leaveofabsence | Imeeji Inbox

Caeli; Xiansheng, would you like to go to dinner?

Glaze Lily: Of course.
Glaze Lily: I would love to.

[ And then after a very very long Glaze Lily is typing... sequence. ]

Glaze Lily: 💛

Caeli; Meet me @

[ and he marks a spot on the map. ]

Caeli; 💕 I’ll see you soon, Xiansheng.

[ Ah, he cannot seem to find a symbol for three hearts. ]

Glaze Lily: I will see you shortly.

[ And he preens for just a few minutes (give or take ten) before heading out to the location Childe has specified. ]

[ zhongli is going to find himself at a temple! lanterns light the path, so zhongli will get to see the gold petals sprinkled on it. in the temple, itself, is childe ( and he's looking a bit different, feminine ) in some fancy-ish outfit emet-selch helped him pick out. it's been repurposed, with a mix of gold, brown, blue, and white colored pillows, blankets, silks, and other random decor. it definitely looks like he's spent a few hours setting this up. ]

[ there's a small table at the center with some food spread out on it, a mix of snezhnayan and liyuan cuisine... the latter of which he tried his very best to make and it actually looks halfway decent. ]

Xiansheng!

[ At first, he just stands shellshocked in the entryway - glancing first at Childe, then at the banquet spread in front of him, the temple itself and then the sprinkle of golden petals underneath his feet.

He crosses the threshhold but instead of sitting in his spot at the table, he kneels down next to Childe, cupping his face tenderly in his hands. ]

You're wonderful.

[ And presses his lips to Childe's forehead. ]

[ smiles, face coloring a light pink as he moves his hands atop zhongli's. ] I wanted to do something special. It's been a while... and I might have wanted to show off a little. [ since he'd accidentally a potion. ] But, come, look. [ he gets to his feet and tugs zhongli back along to the lanterns. ]

[ there's a little story from first to last, a crude story about a narwhal and a dragon. it starts off with the two meeting, fighting, but eventually falling in love... the final lantern showing off the two of them in a yan yang symbol. ]

I figure we can kind of... take this place for us. It's not like anybody else was using it.

[ Zhongli is pointedly looking up and down Childe's new figure, but if he doesn't want to explain why then he's hesitant to push him to tell him. Such things are best volunteered freely.

More importantly, he is leaning forward to carefully examine each lantern, fingertips tracing along the images ever so carefully.

There's a warm smile at the sight of them curled around each other in the last image.

He turns to Childe: ]

Did you make these? Or were they here originally?

[ and he'll explain in a bit. he's just excited to show zhongli all of the things he prepared for him tonight. it took a long time to make the lanterns! and that's not counting the time spent fucking it all up. ] I made them. It took forever, because the material is so fragile, but it was well worth it to see your face, Xiansheng.

Aaaand speaking of your reactions... what do you think? [ makes a sweeping motion over himself. ] A happy little accident, this.

[ The words catch in his throat.

How long Childe must have prepared for this? How excited he is to show it to him? How much he wants to please Zhongli and make him happy? ]

Yes, I can see that. I can't imagine---

Childe, this must have taken so long to prepare all of this.

[ And he reaches out to pull Childe close, face buried against the side of his neck. ]

You're beautiful. As always.

And so special.

Edited 2021-11-21 02:22 (UTC)

I’ll admit the lantern thing had been something I was planning for a while, so I didn’t do aaaall that tonight. I just kind of thought a date night would be nice, and I wanted to spend tonight with you. Here.

[ he brings a hand to zhongli’s back, rubbing as his smile widens. ] I did decorate this evening though… and make the food, which was probably the most difficult thing. [ chuckles, trying to bring him back inside. ]

It’s different, but I… I don’t hate it. [ kisses his cheek. ] I’m glad you like it though.

Of course I like it. I would like you in any form, Ajax. How beautiful you look in each transformation is just one of your endearing qualities.

But ah--- You spent so much time on the meal.

[ And he kisses Childe's cheek in turn ]

We should endeavor to not let all of your hard work go to waste.

[ colors, because zhongli compliments are some of his favorites! ] Sure, but then after… [ nips at him, snickering. ] Come. [ tugs him over to the table, taking a seat and grabbing his chopsticks ( the set zhongli got him ). ] Allow me, Xiansheng.

[ time to show off how good he’s gotten, probably only messing up once or twice. ]

[ Hit sits down next to Childe, patiently waiting for him to feed him at least a morsel or two before picking up his own chopsticks and offering one of the dumplings to Childe in turn. ]

Ah, but Snezhnayan food is not eaten with chopsticks, correct?

[ childe manages to avoid dropping a SINGLE THING. be impressed. he does set his own down to eat the offered dumpling and then he's excitedly moving the snezhnayan dish front and center - chicken kiev and buttered pasta. ] Knife and a fork! [ he'll cut the chicken in half... and then in half again, stabbing the bite and holding it out to zhongli. ]

It's so good, Xiansheng. It's one of my favorite dishes. [ besides his own seafood stew, of course. ]

[ He places his hand on top of Childe's, curling his fingers gently to steady the fork before he leans forward and uses his teeth to pull it from the utensil. He chews thoughtfully, eyebrows furrowed as he tries to place each and every ingredient used before licking his lips with a satisfied smile. ]

I can see why that is.

[ And he looks over at Childe's plate. ]

Might I be allowed to do the same for you?

[ he is real tempted to kiss him and make a stupid comment about how a little zhongli elevates the dish, but he refrains, SOMEHOW... instead smiling and nodding. ] Of course, Xiansheng. I love it when you spoil me.

[ He reaches over to cut the chicken on Childe's plate - mimicking his actions with perhaps a little less force. One of the pieces of chicken is then carefully pierced as he holds it up to Childe's mouth, other hand cupped underneath it to prevent any juice from spilling on the table. ]

Should I perhaps spoil you without asking then?

Does that enhance the experience?

Xiansheng... you never have to ask. And, I'll admit, it is kind of nice having something like this sprung on you, don't you agree? A real pleasant surprise.

[ he noms the bite of chicken and once he's through chewing he takes zhongli's hand, the one that had been cupped underneath, and licks any excess juices off it. ]

[ He does his best to look stern as he taps a finger against Childe's lip with a tsking sound. ]

No.

We are finishing our meal first, Ajax, or we will never come back to it.

I know how this works.

[ He brings Childe's hand to his lips so he can kiss along the knuckles sweetly. ]

Please.

Fine fine fiiiine. [ childe chuckles and picks up the chopsticks, leaving zhongli to man the fork. ] I'll take care of all the chopsticking! [ grabs another dumpling and offers it to zhongli. ] Here, Xiansheng... let's finish the food so we can get to the fun stuff.

[ Zhongli patiently waits then for each bite offered to him by Childe via chopsticks and respectfully does not touch his own.

Though he does press a napkin into both their laps to protect their clothing of most of the slosh and spill.

On occasion, he does swipe a piece of Snezhnayan food with his fork to offer it to Childe so he also does not go hungry. ]

[ childe does real well all things considered-! he doesn't drop a single piece of food, and instead just gets to enjoy it all. ] How do you like the food, Xiansheng. I know I shared some Snezhnayan food with you during our double date, but I never got to ask you what you thought.

It is quite a heavy cuisine - I can see how it is meant to be filling and nutritious in a land that is perhaps not as hospitable as any other countries. And as such, there is a rustic and warm charm to it that I believe exemplifies the term home cooking.

[ He picks a leftover piece of it deftly with his chopsticks and chews thoughtfully. ]

My main critique is the overabundance of bread and breading in the dishes.

Hah! Bread is filling and, like you said, Snezhnaya isn't known for its fresh produce. We import a lot of that kind of stuff, because of the colder climate. [ but because of its place on the tech scale snezhnaya can manage just fine, having found a number of ways around the hindrance of cold weather. ]

We should make a recipe book of our favorites and then see if we can't combine a couple!

Yes. Later.

[ Now that the meal is done, he can carefully set the cutlery down and not so carefully pull Childe into his lap. ]

For the moment, though, I have other priorities.

[ loops his arms around zhongli's neck and drags him into a kiss. ]

I'm glad to have your undivided attention, Xiansheng. Tonight you're mine and mine alone.

[ He huffs into the kiss, careful not too laugh out loud at the statement. ]

I am always yours. And you will always be mine. The bond we share can never be replaced by any other.

However---

[ One hands gently cups the swell of Childe's breast. ]

If you are not bothered by it, perhaps we should enjoy this happy accident to its fullest.

[ his smile broadens as he gently bonks their foreheads together, his eyes closing as he simply basks in the excess of happiness hearing that makes him feel. ]

[ all of that is interrupted by a startled yelp, one that swiftly turns into a broken moan at the touch to his breast. his eyes snap open and he grabs zhongli’s wrist, fingers trembling as he gives a quick shake of the head. ] I’m not bothered by it. [ he leans in to kiss him again, grip loosening. ] Your touch is already enough to make me melt.

[ His eyes widen in surprise at just how sensitive Childe was to the touch. Over a layer of fabric is well.

But that surprise melts into something that looks halfway appreciative and a little bit more teasing. ]

I can see.

I suppose I should treat you with more care today to avoid you burning up too quick.

D- Don’t make that face, Xiansheng! [ and his comment doesn’t help, his face coloring a few different shades of red as he looks a cross between offended and embarrassed. ] You don’t need to be careful with me, I can take it, I actually like it rough!

[ He gives Childe an appraising look, eyes traveling greedily along the length of him as he cups the back of Childe's head with one palm. ]

Very well. But - I have no interest in ruining this lovely garment you have acquired.

[ And he shoves Childe down roughly among the cushions and blankets ]

The only thing I wish to ruin is you.

[ n- not helping! he averts his eyes and half laughs, squirming against the hands pinning him in place. ] I’d like to be ruined, but if you’d like the keep my clothing in tact it may be wise to remove it sooner than later. [ and zhongli will find that chikde is exceedingly eager for him, already thoroughly wet. ]

[ He glances around at their surroundings and deems it to be suitably private enough that Zhongli starts unwrapping Childe like a Christmas present, steady and not necessarily gently - but with enough care not to tear the wrapping.

Gloved hands stroke at every piece of bared skin, especially his chest as he runs the flat of his palm against Childe's new "assets." ]

. . .

[ he should have just removed his clothing himself, since zhongli is going to meticulously remove each piece of the outfit, all while inadvertently ( ??? ) driving him up the wall. ]

Wh- What do you think? [ if he wasn't red before he's red now, zhongli's scrutinizing gaze somehow making his embarrassment spike as tries to act as nonchalant about it as possible. ~~it's not working~~. ]

[ He peels back each individual layer, draping them beneath Childe. Extra padding to go along with the provided cushions. ]

You're beautiful.

[ And he brushes a kiss against that blush, hands roaming lower across the curve of his sides. He avoids the mark completely. ]

In this form as you are in any other.

[ reaching for zhongli’s cheek he guides him into a kiss, one that’s soft, slow, and deliberate. as much as he enjoys the frantic and frenzied pace at which they normally do things ( his own fault most of the time ) he wants to drag this out for as long as can be. his other hand gently paws at zhongli’s own clothes, and whine finally breaking the kiss. ] You’re wearing way too much, Xiansheng. You should unwrap yourself for me.

Of course. Whatever you wish.

[ And Zhongli sits back on his heels, tugging at the many clasps and zippers and buttons on his outfit to shed them like a snake shedding their skin. Unlike his usual meticulous folding, however, he drapes the fabric around them - surrounding Childe in a warm nest of warm clothing. ]

Comfortable?

[ he turns his head to bury his face in one of the garments draped around him, reveling in zhongli’s scent and letting that ( and his presence ) completely encapsulate him. ] Very.

Good. Allow me to remedy that.

[ He dips his head low, horns purposefully scraping along the length of Childe's jaw before thumbing over one breast and placing his mouth over the other, teeth scraping against the sensitive bud. ]

[ grabs a hold of zhongli’s shoulders and starts rocking into him, a lewd moan spilling out as he tends to his chest. ] Xiansheng. It’s a lot, so much, feels good… [ murmurs a few more broken sentences as he moves one of his hands to his head, cradling it to keep him buried in his chest. ]

[ Well, that is all the encouragement that Zhongli needs. He does nothing but nod his approval against Childe's hand while he continues to lap at the peaks with languid wet warmth just rough enough for it to tingle along the lines of pleasure and pain. ]

If... if this keeps up I, Xiansheng... I, I'm going t- to... to cum... [ childe digs his nails in just a little bit harder, puffing out his chest to completely encapsulate in his soft chest. ] I don't want it to, to, ah, to... [ what is forming a complete sentence right now? ]

[ Zhongli stops abruptly, pulling back to kiss gently at Childe's collarbone in an attempt to calm him down. ]

Yes?

[ He smooths a hand down Childe's side. ]

You don't want it to---?

End. End fastly… I mean quickly. [ he needs a moment. ] I want to come when you’re inside of me, Xiansheng. Not before. [ even if it’s possible to come multiple times he still wants to lose himself to being filled. ]

Ah.

[ And even his hands still on Childe's skin ]

All right. Can you calm down for me then, my precious Ajax?

[ He lifts one hand to place a kiss on his palm ]

So that we may proceed according to your desire.

I can, I- I think, ...yeah. [ huffs a laugh, because he feels like he's losing his mind. turns his hand around to cup zhongli's face, attempting to drag him up for a kiss. ] Yes, b- but first... kiss me, please, kiss me Xiansheng.

[ He smiles back warmly, fondly as he leans into Childe's touch ]

Of course. For you. I would kiss you as many times as you like.

[ And he wraps his arms around Childe's shoulders in turn and kisses him well until he is breathless and sated. ]

...don't, don't stop. [ zhongli manages to satisfy him, leaving childe panting for breath and moving his arm to drape over his eyes. he huffs a laugh, shuddering beneath zhongli. ] Will you fill me, Xiansheng... I want you. I need you. Don't make me... make me beg...

[ The kisses continue as Childe shifts beneath some drifting to his nose and cheeks and others to the offered palm and fingers. ]

You do not have to beg, beloved. You never have to beg.

[ A hand trails down between Childe's legs, fingers gently and carefully exploring so as to not overstimulate him. Rough he promised, but Zhongli has no intention of entering him without him being properly slicked up. Luckily Wild City traits help with that department.

He coats his fingers in the liquid, working Childe open even further with precise scissoring motions. ]

There you are. So perfect for me.

[ And a gentle tug on the arm covering his eyes. ]

Will you let me see your beautiful face?

But I… I can. [ he huffs a laugh and tries cracking a smile, but it’s swiftly faltering to zhongli’s fingers. he spreads his legs as far open as he can, shuddering to the contact as zhongli works him open. ] For… Xiansheng, yes. [ childe arches his back, his arm sliding away to reveal his red face, shining eyes, and quivering lip. ] …I’m ready, Zhongli, p- please.

[ Zhongli kisses him right underneath one of those shining eyes as he works off the clothes wrapped around his own lower half.

It takes a beat to strip. Another to use Childe's slick to lube him up efficiently - whether Childe wanted it rough or not, there was some procedure he would always follow.

And then with soft sweet words whispered into Childe's ear, gentle praise and honeyed promises, he slides himself in to give Childe exactly what he wants. ]

[ childe cries out as he's entered, squirming beneath zhongli as the feelings swiftly overwhelm him. he tries to move a leg around him, to pull him closer and to force him deeper. ] Ah, Xiansheng, you're going to, I'm... [ a breathless laugh as his head lolls to the side, a fond smile turning up his lips. ] I'll come if you keep all that up. [ re; the praise and the promises. ]

[ Zhongli's pace is measured, steady and constant as they move their hips in tandem with Childe's. Gentle fingers traverse across the leg around his waist, the touch soothing and soft. ]

Of course.

Is this not what we both desire?

You asked that I be inside of you, and I have granted your plea. And I wish nothing more than to see the pleasure overtake you. To feel as warm and love as you deserve to be.

And to overwhelm if you if you try to deny yourself any of it.

My beautiful precious Ajax.

[ the color of childe's face turns a couple shades darker as he nibbles on his bottom lip, stalling and attempting to buy a couple of extra seconds as he kick starts his brain, so he can respond with something halfway coherent. a laugh bubbles up first though, and he stares at zhongli sidelong and through his bangs. ]

Of- Of course, Zhongli. I can't get enough and that... and that's why I don't want it to end just yet. I like, no... no I love this. How you feel so close to me. Inside of me. How it's all just so... perfect. I love it, and you too, I love you Zhongli Xiansheng.

[ is he overwhelmed,
absolutely. ]

[ The day after Monster Bingo, whenever Zhongli happens to step out of HSS dorm . . .

He'll find a single cecilia flower, stem and all, laid innocent upon the threshold. There's no note, of course. ]

[ There is no note.

But who else would give him this particular flower.

Venti gets a text ]

Glaze Lily: Are you free at the moment?

🌸🌼🌻🌷🌺🌹🍃: I am for you! ♪

Glaze Lily: Good.
Glaze Lily: Meet me outside.

🌸🌼🌻🌷🌺🌹🍃: As the gentleman requests!

[ And flighty as he is, he's true to his word. He can be found perched on the back of a bench outside, tuning a small zither. ]

[ Approaches from behind the bench ]

A zither this time, is it?

[ He doesn't startle. Perhaps the wind told him Zhongli was coming. ]

To properly play any tune, the musician must have all the appropriate instruments! Surely someone of your high standards for the arts can understand.

[ The cecilia is tucked carefully over one ear as he also leans over the back of the bench, wrists folded as he watches Venti play. ]

It is something I can understand to a degree. Music was always your forte, not mine.

[ He glances over, slight grin forming when he spots the cecilia. ]

Well, you can't be good at everything.

[ He sets the instrument aside, though. ]

Thank you for the gift.

Might I in turn do something for you as well?

Ohhhh, something for the bard?

Well, how can I possibly say no!

[ He offers a hand to help Venti down from his perch on the bench. ]

[ Takes it, hopping down lightly ]

Well then, where to Mr. Zhongli?

It has been a while since the two of us have taken a stroll, has it not?

I am not as knowledgeable about Tokyo-F as I am of Liyue, but I have been studying what I can.

Feeling nostalgic, old man?

[ Looping his arm with Zhongli's ]

I would love to. I'm sure you're practically an expert already.

[ Heading toward the direction of the mall. Never mind it's a multiple hour walk. ]

The Game Tower is actually fashioned after the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, which is said to be the tallest city hall on Earth - the name of the star that this world seems to be emulating. And the area were are in right now - Shinjuku and neighboring Shibuya - are districts quite known for their marketplaces. Hubs of the city as it were.

[ He talks on and on about the historical significance of some buildings, the type of flowers and animals they come across, as well as generous amounts of praise given to the transportation system. ]

I'm thinking about procuring a vehicle myself at some point. A former unitmate of mine did teach me how to drive.

Eh?! --Their town hall is that big?

Goodness, what do they even do inside all of these massive buildings?

The populations of these mortal cities reach well into the millions. Certainly a number much larger than any one if not all of the cities of Teyvat combined.

Could you imagine presiding over such an assembly . . . ? I'm tired just thinking of it!

No, I do not think I could properly oversee so many in a way that would be fair to everyone.

I do not know if any one being could.

[ And he gives a little tug on Venti's arm, ducking down a street with more greens and trees even if it is only a small square park (no bigger than a building) squished between two skyscrapers of apartments. ]

[ His expression lights up the moment they come into contact with actual nature. Even if the buildings block the breeze, at least there are plants, and birds . . . ]

--Aha! These hidden corners are without a doubt my favorites in the city. In fact, I've found a few spots where they seem to have built tributes to the largest and oldest of the trees!

Is that so? Perhaps they do take offer tribute to dendro in their own unique way...

[ It is said in a thoughtful tone as he continues to pull Venti toward the small patch of park - lined on one side with a bench presumably for people to enjoy this small bit of nature or for parents to watch over their children. ]

Do you have a favorite among them?

[ Venti follows along -- though Zhongli's arm is tugged upward as he leaps up onto a raised stone wall, continuing the walk atop it ]

Of course! Where do you think I go to compose?

Coffee shops.

I believe I read that it a good place for inspiration in the modern world.

Really?

Hmmm, perhaps I should get with the times . . .

. . .Have you even been to the tea shop here?

Ummm . . .

[ Is there alcohol there?

No?

. . .

The silence speaks for itself. ]

It's quiet good. They offer quite the variety of teas that are more desserts than what you might find in Liyue.

Fruit teas as well.

I think you would rather like them.

Fruit teas, huh . . . ?

Well, I'll try anything that comes so highly recommended at least once.

Caeli; Please come to Wild City.

Glaze Lily: I will be there shortly.

[ And within 15 minutes, there is a knock on Wild City's door ]

[ as soon as there's a knock the door swings open and childe grabs zhongli's hand and tugs him inside, moving straight to his room. ] Hey Xiansheng. [ sorry for the abruptness of all of this. ]

[ Trying to check him over discreetly for any obvious sign of injury. Spoiler, Zhongli is not very discreet about this.

His easily follows Childe wherever he wants to take him. ]

Good morning, Childe. You seem to be a bit distressed.

[ on reaching his room he drops his hand. ] Because I might be a little distressed. [ he's a lot distressed. ] Come into the bathroom with me. [ shoves the door open and steps inside, turning his back to the mirror and fluffing up his hair; a streak of glittering purples and blues sitting among that mess of orange. ] I noticed this this morning.

Ah.

[ And he reaches out to touch one of those darker strands. These are way more apparent than your one blonde streak, Childe. ]

Do you feel unwell?

I... don't know. I think I feel alright? I haven't stopped to think about it until now.

Then nothing painful or uncomfortable enough to be immediately noticeable.

[ He cards his hand through Childe's hair again, trying to capture one of those off-colored locks between his two fingers ]

Did anything happen recently? Perhaps unsavory contact with one of the fans? Or I noticed that there were advanced cases of sofaform for those who were not fulfilling the fan requests, but nothing that would explain---

New colors.

No. [ he brings a hand to his mask, fingering its edges and then moving along to find a few cracks that still haven’t recovered since the game. ] My mask is still damaged, …maybe the long recovery time is having a negative effect… [ he steps closer, so zhongli can do so more easily. the hair strands look almost like a galaxy; swirls of stars and purples and blues and even reds on it. ]

I have been avoiding them. I didn’t have any requests to fulfill. I’ve been keeping to myself for the past few days. [ he hasn’t really gone out. ]

Then I suppose we can safely rule out the last game if you had no requests to contribute to outside of the generic ones appealing to your unit.

[ He pulls out his phone to take a quick picture of the colored strands for research purpose later.

Also to see if it gets any worse. ]

The mask might be a good starting point then. Are there things that can be done to ease your recovery? If you have kept to yourself and that has not helped, perhaps interaction with others might assist.

Allow me to take you out on a date.

...mm. [ hums, fingering it just a little more, because he's #concerned. it's like back home in a sense, how excessive use of the foul legacy tired him. here, it seems to be affecting his body in other, more obvious, ways. or so he thinks. ] I... maybe. Probably? [ ...he's not interested in being around people, since there's a strong possibility he'll bump into the people that traversed his head or whatever. ] Fishing. [ ice fishing. ] ...though, if you've got something else in mind, then I don't mind doing that.

You would know what is best for you in terms of healing. If ice fishing sounds the most appealing, then ice fishing is what we shall do.

[ He puts his hands on Childe's shoulders ]

Wait here. I will go collect our clothing and supplies.

...alright, though I do have a number of supplies for the ice fishing, itself, at the cabin. You can just focus on making sure you're going to be able to deal with the cold.

Very well. I will just grab our winter clothing then.

[ And he disappears into Childe's room where surely by this point Zhongli has a number of coats and gloves and scarves he can choose from. After wrapping himself up warmly, he returns to the bathroom to start helping Childe into his own set of coat, gloves, scarf and hat. ]

[ childe accepts the help but doesn't let zhongli do all the work... and he also doesn't want to put too much on. he doesn't have to. the cold doesn't bother him. but as soon as the both of them are in their clothes he takes his hand and heads into the vault to get to the dorm upgrade. ]

We can relax in the cabin afterward. I won't make you stay out on the ice all day.

[ He reaches over to trace the back of his knuckles down Childe's cheek. ]

Thank you.

I would like that.

[ And he leans forward to kiss him softly. ]

[ blushes, taking zhongli's hand as they kiss and giving it a squeeze. ] Just let me know when you'd like to head in, alright, don't try to weather the storm for me. [ time to go to the cabin and collect the supplies! ]

[ Time to go to the cabin and collect the supplies!

Zhongli holds out his mittens for some of them as Childe pulls them out from the various cupboards. ]

I would gladly weather the storm for you. But perhaps more importantly, I would even more gladly tell you when I was done with the cold.

I will let you know when I can no longer feel my nose.

[ childe starts packing supplies up! handing a few things here and there to zhongli. ] I don't think we'll be out there *that* long, if it's any consolation, but I'll also do my best to keep your nose warm. [ leans over to kiss it. ]

Izanagi: I'm in the lobby

Glaze Lily: I shall be there shortly.
Glaze Lily: Please give me five minutes.

Izanagi: Ok

[He will in fact just wait there, staring off into the distance somewhere.]

[ He shows up in exactly five minutes and once he finds Izanagi in the lobby, immediately shoves a motorcycle helmet in his hands ]

Ready to go?

[He now has a motorcycle helmet in his hands.]

-Okay?

[ He smiles warmly all the same. ]

Put that on. We're going for a ride.

[ He says - putting his own helmet on. ]

Alright.

[On goes the helmet! He still looks mildly confused about this though.]

[ If Zhongli notices his confusion, he does not mention it.

He does look Izanagi over from head to toe though. Is he dressed appropriately for the outdoors? ]

[He's in all sensitIV clothes - a windbreaker over a hoodie, warm fleece leggings, and pink boots decorated with hearts.]

[ Warm enough. ]

Come. My motorcycle is parked just outside.

[ And he'll lead him outside to just that. ]

[Following!]

Is it far?

[Just the mildest sense of curiosity, tail swaying behind him.]

Not too far. Just enough to require a motor vehicle.

If you would like to drive, I do not mind handing you the keys. I am still quite a novice to modern technology.

I can drive. Where to?

[This is probably fine.]

A very specific convivence store.

[ The one with the very best seasonal stuff. ]

I can ping you the location.

[ Which he does. On his phone. ]

[He looks at his phone, studying it for a full moment before putting it away and nodding.]

Okay. I'll get us there.

Thank you, Izanagi.

[ And he'll wait until Izanagi mounts the motorcycle before climbing on behind him. ]

[He waits until Zhongli is secure before starting up the motorcycle and beginning to drive. He's also... being surprisingly observant of traffic laws? Not always following the lights to a T given the lack of traffic all around, but certainly exercising enough caution along the way to make sure they don't end up crashing into any other lone drivers.]

[ They pull up in front of a convenience store like any other, except perhaps it is full in stock of all the special foods and snacks that come around at the end of the year. Limited edition, too. ]

Ready for a little---- what is it called? Retail therapy.

...Is that a real thing?

[He's like ?pretty sure? that is not a real thing, but who knows, grey still has roots in his brains. But in they go!]

Edited 2022-01-04 02:10 (UTC)

[ In they go! ]

I find browsing the markets to be a way to ease my stress and worries. To see skilled artisans and businessman weave their crafts.

And while that is not quite possible here within Tokyo-F, well.

I thought the atmosphere might be calming for you as well. I know on numerous occasions you have gone to markets like these after particularly rough games to purchase items for your friends.

This time I hope to do the same for you.

Ah... well, it's free, isn't it?

[Kind of... wandering the aisles listlessly.]

I do believe they offer this instead of our salaries.

[ Zhongli does not assist other than to place one of the small plastic baskets for carrying goods in his hands.

Otherwise, he is happy to keep pace with Izanagi as he wanders the store. ]

[He gives the various foods a good looking over, though... inevitably he ends up tossing a bunch of sweets and chips into the basket.]

[ Zhongli is mentally taking note of everything that is tossed inside while he goes to raid the meat buns warming near where the cashier would be. ]

[It seems like chocolatey things are a safe bet, as well as sweet pastries like cookies and cakes. On the snacky side, potato chips and sticks, barbeque chips, that sort of thing.]

[ Tempts fate by adding some fruit to the cart. Or well... more like yogurt probably. Tiny pre-made tarts. ]

[He doesn't seem to exactly notice, or if he does, he doesn't care.]

I think this works...?

Excellent. Is there anything else we should pick up before we head back?

[Trying to think it over, but... nothing else comes to mind.]

No, I think this is enough.

Caeli; I'm breaking up with you because you're bad in bed, and you're not fun. I'm getting off somewhere else. So long, sucker.

Edited 2021-12-20 17:51 (UTC)

[ The reply takes a few minutes. ]

Glaze Lily: Childe.
Glaze Lily: If I am being honest and vulnerable, I thought that you inviting me to share a night of intimacy with you and Master Valor was your way of letting me know that you were pursuing multiple bed partners and lovers as each one of them offers something unique and special to you.
Glaze Lily: I am supportive in you having as many and as varied of partners that makes you happy, but it appears I was remiss in saying that verbally.
Glaze Lily: Or textually in this case I suppose.
Glaze Lily: I hope that you are getting off with whoever and however you like as long as it does not endanger your mental and physical well being.
Glaze Lily: As for my own performance, I wish that you would have told me what you found insufficient in both the sexual and social aspects so that I could have improved upon them, but I understand that is also not your responsibility.
Glaze Lily: Though I will chastise you a little for sending such a message over text as it is considered improper decorum based on all the current literature I have read on the subject.
Glaze Lily: If you wish to discuss this in more detail, I can meet you at a neutral location of your choosing as is also recommended by that same literature.
Glaze Lily: Also please drink plenty of fluids of the non-alcoholic variety as you have had a very rough day today.
Glaze Lily: Warm Regards,
Glaze Lily: Zhongli

[ oh. my. god.
scaramouche is getting kicked off the fucken bed. ]

Caeli; Xiansheng! Don’t take that message seriously. It’s all bullshit. And I didn’t want to write it. I’m having trouble disobeying commands given to me for some reason. I think you’re a great partner in all facets of our relationship… physically, emotionally, all of that. “Rough day” is putting it mildly. Where are you right now?

[ This response is much more immediate ]

Glaze Lily: Childe.
Glaze Lily: Who is coercing you?
Glaze Lily: Are you in danger?

Caeli; I’m not in any danger. An asshole is just taking advantage of the situation. And three guesses, but the first two don’t count. It’s the Balladeer.

Glaze Lily: I see.
Glaze Lily: So this is a prank by your fellow Harbinger?

Caeli; It’s a display of pettiness and I guess it’s a prank, but I’m not laughing. Unless he tells me to and then I guess I am. What kind of bullshit side effect is this! I didn’t notice anybody else getting on their hands and knees just because somebody asked!

Glaze Lily: It does not appear that the Balladeer has your best interests in mind while you are under a very unfortunate side effect.
Glaze Lily: Are you still with him?

Caeli; I am, but I may not be here for much longer.

Glaze Lily: If you wish a respite from his manipulations then I would like to see you.

Caeli; I'll text you when I'm leaving.

[ later! ]

Caeli; Meet me at Wild City?

Glaze Lily: Yes. I will meet you there.

[ #read. ]

[ childe is hanging out on the landing as a fox, pacing back and forth. ]

[ After the elevator door closes, Zhongli kneels down and holds out his arms for said pacing fox ]

Childe.

[ throws himself into his arms. ]

[ Holds him tight in his arms and lifts him up to his chest, gratuitously scritching between his ears. ]

Are you all right?

No. [ SINCE HE CAN'T LIE. ] I'm sorry about the text, Xiansheng. [ and how you took it serious x2. ]

We can talk about that if you like. Or wait until the effect of the game wears off.

[ Another affectionate headpat ]

But I am more concerned that the Balladeer was making you do things that you were against. You mentioned being on your hands and knees...?

I don't care... it's all the same to me. [ his mood is already soured. ] It was an expression. He didn't keep it up for much longer... but he did push my buttons a bit by having me send those stupid texts.

...

[ He ruffles Childe's fur some more as he holds him tight ]

It was not a very charitable thing to do. For now you have to explain yourself to everyone it was sent to.

I took care of that. Mostly. [ zhongli remains! ] I imagine having had read that message... hurt. Even if I explained myself right after you still seemed to think that I... meant all that stuff. [ hops out of his arms and changes back. ] All I can do is apologize. [ :( ]

Childe, you do not have to apologize.

When you explained what happened I was more concerned that it would escalate in terms of what he would ask and not about the original message. I'm afraid I do not have much trust in the Balladeer's intentions after previous encounters.

As for my initial reaction, that was a combination of my own concerns and failings. With Cardinal gone and Venti currently grey and losing his memories, once I read the text I suppose I just.

Panicked.

…fair. I think it’s a tie between him and Dottore for the crown of least liked Harbinger. He is definitely something. [ offers a weary smile. ] But he didn’t do anything terrible beyond that text, and it was his way of sort of coping with what happened. Focusing on my ailment rather than the stuff I went through, though that doesn’t exactly excuse his behavior.

[ just going to hug zhongli. ] I just hope this doesn’t last long.

[ He hugs him back before holding him out at arm's length ]

Might I try something?

I do not know if it will work.

…ah, sure, go ahead?

[ Clears his throat ]

Do as you like regardless of what other people request of you.

[ that earns a smile. ] Itd be nice if that worked…

[ Holds out a hand ]

Well, I will try to be careful with my words in the meantime regardless.

If it happens it happens. I trust you not to ask me to act like a dog or something. [ drags him inside. ] I wonder if I should buy some noise canceling headphones or something…

That's not a terrible idea. In case you need to go out that would prevent you from having to continually explain your situation.

Or I can just stay in the dorm. Honestly I might just do that. It's easier.

[ HMMMMMM ]

I have another idea. If you would like to hear it.

And what's that?

I agree with your earlier assessment that we can just stay in the dorm until the effect wears off. But until it does, I could also follow your commands as well. For fairness and -- as Alisaie would put it -- spiteful reasons.

You don't need to do that. I don't really care about the fairness of the situation if I'm being honest. Just stay with me.

[ He considers Childe's expression for many long moments, gears turning. ]

[ And then leans in, swiping the back of a gloved hand against Childe's cheek and a slightly bowed head. ]

And if it were also for pleasure, Master Childe?

[ Before straightening his posture ]

Though I will stay by your side regardless of what you wish to do.

Y- You can't just say *that* and then act like you didn't!

You want to make kinky commands, Xiansheng?

I do. And I want you to have the same kind of power.

[ He leans in again, placing two fingers at the small of Childe's back and walking them up his spine. ]

I bet Master Childe is still chilled from the last game. Perhaps that is something I can help with.

[ refrains from saying he's not interested in that kind of power, instead arching to the touch. ] I'm certainly not going to say no if you're offering to warm me.

[ He strokes at the skin at the nape of his neck with one finger. ]

Then take us somewhere more private, Master Childe.

To my cabin then. [ going to bring zhongli over the river and through the woods to childe's cabin we go. ]

[ once inside, ] What else will you have me do then, Xiansheng?

I was thinking of many things.

[ He raises a hand to drag his nails across Childe's scalp. ]

First, to watch you pleasure yourself. Do you think you could get off with just your hands and my voice?

[ His nails continue around the shell of Childe's ear ]

Then I would enjoy watching you prepare yourself for me, so that I then may have complete control over you without the usual need for ropes. Perhaps I might even force you to tell me what it is that you want.

[ He finishes with catching Childe just under the chin, tilting it just so to force him to look at him. ]

Does the sound of those appeal to you?

[ zhongli might notice that just from all these what ifs childe's gotten a bit hard. ]

Sure does, Xiansheng. What are we waiting for? Bedroom's in the other room... a few feet away.

[ Zhongli glances down with just the hint of a smile and a quick peck on the lips. ]

I was just waiting for your favorable reaction, Ajax. Now---

[ And he leads him into that bedroom - right into the very center or as close as he can get without being in reach of the bed. He presses up against Childe's back, hands resting on his waist. ]

Hands out and legs spread. Allow me the honor of removing your current attire.

And did you get it, Xiansheng?

[ it's not like he can disobey... though he probably wouldn't have anyway. he puts his hands out at his sides and spreads his legs, looking over his shoulder at zhongli. ] Try not to take too long, Xiansheng.

I did. What could be more favorable than your smile and excitement?

[ Zhongli strips Childe reverently from behind, but at a pace he hope will not find too slow as hands and lips trace across revealed skin. A kiss is place at the curve of his shoulder as the jacket comes off. Another to his thigh as he remove his pants. And an affectionate scritch to each of his five tails as he tosses the clothes elsewhere ]

Beautiful...

Get on the bed for me. On your knees. But comfortably so.

Not much apparently. [ he dips his shoulder, trying to turn and quickly capture zhongli's lips in a kiss, but he's too quick. his tails lift, twitching about with each of the touches. ]

Of course, Xiansheng. [ since he'll be on the bed he's bound to be comfortable, but he crawls onto the bed, lifting his tails up and tantalizingly shaking his ass at him. ] I hope you'll join me sooner rather than later.

[ He laughs warmly, refraining from calling Childe adorable because he does know if it would be appreciated at the moment.

(But he is adorable.)

Zhongli makes his way to the night stand, pulling out the lube and placing it in front of Childe.

And then he climbs up on the bed himself, bracketing Childe between his legs and piling the pillows comfortably against the headboard so he can get front row seats to this show. One hand reaches out to stroke just the end of one of his tails. ]

My gorgeous cunning fox.

Prepare yourself for me. I would like to watch.

[ childe keeps an eye on him, amused as soon as he sees the lube. he spares it a glance once it’s set down, but focuses more on zhongli as he fits himself into place between himself. he leans over to give him a kiss, that same tail dipping to stroke zhongli’s face as he pets it. ]

[ childe sits back for a moment, taking the tube of lube and squeezing a generous amount into his hands. a few seconds of warming it and he lifts his ass into the air, pressing his face into zhongli’s thighs with a smug ass smile. he traces the rim of his asshole, dipping a single finger in to start, but eventually it’s joined by a second and a third; eyes fluttering closed as he finds an even pace with which to not only work himself open, but also fuck himself to. ]

Oh.

[ Oh what a show indeed. Zhongli gently pushes the tail away in order to get a better view and---

Breathtaking.

If he were to describe it in one word. ]

Are you enjoying yourself?

[ He strokes Childe's hair as he watches him work himself open. As he watches him start to pleasure himself. ]

Don't get too carried away, Master Childe.

[ And that hand tightens to a fist as Zhongli pulls on those galaxy colored locks as he issues another obedience command. ]

Keep yourself on the edge but be careful not to cross it. That is reserved for me and me alone.

I... mm, I am, but I... [ a breathless laugh as he tries for a nod, but because he's bracing himself on the bed with his head it's kind of difficult. ] but I think I would enjoy it more if you, I need you, Xiansheng. Fuck me. Fuck me, Xiansheng. [ the back and forth does nothing but excite him further, the teasing driving him mad as he swiftly amps up the pace. ] Hhng. [ he shuts his eyes and whines as his fingers suddenly slow. he had been close. real close. but he, too, only wants to come once zhongli has joined him. ] Will you... fuck me, please, I'm ready. Don't you see... [ he spreads himself for zhongli, trying to entice him. ]

[ Zhongli continues to run his hand through Childe's hair, nails skimming across his scalp and down to the nape of his neck. ]

Yes. I do see. You have done very well, Ajax.

Now.

[ His fingers continue trailing downward, past the tail of his spine and the fluff of his tails to trace over where Childe has been working himself so expertly. Fingertips ghost over the back of his hands. ]

Sit up for me and turn around.

I want to make us both feel good.

[ he doesn’t spend another second as he is, instead turning around to lay on his back, legs still spread, so zhongli can do as he likes. childe keeps his fingers buried inside himself, moving them at a slow enough pace to keep him excited and interested, not that he needs to, but the constant stimuli is helping to drive him wild. ]

Please, Xiansheng. [ he reaches for him with his other hand, desperate for him in any fashion - a kiss, a touch, a stroke, a fuck. ] I need you.

[ And if he were to be granted all of his desires.

A kiss placed to that palm that is reaching for him, accompanied but a scrape of teeth against flesh.

A touch as Zhongli's thumb smooths over the curve of hip and thigh.

A stroke as he finds the neglected cock between his legs and caresses the length of it from base to tip.

And a fuck as he impatiently thrusts two fingers inside of Childe, right next to his own and begins working over his soft insides. ]

Ahn, [ childe's fingers all twitch and he has to refrain from grabbing at zhongli's face. instead he tilts his head to cup his cheek, stroking his thumb with no amount of finesse at this point. ] Hnf, m- more, please, Xiansheng, more. [ he lifts his hips, cum beading at the tip as he tries to fuck zhongli's hand, but his attempts are stopped as two fingers join his own. he cries out, trembling for half a second, because, yes, this is what he needs. ] K- Keep... giving me orders...

Tilt your head back and close your eyes.

[ He says while molten gold watches him slowly break apart piece by beautiful piece.

The next press of his hand to his cock is rough, almost a tug while the fingers inside him soften in their exploration. ]

And do not stop pleasuring yourself.

Your pleasure will be brought by both your hand and mine.

[ childe does as he's asked without a shred of hesitation, his head tipping backward as he closes his eyes. zhongli's fingers might ease up, but his own start frantically ( desperately ) trying to help him along. he nods, mouth dropping open as he pants a number of even breaths, the tattoo on his womb's glow intensifying. ]

Will you fuck me, Xiansheng? You, I need you, I- [ and he cums with a cry, trembling as rides it out. ] N- Need you...

[ Zhongli kisses the bared expanse of his throat when Childe crests over the edge, soft and tender as he slows his fingers to avoid hitting any more overly sensitive spots. ]

Of course.

But enjoy this for now. Savor it.

[ The gentle kisses trace their way up the edge of Childe's jaw. ]

The next battle will be there. I will be there.

There is no need to rush.

I, I am. [ he mewls as he continues riding out his orgasm, his stiffened body relaxing as he lays back down on the bed, no longer trembling in its wake. he breathes out a sigh, opening an eye to gaze up at zhongli. ] I always savor every moment we share together, Xiansheng. Always... [ shuts his eye and takes another few breathes, one of which turns into a laugh. ] I know, but I just want more, more you.

[Someone has left a festive wrapped package outside your room. The tag, in Hurricane's sloppy handwriting, is addressed to you by name, and it reads: "Happy holidays, dude!" There is also a jar of dark chocolate rum truffles.]

[Inside the package is a tea kit and matching tea.]

[ He was too busy during plot and games to reciprocate, but just you wait until the Lantern Rite rolls around Hurricane!!!

Gonna celebrate things the Liyue way. ]

Caeli; Please come to Wild City. Door's open. Head to my room and knock once, ok!

Glaze Lily: All right.
Glaze Lily: I'll be there shortly.

[ And there will be a soft knock on the door to his room within the next few minutes. ]

Come on in, Xiansheng. But do it quick and, ah, shut the door behind you.

[ zhongli is going to be met with this ( nsfw )... and though it looks like he might have tried to wrap himself up he ultimately ended up getting tangled. ] Happy Holidays, Xiansheng. Do you want to come open your gift~

[ Was Childe expecting anything but a wide-eyed stare as Zhongli shuts the door behind him?

Well, in addition - his new tail thumps repeatedly against the ground as he looks Childe, eyes tracing over the red ribbon and what they are failing to cover.

Whatever holiday this is - he's suddenly very grateful for it. ]

Yes. I do believe I want to. Ajax.

[ a+ reaction. he hears the thump, but from this angle he can't really see jack shit. ]

What are you waiting for then, Xiansheng? An invitation? Pretty sure I already sent one.

[ He peers over the edge of the box, tail lashing in interest behind him. ]

How did you even do this?

[ And he tugs at one of the ribbons, not enough to loosen it though ]

And can you do this again?

It's called skill. [ and patience. tons of fucken patience. ]

Oh? You want to see me do this again sometime? My~ what a reaction.

[ He gives the ribbon another tug. ]

Some other time. But first---

[ And he reaches out to pull his phone from his pocket. ]

May I?

To remember this gift by.

As long as you put a lock on your phone.

Something like this is for your eyes only. I don't want anybody else coming across it.

Lock on my phone?

[ Sir.

He has not locked even his door once in his 6,000 year long life. ]

How do I do that?

I can help you. No more letting people take your phone for whatever they claim is a good reason. [ he will die if anybody sees him like this that is NOT zhongli. ]

Very well. If you help me lock my phone, then I am allowed to take a picture of you with my Kamera.

Is that an acceptable contract?

You can take as many pictures as you like. [ aka yes. ]

[ Zhongli does not need to take many pictures.

He only needs to take a single one, pressing and shifting Childe's limbs and ribbons in some composition that only the inside of Zhongli's mind is privy to.

Once he is satisfied, he lifts up his phone - taking another few seconds to frame the perfect shot - and then with the artificial shutter sound, the perfect picture is taken.

He examines the finished piece with a soft smile before the phone disappears back into the folds of his clothing.

And then he hooks two fingers under the red ribbon adorning Childe's neck - the jingle bell tinkling softly. ]

You are gorgeous.

[ childe should have anticipated this taking another 'couple' of minutes. he loses track at, like, nine. he lets zhongli move his limbs here and there, not really able to do much beyond look around and squirm, but he also doesn't want to disrupt anything, because then they'll be right back at square one! ]

Hey! Don't put it away. [ said as soon as he goes to slide the phone back into his pocket. ] I want to see. [ since he legit has no idea what he looks like. he can imagine, sure, but... it's probably not the same. ]

[ childe laughs as the bell around his neck jingles. ] Especially wrapped up like this, hm?

Ah, I see I've been terribly rude.

[ And he does hold the phone and the picture up for Childe to see.

A lock screen has yet to be enabled, but that might soon be fixed by Zhongli tugging at his wrist bindings. ]

Hmmm.

Oh, I think you are gorgeous in all sorts of ways. But yes, I am particular fond of this. You look very good in deeper reds. And a variety of shades of blue. The accent the color palate of your skin as well as your freckles.

[ childe shouldn't have asked to see the photo, because all it does is make his face turn a bright red. yep. that sure is... him. ]

I'll keep all that in mind and be sure to wear more blood red. [ it IS his position color. ] And you know how much I love blue. [ kdfgjfkhg. d- don't talk about his freckles! ]

[ He cannot help but tease.

Sorry, Childe, that you are so bully-able. He keeps the photo in plain view. ]

My dear Ajax.

Are you blushing?

[ huffs, not looking the least bit intimidating. ] No. I'm not blushing. I... it's got to be the lighting in here.

[ Cute.

Well. Instead of untying him then Zhongli is just going to lean down and pick Childe up and out of the box. ]

Then might we move somewhere where the lighting is more favorable to your complexion.

[ HEY. this isn't fair. he didn't box himself not to be opened and unwrapped. he squirms a bit. ] Xiansheng! the bed is fine, c'mon, just... unwrap me already. [ he's getting antsy! ] I know you don't want to wait too much longer. Look at me~ I'm already ready for you. [ trying to coerce him into hurrying up! ]

[ And on the bed Childe will be dumped with little to no fanfare before Zhongli climbs up next to him, shedding clothing quickly out of sheer practice at this point. ]

You are correct.

[ As he rubs and massages any place where the ribbons were tied just a little tight. ]

I do want you badly.

[ childe stares as zhongli sheds his clothes, licking his lips and doing his best not to completely lose it. seeing him like this, a bit more 'frantic' than normal, always drives him wild, because zhongli is normally so practiced and meticulous. childe grins, squirming as zhongli rubs the spots he's managed to tighten the ribbons around. ] You know, Xiansheng, this isn't the only gift I had prepared.

[ He laughs breathlessly as he cages Childe in, hands planted on either side of his head. ]

Is that so?

Are you going to rile me up until my thoughts are of nothing but getting my hands on you, and then try to distract me with something else?

[ He leans down to whisper in Childe's ear. ]

That will not save you.

Nor grant you my mercy.

[ childe’s eyes flicker between the two hands on either side of his head, laughing sheepishly because plan, what plan, he didn’t exactly think through the order of operations here. ] Not so much distract, but perhaps it’s best saved for-

[ and then he’s leaning down, whispering that, and childe swears he bodily shudders and nearly cums on the spot. ]

[ his mouth drops open and he says something entirely incoherent, some kind of laugh following as his brain resets itself. ]

I’m not interested in mercy.

Good.

[ Because Zhongli's tail is going to wrap itself around one of Childe's ankles right about now so he can make sure his legs are nice and spread for him.

Right as Zhongli bites into his shoulder. ]

H- Hahhh. Zhongli Xiansheng... [ shuts his eyes and shudders as he sinks his teeth into his shoulder. ] Mark me. Keep marking me. I want everybody to know I'm yours.

[ He bites hard enough to draw blood, the imprint of teeth purpling against skin.

Just as two fingers dip between Childe's legs to ensure that he has prepared himself as well as he appeared to have.

Just how did he manage that and tying himself up in that box? A question for later, perhaps. ]

[ zhongli is going to find a small vibrator lodged inside of him, the remote somewhere in the box, probably. that might answer the one question at least, but the second is infinitely harder… this having taken a long time ( too long, perhaps ) to do. definitely worth it though. ]

[ the mark has him moaning and twisting in his restraints, eyes closing and leaving him to revel in the painful pulse that feeds masochistic side. ] Yessss, good, Xiansheng, this is good.

[ The fingers explore for quite a while, trying to figure out what exactly Childe has put inside himself.

But when Zhongli does figure it out--- there is a smile pressed against that bruised and tender skin.

Before he uses two fingers to shove the toy in deeper, right against Childe's sweet spot.

Is the vibrator on? ]

[ it’s on! the immediate jolt of pleasure hits him like a truck, and he snaps his hips forward as he comes, his surprise lost in a moan as he tightens around the toy and his fingers. childe trembles in the wake of his orgasm, the vibrator is still flush against his prostate and driving him in-fucken-sane. hot and heavy breathes pour out of him as his brain tries to catch up to him. ]

Beautiful.

[ And he keeps his fingers there, pressed tight inside and against the vibrator so that Childe cannot escape from it. ]

Might you give me another?

[ . . . another?! ]

[ there's no time to even consider it an option as he's kind of got no choice! not that he'd be opposed, but a short break might help him think a liiiittle bit more clearly. he tries to call for zhongli, to answer him in some fashion, but all he can do is moan and squirm, his dick already hard again as he starts rutting against the bow tied around it helplessly. ]

[ The movement of his hips draws attention to the bow there, and Zhongli clicks his tongue for his carelessness. ]

My apologies.

While I respect your desire for roughness, as a celebration of this foreign winter holiday, I will not have you suffer needlessly. Not without a reason for the punishment.

[ He calmly explains as if Childe is capable of parsing his overly lengthy explanation as he one-handedly undoes the bow tied around his dick. He does not, however, let up pressure on the vibrator in the slightest. ]

There.

Does that feel better?

[ childe laughs, though it tapers into a whine, since zhongli hasn't let up on the vibrator at all. ] L- Little bit. Just... just a little... [ it's not like the bow had been tied too tightly. it really hadn't been bothering him. if anything! zhongli should untie him, so he can move and grab and fuck himself on his dick. ]

[ Zhongli should do a lot of things. A lot of common sense things that most people would do.

But unfortunately, he is Zhongli---

And has his mind set on something in particular. ]

Enough that I may continue?

Did you, a- ah, did you ever really… stop… [ he chokes out a laugh as he squirms for emphasis. ] Pretty sure you, you still… you’re still keeping that little vibrator in place… [ and he already feels on the verge - like the most subtle of movements could send him sailing over the edge yet again. ]

It's quite the clever little device.

[ But there is a considering hum at Childe's words. He never really stopped, did he? And it's not like Childe verbally acquiesced to one more round. ]

But you are correct.

Shall I remove it then?

I… h- hah, clever is one way of describing it I- I guess. [ a broken laugh as he shudders. ] Have you ever, …Xiansheng, have you ever used a toy? [ ignoring his question for a moment. ]

[ Casually, as he still has two fingers holding it in place. ]

I do not think so. I believe the only experience I have with one is when Master Valour spoke of using one on you during our mutual intercourse.

…ex- experiment with me. [ tries to rock back against his fingers, because now there’s just a dull ache in his gut and he needs more. ] Untie me. I can, I… I can show you. I think you’ll like some.

Alright.

[ And he removes his hand, leaving the vibrator where it is so can begin first undoing the length of ribbon binding Childe's hands together. ]

I would like to learn.

[ as soon as he unties his hands childe rubs at his wrists. he should see if he can't find the remote, but... zhongli didn't take it out, so he assumes he'd like to keep it there. ]

[ he sits up and shudders, gasping when his movements cause the vibrator to shift. ] Xiansheng. [ grabs at him, trying to ground himself, but he can feel himself slipping a little. ] Where's the remote? I can't take it.

I left it in the box.

[ Fingers flit over where Childe is holding him, keeping him steady but not quite offering him complete support. ]

Do you think you could fetch it for me?

...h- hahhhh. [ ofc. ] I should be able t- to. Just need, ah, hhhah... a minute. [ ducks his head, his grip tightening on zhongli as he turns back toward the box to search around for the remote. ]

[ Zhongli brushes his lips over the top of Childe's head when he ducks down, the gentle press of a hand against his side. Encouraging perhaps as he makes sure Childe is steady enough to slip off the bed without falling. ]

Of course.

There is no need to rush. You and I have all the time in the world.

[ he takes his time, because each time he moves the vibe inside him shifts, prompting a small cry or a low moan, and he’s already growing closer and closer to another orgasm. eventually he finds the remote, immediately turning the thing off to give himself some much needed relief. he collapses onto the bed with a sigh, shutting his eyes. ]

Did you want to try something similar, Xiansheng?

[ He reaches forward to take the remote and place it on the bed, though he leaves it off for the moment. Petting Childe's sweat-soaked locks of hair from his eyes seems a much better use of his time at the moment. ]

Hmmm?

Tie myself up as a present and leave myself at your disposal. Yes, I would be willing to try. Though your birthday is quite a ways away. Shall I attempt it for a different occasion?

Hahahh. No, I didn't mean that. [ he colors, shaking his head a bit frantically, but he honestly wouldn't mind seeing zhongli tied up and left at his mercy. that'd be exceedingly hot. ] I meant stuffed full of one of my toys. I'd really like to see you squirming on the bed, Xiansheng. [ but the fact that he hadn't hesitated at all in being willing to try has childe nearly dying on the spot. ] W- Well I don't really think we need a special occasion to try something like this. You can do it any time. Just, ah, let me know... or, you know, I can always help tie you up and... [ clears his throat. ] outfit you with somethings...

I see.

[ Seeing Childe flush is one of Zhongli's favorite things in the world. Even when he doesn't know what he did to deserve it. A fingertip lazily traces over his collarbone as he leans over Childe's prone form. ]

I have to admit I'm quite intrigued if just discussing it results in such a promising reaction from you.

Is there something in particular you'd like me to try?

[ And that finger continues down the broad expanse of his chest. ]

Something in particular you'd like me to wear?

I... [ his mind races with about half a dozen potential things he'd like to see zhongli in. draped in all sorts of sheer and silk and gold and jewels. c- celestia. he could cum on the spot, he fucken swears. he manages to choke out the rest of his response, laughing intermittently. ] Y- Yes. There is, and... I want to use one of the vibrators on you. I want... I want to see you come apart... I want to edge you toward pleasure and then take you all for myself.

I'd like that.

[ Fingers smooth down Childe's sides as he picks and unravels bits of the ribbon here and there as they wander listlessly and aimlessly over his skin. ]

I would like to come apart at your hands.

I would like to be submissive to you.

And I would like you to push me to my limits as you so beautifully push yourself.

...hearing you talk like that, Xiansheng, [ it's hot. so hot. ] you're going to make me cum on your words alone. [ another laugh that's a bit strained, because he's dying here. this is too much. ] But I'd like that, a lot, I want to make you mine over and over and over. Love you so much.

Caeli; No time to explain meet me HERE.

[ and that's a link to a location that zhongli should recognize as their own personal shrine. ]

Edited 2021-12-30 16:26 (UTC)

[ Well. If it's the shrine, then it probably isn't anything concerning. So Zhongli packs up some of his favorite tea and two mugs and heads over.

As he enters: ]

Childe. Are you already here?

[ as soon as zhongli enters he’s going to be met by the smell of glaze lilies, a bunch of beautifully spun bouquets hanging around the shrine along with some other decorations in the color scheme of black and gold. small fairy lights are strung here and there, meant to look like crystalflies, but their dimness certainly keeps the mood somber. ]

Xiansheng! [ shit, he got he faster than he expected. he whips around, revealing the cake he had been trying to stick 6000+ candles in to be a snot. he’s dressed up in taisho fashion, in some of the closest clothes he could find to liyue’s style. ]

[ he gets up from the low table and crosses the space between them, reaching for zhongli’s hands so he can tug him close and give him a kiss. ] Happy Birthday Zhongli Xiansheng.

[ The kiss is a bit distracted as he's taking everything in - the flowers, the lights, what Childe is wearing. Everything in an attempt to make this day perfect and remind him of home.

The laughter that follows is that of pure joy.

And the second kiss is much more focused and tender. ]

Ajax.

You have really outdone yourself this time.

Of course I did. [ softly. ] How could I *not*, Xiansheng. You mean so much to me, and today is your special day...

My special day?

[ Sits down on the nearest cushion and attempts to pull Childe into his lap. ]

Come here then.

[ takes a seat in his lap, his tails fanning out as he does so. ] Anything for you today Xiansheng.

[ He cups Childe's face carefully in his hands ]

Do you know what is even better than glaze lilies and bouquets and birthday cakes and meticulously crafted gifts and surprises?

[ it's hard to keep from just leaning in to steal a kiss. ]

I could guess~

I do not want you to guess. I want to tell you.

It's you.

Not the gifts you give or the endless flattery. Not the affection or the outings. Though all of those are nice and I adore them.

But better than all of that---

Is just you.

And if that all comes packaged together in a neat little bow…. [ kisses him softly. ] But that’s very sweet of you to say, Xiansheng, and it means a lot besides.

Then that is also you.

And on my day of birth, I will gladly indulge in the entire package.

However---

[ And he leans up to place a kiss on his forehead ]

I just want you to remember that you do not have to perform to earn or keep my fondness. It is there for you simply because you are Ajax.

If you want to, however, I will greedily accept your offerings.

[ his tails all fluff up and he moves them to surround zhongli. HE GETS CONSUMED IN WHITE FUR. ] I'll remember. But I do like turning tricks [ lol. ] for you, Xiansheng. You do enjoy being spoiled, right, [ he reaches for his horns, stroking each of them from base to tip. ] my Geo Dragon. [ and he'll kiss him right after. ] I do love seeing the way your eyes shine when I shower you with gifts.

[ Childe cannot put all of his tails in that close of proximity and also stroke his horns. That is cheating, sir. CHEATING.

Zhongli's eyes go half-lidded with a rumble of approval as his horns are stroked, butting them into Childe's hand for more pets. ]

I do enjoy being spoiled.

It's quite the novelty - leaving things in someone else's care.

[ cheating!!! he continues letting them, turning the edge of his nails inward to gently scrape against them as he continues with each languid stroke. ] You took care of Liyue for over three thousand years, Xiansheng, so let me take care of you.

[ He shivers pleasantly with each touch, eventually trying to tumble them both of them down to the cushions so he can look up at Childe.

(Being careful of the boxes of course). ]

Okay.

Take care of me then.

Let's start with the -ack! [ and back they go! childe chuckles, moving his hands to cup his cheeks, so he can take a kiss. ] How about we start with the cake?

[ He turns his head, not letting go of Childe as he considers those 6,002 candles. ]

Please do not cause harm to this place with it. Or yourself.

I am rather fond of both.

I couldn't fit them all on! so let's not bother with the rest. [ it might take an eternity to get them on there anyway. ~~sorrynotsorry~~. ] We can just work with what we've got, but... [ looks around, because there's a lot of flammable stuff inside. ] let's take care of this outside. Juuuust in case. [ grabs a lighter. ]

[ Zhongli fusses and grumbles and clings for a few seconds like the spoiled brat he can be. Childe warm and here. Outside less warm and cuddly.

But he does extract himself eventually to pick up the cake very carefully and attempt to take it outside. He will leave Childe to light the candles. ]

Don't worry. It's not going to take long. [ and he'll wrap an arm around zhongli and fluff up his tails. ] I'll make sure you stay niiiice and warm. [ sticks real~ close, turning his head to kiss his cheek as he starts to sing happy birthday in snezhnayan. lights the candles as he does so, though only a few. ]

[ With a teasing grin: ]

Well, that is much kinder than the Snezhnayan pinky promise.

[ And as soon as the candles are light. ]

Is it also Snezhnaya tradition that one makes a wish when blowing out candles?

[ cheekily, ] Only if you share it right after.

I can agree to that contract.

[ And he expertly blows out the lit candles. ]

[ leans across the cake as the smoke clears to give him a birthday kiss. ] So, Zhongli, what's your wish?

I wish to see your beautiful smile.

Hasn’t it been beautiful all night? I’ve had about a thousand reasons to smile tonight, Xiansheng, and all of them you.

A charmer and unapologetically so.

But that is my wish. How fortuitous that it was granted almost immediately.

Perhaps this will be my lucky year.

Not to and for just anybody.

But, yes, here's to hoping. I actually bought materials to make a lantern, just you and I, if you were interested.

I am very interested. Will you be making a wish then as well?

[ leans over, ] My wish already came true, so there’s hardly anything else to wish for. [ kisses his cheek. ] But if it’s tradition, then I’ll think of something.

[ He threads his fingers with Childe ]

Then shall we make them together this time.

I remember the last time, you put in all the effort yourself.

I’d like that. I don’t really know how to make them properly, so I was hoping you’d show me. We can make the perfect one together. [ squeezes zhongli’s hand. ]

Of course.

[ And he tugs on Childe's hand, trying to lead them back to the warmth of inside. ]

I would love to show you.

[ goes along easily. ] I’m sure there’s some special technique I was missing… [ brings zhongli over to where all the materials have been laid out. ] Can we also make a second to hang in here?

[ Outside Heart's doorstep, Zhongli will find a small box wrapped in brown parchment, tied off with twine. The only hint about who it's from or who it's for is the cecilia nestled beneath the twine. ]

[ ????

He picks it up and brings it inside, taking the cecilia and tucking it behind one ear before carefully opening it. ]

[ When he opens it, he'll find a lacquered music box. The front is engraved with every type of Liyue specialty flower, and it plays a gentle Liyue medley when opened and wound. There are plenty of compartments for Zhongli to store his various gold and jewels. For now, though, the only thing inside is a piece of parchment rolled and tied with twine, with the following written in ornate script:

Where they finally came together
Winged but foreign
Feather and scale
At the gap between eons

Where they finally came together
They had no memories remaining
of naive romantic love
Nor the folly of relishing
their having all the time in the world

Where they finally came together
In the stark reality of all they had become
They were too stubborn to hide
yet secretly wondered
if it was truly worth the trouble
after all this time

Where they finally came together
Their souls tread the edge of time
as they removed the layers of long life
Piece by piece
shedding off what no longer served them
until they discovered a place deep inside
beyond the fleeting, the expectation, the duty,

Over the clouds and jagged mountains
Over the rolling hills and towering trees
Where bird perches
And dragon nests

Where they finally came together --
A sanctuary to rest their weary heads

Happy birthday, blockhead! ]

[ He folds the poem back and carefully and stores it back in the box for safekeeping.

Ah, Barbatos.

He is probably one of the few that know that this day is not truly Zhongli's "birth" but one he picked out of tradition. More birthday than the day he came into being. What could be more fitting then celebrating the passage of a year - to close old memories and welcome new one with open arms. ]

[ Hmmm... ]

[ About two hours later, Venti will get a text with very detailed instructions on how to get somewhere quite a distance from the hotel. ]

[ The urge to respond by asking if his knee has given out somewhere and he needs a rescue is very, very strong. It's not a birthday celebration without old age griefing, after all.

Still . . .

He refrains just this once, or maybe because of recent events, who's to say? Instead he simply sets aside whatever instrument he was plucking melancholy tunes on to follow the instructions.

He wanders to the location a little over an hour later, with no idea where he is. ]

[ The answer is Suntory Hall where Zhongli is standing in the exact center of the stage with an erhu tucked under one arm. ]

[ Oh -- so you mean one of Venti's future favorite places?

He comes down the aisle slowly, thanks to the extensive rubbernecking he's doing to admire the venue. He pauses not far from the stage, though, clearly taken aback. ]

Morax . . . ?

I hope you brought an instrument.

If not, you should send for one.

I always have my flute . . .

[ It's the most portable! ]

Am I performing?

We are performing.

. . .

[ He pulls his flute from one of the many compartments in his sensitIV™ clothing, climbing onto the stage. ]

It's a little backwards, isn't it? Should you be the one performing on your own special day?

[ There's just a quirk of the lips at that. ]

It is also my special day. So I get to choose.

[ Laughing as he stands across from him.

Never turn your back on the audience, but -- there isn't one just now. ]

Alright, alright. As Mr. Zhongli demands~

[ Good, Zhongli hold onto the erhu with practiced ease - one of the few instruments he has mastery of.

And begins to play Guizhong's lullaby. ]

[ Ah . . .

It only takes a few notes for him to know what Zhongli is playing.

He lifts the flute, playing in time. ]

[ Zhongli's playing is (unsurprisingly) probably very true to the original source with very little innovation and addition on his own.

So when he moves to the chorus a second time, it might come as a little bit of surprise when he changes the key in which they are playing and moves his half of the playing to harmony - giving Venti the stage and spotlight he so rightly deserves. ]

[ Venti blinks up at him in surprise for a moment, but takes the cue -- he carries the next portion in a way that remains faithful to the original, but adapts it for the nuances of the flute. Well, and his own Barbatos quirks, of course.

It's lovely either way, and he's never been one to shrink from the spotlight. ]

[ He does not allow the fond laughter to spill because that would disrupt the playing.

And while the poem was lovely, what could be a better birthday gift than enjoying the passion and care of his oldest friend?

At the end of this chorus, he draws the song to a close and puts down the bow to his instrument. ]

A splendid rendition.

[ Lowering the flute and closing the performers' distance between them. ]

A duet is only as good as one's partner.

[ He offers a hand out to Venti, palm up. ]

Being modest for me on this day of my birth. To what do I owe this honor?

[ Placing his free hand in Zhongli's ]

Can a musician not appreciate the talents of others?

[ Pulling him in closer. ]

Perhaps.

But you are not always so straightforward.

[ Tilting his head teasingly ]

No? Well then, I can't account for it at all. You'll just have to make your own guesses.

[ He leans in to place a kiss on Venti's forehead. ]

Thank you.

The gesture was incredibly sweet.

[ He closes his eyes with a satisfied sigh, swaying forward to hook his arms around Zhongli's shoulders ]

I can't offer much . . . certainly not riches, or conquests, or that world you dream of, but . . .

Whatever would bring you peace and happiness, I'd do what I can.

[ His arms wrap around Venti in turn, holding him close. ]

You're part of the world I dream of. Who you are and nothing else.

I do not wish for anything more from you.

[ Chuckling a little against his chest ]

I know. Fancy abodes aside, you've never asked much for yourself, you know.

I wondered if it's just because you know how flighty and unreliable I am.

[ #jokes ]

Barbatos...

I will concede to flighty, but I will not accept you calling yourself unreliable.

. . .

This new, softer Morax continues to surprise me every day.

[ He set that roast up for you and everything ]

This softer Morax sees no need for untrue or unkind accusations.

Especially when there are many existing faults I could name.

[ W O W ]

Okay, okay, subject change.

The floor is yours, great bard of Teyvat.

[ Stepping up until they're nose-to-nose ]

What was it you said . . . ? A date to mark endings, but also beginnings?

So why don't we celebrate that? And you can tell me all about the sorts of beginnings you wish to create.

[ There is no hesitation in his answer. ]

I wish to get to know you better. I wish to know the things that you love and that you have lost as intimately as you know mine.

[ Venti blinks up at him for a long moment, clearly taken aback by this answer. ]

. . . That's what you want?

[ That's so dour . . . isn't it? ]

Do not feel pressured if it something that you do not wish to share.

It's not that at all.

I'm just . . . surprised.

Is it so surprising?

I want to be your friend first, Barbatos, before being your ally.

I wish to enjoy relationships as mortals would. Without obligations.

. . . Alright.

I suppose it just takes a while to change expectations after a few millenniums. To be honest, I still don't really know what to expect.

Then we shall learn and stumble together.

[ A short pause ]

But please do not take that as you cannot call upon my aid whenever you need it. That contract has and will always be set in stone.

Surely you know I've never doubted that.

No, but it bears repeating all the same.

Things are changing -- we are changing. And I do not know what the future will hold except my word that I wish to keep you safe.

. . .

[ Placing a hand on Zhongli's forearm ]

I don't have much capacity to keep you safe in return. But I do wish to keep you happy.

Pinocchio: You said you wanted to clear the air
Pinocchio: Come to Baritones when you've recovered

[ Too bad he doesn't get the Pinocchio reference.

Within the hour: ]

Glaze Lily: I shall be at BARiTONES shortly.

[ don't worry neither does he or he would have changed his name!! He will wait outside of Baritones and gesture at him to come inside once he's there ]

[ He arrives perhaps a bit disheveled, messy red eyeliner not able to cover up the fact that he probably did not sleep last night.

(Did anyone really?)

But he seems composed enough to follow Scaramouche into the BARiTONES common room, gaze lingering on the fact that oh---

It does look quite like what was in his dream world, even if Zhongli has seen it in person once before. ]

We're not talking here where others can hear. My room.

[ so he'll lead him further in, to his room and then another room hidden in there - an upgrade childe bought for him. It's an inazuma-style courtyard, and he will sit on one of the benches ]

I heard you had a dream of your own. And you certainly look terrible.

[ He pauses at the Inazuma style room - it had been centuries since he'd been to Inazuma outside of ideal world Ei's throne room, so there is a bit of nostalgia as he sits down on one of the benches. ]

Considering I wandered through a realm where you were not at your best, it'd seemed only fair that I the only bar I held myself to would be to be functional and coherent.

I am more than capable of handling this conversation now.

You saw something I had no control over - had it been up for me things would have been very different. "Not at my best" doesn't even begin to cover it.

What did you want to know?

Just one question then.

Would you want a chance to start over and live a life not as a pawn of some higher power?

Mmm ... what a personal question to start with. But you've already seen enough that you shouldn't have, don't you think? It would be unfair for me to give you so much without getting anything in return, wouldn't you say, God of Contracts?

You do not seem the type to enjoy idle chatter.

But of course. Fairness should be the basis of all things, and I already have an unfair advantage.

What would you want in exchange for that answer to that question as well as what was already wrongfully taken from you?

For what was taken from me, I'll have you tell me what happened in your dream world to Tartaglia.

For your question, I want you to tell me what are your plans in being here, and what you will do when you go back to your world. Retired or not, why would Morax let himself be used by this place?

For your first request - you will swear that you will not use that information to cause him intentional harm.

Are you seriously so naive that you think me swearing it right now would mean I'd follow through? Either you'll trust it with me or you won't. But I am not forcing you to forget about what you saw in mine though I have the power to. So at least one of us is being gracious here.

If you will not agree to my terms, then there is no agreement. I am still the God of Contracts regardless of what this place deigns to do with me.

And if you have a way of leveling the field and choose not to use it, that is your choice and does not bear on my own decisions.

Fine. I won't intentionally harm him with the information. I'm only asking because he was in a bad state.

[ surely nothing to do with what he did to him in his dream no sir ]

Then let the contract be formed. And let any who renege of the contract face the Wrath of the Rock.

[ Unfortunately for Scaramouche, you've got Zhongli in a bad mood.

A real bad mood. ]

[ he has a talent for that ]

Out with it already.

If you have ever researched Liyue, you will know that is a burial ground for countless gods, friends and foe of Morax alike. As well as the resting place for many adepti and other companions long past.

My ideal world was one where I had not lost those companions.

To wake me from the dream, Tartaglia took to systematically removing each and every one at great personal cost to himself.

… there were side effects for killing them? Murder wouldn’t bother him.

But he did die a few times in my dream as well, and each time he experienced my encounter with Lilith.

If he lost part of himself with each murder … that would explain it.

Edited 2022-01-03 09:33 (UTC)

[ WHAT happened in Scara's dream world?

Ugh. His poker face is practically non-existent at this point, so he visibly tenses at "did die a few times" and "Lilith".

. . .

Well fuck. ]

[ Also how to explain this very human concept: ]

He did not lose a part of himself with each murder.

The people he was killing were important to me. And for myself caught in the dream, it was very distressing to see them killed. He was upset because he was hurting me.

[ give him a few moments, he’s trying to figure it out ]

But he was fine when we left my dream together. Even after all that.

Does he think he failed you? He had a stuffed animal in your liking, and he was clutching it.

Well. You should handle it.

Handling it is a very poor turn of phrase. As if it was a task to be completed off of some checklist.

Yes, I will tend to Tartaglia - and that would be true regardless of your request. Because I want to understand what is bothering him and help him through it.

Do you not feel the same?

I will not beg you to help him, so that’s how I’ll phrase it and if it bothers you, isn’t that too bad for you, mm?

But he wanted me to leave him alone after the dream. And I did. I want to understand what happened but I can’t help him. Even if I tried, we both know I’d make it worse. Isn’t that why you asked me to swear I won’t hurt him with this knowledge?

The contract specifies intentionally.

Learning how to navigate another person's emotional state will naturally result with both success and failure. It will take trial and error and practice and patience. That is how the relationship between the two of you will grow.

What I do not wish is for you to use that information as a result of anger or any other negative emotion just to get a rise out of him.

As for leaving him alone, Tartaglia has a certain amount of pride and does not like to appear vulnerable. A trait that I'm sure you can also relate to. Just because he wants space now does not mean that will always be the case. He just may need some time to recuperate.

I wasn't looking for advice, Morax.

[ he's crossing his arms at his chest and looking at him, and then he shrugs ]

I just know he will benefit more from your presence than mine. I don't like you, but he does. When he's ready to see me I'll talk to him too.

I am grateful for what you did in my dream. And it's why I invited you here. I will not try to push Tartaglia away from you again.

As for your original question.

I was never a pawn to any higher being. My creator abandoned me and let me live my life as I saw fit. Everything I did was because I wanted to do it. I was not cursed or manipulated by any other higher being.

If I had the chance at another life perhaps I'd simply want to never know who I truly was, and why I came to being.

I was never concerned about your attempts to do so. Tartaglia is free to make his own decisions.

. . .

But if that is your wish, then your unit abilities provide you a way to make that a reality.

No. I don't actually want to forget. If anything forgetting would be terrifying now that I know. There's a reason why my meeting with Lilith entailed losing my sense of self little by little over and over again.

Had I never known from the start perhaps I would have had different expectations. Different experiences. Maybe my ties would have truly been severed fully.

But I'm not living that life, and I will not change it now. I simply want to make it clear that my actions have been my own. It'd be so much easier to shake it off as me having been bound by fate. But what I've been bound by is my desire for revenge and hatred. And whether it will keep consuming me and everything that's unfortunate enough to come across me remains to be seen.

Still.

I'm thinking perhaps after all of this ... I might just wander a little longer. Travel to other Worlds. That was a suggestion you wrote, wasn't it?

Edited 2022-01-03 20:31 (UTC)

It was.

The stars and places that exist outside of Teyvat are almost limitless in number.

And we have the rare chance to get to experience some of them firsthand here. Surely among them, you could find a place that you would enjoy.

And if not I could always hop onto the next one, looking for something new and exciting. Endless wonder without being pathetically stuck in a single moment for eternity.

[ like someone else was hoping for ]

Alexander invited me to see his world too.

Alexander is very wise and seems to have taken quite an interest in helping you find your feet.

I think that might a good place to start your journey - so that you may have someone to guide you should you desire such a thing.

I don’t need “guidance”.

[ he definitely needs guidance ]

What about your answer, then? About what your objective is. There’s something else I need to tell you, but go on first.

[ And the realization of that seems like an Emet problem. Not a Zhongli problem. Ganba, other grandpa. ]

My objective is simple. I wish to tell the story of Teyvat and its people beyond our stars. Doing so with the Traveler was the first instance of such a opportunity. And while the circumstances of being here are quite unfortunate and against my will, the fact that Travelers from dozens of worlds exist here makes that wish all the more possible.

Do you care about Teyvat so much that you just couldn't help that? That's not worth all this effort.

I care greatly about Teyvat, yes. And for those who no longer have the chance to let their stories be told. Such is the duty of those who survive.

Had I lived as long as you have I would probably hate the place even more. But how fortunate then, that what I wanted to share is what happened to my world. My version of it, any way.

How much has Tartaglia shared with you? You already know I deflected and took the Gnosis with me. I told you about the Tataragami in the dream, and how that happened as well.

He has respected your privacy and told me very little.

[ Whether that is true or not is up for Scaramouche to decide. ]

I only know that many people there died, himself included. Though with your additional telling, it seems that death came for many.

Are there those that managed to survive? Or has the cycle of rebirth begun anew.

Not many. I was one of them, Dottore was another, though if he died before I saw him again I have no idea. I was killed at any rate, and since you Archons also lost your minds, I doubt those who survived will survive for long.

Things did get downhill once it was gods and immortal beings that begun to lose it.

I will give you a list of my movements after I took the Gnosis. If you kill me before any of that happens, your world should be safe, no? Tartaglia may end up not having the heart for it now.

An incredibly generous offer. And one I would be a fool not to accept.

...

Is this something you also do for Tartaglia?

I’m not doing it for you and I’m not doing it because I care about Teyvat. Make of that what you will.

Is this something you would rather he not know about?

[ he’s quiet for a moment as he think it over, and eventually he shakes his head ]

I already told him he should kill his version of me and take the Gnosis for himself, but he hasn’t been receptive to it.

Whether you tell him you’ll take care of it or not is up to you. For me it won’t make a difference.

Very well then. I shall leave that up to my own digression.

Is there anything else you require to have a satisfactory conclusion to our contract?

No. Go check on him an make sure he’s fine. I’ll send you that list to your phone.

[ Since Zhongli knows exactly zero about hacking and digital security. ]

Of course. I will await your correspondence.

And you, too, check on him when you are ready.

[ guess who also has zero idea about hacking and digital security ]

We'll see about that. See yourself out. Thanks for the company.

Fifty Shades of Grey; It’s Corpse Reviver, or Revie, of BARiTONES. I thought I might check up on you and see how you’re doing following that game. A lot happened, and I saw you looking a mess in the lobby afterward.

Glaze Lily: I fear that was the fate of many dreamer and dream walker alike.
Glaze Lily: Thank you for your concern, Revie.
Glaze Lily: Are you faring well yourself?

Fifty Shades of Grey; I'm fine. I didn't encounter anything I couldn't handle in either world. I think I promised to share some stories with you. Are you feeling up for a meeting?

Glaze Lily: Yes.
Glaze Lily: I would be delighted to hear them.
Glaze Lily: Do you have a preferred location?

Fifty Shades of Grey; We can meet in the park.

Glaze Lily: Please allow me some time to prepare adequate refreshments then.
Glaze Lily: Shall we meet in an hour?

Fifty Shades of Grey; Alright. I’ll see you then.

[ Zhongli arrives and starts meticulously laying out a blanket as well as baskets of light refreshment food (sandwiches, dumplings, and a meat/cheese plate) as well as two drinks from the tea room - whatever the specialty was for the day.

It's a dark and spicy chai. ]

[ Pentium approaches, surveying the refreshments from afar and feeling a bit guilty that he may not end up partaking in most of them. ] Afternoon. [ he’s still got his frustrating metal arm. ] You went above and beyond, I see.

I believe the atmosphere is important for this kind of conversation, but there is no Wanmin Restaurant here so we must regrettably make do with what we have available.

Please - help yourself to whatever you like.

… [ is it though… ] If you’re sure. I’m not going to argue. [ starts trying to see if there’s any meat, since that’s all he’s interested in. there’s the platter, but hm. ] You seem particularly fond of that restaurant. Is that where you met your mate?

[ At least the meat is carefully cut and artfully decorated to one side of the board. ]

If you feel there is a more appropriate environment, then I am more than willing to learn new traditions and ways of doing things.

[ He picks up one of the two teas. ]

As for your question - no, I did not meet Caeli there specifically. Though it was a place we went to together often, so I am not surprised that it held special emotional significance to myself.

I’m afraid I have nothing new to share. I posses a narrow scope of the world. [ he looks down at the spread. ] I didn’t know all of this was even necessary.

Ah. I didn’t get much of an opportunity to explore your world, but I did meet your dragon self and your dragon friend. [ his eyes flicker briefly to zhongli’s horns. ] I had no idea you weren’t human… do you prefer this shape? [ the human one. ]

I am half dragon and half qilin. Azhdaha - my dragon friend - the form you saw was one I carved myself for him. He is a geo elemental so he needed a body more suitable for living above ground.

[ A considering sip ]

I do not know that I prefer one form over the other. I only know that the production has granted me a sort of hybrid between the two. And as I am attempting to understand mortal life from a closer vantage - it is for the best that this is my current appearance.

[ pentium edges back, so he can lay down, making it easier for him to siphon meat off the platter. sorry. this is the only food he's interested in and he's going to eat it all. ] What's a qilin?

[ so in basic terms azdaha is a pet rock. got it. ] If you were back home could you still perform such feats?

[ nods, nosing a piece of cheese. ] I completely understand. A lot of humans tend to prefer things that are similar to them in nature, as things that look different frighten and confuse them. Not all of them are open minded. I thought your dragon form was cute.

[ Sorry he lost the rest of the questions in that last bit, blinking owlishly at Pentium for a moment. ]

Cute?

I cannot say that was my intention. But I am glad that you did not find it overly intimidating.

Which - I've been meaning to ask though I am worried that this may come across as rude, but I have never seen a being quite like you before. Does your species have a name?

Attractive? [ is that better? he certainly didn’t find it intimidating… oops. ] I don’t often see many non humans anymore, so it was a breath of fresh air.

[ Pentium laughs. ] Don’t feel the need to be overly careful. Some questions require a poke and a prod, my feelings won’t be hurt. It doesn’t have a name because I am the only one of my kind. I was born in a lab, created, really, from a number of other species…

[ Oh... ]

Was your creator benevolent to you? That is quite the responsibility - bringing new life into the world. Much more so a life unique to all others.

I’m afraid that’s a bit of a loaded question. Exceedingly complicated too. [ Pentium folds one claw over the other. ] My creator made me in an attempt to emulate her brother, doing so because she thought it would please him. I was not born out of love, but she did care for me if and when she could spare a moment. Perhaps feeling somewhat obligated to.

And of your own life and goals? Being creator for the purpose of another has a tendency to limit those possibilities.

Killing [ and eating ] her brother and creator is my only goal. As for what I plan on doing with my life… perhaps exploring the worlds out there. I certainly don’t plan on staying on my own world. I’m not going to be welcome there. I’ve learned I may not be hated elsewhere and I do love to learn and explore, so there’s that.

You creator was also a construct?

You could call her that yes. She isn’t human despite her appearance. She’s mostly robotic.

I ask this as an honest question, since I know it is one that many people would have strong opinions about.

What do you hope to gain from the death of her brother and creator? What reason did they have to create her in the first place?

I am looking for revenge. I want satisfaction, to know that he lives and breathes no longer, and therefore can't hurt me or her. I want him to know what it's like to endure all the things he put us through... and that is why I am going to take pleasure in ripping him limb from limb and eating him piece by piece before I even *think* about ending his miserable life. [ >:( ]

[ the next question seems to make his snout crinkle, but it might just be because now he's in a bit of a mood. he doesn't like talking about elliot at length. ] His sister died and he wanted her back, so he made a replacement.

[ He does not seem bothered or to have a particular opinion on getting one's revenge. Each world has its own laws and there is nothing unfair about an eye for an eye, all things considered.

There is a slight look of sadness at being created out of grief though: ]

Ah, I see. Doomed to never live up to the original but also never to escape from their shadow.

Might you tell me of your creator then? Fond stories. It seems you cared a great deal for her.

...exactly.

I don't have many. But I guess some of my fondest are of her singing to me.

Oh? What kind of things did she sing?

Depressing things. [ so perhaps it's not really a fond memory. ] She sang about being trapped and miserable...

I am sorry for the hardship that the two of you have faced.

No need to be sorry. I am me because of it. And I’m sure part of my suffering is why I had been chosen as a candidate for this show. Being on the production can be pretty terrible sometimes, but I am glad for my time spent here, because I am finally happy.

[ That is honestly a little surprising. ]

Are you?

Though - from what you have told me, I suppose this place does have much to offer that your previous life did not.

And I do not mean to imply that I do not appreciate you as who you are today and see you as stronger for it. But I still would like to express my condolences for your situation since I doubt those in power will realize what they have put you through.

Am I... what?

It does! I can't count on my claws how many new things I have gotten a chance to try here. It's really kind of incredible.

You implied no such thing. I hadn't meant to say you did. You're fine, Zhongli. Words can be difficult to navigate sometimes, especially when talking about delicate matters such as these.

Happy.

I am glad to here that you have found happiness here, my friend.

Yes, absolutely. Do I think I could be happier in a place that doesn’t regularly torture me and my new friends, definitely, but this is already a step up from back home, so you’ll hear little complaining from me.

[ wags his tail. ]

Did you have any other questions?

[Later in the evening, there's a knocking on Zhongli's door]

[ It opens to a Zhongli who probably wears incredibly fancy sleeping robes (purchased by his living wallet) and somehow with not a hair out of place. ]

Hurricane.

[ Waving him inside immediately. ]

Is something the matter?

I mean... kinda?

[Hesitating, then coming inside]

[ Immediately checking over for injuries as he closes the room behind him.

Not that Hurricane will recognize the architecture because it is pre-ideal world, but his room looks straight out of Liyue - complete with window overlooking a harbor. ]

Are you injured?

[Looking around, a little; his cheeks are flushed and his eyes a little glassy, but he doesn't seem injured]

Naw. But... one of the girls on Sensitiv thought the earrings might be bugged.

I went to future is now to get mine checked out, and... looks like she was right.

Bugged?

I'm not quite sure I follow.

It picks up audio. Tracks where we go, too.

In more accurate ways than the current camera network does?

I dunno. Probly, I guess?

And, like - it'll come with us inside the dorms.

[ Zhongli goes over to his desk where he starts to write in calligraphy that probably is unnecessary for such communication. ]

Are you concerned about any of the conversations you have had since acquiring it?

[Takes a beat to parse that. Then he writes back, his own handwriting decidedly sloppier:]

naw Eirene mentioned it like right away so I been careful

are you?

No, I am not.

I have not done anything that would violate the contract I have with the Production.

[ Nor would he ever. ]

Though if you are concerned, I would keep writing supplies on your person. You did say it was for audio correspondence, yes?

[Writes:]

yeah

and I usually got some origami paper and a pen on me so i'm covered

audio and tracking, sounds like

Edited 2022-01-15 03:35 (UTC)

Will this affect your movements?

[Hesitates, and then nods]

[Writes:]

i'll have to ask nem to go talk to you-know-who

i been going every day

I'm afraid the reference is lost on me but that might be for the better since I am in the same situation as you.

Is that something you think Nemesis can handle?

Edited 2022-01-16 04:02 (UTC)

[Writes:]

yeah

she's got it covered

[ And then he puts down his calligraphy pen ]

I have heard from Venti that there are other side effects to the earring, though I have either not realized they are occurring or have yet to be affected.

[ Outside of well--- sometimes he has a tail and sometimes he doesn't but that seems to be pretty standard fare for Imeeji. ]

Are you doing alright?

Yeah. I mean, could be worse?

Have you also had to deal with any strange side effects?

I think I got a fever...?

And I'm starting to come down with a cough, maybe.

[Read: he was coughing up blood earlier,]

[ He takes off a glove and reaches for Hurricane's forehead ]

May I...?

Ah - sure.

Edited 2022-01-17 05:37 (UTC)

[ He presses the back of his hand to Hurricane's forehead to indeed see if he has a fever. ]

Is your throat sore?

[He is absolutely burning up]

...kinda?

[Mostly it is his lungs, but he is not saying that,]

[ His brows furrow and a worried frown tugs at the corner of his mouth ]

Let me make you an herbal remedy.

I know that most effects cannot be treated outright, but maybe--- it will at least make you feel a little better.

You sure?

I don't want you going to any trouble. It really ain't that bad.

It is never trouble to look after those I care about. In a way, it is the opposite. Me selfishly wanting to ease their burdens for them. I wish nothing but for your good health and happiness, Hurricane.

[ As he begins to meticulously shred the paper between his fingers. ]

Now then - shall we head to the kitchen?

[He's quiet for a beat or two, absorbing that. Then, softly:]

Yeah. If that's cool?

[ knock knock knock knock knock knock. ]

Zhongliiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii. [ knock. ] Are you home? [ slaps the door and then presses himself into it, sinking down to his knees and doing some scratches. ] Zhongli Xianshennnnnnnnnnnnggggg. It's me. Don't ignore me I'm sorry.

[ Opens the door abruptly when he hears who is scratching at it. ]

Childe?

Xiansheng!

[ splat. ]

[ faceplants the floor at zhongli's feet. ]

[ He makes an aborted move to catch him but ah---

Too late.

Crouching down so he can at least help him to a sitting position. ]

You seem to be suffering from some degradation to your finer motor skills.

[ he had been real close to the floor so it's fine. he's fine. his face is fine. ] I'm suffering from something. [ sits up and reaches for him, flopping against him. ] ... [ starts chuckling, twisting around in his grip. ] Zhongli Xiansheng! have I eeeever told you that you've got a really pretty face. [ touch. he's touching. ]

[ He pets Childe's hair in return ]

Yes. You have always been very generous with your compliments.

And while I could also shower you with affectionate praise to your physical appearance and your character, I believe we should move somewhere that's not in the middle of the doorway.

Do you need assistance getting to my room?

[ he goes quiet for a few moments, just staring at zhongli as he continues to stroke his face. ] Your eyes are like gold. [ he missed just about everything you said, sorry! ] …so bright and beautiful. [ kisses under one of them, leaning almost all his weight on zhongli. yes, he’ll need a hand, unless you want him inching along the carpet to get there. ]

[ Ah. Someone has "partied" very hard, he sees. His smile grows even fonder when he realizes that Childe had stumbled his way to him to spend the night after everything.

He braces one arm under his knees and another behind his back as he scoops him up in his arms and gets to his feet. ]

You flatter me with your poetry.

[ childe grabs at zhongli’s front, clinging to him as everything spins a little. ] I’m just telling it like it is. None poetry… [ his fox ears twitch as he tilts his head to muzzle it into the crook of zhongli’s neck. ] Just letting my heart sing about you through the hole in my face.

[ The nuzzling makes it much more difficult to check to see if Childe's eyes dilate as they move to darker spaces.

Ah well---

What else can he do but chuckle fondly at the attention? He turns to press a kiss against the mop of hair between his ears. ]

That is certainly less poetic.

But before your kind words continue - might I ask what put you in this state tonight?

[ if zhongli does manage to steal a peak at his eyes, then he’ll notice they’re completely blown out. ]

A BARiTONES Live by, ah, Cosmo. He put stuff in the drinks and I challenged him to a drinks and then we drinksed the drinks and now I’m drank and feeling hot and I can see colors and sounds and all the pretty just… radiating off you in handsome waves.

I am glad you are enjoying yourself.

[ As he carefully shoulders his own door open not to jostle Childe too much in his arms. ]

Did you win?

Of course I did. He didn’t stand a chance! [ nestles some more. ] Is that what this is… everything’s so light. [ lifts his arm and stares at it as he does so. ] I feel like I could float away… [ his other hand grips onto zhongli a bit tighter. ] so don’t let go of me.

The thought never crossed my mind.

[ Even as he lies Childe carefully down on the bed, he's sure to keep pressed up against him. One hand on his arm. A shift and another on the dip of his waist. ]

But yes - I do imagine that is what has you feeling so sensitive to everything around you.

Perhaps it would be best to shed you of a few layers.

[ he keeps a hand on zhongli as he uses the other to try to unzip a button, making him altogether unsuccessful in making any removal progress. ] I don’t think they want to come off… [ getting frustrated. ]

[ Don't laugh don't laugh.

He's high as a kite and that would just be rude. ]

Here.

[ Zhongli reaches down to catch those fumbling hands in his, kissing his knuckles reverently.

Before meticulously but speedily divesting Childe of at least one layer of his clothing. The one that makes the least amount of sense aesthetically. ]

[ stares a little too intensely at his hands being taken and kissed by zhongli. oh, that… that feels nice, and he enjoys the heat sparked by the contact. ] I like that. [ childe just blurts that out as zhongli takes off a piece of his clothing. he starts trying to shake the others off, not caring for the buttons or zippers or fasteners… so probably ruining some of it in “the process” but hardly giving a shit. ]

I’m hotter now… [ way too long later. ] I don’t get it.

I believe your temperature is rising for other reasons.

[ He leans in to kiss Childe on the cheek, letting him wriggle out of his clothes in any way he pleases. ]

Perhaps you'd like to take a bath.

You do buy me a rather extravagant bathroom that we have not properly taken advantage of.

… [ ??? ] What reasons?

[ he gets one more article off after all that struggling. ]

Are you sure I won’t drown? [ he said he feels light, but he also can’t really hold himself up. ]

So…

We…

Should fuck in it?

[ clearly that’s what he meant by take advantage of it. ]

You would not drown under my watch and care.

[ A careful hand is placed on the small of his back to support him as he assists in slipping his pants down past his hips. ]

And we could. If that is what you wish.

But if you wish to save the occasion for when you feel more in control of yourself, that is also acceptable.

[ looks down to watch his pants slide over the subtle curve of his hips. ] And if I don’t care about having control… if I want to give all of that to you, assuming you want it… [ looks up at him. ]

Then I will do my best to see that you are sated and satisfied by morning.

[ He continues pulling the fabric down until it is pulled under his knees. ]

Or however long until you wish for that control back.

[ he cups zhongli’s face as he continues to undress him, aiming to give him a kiss on the lips, but he ends up kissing his forehead. ] I hope I can satisfy you too. I want to feel good for you. [ paws at zhongli’s chest in an attempt to disrobe him too, but once again he makes no progress. ]

[ His eyes briefly flutter shut when Childe kisses his forehead and his smile grows only wider at the attempts to divest him of his clothing. ]

You do. You always do.

Do I not tell you enough how completely content I am each time.

[ He scoops Childe back up in his arms to start to head to the bathroom and assuage those unfounded fears. ]

It must be due to your natural talent.

You do. You tell me a lot of wonderful things, Xiansheng. I can't tell you how happy hearing all of that makes me. It's kind of like how I'm feeling now. Light and... real good. Like you can remove all that worry and heaviness and... [ clings to him as he's moved again. ] You have that same natural talent too.

I'm glad that the drinks seems to be having no effects outside of making you feel warm and more affectionate.

[ He sets Childe on the edge of the tub so he can finish removing his last few layers of clothes, throwing them uncharacteristically wherever they land since he did promise Childe he would not let go of him. ]

And I'm glad that you know that you are loved.

That is all I could ever want.

I didn’t drink too much liquor, it’s just… ah, he said phsycodesiacs and aphrodelics, I think. Pretty sure I’m experiencing both. [ a laugh as he tries rutting against zhongli, especially when he’s removing the last of his clothes. ] I’m just exceedingly horny, really affectionate, and seeing sounds and feeling colors… only half of which isn’t normal when I’m around you.

Hmmm, I see.

[ Lightly. Teasing: ]

So if I touch your tattoo, you might very well faint on me.

No! [ yes, maybe. ] I wouldn’t faint…

[ Leans in after he has dropped the last article of clothing to the floor.

One hand presses against Childe's hip as the other reaches over to start the bath. ]

Then what? Would you scream perhaps?

Why don’t you touch it and find out?

[ Why indeed?

Zhongli presses the entire length of his palm against the mark and then presses in with the heel of it. ]

[ childe lets out an immediate moan as the full on contact of zhongli's palm to his mark floods him with a heat so intense he swears his inside have started to melt. his brain stalls and eventually just shuts down as the pleasure drowns out any thought that potentially could have happened, his body trembling as he comes; the orgasm hitting him hard and fast and leaving him a babbling mess. ]

[ who could have seen this coming? nobody. ]

[ Nobody at all.

Zhongli keeps his hand there until he feels Childe crest over the edge in pleasure before gathering him up in his arms and pulling him close. Fingers card through his hair as he murmurs warm praise against his ear. ]

Look at you - so very sensitive but valiantly taking it all the same. My precious treasure. Did you enjoy that?

[ childe tries to speak, to reply to zhongli, but he can't figure out to form a coherent thought for the life of him. whatever nonsense he ends up babbling at him is a mix of every language he knows, a few 'words' in between hot and heavy pants as he leans into zhongli. ]

[ he moves one of his arms with the coordination of a toddler, reaching for zhongli's face after a bit too much effort, so he can drag him into a sloppy and highly uncoordinated kiss. ]

[ yes, he enjoyed that. ]

Edited 2022-01-17 02:36 (UTC)

[ He kisses back, firm and with enough assertiveness to wrest control of the kiss from Childe, tongue tasting each and every delicious sound he is making. He hums thoughtfully as he strokes his hair one final time before reaching over to continue the final touches to the bath - the perfect temperature. Just that right amount of soaps and scented oil. ]

Good, because I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Perhaps we shall try it again once you've had time to calm down from such a high.

[ it doesn’t take too much effort to take control of the kiss, although childe does seem to be trying ( and rather pitifully ) to dominate zhongli in some fashion. he can barely coordinate himself let alone make any real effort, so it’s probably a bit laughable, but he’s also not going to go out without some kind of a fight… even if the fight involves a whole lot of affection. ]

Y- yeah? [ looks back at the bath. ] After the bath, maybe… you’re joining me, right, I want you close, Xiansheng.

Of course I am joining you. I promised I would make sure you did not drown after all.

[ But he does have to get back to his feet so that he can start stripping himself of his own layers.

Apologies to Childe who does not seem coordinated enough for it at the moment. ]

[ he does paw at zhongli’s clothing in an attempt to help, but he’s probably making it harder for him. ] Xiansheng~ If I do drown Will you give me mouth to mouth?

Yes. But you are not going to drown.

[ He pauses to let Childe paw at him, shifting to let the motion help devest him of at least some of his clothes. ]

So I suppose you will have to settle for a kiss instead.

I hope you are not terribly disappointed.

[ And with no more pesky clothes to deal with, Zhongli slips into the bath before attempting to pull Childe into his lap. ]

Why would I be disappointed. The only reason I would want mouth to mouth is so I could feel your lips on mine.

[ he goes easily, sinking into the tub and nestling into zhongli’s arms. ] Can I stay the night, Xiansheng?

I was hoping that you would.

[ He reaches for a sponge and begins lightly scrubbing over the curve of one shoulder and across his collarbone. ]

In fact, I was wondering if there were things that I could do to make your stays here more comfortable.

[ shuts his eyes, oozing into the touch and giving a content sigh. ] What do you mean, Xiansheng? I think we gave your room all the upgrades it needs. I don’t need all that much… a nice bed and your arms are fine.

What if we also purchased a beach here? So that you did not have to go all the way back to Wild City to be close to the water.

We could do that… or instead of just getting a beach we could kind of… make a room from scratch, one that has a little of this and that - you know! all of our favorite things. It doesn’t need to make sense, but… it’ll be kind of like us… [ reaches for zhongli’s hand, so he can bring it right into his face for a nuzzle. ] best of both worlds.

Best of both...

[ He hums, fingers brushing against Childe's skin as he relaxes into the nuzzling.

No wait.

He's trying to concentrate here.

(And yet he does not move an inch from where he is warm and comfortable.) ]

What a bout a pier from Liyue harbor?

Or a section of Yaoguang Shoal?

...my beach room is based heavily on the shoal. I don't think we need another, though I guess since it'd be in your room that'd make it different enough. [ a bit of a laugh. ] Liyue Pier is an idea. To be honest, Xiansheng, I have been wanting to buy you a room upgrade that's basically just Liyue for a while. Wouldn't that be nice? You could enjoy home away from home!

🌸🌼🌻🌷🌺🌹🍃: Moraaaaaaaaax
🌸🌼🌻🌷🌺🌹🍃: Where are you?

Glaze Lily: I am at Heart Solider.
Glaze Lily: Do you require me to be elsewhere?

🌸🌼🌻🌷🌺🌹🍃: I require your company whenever it's next available, regardless of location!

Glaze Lily: Where are you?

🌸🌼🌻🌷🌺🌹🍃: sensitIV, but I would like not to be.
🌸🌼🌻🌷🌺🌹🍃: Did you know everything in here is blood themed?

Glaze Lily: How unfortunate...
Glaze Lily: If you are looking for a different theme, however, there is a hotel which has an assortment of themed rooms.
Glaze Lily: You could have your choice of setting there.

[ . . . Does Morax know . . . ?

Y'know what. That's not Venti's responsibility. ]

🌸🌼🌻🌷🌺🌹🍃: Sure!

Glaze Lily: Meet me in the lobby and we can head there together.

🌸🌼🌻🌷🌺🌹🍃: I'm on my way ♪

[ He arrives in the lobby only a few minutes later, hair damp like maybe he just took his ~~second~~ ~~third~~ ~~???~~ shower today. He beelines for Zhongli when he spots him. ]

Morax~

Barbatos.

[ And even though sensitIV won and were healed, he still looks for injuries anyway ]

How are you doing?

Well . . .

I'm quite disgusted with many things, but that was the aim of a game like that, right?

[ He offers his arm as if they were about to walk through the streets of Liyue, instead of out into a fake-Tokyo where people were recently eaten ]

I know that Heart won, but not what you endured to get there. Aside from . . . ah, well . . .

[ Aether? ]

[ Zhongli takes the offered arm and sets them off in the direction of the Love Hotel. Even if it's a bit of a walk, it is better to be under the cool night breeze than traveling by vehicle anyway. ]

He was given a choice, and that was his wish. I will not belittle him that.

...Though we were all starving at the time.

[ He glances over at Venti ]

Is that the strongest emotion that remains --- disgust?

No, not only that.

[ A long, weary sigh ]

But I assumed the anger was obvious, given how successfully they forced everyone to act against their will.

Yes.

Hurricane had informed us that the last time this game occurred, it ended when a certain number of units had been eliminated.

It was quite a shock to see it go past the first round.

It seems the producers simply wanted a bloodbath this time around.

They must be quite satisfied, then.

[ He squeezes their joined arms, briefly. ]

Are you alright?

[ Needing to put down one's own friends is not a pattern that's escaped his notice. ]

I would not say alright. But I have accepted that which has happened during the game.

Despite all that occurred, I do not see how a better outcome could have resulted from our unit's decisions.

Ehe . . . I guess that is a very Morax point of view.

If it's not worse than that, I'll consider it something to be grateful for.

[ Another long pause ]

I saw you and Xiao during the intermission.

Ah . . .

That's right, Little Morax was keeping an eye on things, huh?

I will not press if it a story you do not wish to tell. But if you wish to talk about it, I am here.

I assume it greatly affected Xiao himself as he made a swift retreat from the Game Tower and I have not heard from him since.

. . . I'm more worried for Xiao, to be honest. I've been too cowardly to speak to him yet, since . . . there's very little I could say.

I'm not angry, though. None of us were in our right minds after being brought back.

You being angry is the least of my concerns regarding this.

Then . . .?

I am more concerned of your hurt, Barbatos. And what you might be telling yourself in regards to how it could have been avoided.

Ahhh, well . . . I think that's where some of my earlier feelings of disgust come in, if I think on it too long. But Xiao is efficient, which is a mercy in such a situation.

I'd never like to repeat it, but it won't be foremost on my mind on long nights . . . does that make sense?

Very much so.

I would say --- that is very Barbatos logic.

Hehe . . . if anyone would know, it would be you.

[ A considering pause ]

Though, I do have to ask. . .

You don't really think I'm indifferent to your thoughts and opinions, right?

Do you believe that I do not care about you?

No.

I may be greedy and shameless, but not quite so that I would put myself out for something that one-sided.

Then my answer is the same.

Though I do not always understand your logic, I respect it for the adherence to the principals which you hold so dear.

[ Giggling a little ]

That's the most diplomatic take on our ideological differences I've ever heard.

Perhaps those differences are less important now than they were before.

Yes, maybe so.

[ Venti pauses their stroll so that he can tug Zhongli into facing him ]

Some of the things said back then were my true feelings, and I'm hoping you know which. Your companionship has always brought me happiness, for thousands of years now.

[ Just the hint of a smile ]

We would not be the people we are today had we not been in each other's lives. Of this, I am quite certain of. I have and always will be pleased to know that I am a cared for companion of Barbatos.

Though I must apologize also for my own words.

I cannot say the same - if any of what I said then were my true feelings. Perhaps insecurities would be a more accurate description.

Hehe . . . you need only apologize when the buffoonish words are your own. Which is often enough!

Still, insecurities? The indomitable Lord of Geo? It's difficult to imagine.

The Lord of Geo had very strict and precise rules to live by. Yet the nature of living as a mortal is not always so clear or well established.

But that is not something that the god of freedom has to worry about too much, I imagine.

Nope, can't relate!

So, what do you think? Maybe the Archaic Lord could learn a thing or two from the god of freedom for a change?

Perhaps. I suppose we shall see.

In this, I will make neither promises nor guarantees.

Edited 2022-03-14 01:10 (UTC)

[ Laughs ]

That's the answer I would expect from a stubborn old stone!

And would you be willing to attempt an ideal of mine in exchange?

To balance the scales.

Maaaaybe. That depends on what it is.

Well far be it for me to choose one for you.

If it does not resonate with you in the first place or you do not come to initially realize its value, then I fear you would not wholly adopt it.

Ohhhh, I get to pick? Well, that's different!

Hehe, though . . . put like that, I might think Rex Lapis is fishing for compliments~~

An unnecessary endeavor. I would never practice something I was not completely confident in and the results speak for themselves, even as I have stumbled.

Futhermore---

What use are compliments to a deity that has passed on?

That does beg the question, doesn't it . . .

Does the humble Mr. Zhongli have any ideals that a former deity didn't quite share?

Zhongli does not carry the responsibilities of a deity. While Liyue still has his heart of stone, he is allowed to let other things have importance.

So it is less a different ideal and more of a celebration of a task that was seen as far into its completion as could reasonably be done.

And what of Venti - what responsibilities does he have now? And in this place.

What responsibilities . . . ?

Well -- more than he can recall having for a long time, at any rate.

So you admit that you feel you do have some?

[ Elbows him ]

Did you think I was in denial all this time?

If I am to be honest, sometimes I cannot tell when you are being flippant or serious.

But I suppose that it is intentional so I do not ask for clarification.

Edited 2022-03-20 20:02 (UTC)

Ehe . . .

[ He has the decency to sound sheepish ]

. . . Back home, Barbatos's actions or inactions didn't have much impact, by design.

That's not the case here.

And what responsibilities have you picked up - both as being part of a team and being on the unit responsible for healing?

Mmmm . . . I noticed something after one of the most recent games.

When some have had a hard time, they flee quickly, speaking to or checking on no one. I imagine they're going to find someone specific, or hide, or take time to clear their heads. Perhaps they're even trying to avoid someone present.

And as I watched, I realized that such a thing, to me, looks like a luxury that many don't realize they even have.

Ah yes, Izanagi spoke to me of this after one of first difficult games. He said personally the best we could do for the healers were to seek them so they did not have to search for us or deal with difficult patients.

I know I can not speak for all of the idols, but is there anything else we can do to make your task easier on you?

Well, it would be nice if those who always jump straight to throwing themselves in harm's way were not also the sort to play off being fine while a limb is dangling.

[ HSS callout post ]

If we started saying "fine, we won't heal you then," that might end badly for everyone, you know?

Caeli; Xiansheng, I’d like you to meet me [here]. I thought we could enjoy a nice meal together… :)

[ he can probably recognize the coordinates as one of the restaurants he took childe to at one point or another. ]

Glaze Lily: Of course.
Glaze Lily: I would enjoy that as well.
Glaze Lily: Would you like to arrive there together or shall I begin making my way over there now?

Caeli; ...oh, uhm, I... We can arrive together. It would give me the opportunity to use my car. I'll even come pick you up! Meet me in front of the hotel.

[ he had run to the mall to get a few things. ]

Glaze Lily: I shall prepare and meet you there then.
Glaze Lily: I shall see you soon, Caeli.

Caeli; I'll see you soon, Xiansheng.

[ zhongli will find him outside the hotel in his car in this suit. ]

[ While Zhongli's idea of "leisure wear" is still more akin to a three piece suit than anything comfortable--- that. That.

Well.

Let's just say, he is very appreciative of this art.

Fingertips brush carefully along Childe's arm, careful not to wrinkle the fine material. ]

You look exceedingly handsome today.

Perhaps I should also have dressed up as well.

[ childe chuckles. ] ...and this [ reaches for zhongli's own arm. ] isn't dressed up? Xiansheng, I think you look great. [ he leans over to peck him on the cheek. ] It *is* a special day though... something I believe is called 'white day'. I thought we could do something special to celebrate.

Ah yes.

[ And he slips his arm in Childe's - even if they only have as far as the car to go. ]

That's an Inazuma holiday - is it not? A day to return favor and affectionate to that which was expressed on Valentine's day.

[ nods, linking arms with zhongli and setting a hand atop his. he'll bring him to the car, stepping away only to open the door for him. ] Of course you'd be familiar with it. I figured we could go to the restaurant we had one of our first dates at. [ but, before that, he's going into the back seat to grab something. ]

[ there are a couple of wrapped items, but childe opts for a small black box tied with a golden bow. he offers it to zhongli. ] I think it's also customary to make the chocolate, so... I made these for you. [ in the package is a caramel infused milk chocolate in two separate shapes - a dragon and a whale, the two of which make a lopsided heart. the 'figures' themselves are also an 'interesting' work of art, but he did his best. ]

[ He takes the package carefully in both hands, thumbs stroking over the golden bow on top. ]

Childe...

[ And he leans in to press a soft kiss against his cheek. ]

Something to be enjoyed after our meal then? Or it is customary in Snezhnaya to open a gift once it is received?

We can enjoy the contents after the meal, but I'd like you to open it now.

[ He does indeed meticulously open the package, holding up each piece of chocolate at it is a precious gem that must be appraised from every angle. He hums thoughtfully as he sets the dragon back down carefully into the box. ]

Childe.

Did you mold these yourself?

[ he gets a little bit nervous as zhongli goes over the entire thing with a fine tooth comb. ] I did, yeah, which is why it’s a little… unique. And I wanted it to look like you too. Not just be some generic dragon.

I see you have chosen a higher quality chocolate that requires tempering and is thus much more difficult to work with. Choosing a lighter milk chocolate only enhances that difficulty.

A darker chocolate could have give you better results if presentation had been your main focus.

But it is far more endearing that you went for the most challenging route possible to sacrifice neither appearance nor flavor.

[ He wraps the bow around the now closed box and places it in his pocket for safekeeping. ]

Just as I would expect from someone who will conquer the starts someday.

Thank you, Ajax. They are beautiful. And I am sure they will taste so as well.

...real glad you like it, Xiansheng. I decided to go all out. [ he couldn't NOT for something like this. zhongli xiansheng is worth that and so much more. ] I made a bunch of different batches, but I think I finally got the ratio perfect, so it should be really good. [ and another peck. ] We can save it for after dinner.

[ He smiles fondly at the press of lips to his, used to it by this point but also still somehow always wanting more. ]

We can save it for after.

[ He glances back at the car ]

Do you wish to drive?

Yes. All you have to do is enjoy, Zhongli Xiansheng. [ he goes over to the car to open the passenger door for him. ]

[ Takes a seat in the passenger seat and oh so casually places his hand on Childe's thigh when he drives. He saw this in a romcom with Hurricane. ]

Oh, I have no doubts I will do just that.

[ he keeps one hand on the wheel, because ofc, but he sets his other hand atop zhongli's, interlocking their fingers as he takes the long ( scenic ) route there. ] I brought the chopsticks you bought for me too. [ because he's absolutely giving that another shot. ]

Did you?

Well that narrows down the type of restaurant we are going to.

[ He rubs his thumb across the side of Childe's wrists. ]

You do not have to impress me anymore. I am already impressed. But also endeared by the fact that you never give up.

...maybe not, but it's still something I'd like to master. [ or at least be able to do without dropping more than half the food on the table, himself, or the floor. ] I'm hoping to get good enough to feed you eventually. [ since zhongli has fed him time and time again. ]

Hmmmm.

I feel like such a feat is deserving of a reward. Do you not agree?

What kind of reward? [ consider his interests piqued. ]

Whatever you want within reason. Or -- whatever you want done to you.

Your preference.

I’m going to have to start thinking about it then. [ he’s trying not to get too excited, since he has yet to successfully use the chopsticks, but this is even more incentive not to fuck it up. ]

[ he keeps zhongli’s hand in his own the entire ride, though as soon as they reach the restaurant he takes it back. ] You remember this place, right? [ it’s the first restaurant they visited together. ] I thought it might be nice to come back…

I do. If I recall, I was still very cautious around you. Old wounds had yet to mend.

[ He says, stepping out of the car and reaching for Childe's hand again when he has done the same. ]

Time is a very fickle thing.

That seems like much longer ago than it actually was.

Hopefully the new memories made here today can overshadow the old. [ he squeezes zhongli’s hand, stepping closer and moving his bush of tails around him. ]

Childe--

[ He reaches out to pet each and every one, stroking them from base to tip. ]

You know how much your tail distracts me.

Good. [ chuckles. ] I do like when you pet them. [ they flit about happily. ]

[ Zhongli can't help but smile, warm and affectionate as he continues to stroke the tails.

Once Childe seems suitably distracted though, he reaches over to scritch just behind his fox ears. ]

There are many places that produce a favorable reaction. And I enjoy watching your reaction to each and every one of them.

[ the ears seem to produce more of a reaction... with childe absentmindedly leaning into the touch as they twitch with each scratch. ] Ah~ [ he shuts his eyes, tails stilling as if he's got to concentrate on how good that feels. ] What were you saying, Xiansheng?

[ Adorable.

He leans in to press a sweet kiss to his forehead while his eyes are still closed. ]

I love you.

[ the color on his face darkens instantly. ] I love you too, Zhongli Xiansheng. [ he opens his eyes, but keeps them lidded, a hand coming up to hold zhongli's cheek, so he can tip his head back and give him a proper kiss. ] I love you too...

Happy White Day, Ajax.

[ He kisses Childe back, short but no less sweet before reaching to tuck Childe's arm in his and make their way into the restaurant proper. ]

Would you like me to handle the ordering?

[ For old time's sake ]

You did already handle all of the transportation.

Happy White Day, Zhongli Xiansheng.

And yeah. You know the food better than I do, and I trust your judgement, so order whatever you like.

[ Zhongli leads Childe into the restaurant, pulling out the chair for him before he sits. He gently pushes it in once Childe is settled before taking his own chair. And then proceeds to---

Order almost half the entire menu.

He peers over the menu at Childe as he's making his final selections. ]

Is there anything you wish for me to refrain from ordering?

[ he takes a seat and picks up a menu even though zhongli is going to be taking care of all of it. he reads it over, listening as zhongli orders about half of it, ...smiling all the while. he sets it down and looks across at him, giving a shake of his head. ] No, I'll try anything at least once, and all of this sounds delicious, besides.

Then I hope your brought your appetite.

[ The meal begins with sticky rice and small plates of dumplings as well as a seafood dish that Zhongli not so discreetly slides to Childe's side of the table. A bottle of white wine is poured into two narrow crystal-like glasses - out of theme with the rest of the restaurant as is the wine itself.

He hands Childe his serving of a bowl of rice, refraining from the urge to pile it high with toppings. ]

Do impress me.

I made sure to. I know how liberal you are when ordering things off of a menu. [ he's honestly surprised at his restraint. why not one of everything! like usual. but he's glad, honestly, since he should be able to clean this plate and every other plate given to him this evening. ]

Watch this! [ he takes the bowl and picks up the chopsticks laid out to his side, but instead of helping himself to a serving of the rice he, instead, goes for a dumpling - managing to grab it... not so expertly, but despite all the trembling the sticks do he gets the morsel to his mouth. ]

[ IT TASTES SO MUCH BETTER AFTER A mild SUCCESS. ] Did you see that, Xiansheng! I nailed it. [ "nailed". ]

Of course, I'm watching. Well done, Ajax.

[ As he elegantly picks up a dumpling of his own to eat, not even bothering to hide his proud smile. ]

Though I suppose it was my oversight that I was not providing proper motivation for you. Was enjoying Liyue gastronomy to its fullest not enough persuasion for you?

[ show off ♥ ]

[ he grabs a glob of sticky rice and starts eating that after. he's definitely got a much better handle on the chopsticks... for now. ] You haf gifin me plenty of motifation, Xiansheng. [ swallows. ] Why do you think I've been trying so hard and practicing so much to get it right. [ he sets his bowl of rice down. ]

It's all been for you.

[ He places a hand to his chin, thoughtful for a very long moment. ]

So the offer to give you a reward did not influence your current performance?

I have been trying to impress you with my performance ever since you gave me those chopsticks. [ that i bought... ]

[ Ah.

He sets down his chopsticks to reach across the table and take Childe's hands in his, lifting it up to brush a kiss across his knuckles. ]

It was not my intention to belittle all the effort you have put into this.

I am impressed - always. By your tenacity. And how you would be willing to work so hard just because it is something that I care about.

[ as soon as their hands fall from zhongli's lips childe reaches to set his other hand atop their ( somewhat ) joined hands. ] Xiansheng. [ squeeze. ] I know you're not. [ he's going to remove the top hand and grab the side of his hair, so he can more easily scoot closer. ] If this was anybody else I wouldn't have bothered at all, but it's not... it's you. And I want to get good, great, even, so maybe one of these days I can feed you.

[ He glances around at the mostly empty restaurant. Go figure that dim sum was not popular on White Day. ]

Then you shall need to practice that as well.

[ And he shifts his own chair so that it is closer to Childe and he does not have to reach across the entirety of the table. ]

Would you like to try?

[ oh, oh no… ]

[ he tries to keep his cool, giving zhongli a confident smile, but there are dozens of sirens and warning bells going off in his head. he’s good, okay at best, really, so he probably shouldn’t try, but… he wants to show zhongli just how much he’s improved, and clearly one instance of doing so wasn’t enough. ]

Sure. [ he reaches for a dumpling, managing to grab it, but he’s quick to bring his other hand beneath it, so he doesn’t spoil their date by sprinkling zhongli in bits of food. ] Here, Xiansheng. [ his chopsticks shake a little, threatening to drop the morsel, but he holds fast. ] Enjoy.

[ Zhongli carefully tilts his head to adjust for the slight wobble in Childe's grip but manages to capture the dumpling in his mouth. He chews it thoughtfully before swallowing it down. ]

Exquisite.

The added romantic flair of being fed by one's partner really does add to the experience.

[ stares... at his mouth. ]

... [ clears his throat as he lifts his eyes back to zhongli's. ]

[ childe considers saying something in response, but, instead, just leans in to join their lips together for a savory kiss. ] All the more reason to get better then. [ not that he really needed another reason, but the additional motivation couldn't hurt. ]

[ It's terribly inappropriate - he thinks - to interrupt Childe's gracious dinner plans with too much distraction.

But when Childe pulls back from the kiss, Zhongli responds by leaning forward and capturing his lips again. Tongue tracing across his bottom lip until not a speck of sauce or anything else remains. ]

Yes.

All the more reason.

[ sir,
sir, you're making it real hard to want to continue eating. ]

[ he looks to his meal for a half a second and then swiftly reaches for zhongli's face, nearly falling out of his chair to do so, but he seemingly doesn't care. he kisses hims again, edging on desperate, as his other hand grabs for his chair - a way to steady himself. ]

Another time. [ he doesn't care about that right now. all he cares about is zhongli. ] I just need you right now, Zhongli Xiansheng.

Patience.

[ He reaches up to card one hand through Childe's hair, placing a chaste kiss against his jaw. ]

We wouldn't want to waste all of this food. Especially since you brought us out here specifically to enjoy this anniversary.

[ Gentle hands try to lead Childe back to his seat ]

You can be good for me, can't you?

[ On Zhongli's balcony this morning, impossibly, someone seems to have left something! How did they even manage that? Hmmmm . . .

It's a bundle of brown-and-gold cloth, folded neatly and tied off with gold ribbon. A small parchment note is tucked under the bow.

On the slim chance you find yourself without other plans this evening, you should come to sensitIV!

It isn't signed though, because why would it need to be? ]

[ Once the sun starts to set on the distant horizon, there is a knock on SensitIV's door. Zhongli is there in the new outfit provided to him by Venti, adjusting the sleeves and definitely not fussing with them. He is also carrying with him a small wicker basket with some wrapped in dark green cloth inside. ]

[ The outfit in question, for future reference.

Venti pulls the door open quickly enough, immediately breaking into a grin. ]

Oh my . . . there's a handsome dragon at the door!

Thank you for your generous gift.

[ And he holds the wicker basket out for Venti to take. ]

It is not equal in opulence to what you have gifted me, but I have prepared something for you as well.

[ He takes the basket and steps aside so Zhongli can come in. ]

It didn't have to be an exchange, silly. But . . . thank you.

It is not an exchange. It is something I have been meaning to give to you for some time.

Oh, fine, I stand corrected.

Let's retire to my room so I can open it and enjoy the sight of you~

[ Leading the way, enjoy how unappealing the Blood Dorm is these days

Venti's own room is the same as ever, though the secret doorway hasn't been closed since the time Zhongli opened it, and the walls now have a few pieces of fanart on display. ]

[ He does take a look around before sitting at the edge of Venti's bed and holding his hand out. ]

Might I see your phone?

[ Venti plops down beside him, sitting cross-legged, and sets the basket aside so he can rummage for his phone to hand over. He has yet to have reasons to be wary of such requests. ]

As long as you're not using it to send a bunch of weird old man texts about tea.

I will do nothing of the sort.

[ But he does take it, and his own phone, and starts typing for a very long time.

Almost an entire ass novel.

What is he even doing? ]

[ NOT PAYING ATTENTION TO VENTI, THAT'S WHAT!

Leaning dramatically against him ]

Moraaaaax, stop playing on the phoooone . . . what are you even doing??

I am deciding if I should go with two Colors of the Wind or one and then add a Hunter's Vantage. The latter has much richer color in the autumn season.

. . .

Huh?

There is no reason that you have to live like this.

. . . What about how I'm living?

What's happening.

There is nothing of Mondstadt in this room.

Oh . . .

I guess that's true. Well -- besides me and der Himmel.

And there is no reason for you not to live in comfort here.

I'm used to sparser accommodations than this. But you're right in that a simple room cannot compare to the skies and trees of Mondstadt.

So -- I'd like to see what kind of home it is you imagine for me.

I hope to live up to that expectation.

[ Though he does set the phone down for now. ]

I will finish the request once you have gone to bed.

So then you can get away with weird old man texts, got it!

[ Pulling the basket back into his lap. ]

Now then, it's time I addressed your first generous gift of the evening.

[ He just harrumphs - not even bothering to object to whatever an old man text is.

When the cloth is unwrapped, there will be a brooch - a cecilia made from high quality woven silk with a dark green jade gemstone serving as the center. It's very lightweight - pinnable to both a cloak or a hat depending on one's desires. ]

[ Venti traces the familiar shape in silence for a few moment, a fond smile showing through as his fingers brush the gemstone. When your rock gets you a rock that reminds him of you.

He carefully pins it to the front of his shirt, and whether it matches or not couldn't possibly matter less. ]

How wonderful . . .

[ Everything matches pastel. Pastel is the new black. ]

May you be able to carry at least a little of Mondstadt with you at all times.

The rest can be worked on later.

[ Climbing his way into Zhongli's lap now so he can rest his head against his shoulder ]

I will cherish it as I do every cecilia of Mondstadt.

Thank you, Morax.

Of course, Barbatos.

[ He pats his waist. ]

So.

For what purpose am I wearing this outfit?

Well, I wanted to make sure it fits, for starters! It's actually from Liyue, you know, as much as demons are to be believed -- not just a replica!

Do you like it?

It is crafted in a style I have not indulged in centuries. And you have painstakingly chosen my favorite shades of gold and earth.

Of course I like it.

Hehe . . . I'm glad! After all, shouldn't you also have a piece of Liyue to wear with you? That dream of yours has been on my mind . . .

Which dream are you referring to?

The one that we were cruelly tasked with dragging you out of.

It was not a cruelty.

For all of the things it could have given me, it still was at its core lies and deception. An arrogant view of what I wanted for each of you rather than what you wanted for yourselves.

Such dreams have the capacity to hurt others as few things can.

Hmmm . . .

And from what I can tell, your arrogant want for me was that I stay and pour wine on your head, hmmm?

[ can't believe Zhongli's own subconscious would put him on blast like that ]

Anything else would have not been believable.

[ Cackles ]

Oh, is that why? What's an unbelievable example, then?

You behaving.

[ Reaching up to poke his cheek ]

Now now, I don't think you actually want that at all. Can you imagine? Who would push you to the brink if I behaved? How boring! Even I shudder to imagine it!

[ He reaches up to catch that wrist. ]

I want for your happiness and nothing more.

But only you can decide what that is.

[ Stilling ]

Then it's a good thing my happiness is easily achieved, don't you think?

As simple as certain company.

[ He considers this statement for several seconds.

And then simply leans in to kiss him. ]

[ Well that's certainly an excellent outcome. He reaches up to carefully cup Zhongli's face, pulling him deeper into the kiss. ]

[ The corners of his lips tilt upward into a smile ]

Very simple to please.

Hehehe . . .

As to the other reason you're here in this outfit--

I simply wanted to admire you in it. That's fair, right?

I know not if it is fair, but it is not an uncommon practice.

Fairness would call for me to dress you up in fabrics and styles that were aesthetically pleasing to me.

Oh, is that so?

Then perhaps we can set fairness aside just for tonight and let me be selfish instead.

[ Teasing: ]

Is that an unusual circumstance?

[ Reaches up to puuuuuuull on his cheeks ]

Pinocchio: Welcome back, Morax.
Pinocchio: You're invited to Baritones for tea. As my guest.

Glaze Lily: Returned greetings to you as well, Tsukiakari.
Glaze Lily: If it is not an inconvenience, I can be there within ten minutes.

Pinocchio: Ten minutes is fine. I'll wait for you at the landing.

[ Knock knock on BARiTONES door, perhaps a little awkward because normally he would bring a gift for the host but he has negative ideas on what would be appropriate in this setting or for the recipient. ]

[ BETTER NOTHING THAN RISK SETTING HIM OFF!! And just as he said, he's waiting for him, so he lets him inside shortly after he knocks, leading him to the living room area where he already prepared their cups ]

There you are. You look the same as you did when you left.

It is an important component of being part of a brand, length of time notwithstanding.

Well, I'd hoped for some change. Maybe it'd make your character more interesting.

[ sitting down, waiting for Zhongli to do the same ]

But I didn't call you here for snide remarks and mean comments, even if I love them so much. I even prepared tea for you.

[ and he did! but he burned the black leaves and it tastes bitter and terrible. Did he test taste it? Of course he didn't. ]

Cookies were not an option.

Please do not hold back on my account. I do no wish to impose on something you enjoy.

[ Sits down and takes a sip of tea. ]

This is awful.

[ he's glaring at him now like he's offended ]

It can't possibly be that bad.

[ and then he tries it and it is that bad ]

—Tea is not an option either.

I shall not inquire to what happened to the cookies then.

But your peace offering is accepted for its intentions. Something must be weighing heavily on your mind.

[ he immediately wants to shoot back that it's not a peace offering, but it is, and denying it won't really do him any favors. So he's quiet for a moment, crossing his arms at his chest as he looks at Zhongli ]

... Tartaglia was heartbroken when you left. Not just because you weren't here, but because he wasn't sure he'd find the same version of you waiting for him home. Even telling him we could just travel to all versions of Teyvat until we found you wasn't enough to console him.

It was really annoying. I enjoyed being his sole focus for a little while but I understand that's not what he wants. Things would go a lot better if I didn't hate you, and you're not her. So I could at least give you a chance.

[ Oh.

Oh that gives him quite the pause. Add that to the list of things he never thought about because he never once considered the Tartaglia here to not be his. ]

Before we go any further, I wish to thank you for thinking of his happiness even before your own. Such admissions can be difficult to ourselves and even moreso in front of others.

And for that, I will ask what do you wish of me to prove that I am deserving of such a chance.

There's nothing to "prove". I already decided I'm giving you a chance. All you have to do now is not be irritating or annoying.

You're not a human, and you're no longer an Archon. That already plays in your favor.

Not being irritating or annoying is a rather broad request. What do you consider to be dealbreakers in this scenario?

I don't know. You've always been wise enough not to step out of line. You haven't tried to push Tartaglia away from me even though you could have. ... and you did give me some decent advice in that dream.

Maybe I should focus on getting to know you, instead. The tea, for example. You are good at preparing it, no?

I consider myself proficient, yes. But I must warn you that I am also a very strict teacher.

I only need to observe you, not learn from it. What else are you good at?

Telling stories. That is something we have in common, do we not? Even if the preferred mediums may differ.

Oh? I have quite a few ways of telling stories. Maybe I could put you on the stage one of these days.

I would be honored to see you perform. Even moreso to see a performance that you would wish to share with me.

Even if I were to give you the role of a dog?

Even if you were to give me the role of a dog.

Do you see their characteristics as something undesirable?

No, they're cute and loyal. I like them more than I like mortals. But calling someone a dog is great for a quick insult to rile them up.

Oh. I will pretend to be insulted then.

Though that is probably reflecting poor on me as a performer. And explains why you enjoy teasing Tartaglia so. He's very expressive.

[ well good job that makes him laugh ]

He's always been. Teasing him was fun even in the Fatui days. He makes it too easy.

He must have enjoyed it on some level if he kept coming back for it.

Or he just wanted me to fight him. But considering he hit on me as soon as I arrived maybe you're right.

[ Considers the list of Childe's crushes.

Draws a Venn diagram in his head laid out against their respective power levels.

Hmmmmm--- ]

Perhaps that line is more blurred than I first thought.

Though it does bring up one of your previous comments. I have no reason to keep you from Tartaglia. His ties and investment in the Harbingers and his homeland run far deeper than our time spent together in Liyue. For all of the stories he tells, I will never be able to relate to those experiences as you can.

It would not be fair to deny him of that and you if he finds solace in both.

Not even if I ended up being more troublesome? I made him miserable a couple of times, you know.

To do more than give advice when asked is to assume that I know what is best for him.

And our agreement is one of equal partnership.

How mature. If it had been me I would have done everything I could have to keep you away.

Edited 2022-07-25 18:02 (UTC)

I suppose that statement is much closer to riling me up.

But I trust Tartaglia to make the best decision for himself. He is more stubborn than perhaps both you and I.

You don't need to get riled up, I changed my mind now. I don't care about competing anymore. But that's easy to say when you already know you'd lose.

In any case I'm not going to stay in Teyvat. So it would be better if he's not alone, no?

No, he will not be alone through my presence and those other parts of Teyvat that he loves. But I find this conversation of winning and losing distasteful.

If it had been you that had been transferred by the Production, I do not doubt that Tartaglia would be unhappy. And in a manner that cannot be expressed in quantities of more or less. Just different.

Considering your past, I can see why you would not wish to stay. But surely you do not intend to just leave him behind.

[ he's quiet for a moment as he considers whether he wants to talk honestly or just make a snide remark and dismiss everything. But the point of this is getting to know each other so he can actually get over himself ]

I'm trying to, but I can't just stop thinking that I'm easy to discard and replace. Even that is easier than facing the fact he could die in the blink of an eye and I'd be unable to do anything about it. If nobody wants you and you know they'll get tired of you then you don't have to worry about stuff like that.

[ he shrugs ]

But I know we're way past that point now. Like you said, if I had been the one taken by the production, he'd also be upset. How annoying.

I'll come to visit from time to time. Maybe stay a few decades assuming we find a solution to keep him alive. But even if he becomes immortal I can't stay in Teyvat for longer than that, it would just make me angry again.

Edited 2022-07-26 08:46 (UTC)

Thank you for your honesty. That is all that I can ask of you.

It is difficult... loving those that you might long outlive. And only you can decide if it was worth it in the end.

But I still hope that you do, nonetheless. And find a life that is fulfilling to you.

Things are certainly better now than they were on Teyvat, at least.

But get up, show me how to make tea, and we can call this a successful first meeting.

The first of many.

I could brew you something from your own country, if you would prefer.

... Mmm. If we are doing that, then maybe I should take you to the room Tartaglia bought for me. You'd like the scenery.

I'd be delighted.

I'd also be delighted to see what kind of environment you enjoy when given the option to have a room be anything.

[ he’ll take him to https://imepro.dreamwidth.org/5295.html?thread=2902703#cmt2902703

the garden then, leading him to the living space inside so he can actually prepare tea ]

It was Tartaglia’s idea, but I do enjoy this. It’s beautiful and fragile.

Edited (Html hates mobile) 2022-07-30 21:11 (UTC)

[ He takes a moment to survey the surroundings when he enters because truly this place is breathtaking. ]

It is indeed both.

And quite an homage to what was in your heart.

[ After the brief moment of gawking, he does go to make the tea as he promised - meticulously laying out what he'll need for it as he tries to remember how the mikos under Yae taught him over 500 years ago. ]

[ he's actually observing him, like he's trying to learn - though whether he will or not, who knows ]

He paid attention.

Though I was supposed to buy something for him in exchange, and I haven't been able to think of what to gift him.

Are you asking for a suggestion?

If you have any, I'll take them.

When Tartaglia purchases a gift, it is one that has special meaning to the receiver. A way of letting them knows that he listens and understands them as well as wants to treasure the memories they have made together.

Surely there are things that you know about Tartaglia that no one else does. Or have experiences that only the two of you shared. Fold that into your gift, and he will be touched by both your acceptance of him and the strength of your bond.

If I were to think of something like that I should give him a way to fight every Harbinger for as long as he wants.

Heart Solider has a training room...

[ With no warning but the flapping of wings, a certain something is landing somewhat heavily on Zhongli's balcony. Did he hit the window in his haste?

. . .

It's fine. ]

Edited (just pretend it's the right journal by brain is oatmeal) 2022-07-31 01:36 (UTC)

[ Zhongli opens the door to his balcony.

Glances down.

And just wordlessly picks Venti up off the floor as if this was just an everyday occurrence. ]

Good evening.

Have you been enjoying your night?

Ouch . . . Well, I was trying to!

[ Surprisingly, he's steady on his feet once righted, seemingly not actually drunk ]

[ Putting a hand on the small of his back as he leads him inside ]

Did something happen?

Yes!

[ He harrumphs ]

I was enjoying myself at the karaoke bar -- an excellent establishment, by the way, I'm bringing the concept back to Mondstadt -- when someone shouted at me to go home. And of course, due to their phrasing, I had to obey, so I took off and before I knew it I . . .

[ Trailing off in realization as he looks around the room ]

. . . Ended up here . . .

[ Just...

Give that statement a few moments to percolate ]

[ Let's DEFLECT for a moment. While that is still processing. ]

Ah.

So the effect has not yet gone away.

[ Sir have mercy

Looking deeply embarrassed suddenly ]

Quite so.

Then I shall continue to be careful in my phrasing.

Have you finished your wanderings for the night? Enough that I might be able to help you to bed properly.

Well, with an offer like that, I might just be convinced~

Excellent.

[ Then Zhongli is going to lead Venti towards the bed with that hand still on the small of his back before giving him a little shove to sit down. ]

I have been known to offer a favorable proposal now and again.

[ Going the extra mile and outright sprawling across the bed ]

Don't let it go to that blockhead of yours.

[ Well - at least that makes it easier to remove all the accessories and the whatever corset equivalent Venti is wearing.

He hums as he slowly begins to untangle the length of his braids ]

It is not arrogance if I am correct.

[ Flustering (just a little, thank you!!!) at the insufferable smugness ]

Oh no, it's already happened . . .

[ He says, doing nothing to prove him wrong. Instead he just reaches up to pull the tie out of Zhongli's hair. ]

I'm sure you'll manage somehow.

[ He tilts his head slightly so that Venti may have easier access before folding the outer layers of clothing and setting them neatly on a chair somewhere nearby. ]

Comfortable?

Do you need water or tea to stave off the coming hangover?

[ Splaying the hair between his fingers, looking a touch smug himself now ]

I'll have you know I'm completely sober.

Well. That is certainly surprising.

[ He moves to tuck Venti into bed, careful not to wander too far and keep his ponytail out of reach. ]

Considering you were at a karaoke bar.

I got sent home before I could have too much fun.

Just how long were you there before you were asked to leave?

I dunno . . . an hour, tops?

Talk about unfair!

[ Yes, dear.

Incredibly unfair.

He pats Venti on the head. ]

Well then.

Perhaps we can visit there another time when you are feeling better.

Yeah, well, joke's on them! They arranged better plans for me.

[ Using his hold on Zhongli's hair to tug him closer, ur welcome ]

Hmmm?

[ As he lies down next to Venti, though there is an eyeroll as he's tugged by his hair.

Sir please. ]

You'd prefer to be sent home?

In this case . . . yes.

Then I hope you are prepared for a quiet night of resting.

It's past my bedtime, you know.

Awww, come now. I could play something for you! Or read you some of that poetry you care for. None of my own compositions, I promise.

Such a proposition seems one-sided. Perhaps I could suggest something that requires more active participation on both our behalves.

A duet?

Are your thoughts really so pure?

[ A beat ]

Ohhhhhhhhhhhhh, you're putting moves on me!

And very poorly so, given your reaction.

[ Climbing his way into Zhongli's lap now ]

Aw, don't take offense. I spent a thousand years flirting with you and you were too blockheaded to notice. It seems I need to adjust to the idea that you're doing it back~

Yes, there was a whole section in this book I read on how pulling on one's ponytail or braids is a sign of affection.

It was quite fascinating.

Hey, I also wrote you many pretty verses! I don't think you caught on, though, because you just critiqued my rhyme schemes. I moped for three days, and the wind didn't blow in Mondstadt at all!

[ He says, grinning fondly as he tugs at some of that hair. On cue. ]

[ HOLD UP THERE, SIR. He blinks owlishly at Venti even as his hair is tugged to one side. ]

Those were for me?

[ This does not compute ]

[ By some miracle of self-control, he does not burst out laughing ]

They were, yes.

[

Oh. ]

In retrospect, then, while I stand by my critiques, I believe that some might have come across as... harsh.

[ As in scathing.

Brutal even. ]

[ Okay. He does start laughing helplessly now, burying his face in Zhongli's shoulder. ]

So you see, [ in-between giggles ] I simply have some adjusting to do.

[ Then he misses Zhongli's extremely serious expression. ]

Would more direct flirting help such an adjustment period.

[ SIR ]

Oh yes, I'm sure it would.

[ The amusement drips off every word ]

Very well. I shall research the matter more thoroughly for a better performance in the future.

[ god he loves one (1) idiot so much. ]

Hehehe . . . okay, do your best!

But in the meantime . . . I'm still interested in a duet~

[ Give him a few seconds to process ]

And that is not an innuendo?

[ CELESTIA HELP HIM ]

Let me phrase things more clearly.

[ Using his grip on Zhongli's hair to pull him in until they're nose-to-nose ]

I want to fuck your pebble-shaped brains out.

[ Licks the tip of Venti's nose ]

I believe this would proceed more smoothly if you were as forthcoming in the future.

[ Wiggles said nose a bit, then shoves Zhongli over onto the bed. (With great effort, might we add) ]

The poet in me is weeping, but I cannot deny the evidence before my eyes.

The poet in you had many reasons to weep before. What is one more reason atop the others?

[ And then blandly, as if he was not looking up at Venti's smug face ]

Also I believe it is my turn to---

[ What did the youth call it now? ]

Top.

[ Opens his mouth to defend the plight of poets everywhere, but then gets distracted ]

Huh . . . ? Hey, you're keeping track?!

Yes.

I keep track of many things.

. . . Then . . . what else . . . ?

No.

I don't want to know. Forget it.

[ Draping himself over Zhongli, throwing his arms around his neck ]

Fine, I don't care. As long as I'm close to you, I win, hehe~

[ He rests his hands lightly on Venti's hips ]

Are you sure you do not wish to know?

--No, I'm not sure at all! You know I'm insatiably curious by nature and you're taking advantage!

Correct on both accounts.

[ As he uses the leverage on Venti's hips to roll them over so that he is on top ]

[ Making a little oof sound, hands settling at Zhongli's chest. He starts thumbing some of the clasps and buttons there open. ]

Okay, okay . . . you can tell me, and then if I don't want to hear it after all, I get to shut you up.

[ He starts to peel off Venti's pastel clothes at the same time, slipping the hoodie or whatever he is wearing off his shoulders. ]

Or.

I could tell you at the end.

It's a rare moment for me. Where I do not want to be distracted with words.

Oh?

[ He pauses his own ministrations to help ease his clothing off, fingers sliding through Zhongli's loose hair ]

Very well. I may be a lover of words, but I know the value of silence, sometimes.

Don't think I'll forget, though.

[ He rumbles noncommittedly, a half challenge for Venti to see if he will remember it or not.

Though his is not really keeping track. No. Zhongli is much more interested in dipping down enough that he can start pressing rough kisses down the length of Venti's throat. With just enough teeth to leave the skin a pleasantly flushed pink from his efforts. ]

[ It might be more challenging than Venti made it out to be, the whole saying nothing thing -- since he opens his mouth to say three different things before abandoning the effort. He offers Zhongli a satisfied hum instead, throat bobbing under his lips, fingers continuing to toy with the stray ends of his hair. Each tug coinciding with the press of Zhongli's lips.

Fair enough, Mr. Zhongli. Challenge accepted. ]

[ Lips curls into a knowing smirk as his presses a softer kiss against Venti's adams apple.

There.

He knew you could do it.

And slips down to press another kiss at the hollow his throat, teeth scraping against the collar bone. ]

[ No talking doesn't mean no whining. He's still allowed that much!

Which he does, the very moment teeth enter the picture. And he might get distracted for a looong moment imagining long, dangerous dragon teeth, so very close to the life-beat in his throat. Talons to match, too, perhaps--

Shame.

Maybe another time.

For now he tilts his head back and draws his hands appreciatively up Zhongli's back. ]

[ That sounds just pulls a different smile from him, no less confident as Zhongli moves with confidence in all things. But perhaps a little more tender that Venti is willing to be a touch vulnerable beneath him.

Zhongli takes the hands as encouragement, moving further down his body to press lighter kisses against his chest and down the plane of his stomach.

One hand shifts so that he can delicately stroke the place where Venti's wings and shoulderblades meet. ]

Beautiful.

[ The wings shift, the faintest quivering in response to those fingers so close to an area so sensitive. Venti doesn't bother masking the reaction at all, letting Zhongli feel each twitch and shift of downy feathers.

He peels one eye open to peer up at Zhongli's expression, smiling to himself when he does. ]

It takes one to know one, Mr. Zhongli.

[ So much for not talking.

To punctuate his point -- he finishes the top buttons of Zhongli's shirt, enough to push it off his shoulders, at least, revealing the geo-etched skin beneath. He traces each line with all the fascination of wind meeting its antithesis. ]

Caeli; attachment.png Thinking of you, Xiansheng.

[ Marked as read ]

[ Glaze Lily is typing...

Glaze Lily is typing...

Glaze Lily is typing... ]

Glaze Lily: Thank you.
Glaze Lily: That is very kind of you to say.
Glaze Lily: You are also very attractive as well. Both objectively and subjectively as per my very biased opinion.

[ Caeli is typing... Caeli is typing... Caeli is typing... Caeli is typing... Caeli is typing... Caeli is typing... Caeli is typing... Caeli is typing... Caeli is typing... Caeli is typing... Caeli is typing... Caeli is typing... ]

Caeli; I guess I wasn't all that clear, but thanks, Xiansheng. It's always nice to hear. Let me try again.

[ about a minute later... ]

Caeli; attachment2.png

Glaze Lily: Oh.

Glaze Lily: Just for my own confirmation.
Glaze Lily: This is not commentary on the current weather, yes?

Caeli; No. It's commentary on how you make me feel. But I guess it's the same in this case... Hot.

Glaze Lily: Understood.
Glaze Lily: Allow me a moment then.

[ And then in ten minutes, Childe will also be getting a photo from Zhongli of a bare shoulder and collarbone peeking out from underneath an obvious silk sleeping robe (that Childe probably purchased for him at some point). ]

Glaze Lily: Do you perhaps require assistance in cooling off?

[ smiles, appreciative of the sneak peek. ]

Caeli; ...you want to take responsibility? How about telling me what you'd do to help, Xiansheng.

Glaze Lily: Responsibility?
Glaze Lily: I see.
Glaze Lily: Was is I who put you in such a state?

Edited 2022-08-21 08:33 (UTC)

Caeli; Sure was. I said I was thinking of you, didn’t I… Sometimes, Xiansheng, that’s all it takes.

[ a few seconds later a zhongli gets another picture, this time of childe’s hand wrapped around his incredibly hard dick, the tip glistening with precum. ]

Caeli; So…?

[ There is another long pause with the texting message flickering on and off before ]

Glaze Lily: I do not believe I gave you permission to do that.

[ smirks, but also...
calls him. ]

[ as soon as he picks up,
IF HE PICKS UP!
~~he better pick up~~. ]

I didn't know I needed permission.

[ He picks up.

After three rings though. ]

An oversight on my part. But you are aware now. And you want to be good for me, don't you?

Is there a reason I should be good...

some kind of incentive or payoff?

The physical sensations will be heightened with the addition of praise since you respond so well to it.

I can provide a demonstration if you like. If you would be so kind as to touch yourself again.

[ he is dubious! but he listens and gives himself a stroke, from base to tip - slowly, so zhongli can hear the stuttering exhale of breath as he does so. ]

Caeli; There is something I would like to discuss with you, in person, if you don’t mind. This isn’t one of *those* texts, just to put your mind at ease, …this is more “business related”. But it pertains to you, so I want your opinion on the matter, Xiansheng.

Glaze Lily: I am uncertain what you mean by one of those texts, unless you are referring to inebriated ones.
Glaze Lily: But I am more than willing to discuss.
Glaze Lily: Where shall we meet?

[ ...it might be best that zhongli doesn't remember the stupid text scaramouche sent him from his phone all those days ago. ]

Caeli; Nevermind. Come to Wild City. I'll meet you on the landing.

Glaze Lily: Of course. I shall be there shortly.

[ Knock knock, Childe ]

[ before zhongli can get that second knock in childe is opening the door. ]

Come on in. [ smiles, motioning for him to step into the receiving room, though he's reaching for his hand as soon as he's close enough. ] Over here, let's have a seat.

[ His fingers automatically twine with Childe, more habit than anything else ]

Of course.

[ As he sits ]

Though I am also unsure what we have now that could be business related.

[ sits beside zhongli and brushes his thumb up and down the side of his wrist, not necessarily hitting the mark, given their twined fingers, but certainly eluding to his attempts. ] ...my mark's ability is not exactly the most beneficial to either of us. I think our pain tolerance is relatively high without the bolster, so I was thinking about... changing it.

I wanted to, one, let you know, since doing so would temporarily remove the mark, and I didn't want you worrying... [ and he leans in, bringing them nose to nose. ] but I also needed to make sure nobody else tried to snatch you out from under me in that brief window. [ he may be kidding about that second part. maybe. ] In all seriousness [ mostly all seriousness... ] the mark also does affect you, so I thought we could discuss it together... what I end up choosing. [ lifts zhongli's hand and twists it, so he can kiss where the mark is. ]

Childe...

[ Zhongli's look is overwhelmingly fond as he gently leans in as well to brush their cheeks together. ]

That is very kind of you to let me know. But for your second point, I do not believe any other individual on Wild City is----

[ And then his brain turns to a bunch of static noise as the mark is kissed as Zhongli takes many long slow blinks. ]

Ah.

Yes.

Something beneficial.

[ childe keeps a hold of his wrist, smiling like the sly fox he is from behind it, his lips still hovering dangerously close to the mark that's likely glowing now. ] I'm not just talking about them, ... [ his eyes catch the light and glisten as he tips his head, another kiss given to the mark. ]

[ but, yes, sure, back to business. ] It does have to be an enhancement. I'm afraid I can't pull an ability out of my ass. [ a subtle chuckle. ] ...so no way to get my Vision power back. But speed, strength, reaction time, acrobatics...

[ He huffs a breath as Childe kisses the mark again. Honestly. Is Child challenging him to keep his thoughts on this conversation?

Though Zhongli's brow does furrow as he considers the possibilities. ]

I suppose---

What do you find most lacking in your current form? I would suggest augmenting your greatest handicap but you also find joys in working within a deficiency and improving upon it.

Perhaps - what personal limitation do you find the most frustrating?

[ #guilty. ]

...that is part of the reason I had chosen a greater pain tolerance, so I could continue fighting even if my body thought it should lay down and [ die. ] give up. It was like a second, no, third wind. [ throws zhongli a sharp grin. ]

Time. [ he laughs it off. ] ...my personal limitations don't have anything to do with these abilities. I still train without them, because I want my body to be in the best shape it can possibly be in. I'm just interested in something that'll be a benefit to us both.

Let's think about some of the games we've had. I know in a lot of them we didn't have our abilities, but... if we had, then what's something that would have been incredibly beneficial?

[ At this, he squeezes Childe's hand ]

I do not wish to think of it in those terms. Games are meant to give you the illusion of success, to think that failure was wrought because one was not able to overcome the challenges.

That is not true. They are designed to make us doubt ourselves.

I know that’s not how they work, Xiansheng… and that there’s always some bullshit going on behind the scenes. It’s it just… luck. But there are some, in which we’re pitted against each other, against monsters or hazards or obstacles, I’m talking about those. I’m talking about fighting. [ because ofc he is. ] …and it should have some out of combat uses too.

Strength could be used for breaking arms or carrying a couple of wounded unitmates back to the dorm, for example. [ not the best example… ]

But if you have your abilities, you should have various methods of increasing your strength at your disposal. Transforming into a creature of greater strength being the most obvious example.

I can turn into animals to affect all of these things - strength, speed, acrobatics, reaction time - honestly, you name it and there’s likely something I can change into that covers it. It’s more so that I don’t have to. It’s so I can stay myself. I can’t exactly right all that easily as a T-Rex or an Elephant or a Cheetah. I don’t have the same dexterity or… ability to use weaponry.

I think being stronger or being faster would be better.

Then despite my own tendencies ... or perhaps because of them, I believe that speed and dexterity has more applicable uses than raw strength.

...mm, you can turn speed into strength in some scenarios, so, if we're in agreeance, then I can change pain tolerance to speed. [ ... ] This would also give me a chance to change my animal. I could pick something with wings or poison or... something like that...

But do you think a fox suits me?

[ Attempting to not look too distressed ]

Would you lose your tails if you changed your animal?

[ The important question ]

[ shakes his head. ] No, the corruption that granted me the additional tails was a package deal. I have the ears and the tails whether I'm a member of Wild City or not... [ smirks, getting all up in his face... and so he gives his nose a lick. ] You like them, don't you, Xiansheng?

[ Rubs at his nose, going just a bit cross-eyed when Childe licks it. Of course, Zhongli likes his tails. He thought he was quite obvious about it.

... But if Childe wants to hear it, then--- ]

Yes, I am quite fond of them.

Not only are they soft and pleasant to the touch but you are very expressive with them. I believe with their help I have begun to understand you a little better.

[ he is obvious about it, but childe likes hearing it. smiles, scooting closer, and bringing them all up in his space - making sure to fluff them up just for zhongli. ] And they like you too. We like you, I should say. [ he loops an arm around zhongli's waist, resting his head on his shoulder. ] ...they're not going anywhere if I change animals, but this is an opportunity to pick something that could be more effective in killing somebody.

You know what I think would be kind of... neat? A scorpion. Can you imagine that tail... big? And venomous.

A scorpion is also well armored to protect itself.

[ He reaches over to run his fingers across one of Childe's tails, petting it reverently. ]

But do you think it suits you?

Do you not want something more akin to your element?

It is battle ready… like me. [ but beyond that, not really. ]

Like a… fish? I’m not really sure if there’s anything interesting I could get out of a fish besides breathing underwater, and I don’t really think that’s going to come in handy all that much.

…the ones that have some interesting abilities, ah, well, I wouldn’t want to make you uncomfortable.

Ajax...

You do not have to worry about my comfort in these matters. You should choose what is best for you.

[ he takes his hand and squeezes it, leaning over to brush his lips over his cheek. ] Maybe not, but I’m still trying to be considerate, because I love you… are you’ll likely have to deal with me and my abilities sooner or later. [ a bit of a chuckle. ]

[ A somewhat fond if exasperated sigh ]

As long as you respect my personal space in regards to any tentacles, then there should be no issue.

I'm not going to pick octopus, but I did consider it... as there is a venomous octopus and, not going to lie, I'm really into the idea of killing somebody like that. [ smiles. ] And the suckers could come in handy for clinging to things... but I do think I have another animal in mind - one that will fit both of our criteria.

One with or without suckers?

Would you like me any less if I had a slew of tentacles coming out of my back~ but this one doesn't have any suckers. A type of eel. You would have to deal with me being a little wriggling and potentially slimy snake like creature sometimes though.

[ Zhongli brings his hand up to brush the back of it against Childe's cheek ]

I could never love you less. You are Childe and Ajax and Caeli and Tartaglia. And I am terribly fond of every part of you.

If a wriggling eel is to be added to the list, then I will love that as well.

[ sets his hand on zhongli's and smiles, his face starting to hurt, because he's just so damn happy. scoots a little closer, giving him a chaste kiss. ] And I you, Xiansheng. I don't think there will be many situations where you'll have to deal with that, as I imagine I'll mostly still turn into an arctic fox, but I just won't be able to talk to you in that form anymore. A real shame, but... as this specific type of eel I'll gain the ability to electrocute people, which will almost be like having my delusion back.

Indeed. I believe that you would be less restless if you were once again connected with the elements.

As for not being able to speak in your arctic fox form --- while regrettable, perhaps it is for the best. That way you can use such a form for resting. A fox can still curl up near a fire and regain their strength.

I'll be able to connect with them both this way. [ he takes out his phone to make the purchase. ] I'll be without all of my abilities for a little bit... [ sets a hand on zhongli's chest, nudging him backward. ] did you want to take advantage of that for anything~

And, mm, it could be nice to use that form for r&r.

[ Zhongli topples, but in the process grips onto Childe's shirt and pulls him down with him. ]

Is that an invitation to take advantage of your situation?

[ manages to get a hand down on the side of zhongli's face to avoid crushing him. ] Absolutely. [ makes the purchase - though his fox ears and tail[s] don't go away, as they're corruptions. ] I'm at the mercy of a dragon... but not just any dragon, my fiance~

Hmmm.

[ And he places a hand on Childe's hip, thumbing across whatever exposed skin he can find. ]

And is there something you want in particular?

A fantasy that you've been wanting to try?

...similar to how I have used my pheromones on you, to drive you crazy, Heart Solider has that emotional tether ability, yeah, ..? Use it. I won't be able to do anything to try to retaliate, beyond what a normal human can do. [ so it's not like he could try to use his own abilities to deter or distract zhongli, and he may be interested in having control stripped of him as he drowns in feelings. ]

[ Zhongli's hands come up to cup Childe's face at the suggestion, eyes meeting his so he can see Childe's expression. ]

Are you sure you want this?

While I have no qualm about offering my feelings to you, that is quite the amount of vulnerability you would be expressing to me.

[ childe gazes back at him fondly. ] I’d like to try it. I’m sure it’s going to be a lot, but… I know how I feel, how… you feel, and I trust you. If something should start to go awry, then I’m sure you’ll sever the bond, but I can’t imagine it would, …not when you’re involved and… [ turns his head and kisses the center of his palm, tilting his head just so, so he can nuzzle his cheek into it. ] I want to be overwhelmed.

Then I would be honored to show you how much I love you.

[ His thumb traces over Childe's bottom lip. ]

May I switch our positions? I want you to be a comfortable as possible.

[ ...resists the urge to om nom. ]

Of course. You don't have to ask, Xiansheng. I'm at your mercy, remember~

My mercy, hmmm?

[ Pliant as Childe is right now, it is simple to flip their positions so he is pressed into the mattress with Zhongli poised over him. Zhongli braces one arm near his head, supporting his own weight as he affectionately brushes a lock of Childe's untamable hair from his eyes. Then with a soft smile, he leans down until they are barely touching, warm breath ghosting over Childe's cheek. ]

Then I promise to be gentle.

[ Zhongli leans down the rest of the way, placing a chaste kiss against Childe's lips as he opens the bond. The first feeling to wash over him will be (unsurprisingly) love - pure and uncomplicated. As sturdy and steady as the earth beneath their feet - the foundation of everything. Other emotions trickle in from the sides like streams dripping down a mountain. There is fondness, adoration, a little bit of exasperation.

And then there is peace and home and hearth. A place for Zhongli to always return to in spite of all the chaos and uncertainty that envelops them.

A few other emotions also bleed in, light yet distracting like droplets of rain. Concern over Childe's well being. Sadness at those that have already departed such as Hurricane and Cardinal. But they quickly seep into the earth and fade, not forgotten but set aside for the time being. ]

[ as soon as zhongli flips them childe chuckles - light, airy, and affectionate. he smiles, his eyes becoming lidded as he leans into the touch, easily becoming drunk on the touch. ] Xiansheng... you tease. [ he keens, quietly, a mere whisper as goosebumps rise on his skin as his breath hits him. ]

[ childe melts into the kiss, pressing firmly, and chasing the feelings that flood into the bond once its opened. his own feelings follow like a tidal wave, crashing in just as fiercely as he often does. a torrent of unadulterated love that surges to envelop him like a blanket. the exasperation isn't unsurprising. childe knows how he is. how he affects people. but he's glad that zhongli has accepted him for all that he is... so the fondness oozes in, warm and comforting. ]

[ there are a couple other sparks of indiscernible feelings - self doubt, and perhaps a few other things... but it all roots itself firmly in his ties to the abyss. all of that tapers, swiftly replaced by the swell of the other feelings once again. ]

[ He notes the other deeper feelings, but does not press and does not push them. Instead, Zhongli welcomes Childe's other emotions - the love, the affection, and most importantly the acceptance.

Hands roam down the front of Childe's shirt, peeling away the layers of clothing as everything colors with a playful edge, something teasing. And something new and unsure since Zhongli has never attempted this playfulness that Childe so effortlessly draws out of him. ]

Ah, now I have confirmation that you do in fact enjoy such teasing.

I'm afraid I have no choice but to continue it.

[ And he presses a line of kisses up the length of Childe's jaw - only stopping when he has brushed the sensitive skin right below his ear. ]

...hah, y- you didn't believe me all the times I had said as much be- before... [ a broken laugh as he squirms under his teasing ministrations. his lashes flutter for a moment, eventually closing as he lifts himself up and off the bed just a few inches, trying to press closer and force more contact between them. ] Please. [ childe hums, opening his eyes to gaze sidelong at zhongli. ] I could never ask you to stop. Feels... good, especially like this.

[ Zhongli gives Childe a fond smile when he looks up at him, reaching to cradle his cheek in one of his palms. ]

I love you.

Please allow me to show you how much.

[ And he presses a kiss to the tattoo, pressing all of his feelings of love and desire and want (he wants so much from Childe his all his everything everything that he is willing to give). ]

Love you too, and... and mm'kayyy. [ he is not expecting the kiss to the tattoo, so the instant jolt it sends through him is startling. it stirs a maelstrom of arousal that may potentially blindside zhongli if he's not properly prepared for it. childe cries out, a blush overtaking his face as love cultimates behind it, oozing out as childe's brain seems to short circuit just a bit, namely because zhongli's feelings pummel him into submission. he jerks his hips, chasing his lips and the contact they brought. ] Xiansheng!

[ Zhongli has the nerve to huff out an amused laugh, an amusement which bleeds through the bond. He is momentarily rattled from the sheer intensity of the arousal when the tattoo is kissed, but once he comes back to himself, Childe's reaction can be described only as adorable.

He pulls back, tease that he is and has promised to be. ]

Yes, Ajax. I will take care of you shortly.

[ At least there is honesty behind that statement. ]

[ zhongli has sparked a fire in his gut, one that is spreading rapidly throughout his entire body and dialing up the heat to eleven. he makes an incoherent sound, his mind slowly but surely piecing itself together. ] …do you feel it. [ there’s not too much going on in his head, it’s a smokey haze of intense arousal that pulses with each passing second, the subtlest of touches to his tattoo causing a heated ripple that shakes him to his core and tearing a moan out of him. ] How it feels, how you make me feel…

I do.

[ There is a pause, a contemplative one. It feels odd, for lack of a better term. Zhongli almost getting lost in his own memories and experiences as logic as only someone who has seen millennia can do. It's like a few moments and eternity pass with the span of a few breaths before the emotions return - before Zhongli returns to himself. ]

But if it is all the same to you...

[ He hooks his fingers in the waistband of Childe's pants as he pulls them down and over his hips ]

I'd like to make you feel that way without assistance.

[ And the next kiss is placed well below the tattoo and its influence, a hint of determination and challenge seeping into the bond. Like it is now a personal goal of his to pick Childe apart piece by piece without any help from the production.

Because it is. ]

…hah, you know, Xiansheng. It just, all it does is amplify the feelings that are already there. It dials everything up to 100, instantly. It’s not like it’s fabricating anything. [ if that’s what he thought it might be doing. ] But… that’s fair, and if you’d like to, then go ahead… I want you to enjoy yourself too. [ he gives him a crooked smile, the kiss causing another warm surge to flood the bond as the determination and competitive nature burning fiercely in zhongli sparks another kind of arousal… one that only supplements what he’s already feeling, bolstering it to lift it higher and higher. ] …show me.

[ Zhongli smiles fondly back before pressing a kiss against the tip, laves his tongue along the length to feel firsthand the physical reaction as well as the emotional response. Once satisfied, he takes Childe completely into his mouth - deep. Until he feels him nearly hit the back of his throat.

And then Zhongli works him over, tongue wrapping and pressing against the warm flesh in patterns that are suited for a tongue much longer than the one he currently has. He hums, pleased. As Childe's arousal feeds his own in a continually escalating positive feedback loop.

And for a moment, he forgets that he is supposed to be teasing to Childe. That it is supposed to be a slow steady buildup of pleasure.

Now.

Now he's attempting to bring Childe to completion as soon as possible. ]

[ this is the exact opposite of teasing! childe's hands fly to zhongli's head, fingers digging into his head and applying enough pressure to make themselves known, but not cause any kind of discomfort. childe is... torn. on the one hand he wants zhongli to edge mercilessly edge him, tease him to insanity, but, on the other hand, he's enjoying this... the feeling of pure bliss at the ~~hand~~ mouth of his fiance. he moans loudly, lewdly, holding his head steady as he starts fucking his face. ]

...ah, h- hah, Zhongli, keep... keeping working your tongue like, like that and, and you're going to give me ideas. [ he already has ideas. bad ideas. ] Xiansheng... I want you to, in your dragon form, a dream, I... please, I... [ his eyes flutter closed as he moans, the pleasure swiftly overtaking him. ] Zhongli~ [ he'll feel bad after, but for now he ramps up the pace as he nears his climax. ] Close, I'm close, I- [ and he's falling. he sees a brilliant display of stars as everything hits him all at once, the fire that had been kindling all this time finally completely combusting to swallow him whole. ]

[ He does not respond to Childe - nor can he with his mouth preoccupied. But he does listen. In his dragon form? Hmmmm. Such a thing could be possible in a dream, though that ability had been stripped of Zhongli like so many others when arriving here.

He takes the sounds that Childe makes as encouragement to keep going, hands gripping him equally tight at the waist to keep him pinned down as he works over every inch of him. He makes a surprised noise when Childe finds his release, not quite prepared for it - but it settles quickly for him enough to swallow.

And continue working him over even after he's found release. ]

...a- ah! Zhongli, pl- please. Fuck. [ as zhongli helps him through his orgasm he keens, hips jerking as his hand falls from his head to his cheek. he cradles it, eyes falling shut as he pants, trying to find his composure to no avail. it doesn't help that zhongli doesn't stop. ] Zhongli, Zhongli, Zhongli, ... [ he chants, like a mantra, trying to find the ground beneath his feet, but he's getting hard again. ] Fuck me, want you to, please, fuck me.

[ Zhongli pulls off with a wet pop and a lazy smile, leaning into that touch and looking up at Childe through half-lidded eyes. He lets his own desire flow through the bond then, strong and unyielding. Overwhelming. He knows he can be impassive sometimes, hard to read.

So just this once - he wants Childe to feel how much he wants him. How much words like that affect him even if does not show in his expression.

And he wants Childe very very much.

Zhongli places a kiss, languid and content and still below the tattoo on his stomach. ]

Alright.

[ childe has never thought that, not once, because he has caught the subtle hints zhongli drops here and there… aware of it or not. how a pink blush hits the tips of his ears when childe would brush their hands or their legs, how his eyes would smile and catch the sun in such a perfect way to light his heart on fire, or how his nostrils would flare when he had gotten hurt from pushing himself to hard - zhongli having accepted that this would happen time and time again - and as childe recounted the battle he’d tend to his wounds. and all the other subtle cues that childe sees because he just can’t help but stare at him because he’s so helplessly in love. ]

[ so he immediately lets those feelings swallow him whole, accepting them into his heart only for his own to pour out and mingle with zhongli’s. ]

…c’Mere. [ he tries to coax him closer, desperate for a proper kiss. ] I love you, Xiansheng. Love you so much. [ yes the bond has probably made that very obvious, but he still wants to say it. ] You make me so happy.

[ It is obvious. So very very obvious. But to be able to hear and feel it at the same time, to be wrapped in that kind of warmth and acceptance - Zhongli will take and take every scrap of it greedily as he tries to pour his own love back in return.

This precious and endearing and contradictory marvel of a mortal.

Zhongli kisses back. Properly. Deeply. One hand pressed against Childe's heart and the other in his hair. ]

I love you, too, Ajax.

More than words can properly convey.

[ childe sets his hand atop zhongli’s and squeezes it, kissing him back with as much passion as he can muster - his head in the clouds and beyond. ] I, I know. [ a blissed out laugh, his face pink as he echoes the sentiment a second time, except more quietly. ] I know. [ he smiles, giving zhongli a kiss to the corner of his lips. ]

… [ he doesn’t move back, almost hiding his face against zhongli’s as a sudden spike of embarrassment will hit zhongli like a truck. ] Fuck me… slowly? I don’t really want this to end. [ he knows he’s normally like a wild animal, a crazed killing machine, but all of these feelings… he really does want to stay like this, in this stupor of bliss, forever. ]

[ Unfortunately, that spike of embarrassment is reciprocated with just a feeling of pure endearment. Adorable really, that this confident and brash young man feels nervous asking for such a thing. Something that Zhongli is more than happy to provide. ]

Yes.

But instead of calling it fucking you slowly. How about---?

[ And he has to pull back (regrettably - even through the bond) in order to strip himself bare of his remaining garments so he can return flush skin to skin against Childe. ]

I make love to you.

[ childe's face burns a bright red, so much so that zhongli can probably feel the heat coming off of it. he gives a nervous chuckle, his embarrassment melting away as his endearment smothers it. ] H- Hah, of course, Xiansheng. Lets make love. [ he, too, hates to see him pull back, even if it IS just a little bit and even if it IS so that he can remove his clothes. his smile reaches his ears, one of his hands rising to meet zhongli's chest as soon as its exposed, so he can map out the expanse of his chiseled chest. ]

So perfect, Xiansheng~

Mmmmm, yes. It is an asset that is well known in the literature - the chest of Rex Lapis.

[ Each touch and brush of Childe's fingers sends a spark of arousal through him, building and growing brighter even as Zhongli's own touches become softer and gentler. He tucks a lock of hair behind Childe's ear, kissing just below it, as he slots himself between Childe's thighs. Warm flesh presses against warm flesh as he takes his sweet time kissing down the length of Childe's jaw and neck. If there are any visible scars, Zhongli takes extra care in mapping them out with soft affection. ]

And it now belongs to you.

As does the rest of me.

…don’t tell me there’s a book solely about your chest. [ he honestly wouldn’t put it past the people of liyue. ] If there is, I guess I’ll have to find myself a copy… see how accurate it is… [ his hand continues to wander, hesitating and prompting a shudder and gasp each time his touches spark another exponentially stronger flood of arousal. he’s almost thankful when zhongli starts kissing him, because his brain had stalled out and he wouldn’t have been able to continue without another few minutes to reboot. ]

[ he keeps his hand there though, fingers splaying and gliding over to zhongli’s heart as he’s kissed and kissed and kissed. ]

And I’ll treasure all of you, Zhongli Xiansheng. I’m afraid I won’t be singing your praise in a book for the world to see, but I’ll do it to you, every day, any time, …because it’s already hard enough to keep how much I love you to myself. I love telling you, love seeing you smile, …I just love you, Zhongli, …

In the literature, in the artistry---

[ He chuckles as he begins nipping and tasting at Childe's collarbone, one hand slipping between their bodies to start easing Childe open on his fingers. ]

You do not really believe I waged battle in the garments of my statues, did you? Entirely impractical.

[ Affection wells within Zhongli as Childe traces over his heart. Fond memories of him giving his "heart" to Childe bubble to the surface as well as Childe thoroughly wrecking him in return for such a gesture. His precious Harbinger who felt the need to give whenever he was receiving. ]

While all of that sounds quite lovely, I only ask for your happiness in return, Ajax.

[ He lifts his head a little so he can watch as well as feel the emotions play across Childe's face as his fingers continue working him over. ]

Just as you love seeing my smile, so too do I adore yours.

[ artistry. ah, right, the statues. childe might have started to think about it, but whatever thoughts he had about wars waged and garments worn burst before his eyes into tens of hundreds of thousands of pretty little stars, the sensory overload coming from the flood of affection as zhongli opens him up enough to make him cry out and nearly come. it is he who is getting thoroughly wrecked now, the words heard but barely understood as he bites his lip, squirming in place and muffling another moan. ]

[ pleasure surges to the surface, so it'll certainly come as a punch to zhongli. ] H- Hahh. [ a lopsided smile as he tries to spread himself, hoping the ease of access will help zhongli fuck him open faster, because he wants more more more. ] Xiansheng. Fine, it's... I'm fine. It's good. You, I need you, please. [ do you feel that desperation? it's hot and heavy - desire its driving force. ]

[ Oh, he does.

Zhongli does feel the desperation and the desire, and for a moment it almost works - as Zhongli thrusts in deeper with his fingers, looking for the spot that will make Childe cry out in pleasure. ]

Shhh, Ajax. Shhhh.

[ There is also a soft featherlight kiss to his forehead as he keeps him there, pleasure building but not yet allowed to crest over. ]

I will take care of you. I will give myself to you. But all in good time.

[ He curls his fingers slowly before adding one more to stretch Childe open. ]

I want you to remember this not as a moment, but as a night of love. Something to cherish for the rest of your days.

I could, I cuh- cahhh, Xiansheng! [ he cries out again as zhongli thrusts into him, his back arching up and off the bed as he frantically tries to find the last piece to the pleasure puzzle. he's close, so close, and yet... he's still teetering on the edge, the frenzied state of his mind begging zhongli, over and over and over, for release. ]

...with you, al- always, Xian, Xia... Zhongli... [ he shuts his eyes, biting down on his lip as he's stretched open further. ] Kiss me then, my head it, s'already swimming...

[ Zhongli kisses those red bitten lips then, slow and languid, and slipping his tongue inside in time to the lazy movements inside of him with his fingers. He's backing off a bit, trying to cool Childe down before he enters him completely.

But what he is lacking in physical simulation, Zhongli will more than make up for in emotional.

Time is a funny thing for gods. An infinite resource yet it is measured in moments. Like the first time they met in Liyue when a friendly foreign diplomat offered to buy an expensive artifact for a clueless consultant. A trip to the Tokyo-F mall trying new modern day snacks as Childe wins him plush after plush. Warm nights tangled up in their many hiding spots around Imeeji, curled around each other and watching the world bathed is soft lantern light or starlight.

Each moment is like a crystalfly drifting past, bright and beautiful in a sea of gold. ]

[ he cools off for but a second, the embers of the fire kindling in his gut reigniting the moment zhongli re-enters him, another plea spun into a lewd moan filling the room. ]

[ all of that is really sweet and definitely something that should be cherished… but childe can barely appreciate the tender moments zhongli is throwing his way, because his brain is stuck in a never-ending tailspin. ]

[ an amalgamation of their first meal, first time holding hands, first kiss, first fuck, first time saying i love you, first time childe marked him, and so on crests over the confusion like the celestial narwhal to crash land onto zhongli - a splash of feelings too intense for words, because they likely wouldn’t make much sense… at least right now. ]

Zhongli, Zhongliiii.

Yes, Ajax.

[ Zhongli is equally breathless as he starts a steady pace, slow and steady but as deep as he can get. He enters Childe again and again, his own pleasure building even as he tries to pick through each of those memories. Memories on their own are precious, of course. But to see them from Childe's eyes - those are even more precious indeed. ]

I'm here.

May I see your pleasure? Will you allow me to feel it?

[ zhongli can certainly attempt to pick through them, but the longer this goes on the harder it is for childe to hold his concentration. one by one they start to fall apart, bursting into a beautiful array of stars as the rest of his thoughts start to swirl into an unintelligible mess of fierce emotions that do nothing but build and swell and grow. he moans, cheeks burning a bright red as something like zhongli's name gets tangled in another sound as childe does finally come, the proverbial dam breaking and the floodgates opening to drown zhongli in everything that had been mounting up until this point. ]

[ childe pants, riding the waves of pleasure to zhongli as his glassy and ( formerly ) unfocused eyes land on him. ] ...mm.

[ Zhongli pauses in that moment, caught in the pure bliss and pleasure of the moment. It is one thing to see it with his own eyes, feel it under his fingertips--- but to feel Childe's pleasure resonate with his deep within the empty cavity of his heart. ]

[ He sinks down on top of Childe, arms wrapped tight around him and face pressed into the pulse point of his throat. ]

You're beautiful.

So so beautiful.

[ moves an arm around zhongli. ] You're beautiful too, Xiansheng. [ he doesn't move his arm, but he runs his fingers up and down the small spot on his back that he can reach. ]

[ Cool.

Don't mind that you have a barnacle of an ex-Archon then, gripping very tightly like he may never let go. ]

[ childe doesn't mind in the slightest. ] ...love you, Xiansheng. [ OBVIOUSLY. ]

[ Of course, Childe loves him. Childe's love for him manifests in him quietly paying for everything while Zhongli doesn't even have to think about finances, it's wrapped up the gifts he gives him and the places he takes him for him to enjoy. The food they share and the affectionate touches and the words both soft and teasing and even exasperated. There is love in everything that Childe does for Zhongli.

And Zhongli loves him so much in return. Enough that he is so full he is almost bursting. With everything he wants to teach Childe, all the stories he wants to share, all the experiences he wants him to have. It's warm and it's comforting and it's irrational and terrifying all at the same time.

So Zhongli clings and clings, shuddering a little as he places a kiss to Childe's throat. ]

[ childe is physically and emotionally drained... all of that more than he could have ever anticipated, but all the same it had been fantastic. he nuzzles zhongli's head, humming mindlessly until- ]

Zhongli. [ he trails his hand up to his neck. ] ...you, you haven't come, ... [ opens one of his eyes to peer down at him. ] We can't stop now. [ he moves beneath him, trying to entice him to continue. ]

[ It's like pushing a boulder. Zhongli does not budge, only grips Childe tighter as he coils around him.

The bond is ... a lot. He knows it a lot. And he knows that being able to be vulnerable with Childe like this is a rare opportunity. One that he does not quite want to let go of yet.

His own pleasure and release is the last thing on his mind at the moment at he tries to keep this euphoria of feelings wrapped tightly around him. ]

Just a few more moments.

Please.

[ yeahhhh, childe didn't think he'd be all that successful in moving zhongli, but it was worth a shot. it's also hard to be mad about his failure with how zhongli is clinging to him, the bond still open between them and their feelings still flowing freely. ] ...alright, Xiansheng. Anything for you. I just... don't want you to neglect yourself, especially since I do think you'll enjoy the feeling like this. [ trails his hand back down his back, fingers dancing along his spine. ]

... [ childe thinks about all of the things zhongli had just been reminiscing about and then decides to recount his proposal to him on the beach, deciding to send that flood of feelings at him. ]

[ There is an indignant sputtering sound as Zhongli blushes up to his ears.

Unfair.

As if he will ever forget seeing Childe beam up at him, tails practically wagging, at the messy Liyuen characters written across the sand.

Unfair. ]

Wǒ ài nǐ. [ chu. ]

[ die, xiansheng. ]

[ Still buried deep within Childe, Zhongli comes on that alone. No friction, no touching. Just the warmth of Childe's body and the pleasure of his adoration.

Zhongli seizes up as he crests over the edge of pleasure, nails digging into skin and moaning Childe's name in the crook of his shoulder.

And then going completely limp against him.

Congratulations. He's dead. ]

[ childe's hand had stilled on zhongli's back, but as soon as he's reached his orgasm and he's ridden it to completion he starts rubbing it again, trying to lull him to sleep. that had been a lot and he's assuming that as soon as he passes out the bond will break, so they'll both be able to think clearly again. ] ...you did good, Xiansheng. [ kisses the crown of his head. ] Ya lyublyu vas.

Ajax...

[ Zhongli is tired. So very very exhausted both mentally and physically. Even the bonds wanes in and out as he blinks sleepily up at Childe, eyes crossed as he tries to follow the kiss to his forehead.

Sore muscles loosen the grip so they are comfortably tangled together rather than the lifeline Zhongli was treating Childe as before. He even takes a fluffy fox tail or two prisoner to cuddle with as he settles down more comfortably. ]

...let's rest now. [ because he is also exhausted. ] We can deal with all of this [ the mess. ] in the morning. [ or later, depending on whatever the hell time it is right now, he can't remember, but he also doesn't care. ]

[ childe drapes the tails zhongli didn't take hostage over him, grabbing the blanket as best he can and then shutting his eyes. ]

Mmmm....

[ Zhongli is so out of it and the bond fizzles before it sputters out completely. He leans over to place a soft kiss on Childe's cheek, brain fuzzy as he remember why he came over to Wild City in the first place.

Oh.

Right. ]

Have to keep your tails...

[ And then Zhongli snuggles up to Childe and promptly passes the fuck out ]

... [ pat pat. ] My tails aren't going anywhere. [ his original tail had been a feature of his wild city chosen animal, but then he had gotten them as a permanent corruption - sprouting five regardless of whether he consciously made the animal bits appear or not. ] I'll always have them to keep you warm. [ one last kiss and he's out too. ]

[ There's a light thump on Zhongli's balcony, and then a quiet, more-subdued-than-usual knocking at the window ]

[ It takes a few moments to hear the gentle sounds of someone slipping out of bed and padding to the window. Another few for the latch to open inwards to allow the other person entry.

He doesn't even have to look to see who it is. ]

I take it your bad day got worse?

[ He has a few splatters of blood on his face and his clothing, but appears entirely unharmed despite that. He also has a tiny box clutched in his hands.

He pads gratefully inside, wings folding behind him. ]

It . . . hasn't been great.

[ Understatement. ]

[ Sorry if he just stares at the blood, Venti.

Sometime you expect certain people to come home from a long day of whatever covered in blood. It because something normal. A habit.

Venti is not one of those people. ]

[ He stares right back for a long few moments, blinking blankly, then glances down at himself.

Ah. ]

--I'm fine! My nose got roughed up, but I fixed it. That's all. Don't worry.

[ A blink and then his composure returns. He places a hand on the small of Venti's back and guides him into the room. ]

Please. Have a seat.

Let me get something for that.

[ He goes along pliantly, curling up on the nearest soft anything ]

Okay.

[ Bed it is then.

And Zhongli will come back with sleeping robes that are definitely too big for him and a dampened washcloth which he immediately uses to wipe the dried blood off his face. ]

Edited 2022-09-15 03:05 (UTC)

[ He sighs a little, relieved, at the warmth of the cloth against his face. He busies his hands with unbottoning his shirt in the meantime, more than happy to slide into robes, even ones that are comically large on him. ]

Thank you, Morax.

[ Zhongli shifts as needed as Venti puts on the robe, fussy until there is not a smidge of blood left. The cloth and Venti's other attire get dropped off the side of the bed to be dealt with at a later time. ]

Of course.

Now it is your turn to be fussed over. I believe that is how this works.

[ Venti patiently waits until he's done, then climbs his way directly into Zhongli's lap, settling there ]

Is it? That means I'm long overdue to do some fussing over you, then.

House rules: no deflecting.

Okay, okay . . . but let me at least remember to give you this.

[ He passes over the small box, which, once opened, is a Japanese style windchime with Liyue flowers painted on the bulb ]

I've meant to for a while but kept forgetting.

[ He does not open it yet, choosing to set the gift aside for now. But rest assured on every subsequent visit, the wind chime will be prominently displayed at the window, signaling Venti's every arrival.

Instead he just leans against the headboard, tucking Venti close to him with one arm and placing his chin lightly on top of Venti's head. ]

I am sure it is lovely.

But I would rather just hold you right now.

Okay. I'm fine with that too.

[ He leans his head against Zhongli's chest, letting out a long sigh. ]

You have a way of being comforting just by being, Morax. Did I ever mention it? It was of great help to me in my early days of godhood.

The Archon War was you first, was it not? Nor had you ever led people before.

It was only natural that the rest of us would assist you in such matters.

The others did help, to an extent. But don't minimize your importance. None were as steady a reassurance as you, before or since.

I owe you quite a debt for that.

You do not owe me anything.

[ He presses a kiss to the top of Venti's head ]

Nor do I wish for anything more than your happiness and your company.

[ He reaches up to pull Zhongli's ponytail over his shoulder and begins plaiting it, idle energy in need of expenditure ]

I can gladly supply both, and it's good that you wish for them because my company is not optional.

[ He just smiles fondly at Venti, tilting his head to give him better access to his ponytail. It's a surprise his hair is not always slightly wavy consider how often Venti does that. ]

Did everything come to a--- I hesitate to use the word satisfactory, so how about livable conclusion?

[ Silence stretches on for a long moment, and then, thinly: ]

We locked her up. Chains and all.

[ His fingers continue to work, almost feverishly ]

[ One hand cards through Venti's hair ]

I suppose knowing that is only a temporary measure does not ease such a burden.

Not particularly.

Was it right for us to make this choice for her on her behalf? I don't know. It's something we should have spoken about before it came to this, but we never did.

. . .

You often speak of the illusion of choice. A tactic that the producer's use to maximize guilt among its idols.

Are you sure this choice is not one and the same?

Ah . . . ehe, maybe so.

I know that does not make the situation any easier.

Oh, but look at me, feeling sorry for myself when I'm not even the one done wrong by.

[ Sighs, letting the finished plait drop ]

I'll be fine. I'm just . . . very tired. That's why I came here.

[ Morax can fix anything ]

You are being forced to choose between multiple bad outcomes for loved ones who have been hurt.

How are you not wronged?

. . .

[ He's not really sure how to argue for what amounts to a guilt complex, so he opts to say nothing at all, just leaning his head more heavily against Zhongli's chest. ]

If you came here to rest, then we do not have to speak of such things.

But know that needing a safe space after such a tragic event is not feeling sorry for yourself.

. . . Alright.

It does sound so very reasonable when you say it, after all.

Distance is what allows us to see the moon and the stars so clearly.

Give it a night's rest and see how you feel in the morning.

Ehe . . . and I thought I was the poet between us.

It's philosophy, not poetry.

[ But Zhongli does try to lower both of them so they are lying down rather than propped up against the headboard. ]

Semantics.

[ He curls up almost entirely atop Zhongli, fingers tangling in his shirt, and lets out a long sigh as some of the tension leaves him. ]

. . . Thank you, Morax.

You are very welcome, Venti.

[ He pulls up the sheets to cover the both of them ]

You will always have a place to rest your wings here, whether you believe you need it or not.

Careful, or I might not want to ever leave.

Is that supposed to be some sort of dissuasion?

[ Snickering a little ]

I actually assumed it might be.

Ah, Barbatos.

If you just rested your wings for a bit, you would see how many people adore you.

And not because of your divinity.

[ Thankfully angles and lighting mean Zhongli probably can't see his face color, just a bit ]

Huh? That's out of nowhere . . .

It is not.

You often phrase your departure as if it is a wanted outcome.

Surely I am not the only one you do that, too. Even unconsciously.

[ Thinks really hard on this for a long moment ]

It was a joke, but . . . that's true . . . I guess I see your point . . .

It is one thing when we are---

[ Bickering like a married couple ]

Bantering. In those circumstances, I see where you would perceive it as such.

"Bantering."

Is that what we're calling it now?

I see nothing wrong with the term.

But we're obviously warring gods!

I'm retired.

--I'm a god smiting a lowly mortal!

[ In the same tone of voice as a toddler ramming dinosaur action figures together ]

[ Pinches his cheeks ]

Ow ow owwwww, hey--!!

[ Kisses the now slightly pink skin.

But not apologizing. ]

Incorrigible . . .

[ Though he leans into the touch as he says it ]

Careful.

Or you'll also begin to sound like an old man.

I don't wanna hear that from the universe's oldest fossil!!

I'll have you know that I've met at least two people here older than I.

I'm practically a awe-struck adolescent in comparison.

. . .

Really?!

Really.

I doubt that I am the oldest being in Teyvat, let alone the many worlds that exist across the stars.

[ Makes a show of thinking about it ]

I guess there's the Primordial One . . .

[ Just lets out a long sigh and kisses the top of Venti's head ]

Are you finished?

[ Tilting his head up to capture those lips with his own. ]

Fine, fine. For now, yes.

[ Hmmmm. Venti seems emotionally exhausted, and he does not want to rile him up for another challenge.

So instead he'll kiss him back. Gently. More of a comfort or intimacy than anything.

Before gathering him tighter in his arms and tucking him close to his chest. ]

For now.

[ He closes his eyes with a sigh, tension slowly seeping out of his posture. Even his wings go limp. ]

Thank you, Morax.

[ And then, softer: ]

I adore you.

[ Ah. Venti was getting soft in his old age.

(That was fine. So was Zhongli.) ]

I adore you, too, Barbatos.

Sleep.

The problems of today can be the problems of tomorrow.

As long as you're here when I wake up.

[ Needy? Never. ]

[ He brushes a stray bang from Venti's face ]

Has that ever not been the case?

I will be here in the morning. And for each morning after. And if we are ever apart, the wind will guide us back together again.

[ He doesn't answer for a long moment, swallowing over the dull ache in his throat at the thought that something might last. Something might be a safe constant, won't turn to dust in a handful of years. ]

. . . That's right. I'll make sure of that. I promise.

So there is nothing to worry about.

[ A hand reaches up to continue stroking his hair. ]

You can relax now.

[ Continued from here ]

[ Idly wondering if Childe will slip underneath the water if he goes and gets his various shampoos and soaps ]

Yes, well.

[ They ARE soft ]

Might I wash them anyway?

Edited 2022-09-17 18:53 (UTC)

Of course, Xiansheng. [ he is going to sink down into the water. ] Will you let me wash your hair too?

[ Ah---

Tries to pull him back up and precariously perch his upper body so it's slumped over the edge again ]

Of course.

... [ tries to tug him into the bath, using the full weight of his own body to do so. x3 sorry, he's just like this right now. maybe you should child(e)proof your medicines. ]

[ As he's half dragged in, still fully clothed ]

Childe.

Childe...

[ He kisses the tip of his nose ]

I have not yet gotten the shampoos yet.

[ Yes plural. Yes many. ]

[ childe snakes his arms around zhongli in an attempt to keep him in the tub. or half in the tub. whatever. ] ...there are shampoos here. [ maybe. nuzzles into him, getting him even more soaked. ]

I don't want you going too far. [ pout. ]

Alright.

[ He can never say no to this man, so he lets him drag him into the tub all the way, clothes and all. ]

I won't.

[ And he pulls Childe into his lap. ]

[ childe nestles into his lap and starts scooping up water and attempting to douse zhongli's hair, as if there's going to be any headway made in any actual washing. ] ...do you have special shampoos or something? I bet they smell nice. Like you. [ what if he just... lays his head on his shoulder and noses into his neck, nearly on the verge of passing out. ]

[ He reaches up to stroke down Childe's spine gently, helping lull him to sleep. ]

They do.

But I have some scents that I think would also suit you very nicely.

[ childe tries his best not to fall asleep, but he's not having much luck. zhongli is so nice and warm and nice. he smiles, giving him a nuzzle as he hums his acknowledgement, zhongli's words becoming muffled as childe loses track of what he's actually saying - the medication finally taking effect and knocking him out. so much for the bath. sorry he dragged you in, zhongli. ]

[ No need for apologies. That Childe feels comfortable enough to rest in his care is more than enough for any minor inconvenience.

He washes what he can with what is at arm's length - flowery soaps and the soft brushing of Childe's ears and tail. When he is satisfied with his work, Zhongli gets up out of the bath and dries them both of to the best of his ability - careful to always keep one hand on Childe's person to let him know he is there.

This is a little more difficult as he attempts to wrap Childe up in a light sleeping robe. ]

[ childe is dead to the world... so sorry he's like a literal rock and of absolutely no help. he'll feel bad he dragged zhongli into the bath when he wakes up, since that made things more difficult in the long run. once he's wrapped up in a robe he stirs a bit, tugging the collar closing and nestling into it, scooting closer to zhongli and purred softly. ]

[ He nuzzles him back, carrying him all the way to bed---

(And getting rid of the top quilt which still has eel slime on it)

To lay them both down in the comfort of blankets and pillows. ]

[ he's going to cling to zhongli like his life depends on it. hopefully zhongli didn't have any other plans for the evening... because childe's keeping him all to himself. ] Xiansheng.

Mmmm?

[ Zhongli has currently lost himself in the slow measured petting of Childe's hair. Is this act supposed to soothe himself or Childe? ]

Yes, Childe?

[ childe murmurs the most incoherent sentence known to man as he nuzzles his cheek into zhongli's chest, his arm sliding up his chest to come to rest alongside his own face. he draws little random patterns at first, nothing meaningful or special, but then he tries drawing the liyuan symbol for love... poorly. he's still half asleep, so he'll totally blame that. ]

You are precious to me as well, Childe. But sleep now.

[ And he wraps his arms warmly around the other, cuddling into that warmth. ]

We shall deal with your relaxation hangover come morning.

[ more mindless mumbling until he does konk out for good. night, zhongli. ]

[ Good night, Childe.

Zhongli falls asleep soon after, still holding Childe in his arms. He also is a notorious bed hogger. So whenever Childe does start to wake, he might find himself even further entangled in Zhongli's limbs as well as with all the remaining covers cocooned around them like a nest. ]

[ childe is normally a light sleeper, but being exhausted has him pretty knocked the fuck out. he does wake up before zhongli not-so-suprisingly... and he is tangled in a couple of limbs and a few blankets, encompassed in a lulling warmth. ] Xiansheng. [ wriggles. ] Xiansheng? [ h- he's stuck. ]

[ Zhongli huffs and says something unintelligible and not all awake under his breath as he snuggles up more to Childe.

Is something the matter, dear? ]

[ childe manages to free his arm with some effort, draping it around zhongli's shoulders as he idly begins playing with his ponytail. he gives a tug to the tie holding it in place, combing it out once its removed. ]

What was that Xiansheng? You love me? [ chuckles. ] I love you too~ [ chu - kisses the top of his head. ]

[ Zhongli blinks up sleepily at Childe before reaching over to run his own fingers through Childe's hair. ]

Please stay a while.

[ Said as if Childe hasn't been here all night ]

You're warm.

[ And currently Zhongli's pillow ]

I'm not going anywhere, Zhongli Xiansheng. Here is where I want to be besides. [ he takes zhongli's wrist and guides his hand to his mouth for a kiss. ] I should hope so. [ he chuckles, shifting a little, so he can bring his tails around and drown zhongli in them. ]

Childe.

Chiiiiiilde.

That's unfair. I have no tail of my own to counter with.

[ He says as he shifts and twists on the bed so that he can be sure to pet each tail in turn. ]

A darn shame, that. [ tsks, grinning as he plucks each tail from zhongli's hands before he can do much petting. he then drapes them over him again. ]

[ But why would you deprive Zhongli of tail pets...

Wraps one in a hug.

His tail now. ]

[ childe huffs a laugh, setting a hand on zhongli's head as he attaches himself to one of his tails. ] It seems like you're still a bit tired, Zhongli, ...why don't you close your eyes and relax. [ glides his fingers through his hair. ]

It is a much better experience when you are here with me.

[ But his eyes do droop shut ]

Do you have plans today?

No. I can stay here with you as long as you'd like me to. [ childe nestles back down into the blankets, wrapping his arms back around zhongli. ] Just take it easy today.

[ He places a kiss against Childe's shoulder. ]

I wish you to take it easy today, too.

I can do that. [ ... ] Will you let me braid you hair, Xiansheng?

[ He blinks owlishly at the request, obviously surprised but that melts into a warm smile. ]

Of course.

I used to braid Tonia's hair from time to time... [ muses, combing his fingers through zhongli's once again. ]

[ He shifts, unwinding from Childe so he can face in the other direction and make it easier for him to complete his task. ]

Something I'm sure she was proud to show off to everyone.

...you're not wrong. [ going to start braiding his hair. ] One of her favorite things to do was drag me into town and find things to add into the braids. Beads, ribbons, sometimes small little trinkets. Seeing her smile was always my favorite part, even if what she asked of me was just a little ridiculous.

[ A small chuckle as he relaxes into the gentle tugs and pulls on his hair, eyes drifting shut ]

I see she is quite convincing, just like her older brother.

It does make me want to get a few decorations for your hair though. I'm sure a couple golden beads would look really nice. And a ribbon to tie it at the end. Maybe even something to stick right here. [ he holds the braid, since he's not finished, put gently sets a finger to zhongli's head. ] Maybe a golden dragon clip or something. Or perhaps a phoenix...

[ He tips his head, far enough that he can see over his shoulder to look at Childe ]

I thought that phoenix was for you?

[ Reaches up to twist a lock of Childe's hair around one finger ]

Unless you want to be the dragon this time.

...the phoenix is for me, [ as soon as zhongli starts to turn childe tuts, giving him a kiss, and then trying to get him to stop. he's working here! ] but that's exactly why you should wear it in your hair. For me.

[ Obediently turning to face forward again ]

Then a phoenix. But one in equally cool colors as blue as well as the vibrant red of your hair.

I'm sure I could find something like that. But that will have to be for next time. You'd think I'd have some of that stuff on hand, given that grooming is one of our activities, but... I'd like to buy a special hair clip for you anyway. [ finishes the braid and uses zhongli's own hair tie to tie the end. ] Alright, finished.

Thank you.

[ He pulls it over his shoulder, running his fingers over reverently. ]

May I be allowed to groom you now?

[ scoots along to the side and smiles. ] What do you think?

And you don't have to ask, Xiansheng. Of course... if you'd like to.

[ A familiar little thump on the balcony, along with the telltale tinkling of the windchime.

It sounds more lethargic than usual, though. ]

[ Well, there is only one person who visits him in such a manner.

Zhongli sets down his book on the nightstand and goes to open the door to the balcony. ]

Barbatos...?

[ He's down one arm, damp, and shivering, eyes flicking this way and that before finally landing on Zhongli -- but a little unfocused even then, like he's seeing double images. ]

Can I stay here for a little while?

[ Zhongli does not answer Venti so much as immediately scoop him off of the balcony and brings him to the bed where he starts wrapping him in a swath of blankets. ]

You're freezing.

Warm up here for a bit and then I'll draw you a warm bath.

[ Zhongli will find that whenever he tries to move away, Venti remains latched onto him like a little bedraggled burr ]

Will you join me?

[ Zhongli's brow furrows as he watches that reaction. Cold. Missing an arm. Need to be close to another.

If he had a hand free, he'd be counting the symptoms on his fingers. This must have been a terrible game indeed. ]

Of course. If that is your wish.

[ And he will heft up the bundled Venti - blankets and all - and stagger over to the bathroom. ]

It is.

[ Leaning his head against his shoulder, fingers curling in his coat, and letting out a slow breath ]

Thank you, Morax.

[ He kneels down next to the tub, still cradling Venti to his chest as he starts preparing the bath carefully with one arm free. ]

. . .

Are you alright?

[ It seems a long as Venti's bundled up against him, he doesn't mind much of anything else ]

I'll be fine. One of the effects of this game is particularly -- cruel -- that's all.

. . .

And that effect is in addition to the fact that you are missing one arm?

I'm not fussed about the arm, they're easy enough to come by.

[ SHIT SIVS SAY ]

More troublingly, this one seems to have come with rather vivid hallucinations.

[ He refrains from looking around the bathroom as he says it ]

[ SHIT SIVS SAY ]

Is this place too similar to the one in your hallucinations? We could move to a different location.

It couldn't be farther from it, don't worry.

[ He runs his hand down Zhongli's chest, reassuring(?)

He's silent for a long moment before admitting: ]

I keep seeing that day in Khaenri'ah.

[

Record scratch ]

You are seeing---?

Ah, no need to repeat it.

[ He takes Venti's hand in his, lacing their fingers together and giving their joined hands a little squeeze. ]

You're not there, Barbatos. You're here - with me.

. . .

[ Ah, hallucinations and false memories. An enemy on which no weapon is really effective. ]

Would you like to hear a story?

[ His fingers interlace with Zhongli's in a vicegrip, even if his expression is calm ]

Hehe . . . it's rare that I'm the one being told a story.

I would like that.

Have you ever heard the Liyue proverb that a clever rabbits has three burrows?

[ Many times, almost certainly.

But what he says is: ]

No. Tell me.

It is based upon a very old story.

There once was an advisor hired by the emperor of the land. A very peculiar individual who was large in ambition but perhaps lacking in work ethic. While journeying to a town who had acquired quite a debt of dues against the kingdom, instead of collecting the dues, the advisor forgave all the village owed much to the people's rejoicing.

Due to other difficulties, the emperor eventually relieved the advisor of his duties and sent him away. The village welcomed him with open arms and he was allowed to stay there for a time, his needs provided for by the villagers. During his time there, he managed to convince another king to request his services though he had no intentions of actual employment. The first emperor, seeing his former advisor in so much demand wished to hire him back again - which the advisor accepted on the condition that the village would be protected. The emperor readily agreed to this proposal.

Caeli; Xiansheng! Would you like to come over to my cabin to celebrate the holiday?

[ The response is instantaneous ]

Glaze Lily: Childe?
Glaze Lily: Have your memories returned?

Caeli; It seems like that stupid effect finally wore off, yeah. And I remember I need to spoil you, Especially for this holiday season… So I hope you’ll come over.

Glaze Lily: Of course I will come over.
Glaze Lily: I just--- may I bring over a half finished project that I was working on?

Caeli; Half finished project… Ah, yeah, sure! What is it?

Glaze Lily: It is probably easier to explain in person.
Glaze Lily: I will be over shortly.

[ And in a few minutes there will be a knock on the Wild City door ]

Caeli; I’ll see you soon!

[ he gets into a holiday sweater and then waits for zhongli to open the door. he wags his tail in anticipation. ]

[ Childe opens the door to Zhongli in a simple dress shirt and slacks and holding a large pot in his hands. Inside the pot are uncooked but neatly folded pelmeni - perhaps a little dried out for how long Zhongli has fussed over prep.

There is a smudge of flour across the bridge of his nose that he apparently didn't catch on his way here. ]

The winter holidays are very important in Snezhnaya, are they not? Though I am not quite sure what food is served for this specific time of year.

I thought if you still lacked your memories, something traditional from your homeland might help make your first holiday here a little less dreary.

[ childe blinks on seeing the pot, his cheeks dusting red as he realizes just what he had started to do. ] Ah, Xiansheng… you… [ he chuckles, reaching to swipe that flour across the bridge of his nose, a kiss being given right after. ] They are really important, since it’s one of the few times I can usually take off and go home.

Honestly… anything made from the heart is perfect, and this is something made from the heart. But everything came back, thankfully… [ which he’s extremely happy about. ] I thought we could make dinner, cookies, and then find and decorate a tree.

[ Zhongli can't help the smile that blooms across his face at the kiss to his nose. ]

All of that sounds wonderful.

[ He raises the pot a little as he comes inside. ]

I'm sure you can suggest a number of dishes that will go well with this.

Yeah, sure, I can do that. [ he’s going to take the pot and bring it into the kitchen. ] Did you want to finish dinner first, or would you like to go find a tree, so we can decorate it… along with the rest of the house.

It would probably be best to find the tree and do the decorations first. Food should be eaten freshly after it is prepared.

Let's do that then. [ he sets the pot down on the counter and goes to fetch the axe. ] We can chop it down together.

[ While Childe is fetching the axe, Zhongli goes to the closest to get their coats and gloves and scarves. When Childe comes back with the axe, he pulls him close and starts to bundle him for the weather outside. ]

I'm afraid I am rather unfamiliar with this custom.

Will you let me know what are the qualities of the tree best suited for this celebration?

[ childe chuckles as zhongli starts bundling him up. ] You don't need to worry about me, Xiansheng, I don't mind the cold. But let's make sure you're nice and warm, since I don't know how long it's going to take to find a suitable tree. [ he's going to go fetch zhongli a hat to go along with everything else. ]

It shouldn't be *too* hard to find one... at least I don't think, but we'll need a fairly big on that's, ah, thick, since we're going to want to put lights on it and ornaments on it. Does that make... sense?

[ Unbeknownst to Childe (or perhaps it is very obvious) Zhongli is more interested in being able to freely touch him even if they are platonic rather than the careful distance he has been keeping since the game ended. He places lingering touches on Childe's hands and the inside of his wrist when Childe bundles him up in return. ]

Ah, so you are looking for something aesthetically pleasing but also sturdy enough to handle all of your decorations.

[ childe does kind of catch on as zhongli's fingers brush the inside of his wrist, and then he's taking his hand and holding it with no intention of letting go. he manages to affix the hat on his head with one hand, a kiss given to the tip of his nose before he nods and turns toward the door. ] Exactly. I'm sure you'll have a good eye for this sort of thing. You ready to head out?

Yes. I will do my best not to disappoint.

[ And Zhongli too places a kiss on the tip of Childe's nose before squeezing his hand and out they go into the snow.

Not really knowing what tree is best, he lets Childe at least lead them to wherever in this snowy forest he thinks they might find a good tree. ]

[ childe is going to keep a firm hold on zhongli's hand and lead him into the dense forest that's right beside the cabin. most of the trees look like they could be good contenders, but childe keeps looking, because there's got to be that one special tree. ]

We need a full looking one, so it can hold all of the decorations we want to put on it. And it should be big too!

[ Cute.

How is Childe so cute? ]

Big enough to scrape the ceiling in your cabin?

I'm sure that can be arranged.

[ Eventually Zhongli will point out on like so. ]

Something like this?

Haha, perhaps a little bit smaller than that, because I'd like to put a star on top, but pretty damn close! [ as soon as zhongli points out that tree he hurries over and starts circling it. ] Oooh, this one looks great! [ steps back and looks up, trying to get a feel for how tall it is compared to his house. ] I think this should be just shy of the ceiling... what do you think, Xiansheng? And do you want the honors? [ hefts the axe up. ]

How about you cut it down and I'll bring it back?

[ He leans over to ruffle Childe's hair. Can't deprive his boy of a little violence - even against an inanimate object. ]

We can divy up the work that way.

[ his tail instantly starts wagging like crazy. ] Okay! I can do that. [ he's going to turn toward the tree and go to town, cutting it down with ease, because wild city super strength! ] Xiansheng - watch out! - tiiiimber~! [ and down it goes. ]

[ One dragon catches it in its mouth and claws before it can hit the ground while Zhongli looks on, clapping. ]

Excellent work. This shall make a very fine centerpiece for your cabin.

It's going to look even better decorated. [ he slings the axe over his shoulder and heads back over to zhongli, holding a hand out to him. ] Are you ready to head back? I can make us some hot cocoa and we can begin.

[ Zhongli takes Childe's hands, lacing their fingers together and leaving the lions share of carrying the tree to his aibou outside of steadying the load occasionally. ]

I believe so.

Do we not require anything else for the decorations? Or is that something we should purchase upon our return.

I bought a bunch earlier... but if you think we're missing anything, then we can certainly just order more. I doubt there can be too many ornaments on a tree! And I want this to be the perfect mix of the both of us, so... buy away! [ squeezes his hands, moving his puff of tails around zhongli. ]

[ Childe... ]

I respectfully believe that it is possible to have too many ornaments on a tree. It is a magnificent sight by its own merit so completely covering its splendor would be its own kind of misfortune.

However---

[ Zhongli uses his free hand to wrap himself up in those tails to ward off the chill as they make their way back to the cabin ]

I look forward to complementing your current set of decorations with those I find aesthetically pleasing.

[ And baaaaaack to the cabin they go with their ginormous tree]

[ childe chuckles. he knows he's going to go overboard and that zhongli is going to have to make a conscious effort to keep him from drowning the tree in ornaments. ] I bought a bunch of different ornaments in colors I thought complimented the both of us. [ like browns, golds, reds, blues, and things of that nature. ] But I do look forward to see the sorts that you're going to purchase.

Oh! Oh!! Maybe we could get a little dragon and a little whale ornament. [ as soon as they reach the cabin childe freezes, because, uh, how the hell are they going to get it inside. ] ...I didn't think this part through.

[ Oh... ]

Perhaps we could fit it in through a window.

[ And aren't those easier to replace than doors? ]

But aren't the windows even smaller than the doors? We might have to take the door off its hinges and kind of... ease it in, and then put it back on. It's probably going to take some finagling, but we should be able to manage... eh heh. I can't believe I didn't think about this.

I will trust your expertise then. Shall I remove the door and you can attempt to shove in the tree?

[ "expertise". ] Ah h- hah, yeah, let's uhm... just see what happens. I'll try to be careful with the tree, but if you don't mind taking the door off, let's start with that.

[ Well, it's not too difficult to pull out the hinges with his Heart Weapon.

There you go, Childe, try to stuff the tree into the house ]

[ childe is going to take a moment to scope out the no door situation and then he's going to move the head of the tree towards the door and pull it inside. as soon as he gets a third of the way down he opens the window and hops through. ] Hey Zhongli... you want to help me press the branches in, so I can more easily slide it inside?

Of course.

[ As he moves into positions to flatten the branches. ]

Shall we do it on three?

One, two, ---

[ S H O V E ]

[ nods. ]

On three! and... three!

[ shove. ]

[ the tree is shoved inside, but not without shedding some of its pine needles. it's nothing major though, and childe grins proudly. ] We did it. Now let's get this big boy set up! I can take care of that if you'd like to get the decorations. I put them in that hall closet.

[ He tilts his head to the side thoughtfully as he starts picking pine needles out of Childe's tails. ]

Yes. Let me go fetch them.

[ And off he goes to get the various decorations that Childe has purchased ]

[ childe moves the tree into the living room and sets it up, a task much easier than the previous, so when zhongli returns he can find childe attempting to shake out the remaining pine needles that are stuck in his tail. ]

Did you find them, Xiansheng? Do you think we need more?

I did.

[ And he comes back to press a kiss to Childe's cheek, arms full of ornament boxes. He might have a slightly mischievous look in his eye. ]

Now if I recall correctly, you promised my a cup of hot cocoa to ward off the cold.

...ah! right right. [ he smiles at the kiss and leaves the tree to zhongli as he heads into the kitchen. he's going to be making homemade hot chocolate, so it'll take a bit longer, but it'll be that much better. ] Do you think I should add some booze into the mix? Not too much~ but it'll spice it up for sure.

Yes. Do add whatever spirits you like.

[ Calls Zhongli from the other room as if he wants to keep Childe out of the living room for as long as he needs to finish whatever he's doing. ]

[ SUS! ]

[ childe continues making the hot chocolate, deciding to add a splash of amaretto to the both of them. he considered something minty... but this seemed more subdued and if they're going to eat at any point he doesn't want mint mouth. he takes the both of them and heads out into the living room. ]

What are you doing out here, Xiansheng? I got your hot chocolate.

[ A palm presses over his eyes. Careful with those drinks now! ]

I am not quite finished. Will you keep your eyes closed for me?

...oh, ah, sure! [ he just stands there holding them. ] Do you want to set them down somewhere? Or... should I keep holding them?

[ With a hand at the small of Childe's back, Zhongli gently leads him to the couch and helps him sit down. ]

Please make yourself comfortable.

[ childe takes a seat with zhongli's help, scooting to the edge of the seat, so he can feel around for the table and set their drinks down. ] How much longer, Xiansheng?

Not much longer.

[ And true to his word, there is only a minute or two more of branch rustling before he comes back to press a kiss to Childe's forehead before settling next to him on the couch for snuggling. ]

You can open your eyes now.

...alright. [ he smiles, setting his hands on his knees and drumming as he... well, stares at the backs of his eyelids. as soon as he feels the couch sink in and zhongli settle in beside him he shifts, turning toward him and looping an arm around his middle. he opens his eyes and, first, looks at him, giving him a quick kiss, and then he turns his attention on the tree. ]

[ To the best of his ability, Zhongli has taken the gold and brown ornaments to write the word good fortune in Liyuen. The blue and silver ones read happiness in Snezhnayan. With all of the other ornaments tastefully organized to highlight the two scripts.

He picks up his cup of spiked cocoa to warm his still chilled hands. ]

Happy Krsnik Noc, Ajax.

[ childe blinks in sheer amazement and wonder at the beautifully decorated tree sitting in his living room. he gets up off the couch to walk a circle around it, smiling as he notices what zhongli's written on some of the ornaments. ] Zhongli Xiansheng... [ as he gets back around to the front he reclaims his seat, winding his arms around him and squeezing tightly. ] Happy Krsnik Noc Zhongli. I love you so much.

I love you, too.

[ And now he picks up Childe's drink ]

Now drink this before it gets unpleasantly lukewarm.

[ childe takes his drink and clinks it against zhongli's. ] I made sure not to put too much booze in it, despite the temptation. [ because a drunk zhongli is a cute zhongli. ] Enjoy, Xiansheng. [ and he takes a sip of his own cocoa. ]

[ In between sips: ]

Oh? Why not?

I thought we were celebrating.

Oh, are you saying you want to get a little tipsy?

If it means seeing you smile like that.

[ And he reaches over to caress Childe's cheek with the back of his hand. ]

Then, yes. That's what I want.

How about we play a little drinking game then? [ he takes zhongli's hand and gives it a kiss. ]

[ He squeezes Childe's hand, appreciative of the physical affection as he ever is. ]

Mmmm. I'm listening.

Let's play truth or dare.

Truth or dare...? Are you sure?

It could be fun... although I guess we wouldn't get that drunk, since there's not much I wouldn't tell or do for you. We could play cards. Ever play war?

You can play war...?

[ Wait, that is beside the point. ]

How about we drink this cocoa and then I prepare the next drink?

Iiiit's not as exciting as it sounds...

But, alright, fine. I'm interested to see what you put together. [ he hastily goes to drink his cocoa before forgetting it's fucken hot. whelp. he burnt his tongue. ]

[ Childe...

Zhongli takes his hand, smoothing over the back of his knuckles affectionately. ]

What if I suggest a different game?

[ childe laughs a little nervously. ] H- Ha, thanks Zhongli Xiansheng. And, oh, what kind of game?

Something like truth or dare, but more emphasis on learning about each other than trying to push each others limits. Have you ever played two truths and a lie.

[ shakes his head. ] No, [ but he likes pushing himself ( and others ) to their limits!!! ] but I wouldn't mind getting to learn a little bit more about you, Xiansheng. Let's give it a try.

Very well, I will start. Three statements and only two are truthful. If you guess incorrectly, then you take a drink.

[ But he thumbs at Childe's cheek ]

Without burning your mouth.

[ he captures zhongli's wrist and gives his thumb a lick. ] I'll see if I can manage, Xiansheng. [ he releass his hand. ] You go first.

My very first friendship as a mortal was with the most unexpected of characters. His passion which was borderline reckless taught me how to live my own life to the fullest.

I chose to ascend to the role of Geo Archon in order to better protect the people of Liyue.

Talking long car rides with loved ones here is almost comparable to talking long walks with them as I did back in Teyvat.

... [ but all of those sounds true. nevertheless the first one has him smiling. ] I'm going to have to guess... the second one.

Correct. Does that mean I have to drink?

[ Well, he's going to anyway. Carefully so as to not burn himself ]

While I did fight for the people in Liyue in that regard, I was not expecting to be the one to take the position of the Geo Archon. I suppose you could say I was best suited at the end - with those who would be better equipped for it fell during the war.

...ah, su- [ oh, he's drinking. childe smiles and leans into him. ] Really? I don't think I could see anybody else as the Geo Archon. [ but, then again, childe doesn't know much of the liyue lore. ] ...ah. [ he's sure there might have been other candidates, but zhongli did a great job with liyue, and he's not sure anybody else could have been as good as the god of contracts, but perhaps he's just biased. ]

Of course. It's because that is the only reality we know. But as is evident by this place, there are endless possibilities out there.

[ He takes another sip again, because why not, before setting his drink aside. ]

Was that a satisfactory lie?

Or would you perhaps want something a little more related to you?

...yeah, that's... true. It's kind of weird to think that there are all of these other possibilities out there. Like, [ he pauses for a moment, almost hesitating before he goes on. ] maybe there's one where I didn't fall into the abyss. [ and never became a harbinger and, thus, never went to liyue to meet zhongli. ] Everything could be so different...

Zhongli Xiansheng. [ he turns, setting a hand on his shoulder to give his cheek a kiss. ] It was fine. Not all of the truths and lies have to be related to me... unless you'd like to spoil me some more.

I want to spoil you always. Especially since you've been having a difficult time lately.

...mm, I know I'm not the only one though. It's not like things have been a walk in the park for you, Zhongli.

[ He tilts his head to the side, looking genuinely confused ]

How so?

...even if the bad shit happens to me it still affects you. Having to pick up the pieces and just deal with all the fallout isn't always a walk in the park. There are no real winners here.

Perhaps.

But caring for a few people that I hold dear is still much less stressful than looking after the well-being of a nation.

I... yeah, I guess that's true. But, but still... [ he gives a sigh. ] Just as long as you let me spoil you now and again I guess it's fine. [ he leans over and gives him a kiss. ]

Do you think you do not spoil me enough?

I don't think I could ever spoil you enough, Xiansheng. Making you smile makes me smile - so it's win win!

[ Zhongli receives a location ping and nothing else, no context or explanation ]

[ Well considering all the bullshit that happens in Imeeji all the time, Zhongli will arrive at the location ping as soon as he is able with his aibou at the ready and in full henshin armor. ]

Ba--- Venti.

[ Zhongli finds himself in one of the more remote parks at the fringes of the city. Beneath a large tree, Venti and a certain adeptus sit at a table that appears to have been recently dragged there for this very purpose. An unopened bottle of osmanthus wine sits between them.

Grinning, innocently. ]

Hey, old man. Care for a drink?

Much too long it has been, old friend.

[ Welp. That is a big enough surprise that it literally shocks the henshin right out of him. ]

Ah.

[ Is this an ambush? It feels like some sort of ambush.

Eloquently (as is not at all): ]

How did you procure such a table?

[ That thing is ancient and out of style by even Liyue standards ]

[ Looking a little smug for a moment at shocking him right out of his battle armor ]

Ehehe, much the same way you procured me the Holy Lyre der Himmel, I expect.

[ Gesturing to the empty seat saved for him ]

[hang on, what?]

The Holy Lyre der Himmel? Here?

One had not heard about this. How has this not come up in conversation prior to this moment?

[i guess this is what happens when you never shut up long enough to listen to others]

It's not exactly a riveting tale.

[ Taking a seat. The one with his name engraved on it yanno ]

On occasion, the Production will award idols with a special sort of currency. This currency then can be used to purchase specific items from our home worlds instead of the more generic products that can be obtained through the shop.

I came across a few of these coins a while back and used them to purchase the Lyre. Though unfortunately, it does not retain any of its blessed properties.

Ah . . . ehe, it's not exactly fit to be played anymore, either . . .

But remind me to serenade you with a different instrument sometime! That goes for both of you.

As you well know, one is always of a mind for a melody. Especially should it be from strummed from the fingers of the finest bard the world has ever known. This much, at least, has never changed.

Though...this does seem to be an opportune occasion for some music, is it not? What is a celebration without joyous expression from the heart?

Ah yes. A most excellent suggestion.

I will start preparing the tea in the meantime.

[ Zhongli.

There's wine on the table. ]

Oh, praise me more! I do have my regular lyre with me, of course. ♪

[ Grabbing the wine bottle and uncorking it with practiced ease ]

But first, we must get wine into him before he gets any ideas about toiling on his birthday~

Naturally! Though one always delights in tea prepared by such a master hand as yourself, dear Rex, today it is our honor to dote on you a bit instead - to celebrate the long life of a friend dear beyond words!

[ Birthday...? ]

Is it that time of the year already? I suppose we are fairly deep into the various winter festivities.

And I do not toil.

[ He's just want things done a very specific and very certain way. ]

Even on a day such as today, it would not be fair to leave everything up to others. Do the fine people of Mondstadt not go to great lengths to procure and present their own Windblume?

[ Smiles a butter-wouldn't-melt-in-his-mouth smile ]

Only single people are required to take matters into their own hands during Windblume.

[ Pouring out three cups of wine and sliiiiiding them across the table accordingly ]

Imeeji Inbox

Day 419, late.

Sorry the notif on this got lost

Re: Sorry the notif on this got lost

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Day 418, after Monster Bingo

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