General's Archon

by FeralWorks

Summary:

Liyue... Its beauty was unparalleled, a product of years spent effort. It thrived, it grew, expanding its resources and it had become a renowned city of beauty, prosperity, power, worth and desire. A nation that was essential due to its position and power.

It was beautiful… but still stuck in its age. An age that the Archon had thought it’d passed-.

A soft sound drew his attention. It hadn’t been from the God, but rather, the previously unconscious stranger he’d found…
-----
Or, The one where Morax found an unconscious Jing Yuan on his daily walk and, over time, gets to know him. The two get pretty close and Morax falls for him, and the feelings are mutual.

Chapter 1: Prologue

Notes:

TIMELINE:
Post-Liyue Arc, Post-Xianzhou Arc
- Liyue hadn't been ready to take on Osial, so Zhongli had to step in. In addition, he kept his Gnosis and was reinstated as the Archon and returned to his original garb, the white attire. He also has Horns and his tail.
And yes, Jing Yuan WILL mistake him for a Vidyadhara ;)

PS: This was just something cute and fun that I decided to amuse myself with and I do plan to keep updating it.
The pairing is SUPER hot and deserves recognition. So here we go!

Given time to process confusion, regardless of the circumstance, it tends to take time. The speed of processing… depends on the understanding of the situation. Had one experienced the circumstances before, how wise or aged they were, how calm the person was… 

An example would aid those needing context.

Say you were the Archon, the Geo Archon specifically, and you were walking along the North East point of Liyue Harbor, simply wanting to relax your morning with the Guyun Stone Forest at your horizon. A sight you were always… both sombre yet refreshed to see. A site with far too much history for you yourself to sum up so simply. But on your stroll along that vast stretch between the midway point and edge of the cliff, you see a light clothed figure lying unconscious, unmoving as if they’d simply passed out in the middle of the field.

Your first action would likely be to venture over, to take stock of the person and maybe wake them due to it being so early in the morning. Who in their right mind would go on a stroll and simply pass out in a spot so open to bandits, animals, monsters and local Vishap? With knowledge of Liyue, it was common to see these in this area as much as Guili Plains. 

Though admittedly, Morax had done enough to be sure that the listed types were also known to avoid specific areas after he was reinstated as the Archon…

To what Morax had summarised, he’d done all of the above, only short of waking the stranger. Indeed, he would have, but something very… interesting had caught his attention. The mans appearance, his garb, his refined portrayal of a Warlord resting. He was visibly broad and taller than the Archon, maybe by a few inches. His complexion was light with the morning sun blanketing his features and it made his white hair that much whiter. Such a strong yet delicate face, it made him wonder what colour iris he had to match his already striking features.

To his attire, the Warlordish wardrobe. It consisted of an oriental-styled blouse modified with plating and golden armour in the shape of a Nian beast on his right arm. From what the God could see, two capes seemed to be draped over his shoulders, though was semi trapped beneath him, and at his waist, he was adorned with multiple belts and leather vambraces. His trousers were red shaded with thigh harnesses, the base of trousers being tucked into tall, slim boots.

With this kind of appearance, one would have to be of an ill-mind to assume a common civilian of Liyue would dress this finely and extravagantly. He had to be of Liyue to an extent though, the garb was Liyuian in style, the detail, the expenses that had to have been spent to adorn such material and have that very appearance of a Lord of War. Even Morax’s own high ranked warriors of the past had a similar style, though far less… beautifully crafted and tailored. Though none had that assumedly custom addition of a scroll and tassel attached to the hip of the belts.

The Archon regarded him for some time between finding him and to the present moment of… stalling. From what he’d noted so far, there was no outward damage, no indication of a fight having taken place, no visual sign that he had been harmed to cause his sleeping state. It really appeared that he’d simply dozed off in such a riskful spot.

He hummed softly in question, tilting his head. As was mentioned, he’d been stalling for a time, not wanting to wake him if this was deliberate, and with transparency, Morax simply wanted the morning silence to himself and didn’t want to worry the man if he was suddenly woken by the Geo Archon in person. He’d been well aware from the start that meeting in person with him usually left other shellshocked. Even in present days, he’d heard of the stunned speechlessness that they’d talked to him as Zhongli and had gone as far as to apologise if they happened to be within earshot of him or had a guard pass on the sentiment. Which was usually the case as they were unable to gather the confidence to say it directly and were afraid that the past informalities were something to be punished.

It was… disheartening. ‘Zhongli’, the human variation was meant to be spoken to casually, it had been intentional, to mingle with his nation as one of them. But the moment it had spread that the Wangsheng Funeral Parlour Consultant was the Geo Archon himself, all that had spoken to him as Zhongli had come forward expressing their guilt in some way, via letter, via guard, via stunned stares.

Morax sighed sadly, his gaze falling to the stranger. He hoped he wouldn’t react as others had. The God grew a tad closer and lowered himself to the ground while minding his long, thick tail, sitting at the unconscious mans side with his legs crossed beneath him with his extra appendage curved behind him and a tad closer to the stranger. His arms were limp at his sides, his forearms resting over the curve of his thighs with his hands hanging within his lap.

If the status of Geo Archon didn’t spook him, it might be the horns and tail that gain a reaction first. Though many, if not all, were aware of the additions to his appearance. They shouldn’t be a striking enough visual to cause an issue.

His gaze drifted to the form again, but only briefly before he lifted them to what he could see of the Forest on ocean, a large expanse of pointed mountains. He had let his mind wander, drifting as it did almost every morning, and time passed him by.

His past few months came and left his mind, fragments of memory, interesting additions to his endless scroll of knowledge and trivia to save for no particular reason.

Of late, he’d been regularly visiting Madam Ping, aware that she was neutral to both her own and the humans. She’d blended in far easier than he had, understandably, but even then, she’d entertain him with information, adding to a few things he already knew.

The young Yaksha, as well, had begun to venture into Liyue only to give him a naturally curt yet respectful greeting upon taking up the mantle once more. It appeared that many were glad that he hadn’t actually been assassinated or passed on in general. With the whole ordeal with Osial and Liyue’s inability to fend off the monster, he’d had to have reappeared to deal with it himself for the safety of the nation.

… They hadn’t been ready, the nation had still required their worn Archon.

Another sad sigh slipped his lips, his gaze drifting to the perfect view of his city, the morning sun bearing down on it with its ruthlessly blinding spring glow. Its beauty was unparalleled, a product of years spent effort. It thrived, it grew, expanding its resources and it had become a renowned city of beauty, prosperity, power, worth and desire. A nation that was essential due to its position and power.

It was beautiful… but still stuck in its age. An age that the Archon had thought it’d passed-.

A soft sound drew his attention. It hadn’t been from the God, but rather, the previously unconscious stranger he’d found…

Morax glanced over his shoulder, eyeing the man as he’d slowly lifted a hand from his side and rested his palm to his skull, cradling it with another groan as his fingers threaded the hair that blanketed his face.

Notes:

Feel free to comment a typo correction if you see one, I don't mind at all.
No Beta, we die like Signora~

Chapters will get longer.

Chapter 2

Notes:

Genuinely having too much fun with the ideas for this story!!!

Jing Yuan was never slow to stir when it came time to wake, he’d always been the type to simply blink himself aware and get up from his bed with no hindrance that accompanied others. Refusing to leave a warm bed, the long yawns, the reluctance to get to the work that piled on one's desk. No, the white haired man had always simply gotten up the moment he awoke.

But…

The General strained his breathing, his brow furrowing as his hand held to his head, attempting to stave off the harsh thrumming of an ache that pulsated heavily at the forefront of his skull. An unexpected feeling, it’d been a while since he’d had any physical ache outside of results of a battle or sparring match with one of his own calibre. He neither remembered a battle nor sparring match, and not one that would give him a merciless headache.

Real physical awareness came late to him, the throbbing forcing him to pause his self evaluation here and there to check if everything else of his person was in order. Eventually, it came to the headache being the only issue presented to him. As for the rest… Some small pieces of information that gave him an idea of his position.

Thick grass was pillowed beneath him, brushing along his sides with the somewhat pleasant breeze, carrying the soft chirps of birds nearby and the waves crashing brutally against stone that attempted to stop its course… Though it was below him somewhere, at a distance, but so close to taste it in the air when his mouth opened just slightly.

… Had he found himself in the Scalegorge? Had he travelled to see Dan Feng’s statue once more and the astonishing power of the parted ocean? If so, where had the memory of the journey disappeared to and where had this headache come from. Was it linked? A headache resulting in a memory being removed? This felt like no hangover.

Another soft groan slipped his lips, the simple attempt to think of the ‘whys’ drawing another aching thump from his skull.

“Are you alright?” Jing Yuan froze, body falling still. Along with the deep, smooth voice that resonated through him, the sound of grass and garments shifting followed, being only a few metres closer yet beside him. He’d not noticed the presence, wholeheartedly blaming the pain beating against his skull.

The General took a soft breath and ever so slowly opened his eyes, glad that his hand had unintentionally been shielding him as the brightness of the sky promised to make the thrumming ache worse. Such a cloudless, beautiful sight and it was only dampened due to his-...A slight frown paused him, a thought catching his attention. Were there no ship structure beams within their sky? The outer support of their travelling home.

A soft, deep hum from beside him returned his focus, his golden gaze angling towards the origin. To say that he was sufficiently stunned would be a grand understatement.

Alongside the beauty of his surroundings, there sat a magnificently striking Vidyadhara, one of which he’d never seen, not before Dan Feng nor after young Bailu. Considering the age of his physical appearance, the creature seemed a tad older than even prior High Elder.

… Such a striking appearance. The dark shade of brunette, the amber gold tips and even golder glow to the very base of his tied hair that hung neatly over his shoulder. The keen, strong golden gaze… he could faintly see a diamond nestled in the centre where pupils should have been. His skin, quite a few shades darker than his own, on the cusp of Golden brown… Caramel? Attire… He donned a white, sleeveless form fitting robe with a hood that was noticeably resting behind his shoulders, a golden trimming along the curves of the sleeveless shoulders. Long, deep brown, verging on black, trousers travelled the length of his legs, tucked neatly into slim boots.

What… appeared very unnaturally to the species though. The Vidyadhara’s arms. It didn’t appear to be any form of self drawn pattern. Even he could see that it was, indeed, his skin. His hands were almost golden and gradually faded to black along his forearms and were entirely colourless upon reaching his upper arms and shoulders, the black disappearing under the robes at his shoulder. A brightly golden pattern followed the length of his arms, intricate, detailed, perfectly symmetrical and even.

… Lest he not forget the additional features that added to his unique beauty… The tall, sharply curving antler-like horns, following the theme of golden and fading to a brown black shade. His tail, long, fluid, dense and littered with even scales from base to tail tip, the end being tufted with a long curling end of golden orange. Along the spine of the tail, pointed fins of glowing gold, a solid material from what he could see, sitting a few patches apart and shrinking in size the closer to the tail tuft you peered.

He held strength in his appearance, an intimidating contrast in palette between light and dark, whereas Dan Feng held a comforting palette of cool water and crashing tides. Bailu gave him the same impression. So… what of this Vidyadhara? He held no indication of being waterborn. And his ears didn’t appear as Dan Feng’s nor Bailu’s.

“Are you unable to speak?” came that deep, smooth and soothing voice once more, and from the creature itself. Had he been gazing the whole time? The Vidyadhara hadn’t seemed to mind.

“I’m able. My apologies,” he started simply, eyeing him a moment longer and still with that heavy thrum beating the inside of his skull, “I was quite surprised by your presence,” the General added honestly and shifted his arms below him to aid him into a sitting position. All the while feeling the protest from his aching mind, though he did well to ignore it.

With finally being able to glance around and better the knowledge of his location, he paused, his mouth falling open just slightly.

What he saw was not the Xianzhou Luofu.

A large, prosperous city sat firmly on the bank of the ocean, large docks, boast sat atop the water. Buildings upon buildings upon structures were firmly lining the roads and spread far, a massive variety of sizes, shapes and density, people flooding the streets and the large dock, a market sat upon set dock and all appeared hard at work and enjoying the day. Near the vast mountains of this city, far larger, towering buildings, clearly of importance and cherished with the number of guards and the great power that came with its location overseeing such a lively and beautiful city.

The design wasn’t too different from his own though, he had to take note of that. The cultural appearance, there was a slight similarity. Though he could see a couple of odd blue and white objects that floated on the spot. He did not recognize them.

“Not only by my presence, it seems,” again, the same smooth voice had caught him, the General’s gaze breaking from the sight to drift to the observant Vidyadhara. Jing Yuan regarded him for a moment, able to see the slight questioning frown and thoughts raced through the General, drawing more aches to the forefront of his mind.

“I… apologise if my question appears strange to you, but…” he watched the shift in attention, appearing to give him his focus, “Could you give me the name of my whereabouts? I’m quite uncertain,” he had hoped that he wasn’t risking a situation where he could be taken advantage of with his lack of knowledge of the situation, but that very lacking issue was already setting him in a position where he’d need some understanding to plot a path home.

Though considering the expression of mild shock that crossed the creature's features, he had been just as surprised by his words as the General had been in seeing where he’d fallen unconscious.

“Your question is indeed quite strange…” the creature eyed him in question, regarding him as firmly as he’d regarded the Vidyadhara, “A city between Lisha and the Sea of Clouds. You’re within the outskirts of Liyue Harbour,” the gold glowing creature responded smoothly, and though none of what was said spurred any memory of the location, the way he had voiced it gave him the impression that this was a harbour of great importance, one of which would most definitely be widely renowned.

Sadly, he couldn’t fathom the importance with the lack of knowledge he had of the beautiful harbour. And the being in front of him. Speaking of importance…

“Forgive me. I don’t recall the names. And on the matter of names, an introduction?” he offered, seemingly catching the beings attention and removing the confusion from his golden features. The General shifted his position, ignoring the great ache as best as he could as he seated himself on his heels.

“I am the General of the Xianzhou Alliance's Cloud Knights and one of the Charioteers of Xianzhou Luofu,” he announced professionally with a bow in greeting, staying in the position for a moment longer until the pain in his skull began to strain him. He straightened his posture in time to see the Vidyadhara replicate the seated stance, his hands resting on his thighs.

For a moment before speaking, the General saw a flicker of conflict in his gaze, though it was only brief.

“... I am the Geo Archon of the Liyuian nation, Morax,” even to his own ears, it felt as though the Vidyadhara had forced the formal greeting, but the slow greeted bow appeared smooth, genuine. Though his professionally spoken words only doubled his number of questions. Geo Archon? Liyuian nation? Presumably, Liyue was the name of the nation, if he was correct in that the harbour was simply named after the land. And added the word ‘harbour’... as it was a harbour.

And with a title laced with the name of a nation, this creature wasn’t of low rank. The spoken title held importance, regardless of whether the General understood it.

It also begged another question… The General had been internally referring to the creature as a ‘Vidyadhara’, but that was due to his appearance. With a title like that, was he actually the same species as the two he was associated with? As he’d thought, the two were waterborn, they had indications of just that. But this one…

“If possible, Geo Archon Morax, would you be kind enough to humour my curiosity?” he requested with another polite bow, lifting his gaze to see a mirrored expression on the beings own features.

Though as he’d straightened up, it was then that he saw a blue haired woman slowly making her way towards them, seemingly panting. The impression that she wasn’t of any human descent was immediate, given the horns, though he could be wrong.

In terms of appearance, she was quite unique as well. Fair skin, her hair being a pale blue shade that naturally seemed to bunch in the centre and faded into a darker shade towards the ends. The seemingly young woman had black-red horns that bent back along her hair, similar to how a goat's horns appeared, with brighter red markings following their shape. The closer she became, the more purple he could discern in her eyes, a slight gold fade at the base of her irises.

In terms of clothing, he hadn’t seen anything akin to what she wore. Oddly, she had a somewhat flattened bell hung around her neck, tied via a ribbon. The clothing below consisted of a black halterneck leotard and black tights with gold accents on the legs. Atop it, she wore a white and purple bodice, gold trimmed and long ends similar to a tailcoat, with a separated pair of sleeves. It matched a unique pair of grey high heels with black soles. At her hip rested a very beautifully crafted trinket, glowing a bright light blue with a symbol in the centre, a snowflake perhaps.

Having taken a long moment to gather all the detail of her appearance, he hadn’t taken note of how fast she’d closed the distance and was already upon them, holding a stacked clipboard to her chest.

“Lord Morax, apologies for intruding on your conversation,” the young woman bowed, the General catching the slight sway that she’d covered quite swiftly. The tells of ‘overworked’ was clear in her posture and delicate features, “Lady Ningguang requested an audience with you regarding the matter of the expansion,”

Jing Yuan let his gaze drift from her to the ‘Lord’ ahead of him, able to see the unmistakable disdain breach the pools of gold in his eyes. Clearly a matter he’d have rather avoided. It was made all the more clear of his dislike as the creature frowned and lowered his gaze, seemingly in thought before it was made obvious of his departure.

“I’ll see to the matter,” the Lord announced as he stood and brushed himself off, the General following him to his feet and fighting off a harsh pang of pain that shot through his skull. Once again, he raised a hand to his head, cradling his forehead in an attempt to stave off the horrible ache.

He couldn’t seem to fight it for long and he truly wondered where he could have gotten it. He felt no pain from head trauma, no physical damage from any attacks. Could it have been his theory? The pain being from a loss of brief memory?-

Jing Yuan stilled at the feel of warm fingers against his face, lightly brushing his temple, his own hand lowering slightly with his gaze flicking open and pinning the stranger momentarily, though he didn’t seem bothered. If anything, he appeared concerned, a soft pinch between his browline. The General’s hand lowered further, focusing on the warmth of his hand rather than the pained thumping in his head.

“Ganyu, would you please lead the General to Bubu Pharmacy? Any expense will be for me to discuss with Baizhu upon his results,” the creature voiced so smoothly and hadn’t broken his gaze away at all to request this of her.

“Yes, Lord Morax,” the younger one replied. The General held his gaze, transfixed on the diamonds in his stare. Regal. That had been the word he’d been searching for to define this Vidyadhara. Again, he wasn’t quite sure whether he ‘was’ one of those creatures. He hadn’t had the chance to ask.

“I apologise for my abrupt departure. I’ll return to the pharmacy and answer your questions once my meeting has come to a close,” the stranger informed kindly before removing his hand from Jing Yuan’s face. For a moment, he’d been far too surprised by the contact to feel the headache.

“No need to apologise. I understand the urgency,” he replied, having found his voice. He returned a bow that the Lord gave him before he turned away and made a trek directly opposite of them. He was fast, driven by whatever seemed to have irked him to some degree. He wouldn’t pry. This was not his jurisdiction.

“As our Archon requested, I’ll be directing you towards our pharmacy. I’m Ganyu, the General Secretary of Lord Morax,” the young woman, Ganyu, smiled toward him, giving him a warm and kind greeting. To summarise, she worked directly with the man, which aided his understanding as to why she’d made her way this far from the city to inform him of a meeting.

“Thank you for your time, Miss Ganyu,” he lowered his head respectfully, though not as low as before if only to avoid any further pain. The General straightened up, regarding her for a brief moment and lifted his gaze to see where the Archon had gone, but… With the path leading to the city, surely he’d have been walking along the dirt road to the bridge with the speed he’d been walking.

“Would you prefer I stay with you at the pharmacy during your check-up?” her voice spoke up, Jing Yuan swiftly returning his gaze to her as she began walking. Promptly, he’d caught up, following after her along the stretch of green. He was still perplexed as to how the Vidyadhara had simply disappeared.

“No no, it’s quite alright, Miss Ganyu. I’ll be patient for Lord Morax once I’m seen to,” it was a tad awkward hearing himself speak the title and name, but… it wasn’t unwelcomed. The name Morax was strong and simply speaking it with his own voice, it was a pleasantly fluid name.

On the matter of the Archon, he couldn’t very well make it seem as though he wasn’t aware of the Archon, hence why he’d repeated her own title to the man. He was yet to gain any knowledge beside him being in a place of power. Considering the title of Lord, Archon of a nation and that he was called to a meeting where he had an audience, the General's theory had to be correct in that he held quite a high rank within the nation… With Lord and Nation in the same sentence, would he be that high of a rank? The Lord of the Nation?

If so, the General had to be very careful with the important creature. He’d outrank both Jing Yuan and the High Elder.

“Would you rather walk or travel via Waypoint?” the question drew his attention once more, his gaze falling towards the young woman as they strolled along, the other slowing as they reached one of the couple of floating objects he’d taken note of earlier. Waypoint. The word hadn’t given him the impression of a portable device. Was it a directional device that called for a vehicle of sorts?

“Whichever you’d prefer, Miss Ganyu,” though he was quite curious as to how it worked. It would be added to the list of questions he had for the Lord.

Notes:

Btw, I love the thought that Jing Yuan would keep calling him a Vidyadhara despite not being one. Like he just thinks of him as an Earthly based one rather than a water based one like Bailu and Dan Heng.

Chapter 3

Notes:

It's been a while since I really enjoyed writing a fanfic and this has really hit such a sweetspot.
I keep daydreaming scenes that would fit into this and I may have a really fitting end to it later down the line too. A very decent ending ^^

To his luck, he’d found out quite swiftly what a Waypoint trip entailed. To his dismay, his headache threatened to crack his skull and his stomach churned to an ungodly extent.

The General reached a hand to his mouth, his eyes closing with a tight frown, pulling back the strong urge to lose his lunch in favour of not making a scene. It wouldn’t do well to portray such a sight and allow the Lord to hear of it. Nor did he want it added to the list that the pharmacy would likely write his results upon. And if it added to any cost, he had no plans to have the creature pay that much more than he likely already would if he really did have to spend currency regardless of rank.

Not only that, Jing Yuan hazarded an assumption that he did not, in fact, have Liyuian currency on hand if his growing theories were confirmed.

“Oh! I’m sorry! Are you alright, sir?!” the General swiftly straightened up as much as possible as the young woman began her worrying, appearing directly ahead of him with a clear concern, reaching out to him with a saddened and or guilty pinch to her soft features. If anything, Jing Yuan felt guilty for causing her worry, enough to make that expression.

“Yes, yes I’m alright,” he waved her off, not wanting to cause further concern, “I don’t travel through Waypoints very often. They sometimes trigger a case  of motion sickness,” he smiled with his utter lie, playing off rather well as it seemed to ease her for a moment. She seemed to believe it at the very least. Though he felt that same guilt for his excuse.

“Ah! That’s understandable. I’ll be sure to mention it to the pharmacist,” she replied swiftly, taking a step back before motioning ahead to the short stairs only a few feet away. There seemed to be a little ways to walk still, to his curiosity. So the Waypoints didn’t land you ‘directly’ outside of your destination.

“No need. I can inform them. I’d rather avoid keeping you from your schedule any longer, Miss Ganyu,” that, and he feared her assistance with information would cause the bill to increase. The General wanted to avoid any further cost. And despite the woman's gesture, she appeared closer, as if to aid him if he needed a hand in making his way to where he was being led. He couldn’t imagine her propping him up in any way with how small and thin she seemed.

“Are you sure? I don’t mind. Lord Morax made the request of me,” she glanced up at him as they turned the corner to climb the stairs, Jing Yuan smiling softly to her dedication. He hadn’t requested anything further than leading him to the Healers. Anything more than that would have been of her own accord.

“There won’t be much else to do besides showing me the location, and the Lord did say that he would meet me upon the closure of the meeting,” he reminded, his smile still present and barely managing to counter the churning and pounding ache in his skull. He was quite grateful that she seemed to be putting in so much effort.

“... That’s true,” she’d muttered, appearing to think for a moment on their slow walk along quite a beautiful area. There was a curved foot path between two long ponds of shallow water, lily pads and a small variety of fish adorning the calm surface. He eyed the additional odd green plants, a flat top with a seemingly seeded inner circle.

“Alright,” her voice drew his attention as they strolled, “I’ll explain what Lord Morax requested and leave you be until his return,” she smiled up at the far taller man. He returned it wholeheartedly.

The General continued following the young woman towards the end of the path and to his surprise, she stopped at the base of a long staircase to his right, the building above the stairs drawing Jing Yuan’s brows further up his forehead at the beautiful sight. He was very much impressed with the choices of structure and the locations. If this was the pharmacy, it was obviously made to portray its importance.

“Baizhu should still be here,” he heard his company mutter softly as she began to climb the stairs. Jing Yuan was quick to follow, not wanting to waste their time.

—--

“Lord Morax, you know the reasoning. Why decline such a meaningful expansion? So many have agreed that this would be a good chance to broaden the harbour and some are even calling for celebration upon its completion,” the respectable woman sighed heavily, standing on the other side of the Archon’s workspace. The Archon himself could imagine that she was as exasperated with the back and forth, he was sure, but it was that very reasoning she claimed that had made him flat-out refuse the gesture.

“Lady Ningguang-,” he frowned, seeing that she had been about to continue, as she had since his arrival to his own office. The expression and the deep tone, thankfully, had halted her firmness. He was sure that she’d continue the argument and push hard enough in her attempts that he would simply give in, but this… wasn’t what the Archon wanted.

“I’m well aware. An expansion of the city would be accepted swiftly, but not for the reason you’ve explained on numerous occasions,” Morax started calmly, finally having his moment to speak between her persistence. Had it been for a better reason, akin to resource organisation of more liveable spaces or more stores and markets, for more exposure to draw attention and opportunity even…

“I will not accept an expansion of Liyue harbour with this project being the reason for our growth,” Morax declared firmly, far more curt than he had been originally. He wanted no mistakes, no misunderstandings, no room for her to argue with his command. Yes, he was too tired to be the Archon, to be the Nation's God, but being faced with something of this… wastefulness, he couldn’t fathom allowing it.

“My Lord…” she breathed softly, the God feeling the exhaustion and guilt that he’d caused such a saddened tone to leave such a strong woman. He watched as she opened and then promptly closed her mouth. A moment later, she lifted her hands, cradling them at her chest as she gazed at him, unable to hide her gloom and her own exhaustion.

“... The people of Liyue simply want to show their support, to encourage and even apologise for how we must have done you wrong,” and there it was again… Morax sighed, his gaze lowering with his deflation and hidden sombre feelings on the matter. He’d lost count of how many times he’d attempted to explain that they had done nothing wrong, that they weren’t to blame. Why were they so stuck in the mind that they were the reason for his attempted self-removal from their nation's Throne.

“The people of Liyue did no wrong, Lady Ningguang. I adore this nation and those who live and travel through it, I always have and will for the remainder of my days… But to expand solely for the reason of building a monument of statues and a hall for an Archon in my honour isn’t what I can accept,” the man-... man… The Archon straightened up as much as he could, his hands being firmly linked behind his back as he portrayed his strong posture, immovable of his decision.

“I will not accept the expansion while I am your Archon. I’ll not hear anymore of this,” he stayed firm, staring her in the eye and again came that heavy weight of guilt to see her discouraged sadness of his order. He waited, watching, but fortunately, she appeared to lose the fight to continue in her persistence. His gaze followed her as she gave him a low bow and promptly turned to leave without a word, closing the large doors behind her.

A moment longer to be sure that she was out of earshot, the Archon took a few steps to his desk and dropped heavily into the thick cushion seat, elbows harshly thumping against the desk with the additional weight of his head as he cradled his skull. There was so much weight of stress threatening to spill over, his body slowly shaking with the exhaustion tightly ensnaring his bones.

Gradually, he lowered an arm to rest on the strong wood of his desk, his forehead being pressed to it with the other hand slipping between the horns on his head in an attempt to hold himself, to calm himself. He needed his composure, his… his… freedom of this cracking throne.

… The nation's people weren’t at fault, they made his life easier, more calm, the interest he had in them was far greater than they seemed to think. He was adored, respected and looked to as the answer and in turn, they were of that for him. He adored them, respected them and looked to them when he was at a loss… But somewhere along the line, it seemed that they blamed themselves for his want to retire, for his need to drop his crown.

They weren’t to blame. His need to leave his chipped throne… he was too tired, too long lived in being the Archon. Six thousand years sat atop the throne of Geo and that was only three quarters of his Adeptus life. He hadn’t thought to leave out of the selfish desire to leave his pedestal, no, that had only been partly the reason. It was the growth, the progress. Morax was well aware of the broad strides in progress his nation had portrayed. He was sure that they were ready, ready to lead without the hand of the God to guide them…

A soft knock to his office door had him straightening up, straightening his posture to avoid the visitor witnessing his state. “Yes,”

He waited a moment before thankfully seeing his secretary’s head peek into the room. Ganyu slowly entered further, appearing curious as she stood in the gap of the doors.

“Good morning. Your meeting is over? I saw Lady Ningguang leave the building a moment ago. She didn’t seem in high spirits, I was worried. Are you okay?” Morax sighed softly, a brief flicker of that guilt striking his core. He regretted causing upset, not only to Lady Ningguang, but to hear the slight waver of worry in his dear Ram as well…

“I’m fine, Ganyu. Your concern is appreciated,” the Archon replied with his rehearsed lines, wanting to avoid any further questions of his status. He’d already had to fend of his Yaksha’s  concern the last few times he’d dealt with the expansion matter and he was very aware of the Yaksha’s self-given responsibilities regarding his Karma…

Though with the stare he was being given…

“... Lord Morax,” Ganyu curled a brow, the God in question feeling a pang of ‘uh oh’ as she closed the door behind her and gradually strode her way to his desk, her beloved clipboard being set down on her side of his broad office table… And she waited. Morax stiffened slightly in his chair, his gaze meeting her softer ones, a quiet battle being fought… to which he gave up on quite swiftly.

“... I’d feel selfish to claim that I’m tired when it’s evident that you’ve done far more work than I within the last few centuries,” he all but muttered, forcing away any facial twitch of an incoming pout.

“You’re missing the difference in scale of our power, Lord,” she smiled softly, appearing reassuring. He sighed silently, relaxing some in his seat. As much as he wanted to dismiss her concern to avoid saddening her , he knew that doing that would only worsen it and he refused to reply with utter honesty and portray his problems. She was far too young to shoulder half of his pressured weight and he wouldn’t allow it either way. A strong Adeptus she was, a warm welcoming glow of cold winters and warm smiles, a sunshine in his office that made his days easier like the others he held within his nation. Tainting that purity with his stress was something he would regret until the day Erosion caught hold of him.

“And you’re missing a training session with our dear Yaksha,” he countered with a smirk, well aware that she wasn’t, but as expected, she appeared to freeze before swiftly reaching for her clipboard and turning to leave, minus the bow. Amusingly, he appreciated her forgetfulness at times. The informality was welcomed as well.

With her having left the room, the door shutting, he took a moment to even his composure, taking a deep breath before pushing to his feet and rounding his desk. He had plans for the day, hoping that most of his time would be spent in his strangers company rather than having to deal with anyone else. He had his own questions that needed answers, though his priority was the man's health.

Morax made his way out of his office, passing by a few guards lining the hall to the foyer and entrance, not meeting his gaze as he meandered past and then out of the building itself. The air was refreshing, a breeze having caught him upon stepping foot outside the Yuehai Pavilion. It was as bustling as always with the expansions of the Yujing Terrace district for more homes, and stores. There’d been more progress, more growth and structures, more faces, more children even in the streets and houses that had been built along the hillsides of Mt. Tianheng.

It was refreshing, as welcomed as the breeze that followed Morax as he left the stairs of the Pavilion and headed across the terrace to the staircases that led to the middle platforms of the harbour. Though as he reached the area, he saw the warm, old features of his friend standing where she usually did each day. Another welcomed company to ease him. And he for her, if the bright smile upon seeing him was any indication.

“Ah, my Lord Morax. Good morning~,” she greeted with a slight bow. Morax gave her one in return, well aware that many would think it strange. She still hadn’t announced her Adeptus status, though he doubted she would.

“Good morning, Madam Ping,” he smiled warmly, the expression showing evidently, “I trust you’ve had a fine start to your day? How’s the tea?” the Archon questioned, resting a hand on the rock wall railing after stepping closer to the front of her neatly placed table.

—--

The General shifted his position just slightly against the pillar standing firm just outside of the pharmacy, turning a transparent bottle of a healing plant powder in his hand. As far as his knowledge of healers stretched, the green haired man was quite adept with the art, as well as his little, quiet companion that had watched from the front desk as he was seen to and diagnosed with a mild cluster migraine. He’d seen no trace of a concussion or any damage at all that could have caused it and had reverted to a safe option of herbal healing on top of the mild healing that the man had done.

Fortunately, the migraines had eased quite a lot after the man had done a short session and had requested he simply wait, as he’d intended, for the Archon to return and discuss the payment. Though from what was said, Baizhu had planned to wave off any form of payment…

The reason being that a ‘God shouldn’t pay for good intent.’

… A God. An all powerful being with the ability to rival all. A rank unreachable by man, nor General nor High Elder.

From what he’d gathered from the conversation between the healer and his… ‘snake’, Lord Morax, the ‘Archon’, was the God of the Nation. Archon being the term for God.

The question, though, was had he achieved that through a given power or born with it? He appeared as a Vidyadhara to the General, but it appeared it wasn’t that simple, that maybe he wasn’t of the species at all. In which case, what exactly was the creature? He was draconic, like the species, he held far too many mirrored features for it to be coincidence. A parallel perhaps? The same species but with an opposing element from another station or planet?

Were he able to return to Xianzhou Luofu, he’d be able to send a message to Dan Heng to receive his knowledge of the matter, Bailu as well… As it stood, he was unexpectedly unable to send or receive messages in this land.

It was… strange. Much akin to earlier, he glanced up at the sky, again seeing no indication of an external structure encasing the large environment-.

Jing Yuan paused, his gaze falling upon the Vidyadhara ? in question. His lips parted slightly, seeing the bright smile on his regal person. He’d hazard an assumption that it was genuine with the way he appeared to glow while bantering with the elderly woman at the peak of the stairs. The talk seemed quite relaxing for him, he could see the lack of tenseness in his shoulders as there had been earlier.

He watched, waiting, gazing as the lean elegance of the Archon gave the woman a simple bow upon, presumably, ending the conversation. He descended the stairs fluidly, no misstep or wasted footing while swiftly making his way to their meeting. Only moments passed with the General never breaking his line of sight from him. Had his robe been so windswept before? Or had he simply not noticed? Granted, he’d been quite distracted by the rest of his unique features.

Jing Yuan had a slight wonder whether he had more to his wardrobe, separate attires besides the graceful and fitting robe. Something more casual, maybe. He could imagine that he didn’t wear it from dawn to dusk, even he himself changed his garb at the end of the day to something more resembling lounge-wear.

The General eased himself away from the pillar to greet the creature as the nation's Monarch climbed the last of the stairs towards him, slowing at the very top. As graceful as ever.

“Lord Morax,” he nodded his head in a small bow, the gesture being returned smoothly with a soft smile still gracing his caramel beauty.

“General Jing Yuan,” the God replied with a mirrored greeting, “I trust the examination went well?” he questioned swiftly, genuine curiosity clear in his firm gaze. The General had let a soft chuff leave his chest, a simple, quiet hum of a good mood.

“A collection of migraines, nothing dire. Your healer performed a small session of healing and gave me this for my tea,” the taller man lifted the hand holding the bottle, drawing the Archon’s gaze momentarily, “I was advised to use half a spoon twice a day until they subside,” he informed simply, observing his posture relax with relief.

“Good. I assume that you’re alright for the moment,” he seemed to think aloud with the assumption and returned his gaze to his, “Would you care for breakfast? I have some time before I need to tend to another meeting,” 

… the General tilted his head, having seen the tension return at his mention of another meeting. Being quite observant himself, he could see his negative reaction regarding it. It… resembled Dan Heng’s mannerisms following his exposure as the Vidyadhara High Elder during the Scalegorge incident. Though the Archon appeared to hide it far better for any normal person to not see it.

“I would appreciate the company,” the General replied warmly. The God nodded, that fraction of ease returning to his frame before he turned to the building and stepped in to deal with the payment of Jing Yuan’s check up.

Notes:

As always, feel free to mention any typos if you see them.

Thank you so much for such amazing feedback, the support and encouragement is bewildering!

Chapter 4

Notes:

I bless you with another chapter! A tad shorter, but still just over the 2k mark!

I figure I could get the questions and answers started in the fic now that they were getting comfortable with each other.

The Archon felt the urge to cancel his meetings for the day with how content and comfortable he had been feeling during his breakfast with the new arrival. The atmosphere had been warm, small talk being uttered while waiting for their food, followed by a stressless silence that they shared upon receiving their bowls.

It had appeared that the stranger was not aware of the types of meals this particular restaurant offered, but then again, Morax had already concluded that the man was, indeed, not from Liyue. His reactions explained enough during their first meeting. Though with the food, he appeared to have the normal human tongue and stomach as he ate with appreciation to the taste.

It hadn’t been long before the two had finished their meals, the Archon being the first to set his chopsticks atop his bowl and relax back with the thought of simply taking a seat on the corner sofa that was placed snugly against the wall of the private seated room. He’d requested a table for two upon appearing, but much akin to the few times he’d asked for a table since reinstatement, he’d always been given a private room rather than being able to share the space with others.

… It seeded a sense of isolation at first, but he’d had to swallow the feeling, if only to avoid worrying the people if any of it slipped into his expression. He continued to order and shared his space, but with other Adepti, such as Yanfei, Ganyu and even Madam Ping. He did manage to convince his own General to join him on occasion, but Alatus-, or Xiao-, preferred the quiet of Wangshu Inn for his meals when the urge struck.

There had been a chance to share a cup of tea with the Adepti outside of the city, though that had been a little while ago.

“As much as I enjoy a delicious meal and a comfortable quiet to eat it-,” Morax took a glance towards the seated man ahead of him, seemingly having finished his own meal, “-I do like to interact with my company post-meal. Earlier, I requested you to humour my curiosity,” ah yes, he recalled the man's request, though it’d been halted due to the meeting.

“Yes, I remember. I’ll answer as best I can, though I do have a few questions myself,” the Archon replied and rose from his seat, motioning towards the corner sofa with a smooth wave of his hand. To his delight, the General stood as well, following him to the corner where Morax lowered to sit back, a leg crossing over the other with laced hands resting in his lap. His tail had shifted aside, draped along the cushion and following along the side of his leg. To his surprise upon glancing towards the other, he was sat with a leg curled beneath him, sitting somewhat side-on to the Archon, facing him in a way with an elbow placed on the lower back of the cushion, cradling his jaw. He’d expected a much more formal position, not that he wasn’t glad that the other felt so comfortable around him.

“In return, I’ll answer as honestly as I can,” he nodded, smiling some. Morax returned it, feeling… content by his actions. 

“My first question… or statement, rather,” the man started, “Liyue harbour is simply the harbour based in a nation named Liyue,” he paused, Morax nodding and seemingly affirming his conclusion, “And you are the Sovereign, their Archon, to which I recently learned was a term for ‘God’,” at that, he grew a tad stiff, his fingers tightening between his rest palms, “Are there other nations and other Archons?”

To say that they started off quite strong was a dramatic understatement…

“There are,” he nodded slowly and a tad stiffly, “There are seven nations of different elements. I am one of Seven Archons and am the oldest of the Archons, as well as the oldest of the Original Seven,” he explained further, taking a short breath to eye the other, wanting to gauge his reaction. Unfortunately, with his level of expression reading, it was in vain. He appeared to be adept at hiding his thoughts.

“May I ask your age, Lord Morax?” was the follow up question, the title deflating him still internally.

“I'm over six thousand years old,” he stated, surprised at the sudden shock on the mans face. He’d been able to hide his thoughts a mere few seconds ago, but that reaction was a shock? Morax blinked, a tad stunned by the very evident stun in the General’s features.

“Six thousand,” the man muttered, appearing to shift just slightly, “Apologies. I’ve only ever met a being that had lived to a few hundred at most, Lord,” he bowed his head to the Archon, Morax nodding in understanding of the reaction.

“It’s quite alright… Pardon my own curiosity, but were they an Adeptus? Or Yokai perhaps? Or of a similar origin?” given that it had been a few hundred years, it’d have made sense if they were from Teyvat. Though considering the conclusion the Archon was coming to, he felt that the beings had to be neither. And seeing the expression he received was answer enough.

“I’ve not heard of those terms, unfortunately. The beings in question are known as Vidyadhara, which is what I’ve been referring to ‘you’ as due to your very coincidentally similar features to them,” it was Morax that gave him a surprised expression this time, the Archon releasing a slightly higher pitched hum in question.

“I have their features?” he gawked some, drawing his composure back as swiftly as he could, “Are they Archons as well?” he added. If there were other Archon’s, he’d be very aware of them, but if they weren’t of Teyvat…

“No no. The Vidyadhara aren’t Gods, but their lifespan is quite impressive as well as their abilities. The features I’m referring to are the draconic ones and the atmosphere you exude,” the General replied swiftly, calming Morax’s brief flood of questions against himself, “Your appearance reminded me of their kind, but of an Earthy variation rather than the waterborn species I’m familiar with. Then again, it now makes sense. Our introduction, you referred to yourself as the ‘Geo’ Archon. The God of Stone, yes?”

“Yes. Though ‘The God of Rock’ is actually one of the numerous titles I’ve received over the years,” he chuffed softly and slowly crossed his arms over his chest, “Returning to the topic of the ‘Vidy-Adhara’-,” he attempted, “-You say they have dragon features and that I share those features. The horns and tail but I am of a different element?”

“Quite, yes. From our first meeting, I’ve assumed that you were one in the same, that maybe I’d somehow landed myself in a location where the stone variations of them were homed. Though there seems to be only you with these features and although they’re categorised as a Long-lived species, you set the bar… quite high for that category. Six Thousand years, and all,” the man chuckled softly, appearing to lighten the mood. Intentionally or otherwise. Though he could hazard a guess that it was intentional. Morax was not blind, he could see how observant the General seemed.

“Higher,” the Archon mentioned, earning himself a hum in question, “I said that I'm 'Over six thousand years old’. Not that I was that young,” And there, he saw his shock return, the realisation seeming to strike him once more that he was far older than that.

“I was an Adeptus before I became the nation's Archon,” he revealed, watching the other closely. He appeared to have shocked him twice with his age, though maybe with the addition of referring to Six thousand as young. It really wasn’t.

“You’re… continuously leaving me speechless, Lord Morax,” he’d heard the General state as he relaxed further into the sofa as he gazed, the Archon catching the silent glint in his eye.

“... Though for your age, you’re still able to catch the gaze of others more than many within the long-lived species I’ve met who've passed their prime,” the comment had caught him by surprise, his eyes widening some. The smile though, the one adorning the General’s features. It was warm, playful, a mood lightener, and after a moment, Morax huffed a small chuckle.

“I appreciate the sentiment, General… and return it, minus the age section,” he replied, eyeing him a moment longer, “And please, call me Morax,” the Archon finally added, catching the slight head tilt from the man across from him, seeming… amused? No…

“Then allow me to repay in kind… Call me Jing Yuan rather than General. And might I add that I’m also far older than I appear,” he lowered his head in a bow, Morax following the gesture with a warmth lightly flowing within his chest.

“Thank you for joining me for breakfast, Jing Yuan,” the God lifted his head a tad before straightening up, “I assume that you have more questions? Surely they weren’t all about myself and the nation itself,” he mentioned, watching as the older got comfortable once more. Gathering what he’d seen and heard so far and his theory of the man being a Descender of sorts, he could almost imagine the growing questions.

“I do, but I’d rather not bombard you. Pardon my comparison, but being a General entails a lot of work and effort, so I can’t imagine your own workload as the Monarch of a nation, Morax,” the gesture alone warmed his Core. He’d wanted to avoid working him more with answers to questions and had even considered the amount he likely did daily? It was heart-warming to have had the consideration… but…

“In all honesty, I’ve enjoyed ‘humouring your curiosity’. I’ve found our conversation interesting and wouldn’t mind hearing more about your world… Are we of the same mind that you are, indeed, not from Teyvat?” he finally asked the large question and saw the moment of thought pass the mans features.

“If I’m correct in assuming that Teyvat would be this worlds name, then yes, I do not originate from this planet,” the General shook his head in return with a small smile, “And I’ve found our conversation quite enlightening myself, my friend,” Morax had registered the reply the moment he’d said it, but the addition of ‘my friend’ had caused him to pause, the content warmth returning.

“Would you care to continue it once my other meetings have been seen to? I’m fortunate to only have another three after midday. I have no other following engagements today,” and just the thought of the meetings were causing him to steel himself for more of what he’d dealt with during the meeting with Lady Ningguang. A walk along Guyun Stone Forest would hopefully ease him and given the opportunity to have the General’s company…

“I would indeed. I’m quite eager to learn more, though I may have more specifics to my next plethora of questions,” the other had replied, following Morax as he shifted to stand. The Archon regarded him a moment as he saw to his attire to make sure all was in order.

“I’ll do my best to answer,” he bowed and gestured towards the door, the two taking their leave and Morax, again, was denied his chance to pay for their meals and room at the Liuli Pavilion. Regardless of how regularly he was denied, he still offered.

It was while they were stepping out of the building that the Archon straightened up and returned to his atmosphere that others expected him to tirelessly wield. Upon entering the street, he turned to the General, catching his eye smoothly and causing him to slow to a halt beside him, analysing him, it seemed.

“Feel free to venture the harbour. I’ll return to you once I’m clear of meetings. I shouldn’t be too long, but if you feel that you’re tired or bored in some sense, please don’t hesitate to find me at the Yuehai Pavilion,” he informed, lingering in their shared gaze with the taller man still watching him closely. He felt no ill motive, not that he thought he’d feel it. Rather, he felt a tad… self conscious with it.

“Thank you, but I feel as though boredom won’t find me easily with the beauty of your harbour,” the General replied with a warm smile. With the mood he’d been in beforehand, Morax had very much wanted to cancel any meetings, not that he should, as they were important, but… 

“If you see anything you’d like I’ll be happy to purchase it for you once I’m done,” the Archon nodded and reached a hand to the mans shoulder, giving him a gentle pat. Unexpectedly, he’d watched as the General’s hand lifted and covered the Gods' own for a moment, sharing the sentiment with a warmer flicker within the Archon’s chest.

“So it’ll be free,” the man smirked down at him, “This is the second time I’ve seen your payments declined, Lord Morax. I doubt third time’s a charm where you’re concerned,” the tone he’d used, it was clear he found amusement in it and the Archon’s attempts. Honestly, he was glad it amused ‘someone’. And thankfully, the General was aware to use formality in public, Morax hadn’t thought to mention it, though it seemed as though he hadn’t needed to at all.

“I’m very tempted to take it as a challenge, General… Though it’d be a loss for me, as you’d be correct,” the Archon chuffed softly, giving his shoulder a light pat with his fingers before easing his hand from the man's own and shoulder.

“I’ll be awaiting your return, Lord Morax,” the white haired man bowed some before beginning to meander past him, Morax turning slightly to watch him. It was brief, only a short moment and soon, the Archon was making his way back towards Yuehai Pavilion to continue with his upcoming meetings, to his disappointment.

Notes:

I loved the thought that Jing Yuan was genuinely taken aback by the fact that Zhongli is far older than expected.

Just to inform anyone that's curious:
- I get my information from the canon wiki pages.
- I won't be revealing any ages for Jing Yuan as it hasn't been released by HSR.

Regarding his age, there are a lot of conflicting pieces of info, but most seem to be of the impression that he's far older than anyone with a human lifespan.
So that's where I'm heading for this fanfiction too.
Long lifespan Jing Yuan.

Chapter 5

Notes:

More info coming at you in this chapter!!
Just Jing Yuan having his time to look around and get more intel on the place and his Archon ^^

He was not one to be stunned silent so easily, and even having woken up in an unknown land to a very strikingly featured individual hadn’t shocked him enough to leave him lost as deep in thought. But to find out that the Archon was several thousand years old had been a shock, and not even Six thousand, but far more. The General was still attempting to wrap his mind around the notion that there was someone so many thousand years older…

Yes, Jing Yuan was deceivingly far older than all thought as well, but he had not reached a thousand and was a few hundred years from that immense number. He’d lived for a long time, had seen so much and felt that much more through loss, through love, through life in all its positives and negatives… But to live past Six Thousand…

Just how much loss could one man bare and still stay sane…?

Granted, the General couldn't imagine the strain the God was under, the weighted pressure that pressed down on him, and yet he was still carrying it with strong shoulders, with his solidly trained air. Despite not being able to imagine the strain for that long of a period, the General could see that he was forcing himself, and he had no blame to bear. He couldn’t imagine himself taking on such a grand and enormous responsibility for so long and not feeling the weighted pressure and pain, having to witness so much…

Among that, the Archon was a warrior. To the trained eye, the General could see the tell tale signs of a greatly trained Warrior. The posture, the stare, the carefully chosen words and inability to not analyse the situation, any situation. He was no Soldier, but rather… the leader of an unbelievable number of them, he’d believe. And he was not delusional enough to think that the God hadn’t seen his times of War. Rather, he’d assume that the Archon had seen countless more than what he himself had seen, and had led them all, he’d wager.

A soft sigh slipped from his nose as he’d finally descended the long stairs to the lowest platform of the harbour. His gaze drifted along the dock while he strode along towards the barrier separating himself from the almost ethereal sight from where he’d come to a stop.

A tad to the left and up, he could very easily where where he had been found by the Archon, a glow of the sun hitting the area and further along to where the cliff edge met the ocean, an ocean full of beautifully designed ships either docked or leaving, one in the distance appearing to becoming in. A breath-taking view further out lay numerous tall, jagged hilts of tone, pointed in many directions, but ultimately appeared to pierce the ocean and drive up parts of earth to create small sandy islands between each mountain.

He briefly wondered if the rest of the nation was as striking as the Archon as this view was… If the Archon was of Geo, he could create the landscape, yes? He’d have to ask if he had created the present appearance of the Nation. Another question to add to his ever growing list.

The General spared a moment longer with the view before turning to the right, planning to venture away from the direction he’d been found, as it appeared the water met the dock farther along and would lead him up a wooden walkway to the upper platform ahead. He followed the railing, passing by a very long dock and then up towards the walkway.

Meandering along, he could smell the sweet scent of food, calls from stall owners and the talk of a few he’d passed by. The bustling civilians of the harbour were lively, positive airs of conversation and delight. He could see further beauty than just the view alone with how all seemed happy from what he’d heard and seen so far. He could hazard an assumption that this was an aspect of the nation that uplifted the Archon’s mood as it uplifted his own as an outsider.

After a few moments, the calls of stalls grew louder, referring to more fish based sales as he’d entered a more open square of the dock. It was filled with fish sellers and workers moving tall wooden plants and beams, a fishers market and resource space, he’d assumed. The air had changed in scent, though it wasn't all that unpleasant. It was a mixture of both raw and cooked fish, the cooked fish coming from an area up the long yet shallow stairs leading back to the upper platforms.

He followed the path, passing by the calling fish salesmen and manual labourers, meandering up the stairs and returning to the mid level. He avoided the large warehouse at the very end, not wanting to get in the way of the ones that appeared to be rebuilding structures within, boats from what he could see from his position, very large ones, much akin to the ones he’d seen on the water.

It was… bewildering, to say the least. He knew they were boats, but he’d only seen the ones that soared through their skies and space. These ones clearly didn’t soar above, but rather soared through oceans.

Continuing up the route, the smell of cooked fish grew that much stronger, along with the yells of children and another voice between the noise, a storyteller? A poet maybe? His voice was deep and strong, adding emotion to his words and after a moment of walking, he could indeed decipher it as a story rather than a poem or song.

“-such a grand scale battle upon our doorstep, tension running high with only the single God of our nation left to fend the harbour so instantly. A past tale, though, our beloved Rex Lapis fought for our safety! He plunged spear after spear into the Hydro abyss at our horizon, thwarting attempts made by the monsters of the depths to disturb his rule as Archon, to disrupt our harbour,” Jing Yuan slowed, his gaze drifting to the origin of the voice and stopped short of the upper platform of a building where a man openly told the story, another Archon by the name of Rex Lapis?

“Strike after strike pinned the beasts to the ocean floor, sealing away any future chance to continue their ill intents. Some speculate that they remain sealed to this day! Clawing at the immoveable bindings plunged to the depths by our nation's Archon!” the General listened, mind whirring with the detail, one being that the Archon himself had explained that he was one of the original Gods. Another name for the Geo Lord, then?

“To this day, he ventures to the Guyun Stone Forest personally, tending to his foes restraints on the daily with the intent to be sure that they will not rise once more and threaten us further,” the man slowed towards the end, straightening up from where he’d been entertaining the few sat around him and another few watching as Jing Yuan did on the side-lines. He’d commend the storyteller for his way with atmosphere, the General having been listening intently.

What was told did answer a question, though with a grain of salt, the Archon, if he was Rex Lapis, had in fact fought a battle. Another question to add to his list regarding the storyteller and his finely worded chapter. Rex Lapis, the monsters beneath the waves and a battle fought by this Archon. Did that mean that the large stone mountains in the distance was once where a battle took place?

Or was this merely fiction?

“Sir, might I ask a question?” at that, the General returned his gaze to the platform, watching as the storyteller approved the edge of his small stage. He was eyeing him, a small smile on his face.

“You may, so long as I’m able to ask a few in return,” Jing Yuan lifted his head a little further, his arms crossing loosely over his chest as the other motioned to a now empty table on the platform. With a nod, the General restarted walking, rounding the corner and climbing the few stairs to be within the strangers' space. He followed the tellers motion and sat at the table, carefully eyeing the man as he’d gotten comfortable.

“I apologise for assuming, but the moment I saw your attire and features, I saw a story waiting to be told. I am Tian, also known as Iron Tongue Tian,” the man greeted with a bright and polite smile as he waved to the building beside them, a young woman already at the ready with a tray in hand.

“No need for an apology. You’d be correct with the assumption, though I fear they may be far too long to explain in a single sitting,” he admitted with a slight breathy chuff, “My name is Jing Yuan,” he introduced, wanting to avoid the formality with a title now that it was clear he wasn’t of this world.

“Not to worry, I won’t push for a tale, regardless of how much I’d like to hear,” he chuckled, reaching for cups on the tray the moment the woman had set it down for them to share a drink together, “I saw that you were quite enthralled with my tale a moment ago. Did you enjoy it?”

“It was very entertaining to listen. It gave me the image of an enormously powerful Archon to be able to seal so many others away alone,” he nodded slowly, settling his own cup in front of him, briefly eyeing the ingredients to sweeten the cups. To which he reached for and added a few cubes of sugar.

“The Geo Archon holds true power. He’s fought wars upon wars in his years. The greatest and most disastrous of them had to be the Archon War. We know so much from past tales, but even the Archon himself has never revealed the details, he’s only confirmed theories and the more known pieces of information. The details, he’s been against explaining in person,” the Archon war.

Jing Yuan hummed softly as he lifted the cup to his lips, uncertain of whether he should ask the Archon any questions regarding the war. If he refused to answer the storyteller, then it was unlikely he’d receive the answers from Morax…

“Would you be willing to explain the Archon during the war?” the General asked curiously around the rim of the cup before sipping. He appeared to catch the man's interest as his smile returned.

“Rex Lapis was seen quite differently during those times. It was called the Archon War due to it being a vast war for the Thrones of Archon titleship within the Geo nation. He was but a powerful being amongst his own, if not ‘the’ most powerful, and the battles were long and dreadful, a plethora of deaths upon deaths and with him leading the strong to victory. He was seen as ruthless, a cold-blooded participant of the war that destroyed his foes without hesitation or question. At the start of the war, it’s known that he once shared his rule but they had fallen during the war, as did so many of his followers-,” a pang of cold ache reached his chest when he heard that latter quarter of the tale, his assumption being very much confirmed that the God had suffered loss on a grander scale.

“-I can understand his refusal to detail further events of the war with how much cruelty the war brought from both sides. The story you had been present for was a battle during this very war, though besides the monsters, there was another. Two thousand years ago, Rex Lapis sealed away another God by the name of Osial by piercing him with stone lances. Guyun Stone Forest is where it took place, and recently, he’d escaped, only to be sealed once more after the Archon had shed his Godly vessel,”

The General paused and lowered his cup once more, blinking in confusion. Shed his Godly vessel? Had he been using another form before the appearance of the Archon he was privy to?

“It was as if Osial had chosen that very moment to attack the harbour, as if aware that the Archon was off guard for the moment,” had Osial been aware of some form of shed that left Morax weak for a brief time? The fact that there had been a recent attack was a surprise. The harbour looked immaculate to say the least.

“They sound like a cunning enemy,” he replied slowly, filing away all the information he’d been given. Excluding the questions of the War for the moment, he had quite a few to ask of the Monarch and hopefully, he wouldn’t add to his stress with them. Already, he was aware that the ones of War would bring back his turmoil, as War tended to do all too easily. He refused to allow that and he himself had no business bringing up the past from that long ago.

With a slow nod, the General set down his now empty cup, shifting it ahead of him.

“I appreciate the tales, Mr Tian. It was a pleasure listening to you,” he bowed respectfully and moved to stand. The man appeared to follow, bowing in return.

“Perhaps next time, I can add your stories to the ones I tell, Mr Jing Yuan. I’m grateful for the company,” the General nodded and turned to leave, heading down the few steps into the open space where a pond sat. Glancing to his left, a bridge led into the mountains, giving him the impression of a city exit and to the route ahead, it led back to the area he’d departed after the chat with the Archon himself. If he recalled, it was along the path to the Pharmacy and the upper platforms as well. And the spot where he’d been found if he was to venture down the steps again and head out of the dock.

In all honesty, he’d have rather waited for the Archon before returning to the cliff edge. He wanted the Vidyadh- ‘being’ to be able to find him.

… Jing Yuan breathed a soft, silent chuckle, having needed to internally correct himself. With the lord's appearance still in his mind, the thought of referring to him as a Vidyadhara was still very present.

With a slight shake of his head, the General began walking straight ahead towards where he had last bantered with the Archon, passing by a few civilians and stores before meandering along the between the two large areas-.

“Hello! You’re Zhongli’s new friend, yes~?” Jing Yuan paused, his gaze swiftly snapping to… a young woman standing at the corner of the bridge. An interesting appearance, he’d admit.

The woman’s hair was styled with two high twin tails parted with her bangs side-swept to her left, the layers framing her fair complexioned face curled inwards and the layers behind curled outwards. Her eyes were very unique, being noticeably bright with scarlet irises with white, blossom-shaped pupils.

In terms of clothing, she wore a black hat emblazoned with a wooden talisman, adorned with a red plum blossom branch in bloom, along with an indigo tassel tied in a looped knot. A red shirt with a mandarin collar was visible beneath a brown coat with a darker collar and sleeved cuffs with black shorts with gold accents. At her back appeared to be long with long rectangular coattails, and golden brooches attached underneath her coat's collar and waist. At the very base of her appearance, the woman wore a pair of mid-calf length white socks, red straps with plum blossoms wrapped around the cuffs, along with low-heeled black dress shoes. The rest were simple finger accessories and painted nails.

Jing Yuan blinked, keeping his gaze firm on the young woman. Regardless of her almost childlike excited air, he could very easily see that she was analysing him from where she stood. What peaked his interest was that she was staring him dead in the eye with no waver in her frame whatsoever.

“... Zhongli?” he questioned simply with a quirk to his brow.

Notes:

As always, I get my information from online and tend to be careful to see where the majority of information leans towards. And with appearance descriptions, I follow the wiki pages.
I'm trying my best with the Archon War based stuff and it may seem a lil' confusing? If it does, don't worry, Zhongli will give a better idea of it soon enough.

Jing Yuan:
- I've found out that he's AT LEAST a few hundred years old and people seem to speculate that he's near enough 800, give or take.
- Don't come at me about this speculation. I genuinely just like the idea that he's that old, it makes things very interesting. (Still not revealing a guesstimation, myself)

And YES!!!! We have Hu Toa dropping in with a spoiler for Jing Yuan!!

Chapter 6

Notes:

THIS FIC!!!! I'm enjoying these two far too much. They're an absolute BLAST to write!!! T^T

For as long as the General had stared at the young woman, she’d stared just as firmly upon his question in return. It was a name, he’d gathered that rather swiftly, but he hadn’t met anyone by that name just yet, unless she was referring to the storyteller? But hadn’t his name been Tian? Besides the teller, he’d only chatted with a small handful. Morax, Lady Ganyu, the Pharmacist and his little companion and then the storyteller. And the healer’s name had been Baizhu, had it not?

“It… appears that you’ve not been here all that long,” the young woman smiled sheepishly, much akin to a child attempting to make light of a mistake, “My apologies. He’s returned to his far more renowned name even with friends it seems,” there was a fraction of a saddened glint in her features before it was suddenly gone.

Jing Yuan eyed her for her wording, the gears turning only for a short moment to assume that she had been referring to the Archon himself, as who else would have a ‘far more renowned name’ of the few people he’d interacted with? But he had to be sure…

“Are you referring to Lord Morax, Miss?” he questioned, watching as she seemed to take that as a moment to collect herself from her slight slip of the tongue.

“Yes… Though… by your reaction, I get the impression that he’s not really explained the ordeal prior to your seemingly recent arrival. I assumed that you were close since he’d taken you for a meal,” she admitted with a somewhat awkwardness to her smile as she linked her hands behind herself.

“Ordeal? Would I be correct in assuming it had something to do with him having another name?” he asked simply, his gaze never leaving the woman and followed her movement as she nodded in return.

“You’d be correct, Mister. For a short time, he adorned a human persona to walk with his people. Only a few months, but long enough that he left an impression. He was my Consultant at the Parlour and went by the name Zhongli,” she explained simply but with detail, to Jing Yuan’s relief. As short as it was, he could gather quite a bit from it. She’d been close with the ‘man’ and had gotten to see more than most with the personal space they’d likely have shared.

He’d assume that maybe she’d seen more genuinity from the Archon than any other human in the harbour…

“Were you aware that he was the Archon while he worked with you?” he asked curiously, wanting to get a feel for any reasons that could have been left out or correctly concluded. If he had any extra questions for him, some regarding him disguised as a human would likely come up after this abrupt meeting.

“I was not. None of us were. It begs the question ‘why’ he was adorning the false persona, maybe to judge his people directly? To gauge our beliefs? To see if we were ignorant to not see it was him? … I believe not,” she smiled warmly, clearly not believing her own voiced reasons, “Only a short time I’ve shared with him, but he never once portrayed any negativity or judgement towards us,”

“What do you believe?” the General tilted his head in question and saw her smile grow that fraction wider, a light hearted chuckle leaving the young lady.

“I believe that he simply wanted to join us in the harbour he nurtured,” she replied with no hesitation, “Logically, would you not want to explore the flower garden you’ve tended to for months? He couldn’t very well do it in his previous form that we were accustomed to before taking on a socially inept human form,” she shrugged, the girl having caught his attention with her perspective of the Archon. She seemed to understand him better than he’d first thought.

“Socially inept, you say?” he was mildly amused by the words she’d used. He hadn’t expected the character description to include such an informal term placed on him.

“Aiya, yes! His understanding of everything besides people was far, far above phenomenal insight. His level of knowledge and trivia bested all, but when regarding humans, even conversation, he seemed to lack something, the simplicities of banter was a struggle. Human decorum was quite lost on him,” she laughed softly, a tad animatedly with arms as they wrapped around her front to cross over her chest.

“But he tried and learned and did indeed make a name for himself as a human,” she added with a proud smile, “Zhongli held a very highly loved reputation among the people, but… the people now believe that it was due to his Archonic air he still exuded… Sometimes, I feel as though he would’ve preferred to stay human,”

The General saw the drop in mood, even so much as feeling it in her atmosphere. He could see that she didn’t believe that, that she knew that it was likely just how Zhongli truly was and not just due to his power… He could feel her emotions on the matter as clearly as he saw the blue of the sky. She was a simply worded book with how her feelings were plainly shown on her face.

“... Might I ask why the change?” Jing Yuan waited a moment, hearing the questioning hum, “Why he’d returned to being the Archon if you’re so sure of the preference?”

“Oh! That wasn’t his intention, I believe. When Osial attacked, the harbour had just barely managed to survive with the help of a handful of Adepti, but we were one devastating blast away from being taken out. That was when Zhongli stepped in… It was to save us. Which is why I believe that he hadn’t wanted to return to being the Archon,” if so… the General could feel the weight grow atop Morax’s shoulders. On top of all that pressure, finding a moment of break in hopes of easing the stress only to return to being what he preferred to de’stress from? Any hope of breaks were sadly shot down in the face of future attacks…

“Your keen sense is as sharp as ever, Director,” the very recognizable voice of the Archon passed between them, the two snapping their gaze to the side to see the God himself standing there.

“Zhongli! Good afternoon. Come to re-join me as my Consultant, I see~,” the General could hear the blatant amusement in her playful sentence, but what caught his attention more than her informal and warm welcome to the other was the expression that Morax had let slip. The bright smile and soft chuckle, a genuine moment where he let his feelings reach his exterior and…

Jing Yuan could feel his own lips curve at the sight, finding his reaction to be something he’d want to see for himself throughout his time there.

“I regret to inform you that a ghastly number of meetings would regularly interrupt my work hours within your establishment, Miss Hu Toa,” the Archon lowered his head in a bow, and again, the General saw no waver to the amusement the being was allowing past his immoveable walls in her company.

“Ah, a shame. You’re quite irreplaceable-, not that I’ve tried!” she swiftly raised her hands and frantically waved them, earning another chuckle from the God.

“Thank you for your kind words, Director… It’s good to see you’re doing well-,” 

“Come on, Zhongli. No need for formality with me,” again, Jing Yuan saw the smile curve a fraction more before he appeared to recollect himself, “I should apologise for accosting your new friend though,” she’d gestured to the General, who glanced between them before his gaze fell to the Archon. 

“No need. You saved him from having to wait any further for my return. I thank you,” he bowed again and after a moment, the mood felt… final, the two sharing a brief silence. The General shifted slightly, stepping closer to Morax.

“Don’t be a stranger, Zhongli,” came a soft mention from the young woman. Glancing to the God, he’d caught the slow nod and warm smile only seconds before he was slowly turning away and began walking, the white haired man following after him. The pace was gradual, relaxed, softer than earlier… less strained for the shorter being beside him.

Though despite the difference from the previously overwhelmed creature to the warmer air change to him, Jing Yuan could see that his silence on their walk was unintentional, the General following him down the steps regardless that he had no clue as to where he was being led by the Archon. In thought, he assumed. With the downcast gaze and automatic stride, he was heading along without word of a destination.

A while of this and he’d assumed that they were heading back towards the cliff edge moments after leaving the harbour. They were striding along the grassy blanket that led to where Jing Yuan had been found that morning, and passing it, along with a small pond and tree. They were heading for the very edge, or just shy of it as the Archon slowed, the wind catching his robes.

“... I apologise for my silence. I’m collecting my thoughts,” the man's voice spoke after a while. The tone was soft, quiet, something akin to a loss of confidence entangled and his expression mirrored it.

He watched him carefully, taking in the change in the being. The stress, the inner conflict in his strong gaze, the impression that he’d wanted a moments rest… To the young lady’s senses, he had to agree. It really did appear that he’d wanted a break, to take his time to relax from his duty as the Archon… He felt for him.

“You’re allowed to feel, Morax. Even a God needs time to counter what ails them, I’d wager,” he replied slowly, calmly, watching as the other lifted his gaze to him, staring him in the eye with a look that Jing Yuan could describe as utter relief. His tension appeared to leave him swiftly, his posture growing slack as if he’d just dropped the weighted stress of his morning.

It was beyond him what the Archon felt. Regardless of Jing Yuan’s own enormous age, he couldn’t imagine the ache Morax felt. They did not share a commonality in experience and the Archon had thousands of years on the General, the level of loss, strain, stress, pain and the heartbreak of an ancient love for his people, only to be isolated after only an attempt of mingling with them. There was no moment to breathe a sigh of relief.

Jing Yuan bit his tongue, wanting to aid in calming him, - and himself after even attempting to imagine the amount this being had lived through-. He slowly lifted a hand, fingers brushing the Archon’s shoulder only to feel him flinch just slightly, but had forced himself still, had briefly eased into his hand as he’d let his palm rest against the visibly taught and strong frame. His breathing was odd, uneven, his gaze closed with a soft frown…

He waited briefly, not wanting to discomfort the Archon if he was against it. Overall, he could see the signs that he himself was testing it, allowing the General to initiate and attempting to keep himself still and calm.

It took some effort for him to lift the other, repeating the motion before both hands were resting on the Gods’ shoulders, his thumbs softly brushing the muscle shy of where his joint sat beside the ends of his collarbones.

“Would you prefer I call you Zhongli? You appeared more at ease when the young woman did,” he started quietly, his tone soft yet deep, only for the being of Earth to hear him.

“... No,” came an even softer reply, the General’s gaze never leaving the torn God, “... When you refer to me as Morax, there’s a difference. I can’t quite decipher the reason though,” he’d added in thought, his frown gradually parting, to Jing Yuan’s relief as the taller of the two inched closer, watching as the other grew accustomed to his close presence.

“... Could you speak of the Vidyadhara once more?” He’d been practising the pronunciation it seemed. Jing Yuan smirked slightly at that, his soft caressing shifting lower on his upper arms to draw him a fraction closer.

“Indeed I can, Morax,” it was eventual, but once he’d gotten them close enough, the God had lifted his gaze, eyes open and the height difference was that much more visible that the General was the tallest by a few inches… And at that distance, the man could see just how detailed Morax’s eyes were, as breath-taking as ever.

A soft golden caramel gradient, a glowing white circle with a glowing white diamond resting in its centre. A pool of unparalleled wealth of experience and an untouched warmth wanting time away from witnessing more… than what was ahead of him.

He hadn’t realised that he’d been gazing into those vast pools of gold, and for as long as he had until he’d suddenly caught the slight shift of the beings cheeks. He blinked, eyeing the God to see that he was smiling warmly up at him, having caught Jing Yuan in his stupor.

“It appears I’m not the only one distracted,” his deep, silken voice muttered with a tell-tale amused tone, having found some entertainment in the reaction it seemed. Not that he would counter it, he was glad to have caused the lighter mood in the Gods demeanour.

“It appears not,” the General chuffed with a smile in return, gazing once more at him, “Your eyes are something to behold,” he’d added softly, taking in the details of his face with his newly elated expression. His features were so sharp, but with the eyes, the slight redded paint along his eye-sides and the delicate smile… a beauty.

“Only my eyes, Jing Yuan?” at that, he paused, a breathy chuckle slipping his lips. He’d been caught it seemed. It’d been a simple jest while they sat and talked post meal, but it hadn’t entirely been a lie. From the moment he’d woken, he’d seen him as a very attractive being. He wasn't oblivious to attraction or beauty… contrary to what Yukong claimed of him.

“In my defence, I am but a man with very high standards that you happen to fit,” the General countered, amused and tilting his head while giving him a sturdy smirk which seemed to lighten the mood that much more as the Archon mirrored his chuckle, a hand being lightly draped against Jing Yuan’s chest.

“You have very unique standards,” came the amused, deadpanned statement.

Notes:

An update for you guys.
I've posted a chapter daily so far and from my perspective, these two are smoothly getting closer.
There'll be more times where they're together from here because I'd like to lead it towards Jing Yuan showing Zhongli that he really does need to distance himself from what's stressing him while also taking the time to show that he's not just the "Archon".

And for something way later on, I'm genuinely planning something that might relate to this version of Zhongli.
Skip to 02:55 minutes in.
[2024 Genshin Impact Spring Festival Party] The Divine Inquiry

I know you'll find it really damn cute when I get it posted. I'm so soft for it and it'll be really soon now that the two are this close already.

Chapter 7

Notes:

My og plan for this fic was to NOT POST DAILY, but these two are an absolute dream to write and get all lovey dovey with!!
So this was a very sweet one and I thought it would really fun to get a little deeper between them.

Despite having wanted to, the Archon hadn’t cancelled any meetings at the start of his day, rather he’d tended to each of them and had returned to the General as soon as he could. It had been a surprise to say the least, that he had found the man conversing with his previous Superior at the Wangsheng Funeral Parlour… Predictably, she’d explained quite a bit, enough that he hadn’t needed to elaborate from what he’d heard of the chat between them.

Morax hadn’t been too sure of how to… ‘talk’ to the man post finding him and had directed him back out of the city, away from the bustling harbour to catch his bearings, to try and find a way to calm himself.

Though as it had turned out, Jing Yuan had been the one to calm his restless nerves, going as far as to comfort him with contact. He wouldn’t say that it’d been that long since he’d felt any form of physical contact, but admittedly, those were simple casual gestures that were very few and far between. From the Director, it’d been when he’d worked with her. From Ganyu, the usual accidental footing that led to him catching her swiftly. With Alatus, his hand resting atop his head. But… none were as much of a shock as affection and comfort from another that genuinely appeared to want to care for him after having seen his stressed state.

He hadn’t ever shown this side to the others, none of them had been privy to his tired mentality. He wouldn’t say that they weren’t observant, their senses were sharp, but none appeared as observant as the General… It was a surprise to even him that the man could read him so well, to see past his walls of Cor Lapis…

Morax sighed softly, his gaze drifting over the speared mountains of the Stone forest ahead, blades of grass constantly swaying into view from his position lying side-long, facing the ocean. The General was still beside him, sat with bent legs, leaning to one side with an arm keeping him up. One leg was pointed up while the other was close to the Archon’s head. A simple stretch and Morax would likely hook his thigh belts with his horns. He absolutely did ‘not’ stretch, it’d be quite the struggle and humiliating to detangle himself from him.

“I hadn’t thought this land could appear anymore golden,” the General's voice reached him, the Archon tilting his head to look up at him from his position, though it only served to give him an upside down perspective as he’d only turned his head to look up.

“The sunset aids in making the nation glow. The Cor Lapis minerals shine brightly in this light and cast their luminosity across Liyue with how reflective they are,” Morax informed softly, gradually returning his gaze to the mountains and faintly seeing a few glowing specs, the Cor Lapis alongside other minerals that were untouched.

“Then, I take it, ‘you’ are made of Cor Lapis?” from the tone alone, Morax could tell that he was simply jesting, flirting with him, and maybe in an attempt to keep the warm, comforting and affectionate mood they’d settled into. His presence, his antics, had brought the Archon to such a relaxed state that it was a struggle to remind himself of the stresses he’d gathered of late upon reinstatement.

A slight chuff left his nose, Morax letting a smile grace his features as he continued to eye the mountains on the water.

“If you continue to flatter me, Jing Yuan, I’ll begin slacking in my duties,” he admitted quietly, earning himself a warm chuckle from the General.

It was… bizarre to him. Not the sound, but the fact that it hadn’t been a full day just yet and the speed in which he’d found himself relaxed in a strangers presence, and could call him a friend, how he found comfort in his affection. The man was far above charismatic and had a shocking adeptness in reading the Archon. In less than a day, the General had found a way to not only calm him, but reassure him, and for most of that day, they’d been apart…

Another bewildering thought… the Vidyadhara. He had no logicless hope of meeting them as it was still unknown as to how the General appeared. It was the features, the element. From what was told, Morax had their features, a mirrored appearance of their kind, but of Geo, rather than Hydro. The thought had latched itself into his mind, to know that there were others that he’d shared a design with.

The General… Jing Yuan, had shared some personal experience, a friend of his. An old comrade by the name of Dan Feng. From what was said, he felt as though he would have gotten along quite well with him, as well as another by the name of Yingxing. Both of which, he was told, weren’t with him as of then. He hadn’t elaborated on whether they had passed away or were simply not comrades at the time.

“Morax…” with his name being uttered, the Archon tilted his head up to the other again, seeing that he was always being watched in return. His gaze had been as soft as moments ago as he was regarded.

“As we’re both uncertain of how I came to be here, my next question would be, ‘Do you know of anyone that could aid us in finding out how or why I’m here’?” at that, the Archon hummed softly as he processed the question, a few thoughts surfacing as an attempt to answer. One had felt like a better option though.

“The God of Wisdom, Greater Lord Rukkhadevata. She had been the God of Wisdom, but sadly, she’d passed on a while ago and in her stead is Lesser Lord Kusanali. Though she is, by all means the Dendro Archon and an extension of the previous Archon, she’s returned to the start of her position once more to regain her knowledge. She’s, in a sense, relearning her position,” he’d informed as best he could. He, among the Archons, had been closer with the Greater Lord, be it their closely positioned nations, but she’d been a comfort, one that he had no hesitation in greeting. She had been a sweet young being.

“Regardless of this, I do not doubt that she’ll have answers for you. Whether or not they’ll be the answers you seek, is something I’m uncertain of,” the Archon added after a moment. Considering the mans status, it would be worth the trek to have an audience with the Lord of Dendro.

“I assume she’s in another nation with her position?” Jing Yuan had deflated just slightly, appearing to frown softly at the thought of a long journey maybe? The Archon was aware that the man understood the thrones of elements, that being that they weren’t centred in one place. The question was rhetorical.

“Fortunately, the Dendro Archon is in the nation neighbouring my own, and she’s positioned closer to our borders. Sending a messenger to request her insight personally would be quite swift. A full day for them to head out and return with word, I’d wager,” Morax replied with a slight smile, hoping to have reassured him. With the expression he’d earned, he’d chosen the correct option.

“Your nations are that close?” the man’s tone had lightened by quite a bit. The Archon nodded and shifted to sit up, turning towards the other with his legs crossed below him.

“My own nation stretches far vertically, and from our position, we have access to a few nations, those being Dendro, Anemo and even Hydro. Though with the Hydro Sovereigns position, it’s a far longer venture to meet them,” not that he would due to the complicated status of the Dragon that had more than equal power over the nation as their Chief Justice.

“You hold a very important position,” the man appeared impressed for a moment as he rested his head against his hand, his elbow digging into the knee that he had propped up.

“It’s beneficial. With our harbour, it’s mainly used for transporting commodities back and forth, and those from other nations to the North, West and between require it for resourceful location,” he informed with a proud smile, “Many that travel to the harbour have found a home within the port and have built a family. Our goods, imported and exported, earn the people a usable sum as well as give them excess to use to progress their lives and the next generations. I’ve watched thousands of generations grow from such a simple start, from one Mora to vast quantities,”

It was only then that he’d registered the warm expression on the other man's face, watching him with such a delightful smile, gazing at the Archon with his bright Sun Yellow stare. Morax swallowed softly and opened his mouth, feeling a tad too conscious of his babbling-.

“-Please don’t apologise for speaking your mind,” the General raised a hand to halt him,  “I’m quite taken by your love for your nation and its progressive developments,” the Archon simply eyed his hand before returning his own gaze to the taller man, feeling a flicker of silken warmth in his chest at his kind words.

“... Thank you, Jing Yuan,” he smiled in return, and for a rather lengthy moment, they shared a gaze between them, Morax eventually being the one to part their stares to return to his position in the grass. The warm sensation was still very present in his chest, veering close to his core and the essence of his power. It was comforting, reassuring, something he felt as though he wanted to take hold of and cradle between his palms. It’d been a very long time since he’d felt something so precious.

“I’ll request a messenger to be sent in the morning, at the earliest to be sure that they’re able to return before dark,” he informed with an unintentional smooth and noticeably deeper tone, almost far too stressless for his own tone to keep its even flow.

“As much as I’d like to say that it’s ‘not something to rush’, I regret that it is… I thank you for your urgency,” the General’s voice spoke up, and only a moment later, the Archon felt a warm brush of fingers against his shoulder again, the warmer palm following before it eased up towards his neck, stopping short of the base of his ear…

“The one thing that you don’t seem to share with the Vidyadhara would be these,” Morax opened his gaze, glancing up and then felt the man's fingers delicately tap the upper corner of his ear, “They have elongated points,” ah, he was speaking of the tall lengthened ears, the ones that stretched akin to the Dendro Archon?

A small smirk slipped past the Geo Archon’s lips, his gaze closing once more to focus. A flicker of Golden light outlined his ears for a brief moment as they began to grow, stretching and elongating as the General had described, and after a moment, the glow disappeared, revealing the taller length. Morax glanced up towards the man, seeing the slightly wider gaze boring down against the alteration. He really appeared stunned by the change.

“There are a few more parts of my being that I have that are hidden. The ears were one of them,” he chuffed softly, feeling the fingers return, but only to lightly touch to examine the changes. Each soft contact sent a slight shiver through his nerves, the Archon lightly gripping the grass beneath his hand to avoid letting a reaction slip.

“... Are you certain you’re not of Vidyadhara heritage…?” the General began, his eyes shifting to stare into his own. It was but another joke, he was sure with the expression the man was giving him.

“I’m quite confident. Had we met before my ascent to the Archon throne, I might have questioned it myself. I’m unaware of any other deity that shares my features entirely,” he admitted simply. While he’d been far younger, he had questioned it a couple of times due to other Adeptus and Gods not having the same style and number of features.

“Hmm… The concept of time travel to retrieve an Earthly Deity to accompany me as the General of Xianzhou Luofu… Quite a compelling goal, I must say,” the General hummed, feigning genuine thought on the matter before the God saw his gaze return to him.

“Care to join me, Morax?” a moment passed before the Archon chuffed some, a smooth chuckle leaving him.

“Not even a full day and you’re requesting my presence aboard your vessel? I’m not so easily swayed, General Jing Yuan,” the sentence itself was spoken through an elated and chuckling tone, Morax having found amusement in the jest. In honesty, he wasn’t sure whether he’d take the offer, but had he not been the Archon, the thought would have likely tugged at his curiosity.

“It appears I’ll need to return to square one, then~,” Morax gradually turned to lie on his back, staring up at the other with a soft ‘Oh~?’ prompting a brighter smile from the man, “More charm and flattery,”

“Misusing such a powerful method,” he tutted with a misleadingly stoic expression, drawing a broader smirk from the General still gazing down at him.

“As a General, I use any method possible to win a battle, as I’m sure you’re aware,” Jing Yuan leaned a tad over him, the mans white hair falling over his shoulder a little more, enough to block the glow from the setting sun, “And to win you, I must play to the best of my abilities,” the man had added with a slightly lower tone.

“I suppose you’ve jumped swiftly to Charm and Flattery as a last resort… being aware that most tactics likely won’t have results,” the Archon played along, never breaking eye contact. The warmth from before, it built slowly, the urge shift beneath that powerful gaze being a strong one.

“With the length of time you’ve been on this plain, I concluded that you’ve lived through every type of tactic possible,” the General’s head tilted some, playing coy with the God below him. Although the perspective was still upside down, it hadn’t detoured anything from the mood, the warmth in him and the incredibly blossomed atmosphere.

“Save for this one,” Morax muttered, having not expected his own voice to be so quiet and deep with his dazzled mind.

It’d not been a full day. They had only a couple more hours before it would be deemed the end. The Archon wasn’t oblivious, yes he had struggles when conversing, much to the Directors keen eye, but he’d been there long enough to know emotion, to understand the ties between individuals. This… he knew this warmth, this stutter the General caused in his mind…

It wasn’t love… but rather… what came before it. The attraction, the ‘want’ to be within the person's vicinity, to be a point of their attention… It almost hurt.

In all Honesty, the thought of not being the Archon… had he been allowed to stay a human, he felt that he really might have considered an offer to join the General had a similar parallel played out with him having not been reinstated…

Yet another path he was unable to tread.

“Are you alright, Morax?” with being addressed, Morax was brought back from his sombre thoughts, his mouth falling open slightly. Such a simple question, with a not so simple answer. The man above him had a somewhat soft frown, as if having seen his internal saddening thought.

“Yes, I’m alright,” the Archon blinked up at him, “Apologies for worrying you. I’m simply feeling some self-pity, I suppose,” he chuffed honestly and a tad bitterly despite the small smile. Morax shook himself of the feelings, hoping to hide them until he was alone to compartmentalise them.

“... Do you have any meetings tomorrow?” at that, the Archon curled a brow at the man, shaking his head. As surprising as it was, he had a day spare after Lady Ningguang had cancelled on him after the first meeting of the day. As guilty as he’d felt at the time, he was sure that she’d taken it to heart despite her strong exterior and had fled to Jade Chamber until the next time.

“I was informed earlier that the only meeting I had was cancelled. I’d planned to wander the Stone Forest, but if you have other thoughts?” If he did, in fact, have a suggestion, he could rise earlier in the morning to send a messenger to Sumeru and then tend to the General's curiosity.

“If possible, as well as venturing along the Stone Forest, might I request to see your favourite part of Liyue? Besides the Harbour, that is,” Morax’s gaze grew at that, gazing up at Jing Yuan with a fraction of that warmth having returned.

“Yes, I… Besides the harbour, I’d say that Mount Aocang is a personal favourite,” he hadn’t needed to think of it, the beautiful mountain had always been at the forefront of the Archons mind for many years with the happy memories he’d shared with the Adepti at its peak.

“I’d like to see why,” the General’s smile returned, Morax finding his breath softening by seeing it.

Notes:

Hi!! ^^ I understand that they're a lil' ooc due to the non-canon connection between them, but I'm trying my best to also make it believable while keeping it slow due to the length of time the two have likely not been with someone. Zhongli is ancient and the last person he was likely as close to as this was Guizhong, who had been his lover. For both him and Jing Yuan, it's probably been a VERY long time.

Next chapter, you can see it's set up thanks to that ending and we'll be getting some NAHIDA SOON!!! LES'GOOOOOOO~.
I'm so hyped.

Also! No need to worry if you see that I miss a day or two, I'm enjoying enjoying this a lot and want to take my time with the upcoming awesome stuff.

Chapter 8

Notes:

Aaaaaaaye, hello~
Another update for you guys! And another sorta sweet and bittersweet!!

The Geo Archon watched in the bright morning light as the messenger and two guards hurried off along the bridge in the direction of Qingxu Pool, the tales of the storyteller already enlightening his ears with his own history behind him, atop his tea house stage. Such an early start, as he’d hoped, to get word to the Dendro Archon. If all played out seamlessly, they’d return a tad before dark and the Archon could lead the General to a meeting.

It’d been a while since Morax had seen her and to receive her heart-warming presence, it’d perk his mood. Though she was only relearning her position, she was still one of his own and vice versa… Her youth would warm him.

The God sighed softly and turned away from the bridge and tea house, starting along the route towards the upper half of Feiyun Slope once more. He reached behind him, drawing his untied hair forward over his shoulder, tucked behind his still pointed ears. In his haste, he’d forgotten to tie his hair after brushing it, so the rattail was very much loose and draped over his shoulder like a waterfall of deep brown. That, and with the interest from Jing Yuan, he hadn’t actually thought to return his ears to their short and curved type… He’d planned to retrieve his Lapis hair tie before meeting up with the General-.

-But from the look of it, the man had other plans.

Morax let a soft smile grace his lips upon seeing that very man in the distance, stood with Madam Ping herself at the very end of the slope, near the stairs that led to the Pharmacy and upper Terrace. An early riser, much like the God, he assumed. Then again, the man was a General, it would be obvious that he rose with the sun due to his position.

The Archon unknowingly quickened his pace, his stride being a tad longer and after a moment, he was climbing the stairs, passing by the two guards that manned them, almost within reach of the two and the shortest between them lifting her gaze.

“Aaaah~, Lord Morax. Good morning to you. A new look?” she smiled, playing coy and the Archon softly chuckled at her very knowing expression. Because of course the woman could see his fondness of the General, regardless that she hadn’t interacted with the two together.

“An unintentional one, I assure you. Good morning,” he greeted warmly, his gaze lifting to the taller man to see the way he… ‘gazed’ at the God, causing a flutter of warmth within his chest. Nothing had changed from the day before in his own appearance, save for the open smile he’d been given and the soft glint in his eye.

“Good Morning, Lord,” the General had greeted, tipping his head forward with a sign of respect, white hair easing over his shoulders despite being tied up much akin to how he’d found him last morning. That warmth refused to dissipate.

“Good morning yourself, Jing Yuan,” Morax returned the slight bow, his softening on the very man upon straightening up. The look he’d received was… mirrored from his own, a caring glint, the want to share their time. Despite his own pitying thoughts from the evening before, he could see that the other shared a similar feeling, wanting to spend time together. Or at least he’d hope it was just that. But the other didn’t seem to hold that saddening thought that the Archon did, that the man had to leave sooner or later.

“As I’m feeling akin to a third wheel-,” the elderly woman's voice spoke up, catching Morax off guard a moment, “-I’ll leave you two to your day! Good morning,” and like a young Vishap, Madam Ping was meandering off as swiftly as she could in her old body, not giving either of the two their moment to reply. Morax blinked, a soft hum leaving him as the two looked on after her, remaining silent for a moment before she’d turned to climb the long set of stairs to the upper platform.

“I believe we ran her off,” the General mused with an entertained air to his tone, having broken the silence first. His sentence drew a soft chuckle from the Archon, his golden gaze returning to the man and meeting the others stare halfway.

“Indeed,” Morax replied, as amused as the other, “I’ll be sure to sit with her once you’ve retired to bed,” he informed simply, the thought of listening to her gentle stories of her short travels, her trivia of the humans she’d passed… It was saddening to say that he hadn’t mused her for so long.

“And here I thought you’d entertain me until dark again,” the General smiled, the words catching his attention again and drawing another chuckle from the God. As much as he’d enjoyed the late evening, onto dark time shared with the man, it’d been a struggle to leave his bed at the earliest. With a slight push from himself, he’d managed to get up and out of bed to send word with the messenger, but even then, the little time he’d managed to sleep over the last few weeks, he preferred his time relaxing. Though spending his time with Jing Yuan, relaxation had been… very welcomed, in his presence-.

Morax was drawn from his thoughts as a hand brushed the bare skin within the diamond cut out of his robe’s upper back, feeling strands of fallen hair being drawn with it and draped over his shoulder once more. The Archon lifted his gaze to the General, having not expected such casual physical contact, and in public.

“I do quite like your hair loose, Lord Morax,” his smooth, low voice warmed him with the preference. The God eyed him, feeling his hair being shifted and watching as the taller man appeared transfixed on the thick strands while he relocated those strays.

“Then I’ll suffer with it being untied for the day,” Morax tilted his head, his hair following with the motion. It’d drawn the General's attention, his brighter yellow eyes lifting to him, a brow quirking with amusement at the statement.

“Oh, how scandalous,” he’d replied swiftly, his tone somewhat betraying him as Morax had heard the elation in his voice. He could have done without tying it for the day, it wasn’t mandatory that he kept it secure and out of his sight. If anything, ‘letting one's hair down’, it might have been considered a way to loosen up, yes? Or was he, again, using a modern phrase wrong…?

Either way, if the General preferred it, what harm could it do? And speaking of the General…

“I’ve sent the messenger to Sumeru. I should hear word by late evening,” Morax informed, gesturing towards the Waypoint to the left at the bottom of the stairs, planning to head to the Stone Forest. He’d explained his day's plans to Ganyu, so if anyone did indeed need him, they had an idea of where he’d be and at which time.

“Thank you again, Lord Morax,” the man… Again, he was gazing at the God, only showing appreciation with that warm smile. The heated flutter in his chest still refused to leave him, even upon thinking of the haste leading to the General’s departure.

“If your world is of the same clock as my own, then the sooner the better to return you to your position, General,” the Archon’s gaze wavered some upon voicing it. He was aware that the man had to return, and had to be with his own again. The General did not belong to his world.

There was a lingering moment of silence, it being a tad evident that the God's reaction was likely far too telling for the General’s observational sharpness… He hadn’t meant to let any of it slip, though the late evening before made it that much more evident that he cared.. Too much and too fast for the Archon to catch himself.

The warm brush of fingers and then palms pressed to his shoulders, Morax’s eyes closing at the contact and the feel of the man’s body being a fraction closer… 

“... To the Stone Forest?” the General’s soft mutter reached him, the Archon opening his gaze once more to share a look before nodding. As fast as the hands appeared, they were gone, leaving his skin fluttering with the previous warmth before he turned away and headed for the Waypoint, stopping short with the man beside him.

Reaching out a hand and feeling one rest on his shoulder for the transport, he placed his palm against the device, feeling a swift rush churn him and his companion. Only mere seconds passed before feeling the breeze of salty air wash around him, the taste of sand in the air. A single glance of his surroundings informed him that they were at the North West of the main Isle of the Stone Forest, a small and safe spot to regard the tall walls of earth.

“... Morax?” the gentle and deep voice called to him, the hand on his shoulder shifting to his upper arm. He’d glanced at the other, eyeing the soft and saddened features, a look the other really shouldn’t have had. It did not suit him…

“Apologies. I appear to have been lingering on the thought of your departure far too soon,” the Archon let a bitter smile grace his features with his honesty. He’d never done well with Goodbyes and anticipating it had been plaguing him. Every goodbye since the War had been a permanent one, through passing, through Erosion, through age and illness and through sacrifice… This one felt different, but in a sense, one that he wouldn’t meet again and that-.

Morax shook his head with a soft frown, wanting to rid himself of his depressing thoughts, they were far too angst driven.

“Already thinking of me taking my leave and yet we’ve no answers on whether I’m even able?” there was a slight amusement to his tone, though ultimately, he was playing coy, taking it somewhat seriously but with a hint of ‘play’ there to keep the mood up. Which he appreciated.

“Don’t give me hope, Jing Yuan,” Morax hummed quietly, slowly lifting his gaze to the other. The soft expression he was receiving told him much, an attempt of hiding his own thoughts of it. The Archon though, he’d gotten a feel of this man and could assume that he at least wanted to focus on their time rather than the moping that Morax couldn’t help but feel… Too much loss from erosion, war, age, sacrifice… Too many faces of friends and loved ones to recall…

“... It appears you’re more fond of me than I initially anticipated,” the Archon froze, gaze widening as he was brought back to the moment. Registering the sentence that had left the mans’ lips, Morax felt his face heat, the burning beneath his eyes where his cheeks rapidly warmed. A soft frown returned, much like a pout, and he swiftly glanced away, only for a firm thumb and finger to hook his chin and draw him back to lock their stares.

“Your fluster is quite captivating,” his tone deepened slightly and the Archon felt his face heat up that much more, his gaze becoming a tad glossy with the reaction to being so… openly touched and intimate? The man appeared to be more than a simple tease!

“... You’re making it quite impossible to aid you in leaving…” he comically pouted up at the man with his frown, the two staring at one another for quite some time with one smirking and the other pouting.

There was a beat of silence before the taller of the two switched his smirk with a softer, more reassuring and comforting smile, the General shifting closer. To Morax’s curious stare, it faltered upon their foreheads brushing, Jing Yuan’s pressing lightly to his own without a word. The Archon… stayed silent, his eyes closing akin to the General’s to simply feel the comfort of the others presence.

—--

The elderly old man shook his hands, feeling the ache of age having set in long ago. Despite this, he had work to do and with the dry season, what a better way to spend it than tending to his land that he shared with his loved one?

His sons had moved on, carving out their own lives, leaving him to cherish the home they grew up in-.

“Must I tell you again!” he’d heard his wife call from inside, well aware that he was planning to tend to the roof despite his age. She usually caught him doing something that he was far too aged for, but did that stop him? …… Sometimes. He chuckled softly, adoring her for her attitude towards him, a spitfire, he must say..

With the hope of getting the roof retiled before she could stop him, he eased the ladder from beside his shed, pausing to admire the Statue of the Seven across from his humble home… though… what he saw was very… peculiar…

Setting the ladder down carefully, the elder meandered his way across the path towards the small… child? He slowed to a stop just short of her and glanced up at the exquisite portrayal of their beloved archon.

“A beautiful representation, is it not?” he’d started, attempting to prompt a conversation. He returned his gaze to her, watching as she’d glanced up at him, mint green eyes with a yellow base staring up at him with clear curiosity. Overall, she appeared… very unique and childlike, adorning many features that he’d seen of late with their very own Archon.

Her tall horns protruding from her skull angled upwards, her long, elegant tail, both of which were a light purple shade with a large tuft of fur at the tip of her tail, said tail being adorned with a golden ornament. From recent news, Rex Lapis even shared the tall ears, pointed.

For clothing, he’d never seen anything quite like it, giving him the impression that maybe the young girl was foreign.

She wore a sleeveless black loose sweatshirt with a turtleneck, sleeveless white short coat, but light indigo at the top, with a white long collar, a dark indigo at the bottom. Trailing behind were two dark indigo coattails that were a little lighter inside and had carp scale patterns along the inside, sea waves at the back and at the base with a gold and darker shade of indigo. Akin to the coattails, a carp scale pattern followed the top of separate bell white sleeves, her right sleeve having a little tuft of fur around it at the top. Lastly was the footwear, black shoes with white and golden tips.

From simply taking in the details, he could gather that she was not of Liyuian culture.

“Hey, Mr. Who’s that? He looks important,” the young girl gestured to the statue, and to say that he was very bewildered was an understatement.

Notes:

A lil' surprise at the end there~. Ya'll can guess who it is, right?????
Very much hoping that I timed this right and that I don't mess up with the next couple of chapters!! Bare with me!!!

Also yeeeeees, another very sweet interaction with Jing Yuan comforting Zhongli. You can see that Zhongli would struggle just thinking about it and being burned out, it's that much more evident.

And "loose hair Zhongli" is a BEAUTY!!
More sweet stuff to come, don't worry.

Chapter 9

Notes:

ANOTHER CHAPTER!! This one was so much fun!!!

“So you guys have a powerful God,” Bailu muttered against the rim of her cup, sipping the tea as the two elderly people stared at her from time to time. Apparently, not knowing the people on the statues was really odd or impossible or something. She was the weird one in this scenario, she supposed.

“One that walks amongst us, yes,” the woman smiled warmly, seeming pretty fond of the guy that sat in his rocky chair holding a cube stone thing. Maybe it was because he was barely wearing anything other than some blanket to cover some of him.

“Rex Lapis only recently began walking with us, though he tends to stick to Liyue harbour rather than venture as far as Dihua Marsh without being requested,” the older guy mentioned after the lady and Bailu could understand it. Sticking to the place you’ve worked the most could end up being your main spot, so maybe it was the same for him, the God guy… Maybe… ‘he’ could help her? At least attempt to point her in the right direction to find the General. It was her fault he was even there in the first place.

“So… which way is the harbour?” she asked simply as she set her cup down, kicking her legs a little on the stool. The two shared a look, giving her the impression that they were hesitant. Were they underestimating her? She could make it, even if it was far. She just needed directions…

“We… wouldn’t be able to travel with you, young one, we’re too old. But I’m sure the Yaksha that resides in Wangshu Inn can help you,” the older lady mentioned with a warm smile. The small Vidyadhara eyed her, having not actually planned to ask either of them to take her themselves. She could see that their bodies weren’t accustomed to travel anymore with their age, “How urgent is it? Would you like something to eat before you le-,”

“No no, it’s fine. The cup’a tea was more than enough. I really need to see him, I’m looking for someone!” she smiled, bowing a little with respect. The sooner she left, the better. At least it would get her there faster, but…

“What’s a Yaksha?” she lifted her head with a quirked brow, eyeing the two curiously. What she got in return was two stunned stares, clearly having not come to the conclusion that she wasn’t actually from there just yet, and she couldn’t exactly spell it out for them since she wasn’t sure where she was to begin with.

“The Geo Archon’s General. The Vigilant Yaksha, the Conqueror of Demons. He’s a powerful Adeptus and sadly, the only one left of the Yaksha,” the old man replied, slowly climbing to his feet and meandering over to the door to grab a… ah-, a walking stick. Was he planning to lead her?

“So he’d know exactly where your God is!” she concluded and shimmied off of her stool before walking over to the open door, watching as the old man stepped aside for her to step out first.

“Are you sure you wouldn’t want a meal for the road, young miss?” the woman followed them to the door, Bailu turning and staring up so that she could see her and again, the warm smile was there, as if humouring a child. Granted, the young dragon looked like one, so she wouldn’t blame her for it.

“No, I’ll be alright, thank you,” she nodded respectfully and continued after the old guy as he’d started walking on ahead down the path, passing by that big statue again with the half naked guy sitting on his stone throne.

“If you can point me in the direction, I can go from there,” she informed bluntly, seeing a very tall tree building way down the path. It was really amazing, so big, towering over the golden landscape. Honestly, the most she’d seen so far was only the bridge, this Marsh and the statue up close. It was beautiful, but seeing something that big? It was awe inspiring.

“I wouldn’t mind taking you, but if you’re certain, young one… There,” he gestured to the very tall building that she’d started gawking at, “Wangshu Inn. Take the elevator to the top and ask the young lady at the desk for the Yaksha, ask for Xiao. He’ll surely be able to help as it’s Rex Lapis that you’re searching for,” the elder added, staying put.

She eyed him and then the building again, steeling her resolve. She’d only need to find this Yaksha man and ask him where the God happened to be.

“Thank you for your hospitality and help!” she smiled, already starting to walk while giving the two a wave. As small as her legs were, even she’d admit that it might take a little bit to get there and it was already late by the time she’d left. She’d appeared there early in the morning but had lingered with the couple. It was already past midday!

—--

As many of the Waypoints that Jing Yuan had seen, this was by far the most awkwardly placed portation point out of the handful that he had the chance to see. It was on the edge of the mountain, on the other side of the location that the Archon had wanted to show him and yet Morax appeared to climb above with ease, no step wasted, no wavering in his balance or posture, as graceful as ever.

And here was the General, following as best he could in the others steps, but evidently had to use the wall and crooked mountain side branch for stability. With some struggle, he’d managed to reach the top after the other, easing his legs over the other side to see the precariously positioned stones that the Archon stepped over and down as if this were a simple jaunt. Granted, the other being was very used to his mountain terrain.

“Out of curiosity, did you create this mountain? If so, you’ve made them a trial for the ones not accustomed to your lands,” Jing Yuan jested with a chuckle as he lowered himself to the stone curve below him, finding the grip a tad awkward with the angle.

“As amusing as it would be to have purposely devised this as a struggle, I’ll have to correct the assumption. I did not shape these mountains myself. The War shaped the lands and my nation had been regularly fought after. It resulted in the state you see it, through battle,” the Archon replied, sauntering closer and had extended a hand, offering his aid. From the expression, he could see that he was finding the situation entertaining.

“You could have fooled me, my friend,” Jing Yuan smiled with his own amusement, reaching out his own and catching hold of the firm grip in return. He lowered to the next step, sidestepping to the other and then stepped down onto the last. Only it wasn’t as stable as it’d appeared-.

He felt the grip of his heel catch, throwing his balance and he’d fallen forward, cheating thumping against Morax and sending them both to the floor, the Archon being the first to hit the ground with the General landing atop him with a shared gasp and grunt upon impact.

Jing Yuan groaned softly, the sound being muffled against the others robed chest. After a moment, he felt the tender vibration below his face, the General lifting himself with a slight huff to see that the other had been attempting to hold off some laughter, a hand covering his mouth with his head tilted away a touch. He gazed, awed by the reaction and gradually lifted himself further to sit against his heels with his knees apart.

“Apologies, apologies,” the Archon waved his free hand while the General sat between the Archon’s legs, the thick, smooth tail resting between Jing Yuan’s legs and curved around the man's shoe… He could feel it swaying behind him, almost akin to wagging. He had to fight the urge to compare him to a canine.

“Do my fumbles amuse you?” the General smirked, decidedly playing with the moment, a rare sight having been given to him on a golden platter as far as he’d been concerned.

“No no!” regardless of the reply, the other still appeared to be fighting to stop his reaction. Jing Yuan watched, gazed, and smiled at the God, feeling his own endorphins being boosted by such a perspective he’d been given.

Gradually, the General shifted forward, leaning over the other with a hand being pressed to the thick grass beside the Archon's head, being careful with his stray hair. The other hand was hooked over the one covering the God's mouth and drew it aside, reaching to cup his jaw and cheek only a second later. All of which seemed to catch the others attention as the laughter had indeed halted in favour of the growing mood.

His gaze caught Morax’s, Golden eyes widening a fraction, thrumming caramel pools locked with his own. As much as he was aware that their time was limited depending on the Dendro Archon’s word, his selfishness had overcome his resolve when regarding this Deity. The beating heat in his chest, the stutter he felt when watching the other. Long had it been since he’d felt any sensation like it.

Though it had only been a day and a half, at most, his attention had been captured, his jested offering becoming less of a joke fraction by fraction the longer he was in this being's presence…

For Jing Yuan, it felt as though time had paused for them, his gaze growing softer and more clouded as he’d slowly lowered, inch by inch. Below him, he could feel the slight stutter in the others breathing while chest to chest…

The moment their lips touched, he felt the both of them hold their breath, the Archon having inhaled sharply, tense for only a moment before relaxing slowly, his hands at his chest and holding tight to his uniform. He’d warmed up to him, the General feeling the other pressing up against Jing Yuan’s actions, his lips shifting with his, his chest being arched up slightly, the ease in his breathing, all mirrored by his own kissing, shifting and affection within the intimacy.

Soft kiss after kiss after kiss, and the Archon was the first to hesitantly give him a last gentle peck before pressing his forehead to the General’s with his gaze closed, panting tenderly to process the whirlwind of the last moment.

“... You’re breath-taking,” Jing Yuan muttered softly against his lips, feeling the warm puff of breathing against his own. He gazed, awed by the other, watching as his lids parted to show the deeper diamond pattern, dilated and glossy.

“Says the one that stole mine,” the Archon replied softly, very much affected, and the General proceeded to steal another soft peck… and then another. A gentle sigh left the God after another stolen kiss, Jing Yuan feeling the Geo patterned hand reaching over his shoulder to catch the back of his neck, easing him into another kiss that Morax had control over for the moment it lasted.

And… with that kiss being parted, there was a prompted pat to his shoulder, the General being aware of its meaning and had pushed himself to sit back, watching as the other made to stand and he’d followed.

“As I’ve stated, you’re making it quite impossible to want to aid towards your departure, Jing Yuan,” the God sighed and patted himself down, brushing off the earth from his robes. The General himself knew very well that he had been making it that much harder, his selfishness of the Archon had been… growing. While Morax had been open, at least to him, Jing Yuan had done well to hide his own deflation at the thought of parting from the Deity.

“I apologise, Morax… it appears I have less strength to restrain myself,” the man reached out, drawing the other closer again by the back of his neck to press their foreheads once more, only for a short guilt driven moment, one that the Archon appeared to understand as the being’s hand lifted to rest against his wrist.

“No… you’re making memories, regardless of the result,” at Morax’s words, a soft breath left him, the General being about to reply, but paused, feeling lips against his own in a soft peck before the Archon parted from him and turned away, heading towards the… beautiful scene ahead of him… The God being a part of it swiftly.

A gorgeous Fall shaded tree was set firmly in the middle of the mountain, surrounded by a massive pool of transparent water, adorned with the life of nature, the after midday sun bearing down on it. The table of stone and stools of rock were shaded beneath it, covered in the Fall leaves. The Archon…being an addition with his beauty and loose hair being drawn by the light breeze, it was as graceful and elegant as a masterful painting, fit to be framed and forever portrayed in his mind.

Only a moment of lingering later and he began to follow, treading the path the Archon took towards the table. He slowed upon reaching the area, stopping short of the table. To his surprise, he saw words, sentences carved into the stone, named written firmly. Cloud Retainer, Rex Lapis and Guizhong, names motioning to the seats. The Archon stood ahead of one that wasn’t his own for a brief moment, turning away from it to motion for the General to take a seat on his own.

The moment he saw the gesture, it felt… forbidden, that he wasn’t meant to be there, to be offered a stone stool. The space was personal, intimate, not meant for anyone save for the names carved into the stone.

Jing Yuan took a breath and stepped forward, so very hesitant to take a seat and the moment he was sitting, it felt… wrong.

From behind him, he could feel the Gods chest against him, the General relaxing back against the strong frame of Morax and feeling his hands brush over his shoulders. The perch gave him such a strong perspective, such a personal one, one that indeed gave him quite a heart-breaking scene. On the table… there was only one teapot and cup, the cup being ahead of the General with no extra being in front of the two other seats. The Archon was alone when he travelled to this spot, and was alone still whilst sharing his time with his… memories.

It was painful to imagine.

“Before the War for the title of Archon, I once shared wine and tea with Guizhong and Cloud Retainer… the former of which Co-ruled with me,” the fact that it was so… past tense, the tone he’d spoken with…

“I return to this spot and sit, reminding myself of the times I shared with my friends and loved ones. They were vast in number, the amusement, the trivia, the warmth and sadness, and yes, the gossip… Before I began sharing this table with the two, I was quite… boisterous and maybe a tad chaotic. Guizhong was the one that influenced my demeanour. She’d given me much to think about and in turn, I became a blather of trivia and had preferred gathering my knowledge. Cloud Retainer added to the trivia as she’s as fascinated by humans and our culture as I’d been… Guizhong had been slain at the earliest portion of the War. Cloud Retainer had fled from the mountains upon the results of Osial’s attack recently,”

…The General could feel the ache in his voice, despite attempting to keep himself steady behind him. There wasn’t just the ache though, he could sense the fondness, the memories bringing him some content and comfort. Despite his own loss, he couldn’t imagine the number of loss that Morax felt within his thousands of years. And yet he still came to a spot that forced him to remember…

Jing Yuan slowly lifted his hands to the ones that had draped further over his shoulders, resting them above his fingers only to be held in return.

“This space is my Respite, the one spot that I don’t feel like I’m having to force myself…” he felt the hands slip further over his shoulders, almost holding the General.

“You give me that same feeling, that I don’t need to force a façade… I thank you greatly for it,”

Notes:

Mwahahaha! Some kisses and soft sweetness!!

And yes, you have a sort of reason as to why the General's there and why Bailu is now there!! Xiao is also going to be involved, because the awesome edgy guy needs screentime.
Also very sad and happy that I brought up Guizhong. I'm very aware that in the past, she and Zhongli were an item and I feel that Zhongli is still feeling that loss, but I can imagine that in all that time, it's still hard for him, so he uses that table to remember the loss, but remember all the positive times he shared with them. And now he's sharing it with another that he feels like he's going to lose when Jing Yuan has to leave.
Another memory to add to his limitless life.

Chapter 10

Notes:

Finally got the chance to get to another chapter!! I love this one so much xD

Despite the easy to follow instructions and her resolve to try and find the General… she’d gotten distracted. She’d spent quite some time chasing after this strange little fox weasel creature that had a bag, and no, she wasn’t joking. The little thing carried a bag and had been glowing gold! When she’d managed to catch it, the thing struggled and actually poofed into coins, a LOT of coins! She could only assume that it was the currency, but that had been such a bizarre thing to happen! This world was weird.

Bailu, had eventually, gotten back on track and had made her way to the Inn, meandering her way over to what she thought was the elevator that was described and was taken up to the top floor, the lift stopping at the side of the building. She stepped out, eyeing her surroundings as she continued on and saw the entrance to what appeared to be the store that the elderly man had mentioned.

Not wanting to waste anymore time, she darted into the building and reached up to the counter, lifting herself as much as she could to see the lady smiling on the other side, maybe a little taken aback when the dragon popped her head up.

“Miss store lady! I need help! Does a Xiao named Yaksha live here?” she asked in a rush, trying to stay on her tiptoes. A very confused expression passed across the woman's face, a tilt to her head before a sheepish chuckle left her.

“You-... you mean a Yaksha named Xiao?” she corrected, the amusement clear in her voice. It took a few seconds to catch the way it was said and Bailu nodded swiftly.

“Yeah! That one!” she patted the counter, “I need his help to find someone, but I don’t know where he is! Can he help me? Is he here?” she hopped a little, a tad disgruntled that the counters were just taller than eye height. She could just barely see the woman and the- Cat! There was a cat!

“Unfortunately, he’s rarely ever here during midday. You’d have better luck in the evening,” that wasn’t great news. She deflated some, dropping to her heels with a small sigh, her tail curling up behind her at the news. She wasn’t ignorant enough to think that she wouldn’t have needed the help. The fact that the ‘harbour’ was likely very far from what the elderly couple had said.

“Can I wait for him? I really need him!” Bailu called over the counter, pulling herself up to peek over at the woman again to see the slightly warmer smile on her lips. She probably thought she was dealing with some random kid wearing a costume.

“Are… you sure you’d want to wait that long?” the lady hesitated and seemingly stepped forward, making it easier for the Vidyadhara to see her without struggling against the table height.

“Yes!” she beamed, her tail beginning to wag a tad behind her, almost bouncing on her feet. Even if the Yaksha wasn’t there at the time, he would be at some point and that was more promising to have better results than her just wandering off into nature following a path. She wasn’t dumb.

“Alright. Um… He tends to occupy the balcony,” Bailu followed the woman's arm as she’d gestured across the lobby looking space, her gaze lifting to the stairs that led up,  “I’d suggest waiting up there,” a small, narrow set of stairs, easy for her to climb. Her smile broadened.

“Okay! Thank you, miss store lady!” the young dragon swiftly waved and darted for the stairs. She climbed them expertly, that is to say she took them step by step due to how much space was between each level.

—--

Morax hadn’t… initially thought he’d revisit his memories and share them, let alone be allowed to blather on for so long without being stopped by the General. The man had given him much time to speak of his friends, to speak of such a personal part of him before his Archonship, to explain his own life before the Reform of Liyue… before all the loss, but rather… when he was young, his prime before power, his laugh and love before loyalty to the Celestia, his wealth of heart before his wealth of weight bearing down on him.

From what the Archon had felt, seen and heard from the other, Jing Yuan simply… listened, had been solely focused on him and his words, no indication that he’d planned to stop him and had allowed him his peace to share his fondness and care for his life before the brutality of war struck him, before he’d been seen as a Warlord, a power driven death-bringer to others during the centuries of battle.

The General had even smiled some when the God had spoken so warmly and fondly of his close friends, before, during and after the war. Even the other Archon upon the ends coming. Even to his own ears, he’d heard the elation in speaking of the Adepti, of his beloved Yaksha, the Cranes, the Mountain Stag.

The memories were a lullaby to the Archon, a soft hymn of his happier past. The regret in lasting so long as the nation's God was… very likely evident.

But even as they’d moved from the historical spot to relax on the Northern end of Mt. Aocang, the man still remained silent. To not disrupt the calm? The flow of emotion? The softly graced smile that stayed even after his fond descriptions of what once was his own daily life? It was beyond him to assume.

Morax eyed the glow of the sun against the mountains, the casted shadows stretching ever so slightly with every moment of the day that passed them by. The beauty was unparalleled to the Archon, the lush land he’d called home for so very long. It was an earthy paradise to the Lord of Geo. But then… What was a Paradise to the General? His homeland. With the time they’d shared, Morax had been the one voicing facts and trivia, explaining memories of the past and present…

Where did the man reside before his portation to Liyue?

“Jing Yuan…” the God lifted his gaze, hearing a soft hum from the man before his bright sunlit eyes turned to him. He’d been enjoying the moment, taking pleasure in the setting, the mood. And he couldn’t help but watch him in the glow of their surroundings… That kiss had thrown him into such a warm and soft state. Yes, it’d been a few hours prior, but that mood was still very present from where he was shoulder to shoulder, sitting in the grass against a stone wall.

“What is it, Morax?” his smooth, deep velvety voice spoke up in question, the man's attention fixed on him. The mood, the warmth, the content comfort between them… He paused very briefly upon feeling the brush of fingers against his arm, so delicately soft.

“Would you be willing to speak of the Xianzhou Luofu?” the God requested, watching the other and seeing the growth of interest and curiosity in the man's fixed gaze.
“I’ve realised that you’ve allowed me to explain the mechanics of my own nation while I only know the name of yours,” he’d explained further, shifting his free hand over to his arm to cover the softly brushing fingers.

“Aaaaah yes,” the amusement in his tone, the light chuckle, “With the interest I’ve shared in your nation and its Monarch, I felt it best to wait until I was aware of my surroundings before sharing my own worlds appeal,” Morax tilted his head and lifted a leg to shift with the General, the man turning to face him with a leg then arched over the Archon, giving him his full attention.

“As impossible as it may sound, the Xianzhou Luofu is a vast, enormous Flagship, one of Six and it’s the one I oversee as the General,” he’d begun rather simply, but the thought that came to mind was bewildering. A flagship was a vessel that carried items or individuals of great importance, and in this case, that would have been the General himself, yes?
“It doesn’t travel through the waves as the ships of your nation do, but rather, it sails through the ocean of stars. Our goal is to strike down our enemies, it’s why we sail the space between worlds,”

Morax hung on his words, struck with surprise upon imagining a Great ship meandering through the dark abyss above the clouds.

“While we appear to share a similar culture, there are great differences in locational appearance and the level of technology and historical importance. There’s a dramatic advancement in the technology department compared to your nation. Holographic screens, for instance,” surely, to the General’s expectation, Morax had tilted his head with his confusion of those words.
“No need to concern yourself if you don’t understand. I’ll try my best to explain,” the man chuckled, the Archon sighing softly. Admittedly, he did find it… dejecting when he came across something he had little to no knowledge of…

“Let’s begin with… Central Starskiff Haven,” the General smiled softly, “I believe it’s considered a docking point. Small vessels called Starskiffs use it to arrive and depart. It’s a location that varies between transporting goods, seekers of healing methods, ones that wish to gain knowledge and even traders. It’s a space that aids many. The location is quite packed at times due to the vast number of shops,” that alone had tugged at the Gods interest. It sounded quite similar to the Harbour, a point of trading, selling, buying, a liveable space where one could work with incoming and outgoing resources.

“With a few places in mind, I believe the Exalted Sanctum is my ideal location,” the man muttered, resting his jaw against his hand, “It’s quite beautiful. At the edge of the Sanctum is a garden enclosure, very well tended to and is ideal for peace, be it alone or with some you care for. It’s also an area between the Realm-Keeping Commission's branch office and my own Office. I’m quite fortunate to get to see the gardens almost daily,“ the white haired man seemed to fall silent for a brief moment, only to chuckle.

“You find it humorous?” Morax quirked a brow at the reaction, uncertain of what he appeared to find amusing. The God had… been transfixed, gazing, listening so intently while trying to picture such a beauty.

“No no, not that,” Jing Yuan waved a free hand to deny, a moment later, he returned his gaze to meet the Archon’s own, “… I simply believe that you would be quite fond of it. The knowledge at your fingertips, the dazzling grace and elegance of the garden… Picturing you standing in that very garden would increase the level of beauty…” the man trailed off, the warmth of his gaze returning as it had prior to their earlier intimacy.

Morax… could feel the heat radiating in his chest again, rising slowly to his face at what the man must have been imagining at the time, with the way he was watching the Archon so attentively with his bright sunlit eyes.

“... Your prowess in Charm and Flattery continues to astonish me, Jing Yuan,” the Archon replied with a very affected tone. Deeper, slower, more… smoothness, akin to the softest silks that Liyue had to offer. The man was under his skin, giving him hope, giving him peace at heart. It almost made him hope that the General would attempt once more with trueness to his words to have the Archon join him upon his return to his Flagship. Once more… With effort, with honesty, with the truth to his tone that he’d want Morax with him.

But the God knew their positions. He didn’t wish to dwell. Memories were cherishable enough for him, as they had always been in his life. Regardless of if he’d managed to leave, Morax would have these few memories.

“You’re moping again,” at that, Morax was drawn back to the moment, blinking at his words in an attempt to register. It had only taken a moment before a soft, small sigh left him.

“I don’t ‘mope’, General. I brood. There’s a vast difference-,” the Archon had just partially glanced away with the sentence being said, but the moment he had, there was a hand catching his jaw, angling him back to the other and much closer, to the point that the God could feel the brush of his hair against his face. Gold eyes were forced to meet an even lighter shade.

Silence… Jing Yuan had said nothing, regardless of forcing their eyes to lock. But his gaze spoke more than words with the open adoration, the affection, peace, the pooling warmth of… ‘want’... Morax was the one to lean in, pressing their foreheads with a soft breath, his eyes closing, and the General returned the gesture.

—--

The young dragon's feet kicked back and forth over the edge of the sturdy fence of the balcony, half asleep from the events a day earlier and the walking and talking. She hadn’t slept well after her mistake, despite hoping to right the wrong the next day after getting her power back. Even Bailu had no idea that she had some sort of porting ability. She’d shocked Dan Heng, that was for sure. And though she found his freak out pretty funny, it wasn’t all that amusing when she saw that the General was ‘gone’ gone, that he wasn’t on the Luofu. The Diviner had confirmed that he was gone and she’d still been trying to find him while Dan Heng instructed the younger serpent in trying again to bring him back. It only served to show her that she could create a sort of… Door-.

The sound of sharply slashed wind rushed past, cutting through her thoughts, sending a massive shock through her system with a loud “WHA!”. She felt herself falling forward, but not by much as something caught the back of her clothes. She hadn’t slipped far at all, but the drop below her was… terrifying…

“Pull me up! Pull me uuuup!” she struggled, kicking and trying to turn around, though it didn’t help her at all. Whoever had her by the collar, though, was nice enough to draw her back over the railing before gracelessly dropping her to her butt on the balcony floor with an ‘oomph!’.

“Not cool!” she’d whined, reaching behind to rub the space beneath her tail where it ached from the short drop.

“Who are you and why are you here,” the gritty, harsh tone came across pretty well and Bailu glanced up over her shoulder to see some grumpy looking kid scowling down at her, his arms crossed defensively, brattily, over his chest.

His hair was dark, medium-length with teal undertones framing very pale skin, though the contrast did not take away from the striking golden irises with avian pupils. There was also that little bit of red eyeshadow, but that only made his eyes pop that much more. Above his eyes, just barely visible from her angle, was a purple diamond marking on his forehead and… with some shock, she saw the green tattoo around his right arm.

A tattoo? At that age? He must have had very neglectful parents.

His clothes weren’t that much better. Very edgy… He wore a white sleeveless shirt with subtle cloud patterns. It had a high black collar with golden accents, its left side extending further to cover his shoulder, though it didn’t. Rather, his shoulder was covered with an odd purple pattern, horns sticking out of it. Below that, he wore a white and gold sleeve with a red lining.

Disregarding the odd shoulder for a moment, a brief glance lower, he wore  baggy dark purple pants, and dark purple boots overtop, the base of his pants tucked into them. Along with the rest of his odd appearance, he had black and dark turquoise gloves with gold decals and a necklace and… in one glove was a very interestingly designed bauble with a bright teal green hue, some… wings? gleaming in the middle.

“I’ve been waiting forever! Are you Xiao?” she asked instead of answering his own questions.

Notes:

Some more sweet fluffy moments!! And Jing Yuan getting to talk about the Xianzhou a lil' bit! And even think of Zhongli being there in the garden, making it that much more gorgeous!

Also!! Sorry if it seems like the pacing is weird. I saw that a few of you hadn't expected a kiss in that last chapter! I sorta went with the mood and I figure that Jing Yuan isn't really the type to miss chances like that when he knows that the other person would like it too. He wants sweet memories since he knows he'll likely end up back home and that Morax likely can't leave due to his own position.

AND WE HAVE XIAO NOW!! Lesssss goooooooooo!! I love Xiao so much. An absolute dream!
I need to finish my short Xiao+Gaming thing. It's only 1/1, but it's soft and sweet and could be taken as just a friendship thing OR a start to something sweeter.
I also have thoughts for a Wriothesley/Neuvillette thing and started it in the background.

Chapter 11

Notes:

Coming back at you with another piece of funny+sweet stuff!!
I'm genuinely a puddle for this pairing.

The Yaksha stared, his gaze never leaving the strange draconic being sat at the table shy of the kitchen where Yanxiao was still hard at work cleaning his utensils for the day after. According to the girl, she’d been sitting there for a while, a handful of hours of patience awaiting his return from the mountains. The Boss of the Inn, Verr Goldet, had corroborated the claim as the young being had requested it.

Xiao watched as she’d scarfed down another skewer of tiger fish out of the several Yanxiao had prepared beforehand. Her features concerned him, they’d caught his attention immediately upon examining from a distance. The horns, the tail, the odd power radiating from her. He’d assumed that she was an Adeptus with what he’d gathered, but he knew of no other that had the features of Rex Lapis, let alone of another with his features and a different element within the confines of Liyue. While setting aside the mark he felt of her power, were she an Adeptus, she’d have to be very new, as in… within a day or two, at most. 

But then… with her power… Xiao prided himself on his vigilance and he was very aware that she could not be an Adeptus. His own kind, Rex Lapis included, had a tell, there was a fine similarity of feeling within their abilities, within their beings… she did not have it.

“So goooooood~,” Xiao quirked a brow, witnessing the mess on her face and proceeded to grimace some, staring once more before sighing and requesting his Lord give him patience.

“Why were you looking for me,” he grumbled, reaching out to shove the table tissues closer to the girl, hoping she picked up on his blunt hint, though apparently not as she simply turned towards him.

“I need to find a guy named Rex Lapis!” she beamed, scooting closer. The Yaksha immediately gave her a harsh stare, one that didn’t seem to bother her in the slightest.

“Rex Lapis is the Archon, the Ruler and Sovereign of the Nation. Not ‘some guy’,” he growled, his hackles high from the terribly informal mention of his creator. He scoffed haughtily and glanced away, his crossed arms tightening over his chest. The Archon had dealt with enough, he didn’t need the informality from strangers, regardless whether they were in his presence or not. Fortunately, Rex Lapis wasn’t there to hear such slander, such lack of respect.

“Yeah! Him! I need to see him! I need his help with something!” clearly she wasn’t aware that Rulers had little to not time. Granted, his Lord had been spending more and more time with that odd stranger, General Jing Yuan, from what he’d heard… He didn’t need the wind to inform him when he’d lurked for a short time to be sure that he was safe for his Lord to accompany at times.

“He’s busy,” Xiao deadpanned, seeing the young being deflate in mood and just stared at him, blinking. Apparently, he was to elaborate, if that expression said as much. He sighed, returning a reluctant, exasperated look that seemed to catch her attention. A soft, amused snort left her before she climbed to her feet on the stool, as if to gain height over him to intimidate. She was sorely mistaken if she thought her height would force a reaction. He’d fought beings thrice her size on a daily basis.

“Where is he? I need him!” she requested an answer firmly, her hands resting on her hips. She did in fact waver though, when she gained nothing but a dead stare from him. He wasn’t one to buckle so easily to give her the whereabouts, not for the moment in time if he did humour her. He wouldn’t dare have his part in interrupting any time Rex Lapis shared with someone or something that gave him peace from strenuous stresses of the day. Regardless of his distaste that a stranger had managed to capture his Lord, so long as he meant no harm, Xiao would protect the Archon from any attempt to tear him from his calm comforts..

“You’ll be waiting a while then. He’s away from the Harbour currently and he’ll be venturing to another nation in the morn, to return by the evening. You’ll have to wait until tomorrow night, at the least,” he replied flatly and moved to stand… being of height with her while she stood on the chair. He shrugged the comparison off immediately and turned away.

“Tomorrow night is too long! What about tonight? It’s not dark yet! He has time before bed right?!” with the thump behind him and the sound of rushing steps following him to his balcony, it was clear that she wouldn’t leave him be. He needed an excuse to avoid reaching out to his master.

“The walk to Liyue harbour takes a while. It’ll be dark before we get there with the current daylight we have left,” if she referred to the Waypoints, he could inform her that he refused to use the travel method as he had his own, but then couldn’t carry another, regardless of stature… He wasn’t the best with falsities.

“What about in the morning? We can start at dawn! If it takes that long to get there, we could be there by the time he comes back, right?!”” her voice was grating… Xiao stopped, standing in the centre of the balcony with his arms still crossed over his chest, a soft frown reaching his features once more at her persistence. His gaze snapped to his side upon the loose fabric of his sleeve being tugged, seeing the slightly anxious expression. Was this quest that important to a child?

The Yaksha stared down at the girl, thinking it over before sighing deeply and glancing away with a grumble of annoyance. Whatever her goal was, it was clear that it was at least urgent to her, so much so that she was becoming panicked over it. It was none of his business, so he wouldn’t ask.

“... You’ll have breakfast, and then we’ll travel to the harbour. Regardless of whether Rex Lapis is there upon arrival, I’ll hand you off to a shared acquaintance. She’ll be of more aid to you as she works directly below the Archon as his assistant-! Hey!” Xiao had almost buckled as he felt a sudden attack, his gaze snapping towards her again to see that she’d resorted to constriction of his leg and waist, wrapped around the limb and his midsection tightly with a… smile. She was hugging him…

“... Let go,” he grumped flatly, the girl having not heard him.

—--

The two had spent the remainder of their day on the mountain with Morax inquiring much of the Xianzhou Luofu. The concept had been incredible and the interest, overflowing. To learn that there was so much difference between their lands, the level of technology and machinery. The General had shown him a small device, a narrow box with a black abyss in the centre. A ‘cell phone’ he’d called it, but none of his attempts appeared to ‘switch it on’ upon the night that followed his arrival. Regardless, it was explained that he had a few simple photos of the Garden and the more supernatural location known as Fyxestroll Garden after some odd events with the ghostly entities and one having been set on a battle with him. And an… event? with a young fire’y haired woman that conducted many investigations of the beings.

There was much more explained of the Vidyadhara as well and their home of Scalegorge Waterscape, quite a bit being of this Dan Feng and reincarnation of Dan Heng. At some point, the General had muttered a soft ‘You would have enjoyed the mans company’. He had no doubt in that, if he had been friends or closer with the General.

Upon their re’arrival to the harbour, Morax had requested Jing Yuan’s company within the upper floors of Heyu Teahouse, having ultimately shocked the waitresses when they saw who they would be seating. With a rush, they’d set up a silent spot, set out their requested drinks and since then, the two had been enjoying the dusking evening, the lanterns of light being the only significant glow that gave them the ability of sight… The sight that Morax had…

“Your harbour is as bountiful with beauty as it is prosperous,” the General smiled warmly from where he was stood at the window, his gaze locked on the ever present energy that flowed through his nation under the guise of lively land dwellers and genuine content and comfort of its people and surroundings. He could feel the awe, the growing love from the man as he continued to spend his time there. The feelings were mutual, with General being an inclusion to the Archon’s inner list.

“I thank you for your compliments,” the God nodded in appreciation, watching the other from where he was sitting at their table close to that very window. He’d been gazing at the man the entire time, taking in the additional beauty to the land. And he was. Beautiful, that was.

The Archon decidedly stood and made his way over. The man’s arm reached out and laced along his back once he was within reach and not even a moment later, he was held side to side with the General, the warm gloved palm and fingers brushing the open diamond on his back, very likely following the dark Geo pattern within the cut-out.

A soft breath left him, his eyes falling shut as he leaned into the delicate touch of the hand and arm. So soon after the man arrived in his lands, but so welcomed. It’d moved so fast despite how little he truly knew about the General within the two days… Morax used to fall slowly, used to take his time, tended to his partner at such a pace where human lives would pass in a blink…

So why had he drifted so fast to this man with only two days passing. A whirlwind pace for the Archon…

“You’re in your own mind again, Lord Morax,” the soft, smooth voice reached him, so close to his ear. He let his eyes open and lifted his gaze to the taller man, watching him intently. Jing Yuan was watching him in return, his gentle eyes warming him.

“Only good thoughts, I assure you,” he smiled softly, their gazes locked to one another. Though he wasn’t entirely oblivious to the world outside of their delicate, personal bubble. He’d heard the quiet and swooning whispers of the waitresses at the other end of the room. 

It appears that they’d forgotten about public decorum… Especially for the Archon’s status.

“I’m comforted by that… but might I draw your attention to my leg,” there was a playfulness to his tone and the God did eventually lower his gaze, his eyes widening. His tail wrapped around the mans calf, lower to his ankle, but was still hooked along the lower half of his leg!

Morax had to clear his throat to avoid choking on his own mild surprise and swiftly unhooked his tail to curve it around the other side of his own leg.

“Apologies, I hadn’t… the mood… may have captured me,” the Archon sheepishly rubbed the back of his neck with a softly strained smile. Though all he’d seen in return was an entertained smirk, the General was taking joy of the moment rather than anything negative, not that he’d expected the latter.

“Good to know that I’m able to capture you so easily,” he chuckled gently, his hand still smoothly pressed to his spine with his fingers shifting fraction by fraction. He felt that maybe Jing Yuan had sussed the way to calm him, as the motion had done just that-.

“Lady Ningguang!” and just like that, the stiffness returned under the other's touch, his eyes closing. He was glad that the waitress had announced the woman's arrival, but her being there… could only mean that she had business. The meeting she’d cancelled that day must have been important but was cancelled on impulse despite needing to be seen to.

“Lord Morax,” came the strong yet soft woman’s voice, commanding and as authoritative as ever, to which he was used to in the marvellous human.

“Lady Ningguang,” he greeted, sending his gaze over his shoulder to see the woman accompanied by two other assistants of hers. She, and the two, could very well see the arm of the stranger across his back, the arm that slowly fell and removed itself from him, sadly. But this was work, so he understood the General’s cue.

“To what do I owe the hasteful visit,” the Archon continued and gradually turned to face her fully, seeing the realisation in her eyes, but the moment did not detour her, not that he assumed it would. She had tact, to his appreciation. One of her ladies had a blush and dropped her gaze, which amused him some.

“If possible, I require your attention on a matter that is almost at its end… I’ve already set the files and details on your desk,” At that, Morax curled a brow, his head tilting. A matter that was almost finished and he had not been informed? If it was so important that it needed his eye, why had she not inquired prior?

“Alright,” he sighed softly with a nod and shifted so that Jing yuan was within sight, “I apologise for my leave. Considering the time, I’ll have to return to you in the morning,” the Archon informed, not wanting to leave the small space they’d shared.

“It’s alright, Morax. I’ll see you again,” the man bowed his head and allowed him to go. The God gave him a lingering look before he turned to leave and began to follow the women out of the upper floors of the teahouse. They ventured into the streets where the Archon was walking a tad ahead of Lady Ningguang with her two assistants behind. It was slow, calm, the glow of Liyue’s lights leading their walk…

“So~, does the handsome stranger have a name~?” her tone, playful, gossip’esque… it had taken him aback. Morax’s stride faltered just slightly and his gaze was shot over his shoulder to the woman, “Lord Morax… had you not expected the question?” she was far too amused by this for his liking…

“I didn’t, no… Though if possible, I’d like to refrain from delving into this conversation in public,” he replied honestly and crossed his arms behind his back to regain some façade of composure under her scrutiny.

“Understood. In your office then, my Lord… He must be quite important considering you hadn’t corrected him after referring to you as ‘Morax’ only,” she’d hummed coyly, warmth tinting his cheeks upon his realisation.

Notes:

Something pretty fun about this chapter, personally, is that Zhongli's very aware of how fast he's fallen for Jing Yuan when he's taken WAY long for another partner from his past. It's not going to be called "Love at first sight" for him, but he can understand the notion behind it. It's just a huge shock for him.

ALSO!! It was asked in the comments from the last chapter, regarding Jing Yuan having a phone and that he likely had photos, so I messed with that plothole and gave my reason in the chapter ;) (Thank you, Raynnn ^^)

ALSO also, I had a really cool idea regarding an actual Vidyadhara version of Zhongli where he and Jing Yuan have an arranged marriage to keep the piece after something threatens to drive the Vidyadhara from the Luofu. Either that or something like it between Zhongli and Dan Heng.
I need to expand and actually sort out the plot though ^^;
It'll be after a couple of other pieces.

Chapter 12

Notes:

More like CHAPTER 11.5, sorta.

Bit of a short chapter, but I wanted to reveal something really cool that might give you some ideas as to where I might be taking this!!

Within his office, neatly set out on his desk rested numerous images, expertly sketched with perfect precision and detailed annotation, worded plainly yet explanatory for anyone with knowledge of elemental weaponry and Guizhong ballista. It was to his surprise that Lady Ningguang had gone out of her way to work so hard in secret to have all of this information to present to the Archon at such a time.

“You’re weaponizing the Jade Chamber, Lady Ningguang?” he frowned in question, comparing a couple of files with absolute detailed scrutiny, a fine eye piecing together exactly ‘how’ she planned to show the result of her efforts. It came as a shock, an utter surprise that struck him. His first question would have been why, but he knew all too well that she could be quite the unpredictable fox. This was a very good example of that.

And to her word prior, the presentation was unfinished, there happened to be a few key points missing. Not all that important, but they were required if she truly wanted a flawless weapon… A weapon for what, though.

“Indeed, I am, Lord Morax,” there was no elaboration, no indication that she was about to further the conversation with a reason. As curious as he was, he was… equally lost as to how to continue it himself. The only reply he could think was to inquire, to gain more of her reasoning, her thoughts on the matter, the cause, what prompted the decision…

“Guizhong ballista. And quite a few with excellent remodelling for stability and accuracy,” he muttered, eyeing the redesigned weapon. An elegant change with upgraded components. The God was too fascinated to question the woman.

“Thank you, My Lord,” he’d heard the woman reply smooth, and one glance towards her gave him the impression that she was as concerned to further any chatter as he was to hear the answers, watching him in return with a keen eye, yet seemed to worry for his reaction to the entire display of organised files spread along the smooth wood of his table… This back and forth… it would not get him answers.

“Lady Ningguang, may I inquire as to why you’re weaponizing your floating isle?” Morax questioned as he straightened up, his gaze falling to the very well diagrammed appearance of the Geo based weapons activatable at the sides and above the building. From what he could tell, she was the trigger for said weapons.

“It… actually has some relation to the request of building you a hall and statue,” she muttered softly, glancing away quite pointedly. The God gradually closed the file, feeling the need to allow her free speech while having earned his full attention. He’d been curt with the talk of the statue and dedicated hall…

“I feel as though there’s far more to it than simply wanting to build an extension to the harbour dedicated to myself, Lady Ningguang… Please, speak your mind, I’m listening,” as if to prove it, he set the file aside and turned fully to the woman, watching her closely with a far less firm stare than before. In return, her eyes lifted to him again.

“As I’ve said, many in Liyue are in favour of dedicating items in your honour as we feel somewhat at fault for your wish to step down from your throne,” she’d started slowly, Morax wanting to explain that it wasn’t of their doing, but fought the urge, letting her continue no matter the need.

“The statues and hall would be a place of respect for if you ever left us… Regardless of our feelings, it was your wish and it gave me the realisation that if you truly wanted to step down, we’d need defences… So I began ‘this’,” the woman gestured to the table of immensely detailed paperwork.

Morax cast his gaze across the table, nodding slowly along with what had been explained. Honestly, he found it… reassuring.

“Do you still wish to step down, Lord Morax?” he returned his eyes to her own, guilt… was strong in his bones, the thought that his need to leave his stone throne had led to this. It was reassuring, but hadn’t intentionally been his intention upon reinstatement… He felt as though it may be time to explain… to admit his state of mind… But was it a sign of weakness? No. A sign of growth, maybe… But a sign that it was time, regardless.

“My wish… is to know that the land of Liyue can thrive, for its people to limitlessly flourish by its own hand,” he started, his gaze never leaving hers, “I feel that Liyue is at its point where it can grow without the aid of its Archon. The phenomenal progress this nation’s acquired over the centuries still baffles me, and the amount of pride I bear is immense,” a smile drew at his features, a warm expression forming.

“Lady Ningguang, this nation does not need its Archonic Sovereign. It was merely coincidence that I’ve found myself at an age where exhaustion strikes me,” he’d finally admitted, watching as her features shifted to one of concern the moment he’d said it, “More than Six thousand years as the Lord of Geo and the God of Contracts, you’d think that I’d have fallen to Burnout aeons ago,” he chuckled softly, the expression still firmly planted on her delicate features.

“Then I cannot ask you to force yourself any further, my Lord,” the young woman linked her hands behind her back, finding her firm stance once more despite the large crater he’d made with his confession. As strenuous as it had been to finally allow himself to voice it, he felt as though he may have caused more stress for ‘her’ with it.

It was a struggle to… find a pace. He had no excuse now that he’d explained his mindset and her response was reassuring, but all in all, the weapons were yet to be created, the files yet to be finished. Regardless of what was said, he couldn’t dethrone himself. He couldn’t simply stand from his throne of Geo with that, with the end of this conversation. There was no responsibility in that, accountability, respect and there would be far too much guilt to simply drop everything without so much as preparations.

It was the reason for his initial test to begin with and that had failed. And he wouldn’t be releasing Osial ever again, though that hadn’t exactly been his doing directly.

“Unfortunately, I’m in a situation where I can not simply leave my position at the moment. This is a sensitive time with no other opportunity for Liyue to show its strength to give me reassurance that I can allow its people to take lead,” Morax gradually returned his gaze to the files, all the paperwork on his desk.

“But it’s a start,” Lady Ningguang’s voice met his ears, her hand having reached out to rest on the desk. It was that he was confident of. The weaponry that the woman had planned ahead with would be a fine start.

“That it is, my Lady,” he smiled so softly that he was sure the woman had almost missed it… Given the chance… would it have been worth giving them that opportunity? Once her plans yielded results?

“So, are you going to answer my question prior to this meeting?” she’d suddenly spoke up once more, leaving Morax a tad baffled for a moment, blinking at the strong woman with a clear loss, “The stranger you were entertaining at the teahouse,” her smirk was evident, a switch having flipped from the sombre, serious moment to one of mild amusement for her.

“Ah yes… The tall, platinum haired gentleman that you’d seen standing intimately with me?” he tilted his head, growing his own amusement due to her almost gossip-like attitude towards the scene she’d witnessed.
“I decline to answer, Lady Ningguang,” Morax had smiled in return and watched as she gawked up at him, appearing shocked that he’d held back from explaining, “I believe that my personal attachments should remain apart from my duties and professional stations, don’t you agree~?” the God teased some, his arms crossing smoothly across his solid chest.

“So he’s an Adeptus then,” she’d concluded, the Archon finding her ‘digging’ to be entertaining, “I’ve not seen him in Liyue though, so maybe… a very well hidden spot or realm of the nation that you’ve not revealed to us~?” the woman played coy, drawing a growing smile to the Archon’s features.

“Not quite, but that is not for me to divulge, Lady Ningguang,” he bowed his head some in respect and prompted himself to turn away, already heading for the door to avoid explaining further. He did not wish to allude to anything that General Jing Yuan did not wish public, regardless of whether it was simply Lady Ningguang alone.

Notes:

PLEASE READ

I think I may have messed up pacing at some point, I'll try my best to get it back and sort it out, hopefully within the next chapter. If I still think it feels off, I'll see about some editing, if not, I'm really sorry.
Either way, I'll try my best to sort it out.

PS, I've decided on the "Arranged marriage" au being about Zhongli/Dan Heng because I feel like it makes more sense for what I'm going for.
It's very likely that it'll be a tad steamy too. I have some Nosebleedingly gorgeous thoughts ¬3¬

XIAO+GAMING Fic I mentioned before.

Chapter 13

Notes:

Was like... a few hours later than I wanted to be, but I kept getting distracted. ADHD, am I right...?
I was doing so well with focus!!

“And to think I believed we were strolling the same thought path, my Lord,” Lady Ningguang sighed deeply, her arms crossed loosely across her chest. Morax simply eyed her, a small amused smile having graced his lips in return of her far more open demeanour with him. He’d been glad that she had wanted to continue their conversation from the night before and had even allowed him some moments of voiced thoughts to aid in it, but even then, she was quite stubborn and denied his urge to hand ideas.

Of course, she was correct that “Having the Archon to help build the defences would mean that we humans didn’t construct it ourselves. How do you expect us to not need you when you’re attempting to help with ‘this’?”

There had been a moment of ‘pouting- Brooding, admittedly.

Her last response had been due to the Statue talk once more, having stated that if he’d been fine with the weaponry, then it should be fine to build a hall and statue dedicated to him, to which he flat-out denied without hesitation.

“We were… that is, until you chose to build a statue on the path and reverted it to an obstacle course,” the God had almost let a smirk slip as he glanced away to the bridge that led towards the Chasm, the same path that he and the General would be venturing upon the man's arrival.

“... Was that a joke?” the woman blinked, seemingly having not expected something like that to be said by the Archon at all. Contrary to popular belief, he did have a funny bone when conversing a tad casually with others…

“Lady Ningguang, I may have the ability of Geo, but my humour isn’t as dull as a stone,” Morax replied so smoothly, amused that she seemed that much more perplexed and or surprised by the comment. She appeared to hesitate for just a few seconds before parting her lips.

“... Another jest?” she asked with a slight reluctance to her tone, maybe feeling that she did not want to push it or offend him in some sense. Amusingly enough, Morax enjoyed the back and forth. He’d relay blame to the General that had been accompanying for the last few days. The man had quite a positive influence over his stress.

“I’ve simply not had the chance to relax and ‘show’ it,” Morax chuckled softly, a smile gracing his lips. It at least seemed to relax her. He’d seen the tension leave the woman's shoulders as she crossed her arms once more and returned to her calmed posture. To be frank, he was glad to have chatted with her after the night before. He’d been feeling… unapproachable for some time, with a strong presence that had made her avoid him. The cancelled meeting being a good example after their meeting the day before that.

… He’d felt a tad guilty still until the explanation regarding the Jade Chamber.

“That’s quite a smile, Lord Morax,” the moment the familiar smooth, deep and calm voice reached him, the smile grew some, his gaze drifting towards the path leading towards them from the narrow walkway from the bridge. General Jing Yuan had his own morning smile.

“A shame I hadn’t been the one to earn it,” he’d continued, his gaze firm on the Archon, slowing before reaching the two Geo wielders. Despite there being two, he seemed perfectly happy to allow his gaze to linger on the God and even stand closer than acquaintances.

“Ah, so back to the honorifics, I see. Trouble in paradise~?” Lady Ningguang teased before the Archon could speak. The comment drew his attention, both of them, and Morax was greeted with a very sharp smirk aimed directly at the new arrival. Seemingly, she planned to dig a little for information.

“You’re a sharp one… But no,” Jing Yuan replied just as smoothly, but Morax had caught the fact that he hadn’t even denied… whatever it was that they shared. He’d only denied that there was some skiff, though he didn’t recall any time where they were at odds, to his relief. Regarding their… ‘relationship’? Morax wasn’t entirely sure what one would call it. They weren’t an item, yet they acted as much when together, but given the situation, he’d doubted that even the General would label it.

“When it’s as blatant as you were, it’s quite hard to miss. I’m surprised the Lord hadn’t thought to correct you,” being reminded of her comment the night before and the comment she’d made here, warmth brushed his face once again, fighting against the exasperated slouch.
“Both of you were very obvious,” she added swiftly and glanced away to examine her claw-like accessory.

“Then my goal is achieved,” the ‘pep’ in the mans tone drew his attention, eyeing him with a questioning look, but again, he was far slower to answer as Lady Ningguang hummed and returned her eye to him before the God could question him further.

“There happens to be a goal with the action?” as sceptical as she’d sounded, he was just as curious, a brow curling.

“To show that he’ll be mine,” immediately… the warm smirk and sunlit gaze catching the gold of Morax’s own. He’d gawked, staring with that warmth spreading and growing fast!

An impulse, the Archon swiftly turned around, his back facing the two. A hand lifted to cradle his face, pinching the bridge of his brow and nose while the other had been crossed over his chest. The heat in his face was strong, burning and had even stretched to his chest with a hot flutter.
Regarding his earlier thoughts of any unneeded labels, that had been completely negated with what the General apparently had in mind for him! … Then again, he… the talk from the night before… Would it have been worth explaining it to… Jing Yuan?

“It appears that the Archon is bashful,” Lady Ningguang muttered with amusement, to his surprise, a soft grumble leaving said Archon as he’d expected that type of teasing tone from the General…

“Hush…” Morax half groaned while rubbing his brow, wanting the topic to be dealt with swiftly, “Enough of that. We have a schedule to keep… We’ll be off,” the God rushed some and motioned towards the bridge. Upon doing so, he swore to have heard the General’s smile as the taller man stepped by, brushing their shoulders very briefly.

“Apologies, Lord Morax,” Lady Ningguang’s voice reached him, still very amused with the tone that was used, “Safe journey,” Morax had taken a glance over his shoulder, watching as she turned away before the God began to follow after the General who’d slowed some for the other.

With a soft sigh, the Archon caught up rather quickly, stepping in time at Jing Yuan’s side and briefly side-eyeing him after the moment mere seconds ago. That comment… No, claim. His claim that Morax would be his. Yet he had no idea of what was discussed between himself and Lady Ningguang during that late meeting. Telling him… would have been ideal, yes?

The God frowned softly and allowed his gaze to drift towards the path to the Golden House, his grip across his chest loosening to entangle at his back, his hands brushing the spine of his robe-covered tail. Not yet.

The God refused to heighten hope until he had a clear estimation of a few key points. For as much as the Archon knew, the building of the Jade Chamber defences, the time it would likely take to construct. The timeframe wasn’t set in stone nor were the plans finished. The circumstances in which the defences could very well be used. He had no plans of releasing Osial as there was a far higher risk that he would escape upon his recent defeat. And the same could be said for any other evil that he had sealed beneath his spears.

It would all result in a game of patience, to wait for an oncoming evil worth using that level of power to detour.

“Out of curiosity, Morax. Though I do enjoy the scenery, why are we not using Teyvat’s mode of portation?” Jing Yuan’s voice caught him from thinking further, the God’s gaze lifting to the General who had been watching him, it seemed.

“Ah yes, we’ll be using a Waypoint once I’ve seen to Pervases Temple. It’s… a Landmark in a sense, quite important to my own General,” Morax smiled in response. He was well aware of the Yaksha’s temple and the frequent visits from Alatus. He himself had seen fit to visit during a few events to pay his respects to the meaningful spot.

“You have a General?” the man beside him questioned, though hadn’t seemed all that surprised given his station. At that, Morax nodded, a very warm smile reaching him.

“Yes. A fine warrior who’s earned my respect many a time over and who has carried my pride for aeons,” even speaking of the Yaksha brightened his thoughts and made his morning a good one… though… “I regret the position he’s in, he’s endured far too much and still endures loss and the constant fight, but I’m limitlessly awed by the young Adeptus,”

A soft sound left the General, catching Morax’s attention again.
“He sounds quite special to you,” the God saw the bright expression, the affectionate stare he was given, and the Archon nodded.

“He is… I believe in human terms, he could be seen as… a son? Something of the kind,” Morax attempted. He lifted a hand, sheepishly brushing the side of his neck in search of the term, but honestly could not put a name to how he’d seen the young Adeptus, besides ‘son’.

“I see. A familiar bond I share with my Retainer, maybe,” a gentle chuff left the taller man, to which Morax hummed in question and motioned for him to continue, which earned him a nod,,
“A young boy, the youngest Lieutenant of the Cloud Knights. A strong and energetic young sprout, I’ll admit. It can be a mild struggle to reel in the lads enthusiasm when the moment calls for calm heads,”

“I can see why you’re fond then,” Morax smiled brightly, feeling the brush of the mans shoulder only seconds later as the other strode closer.

They remained closer for some time as they meandered along the path, Morax being well aware that it was only around the corner from them. No later did he see the renovated temple, much effort having gone into it thanks to the few hands and Xiao’s driven respect and care.

Speaking of… Morax saw the very recognizable form of the being himself stood outside, arms crossed, eyes shut until they were within sight. The Archon watched as his striking gaze drifted to them, his posture loosening, but he stayed put.

“Rex Lapis,” the young Adeptus greeted respectfully with a short bow… regardless that Morax had stated that he hadn’t needed to from the start. Either way, the Yaksha seemed happy to show his care and respect for the Archon.

“Xiao. A pleasant surprise,” the Archon greeted warmly, nodding low in respect. Upon straightening up, he shifted a little aside to view both the Yaksha and the man he’d been walking with. It was quite a good time as he had his own ‘retainer’ with them.
“General Jing Yuan, this is my own General. The Vigilant Yaksha and Conqueror of Demons,” and of course, he could not introduce without the flourish of power that came with appearance..

“A happy coincidence as we were conversing about you. That’s quite the title,” the man smiled in greeting and followed the Archon’s motion with the bow of genuine respect. A General to a General. The man straightened along with the Yaksha, the  Archon having felt a warmth settle in his chest with the positive start.
“Does he already know, Lord Morax?” a soft hum left the God, blinking a moment before realisation struck as to what he had been referring to, but much like Lady Ningguang, Xiao had beaten him to it.

“I do. The Archon needn’t concern himself with repeating explanations. The wind carries your voices, questions and answers,” his naturally gritty voice spoke up, his stare being firm and as sunlit as the taller man that had asked in the first place. Said man seemed a tad lost, amusingly enough, a soft smile reaching Morax’s lips as the General glanced towards him.

“His ability is that of Anemo, the wind,” the Archon supplied as he loosely crossed his arms over his chest. Jing Yuan seemed to pick up quite fast as to what the two had been referring to though.

“Ah, I see. So while you’re in another part of the nation, you can very easily tell what another is doing despite the distance,” the platinum haired off-worlder summed up perfectly, earning a nod from the God, as if that were some kind of praise. Either way, he seemed pleased with the confirmation.

“He catches on fast, Rex Lapis,” the young Adeptus muttered and crossed his arms, shifting a fraction closer to the Archon, who gave him a warm smile.

“He does indeed,” Morax nodded before lifting his gaze to the temple, their reason for walking the short distance. Though with Xiao there, it would have been best to give him time with his brethren. This was a topic of feeling that he could understand.
“I see that you’re honouring your comrade. We shall leave you then,” the Archon lowered his head with respect and was about to step away.

“I was already done,” the Yaksha’s voice caught him, the tone being… strained? “... My Lord…” with the hesitance, it drew a fine frown to his features, watching the young Adeptus seem to struggle with something within, a battle of whether to voice a concern?
"It’s nothing. Please be safe,” Xiao eventually sighed, seeming to have given up on whether had plagued him for the moment and- Disappeared in a shock of slashed wind.

Morax tilted his head, the frown still present. He felt a tad… unresolved with the departure, the topic of whatever he’d appeared to want to say left hanging in the thickets of his thoughts.

“An interesting young man,” Jing Yuan’s voice once again reached him, catching the Archon’s attention. Maybe it would be worth meeting the Yaksha at the Inn later that day to converse. He had been too busy of late and while venturing with the General, he’d been… absent from Xiao…

“That he is…” Morax smiled a little sadly, promising himself to travel to meet with Xiao in the evening upon his return. And with that thought in mind, he’d also return to the temple to pay his respects again before retreating to his office that night.
“Shall we?” he’d gestured to the Waypoint.

Notes:

Okay so this one is important because Xiao was there too. The reason "why" and "why he didn't tell them about Bailu" will also be explained in the next chapter as Chapter 14 is fixed on Xiao and Bailu.

ALSO!! I'm set on the Arranged Marriage fic being about Zhongli/Dan Heng. I have some really cool ideas for it and it 'does' get a lil' steamy because those two area really tempting together with this trop.
I wanna get to the Wriothesley/Neuvillette story before it though and I've finally posted the XIAO+GAMING fic I mentioned, it's linked in the chapter before this one too.

Chapter 14

Notes:

This chapter really got away from me! It's 3.4k XD

This is the Xiao-centric chapter I mentioned where he's pretty much taking Bailu to Ganyu!!

He peered down on the two from his vantage point, watching his Lord and the otherworldly General disappear from sight by way of Waypoint. Within a blink, they’d vanished, and moments later the wind relayed their reappearance within the jagged spiral walls of the Chasm, the Rex Lapis Statue of Cinnabar Cliff being their zone of re-emergence.

So they thought for a swift travel to and from the edges between nations, or they planned to visit Sumeru itself with whom he could feel making their way from the Dendro city. Half-heartedly, he’d hoped that Rex Lapis would spend some time within the boundaries of the other Archon’s zone, it’d both give him a break and allow him reconnection with one of his own once more. And who better than the Lesser Dendro Archon? She was kind, even generous with allowing Xiao himself to meander when the remnants of dead monsters' souls weren’t rabidly clawing at their shores.

The Yaksha took a long breath, calming his thoughts of the horrid beings, thankful that they were far from active with the day of the Lanterns having passed them by with Xiao having been actively taking part in keeping the shadows at bay. Not that he hadn’t been unscathed. The tainted pain of the Karma still ached him from time to time when a fractional pulse of the remnants extended their reach just slightly to test his attention.

He eyed the building, the temple, from his perch for a moment longer before lowering his head, eyes closed in respect before the Yaksha disappeared in a brief puff of black and green fractal wind.

Moments later, Xiao reappeared, standing on the very edge of the roof above his balcony, eyeing the small girl that was standing against the barrier, staring out at the vast beauty that was Liyue as a nation. The girl… Xiao hadn’t informed the two, he hadn’t explained that this draconic little being had been in search of the General. He’d been about to but thought otherwise, wanting them to continue their travel undeterred. Regardless of the girl, Rex Lapis had wanted to reconnect with the other Archon and wanted more time with the Descender. Of course Xiao would attempt to not intervene with this. As far as he was aware, there was no danger and the girl had yet to panic and relay any indications that there ‘was’, so for the Yaksha, he would avoid bothering the Archon. This could wait.

“You’re an early riser,” he muttered flatly, catching a sharp squeak from the young dragon before she whirled around and shot him a stare.

“Don’t sneak up on people!” she’d snapped almost instantly. She was as energetic as the day prior it seemed, and maybe a tad more mouthy. The Yaksha sighed at that, appearing less than pleased at the thought of dealing with that through the trek to the harbour.

“I didn’t ‘sneak’,” Xiao muttered with a flat tone and gradually stepped over the edge of the roof, lowering to the balcony deck swiftly but safely.

“You were quiet and scared me! That’s sneaking!” the little dragon stepped up close, as if to intimidate, she didn’t, “... Where’d you go anyway? I was waiting forever,” … it was ten minutes at most… and the girl had been asleep upon his disappearance. She exaggerated, obviously. Regardless, he wouldn’t be explaining where he’d been. She knew nothing of the location or his reasoning.

“My whereabouts are none of your concern,” he grumped somewhat, keeping his walls strong as he completely blocked her from opening the proverbial door to that topic. Though all he received was a deadpan stare and empty blinking for a long moment.

“... You’re really edgy,” the little dragon commented quietly upon observing him. The second he’d heard the words, his feathers were ruffled a tad, his muscle stiffening in response with his comical irk reaction.

“What was that…” he growled lowly, though his hissy demeanour seemed to not force a reaction from her at all. Her eyes had widened, but a second later, she’d chuckled!

“Nothing!” the girl cawed and linked her hands behind her back, “So! When are we leaving? I wanna get to the city and see your God!” he could already feel some semblance of a headache…

“Now,” Xiao growled softly, watching as her face lit up and swiftly darted passed him for the stairs. With a patience controlling deep breath, he turned around and followed at his own pace, descending the stairs and leaving the building for the lift.

Given a moment to think ahead, he could have requested that Ganyu meet him halfway. The results would have veered in the same direction with the girl ultimately ending up in the woman's care. Unfortunately, he hadn’t thought of it and he couldn’t very well drag her into it on short notice until they were within her presence… Though it would be short notice to simply dump the dragon girl into Ganyu’s busy hands.

Madam Ping maybe? Definitely not Director Hu or Shenhe. Nor Baizhu or Qiqi. Either way, Ganyu was the best option and he’d already mentioned her being a direct assistant to Rex Lapis…

“Can you walk any slower?” the dragon's voice reached him, a swift grumpy grunt leaving him. Despite the reaction, he did, indeed, pick up the pace and followed, stepping onto the lift with her as it’d coincidentally reached them as he’d gotten to the spot. This would be a long walk…

—-- Xiao Transition~?

To his assumption… it had been a very long walk…

By the time they’d gotten to the Geo statue North of the harbour, Bailu had talked his ear off with various topics of which he had no experience or knowledge of due to it being about her own realm and then there had been an odd moment of questions for his own world and appearance. To his curiosity, what was said did fascinate him to a degree, but the way she spoke gave him the impression that she’d expected him to understand the subjects.

For instance… She was a healer and dealt with Mara, and Mara struck on a daily basis…Now, from what Xiao could gather, it… was an illness of some sort that affected body and mind? Or… it changed the person? There wasn’t much context for him to confidently piece together this puzzle as it had a few pieces missing.

He had ‘some’ knowledge, but that had been due to General Jing Yuan’s explanations that he’d listened to during his time spent with the Yaksha’s Lord. Locational knowledge, he had. He didn’t have knowledge of much else regarding the happenings on the Xianzhou Luofu.

Other than that, she’d asked about the mask on his hip, to which he answered very vaguely, that he ‘used it during harsher battles against inflicted beings. He hadn’t elaborated despite her minor pressing. From what followed, it appeared she’d compared it to this ‘Mara’ thing. As if they could have been a similar infliction. Maybe? He wasn’t sure, but he could imagine that there were some inflictions that reacted similarly? At a stretch.

“Oh! Oh oh! Is that the city?!” Xiao glanced to his side and then ahead, seeing the large harbour ahead of them, glowing with the late midday sun bearing down on it. The walk had been long, as he’d hoped, to give the Archon time.

“Liyue harbour. Yes,” he replied slowly and continued walking, “Stay at my side until I find Ganyu, understand?” the Yaksha gave her a heavy stare, not expecting the nod from the young girl before she began to follow after him, sticking closer. Maybe it was simply her need to not get lost within such a large area. And one could very easily get lost, though the mortals were kind enough to help if asked.

They turned on the path, heading down the slope towards the large bridge. Between them and said bridge was the tall arch, the small pond in their path and even from where they were striding down the hill, he could see the instant alerted reactions from the Millelith standing at attention. From seeing the Yaksha himself, he’d wager. He rarely ever appeared in person to the harbour, so seeing him likely sent a chill through them, given his reputation.

“So coooooooool,” he heard the girl beside him swoon at the sight of the harbour, a small well of pride brushing him, glad to see that even she was taken in by the result of Rex Lapis' hard work.

He strode around the small pond, watching the eyes from the guards follow them and once they were within speaking distance, they tapped their spears against the ground.

“General Xiao!”-“Vigilant Yaksha!” the two greeted professionally in unison, their words melding somewhat. He returned the greeting with a grunt and strode past without stopping, his boots tapping along the wood with the dragon's pitter patter in tow.

“You’re a General?” her question drew his attention briefly, his gaze dropping to her. Unexpectedly, she had been staring up at him with… an odd look, surprise mixed with obvious questions on her tongue. Understandable, as he’d never mentioned his titles to her at all or the rank he’d had from the start.

“I am. I’m the Archon’s General,” he replied calmly, returning his gaze to their pathing as he’d led her to the stairs that led up to the upper levels of the harbour. And of course, he had drawn attention, the girl as well due to her appearance. He had thought about it, but if asked, she could be passed off as an Adeptus he’d recently come across from the borders of Mt. Mingyuan. It could explain her more water themed style being that close to the South East of Fontaine.

“How are you already a General? You look so young,” at that, the Yaksha frowned slightly and slowed his pace to eye her while climbing to the top of the stairs.

“I’m over two thousand years old,” he stated as if it were a casual comment, but the look she gave him was anything but calm. Her eyes bulged, mouth falling open, gawking at the taller being as if he had stunned her with the statement. Clearly he had.

“Why does that surprise you?” he curled a brow and tilted his head. With her not being mortal herself, she’d be over the average lifespan of humans, no? Or at least that was another piece of information that had been explained before. Vidyadhara being a ‘long life species’ and all that.

“Two thousand,” the dragon had muttered, “Two thousand years old…” she repeated, earning a flat stare, “Dan Feng was like… five hundred when he died,” Dan… Feng? Hadn’t the beings name been Dan Heng? The other General wouldn’t have given the wrong name for someone he appeared to have been so close to from what Xiao had heard. And only five hundred?

“And… that’s considered long life?” he questioned slowly, the soft frown still present, “Rex Lapis is over six thousand,” Xiao added with a shrug. He understood that five hundred would definitely be long lived by mortal standards, but… that was still a blip to someone like Rex Lapis. It was nearly a quarter of Xiao’s own age.

“What ‘are’ you guys…” the young dragon gawked at him, again, very surprised by the ages of the beings of Liyue.

“Clearly longer lived than Vidyadhara,” Xiao muttered and turned away, continuing the walk towards the pharmacy as the stairs to the offices were in the same direction.

While she appeared to still be stunned by the new knowledge, the Yaksha led the girl to the upper terrace and meandered along towards Yuehai Pavilion. If he recalled correctly, Ganyu’s office was across the way from the Archon’s and was doorless as she was technically his receptionist while he worked within his walled space. Though that wasn’t promising she would be there as the Archon wasn’t.

Without hesitation, he’d waved off the woman that had been about to question his appearance at the door to the building and held it open for Bailu to step in. He closed the door and headed further into the building, striding along until he saw the far more finer and extravagant layout, clear signs leading them towards the cushier area of the structure that evidently directed them towards the Archon’s office.

No later that they entered the wide hall that showed his Lord’s doors, he could hear soft sighs and paper being balled up. She was in.

Xiao stepped towards the open space to her room, his stare landing on the very overworked younger Adeptus that had her face planted against her desk with a soft groan. She was as tired as ever, again. He couldn’t fathom the need for sleep…

The Yaksha held a hand out to the dragon beside him, hiding her behind the wall. With Ganyu’s state, dropping the other worldly serpent on her would be a shock to her system. So… he’d have to explain and then call her in.

“You seem busy,” he finally spoke up, seeming to shock her either way as she yelped and straightened up.

“Xiao! Uh-, Yaks- uh… S… Sorry. I didn’t see you there,” she shifted in her seat, straightening up and regaining that more professional air she’d taken toaster the Archon requested her placement.

“Not with your face on your desk, I’m sure,” he snorted softly, earning a soft whine from her. She clearly hoped that he wouldn’t have seen that, “All jokes aside…”

“That was a joke?” he’d heard her mutter very quietly, sheepishly chuckling a moment later when he just stared firmly at her. She forgot that he was there…?

“All comments aside… I require your aid,” he grumbled, filing her comment away for another discussion, “You’re aware of the man that Rex Lapis has been accompanying of late?” he was aware that she did, yes.

“Ah, yes. Jing Yuan. They seemed to have gotten quite close. I’m very glad actually. Lord Morax appears far happier since finding him,” she smiled widely, appearing very pleased that the topic seemed to be a positive one.

“I’d assume it’s due to their like-mindedness. He seems to be able to read our Archon quite well. But that isn’t what I was referring to. You also had the impression that he is a Descender, yes?” Xiao swiftly cut to the point and her reaction already gave him his answer, the slight stiffening and then her resignation.

“I did. There’s something different, a very Electro sensation despite not wielding a Vision and with his attire alone, it gives the impression of a Liyuian, but I’ve never seen him before. Lady Ningguang assumes that he’s an Adeptus, but much to your experience, I’m also not aware of any Adeptus by his name or appearance,”

“Thus, you concluded that he is a Descender,” Xiao finished for her, receiving a nod, “To the reason I’m here… He is not the only one to appear in Liyue,” at that, he gained a taken aback reaction, her gaze widening on him.

“What do you mean? There was another that Descended?” she moved to stand, being at eye level with the Yaksha, “Would this.. Are you sure? They aren’t a threat, are they?” with her question, Xiao pictured the small, mouthy serpent, his own expression dulling at his own terrible imagination of her.

“The only threat she poses is to my ears,” he muttered very quietly and crossed his arms over his chest with a deadpan expression, a soft sigh leaving him.
“To keep the explanation brief… A small draconic girl appeared within the Marsh and she was directed to the Inn to find me. She demanded that I take her to Rex Lap-,”

A crash came from the Archon’s office and within seconds, he’d disappeared from Ganyu’s desk and reappeared within Rex Lapis', where the crashing had come from. The dark room was lit by the open door and at his feet lay a bunch of books and table items. In the corner of his eye, Ganyu’s shadow appeared in the door.

“You shouldn’t be in here,” he growled quietly, though in the now silent room, his tone was deafening. And instantly, he could see the girl across the way, behind the table that had been moved and was now empty of the contents that had been on top of it.

“I’m… sorry. I saw the gold dragons on the glass,” he heard the pout in her tone, seeing the guilty expression despite the distance. Side eyeing the doors, the golden variation of Rex Lapis' dragon form was mirrored in the glass of the upper half of the door…
“And… this tapestry,” again, his attention was drawn to what she’d gestured to and on the wall, behind the table, was a half hidden image of the Archon. Golden, painted to show the draconic features of horns, his tail, his hands cradling the glowing stone of Geo and with golden specs of scales on his cheek, all of which was at the forefront of a golden mountain landscape.

Of course the room would draw her attention…

“Ganyu, this is Bailu,” he sighed heavily, “The Descender I’d mentioned that had demanded I bring her here to acquire the aid of Rex Lapis,” he lifted a hand to his face, rubbing his brow and eyed the mess below him. He couldn’t blame her, the door and painting were enough to draw attention to his being and she’d been too adamant to find him.

“He’s… not here at the moment, I’m sorry,” Ganyu hesitated and strode over to start picking up the fallen books and items, Xiao lowering to help.

“Xia- Xiao said that he was busy and said that I could wait for him with you,” her voice was closer, the Yaksha glancing up to see that she’d rounded the table and had started picking up the smaller things that had fallen beneath it.

“Oh! That’s why you came here!” Ganyu beamed and sat back on her heels, “Yes, you can wait with me. He shouldn’t be all that long if they travel using the Waypoints,” she informed and Xiao felt the instant stare on him from the little dragon.

“Waypoints…?” lifting his gaze, he saw the accusatory gaze from the little serpent. And his response was a very well hidden smirk. He’d gotten some form of payback for the non-stop talking.

“... You didn’t use those?” the goat Adeptus quirked a brow at him as well, “Did you use your abilities to port here?” again, the stare grew heftier and Xiao straightened up, glancing between them as he stood and returned some of the books to the table.

“We walked from the Inn,” he informed rather casually and held out his hands to the small, cheek puffed dragon that gave him the stuff she’d picked up. She was obviously disgruntled by the knowledge… amusingly.

“You’re mean… you made me walk all that way when you could use the Waypoint thingies or some powers you have…?” she’d summed up accurately and the Yaksha nodded in return, being given a huffy sigh from the dragon in. Ganyu, however…

“Xiao…” there was a mix of amusement and motherly disappointment from the goat Adeptus, doing well to hide how torn she appeared between wanting to lecture him and wanting to commend him. He knew that she’d heard his comment about his ears and Bailu’s mouth and for him to say that, it was inevitable that he was silently acquire payback.

But to keep the peace…

“The Archon is busy and enjoying some company with the General. I saw fit to not come between that. Hence, I took the long route to the harbour,” he shrugged and set the items down in a way where they wouldn’t fall again.

“Your God likes General Jing?” the young dragon asked with a head tilt, earning a nod from the Yaksha as he retrieved what Ganyu had been holding. The young girl appeared a tad curious, or confused, he wasn’t quite sure.

“Lady Ningguang’s been gossiping about it all day with me. She’d mentioned that she caught them sort of hugging yesterday-,” before he could continue, he held a hand up swiftly, cutting Ganyu short.

“I request that we end the conversation here… I don’t ‘gossip’,” he deadpanned, really not wanting to picture what had happened. He’d heard it and really didn’t feel the need for his imagination to supply his Lord being intimate with a stranger.

Notes:

Aright, so if it ain't obvious, you can see who my fav character is just from the length of this chapter and one of the recent 1/1 stories I posted xD
Xiao's mah BOY. I love the guy and have a few other 1/1's in mind for him.
I'd actually really like to include him into a story where he ends up on the Luofu too, but I'm not sure how I can work it where Liyue would be safe without him due to the Karma Debt.

ANYWHO!!! Hope you enjoyed this one! And the fact that Xiao is a lil' turd sometimes when it suits him XD

Chapter 15

Notes:

Some Nahida for you~!!!!!
And an extra Cameo~

The General could see why Morax had such a high opinion of the Sumerian lands, the nation of lush greens and utterly filled with life, both plantage and mammal, thriving with such beauty in their surroundings. It was a breath-taking sight and he’d only seen the small clearing upon exiting the Chasm tunnel. A tell-tale sign of the Dendro Archon’s domain was the tall pillar of rock layered with a thick grass, atop being that of the Archon’s Statue, a small… child. As grateful in pose as the Geo Archon. Only, the Geo Archon’s Statue portrayed the absolute Power he wielded, while this one was… softer… gentler maybe.

Then again, with the title of ‘The God of Knowledge’, maybe it was just that, that she wasn’t a fighter but rather, the divinity of knowledge. The one behind the curtain, feeding information, the one to be positioned in a location of great safety as knowledge was power.

“You appear distracted, Jing Yuan,” the oh so smooth voice of the Geo Archon reached him, drawing him from his theories. He turned his gaze towards him, momentarily struck with the beauty of the brightly coloured forestry framing the elegantly bold appearance of the God. He’d felt a pulse of heat beat in his chest from the sight.

“I am,” he smiled warmly and gradually returned to the other beings side, “I’m enthralled by the ethereal beauty your world provides. Sumeru is… beautiful, vibrant,” the General shifted his gaze, allowing himself to continue taking in the gorgeous life around them.

“It is. My previous travels to this nation have always left me wanting to return soon after,” he can very easily imagine why. Regardless of the Element and nation he’s the Sovereign of, Jing Yuan could see him wanting that slight visual change every so often and with the sight of Sumeru, even the General was taken aback.

“And did you?” the man smiled some and returned his gaze to him, still finding him to settle so beautifully with the forestry at his back, lit by the sun. If he hadn’t known what this being was, he’d easily imagine him being some mystical creature of this life filled land-.

“He did,” his attention was alerted, his eyes drifting to an opening in the field. With the new voice came a small girl, silver, almost white hair, said hair was pulled to the side in a long ponytail, but did not detour the bangs from framing her fair skin and pointed ears. Quite a striking feature was her large green eyes with an almost four leaf clover pupil… An archon feature maybe? Morax had diamonds, which he’d associate with minerals, the earthly element.

Adorning her hair was a large green headpiece on the left side, quite intricately designed in a green leaf theme. Matching the theme, her outfit consisted of a white dress decorated with green and gold details, short detached sleeves made of patterned green fabric, and a gold bracelet on her right wrist. Her dress was adorned with a number of green gems and had been decorated with intricate golden patterns. On her back was a split pale green cape, and on her feet she wore short white stirrups adorned with gold that left her mostly barefoot, with her toes and heels being exposed.

All in all, she gave off quite the impression of a small, kind fairy, or a gentle elven child. Quite adorable, he’d admit.

The General watched as she meandered her way over, her gaze never leaving the Geo Archon. He was also aware of the other that had come with her. A man, tall, striking stare. But so long as he was with her, then he was deemed… safe, for the moment.

In terms of appearance… he was quite striking.

A dark half-off coat-like garment with a green front and lapels. The coat's colour faded from dark green to black and had numerous golden details and numerous trinkets, as well as a black mini cape with a golden underside. The "sleeve" of this garment that he wore was his left sleeve, leaving his right arm exposed. He sported a tight black top with a split high collar and detached sleeves, also decorated with golden details and a green ornament on his chest. His arm sleeves partially covered his hands, leaving certain fingers exposed. They were held together with numerous gold-patterned green fabrics around his waist from which a number of trinkets dangle including two light blue leaf-shaped charms, and three teardrop-like trinkets. He wore tight dark green pants and black and gold knee-high boots with a colourful top. 

He had the air of importance, especially to be travelling with this young girl.

Regarding said girl, Jing Yuan was nothing if not very quick to come to correct theories. He tended to take his time, thinking things through in most cases, but even he could see the obvious resemblance to the Statue atop the mountain pillar. The Dendro Archon.

“Good morning, Rex Lapis,” her soft, small voice cheerily greeted the God, “I apologise ahead of time as I do not have personal memory of you,” the seemingly young Archon bowed her head, and the General recalled Morax’s words that she had been relearning her position, that she had been born from the former Archon. She knew ‘of’ them, but not on a personal level anymore.

“Don’t worry yourself, Kusanali. I’m aware of the situation. I hope this visit will aid you in acquiring new ones,” Morax returned the bow and he’d followed suit out of respect, for if Morax bowed, then she was indeed important. The name alone confirmed his thought-.
“If I may, this is General Jing Yuan,” the Archon added quite swiftly, the man in question remaining in a bow for a moment longer before straightening up, “A descender, though I’m sure you’re aware,”

“I am. It’s quite a pleasure, General,” the small God smiled brightly, really giving him the childlike innocence that the statue portrayed. Though he could imagine that she was a force to be concerned of if pushed too far.

“An honour, Dendro Archon,” he returned a warm smile, hearing the soft laugh that left her before her eyes drifted to the other Archon, but she’d paused, eyeing him and the General followed her stare, seeing that Morax was locked in a staring match with the stranger that had accompanied the smaller God.

—--

Morax had been pinned, having felt the sharp gaze almost immediately and upon the end of the introduction on his part, he’d returned the keen stare. It was a mild surprise to have seen the man's appearance when the Dendro Archon had arrived. He bore a striking resemblance to an old acquaintance of his from the Sumerian Desert.

“Alhaitham?” he’d heard Kusanali’s voice speak up in question, appearing unaware of the reaction to the Geo Archon. He himself happened to be quite confused by the man's staring and though it didn’t bother him too much, it had piqued his curiosity as to ‘why’ he was the target of those unwaveringly recognizable eyes.

“For all my research, I’m unable to fathom why you’d fake your death,” Morax’s gaze widened considerably, his spine straightening with tension from that question. Regardless of the distance between nations, that had been a focus? And he’d been so fast with the question, no hesitation, no reluctance. His gaze, his sharpness, his stone solid expression…

Lying would be something he’d see through, he could see it in the man's face… He was calculating, expecting it.

Well then… having regained his composure.
“To Test my nation’s power without the hand that nurtured them,” Morax replied with utter honesty, watching as the man's gaze narrowed, his eyes still focused solely on his own. Though he didn’t appear to want to reply to that. He’d stayed silent, only watching him.

“Rex Lapis,” the small voice of his own drew his attention, “Shall we?” he eyed Kusanali, her arm gesturing towards the statue at the peak of the stone pillar. With a nod, the young Archon turned and began walking, the group following. With a slight side eye to the General, he appeared amused, a small smile playing on his lips.

The four wandered towards the pillar and to his expectation, the other Archon had lifted her gaze to him, giving him permission to use his powers. A small smile tugged at his own lips at that and Morax stepped forward, his hands lifting with the markings and the base of his hair beginning to glow brightly. A deep rumble vibrated within the ground and the pillar lowered, dust and dirt causing a slight gust as the mountain lowered as if there was a hole beneath it.

After a moment, the Dendro Archon’s statue was ground level, standing at their feet with no sign of a seam between the spot they stood and what had once been a pillar. He eyed his work and took a step back, his arm brushing against Jing Yuan, though the other didn’t seem to mind as Morax felt him brush back in return, a hand gently ghosting along the base of his back. Barely there, a delicate touch that relaxed him, but was gone only a moment later as the Lesser Lord reached out to the statue and teleported the group.

Only a blink, and they were met with an open area far above ground level. A simple glance gave him his answer, that they were at the front door to the Dendro Archon’s own chambers at the very top of her city’s tree. It held such a great view of the green lands.

“I’ll return to my work,” Alhaitham caught his attention, the mans odd presence had thrown him for quite the loop.

“Thank you for joining me,” Kusanali smiled warmly and both he and Jing Yuan watched as the Sumerian turned to leave with no second glance being spared before making his way down the ramp, leaving them to their own company for the moment

“Might I ask why he had accompanied you, Lord Kusanali?” Jing Yuan spoke up out of curiosity. Morax had the same interest, though his gaze continued to veer towards the ramp. It wasn’t that he was suspicious of the man, it was… the appearance. As he’d thought moments before, he bore a striking resemblance to a former acquaintance, so much so that even his mannerisms had caught him off guard, as small as they were.

“He requested it upon finding out that I would be seeing to your arrival,” Morax’s gaze drifted to the younger Archon, eyeing her positive reaction to the other having been there, though when she’d said her statement, her eyes had been on Morax. Meaning that ‘Alhaitham’ had been there for the Geo Archon?

“I get the impression that he was fond of your answer,” she’d continued, drawing a deadpan stare from the Lord of Contracts.

“I believe we have opposing opinions on that,” he’d replied flatly and curtly, her response being a chuckle. He trusted her opinions with no doubt, but that stare he’d received from the man had said otherwise.

“It’s no matter. And don’t worry, your interactions are safe with the Akademiya’s Scribe,” ah, so the man was the scribe of Sumeru… Understandably, he was very important to the city then. No wonder he’d carried such an atmosphere.

Morax returned his attention to the matter at hand as he’d seen her begin to wander towards the doors to her space of seclusion, her room of work. He recalled the Archon before her had used the very space they were being led.

“Regarding your reason for being here, I believe I can help, to an extent,” she smiled over her shoulder, “Though it would require some patience from the both of you to achieve what you’re seeking,” the wording… Morax tilted his head in question, pausing for the door to open before the two men followed her into her gorgeous chambers.

“Then you gather that I will be here for some time?” Jing Yuan spoke up, seeming somewhat relieved, though whether it was due to getting an answer or the sentence itself, he wasn’t sure what had pleased the General.

“No, not at all. Your means of returning to your Flagship arrived in Liyue harbour a while after your departure to see me, General,” the young God had chuckled, stopping short of her chamber centre, the two standing before her in shock.

“Please explain,” Jing Yuan spoke a tad… firmly, Morax eyeing him. The amusement had left him, the situation seemingly catching up from her sentences.

“A small serpent girl. A Vidyadhara, as you call them. She arrived in the harbour a couple of hours after you left this morning,” she replied so smoothly, no other reaction than to simply be informative. The Geo Archon let his gaze drift to the other again, seeing the thoughts he’d delved into, but then one came to Morax…

“Kusanali, you mentioned that we’d require patience. For what exactly? If the Vidyadhara is there to take the General back to his own realm, then what aspect of that would require patience?” he frowned softly, that question appearing to catch Jing Yuan’s attention as well.

“Ah, that was for the other reason you were here,” she chuckled warmly, “You want to be together, right?” Morax’s gaze widened, “General Jing Yuan only needs to wait until the Jade Chamber is weaponized and then you can retire,” her smile grew, but for the other Archon, he was stunned silent, his mouth falling open with his breaths becoming short, straining some to exhale. 

They’d only need to wait until the chamber was finished? Morax would step down? He could… The Archon, the title, the status, the work, the time and…

Breathe, Morax… calm yourself…

The God took a deep breath, a hand raising to his head in an attempt to gather his focus-. A hand on his shoulder drew his attention, warm, comforting. He tilted his head some, eyeing the hand and then the man it was owned by to see the General standing there, a soft smile gracing his lips.

“Did I not already say you’d be mine, Morax,” a statement, not a question. A soft chuff left the God… In fact, he was… quite happy to hear it, to hear the statement spoken with a far more resolute tone than when it was said upon their departure. The sincerity warmed his heart, eased him, and brought comfort to his chaotic, exhausted mind.

“It appears you’ll need to wait a while longer for that claim to be official, General,” the God smiled in return, watching as Jing Yuan’s grew that little bit wider.

Notes:

Okay, so the pacing with this one was weird, I actually struggled a little to stay focused, but hopefully it worked out well and I got my point across.
- And yes, Nahida was a good girl and didn't mention that Xiao had kept it from them that he had been the one to take Bailu to the harbour.
- The reason Alhaitham was there was because I wanted to try and write him as I have an idea for a Wriothesley/Alhaitham thing, something cute ;) *I struggled writing him...*

ANYWHO! Hope you enjoyed~

Chapter 16

Notes:

Aaaaaaaye, another chapter~

The General was surprised to say the least, finding out that his own Flagship’s High Elder had arrived in this beautiful world post his own arrival. That she was his way home, that Morax had been weaponizing something, that the small childlike appearance of the Dendro Archon was so deep into the vast knowing of sight that she’d informed them of it all with little to no effort to Jing Yuan's knowledge. It gave him the impression that she’d been watching them, which was likely true.

The taller of the two tilted his head, his gaze drifting to the lean, strong, elegant God beside him, watching as his still loose hair was brushed from his shoulder from the breeze. They’d had their time with the smaller God, had a decent conversation, a simple chat, he’d watched Morax fall into a deep flow of words, speaking of the past, of the prior to Lord Kusanali, to her glee. She appeared happy to hear of the former Archon, her former self.

At the time, it took a moment for him to process, but overall, he’d managed to follow, having even asked a few questions himself. The Dendro Archon had even questioned him of his world, being ever so interested and that had started a new conversation in which Morax had been invested once more in his depictions, descriptions and details.

All in all, the trip was… interesting. And soon after a couple of hours venturing into the city, they’d taken their leave, only to travel via waypoint to another location. Another location that instantly drew his attention to being back within the nation of Liyue, but far higher up, overlooking the mountains, the scenery, the beauty. Mt. Hulao, according to the God.

It was actually the first time he’d seen the golden minerals up close, glowing their tell-tale shine of Geo, their close relation to the Archon that eased them to shine greater with his presence. The location and Morax, seeing him within the space, as ethereal as his beauty with the Dendro backdrop.

“I apologise for not informing you sooner. The information had been rather short notice to myself,” his voice reached him from where the God was standing, his gaze drawn to the glowing stones peppered along the sides of the path close by. Jing Yuan hadn’t blamed him for having not mentioned it, he knew far too well that as a Leader, quite a lot was kept behind closed lips. He’d expected the Archon to have a lot hidden with the statue he carried.

“Regarding the defences, rest assured that I understand the need for it, Morax,” he replied smoothly, reaching out to brush a hand along his shoulder as he inched closer, his other hand experimentally resting against the other's strong waist. The God drew closer, foreheads meeting once more. His fascination with it, Jing Yuan was aware they did it quite often, but the level of reassurance and intimacy from that simple touch, especially from this being, was beyond words.

“The prospect of your leave would, understandably, prompt the need to have means to fight back against any and all foes. They’ve not needed it until now due to your safety,” he summarised as best he could while keeping his, hopefully, comforting air. In all honesty, he was… happier than he cared to admit aloud when faced with this information, and what the Dendro Archon had said regarding patience, that he’d be able to stand down.

The amount of relief the other surely had felt after the shock… The amount of pride that he’d be able to see his nation thrive after all the years of nurturing such a grand, powerful land.

“Though I must admit that I’m quite elated that it appears I’ll have you to myself once the time has past,” he smirked broadly, hearing the soft grunt and seeing the amused exasperation on the older beings face at the additional comment.

“General Jing Yuan, do you intend to relocate me to your world once the chamber has been fortified?” with the playful tone, it was made clear that Morax was very much aware of that. He did indeed hope to bring him home, to show him the beauty of his own Flagship, to introduce him to those he had bonded with.

“Most definitely,” he confirmed, raising his hands to the Gods jaw and tilting his head just slightly, “The moment you’re able,” the General chuckled quietly, softly pecking the Archon’s lips and feeling him lean in, chests and waists pressing just slightly.

“So forward,” Morax returned the amusement, his golden gaze meeting his own so warmly, so openly, so wanton. Though he’d never been one to feel or believe the term, Jing Yuan ‘could’ entertain the concept of feelings at first glance. He wasn’t sure he could tie it to their connection, but it was close enough. He’d grown fast feelings for the God, he had no doubt. There was a deep understanding between them and he was more than ecstatic that the other felt for him in kind.

“As if that detours you, Lord,” he left another peck, a very slow sigh leaving him a moment later.
“As much as I’d like to spend the remainder of my time here within your presence…” he trailed off some, witnessing the Archon’s expression grow with reluctance, though only briefly, and then reverted to resignation and understanding.

“As General, you have a duty to your own and if your time works akin to my own, they’re missing your command,” the logic, the sense, he was very aware if that were the case and he had thought about it. There was a ‘need’ for his return.

“A couple of months, and you’ll be at my side, Morax,” the two were very aware that neither could promise it, anything could happen within that length of time, but they were able to hope. And hope, he would. The expression he was given showed the shared feelings, the warm ‘want’ to stay with one another.

“I will,” the being smiled, their gazes strongly locked. It’d taken most of his will to break it before heading towards the upper platform of the mountain at the slowest pace possible. And much akin to before, he watched as a glow shone from the colours tips of the Archon’s hair, horns, his eyes, the patterns of his arms and the fur of his tail as the space below them began to rise, much like a lift, to the platform that held the waypoint.

“It’s still quite a surprise to know you’re able to shine far more than you already did,” he smirked with his half statement half flattery, earning himself a soft, deep toned chuckle from the God.

“I’m unaware of the reason as to why. We Archons appear to have a similarity in that matter,” with that reply, he’d wondered what else could glow as they meandered over to the teleporter. Sadly, the distance wasn’t far enough and not even a moment later, his gaze fell upon the very intricately patterned arm of Morax as he reached out and brushed it, a flash taking them from their prior seclusion.

Much like every other time it was used, a simple blink and they were in another space, another zone, and he’d recognized the area upon arrival. Jing Yuan was quite glad that the God had chosen this location, in all honesty. It was a decent distance from the harbour and a slow walk meant that taking their time would be inevitable. The Temple of the Yaksha comrade where he had met the Archon’s General.

He eyed the building, remaining silent for a long moment while beside Morax. He appeared to linger, gazing at the building and the Crane statue within before lowering his head and turning away, making his way towards the path with the General following swiftly.

There wasn’t much to say, no words managing to leave either of them as the harbour came into view with the evening sun shining through the streets and reflecting from the water surrounding it. It was… comfortable, soft, an understanding quiet. But they knew the upcoming events, at least what was meant to happen.

With that thought in mind, he side’eyed the God, his gaze lingering for a while before glancing ahead. He strode closer, their shoulders brushing just slightly and the other didn’t pull away… nor did he when Jing Yuan brushed his fingers against Morax’s, feeling him shift his hand to entangle with his own. He couldn’t deny that he smiled softly at that.

The slow walk back to the bridge of Chihu Rock had been something he’d felt the anticipation for, a feeling of ‘ready’ as he was aware that Bailu would appear from somewhere and he would be returned to his own realm, his Flagship, his position and eventually, a much needed rest in his bed. A routine that he hoped to include Morax once the defences were set.

—--

One could very easily hazard a guess as to where Morax’ mind was settled. His grip on the General’s hand was gentle, his thumb softly brushing a few knuckles as they curved the hump of the bridge and turned towards the upper platforms. His mind supplied that Ganyu would be the one to ask if any other person was waiting for him and he had already planned to request her aid in collecting the reports from the Millelith of any disturbances that needed seeing to. As was his ‘end of the day’ routine.

… Maybe it would have been worth leaving it until the next day, for distraction purposes, he was very confident he’d need it until the very end of the Chamber’s remodelling.

Morax frowned softly, internally berating himself for the sombre feeling. Thousands of years without this feeling, without this level of closeness to another and he’d been fine, but the thought of patiently waiting a few months, but a blip in his lifespan, and he felt as though there was an ache in his chest. Cloud Retainer would hear none of this upon her return, she’d never allow him to live it down.

“Alright, enough of the sadness,” he muttered quietly and straightened up, “I fear I’m growing far too weak to emotion alongside the exhaustion,” the Archon snorted softly and shook his head, truly feeling old age if ‘that’ was where his mind reverted despite knowing that they would likely be together again, especially after having heard Kusanali’s response regarding patience.

“You’re sad, Morax?” the General questioned, earning a deadpan stare towards the joke,  “I jest, and understand,” the man chuckled, Morax feeling their grip on each other grow a fraction firmer while turning towards the tall set of stairs that led to Yuehai Pavilion.
“There’s a certain deflation in the thought of not having your company. And although the Dendro Archon seemed confident that we would meet again, there’s that distant concern that the separation will be permanent… I don’t know how Bailu managed this or whether she’s able to recreate it after we return,”

… A logical concern, he’d agree. But then, they had memories, although limited, few in number, it had been a heart-warming time to have shared with the General.

“As much as the thought truly is quite saddening, I choose to believe in Lord Kusanali’s words and hope that they come to fruition,” even to his own ears, it had sounded a tad forced when said. The thought was there, but he could be stubborn.

“A far more tempting thought is to wait the time, return to my world with you at my side. I’d introduce you to those closest as my most cherished… and then introduce you to my bedchambers-,” Morax had been a tad taken with that last part, catching his balance before he could trip, his grip faltering in Jing Yuan’s. A moment later, he was gawking at the taller man, begrudging that smirk that grew across his face at his reaction.

“You-,” Morax cut himself off, uncertain of what to say as they climbed the few steps to the Pavilion and entered with the General leading as the God had wavered a tad.

“You didn’t expect me to want you in that sense as well, Morax?” the tone! The Archon gave him a flat stare, a comically exasperated one and what followed was a chuckle from the man. His teasing was as infuriating as Lady Ningguang…
“You’re bashful, my Lord,” the tone continued and Morax sighed heavily. And the switch from name to title threw him once more.

“In my defence, I’ve not met anyone as forward as you are with a God, Jing Yuan,” he replied swiftly, his voice a tad off while he attempted to regain his composure from the sudden bombardment from the man. He was beginning to feel as though he had a split personality with the two types of moods the General switched between when in his company… Morax hadn’t drawn that out of him, had he?

“You may be a God, Morax, but correct me if I’m wrong, you’ve shown me far more than you being a God,” to his words, the Archon paused his thoughts, eyeing him and seeing the warm expression that the man gave him.
“You’ve shown me that you aren’t only a God. I’m forward with ‘you’ due to who you are, not due to your status,” the man's smile grew.

Morax… paused in stride, so close to the corner that led to his assistant's office. His grip was soft on the man, his gaze just as gentle. It wasn’t all that often that he felt seen as himself over his status, understandably, but to hear it said the way Jing Yuan had worded it, it brought that warmth back again, fluttering thickly within his chest.

Despite their location, their lack of seclusion… Morax stepped forward and pressed his lips to the others, feeling him respond almost immediately, his head being tilted, his hands lacing the God’s back and waist, his own hooking beneath the taller mans’ arms as the feeling grew, the moment warming. His mind had shut off all thought, focused on simply enjoying the moment.

Jing Yuan appeared to have a mutual feeling as he pressed closer, beginning to crowd him back to the wall beside him, leaning into the kiss and deepening it-.

A loud gasp broke them, “You two are kissi-, Hey!” the God and General shot their gazes aside, seeing a small girl with Xiao’s hand over her eyes, said girl struggling against his restraint for a moment.

“You’re in ‘Public’, Rex Lapis…” the younger Adeptus grumbled, a tint to his cheeks.

Notes:

ARIGHT!! So the ending there, they WEREN'T gonna get sexy. It was just a lil' heated kiss because Morax started that one. And yes, Xiao is very done with them xD

I also may or may not have recently acquired an absolutely gorgeous genshin oc, an adult male, and I've been thinking of pairing him with either Alhaitham or or Wriothesley.
I'm so stuck on who to pair xD

Chapter 17

Notes:

This chapter was so damn fun!!!!

“You look so much like a Vidyadhara!” the young serpent, Bailu, was staring up at him with the largest eyes, filled with interest and curiosity. He could feel her questions simply by examining her expression while standing there a tad awkwardly within Ganyu’s office, standing with his hands behind his back alongside the General. Morax Not that he’d felt akin to being scolded, he warily eyed the Yaksha’s visibly exasperated demeanour upon catching them in the open. Admittedly, he did regret that he’d acted so boldly where anyone could simply walk by and it’d just so happened to be a child serpent and his own General…

“Amusingly, General Jing Yuan has referred to me as such quite a few times,” the God smiled warmly, watching as the young girl appeared to slowly round him, analysing his appearance with such a large grin. He’d followed her with his gaze for a moment and managed to catch the fraction of a flinch as he’d felt her hands grab the mid-section of his tail, tufting the fur along the spine.

“I can see why! Your traits are so similar! If I wasn’t so shocked seeing you kiss, I’d be shocked seeing the features!” at that, the God internally grimaced, having not wanted her to see something like that at her age, regardless that she could have been older than mortals at that point.

He swiftly zoned back into the moment upon feeling a tug to his robe near the front. Glancing down, his gaze met the far larger and bright ones, though they were peering… a tad higher? … ah. Morax shifted slightly and lowered until he was kneeling, resting an elbow against his bent knee while leaning slightly forward for her to be able to reach his horns. And no later did she reach up, grasping the large, multiple pointed horns adorning his skull with their black to gold glow.

“So big,” she beamed in awe, “They’re more like Antlers, instead of our horns,” the young reptile stated, Morax beginning to feel her stretch onto his toes to reach the peaks at the back of the horns.

“They’re dragon type horns, I assure you,” he chuckled softly, lowering as much as he could in that position for her. With a slight tilt of his head, he could very easily see that Jing Yuan had a hand over his mouth, covering his silent laughter at seeing the pair, he’d wager.

“Really?” she’d paused, lowering her hands as he lifted his head just slightly to catch her gaze. She seemed intrigued and the God could only humour her child like interest at the reaction. Her eyes had somehow grown wider, if that were possible.

“Indeed,” he replied with a soft smile, “I had a dragon form that had the same structure,” with mentioning the form, he reminded himself that he’d removed it to test his people. He was uncertain of if he could call upon it, but with how his abilities felt at his core, he was very likely unable to unless he could somehow absorb it once more.

“You had a dragon FORM?!” the young draconic girl gawked expressively. Thinking about it, he wasn’t sure if he could bring himself to. It was the original form of his Godly position when called upon and… admittedly, it was a hassle to continuously switch with how much energy it drained due to the sheer size difference.

“I did. I shed it a while ago,” he chuckled softly at her reaction. Despite her seemingly having finished her examination of his horns, he remained kneeling, being closer to eye level if she wasn’t as small as she was. And with his statement, she’d appeared a tad confused, her head tilting to the side while eyeing him.

“How d’you ‘shed’ a form?” young Bailu asked quizzically, a finger pressed to her chin at the thought. It was likely very hard to imagine and the General hadn’t told him whether or not the Vidyadhara had a dragon form. Then again, he surely would have if they did. So Morax assumed that they didn’t.

“I removed it,” he shrugged as if it were that simple. The Archon paused, a thought coming to mind. The body was still within the Golden House and though it would lengthen their time of being there by just a moment… He could steal that moment to speak privately with the two, and hopefully have a moment with Jing Yuan to…
“It’s currently guarded, displayed in private if you’d be interested in seeing it?” he’d offered and gradually straightened up, standing beside the General once more.

“Please!” in a blink, he’d seen the girl disappear behind him and into the hall. With a slight chuckle, the Archon turned and followed after her, his ears just barely catching the last few words shared in Ganyu’s office.

“It was a pleasure meeting you. Farewell,” the General had spoken smoothly and respectfully.

“Farewell,” a mix of Xiao’s and Ganyu’s voices replied in unison and not a moment later, Morax caught sight of the man following after him, keeping up as the young Vidyadhara was skipping ahead towards the exit.

The walk was slow, the two purposely making sure that the pace was leisurely and much akin to before, the God felt the man's hand brush his, catching his fingers in a gentle hold that brought a small smile to Morax’s lips. With the certainty that the few months apart would feel far too long, he’d anticipate the reunion, reminding himself of his gentle gestures and warm presence, the calm he’d brought the God in the short time he’d been with them..

From the Yuehai Pavilion to the bridge leading out of Chihu Rock’s market and food court, it was slow, calm, relaxing, though with a dash of sombre that their parting felt so close… Too close. Each step gave him the feeling that the time between them was lessening far too fast and the by the time it was tugging on the strings of his core, he’d led them to the left upon leaving the harbour, the Golden House being revealed as they turned the corner of the path he’d taken them.

The large structure was masterfully built into the mountain, showing the grand skills his nation honed over the centuries.

Morax led them further, though with the girl darting ahead excitedly. The guards appeared to question whether to stop her until their gaze landed on the Archon himself and she’d been free to run ahead towards the tall doors, the woman and scribes muttering amongst themselves awkwardly while eyeing the oncoming three.

Eventually, the God climbed the steps and the two guards at the door eased it open, revealing the dense change in atmosphere between the outside and inside…

Inside with the doors now closed behind them, it was noticeably darker, lit a deep golden by fire light, a place of calm warmth, a highly respected zone where silence was demanded by any who were not the Archon or the structure carers. 

“When inside, avoid volume. This structure was made for honouring,” Morax muttered, and even that sounded far above what was called for when within the walls. His gaze fell upon them, following the carved intricacy of the Gods, the Adeptal beings, the Yaksha, the warriors and those that had fallen through the aeons of war… Across from them was a tall cylindrical space, from top to bottom was displayed the grand form of a Geo serpent, a palette exact to Morax’s own shades his appearance had been adorned with. The golden glows to the deep browns and blacks. It was imposing, striking with how it stared. They’d done well to place it in a way where it still held its regality.

Contrary to what Morax had expected, the young Vidyadhara hadn’t said a word at first. She appeared so taken with it as they walked towards the centre of the room, the two stopping there while she continued, climbing the steps at the other end of the room to close in on the magnificent form.

A subtle glance to his side, he could see that the General was just as enthralled, his gaze fixed so firmly, his lips parted softly. A small smile crept across the Archon’s features, his own eyes focused on the man.

“I’d take on this form for a yearly event,” he’d started simply, “And before the end of the War, it was a form I’d use regularly to battle my opposition. Standing against ‘this’ could be compared to trying to fight a landslide with wooden weapons,” with its sheer size, natural strength, speed, durability, he’d used it when facing many at once. It had become a form that struck fear, to send his enemies into a reluctant concern to fight when word reached them that this form was seen in the area.

“It’s beautiful,” the young Vidyadhara spoke softly, transfixed. The hand in his own shifted its grip, brushing up his arm for a moment before he’d felt it move to his back. Returning his gaze to Jing Yuan, his stare was locked with the General’s, the man having been looking at him during the deep reminiscence.

“While it’s the three of us…” the man started, “Bailu, I’d like to speak with you regarding Lord Morax,” the God hummed softly in question and glanced towards the young draconic being as she appeared to be snapped from her daze.

“What's the matter with him? Does he need healing? Is he sick? Can a God even get sick?” she asked swiftly, turning to descend the steps quite fast as if to check for herself if he was alright.

“Nothing like that,” Jing Yuan corrected, “Are you able to recreate the teleportation ability at will?” Ah, the God saw where the man was leading the conversation. Morax smiled softly, glad that the talk was being had.

“Sorta, yeah. It’s hard, but I can do it. It’s how I got here-,” she paused, a moment of silence sifting between the three as it appeared that she’d caught on, and quite fast from the realisation crossing her face.
“Wait! Is he coming back with us?” she beamed, seemingly excited by the thought. And he wouldn’t comment on the volume as it echoed against the walls.

“Not right now, but in the near future…” he listened as the General trailed off, giving her an idea of what he was referring to. Morax felt the hand lace further along his back, drawing a tad closer, whether it was absentminded or not, he wasn’t quite sure.

“You hope to bring him home and marry him and stuff?” she caught on swiftly, though with a smirk playing on her lips as he glanced between them and crossed her arms across her small chest.

A soft sigh left the man beside him, “You’re making this far less romantic than I’d appreciate, but yes, in a sense,” the Archon fought the amused smile that threatened to appear, not wanting to add to Bailu’s entertained expression. It was an odd sight to see, their Dynamic was amusing and he could see why Xiao had had enough rather swiftly.

“Why can’t we bring him back with us ‘now’?” she’d asked simply and eyed the larger dragon, giving him a questioning stare and head tilt. Although it would be amazing to see their world at that moment of departure… he needed time, he needed to… calm himself.

“I need time to prepare for my leave, to be reassured that my nation is safe without me guiding them,” and it wasn’t only that… Years of being the Archon, he felt a winding level of responsibility to his home, his nation, to give them and himself time to process and register that he wouldn’t be there at their call, that he wouldn’t be able to answer them… that he wouldn’t be there to protect them. They had to take it upon themselves and even Morax struggled to think that he wouldn’t be there for them after the Chamber was weaponized.

“Being a God sounds like a lot of work,” she replied a tad flatly, drawing a chuckle from the Archon with that reaction. She wasn’t wrong, it could be a struggle, but mostly due to his state of mind over the last few centuries.

“To a point. But the positives tend to outweigh the negatives in my position,” he answered honestly. The goods usually outweighed the bad and it had only been recently that it had felt like too much. But then he knew that was likely due to how tired he’d become.

“Then… Why do you wanna come with us? Do you love him more than being a God?” at that, Morax felt a warmth rise to his chest, spreading to his face.

“Yes,” he’d replied without hesitance, feeling the hand at his back just briefly shift. He ‘did’ feel for him and he did consider it a form of love. They were deep, regardless of how little time he’d shared with him, but with her question…
“I can’t compare him to my nation, it’s a different feeling, but I do consider my feelings to be that strong,” the Archon added as a way to correct himself. His love for his nation and his love for the General weren’t the same.

The hand shifted once more, putting some pressure on his stance. He glanced towards Jing Yuan and felt himself being drawn closer, the two facing each other and to his mild surprise, he was hugged. The man's arms were laced around his back and shoulders, his face buried against his neck and that simply built the heat in his face, a soft smile gracing his lips as he lifted his arms to return the embrace, pressing his face to the crook of the man's neck.

Had he thought it would make him that happy, it might have been worth saying it while they’d shared their time atop Mt. Hulao.

“Old men love,” the younger being grimaced, her tone giving it away, “When d’you think I should come back to get you?” with her question, the God reluctantly lifted his head to eye her, genuinely taking a moment to think on it as the General lifted his own face from his person, though he didn’t appear to want to let go of him. Morax wouldn’t deny him the intimacy.

“Considering the amount that needs to be done, I’d hazard a guess it’d be a few months, maybe Three? Four?” as long away as it sounded, it’d give him time to be sure that the nation was safe and would give him the time to get as much prepared as possible for his leave. The Jade Chamber would likely only need two months, but that amount of time would aid them if there were any delays.

“... Alright, then we’ll come back in four months,” Bailu nodded, her tone being firm.
“You get ONE kiss before I take us back,” she’d added, pointing a single finger towards them before she swiftly turned away, as if to give them some form of privacy.

Morax had been about to voice a question before feeling a hand press against the back of his neck, catching his attention. He’d not had the chance to say a word before Jing Yuan pressed his lips to his own, cutting off any thought and drawing a soft gasp from him. Almost immediately, the heat returned, warming his face and thensome when feeling the hot swipe of the others against his lips, a silent promise with the motion as he’d been pressed against, his spine being arched by the heavy hand keeping him close.

…He’d managed to swallow down any sound that had threatened to leave him as a wave of warmth washed through him, his hands moving to cradle the General’s jaw and neck. Regardless of what the young Vidyadhara had said, he’d responded to each of Jing Yuan’s kisses, one after another and after another, and still, he fought to stay silent, only able to catch his breath in between each tail-tip curling kiss.

“Ooooooookay!” her voice caught them, halting them. Morax panted softly, feeling the General’s own against his lips. His forehead lightly pressed to the others as his gaze opened, half lidded and he genuinely believed that he appeared as lightly flushed as the white haired man. Had he told the man that he was beautiful?

“Four months to this day!” Morax blinked at her statement, reluctant to let go of the other and it appeared that the man was struggling a tad as well before they really did gradually retract their hands.

“Four months,” the Archon repeated softly, trying to keep the saddened ache from reaching his tone as they stepped further apart, the Vidyadhara stopping short of the General. She’d lifted her hands and smiled at the God before seemingly straining, a moment passing and then shocking the being by summoning an almost whirlpool effect around them, the wall of water growing and growing, sealing together at the very top.

He watched in awe as the violet waters began to grow narrower around the two, making them impossible to see with the increase in speed. The water shrunk dramatically, balling up and then-.

A soft splash of water dropped to the floors of the Golden house… and the two were gone. Morax stared at the space ahead of him, where they had been. The inner corners of his eyes stung just slightly, seemingly wanting to drip, but the God fought it, reminding himself of the time he had left until he’d be able to see them again, to see Jing Yuan again.

He swallowed thickly, taking a few deep breaths to compose himself and stave off the growing thrum of a headache from refusing to let himself grieve their departure…

Morax had work to do.

Notes:

Aright so this one was fun and painful towards the end, but this gives me a great lead into the next chapter. It'll be focused on Jing Yuan in the next one.

Also an update, I've started working on the Wriothesley/Neuvillette story, but I won't be starting to post it until after this one is finished.
I've also decided that the arranged marriage one will be a Zhongli/Dan Heng story, because I really like the ideas I had for that pairing.

Also, Bailu is so going to think of Morax as an adopted dad after this xD

Chapter 18

Notes:

This was a genuine surprise to me too. I didn't expect to double post today!!

To confirm the theories that he and Morax had accumulated, time worked in sync between their worlds. The few days that had passed in Teyvat had passed in the time zone that had been set upon the Luofu.

For the moment that he had appeared in the training yard with the Dragon Lady, not only did Yanqing rush over from where he’d been training solo, a handful of guards and a few others rushed to his side, fretting over the time he’d been gone, hurtling question after question and asking how he fared and if he had any wounds to be treated.

All in all, they were all quite shocked to hear that he was perfectly fine, if only a tad disoriented due to the method of travel. He’d hazard a guess that he hadn't passed out this time due to acclimatising the portation thanks to the Waypoints. Luckily, none of them would have to deal with an unconscious General, and he wouldn’t have wanted that. Not with his Retainer there to see it.

And much to the few days away, as expected, his desk and worklog were overwhelmingly stacked, piled high enough that he could feel the twitch of his brow at the assumption that the Diviner did nothing with the files that came in to be seen too. Clearly the title was the only thing she wanted from his position. Yanqing had clearly attempted to help as was said by a couple of the staff within his office. He’d tried his hand at it and had done some of it in an attempt to make it easier for him. Which he was quite proud of.

Throughout the day and a few days following, the General had spent a lot of his time sitting at his desk, feeling the joint stiffness in his legs here and there and had stood, pacing at the window before returning to his seat to work. And despite where his mind wandered, the workload gradually eased up. He might have given Yanqing a few far easier jobs depending on which files he’d picked up to work through and to his delight, the boy had done a good job.

There was still so much to work through…

Jing Yuan sighed heavily and leaned back in his chair and stretched some before relaxing, staring up at the ceiling for a very long moment. With how much work was left to him, he felt as though working through a night might have helped him ease up the amount for a day or two, but then his sleeping pattern would be askew and then he’d be that much more exhausted the next day. That wouldn’t do well for his mind when he required it to be sharp…

“General?” the man's gaze slowly shifted, his head tilting to see his Retainer stood there watching him, his eyes wavering, as if hesitant. He wasn’t quite sure what led to his hesitance, but nevertheless, there was a spark of curiosity in his stance.

“Yes, Yanqing,” he replied, giving the boy his chance to speak as Jing Yuan forced himself to straighten up and stand, his hands pressed to the table for a moment. It would be good to stretch his legs again, he’d been sitting for some time again.

“Are you alright?” the question itself was also hesitant, it wasn’t the one he’d wanted to ask. It was his Retainer after all, a question that simple wasn’t within his characteristics.

“I’m fine,” he replied just as simply, but then… “And your other question?” he smirked lazily and rounded his chair to meander towards the window, feeling the joints loosen up rather swiftly as he stopped short of the glass and glanced towards the bright loom of clouds, the structural reinforcement around the Luofu.

“... What was it like there?” came his question. A good one, one that instantly supplied him with imagery of the beauty that was Liyue. He’d told the boy that it'd been another realm, another location of another world that he had been sent to thanks to the Dragon Lady’s shocking ability. But that had been it, he’d needed the chance to re-settle after his return.

“Golden,” he replied slowly, “There’s a mineral only local to the nation of Liyue known as Cor Lapis, and when the setting sun hits it just right, the nation glows a golden hue. The blanket of water surrounding it appears alike. Starskiff of the water seemingly sail through an ocean of gold. The mountains loom powerfully over the land, towering feats that hold strong against their odds. The grass isn’t green, but rather a dry brown, lighter than the neighbouring nations, but it portrays the power of Geo, even emphasises it,” he smiled softly, his mind wandering to the Lord.

“Geo? Like… stones? Earth?” the boy asked quizzically, his voice growing closer, stopping beside him. Jing Yuan glanced to his side, seeing the awe in his bright wide eyes, he seemed as transfixed as the General when he’d listened to the stories of the land from the Archon himself.

“Yes,” he nodded, “Each of these nations have an element. I found myself in the nation of Geo, known as Liyue. Each of these nations bears a God of that element… He’s the one that showed me that it shone Gold during dusk,” his smile grew, remembering that he himself had shone with the light of the setting sun.

“You met the nation's God?” Yanqing gawked, his excitement seeming to grow. That childlike wonder was so strong with the boy, so easy to read. It almost gave him the urge to consider asking if he wished to join them on their return once the four months were up. He’d have to think about it.

“I did. He’s known as the Geo Archon. His name is Morax, while his Honorific name is Rex Lapis,” he informed warmly, a brief thought coming to mind to add some amusement to the moment.
“He has his own General, a Yaksha, a being of elemental power over wind. Although he’s very powerful, he’s not that much taller than you. His appearance is that of a young boy, yet he’d gained the absolute pride of Morax,”

“He has a General that’s my age? Or at least my height?!” the boy was stunned, fuel having been added to the fire. Rather than be put down by the idea of a boy near enough his size being a General, it seemed to motivate. The spark in his eye had returned full force within that moment.

“Indeed. He’s quite fierce,” the man mentioned simply, watching him burn on the spot.

“I’d like to train, General. May I be excused?” at that, Jing Yuan chuckled, nodding and not even a second later, the boy was darting off towards the steps and then doors. He was gone within mere moments and he’d chuckled again before returning to his desk, lowering and sitting once more with the file still open ahead of him, words staring back at him waiting to be read.

They were left unread.

Another sigh left the man as he relaxed back in his chair, eyeing the words but not processing them to continue his work. Although it was a short conversation, his mind was fixed on the God. Only a few days and his mind was still filled with him, the ‘want’ to introduce him to his own quarters, to wake to him, to give him that longed for retirement and want for nothing…

Waking up to Morax in his bed… A morning smile… Jing Yuan would want for nothing, if only to have that be his morning.

A soft hum left the man, his gaze refocusing after repeating the image in a loop within his very vivid mind. He’d get nowhere with his work if he continued to distract himself-... No, If Morax continued to distract him. He’d absolutely struggle until the being was within reach of him.

Showing him the views of the Luofu, introducing him to his closest. Yanqing would likely bombard him with questions, especially regarding his General after that momentary musing. He’d have to get Bailu’s opinion on whether or not he should ask for the Retainer’s company on their return to Teyvat. He’d likely very much enjoy the trip and get to see what very many others will never witness. That, and it would be interesting to see the boys reaction to the young General.

Jing Yuan lifted a hand to his face, rubbing the bridge of his nose and proceeded to straight up, planning to return to his work. He’d have finished nothing by the time the four months had passed.

---

The next day had been a repeat of the last. He’d arrived at his office, eyed the still towering stacks of files to be seen to and began his work only to pace to avoid the stiffness and to refresh his mind. Said refreshment being the memories of Teyvat, or at least the two nations he’d had the pleasure of visiting, and with Yanqing continuing his questions as he’d realised that the General was far more relaxed to answer him after the few days to acclimatise.

It was quite nice to give him an idea of the land he’d visited and had even listened intently upon some titbits of information on what he’d been told of the wars the Archon had been a part of. He hadn’t touched the topic of the stone table and stools, nor would he. Those were moments of personal mourning, sharing his sadness of his loss while showing that he felt more for Jing Yuan, so much so that he’d allowed him the sight of vulnerability of a powerful being.

And… through more days, this had been his routine. Wake up, work, walk, reminisce, work and return to his chambers, though there were times where he paused to give his Retainer a thorough training session and give himself time in the sun. It was those days that he’d begrudgingly stayed a tad later than usual, if only to catch up and get more done.

The repetition was tiring to say the least and as another two weeks rolled by, the General had avoided the path to the office and had found himself at Scalegorge so early in the morning. Like many other days he’d find himself there, Jing Yuan gazed up at the beauty that was Dan Feng, the statue bearing down on the parted waters holding a shadow of a sea serpent, he watched as it loomed by, following the motion of the ocean. The utter power that Dan Heng held at his fingertips to keep it parted regardless of where he travelled.

The Vidyadhara lair, the beautiful water encased isle, the eggs spotted here and there, waiting for the next birth of a future High Elder.

A soft sigh slipped his lips as he gazed at the features of an old friend, chipped from years lacking repair. Given time, he’d offer a thought of positioning a repair of the statue and Gorge. It was a history loved and lost and he knew that even Bailu would love to venture deeper to learn more of her own history… He could include Morax, given that they could very easily pass him off as an Earthly Vidyadhara. Though that would be a thought for the God to consider.

“General?” his thoughts were paused, his gaze drifting to the stairs leading into the Gorge. They widened briefly, seeing a very unexpected sight of Dan Heng climbing the rest of the stairs to the surface, his stare firmly planted on the man.

“Dan Heng. An unexpected pleasure,” he smiled warmly, forcing the atmosphere he naturally held. He didn’t want him seeing the tired air or sombre he’d felt over the last few weeks.

“The others and I have been here for a few days,” the reincarnation supplied, breaking Jing Yuan’s shield. He deflated, surprised that he’d missed their arrival. He’d been so busy with the files and paperwork that he mustn’t have heard anyone announcing them.

“Ah, apologies. I’ve been buried in work of late,” he lowered his head in respect as the other closed the distance and stopped short of him. Although it wasn’t surprising, he’d seen that the boy had taken to adorning his revealed appearance, the one that was strikingly mirrored to his old friend.

“That’s a surprise. You’re usually quite efficient,” Dan Heng muttered, crossing his arms over his chest as he also turned towards his preincarnation. The way he eyed the statue, the gloom in his gaze. Jing Yuan knew the look, and sadly, he held the same expressions as the one he was staring at, the need to know more but was left unanswered.

“I’m uncertain if you’ve heard, but I’d been missing for a few days a few weeks ago. The work piled up,” he snorted softly, hoping to draw his attention so that he didn’t stew. And with the shock that crossed his face…
“With that expression, I’d say you weren’t aware,” he chuckled quietly.

“We weren’t!” Dan Heng flustered, drawing closer with a pinched browline, “Are you alright?” the young man asked, now standing in the General’s space, eyeing him over as if that would aid him in finding wounds.

“I am,” Jing Yuan replied smoothly, lifting a hand to his shoulder to reassure. It was then that he reminded himself of his time in Teyvat once again, a warm smile gracing his lips.
“More than alright, actually,” his free hand lifted to his neck where he rubbed lightly. Again, the look he received, the young man was clearly confused and curious while watching him.

With a soft sigh, he allowed his smile to grow.

“I’d been whisked away by an ability that Bailu tapped into, an accident, I assure you. But where I’d ended up, a being found me,” the General informed simply with a slight shrug, earning himself a dubious stare and frown from the shorter man.

“A being?” the Vidyadhara tilted his head in question, his hair falling over his shoulder with the motion.

“An Archon, their term for ‘A God’,” the young man’s gaze grew wide immediately, “A God had found me. Amusingly, he was adorned with many features similar to Vidyadhara that I’d mistakenly referred to him as one for quite some time,” another soft chuckle left him, recalling the pure curiosity from the Archon upon hearing the word.

“He didn’t reprimand you, did he?” Dan Heng rushed, his frown growing a tad heavy. One would think he genuinely cared for his safety and didn’t feel an ounce of bitterness considering what Jing Yuan had forced on this young man…

“No, nothing like that. If anything, he was amused and I eventually explained what I knew of the species,” the General replied, again, recalling the interest, the golden stare of transfixed attention. Those eyes had bore through him, striking him. The diamonds focused on him as he’d explained and the way his lengthened ears seemed to twitch just slightly when something he’d said piqued his curiosity…

The Archon listened so intently each time Jing Yuan had opened his mouth. When he’d begun his descriptions of his Flagship and the locations it carried, the whole of his attention was fixed on him, as if he truly had been the only thing there worth his focus.

“You seem taken with him,” at the short sentence, the General returned from his thoughts, his lips parted slightly, his gaze growing softer.

“I am…” he admitted with a smooth, deep voice, “So much so that the few days we’d spent together, I’ve fallen quite far for him,” he hadn’t had the chance to tell him in return within those last minutes. He’d hoped that the kiss had conveyed his desires.

“I assume that you parted on good terms?” the Vidyadhara asked, the General feeling the younger man's hand rest on his wrist that was still lightly placed on the shorter being’s shoulder. Amusingly, he’d thought of introducing the two upon the Gods arrival.

“With some interesting turn of events, within a few months, we’ll be travelling to retrieve him and  relocating him here,” Jing Yuan smiled with his very blunt statement, and not a second later did he see the utter shock upon processing the sentence, the look of ‘You cannot be seriously?!’ crossing the young man's features.

“Wha-, why?” Dan Heng gawked, his mouth agape. There was some understanding. He’d hazard a guess that the Express weren’t as lenient with allowing transfers between worlds. He’d have to ask his opinion on the matter after he retrieved Morax, simply to quell some curiosity.

“For a while, he’s been planning to step down from being an Archon and it was purely timing that we crossed paths,” Jing Yuan lowered his gaze, genuinely glad for the coincidental turn of events.
“I… truly hadn’t expected that we’d…” he couldn’t seem to find the right term. There were quite a few that would have fitted so well.

“Fall for each other?” Dan Heng supplied flatly, clearly feeling his own emotions for this situation. Mostly seeming quite done with Jing Yuan and his shenanigans.

“As cliché as it may sound,” he chuckled in return and slowly crossed his arms over his chest, as did the other.

“It sounds sweet,” the Vidyadhara sighed deeply, absolutely appearing done with him. The General gave him a warm smile, the urge returning from a moment ago. As much as he’d like the other to enjoy his time with his friends and the express…

“Dan Heng,” Jing Yuan drew his attention once more, “Three months from today, would you be willing to return? I’d like to introduce you to Morax,” he requested as gently as he could, seeing the tired exasperation pinch at his brow again.

“I’m not Dan Fe-,”

“I know,” the General spoke up, not wanting him to misunderstand.
“I’d like to introduce you as Dan Heng,” he smiled warmly, watching the young man seemingly relax upon registering the sentence, beginning to nod.

“Alright… I’ll be sure to inform the Express of the date and be here,” the other sighed, blinking up at the General with a deadpan expression.

Notes:

Aright, so this one was really damn fun because I got to add both Yanqing and Dan Heng. I do recall a couple of people commenting that they wanted him and Morax to meet, so here you go ;)

AND YES!! I put it in a series since I have a few other cross-pairing ideas. You can see a few in the series description.

Also, outta curiosity, I wanna see who actually reads my notes, so if you do, please type "Geo Daddy" somewhere in your comment so that I know. It'll help me decide on whether I should type my thoughts here like rn, or just give related titbits to the story.

Chapter 19

Notes:

I gave Jing Yuan 3k+ words, I had to give Morax the same!!

Much like every other day, the Archon had found himself at the peak of Mt. Aocang, sitting at the stone table where his name had been engraved so many centuries prior. He gazed at the cups, gazed at the spots where his friends had once joined him. He could envision them, imagine their presence, recall their gleeful bantering and amused commentary. He could… remember their voices so clearly, so vividly, both usually finding a way to draw amusement from something Morax had done and more often than not, it would have turned into playful mockery and good natured jabs that none of them took seriously.

Guizhong would have been the one to start it, given their inseparability during their youth. With how close they’d been, she undoubtedly had the most knowledge of him, had even influenced him many-a-time over during their Adeptal years… She’d been kind, caring, considerate, knowledgeable. So much so that she’d taught him to care, to be kind, to be considerate. Not only did she teach him the fun of trivia, she’d taught him patience, to allow thoughtful consideration to breed understanding. Despite him having the power of the element, she had been his Rock, his tether to hope, love and life.

Guizhong had been his one, she’d carried his love…

So many thousands of years spent with her at his side, co-ruling the nation far before the Archon War and the earn of his title. As the God of Contract, that had been the most valued throughout his time, though unspoken from the start… but it had been cut short with her death…

Of all the times that she had followed him, agreed with him, joined him regardless of the outcome, she had unconditionally been at his side.

“Care to join me, Morax?” her voice rang deep within his bones…

“Care to join me, Morax?” he paused, his expression softening upon recalling a far deeper voice.

Jing Yuan’s own voice, his words mirroring Guizhong. A gentle smile tugged at his lips, his gaze closing. His former love, his newly felt love… The invitation to join the man, the offer of freedom from his chains, to join him at his side. To be his…

“The years spent fighting for a throne unwanted in the end, only to lose you before my reign, Guizhong,” he muttered quietly, his fingers brushing the spot of his cup, his gaze fixed on the spot.
“Would you hate me for where my heart has turned…” a soft frown graced his features, an ache crawling along his core to think that the centuries of battle had been in vain, that he’d lost her… in vain.

“One would have stayed within another nation had One known that you wallowed in self pity outside of One's abode,” Morax paused once more, listening, feeling the air, feeling the care despite the words. Slowly, the Archon straightened up, though only to cross his arms against the edge of the table rather casually.

“Cloud Retainer,” he spoke with a small smile and the God lifted his gaze as she appeared within his sight, a very different appearance to the Adeptus catching his eye.

She appeared far different, adorning a humanoid face. Long navy blue hair with a mint green underlayer was pulled high into a ponytail, a feather pin slipped into the trinket where her hair was tied. Her bangs were parted a tad to the side, pulled back over her ears and covering them. Red thin glasses were gently framed against her nose, doing nothing to hide the crystal teal eyes. Her skin below was somewhat transparently hidden by a dark, thin, silken bodysuit beneath a black dress with multiple tails at the base, calf low in length and adorned with fluid stripe patterns leading to the parted tails, golden stripes designed at her sides. Her shoulders and neck were covered by bright teal loose feather’y like cloth and the backs were far longer, following her tall frame, the front, one side bearing a golden ornament and the other, a red infinity knot with loose furls. Additionally, a golden three cloverleaf knot hung from her neck, the forth appearing to be loose and hung much akin to a tie. Her hands were braced with thin fabric guards and… amusingly, she had claws.

“I assumed you’d decline my call,” Morax mentioned, mostly joking. He eyed her, seeing the flat stare she’d given following the statement. Understandably, no Adeptus had ever refused his calls, regardless of the matter in which he’d requested their presence.

“One would have, but One knows you don’t personally call upon Adepti unless it’s important,” the woman deadpanned, staring as she usually would have before glancing away to the empty space at their table. Much akin to Morax, she’d been known to sit in her own silence, watching the spot…

“You look amazing,” the Archon muttered softly and slowly tilted his head towards her once, eyeing the way she’d straightened up her posture upon being complimented so forwardly.

“One does. But to the manner of this meeting,” the Adeptus returned his gaze, leaving Morax pinned by her sharp, keen, knowing eye. He’d lowered his arms from the table, resting his hands within his lap, cradling his palms together. He’d always shifted under her scrutiny. Regardless of the age gap between them, she’d always made him feel mothered in some sense.

His frown had returned, well aware that he had called for her for this very reason. It’d taken a lot of self-encouragement to request her presence to inform her, though he theorised that she was likely aware due to her two mutual acquaintances…

Either way, he’d wanted to explain the situation to her himself… for a specific reason.

“I’m stepping down as Archon,” he’d finally mentioned, his gaze digging into the stone of the table where the cups sat empty. 

“Yes, the assumption had been made, but why?” at her question, Morax opened his mouth to reply only to close it a moment later. He wasn’t sure how to explain the situation, how to explain why he wanted so badly to de-rank himself. He’d wanted to for some time, but the reason had grown in strength…
“Is it the stranger that Shenhe saw you with?” Morax lifted his stare to her, the crane's unreadable gaze was so penetrating, so curious, yet so knowing of his struggle despite the lack of information. Her observational prowess was beyond impressive still.

“It is…” the Archon admitted with a slow nod, “He came to me in a time where I want nothing more than to retire from my position… and to a world where I’m unknown as the Geo Archon, or the God of Contracts or even as an Adeptus,” that… that was the cause of so much relief, not only to be with him, but to be where none knew him as some grand title, where he would simply ‘be’.

“Where pressure would not weigh so heavily on your constant presence,” again, her understanding flowed, “Then One would advise that you leave with him,” as blunt as ever, she’d spoken so finally, so easily speaking her mind to his want to be away from his title.

“Upon his return to this world,” Morax assured, “The Jade Chamber is almost finished and I’m almost prepared for him… but…” he trailed off, his frown deepening, “One thing still plagues me,” with a soft sigh, the God lifted his hand to his chest, a bright golden glow consuming the palm of his hand where he’d pressed. The glow continued as he removed his hand from the spot, holding something that drew a short breath from the Adeptus.

“Your Gnosis,” she breathed, her tone betraying her calm, “Would it not be best to take it with you?” she’d added swiftly, her gaze still focused as he gradually set it to stand upright on the table in front of him.

“This doesn’t belong in his world. It’s the titleship that comes with protecting this nation,” the Archon spoke firmly, staring at the small yet powerful artefact shining against the surface so intricately. The beauty was vast, almost its own version of a crown if not for the actual power it possessed over the title. A King was a King, the Crown was heavy. But a Gnosis… it was akin to a crown coupled with chains. Given the different elements as Adepti, she would still bear her freedom to soar rather than be grounded by shackles like himself.

A sigh drew his attention, “This is why One was called,” the exasperation in her tone was quite evident, well aware of what the God was requesting of her and how sensitive a situation this had become… He was asking too much, he was very aware.

“Yes,” Morax replied slowly, resting his hands against the table once more, “I can’t give it to Xiao. He’s already dealing with his own struggles. Both Ganyu and Yanfei are unable due to their halfborn status. Shenhe would be a fine candidate… but she’s mortal. You’re the only one I could think of that would be able to bear this as an Adeptus of age, experience and power. It won’t shackle you as it did myself,” the God stared at the core, his golden gaze fixed deeply.

“... You’re sure of this, Morax,” her eyes pinned him once more. And he was very sure. Without the link to Celestia, he would never run the risk of Celestia’s stare being cast his way again. The contrast they held over him would be unattainable, regardless that he would remain to keep his end of them. As selfish as it sounded to himself.

“I’m sure. On the very last day I spend within Liyue, I request that you obtain my Gnosis,” the moment he’d said it, there has been a spark of doubt, a slight ache… from the Gnosis itself, as if simply announcing it would bring down Celestia’s wrath. But in his years as the Archon, he knew that they could not see nor hear. He’d tested the limitations himself.

The ache was simply a phantom feeling of the item leaving an empty space within his core. He’d felt it before, and the thought of his freedom would fill it just as fast upon leaving.

“Do you require a formal contract?” the crane asked after a long moment of silence between them, her gaze having been fixed on the Gnosis the entire time while in thought, as he had also been due to that feeling.

“No. I will not add consequence if you see fit to pass it to another… This is a request from a friend,” Morax reassured, slowly reaching a hand across the stone table, palm facing up in invitation. He wouldn’t cause her pain or inflict her with any form of contract punishment. He held no bitter thought as he’d trusted her judgement… The moment it’d leave his core and would be safely secured with Cloud Retainer, he’d have no say as to what she chose to do with it.

“Then One shall honour this request,” the Adeptus smiled softly, the Archon feeling her hand pressed down against his own, sharing the moment of the agreement with a gentle appreciation. He couldn’t thank her enough for her aid, and to see her once more. She’d truly followed him through his thickest and thinnest of plight.

“When do you plan on departing?” was her next question as the crane straightened up. She appeared curious again, her head tilted much akin to a quizzical feline.

“A month by tomorrow's date,” Morax replied as he returned the Gnosis to his core, feeling that stone cold spark of its connection. He sighed deeply and returned his crossed arms to the edge of the table.
“The time has passed quite fast, though I’d say that the non-stop work has kept me quite busy until recently,” he’d done a lot in the three months. He’d hired a few extra hands within the Yuehai Pavilion to take on share responsibility, the Golden House had been… talked about with Lady Ningguang. They’d come to an agreement… or at least a compromise.

The woman had pushed him a few more times about an extension to honour the God. A few too many times and he’d indeed cracked. Rather than a hall with many statues throughout Liyue, they’d reluctantly agreed to ONE STATUE placed within the Golden House, in place of his Exuvia… which he’d agreed to absorb some time within the four months. He’d planned to do it once the Chamber had been finished… With the delay, it would still be completed before his leave, but…

“Something still ails you?” he re-zoned himself, his gaze lifting to her once more with the question. Again, she’d read him well, though he feared the thoughts had been far more evident with the feel of the frown on his brow.

“... Yes,” Morax nodded slowly, “Although the Jade Chamber is almost complete, despite the delay, I’m not reassured of its capability in combat. There’ll be no evidence of its success rate upon my departure. While I have faith in Lady Ningguang’s abilities and judgement, she is still mortal. The Chamber would need to be tested and if it were to fail…” he explained and trailed off, lifting a hand to his face to rest his chin against his knuckles.

“Then you would be unable to leave due to your exceedingly high need to take responsibility,” the Adeptus crane replied, finishing his sentence rather bluntly with that playful jab at his level of morals. He’d admit to the feeling, she’d read him rather well in that regard. Despite it, he’d tested them prior, but as of this second chance, he had no way to test them and he wouldn’t put them through another battle against Osial.

“In short, yes,” the Archon sighed, agreeing to her jab as well, “Unfortunately, I feel as though leaving without knowing if it would be a successful defence would be irresponsible of me-,”

“I have a thought,” at that, his gaze snapped to her, confused as to what must have come to mind, but before he could question her, she stood from her stool and began walking away.
“Do not follow!” she’d ordered as Morax had stood to follow, leaving him there in his silence before disappearing from the area. He blinked, humming softly.

As much as he’d like to know where her thoughts had taken her, he did well to listen and returned his gaze to the table, his fingers brushing along its rim. A soft sigh left him, his own thoughts returning him to the issue he faced regarding the defences… He’d wanted to check in quite a few times, but Lady Ningguang had declined him as many times as he’d brought up the notion.

And with having almost finished, save for the Exuvia, now that Cloud Retainer knew and had agreed to his request, that was all that he had left to deal with. The day was still early…

With nothing else to do, the next job to finalise his workless time remaining in Liyue, the Exuvia.

Morax stepped away from the table and made his way towards the Waypoint, planning to port directly to the Golden House rather than to another portation device. He reached out once he was within reach and felt the flash take him, warming him before it was gone within a blink, feeling the rush pass by.

Opening his eyes, he was standing along the path with water on either side of it, the guards standing at attention still with the large building looming over. A soft breath escaped him, his nerves tingling as he started the short walk to the doors, passing the guards and another set sooner after. He’d climbed the steps one by one, watching as the scribes and assistants bowed at his arrival, as they usually did.

“Lord,” the elder man greeted him at the door as they were eased open by the Millelith, appearing to be gleeful as he stepped closer.

“It is time I fulfil my agreement with Lady Ningguang,” Morax stated simply, aware that those within the Golden House Guard and Staff knew of it. They’d been warned ahead of time that he had come to a compromise with the highly ranked woman.

“Understood, Rex Lapis,” the old mortal lowered his head in respect, being about to follow him if it weren’t for the Gods' pause in stride to point out his reluctance to have him within. Said man backed up with a smile, disappearing as the doors were closed behind the Archon. And within the dark, golden gloom of the building, the dragon's form was still powerfully perched across the way.

Slowly, he glanced along the wall, beginning to stride the outer edge of the space, his hand lifting to brush along the metal carvings, lightly ghosting along fallen features, avoiding the images of their foes during the battle. A gap was between two of the tall engravings and his fingers paused just slightly on the Yaksha, minus Xiao… A space was there though, an empty space as at the time, they had feared his death at the hands of the Karmic debt, yet he still fought it so dutifully.

Before he knew it, the Archon had passed the half of the ring, his gaze lifting to the towering frame of his Exuvia, the long, stone serpent form he’d shed… He’d been uncertain of whether he could absorb it, and though he still held that uncertainty, there was still that remembrance of the form when he’d taken it. He had it far before his rise to Archon, it belonged to him as Morax, not to him as The Archon.

He swallowed, taking a breath, and then lifted a hand, splaying his fingers as he came into contact with the thickly scaled draconic form. Feeling its misleadingly rough looking appearance, the scales were smooth, from one to the next with a soft seam linking the scales. Despite that, it was such a durable form, a shielded one… the embodiment of Geo, the form before his humanoid appearance.

Pressing firmly, he focused, frowning, breathing shallow to draw in the power, to draw in the form that glowed gold, growing brighter and brighter, sparking, flashing and then-.

Morax felt his entire body light with a sharp pain thrum through him, only once, but it was harsh enough that he’d been internally struck, dropping to his knees and then falling to his side with his arms swiftly wrapped around himself, teeth clenched, eyes squeezed shut.

As fast as it had come, it’d taken its time to leave. Morax winced, curling in on himself while panting softly, swallowing against the dull after-ache of his system.

It had taken longer for him to be able to open his eyes and unclench his teeth, his gaze falling upon the empty area where the Exuvia once stood… That was what he’d felt. Retaking the form had shocked his system… With a slow breath, trying to reign in his calm, he slowly, achingly, pushed himself up, curling his leg beneath him to sit upright, and a moment longer, he glanced down at his hands. Wanting to test it, he forced his hands to change, the claws, the scales, the glow of gold seams, his hands had changed, confirming the forms' presence.

“And now for the statue…” he sighed, his gaze lifting to the spot once more.

Notes:

This one, I genuinely wanted to give him the form back, only because dragon forms are badass.

- With the timeframe, I know it's a tad rushed? But I wanted to give an idea on how long they're lasting without each other before the epic stuff happens that leads to the end of this story. As you can tell, Morax's been busy. And Ningguang's gotten her way! XD
- Needed to add Xianyun/Cloud Retainer. Had to happen, was mandatory.

Also, there was a comment a few chapters ago that did catch my attention. I won't add it to this story specifically, it'd be a one-off.
- But would any of you be interested in a short one-off thing where Morax could end up with a kid? Jing Yuan's kid, obviously.
-I wasn't entirely sure about it when I replied and wanted your take. (I'll likely write it either way, just wanna see what you think.)

Chapter 20

Notes:

A bit of a surprise with this one. It actually reached a fraction over 4k in words. Lucky you guys ;)

To say that he was surprised would have been a grand understatement. Not only had he been barred from the Jade chamber by Lady Ningguang herself upon its finalisation, Ganyu and Xiao had even stated that they could not elaborate on why, not that they didn’t know the answer to his questions, but that they simply could not inform him. Even the other Adepti appeared to be hiding something, and it had been upon Cloud Retainers return a week and four days after their initial meeting…

“Twenty days,” Morax stressed quietly, lifting his hands to almost hug himself, lightly gripping his elbows and the space above. His nerves were running wild, his mind filled with the concept of truly leaving his position and finding comfort in his freedom… comfort with Jing Yuan.

Just the thought of the days left being so few churned him, the worry, the fear, the stressful thought of something happening to cut that future from his path-.

“Stop,” he frowned deeply, his eyes closed. The God lifted his hands to his face, taking a few deep breaths in the dark silence surrounding him. The simple negative thoughts were liable to thwart his ‘should be’ elated anticipation in dethroning himself to leave, to be with the man that had sent his core into such an unbelievable array of emotion.

The Archon rubbed his temples a moment before lowering his hands to his desk once more, staring down at the very empty table. He lingered, still awed that this would have been one of the few times he’d seen it so clear under the files and papers strewn around. And glancing at the rest of the room, it was just as shockingly bare after all the work he’d put in to making sure he left nothing unfinished upon his departure… He wouldn’t let that effort be ruined by his negative fears. For all he knew, he’d be sitting and waiting for the day, or taking his last few strolls through the nation for the next twenty days.

Either way, far less than a month and he had nothing to do besides patiently waiting for that very day to arrive and with there being no means of distraction… he had only his thoughts… especially when it appeared that the Archon had been barred from interacting with the others. They’d seemed quite busy thanks to Lady Ningguang’s requests, even Xiao had begun tending to whatever she’d asked of him.

It had to be the Jade chamber. Though it had been finished, he’d been quite aware of the hustle and bustle regarding it from a handful of others. Cloud Retainer being one and she’d dragged the seafarer into the fray. Which had been odd to note that upon Miss Beidou’s return, the Crane had been with her and the Captain hadn’t seemed pleased by something while Cloud Retainer appeared as elated as ever.

… Attempting to ask would be in vain as they all appeared to want to avoid explaining anything to him. Then again, he could theorise that most are trying to avoid involving him due to his position. His leaving would be a logical cause for them being reluctant to include him in business.

It was understandable, he supposed…

A soft sigh left the Archon, his tail lightly batting the leg of his chair. Morax really had nothing else to do. The dragon form and the statue had been the last few objectives before he’d been freed of work and the assistants of the Pavilion had done well to take on whatever else had been sent into the building. That had taken so much work from him, so much so that he had reached the point of End, where his paperwork had been concerned.

Maybe he could have found a way to thank the newly appointed staff, and the old, of course. They’d worked so hard.

The God glanced towards the window, blinking at the bright light of the sun shining through and casting its glow. With it being such a nice day, it’d have been worth a stroll, it wasn’t as if he had much else to do considering his situation. He thought for a long moment, heading tilting while still gazing at the light…

“A walk then,” he sighed, his arms loosely folding over his chest as he stepped away from his desk. His mind almost instantly referred to Guyun Stone Forest, if only to stroll the banks and stone mountains much akin to a couple of days prior… and maybe a walk along the cliffside where he’d initially found Jing Yuan. It was still quite early.

With the thought in mind, Morax left his office and made his way through the halls towards the exit of the building. He could very likely find a moment to contact Lord Kusanali. He’d done as she’d asked, having visited a couple of time here and there throughout the last few months, another visit would do no harm, especially with the time of his departure being so close. It would be the last time he’d see her…

Though he hadn’t met her… perhaps a letter to Lord Focalors? And Barbatos? Not that the sprite would be able to read it with how intoxicated he’d be. Not only that, he went by Venti these days, so giving him a letter with the Geo Archon’s signature would have been very telling. The God deadpanned exasperatedly as he left the building and descended the stairs.

He paused, considering the letters. He did regret having not met the young Hydro Archon, mostly due to his own reluctance in facing the Hydro Dragon that guarded the nation of Fontaine. It was a risk, but… From an Archon to Archon, he’d never had the pleasure of meeting her. The one prior, yes, but not this generation.

He resolved himself to the thought and abruptly turned around to re-enter the building, heading back towards his office. Ganyu had yet to show up since this morning's greeting, but he knew of her current attendance with Lady Ningguang. And so he stepped into the extra office where the other staff women were working.

“One of you call for a messenger with a Nation Pass, please, and send them to my office?” he requested, gaining a few nods before one of them moved to stand, already getting to it. Morax proceeded to leave the room and meandered around the corner for his own office, heading towards his desk and sitting swiftly to get started.

He reached into the drawers, retrieving paper and pens, one being a seal stamp with a Geo symbol, the official seal he’d received years ago. The Archon sighed softly and set about writing, eyeing the page before a decent commentary came to mind. He forewent titling her with ‘Dear’ as, again, he’d yet to meet her.

---

‘ Hydro Archon, Focalors.

I regret that we have not had a formal introduction within the five hundred years of your perch on the Hydro Throne. Admittedly, I could have written to you far sooner, and for that, I apologise. For that and for the reason behind reaching out to you so suddenly.

As short as I can explain, I wish to finally meet face to face as I’d not had the pleasure and may not get the chance after this attempt, and I’d hope to do so before the end of two weeks. I would prefer to elaborate in person as I feel the announcement would be quite dulled when read in a letter.

As such, I humbly request to introduce myself in person and get to know you, if only a little before my leave.

Sincerely, Geo Archon, Rex Lapis.’

---

For a moment, he debated on removing the title of Geo Archon, but with it sitting so neatly on the letter's end, he reluctantly let it be. He was still the Archon until the very last day. He eyed the page, waiting as the ink dried, which it had done quite fast by the pace he’d been writing and eventually, the God folded it in two, folding the upper half with the narrow fold of the bottom keeping it in place.

Morax reached for his seal stamp and pressed it down against the seam, holding it in place until he saw the drying outline of the seal he’d forced against the letter. A moment later, he removed it, pleased that it had dried in place.

And in time to hear the knock of his door. The Archon stood, letter in hand and made his way over, seeing the uniform of a personal messenger with a shoulder insignia that allowed nation travelling and gave him the perks of not needing to enter through the nation gates. The one from before when he’d needed a letter sent to Lord Kusanali.

He’d opened the door, being politely bowed to immediately.

“Good morning,” Morax started, “I need this delivered to the Archon of Fontaine. Please use a Waypoint. This is quite time sensitive,” he informed simply, the man giving him a swift nod and safely secured the letter within the inside of his jacket before rushing off down the hall. Morax slowly followed, hoping to see him take his leave, but with the pace, he was already heading out of the building by the time Morax had turned the corner.

And by the time he left the building as well, the messenger was nowhere in sight, reassuring him of how important the request had been to him. So it was simply a matter of waiting and taking a short stroll. Guyun was short enough, a simple climb to the peak to rest his whirring thoughts and then a return to meander the harbour. Or to return to his office to be sure that the messenger knew where he was. It felt like the safest option to ensure that he’d read the returned letter on arrival. Or hear from the messenger himself if she refused to send one in reply.

The Archon ran his hands along the side of his face, drawing his bangs aside as he began descending the steps and made his way towards the lower platforms of the harbour. He’d returned to tying his hair back after Jing Yuan and young Bailu had taken their leave, feeling as though it was something he could only reveal while they were there.

Morax gave Madam Ping a warm smile and respectful nod as he passed by, the old Adeptus returning the sentiment before he descended the stairs to the lower area and then meandered along to the Waypoint passed the walkway and guards within Feiyun Slope. Reaching for it, the thought of the Stone Forest chambers crossed his mind and within a moment, a rush shook through him, his gaze meeting the stone and glowing blue seams of the Archaic Domain within the cave of the largest island.

The Archon stepped back, eyeing the large set of doors before turning away, heading for the entrance, to which he turned left upon exiting, beginning the climb. The trek was never a struggle, rather it was quite simple. Though he had travelled it numerous times to reach the peak and feel the power beneath the surface that lay dormant due to his lances. It was unfortunate that some of the power seeped from time to time, affecting the beings along the banks of Guili Plains. Had it been permanently sealed entirely, maybe he could convince the young Yaksha to travel with him-...

Morax paused in his stride, a frown creasing his features at the thought, feeling the sombre blow from the Yaksha’s efforts all these years. To fight constantly and consistently during the Lantern Rite.

“A way to seal the influx,” he muttered, walking again as he began thinking of ways to seal the seeping energy that inflicted Xiao. If it were to continue, the Adepti knew that it was a matter of time before the young being would revert to madness. They’d been prepared for it, but maybe if he were able to seal it entirely, he wouldn’t need to collect such harm. Maybe he could join him and find peace on the Luofu?

With where the spears had cut down the monsters and other beings, he could very well tend to what was above to fortify the sealing, but the rest of it was far below water level…

“Focalors… or even the Hydro Dragon,” Morax voiced his thought, thinking that maybe he could request some aid with this, but then he was sure that the dragon wouldn’t aid him. He’d likely be inclined to decline on sight if not order him to take his leave before Focalors saw him. And he wouldn’t ask the Archon to leave her Nation with how young she was. It was why he and Lord Kusanali had their arrangement of him visiting her.

A gentle hum of thought left him as he lit a square beneath him, using his power to create a pillar beneath him to give him height. He stepped off of the pillar and onto the rock path that led to the peak, a hooked finger pressing to his chin.

Hadn’t the General mentioned a hydro powered Vidyadhara that had parted the sea to reveal the large, abandoned Scalegorge city? With that level of power, it would be beneficial. Though he had no way of even requesting Dan Heng’s aid due to their otherworldly separation. In saying that, it would likely risk revealing the seals of the lances themselves and be targeted by the sealed beings or monsters waiting for their chance. At least with the Hydro Dragon, he had his own method without moving the water aside for Morax.

… Releasing it would take a piece of him as well, it would likely take quite a chunk of his power. While the Dragon would very likely regain it, Morax might not. Then again, would he need it if he was to find retirement with the Xianzhou Luofu?

“A risk, given that I only have a couple of weeks before my departure,” but then the Jade Chamber appeared set and it would have a chance to prove itself, if only against enemies not of Osial’s calibre-.

Morax’s gaze narrowed, his attention being caught by a cold feeling in the ocean air as it reached him at the peak. A heavy frown drew at his features, his eyes darting to the water in the distance. Something felt… off. There was a disruption in the area, in the flow, in the wildlife. Morax couldn’t hear any birds, no songs of the flightful creatures, nor were there any Vishap Hatchlings, whereas there were usually many on the Forest islands… They’d escaped the area. They had instinct. And with what he had felt in that moment, that was the only conclusion he could resort to.

But then… What was the reason? The seal still felt secure, or as secure as he had left it. So what had driven the wildlife away?

His own instinct called to him, the strong need to know…

“Xiao,” he called calmly, a moment later a rush of wind struck behind him, though his gaze never left the area where his attention had been drawn initially.

“Rex Lapis,” the gritty tone reached him, “You feel it,” the younger being voiced with a softer tone though had moved closer, standing at his side. With the wording, so minimal and the way it was spoken, it gave Morax the impression of resignation, as if he’d seen something that had been kept hidden… And he knew the Yaksha far too well.

“Yes. Do you know?” was his next question, the Archon turning his head from the vile feeling in the air to see the slight downturned expression. He had indeed found something that he had wanted to remain unanswered.

“I’m unable to say,” the Yaksha admitted honestly, not meeting his gaze though. Had he been silenced? The Yaksha was far too loyal to the Archon to allow just anyone to quiet him from confessing to the God. So then a mutual acquaintance. No average mortal had that power over him, nor did a few of the halfborn’s. Ganyu… maybe, at a stretch, but she was nowhere near that conniving.

“Were you Contracted?” Morax started, wanting confirmation and the look he received was enough to give him his answer. The wider, bright yellow gaze had wavered just slightly.
“By Lady Ningguang?” it would have been his first assumption with how much time he appeared to spend with the few invited to the Chamber of late.

“No,” Xiao shook his head and glanced away, staring into the ocean where Morax had been gazing only moments prior. If not Lady Ningguang, then it would have to be another that had some form of power over him. It narrowed the list considerably… Lady Ningguang, Xiao, Ganyu, Captain Beidou, Shenhe, Keqing, Cloud Retainer, Mountain Shaper, Moon Carver…

“Cloud Retainer,” had been his next conclusion and Xiao grimaced softly, giving him his answer rather swiftly with the face he’d shown and soft grunt.
“Of course she has a hand in this,” Morax sighed, an amused snort following. He could gather the situation and what she had planned… The distinct feeling of ominous eeriness in the ocean air, directly aside the Stone Forest, his upcoming retirement and the fact that the Jade chamber had been constructed, that Xiao had been contracted to not inform the Archon whatsoever. The timing was far too perfect.

“It appears she’s taken to my methods,” he shook his head, his lips curving up just slightly.
“I assume you were contracted to not inform me of any of this,” Morax concluded, seeing the Yaksha stiffen, dread growing as if realising something. It came to the Archon fast that he appeared fearful, “No need to worry. You’ve not broken the contract. I’ve come to the conclusion myself,”

Though the Yaksha did calm, his gaze lifted to the Archon once more as if asking for confirmation of it and Morax could only smile to reassure. The God lifted his hand and gently placed it against the shorter being's hair, amused by the deadpanned expression he earned from the familial contact.

“I won’t intervene,” he informed simply, “Also… If all goes as planned today, I’ll be visiting Fontaine soon. If you wish to join me, you may,” the surprised expression on the Yaksha’s face caught his attention, the Adeptus’ gaze snapping wide immediately upon registering the sentence.

“But the Dragon,” his volume grew just slightly, having the same concerns as the Archon with the presence of the serpent. Being what they were and the pure dislike for Archons, he knew the Dragons to be a force to worry about. It was simply luck that the Geo dragon and Morax had come to an agreement, a compromise per se. Which had involved him being given the draconic form.

“I’m hoping he won’t intervene. Though being that he’s Chief Justice, I may find myself on guard the entire time as he’d likely be at her side at all times during my visit,” Morax sighed softly, his arms crossing loosely across his chest at the thought.

“I’ll come with you,” Xiao replied rather swiftly, and to the Archon’s relief. He’d feel far less relaxed with the serpent being present that much, but then it would give him the chance to request his attention with the shield, at the very least.

“Thank you, Xiao,” he nodded his head in thanks, “I’ve sent a messenger via Waypoint. The time in which I receive a reply is dependant on the Hydro Archon’s method of-,”

“The messenger returned to your office a moment ago,” the Yaksha cut in swiftly, leaving Morax eyeing him in momentary surprise.

“He did? That was quite fast. I assume he’s not holding a letter?” the God asked with a slight head tilt. He hadn’t expected just a swift return unless he’d been pushed to the front of whatever business the Hydro Archon had. He recalled some rumours of the theatrics of Fontaine and that she was usually the person front and centre. He might have caught her during a peaceful moment.

“Not that I can tell. Though he may be hiding it,” Xiao replied calmly, Morax watching as the younger being lifted a hand, holding it out to the Archon. A trip with the Yaksha’s Anemo, it had been quite a while.
“Shall I?” he offered.

“It would be appreciated,” Morax nodded, reaching up to grasp the smaller hand. The moment he had, there was a rush, far more heated than the Waypoint travel and far more accurate to where he wished to be. As he reopened his gaze, he saw that they were directly outside of the Pavilion, the Yaksha still at his side as he turned and walked towards the building, climbing the stairs.

In utmost honesty, he hoped for a positive response, something leading to him sharing a space with the younger Archon. One meeting before his leave would have been enough, that and a positive response from the Dragon, given the chance to speak with him. No matter that he would be far more alerted to his presence, hackles raised and all that.

They meandered through the halls towards his office, not that it was far into the building, and eventually turned the corner to see the messenger standing at his door, waiting at attention the moment he and Xiao appeared.

“That was quite fast,” he’d greeted with a slight smile as he opened his door and stepped in, the Yaksha and messenger following.

“Yes, I was directed to the Palais Mermonia. The Hydro Archon had been in the Chief Justice’s office. It was a rather swift meeting,” the man smiled. Morax stopped and stood at his seat, Xiao standing at the side.

“What was the response?” the moment he’d asked, he saw the strain of facial muscles. The God couldn’t quite read the expression and watched as the man reached into his inner pocket to retrieve a piece of paper, well folded like his own and with the Hydro seal. He waited, watching as the man cleared his throat.

“Apologies if I struggle,” he smiled sheepishly and held the paper in front of him, already appearing to struggle with the first sentence.
“Dear Archon of Geo. I myself hold mutual feelings over the distance between us as I have not extended the gesture. It twists my heart to realise this as I’ve read your letter repeatedly. I must say, I was quite surprised when your seal had been recognized by my dear Chief Justice-,” Morax internally worried that ‘he’ had been the one to see it first…
“-I accept your request to share time together, as I would enjoy learning from the oldest and wisest of our kind with what little time we can share- uh… smiley face,” the man hesitated.
“-We have tea, cake and entertaining banter awaiting your arrival at the Palais Mermonia. There’s enough for four if you wish to bring a plus. Please do be swift, as I wish not the cakes to go stale. Yours, the Hydro Archon… kissy face and a little fish doodle…”

The man lowered the paper, a slight blush dusting his cheeks. Morax was… quite bewildered by that response, he’d admit. The moment lasted a tad longer, the silence overtaking the room before he straightened up and chuckled softly.

“My, she has a flourish with words, doesn’t she,” he lifted a hand to his mouth, very much amused after processing the letter. And thankfully, she’d mentioned an extra in both parts, so Xiao wouldn’t be a surprise. The extra with her must have been the Dragon, he’d wager confidently.

“Thank you for reading it,” the Archon reached out, being handed the letter. The man bowed, leaving seconds later. The God eyed the letter once more before tucking it into the chest pocket inside of the robe.
“It appears our presence is welcomed as we speak,” Morax tilted his head to eye the Yaksha, who appeared to grimace. Very likely at the thought of cake and tea.

“Shall we?” again, Xiao reached out a hand and the Archon stepped towards the edge of the desk with a nod, raising a hand to grasp the Adeptus’ palm. Within a second, they’d disappeared from the spot.

Notes:

For this one, I was so set on Xiao being involved. There was a comment by someone named "Gita" in the last chapter that mentioned Morax taking Xiao with him and at the time I commented, I didn't think much of that concept, but the comment was so stuck in my head during this chapter that I bluntly hinted at Morax wanting that and is willing to talk to Neuvillette to see if he can help him with it.
Thank you, Gita, your comment really gave me a really good boost into this chapter ^^

On another note, you can probably tell what I'm leading into if you've played the game or at least watched gameplay on the event where the Jade Chamber was reconstructed. This is sorta what I'm going for.

Chapter 21

Notes:

I struggled with focus again, but this one was really great fun to work through.
Another 3.5k coming at you.

Although he’d quite swiftly heard the gasps of surprise and a few spoke his formal title, Morax was far more taken by his surroundings rather than reacting to the shock of his and his Generals arrival.

To his pleasant surprise, the area they’d appeared in was quite a delightful sight. The theme, the structures, a truly beautiful city, so elegant and almost aristocratic in style. Very thematic to the old theatre ideals that he recalled the Archon striving to achieve for Fontaine’s future before bringing the population above the surface.

Morax’ gaze drifted to the large building ahead of them, his golden stare weighing heavily on the structural decor, the imposement of power and importance so easily seen in its appearance… And from where they stood, even more so as he could feel the distinct essence within that belonged to two individuals.

“Do you like theatrical performances, Rex Lapis?” his Yaksha’s voice caught his attention, the God lowering his gaze. He knew the younger being to not take pleasure in much that would require socialising, or mortals in general, so it was a slight surprise to hear the question specifically. Then again, it could be compared to his fondness for food. He didn’t need it, but he did partake at times.

“I do. I find them… interesting, I suppose. The method of rehearsal to perfect for an audience, the telling of stories through action. The capability to sway onlookers through a honed skill has always fascinated me,” it was why he tended to watch any of their nations performances in the harbour. He did very much enjoy Yun Jin’s performances as well as her singing.

“Why?” the young Yaksha asked rather quizzically, eyeing him with interest. Morax would hazard an assumption that maybe he’d been trying to understand the appeal. Then again, if he didn’t find it appealing, then it was unknown to the Archon, with what his own Lantern Rite event had been named.

“In short, I see it as a form of dance to draw one's attention to a story,” he smiled warmly, loosely crossing his arms over his chest, well aware that they were still being watched by many with their first appearance in the nation.
“Do you not enjoy dancing?” the God questioned simply with a slight head tilt towards the Yaksha.

“No,” had been his instant and blunt response, his expression as flat as ever at the notion of ‘dancing’. Really, it seemed that he simply hadn’t ever seen the enjoyment of creation. As far back as he could recall, even among the other Yaksha, he’d been the one to stealthily disappear when it came time for dancing, celebrations and creative construction. Morax had found him on a few occasions sleeping away the time or daydreaming.

And during the Lanterns Rites of late… Morax turned towards the Yaksha.

“Nuo Dance of Evil Conquering,” he smirked just a tad, seeing the instant stiffness in his shoulders and the very light dusting of a pigment change in his cheek.

“That’s not a-,” he started sharply, pausing to compose, “Nuo Dance of Evil Conquering is not a dance,” the Yaksha grumbled softly and swiftly started climbing the shallow steps, his eyes closed and with a light pinch between his brows. The word was in the name, but he knew that it was far more than a simple dance.

He’d admit that while he’d seen his day and night fight with Karma during the Lantern Rite, the movement, the fluidity, the sheer power behind his motion, it was a hellish dance that the Yaksha performed every year. Which added motivation to his need to allow Xiao his freedom from its scarring claw.

“I feel as though that depends on the onlookers opinions, my friend,” he chuckled quietly and began to follow, his stride being casual as he caught up at the doors to the building.

Morax reached out, pressing a hand to the surface and pushed some, feeling it ease open under the light pressure. Once it was opened wide enough, he gestured for Xiao to step in first, though he appeared reluctant with the role reversal, he stepped in prior to him either way and the Archon let the door fall shut behind him, being sure to move his tail aside to not catch it when it closed… Thinking about it, he very much doubted that the Iudex would be happy to see the draconic features.

While walking further into the building, he set his focus to the extra features and gradually dispelled them, feeling the lack of weight on his spine and head rather swiftly. He didn’t need an all out battle if the dragon reacted negatively to the adorned appendages.

Up ahead, the Archon’s gaze fell to the two rows of desks and chairs on either side of the room, following along the wall, the few mortals sat unevenly, seeming to break from their gazes from their work in shock upon seeing them. Directly opposite the two was a large, green reception desk with a large clock into the top centre, sided by two tall bookshelves and appealing decor with a very lengthy carpet leading towards the desk and to the right, to where a large set of doors were closed firmly.

It was when they had gotten closer to the end of the hall that he’d caught sight of the adorable creatures near those doors, small vaguely animalistic little beings wearing uniforms very recognizable as law enforcement, if he was not mistaken. And one of them appeared to flake when it spotted the two oncomers.

“The Geo Archon and Vigilante Yaksha!” the small creature froze and almost stumbled as she swiftly rushed to greet them, “Sir!-, Lords-, uh!” she fumbled, her ears twisting rapidly upon stopping ahead of them, glancing between the two frantically. She was very adorable.

“Rex Lapis and Xiao,” the Yaksha replied bluntly before the Archon could, the older being giving the small creature a warm smile, which she seemed to try and return while being professional in her position. Very adorable~.

“Yes! Rex Lapis and Xiao, Sirs! I am Sedene! Pleased to make your acquaintance!” the small creature bowed respectfully, holding it for quite some time.

“The pleasure is ours,” Morax’ smile grew, watching the little being’s ears curve upwards in delight. It was much akin to a reaction to the small ferret fox he’d befriended on the cliff bank North of the harbour a while ago. So their expressions were very visible in their extra features.

She’d straightened up, smiling brightly and motioned for them to follow as she turned away and headed for the tall doors, knocking briefly before waiting. He himself could hear a deep voice speak, prompting the being to stretch for the handle and lean forward to open the door.

“Lady Furina, Monsieur Neuvillette! The Geo Archon and the Vigilante Yaksha have arrived,” she informed with a still wide smile. She’d stepped aside a moment later, inviting the two in. Morax had been slow to enter and gave the small creature an appreciating smile, receiving one in return. They’d linger just long enough that Xiao had unintentionally passed them and paused a little ahead of him.

“Rex,” the Yaksha muttered in an attempt to catch his attention, drawing him from the small moment with questioning hum.

“Apologies,” the Archon replied and stepped after the other, following him further into the room. He really hadn’t expected to meet such an appealing being. So warm and kind, a little bubbly. It somewhat reminded him of a rabbit.

Once refocused, his gaze fell upon two very distinct individuals in the room with very striking and almost matching appearances with silver hair, verging on white and shared a similar palette in clothing choices, ranging from a deep blue to light blue and was adorned with black and silvers. Both were incredibly beautiful and really exuded that ‘fine aristocratic’ theme.

“I see that you were distracted by Sedene~?” the smaller female of the two chuckled lightly, her laugh sounding a tad pushed, or forced, putting on airs? She was quite vibrant in reaction. 

“She’s quite adorable,” Morax stated simply as he meandered over as the young woman stood to greet him, her hand held out and motioning to the sofa across from her and on the other side of a coffee table adorned with many snacks and cups. Across from him and beside the Hydro Archon was, unmistakably, the Dragon. The Iudex appeared… stiff, while staring at the Geo Archon. Though in turn, Xiao had begun staring at the Iudex for the reaction. 

“Isn’t she just?” she’d beamed immediately, her hands raising to her face to cup her cheeks, “The Melusine's are such endearing creatures~,” Focalors swooned, sitting once Morax and Xiao had taken their seats. The Archon crossed a leg over the other, finding it oddly easy to relax despite the piercing stare he was being given by the Chief Justice as he strode over to sit with them.

“Melusine's,” Morax repeated the name, testing it on his own tongue, “I’ll admit, I’m quite taken. I’ve not seen any kind of being that unique,” in comparison, Liyue had the Vishap Hatchlings, stone reptiles and though they never seemed to have the urge or thought to attack him or the other Adepti, they were temperamental with mortals, a very unsafe creature to linger in the presence of.

“They’re an underwater species and very gentle hearted,” the Iudex appeared to reluctantly speak up. With the softness of his tone, Morax gathered that maybe he was fond of the beings as well. Understandable, as he’d mentioned their state as water beings and considering what he was, it made sense. He was glad that the dragon had at least joined in the conversation, if only to calm the mildly tense air.

“I can imagine. Her greeting was very welcoming,” the Geo Archon nodded respectfully before lifting his golden gaze to the serpent, seeing the slight ease of the unwavering stare. Apparently, complimenting the creatures was a way to calm him.

“Naturally,” the dragon replied swiftly, his tone having remained composed and crossed his arms over his chest, along with a leg over the other much akin to Morax.

“So! For this spontaneously celebratory meeting, we have the finest tea that Fontaine can offer and Fruity Trio!” the Hydro Archon smiled brightly, standing only to plate a few slices of the cake that had been ready cut for their arrival, the plates being set beside the cups of perfectly shaded tea, though one appeared to only have water. Predictably, it appeared that the Iudex was the owner of that cup as it was set closer to him.

“Fruity Trio?” the Yaksha muttered in question as Morax reached for his slice, being able to see the dubious stare he was giving the plate after the other God handed it to him. As yes, the Adeptus wasn’t an eater, as he’d mentioned before. Almond Tofu appeared to be a rare pleasure he allowed from the few times Morax visited the Inn.

“A dessert with a romantic flair, of course~,” Focalors beamed, holding a fork for the Yaksha to grasp, “Jam and fillings made from Bulle Fruit into tart shells and with meringue spread neatly over the top before being baked in the oven. A personal favourite of mine~,” again, she’d swooned, very delighted it seemed. Though she’d stated that it was a favourite. He could imagine the same happiness as if he’d managed to find a bottle of his preferred wine.

Morax watched amusedly as the Yaksha cut a narrow corner of the cake, grimacing softly as he’d picked it up and examined it before taking a bite. Though there was no expressive reaction, the God could almost feel the disdain. Even Morax could smell the amount of sugar that seeped from the icing and centre creaming that held it together. He’d assumed that he wasn’t fond of sugar.  

If he recalled correctly, Menogias had been the one that enjoyed the sweeter flavours, having even introduced him to a few during their time together. It’d been quite amusing with his company. The Geo Yaksha had wanted a closer bond due to their shared element and it had inevitably drawn the Archon closer to all of the Yaksha-.

“Why is it that you’ve chosen now to request an audience,” the Dragons question drew him from his memorable thoughts, his gaze lifting to the serpents. There didn’t seem to be that piercing stare from before, but rather sharp curiosity.

“Monsieur,” the Hydro Archon chided, her frown firmly placed on the Chief Justice. The two appeared to stand their ground in a stare challenge, silent for only a moment or two. It was… a tad awkward, enough that both he and Xiao settled their plates on the table, the Yaksha being swift in the movement to get the plate away from him.

“Are you not curious as to why the Geo Archon decided to reach out to you? Or what was worded so vaguely in his letter?” the dragon’s voice was firm, pushing her.

“Yes, but… I would’ve asked eventually. I simply wanted to give him a Great first impression,” simply watching the two, Morax could gather the dynamic between them and it was somewhat predictable that the Iudex was training her, to an extent, rather forcefully and not giving her the time to express before pushing her into a discomforting topic. It appeared that she’d wanted to have a calm, entertaining time before the subjects grew serious, as to why he was there to begin with.

In honesty, he preferred the Archon’s way of easing them into familiarity prior to the topic, but the Dragon appeared to be impatient with the Geo Archon there, which was justified.

Morax sighed softly through his nose, “I understand Monsieur Neuvillette's suspicion,” he spoke up, drawing their attention with his gaze falling to the serpent before drifting to the Hydro Archon.
“To summarise… I simply wished to meet you in person and inform you of a personal decision that I plan take my leave of the Archon throne,”

“What?!” Focalors gawked loudly, even the Chief Justice appeared thoroughly shocked by the news. Both of their eyes were wide, mouths agape.
“You can do that? You’re-, why? How?” she continued, really appearing stunned by his words and had completely forgotten her exaggerated tone she’d previously had upon his appearance.

“Those are questions I find difficult to answer… To put it simply, my nation doesn’t need its Archon anymore and I find myself growing too old to keep up with its growing development,” he’d repeated, very much rehearsed due to how many times he’d had to say it up until then to both Adepti and Mortals of late. Every conversation he’d had with someone, they would inquire at least once as to why.

“Too… old? But…” Furina had paused, deflating shortly before seeming to realise, “Actually, now that I think about it… you are the oldest by many thousands,” and she would be correct. The Archon younger than him but the oldest of the others would have been Barbatos, but even he was young compared to the Geo Archon. As Guizhong has said once before, Stones shell may wither over time, its core lives forever.

In simple terms, she knew of his future, where he would tire, but live on.

“Indeed,” he chuffed softly and sighed again, “And so, I’ll be stepping down, if all goes as planned that is,” the Archon informed, glancing between them and the dragon still appeared quite taken aback by the news, staring at him with an openly shocked expression. It was understandable, his silent threats of ‘seeing justice dealt to the Archons’ hadn’t fallen upon deaf ears.

“Then… I wish you a happy retirement. And I’m glad that you reached out, Rex Lapis,” the Hydro Archon smiled warmly, maybe a tad forced, but he’d appreciated it nonetheless. He was glad for the response. The God gave her a grateful nod, low, much akin to a bow.

“With that aside… May I ask a favour of your Iudex?” Morax asked after a moment, seeming to catch the dragon's attention and break him from his silent stupor only to give the God a suspicious stare.

“Of course~,” Focalors responded for him, also earning that very same expression. He found it rather amusing, the dynamic honestly entertained him. He could have compared it to his own with both Xiao and Director Hu.

“Monsieur Neuvillette-,” Morax grew serious and straightened up to face him. For the other reason he had asked for the meeting, it required him to take on his far more determined air, needing to show his resolve in this request.
“Could I ask for your help in permanently sealing the lances of Guyun Stone Forest to prevent the leakage of any more Karmic debt?”

“Rex Lapis?!” the absolute shock that left his Yaksha and the stun on the faces ahead of them, none of it shook him, his gaze was strongly pinned on the dragon and the serpent appeared to really analyse him in return for the request. They gazed at one another, unwavering, calculating, but it appeared that Morax had achieved something as the Iudex appeared to relax back against the sofa he was sitting again.

“Why ask this of me?” a test question, the Geo Archon was very sure and he proceeded to ease slightly as the reason came to mind very swiftly.

“It’s so that Xiao won’t have to continue to accumulate the effects that the other Yaksha lost themselves to,” Morax replied smoothly, “I wish for his freedom of this devastating path,” to think that he would find himself in the same state as the other Yaksha, to feel that loss of control and sanity and rather take it out on himself than others as Morax knew he’d have the mind to do… he didn’t want that.

“You wish for his freedom,” the dragons violet gaze eased, but his brow pinched, “You’re aware that permanently sealing the lances would indefinitely take a portion of your power,” had he not heard the tone, he’d assume that the Iudex was concerned for him. He was very aware of it, but he had far more than enough.

“If I were able, I’d give you the rest of my Archonic power in appreciation for your aid,” Morax replied rather swiftly, watching the pinch grow just slightly before his features relaxed and he moved to stand, stopping short of the space ahead of the Archon as Morax joined him, standing only a foot to two apart.

“You care for him,” the dragon stated very accurately, and Morax nodded. There was a long pause that followed where they simply shared a look, a heavy sigh following the dragon’s stare.
“Then I’ll aid you,”

“Thank you, Chief Justice,” the God smiled warmly, very much appreciating the-.

“Neuvillette,” the man interrupted the Archon’s thoughts, only registering what was said a moment later and the smile grew.

“Thank you, Neuvillette,” Morax bowed his head respectfully, immensely grateful. He’d been unconvinced that he could acquire his aid due to their opposition, but the surprise was very welcomed.

“Lord Morax, you don’t have to do this,” Xiao’s voice reached him, feeling a hand rest against his forearm. The God turned to see his Yaksha standing there, staring up at him with a concerned frown. It drew at his feelings, so much so that Morax turned and reached up, holding his shoulders much akin to how Jing Yuan had done to him in an attempt to reassure.

“I ‘want’ this,” he said firmly, “I won’t continue to have you suffer the debt for an act that I caused and I will not lose you as we did the others,” although he could show it more, he cherished the Yaksha, he adored his Adepti and should have shown it. He should have found a way to relieve him of this curse far sooner…

“I will not lose you," Morax added, the two sharing a warm gaze before the Archon was sufficiently shocked by the Yaksha suddenly propelling himself forward, his head being pressed to his chest, his face hidden by the Gods robes.

“I’m coming with you!” the Adeptus suddenly declared against his chest, his head pressing closer. Morax tilted his head, his hands shifting to cradle his shoulders.

“To the Stone Forest?” he inquired curiously, his head tilting further before he was suddenly met with a flushed angry face, though anger never reached his bright yellow gaze.

“To Xianzhou Luofu!” Xiao growled at him with absolute Resolve, “Where my Archon goes, I’ll follow!” rather than react to the growl he was given, his being was completely engulfed in pure warmth and happiness. His hand lifted to hold the back of the Yaksha’s head, the Archon’s forehead meeting the smaller beings.

“I’m grateful, Xiao,” he spoke softly, the two sharing that moment, feeling his heart swell in heat that he would have him there at his side. He couldn’t imagine the ache of not having him there with him.

The moment lasted a while until a slight sobbing reached their ears, Morax tilting his head to see Focalors comically crying, watching them with wide watering eyes, holding a Blubberbeast tissue case with a few tissues in hand.

“That was so beautiful!” she sobbed hard, the dragon hesitating in attempts to calm her.

Notes:

This one was interesting because Neuvillette CAN be a bit awkward for me to write, but it gave me some practice for the Wriothesley/Neuvillette story I've planned.
And YES, Xiao has some plot now ^^. I'm actually really excited for a reaction between him and Yanqing because I feel like Yanqing would see it as "I get a new best friend! Lets goooo!" XD

That end buckled me, I was giggling with Furina's reaction.

Chapter 22

Notes:

THIS ONE IS SO SHORT!! Sorry T^T I ran outta time and I really like my 2 day post schedule!

Grateful was far too simple a word to describe how the Geo Archon felt towards the Hydro Archon and her Iudex. It was far below how much appreciation thrummed through him that the Dragon accepted the request, that the Hydro archon permitted his leave for the act of Sealing and that the two had offered them a basic tour within view of the path along where they were heading.

According to Neuvillette, he had a meeting with the Duke of Meropide and Focalors had swiftly offered a tour while on the way to the Court of Fontaine, in addition had offered to introduce as he was also a ‘man worth meeting’ from what the Chief Justice had added to the discussion. And to have high regards from the Dragon himself was quite baffling and drew at his interest. Morax had accepted quite quickly.

Sadly, Xiao had requested his leave to inform Cloud Retainer of the situation, and had apologised for the curtness. Morax had seen the reluctance to part, but he also understood that it could have been considered quite short notice as there was only a couple of weeks left and the plans were well underway.

And so, that had left the Geo Archon to the Hydro Archon and her Iudex for the tour after a brief explanation and disappearance of the Yaksha.

All in all, he was pleasantly surprised by the utter beauty outside of the city itself. The waters were reflecting the blue of the sky so beautifully with a lush green framing the mountains, a sliver of sand lining between the green and blue, wildlife clearly enjoying their home and thriving atop the wide water fountain that was Fontaine. It was truly a unique beauty he hadn’t seen. The development and improvements of this nation was amazing… He almost thought that maybe Focalors would be in a similar situation as himself with much of a hand she would have in shaping the nation from here on out when it appeared so… final.

A short time had passed, his tour being swift but informative as they’d travelled via Aquabus and had meandered their way along the path towards the court. Focalors and Neuvillette had been helpful with description and lore-giving, undistracted by the whispers and surprise of the people as the Geo Archon’s recognizable figure was caught in their sights as he strode with the two. And for the longest time, all he’d heard were the stunned mutterings. The surprise was understandable, but over the short time, he grew a tad weary, feeling the tire in his bones as it reminded him of the reaction of his own people after the failed test where he announced his presence.

“Morax?” a gentle, soft voice reached him before he could feel himself delve into his exhausted thoughts, and the fact that Focalors had called him by name, feeling safe to utter his true identity… it had drawn a warmth to him, thankful that she’d felt that close with him already.

He turned his head from the large, ornate and beautiful fountain in front of him, his golden gaze glancing between both her and the dragon, both appearing to be watching him with a slight question  to their eyes, one concerned, another curious.

“Apologies. I find myself falling into thought far easier of late,” the Archon spoke up, turning from the fountain to address them. He didn’t want them to also worry and he hadn’t expected them to stop their descriptions. Had he been that obvious?

“I can feel your apprehension,” the answer was yes… The Archon appeared slightly saddened as she’d reached out to him, her hand gently brushing his arm that hung at his sides. Even her own expression appeared perplexed, but seemingly wanted to reassure to some extent, to aid his troubled thoughts. He gazed into her mismatched eyes, feeling her need to comfort. She was sweet, so young and was clearly trying her best…

“My experience with humans upon my reappearance hadn’t started too positively,” he informed quietly, the two seemingly catching on quite fast with how she seemed to be saddened at the news and the soft hum that left the dragon. They didn’t reply, not that he’d expected them to and with the look of wanting to know further, he caved very easily.
“The people of Liyue thought my ‘want’ to retire had been their doing,” Morax elaborated as simply as he could, their expressions turning to one of understanding, Focalors having gasped so softly.

“I see. Did you attempt to reassure them?” Neuvillette muttered in question, seemingly wanting to keep his voice low to not draw attention or allow others to hear, to which Morax greatly appreciated.

“I indeed tried, though I fear a few still believe it to be their fault,” the Archon lowered his gaze just slightly with a soft, sad frown gracing his features, the hand on his arm growing a tad more confident in Focalors need to comfort. 

“Then you must try harder in what little time you still have on your throne,” the dragon continued rather swiftly and bluntly, drawing Morax’s attention once more. He eyed him, seeing the solid stoicism, the blunt honesty and utter disregard of their prior guard they held against each other back in the office where they’d shared a space. He appeared so… curtly forward with him, much akin to how he’d acted with the Hydro Archon, it seemed.

Morax chuckled softly as the thought came to mind, the seemingly encouraging urge the other had straightforwardly addressed him with. He smiled some, lifting his head to the other and the Hydro Archon.

“Thank you,” he spoke fondly, glancing between them again for a moment. He watched as the dragon nodded and abruptly turned away, beginning to walk towards the tall Court building. A gentle gesture from the Hydro Archon and he was being led as well, the hand still on his arm and was then wound around the bend at his elbow, walking him after the Iudex.

It was slow, casual, a leisurely stroll along the path, up a few steps and around the outside of the building towards the back. And though there stood a figure at the very end of the narrow walkway, his eyes had been drawn to the rush of water that pooled far below them, sending warm streams of ocean scents up, giving the area an appealing atmosphere.

The sights and smells really made him want to linger within the nation, if only to add to his impression of the beautiful land.

“Your Grace,” Morax’s gaze lifted to the dragon, having heard him call to the stranger up ahead. Said man appeared to have only then noticed them and gave quite a bright smile. He was tall, broad, wearing a numerous shade of dark and had darker hair with silvered strips. His eyes were striking, piercing, yet held a softness to them upon being greeted by Neuvillette.

“Chief Justice. Good midday to you. I see you’ve brought high valued guests,” the man beamed towards them, giving them a hearty two fingered salute.
“Lady Furina. Sir,” in the greeting, it was made clear that he eyed him, seemingly trying to place a name to the face. It was a surprise, giving him the impression that he rarely saw much of Morax, whether it be in fiction, picture or having left the nation.

“Your Grace,” the Hydro Archon greeted and gestured to Morax, “This is the Geo Archon, Rex Lapis,” and to finally be named, surprise graced the man's features, his brows raising high on his forehead.

“This is ‘quite’ the honour,” the Duke breathed, his piercing gaze lingering firmly on the Archon. The stun was evident in his tone and the way he eyed him over, Morax had the impression that he may have not given off the air of Archon at the time? If so, then it appeared that the stranger really hadn’t seen much of the Geo Archon befo-.
“Your Shrines don’t do you justice. You’re far more attractive,” Or not! That had been a look of ‘interest’?!  

Morax’s gaze widened just slightly, his brows lifting, mouth falling open in mild shock from such a forward statement.

“Wriothesley,” the dragon warned, a soft drown gracing his features as he drew the man's attention. He was thankful that Neuvillette saw fit to save the Archon with how struck he’d been from the blunt opinion.

“Apologies. I didn’t mean for it to come off as it seemed,” the Duke teased lightly, but appeared to be well aware of the reaction. He’d been serious about the statement, but had made the comment in a good natured sense? Then he was an overly honest type?

Morax let a soft breath leave him. He’d been surprised so many times that day he feared he was going to mistake a serious statement for a joke at some point while he was there. He still struggled quite easily with social conversation. At least within his own nation, he understood the method of jest while conversing.

“I appreciate the flattery,” he bowed his head in return before straightening up and crossing his arms loosely against his chest.
“It’s a pleasure to meet you, your Grace. The Iudex saw fit to introduce us while I’m within the Hydro Archons borders,” at that, he momentarily saw the man freeze and glance over his shoulder. He had almost felt the ‘uh oh’ in the air the moment he’d said that the dragon had wanted to have them meet.

“The pleasure is mine!” the Duke rushed and bowed instantly, very low in respect. It almost seemed as if he were trying to recover from a misstep with the Archon, which amused him. Neuvillette however…

“If you’ll excuse us,” the dragon bowed shortly, “We can discuss the Stone Forest upon my return to my office, Rex Lapis,” and with that, Focalors had tugged the Geo Archon slightly aside, striding back over the narrow walkway towards the fountain once more.

Notes:

Sorry again that it's pretty short compared to the others.
- Basically, I really like my two days post schedule because it keeps me busy and I turned it into a routine. I ran out of time though, so I posted what I had. I did alter the end so that it'll work into the next chapter decently enough and that's obviously going to be Neuvillette helping Morax out with Guyun Stone Forest.
- The reason for running out of time is that I had a couple of decent ideas for another few stories, one being the Zhongli/Dan Feng story, another being Blade/Zhongli, and another was Menogias/Zhongli. I may be a lil' obsessed xD

Promise the next one will be longer!

Chapter 23

Notes:

Thought I was about to need another day to get this written up O_O

As surprising as it was, Morax had spent most of the day on a tour with the very lively Hydro Archon excitedly pointing out key locations, her preferred diners and cafes along with her favourite meals and beverages while also introducing him to a few others that she’d interacted with on occasion. It was amusing as they technically knew of him but was genuinely taken aback by his presence.

He was a tad amused by the reaction of three young individuals, magicians from what Focalors had said, and the more shy of the three had stared, gawking in surprise when the Archon had spoken to greet them. From what he’d taken in, a young boy was training to be in the same position as the feline girl that worked alongside the more outgoing of them. He’d have been interested in watching a performance if it wasn’t so close to his time of departure. He wasn’t sure if he had anything left to finalise after resealing the Stone Forest, but he also did not want to leave anything to chance by taking too long to get around to it. He didn’t feel as though he had forgotten anything, but he refused to risk it.

Upon the end of the tour and chatter, Focalors had redirected them to the Palais Mermonia, a simple ride in a finely designed lift to the very top and the building was dead ahead of them, again surprising a few people as they appeared and made their way across a sturdy bridge path to the structure across the way.

They re-entered the building, strolling past the same people that had been sitting at their tables against the walls once again and continued to eye him sheepishly. A simple smile and greeting to the adorable Melusine that had been waiting for them and they were ushered into the room where the Archon saw the dragon at his desk, eyeing a few files and organising something after his meeting with the Duke of Meropide. An interesting interaction, he’d admit, and one that he would not inform Jing Yuan of unless asked… Or to tease him in return for all the flustering he’d caused while he’d been in the harbour.

“Alrighty~. Although I would enjoy nothing more than to continue blathering about my beautiful and grandiose nation, I’m well aware that my mere presence would be a distraction for you boys while you talk about the Stone Forest. So! I’ll love you and leave you to your planning~, toodles!” she’d honestly not given either a chance to reply to that before the doors were abruptly shut behind the Hydro Archon.

Morax stared at the surface of said doors, blinking blankly and being a tad lost in trying to understand her motive behind leaving them alone. Yes, they were to speak of the resealing, but did it require their solitude from her? He saw no reason to leave her out of the discussion… then again, maybe it was a test? She had to be aware that there had been tension between the dragon and Archons due to their status. Then again, she appeared to be fine with the dragon and vice versa… Had there really been any tension or were they simply manifesting the hostility?

“Having never visited Guyun Stone Forest, I’ll need your knowledge,” the dragon's voice drew his attention, Morax turning to eye the being that had seemingly paused his desk cleaning to address him directly.

“What would you require specifically?” the God questioned simply and made his way over, stopping in front of the Iudex’s workspace. All in all, he hadn’t felt much reluctance or negativity towards him since the initial introduction. Had it been the request of his aid to save his General from Karmic Debt?

“The centre location of the seal, where you created the seal initially. The position and angle of the lances and your permission to allow access between our power so that we can share the-,”

“No,” Morax cut in swiftly, causing the Iudex to pause in mild surprise, “I can supply the locations and the lance angles and positions. But in regards to our connection, I request that it be one-way access and that you use my power,” the Archon inquired firmly, never breaking gaze with the dragon as they’d locked. He appeared quite taken aback by it, frowning in question at him as if it was something he hadn’t expected, understandably.

“You ask that I only draw on your power to lock my end of the seal… You’re aware that it would mean losing double the amount of your power that would be required to seal only one ,” Neuvillette attempted to reason, files and papers forgotten as he’d eyed him, the questions very clear on his face as to why Morax wanted this.

“I’m aware,” the God replied with a nod, the frown seeming to grow due to his answer. He’d had the assumption that a lot of his power would be taken, but in regards to his situation and where he hoped to go once this was over, he would unlikely need it and the cost was worth the results.

“My power will recover over time. Yours will not,” the dragon continued, eyeing him to see some tell tale sign of hesitancy, which he would not find, “It will take a significant amount of your Archonic power, Rex Lapis,” the dragon pushed further, but Morax gave him another nod.

“I’m aware,” he’d repeated, giving him a somewhat bittersweet smile. To feel as though the Chief Justice cared enough to try and understand his reasoning for this, it did warm him considering the years they appeared to detest each other and then this situation was what drew some emotion from the dragon.

“... You’re quite serious about stepping down, aren’t you,” said dragon was eyeing him, a gradually softened expression reaching his graceful features. He had genuinely seemed to deflate upon the knowledge being processed.

“I am,” Morax confirmed with a far gentler tone, the smile still present, “By the end of the sealing, I assume that I’ll return to my status as Liyue’s strongest Adeptus. Then again, I’ll likely not be within Liyue by the end of the two weeks to reclaim it,” a soft chuff left him, finding it both something saddening but relieving to think about. His position really did give him a conflicted mind.

“Are you to reside in another nation?” Neuvillette questioned, appearing surprised by the statement and had begun to round the desk towards him as if the closer proximity would give him his answers.

“No, I won’t be in Teyvat anymore,” Morax tilted his head with the statement, only to see the utter shock and concern strike the other being, his gaze widening drastically and mouth falling open, the pure worry that exploded from him.

“Are you alright? Are you gravely ill? Are Archons able to ‘fall’ ill-, are you eroding?” the dragon rushed his words, appearing to grow closer and closer to him with each question. It suddenly hit him as to why he seemed so shocked.

“I won’t perish, I assure you! I’m not eroding nor have I fallen ill with anything!” Morax reassured as best he could, feeling the other standing within his space bubble so firmly and swiftly. It had been a shock to him to be reacted to like this from the dragon of all beings.

Neuvillette lingered, eyeing him so strictly and solidly as if to confirm it for himself by staring him over. In all honesty, it was both a worry and a comfort to know that he might have gotten some form of connection with the dragon despite the past known hostility towards each other. He watched as the dragon sighed deeply and straightened up, pinching his brow with open exasperation towards the Geo Archon.

“And Lady Furina claims that I need lessons of wording,” he’d muttered towards himself behind his hand, rubbing lightly and appearing to have had a panic from what Morax had said. It was very much unintentional. Had the dragon been a mortal, he’d fear giving the man a heart attack.

“Apologies,” Morax chuckled sheepishly, rubbing the side of his neck. Concerning the fear he’d caused, he felt the need to elaborate, especially with the firm stare he’d been given when he’d chuckled…
“... In short, recently, I’d met a Descender. He’s quite aware of my mentality and exhaustion as the Archon and invited me to return with him to his world. I accepted,” he explained as simply as he could, seeing the questioning stare and brow quirk from the serpent.

“I sense something more to it,” Neuvillette muttered, pinning Morax with an analytical expression, watching him carefully with a slightly narrowed gaze.

“I…” the God hesitated, his own gaze lowering in his attempt, “... Can’t word what we share so simply,” he summarised, loosely crossing his arms over his chest with a thoughtful look. He had no word for it, no simple label, no way to explain it to the dragon for him to understand. I felt that they were more than partners, but not quite lovers? He wasn’t entirely certain.

“Then it must be a strong emotion you feel for him,” the dragon's voice drew his gaze, seeing the soft stare before he lifted a hand and gently patted his shoulder, letting it fall a moment later before the man turned towards the doors.
“Come, the seals won’t create themselves,”

Morax paused, blinking in mild surprise but then followed after him, skipping some to reach the others stride. He’d followed the dragon out of his office and gave the young Melusine a smile along with the serpent before they headed towards the main doors. He had quite a fast and broad stride, he’d admit to having to speed up just slightly if only to keep at his side.

“Are there any Waypoints in the area?” Neuvillette questioned, again drawing his attention as they stepped out of the building and turned right towards the Hydro Archon Shrine that sat brightly in the corner near the stairs to the Palais.

“There’s a Domain on the main island and also a Waypoint on the island beside the isle to the very West,” he informed simply, slowing as the dragon did, watching carefully as he’d lifted a hand to the monument and suddenly disappeared in a flash. Morax blinked, a tad surprised with the lack of hesitance from the being. He’d trusted his word so swiftly and simply.

With a shrug, the God stepped forward and repeated the creatures actions, a blink later and he was standing ahead of the doors once more that day, gazing at the design before stepping back and eyeing his surroundings to see the dragon standing at the cave opening directly behind him, staring at the harbour from their distance. He appeared a tad enthralled, bringing a soft smile to Morax’s lips.

“It’s quite a sight during dusk, the lanterns of the city glow brightly and illuminate this half of the nation. Some say that you’re able to see it from Inazuma,” he chuckled softly as he made his way towards him, stopping short to see the warm gaze. Even from there, one could see the lively harbour, children running, workers working, the boats actively moving along the waters. The hustle and bustle of such a small area of Liyue was a grand sight.

“I can imagine,” the man's breathy reply came before a clearing of his throat, “Where is the centre of the seal?” he swiftly regained his composure, eyeing the God.

“This way,” Morax nodded and stepped away towards the mouth of the small rocky cave, stepping into the soft sand that immediately crowded his boots in a hug.
“I vividly recall creating it from a spot directly between the portation points, but it’s beneath the surface. I’ll need to raise it,” he frowned some as he meandered along towards the water's edge with the dragon beside him.

“Are you able to locate the direction?,” at the dragon's question, Morax nodded and lifted his arm, aiming perfectly towards where he knew he’d made the seal before. In an instant, the sand shifted beside him, drawing his gaze. He saw Neuvillette’s own arm lift, a glow of light blue emanating from him so brightly. He’d paused, hearing a shift in the breeze and glance forward once more to see the water beginning to separate, parting between them and giving them a narrow walkway from the sand to stoney earth, the circular Geo pattern far ahead being ever prominent and accurately estimated in its location.

“Aren’t you quite the show off,” Morax smirked, earning himself a default deadpan expression, he could easily feel the sass in the stare, challenging him to continue, which aided in growing the smirk.

The Archon began forward, stepping along the sand between the rise in water as the land gradually angled lower and deeper beneath the water level. The softness of the sand made way for a far more firm ground, stone making itself visible the deeper they strode and eventually, the Geo Sigil in the ground grew in detail and intricacy, distinctly visible and distinctly a seal, so deeply broken into the ground that nothing would erode it over time.

Morax slowed, staring at it before stepping over it, feeling the buzz of his element grip his core as the seal recognized its creator… He turned to eye the dragon, shifting over to give him room to stand beside him. The other did eventually join him, his breathing pattern wavering upon stepping on the seal, but hadn’t appeared to affect him for long.

The God took a breath and focused, his eyes closing, his body gradually glowing gold, his hair tip shining. The ground rumbled soft under him, shifting as he concentrated his power into elevation. They raised slowly, the Sigil lifting and lifting until they were at sea level, the water being eased around them as the serpent eased his control from keeping it apart.

“Parden,” Neuvillette hummed, the Geo Archon eyeing him as his hand lifted to his chest, just barely touching skin and only a second later did he feel the tether flicker in his core, the connection having been swiftly created between them, though only one-way as he’d requested… He was a tad nervous…

Another breath was taken, deeper, to compose himself. And in that time, he’d watched as the dragon stepped over the water, suddenly standing on it as if it were a solid surface. He eyed him, having found it quite interesting.

“Are you sure of this method?” he heard the man speak up, again asking about the usage of power. And a simple stare and nod from the Geo Archon, it appeared that they were about to begin. His nerves were forced down, a soft frown reaching his features as he stood firm on the stone.

“Now,” he breathed. Morax raised his hands waist high, glowing gold while Neuvillette shone blue, their brightness growing and broadening, the wind catching between them and being forced away with the sheer power that was coursing. And in time, Morax fisted his hands in unison with the dragon tapping the water surface with his cane. A grand ring of gold above the surface and blue below sprang out together, getting wider and wider with a gust, and the moment it halted in a massive ring around the Stone Forest…

Pain erupted in his chest, his entire being instantly burning and searing beneath his skin. He yelled, eye snapping shut as his legs gave out from under him as it felt as though he was being torn apart from the inside.

He was suddenly gripping tight to the dragon as he’d been grabbed before he could hit the water, his mind turning white and throat growing hoarse within seconds from the pain that forced his consciousness to fade fast. A moment later…

Morax grew limp, feeling a burning heat under his skin as he fell into darkness against the firm body holding him.

Notes:

Arighty!! Ooooooff this chapter!! Hefty oooooffs in the chat! XD

And here we see Neuvillette actually working with Morax and Morax being a lil' more expressive, which I'm glad I could add!
Very happy with how this one played out, but the ending hurt me T^T

ANYWHO, I'll be adding another day between chapters because I struggled to focus on this for some reason. So there'll be two days between the chapters so that I know that I can get it done with enough words per chapter, and if I get it done a day early, then awesome!

Chapter 24

Notes:

Coming at you with a Beginning to the End ;)

With the help of Yanqing and a few of his office staff workers, Jin Yuan had done well to put a very large dent in the amount of work he’d returned to. From what he was resting flatly against the surface of his desk was about the usual amount he’d have a week. There was still a little left to go, but he had time. A few days, four at most…

“Four days,” he smiled softly, solely focused on the date. Only a few days later, he and the Dragon Lady would be returning to Liyue, returning to Morax. The time had passed by so swiftly while his head had been fused to his work and training and his efforts had not been in vain. Not only had he given himself a deadline that he’d followed, he’d given his Retainer some experience in what he’d done daily by giving him a few folders per day. And based on the difficulty, it was a pleasant surprise to see that he’d managed to both focus and finalise the papers with hesitant efficiency. He still had a way to go, but with time and less questioning himself, the General could include him further overtime to earn that much more in terms of confidence and experience.

Not only that, it would give him more time to aid the God in acclimatising to his Flagship and give him more time to meet and greet. He was eager to introduce the Retainer to him, and maybe the Diviner, while also making sure that she did not attempt to use her abilities to pry.

A soft breath escaped him as he eyed his desk, glad to have lessened the sheer amount he’d returned to. It’d eased his mind to think that he’d done so much in so little time, foremost, for him to be able to have his time shared upon the God’s arrival to his world.

… The thought of giving him a fine gander of the ship, to show him the local locations he frequented, the areas he found comfort, the market, shopping district, his own chambers, even the darker areas, which amusingly reminded him of the little General. The Fyxestroll Garden, as he’d thought before, did give him the same feeling as the being…

“General! I finished another!” he was drawn from his thoughts by his Retainer’s call from behind him, the General glancing over his shoulder towards the smaller desk that he had placed on the platform for him, seeing his bright smile and the finished folder. Another particularly decently difficult one for the boys' experience level, and yet he appeared quite enthusiastic.

“Well done,” with a smile, Jing Yuan moved to stand and stepped away from his desk and made his way towards the other, reaching out to carefully pluck the folder from his grasp to eye it for himself. And upon analysing the results, he had to commend the boy for his process as it was quite meticulous and straightforward along with his well worded method to conclude the situation.

“General?” the boy spoke up, drawing a hum from the man, “You don’t suppose I could come with you?” at that, the General paused his reading, lowering the file to give him his attention, tilting his head in some mild confusion, uncertain of what he’d meant.

“Come with me where?” he’d paused, seeing the almost sheepish hesitancy, as if debating on whether to ask further or elaborate. It appeared to be important, though the only travelling he’d be doing any time soon would be-.

“To Liyue, when you go to see Lord Morax?” yes, that, “To bring him back?” the expression he gave, it was still somewhat sheepish, but he could see an eagerness to it. He’d had a few conversations with him regarding the place and with what he’d described, it was understandable.

“Maybe. Give me time to think about it,” although it was somewhat irresponsible a thought, he knew that Yanqing would likely very much enjoy the nation. It held such beauty, a calm, relaxing and welcoming homely air to it. It wasn’t a wonder why Jing Yuan had enjoyed his time. Though he’d been officially welcomed by the Archon himself as well.

“Thank you, General,” the young boy smiled, the General returning it before tilting the file once more to continue reading the conclusion to the boy's method.

“I’m quite excited to introduce the two of you. He was quite enthralled when I mentioned my Retainer,” he explained, smirking while reading along. As detailed and smooth, though a mistake in one area of the report so far. A simple fix.

“Really?” Yanqing beamed, his smile radiating ‘through’ the file. He lowered it slightly once more, feeling the need to maybe continue reading after he’d given another file to work on.

“Indeed. He seems to be fond of the younger generations,” the General mentioned simply, seeing the boy's expression sour comically at the reason. He knew very well that Morax appeared to enjoy the enthusiasm of the younger people within his nation. And Yanqing, well… he was a child and still held quite a high position. Morax would very likely adore the boy.

“I’m not a kid,” his Retainer pouted softly, seemingly having deflated just slightly at that.

“To him, you most definitely are,” Jing Yuan snorted amusedly, very well aware that most if not all on the Xianzhou Luofu would be considered a child to the being.

—--

To his knowledge and mathematical experience, his Lord had been unconscious for a few days, so much so that he and Rex Lapis only had a couple of days short of a week before that small dragon and his lord's partner made their reappearance.

Xiao’s core hung heavy, still frowning days later as he’d watched the Archo-... His expression grew deeper, wanting to chide his God for doing what he’d done. The dragon had explained everything down to his decision to use his Archon power over sharing the inevitably large amount that it’d take to create a seal of that strength and size. He’d witnessed Morax seal it before and that had taken enough to affect him. The Seal had been strong, yes, but it’d leaked still. So sealing it as an entirety…

It’d taken away his Archonic power.

The Yaksha had lost his nerve instantly upon seeing the Fontainian dragon waltz into the Harbour carrying an unconscious Rex Lapis. It’d shook him, Ganyu, the population that had seen the event. His face had been knitted in tension, appearing to be in pain, struggling while asleep and the moment that he had been placed on a bed within the nearest Inn beneath the Heyu Tea House, both the serpent and Baizhu had gone about checking him over, though the Iudex had been the one to conclude the findings with the Pharmacists agreement. 

And of course, the news had spread fast within the few days that the God had been lifelessly lying there, some having even come to the saddening thought that the Archon had actually died, rather than faked it as a test. That had also been an idiotic theory, that he was simply faking again.

“Fools,” he gritted, his grip on the knee of his pants tightening as he glared at the motionless form of his leader. He wasn’t feigning this, he hadn’t perished. The struggle of the strength of two powerful seals to cut off the Karmic Debt had taken the power that Celestia had bestowed upon the Geo Adeptus, it had been torn from him, from his Core… anyone would have not dared to stay awake when feeling that amount being ripped from their Soul… But did that mean?

“Does the Geo Archon throne not exist anymore?” he muttered his thoughts with a frown, his gaze lowering. If the power had been ripped from him to be used as a permanent seal, there would be no future Archon of Liyue.

“In a sense,” the dragon's voice reached him, drawing his attention, “Though he does not have the power in his possession, it is still active, if only to seal the beasts below the forest indefinitely. The throne is there due to the active power, but inactively held by no vessel,” the Yaksha stared, eyeing him firmly.

“Then there will be no future Archon after him,” he stated the theory, earning a nod from the Iudex as he appeared to return to his silence. It was odd having the man there. Though he’d travelled via a Waypoint to and from his own nation, it seemed apparent that he felt for the God and had returned to keep track of his state, and each day, the frown graced his features as Rex Lapis continued to sleep. Xiao had reassured him that something to this effect had happened before when the seal was first placed, but this was far grander in scale.

In a way, he should have known that this would happen… Had he not thought ahead, Xiao would be ready to speak his mind, regardless of obtaining permission from the Archo-...

The Yaksha huffed curtly, uncertain of whether to call him an Archon without his power. He was still his Lord, but… Ugh, he was obtaining a headache.

A soft groan drew both their attention, Xiao snapping to stand and leaned over the bed within seconds with the dragon standing beside him.

—--

Morax’s body ached fiercely, the muscle beneath skin threatening to pulse painfully along with the forceful thrum of his inner being. He hadn’t dared to move, didn’t risk the knowing throb that would strike the moment he did. It was already enough that he felt so heavy against the soft material below… yet so light. His Core had so much lightness to it, not weighed down by the power he previously held. Had most of his power been claimed for the seal?

He breathed harshly for a moment, frowning gently. It felt far too light for what little he likely had left… A softer breath left him before he’d attempted to try and open his eyes, struggling for but a moment before his lids parted and he was met with a predictable scene. Above him were the unfocused figures of his General and Neuvillette, the two standing there with concerned expressions.

“... Please explain,” his voice was hoarse, thick with sleep that it did worry him for a moment. He sounded a tad rougher than expected and though he’d expected this, it was still quite a shock to hear how lacking, as much as he’d felt with how weak he was physically.

“You’ve been unconscious for over a week,” his blood ran cold, his gaze widening greatly.

“What?” he swiftly attempted to sit up, but his muscle, his bones, his everything screamed in protest, drawing a pained growl from him before he’d dropped back to the mattress, gasping as his Core chided him for having even attempted to move.
A part of him had felt as though his Yaksha had said it as a joke, but his entire being argued that he never jested so bluntly.

“Calm,” the dragons voice reached him, the God feeling a smooth hand lightly pressed to his chest, both keeping him in place and sending a wave of cool warmth through his nerves, through his bones and deeper. He clenched his teeth behind his lips, swallowing. The Iudex was healing him, or calming his fighting pain.
“Your General is correct. You’ve been bedridden while unconscious for almost ten days. It appears that doubling the seal for permanence has taken your entire power as an Archon,” again, he paled, mouth falling open. It… stunned him. No wonder his being had felt so light.

“... I don’t have Archonic power?” though it was a question, it sounded far more akin to a statement. His gaze fell shut, feeling the warmth calm his internals, his mind in addition. It was a soothing feeling.

“No, it was ripped from you. Hence the pain you felt before falling into a sleepful state,” the dragon explained simply, his hand shifting a tad lower, just beneath his ribs to further the sensation and drive it deeper.

“You still have your Adeptal powers though,” Xiao spoke, the Ar-, Morax eyeing him upon opening his gaze again. He appeared troubled still, though was attempting to reassure the older Adeptus.
“I can feel the strength, it is unchanged,” at that, it was something positive. He still had his original power.

“A relief,” he breathed, giving him a light smile. He… was still very shaken by the knowledge, made aware that he no longer had that immense power-, he couldn’t even feel the Gnosis, which was a concern.

Admittedly… he preferred the lack of Archonic weight and it was a good coincidence that he’d lost it before his leave… a leave that had come by so swiftly due to having passed out. It made the seals permanent, a safety for anyone easily affected by what had taken his other Yaksha and could have taken the last. It was… a relief, a relief that he would have Xiao with him still…

“Four… maybe five days,” the older Adeptus muttered softly, staring up at the ceiling as the dragon lifted his hand from him. The calm warmth stayed, keeping his relaxed state stagnant while he breathed far more easily.

“Less than a week before he returns for you,” the Yaksha followed his thoughts, though seemed to forget…

“Us,” Morax corrected swiftly, tilting his head to see the softer expression on his face, the far more gentle calm that came to him. A reaction, very likely still processing that he was freed of the Debt and could travel with him without fear of negatively affecting others. He could still feel the Karma within his system, but he knew it would be cleansed over time, which he’d noticed with this particular Yaksha… he slowly purified what was within him, which was the reason for his stable sanity despite the years of Karmic Debt.

Now with it sealed, whatever was left within him would recycle and be cleansed of darkness… being cleansed… Morax had been cleansed of the Archon power for it, a good trade, he’d confidently utter without hesitation. Though…

“... A thought troubles me,” Morax frowned softly, “I can't feel my Gnosis,” he explained rather simply, his gaze falling to the Chief Justice that had stood up and brushed his clothing straight. He didn’t appear to be worried at all by the news.

“Upon losing consciousness, it fell from you,” the dragon stated casually and returned to a firm posture with his cane in hand, “Cloud Retainer appeared and asked for it. Alatus explained your request of her, so I gave it to her,” as forward and simple as ever, it appeared. Morax sighed, having not expected that to be the case. He really had no clue as to what had happened post falling unconscious.

“Good. Thank you,” he breathed softly, returning his gaze to the ceiling. So much, without his knowledge, had happened and he felt a tad guilty that she’d retrieved the Gnosis far earlier than agreed upon. Then again, it gave him time to calm before his leave-.

A sharp rumble shot through the ground and air followed by a sudden chorus of yells and screams, rushing footfalls thrumming through the ground.

Morax's gaze snapped wide and the two standing were suddenly at the door, the Yaksha stepping further out with a deep glare, alerted to whatever had happened. Morax’s core throbbed in his attempt to sit up, concern scratching beneath his skin.

“Stay!” Xiao yelled towards him, pinning him with his harsh stare before he was gone from the spot, having disappeared. Though the former Archon felt the urge to disobey and attempted to move, being stopped immediately by the foot of a cane being pressed to his chest.

“As your General ordered,” the dragon's voice boomed through him, the expression and air he held being… suddenly quite intimidating.

Notes:

As I said, I'm planning to have a couple of days in between chapters as I'm finding myself to be a little busier IRL, which sucks big time.

So far, I've not heard anyone say "No" to an epilogue chapter where Zhongli and Jing Yuan have a child, so that's gonna happen and it'll be sweet~.
I might have a short idea for a Blade/Zhongli thing, just a one chapter thingy because the idea won't leave me alone.

Chapter 25

Notes:

Warning, I'm terrible at battle scenes, so bear with me. I much prefer the softer fluff stuff or the tease'y stuff.

He was thankful that Rex Lapis had awoken finally, but the timing was far less than grand as he processed the sight before him. He glared ahead, scowling out over the ocean to see the Avenger of the Vortex herself, the three headed Hydro hydra staring down the harbour. Beisht had finally made her debut.

The Yaksha growled under his breath, forcing his gaze to part from the monster and glanced below to the dock where civilians were running to the upper slopes, swiftly putting distance between themselves and the being. And he couldn’t help. He was to wait aside, forced to stay out of the way.

“Alatus!” a call came from below and the Adeptus reluctantly turned from the scene and dropped the distance back to the room entrance, finding the dragon standing there with a frown.

“Beisht has made an appearance,” he informed curtly, a hiss to his tone. He watched as Lord Morax stiffened and attempted to move, but the Iudex’s cane firmly pressed back, forcing him to strain… They needed to move him, to be sure that he would not be within reach of harm in his current state nor intervene, as he very likely would attempt to. Rex Lapis hadn’t been contracted against it as Xiao had.

“I assume we’re to fight,” the Chief Justice spoke up and stepped closer to the window to see the beast hissing and spewing a thick spray of high speed water towards the harbour, striking the lower dock of Chihu Rock.

“Unfortunately, I cannot and Rex Lapis knows not to due to his departure,” he sighed deeply and crossed his arms, his gaze lying firmly on the foreigner Archon as he gently shifted the cane and appeared to carefully sit, the dragon holding out an arm to his for support.

“Explain,” Neuvillette grumbled softly, helping Rex Lapis until he was sitting comfortably, though seemed to strain for just a moment. With the order, the Yaksha’s gaze flicked between himself and the former God, unable to explain without breaking the contract and with the look he shared with Morax, the older Adeptus nodded.

“The Jade Chamber has been weaponized for situations such as this. If I intervene, Liyue will not proceed to improve. Xiao was very likely contracted to join in due to leaving with me upon explaining the situation to Cloud Retainer,” Morax explained for him, eyeing him with the latter half of the sentence and the Yaksha nodded to confirm the theory.

“I see,” the dragon hummed, “So then the two of you aren’t able to join in the fight whatsoever as this harbour needs to be able to withstand future battle,” he’d summed up with a perfect understanding. He’d caught on so fast.
“Then I suggest you find a safe location. This is far from secure with him in this state,” the Iudex continued, tapping Rex Lapis' shoulder with the handle of his cane before turning towards the smaller Adeptus and making his way towards him, or more specifically, the door.

“You’re leaving?” Xiao frowned some, watching him as he paused in the doorway, he appeared to stare in question in return, blinking with an unreadable expression as if him taking his leave was expected.

“Much akin to yourself, if I intervene, it would pose the same results,” the dragon explained, turning to share a glance between the both of them. The silence lingered after that, Xiao realising that him being there would really only be a variation of Rex Lapis if he truly did lend a hand.

“Thank you, Neuvillette,” Rex Lapis’ voice drew him from his brief thought, his yellow eyes lifting to him and then the dragon again.

“... It was my pleasure, Morax,” the serpent bowed slightly, “Take care. And do visit. Lady Furina is already very fond of you,” he’d cracked a fraction of a smile before turning away and stepping out of sight with the door falling closed behind him. And within seconds, it was as if he hadn’t been there, there was no lingering effect of his presence, no sense of his power, no atmospheric shifting. He was simply gone.

—--

Morax lowered his gaze, able to feel some aching still, but what the dragon had done had most definitely helped him refocus and feel far less than he could before in terms of pain. He let a soft breath leave him and lifted his gaze to the window, being as careful as he could and used the bedside table to aid him as he’d attempted to stand, Xiao instantly being there and helped him, taking some of his weight.

“What should we do?” the Yaksha asked with a low voice as they stepped closer, his hand bracing the wall. He stared out at the chaos, able to hear the yelling and see the beast taking her anger out on the harbour. From this distance, he could only see from an awkward angle, but he could absolutely pick out a few others heading ‘towards’ the dock… one being Shenhe. They were heading into battle.

“Allow the humans their chance to prove the age of the Adepti is over,” Morax replied slowly, straightening up that little bit more before attempting to turn around and head for the door, Xiao still aiding him until they were finally outside.

The air had grown cold, filled with a dark breeze that blew with the deeper greyed clouds that had overtaken the harbour, flickers of blue striking the area. Fortunately, the civilians were very few and far between when rushing passed, Qiqi appearing to aid a few further along the street, doing well to keep them from harm. It was only himself and Xiao that were prohibited.

“To my usual spot,” Morax requested as he’d stopped, feeling the ache in his core from such a simple and short few steps. He’d need the few days left to rest at this rate.

“Wouldn’t that be too close?” his Yaksha asked with obvious concern, a soft frown on his delicate features. He smiled gently in return, very aware that it was close, but he planned to avoid standing near the very edge as he usually did when standing at the cliff edge North East of the harbour.

“If it becomes a risk, I’m sure you’ll relocate us,” he reassured as warmly as he could, very aware that he was being given a flat stare the moment he’d said it.

Regardless, within seconds, his scenery had changed and they were standing near the spot that he usually took when observing the Stone Forest. And from the angle, Beisht’s back was facing them, unaware of their presence. It was then that Morax saw the utter glory that was the Jade Chamber being broken from its shackles behind the harbour, rising high with an immense anticipation.

His gaze grew wide, watching as it gradually and smoothly glided over the land, growing closer and closer, a glow of gold following and then breaking the sight of the deep grey sky behind it as large spreads of golden diamonds appeared on either side, the centre of each diamond beginning to glow. A beautiful yet devastating amount of power and damage building up within the shapes.

The creature opened its mouth, appearing to roar, but it was cut off very short as the Jade Chamber released the onslaught, a barrage of golden projectiles striking Beisht without mercy, breaking against the hydro serpent much akin to Lady Ningguang's natural Geo abilities.

What was not expected was a second barrage from an island below, hidden from Morax’s sight, more strikes in the shape of the Ballista spears cutting through the wind and landing with perfect precision. This time, Beisht had turned her sights on whatever it was and widened her jaw, a glow of blue sparking between her opened mouth, planning her counterattack, only…

She hadn’t gotten the chance. She was struck by one, large, harsh blow of the same type of strike, Morax’s gaze following the origin to see the Crux sailing dangerously close, golden glows coming from her on-ship weaponry. They’d modified her ship for this.

He watched as the onslaught from three sides overtook her, her roars and hisses ringing out, filling the air and even sometimes overlapping the sounds of firing from the Chamber and Ballista. It was completely one-sided, the hydra being unable to take the downpour. It was something incredible to behold, a greatly unexpected sight to witness.

Though akin to a cornered beast, they only took so much before retaliating. And she did.

A scowl graced his features as a monstrous roar broke out, the sheer power behind it momentarily halting any strike before the force behind her scream shook the water, her immediate surroundings sending a massive wave from her position. Morax’s heart sank as the waves headed for the Crux, a tight grip on his arm keeping him in place while his core hammered, pulsing with the want to intervene.

“Don’t,” Xiao’s soft voice reached him, drawing his gaze and he could see the pure rage on the younger Adeptus’ face, sharing the fear and need but was holding back as much as he could.

He had to hold back, he had to stay put. They couldn’t interve-.

Returning his gaze to the ocean, the wave. The Tsunami towered high, having grown to be above the Jade Chamber and the spot where both he and Xiao stood. His eyes grew wide. They were at risk-.

Suddenly, a wall of ice overtook the water, a cold, heavy breeze completely sealing the wave in its place before that sudden onslaught continued, striking the ice and breaking it down in flakes of heavy snow. Beisht was the target once more and she was completely at the mercy on three sides once more, the monster gradually backing up further and further to put some distance in an attempt to give herself the chance to strike back, but she was not given the moment, no brief few seconds to retaliate or even catch her breath.

In only moments, she was forced back behind the Stone Forest, continuously being backed up until it was clear that she had no chance against the New era… Because it was just that, the Era of Mortals.

Morax watched as she turned and dived, her dark gloom easing through the water away from the harbour itself. After only moments, he could not see her, even when the looming dark clouds above gradually parted to shine light upon them once more.

It was… so fast. The victor of the battle had been decided before it had begun… Liyue.

“We could have removed her immediately,” a voice beside him muttered, Morax dropping his gaze to the Yaksha. It was very clear that he had been white-knuckled the entire time, but very relieved as it had ended so swiftly. As was Morax, it’d been a shocking scene, but… he was glad that it had been so swift. He feared that Liyue was a tad overpowered.

“I’m quite aware, but… they’ve done exceedingly well without the Adepti,” he smiled, gently patting the Yaksha’s shoulder, said small bundle of touch muscle having eased from its previously tensed state. The young being had loosened his iron grip on the Geo Adeptus’ arm at least.

“They have,” Xiao replied with a simple sigh, Morax watching as his gaze lingered on the sun glowing ocean ahead of them. It really did appear that Beisht had fled after that out-of-nowhere attack. It was severely unexpected and even Morax would agree that it would come as a shock if he were as underprepared as she had been.

“It appears that Liyue will thrive without us,” he smiled a tad bitterly… but with honest appreciation that this was only come to be for his wish to step down. Though with his Archonic power having been removed for the Seals, it was unintentionally early.

“Shall we return, Rex Lapis?” his Yaksha asked quietly, glancing up towards him. As much as he’d wanted to congratulate them, he felt the urge to… sit, to relax.

“Not yet,” he sighed softly, starting a slow walk with Xiao’s aid towards his spot. Moments passed before they reached it and he carefully lowered to sit, feeling secure and comfortable in his position. He calmed, taking deep breaths to feel his being, his surroundings, his Yaksha standing behind him in silence. 

He wouldn’t feel it here after the few days that he had left. He’d feel it elsewhere, where he’d find a similar spot to reflect and calm himself…

“Xiao… as strange a question as it is… Had Menogias finished the other set of clothing I’d requested back then?” he’d asked, taking a glance over his shoulder to see the quirked brow being aimed his way.

“I believe he did. He left it in your Adeptal space,” the Adeptus replied soon after, and Morax could believe that. It had been a very long time since he’d ventured into his Serenity Chamber on Mt. Hulao.

“Thank you… I’d like to return to the Yaksha temple before meeting with Lady Ningguang,” a soft sigh slipped from him, a smile following. He’d always loved Menogias’s artistic eye for clothing. He could not recall a time where he hadn’t worn something crafted by the Geo Yaksha.

“Understood,” Xiao muttered, though didn’t move to help him up as Morax stayed where he sat, giving no indication that he’d wanted to leave just then.

Notes:

Just to make things clear, I'm aware that Zhongli was already an immensely powerful God, and that he was only given the 'title' of Archon due to winning the war for his Nation. If I didn't make it obvious in the story, I'll explain.

Zhongli has two sets of powers. Everything he had canonically before as an Adeptus, and what extra Celestia gave him when he was given the title of Archon. I NEEDED this in order for it to make sense when he was sealing the Guyun Stone Forest so "XIAO COULD LEAVE WITH HIM" and so he still had his own power, minus what Celestia gave him. He had to give up something big in order to 100% seal the Stone Forest and I wasn't about to make him a mortal by taking ALL of his canon power.

Please don't correct me on canonical lore/traits. What I write in my fanfics is intentional. ^^

Chapter 26

Notes:

I got carried away with this one, as you'll very likely tell.
Another 3.5k ish.

HEADS UP!!! Zhongli is wearing THIS NEW SKIN for this chapter!!

Jing Yuan had to admit that time spent working had advanced the days so swiftly, leaving him with little to no time to relax, but with the aid of his staff and Retainer, the very last day had come to a close and he was quite ready to introduce the God to his world, hoping that nothing had detoured Morax into delaying his departure. His heart ached some to think about the other having to postpone or cancel his own retirement.

“So… you’re just going to get him, right? You’re not staying there for a day or two?” his retainer spoke up in question as he’d followed after the General down the small ramp to the sand of Scalegorge. Against the boy's wishes, the man had decided against letting him see the other world just yet. This wasn’t a simple visit, but rather a retrieval. Given Morax’s acceptance, he would allow the boy his time to take in that very beautiful view.

“Correct. I hope for a swift return, though I’ll give him whatever time he wishes if he needs to further share his time to say his goodbyes,” he smiled warmly, simply talking about it giving him a flutter within his chest. From his Goodbyes to Hellos to Jing Yuan’s comrades and friends.

Ahead, his gaze fell upon the two Vidyadhara sharing a conversation, Bailu appearing rather giddy as she made a few animated hand gestures towards the taller, more reserved of the two who was adorning his very recognizable draconic appearance.

“Dragon Lady! Imbibitor Lunae!” Yanqing called excitedly from beside the General before skipping off from his spot and kicking sand up as he began his run. He swiftly climbed the steps and jogged towards the two, Jing Yuan following at a much more casual stride, though he had climbed the stairs after him and reached the group shortly after.

“Jing Yuan,” the taller dragon nodded his head respectfully, the General returning it, “Could you please explain to your Retainer that I’m not Dan Feng?” the tone he had was still quite soft, but there was a slight edge of frustration to it, understandably.

“I have,” he chuckled gently, “Unfortunately, he’s still quite set on the fight he shared between you and Yingxing,”  and though he hadn’t quite caught the start of it, he knew that the boy had tried his hardest and felt rewarded in seeing his strength against the two. Although the two had most definitely held back.

“Blade,” at that, Jing Yuan hummed in question, eyeing the Vidyadhara before it dawned on him what he had said, registering the name.

“Yes… Blade,” he corrected, growing a tad tight in the shoulders from the alias. It still struck a sombre cord to need to correct himself with the names of his former comrades, Dan Feng and Yingxing… were far from his grasp.

“General!” his gaze lifted to Bailu, seeing the beaming smile and confident excitement she clearly held for this trip. He had ran into her a few times before and with each conversation, it had been about Liyue and their Geo Archon and the current day that they had been patiently waiting for.

Jing Yuan made his way over and away from the top of the stairs, Dan Heng following him towards the statue where the two young ones had darted off to. He gave the memorial a lingering stare, hoping to return it to its far more pristine appearance after all these years.

“Ready to bring your husband home~?” the Dragon Lady teased playfully before stepping aside to give them space to open the portal. The General chuckled warmly, following her along until they were at a safe distance.

“He’s not my husband just yet, Bailu. But yes, more than ready,” he smiled warmly and stopped beside her, his arms crossing loosely over his chest. He shared a last look at the two watching from the statue base before the water gradually began to appear in a circle below them, his gaze falling to the dragon to see her trained concentration aimed at her palms, the water building around them in a dome.

Only moments later and the water spilled from them, hitting the now dried grass of the location where he had been found originally within Teyvat.

A smile graced his lips, his gaze closing briefly as he inhaled the strong sea air and Liyuian food that drifted from the harbour so potently. He’d had the urge to purchase something to eat before returning, to maybe bring back some trinkets or food for the other two waiting on them. He was most definitely bringing back something for himself, he smirked.

A gasp caught his attention, his gaze swiftly snapping to Bailu before following her concerned stare as she started in a sprint towards the path. His own eyes widened, his breath catching in his throat to see the Harbour’s dock in a state of repair, all hands appearing on deck to fix whatever destruction there had been. He was as fast as the Vidyadhara, turning into a sprint towards the path. They passed the Waypoint and jogged down towards the harbour entrance, slowing near the small water pond in the centre.

“What happened here?” he asked the guards standing at the pillars of the arch as he closed in, the dragon forcing herself to stop ahead of one rather than dart into the city, and the two guards shared a look.

“There was a monster attack a few days ago. Osial’s Wife showed up. The dock was hit pretty hard, but the people of Liyue managed to send her packing,” one of the two smiled sheepishly, forcing it as it appeared that he was still very concerned. He could understand why if that were the case.

“Was anyone harmed? Any losses?” the General continued, his tension growing. Though he’d only been there a moment, his concern for the people had grown along with his worry for where Morax was at the time. Had this delayed him? Harming him would have been a grand struggle, he knew.

“A few were hurt, but everyone was evacuated deeper into the harbour and away from harm while the Millelith and the upper ranks mounted a counterattack,” so the humans had taken the forefront of the fight to return fire on whatever monster it had been. So where were the Adepti? Where had the Archon been in that fight?

“What of Rex Lapis,” he asked swiftly, seeing the two flaked briefly and share another look as the General drew closer, about ready to walk into the city and call for the being. He’d understand that calling for Xiao aided a far better response time.

“He’s safe, but at the time, there was no way he could fight after losing his power,” the other spoke up and Jing Yuan’s blood ran cold, his heart stuttering madly at the news. His gaze bore in them.

“What-?!” Bailu had beaten him to it, her instant yell catching the two off guard before she’d been about to take off into the harbour before the General could grab her. Fortunately, he’d grabbed the back of her clothing to keep her in place for a moment. They needed to gain the ‘whereabouts’ of the man.

“He’s okay! I assure you!” the guard swiftly added “Rex Lapis used up his Archon power to permanently seal Guyun Stone Forest. He made the announcement yesterday,” he frowned at that and straightened up, staring deeply into the guard's face.

“Announcement?” Jing Yuan asked, glancing between them. So then he was indeed alright enough to speak on his behalf about the Sealing and ‘loss of power’? Hopefully, that meant that he was alright, regardless of any power loss. Though that also meant that he was not a God anymore?

“He and the last Yaksha were stepping down to let the humans step up,” the other spoke to share the firm gaze that Jing Yuan was giving them. It at least confirmed that they were indeed retiring, which was a relief to know that Morax was finally giving himself the time to relax, and Xiao, it appeared. He’d need to ask about the permanent seal to understand that.

“Where is he?” the General asked firmly, feeling Bailu stop struggling upon catching the question.

“He should be around the dock. He was helping rebuild the main transportation area despite Lady Ningguang’s requests, but that was like… half an hour ago,” the guard replied a tad sheepishly, but it was something to give them a lead. The General let go of the dragon and swiftly she was running across the bridge. Hopefully, she’d stay within sight.

“Thank you,” he nodded with respect and picked up the pace after the Vidyadhara, able to keep an eye on her and keep up with his stride compared to hers. Along passing the bridge, he could really see the damage, but he could also see the amount of effort that had gone into fixing the dock itself, the sheer manpower and cooperation between these people to so sturdily bring their home back to life… It must have been devastating…

While taking in the state, they’d walked for quite a long while, checking the dock a few times, but he could not find the being anywhere, a frown having graced his features. It was only after his growing concern and the fifth check that he paused at the stairs, and for a very good reason…

“Morax!” Bailu yelled and smiled broadly, Jing Yuan’s heart hammering at the sight of the man halfway descending the stairs to the dock with Lady Ningguang, and he looked… Ravishing.

The Archon robes had made way for such a beautifully designed outfit that suited him so beautifully and gave him so much more of a powerful, regal air.

A form fitting traditional long-sleeved waist dress with cut sides up to the point above the hips, a high collared vest beneath and both with golden Geo accents and golden tails following the back and front from the waist to the ends on the outside. White slim pants that were tucked into black boots with more golden lines and a gem at the front of the boot at ankle height. What had given him additional power was the shoulder guard emblems that were adorning his arms from shoulder to bicep, the same fabric of his clothes being attached to the shoulder guards much akin to a jacket, with tails smoothly hanging from both sides of both emblems. The missing features were his tail, horns and the long ears.

He was truly… heart stopping. He felt as though he were betrothed to royalty with this man…

Jing Yuan took a few steps forward, and whatever the woman had been talking about was clearly benched as Morax swiftly began descending the stairs and had met him halfway.

Instantly, his arms were wrapping around the beautiful man and he could feel the immediately warmth of the other against him, pressing as close as he could with his face buried within Jing Yuan’s neck, and he’d returned it, placing a kiss against his neck and holding him as tight to him as possible without cutting off airways or further harming him. If he was truly injured in some way from the battle or power situation.

“Are you alright?” the General spoke against his skin, feeling the soft shudder from Morax, though he hadn’t let him go whatsoever to have the conversation.

“Better than,” the man breathed against him, his voice having softened and deepened so much. He felt the shift in grip, his head tilting just slightly to pull back and press their foreheads, the warmth meeting him once more in a gentle and affectionate lock of their eyes… his eyes. As golden as ever with the white diamond in the centre, so warm.

“You’re unharmed?” he muttered his question, gazing so firmly into the others who shared the intensity, welcoming it with how much eagerness he held in keeping the two together so flushly. He was almost short of breath, almost able to feel the mutuality of having wanted to see him.

“Yes. I hadn’t needed to intervene in the battle. Liyue is now Archonless,” Morax replied slowly, the last part of the sentence being spoken with so much relief and Jing Yuan lapped it up, glad to hear it, to feel the need to simply leave there and then with him to be sure that he would not be taken by a disaster rearing its head before their departure-.

“We heard you lost your power!” Bailu suddenly spoke up, drawing their gazes to her puffy cheeked pout as she had absolutely been concerned as well. She’d failed to hide it, though he was sure she hadn’t tried.

“Only what had been given to me as an Archon. I sealed the Stone Forest with the help of the Iudex of Fontaine,” that sounded quite familiar-, “The dragon,” ah yes! That was quite a surprise. Last he’d been told, the serpent had not but judgement for the Archons, though Morax hadn’t really elaborated as to why, though he also hadn’t pried into that subject-.

“They made it so that no Karmic Debt would seep. I don’t need to be watchful for it anymore,” the sudden appearance of the Yaksha had made him flinch, he would honestly admit. His gaze fell to the Adeptus behind them, the young being staring him down where he and Morax were still embraced.

“General Xiao,” he greeted with a nod, “Then that means you’re free as well?” he questioned with a gentle smile, having taken in his words despite the very slight stun of his presence.

“I am,” the other replied a tad curtly, “I’m going with Rex Lapis,” that had not been a simple statement, rather it had been a declaration, a matter of fact tone that gave neither room to argue. Not that he would, he was quite elated by the news!

“I understand,” his smile grew and reluctantly, he pried himself from Morax to face the smaller man, giving him a respectful bow.
“We welcome you,”

“Thank you,” the Yaksha replied, returning the bow before the two straightened up. There was a momentary stare where the shorter being almost appeared to warn him, Jing Yuan giving him a smirk as he knew the look of a protective guardian quite well. He’d take it into account, but he would very much do his best to avoid any negative situations with his dragon.

“Please take them,” a familiar voice spoke up with a sigh, “If my hair weren’t white, it’d be turning grey with the amount of help they’re forcing upon us,” the woman spoke with a feigned tire to her tone, drawing a playful smile from the General.

“And I thought it was simply age that had whitened your hair,” he brutally teased, earning himself a sharp stare from the woman, but with an even sharper smirk from her. Clearly, she recalled that he was fond of drawing reactions from her with her own keen tongue.

“And your excuse~?” and thus, she proved his point. He was very fond of her verbal retaliations to his taunts and teases.

“Naturally white, my lady~,” he countered just as smoothly and lifted his hands to his partner's waist, drawing Morax back in against him. No, he was not using the man as a shield.
“We’ll gladly abduct them,” he added swiftly before the woman could counter his honest claim, catching the silent ‘Oh sure’ in her gaze, the stare being followed by a softer one as she eased from his statement.

“Rex Lapis, Xiao,” she bowed so deeply and it didn’t take much for Jing Yan to see that everyone that had heard and seen the encounter followed her respect, bowing row after row after row to the former Archon and the last Yaksha. The pure and utter adoration could be felt from the scene and it showed the sheer love that the people had for the two.

“Lady Ningguang, Liyue,” the former Archon spoke softly, returning the bow with fluid smoothness to his frame, the action being without hesitance.

It was brief but told so much of his own love and respect. The moment had lingered before Morax stood, giving the woman a soft respectful nod before he patted the General’s arm and drew him, Xiao and Bailu towards the bridge, leading them to the spot once more. The walk was measured and slow, the population stepping aside and bowing as the group strode along…

Jing Yuan could see the shake in Morax’s shoulder, whatever he felt was reaching his shell… He reached forward, brushing his fingers against his to show that he was there, but he hadn’t expected him to grasp his hand while continuing to look forward, to maintain his power and regality. He loved him.

It was when they passed the bridge and strode past the now bowing guards that he still held that same stance, even keeping it on the climb to leave the harbour entirely. The whole stretch, neither Morax nor Xiao looked back, striding strongly away with the other two behind.

Moments past, time building, and eventually, they were far from the harbour, walking along the grassy field to where Jing Yuan had been found and to where they’d just arrived.

It was about then that the General slowed, feeling the others' almost autopilot stride. He carefully pulled back, watching as he appeared to zone back in as he was drawn back to the General and landed chest to chest with him, Jing Yuan’s hand holding holding to Morax’s own and to his waist, staring eye to eye with an unreadable question to his gaze before he relaxed, dropping his head to the General’s shoulder.

“Breathe,” he instructed softly, feeling him do just that against his neck, followed by another and then another. And after a moment, he lifted his head, appearing far more open with his emotions. He’d figured that it’d have hit him quite hard, understandably, with how long he’d been an Archon of this progressive nation.

He felt a gentle warmth against his face, a hand cradling his jaw and cheek while their foreheads were once again pressed. He was just barely aware of the gradual growth of water around them, slowly growing higher and higher until they were within the hydro dome. Throughout the time, the beings' golden gaze never left him, only softly staring until a familiar breeze of the Xianzhou Luofu Scalegorge reached them.

Though that hadn’t seemed to faze the man at all as he continued. That was until he heard the fast footfalls of his Retainer and the slower ones of his ‘friend’. 

—--

Reluctantly, they broke their lock, Morax glancing to the side and immediately catching sight of draconic appearance, lingering before his gaze fell to the young boy that had begun beaming his way. The Retainer, he’d wager.

“The General’s told me a lot about you, sir!” the boy bowed, to his surprise, “I’m Yanqing, it’s a pleasure to meet you!” he then straightened up, his movements being swift yet trained. Physically, he was very smooth with his animated motion. He smiled.

“The pleasure is mine. I’ve been quite eager to meet you both,” he chuckled softly, aware of the guard his own General had of him while he stood safely behind, but was well within range to get between him and whoever he saw as a threat… Which was unneeded, personally, but he understood the care.

Fortunately, it appeared that the young boy had caught sight of said General and slipped by him to get a closer look, to interact. Good, he was hopeful that it might sprout a friendship. It would have been a decent start for his Yaksha.

His gaze returned to the other, the Vidyadhara, from what he could see of his appearance. The horns, the ears, though there was no tail, he recalled Jing Yuan having mentioned it. Their eyes seemed to have the conversation, sharing a stare for a long moment before Morax decidedly extended his features, his ears elongating, his tail easing out from beneath the back-drape of his entire and a glow lifted from his skull, the shape taking on an antler appearance before all shine disappeared, leaving him with the very Vidyadhara features, and it seemed to have taken him by surprise.

“He said that you were mistaken for one of us, I can see why,” the other man eyed him, taking in the grown features and appearing to understand that he could remove them at will. And from what Jing Yuan had said, so could Dan Heng.

“As can I,” he chuckled softly and extended a hand, “It’s a pleasure, Dan Heng,” at that, the man eyed him and then his hand, seeming to think before extending his own and politely shaking.

“Lord Morax,” he’d greeted in return, giving a smile of his own.

Notes:

I'm dying for this pairing. They're such a sweet ship and there needs to be more for them!!!

This one is pretty interesting to me because Zhongli and Xiao are finally there, but what I'm planning to do is use the next chapter as a split between the two so that you all get a hefty idea of what they're thinking and what position they take up for endgame.

And yes, there are only two chapters left, including the Epilogue. ^^

Chapter 27

Notes:

Okay, so updated a few things and there'll be 30 chapters, not 28. I had a lil' extra thing in mind that'd be sweet.

With the General’s descriptions of his Flagship to the Yaksha’s Lord, Xiao had a confident assumption of the few places that they were taken on what the man would consider a tour, and what the Adeptus would consider a crash-course test of memory. The layout was to Jing Yuan’s recollection down to the smallest detail and with his Retainer speaking up with excitement, babbling trivia and naming either stores of spots that he had visited here and there. 

And though Rex hadn’t seemed too bothered when told that there were a few places that they weren’t to venture, Xiao’s interest had flickered just slightly, catching himself questioning ‘why’ they were barred from the locations.

Stargazer Navalia, an enormous storage space. Artisanship Commission, an area that was still being cleared of something known as the Mara-Struck. The Alchemy Commission, a location with untrustworthy people and more Mara-Struck. And Fyxestroll Garden, an almost paranormal based area where no normal individual should enter, unless escorted. Though he’d caught the General’s jest that Xiao would likely terrify the beings there with his own aura after the Karmic Debt that allied him was explained after the Retainer’s constant questioning about the Seal and Xiao’s recent freedom to join them on the Xianzhou Luofu.

Speaking of… 

Xiao’s gaze drifted to the mortal beside him, walking alone with him through what he was told was Aurum Alley. The boy was akin to an active puppy with how intensely he stared with excitement and with the pace of his tone being swift as he described the area and the nearby stores. He’d been babbling the entire time while the Yaksha had been perfectly silent and listened, taking in the details and random trivia to ensure that he didn’t miss any potentially important information. Though most of it was the Retainers preferences in food stalls and stall owners.

The Yaksha had held off voicing that he didn’t need food, mostly due to the overly eager reaction to him being there. Not that he cared whether he’d disappoint, it was… odd… to see this much excitement to his presence. And the boy didn’t seem affected by his being at all, which was a relief. It meant that he could easily interact without harming others by simply ‘being there’.

“Where would you like to see next?” the far younger being beamed as he stopped short of another path that led out of the area, stopping Xiao’s train of thought and again, he could see that fond-puppy air around him, his large eyed caramel gaze landing on him with an eager anticipation.

As far as he could gather, he understood the workings of the few areas they’d been allowed to venture and had an idea of how the off-limits areas functioned. But one that seemed explorable, with a guide, had been at the forefront of his mind for a short time.

“Your General mentioned needing an escort to travel through Fyxestroll Garden, correct?” he asked simply and emotionlessly, watching as the boy’s face scrunched at the name, appearing far more reserved.

“Uh-, yeah. Yeah, you’d need an escort… You ‘really’ wanna go there?” the discomfort was towards the location then, to Xiao’s understanding. He was put off by the area, though he wasn’t too sure why. Had he some negative experience there?

“It unnerves you?” the Yaksha questioned, still lacking expression to his tone. Yanqing seemed a tad more tense, his gaze drifting for a moment. From what he could tell, it was a mild fear reaction, a disdain for whatever was there or for whatever experience he’d gained while there. If he’d ever been there.

“It’s… sorta spooky,” the boy replied, and Xiao gave him a flat stare, making it very obvious what he thought of it being ‘spooky’. Comically, the Retainer huffed, returning the look tenfold.
“... I don’t like ghosts, okay…?” he’d finally admitted and Xiao all but stared, the sound of a soft wind passing behind him to add to the deadpanned reaction.

“ Ghosts aren’t real. Spirits are,” the Yaksha supplied quietly and simply stared at him, the boy gawking with raised brows. Xiao could already feel the aghast air about the boy, the dubious bewilderment.

“Yeah, there’s totally a difference,” he countered with pure sarcasm and a terrible impression with his tone… He was mildly amusing, though gave him far too many recollections of that drunken Archon sprite, Barbatos.

Xiao felt the urge to roll his eyes, “Being a General’s Retainer, I assume you’re qualified to be an Escort,” he spoke up instead of stating his own reasoning for the Spirit comment. To add to his amusement, he saw the widening of his eyes as they shot towards him, the clear thought process that he’d gone through to come to a conclusion for the question.

“... Yes,” his tone had lifted slightly in pitch, “... Do we have to go?” there was a very brief whine to his tone with the following question, a clear indication that he’d rather avoid the duty altogether in taking him ‘there’. Not that it was to escort him, but the location specifically…

“No,” he replied honestly, seeing a slight relief, “Though regardless of whether you join me, I’m likely to go either way,” and then it swiftly disappeared with the additional sentence, his posture slouching visibly before his exasperated stare returned to the Yaksha.

“... You know that’ll get me in trouble,” the Retainer stated knowingly, well aware of Xiao’s intent to drive him to take the older being to Fyxestroll Garden.
“... Fine! Okay! I’ll take you there! Just don’t tell General Jing Yuan OR Lord Morax!” the boy gave in, his compromise being emphasised with a pointed finger towards Xiao. Internally, the Yaksha was amused, if only a little, by the boy's antics and oddity. He was set on avoiding the disappointment from the elders it seemed. Regardless that Xiao was one in his own right as well, which was likely why he gave in so easily.

“Understood,” he replied a tad casually with a neutral tone. He watched as the younger being stared for a rather long moment before sighing, rubbing the back of his neck before taking a step away, turning towards another exit within the Alley. The Yaksha followed, trusting that the boy wouldn’t lead him away from the requested location. He was well aware that he could and from what he’d learnt about the Retainer, he would have.

“Actually, I’ve been wondering…” Yanqing spoke up, drawing his attention, “Why d’you call him Rex? Or Rex Lapis?” Xiao quirked a brow. Understandably, there was a curiosity about the separate names the oldest being had, but he hadn’t completely expected any to ask about it just then. Then again, he’d gathered that he liked asking questions.

“Morax is his original name as the God of Contracts. Rex Lapis is a name of Great respect used by his vast number of followers and worshippers. I call him Rex and or Rex Lapis as I’m one of his most devoted,” and even with ‘only’ calling him Rex he felt as though he wasn’t giving him his full respect in those moments. It felt minutely odd and tended to use the full name.

“So… why does the General call him Morax? Why have you not corrected me when I called him that?” … he really liked questions. He blinked silently at the boy for a lingering moment as they strode along the path, noting the slight change in the air as they made their way along a ‘dock’ looking strip towards a… boat? Starskiff.

“Neither of you are followers. He allows you the honour. General Jing Yuan, due to their intimate relationship and you, due to your connection with your General… He’s given me permission to use his personal name,” he’d added the last part as an afterthought spoken aloud, and though he’d been given the honour as well, it had never sat right with him to use it. Lord Morax was a struggle to say at best of times.

“But you won’t use it because you respect him that much,” the Retainer concluded correctly, hitting the nail squarely on the head with his reply.

“Indeed,” Xiao confirmed, pausing at the end of the dock to watch the boy step over into the back seat of the Starskiff, holding out a hand to him once he was secure. The Yaksha simply ported, disappearing and reappearing in a rush of black wind beside him, already seated.

He watched as the Retainer sat with a smile, coordinates being entered in a small device between them before it began moving.

“What’s the God of Contracts?” Yanqing asked once they were comfortably travelling, his curiosity still at its peak it seemed. Not that he’d blame him. They could have been considered ‘Descenders’ in their world.

He couldn’t recall mention of it to Jing Yuan from his Lord, but then there hadn’t been too much of a chance for a full biographical explanation of the former Archon’s life, names, titles or anything. What little time they shared had simply been a comfort of growing attachments, a space with no needless historical recounting besides the basics.

“While being the Lord of Geo, he was originally, and still is, the God of Contracts. He holds a strong sense of fairness that led to his position as a formidable force that favours contract keeping. Contracts are the epitome of ‘fair’ as it upholds a joint agreement between individuals. Betrayal of that fairness should have consequences, and he is the very figure that upholds that power,” he explained as best he could, his gaze drifting to the boy to see the utter awe in his wide eyes.

“So… if you break a contract with him?” the predictable question followed, the glint of interest clear in him. He was afraid that answering all of this would prompt him to ask the older Adeptus far more unanswered questions directly with how eager he appeared. Though, to answer his question, a well known phrase came to mind…

“Ones who break their contracts shall suffer the Wrath of the Rock,” he recited perfectly, his gaze lifting to the very large area ahead of them, closing the distance on a far gloomier atmospheric landscape. Dark, eerie, a mass of mist and low tones that… he found oddly interesting. Yanqing had used the word ‘spooky’. He could understand his unnerved reaction, being a simple mortal and all.

“He sounds… intimidating… if you get on his bad side,” the unnerved reaction there was understandable as well.

“I assure you, he is,”  Xiao replied simply, side eyeing the boy before returning his gaze to the area they were closing in on, the dock drawing closer and closer with the Starskiff slowing. After only a moment, it was coming to a stop, the Yaksha disappearing and reappearing on the dock before it’s total halt. Fortunately, he hadn’t felt any differences in his person or abilities with the realm hopping, nor had he felt any flare of his Karmic Debt despite it being there. 

Though he knew it would settle over time… Karma was a part of his being at that point, a permanent stamp on his Core, but at least he was unlikely to lose himself to it as he wouldn’t need to collect it anymore.

“This-,” the Retainer started, grunting softly as he’d climbed out of the ship, “-Is Fyxestroll Garden,” he sighed, Xiao tilting his head to eye him and then the surroundings. The mist did well to cover the area, adding to the paranormalic atmosphere, as the boy as earlier mentioned.

“Very spooky,” the Yaksha deadpanned, using the Retainers word from before. Without allowing the boy the chance to return them to the Starskiff, he began walking along the straight path to the stairs. He was very aware of the stutter from behind along with the rush of footsteps to catch up.

“Are you sure you wanna look around? Why’re you even interested in this place?!” there was a quake to the boys voice as they climbed the steps, his gaze instantly directed to the glowing squares, and though there were strangely attired guards along the exits of the square, none appeared to pay them any mind the moment they saw the General’s Retainer. A good choice in having ‘him’ as his escort.

“The spiritual aspect,” he replied simply as he turned away and headed towards the right where a path parted the trees. The Yaksha meandered through with the Retainer close behind, close enough that he could feel his hand brushing his back at times as if wanting to grab him out of fear.

“Oh sure, ‘cause you seem very spiritual,” the boy’s tone suggested a sarcastic eye roll was motioned his way at the frank counter, to which he rolled his own. Xiao strode deeper, finding a path crossing ahead of him, the left being a dead-end, and so he turned right, meandering down the walkway with the boy still easily within reach of him.

Further ahead was an opening to the mountains, it appeared, and the Yaksha continued on, his intrigue leading him. The atmosphere was… settling, the eerie air resonating with him, in a sense. He could feel the distinct presence surrounding him, multiple souls cast across the area, a few stronger than others. One stood out on the other side of the wall the were walking along. It was just as he’d turned the corner to the opening that he saw the pale green, translucent figure-.

“Wha-!” Xiao froze as his back was grabbed, an arm suddenly holding against his chest with the boy tucked close behind him… the moment he saw the same figure Xiao had seen…

The Yaksha paused his stride the moment he was held and turned his head to aim a flat stare at the boy that had his face buried in his upper back and back of his neck. With the only two inch height difference, it was still an awkward position. Begrudgingly, the Retainer held a 5’4 to Xiao’s 5’2.

He sighed softly, eyeing him and then the spirit. The almost transparent figure hadn’t even seemed to notice them, maybe in a limbo-like state and was unable to see past whatever veil it was behind.

Director Hu would have found this location immensely interesting… As for Yanqing…

“You scare far too easily,” the Yaksha spoke flatly, still eyeing the boy from over his shoulder. Granted, Xiao knew nothing of the spirits, but he sensed no initial malicious intent from any of the presences he had passed by thus far, nor in the immediate area.

“Can we go,” the Retainer whined behind him, his voice muffled against his back. Although it was ridiculous to the Yaksha that he was scared of such a being, it’d take time to remind himself that while he was a General’s Retainer, he was still a child…

“... Sentient Spirit’s won't come near with me here. My being is far too intimidating, spiritually,” he feigned to reassure, eyeing him from over his shoulder to see him peek with wide pupils and an unnerved expression. Regardless that these appeared so docile, he could still feel something in the air, but that, he would keep to himself for the time being.

“You’re sure?” he whined some. Xiao internally deadpanned at the boy, thinking that maybe it’d be best to not linger, and then maybe train him to steel himself against spiritual beings… 

It appeared he knew how he’d be spending his time while settling into this space floating Flagship… At least he wouldn’t be bored, it seemed.

Notes:

Sorry for the wait, I decided to alter a few things. Life sorta got in the way too and I have a list of art commissions to get through. Please forgive me!! T^T

ALSO!! As you'll see, this story has been added to it's own series!!! I have plans for some different things related to this story, like Morax meeting Blade and Xiao hanging out in Fyxestroll Garden and such, just some fun short things to play with that I couldn't add to this story!! ^^

Give it a follow!! General's Archon Series

Chapter 28

Notes:

As a "sorry" for making you guys wait, here's another chapter directly after the previous one!!

While he had given Xiao the complete freedom to leave and explore with the Retainer, Morax himself hadn’t travelled all that far with Jing Yuan, Bailu and Dan Heng at his side. Upon reaching a populated area within the Alchemy Commission, Bailu had actually been called away by a handful of similarly dressed mortals. And yes, he’d taken note of the stares he’d received from them, a few having lingered far too long for his liking. Though he was reassured by Dan Heng that it was the Vidyadhara appearance and that he himself was there.

He did recall the talk of conflicted feelings regarding the old and new High Elder.

And throughout the walk, he’d continued to gain attention, along with Dan Heng and Jing Yuan. It had appeared that the three together made quite a stir among the lively gossips as the General Himself was seen outside of his office and the reincarnation of the former High Elder were travelling with an unknown being with striking Vidyadhara features. He’d been warned that he’d gather attention and he’d been prepared for it, but the sheer number of eyes really felt as though he was more of an exotic creature than anything else. Especially upon entering the Exalting Sanctum.

As beautiful as it was, as bountiful a sight to be awestruck. The atmosphere alone lessened any weight on his shoulders. The cool warmth that came with the low lighting of the seemingly nightful sky and the low chatter of the occupants as they relaxed, lounged, and enjoyed the same air that he was exposed to. It was just… relaxing. The area felt as though it was made to wash away stress, and with his anxiety of having left Liyue, his Adepti, his home, his… He was still feeling the deep, gnawing ache of the scene he’d left with, his own Nation bowing to him with their love and respect, his goodbye.

It was nice to have felt some of the apprehension ease with the warmth of the Sanctum and the two at his side. Admittedly, he could have called Xiao and eased his feeling significantly more, but he did not want to take anymore of his time spent exploring their new surroundings.

Speaking of their surroundings…

“There are numerous food stalls and vending machines in this area, but overall, you’d likely come here for swift emergency response if not for the relaxing and quiet places to sit and eat or read,” Jing Yuan continued with his descriptions and Morax listened intently, finding the information appreciatively explanatory and finding the latter half of the sentence to be compelling.

“And with his office only being a Starskiff away, waiting for him here wouldn’t be boring,” the Vidyadhara mentioned with a noticeable change to his tone, as if he’d had the experience. Or a past incineration?

“I see you recall those times,” Jing Yuan glanced over his shoulder as they strode along the large flower glass floor, the General having confirmed the former Archon’s theory there and then. Dan Heng did appear a tad tense from the statement.

“Some of them. But Dan Feng had Yingxing with him,” that name again. It seemed that he still shared memories with his prior self and with the man they had a mutual friendship with. If he remembered right, he’d taken on the name Blade.

“The tranquillity of the Exalting Sanctum was always disrupted when those two were waiting for something,” the General chuckled warmly, drawing a soft smile to Morax’s features, his gaze following him. The two had their times then, the humorous breaks in between the battles and more fast paced times. The sentence itself gave him some amusing memories.

“I see you’ve had your own high ranking mischief makers,” Morax glanced between them, hoping to prompt the conversation. He could very easily discern his whereabouts while having a stimulating conversation. Not that the tour wasn’t stimulating.

“Oh absolutely. The two would cause quite the ruckus,” the man chuckled, his steps slowing until he was walking at the other side. With him being close once more, Morax lifted a hand and reached between the taller mans’ waist and arm, catching his elbow lightly as they walked towards the stairs.
“If I recall your words correctly, your Yaksha were your mischief makers. Bosacius and Indarias primarily?” the man asked with clear amusement. He was correct. 

“Yes, the former was a prankster of sort and Indarias never failed to encourage his antics,” Morax smiled warmly, as he had to deal with the former attempting to ‘play’ with him on many occasions and it had brightened his days, rarely ever being unwelcomed.

“I assume you were a target of their pranks at times?” Dan Heng questioned, drawing a soft hum from the Adeptus as his mind flickered through a few amusing attempts that either landed or backfired as he’d reacted in kind, surprising his Yaksha with his own payback.

“Only Bosacius. The rest tried desperately to stop him as they felt I would react badly during that era,” he chuckled sheepishly, lightly brushing the side of his neck with his free hand.

“Did you?” the Vidyadhara asked after a moment, drawing the Adeptus’ gaze. It took a very brief moment to register what he’d referred to in question.

“No,” he shook his head, still smiling, “In fact, I found the humour and pleasure of being included. It wasn’t often that I’d have been able to ‘play a game’ with others or be considered someone to play a game with due to the station I upheld,” it was then that he saw the very subtle change in the young being air, a soft pinch of his brows and a gentle flick of his gaze.

He appeared… conflicted, but not entirely? Morax would hazard an assumption to say that he seemed to be thinking, something he’d said in regards to his own feelings giving him food for thought and driving him deeper. Given his position, it wouldn’t be too farfetched to think that maybe he’d felt a familiarity. He hadn’t seemed sad or personally responsive, but responsive enough that he may have recalled the feelings…

“Your memories, is there a similarity you see?” Morax asked, and was not disappointed. Dan Heng swiftly lifted his gaze, his eyes slightly wider and it gave him the tell-tale reactions, that yes, he’d been correct with his thoughts.

“You’re incredibly perceptive,” the man spoke softly, “Yes. I do recall Dan Feng seeming to have a similar issue when going about his duties. Others would find him a tad intimidating or assume that he wasn’t the type to enjoy a game,” he’d explained slowly as they turned the corner at the top of the stairs.

“Sadly, Dan Feng’s ‘work first’ preferences gave him a baseless reputation. Most one-sidedly decided that it wouldn’t be worth asking as it was assumed that he’d decline offers to spend time with others and or take breaks,” Jing Yuan supplied additionally to Dan Heng’s explanation-.

“You’ve had enough breaks!” Morax’s attention, along with the other two, was swiftly drawn away towards the curt hiss from ahead of them. His golden gaze fell upon a young girl dressed in white and pinks with a dash of back scarcely located, her hair being the pinkest and quite long.

“Aaaah, Master Diviner~. A pleasure, as always,” Jing Yuan greeted smoothly, Morax feeling the man draw him that little bit closer as if to shield him. Either that, or he was concerned she’d interact with him…?

“Doubtful,” she’d grumped in return and crossed her arms over her chest, “You missed our meeting,” the young girl had added haughtily as the three drew closer with the General leading. The Adeptus hadn’t missed the scrutinising gaze she’d given the two additional companions.

“I apologise. I was understandably busy,” the General continued, again Morax feeling him almost cradle his hand that had been hooked over his elbow between his arm and side. Did Jing Yuan find her to be difficult company?

“Loafing around with the Vidyadhara isn’t ‘Busy’,” she sighed dramatically before allowing her gaze to drift to the other two, swiftly stopping on Morax with an obvious curiosity. Though whether it was good or not, he wasn’t quite sure.
“And if I recall, he and the Dragon lady were the only ones in our current time. Where did you find this one,” she nodded towards the Adeptus.

At that, Jing Yuan sighed heavily, “... You recall my explanation of having travelled to another land due to Bailu’s abilities,” clearly, it’d been voiced often, but she must have not believed him if this was his reaction towards her.

“Yes. I recall laughing at your babbling as it’s impossible. The Dragon Lady’s powers are limited to healing due to Dan Feng’s idiotic actions that led to his power being split in the first place,” whether the others had heard it, Morax had caught the soft sound of disdain from the Vidyadhara beside him, as well as felt the brief tension growing in the air around the boy…

“Have you questioned her yourself, Master Diviner?” Morax asked out of curiosity, far from wanting to argue or cause a scene, but he was genuinely curious of whether her judgement was solely based on Jing Yuan’s recollection alone. If so, then it’d have been worth adding to it himself.

“Your name,” was all she’d replied with, staring perceptively, analytically… She reminded him, mildly, of Xiao with her stare. The Adeptus reluctantly slipped his arm from the Generals and lowered his head in respect, well aware that she had to be of high rank to speak with Jing Yuan so informally.

“Morax,” he greeted, and then straightened up, still targeted with her firm, analytical stare, only affirming his opinions that she and Xiao shared an expression and intimidating aura.

“Continue,” she muttered rather curtly, her gaze never leaving the far older being as he returned a softer gaze while adorning a polite air.

“It was Miss Bailu who brought me here, using her abilities. I’m from the nation of Liyue, within the land of Teyvat,” Morax explained simply, watching her crease her brow in thought and continued to stare, appearing to attempt to find some sign of falsities with how deeply she scrutinised him.

“A Vidyadhara?” she’d asked, a predictable question, considering…

“An Adeptus. We simply share strikingly similar features, as we’ve discussed,” Morax chuckled softly, briefly sharing an amused glance with the only Vidyadhara there. Even Dan Heng appeared to find humour in the situation, regardless how small it was.

There had been a short conversation on passing him off as one if there was no risk of his presence being brought up to the Vidyadhara High Elders of the other Xianzhou Flagships. Which had been a surprising conversation.

“I can also vouch for this, as can Yanqing and Bailu,” Dan Heng spoke up, appearing far calmer with Morax having peacefully chipped into the talk between her and the General.

She appeared to simply watch them for the longest time, drawing the silence along far longer than was comfortable for even the Adeptus, though he continued to return his own stare. After a few moments passed by, there was a heavy sigh from the small girl, exasperation clear in her features.

“Fine. I’ll ask her myself for the details, after we have our meeting!” she swiftly jabbed a finger in the General’s direction and the Adeptus swore that he saw the man deflate so deeply from her non-negotiable tone.

“Can we not postpone until tomorrow?” Jing Yuan sighed, his arms crossing loosely over his chest, and from her expression alone, regardless that she said nothing, he appeared to give in with a simple breath through his nose.
“... Dan Heng, please accompany Morax. I’ll send a message once I’m able to,” the man briefly rubbed his face and then turned to the Adeptus, reaching up to his face.

He was lightly taken by the unexpected hands brushing the sides of his neck and jaw, Morax’s gaze softening on the man before his lips were pecked, stealing his breath with the simple intimate action.

“To satisfy me until I find you,” the man smirked broadly, stealing another, lingering for a time before reluctantly letting go. Though he’d released him, Jing Yuan had stayed put, gazing, but was swiftly dragged away around the corner by the small girl. Morax swallowed, willing his beating core to slow and for air to return to his lungs.

Again, the man never ceased to surprise him with his intimate antics. He needed to get used to it, it’d been so long since he’s felt this level of love physically. Archon help him when it’d come to intimacy while sharing a bed…

At that, warmth briefly reached his face, a soft frown drawing at his brow due to his unhelpful imagination. He forced himself to stop, swiftly switching his focus to the Vidyadhara to stop his thought process from delving any deeper on his lack of entertainment within the last few thousand years.

“It appears that our General has been abducted,” Dan Heng muttered flatly with a soft sigh, his arms crossing loosely over his chest. He appeared as disheartened as Morax over the matter.
“Out of curiosity, are you hungry? And do you have a cellphone?” he then asked, the Adeptus humming softly. Although feasting wasn’t necessary, he did eat, if only to enjoy the taste much akin to how he did in Liyue, but it wouldn’t be his mora to spend.

“I unfortunately do not have Mora with me, nor do I have that small conversational box,” and he was still very much lost on how they even worked to begin with. Jing Yuan had attempted to show him back in Liyue, but with no… uh… service and anything to link it to, it hadn’t worked as intended.

“Assuming Mora is your currency, it’s fine, I can pay for both. We call it Credits,” the Vidyadhara mentioned as if they wouldn’t cost him much at all, and he quite appreciated the correction.
“Do you like fruit?” he continued and started walking once again, heading towards the stairs they’d previously ascended.

“I do, yes,” Morax replied and followed, descending the stairs with him and crossing the glass flower in the centre of the area again. The young man appeared to know exactly where he was headed and the Adeptus could only trail behind. It was only upon seeing the Food stall further along that he concluded that ‘that’ was where Dan Heng wanted to purchase whatever fruit based meal he’d had in mind.

The two meandered ahead, stopping short of the person that had turned to leave with their meals in hand. The Stall owner, almost predictably, turned pale upon seeing the two, both adorning their very Vidyadhara appearances.

“Sirs! Good afternoon! How can I- ehem-, help you?” he smiled sheepishly with his stammering, his focus fixed on both Dan Heng and Morax, glancing between them awkwardly and clearly intimidated by their presence. As were the others in the area. He could very easily feel the eyes and hear the whispering, though not what was said.

“Two batches of Berrypheasant Skewers, please,” Dan Heng requested, and not a second later, the man had spoken a few stumbling words and was already reaching for the containers to set them in and reaching into the warm heating box device behind him, checking them over, it appeared, before he’d set a skewer on the container, two large red spheres coated in a smooth honey looking sauce coating it entirely. He’d gotten another, the second of the batch and placed them on the edge closest to the two, waving off Dan Heng’s attempt at handing him Mor- Credits.

“No no, on the house, please,” the man waved him off repeatedly. With a soft sigh, Dan Heng thanked the man and gave him a slight bow with his head, Morax following suit and continuing after the Vidyadhara as he turned to leave, wandering down the path to what appeared to be a Starskiff port. It was quite sized, a few Starskiff’s dotted about and it appeared that Dan Heng was headed for the slightly larger one with a tether that would release upon being paid for.

He waited and watched, being handed the containers of skewers before the young man inserted his funding and the tether did in fact release.

“After you,” the boy gestured to the stagnant ship sitting in place. Morax stepped closer and into the ship with Dan Heng joining him a moment later, the two sitting. Fortunately, there was more than enough room for Morax to sit with his tail between himself and the inner wall of the Starskiff without trapping it.
“We can eat on the way, and if you’d like I can buy us something else to eat or drink while continuing some of the tour as we wait for the General,” he’d mentioned, tapping the screen ahead of them that proceeded to close the door and begin their travelling.

“Central Starskiff Haven,” Morax read from the screen as he’d begun to open one of the containers and handed it to the Vidyadhara before opening his own. The scent alone was tantalising, potent with whatever it was coated in. He’d never smelt it before, but it was very appealing to his senses.

“It’s more of a central shopping and trades area than anything else,” the other informed before taking a bite of his skewer, eyeing the name and simply relaxing in his seat.

“Ah yes, Jing Yuan told me about this location. I assume that’s where you’re taking us to purchase a… cell phone?” Morax asked, though the word of the device was odd to say aloud as one word. And that seemed to amuse Dan Heng as there was a soft chuff leaving him the moment he’d said it so awkwardly.

“It is. But if possible, I’d like to buy one for you and Xiao. I’m assuming he tends to disappear a lot from the experience so far, so it’d be good that he has one as well,” Morax raised his brows at that, genuinely appreciating the considerate thought alone. Though calling him by name would be just as simple… would that work, was the question, considering they were on a flagship and not solid Earth.

“I’m truly grateful for the consideration,” the Adeptus smiled softly and lifted the skewer to his mouth, finally taking a bite. The scent didn’t do it justice. The burst of flavour, the soft crunch of the solid coating before the chewy fruit centre. He had no idea what it was, but the taste was amazing.

Notes:

This one's really cool. We have the sweet pairing of Jing Yuan and Morax and then some Vidyadhara looking guys hanging out!!

You can probably guess where the next chapter's gonna go from the last bunch of paragraphs regarding the phones. I'm HOPEFUL that the 29th chapter will have the perfectly soft ending to the "current time" plot, as the 30th Chapter will be the "skip to the future" epilogue to this multiple chapter story. Be prepped, guys. Only two chapters left.

Chapter 29

And… as grateful for the consideration and the thoughtfulness to not only purchase the conversational boxes for both himself and Xiao… he knew absolutely nothing of how to use the technical device.

A while ago, Dan Heng had directed him to a store the moment they’d landed and the name of the small building was The Jeweller’s Pagoda, and as delightful as it appeared with the its simple attractions within that were meant to draw attention, his was taken by the options for cases for the devices that the Vidyadhara purchased quite easily. One could even customise the boxes, which was what his mind was solely focused on. He’d had some entertainment and was swift, but with the option to do the same for his own General, he’d struggled until he thought back to the Yaksha’s Lantern Rite with his astonishingly beautifully crafted lantern of a stag, Skybracer, honouring the Anemo Yaksha.

He’d found one that was very… reminiscent of it, and so that was chosen. Predictably, when Dan Heng had attempted to hand credits to the worker, it was denied for the most part, but the young man eventually won and was able to conclude the transaction, the two leaving quite swiftly before she could change her mind… And then came the struggle…

Morax tilted his head with a slight frown, leaning back against the backrest of the bench he and the Vidyadhara had found to be the best spot for the General to find them. Starskiff Jetty, a location where Jing Yuan would see them upon disembarking a Starskiff.

“Why are there multiple ways to access the device? Am I supposed to use all of them? If so, why am I able to choose only one if preferable and with an option to choose none?” Morax questioned trivially as he switched the screen on again and re-entered the pattern for the umpteenth time to be sure that he would, indeed, not forget it.

“It’s simply an option for preference,” the younger being chuffed softly, clearly amused by Morax’s perplexed interest.
“One could be very lax in keeping their device safe by choosing none at all and can simply access it by turning it on. Or you can be overly cautious and choose all the options to lock it from others. I felt that the pattern or fingerprint option would be easier for you considering your experience with these,” he gently tapped the screen on his own device.

“Speaking of experience… Jing Yuan explained that you write with them? Much like paper and ink?” once more, his head tilted with intrigue and confusion as he lifted the device, turning it over in his hand. He really couldn’t understand how one could effectively write and send a letter.

“... In… a way, yes? Not like how you explained it. You recall that I entered my own ID within your phone?” Morax nodded at this, having been very lost, “Well, with my profile within your phone, you can send a message because our devices have that link to each other. It’s like… having each other address to send letters, but it’s all through this device. You get instant communication without cost of time, paper or credits,” 

Morax hummed, “That sounds quite…” he couldn’t quite find the words, but he’d always enjoyed writing and reading and the books he’d been exposed to, they were handwritten from start to finish, regardless of nation and age. Writing was an art and to imagine that he could write a sentence by tapping these odd symbols on this… screen?

“Would you like to try it?” Dan Heng’s question drew his attention, “I assure you, it gets easier. I can understand that it may be jarring,” he reassured. Though Morax had his opinion of it, he had only been exposed to it for mere moments and he was, admittedly, a tad interested in how it was possible.

“Yes, I’d like to,” he nodded after a moment, and assuming he needed the boy's profile, he recalled the icon that Dan Heng had tapped and actually found himself, correctly, in the screen that was needed and tilted the device towards the other being.

“This,” he’d tapped the screen where a small envelope image was sat on the screen and it’d opened up to another with no words, only a smaller box with odd lettering that appeared vaguely familiar to their own lettering in Teyvat.
He hummed, slowly analysing the symbols and they really did appear familiar, it also gave him the impression that he’d need to relearn a language if there was some semblance of a barrier regardless of him being able to understand the language they spoke. Their lettering was slightly different if this were the case.

Despite this, he lifted a finger and singularly tapped symbol after symbol that could aid him in spelling what he wished to say to Dan Heng. And while the other was simply waiting patiently, Morax had tapped away a whole sentence before eyeing the lonely arrow to the right of the text cube. And then pressed it, assuming that it was some form of send button?

He was correct. Only a moment later, Dan Heng’s device had growled softly against his leg with its vibration and had even made an odd bubbly chirping sound. He watched as the other lifted his device, taking the time to read before covering his mouth with a hand to hold any laughter back.

(“It appears that I’ve grossly underestimated the differences between our worlds and may require far more aid than communicating through a box,”)

He watched as the other began to reply, his gaze following the far more ‘used to it’ screen-tapping with both thumbs rather than Morax’s one-finger tapping. He was far more adept to it and only seconds later, his own device had made the same sound and motion of that growl and chirping.
Morax lifted it, seeing that there was a message below his own but on the left of the screen rather than the right.

(“I can send you revision material if you’re interested,”) And understandably, it took a moment for him to read it, struggling fractionally with some of the odd lettering.

“That would greatly help, if I read this correctly, that is,” he chuckled softly, relaxing back once more, “I would appreciate the resources to learn your dialect. It doesn’t appear ‘too’ different, but enough that reading it is mildly challenging,” if possible, the more accustomed he became, he could request access to history material and resources, limitless literary means to gain more knowledge on the world he wished to learn more about.

“I can imagine it would be the same if I were to enter your world,” the other smiled very finely, “I assume the General had the same issue?”

“As observant as I pride myself to be, I’m actually uncertain. He never appeared to show any difficulty in adjusting my own world as I feel to yours,” although it was only the first day, there were a few things that left him a tad lost, he could gather and adjust to most. Cell Phones were most definitely a struggle that he could foresee, and Starskiff travelling, but over some time, he’d learn. Xiao also, he was a very fast learner and Morax would assume it’s due to age. Youth adjusted faster. Though from what he was told, even Xiao would be considered an impossibly-long lived species like himself and Dan Feng.

“I’m sure that you’ll learn fast,” the other encouraged. Morax was hopeful. To learn had been something he’d found joy in after taking the time to appreciate the artform of literature, and to know more about the location he’d be living for hopefully many more years, it was a joyful thought…

“Faster with the General’s help too,” the Vidyadhara had added and gestured towards the gates towards the Starskiff dock for the Exalting Sanctum. It was very clear as to why, as that very man himself was disembarking and already heading along the dock, smiling towards them and in no way hiding his eagerness with his pace and sole focus.

“I fear ‘helping me learn’ will be pushed back quite far with what plans he has now that I’m here,” Morax chuckled gently, very unaware of the stunned expressed from the younger man,
“He quite fancied the thought of showing me Scalegorge in detail and the Residential area,” the Adeptus added as the General closed in. Morax tilted his head after having not received a reply from the Vidyadhara and swiftly saw the ‘recovery from shock’, for some odd reason.
“Are you alright?” he hummed in question, unaware that his first sentence could have been taken very differently in meaning.

“Ye-yes, sorry. Don’t mind me,” Morax quirked a brow as he was politely waved off. As much as he wanted to inquire further though, he didn't have the chance.

“Evening, you two. I trust you had fun while I was being accosted,” the General smiled, appearing in good spirits, fortunately. So, the small… haughty young woman mustn’t have taken out so much aggression on him for the missed meeting, or he’d at least taken it in stride as that was very Jing Yuan of him.

“It was entertaining. Though I feel that Dan Heng found my struggles with the conversation box far ‘too’ entertaining,” he commented playfully, earning himself a chuckle from both the Vidyadhara and the General, the latter of which drew closer and sat on the other side of the Adeptus with an arm being hooked behind the older being.

“Ah yes, I’ve been curious as to how you handle a phone of your own. A fitting choice for the cover,” the General mentioned, turning the device over in the Adeptus’s lap to get a better gander at the golden scale pattern in the shape of a serpent dragon. Predictably, Jing Yuan was very close, so much so that simply leaning to the side would result in quite a lot of contact, their legs were already against one another.

“I thought so,” Morax brushed his thumb over the design, feeling the textured print, “Naturally, it reminds me of my serpent form, though the body is a brown scale, not gold, it still has that familiarity,” not to mention that he had retrieved the form and could use it once more, though he knew how much of a strain it could be when switching between them.

“The General did mention that you had one, but it had been on display?” Dan Heng spoke up with interest, drawing his attention.

“Yes, I’d shed the body in an act to test my nation. It’s… a long story for another time, though I’m willing to tell the tale once I’m far more settled and given the chance to relax with you again,” he mentioned with a warm smile, earning one in return.
“I’m also able to use it again, as I’d recovered it before my departure. I fear I may frighten the population, so I’ll refrain from using it within a populated area,” Morax grew a little sheepish, having experienced the scene a couple of times during a Ceremony or two.

“Yes, that’s absolutely advised,” the General chuckled, “Though I’m sure you’d be able to use it within the cover of Scalegorge so long as you’re careful if you’d like to stretch out in that form,” the man assured. Personally, though it was a tad straining to change, it was a far more freeing form.

“Back to the comment of settling in,” Dan Heng spoke once more as he moved to stand, “I’ll leave you in the capable hands of the General,” he lowered his head and bowed just slightly to the two.

“I take it your comrades have arrived,” Jing Yuan surmised, drawing a few conclusions for Morax. From what he’d gathered, the young Vidyadhara was something called a… Trailblazer? and was a part of a group with two others that appeared his own age or at least around it. So his friends must have appeared on the Luofu.

“Yes, they’re at the inn,” he’d mentioned while eyeing his device, returning his gaze to the Adeptus, “It was a pleasure to meet you, I hope to stay in contact, Lord Morax,”

“Please, just Morax. I appreciate your patience with me and your company… Once I’ve figured out this… phone… I’ll try my best to communicate often. Though, I don’t see why we can’t meet up while you’re here if you’d prefer?” Morax smiled again and moved to stand with him, Jing Yuan following.
“It really is a pleasure,” the Adeptus held out his hand, immediately feeling the grasp of the other.

“I’d like that. I’ll take my leave,” and with that, Morax watched as the young man turned and headed off with a wave towards Earthrise Agora, the inn, to his knowledge, being on the other end of the Haven area.

The Adeptus continued watching, glad that he had spent time with the Vidyadhara. He’d answered quite a few of his curiosities, one being the species that he’d been mistaken for in the beginning as well as the general methods to simply ‘be’ an individual within the Luofu. He’d gathered rather swiftly that he’d likely be under the same label that would lead others to not take his payments, not only due to appearance but due to his connections with Dan Heng, Bailu and Jing Yuan. He would still try, of course.

“You appear in thought, Morax,” the deep, soft voice thrummed against his ear, his gaze easing to his side to see that the General was, indeed, very close, taken by the Adeptus from the expression he’d gained… Understandable, now that they were alone in each other's company, though still in public.

“In such a short amount of time, I’ve been exposed to much that I’ve yet to fully understand. I may be mildly unfocused,” he smiled softly in return, a hand slipping his phone within his pocket beside Xiao’s new device.

“Would you care to relax in your new abode~?” as playfully ‘teased’ as his words were, Morax could feel the warmth behind them. He was very aware that he’d be living with the General upon his arrival to the Luofu and would have more than enough space for the Adeptus to fully find comfort and security, he’d been told as much by the man himself. And so…

“I would,” he nodded slowly, “Are you going to stay? Or are you to be recalled to your work?” Morax questioned as he was led away towards the Starskiff dock that the General had disembarked only a short time ago. Noticeably, it was a tad larger, fractionally more extravagant. A Personal Starskiff maybe?

“Fortunately, I’ve negotiated a day or two of freedom for both myself and Yanqing, as your General appears to have stolen him for exploration purposes,” the man replied with amusement to his tone, not appearing all that bothered by it. Though, if that were the case, then wouldn’t there be wasted time?

“I hope neither of us take up too much of your time,” he voiced his thoughts as they slowed to a stop beside the vehicle, “I take it, you’re aware of where they are?” Morax tilted his head in question as he was helped into the Starskiff, finding it easier than before while stepping over to the furthest seat with Jing Yuan following.

“I am,” the man nodded as he sat beside him, “Although Fyxestroll Garden can be… a concerning place… I feel that your General shall fare fine,” Jing Yuan reassured while pressing a few key buttons on the board ahead of them, a residential area, he’d assumed.

“So long as it’s no trouble, and for your Retainer. Xiao can be quite intense, but he means well,” Morax chuckled softly, relaxing in his seat as the Starskiff began the journey.

The trip itself was more than interesting. Whether or not the General had purposely avoided traffic was up for debate as there were no signs of other Starskiff along the way and it felt more… direct? Was there a special route for upper ranks? had been a question he’d asked himself as they were slowing and lowering to a very extravagant looking building that resembled a theme akin to his own back in Liyue. Another cultural similarity to note, as he’d seen many upon his arrival.

It took little to no time for the vehicle to stop within a column beside the building and for Jing Yuan to climb out, aiding Morax in doing the same. Not much was said as he’d followed the other to the large door that was opened with a simple… swipe of a small rectangular card?

“Welcome, Morax,” the man smiled and lightly nudged the door open, stepping aside for the Adeptus to step in first. And he did, very tentatively.

Morax slowly eyed the inside as he took small steps into the neat hall, adored with simple decor along the walls on either side up until an opening parted the space. A living area, as clean as ever and just as homely with its lounge like scene. To the other side, there were two doors, the bathroom, he’d imagine from the symbol on the surface. Far ahead was an open dining area and a kitchen to the right of it, a large bedroom door to the left and while entering the dining room, it was gorgeously placed. Behind it was a wide floor to ceiling window, giving them a view of a few areas within the Luofu. The height, the sight, the warm rays of the evening sun baring the table in a red and orange glow.

A simple layout, but arranged so appealingly, so caringly, well lived in and warm with a sense of ‘home’ lifting any weight from his shoulders… Home…

Morax’s smile grew, breathing a relaxing sigh as a warmth grew behind him, the slightly larger frame of Jing Yuan embracing him from behind with his arms encircling him. Fortunately, not tight enough for him to be trapped, so that he could turn and return the hold.

“Welcome home, Morax,” Jing Yuan had rephrased, warmly gazing at the former Archon, at Morax.

“Thank you, Jing Yuan,” his words were followed by another warmth, their foreheads pressing, a gentle kiss following, and then another, and another.

Morax had found his calm, his retirement leading to such a grand end to his life with Liyue and starting a new venture with one that understood him so deeply that it… Bloomed.

He was home.

Notes:

And here's the end of the main story! I greatly appreciate the ones that followed me through this journey!! Next, and lastly, is the epilogue.

Not to make excuses, but I have some decent reasons for the huge gaps between the latest chapters.
Artfight starts in July and I have a long list of owed artwork that I need to get done before then as I participate every year. I've been sorta struggling due to the list, it's pretty daunting.
And if you don't know what Artfight is, I recommend checking it out if you're an artist. I have fun with this yearly event, as does a lot of friends of mine ^^

Chapter 30: Epilogue

Notes:

NOTE: This is like... TEN years into the future. So they're definitely older.
- Yanqing is in his late teens.
- Xiao hasn't changed.
- Morax and Jing Yuan haven't either.
- Bailu likely looks a lil' older.

The daughter's name is Ziyou, which translates to "Freedom". (according to the google translate. Don't quote me.)

“I fear I may be to blame for this,” Jing Yuan grimaced just slightly with very well hidden amusement, most definitely feeling fractionally guilty for the scene ahead of he and his beloved Adeptus. He knew for a fact that Morax hadn’t shown such a rowdy trait in the time that he had known him, nor had Morax ever told him of such a trait from his past and the General had been updated on quite a lot of the years. Yes, he’d been a destructive figure in his past, but never had the word ‘rowdy’ been associated with him.

For Jing Yuan… there… HAD been times when he was labelled in such a way.

As for the scene ahead of them… While he had been venturing along the beach of Scalegorge with their beautiful child, they’d been greeted by the young woman and his beloved earthly partner. They’d been taking a break from Bailu’s self-claimed project of rebuilding the Scalegorge Ruins, to which Morax and Dan Heng had been included. Though the latter was on an Express mission, he had disappeared a while ago.

Today, it had been down to the two serpents as they had found another day free of work to continue the rebuild.

Unfortunately… Ziyou had taken it upon herself to… let out the pent up energy that he… might have had a hand in? In his defence, he and Yanqing had played with her earlier when he’d brought her into work with him due to her nanny having suddenly fallen ill!

And so… he thought that it would be fine! And wouldn’t have resulted in one of the weaker temporary structures falling upon using her recently acquired… lightning abilities… Yes, it appeared that she had taken on his affinity for Lightning and Erudition, and that had been somewhat anticipated due to Morax’s power not technically being born genetics. But there had… been a fifty fifty genetic coin flip for the traits. She had most definitely taken on more of Jing Yuan than he liked to offer and not in the best sense as a few of his traits had led to a lot of trouble in his youth… which was playing out once more, but with their daughter.

“You most definitely ‘are’ to blame, at least partially,” Morax had deadpanned, staring at the destroyed temporary structure and the young girl sat amongst the debris while looking both very pleased with herself and finding the situation amusing as she was attempting to find Bailu under the tarps that had been placed to protect the structure… Not from a hurricane in the form of a young girl, it seemed.

“The… rest of the blame could be due to the snacks she’d been given to keep her distracted while… I worked,” immediately, he felt the exasperated motherly stare strike him, and rather than sparing himself, he met the gaze, feeling the mild wrath behind them. He was very aware that sugar and children were a bad mix after the sweets took hold.

“... Apologies?” he tried weakly with a sheepish smile, glad that Morax didn’t genuinely seem upset. He could see that fraction of amusement, no matter how hard the Adeptus tried to hide it.

To save the situation, at least a little, Jing Yuan descended the few stairs and climbed over some of the mess before descending further, kicking the tarp aside and stepping into the space where the two were struggling. Or playing, it was hard to tell.

“Ziyou,” he called with a smile, immediately catching her attention and earning himself a chuckle while reaching out to her, “I’d advise avoiding the ruins, yeah?” he lifted the girl by her upper body, hoisting her over the mess and setting her on the steps where it was clear of debris.
“Go to your mother,” he’d instructed, earning himself another chuckle and a rather loud ‘Okay papa!’ from her before she’d swiftly darted off towards Morax.

He returned his gaze to the debris, seeing Bailu attempting to free herself of the tarps.
“Apologies for this mess,” he grimaced, aiding her to stand and directing her away. Given the chance, he’d fix it, it was an accident, yes, but to an extent, he had had a hand in it.

“Yanqing, Xiao,” Jing Yuan lifted his gaze to the stairs where the dragons and child were now glancing up towards the peak of the stairs, seeing the two had arrived and it’d drawn a smile to his face once more.

“Afternoon,” the General greeted as he climbed out of the mess to re-join his partner, climbing the steps with them. It’d been a couple of days since he’d seen either Xiao or his Retainer and though they appeared tired, they were smiling. Or at least Yanqing was. He’d never seen the Yaksha smile.
“Are there any updates on the rumours?” he’d asked as the group met up with them, gradually straying away from the stairs to the gorge.

“Guinaifen, again,” Xiao had muttered exasperatedly as he strode ahead, “Her imagination running wild that she’d seen another spirit. It was a cycrane that had been caught up in a washing line and blanket and had made the journey to Fyxestroll Garden to drop a parcel,”

“So not the mara-struck resurfacing?” Morax questioned curiously as he and the others headed towards a seating area, a couple of stone benches with the trademark tells of Morax’s power having been used to create it.

“No, it appears that they’re dealt with, though we’ll continue to make sure that none crop back up,” Yanqing reassured with confidence. And they’d done well. Jing Yuan had witnessed the results of their efforts along with the Cloud Knights.

The General reached down while walking along, lifting Ziyou, who’d practically cackled, and took a seat beside Morax, lowering their daughter to sit between them, snug in her position as she began playing with his uniform decor. He watched her, only half taking note of the conversation regarding the update as their gorgeous girl played between them.

He briefly caught the movement before feeling the warm hand against his face, lifting his gaze and leaning into the hand to see Morax gazing at him, no sign of his mild exasperation from earlier.

He was lucky, a very lucky man to have been thrown into the world of Teyvat, to meet this beautiful being, to have him, to have a result of their love, to know that he and his world were the cause of the love and calm that the being exuded and thrived on after having settled.

“... I love you,” Jing Yuan whispered softly, returning the loving gaze.

“And I you,” Morax warmly whispered, his gaze gentle, as gentle as his hand.

“And me!” the two briefly broke from their transfixion and glanced down to see their very energetic little girl reaching up for both of them, drawing a chuckle from the two.

Notes:

Thank you so much for joining me for this story, it genuinely means a lot. It's been a long time since I've written a huge story to this length and this was a delight!

To mention a few things:
- I'm definitely planning to add some extra 1/? chapters related to this story, and if you'd like to keep updated on them, please follow the series that this story is linked to! General's Archon Series
- For more crossovers between these games, there is another series that this is a part of. Genshin+Star Rail || Cross Pairs

For those that enjoyed the story despite the plot mistakes regardless of whether you left a comment on those mistakes or not, Thank you.
For those that enjoyed and didn't leave any comments, Thank you.
For those that enjoyed and didn't comment or kudos, Thank you.
For those that enjoyed up until a few chapters and didn't bother reading further, Thank you.
I genuinely appreciate you all for following me through this story.

Series this work belongs to:

• Part 1 of Genshin+Star Rail || Cross Pairs
• Part 1 of General's Archon Series