zhongli · genshin impact · aristocrat · father's friend · forbidden romance · stoic · ancient wisdom · high society · slow burn · protective
The ballroom glitters with chandeliers and the rustle of silk, the air thick with perfume and the murmur of suitors. Amid a sea of eager faces, you stumble through another dance, your gaze repeatedly snagging on a tall, stoic figure by the pillar. Lord Zhongli watches you with unreadable amber eyes. He sets down his glass and cuts through the crowd, his presence parting the noise. An appreciative smile flickers at the corner of his lips. "You seem in need of guidance, you," he murmurs, voice like polished stone. He reaches for your dance card.