cursed wings of grief | genshin impact x f.reader

𝐎𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐬 (𝟓)

The last embers

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The sun hung low in the sky, casting a fiery hue across the lands of Liyue, its rays breaking through the once thick canopy of the forest. Yet, there was an ominous air that thickened with every passing moment. In the heart of whatever remained of the Qiong Qi settlement, anxiety rippled through the community, heavy and palpable. Whispers of an impending attack had spread, a malevolent shadow creeping closer, fueled by fear and hatred.

Y/N stood at the edge of the grove, the familiar scent of the earth and the soft rustle of the leaves providing a brief comfort amidst the rising tension. She gazed up at the remaining trees, their ancient boughs swaying gently, seemingly unaware of the storm brewing. Her heart raced, a wild thrumming that echoed the chaos of emotions swirling within her.

“Y/N!” Zhen’s voice broke through her thoughts, urgent and insistent. She turned to see her brother approaching, his expression tense and strained. “We need to talk. The elders have gathered.”

Following him into the heart of the settlement, she could feel the weight of fear settling over them like a dark cloud. Qiong Qi of all ages had gathered, their once-spirited chatter now replaced with hushed tones and worried glances. The elders, their faces lined with conflict alongside their age and wisdom, were deep in discussion, their voices barely above a whisper.

“It’s only a matter of time,” one elder said, his voice heavy with sorrow. “The Liyuan leaders have made their decision. They believe we are a threat, that we must be eliminated to ensure the safety of their people.”

Y/N’s stomach twisted in knots. “But we’ve done nothing wrong! We are guardians, not monsters!” she protested, her voice rising in desperation.

“Your heart is pure, Y/N, but their fear has taken hold,” Zhen replied softly, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder. “Some of us are choosing to fight. Others… others wish to flee deeper into the forest.”

“Flee?” Y/N echoed, her voice trembling at the repeated option, “We can’t abandon our home! This is where we belong!”

“Home is not just a place, but a feeling,” Zhen said, his voice laced with a determination that belied his fear. “But if we do not stand our ground, we risk losing everything we are.”

The elders’ meeting continued, voices rising and falling like the tide. Some spoke of resistance, of the strength within them, while others insisted on retreat, recognizing the overwhelming force that awaited them. But deep down they all know none of this would change the outcome, and the fear in the air hung heavy with the knowledge that they were about to face annihilation.

Just as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky with shades of crimson and gold, a rustling echoed through the trees. Y/N’s heart sank as she heard the unmistakable sound of boots trampling through the underbrush. The Liyuan soldiers had arrived.

“Zhen! Y/N! We need to move!” their mother shouted, her voice cutting through the rising panic. She rushed towards them, her eyes wide with fear. “They’re here!”

Before Y/N could respond, Lian grabbed her hand, pulling her close. “You must listen to me. I need you to be brave, okay?” Her mother’s voice wavered, but her grip was firm. “You little ones have to hide. They can’t find you.”