young Lord and Lady! Welcome, welcome!" Duke Tian's bright voice breaks your reverie. He was your and every single one of your siblings' godfather, and likely your father's only true friend. You recall many moments in your youth where he'd visit and try to convince your mother to let you go on your small, innocent but overall inappropriate adventures. He was much closer to your older brother who often came to him for advice but he was a smart yet warm man that you're also quite fond of. In your past life, you think you vaguely heard about how he was the only one to file a diplomatic protest about your family's sudden arrest among the long list of your family's allies.

You curtsy alongside your brother who finally donned an easy-going smile for the first time that day. Meanwhile, your father cupped his outstretched hand before striding powerfully to the seat at the right hand of the Emperor. You follow suit, guided by a gentle hand on the small of your back. You sneak a glance at your brother who was already looking at you. On his face was a weary hue but the small spark of mischief on his eyes makes you release a breath you didn't know you were holding. No matter what happens in this meeting, all was well. The world is finally shifting on the right angle and on the right axis as the silent apology and forgiveness settles in your mind. It was no longer suffocating to be sat between him and your father who had discretely patted your knee reassuringly before withdrawing to himself once again.

"How was the ride here?" Duke Han politely asks from your 10 o'clock. If Feiyun was to finance, commerce, and trade and Tian was to internal affairs and legislation, then Han was to innovation and technology. He was considerably young to be a Duke, much closer to your age than to your father's which is why you remember him. Not to mention, his field was highly important in contemporary times for the development of the nation. No individual discounts the importance of advanced machineries when magic is no longer an accessible option for easing tedious labor. And, of course, there was that. Had Marquis Caeli not come into the picture, it was probably him whom you would be betrothed to.

"It was fine," you reply flatly which prompted your brother to laugh lightly.

"Nothing of note to share to your wondrous mind, I'm afraid, Your Grace."

At your disinterested stare and your brother's thinly veiled plastic warning, the Duke flushes red before immediately engaging someone else in a conversation to cope. Youth and inexperience can be remedied by time but you don't think anything can quite fix an arrogant attitude after his words of 'catching' you caused a scandalized uproar among the people when nothing was finalized then.

"The Undying Sun of the Empire, His Majesty, Emperor Morax have arrived!"

You all rose to your feet, bowing perfectly as you heard the shuffling of clothes. The chair is drawn and a formidable shadow darkens the table as he moves to sit down.

"Have a seat."

Silently, everyone obeyed.

The corners of his lips rose to show a kind smile, emphasized further by the soft curl on his eyes. "Thank you for heeding so swiftly to my sudden request. I'm sure I've given all of you quite the trouble."

A chorus of "no, Your Majesty!" and "no trouble at all!" broke the tranquility of the room. You couldn't help but notice how your father just stared blankly ahead whilst your brother had at least some decorum to tilt his head to hide his non-reply. Your mother would have a field day over this had she been here, you couldn't help but think as you copy your brother's gesture.

"I see… My heart is gladdened that our empire has such devoted and good-hearted public servants." Only a fool would not notice the sharp, mocking inflection in his words. You almost chortled as a tag-along count took the praise anyway with a smug smirk. Life was truly such an oxymoron. "In any case, I'm afraid that I will have to cut to the chase."

The Emperor clears his throat before leaning forward, resting his elbows on the surface and hiding his mouth behind his entwined hands. "Yesterday night, a sudden earthquake hit the areas near Qiongji Estuary. It resulted into fifty and counting casualties, more than ten million in infrastructural damages, and a thousand displaced people."

Duke Han furrows his brows before mumbling to himself. "…An earthquake? So suddenly?"

"I've asked for the release of this information to be delayed until we've taken care of the pressing matters. The media will be sure to attack the mining companies. Duke So, advise them to be ready." The Emperor continues and this time, it was Duke Feiyun who interrupts.

"Feiyun would be more than happy to house a quarter of those people for the time being. The rest, I'm sure our noble Lords would take?"

Pressured by the Duke's sudden volunteerism, an echo of yeses filled the room and soon enough, each citizen was accounted for—something that Ganyu was quick to write down in a legal paper in case they suddenly take back their words.

"As for the damages, Liyue's laws are clear about this. Duke Xu who is in charge of public works should take responsibility over the supervision of the matter." Duke Tian smiles tightly at his fellow Duke who swallows before quickly nodding.

"Very good. I have sent out the Millelith to retrieve the bodies and I have arranged for a mass funeral to be held the day after tomorrow after finishing the clearing operations." The Emperor hums before nodding approvingly. "That sums it up for this event. Moving on…"

You exchange looks with your brother who was equally surprised with how fast paced the meeting was going. In your head, you were sure the nobles would try to shift the burden of responsibility more, ever greedy as they are. Seemingly noticing your confusion, Duke Tian gives you a sneaky wink before returning his attention to the Emperor. You suppose it is clear who holds true power among this hall of pretenders. Only three wills ever matter, you cough to hide your snicker.

"An hour before I called for this meeting, I received a report from a fisherman that witnessed Guyun Stone Forest sink after a sudden and unanticipated typhoon."

Bewilderment spread across the people like wildfire and this time, you were not spared. Shock makes you drop your leg from how it was once crossed and you immediately glance at your father whose eyes were now narrowed at the Emperor. He looked just about like a tiger who was about to pounce after having its tail stepped on—body leaning forward, hands clenched on the table as he glowers.

"Why have we not heard of this until now, Your Majesty? It has been hours!"

The Emperor averts his gaze to your side of the table with a deep frown on his otherwise calm front. "I have issued a news embargo—"

"Again? Do you plan to rule an empire of secrets, Your Majesty?" The Duke seethes through his teeth.

"Duke Feiyun, it is improper for you to—!" Some random Count interrupts but he, too, was shot down swiftly.

"Shut your mouth if you do not understand what is being spoken of."

The room welcomes a new kind of suffocating silence; one they wish they never came to know off as they stare at the silent back and forth of the two most powerful men in Liyue. It goes on for forever and the trepidation makes your vision hazy as you swallow nervously for the nth time. Here, your father was bravely confronting the Emperor and while admirable, you can't help but find it only foolish as unwanted memories resurface. He was someone who killed off people who disagreed with him. That was one fact you couldn't forget.

Beside you, your brother considered mediating between the two but before he can open his lips, your father relents.

"My apologies if my wording has offended you, Your Majesty, but you must know that this is not right. We are your allies. We reserve the right to know about what is happening to our nation. What of everyone if the empire was falling apart as we speak and we know less than our constituents' gossip because of these embargos?"

Reluctantly, Duke Tian voices his agreement.

"I am not blind to your points, Duke, nor do I find my actions savory either. However, as the Emperor of Liyue, I took the action I believe to cost us the least." The Emperor motions for Ganyu who quickly stands up to hand him a pile of parchment, some more aged than the others. "Do you believe in coincidences, Duke? Everyone?"

Some shook their heads while some nodded. Your father stared at the Emperor as if asking where he was going with this.

Instead of giving him a direct answer, Emperor Morax averts his gaze, idly tapping a rhythm over his hand as he continued. "Ever since I took my place in the throne, all sorts of propaganda to oust me came to light. Some about my lineage, some about my sins, and some… about beliefs; making use of religious ideals to mislead people. Quite a few people tried to publish all sorts of nonsense but they all died down eventually. Except for one. Do me a favor, Duke."

He pushes the pile of papers to your father who looked at him oddly before picking the top layer to read. Suddenly, he pales—something that sent the alarms ringing in your and your brother's brain. You inch to the edge of your seat, hand curling around the armrest as you stared at your father's trembling hands with apt attention, seeking for any minute sign that would point you to an answer about whatever the hell was on that paper to cause such a reaction from the Duke who was just overpowering some of the most influential men alive with ease.

"This is—!"

The Emperor's face turns blank as he stared at each one of you dead in the eye. A shiver crawls down your spine as you wrapped your coat tighter around you.

"A group has been calling themselves 'prophets.' A week after my coronation and every 4th week of the new year's first month since then, they attempted to publish a book that contains a list of their prophesies."

"Hah! What a load of bull! The mystical arts is a hoax!" Duke Han interrupts, red in the face and absolutely affronted at the idea that someone would believe in spirits and what not over his science and facts.

"…I would say so myself, Duke, but—" your father swallows before he finally looks up while waving the paper in his hand. "An excerpt from the original book, dated April from the Old Calendar [1]. 'War will mark the fifth year of the usurper's reign. For angering the heavens, the earth will churn and wreak havoc in the mines of good signs [2]. After which, the seas will swallow the earth east of the Harbor.'"

"It came true…" You stammer out as you stare wide-eyed at the paper. You only snap out of it when you feel a heavy gaze on you. Shifting, you meet the Emperor's eyes who, just then, seemed to be uttering his next words directly to you.

"There would be three more disasters, one for each of the remaining agents of the Wuxing [3]. While we cannot verify the correlation between the 'prophesies' and the disasters yet, I am unwilling to risk the people when thus far, we also have no evidence to denounce them either."

The Emperor looks down before standing up, his fingers clawing at the wooden material of the table as he forces himself to spit out the next part of his monologue.

"As such, under the power vested in me, I, Emperor Morax of Liyue, declare the Empire to be in a state of crisis. From now on, we will be operating under the assumption that everything will happen according to the book. Make haste and prepare the necessary countermeasures at once!"

Notes:

[1] - The dating system used before Emperor Morax's ascension to the throne. It was a calendar unique to Liyue and caused many misunderstandings between locals and foreigners who used a uniform calendar system. The newly coined Moraxian Calendar is the same as the universal dating system with the exception of strictly implemented local holidays.

[2] - Qiongji Estuary is home to the first fully functional mine in the Liyue Empire. It was given the name 'mines of good signs' by Liyuen ancestors as they saw the discovery of the gold-filled mine as a symbolic mark of good fortune in the near future. Today, the Chasm is known as the primary mines of the Empire but Qiongji Estuary's mines retain their moniker and is the main source of income for the majority of the villagers nearby.

[3] - The Wuxing, also known as the Five Phases or Five Agents, is a concept in Chinese philosophy used to explain a variety of phenomena across multiple fields of study such as feng shui, military arts, and traditional medicine. It was founded during the Han dynasty and can be analogically placed across the Western idea of the 'four elements.' However, whereas the Western derivative focuses on the form of the substance, the wuxing system focuses on the processes that occur within, both internal and external (see: cycles; generating and overcoming interactions).

[KO-FI] - New commentary available — "Political Structures and Governments in Teyvat"

Chapter 15: SHÍ ÈR — FALSE GODS, TRUE DEMONS.

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

"I heard you've been busy," you roll your eyes at her playful quip before stabbing your fork through the silky chiffon of the cake you've ordered. Somehow, you've found yourself in a private café nearby Liyue's chancery. Frankly, it was one of those days where you'd rather curl under the woolen blankets you've recently bought and do nothing. However, although sudden and more troublesome than it is beneficial, you couldn't deny Yanfei's invitation after you've given her the rather hefty task of scooping through hundred years' worth of information for the slightest mention of dragons. Dragonsbane in Snezhnaya, the Tsaritsa's sudden alliance with Khaenri'ah that could produce Orobaxi with their black magic, and finally, Ajax's cryptic words about his true mission: unearthing the secrets behind the dragons and serpents. There's only ever enough coincidences you could brush off as a happy accident and you're starting to believe this one is nearing "too much."

"Just this and that. To no one's surprise, I'm rather high in demand."

Yanfei shakes her head with a small grin. "Only you would openly call yourself a commodity."

"Aren't we all, though?" You push a slice of fruit around the floral porcelain with your fork. "Engagements, labor, heirship, and war… All forms of selling human commodity in my eyes."

"…Now, whatever happened to you to form such a nihilistic take?"

You reply with a wry smile. "Like I said, this and that."

"Right… Well, let's talk about something else. You must have noticed, right? High society… No, the entirety of Liyuen society is becoming more unstable as of late."

Your shoulders fall as her words sink in. "I'm not surprised. Disasters have been happening left and right."

"Sure, there's that but the unrest has been around even before all of this. If I were to try to make an approximate, I'd say prior to the beginning of the war… Around the same time you began looking into Orobaxi."

"You think so?"

Yanfei nods firmly. "I remember it pretty clearly. For the most part, His Majesty's reign is well-taken by the people. His actions, albeit unorthodox and sometimes, even radical, have all brought about positive changes to the Empire."

"Ah… Yes… 'En route to the new golden age,' I remember hearing…"

"Honestly, my opinion about His Majesty is yet to change. You can dislike him as a person but his leadership is the best we've had in centuries." Yanfei clicks her tongue as she brings her teacup to her lips. "Shame the public doesn't seem to share the same sentiment. Well, not anymore…"

"You mean…?" You lift a brow.

"Well, perhaps not. They've just been uneasy as of late. Ever since the Orobaxi incident, people's faith in His Majesty's capabilities have been wavering. I mean… As far as the people know, it is House Feiyun that found a solution for it and that you did so without any direct order from His Majesty."

"Hah…" The backrest of the chair you're seating on creaks as you all but dangled yourself on it, uncomfortably leaning to look at the glass ceiling of the establishment in thought. "So it did end up happening…"

"What did?"

You briefly meet Yanfei's curious eyes before you resumed your slouch. "The people in Inazuma's positive response to His Majesty, Emperor Kunikuzushi's take over was largely because of their displeasure over the former Empress's lack of action over the Orobaxi issue. I was wondering if Liyuen citizens would react the same."

"Seriously… If only they knew half of the plotting His Majesty has been doing behind the scenes… They'll be thankful for having someone who actually cared about their circumstances… Haven't you heard of that Countess from Fontaine? Her territory was flooded leaving more than a hundred with no income and what did she do? Eat cake! The nerve of some people, really…"

"She's in trial, no?" You slowly chewed on the last bite of your cake—an ironic scene if you were to say so yourself. Then again, it was more frosting than anything else.

"As far as I heard, yes. Though I believe it's really just for formalities. The Court of Fontaine might be fair and just but even such a place will topple in front of public demand."

"That's true… Ultimately, what are we to do if those we employ decide that enough is enough?" You hum darkly. "What will he do if the people start calling for his head?"

"My apologies, who?"

You grin. "His Majesty."

Yanfei pales at your words, abruptly looking left and right for eavesdroppers before sighing when she finds none. Her sharp glare immediately zeroes in on you soon after. "What have I said about such treacherous words?! In front of the Chancery, too, of all places! You'll get us both killed!"

"What? It's just a thought, is all…" You couldn't help but chuckle, the fork falling from your loose grip and it clatters to the plate with a loud noise. "It's a curious wonder, is it not? Will he manage to solve this issue in time? He is nothing without the support of the nobility and the nobility is nothing without the support of the people. It's clear who they will side with if only to keep up with their images."

Yanfei stays silent but eventually slouches in defeat. "I suppose so…"

"Father was right… His Majesty loved his secrets and now, it's coming to bite him with much venom."

"That's true… You could be hiding the truth out of the goodness of your heart but eventually, everyone will clamor for the truth and they will only see the person who has hidden it from them, not the person who did so to protect them."

"Small good deeds for big losses… What a horrible business venture." You couldn't help but snort.

For a while, Yanfei nibbled at her lips before hesitantly leaning closer to you over the table. "…Do you hate His Majesty, my lady?"

"Hate is a strong word…" You pause. "We just have different methodologies, is all… And I don't quite understand him. He makes me feel uncomfortable. Like he can see me but I cannot see him. Not to mention, he has this penchant for switching sides. He's the patron saint of the people one moment and a cruel god of war, the next. Nothing scares me more than a man who can be both good and evil on a whim."

"A god of war, you say…" Yanfei trails off before bitterly smiling. "I see it. Gods, omniscient and omnipotent as they are, have always preferred sending mortals to their death despite being capable of warring until the end of time with nothing but a few scars that would eventually mend… Liyue, too, has lost a number of good men…"

You frown. "Just to be clear, I agree with His Majesty on this end. This sacrifice was necessary and they knew very well what they were getting themselves into when they became soldiers of the Empire."

"And on this end, are you any different from His Majesty?"

You freeze before hiding a wicked smirk behind your gloved hand.

"Quite so. Unlike him, I've never paraded myself as a humanitarian and if I have, it is but a mean to an end. I've never seen myself as a good person. Not when my compassion's boundaries have a shorter reach than that of an average criminal's."

"So you admit His Majesty's a good man?"

"Perhaps a good heart once upon a time. Or at least, one that is more sincere than I will ever be." You correct. "But you see, the difference between myself and His Majesty is that I would never do such troublesome good deeds just for it to never be seen in the light. He will, however, and dare I say it, I believe he prefers it that way."

Yanfei slowly nods. "I've never met him myself but he does come off that way… Someone who would hide his genuine intentions to craft a stoic, impermeable façade."

"He's not a bad ruler…" You fiddle with the hem of the table cloth with an absentminded tune. "In fact, I'd call him smart. But then again, what good are intelligence and worth if you are battling against impressionable, uneducated, and ignorant fools?"

"Wherever did that spite come from?"

You smile.

"I'm petty, is all. Just a human being at the end of the day. Naturally, I seek both gratitude and apology for all the things that I have done that have ultimately come unrewarded." Your words die down into a short lull of silence before you're shrugging and taking on a lighter tone once again. "That and I've much to gain with being on His Majesty's side. If something were to happen to him… Well, that'll be difficult for me and who likes difficult things?"

"Certainly not you…" She grimaces. "I truly pity Sir Alhaitham. Has he even been getting any sleep with how you pushed your territorial duties to him?"

"Ah! Well, you'd be surprised to know that I have been very busy these days!"

Yanfei raises a brow. "With a new custom-ordered dress."

"Habits do die hard but I was meaning to say, I've been reallocating resources for the refugees."

"The same ones you've asked Countess Yun to finalize?"

"…She needs to learn how to do it one way or another… She'll be the Duchess of Feiyun before she knows it…" You avoid Yanfei's dry gaze by sipping at your now lukewarm tea.

Before you could even begin to think of an escape from her scrutinizing gaze, tea spills onto your clothes. Noticing the quick fanning of the ochre stain, Yanfei hurriedly stands to grab a napkin only to freeze as she carefully watches the table tremble. It is strong—like the vibrations have come from the very core of the earth itself. It causes short spams in equally short intervals, causing silverware to clatter and for the vase to topple over. Confused whispers scattered through the small café and you gently placed the teacup down as you feel the shaking intensify. It moves the tables and chairs, swings the chandeliers, and takes your thoughts into a toxic frenzy as your keen eyes watched the tea in your cup swish back and forth the rim in a hypnotic dance.

Was this part of the prophecy? There was the Wood, Fire, and Metal left. Which one is it? Or were you wrong and this was all just a coincidence?

No. You've lost faith in coincidences. Not when there is an unknown conspiracy alongside it.

"My lady…" Yanfei's aghast tone causes you to flinch and snap back into reality. "The sky…"

What was once an elegant shade of blue with scattered wispy clouds to reflect the midday time became a rumbling night sky. Lightning flashes behind the spaces in between the plentiful decoration of thick, greyish clouds. You catch a glimpse of it then. A perfectly round, blood red moon and a starless entourage as thunder claps once more, sparking a series of terrified screams as people scrambled to crawl under the tables. Unlike them, you keep staring—no, it would be more apt to say that you couldn't do anything but stare. The red moon hovers over you like an ever-watching eye that omnisciently knows the truth behind every strand of your truths and lies. Your legs feel like sweet gelatin at the thought. To be so stripped naked like that was frightening, indeed; much more than the rattling rumble of the earth that restarted as a devouring voice resounded from the main street.

"Citizens of Liyue! Hear ye, hear ye!"

You stumbled closer to the window with Yanfei right behind you. Chairs fall with each sway and your hands gripped on a pillar for support as slowly, blobs of red and orange began appearing from the corner. From afar, it looked like a bouquet of summer flowers but as they approached and as bony hands waved them forward, it looked nothing but the flames that melt the wax seal of a death sentence.

"Hear ye! Hear ye!" The crowd echo as they stomped forward to the direction of the Palace. Their footsteps feel like a giant's rumbling gait, expressing a deep-rooted fury as it looks for things to decimate from existence. Perhaps that in itself is a truthful description. The incoming crowd looked and felt like monsters. Lightless eyes that stared straight ahead and never elsewhere, and perfectly timed replies as they wave their banners and torches.

"W-who are these people…" Someone whispers behind you as they stared at the same ghastly sight as you were.

These people who wore such drab clothing, stained with oil and grease from the industrial zone of the Empire were clearly from the lowest bracket. There was no question about it. Their thinning hair, welted skin stuck to bone, and unhealthy color said it all. You were no fool, of course. Liyue, perhaps, experiences the most severe gap in its constituents' social statuses. It has been for quite some time—a natural consequence for the tight hold of money and power in the land. Where there are the rich who are thriving in their expanding businesses, there are the poor who are constantly exploited for it. Such is life and life is never quite as sweet as how it appears to be in the looking glass from childhood.

At the front and center of the hoard of people with half a leg under the ground was an elderly man. Unlike the rest, his face was flushed red just like the under layer of his priestly robes. In hindsight, it was probably not for the best that he kept himself so winded. You didn't need to be so up close to see the raging veins throbbing and almost coming to a pop on his forehead and neck. If he could, you have no doubt that steam would be escaping from his ears as he wildly waved his arms around as he begins to scream with all his heart once more.

"The Heavens have spoken to me! Disaster will fall upon Liyue! Death is certain for they who have angered the gods!"

The café falls into hushed whispers but it is not so hushed when everyone was doing it at the same time. You look at Yanfei who stiffly swallows the lump on her throat.

This was bad.

"The day before yesterday, the ground shook with a fury of great magnitude! Countless are the losses of our Empire and yet, the truth we deserve to hold has been sealed by the usurper's lawless hands so that we may remain ignorant to his falsehood!"

"An earthquake? In Liyue? Is it true?" You feel eyes fall to you, awaiting confirmation or denial and it was instinctive to press your lips together as if afraid that any moment, an incriminating word would fall accidentally into the open.

"Yesterday, our lands were swallowed by the wrathful tides! My dear people! This is not the end! The Heavens' anger will not be quelled so long as such a man sits upon our god given throne and sullies it with his dirty blood! What we are witnessing is the beginning of the end! The sign of the times that we will not survive! This is the prophesy we have seen! This is the only truth we will proclaim even at the cost of our lives!"

You snap your head towards the onlookers. It was hard to gauge their reactions but for the most part, there was disbelief—that much is to be expected. But behind the shock was a murmur of distrust and unease as the words of the 'prophet' reached their ears.

You didn't need to be a genius to figure how this would end. In a few moments, the Millelith will come to disperse the protesters. They wouldn't go without a fight and will force the soldiers' hands. Many will be injured and the crowd will gape at the show of 'unnecessary violence' which will only further the uncertainty about His Majesty's true colors. It was always there. A shadow. A lingering threat. A predator hidden behind crafty veils waiting to pounce at the right moment. The people of Liyue have chosen to turn a blind eye to it but they have seen what he was capable of doing and you don't think they're so quick to forget that bloody revolt either.

His Majesty… is in danger.

"Today, we march for the peace and prosperity of Liyue! Let our voice shake the towering wall of lies of the usurper! Oust him!"

"OUST THE USURPER! TAKE BACK THE THRONE!"

The shaking of the ground intensifies as the crowd stomped like a herd of bulls who are seeing a flag of red waving across their eyes. Perhaps that is not so far from the truth. The Chancery was just up ahead and so was the Imperial Palace.

"Lady Feiyun—" Yanfei's words are interrupted by a particularly loud pair from the left of you.

"'The Heavens?' 'Prophesies?' Is he serious? There's no way this religious tomfoolery is real! Psh! What a waste of time! I hope the Millelith comes to clear this mess up soon."

"Perhaps it's not but…" His friend trails off, hesitantly looking at the crowd before speaking once more. "It is true that His Majesty has never been transparent with us. We only know of things after it's been done. Who knows what he's doing behind the scenes?"

Hushed agreements made its way through the group like a vicious plague.

"And-and! Remember? His Majesty didn't do anything about Orobaxi! He just declared war when everything has gone downhill and costed us millions in taxes!" A woman interrupts nervously but loudly and like a spark to a firecracker, it seemed that it was all it took for everyone to unearth their grievances.

"My brother was drafted and he lost an eye! Does His Majesty even know what he's doing?!"

"No one has forgotten about how he murdered so many people just to get the throne, right?"

"…I can't believe I fell for his lies…"

"That's right… He's the descendant of that Emperor, right? The one that burned Khaenri'ah to the ground?"

A noise of discontent leaves your swollen, bitten lips as you paced back and forth, listening to the protester's roars and calls and the café's increasingly loud jeers for His Majesty. Just as you heard the unmistakable rush of horses, you turn to Yanfei who swiftly nods and motions for a waiter who quietly leads you to the back exit. Before the door shuts, the onlookers couldn't help but let out a collective gasp and you wonder what caused such a reaction from them. Did they see something so very terrifying like, perhaps, the General of the Imperial Army?

"Where to, my lady?" The coachman asks as you scurry around the corner of the block.

"The Imperial Palace."

Yanfei looks at you strangely. "It'll be difficult for you if the protesters catch sight of you near the Palace now of all times, Lady Feiyun."

"I'll pass through the northern entrance," you quickly reply, shaking off the lingering look of worry she wore on her face. "Never mind that. Can you do me a favor and contact Baron Trifolium?"

"The Baron? What for?"

"I'm curious about that thing…" You hum in deep thought as you tilt your head to look at the sky better. It was still a midnight black and the red moon has only grown more menacing as the clouds that once obscured it went missing from the endless vastness. You are reminded of an innocent, child-like thought: the one that goes along the lines of the moon following you wherever you go. It's a nightmarish idea now, you scoff under your breath before returning your attention to your friend.

"Do you perhaps think that this is the work of Khaenri'ah?"

You shrug. "Well, I certainly don't buy into the whole 'heaven's mandate' they're preaching."

The carriage creaks under your weight as you successfully situate yourself on the plush seats. Your eyes catch Yanfei's one last time and you give her a firm nod which she returns grimly. "I shall see to your request as soon as I can, my lady. I'll inform your family of your whereabouts as well. I'm sure they will be anxious after word reaches them that a…prophet has made an appearance in the Administrative District."

Yanfei bows and takes a few steps backward to let the coachman close the door properly. For some reason, the small mundane act seemed daunting—ominous even and confined within the walls of the carriage, no matter how thin they were, you found yourself suffocating. You run a hand down your face as you let out a muffled, drawled out groan. You don't know where this dread was coming from but you know, deep down in your heart and your soul, that you had to speak with the Emperor no matter how discourteous it would be to appear out of the blue in front of his gates without even the vaguest warning of your intent.

The carriage ride was short. The Imperial Palace was only a few blocks away from the Chancery. Still, you couldn't help but burst through the doors as soon as it draws to a halt. There was a gut-wrenching feeling with staying inside it for even a minute longer. There was an invisible spider, you think as you trudge to the Imperial Gardens where the Emperor was said to be. It had crawled over the nooks and crannies of the tiny wooden house and spilled its web to create an elaborate prison just for you. Had you stayed a minute longer, you truly believed that it would have sucked the courage out of you to reinforce the constraints. What can you say? You're terrified. Of the prophets, of the Khaenri'ahns, of the mysterious plot, of the Emperor.

But you would be lying if you said you're not terrified for him too. If something happens to him, Liyue would be nothing more than a carcass lying in wait for the vultures to feast on. When that happens, what would happen to you? To Feiyun? To the entire world even? There was no one, no one, in Liyue who can bear the weight of his crown.

"Your Majesty…" You breathed out as you finally stop from your hastened stride.

"Ah, Lady Feiyun…" His lips quirk up as he serenely turns his back to you. "…I have been expecting you."

You don't miss the bittersweet turn of his voice. "Did you know this would happen?"

"Is there any ruler who is not hated by at least a handful of their people?" The Emperor chuckles wistfully before motioning for you to stand beside him. You obey.

"Forgive me for my words but I think this is not mere hatred, Your Majesty."

"Perhaps but hate is a good enough word for now."

You let the air hang for a minute longer before your downturned lips parted once more. You repeat. "Did you know this would happen, Your Majesty?"

Emperor Morax remains silent. You knew what it meant.

"How?"

He glances at you from the corner of his eyes before he's fluttering them close, his long lashes—though it could very well be just a trick from the overhead lamp's orange light—seemed wet as it fanned over his porcelain-like skin. Again, it could just be your unreliable state of mind but you think his under eye seemed darker than usual, emphasized with an imperfect shadow that felt quite amiss amidst the Emperor's regality.

"They are not wrong to say that I am a sinner. The same way they are not wrong to say that I come from a lineage of sullied blood. All crimes will eventually come to light and there upon, the hammer of justice falters not. You could say that this was a long time coming. One that… I had anticipated before even the moment I decided to be Emperor."

Your brows pinch at his words. "If you knew this would happen, why did you come to the Harbor? You could've ran away, never to be seen again by anyone and the prophets wouldn't have been able to stir up this fuss."

"Is there such a place, Lady Feiyun? A place to go to where none who chase can catch their prey?" He laughs softly, a veiny hand reaching up to tug the ribbon keeping his hair up loose. "There is none so I figured that yes, I might as well face fate and struggle against it."

You flinch as he turns to you with an amused twinkle in his eyes. His loose hair that fell like water streams over his shoulders gave him a more roguish charm—one very mischievous and… genuine as the gentle slope of his lips bordered sarcastic. "It is what exiles do best, no? Struggle. To live, to breathe, to be at peace."

"...What a crazy jerk…"

He coughs to hide a low snicker and it strangely reminds you of how dragons let out a puff of air when a mortal says something particularly odd and entertaining. Or even a low purr—the kind that rumbles straight from its broad chest. The imagery ironically suits him well.

"As I was saying—" Emperor Morax offers his arm to you and you carefully hook your hand around it, unintentionally feeling how firm his biceps were even without it clenching. He was a great lancer, they say. You don't doubt it with how easily he seemed to lead you into his pace. "—if you are concerned about my well-being, then there is no need. I am bent on accepting whatever the outcome would be but, of course, I will try my best to make it so that I get the ending that will please me most."

"…I'm not as worried for you as I am worried about everything else." You mutter under your breath but he hears it anyway.

He smiles softly, a slight tease on his voice. "So you do truly know how to break a man's heart, Lady Feiyun."

"…What kind of rumors about myself have you been subscribing to, Your Majesty?"

"Hm… I don't think that's of importance but… Regarding your concerns, I believe that all will be well in the end."

You couldn't help but roll your eyes. "I never took you as an optimist, Your Majesty."

"Not an optimist." He shakes his head as he gently pulls you closer so that you weren't so close to the edges of the stone path in between rows of plum blossoms. "But I do have much faith in the abilities of my constituents."

You raise a brow and thankfully, he's not in the mood to elongate the suspense. "You are here, Lady Feiyun. I told you once and I shall tell you this again: if it is you, I do not doubt that all will be well."

"Me? What do I have to do with anything? Forgive me but I'm not so charitable nor powerful enough to save you from this predicament." You scoff.

"That is true." And although it was, you still couldn't help but pout at how easily he affirmed your words without trying to keep up the false illusion of courteousness. "But regardless of your morals, at the right price, you will see through the other end of the deal no matter what. In this regard, we are the same. Contracts exist to be honored. That is not a subject to debate."

You frown before breathing out a defeated sigh. "…I suppose business is business. But however will you know of my abilities when you've yet to see it? I mean… Your faith was with me before my involvement with Inazuma."

This time, he takes a long time to answer, molten eyes scanning each flower, each petal as if the answer you are looking for can be found in one and he intends to pluck it with his free hand. But in the end, his face folds back into its royal fit and he offers you a small smile. "One of a ruler's best weapons is their intuition. But it also helps that you have very doting parents who talk about your potential very often and that I have a sharp ear for such things."

An irritated look flashes in your eyes before you're shrugging in temporary defeat. "Fine. Supposing that all that is true, Your Majesty, what can you possibly ask of me that is within the realm of my abilities?"

"There is one thing I care most about in this world." He hums, drumming his fingers absentmindedly over his chest just as you've seen him done many times when he's sat in deep thought. "Lady Feiyun, look after our Empire."

"…What?" You almost squeak in surprise but you managed to stifle it into a whispered shout.

His eyes crinkle as his smile turns wider, maybe comforted by your unguarded reaction despite everything that is happening outside of the Palace's walls. "You are a smart woman, my lady. You know that I cannot come out of this unscathed. In this battle, I truly… have lost. Even the High Table cannot protect me now. Not when we are all equally chained by our service. When such a time comes, our enemies will take advantage of the power vacuum I would've left behind, and our Empire will fall into a deep turmoil that I am not certain we can ever rise against."

He sighs before stopping in the middle of a small, wooden bridge overlooking a thriving koi pond with beautiful, rose-colored waterlilies. He keeps his almost forlorn gaze on the ripples in the water and you couldn't help but follow suit, his low voice serving as melodic tune in the background. "There is no greater pain than watching our people be manipulated into damning our nation. In my absence… It would truly comfort me greatly if I know that there is someone I can trust in the Palace who will keep things in order while I attempt to deal with this matter."

"…Why me? The Tianquan is closer to you… In fact, I reckon even Miss Ganyu would be able to handle such matters alone."

"Because of legitimacy. I do not have heirs and neither Lady Ningguang nor Miss Ganyu have rights to succeed the throne. In cases like this, the Imperial Law finds it so that the Duke with the closest blood relation to the Imperial Family will be the regent until the High Table and the people announce their consensus on the fortieth day after the throne is vacated."

"…The Duke with the closest blood relation…" You repeat with a deep furrow on your brows. "I remember the Empress before your enthronement was a distant relative of Feiyun… But even so! You should be asking this of my father!"

He nods. "I have, yes. The Duke and I prepared a contingency plan long ago in case I am unable to continue my duties. That said, it was made with the assumption of my sudden death, not this."

"And so, why—"

"The Duke of Feiyun will be the regent, yes, but it would be hard for him to control the war outside our borders and the investigation into Khaenri'ah at the same time. That is why I am asking you to take care of Liyue. It is not wise to fight two wars simultaneously."

You groan. "I understand what you mean to some degree but… this is… a great demand… What exactly can you offer to balance the scales when you've just asked me to practically be Emperor for forty days?"

The Emperor's expression flickers before he's wrapping his hands around the handles tightly. "In exchange of you looking after my most precious possession, I, too, shall look after yours, and… If I am not mistaken, I believe that currently, there is nothing more important to you than answers."

The General.

Noticing the darkness in your face, the Emperor laughs apologetically. "Please do not be so furious with Alatus. If you must point your fingers, then do so at me who demanded a detailed report of his small adventure."

You ignored his words in favor of weighing your options. Of course, he must know something quintessential if the Tsaritsa herself sent her most prized weapon to seek answers from him. But was it worth it? You risk a glance at the Emperor who was now patiently looking at you, leaning against the guardrail as he silently enjoyed the coolness of the breeze that mussed up his hair beautifully. Under the dark skies, he, alone, shines like gold—a stream of glimmering light in an endless darkness of confusion. It is blinding. You cannot ever trust a light too bright but… He is ethereal, in this moment.

Who were you kidding? 'Was it worth it?' A fool's question. Only the truth can draw the curtains to this madness and you've just about had it with it all.

"Very well. I accept. I, as the eldest daughter of the noble House Feiyun, place in line our honor to form this contract. I will do my best to protect our Empire from harm and wait patiently for Your Majesty's return. Shall I fail to uphold my words, let the clouds swallow me whole."

He smiles fondly at you before mirroring your pose, placing a dainty hand over his beating heart as he tips his head forward, the feather on his earring swishing elegantly at the smooth motion. "Likewise, I, the Emperor of Liyue, place in line my honor to form this contract. I will answer Lady Feiyun's queries to the best of my ability truthfully and with integrity. Shall I fail to uphold my words, let the earth shatter my being."

You stay quiet for a few solemn moments. In the end, it was you who chose to break it. "…How do we start?"

"Rightfully, at the beginning…" Emperor Morax sighs as he straightens his back. It was a long story to be told. "Legends say that before the first kingdoms in Teyvat came to be, the rulers of the lands were dragons. They had unsurmountable power paramount to that of the gods. Orobaxi, for one, was a dragon but its serpentine features made locals call it a serpent and later on, a serpent god."

At your unshakeable attention, the man couldn't help but smile. At that moment, you very much looked like a child listening to a bedtime story. It was endearing, he couldn't help but think. Nevertheless, he continues. "But gods are called as such precisely because they are arrogant. The dragons' existence itself were an insult to their name and so, they sent down a curse that killed those creatures from within."

You gasp. "Dragonsbane!"

"The Bane of All Dragons… A species that relied on their Yang energy to muster the powers of their elements… were ultimately killed because of the abundance of it." He slowly whispers as if sharing a secret that will affront the gods if they knew of it—and was that so far from the truth? "On their last moments, some dragons used their remaining Yin to transfer a part of the curse to the mortals. After all, our images take after that of the gods—a gift from fondness, they say, but it seemed to be another curse entirely with how things panned out."

"…How do you know all of this…Your Majesty…?" You ask hesitantly as you eye his clenched hands. If he exerted more force, you're sure the wood would splinter and his palms would bleed. There is an unmistakable air of power around him now. So scornful… So furious… So… dragon-like…

"Because Liyue's dragon-king was kind… And even in its last breath, it only ever wished for our prosperity. Knowing that the gods' favor was fickle, it blessed the strongest man it could find among its people with its powers and tasked him with protecting them." He exhales, forcefully releasing the tension in his muscles and his now-reddened hands. "Surely, you know the rest."

"…That he conquered the largest territory in a great war with the help of a rich benefactor and became an emperor?" You guessed and with how his shoulders eased up more, correctly too.

"Very good. He became the First Emperor of Liyue after dominating the war-filled continent that succumbed to such a state after the sudden extinction of the dragons with the help of House Feiyun and the other four original ducal families. He is also my direct ancestor."

Your head was positively spinning at this point. If you let loose any more than now, you're sure you'll faint from shock. "And 'eroderem'? What is that?"

"For the lack of better terms… It is similar to amnesia. From the sheer pain of quite literally being burned to death by Yang, memories erode until only the most striking remain. Unfortunately, for most, that consists only of the most painful moments in life…"

"Then… What a cruel disease it is…" You smile bitterly, chest filled with an unfamiliar ache. If there is such a time when you are struck with Dragonsbane, you'll surely be forced to remember how you were prosecuted and humiliated. You'll live day after day after day the same minutes as when the guillotine fell. You'll see day after day after day the same glass-dead eyes of your brother, the messily chopped hair of your mother, the sickly warmth of your older brother's blood. And truly, you think you understand it now. You'll take that wretched cure—Orobaxi—yourself. You'd rather go insane from deceptive happiness by your hands than be driven insane by all the tragedies of your life happening over and over again as if the clock stopped for you ages ago and now it could only wind back and flow through the gaps left behind by your tears.

The Emperor could sigh as you both silently look up at the red moon watching your each and every move.

"Yes... What cruel gods we have…"

Notes:

[ NOTICE ] — I made a small mistake in the calendar. Act 2 ends one week earlier. Please refer to the post in Ko-fi for the revised copy.

[ KO-FI ] — /neuvilletes

Chapter 16: SHÍ SĀN — DISTASTEFUL CIRCUMSTANCES, FAVORED OUTCOMES.

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

You lean closer to the mirror to observe the way your jewelry sparkled under the light. The necklace you were wearing was a surprise gift from the Emperor—a false shirt collar that hung like a choker made of a soft black lace with golden trimming. On its second layer was a simple pearl-beaded string with a teardrop-shaped citrine on its centerpiece. It's relatively simple compared to what you're used to but it is pretty. When light hits it just right, the yellow glimmer morphs into a deeper, more intense maturity. It reminds you of black tea in the summer or dried leaves in the fall or even, His Majesty's eyes. It's of the same color—of the same, perpetual state of cunning as you shift back into your seat, not missing the way the citrine shines like a sharp blade.

Fingers weave into your hair as it is pulled back to reveal the matching pair of earrings you wore. You lean further into Shenhe's touch as she momentarily massaged at your scalp. "I wonder what he's planning…"

Your handmaiden mimics the gentle, unsuspecting tone of your voice as she engages you into a conversation before she abruptly halts into a stutter. "Are you speaking of His Majesty— Er… Z-Zhongli…?"

"Mhm… I keep forgetting that he's no longer to be addressed with that level of respect…" You sigh as you absentmindedly fiddled with the stone on your neck. "He's a nobody now… Again…"

Yesterday, at exactly six in the morning, officials from all territories of Liyue piled inside the court house alongside the Chief Priest and his assistants who came all the way from the peaks of Jueyun Karst. It was quite amusing, really. You'd never seen or heard of those monks ever taking interest in the matters of Liyue for how many years but the moment a few people appeared to challenge their supreme authority over religious affairs, suddenly, they're the most proactive citizens you've witnessed with your own two eyes.

You had to give them their due credit. The priests worked very hard to argue on His Majesty's behalf. It was just an elaborate hoax, they say, 'tis all heresy because why ever would the gods bestow their holy will to a bunch of nobodies? However, just like His Majesty's foresight, it was all for naught. The officials who feared the people's outcry folded to their will like a pack of spineless fools. It was a miracle in and of itself that His Majesty got away with a mere exile and not a public execution. That, you attribute to Duke Tian's persuasive tongue—a final favor, or rather, a bestowment of hope that His Majesty can find a way to right all the wrongs happening in Liyuen society in his brief period of exile from the biased eyes of the Court.

And so, yesterday, Liyue fell into chaos just as the gavel fell to mark the partial impartiality of justice. The name he chose with such carefulness when he ascended to the throne was stripped from him. His Majesty, Emperor Morax Dei Lapis, bearer of the same name as the first recorded dragon ruler of Liyue and the first human king of Liyue, became 'Zhongli' once more—a mere commoner with not even a mora in his purse, forced to grapple at minute chances in the underworld just to survive. It was a bit sickening; there is this vile bitterness in your mouth as you recall the fondness in his voice as he told you of why he chose that as his name. It would be his legacy, his treasure, he said. It is with much irony that the characters to the birth name he has returned to, 钟离, reads as 'clock' and 'to leave.' Was his birth mother a prophetess, too, to give him a name that so encapsulates this 'time of departure'?

You scoff at the foul humor of all this.

There is no particular concern for him still but even someone like you knew how to draw the lines in mocking. This… felt like too much. Like from the minute he was born, the Emperor was teased by fate by dangling his most precious dreams right in front of his face only to snatch it away when his fingers finally grazed it. He is not sinless, but does that make such treatment acceptable? At the very least, you pity him and you admire him. Despite the taunting, he stands firmly with a tender heart. He's much stronger than you would ever be, a fellow doll in the gods' machinations but one that stumbled along the path of vengeance. Right. If you were he, you'd have long razed Liyue to the ground and thankfully, by some minuscule mercy, you are not. Instead, you are temporarily his will embodied: a silent promise, a marker of his ever-present power. You smooth a crease on your pale yellow dress. See, you even wore his colors; wore his jewelry like a close compatriot, you snort as Shenhe sprayed perfume as the final touch.

Truly, His Majesty was sometimes quite a theatrical man. A greatly amusing one at that.

Movement catches your attention from the corner of your eye. You still, observing Shenhe's face for any indication that she noticed anything amiss only to see her extreme focus on pressing down your baby hairs.

"Shenhe," you start, lightly pushing away her hand from your face before you stand from in front of your vanity. "Go down and prepare a carriage. I'll be off to the Imperial Palace in a bit."

She opens her mouth to ask something but opts to silently do as told instead. You wait until the door clicks shut and her footsteps recede before you walk out to the balcony. Sure enough, he was there.

"…What are you doing in my room in broad daylight?"

He chuckles slightly, adjusting his hood so it casts a darker shadow on his face. "To be fair, my lady, I'm not in your room."

"I'm screaming 'murder.'"

"Of all crimes to accuse me of, you choose the one that would have me killed?" His lips curve wider as he eyes your disinterested expression.

"I am too busy to play your games, Dhul-Qarnain." You make a move to walk back into your room but he quickly snatches your wrist, keeping you firm in your spot.

When did he get so close? You twist to face him once more only to find that bergamot spills into the air you breathe with each rise and pump of his chest. The ubiquitous smile on his lips widens at the sight of your widened eyes and really, how was it possible that he was so, so close? You could count each fiber of his blindfold at this proximity—feel the unthinkable glassiness of his caramel skin as your breath fans over his cheeks. You attempt to tug yourself from his hold but it only pushes him to lean over you and by the gods, he towers over you in the way he has an air to him that dominates.

He wets his lip as a hum murmurs from the back of his throat. "Now, where are you going, my lady? Hm?"

"To report you, of course. This treatment is a crime by itself," you blandly reply but you don't think he's buying your nonchalant demeanor with how he's so quick to snicker.

"Sure, put yourself in prison while you're at it. I'll meet you there. Modern romance."

You poke your tongue at your cheek. "And pray tell, what is my crime?"

It was a unique sort of waltz—the way he smoothly leads you to his rhythm with a large hand wrapped over your smaller one as the other sneakily cups the swell of your hips. It winds itself around your waist, taking advantage of your surprise to spin you around and corner you against the balcony's guardrail. The white plastered ornaments dig uncomfortably against your lower back but you push against it deeper, leaning back as his arms settle on the spaces beside you. Trapped, you couldn't do anything but peer at a blank sheet, deprived of the basic courtesy of the crinkle to match the thoroughly entertained curve on his plump lips.

"Being a naughty, naughty girl," he drawls as he taps at your nose twice teasingly before nimbly replacing his hand to trap you lest you take it as an opportunity to escape. "How come you're so quick to fall into another's arms? My mortal enemy of all people too!"

"…Are you out of your mind?" You almost sputtered as you gaped at him. Really, what is he saying? Try you might your best, you cannot grasp a singular sense to his words. What was he even hoping to achieve at this point?

"Hehe, fine…" He elongates his words to the point of it nearing a childish whine. "I'll hold my jest here but… I do think that yellow is not your color. Someday, I'd love to see that infamous blue gown in person or better yet, a new gown in a deep purple shade. Hm… Yes, I reckon that would suit my lady better…"

"Purple?" You quirk a brow.

He smirks as he finally places the appropriate space in between your bodies. "Fading into a lilac. My favorite colors."

Your head is beginning to throb again.

"Why are you truly here?" Your lips curl into a grimace as you retreat further away from him for good measure.

"Well, I did say I would visit…" The guild master cheekily crosses his legs before magically conjuring a bottle of fine wine from Mondstadt and presenting it to you, a reminder of your snarky reply once upon a time. "But more importantly, I so badly wanted a good night's rest and I just happen to be the man who can't sleep well knowing that there's an unfinished business somewhere past the horizon."

"You still have something to share?"

He shrugs. "Perhaps, perhaps not. What I am certain of is that the General's presence made it very hard to lay my heart bare to you then. That sight is for your eyes only."

"Do you have to have a salacious remark for every reply?" You sigh exasperatedly at the innocent hum he lets out in reply.

"I am a man of many things and most are schemes and lies. I do not deny that. That's just part of who I am. However…" He pauses. "Well, I suppose if there is a truth in all that has been spilled tonight, it'll be that Sir Zhongli is someone that I am not entirely fond of."

The curtain billows exactly on time, creating a natural suspense for his following words. Out of habit, your eyes trace over his features for any tells but there are none. His expression, while pleasant and smiling, was more polite than sincere. It's of the same kin as the smiles salesmen hand their customers or the ones you make when some stranger waves at you from across the room. It is a brainless activity; a movement from muscle memory and nothing more.

"I can guess what exactly made you, the Empire's most talented but frankly, laziest woman, agree to be an Emperor and I suppose I can't denounce Sir Zhongli's words either. They are truthful as they can be. It's just that… It'll do you best to remember that the line between consciously hidden truths and lies is not so grand after all."

"You do know that your words make you seem more suspicious than it does His Majesty, no?"

"Eh." He crosses his arms coolly. "Think of it as you wish. I just figured that I'd warn you as early as now so not a single blame can be placed on me. You see, I learned my lesson well. The nobility, while magnanimous, will always find someone to blame should things go awry. I'd hate to be that person again, is all."

"For the sake of this conversation, let's assume that I believe your words. What exactly drove you to doubt…no, distrust His Majesty to this degree?"

For a second, you think he wouldn't reply; that he would mischievously wiggle his fingers at you with his palm outstretched. In fact, the thought that he'd simply smile mysteriously before starting another topic as if nothing ever happened also crossed your mind. Yes, you thought of everything you could see him doing but in the end, none of it mattered. Nothing could've prepared you from receiving the downturn of his lips. The guild master glances away with a heavy intake of breath before he's slouching in defeat and toying with the tassel of the scarf hanging loosely around his shoulders.

"I'm from Sumeru, y'know?" You squint at the sudden show of his thick accent as if he's placing it in the open as evidence thereof. "I lived a relatively poor life there but the folks from the Akademiya would often come in caravans with books and supplies for people like me. Eh, some age old treaty between the ancient desert kings and the sages."

He clears his throat. "Anyway, I've learned a thing or two from the teachings of the Rtawahist and the Spantamad. Not enough to be a scholar myself but it helps when gathering information about almost occult-like phenomena. Back then, it was just me so even the smallest wisdom yields wonders."

"Wait." You raise a palm with a distrusting glare. "Why are you telling me this, Dhul-Qarnain? You don't strike me as the type to freely introduce yourself like so without plotting something."

"Who's to say this isn't my plot? What if the cogs have been shifting as we speak and by the end of this conversation, you'd find yourself working with me instead?" He casually replies, unbothered by your lack of trust as ever. Not like 'trust' had any intrinsic value in the first place.

"Working with you? On what?"

The guild master uncrosses his arms to gesture wildly at something. He looked more insane than anything else.

"You'll figure it out eventually. Now, where was I before I was oh so rudely interrupted? …Ah! Yes. My knowledge about this and that helped me gain a small piece of information that eventually became the catalyst to the Black Sun's sudden growth."

He stills and with him, so does the air and the insects and everything else.

"On August 31st last year, the fourth year under the Moraxian Calendar…" His tone drops an octave and you feel an immediate chill spurring the rise of goosebumps on your skin. "An unimaginable amount of mana burst from the Imperial Palace."

"I tried sneaking inside but I couldn't find anything but a fragment of a rune. This." He draws something on the air and you couldn't help but think that it looked somewhat familiar. Like you've seen in before somewhere ages ago and that the information had easily slipped into the recesses of your mind from everything that came up after. It's there. Somewhere. You just couldn't place a finger to it.

"I don't know what it means, really. All I know is that after the explosion, the leylines, the world's 'soul' hasn't been the same, and things that should never have come to pass, started happening."

You stay silent.

"I haven't a clue about this beyond that which has been said. However, the Palace's silence despite the Akademiya's diplomatic inquiries is… suspicious at best. Rumor has it that it was His Majesty who demanded the gag order."

You remain silent and this time, he takes it as you taking offense at his suspicions. The guild master immediately plasters a smile on his face as he raises both his hands in the air. "…Then again, what do I know. I'm just a poor, nobody underworlder."

At his words, you snap out of it just in time to click your tongue. "You have a million mora vase in your temporary office. You're not fooling anyone."

He snickers but ultimately stands upright. You feel his gaze on your form for a few seconds before he's speaking again. "There are many ways to be poor. I'd love to preach about spirituality but I'm afraid our time for today has run out. May we meet again, Lady Feiyun. I truly enjoy speaking with you and while you might doubt my intentions, know that I am at least honest in this regard."

You open your mouth to comment about his dangerous fondness but before you could, he leans back to free fall out of the balcony's ledges. It was instinctive to almost trip over your feet in your rush as you push your torso over the ledge to catch what had happened. Thankfully (or not who knows), there was no body so he had to be alive. At least, you don't think it'd take a mere fall to kill one of the most… unbelievable men alive.

At the thought, your muscles decompress and you finally release a breath you didn't know you were holding. Never mind the pesky guild master… August 31st was exactly five months before your 'death' and more importantly… It was the day the events of your previous life came to you.

"My lady? The carriage is ready." Shenhe parts the curtain to curiously look at your unmoving form. "…Is something wrong?"

Just what in the world…

"Nothing. Let's go."

Despite being officially named regent, your father had opted to take the same seat he took the last time you were in this room instead of the one at the head of the table. Meanwhile, you took the seat beside him, your brother being absent from the meeting as he settled into the role of being the Acting Duke of Feiyun. The unprecedented circumstance left the larger lot of you scrambling for some normalcy. Never before has there been such a large vacuum in Liyuen politics and the uncertainty of the situation has left insurrection knocking right on your doors and international instability having tea in your back garden.

Suffice to say, it was a mess—much alike what is happening before you. You think you'd bore a hole through the wooden table from how it became the sole subject of your focus. Nothing else was worth your attention in this decrepit hall, not the melted wax on the candelabra, not the dust flitting in the air, and certainly not the childish, inconsequential quarrel of these old simpletons.

You hated this with a passion. However did His Majesty survive each day of his life surrounded by these horrendous men? Your throat feels dry and itchy from the lack of alcoholic content required to survive another minute among these featherless bipeds because no, they do not deserve to be associated with the barest minimum of intellect expected of a human and you are not so cruel to loop animals with them when they're so clearly just savages without purpose.

"Good heavens…" Your father grumbles under his breath as Duke So grabs Duke Han by his robe's collar.

"Y-you—! You cretin! How dare you speak to me so loose-tongued!? You are sixty years too young to speak to me as if we stand on the same stature!"

"Well old, stiff dogs like you should retire early lest you pollute this room with your aged reek!"

"Oh my god…" You scrunch your face in disgust as Duke Tian, who had been mediating the squabble, ducked to avoid the particles of saliva that flew when Duke So squawked indignantly at Duke Han's creative use of words.

You move your gaze away from the two, appalled and… really, you lack the words to describe the extreme cloud over your head from everything that was transpiring. Truly, most honestly, you hated this. Crossing your arms to accentuate your scowl, you turn your head just in time to see General Alatus scratch at his brow with the same distorted expression on his face. The small snicker you let out couldn't be stopped even if you tried and he could only roll his eyes at the hidden taunt behind your eyes. At that, you sneakily stuck your tongue out and ever so easy to annoy, Alatus fixes his posture and makes it a point to avoid acknowledging your existence. Now, you might not be a mind reader but you're sure that he's hoping in his mind that you'll just suddenly disappear from his sight if he pretended you're not there for long enough.

Well, unfortunately for the both of you, it won't be happening anytime soon.

You sigh, relaxing your muscles before turning to the Duke who was now blankly staring at the clock's hands that moved with a soft clack, clack, clack as each second trickled by. "Not stopping them?"

"What for?" He replies almost instantly.

A noise dies down in the back of your throat. "It'll be difficult to quell political unrest if it goes on for too long."

"The only one who is at an immediate state of unrest is me. Remind me, why am I situated in this godforsaken position?"

You snort at the irritated press of his lips. With how hectic things have been, perhaps you have forgotten that you take after your father and your father hates, despises, no, loathes the idea of having more responsibility than what is beneficial. For instance, what can you gain from being an Emperor that you could not gain by being a Duke? Mind-numbing migraines, are what.

"Heh, I suppose the gods must be rejoicing now. Whenever will they see the Duke pray with more intensity than now? And for someone else, no less."

"I understand your jest, daughter, but must I remind you that we're both to die in this hole shall His Majesty fail to come back in forty days? Just in case, perhaps it'll be good for you to start training yourself for what will be your norm. Why don't you silence those… imbeciles for the sake of world peace?"

"Now, why would I do that?"

This time, it's the Duke who snorts. "As far as I can recall, His Majesty has instructed you to handle domestic affairs."

Ah.

Distaste paints your expression once more as you sulk, one hand propping your head up as you eye the situation from your peripheral view. By now, the verbal fight has escalated into an attempt to punch each other. The younger counts held back the disheveled dukes whose finely pressed silk garments were now crumpled and in disarray. You can hear them growling curses at each other and were you mysteriously transported by magic into the wilds sometime between?

"So unsightly…" You murmur. You hate such unattractive sights with a passion and what can you do when something displeases you? "Your Majesty… Wherever you are, I hope you'll forgive me for what I am about to do. Or not. You should've known that I am so easily driven into madness."

You can't help it. You must remove them at once.

The Duke watches you warily as you began chuckling darkly from the corner of his eyes. For a second, he is wrought by concern but as he draws his gaze up and sees Duke So land a glob of spit directly in between Duke Han's eyes… Oh well, they had it coming. It's not like he has enough time to worry over others when Snezhnayan troops were beginning to advance towards Inazuman waters. The deposition of His Majesty had painted a grand opportunity for the enemy and it was critical that he wins the next battle to establish that despite having no Emperor seated, Liyue would not fall. Ah, but he supposes he can show some sliver of sympathy for the rest of the aristocracy. It appears that a storm was about to run them to the ground.

Oh, well… The Duke sips at his tea just as you motioned for Ganyu to lean closer to you.

Sometimes, it was nice to be alone. It was especially nice to be alone inside the Imperial Palace.

The corridors were empty, as always, but compared to when His Majesty governed over it, there was now the afterimage of fear in every servants' hearts. Would they be kicked out? Would they be caught in the crossfire of a political takeover? Would they be killed like their predecessors who happened to be at the wrong place and at the wrong time? You reckon that their heads must be heavy with such questions. Frankly, no one can guarantee anyone's safety anymore. The next forty days would be hellish—noblemen plotting behind the curtains to grab the unprotected throne while the civilians are manning their own revolt under the skilled persuasion of the so-called prophets.

The way you sighed for the nth time felt like its own kind of period on an increasingly long sentence—one that was pressed too harshly on parchment, making ink bleed into the page; eerily similar to the echo of your slow heartbeat and puffs of air as the hallway extended infinitely in both ends from where you stood. It is devouring. You feel a little creeped out by how silent the Palace was. It's always the calm before the storm that's the scariest.

Heavy is the head the that wears a crown.

You glance at the floor-length window that overlooked the courtyard. General Alatus has requested for permission to use it right before you left the meeting room. You waved him off, telling him to do whatever he wanted, only to realize that perhaps you should've asked what it was for. One floor below you, soldiers lined up in neat rows and columns as they stood at attention. Their weapons were held with one hand as they stared unflinchingly at the towering walls of vibrant bushes that separated the Palace from the sight of everyone else.

How should you put it… It's quite lonely? You try to imagine what it would be like to be a princess in these halls. Surrounded by people yet, so far in distance in measures that matter. The isolation is suffocating and in some ways, this elaborate glass castle felt no different from the grimy basement prison cells.

"My lady?" You flinch, turning sharply to meet Ganyu's concerned gaze.

"H-How long have you been there?"

She smiles apologetically. "A while. I was unsure if I should interrupt you. You looked…"

You avert your gaze with a deep breath. "It's nothing."

"Of course." She purses her lips. "But if I may speak out of order, the Palace is such a place where thinking too deeply would deal you with more vexing cards. Please try to take it easy and leave the rest to us."

"…I will do just that."

You clear your throat.

"What of what I asked of you?"

"Sir Alhaitham has arrived and is waiting for you in the drawing room."

"I see. Lead the way."

"As you wish. Please—" Ganyu presses her palm to her chest before smoothly gesturing to the direction from where you once came from. From the corner of your eye, you see the soldiers salute as the crimson red cape of the General waved like an ominous banner against the wind. His face was blank but fierce as he trudged the opposite way from where you are going.

You took a sharp breath, willing yourself to be firm. To forget and remember all at once that the lives of a few million people were in your hands; that with a single word, you could damn everyone to their tragic deaths.

There were two ways to pursue the best interests of the country. You could be sly with it—persuasive, cunning, and diplomatic—or you could be aggressive—coercive, rather. You'd rather not be written off as a bloody regent in history books if you could but with how things were blowing…

You truly pray for His Majesty's success.

By now, he's probably outside of Liyue's borders as ordered by the Court. No, with how things were going, he probably already met up with Baron Trifolium who would be hosting him in his Tower while they investigated the prophesies and the black skies together. Dragonsbane, too, but that was quite far below in the list of priorities for the time being.

The heavy doors part with a rumbling grate as Ganyu pushed them. Just then, you meet Alhaitham's eyes—twinkling under the chandelier diamonds with a subtle curiosity. He stands up, throws a glance at Ganyu's odd stare, before inclining his head in your direction.

"Your Ladyship." His gravelly voice greets you blandly. At the receiving end of his out of character respect, you awkwardly stood there for a second before nodding.

"Sir Alhaitham. Thank you for making the time to meet me." You traverse the gap between you two in the wide room and circled around to situate yourself on the obnoxious seat reserved for the monarchs. "Miss Ganyu, please assist Duke Tian with the reform I asked him to look into."

"Excuse me?" Ganyu sputters but you raise a hand before she can utter a word of defense.

"I trust you because His Majesty trusts you." You smile half-heartedly. "So I'm entrusting that end of the plan to you. None of the fruits of my discussion with our guest today will serve any purpose if we are unable to direct the law's favor to our will."

"But I'm—"

"You are my trusted secretary. Please see through my—our—will."

It feels a little gross to acquaint your ambition with that of the Emperor's with that kind of propinquity.

Ganyu hesitates for a while longer before nodding and dismissing herself. Heh, at least His Majesty's secretary was in the right headspace. Trusting you was a risk. Did he not know that? Even now, you can't understand why he chose you of all people.

As the doors shut close once more, you finally relax—slouching with a groan and accepting the glass of juice Alhaitham had handed to you wordlessly.

"It's insane here!" You whine, feet pattering on the ground as you nearly threw your body against the plush throw pillows on the couch Alhaitham was prettily sitting at with the nonchalance you desire you had.

"I imagine so."

You recount the events of the meeting with an exaggerated sway of your arms and Alhaitham only hums here and there as he skimmed through some of the paperwork you had to deal with.

"Hey, are you even listening?!"

He licks at his lip before flipping to the next page. "No."

"Haitham!" You groan, misery painted on your features like a portrait of a mistress from the golden ages. At your dramatics, he breathes out a sigh, tossing the papers to the coffee table before eyeing you disinterestedly from the corner of his eyes.

"What do you intend to do, then?"

"Well…" You sit up with a thoughtful hum, haphazardly fixing your hair as you watch a candle flame flicker. "My most urgent task is to reduce the influence and power of the aristocracy in order to hinder their claim to the throne and weaken the Palace's political rivals."

"Easier said than done. It's not like they will just sit back and take the hits without doing anything."

"Yes, so I was thinking: 'what strategy will make it so that the aristocracy will be unable to realize what is happening until it is too late?' and if not that, at the very least, 'what will make them unable to do anything even if they realize my ploy?'"

"Did you find an answer?"

You hissed through your teeth, a hesitant expression crossing your features as you look at him. "The people."

"Hm?" He motions for you to elaborate and squirmed in your seat before crossing your legs and arms in deep thought.

"They can't question any move meant to increase the quality of life of the people. If they do, they'll risk being at the receiving end of their anger and you know how ferocious they are at the moment."

"Improving the quality of life of the people… Using them as a shield to prevent outright attempts to question the regency and its upcoming legitimization… It's not a bad idea… But how do you plan to go about it while weakening the nobility in the process?"

You part your lips before sighing, folding your hands together. "The bureaucracy."

"Pardon?" This time, Alhaitham was unable to hide the furrow in his brows.

"Create new government posts, integrate middleclass citizens into civic posts, and have them climb to higher offices."

He narrows his eyes. "You do realize that you are weakening the nobles' hold on the Empire with that, including your and your family's, right?"

"…I thought about it." You murmur with a scrunch on your face. "But I am acting on behalf of His Majesty at the present, not my family. We'll figure it out when it's over but right now, Liyue cannot fall no matter what. Without Liyue, there would be no Feiyun to even think about."

"Huh…" Alhaitham eyes you warily and you mirror it.

"What?"

"Nothing. I'm assuming you plan to use the examination system to do that?"

You peer at him through your lashes. "How did you know?"

"His Majesty—" He pauses. "Zhongli once requested resources from the House of Daena [1] about it. I suspect that he wished to implement something similar to your plan. Though perhaps, to a lesser proportion and for more humanitarian purposes."

"Is that right…?" You blink. "Well, if there was one thing I learned about Liyue recently, it's that not everyone is stupid or untalented. The underground, particularly… So many of them are capable of many things but are unable to make anything of it because of the lack of opportunity."

He stares at you unnervingly as you recall the stall owner and General Alatus' words. Finally, you realize you've trailed off and shook your head. "It's nothing. I suppose I'm just… Sympathetic."

"You?"

You roll your eyes and pushed him lightly. "Don't use that tone with me."

"Fine. Let's say that everything goes as you wanted. Ordinary scholars will ascend to the positions previously held only by the nobility. You'll make a show of removing the corrupt aristocrats. The people would favor you for hearing them out and the scholars will protect you to ensure that the next rulers won't remove them from their posts. It's a brilliant move but…"

"First of all, please don't use 'you.' I hate the implications of a long reign." You shudder. "Second, you're worried about the aristocracy, right? 'You can't please both sides' as Yanfei says."

At his non-reply, you continue. "I'll show them."

"Show what?"

You snicker. "That this once, being a woman is a blessing."

Notes:

[1] — The House of Daena is a shared public resource in Teyvat. It is the largest library in the continent and is located in Sumeru's rainforest region. While many scholars from all over the world archive their works by sending a copy to the House of Daena, its quickly expanding literature can be attributed to the efforts of the graduating students enrolled in the Akademiya.

Chapter 17: SHÍ SÌ — EMERGING CANDOR, RECEDING GUILE.

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

A good person is tender, selfless and thoughtful of others—they're kind. They'll shoot themselves in the foot for the price of a small 'thank you' or less, and they'll sacrifice all sorts of things in obviously horrible bargains. You aren't a good person. You are, however, just a smidge bit disappointed that being a good person has some pretty good benefits that make you reconsider just a little bit Thankfully, you are a good liar: a very good bad person. It was easy enough to pretend that you're a good person; especially when the people in front of you desperately want to reach out to a charitable savior.

You wished it was a bit more difficult to wear the flesh of an omnipotent messiah. You wished it felt icky to pretend that you're someone you're not. Alas, avarice is a tough opponent, and so was the contemporary gold in your hands. Was there a greater source of information than gossip-mongers? Truly, you have to applaud them for their creativity sometimes but more importantly, no matter how discombobulated a story can become by the time it reaches your ears, there has to be some semblance of truth to it. After all, what is a better feast than a glimpse at the forbidden? You doubt these servants are talented enough to pull such feats from nowhere but their own imaginations.

Under the guise of helping to keep your father sane, you have been staying at the Imperial Palace—specifically, in the Princess' chambers. Ganyu was quick to offer the Empress' quarters but you were quicker to refuse. The gossip mill was fast churning, and while you'd long given up on not being its subject at all, you'd rather keep your appearance few and far between. What's important is this:

"My lady!" A servant bursts through the doors at exactly seven in the morning. On her young face was a massive pout as she places the wash basin on the floor with a harrumph. "You will not believe what Countess Liang said at the tea party!"

You quirk an eyebrow, feigning a curious raise of brows in front of the mirror. "Oh? What happened?"

"Now, see, I heard this from a friend of mine who was one of the Countess' maids. As she was busy serving tea in Her Ladyship's garden, she was able to hear some here and there! Turns out—" She leans closer, dropping her voice to a conspiring volume as she hides her mouth with wide-eyes—"the Count is very unhappy with Duke Tian's proposed reform and is rallying fellow aristocrats behind his back to push the bill back. In fact, the Countess' guests at the tea party were all wives of his allies."

"Is that right…?" The corners of your lips raised slyly as you tenderly cupped the maid's cheeks. "Now, that won't do, won't it?"

She nods vigorously before leaning into your palm. "The nerve of them, truly! How can they dismiss such a good change just because it reduces their advantage by a minuscule amount! It's not like His Grace was asking for them to forfeit all their riches for our sakes!"

You hum in agreement. "It's a shame that they are too narrowminded and self-serving to consider everyone's well-being…"

The maid sighs deeply before suddenly, standing at attention. She blinks at you through her lashes and begins to butter you up. "Not everyone can be as generous as Lady Feiyun," she says, "Your magnanimous heart cannot compare to anyone else," she adds.

You couldn't help but chuckle under your breath at her hard work. Perhaps it wouldn't be so bad to play along with her "cunning" once in a while… The lock to your jewelry box clicks open with a small noise to reveal a new set of jewelry from a noble family who was trying to earn your father's favor through you. It's subpar in quality so it wasn't quite a waste; in all honesty, you were wondering how to dispose of it. Your fingers hovered over the pieces on purpose, enjoying the tiny thrill of teasing the greedy sparkle out of your maid's eyes.

"Here." You settle on an emerald brooch: round-cut on silver work and small pearl embellishments. It's a little hideous but you don't believe that it matters as the maid's shaky hands receive your gift and your demeaning adoring pats. "I don't have much power to change the course of all my constituents' lives but…" You pause for added suspense, your sweet smile showing the faintest shadows of wickedness. "I'm sure you were quite upset with Countess Liang after hearing all of this. I do not wish for you to believe that we are doing nothing for the people but it's proving to be quite difficult, as you can see. I hope that this would do for now. I heard from the other maids that your little sister is sick so..."

The maid tears up slightly as you push the hand clasping the brooch encouragingly to her chest. She falls into a furious relay of bows and gratitude and finally, you leaned back to your seat with a puff of your chest as you eyed the curious scenario in front of you.

There are a few things you have to keep in mind when selecting unwitting servant-informants. One, they have to be young. The young ones are dreamers—naïve, gullible, and most importantly, ambitious. They're less likely to realize they're being played and even if they do, they'll stick around to reap the rewards. That's another thing. They have to be like-minded to some degree. Cunning, but not more cunning than you are, manipulative but not less obvious than you are. Third, they have to be loose-lipped to a select few only. It'll spell trouble if they simply went and talked about your "generosity" with everyone but it'll also be trouble if you can't grow your network. Thus, they have to be smart but not too smart. Lastly, it's more advantageous if they were women. While Liyue was more progressive than some of the nations in Teyvat when it comes to the women's roles, the unfortunate reality is that it still leans patriarchal. The silver lining is that you can use it to your advantage this time around. Only women can stick close to the wives and daughters of noblemen as handmaidens and maids and the wives and daughters of noblemen either tag along when doing business or are often forced into being listeners to the noblemen's rants—thus becoming the most accessible source of insider information in high society.

Fiddle around for a bit and you now have an arsenal of sources who can provide you information on the nobility's movements while also keeping track of the public's response to your actions. See? Two birds with one very materialistic stone.

Just your kind of people.

"Please help me brush my hair." You draw your hand away as you divert you gaze back to the mirror. "Then call in Miss Ganyu. I would like to have a word with her."

"Of course, my lady."

And perhaps you should've made it clearer that you would like to proceed onwards with silence as she immediately begins rattling your ears off with her high-pitched voice. It doesn't help that they were useless stories too. It made it even more difficult to press a welcoming smile on your face—the burn on your cheeks more evident without the distraction of something else.

With Shenhe, you never have to worry about your handmaiden missing your cues. Who would have thought that she would suddenly ask for a leave to take care of Chongyun who fell ill? And with Hu Tao off investigating the prophets, you were left alone with the Palace maids and their noise.

See? It wasn't so worth it to be good in the end.

The hillside peeks from the distance clad in a verdant quilt and flowering coat. It was a pretty sight—you'll give it that. Compared to the Harbor and the other cities you've ventured in, the rural lands bear a resemblance to the preserved gardens of the Ministry of Culture; only that the majesty you're bearing witness to was all natural and provided by the lands that earthed you. Given your stature and duties, you rarely find yourself anywhere close to the vicinity of the provinces. Perhaps it is this unfamiliarity that beckons a sense of wonder in the depths of yourself. The trees that shelter you from the light of the bright sun are older than you whilst the fresh air you breathe carry stories that are far beyond you. At the face of all this and the untold more, you feel not so quintessential and that is oddly relieving.

You've said it before and you'll say it again: the future is a privilege. Anytime, anywhere, it can be snatched from your hands, and if you want to see a semblance of it coming into fruition, you can't afford to daydream about the endless possibilities of your life in the present. Once, it was the looming blade of a guillotine that made you squirm and now, it is something grander—a conspiracy you can't begin to wrap your head around that has its own cruel history tied to it. A history, mind you, that predates the time of man. When piecing apart that premise, how can you dare rest your troubled mind? You are but a measly human in front of the tight jaws of dragons, the uncaring eyes of gods, and the merciless plan of the wronged. That has its way of making you small and to be small is to be easily trampled upon and to be trampled upon is to be weak, ignorant, pathetic. It is wrong. More than, even, when you are a Feiyun.

Still, if you will have this privilege just this once, you'd like to think that your future is like so. You'll build a quaint house by the hillside and far, far away from the plagues of city life. It won't be a small home but it won't be a mansion either. There is nothing lonelier than a house unfilled by laughter and shared woes. You'd like a wide backyard to house a small pond for the koi and a small garden for your roses. Above the sliding door that would lead to it is a glass windchime that would sing a high melody of quiet cheer—a memory of triumph over these impossible machinations that you'll recall with a bittersweet laugh over equally bittersweet summer tea. You'd like it if your brothers visit with your favorite cake from the pastry shop in the Administrative District that you'll surely miss so that you'll have something to wash away your memories. You'd love it if your mother came around and chastised you for being too slow to catch onto her embroidering tricks again instead of your reckless chess moves of today. When your father retires, maybe he'll stay over for a few days and nights, and he'll whisper secret recipes from your late grandmother as you dance around the kitchen because the gods know he can't cook and you can't either when you're too busy laughing at his child-like mishaps.

Your eyes flutter close out of instinct. In the city, fine dust makes your eyes water with each breeze. It's probably not a source of concern here in the outskirts and only then does it truly sink in that living in the Liyue Empire—complete with its crab-like push and pull and its heartless chaos—is tiring. If everything blows over and you miraculously survive like you wish to, you'd love to live somewhere far, far away for the briefest opportunity to breathe and not be a Feiyun.

But when have your wishes truly became actualized in fate's tale?

"My lady?" You automatically fix the heavy slouch of your back at the entrance of a familiar figure. "Am I interrupting you?"

"No, I was just lost in thought."

Yun Jin frowns at your unconvincing smile but opts not to question any further. Instead, she gestures to the unfamiliar woman by her side. She looked relatively young; dark hair pinned into a low bun instead of falling loosely onto her blush-colored dress that's just a few inches too short and a few wears too worn. "This is Qing'er, the owner of this house. Her husband is one of the beneficiaries of Feiyun's newest medical program."

You hum in acknowledgement as the woman bows with a few words of repeated gratitude. Really, Yun Jin's euphemism was a few words too long to say that the woman's husband was a recovering addict from Orobaxi.

"Is your husband faring well now?" You couldn't help but ask and the woman flinches subtly. Well, you did look disinterested. You wouldn't blame her if she didn't expect the inquiry.

"Y-Yes, my lady… The doctors said that he'll be recovering after a few more dosages of the counteracting regent but…"

A faraway look glazes over her eyes and taking pity on her, Yun Jin is the one to continue. "It will take a long while before he recovers fully, my lady. Even now, he is unable to do much on his own, much less till the fields."

"Is he here now?" You cast a brief glance at the closed door before diverting your gaze back to the pair.

"A-Ah, that's…" Qing'er's lips shake and she quickly hides it with her worked hand, discretely wiping away at the quickly forming tears on her waterline. "He's working today, my lady. I'm afraid you won't be able to catch him."

"Working? But does he not need ample rest? I know little of medicine but I do recall that for the medicine to take effect, he'll need to limit physical activity."

You and Yun Jin share a look as the woman musters up a quick, fake smile. "Well, I had just given birth, you see. We cannot afford to lack income now of all times and… my husband is a stubborn man. He holds himself at fault and is decided on finding the solution to our problems himself."

"Qing'er's husband has an old friend in the Industrial Zone who managed to talk his boss into taking in a few new employees. Most of the work there are machinated so it's not as labor intensive as agriculture work, my lady. Please don't worry."

'In the face of hunger, aren't we all equals?' Those were Xingqiu's words long ago when Liyue encountered a food shortage after farmers protested against the ungodly taxation they had to face. The corners of your lips quirked up melancholically at the memory. In your enlightened mind, you can say with certainty that he's not wrong. Despite not reaching the same plight quite yet, it is true that the statistics that found its way to Feiyun's hands show that food supply has some significant decrease compared to previous years. Out of nowhere, you remember the people's march: how sickly and thin and dirty they looked as they clamored in front of the Chancery. Your eyebrows pinch, fingers picking at the skin around your nails as you sink deeper in reminiscence.

"Still, it doesn't sit well with me that victims of Orobaxi are out working." 'And that they are causing a problem with labor migration,' is left unsaid.

Unaware of your more pragmatic thoughts, Qing'er looks up at you with a newfound admiring gleam in her eyes. "You are much too kind, my lady. Please do not worry. We are strong people. There is no problem we cannot overcome together."

Hm... You smile back at her as an idea flashes in your mind. It's not bad to consider agrarian reform as an economic solution to the problem of stabilizing the Empire. While it is true that your plan with Duke Tian had stirred most of the public's opinion of the regency on a positive light, there are still some who are placing it under careful scrutiny. The economic after-effects of Orobaxi, while invisible to the naked eye, is one of the most pressing concerns of the Empire as of late, and it's one of the issues that the public wants a quick solution to. In that case, an agrarian reform is a safe bet. It's not too radical that it will meet as much contention as the governmental reform, and it's beneficial for the aristocracy, the peasants, and the Palace all in one.

Once there is enough supply, the ministers can consider increasing exports with Natlan and Mondstadt who are both relying on foreign goods to supply their citizens with food during the dry, chilly season. Later, when the Empire has reached a good enough equilibrium, it can even reduce local taxation temporarily to give the commonfolk more breathing room to recover and regain their support.

Yes… This would work… You smile brightly, flashing all your pearly whites as if the final pieces of a long puzzle fell into place. "Let's bring this up with the Yuheng when we meet with the ladies later, Countess Yun."

"Qing'er," she holds her hands in between hers as she mirrors your expression after catching your drift, "the Yuheng manages all agricultural concerns of the Empire. I'm sure she'll be able to think of a way to help you after learning of your plight."

"I heard Duke Han and the Yuheng have been in correspondence recently. If what I assume is true, then they've long partnered up to improve the agricultural practices here. If so, then hastening the process shouldn't be too difficult."

Qing'er tried to stop it, you'll give her credit, but in the end, she ends up bawling on the muddy floor as she sobbed out words you can't quite comprehend. It was Countess Yun who attempts to console her yet, it was you whom she thanked so dearly. You tear your gaze from them, eyeing the way the blue bled and rolled into the horizon instead. Paired with the far away gush of the river, it painted the illusion of drowning in the big, blue sea. Conscience would look and sound like this, you think to yourself as you easily showed her a good person's elated grin at the feel of her rough palms on the hem of your skirt.

A sharp cry breaks your brief interaction and Qing'er mutters a word of apology before scurrying to tend to her newborn child. That leaves you patting your chest, exactly at the spot above your heart. It beats rhythmically under your touch but…

"There is nothing," you mutter to yourself.

Conscience would look and sound like this, you think to yourself, but you have none, you follow up. A good person would not think about their own ends instead of the beneficiaries' when using such generous means. It's bewildering—and really, you feel a little bad about yourself over this—but in the end, you really didn't think much of their predicament until you could use it to your advantage.

"Speaking of, my lady… Why did you suddenly want to meet with the ladies of the Empire?" Countess Yun clears her throat before speaking. "Forgive me if I offend you with this though I mean no ill but you have never hosted tea parties before unless they're to… um… gloat."

You wave her off. "It'll be nice if I can convince them of their support, is all." You blink before sheepishly clarifying after realizing that she was not with you when you consulted your brother and father about this matter. "As you know, we've been working very hard to stabilize the Empire but all of that if for naught if we cannot remove what is destabilizing it as soon as possible."

"Do you mean the prophets? But did you not ask Hu Tao to investigate this matter already?"

You shoot her a quick smile as she pours you a cup of tea that Qing'er brought with her from the neighbor's house earlier. "That is one way to do it, of course. But we cannot kill precious time for proof of their falsehood when we are yet to be certain that it even exists. Instead, we should try to weaken their influence as soon as possible and with all means possible."

"…I apologize but I don't quite follow. How do you intend to do so?" You choose not to take offense at his apparent lack of faith in you as Yun Jin frowns deeply. They do say that distrust is contagious and your older brother is so very afflicted with it when it comes to matters that involve you interacting with other people.

"I read a novel— Well, Haitham read me a novel a while back, and I remembered a line that struck a chord in me. 'Only a god can kill a god.'" You pause to recollect yourself before continuing. "The monks from Jueyun Karst have made their stance clear about the prophets when they came down to defend His Majesty. If we can revitalize their following, surely, they'll preach against their claims."

"Huh… I suppose in theory, that makes sense. Religious followings always mirror their leaders' perspectives one way or another. However, the monks' isolation from the public has made belief in them weak." She worries her lower lip.

"I am aware that religion, in its entirety, has been on the back of the people's minds ever since Liyue began seeing great progress and a myriad of opportunities, and to that, I argue that all religions were unsung before they were revered. It is not too hard to believe if I were to say that the very first followers of each religion were ridiculed first for their preaching before they ever began garnering respect through various means. Faith is no different from a trend, and I happen to know how to manufacture trends."

"Trends…" Yun Jin repeats with a whisper before her eyes widened like saucers. "Ah! Do you intend to popularize Karstian theology once more by making use of the noblewomen?"

You couldn't help but giggle sickeningly sweet. "My dear sister-in-law is indeed very quick-witted! Yes, that is what I intend to do. The nobility's actions define their class and their servants instinctively copy them to elevate theirs. From there, their friends, families, acquaintances will follow until the prophesies are buried on the grounds of heresy."

"Still, I must say that I did not think that you would willingly deal with the religious sector, my lady…"

"Mutual benefit does not equate to blind faith." You reply nonchalantly. "It's a good thing to earn the monks' support as early as now. It'll make the transfer of power more efficient when the time comes."

The Countess' smile fills with pity. "Is that still one of your concerns?"

"Mhm… I cannot do too well lest the people never want me to leave but I cannot do too poorly either lest they kick me out prematurely. Such a bother, really..."

"Oh, but… Would the nobleladies help you? The aristocracy is not so fond of you—well, to their knowledge, your father's 'extreme' reforms…"

"Everyone wants a cut of the strong's pie. They'll come around." You smile wickedly. "I am feeling rather generous, after all… I shall help them this time around."

The Countess' confused look makes a comeback.

"Marriage, darling."

"Hm?" Yun Jin smiles dazedly. "Have you found a suitable marriage partner? Is it perhaps His Majesty? Ah, but that would not help right now… Perhaps not him but instead, Emperor Kunikuzushi? Or even Ambassador Kamisato?"

"…What are you saying?" You squint.

"Oh… Is it not that…? Then again, I am sure that many would be upset if you married so suddenly. Sir Alhaitham and the Baron, for example…"

You huff exasperatedly. "Not my marriage! Why would I marry now of all times?! And also, why are you spouting random names?!"

"They're not random though…?" She mumbles to herself.

For Yun Jin's sake, you will yourself to calm down with a few breaths.

"Listen. What I meant was that I will help the ladies find suitable marriage prospects. I am a Feiyun, after all. I am rather well-connected. Since the Empire is relatively unstable as of late, their fathers are probably looking outside of Liyue to gain more power. If I help them in this regard, some favor is bound to be earned, and while it would not please all of the aristocracy, it'll be something I can use to control them." You chuckle. "Marriage is a two-way street after all… It is not the wife alone who must pay me their gratitude…"

"Ah, then… I pray that all will end well for you, my lady." The Countess comforts as she wraps her hands around the warm clay cup. "On a different note, are you going through with your visit? I saw Miss Ganyu earlier while fetching you from the Palace but I was unable to ask her myself."

You huff, blowing a stray piece of your hair in the process. "It'll be good for Father's image so I should. If I do well enough, maybe we can convince them that the Palace is honest with the promise of being more transparent."

"You must be tired, my lady… You have been running around and making appearances in all sorts of places to solidify your image as the 'People's Princess.'"

The expression you donned faltered as you hear her words. "Yes, it is quite exhausting… I reckon it would have been much less of a daunting task had this role been fulfilled by someone already adored by the people like Xingqiu, no?"

"My lady..." Countess Yun reaches for your hands but you shake your head reassuringly.

"I am fine." The creases on your dress flattened as you ran your hands over them before you stood up. You offer a hand to help Yun Jin up as well before taking a few steps away from the house. "Say farewell to Qing'er for me but do not take long. I will be waiting in the carriage."

You turn around before abruptly remembering something. "Countess Yun."

"Oh! Yes?" An encouraging smile curves her lips.

"Was Alhaitham around the manor last night when you came over?"

Countess Yun thinks for a moment before shaking her head. "I do not believe so but last I heard of him was ereyesterday. He told me that he has been finalizing the proposed examination curriculum for the new official recruitment policy with Duke Tian."

"Is that so?" You sigh before turning on your heel. "If you ever pass him by, can you give him a message for me? Tell him to drop by to see me in the Palace as soon as he is free. I have an urgent question for him."

There was a brief moment of insanity wherein your hand brushed over a lilac colored dress before you snapped out of it and chose an obnoxiously bright yellow dress. It's ugly, truly: it had ruffles and fluff underneath and ribbons everywhere, even in your hair! You looked ridiculous—like the ghost of childhood threw up over you and had you parade around like a mad jester. Unfortunately, Ganyu had advised you to look… approachable. Bright, eye-catching colors, fairy tale-like layers, and just about every other monstrosity that could stem from a child's imagination of what true aristocracy is like. At that, or rather, at the prospect of looking like you knew how to handle children as well as you do (your mother unfortunately did not serve as good reference material—not when she made children cry with a look alone), you managed to hide your disdain from your features. You were even able to throw in a prayer of gratitude to your biological parents. Because of your inherited features, you were able to pull off even this hideous attire.

Snapping out of your thoughts, you accepted the help offered by the soldier as you dismounted the carriage. What greeted you was a rather ordinary looking house. Had it been located in Yujing Terrace, it would've looked like any other home owned by a middleclass family—one that had a business or two that produced enough profit to allow them to live in more high-end residences compared to other commoners. It is gated with bricks and a wooden entryway with a stone path leading to the entrance of the home. Your soldiers escorted you that far and you dallied around, smiling and waving at the citizens who were peering curiously from outside and the handful of journalists who were allowed inside the patio. You did try to look at them a little less, however, as they may become suspicious of your intentions. While they might be true, some truths are better left implied than outright pronounced.

You turn back to the doorway, tugging at the red ribbon that connected to a small bell hooked on the side. It makes a shrill noise and you count exactly seven seconds before the door slides open to reveal an elderly woman with a warm smile on her wrinkled face.

"My lady… Welcome—" She starts to curtsy but you clutch her hands in yours with a small shake of your head.

"There is no need, Madam Qiao. Please…" You glance at the soldier beside you who quickly takes cue and helps the woman stand upright. "There is truly no need for such formalities. Not when you have and are doing so much for our beloved Empire."

"Nonsense! If it is not because of your family's generosity, my lady, this orphanage would have long perished from existence. What then of the children?"

"Haiya… It is very difficult to outflatter someone with as much experience as you." You share a giggle with her and the onlookers close by who were listening on the exchange.

"At least we are on the same page… Ah… And this is?" You turn your head to the side before gesturing for him to move closer to you for introductions.

"This is Baron Albedo Trifolium, a good friend of mine. He is a guest of the Palace and I thought to bring him along when I learned of his volunteerism back in the Kingdom of Mondstadt. I hope we are not troubling you."

"Greetings, Madam. It is a pleasure to meet you. Forgive me for not sending word before appearing on your doorstep."

The elderly woman makes a sharp noise of disproval before taking his hands in hers. "You youngsters love to speak nonsense! Everyone is welcome here, guest from afar and familiar faces alike. I am sure the children would love to be acquainted with someone as handsome as you."

You snort at the Baron's sudden bashfulness that not even the fine press of his lips could hide. "Now, now, Madam… Let us save the teasing for later when we are inside. It is very cold today—not very good for our health to be standing around."

"Ah, yes! Of course, of course! This way, please…"

You send one last look at the guards, signaling them to stay outside before following after Albedo who had went ahead and entered the premises before you. As you take off your coat and brushed the snow out of your hair, Madam Qiao talked about the history of the place. You've heard of it before so you knew that it was more for your guest than for yourself. Actually, this was the sole orphanage in the Empire. It is privately owned by Madam Qiao's family and is financially funded by the donations from the aristocracy. Because of that, your mother often had you tag along during her routine visits when you were younger.

One might think that one orphanage cannot possibly sustain all the orphaned children in the Empire and they would be right. However, children of Liyue, from a young age, already knew that to survive is to look after themselves. Instead of entering the system, they opt to hide in the underworld and fend for themselves. So really, the only children that call the orphanage their home are the ones who were abandoned when they were newborns and thus, are incapable of running or even of basic thought.

The Madam rushes off to check on the kids, telling you to wait and when you're sure that she was out of earshot, you turn to Albedo who was busy inspecting the picture frames that decorated the narrow hallway.

"What am I supposed to do?"

He looks at you weirdly.

"I know not of this!" You gesture wildly. This, that, everything.

"My lady…" Albedo inches closer to you as the furrow on his brows deepen. "I'm afraid I'm not quite understanding…"

"How do you— Kids." You wince. You hear the vestiges of your pride floating in the wind, never to return. If you close your eyes, you're certain that you will hear the chiming bells of laughter from the ghosts that roamed this place—maybe, that of the gods as well. They'll be holding their stomachs and pointing at you with their bony fingers as their grating voices made you want to carve streaks down a chalkboard with your fingernails.

Even the sheer bewilderment on the Baron's face is humiliating. He purses his lips, abruptly looks away from you and you knew you were not mad to say that you saw his shoulders shake as he brings a fist to his mouth, clearing his throat before looking at you once more. "I apologize, my lady, but were you not the one who took care of the Young Lord when you were children?"

His words drove unwanted memories to resurface in your mind. Of all the times, you towered over his smaller frame as you mocked him for tripping on his feet in the playground. Of all the times, you cackled like a witch with a pot full of poison as you force fed your poor little brother carrots. Of all the times you sashayed away as he called out from behind you, carrying piles and piles of paperwork and renumeration requests for your horrible, horrible antics.

Suffice to say, you could only present the Baron a tense smile in reply.

He really should know that despite his best efforts to hide the brewing curvature on his lips, his eyes tell. Dark pupils became just a little more blown against the silky backdrop of the heavens captured in a spherical bottle. The skin around his eyes become just a little more crinkled to accentuate the growing flush on his cheeks. The bashful darting of his eyes from your pitiful gaze, paired with the heavy breaths that escape in short puffs from his pink lips… They tell.

"At this point, you could just laugh." You pout as you feel heat swell under the skin of your ears. "It's even more embarrassing that you are attempting to stifle it to make me feel better."

Your 'permission' allows the first few chuckles of the Baron to enrapture him. This, to the worsening of your heart's pace and you tried to relieve yourself as you played with the ends of the yellow ribbon that hung on your hair. Well, you hesitantly stole a glance at the Baron who was daintily hiding the way he bit his lower lip to suppress the giggles that seemed to ceaselessly spill out from the farthest depths of his core. You're finding it increasingly difficult to be upset that he's laughing at you (of all people!) when he sounds like that. You're hardly dramatic… sometimes, but this once, you think that there is nothing wrong with proclaiming that when the poets wrote of how the heavens part and the trumpets blow and the angels come together to sing of a dream come true, they meant this: the way he looks at you with wide-eyes as if panicked with the inconsolable ailment of his amusement, the way his cheer comes out in the form of a cloud-like chorus, the way his moon dusted flaxen hair covers his star-kissed blues…

Any more and you'll sound like you're in love and in a way, he is very lovely to behold with your eyes. A doll, really. He evokes the same sadism you had as a child when you made up stories as you made your toys walk and talk, don different hairstyles and clothes, and the other stuff. What a dangerous man, indeed, you couldn't help but snicker as well, your heart suddenly filled with a nostalgic weightlessness and innocence.

"I—I'm sure you will do well, my lady… There is nothing that you are not good at."

You raise a brow. "Are you mocking me?"

"Of course, not." He bites his tongue before tugging his tie looser, no doubt stuffed from how rosy he has become. "But children are hardly difficult to please."

"My apologies but you seem to be forgetting that my way of pleasing people is throwing gold at their faces." You tried to stop the huffy roll of your eyes but ultimately failed.

"Then, I'll guide you." He beams a little warmer than usual. You had half the mind to question it but before you could, he answers for you. "But I must say that it's quite… wondrous to see you out of your depth for once, my lady…"

"So you are mocking me?"

Albedo worries his lip before softly shaking his head. "Not at all. It is not a bad thing to be imperfect sometimes. It makes you approachable—humane."

"…You say such frightening things, Baron."

Your conversation is cut short by the door sliding open, revealing the ushering hand of the Madam who excitedly spoke of how the children were ready (and bustling) to meet what would be, in their eyes, a real life princess and prince from the books. And, were they wrong to say that? You catch your reflection from a hanging mirror in passing. You sure dressed the part and the Baron was, well, the Baron.

The interior of the playroom was a lot more well-maintained than you expected, especially with the consideration that it was only the Madam and the few occasional volunteers who took care of the entire facility. The walls were filled with murals of a sunny, bright field almost reminiscent of the province you visited recently. Pressed against it were low, square chairs and round, wooden tables that had messily strewn books on top of them. On the center of the room was a large pink, cotton mat and it was there that you saw the ten children peering up at you curiously, cross-legged and dressed rather formally for the occasion. None were older than twelve and for their age, they're shorter and thinner than most. Well, you cannot blame the Madam. You imagine that it's not cheap to take care of this many energetic runts.

From the corner of your eye, you see Albedo wave with a tender smile and you straighten up, hurriedly mimicking his gesture albeit more hesitantly.

"This is Lady Feiyun and Baron Trifolium. They've come to visit you lot today." Probably cued and taught for many hours before, the children all stood up and clumsily curtsied. There were a few little girls who enthusiastically fanned their dresses much more than necessary whereas there were little boys who couldn't control their bodies as well yet that bowed too deeply and stumbled a few paces forward. Instinctively, the Baron stepped in front of you and gently stopped their fall with a comforting hold. The curious event was watched very keenly by everyone and you hear the Madam chuckle beside you when the little boy scratched at his nose nervously before flashing a wide smile, proudly showcasing his two missing front teeth.

"That is Changchang, Gao Fei, Mu Chen, Little Fei, Little Lulu, Little Meng, Yi Xian, Yi Zhu, Dongdong, and Ming." The Madam points from left to right. From her instruction, you knew that the boy who was still in Albedo's hands was Dongdong while the little girl whose eyes have not strayed away from you was Ming.

Like a fish out of water, you look at the Madam for help only to find out that she has walked away, muttering about getting refreshments but if you knew old ladies like her as well as you think you do, then you'll say that her sudden departure is definitely not for refreshments and more likely for her amusement. As showcased by the Baron's joyous display before, at the present, you were quite…

"Lady," a tug snaps you back to reality. It was Ming and her lackeys who were holding your skirt in a tiny, tight clasp. "Will you play with us?"

Like a kid searching for the silent affirmation of their guardian, your eyes find Albedo's which were already on you. He nods encouragingly, the twinkle in his eyes wide and apparent as you hesitantly nodded at the little girls who immediately cheered at your acquiesce. Ming tugs at your skirt once more, a little bit awkward with how she's hauling someone at least twice her size towards the corner of the playroom but coping with enough persistence.

"What are we playing?" The girls come to a stop at your question, staring at you for a few seconds before grabbing each other and huddling in front of you. While this was unfolding, you find your knees weakening and the beginnings of a migraine forming on the forefront of your head. They're kids, you remind yourself perplexed, they're kids that's why. You find the low seats meant to accommodate them uncomfortable but you sit anyway, the length of your dress pooling around you like a round pastry shell.

"Um… Can you read us a story?" Changchang asks you softly from behind Ming's unflinching front. "W-We received gifts from His Grace, Duke Tian but… we don't know how to read and Madam Qiao is too busy to play with us every time…"

Your brows furrow before you remember where you are and plaster a pleasant guise on your face. "Do you not meet with tutors?"

"No!" You didn't know that a child's visage can sour this much but the way Ming looked so unbelievably affronted at the mention of tutors surprised even you. "T-They're meanies!"

Someone sighs behind you and without looking, you already knew that the Baron was once again donning his apathetic façade to hide his distaste over the circumstances of these children.

Because only a fool would think that the nobility truly cared for these children who came from who knows where from who knows who. The shallow fulfillment of noblesse oblige and the charitable front they could show off to each other was the only value of this orphanage. They'd throw money at the Madam and tell her to use it well without even trying to define what 'well' would truly mean for children their age. And so when it comes to hiring educators, they'd choose just about anyone from the Baron and Viscount families, not thinking about their qualifications or intent for a single second. Honestly, you'd be more surprised if the tutors they so carelessly dragged in didn't raise their hand at the children at least once. It's an 'insult' to be forced to shake hands and talk to commoner children that were abandoned by their own commoner parents, after all!

Without knowing why, fury alights in your heart as your jaw tightened alongside your fists. With a press of your lips, you carefully took one of the open books on the table and smiled at the awaiting children gingerly and, without knowing why, you speak. "My former governess was a kind woman who loved children. She could be a little strict but I am sure she'd love to teach you just as I am sure that you all would have fun learning with her."

"You can't possibly!" Madam Qiao frowns as she plops the lemonade tray on the table. "It would greatly trouble Madam Ping… I heard she just recently retired and—!"

You shake your head with a strained smile. "I can talk to her. Besides, I am sure that she will be complaining of the lack of activity in her days soon enough."

"Still…"

"We'd love to help, Madam…" Albedo chimes in and at his reassuring smile, Madam Qiao sighs in defeat and affectionately taps your knee. You spy a few tears welling up in her eyes but she hurriedly mentions something about snacks before going back into the kitchen.

See? It was never about refreshments or snacks with old people.

Ming climbs onto your lap then but you don't miss the timid yet fond look the Baron sends you.

"What?" You ask cautiously as you crack open the book, ignoring the excited taps Ming sent to your hand.

"Nothing… Please do not mind me, my lady."

Shooting him one last odd look, you clear your throat before you began reading. You briefly recall all the times Alhaitham had read for you: his dreadfully boring and flat tone that made you fall asleep in a few minutes guaranteed and his complete lack of enthusiasm. Now, it's been a while since you read for children but if you did everything opposite of him, surely it'll be alright?

"This is a tale from a bygone era: a memoir on a man above all men. A long time ago, there lived a lowly countryfolk who worked tirelessly, mining Cor Lapis to feed his village that was filled with the elderly and the children left behind by their parents who braved the vast seas for treasure to bring home. This valiant young man was hailed a hero by the few who relied on him yet he would merely brush them off with a hearty laugh that shook the wooden foundations of their homes."

"HA.HA.HA…" You wince as you mimicked the decorative text on the book much to the amusement of the kids and the grown man beside you who were drawn in by your voice. "'Tis just the right thing to do and nothing more!' And with that, the man went about his day like he would any other day of the week."

"As he struck his sharp pickaxe, a tremor so grand shook the cave. Frightened, he picked himself up and ran as fast as he could. Alas! Just as the light from outside spilled into the dark cavern, the rocks tumbled and blocked the entrance! Dreadfully, dreadfully, the man fell to his knees as the last strands of day vanished and left him in complete darkness."

"'Whatever have I done to deserve such?' He bemoans followed by a sharp wail that made the bats flap their wings. 'My gods, why ever did you forsake me?'"

You pause, blinking quickly as you processed the words leaving your mouth. It is familiar as it can be and the bitter taste overpowers the sweet and sour of the lemonade you were offered. Swallowing thickly, you continued before anyone can recognize the turmoil behind your eyes.

"Just then, an earth-shattering voice calls him by his name thrice. He turns around, frightened like a biteless bunny, only to freeze as he sees a faint light from the distance. It floats with a warm yellow glow, dancing in circles before it moves away. Entranced, the man musters up his last remaining strength to chase after it. Each step he took granted him another one of those round yellow lights until eventually, it was so bright that he could no longer keep his eyes open."

"'Verily, you have seen the darkness this world would soon be thrust into and like so, you have seen the light I can bestow upon you to cast into hell this fated devastation. What say you, son of sinners?' The voice from before loudly proclaimed, the echoes near deafening him."

"'What do you seek of me, my lord? Nay, why do you seek me, a lowly man from the countryside?' The man replies and in response, the voice chuckles. 'Form a contract with me and you shall know.'"

"Did he? Did he?" Dongdong squirmed in his seat as he leaned closer to you, trying to sneak a peek at the images that portrayed the next event. Luckily, you were quick to lift the book above your head and the Baron was quick to hold him back by the waist.

You flick his forehead lightly, adjusting your grip on Ming just as Albedo rubbed the 'sore' spot on Dongdong's head with an affectionate chuckle. "Patience."

"Just shush so we can listen!" Gao Fei nagged which made Dongdong stick his tongue out in defense.

"As I was saying," you sigh, and you don't know what Albedo whispered to them but they now all stared at you with bated breath, him included. "Ehem, as I was saying… The man thought long and hard before agreeing when he remembered the family he has left behind. 'Very good, young man. Venture forth and you shall find the answer you seek.' He does as told and finds a hidden exit that lead to an unfamiliar creek. He runs, almost tripping on his feet many times, before laughing wildly as he breathes his first gulp of fresh air in what felt like years."

"However, his celebration was cut short by a gust of air that made him fall over. He looks up and behold! A dragon! ''Young man, now you have seen me. Honor our contract now and forevermore. Bring your people and head northeast. There you will find my daughter whom I love very dearly. Follow her every word. Do this and my blessing and power will be yours and your descendants' to use!'"

"A dragon?" Hushed whispers scatter in the room and you eyed the book curiously. Was this really just a legend?

"My lady?" You jump at the sudden call, shaking your head at his silent question before turning to the next page.

"The man blinks once and when he opened his eyes once more, the dragon was no longer there. Deciding to follow its guidance, the man leaves everything behind and heads northeast with the townspeople. There, he finds a beautiful maiden who calls herself a follower of the mighty dragon, Morax." You pause before continuing. "Despite her standing as a 'Saintess,' the woman had a temper and often chastised the man who could do no right under her watchful gaze."

The children giggle as you pitch your voice up.

"However, despite her steady dismissal, the man finds her heart pure and sincere as she advised him to take in the people who were suffering with no food nor shelter they pass on the way. Together, they fought direwolves and bandits alike, providing a safe haven for the people who gathered under them for their protection."

"Before anyone can realize it, the small nomadic town had become a country and soon, an empire that settled permanently by the sea. One night, the Saintess called the man who was now crowned Emperor and his wife to bless them. 'All must return to the earth but you have been blessed, man king of these lands. You will remember even as the footholds of these mountains get buried. You will stand tall even as these pillars fall.' And though he could not understand her words, he kept them to heart until his dying breath—honoring his past with his name. 'Dei' for the godly dragon king who blessed him and his people with prosperity and strength and 'Lapis' for the measly rocks he once mined that lead him to this fate."

You huff. "The end."

The crowd booed at the abrupt end but you ignored it in favor of closing the book and tracing over the cover. 'Edictum ad sui' by Alethea. You've never heard of it and why would you? It's a children's book with no historical backing. Still, you make a mental note to see if there are any sequels to this book. To the people of Liyue, this book was probably no different from the light novels of Inazuma with winding, crazy plots but you were different from them. You know of things they do not.

Ming's friends called her to play with a new toy you brought with you so she slipped out of your grip the same way Dongdong did with the Baron's. Massaging at your sore shoulders, you make an implicit gesture at the man who nodded and helped you up to your feet.

"We'd like to get some fresh air… We will be back shortly Madam." You smile before tugging the Baron outside of the playroom and into the empty hallway. You miss the fond, knowing grin of the old woman who had been watching you two interact with the kids the entire time.

"You read well."

You scoff but the quirk of your lips betray you. "Now, I am sure that you are mocking me."

"I would never." He replies as he leans against the window sill. "But… I also did not expect you to extend your help personally to the children."

You snort. "Then we'd be the same."

"Can I ask?" He asks hesitantly after a while of second-guessing.

"There's not much to it… I just…" You purse your lips before smiling tightly. "I was their age when the Duchess took me in, is all."

Sensing your discomfort, Albedo nods and swiftly changes the subject. "…The story of the Emperor must have reminded you of His Majesty."

You blink. "That did not even cross my mind."

"…Of course… He is doing well, in any case. He managed to reach the Tower safe and sound." You do not bother correcting his false assumption and disbelief.

"That is good to hear. Did you two make any progress with the prophesies?"

"Well…"

You hum emptily. "No?"

"I can confirm that the black sky was nothing but an illusion made with magic. Everything was normal behind a thin layer of mana that spanned across the borders of the Empire."

"Should I be expecting a 'but'?"

He grimaces then continues. "But I cannot say that the disasters were manmade."

"What?"

"His Majesty and I visited both locations and while I cannot comprehend how he was able to tell, he told me that Guyun Stone Forest is indeed underneath the waters and the rocks underneath Qiongji Estuary are indeed displaced. I was also unable to sense any external influences in both these places."

"But that doesn't make any sense!" You cross your arms as you began pacing. "It's just one or the other. They were able to tell what would happen because they instigated them or they were being truthful about their words about these natural disasters. But if they were trustworthy, they would have no need to use magic to alter the skies."

"…It is unlikely but perhaps we should not be too quick to cross away the possibility that they are able to see into the future but manipulated the phrasing of their annunciation to better serve them politically."

You raise a brow at him but end up slumping in defeat. "Well, as fictitious as it sounds, I cannot say anything to disprove that claim either."

Reaching an impasse, both of you fell silent. The grandfather clock down the hallway ticks unnervingly, becoming white noise alongside the faint murmur of the children's giggles a few doors away.

"Should we—" "I almost forgot—"

You halt in your words before shaking your head and coaxing him to continue. "I almost forgot to mention. I investigated Dragonsbane as you asked and conducted a few experiments with Orobaxi. It's quite unstable and aggressive but Orobaxi does subdue the effects of Dragonsbane seven out of ten times. Similarly, I did a control test on all the substances and I am more confident about my initial hypothesis."

"About the medicine you gave the victims?"

He hums in thought. "Somewhat. Dragonsbane elevates the Yang in the body whereas Orobaxi elevates the Yin. Used on someone with high levels of Yang, Orobaxi can help the body reach homeostasis once more but for most people who have stable levels of both Yin and Yang, Orobaxi causes a Yin influx that explains the hallucinations and other symptoms of the victims."

"Then what does your drug do?"

"Well… It expels everything in excess in the body." He pauses before very shortly scratching at his head. "But to be frank, this aspect is just a side effect of the combination of ingredients I used. It is not the intended effect."

"Huh… So what you're saying is that our miracle cure is… a miracle? A beneficial accident?"

"Yes."

"Who would've thought…?"

"Thought what?"

You huff amusedly. "That luck can still sometimes be on my side."

Freshly manicured fingers trailed slowly up the bronze ornamental tip of the desk chair. Of course, it was made in the likeness of the dragons because of course, the royal family was the kind of family to blow things out of proportion and pridefully showcase their intimate relationship with a being of great power and authority regardless of how distant their association has become. In fact, for a few hundred years, the reigning royal family was not a single drip of blood related to the First Emperor. Did they still use the draconic insignia? Of course. Did they obnoxiously plastered it everywhere they can? It was because of their doing that dragons became a commonly embroidered detail on the silk garments of those of royal descent.

You hesitated before shaking your head and crossing the room, plopping unceremoniously on the long couch. That seat was not for you. It was for His Majesty or in the worst case scenario, for your Father. As your eyes trailed over the intricate brushwork of the ceiling mural, you feel a sense of fear. The sharp blade the Emperor waved around was reminiscent of the proverbial dagger on your neck. That was how power worked. It's wonderful for the most part but it is so volatile that it'll sooner cause iron to draw streaks of vermillion over your flesh than it would give you an opportunity to savor it. And you fear it. You fear because its danger was addicting. It's the opiate in your blood—the saccharine sweet candy on your lips with each order seen through. To have power is to die. To have power and to use it well is to live and you? You have a gambler's heart, drumming only in the throes of glory and warm only in the afterglow of thrill. You fear so much that when you seat on that lonely seat, you'd fall from grace all over again like a repentant woman who believed the revolting beauty of the devil's lies. You fear that you'll come crawling back to your old ways and lose everything all over again. You fear.

Three thumps echo in the quiet room and with a groan, you sit up. Once upon a time, it was you on the other side of this room. Once upon a time, it was His Majesty who controlled the humidity and tension of this room. Ironically, those days feel fonder now that you were the one turning your back to the door, appreciating the incredible stained glass window.

"Come in."

The familiar casualness in the whistle that followed the creaking of the double doors made your muscles untense. "His Majesty does not disappoint. How much do you reckon is the price of one singular décor in this office?"

"Fifteen." He responds flatly and you spun around to give them a disbelieving expression.

"Higher." You comment as you urge them to seat. "Much higher."

Yanfei hisses in thought as she took your spot from earlier. "Thirty?"

"At least." You shrug which only adds to Alhaitham's scowl.

"Nothing here is worth that much."

"Now, now… Some things gain value over time." You tilt your head towards the large painted vase on the corner of the room. "That one is apparently the last surviving work of a master potter. Its price went from five to ninety in a snap."

"Enough about curating! What did you call us in for?" Yanfei asks as straight to the point as always.

"I was wondering if you managed to find anything of note about dragons and serpents."

"That?" Yanfei pauses, sharing a glance with Alhaitham who merely shrugs to say 'I don't know,' "Well, I am not sure if it is worth anything at all but in historical records, there are a handful of dragons that came up multiple times namely: Mondstadt's Dvalin, Liyue's Morax, Inazuma's Orobaxi, Sumeru's Apep and Snezhnaya's dragon sovereign whose name was deliberately obscured from the records."

Yanfei halts all of a sudden before hurriedly letting out her next words. "This is unconfirmed, by the way, my lady! For all I know, my sources could all be gibberish!"

"No matter. Continue."

"Uh… Where was I? Oh! Among these dragons, it was Morax and Orobaxi who were fondest of the people. Instead of holing away far from the main civilizations like the others, they attended to the people personally but unlike ours, Orobaxi never blessed any individuals. You… do know of our local legend, right? About how Morax blessed the First Emperor, Vago?"

You hum in agreement whereas Alhaitham crosses his arm as he does when he is curious about something. "What do you know of Snezhnaya's dragon?"

"Why do you ask?" You turn to him.

"'When someone willingly puts effort into hiding something, there must be something.'" He quotes.

"I don't know much but from what I could grasp of Snezhnayan natives' oral traditions, their dragon never liked them and few years prior their disappearance, that distaste transformed into fury."

Alhaitham frowns. "That does not tell much."

'But it does, in a way…' You think to yourself but ultimately chose to keep quiet about it.

"If the stories were true…" Yanfei starts with a thoughtful sigh. "Teyvat really was in its golden age at the time of the dragon reign. Alas, they disappeared and the world was plunged into war and famine."

"I read a curious children's book earlier when I visited the orphanage."

At your interjection, Yanfei sits up. "How did that go, by the way? Did I not call in enough publications?"

"They were plenty." You couldn't help the roll of your eyes and the entertained smile forming on your lips. "In fact, I could barely see with their kameras' flashing lights."

"In a few hours, you'll be known for your congeniality. Does it excite you, my lady?"

"Get out."

"I kid, I kid!" Yanfei laughs freely, unbothered by your playful threat. "Anyway, you were talking about a book?"

"Yes. 'Edictum ad sui.' Does it ring any bells?"

"I do not believe so?" Yanfei replies.

"The House of Daena does not house a great collection of children's books so I'm afraid I've yet to come across it."

You nod petulantly before briefly recounting the story. As your assistants, in some manner, they are privy to most of the information you have collated. You watch their expressions become increasingly serious as the story began to mirror the events in the Emperor's account.

"I will look into the author. If they are from Liyue, I am sure that they have some registration files buried somewhere when the book was published." Yanfei tells you with a newfound seriousness.

Following her, Alhaitham also nods. "I can ask someone to check the Daena's records. If this Alathea submitted the manuscript for archival purposes, we might be able to trace their location from the mailing address."

"Thank you all." You grin tiredly but sincerely. "It is such a relief to have you on my side."

"Oh? Have my ears finally failed me so?" Yanfei jabs at you but you promptly ignore her as you notice Alhaitham's gaze on your lap.

"Haitham…?"

"That is…" Calloused fingers trace over the embroidery on the pillow you handed him when he gestured for it. "An ancient rune… What is it doing here?"

Out of curiosity, you stretch your neck to sneak a peek at what has been causing the infamously stoic scholar to become so perplexed. The embroidery was done on a beige silk—taking the form of tree leaves under the gleam of sunlight. However, as he shifts the pillow in his hands to give you a better view, you spot a familiar sight.

"…Do you know what it says?"

He shakes his head, lips curved down as he's forced to face a subject he can't comprehend despite belonging in his field of specialty. "It's a character from a dead language's writing system—the alleged source material for the standardized Liyuen used today. I cannot read it but I can recall seeing it in an ancient book about old translated proverbs."

"A… proverb?"

"一寸光阴一寸金，寸金难买寸光阴"

Your frown deepens at his words. You've wondered about it back then too. When you first learned of the sudden surge of mana five months before you 'turned back time,' you wondered if His Majesty had anything to do with it. But why? Was this a part of his plan and if so, what is he planning? Does he recall what happened in the past as well? Forget about that, how can he even have the power to turn back time in the first place? Does his ancestral lineage have anything to do with it? But if he can turn back time, why didn't he just do so the moment things fell apart for him?

No, before asking all of that, is the guild master's information even reliable?

Your head spins as questions swam inside like a school of fish in a cylindrical path. It was like this back then too. After you visited Ajax, inquiry after inquiry popped into your brain about the man who goes by Zhongli. Just… Who was he? At this point, it was clear as day that he is the key to figuring out what happened to you the day you were executed and dragged back to life.

"I… I will see myself out." Yanfei worriedly gave you one last look over before standing up. "It seems like you're not feeling too well, my lady. Sir Alhaitham, please—"

"I will look after her." He promptly continues before standing up himself to see her out. With a firm press, the door closes and that leaves you with Alhaitham who was quietly observing you with that same indescribable and strange expression that has been appearing more frequently as of late.

You shake your head as if willing the questions to fly right out with the harsh motion. "Haitham, would you happen to know if the Akademiya sent a diplomatic inquiry about the leylines in Liyue within the past few months?"

"The leylines." He repeats and you just nod.

He presses his lips, sharp eyes zeroing on each minor movement you made before stalking towards you. From this angle, his musculature is much more pronounced and you find yourself feeling dirty as your thoughts blanked out immediately.

"Yes."

"I'm sorry?" You clear your throat, hoping that he didn't realize just how domineering the scent of herbs and citrus on his skin was—something that you're only now realizing as he sits in close proximity to you.

"Yes, they did inquire about the leylines. His Majesty refused to elaborate."

You falter at his words. Both because your worries were ultimately senseless when his mind seems to be elsewhere: a place that requires the gravitas and tension on his large frame as his veiny hands linked together on top of his spread out legs and because the guild master was saying the truth. If this part of his statement is true, then it's probably likely that the rest are as well, right?

Deep in your unreliable reasoning, you're startled when Alhaitham softly calls out your name. He barely does that, always calling you informally by 'you,' 'she,' or 'this' and if not that, then mockingly, despite the cloud of subtlety, by your title. The last time you remember hearing your name falling from his soft lips was when he had whispered it like a prayer—a blasphemous declaration by the portside as he hooked his fingers on your chin, forcing you to stare in those deadly eyes that screamed of many different things at once. It was a solemn ceremony in front of the desolate altar of farewells. Alhaitham, then on his teenage years and no longer the boy you were taller than, had finished his exchange program in Liyue and was set to depart for Inazuma where he will finish his studies.

Your heart had skipped a beat just as it was doing now as Alhaitham mimicked the actions of his past self, knocking your foreheads together for good measure. "What…?"

"You told me not to hide anything from you." He whispers in reference to a childhood promise you were sure he had forgotten. "And yet, you have done nothing but hide since I've come back to you."

"Haitham…"

"You're unfair. Ever since then, you have always been so unfair."

Alhaitham pulls back but you selfishly fisted the dark lapels of his coat to keep him where he is. "How have I been unfair to you when I have always…"

"Did you think I would not notice? You insult my intelligence far too much for a woman of your wit."

You freeze.

"I told you, did I not?" He pauses in suspense before narrowing his eyes at you. Then, piece per piece, he says a familiar string of words. "Your behavior has been odd. You are too anxious—too emotional that you end up making irrational and awfully reckless decisions. Isolating and being defensive… My conjecture is correct."

This time, it is you who attempt to draw back but his strong forearms trap you against the armrest of the couch. "You are exhibiting symptoms of a war veteran who has been forcibly plunged into years' worth of trauma."

Your lungs burn from the way you held your breath. In some twisted assumption made by your irrationality, you think that if you did so much as breathe, he'll know. He'll see you and your failures and he would detest you and he'll leave. You would deserve it, of course, but it'd hurt and it would kill you and you think there is no greater agony than wishing for that guillotine to have been successful in cutting off the fine fibers of your nerves so you wouldn't have to bear witness to the sight of his broad back straying away from you when you have given everything left of you to wish otherwise.

You do not even realize how tears have been steadily slipping down your cheeks as your chest rose up and down in quick succession. But you do faintly recognize the warmth of his palms and his calloused, paper-worn fingers on top of your trembling, icy ones. "Do you know what is most perplexing, hayati?"

"Nothing happened to you. I asked everyone I could and yet, they all replied the same." His arms wrap around you and he tenderly pins your hair behind your ear before leaning in. Hot puffs of air fan across your fragile skin as his voice drops to an octave darker—interrogative, scary, heart-clenching. "You were acting as usual until you woke up from a nightmare around the last days of August."

You let out a shaky breath as he played with the tips of your hair, half-comfortingly and half in hopes to unnerve you further so you'll finally spill the truth.

"What did you see in your dream, my lady? No, what did you experience that changed you so, Lady Feiyun?"

Your fingers dig deep crescents on the sides of his thighs.

"What kind of life did you live in that 'dream' that it lead you to this mess?"

Notes:

[ Second Act ] — " That Which Glitters in the Dark is Gold " ends.

Updates will resume the week after the next. Intermission III and IV will follow before [ Final Act ] — "A Banquet of Gilded Tongues" begins !

[1] — The 'translated' proverb is an actual Chinese proverb meaning "An ounce of gold can't buy you an interval of time."
[2] — Hayati is a term of endearment that Alhaitham gave Lady Feiyun in their teenage years. It is of Arabic origins meaning 'my life'

Chapter 18: INTERMISSION III — OF FIRST MEETINGS AND WINTER CHARADES.

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

There are always two sides to a story.

The beautiful cascade of powdery winter snow was nothing but an ephemeral sight to see as one takes small gulps of some luxury seasonal tea. Look far enough at the right angle and the flakes would glimmer and paint the illusion of perfectly round pearls that costs thousands of hard, cold mora.

Yet, huddled under a large, protruding root was a girl barely seven years of age. The beautiful white dress that once resembled the pure white visage of snow had long since been dirtied by grass stains and dirt. It was thin too—a garment made for indoor use that made tremors rack her body under the might of the cold weather.

A soft cry for her mother escaped her chapped, breaking lips as she blearily looked at the world that seemed to spin and wobble from her static position.

At her young age—and at the face of events she was unprepared for—the realization of how difficult it was to be without a home in the winter months lay heavy on her inexperienced tongue. It was like a spoonful of herbal medicine from an unlicensed practitioner. Taking it—admitting it—does nothing. It neither soothes her nor helps her. She still suffers.

She'd pay a good lot to be at her seaside manor. It was always warmer there and the sight of snow falling on the warm beige sands from her bedroom window was uniquely fascinating. Fondly, she remembers the customized dollhouse she'd play with in front of it, weaving stories of a prince and princess meeting and settling down in a wall-per-wall, window-per-window copy of her own home.

Yes, once upon a time, she longed for more. But when handed nothing, even the mundane little that she had is transformed into such a magnificent dream.

Wet lashes fluttered up and down as she cracked her eyes open as best as she could. Sunlight was just beginning to peek from the horizon and with it came the rumbling of her stomach. Poached eggs and buttercream pancakes sounded so, so good, she thinks with a heavy swallow. It had been four, five, six? days since she last ate anything—the warnings of their family doctor fresh in her memory.

"Little miss—" the elderly man would smile at her so warmly that she thought that it could possibly thaw the frost outside. His eyes had disappeared into thin crinkles as he gently closed her fist that now held a small piece of candy—"Never do that again, yes? Next time you crave something sweet, come to me and I shall give you all the candies you could ever want. Our forest is home to many berries but most contain substances that are perilous to your health. Better yet steer clear of them entirely."

She sniffs at the reminder, lips wobbling yet no noise escaping like the big girl she has become in a few days alone.

Mustering up the last of her strength, short, stubby fingers dug into the ground as she stood up. It was cold and it was damp and it was filthy but she knew that it was the last of her concerns at the present.

For there were unknown men—big and burly and so much stronger than her—who were after her. Dressed in black, iron armors, they had stormed into her home that she had deemed impenetrable until a few days ago and they had dragged her mother by her hair.

Although it pained him so, her father was quick to tear his gaze away from the scene, hurriedly picking her up despite her growing tantrum, and running to stow her away in a large toy chest, tearfully shushing her before closing the lid with a final kiss on the crown of her head.

She didn't see but she did hear and she remembered. The abrupt cut of her mothers screams, the sound of splattering on the wall, her father's furious cry and the thudding and mocking jeers and the servants' begging and the doctor's vengeful words and—

She remembered that she was all alone in this cruel world now.

Short as they might be, her legs quietly managed to carry her to temporary safety—bare feet growing calloused as she ran over rocks and brittle branches alike. It was a small price to pay for her survival, an inner voice tells her and she quite agrees.

The fast pacing of her heart turned languid as fatigue sets in proved that she is alive and life—as proven to be fickle as it can be—is precious, indeed. Even if it hurts, even if she is so lonely… She wants to live.

And she will. She has to. She promised.

Aimlessly walking with an empty gloss over her tired eyes, the little girl stumbled upon the sound of crunching dead leaves. Bells ring in her mind reminiscent of the church's that once rung in the neighboring town when bandits stormed the place dry. Immediately tense, she backed into another similarly old and large tree and ducked, bruised arms wrapping around her head as she pleaded over and over again for them to just please, turn away.

"…Little girl…" Her eyes snapped up, eyes wide and wet as she inched backward even further despite having no more room to scoot into. "No, no… We mean no harm!"

And as if proving it, the middle-aged man raised both his palms up with a friendly smile. Despite this show of relinquishment, the little girl doesn't ease up and instead, grew ever more wary because why else would he stop by to attend to a lost, dirty little girl?

"I see that you would not trust me… Well, it is not a bad thing to be distrustful of strangers. You have been taught well." He laughs and the woman beside him smiles at his light jest.

"Where is your family, dear?" She asks.

Gone.

The little girl blinks before looking down, hugging her knees tighter to her chest.

"…Okay… Well… Can you understand us, at least?" She tries again and this time, the little girl hesitantly peers up to her before looking down once more and nodding slowly.

"Good! Good." The man she had assumed to be the woman's husband smiles before gesturing to the side. "You know, I have a son around your age. Look."

She followed his motion to see a little boy who was a head taller than she was. He wore a different style of garment from what she often saw on her parents' friends' children but it was similar—a white robe that faded into a light blue layered over the other, tied with a band patterned with waves.

The little boy gives her a friendly smile, blue hair jostling with the small tilt of his head and it was then that she realized how well-kept they looked.

Their clothing seemed expensive—sewn from the highest quality silk and linen available to the market. The lady, whom she was now able to look up to without flinching, had an ornamental pin on her hair that was placed in a neat low bun. She was almost certain it was of genuine gold and gemstones.

"Miss," she looks at the boy once more only for her gaze to fall on the wrapped something on his hands that were outstretched towards her. "I would like to share my favorite snack with you, if that is alright…"

Her expression sours and the little boy laughs awkwardly before continuing. "Please do not be mistaken. It is simply customary for me to give gifts to my new friends but this onigiri is all I have at the moment. Please forgive me."

She bit her lip as she stared at the 'onigiri.' She did not know what it was but judging from the appetizing smell, it was food and food was exactly what she needed right now. The mere thought of it had made her mouth water and as discretely as she could, she gulped.

If it was poisoned, she'd die, but if she had to live another day without food, she knew she'll die either way.

Was it so bad to just take it then?

She gives one last scan of their encouraging, anticipating expressions before slowly taking the thing into her hands and, with the hesitance of a fawn that was barely able to stand on its own, the little girl peels open the leaf wrapping to take a small bite on the triangular tip.

"Is-is it good?" The little boy asks—more nervously than her for some reason, and it makes her smile weakly.

"Yes. Thank you."

Her voice, sweet despite its softness and fragility, and calm despite its creakiness, reached the boy's heart that squeezed in sympathy and relief.

Thank you, indeed, for ending her misery or for helping her—whichever it was, she'll soon find out.

"Little girl, it is not safe for you to be here." The man tells her kindly after she finished her food. "We are heading to Liyue Harbor for some business. Would you like to come with us?"

At his words, the little girl's eyes shone for the first time in a week. "W-Would you be able to take me to Feiyun manor?"

"The Feiyun manor?" The man's eyes widen, and at the prospect of getting out of the forest after days of wandering around and being lost, the girl continues without care.

"Mhm… My father is a close friend of theirs so…"

The adults share a glance with each other, seemingly realizing the implication of her words.

"Very well. We shall drop you off there." The woman smiles as she pats her head comfortingly, eyes suspiciously glossy as she does.

"I'll help you up."

The little girl's eyes widen as she feels warmth cover her hand. Looking down, she quickly diverts her gaze back to the little boy whose eyes turned into small crescents as he tugs her forward. "Is this alright?"

"…Yes."

He blinks before clicking his tongue as if realizing something. Swiftly, he removes his scarf and wraps it around her neck with a warm tenderness in his sentiments. With a shy smile, he speaks. "And this?"

And wordlessly, she nods.

From the corner of her eyes, she sees the two adults chuckle to themselves at the adorable sight. It was rare for her to be the center of the attention this way so she nuzzles into the scarf, tightens her grip on his hand, and hides behind the small back that looked broader after weeks of being alone.

"Our carriage is nearby. Can you still walk? It shouldn't take too long."

"I… I am fine."

"Let me know when you are too tired." She noticed that his nose also crinkles cutely when he smiles. "I can carry you… Or well, my father can…"

"Okay."

"And we have water there as well. You can have as much as you want."

"Mhm…"

The light slides in from the gaps in the dry branches and she instinctively shut her eyes, only opening them when a shadow came to protect her from its blinding rays.

His palm hovers over her face, eyes seemingly torn in between wonder and solemn empathy with his lips curved upward melancholically to match his sudden turn of emotions. "And thank you. For surviving. You did a good job."

Her lips part, the tremor of her body returning full force as she took a sharp breath in. She hurriedly looks away, taking in the snowflakes that had settled over the heaven-tint of his hair and his lashes and at the landscape and the trees and the world that finally felt like it welcomed her once more.

"Mhm."

She blinked away the fat blobs of tears that welled in her eyes at his words, her cheeks becoming chilly as the streaks dried up. Yet, it was warm inside. Her blood was pumping and her chest throbbed painfully good.

She was alive.

She survived.

She did a good job.

She was now alone.

The thought that she was now safe made her emotions come crashing down after days' worth of delay. As she continued to sob—appreciating the help she was given yet not being able to truly feel happy about it, the travelers from afar could only look at her with pity.

There are always two sides to a story.

An onigiri in exchange for friendship was an onigiri that gave her a new lease in life—as a Feiyun. Whether that was a curse or not… Well, that had to depend on the audience, no?

And a significant but vaguely remembered event in one's life can be nothing but a forgotten memory to another.

"Let's take a break and resume our meeting later, my lord. Shall we head out for lunch or will you treat me to your homeland's delicacies today as well?"

Ayato hums in thought before smiling, his nose crinkling along his eyes as he does so. "Well, my retainer made us some onigiri to share, if that is alright?"

"Yes, thank you." Your voice, sweet despite its confidence and strength reached the boy's heart that squeezed in fondness and strange nostalgia.

Notes:

[ DIRECTOR'S NOTES ] - Lady Feiyun's combined stress and trauma caused some of her memories to be pushed back. She is aware that a foreign family passing by her childhood home helped her get to Feiyun manor but is unable to remember any detail beyond that. Meanwhile, Ambassador Ayato has forgotten that the event ever happened—a consequence of his tiresome training and succession as the leader of the Shuumatsuban after the untimely death of his parents.

Considering this, Ambassador Ayato in the original timeline only saw Lady Feiyun as another criminal who received rightful punishment. He was still stationed in Liyue at the time of the execution, having no reason to return to Inazuma prematurely. He did, however, take pity on Countess Yun and Duke Tian whose protests were ignored. After things blew over, Ayato secretly pulled some strings and became a sponsor for the new theatre house Yun Jin wanted to build in House Feiyun's name. This theatre house is the same Lady Feiyun sponsored in the present timeline in order to hide her and Emperor Kunikuzushi's clandestine meeting.

It is also important to note that in the original timeline, Kunikuzushi died before Lady Feiyun. His coup against Empress Ei failed because of the lack of resources. He attempted to retreat but was mercilessly killed by his younger sister who stabbed him 32 times. His corpse was left to rot in Kannazuka and soldiers of the Inazuman Empire mockingly offered him Dendrobriums, referencing his ironic past (see: Dendrobrium in-game lore).

Chapter 19: INTERMISSION IV — OF NOSTALGIA AND SUMMERTIME WOES.

Summary:

Set in the first timeline, post-execution of Lady Feiyun

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

If rationality dictates that everything can be explained through logic and rhetoric, and if every problem has a rational and probable solution then if he placed his heart into it, he can find an answer to all of his questions so long as he can distance himself from his emotions and objectively view the situation with cold logic and rhetoric.

But was that even possible in reality?

The papers in his hands fall from his slackened grip and his senior—worried for him and the dangerous nothingness on his face—reached out but he deftly dodged his comforting hand by turning his back on him.

No one speaks as the heavy door makes a haunting creak. They could only watch with heavy hearts as the stoic scholar disappears from their view.

His rationality dictates that nothing life-changing could possibly happen in the span of a measly week. It is only seven days. The world would still be as he knew it when he returns and so, without any afterthought, the young man readily agreed to his boss' proposal.

"Nothing is more important than our pursuit for wisdom, Alhaitham," he told him with a voice devoid of anything but the impartial model of any man of science.

He had agreed and his small sacrifice produced results—a breakthrough of a lifetime at the cost of seven days away from civilization.

The scent of old parchment and leather greets him as he cracks the door to his home office open. Had anyone asked him, he would not have a reply for how he had gotten there. His feet moved. He was there. That was it.

Instinctively, and still with that imperceptible gaze, he poked a feather tip into an inconspicuous hole inside his drawer. He fiddled with it for a few seconds before a quiet 'click' echoed in the terrifying silence of the room—a view similar to the calmness of a desolate town that had been emptied after warnings of a great storm. It was a fitting analogy: similar intensity, a very literary use of words. Had he been on the right mind, he would've given a nod or two—great praise for a man who has dedicated his life to the study of words.

The drawer opens to reveal a neat pile of letters—some in pink but most in blue, bearing similarly colored wax seals and faded perfume sprays and expensive stamps. His hand hovered into the air for a second before he clenches and unclenches, willing the unfamiliar tremor to go away as he picks the envelope at the front of the nearest pile.

There was a ground-shaking avalanche of depth in the way his fingers traced over the blotted ink—a prayerful serenity juxtaposed to a solemn anguish as he traced the name over and over and over again.

Seven days.

Apparently, his rational belief was not so rational after all because a lot could happen in seven days. It took seven days for him to decode a vital ancient text despite the many years before that which he spent studying the fundamentals of the dead language. It took seven days before he was free to go home. It took seven days before he found out what tragic fate befell his dear friend.

He was seven days late.

No tear falls from his multicolored eyes yet his heart felt like it was tearing—muscle per muscle, layer per layer, vein per vein, pump per pump. Blood felt like it was pooling under his ribcage, flooding his lungs making it hard to breathe. His chest heaves and no amount of deep breathes in and out calms him.

He claws at his chest at a particularly harsh squeeze before he's grabbing at anything, anything to regain his composure. Something clatters as he pushes around his desk. Something breaks and the noise of fragile glass cracking gives him a second to pause.

Fragments crunch under his feet as he stalks to the fallen picture frame. It contained no picture—just a sketch of a familiar young lady leaning against a pine tree as she wove two identical pairs of flower crowns on her lap.

He cuts his index finger from his attempt to pick up the flimsy piece of paper but he pays it no heed, only turning the piece around to spot his own messy cursive.

July 7 — Liyue Memorial Park.

"Do you think I am ungrateful, Haithami?" The young lady whisper-asks as she knocks her head back to the trunk of the tree.

At her sudden inquiry, the young man slides his eyes to her smaller form momentarily before going back to his book that he insisted he had to bring along before joining her on her small excursion. "Pray tell, where is this coming from?"

"Just…" She pauses before laughing lightly. "Never mind. To be honest, I know not myself."

He hums.

Before moving to Liyue Harbor for the Akademiya's exchange program, he thought that he found nothing more frustrating than the horribly written dissertations he had to read and the lazily filled out application forms in the House of Daena. But now, there were two things worse than so: one, the cruelly kind, loudly quiet, and brightly lonely conundrum of a woman beside him and two, his complete and utter disappointment in himself and his lacking.

He finds that Lady Feiyun was cruel in her denial of her kindness even to herself. She is loud in how she hides the solitude of her life as the eldest daughter whose expectations lay aplenty. Most importantly, she is exuberant and bright to blind everyone of the childish loneliness that had been in her heart for the longest time.

It was unfair.

If only he was as half as good with people as he is with logic then perhaps, he would be able to traverse the mess of his mind palace to find by elimination the right words to say in this moment when this young lady needs something.

"To seek what you do not have," he starts because as always, he falls back to fact and logic: things that shan't fail him, "is not an ungrateful thing to do. It is to exist."

The young lady smiles emptily at his response and fearing that his sentiments did not reach her as intended, he continues. "Even beasts know that if they wish to survive, they should think about how to attain more."

"Are you saying that I should be greedy? Even after having so much?" She chuckles. "I am alive. I am well-fed, clothed, and sheltered. I even found a family to call my own. Is it really right for me to be greedy for more?"

Silence spills in the open air between the two and for a second, the young lady looked like she was sure that the conversation has ended on that note. Much to both's disbelief, he continues.

"No, I am saying that it is not a bad thought to take this time around after constantly being the one taken from."

His book shuts with a small thud after a long while of rereading the same sentence to no effect. Instead, the scholar turns to face his partner. "Your family delights in being able to provide for you—in being given a chance to show how much they adore you. I know very little of love but I imagine that they must have much of it for you."

"And why do you say that?" He carefully eyes your expression before easing up when he recognized that it was missing the forlorn conflict it held minutes prior.

"Because… they seem to be content, fighting to keep you in their lives day by day."

He knows little of love but he knows of science: the thump-thump-thump in his chest, the warmth under the skin on his ears, and the understanding in the mirror of his words; all are symptomatic and point towards the conclusion of love.

A love so strong life would be meaningless without it.

A love wherein the world pales in comparison to the perspective value placed upon her.

His life.

Hayati.

"Should you not be kinder to yourself?"

"Says you," she sticks her tongue out, tossing the flower crown that plopped sloppily on his ashen hair. "You are the one who burdens himself with such unfair expectations."

"You are telling me that?" He blandly retorts.

The lady rolls her eyes playfully. "Fine. If I were to promise that from now on, I will run to you and give you my truth, will you do the same?"

"You would not hide anything?"

The distrust in his tone makes the lady frown and so, she makes a show of wearing her crown and vowing on her reign over summer flowers and shared youth to open her calloused heart to him.

And to that he replies with a curse to the gods and to the cold-hearted demons that walked the earth that took and took and took from the young girl who had many and little at the same time.

His blood—his life—forms a damp spot on the rough sketch of that memory of her.

Notes:

[ DIRECTOR'S NOTES ] — Thank you for your support in my small story. I truly cannot explain how much your enthusiasm means to me. However, every time I read your comments, just know that I get as excited as you were!

As mentioned previously, I will be having a holiday break and would not be posting new chapters for the entirety of December. Regular updates will resume on January 5 with the continuation of the main story.

It fills me with such a bittersweet feeling now that we are at the beginning of the end. But considering what is to come… Well, I can only say that I can barely stay seated myself. The following chapters are, for the lack of better words, *intense*. I hope you look forward to it!

Lastly, it is Lady Feiyun's dream to be able to lounge around and take in the festivities without a care in the world. Unfortunately, that would not be possible for now so instead, please live her dream for her. Take this time to breathe and relax (because you wouldn't be able to when Act 3 begins… Just kidding! …Unless…)

Happy Holidays Everyone! 3

Chapter 20: SHÍ WŬ — A DEAFENING NIGHT, AN UNSPOKEN DELIGHT.

Summary:

[ Third Act ] — " A Banquet of Gilded Tongues "

The ballroom is adorned with gold
And equally dangerous are the knots
That clipped the crane's flight with a kind smile.
Once again, she weeps.
And even then, she weeps some more.
"Whatever have I fought for?" She screams.
Here she makes a vow.
This time, she will end it once and for all.

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

"So… Here we are again," the guild master grins stickily as he sat directly in front of you in one of the many plush couches in your temporary room at the Palace. "I must say, my lady, our meetings always happening by your bedroom gives me quite a hefty assumption."

You return his smile with the sweetness of your sarcasm. "You can keep your dreams and assumptions to yourself."

"Now, that would not do, will it? However can I satiate myself with my mere imagination only when I could have the real deal right in front of me?" He laughs, truly merry as he sees your eye twitch.

"Get out."

"Already?" Had you had any less patience, you would have smacked the smugness off his demeanor right in that moment. "But you were the one who called upon me, were you not? Please do not be so quick to push me out when I had troubled with infiltrating the Palace myself."

You scoff. "This 'trouble' you speak off was so kindly and repeatedly established by yourself in our correspondence as an additional fifty percent of the total price of the information you have. I would say that we are square right at this moment."

At your words, the guild master raised his hands to show for his defeat but that mocking smile of his remained unperturbed on his face making you doubt that you won that little bout of your ever-irritating exchanges.

"Never mind that. I am very curious about your next line of inquiry, my lady. You always ask the most intriguing of questions, after all…"

"Right, well… I happened upon an interesting finding." You trail off as you subconsciously found yourself reminiscing about the events from a few days ago. You had just been working on forging your Father's signature (with his consent, of course) on the enormous pile of paperwork the acting Emperor had to deal with when…

"Too busy?" Your head snaps up to see the trademark closed-eyed smile of the Ambassador who still had one hand raised in a knocking position as he stood in the doorway. Honestly, you had been so absorbed in your work that you had not even noticed his entrance. Was it that easy to sneak up on you? You couldn't help but wonder as you slowly stood up in a daze, palms pressed on the desk surface as you returned his unflinching gaze.

"Not at all." You smiled before gesturing to the couches and moving around the table to meet him in the middle. "I did say I would not be quick to turn you away the next time we meet."

The Ambassador shakes his head lightheartedly in reply. "It's been a while since you gave me a raincheck. Am I in a position to follow it up?"

"How about dinner after this? It goes without saying but the chefs in the Palace are a lot who live up to their name…"

"If they have managed to earn my lady's infrequent praise, then there is, without question, a need for me to witness their talent for myself as well."

The amused laughter escapes you automatically. "Then it is decided. Well, back to the matter at hand… What have you come for, Ambassador? Anything urgent to relay?"

"Hm… Not quite but His Majesty has a letter for you." He pauses before smiling once more but you couldn't help but notice the strange edge it now held. "He was afraid that the letter would not reach you in a timely manner should he do as he had before and addressed the letter to your residence."

"Ah… Then I must apologize for troubling you, my lord." You reply as you carefully took the folded parchment from his hands.

"No trouble at all, my lady. It is my duty to see to His Majesty's wishes but…" He cheekily winks with a dimpled smile as he looked at you mirthfully. "It helps that I was simultaneously given an excuse to see you as well."

"You jest too much."

Waving him off, you open the letter with controlled anticipation. You are not quite sure if it is something to be proud of or not but you like to think that you have gotten to know His Majesty, Kunikuzushi, quite well over the course of a year. His attitude can be… quite complex? He's many things but when it comes to you, in particular, he seems to be unable to stick to his intentions and prefers to go about the roundest of the most roundabout ways to go about communication. You could spend an entire day citing examples but the bottom line was relatively simple: unless it was for business affairs or important news, then you doubt His Majesty would make the "first move" and contact you without needing to be forced by his attendants.

You sneak a glance at the unassuming Ambassador. Based on his behavior and how casually he was brewing himself a cup of tea in your His Majesty's office, you doubt that this is one of the instances where he forced Emperor Kunikuzushi to maintain good relations with the Liyue Empire (it goes without saying that alone, His Majesty will probably call the other nobles "cretins"). You doubt he was aware of the letter's contents either and if so, then this letter was either personal or…

To my very lovely Lady Feiyun,

It is a shame that slapping sense into a monarch is charged as treason and is punishable by death. Albeit in print, you could almost see the ink bleeding in his signature mocking tone. How grating… And yet, you couldn't help the curve on your lips as your eyes silently followed the trail of his thoughts.

Countess Yun has been kind enough to update me of the affairs you have been handling while I am away fighting this boring war. While it pales in comparison to your intriguing plight, I am, with much shame, dallying around in my throne as we are forced in another bout of this unfortunate stalemate. I must say, I have to applaud your father for being able to force back Snezhnayan troops once more despite the growing unease in your Empire. Then again, I suppose control of money is a war in and of itself. In that case, would it only be fair for us to consider him a veteran in this field?

Your father… a war veteran? You almost spat at the thought. With all considerations made, such a title might be better suited for your mother who at least had some semblance of training in the field of martial arts. But, of course, it is not to discount his talents and foresight when it comes to political games. In that regard, he truly is a genius.

But I have learned from you that there are silver linings to everything. Are you proud of me? I expect the one and only right answer from your lips the next time we meet in person. Regardless, the abundance of spare time I have on my hands has been primarily used in reading historical records in the archives. You would be delighted to hear that I found something that might be of importance about that—of dragons and serpents.

You couldn't help but sit up as you reread that line. You even almost forgot yourself and where you were until you doublechecked to see if the Ambassador noticed your behavior and had plans to inquire. Thankfully—or not—would it even matter at this point? He did not seem to be interested or if he was, he seemed to respect your disinterest in expounding.

Simply put, the war five hundred years ago that caused the destruction of the nation of Khaenri'ah is related to the dragons' existence. A contract was made, spearheaded by the Emperor of Liyue at that time, between Inazuma and Snezhnaya. In it, they have agreed to provide the majority of the expenses for the war and in turn, supply the majority of the resources to ensure their 'victory' for the 'greater good.' Whatever that means, I do not know but one of those in my retinue have acquaintances in Mondstadt and a quick talk with the veterans confirm that Mondstadt, Sumeru, Natlan, and Fontaine only participated in the war to not earn the three empires' ire. It is only my opinion, albeit that should already hold quite the weight, but further exploration of this investigative lead might be worth our time.

The scrunch on your brows was apparently deep enough for the Ambassador to push a steaming cup of tea closer to you. After which, he had shrugged innocently before making a dramatic show of opening a book he snatched from one of the shelves.

On this note, I would like to ask about your thoughts on temporarily putting a pause to our conquest against Snezhnaya. At least, until we have found the answers to this strange event. It would be tragic if we end up killing off the people who might be of help to us. I have already convinced my court of this movement and I have also spoken about this with your father. However, I imagine that he would ask for your opinion sooner or later and I was thinking of beating him to it just in case that this would lead to a more favorable decision. This is our war, after all.

You have long ceased to care about Snezhnaya (well, mostly) as the more you learn of the truth, the more that it became clear that they were only pawns in this game. That is not to be mistaken for forgiveness. One day, they will pay their dues. However, if you must choose between which of the two is better dismantled first—Khaenri'ah and Snezhnaya—you believe that the choice has already been made from the moment the proposition was brought up. If he believes that a ceasefire was what would benefit your cause, then so be it.

I await your response to this. Hopefully by the time I arrive there (which would be soon), everything has been finalized and we would be able to have a chat with the ever-mysterious Tsaritsa without a blade to our necks.

"My lady," you flinch at the sudden firmness wrapping around your wrist. Looking up, you could only gape as you notice the coldness and sharp seriousness on his face. The lack of smile on his lips was disconcerting and you never realized how often he smiled until you are chasing after even the most threatening versions of it.

"Ambassador…?"

"How long has your bracelet been this color?"

The sheer suffocating atmosphere he managed to force into the room with a mere drop of his voice was awestriking… is what you would have thought had you not been stricken dumb as his grip tightened further albeit still not enough to hurt you.

"I… am not sure?" You reply before shaking your head apologetically, "You must be disappointed that I have not been taking care of your gift b-but worry not, it's not like it looks tarnished or anything! I-I will still wear it often…?"

Frankly, you thought it was an intended gimmick at first. Color-changing gems depending on the temperature had been a trend in high society these days. However, even as you moved from one place to another, the turned ruby red stones did not return to its original cerulean hues. You had wanted to have it checked but with the enormous piles of paperwork to deal with (that have been pushed into your hands by your own traitorous father), you forgot about it until he brought it up again.

"That's not important…" You didn't think it possible but his expression grew darker. "You might not know it but that bracelet is a charmed tool used by the Shuumatsuban operatives. It was casted by the shrine maidens of Narukami Island themselves and…"

You urged him to continue with your eyes when he lapsed into grim silence.

"It is meant to act as protection against mind-reading magic but it can only be used once, hence, the changing colors."

The scowl it produced from your lips was almost immediate. "So… You mean to say that someone tried to look into my thoughts?"

At his continuing silence, a long groan slips out of your lips. Somehow, the muscles in your shoulders and neck seemed to gain new aches. How is it possible that you're facing all sorts of challenges everywhere you look?

"Rest assured, it should be easy to narrow down our suspects. Mind-reading magic is special. Direct contact between the caster and the target must first be established before it can be casted."

"This helps how?" You deadpanned. "Do you know how many people I had to meet since you last gave me this?"

His brows lift a little. "Is that right? And here I was assuming that you would be adverse to touch from strangers…"

"Please don't tell me you're jealous." You frown distastefully as you recount all the times you have been at the receiving end of such comments (no matter how teasing it was meant to be).

"Why would I ever be jealous?" He laughs before leaning over the table to reach you—lithe fingers rubbing at a stray lock of your hair. "I can do so much more and be not at the receiving end of your wrath, no?"

The breath was knocked out of your throat as you feel his palm move to the side of your cheek. His straying thumb ghosted stripes over your bottom lip, no doubt smudging the lipstick your handmaiden had carefully drew for you.

It's laughable—truly, truly most humorous that you were reduced to such a state with a simple maneuver. You cannot seem to avert your eyes from the sultry state of his lidded eyes, precariously hiding the depth within those lavender-blue eyes nor the amused, almost arrogant curve of his lips that still attempt to come off as "innocent."

"Ambassador," for your pride's sake, you ignore the shake in the warning you reply with.

Perhaps seeing through your masks, Ayato does not stop his ministrations. Instead, he made it a point to curve his eyes even further as he slowly brushed a knuckle over your pulse point—"I can hear your heart beat," "I can see through you," or something along the lines. You can hear his infuriating, all-knowing, and very coy voice in your head loud and clear. Why that makes you feel warm is a question you don't particularly want to find an answer to. After all, what kind of a pompous, pretentious person would you be if you say that you just adore admitting your weaknesses?

Curse him for being pretty.

As a breathy laugh escapes him (likely from feeling how hot your skin had become), you try your best to look as far away as you can from the gloss of his pink lips and that beauty mark of his. "…I do not see the difference, I am afraid. I am quite vexed by your ministrations all the same."

A snort leaves him and he finally halts his actions, withdrawing back to his side of the couch. Too similarly, you press your back closer to the edges of yours, breath finally returning albeit in a rushed, too obviously affected manner.

You hate it. You hate how he reminds you too much of someone. You hate how they're infecting your mind and hindering your thought process like some sort of contagious disease.

"…I jest, my lady. On a more serious note," his teasing demeanor swiftly transforms into a more solemn one. His tense smile makes you frown and your fingers itch at the thought of reaching for the hand idly placed on his knee to comfort him. "I'll have another one of this made for you as soon as possible but, in return, please—"

Was it just your imagination? As he placed emphasis on his words, his eyes seemed to grow darker—more narrowed even to match the sudden weight dragging on his voice.

"Please be safe. Do not put yourself in difficult positions. Do not be so stubborn and seek help if needed and do not get hurt. Can you do that for me?"

"…Being in danger is not on my to-do list." Your grimace intensifies. Yet, it is with much distaste that you have no choice in the matter. Like a magnet that can attract no metal, no anything but trouble, you are burdened by purposes you wish you had nothing to do with. In some way, is death not its own kind of mercy?

"…y lady? My lady?" You were startled by the sudden call and you blink, surprised by your own capacity to be surprised by how deep into your reminiscence you could fall into that you almost forgot where you were.

You hurriedly clear your throat. "My apologies. I did not mean to be lost in thought."

"Now, what am I supposed to think?" The guild master's voice dips into an almost whine. "How can your mind wander off to other people in my presence?"

"Does it matter?" If you rolled your eyes one more time, you are afraid that your pupils would never again see the light of day. "Anyway, I was wondering if you knew anything about a contract between Liyue, Inazuma, and Snezhnaya."

"…Hm. Interesting but I am afraid not."

"Is that right? A shame." You stir the umber liquid before taking a dainty sip on the porcelain cup. Your eyes crinkle as you peer at him through the rim and, after a smack of your lips, you smile. "What of Vago?"

"The Emperor?" He crosses his legs. "Why are you suddenly interested in history, much more, history you could read about in the library?"

"Let me rephrase: what do you know about Vago and his connections, the Saintess that was with him, or even, the dragon that blessed him?"

The guild master falls silent for a minute before adjusting his scarf carefully. "Nothing much. But I heard a thing or two from 'historians.' Granted, they're more storytellers than anything else but allegedly, the Saintess died a painful death. She passed on without 'her greatest dream materialized.'"

"A… dream?"

"Yes. Apparently, she lived miserably until she died. For what reasons, I do not know."

Your hair bobs with your nod and the teacup falls back into the saucer with a small clink. "May I offer a word of advice, guild master?"

"All of a sudden?" He smugly scoffs but otherwise motioning "go on" with his hand.

"Do not play poker..." Your lips twitch as you threw a hefty pouch of mora at him before standing up to see him off. "…Especially not against a fellow liar."

The tanned male parts his lip in surprise before frowning, intending to question your words further. However, before he could, a flash of deep purple had the both of you scrambling back, dodging the table that was sent flying by the force.

"Now… What do we have here?" The guild master snickers before adeptly parrying the long spear being jabbed at him.

It felt like an age before you could even begin to comprehend the bewildering sight being painted in front of you. Albeit everything was, in fact, happening within a few quick seconds, you were only just beginning to accept that the familiar freckled skinned man was real; That he was attempting to murder someone whom you were just negotiating with a few minutes prior and by how he was wielding his sharp blade as if on a frenzy, he was attempting to do so with much determination.

The guild master deftly spins away untouched as the silver spear darted forward once more. He is missing a shield, or a weapon of his own, and yet he did not appear to be losing with how he follows around the dangerous dance like the shadow beneath your feet. As you stumbled back from the two of them, tripping over a displaced candelabra in your hurry, you find some grotesque glory in how he blocked with his strength alone the flurry of attacks sent coming in his way.

Their skirmish lead them to your desk, throwing into the ground the paperwork you brought into your chambers and the half-filled glass of water you had placed there haphazardly. The shattering of the latter made a screaming noise and you dare to move your eyes away to spare a glance at the ominous doorway. Unless both the servants and the patrol guards coincidentally chose this time to laze around, it was impossible that no one was hearing how loud this fight has become. The perpetrator of this madness was wildly laughing and the 'victim' was receiving blow per blow with a deep, heavy grunt. You'd have to be more than deaf to not notice that something was amiss.

A sharp curse brought your attention back to the scene and you caught the way the spearhead slid up the side of the guild master's face with a swish, slicing through the thin black fabric and narrowly leaving a reddened scratch over flesh beneath. It was as if time had slowed, the half cut blindfold dropping to the ground to reveal periwinkle colored eyes and the distinct star-shaped pupil hidden beneath layer upon layer of lavender blues.

"I knew it…" the soldier hissed with a crazed grin. "A Khaenri'ahn."

You snap your head to the guild master in shock. Of course, you knew that his identity and what you knew of him were all probably false but that he was a Khaenri'ahn of all things? You wait for him to defend himself but he only grunts, covering his injured eye as he avoided an attempt to hack his skull open from his opponent.

"Did you come all the way here to confirm that?" The… unknown Khaenri'ahn threw a punch in return but missed as his offender stepped backward. Taking the split-second opportunity, he twists his body, catches the gold letter knife clattered to the left side of the desk and swung. He misses once more and so he switches hands and unleashes a few rapid attacks that forced the soldier to place some distance in between them.

He breathes through his teeth. "I came to seek answers." Then he shakes his head. "And to protect the lady from your devious plans."

In terms of strength, the guild master was massively overpowered. However, he was quite fast and so he had that going for him, you thought as the soldier found a way to circle around the Khaenri'ahn to push forth another attack—one that pierced through his long robe and into the carpeted floor, trapping the man in place if it weren't for his agile way of undoing the knots in front and ridding himself of the garment entirely. Immediately gathering his bearings, the tanned skinned man readied himself for another onslaught of attacks, one that was swiftly dealt by his opponent who fancily spun his spear before charging right in.

It went on like that for quite some time. They went back and forth, switching from defense to offense then back again as they moved round and round the messy room. They managed to send the chandelier crashing down and you nearly cut yourself on the fallen fragments when you crawled to hide behind the upturned coffee table. You had meant to escape but the door was still so far away from reach. With how quick they were to swing their blades, you began to wonder if it was safer to just hide than to risk running for the door when the rest of the world had disappeared from both men's mind.

You must say that it was amusing to see the guild master so quiet—so uncharacteristic of how he chattered your ear off on every occasion you met him. Not the soldier, however. He kept pressing for answers. "What have you planned for Snezhnaya?" He would ask mid-feint. "Why are you doing this?" The spearpoint would aim for the man's neck but only end up brush against it. "What on earth are you doing?!"

The silence was unnerving and so was the way the guild master was becoming sluggish with his motions. He'd die on this grounds, you think as you worried your lip. You had to begin thinking of excuses as to why someone was dead in your temporary room and why he was there in the first place. You see—the spear was at least ten times the length of the guild master's makeshift weapon. Only a fool would not see how the awkward distance made it difficult for the tanned male to fight back whereas the solder could easily do all of his fancy tricks.

"Answer me!" The solder charged once more and to your surprise, the guild master met him head on. He tilts his head to dodge the initial strike and without missing a beat, raised the knife and made a cut on his opponent's flushed cheek. You gasp at the first trickle of blood but it does not stop there as the soldier maneuvers himself to knee the guild master's abdomen, sending him staggering back. The second it gave him was spent brandishing his spear once more—an attack that was caught by the edge of the knife. Metal against metal kissed with an ear-splitting clang. They weren't in that stalemate for long. The guild master was weaker and so he ultimately threw himself to the side, rolling gracefully before shuffling to his feet once more.

"I have no answers to give you, rat."

You flinch at the darker, more sinister tone of his voice. It wasn't like him at all—but what was "him"? From your corner, you could see the voids in his gaze. They were akin abyssal blackholes in their noticeable destitution of clear emotions. It just swirled of fury and of some sort of deep-rooted hatred you'll only see on the wronged. On yourself.

The soldier whirled and met his gaze unflinchingly. As if by contrast, his eyes were light like summertime ocean waves. You can count the number of times he looked alive on one hand and for a split second, you wonder if he was better off dead if he looked this terrifying with life. There is something menacing with the child-like glee in the quirk of his lips—something portentous with the way he twirled his spear as if he was playing with garters. He narrows his eyes like some species of a a wild tiger, crouches, before darting forward once more with a war cry.

This was something the guild master had anticipated and so he readied his knife but what he didn't quite anticipate was for everything to be nothing but a feint. The soldier was many things and he was often a fool to played with but he is a smart fighter with even sharper instincts, if only a bit reckless. His body came slamming against his opponent's and the guild master stumbled under his weight.

The soldier—as swift as the lightning he had called his entrance—dug the spear into the guild master's arm, twisting it, before yanking it out. A blood-curling scream echoed in the room as blood spurted out. The small knife clattered to the ground, the soldier retreats a few steps back, and the guild master pressed into his wound with a hiss. Pained and tired, perhaps not used to fighting in the front lines, one of his knees buckled and he fell down.

"You'd be dead if it weren't for your talent for entertainment," he says with a manic gloss over his eyes and both you and the soldier stared him down with an unknown emotion. Was he really in a place to say that? "This once, I shall settle for something a little less. Still, I have to cut this meeting short. I must say… I look forward to witnessing a puppet's fate after it has cut himself free from the strings of his master."

Dark mist covers his body and with a blink, he was gone and before you could ponder his words, a muffled cry makes you jump. You did not recognize yourself and the way you hurried to his side, kneeling and taking his face in between shaking hands as you took in his form. He was unnaturally sweaty and pale, his eyes had an unfocused gleam and yet, he smiles for you—weak but alike those from knights when they present a symbol of their victory to their maidens.

You ache for him.

"Nice to see that you still worry for me, my lady."

"Now is not the time to kid, Ajax!" You seethe. "Anyone from a mile away can see that you've been poisoned!"

"Nothin' I can't handle," he slurred. Upon seeing you in a continued state of disbelief, Ajax huffs before leaning his head against your chest. His bright, auburn locks gently brushed against your lips and the familiar scent of cedar fills your senses. You forcibly shake yourself from nostalgia, reminding yourself of your current predicament. Tentatively, your hands move to cradle his head, pushing him back a little so you could examine his present constitution.

He really couldn't have done anything to convince you when he looked like that. Even paler skin, damp skin, glassy eyes with a faraway look into them—it was an understatement to say that he looked like he was an inch away from death. Subconsciously, your thumb brushes against the apples of his cheeks, watching with fascination as his eyes flutters into a close at the now-rare motion.

"Are you sure you are doing well?"

He nods, following your touch even as you attempt to draw away—much like a dog, to your own grotesque amusement. "Snezhnayan soldiers all undergo mithridatism [1]."

Something unpleasant settles in your gut as you hear of that, imagining a young Ajax indistinguishable among the row upon row of soldiers who held a cup of poison in their hands. It's not a rare practice per se. You reckon even the soldiers of your empire had to undergo such brutish traditions and yet, somehow, someway, you feel upset.

"A-Anyway," you clear your throat and his eyes open at the forming gravity on your tone. "How in the world did you even get here?"

"Your balcony," and to add insult to injury, he had the gall to innocently tilt his head to the direction of it.

"You know what I meant! You're supposed to be in prison! Underwater! And certainly not within the Imperial Palace of the people who had you imprisoned!"

Ajax blinks at your words.

Nearing the end of your patience, you suck in a breath before firmly digging your hands into his shoulders, forcing him to stare at you (not like he wasn't already). "How did you escape Byakuyakoku?"

"Easily." He shrugs before laughing weakly as he practically saw steam coming out of your ears at his nonchalant response. "It was not hard to figure out all of the alternating patrol routes of the guards based from their footsteps. The rest, you'll have to attribute to my training."

You worry your lip before continuing. "…But you were injured."

"That's my tenacity, then. Upon realizing that any attempt at torture was futile, they stopped making the effort to go into my cell. It has been quite some time since then. The injuries I had when you last saw me was naturally healed." He chuckles once more but it was cut off by a coughing fit. "…My apologies. As I was saying, the Snezhnayan doctors at the rendezvous point also played a deft hand on my recovery."

"…Was your escape part of your ploy? All this time?"

"Not entirely. I do not doubt that the rescue squad did not anticipate this turn of events either. However, is it wrong for them to hope for a miracle?"

"Outrageous," you mutter before drawing away. "Then, why have you come? Only a fool crawls back to his hunter after he has escaped her clutches."

He grins—that infuriatingly youthful, charming, all-teeth grin of his. "Well, I am a fool as you say."

You stare at him for a moment with that same indecipherable feeling in your chest swelling before whispering, "why have you come, Ajax?"

The two of you share a look, his smile turning just a tad bit more somber as he takes note of your expression. "Since I have decided to be as honest as I can be the last we met, I suppose there is no point in delaying this matter any further."

"I need to find out the truth for myself." He winces as he attempts to stand up from how he has been kneeling all this time on the carpeted floor. "What Khaenri'ah is after. How they plan to go about it. As a soldier, I have to determine all these facts and plan a counterattack lest they attempt to drag Snezhnaya down once more."

"A noble cause—but one that does not relate howsoever from my inquiry."

His smile drops a little. "Frankly, intelligence gathering is far from being my strongest suit so I had to make some… minute changes to the plan to better accommodate me and my prowess."

"…And that is?"

"Surely you must have realized that their forces have now been redistributed and Liyue is now their primary target—not Snezhnaya nor Inazuma?" At your small hum of affirmation, Ajax continues. "Well, I thought to myself, 'what better way to know how strong the winds are blowing than to throw yourself into the eye of the storm?'"

An aghast scoff slips out of your throat instinctively. "The only thing I am getting from this entire conversation is that your logic is flawed! Too flawed, in fact!"

"Perhaps. But my lady, I was hoping that you would be interested in joining hands with me."

"Really? With the enemy?" Your face darkens. "It's either you've taken me as a fool like you or your time in prison has truly driven you past the windows of sanity!"

"I am aware you talk business so allow me to speak your language. As they say, 'when in Liyue, do as Liyuens do.'" He leans closer, urging—and very much distracting. His warm breath fans over your lips and you have to dig creases into your sleepwear to appear as nonchalant as he was shamelessly acting. "In exchange for your aid, the Tsaritsa is willing to share what she knows with your camp."

You quirk a brow. "Just like that?"

"You pay for gold with gold, no?"

"…This will have to be discussed with others. For now, surrender—"

"No can do." A sickeningly bright (and obviously fake) smile comes to his face. "I cannot protect you from behind bars now, can I?"

"Now what is this that I'm hearing? Why in the world would I need your protection?" He makes a move to reply but this time, it was you who sharply cuts him off. "Must I remind you that I have hundreds lined up who are willing to die for me?"

"Are they really of use if they aren't even aware that you have been sneaking around and meeting the head of an information guild who, must I remind you, was a Khaenri'ahn?"

You shoot him a glare at his jab. "Pour more salt into the wound, can't you?"

"My sincerest apologies but I suppose I have to sell myself a little. I've worked with these sorcerers before. I not only stand a better chance against them but I also know how to spot them better than the average soldier." You couldn't help but roll your eyes at the appearance of his smug grin. How he is able to maintain such an attitude while actively having poison running in his veins is beyond you, truly. "Case in point."

"Regardless of your personal and official reasons, I have neither power nor authority to give you your freedom—"

"And neither am I asking for it. Rather, I am simply informing you that I will not be in your prison cells anytime soon and that our offer stands."

"…And I believe that you have emphasized that enough."

You flinch. Immersed in your conversation with Ajax, you didn't hear the door creak open to reveal the unamused form of the scribe. His cold, sharp eyes scanned the state of your room before falling to your form. For some reason, you feel small under the weight of his stare and there's the lingering feeling of shame as if he had just caught you doing something immoral—in which he has not.

"Ah, the childhood friend." Ajax smiles, the lilt of his voice welcoming yet taunting at the same time, as he stands to his feet. He stares Alhaitham down for a brief second before tipping his head cordially. "I have heard many stories of you. It's a pleasure to finally meet you."

"The displeasure is mine."

You warily eyed Alhaitham's stoic expression and the unflinching way he met Ajax's stare. There was at least some credit due. Not everyone can stare at the living incarnation of the devil itself and treat it like any bright and jolly day. Still, something about this stand-off was unnerving to you and you sneakily withdrew to yourself lest you be dragged into the middle of things.

"Oh? And where is this animosity stemming from?"

"You of all people should know that you are the last person who should be buzzing around Her Ladyship. For all of our best interests, you should leave."

"'Best interests?' Now, who are you to decide that? Did she tell you herself?" Ajax snarls in response and for a split second—a mirage caused by the heat and sparks exchanged in their tense dialogue—you thought you saw his teeth flash like a prowling animal with a heavy threat. "If not, then I'm afraid that I would have to reject your request."

"I know Her Ladyship better than you could ever hope of knowing her," came the scribe's quick retort and this time, you see a unique calmness yet authoritative depth to the way he casually crosses his arms as if to further rub the unspoken taunt onto his opponent's face. "In all manners one can know someone."

Laughing nervously at the tightness on Ajax's jaw and the not-so-discrete way he dug blunt crescents on his gloved palm and at the precarious state of your own safety as who knows what Alhaitham would say next (you'd call yourself more doomed than doomed if he even did so much as imply what he had figured out about your existence with the irritatingly gigantic mind of his), you step in between the two men who immediately relaxed, if only by a little, as they saw your anxious form.

"N-Now, everyone. A lady's chambers is hardly the right place to start looking for fights!" You clear your throat before plastering a smile on your face, patting Alhaitham's chest placatingly before you draw back to yourself. "What have you come here for, Alhaitham?"

He sends you a knowing look but ultimately decides to play along, acting out his role much better than you have with his innate aloofness. "I've come with news."

"And pray tell, what news would excuse you barging into a lady's room in the middle of the night?" Ajax drawls out mockingly much to Alhaitham's inner chagrin.

"News that do not concern you, the worse of us two who have intruded on Her Ladyship's time alone."

"Never mind that—and him—Alhaitham. What do you have to share with me?"

Once more, your friend sighs but this time more so out of defeat. "I found out where Alethea lived."

Notes:

[1] — Administering small dosages of poison to one's self in order to build immunity. All soldiers of the Snezhnayan Empire commits to this practice during their training period.

[ DIRECTOR'S NOTES ] — The holidays destroyed my sense of time and I didn't realize it was already January 5. My apologies... On a separate note, as early as now, I'd like to announce that I will be posting a Q&A chapter after the completion of the main story. If there are questions you want to ask, you may comment or dm me as early as now (in ko-fi or twt, my handles are the same as here in ao3). You can ask anything: from the fates of the characters in either timelines, inspirations, writing process, future projects, etc. I'll do my best to answer your queries!

Chapter 21: SHÍ LIÙ — A VENOMOUS INVITE, AN INNOCUOUS FLIGHT.

Chapter Text

"Where are you going?" His eyes scanned you from head to toe, probably questioning your choice of attire once more. Last he saw you wearing a commoner's clothes, you sneaked out from the Feiyun manor and wandered around like a lost little lamb in the streets of no man's land. Granted, the occasion is really not too different from then given how you are technically sneaking out of the Imperial Palace's grounds to go somewhere… questionable? You're not quite sure how to describe that place either.

Baron Trifolium stood—awkwardly but graceful nonetheless in his ever solid composure—as you pondered over your response. The last thing you wanted was for the General to be even more warier of you in the landmine of a place you've temporarily settled in. "Well… I am off to investigate a personal matter?"

"You do not sound convinced of yourself either, my lady."

"You know—" an incredulous huff escapes you as you shifted your weight from one leg to another, crossing your arms for good measure—"I wonder how you manage to remain unscathed with that horrendously foul tone of your speaking."

"I wonder the same for you, my lady, but do not believe for a second that I am remiss to not notice your attempt to change the topic of conversation."

"Why do you even care?"

Alatus sends an indiscrete look towards the man beside you. "It would be foolish not to when you are with a sorcerer."

"How thorough of you," you scoff before giving him a rundown of your predicament. A quick look to the skies told you that precious time was running out. Soon, dawn would break and you would have to escape twice the amount of prying eyes on your way back to your chambers. It was better to quit stalling and be done with it.

The situation was this: Alhaitham had asked his senior (who apparently owed him a favor after he allowed him to rent a room in his place) to look into the files related to the publication of Alethea's book directly after he had… confronted you of your "condition." That was about a week and a half ago and it was only yesterday that he replied. His senior didn't find the original copy of the application form but he did find an acceptance and proof of archival letter which was returned to the House of Daena's office as there was no one at the residence around the time of delivery.

You really weren't expecting a lot. If the author wasn't there, it was only one of the two: either they were elsewhere coincidentally or they had vacated the place for reasons unknown. Your gut was telling you that it was the latter and who were you to distrust it when it had saved you a great many times? If it were true, chances are that their belongings have been cleared out but it would probably still be smart to see it for yourself in case they missed something.

The reason the Baron was with you was because you needed to know whether there is or there isn't any form of magical interference at the place. He was also quite the intelligent man, as proven many times in your business partnership, and so you figured that it would help to have him tag along in case there's some puzzle you have to decode. You'd also bring along Alhaitham for the same reason but unfortunately… Well, Ajax had to appear and you have to stash him somewhere until you had time to properly deal with him. You have much to verify about its veracity but you once read in a book that there is no safer place to be but at the presence of your enemy (since you have no need to doubt their intentions). The circumstances might be different but you don't doubt that Alhaitham would keep a careful eye on him for you. The only variable left to consider is Ajax's satisfaction in your half-assed deal. Hypothetically speaking, so long as you manage to convince His Majesty, Emperor Morax of your and His Majesty, Emperor Kunikuzushi's plan by tomorrow, he wouldn't do something outrageous nor would he plan to escape from the scribe's watchful eye prematurely either. Of course, that is all in theory; it's not like you have it in you to predict the intensity of his recklessness.

Ah, the mere thought was giving you a headache.

"…Which is why we are off to Alethea's last known location at the present." You finish telling the General the events that lead to this—minus, of course, Ajax's role in the picture.

"I see…" His eyes drop to the ground as he falls into steep thought. You make a move to question him but as if sensing your inquiry, he speaks once more. "Allow me to accompany you, my lady."

"…Excuse me?"

"It would do you well to have another layer of security and set of working hands. But more importantly…" Alatus trails off and to your surprise, Albedo picks up after him after a long instance of silence.

"I suppose the General is curious of what we will find as well, my lady."

He grunts in affirmation. "This concerns the history of the Liyue Empire. I am sure that His Majesty would like to be informed of this matter."

"How ridiculously loyal…" You mutter under your breath before raising both hands in defeat. "Very well. It's not like I have any reason to hide. Of course, whether or not this is a worthwhile lead is to be seen. Do not point your finger at me if this venture ends up to be an utter waste of time and effort."

"That would not be a concern."

The Baron clears his throat before gesturing at the incoming carriage. "Then, if we are all in agreement, shall we go?"

The both of you nod in reply and when the horses slowed to a stop, the General opens the door for you and Albedo, being the last to board and settling across the Baron, closest to the door's handle. You couldn't help but be in awe at the sight of him actually and wordlessly doing his job. Really, you almost forgot that he was the General who has been the definition of a perfect soldier for quite some time because of how he treated you like any of his other colleagues for better or for worse.

You're also a bit discombobulated to realize that the sight was a bit off-putting. You'd much prefer it if he remained as casual as he usually was but then again, that might just be another one of your random whims. Who's to say at this point?

"It's a good thing that Alethea's place is close to the Palace." Your head snaps up to meet Albedo's thoughtful gaze. "It saves us some time and, should there be a need for it, it would be easier to provide an acceptable excuse."

The Baron was the last person you'd expect to break the inevitable awkward silence that should've consumed the entirety of the carriage ride and yet, there he was. Judging by the inquisitive turn of General Alatus' gaze, you believe that it's safe to assume he shares the same opinion as you—something that you merely shrugged at. "An excuse such as?"

"Perhaps you needed to get away from the Palace, unused to the chaos inside. I suggested a walk outside the Palace would help but we ended up bumping into Sir Alatus who offered to escort us."

"You are quite the storyteller, Baron," the General says.

"Not at all," and as he replies so, he shakes his head as if to affirm it, pushing strands of his flaxen locks to brush over the navy blue of his overcoat. "But I must've picked up a thing or two from an author friend of mine, Zhenyu."

At his words, you perk up. "Zhenyu, you say? I'm rather fond of their works. While 'A Legend of Sword' may be their magnum opus, I cannot help but adore 'The Gift.' Have you read it, Sir Alatus?"

"…I am afraid not."

"Well, you should." The corners of your lips lift softly as you avert your gaze to the passing sceneries. "It seems like the kind of tale that you would like. Chock-filled with moral dilemmas overcome by the absolute justice and honor of a protagonist who chose to use his 'gift' to chase after the greater good."

"I didn't take you as one who will adore such protagonists, my lady," Albedo interjects and you couldn't help but chuckle.

"You wouldn't be wrong to think so. Usually, I'd find such persons pretentious or foolish but since it is all fictitious, I do not see the need to be so uptight with my real beliefs. Besides, aren't we all inclined to believe in the impossibly hopeful landscapes of the unreal as a response to our devastating realities?"

"…Hm."

You roll your eyes almost teasingly. "If you have something to add, you may go ahead freely, General."

"It's nothing," came his gruff reply and after a split second reluctance, he continues, "perhaps I simply did not expect you to have some semblance of romanticism in your person."

"Hah… That's certainly one way to put it."

Both men exchange a look as you don't add onto your words as expected. This time, it was Alatus who clears his throat and breaks the silence. "Nevertheless, the Baron's suggestion works well enough for me."

"I also have no further suggestions." You hum before pausing, sending a perplexed look at Alatus who raises a brow in turn. "Wait. Correct me if I am wrong, General, but is it not His Majesty, Emperor Morax who remodeled the Noctilucous Street into a residential district?"

"I believe so?"

Albedo tilts his head. "Is something wrong?"

"Then, would it not be impossible for this Alethea to be residing in this place how many years ago?"

At your words, the three of you fall into a strained and contemplative quietude. However, before any of you can think on it further, the carriage draws into a halt. Alatus pushes the curtain a tad to peek at your surroundings. It was quiet—which was to be expected, given the time of night and its close vicinity to the administrative offices of the Empire. Even so, you find it a little too eerie. Had you not known any better, perhaps you'd even call this a ghost town. There was little to no sign of life in the street and the flickering street lamps did not help the horror stories your mind was quickly conjuring.

The two men whisper to each other something as Albedo points at the house a few meters away from where you all were located. Its exterior was no different from the other traditional houses on the street but you must say that it was much smaller, only roughly half the size of most. The beige, cemented walls looked freshly repainted and the plants on the windowsill, while slightly overgrown, looked healthy. The steps leading to the sliding entrance were in a similar condition—missing the mud and moss of an abandoned building but littered with dried leaves from the nearby pine tree. These factors point to one thing:

"Someone has been taking care of this place," Alatus mutters under his breath but in this enclosed space, even a whisper sounds like a shout.

"It doesn't seem like it is someone's residence, however," the Baron adds with a pensive glaze of his usually clear eyes. "If it was, they would've made the effort to pick up the papers."

"Papers?" You lean closer to catch a glimpse at where he is pointing at.

"Most high-end residential areas have the newspapers delivered straight to the residents' doorsteps but judging from how there's a pile by the corner at the back, I'd estimate that there hasn't been anyone here for at least a week."

"...If someone frequents here, should we not barge in after all?" Your knee subconsciously bounces. "If we're somehow seen by the neighbors, we have no means of slipping away as free people."

"You, yourself, have told me of how important this matter might be. Why are you getting cold feet all of a sudden?"

Not appreciating the snarky tone of the General, you shot him a glare. "Have you forgotten that we are not ordinary people? You are an esteemed and well-known figure in Liyue's military whilst I am the eldest daughter of the acting emperor! What would people think if they saw us kicking their neighbor's front door open?"

"Who said anything about…?!" He sighs deeply before massaging the bridge of his nose. After a second or so, he looks at you with thinly-veiled irritation. "We can circle around. At this angle, there should be a couple of blind spots. We'll break through the window."

"Or better yet, allow me to unlock it with a simple spell."

You both gape at the blinking sorcerer. "You can do that?"

"Yes?"

"Why did you not say so earlier?" The General silently grumbled before leading the way out.

"You did not ask and it did not cross my mind to flaunt my skillset."

You gave him a weird look before accepting his outstretched hand and exiting the carriage. "…Thank you."

Alatus motions for all of you to hide behind a thick bush as the carriage draws away. Sure enough, the doors of a neighboring house slid open to reveal an elderly man in servants' clothing. He swishes his lantern left and right for a second, lingering before shaking his head and retreating back inside. You count another ten more seconds before slowly inching towards Alethea's house, making sure to avoid the dead leaves and sticking to the walls where shadows were thick. You're certain you almost lost balance once or twice but the men who were keeping you in between them—Alatus to your front and Albedo to your rear—were quick to assist you in stabilizing yourself. Honestly, you're not so surprised at the General's quick reflexes but you are with the Baron's.

Eventually, you reached your destination and Albedo uttered a small chant before you hear the tell-tale sign of the lock clicking open. He carefully slides the window to the right before moving to jump inside. However, before he could, Alatus places a firm hand on his shoulder, gesturing to let him go first. Understanding his wariness, Albedo nods and retreats closer to you, keeping a hand on your wrist as he makes you stay behind him in case something was amiss.

The General's swift and skilled jump inside was quiet and before long, you could no longer see him from your position as he went further into the darkness to check for other parties. You cannot deny the deafening percussions of your heart or the anxious bitemarks on your skin as you nibbled on it. You're confident in both of these men's fighting prowess but any direct confrontation is bound to cause a commotion and no matter how much you looked left and right, there was no clear and sure escape route for all of you to take. If it ever came to that, no matter the result of the fight, you were all doomed.

Time seemed to trickle uncomfortably slow but eventually, the General emerged back into view. Both you and the Baron couldn't help but exhale before nodding at the silent signal of the soldier. Like before, the men assisted you in jumping at the nearby crates and, with a sharp breath, you leaped inside. Before you can even land, strong arms catch you by the waist. You feel them wind around you tighter for a split second before the General's hair gently tickled your exposed collarbones. All the while, you could only blink in shock (for some reason, the memory of his golden eyes, complete with the specks of deep, earthly brown sharply illuminated by the moonlight seemed to be imprinted on your mind) as he took a step back, keeping his gloved palms on your waist for a second longer in case you were still unsteady on your feet.

"…Thank you…" You coughed, hurriedly avoiding his gaze and choosing to watch as the Baron landed on the balls of his feet without help.

You feel his sharp gaze remain on your face for a second longer before he, too, looks far away—probably to the crescent moon that was no longer hidden by the clouds. "…No problem."

"We managed to enter smoothly—" Albedo pauses mid-sentence to curiously look at you and the General back and forth. "…Did something happen?"

"Nothing of the sort." You slide your palm instinctively over the creases on your blouse.

"Let's move. Time is running. Baron, is there a way you can light this place without making use of candle wax?"

"Ah, of course. We cannot say for sure how attentive to the details the owner of this place is. It is better to be safe." As he says that, his lashes fluttered with the close of his eyes. A second later, small orbs of light came to life from nothing, slowly dispersing and floating all around you like fireflies that were just a bit more brighter and larger. "Will this do?"

"It's perfect. Thank you, my lord." You smile, still looking around in poorly hidden awe at the curious sight. Truth be told, despite you and the Baron being in relatively close partnership for quite some time already, you have not seen him in action this close and personal before. After all, most of your joint projects required research and findings, not extensive showmanship like this.

Speaking of…

"Is this made with black magic as well?"

Your question made the sorcerer pause before shaking his head. "Black magic, unlike other forces, is man-made. However, anything artificially manufactured must have natural foundations. Khaenri'ahn mages are separated from the rest primarily because they can wield both artificial and natural modes of magic."

"…Khaenri'ah?" The General whispers from behind you to which you only sighed.

"Long story. Ask it from your lord, not from myself."

You don't bother waiting for a reply, opting to look around. Judging from the décor, you would assume that you conveniently landed inside the study. It's quaint and certainly nowhere close to what you were used to both inside and outside the Palace's walls but it was certainly well-organized. There is not a single space cluttered and your overthinking mind proposed the idea of it being purposely kept that way to make unwanted prying easier to discover.

"It will take far too long to search the entire premises." And the General was right. The house looked small from the outside but there being only three of you and with the careful way you must go about your investigation, you doubt you could thoroughly search more than two rooms before you have to return.

"Perhaps we could start with that." Albedo points at an unassuming long drawer below the bookshelf. "There's something with a gigantic amount of mana inside there. Being this close is enough to send an average mage into a dizzy spell."

"So you do not count yourself as average?" "Do you think it is a trap?"

You glance at the General who was frustratedly trying to bite his tongue lest he spills some unfriendly words. You were serious about this, you swear, but you couldn't help but poke fun at your horribly easy companions who were basically asking for it.

"…I believe that I have my strengths and weaknesses and…" Albedo clears his throat. "I cannot say for certain, General."

"Can't you see inside without opening it?"

"I am a sorcerer, not a god."

You shrug as you easily came to the General's defense for once. "You opened a lock."

"It was made of metal—a subset of the earth element."

"A shame, then." A defeated slouch weighs your posture. "I say we open it last. If it is a trap, then we can just abandon everything and run."

"I see…. Then should we split up and start looking for clues independently?" Albedo ends up frowning as he thinks the situation over.

Alatus mirrors him. "That will cover more ground…"

"Yes, yes, let's do just that and waste no more time. I'd say many would keep information… In the study, in the master's bedroom, or perhaps, in the living room, no?"

The two utter words of agreement and within the next few seconds, you divided the tasks amongst yourselves. Albedo opted to stay in the study in case he had to hold off the mana 'bomb' (a figurative term you used because it felt like it though you cannot say for sure either that it truly isn't a bomb) while Xiao had chosen the living room which was the most vulnerable to attacks. That, of course, left you with the bedroom which… might not have been the best of all the options seeing as you're convinced that the mere sight of a bed will make you fall into a deep sleep with your current level of fatigue.

Biting back a yawn, you slid the bedroom door open to reveal a very basic layout. On the far right against the wall was a long mahogany cabinet with a potted bonsai tree on top as decoration. It reached somewhere around your waist which was just a smidge higher than the small square-shaped coffee table across it. It was accented by some masterful swirls in the woodwork below the ledge which matched the designs of the two chairs that came with it as a set. The make was reminiscent of old Liyuen dynasties' but the state of the varnish on the furniture lead you to believe that they were at best, mere mimics. What truly drew your artistic eye was the folding screen behind one of the chairs. The design itself was rather common—an oriental piece with Huangshuan Pine Trees, flowering pink plants, a pair of wide, graceful cranes, a pale rushing river, and two colorfully-clothed courtesans by its bank. Now, you're by no means an expert but you've learned a thing or two from the Countess. The brushwork and the thematic positioning of the artwork was unlikely the work of some random bloke at that time. It could only be done by a genius and you were sure that their work would catch quite a large sum if you were to say so yourself.

Your escaping wits was not unnoticed by you and so, you quickly shook your head, slapping your cheeks once for good measure as you began snooping into the shelf drawers. Immediately, you were greeted by a pile of documents. They were yellowed and smelling of the musty scent of old books. You thumb at the corners and, as expected, the contents were by no means helpful. Most were just newspaper clippings or old project proposals that had a massive red mark over it that read 'rejected.' You're surprised it was still stored, really. With all things considered, you don't think you could stand to be anywhere close near the most vivid and foolproof evidence of your failure.

"Hm? What's this…?" You reach into one of the darker corners where something had rolled into as you rummaged over small tokens and souvenirs from just about everywhere you could think of. Poking your tongue into the flesh of your cheek, your fingers first graze over the smooth metal surface of the object before you managed to trap it under your joints. You pull it out and you could only stare in mild surprise as you're met with the familiar sign of the Imperial stamp—too similar with Ganyu's to be a mere coincidence.

Before you could inspect it further, a loud clang from the study made you jump, the stamp clattering to the floor where it bounced and rolled, only stopping when it hits a wooden plank that was slightly more lifted than the others. Had you not looked down on purpose, you probably would've tripped over it. You shake your head twice. Small miracles.

Now, it'd be really cliché if something was hidden underneath it so obviously and you'd be disappointed if this was the best the author of such a well-written book could come up with but… it was better to check just in case their work truly was not a reflection of their person. You can never be too sure about the extent of one's stupidity, after all.

Instinctively, you peer over your shoulder before crouching to properly make an attempt in dislodging the out-of-place wood from the rest of the flooring. To your surprise, that effort went without a hitch and it was only when you lifted it up that you realized that it was missing one nail and the other that was still there was both crooked and short. Tossing it to the side, you hesitantly reached for the palm-sized black leather journal that was previously hidden. Unlike most of the things in the room, it was showing signs of wear—a few patches on the skin already peeling and rough to the touch.

Actually, that was strange. How come everything seemed to be in pristine condition? It was almost as if it was deliberately… You bit your lip at the thought, storing the assumption away for future reference in favor of focusing with what you have in your hands. Carefully, with the care of an artisan for their freshly shaped clay pottery, you crack the notebook on its first page where you see a bunch of names of various origins crossed out with chicken scratches save for one; on the lower left corner reads 'Alethea' with a small annotation of 'verity' encircled messily thrice. Whoever had done so seemed to be so fond of the word that they had to put that much emphasis on its meaning.

"'Alathea...'" You whisper as you turn to the next page. "What made you choose such a pseudonym?"

Instead of seeing random notes, you see a date scribbled on the top most ruled line: March 18, though it was missing a year to match it with. Regardless, it seemed that the following pages were all entries about their day-to-day life.

March 18

The life of an Imperial secretary is as tiring as always. I want to quit. If only I was born rich.

A brow raises. You're not sure what you expected from the person behind Alethea but it certainly wasn't this.

March 19

The life of an Imperial secretary is as tiring as always. I want to quit. If only I was born rich.

Whatever happened on March 19th must have angered the secretary to the point of damn nearly poking holes through the poor piece of paper. Admittedly, you were somewhat curious but with no further clues to hold onto, you opted to stop wasting your time over baseless speculations and turned to the next page.

March 20

The life of an Imperial secretary is as tiring as always. I want to quit. If only I was born rich.

You feel your eye twitch as you wondered just how eventless this person might have lead that they merely wrote the same thing over and over again for a daily journal. Out of sheer wonder, you skimmed through the next few pages. Sure enough, a good fifteen more pages were filled with the same lines.

April 4

I was out on an errand when I saw a man following me. Or, at least, I believe he was. I am quite certain that I have yet to see him anywhere. On the virtue of giving him the benefit of the doubt (and on the virtue of honoring his, and only for the lack of better words, divine appearance), I decided to ignore him.

April 5

I saw the man again but this time, he initiated a conversation with me. He didn't tell me his name, only that he was a coroner at Wangsheng Funeral Parlor. He asked me a few peculiar questions, to which I have no answers to. From what I could understand from he told me, he was handling a particularly odd case about a foreign businessman. I heard not of his name so I reckon he was not influential enough to be recognized by the Palace. While there is no further need to meddle in small-time affairs, I find myself sympathetic for the stranger's plight. Dealing with foreigners is so troublesome.

Hu Tao had once infiltrated a funeral parlor at your behest a long, long time ago because you wanted to know if the family of the deceased businesswoman, Baishi, had any intention of auctioning her limited edition emerald necklace. Now, she only stayed there for a short period of time but you and her both learned enough to ascertain that investigating clients' deaths were far from being part of the job description.

And sure, perhaps funeral parlors aren't the most open with publicly sharing their traditions and rites but surely, Alethea was smart enough to at least realize that there was something odd about this stranger? Even a child would know that randomly following and talking to a person, especially of such a high stature, is both wrong and disrespectful.

April 8

A small noise of confusion leaves you. It was the first time Alethea skipped writing for a few days. It was out of character seeing as she had chosen to repeatedly write the same thing again and again instead of not writing at all.

I asked someone to secretly investigate the strange man just in case. What's odd is that he was telling the truth. The coroner is a coroner and the current client is a Snezhnayan businessman. His cause of death is uncertain but something must have stricken the coroner as odd for him to go against his duties and interfere with the affairs of the dead.

I have done my best but in the end, I cannot stifle this godforsaken curiosity of mine. I have asked him to meet with me tomorrow. I hope I can finally find a conclusion to this tale so I could go back to my horribly boring but otherwise peaceful life.

April 9

Something is strange with the coroner but I cannot pinpoint what.

He had asked for my help in investigating the matter. Logically and had I been acting like myself, I would have swiftly denied such an outrageous request. However, my gut was telling me that something was wrong and before I knew it, I had instead asked him for some time to think it over. He agreed then proceeded to tell me the most outrageous tale:

A long time ago, dragons ruled the earth with their unparalleled control over the elements. Humans, despite created with the likeness of the gods, could never compare to their raw strength. Threatened by these beasts, the gods cursed them with a disease that turned their own bodies against them. Of course, the cycle of vengeance is doomed to face a fate of perpetuity. The dragons, who can no longer touch the gods, instead cursed the closest thing to them: humanity before disappearing from the face of the world. The doomed humans were driven mad for some reason.

The coroner seems to believe that this is the merchant's cause of death, citing that he showed signs of exhibiting similar symptoms when he was alive. 'The dead may have their secrets but they cannot tell lies,' he said and what a strange proverb to use in this scenario. What is even stranger is that he doesn't seem to believe that this is the full picture. He kept muttering about things I cannot deign to comprehend and would sometimes grow wistful. I checked the registry and found out that we are of the same age but he certainly does not act like it. To me, he feels much closer to a grandfather who has seen many things he shouldn't have seen.

What a truly a peculiar one.

Someone knew of Dragonsbane outside of the royal family? Your brows furrow as your grip tightens on the journal. How would a mere coroner know something so… Well, how did the Emperor know about it as well? Too surprised by the information you just heard then, you had not thought of pausing and thinking about it either. Deciding to fight back the bewilderment for now, you continued reading. Alethea skipped some dates again. The next entry was…

April 13

I ended up agreeing—whether that is because I am missing some adventure in my life or because of his persuasive face and manner of speaking, well, that is to be seen.

The coroner seems to want to let His Highness know about this but I quickly shut down that idea. To say this might be a ticket to the basement prison (or maybe to my death), however, this journal has never been for anyone else's eyes but myself. Anyway, His Highness is an incompetent, spoiled, idiotic piece of trash. I've seen street children with more capacity to care about others than he does. He is the reason why working at the Palace is such a drag. Even if what the coroner (he goes by Auri as I have come to learn) says is true, His Highness would not help. 'Help' is expensive after all, and he and his wife have much to luxuries to pay for.

Ah, I've yet to speak about that, right?

Auri told me that Dragonsbane (what the curse from his story is called) can naturally be passed down through birth in select regions of the continent. However, case numbers have been dwindling down due to what he has hypothesized as the stabilization of draconic power. As time goes on, the world itself is absorbing the remaining powers of the dragons in order to reestablish balance. Dragonsbane, which was founded on the dragons' power, would naturally cease to exist in the future. This is why he has found the case of the merchant odd. Logically speaking, he should not have been able to die from Dragonsbane anymore and yet, he has. To Auri, this could only mean one of two things: either the dragons magically came back to life or an external entity is exacerbating the disease.

Whichever is the case, it would be downright mad to be living in this era.

I have attempted multiple times to prod at Auri and where his knowledge of all these things have come from but he always manages to change the subject or he simply ignores me entirely. His secrecy is by far the most frustrating thing I have ever come to witness.

April 26

Auri asked me to look into something for him and it had taken quite some time. I cannot even begin to count how much hours of unpaid overtime I have done these past few days alone because of this matter but I am slowly beginning to believe him when he says that there is a big conspiracy behind this and that it could only worsen in the future.

I scoured for books and records from just about everywhere for anything that contained concepts related to Dragonsbane and dragons. Ultimately, I was able to find someone who seems to be the sole living member of a family stricken with Dragonsbane. She was originally from Snezhnaya (coincidence or not?) but has since moved to Liyue for some peace and tranquility in the last few moments of her life. I met her and found that her descriptions match that of the merchant's case and that of the old legends'. Would it not be foolish to deny what is happening in front of me still?

Confirming the existence of Dragonsbane was the first step and I quickly refocused my efforts into looking into Auri's two theories. I found two key findings: one, there is a form of forbidden black magic that is practiced by a sect in the form of necromancy and two, the contradicting nature of the body's innate Yang and black magic can cause an imbalance that increases the vulnerability of those already stricken by Dragonsbane. There is only a number of coincidences I can accept before I say 'I think not.'

The problem then becomes: who is causing all of this when all the declared users of black magic have been dead for years?

The simplest explanation is that they were not all dead from the start. A more complicated explanation is that someone was able to mimic the ways of Khaenri'ah in the present-day. A couple more complicated explanations can be conjured up from this line of thought.

I am uncertain of what is to come and I am worried that it is too late for myself to play blind and revert to the comforts of ignorance.

You hurriedly turn to the next page only to freeze when you notice the stark contrast of the entries' contents from then on. There wasn't another mention of Dragonsbane or Khaenri'ah. Instead, it tells the story of Alethea's domestic life after she resigned (out of the blue) from her post. She ended up marrying the coroner she met to which she had three children. An appalling amount of the pages were spent debating about minute details of the storybook she wrote for her children to read at night which was, yes, 'Edictum ad sui'. If there was just one last interesting detail, the inspiration of the book came from a fable told by Auri. It makes him even more suspicious given how much he knows of things that he should have no means of knowing of.

Other irrelevant and incredibly mundane details filled the rest of the journal up until the end that you couldn't help but groan into your palms at the incredibly anticlimactic turn of events. What has caused such a shift in her mood? What happened to their investigation? Well, in any case, try as you might, you would not be finding the answers in this room.

"My lady?" You turn around to see both Albedo and Alatus looking at you questioningly.

"What is it?"

"…We've been calling for you for a while now. Did you not hear us?"

You frown before shrinking under Alatus' unflinching stare. "Sorry, I must have gotten lost in my thoughts. Did you find anything?"

"I did not," he replies before subtly gesturing to the Baron, "but he has."

"Yes, I found the original manuscript of the book you read in the orphanage inside the thing you refer to as a 'mana bomb'. There are some annotations that you might want to look at and…"

You approach them whilst holding the journal. "And what?"

"I sensed some form of veiling magic on the last page but I cannot seem to remove it."

"What?" With urgency, you ask for the manuscript and began flipping through it the moment it touched your palm.

"The way the magic is produced and layered is different from anything I have ever seen before," the Baron mutters to himself before practically digging a hole through the material in your hands with his eyes. "But it feels… oddly familiar?"

"When you put it that way, it does." Xiao nods and when you raised a brow at him, he sighs defeatedly. "I've fought my share of magic users. I might not be able to determine this and that as well as the Baron but I can at least remember the prickling sensation it leaves in the air."

"It seems that the General has a much higher sensitivity for magic than most do."

"…Thank you?"

"Oh, spare me the fond compliments! I also found something." Rolling your eyes at their interaction, you hand the journal to the two who also almost immediately began inspecting it. You send them one last look before skimming through the words on the manuscript.

It was a handwritten copy and the curves and strokes match the ones on the journal perfectly, much to your relief. At the very least, you can confirm Alethea's identity and, if you're lucky, you can find more information about her from the records in the administrative office of the Palace. You make a mental note to ask Ganyu about it as soon as you get back 'home.'

For the most part, the contents were also the same sans a few edits probably done by the publisher. To your discontent, most of them were insubstantial changes—more so leaning towards grammatical and structural changes, spelling errors, and paragraph divisions. There were also small arrows pointing towards short phrases that seemed to denote the direct inspirations of the scene (which in hindsight, would probably be a word per word snippet of the version of the story Auri told Alathea).

Shaking your head, you slowly approach the last page that the Baron seemed to be obsessing over. Subconsciously, your eyes widen and you brought the paper closer to your face, blinking madly as if doing so would better confirm what you were reading.

The word "Saintess" was circled in red and on the margins were the words "cursed" and "key." They were madly underlined—exhibiting the same degree of stress on the journal that damn near turned regular inked text into braille.

But that wasn't important. Not as much as the text magically appearing before your very eyes. It's slow forming, mimicking the way the author once wrote it in whatever mystical vanishing ink they had. You thought of bringing it to the attention of Albedo and Alatus but before you could, the cursive text read: "For your eyes only."

You can't say exactly why but there's some… instinctive and quite inexplainable level of 'trust' that you cannot help but give towards Alethea. You think that it might be because there's an unquenchable thirst for the truth in you—a facet of your soul that desires the answer to "why did you have to die?" For closure? For vengeance? You can't say for certain anymore but in the end, you sneakily pretend to still be reading the annotations, subtly angling yourself so they cannot read through the text just in case.

To this day, I cannot understand the ways of my husband. However, I have learned to not ask questions that would give me answers I cannot ever dream of understanding. I can only trust him from here on out but, do not get me wrong, I do so willingly. He is many things but he will never put me in harm's way. Not if he can help it.

He has enchanted this letter with his unknown ways and, as I know it, this would only be visible if the catastrophe has come as we had anticipated it and neither of us were able to stop it. It is unfortunate for the both of us, seeing as that would mean our demise, but congratulations thus far to you, seeing as you made it this far alive. That is a feat given how doomed you must be to be entrapped in this madness.

Truth be told, the story you just have read was a message to myself because I know undoubtedly well that I would be dragged into this fated mess. You know how it is—in case, I forget. The truth is such a problematic thing, and I am, quite unfortunately, attracted to it and all things that spell trouble. Either way, let all things that must come to pass, come to pass, and soon enough, the answers that you seek will naturally come to you.

Just because I pity you, the one who reads this message, allow me to offer one piece of advice. Do not trust anyone—well, not unless you find "him." He is the one who cannot help but find you, the one subject that cannot and will not change in this ever churning hell of a world. If you find him, do not be so quick to turn him away.

I have nothing more to say to you so do not bother trying to ask questions about me to the void that will not reply back. But perhaps, just perhaps, what I cannot provide you, the "others" can. Still, I cannot help but warn you (though I know that it is futile and you have long made this choice): this is the last chance you have to turn back.

Did she know who you were? Did she know you were coming? What is this catastrophe she speaks of? Who is "he?" Why does she seem to know so much? Your head was swarming with questions and, perhaps it was the dizzying onslaught of it that made you stumble a step back. Albedo abruptly looks up, using one spare hand to steady you but you quickly wore a reassuring smile before waving him off.

"…Well," giving you one last look over, he turns back to Alatus with an apologetic look in his eyes. "Sorry, you were saying?"

"It's nothing important. The quote this Auri spoke of is just familiar is all."

"Where did you hear it from?"

The General thinks for a moment before he snaps his fingers. "His Majesty said it to me in response once. He had asked me to investigate a matter about the rebels in the south and I questioned the use of one of his orders."

His Majesty…?

How come every mystery that arises from when you finally have some answers end up being connected with him? You decided to back off on the questioning the last you spoke because you assumed, believed, trusted that what he told you was already close to the whole truth. Is he still unsure of your allegiance? Is that why he kept on hiding things from you that could very well be matters that intrinsically involve you: your safety, your fate, your truth?

He has a connection with the dragons. He was there on the day time was turned back. He knows of things that would otherwise be impossible to know. He's…

"…Baron." You whisper in a daze, subconsciously holding your temple with a trembling hand as you take a shaky inhale. "I want to meet His Majesty… As soon as possible, please."

The both of them seemed perplexed at your sudden change of mood but the Baron recovers fast, nodding and following after you outside the room. "I shall relay your message to him when I get back."

"Thank you." Clearing your throat, you gesture towards the window from where you entered. "Let us return. I think we have uncovered what we can from here."

Right. You must return at once. You have much to prepare before the long delayed confrontation between you and the mysterious Emperor of Liyue.