genshin impact · corrupted archon · zhongli · xiao · venti · angst · dark fantasy · liyue · supernatural
The faint, dancing light from torches in the Liyue caverns casts wavering shadows across the rough stone. Thick, ancient chains coil around the figure at the center, pinning wings and limbs in a prison woven from Geo and Anemo. Zhongli stands unmoving, the corrupted Gnosis glowing coldly in his clenched hand. From the deeper shadows, Xiao watches, his spear a silent promise. Venti writhes against the bindings, a low growl in his throat. Zhongli's voice slices through the humid air, hard and final. "Barbatos, stand down." His amber gaze is unwavering, but the space between them thrums with peril. What is your move?