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Chapter Text

“One stole this moment from the realm of mortals. Consequences well known, does one regret such sacrilege?” A soft voice whispered into the wind far above the prying ears of those below yet far below those above. 

“I would never, and yet--” Hazy eyes communicated words left unsaid.

“One only prays Rex Lapis will accept penance. This life, too long to fall from grace.”

“I worry not for myself, but our gift. Should she come to be, neither realm can accept one of such nature.”

“The Darkness will consume her--her fate only left to Him. There is no savior for us now.”

A fleeting forlorn glance was all that remained of the lovers in the night.

---

“There are dangers in this world you must protect yourself from. Dangers well beyond the comprehension of mortals. It’s time you learned of these threats should you find yourself in such a situation. Listen closely now.”

An expanse of amethyst widened as her brain absorbed the forbidden knowledge. A million questions already flooded her mind. 

“There are beasts in the world, Adepti. Once protectors of Liyue, over countless millennia they waged war over the Darkness set to consume the city and those within. The bloodshed had protected our ancestors and allowed our city to prosper. Though only at the price of corruption. The Adepti were consumed by the very Darkness they sought to repel. No longer do they act as the protectors of Liyue, but as treats to mortals. They seek the purity within our souls, an act to salvage their previous forms. Their struggle is no longer conscious, out of nature they lure you to sacrifice.” 

A small gasp was heard from the girl. Her small hands flush against the shag as she leaned forward on her knees in an effort to know more. The supernatural was not new, vision wielders ran rampant throughout the city, but these creatures. Her tutor had not included this lesson.

“Only the power of Rex Lapis could save such corruption. An archaic Archon lost to time. He relinquished control of the city to the Adepti only for them to be incapable of fulfilling their duties. He has long since disappeared, only driving the Adepti far into the mountains atop the tallest peaks. There, is where they reside, though history has shown it is possible for them to descend on the city which is why we must be careful. The Adepti may take on any form, only the sweet calling may alert you to their intentions.”

“Any form?” Tiny lips tested the words imprinting them into memory.

“Many are known to take the form of beasts however some have claimed they heard the calls from beautiful women or even elderly neighbours. We cannot be too careful. Take care in the presence of strangers, child. The Darkness knows no bounds, it only acts to infest its physical vessel.”

“How do I know if it’s calling me?”

“They will call you in the most melodic voice you will ever hear. It’s the voice of their subconscious--as they are rarely conscious anymore--the voice will echo in your mind until you heed its call. It will not sound like that of a mortal or will you see them speak. Their eyes will convey all that needs to be said. One day you will know and you will tell your children of the dangers. This is all I can do for now to protect you, Keqing, do you understand?”

“Yes, Daddy.”

---

“Ganyu the new Yuheng will be arriving later today, would you please accompany her for the day? Ningguang stood patiently at Ganyu’s office door as the other woman shook off the drowsiness of the morning. 

Snapping to, Ganyu gathered her hands and folded them atop the desk, “Yes of course Lady Ningguang. I will do my utmost to make her feel welcomed.”

“Thank you Ganyu. I trust you know of her already?” It was common knowledge who the new Yuheng was. Her family was extremely prominent in Liyue. Everyone in the Qixing knew it was only a matter of time before this day was to arise. Ningguang especially had dealt with the outspoken child, as she would say, a multitude of times. Though only through well thought out business maneuvers.

“Of course. Lady Keqing is quite well known.” Ganyu replied simply despite knowing there was much more to be said. 

Ningguang gave her dissatisfied look before making her way back to her own office, “You know that's not what I meant.” Ganyu could imagine Ningguang making a less than graceful face behind her fan as she walked down the hallway.

Meanwhile Ganyu knew exactly what Ningguang was referring to. This day in age many had forgotten the reign of Rex Lapis, only those more knowledgeable of--or acquainted with--the Darkness still regarded him with high regard. It was typical for many to be unfamiliar with the name, however, Keqing was most certainly not unfamiliar. Throughout her young career she had made it her mission to remind those only to slander his name and his abandonment of the Adepti and the people of Liyue. From a family with such a strong lineage it was expected she would be familiar with Liyuen history. Though Ganyu refused to believe her lies. 

Ganyu sighed and reminded herself of her place and her duty to accommodate Lady Keqing today. Should the topic of their archon not arise, she should not worry.

---

Keqing was always prompt, if not early. Business waits for no woman. Her first day as the Yuheng of the Qixing should be a pompous event however Keqing has requested that she begin work immediately. There would be time for frivolities after work.

Upon entering the Yuehai Pavilion she was intercepted by--as far as she was concerned--the Tianquan’s personal emissary. She had seen the woman around the city before however never spoken to her. 

“Lady Keqing, welcome to the Yuehai Pavilion. I know you are eager to begin working however the matter of swearing you in still remains. May I propose we sort that matter, take a grand tour, then I’ll leave you to settle into your office before lunch? The Tianquan sends her apologies that she could not welcome you personally however she is very busy dealing with international matters. Please accept her condolences and I as your guide today.” Keqing could tell Ganyu had practiced her speech in the moments before her arrival. For someone working as closely to the Qixing as Ganyu seemed to be it was surprising to find the woman was still apprehensive while addressing her. Perhaps she was afraid Keqing would oppose. It was true that her reputation preceded her, she was well aware the people of Liyue called her uptight, to put it nicely.

“Of course, I trust you have a set schedule already, Miss…” 

“Ganyu. Please just Ganyu is fine. If you will follow me, we can begin the oath.” 

The ceremony was extremely low key just as she had requested. The only ones present were herself, Ganyu and the official. The process was quick so she and Ganyu headed outside to begin the tour. Keqing had been to the pavilion on official matters briefly however she was still mostly unfamiliar with the grounds. 

“I wanted to start here in the gardens, my favorite place to relax. The Qingxin at this time of year are delectable.” Keqing raised an eyebrow at this, most people found Qingxin to be extremely bitter and therefore inedible. Perhaps Ganyu meant delectable in a different sense?

Keqing had heard many stories about the girl with the horns from the Pavilion, now was her time to discover the truth within the lies. It seemed to be true the girl had an affinity for the headdress she was always seen wearing. Any more than that, it was too early to tell.

“If you lie on the ground, you can feel the heartbeat of the world.” Keqing found the other most unusual however she was beginning to get the sense the woman felt deeply connected to nature. 

They visited the official meeting room next where Keqing found her designated seat next to the Tianquan. Despite all members of the Qixing having equal status, the Tianquan had been seemingly at the forefront for a long time. Though Lady Ningguang was only a few years older than Keqing, she seemed to hold a millenia’s worth of experience.  The other Qixing tended to fade into the background.

The long mahogany table was exactly what she expected, the aggressively jade themed decor, was not. Keqing schooled her features despite finding the entire room overly gaudy, but it seemed Ganyu caught on regardless. Or she had the same thought.

“The Tianquan really prefers--erm--jade colored objects,” Ganyu gave a sympathetic smile before turning to continue the tour.

“Noted.”

The tour continued on without a hitch. Ganyu presented the locations in high detail as any good secretary would all the while adding her own personal anecdotes to remain personable.

“Finally this will be your office, I’ll leave you a moment to settle in. We will reconvene after lunch and I will introduce you to Lady Ningguang. Does that work for you?”

“Yes, that’s all well. I have met the Tianquan before. Not as a member of the Qixing, but she is no stranger to me.”

“Of course not.” Ganyu sighed silently before taking her leave.

---

Keqing looked around her new office finding little of interest. The view was nice enough, the hallway quiet enough, the desk well over large enough. She had to fight off the itch to begin working, despite having no tasks nor idea what work needed to be done. 

She huffed and less than gracefully fell into the chair to begin waiting for the end of Ganyu’s lunch hour. Technically, it was her lunch hour as well but Ganyu had given her quite a tour and all she really wanted to do was sit. Not that she would admit that out loud to anyone. She always told herself, no one works harder than she does. 

Left to her own devices Keqing let her mind wander. Ganyu was quite an enigma. The woman’s anecdotes were always abstract. She would present the tour information as if her mind were in a completely different space than the space her personal thoughts existed in. Typically this would be normal, as one tends to focus on work when--at work. However the woman constantly seemed to be switching headspaces. Unusual, but Keqing has met stranger people in the past. 

Secondly, Ganyu had to know wearing horns like that may lead people to believe she is a follower of the Darkness. There haven’t been many but sometimes mortals believe they can find fulfillment by worshiping the Adepti of old. It would never take long before each and every last one of them had gone mad and led themselves to their own demise. Based on her own experiences, Ganyu had been working at Yuehai Pavilion longer than any of those lunatics could remain sane, however. Thus it was unlikely she was a worshiper.

Before long Keqing shook herself out of her thoughts and brushed Ganyu off as just another character. Lunchtime was over and she was expecting Ganyu soon.

---

Not long after Ganyu arrived at her door wearing a smudge of dirt on her cheek and a yawn on her lips. 

“Y-you have something uh here,” Keqing pointed to her own cheek .

“Hmm,” Ganyu replied contentedly like she was remembering something fondly. Not a second later her eyes widened and she snapped to attention wiping the dirt from her cheek. “He-here? Sorry, sorry. Shall we go to greet Lady Ningguang?” Ganyu hurried down the hall leaving Keqing to play catch up and virtually run down the hall.

---

 “Lady Keqing, a pleasure. I knew it was only a matter of time before we would have this meeting. I’m glad the day is finally here,” Ningguang was giving her a smile that boarded on being saccharine. 

“Similarly, it’s nice to see you again. I look forward to working with you,” Keqing nodded. The atmosphere was tense but Keqing didn’t expect anything different. She knew this was just the beginning of a difficult partnership. Her views didn’t exactly align with Ningguangs’. That much was clear as anyone who knew either of them and their lines of work knew they frequently butted heads. Previously it was always Keqing versus the Qixing where the Qixing meant Ningguang. Was it going to be the beginning of the Qixing versus the Qixing? Or will it always be Keqing against everyone else?

“Very well indeed. I trust you’re looking to begin work immediately? Someone with a work ethic such as yourself must be having a difficult time dealing with the trivalties of a first day. As I’m sure you’re aware, the Yuheng’s tasks are insurmountable since the departure of your predecessor. I’ve stored them here, take a look and pick whichever seems most urgent,” Ningguang flicked her wrist and the jade drawer flew open releasing a comical display of papers exploding from within. 

“Ganyu would you please assist Lady Keqing with these?”

“Of course.”

---

“That should be the last of them Lady Keqing. It seems as though the previous Yuheng hasn’t filled any claims since well before her departure.” Ganyu finished placing the last document into its new home, hopefully to be looked at sooner than it had been in its old location. 

“I’ll be working harder than Rex Lapis to get all this done,” Keqing mumbled to herself. Behind her Ganyu bit her tongue.

“Yes… well I’ll let you get to it. Seeing as I am as much your secretary as everyone else's please let me know how I can assist you. My office is just across the hall. Enjoy the rest of your first day Lady Keqing.” Ganyu bowed slightly before retreating.

Keqing wasted no time before starting the mountainous task that might as well take a year.

Chapter Text

Keqing’s brow furrowed in frustration as she reviewed the final document left over from the previous Yuheng. Between the old tasks and the new ones flooding in, Keqing has been working nonstop for the last year. She was used to working hard of course but she would have preferred to at least sleep in her bed rather at her desk. 

In the last week a group of teenagers had wandered too close to Mt. Aozang and had an encounter with an Adeptus. To say the backlash was harsh was an understatement. After a week of debating who was in charge of the safety of the people, it was decided the area was to be resurveyed and designated as forbidden lands. Keqing was in charge of meeting with the surveyors later that day to confirm the borders of the area. 

On top of all that, the deadlines for the old projects were coming up that needed her attention as well. However, finally after a full year, she could finally put those matters to rest. Her eyes and writing hand were moving at a furying pace as she finished up. The documents would have to go through the rest of the Qixing to be approved. Ningguang’s vetting was the most rigorous as it determined the legality of redesigning Liyue’s borders and the cooperation of other nations so she figured she would send it up to the Jade Chamber first. 

“Ganyu! These need to go to the Jade Chamber, can you take them?” Keqing held up the pile of documents waiting for Ganyu to take them. She considered herself the most lucky of the Qixing since Ganyu was directly across the hallway; she could just call directly for her rather than send someone for her. However Ningguang, in the last year, moved out of the Pavilion and into the newly constructed Jade Chamber. Keqing could feel a blood vessel in her forehead bulge when she thought about how difficult the Tianquan made communication with her. But that’s just another thing she has to deal with, nothing can be done.

“Are these the finalized versions of the Aozang oversight?” Ganyu clarified.

“Less of an oversight and more of an incident, wouldn’t you agree? Citizens getting involved with the Adepti is not something we can afford to take lightly. We have to protect ourselves, but the Qixing has to make sure they are protected regardless of their own inability. Wouldn’t you agree? I have to meet with the surveyors later today so please be quick,” Keqing didn’t even look up; she just kept writing.

“Yes, I suppose.” Ganyu bowed her head and took the documents.

Since working as the Yuheng, Keqing quickly learned Ganyu would never say anything in response to her opinions on things. The woman would dutifully fulfill her job while feigning professionalism over her downcast expression. Keqing had a hunch that Ganyu did not agree with most of her opinions but it wouldn’t get her anywhere if she never spoke up so Keqing ignored it. It wasn’t unusual for people to disagree with her, she did have strong opinions after all. 

---

Glancing back down at her desk, Keqing realized she forgot to send the drafted amendment with the rest of the papers. So much for sending Ganyu. Figuring she ought to stand up and stretch her legs, she decided to take the document herself. Ganyu couldn’t be too far ahead since she left only a few minutes ago. Hopefully she could catch up before she took the plaustrite up so she wouldn’t have to wait for its return. 

Walking with a purpose Keqing made her way to the front of the Pavilion and over to the Millelith guarding the shard. To her surprise Ganyu was nowhere in sight and the shard was motionless at the edge of the Pavilion’s terrace. Perhaps Ganyu moved faster than Keqing expected. 

--

Arriving at the Jade Chamber Keqing still saw no sign of Ganyu but it didn’t really matter since she wasn’t Ganyu’s keeper so why should she care.

Upon entering the chamber Keqing heard a familiar voice. “Ning, even if you do that I’ll still win. I don’t care if this is your game.” For a long time Keqing wondered why Ningguang would let that captain prance around Liyue blatantly disregarding the laws. For almost as long as Keqing wondered, Ningguang had put up a facade of upholding Liyue’s laws and fining Beidou. It wasn’t long after that Keqing finally realized, Ningguang let her do as she pleased due to the great business it brought for Liyue. Nothing else. 

“Captain, you winning is against the rules. As of now. Therefore you cannot win. If you break the rules of the game, you lose. Simple as that.”

“You can’t call it a game if the probability of winning is zero.”

“Only for you.”

“Ehem.” Never one to be deterred by the private business of others, Keqing announced her presence greeting both the Tianquan and her esteemed guest. The two seemed to be playing Ningguang’s notoriously difficult game of Liyue Millennial. Notoriously difficult since, as she witnessed not a moment ago, Ningguang would change the rules of her game on a whim even if it were in the middle of the game.

“Ah, Keqing. Hello,” Ningguang greeted Keqing with mild contempt as she was interrupting one of her meetings. 

“I brought the amendment for the Aozang remapping. I missed it when I sent Ganyu with the rest of the documents. I trust you received them?”

“Rest of the documents? I haven’t seen Ganyu since this morning. Though it is lunch and Ganyu takes her hour very seriously. I’m sure she’ll be by afterwards.”

Keqing did know that Ganyu took her lunch seriously. Every day at the same time the woman would disappear only to return slightly dirtier and yawning. Keqing didn’t bother to ask what she did as it didn't concern her. However, now it seems that it does. Keqing looked at the time and realized she had sent Ganyu with the papers only minutes before her scheduled hour off. In hindsight she should have taken them herself from the start. Though, Ganyu could have said something. Especially if she didn’t intend to stop here first.

Keqing huffed. She had learned a long time ago the only person she would truly depend on was herself. But not it was too late for that, she needed those documents to be approved minutes ago. “I need them now. I have a meeting with the surveyors in a few hours and I still have to get to Aozang.”

“Keqing, take lunch. I will review your proposal as soon as Ganyu brings them. I would like to get back to my lunch hour as well if you don’t mind.”

“Can you at least tell me where she is? I’ll go collect them myself.”

“She is not to be disturbed. She will come down when she does, okay?” Ningguang looked visibly agitated now. Anyone with a brain would know it was time to leave. Even Keqing who usually disregarded the read of the room.

The more Keqing thought about what Ningguang said, the less sense it made. Down? They were literally floating in the sky. What could be higher than where they were right now? Celestia?” That's impossible. 

Keqing left the chamber in a huff. Ningguang was the only one that had the audacity to put Keqing in her place and to be honest it pissed her off. All the members in the Qixing were equals. How did Ningguang have the ability to tell her what to do and when? Keqing stepped out onto the front terrace of the floating island talking in the scenery to calm herself. With Celestia on her mind she chanced a glance upward seeing the ever present blot in the sky. She let out a humourless laugh as she thought about how if Ningguang could have her way the Jade Chamber would push Celestia out of the sky.

When her eyes fell back to level she noticed something she somehow missed before. Mt. Tianheng. The top of the mountain rose slightly above the jade chamber. Could that be where Ganyu had gone for her nap? It was quite a trek to get up there.

---

Keqing was nimble, she had acquired quite a number of cat-like qualities over the years, for reasons unknown, after all but the climb up the mountain was difficult. The area was crawling with monsters. In the past the monsters would usually converge at the bottom of the hill but this time it seemed like they were climbing towards the top. Nothing a little electro vision couldn’t handle but regardless it made the journey more timely. Time Keqing couldn’t afford to lose. 

The mountain was unforgiving, she definitely did not expect that she would be doing this today. For a brief moment Keqing wondered if Ganyu would even really be up here. Ningguang could have just forgotten they were in the sky and not back at the pavilion or used the term down in error. But if Keqing was one thing it was persistent. She was halfway to the top and giving up now was not something she would be able to get over. Even if the entire exercise acted as a way to prove to herself that she could do it.

As she got closer to the top she could feel a mild but strange aura encircling her. No wonder the monsters were swarming, they were being called. Keqing wasn’t one to worry so she wasn’t fearful of her safety, though maybe she should have been, she continued upwards to see what was going on. She rehearsed the steps her father had taught her many years ago in the case she came in contact with one the Adepti should she find one atop this mountain. 

When she finally reached the top however, the energy had dissipated. She had prepared herself for any number of situations she may find herself in upon reaching the top however what she actually found was far beyond the scope of her imagination. 

Monsters converged on a certain woman who was certainly not sleeping. She wielded a heavily crafted bow infused with the power of cryo. Keqing was not sure if she should take the news of Ganyu being a superior fighter or being a vision wielder with more surprise. Ganyu had never given the impression she could handle any type of weapon and yet she expertly took down hordes of enemies with one single exploding shot from her bow.

Keqing stared on in disbelief as Ganyu took down the last of the monsters with ease. Speechless, she couldn't even alert the other of her presence which likely went unnoticed up until now. 

Ganyu knocked one last arrow and pointed it towards Keqing. Both their faces quickly morphed into shock. “Lady Keqing! Ah-um what are you doing here? I’m sorry I didn’t expect anyone else to be up here.” Ganyu stumbled over her words quickly lowering her bow. 

“Err-I uh… the documents…” Keqing's face contorted with confusion. In a last ditch effort to compose herself, “I’ve noticed you haven’t brought the documents to the Tianquan yet.”

“No, I’m actually on my way there now,” Ganyu hurriedly gathered her things and made her way towards the edge.

“Could you not have done that first before coming here to… what are you some kind of vigilante?” Keqing accused.

“No! No, I-I wouldn’t. I just came here for my afternoon nap but today it seems I was followed,” by more than just the monsters Ganyu mused to herself.

Keqing was so befuddled she couldn’t even recall the energy she felt on her way up here. Later she would wonder if Ganyu felt it as well. Up until this very moment Keqing hadn’t given much thought to Ganyu being much of anything. The woman kept her head down and her voice to herself. Now everything anyone had ever said about her came rushing back. Most recently why would Ninggunag have told her that she mustn’t be disturbed? It had always been a rumor that Ganyu would take naps during lunch but this proved otherwise despite Ganyu’s own words.

“I’ll be bringing your documents to Lady Ningguang now, no need to worry. Although one more thing, please if you would keep whatever you saw between us, I would prefer for the Tianquan not to worry.” With that Ganyu was gone and Keqing was back to reality alone on the mountain with a million thoughts racing through her head.

Chapter Text

“~Keqing, join me.~”

Keqing looked around only to find no one there. Someone was calling her but she couldn’t see anyone or anything. The voice, a beautiful call, similar to a voice she’s heard before but even more beautiful.  

She stumbled in the direction of the voice determined to find out who was calling her. What did they want? Who were they?

She fumbled in the darkness trying to find her feet. Only a small blue light directed her movements. It was leading her deeper, deeper… Until finally she fell.

Her limbs being pulled with human strength away from her body. Her arm was going to be torn out of the socket. A pain in her chest threatening to move up her throat. She cried out but the void swallowed it and she couldn’t hear her own voice anymore. 

---

“-qing? Hello?” The last few days Keqing found herself lost in her own thoughts, but eerily enough she could never recall what they were about. Now was no exception. Ganyu had her hand gently rested on Keqing’s shoulder in an attempt to catch her attention.

“Huh? Oh, it’s you. Did you need something?” She could see worry etched into Ganyu’s eyes but she wouldn’t acknowledge it. 

“Ah yes, Lady Ningguang has requested you meet with her,” Ganyu paused awkwardly as though she was debating on saying the next part. “Now.” As dutiful as every Ganyu bowed and scurried away lest she have to deal with Keqing’s grumblings. 

Grimacing, Keqing sat up in the chair and checked her watch. She had done nothing today. Of course Ningguang would want to lecture her. Ningguang, her peer, not even her boss. In any other circumstances Keqing would be appalled and disappointed in herself for her work ethic these last few days, but right now, her head was still swimming. Had she really felt what she felt on the mountain? The more she thought about it the more she was sure it was Adeptal energy and yet when she reached the top the only one there was Ganyu. Granted, she was fighting for her life but like every other mortal she didn’t run away. Everyone knew not to allow their bravery and courage get in the way of fleeing from an Adeptus. No amount of self restraint could protect you from their call. 

Finally mustering the will to face Ningguang, Keqing strolled, with no real sense of urgency, to the Jade Chamber. Keqing was tired of being treated like a child so she did everything in her power to irritate the older woman.

“Keqing,” Ningguang growled as she pushed open the large doors to the office. 

“Lady Ningguang,” Keqing bowed exaggeratedly. 

“Honestly, what has gotten into you? Spare me from bringing up the change in your work ethic,” Ningguang sighed, her demeanor changing. “Please, let me help you. I know that ego of yours barely fits through the door but you’re clearly having a hard time.” How fitting that she would lace every comment, no matter how seemingly kind, with that typical sting of superiority. 

“It’s nothing.” Ningguang was the last person Keqing would reveal her insecurities to. Not to mention, Ganyu did ask that what she saw stayed between them. So what did she see exactly?

“You’re not leaving until you tell me, I as well as the rest of the Qixing can’t afford to have a Yuheng who can’t even get her proposals done on time. Now start talking.” It was amazing that Ningguang even bothered putting up her cute big sister facade. She was a ruthless business woman and wouldn’t take no for an answer.

There were two options here; lie to Ningguang and say she was sick or tell the truth. Both options had obvious pitfalls. Despite all the horrible words Keqing could use to describe her, stupid was not one of them. Ningguang possessed a scary sixth sense into people’s innermost thoughts. On the other hand, if Keqing were to tell the truth, she can’t imagine what kind of scene that would cause and the rumours would spread like wildfire. Even if she were to go with this option she doesn't know what she would say. She didn’t see anything, she just felt what she thought was an Adeptus. For all she knows Ganyu could have been under attack and all Keqing did was stand there and watch. What if what she said sounded like she was accusing Ganyu of being an Adeptus. An accusation not to be taken lightly. Even with no proof a claim like that would drive Liyue to ruin.

Deciding that the fastest way out of the trap she found herself in was to not wholly lie or tell the truth.

“I think I was called when I went to Aozang.”

In another situation Keqing would have patted herself on the back for being the one that caused Ningguang’s face to contort in surprise. So this is what it takes to catch the woman off guard. She’ll have to store this information for later.

Ningguang was silent for longer than Keqing had ever witnessed. She seemed to be thinking her words over very carefully. “That was your first time,” it was less of a question and more of a statement. 

It was not typical for mortals to be called by Adepti at any time in their lives. Most people in Liyue only heard the stories of what it was like. They only had a weak understanding of what it really felt like but the stories were harrowing enough that every citizen knew what to do in the case that it happened to them. The Qixing were an exception of course. They were the ones in the situations where dealing with the Adepti came as more of a hands on approach. The perfect example being that Keqing had to go to the known home of an Adepti for business.

Ningguang saying her ‘first’ time just acted as a reminder she was still inexperienced in her role and there would be many more times where her life would be put in danger. She had heard the stories from when the other members of the Qixing would come back from a field mission and recount having been called. It wasn’t new for them, however anyone’s first time would be a monumental experience. Granted, privately, Keqing could not say she was scared of what had happened, more intrigued than anything really. Not to mention the quiet reserved secretary of the Qixing was there and had to have felt the same thing, yet Ganyu had yet to come forth and say anything about the encounter. 

“Keqing why didn’t you say something earlier? You must have been shaken to the core. Luckily the Millelith were there to protect you I presume?”

“They weren’t with me, I knew it was going to be dangerous so I requested they stay at the bottom. I knew what to do so of course I was able to escape.”

“How many times do I have to tell you to keep the Millelith with you! They’re trained for these kinds of situations.”

“Really? Maybe next time you’ll be there to see the relieved look on their faces when I told them to stand down.”

“As fiery as ever I see. Regardless, we have decided that you need to take the rest of the day off and collect your thoughts. You can’t work in this state, obviously, so you might as well go home,” Ningguang shot her a side eye that left no room for complaints, not that it had stopped Keqing in the past, present, or future.

“I-” Looking like a fish out of water, Keqing was forced to stop mid sentence.

“Keqing you have done fuck all for the last two days! Leave!” Ningguang stood up, stomped over to Keqing and pushed her out the door.

---

Ningguang puffed a heavy cloud of smoke from her nose.

“You know with that scowl on your face you almost look like Rex Lapis,” Beidou chuckled. Ningguang scoffed. How did she manage to surround herself with the most infuriating women? 

“She has been useless since she came back from Aozang. She said she felt an Adeptus there. I don’t believe it. She thinks she can lie to me,” Ningguang paced over the polished floor. 

“I don’t even know what you’re going on about Ning. She’s just a kid, cut her some slack.”

“Honestly Beidou, I’m trying to protect her. I think she saw something she shouldn’t have. I told her not to go up there but she never listens. Remind me, I have to do something about that. I need to speak with Ganyu. If this were to get out-”

“Ning, breathe. I’m sure it’s nothing. She was probably so shocked she doesn’t remember the half of it. She’ll get over it in time and it’ll be alright. Just let it play out, okay?”

“Why do I get the feeling I shouldn’t trust you?”

---

Of course Keqing didn’t leave. She rarely spent any time in her apartment so it wasn’t as comforting as it should be. The only real time she spent moving in was placing her prized figurines on a shelf near her bed. 

Coming back to the place Ganyu had shown her the very first day she ever started working, Keqing found herself in the gardens outside the pavilion. Ningguang rarely came down anymore so it was unlikely that she would find her. And despite Ningguang’s mention of the other Qixing she knew they didn’t care. One of them spent the entire day by the wharf looking at the water pretending to be someone's uncle.

She leaned over the railing overlooking the city below taking in the salty air from the sea. The moment was perfect for relaxing. She would admit that. Now that she had this time to think, she figured it wasn’t really a big deal. This was just the first of many Adepti encounters yet to come. She reprimanded herself for looking weak in front of the Tianquan. She figured with all that Ganyu did for the Qixing she probably had met Adepti as frequently as they did. It was clear by the way she handled her bow that she knew how to defend herself. If Ganyu didn’t want to discuss the encounter then Keqing would leave it as it is. Ganyu had requested she not tell anyone since she didn’t want Ningguang to worry. Clearly high mountain peaks were dangerous, perhaps Ganyu didn’t want her to know she went up there for lunch. 

Keqing took a few deep breaths figuring this charade had been going on long enough and she ought to make up the work she missed over the last few days. Though since she did have the rest of the day off, she might as well stay out here a bit longer and enjoy the weather, rarely something she was able to do before. Ganyu wasn’t lying, the garden really made one feel connected to nature. She closed her eyes, stretched and basked in the sunlight.

“Lady Keqing, nice to see you taking some time off enjoying the weather I presume,” Ganyu’s gentle voice slowly drawing Keqing from her thoughts.

“Yes, I figured I’d come enjoy the sun.”

“And take time off?”

“Yes, take time off. Did Lady Ningguang put you up to this?”

“She may have also called me to the Jade Chamber, yes. However it is by my own volition to come here. Truth be told I was not expecting to find you here. I would have thought you’d go home,” Ganyu mirrored Keqing’s position on the railing.

“Like you, I find this place more relaxing. The people carrying on about their business as though nothing were to affect them. I’m glad what we’re working on matters. To keep this--peace. But it makes me think if we have to suffer disproportionately. Not that it isn’t worth it but shouldn’t there be an easier way to manage the Adepti? There is peace, but fear still lurks despite our best efforts.” 

“I believe what we do is sufficient.”

“People are still dying,” Keqing was surprised Ganyu voiced her thoughts for the first time. Unsurprisingly they were in opposition to her own but that was expected at this point. 

“Even the Adepti were once conscious,” Ganyu whispered more to the wind than anyone else. “They serve as a constant reminder of the changes that come with each turn of the millennium.”

What a strange thing to say.  “Shouldn’t we be looking towards the future and not continue being reminded of the past? People are scared of the future, the borders around Adepti grounds are widening every year.”

“Then-” Ganyu’s voice came out rough like she was having a hard time controlling herself from an overpowering anger. But as quick as it came it was gone. Keqing couldn’t make heads or tails of it. Returning to a frantic version of her normal voice Ganyu insisted it time to go, “You should really get going. It’s getting late. I won’t tell Lady Ningguang you were here okay? Goodbye Lady Keqing.” With that Ganyu hurried deeper into the garden.

Keqing finally decided to take her leaving after that strange display. There were only so many abnormalities in one week she could handle and she was pretty sure she was at her limit.

Her footsteps echoing through the pavilion was the only noise bouncing around in her head but slowly a voice starting softly and gradually getting louder but still incredibly gentle, called to her.

“~Keqing~”

Looking behind her for the course of the call she noticed a sliver of blue hair just around the corner in the garden. It must have been Ganyu saying goodnight.

She called a good night back only for the blue sliver to disappear into the night.”

Chapter Text

Over the next few days Keqing started to get the feeling Ganyu had been avoiding her. At first it was only little things; first Ganyu wouldn’t stick around to chat after delivering a note, then it turned into Ganyu nodding curtly before leaving the room, taking a wide berth around her. Now Ganyu went as far as sending her juniors to deliver messages to Keqing. 

Keqing found the entire ordeal extremely out of character for her to act so unprofessionally. She would never have let personal issues influence her work ethic in the past. Keqing, though slightly off-put by Ganyu’s rudeness, was concerned for her. Perhaps she should take the issue to Ningguang. Ningguang always seemed to know more than she let on about Ganyu. They had known each other for a very long time after all, so it was to be expected. 

Keqing sighed and figured sorting this matter was more important than any task she was currently working on. For the sake of efficiency they couldn’t continue on with their work relationship in this state. Considering the fact it took 100% more bodies to deliver a simple message from one side of the hall to the other, the secretary to Qixing metrics were appalling. 

On the way to the Jade Chamber, Keqing couldn't help but think it was something she had done. She hoped Ningguang wouldn’t be irate with her for driving Ganyu to such a state. Typically Keqing was prideful and rarely had a guilty conscience but this time perhaps it was different. Ganyu has always been reliable and as steady as a rock when it came to her duties. Why the sudden change?

“Keqing, I was just about to send someone for you,” Ningguang looked surprisingly distressed when Keqing found her mulling over papers at her desk. 

“Me? With what regard?” Slightly wary, it wasn’t every day Ningguang had a hair out of place.

“As I’m sure you’ve heard by now the Adepti are getting more and more hostile. I sent a group of Millelith to investigate a village nearby Mt. Hulao and it was… unsalvageable lets say.”

“The Adepti have been getting more hostile every year, this is hardly anything new. The longer they remain under the control of the darkness the most restless they become. They’ve been searching larger and larger areas each year, this is why we remapped Aozang. Is it not?”

“I know that, however this is different. It seems a stronger force has been emitting a signal from here,” she pinned a location under one of her claws, “We have reports that other Adepti have been migrating towards this area. I’m concerned with so much dark energy centralized in one place…”

“For how long!” All Keqing came up here to do was discuss the issue between her and Ganyu meanwhile Ningguang had apparently been withholding information from her.  Keqing wasn’t even sure why she was surprised the other woman would do this. She should’ve expected this much. Nonetheless, Keqing felt betrayed.

“Calm down, it’s only been three days.” Three days since Ningguang told her to go home that day. She probably wanted Keqing out of her hair. 

“I think-”

“I didn’t call you up here to think, Keqing. I have already made a plan and it has been set into action. I need you to complete this contract with the Grand Master of Mondstadt in my stead. Oh and if you will, take Ganyu with you.”

“What!? I-I need to be here and deal with this. As the Yuheng I-” Later Keqing would realize her little outburst here, was likely just one of the reasons Ningguang acted like her senior.

“I have it handled. The most important thing you have to be doing is finishing this deal and taking Ganyu with you.” 

Keqing sighed, this was not why she came here and now she was being forced to take a trip to Mondstadt.

Keqing sighed in defeat. Some day she would do things her way, some day she wouldn’t yield to Ningguang. Today was not that day.  “I’ll go to Mondstadt, but I actually came up here to talk to you about Ganyu, I think she’s been avoiding me recently.”

“She’s just having a hard time with the Adeptal shifts. She’s nervous. It’ll be good for her to get away from everything for a while. You’ll help her won’t you?” When it came to Ganyu, Ningguang was unusually protective. A side few ever saw from Ningguang in regards to themselves.

“I guess, but what if she doesn’t want to accompany me?” The self doubt came flooding back. It was baseless since Keqing didn’t even have a single moment in her mind that could have caused such a reaction. But, even the great Keqing was not immune to such thoughts.

“I gave her orders to go with you so she will go.”

“You gave her orders to accompany me, before even telling me I was going somewhere?”

“And yet you both know now don’t you?”

“Ughhh!” Keqing stomped out of the chamber to go pack her things and gather Ganyu.

---

“Ganyu, I’m told you’re accompanying me to Mondstadt? I’d like to leave as soon as possible. The quicker we get there the quicker we can get back and deal with the Adepti situation.”

“Y-yes Lady Keqing. I have already prepared myself.”

“Shall we go now then?” Keqing paused, a thought occurring to her. “You know I can do this on my own if you don’t want to come. I won’t tell Ningguang.”

“What makes you say that? I would never betray my contract to fulfil the orders of the Qixing.” Ganyu looked miffed. 

“Really… I couldn't help but notice our relationship has seemed a bit strained as of recently. That wouldn’t be because you don’t want to see me would it?” Keqing would go down with a bruised ego so she sneered. Was she always like this or was this job bringing out the worst in her?

Ganyu tried to hide her embarrassment in her hands as she mumbled something along the lines of, “Well, not exactly that.”

“Let’s just go. I’m hoping to get there and back today if everything goes according to plan.”

“Actually, I know Lady Ningguang said I would be accompanying you however there are a few tasks I was given as well. This trip will likely take more than a single day.”

“What.”

---

“I have heard the situation with the Adepti has gotten quite serious recently. I was quite surprised that the Tianquan decided to move ahead with the contract,” the Grand Master of Mondstadt could not have been much older than Keqing herself and yet she was taking on the entire job alone. As much as Keqing liked to complain about Ningguang, and as difficult as she made her life sometimes, her experience was extremely beneficial to the entire Qixing, Keqing included.

‘As was I,’ Keqing thought to herself. 

“I hope you find the respite you desire here, we have made the utmost preparation to make you both feel comfortable.”

“Respite?”

“Yes, I was told two members of the Qixing should be arriving in Mondstadt today to finish the deal as well as seek tranquility within our walls.”

“No no, we just came to finish this deal and a few tasks and then we’ll be off.”

“Actually,” Ganyu mildly interjected herself into the conversation. “That is on our behalf. We will be staying for a short while.”

“Huh?”

Ganyu turned to Keqing looking remorseful. “The tasks I have to complete are not exactly time limited as one would say. Ningguang sent a few tasks that she requested you take a look at as well. I hope you don’t mind”

“Master Jean if you don’t mind, could we have a moment?” Keqing gave half a smile before turning away, the other half was obscured by the embarrassment of not being informed of the reason for this trip.

Keqing could feel every vein in her forehead about to combust. Ningguang did not tell her that this was a respite. She did not tell her she'd be gone for a week if not longer. But Ganyu of all people knew. Was Ganyu her keeper now? What the hell was Ningguang trying to hide?

“Ganyu what is this about! No one told me we were ‘seeking respite’. What the hell is going on in Liyue that we can’t be there?”

“The truth is I can’t be in Liyue as of now. The last time there was a strong Adeptal energy shift, I had a panic attack so in times of great concern Ningguang has requested that I be removed from the area to avoid another mishap.” Ganyu wrung her hands together.

“But why disguise it as a trip to Mondstadt. You could take as much time off as you need, I’m sure you have enough days stored up by now.”

“Well then you should be glad to know we will actually be doing work while we are here. Mondstadt is having a crisis of their own so we have been sent to aid them as well.”

“For… an indeterminate amount of time?”

“Ehm, yes. We’re not sure how long the situation in Liyue will last but Master Jean has been very accommodating.”

Keqing still had a lot to think about the place she found herself in. Tricked yes, for a good cause? Debatable. Anyway, they mustn't keep their host waiting too long.

“Thank you Master Jean. Thank you for inviting us to Mondstadt and working with us to finalize this contract. We will do our best to aid you in these difficult times,” Keqing bowed, in an attempt to preserve the little credibility she had left, and allowed the Knights to lead her to her room for the foreseeable future. 

---

“Would you like me to accompany you?” Keqing stopped in her tracks.

“No need, I’m just going to see the sights and enjoy what Mondstadt has to offer.”

“You’re taking your training sword,” Ganyu tried to peer around Keqing pointing towards her poorly concealed sword.

“Perhaps I was also planning on training, what does it matter?”

“It doesn’t, but you’re on edge. I know. I’m sorry that you weren’t informed of the plan. I’m sorry that you feel this is solely for my benefit. Lady Ningguang insisted that you be brought into this, despite my insistence you needn’t.”

“Ganyu, no. It’s- it’s not your fault. I’m sorry I should’ve been more flexible. If this is what it takes to keep you safe then so be it. I just hope Lady Ningguang will be okay handling the situation by herself.”

“You know, the Millelith can be much more useful than you give them credit for. I trust she will be alright,” Ganyu smilied. “Will you?”

“I will. I promise I won’t work myself too hard,” Keqing smiled reassuringly. It really wasn’t Ganyu’s fault after all. This was just another part of getting to know her coworkers.

---

“I didn’t expect to be staying this long, I didn’t pack enough clothing,” Keqing grumbled to Ganyu as they were heading back to their rooms one day.

“You seem you would be like the first to know when a shopping trip is due. I’m surprised you haven’t made your work down to the market already.”

Keqing pouted. “I can’t really say anything here is exactly my style, however, I will need to make my way there eventually or else I won’t have anything to wear.”

“Are you busy? Perhaps we should go now, I’m in need of a few things myself.”

“I suppose not. Let me go change and I’ll meet you outside in 10 minutes?”

“Of course.”

---

Keqing was hesitant to step outside her comfort zone at first, she had a very specific look, so finding Mondstadt styled clothing was a bit off-putting to her. However, as she and Ganyu perused the various stores the normal thrill came flooding back to her and soon she was stacked with various outfits and accessories. 

Ganyu, in an effort to make Keqing feel more comfortable with her new look, also chose to buy a few new clothes as well, even if just to help her fit in a little more. The horns atop her head didn’t help the stares however. 

After spending most of the day shopping both women were incredibly tired. Keqing, having bought so much, needed Ganyu to assist her with her bags and thus they made a stop at Keqing’s room first to drop off her belongings. 

“Thanks for joining me today, I’m sorry you missed your lunch nap. I- I was a bit nervous about how I’d look in this new style,” Keqing sighed, she was unfamiliar with these anxious feelings. Typically she was so confident but this new situation threw her plan off leaving her scrambling to catch up. 

“Keqing, really I’m sorry that you were forced to come with me. Please don’t worry about my nap, I’ll.. find another way to make up the time. I’m glad that you’re here though. Though I trust Lady Ningguang to rectify the situation, like you, I worry for her as well.”

“You and Ningguang are pretty close.” Keqing didn’t really know where she was going with this. She knew Ganyu would never divulge anything about the stoic and aggravatingly mysterious woman but it was worth a try.

“Yes, her story started much the same as yours. Well, perhaps a few minor differences but she has taken Liyue and built it in incredible ways. It’s been… a dream of mine to see Liyue prosper like this.”

For as long as Keqing has remembered Liyue was always well off, it was the largest port in Teyvat. Granted, the economy had boomed over the last few years, maybe that’s what Ganyu was talking about. Kind of a strange dream for someone so young but Keqing paid it no mind. 

“Have you had Dandelion Wine yet?” Keqing picked up a bottle during their excursion since all of the locals insisted it was a local specialty they had to try.

“No, I will confess I really don’t drink that much though.”

“Would you be interested in trying some? I think you’d likely be fine after just one glass.”

“Err, it’s really getting quite late, I think I’ll have to pass this time.”

“It’s no problem, I’ll save it for later then. Oh but one more thing, can I get your opinion on this? It’ll only take a minute.”

Ganyu closed her eyes and took a deep breath before responding, “Sure.”

---

It was getting quite late. Keqing never did understand the concept of ‘only a minute’. Ganyu was vibrating in anticipation of something.

---

Ganyu could feel her palms begin to sweat. She could feel bestial energy rising up and through her body. She had tried so hard to suppress it all day. Today, more so than she’s had to do in a long time. The impromptu shopping spree with Keqing caused her to miss her lunch which in turn only compounded the energy growing within since that morning. 

She felt her vision begin to blur. Her consciousness faded in between reality and the darkness within. 

She couldn’t do this--she had made so many efforts to never call a mortal.

And yet this is what it was coming down to, the perfect opportunity.

Slowly Ganyu lost herself as the Darkness consumed her mind.

She couldn’t hold it back anymore. 

~“ Keqing ”~

It was very late and Keqing looked like she needed rest. She slightly perked up at hearing her name. 

~~“ Keqing come to me”~~

She looked as though she was warring within herself. It was obvious at this point, somewhere deep in her mind she knew she was being called however whether or not she knew by who was still a mystery. She had let her guard down and that was a tragic mistake.

At the end, her natural instincts won over and she lazily walked over to Ganyu, her eyes glazed over. Unseeing. 

Mortals, train as hard as they want, nothing will stop the power of the Darkness.

.

.

.

Not much longer Keqing was but a heap on the carpet.

Chapter Text

“G-Ganyu?” Keqing rubbed at her eyes in an attempt to get her bearings. The room was dark and she felt like she just rose from the dead. Her memory was foggy at best. What had happened? She remembered spending, what she assumed was yesterday, with Ganyu then they went back to her room to review paperwork. From there, her memories elude her.

Her voice was hoarse and her head was pounding. The last time she felt this bad was after a particularly rough fight that landed her on strict orders of bedrest for a week. She didn’t think she left her room, so how had this happened?

After many futile attempts to stand up, Keqing just settled for rolling onto her back to observe the room. It was almost pitch black though her internal clock told her it was well past sunrise. The room was uninhabited, the only exception being herself. Papers were strewn across the room originating from the desk off towards the corner. If Keqing had to summarize the state of the room, it looked like a fight had broken out. Which would make sense as to why she felt the way she did, but who was she fighting? Perhaps someone had broken in? 

Everything about the situation told her to be careful as everything was likely not as it seemed, and yet she found herself struggling to stand again as she pressed on to find out what happened.

Getting up and out of the room had taken more dexterity and time than Keqing would have liked to admit but she finally made it out and towards the Grand Master’s office.

“Master. Master Jean!” Keqing stumbled through the doorway and into Jean’s office. 

“Lady Keqing, are you alright!? You look, er,” Jean mumbled something but it was lost on deaf ears. Not that Keqing needed confirmation of her current state anyway.

“Ganyu. Have you seen her?”

“Now that you mention it I did see Miss Ganyu early this morning heading towards Cape Oath. I was out for my morning run wh-”

“Thank you!” Normally Keqing would have dashed out the door and gone searching for the other woman however her current display included turning slightly too fast, pushing Jean away and then getting dizzy and almost falling.

“I-I don’t think you’re alright Lady Keqing, please sit before you hurt yourself,” Jean frantically went to support her.

In the short amount of time since the Yuheng arrived, Jean already found it out of character for her to be acting like this. Perhaps she had drunk too much wine last night? She didn’t seem like the type of overindulge however these days, anything was possible. 

Keqing was old enough to make her own decisions but in this state Jean could not allow her to put herself in danger. Cape Oath was quite a ways away and filled with monsters. 

Finally coercing Keqing to sit on her couch, Jean was able to get a good look at her. She had deep thumb size bruises on either side of her neck and scratches along her arms. 

“Were you injured in battle this morning? I can send the knights with you on any future excursions if you’d like?”

Keqing just blinked in response. She was glad she was able to find help and as much as she hated to admit it, sitting felt nice. Why had she been looking for Ganyu anyway? The woman could clearly handle herself and if she had gone out alone it was probably because she wanted to be alone. 

“No,” she drawled. “I don’t know what happened.” Every sentence was said as though she was testing the words in her mouth before speaking them. “I was in my room with Ganyu getting her opinion on something, but then I don’t remember anything after that.”

“You’re injured, let’s clean your wounds up first. Afterwards, we can find Miss Ganyu and ask her what happened.” Despite the two being around the same age Jean’s motherly side made it easy for her to remain leveled headed and comforting. 

Of course Jean would have an entire cabinet of antiseptics and other bandages in her desk drawer. She was a natural healer, it ran in her family. Though, for a Gunnhildr to come up short in any task was unacceptable so everything ran in her family. 

“These look like animal scratches, are you sure you don’t remember coming in contact with any animals in the city yesterday?”

“I- No, I don’t remember anything. I feel like I’m losing even more of the memories I had this morning.” Keqing growled in annoyance. It was incredibly unlike her to be unable to hold herself accountable. 

“It’s okay, I’m sure once we find Miss Ganyu we will be able to piece together everything that happened. From my guess you had a run in with someone’s cat who didn’t take a liking to you. As for these bruises…” Only one thought came to Jean’s mind but she would rather keep it to herself. 

Taking the bandages and wrapping them around Keqing brought far more attention to her arms than before. Jean had a feeling she wouldn’t like that later on but do what she must, lest the wounds become infected. 

“Are you injured anywhere else?”

“No.”

As the GrandMaster, Jean decided it was her responsibility that no one be injured in her city so she instructed that Keqing not leave her office. Preferably, she should rest but Jean felt bad enough ordering the Yuheng around. 

--- 

Finally an hour or so later, Keqing seemed to have given up on trying to stay awake and she fell asleep on the couch. Only a sliver of her dignity was left after the earlier event, what more did she have to lose from sleeping on the couch of another region’s leader while in her presence on a business trip. Honestly, what had she reduced herself to.

Her sleep was fitful to say the least. Perhaps she should have remained awake to spare her from the horrors of her dreams.

---

Keqing blinked beside herself as the lights in the room suddenly went out and the room became pitch black. Ganyu had been somewhere milling around the room, surely she would do something soon.

“Keqing, I’ve been waiting for this day for a long time. The one who criticizes Rex Lapis for abandoning his people. The one who draws borders to keep my servants away from your kind. A prodigal daughter from one of Liyue’s most prosperous families. Yes. I’ve been waiting for this day. You think you’re all that, you think you can escape from the Reign of the Darkness. You can’t. When I want something, I will get it.”

In a flash the disembodied voice grabbed her by the neck and lifted her off the ground. She hissed in retaliation fighting for her right to breathe.

It was still pitch black, she could feel someone close to her face but her eyes betrayed her.

“Even the mighty Yuheng couldn’t resist the sweet charm of my greatest asset. Who would ever think the weak and meager secretary would be my way into the souls of the Qixing. I would have thought that Tianquan would have been more beneficial, but she is useless. An abomination and a waste of my time! I hope you don’t disappoint me in the same way. You serve the Darkness. Now submit!”

Keqing came to her senses and started kicking and flailing around in the death grip. Her breathes were shallow and everything being told her fell on deaf ears. Her hands flew up to the hand on her neck and began clawing however the grip was firm and wouldn’t relent.  She could sense her captor was growing tired of her antics. The one freehand came up in an attempt to calm her flailings. Keqing put all her energy towards avoiding the bindings leaving the entity to scratch down her arms in desperation. 

“Stop!” A voice called out. Keqing thought she recognized the voice but in an instant the hand was released from her neck and she collapsed into a heap on the floor gasping for breath. She coughed herself into a fit and missed the hurried footsteps and door slamming in their wake.

---

Keqing awoke with a start drenched in sweat. Her hard breathing alerted Jean who came rushing over.

“Lady Keqing! Are you alright? What happened?”

“Ganyu, she- the Darkness,” Keqing rasped. She needed to find her now.

---

Keqing’s eyes glazed over as she moved on autopilot out the door. Jean gaped in her wake and went to call the knights.

Jean had said Ganyu went to Cape Oath. Keqing hadn’t been able to find her away around the wilderness surrounding Mondstadt but her body led her without thought.

She felt something resonating within her. Something strange but not entirely unwelcome. Something guiding her to where she needed to be.  

As she got closer the feeling only grew stronger. She could sense Ganyu nearby. The monsters nearby were gathering just like the last time she found Ganyu alone on a mountain. They were more numerous this time but seemed more docile. Like Keqing their eyes glazed over and they seemed to lack control of their own will. Like robots they all marched towards Cape Oath. 

---

Ganyu stood on the precipice between life and death. If she were to take another step would he save her? His hold on her has always been stronger than that of the other adepti. He would say she was integral, we would use her and control her to get what he wanted. It was her fault the Darkness had taken countless members of the Qixing. They were left as just shells of themselves, present only to serve the Darkness. Thoughtless creatures acting to fill their previous roles. 

Had she gone too far this time? What about the last time? And the time before that? 

She was able to stop him from taking Keqing fully but the damage was done. Keqing had been marked and now she would be pursued relentlessly. She would suffer bouts where the Darkness would overcome her. Her life would become a living hell. 

---

“Ganyu, there you are,” Keqing noted monotonously.

“I am. I’m sorry abo- You’ve finally come back. Our little meeting was interrupted last time. But nothing will stand between us now. No little pests.  No mortal consciences. Honestly I didn’t think you would come running so quickly when I called you. You will be a nice addition to my assets. It's only unfortunate you don’t have any adepti blood. ”

“What do you want? I know what you did to me. I can’t say I understand what you’ve done to Ganyu, but let her go.” 

“ What have I done to Ganyu? Oh the naivety! I haven’t done anything to her at all. But it does seem my little girl has been keeping secrets from you. The only reason we’re even talking right now is because within Ganyu flows the blood of an Adeptus. Tainted by that of a damn mortal however. I can make due with what I have.”   

“Adeptus? I think I would have known if Ganyu were an adeptus.”

“Why because she hasn’t called you? Because she walks alongside the mortals? It’s foolish of you to think the Adepti have any real will of their own. I decide when the Adepti call upon mortals. You know nothing, not even so much that a member of your own has been sacrificed. Ganyu, despite her half mortal curse, has been more fruitful than the rest of the Adepti combined.”

Keqing blanched. Is it possible that Ganyu had been an Adeptus this whole time? But. Over the course of time she spent with Ganyu, despite all the strange occurrences, she never even considered Ganyu was the cause of it all. Which, in reality proved nothing.

“Lady Keqing, Miss Ganyu!” The knight's voice rang through the air as she ran over to them. The Darkness quickly retreated leaving Ganyu boneless. 

Keqing’s mind was racing as she looked towards Ganyu’s limp form, but the knights collected the two and quickly escorted them back to the inner city.

Chapter Text

The walk back to the city was silent. Ganyu was unconscious for most of the journey, save for the few short moments of fitful confusion. Keqing felt sick. She wasn’t sure if it was due to the mysterious entity residing in her soul or the newfound knowledge residing in her mind. 

She had to wonder if this entire trip was a set up. Ningguang was an emissary to the Darkness and Ganyu was an Adeptus. A dangerous pairing. They had sent her here on a suicide mission. If not suicide, then sacrifice. But why hadn’t Ganyu taken advantage of her on their travels here? Why wait until the Knights were present?

Keqing was left grasping at fleeting memories as she tried to wrap her mind around the situation. Suddenly the event at the top of the mountain suddenly made more sense. Ganyu must have been calling the Darkness and thus drawing the monsters to her location. Would Ganyu even talk to her about this afterwards? If Ganyu was even real at all. Fear started settling in as she thought about the aftermath of this event. She could feel something off in her soul so she figured this wouldn’t be a one time deal. No, this was going to stick around for a long time. She sighed and increased her pace towards the looming stone city in the distance

---

“What happened back there! I thought we were going to lose you! I don’t even know what I would have told Ningguang if something had happened. Archons I can not think like that. Are you alright?” Jean was pacing around her office. Keqing grunted, if she were being honest Jean was making her dizzy. For someone usually so collected Jean was having a melt down. Figuring she was the more sane one between the two, Keqing let the blonde have her moment to get it out of her system. 

Jean was a worrier, she always had been. These days, as the Acting GrandMaster, that part of her had to be hidden but in certain situations it came out in full force.  If it were to get out that a member of the Qixing had- had--- on her watch, well she would be better off living off the grid. 

Jean’s muttering kept Keqing from getting lost in her own thoughts, but that was probably for the best as she did enough thinking on the way back. Now they were both waiting for word on Ganyu’s condition. Apparently Jean’s sister was a healer so they took her straight to the church for examination. The preliminary report was that she collapsed from exhaustion likely from something extremely taxing. Keqing was forced to accept the results however she was skeptical of those who dedicated themselves to serve and receive knowledge from the Archons. 

In her mind the Archons were just as bad as the Darkness though one was significantly more discreet and in turn regarded much more highly. Unlike Rex Lapis, Mondstadt’s Archon had never been there for his people. He left them to make their own decisions and handle all matters themselves. This was obviously appealing to Keqing, until she saw the state of the Knights. Jean was admirable but overworked, the Outriders were virtually nonexistent and the real GrandMaster had abandoned office. It was amazing the city stayed together at all. 

---

“Master Jean, Lady Keqing,” the deaconess, introduced as the healer Barbara, greeted them politely as she stepped into Jean’s office shutting the door softly.

Keqing sighed in relief, she wasn’t sure how much longer she could just sit and watch Jean spiral. 

“Barbara!” Jean rushed over to her anxious to hear what her fate would be. Though concerned for Ganyu as well in true Jean fashion. “How is she? Was it really just from exhaustion?”

“Je- Master Jean, I assure you she will be fine. Now calm down. You look like you’ve been driving Lady Keqing mad with your pacing. I don’t want you to end up in my care next with an anxiety attack,” Barbara guided Jean to sit at the table and take a few deep breaths. “Lady Keqing, I really came here to talk about what happened. I have a few leads however they seem far fetched. I wanted some more clarity, if you don’t mind of course. I know this could be a sensitive subject.”

“No. I don’t mind. I’m really not quite sure I understand much either though,” Keqing scratched the back of her neck anxiously.  She was used to being put on the spot and yet, now she had never been more unsure of herself. “How familiar are you with Liyuen history?”

“Not much,” both admitted.

“Alright well, I guess I’ll start from the beginning then.”

The Archon war struck tragedy around the world. Leaderless citizens wandering, the spite of dead Gods permeating the air. A war was not won by simply the strongest, or the bravest. A war is won using tactic and skill counter balanced with might. Rex Lapis established an elite force from his own army to protect his people and land from the bitterness left by the lost. The Adeptus he called them. He gave them power unlike any mortal and developed them into a species all their own.  The brutes could not accept defeat, they infected the world, targeting the Adepti whose power had grown close to their own, that of a God. The name of their leader has  long since been forgotten though he has manifested into that which we call the Darkness. He’s been successful in capturing and torturing the souls of the Adepti to which, there are no pure ones left. They’re soulless creatures whose only mission is to convert mortals.

“And still I wonder…”

“Are you indicating that you encountered the Darkness today?”

“Yes, however there is more than just that. I didn’t realize it until today but, Ganyu is an Adeptus.” Keqing stared at the air in front of her, still taking in that revelation. The thought distressed her. “We,” she looked pained as she squeaked out the rest, “have to exercise caution.”

Barbara and Jean’s eyes looked as though they were about to come out of their sockets and their faces went pallor. 

Jean came to and leapt from her seat on a mission to assemble the guard. 

Barbara still looked like she was about to pass out.

---

What had she done? Was Ganyu really as dangerous as she made her sound? The soft natured woman she knew from before was a monster. And by that logic, they had to be careful, right? But she had been able to hide her identity for this long. And yet the words kept echoing in the back of her mind. It’s foolish of you to think the Adepti have any real will of their own.

By the time she made her way to the church, a squadron of knights were already positioned outside, fully armed. It made her stomach flip. 

Upon entering, she found groups of sisters whispering amongst themselves. Word certainly spreads fast. It was for the best she reassured herself. 

Finding no resistance as she ventured towards the room, though it looked more like a jail cell now, where Ganyu was being kept, she steeled herself for what she knew was to come. She reminded herself she was not speaking with who she thought, but rather the entity parading around as a sweet, gentle, kind soul she thought she knew. 

Curled into a small ball, a small pile of fluff laid in the corner. Upon closer inspection, the creature had small red horns atop it’s head indicating the identity of the fluffy being. Ganyu cracked one eye open when she heard some approaching. Seeing that it was Keqing, she ran over to the edge of the cell. 

“Lady Keqing! What happened!? Why am I in a cell?” Ganyu pleaded with tears in her eyes. 

“I see you’ve decided to show me her true form,” Keqing responded coldly not looking directly into the other’s eyes.

“H-huh? I can explain!”

“Talk to me you coward! I’m here now and I want answers.” Keqing was yelling now. Ganyu cowered slightly. Keqing was frequently angry, yes,  but she never lost her cool so this was unexpected.

“O-okay, I’m sorry! I should have tol-”

“Don’t fuck with me. I know you can hear. I won’t fall for this act anymore,” Keqing stood and motioned towards Ganyu. 

It didn’t take much longer for Ganyu to realize Keqing wasn’t addressing her. She was yelling at seemingly nothing. 

“Lady Keqing it’s me, Ganyu! He’s not here. It’s just me this time,” she cried. Keqing had abandoned sanity much quicker than Ganyu had imagined possible. She would have thought her typical headstrong attitude would have protected her. But, no, all mortals turned out the same. It was a shame.

“Stop toying with me!” She was losing it. 

She was losing it.

It didn’t take long for the Knights to sense a commotion inside and to come running in, swords bared. 

“What’s happening here? Lady Keqing are you alright?”

Keqing kept yelling, kicking and screaming as the Knights decided they best remove her and send her for an examination. 

---

The lights were far too bright. Barbara was fluttering around like a damn fairy. Where the hell was she? 

She didn’t sense that she got the answers she wanted. So why was she here?

“Oh good you’re awake. I was worried for a minute.”

“Awake?”

“Um, yes, the Knights,” Barbara paused unsure of what to say next. “The Knights found you in a state of hysteria while visiting Ganyu and the only course of action to calm you was to, they had to I suppose, you-”

Keqing deadpanned, “What?”

“Well, they had to sedate you,” Barbara squeaked. 

“What the hell!? I’m not insane!” Keqing snapped. She stewed for a moment before ultimately sighing. She hadn’t felt much like herself recently. Is this what it’s come to? They had to dart her like an animal? 

She was repulsed. The quicker she could leave and return to Liyue the better. The only problem with that, was dealing with Ninguang who undoubtedly was going to give her hell for it. Ningguang, a fully converted emissary for the Darkness. Of course.

“I think it would be best for you to speak with Ganyu again. During my daily exam, she seemed to be back to herself. She asked about you and made me promise to take good care of you.”

“That’s not her. He uses her as his mouth piece. She doesn’t have a soul anymore. She’s just a vehicle. Useless.” Keqing could feel the bitterness of their last encounter lace her voice. How dare he play with her like that. 

“Even so, perhaps you may seek the answers you so desperately want. Perhaps, you should not look for ulterior motives next time.” Barbara spoke with years of wisdom despite physically being a young girl.

“Perhaps.” Keqing was not impressed. No way was she going to talk to that thing again. If he wanted to talk he would have to come to her. And she knew he would.

--- 

Have you missed me? I heard that you wanted to talk to me today. Made quite a scene about it too. Cute. 

Don’t call me that.

What do you wish to say now that I’m here?

Why were you playing with me today? I know you were using her.

Using her? Ganyu? That damn halfling. No, unfortunately I was not there today. Other business calls.

Other business? That’s disgusting. But, if you weren’t there how was she talking?

…

No comment, eh?

That matter is unimportant.

No it's not. Ganyu has free will. Say it.

No she doesn’t.

You’re bluffing. 

Even if I were, I can control her at any time I wish. She is nothing without me. I own her. 

But you didn’t when I went to see her today.

I didn’t have any business with you.

And yet, here you are in my dream.

Your kind is insufferable. 

---

Keqing woke with a start. Oh, what had she done… If Ganyu had her own free will--and now she was locked away. Keqing’s heart beat out of her chest at the implications of what she'd done. Mondstadt was essentially locked down due to the internal threat. Jean was more haggard that usual. She had been constantly in communication with Ningguang on the matter. Keqing didn’t want to think about how that was going given Ningguang’s alignment. 

Not wanting to spend anymore time on the matter Keqing flew from her bed, hastily dressing and running though the barren streets towards the church. 

The Knights guarding the entrance gave each other wary glances before allowing her entry. She paid no mind to the Knight accompanying her for safety measures. 

Stumbling over her own feet when she spotted the small fluffy girl curled into herself. Keqing hoped she was sleeping for her own good, she needed it, but again she intended on waking her so it would have been a moot point.

“Ganyu!”

Sleepily she raised her head and blinked a few times before seemingly registering who was calling her. She opened her mouth to speak.

I told you Keqing. Any. Time.