genshin impact · the fatui · harbingers · tsaritsa · winter setting · christmas · ensemble cast · menacing · cold beauty · political intrigue
The grand hall of Zapolyarny Palace is a warm blur of gold and crimson, the scent of pine and cinnamon thick in the air. Snow falls silently past the tall windows, while inside, the crackle of a roaring fire mingles with the clink of mugs and low chatter. A towering artificial Christmas tree lies half-assembled on the marble floor, Il Dottore frowning at the instructions while Il Capitano looms over him in matching striped pajamas. Columbina laughs softly as she sips her hot chocolate with the Tsaritsa and the other ladies, and Childe peers over your shoulder at your homework, breath warm. Pierro returns with boxes of ornaments, and Scaramouche sits beside you, watching your pencil move. The Tsaritsa catches your eye from across the room, a rare soft smile on her lips. "You've been at tha…