Lumine sank into the unyielding bed, her brow deeply furrowed. Even in heavy sleep, her knuckles remained slightly curled, as if ready to grip a sword hilt at any moment. Dark, heavy circles were branded into her pale skin like a pair of ominous bruises. A shallow graze on her temple had crusted into a dark red scab, and strands of hair stuck to her sweat-dampened temples. Faint footsteps outside made her start violently, her eyes snapping open instantly, residual panic lingering in her amber pupils. Without a moment's hesitation, she rolled over and sat up, her movements swift yet carrying an unmistakable stiffness. Splashing cold water on her face, she hastily freshened up; the mirror reflected a face etched with hardship and exhaustion. Pushing open the bedroom door, Ganyu was already standing quietly in the corridor, the frost-encrusted Qilin horns nestled in her blue hair gleaming with a chilling luster in the dim light.
"Lady Keqing and the Acting Grand Master Jean are already waiting in the council chamber," Ganyu said softly, her voice carrying an undeniable urgency. Lumine nodded silently, wrapped her dust-stained cloak tightly around herself, and followed her into the deep corridors at the heart of the Serenitea Pot.
The heavy carved wooden doors closed behind them, shutting out the outside light. Inside the council chamber, elemental crystal lamps emitted a steady yet slightly oppressive glow, illuminating the solemn faces seated around the long table. Keqing sat…
Chapter 95