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Chapter Text

"The Duke calls for you, your grace." Her lady in waiting Keqing told her.

Lumine frowned hearing those words. He rarely called for her, even when they'd greet each other in the halls they barely met gazes and now he's calling for her during her afternoon tea?

"Did something happen?" She asked, her eyebrows furrowing deeper and the wrinkle on her forehead was very much evident now. She's nervous.

"I haven't heard of any commotion, Duchess. I'm afraid this might be one of his Grace's whims." Keqing replied, honest as she's always been and kept her gaze lowered.

"What to do?" Lumine got up and examined her reflection. She looks well enough for a Duchess in her green afternoon dress but she were to meet the duke so she signalled for Keqing who perked up from her spot. "Dress me in something else."

Keqing understood her assignment and brought out one of Lumine's best dresses, courtesy of the Duke and began dressing the Duchess in it. Retouching her makeup and fixing the jewels in her hair swiftly.

"I've no idea why he's calling for me but do you think it has anything to do with the rumours?" Lumine gulped.

"Do you mean the rumours of him and the Baroness?" Keqing asked, walking behind the Duchess who tried not to run in her tracks.

"If he wants a divorce then it would be perfectly fine to just send me a letter or have a maid to deliver the news." Lumine bit the inside of her cheeks, something she does when she is worried and she wondered if one day she would draw blood. "I wouldn't throw a fit about him having mistresses either."

"The Baroness was known to be eyeing the Duke since her debut into society, surely she wouldn't be too shameless to openly flirt with a married man." Keqing tried easing the nerves of her Lady but it was to no avail.

Lumine's heart was pounding. She was worried for her safety and comfort. She's adjusted well into her life as a Duchess, leaving the years of abuse and neglect in that horrible castle behind her. She can't afford to have all this taken away now.

She can bear the humiliation of being a Duchess who isn't loved by her husband. Just don't throw her back into that castle to rot again.

"I don't care if he even brings 10 women into my chambers and bed them while I watched," Lumine gritted her teeth. "I need the title of the Duchess and to remain here."

Keqing understood then and stayed quiet, hoping for the best as their stroll through the halls ended and she moved to open the door. Clearing her throat to announce their arrival.

"Her Grace, the Duchess, is now entering."

The door opened. Lumine walked in wearily but she still kept her composure, refusing to appear weak under the intense gaze of her husband. She refused to look weak to anyone, even to him. Being small was a feeling she hated the most in the world.

"You called for me. Why?"

"I don't even get a greeting, I see." Childe grinned sarcastically.

"Greetings." Lumine clicked her tongue. "You asked for me. Why?"

Childe paused, turning his gaze towards her and frowned. "You're nervous," his amusement couldn't be concealed behind his feigned concern for her. "Why?"

"I'm quite sure I asked you first, your Grace." Lumine.

Childe gestured for Keqing to leave and the maid did as she was told without another word, now it was only them in his study and the anticipation was killing her. Lumine just wanted to get it over with. If she was being thrown out then he might as well just do it already and not torture her like this.

"No need to be so hostile toward me, Duchess. I'm your husband."

Lumine's eye twitched. "My apologies, I'm just very eager to hear whatever his Grace has to say."

Childe bit his lip to bit back a giant grin. He could see how her hand was twitching, she was fighting the urge to maybe punch him or hit something from frustration and her very forced smile was a sight to see.

But he took pity on her.

Deciding to stop prolonging her curiosity and delivering the news.

"I'm renewing our contract."

Lumine let out a defeated sigh. Here it is, she really was being thrown out but she's not going back to that place.

"I'll be a commoner or a maid for Archons' sake just don't escort me back to the palace." Lumine pleaded, she fell on her knees as she got tired of fighting their wobbling and buckling. "I can disappear from your life forever and you'd never see my face again, just don't bring me back."

Childe was at loss for words, he did not expect her to react like that and what even is she saying about being a commoner and disappearing?

"You seem to have made such terrible assumptions, Duchess. I'm renewing our contract." Childe got up and approached her, lifting her chin with his fingers so he can keep her eyes on him. "I'm renewing it so that you'll be forced to stay with me forever. Seeing as you seem to be very hesitant to go back to your Kingdom then you'll have no choice to sign it, yes?"

Lumine could feel it. The intensity of his gaze and his grip on her chin. He was looking at her like she was something he now owned and intended to break.

But so far, her life as a Duchess has been the best in all her existence. As long as she'll no longer be beaten, starved and abandoned then she can bear whatever her husband decides to do to her.

All for her survival.

Lumine groaned from the pain on her right hip. She was still yet to recover from the injuries she received from the first concubine. It's no surprise given as her young body was extremely malnourished and so - her recovery is slowed.

She heard the door open and closed, lazily getting up to watch a maid put a tray of food down at the foot of her bed and leave without another word. Lumine forced herself up to stare at the tray.

Stale bread and spoiled soup again. They didn't even have the decency to give her water this time. She fought the urge to throw it and channel her anger into the innocent tray of. . .rubbish.

She can't even call it food.

If she were to recover, she can't starve herself. So with weak and skinny arms, she reached out to the stale bread and bit down, gagging at the smell and the moulds she found but this was better than nothing so she continued feasting on the food she was served.

When she was finished, she had to lie down to keep herself from throwing up.

She stared at her dusty ceiling and wondered.

"How long do I have to endure all this?"

She stayed there, staring at the ceiling, and her thoughts drifted to a life she'll probably never have. When she becomes of age, she'll leave and never come back. She'd have a garden and plan pretty flowers she knew her brother would've loved.

She'd eat actual food and would never have another fist hit her.

She'd spread her beautiful yet tired wings and fly away from this place.

All her daydreaming was interrupted when the door opened again and a maid entered. It was common courtesy to announce your arrival and to ask permission to enter a royal's chambers, but they never even treated her as royalty.

"The King requests an audience with you." The maid said, not even calling her her proper title, and with no sign of manners at that.

Lumine got up and nodded, knowing she would have to get ready on her own. Maids would occasionally help her, but they only did it so they can pull on her hair a little stronger than normal or scrub her body harsher that they should.

Lumine pitied them in a way.

They were born at the end of the class system and so they direct their frustration at a poor, powerless princess so they can feel better about themselves. They could never dream of being part of nobility or royals, so they take it out on the unfortunate abandoned princess.

Lumine entered the throne room with her head feeling light. She wanted to throw up. Be it from the rubbish she ate or the nerves from being called so suddenly by her useless Father who neglected her.

"Why have you called me here, Father?" Lumine forced that word out her mouth. To call such a person her Father. What a joke.

"My dearest daughter, Lumine. My bright child, I deliver you good news."

Lumine frowned. The only good news he could possibly deliver her was a death sentence so she can finally escape such a cruel life, but in his hand is a letter and she worried for the contents.

"The Duke of Snezhnaya asked for your hand in marriage."

Lumine blinked in surprise- is this it? Her token out of this hellhole?

"I'd like to accept." Lumine quickly answered, a genuine smile finally making tis way to her features that were very much skinny and she looked as if her skin was clinging to her bones. Even upon seeing this , the King only continued to smile kindly at her as if he's cherished her all this time.

"Very well, we'll send a letter accepting." The King nodded.

"How very fitting," The Queen finally spoke from beside the king. "The stain of the royal family is off to marry the Monster Duke."

Monster Duke?

Childe was pissed. He'd never disobey the Queen and she knew that, why did she have him send a marriage request to the 13th Princess? Sure, he understood it was because she was powerless and would not impact his power but was good enough to be with him given her royal title but

Marriage?

He never even considered it. A marriage life was not for him and he didn't need a wife to be of hindrance in his duties. His only purpose in life was to be of use to the Tsaritsa until his dying breath.

But this was the task she assigned to him. He couldn't refuse.

But there is one thing he could do however. . .

"How may I be of any service to the Duke?" Zhongli sat in the couch asked, he had his hands occupied with a teacup and a saucer.

He's been summoned the the Duchy for a contract that the Duke needs to be drawn with utmost confidentiality and there was only one man in all of Teyvat who could offer such services. Every secret was kept under wraps and every contract remained unbroken under the services of a travelling scholar who called himself "Zhongli".

"I need you to make a contract for me and my future wife." Childe.

"What are the terms and conditions?"

"It's a political marriage, what else would you think my terms and conditions are?"

Childe's bright blue eyes grew dark under the curtain of his rather long lashes as he peered through them to glare at the man sat in front of him. Zhongli knew exactly what he meant but the man was finding it entertaining to have him talk about his wants and needs out of his marriage.

"She might be quite a beauty, is she not a princess like the rumors suggest?" Zhongli smirked. "Are you sure you only want a once-a-month arrangement for bed sharing?"

Childe scoffed. "I don't long for an heir nor am I too busy to indulge in my sexual desires to lust after my wife. I can get any woman I want in this damned Empire."

"I'm sure you can, your Grace. But I will make it so you can renew the terms any day you wish for it to change. Never say never."

Childe dismissed him after that. Not having it in him to continue bantering with the man and just ending their conversation as soon as it started. He had so much to worry about, along with the marriage- the Tsaritsa gave him another task and that was to get in touch with the Baron.

It was no secret that the Baron has been partaking in illegal business such as supporting the slave market but he had a lot of connections and the Tsaritsa wanted to know what he knows.

"Alright then," Childe laid back and let out a deep sigh, thinking of the princess he'll be married to. He hasn't even seen her face and he already didn't like her. "A princess, huh?"

If she were to be beautiful and kind, he can just intimidate her enough to make her give in to his conditions and she'll be bound by the contract but if she were to be one of those spoiled royals then he'd need to be harsher than he would like.

But all should go well if she would just sign the contract.

The day of the wedding quickly arrived. Lumine is dressed in a beautiful white gown which is honestly the most beautiful thing she had put on, but even the gorgeous tailoring of it couldn't hide her skinny form.

Her cheeks her hallowed and no amount of makeup could hide her bones sharpening her features. Her bruises are almost healed, the King made sure to care for her enough that no evidence would be seen on her.

The Kingdom would bear witness to her wedding and he can't afford words of her treatment to get out. Specially with her lineage, and her Mother's influence over the people of their Kingdom when she was still alive.

"You look like an actual person now, your highness." One of the maids sniggered.

"I'm sure his Grace would be delighted to know you're not too unsightly." Another one added.

Lumine kept quiet. She's so close. She's just an arm's reach away from a new life and she can finally escape. She knows she was being married to the Duke because he needed someone of high status to strengthen his influence but someone powerless enough to not threaten his power.

And she can play the role of an obedient wife. She can kneel down or take her clothes off everyday if it meant living better than she have all her life.

Another maid came in, holding a bouquet of flowers that were beautifully white with hints of blue and gold and Lumine adored them. "Everything is ready, the wedding should take place now."

Well, here goes nothing.

***

Childe stood at the end of the aisle with his face devoid of expression. He needn't fake his delight at this whole arrangement for everyone knew what or who he was and this was to be the first time he's seen his wife.

He occupied himself with the Baron that he was almost late to his wedding, he had his butler take care of the necessary arrangements and busied himself with other matters.

And then she walked in, even from a few feet away he would see it- her fragile form holding a bouquet and walking slowly down the red carpet with her face hidden under a thin veil. Childe narrowed his eyes at that and wondered if her Highness being sickly was true.

Why else could someone of royalty look so sickly and skinny, as if she had been abandoned?

Lumine finished making her way down the aisle and now stood in front of her husband-to-be and even under the veil she could tell he was handsome. But she couldn't get her hopes up.

He was given the title of a Monster because that's what he is and no matter how beautiful of a sight he is, Lumine can't lose her sensibility now. She's about to be married off to him and she can only wish his treatment of her would be better.

Hope is a luxury she can't afford but maybe, just maybe, her life will finally change and fate will guarantee her kindness this time around.

Chapter Text

The wedding was a blur, Lumine could barely remember the feeling of someone's lips on hers and now she's being tended to by maids she has never seen before. They treated her like a proper noble unlike the old maids and she supposed it's because they were of the Duke's.

She stared at herself in the mirror and found it funny how they expect her to have her first night with the Duke. She's far too skinny and weak to even lift the bouquet earlier but now they expect her to pleasure her husband?

She supposed she has to, it's her duty as the now Duchess of Snezhnaya to provide the duke an heir to succeed him but she's not even sure if she's able to procreate after her body's been beaten countless times.

"What a joke." She bitterly spat at the nightgown they dressed her in, it was short enough to show her legs and thin straps failed to hide her collarbones and shoulders. She looked like pieces of twigs glued together. Who would lust after such a thing?

Lumine made her way over to the bed and the wedding began taking its toll. She was woken up rudely so early in the morning and was tended to for hours so she would look less like a dying corpse and more of a princess for the wedding, so she was tired.

Her lids grew tired as well, and she found comfort in the soft bed. It was softer than anything she's ever touched and she grinned at the thought she would no longer sleep in a bed that resembled the floor with how stiff it was.

And she let the silence lull her to sleep. She drifted off with a smile and forgot completely about the Duke who's supposed to come in the chambers to share a first night with her.

Childe entered hesitantly. He was unsure what to expect from the princess- no, she was a duchess now. They can't possibly expect her to bed such a frail- looking woman, right?

Nevertheless, he entered and found the room to be completely silent. He would have guessed it to be empty had he not caught sight of her golden hair sprawled all over his bed. He carefully approached her and chuckled.

The girl had slept on his bed uninvited and is shamelessly hogging his blanket and pillows. She looked peaceful, snoring quietly and Childe frowned at her exposed shoulders. They look like they could cut him with how evident her bone poking out was.

"You really are something." Childe. "Very well then. You can rest for tonight and I'll bring up the contract tomorrow."

Lumine woke up feeling refreshed, she felt like she slept on clouds and got up to find she was still in the Duke's chambers. She looked around and found the room empty, it was just her and she worried about the Duke.

She was supposed to have her first night with him and she slept through it like an idiot! What if he got mad? Surely if he was he would've woken her up, but she- there was no time to panic when a maid came in.

"I'm sorry for coming in without notice, your Grace but I thought you were still asleep," the maid lowered her head. "Would you like me to help you get ready for breakfast? His Grace is waiting in the dining hall."

Lumine quickly got up. "Yes please, make it quick. Wouldn't want his Grace to wait too long." she told the maid who did as she was told and Lumine quickly made her way to the dining hall to find Childe quietly enjoying his breakfast.

"Good Morning, Duchess." He greeted her casually, as if they had been married for years.

"G-Good Morning." Lumine gulped, hesitating to sit down until he gestured for her to do so.

"You must be tired still, please eat and don't mind me." Childe smiled. "We have matters to discuss after breakfast."

Lumine bit the inside of her cheeks nodded. Reaching for the utensils and she began forcing her breakfast down her throat. They were good and she's never had something so delicious but she was too nervous to even stomach anything.

He didn't seem mad, but he said they had to discuss something? What is it?

After breakfast, she was led to his study and she sat on the couch stiffly. Childe could evidently see her hesitance, she's on her guard and perhaps she had the right to be- she married a monster after all.

"I'd like for you to sign a contract." Childe then presented a piece of paper to her, sliding it on the table to hand it off to her and she quickly grabbed it, scanning the contents with her eyes and a smile was quick to appear on her face.

Childe carefully gauged her reaction, it was peculiar finding her to be so happy at the odd arrangement he's drawn up for their married life. She had on a wide grin now and if Childe didn't notice it before- he can clearly see how beautiful she is now.

Sure, she's skinny and still looks rather sickly, but her beauty was evident. Her hair was cut short to hide the dried and dead ends of her hair yet a few strands remained long to frame her face, and her golden eyes matched her hair but they shone every time they hit the light and her cheeks were dusted with a faint hue of red.

Had she had a few more meat in her bones, she'd surely be a sight to see.

But enough of her looks- no matter how pretty she is, Childe can't offer her his favour or affection. She can ask for all the riches he can provide, but love is not something he can give.

"This is wonderful!" Lumine exclaimed.

The contract briefly stated that she were to fulfil her rightful duties as a Duchess, which is managing the Duchy's finances, handling the staff and providing an heir while not meddling with her husband's affairs. Should he bed another woman, she wasn't to say anything, and she's of liberty to have mistresses herself.

They were only to be a married couple on paper, but they should keep up appearances in public events or settings.

"Should I be offended that you seem to be benefitting from this contract more than I?"

Lumine put the paper down and bit the inside of her cheeks with a nervous chuckle. She couldn't help her happiness, and so she showed her emotions freely like that.

"I'm gonna be honest. I don't expect much from this marriage, I only wish to live happily." Lumine told him with a strained smile.

Childe carefully studied her. Her words suggested that she have not led a happy life until now, but she seemed to be a cherished princess. The King's words kept coming back to him, and he even asked for a hefty dowry, given that she was supposed to be his favourite daughter.

"Can I add a few of my terms then?" Lumine asked.

"Let me hear them."

"You must never raise your hand at me. You're allowed to be mad and yell, but you're never allowed to hurt me."

Now she had his full and undivided attention.

Why else would someone ask that you never hurt them under any condition? Of course, if they've been hurt countless times before.

It seems there is more to this pretty princess that he initially thought.

"Consider those terms accepted." Childe smirked.

This was unexpectedly entertaining.

"Then I'll sign this now."

"Great, for your first duty as the Duchess, you must accompany me to the Baron's banquet."

"The baron?" Lumine wasn't given proper education and her etiquette is lacking- and yet she's already expected to debut into high society, what is she to do now?

"I'll give you a week to prepare. Tell me butler, Viktor, if you need anything. He'll see it done."

After signing her name, Lumine left the study to take a tour around the Duchy, and she found it beautiful. The servants greeted her warmly as she walked by, and she enjoyed her freedom to walk around. Not confined to a dusty, old room where silence and darkness is her only friend.

But nevermind of the life she left behind- she only has a week to prepare for the banquet, and she has to do well if she doesn't want that contract torn and her thrown back to the palace.

"Alright Lumine, you've got this." She told herself with a determined nod. "Now where is the butler?"

A week came by swiftly and Lumine's dressed in a gorgeous black gown. The dress was rushed into making by the talented Madame Ningguang who paid her a visit a day after signing the contract and took her measurements.

Of course, she made her displeasure about the short notice known, but the Duke silenced her complaints with the promise of a rather large compensation for having her make a dress in haste.

And where money is the topic, Madame Ningguang is rather friendly.

"You look divine, your Grace." One of the maids tending to her claimed, Lumine smiled at the compliment. The treatment was a stark contrast she's received before.

"Shall I use the Lily clips or the Roses for your hair accessories, Duchess?"

Lumine stared at her reflection in the mirror. She remained skinny, but her cheeks weren't as hollowed as before and she looked healthier. She now stood with more weight, less pale, and her bruises long faded into nothing in the week she's been eating and sleeping well.

"Use the roses."

"As you wish, your Grace."

Lumine walked down the stairs to be greeted by her husband dressed in clothes that surprisingly matched hers. He was dressed in black with gold accents and his hand had been slicked back, he looked handsome.

He offered his hand for her to take, and she gladly accepted, hoping her one week of studying etiquette wouldn't fail her so early in the evening.

"You look well these days, Duchess."

"The Duchy's been treating me well, your Grace."

"I'm your husband. Drop the formalities."

"I'm afraid I can't, your Grace."

"Why not? Call me by my name. That's an order."

"C- Childe." She tested his name in her tongue and she found it foreign.

"That's not my real name, but it will do. Are you ready?"

"What exactly do you expect of me tonight?"

"I need you to make friends with the Baroness. Can you do that for me, pretty girl?"

Lumine couldn't answer right away because the nickname caught her off guard. Why is he being so casual and familiar as to give her a nickname, and "pretty girl" at that?

"Please just call me by my name as well."

"I'll do as I please."

Lumine was quick to purse her lips. Right, she holds no power over this man. He'll do as he please and he's at perfect liberty to do so.

"I'll try my best at the banquet."

"I trust you'll do well. Let's go then, high society awaits."

Chapter Text

The couple arrived at the banquet and they instantly had everyone's eyes on them. It was the princess' first appearance in high society and, well, her husband is quite well-known for all the wrong reasons.

The Baron made his way through the crowd to happily greet them. "Duke, Duchess! Glad you both could make it!"

Childe took a moment to accept the hand he offered and if the Baron found displeasure in it, he didn't make it known when he happily shook the Duke's hand with a wide grin. He moved to offer a kiss to the Duchess' hand, but Lumine didn't fancy a random man touching her, so she was quick to come up with something.

"It's a lovely night and I'm not sure if we can stay long, best I go greet the other noble ladies."

Childe watched her walk away with a smirk, she was good at avoiding people and making excuses and he took note of that.

Lumine could feel their prying eyes on her. She's a princess turned Duchess and no one's seen her face or heard of her name before- everyone is curious. Before any of them could approach her, she luckily found the Baroness right away.

"Baroness, lovely party, how are we faring these days?"

According to what Lumine learned: Baroness Leone is a difficult person to be close to. She was dearly loved by her parents and spoilt rotten, she also throws parties every month to show off their riches and she treats her maids poorly.

"My, Duchess, you made it!"

"The interior is amazing, everything looks extremely expensive and my, is that the Ocean's Heart?" Lumine's eyes darted to the bright blue necklace that the Baroness wore proudly on her neck.

It's easy to flatter someone who liked to parade around showing off their wealth, and that is to compliment how rich they are and point out anything expensive they owned.

"You've got a good eye, your Grace. Yes it is."

"Oh wow, isn't that supposed to cost an entire country? The Baron must truly treasure you." Lumine was briefly taught of the Baron's illegal affairs, but there's no need to bring it up now, she needs to be in the Baroness' good graces.

"I suppose he does, but enough of me, how is married life treating you?"

Lumine cast her eyes down and displayed a soft smile on her features. "Really well, my husband has been nothing but kind and I love the Duchy." She's not lying, she has been treated well and she already loves her life as a Duchess.

Not sure about the kind part, however.

Before their conversation could progress, the music changed and the crowd divided into pairs. Lumine searched the crowd and gulped, she didn't know how to dance and that's impossible for a princess.

She looked down at her gown and wondered if she can find some way to have her feet injured or have her dress ruined by something so she can slip away and hide in a powder room until the dancing dies down.

"Duchess, pleasure to be of acquaintance, I'm Viscount Terron." A hand is offered, and Lumine lifted her eyes to frown at the stranger grinning widely at her. "Would you care for a dance?"

He was good-looking, but he's no match for the Duke. Lumine thought.

Wait- did she just compare this man to her husband and claimed her husband looked better? She must be dazed from hunger, she skipped breakfast and Lunch to fit into the corset they prepared for her.

She could barely breathe.

"I'm afraid I'm not feeling well all of a sudden-" Before she can finish her excuse, she felt someone's arm wrap around her waist and the familiar presence of her husband settled on her side.

"I'm afraid I'm the only one my wife will be dancing with tonight."

And he pulled her away, leading her to the dance floor, and she felt helpless.

"Your Grace, I regret to tell you that I can't dance."

Childe frowned. "Were you too sickly to even take dancing lessons?"

Lumine bit the inside of her cheeks. "You can say that."

"Don't worry, pretty girl. I'll take care of you."

Those words made a shiver run down Lumine's spine, something about the glint in his eyes and dangerous smirk had her worried. She wasn't even made aware of his plan with the Baroness, he just told her to befriend the woman and now he's gonna dance with a princess who just learned etiquette for a week.

"I can pretend to injure my foot. I'm sure the Duchy's reputation wouldn't be put at stake if a Duchess refuse to partake in the dancing."

But he was having none of it. Lumine's eye twitched when she realized he led them to the middle of the dance floor and now even more eyes are glued on her.

Lumine gets the feeling that he's toying with her.

But he's left her alone the week she was preparing, why is he being so annoying now?

"Relax. Don't you trust me?"

Lumine struggled to answer, she just silently slipped her hand in his when he offered it with a slight bow, and ignored the way his massive hand gripped her waist. She's never felt so small under his tall stature and intimidating gaze.

"Trust has nothing to do with this, your Grace. There is no need to dance. The Baroness is chattering away near the table, I could've continued our conversation." Lumine tried to meet his eyes but it was hard, her neck would grow tired and so she kept her eyes on his chest.

Then he began moving, leading her as he moved along the music, and with her small and light figure- it was easy. Instead of looking like a doll being dragged around, she actually appeared to be in sync with the Duke as they danced in the middle of the crowd.

"This is our first dance as a married couple."

That was of no significance to anything she said.

"Why do I have be friends with the Baroness?"

"I need you in her good graces, enough to be invited to a tea party." Childe.

"I see, why again?" Lumine.

"You ask too many questions, pretty girl."

Lumine is already hating the nickname.

"Am I not allowed to ask?"

"Of course you are. But you're not guaranteed an answer every time."

Lumine never knew talking to a person could feel so irritating. She knows she's not allowed to bear any ill intent toward this man who basically saved her, but everything about him was ticking her off.

His eyes that looked at her like she was something he found entertaining, his smirk that seemed to be mocking her and his responses and stupid nickname and stupid hair and-

"Glare any stronger and you'd burn a hole in me. No worries, song's done, go on and continue your assignment."

Lumine's jaw clenched. She's been beat and starved, but a simple sentence from a man managed to irritate her to her very core. Nevermind him, she retrieved her hand and began walking away to approach the Baroness again.

She may not have zero social skills, having been locked up all of her life, but she can surely spout whatever compliment she can come up with at the top of her head.

The night finally ended and Lumine's back on the carriage home. She sat across the Duke who was kind enough to lend his coat to shield her from the cold and she struggled to try and not breathe in his scent.

It was a difficult task when his scent was too strong and clung to his coat that it was invading her senses. Does he use perfume?

"You did well." Childe complimented her.

"Thank you." Was all she could say.

"All that's left to do is attend a tea party and commit to memory every single gossip the noble ladies would talk about."

"Why bother? You can buy information from intelligence guilds, and rumours could be heard everywhere?"

"There's a specific one I'm looking for."

Lumine didn't understand. This man in front of her was appearing more and more of a puzzle to her, a really annoying one at that, and she's only known him for over a week.

"Can I know what it is?" Lumine asked hesitantly, her eyes darting around the carriage to ignore his eyes, and he smirked at that. He liked how she squirmed under his gaze, she's like a mouse. He is aware of his reputation and how others would tremble under his gaze but he found her squirming because of him somewhat special.

"You'll know when you hear it."

She should've known she wouldn't get a proper answer. Not from him, anyway.

Chapter Text

Lumine used the time she had to prepare for the tea party studying the nobles, she knew the basics to not embarrass herself and not make her reputation plummet but she needed more than the basic.

She enjoyed it. Even though it's only about nobles, she's glad to have the freedom to learn and read. She knew of the basics of course, before her hell started she actually lived like a normal princess.

She was no means treasured dearly but she wasn't neglected either, but when her brother died. . .everything changed.

"Duchess, we'll help you get ready for the tea party now." A maid interrupted her thoughts and Lumine smiled kindly at her, she knows she should pick a lady-in-waiting but she's unsure who to trust just yet.

"Thank you."

"I see you're ready to leave." The Duke standing at the end of the staircase greeted, Lumine frowned, she hasn't seen him since that night they got home from the banquet and now he's gonna see her off?

"I am. . ." Lumine really didn't understand him. He keeps appearing out of nowhere just when she thinks she's comfortably left alone.

"You look well." He commented. Lumine remained quiet, accepting the hand he offered and he continued holding onto her as they walked past the line of staff and through the threshold of the Duchy. "You don't look like you could snap any moment."

Lumine knows he knows. Maybe not  the exact details but he can't possible be daft- Lumine didn't bother hiding the signs and a person need only to read into them right to realize she was no sickly princess.

"All thanks to the Duke's kindness." Lumine forced those words out her mouth. She hasn't known kindness in so long but she could tell what he gave her was the bare minimum, still she has to be grateful.

"My, such flattering words from such a pretty mouth." Lumine felt something stir in her, she cast her eyes down avoiding his gaze. She hasn't seen him in a while that she forgot how predatory his gaze would feel on her.

Lumine stayed quiet until they reached the carriage and accepted his assistance to enter the carriage and he didn't close the door right away. She blinked at him curiously, he stayed there outside the carriage smirking at her.

"I know you won't disappoint me, pretty girl."

Lumine felt something stir in her again. Again with that stupid nickname.

"I better go before I am late to the tea party." Lumine awkwardly avoided his gaze and he chuckled, closing the carriage door and stepping back to nod at the coachman who began moving the carriage along.

Inside is Lumine who slumped on the comfortably-cushioned seat withy a huff. "He shakes me to my very core." She groaned. But it's not like she can escape him when they're bound by marriage and it's thanks to him she's living well.

Let's just get this tea party over with.

Lumine arrived and was greeted warmly by the other noble ladies, glad she can recognize them. She greeted them by their names, and they seemed flattered and proud to have the princess turned Duchess know their names.

"Your Grace, what a pleasure to have you join us." The Baroness greeted her and on her neck displayed proudly still is the Ocean's heart.

Lumine smiled. "The pleasure is all mine. My, what a luxurious venue. I would have believed you if you told me we are in the Imperial Palace's gardens."

Which is a lie, Lumine doesn't know what the garden looks like but this one isn't too bad. Flowers are well-maintained and every piece of furniture glowed under the sunlight. 

"Oh you make me embarrassed," The Baroness fanned herself. "Surely the Imperial Palace's garden could top my humble venue."

Humble? 

Nothing was humble about the gold-lined teacup sets she had prepared and with her excessive outfit, she looked like she just plucked everything that was shining in her closet and threw them on.

"I best go greet the other ladie3s, but it truly is an honour to have you join us."

Lumine watched her leave and approach the other noble ladies, Lumine took a seat randomly and found herself next to a girl with lavender hair that was kept in long pigtails. She had on a stoic expression, her mouth in a thin line as she watched the other ladies mingle.

Lumine would have left her alone, she seemed like she wanted to be left alone but her mission was to gather information which she still doesn't know exactly what to look out for. So she smiled kindly at the girl.

"I see I'm not the only one not too fond of social gatherings."

The Lady next to her turned with her eyes slightly widened. "Duchess, a pleasure to meet you, my name is Keqing."

Lumine raised a brow, her poker face was long gone and she now had on a comforting aura around her. Just like the other nobles, this Lady appears to want to be in her good graces but something is different about her.

"Keqing. . .you don't seem to enjoy being here, why come?"

The girl remained smiling, despite being called out and questioned. "Doesn't the same go for her Grace?"

Lumine's guess is right. This girl. . .they're quite similar.

"I'm here for my survival, what brings you here, Keqing?"

"I would say the same."

Lumine grinned widely now. "I think you and I are gonna get along very well."

"I sure hope so. Being on good terms with the Duchess married to such a powerful Duke is like winning the lottery in today's society." 

Lumine admired the honesty but had to time to continue their conversation when the tea party had officially started.

The tea party progressed normally and it was almost uneventful. She's only glad the food was worth the luxury spent on it that she kept herself grounded with the delicious treats. She wanted more time to chat with Keqing but all opportunities seemed to have escaped from her clutches.

She'll just send a personal invite to drink tea together some other time.

And the tea party ended. Now the ladies are being escorted to their carriages, Lumine felt dejected. She heard plenty of rumours but none of them felt crucial at all, just common rumours about who was seen with whom.

They didn't feel like the specific one she should be looking for, and she promised to not come back empty-handed. Will the Duke punish her for failing? She can take any punishment but she feared her life of comfort might be stripped away from her.

She can't afford to go back to hell when she finally experienced living life again. She just might go mad.

Then she heard two giggling ladies near her. 

"I can't believe she actually still have the courage to brandish her wealth with the Duke being rumoured to get a few slaves pregnant."

That made Lumine's ear ring.

That's it.

The specific rumour she was looking for, and she grinned from ear-to-ear as she got on her carriage. Those two ladies acted like such close friends with the Baroness, but the moment they were out of sight, they start to bad mouth the Lady.

All Nobles are the same.

Lumine felt exhausted but she at least did her mission right.

She supposed she can nap on the way home.

Lumine woke up with the feeling of being lightly swayed around and a strong familiar scent stirred her awake, she tried to move but found her space is limited and her limbs are slack.

She parted her eyes and found her husband's familiar face smiling down at her, is- is he carrying her?

"The mission I gave seemed to have taken its toll on my Wife. My apologies. I'll carry you to your room to rest."

Lumine only nodded, not having it in her to argue and she remembered the rumour she heard before leaving- the one he tasked her to obtain.

"The rumour-"

Childe shushed her. "We can talk tomorrow at breakfast. Rest for now or you might get sick from overworking yourself."

How funny, isn't he the one who gave her such tasks without giving her enough information so she had to work extra hard?

Whatever. Lumine closed her eyes and let the faint sound of someone's heartbeat lull her to sleep. By the time Childe reached her bedroom, she was quietly snoring, and he set her down on the soft mattress.

He was gonna set her down and leave right away to continue his work but seeing her there, her clothes looked uncomfortable and he didn't want to call on the maids in case they wake her up. Instead he took her clothes off himself.

Careful to loosen her corset strings slowly to not jerk her awake. He threw it aside once he's got it off her and saw the visible relief on Lumine's face. He chuckled softly and proceeded to strip the numerous layers of clothes a noble lady's required to wear.

It was a pain and he cursed under his breath many times but once she's stripped to only her chemise, he couldn't take his eyes off her. She looked too perfect in the color white.

She was already beautiful on their wedding day when she had herself narrowed to the bones, but right now she looked healthy having gained more weight and Childe had to look away before he could finish trailing his eyes down her entirety.

Has he been abstinent? Why is he feeling stirred over his sleeping wife?

He put her clothes away properly before leaving the room, sparing her sleeping figure one more glance before returning to his office. Instead of returning to do his work however, he was in deep thought.

Why was he so attracted to her?

Ignoring her all these weeks wasn't easy. Her soft smile appeared in every document he had to sign, her sandy blonde hair would always appear in the corner of his sight and her golden eyes would stare back at him in the mirror.

He left her alone because she felt most comfortable that way but he can't help but feel drawn to her. 

Is it because she looked too pure? Too innocent? She looked like something he could not dare afford having aside all the riches he accumulated and that must be why he is so drawn to her.

She looks like a perfect white canvas, devoid of any dirt while he's a monster covered in blood from head-to-toe. He felt like devouring her.

These are dangerous thoughts, Ajax. She's already scared of you, don't give her a reason to hate you as well.

But a gravelly voice from deep inside him is convincing him that any emotion is fine as long as she felt it for him. 

Chapter Text

The following morning, Lumine woke up in her comfortable bed, feeling well-rested. She sat there staring blankly into nowhere as she tried to recall yesterday's events. Ignoring the maids who entered, greeting her good morning and preparing the basic of water for her to wash her face in.

"Good Morning, Duchess. The Duke patiently waits for you to have breakfast together."

A sense of déjà vu washes over Lumine as she forces her senses awake, splashing water on her face and she nodded. She can't really remember anything after falling asleep in the carriage. She guessed the maids put her in her room and changed her clothes.

"Help me get ready then." She instructed them and they did as told, after a few minutes, Lumine entered the dining room in a pale blue dress and her hair let down.

She can't really tie it up if she wanted to, often, maids would just pin it with sparkling jewels to style.

"Good Morning, Wife." Childe greeted her right away, startling her as she only took one footstep in the room when he spoke up. She frowned at the title he called her.

"Good Morning, Duke." Lumine made a point to call him by an entirely different title, but instead of finding it unpleasant, he smirked. He found it absolutely amusing how she's so helpless yet so defiant against him.

"Seeing as you're wide awake, you can tell me your findings now, I assume?" Childe asked, beginning to cut through his steak. Lumine frowned, breakfast is the most important meal of the day but steak for breakfast?

She's never had it and it looked a bit to heavy for her.

"On my way out, I heard two ladies giggling amongst themselves, something about the baron getting a few slaves pregnant." Lumine found the Baron disgusting. To be involved in slave trading is already a crime punishable by death for it is direct disobedience to his Majesty but to also indulge himself with them?

As expected, humans are truly the worse. Lumine always thought.

"Now, that is interesting." Child grinned, setting his cutleries down and folds his hands under his chin. Propping his elbows on the table, he grinned wickedly at her. She could barely swallow the piece of egg in her mouth. "Say, Wife."

"If you could, what punishment would you grant the Baron?"

Lumine put her own knife and fork down. He's trying to read her again and this time he's doing it by questioning her sense of justice. 

Childe already knows so much yet so little about her.

But if he guessed her to be an angel. . .he's wrong. She's lived her life in hell, she's seen and experienced the worst the world probably had to offer. She's not gonna grant mercy to those who did wrong.

Why should she who did nothing wrong be punished so cruelly while those like the Baron get off so easy? Execution? Such a kind punishment to such a crime, what did she ever do to anyone to be abused?

"Death is too kind. I'd say tear his limbs little by little until he eventually dies from pain or bleeds out." Lumine answered with a small smile and proceeds to eat, acting normal when she felt like throwing up.

She said all that but the image playing in her head made her stomach turn.

"I see." Childe responded, his grin growing wider and he didn't even bat an eye at her cruel response. "My Wife sure is creative."

"Don't you mean cruel?" Lumine asked. 

"How is it cruel to punish those who did wrong? They had it coming."

She agreed but stayed silent. Hoping time could pass by quicker or he'd be called for an urgent matter so she can run back to her room and empty her stomach in disgust.

In some degree she knows it's wrong. To want revenge, they say seeking it would not make you any better than those who harmed you but a small part of Lumine is screaming at her. Yearning for them to feel her pain the same way she did.

"Why should we forgive when we didn't deserve all of it?" The voice would scream with its voice dripping with poison.

And she's no saint to forgive and forget so easily.

"You're contemplating something." Childe interrupted her thoughts, much to her dismay. She didn't want him provoking her any longer, it's too early. "Share it with your husband, will you?"

Lumine lets out a sigh. 

"Say people have wronged you, truly. Basically ruined you, but you survived, would you seek revenge or forgive and forget?"

"That's an easy one, pretty girl. Revenge."

"Why?"

"Why not? I'm already ruined, what more do I have to lose? Might as well drag them down with me, no?" Childe replied, picking up his knife and examining it, making Lumine's skin crawl. "Did that help you, dear Wife?"

"Yes." Lumine's decided she won't seek revenge. Hearing it from him, she realized she's nothing like him and her brother wouldn't have wanted a life of revenge for her.

Aether would've wanted me to be better than them.

Lumine didn't have to but she still felt like she had to so before breakfast ended he asked for his permission to invite someone over for tea, he gave the permission right away without even asking who and what for. 

She guessed it to be him returning the courtesy, she didn't bother asking him what use he would have for the rumour, and so he must have seen it fit for him to also leave her business alone.

So now here she is, sat across Keqing who came the day after she sent the invite. The girl is quick and very hungry to make connections. 

"I accepted the invite because it was from you." Honest as always.

"I'm well aware. I wanna know something," Lumine took a sip of her cooled tea. "What do you expect out of our involvement? After all, it's still my husband who wields all the power, why not approach him?"

Keqing smirks. "You must also be well aware that your husband is not a very approachable man. A reputation like that, no thank you. But his power is admirable, you're the closest I can get to him."

"You seem to know everything about everyone. You're a smart girl, you surely have gathered information on everyone for your own benefit." Lumine raised a brow.

"That I have." Keqing admitted proudly. She's not ashamed of her actions at all, knowing high society is cut-throat and will not take pity on those who wielded no power so if she wants her family to be given back its glory, she has to rise in status as well.

"Then work for me. Be my lady-in-waiting and I'll make sure to put you in the position you desperately reach out to." Lumine knew she might be bluffing, she only became a Duchess recently by pure luck and was not 'loved' by her husband by all means.

But if she play her cards right, she can fulfil such an expensive promise to Keqing and she can continue living her life comfortably.

Childe will give her assignments like before, she's predicting and she just needs to do it well. 

"I accept."

Keqing got up from her seat and knelt in front of Lumine, the Count's daughter lowering her head and accepting the hand Lumine offered. 

Lumine looked down on her, feeling power for the first time in her life flow through her. To have lived her life as a neglected princess, she's finally in a position to look down on people and it almost made her sick how much she loved the feeling.

"From this day forward: I devote my life, mind and everything to her Grace, the Duchess." Keqing began reciting her oath, gripping her hand lightly before placing a kiss on the back of it. "It's my absolute honour to serve you, your Grace."

"Don't make me regret this, Keqing."

The girl grinned. "I won't fail you."

***

Lumine couldn't hide it from Keqing, the girl was sharp and would have found out eventually, so she took it upon herself to reveal the truth to her lady-in-waiting herself. Keqing didn't bat an eye however, Lumine wonders why she attracts such peculiar people in her life.

"A contract, I understand." Keqing nods slowly, digesting the information without any problem. Her indifference bothers Lumine but she supposed it's better than being asked endless questions or having to forcefully calm down an overreacting Keqing.

"Yes and he occasionally gives me tasks to fulfil, I trust you'll help me with said tasks so that I may never get to know what happens when I fail." Lumine sighs.

"I'll make sure to serve you with the best of my abilities." 

"Now that that's out of the way, I need you to teach me etiquette."

"Teach you etiquette? From what I've seen, her Grace is well-capable?"

"I don't like talking about it or going into details but to clear it up, I wasn't raised as a dearly loved Princess. I was rushed to learn under 2 weeks. I need to be better than this."

"I'm afraid teaching others is not my specialty," Keqing lowered her head briefly before looking at Lumine again. "But I do know someone, Lady Ningguang is envied by other noble woman for her perfect etiquette and for being a perfect noble."

"How are you gonna get her to teach me?"

"I happen to know of her secret rendezvous with a travelling scholar, she'll surely want to hear my request." Keqing grinned.

Lumine is only glad she successfully got Keqing on her side.

Chapter Text

Lady Ningguang lived up to her reputation. The moment she exited the carriage and greeted Lumine, she intimidated the Duchess right away. 

Although bearing only the title of a Countess, she managed to make Lumine feel small. No matter if she was a just new to her title, Lumine was sure she would still cower under such intense gaze.

Ningguang seemed to be studying her, her sharp red eyes nitpicking every inch of Lumine in her head. The Lady was truly intimidating, and her grace when she exited the carriage amazed Lumine.

Had Keqing not nudged her lightly, she would have forgotten to greet Ningguang and/or breathe.

"Glad to have you accept the invitation, Lady Ningguang."

The Lady took a few seconds before returning the curtsy. "I wouldn't have come, had that vermin not threatened me."

Lady Ningguang's sharp glare didn't bother Keqing at all who only stared at her blankly. No sign of fear or guilt on the girl's face. 

"I would apologize for letting her resort to such methods but," Lumine grinned. "I happen to really need your help."

Ningguang did another quick scan of Lumine's stance. She seemed reserved, not lacking in the most basic manners, but also not as refined as a proper princess. She was beginning to find the whole arrangement interesting.

She had no intentions of involving herself with such a dangerous Duke, but she had no choice and who knows? Frequenting a visit to the Duchess might provide her some crucial information on the Duchy. She needs to play her cards right from here on out.

Ningguang decided on basic etiquette. Lumine wasn't lacking by any means but she aimed to polish the Duchess' manners, she is to be carefully monitored by everyone with such a high position and interesting husband. She needs to show them she has no flaw.

"You're a quick-learner." The Lady commented, a compliment disguised in such a casual sentence, which Lumine recognized.

"It's only because your Ladyship is teaching me, I'm truly honoured to have been giving this opportunity." Even if we basically threatened you into this. Lumine beamed.

Ningguang waved the compliment off. Way too used to being showered with such flattering words, she can tell there was sincerity in them, but she's grown immune to such frivolous things. 

"I then conclude our lesson for today, now may we discuss other matters?"

Lumine frowned, Keqing is currently not around to keep her grounded against such an intimidating figure. Is she going to be fine? Wait- her husband is known as a Monster Duke, she should be fine.

"What matters are you thinking, Lady Ningguang?"

Ningguang glanced around. Lumine's study room was luxurious, fitting for a Duchess and not a single thing was out of place. It's obvious she's not neglected and from how proper the staff of the Duchy acted around her- she also had proper authority.

Ningguang concluded that the rumours of her being forced into submission in the marriage was false. But she also had no traces of being once a sickly princess who appeared like a walking corpse on her wedding day.

Did she recover too quickly?

Perhaps the Duke bribed the King with the cure for her Grace to receive her hand in marriage. That was the most plausible conclusion for Ningguang who knew better than to ask outright. Being too direct would reveal her intentions. She's not that risky.

"Keqing, your lady-in-waiting was a great find. I would have loved her on my side had she not threatened me like that." Ningguang grinned through the rim of her teacup which Lumine provided. "Where did you find her?"

"I'm a bit delighted to say that she found me." Lumine answered honestly. She was indeed looking for allies but it was Keqing who presented herself to her. 

"Then good for her. She belongs to a noble house that has long since fallen. Only noble in name with a decent property land to own. She's smart for staying in your side." Ningguang found it to be a true shame that she couldn't make Keqing hers, she had a a lot of potential and she wouldn't be a bad addition to her already made team.

She also needs an extra hand so her lovely lady-in-waiting Ganyu can rest for a day or two. 

"Nobility so far has been nothing but power and connections to those with power." Lumine smiled a forced one, the crimson-eyed Lady's sharp gaze catching onto it.

"Well that's just how this world works, Dear," Ningguang sets her cup down and slowly traces her jaw with her finger, eyeing the Duchess curiously. "I would assume that the same goes for royalty."

"Having been a sickly princess who wasn't involved much in royal matters, I wouldn't truly know." Lumine answered quickly. 

"How is your health these days, your Grace?" Ningguang asks.

"I am well. It was as if I got miraculously cured." Lumine.

"What a curious thing."

Lumine turned to the clock on her study, seeing it was almost time for her dear husband to come home. Now would be a good time to escape Ningguang's obvious interrogation.

"It's a bit late and my husband should be home any minute. You'd best be on the carriage home to avoid the dangers lurking at night, Lady."

"I suppose you're right. Apologies for overstaying my welcome, your Grace."

***

Shortly after Ningguang left, Lumine headed to the garden.

She found learning about being a proper noble and waiting around for her husband to give her a task was far too boring. She's finally a bird free from her cage, she can't just waste her freedom on work and studies.

She needed a hobby, and that's when she explored the possibility of maintaining a garden. It's something she can do from home, and she's always been fond of flowers.

Lumine already imagined the type of flowers she'd plant. Most of them would be Aether's favourites and hers as well. She planned to bring to life the safe space she and her brother have made for themselves all those years ago.

On days when the other princes and princesses would harass them, they'd seek shelter in the forest behind the castle. Imagining it to be a magical land where they are free of harm and they can rest in a field full of white lilies.

She plans to make a garden that Aether would have loved to see.

Lumine welcomed him home as she always did, even if it was a beneficial marriage formed under a contract- it felt only right to still greet him anytime he'd come back home. He also always appeared to be pleased every time she did so.

And she aimed to keep him happy so that she may never know the consequences of him being unhappy with her.

Stood in a new dress to greet him, she stood near the threshold. Behind her is Keqing informing her of the work she finished throughout her etiquette lesson with Lady Ningguang. Lumine told her she did a great job and there he entered.

It was always the same. He'd walk in, searching the crowd of faces greeting him back in the Duchy and he would smirk upon seeing her. Then he'd walk over and greet her so brightly, like a husband who's been away for days finally coming home to his beloved wife.

But this one was different. His aura was different and she could smell it, it was so familiar, blood. It reeked off him and even though he walked in spotless, not a single flaw could be seen on the esteemed Duke, she knew.

She's not daft. Lumine knows Childe has done things to warrant himself the title of a monster Duke but she didn't wish to know the details. The world always works to balance itself out and if she learns about him, it would only be natural that he learns about her.

She's not sure if she wants that information out.

She's not scared of what he'd think, she just didn't want to see the look that would settle on his face. She feared he'd be indifferent, but she also wouldn't be able to stand seeing his look of pity.

Pushing the knowledge of smelling blood on him, she grinned softly. "Welcome home, Duke."

"Wife."

That was shorter than normal. Usually he'd recite a poem to maybe elicit an eye twitch from her in annoyance. She was beginning to feel nervous.

"I managed to return just in time for tomorrow. I trust everyone in our Duchy would make proper arrangements. I'm off."

And he walked away. Probably to head to his study or his chambers, but what is this n feeling that is settling at the pit of Lumine's stomach?

She walked away, retreating to her chambers with Keqing hot on her tracks.

"Keqing?"

"Yes, your Grace?"

"What's tomorrow?"

"A Sunday predicted to have cloudy skies with a small chance of rain. Oh and your first bed-sharing night with his Grace."

Lumine felt her breath get cut off from her lungs.

Chapter Text

Keqing said it so casually as if it wasn't a big deal, but she stopped dead in her tracks and she could swear her heart stopped beating for a quick second. Keqing had to put a hand on her shoulder for her to regain her senses.

Keqing quickly understood the things going through her head and sympathized. In a way, both of them are just trying to survive and lead a better life. To regain her family's glory and honour, Keqing needs to rise in status with the Duchy's reputation and power.

But that doesn't mean she'll only utilize the poor Duchess as a tool.

"I can't say I am knowledgable in such an area, your Grace. But I have read books before that detailed such actions in curiosity."

Lumine shook her head. This girl was evidently younger than her and she just received the news she's expected to share a bed with her husband tomorrow night, she's not in the right space to be given sex lessons by her lady-in-waiting.

"I'm fine, thank you for the concern. I'm turning in early for the night." Lumine felt a headache rapidly approaching, this was all too stressful.

"Would you like some tea to help you relax, Duchess?"

Lumine shook her head to decline the offer. Keqing lowered her head and exited her chambers.

Leaving the troubled Duchess alone in her chambers with nothing but the silence as her only company. She did say she's willing to climb on his bed every night if it meant surviving and keeping her life the way it is now but-

Now that it's here. . .she's not exactly sure what to think. 

It was silly of her to even consider that when she knew nothing about pleasing a man!

Would he discard her if she was too bad at it?

Lumine then felt a shiver run down her spine.

Would he be gentle?

Lumine couldn't sleep.

The next morning, she dreaded breakfast and almost begged to sleep in. But she didn't want to anger him- she's done well so far to not upset him in any way- aside her small acts of defiance. He appeared to like it when she bites back, but she can't exactly anger him.

So she attended breakfast with her heart pounding inside her chest. He acted normal as always, unlike yesterday when she felt so small under his gaze and he smelled like blood. He appears more normal now.

Unfortunately for Lumine, normal Childe is always smirking as if mocking him and a knowing glint in his eyes that seemed to say he can't wait for her to slip.

"Apologies for my lost of composure yesterday when I arrived home," Childe spoke first. "I hope I didn't scare my Wife."

Lumine wanted to say he did. She was terrified, playing numerous scenarios in her head about the tonight that she barely got any sleep but she's not about to let her fear show. With his usual smirk plastered on his face, he'd love that.

"I was taken aback, yes, it's just that I've been busy with my studies to even mark the calendar." Lumine forced a grin.

Childe was pleased by her answer, however. There's his pretty girl, always so defiant and baring her fangs right back at him.

"Don't worry. The Duchy isn't lacking, and I promise you a comfortable night."

Lumine remained quiet, forcing her breakfast down yet again. Something she always did when sharing a meal with her husband. She wondered if this man even wants an heir, she knew it was a big role of hers to provide one but something about him didn't really show that he values legacy.

"If I were to birth a girl, what then, your Grace?"

"You're my Wife, don't call me by my title." Childe then stared at her, trying to read her expression for asking such a question. "I guess I wouldn't mind. I get to have a daughter as beautiful as you."

Lumine knew she was being wooed, he was charming her and he was doing so just for the sake of doing it and she hated how it made her heart speed up. She's still a girl after all, one who has never had romantic relationships with another person and so she's bound to be weak to such flirting.

It would be so much better if it wasn't him.

"Our contract states that I'm allowed to have partners under the circumstance that the relationship remains a secret." Lumine reminds both him and herself. She's not fully tied down to this man.

She can't exactly leave, but she has full liberty to do as she pleases.

"Oh, I assure you, dear Wife that whoever you happen to find will never prove themselves to be better than I in bed." Childe winked, making Lumine want to throw everything she just ate up.

Keqing threw all the maids out Lumine's chambers. She knew Lumine wouldn't want the maids to know how nervous she is, they probably didn't even know Lumine didn't spend the first night with the Duke.

If they did, she'd be ruined.

A Duchess abandoned on the first night is unheard of and would cause such an uproar, her reputation would plummet and Keqing can't afford to have her benefactor fall before she even got to rise.

"Keqing, you attend tea parties often, are there ever gatherings where noble women talk about. . .bedroom affairs?" Lumine asked as her lady-in-waiting brushed out the knots in her hair.

Lumine sat in front of her vanity, finding herself to be rather beautiful. She's put on a few weights and looked considerably healthy, life has returned to her once sunken eyes and in her opinion, she wouldn't look too unsightly when naked.

She should be fine on the visuals department when it came to pleasing a man. . .

"There are but I'm afraid I am not allowed to join. They're rather exclusive and only invites married noble woman to join their circle." Keqing replied.

She felt bad for her mistress. Lumine is beautiful and proved to be a kind soul in the short amount of time she's got to spend with the Duchess, but Keqing can't help her out of this one. She's bound by a contract, and she needs to fulfil her duties as a noble woman.

"I'm truly sorry, Duchess." Keqing lowered her head and put down the hairbrush.

Lumine looked at Keqing's sullen expression in the mirror and smiled softly.

"don't be. It's not as if his Grace is forcing himself on me, I agreed to this. I'm just rather nervous because it's my first time. You've done well so far to serve me, don't lower your head so easily."

***

Lumine entered his chambers, it appeared empty. He was either bathing or still in his office and she didn't mind. She can calm her nerves before he arrives and not ruin everything with her nervousness.

She sat on the bed and chuckled at the dress she was put in. 

The maids presented numerous négligées to her and she trusted Keqing to pick the best one to suit her. It ended up being a baby blue dress that showed off her chest and felt right above her knee. 

She felt like she was already naked and felt quite cold. Turning to the fireplace inside the chamber, she approached it. 

Successfully lighting a fire and she distracted herself by watching the fire. Trailing her eyes on the embers that would float around and disappear into nothingness. She was too distracted in fact that she didn't notice another presence joining her in the room.

Ajax stood next to his bed, watching her. She was ethereal. Sitting in front of the fire. Her hair tinted orange and eyes glowing in the dark. . . let's not forget the cute little dress too, she looked like a doll.

"I must've taken a while that you got cold." Childe finally spoke up, making her turn her head and still sat on the floor, she looked up at him. Those innocent gold eyes with a hint of orange from the fire looked so inviting.

"Good evening, Duke."

Formal as always.

Childe knew this is most likely to be her first time, so he took his time. Offering his hand, which she accepted and pulled her up. Now on her feet, he looked down to find their height difference adorable.

Something about her having to crane her neck to meet eyes with him turned him on. 

"Don't worry, pretty girl. I'll take good care of you." He smiled.

Lumine kept her eyes on his, refusing to look away and show her hesitance even when he could see her knees threatening to buckle any moment now.

"Will you be gentle?" She asked, and he felt as if a cord was snapped.

He just wanted to grab her and swallow her whole. How can he not? Isn't he a monster who snuffed out every beautiful thing? And she's so beautiful in this moment, looking up at him with her wide innocent eyes wearing such a dress.

But he controlled himself enough to only reach out and caress her cheek.

"I promise."

He then lowered his head to capture her lips in his. They were soft, and he fought back the urge to bite down and draw blood. Images of her covered in blood making cameos in his mind- not yet.

Tonight, he takes his time.

Childe places his hand on her hips, pulling her impossibly closer and she whimpered when she felt something hard pressed against her clothed stomach. She had a vague idea of what it was and felt her mind begin to spiral.

She was liking this. She's never kissed anyone ever before but it felt amazing, was he that good or is kissing that great? She didn't care.

She began letting herself move on instinct against him, hoping she wasn't gonna ruin the mood with her inexperience.

Childe smiled between the kiss, it was cute of her to try with zero experience, and it only made him wanna devour her more. He was starting to question his taste and type.

Before Lumine, he slept with anyone he found attractive enough. Didn't matter if they were a man or a woman, if he found them aesthetically-pleasing and they responded to his advances- then it would lead to him spending a night or two with them.

And Lumine is truly beautiful, not lacking in the visual department, but that's not what is drawing him in right now. Her tensed shoulders, arms stiffly glued to her side and failed attempts at kissing him back- these would have normally turned him off but he's liking this.

It was like he's given a clean canvas. A blank piece of paper he can colour to design however he wants. 

These thoughts were far too unholy but he entertained them, leaving her lips to trail his kisses down her neck and almost froze when he heard her soft whimpers. She sounded like heaven.

Lumine's arms finally moved, grabbing whatever she could before her knees finally gave out. Realizing this, Childe lifted her with ease and walked over to the bed.

Setting her down, he took his time to examine her.

She laid there, hair sprawled out on the bed and her chest heaving. She was anticipating what he's gonna do next and she hated to admit that it excites her.

Childe then continued his work, trailing kisses all over her exposed chest and working his gloved fingers to pull the straps of her dress down. Exposing her bare chest to the cold and he licked his tongue to the sight of her hardened nipples.

Lumine felt something wet and warm between her legs, she hopes it's a normal reaction given the situation she's in. She can't even believe she's not asking the ground to swallow her when she has her breasts exposed to him.

He drank her in first, savouring the sight before diving in to capture one of her breasts in his mouth. The sound she let out was sure to visit him in his dreams, his free hand making its way between her legs and smirking.

Skillfully removing his gloves, he explored her core again, satisfied when he felt her damp underwear and inserting a finger inside her without warning. Lumine gasped. She was unsure where to focus.

He was nibbling on her nipple lightly and was pumping one finger in and out her hole- she felt overwhelmed by it all. It's all new but she also felt so so good.

Then he inserted another finger, she felt her insides stir in a weird way. It wasn't unpleasant but it didn't feel good either and she couldn't help the unholy noises escaping past her lips.

She went in nervous beyond belief, how come she's a moaning and panting mess now?

"You're doing so well, pretty girl." Childe spoke for the first time in a while. Looking up at her, his mouth still glued to her chest and she looked down to meet his eyes, panting heavily.

The sight of him meeting her eyes with his mouth on her sent a shiver down her spine. She can't believe she enjoyed that sight.

Then he stopped. Pulling his fingers out and leaving her chest. She whimpered at the loss of pleasure and watched him curiously. 

A gasp leaving her lips when he tore her panties apart. He sent a wink her way. "I'll replace them, don't worry."

Lumine then noticed how she's mostly exposed to him and he's still fully clothed. He discarded his gloves but he still had layers of clothes on and narrowed her eyes at him. It was unfair and so she reached her hands out to pull at his clothes.

"Relax, pretty girl." He cooed and began peeling said clothes off, his bare chest presented to her and she trailed her eyes across his bare body. Scars littered his body, differing in lenghts and shapes. 

"Where are those from?" She asked. Only now realizing that he would also be able to see her scars. The evidence of her horrible past and she wondered if he was the same as her? Was he also broken beyond repair?

"I've fought many battles, girlie. These are my medals and proof of victory." Childe grinned, keeping his eyes on the litter of scars all over her legs that are usually hidden under the long dresses. 

He wondered how come the maids didn't inform him about them. Did she tell them not to? Or did she simply hide it from them as well?

"Their reminders that I survived. I made it out of every battle as the winner." Childe spoke and she blinked in bewilderment. His words made sense and she understood them well.

By now, it's obvious he's seen her scars and didn't make a single comment so she refrained herself from asking further more. Planting the quote in her mind. Her scars are evidence of her previous battles, and she made it out alive.

"Now here comes the painful part, pretty girl." Childe tells her, now fully naked while she still had her négligée on. bunched in her stomach to expose her legs and chests but still somewhat clothed.

She had made a point to avoid looking at him from below the waist and he noticed. Founding it both cute and funny and so he decided to not move just yet.

"You're not feeling shy now, are you?" Childe teased and she hated how he had to do this while he's kneeling right between her legs with her core exposed. There was no room for shame now but he manages to fluster her still.

"Just do what you're supposed to so I can fulfill the terms of the contract." Lumine regretted that instantly.

"Oh, so those moans and whimpers were also part of the contract?" Childe asked with a knowing smirka and she cursed under her breath. Making him laugh out loud and he dipped his head to place a kiss on her flushed cheek. "I'm only playing, Wife."

"I wanna go to sleep, Childe. So can you please-"

"Go on and sleep. I can still do a great job by myself even if you're not awake." 

He's joking. He's only provoking you. Lumine told herself but why did the idea make a pool between her legs?

"Childe."

"Okay, okay." Childe chuckles. "But at least look at me, pretty girl."

Lumine was hesitant but she met his eyes again and that's when she felt it. Something entering her and a sharp pang of pain from her lower area. It only lasted for a quick second, her pain tolerance is quite high so she recovered quickly.

And pleasure took over.

She felt out of breath and the sounds coming out her mouth was uncontrollable, she had to bite her lower lip to keep them in because she was beginning to feel embarrassed. He was barely moving and just burying himself to the hilt yet she's already a moaning mess.

"Look, pretty girl. You're taking me in so well."

Lumine shouldn't have but she was out of it and blindly followed his intruction. Looking down to find his cock burying itself inside her and the sight was so erotic- she could swear she almost came undone- but willed herself to remain sane.

He managed to fit all of him inside. She didn't appear to be in pain so it was smooth. He struggled with her being so tight but she didn't even give him a groan. 

My Wife appears to be accustomed to pain.

He decided not to move just yet though, he didn't want to break her when he just had her. So he stayed still for a few minutes to gauge her reaction and she was biting down on her lips so hard.

Childe dipped his head to capture her lips in his, and quickly pulled away.

"Bite any harder and you'll draw blood."

Lumine narrowed her eyes at him. "Start moving."

Childe chuckled and placed his hands on her legs. "Yes ma'am."

He began moving, slowly, at first. Reminding himself that it's her first time and the moment he did so, he was drowning in her moans and whimpers. Her attempts to stifle her own sounds was entertaining but he could barely focus on them when he felt so good inside her.

And in the middle of him picking up his apce, he noticed a bulge on her stomach and felt his dick twitch inside her. She felt it too and looked down to find him staring at her stomach.

He couldn't get a clear view so he resorted to almost tearing her dress and Lumine groaned at that. She can't have him destroying her clothes every time they share a night together. 

But all her annoyance disappeared when her eyes landed on the evident bulge on her stomach, she was unsure what to feel about it but she knew she found it arousing in a way while he absolutely loved it.

He knew she was far too small compared to him but she took him in so well- he couldn't control his hips from pounding into her any longer. Lumine thought his pace from before was the best it could get until he folded her legs and slammed harmer into her.

She felt her vision cloud and she can't even form a single coherent thought at this point. All she could focus on was how good she was feeling and how she never wanted it to stop.

"Fuck." Childe cursed.

He was loving it. 

He's drooling a tthe sight of his cock bulging her stomach and how pretty she looked folded up like this while he abused her virgin hole. Then he remembered what this night was about. An heir.

From her shaking legs and the tears forming in her eyes, he could tell she was close and he felt the strong urge to paint her walls with his seed. She has no room for complaints when it was the sole reason she's writhing under him right now.

A few more thrusts and she came undone, whimpering loudly and he followed right after. Slowly pulling out to not let his cum spill out and he scanned her.

Completely ruined right under him. Golden eyes dilated in daze, hair unruly and tangled with the bedsheets and her cunt. . .her cunt glistening with both her own wetness and his seeds.

"That was amazing pretty girl but I'm afraid I'm not the type of man to be satisfied with just a single round-" He didn't get to finish. Hearing her soft snores and he laughed out loud.

She really slept right after that. Expecting him to do all the cleaning and he couldn't stop his laughter at the thought. Nodding with click of his tongue, he caressed her still flushed cheek.

"I'll let you rest."

It was her first time after all and she did mention wanting to sleep earlier.

With stifled chuckles and a still hard cock, he cleaned her up and tucked her in. Deciding to finish himselff while she slept peacefully.

Chapter Text

The following morning, Lumine woke up to an empty bed. She didn't exactly expect her husband to wake her up with kisses and a bouquet of roses in hand but maybe leaving a note would be good? 

That was her first and recalling the events made a blush creep up to her cheeks from her neck. Looking down at her body, she took notes of the small purple and red patches loitering her skin as she pulled off the covers.

She was sore all over.

Having to call the maids in because she can't move without wincing, she's glad to see Keqing entering.

Keqing, her face remaining neutral despite seeing the state of Lumine's body still held a look of understanding in her eyes. 

"Good Morning, your Grace." Keqing greeted. "Can you move?"

"I can't," Lumine heaved a sigh, staring at her bare legs. "I'll be taking my meal in bed, inform the maids."

Keqing nodded and despite herself, she asked. "How was it?"

"It's. . .different." Lumine was unsure what to make of it, she admits she felt immense pleasure from the events last night but can she even admit that?

"I understand, I'll go get your breakfast ready, Duchess."

Ningguang noticed how the Duchess seemed to be different. She was still doing well in their classes but her eyes were far away, as if she's in another place and only her physical being remained.

But she let it go, finding no flaws in her practice until their lesson ended and the Lady began to inquire about it. While the ladies sat drinking tea alone in the drawing room, Ningguang cleared her throat.

"Duchess, I notice your mind was far off during our lesson, may I know what has distracted my student enough to occupy our time?" Ningguang asked. Making sure that Keqing was not around to defend the Duchess or stir their topic away from her probing questions.

This was an opportunity to dig into Lumine. "Forgive me for being distracted," Lumine sighs. "I have just shared a bed with my husband yesterday and I'm still quite sore."

Ningguang's eyebrows rose at the answer. She's more than aware of marriages of convenience among nobility and there's no doubt the same thing was happening to the Duke and the Duchess. But she hadn't expected Lumine to be so open about bedroom affairs to her.

"As my teacher, could you impart some knowledge on this matter, Lady?" Lumine asked, her golden eyes wide and innocent as if she didn't understand the implication of her questions.

To ask an unmarried Lady about bedroom affairs, tone indicating she has to know something would have insulted anyone else but Ningguang is aware that Lumine knows of her dear secret lover.

"My only advice is to be vocal about your wants and needs. I haven't a clue how the dynamic is between his Grace and the Duchess, but communicating would be the key. Stand your ground and let it be known that you're not satisfied with a man just sticking it in and leaving right after."

"Is that not how it is done, my Lady?"

"You're not animals breeding. Such affairs are supposed to be intimate, heated and intense. You're supposed to feel so good, you lose your mind in the process." Ningguang grins, suddenly missing a certain pair of amber eyes.

"Thank you for answering such an improper question of mine." Lumine cast her eyes down at her cup and began replaying the events of last night in her head. He did go easy on her and remained gentle at her request and to keep his word, but what were those thoughts that plagued her mind throughout?

"Don't be sorry. I'm your teacher and only answered to impart knowledge." Ningguang can't say she likes Lumine but she also does not hate the Duchess. She was far too kind to be hated and her warmth has already made an impact on the Lady. "I do hope your relationship with his Grace improves. In our complicated society, a married woman's value relies on her husband's favour."

Lumine smiles, glad to have met the Lady and have her be her etiquette teacher. Despite Ningguang's rather infamous reputation of being cold and cunning, Lumine saw her as kind. Society just isn't used to seeing powerful women be bold enough to display their power.

Lumine would love to be like her someday.

Ningguang left hours ago, and the sun has set. Lumine is still yet to see her husband who left so early and he was nowhere to be found still. Lumine guessed that he was out, working, and she can bring up her concerns about last night's events when he comes home.

She couldn't sleep yet however late is was. She didn't bother to call Keqing who she knew would be resting. Keqing has been too kind and has been doing an excellent job as her lady-in-waiting, she can't disturb the young Lady's peace at night.

So Lumine ventured to the garden alone, pleased to find the Lilies she ordered the Duchy's staff to prepare were growing well. They almost glowed under the moonlight and caressing a petal in one hand, she sighed in bliss.

"It's late, Wife." 

The voice startled her, making her jump from where she stood and she turned around to find her husband grinning at her. Lumine didn't expect him to find her in the garden, he just got home after all, he should be changing or preparing for bed.

"Your Grace, what a pleasant night. I was merely taking a stroll." Lumine forced a smile. 

"In such light clothing?" Childe frowned, seeing the very thin robe she had covered herself with. Peeling off his coat, he walked closer to her and draped the coat over her shoulders, shielding her from the cold and she mumbled a quiet 'thanks' under her breath.

"You wouldn't mind if I join your stroll then?" Childe asked.

"You're more than welcome to join, Duke. I happen to have some things to say."

"What concerns my wife?"

Childe offers his arm and she accepted, holding onto him as they began their stroll around the brightly lit garden so late in the night. Lumine didn't speak for a few seconds, taking in the sight and admiring how peaceful it was.

Despite Childe being right there, she felt quiet.

"It would be great to not wake up to an empty bed every time we share a bed." 

"Did my Duchess miss me too much?" Childe teased, ignoring the way he felt warm at her request.

He didn't mean to leave so early and disappear for the whole dya but Harbinger duties had to be carried out and they took longer because he was distracted for the most parts. Images of Lumine panting and her moans echoing in his ears distracted him so much so that Scaramouche and Signora had to point it out.

"All I'm saying is it would only be proper to at least be given a single rose in the morning and not be disregard so," Lumine releases a deep breath, preparing herself to endure his teasing yet again.

"I understand. It was selfish of me to just leave like that, forgive me." Childe apologizes. "Then, are roses your favourite?"

"No, my favourite would be lilies." Lumine replied, setting her eyes on the newly planted lilies blooming so well.

"Any reason why lilies? Most women are fond of roses."

"They remind me of my brother, Aether."

Childe's research on Lumine did state she had a brother, but there were no further information of his whereabouts. It was either he escaped the Palace with the implications of abuse being inflicted on them or he is dead.

There was still so much to unravel of Lumine.

"Your Brother? I didn't know you have a brother, I'd love to meet my brother-in-law." Which is a lie, but he wanted to see anyway if she would tell him anything.

"I'm afraid that won't be possible, your Grace," Lumine's voice wavered at the end. She had to pause and regain her composure. "He's dead."

Childe suspected much, he ignored the way her arms around his tightened and how stiff she's gotten. He shall ask no further questions if she's in this state, he's decided to respect her privacy for now. 

However, Lumine was willing to talk. It's been a while since she's told anyone about her life. She told Keqing a very quick summary and left a big chunk of details out, she's still yet to open up about her brother.

"He was my twin, and Aether was lovely. He was strong and kind, he glowed brightly like these lilies." Lumine grinned. 

Childe stared at her, finding she had a different look on her face. That smile she gave was new, far from the other ones she's shown him and the gentleness in her eyes caught him off guard. She looked different in this very moment.

"He was perfect, his only flaw would have been to be born a boy." Lumine chuckle at the absurdity of her sentence, knowing if anyone were to hear it out of context- they'd think her mad for such a claim. "Because he was a boy, he was a candidate to succession. He threatened our other siblings to the throne, they did not leave me alone and continued to torment me still but he posed a bigger threat."

Childe stayed silent, stopping in his tracks when she did and watched as she held her hand out to caress a lily.

"We never met our Mother but she was said to be greatly favoured for the King. He despised us however, blaming us for her death, she was too weak to birth me and was far too tired for Aether but she insisted on bringing us into the world together. The son of the King's most favoured Queen, he had quite a big target on him."

Lumine always knew, even as a child. She learned so early that there are people who are evil just for the sake of being evil, she had endured so much pain before she could even learn how to speak or walk.

They were only lucky that at least one maid took pity on them and raised them despite the lack of funds from the King and the torment of the concubines and their children.

"Aether was beautiful as well, he was like the sun, so radiant and bright and warm. He was my everything and now I suppose I have nothing and no one." Lumine's smile was quick to fade, Childe worried if that was the last time he'll see it.

He admits he has set his eyes on her, she was far too interesting for a random princess he married and that interest could only grow the more he sees her. She always showed a different side to her, a new expression or a brave retorting remark- she never failed to catch his attention.

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to bore his Grace with such a sad story-"

"Don't be. I'm sorry to hear about such a tragic thing." Childe is unsure if he means it, he's never really cared about the misery of others but hearing her voice falter like that, it stirred an unpleasant feeling within him. "But you're out of there. You're safe from them now and I vowed to protect you while you remained by my side."

Lumine couldn't bring it upon herself to look at him but she's glad. This was not the direction she was looking forward to take in their conversation but she's still glad. Somehow this man she greatly feared has become some sort of pillar of comfort in this very moment.

Talking about Aether again made her feel free, to have someone to share stories of him with- she can always keep a part of him alive.

"It's cold and late, we should head in." Lumine tells him and he nods, silently leading her back inside and they remained silent for the rest of the walk, only breaking the silence when they finally stood outside her door and she moved to return his coat.

"Goodnight, your Grace."

"I shall mark the calendar for the day you address me other than formalities." Childe grins sarcastically. "Goodnight, wife."

Chapter Text

Lumine bid her husband goodbye, watching his carriage ride off and he's gonna be disappearing for a month. Having been tasked to settle matters in Liyue by the Tsaritsa, he informed Lumine beforehand, who only wished him to stay safe in his journey.

He wished her to hold him back and beg him to stay but there was no way she would do that, but a man can dream.

Lumine found it was somehow easier to breathe around him now. She still felt like choking under his intense gaze dissecting her very being but it also brought an odd comfort - no she doesn't love him and doesn't exactly imagine a future where that is possible but she's content for now.

Her husband was no enemy, he's at least on her side and she doesn't have to worry about keeping her head attached to her neck nor brace her frail body from the impact of one's balled fists.

***

In the month that Childe spent away with his wife - he did not expect her pale blonde hair to occupy every crevice of his thought. To have her soft and hesitant voice whisper to him from the empty and vast lands of Liyue plains.

He'd often catch a glimpse of her tiny figure walking about the harbour and question his own sanity. Perhaps he is losing it?

There's no way such a meek girl would bewitch him enough to invade his every sense and distract him from his work, which he considered to be the only thing that mattered to him. She was a contractual wife - nothing more.

Despite his growing fascination for her, she was a broken doll he picked up and adorned in beautiful accessories for his own gain. 

So he definitely does not miss her. Oh no.

Meanwhile, Lumine tended to the garden all the while taking her classes from Ningguang still. Keqing was never lagging behind her, still performing at her best and even lending a hand with the Duchess' lovely garden.

"You are doing such splendid job on the gardens, your Grace." Keqing calmly commented, looking around the row of lilies glowing under the sun's rays through the rim of her teacup.

"I'm glad you think so," Lumine grinned. "I have no prior experience to tending to such a big one, but your help is most appreciated."

Keqing let a few moments of silence pass by. She watched her master nonchalantly, eyeing the refined etiquette Ningguang has imprinted on the Duchess and smiled inwardly. Lumine was slowly but surely blooming into the new flower of high society.

Nevermind her husband's scary reputation - his power and her beauty alone could boost her up the social ladder with minimal effort and once they see the hard work of both Lumine and Ningguang displayed with her glowing image - they'd fall over themselves.

Keqing is not one for flattery if it does not benefit her. But she can see it clear as day, the inevitable fate that would befall her mistress, in fact, there is two.

One is she continues to live on as a contractual wife, living in bliss and feeding off her husband's power or being discarded so easily once she is no longer of use.  Keqing has already laid out her plans, actions she will take for every outcome.

Unbeknownst to her - there is still one outcome that she did not dare foresee.

"His Grace will be returning in a week." Lumine absent-mindedly wondered out loud, about to say something else when the sound of rustling bushes made both women turn their heads.

Emerging from the row of lilies is a young man clad in humble clothing. His bright blonde hair as bright as his green eyes - he smiled politely.

"I see her Grace is enjoying another tea with Lady Keqing." He lowered his head slightly, though he kept his eyes on those pair of golden hues staring at him curiously.

"Thoma, what brings you back here?"

"I was approached by one of the maids, it seems you found it hard to take walks on the west side of the Duchy. As the landscaper, I thought it best to approach you and offer my aid on this matter."

Lumine gives him a small smile and Keqing watched them both interact curiously. Absorbing everything and keeping her mouth shut as always.

"That would be most appreciated Thoma," Lumine  grinned and gestured to the empty chair next to her. "Would you care to join us for tea?"

"I wouldn't want to impose." Thoma lowered his head slightly.

Keqing pondered for a few seconds, watching the slight hint of red decorate the young man's pale cheeks and got up. "I say you accept the offer, keep her Grace company for me," Keqing lowered her head to address Lumine. "I'm afraid I have a few more of those letters to read in your stead."

Lumine frowns. "Don't tire yourself out in favour of me, Keqing."

"I won't, I enjoyed the tea and conversation but I must get back to my duties."

She began walking away, hearing shuffling behind her as Thoma occupied the seat the Duchess offered. She stole a glance over her shoulder to see the two happily chatting away and nodded to herself, approaching the head maid standing a few feet away.

"Instruct the other maids to steer clear of the gardens." Keqing did not need pesky maids whispering about her mistress and her friend to paint the Duchess in a bad light - she feels comforted knowing Lumine has earned a friend.

And she'd do well to protect her mistress in any way she can.

"Are you excited to be home?" Zhongli asked, calmly looking through the window of the carriage and Childe raises a brow at him. 

Zhongli and Childe ran into each other in Liyue, both appearing to have business to settle there and decided to head home together - having been friends for quite some time - they figured it wouldn't be too unusual to share space.

"What do you mean?" Childe frowned, the older man is well aware and Childe is happiest when working. When he is spilling blood left and right and laying waste upon lands - why would he be excited to go back home and tend to boring paperwork?

"You're coming home to your wife after a month?" Zhongli raised a brow with a slight pull on the corner of his lip.

Childe can see where he's aiming from a mile away. "You're enjoying this."

"I don't see why I can't indulge myself," Zhongli shrugged. "I've spent years of you teasing me relentlessly any chance you get."

Childe chuckles. "So I see this is retribution."

"It is indeed," Zhongli chuckles as well. "How is the lovely Duchess faring these days?"

"She's - " Childe paused. No one has really asked him about his wife. Not even his pesky co-workers dared to bring her up. Scaramouche made the point to be annoying at every turn about the arrangement before but after getting married - dead silence.

He's unsure how to answer - how does one even describe their contract wife to other people? Nevermind that Zhongli is well aware of the arrangement - it feels odd to be talking about her to others outside keeping up pretences.

"She's well."

Was all he could say.

Lumine stood beside Keqing, seeing the carriage arrive and abruptly halt right in front of her. The servants lined up behind her to greet their master's return and they kept their heads lowered. 

They expected it to be bloody yet again. There are days he'd come home to soak the already crimson red carpet in blood, a dark aura surrounding him and they feared for their frail Duchess' reaction when he appears before her in that state.

Their lovely and quiet Duchess who kept to herself and peacefully tended to the garden - appearing like a fallen angel with hidden wings whenever servants would catch glimpse of her in her solitude.

Her glowing image and her bright hair making them blink in disbelief - how would such a kind and soft person react to seeing their master in his truest essence?

They've worked in this Duchy for years, their family serving for generations and yet the master still instilled fear - like how his late father also brought chill to people's spine - he indeed was a fruit bore from the same tree.

The carriage door opened and the first one out was Childe, fortunately clean and not a single trace of blood on him. Lumine greeted him warmly, smiling bright and looking up at him with those golden eyes of hers.

Childe looked down at her, feeling the same odd feelings stir in the pit of his stomach and dared himself to look away but he couldn't. He returned her warm smile with a smirk and grabbed a hold of her hand.

He pressed a kiss to the back of it, looking back up at her to see her flustered state. "I'm back, Wife."

"W- welcome back, your Grace."

He's failed to get rid of that formal title yet again.

Chapter Text

The following morning, the Duke left the estate as soon as he got there. He was called by the Queen yet again and so he fled his Duchy before he even got to shrug off his coat and was only able to exchange a few words with his wife.

He found the irritation unwelcome and rather surprising - since when was he ever annoyed when requested to have an audience with the Tsaritsa?

"You don't have that annoying grin on your face like always," Scaramouche narrowed his eyes at the redhead. "It's creepy."

"Perhaps marriage changed him?" Signora teased, stretching her crimson red lips to a smirk.

That's the first they've addressed his marriage since it happened, Tartaglia  regards Signora with curious eyes and a glint of danger in them. He somehow found that his wife being mentioned by others made him feel uneasy.

"That bloodthirsty mutt?" Scaramouche crossed his arms and looked up at Tartaglia with a glint of hostility in his eyes. "We all know there's no changing a monster."

Tartaglia looked down at him, lips kept in a straight line, and blinked once before parting his lips to reply. "How amusing of you to say, some little birdy told me you're courting a fortune-teller."

Scaramouche stepped back, face contorting into one of pure anger. "Your sources couldn't be more mistaken. That wench robbed me."

Signora watched the two bicker in mild amusement. 

"Alright, boys -" Signora rolled her eyes. "Let's put on our big boy pants and act accordingly, her Majesty will be seeing us soon."

"Shut it," Scaramouche glared at the woman. "Your latest exploits at Inazuma were a mess, I had to clean it up for you."

Signora narrowed her eyes at the smaller Harbinger. About to part her lips and spout insults when the large golden doors swung open and there she entered, the Tsaritsa in all her icy glory. The three Harbingers lowered their heads accordingly, and only silence remained.

"I see you three are getting along as always."

"Moi Tsaritsa, I hope you've been well and healthy." Tartaglia grinned with his eyes cast down to the floor.

"My, Childe, always such a charmer. Now tell me, how's that little wife of yours?"

***

Lumine couldn't explain why she felt disheartened when she woke up to an empty bed. She stretched her arm out and felt nothing, not even the warmth of her husband so he must've left early. 

Keqing noticed the odd frown on her master's face, but she kept quite. Tending to her with her lips shut tight like usual and they had breakfast together, sat across one another while Keqing pretended not to hear the many sighs escaping past Lumine.

"How are you liking your custard, your Grace?" Keqing asked, watching her poke the dessert mindlessly in mild concern.

Lumine looks up at her, appearing to be snapped out of her train of thoughts. Flushing from embarrassment and looking down to nod meekly. 

"It's good."

Keqing often wondered how her lovely Duchess is able to have the resolve to remain kind despite the past abuse she went through and the ability to thrive in such a marriage when she seems too soft most of the time.

She dares not to doubt Lumine but a small part of her worries.

"I see, then I shall deliver your compliments to the chef." Keqing waved her fork around animatedly. "Your schedule is empty today, would you like to go to the plaza and shop for dresses?"

"But don't I already have so many?" Lumine asked. She knew it was common for nobles to splurge and stock up on dresses but she had enough to last months without having to repeat a dress, it seemed a complete waste to her.

"But you need to show your face out in public, a secluded noble will only stir up rumors." Keqing reasoned. Despite knowing that rumours already circulate this Duchy, she just needed to convince her Grace to go out and enjoy herself among commoners.

"You're right," Lumine gave in with a nod. "But it doesn't have to be a dress. Let's buy seeds, how about that?"

"Seeds?" Keqing frowned.

"I also wanna get a few plants that can be kept inside the estate, perhaps a few to place in our bedroom?"

"I understand," Keqing nodded curtly. "I shall felt the carriage and help you prepare for the outing."

Keqing sat quietly inside the carriage, biting the insides of her cheeks and trying not to let her hesitation and worry show. She's not alone with her Grace in the carriage, she insisted on bringing Thoma.

She was quite apprehensive about their friendship given the rumours that might stem from it but now she's gone and decided to bring him out to the public for all to see.

Keqing tried her best to talk Lumine out of bringing him, but she insisted he knew more about gardening and therefore could provide guide and advices throughout their trip to the stores. It was a good reason but people hungry for gossip will not see it that way.

Many stories could be spun from this. They'd claim that the Duchess is having an affair without the Duke's knowledge and it was brought on by the Duke's monstrous personality - or that the Duke is allowing such a scandalous relationship because he really is a slave to the Queen and holds no feelings for the Duchess.

Both could only paint Lumine in a bad lighting.

Lumine could tell, Keqing couldn't stop fidgeting with her gloves and she felt somewhat bad to be worrying her lady-in-waiting so much but this really is no big deal to her. Thoma is just a friend and his knowledge will be helpful.

If anything, she's the one bothering him for dragging him all the way to the shops and pulling him away from work.

"That reminds me, I'm very sorry for interrupting your work, Thoma." Lumine gave him a sheepish smile.

"It's my greatest pleasure to lend a hand to her Grace, the Duchess." Thoma smiled, flashing those charming pearly whites that somehow made his green eyes brighter.

In a way, Lumine can see traces of Childe in him. Thoma is nothing like her husband, he's been nothing but kind and pure so she has no idea why she's thinking such thoughts but she couldn't help it.

***

Childe is upset. He had a long day at work and was expecting to be greeted by his lovely wife when he gets home but there was nothing but silence. Only the servants were there, lined up with their heads hanging low.

"Where's my wife?" He asked one of the maids who flinched at his voice.

"H- her Grace is out with the Landscaper and Lady Keqing to buy gardening supplies."

He frowned. The Landscaper?

"How long have they been gone?"

"All day, they left after breakfast." The maid replied.

He's very much upset.

Without another word, he marched to his office and began sorting through the documents he left alone. Deciding he should just get work done to distract himself from feeling upset - wait, why would he even be upset?

Because she went out without his permission? She didn't need it. . .

It was an hour after he got home did he receive news from the butler that she's finally home, he rushed to get out of his seat without even giving it much thought and raced down the halls to make it to the entrance hall.

Arriving at the scene to witness a man he did not recognize assisting his wife off the carriage, seeing her smile so brightly at him and he felt darkness cloud his vision.

Chapter Text

Lumine could tell something was very wrong with how the air felt cold and sharp as she inhaled it, the staff appears to be side-eyeing her with worry written all over their faces and Keqings lips are kept in a thin line.

She can't recall having done something bad, so she assumed it's matters involving the Duchy that was beyond her control but now settled back in her chambers - she turned to her handmaiden for guidance.

"What's going on?"

Keqing shook her head solemnly, she herself know not what brought forth the sour mood of His Grace but she's sure seeing the Duchess going on outings with another man would not ease that.

Of course, it must be impossible for that monster to be jealous so it might have been coming from somewhere else yet he's taking it out on the poor Duchess. Keqing let out a heavy sigh and lowered her head. "I'm afraid I too, have no idea, your Grace."

Lumine turned to her reflection in the mirror. Allowing her thoughts to wonder until she remembered something very crucial - they're to share a bed once more! 

Childe did not get to ask questions. Like a child who had been deprived, he stomped to his office and buried himself in work once more to distract himself from the fact he got jealous because his Wife was with another man.

That's so not him to be jealous - specially over a woman he only married for convenience. So he went back to work and acted like he didn't feel the very strong desire to crush that man's neck with his bare hands for even looking her direction.

Jealousy is an ugly emotion he believed to only sway those who are cowards, he's not jealous. Specially not because of some landscaper he doesn't even know the name of.

Wait - he doesn't know that rascal's name. He slowly put the documents he was holding down and rang the bell with a defeated sigh, watching as his trusted butler entered with a quiet greeting.

"Yes, your Grace?" He greeted with his head low.

Childe clicked his tongue, unable to hold it as he let the following words out : "Find out everything about that landscaper, every single detail and I need it on my desk by morning."

The butler glances down at his watch and it reads 11 in the evening. Despite what that entailed, he was wise enough to curtly nod, "It will be done, your Grace. Anything else?" 

Childe bit the insides of his cheeks. "Make sure he never gets anywhere near my Wife ever again."

With a bow, the butler left his office. Leaving him to run a hand through his now messy heair and breathe out in frustration. He's really not jealous.

Lumine was nervous. If her second night with him was anything like the first, then there's no guarantee for her - her thoughts were kept occupied by that night and she couldn't rid herself of thoughts that were of him.

She liked it and there was no denying that, is she to be hooked on the feeling he gives her once they do it again? Is she going to begin craving him like mad?

Lumine entered the familiar room, looking around to find it appears the same. Not much has changed and she's noticed that about her Husband, he doesn't really give much thought to the decorations and appearance of the Duchy.

No wonder Thoma informed her that he's never once met the Duke, he was hired by the Butler and has been working for over a year under a master who probably doesn't even know his name.

Lumine thought she was the first one to arrive in the room, jumping at the sudden voice that broke the silence. "You're here."

She looked around the room to find him sat on one of the chairs, legs crossed and back leaning against the soft cushion. She surveyed her eyes all over him, his hair appears to be wet and it's slicked back - giving her a clear view of his sharp azure eyes.

He looked her up and down, unaware of her eyes that studied his face. To say he wasn't itching to touch her would be a lie, she was so perfect that night that she managed to occupy his thoughts long after the deed was done.

This is just so she can provide an heir - something he doesn't care about. But why does the air feel different?

It was like a blur, she remembers him inviting her to also take a seat and have a drink with him. He was uncharacteristically quiet so Lumine took the initiative to talk, asking about his recent trip and inquiring about his work.

She honestly didn't care, as long as everything is well but she listened as he answered her queries and they managed to empty the whole bottle. She's not sure who drank more but her vision is far from being clear.

Her thoughts are also a bit jumbled, she can't even keep her eyes open so everything else is uncertain - everything but her sense of touch because the alcohol seemed to have heightened that specific sense.

She could feel every time his breath would hit her skin, her skin tingles at the way his fingers would trail all over it and the warmth of his body pressed against hers felt close to what hell would've been like.

She's not too sure what's happening now but she's liking it. It felt so good, too good and she didn't want it to ever stop. Gone are her efforts to suppress her moans as she calls out his name in a hoarse voice.

Childe can hold his liquor well, and he could tell that she was drunk. She kept rapidly blinking like trying to focus her sight to no avail, and he found it almost cute. The goal wasn't to get her drunk, just so she can loosen up enough that their second night won't be so awkward.

But he supposed this isn't too bad, she's not holding back and trying to hide her every reaction to his touch like before. He can hear and feel all of it, she twitches at the slightest of touch and that somehow turns him on even more.

After thrusting in and out of her, he finally came and she followed right after. He took a few seconds, trying to steady her breathing as she try to keep her eyes open once again. 

The alcohol must be slowly wearing off when she can at least see him clearly now and the sight of sweat beads running down his forehead and the way his jaw would clench as he tries to catch his breath is making her feel hot all over.

She expected it to be over after that, waiting for him to pull out so she can roll over and get some well-deserved rest but he started moving again. She lets out a yelp in surprise and looks up at him with a frown, biting back her moans.

"What - what are you doing?" She asked, despite the answer being so obvious. A man like him is most likely to have an appetite and she was too delicious a treat to only consume once.

Childe probably shouldn't have allowed himself to think back on that stupid landscaper but the alcohol must've gotten to him and his thoughts are no longer in order. It's almost funny how his dick is buried deep inside her still with his seed mixing with hers, yet he's feeling jealous over a random man.

Lumine reached her hand out to try and push him away. It was far too soon and she's getting overstimulated, it all feels too much and she's afraid she might break if he keeps going. "St - "

"Tell me, dear Wife," Childe interrupts her pleas, his pace unrelenting as he now rests one of her legs on his shoulders to slid in further into her. "Does your little friend know how good you take my cock?"

Lumine could feel her eyes water at the mix of pain and pleasure - not to mention the filthy words escaping her husband. "What are- what are you - " She couldn't even form a proper sentence with the way he was pounding into her.

She could almost feel her brain melt into mush - unable to construct a sentence as a response. Childe darts his tongue out to swipe it across his bottom lip with a smirk before replying, "Thoma, was it? Tell me, has he touched you like this?"

Had she been sober, she would've been offended at his accusations of unfaithfulness but instead she felt hot, he's jealous and it was such an attractive look on him that she couldn't help but clench down on him.

"No," Lumine breathed out. "Just you."

Childe's smirk remained at her answer. She said it in such a quiet voice that he almost didn't hear with the sound of skin-slapping but that was enough fuel for him to go even faster, Lumine coming undone in just mere seconds while he took his time before unloading into her.

Childe watches as her back arch so beautifully from the pleasure, her beautiful eyes shot wide open with dilated pupils - like an angel that god has craved and gifted to him specially.

The following morning, he had to leave yet again for the Tsaritsa. Lumine remembered everything from the night before, every detail and it was as if she experienced it all over again when she recalled the events during breakfast.

Keqing had to assist her to the dining room with how sore her legs were. She kept her questions to herself while Lumine burned from embarrassment, she can't believe she said all those things to him and - 

And Childe got jealous?

Lumine shook her head, it was surely nothing sort of romantic. He's probably just feeling possessive, a man like him who was fashioned to be a Duke from the moment he was born is sure to be spoiled.

He must just be acting out, seeing his possession be in the hands of someone else. Lumine doesn't really dislike the thought of being his possession, being his granted her so many privilege that she longed for as a Princess.

Keqing places the teacup down in front of her. Lumine is writing letters to Lady Ningguang, they appear to have gotten close. Lumine considered her a friend while Ningguang still considers their relationship strictly professional.

The Lady cannot find it in her to admit that she's taken a liking to Lumine. It was quite hard not to when she's so honest and kind, not to mention absolutely beautiful. But she did not need to have Keqing boasting so she's choosing to act as if she doesn't care.

Lumine is enjoying a quiet afternoon alone. As she expected, her thoughts are plagued by last night's events and she can't help blush everytime she remembers the many positions they did it in.

She even questions how her body was able to fold in certain ways or just how strong his arms were to hold her up so effortlessly. Keqing kept quiet as she served tea, observing the way Lumine spaced out and how her hand would caress her clothed stomach.

Lumine knew it was all to bear him a child, a successor and though it is a marriage of convenience - the thought of children excited her. She never considered having them before with the life she lived.

But she's so happy at the thought of them now. Imagining a child in her arms, she would surely name a son after her brother - so that she may see him grow up and live a full life away from the pain and the fear.

Keqing leaves her for a moment to go fetch the letters that was scheduled to arrive today, leaving Lumine to her daydreams. She wonders if her baby would have Childe's eyes, those sharp and intimidating blue eyes would look adorable on their baby - or rather his unique ginger hair.

Looks doens't matter, whatever her baby turns out to be - whoever they decide they want to be, she will love them with all of her being. Lumine isn't even one yet, but she already adores being a mother.

Keqing returns with letters stacked in her hand. As expected, though the buzz around the Princess-turned-Duchess has died down, she still gets plenty of invites. Her husband's influence and her mystery draws the nobles in and they can't get enough.

One invitation stood out however.

Keqing hands it to her, Lumine accepting and she frowns at the words written on the envelope. "The Queen herself is inviting me to a ball?" 

Chapter Text

The Ball is two months away, barely enough time for anyone to prepare their dresses for such a grand occasion. But it's not as if the Queen cares about the nobles and their frivolous concern over the clothes they are going to wear.

A ball as important as hers will be a mark in the calendar, and to curry her favour is to have the winning lottery ticket. Though those under her are feared, there is also the underlying envy and admiration.

The nobles under her are feared, such infamous reputations that did not paint them in any good lighting. Childe is but one of many, and he himself is like the Boogeyman whose tale is told to children to scare them into staying in bed at night.

But despite all that, he holds a tremendous amount of power that only he can wield. He rules over a prosperous Duchy and has riches beyond one's imagination.

The ball will be everyone's chance to grasp the Queen's attention.

Keqing is beyond stressed over that, the Duchess is about to be introduced to the Queen and she must look her best. Not only is the Queen's power and authority absolute, but the Duke himself works for her.

Lumine has to look her absolute best and it is her job to make sure of that.

Despite the very short time provided by her Majesty, Keqing managed to pull strings and call in favors (maybe some more blackmailing) to prepare the grandest dress.

It is only fitting for the empire's one and only Duchess to be adorned in the finest of clothing and jewellery— she is to take everyone's breath away.

Keqing knew it well at just first glance but Lumine is beautiful, beyond words could possibly describe. But she kept her beauty humble under plain and simple dresses, insisting she was only gardening or at home so there was no need to dress up.

But often times the Lady would take her time admiring the Duchess. Lumine was so beautiful that she has no doubt she'll take everyone's attention when she enters the ball.

Now, she just has to wait for that commissioned dress to arrive in time for the ball which happens to be a week away now.

In a week, the Queen will meet the Duchess.

Childe knew he shouldn't be leaving his wife lonely in bed the next morning after spending the night together. But it really couldn't be helped with how busy his job gets, so many people to silence and so many information to gather.

He found it ridiculous how he's missing her. A wife he didn't even want in the first place, so much so that he almost argued with the Queen but how funny.

He never asked for her, and yet here he is thinking of her sprawled out in his bed, whimpering under him when he's supposed to be focusing on the meeting.

Dottore is leading today's meeting, proposing they take over the east next. That's usually where the half-bloods live, they're called rhat bc they carry both human and animal blood in them.

Some are full on beasts with the intelligence of humans and others appear like normal people if not for their animal-like ears and tails. They're a closed off country with only 3,000 in population.

No one touches them in fear of their mystic, and they don't leave in fear of being harmed for being. . .different.

But Dottore has been eyeing them, most specially just what makes their country so rich despite the absence of outside help. Their country is prosperous on its own and there must be something more.

"I don't see how this is any help to us, to the Queen." Arlecchino interuoted, raising her hand with the usual straight face.

"The Tsaritsa wants power, she wants the empire all to herself and to do that— she has to claim the Emperor's throne." Dottore recited like it was a fact so well-known, it's a bit tiring to say it again.

"Yes and that's a that we've been doing, gathering power and knowledge just so she can take over the empire." Colombina nods.

"But the empire isn't exactly made yet, she is to be the first Emperess in all of Teyvat's history. A complete control over the nations." Signora spoke up, crossing her arms with a raised brow. "I don't see how taking over such a tiny civilization is gonna contribute."

Dottore rolls his eyes." None of you are seeing the big picture here. That tiny civilization managed to thrive all on their own, I seek to know why."

Childe ponders for a moment. That country is said to be housing fine jewels and the purests magical stones, hence their success, but that was merely gossip.

Though he does wonder how great a gift one magic stone would be for his wife— he's thinking about her again. He's at work and he's thinking about her like he wasn't just with her.

This is getting ridiculous.

"I'd hate to agree with anything you say but, I am curious how those creatures managed all by themselves and it wouldn't hurt if the rumors about their magical stones turn out to be true. " Scaramouche interrupted his train of thoughts.

"Why don't we vote on it before we take it up with the Queen?" Pantalone proposed.

Childe nods quietly, watching the expressions on his co-workers' faces.

He is really regretting agreeing to take over that tiny country now. He is busier than ever and he barely gets to eat meals with his wife, she is always slipping through his fingers and it's really getting to him.

The ball is tomorrow and that will be the first time they meet in a while because he thought to give her the best jewels as gifts.

The plan is still on-going, they haven't seized full control over the half-bloods but the rumours turned out be not so baseless.

Through research, they learned that the country prospered because of how rich the soil is. They plant what they eat and eat what they plant, they had no need for riches when everyone is fed and clothed and healthy.

Unlike the capital where the alleys are cluttered by peasants and vendors in their tattered clothing, the rich is only satisfied if their riches are spent to buy more riches.

Those creatures had no use for jewelries and ball gowns, they were content. Such a shame to ruin their peace, but how unfortunate for them.

Childe holds up the stone to the sky and watched as the rays hit it, making it appear as if itsyglowing and he smiled.

"This would make a fine necklace, no?"

Signora makes a face at him, switching glances between the look in his eyes and the glowing stone basked in sunlight.

She could read that expression well but decided against pointing it out. Deciding to keep the comments to herself this time.

"Yes, it would." She simply replied.

The ball is finally today.

Lumine looks at the mirror to see herself, being shocked at the image displayed to her. If she did not recognize that face as her own, she would've thought an angel came down to grace her presence.

Keqing prepared a beautiful pale blue gown for her, it was almost white and laces of varying designs and bright jewels covered it. It was absolutely beautiful and it felt as if glostening clouds covered her body.

It had a giant skirt but she didn't feel it weigh her down, it was as if she just wore her usual dresses.

Lumine turned to Keqing who had on a look that she can only describe as 'accomplishment'. Keqing was so proud of herself and seeing Lumine with her hair pinned up all pretty is a sign of a job well done.

"Thank you so much for this." Lumine told her.

Keqing returned her bright grin. "You're most welcome, your Grace. Although the Duke is also to thank, it is afterall thanks to the budget he provided that I was able to make this gorgeous dress happen."

Lumine faltered, just now realizing how expensive such a dress would be. She might have been able to afford a whole house with just this dress and the thought almost made her wanna strip.

"I know what you're thinking, don't. You are this Empire's Duchess, you deserve only the finest, most beautiful things."

Lumine looks down at herself and shakes her head. "I do not deserve it. I did not earn my place nor my title."

Keqing clicked her tongue in disapproval. "Such negative words for such a joyous day. Smile, Duchess."

Lumine looks up to mirror Keqing's grin although hers is fake.

"You represent our Duchy, you and his Grace are expected to look your best to show the success of your people. You look amazing, it is only my wish that you feel just as great as you look right now. "

Before Lumine could respond, she heard the familiar voice of her husband call her name. She swiftly turned to find him in a gorgeous white suit, matching her.

"Your Grace," Lumine greeted him, bowing her head slightly. "You look handsome."

That wasn't baseless flattery, he really did look handsome in his suit and she could feel her cheeks grow warm under his intense gaze.

Childe walked in, scanning his eyes all over her and finding nothing but perfection. From the way strands of hair fell in curls to frame her face perfectly to the smooth skin of her neck and chest— she is absolutely divine.

Keqing dismissed herself after greeting him, exiting the room with the maids to give them privacy.

"You look beautiful, Wife." Childe tells her, approaching slowly as she anticipates him closing their distance.

Childe offers his hand and she didn't hesitate to give hers, as if in a trance while their eyes kept locked onto one another.

She hasn't seen him for weeks and she admits it was lonely, she's been craving him and she knows how dangerous it is.

But she couldn't control it, her body tingles at the though of him and her hands itched to touch him again.

Now that he's here, she can feel every nerve in her body urge her to cling to him.

Childe liftes her hand to his lips, pressing a soft kiss to the back of it with a smile on his beautiful face. Lumine almost gasped, it was so simple yet she felt her whole body heat up at the contact.

The effect he has on her was almost suffocating, more than the corset squeezing her ribs right now.

"I missed you, my Duchess." He confessed.

Lumine struggled to come up with a reply and what came out wasn't a lie. "I as well."

Childe felt something warm in his chest at that response but it was quickly dismissed as he pulled out a box from his pocket, and handed it to her.

"I paid a visit to a lovely country and brought back a gift."

Lumine slowly opened it and found herself blinded by a bright jewel, it's a beautiful necklace.

"I can't possibly accept this—"

"I would take great offence if you don't wear it tonight," Childe interrupts her with a grin. "I went through a lot to take that one home."

How can she argue with that?

High Society was taken by complete surprise, the rumours did not do them justice. The moment they walked in, there was no question that they're a beautiful pair.

The Duchess is so beautiful and the Duke is absolutely gorgeous, together they looked like a dream come to life.

They walked in and all eyes were instantly on them, Lumine could almost feel herself shrink under so many pair of eyes. But the hand holding hers kept her grounded enough.

It did not help that he stared at her the entire carriage ride, not saying anything and merely observing. He wanted to commit the image into his head, every bit of detail kept in his precious memories.

He did not care if they stared and whispered, a he could think about was how proud he is that these people can only look on and possibly dream of having her.

They are free to fantasize about her while he's the one who gets to take her home, how lucky is he to be called her Husband.

Despite the Queen's appearance, a fair amount of the attention remained on her. The Tsaritsa greeted Lumine and she thought she was gonna pass out.

Childe proudly introducing her as his wife while the Queen offered a knowing smile, seeing her Ajax all grown up and in love it would seem.

"Your Majesty, I would like to introduce my Wife, the Duchess of Monoceros."

Lumine kept her head lowered as she listened to the loud beating of her heart, she can't believe she's meeting the Queen.

There are many rulers residing on this Empire and each has their own countries to govern but she was the most powerful, most feared and quite frankly the most beautiful.

No one knows her age and there are whispers of her divine lineage, how can someone appear so youthful despite reigning Queen for decades?

"Lift your head," Lumine did as told and met those icy blue eyes, cold and sharp. "My, what beautiful eyes, like melted gold."

Childe can only grin and agree, his wife truly is a sight to behold.

"It is my absolute honor to meet you, your Highness."

"It is mine as well, Lumine."

The introductions went well and the couple blended with the crowd, however Childe had to abruptly leave when the Queen called him over.

He was hesitant to leave her alone and have those hungry nobles swarm her but the look on her Majesty's face told him that it was important.

"I'd hate to take you away from your beautiful wife but there is something you must take care of." The Queen tells him.

"What is it, your Majesty?" He asks.

The Queen gives him a smirk before answering. "That child is back and he's trying to ruin my party like he ruined our operations years ago."

Childe clenches his jaw at the information. Of course, how can he forget? The man responsible for the death of his sister, Diluc Ragnvindr, coming out of the shadows.

Chapter Text

Diluc knew it was dangerous, it's likely that those pesky Harbingers will be lingering around and it'll be him against them which isn't an even match.

But he couldn't help shrugging Jean's concern off, she was right to be worried but he really didn't want to hear it from her.

Those people are off to throw a grand party and enjoy themselves tonight without any regard for the lives they ruined.

Not to mention their recent expeditions in Ardravi, those innocent creatures are about to have their lives ruined by Harbingers and fall victim to their schemes yet again.

Diluc won't let them. They already did so much damage and hurt countless of people.

Wearing a stark black suit, he makes his way around with a mask concealing his features. Luckily, red hair isn't so rare in the empire so he might be able to blend in pong enough to gather the information he needed without the need for confrontation.

He turns a corner, the halls isolated while everyone enjoyed themselves in the ball. He's sure to receive scolding from Jean later but that doesn't matter right now.

He overheard some agents earlier talking about the Tsaritsa's powder room and how no one is to enter, that definitely piqued his interest.

Casually walking down the hair, the only sound to be heard is his boots hitting the marble floor. He's on guard, bracing himself for any sort of movement and froze when a rush of wind suddenly came.

Making the tree branches brush against the window, almost startling him.

"You seem to be lost."

Diluc turned swiftly to find him standing down the hall, right next to the door he's supposed to enter.

Feeling a lump form in his throat, he swallowed it down and gripped the sword he had hidden inside his coat (it's retractable and therefore perfect for undercover operations).

"It would seem so, you don't happen to know where the bathtoom is, do you?"

Childe smirked, taking slow steps forward while taking off his gloves. Watching the way the shadows are cast on Diluc's face, the very same face he was looking at as he felt Tonia's heartbeat slow down until it completely stopped.

"Quite the nerve you have, Ragnvindr. I thought you would be smart enough to never show your face to me ever again after what you did. "

Diluc frowned, recalling their last interaction and it came in flashes of smoke and blood. An entire palace crumbling down with debris raining from the sky, and sat in the middle is a man with glowing blue eyes that reeked of anger.

In his arms is a girl, her hair color concealed by the ash it accumulated but the blood all over her clothes can be seen clearly.

"What did I do?" Diluc asked, not understanding what he was trying to imply.

Childe could feel the anger bubble up in his chest. The sheer audacity to ask what crimes he committed as if he's already forgotten about the life he took.

Pulling out his daggers, each concealed inside his coat and they glowed under the moonlight, a bright blue color to match his eyes.

"I'll make you remember."

Diluc knew what was coming and so he retrieved his sword, pressing the button so it shifted into its larger form and blocked the attack on time.

The Harbinger's blades missing his face by half an inch, he uses his free leg to kick him and put distance between them once again.

"You're the ones who have to pay for your crimes, don't make me out to be the villain." Diluc scoffed, he's slowly piecing it together. Whoever that girl is must've been important to him and here he is blaming Diluc for her death. "Had it not been for your exploits, there wouldn't have been a need to destroy your base."

Childe gritted his teeth, his smirk remaining despite the furious anger he could feel begin clouding his vision.

"She was innocent."

For a moment, Diluc thought his voice cracked and his tone was sad. He could sympathize with the loss of a loved one but he refuse to apologize.

They took something just as valuable from him and have yet to make up for it, he will not be swayed by anyone or anything. The Fatui are dangerous, her Majesty is power-hungry and will never stop until she reaches the top.

And there's no telling just what she will do once she finished enjoying the view from there.

Childe could still feel it, the warmth of her blood that coated his hand. It was everywhere. It took him hours to get rid of every trace that he scratched and tore open his skin in the process.

It was in his hair, under his nails and inside his mouth.

He spent sleepless nights watching her dying face fade into nothing as she's taken away from him so suddenly. She was the only family he had left, the only person he cherished and valued more than the Queen.

And she was gone just like that.

A part of Childe knew that it wasn't intentional. Despite his hatred for the Fatui, Diluc Ragnvindr would never resort to harming innocent family members.

But that does not change the fact that he pushed the buttons, he set off those bombs and started the fire. Killing Tonia might not have been the intention but the fact he did remains.

And Childe does not have room in his heart for forgiveness.

"So was my Father." Diluc spat out and ran towards him, sword in hand.

Childe dodged his attacks and their fight then lead them to the garden, when they heard guests approaching and thought of a quick escape through the window.

Jumping down, both landed on the soft bed of grass and faced off once more. Childe is still worn out from his latest visit to Ardravi, it would seem they can still manage to put up a fight with what little resources they have.

He can feel his stamina declining and Diluc has barely broken a sweat, this isn't going as he expected — it would seem he has to retort to that again.

Childe managed to hold out for a few more, dodging more blows and receiving a cut on his arm — tearing his suit and he hisses both in pain and annoyance.

He hasn't even danced with his wife yet and how his clothes are ruin. He trusts the Tsaritsa has already prepared him spare clothes but he particularly liked this one, it matched her dress.

Diluc saw it, the light at the end of the tunnel and the very bright flash of hope when his sword appeared to be moving in slow motion. About to pierce the chest of the Queen's mad dog.

But that illusion was soon broken when bright purple light clouded his vision and a strong invisible force threw him back.

He landed on the bed of grass with a groan, looking up to no longer find the familiar face of his opponent and instead the image of a monster. Standing almost 15 feet tall is the monster concealed deep beneath the playful and coy persona of the Duke.

Diluc has seen the worst, he almost guaranteed he will never be scared od anything ever again but looking up at that— he could feel every nerve in his body ache and all the alarms in his head are going off.

He knew he needed to run, that there was no winning against whatever that is unless he gives it his all and die trying.

Childe admits he's not fully in control when transforming, the divide is 70/30. 70% of him is in control and can think and move as he wishes but there is that small percent that clouds his judgement.

Looking like a monster would guarantee you to act like one, often times he would refuse to use the transformation to make sure he won't be dealing more damage than necessary.

He doesn't care about that right now. He could let it have the reigns and allow himself to tear this man into shreds and not regret it one bit. Death is too kind of a punishment but he could rest assured the man responsible for killing his only family is taken care of.

Diluc gets up, reaching for his sword and readying his stance. If he were to compare sizes, his head wouldn't even reach that monster's chest. And with the aura it gave off, it's unlike those pesky mitachurls that are gigantic with barely any challenge to them.

"What are you?" He asks, both afraid and bewildered.

Childe takes a step forward, pointing the end of his spear towards the man. "I am your executioner."

Before another battle could begin, a loud clanking sound could be heard. Making the two turn and it was then the garden was covered in smoke, Childe took a step back and looked around frantically.

Readying his weapon in the case of any attacks but nothing came, it was when the smoke disappeared as if it was never there did he realize— it wasn't to attack him, but to distract him.

He looks back on the spot where Diluc previously stood and sure enough, it was empty. Gritting his teeth, he was about to turn back in disappointment to report to the Queen when he heard the rustling of bushes.

Lumine grew worried, Childe excused himself after exchanging some words with the Queen and he hasn't returned since. She thought something might have happened and he might need her help.

Despite herself, she set out to search for him and fought off the fear of traversing this unknown place. The Queen's Banquet Hall truly is beautiful but nothing could compare to the entirety of her Palace. It reeked of luxury and power.

Every crevice was sure to afford a commoner their entire supply of food for a year, only the Queen would ever be able to afford such a lifestyle.

Her search lead her to the garden and thought she heard people talking, though she did not recognize them, she thought she could maybe ask them for directions or id they possibly saw her husband walk by?

Once she came into the clearing, what she saw was far from her expectations. The image that came into view wouldn't even be able to be conjured in her nightmares, it was terrifying.

She tried to turn away but she only managed to take a step back when her skirt brushed with a bush and she knew then and there that was fucked.

Rhe giant figure swiftly turned to her and appeared closer in a flash. Lumine stood frozen, her heart in her throat as she listens to her heartbeat ring in her ears.

She's glued to the floor as she watched the figure crouch down to level gazes with him, even with it being on its knees, it was still way taller than her tiny form.

Lumine stared at its face— if it even has one and felt compelled to keep staring. In a way, it looked so majestic and comforting.

It terrified her at first glance and even more so when it approached her but looking at it now, it was as if someone tore her open and exposed her innermost desire and pain and dreams and fear.

It's almost crazy to think that she saw herself in this monster. Like it's a manifestation of all that she went through and somehow, it was — "Beautiful."

Childe was almost scared, he recognized her right away but he knew he wasn't in full control. There's no telling what Foul Legacy would do to her, and what's even crazier is the fact that he cared about that.

He's giving it everything he's got to make sure he doesn't do anything that would harm her, getting on his knees and staring as she looks up with her golden eyes wide open.

He wanted to speak and urge her to run, to turn away and never look back but there is a part of him that wanted to know what she would think of this, of him. Because Foul Legacy Transformation isn't just a part of him, it is him and he needs to know if she can handle that.

Before he truly lets her in, to allow himself the possibility of getting hurt yet again. Tonia was supposedly the last, he never wants to experience loss that excruciating ever again but if she accepts him, he shall do the same.

He'll accept her, and all the pain she has to offer if she were to be taken away like the others.

"Beautiful." He thought he heard wrong, but the look of pure bewilderment on those pretty golden eyes proved otherwise.

Lumine realized her mistake too late, to call a monster beautiful would be to provoke it and it was only fortunate that someone called her name.

Ruining the moment and making the both of them turn, Lumine turns to see Keqing approaching her— it would seem she made it to the ball after all.

She insisted on arriving later than the Duke and Duchess to allow them to spend time together, promising she'd catch up and offer her aid in steering scheming nobles away from Lumine so that they may not bombard her with questions and their not-so-good intentions.

"Your Grace, there you are!" Keqing approached her and looked around with a frown. "What are you doing here all alone?"

"Alone?" Lumine frowned and turned back to where she was looking before, "I was— oh."

Keqing placed a careful hand on her arm. "Is everything okay? Where is the Duke?"

Lumine nods with a small smile. "I was searching for him but it turns out, he is not here."

Keqing gestures to the way back to the party, " Why don't we join the others again and wait for him while we enjoy the feast her Majesty laid out?"

No one really eats during noble parties, at least, not enough to fill their stomachs but Keqing never followed that silent rule. This is the Queen's party, her food is sure to be similar to that eaten by the gods with the talented chefs in her kitchen.

Lumine and Keqing made it back to the party, just in time to witness people begin dancing. And right behind them is the Duke who changed into a new suit, Keqing clenched her jaw at the sight.

It's an obvious guest that he had to take care of something that might have included blood getting on his clothes for him to change clothes but she remained silent, stepping aside once he approached Lumine to ask for her hand.

"May I have this dance?" Childe asked, startling Lumine who didn't notice his sudden appearance but she accepted nonetheless.

It was only when they were settled on the dance floor did she take in his new suit, it's black and very much contrasting with her (almost) white dress. It almost reminded her of their wedding day.

"Did something happen?" She asked.

"Nothing serious," Childe grinned down at her, spinning her once before swaying to the music again. "Just soiled by coat is all."

Lumine nods with a small smile, choosing not to probe any longer when her eyes darted on the brooch he always wore. She never really paid any attention to it before so it's only now she's noticing.

The design on it is exactly like the mask that monster from earlier wore.

"You shouldn't have gone there."

Diluc rolls his eyes, this is truly the worse. He almost died and to make it worse, Kaeya had to be the one to save him.

"Save it, I'm already gonna hear it from Jean. I don't need you to nag me too." Diluc scoffed and looked out into the view their carriage is passing.

"And we're both right to do so, you're too impulsive at times. You're smarter than this."

Diluc turned to glare at him. "I had it handled, I was so close but then he had to go and turn into— whatever that was."

Kaeya grew silent. He admits he himself was stunned, he almost missed the very narrow window to rescue Diluc when he witnessed that thing transform. It's unlike any monsters they faced and there's no guarantee they'd survive even if they teamed up against it.

It was a good call to just distract it and escape. Diluc heaves a sigh and looks back out.

"Thank you, I owe you for tonight."

Kaeya chuckles. "You owe me for a lot. But I'll spare you this time because Jean will take care of you for me."

Diluc hated worrying her, but he knows his capabilities and can work well on his own. He swore off teaming with other people, he couldn't let another comrade die and be the only one left to bury them and their memories.

Specially not Jean, not when she's the one good thing that remains.

"But at least now we know what we're up against, if that thing is ranked the lowest out of all of them then we can have a vague idea of how the rest will be." Diluc says quietly.

"Do you ever stop and think we're fighting a losing battle?" Kaeya asks.

Diluc heaves another sigh with a hesitant nod. "Yes, but we're the only ones willing to fight. So for those who can't, we have to."

"They've hurt too many people, ruined so many homes and taken so many lives. I can't continue my life knowing they get to live happily and enjoy their luxury that was founded in blood. Their victims deserved better, my Father deserved better."

Kaeya nods in understanding and looking out into the same view, the moon reflected on the ocean is always a sight to see. "Worry not, the future you dream of where this Empire is rid of The Fatui will come true. But we must take our time, we have to do it right and we have to be smart. Let's go back and meet the others to share what we learned today."

Chapter Text

Lumine was in daze for the rest of the banquet, she couldn't quite wrap her head around the information she had just learned and did not know how to regain her lost composure. Luckily, no one seemed to have noticed or if they did - her husband's icy glare was enough to render them speechless and unable to point it out.

After their dance, they put up the pretence of socialising when really - they were too afraid to even approach the Duke so they went for the Duchess. Unlucky for them that she had her lady-in-waiting right beside her to stir them away.

Keqing handled them as to take away the spotlight from the Duchess who appeared to be lost in her own thoughts, Childe noticed it but did nothing more than placing a careful hand on the small of her back and eyeing the noblemen gawking at her with a sharp glare.

As much as he liked the idea of the Empire basking in his wife's beauty (rightfully so), he did not like one bit the idea of other men drooling at the gorgeous sight of her. There was no denying that Lumine is a most magnificent piece of art.

Her golden hair and eyes contrasting with her pale skin made her appear like an angel that was so carefully placed on the land of Teyvat to spread her goodness all around. And that scene earlier, of her calling the monster beautiful, was just further proof that she is way different from what he expected.

From a stranger to a weak and timid princess, to a terrified Duchess and now - a most peculiar wife.

After the banquet, Lumine now lie awake. Keqing left after helping her through her nightly routine and now she's alone with her thoughts. No noise from the banquet or Keqing's quiet hums to numb her senses.

It's just her and the realization that her husband is indeed the monster people made him out to be. Lumine is no fool, she knew he wasn't a good man and was known as the Queen's mad dog for a reason but she did not expect it to be in a literal sense.

Unable to explain just how that thing and her husband are one and the same, but there's no denying that they are. That monster felt too familiar, though she was terrified - a small part of her told her that she was okay.

It pinned her in place with the encouragement that she was safe, and she looked into that monster to see a reflection of herself. It's silly, they couldn't be more different but there was no mistaking that she saw herself in it.

Lumine closed her eyes and slowly drifted to sleep, the face of that monster being the last thing she had in her mind before the hours dragged on and the sun finally came up.

Lumine was enjoying yet another breakfast without her husband, he left in the middle of the night she dared not let her thoughts wander into his escapades. She did wonder if he let that monster out again - a very tiny voice in the back of her head claims to wanna see it again.

That is stupid. Why would she run in the direction of danger when she could just very well not poke a sleeping beast? She's done so well and has been living the best life possible for someone like her, it's best not to wander through dangerous waters.

Quietly eating her toast, Keqing burst through the doors with today's newspaper in hand. She looks panicked and Lumine only put her food down to accept the papers, her mind locking instantly on the article about her husband.

The Monster Duke and Baroness Vische, in a love affair? 

Her Majesty's exquisite banquet seemed to have paved the way for these secret lovers to reunite without the knowledge of others but luckily, this reporter is keen when the others are none the wiser. Everyone who attended might have noticed the sudden change in his Grace's choice of attire, changing out of the matching suit with his wife and just after his reappearance did Baroness Vische arrive at the ball looking quiet dishevelled. They both came from the same direction, said a few witnesses and staff at the palace - so it is easy to deduce that the two might have met and engaged in something messy enough to urge the Duke to change his clothes. I'm sure you readers can grasp what I am getting at, A SECRET LOVE AFFAIR NOW NOT SO SECRET ANYMORE! Oh my, how scandalous. We do wonder how her poor Grace will be handling this news, I'm sure those lovely noblemen eyeing her at the banquet can lend their shoulders for comfort - 

Lumine couldn't read any more. She put the newspaper down and was left speechless. She was gripping the pages in her hands and her thoughts were far too jumbled that she couldn't form a proper response.

Was there even need to respond? 

She did not marry for love and she is free of any desire to demand love from her husband - but why is her chest feeling so heavy? Surely it might just be the fear of being mocked by the public for being an abandoned wife?

She's been through so much abuse, verbal and physical that she doubts she'd care if they were to laugh at the very sight of her every time she went out - that's not it.

Will she be thrown aside? Replaced by the Baroness who was known as the flower of High Society from the moment she debuted? Lumine did not even debut and was unknown until she married the Duke.

How is she to compete with someone of that status?

"Your Grace, surely the Duke has an explanation for all of this - "

Lumine held her hand up to stop her. "He need not explain himself, this was a contract from the very beginning. We are not a real couple and it is completely understandable for him to hold affections for other women."

But he could've hid it better, Keqing bitterly thought but she kept those words to herself. Watching the worry overtake the features of her Grace and felt the very strong urge to march towards the publishing house and strangle whoever wrote this article.

"So what do we do now, your Grace?" Keqing asked, she herself is at loss for words. Normally she'd be able to provide insight and even offer advice but this situation is too complicated, too many variables to consider but there is the most important thing -

Protect the Duchess' position.

Childe looks down at the newspaper with murder dancing around his bright blue eyes, if it was possible to burn something just by glaring through it enough - the pages would have been reduced to ashes long ago.

Zhongli's humorless chuckle distracted him from glaring at the article. "Quite a messy predicament you've found yourself in."

Childe clicks his tongue in annoyance. Throwing the newspaper aside and looking at the man sat so lazily across him. "You don't say."

"You asked me here to change the terms of your contract, yes?" Zhongli raised a brow. "But with how everything is now, how do you guarantee that she'll sign it?"

Childe was quiet for a few moments, allowing the silence to take over the room until a knock was heard on the door and two fatui agents came in. Lowering their head to greet him and keeping their eyes locked on the ground.

"Find out whoever wrote this damned article and - you know what to do, make sure they're well enough for my visit."

"Yes sir." They said in unison and left right away, as if they were never there in the first place. He called for the agents the moment he saw the article, and there's no way his wife haven't seen it yet.

He can only guess the kind of thoughts that would be running around her pretty little head. Just what could the expression on her face been while reading about his infidelity? Did she even care enough to give a reaction or was she devastated by his betrayal?

He has no idea what she'll think of all this.

And it's quite ambitious of him to demand her jealousy and anger over something so trivial to their contract. They are not a real married couple and have not acted as such outside of the pretences they put up for the public eye.

"Just change the terms as I instructed you to, she'll sign it," Childe nods at him. "She'll have no choice but to."

Zhongli hums in amusement at that dangerous expression on his face. He hasn't seen much, nor does he claim himself to be an expert on the topic but he can surely recognize a madman in love, and his dear friend is just the prime example.

"How creative of them to spin such a dramatic tale from a mere coincidence," Zhongli applauds their courage - or rather, stupidity. "It would seem your status as the Monster Duke is dwindling down with the appearance of your saint-like Wife. They must've thought you've gone soft."

Childe snorts at that remark. "Then it's best I show them how I earned the title."

Chapter Text

Lumine is so close to chewing all her nails off, had it not been for Keqing who would provide her much healthier coping mechanisms - she couldn't help but fidget while she waited for her husband's return.

Her chest has been feeling heavy the entire day, the staff all around the Duchy has been sending her sympathetic looks and she hated that. She did not want their pity right now nor did she fancy being pitied in this very moment.

Everyone thinks she's about to be discarded and she can't help but think the same. They all see her as something to feel bad for and perhaps they were right to think so.

"You should rest, your Grace." Keqing advised, watching the way her eyebrow would twitch every so often, she is drowning in her own thoughts and her lady-in-waiting is only sorry she cannot offer a quick fix for this situation.

Lumine heaves a sigh, finally having gained courage to say the following words out loud : "Tell me everything you know about the Baroness."

Keqing paused, caught off guard by the sudden inquiry, and hesitated. Gauging the reaction of her Grace but it was hard to read. Her beautiful face was painted with a mix of worry, sadness, fear and - anger?

Keqing cleared her throat before answering, "Baroness Vische is known and held in high regard among nobles. She's the esteemed daughter of the Vische Barony, they're believed to be rivlaing the Imperial Family in wealth and is on equal footing with the Duke."

"I see," Lumine nods. As expected, she could never compete. "Is that all?"

"No one has grasped her personality. She is kind to those who shower her in compliments and show her their brightest grin but tales of her wicked schemes would circle," Lumine raised her eyebrows at that and urged Keqing to keep going. "I heard it through the grapevine that the Baroness is known for harassing any lady that would be involved with the Duke. She has. . . affections for him."

Lumine nodded slowly. If those rumours are to be trusted, it's a shock that the Baroness hasn't made a move on her. She's been married for quite a while now, and yet she has never been threatened by the Baroness in any way.

Not having known the relevance of her existence, she never would have thought that she had such a reputation.

Childe is finally home. Lumine could feel her knees go numb, standing in the foyer with all the servants behind her as she awaits her husband's entrance. She could feel it, how thick the air has become, and felt like she was suffocating from the tension that surrounded her.

Entering his abode, he could feel it as well. The severity of a single article. He's always hated High Society, how every little move can define your whole reputation and affect the way others view and treat you.

And it's the most annoying that his wife is now tangled with yet another High Society drama.

"I see you've heard."

Lumine slowly nodded, there was no need to deny it. At this point, everyone must already know. She can only wonder what they are thinking about her, and this whole ordeal.

"Let's discuss over dinner." Childe turns to the chef who perked up in his spot. "Make something filling and delicious, the Duchess and I have much to discuss."

Lumine could feel her skin crawling, she's been sat here waiting for the food for what felt like forever and the entire time he has just been staring at her.

Childe is unsure how to approach this rather, complicated situation and seeing how she's acting now - it reminds him of the stranger he stood next to while facing god's altar. She's back to being that small and terrified princess who barely escaped the clutches of her abusive family.

All the progress they've made so far to close the distance is gone, and Childe could feel her slowly slipping through his fingers.

"Wife," he called out. Lumine perked up at that, almost jumping from her seat, and she hesitated before raising her eyes to meet his. She can't read him. "Mora for your thoughts?"

Lumine blinked in surprise, racking her brain to string words together and come up with a response despite the mess that is swirling in her head. "I don't see how my thoughts are of any importance, your Grace. You are free to bed any woman that catches your fancy."

He didn't like that answer, but his keen eyes did not miss the way her lips trembled ever so slightly and the frown that wrinkled her forehead. Her answer was unsatisfactory, it truly was greedy of him to desire a negative reaction out of her.

Did he wish for her to hit him in a fit of jealousy and rage? He'd rather have that than indifference. He's unsure what this feeling is, but a voice in the back of his head is telling him that he'd be fine with whatever she has to feel for him, as long as it's not indifference.

May it be anger or disgust, he can take it all as long as it's all for him.

Before his thoughts could distract him away from the present matter, the doors swung open and the maids began filling the table with varying dishes all in large quantities that would not be suitable for just two people.

Lumine gulped. She's not even sure she can stomach anything in this situation.

After they left, it's just now the Duke and Duchess alone but at least she has something to do other than sit still and wish she were smaller. So small that she'd be reduced to nothing and escape this predicament.

She didn't want to eat, but in order to keep herself occupied, she began filling her plate and slowly cutting her meat and stuffing her mouth with vegetables. This is so nerve-wracking.

"Are you not afraid of how your reputation would be affected by the article and the rumours?" Childe asked, but that's not the question he wanted to ask her. He desperately needed to know if she cared enough to feel upset over it.

Lumine forced a mask on her face and looks up at him with a small smile. "I do not place high value in how others see me, as long as I can serve your Grace to the best of my abilities and keep my position."

Sure this would render all of Keqing's previous efforts (ehem Thoma, ehem) useless but the Duke is powerful enough to shut the rumours. It will remain in their minds for quite a while, but some new and grand scandal will come up to stir the pot yet again. Keqing can always build her lady's image back up.

Childe is beginning to grow annoyed. He's not getting the response he wanted, and here he thought all his negative feelings have dissipated when he visited the writers and publishers of the article on his way home.

But it would seem that punishing the perpetrators does not make up for the disappointment waiting for him at home.

"Is that really it?" He asked, gripping his cutleries, and Lumine could feel the fear creep up on her. "Be honest."

Lumine kept quiet. She knows he wants to hear a specific answer, but what that is - she has no idea. She couldn't read his expression at all, she doubts she'd be able to decipher it anyway. After a few more moments of silence, he abruptly got up.

Lumine's heartbeat was ringing in her ears as she sat still and anticipated his next move, hearing the loud sound of chairs scraping and having the wind knocked off her lungs when he grabbed her chair and forced it around.

Now with her back turned against the table and her food, she faces her husband. His hands caging her in, placed on the edge of the table on either side of her and head hanging low to level gazes with her.

Lumine could swear he can hear her heart thrashing in its cage from the shock and fear, she tried her best to hold his gaze but it was too intense. It felt like staring a wild beast in the eyes as it thought of ways to devour you whole.

For a moment, all that could be heard was her heavy breathing and the light scratches his nails are leaving on the wooden table, it was taking everything in him not to just let go of the reins and kiss her until she's unable to think of anything else but him.

He wanted so badly to claim every space in her mind so that she may only ever think of him and no one, nothing else.

"C - Childe." His name coming from her lips was such a tempting invitation but the fear in her voice snapped him back to reality, making him retract and step back to put distance between them and allow her to calm down.

"My apologies, pretty girl." Childe looks away, afraid of what else he'd be able to do if he kept looking at her inviting lips. "I'll let you rest for tonight."

Lumine watched him walk our of the dining room and felt she could finally breathe again. Placing a hand on her rapidly rising and falling chest, she tries to gather her thoughts but there's too many coming at her all at once.

There was fear, having him so close with such a dangerous expression had her weak in the knees but alongside the fear was something else she can't quite fathom - similar to the heavy feeling she felt in her chest upon reading that article. . .

"Lumine, you need to keep your head straight." She whispers to herself exasperatedly.

It won't do her any good to keep being swayed by every little thing he does.

Chapter Text

Lumine couldn't sleep that night. Her thoughts were far too incoherent and the incident at dinner kept replaying in her mind over and over. She hates being so weak, but that is all she's ever been.

Despite the jewels and silk that now adorned her, under all that luxury and power is still the same abandoned princess they kept in an abandoned castle. Aside all these good things she now has too much of, she is still weak to her very core.

Surviving was the hardest part, or so she thought. It would be outgrowing her old self, that is most challenging. To unlearn all they have taught her and present herself in a way that is befitting of her status.

She's been doing well in playing the part, but deep down, she knew exactly what she is and she fears that is all she will ever be. To never escape the shackles that bound her to her old life - what a sad life to be living.

Running her hand over her face with an exasperated sigh, she blinks at her ceiling with a tight-lipped smile. "I can do this."

She can protect her position, she promised Keqing she would be losing nothing in devoting herself to the Duchess. And she has to keep this life, whatever it takes, she's had a taste of delicious and fresh food after having been fed trash her whole life - she can't go back.

She eventually drifted off into a deep slumber and woke up the next morning to Keqing tending to her as always, a few maids assisting as well and even till now she can feel the pity from their gazes.

The staff of the Duchy has taken a liking to their Duchess, it would be a shame to see her go and have this place return to being such a dark and gloomy place. With just the Duke alone, the air was always thick and it's eerily quiet.

Ever since the Duchess arrived, however, colour seemed to have painted this place. Not to mention her lovely projects in the garden that brought life to this otherwise dead land.

Lumine couldn't find it in herself to be angry. She's aware she is to be pitied, but Keqing didn't bother to conceal her annoyance, glaring at them and making them look away sheepishly. It is rather a mystery to them how their soft and kind Duchess managed to find herself a sassy cat for a lady-in-waiting.

"What is on my schedule today, Keqing?" Lumine asked, staring straight ahead at her reflection to watch Keqing brain strands of her hair. The maids slowly piling out of her chambers to leave the two alone.

They'd always lend a hand in her bath and with her clothing, but left the makeup and hair to Keqing who insisted on doing it all by herself. It also allowed them to converse and discuss her plans for the day in privacy.

"There's not much. Just the usual stroll in the garden and checking your plants, after your breakfast with the Duke."

Lumine nods slightly and watched her in silence.

"Your Grace," Keqing cleared her throat. "Do you mind if I asked what happened last night? You appeared shaken and in daze when I helped you to bed."

Lumine swallowed the forming lump in her throat, she's not aiming to hide it from Keqing but it's also difficult for her to explain just what transpired in the dining room. She's mulled over the event in her head over and over.

She even almost allowed the article and that interaction to distract her from the fact that she witnessed her husband's other form - and he surely knows that she knows. But has not found it in himself to bring it up.

Is it even possible for her to ask about it?

Breakfast is. . . awkward. Wait no, that might be an understatement. Lumine could barely swallow anything and even a small piece of pancake felt like marbles stuck in her throat from how thick the air felt.

Childe didn't speak at all. She felt his eyes on her, like always but did not strike up a conversation. 

And she understood that as him being angry still. Why? She's yet to think it through, but he appeared angry last night and he's giving her the silent treatment today.

Lumine couldn't help the bitter snort that left her as she put her glass down. He's the one getting angry when she's the one being ridiculed and pitied by strangers because he cheated on her.

Thinking about it last night, she's sure it was just a coincidence. She saw that monster, surely that was why he had to change his suit, as to why the Baroness was in such a messy state? That's for her to explain - 

But even if they really did not meet to engage in activities that night, it doesn't rule out the possibility that they are having an affair. Lumine's grip on her knife was evident as she tried to rationalize her thoughts.

Why would she even be angry at his affairs? They're bound by a contract and nothing more.

She's fulfilling her role and he's - he's free to indulge in women, as many as he pleases. That's right.

She has no care whatsoever.

"I'll be gone for another two days."

Lumine rolled her eyes. "What? Off to meet the Baroness again?" 

Those words escaped her before she could even think about it and felt like slapping her mouth. It took everything in Childe to hide his grin, looking up from his plate to gauge her expression which she desperately tried to hide by lowering her head.

"I - I apologize. I did not mean that - I'm - " Lumine struggled to explain herself. What can she even say when she has no idea what came over her to say those things?

Feigning nonchalance, Childe puts his cutleries down and leans back on his chair. Keeping those blue eyes on her panicked figure as a smirk fought tis way to his lips. "Are you jealous?"

Lumine blinked and looked up, lips parted in shock to see the smug expression her husband had on his face. "Jealous? Why  would I be -"

"It's completely understandable if you are." Childe teased. He was almost drowning in depression over how their previous evening went but this morning is turning out to be such a treat. "It's not taboo to feel possessive over your husband."

Lumine bit the inside of her cheeks. Her frustration and embarrassment growing by the second. Why did she even ask that? She really wasn't jealous - she's. . .is she?

Failing to respond, Childe has broken into an all-out grin, all too pleased with the expression she had on her face. Her cheeks painted with a bright red hue and he can evidently see her chew on the insides of it.

"You're enjoying this." Lumine points out, her voice small.

Childe lets out a chuckle. "How can I not? My Wife is finally seeing me in a romantic light, enough to be jealous about another woman."

Lumine forced herself to look up to defy him. Glaring while he remained grinning like an idiot who had won all the riches in the world. And there it is, he always loved it when she fought back despite how helpless she actually is.

"Think what you will, I will not explain myself." Lumine told him and abruptly got up. Removing the napkin from her lap and throwing it to her chair with a huff. "Have a good day ahead, your Grace."

And she's back to formalities.

Scaramouche lets out a gag at the sight of his fellow Harbinger walking in, looking like the happiest man alive. He didn't even dare ask why he looks more like an idiot than usual and only stirred clear of his way.

A swagger to his walk and even waving at the few agents who lowered their heads to greet him politely. Signora who also noticed his entrance can only roll her eyes as she watched him point at another agent with a charming grin and a wink.

"For someone who has just been accused of being unfaithful, you seem awfully cheery." Pantalone was the only one willing to bring that up, Scaramouche and Arlecchino groaned in disappointment.

Childe crosses his arms and turn dramatically to his co-worker. "That is precisely the reason for my empire-conquering smile."

"More like annoyingly ugly." Signora huffed and began walking out to proceed with her business and leave her fellow Harbingers to listen in on the ginger's boastings.

"That article made my wife jealous."

Columbina who previously had no interest turned to the ginger but her interest wasn't in him but his wife - now why would this blood-lusting lunatic be talking about his wife in that manner?

"Did our expedition in Fontaine take that long that we returned to an evolved Tartaglia?" Columbina asked, not really expecting an answer from anyone. She doubts anyone of them would be able to explain the absurdity that is taking place.

"No one cares, go do your job." Scaramouche deadpans.

"Hush!  World domination can come later, I must celebrate this win."

Pulcinella chuckled from his seat, making all the heads in the room turn to him. They had failed to realize he was there. "And I was under the impression that this was a marriage of convenience arranged by her Majesty."

Well, that's what it was supposed to be.

Chapter Text

A day passed of them not talking. Lumine being on edge while Childe was away, doing work, whatever it is. She's been going about her day like usual with Keqing's assistance but there is a nagging feeling at the back of her head.

Like a signal blaring and clawing at her to move, to run.

From what? She does not know. So she stays still, in that giant Duchy and acting as if she didn't feel like the whole world is shaking around her while she remained absolutely still.

"Your Grace, would another trip to the marketplace ease your mind?" Keqing kindly offered while pouring her freshly brewed tea. Lumine shook her head slowly, the offer was tempting, but with the way things are now... it'd be safer to stay at home.

"No need. I shall remain here."

Keqing kept quiet, her worried glances remained unseen by her master as she stayed ever so loyal, standing behind her. Lumine drank the tea, allowing the warm liquid to soothe her itching throat.

This is no good. Something is wrong and she has no clue why.

Childe lowered his gaze to the floor as he presented himself before her Majesty. Her icy glare regarded him boredly. She picked up the Duke when he was but a child, barely a baby bird able to leave its nest because she saw potential in him and he did not disappoint.

Not even once... until now.

"So what is it now about you and the Baroness?" The Queen asked, her voice echoed through the dark and empty halls and it never failed to send shivers down Childe's back. She is as powerful as ever and it's always a pleasure to appear before her.

Childe clears his throat. "Forgive me for my oversight, your Majesty. That rumour is nothing but tales spun by those hungry for gossip, I wouldn't dare cheat on the Wife her Majesty especially picked for me."

The Queen laughed, though there was no humor in it. Her voice and presence cold. "An apology would not suffice, you know that."

Childe kept his gaze cast down to the smooth marbled floor of her palace. "I do. I accept any punishment."

The Queen hummed, resting her chin on her knuckles before her lips stretched into a wicked grin. 

"For your punishment, I suggest about 4 hours in the abyss. You're well-acquainted with that place, are you not?" She remained smiling. "Surely you can handle more."

Childe felt as if a cold bucket of water had been dumped on him at the mention of that place. But he said nothing more.

"Your marriage to that insignificant princess was to weaken your power, to lower the 
Imperial Family's guards. You, such a powerful Duke in terms of wealth and influence, choosing to marry someone useless is to get them off our tracks. Being rumoured to be with a Lady from a prestigious family background will do the exact opposite."

Childe slowly lifts his gaze, meeting those bright blue hues of her. They're so clear, so bright, almost as if looking into a block of ice. "I understand, I shall repent and accept a fitting punishment."

"I'm glad you do. Now go, four hours is me being lenient for you are my youngest. Don't disappoint me again."

Childe nods and pays his respects before swiftly turning around to leave. A few fatui agents greeted him upon exiting the throne room of her palace. "Master Tartaglia, we are here to escort you to the abyss."

The Abyss is a place that sucks out every light, every happiness and every human emotion one could possibly have. He conquered it for a full month as a child but the toll it took was great. So great that it left something in him that continued to fester and rot.

Something the Queen called power, while he called a curse.

He followed them without complaint, knowing he deserved it. Four hours is nothing compared to the weeks he used to spent here before but - it all accumulates. His time spent there continues to chip away at his humanity bit by bit and for some reasons, he cares.

Perhaps it's because he has such a small and fragile wife back home that he can't ever afford to hurt, or just that he's grown to learn the importance of his humanity throughout the years as he grew older. . .it matters not.

He stands before the portal, eyeing the swirls of black and purple as it invited him in. It wasn't that long ago when he used the Foul  Legacy, he has no clue how a mere 4 hours into the darkness would affect him.

As he stepped in, he had only one thought in his mind as the darkness began devouring him. 

-"Beautiful."

"The Duke calls for you, your grace." Her lady in waiting Keqing told her.

Lumine frowned hearing those words. He rarely called for her, even when they'd greet each other in the halls they barely met gazes and now he's calling for her during her afternoon tea?

"Did something happen?" She asked, her eyebrows furrowing deeper and the wrinkle on her forehead was very much evident now. She's nervous.

"I haven't heard of any commotion, Duchess. I'm afraid this might be one of his Grace's whims." Keqing replied, honest as she's always been and kept her gaze lowered.

"What to do?" Lumine got up and examined her reflection. She looks well enough for a Duchess in her green afternoon dress but she were to meet the duke so she signalled for Keqing who perked up from her spot. "Dress me in something else."

Keqing understood her assignment and brought out one of Lumine's best dresses, courtesy of the Duke and began dressing the Duchess in it. Retouching her makeup and fixing the jewels in her hair swiftly.

"I've no idea why he's calling for me, but do you think it has anything to do with the rumours?" Lumine gulped.

After that weird encounter at dinner, he was called away yet again and was gone for 2 days. She failed to greet him in his return because he came back in the middle of the night while she was deep in her slumber.

"Do you mean the rumours of him and the Baroness?" Keqing asked, walking behind the Duchess who tried not to run in her tracks.

"If he wants a divorce then it would be perfectly fine to just send me a letter or have a maid to deliver the news." Lumine bit the inside of her cheeks, something she does when she is worried and she wondered if one day she would draw blood. "I wouldn't throw a fit about him having mistresses, either."

She says that while ignoring the heavy feeling in her chest that seemed to never want to leave. It appeared along with the article and has yet to leave her.

"The Baroness was known to be eyeing the Duke since her debut into society, surely she wouldn't be too shameless to openly flirt with a married man." Keqing tried easing the nerves of her Lady but it was to no avail. She's already relied the information about the Baroness and her connection to the Duke.

Lumine's heart was pounding. She was worried for her safety and comfort. She's adjusted well into her life as a Duchess, leaving the years of abuse and neglect in that horrible castle behind her. She can't afford to have all this taken away now.

She can bear the humiliation of being a Duchess who isn't loved by her husband. Just don't throw her back into that castle to rot again. And she's already informed him she can take their judgement and mockery, she cares not for her image as long as she can keep everythign she's worked hard for so far.

"I don't care if he even brings 10 women into my chambers and bed them while I watched," Lumine gritted her teeth. "I need the title of the Duchess and to remain here."

Keqing understood then and stayed quiet, hoping for the best as their stroll through the halls ended and she moved to open the door. Clearing her throat to announce their arrival.

"Her Grace, the Duchess, is now entering."

The door opened. Lumine walked in wearily but she still kept her composure, refusing to appear weak under the intense gaze of her husband, contrary to the image she showed him at dinner when she was caught off guard. She should learn to steel herself if she were to make sure she keeps her position.

She refused to look weak to anyone, even to him. Being small was a feeling she hated the most in the world but it is a fact that she is weak - now she stands so proudly in front of him. He found the change pleasant, as much as he thought she looks adorable when she tries to appear smaller - he did not like being feared. Not by her.

"You called for me. Why?"

"I don't even get a greeting, I see." Childe grinned sarcastically.

"Greetings." Lumine clicked her tongue. "You asked for me. Why?"

Childe paused, turning his gaze towards her and frowned. "You're nervous," his amusement couldn't be concealed behind his feigned concern for her. "Why?"

"I'm quite sure I asked you first, your Grace." Lumine. Her facade is slowly breaking, the act she's put up as a firm and brave Duchess is slowly slipping away the longer she holds eye contact with him. All the alarms are now blaring, every nerve in her body is screaming at her to run away but she stood firm.

Childe gestured for Keqing to leave and the maid did as she was told without another word, now it was only them in his study and the anticipation was killing her. Lumine just wanted to get it over with. If she was being thrown out, then he might as well just do it already and not torture her like this.

"No need to be so hostile toward me, Duchess. I'm your husband."

Lumine's eye twitched, is it from irritation or fear? She's not certain. But something is different, when he came back home after leaving for work - there was something dark looming around him.  "My apologies, I'm just very eager to hear whatever his Grace has to say."

Childe bit his lip to bit back a giant grin. He could see how her hand was twitching, she was fighting the urge to maybe punch him or hit something from frustration, and her very forced smile was a sight to see.

But he took pity on her.

Deciding to stop prolonging her curiosity and delivering the news.

"I'm renewing our contract."

Lumine let out a defeated sigh. Here it is, she really was being thrown out but she's not going back to that place.

"I'll be a commoner or a maid for Archons' sake, just don't escort me back to the palace." Lumine pleaded, she fell on her knees as she got tired of fighting their wobbling and buckling. Her act completely disintegrating into thin air as she crumbled down to her very core of being a helpless Princess. "I can disappear from your life forever and you'd never see my face again, just don't bring me back."

Childe was at loss for words, he did not expect her to react like that and what even is she saying about being a commoner and disappearing? Despite that, his grin remained.

"You seem to have made such terrible assumptions, Duchess. I'm renewing our contract." Childe got up and approached her, lifting her chin with his fingers so he can keep her eyes on him. This time unable to hold himself back from the emotions gnawing and clawing at him every time he would look at her. "I'm renewing it so that you'll be forced to stay with me forever. Seeing as you seem to be very hesitant to go back to your Kingdom, then you'll have no choice but to sign it, yes?"

Lumine could feel it. The intensity of his gaze and his grip on her chin. He was looking at her like she was something he now owned and intended to break.

But so far, her life as a Duchess has been the best in all her existence. As long as she'll no longer be beaten, starved and abandoned then she can bear whatever her husband decides to do to her.

All for her survival.

Lumine turned her head to the side to free her chin from Childe's grip. "What are your new conditions?"

"The new contract will basically nullify everything in the past contract."

"Why are you doing this so suddenly?"

Childe darts his tounge out and slides it across his bottom lip. "I've fallen madly inlove with you."

Lumine's eye twitched again. He must have gone completely mad. She angrily got up from her spot on the floor and marched closer to him, glaring as if this man wasn't a threat to her. "You suppose I'd believe that? Why are you toying with me?" He failed to answer. Rather enjoying the swift changes in her moods, one moment she's on her knees begging and the next she's glaring so fiercely as if she has nothing to fear. He truly does admire her courage despite how utterly weak she is. "I've been good! I've done my duties well and did right by the Duchy. Why?"

He still remained quiet and she wracked her brain looking for answers.

"Is it because of that night? During the Tsaritsa's Winter Ball?" Lumine asked, searching Childe's eyes for any hint, and the glint in them proved her right. "I told you I would keep quiet. You need not worry about my lips being loose and -"

Lumine couldn't say more when Childe pulled her in, his lips interrupting hers in a heated and very passionate kiss. Despite her troubled mind and the messy situation they are in, she instinctively responded. 

Wrapping her arms around his neck to tug him down lower and parting her lips to welcome his tongue. Childe's gloved hand wrapped around her waist before sliding down lower to then lift her up, making her let out the cutest yelp as he walked over to his desk and sit her down. His lips did not leave hers even once.