𝐑𝐀𝐈𝐒𝐎𝐍 𝐃'𝐄𝐓𝐑𝐄, childe

( DOS. )

The breeze caressed the girl's skin as (Y/N)'s eyes traced the birds gliding effortlessly along the wind—free and unburdened. Shaking away the stray thoughts, she shifted her gaze from the sky to the woman before her: Lady Ningguang, the Tianquan of the Liyue Qixing.

Ningguang was more than a leader to (Y/N); she was her savior, the one who pulled her from the depths of despair and gave her a new life. For this, (Y/N) owed her everything—more than could ever be repaid. In return, Ningguang had asked not for mora but for unwavering loyalty and service.

Standing before the Millelith soldiers, Ningguang offered a serene smile. "General (Y/N), it’s reassuring to have you with us for this year’s Rite of Descension."

"Of course, My Lady," (Y/N) replied respectfully. "This event is deeply cherished by the citizens of Liyue. It’s an honor to participate and accompany you."

"There’s no need to be so formal," Ningguang said with a warm smile. "Shall we?"

────

The two walked side by side through the bustling streets of Liyue, their presence drawing every eye. Whispers and admiration followed them, as the sight of Lady Ningguang alone was enough to inspire awe. Walking alongside her was a privilege few could claim.

As they neared the gates of Yujing Terrace, its grandeur grew with each step. The crowd gathered in anticipation, awaiting the Rite of Descension—a sacred tradition that people held close to her heart. It was a time when the people reaffirmed their faith in Rex Lapis, the Geo Archon.

Ningguang ascended the steps with grace, and the crowd parted with a single click of her heel. While Ningguang, Keqing, and her secretaries took their places, (Y/N) remained behind to maintain order and observe the ceremony.

The air was thick with anticipation as the citizens awaited the presence of their god. But the stillness was shattered in an instant.

From the heavens, a massive form plummeted—a dragon’s lifeless corpse. The crash echoed as it obliterated stalls and shattered pottery. Even Ningguang, ever composed, was momentarily stunned. Kneeling beside the remains, she extended a hand in shock. Her widened eyes confirmed the unthinkable.

"Rex Lapis has been assassinated! Seal all exits!" she commanded, her voice firm despite the chaos.

Reacting swiftly, (Y/N) dashed toward the nearest exits, her heart racing with an intensity she hadn’t felt before. Was it grief? Fury? Or perhaps betrayal? She couldn’t tell. Pushing these thoughts aside, she barked orders to the guards as she passed them.

"Rex Lapis has been assassinated! Guard all exits immediately! Do not let anyone through without authorization. Detain anyone suspicious!"

The Millelith snapped into action, spreading throughout the area. But despite her relentless search, (Y/N) found no sign of the perpetrator. As frustration built, her keen eyes caught a glimpse of two figures—a blonde-haired traveler and a silver-haired floating companion.

"Hey, you two!" (Y/N) called out, her voice sharp with authority. Her instincts told her the blonde possessed immense power, though something about her felt… different.

Startled, the pair exchanged glances before bolting.

Summoning her blade, (Y/N) gave chase. Her movements were precise as she hurled a hydro potion, drenching the traveler’s legs in water. The floating companion escaped unscathed, but (Y/N) wasted no time capitalizing on the opportunity. With a flick of her wrist, her sword glowed with icy blue energy as she prepared to freeze the blonde in place.

Just as the blade flew, a stray arrow intercepted it midair, pinning it to the ground.

"Now, now, (Y/N)," a familiar voice chuckled. "Were you really just trying to freeze her, or was that an attempt to take her down entirely?"

The voice belonged to Childe, a Fatui Harbinger. His smirk was infuriating as he lowered his bow.

"What was the water for?!" the floating girl blurted out, whispering frantically.

Rolling her eyes, (Y/N) sighed, her patience waning. "So, you’re with the Fatui."

"What?!" the floating girl shrieked. "We’d never—"

"Paimon, hush!" the blonde snapped.

Ignoring their protests, (Y/N) glared at Childe. "Stop interfering."

Childe grinned but placed his weapon away. "As much as I’d enjoy a spar with you, I’m in the middle of a mission." With a wink, he picked up (Y/N)’s sword and turned to the blonde. "Come on, let’s go."

Dragging the traveler along, Childe vanished into the distance, leaving (Y/N) seething. Her icy gaze followed them as she whispered, "You won’t escape next time, Fatui scum. Mark my words."

"Wait, but you’ve got it all wro—"

"Paimon, just keep moving!"

(Y/N) sighed, knowing pursuit was futile for now. The culprits—two peculiar strangers and a Fatui Harbinger—would likely seek refuge at the Northland Bank. She clenched her fists, already anticipating the long week ahead.