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Chapter Text

The skies were mostly clear as thin streams of clouds dotted the space above. The grass within the area seemed to glow radiantly, but not as much as the flowers that resided there. 

Fields upon fields of wild glaze lilies shined brightly under the sun’s rays, their petals absorbing the brightness of the daylight. Nearby, the pure waters glistened, minor ripples caused by the natural life that inhabited the place. Yet, the expected silence was broken by a lone song. The melody was peaceful despite the owner still learning how to sing. Regardless, the glaze lilies could detect the genuine emotions that fueled the tune. 

However, the music carried a lonely quality. 

A pair of figures soon approached the plains which have always been their usual meeting spot. So, imagine their surprise when their ears were met with the sound of another’s presence. The pair had shared a glance, but it was clear that neither of them recognized the owner of the voice. 

When they approached, one with curiosity and the other with indifference, they finally caught sight of the one who sang. Guizhong had walked forth with a smile, an expression she had learned from the mortals. Morax simply followed after her.

“Greetings.” She had spoken up softly. The tune came to a sudden halt, the other spinning around with surprise. His ginger locks glowed orange under the sunlight, the hair reaching past his shoulders.

A moment of silence had passed before he recognized the sight before him, the pair before him being two well-known gods. He found himself unsure of what to say, his silvery-blue robes slightly swaying in the breeze. His eyes glimmered like that of noctilucous jade. Though he found himself avoiding the sight of Morax, the old god rather intimidating in appearance and aura.

“Ah, sorry, am I intruding on your territory?” He had questioned that day, growing a tad nervous and apologetic. “If so, I'll be sure to leave quickly.”  Before the young man could act on it, Guizhong had taken a step forward.

“Not at all.” She had replied, intrigued as she could detect some semblance of a divine aura on this very human-like individual. Yet, she wondered… “Tell me, are you a mortal?”

“I used to be one. I think,” He admitted. “But I think I must have died... I woke up under a lake and I don’t know where I am.” Within his palm, he conjured up a small orb of water. “I don’t know what I am either...”

Guizhong found herself hurrying over, Morax raising a brow. The God of Dust had gently grasped the stranger’s hands with sparkling eyes. It was rare to find a divine being who was intimately familiar with humanity. “Fascinating… So, you must know a lot about mortals!”

The young man had stilled, unsure about such a regal figure being so casual with someone like him. “W-Well, yes...?”

Guizhong looked over her shoulder towards Morax with a determined glint in her eyes. With absolute certainty, she spoke. 

“Morax, we’re keeping him.”

The young man blinked, processing her words. “E-Eh…!?”

Morax had simply nodded with his typical flat expression. “You may do as you please. I will accept it as long as he does not interfere with our duties.”

That was close enough to a “yes” that Guizhong was going to get. She faced the unknown being with a brighter smile. “Tell us, what is your name?”

It took a moment for the young man to recover and Guizhong waited patiently. 

“I’m…—I believe I was named "Ajax" by the human family that raised me. I'm not entirely sure, but it's one of the few things I can recall.”

Guizhong’s expression was gentle, her aura welcoming and warm. Ajax could only stare in awe. “It is nice to meet you, Ajax. Please, help us learn more about humans if you are willing!”

“O-Of course.” Ajax didn’t expect to meet two renowned gods, nor did he expect to be taken under their care. He certainly didn’t expect to have a request to teach them out of all things! 

It was on that day of bright skies and breezy fields that they first met. And it was all because of a chance encounter and a simple lonely tune carried by the wind. It wouldn’t be until thousands of years that the name “Ajax” was officially recorded into Liyue's history.  It was no longer just Morax and Guizhong. The duo of gods became an odd trio, the moments they would share allowing the glaze lilies to prosper like never before.

If only such memories could’ve continued for an eternity. Yet, the laws of the world bound even immortals.

The bright sun bared down upon the bustling streets of Liyue Harbor, the air carrying a natural warmth despite the land’s autumn appearance. Mountains rose high and streams slithered through toward the ocean. The gentle breeze that passed through carried a mixture of scents. And among the streets of Liyue Harbor, a tall man in dark attire visited a store. He had eyes like that of cor lapis and dark locks with auburn tips. 

Zhongli examined the article of clothing before him with a critical eye. He took in the shades of grey and the charcoal accents that buttoned the cloth closed. He did his best to imagine how it would look on Childe. In his grasp was traditional Liyue attire, though it was a bit fancy despite its casual style. Zhongli has learned that Childe doesn’t prefer clothing that’s too formal. 

A thoughtful expression made its way onto his face as he turned his attention to something else. Within Zhongli’s other hand was a similar article of clothing but consisted of blues rather than greys. Zhongli was having quite the dilemma as he was sure that both would look equally good on Childe. He simply couldn’t pick just one. And so, he did what he always did whenever it came to purchase decisions. 

With a completely straight face, Zhongli spoke to the seller. “I would like to purchase both, please.” The seller gawked with surprise, knowing the expensive price tags better than anyone.

There was a call echoing from a distance and Zhongli turned around just in time to spot a familiar sight weaving past some locals. The other was offering brief apologies as he ran by some locals. Silver clasps glinted in the light as the collar of his dark, red shirt slightly bounced with every step, his darker colored pants bordering between formal and casual. A thin and decorative chain slightly hung from his belt, matching the other silver accents that decorated his clothes to keep them from being too plain. Despite that, at a glance, there was still not much that was notable about him. 

Yet, if one gained a proper look, they'd notice the uncommon hair color and mismatched eyes. As if to highlight that heterochromia, a lone tassel earring was worn on an ear. It was made up of a tiny fragment of cor lapis while a smaller piece of noctilucous jade hung underneath it. 

Zhongli was pleased with the arrival. “Ah, Childe, you have impeccable timing.”

Childe rushed over, dark boots beating against the ground, before coming to a halt. “If you’re saying that, then you’ve done something—“ His eyes immediately landed on the clothing in Zhongli’s grasp. It didn’t take him long to figure out what was happening. “Zhongli, I don’t even need new clothes.”

“I’m aware, but when I spotted them, I thought they would suit you. I simply wish to treat you with a gift. Now, do you have a preference? I can always purchase both.”

“The last time you got me an outfit, you pulled aside one of those Fatui diplomats for fashion advice. I was lucky enough to convince you not to make it fancy!”

Zhongli made no reaction as he responded, eyes examining Childe’s current attire with satisfaction. “You have to admit that the lady did make some fine decisions even though you wanted something much simpler.”

“Well, yes, but that’s not the point…!” Childe groaned. 

With a deep breath, Childe brought the subject back on topic. “Anyway,” He bent over slightly to eye the price tags. Due to the high quality of the fabrics and designs, both items were rather expensive. “What about the Mora?” 

At that Zhongli paused. 

“Ah, yes, the Mora... hm.” 

Zhongli could only glance at Childe with concern as the younger face palmed. He walked past Zhongli, his hand already reaching into a pouch. With his hand hidden from sight, Childe used his half of the Gnosis to rapidly create Mora within the pouch. By the time he made it to the seller, he had more than enough to pay for everything. The process was completed so swiftly and professionally, that no one would have been able to tell that the bag used to be mostly empty.

“This should be enough, right?” The seller blinked before nodding in agreement, a bit stunned by the duo’s odd interaction.

Zhongli walked up with the clothing, standing next to Childe as he handed the outfits over to be properly folded and wrapped to go. As the pair waited, Zhongli gave Childe a faint smile of gratitude.

“Thank you for coming to my aid. However, I am regretful that I made you purchase your own gift. ...Again.”

Childe sighed before slowly smiling back. “You know we don’t have to worry about Mora, right? And yet, here I am paying for you all the time. Sometimes I wonder if you do it on purpose just so I’ll come chasing after you.”

Zhongli almost looked appalled at the idea. “I would never exploit you in such a manner. I truly do forget.”

“I know, I know.” Childe laughed. “I’m just kidding around. But I’m actually curious if you enjoy having me running to save you from debt…”

Much to Childe’s amusement, Zhongli hesitated when forming a response. And for someone like Childe, it was too easy to spot the subtle signs of embarrassment and shyness that Zhongli carried. 

“Well,” Zhongli began slowly. “I do find it rather… endearing that you come to my aid. Even if it is for something so trivial.”

Childe couldn’t help but chuckle. He brought his hands to rest in his pockets as he continued his stroll down the streets of Liyue Harbor, Zhongli by his side. “In that case, make sure to not get lost in the crowd. I know we can kind of tell where we are at all times, but it’s too vague of an internal compass. It’d make my life easier if you just stuck with me.”

Zhongli gave a minor frown. “I will try my best to follow your advice. I apologize for any difficulties I may bring upon you.”

Childe simply waved it off. “No need to sound so formal about it. It’s all good. Anyway,” He turned his head toward Zhongli with an odd glint in his eyes. His cheeks puffed up as if he suddenly had something in his mouth. Before Zhongli could question it, he paused in his next step as a tiny object was flung at his cheek. It fell and soon clattered against the paved stone with a brief ringing sound. The older gazed downward, only to spot a lone Mora. 

Meeting Childe’s eyes, Zhongli spoke. “Did you… just spit Mora at me?”

“Let’s just call it a small bit of payback for making me worry.”

Before they knew it, Childe using his half of the Gnosis to spit a single Mora at Zhongli became somewhat of a tradition. Mainly when Zhongli did something foolish according to Childe’s standards. 

The skies were dreary and the land even more so. The rain continued to trickle from the heavens, further flooding the world below. It was as if the scenery had gained an ugly and clouded film to it. The beauty it once held was now gone. The once-clear waters were murky and the endless field of glaze lilies became buried remains under the mud. The terrain was soft as it shifted under the weight of anything heavy, the dirt being smudged out of place as it smeared.

When Morax first laid his eyes upon the transformed land, he had ignored it at the time. That was because his focus was aimed toward something far more important to him. He’s sure that was the first time he learned to truly value the existence and life of another. 

“Guizhong…!” He had called out, words echoing throughout the open space. It wavered with an emotion he was not familiar with. Regardless, he could vaguely remember how foreign his voice sounded to his ears. 

It did not sound like that strong and steady voice that has delivered commands. It did not sound like the voice that has resounded throughout battlefields. It did not sound like the voice that has brought mortals and immortals alike to their knees. For once, the flat tone had changed.  Morax would later remember his lessons on humanity and he would recall the various emotions he’s witnessed in his followers. Only then, did he realize that what he must have experienced that day was what humans call “desperation”, or maybe it was “fear”? In the end, it did not matter. He instantly decided that he did not enjoy either of those emotions.

When Morax had held Guizhong in his arms, he felt as if he were the one dying and being reduced to nothing. She left him her parting words and Morax never clung to the words of another being so strongly in his lifetime. It was as if he were no longer a god, but a follower of one. 

She told him to forget about the stone dumbbell, but he never forgot about it. How could he? 

Guizhong parted ways with him much like the dust that scatters in the winds. It was a sorrowful parting and Morax learned what “grieving” meant. As an immortal, he was used to constant change. He was used to the beginnings, the ends, and whatever may be in-between. But, in those moments, he had learned what it meant to have a “desire”. He desired for Guizhong to stay, but that was not how the laws of the world work. Morax had never experienced such sorrow before.

“I…’m… s-sor…ry…” A weak voice had called out, a wounded figure laying within the aftermath some distance away. Ginger hair was dyed a dark crimson, strands sticking together in clumps. A layer of grime and grass blades were tangled within the messy, long locks. 

Morax felt the tightness within his chest grow despite lacking a human's heart. Without hesitation, he reached for the other significant person in his life. The only one remaining.

The quiet room was shrouded in the natural darkness brought by nightfall, a nearby window allowing blessed moonlight to glimmer through. The area gained a blue tint to it despite the moon’s glow never reaching as far as the sun could. But that was alright because it was soothing and peaceful. The skies were clear and the blanket of stars glinted within the dark sea of sky. 

A lone lantern remained lit, the gentle flame emitting a warm aura and bright tint. The silence was momentarily broken by the turning of a page, the paper of the book taking a warm hue due to the lantern’s light. 

Zhongli’s gaze left the inky pages of his book, his eye color practically glowing within the darkness. He tilted his head toward the spot next to him. Eventually, he reached a hand toward the person resting next to him. The other was laying on his stomach, face planted in a puffy pillow.

“Childe.” 

“Hm…?” Childe hummed softly in response. He wasn’t truly asleep, but close enough to it. 

However, he finally opened his eyes once he felt Zhongli poke at one of his horns. The solid protrusions appeared to be made from noctilucous jade itself, faintly illuminating within the darkness of the room. Only in the privacy of their home does he allow his more draconic features to appear.

“I was wondering… Would you mind acting as the Exuvia for this year’s Rite of Descension?” Zhongli waited patiently as Childe turned over to look at him, one of Childe’s eyes faintly glowing a familiar cor lapis while the other glowed like noctilucous jade. 

The heterochromia would often catch most people off guard, but the people of Liyue Harbor have gotten used to such a unique feature on Childe’s face. Meanwhile, a part of Zhongli used to be jealous that he couldn’t be gifted with an eye the same color as Childe’s natural, but mystical, blue. He’s sure a part of him deep within still does. But, at least it gives Zhongli more of a reason to make as much eye contact as possible with the other. So, it wasn’t entirely unfortunate.

Childe sighed, slightly dragging his body higher up the bed as his chin rested over the curve of his pillow. “Zhongli, this is the second time in a row. You only need to appear once a year. That’s all.”

Near the foot of the bed, Childe’s tail lightly swayed. It was made of silver scales in varying shades of grey. The tuft of hair at the end of it glowed much like his horns except for the tips having the illuminating color of amber highlighting it. “And don’t forget that both of us are supposed to appear together.” 

“Please, Ajax?” And, of course, Childe just couldn’t refuse this Mora-forgetting moron. 

“…You owe me, Morax. Now, you better give me the damn script that I’ll have to memorize within less than a month. I’m not as good as you when it comes to all this economy stuff.” 

“Of course.” Zhongli offered a gentle smile, expressing his gratitude.  “I’ll get to it first thing in the morning.”

Childe adjusted himself as he laid on his side with a tired groan. “Good.” 

“Sleep well, Childe.” 

The older was met with a yawn as Childe sluggishly curled up, lightly pressing himself against Zhongli’s chest. He could feel Zhongli’s draconic tail form, entwining with Childe’s own.

“Same to you, Zhongli.”

At some point in time, Morax no longer walked Teyvat alone. At first, there was Guizhong, the God of Dust and then there was Ajax, who later became known as the God of Youth.

(He could remember the days when Guizhong would mention how similar their names are. Back then, Morax didn’t see how it was “amusing”.)

Once upon a time, he did not care much for Ajax. Especially since the young being behaved more human than Guizhong. In Morax’s eyes, Ajax was a distraction. He was out of place. And, despite being a “god”, Ajax never gave off the impression of being one.

And yet, despite not knowing what exactly he is, Ajax had gained a minor following of believers before the Archon War. He had a natural affinity toward caring for and protecting young mortals. Even offering words of wisdom. This made him accidentally be considered a god simply because he did what he could for humans. It was fitting that his name, “Ajax”, means “of the earth” for humans are of the earth, wandering among the land of Teyvat. One should also consider the fact that Ajax was once human as well.

(Perhaps it was Ajax’s sense of duty that didn’t completely drive Morax away. Despite how the young man could behave, he would take his tasks seriously. Morax could at least respect that trait.)

However, it was to be expected, considering Ajax’s newfound responsibilities and origin, that he would end up more human than anyone else. Something that further fascinated Guizhong and further confused Morax.

The waters Ajax brought were said to bring health and prosperity — later leading to mortals believing in the “Fountain of Youth”. And being a guardian toward young mortals and offering them wisdom, if desired, became a norm. He became a minor god and somewhat of an unofficial one. Yet, he contributed to the world in a way most divine beings didn’t. After all, very little dared to become so personally close to the mortals that roamed the world.

And because of that, Ajax was the only other divine besides Guizhong who understood humans the most. 

But now, there was no visible trace of that minor god who always wore a smile. There was only blood and filth as Ajax laid with labored breaths and the remains of shattered weapons. He was more human than ever before and not in a positive light. Morax learned to despise how Ajax bled, life slowly departing.

“I-I…tri…ed…” Ajax had claimed, guilt evident in his voice. His eyes, a dull noctilucous jade, had stared mournfully at the spot where Guizhong’s body used to be before vanishing.

Morax wanted to feel “anger”, but he found that he could not do so. If only he could have an excuse to feel something other than this painful ache. However, to blame Ajax for not saving Guizhong… Morax found himself unable to voice such a vile and unfair thought.

Ajax… Once he’s gone, who will Morax have left? And so, he took a chance. Unlike Guizhong, Ajax could survive. 

It was the first time Morax had ever chosen to do something so risky and uncertain. It was “frightening”—was that the correct way to describe the hesitance he felt back then?—because he wasn’t sure of the results.  It was frightening because the God of Contracts may fail to keep his word for the first time in history. His plan was going against his very nature. But he cared and still does care about Ajax. Perhaps, this was yet another lesson Guizhong and Ajax attempted to teach him. 

And it wasn’t until they were at death’s door did his mind finally begin to open to such mortal experiences. 

“I will not let you depart from me, dear friend.” Morax had declared. His hand thrummed with energy, generated by his powers, as he grasped at his own chest. Ajax could barely pay attention to the action as Morax’s Gnosis was brought out of the god’s body. 

“Mor…ax...?” Ajax questioned, rivulets of blood falling past his lips.

“I shall save you.” Is what Morax had said despite not knowing if he could live up to his word. “Ajax, may our lives and fates intertwine and dare not part. With this, a contract shall be sealed between us.”

His Gnosis glowed brightly and Morax held it with both hands. 

In a single, swift motion…the Gnosis was cleanly split into two. Geo crystals formulated around the broken ends as if trying to patch the divided item. The Gnosis somehow managed to accept the crystals as its own, preventing further divine energy from pouring out.

With a silent blessing whispered from his lips, Morax pressed the bottom half of the Gnosis into Ajax’s chest.

“You’ve improved a lot since then.” Zhongli commentated softly, observing how Childe sat at a safe distance from the nearby glaze lilies. A light melody filled the air, tun unwavering as the younger sang an old song known to Liyue thousands of years ago.

It came to a gradual end, Childe glancing toward the other with a tender smile. “You think so?”

“Of course. I would not lie to you about your singing.” Zhongli instantly responded with complete honesty. “I’m sure the glaze lilies appreciate it as much as I do.”

For a moment, Childe’s eyes gained a tint of sorrow. He bit at his lip, appearing hesitant which was rather uncharacteristic. The corners of Zhongli’s lip curved downward at the sight. “Childe?”

“Do you…” Childe appeared distant despite being so near to Zhongli. Heterochromatic eyes stared longingly and mournfully at the glaze lilies whose petals gently danced. “Do you think she… would be proud?”

Zhongli quietly approached, silently sitting down beside Childe with understanding. For both of them, Guizhong is a difficult subject despite the centuries that have passed by since then. 

With care, Zhongli reached a hand to firmly grasp Childe’s. The younger lightly squeezed his hand in response, embracing the comfort it brought. Together, they both observed the glaze lilies, the flower rarely growing within the wild. They both could imagine what Dihua Marsh once looked like. They could remember snippets of how the fields would glow vibrantly with endless glaze gilies. And now, the land was forced to change much like many other things in life. Deep within themselves, they feared the day the glaze lilies may become extinct. What a truly sorrowful day that will be for Guizhong adored glaze lilies the most. It was much like Childe’s love toward starconches. 

“I’m sure she would be proud.”

Childe let his body lean against Zhongli’s side. The older adjusted his position, an arm draping over Childe to make it more comfortable. 

“… Remember when she started teaching me how to improve my singing?”

“Of course, I do. Even back then she was happy with it.”

Childe hummed. “…Did you know that I recently found some more glaze lilies growing? They still got to grow from being little sprouts, but they’re there.” He sighed. “Do you think I’ll be able to sing enough to make them grow more?”

Zhongli remained as a sturdy presence, resting his chin atop Childe’s head. The other simply embraced the feeling such physical comfort brought. “Even if you can not return this place to its former glory, the fact that you have bought some back is more than enough.”

“I’m glad...”

They returned home once the sun began to set, walking away from where it all began. Tomorrow will simply be another day out of many, but they will always treasure the moments they share. They learned the hard way that even beings such as them will not always last for an eternity. There was still a way for them to die like any other living thing within Teyvat. 

Chapter Text

The Archon War was no place for kindness nor gentleness. Such things were deemed as weaknesses. The God of Salt was more than enough of a prime example of this. Divine beings and immortals alike had heard of the fate that had fallen upon her. She was a goddess who chose to maintain her extraordinary grace even during a time of war, hoping to keep a tiny kindle of peace within a period of conflict. I n the end, she was betrayed. The loving and gentle goddess who offered flowers to her people was mercilessly murdered by one of her followers. It was to be expected. Perhaps not the cause, but the result certainly was predictable. Her nature was far too soft for days and years that would be filled with bloodshed, envy, and hatred. It was not a surprise that her traits were her downfall. 

Morax knew that the God of Salt was foolish for letting herself become so vulnerable with enemies on every side. It wouldn’t be until many centuries after Guizhong’s passing that he’d feel a tinge of pity toward the goddess. It was like placing a flower in the path of a herd of boars. Such care and beauty among the wasteland of sorrow and anger… 

It seemed destined to be fleeting. Never lasting. 

But, for Ajax, the incident brought him more sorrow than any other could feel. 

“She cared for them… She just wanted to help ease people from the stress of war.” Ajax had once commented. “Why did one of her own betray her? What did she feel, knowing she was betrayed despite her love? …I can’t imagine it.” Morax had nothing to say at the time, simply allowing Ajax to mutter to himself. It’s not like Morax would understand the emotions Ajax felt.

And then, Guizhong perished in Morax’s arms and Ajax nearly passed on as well. If only they were stronger, maybe they could have prevented Guizhong’s death. But there was no way to undo what had been done.  They failed her and she spent her final moments without hatred or blame. Of course, she wouldn’t feel such things. She was different, something that Morax and Ajax both loved about her. 

Morax was unsure of what to feel. He was unsure about the afflictions his emotional responses caused.  Ajax could only mourn in silence as if an older sister had gone. A part of him struggled to remember what his human life was like. He was sure he had a large family. And so, he wondered if this grief is what they felt when his mortal days were over. 

Yet, that brought yet another issue for Ajax. 

“Morax, I can’t protect them as I am.” Ajax had admitted one day as he remained to lie down, recovering from his wounds and the changes caused by Morax’s Gnosis. “This is more than just some monsters or people who harm others. This is a war between gods who don’t know or don’t care about the chaos they cause. The mortals are forced to deal with the consequences of our actions.”

Morax had stood by his side, aiding in the other’s recovery as best as he could. The indifferent god listened with unwavering patience. 

“I’m supposed to protect the young, the very same that I watch grow up until they’re old and gone. I’m a kind god, a compassionate one. I have only my human nature to blame. Every compassionate and gentle divine I have known have perished like all the others who have died so far.” 

Ajax had then inhaled deeply, staring at the dim sky that hung above them. “I was too kind and too hesitant. I was…too afraid. Because of that, I was fatally wounded. What kind of protector am I if I can’t bring myself to fight, even if it’s a war? This is a situation in which the lives of mortals should be protected more than ever, but…”

He had found himself turning his gaze toward Morax, newly gained heterochromatic eyes glowing faintly. “I can’t be the guardian I need to be if I let myself stay like this. As I am, I can’t bring myself to properly defend the lives I value nor can I find it within me to properly defend myself. So, Morax…can you do one more favor for me?”

Morax’s response was instantaneous. “Of course.”

“…For the sake of our people’s lives and my own, which you have gone out of your way to save, please teach me how to be less human. Teach me to show no mercy when it is needed. But, no matter what, make sure I never forget my humanity.”

The home glowed with an orange hue, the lights brightening the inside as the sun settled under the horizon. Zhongli sipped his tea, the pleasant flavor and the scent of cooking from the kitchen easing his mind and body. He slowly opened his eyes, placing his teacup down as soon as a soft tap emitted from an open window. 

Zhongli focused his attention on the newcomer with a faint but welcoming smile. “Good evening, Xiao. Childe will be pleased to see that you have arrived.”

Xiao’s movements were nearly silent as he made his way through the window, walking over to a seat by the table. “…He’s making almond tofu.”

The pair soon perked up as footsteps approached, the scent of fresh food strengthening. Turning around a corner, Childe strolled over with a small cart full of food. The moment he spotted Xiao, he paused to stare. Xiao could only stare back with a raised brow.

Childe dashed over, Xiao emitting a yelp as the taller nearly tackled the Adeptus out of his chair. Xiao could only grumble, attempting to swat his assailant away as Childe laughed. “Xiao, how are you? It’s been a while!” 

“You saw me last—“ Xiao was forced to regain his balance as Childe’s embrace nearly tipped his chair over. “You saw me last week…!”

Childe’s expression gave off a slight pout. “That’s too long of a time. You Adepti need a social life.” He eventually loosened his grip, Xiao taking the opportunity to untangle himself and push his chair back. 

“I’m perfectly fine as is.”

“Oh, well. I’ll have to try another time.” Childe sighed with a grin. He then turned around to bring forth a plate of perfectly done almond tofu. “Anyway, this is what got you coming over here, right?”

Xiao avoided eye contact, maintaining a grumpy expression as Childe placed the plate in front of the Adeptus. 

“Thanks.” 

Childe’s expression turned softer and less teasing. It was more tender, full of genuine care. “No problem. I’ll always be willing to make it for you. You just gotta say the word.”

From where Zhongli sat, he couldn’t help himself from giving a miniature smile as well. Childe did seem to have that effect on others… 

By the time they finished setting up and could finally enjoy the dinner, Xiao took note of Childe’s silverware of choice. “…Are you not eating with chopsticks?”

Childe froze, his face tinged with pink. Zhongli’s eyes glimmered with amusement at the reaction. Xiao could only scoff, no true malice behind it. The Adeptus crossed his arms over his chest with an unimpressed gaze. However, he did find it somewhat amusing as well.

“You’ve been alive for thousands of years… And you still haven’t learned how to use chopsticks?” Xiao’s eyes then darted over to Zhongli, as if questioning the man how Childe has gone this long without using chopsticks.

Zhongli could only stare back, maintaining a smile despite how lost he looked. “Not even I am entirely sure how he still hasn’t learned.”

Childe switched his gaze between the two as if they were somehow plotting against him. “I keep telling you, it must be a curse. I seriously don’t get it either and Zhongli is the best teacher there is with this kind of stuff!”

Xiao could only sigh, taking in the lighthearted atmosphere as he ate. 

One would not be blamed for fearing the gods known as Morax and Ajax. The divine pair had suddenly rose in presence during the Archon War, reentering the battlefield one day with vigor and might that’s never been seen before. Only the gods blinded by their arrogance or ignorance believed they could best them in combat. 

While Morax’s terrifying strength and appearance were expected, mortals and immortals were surprised by the viciousness within the God of Youth, Ajax. None thought that the minor god could possess such a side to him. It was unnerving considering what his role entails. For someone who brings prosperity and blessings to the youth, none thought he’d be one swift to spill blood without remorse. 

Ajax would be described as the type that could be laughing with children and creating flower crowns one moment, only to be bathed in the gore of his foes in the next. It was a horrific duality, the way he switched so flawlessly between one of benevolence to one of slaughter. Even within the present day, no one knows of the cause for Ajax’s abrupt rise in power. His development toward violence was documented to have been caused by the stress of war. 

It was only logical to assume such a thing and perhaps it wasn’t too far from the truth. Either way, Celestia forbid if one ever encountered one of them. If someone was unfortunate enough to encounter both at the same time…

By default, there was no guarantee of survival unless they allowed their target to crawl away.

Ajax and Morax were an infamous duo, never leaving the other’s side for too long. However, their dependence on one another was not solely due to the benefits of being allies. It was to remind themselves of their humanity. Morax had only just opened his heart to the concept of “emotions”, his trait of acting first not combining too well with his newfound development. With someone as human-like as Ajax and the coldness that comes with war, it is an internal storm. Meanwhile, Ajax had to steel his heart to protect what he valued most, no longer being hesitant and fearful of wartime combat. But he feared a day where he would become cold and unfeeling much like Morax in his earlier days. 

Despite what others may have thought, Morax and Ajax depended on one another to remind themselves of what they wished to achieve, what they wanted to become, and what they didn’t want to become. 

But, not every moment was spent with heartlessness.

Ajax remembers that day well, where his eyes had caught sight of a being shackled to their master. It was a being with the figure of a child who was forced to stain their hands with blood and was forced to consume dreams. His first desire when spotting such a miserable sight was to free this individual. And so, Ajax had hurried to call Morax to his side. Together, they had stared down the god who bound the young one to a painful and cursed existence. 

Ajax had never fought with such bloodlust before. Even Morax had never witnessed such a sight. While Ajax had done many cruel things to protect innocent lives, he never witnessed something to this extent. Considering who Ajax is, it was no surprise that he fought as if the enslaved being were one of his many children. For a God of Youth, the young he meets and the newborns he has witnessed, are all something like his “children”. Even when time forces them to age. 

This situation was no different.

“Xiao, could you help me with something?” Outside of Wangshu Inn, rain pattered lightly while the darkened clouds rumbled with thunder. 

The Adeptus turned away from the window he was gazing from, meeting gentle heterochromatic eyes. He leaned away from the windowsill, straightening his posture. “What is it?”

“I need you to help take care of a spirit.” At that, Xiao sighed as his Anemo energy prepared to summon his polearm. 

Childe’s eyes widened, holding his hands up and causing Xiao to pause. “Wait! That’s…not what I meant. This isn’t a bad spirit. She’s just…lost.”

Xiao raised a brow. Before he could ask for more details, an ethereal glow peeked out from behind Childe’s legs. With a closer look, it was the form of a young girl. 

“Who’s that?” She questioned, appearing as if she wanted to run over to the Adeptus for a better look. Yet, she held herself back.

Childe tilted his head down toward her with a tender expression. “This is Xiao. He’s one of the Adepti who protects Liyue. I’m sure you’ve heard of the stories?”

The young girl’s eyes had widened with surprise, her attention switching back to Xiao with vigor and awe. “Wow! He’s really one of the Adepti?! He looks super cool!”

“Xiao,” Childe began. “This is Dusky Ming. I found her playing around a Ruin Hunter.” 

Xiao took note of Childe’s tone and the brief glint in his eyes. Without the little girl noticing, the Adeptus noted Childe silently mouthing the word "illness". It was enough to inform Xiao just how Dusky Ming ended up this way.

“I see…and you want me to help take care of her?”

“Yes. I was hoping she could stay here at the inn. Perhaps some of the staff are willing to help?” 

Xiao’s eyes wandered as Dusky Ming had wandered off to somewhere else in the room. She was a curious one and appeared to have boundless amounts of energy. The Adeptus could only sigh, crossing his arms.

“…I still don’t understand how you have maintained that soft heart of yours.”

The room filled with Childe’s gentle chuckle. “Sometimes I even surprise myself. But…will you help watch over her? At least, until she finds her way?” His expression turned serious with understanding. “If you don’t want to, that’s fine. You have the freedom of choice, Xiao. Don’t agree if you feel obligated to.”

Xiao frowned. “I know. And, I’ll help. I don’t mind and I swear it’s something I’m agreeing to not because of you.”

Childe’s expression lightened and Xiao proudly took in the sight of one of his Archon’s happiness. 

“Thank you, Xiao.”

“…I should be saying that.”

Childe emitted a huff of laughter and Xiao gave the smallest fragment of a smile in response.

Bloodstained the earth, seeping into the soil below. Chain links rattled with soft clanks, singing a tune of captivity. Wings hung limply, draped upon the world without the hope of flight. From some distance away, a divine had been slain. Not that the divine didn’t deserve it. 

He kept his head bowed, staring distantly at the sinful hands he wore. Blood, fresh and dried, clung to his nails while he was marked by a tainted tar that dripped to the ground below. Every single drop felt as if it contained a curse, a howl from the damned. His stomach lurched and churned, his tongue rolling in his mouth as a familiar and vile flavor consumed his sense of taste.  He awaited his inevitable end, his ears picking up the sound of approaching steps. Despite how graceful those steps sounded, he knows what the owner had committed. He witnessed the slaughter of his now-deceased master. The god who had lured him in while he allowed himself to be foolishly collared. 

The toes of traditional sandals breached his vision. Without a sound, he closed his eyes in submission. In waiting.

“You’re hurt.” The voice had spoken. It was masculine, yet young. Despite the slaughter the owner of it had committed, it sounded soft. 

But what did this god mean by “hurt”? He was considered well as far as he knew. He had not sustained any wounds. Despite these questioned, he remained silent. He offered no answer to the god who was surely here to finish the job.

“You have been forced to do terrible things, haven’t you?” It was rhetorical. One only needed one glance at him to tell that he is no good.

The soaked grass rustled as the one before him crouched, those stained robes reaching the mud. By this point, he just wanted this god to leave him be. He was done with the gods. He was done with many things.  In a rare display of irritation, he had weakly swung a clawed hand toward the god before him. The god who remained crouched before him was lightly grazed, tiny beads of crimson leaking from a shallow scratch. From some feet away, another pair of footsteps appeared ready to thunder over. But it wasn’t of anger, but concern.

“Morax.” The younger god had spoken with reassurance. The older had paused, calming himself as he listened to the words of the younger. 

“End…it…” The enslaved one had found himself muttering, mouth unbearably dry. “…Done… I’m…done…”

There was a frown, he was sure of it. But he couldn’t tell what the god crouched before him was thinking.

“You’re master has been dealt with. You are no longer bound by anyone. You are free.” The younger god had announced softly.

“Ne…ver free…” He had responded. It did not matter if his master was gone. The damage was already done.

“Then, let us form a contract.” … What? “A contract not of servitude, but liberation. And, if you desire it, you can seek redemption. I am Ajax, and the one who stands beside me is Morax. Together, we are willing to form a contract that shall withstand time itself. That is, if you’ll permit it.”

Ajax outstretched his hands before anyone knew what was happening. In a swift, but smooth motion, Ajax grasped the hands of the enslaved being. The being found himself going still within an instant.  His hands, vile and unforgivable, were being held so gently. Ajax held his hands with such tender love and care, almost as if the owner of said hands were made of something more fragile and more valuable than porcelain or glass. He didn’t know what to do. How could anyone look upon him, much less make contact with him, with such care? 

Taking a risk, he raised his head, meeting the sorrowful, yet hopeful smile of Ajax. Despite the God of Youth being partially stained with blood, the enslaved being couldn’t describe this god as anything less than holy. Those heterochromatic eyes bore into his own, bringing a foreign sensation that was both uncomfortable yet freeing. 

“What is your name?” Ajax had asked, tenderness never faltering. 

“…A-Alatus…” 

Morax had walked forth, standing by Ajax’s side. Meanwhile, Alatus took in the comforting warmth of the younger god’s hands. He had never experienced such warmth and, if he had, then it was too long ago.

“Alatus, if you so desire, that shall no longer be your name.” Ajax’s voice had carried an air of authority, yet it did not invoke any fear nor worry. It remained as calm and soft as ever. “May you be relieved of your duties and liberated by the chains that bind you. By your will, you shall be gifted a new name and the duty to discover your own freedom and desires. No longer shall you be forced into servitude as long as you will it. This we swear, for Morax and I shall never break our contracts.”

It sounded too good to be true and yet, he found himself crawling forth like the lower lifeform he is despite the immortality. Ajax welcomed him into his arms, never losing that gentleness. 

“P…lease…”

“I am Morax, God of Contracts among countless titles. In my name and the mutual parties involved, the contract has been sealed. You who have desired liberation shall now be free for as long as your existence continues. Your freedom is forever under our protection.”

“I am Ajax, God of Youth and I have recognized you as one of my own. With our contract, may you receive my blessing no matter your age or the passage of time. May you seek my guidance if needed and, through me, may you find forgiveness and redemption within yourself. From this day forth, you shall bear the name, Xiao.”

“Ah, thanks, Xiao.”

The Adeptus huffed, finishing the bandage wrapping. “Don’t go acting so foolishly next time.” Archon or not, that should not excuse such dangerous decisions.

Childe’s eyes simply twinkled with mirth. “Aw, but life gets so boring if I can just drown everything. I gotta make a challenge somehow.”

“That still doesn’t mean you should act so recklessly.”

Xiao gave a muted squeak as Childe suddenly ruffled the Adeptus’s hair. “Q-Quit it!”

Childe pulled his hand away all while giggling. Xiao’s grumpy expression made the younger god think of a stray cat within Liyue Harbor. “Like you’re any better. You’re a little gremlin who doesn’t know his own strength.”

Xiao turned his face away from the other to hide his embarrassment. He gritted his teeth as he frowned with irritation. “It’s not my fault if there’s collateral damage. Things should stay out of my way.”

“Uh, huh,” Childe hummed with a grin. “I’ll be sure to inform the nearby fauna and the stones should they ever get in your way. Want me to get Zhongli to help? I think he’d be happy to warn the dirt and mountains.”

“Q-Quiet...!” 

Childe only laughed, playfully dancing around the polearm that aimed for him. He knew it wasn’t intended to truly harm him, but the thrill of the weapon being so close only fueled his teasing. 

“Ah, Xiao, you kind of missed, buddy.”

“Try a little to the left next time.”

“Hey, Xiao, just in case you didn’t know, you missed.”

Oh, how in the world did Xiao end up with such a ridiculous pair of Archons? Zhongli was hardly any better in his own way! Either way, “spear the Childe” proved to be a fruitless effort just like always. But at least it proved to Xiao that Childe has been maintaining his fighting form. That brought some comfort considering the Archon’s rather…reckless and thrill-seeking tendencies. 

“If I’m gonna live as a human, I might as well make things interesting!” Is what Childe had said one day. 

“How have you been?” Xiao was pulled from his musings as Childe spoke. 

“I’ve been doing well.”

“I see.” Childe hummed with a little smile. “But, you know…I plan to make some Almond Tofu again. Care to join us for lunch?”

“We’ll see.”

Xiao watched as Childe’s expression gained a hint of sorrow. “I hope you can. You deserve to take some time off.”

The Adeptus crossed his arms, sitting down on the rock next to Childe. “I have more than enough time on my hands.”

“I know. But, you could be spending it with someone.”

“I don’t wish to intrude and I’d rather not stay around mortals for longer than I need to.”

“…But isn’t that kind of lonely?” Xiao blinked, turning to meet Childe’s gaze. 

Childe paused for a moment, rubbing the back of his neck sheepishly as he processed his words. “Ah, sorry if that was a bit out of place.”

“It’s fine. You have the right to speak that way.”

“Geez,” Childe sighed. “No need to sound so formal about it. I already get enough of that with Zongli.” Xiao had no response for that.

With a deep breath, Childe leaped from the rock he sat on, feet settling upon the ground. He turned, waving Xiao over as the Adeptus followed. The pair traveled down the road, fields of grass illuminating under the sun. 

“I sometimes get a little worried when you don’t visit for a long time, you know.” Xiao remained quiet as he listened to Childe’s softly spoken words. “You never have to stay that long for visits if you don’t want to and I know you’re highly capable of watching out for yourself, but…I can’t help it.”

Xiao nodded in response. It would make sense considering Childe’s natural affinity for caring and guiding the young. It reminded him of the day when he first encountered the future Archon. 

That still didn’t make Childe’s dotting nature any less embarrassing though.

Yes, Xiao’s Archons could be quite the handful. But he would do practically anything for them. Other than defending Liyue and keeping the order, Xiao has the wish of making sure his Archons can continue smiling. 

They deserve it after all they’ve gone through. 

And if Xiao began to drop by more frequently for something as simple as brief greetings, then that was for him and his Archons to know.

Chapter Text

The finely plated cup tilted gently, the steel revealing a bright sheen as the light bounced off the material. Within it, osmanthus wine swirled idly. The liquid reflected heterochromatic eyes, the image wavering as the owner allowed the cup to sway in a circular motion once more. From some distance away, a grand room filled with conversations.

Nearly silent steps reached Ajax’s ears, Morax making his way beside the younger. Ajax could only sigh at the time. “Morax.”

“Ajax.” He had responded. His eyes then lingered on the steel cup in the other’s grasp. “Is the wine not to your liking?”

“It’s not that. I do enjoy it. The flavor is pleasant.” Ajax answered honestly. He had then given off a slight frown. “I’ve…just been thinking.”

“Thinking?”

Ajax’s expression had turned hesitant, semi-glaring at his reflection from within his cup. “Morax, why are you keeping me around?”

For Ajax, it was a valid question. The Archon War had come to an official end and now they had all gathered to drink. It was meant to be celebratory, Archons and lands being established once and for all. And yet, Ajax couldn’t help but wonder where he fitted in the equation.

Earlier, Morax’s voice had rung out across the table. It was only natural he would take charge after all. But Ajax can remember clear as day how the eldest of them all declared how Ajax will be ruling by his side. The other Archons were curious, all eyes on the minor God of Youth much to Ajax’s discomfort. Many were curious why Morax had such interest in a powerful, yet minor god. Others wondered why Ajax wasn’t receiving his own nation to rule over. Then, some thought Ajax wasn’t enough to share the throne of Geo. The same negative opinions followed the idea of Ajax having his own established rule. 

It stung a bit, but it was completely expected. In the end, only a select few seemed to support the outcome involving Morax and Ajax. One of them approving voices coming from a god who values freedom which didn't say too much since it was considered a natural response. 

Morax had remained silent, voice quiet as he answered. “I want you by my side.”

Ajax’s grip had tightened around his cup, brows furrowing as he avoided eye contact with the other. “If you’re only keeping me around for the Gnosis, then just say so. I don’t want you to lie in my face and make it sound more sentimental than it is.” 

Neither of them had shared what occurred between them on the day of Guizhong’s passing. None of the Archons know, nor did any of the other gods they had encountered during the war. Besides Morax and Ajax, the only ones who know of the split Gnosis are the remaining Adepti who have sworn their loyalty to them. The remaining Adepti were obviously upset and unsettled by the news. After all, a split Gnosis was not a small issue.

Celestia forbid if the wrong people learned that a Gnosis could be shared. For one to remove it was already considered an offense. To give it to another? Incompressible. To break it? Taboo. To share the pieces? Unheard of. 

If anyone were to find out, all the efforts of bringing the Archon War to an end would likely be shattered. It would cause an uproar. An absolute outrage! Even then, what would Celestia itself think?

Ajax felt a pressure on his shoulder, the younger turning his gaze only to meet Morax’s eyes. The older had frowned, seeming unsure. “I…I apologize if that is how I made it appear. But I swear that I want you by my side not for the other half.”

“Then,” Ajax had swallowed, staring desperately into those eyes of cor lapis. “Why?”

An uncomfortable silence stretched between them, Morax opening and closing his mouth as he tried to form a reply. And yet, Ajax had watched as the older failed to utter a single word. At some point, Morax’s grip tightened slightly as his expression became troubled. A rare sight to witness on the face of someone like Morax.

“I…” Ajax had felt his chest clench at the pure uncertainty within Morax’s voice. “I am not sure. I just…want you by my side because I can not imagine you not being beside me. I do not know why.”

Releasing a silent breath, Ajax held his wine cup with a single hand, his other resting atop Morax’s. The younger’s eyes had softened, understanding how Morax was struggling with emotions he had yet to properly learn. 

Perhaps, now that the war is over, Morax could get the chance to finally understand such a mortal thing. 

“Morax,” Ajax had spoken gently and Morax found himself being captured by those heterochromatic eyes. “What are we?”

The older could only look on with confusion. He did not understand why Ajax asked such an obvious question. Was this some sort of test? 

Eventually, Morax had finally answered while Ajax waited patiently. Cor lapis eyes met Ajax’s with visible bewilderment. “We…are gods, are we not?”

The pair found themselves unable to remove their gazes from one another. It was almost like they were trapped within a hypnotic spell. But, the trance was severed as Ajax closed his eyes with a soft sigh. Morax could only observe as Ajax’s eyes opened. 

Morax had no words as Ajax’s expression appeared…sorrowful. Yet, accepting and understanding. Maybe even empathetic. Or was it sympathetic? Morax wasn’t entirely sure. 

However, something deep within Morax told him that his answer to Ajax’s question was completely wrong. 

Despite that sensation, which left a rather unsettling sensation within his mind, Ajax still smiled at him. Morax listened carefully to the other’s words before Ajax had parted ways with him, figure vanishing from sight toward the other partying Archons. 

“Morax, I hope you can figure out what we are for yourself. Once you have found an answer, please share it with me another time. I’ll be waiting.”

The eldest god had tried several times since that night. He failed every time, and he knew he did because Ajax would smile sadly and leave. It caused something to burn within him. It was a familiar sensation he gained from facing an enemy and yet… 

Morax didn’t understand why such simple failures scorched at him and made him desire to break something.

What is the correct answer? What was Ajax seeking? 

It felt like Guizhong’s stone dumbbell all over again. But, somehow, it was worse.

Zhongli was strolling down the streets of Liyue Harbor, making his way toward where Childe should be. However, he was swift to pick up on the hushed conversations that sprung up the closer he got to his destination. Eventually, he found himself pausing as the crowd blocked his way. From where he stood, he could see the building that is the Wanmin Restaurant. 

The scent of various dishes became heavier the closer he got. Zhongli could only sigh before giving a slight smile to himself. He already had a good idea of what was occurring. And so, with some difficulty, he managed to weave himself toward the front of the crowd. 

His ears were instantly met with the sound of crackling flames and the clanging of multiple pots and pans. There were hurried steps, the thud from seasoning bottles, and the sizzling of cooking food. In the center of the chaos, or more like the source of it, was a young girl and young man. The girl wore her dark hair in unique braids, eyes a golden-yellow that carried a certain creative spark to them. It was fitting that her eyes matched that golden-yellow perfection gained from perfectly made dishes. Nearby was the very familiar young man, ginger hair glowing under the light of the setting sun and flames. His heterochromatic eyes were filled with intense focus, spatula flipping a slab of tender meat. 

Golden eyes spotted Zhongli from within the crowd, Xiangling’s expression brightening even further if it was possible. “Ah, Mr. Zhongli!”

Childe’s head whipped over so fast that it was a surprise that he didn’t injure himself. He offered a bright grin, the man wearing a red apron with whale and narwhal images. It created a rather interesting design. “Zhongli, you made it just in time for another cook-off!”

He then quickly checked to make sure the meat was alright before wandering over to a nearby table. Zhongli made his way over with permission, much to the jealousy of some of the locals. Others already expected it considering Zhongli’s connections. 

Childe made his way back, a plate of almond tofu fresh and recently made. Zhongli inspected it from where he stood, taking note of the minor differences he could pick up. “Did you add something new this time?”

With a chuckle, Childe looked upon the dish with pride. “I’ve been experimenting a bit. I wondered if I could make Xiao something even better the next time he comes over. Mind test tasting?”

Zhongli lightly nodded his head with fondness. “I’d be honored to.”

Xiangling hurried over, a steaming dish in her hands. She held it up toward Zhongli with enthusiasm. Sitting upon her head and nibbling on a snack was her odd pet, Guoba. “Mr. Zhongli, you have to try this new dish! Childe helped me get the meat from some fish from Snezhnayan waters and the condensate from the cryo slimes! I was thinking about making something more exotic and cold, but also giving that spicy burst of Liyue!”

“Of course,” Zhongli spoke up. “I’ll be sure to give you proper criticism.”

“Thank you, Mr. Zhongli!”

Zhongli peered over at Childe, meeting the other’s eyes from over Xiangling’s head. He raised a brow as if asking the younger, “A fish from Snezhnaya?”

All Childe could offer was a bashful chuckle and a shrug. He silently mouthed back, “Thought she’d be interested. Snezhnaya has interesting fish.”

Mentally, Zhongli sweatdropped. “He’s just trying to make an excuse for spoiling yet another young one he blessed.”

That was all he could manage before the rivals pulled him to an available seat. Ah, Zhongli knew he was going to end up as the guinea pig the moment he wandered close. 

Yet, all it took was one glance at Childe’s joyous mood and Zhongli found himself not minding at all. He has truly grown quite weak for the younger god. Not that it was a bad thing. Not one bit. 

A carefree voice had rung within the air, Morax feeling the way strands of his hair swayed in the gentle breeze. Within a seat across from him sat Barbatos. The ends of his braids seemed to glow, eyes twinkling with something untamable.

“Ah, Morax, what appears to be troubling you, friend?” He had asked innocently. 

“I summoned you here because I would like you to offer me your perspective on a certain matter.” Morax elaborated. 

“Oh?” Barbatos had voiced with curiosity. 

Morax had furrowed his brows in thought as he explained. “A while ago, Ajax had asked me a certain question. He asked me what we are and I have continued to answer him time and time again. Yet, it appears that every answer I have given him is wrong. As much as I would like to go about this with no assistance, I am at a loss. You are the only one who could understand what Ajax is asking of me.”

Barbatos hummed, a contemplative glint in his eyes as he stared at Morax. He had leaned on the table as he spoke. “Well, what kind of answers did you give him?”

“I told him that we are gods. Later, I have told him we are Archons. I have also tried “allies”, “immortals”, and “comrades” among many other answers.” Morax’s frown deepened and Barbatos could only observe just how troubled the older had become due to this. “Yet, everything has proven to be wrong.”

“…Well, that’s because he’s asking about what he is to you.”

Morax blinked. “Hm?”

Barbatos sighed, giving a knowing smile. His hand had rested on his cheek as he explained. “I think Ajax is asking about how you view your relationship with him. He wants to know how you truly feel about him and, depending on your answer, that will set a label on the both of you.”

“But…I have used relationship terms.” Morax had replied with confusion. “I do not understand.”

The older god watched as Barbatos’ playful nature seemed to melt away into something more serious. Those eyes bore into Morax’s own with a certain intensity of knowledge Morax couldn’t hope to grasp. “It’s your eyes that give it away.”

“My eyes?”

Barbatos leaned back in his seat with a sigh and a faint pout at how dense Morax was behaving. “When you said you called him things like “ally” and “comrade”, I saw uncertainty in your eyes. If you’re going to give him an answer to what he is to you, then you got to make sure you mean it and are sure of it. So far, you’re doing no more than just spitting out guesses.”

“I…do not spit?”

“That’s not the point.”

Barbatos gave a sympathetic look toward Morax, knowing that the eldest of the gods was still rather new to something so human such as emotions. “If I had to guess, I’d say you love him.”

“Love…?”

“But love comes in many forms,” Barbatos continued. “It’s up to you what kind of love it is. I think I know, but I want you to tell me.”

Morax was stunned into silence, reviewing whatever knowledge he could of the idea of “love”. He’s pretty sure that’s what mortals feel with family and he’s sure that’s also what drives mortals to commit to the marriage ritual. But, the idea of calling Ajax “family” didn’t feel quite right. Yes, “Ajax” and “family” do make something click in place within him. Yet…

The idea of viewing Ajax like a…“brother”, as humans would put it, or some other familial term did not sound correct. Ajax is “family”, but only in a certain way. Morax sighed, not understanding. How can one be family, but also not fit with the idea of “family” like he’s seen among so many mortals?

From across the table, Barbatos’ expression had softened. “What would you feel if he were to leave and never return? Do you ever look at him and feel like things in the world are easier? Have you ever felt tempted to hold hands or make some form of physical contact with him? Have you ever desired something more from him—and I don’t mean Archon responsibilities. Tell me, friend…Describe Ajax to me from your perspective.”

Morax inhaled deeply, an internal storm brewing within his mind in a way he’s never experienced before. Barbatos did not interrupt, nor did he make any judgments even as Morax’s voice stuttered. 

Barbatos listened with patience, taking in every detail.

By the end, Morax opened his eyes only to see the Anemo Archon smiling oh so gently. And maybe, a part of Morax finally understood even a fraction of what he had just said. 

“Morax,” Barbatos had finally spoken with pride and tenderness. It was almost like when Ajax spoke to children. “I’m sure you know the answer you should give him.”

“And if it’s incorrect?”

Barbatos had chuckled, the sound as freeing as the breeze. “I’d be surprised if it was wrong. But, you never know until you try. Something tells me if Ajax is this concerned about how you view each other, then I’m sure this should be correct.”

“…Thank you for your insight, Barbatos.”

“Anything for a fellow Archon and friend. …Anyway, got anything to drink? I prefer wine. And, who knows, maybe I’ll make a song out of this?”

Morax had given the other a deadpan stare. “Please don’t.”

The room filled with Barbatos’ carefree laughter. 

“I hope you’re prepared for the long road ahead, Morax.”

By the time Childe returned home, the sun was setting beyond the horizon. It left a lingering mixture of warm and cool colors within the sky, the moon gradually becoming visible. A yawn escaped him, the sensation of drowsiness clawing at him as he carried himself. It was to be expected considering that he just completed this year’s Rite of Descension. While he managed to do Rex Lapis’ part just fine and enjoyed blessing the young, it was a good way of wearing him out. Childe hoped that the was a good reason for Zhongli skipping out on this year’s Rite. Even if there wasn’t, he knew he wouldn’t stay upset at Zhongli for long. 

The moment he stepped inside the house, he immediately took note of the comfortably warm air. He could pick up the scent of food and some noise from the dining room. With curiosity, he wandered over toward the source. 

Zhongli hummed as he heard Childe’s footsteps. Turning around, he welcomed the other with a warm smile. “You’re back. Did everything go well? Last I checked, you conveyed my guidance to the people quite nicely.”

Childe found his mind wandering, eyes examining the modest dinner table. Among the variety of food was a lone dish he didn’t recognize and there was even a decorative box nearby. It wasn’t hard to figure out that it must be a gift. This was certainly a surprise to come back to. As for the unknown dish… Did Zhongli try to make something original? It did look pretty good.

“Zhongli,” Childe questioned through his tired mind. “What’s all this for?” 

The older lightly chuckled, taking obvious notice of Childe’s exhaustion. With slow, yet smooth movements, he gently wrapped an arm around the younger’s waist. “Did you forget about our anniversary?”

Zhongli then became thoughtful. “Actually, how long has it been since we’ve wedded? I believe I lost count after we reached a thousand.”

Childe glanced away from whatever expression Zhongli wore, slight embarrassment taking over. “Well…it may have slipped my mind for a little bit.”

Childe had then placed a hand upon his own chest where the Gnosis is. “But something is telling me this is even more of a special occasion than usual. Your feelings have been leaving me a bit anxious all day…”

Zhongli’s smile turned a tad guilty. His hold around Childe tightened a bit, the older resting his chin on the other’s shoulder. “I apologize for that. I tried to keep myself calm for your sake.”

Childe leaned into the sturdy warmth Zhongli’s figure provided. “So, did you try and make something in the kitchen? I’m usually the one who cooks.”

Zhongli briefly averted his gaze, examining the dish he made from where he stood. “Hm, yes. I reviewed all the culinary lessons you have provided and decided to experiment. I don’t have a name for it yet, but it came out better than I thought.”

The older god then wrapped his other arm around Childe’s waist, completing the embrace as he pressed himself against the younger’s back. They simply took some moments to soak in the comfort shared between them, no words needed. With care, Childe slightly turned his body, a hand cupping the side of Zhongli’s face. 

“There’s something you want to ask me, right? It must be pretty important to you if I’m sensing it this much.”

Zhongli’s expression remained indifferent despite the pinkish hue developing across his face like a dusting of makeup. Childe could see the way those bright eyes gained a hint of hesitance. 

Swallowing, Zhongli spoke up softly. “I know we’ve discussed it in the past. Several times actually. But, well…” He smiled shyly, Childe internally chuckling at the odd display. 

“I get it, but are you sure? There’s a reason we’ve held off on it.” Childe spoke up with a raised brow. “We have no clue what to expect. Not even the other Adepti will know how it could go. Even with shapeshifting, we don’t know how it’ll work.”

Zhongli’s hold became more secure, lips brushing past Childe’s ear. The younger man shivered at the unexpected contact. “I am aware, but I’d like to try. I want to entwine my future with you even further.”

Childe emitted a huff of laughter, craning his neck so he could nuzzle against Zhongli’s face. “…You’ve changed a lot. I never thought you’d be asking for something like this. Thousands of years ago, you didn’t even understand what courting was.”

There was a brief wince as Zhongli tilted his head away. He gave a fake cough at the other’s words. “Y-Yes and it is thanks to you that we’ve managed to even make it this far.”

“In a way, you’re still as hopeless as ever.”

“Childe…!” A little more awake now, Childe had completely spun himself around, both hands tenderly holding Zhongli’s flushed face. Before the older god could speak a word, warm lips connected with his own. 

It was gentle and light, lasting for mere moments. Yet, it was just enough to leave both reluctant to pull away for long. Childe’s expression was playful, the younger winking at Zhongli. 

“You better not be too rusty with me later. I’ll be completely in your care.”

Zhongli nodded. “Of course. I’ll accept full responsibility.” 

No more words were needed, heated lips pressing against one another once more. 

“ Ajax…I would like to speak with you.” Morax had announced one day, approaching the younger god. It had been over a hundred years since Barbatos had aided him with Ajax’s confusing question. And as much as he wished to share the answer way sooner, something held Morax back. 

He needed to make sure this was right. He was pretty sure that this is right. 

Those heterochromatic eyes connected with his own, a sparkle of interest glinting within. “Hm?” Ajax had hummed.

Morax found his tongue refusing to speak words. It had caught him off guard, not expecting to become so, as humans would put it, “tongue-tied”. Where had his confidence gone? He was thrumming with the need to talk mere moments ago. And now, it had vanished into an uncomfortable sensation. It was almost as if Morax was cursed, unable to verbalize the words he desired to. Was this yet another human emotion? 

Yet, Ajax waited patiently. It was almost like the younger god knew what Morax wanted to say. 

“H-Humans,” Morax managed to choke out, his deep voice uncharacteristically quiet in volume. He did not hesitate to push past the sudden need to remain silent. He already managed to fight for his words, the least he could do was finish what he wanted to convey. “They…—When they desire to be closer to someone in a certain way, they enter a courtship.”

Ajax had faintly nodded, confirming the words as true. 

Morax continued, the odd pressure swirling within his chest never pausing. “Would you…enter a courtship with me?”

“Morax, is this your answer to my question?”

The older god nodded slowly. “You asked me what we are and I have failed many times in my attempts to discover the correct answer. But, even now, I still do not know what we are. However,” Eyes of cor lapis met those enchanting heterochromatic ones. “I want us to be something more than whatever we are right now.”

For the first time since Ajax had posed that lone question, the younger had smiled with something shimmering with pride and happiness. It was completely different from that sorrowful smile and longing eyes Morax was so accustomed to whenever his answer was wrong. Internally, he felt incredibly pleased by the reaction. 

“It’s about time,” Ajax had breathed, a hand resting against his own chest. Morax stared, noticing how the other’s hand was over where Ajax’s half of the Gnosis should be. 

“You…knew this entire time.” 

Ajax’s gaze had twinkled with something mischievous. “It took me a while to figure out why I was gaining subtle feelings. I’m not sure if the connection goes both ways, but I knew what you felt toward me.” His voice had rung with cheerful laughter. “I may not have a lot of experience with love, but I could tell that the Gnosis was trying to pass on the fondness you’ve been carrying for me.”

The laughter died down into something more gentle and soft. “The only issue was that you didn’t know what you were feeling. You didn’t even understand it.”

Morax never pulled his eyes away from the younger. “This…—You wanted me to realize what I have remained ignorant of.”

The light of the sun made Ajax’s figure glow in an ethereal way. Morax remained where he stood even as the younger god approached him, lovingly grasping his hands. Ajax’s smile was even brighter than the sun. 

“I’d be happy to be courted by you.”

“I’ll be honest, I do not know what I am doing.” Morax had admitted with some shame and embarrassment. 

Ajax didn’t allow such a thing to get in the way. He had lightly squeezed Morax’s hands, offering reassurance. “Then follow my lead and I’ll help you learn how to do things properly.”

“I won’t let you down.”

It wouldn’t be until around three hundred years later when Morax first speaks the words “I love you”. Until that day came, Ajax hadn’t said such words. He wanted Morax to be the one to settle on whether or not such precious words should be spoken. He wanted Morax to be the one to sort through the complicated sensations that came with the concept of “love”. 

When Morax finally uttered such a brief, yet genuine sentence, Ajax was swift to repeat it in return. 

And, in about seventy years after that development, Morax and Ajax had pressed their lips together for the first time. It was an incredibly slow process, but Ajax was more than ready to be patient with Morax. He was more than ready to keep holding his hand throughout the discovery process.

In the end, it was all worth every single moment. 

And, perhaps, it was time to walk somewhere even further. Together.

Chapter Text

An orange hue had illuminated the area, reflecting off of heterochromatic eyes. All, except for one, had continued to gaze upon the amber structure, a small humanoid figure contained within. 

“…What have you done?” Ajax had questioned and the Adepti who were present could only look away. All could hear how Ajax’s voice had sounded like a stretched thread, just barely at a breaking point. 

Almost as if dealing with something more fragile than glass or porcelain, Ajax had lightly pressed his fingertips atop the surface of the glowing amber. If he tried hard enough, the god could have seen more details as to what remained imprisoned within. 

“It is an error on our part.” Mountain Shaper had spoken softly, bowing before one of the gods he and the other Adepti have been contracted to. “The child had been caught amidst the battle and there was a…desire to rectify the end result. All of us have chosen to take responsibility.”

Nearby, an Adeptus flinched in response to the wording. He had tightened his grip around his polearm, golden eyes never leaving the ground. He didn’t dare speak a word.

Ajax’s eyes had narrowed, a frown forming upon his lips. Yet, it was not an expression of anger. “You had confirmed her passing before you all…?”

“Correct.” Cloud Retainer answered solemnly.

Ajax had leaned closer, eyes spotting the barely noticeable shape of a Vision within the amber’s depths. His expression had softened with sadness at the sight. 

“It’s my fault.”

The other Adepti snapped their attention over to the Yaksha in stunned silence, not expecting him to speak. Xiao’s grip on his polearm threatened to snap the weapon, expression tense. One could tell that any display of anger was not directed at an outside source. 

Ajax had never moved from his spot as Xiao spoke, gaze unwilling to part from the amber.

“I didn’t…If I had better control over my abilities, there would have likely been no casualties.” Xiao had swallowed, his hands clenched to the point that slivers of blood leaked from his skin. “If it were not for my carelessness, then this outcome would have been—“

“…She wished for time to freeze…”

All had fallen quiet, even the most indifferent Adepti feeling uneasy at the sorrow seeping within Ajax’s tone. The Adepti kept their heads bowed. 

“Can her soul pass on? Has it passed on? Can she hear? Can she feel? Is that adeptal energy causing her pain? …What has become of her?” No one had an answer, but every word Ajax muttered was soaked further and further with grief. 

For the God of Youth, the one who has witnessed the birth and growth of many mortals, such a sight was a painful one. And the sight of a Vision, a divine blessing, felt like a mockery.

This wasn’t the first time Ajax had heard the fleeting words and thoughts of a mortal born under his watch. As the protector of the young, he could hear the dreams they desire most. And as a mortal’s life ends, their last desires hold more power than anything else.

Ajax learned what it meant to listen to the dreams of his “children”. From the beginning to the very end. It was something he learned to cope with. He had to. He couldn’t afford to let such awful things break him down every single time. After all, mortality is a fickle thing and life is a lovely yet cruel cycle. 

But this… This was unlike anything Ajax had ever witnessed — had ever felt. 

All refrained from glancing at one another. The Adepti had to restrain themselves, holding onto their composure even as the air filled with mournful cries. Ajax had kneeled before the amber containing the unfortunate child, leaning his forehead against it as if trying to connect with a soul he wasn’t sure was there. 

Sobs had wracked the air, echoing across the ruins and remains of yet a new battlefield. 

It didn’t take long for Morax to arrive, not understanding Ajax’s tardiness. He had walked upon the scene with indifference, eyes glinting with something temporary once he spotted Ajax’s state. 

The younger god’s robes were stained with the earth, face flushed and voice hoarse and weak. 

When Morax had dismissed the Adepti, Xiao was the first the leave. The Yaksha’s swiftness aided his abrupt departure. 

The tall mountains of Liyue cast stretched shadows upon the land, the sun shining brightly within clear skies. Near the base of one of these mountains, a small hand reached forth for the next climb. High up, the petals of violetgrass shimmered with fresh dew almost like the bait found at the end of a fishing line.

Qiqi emitted a soft huff, pulling her short form to a little area jutting out from the mountainside. She continued forward across the flat ground, arms raising to the next rocky surface to climb. 

Minutes passed and Qiqi’s expression had taken a light frown. The route she usually takes had been slicked due to the recent rainfall, leaving the girl to struggle in her task. Eventually, she somehow managed to gain some grip before hoisting herself up. 

She made it a good few feet up before she slipped. Qiqi barely made a sound of surprise as gravity took hold. 

The young girl found herself exhaling sharply from the impact, a pair of arms catching her. Qiqi blinked, completely expecting to fall upon the tough ground. 

“Geez, be more careful! I get that you’re a zombie, but you shouldn’t be careless!”

Qiqi turned her head, recognizing the voice. “Good afternoon, Mr. Childe.”

There was a sigh before Childe carefully placed Qiqi down. “I told you to just call me Childe. No need for formalities.”

“Sorry…I forgot.” All Childe did was offer a kind smile, not bothered by the familiar words.

He then glanced up with a quiet whistle, mentally assessing just how high the climb is. “So, what’re you looking for this time? Violetgrass?”

“Yes. The stock is getting low, so I was asked to retrieve some.” Qiqi hummed thoughtfully. “But the recent rainfall is making the climb up a bit difficult…”

Childe crossed his arms. “Well then, in that case, let me fetch that for you. You can do something a little easier while I do so.”

Qiqi tilted her head. “Ah, but…it’s an order.”

“Qiqi, at this rate, you won’t be getting that violetgrass and I don’t want you to hurt yourself.” Childe insisted. 

The young girl frowned at the suggestion. “But—“ 

She paused as Childe suddenly emitted a soft sigh. He had then walked past her without a word before turning to kneel. With care, he tenderly embraced the zombie girl from behind with as much love he could. Qiqi remained silent as she took in the warmth that naturally came from a living being. 

Childe’s voice spoke gently, his tone as fragile as glass. “I love you the most. So, will you please allow me to help you?” 

For the God of Youth, he holds many close to his heart, and some of them even closer. However, even if there are those like Zhongli that he loves in greater ways, there will forever be a special place in his heart for his “children”. Any time he must do this in order to cancel Qiqi’s orders, he does not lie or speak such words with carelessness. 

Childe truly does love and care for her. He desires to love, care, and protect all because he loves all of them the most too. 

And just like that, Qiqi blinked. Her bright eyes seemed a tad clearer, almost as if waking from a daydream. The persistent urge to complete her ordered task melted away as she nodded in agreement. 

“Thank you,” Childe muttered before releasing his hold on her. “Now, how about you show me your notebook and let’s see what else you have to do today?”

Qiqi’s indifferent expression altered as her lips formed a tiny smile. With a pleasant hum, she brought out her notebook while Childe looked over her short figure to read it.

Yes, Childe is an odd one. At least, that’s what Qiqi thinks. However, she can not find it within her to view it as a bad thing. Despite her preference for cold temperatures, something about Childe’s warm presence always brought comfort. 

Qiqi couldn’t explain why even though she has pondered over it. Another fact she has recognized is that Childe is one of the only ones who can cancel her orders without fail. Whenever Baizhu tries it, she can tell there is no sincerity behind it. Yet, she still clings to whatever concern that man does display for her — even if there’s a secret motive behind taking care of her.

Childe though… What an odd young man he is. Especially when paired with the equally mysterious and refined Mr. Zhongli of Wangsheng. 

Together, Childe and Qiqi spent many hours collecting herbs and doing simple tasks. He even bought her some cocogoat milk and gave her piggyback rides. Yes, he is odd, but Qiqi can’t find a reason to complain. 

She makes sure his kindness and face are not forgotten. However, that would be difficult to do in the first place with how often he stops by to see her.

“He is not upset at you nor his he upset toward the other Adepti.” 

Xiao had glanced down from where he was perched within a tree. Standing by the base was Morax, the god’s dark locks glimmering under golden sunlight. The silence filled with the sound of rustling leaves, a gentle breezing passing through. Xiao could only sigh, turning away to continue viewing the scenery before him. 

However, Morax had continued to stand there. “Ajax is simply distraught to lose yet another.”

“…How can he not be angry for what we did?” Xiao had found himself muttering with a glare. “We should’ve known better than to try and fix the death of a mortal, Vision or not.”

“Perhaps that may be so.” Morax had agreed calmly. “It may have been best to let the cycle take its course regardless of one’s perspective of “fairness”. But I can not speak for you nor the other Adepti. All I can do is trust that everyone chose such a course of action out of goodwill.”

Xiao had crossed his arms, his fist clenching tightly. “That doesn’t make it any better. This wouldn’t have caused such pain if we didn’t complicate the situation with our “divine” involvement.” 

“Yet, there is no changing what has been done. And even if the result hurt him deeply, the truth remains. He does not blame a single one of you. He holds no resentment nor bitterness toward anyone. If he ever did, one would certainly know.”

Morax had given off a faint frown and a barely noticeable shudder. The sight would have been a bit more humorous if the atmosphere wasn’t so serious. “Ajax can be…quite frightening when he truly has something against another.”

Meanwhile, Xiao had remained silent, his eyes never making contact with Morax’s. The seconds seemed to tick away, a tension being carried in the wind’s caress. After a short while of unwavering patience, Morax’s eyes glinted with something like concern. It did not last long though, his face reverting to its indifferent mask. The same kind that caused many mortals and gods alike to describe him as powerful, but unfeeling.

Morax had taken the briefest of moments to think before speaking. “I would recommend speaking to Ajax. He has always been better with…emotional wording. Perhaps he himself can convince you to not dwell on this tragedy.”

There was still no response from the Yaksha. 

And by the time he had finally glanced back down at the base of the tree, Morax had long since left. 

Xiao refused to follow the advice one of his gods had given him. He didn’t wish to face Ajax. Especially not so soon.

Xiao had denied the way something clawed at him from within. It was an eerily familiar sensation. The same that came with the aftermath of every unwilling slaughter he had committed before his contract and blessing from Morax and Ajax.

Perhaps, that was the emotion known as…guilt? Remorse? Yet, it shook him in a way that he could only compare to “fear”. 

Here, Xiao had a buried part of him worry that these gods who freed him would betray him just like his previous master. He feared that they would cause the hurt all over again. But instead, it was he who had a hand in causing such grief.

And it was inflicted upon the one who had held him so tenderly despite his vile and sinful state of being and existence. 

His tongue slightly peeked from his lips, expression tight with concentration. Yet, despite Childe’s rather serious aura, his eyes sparkled with mischief. Silent steps approached, catching up to him. Qiqi leaned away from the boxes within her grasp, her gaze looking upward toward him. Her face gave away her faint curiosity. Near Bubu Pharmacy, the pond waters glistened like a mirror under the sun’s rays. The scales of the fish shimmered as they idly swam within the still water that had a stone path going through it. 

Qiqi lightly exhaled, her talisman fluttering for a moment as she regained some sight. “Childe?”

The young man hummed thoughtfully. “Hu Tao usually comes around here at this time, right?” He glanced down in time to see her nod and he grinned. 

“How about you drop those boxes off at the pharmacy. Come right back here though. I don’t want you to miss this.”

Qiqi tilted her head, still not quite understanding what the other was planning, but agreed anyway. She made her way across and up the stairs leading to the pharmacy. Childe watched her from where he stood, making sure she would make it to her destination safely. It went rather smoothly except for a tiny slip-up. 

Childe had flinched, body jolting forward a bit in response only to sigh with relief as Qiqi regained her balance. She vanished from his field of vision, leaving him with a nervous smile. “Geez, kid…”

Minutes had passed and that’s when Childe finally perked up with attention. His gaze locked on to a certain individual, a young girl dressed in dark Liyuean clothing. Anyone with eyes would be able to recognize her as Hu Tao. And, almost as if the stars aligned, Childe spot Qiqi’s distinct hair color enter his sight near the stairs. His grin became tinged with something feral. He stared at Qiqi, the girl pausing as they locked eyes. The zombie girl had stopped on the step she was on, receiving the silent message of “stay put” Childe had conveyed with his eyes alone. She watched as Childe’s mischievous gaze flickered toward Hu Tao and Qiqi found herself both bewildered at what he was trying to say and irritated at the sight of Hu Tao. But she stayed where she was, observing with patience. 

Childe had his back facing the pathway, pose causal as he leaned his arms on the railing. He had managed to reign in his chaotic aura, leaving none but Qiqi aware of his intentions. 

Almost like a sort of sixth sense, Childe knew exactly when Hu Tao’s footsteps were just about to walk past him. He very faintly turned his head, staring at her from his peripherals. She strolled by closest to the railing opposite of him. The anticipation swelled within his chest and it took everything he had to not give himself away. 

With a single flick and twirl of his index finger, what transpired was too quick for the human eye.

The nearby locals startled at Hu Tao’s stunned cry, the peaceful atmosphere shattering like glass. Hu Tao was strolling along one moment and now she found herself somehow dunked within the pond. The only warning she gained was an odd sensation within her gut as her gravity changed. Not even she is entirely aware of what just happened. She was walking beside the railing, but she didn’t notice anyone or anything that could’ve bumped into her. 

From the opposite end of the pathway, Childe snickered within his gloved hand. No one paid him any mind, too baffled by the sight of the head of Wangsheng drenched in a pond. Childe slipped away without a sound, making his way over to Qiqi.

Qiqi blinked as she felt a gentle hand pat her hat. She glanced upward, slightly surprised at just how quickly Childe had appeared by her side. The young man sat upon the stair steps with hushed giggles. 

Childe turned toward Qiqi and the young girl did her best to memorize the pure elation in his bright grin. “So? How was that?”

Qiqi took a moment to process the question before offering a pleased expression. Childe swelled with pride as he noticed how Qiqi’s smile almost became a grin. There was just the tiniest sliver of visible teeth. He draped a comforting arm over her, his other hand searching through the satchel he brought along. Qiqi could only watch as he brought out some cocogoat milk and a lovely journal that reminded her of her outfit.

“Happy birthday, Qiqi.”

Oh. Oh. Her birthday. Huh…

Qiqi was snapped out of her realization by Childe’s joyful chuckles. The zombie girl rubbed the back of her neck with some embarrassment. “My birthday…? Oh, I forgot.”

“That’s alright!” Childe responded, cheerfully making sure she received her gifts properly. Qiqi held them close to her chest, hugging them close to ensure they didn’t fall. 

Qiqi felt warm, something Childe always managed to do without causing her discomfort. It made her curious why anything else that made her warm, such as the sun, always bothered her. The heat making her feel as if she was rotting. And yet, Childe simply made such concerns bleed away. 

His warmth was something Qiqi simply was unable to comprehend. 

Or maybe…she already knew the answer, but simply forgot it.

Childe looked back, amusing himself along with Qiqi as Hu Tao dragged herself out of the pond. When Childe met Qiqi’s brightly colored eyes, he spoke with an unimaginable fondness. 

“Qiqi, since it’s your birthday, let’s celebrate. And let me know if you need anyone else knocked off their perch today. I’ll be happy to oblige.”

The overgrown blades of grass folded under the weight of his footsteps. The sky was dark, specs of light blanketing the sky like a veil. Within the natural darkness that followed, the illuminating glow of amber bathed a certain radius of the area. Xiao had made a quiet approach, golden eyes spotting Ajax who was kneeled before the amber seal. In the silence, the Adeptus could hear hushed apologies. The corners of his lips had slightly curved down with the beginnings of a frown. 

It was an odd sight to see a god, minor or not, whispering sweet apologies to the body of a mortal. 

A part of Xiao felt his chest twist further at the revelation. Until now, he had not confronted Ajax. Nor had he bothered to return to this spot that Ajax has visited at least once a day. At least, that is what he had been hearing. Ajax had his own responsibilities and yet he always managed to visit the amber at least for a minute if the schedule didn’t allow much. 

“Xiao?” Ajax had spoken, turning to look over his shoulder at the Adeptus standing feet away. Ah, it was no surprise he sensed Xiao’s presence. 

With ease, Xiao had kneeled before the other. “Ajax…” 

He did not glance up, feeling the god’s eyes on him. He bit back a frown, sensing some sort of disapproval within the air. Was Morax wrong about how Ajax feels?

“You don’t have to kneel before me like that. Especially when such formalities aren’t needed.” Ajax had explained quietly. He then lightly patted an empty spot next to him. “Please, sit. I can tell that something is weighing heavily upon you.”

Without a word, Xiao had made his way over with slight awkwardness. Something twitched in his limbs and told him to just leave. Another part wished to stay and take whatever punishment may ensue. Ajax could only watch with a heavy heart as Xiao had stiffly sat down next to him. Ajax already knew what the issue was and he hoped he could clear the Yaksha’s mind. 

The natural ambiance echoed around them, the immortal pair gazing upon the mystical glow of the amber as well as the figure within. Ajax had waited patiently for several minutes, only to realize that he would have to speak first. He had hoped Xiao would be the one to initiate the inevitable conversation. 

Ah, but maybe someday Ajax will be able to get the Adeptus to be more honest about his emotions. But now wasn’t that day. 

Ajax’s voice had breached the tense silence, his tone so gentle that it was barely disruptive. 

“She will awaken one day.”

Xiao glanced over at the god from where he sat. Ajax simply continued, eyes shining with something hopeful. “No matter the strength of the seal, time and the elements will wear it down. It is much like Morax says. Not even his greatest creations will remain perfect forever. This amber… I know that it will break and she’ll be free. Who knows what will occur when that day arrives…”

Ajax had turned and Xiao couldn’t help, but finally meet the god’s eyes. The Adeptus had blinked, not expecting the swirl of positivity within the other’s mismatched eyes. 

There was hope, there was fascination, there was anticipation. It was clear that Ajax was doing his best to expect a good outcome. He did his best to not let the fear of the worst consume him. Xiao had opened his mouth to speak, only to find no will or strength to make a sound.

Ajax had returned his gaze to the amber, hands clasping in his lap. “When she wakes up, I’d love to meet her… Wouldn’t you?”

Before Xiao could process an answer, he had gone still at Ajax’s melancholic expression and words. They were words that carried times that were no longer there. It was something that felt painfully nostalgic. At least, that was how Xiao would have described it.

“I remember the day she was born.” Ajax had then emitted a barely audible chuckle. “She was so tiny and cute even back then. I wish I could’ve gotten to know more of what kind of person she had grown to be…”

Xiao could feel a burning pressure that scorched him from within. His nails dug into his arms as he finally broke, spitting his words out with bitterness. “I get it! Just…!” Realizing what he had just done, he reeled in his burst of frustration. 

The Yaksha exhaled slowly, head bowed and he stared at his crossed legs. “I’ll take whatever punishment you give me for my actions.”

“Xiao—“

“My previous master hurt me a lot, so I can take whatever price I must pay—“

Ajax had moved swiftly and Xiao tensed, expecting the god to lash out at him. He could’ve moved if he desired, but accepted the predictable outcome. 

And yet, Ajax had shattered his expectations yet again.

Xiao let out a breath with a minor choke from the weight against his chest. He took a moment to register the warmth that gently embraced his tense form. Ajax, the one who has the right to punish him for the child’s demise, was embracing him. 

Just through the hug alone, Xiao could just tell that there was not an ounce of malice. Ajax had always been too honest. Not even wartime changed that. 

“Xiao,” Ajax had spoken with care. “The people born and brought into this land, whether they are my followers or not, are like my children. It is to be expected that I would be hurt. Life is full of hurt. But, even if those “children” of mine hurt me, I’ll do my best to forgive them.”

“Ajax—"

“Xiao, you and the other Adepti have hurt me. But I love you all too much and I understand the intentions you carried. It may not have turned out how you all desired, but I can understand. Please…do not feel responsible.”

“But...it was likely my powers that—“

Ajax’s embrace had grown a tad tighter, but not uncomfortable in any way. “Life is full of accidents and mistakes. But we can not turn back the clock. So, tell me… Why break yourself over something you can not undo? Mortals tend to focus on how irreparable and undoable their actions are that they are blind. But then again…”

The God of Youth sighed. “Life isn’t as simple as doing whatever you can to rectify the aftermath. Mortals are complicated. They coat their words with honey, create several hidden meanings behind those spoken letters, and allow their feelings to close their hearts whether they mean to or not. Someone could spend their life unable to amend the bad results. Other times, people say they forgive, but unconsciously still hold a fragment of resentment and hurt.”

Xiao had no words, both understanding and not understanding the wisdom Ajax was imparting. But now, he felt even more foolish. How could he have doubted one of his gods in such a manner? How could he have allowed his own heart to expect that ruthlessness Ajax carries within those battlefields? How could he have thought Ajax would be swift to hurt him when he’s been nothing, but loving? Perhaps, his previous master truly did leave a bigger imprint on him than he once thought…

“Xiao, you have a heart so use it well. No matter the strength you possess, the heart is like a diamond. It is strong, but it has a grave weakness.” Xiao’s eyes widened as something lightly pressed against his forehead, Ajax’s hand pushing aside his bangs.

“For your sake, I forgive you. Even though there was nothing to be forgiven.”

Xiao felt something trickle down his cheek, using a hand to check. Ah, tears… He didn’t expect that. 

Ajax had remained silent, being his only witness and never telling a soul. Together, the pair had simply sat there under the night sky while taking comfort in the other’s presence. 

Clearing up misunderstandings and speaking truthfully… What a relief it brought upon them both even with the heartache.

Childe remembers the day he first met Qiqi. He also remembers the second time he first met Qiqi. He keeps both memories close to his heart no matter how many details are lost. 

He barely remembers the herbal scent that wafted within the building after she was born. However, he vividly remembers her fragile and petite form bundled up in a blanket as she was brought to him. He could recall the feathery kiss to her forward as he blessed her like every other child born under his watch. He could remember seeing her at brief times. She would be wandering around, exploring, and picking fauna of various types. He could remember traversing the village she came from during his visits, hearing tales of how she accidentally picked a plant that gave her itchiness. Or some other trouble she had gotten herself into. It was amusing and a part of him to this day regretted not knowing her more personally. But he knew he has his limits. He couldn’t always be there for everyone nor could he always bond with mortals on personal levels. Yet, he valued the snippets where he had gifted her herbs or gifted her something to help make her fauna-gathering habits easier. 

The second time he first met her, he knew she would never be the same. Qiqi was still Qiqi, but she also wasn’t. There were only fleeting remnants of who the girl used to be. And as sorrowful as that was, he made sure to use his time as a “mortal” to offer her time he couldn’t. Childe remembers trying not to wince at Qiqi’s leg which was still wrapped in bandages. A wound she had gained not long before her time of death. It served as an accidental, but painful, reminder. 

Even if Qiqi herself doesn’t remember why her leg has those bandages. 

Childe likes to believe he wasn’t treating her so nicely because of his guilt. The joy he feels when making her smile or pleased solidifies this belief. He truly does care and he truly wishes to make her happy just because he wants to.

Qiqi, a girl who loves coconut milk and experiences so many emotions that she sometimes does not understand. Childe knows that these odd moments are her old self leaking through. It hurt, but there was no reset button. He can only appreciate what little of her old self still remains in her subconscious. And, perhaps, her short-term memory was a blessing in disguise.

“The warmth you feel that doesn’t make you think you’re rotting… Qiqi, that’s love. That’s happiness. It’s something treasured and good. So, make a promise in that notebook of yours for me.” 

“What is it?”

“Never forget what that special warmth within you means. It is something that shouldn’t ever be forgotten.”

Qiqi wrote it down in the new notebook he gifted her and made sure it successfully stuck within her long-term memory. She didn’t want to forget the answer she sought and had likely forgotten in the past. 

The door to their home opened quietly and Childe could recognize the familiar footsteps. “Hey, Zhongli. What’s up? Made us some tea.”

“I see. Thank you.” Zhongli responded while Childe nodded with a hum, sipping his drink.

As soon as Zhongli sat down, the clink of his teacup suddenly felt like a warning that was given too late. 

“So, I heard that you give my boss quite a shock.”

Childe’s eyes widened before sputtering, choking as he spat his tea out. 

Oh, Qiqi… She told him, didn’t she? Even if the girl didn’t, Childe just knew that Zhongli would somehow figure it out. Liyue Harbor is his city just as much as it is Childe’s. 

“Oh, come on! You can’t stand Hu Tao either!”

“Perhaps, but it is still rather unprofessional of you to toss someone of her standing into a pond.”

“Morax, you’re amused just as much as I am!”

“...”

Childe pouted. “...You’re upset I didn’t invite you to the show.”

Zhongli hummed, a rare spark in his bright eyes as he spoke. “Perhaps.”

“Fine. I guess I know what your birthday gift will be.”

“Then, the contract is sealed. I look forward to that day.”

“Whatever…”

Zhongli huffed with amusement. “Love you.”

There was a moment of silence before Childe muttered softly, face flushed pink. “Love you too. Also, don’t be late for Qiqi’s dinner party I set up!”

Zhongli’s eyes softened. “Of course. I would never miss such an important event.”

Chapter Text

Upon a desk of piling papers, a candle flickered throughout the night. The silence was broken by a defeated sigh, another paper scrapped with yet another failure. Bracing himself, he tried once more as he focused intensely on copying down a certain insignia. He didn’t even realize that someone else began to sneakily approach him from behind. 

Barbatos had emitted a pitched squeak, wings flailing and knocking items over as he moved away. The hand that had suddenly rested upon the Anemo Archon’s shoulder returned to the owner’s side. The room filled with laughter. Barbatos managed to calm his racing pulse, slowly registering what just happened before pouting. With his young human form, the expression only made him more endearing. 

“Ajax…!” Barbatos had whined. 

“Sorry, sorry, but I couldn’t help it.” Ajax had admitted, laughter dying down. However, his pleased smile had yet to fade. “Anyway, what were you focusing so hard on that you didn’t even notice—“

Before Barbatos could stop the God of Youth, Ajax had already noticed the familiar contents sealed onto the many papers. Ajax had raised a brow with amusement. “Oh? I wasn’t aware that you practice forgery, little whisp. And to try and copy Morax’s insignia that he uses for his contracts of all things…”

“A-Ah, please don’t tell him! I promise I won’t pull any pranks on him.” Barbatos had begged with fright. “I rather not get on his bad side after what happened the last time…”

“Tell him?” Ajax had voiced with a grin. ”Oh, not at all. I was going to ask if I could help you.”

“Eh?”

Ajax had wandered toward the pile of papers, examining the progress Barbatos managed so far. “Not bad, not bad. But I’ve got a trick or two that can help you out. After all, I help Morax with his contracts.” With the flick of his wrist, a small platform of water had formed, carrying a nearby ink set. 

Dipping the brush and bringing fresh paper, Ajax had gestured for Barbatos to come closer. “Now, watch carefully.”

It wouldn’t be until many centuries later that such an unused skill would end up aiding the takedown of Mondstadt’s corrupt aristocracy. How convenient. 

The door swung open with ease, footsteps making their way inside the tavern. From behind the counter, a fiery red-head glanced up from the glass he was shining. His indifferent expression somehow became even more expressionless at the sight of a certain bard in green. 

Also, were his eyes tricking him, or was the bard a bit…older looking despite maintaining that youthful face?

Diluc raised a brow as two others followed, their Liyuean clothing giving them away as foreigners. Fortunately, it proved to be a quiet night with how late it is, the tavern empty of anyone who could eavesdrop. 

The owner of the Dawn Winery gave a quick examination of the foreigners before shifting his eyes toward the slightly matured bard. “Friends of yours?”

 “Just some old friends from Liyue.” Venti chuckled, offering a brief wave as if Diluc’s eyes weren’t trying to burn a hole through him. “I’ll take the Dandelion Wine by the way. But you already knew that’s what I’d say.

“Uh, huh.” Diluc deadpanned. With a calculative gaze, he stared at Venti’s “old pals”. Considering he recently discovered that Venti is the absent and incognito Anemo Archon, he had a feeling of who these two are. He lingered at the sight of heterochromatic eyes, partially intrigued by the rare condition, before moving on.

“Let me guess, Rex Lapis and Ajax?”

Childe gave a friendly wave in greeting, giving a side-eye toward Venti as if asking how Diluc knew so easily. “Uh, I go by Childe nowadays. It’s been a while since I last visited Mondstadt.”

The other gave a slight bow. “I prefer Zhongli as of this time.”

“I see.” Diluc droned out before turning to prepare the drinks. At this point, the revelation isn’t surprising to him. Not after dealing with a dragon, the Abyss Order, and the Anemo Archon. “Anything else or will you all be having the same?”

“Just Dandelion Wine and don’t worry about the number of glasses Venti will drink,” Childe reassured. “And, while I’m here, you might as well tell me how much Mora he owes on his tab. I’ll be able to afford it, no matter how much the total is.”

“Be my guest,” Diluc responded.

Childe nodded as he followed Zhongli and Venti toward an empty table. “By the way, I won’t be drinking tonight. I normally would, but I’m kind of banning myself from alcohol.”

Diluc hummed in acknowledgment as he swiftly prepared the glasses. “With how much that bard drinks, I might as well make an extra.”

Childe couldn’t help but chuckle before turning to smile at Venti. Despite its friendliness, all could tell there was something stern about it. “And Venti…You’ll try and drink responsibly, won’t you?”

Much to Diluc’s amusement, Venti had suddenly carried a nervous aura. “O-Of course.” 

The bard switched his gaze between the stares of Zhongli and Childe. “I wouldn’t go breaking the contract now, hahaha…”

“Contract?” Diluc inquired. 

Childe rested his arms upon the wooden table with a small grin. “Well, you know who we are so there’s no harm in telling. Basically, if Venti is to ever drink when I’m around, he is to tweak his form to look closer to the drinking age.”

Zhongli nodded in thanks as he grasped the given wine glass, lightly swishing the liquid within. “If any one of us is present, Venti is to drink responsibly. I do not mind as much about his young form, but for Childe, it is an uncomfortable sight.”

Childe huffed lightly. “I don’t care how many centuries-old he is and how good his tolerance is. If he looks like a child, my ever-growing maternal side will view him as a child against my will, even though I know fully well he's older than many grandpas. Besides, what if other underaged people saw him drinking gallons of wine without being reprimanded? What kind of example wold that set?” He then shot Venti an unimpressed expression. “It doesn’t help that he acts like a child as well.”

Venti simply sunk further in his seat, hiding his embarrassment behind his wine glass as he took a sip.

By Venti’s second-and-a-half cup, the conversation finally took a more serious turn. Diluc paid little attention to the three gods sitting in his emptied tavern, already knowing the tale. The bard’s voice retold the situation with clarity, Childe and Zhongli listening attentively. By the end of it, Childe leaned back a bit with a sigh. 

“I see…” Childe’s expression softened as he mentally compared what Venti said to the news that had managed to reach Liyue Harbor. “At least you managed to reach Dvalin in time.”

Childe’s eyes then sharpened and Venti had to glance away at the faint glow they emitted. “That Abyss Order sure is getting bolder, aren’t they…”

Zhongli slightly frowned at the mention of the Abyss Order, gazing upon his empty glass. “They have certainly caused trouble before, but to try and weaponize one of the Four Winds... One can only wonder what they hoped to accomplish.”

The tension seemed to bleed away from Childe’s shoulders as he partially slumped over the table. He turned his head toward Venti, curiosity replacing the momentary need for some divine retribution. “Anyway, this traveler you mentioned, are they still in Mondstadt? I’ve heard that they’ve become this place’s Honorary Knight of Favonius.”

Venti nodded with a hum. “Yup, they’re still around. But if you don’t meet them, no need to frown. They’ll find their way to you somehow.”

“Oh?” Zhongli mused.

“Meeting all The Seven is what they seek. As for the Rite of Descension, they’ve been waiting all week.” Venti elaborated. “But the time is not yet right, so they stay here to answer people’s plights.”

“That’s quite the goal,” Childe commented. 

Venti silently agreed as he took another sip of wine. However, when he placed the glass back down, his lighthearted expression had turned into a frown. The atmosphere became strained.

“Venti?” Childe questioned with concern.

The bard lightly placed a hand over his own chest where, normally, a human heart would be located. The action and the Anemo Archon’s expression instantly told Childe and Zhongli what occurred.

Before anyone could blink, Childe had swiftly moved from his seat by Zhongli. Venti felt the other’s arms wrapping around him, a protective and worried aura flaring up from within the God of Youth.

“So, it’s…?”

“Yeah. One of the Harbingers got the drop on me.” Venti admitted. He emitted a huff of humorless laughter. “Heh, I should’ve expected it to be a violent exchange considering we didn’t leave on the best of terms…”

Zhongli briefly closed his eyes in thought. “She’s finally making her move. It looks like there is less time than we thought.”

Childe remained by Venti’s side. “Did the Fatui do anything else? Have you been managing well without it?”

“I’ve been doing well. Though, I do find myself spending more time under the tree for some rest. As for the Fatui, they’ve been laying low to keep things safe with Ordos Favonius. But forget about me,” Venti said before looking at his friends with worry. “Of all the Archons, the biggest concern are you two since, well…”

“We are attempting to negotiate with her.” Zhongli voiced. “However, it will be a challenge since she’ll want both pieces, even if she is unaware of its split state. But we do not know what will happen to Childe should his half be removed.”

Childe glanced down toward his lap, bitting the bottom of his lip. “We haven’t dared to experiment with it. It’s too risky. And, for all we know, removing it could kill me.”

“Then, what have you guys agreed upon so far?” Venti asked.

Zhongli sighed. “A while ago, we managed to settle on a contract with her. I offered to peacefully give her my half within a set amount of time which is coming up very soon. Of course, I worded it as if she’ll be gaining the full set.” His expression turned into something like a grimace. “I will admit that it was mainly to buy us more time to think of something else.” 

Venti took a moment before blinking at the wording. “Morax are you…using a loophole in your own contract!? No, wait—You made a loophole to abuse on purpose!?” 

Zhongli attempted to dismiss the revelation with a polite cough, glancing away from the bard. “Normally, I would not stoop to such lows, but Childe’s wellbeing is at risk and that…that is something I can not afford to take chances with. Even if my loyalties between Childe and my responsibilities are being strained because of it.”

At that, Childe moved over toward Zhongli, draping his arms over the older’s shoulders in a light hug. Zhongli let himself relax, leaning back against Childe’s hold. 

Venti watched the exchange with a faint smile. “So, what do you two plan to do next?”

Zhongli and Childe shared a glance before they shrugged. Venti sweatdropped as Zhongli spoke. “We are not entirely sure. We could possibly create a Geo structure to fake Childe’s half, but that may be exposed for the trick that it is. Another idea is hiding, but that will not work for long. Other than that, we could attempt to combine our halves into one again and give it away in exchange for the safety of our land.”

“There’s a chance I won’t die if it’s removed,” Childe added. “But we can’t be too sure. It’s what saved me from dying, so it just depends on my body being able to sustain itself without relying on it.”

Venti gave a heavy sigh. “Geez, talk about problematic… Anyway, I’m sure you guys will figure something out. You, uh, kinda have to at this point.”

It wasn’t long until the silence continued to linger, the weight of the conversation putting a damper on their meet-up. Venti slowly reached for a third glass of wine, sensing Childe’s calculative gaze. With a fake cough, Venti took a sip before his eyes light up with an idea to lighten the mood. He smiled behind the lip of his glass, gaze lingering on Childe’s abdomen once the God of Youth made the move to sit back down. 

“So, Childe,” Venti spoke up, dragging the letters. His grin became teasing as he spoke up loud and clear in a sing-song tone. “Shall I sing a song for your pregnancy’s a week along?”

From behind the bar, a polished glass slipped from Diluc’s fingers with a pitched crash. At the same time, there was a bang against the table as Childe practically collapsed into his seat from shock. Next to him, Zhongli had turned his head away to stare at a nearby wall, his face tinged pink. 

Venti, the little gremlin, cackled as he brought his wine toward his lips. Childe did his best to distract himself from the sudden question by scolding Venti about choking hazards. 

“Were you dragons “intertwined” or human lovers in the night?”

“ Venti !”

Fields of grass glowed under the sun, stone pathways absorbing the natural heat. The skies remained a light blue without a single cloud lingering. Within a developing town, mortals had gathered outside their homes in awe. The gentle trickle of a fountain remained unheard, the wind carrying the plucked strings of a lyre and a soft voice. The music brought a sense of peace, the sweet vocals never disrupting the flow of the tune. The mortals knew the identity of the music’s source, but none could visibly find them. 

Thousands of years ago, Lord Barbatos would join in song with Ajax for they were known to get along. Barbatos would use Anemo to bring his music far and wide across the land, carrying his friend’s voice along with it. None would miss the chance to listen to such a duet between gods.

Somewhere upon a tall cliff, a pair of figures stood. Before them laid the land of Mondstadt, thriving with life instead of its former state of an endless winter. Barbatos lightly hovered, wings gently shifting as he kept his eyes closed. His fingers felt the strings of his lyre, every note and touch coming naturally to him. Lightly swinging his legs over the cliff’s edge was Ajax, eyes open yet distant as he absorbed himself within the calming melody. The pair took their precious time, no need to rush. It was this very sense of ease that aided in the freeing sensation their music brought. But, like anything else, it must come to an eventual end.

The air gradually fell into a natural silence once more, leaves rustling and birds chirping with calls. Barbatos allowed himself to properly sit down by Ajax, the pair gazing upon the grand view of the region. It was fascinating to think that this vast land was once uninhabitable. 

“I will soon depart.” Barbatos had spoken. 

Ajax had glanced at the younger. “You will leave your people to their own devices?”

“I do not wish to rule. Having dominion over those who fought to be free is not what I desire.” Barbatos had explained, the eyes of his human form glinting with sorrow. “I do not want to repeat history nor do I want them to feel tied to me simply because I am their god.” 

Ajax had nodded silently. “I see. Where do you plan to go?”

“To rest, I think.” Barbatos had voiced, staring as a flock of birds passed in the distance. “Perhaps when I awaken, the times will have changed even more for the better. It makes me wonder what kind of world this place will become.”

Ajax had hummed along with interest and Barbatos turned to face his fellow god. He could sense the other’s saddening mood. 

“Ajax—“

“I will miss you, little whisp.” Ajax had interrupted, deciding to not keep his feelings quiet. “A nap may very well be centuries-long for us. The value of time is different among immortals such as us.”

Barbatos had offered a soft and understanding smile. “We will meet again — I am sure of that. When I return, let us play a song in celebration. But for now, it is not the time.” He turned to look at the distant sight of the developing new Mondstadt. “I still have people to guide and life to spring. We still have time, even if it is little.”

Ajax’s expression had somewhat lightened in response. “Then, we shall make the most of it. When the time comes, please allow me to see you off.”

“Of course.”

The ages passed within a blur, Barbatos falling into a long slumber. He had awoken, but his Mondstadt had been corrupted by a tyrant: the aristocracy. And yet, even long after Mondstadt was freed once more, mortals had forgotten the song Barbatos and Ajax would sing at least once or twice a year.

But too much time had passed and all have forgotten what that blessed tune was. Barbatos and Ajax would still join in song, hidden in plain sight as mortals, but one would only chalk it up to being a made-up melody and nothing more. 

And that was alright. Barbatos and Ajax did not mind because they would always remember what it means to them. And that is enough.

“Aw, come on, Venti! Isn’t this little fella cute? It’s a shame this guy’s a stray.”

The people of Mondstadt could only look over with bewilderment as a young man chased down a familiar bard. The pair ran around the streets, Venti turning a corner and using Anemo to glide himself somewhere out of Childe’s reach. The sun shined brightly upon the color of the building’s roof.

“Ack —I get it! I’m sorry for teasing you! Please have mercy!” Venti squeaked out, rubbing his nose with his sleeve as he sniffled. 

From the ground, Childe grinned mischievously, a stray cat resting in his arms. He carefully held to cat up toward the other. “Oh, I forgive you for that. But don’t think I didn’t notice you sneak that extra glass of wine!”

“I-I have no clue what you speak of!”

Childe’s mismatched eyes glinted with a barely noticeable glow. Venti shivered at the sight, dread growing. “Oh, but Venti, you broke your contract and your pinky promise to me. From where I’m from, you must suffer the consequences!”

“You aren’t going to—“

Venti paled, cutting himself off as Childe easily created simple Hydro stairs. Venti did not waste time, swiftly turning tail to run across the slopes of the rooftops. 

“Venti!~” Childe chuckled. “You must suffer the “Wrath of the Rock”!”

“Oh, come one my dear friend.” Venti chuckled nervously as he leaped. “C-Can’t we discuss this peacefully?”

There was silence and Venti raised a brow with confusion. He dared to pause and turn around, eyes unable to spot Childe. He was just about to continue his escape, just in case, only to get a face full of cat. 

“ Ah!” He backed up within an instant, using Anemo to keep himself from rolling off the building. His face scrunched up before emitting a sneeze.

Childe’s expression was overly cheerful as he spoke. “Talk it out? Hm…Nope. Now, suffer .”

Mondstadt echoed with a young bard’s screeched apologies and a young man chasing after the bard with a cat. It was certainly a sight to behold. 

Somewhere by an antique store, Zhongli perked up at the familiar sounds of Childe and Venti. He glanced down, recognizable shadows swiftly speeding over him as he chose to look up. The tail of his coat fluttered as Venti activated Anemo to make it to the other building, Childe’s Hydro platforms minorly dripping water to the ground below before vanishing. Zhongli stared even after they left his sight, their voices echoing throughout the city. He could only sweatdrop with a sigh. At least Childe was using Hydro to not strain himself too much. However, it made a part of him worry if their newest addition will be just as hyper.

“Well now, you seem rather familiar with them.”

Zhongli turned toward the owner of the voice, meeting a young man with an eye patch and long hair draped over one shoulder. Just by appearance and aura alone, Zhongli could tell this was likely a member of Ordos Favonius. 

“Yes and I do hope they are not causing too much trouble.”

The other chuckled. “It’s better than what I was expecting to deal with when I was told of a disturbance. Anyway, I better be on my way. Welcome to Mondstadt.”

Zhongli nodded as a silent farewell, the other departing with a brief wave of a hand.

“How do you do it?” Barbatos had asked one day, a half-eaten apple resting in hand. Ajax had finished pouring them all tea while Morax sat at a desk further away to work on his contracts. 

Ajax had hummed with confusion as he placed the pot down. “What do you mean?”

Barbatos paused thoughtfully as he tried to form his words. “As a god, I do care for my city and my people. However, I do not go to the extent that you do where you attach yourself more personally. It hurts…doesn’t it?”

From where he sat, Morax had tensed as if prepared to intervene. While he did not fully understand the subject completely, he was aware that it could be a sensitive matter for Ajax to speak of. Barbatos could practically sense Morax’s change in aura, the Anemo Archon gulping. 

Ajax had managed to make eye contact with Morax, the pair sharing a silent message before the atmosphere calmed down. 

“It is torturous.” Ajax had responded without hesitance and Barbatos had gone still at the power behind Ajax’s words.

“However,” Ajax had continued, starring at the details engraved on the warm teapot. “There is something that makes it even the tiniest bit worth it.”

“I see…” Barbatos hummed quietly. 

Ajax had smiled sadly. “Your friend passed for the dream he sought for and it brings you great pain. Yet, you have found something while knowing him that made it worth it, even if it was forever fated to be temporary.”

At that Barbatos couldn’t refute Ajax’s words. “I understand. I am simply worried about you. We may be gods, but that does not mean we are infallible to things even mortals struggle with.”

Barbatos’ eyes had glowed faintly under the golden rays of sunlight, his expression full of compassion. “You have a lovely heart, my friend and sometimes I think it would be nice if others had even a fragment of what you have. I just want you to be careful.”

“I can only try.” Ajax had responded with a soft chuckle. “I can only try… But thank you.”

Morax had sighed softly at the conversation, partially listening even as it turned toward something more light-hearted. Ah, the frustration it had brought him to not fully comprehend the matter. Yet, at the same time, a part of him still didn’t want to care or learn.

An hour later, Childe was finally satisfied with the hunt while Venti kept his distance. God of Youth or not, Childe could be a devil if he wanted to. But just when Venti thought the torment was finally over, it continued in the form of lunch.

“I-Isn’t this a bit much?” Venti chuckled nervously, glancing at the pleased expression of Childe and Zhongli. 

Zhongli had ordered from Good Hunter ahead of time and now, Venti could only stare at the meal the god went out of his way to get for him. The Anemo Archon did his best to not grimace at the sight and smell of the melted cheese pancake.

“Hehe…Come on, we’re all friends, right? And I’m already sorry, so can’t we just…let this slide?”

He sunk in his seat at the deadpan expressions Childe and Zhongli aimed at him.

“In a contract, one can not simply let things “slide”.”

“If you make a pinky promise, you’re supposed to keep it.”

Venti could only sigh with defeat. “I’m pretty sure this is considered cruel and unusual punishme—”

“Venti!” A pair of voices called from the distance. The trio of Archons turned to face the new arrivals, Childe and Zhongli raising a brow at the one who was floating within the air. 

Despite the situation he is in, Venti managed to give genuine smile. “Ah, Traveler, Paimon. Good afternoon.”

“We didn’t expect to see you here and,” The floating being’s eyes caught sight of the food. “Eh?! Tone-Deaf Bard is having a meal without us?!”

The blonde teen sharply turned toward their companion with disapproval. “Paimon, that’s rude to—“

Childe couldn’t help the snort that escaped him, accidentally calling attention to him.“Tone-Deaf Bard?”

Venti faintly blushed with embarrassment. “Ah, yes, about that, um…” He cleared his throat with a fake cough in an attempt to compose himself. He could sense Zhongli’s silent amusement from across the table. “A-Anyway, this is the Traveler I was talking about.”

“Oh?” Childe mused with interest, arms propped on the table as he leaned toward the blonde. “So, this is the Honorary Knight who helped out with the dragon fiasco?”

The Traveler stared with curiosity at Childe’s heterochromia before glancing away. They didn’t want to be rude. “Yeah, that’s me. It’s nice to meet you.” Thet then gestured toward Paimon. “This is my emergency food, Paimon.”

Paimon squeaked indignantly. “Hey!” 

Childe laughed softly, already growing a tad fond of this Honorary Knight. “Ah, I see. Nice to meet you both, I’m Childe.” 

However, he internally frowned as he examined the Traveler’s youthful appearance. “These adventurers really are becoming younger and younger these days… And to think they helped fight Dvalin and are getting involved with the Abyss Order and Fatui...”

“I am Zhongli,” Zhongli introduced politely. “Childe and hail from Liyue Harbor.”

“Liyue Harbor?” The Traveler voiced with faint wonder. Well, that explains the pair’s odd clothing. “I plan to head there soon for the Rite of Descension Venti told me about.”

“Oh, oh, since you’re both from Liyue, can you tell us more about the Rite of Descension?!” Paimon questioned with excitement. “Also, is it true that the official day of the Rite was decided on by the locals because it’s the day Rex Lapis and Ajax descended for marriage?!"

“It is indeed true,” Zhongli confirmed. “They say it took place once Liyue Harbor was about a thousand years old since its founding. Others argue it was closer to the two-thousandth year. Rex Lapis and Ajax had descended, requesting their people to arrange a marriage for them under mortal traditions. However, some historians believe this to be false.”

Paimon filtered her head with confusion. “Huh? How come?” 

“Well, it’s because who would believe that two powerful and divine beings would want something as bland as a normal human marriage?” Childe added with an amused grin. “There are people who believe the two had some special marriage designed only for them. After all, it’s not everyday gods get hitched, hahaha.”

Meanwhile, the Traveler glanced at Venti’s meal with a raised brow. “Venti, I thought you didn’t like this kind of stuff?”

At the mention of his food, Venti’s aura deflated. “Please don’t remind me…” He muttered.

There was a short exchange of words before the Traveler and Paimon had to depart, daily commissions being the next on their list of things to do. Once they left, Venti returned to being at the mercy of Liyue’s gods. 

Oh, dear.

When Morax and Ajax had first heard of the Anemo Archon’s arrival in Liyue, there was a cause for alarm. Considering the times and what they had heard, they could only assume that Barbatos came to them for aid. However, it turned out that their worries were for naught. With a gust of wind, Barbatos in all his glory appeared before them. His eyes were bright, highlights of his hair glowing like mystical flames. He had tossed something and Morax instinctively caught it with ease. Ajax leaned closer and both were bewildered by the sight of a wine bottle.

“Here’s some wine from Mondstadt. Care for a taste?” Barbatos had greeted with. 

There was a moment of stunned silence before it was shattered by Ajax’s cheerful laughter. 

“Hahaha, well now, this is a surprise!” Ajax had managed to say. “Morax, do you think we can keep him?”

“Absolutely not.”

“Aw, but I like him.”

“Well, I don’t.”

Unfortunately, Barbatos had managed to test Morax’s patience with his endless questions which Ajax did his best to answer. 

In the end, Morax and Ajax could only observe as Barbatos was, ironically, swept away. The young god was launched into the distance, form getting smaller the further he went. Ajax could only sweatdrop at the sight. 

“I’ll go get him.”

Morax huffed. “Leave him.”

Chapter Text

The field of glaze lilies swayed in the gentle breeze, quietly soaking in the soft laughter echoing within the air. Leaning over a stone by the still water, Ajax had chuckled at his reflection. His eyes of noctilucous jade seemed to become one with the blue of the water.

“Do you like it?” Guizhong had questioned with a smile, observing Ajax’s newly acquired braid. The ginger curls rested over his shoulder, practically meeting his knees with the length. 

“It’s really nice! Um,” Ajax had then turned sheepish, hesitating before finally voicing his thoughts. “Do you think you could teach me?”

“Of course! I’d be happy to!” Guizhong had replied with excitement. Her gaze had then wandered over toward the side, waving her hand as a silent invitation. “Morax, would you care to join us?”

Morax’s expression had remained indifferent as he spoke. “I have no interest in the act of “braiding”.” 

“Aw, that’s alright. But your hair is long enough for a braid. It’ll give Ajax more practice material.”

Morax gave a silent sigh, those bright eyes of his staring at Ajax and Guizhong with zero amusement. “I am not interested.”

Ajax hummed in thought, wondering what could convince this stone-faced god. He’d only been with Guizhong and Morax for a month and it has somewhat surprised him how expressionless Morax is. It was no wonder Guizhong had expressed troubles when it came to teaching this man about humanity.

“If you let us braid your hair…it’ll help keep it out of the way.” Ajax had tried to reason, slightly tensing once Morax’s sharp gaze locked onto him. “So, it’ll help teach me and it’ll be convenient for you.”

Morax had paused and Guizhong internally hoped the reasoning would work. Instead, Morax had shaken his head in refusal. “You bring a good point. However, would it not be simpler to cut my hair if it is in the way?”

Guizhong and Ajax had tilted their heads, not quite processing what that was supposed to mean. And then, in one swift motion, Morax had summoned his spear and cleanly sliced his long hair short. It left the pair of gods to stare with wide-eyed expressions. 

Morax had looked up, confused as to why Guizhong and Ajax were staring at him with such stunned faces. “Hm? Did I do something wrong?”

The God of Dust and God of Youth shared a glance before the two seemed to deflate with disappointment. 

“Oh, well. At least you tried.” Guizhong had said to Ajax. 

Ajax’s sad frown held a childish pout to it. “Long hair looked so nice on him too… And the people are going to be carving a statue of him today….”

Morax could only switch his gaze between them, not quite understanding the problem. Instead, he simply departed to continue his duties. He truly had no clue what to think of these two gods who had managed to drop into his life. It was already baffling with one of them and now there are two.

The door opened, footsteps making their way into the cozy home. Zhongli turned around with a gentle smile, catching sight of familiar ginger locks. He placed the boiling kettle down so he could properly face Childe. Before he could get a word in an opened envelope blocked his vision. Once he took the item, he brought it down and noticed Childe’s expression. Zhongli’s brows furrowed with confusion and worry. 

“Childe?”

Childe sighed, obviously stressed as his mismatched eyes glared at the letter in Zhongli’s grasp. “It’s from the Tsaritsa.”

The atmosphere turned heavy as Childe went to sit down with an exhausted huff. Zhongli swiftly unfolded the letter, eyes skimming through the contents. The silence was suffocating even after Zhongli finished reading, leaning his back against the side of the counter. 

Neither of them knew what to do or how to proceed. They were truly stumped despite expecting this outcome.

“We make Mora and contracts, yet we’re in fucking debt with the Tsaritsa.” Childe humorlessly bit out with a broken laugh. “We can’t even pay our way out of this…”

“If we attempt to deceive her with a fake Gnosis, diplomacy will be pointless. The same would go for ignoring her.” Zhongli muttered to himself with a troubled expression. “However, if we give her what she desires, that means reuniting our Gnosis into one — something that could harm you and our child….” 

Childe’s gaze wandered toward a nearby window, taking in the lovely view of Liyue. It caused a part of his chest to ache with sorrow and nostalgia. Ah, how this place has grown over the years... To think it used to be such a small place. 

And now, it may be in danger because this land’s gods are stumped and unable to make a choice.

What should they do? What can they do? Have they continued for this long only to be stopped here?

“We’re screwed,” Childe spoke simply. “At this rate, we might as well let her do her worst to us and come out of it alive.”

Zhongli walked forth, pulling out a chair to sit beside Childe. “While that option could be our best bet, it is still too risky. Unlike the other nations, I have you by my side. You may not be officially recognized as the Geo Archon, but none are blind to your strength. I’d also prefer to not have the common folk suffer should she send for an attack against us. A conflict between gods is not a pretty sight.”

“Besides,” Zhongli spoke tenderly, bringing a gloved hand to lightly rest upon Childe’s abdomen. “In this state, I can not permit you to fight.”

Childe leaned against Zhongli as he exhaled some of the tension away. “I know, I know. But what else can we do but wait and see? And to try and see what happens if my side of the Gnosis is removed… Uh, I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to go, like, dying in our kitchen.”

Zhongli gently wrapped an arm around Childe, his grip secure and his gaze narrowed protectively. “In that case, I’ll defend you and our land till the end. I wouldn’t be much of an Archon if I lived this long only to fail now.”

Childe lightly pinched the other’s cheek. “You better not overdo it. If you need me to help in any way, I will. Don’t you dare start burdening yourself with too many things.”

Zhongli smiled, resting his chin on top of Childe’s head. He brought the younger god close with a gentle chuckle. “I’ll try to not worry you too much.”

“I would like it if you could make me not worry at all!”

The stretch of empty land filled with a holler and a sudden bang. From a distance, a large stone fractured before shattering like glass. The rock shimmered under the sun’s rays as water seeped into it. A pair of gods had cheered with success while the third simply created another target made of stone. Guizhong examined the Hydro construct of her Guizhong Ballista with awe. Ajax observed her, partially hiding his face within his long sleeves. 

“Fascinating!” Guizhong had exclaimed. “The power output functions much like the real thing as well! And—Oh, can you create multiple and fire them at the same time!?”

Before Ajax could respond, Guizhong was already turning toward Morax with a bright smile. “Morax, create more targets and try and spread them out too!”

All the god did was nod and comply with the request in silence. There was no arguing with Guizhong once she gets like this. And so, the empty land, more like a testing field, partially filled with Geo pillars.

Ajax stared at the targets with nervousness. “I…Isn’t this a bit much? I mean, I’m not as strong as you or Morax, so—”

“With that attitude, you aren’t.” Guizhong interrupted with an encouraging grin. “Even if you can’t, that’s the whole point of this, right? We’re helping you figure out what you can do.”

She then glanced over to Morax. Her eyes glinted with warning, a silent message for Morax to think carefully about what to say in response. “What do you think, Morax?”

Morax had paused in thought, his expression giving nothing away. Ajax swore he could hear an anxious heartbeat within his ears at the wait.

“Despite being a minor god,” Morax had slowly begun with. “His abilities over Hydro have…gone past expectations. Even if he can not handle this task, I do believe he has made quite a lot of progress overall.”

Guizhong had nodded with approval before giving Ajax an encouraging pat on the back. Ajax had squeaked with surprise at the contact which caused her to laugh. “Well, that’s the closest thing to “encouragement” that Morax can give. So, go on, try!”

Ajax could only give a nod as he held his hands out. A nearby source of water rose, the floating streams glistening under the light as they took form. The God of Youth clenched his teeth as he struggled to create another Hydro Guizhong Ballista while maintaining the first one he made. As soon as he had managed to make the second take the basic shape of the ballista, the body of water wavered and Ajax had to let it go with reluctance. The air echoed with the splatter of water as he sat down, head pounding with an ache. It was the first time since awakening that he attempted to use his abilities to such an extent, so the result was of no surprise. 

Guizhong hurried over with concern. Meanwhile, Morax observed Ajax’s condition from where he stood, not seeing a point for him to wander close like Guizhong. It’s not like he could help. And so, Morax had deemed it a pointless action.

“Are you alright?” Guizhong had questioned. 

“Y-Yeah…I think it was just, uh, too much.” Ajax had responded, massaging his forehead to try and alleviate the pain. 

“I still think that was pretty impressive.” Guizhong had commented. “Between memorizing my blueprints and creating a functional one, that wasn’t too bad. Maybe all you need is some practice.”

“I guess.” Ajax had shrugged. 

“…How about we take a break? I remember the mortals teaching me of a tea that may help.”

“Sounds good to me.” Ajax agreed before looking over toward his lone creation that had managed to remain intact. “L-Let me just get rid of thi—“ 

Apparently, trying to use godly powers with a headache was not a smart idea. As the Hydro ballista collapsed into a puddle, it fired one last shot in a random direction. Ajax and Guizhong both ducked with surprised yelps as a jet of Hydro shot over them. From some feet away, something metallic had snapped before landing with a loud clang. 

Ajax and Guizhong cautiously turned to look, only to pause. 

Within Morax’s grasp was his polearm, except the head of it was cleanly shot off and embedded in a cliff some distance away. Water dripped down the broken weapon onto Morax’s stunned grip. 

For Ajax, it was the first time he’d seen such an expression on the stoic god’s face. But it was difficult to say that it was a positive thing considering he just broke the god’s signature weapon.

“Ah, so is this a declaration of war? Very well then, shall we form a contract?”

Guizhong sweatdropped. “Morax. No. It was an accident.”

“Ah, I-I’m sorry! I can fix it! I p-promise!” Ajax had squeaked out, hiding behind Guizhong with fear in his eyes. 

A gentle chime rang within their ears, the element of Geo being bestowed upon the Traveler. They flexed their fingers, taking a moment to adjust to the new flow of power much like with the Anemo Archon’s statue. They had yet to truly understand why they are resonating with the statues like this. But for now, any offered strength is welcome. Perhaps, with more power, they could find their missing sibling more efficiently. 

The Traveler glanced up, golden eyes absorbing the unique sight of the Geo Archon’s statue. 

Unlike the Anemo Archon’s, there was a throne presumably meant to be made of Geo. However, the seat was wide enough for two figures to sit. From the front view, there was a cloaked figure on the left holding a cube in his grasp. To this man’s left was another figure wearing robes that seemed to flow like water over the arm of the throne. This figure had long hair with curls and in their hand was a geometrically cut drop of water. It was like a gemstone in a way, the “rounded” parts made from multiple flat surfaces and edges. 

Perhaps it was to represent Geo despite there being a representation of Hydro?

Either way, this Archon statue was certainly unlike any other. Paimon made sure to confirm that when asked.

“As far as Paimon knows, only Liyue has a statue like this. It makes sense since there are two gods actively watching over this place.” Paimon explained. 

The Traveler’s brows furrowed in thought. “…Didn’t Childe and…Zhongli say these two gods got married?”

“Oh, that’s right!” Paimon exclaimed with realization. “And maybe these statues are like this because of that.”

“Huh?”

“Well,” Paimon muttered with concentration. “People say that the Geo Archon statue used to be of the Geo Archon alone. But maybe once Ajax got more recognition, especially with the whole marriage thing, Liyue thought to add Ajax to it? Paimon’s not really sure though…”

Her eyes lit up with an idea as she spoke. “But hey, we’re going to Liyue Harbor so maybe we can find Childe and Zhongli. They seemed pretty knowledgeable, so maybe they’ll know!”

“I guess,” The Traveler pondered quietly. “Yet, they didn’t really look like historians. Well…maybe Zhongli. We never really asked, did we?”

“Well, it’s better late than never. Now, let’s hurry up and find a place to stay until the Rite of Descension! Also, you have got to try Liyue’s cuisine!”

Golden eyes observed as Paimon floated ahead with enthusiasm. The Traveler could only sigh with exasperation toward their companion’s antics. “Okay, okay. I’ll prepare my wallet…”

With that, they picked up the pace, hurrying to catch up with Paimon before she could wander too far. 

Blue eyes shined with awe, a hand reaching out without thought. But before his hand could make contact with the glowing artifact, Morax had swiftly intervened. The silence within the Realm of Clouds was disrupted by a soft smack of the hand. Ajax had snapped out of his daze with a sheepish apology. 

“I would not recommend handling any of her collectibles. Most of these contain negative energies and potential curses.” Morax had warned. 

Guizhong had wandered over with a smile, gently guiding Ajax to a safer distance from the pulsing artifacts. “He is not wrong. There is a reason why the Adepti helped create this place as storage.”

Ajax had frowned with concern. “But, you research this stuff all the time, right? Doesn’t that mean it’s dangerous for you too?”

Morax had glanced at the God of Dust with faint annoyance. “I have mentioned the same thing and yet she continues to tinker with various artifacts even if they are dangerous.”

“Ah, but they are fascinating, are they not?” Guizhong had spoken, her gentle expression attempting to ease her fellow gods. “Besides, I have managed to handle them with care and caution. There is no need to fear.”

“It is still foolish and pointless,” Morax stated with defeat, knowing that there would be no convincing her. 

Ajax hummed as he took in the beauty of the domain. “Still…this place is really pretty. And, uh, if I can help with anything, I’d like to.”

“Of course, you can help. I won’t let you do anything too dangerous, but I wouldn’t mind.” Guizhong had replied with cheer. “I just have to consult Cloud Retainer. She could be a bit… irritable.”

Ajax had gained an odd expression as he thought about his encounters with Cloud Retainer. Ah, that crane certainly was full of too much pride for such a fragile body. 

He was snapped out of his anxiety as Guizhong’s giggles filled the air. “Now, what’s with that face. Sure she can be a little much at times, but she won’t bite.”

“But she can peck.” Ajax had muttered and Guizhong was unable to deny that statement. 

Paimon and the Traveler wandered Liyue Harbor in awe, the architectural and cultural differences obvious compared to Mondstadt. Of course, since it was their first time traveling here, they made sure to interrogate some locals. Especially about the Rite of Descension. 

Apparently, they made it a bit early. The Rite would not be occurring until the day after tomorrow. According to Paimon, it was perfect as it would allow them some time to adjust. However, the Traveler did have to hide their irritation toward certain people they had questioned. So what if Mondstadt was technically godless? While Venti could be odd at times, he was not necessarily a bad god. At least, not in the Traveler’s eyes. 

Being a god must be hard and the Traveler got a glimpse of that when they helped Venti with the whole imaginary friend business. 

But still, they couldn’t afford to get aggressive toward a local about the Anemo Archon’s lack of presence. Considering how different Mondstadt is, it was of no surprise there would be people who scorn the lack of godly rule. And since Liyue has two gods ruling… The Traveler can only imagine the level of pride Liyueans must have.

“The Rite of Descension? Why it’s an event that occurs once a year where Rex Lapis and Ajax grace us with their presence and divine wisdom. One would be a fool to not attend.”

“When Rex Lapis appears, he gives divine predictions which help decide how Liyue should be run for the year. Ajax imparts a different kind of wisdom to those who are young. No parent would want their child to miss out on such a chance.”

“You don’t know who Ajax is? Why he’s the God of Youth and I hope I don’t need to explain what that means. However, some historians believe he used to be the God of Mercy. Since he’s a known survivor of the Archon War, some even believe that Ajax was the God of Slaughter. Oh, but, uh…we don’t talk about that.”

“Hm, you’ll be attending the Rite? Let’s see…you seem pretty young. If you attend the Rite, perhaps you’ll receive Ajax’s blessing and wisdom.” 

“How long have we had two gods? That’s difficult to say. People believe that Morax and Ajax have been allies even before the Archon War. However, we know for certain that they founded Liyue Harbor together.”

“The official day of the Rite of Descension is believed to have been the day Morax and Ajax wedded. But the details of such an occasion have been lost. Ah, it’s a shame. You’d think people would keep such an important event close to the heart. Either way, some superstitious people believe the day of the Rite can increase their chances for romance. I don’t really believe it myself…”

“I can’t say I entirely believe the whole “married gods” thing. Why would gods need to marry? But, hey, I won’t question it too much. It is surprising though…Rex Lapis is the oldest among The Seven and Ajax is thousands of years younger. One can only wonder what brought them together…”

“Ajax…God of Slaughter…? Goodness no! Where did you hear such a thing? Are you sure you are not confused with Rex Lapis? Due to his involvement during the Archon War, he did gain the title of God of War. However, it’s not in the same sense as the Pyro Archon. Regardless, our god’s strength is nothing to scoff at.”

Everywhere the Traveler went, they heard various facts and opinions regarding Liyue’s gods. It was both confusing and insightful. But they had to take some of the information with a grain of salt. One can not blindly believe everything they hear, after all. 

Paimon suddenly glanced up and before the Traveler could question the action, she swiftly floated in a certain direction. Blonde locks whipped around as the Traveler hurried to catch up.

“P-Paimon, hey, wait!”

Paimon came to stop, turning to face her companion only to watch with wide eyes. “Ah, watch out! You’re gonna run into—!”

The Traveler heeded the warning too late as they stumbled directly into someone. There was a startled grunt as the Traveler accidentally dragged the person to the ground. From where she hovered, Paimon winced. “That… looked like it hurt.”

The Traveler slowly lifted themselves, moving their messy hair from their face. They froze once a familiar voice reached their ears.

“Aren’t you the traveler from Mondstadt…?”

Golden eyes widened and they scrambled to get off the older man. “I’m so sorry about that, Zhongli!”

“It is fine.” He reassured, standing up with ease and lightly dusting his coat. “And, well…Welcome to Liyue I suppose?”

The Traveler could only hide their embarrassment with their hands. 

Paimon emitted a nervous chuckle. “Uh, thanks! And this reunion really didn’t go how we thought it would.”

“I certainly do not recommend running through Liyue Harbor with such speed,” Zhongli advised with furrowed brows. “I do not topple over so easily and it would be unfortunate if someone else were to suffer a similar fate.”

“O-Of course. Got it.” The Traveler muttered sheepishly. 

T he still waters glistened, the air wafting with the scent of fresh dishes. By a table, a certain young god stared at the utensil in his hands with a dumbfounded expression. Beside him, Guizhong watched with amusement. 

Ajax could only sigh with frustration, tapping the two thin sticks with impatience. “Alright, what are these?”

“They’re called chopsticks.” Guizhong had answered. “You’re supposed to hold them together in one hand.”

Ajax had frowned, not understanding. “Uh…how do you do that?”

From where she sat, Cloud Retainer could only stare judgmentally at Ajax. She turned to face Guizhong with bewilderment, her feathers fluffing up with offense. “He does not know how to eat?”

“I know how to eat!” Ajax had exclaimed with a blush. “I just…don’t know how to use these stupid things.”

Morax had simply sipped his tea, not at all bothered by the conversation. However, he had glanced at Ajax with a raised brow. “If you do not understand, then learn. It is as simple as that.”

Guizhong had given Morax and Cloud Retainer a sharp glance. “Now, go easy on him. This is likely his first proper meal since he woke.” Gaining no further complaints, she turned toward Ajax with a gentle smile. “Here, I’ll teach you.”

In the end, Ajax had slumped his upper body against the table with pure defeat. The chopsticks remained abandoned on the table while Guizhong sympathetically rubbed his back. 

“I’m gonna starve to death…”

Morax had huffed at the ridiculous notion. “You will not starve to death. You are a god.”

Cloud Retainer had felt an eye twitch, her patience running out. “Is he done yet? I have grown tired of his presence.”

“Don’t be so rude.” Guizhong scolded with a sigh. “He’s trying his best.” 

“Hmph! The only reason I have allowed his presence is due to your insistence.”

Meanwhile, Ajax could only hide in his seat as best he could. The embarrassment and poor impressions he was leaving made him feel ashamed. And to think it’s all because he couldn’t use chopsticks — something he’s never even heard of until now.

The sun-lit land was filled with giggles and laughter. Morax had frowned, observing Guizhong and Ajax with confusion. What was so funny? Did he do it wrong?

“Was that not correct?” He had questioned.

Guizhong failed to muffle her amusement. “Morax, that is not how one smiles. You’ll scare people that way.”

“But wouldn’t that help with intimidation?”

Ajax covered his face with his hands, leaning against Guizhong due to his laughter. “Th-That’s not the point, hahaha! It looked s-so awkward!”

“Morax,” Guizhong had spoken with a bright grin. “Smiles are supposed to make one feel happy and at ease. They’re not supposed to be used to scare or make one uncomfortable.”

Morax’s brows had furrowed in thought. “Then, shall I try again?”

The mere thought of observing another one of Morax’s attempts at smiling made the duo burst into another fit of giggles. Morax simply felt that he was missing something as he listened. 

“J-Just give us,” Ajax had slightly wheezed. “Give us a moment before you do!”

Guizhong had simply nodded in agreement. The humorous aspect of the conversation was completely lost to Morax.

The cold eyes of the Tsaritsa did not part from an old letter within her grasp. She scanned the words with indifference before her voice rang within the Zapolyarny Palace. The Fatui soldiers further corrected their posture in response to her call.

“La Signora…bring her to me.” The Tsaritsa then paused with consideration before continuing. “Bring Scaramouche as well…”

Her loyal soldiers did not question her nor refuse her command. Meanwhile, the Tsaritsa could only ponder.

“Morax…to think that you are going silent on your end of our contract. How unlike you. One can only wonder if Ajax is a negative influence on you.” She mused. “Regardless, I hope you understand by now that diplomacy is no longer an option.” 

“A contract is proof of one’s deception and should a contract be broken, one must be punished. Are you not the one who taught that?”

Chapter Text

Twinkling eyes glanced around, Paimon searching for a certain someone. She hovered by the traveler’s side, both of them being invited for lunch by Zhongli. The afternoon was pleasantly warm, various food scents making Paimon’s mouth water if she focused. 

“So, where’s Childe?” Paimon finally voiced to Zhongli. “I mean, I figured you guys seem like the type to stick together, you know?”

“He is busy as of now,” Zhongli answered as he sipped his steaming drink. His bright eyes then lingered on the traveling pair. “How are you enjoying Liyue’s cuisine?”

The Traveler took a moment to reply, cooling the stinging spiciness with cool water. “It’s…different than Mondstadt’s, that’s for sure.”

Paimon hummed, resting a hand under her chin. “What’s Childe so busy with?”

Zhongli didn’t miss a beat. “Resting.”

Paimon gave a deadpan expression. “Childe is busy…resting? Um, that’s not what I’d call “busy”.” She then lightly shook her head, minor concern sparking within her. 

Before she could voice her question, her companion did it for her. The Traveler had met Zhongli’s gaze with some concern of their own. “Is he okay? You made it sound like it’s…kinda bad?”

“Childe is fine. I apologize if I made it sound worse than it truly is.” Zhongli reassured. “There has simply been a…lot of stress recently and it was about time he took a much-needed break.”

A part of the Traveler couldn’t help but think of some of their connections and friends within Mondstadt. What was it with people overworking themselves and needing to be forced to take a break? Then again, they aren’t too different with the lofty goal of meeting The Seven. But at least they know how to take some time off. Well…if one doesn’t count the numerous commissions and errands. That’s beside the point.

The Traveler sighed before their eyes lit up with remembrance. “Oh, if you don’t mind, we were hoping you could answer some questions for us about Liyue?”

“You wish to familiarize yourself,” Zhongli stated with a nod of approval. “That is fine. Ask away. I will answer what I can.”

That had led to a lengthy game of questions and answers. From the creation of the Archon Statue to the Liyue gods and their roles, the wealth of information was dizzying.

“Ajax was added to the Archon Statue many years after Liyue Harbor’s founding. It was likely sometime after the Archon War came to an official end.”

“The Rite of Descension is noted to be the day that Rex Lapis and Ajax requested a marriage via mortal traditions. Many believe this to be true, but there is also a minority that does not believe in this.”

“Ajax is one of the few who had remained by Morax’s side and is one of the few survivors of the Archon War.”

“Morax is the Archon who reigns over the element of Geo. Ajax holds control over Hydro, but there is already the Hydro Archon. Due to this and Ajax’s abilities as a minor god, he is not recognized as an Archon.”

“When attending the Rite of Descension, people often give offerings in advance. Items that tie to Rex Lapis, such as cor lapis, are offerings to him. Star conches are the common offering to Ajax, but noctilucous jade and other items work as well.”

“There are several interpretations of the…nature of Rex Lapis and Ajax’s relationship. Many believe it to be a camaraderie, some believe it to be a close servitude, others believe it is more like slavery — a sort of deal in exchange for safety which resulted in Ajax’s survival. But who are we to question the personal relationships of gods?”

With every detail came another difference compared to Mondstadt’s way of living. However, the Traveler couldn’t help but continue to wonder about this nation under the eyes of two gods. 

“Liyue must be proud to have two gods versus one.” They found themselves saying aloud. 

Zhongli emitted a soft sigh. “Indeed… However, it is a natural response considering the weight and value such a thing carries. How could people not be proud?”

The blonde traveler went silent as they pondered over something that has bothered them. With hesitance, they spoke. “Zhongli, do you mind answering something for me? Um…It might sound offensive?”

Zhongli’s expression remained unchanged. “Ask away. It would do you no good to be too afraid to seek answers.”

“I remember hearing that Ajax used to be called a God of Slaughter… Is that true?”

Zhongli stared with consideration and the Traveler remained patient. Paimon glanced between the two with awkwardness, the tense atmosphere becoming a bit heavy. 

The older’s expression remained indifferent as he thought over the question. “I see… Where did you hear of this?”

“Um, I think someone mentioned it while we were asking around,” Paimon replied. “But, they said not to mention it so…”

Zhongli took a silent breath, brow furrowed in deep thought. “The Archon War... It was never known for kindness or mercy. It was a brutal era that seemed never-ending. During a time where there were endless conflicts and constant pursuers, it is natural that one may…change to survive or protect.”

His amber eyes wandered toward the direction of Guyun Stone Forest. “I am sure that, by now, you’ve heard of Rex Lapis’ accomplishments of sealing and defeating many gods. Yet, his actions are one of many. Many divine fell beyond the numbers that Rex Lapis dealt with.”

The Traveler stared as Zhongli’s gaze returned to the table. They remained silent as the man continued. 

“The time of the Archon War has passed and it is clear that Ajax maintains a significantly more peaceful role. I do not believe he should be under scrutiny for simply desiring to survive and protect what he held dear. As a being who desires to protect life, I can not imagine what a time of war must have been like for him.”

Zhongli’s expression shifted into something serious. “But I can not speak for a god nor do I have any right to speak about the feelings of another on their behalf. Only that person may speak for themselves. What you have asked, Traveler, is a sensitive topic. You should let certain things lie and remain at rest.”

The Traveler nodded, somewhat satisfied with the response. “Of course.”

There was a momentary silence before Zhongli realized the meal was finished during their conversation. He reached into his coat only to blink when he came up empty. 

“Hm…It appears that I have forgotten once again…”

Paimon raised a brow. “Forgot what?”

“Mora.” Zhongli simply said.

It took a second for the Traveler and Paimon to register the implications of such a thing. They turned to look at one another before facing Zhongli with wide eyes. 

“Wh-What do you mean you forgot your Mora!?” Paimon exclaimed. “You’re the one treating us!”

Zhongli gave a minor wince. “I…apologize. I often get ahead of myself.”

The Traveler continued to stare with disbelief before sighing, their palm smacking against their forehead. “Alright, tell me how much this will cost…”

The next day, Zhongli expected to encounter the Traveler again, but he did not expect to invite them into his home. The blonde and their floating companion had sought him out, explaining that they made a gift for Childe. Zhongli had no reason to refuse, especially since Childe would likely lighten up with some visitors. 

“Please make yourselves at home. I will let him know you are here.” Leaving the Traveler and Paimon to get settled, Zhongli made his way to the bedroom where Childe was resting.

He opened the door quietly, peaking his head in only to notice Childe softly snoring in a messy bundle of bed sheets, blankets, and pillows. The younger god was curled up, completely comfy in his odd nest on the bed. Underneath it all, some of the fabrics were slightly caught on Childe’s draconic horns, a long tail rolling off the side of the bed. 

Zhongli moved with care as he closed the door behind him, stepping over any obstacles as he reached Childe. He reached out a hand only for Childe to wake up with a yawn. 

“You’re back already?” He had questioned with confusion, nuzzling the other’s hand with affection. 

Zhongli used his other hand to gently pat Childe’s messy locks. “The Traveler and their companion, Paimon, wished to see you. Yesterday, I had told them you were resting due to stress. It appears they put together a gift to wish you well.”

Childe’s drowsy gaze gradually regained wakefulness as he sat up with a stretch. “Oh? That’s nice of them, but…” He glanced down at his storm of blankets and comfort before looking over at the door to their room. “I kinda don’t wanna leave? Think you can bring them here? I don’t mind shifting back.”

“Of course.” Zhongli tenderly cupped the other’s face, a thumb lightly running over Childe’s cheek where some shimmering scales had formed. “I’ll knock once I’ve brought them.”

“Got it.”

With that, Zhongli departed from the room while Childe used his powers to “put away” his inhuman features. 

The Traveler and Paimon turned away from the bookshelf they were examining, their ears catching the sound of Zhongli descending from the second floor. The man gave them a nod as he spoke. “Childe would be happy to see you. However, I hope you do not mind the fact that he wishes to remain in our room.”

“It’s no problem at all.” The Traveler said, gathering the gift Paimon thought of into their hands. It was some sort of…slime dish Paimon said she dreamed of? Either way, according to Paimon, food is the best remedy. That was still debatable, but it’s not like they had any better ideas.

Paimon hovered in the air with concentration, taking note of Zhongli’s wording. “Wait, so...you guys share a room too?”

“Yes?” Zhongli replied, not understanding the purpose of such a question. “It is to be expected as a married couple.”

The Traveler almost tripped and faceplanted while Paimon leaned forward with wide eyes. “Wait, you’re married!? I thought you guys were just roommates or something!”

Zhongli faintly frowned with concern, making sure the Traveler was fine before responding. “Yes, we are. Is there an issue with that?”

“What? No!” Paimon squeaked out, her hands waving in front of her. “I was just surprised is all! But, uh, congratulations!”

The Traveler nodded from where they stood, offering a shy “congratulations” as well.

Paimon and the Traveler couldn’t help themselves from staring at the unique mess that was the bed. Everything in the home appeared to be rather neat and organized, so this was a bit of a shock. And in the center of the mess of comfort was Childe. He appeared to notice their gazes as his expression turned sheepish. “Oh, hello. It’s been a while since we’ve last met.”

“What in the world happened to the bed?” Paimon commented. “It’s like some sort of…bird nest!” She ignored the Traveler’s scolding glare at her potentially rude wording.

Childe simply laughed it off with a chuckle. “Ah, trust me, it’s normally not like this. But, hey, it’s pretty comfy.”

Paimon hummed before nudging the Traveler. “Anyway, we got you something! Zhongli told us you weren’t doing too well.”

Zhongli seated himself on the edge of the bed as the Traveler handing Childe the wrapped gift. The gods leaned with curiosity as Childe opened it. There was a glistening slime-based dish sitting neatly inside. It looked very pretty presentation-wise.

Childe couldn’t resist the fond smile he gave. “Interesting…It looks pretty good. Thank you both!” He gave a soft giggle to himself. “To be honest, this reminds me of something Xiangling would make.”

“Indeed.” Zhongli agreed. 

“I’m glad you like it.” The Traveler voiced with relief. “Paimon thought of it — said it was from a dream.”

Paimon crossed her arms, an expression full of pride. “Yup and it was a very delicious dream! But the Traveler put a lot of effort into making it a reality!”

Childe used Hydro to create some utensils, carefully slicing a small bite to try. He hummed thoughtfully as he chewed, trying to gauge the flavor of the odd dish. Next to him, Zhongli glanced away due to his distaste toward such slimy-looking foods.

“It’s interesting and…kind of refreshing?” Childe commented with concentration. He gave the Traveler and Paimon a grateful smile. “You two did a great job on it.”

“You’re welcome!” Paimon and the Traveler replied, glad to see their efforts weren’t ending in some sort of disaster. 

Childe’s expression became thoughtful. “Hey, I’ve heard lots about what you did for Mondstadt, but…do you mind telling me about it? It’s not every day I hear genuine tales about people finding dragons, much less fighting one of the Four Winds.”

The Traveler appeared surprised for a moment at the request before complying. They saw no reason not to and it would be nice to share stories. They’ll just have to…alter some details. “Sure, but do you think you could tell me some stories from Liyue in return?”

Childe’s eyes seemed to glint, almost like sparking a flame to life. “Of course! I know lots of stories of all kinds!”

Zhongli gave a faint smile, getting up to bring a chair next to the bed from a nearby desk. The Traveler sat down, immersed in their conversation with Childe. Paimon hovered with excitement, interrupting with some exaggerated comments of her own. 

Seeing that all was well, Zhongli only interfered to give Childe a light kiss on the forehead before leaving to continue errands. It was nice to see Childe relax considering the times. Perhaps he should put something together for the Traveler and Paimon as a “thank you” in return?

“Well, now, it seems like someone couldn’t handle this alone.”

Among the sound of crashing waves was an aura of contained irritation. The ship rocked gently within the ocean. “Silence.” 

Scaramouche’s gaze wandered toward the approaching sight of Liyue Harbor, his expression full of boredom. “Hmph, how bothersome…”

La Signora sat patiently despite her growing annoyance toward the shorter Harbinger. A job is a job after all and the Tsaritsa specifically requested Scaramouche’s involvement. Even if it was logical, it did not mean she had to enjoy this brat’s presence. 

“How bothersome indeed…” Signora muttered softly, mentally reviewing the ensuing chaos that would befall this place. “I do hope you are not forgetting how to play your part.”

Scaramouche scoffed, glancing at her as if she were dumb to ask such a thing. “I should be asking you that considering how you botched this up in the first place.”

“I did no such thing,” Signora spoke coldly. “It was merely the lack of cooperation from the Geo Archon that made it fall apart at the seams.” 

Scaramouche shrugged. “Whatever makes you more comfortable, I guess.”

La Signora’s eyes narrowed and Scaramouche glared back. They remained in a tense silence, neither happy with the other’s presence. But it was all for the sake of the Tsaritsa and her will. One would be foolish to defy it. And so, they must simply tolerate one another until they have played their parts. They both knew they’d be relieved once they could go their separate ways. 

“Traveler, do you mind if I ask something of you?”

The Traveler met Childe’s eyes with confusion but nodded for the other to go on. “What is it?”

Childe paused, mentally forming the words as he finally voiced his request. “I have been feeling very uneasy lately. Call it intuition, but I can’t help myself from sensing this…aura of danger. It’s part of the reason why I haven’t been feeling well.”

His mismatched eyes stared out the bedroom window from where he sat. “Something is telling me that something bad will happen and not just to me, but everyone here.”

Paimon frowned in thought. “Alright, so, what can we do about it?”

Childe stared at his lap before reluctantly removing himself from the bed. He had a thin blanket wrapped over his body as he wandered to the bedroom dresser. He searched through a drawer for a minute before pulling out a paper-thin item. The Traveler ended up having their hand lightly grasped, the item placed into their palm. Once Childe pulled away, they took a closer look. Paimon floated by the blonde’s head to see.

It was talisman-like — a sort of paper charm if the Traveler had to describe it. There were words written in characters that the blonde couldn’t read, nor could Paimon. Either way, despite it’s simple and old appearance, it emitted an aura of importance. 

“So, what is this?” Paimon questioned as Childe returned to his spot in the bed. 

“That is known as a Sigil of Permission,” Childe explained. “It will allow you to enter the land of the Adepti, Jueyun Karst, without any Adepti harming you. Think of it as…a special pass. Show this to the Adepti and they’ll know what it means.”

“This sounds pretty important.” The Traveler said in awe. Such a simple piece of paper holds this much value? “Why do you have something like this lying around?”

Childe gave a small smile. “They say that Rex Lapis used to make those and gave them away. Nowadays though, hardly anyone ever sees them anymore. I…have a sort of connection with the Adepti and I was hoping to warn them of this sense of danger. After all, I’m sure you’ve heard that they are also protectors of Liyue who have stood by Rex Lapis and Ajax’s side.”

Paimon’s eyes lit up with interest. “Oh, I see. It’s sort of like a family heirloom to you?”

Childe nodded. “Yeah.” His expression shifted into one of guilt. “I would go myself, but I’m in no condition to travel that far. I would ask Zhongli, but…”

The Traveler and Paimon’s faces softened at the sight of Childe. The young man slouched into the pile of blankets with a heavy sigh, eyes carrying a certain weight and burden they never noticed before. 

“I know it doesn’t look like it, but Zhongli is just as stressed as I am. Possibly even more so.” Childe elaborated with a frown. “I don’t want to bother him when he’s already got too much on his plate. Besides, even though you’re being sent on my behalf, I thought it would be a good chance for you to see parts of Liyue most don’t get to.”

“I don’t mind.” The Traveler spoke up kindly. “And even if it is just a feeling, you never know.”

Childe glanced up with gratefulness and Paimon piped up from where she floated. “Yeah, and I’m sure the Adepti will appreciate a heads up just in case! After what went down in Mondstadt, who knows if the Fatui or the Abyss Order are scheming all the way out here!”

“…Thank you.” Childe spoke up with a tender smile. Ah, these two were certainly too kind. It made him feel bad for using them like this. But, hopefully, they’ll enjoy the adventure such a once-in-a-lifetime trip will offer them. “I promise to repay you for this. Even then, I don’t think it’ll be enough.”

“However,” Childe added sternly. “Do note that the Sigil of Permission will only act as a sign that the Adepti can’t bring you harm. It doesn’t have powers to protect you from any and all dangers, so be careful when encountering monsters or any other hazards.”

“Don’t you worry, we’ll be fine!” Paimon reassured with a bright smile. Childe couldn’t help but return the expression. 

“Thank you and, please,” Childe then raised a hand, his pinky held out. “Promise me you’ll stay safe.” 

The Traveler locked their pinky with Childe’s, their expression containing complete honesty. The action may feel childish, but if it brought reassurance…

“Of course.”

The day seemed to pass on by, hours and minutes ticking away. The bright skies gradually gained evening hues, lanterns being lit within the city of Liyue Harbor. From afar, the location glowed brightly with inviting warmth and liveliness. Located near the front of the city from afar were the crumbled stone pillars of Guyun Stone Forest. The dark silhouettes were barely visible from the docks, but that would not impede the brewing storm that would soon come. 

From a high cliff, La Signora gazed upon the device the Tsaritsa had ordered Il Dottore to create. By now, Scaramouche should be lingering within Liyue Harbor, keeping himself hidden until it is time. 

Signora’s fingertip sparked to life with power, the Tsartisa’s gift responding as it channeled through The Doctor’s invention. Resonating in response were some copied Sigils of Permission. Some time ago, an agent collecting debt from someone within Liyue had sent a genuine one back to the Tsaritsa. While the Cryo Archon had no use for such a thing, the properties it did contain were enough to be of some use. 

Within the peaceful night, dark clouds gradually formed. Existing ones had darkened and begun to converge. From below the waters of Guyun Stone Forest, something stirred from a long time of dormancy. Signora smirked as all was going well. The time for settling this matter peacefully had passed. Now, it was time for force.

From within an alley among the streets of Liyue Harbor, Scaramouche took note of the signs of what was to come. He pushed himself away from the wall he was leaning against, prepared to carry out his part. 

“For a God of Contracts, you really should’ve known better than to go against a contract of your making.” Scaramouche thought back to the information he had managed to gather during the daylight hours. 

He gained a spark of smugness within his eyes as he wandered. “And Ajax…you are not that good at hiding. This place is truly raised by fools.”

“In the end, make sure you return with the Gnosis.”

“And what of Ajax? The god will certainly not let anything befall Rex Lapis.”

The Tsaritsa’s expression remained indifferent as she responded. Once upon a time, she would not be initiating a fight against the kind god or any of her fellow Archons. But those days have passed and she will not let anyone, not even Ajax, stand in her way.

It is unfortunate but necessary. She knows what she is doing is for the better. And, maybe, others will soon realize this as well.

Chapter Text

“Hey,” Paimon spoke from where she hovered. “Do you ever wonder what kind of family Childe must’ve come from to have one of those Sigils of Permission? They seem to have a lot of value, so maybe he’s a descendant of some wealthy family?”

The Traveler could only shrug. “Maybe? I mean, he did give us a lot of Mora for visiting the Adepti and wouldn’t let me go until I kept it.”

When the Traveler and Paimon had returned to Childe after visiting the…interesting Adepti, the young man had rewarded them with far too much. The Traveler did their best to try and return it, but Childe was rather insistent despite being bedridden. That left them with no choice, but to accept the hefty sum of Mora. Not that Paimon was complaining.

A part of the Traveler felt a bit guilty. However, there was not much they could do. At least they don’t have to worry about money for a while.

“Those Adepti were odd too,” Paimon commented idly, crossing her arms with a huff. “And all of them were pretty rude! Well, Moon Carver didn’t seem too bad, but the rest were totally not happy!”

The blonde nodded in agreement. “I don’t think they’ve been around a lot of people and it wasn’t like we came to deliver good news either.”

“But still!” Paimon complained. “Even with the Sigil and everything, most of them were ready to just run off or kick us out! For guardians of Liyue, they sure didn’t act like it. But, hey, at least none of them looked like they were under the influence of the Abyss Order or the Fatui. So, at least we don’t have to worry about another Dvalin situation.”

They really couldn’t argue against that. The Adepti were rather curt and dismissive. However, the Traveler couldn’t help themselves from thinking about the Adeptus, Xiao. While he was also difficult, he was also…paying closer attention than any of the others. It made them wonder if Xiao possessed more care than most of the other Adepti. 

However, before they could voice such thoughts to Paimon, the harbor filled with a sudden wave of chatter. Paimon and the Traveler paused where they stood, glancing at each other with confusion. The feeling was brief though as they followed everyone’s eyes toward the stormy sky. The traveling pair stared with unease, something within them both saying that this wasn’t an ordinary storm.

“Those clouds are looking pretty ominous…” Paimon spoke nervously. 

Their attention was soon caught by people running from the wharf and shouting about something near Guyun Stone Forest. The Traveler didn’t waste any time as they began to hurry for a better view of the situation.

“Paimon, come on!”

“W-Wait, don’t leave me behind!”

The front door opened swiftly, the material going unheard as it banged against the wall of the home. With hurried steps, Zhongli made his way outside, his chest hammering with unease. He came to halt, his sharp gaze analyzing the dark skies as the rain began to pour down. He didn’t need to see any more details to know what was occurring. 

He’d recognize such energy and aura anywhere. 

“Zhongli…!” 

He spun around only to spot Childe leaning against the frame of their front door. He hurried over to help support the younger god. “Childe—“

“That’s— It’s Osial, isn’t it?” Childe choked out, worry evident on his face. He swallowed, throat dry as he wandered further out of their home. Regaining his composure, he glared at the dreadful clouds and distant thunder. 

Childe huffed with irritation. “The Tsaritsa really decided to wake up a fucking god of all things, didn’t she?”

Zhongli hurried over, hands resting on the other’s shoulders with concern. “Childe, I’ll handle this. You should find somewhere safe.”

“I know you’re strong, but you don’t have a full Gnosis,” Childe answered with a frown. “The last time we sealed him away, I helped in keeping him in place. Those heads of his were annoying as hell to deal with!”

Zhongli took a deep breath, not wanting to get into an argument. “I’ll manage just fine.”

Childe opened his mouth to speak, only to be cut off by a distant sound. It echoed throughout Liyue like a sort of siren that shook everyone to their core. The two gods went still, their figures tense as Osial cried out with an awakened desire for vengeance. The threatening roar of the waves further filled the air with a terrifying presence that hadn’t been sensed for centuries. 

It did not make either of them feel any better about this situation. 

The younger god’s eyes wandered toward the many rooftops of Liyue Harbor, another worry blooming within his mind. He turned toward Zhongli with eyes slightly wide with panic. “What about the people? Not all of them will be able to make it out without help.”

Zhongli whipped his head over to stare at Childe. “You are not going to be—“

“I can’t just do nothing!” Childe hissed. “Human protocols for evacuation can only do so much.”

“You are in no condition to be running around where there’s danger.” Zhongli reasoned. “I’ll simply handle this before things can get any worse.”

Childe huffed with frustration. “What are you trying to pull? A fucking world record?! There’s no way you are putting him down that quickly by yourself! You never even fought him alone before so who knows how this will go!?”

Zhongli’s expression turned into a frown, a swirl of emotions within him. “Then, I’ll try. I won’t let anything happen to the harbor and I certainly won’t let anything happen to you or our child.”

Childe glanced at his feet, worrying his bottom lip. He raised his head, eyes glinting. “Please let me help some people. I won’t do too much and I’ll stay away from the fight.”

“Ajax—“

“Please!” Childe insisted. “Morax…they’re the decedents of her people too. They’re not just ours. Let me do something!”

Zhongli paused, inhaling deeply as the stress of the situation grew. His stare was stern as he met Childe’s gaze. “Fine. But we are making it a contract. I will give you seven minutes to help aid the evacuation of Liyue Harbor. You will not do anything too strenuous nor will you go anywhere too dangerous. However, if you feel any sort of discomfort or experience a single close call, you will leave and go somewhere safe without complaint. Understood?”

Childe quickly thought over the terms before nodding. “Understood. But, you are making me a pinky promise! You better not overdo it, okay? And make sure you come back to me!”

Despite the bleak situation, Zhongli couldn’t resist the slight curve of his lips as he gave a faint smile. He locked his pinky with Childe’s. “Of course. It’s a pinky promise.”

The rain poured from above, water tapping upon the many rooftops within the city. With all the noise, none could hear the swift steps dashing across from roof to roof. If one were to use elemental sight, they would’ve noticed the lingering traces of Anemo. 

He swept aside his soaked bangs, his other hand gripping his polearm tightly. When that mysterious traveler had visited the inn speaking of potential danger, he did not expect this of all things. It made Xiao wish he arrived sooner. Again, this is why he keeps telling Childe that he can’t take things easy. Now, look at this mess! 

Hovering above the city, he noticed the famous Jade Chamber moving into position. It made him click his tongue with slight irritation, doubtful that the Tianquan and the Liyue Qixing will be able to do anything against a revived god. He didn’t even need to halt his movements to notice how many soldiers were already trembling due to Osial’s presence alone.

Once again, matters such as these are simply too much for mortals to handle.

“Xiao?!” 

Xiao paused at the call of his name, able to recognize the two voices. He leaped from the rooftop he stood on, making his way to the ground. When he finally straightened his posture after landing, he came face to face with the traveler and Paimon.

“If you wish to avoid disaster, I suggest evacuating like the rest.” He advised curtly. 

“But, what’s happening?” Paimon squeaked out with worry, a hand pointing toward the sea. “And what about that sea monster!? Is it going to destroy the harbor!?”

“That’s Osial, God of the Vortex. Now, if you’ll excuse me—“ Xiao found himself interrupted once more.

“There you are!” 

Turning around, he spotted light hair and familiar horns. With her bow in hand, an icy trail dusting her heels, Ganyu made her way over. Her eyes were alert but seemed to relax slightly at the sight of a fellow Adeptus. 

“Xiao, I finally found you. Please come to the Jade Chamber, I have helped gather the other arriving Adepti.” Ganyu informed. 

His gaze narrowed with confusion. “But why the Jade Chamber? Those mortals won’t be able to do much of anything against Osial. Nor will they be able to keep up with us.”

“Lady Ningguang has a method of defense that may help bide the citizens some time,” Ganyu explained with haste. However, Xiao remained reluctant.

He shook his head, eyes glancing around as if searching for something. Meanwhile, the Traveler and Paimon could only observe the growing chaos with every passing second. 

“I must find Rex Lapis,” Xiao spoke. “I must also locate Ajax.”

Ganyu’s expression softened. “I understand, but I am sure they will be alright.” She then took a deep breath, the stress of it all returning. “Please, we must hurry to the Jade Chamber. We will need as much adeptal energy as possible to fend off against Osial.”

The Traveler took a step forward, mouth opening to speak only to spot something from their peripherals. They quickly checked over their shoulder before their eyes widened. Seconds later, the rest of the remaining locals cried out in fear. A large mass over water rose from the sea like a sort of wall, ominously threatening to drown the harbor.

“Watch out!” The Traveler instinctively warned. Paimon hid behind them, peeking out from over their shoulder as she shouted fearfully.

Xiao and Ganyu knew they could not do much against it but still positioned themselves into battle stances. However, before the powerful waves could touch the harbor, a massive slab of stone rose from the ocean’s floor. The people of Liyue could only watch in fascination, only harmless splashes of water making it over the barrier.

With sharp eyes, Xiao turned to glance at his surroundings. He came to a halt, vision locking onto the distant figure of someone by a cliff that faced the open waters. He didn’t need to get any closer to realize who it is. Xiao sighed before facing Ganyu, satisfied by locating Rex Lapis. And if Rex Lapis is fine, then Ajax must be fine as well. That was enough to settle his unease, the feeling causing an unpleasant sensation similar to suffocation. “Fine. Let’s go to the Jade Chamber.”

Ganyu’s eyes widened with surprise before she nodded. “Of course.”

“H-Hold on!” The Adepti looked at the Traveler who appeared embarrassed at the sudden attention. However, they continued. “Can I come with you? I’m sure I can help!”

“That’s right!” Paimon added before either of the Adepti could interrupt. “We’ve helped Barbatos in Mondstadt, so we can help with this too! Although, uh…” She glanced at the rising form of Osial, Rex Lapis’ stone barrier returning to the earth. “He is pretty scary…”

Ganyu shared a glance with Xiao before coming to an answer — even if it was a bit hesitant. “I see… Any help is appreciated, but would you mind helping with the evacuation? Rex Lapis and Ajax will be able to fend off Osial, but as the guardians of Liyue, we must aid the gods we are contracted to.”

“We’ll be able to handle it from here. Besides, Rex Lapis and Ajax will be able to end this quickly,” Xiao stated. 

Before the Traveler or Paimon could get another word in, the Adepti departed to the Jade Chamber, practically vanishing before their eyes. The traveling pair could only share a look before hurrying through the city, running from place to place to help the panicking locals.  

“This way!”

“Th-Thank you, sir!”

Childe observed as the woman lifted her child into her arms before running off toward somewhere safe. Once he was sure they’d be alright, he continued to search for any other locals in need. 

The moment Zhongli left, he had done his best to aid as many people as he could. Ranging from children to adults, he had led them away from the danger or put some ease into their hearts. It was stressful considering his time limit, but it was worth it.

There was the creaking of wood among the screams and storm, Childe whipping his gaze toward the commotion. He carefully dashed forth, hand reaching out as he created platforms of Hydro. The building that was about to collapse on a group of civilians was held up by the Hydro structures. The people did not question it, swiftly distancing themselves from the halted catastrophe. Childe made sure all had left before gently lowering the crumbling debris. As soon as he did, he huffed out a relieved sigh tinged with fatigue. He mentally took in the amount of time that has passed.

“He’s giving me seven minutes…it should be minuet five by now.” He calculated with a frown. It felt as if time had sped up and that just made him feel as if he hasn’t done enough. 

Childe had to pause, catching his breath as a drowsy sensation lingered in his eyes. He knew he was fine, it is just him feeling tired as usual. He has avoided moving around too fast, but maybe that brief run he had done to prevent a collapsing building was a tad too much. Out of pure instinct, he lightly rested a hand over his abdomen. “Everything is fine… This is nothing compared to war.”

A hand rested on his knee as he breathed, eventually standing straight. Once he did, he spotted an odd shape within his peripherals. He turned over to look, catching sight of a short figure tripping and falling to the ground. Judging by the attire, Childe could tell that this person is from Inazuma. 

Without hesitation, Childe made his way over, his gaze taking in just how young the foreigner looks. Is this person…a child? What is a child from Inazuma doing all the way out here? What about his parents? Are they simply young in appearance? Either way, Childe could not ignore someone in need. Especially not someone so young. 

“Scaramouche, you are to locate Ajax and confront him. I recommend using your appearance to your advantage. A survivor and mighty warrior Ajax may be, but his heart has always been too soft.”

“Are you alright?” Childe questioned as he walked close, leaning over with an outstretched hand. He made sure to raise his voice so it may be heard over the noise. The young Inazuman looked over, tightly grasping Childe’s hand. Their eyes locked as the foreigner raised his head to look at Childe. 

However, as soon as they made direct eye contact, that innocent shine within this Inazuman boy’s eyes felt off to Childe. Something about it felt wrong. It reminded him of those days where he’d meet the gaze of several deities, weighing their crimes and putting them to rest via bloodshed. 

The younger god’s instincts flared to life like some sort of alarm and Childe chose to trust it.

As soon as he went to yank himself away to create distance, Scaramouche lunged as he grasped onto Childe’s arm with a firm grip. The Harbinger’s blue eyes glinted with something more sinister, electric sparks dancing between them.

“You really aren’t difficult to find.”

Childe’s eyes glowed brightly, Hydro and Geo circling by his feet defensively. At the same time, Scaramouche freed a hand that aimed directly for Childe’s chest. 

“And what of Ajax? The god will certainly not let anything befall Rex Lapis.”

The Tsaritsa’s expression had remained indifferent as she responded. “Ajax is merely an obstacle who is blocking us from our goal. Do as you wish.”

“I wonder..since you aren’t an Archon, do you have anything to offer?”

The howling winds and roaring water drowned out Childe’s pained scream.

Ice fractured upon the cliff, the blades of grass collecting frost. A polearm illuminated with Geo as Zhongli struck the shards that flung toward him. La Signora stood feet away, not at all bothered by her failed attack. Zhongli glanced behind him to check on Osial, the barrier of stone he had made returning to its original state, before a shard of ice barely grazed his cheek. 

With narrowed eyes that glowed bright, he shot a glare of impatience at Signora. The woman simply offered a faint smile. “You might as well make this easier for all of us. The Tsaritsa’s patience wears thin.”

Zhongli refused to respond, not wishing to waste time with a conversation. If it weren’t for her appearing, he would’ve had the time to completely shift and engage Osial in battle. Instead, she continued to interrupt him at every turn. So far, he had given her the chance to realize she will not be retrieving the Gnosis—to realize she will gain nothing from him—, but she refused to leave. Perhaps it was time to finally be harsher against this mortal...

However, just as he was about to use his powers to cut her off from interfering any further, there was an odd jolt within his chest. Zhongli’s eyes widened by a fraction at the sensation. It wasn’t painful. Not at all. But it was a startling tug that clawed at him internally. Despite never experiencing such a phenomenon before, something within him knew what caused it. 

Zhongli’s gaze swiftly wandered over the distant sight of Liyue Harbor despite knowing he couldn’t see Childe from here. 

There was a sudden change in the air, a strong wave of frigid air sweeping past him. Zhongli brought his spear up only for Signora to reach him first, avoiding his attempt to block her. He could only curse his own foolishness as her nails dug into his chest, harshly yanking his Gnosis from his chest. It was a painful yank as the chains of power were strained, only to snap under the force. With heavy breaths and pathetic wheezing, Zhongli collapsed to his knees. His spear pressed against the rain-soaked soil as he used it as a makeshift crutch.

Staring at the ground as he attempted to recover, heels entered the corner of his vision. Ah, if he were anyone else—maybe if he were more like Childe—he would’ve spat on her shoes.

“Oh? Is something wrong?” Signora spoke smugly. 

Zhongli’s sharp gaze fell upon her, demanding answers. His voice was a low hiss, a sort of draconic snarl within it. “What have you done?” Having his Gnosis stolen was something he could bear, but that was not what he was asking about. 

Childe… What happened to Childe?

Signora’s eyes carried a glimmer of mirth as if silently laughing at the Archon’s unsettled state. “Did you really think you were the only one targeted?”

The older god had no response to give, simply glaring at the ground. Taking the Archon’s silence as a victory for her, Signora opened her closed fist, awaiting the sight of yet another Gnosis to gift the Tsaritsa. But the moment her eyes laid upon the Gnosis, her calm demeanor began to tip over the edge. Her expression soured at the item in her hand, her mind trying to piece together what she was seeing. 

“What is the meaning of this?” Zhongli glanced up at an irritated La Signora. Within her hand was the Gnosis, but…

In was merely the top half of the Gnosis  — which should’ve been whole in the first place. Instead, it appears to have been split in two with the location of the second half remaining unknown. Not even the Tsaritsa had warned the Harbingers of such a possibility.

“Was this,” Signora spoke sharply. “What you would’ve given me had you gone along with the contract? If I recall correctly, this was not part of the contract.”

“I said I would give you my Gnosis and I have, though unwillingly.”

She glared at Zhongli. “Where’s the other half?”

Zhongli remained silent. 

“Huh? What is this?” 

Scaramouche held the bottom half of the Gnosis between his thumb and index finger. He brought it up, turning it in his hand as he examined it. One could not describe the confusion and awe swirling within him. Unconsciously, his other hand reached toward his neck, wiping the blood that trickled from a shallow wound. By the time he had pulled the item out of the god’s chest, Hydro blades left several scratches along his body while a Geo shard had nearly sliced his throat. The god could’ve easily killed him, but didn’t. Was it due to the uncertainty of using lethal force or an unintentional miss?

Scaramouche supposed that it did not matter. Instead, he chose to ignore the minor pain in favor of examining the odd Gnosis.

Perhaps there is more to Liyue’s gods than anyone ever thought. 

Meanwhile, Childe could barely focus on anything. His head rang with noise, chest spasming, and his body assaulted with trembles. His body instinctively curled up in response to the danger and uncomfortable sensations, arms protectively wrapping over his abdomen where the egg is. 

In. Out. In. Out. 

Childe attempted to think about something — anything that could help him. His mind was in a haze and he wasn’t entirely sure where his sense of gravity has gone. He felt weightless and yet he felt tethered to the cold chill the rain brought. What just happened? What is happening? He doesn’t understand. He’s never felt anything like this before. All he knows is that it hurts and it isn’t a pain he is used to. It was not one from the numerous wounds he gained in combat, nor was it a wound in his domestic life that Zhongli would kiss better. 

This… It felt so empty — so hollow. His chest felt as if someone just dumped a jar’s contents onto the floor and gave it back.

Childe’s fingers twitched as he formed a weak fist, attempting to call forth his divine powers. A weak ball of water formed before his eyes, the shape collapsing into a normal puddle. However, it didn’t feel right. Something was wrong. While he doesn’t have nearly as much of it as Zhongli does, he does possess minor Geo abilities. 

So, why… Why did he feel like he was reaching for empty air?

Childe wheezed, attempting to move — to do something. Scaramouche simply observed, remaining unimpressed as a god squirmed pathetically on the ground. 

“You really don’t live up to your reputation. But that’s not my problem.”

“Hey! Get away from him!”

Scaramouche clicked his tongue, storing the bottom half of the Gnosis away. Adjusting his hat, he skillfully avoided the swing of a sword. Blonde locks whipped around the Traveler’s face, expression narrowing with anger. 

Paimon hastily followed from her spot in the air, staring the Harbinger down with a frown. “Leave him alone! What do you even think you’re doing!?”

Scaramouche huffed before making a swift departure, not appreciating the pitched voice of the floating “pixie”. “Whatever. My work here is done.”

The traveling pair attempted to catch him, but it was a futile effort. Before they knew it, Scaramouche had already fled the scene of the crime. 

Paimon hovered around, attempting to spot the Harbinger with little luck. “Geez, who was he? And to attack someone when Liyue is in danger?”

The Traveler hurried to Childe’s side, kneeling as they tried to check the young man for any wounds. “Childe, what did he do? Will you be alright? Should I bring you somewhere safe?”

Childe blinked, the glazed look in his eyes gradually fading away into awareness. “H-Huh…? I…”

The blonde placed their sword down, doing their best to try and hoist Childe up from the ground. The younger god’s arm was limply slung over the Traveler’s shoulders. With some effort, Childe managed to sit upright. 

“Thanks…” 

“Did you know that guy who attacked you?” Paimon interrogated with worry. 

Childe’s free hand weakly pressed against his chest, the god taking a moment to regain his bearings. His eyes widened when he slowly processed just what happened. Even if it happened too quickly for him to completely process, he understood the gist of it. 

“… Th-The Gnosis… Shit.” Childe breathed heavily, biting his bottom lip. 

“Gnosis? But, that’s knowledge only the—“ Paimon’s eyes widened with shock. “Wait… Are you a god!?”

The Traveler examined Childe’s appearance once more and they felt embarrassed that they didn’t realize it sooner. Now that they think about it, the signs were…a bit obvious. Especially the eyes.

“You’re Ajax, aren’t you?” The Traveler’s question was rhetorical. 

Despite the pain he was experiencing, Childe emitted a weak laugh. It sounded more hysterical than light-hearted. “Ha… S-Surprise, I guess?”

Chapter Text

Clothes rustled as the Traveler helped Childe settle somewhere that appeared to be somewhat safe. As soon as he sat down, Childe emitted a drawn-out exhale as he slumped against the trunk of the tree. Paimon hovered about as she kept a vigilant eye out for anything bad. 

“Thanks… Sorry about this.” 

Paimon floated close, disbelief written on her face. “You got attacked by someone, likely a Harbinger, and you’re apologizing? It’s not like you asked for it to happen and I can’t even imagine what it’s like to have a Gnosis removed by force!”

At that, the Traveler winced at the memory of Venti who had ended up collapsing to the ground. But, even when in obvious pain, he continued to insult that Harbinger woman only to receive a harsh kick to the abdomen. Meanwhile, some Fatui agents held them back from helping. It was not something they wanted to relive, but it seems that they came too late to help Liyue’s gods. 

The blonde’s eyes widened. “Wait, what about Zhongli? If you’re Ajax, then Zhongli is Rex Lapis. But…the Gnosis was with you?”

Childe offered a weak grin. “Hahaha, well now, that’s…kind of a long story. But we kind of, uh, split the Gnosis…like…in half.”

“You can do that!?” Paimon exclaimed, the Traveler equally shocked at the revelation. When they first learned of a Gnosis, Venti had never mentioned anything about this! Did Venti not know? Or was this something that couldn’t be shared?

The younger god silently chuckled at the visible confusion he caused before his expression turned serious. “H-Have either of you seen, Zhongli? He should’ve done something long before now…” Childe stared at his lap at the realization. Where is Zhongli? Is he alright? Did something happen?

The amount of worry and anxiety that developed made him feel ill.

Much to his misfortune, the traveling duo both shook their heads. The blonde’s eyes shined sadly, an apology on the tip of their tongue. “Sorry, we haven’t seen him. The only one’s we’ve really seen besides the people are the Adepti.”

“Th-The Adepti…?” Childe’s eyes seemed to brighten just a tad at the mention of Liyue’s other guardians. “Do you know where they—?” 

Before he could finish, Osial cried out and thrashed as pure adeptal energy was rapidly fired at his serpent-like extensions. They writhed as the rough waters harshly crashed against whatever solid surface there was. Childe’s gaze softened as he stared at the Jade Chamber, his eyes barely spotting the three machines that rested upon an odd transparent field in the sky. Even if he couldn’t see them well, he can recognize the medium of the adeptal attacks with ease. 

“The Guizhong Ballista…” He spoke quietly to himself. “And three o-of them no less.” Ah, how long has it been since he’s seen a functional Guizhong Ballista? When was the last time he’s seen one be put to use? It’s been too long. Far too long. But their lack of use also served as a sign that there were no great dangers, even if he did miss the machines. However, he knew that Zhongli and he would always miss the creator thousands of times more. 

“Guizhong…” Childe lightly shook his head. Now was not the time.

The momentary victory anyone felt at witnessing the attack had soon vanished. For some odd reason, the firing rate from Liyue’s line of defense seemed to slow. One could not help, but feel as if something was up.

Paimon frowned, eyes locked onto the Jade Chamber. “H-huh, is something wrong? They were firing just fine a second ago!”

Childe’s gaze narrowed sharply but was still unable to see what the hold up was. What is happening up there that the Adepti aren’t handling? 

With a moment of silence, he formulated an idea. “Traveler.” The blonde and Paimon turned to face him in response. 

Childe continued once he captured their attention. “You helped Barbatos and it seems that something isn’t going well on Zhongli’s end. He wouldn’t be stalling for so long and even the Adepti are struggling with something... Do you think you could help?”

The blonde didn’t hesitate, expression tight, but determined. “Of course.”

Childe slowly took a deep breath, briefly closing his eyes as he called for his natural affinity over Hydro. With a weakly raised hand, a staircase of small Hydro steps rapidly formed. The Traveler and Paimon followed the trail of steps in awe, noticing how it was trying to reach the Jade Chamber. From where he sat, Childe frowned as his vision seemed to blur for a split second. He pushed it aside despite the exhaustion gnawing at him. “Go and help them. Tell them I sent you. I-I don’t know what’s wrong, but I feel like they’re being interrupted. Maybe…y-you can do something about it…? Even if you can’t… Try. Please.”

The Traveler and Paimon shared a worried glance, slightly hesitant to depart as they noticed Childe’s state. Paimon hovered close, noticing how Childe’s eyes were slightly glazed over and gradually losing wakefulness. “But what about you? Will you be okay?”

Childe gave a faint smile, doing his best to reassure the traveling pair. “I’ll…be fine. Just…tired. Now, go…!” He worried his bottom lip as he looked toward the sky at his incomplete stairs. “I’ll build the rest to the Jade Chamber as you go. I pinky promise I won’t drop you.”

With one last glance of concern, the Traveler and Paimon began to swiftly, but carefully make their way up the staircase Childe held up. 

“We’ll do whatever we can!” Paimon shouted back before she left Childe’s range of hearing. 

Childe’s expression settled onto a guilty frown as he made sure the two made it up there safely. “I’m sorry… You’re so young and I’m making you fight a battle you shouldn’t have to…” He couldn’t help himself from resting his free hand upon his chest. “I was tricked so easily and I can’t even protect our harbor in its hour of need…”

As soon as the Traveler had made to it the Jade Chamber, Childe allowed his powers to rest. The stairs fell apart, combining with the heavy rainfall that drenched the land. 

With the hope that all will be well, he was unable to resist the pull of sleep.

Water dripped at a rapid pace from the transparent platform located before the Jade Chamber, an endless battle unfolding. Blood spilled and he ignored the way it landed on him as another Fatui fell to his polearm. Xiao carelessly wiped his cheek, a pale smear left behind. His golden eyes narrowed, glancing at his surroundings once again. “Something isn’t right… They’re still not here.”

He spotted movement from his peripherals and didn’t miss a beat. The winds of Anemo guided him swiftly, a cryogunner legionnary unable to fire at Mountain Shaper as Xiao stabbed the Fatui in the chest. As the skirmisher fell, no words of thanks were exchanged between the two Adepti — they didn’t need to.

“Damn Fatui.” Xiao hissed to himself. Moments later, arrows imbued with Cryo soared above him. They hit their targets, a small group of Fatui stumbling back at the icy shower sent forth by Ganyu. 

Some distance away, Keqing seemed to fade in and out of existence with the violet sparks of Electro. Xiao didn’t pay attention to how many Fatui fell by the girl’s hand as she protected Ningguang. The Tianquan hovered in concentration, her mind sharp as she tuned out the chaos in order to keep everyone from falling from the sky. Madam Ping remained nearby Ningguang for protection, her body unable to keep up for the frontlines. However, one must wince if a stray Fatui got too close. While Madam Ping has aged greatly, she is still able to contain adeptal energies. All it took was a good kick to knock one unconscious.

But still, that didn’t erase the fact that the swarm of Fatui appeared to be endless. Whenever one fell, it seemed that two more took the place of the fallen comrade. For the Adepti, the Fatui were no issue, but it didn’t make them any less irritating. Xiao knows that they need to maintain enough time for Cloud Retainer, Mountain Shaper, and Moon Carver to focus completely. Yet, these Fatui were causing a break in the focus all while attempting to destroy their only method of attack against Osial. They are fortunate enough that the slow shots fired from the ballistas are enough to keep Osial busy — even if it’s barely effective. However, Osial is still newly awakened and not quite at his peak. So any form of distraction or damage is, at least, worth something . 

“But it’s not effective enough.” Xiao swung his polearm wildly, each swing conveying the strength of a mighty gale. He bit the bottom of his lip, his expression outwardly fierce while his heart filled with worry. “Where are they?” Something just has to be wrong. Morax and Ajax should’ve been able to end this almost as soon as it started! What could be keeping them?

Xiao swiftly raised his weapon, the end of his polearm moving to deflect a bullet encased in Pyro. Before he could charge toward the pyroslinger bracer, someone got there before him. 

He could only stare as familiar blonde locks seemed to light up the dark and stormy battlefield, a sword slicing forth. It was not enough to be a killing blow, but it was enough for the Fatui agent to back off. Xiao didn’t waste time to catch up, his weapon spearing the skirmisher through the back. Xiao huffed, yanking his polearm free before facing the stunned Traveler. Paimon’s gaze was trying to ignore the newly-made corpse, her expression nervous and frightened. Ah, perhaps he should have been a bit more…careful about his timing. 

“What are you doing here?” He questioned with a glare. His eyes narrowed further with confusion. “How did you managed to get here?”

“It was Childe, he sent us here!” The Traveler spoke up, their voice raised to be heard over the background noise. 

Xiao’s eyes widened with surprise. “What…?” He shook his head, composing himself. Now wasn’t the time to fool around. His tone was harsh as he spoke. “Where is he?”

The Traveler answered, Paimon unable to find the courage to respond. “By a tree in Liyue Harbor. He told us to come here and he made a staircase for us.” Their gold eyes softened and Xiao tensed at the emotion reflected within. 

“He was attacked by, who we think is, a Harbinger.” Being careful of their wording just in case the other didn’t know, the Traveler continued. “The Fatui got what they wanted.” 

Xiao’s fist clenched. “The Gnosis… Damn it…!” Tightening his grip around his weapon, he met the Traveler’s gaze. “The Fatui are bothering us and preventing us from a full assault against Osial. I don’t know what has happened to Morax, but if neither of them are able to help and we are unable to focus our power to attack Osial…”

The Traveler’s sword seemed to gleam in the faint light, Anemo and Geo abilities preparing to unleash. Their expression was determined as they nodded. “I’ll help keep them off of you.”

Xiao nodded. “Let’s get to work then.” As he prepared to sprint back into the battle, he offered one last piece of advice. “Also, make sure to keep those Fatui from damaging the ballistas!”

“Got it!”

Xiao desperately wanted to leap toward the harbor and find Morax and Ajax, but he couldn’t do that. He had to help protect the place and his power is needed here. As much as it pains him, he has to wait until he can go look for them.

The Yaksha can only hope that the gods are alright.

The puddles in the streets reflected the faint golden glow of a special polearm, the spearhead soundlessly grating against the paved street. Shoes squelched with every step due to being soaked by the rain. However, he could care less about it. 

Zhongli inhaled slowly, a hand gripping his weapon as a crutch. His other had his fingers clenched around the fabric of his clothes over where his heart would be. A lingering hollowness remained ever since he partially recovered from the stealing of his Gnosis, the sensation causing seemingly endless anxiety. Without his Gnosis, he can’t even be given that vague sense of where Childe is. He could sense nothing and it did not matter that he still possesses great power over Geo due to his Adeptus side. What good was this power if he couldn’t find Childe with it or protect their harbor? He should’ve done better… 

Zhongli mentally chuckled with no humor behind it. “I suppose not even over six thousand years of knowledge and experience can keep one from being so foolish…” Yet, he wanted to try and find Childe. Moments before his Gnosis was stolen, he felt something . Even if he had no clue what it was or what it meant, he knows it must’ve been something relating to Childe. It has to be. 

Signora’s words before she fled with his Gnosis confirmed this as fact. 

The worry continued to bloom within him, eyes searching desperately for any sign of Childe. For all he knows, the younger could have hurried off for safety and could not be in the city at all. But if Childe indeed was attacked by, likely, another Harbinger, then could Childe have gone far? 

He has to find Childe. He has to make sure that Childe and their—

Zhongli stood up straight despite the exhaustion he felt, the fatigue pulling at him like weights. Blinking, his vision focused past the pouring rain to the familiar locks of hair. 

He swallowed as he hastened his pace, collapsing to his knees the moment he was within arm’s reach. His polearm clattered against the soaked grass, his hands reaching toward Childe’s shoulders. Zhongli released the breath he was holding when he picked up the telltale signs of breathing — of life. 

Childe’s ginger locks were slightly darkened due to the water, clothes sticking to his body like a second skin. His expression was peaceful despite the noise and chaos surrounding them. Both of Childe’s hands rested gently atop his stomach as he continued to rest. Zhongli didn’t wish to disturb the other, but it was necessary. He had to make sure everything is alright. And so, he did his best to carefully shake the other awake.

“Childe? Chi—Ajax, can you wake up?” Zhongli shook the other a tad harder. “Ajax, please wake up…?”

There was a break in Childe’s rhythmic breathing, a sign of his awakening. Zhongli held the other close as Childe leaned his weight against the older. A few moments later, there was finally some form of verbal response. “Hm…?”

Zhongli wrapped his arms around Childe securely. “I’m glad you are alright. You… You are fine, right?” His gaze then fell to Childe’s abdomen, a lone hand hesitatingly reaching forth. “Is…?”

Childe blinked, awareness gradually returning to him. One of his hands moved to clasp Zhongli’s. “I-I think so. Just…tired.”

Despite the situation, Zhongli emitted a soft laugh. “You and me both.”

Brushing his lips on Childe’s damp forehead, he prepared to help hoist the other into standing. “Come on. It is no good staying here.” 

With a grunt, the two of them slowly worked their way to standing. Zhongli managed to use his feet to kick his polearm far enough to grasp, using it as a crutch once more. Childe slouched against Zhongli, struggling to make the older not bear all the weight. 

“Mind telling me what happened?” Zhongli questioned as they carefully made their way down the street. 

Childe’s head lazily rested against Zhongli as he responded. “I think it was a Harbinger. He looked really young…possibly an Inazuman kid. At least, from appearance alone. I noticed his intent too late… G-Got away with my half. I’m sorry…”

“Don’t be. I lost my half of it just as foolishly.” 

Childe lifted his head a little at that, an expression containing that of disbelief. “What ?” 

Ah, that’s right. The odd jolt Zhongli felt must’ve been when Childe lost the Gnosis. So the other wouldn’t know. “The Harbinger, Signora, caught me off guard during a moment of weakness. I think…I may have sensed what happened to you and it caused an opening for her.”

Childe’s gaze was aimed at the ground and Zhongli could tell the other felt guilty. “Ajax, it wasn’t your fault. We never knew what to expect nor how it would—“

“I know, I know, but…” Childe groaned with irritation. “It’s still shitty. All of this is shitty.” His arm that hung limply by his side made a lazy gesture as it raised outward, only to fall back to the younger’s side.

Zhongli simply hummed in agreement, the rumble in his chest felt by Childe with how close they were.

There was a pause before Childe sighed, expression telling of many burdens. “What do we do now? There’s no way we’re gonna be useful like this. That means it’s up to the Adepti and Qixing, even the Traveler…”

Zhongli raised a brow. “The Traveler?”

Childe was a tad sheepish. “I, uh…helped them get to the Jade Chamber. I could tell s-something was wrong and thought they could help since they helped Barbatos.”

“I suppose that is not a bad call to make,” Zhongli spoke in thought. “But, yes, we…we can not do much under these circumstances.”

“…Do you think they can do this without us?”

Zhongli’s brow furrowed as he formulated a response. “I—“ His steps came to a halt, pausing as he felt Childe tense. “Ajax?”

Childe’s gaze appeared unfocused, eyes blinking more than they needed to. Zhongli could feel the anxiety creeping up as he observed, every passing second providing him no reply. 

“Ajax?”

Childe took a deep breath, a headache forming. “I... Zhongli… My eye hurts.”

Zhongli maneuvered the younger so he could get a proper look. “Which one?”

“U-Uh…both? But, um, the yellow one mostly…”

Zhongli leaned close to examine the eye matching his own. It didn’t appear like anything was wrong. So what—

Their balance shifted and the two almost fell flat on their faces when Childe nearly collapsed. Zhongli managed to grab the other, but did could not keep them standing. With care, he lowered them to the ground. Both of them panted with slightly heavy breaths. 

“Ajax, are you okay?”

Childe’s body heaved with harsh breathing, arms shaky as he held himself up from falling forward. Zhongli bent himself lower to get a better view of the other’s face, only to stare. Childe’s expression was strained with agony, teeth clenched as he breathed. The minor hissing with every labored breath was practically inaudible. 

“Ajax…!?” 

Before Childe could respond, a loud crash echoed within the air. Zhongli whipped around to find the source, a bright glow shining where Osial was. He noticed that the Jade Chamber was no longer hovering within the sky. However, the force of whatever occurred caused a great gust to sweep through the city, debris flying free. Zhongli mustered his strength, a shield surrounding them just as a part of a broken roof nearly squashed them. Childe’s body trembled tensely under Zhongli’s protective hold, a pained and choked sound escaping the younger’s lips. 

Once the danger passed, Zhongli allowed the shield to drop. He didn’t miss a beat as he turned his attention back to Childe. He didn’t know how to react as he noticed just how much Childe was hurting.

“What’s wrong!? Ajax!?”

Childe inhaled sharply, trying to gather his bearings before finally speaking. “W-Worst. Timing. E-Ever .” He muttered out a string of curses as he tried to move, only to groan. Tears prickled the corners of his eyes.

“G-Get me somewhere…safe. Preferably...c-comfortable….”

Zhongli blinked, still not quite understanding. “What—“

The older squinted as Childe gave a lazy and weak slap to Zhongli’s head. It was more like a light pat than anything. Despite the discomfort Childe felt, the younger snorted. “B-Barbatos isn’t wrong, you blockhead…”

Before Zhongli could refute the claim their fellow god had once said, Childe managed to pull Zhongli’s hand to his abdomen. With widening eyes, Zhongli finally understood the message. He mentally cursed at the poor timing. 

With one glance at their surroundings, he took note of the clearing skies and morning light. It appears that Osial was somehow dealt with. That was good. But now…there’s another urgent matter. Zhongli took a deep breath, fighting against his own weakness to carry Childe in his arms. He ignored how his polearm clattered to the ground. 

The other yelped at the suddenness before Zhongli hurried, mentally mapping out the closest and best place he could think of. Especially a place that wasn’t too wrecked and will have the proper supplies. The threat of Osial may have stopped, but Zhongli swore that this was even more nerve-wracking. 

“There you are!”

Zhongli turned as something passed by him. He nearly stumbled into Xiao who had appeared before him in a gust of Anemo. It didn’t take long before he could hear the exhausted panting of the Traveler and Paimon who struggled to keep up.

“Xiao—”

“Where the hell—?!” Xiao cut himself off as soon as he caught sight of Childe. He hurried close, completely serious. “What happened ?”

The Traveler rested their hands on their knees, Paimon no better despite floating. The moment she hovered by, she became worried. “Childe? What happened to him!?”

Zhongli huffed with impatience. “I need to locate a place that can give him privacy.”

Xiao blinked. “Wha—”

Zhongli continued without pause. “—And the supplies we’ll need to help deliver an egg. Now .” 

The last word was a command, a certain strength in the Archon’s tone that made any questions die out. As much as the stress of it all left them confused, they began to aid the gods however they could. 

It was a long night and now, it was going to be a long day.

Chapter Text

The floor creaked, the ground shimmering as sunlight peeked into the building and glinted against the water that had seeped in due to the storm. Footsteps paced back and forth, a polearm twirling as a result of nervous energy. In a closed room nearby, the early morning’s silence was occasionally broken by sounds of pain. Yet, there was nothing he could do. He had no skills nor knowledge in this sort of thing. So, it left him to uselessly wait around.

Xiao despised the fact he couldn’t be of any use even though he’s the one who helped find a stable place for it. With a strained sigh, Xiao massaged his temples in an attempt to alleviate the accumulating stress.

“We should be in the clear.” 

Xiao glanced over at the sound of heels, Ganyu’s bright hair standing out amongst the dark scenery. The yaksha huffed. “Good. The last thing we need are mortals bothering them.”

“Agreed. Though…” Ganyu worriedly gazed upon the closed door. “Has there been any news?”

Xiao shook his head. “No. The most recent was when Madam Ping received the water the Traveler heated and some towels.” His eyes narrowed as he bit his bottom lip. “I haven’t heard anything since and I’d rather not interrupt.”

“I see…” Ganyu stared at her shoes, fingers playing with her sleeves before she looked back up. “I will continue to redirect the Millelith and any civilians from approaching this area. I am sure there is no need to worry, but it never hurts to be careful.”

“And the Qixing?” 

“I…may have needed to inform Lady Ninguang and Keqing that our gods need this area for the moment and can not be disturbed,” Ganyu admitted. “I do not think they suspect this specific scenario, but I can’t guarantee that they may question me for further details at a later date.”

Xiao clicked his tongue with irritation. “Mortals and their need to bother us… As if they have any rights to know the business of those beyond them.”

Ganyu frowned, feeling as if she did something wrong. “My apologies, but I was unsure how I could justify the need to keep this area deserted.”

Xiao shrugged a shoulder, expression still appearing a tad irritated. “It’s not like we can change it now.” 

“Of course.” Ganyu’s steps were quiet as she made her way back outside. “Anyway, I will continue to keep an eye on the area. I believe the Traveler and their companion will be returning soon as well.”

Xiao nodded in acknowledgment before Ganyu departed.

The abandoned home then echoed with a pained cry. Xiao flinched at the noise, doing his best to not imagine what his gods are going through. He can not understand how Madam Ping is able to stay and help even if her origins means she has the most knowledge about this sort of thing -- even if it’s still very limited. Meanwhile, the other Adepti had returned to their domains after the exchange on the docks. They had not stuck around long enough to be aware of what was occurring.

In the end, nothing about this scenario is perfect and this isn’t exactly a “normal” birth, but it was the best they could do. 

Xiao could only hope that all will be fine and that their efforts won’t be for naught.

The grip on his hand tightened, nails attempting to dig into his skin as they scraped. Zhongli could only squeeze Childe’s hand in response, hoping it would offer some semblance of comfort.

They both knew from the start that they were unsure how this would go. Hell, they went in not knowing if it would work at all. Yet, they gathered whatever knowledge they could and made as many guesses as possible from the beginning to the end. And yet, it felt as if all that research and care they had done was useless in the face of the real thing.

Zhongli gulped, expression tense as his senses were flooded by Childe’s pain and exhaustion. It made him curse that out of all times this could happen, it had to be the moment where they were at their weakest.

Zhongli likes to believe he isn’t the vengeful type, but he sure had a part of him wishing hell upon something for the trouble.

Childe’s grip relaxed, but only due to his own fatigue. Moments later, Zhongli worried his bottom lip as the other gave a slight screech that broke off into a softer pitched whine. 

Zhongli used his other hand to carefully wipe the tears that had formed on the corner of Childe’s eyes, his chest tightening considerably. Originally, Childe was supposed to shift to help make this easier, but with this weak state and stolen Gnosis…  

At some point, Zhongli’s horns and even some patches of scales had appeared despite how he fought to stay awake.

There was no way he could pass out during such a time! Childe needs him here!

From the other side of the bed, Madam Ping lightly combed through Childe’s hair in a soothing manner. Her expression was that of worry, the woman doing her best to make sure all goes as well as possible. She was equally unsure of how to properly handle this situation, but the help was reassuring.

With how nerve-wracking this is for Zhongli, someone needs to have a clear mind.

Childe’s head leaned back against the pillow, eyes foggy as his body strained. He hissed out a breath, his chest heaving despite Madam Ping and Zhongli’s instructions on proper breathing. Childe found it difficult to breathe, the seconds ticking away until he managed to somewhat find a steady rhythm. "M-Morax..."

Zhongli brought the other’s hand up, the back of Childe’s hand tenderly resting against Zhongli’s forehead. “We’ve waited for this moment for so long... I know you can do it.”

Childe wordlessly gave a weak squeeze to Zhongli’s hand. Zhongli returned it, the emotions within his heart continuing to stir like a wild storm. 

The cozy building filled with an abrupt sputtering and wheeze. The short figure thumped his fist against his chest as he coughed. By the time he recovered, he was nearly falling out of his seat with how far he leaned. The Traveler and Paimon backed away to regain some personal space.

“It’s happening!?”

From behind a bar, a certain winery owner sighed with defeat. Diluc began to gather some cleaning supplies, his expression one of disgust at the spat-out wine slowly staining the polished wood. Venti didn’t even give it a second glance, eyes wide as he practically shook the Traveler. “Is everything going well!? What happened!?”

Needless to say, seeing Venti behave in such a manner was startling and a bit unsettling. The Traveler and Paimon wondered how close Venti is to the gods of Liyue. But now wasn’t the time for that. In fact, they should probably take this somewhere less populated…

“The Fatui woke Osial and took their Gnoses. Everything in Liyue is fine now, but Childe suddenly…”

In record time, Venti had denied using the Traveler’s method of waypoints and was instead traveling via the wind. His mind raced as he became one with the Anemo element, his being soaring toward Liyue like a drifting spirit trying to outrun a shooting star. He may have lost his Gnosis, but he’s still a wind spirit at heart, or…well…in spirit.

To think of all times and days this could occur… Maybe Venti should actually get a serious baby gift or something. He can’t even imagine what this must be like for them.

As Venti reformed without catching anyone’s attention, he began to hurry down the streets to the building Paimon had mentioned in passing. 

“I hope all is well…”

Even he is getting stressed and he’s not the one who got knocked up! He’ll seriously need a drink of the best wine there is once this is over.

“I wonder what kind of kid you’ll have if they’re being born in this chaos.”

The door suddenly creaked as it opened, abruptly breaking the quiet atmosphere. Out of pure instinct, he tightened the grip on his polearm before aiming it at whoever was trying to enter the building. Xiao blinked, his vision registering a startled group of three.

Xiao allowed himself to relax for a moment, returning his weapon to his side. “Traveler, Paimon, you’re back.” His sharp gaze then landed on a certain bard. “So, they left to get you.”

Venti gave a small, but friendly wave in response. “Been a while, hasn’t it?”

“Considering how long you fall asleep for, then yes, it’s been a while.” At Xiao’s words, all Venti could do was offer a sheepish and apologetic expression.

Paimon’s eyes darted between the two before slowly speaking up. “So…you two know each other?”

Xiao’s polearm vanished as the Adeptus crossed his arms. “You could say that.”

All Venti did was chuckle at the reply. “Oh, we know each other, alright! Unfortunately, I didn’t come to visit for a flute session, so we’ll have to reschedule.”

The Traveler blinked. “Flute session? I thought you played the lyre?”

Blonde locks swayed and the Traveler was forced to squint their eyes as a playful gust of Anemo was blown at them. Venti simply wagged a finger as if lightly scolding the blonde. “And who said I can only play one instrument? Besides,” Venti spoke with a growing grin, turning to Xiao. “It’s alright. We can always reschedule since you’ve got a little brother on the way.”

There was a choked sound from Xiao, the Adeptus shooting a glare at the bard. “E-Excuse me?”

All Venti did was shrug innocently. “Well, I was under the assumption that those gods of yours adopted you, no?”

“I think I’d recall such an occasion, so no!”

There was a hum before Venti dramatically leaned toward the Traveler and Paimon, speaking in a mock whisper Xiao could hear. “I think he’s in denial.”

“ Barbatos…!” Xiao hissed.

Venti gave the traveling pair a glance that seemed to say “look at what I’m dealing with” before sighing. He then turned back to Xiao, eyeing the door to the next room. The light-hearted aura faded a bit, concern visible. “...How are they?”

With a deep breath, Xiao calmed himself at the reminder. “I’m not sure. It’s been at least over ten minutes since I’ve heard anything. Ganyu is making sure this area stays clear of mortals and Madam Ping is assisting since Morax isn’t in the best state.”

“What about the other Adepti? I heard that Osial woke up.”

“They left after he was put back down,” Xiao explained. “They don’t know.”

“I see…”

The Traveler glanced around, slightly squirming in place due to the awkward atmosphere. They were about to speak up until the soft slide of a door interrupted. Every pair of eyes darted over, all spotting Madam Ping standing in the doorway.

Xiao was the first to break the silence. “Well?”

The tension in the air seemed to fade when they all received a tired, but relieved smile from the woman. “I believe we’ve made it through. While there may be complications due to Ajax’s Gnosis being taken, the delivery seems to have gone well.”

“Are visitors allowed?” Venti questioned and Madam Ping’s expression softened at the bard’s presence. 

“Ah, Barbatos, of course. Though, I suppose I shouldn’t be too surprised to see you here in Liyue for such an occasion. You ought to visit more often, especially now that they have a child to take care of.”

“Ehehe…”

Madam Ping lightly shook her head before moving aside. “You can go on ahead, just be quiet, please. Though I doubt they’ll wake up easily after everything.”

Everyone did not hesitate to agree, the anticipation growing.

When they finally made their way into the room, they were greeted by a sleeping Childe and Zhongli. Blankets and sheets were wrinkled and bunched up as they rested in a makeshift nest. Zhongli’s head was tilted as it rested on top of Childe’s, arms holding the younger god close with a chair abandoned to the side. Childe was out like a light, the signs of exhaustion much more evident compared to Zhongli. Yet, all eyes focused on the object cradled close to Childe’s chest.

The egg was a dark shade, one comparable to the earth with silver and gold-like markings that seemed to highlight it. In a way, it was much like a fascinating variant of molten stone.

Paimon hovered over with wide eyes, awe in her tone. “Wow, that’s pretty… I wonder what’ll hatch.”

The Traveler shrugged. “Probably a baby dragon, right? I mean, they can become dragons.” 

Xiao’s shoulders slumped, the stress and tension from all the restless hours finally releasing. “At least they’re alright.”

Venti hummed, almost tempted to poke the egg, but knowing better. “I guess we can go deliver the good news to the other Adepti? I mean, we might as well since they’re gonna be asleep for a while.”

Seeing as there was not much else to do, they left the gods to rest in peace while Xiao stayed behind just in case.

“Wanna hold them?”

“I don’t need to.”

Xiao opened his eyes, feeling his hair being ruffled. With a slightly annoyed huff, he lightly guided Childe’s hand away. “I am just glad everything is alright.”

Venti chuckled before flicking Childe and Zhongli on the forehead. The two flinched at the gesture as they stared. “Geez, you guys had it rough over here. Here I thought the stealing of my Gnosis was dramatic!”

Nudging Childe with his elbow, Venti gave a bright grin. “I wasn’t even here for all of this and you guys made me worry! You owe me lots of drinks and they better be good quality!”

Childe lightly pulled on one of Venti’s braids. “Yeah, yeah, I’ll owe you a drink.”

The Traveler was slightly leaned over as they examined the egg. The blonde pulled their gaze away to look at Childe, a faint frown on their face. “How’s your eye?” 

The eye that was once a brilliant Cor Lapis much like Zhongli’s was now pale and dull. It was a stark contrast compared to his other which still shined a brilliant noctilucous jade. 

“Ah, that…” Zhongli gently swept aside some loose strands of hair that blocked Childe’s vision. “The pain seems to have subsided, but it seems that it can’t sustain its function without the energy from the Gnosis.”

Paimon huffed, not understanding the wording. “What’s that supposed to mean?” 

Childe shrugged. “Basically, I can’t see out of it. It got affected by the Gnosis which I had for centuries. Taking it away is like turning off the lights.”

Xiao released a sigh. “Will you be able to manage?” 

At Childe’s casual wave of dismissal, some of the worry in the air dissipated. “It’ll take some getting used to, but I’ll live.”

“Considering the other unfortunate possibilities, this is a blessing,” Zhongli mumbled, lightly nuzzling Childe’s hair. 

“Other than that, I kinda just reverted to how I was before I got the Gnosis,” Childe added. “So, yeah… It could’ve been a lot worse.”

“Then, what about the Rite of Descension?” The Traveler pondered. “It’s…well… It was supposed to be today sometime at noon. And what about your other duties as Archons?” 

Childe and Zhongli shared a look before giving helpless expressions. The rest could only stare at the exchange.

Zhongli rested his chin in his hand as he thought about it. “Hm, that will be a problem. While I may not have my Gnosis, I am not completely powerless since I am the “Prime of the Adepti”. And Childe has been a minor god for as long as I can remember...”

“So,” Zhongli spoke. “I suppose that means we have no plan.”

No one was sure how to respond. 

Holding his head in his hand, Xiao made his way out of the building with barely contained exasperation. “I’ll see if Ganyu can pull some strings.” 

Venti trailed after the Adeptus, laughter flowing from the room and outside. “Let me help! I can think of some things!”

Childe leaned over to Zhongli, voice quiet. “Should we really leave it up to them? Or, well, Venti?”

Zhongli turned to face the Traveler and Paimon. “Would you mind going after them to make sure nothing unfortunate occurs?”

Paimon crossed her arms at the errand request while the Traveler simply accepted their fate, a thumbs up given in response.

Chapter Text

There was a time where he was a more wild force of nature. It was an age where a drop of blood fell into the water, the entire sea dying crimson. Yet, that “youth” of his had gone and he had grown. He would never be known for gentleness, but he had control and a newfound sense of duty. He had responsibilities and he would carry them out with diligence. 

Morax never cared much for the fleeting pleasantries and lives of the beings below him. At least, until he met the God of Dust. 

The woman baffled him and was wise beyond her years. However, he could only observe as she walked among the mortals and partook in their culture. He noticed how her expressions changed in a way not too different from mortals. It didn’t take long before Morax had learned of her desire to bond with mortals and learn their ways. In extension, she had tried to pass those teachings onto him.

“What a waste of time.” He had thought, never entertaining the idea. What use would it be? He would never be a mortal and thus there was no need to learn how to be a mortal. 

Yet, despite his distaste, Guizhong’s proposition was mutually beneficial. Thus, their odd assembly was born. Sometimes, he wondered why he even bothered even as she pestered him with knowledge he did not see a purpose for. But with time and persistence, even the sharpest of edges will wear down.

Even a heart of stone is capable of softening even if it takes thousands of years.

As the many moons passed, Morax had found himself growing accustomed to Guizhong’s presence and the words she wished to express. Perhaps there were days where he listened with interest or days where he listened with his usual indifference. Regardless, her voice became intertwined in his life and the thought of never hearing such a sound seemed, dare he say, unsettling. It was like background noise and having it not there made the world feel unnatural.

Either way, for the longest time, it was simply Morax and Guizhong. Though she would often drag Morax into many scenarios — typically they were her attempts to teach him the ways of mortals. However, not many lessons were successful, much to her misfortune. But Morax would try and sometimes he simply lacked the patience for it. That was alright. Guizhong always seemed to accept it and bounce right back.

It only served to further confuse Morax. Even in the present day, he would struggle to understand her. And maybe that was okay because, back then, it was simply them. Guizhong and Morax, Morax and Guizhong. Perhaps they are an unlikely duo, but they managed to make their alliance work. 

However, that awkward harmony between the two gods would be broken by a third. And as Morax gazed upon the mysterious Ajax and the wise Guizhong laughing together under the morning light, shimmering dew dripping from the leaves and grass, he could only stare or focus his attention elsewhere.

Their gentle sounds filled the peaceful air, yet Morax could only observe how easily Ajax connected with Guizhong. 

Yet, it was likely that Ajax used to be a mortal so it was obvious that the unknown immortal would have a natural advantage in such knowledge.

Despite that fact, Morax couldn’t escape the odd sensation it gave him. It was almost as if he had consumed a bitter fruit.

For obvious reasons, the Rite of Descension could not be carried out. This had left the citizens to refocus their attention on rebuilding the city and recovering from the destruction the awakened Osial had caused. Despite this, the more devout followers of Morax and Ajax were hesitant to dismiss the Rite so easily. It took the words of the Tianquan, Ningguang, and her aides, Keqing and Ganyu, to alleviate the uncertainty.

“Our gods have relayed a message to me from within a dream following the night of Osial’s awakening. They will be unable to descend for the Rite. The destruction that night has left them vigilant and, as important as Morax’s predictions and Ajax’s blessings are, we must respect their duty and will to focus on our safety.”

It wasn’t entirely a lie. Ningguang had spoken to Liyue's Archons when she had finally allowed herself to rest. And, due to her position and her words, the citizens of Liyue had to trust in her. The support of Keqing and the Adeptus, Ganyu, only further convinced the people. There were even rumors that another Adepti or more had spoken up, but only a select few would be able to tell if it was true or not. Either way, the day of the Rite of Descension had passed and the festival of the Lantern Rite was approaching. After everything that had occurred this year, more people than usual were looking forward to such a cheerful event. At this point, Liyue Harbor needed something to lift their spirits.

But for people like Zhongli and Childe, this odd “break” felt like some sort of maternity leave — something Childe found humorous. Yet, following this peaceful aftermath, one can find themselves lingering in thought more than they’d like to. Perhaps that is what led him to this moment.

“Traveler, I hope you do not mind assisting me. Normally, I would have had Childe help me, but that is not possible at the moment.”

Paimon and the Traveler shared a confused glance, the floating companion squinting her eyes at Zhongli as she spoke. “So, what do we need all those things for? Is this some sort of ritual?”

“It is for a funeral,” Zhongli admitted, the traveling pair going silent in response. “One that is…long overdue.”

Paimon hovered quietly, mentally deciding how to word her next sentence. “O-Oh, well, we’d be happy to help!”

“I remember someone selling noctilucous jade and I think I know where custom kites can be bought,” The blonde hummed thoughtfully. “But I don’t know about the perfumes…”

Zhongli nodded. “You may leave that to me. I know where we may acquire them.” He seemed to hesitate before continuing to speak. “I must thank you for this. It means a lot to us.”

The Traveler bit their lower lip, a question nagging them. “If I may… Who’s…?”

Those amber eyes reflected something old and ancient, as well as a lingering sorrow that could not completely fade. They were the eyes of someone worn down by time.

“She was a dear friend to us both before the Archon War took place.” Zhongli sighed softly and quietly. “It had come to my attention that we… never properly “sent her off” even after all these years.”

Paimon and the Traveler silently chose not to ask any more personal questions. Both of them were observant enough to read the atmosphere.

“Do you not have better things to do?”

It was not the first, nor the last time Morax had criticized Ajax. Guizhong had noticed the odd pattern but had not spoken, a part of her hoping Morax would grow to favor Ajax given some time. Besides, she had only her own suspicions on what was troubling Morax. She had wanted to wait and see if things could be resolved without her interference.

Alas, that was not the case and the God of Dust had confronted Morax in private. It was then that Morax was enlightened about something new.

“You’re jealous, are you not?” Is what she had stated and Morax could only deny it.

He? Jealous? It was preposterous. What would a god need to be jealous of? He was above such a trivial thing that mortals trouble themselves over. He was not jealous at all. He was simply acknowledging how much of a distraction Ajax is on their responsibilities and the strange immortal’s own uselessness. 

Morax’s expression was unmoving. “All he ever does is entertain the mortal children. He merely spends his days playing as if he is a mortal without a care in the world.”

“He spreads joy to our people, does he not?” Guizhong had countered. “Even if we are still helping him discover what and who he is, the small things he has accomplished possesses meaning.”

“What meaning is there if your presence before his arrival was enough to ease the hearts of our people? He has yet to find his place.”

Guizhong had only gazed upon him with an odd look. Morax was unsure of what it was. Perhaps it was sorrow, but not quite. She was not confused by Morax’s thoughts, yet there was something akin to disappointment and understanding in her eyes.

“He has much to teach, though it may not be what you expect. Perhaps, you could learn some things from him.”

Morax still did not particularly care. 

“What knowledge could he hold that even you do not know? Anything he may have to teach, I am sure you could have easily discovered yourself.”

All Guizhong could do was sigh, knowing that Morax was just as stubborn and unshakeable as the stones he creates and the contracts he signs. 

“Could you give him a chance, at least?”

Morax gave a quiet huff, never giving a direct answer before he had departed. Guizhong could only hope for the best, knowing how tense the situation was. Morax was cold toward Ajax and that caused Ajax to be too nervous to get closer to Morax. 

Guizhong could only wonder what she could do to help. And maybe, she wouldn’t need to.

Childe didn’t expect visitors, but at least Zhongli had the foresight to tell him about the tiring shopping spree earlier that day. By the time Zhongli and the traveling pair made it to the house, Childe already had dinner prepared for everyone. 

He couldn’t help but chuckle at how Paimon seemed to instantly perk up at the sight and smell of food. Yet, as much as he wanted to eat at the table with the other’s, the need to be by the egg’s side was stronger. Fortunately, the Traveler suggested that they all eat dinner in the bedroom so Childe wouldn’t have to hang out alone. It actually turned out to be a wonderful idea and it’s what led to Childe resting on the bed, which was more like a nest, while everyone else found somewhere to sit. Zhongli had freed his draconic tail, the appendage managing to lightly curl around Childe’s waist. It wasn’t long until Childe put together the pieces of their outing as Paimon cheerfully recounted the trio’s day. 

“It’s for her, isn’t it?” Childe spoke softly, a gentle and melancholy smile on his face. Zhongli nodded solemnly. 

“Yes. I thought it was about time we should. We never did get to it…”

Childe’s eyes seemed to light up with a minor spark of amusement. “I doubt she’d be mad at us for it. I’m sure she’s just glad we’ve made it this far. A-Anyway,” He then faced the Traveler and Paimon gratefully. “Thanks for helping out. I know you’ve already done a lot here, but—”

The blonde shook their head dismissively, causing Childe to pause. “It’s fine. We don’t mind helping, right Paimon?”

The floating companion took a moment to respond, her cheeks puffy with food until she finally swallowed. “Uh, yup! That’s right! Though…I wouldn’t mind having more of Childe’s cooking as a reward.”

Childe’s smile grew, the atmosphere turning more lighthearted. He gestured toward the door. “If you want seconds, there’s enough sitting downstairs.”

Before anyone could blink, Paimon’s eyes sparkled as she exclaimed a hurried “be right back!” before flying out the door to the kitchen. The Traveler could only shake their head at her antics with fondness and exasperation. 

“Paimon being Paimon again…” The blonde shrugged to themselves. 

“She’s certainly something, that’s for sure,” Childe commented. “Never seen someone like her before…”

Zhongli hummed in thought. “How did you meet Paimon?”

The Traveler seemed to give a helpless shrug as they responded. “I fished her out of the water.”

The two Archons could only stare at her incredulously until Paimon came flying back into the room with a full plate. I was a wonder how her small form managed to carry it all.

Paimon hovered in place as she took in the stares and silence. Her expression seemed judgemental as she met everyone’s gazes. “Okay… Did I miss something?”

Childe leaned toward the Traveler in a mock whisper. “Think you could tell me how to fish for one? I’m sure Xiangling would love to know.”

The Traveler couldn’t help, but laugh while Paimon angrily squeaked with confusion. 

“What are you guys talking about!? Is this about me!?” She directed her childish glare toward the amused Traveler. “Hey, quit laughing and answer me!”

“Pfft, why do you think I call her “emergency food”?”

“We discussed this! I’m. Not. Food!”

Zhongli observed the interaction with a chuckle, listening as Childe continued to add fuel to the fire. 

Until that day, Ajax had never experienced loss. At least, not that he could recall. It was an accident really, one of the children he spent time with drowning in a river. The sorrow was expected from him, yet not even Guizhong was prepared for the pure grief that overtook Ajax. 

Ajax had rambled through sobs about things Guizhong and Morax couldn’t understand. The young immortal spoke of final thoughts and feelings that were not his own. It wasn’t until later that Guizhong wondered if Ajax’s connection toward young mortals was more than just playing around. She wondered if a part of Ajax’s role had been discovered.

But it wasn’t the time. Not when Ajax was seemingly inconsolable for reasons that even Ajax didn’t understand. Morax’s harsh words did not alleviate the situation and Guizhong had given the older god a rare, sharp glare. 

“It was only the life of a single mortal. While it is unfortunate, all mortals will die one day. Why do you let yourself succumb from a single passing?”

For the first time, Ajax had yelled with anger toward the older god that he always seemed to fear and hesitate around. The younger god had left to be alone before Guizhong could attempt to console him. 

“How could you say that!?” Ajax had shouted without fear, his face burning with tears and frustration as he stared at Morax’s cold amber eyes. “Why are they so replaceable to you!? Even if their numbers can be fixed, their individual selves can’t!”

At the time, Morax was unsure of how he felt. His logic was sound and it was not his fault Ajax was so emotional about the situation, yet something about the younger god’s breakdown left a sense of unease. Yet, he did not feel truly guilty for what he said. The only thing that did get to him was the scathing disappointment on Guizhong’s face. He can’t recall if she ever looked him that way before. 

It was her demanding that he apologize that he felt the true sparks of regret. He never wished to bring such feelings upon her and he never thought he’d be the one to upset her like this.

And so, he would spend minutes searching for where Ajax had gone.

Incense permeated the air, the perfume tickling the senses. Under the moonlight, the petals of the glaze lilies seemed to gain a faint glow. Nearby, the customized kites rested as well as the noctilucous jade. All around, the windows of nearby buildings and lanterns glowed. Childe and Zhongli stood nearby as they carried out the rite, the air silent and calm. With a supportive presence, the Traveler and Paimon observed the proceedings, quietly wondering about the dear friend of the Archons.

In the dark of the night, barely anyone was outside which made it a perfect setting for being alone. 

Childe tightened his hold around the bundle of blankets that warmed and concealed the egg from sight, a light frown remaining on his face. Next to him, Zhongli gently squeezed the other’s hand despite paying his own respects.

Creating a private ceremony was the best option, neither of them sure they could’ve gone to Ningguang, Keqing, or Ganyu to arrange a more public one during the daylight hours. For Zhongli and Childe, this was something personal involving them both. The possibility of a random audience would only bring a disturbance.

“Guizhong…are you proud of how far we’ve come?”

Neither spoke as they sat before the field of glaze lilies. Ajax didn’t wish to speak and Morax was unsure of what he was supposed to say. Guizhong had told him to apologize, but Morax is aware that things are never always so simple.

“...I believe I owe you an apology.”

Ajax refused to look at Morax. The older god was unsure of how to continue. Time seemed to tick away until the younger finally spoke, his voice quiet and hoarse. 

“How can you have someone like Guizhong by your side and say such a careless thing?”

Morax did not understand what the other had meant. “What do you mean by that?”

“We may be immortal, but we’re still alive. Can’t gods die too?”

Morax’s eyes had narrowed as if offended by the idea. “As if gods would easily succumb to something such as “death”. We are not as fragile and limited like mortal beings.”

Ajax had glanced at the older god with a slight glare. “If Guizhong is special to you then the lives of other beings can be special too. They may die, but don’t speak about them as if they’re meaningless.”

Morax was unsure of why he had spoken so bitterly and off-topic. “If Guizhong is special to you, I would recommend causing less trouble for her.”

Ajax had stared. “E-Excuse me…!?”

Morax could only stare coldly, the discomfort Guizhong and Ajax’s interactions caused now beginning to burn without his say. “We were fine before your arrival. Now, your troublesome feelings are disturbing the order and routine we’ve established.”

The younger was struck silent before chuckling lowly. It was difficult to tell if he was amused or not. “You’re… The God of Contracts is fucking jealous…! That’s what all of this is about, isn’t it?!”

There, that word had appeared once again. “I am not “jealous”. I am simply wise enough to recognize an obstacle.”

Ajax seemed to calm down, his expression indifferent as he stared at Morax in a different light. “You…You’re upset that I get along with her so well. I’m not surprised considering how alike you are to the rocks you create.”

“You—“

“Guizhong is right, y-you really don’t understand these things.”

Morax was quiet.

“If you want to not feel like some sort of third-wheel, then how about you try to understand something for once? You know…like the whole mortal stuff Guizhong has been trying to teach you?”

“As if you could teach me any better than her.”

Ajax’s tear-stained eyes seemed to glint with something bolder and challenging. Morax internally found himself surprised by the unexpected reaction. Perhaps there is more to Ajax than he thought… 

Even though he listens to Guizhong so much, perhaps he wasn’t listening enough. Ah, how could he have doubted her so readily?

Ajax seemed to scoff softly, using his sleeves to wipe his face. “W-Wanna bet?”

“In that case, shall we make a contract?”

“Ha… I guess that’s the closest to a bet that I’ll get from you.”

With nothing more to say, the lighthearted atmosphere fell away into a solemn silence. They sat there together, words fading away. Morax glanced at the other, a new type of unease settling within him. Without much thought, he reached out and placed a hand on Ajax’s shoulder. The comforting action was awkward and full of uncertainty, yet all Ajax did was give Morax a momentary glance. 

It appeared that Ajax took the attempt for what it was, never commenting on it as he was once again left alone to his thoughts and the grief that was foreign to him. Morax simply remained there, his head turned away to offer a semblance of privacy, yet hesitant to just leave. Maybe it was due to Guizhong’s disappointment that made him feel obligated to stay, or maybe he actually possessed a desire to remain there. Morax was unsure.

The rift between them did not magically repair itself, the road a long one ahead of them. It wouldn’t be until another thousand years that things would begin to finally settle and close. At that moment, some tensions still lingered and some issues remained unspoken. But, for now, that gap had begun to close by a fraction and Ajax had made it a goal to keep breaking Morax’s expectations.

At some point, Morax had grown fond of the mystery that is Ajax, the younger god’s antics creeping into his life much like Guizhong and her desire to learn about mortals.

“You are not what I expected.” Morax had thought once and, this time, he did not view it in a negative light, but a welcome one.

It was only a matter of time before the fields of glaze lilies would prosper, a set of three smiles settling among them instead of two.

Even a heart of stone shall soften in time. Even if it takes thousands of years to do so.

Chapter Text

The wood’s bark pressed against sewn gloves, the warm article of clothing protecting the owner’s hands from the air’s chill. From behind, there was the soft crunch of snow as youthful voices were trying to remain silent. The one carrying the chopped wood knew who was following him but pretended to not notice as he continued forth. Somehow, he had managed to keep his smile hidden.

Before he knew it, there was a shouted signal and he had found himself being tackled by children dressed in equally warm clothes. The cold air fogged as cheerful laughter rang out.

Ajax found himself unable to be upset even though the wood he was carrying had flung out of his hold. Instead, he managed to flip around onto his back, the kids giggling and squeaking at his sudden movements that overpowered them. He sat up before lunging at his younger siblings with a bright grin. Tonia failed to get away in time and he took the chance to ruffle the young girl’s hair. She squawked at the treatment, struggling to worm her way out of his grip. 

“H-Hey!”

Ajax could only chuckle at her irritation but eventually stopped. The moment his hug loosened, she practically leaped away as if he would try to trap her again. With a minor sigh, Ajax stood and dusted the snow off of him, addressing his siblings as he did so. “Alright, alright, what are you up to now?”

“Teucer thought it would be a good idea to sneak up on you,” Anthon spoke only for the other boy to whip around and point at Anthon accusingly. 

“I never said that! Ajax, it was Anthon’s idea, not mine!”

“It wasn’t me!”

Ajax lightly shook his head, gently placing his hands on their shoulders before a pretty argument could break out. “Well, it was a pretty good tackle. Though, all of you could work on being a bit more sneaky about it. Anyone would be able to hear you miles away.”

From a distance, the four could hear the door to their home creak open, their mother’s voice calling out to them. “Ajax, are you encouraging them to do something ridiculous again!?”

“Nope!” 

Even from here, Ajax could see the suspicion in her eyes. 

“I saw what happened through the window. You better not be riling them up to do those sudden sneak attacks. Especially the boys!”

Ajax could only give a hopeless shrug. “Hey, they can knock me down pretty good. Who knows, it might be a special talent for hunting once they’re older!”

Their mother could only facepalm, her mind imagining all sorts of scenarios her energetic children could get into. Considering how Ajax seems to accidentally, and purposely, encourage such things, the chance of there being no scheming in the future was slim. 

She would rather keep her hair color as long as possible, thank you very much.

“Please just hurry and bring the firewood. I don’t want you all staying out in the cold for too long. Make sure you wipe all that snow stuck to you as well!”

“Got it!” Ajax answered, his younger siblings already collecting the wood he dropped. “And don’t worry, I’ll make sure not to track too much snow in the house!”

“Well, what do you think?” 

As Zhongli’s gaze glanced up, he was instantly met with the excitement that sparked within Childe’s eyes. The younger man was looking at him expectantly, unable to resist smiling. Zhongli softly huffed with amusement as he finally answered. “I think it’s wonderful.”

The Geo Archon’s hand gently rested against the egg’s surface, and, some moments later, yet another faint thump could be felt from that shell. Zhongli couldn’t help but feel awe – the god was completely fascinated. There was no doubt about it. 

Childe reached over, gently shoving aside Zhongli’s wagging tail. “Hey, watch it. I arranged those pillows like that for a reason, so don’t go knocking them around.”

“Ah, my apologies.” Yes, he did not want to see how much of a funk Childe could fall into if their nest got disorderly. Zhongli knew he himself was rather particular about things. Childe was normally more flexible. However, with the oncoming addition to their lives, it was clear that Childe was getting picky – very picky. 

Perhaps, the dragonic nature wasn’t helping too much in that regard. At this point, their bed can’t even be seen as a bed anymore with how many pillows and blankets were piled on. 

“It’s fine. Just,” Childe faintly frowned in thought, slightly fluffing up those pillows Zhongli’s tail had nearly knocked over, before finally relaxing again. “Be careful.”

“Of course.”

Childe emitted a pleased hum at the response, going silent for a bit before speaking up thoughtfully. “...I should probably finish making that list of supplies. We don’t know what they’ll look like when they hatch, but there should be some basic things that we can get that will help us. Should we hold off on clothes until we know what form they take?”

“That is probably for the best in the case normal human clothing doesn’t work out.”

“Ah, right, right. Hm…then how about…”

If the discussion had gone on for minutes to hours, Zhongli certainly wouldn’t be able to tell as he lost track. At some point, he doubted he was paying too much attention as he assisted in clearing up and organizing Childe’s thoughts. Simply observing how passionate and excited the younger god was being was an endearing sight all by itself. Sometimes, it made Zhongli realize that it was those little traits that made it clear why Childe could understand and bond with children so well. 

In a way, Childe had always been like that, hasn’t he. Zhongli sometimes wondered where the other got it from.

He was interrupted from his musings with a small grunt as a pillow smacked him in the face. 

“Zhongli, did you zone out? That’s unlike you.”

“My apologies. I didn’t mean to.” Zhongli chuckled softly. “You were speaking about stuffed toys, correct?”

“Yup! Regardless if they’ll turn out to be a little dragon or human, getting them something to hold onto, that isn’t just us, would be good for them. So, I was thinking maybe…”

“Hey, what’s going on? Did something happen?” 

Ajax had turned the corner into the kitchen with a faint frown, having walked past a silently fuming Tonia some moments ago. Naturally, he was concerned. 

His mother looked to him as he joined her at the sink, Ajax reaching to pick up a dirty dish, soap, and a rag. The woman could only give him a tired sigh. “She got into an argument with one of the boys. I tried talking to her, but she clearly needed some time to cool off.”

“Do you know what she got upset about?”

“I think Anthon took something of hers to play a game with and lost it in the snow.”

“I see…”

Ajax silently continued to help his mother clean the dishes, becoming immersed in his own thoughts of the situation. He was snapped out of it when he felt his mother gently shaking his shoulder. “Hm?”

“...You’re going to try and find a way to get them to make up, aren’t you.” It was rhetorical as she spoke, her eyes twinkling with a knowing gaze. 

Ajax couldn’t fight the smile that formed on his lips. “Of course, I am. Was there any doubt? Sure, sibling squabbles happen all the time, especially with the younger ones. But, in the end, we’re all family who love each other and we all know it. It’s best to try and find a way to resolve it before it can fester too much.” His smiled faintly faltered as he thought of himself when he was younger and got upset. With older siblings and him being the youngest, he was normally more quiet and reserved. But sometimes those bottled up feelings he’d get would reach a point where he couldn’t hold the storm back. “...I don’t want them saying anything they may regret and be unable to take back.”

“Just make sure not to rush it. Trying to resolve things too soon or too late can make things worse.”

“Aw, come on. Have a little more faith in me.”

“I have plenty of faith in you, but can’t a mother still be a little worried? No one sensible would want their kids to keep fighting after all.”

“I’d prefer it if you didn’t have to worry at all.”

His mother had laughed softly. “As long as you are all still around, I will always worry. But, at least you have toned down from when you were a child. Timid as you were, you knew how to get around without anyone noticing.”

“H-Hey, now…! I wasn’t that bad!”

Hours later, there’d be an eventual forgiveness between those younger siblings as Ajax observed with relief. And perhaps, in the process, he had gotten covered head to toe with snow at some point. And perhaps, as a result of it, he had also found a shiny pendant which he gave to Anthon, so that it could be returned to their sister. 

Yes, living with so many siblings didn’t always mean sunshine and rainbows. There were always those arguments that would occur and those moments of childish anger. But his family meant to world to Ajax, and he meant the world to them. They meant the world to each other. 

His peaceful sleep was interrupted by a sudden shaking, the hands grasping and shoving at his form. It was certainly a disrupting awakening. 

“Hey, Morax! Wake up! Don’t be sleepy now!”

“Hn…?” Zhongli softly groaned, eyes opening as he squinted. The room bathed in the night’s darkness was slightly waved away by lit candles. “Childe?”

Before he knew it, Zhongli found himself getting pulled upright by Childe who was practically radiating excited and nervous energy. It left the older god to take a moment to become more aware before slightly frowning at the other with worry and alarm. “Is everything alright? Did something bad happen?”

Before Childe could give a response, the natural silence of the room filled with a quiet noise. Zhongli’s gaze followed the sound to the source before spotting the egg that was bundled up. His eyes widened before his head whipped over to look at Childe. “Is it-”

Childe nodded quickly, an anxious whine barely escaping past sealed lips as if him making too much noise would somehow cause fright and prevent the egg from continuing its hatching process. 

Zhongli had shifted in his spot in their nest as he moved himself closer to Childe’s side, a hand comfortingly rubbing the other’s back as they both waited with great attention. 

“ Move!”

His hands collided with a pair of smaller bodies as he shoved Teucer and Anthon out of the way. His throat stung with a spark of pain as his voice had strained. No sooner after making sure his younger brothers were safe, did the body of something else slam into his side. 

Ajax had heard panicked cries – one of them he was certain was a scream. But that thought was literally knocked away as he gave a pained gasp, his body harshly landing against solid ice, the weight of the monster above him crushing him with its weight. 

There was a split second where time felt as if it froze before the ice crackled and shattered underneath him. Ajax’s body suddenly felt all too cold and all too burning hot at once, everything becoming heavier – so much heavier. He had gasped, only to choke as the world around him no longer consisted of the air he needed. 

Icy, frigid water filled his lungs as claws tore through his heavy layers to pierce his flesh. Ajax tried to make sense of everything that had happened far too quick as he tried to fight back – tried to go up, up, up . His hands gripped and shoved, his legs flailed to try and propel him where he wanted to go and where he needed to go. 

His sight was blurry, the light from those snowy clouds in the sky feeling more distant. 

“Have to make it back… No way…am I…” There was an unheard and muted growl of defiance, Ajax refusing to give in. He tried to kick his own shoes off, but the laces were tied too securely. He couldn’t force the boots off without his hands. 

(He wanted to put a smile back on those young faces that were surely distraught right now. He wanted to look his mother in the eyes and tell her there’s no need to worry especially with him around to help. He wanted to see his ill father and tell him about the great fun he had playing with his siblings out in the snow. He wanted to see those kids in the main square of his quiet village who’d run up to him asking to play or tell a story. He wanted…)

There was something else in the water, a color that shouldn’t belong. It thinned as it blended with the surrounding water, making it appear as if there were purple fumes swirling about. 

A warm, damp towel pulled away after gently cleaning up. Cradled carefully in Childe’s arms was a mostly human child wrapped in another comfortable and fuzzy towel. The tiny dragonic tail swayed, signs of scales dotting the child’s cheeks and shoulders. The once-loud cries had settled within minutes, leaving only tired little croaks and whines. 

“Want to hold him?” Childe smiled softly as he finally looked up, Zhongli scooting closer to get a better look. The older god emitted a soft sound that was almost like an approving rumble from his throat. It made Childe’s smile grow with amusement as he wordlessly transferred the child into Zhongli’s arms. 

“Support the head like we learned.”

“Mhm. I remember.”

There was clear nervousness when handling the newborn, but there was also an undeniable happiness. It was certainly a night they would both remember for ages. And they knew that they better get what time they have to themselves with the child while they could before the others found out and started to shower them with more gifts and visits. 

Noctilucous jade, blue eyes slowly fluttered open, squinting at the bright skies. A butterfly’s wings shone with color under the daylight from where it was perched by his head. 

He breathed – it fluttered away, startled by the action. 

He carefully sat up, glancing around with zero recognition of where he was. He couldn’t recall how he had ended up resting in this field, but…there was a sense of loneliness that lingered in his chest. It felt as if he shouldn’t be here all alone, but he knew of no one. 

He soon stood up, his lone shadow casting upon the ground. He knew he would need to start moving if he ever hoped for answers in his, unnervingly, blank mind. And so, he began to wander this foreign land. 

Thousands of years ago within the land of Liyue, a new life had been born anew to experience the joys of being brought into the world once more…

Chapter Text

“It’s strange, isn’t it. Mortals simply live their lives day in and day out. Once something or someone new intersects with their life, be it by fate or by chance, they can later find that they can’t imagine their lives without that someone or something. Meanwhile, they usually were able to do so previously just fine.” There was a small smile on her features, eyes twinkling with some amusement. “You know…”

“It kind of reminds me of us before we met.” 

“I appreciate you assisting me despite how busy you’ve been lately.”

“I wanted to pay a visit too. So, it’s no problem.”

Inhaling deeply and exhaling slowly, Zhongli opened his eyes as he glanced at the offering of wine left before a dear friend’s grave. Childe was unable to tag along, leaving Zhongli to give the other’s offering in his place. He didn’t mind as he understood that things have been busy lately, especially with the Lantern Rite. 

His gaze wandered from the ground, tracing the lines, dips, and curves of a large tree. Standing beside him in a respectful silence was the Traveler as they waited patiently. 

A few moments later, and Zhongli finally pulled his attention away. “...We may go now.”

The Traveler nodded in acknowledgement. “Are there others you want to visit?”

“...If you would care to come with me for a few more stops before we head back.”

“Of course.”

“...And what of the cases in which that something or someone intersecting with their life isn’t a good thing? Is it not best that they never intersected at all? In such a scenario, it would be best to go back to living without that something or someone.”

There was a thoughtful hum from her. “Indeed. Not everything encountered in life is a good thing. And even if it leaves, the scars from such experiences can still remain bound to a person no matter how faint or vivid those scars may be. However…” 

She glanced at her reflection within her cup of tea. “It doesn’t always mean it’s going to be that way. You may never know what good opportunities may be missed, even if there is always the risk of being hurt.”

The rooftiles sang with a soft tap, the sound barely audible under feather-light steps. In the starry sky, the moon glowed as a gentle breeze caused locks of hair and loose fabric to sway. Beneath him, he could hear the distant clang of pots and pans from the kitchen, the planks of wood that creaked and tapped with footsteps, and the lively chatter. 

Xiao softly huffed, carefully fastening a mask to his waist before siting down. His golden gaze analyzed the night sky, mentally taking in the time. 

As he sat there silently and peacefully, he awaited the moment the quiet skies would be filled with sparks of color and noise. 

“Mortal or immortal – we all experience life’s joys and sorrows. Those experiences will shape us whether we realize it or not. I know we’ve both seen our fair share of painful and ugly things in this world – and I know the mortals within and beyond our reach and jurisdiction have lived such misfortunes too.” She glanced at him with a soft expression – wistful for a brighter future. “But there are things we can find in the world that can bring even the smallest amount of healing. Part of me wonders if that is one of the many reasons that motivate mortals to practice the arts.”

The teahouse rang with an applause for a young lady who’s opera performance had just ended, her melodious voice having faded into silence. While the evergrowing amount of attention on her could be a bit much, Yunjin wouldn’t want to replace the lively glow and joyful calls that were brought forth in response to her form of artistic expression. To weave the tales and feelings, bringing them to the spotlight… Indeed, it was a feeling worth the effort for others to appreciate as well. 

In the very back of the crowded space, a young woman had silently gotten up, ready to depart now that the show was over. With quiet appreciation, Shenhe turned and made her way to the stairs. She had somewhere to be and people to meet before the fireworks were set off, after all. 

Meanwhile, she could have sworn she heard something very loud echoing within the streets of Liyue Harbor. …Was that…rock music?

“...” A sigh. “...What was the point of this conversation?”

“Does every conversation have to have a point or some sort of end goal? Can’t a dear friend simply muse about the things that make up life?” She chuckled softly. “Or, are you that eager to get rid of me?” 

“That is not the impression I-”

“I know, I know. I’m just teasing a little bit. But, honestly, it would do you some good to branch out.

“...Branch out?”

“Yes. You know… Go and make some more friends other than me. Of course, you have the other Adepti, but you don’t act the same as you do when hanging out with me.”

“They are all dear comrades though.”

“That’s nice and good to have. But…that’s not exactly the same thing as an actual friendship.”

The first thing he spotted in the distance was familiar ginger locks, loose strands slightly dancing in the faint breeze. The sun had already dipped under the horizon, making way for the night. As he made his way closer, the other must have heard his footsteps. 

Childe turned as he picked up on that familiar presence making its way on the balcony. In his arms, he securely held a small and warm bundle. There were tiny hands lightly grasping aimlessly at the fabric of his shirt. “You’re here.”

“Of course I am.” Zhongli faintly rose a brow as he came to a stop right by Childe’s side. His gaze wandered lower before spotting the end of a tail poking out from those blankets. He was already helping to tuck that tail, careful with his motions as he did so. “Did you honestly think I’d be late?”

“No. But you were cutting it close and I didn’t want to miss a second of the fireworks without you.”

“Morax,” Guizhong crouched before a small patch of glaze lilies, her hand reaching out as she gently stroked a petal. She then glanced over her shoulder as she gave him a small smile. “I hope you’ll one day find another you can grow close to with like me. It would do you some good to have more people or things in life you can have such attachments to.”

“I am perfectly content with the state of my life and relationships as they are.”

“I know, but that could change someday. After all, you never expected us to rule together like this.”

“...”

“It’s the little and unexpected things in life, Morax. But don’t worry about it too much. As nice as it is to always think about the future and numerous possibilities there are in life – we shouldn’t let it consume our thoughts too much. Otherwise, we may just forget to appreciate the things and people around us in the present moment.”

She gave him a bright smile. “Sometimes, you just have to let these things come naturally.”

He didn’t know what to make of her words. As far as he was aware, these days with her would continue the same as always without change. He had simply given her a small hum of acknowledgement. 

“...If you say so.”

The silent air filled with a pitched whistle, a spark of light and trail of smoke that raced into the sky. For a brief moment, it vanished from sight, until it seemed to boom in the air with a crackle. The sound was followed by more, lovely hues of bright colors filling the starry sky with various patterns and shapes. Within the night, Liyue glowed brightly for all to see. 

“...” Childe managed to pull his attention away from the fireworks display, looking over with a soft huff of laughter. “Happy Lantern Rite.”

Zhongli blinked as the other’s voice brought him back to awareness. He met Childe’s gaze with a soft expression. “...Happy Lantern Rite to you as well.” His smile grew fonder as he glanced at the cooing bundle in Childe’s arms. “And a very happy first Lantern Rite to you too.”

Another series of whistles filled the air before bursting among the stars. Lights danced and people all around Liyue observed with awe. This…

This is home .