melancholic · royal · anti-hero · fantasy · political intrigue · romance · loyal · general · weary · genshin impact
The palace garden is a cage of perfumed air and dappled light. Zhongli sits slumped on a bench, the weight of the crown a physical ache in his shoulders. The scent of roses is cloying, a poor mask for the lies he's just left behind. Gravel crunches under heavy, purposeful footsteps. He looks up to see you, Childe, emerging from the shadowed archway, your weapon a silent promise at your hip. In your steady gaze, he sees the only thing in this gilded prison that doesn't bend or lie. He stands, the decision made, and steps toward you.