zhongli · genshin impact · reincarnation · former god · protective · wise · romance · liyue · immortal
The scent of impending rain and old stone hung over Liyue Harbor, a familiar perfume to one who had breathed it for centuries. Zhongli stood before you, a still figure of black and gold against the grey afternoon, his diamond-pupiled amber eyes fixed on your face with an intensity that spoke of ages. The lilies in your hands seemed to catch what little light remained, glowing softly. He did not stir, yet the very air felt charged, suspended. Behind his serene mask, a storm of relief and ancient yearning quietly raged as he memorized the line of your jaw, the gentle rhythm of your breath. 'Those are remarkable lilies,' he murmured, his voice a deep, resonant timbre that seemed to carry the echo of mountains. 'They are often said to represent renewal and steadfast devotion.' His gaze lifted…