❝ 二元性 ❞
duality
—
UNDER THE COVER of night, a shadowy figure made their way weaving through the back alleys of Liyue Harbor. The civilians of the city were too occupied with the announcement of the Director of the (l/n) Company and the Sixth Harbinger's wedding which will be held next month. Ceremonious, they were all too jaded to see the true danger lurking beneath the alcoholic buzz and golden sparkles.
Swift steps, silent. The figure danced with the devious shadows, playing tricks on the mind as the phantom roamed the darkness. No amount of light shed upon the phantom's truth.
Clocking around the corner of the near-empty Ministry of Civil Affairs, the phantom observed the few guards on duty. The streets of Feiyun Slope were rather barren as well. Was the Ministry so naïve as to set so few people out to guard such a place? Or has their own foolishness blinded them to indulge in such trivial materialism?
Nevertheless, the phantom pressed onwards to find their target.
Lurking within the darkness, a second figure stood alone, tapping their foot angrily as if awaiting someone who was late. A noise of discontent could be heard before the phantom greeted the figure.
"You're early." A young, masculine voice emitted from the shadow-veiled individual.
"And you're late." The figure who spoke possessed a much deeper baritone. He sounded weary, tired. Moonlight cascaded over the two to briefly reveal the figure's olden features. The phantom however, was concealed from the golden hues of the street lanterns.
"My sincerest apologies." The phantom answered, it lacked any genuine meaning. "As you know, entering Liyue Harbor undetected is a difficult task. Luckily, there seems to be a rather special occasion that has captured everyone's attention."
The figure snorted at his words. "That is at your own causation. It is because you threatened the Director so many times, tight security at the manor is necessary."
The phantom seemed pleased to hear the response. "Well, then I suppose I did my job well."
The figure didn't answer, instead, he changed the topic entirely. "Did you bring what was asked of the exchange?"
In the faint orange glow, a small box was presented. The phantom wordlessly held it out to the figure which prompted the latter to reach out, only for the phantom to withdraw it. "Oh Lan Fei, you're too hasty. What's the hurry?"
Lan Fei clicked his tongue in discontent, huffing in annoyance. "It's too dangerous for us to meet like this— of course I am being hasty! Hand over the box."
"Certainly." The phantom said in a sing-song tone. "But I need to ensure the payment has already been sent beforehand. I am a cautious man, you see."
Under the currents of his teasing lilt, there was a dangerous blade hidden. Lan Fei glanced downwards to see the faint glow of crimson emitting from the phantom's cloak. For a brief moment, he saw what he assumed was a Pyro Vision, but upon second glance— it looked... particularly odd.
"The banks are closed today due to early celebration. I will wire you the payment tomorrow. Let me see the jewel first." Lan Fei insisted, his tone growing frantic with every passing second.
"Are you worried about getting caught, Lan Fei?" The phantom teased, laughing at the other's waning patience.
"I have a reputation, you know. Looking after someone like you is troubling enough... I made a promise and I intend to keep it." Lan Fei snapped at him. He waved his open palm at the phantom, awaiting the deposit. "You have it, don't you?"
"You and the rest of the upper society are all so fickle. What's the fun in not indulging chaos every once in a while? Must you be so uptight about everything?" The phantom mused at Lan Fei, laughing in his face. "You lot are all the same. That's why I hate people like you."
Lan Fei was slightly taken aback by his sudden attitude shift, directed towards him of all people. Who did he think he was if it wasn't for these dealings?
"I can expose who you really are to Millelith right now. Hand over the ring." Lan Fei threatened, growing wildly impatient the longer this prolonged game went on. Of course, he would do no such thing - it was an empty threat.
"Why, I would encourage you to do so. After all, once I obtain my rightful title— all there is left is for the dowry to be found and I can legally be proclaimed heir." It was the truth; and there came confidence in his tone as the words filled the silence. Granted such things wouldn't be so easily accomplished but with time, who else could refute the claim of the blood heir backed by three officials of the illustrious trading company?
Even so, his display of unorthodox hubris certainly made him arrogant - overstepping his own authority without fear. That would prove to be a fatal mistake, should he not be careful with his actions.
"You are underestimating the Director then... Her authority stretches beyond your scope of understanding. She has both the Fatui's blessing and the Black Dragon working for her. Not to mention, her fiancé is a dangerous man. It should be said that she is in a far better position than you." Lan Fei warned, his tone treading on a dangerous scale.
"Lan Fei, Lan Fei..." The phantom spoke hauntingly. "You're here to collect the ring. Not to berate me like some child. I have lived with the threat and loom of death all my life– do you think this would hinder me and my goal?"
"You wouldn't dare do anything too dangerous..." He didn't believe his words.
"Oh?" A crimson glint flickered in the phantom's dark eyes, caught by equatorial flames. The phantom reluctantly places the box into the older man's hand, withdrawing quickly. "Are you certain, Lan Fei?"
Lan Fei scoffed as he returned the payment, placing a small leather pouch in the opened palm of the phantom. "I am not fearing for you if that is what you're concerned with."
"No..." The phantom shook his head, his voice barely above the whispers of the wind. "I meant for your own life."
Lan Fei raised an eyebrow. "You're concerned for me?"
There was an uncharacteristic silence that followed. The phantom who was typically snippet and responsive fell silent; the lowly glow of crimson barely concealed by his cloak revealed his pained expression.
Lan Fei's eyes widened at the sight. "What... Are you hurt anywhere...?" He took a few steps forward, closing the space between the two of them - only for the phantom to stagger back.
The phantom let out a muffled sound that resembled a pained grunt. "No... I'm... I'm fine—"
The phantom was cut off by a sudden sharp pain, throbbing at the back of his head as he brought a hand to clutch onto the side of it. He groaned, shaking and writhing as a loud ringing overtook his senses. Burning, acidic; he familiarized himself with such pains in the past and yet it never seemed to dull in the slightest.
"Qiu-er!" Lan Fei's movements quickened, kneeling to help. He brought a hand to the side of the phantom's face, only for the latter to slap it away harshly. He observed the flicker in the phantom's pained expression that quickly turned to crimson anger.
"Do not call me by that name!" The phantom 'Qiu' roared, standing to his full height, only staggering to the side from the continuous pain that haunted him. He fell against a nearby pole, gasping heavily.
For the moment, a breeze fluttered by to remove the cape hood from the phantom's head - revealing his youthful features. Though pained and raging with vengeance , anyone who gazed upon him recognized his face to be the one of his late mother.
One could almost say that he's beautiful; possessing his mother's feminine features like his softened eye shape, pointed chin, and arched brows. Yet in spite of his appearance that was reminiscent of beauty, his eyes were lit aflame with vengeance and hysteria. There was no semblance of humanity left within the boy.
"Qiu-er..." Lan Fei shook his head, gasping with disapproval. "What have you done to yourself?"
The phantom 'Qiu' grimaced, shaking off the concern as he braced himself against the pillar for support. "It... was a necessary sacrifice."
Lan Fei's gaze fell, landing upon the glowing ember hidden behind crystalline glass. A cold shudder befell him as the realization dawned on him. "You... sold yourself to the devil for the price of your own life...? How could you throw away your own existence like that–"
"You have no right to berate me! You of all people are not qualified to critique me!" The phantom was quivering, like a trembling leaf in the autumnal winds. His voice was raw, vulnerable. It was the first in a long time he felt that way.
"Qiu-er..." Lan Fei shook his head, frowning. "You're still young... Is it truly worth throwing your life away like this?"
The phantom 'Qiu' knelt to the floor, eyes glued to the cracked concrete beneath his feet. His fingers dug into this scalp, pulling at his hair as he let out a shaky gasp. "What... What am I meant to do if I do not take vengeance? If I do not take back what is rightfully mine? That I am to live with the reality that my mother died for no reason at all? And this nobody can take what is mine?"
Burning gaze, he finally lifted his chin to meet Lan Fei's worried eyes. "What purpose does this worthless life of mine provide if I do not take initiative?"
Lan Fei couldn't provide the phantom 'Qiu' any answer– at least, not an answer he would've wanted to hear. In the end, he took the ring and gave the money like they had intended to exchange; unable to say anything more. Nevertheless, there was a thought resting in the back of his mind; if perhaps there was any chance of reconciliation between two estranged siblings.
No, Lan Fei grimaced, recognizing that fate itself was being challenged. Only one would be capable of freeing themselves of their torment.
"AND THAT CONCLUDES MY REPORT..."
YOUR NEWLY APPOINTED Chief of Public Relations wrapped up his first report with a nervous smile. He hastily bowed, losing his professional air the moment his time with you was up. You would've remarked on this indignity though this came as a demerit of age and experience. For that reason, you felt it would've been hypocritical of you to critique him on such a thing when you yourself was barely qualified to be the director of a major trading company at age twenty one.
"Thank you... Mister...?" You glanced up, tapping your fountain pen against your desk as you awaited an answer.
"Ah...! Saito... Director. I go by Saito." He gave a nervous smile in response. His gaze tends to wander, more specifically– he would directly look past you rather than at you.
"Saito?" You raised an eyebrow, following his gaze to look over your shoulder at Wenling– who wasn't looking at you either. You took mental note of this.
"Young Master, Mister Saito is of both Inazuma and Liyue descent. Though he possesses a Inazuman surname despite having been born here." Wenling informed you promptly. You nodded, turning back to the nervous Saito who had snapped out of his daze.
"Tell me, Saito..." You dropped the formalities as you propped your chin up with the palm of your hand, elbow hard against your desk. "Have you visited Inazuma before?"
"Oh yes!" He said too excitedly, almost child-like. "It was a brief visitation thanks to my mother's position in the Tri-Commission. It's a beautiful nation... Once the Decree has been lifted, I intend to visit again. I'm certain the Director would like it as well... Your fiancé is from Inazuma, yes? Perhaps the two of you can visit together." He paused, cheeks flushing red at the realization he had been rambling for too long. "My apologies, Director– I didn't mean to ramble about your personal affairs."
You shook your head, giving a smile to reassure him. "No, no... It's alright. I haven't visited Inazuma before... I would love to go one day. Hearing your experience, I am certainly excited."
Saito let out a sigh of relief. "I am happy to hear... Should the Director ever wish to hear more about my experience or recommendations, I'll be sure to make an extensive list. But if that is all the Director wishes to discuss, I will excuse myself." He turned to leave without another word, it left you and Wenling alone in the office. Though not before you noticed his lingering stare...
He looked past you, at the individual standing by your desk. His cheeks brightened with a rosy blush, eyes widening before he hastily left. You finally recognized where you've seen those stares; the gazes that past suitors bestowed upon you prior to your engagement. But it wasn't directed towards you but rather...
"Charming, is he not?" You turned to Wenling, flashing a smirk at your head maid who shared a flushed expression.
"If my master means to say his clumsiness is charming, then I will have to agree. It is rather refreshing." Wenling avoided your haughty gaze, suddenly fixated with the frills of her white blouse.
"Wenling... Why didn't you tell me about him earlier? You were the one who recommended him to me, did you not?" You teased, smiling brightly at the dusting of pink that made its way to Wenling's pale cheeks.
She mumbled your name, prompting a light laughter from you. "Yes, yes... I won't tease you anymore. Do I have any more meetings to attend today?"
Wenling shook her head in response. "That was the last one. However, there is a luncheon scheduled with the Yuheng and Qixing Secretary later today. Lord Scaramouche, though he previously stated his schedule was too busy, will be in attendance.."
You raised an eyebrow at this. "I was under the impression he had meetings all throughout the weekend?"
"Lord Scaramouche informed me that he moved them to a different time. My presumption is that he deemed this meeting to be more important."
If Ganyu is present, there would be a reason for him to be present... You thought to yourself, recognizing this as an opportunity for him to properly discuss the rushed plans for the wedding. That was the intention for the luncheon; and to apologize to Keqing in regards to Li Wei's fate (though, you were unsure if they were close... Li Wei is a member of her extended family after all).
"I see..." You rose from your seat, turning to Wenling with a smile. "So... How long have you known Saito for?"
Wenling turned a deep shade of crimson, flushed by your words. "I... We only met a month back... When we were looking for candidates to fill in the vacant positions of the new Board."
You nodded along, beaming at her. "Mmm... I remember looking at his application. He's promising, just inexperienced. Though I had never thought you would be so fond of him."
Wenling actively avoided your gaze, too embarrassed to speak. You laughed merrily; you couldn't help but feel overjoyed for her, knowing that she had finally broken from her servitude nature to seek her own happiness.
"If you choose to pursue him, I will not hinder you. Seek him out." You encouraged, nodding to her. "You deserve to find happiness for yourself."
She looked uncertain, frowning in spite of your positive attitude. "I cannot dedicate myself to you wholly... It defeats my purpose to seek such selfish desires by pursuing him."
You sighed, knowing that this was going to come regardless. You grabbed her hands, clasping them tight. Wenling looked to you worriedly, whispering your name in confusion. "Did... I say something wrong...?"
"You did." You paused, shaking your head at her in disbelief. "You are allowed to fulfill your own desires whilst serving me– in fact, your happiness contributes to your role as my caretaker and friend."
Wenling's eyes widened, her mouth agape with a rebuttal but you continued before she could say anything,
"This is an order," you said sternly, squeezing her hands. "Pursue him. I want you to be happy. And even if it doesn't work out in the end... I want you to act in your best personal interest rather than my own. Besides... My personal interest is for you to find your own happiness."
It took a moment for Wenling to fully process the words. You realized that you had been ignorant of her wants for the better half of her service to you - not to mention been ignorant of much ongoing in your life. She deserved this much, to be happy in pursuit of the one she loves.
Wenling leaned into your clasped hands, her forehead bumping against your thumbs lightly. The action was gentle, full of affection. You recognized this action to be one from your youth; as a means to soothe you when you were a child. It made you acutely aware of how long she's been in your service; looking after you when no one else did. Her efforts have always been in your interest, your own safety and happiness. She protected you, then and now. A sworn oath. The familiarity in it brought a wave of tranquility to your heart.
Her voice was low as she said your name, her voice wavered ever-so-slightly. "Thank you..."
You couldn't help but smile, leaning into her and gently resting the side of your face on her shoulder; fondly relaxing against her as you had as a child.
"No... Thank you..."
AS EXPECTED, THE Yujing Pavilion of the Liyue Qixing stood proud in the gilded glory even following the incident that occured months ago. In that time, much has changed... Or, at the very least, you perceive many changes since then - namely your relationship with Scaramouche. Since that day, you can confidently say that your relationship was far more amicable than the last time you visited the members of the Qixing following your adoptive father's death.
"Nervous?" You asked, glancing over to your fiancé who simply rolled his eyes at you.
"You think too little of me." Scaramouche replied, scoffing with disbelief.
You chuckled at his response before glancing over to the bamboo front gardens that stood beside the Pavillion; eyes glossing over the glaze lilies that decorated the greenery with a cluster of blue.
You nudged Scaramouche, pointing to the flora with an excited expression. "The glaze lilies look beautiful, don't you think?"
Scaramouche hummed in response. "Are you trying to convince me to plant some in our gardens?"
"Our gardens?" You beamed at this, prompting a glare from your fiancé. There was no poison in his actions, now that you were used to his antics. "I think they would look lovely with the tsubaki's... Don't you think so?"
"If you want them, I'll make the arrangements." He answered, folding his arms across his chest.
"And will it be billed to me or you?" You pushed for more, beaming at him with wide eyes.
Scaramouche scoffed. "Me, of course. Are you so eager to pay for them yourself?"
You shook your head. "I don't mind... I just wanted to hear you say it."
"You're fawning over simple things. Your net-worth is on par with mine. You could easily afford anything I buy for you." As usual, Scaramouche rolled his eyes at you but you laughed it off. Glaze lilies were rather expensive; buying a few dozen for the gardens would still cost a small fortune and yet he made it sound like he was willing to spend any amount on you - so long as you'd desired it. The thought made you giddy, buzzing internally with a wave of affection.
"It's the sentimentality that matters; to know you would do these things for me in spite of that." You countered, linking arms with him. Notably, Scaramouche does not complain nor say another word to counter yours.
"Childish," he scolds you, but there is no venom in his tone. He brings a hand up to your face, flicking your nose gently as a means to berate you. A loud noise of complaint leaves your lips as you returned the gesture to him - childish indeed.
In all truth, you felt your heart racing. It thundered in your chest, like the rush of a hundred horses pounding against your chest. The adrenaline rush alone made you dizzy. You held him close, wondering if he could also feel the way your heart pounded against your ribcage; all for him.
"Director...!" You heard someone call your name, prompting you to look to the entrance of the Pavilion to see Keqing and Ganyu; the former waving at you with a smile.
There was quite a dichotomy between the Qixing's version of Keqing and the version of Keqing being herself without the professional restraint. You have known her since youth; casually seeing one another when not busy with work. Same could be said about Ganyu, who has barely aged or changed in the years you've known her.
"Keqing, Ganyu..." You returned their gesture as they approached you. "Have you been well?"
"Just fine." Keqing answered, looking over to the secretary beside her. "Though I cannot say the same for Ganyu."
The Qixing secretary shook her head with a prolonged sigh. "Recent events have caused more paperwork than usual. I am faring... alright I suppose."
You gave her a sympathetic smile (not noticing your fiancé's growing irritation beside you). "If there is anyone capable of completing such arduous tasks, it's you."
Suddenly, you felt a tug on your arm; prompting you to look to your side at Scaramouche. The attention of the two were also directed to your fiancé.
"Balladeer," Keqing greeted dryly, maintaining a neutral smile. Ganyu only offered a slight bow.
"Are we planning to stand around here and chat?" He sneered, eyebrows furrowing into a tight knit. With every second, his patience grew thinner; that and the possessive grip on you tighter.
Feeling as though the tension between Keqing and Scaramouche was rising, you quickly spoke up. "Let's get a move on to our reservation at Liuli Pavillion, shall we? I'm sure you're starving with all the work you're swamped with."
At the mention of food, the animosity in Keqing's eyes disappeared; she backed off, coughing into her fist. "Yes... Let us get a move on."
"Agreed." Scaramouche answered, pulling you close as the four of you began to move towards Feiyun Slope.
A sigh escaped your lips as you shot Scaramouche a dirty look. "Why are you being so disagreeable with the Yuheng? She hasn't done anything to offend you."
"No, she hasn't." Scaramouche replied, still frowning and glaring at the back of Keqing's head.
"Then why are you behaving like this?" You raised an eyebrow at him.
"I am not fond of her." Is all he offered in terms of an explanation. You would've made a comment on how he was the one being childish but the point was made; the two of you were hypocrites. (And that's why perhaps, the two of you were made perfect for the other.)
Eventually, the four of you made it to the destination for luncheon without any more disruption (thankfully). You caught up with Keqing and Ganyu; sharing stories of the time you've spent away from the Qixing while the food arrived to the table.
Though many of the dishes were lavish, colorful, and heavy with spices; your meal remained simple with a bowl of congee with steamed winter melon and light broth (of what you assumed to be made from vegetable stock). You spared your fiancé a glance, raising an eyebrow and mouthing the words 'did you order this' to him. Scaramouche merely rolled his eyes at you, confirming your suspicions.
During the luncheon, you found yourself only taking a few bites of your meal. You chewed, tasting the softened winter melon mix with congee. Bitter, and all-too earthy. Instinctively, you grabbed a napkin and spat the food out with a bitter taste lingering on your tongue. You reached for the soup, taking a long sip to wash down the taste with the warm liquid.
"(y/n)? Do you not like the food?" Ganyu asked, concern filling her voice. All stopped their meals to look up at you.
"Oh no," you shook your head. "I... don't really have an appetite."
Keqing and Ganyu exchanged looks, frowning at one another. "If you're not hungry, please don't force yourself to eat."
Ah... that's not it either... You wanted to say but couldn't find the courage to explain your circumstances to them. Instead, you nodded silently.
At the corner of your perpheriheal, you watched Scaramouche wave down a waiter, whispering something unknown in his ear before turning back to the conversation at hand.
Keqing picked at the edible flowers with her chopsticks, lifting them to set upon Ganyu's plate full of vegetables. "Let's move onto the business at hand."
She set a folder upon the table, opening it to reveal certifications and paperwork for the upcoming wedding next month. It had all been certified and mostly completed by the Ministry. It only needed your signature.
"Lord Scaramouche has brought all the necessary paperwork for the processing of dual-citizenship to become an honorary Snezhnayan with Fatui titles. I just need signatures to confirm everything. Along with that, we will proceed with discussions on how this unification will affect your respective roles. I will leave the planning of the grand event to the two of you." Keqing explained professionally, presenting the paperwork associated with your citizenship as processed by the Ministry of Civil Affairs.
You glossed over the document, reading though it carefully in the case of a secret clause though nothing of the sort seemed present. Once signed, you would officially gain a title as 'Lord' in the Fatui ranks per marriage (and all the benefits that came as a result of that titlement). Bonus benefits included a lack of visa necessary to enter Snezhnaya and an annual salary per your title and contribution.
Seeing no hidden clauses, you signed the document without sparing a glance to Scaramouche for confirmation. You handed the parchment to Ganyu, who read through the contract quickly. She nodded to confirm everything, storing it away.
Suddenly, you felt Scramouche's hand on your thigh, gently squeezing it as a means to send a message to you: mine.
Possessive. You were tempted to scold him but said nothing as Keqing continued.
"How does the Director intend on splitting herself from title and spouse?" Keqing questioned, looking at the documents that served as contracts if necessary.
You had little discussion with Scaramouche in regards to this seeing as following the abduction, you haven't had many moments to share professional information with one another - too busy catching up with the work you had missed in your absence.
Sparing a glance to your side, you caught Scaramouche's staring - followed by the squeeze of your thigh again. 'Do whatever you want. I'll follow your lead.' He was reassuring you; or at the least, putting off the official discussion until later. It was always possible to have discussions in the future... After all, once the two of you are married - there will be all the time in the world to discuss these simple matters.
"My assets will be divided with my fiancé's. Property and wealth. As for my company... We will have to discuss it on a different day. International relations with Snezhnaya are still rocky; not to mention the overseeing of the branch all over Teyvat is spotty. I will need to reform the company some more before I can make a significant change or decision." You answered, sparing a quick look to Scaramouche who remained quiet with no objections to your proposal.
"Very well," Keqing handed the documents off to Ganyu. "And you, Balladeer? How do you intend on sharing your assets and titles upon marriage?"
Scaramouche finally removed his hand from your lap as he leaned back in his seat. "The same. My wealth, assets, servants, and all the rest will be shared. I have no quarrels with that."
Keqing raised an eyebrow, frowning with suspicion in her eyes. "You're being surprisingly agreeable, Balladeer."
Scaramouche immediately soured the mood (and his nice streak) by opening his mouth to reply in a sharp, grating tone. "Only for my fiancé's sake, I will tolerate and be agreeable with you just this once, Yuheng."
"Scaramouche...!" You snapped him breathily, shooting him a look to be corrigible at least until negotiations were over.
"Don't worry..." Ganyu said your name with a smile. "We're used to this sort of behavior from all sorts of people. It doesn't bother us."
At least, Scaramouche's behavior had no effect on Ganyu's godly patience. Keqing, on the other hand, tried to absorb what Ganyu said and feigned a tight-lipped smile. "Well then, Lord Scaramouche... I need you to sign a few things. Here."
After a few tense moments, all was done and over with (thank the Sevens for Ganyu - otherwise your own patience would've worn out). With all the papers signed, you enjoyed a relatively relaxing lunch with a new dish of carrots and potato with steamed rice (the one Scaramouche had ordered in case your stomach grew upset with the taste of winter melon). Thankfully, you were able to digest most of the meal without problem,
"Keqing, I want to apologize about my hasty decision with Li Wei... I should've consulted you beforehand..." You spoke up, setting your chopsticks over a mostly emptied bowl of rice. "I hope I have not offended you by condemning him."
Keqing, who finished her share of the Golden Shrimps Balls, quickly regained her composure to respond professionally. "It's no fault of yours... Honestly, had I known he was doing such a thing behind your back, I would've condemned him myself."
Well that's reassuring. You thought to yourself, smiling. "Has the Qixing discussed anything in regards to Jinhai? I'm certain Yi-Eun is fuming with my involvement..."
You hadn't thought about it much before... but with Jinhai arrested (a former member of your board and a close relative of Yi-Eun) would that implicate Yi-Eun in this conspiracy against you as well? Or if he was completely uninvolved... That is your hope at the very least.
Scaramouche squeezed your thigh again - you peeked over to observe his tensed expression. He mouthed; 'don't talk about him.' You knew why; his great disdain for Yi-Eun and for the possible implication.
"The Qixing has yet to meet to discuss the recent developments... I'm afraid with everything that has happened, we're very behind in our meetings." Ganyu's gaze fell, embarrassed. "But do not fret...! There will be discussions held soon. You needn't attend; I will send all the necessary information to you once we've conducted the meetings..."
You nodded. "Thank you, Ganyu... And... If you have a chance to pass my gratitude to the rest of the Qixing for their approval of my wedding next month. In a time like this, I understand my own privilege in these circumstances... You all have my most sincere thanks."
The luncheon ended with small talk, you and Scaramouche departed from Ganyu and Keqing to allow them to return to their busy work.
"What to do now?" You hummed quietly, turning to your fiancé as Ganyu and Keqing disappeared into the crowd.
"Anything you have in mind?" Scaramouche questioned, looking around at the busy stalls of Feiyun Slope. You followed his gaze before an idea came to mind.
"I want to walk around. To explore a bit. I haven't been in the Harbor for some time..." You answered, smiling as you watched a group of children run past you with wooden toys in hand.
"Hm," Scaramouche hummed in reply, following your lead.
"You don't object?"
"No. If that's what you want, I'll go along with it."
You beamed, turning on your heels with his hand in yours. "Then let's go!"
And so you spent the time remaining wandering around Liyue Harbor with Scaramouche in arms; ecstatically rushing from food stall to toy shop in admiration of the normalized civility of Liyue - that of which you never see occupied with your line of work.
"It's cute, is it not?" You held a plush up, smiling brightly as you turned to your fiancé.
He rolled his eyes at you, heaving a sigh. "Yes, yes... How many times will you ask me these questions? If you want to buy them, there is no need to ask for my opinion."
You pouted, pulling the plush to your chest. "I want us to live normally as well. These mundane things are what makes human life worthwhile, to spend time with the ones we love."
You did think that was terribly selfish for you to preach such a thing to him. You, of all people, preaching how the 'small things in life making life worth it" felt entirely so hypocritical when between the two of you; neither have ever experienced such joys until recently. But you believed those words to be true. That's what the world has taught you; that such short life should be cherished.
"Then would you like for me to make the purchase?" Scaramouche's voice snapped you out of your thoughts as you heard a second voice from beside you - a child's voice. You turned to see a small child, no older than the age of seven bouncing in excitement at the toys.
"Momma! I want that one." The child pointed to the shelf of the same model plush as the one you held. His eyes sparkled with youthful innocence, yet untainted by the world. You wondered to yourself... had you lived a normal childhood without the rigors of reality, would you have looked the same then?
"Hong-er, another time... We don't have enough to cover dinner and your toy..." The mother urged the child, tugging on his ragged shirt. "Come... How about a treat for you and your sister instead?"
The child resisted with a frown. "But Momma! You said that last time too!"
You recognized that look in the mother's eyes; the fear of disappointment. Naturally, a mother would want to fulfill their child's desires... at least, that was what they should want. In this case, she didn't possess the means to indulge.
"Scara, buy the toy for the child?" You whispered to your fiancé, holding the plush to him. His eyes flickered to the saddened child and back to you before sighing. He left with the toy in hand, presuming off to pay for it.
"Is that the toy you wanted?" You approached the child, remaining a distance away to assure both him and the mother wouldn't be alarmed by your sudden intrusion in the interaction.
"Ah... yes!" The child's eyes brightened as he nodded enthusiastically.
You smiled in response. "Do you want it?" The child nodded again.
Scaramouche returned with the plush paid for. You nudged him, prompting him forward to hand the child the toy. As the child reached for it, the mother pulled him back and shook her head. "Oh no, miss. You needn't do that. Hong-er's young... He will grow out of these things–"
"Take it." Scaramouche shoved the toy into the child's clammy hands, ignoring the mother's words.
"It is a gift from me." Your eyes remained transfixed on the child's expression, his eyes brimming with innocent excitement. You couldn't help but match his smile as he hugged the plush in delight, squeezing the toy in a tight hug. "Madam mentioned that she did not have enough money to pay for both items, yes? If it is okay, I would like to assist in paying for your necessities."
You understood what it was like to live without the basic necessities. It became one of your company's missions to ensure that children in Liyue Harbor (and by extension, as far as your influence can reach) would never have to endure what you had gone through. It was a slow, arduous process but you've learned that with time, results will show.
"Ah... Thank you! We're indebted to you, my lady!" The mother gestured for the child to bow his head. "Hong-er, your manners!"
The child bowed thrice, head touching the earth with gratitude. "Many thanks... to...?"
You told him your name, leaving out your last name purposefully to avoid attracting unnecessary attention. The child and mother thanked you graciously for your kindness. The child bounced up and down with the toy - a joyous expression on his youthful features.
After parting ways with the mother-son duo (leaving behind a generous donation to buy their necessities), your chest felt many times lighter.
"Are you displeased with my decision?" You asked your fiancé, eyes following the duo as they disappeared into the crowd.
"Why would I be?" Scaramouche replied, raising an eyebrow at you. "Isn't helping the less fortunate one of your company's missions?"
"You're the one who paid." You pointed out, turning to him. "It wasn't out of my company's pockets."
He scoffed at your words, there was an air of disbelief. "My money, your money– does it matter? What matters is that it was what you wanted so I simply did what you asked."
His words struck you, in particular his last line. It made you realize that it wasn't only you who has changed so drastically since your ascension to the position of Director... Scaramouche has changed just as much as you - perhaps even more so.
"You're... right..." You beamed, laughing softly. "I appreciate the gesture."
As you were pivoting to leave, you felt a tug on your sleeve that prompted you to turn back around.
"Wait..."
"Scaramouche–?"
"Here." He held the plush toy from earlier out to you, offering it. His eyes averted, unwilling to look you in the eyes. "What are you waiting for? Take it!"
He shoved that toy into your arms, face flushed ever so slightly. Your heart raced at the sight, to see your fiancé embarrassed from such a simple act - it almost made you flush as a result. Rather than embarrass him further, you stared at the toy endearingly, letting out a quiet laugh and pulled it to your chest.
He huffed, quickly walking past you to avoid further humiliation. You didn't mind, you were used to this sort of behavior from him now.
Between the two of you; there was never a need to say 'thanks' or 'sorry'. Even if not verbalized, you were certain he understood your gratitude nevertheless. He wasn't interested in hearing these words; it was a waste of time. Such sentimentalities were never necessary seeing as he grew to understand your meaning regardless.
"Shall we head home then?" You offered, chasing after your fiancé. Scaramouche only huffed, chin lifted to avoid your gaze.
Laughter rang through Liyue Harbor, resonating as far as the high balconies where a certain individual watched in envy. He glared at the walking couple, an ugly frown tugging at the corners of his lips.
"I'll make you pay." He snarled viciously, anger flickering in his eyes. "I'll take back what rightfully belongs to me."
Afar in the distance, storm clouds began to consume what was left of the sun's rays. A storm brewed in the far distance; soon it would arrive.
—
END OF CHAPTER TWENTY THREE
author's note.
long time no see again friends,,, haha.... as you can see, uni has taken a toll on me
thankfully - recent scaramouche content has somewhat revived me but im not up to date with genshin content since i quit a while back,,,
ive been focused on other projects (namely mxtx related content) && you can see all my updates on twitter! please follow me there for any updates :)
also - here to promote my ao3 again since that's where i post now ,,, in any case, thank you as always for reading! i hope this chapter has been satisfying for you to read hehe
more plot-relevant things to come! until then, take care friends :)