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Zhongli breathes a sigh of relief as she finally manages to settle herself on her perch near the window, overlooking the vast frozen ocean and the entire city of Morepesok. Her long, amber-tipped brown hair flutters lightly in the frigid wind as she curls up slightly and pulls her husband’s thick winter coat tighter over her shoulders. No matter how long she stays in the proud nation of Snezhnaya, she just couldn’t seem to fully acclimate to the cold, although she finds she no longer minds it as much. According to her husband, the cold gives her a ‘pretty flush’—whatever that means. Compared to Liyue’s warmer climate, the seemingly eternal winters in Snezhnaya are a jarring shock to her senses.

Her musings must have taken quite some time as she suddenly feels her bulging stomach getting stroked by a warm, calloused yet gentle hand. Ah, her husband is awake. Zhongli slowly turns her head away from the view and towards her spouse of two years, who wears the gentlest expression on his face. His eyes crinkles with delight when his gaze catches hers, and he quickly swoops in to kiss her gently. One kiss on her lips, the other at the top of her belly, clearly meant for the growing life within her. At this gesture, her heart skips a beat and she allows herself to be manhandled onto his lap.

Childe’s hair is always messy, even on a normal day. His disheveled auburn locks paired with long lashes, deep blue eyes, and playful smirks are a dangerous combination for the hearts of all the ladies in Teyvat. Once, those smirks had been freely given, but nowadays, the look is solely reserved for Zhongli. Especially when he is in the mood to show just how much he loves the feeling of having their flushed skin intertwined; sweaty and hot.
“You’re up so terribly early, baobei,” the man whispers against her neck, peppering kisses until his lips settle on the freshly blooming bruise on her collarbone.
Ever weak for her demanding husband, Zhongli closes her eyes, mouth opening to let out a soft moan at the sensation. “Not on my own accord, dearest,” she says with a sigh, placing her hand on top of Childe's much larger hand that was resting on her round belly. “Our young one seems to share your enthusiasm and wishes to see the world at the earliest.” That earns her a husky chuckle.

“Seeing you full with our child, makes me reminisce, you know?” Childe starts, eyes fixed on her own amber ones with so much love and adoration. Zhongli is sure that the same could be seen in hers. “I think about the first time we met in Stone Gate. I remember how you have struck me dumb with your beauty. I couldn’t look at anything else, save for you.”

Ah, yes. It has been three years since that fateful day. Zhongli still remembers the day as if it were yesterday.

Three years ago….

Zhongli, the youngest in the imperial line of Liyue’s Qixing, adhered to the strict regime befitting her role of Imperial princess. Despite her apparent insignificance to the succession, she was expected to contribute her share to Liyue’s prosperity. Therefore she took on the mantle of generalship, after proving herself most proficient in martial arts among her imperial siblings.
Havria, the eldest, is a gentle, mild-mannered soul with a natural talent for weaving and embroidery. Widely considered to be the greatest beauty in Liyue, she has their father’s rich dark hair and their mother’s light blue eyes.
Osial, their second eldest, took most of their mother’s genes. From his rich blue hair to the oceanic blue eyes. He was the one who had initiated Zhongli in the art of warfare as he controlled the defense of the empire’s naval borders.
Guizhong was the third eldest and next in line to the throne; having earned this title for her superior intellect. Her inventions helped the empire from defense down to the smallest trifles of Liyuen life. Although she had a wild temper, this contrasted with her calm and elegant appearance paired with amber-tipped platinum hair and amber eyes.
Azhdaha was the older of the twins, gifted with a calm and collected countenance and a talent for fine craftsmanship. Their older siblings believed him to be the more responsible of the twins, based on the numerous times he had to bail his bull-headed younger twin from trouble. He is a strong warrior and, between him and his twin, most resembled their father who sported wide shoulders, above average height, brown hair with amber tips, and warm golden eyes.

Zhongli grew up in a strict yet loving family. Protected and cared for by her siblings, who seemed unwilling to let her go even as she reached the proper age for matrimony. Her own twin recently tied the knot with the son of one of Liyue’s noble families. Perhaps it was fate deciding to be kind to their family, by having a dear sister apathetic to romance of any kind—
For the time being, at least.

Their first meeting took place on the border between Liyue and Mondstadt, only days after an important conference between the Fatui and the Knights of Favonius. Zhongli remembered that her father had been invited as a spectator and be a third party to the negotiations and contracts. She hid in plain sight, donning one of her more humble dresses and browsed the goods at the merchants' stalls in Stone Gate. The people of Liyue knew of their absent minded princess, who was never able to pay without her twin escorting her. This time, they all took note of Azhdaha's absence and knew to forward her bills to the royal finance department.
"Fascinating. It would be a shame not to buy it," Zhongli said, admiring the beautiful pair of cor lapis in her hands. As she made an attempt to finalize the transaction, she flushed at the realization that she had once again forgotten to bring her mora.
"Ah,'' she sighed dejectedly, returning the wares. "It seems I forgot to bring mora."
A few paces away from the stall in question stood a tall, hooded figure. Their thick, fur-lined black coat indicated that they hailed from the colder regions of Teyvat. The figure, who had been watching the scenario from the side, snickered at the hilarity of the situation, then made their way to pay for the items.
"I'll pay for the lovely lady," they said with all the confidence in the world.
The lady turned and spotted a ravishing stranger about her age. His skin was as fair as freshly fallen snow, deep ocean blue eyes paired with rust-colored hair, a lone tuft of blond hair sticking out valiantly in his messy hair. Though they were about the same height, she felt small compared to his broad stature. Nevertheless, she remained steadfast, even though the sight made her breath catch. Zhongli could almost hear the beating of her heart.

It took Zhongli a few blinks to make sure that her heartbeat could not be heard by the man. Her face still sporting a beautiful flush. "Ah, you need not have paid," she said with a delicate cough. "But I appreciate your generosity, mister ...?"
"Childe," the foreigner managed to stutter out as he nervously rubbed the back of his neck after a few moments of silence. His face turned a pretty rose hue as he held out his recent purchase into the small but remarkably calloused hands of the lady.

"Childe," Zhongli echoed, her eyes sparkling in delight. "You have my most sincere gratitude." She bowed as the merchants began whispering amongst themselves with a smile.

So one could imagine the shock of the Imperial family when one fine day, their sweet meimei came home with the most beautiful flush on her face, a pair of the most lustrous cor lapis held in her hands.
“Meimei...are you alright?” Havria, the first sibling to quickly recover from shock, stepped forward to shakily grip Zhongli’s arm. “Did something happen? Were you separated from Azhdaha?”
The mention of her twin pulled the youngest princess from her reverie, and she flushed even more in embarrassment and looked around to find out that Azhdaha had not yet returned. Probably, she had been too preoccupied with browsing the many stores in Stone Gate to notice that she had indeed been separated from her twin. The situation was exacerbated by Zhongli's preoccupation with a foreigner, of all things. “It appears… that I have separated from him,” she admits with a sheepish smile.
Guizhong was the next to recover from her shock, shaking her head before standing up. “Nevermind that,” the platinum-haired princess said, eyeing the pair of cor lapis suspiciously. “How could you have purchased the finest pair of cor lapis without Azhdaha? You never have your wallet on your person.”

Zhongli tilted her head to the side. “A nice gentleman paid for it for me,” she replied with a smile before relaying what happened earlier.
“A man,” Osial sucked in a breath through his teeth, “paid for your purchase without asking for anything in exchange.” Various scenarios occurred to him of what a woman and a man might do together.
Guizhong shook him out of his increasingly salacious imaginings with a harsh slap across the face.

“ZHONGLI-MEIMEI!” Azhdaha all but screamed as he rushed into the room, nearly knocking over his twin and eldest sister, who was still clinging to the former. His eyes were wide, earth-brown hanfu dirtied with mud, and he was sweating profusely, as if he ran around the entire harbor then back to the palace. Holding his younger twin sister tightly, he continued to shake her. “Where have you been? I’ve been looking all over for you!”

The youngest princess became dizzy when her twin shook her so violently that she clung tightly to his bicep to steady herself. “I am quite alright. I did get lost rummaging in Stone Gate, but as you can see,” she motioned to herself, “I am completely fine. I met a nice gentleman who paid for my purchase. He was quite the generous fellow. Look, aren’t these the prettiest cor lapis you’ve ever seen? It is extremely difficult to mine cor lapis in the wild, much less such something as lustrous as this!”

Zhongli presented the pair of cor lapis in her hands, the items glowing faintly under the light. “And to top it off, they share the exact shape, size, and weight. It would have been a shame not to purchase it.”
The siblings gazed at the stones, then back at her who was wearing such a tender look on her face, skin flushing lightly.
Azhdaha composed himself, sighed, and settled down on one of the available chairs in the room. “You’re right, meimei,” he glared at the stones as if they had caused him great offense. “Those are beautiful.”
The elder siblings followed him to settle on chairs, eyes blazing with protectiveness. Assured only that whoever paid for the items were too put off by the amount they had to foot to ever possibly try doing so again.

Only three days later, Zhongli and Childe met again. This time at the Wangshu Inn, which was built in a wondrous tree and was one of the most prestigious hotels in Liyue, which also housed one of Zhongli's personal bodyguards—a group she lovingly called her "yakshas". Zhongli often frequented this place to visit the only yaksha who had not yet retired from imperial service. The warrior princess donned a beautiful floor-length white-gold qipao with intertwined bronze and gold ornaments and a golden hood adorned with dragon scales, which made a striking impression among the guests at the distinguished inn.

Wangshu inn, the only standing and functioning establishment in the area, stood tall and proud against the vast Guili Plains. A magnificently designed building perched atop an ancient ginkgo tree. One of the most prestigious accommodations in Liyue. The roots were adorned with elegantly manicured lawns, silk flowers, lanterns, and an outdoor dining area for the various stalls offering a multitude of cuisines. Over the years, it had hosted many foreign dignitaries from all over Teyvat, including a prince from the Land of Frost.

“Milady!” The man in a silver and gray military uniform adorned with sharp, onyx embellishments and a fire red scarf called out, forcibly making his way to the princess with confident strides that perplexed and stunned the onlookers.
Puzzled, she turned around before her face broke out in a smile of delight, her goal of reaching the room of her last Yaksha temporarily pushed out of her mind.
“Childe,” she greeted once they were within arm’s length of each other. “It’s a pleasant surprise to see you again,” Zhongli said.
Childe sucked in a breath at the sight before tenderly tucking the strands behind her ear, a soft flush on his cheeks. “You jest, milady. Surely you didn’t think that we won’t meet again?”
Zhongli hid an amused giggle behind her fist. “One dare not decipher the whims of fate,” she breathed out, her eyes twinkling with mirth. It has only been a few days since she saw this man, but to be honest, she never imagined they would meet again. Fate must have been merciful and allowed it to happen. She tried hard not to think how romantic the setting was, the soft music filtering through the vast hallways, the sun casting golden rays on their skins, and the delicate scent of silk flowers from the garden down below.
“Fate, huh?” Childe grinned as he guided the princess towards the balcony. “I came here after hearing the news of a, quote ‘stunning lady with beautiful golden eyes’, presuming that it might be the lady who almost emptied my wallet.”

Cheekily, he leaned against the railing and pressed his face against his palm. "Of whom, by the way, I haven’t yet learned the name."

“Ah,” Zhongli blushed with embarrassment, placing her hands on either side of her face. “How improper of me!” Quickly she recomposed herself before meeting her companion’s blue eyes.

“I go by many names but you may call me Z—” The brunette quickly shut her mouth. Revealing her royal origins could attract unwanted attention, not to mention possibly scaring away the man she has grown increasingly fond of. ”—Rex Lapis,” ended the princess with a beaming face..
It was the title of a mythical half-dragon, half-qilin who had sculpted the landscape of Liyue. Her family used to call her that because she was naturally fierce and gentle at the same time. She liked the title so much that she made it her personal emblem.

"Rex Lapis," Childe echoed, testing the sound of the word in his own voice. "Sounds regal," he concluded, and then he quickly grabbed her right hand and pressed a kiss to her knuckles as he knelt down slightly, his figure a perfect sign that he came from a noble background.

If asked, Zhongli would’ve been embarrassed at how easily Childe managed to get her off her actual schedule for the day. Much like he did on many days after that. Though, she really couldn't say no when he offered to pay the bill each time. A little later, they dined in front of the Wangshu Inn, where they had ordered Liyuen delicacies along with some Snezhnayan snacks. While waiting for the food, they chatted animatedly. In the process, she learned something else about her companion: he was from Snezhnaya. Childe told her about his homeland, how the lush evergreens contrast starkly with the pristine white snow. Extensive mountain ranges serve as natural protection against possible invaders. Throughout the land are small villages inhabited by hardy and close-knit communities. He told her that her people were strong and tough to endure the biting cold, but their hearts were full and warm.
Zhongli, looking into his handsome face lit up by happy stories, believes him wholeheartedly.

"Our women are strong," Childe told her, pausing briefly as a waiter served them food. "They hunt and feed not only their own family, but the whole community."The brunette princess nodded and handed Childe the chopsticks as she began nibbling from her crystal shrimp. "Liyuen women are, I think, a little more petite compared to your women, but we are just as industrious and excellent at housekeeping, and even inventive." If she noticed him fidgeting with the chopsticks, she didn't say so, but instead corrected his grip with a slight smile.

Before she could retract her hand, however, Childe gripped it firmly but retained a measure of tenderness. Slowly, he ran his thumb across her calloused palm, tracing the faint marks of scars that healed but not quite disappeared, rough skin honed in the heat of the battlefield. There was almost something reverent about his touch, and Zhongli felt her body react with heat, making her blush like never before. It reminded her of her own parents, of lovers in the streets of Liyue Harbor exchanging soft loving whispers. His finger continued its exploration while his other hand reached for her other hand holding the chopsticks. She chalked up her willingness to curiosity. It was much harder to explain how she felt the moment he brought her palms to his lips. Not quite a kiss, but a whisper of skin on skin. The gesture was enough to send an electric shock shooting down her spine and cause her nerves to burst into flames. Her golden eyes met with his oceanic blue ones.
“You need not resort to this level of teasing to mask your inability to use the chopsticks,” she said as she noticed the mirth in his eyes.

“We barely knew each other and yet you seem to know me already!” Childe guffawed, still holding on to her hands even as he threw his head back in glee. His snow white skin contrasted prettily against the rosen hue on his face. She secretly wondered if it was normal for someone to be this captivated….this fond….towards a person she met only two days ago.

“Your highness,” Xiao, the last of the Yakshas bowed, clad in his modified military regalia of a white and indigo hanfu with one of the sleeves cut off to reveal his intricate teal tattoos which seem to glow underneath the moonlight. “One is most grateful that you have graced me with your presence.”

Zhongli gently took Xiao by the shoulders and pulled him up to a stand. “Lift your head, my friend. I apologize for the wait.”

The last of the Yakshas obliged his liege, to whom he owed his life after being rescued from a slaver. He had been so young then, but he dedicated his life to her. He would not dare question her or her decisions, even when he had to bear witness with what could be one of the most awkward public displays of affection.

Their third meeting took place in Guyun Stone Forest, in the outskirts of Osial’s territory. Zhongli’s eldest brother was busy settling the pirate-overridden sea trade route that has been hampering trade in Liyue so Zhongli was sent in to clean up the sudden resurgence of ruin guards and treasure hoarders down the southwest, leading the charge of a small but elite troop of men alongside Xiao. As the ten ruin guards roared to life and began to attack, pandemonium erupted. It was almost impossible to decipher one ruin guard from the other. She could feel her men beginning to falter at the onslaught of attacks, made worse when she was knocked off her horse.

Zhongli did not panic, but rolled securely on her feet, deftly dodging the combination of physical attacks and projectiles thrown her way. Hollering to her troops to refocus, Zhongli’s command pierced through the chaos and echoed by her Yaksha who expertly threw his spear in the ‘eye’ of a downed ruin guard. She parried attack after attack, redirecting projectiles to other ruin guards with flicks of her polearm. Maintaining their formation and defending her incapacitated troops. Any man or even hardened generals would have cowered in fear at such enemies. The combination of the ancient machines and the sheer number of pesky treasure hoarders trying to fan the flames of pandemonium. Unlucky for them, Zhongli does not shake nor cower in the face of any opponent.

“I’m quite miffed that you decided to start without me,” A voice called from afar, awfully familiar to Zhongli despite the hustle and bustle of metals and gears and groans. A flash of red, silver, and black whizzed past her, effectively parrying off an arrow that was aimed at Zhongli’s head. Against her better judgement, a wave of affection surged through her as the face turned to grace her with tantalizing blue eyes lit up by the thrill of chaos. “Milady, you look stunning as ever.”

Zhongli rolled her eyes as she deftly moved to press her back against his as if it was a natural thing to do. “My, my. We do not usually invite civilians into these things,” she said as she swiped at a ruin guard’s knee, leaving it open for Childe to land the final blow. His movements were fluid and held a grace that hid the sheer amount of strength in his blows. He constantly shifts from a pair of swallow, a spear, and finally, a bow of which from the sound alone, the princess knew had to take a lot of strength to notch. How and where he stored those weapons were a mystery to her, and by the raised brow on Xiao’s face, he was, too.

Together, the three of them steadily made work of the ruin guards, dwindling their number until the last fell to a direct stab on the eye by Zhongli’s polearm. By that point, the treasure hoarders began to scurry away in fear. When the ginger-haired man, sweaty and a bit scuffed up, but obviously still raring to go, moved to chase the fleeing treasure hoarders, Zhongli motioned for Xiao to stop the much taller man.

“We have secured the area. There is no need for you to pursue them,” Zhongli sternly said, folding her arms below her chest, unconsciously puffing her ample breasts. And Childe, being a weak man, shamefully trailed his eyes down before he was painfully kicked in the groin by an indignant Xiao, a look of utter disgust in the raven-haired Yaksha’s face. The absolute pain in Childe’s voice as he howled and curled up, his knees growing weak before he face-planted himself on the ground, kicking up dust as he did so.

“.....noted,” The ginger managed to squeak out as rolled onto his side to look at Zhongli’s worried face. Despite the gravity and tenseness of their current situation, Zhongli was able to laugh, ruffling Childe’s hair affectionately before moving along to inspect her troops and help in treating the injured. He couldn’t help but trail his eyes on her backside, earning another kick from the Yaksha who has yet to recover from disgust.

“Milady has a weird taste,” Xiao mumbled out as he followed after her, but not before landing yet another kick on the fallen Childe.

In the end, Xiao decided to double check the perimeter once he found his mistress gravitating to the foreigner once more, having ensured the conditions of all people involved are stable and no one is in critical condition aside from the aforementioned foreigner’s testicles.

“A little birdie told us that you have been seeing someone,” Guizhong stated tightly, eye twitching as she tried to keep her face neutral. When the Imperial siblings found out that not only was the foreign man not dissuaded from making any more purchases, but he was actively seeking her out at every opportunity. “I would have thought that after the enormous amount of mora he has to pour onto your whims, he would have been less keen on….well, seeing you again.”

Zhongli, who had been applying rouge on her eyes, froze before slowly setting down her brush on her vanity. “I would assume it means he enjoys my company? And his name is Childe.”

The four siblings looked at each other in alarm. Sirens mentally blaring in their head. "Who was this Childe?" They furiously asked telepathically.

"I would like to wear something blue, it compliments his eyes," Zhongli said with a sweet smile, turning to her siblings who immediately jumped away from each other. "Azhdaha, do we still have this kind of fabric from the last time we went out?" Gesturing to a piece of silk sitting on her vanity.

Osial, Guizhong, and Havria took turns slapping the back of Azhdaha, who stood still as a rock. "Uh," was his intelligent reply.

Osial choked in his seat, his left hand holding an ice pack against his bloodied nose. An injury he acquired after one pirate had gotten bold enough to board his ship and hit him in the face. Infuriated and silently cursing himself for giving Childe the opportunity to see his beloved youngest sister, Osial seethed. He was still wearing the white robes he had been wearing from the infirmary, having all but dashed once Havria informed him of Zhongli’s frequent outings. “Men cannot be trusted. Especially ginger men who seem to be too battle happy.”

Azhdaha finished polishing the hairpin he fashioned from the cor lapis his twin had been given and handed it to her, delighted at the pleased look she gave him but also miffed that someone has been boldly hitting on her. Truthfully, if they ever truly wanted to get rid of the man, they could. Foreigner or not. But the political temperature has been tense for some time between Liyue and Snezhnaya, and the slightest move could set off a series of events that might get out of their control. Following Zhongli’s description, her admirer could be of noble Snezhnayan descent.

Havria shook her head before squeezing Zhongli’s hands and handing her a floor-length royal blue qipao, decorated with light blue metallic cherry blossom patterns. “Don’t be ridiculous, Osial,” the youngest replied petulantly.

“We’re just looking out for you, meimei,” Guizhong said placatingly, noticing how tense the brunette’s shoulders have been throughout the conversation. “We barely know the man. With the state of politics right now, everything is uncertain. You haven’t even told him your real identity and I would bet he hasn’t been forthright with his as well!”

Zhongli lowered her head, running her fingers through Azhdaha’s excellent craftsmanship. “What difference does it make? Knowing our real identities have nothing to do with how we enjoy each other’s company,” her eyes began to water, threatening to spill but she valiantly held it off. “I just….don’t want to scare him off by revealing my status. It would hurt if we suddenly lose contact over such a thing.”

The siblings collectively looked at each other before sighing. None of them expected Zhongli meimei to be this attached to the foreigner. She was obviously fond, and to their horror, began to show signs of being smitten. None of them had the courage to tell her that she was already betrothed. A political alliance ensured peace between Liyue and Snezhnaya. A contract to be sealed with a kiss.

~

Childe loudly slurped his noodles as quickly as he could, given how his hand was shaking in a valiant effort to hold his chopsticks. “So you mean to tell me that you are named after this Rex Lapis who threw some stones and voila we got Guyun Stone Forest?”

Zhongli stared at the ginger for quite some time, noting how laid back his attire was. A thin burgundy hanfu with haphazard black fabrics cinching his strong waist. He was still wearing his Snezhnayan military boots, though, which almost ruined the otherwise overall Liyuen attire he was wearing. She herself was wearing something more modest- the blue qipao managed to catch his eyes the moment they saw each other again. Pretending Zhongli did not feel how his hands were itching to wrap around her waist, or the way he couldn’t stop running his eyes over her body, she allowed Childe to think that he was being discreet. Shameless. She also tried to swallow down the giddy feeling she felt when she found out his hands could easily meet around her waist.

“Fascinating. You speak Fontainean, too?” The brunette chose to reply instead, daintily sipping her tea.

“Hey!” the man whined, sitting up straighter as he pointed the chopsticks at her. She supposes it was to intimidate her. Sadly, the poor grip caused the smattering of various toppings to hit his face. “I will let you know that I am a diplomat. The best...diplomat there is….from my roster,” As he began saying that, his lips wobbled and he began to falter until his voice was barely above a murmur. Zhongli is terribly endeared.

“I’m sure you are,” she finally said, eyes crinkling as a smile broke out of her face. The brunette hastily took a napkin before gently wiping her diplomat friend’s face down. “As I was saying, not only did Rex Lapis forged the landscape of Guyun but he also did so for the majority of Liyuen geography. For example, Huaguang stone forest….”

The conversation trailed to a background noise as the princess continued to throw a multitude of information down at the man, completely unaware of a star struck face he was wearing since she broke out in a smile.

Zhongli knew her duty and she knew it well. She, like any of her siblings, had a role to play. And that includes securing political alliances. She would have accepted her lot more graciously had she not met Childe. Afterall, most of her life was bound by duty to Liyue, anyway. But her relationship with Childe was different. It was neither bound by obligation or political gain. Their relationship was just….that- a friendship born out of their mutual desire to be in each other’s company. A relationship that she has been itching to change, for some reason. After the amount of time they have spent, the stories they exchanged under the moonlight, the innocent touch of skin on skin, the ghost of his lips hovering just a hair’s breadth away from her ear. The latter driving her light-headed and hot all over. She could no longer deny that she wants more, even as she rocks her brain in an attempt to answer what more could she even want in the first place.

Zhongli lovingly stroked the new addition to Childe's extravagant gifts to her- a delicately carved silver ring with a narwhal center piece whose eye was engraved with an exquisite piece of lapis lazuli.

"Silver to me is as gold is to you," Zhongli could remember his shy words. "My homeland is blanketed in snow and rich in silver. Lapis lazuli is the gem of the ocean," Childe looked up at her, his rough fingers running through the back of her hand. "And the narwhal is my personal emblem. This is to....to si-signify....that I.....that I'm..." His face was flushed and was running a hand through his nape, a nervous cadence to his voice.

Zhongli then tilted her head to the side, amused at the rich shade of red that coloured her companion's face. "It means that I get to keep a part of you," she said, blushing at the implication. Zhongli removed her necklace, having in it an engraving of a proud half-dragon, half-qilin.

"With this, you get to keep a part of me, too," she said, eyes twinkling in delight and adoration.

Lost in her memories, Zhongli unconsciously placed a loving kiss on the narwhal, eyes closing at the thought of their impending reunion.Childe had to be recalled back to Snezhnaya to settle a business regarding the Northland Bank, which he was managing as part of his service to the Tsaritsa.

"Meimei," Zhongli was pulled out of her reverie by a gentle touch on her elbow. It was Havria. As usual, the raven haired beauty looked impeccable in her snow white hanfu with hints of baby blue silkflower patterns. "We have to talk. You haven't been yourself lately. And we're all worried about you."

In her periphery, the brunette could spot Osial and Azhdaha leaning on the corridor, looking a little shaken, which was ridiculous considering their height and build. She would have laughed had she been in her usual tranquil state of mind. Unfortunately, the recent events have been far too hard for her to swallow and she could only muster a small smile. Guizhong most probably have been told to stay in the meeting room to polish off the wedding arrangements and or whether or not a prenuptial agreement must be enforced.

"I apologize…I'm just not in the best headspace at the moment. Would you allow me some time and space to ponder for a while?" Zhongli gave her siblings a pleading look, fists balled tightly at the hem of her gold hanfu. She doesn't know what to do. For all intents and purposes, she was lost. Just imagining a life away from her beloved Liyue or days without seeing the smile on Childe's face- days without his hand in hers. It was hard to believe that she managed to live without those in the first place.

Havria gave their youngest a quick look before turning to the boys still leaning on their hiding spot. Then, she let out a sigh before taking Zhongli's hand in hers. "I understand. Do you…..need to get away for a while?" To which the younger enthusiastically nodded before breaking away on a sprint.

"Havria!!!!" Osial all but shrieked. "Are you out of your mind? You know full well that she will go running up to that foreigner again and we agreed that we will not give them any more opportunities to do so!"

"I think it's a little too late for that," Azhdaha commented as he saw his twin sprint across the hallway. "I think...she has fallen in love." He grit his teeth as he said. Wanting nothing more than to skin the pesky 'ginger with ocean blue eyes' alive for even daring to stay close to Zhongli.

Was she in love?

The question kept running around Zhongli's head as she paced back and forth in her and Childe's usual meeting spot- a discreet outcrop of land on the corner of Luhua Pool. From this point, they could have a stunning view of the sunset, and the star-studded Liyuen night sky. If Childe so desires it, they could even take a swim in the cool waters of the pool. The place was concealed by ginkgo trees that provide ample shade for when Zhongli decided she wanted to curl up, read a book, or sing to birds.

She enjoyed Childe's company, that’s undeniable. She adores his laugh- the way he snorts when he realized Zhongli was concealing her irateness in the polite words she blurted out. She adored his smile, how it lit up everything in his face save for his eyes which must have seen a lot of turmoil to lose their luster. The princess found that she doesn't mind as much. Not when she could easily lose herself looking into those deep pools. Not when those eyes never wavered from her when they were together. Her heart was beating faster than normal in his presence, more so when she could feel his hands on her. It didn’t matter where it was. It could be on her hair or her hand, and more frequently, on her waist. But would that constitute as love?

Zhongli curled in on herself, her eyes trained on the ring Childe had given her. She was at a loss- torn between obligation and desire to be in the company of the man she was fond of.

“I’ve never seen you this melancholy,” a familiar voice piped out of the blue that got the brunette to shoot up slightly in alarm. A huge hand twined against hers, warm and comforting as she was led to sit back down. Childe gazed at her tenderly before speaking up again. “I left you for a bit and you turned into a lovesick maiden? Where has my powerful Rex Lapis gone?”

“Still here,” Zhongli muttered, looking away for a bit as she felt her heart race. His Rex Lapis? She should be miffed at the blatant indicator of possessiveness but to her embarrassment, she found she liked it. To be his, what a thought. Spending days and nights with him- in his arms would be delightful, indeed. “Did my Childe miss me so? It has only been a few days,” She smirked playfully.

To the princess’s absolute delight, the auburn haired man erupted in a whole body flush, made much more obvious in contrast to his fair skin, his mouth opening a closing but no sound ever came out. What a sight. He made an attempt to move away from her but she held his hand firmly. “Stay?” She asked him, but her eyes had moved from him to the rapidly setting sun- she hadn’t noticed the time in her solitude and the moment the diplomat arrived, it felt like time froze in place.

The ground trembled a bit with the force with which Childe sat himself with, eyes following to where Zhongli’s eyes were focused on. “I don’t know. Were you talking to me or the sun? Because I can’t tell which one of us you’re asking to stay,” he responded. “But just so you know, the sun will not yield to yours or to anyone’s whims. I, on the other hand,” his voice quieted down as he slowly cupped the brunette’s chin, turning her face to look at him and only him. “Will do whatever you want me to do. So dear Rex Lapis, what do you ask of me?”

Zhongli sucked in a breath as her warm, amber eyes locked on his deep blue gaze. Between the sun and his eyes, there was never a question on which one she’d rather see. “Stay…...stay with me,” she faltered at her next request. “And if you are amenable to it, a kiss.”

The moment the sun kissed the sea, casting rays of warm light over Liyue, so did his lips and hers. “Anything for you, and so much more, my love.” He whispered against her lips, passion and want blazing in his eyes, heat enveloping their bodies as they craved for more. This was dangerous territory, she knew, but it was getting harder and harder to ignore the desire running through her veins. Boldly, she ran her hands over his core, one hand moving up to his chest and around his shoulders, the other stayed, fingers running against the exposed skin of his side.

“No,” Childe extricated his lips from her, leaving Zhongli wanting for more, nails scratching down his skin as she let out a whine. Endearment poured out of his expression in waves as he pressed a kiss on her eyelid. “You’re troubled. How about you speak to me instead?”

Frustrated but knowing that the diplomat is right, she conceded, moving her body slightly away from where it’s pressed against his, want simmering down at the tenderness of Childe’s gesture. “I’ve missed you.”

The Imperial Palace in Yujing was a towering edifice meticulously crafted by the top Liyuen engineers and architects. The interior was as gorgeously appointed as the interior, dazzling in local gems like noctilucous jade and cor lapis twined with precious metals like gold, silver and bronze. At the heart of it was the throne room; built for receiving guests and discussing important policies like foreign alliances and war. Tonight, the council was locked in a heated discussion on the upcoming union between Lady Zhongli and Prince Ajax of Snezhnaya. War was brewing in the heart of Celestia. Uprisings and riots were erupting all across the continent, production of weapons increased and unrest was starting to trickle out and into the Seven Nations. The result was the increasing number of treasure hunters, Ruin hunters, and even Fatui activity. Liyue must decide its move in securing their position and protecting their people. And that means establishing ties with the nation with the most developed military and machinery- Snezhnaya.

“Your highness, Lady Guizhong,” the senior councilman gently started, “please do not be unreasonable. Lady Zhongli is of marriageable age.”

Guizhong gritted her teeth, fists clenching underneath the wide Cuihua table. Indignant and intent on keeping her youngest sister in Liyue. Zhongli loved Liyue with all her heart. Familiarized herself with the people and the landscape. Keeping the youngest in Liyue also meant their other siblings have the optimal position to defend her from unwanted courtiers who aim to exploit her. No one dared to touch their youngest without suffering the consequences of the Imperial children.

A gentle hand touched Guizhong’s knee and she looked up to see the warm eyes of their father- a visage of Imperial power wrapped around a core of a kind and gentle man. “I know you are fiercely protective of Zhongli, my dear. But you have to learn to let her go. This alliance is vital in the survival of our nation.”

The platinum haired princess buckled under those kind eyes and she averted her eyes in shame. She knew it was for the sake of Liyue. It would be inevitable for the marriage to push through as the unrest began spreading closer to their domain. But Guizhong would be damned if she didn’t make it hard.

“I trust we have settled on the agreement,” the senior councilman continued after clearing his throat. “The marriage will take place in a week’s time. During which their wedding ceremony would be held in Wangshu Inn. Another ceremony would be held the moment Lady Zhongli set foot in Snezhnayan soil-”

“If I may interject!” Guizhong voiced out, having pondered and accepted the situation. “The agreement is undeniably flawless and fair in line with The Great Rex Lapis’s contract, but there is one flaw.” She brought out her notebook and began to skim over it before she continued. Curiously, the Emperor leaned in to sneak a peek, only to be thwarted by her quick hands. She pretended not to see the indignant pout on his face. “Zhongli is greatly beloved by the people and there would be murmurings all across the empire once they found out their precious princess had been whisked off to another land so suddenly. Thus, I have a proposal.”

The councilman frowned, “And that is?”

“A festival!” The heir to the throne declared. “We will host a week-long festival in honor of the union of Princess Zhongli and Prince Ajax. This would allow the citizens of Liyue to get to know the man that will be Zhongli’s spouse- ensuring that he maintains a good reputation and standing amongst the people.”

She stood up from her seat and moved next to the emperor before continuing. “It will be a festival filled with games in which all citizens are encouraged to join in. My siblings and I have taken the liberty to arrange the tournament ourselves. Do take note that Prince Ajax is highly encouraged to participate for the sake of acquainting himself with the people.”

The emperor smirked as he laid back on his seat, face resting atop a knuckle as the other gripped the arm of his throne. He gave a nod for Guizhong to continue, eyes blazing with a mixture of pride and mirth.

“Four challenges. To win the heart of the people and most importantly, the princess,” Guizhong declared with confidence, buoyed by her father’s support.

~

“The next phase of our plan is set,” Guizhong announced as she slammed a piece of parchment in front of her siblings, the table wobbling slightly at the impact. “I have successfully convinced the council to hold a festival for the marriage. Now, we have to arrange the logistics of it.”

The four of them gathered round the table previously occupied by the council. Their faces were set, mouths a firm line as they enact the phase of their plan. They all know well that the arrangement has been set in stone but they are banking on the chance that Zhongli’s mysterious admirer ‘Childe’ shows himself to the fray. From what they have gathered from their youngest, he was a brash and confident man who never misses the chance to display his prowess in feats of arms. With careful planning, they hoped they could pitch him against the Prince. Should their plan succeed and the prince humiliates himself enough to rescind the marriage agreement. As for the other party, they get to meet him and from then on, they have plenty of time torture him.

“Put me in charge of all the logistics,” Havria stated defiantly, fire in her eyes as she, for the first time, used her authority as the eldest. “My challenge has been set. I will leave its execution to the three of you. Do what needs to be done.”

All three of them turned their heads, mouth slack at the authority and power in her voice. Azhdaha, who has been in the middle of disseminating the papers listing the things they have to procure, stopped. He stared at their eldest, then back at the paper, then snorted and chucked them back into his satchel. Osial and Guizhong grinned. “Look at you, a little kitty finally showing her fangs!”

“You have time to kid, then you have time to execute.” The eldest said, raven hair swinging behind her as she stood up, eyes bright as she addressed her younger siblings. “Settle your challenges and the logistics you need for them. Leave everything else to me.
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“No.”

Zhongli raised a brow, arms crossed across her chest as she faced her siblings who were busy walking to and fro their communal lounge. Papers and papers stacked high and low on surfaces as far as the eye could see. The four of them looked severely sleep-deprived, even Havria’s perpetual serenity and grace seemed to vanish amongst the mountain of papers. Internally, she pondered if they were making a miniature landscape of Liyue out of stacks of papers.

“You said everyone could join?” The youngest asked, unimpressed. “By that logic, I should be allowed to enter.”

“I thought you were busy moping?” Azhdaha muttered, the bags under his eyes near turning to a ghastly shade of blue. He stumbled and almost toppled over a paper formation she endearingly called Mt. Aocang. Huffing in annoyance, the brunet was forced to trudge more carefully as he neared Mt. Hulao.

Osial groaned as he felt his back creak as he tried to sit up from his spot on the floor. “The prize is a favor from you, dear sister. How do you suppose it could be done if you win the tournament?”

The youngest princess stood up properly from where she was leaning on a corner post. She dare not attempt to make her way towards the towering edifice of Guyun Stone Forest. Zhongli wagered she would be terribly berated if she so much as lifted a finger in an attempt to help. With Guizhong already a step away from outright growling at her, it was out of the question.

Truthfully, she wanted nothing more than to stop them from making these arrangements. It made her fear her inevitable fate. Makes it more obvious that sooner or later, she would have to part ways with Childe- the thought of which kindles a searing hot pain in her heart. She has been feeling it a lot more frequently as the marriage date beckons closer. Still, she was nothing if not stubborn, spending her days tucked away in outings with her dear diplomat. Nothing could stop her from meeting him; not even her siblings.

“Well, if you don’t want me helping, then I will take my leave,” Zhongli finally said, grabbing her hood from the clothes rack by the door and moving to step outside the cramped room.

Guizhong raised a brow, looking every bit as miserable as the others. She shook her head and refocused her efforts on whatever contraption she deemed fit the occasion. “Be a dear and inform Childe of the tournament? Wouldn’t want him to miss out on Liyue’s biggest event.”

The youngest stiffened before slamming the door behind her.

The three remaining siblings glared at the platinum haired princess, throwing their spare paper weights at her. “Ow! That hurts!”

A knock came at the door a few moments after their sister’s departure before opening, revealing the senior councilman, holding a letter. The elderly man bowed respectfully before straightening, “I have received the response from the Snezhnayan delegation,” he began, voice a little tense as he waited for permission to continue.

Guizhong rubbed her eyes, trying in vain to remove the itch brought about by insufficient sleep and stress. Her hair was pulled into a bun unsuited for her station, much less fit for public view. “Continue, my lord. We are listening.”

The councilman tried to enter the room with extreme difficulty but nevertheless made it to the nearest chair. “Pardon my disrespect, Lady Guizhong. My back has been killing me as of late,” he smiled as Havria went to assist him, deepening the smile lines on his face.

The heir to the throne waved her hand. “No need for apologies, you said you came to deliver news? What is our esteemed Snezhnayan delegates’ response to our proposal.”

“They took it in good stride, my lady. Prince Ajax would be happy to participate, but on one condition,” suddenly, the man looked very tired but fond. “He is joining incognito.”

“WHAT?!” All three of them shrieked, giving the old man quite the fright. It was a good thing that he was used to the Imperial children’s unique temperaments.

“How would that work?” Azhdaha asked, voice rising. “How are we even going to ensure his participation if that is the case? He could very well assign a proxy to join on his behalf and we would never know!”

“For Archons’ sake, we hardly know what he looks like? How are we to ensure his presence!” Osial said through gritted. He would have paced if not for the mountain of paperwork surrounding….the entire room.

“If it comforts you, my ladies and lords, Prince Ajax has written and signed this letter himself,” The old man said, handing the envelope to Havria, who gently broke open the Royal Insignia of the Fatui to read the contents of the letter.

The siblings were beginning to absolutely loathe the amount of paperwork surrounding them, the balance of which was reliant on their careful motions. Oh how badly they want to dash and grab hold of the letter themselves. Alas, if Osial dared move a knee, everything would fall apart. So they impatiently waited for Havria to finish reading instead.

The eldest princess sighed as she neatly folded the letter back to its envelope, blue eyes making contact with her three other siblings. “It’s true. Prince Ajax himself has signed it with what appears to be a drop of his blood.”

Guizhong remained silent for the majority of the event, finger pressed against her chin as she mulled over the situation. It certainly was not ideal but it was better than nothing. They could still enact their plan. “Then we will have to take his word,” she concludes bitterly.

“If you were given a chance to ask a favor from me,” Zhongli asked as she gently stirred the remains of her bamboo shoot stew. “What would it be?” The two of them were in a secluded restaurant tucked in a ledge amongst the steep hills of the area;run by a family of three that serve hearty meals for travelers.

Childe stopped stabbing his food in favor of gazing up at her stunning amber eyes, looking pensive as he detected a sliver of discomfort from his companion. “Hmm….that’s a hard question…” He straightened and crossed his arms over his chest, humming. “You know, I enjoyed the kiss before. Perhaps I could ask for a repeat of that?”

Zhongli felt herself flush from head to toe at the declaration, heart beating fast as she scrambled to drink water in an attempt to cool herself down. She could hear the diplomat laughing before leaning in and placing a chaste kiss on her cheek. “Of course, I could always just take it from you.”

“Wha-! This is harassment!” The princess squeaked as she covered her cheeks with her hands.

“Is that what bothers you, milady?” Childe asked, gentle as ever, running his thumbs over her knuckles. He lifted one to push a stray strand of hair away from her face, tucking it behind her ear.

“No,” Her elder sister’s voice came in to haunt her. Right, she has to inform Childe. “It’s…..

A tournament will be held in Liyue in a few days time,” Zhongli started, voice shaking and she averted her eyes. “Everyone is welcome to join and a favor from the princess Zhongli would be the reward for the victor, not to mention mora.”

Childe seemed to freeze at the statement, face suddenly turning tense before recomposing to a more neutral one. “Sounds nice. You know what, I think I’ll win it.”

Zhongli raised a brow. “Aren’t you too cocky? The tournament has yet to start and you feel assured of victory. I heard the Prince from Snezhnaya would be participating.”

The auburn-haired man shrugged, “I don’t care who’s there. I’m going to win it!”

It wasn’t wise to place too much hope on this declaration. They didn’t know the capabilities of Prince Ajax yet, but she knew Childe’s. And Childe was an amazing warrior used to thinking on his feet, creative and spontaneous, with a fiery spirit to match. In this, Zhongli could trust. For if he wins, she would wholeheartedly grant whatever favor he would desire.

“And what would you ask as a favor?” She asked instead, eyes shining with mirth.

“Your hand in marriage,” Childe responded seriously, eyes dead set on hers. Gone was his playful aura, replaced by a man hellbent on getting what he wants. “Surely, if it is by royal decree, you would never say no?” The last part was barely muttered out, his cheeks flushing.

How could anyone be this adorable? Zhongli has never loved anyone this much before.

Wait……..

Love…..

Love….

Zhongli is in love with Childe and it was the best feeling in the world. Buoyed by this realization, she said, “I think I will join too. When I win, I will ask the princess for your hand in marriage!”

“No you can’t!” The diplomat screeched, holding her face in his two hands. “I said it first! I definitely would win so you would have to marry me! Get a new idea!”

Happiness bubbled out of her in waves, throwing her head back and laughing merrily, eyes closed at the joy that filled her heart. “But I don’t have anything else! You’re the one I want the most!”

Childe once again froze, even his breathing seemed to stop for a moment. It’s as if he was in a daze, mouth opening and closing before his expression melted into unbridled affection. “Archons, you really are the best thing that’s ever been mine.”

Around them, the winds picked up, ruffling their hairs and blowing ginkgo leaves behind them. Wind chimes whistled their sweet melodies as birds chirped their song.

~

The beginning of the festival was a grand affair. Truly, Havria outdid herself. Liyue Harbor has always been bright and beautiful with the multitude of stores and stalls lighting up the streets but now, it was amplified tenfold. Lanterns of all shapes and sizes hung around every street and household. Candles were floated atop tranquil bodies of water- from Yujing Terrace to Chihu Rock. Colorful banners attached to each pole erected along the streets. At the Northeast part of the dock stood a huge rotating lantern that illuminated patterns of the landscapes of Liyue underneath a pavilion made of banners. At Yujing Terrace, two pavilions were erected. In the middle of one of them was a stone altar where Liyuens placed various gifts to celebrate the occasion- from portions of their harvest, incense, perfume, and prized boars. The city was positively buzzing with activity. In a few moments, the cannons announcing the beginning of the tournament would sound. Already, people have lined up and got themselves registered to participate.

Inside the palace, the Imperial Family was preparing. Gone were the marks of exhaustion in their faces under the masterful hands of the royal stylist. Their clothes were carefully made out of the finest materials and reflects their own status and unique personalities. Havria was wearing a baby blue hanfu with layers of sheer, shimmering fabrics that looked like the clear waters of Sal Terrae. A pearl white silk sash tied into a ribbon on her waist as a shawl to rest on the crook of her elbows. Osial wore his military uniform underneath a more sumptuous navy blue hanfu. His dark, gold-trimmed armor was polished to a shine, showcasing the famed protective dragon scales. Guizhong chose a metallic white gold hanfu woven with gold and silver thread, glaze lilies adorned the trims on her sleeves and skirt that reached until the middle of her calves. She wore silver high heels and a matching silver diadem atop her intricately-made platinum hair. Azhdaha opted for rich browns and golds for his hanfu, littered with dragon and mountain motifs woven with gold thread. His was the simplest of them all, but it retained its regal quality in the quality of the fabric and the masterful inlays of jewels and gold thread. As for the star of the celebration….

Zhongli looked like a goddess among men. Her hair was tied in an elegant updo, a singular exquisite cor lapis hairpin adorning it. Eyes smeared with rouge to highlight her amber eyes. A pair of matching cor lapis earrings that reached her shoulder adorned her ears. Instead of hanfu, she was wearing a white floor length qipao that ballooned from the waist down by layers upon layers of fabric. Her collar, long sleeves and skirt were trimmed with black and gold patterns. Running down her gown were a series of intricate gold knots.
Badges of honor adorn the right side of her chest- symbolic of her status as general.

The cannons fired and the drums roared their symphony as the Imperial family walked up the balcony of the palace to address the people. The sounds of people chattering died to a hush.

Guizhong stepped closer to the rails, eyes gazing at the gathered crowd right in front of her before bellowing:” Citizens of Liyue! Today is a very special day. Our dear princess Zhongli is to be wed soon, and we are here to celebrate this joyous event!”

Applause and cheers erupted in the crowd before once again hushing at the wave of the heir to the throne’s hand. “She has lived and thrived in the company of our people. Had led armies to its defense, and planted seeds for its harvest. And therefore it is only proper for her wedding festivities to be shared amongst you all!”

Osial stepped next to his sister, smiling as he addressed the crowd. “For the people of Liyue, we have prepared generous gifts and for the victor of the tournament, the grandest of prizes- a favor from our princess Zhongli along with two million mora!”

The drums played a fast song, accompanying the cheers from the people. The beat intensified as princess Zhongli was ushered up front to address the people.Two of her elder siblings stepped back as the people fixed their gaze on their ethereal princess. Amongst the crowd, a man wearing a sharp red mask and black trench coat sucked in a sharp breath.

“Citizens of Liyue,” Zhongli’s rich and sultry voice cut through the crowd like a hot knife through butter. “Thank you for your support all these years. There are no others in which I would dedicate myself to. Truly, I am grateful. Though I will depart from this nation, you will all continue to shine like gold in my memories.” Azhdaha stepped forward and offered his arm for his twin to hold. It was his turn to speak.

“This tournament has four challenges. Participants who fail will be eliminated until only one is left to become the victor,” Azhdaha’s amber eyes sparkled as he grinned. “Equip yourselves with creativity, knowledge, strength, and courage in order to triumph and win the grand prize!”

The crowd roared in approval, excitement and adrenaline filling the area as they all brace themselves for the first challenge. The four elder siblings looked at each other and nodded, disguising their apprehension about the incognito presence of Prince Ajax.

“The first challenge will test your creativity!” The youngest prince boomed, “You will be given three days to craft a tree made of stone and Liyue’s precious jewels. There are no limits when it comes to size or the variety so long as you are able to present your work here at 3 o’clock in the afternoon.” Azhdaha looked pleased with himself as Zhongli subtly raised a brow.

“Good luck, Liyuens! We will meet you here in three days time. Spend it wisely!” Zhongli cheered and the crowd began to disperse. One figure stayed behind, looking straight at the retreating princess’s back. A smile could be seen through the cracks in his mask.

“There’s no way I’m going to lose now.”

After the opening festivities, Zhongli wrote a quick message to Childe, hoping that he would forgive her for not being able to meet as she had promised. No matter how much she pleaded or sneaked, Guizhong would and had found her. For every attempt foiled, the brunette grew more frustrated that she was close to tears. She wanted to see him so bad. All this time, she was scanning the crowd for his face but she never found him. It would be a long time before they could meet again and she desperately clung onto his promise of victory.

The first challenge was tricky, no one would be foolish enough to build too big a tree for the difficulty of getting it up the stairs. Not too small for it to be diminutive. Building it on site would risk getting your materials or design stolen. She wondered what Childe would build.

Exhausted after the day’s activities, the brunette succumbed to sleep, still perched on the window- lulled by the memory of blue eyes and warm auburn hair.

In the silence of the night, she couldn’t see or feel the gentle touch against her face by a man wearing a blood red mask. “There you are, my sweet,” the man whispered reverently. “Worry not, we will meet again. Sweet dreams.”

Three days came by so fast and soon enough, Yujing Terrace was filled to the brim with an assortment of trees ranging from bonsai- like trees to a true to size Sandbearer-like trees but none of them beat the gigantic tree standing in the middle of the terrace. Compared to the others, the leaves were sparse but each were lovingly carved glass atop a monolithic trunk of jade and crystal ore. The creation so awed the audience that some participants forfeited in shame of their work.

“.....What audacious work,” Azhdaha said in awe, eyes bulging as he inspected it. “The technique could use some work and more refinement, but it is such an amazing feat in and of itself.”

Zhongli marveled at the work, feeling like she had seen it before- in one of her excursions with Childe towards Nantianmen. The jade is warm to the touch, rough edges a testament of the craftsman’s effort. “It is beautiful,” she couldn’t help but whisper. The man leaning beside the tree smiled behind his mask.

“Does this mean I pass?” The masked man asked, mirth seeping through his voice as Azhdaha finally approached him. The prince looked oddly miffed about the question.

“With flying colors,” Zhongli said instead, once Azhdaha had been silent too long for comfort. Her eyes twinkled in delight as she smiled. “Excellent job for the first challenge. We hope to see more from you. Congratulations.”

The man smiled before going down on one knee and kissing her hand softly. “Your highness, there is no greater honor than your pleasure.”

As Zhongli erupted into a full blush, Azhdaha fantasized of decapitating the man.

The sun was sitting low on the horizon when the Imperial twins finally finished screening off the ones that will be proceeding to the next round. More than half of the participants were already eliminated and Zhongli could feel the exhaustion seep into her bones. She was disappointed that she hadn’t seen Childe but then again, Azhdaha and herself split up in the middle of the screening to save more time so it’s possible that she missed him. What could he have made?

“Tired?” Her twin approached, holding out a steaming cup of tea. He sat next to her as the remaining participants celebrated their triumph. Families twirling and sharing triumphant looks. They were allowed some time to rest before the announcement of the second challenge. According to Azhdaha, it would be much more difficult than his and only a select number could pass.

“Yes,” Zhongli finally replied, gently blowing on her tea before taking a sip. “But it’s a good kind of tired, seeing the handiwork of the participants and the effort they made.”

Smiling, the brunet nodded his head in agreement at her statement. Havria appeared behind them, silent as a dancer. She placed gentle hands on the twins’ shoulders and squeezed. “Both of you did well,” she said in her soft voice. “It’s about time for the next challenge.”

The youngest princess stopped sipping her tea to quizzically look at their eldest. “Already? Aren’t we going to give them time to rest and gather their strength?”

Shaking her head, Havria’s eyes glinted dangerously as she responded, “The challenge wasn’t designed to be easy. The stakes are high, after all.” She turned her blue eyes to the elder twin. “Isn’t that right, Azhdaha?”

Azhdaha turned to Havria, who shook her head slightly to indicate that no, they hadn't made headway on Prince Ajax’s identity among the participants. “Correct. The next challenge is yours, milady. Please,” he prompted. “Whenever you’re ready.”

The raven haired princess looked incredibly satisfied before stepping into the center of the crowd, clearing her throat to capture their attention. The crowd hushed and everyone turned to look at the eldest princess- her long ebony hair swaying slightly in the wind. She didn’t have to raise her voice with the amount of the remaining participants so she kept a smooth and steady cadence. “I hope you have had your rest for the next challenge begins now.”

Eyes widened as once again murmurs began to erupt. Some still looked worse for wear, after what Zhongli guessed to be sleepless nights working on their masterpiece but that didn’t deter Havria who raised her palm delicately, effectively silencing the crowd. “In what once the most bounteous land in Liyue was a temple dedicated to the gentlest of the gods. In her remains rose tranquil waters preserved by the last vestiges of the god’s divinity," she explained, scanning the crowd for signs that they properly understood her statement.

"For your next challenge, I want you to retrieve any of the last vestiges of the god that kept the land as it were. There are fifty of them and only fifty of you would continue to the next round. Good night, everyone!”

The brunette’s eyes widened at the declaration. Havria just asked the participants to first, find the temple in Sal Terrae- the final stronghold of the god of salt, and second, retrieve the artifacts. A brutal race against time. People who have no prior knowledge of the god would be at a disadvantage. Thankfully, Zhongli remembered that she had mentioned it to Childe in one of their outings together. Praying that the diplomat was listening to one of her rambles, the youngest princess closed her eyes and dreamt of their reunion.

At the break of dawn came the first participant who was hauling in his arms twenty of the artifacts Havria had set aside for other competitors to find. It was the same man in the red mask and black hood, whose presence seemed to alarm the others who had chosen to take a rest before scouring for clues about Havria’s next challenge. The siblings were still frazzled by the early hours, having not expected the first until tomorrow.

Havria tied her robe tightly around her waist and threw over a coat to protect her from the biting early morning chill. Rubbing her eyes awake, she stared at the man who confidently brought more pieces than what she was expecting for one person to bring back. “You brought… twenty of those. As per my instruction, you need only find one.”

The man in the red mask shrugged, still carefully cradling the artifacts in his arms. “You didn’t say I can’t. Besides,” he looked over at Zhongli who looked disheveled and struggling to tie her robes around her; a silver ring peeking from her finger. “I wanted to get rid of as many competitors as I could. Fair for a competition, isn’t it?”

“Well, it wasn’t explicitly said you couldn’t do what you did,” Guizhong muttered, patting her elder sister’s shoulders that tensed at the situation. “I wouldn’t say it’s fair for the others, though.”

“Yeah, well, I made a promise,” Zhongli looked up, still looking a little tired, with the way she was scratching her eyes and ears in an attempt to keep herself from dozing off. The masked man powered on, voice steady. “And I intend to see it through.”

“Have you figured him out?” Guizhong frantically asked as she checked the profiles of each participant for the fiftieth time. “How could we not figure it out? There are only thirty competitors and yet we are no closer to finding Prince Ajax than that Childe meimei was rambling about!” She groaned as she slumped in her bed, placing her forearm over her eyes.

Head almost falling off, Havria nodded off before jerking up, eyes blinking open before once more beginning its descent to sleepland. “We have been at this for days. Perhaps we should just...wait it out,” the eldest princess suggested, crawling her way to the vacant bed next to Guizhong’s. “Osial’s trial is coming up next, We are going to have more time."

It took more than a week for other participants to complete the task, which would have taken longer had no one taken 19 more artifacts than he was supposed to. Nevertheless, thirty people remained to challenge the third: Osial’s.

Gathering round the remaining participants in front of him, Osial quickly scanned the crowd . Tonight, he opted to wear a more elegant silk hanfu instead of his preferred military regalia when he announced the challenge under Liyue’s full moon. The night air was crisp but not enough to be chilly and warrant another layer of clothing. “Good evening, ladies and gentlemen!” The eldest prince greeted with a wide grin. “First of all, I congratulate everyone of you who made it this far. The last trial was no easy feat but all of you must realize that this challenge is only a step away from the final one. No doubt fewer than half of you would make it past this so I pray of you, brace yourselves.”

An unsteady murmur blanketed the air as nervous participants tensed and shifted their weight from one foot to the other. Some scratched their head, furiously rubbing the exhaustion from their eyes. Zhongli couldn’t blame them. It was taxing to shift from one challenge to another, most specially when the stakes just kept on getting higher.

“This task is simple but tricky. In a week’s time, I ask all of you to craft a flame-dyed robe. To accomplish this, one must extract the dyes from pyro slimes and carefully weave it into the fabric. It is noteworthy to consider that only cloths made of lotus silk and glaze lilies are compatible with the pyro dyes. The more concentrated the dye, the brighter your robe will be,” Osial explained as he procured a sample of a flame-dyed robe, the quality of which is unparalleled-casting orange light and illuminating the area. Havria and Azhdaha had woven it together from slimes that littered the cave of Pyro Regisvine. The slimes’ proximity to the regisvine’s pure flames made the finest quality dyes. “I care not if you decide to simply dye a pre-made robe or if you would rather weave the dye into individual fibers and hand weaving it yourselves. Only the best made robes would be able to continue with the tournament.”

The blue haired prince gave the robe one final wave before handing it to Zhongli, who carefully admired its quality. Despite being made and illuminating like a pyro slime, the robe was comfortable and contained no residual heat whatsoever. It slightly baffled her that Osial would have this as his challenge, seeing as he preferred feats of arms or military drills than anything else. Then again, this is the same prince who secretly had the most flamboyant clothing of them all, even outclassing Havria.

At the corner of her eye, she spotted a figure waving at her before disappearing into the night. The light of the moon was too sparse to fully illuminate underneath the hood but she swore she saw the precious color of Childe’s hair peeking through. Zhongli stood up straight, jostling her eldest brother beside her. “Childe?” She whispered reverently. Beside her, Osial narrowed his eyes, cursing himself for not catching the figure his sister was calling out for.

“Childe is here,” Osial announced as he approached the meeting chamber where his other siblings, except for the youngest, had gathered. “In the third challenge. Zhongli-meimei saw him.”

The three Imperial siblings snapped their necks towards the eldest prince so fast he was concerned if any of them actually broke their neck. It was much too fast for it to be considered normal, so does the way the two ladies shrieked and bodily slammed him to the floor with a loud thump and a developing head injury. Osial was pretty sure he had two sisters present in the room but the head injury must have been setting in a lot earlier than he thought because he was seeing four and none of them look harmless. The eldest prince bet the one whose hand was around his neck was Guizhong’s, though. “SPEAK! HAVE YOU SEEN WHAT HE LOOKS LIKE? WHAT HE WAS WEARING? HIS HEIGHT? HIS APPROXIMATE BODY WEIGHT? HIS BUILD?”

The more questions the heir to the throne asked, the tighter the hold on his neck was. Yep, definitely Guizhong. Finally, Azhdaha came to view with an apologetic smile as he carried the wilder of the two princesses over his wide shoulder. “Azhdaha PUT ME DOWN RIGHT NOW. I AM NOT DONE TALKING TO OSIAL!”

“Guizhong-jiejie,” Azhdaha braced himself as her kick became more ferocious. “We can talk about this in a calm, non-lethal manner.”

It took ten minutes and one spiked drink for their tenacious platinum haired princess to calm down. Even then, her glares only lost a small portion of their ferocity. That was probably because she was tied to a chair. “Let me get this straight,” she said. “Childe was there and your incompetent ass failed to look at him.”

Nursing an ice pack against his head, Osial groaned in his seat before responding. “It was dark and he departed quickly. How could I have seen him?”

“It was just so dumb to announce a challenge at night when we are looking for a prince and a stalker,” Guizhong bit back, wriggling against her constraints. “You chose that stupid time because you thought it would make you look cool!”

“He departed quickly but not before making his presence known to Zhongli-meimei?” Havria asked as she nursed her cup of tea, looking much more serene than she had been a while ago. “Not to badmouth our sweet sister but she can be dumb as a rock. She wouldn’t notice anyone was flirting with her even if they were holding hands. The only conclusive theory is he deliberately sought her attention.”

“And she caught it before you did, so what does that say about your brain activity at the time?” Guizhong raised a delicate brow condescendingly at her elder brother.

“That’s it. You’re on, princess!” Osial threw his ice pack to the side before body slamming himself against the still bound heir to the throne.

Under the starry sky, Zhongli read and reread Childe’s letter, so full of affection and promise of their reunion. Pressing the scented correspondence to her chest, she smiled in relief: calm in the knowledge that he had indeed passed two of the challenges and was steadily making progress on the third.

Not even fate could part me from your sweet countenance. And under the stars I have pledged to you my victory and my heart.

‘Til we meet again.

In another part of Liyue, the auburn haired diplomat and prince of Snezhnaya grinned at the brilliant moon, on one hand a letter that had been sent to him days earlier. He read it not for information but for comfort, having long figured out the truth behind it. Childe, Ajax, the Fatui Prince of Snezhnaya will cross and move mountains to have in his arms the woman that was his whole heart.

The week passed by in a breeze. Today was the day when the participants would have to present their work on a long table prepared in the middle of Yujing terrace. Crowds have already gathered and the steady beat of the drums stuttered to a halt once the Imperial siblings appeared and sat on their designated seats next to the table, several baskets interspersed across the surface. The atmosphere was tense, with a sense of excitement simmering just beneath the surface as the tournament neared its close. Victory felt so close in the participants’ fingertips but they all knew not to be complacent just yet.

One by one, the participants placed their work on the table. From her seat, the brunette princess couldn’t help but gaze in awe at the works presented before her. Although not as masterfully done as Havria and Azhdaha’s work, the works conveyed the amount of effort that went into crafting it. Nevertheless, she could already tell which works will not make the cut. Zhongli politely smiled at each and everyone of the participants that placed their work near her seat. Liyue is home to a variety of people from all walks of life, including people from other nations like Monsdtadt, Sumeru, Fontaine, and Inzauma and the participants reflected this variety. What struck her wonder was the number of people who insisted on hiding their identity in masks- a fact that summons a bristle from her older siblings who have been eyeing them a little too closely for comfort.

“Thank you all for your hard work,” Osial said as everyone has settled and all works and participants are accounted for. “Please, give us a moment to deliberate on whose works would progress to the next round.” The five siblings stood up and began inspecting the works. Zhongli herself neatly placed the robes that were excellently done on a basket near her seat, waiting for the others to finish their own inspection. After a while, Guizhong approached her with a soft smile. “Quick to separate the ones you liked, meimei?”

The brunette smiled at her sister, laying a hand at her basket. “I have, indeed.”

“Sooooooo….have you seen Childe yet?” Golden eyes twinkling in curiosity, Guizhong asked. “He has entered the tournament, has he?”

Turning her body to fully face her elder sister, Zhongli nodded enthusiastically. Adorning her face was a gentle expression. Funny how a simple name could get her smiling. “Indeed he has. I have confirmed that he made it to this round but I haven’t made contact with him yet.”

“Does he know?” Guizhong inquired. “About...you?”

“Hard not to,” the youngest princess sighed. “I have been out and about ever since the beginning. Should things go well, I would speak to him and hopefully….continue as we were.”

The heir to the throne smiled placatingly, laying a hand on the younger’s shoulder comfortingly.

After careful deliberation, only ten competitors remain from the pool of thirty. Havria and Azhdaha went around to personally congratulate them on a job well done. The drums were once again thundering as celebration erupted around them. All in all, it was a festive ambiance befitting the occasion.

But the tournament was still on and it wouldn’t take long before the final challenge was announced. The fourth challenge was to be Guizhong’s and Zhongli has been feeling uneasy with the thought. Unlike their other siblings, The heir to throne was cunning and intelligent- qualities that earned her priority in the succession. Her cunning allowed her to navigate the complicated local and international politics with ease. There is no doubt that this will be the hardest challenge yet. With a wave of a hand, the crowned princess ascended the steps to address the gathered crowd. “Excellent work to all who have succeeded in the third challenge. Well done!”

The crowd cheered, competitors clapping each other in the back in a sign of camaraderie and shared experiences.

“But now, I will raise the bar even higher for the fourth challenge. Competitors, gather round!”

A posse of attendants began marching from the palace and into the square, placing various dated artifacts, and several bags on top of the same long table before disappearing from the crowd. Curious, people began inching closer to inspect the items. “Before you are ancient artifacts dating as far back as the Archon war. During that era of chaos, mora as we know it was nonexistent. Society bartered until a unified currency was developed. A currency accepted in the continent of ancient Teyvat- that which predates mora,” Guizhong said, voice a soothing but authoritative timbre. She opened one pouch and revealed a small cowrie shell.

Eyes widening, Zhongli almost stood up in alarm as she slowly realized the challenge that was about to come. Instead, she settled with gripping the arms of her chair. Of course, she knew that currency but the knowledge wasn’t available to everyone. The topic was barely discussed in textbooks, much less common knowledge.

“My challenge is simple for the ten remaining competitors. Each of you will receive your own bag of cowrie shells, which you will use to indicate the price of these valued artifacts during their time. The competitor who will give the correct amount for at least three of the five artifacts shall be declared the victor.”

The challenge was simple but absurd. Guizhong must have known what she was doing as she smiled, every bit the next Empress of Liyue. “Esteemed historians and economists will confirm the correct value of the artifacts, and thus, would be the ones to declare the victor. Now, grab a pouch and approach the table when you are ready!” An attendant extended their hand and assisted the princess down the steps and onto her chair.

“This is absurd!” Zhongli whispered, leaning her body to get closer to her elder sister. “Barely anyone knows anything about this system!”

“Sister, this wasn’t designed to be easy.” Guizhong rebutted, eyes staring at the gathered artifacts. “I hope your rambles have sunk in that Childe’s head. Otherwise, a foreign prince could seize victory.”

The brunette’s eyes widened, mouth opening and closing but no sound ever came out. Instead, she had to mutter out her question, “How do you know Prince Ajax hasn’t been eliminated yet?”

The heir to the throne trained her eyes to the Snezhnayan delegation that gathered at a corner near the palace. “The delegation is still here. Indicating that this prince has something going on for him, afterall.”

Nibbling on her nail, Zhongli could only sit and watch as one by one, the competitors moved to place their cowrie shells on the table. For every competitor that failed, the youngest princess’s anxiety rose. She knows she has discussed this topic with Childe but in no way has their discussion included specific items like these. The last letter he sent her seemed to pulse in her pocket as events unfolded. How badly she wanted to stand up and help him right now- it should be easier since only ten remain, but the weight of her own duty weighs her firmly in place.

When the historians and economists tensed when the last competitor finished placing their shells, Guizhong narrowed her brows before being beckoned towards the center. The figure was the same as the one who crafted the best tree during the first challenge, and the one who took 20 artifacts instead of just one. His red mask was telling enough. Slowly but surely, the Snezhnayan delegation stepped forward to join the masked competitor, finally confirming the identity of Prince Ajax- the man Zhongli was to marry, had won the fourth challenge. Zhongli went cold, her senses numbing as she struggled to keep her composure from breaking in public. Tears gathered in her eyes as one by one, they congratulated him.

Guizhong turned to give Zhongli a sympathetic look before turning away. It was her duty to announce the victor of the tournament. The Imperial siblings rose from their seats and followed the heir to the platform from which the announcement was to be made but before they could, Zhongli stepped forward, eyes locking with blue eyes behind the red mask. “Commendable effort. However, there is one final challenge.”

Unease swept the crowd but the youngest princess remained impervious, eyes blazing as she kept eye contact. No, she will not bend down and simply accept. Childe has promised her. And if he couldn’t do it, then Zhongli would have to keep her word and win it for the both of them. “Your highness, my lord Prince Ajax of Snezhnaya, the last challenge is mine, should you win, then you truly are the winner of this tournament.”

An uncannily familiar voice pierced through the mask, slightly muffled. “What are your terms?”

“I have heard of your fighting prowess,” Zhongli said steadily. “Therefore I challenge you to a duel. First to draw blood wins.”

The Imperial siblings stood stunned, save for the heir to the throne who grinned proudly before making a grand gesture of her hands. “Citizens of Liyue! The final challenge has been declared. Clear the square and when both parties are ready…”

Zhongli lifted her head high. “We shall begin.”

The center of Yujing Terrace was completely cleared in under an hour in preparation for the duel. People began whispering amongst themselves, disbelief in their tones as they realized the prince was among them all this time. Zhongli could feel the people’s budding affection towards this prince but she will not have it. She would win, for herself and for the man she loved. The youngest, the warrior princess of the Liyuen Empire will not easily bend down.

On opposite sides of the field stood the two royalties. Foregoing her ceremonial attire for her battle one, Zhongli opted for a simple white sleeveless hood with a pair of black pants, deciding to fight barefoot, so as not to ruin whatever shoe offered her. After all, she didn’t intend on holding back. Her favored weapon- Vortex Vanquisher was handed to her by an attendant and she gave it a few experimental twists as she rolled her shoulders.

Opposite her was Prince Ajax, who has yet to remove his red mask. Zhongli loathed his nonchalance; still wearing his red mask though he was wearing a different set of clothing. His black trench coat was replaced by a black military uniform with silver and onyx embellishments, his top shamelessly unbuttoned to show off his abs and the various scars that littered the area. In his hand was a double-edged electric purple polearm that was so expertly made that it resembled glass. The princess refused to think how familiar it looked, how that red scarf reminded her of her Childe.

At the first bang of the drum, the two of them walked closer to the center, back straight and serious.

At the second bang of the drum, they drew their weapons and moved.

Unsurprising to the brunette, the prince moved first, feet lightning-fast and graceful as he stabbed the polearm at the princess. Zhongli expertly parried before redirecting the force of it back, twirling her polearm free as moved to swipe at his feet. Prince Ajax expertly maneuvered himself out of the way, chuckling at her effort before he advanced again, momentarily disarming her but she recovered by catching her weapon with her feet and kicking it towards him.

Surprise and delight were painted all over his face at the sudden move, angling his head just in time to avoid the blade else it would have drawn blood. In exchange, he moved in faster- light as a dancer as he bombarded her with blow after blow. Masterfully alternating between one edge and the other, the force of which never wavered- powerful and accurate. However, Zhongli knew her endurance was unlike any other and her martial skills provided her means of deflecting each blow.

They continued this martial dance for minutes until their methodical but increasingly frantic pace brought them closer, weapons tightly locked. Countering Prince Ajax’s powerful blows were beginning to wear her down as sweat gathered around her forehead and dripped towards her lips. At that moment, she saw his eyes follow their path down her lips and she seized her chance, deftly unlocking their weapons and swiping the mask off his face.

The mask broke with a resounding crack and the prince was thrown back a few paces away from her but he didn’t stay down. He quickly got up to his feet and revealed….

A head of messy auburn hair, a valiant streak of blond, and deep blue eyes, and a grin so heart-achingly familiar.

The princess froze in her spot. “Childe…?” She breathed out, tears finally leaking down her eyes. “I thought-”

She wasn’t able to finish her sentence before he grabbed her waist and crashed their lips together, a moan slipping out at the intensity of their contact. Zhongli closed her eyes, running her fingers on his scalp as she wrapped an arm around his neck. Relief hit her body in waves and she found herself boneless in his hold, knees giving out but it’s alright. She knows Childe would never let her fall.

“Missed me?''He asked against her lips, breathing heavily as he struggled to catch his breath. She didn’t deign it with a response, instead, she smashed their lips together once more as they both fell on the ground, bodies pressed tight against one another. The moment would have lasted for much more until Guizhong barrelled in and hit Childe with a shovel, effectively rendering him unconscious.

"I KNOW YOU ARE THE PRINCE BUT YOU DON'T GET TO KISS BEFORE WEDDING NIGHT!" The heir to the throne screeched, almost hitting the prince again and again but was stopped by three of her siblings. Zhongli lay dazed, a blush still prominent from her face before erupting in laughter.

"Oh my archons, it's you all along!" Zhongli cried in relief, peppering Childe's knocked out face with small kisses, her heart full.

"Havria, Osial, Guizhong, Azhdaha, meet Childe, the man I love," Zhongli declared with the most vibrant and sweetest smile, carrying her unconscious husband-to-be in her arms. The four siblings immediately stopped moving, blinded by the sheer amount of affection pouring out of their youngest's expression. It was much too tender for the occasion. Their minds grounding to a halt before exploding at the thought of their attempted murder of the prince.

The crowd erupted in boisterous cheers and the drums began to play once more, accompanied by flutes and the emerging lights from the lanterns. In the ensuing chaos, the Snezhnayan delegation was dragged by the people into joining the impromptu dance in the middle of the square. Hawkers made their way and offered lively drinks and food to invigorate the people.

"I did say he was rich," Zhongli finally said after carefully doting on Childe. They were located in a special infirmary set up to accommodate an unconscious prince. After the initial confusion, the commotion settled and the festivities resumed well into the night.

"A lot of people are rich but you never told us he was a prince," Osial said with a pout. Azhdaha nodded in agreement.

Havria sat next to Zhongli and took the younger's hands in hers gingerly. "Did you know?"

"No," Zhongli said with a smile. "But I'm happy to get to love him outside of an alliance. Outside of duty." The Imperial siblings witnessed their youngest’s besotted face, adoration pouring out of her. “I don’t think I mind getting married to him, after all.”

“You don’t say,” Azhdaha snorted.

It was a clear, windy day when the pair got married on the balcony of Wangshu Inn. It seemed all of Liyue came to watch the ceremony, nearly overrunning the Inn from sheer numbers. Zhongli paid those trivial concerns no mind. Afterall, why should she? She was currently gazing into the eyes of her beloved prince and since a few moments ago, her husband. Her heart felt full as he finally lifted her crimson veil, his eyes moist with tears threatening to spill. She was sure she was not far behind.

“So, I get to have a kiss and your hand in marriage after all,” Childe- Ajax said breathily. “I say that was worth the hell I went through.”

Zhongli’s laugh came clear as day, head thrown back as her eyes closed, tears of happiness slipping down her cheeks. “And the best part is,” she wrapped her arms round his neck. When she opened her eyes, it was twinkling in mirth. “You don’t have to steal them. As your wife, I would be terribly offended if you don’t kiss me often.”

The auburn haired prince hummed, licking his lips as he wrapped his hands around her dainty waist, pulling her body closer to his. His red suit fits him so well and with his hair done, he looked every bit like a prince charming in fairy tales. “We can’t have that,” then he pressed his lips against hers finally, savoring their first ever kiss as man and wife, without the fear of a shovel hitting his head. “Archons, have I told you how much I love you?”

Breaking the kiss, the princess giggled in the prince’s arms, her flush making her look even more radiant under the warm Liyuen sun. “No,” she replied with a smile. “Say it.”

“I love you.”

“Say it again.”

“I love you.”

“Again.”

“I love you.”

Zhongli beamed, feeling as if finally the world has been set into its proper place, filling the holes she never felt until the fear of separating from the love of her life manifested. She laughed heartily before slotting her lips against Childe’s once more, moaning softly. He pulled away with a grin, eyes crescent like a Cheshire cat. “Wow, if that could make you moan like that, I have a lot of surprises for you.”

A finger lovingly caressed his lips. Face touched so reverently by a small hand as Childe felt nails lightly scratching from his scalp all the way down to his nape. A delighted smile erupted from the princess as she witnessed the shiver that ran down his spine, her lids fluttering seductively. “Save the pillow talk for the marriage bed, dear husband.”

“Yes please, because WE CAN HEAR YOU!” The couple turned to witness two princes restraining one feral looking princess threateningly waving a shovel.