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Chapter Text

After the events in Liyue which led to releasing the Osial and obtaining the Gnosis of Rex Lapis, Childe and his dear harbinger colleague La Signora boarded the boat right to Snezhnaya to reach Zapolyarny Palace as soon as possible. It took them a few days in separate boats to eventually arrive in Her Majesty’s throne room, facing the Cryo Archon herself. 

Sitting on a large seat made by crystal clear ice creating razor sharp spikes right behind the Tsaritsa. Her shoulders were covered by heavy fur hiding the delicate white skin of her decent figure. At first glance, she appeared like a young girl, not like an Archon. But Childe knew that behind her huge steel blue eyes was raw power, able to tear down the whole world. 

The temperature dropped. 

Chill managed to send shivers across his back even though he was tucked in a large coat and warm fur. He felt his toes get numb from the cold. Childe’s cheeks slowly turned to the red as well as his lips became uncomfortably dry. 

Glancing to his right, Signora seemed completely fine although her figure was hidden under thick layers of definitely much warmer dress and coat, covering her from the top to the bottom. Still, she was holding her signature resting bitch face. She walked beside him, not paying attention to the youngest harbinger. Instead The Sixth was looking upon their sacred Archon. 

“Your Majesty,” bowed La Signora with her voice sounding somewhat respectful, “We’ve brought you a Gnosis as you requested.”

The Archon just tilted her head. 

Childe followed Signora’s example, bowing with head down, keeping his mouth shut. He was able to catch sight of Tsaritsa’s white hair and blue robe when she repositioned her legs to a more comfortable position. 

“Rise, my children,” said Her Majesty with a soft voice, “And show me, what have you brought.” 

With no hesitation, Signora handed the Gnosis she was hiding in her pocket to the Tsaritsa who simply smiled. 

“Good, you did good, Sixth,” praised his senior, their Archon. No words for him. He was just standing next to Signora, looking neutral. He knew his role in this scheme was… Complicated and although he felt betrayed, something was telling him, Tsaritsa was planning much bigger things. 

Dismissing La Signora, Childe stayed in the presence of the Cryo Archon, who turned her attention to his direction as soon as his senior’s footsteps grew silent. He became slightly nervous. Sure, he was alone with Tsaritsa many times but this time he felt different. It had to do something with his stay in Liyue and maybe about certain matters regarding his Foul Legacy. 

He was a bit sore from the transformation but nothing that won’t get better in a few weeks. Childe was used to feeling this strange pain, used to shift into a much stronger form of himself. But even through this, his body ached and his sleep was filled with dreads hunting him since he fell into the Abyss and crawled back covered in blood and slaughter. 

“Tartaglia. Little Tartaglia. My Eleventh. It’s been a long time since we spoke,” said Tsaritsa with her gaze locked right on him. 

“Yes, Your Majesty. Indeed, we haven’t spoken in whole eternity,” bowed his head Childe with due respect. 

Tsaritsa just smiled at him. 

“I missed you, young one. We all missed you.”

“I missed Snezhnaya, too. Your Majesty.”

“Enough of this small talk. Tell me, Tartaglia, how was your stay in Liyue? I want to hear everything,” urged the Tsaritsa playfully. 

Childe wasn’t sure if she was serious but he, indeed, told Her Majesty about everything he discovered during his stay in Liyue. He mostly talked about the battle in the Golden House and about the Traveler who managed to defeat him in combat. 

Tsaritsa seemed interested in his tale and frequently asked many additional questions about further details. He was pleased by her curiosity. Getting more comfortable in her presence, Childe became once more his bubbly self, smiling and laughing at Tsaritsa’s commentary. 

Kindness was peeking through the mask of Archon and true warrior desiring world domination. She loved her subjects, especially those like Childe who submitted himself to her ultimate goal, sacrificing everything just for her dream of a better future. 

It seemed like eternity. His chit chat was neverending with Childe sharing everything he deemed worthy for his Archon to know about. Although he still felt the weird sensation creeping up his spine. Something was very wrong. Maybe it was just the sheer cold, biting his sensitive skin and making him tremble a bit. 

His suspicion slowly increased when a silent figure approached them. Tall, clothed in harbinger attire made his way across the throne room. His blue hair and beak like mask convinced Childe in his true identity. 

Second of the Harbingers. Il Dottore. Code name the Doctor. 

Chills traveled through his body once more. He never grew to like Dottore. Honestly, he was a little bit afraid of him as he was afraid of the other doctors he encountered. They always made him feel uneasy and anxious with their medicine and strange tools. His experience in Abyss was terrifying enough, albeit he overcame it. The doctors? They were impossible to not fear. 

“Your Majesty,” sighed Dottore with his head nodding gently. 

“Il Dottore, I’m glad you came,” Tsaritsa turned her head, greeting the Second with a cold gaze. 

Childe was confused. Why was Dottore here? Was he part of his next mission? Was it a coincidence? He couldn’t tell, but he still greeted his senior with due respect. As always, Dottore paid him mere attention. Oh, how he hated this man whose ego was higher than the highest peak of the Great Mountains. 

“Since we are all here,” started Tsaritsa in her speech, “we can resolve the matter of future missions.” 

“Il Dottore, as we talked previously, you will be stationed in Sumeru. You have my approval in the matter of your project involving Electro Gnosis, albeit I suggest, you turn your attention to the second project. At least before we obtain the Gnosis.” 

“Indeed, my Archon,” paused Dottore, “Have you already told the Eleventh?” 

“Tell what?” blurted Childe with eyes filled with questions. 

“Oh, I suppose it’s not my right to tell you,” smiled Dottore, turning his hidden face in Tsaritsa’s way. 

The Archon rose from her seat. 

“Tartaglia,” she began, “I understand this may be a bit forward from me, but I insist on it. I decided you will help Dottore with his new experiment.” 

His heart skipped a beat. 

“Well, I assume I don’t have much choice. I do as you ask, Your Majesty,” cringed Childe nervously with his eyes locked on Dottore whose lips curled in a cunning smile. 

“Such a good boy,” praised Tsaritsa, slightly touching Childe’s cheek, making shivers run down his spine. A thin crust of sparkling ice covered his face. Her blessing soaking into his skin. 

He smiled. Letting himself close his eyes and savor this sacred moment, Childe didn’t see Dottore’s sleek hand reaching for a syringe filled with strange purple liquid. As he was opening his eyes, the needle sunk into his neck. Sharp pain made him gasp for air. Glancing at Dottore, Childe growled, launching at his throat. 

Summoning his hydro blades ready to slice up Dottore, he felt ice making its way through his body, freezing the weapons in his hands. The daggers shattered into small crystals, falling down to his knees. Nevermind, he could still use the Delusion. 

But before he could summon the electro power, he was slapped with the back of Dottore’s hand. It burned. Leather glove was cold, leaving a red mark after the harrash impact. The slap didn’t do much damage, only confused Childe for long enough, so the contents of the syringe could fully spread. 

His head spun. Taking an unsure step, calling for hydro powers once more, Childe collapsed. He was still conscious, albeit his body felt limp. Laying like a rag doll, unable to move, his eyes glanced at Dottore and Tsaritsa, who simply frowned, returning back to her throne.

Chapter Text

Childe didn’t lose his consciousness even after several minutes, when Dottore pulled him up and tossed his limp body over his larger shoulder like a sack of potatoes. His muscles felt too soft - like a jello - unable to tighten or even move. It seems, he was only allowed to breathe and slowly blink. He already tried to speak or make any other sound different from silent whimper, just to meet with the conclusion he wasn’t in control of his vocal chords. 

Closing eyes for a while to recoil from cruel reality, Childe calmed himself. The serum wouldn’t last forever. As soon as he gains control once more, he will make his move, running as far as he can from Dottore and this place. 

He felt betrayed by Tsaritsa. She lured him back from Liyue, took him away from Zhongli, who disappointed Childe with his behavior, but who was still his dear friend and… Maybe something more. Although he wasn’t sure about his feelings, he still missed Zhongli and Liyue somehow. It felt strange to be longing for foregin place as such but the country was simply his second home to Snezhnaya and Morespok. 

Thinking about home… He was planning to visit his siblings and parents in a small fishing village, north from here. With the many gifts he purchased for them, he should come at least for a day. The kids surely missed him as he missed them, albeit he wasn’t looking forward to seeing his parents. Mom would be happy to know, he was okay but his dad… 

Sigh. 

He hated Childe’s role as Harbinger. Of course, his salary was welcomed, sure, but the dangerous stunts he performed and the rumors other villagers shared about the youngest harbinger… It did not help with their reputation. Childe tried to hide the dirty job he had to do, he tried to be the mighty hero who slayed many monsters and helped their Archon, but still he was seen as a monster who crawled from Abyss. 

Soft chuckle brought him back to reality. 

“Don’t worry, Tartaglia. You’ll soon feel much better,” mumbled Dottore who smiled under his beak-like mask.

Childe opened his eyes to meet with a metal door, closing behind them as they approached Dottore’s lab. The sharp smell of chemicals bit his nose and made him fully present once more. Trying to struggle - move his fingers at least - Childe eventually gave up, when Dottore laid him on a leather bed and strapped him down with thick binds. 

“Ahhh finally, you are in my care, dear Tartaglia. I hope you are comfortable,” cheer the Doctor after he removed his heavy coat and placed it onto a cloak hook. Walking towards his working area which was full of various containers and tools, Dottore kept talking about how he was longing to have Childe here, in his den. 

The young harbinger wasn’t really listening, rather examining the place to find something useful for his escape. His eyes searched the large room, traveling across every piece of furniture and strange looking constructions which were probably part of Dottore’s experiments. His attention was caught by a huge translucent box. 

It was standing on its own in a group of horrifying tools which made Childe gulp heavily. The box looked like a cage for something really big. He wondered for what or who it was invented. Maybe for some kind of monster? Or a failed experiment? 

“Now, now. It’s time to have some fun, shall we?” 

Childe turned his gaze upon Dottore who was now towering over him. He noticed another syringe in his hand which slowly approached him. Skipping several heartbeats, the tip finally met with Childe’s skin, releasing its contents to the boy's bloodstream. Burning sensation spread across his body, making him sweat and silently whimper in discomfort. 

“I always wanted to see your Foul Legacy, Tartaglia. It’s a shame I have to force you. Such selfishness from you, I’m truly disappointed,” mumbled Dottore with lips curved into a cruel smile. 

The burning was just a beginning, he could tell by the hotness claiming his senses, making Childe feverish. Glaring at Dottore, who just simply observed him from his current place, Childe felt something stirred inside him. 

Familiar power tainted by pure Abyssal energy was awaking. He didn’t want to. Not so soon after his fight with Travel. His body still hasn’t recovered from the duel and from the use of Foul Legacy. Childe still felt the exhaustion rolling over him, making his usual abilities much weaker. 

He could use a proper rest which was what he was planning after the confrontation with Tsaritsa. He wanted to take a week or two off his duties. Time to spend with his family, resting and thinking about what he left in Liyue. 

“Don’t fight it, Tartaglia. You are making it worse for yourself,” Dottore informed. 

With a burst of pain in his chest, the transformation finally emerged. Covering his body now infused with electro and hydro by a dark armor, Foul Legacy transformed him into semi-abyssal creature which grew significantly in size. 

His world was spinning even though he closed his only eye sitting in the center of his mask-covered face. The table under him crushed and leather belts snapped, unable to contain such a large creature. 

Laying on his back, unable to move since the serum in his body still hasn't worn off, he opened his eye, meeting Dottore’s blank expression. 

“You are a unique specimen, indeed,” praised the Doctor, who was now examining his new form. 

Childe wasn’t sure for how long his transformation would last since he was still weakened by the fight. His body already felt sore, ready to return in its original form. Staying in his Foul Legacy for too long was dangerous not just for his health, but also for his mind. The whispering of Abyss, the voices of people he never knew but was still able to hear, was making Childe lose the sense of space and time. It was easy to confuse himself when his memories and thoughts were in a hazy fog. Sometimes he almost forgot who he was and who his family and friends were… 

“We need to draw some blood, run a few tests…” that was Dottore thinking aloud, moving around Childe. 

The small needle which was suddenly brought to Childe’s huge arm, seemed ridiculous. He doubted it would be able to pierce his hardened skin and he was right. Dottore cannot use this small tool to get through his armor. So, he changed his approach. 

Using a surgical blade, Dottore stabbed Childe with its sharp tip, making him finally bleed the purple substance which was pooling around his arm. Dottore quickly scooped the liquid into one of the vials. He could just imagine his red eyes flickering with excitement as he held the container in front of his blank mask. 

“Magnificent,” sighed the Second, still sounding as cold as his steel tools. 

Childe moaned, the pain inside him was rising. He felt like his body was being torn apart piece by piece. Shivering spread further from his chest to fully consume him and his hazy mind filled with white fog. He needed to turn back to himself before the damage was irreversible. 

“Dottore…” Childe managed to whimper with a soft voice tainted by abyssal power.

“Dottore, please,” he coughed. 

“What is it?” snapped the Doctor, who was now annoyed by his pleading. 

“I need to detransform. You must help me. If I stay like this for too long…” Childe was trying with all of his strength to speak. His worlds were slurring together a bit but still he managed to say what he needed. 

“Oh? Is that so?” chuckled Dottore with a cunning smile. Leaning in Childe’s full vision, he continued: “What will happen, if you stay like this for too long, Tartaglia? Tell me. Im curious.”

He needed to gather some more strength before he spoke again: “I… I will lose myself. I won’t be able to turn back. Not without risking death.”

Dottore was silent for a while. 

“Well, I don’t see this as a problem, dear Tartaglia.” 

His heart, if he had one in this form, stopped. 

“What do you mean?” 

“I mean, why should I be concerned about this matter? It’s a mere… lost.”

Childe didn’t know what to do or what to say. He was doomed. He needed to gain back the ability to move and run as far as he could before turning back, seeking shelter till his body recovered enough to run again. 

Focusing his remaining power into his limp muscles, he managed to move with his fingers. Good, the serum was slowly wearing off. Maybe it was the Foul Legacy what helped with the poison in his bloodstream to fade. 

If he managed to hit Dottore with anything he could grab, maybe he would gain an opportunity to escape. Noone would stay in his way - not with this form, when he was towering over everyone. And everyone with enough sanity would get off his way. 

Taking his time, he observed Dottore working, collecting more samples, scratching something into his leather notebook. Childe’s ability to control his body slowly returned, leaving him with soreness and strange tingling. 

Waiting for the right timing, when Dottore turned around to gather something from his work desk, Childe emerged from the ground. Swiftly summoning his polearm, he swung it, aiming for Dottores' back. But before he could land a strike, something wrapped around his middle section and pulled. 

He was then dragged backwards, falling to his butt and sliding. When he looked down, he saw metal rope which was cutting into the black armor. He tried to roll onto the side, to stop the unwanted movement, but he was still dragged like a kid. Struggling to break free with anything he had in his disposal, he was then brought into that glass container he saw before. 

The pulling stopped as soon as the see-through cage was locked. He tried to jump back onto his legs. The rope let him go and disappeared somewhere into the floor, but when he slammed his shoulder against the glass to break it, he was met with electro zapping him enough to knock an ordinary person out. 

Taking a few steps back, he looked around his cage. 

“Tsaritsa will never forget you, if you won't let me transform back!” yelled Childe angrily. 

He tried. He was trying all the time to switch back from this state into his original body, albeit it didn’t work. He could not get rid of this state. Something was blocking it and he knew it was Dottore’s doing since he made him transform in the first place. 

“Come on, Ajax, you really think Her Majesty cares for you? For Ajax ? For your weak human body, which can she replace with anyone?” laughed Dottore, who was now in front of the cage, lurking around like a predator toying with his prey.

“What do you mean?” whispered Childe - Ajax - silently. 

He wasn’t sure if he understood Dottore correctly, although he felt the strange knot in his chest. He was bluffing, right? Tsaritsa would never agree to such a thing. She would have never let Dottore play with him like this…

“Her Majesty wants a warrior. Strong one. Unbeatable one. Ajax is just a mortal. Regular soldier, and she has many of them, but Tartaglia is an Abyssal creature. The true champion she seeks.”

“You are lying,” hissed Childe. 

“No, I’m not.” 

And with these words, sudden movement of ground catched Childe unprepared. He lost his footings, making a few steps back almost falling to the floor. Before he could recover from the surprise, pink mist filled the cage. Shimmering gas was slowly making its way through his lungs into his system. 

At first, it felt like a strong perfume with no other effects. But as he was about to laugh at Dottore lame attempt at whatever he was planning, his vision suddenly darkened, making him fall completely unconscious in a few seconds.

Chapter Text

The events of the next few days were hazy in Childe’s mind. He remembered losing and gaining consciousness several times before finally waking up fully, aware of his surroundings. 

Still held in the glass cage, they moved him somewhere else - he didn’t recognize the dark room, albeit he had the feeling, he was still in Zapolyany Palace. It was probably the cold, biting into his skin hidden underneath the heavy armor. 

Childe’s body ached, although it wasn’t in a physical way rather something connected to his own being. Feeling numb like he wasn’t part of his vessel - like he was just a stranger locked into this foregin creature. He wanted to escape, to finally succumb to the coldness which should have already taken him years ago when he fell into the Abyss. 

Once again he heard the voices. 

They whispered to him about the almost forgotten horrors he once survived. The bloodshed. The desperation. Spark in his eyes fading. Skirk . 

Three months. He spent three months dwelling in the Abyss, fighting his way out alongside his master who taught him how to survive. At the beginning he was afraid. He cried, whimpering in discomfort when monsters lurked around him, biting into his soft body. Eventually, Childe pushed them away. 

Wielding the small sword, he fought everything that came his way. Spilling purple blood, tasting his own at the back of mouth, feeling adrenaline rushing through his young body, Childe learned how to use Foul Legacy. 

Skirk told him about the impact of Abyss. Showed him the power of this rotten place which was now part of him. He was stained. Warning little Ajax about the risks which Foul Legacy brought with every transformation, Skirk helped the young boy back to his home even if she disliked the idea of returning to his family. 

“From now on, you are the part of Abyss,” she said with coldness so much similar to death grip which was now brushing against Childe’s consciousness, “You must keep this a secret. Use this power only in a matter of danger. Because every time you put your body through the transformation, you eventually lose a part of your mind as well as you are risking spending too much of your life force. Do you understand?”

I do.  

He really did. 

In total, he used his Foal Legacy only twice - once with his fight at Golden House with the Traveler and the second time was a long before he was a Harbinger. It was during his late mission. He was accompanying Lord Pulcinella as his subordinate. Back then, Childe was barely an adult, albeit he was highest ranking under Pulcinella command since he was able to outperform skilled soldiers. 

Serving as mere agent protecting the Fifth on his way to Fontaine, Childe actually saved the man’s life by breaking the promise he gave Skirk about keeping the Foul Legacy his secret. The attackers surprised them at night when their group was resting near a roaring bonfire. Thanks to Childe’s quick reaction, Lord Pulcinella was spared. That didn’t apply for other subordinates who were slaughtered by a group of assassins. 

Childe was able to stop the attack, using his Foul Legacy to kill all the enemies and to get them into safety seeking shelter in a nearby village. Lord Harbinger was surprised by Childe’s actions and by his skills. He promised him to keep his secret for himself and to help him rise above his current rank. 

The second promise was fulfilled. The first one? He was probably the one who broke the fact straight to the Tsaritsa and Dottore. He cursed Pulcinella. He will have his revenge. After he escapes this ridiculous cage and Dottore’s grasp. 

The betrayal still hurt. Tsaritsa decided to use him. To bury him just to receive a weapon capable of destroying anything and anyone she desired. He will make her regret this choice. Tsaritsa, Zhongli - actually Morax - probably even Pulcinella… All of them betrayed him. Made him just a pawn in their stupid game. 

He would be gladly a pawn. He would gladly accept his fate but his honor was screaming at him. He could be whatever they need him to be, but if they were at least honest and let him think everything through before submerging into this madness.

A voice brought him back to reality. 

“Finally conscious, aren’t we?” 

Dottore hit the light switch, making the once dark room filled with the cold glow of luminescent stones gathered from the Chasm. Childe had to close his one eye before adjusting to the brightness. 

“You grew quiet, Tartaglia. Are you finally giving up?” 

His nagging was making Childe furious. Dottore was lucky, the glass cage was preventing him from leaping for the Doctor's throat and squeezing it tight in his grip. Oh, how he longed for murder. He could easily imagine ripping the man apart, spilling blood and drawing sweet screams of pain from him. 

“What do you want from me? If you came here to piss me off…”

Dottore cut him off: “I came to check on your progress. How do you feel? Tell me.”

“Fuck off,” snarled Childe, not moving a inch. He probably wasn’t able to move at all, thanks to the pain paralyzing him in one place. Dottore must have grown aware of that, judging the way he was glaring at Childe’s position. 

“Seems like you are not broken yet. In that case, we need to arrange some special measures. ”

And with that Dottore simply opened his cage without any hesitation. He was standing right in front of Childe, summoning his own weapon in a form of diamond like orb hovering in his gloved hand. The orb itself was a delusion granted by Tsarista herself. He didn’t possess the power of Vision since it was never granted to him, but he was still able to manipulate elemental power with his creations. 

Childe stirred. Every inch of his body ached, although this probably was his only chance to actually escape and make some progress. Standing seemed impossible with the world spinning and his throat burning with nausea. He needed to ground himself, to regain full control of his body which still seemed distant. 

Imagining his limbs slowly awaking from tips reaching his torso and then his lungs filling with air as he breathed, Childe was suddenly back into his physical self, feeling everything and finally moving. 

He managed to stand up and tower over Dottore, who was now smiling under his mask. Launching forward, Dottore summoned the rain of ice shards, which were able to pierce through the skin and maybe even the armor Childe wore. 

Because of that, the ginger-haired creature called upon the power of electro, shattering the falling ice into mere snow. It was a basic attack, but his headache got worse as well as the pain seasoned by raw emotions. 

He didn’t remember…

Ajax. He was Ajax and he had brother Anthon, sister Tonia and precious Teucer. He was Harbinger…

They betrayed him. Dottore and Tsaritsa… Zhongli. 

You are part of the Abyss. A monster. A burden. 

The voices… They called him. They wanted him to get back and…

Pain sparkled into his chest. His heart or whatever organ he had instead now, dropped to his pants when his legs gave up and when his whole being spasmed with familiar pain. The Foul Legacy was falling apart. He was turning back to normal, albeit he won’t survive the transformation. 

He was shattering. 

Cramps took over him. Leaving him helplessly lying on the floor, gazing upon Dottore who dismissed his weapon and who was now kneeling next to him, cautiously observing the process. He seemed calm, although Childe was dying and his Archon won’t get the soldier she desired. 

Shrinking to his original size, he closed his eye and wished for the pain to finally cease. His body cannot take anymore. He should have passed out already or died. Why he was still spasming, screaming with pain and praying to that damned Archon? What was wrong with him? 

“Interesting. I should record the results. It seems like the subject was able to hold its abyssal form only as long as it wasn’t using any excessive power granted from the Delusion or its Vision.“

The words blurred.  Childe was able to understand most of the Dottore’s speech, although his brain refused to work with the information. Laying on his back, heavily breathing he felt like the world might shatter any moment. What was even reality? Was he alive? He was. He felt the pain in his chest and in the bones… in every part of his being. Then why does everything seem so unreal? 

„Can you hear me, boy? Tartaglia? Childe? Ajax?“  

Dottore was touching his bare arm with gloved hand but Childe didn’t react. He just stared and stared. Slowly piecing himself together, sorting his memories, remembering how to speak and where he actually was, Childe turned his gaze upon the Doctor. 

„I’m… going…to…kill…you,“ he breathed out with remaining energy. 

„The subject still remembers. Let’s continue with the experiment.“

And with those words, Dottore pulled out another dose of the purple liquid. Before Childe could say or do anything, the syringe was already in him releasing the poison into his system. 

When the pain came, he screamed his lungs out.

Chapter Text

In the next few days, Childe was again and again put through his transformation. He actually lost the count of how many times he turned back to his human form, just to be forced back into the Foul Legacy. Slowly he was losing his mind as his brain became sluggish, barely able to form thoughts which would make sense. 

Drowning in the sea of madness, he was desperately trying to pull himself above the water which was filling his lungs. But Childe was still falling down, being carried by the current and sinking deeper in deeper in the endless darkness. 

Even the pain ceased. Everything was silent, his body floating in the water lifelessly. He felt the abyssal energy wrapping around his limbs, stretching them to an uncomfortable position. Should he mind? He probably should fight back, but the urge died right after it came. 

Meanwhile in the real world, Childe’s body was being prepared for its first mission. Dottore secured his newest invention over Childe’s pearl-like eye. The “mask” covered the old one underneath, providing Dottore the ability to control the unconscious body. The thin layer of glass like substation was mixed with pieces of the strange liquid they found in the Chasm. 

Based on his research, the dark purple slime was able to possess the mind of its host. Using its essence in order to make the special tool, now attached to Childe, should provide him with the ability to use the endless abyssal power the hydro-user was gifted with. 

Blue light sliding across Dottore’s face made his facial features deeper. There was no need to wear his beak mask, hiding his scarred face from others to see. Crimson eyes focused on the shallowly breathing creature, still laying on its back motionlessly. His brows knitted together as he rose from his crouching position. 

It should be done. 

Reaching for the remote in his left pocket, Dottore used the second hand to slide his mask back on. He cannot risk Childe will eventually wake up and see his true face. He wasn’t ashamed of the scars and burn marks he was bearing. It was quite the opposite to him, actually. Having them served as a proof of his achievements and the dedication to science with a deep passion for brutality running in his blood. 

They called him insane. Creating segments of himself in his different age was something most of his colleagues won’t understand rather consider perverse and ill. But for him, this was the greatest success. 

Fidgeting with the remote in his hand, he snapped out of his thoughts once again focusing on the body laying in front of him. Twisting his lips in disgust, he simply pushed one of the buttons, sending a wave of electro straight to Childe. 

Creature’s eye flashed open with a sound of feral growl. 

“Do you remember who you are?” Dottore said with a raspy voice, eyes glued to his creation. 

It seemed the creature was confused. Scanning its surroundings, slowly taking in all the details, it focused back to its master. 

“I’m Her Majesty's weapon.” His voice was raw from the screaming, tined with abyss and unspecified darkness which was crawling around the room. 

“Yes. You are Tartaglia , and you belong to Tsaritsa.” 

Tartaglia nodded. His huge body rose to a standing position putting Dottore into the shade with its significant height. He didn’t appear to remember anything from his past, which meant Dottore could simply use this to his advantage. He kept asking Tartaglia several questions to prove his hypothesis.

And he was again right. Tartaglia was blank as a sheet of paper, having in mind only memories to Tsaritsa of his duty as her soldier whose job was to help Her Majesty to conquer the world of Teyvat. 

“I have a task for you, Tartaglia.”

“Yes, Lord Harbinger.”

Dottore smiled: “I have to observe your healing process, so I need you to accompany me to the arena and fight a few monsters. After that you will be able to continue in your mission.”

“Of course, my Lord.” 

Following Dottore, Tartaglia marched like a soldier straight to the underground arena which the Doctor used for his experiments and for entertainment - as it was quite profitable to bet on the best fighters and collect some funds from subordinates who spent their money on fire water and the mentioned bets. 

Now, the arena was empty. Their footsteps echoed in the otherwise silent space slightly illuminated by few light sources. For anyone other than Dottore, this place would seem horrific with huge silhouettes of strange equipment, but the Second was familiar with his “home”. He enjoyed the smell of sweat mixed with blood and despair. It brought back the memories of the fights, filling him with excitement. 

With a sight, he fished for the remote in his pocket. Simply tapping a few of the buttons, he prepared the place for his experiment. Ordering Tartaglia to enter the premises of a large circle now separated by a metal fence, Dottore climbed to the “observatory” located at the top of the arena. 

“Prepare yourself.” 

That was the only warning he gave Tartaglia before a metal door was opened and a group of Rifthounds entered. Led by huge gold one, dozen of the smaller beasts followed growling with bared teeth ready to sink into the Eleventh flesh. 

The show was about to begin. 

Tartaglia summoned his polearm. Infusing the weapon with electro and hydro, he launched forward to meet the feral hounds. He danced through them, swinging the pole, slicing them and teleporting to avoid poisonous bites. Albeit he didn’t remember his life, the fall to the Abyss, his muscle memory still knew how to fight abyss creatures. 

His performance was terrifying. 

Seeing him bathed in cold blood, swiftly dodging the attacks or parrying hounds fangs with his own bracers, made Dottore uneasy. He really didn’t witness Tartaglia’s abilities before, but watching him now spreading chaos and terror… Dottore’s gut felt weird. Just imagining what will happen if Childe gains back control over his body remembering what Dottore did to him. 

No, he shouldn't think about failure. He would never fail Tsaritsa. His plan was flawless. Completely flawless. As a prime of his life - the main segment who held the power over the other segments of his existence created in different times of his life - he was destined to not make any mistakes. He had all the memories of his other selves, and had the knowledge obtained from previous experiments. 

This project was perfect. Nothing could break the device's control over Tartaglia’s body and to prove that no one, not even an archon, would be able to steal his specimen, Dottore will send the perfect soldier back to Liyue. To finally erase the pest known as the Adepti and ex-archon Morax. 

What will the Prime Adeptus do? Will he end Tartaglia? Will he throw away his camouflage and strike against the Tsaritsa once he learns that his precious comrade is now… suspended? 

Or maybe the Rex Lapis won’t be able to face the raw power of Tartaglia’s Foul Legacy and Delusion combined.  Who knows?

Smiling under the mask, Dottore returned his attention back to the battle. It seemed Tartaglia was even more… antsy in his fighting. No, he wasn’t careless or hot-headed as he used to be sometimes but the surgical precision he was putting in his attacks, the speed, the need for conquering his opponent - this all made his perfect weapon ready to be unleashed on Liyue. 

Once the fight finished, Rifthounds nowhere to see and Tartaglia standing, not breaking a sweat, with his eye focused on Dottore who dropped from the observatory, now standing in front of his soldier. 

“Do you feel any pain?” 

“No, my Lord. I feel fine.” Answered Tartaglia with his distorted voice which was lacking any kind of emotion. 

Dottore just nodded, making mental notes about Tartaglia’s physical condition. His skills were fine, maybe better than fine. Albeit he wasn’t certainly sure how his consciousness was doing. It would be definitely better to give him one more dosage of the serum and run a few more tests before he sends him to his first mission. 

“Let’s prepare you for your mission.”

Chapter Text

Many days later when Dottore finished all his tests and when Tartaglia boarded the boat back to Liyue, Childe became aware of his surroundings once more. He was utterly confused since the last thing he remembered was the glass cage, the screams and then nothing else. Only darkness and nasty chill biting his bones. 

With questions in his mind, he realized where he was. Boat. Warm wind caressing his face. Sea. His beating heart. Sky. Dull ache in his chest. Sun kissing him albeit he wasn’t sure if he could feel it. He imagined the warmth as well as he was imagining the wind bringing salty water to his nostrils, although he didn’t feel anything. 

He was there. Sitting somewhere in his head observing the endless blue water, thinking about hazy memories but he cannot connect to his physical form. Commanding his muscles to at least move his finger or to flex, he was met only with stillness of the soldier who was now in full control of his body. 

Panic reached his mind. What was happening with him? Why was he on the boat? And why for the sake of Archons he wasn’t able to control his body?

A land appeared on the horizon. Recognizing the huge harbor, Childe realized he was on his way back to Liyue Harbor for some reason. Why would Dottore send him back if he was doing his experiments on him? And why Liyue of all lands?  It must be a part of the test, he thought. Maybe not being able to move a muscle was resolved by the strange experiments containing his Foul Legacy form. 

Was there a way he could gain back control? Or could he at least communicate with the force possessing his body? If he could reach the “neighbor” in his vessel… 

Sudden movement of his build made him nauseous. It felt strange to be just an observer, not knowing what his vessel would do next, not feeling anything else, just his own mind which was grewing hazy. He knew he was losing himself, distancing further from his body, slowly falling down the Abyss once again. Although this time, he had no hands to crawl back. No weapon to wield. Just his spirit, tainted with slaughter and blood. 

Remembering his childhood, being a part of a large family, being a son or brother, seemed so distastant now, like it was just a dream. Everything was under water or in a mist. He couldn’t tell since the colors were once more gone leaving him in the dark. So dark, even the spark in his eyes was devoured by it. 

Before he was completely swallowed, he was able to hold the last picture. His little brother Teucer – the one sibling he cherished and spoiled. Childe had always had a weak spot for him since he saw himself in that little boy. And maybe if his older siblings were there as he was for Teucer, Childe would never dwell into the forest when he was fourteen, he would never have fallen down the Abyss, never met Skirk… Never traded himself for the forbidden knowledge and its power providing him with the opportunity to protect his family. 

And now, even this is gone. 

Ajax died. Tartaglia survived. 

“Is that you, dear Childe? What brings you back to Liyue? I doubt it’s the cuisine,” 

That voice… He knew it. 

◈ ◈ ◈

Night was spread upon Liyue and its sky covered in thousands and thousands of stars reminding Morax of certain Traveler and worlds far, far away from Teyvat. Eying the Moon which sat at its highest peak, observing the Liyue landscape side by side with the infamous Rex Lapis, gentle breeze brought the smell of sea even to Mt. Tianheng where once the God of War was sitting comfortably on a wooden bench accompanied only by the already mentioned Moon and stars. 

His life became quite peaceful since he handed his Gnosis over to the Fatui to do whatever they wanted, in order to challenge Celestia. He was done with being Archon. He already lost so much to the endless conflict between the good and evil, so why should he continue in this meaningless pursuit after something greater. 

The time of Adepti – of Archons, Gods and other Divine Deity – was over. The world was changing, humans were able to take care of themselves and he was tired of his endless battle against Erosion. 

Azhdaha. His Yakshas. Guizhong.  

Memory of white hair braided in elegant style with Glaze Lilies weaved in as a sort of decoration, flashed in front of Morax eyes. He used to help her with untangling the hair once they laid together in his Abode with other Adepti.

She taught him so much. 

When he met her, he was just a Morax – brute in all ways – the title of God of War was something he was proud of since he conquered many lands even before the Archon War. Reshaping every piece of his territory, he did not care for mortals or for anyone thus far. But after he met a gentle goddess in Guili Plans which he planned to add to his collection of land, he realized his loneliness and desire for ally. 

And then they slain her. 

She protected their people which he grew fond of as well as his Adepti. After her death, Morax was so heartbroken and angry, so he used all of his powers to end the war as soon as possible to retain peace and protect all dear to him. From that day, he became Rex Lapis – protector of the people of Liyue and the God of Contracts. 

Simply distancing himself from human kind and living all alone except a few occasions when he annually showed himself, granted some blessings to the business and observed the prosperity of his nation. It took him millenia to pull himself together, to heal from his loss and to return back to being the true Archon of his people. 

He kept telling himself that working his head off, protecting Liyue and thinking how to secure the land, was a normal thing. Just recently he realized it was just a coping mechanism and a way of his how to punish himself from the fact that Guizhong died and four of his Yakshas submitted to the Karmic Debt. 

After overhearing the conversation between two laborers, Morax decided to retire and enjoy the rest of life in peace since that would be what Guizhong wanted him to do instead of suffering. So, he made the whole plan of his death, made a contract with Fatui which led to meeting a certain Harbinger. 

Childe was the exact opposite of Guizhong in many ways, but he shared something that made Morax fall in love with the goddess. It was his kindness which many people did not see. Although he was a Tsaritsa’s soldier, unlike the rest of the Harbingers, he wasn’t cruel.  

The way he honored fair battle was just one of the proofs. Another one was his relationship with employees which seemed to like him – not like La Signora who was feared among them. Adding the way he treated the townsfolk – generous tips, warm smiles and constant praise – Morax was sure of his heart. 

Maybe that was the reason why he loved his company so much. But that was over. Childe already left for Snezhnaya and with the charade Morax played, he was sure the Harbinger would never return (maybe the ban Tianquan laid upon him after releasing Osial was adding another weight to imaginary scales).  

Gazing upon the silent harbor, Morax sighed in his despair. Surely, he deserved to be abandoned by Childe. They were on fair conditions – the Harbinger sealing off the Osial, almost drowning the city and Morax lying to him, pulling his socks and pretending that the feelings he held among him were just a part of the game. Although it wasn’t. 

With eyes focused on the dark sea, where his nemesis laid, the ex-archon noticed a lonely boat sailing straight to the coast. He simply tilted his head, thinking about the reason why the boat wasn’t heading to the harbor, to safely anchor. It was suspicious enough for him to teleport to the sea-shore and observe. 

Wind blew his coat apart as he stepped onto the sand-covered beach. Waves splashed around him, almost reaching his expensive-looking shoes. Morax tasted salt on his tongue, when he crouched behind a large rock to merge with darkness. From this place, the view of the not so large boat was allowing him to see the crew and strange cargo held in the wooden boxes. 

As the boat hit shore, he could hear muffled voices slurred by the crashing waves and wind. Based on his knowledge and the bits of conversation, he guessed the crew was Snezhnayan. Not only their language, but the heavy coats unfitted for Liyue climate, were the proofs for his theory to be right. 

His attention was then shifted to a particular member of the crew. Orange hair formed in the spikes made him question if it was really the person he was longing to see. But from further examination, Morax realized he was halfway right. 

The person in front of him shared too many of Childe’s features including the Delusion pinned to his chest and mask hiding his face. Albeit… There was something off. The dark armor lingered with purple streaks wasn't a regular part of Childe’s attire. Same applied to the odor of Abyss tainting the air with the sourness and bitterness of that forsaken place. 

Nor the fact that this creature resembling Childe was much taller and had something else which was odd. He could not tell what that was, but Morax was sure it wasn’t to do good. Sneaking during the night, looking for a remote place to anchor… There was something Fatui were planning and wasn’t about to let happen. The contract between him and the Tsaritsa did not mention anything about him not stopping intruders in his territory, nor banning him from seeking further answers. 

“Is that you, dear Childe? What brings you back to Liyue? I doubt it’s the cuisine.”

Chapter Text

That thing on the boat was definitely Childe – although it wasn’t his Childe. It must have been his Foul Legacy transformation, that one the Traveler talked about just recently after they met to further discuss the matters of his fight in the Golden House. Morax wasn’t surprised to hear about Childe’s connections to the Abyss – that man reek of its odor almost every time Morax met him. 

But seeing the transformation in its full beauty was something totally different. 

Black armor lingered with the deepest shade of purple covering almost his whole body except for his hair which was shaped like flame, sticking behind his red mask. In the center of the mask was sitting a huge blueish pearl-like orb which was probably granting Childe vision. Yet, there was something else on the very top of the orb. 

It resembled a lens-like device sitting on the glossy surface of the orb. Morax squinted his eyes to better focus on that thing. It might be just a part of the armor. He wasn’t sure, but something was telling him to pay special attention to that piece. 

Morax was standing just a few feets from his original hiding spot. Before he could proceed further, he was surrounded by a squat of Fatuus aiming their guns at him. He knew from the beginning that this wasn’t just a regular boat, but he was still taken by surprise by how many soldiers were present. 

“Lord Morax! I’m glad you made it. You are just in time.” 

Deep voice tainted by Abyss spoke with the same bubbliness as Childe usually did. It sounded a bit funny to hear such cheerfulness from such a monstrous creature. 

“Tell your soldiers to stand down. I oppose no threat to you.”

His own silky smooth voice echoed as the sea rumbled around them. Guns were still pointed towards his head which was a bit uncomfortable for negotiation. He would prefer to sit down with a cup of tea and talk all the matters through, albeit it seemed Childe wasn’t eager to speak. 

“You are right. You oppose no threat to us, Morax. But I don’t want you to do anything silly.”

“Me and your Tsaritsa struck a deal. The contract prevents Fatui from attacking Liyue and its citizens for as long as my Gnosis is in her possession.” 

Long silence layed heavily, allowing Morax to think and prepare his plan in case Childe would decide to confront him. Without his Gnosis, he was not as powerful as Archon, but he still held the strength of Rex Lapis who won the Archon War, without possessing such a thing in the first place. He obtained the Gnosis after the original Seven ascended to the Celestia, becoming archons. 

“You are correct, Morax. We cannot attack Liyue and its citizens but… The contract does not say anything about confronting you. ”

And with those words, Childe launched into the air. 

Eyes widened in realization, Morax raised his geo shield before a lightning bolt could strike him down. The cracking of electro was everywhere around him as well as the bullets bouncing off his barrier. Calling for his spear, Morax dodged several direct attacks from Childe, who was extremely fast and precise. 

He knew the harbinger was a great fighter, but his speed was something he might have underestimated in this current situation. Erecting geo slopes around himself, he was able to create some sort of protection. First off, Morax needed to get rid of the soldiers so he could fully focus on his fight with Childe. 

In a swift movement of his spear, he sent waves of rock straight to the snipers. Some of them stumbled, falling backwards. But their place was soon taken by others, resuming the salve. He growled. Parrying the next round of attacks, Morax was soon to lose his footing and eventually met with Childe’s weapon which hit the god’s ribs. 

The pain was bearable, but that wasn’t his biggest fear right now. His face received a few more hits, making Morax a little bit confused and dizzy. He was still holding back the urge to take his true form and tear all the attackers to the bits. Morax didn’t want to hurt any of them. Especially Childe who was… He wasn’t sure what was happening but something seemed off. 

But maybe he was lying to himself. Maybe this was Childe’s revenge for the charade and betrayal Zhongli played. Morax chuckled. He probably deserved to get beaten by him. So he stopped protecting himself from the direct attacks and let Childe use his anger. He believed the man will exhaust himself eventually and then they can talk things out. 

His body was slammed against the sturdy surface of the rock – the same one he used to hide before. Morax felt something crack in his back. That would probably require medical attention. Blood was soaking his expensive coat, as it was dripping off his chin from the bleeding lip. 

“You gave up so easily, Morax?” 

Roared the deep voice.

Childe was holding him in place with his huge hand, pressing Morax’s aching body deeper in the rock. But with an answer on his tongue, something made Childe let go of his abused body and shifted his attention to somewhere else. Morax slowly stood up with his spear as a crutch to support himself. His shield still held tightly, preventing bullets and other ranged attacks to hurt him further. 

As soon as Morax raised his gaze, he was met with a quick movement of gold and brown streak accompanied by a gust of anemo power which cast Childe’s figure into the group of soldiers. With a heavy thunk the Harbinger collapsed just to leap into the air once more, aiming for the small person now standing in front of Morax. 

Golden braid blowing in the wind just in front of Morax helped him swiftly recognize who his savior was. Looking over his shoulder to check on him, Aether held his frown when he raised his sword to block another attack. He was silent, parrying Childe’s attempts to break through and went straight for Morax. 

“Are you alright, Zhongli? We saw how badly Childe hurt you! Paimon was worried!” 

A high pitch squawk next to his left, made Morax jump from the surprise. He was still dizzy and confused from the hits – maybe a little concussed. 

“No harm was done to me, Paimon. At least nothing of serious matter.” 

Wiping blood from his face, he sensed Paimon clasping around his middle, burning her face into his blood-soaked shirt. 

“Why did you not fight back, Zhongli? Paimon knows you are stronger than Childe! Did something happen to you before?”

Morax was silent. His gaze shifted to the fighting duo. He was well aware of the bullets hitting his shield and soldiers closing around him, but his focus was fully on the Aether who was now wielding four elements, easily pushing Childe in his Foul Legacy back. 

Would Childe really kill him, if not for traveler to sweep by? 

His conclusion might have been completely wrong before, judging now. How could he let Childe beat him just because he felt like he deserved it for toying with the Harbinger? He should have put him in the place and talk the matters out right away. It was silly of him. So silly and stupid. 

“Hey! Paimon is talking to you, Zhongli!”

“Later, dear Paimon. I must help Aether.”

And with that Morax became once more the true God of War. Unleashing a wave of geo energy which shook the land violently, sent everyone in its radius falling down as the earth kept trembling under the ex-archon’s power. The volley of bullets ceased. He could feel his elemental energy leaking as he erected a huge barrier around fallen soldiers, preventing them from escaping and attacking. 

He did not wish to hurt mere mortals which did not have anything to do with their leader’s orders. So, Morax simply just locked them away which he should have done earlier to begin with. Childe truly managed to mess up his judgment badly. With a more clear mind, it was easy to plan his next moves. 

His attention now fully on the fighting duo, was soon drawn closely to the Aether who was positively parrying Childe’s attempts to gut his bare midsection. The boy looked so small compared to the Harbinger who was swinging his polearm with such fierceness. Each movement was precisely calculated, aiming at the weak spots of Aether’s body. 

But the traveler was perfectly able to dodge or stop each attack. He gained two more elements at his disposal which helped him to land a few successful blows leaving nothing more than a shallow scratch on the black armor. 

Aether was a great warrior, probably older than he appeared to be, but even that fact cannot help him escape the wrath of Eleventh Harbinger. Without his former power, he was doomed to lose. And he did in fact. It was the moment, when he dodge a rather aggressive swing, Childe swiftly teleported right behind him striking with his electro infused polearm. 

A sudden yelp and muffled cry escaped Aether’s lips as he was thrown feets away from his original position. Before Morax could run for his friend, Paimon was already by his side, helping him stand up and checking his injuries. This was the right opportunity for Morax to put this fight to an end. 

“Why don’t you pick up on someone of your class, Tartaglia?” 

His smooth voice was carried by the howling wind. 

Childe did not respond with words, instead he launched for Morax who was now facing him with a rather peaceful expression. Ready to parry the attack, he hit the ground with his spear, creating a wall of stone in front of him. The Harbinger managed to stop his movement before he could crash into the solid rock, which gave Morax the right opportunity to land his attack. 

Moving with grace yet with brutal force, he jumped into the air and swiftly dashing a few feet forward to plunge with his spear. Summoning additional geo ones he made contact with Childe. The Harbinger backed off a few steps as he was hit with attack by attack of rocks and Morax’s weapon. The god was faster and more experienced than mere mortal with Abyssal power in his grasp. 

He felt deep sorrow when he landed his final strike putting Childe down like he was nothing more than a weak hillichurl. It didn’t bring him any pleasure to secure his body with geo shackles, preventing him from doing something stupid again. 

“Are you done raging out, Childe?” 

Morax questioned with arms folded across his chest. He was observing the Harbinger who was heavily panting. Laying on his side revealed the damage Morax has done to his armor. Scratches. Nothing pierced through even when he used his strongest attacks. 

“He should probably return to normal in a while.” Said Paimon who was now floating next to the Aether who seemed to be doing fine except the bruises and cuts lingering on his body. 

“Is that so?” 

“He cannot hold this form for a long period of time.” Confirmed Aether. “It puts a huge toll on his body.” 

Eyes glimmering with curiosity, Morax turned to meet Aether’s gaze. 

“Can you recall how long he spent in this form last time? Before he turned back?”

“I’m not sure to be honest.” He scratched his head. “Probably a few minutes? He will definitely be back to normal in no time, considering how long we fought. When did he turn into this anyway?” 

Morax’s features darkened. 

“He was already transformed when I ran into him.” 

They shared a worried look. 

“We should probably take him somewhere safe for him to recover a little bit. He seems to be worn off pretty badly.” Aether’s voice was filled with fear for his comrade – even after their fight at the Golden House he still held some kind of feelings for him and letting him here alone seemed cruel. 

“Childe? Can you undo this matter by yourself or do you need our help?” 

Morax tried to remain calm, but he was deeply worried for his friend even after this fiasco. He wished no harm to him and seeing him laying on the ground, evidently exhausted from the fight and his transformation, made his heart ache. 

There was no response. 

After a brief moment of silence, Morax spoke again. 

“Aether, can you fetch Millileth to collect these Fatui soldiers? I will take Childe to my abode so he can rest and answer our questions later when he is himself again.”

The traveler nodded. 

Morax just smiled before he teleported himself and Childe away.

Chapter Text

Screams pushed through his throat, making it dry even in this intangible form. He could feel the panic reaching him, taking over his senses which were hazy, wrapped by the silver mist. The outside world was once more visible to him, yet he was still unable to interact with anything around. 

Abstract tears pouring down his ghostly cheeks made him aware of the horrors he was witnessing. His own body moving against his will, hitting the divine face in front of him with quick blows, would probably be burned into his memory for the whole eternity. Amber eyes filled with unspilled tears, pain filled moans and expression full of something Childe couldn’t quite make out. 

Zhongli did not fight him back. 

He was submissively accepting his fists like it was a blessing for his soul. That made Childe’s heart ache even more. How could Zhongli let him do this? Why? Why not end his life instead? At this point, Childe was positively sure his consciousness was only a side product of Dottore’s experiment. There was no way he could gain back control over his body. He lost hope since hope was dangerous. 

Why? Because hoping for something better was useless – it only poisons the mind, fills the heart with desire and unrealistic dreams. He learnt his lesson in the Abyss. And with his Tsaritsa. So why should he repeat the same mistake for the third time? 

Please fight, Zhongli. Don’t let it win. 

With this as his last thought, the heavy mist swallowed him once more. 

◈ ◈ ◈

Morax moved Childe into one of the largest rooms in his abode. The domain was a replica of once an empire he and Guizhong built in Guili Plains where their people lived before that unfortunate day when his dear friend and companion passed away. 

His palace was huge, with multiple rooms while all of them bore typical Liyuen decorations and architecture. Unlike traditional houses, his place was much bigger to accommodate his dragon form without any damage done to the precisely decorated interior. Lanterns illuminated his way till he reached desired destination. 

Leaving Childe alone even for a brief moment when Morax excused himself to attend other matters like speaking to the realm spirit about his new guest, made the dragon uneasy. Therefore no danger was present in his abode, he was still worried about Childe’s condition. Mortals were so fragile and his experience with the Abyss was slim… 

He needed to discuss this situation with someone who could provide some information about Childe’s condition. But who could help? There was no one among the adepti who possessed knowledge about Abyss and its corruption. 

Entering a large room with a bed in its center, his eyes quickly darted across the space to search for anything that could harm him or the boy laying on the bed. Dim lights allowed him to navigate and made his way to the armchair rested near bed. He sat down, his gaze shifting to the already mentioned boy who was simply staring at him with his one eye. 

The geo binds restrained Childe to the point he was no threat to himself or to Morax, but the dragon still felt unsure about his presence. He believed that somewhere inside this creature was his dear companion but the picture in front of him was still unpromising. 

“Are you in need of anything? Should I do anything in your regards?” Morax spoke with softness which was nothing more than a weak try to lure Childe back into his senses. 

“The only thing I desire is my mission fulfilled.” 

The Abyssal creature repeated the same mantra it has been repeating the whole time Morax tried to talk to it. It was probably a few hours since the fight, but it seemed more like a few minutes to him. The ex-archon’s brow furrowed in response. He already tried to ask about the mission and no answer was granted. So, he spared himself the effort and focused on different topic. 

“What happened to you? Who made you come back to Liyue?”

Nothing. 

Childe was silently staring at Morax, blinking a few times like the question required some more processing. Yet it seemed, the creature did not plan on answering any time soon. 

Morax was still questioning the lense-like device planted on Childe’s mask. It felt odd. Like it wasn’t part of his being. It could have been just something his Foul Legacy had naturally, but still it was bugging him all the time he was observing his “guest”. 

At some point, he rose from the chair to stretch his legs a little bit. The effects of Childe’s transformation should wear off at any moment. Aether told him that right after the battle yet he was still refusing to turn back and have proper talk with Morax. This way, he would harm himself. It appeared to Morax, Childe cannot hold this form for too long since it would harm him in physical and maybe even in psychological way. 

“Alright Childe, I think it’s time to quit this nonsense. You know, if Tsaritsa pushed you to attack me… I understand. It’s not your fault for following her orders. Just… come back to me. I want to see you well and we can set this matter right.” 

Morax’s words hung in the air, filling the room with a velvety voice which was once more silenced by the tension between two men. Childe wasn’t eager to speak. He was simply staring with an empty orb instead of his eyes right into the ceiling which provided nothing more than blank space. 

His heart ached. To see his friend like this was something even the ex-archon could not bear. It reminded him of Guizhong. The scene in front of his eyes when he arrived too late to see his mate in a pool of blood… 

‘I’m sorry, Guizhong. I’m so sorry…’ His voice was raw from the crying. He could feel his throat closing with anxiety and the silent sobs which dared to escape from his pursed lips. Morax clenched his jaw. The pain in his chest… 

He gently touched the lifeless face with eyelids half-closed, offering a glimpse of once smart eyes filled with curiosity and joy. Her smile resonated in his mind. How could he forget? How could he let go of her, when she was there in front of him. Unaware of his movements, he stroked Guizhong’s cheek, catching a trace of a single tear. 

‘I’m sorry.’

Morax snapped back to the present. 

Focusing on his heart which was more like a war drum beating in his chest, he was able to calm down his feelings eventually. It took some effort to escape the images of the past filled with dead bodies of once loved-ones, dear friends or respected opponents. 

Childe deserved more. He wasn’t letting him go as he let go of so many. So, if it was Harbinger’s own choice or not, Morax decided to do everything in order to bring his friend back. Was it selfish? Probably yes, but what was he supposed to do? Watch as Childe wither away? 

He noticed the worn off state Childe was in. How could he not? It wasn’t visible at the first sight but after some time in his presence, Morax saw his labored breathing and dizziness, Childe was hiding all the time. At the beginning, he was struggling with geo shackles holding him into place – now, he wasn’t even moving outside his breathing or head tilting. 

Morax sigh. 

“Xiao?”

“Yes, my lord?” 

In a swirl of anemo tainted by karmic debt, a small figure appeared right next to Morax who was still sitting in his armchair. Xiao was quick to answer as always, never letting his lord wait for him to make an appearance. Yet, the young adeptus seemed to be even quicker today. 

“Fetch the Traveler. I need his help in this matter.” 

“Understood, my lord. Anything else?” Xiao’s raspy voice was filled with respect and loyalty he showed only to his Prime Adeptus. 

The young one seemed more interested in this matter than Morax would guess. Perhaps, a certain Traveler had something to do with it. He was aware of their growing friendship and honestly, it was a good thing. The ex-archon was trying to force his yaksha into the company of mortals for centuries, yet it was a descender who seized the heart of the adeptus. 

Did Aether count as mortal? Probably not – not completely, but it was a step the yaksha needed to do. 

“Would you mind checking Childe’s body? You are quite knowledgeable when it comes to corruption, so your opinion might hold a certain value in this case, Xiao.”

“I don’t know, my lord. Karma and miasma are different things. Abyssal corruption is not something I can quite understand. I can give you my insight but I highly doubt it will bring any fruits.”

Morax raised hand to rest it on his chin in a pensive gesture. When his eyes darted to the Childe and then back to the Xiao, he simply sighed.

“Well then, I believe your effort can still provide some kind of help.”

“Alright, my lord. I’ll try to be as discreet as possible.”

With a nod, Morax hinted to Childe laying next to the debating duo. Xiao took that request and approached resting Harbinger with caution. Not letting his guard down for even a second, the adeptus simply placed his gloved hand onto one of the massive arms. His hawk-like eyes closed for a second or two before they opened again with a distant gaze. 

Taking a few more moments to settle his thoughts, Xiao kept his hand resting on the boy’s body. Morax felt yaksha’s power filling the room with cold breeze bringing a scent of cardamom and bergamot lingered with coppery smell typical to the battlefields. Hairs on Morax’s forearms raised with the static electricity which suddenly invaded the room. 

What was that?

Unsettling feeling laid upon both of the adepti as Xiao yanked his hand back like he was struck by lightning. The yaksha knitted his brow, mumbling something under his nose. 

“Well?”

A deep voice drew Xiao’s attention to its owner who was about to erect his geo shield to even the smallest disturbance. Something was definitely wrong. Morax knew. Xiao knew even better with his dreamwalking abilities. 

“I don’t know what is happening with his physical body, but his mental self is present yet the strings holding his power over his vessel are… wrong. They are not cutted, yet it’s like something is lulling him to be distant.” 

The yaksha seemed to be unsure in his statement, however he kept going.

“I can feel his soul being torn. There’s ache running deep down into that Harbingers being. He reeks of Abyss even inside. But he is not corrupted or possessed. His mind is clear in that case. Yet, I sense the presence of others in his head.”

“You think someone is mind-controlling him?”

“It is possible. I may try to establish a dream in his mind and see if I can talk to him, but I would rather not right now. He is unstable and I fear my attempts might crush the remains of himself.”

Xiao’s voice was tender. Morax did not expect his yaksha to be so willing. He made it quite visible how much he disliked the Harbinger from the hesitance he showed at the beginning. It was definitely Aether’s doing. He was sure, the young Travel talked Xiao into participating if needed. 

“That’s alright, Xiao. Thank you for your help. Go get the Travel so we can think something through.” 

“Yes, my lord.” 

And with that, Xiao was nothing more than a puff of dark anemo. It took less than a minute and the adeptus was back again with a second person in his arms, looking confused and startled. Aether clung to the Xiao like his life was depending on it. 

“The next time,” Aether said with his expression turning from confusion to mild anger, “Don’t just scoop me up like this. Paimon is going to worry! You can just give me a minute to explain!” 

The Travel freed himself from Xiao’s hands, getting his legs in contact with the ground. His low braid swung from side to side with that movement. 

“I’m sorry, but I did not want to make Lord Morax wait, Aether.”  

“Well, I’m pretty sure a moment or two won’t matter to him.” Snapped Traveler, turning his gaze towards Morax who rose from his chair in one smooth movement. Aether smiled, nodding his head in a silent greet. His relatively good spirits did not last long, because as he wandered his golden eyes around the unfamiliar room, he soon recognized Childe’s limp body. 

“He hasn't changed back yet?”

Morax shook his head. 

Aether’s expression shifted once again. His lips pressed into thin line with a gaze filled with something like worry for the Harbinger. Morax quickly explained the situation and described what Xiao proposed with his dream-walking skills. 

The Traveler moved closer to the bed, to examine Childe’s form from closer. His eyes widened when he noticed the device attached to the mask. He turned to meet Morax. 

“This thing… It hasn’t been a part of his transformation from what I remember.” 

“I found it odd, too.” 

Morax was glad his presumption wasn’t completely wrong but it made him less certain in this matter. Was it possible to remove it safely? Can they even remove it? He did not dare to ask aloud, so instead he simply proposed this action right away. 

Aether had the same thoughts as him. Yet, he did not cower to ask the right questions. 

“What if we hurt him?” 

“I understand your fears, Traveler, but I assume this is the only thing right now we can do in order to help our dear Childe. I’m simply acting based on the knowledge you and Xiao presented to me. If this device is something you don’t recognize from your previous encounter and if the Fatui or someone else is controlling Childe, this is logically the best option we have.” 

Aether sigh. 

“You are right. This is the best option we have. I’m just looking for excuses.” 

Morax smiled. 

“Having doubts is the right thing. You think before you act. Something even I lacked in my younger days.” 

After a few moments of silence, the ex-archon spoke again: “Should I do it or do you want to keep the honor?” 

“I think it’s for the best if you do it, Zhongli. You are closer to him.”

Aether encouraged and took a step back to stand next to the Xiao, who was silent as always, waiting for orders or for a threat to rise. They gave Morax the space to prepare himself before touching the strange device. Xiao seemed a little bit unsure about it, even taking a step forward to stop his lord from doing the inevitable, but Morax calmed the yaksha down. 

“You don’t have to be afraid, Xiao. I’m going to be alright.”

And with that, Morax pulled the device off.

Chapter Text

As Morax unyieldingly grabbed the lens-like device with enough force yet still gentle enough to not hurt Childe, the atmosphere in the room darkened. Xiao was tense, his guard up and body ready to strike if needed. Aether on the other hand looked more worried with streaks of hope appearing in his golden eyes. 

Detaching the thin belts which holded the whole thing on a mask surface, he slowly peeled the device off. Setting the cursed thing onto near nightstand, Morax turned back to face Childe whose mask was now bared for his eyes to see. The orb in the middle looked more like Childe’s actual eye color. Murky blue with a bit of violet tones reminded Morax of Noctilucous Jade or even the Starsilver ore from Dragonspine. 

Morax never understood why this young boy had such soulless eyes. Their depth was the same one as the Abyss, devouring all the light making it seem like the spark was bleeding into the iris itself. Now, Morax knew. Learning about his Foul Legacy and business with Abyss, made him even sadder than not knowing this mystery. 

Once the device was gone the tension in the room rose sky-high. 

It took a few moments before something actually happened. Deep purple particles which reminded Morax of embers rose from Childe’s body which was now covered by a writhing dark mist. Xiao and Aether dashed to his side either to protect the ex-archon or to witness the actual thing. 

Slowly, the Harbinger shrunk to his original size. 

His auburn hair looked terrible. Messy with a dry blood almost everywhere, Morax noticed few purple streaks running down, extremely contrasting with the rest. His curiosity bugged him to pry even more. Soon, Morax examined Childe’s face which was pale in color. This paleness made Harbinger’s freckles to stand even more, not to mention the dark veins now lingering his cheeks and further the neck running down. 

When following this marking, Morax eyed his torso, now half covered by black armor which was too similar to Abyss Heralds with the bluish and violet undertones. But the corruption did not end here. It continued in a form of thick spasming veins spreading across his chest and burrowing under the armor plates. 

Childe looked like… He looked like a true monster which climbed up from the Abyss, ready to devour their world. 

“My lord,” Xiao whispered, “This mortal is severely corrupted.”

“I know, my vigilant yaksha.”

“How can we help him? Can we do something?” Aether’s voice was gentle, yet determined to find some sort of help for the unconscious Harbinger.

Morax let his gloved hand stroke Childe’s unresponsive face. His own featured were caught in a sorrowful expression he darted to hold even when he turned around to face his companions. 

“I don’t know. I’m not an expert in these waters. Only if there would be someone capable of diagnosing his state…” 

“I’ve met someone.” Traveler spoke with a distant gaze. “He is well knowledgeable in the matter of Abyss.”

Both adepti looked in his direction, awaiting further information but it seemed like Aether wasn’t going to share anything else with them. He was a rather silent person. 

“If your friend would be willing to help, I’ll be sure to reward him afterwards.” 

“I’m not sure if I can find him, but I might try. It’s not been a long since we last met.” 

Morax just nodded. 

“In a meantime, Xiao, can you stop by in Liyue Harbor to inform Dr. Baizhu? His skills might be useful and he can help us discuss what to do next.” 

Xiao simply bowed, then reached his hand to the Aether who took it without hesitation. 

“Take care of yourself, Traveler. When you are ready to meet us, just call for Xiao. He will be ready to teleport you and your friend right away.” 

“Of course, Zhongli. Take care of Childe for me and Paimon. He might be a pain in the ass but he is too great a warrior to die like this.” 

“Don’t worry. He is in the best hands.” Said Xiao who was growing impatient by their exchange of words. 

“Until next time, Aether.” 

◈ ◈ ◈

Childe was drowning. 

He felt his lungs being filled with cold thick liquid which was making him choke and desperately gasping for air. The dread rolled over him. He was dying. He was dying. 

It was like his body was torn apart limb by limb and then sewn back together in a wrong order. His mind did not understand what was happening or where he was taken. Everything was simply smooshed together in a big chunk of noise and overwhelming feelings which made him nauseous. 

His senses returned to him one by one, starting with hearing and the ability to feel the touch, pressure and temperature… It was still distant but he was able to tell the softness of sheets covering his build and warmness of this place. 

Sweet smell of oranges filled his nose and lulled him into peacefulness. His breathing was once again even with lungs slowly expanding. No more heavy liquid was in his throat. Regaining control over his vessel, Childe relaxed. 

Presence of the other one was gone. His head was clear or he thought it was. 

Trying to open his eyes, the eyelids felt heavier than he remembered. Lashing trembling, muscles around his face desperately trying to unseal the glued skin but with no results. They remained shut despite his effort. 

Panic rose from his chest, reaching the mind, making him feel once again like he was drowning. Childe sunk deep. Falling down and down, into the endless darkness which threatened to swallow him. 

What was happening? Why was he losing everything he just regained? 

Raw scream tore thought his throat. 

Hot pain made him go blind, scorching every piece of his mind which stayed sane. Flashes of blood covered snow, of monsters lurking around him, ready to launch forward for his bare neck, and extreme cold settling in his bones, made Childe remember his time in Abyss. The agony of a world without light which stole sparks from his eyes, was too familiar. 

He could smell rotting meat and sweat with tints of piss which was covering his crotch.

It was a memory. It was just a memory from years ago, but it felt so real. He knew that he managed to escape from the Abyss and was safe in their world… Then why did everything feel so real? Why could he feel the cold around him biting on his bare arms? Why was he so aware of his surroundings? Dreams meant to be hazy. 

A monstrous roar got his attention. 

Standing behind him was a dragon. It wasn’t a pretty dragon like Dvalin or Morax, but rather a corrupted beast looking for dinner. Childe was terrified. Taking few steps back to put some distance between himself and the creature, he quickly reached for his hydro blades just to be met with hollowness from where he was used to draining his vision’s power. 

Dread pooled in his stomach. 

Before he could address this matter, the dragon made its move. It was fast. Very fast. 

The only thing Childe could do was to run for his life and pray to the archons he would soon wake up. His short legs were carrying him further away from the monster. He felt his heartbeat drumming in his ears, his breath being ragged. This small body couldn’t outrun the dragon. He was sure about it. 

As soon as his muscles started to protest against each movement, he started to slow down eventually. The beast was close. Ground shaking against its heavy body reaching the boy who almost collapsed when he realized only few meters were separating him from large head of creature whose maw was filled with teeth longer than his forearms, 

Mud squelched under his shoes when he suddenly tripped and ended up with scratched elbows, laying face down in the dirt. Quickly scrambling up, Childe screamed when his left leg was caught up in a tight hole. He tried to pull it off, but without any results. He was trapped. 

Turning around to face the dragon who was towering over him with its huge body, Childe knew he was about to die. Muscular paw reached to him, pinning him to the ground without a chance to escape. His lungs were squisted by the pressure, so it was almost impossible to breathe. 

He tried to look for some weapon of sorts but he was only met with more pressure on his aching body. Something in his chest snapped. It was probably one of the ribs. Tears trickled down his face and few sobs managed to escape from his lips. 

The pain was too great. His vision became blurry. 

Blood filled Childe’s mouth, when strong jaws locked around him and pressed. That was the last thing he could remember as his consciousness faded away. 

◈ ◈ ◈

The visit of Dr. Baizhu and little zombie-girl Qiqi provided some sort of relief for Morax, who was getting antsy. The healer duo was quick to work, not hesitating for a brief moment even when Morax revealed Childe’s corrupted body. They were true professionals, tending to Harbingers injuries without asking any prying questions. 

Dr. Baizhu agreed to keep Morax's identity and the truth of his fake death to himself. The doctor wasn’t easy to bribe, it cost Morax several pieces from his personal vault and the promise of sharing some of his ancient knowledge with Baizhu afterwards. This healer was sly as a fox. He knew which strings to pull to get what he desired. 

Morax really didn’t care. He would trade anything to get his friend help from the best healers. He also sent Xiao to ask Madame Ping for help, but her statements were the same as the statements of the mortal doctors. 

Heavy corruption ran deep down Childe’s body, poisoning his mind and vessel. She could only provide help in a form of relieving pain and checking his vitals which seemed to be completely fine. She recommended herbal tea and lots of rest since his body was extremely exhausted and needed treatment in the form of rehabilitation and further exercising. 

After all this, Childe remained unconscious without showing any sign of waking up. Morax made him drink a few sips of bitter tea which should help him regain his strength, but the Harbinger was still laying limp, breathing evenly. 

Both him and Xiao, agreed to let Childe rest for a day before they attempt to establish a dream in his subconsciousness and seek his presence. In a meantime, Morax contacted the other adepti to inform them about his whereabouts and about recent events which led him to stay in his teapot. Tsaritsa dared to attack him even after their agreement and that meant he wasn’t safe to be out in public. Nor the fact he held her Harbinger in is care. 

Xiao demanded to stay by his side in the teapot. His duty to protect the Lord of Geo was in the first place and to be honest, he really didn’t trust the sleeping Fatui. He might be his friend, he might be hurt but he was still a Fatui possessed by the Abyss who attempted to drown Liyue Harbor to lure Rex Lapis out. 

Morax understood his concern. In the end, he was happy to have someone by his side in all this heartache and pain. His despair was growing with each minute Childe spent unconscious. Morax only prayed for his friend to come back and eventually recover from what was done to him. 

A little visit to the Northland bank may sooth his ache. And maybe even bring some answers.

Chapter Text

Convincing Xiao to let him visit the Bank was actually harder than Morax thought. The Guardian Yaksha was against letting his lord straight into the lair of the enemy without any protection or anyone to accompany him. But Morax assured the adeptus of his own skills and insisted on going alone, since Zhongli was Funeral Consultant, a well known friend of Fatui. 

Well, he wasn’t certainly sure of the last statement since the attack but he highly doubted the Snezhnayans would try to attack him - not in the heart of Liyue Harbor during work day, nor now when he had their Harbinger in his care. He could use this as leverage. 

So, there he was standing in front of the building, clothed in his usual attire of brown coat and smooth appearance which won him the attention of townsfolk. Hands behind his back, Morax simply walked through the front door not paying attention to Vlad who was standing guard.

Entering the main hall with rich decorations and dimmed light pouring over the expensive looking furniture. Few people were at the counter, withdrawing their funds and talking over each other in what seemed like relaxed dialog. Morax actually felt a little bit bad for ruining their mood with what he was about to bring in. 

Morax marched right to the occupied counter, eyes locking with Ekaterina who was currently talking to her customers. He felt her surprise when she realized that Zhongli was looking rather furious with his brow knitted together and lips sealed in a thin line. 

“Excuse me, dear masters, I have something else to take care of now. Would you mind if we continue after I attend to this matter? You can sit in the lounge and have something to drink.” Ekaterina politely asked the trio of wealthy looking men dressed in heavy gowns. 

They weren’t pleased at all, but as soon as they noticed Morax standing behind them, they simply left with mumbling about rudeness and bribery. The ex-archon ignored them. His only plan was to encounter the embassy and pry further into the diplomatic relationship between him and the Tsaritsa. 

“What brings you here, Mr. Zhongli? If it’s about Lord Tartaglia, I must inform you, he is currently unavailable. He went back to the Snezhnaya weeks ago and hasn’t returned yet.” 

Ekaterina gave Morax a cold stare despite her almost warm words which might sound ordinary for any other person listening but with his knowledge, the message was clear: Leave. 

“I’m not here for your Master. I came to seek information.”

“I’m sorry, Mr. Zhongli, but I can’t help you with that.” 

The agent seemed to be determined in her decision. If it was for her, she would probably tell him if there was something to worry about. So, it was probably an order to keep everything a secret. Especially the attack on the beach and dealings with Milleliths who were currently investigating and looking for answers. 

Luckily, Aether reported that he was the one who was attacked, not Zhongli. He also kept Childe’s involvement for himself as it was the only thing holding Fatui from spilling Morax’s identity and blowing this charade. Liyue leaders will probably start to issue warrants for arresting even the Bank’s employees. 

“Ekaterina, you are a reasonable woman. Let’s talk somewhere more private.”

The receptionist just frowned. 

Morax quickly looked around them, before leaning over to her to whisper: “I can help you. I know there’s something bothering you. Let’s talk. We can have lunch.” 

But the woman simply shook her head. She grabbed the nearest pen and a piece of paper to write something down. When Ekaterina was done, she handed the paper to Morax who read the message. 

We are being watched. 

He knew someone must have been listening to them, but he didn’t know they were especially for Ekaterina. It was rather obvious with her position as a right hand of Childe and the leader of the bank’s employees. Being aware and cautious around her was a clever choice. Not to mention she was the only one from the Fatui stationed in Liyue to know about Morax’s true identity as the former Geo Archon. 

Raising his eyes from the note cleared his throat and said: “I understand, Ekaterina. I know it's a business secret. You must excuse me for prying into that, but Director Hu Tao was curious about your ways.” 

“No need to apologies, Mr. Zhongli. Well then is there any other business you’d like to discuss with me?” The agent seemed more relaxed now, although she still held her guard. Taking back the note she passed to Morax, the receptionist started to write something else. 

“Well, since I’m already here, I’d like to withdraw from my account.” 

“Oh, what a great idea. Is it for something special?” 

“It’s for the gift I commissioned last week. When Master Tartaglia returns, I want to surprise him with something nice.” 

Morax eyed back at the paper which Ekaterina handed to him with words: “That’s your current balance.”

There wasn’t anything connected to his account, instead another message:

Another Harbinger is in the town.

He took the pen which was laying on the wooden desk, writing: Can you tell me more?

“This is the amount I would like to withdraw now. Is it possible for me to get it right now?” 

Returning the piece of paper back, Ekaterina read his note with an impassive face. She gazed at him through her mask. “Of course. I’ll collect it right now.”

With that, she turned around, aiming for a wall full of cases with revolting amounts of money, to prepare his ‘money’. Morax meanwhile searched the hall in an attempt to catch something which would help him. Getting this information was successful enough, but getting more would definitely bring some fruit. 

When Ekaterina returned, she handed him a small pouch filled with golden coins. He politely accepted the offered item, locking his eyes with the receptionist who just nodded. 

“The receipt is inside.” 

“Thank you, dear Ekaterina. It’s a joy to make business with you.”

“Take care of yourself, Mr. Zhongli.” 

“I will. Thank you once more.” 

Morax left the bank with heart pounding like a wardrum. Why was he so nervous? Was it because he didn’t learn anything which would help him to cure Childe? Or was it the fact that another Harbinger was in town, probably scheming and planning his murder? 

Simply walking further away from the Northland Bank, he found a peaceful place where he opened the brown pouch, taking out the neatly folded piece of paper. Slowly unfolding the note to read what was written by rather shaky handwriting of someone who just learned liyuen script. 

I don’t know much, but they are looking for Master Tartaglia. He is rumored to be on the run, targeted as a traitor if he won’t turn himself in as soon as possible. I’ve been ordered to report anything stranger and I’m currently being watched just in case Master would seek me for help. Please, I know you know where he is and I’m asking you to keep him safe and as far away from the town as possible. 

The Second is after anything that could lead him to his subject. That means even you. Rex Lapis.

Morax crushed the latter in his hand. Of course it’s the madman’s doing. Celestia, he should return to his teapot immediately to avoid anything bad. He could be the former archon, but he did not wish for a fight to break out in the streets of Liyue Harbor. 

The new intel made him feel anxious. What should he do next? Nursing Childe back to health was his priority but this outcome and sudden attack of Tsaritsa, was something he shouldn’t ignore. There will be consequences for her actions and for his too. 

Chapter Text

Two days after Morax’s encounter in Northland Bank, Childe was still unconscious with no signs of waking up. The Lord of Geo kept him company, carefully watching his every breath, every small movement of his corrupted body just in case the Harbinger would stir. 

Xiao was still present in Morax’s teapot, keeping eye on his lord and guarding the premise with senses stretched further from this realm to be able to hear Traveler when he was ready to return. He was taking his time with this assignment, but it wasn’t surprising since finding any person attached to the Abyss was a task hard enough. 

However, Xiao’s name was called. 

Wind carried his name which was spoken with delicacy and tenderness he knew only from Aether. It was coming from far away - much further he was originally assuming. With no hesitation, Xiao came to see his lord and inform him of the news. 

Morax’s face brightened up a little bit, when Xiao entered the darkened room with good news to bring. Simply nodding, the ex-archon let Xiao pick up their guests. The Yaksha bowed and disappeared in a swirl of anemo taint by his karmic debt. 

In the meantime, Morax stroked his friend’s sunken cheek. Caressing the soft skin which was covered by thin lines of purple cracks, he gently smiled. Soon, his Childe will be back. He was sure. This Harbinger was too stubborn to simply die like this. 

Also, Morax needed him to wake up and share what truly happened with him, so they could act together against Fatui. The ex-archon had some idea about the story behind all of this, but explanation would definitely help. He felt betrayed by Tsaritsa, who found a loophole in their contract. It wasn’t breaking - but squeezing through the rules. 

Honestly, Tsaritsa disappointed him. Morax truly believed she was a goddess of her word, but taking his Gnosis and then turning her back against him in an excuse of the terms of their contract, was new low. Even lower considering the treatment Fatui showed Childe. When he learns the truth, he will make sure to punish whoever did this to his dear friend. 

A name of two was sitting on his tongue. 

The Second. Codename the Doctor or rather Ill Dottore. 

He heard about him, knew his interests and mad experiments containing multiple fields from alchemy to medicine and elemental energy. Morax had goosebumps just from thinking about this madman and the horrors he brought anywhere he went. 

Jumping to conclusions was bad without proper research, but Morax did not need anyone to explain anything to him and he was sure that Ill Dottore has something to do with Childe’s current state and the abuse of his Foul Legacy transformation. The ex-archon felt anger burning inside of him. If Childe confirms this speculation, he would definitely do anything to hunt down that madman and bring him to justice.

It took less than a few minutes and a small group of their guests appeared in the center of the room. They materialized from thin air in what looked like anemo whisps swirling around a figure standing in the middle. Xiao was frowning more than usual which made Morax a little bit hesitant when it came to the faces he observed next. 

Aether and Paimon were familiar to him, so it wasn’t the source of yaksha’s distress, but when Morax focused on the last person standing next to the traveler, his body froze. A blond male, almost as tall as himself was staring with caution right at him. Half of the stranger’s face was covered by something similar to the armor on Childe’s skin with the same thick veins traveling down under the collar of what appeared to be some sort of foreign gown. 

“It’s nice to see you again, Aether.” 

Morax tried to sound as welcoming as it was possible for him in the presence of a person who was obviously from Khaenri’ah and related to the Abyss. He knew that face and star-shaped pupils reminding him of the tragedy that happened more than five centuries ago. 

“Zhongli! Paimon is happy to see you!” 

That was Paimon shouting and circling around him. Morax just smiled to please the little creature who was sometimes too hyperactive to be around. 

“Hello, Paimon. I’m sure you must be hungry after the long trip. Why don’t you stay in the kitchen with my teapot spirit? They would be happy to have someone to cook for.”

“Paimon wants to stay with Aether here.”

That was a surprising response for which Morax wasn’t quite ready. So, he just nodded and changed the topic of their conversation back to the main subject. 

“Who is that charming man by your side, traveler? I believe we haven’t met yet.”

Before Aether could mouth a word, his friend was quicker, responding with a sharp voice: “My name is Dainsleif and I’m here to aid you, Morax.”

His words felt heavy. Morax saw Xiao call for his weapon, preparing to defend his lord. 

“I’m delighted to meet you, Dainsleif.” 

“The pleasure is all mine, Morax.” 

The silence fell upon the room which was suddenly smaller and much more tense then a moment before. The ex-archon kept his eyes on the stranger, measuring him and thinking about the easiest way to dispose of him in case he would need to. 

“Gentlemen, I know you have your differences, but can you just pretend to not want to kill each other for a moment? I’m sure that after you help Zhongli with Childe, you can return to hating gods and you, Zhongli, you can try to forget Dain is from a nation you destroyed with your fellow Archons.” 

Both men shifted their gaze upon Aether who was giving them serious expression with his hands folded on his chest. Golden eyes shimmering with something even Morax wasn’t able to recognize made them both give up their differences and cooperate eventually. In the end, Morax really needed Dainsleif’s help and the Bough Keeper actually owed Aether for what he had done in the Chasm. 

“But of course. I’m glad to put our differences aside for a Childe’s sake, but don’t expect me to be warm with your friend. I’m an archon and he is from Khaenri’ah. He is lucky to be a useful resource right now, otherwise he would meet his fate.” 

Morax glared at the men who simply scoffed: “Save your breath, Morax. Trust me, after I repay the traveler for his service, I’m going back to my work – far, far away from you or any other god.”

“Hold your tongue, pest. You are speaking with my lord, and you will do it with respect” 

Xiao growled and his eyes glowed threatening Dainsleif and anyone else who would dare to oppose his lord. 

“Geez, can you three just relax? Paimon knows you have some history, but come on. Shouldn’t, at least you two, be Adepti – ancient, patient and super cool?” 

“Paimon is right. Quit arguing and start working so you all of us can return to their duties.” 

Aether kept his voice unlikely for him sharp and cold. Morax just sighed, glancing at Xiao in what seemed to be a gesture to scold him for unnecessary defense. 

“I’m sorry if I was being a little bit too harsh to you, Dainsleif. Would you have a look at the matter?” 

Morax tried to sound nice even if he must force these words out of his mouth. He kept repeating himself that all of this was for Childe. He might hate Dainsleif, but he need his help now and Childe too. 

“Yes of course. Let’s look at him.” 

◈ ◈ ◈

Dainsleif took his time in the examination. He was poking at Childe’s unconscious body for what seemed like several minutes, which he spent by touching the corrupted parts or by probing the healthy ones. Morax did not understand his methods but he was keeping an eye on him, guarding the sleeping Harbinger. 

After some more time, Dainsleif finally stepped aside, signing heavily: “There’s definitely some Abyssal corruption in this body.”

Morax shifted his gaze to Dainsleif’s face, which was now reflecting his pensiveness. 

“Did you find something?” 

Said Aether who joined Morax and Dainsleif. 

“I think it's not that severe. His corruption runs deep in his mind - like it was part of him for a long time.”

“Is there anything we can do for him?” 

Morax said, eyes on Childe and his peaceful face. 

It took a few moments for Dainsleif to actually answer: “I’m not sure. Usually, the corruption eats your mind slowly as the body is being devoured piece by piece. But since he has been unconscious as you said before… It can serve as a way for his body to preserve his sanity. Don’t take me for a word though. He can be already gone, taken by the pits of the Abyss.”

Silence fell like a heavy hammer, scotching every sound – even Moraxe’s heartbeat seemed to quiet down, giving Dainsleif’s word a well-deserved impact. 

There was a hope for Childe, yet there was still despair which etched a hole into the ex-archon's heart. Burning his throat, was a million questions daring to spill out, although Morax swallowed all of them. He wasn’t ready to ask for any more information. 

“Bough Keeper…” whispered Xiao with a raspy voice, drawing attention to him. “Do you think it is possible to use my dream walking abilities to pry into his mind while unconscious?”

Dainsleif frowned. 

“I’m not familiar with your adepti powers, but if you have the ability to walk into one's dreams, there is a possibility.” 

“So, if we can reach him in this state… Can we perhaps bring him back?” Aether’s voice was quiet, yet carried a tint of hope which made Morax lit up a little bit. 

“That's a question I cannot answer. I’m sorry, Traveler.”

Aether’s sparkly eyes darkened in that moment bringing a downcast look to his face. This expression did not last for long, though. Paimon was quick to throw her hands over Traveler’s neck, resting her small head against his shoulder in an attempt to sooth his heartache. 

Morax on the hand glanced at Xiao, who was looking his way for time. The Yaksha was waiting for his lord to decide what to do with the Harbinger next. Slim chance of Childe actually coming back was still a chance he should not neglect. So, with a heavy sigh Morax began his speech: 

“Thank you, Dainsleif. If you have any wish, you are free to speak about it. I know, we didn’t make a contract but take it as a way for me to thank you for your time. And you, Traveler…”

The blond male turned his eye’s to meet Morax. 

“I owe you. If there’s anything I can help you with, be sure to ask. I might not have any answers regarding your lost sibling, but I have plenty of resources to offer.”

Traveler just nodded. 

Dainsleif on the other hand, cleared his throat:

“I don’t need your pity, Morax. I came here to clear my debt with Aether.”

“Suit yourself. My offer still remains the same.” 

After this brief discussion between both sides, Traveler and his companions left the Teapot to give Morax and Xiao some space. They weren’t needed anymore so it was quite welcomed to have some time to think about their next steps. 

Exiting the guest room where Childe was kept, Morax entered a lovely garden covered by the most beautiful Glaze Lilies he ever saw. He barely remembered the view since it was a long time ago when he was strolling through this land. The last time he was there… It was with Guizhong just before the war broke out and separated them. 

He crouched down, golden light pouring over him bringing warmness from the artificial sun which was hanging above his head. Removing one of his gloves, Morax extended his bare hand, covered by stone like skin with pulsating geo marking, to reach for one of the light blue flowers. Gently stroking the smooth surface of the delicate petal, he allowed himself to close his eyes and fully enjoy this moment of solstice. 

His mind was taken away by the smell of Glaze Lilies, bringing back the memories of the Goddess of Dust. He smiled. She might be gone, but she was still in his memories. Morax remembered every lesson of diplomacy, of understanding human emotion and their traditions. She gave him more than a few nice memories. She made him a Morax he is today – the wise, yet brutal Archon who is ready to defend his people. 

Losing Guizhong was hard. But losing Childe… He cannot bare the thought of him succumbing to the Abyss. Not yet. He was too young and their time was too short for him to disappear from his life.  

So, Morax was ready to do whatever he needed to save his friend. 

He rose from the flower field. Opening his eyes to see Xiao sitting on the nearby tree, watching over his lord silently, Morax put on his leather glove. 

“Let’s go, Xiao. It’s time to face the truth.”

Chapter Text

The neverending nightmare just kept going on and on, until Childe wasn’t able to tell when one dream ended and another began. He was falling to the Abyss – running for his life, but his attempt led to the same conclusion – his death. Crushed by the fall itself, or devoured alive by one of the terrifying monsters – it didn't matter how he died – it was always painful. 

He was okay with physical pain. Being torn apart limb by limb? Gutted alive with his intestines hanging from the gash on his underbelly? Or crushed by the massive jaws of lizard-like creatures with teeth as long as his own forearms? All of that hurt for a moment, but the agony was just temporary. Once his neck snapped, once his heart stopped beating, it was done and he could bath in a short moment of lightness. 

It was his mental health which was suffering. 

Truth to be said, Childe never fully recovered from his near death experience and traumatizing stay in the place colder than Snezhnaya’s winters. Since that fateful trip to the Abyss, he was different. From a shy boy who was polite, yet energetic, he became a center of attention, always wrecking havoc. He couldn’t help it. His violent personality was slowly taking over his once gentle nature, making him pick up a fight every time he had the opportunity. 

Childe always won. 

He was too skilled to meet a match against young adults from his village. His parents weren’t delighted by this change in his behavior, although they believed this was normal for the boy his age. Running wild and free, causing a bit of trouble… That was okay, until he stepped over a drawn line. 

When he almost choked one of the village boys, his father went nuts. 

“Can’t you behave for at least one day, Ajax? Do you even realize who you almost killed?”

“But father! I was protecting the young girl this boy was picking up on!”

Their exchange continued as his father dragged Childe home by his elbow, picking up a fast pace. The snow under their shoes was cracking, as they made progress towards the furthest house of the village. 

Everyone passing by was looking their way, since both of them were shouting not caring about the reprehensible gazes. It was a waste of time to try and hide what really happened, thanks to Childe, who picked up his fight in the village common where all the eyes laid on him and his opponent. Causing a commotion wasn’t as unusual, but fist fighting in the center of the village was something else. 

“I already told you to not mess up with business that has nothing to do with you, Ajax.”

“I…”

“You know who this guy is? Did I not warn you?” His father was raging, dragging young Ajax who almost swayed with each other step. His own patience was running out, anger boiling underneath frost-kissed skin. 

Eventually, Childe broke free, putting a small distance between himself and father, who stopped and turned back to face his son. The man was ready to grab Childe one more time, but the teenager was prepared this time. 

He dodged the approaching hand by quickly pulling back. 

His father sighed: “That boy is a son of the mayor. Messing with him can cause us a lot. So, if you will be that willing, let him do his business and stay away.”

“And what if he hurts Tonia? Or Anthon? Or what if he does something to mother? Would you let him? Would you cower, father?”

“Ajax…”

“Don’t ‘Ajax’ me! I’m almost adult. I can take care of myself and it’s only fair if I help others too.” 

Dull blue eyes met his father’s almost green. He was ready to stand his ground even if it meant to beat the crap out of his stubborn parent. How could Childe let that boy bully others when he had the power to stop him? Why should he step away from a fight he was sure to win? 

“If you wish to hurt your family, go on. Ruin us. But I’m warning you, kid.”

“The only one who is hurting our family is you!”

“That’s enough, Ajax. If you keep throwing scenes, I will make sure to put an end to it.”

Childe growled: “I’m not afraid of your empty threats.” 

Heavy silence stretched between them two. It was like the world was underwater. Everything ceased for a moment, which Childe spent by gazing at his father who looked still pissed enough to hit him if he said another word. He would gladly exchange a few blows, but it seemed that his father eventually cooled down. 

Another moment passed without even a single sound. 

As the wind picked up snowflakes which began to fall, his father left him standing alone without turning back even once. 

It was that next morning when Childe was taken away by Fatui. His own father brought them and let them take his son away for a military training that should be enough to break his spirit and knock some sense into his thick skull. What his father did not know was how strong Childe actually was. 

The teenager was able to put up a solid fight, beating down the soldiers who came for him. He didn’t need a weapon to protect himself from their attempts to pick him up, to tie his hands or legs together. Childe simply dodged, kicked and fought like he did back in the Abyss. Using all the knowledge he gained from his master, the young boy knocked down all the Fatui agents in a few minutes. 

Adrenaline rushed through his veins when he flashed the brightest smile despite his eyes remaining dull without even a small hint of emotion. The thrill from this fight was fuzzing through him, clouding his brain. He would gladly beat another dozen of soldiers without breaking a sweat. He ached for another fight. 

“Quite impressive, but not impressive enough.”

These were the words which marked his future as a Fatui agent. When Rooster saw through his own eyes what Childe is capable of without any proper training, he immediately took him under his wing, raising a bloodthirsty hound for her Majesty the Tsaritsa. 

It was at that moment, Childe felt someone pulling him out of his delirium, stabilizing the chaotic dream into what looked like a peak of Mount Tiangong. It wasn’t a sole mountain, but rather a lowly setting with benches under the liyuen style pavilion. Its typical red roof and lanterns which were lit up despite being a sunny day, reminded Childe of his stay in this country. 

Observing his surroundings which were giving him peaceful vibes, wavering him into calmness, he slowly made his way towards the row of seats. Gentle breeze brought the smell of sea water from nearby beaches, he was able to see from this place. 

He didn’t understand what caused a change to the endless cycle of  suffering – being this was just the beginning of a brand new nightmare. Something was different in this case. His head felt clear and he actually had control over his body – he wasn’t dragged by unknown force. 

So, he sat down enjoying the view when he sensed the presence of someone else. 

“Childe?” 

That voice. Was that… 

He followed the sounds of heavy footsteps to gaze upon a Zhongli. Or he thought it was Zhongli. His features were similar enough but the white robe and brown arms definitely did not belong to the Consultant. 

The Harbinger jumped out of his seat, drawing his hydro-blades which surprisingly obeyed his call. 

“I don’t know who you are, but I’m not going to let you fool me.”

His own voice was raw with emotions, cutting through the silence. 

“Calm down, dear Childe. I’m not here to do any harm.”

“Stay back!” 

Childe’s eyes were wide with fear, his hands trembling under the pressure he was applying on the grip of his blades. He knew this was another hallucination – another twisted dream which was trying to make him go mad. Should he succumb? Should he give in and let the Abyss devour him? It seemed so easy. 

Zhongli put his hands up in a peaceful gesture, showing that he wasn’t holding a weapon or anything else to harm Childe. 

“Please, I seeked you to talk. Childe…”

“Don’t get near me! You are not the real Zhongli! I know you are just one of the illusions.” 

The ginger took a few steps back, still holding his weapons to defend himself from what was yet to come. His heart was pounding in his chest, making him breathe heavily. What to do in this situation? How should… His mind was going in spirals. 

“I’m not one of your hallucinations, Childe.” Zhongli spoke with gentleness, his lips curled in a soft smile as he continued: “The Conqueror of Demons – my Guardian Yaksha – help me to reach you here. Your physical body is severely injured and this is the only way to reach your consciousness.” 

“My body… This is not my real body?” 

The boy whispered to himself, looking utterly confused of Zhongli’s words. 

“Yes. Childe, you are trapped here. I can take you back. I can help you wake up, but I need you to remember first. Do you know what happened? Do you know why you are here?” 

“I–I’m not sure…”

Zhongli made a few steps to stop Childe from doing anything stupid, but it seemed like the boy wasn’t so eager to trust him. 

“Don’t touch me. You are not Zhongli. You look like…” 

And then it hit him. All the events from Liyue, his plan with Osial, the journey back to Tsaritsa and mostly the truth about Zhongli being Morax. In comparison to that even the fact Dottore used him with Tsaritsa’s approval seemed to be nothing but a mere reality. 

Everything was coming to him in the form of a tidal wave, flooding him with his unsolved feeling of betrayal and anger. He was wronged not once but twice in one week. The archons played him. A pawn. Nothing more. 

The anger in him rose. 

“You…” 

His eyes darkened, focusing on Morax who was gazing upon him, trying to make amends. But Childe had enough of this foolish game. He was going to kill him. And after he finishes with him, he could return back to Snezhnaya and pay up his debt with Dottore and Tsaritsa. Once this matter is settled, he could take his family away. Only if they are still alive. Who knew what happened to them after Tsaritsa used him… 

“Listed Childe. You need to calm down. I will explain everything. I know how to help you and how to get you home…” 

Morax kept on trying to convince Childe, although the Harbinger was too stubborn to actually listen. The only thing mattered was to kill. 

To soothe the pain in his chest, which kept on growing until it was too much for him to bear. 

“I’m going to ruin you, Morax.”

With these words, Childe launched forward.

Chapter Text

“Childe wait!” 

Morax yelled but his voice was too slow to reach Childe, before he launched into the air, aiming for Morax’s throat. The ex-archon did not want to fight Childe, but he also did not wish for death. So, he erected a barrier around himself to stop the Harbinger from hurting him or himself with his savage attack. 

“Fight me, you fool!” 

Ginger’s raw voice was filled with anger and despair. His eyes shining with hydro energy, showing that he was not about to give up this fight. He might be still confused, not sure about what truly happened before his body was abused and he was forced to relive his worst memories, although he knew that he felt endless rage boiling underneath his skin. 

“I won’t fight you. I came to help you.”

Childe growled: “You are a coward! Hiding from me, behind a barrier? I thought more of you, Morax.”

The ex-archon sighed. 

“Indeed. I’m a coward. I’m afraid of fighting with you, because I worry for you. I care, Childe. I want you to come back, to be alright. Please, stop this nonsense and talk to me.”

Silence fell like a hammer. Both men were looking at each other without any movement or sound - just standing still and gazing with unspoken words. Childe felt his chest tighten. Was this actually Zhongli? Was he really able to come here as a Morax to help him? 

Slowly, the memories of his recent stay in Liyue came to him. 

Just by thinking of his inability to control his body, made him sick. The lack of power he possessed… He was made to watch from the first row, how the Foul Legacy devoured him and kept on spreading pain. 

This feeling of being unable to command his body, to decide where to go or what to say, was lurking around, reminding him of what horrors he endured. The touch of gloved hands, the madness and agony which was now returning to him in forms of bright flashes… 

His knees gave up. 

Childe was trembling, hot tears rolling down his face and falling to his chest where a wet spot formed. He remembered now. The battle. Zhongli’s beat up face and body… He did it. He was the one who hurt Zhongli. 

Panic rose in his chest. 

A monster. He was a monster. He turned into his worst nightmare. 

“Childe, are you alright?”

Morax seemed worried. He lowered his shield and crouched down to face the young Harbinger. 

“Childe… Please, talk to me.”

The ginger boy looked up, his teary eyes shimmering in the warm sun. 

“Don’t cry, dear Childe? It’s alright. I’m here with you.”

“Zhongli?” 

Childe’s voice broke into a sob. The ex-archon moved closer to him, just to be pulled into a tight embrace, the ginger’s arms squishing his body and burying his face into Zhongli’s chest. The Harbinger was shivering, whimpering like a little boy which he actually was. Childe was so young compared to him -  too young to face all the horrible stuff he had to witness and endure. 

The puddle of water around them, which was the only thing remaining from the hydro blades Childe let splash after the realization hit him, was soaking Morax’s clothes, although he could care less for such matter. 

“It’s alright…” 

Morax kept on whispering soothing words with his silky smooth voice. His hands were holding Childe - one of them caressing the auburn hair while the second was gently placed around his waist. 

“The things I did… Zhongli…” 

Young Harbinger spoke with pain tainting his speech which slurred into nonsense mumbling. 

“I don’t blame you for anything, Childe.” 

Morax put some distance between them to see into Childe’s face which was totally wet from crying. With a free hand, the ex-archon carefully took him by the chin, lowering his gaze so their eyes met. 

“The only thing that matters to me, is that you are alright. Forget the past. Live now.”

“Zhongli… The things I’ve done to you… I’ve hurt you and you took care of me. You came here to help me, but I don’t deserve that. Why don’t you leave me to succumb to this madness? Why?” 

Childe was desperate, sobbing and crying his heart out. He did not care that Zhongli saw him in this state. No anymore. As soon as he leaves, he could finally decease and disappear. No more hurting anyone. No more pain. No more burdens. 

“I’m not leaving you, Childe.”

“You must! Just go and forget me. Let me die. Why can’t you just turn your back to me?” 

“Because I can’t!”

The Lord of Geo shouted and the boulders trembled. His eyes were glowing with rage. He needed to calm down. 

“Why?!” 

Harbinger yelled back with his broken voice. 

“Because I love you!”

Stunned by Morax’s confession, Childe gasped for air with his eyes growing wide, glimmering with thousands of questions he wasn’t able to piece together. His tears stopped pouring as well as the sobs which were gone for good. Yet, the ginger felt his throat tighten under words, he wished to speak. 

“Zhongli…” 

He opened his mouth to say something probably extremely silly and stupid, but before he could make any proper sound other than the consultant’s name, his speech was muzzled by hot lips pressing onto his. Surprised by this action, Childe stiffened. I did not take him long to fall for the gentle kiss which was deepened by him. 

Childe was lost in Zhongli, who was holding him with his strong arms, giving him the needed warmth and love which was the Harbinger searching for. He wasn’t certainly sure where his own body ended and the Zhongli started but that wasn’t anything to concern himself with. 

Once they parted, both gasping for air, Childe looked up to see Zhongli giving him a soft smile. His own mouth turned upwards, which made the other man smile even more. 

“I’m sorry… I’m not sure if I did the right thing… I didn’t mean to abuse you in any way.” 

Morax’s expression shifted into something Childe had never seen before – he looked sad and maybe a little bit disappointed by himself. 

“It’s alright, xiansheng. I like that.” 

Childe’s words came out as unsure. He felt strange. Did he loved Zhongli? Sure, he liked his company – the night strolls through the silent city, their meals together… He had some feelings for him, but never thought about them in this way. Now… After the kiss… 

Zhongli took his face. 

“That’s good because I’m intending it to be the last kiss we shared. Now, dear Childe, if you allow me… Would you like to return to your body?” 

“I would.” 

It was a simple answer. He wanted to live and to maybe explore his feelings for Zhongli some more. 

The ex-archon frowned, his features still divine as if carved from the marble. 

“I must warn you. Your body was severely hurt, tainted by Abyss. You might experience pain and maybe you won’t be able to completely wake. The damage that was done was too great to be healed in just a few days.” 

“Are you telling me, I was there for days? I thought it might have been a few hours…” 

Childe’s face was suddenly pale. Everything he forgot for a few moments was returning back to him, reminding him of the horrible things he did. 

“Don’t worry. Let everything go and focus on your recovery. Everything will be fine once you are all healed up.” 

Morax was still caressing his face, smiling gently. Childe wasn’t sure if it would be that simple, but with Zhongli on his side, it might be easier. He might help him carry his burden. His eyes were wet again. So, he buried his face to Zhongli’s neck once more to let the emotions flow. 

“I’m not sure if I can take it. I feel like everything is collapsing. It hurts. It hurts so much… What about my family? What about Dottore and other Harbingers? What will happen next…”

“Relax, Childe. Let me handle these things for you. You need to regain your strength. You need to rest.” 

The young Harbinger breathed deeply. 

“You are right. I need to rest… I trust you, Zhongli. You came for me after I almost killed you… I don’t have anyone else to take care of me now. I feel so stupid. I was mad at you for deceiving me, but in the end it was Tsaritsa, not you, who hurt me.”

Morax stroked his hair, calming him down with his deep voice. 

“I’m sorry for what I did and I’m sorry what your archon did to you. It was never my intention to hurt you in any way. So, I’m happy to know your trust is still with me and I will honor it this time, dear Childe.”

They stared at each other for second before Childe broke the silence: “Thank you, Mr. Zhongli.”

“Just Zhongli is fine.” 

The ex-archon rose, extending hand in a quiet offer.

“Shall we?” 

Childe hesitantly smiled. Accepting the help, he got up to his feet, ready to face whatever was laying in his path. With Zhongli by his side, he might be able to recover, to erase all the suffering his archon did to him and maybe reach his family, who was hopefully safe and sound. Pulcinella gave him his word to protect them, but assuming what Dottore did… 

“Ajax.” 

Morax looked confused: “Pardon me?”

“My real name is Ajax. I’ll be happy if you can use it from now on. Tartaglia is a role given by Tsaritsa and Childe… That was a codename for my diplomatic missions. Ajax is my given name – the one my family and friends use.” 

He felt weird telling Zhongli about all of this, but he knew he did not want to be associated with Fatui or Tsaritsa. It might make him vulnerable to expose this truth, although it was the smallest piece of his identity to share. He doubted Zhongli would abuse it – he promised him to honor his trust this time. 

Ajax glued his eyes to Zhongli, who simply tilted his head processing the obtained information and then smiling with the sweetest smile: “It’s a lovely name. Okay, dear Ajax. I’ll be sure to use it from now on.” 

“Thank you.” 

Another moment passed, before Zhongli spoke once again: “Are you ready to return back?” 

The young man simply nodded. 

“Alright then. Brace yourself,” the ex-archon warned him, just to continue with his speech: “It’s time Xiao.”

Chapter Text

Ajax imagined returning to his body to be painful, but not this painful . In his mind, he pictured himself sliding back to his motionless vessel, accompanied by some sort of light or halo - simply he thought about this process completely differently, almost like divine occurrence. Truth to be said, he wasn’t even close to reality in his conception. 

To describe the whole process… 

His eyes shot open, with a scream of agony escaping from his throat. No holy light, no out of body experience - just the worst hangover in his life. Ajax would swear his loyalty to anyone just to end the horrible headache which should be probably his last concern right now. 

In meantime, while Ajax was recovering from his awakening, still partly unconscious, Xiao joined Morax, who was towering over the laying boy. The yaksha observed his master's face which was all tense with a worried look. 

“Lord Morax, is everything alright? Did you manage to soothe his soul?” 

The ex-archon turned his gaze in Xiao’s direction. 

“Yes, I did. He is attempting to wake up now, but I’m afraid it might do him more harm than help.” 

Xiao just nodded, lowering his eyes to see the Harbinger fighting with his own body, trying to regain control and be fully awake. 

“Should I intervere if needed?” 

“Give him some time.” 

Again, the yaksha agreed, returning back to his hiding spot in the opposite corner of the room. He wanted to give Morax and the Harbinger some space, so pretending like he was not present was his best option. He could also teleport away, but his gut was telling him to stay and be ready to help in any situation. 

Morax hummed, one hand holding his chin in pensive expression. He was watching Childe groaning, spasming and screaming as the young boy kept on fighting for his body. The ex-archon was eager to help him, barely holding himself from jumping on Ajax and shaking him. If he could, he would do anything to lessen the pain, to help poor Ajax, although he was powerless, destined to watch his suffering. 

He reached to hold Ajax’s trembling hand, the one which was not covered by the abyssal armor. 

I’m here, Ajax.

The boy groaned. His hazy eyes shifted to meet the ex-archon, who leaned closer, gently caressing Ajax’s face whispering words of comfort. The young boy leaned to his touch. He wasn’t able to completely recognize his surroundings or to move his limbs without pain sparkling through his nerves, although he was beginning to feel like himself again. 

Focusing on his breathing and heartbeat, he anchored himself in presence. The warm hand, tracing his jawline, and the smell of glaze lilies, calmed his senses, bringing a serenity into his mind, which was torn by the pain, shooting through him like an electric current. 

“Zhongli,” he mouthed. His voice was too raw to actually say longer sentences, so he stuck to whispering the ex-archons name.

“Shh. Take it easy, Ajax,” Zhongli gently smoothed a few strands of hair from Ajax’s forehead, while comforting him with his deep voice. He was careful to not touch any other part of the boy's body to avoid triggering any of his injuries. 

Ajax felt his soul settling in his body. It was like the last puzzle was placed in its destined place, making him complete. The agony was another story. Waves of scorching pain were coming from every nerve in his upper body, meanwhile his legs remained in peace. He was too occupied to pay them any attention, but something was bugging him about the strange tingling he would swear to have been feeling. 

Moving his fingers, he slowly regained control and certainty to attempt to reposition himself a bit, so less pressure was applied to some parts of his body. 

“Ahh-hah,” he let a sound escape his mouth. 

Zhongli was at his feet, helping him to lay down properly. 

“Xiao, get Doctor Baizhu and Madam Ping,” the ex-archon said without paying a single gaze to the yaksha who nodded without any spoked word and teleported to do his job. 

“Don’t move. I will get you something to drink and something to soothe the pain.” With that the Lord of Geo turned away to leave the room and collect all the supplies he needed for Ajax. 

The room seemed much more empty without his presence, so Ajax used this opportunity to look around. Examining the wooded furniture and liyued decorations, which were probably older than he, Ajax felt restless. He was in pain, but it wasn’t something he had never experienced. So, biting on his lip, he tried to move a little bit more, ignoring all the agony which was burning him. 

Once he managed to throw away the blanket, which was keeping him from seeing his own body, he felt his heart skip a few beats. Seeing the damage with his own eyes, he suddenly had bile in his throat, which was now threatening to travel even further into his mouth. 

Observing the dark armor embedded in his own skin, he traced its shape, touching the black veins surrounding it. Letting his eyes wander off even further down, he saw his pale legs lying motionlessly. His first instinct was to move them and see if he was able to use them to travel across the room to find a bathroom, however his body did not respond the way he was expecting. 

Panicked, Ajax tweaked the skin on his thighs. 

He didn't feel a thing. 

Dread pooled over him. 

Using his other hand, the one which was clawed with abyssal armor, he was nipping the skin on his legs, until blood was drawn. Feeling absolute terror striking into his heart, he did the only other thing his mind was able to come up with. Ajax being Ajax, moved his completely abused body, dragging his useless legs over the edge of the low bed, to attempt walking. 

Pushing off with his hands, he was able to shift his weight on his feet, although what he wasn’t able to do was balance and distribute the weight equally. For a few seconds, Ajax was standing, tilting from side to side like a drunk man, before his muscles eventually gave up. 

Without any will to support himself or to tell his legs what to do, he fell down face first. Thankfully, he wasn’t as stupid as it may seem, so he fell on his hands, albeit it still hurt like hell. Loud sound accompanied by many curses in snezhnayan, drew the attention of Zhongli, who quickly ran back, to discover Ajax laying on his floor. 

“What are you doing?” 

The young boy did not bother to respond.

As soon as Zhongli laid his eyes on Ajax, the poor ex-archon rushed to his aid, lifting Ajax up bridal-style and carrying him back to his bed. 

Once the boy was placed, his back supported by a pile of pillows, Zhongli sat at the edge of the bed, scowling with lips pressed tight. He exhaled: “Did I not tell you to stay at your place?” 

Ajax only bit his lip, dodging Zhongli’s gaze in the act of pretending to be innocent. 

The god rubbed the bridge of his nose. 

“Ajax, I am not sure if you are intentionally trying to make me go mad or if you are attempting to harm yourself even further.”

Stiff silence followed. 

“Alright, the tea should be ready. I’ll be back in a minute.”

With that Zhongli took his leave, giving Ajax another opportunity to explore his useless legs. He was glad the ex-archon did not pry into this matter, since the young boy was not in the mood for this.  It was because he was too occupied with facing reality. What if he really won’t be able to walk ever again? What if this was permanent? 

Breathe in, breathe out.

His head was spinning. Ajax needed to calm down, needed to stop his heart racing. His breath hitched. 

Doctor Baizhu was on his way, as well as Madame Ping. Surely, they must have some way to help him. And Zhongli was Archon - Morax himself - there was hope for him. He believes that. He believed in the best outcome which was a little bit hard in his situation. 

A few more minutes in silence, until Zhongli came back with a porcelain tray filled with multiple utensils and a large teapot sitting right in the center. Even from his place, Ajax smelled the strong scent of herbs. 

“I made you some tea to relieve the pain and clear your mind,” Zhongli spoke as he set the tray down on the nightstand. “I put in some sugar to lessen the bitterness of the herbs.” 

Ajax eyed the ex-archons movement, his hands delicately picking up the teapot and slowly pouring steaming leachate into a golden cup. Handing the drink to the young boy, Zhongli leaned forward offering support to his guest, who was still trembling, having not enough dexterity to hold the cup steady by himself. 

He drank the hot tea, not minding the bitter taste and strange aftertaste which was holding to his mouth, gulping down the whole contents. Ajax didn’t even realize how thirsty he was, until he had another cup on his lips, accepting all the liquid with open arms. 

After a few more moments, Ajax spent by drinking, he was finally able to properly speak: “Thank you. I really needed that.”

“How do you feel? Are you in pain?” Zhongli took his hand which was hidden underneath the black armor. 

“It’s bearable. I’ve been worse,” Ajax chuckled, trying to enlighten the mood by smiling. 

However, his technique did not work with Zhongli. The Prime Adeptus kept his expression serious. 

“What about your legs? What happened before?” 

“I…” Ajax opened his mouth to speak, but was interrupted by a swirl of dark anemo forming at the room’s entrance. 

Thanks, Celestia. He was spared explaining and further thinking about his numb legs. Was it a good thing? He wasn’t certainly sure, since the three figures accompanying the small adeptus, were here to pry into his health even more than Zhongli. 

There was a moment of silence in which Ajax sank down in his bed. He felt overwhelmed by the sudden amount of people in the room. It wasn’t usual for him to be this way, cowering in his bed in front of others, but he couldn’t help it. Realization of his situation hit him with full force. He saw his body, but didn’t see his face. Was he a monster now? What did he look like? 

“Doctor Baizhu, Miss Qiqi, Madame Ping, thank you all for coming in such a short time. Xiao, would you be so kind and tell the Realm Spirit to make some tea for our guests?” Zhongli spoke, already halfway to meet the mentioned guests. 

“Ahh, Mister Zhongli, I’m happy to help you and your friend. Come now, let me see him,” Baizhu cheered, bowing his head a little. His snake layed around his neck, looking lazily around the room. 

Madame Ping was silent, smiling at Ajax, who was observing the whole meeting with wary eyes. He noticed the old lady staring at him with a warm expression which reminded him of his own babushka . Ajax tilted his head in confusion. 

She took it as a gesture to come closer, taking over Zhongli’s place. 

“I see you are finally awake, young one,” her voice was kind, filled with care which Ajax wasn’t familiar with. He hesitated, not sure how to respond to such a statement. Should he ask her something back or should he stay quiet, waiting for the old lady to continue in her speech? She gave him some strange vibes - not bad ones, rather something similar to sunshine - warm, gentle, yet strong and dangerous if needed. 

In a meantime, Zhongli informed Baizhu of what happened and how he reconnected with Ajax in his subconsciousness. The green haired man looked surprised to hear about it – not sure if it was a good or bad sign since Ajax may need more time to recover while conscious. 

And with that, a series of examinations followed, making Ajax answer multiple questions, undergo strange tools being pressed against his skin or feeling a current of elemental energy run through his body. All three of the healers performed their best, but no matter who ran the test, the conclusion was all the same. 

His current situation was unpredictable. 

Was he sentenced to stay like this, half in his Foul Legacy, tained by Abyss for the whole eternity? 

Maybe. Maybe he would wake up the next morning and be normal. No one was able to diagnose him or to tell him how to get rid of his corruption. Ajax wasn’t really surprised, yet he was still shaken by the realization that this might be permanent. 

What will Teucer think of him, if he remains covered by the dark armor, thick violet veins spreading across his visible skin… And that was just his body. What about his face? He wasn’t allowed to look into the mirror, maybe because Zhongli was worried about his reaction or because everyone forgot. In all cases, he was afraid of what was ahead of him. 

Celestia , this all was just his appearance. What about his vision and delusion, what about the situation in Snezhnaya? What about his family… 

Ajax was breathing rapidly, his eyes glued to the floor as the others spoke about his physical health. He felt like the whole room was spinning. Sudden nausea made him dig his nails into the mattress, biting down on his cheek to ground himself and prevent his mind from running wild on horrendous thoughts. It didn’t work quite well. He was still trembling, his heart hammering against his ribs, threatening to jump out. 

A hand landed on his shoulder. 

“Take it easy, master Tartaglia. You have to calm down or you will faint,” a gentle voice spoke next to his ear. He felt a gentle touch on his forearm, which drew his eyes to meet an amber gaze, pinning him in place with a knot in his throat. 

“Maybe tea would help?” Zhongli suggested, while crouching in front of Ajax, who was unable to make a single sound. Thankfully, the ex-archon took it as a yes, offering him a refiled cup with still warm tea. 

Ajax drank it, his mind settling a bit. He was still shaking, feeling embarrassed since he appeared so fragile in front of all these people. 

“I think it would be for the best, if we leave our patient to rest,” announced Madame Ping softly, drawing everyone's attention to her. Baizhu and Qiqi agreed, telling Zhongli a few more tips in case Ajax would went into a panic attack. 

The ex-archon thanked him, letting the trio move into a different room where Xiao waited with tea and refreshments prepared by the Spirit of the Realm. This change gave Ajax an opportunity to relax and close his eyes for a while. It definitely wasn’t because he was about to cry. Those weren’t tears. He was just tired. 

“We didn’t talk about my legs,” Ajax whispered, eyes still shut. 

“No, we didn’t. I think it was to not overwhelm you with information. I worry it might be another bad news.” 

Ajax signed: “I can take the truth. I’m just tired.” 

The young lad took a few moments to make up his mind before speaking again, this time with a scoff: “Isn’t it weird? I was sleeping for so long, yet I feel exhausted. The irony…” 

“It’s okay if you don’t feel well,” Zhongli said while sitting next to him. “I leave you to rest. Maybe our healers have more to say.” 

“Of course,” Ajax nodded, opening his eyes to see Zhongli who took his hand before leaving. 

“I’ll be back in a minute, if you found yourself needing anything, just call Xiao. He will notify me of your needs.” 

Zhongli smiled before eventually leaving, giving Ajax the needed space to let his emotions go and while broke into tears.