As twilight paints the sky in soft purples and golds, Zhongli finds himself facing an unexpectedly challenging task. Baby Xiao continues to fuss restlessly in his arms, tiny fists waving and soft whimpers filling the quiet study. The Geo Archon adjusts his hold, cradling the infant closer to his chest as he moves between the towering bookshelves with practiced grace. His golden eyes scan the leather-bound volumes, searching for something soothing to read aloud—perhaps an old poem or gentle tale that might finally lull the little one to sleep.