Zhongli - Vago Mundo (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
leaveofabsence) wrote in ![[community profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/community.png)
hydrangeabloom2023-04-10 07:51 pm
leaveofabsence) wrote in hydrangeabloom2023-04-10 07:51 pm
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[ Chili one-shots ]
[ Childe seems extremely happy, pressing into those nails even as a Zhongli works his magic overall. With an endearing smile, the harbinger leans forward to wrap his arms around Zhongli's shoulders to pull him into a bit of a side lean as Childe chuckles. Without thinking (or so it seem, anyway) he'll go to brush his lips playfully against Zhongli's own, this time his words breathing out hot and seductively against beautiful unchapped lips. ]
Spoil me a little more and I'll let you do whatever you wish~.
Spoil me a little more and I'll let you do whatever you wish~.
[ Zhongli could answer. He could make many promises or do a number of things, all of which would fall under the umbrella of spoiling Childe since Childe rarely pampered himself. But the best reactions he had received thus far had always been through actions and not words. Perhaps it was selfish and perhaps it was over-indulgent, but as long as Zhongli was being rewarded for taking initiative then continue to take the initiative he would.
So he does not answer, instead choosing to lean forward to press his lips against Childe's with more intent than the fleeting brush that preceded it. In fact, (though it is still formal and proper and not even using a hint of tongue) it just might be what Zhongli would consider their first kiss.
Zhongli pulls back after a few moments, lingering so that Childe would not mistake his meaning, and with a teasing lilt to his expression. ]
If what I wish is what you wish for as well, then I have no need to bargain for what you will readily accept.
So he does not answer, instead choosing to lean forward to press his lips against Childe's with more intent than the fleeting brush that preceded it. In fact, (though it is still formal and proper and not even using a hint of tongue) it just might be what Zhongli would consider their first kiss.
Zhongli pulls back after a few moments, lingering so that Childe would not mistake his meaning, and with a teasing lilt to his expression. ]
If what I wish is what you wish for as well, then I have no need to bargain for what you will readily accept.
[ Oh, this—
This is not what Childe expected, but to say he didn't like it would be dishonest. Even so, the very idea of Zhongli kissing him willingly, nevermind initiating it is so far beyond his mental scope that he seems to stop functioning a moment. Even so, there is the fleeting shyness of moving his mouth against Zhongli's in return before the other pulls away. The harbinger's face is heated, looking surprised, but unlike in his younger days he knows exactly what he wants which means he does not stumble in response. Instead he huffs before chasing after Zhongli to press their mouths together firmly and without any extra hesitation. He'll pull Zhongli almost possessively close , and he certainly has no qualms about sending messages of his intentions, mistakenly so or not.
(The truth is whatever Zhongli reacts with so long as it's no reaction at all is not a mistake to Childe. It's as simple as that.) ]
This is not what Childe expected, but to say he didn't like it would be dishonest. Even so, the very idea of Zhongli kissing him willingly, nevermind initiating it is so far beyond his mental scope that he seems to stop functioning a moment. Even so, there is the fleeting shyness of moving his mouth against Zhongli's in return before the other pulls away. The harbinger's face is heated, looking surprised, but unlike in his younger days he knows exactly what he wants which means he does not stumble in response. Instead he huffs before chasing after Zhongli to press their mouths together firmly and without any extra hesitation. He'll pull Zhongli almost possessively close , and he certainly has no qualms about sending messages of his intentions, mistakenly so or not.
(The truth is whatever Zhongli reacts with so long as it's no reaction at all is not a mistake to Childe. It's as simple as that.) ]
Edited 2023-06-12 17:20 (UTC)
[ Zhongli is really being quite unfair if he were to stop and think about it. He had already disrupted the Harbinger's life by showing up here unannounced with some incurable ailment. He had already used up more than his fair share of Childe's generosity by being cared for and offering little compensation in return. Classic classic Zhongli to expect others to provide for him and his lavish lifestyle without a care for burdens placed upon their shoulders of as a result. Selfish. Selfish and unfair.
But Zhongli can't be bothered by those thoughts when Childe's lips press eagerly against his. Can't be bothered by trying to not impose even more on the other as he wraps his arms around Childe's shoulders and kisses back forcefully, savoring the taste of him. In this slightly awkward position of Childe still nestled in his lap, the two inevitably go tumbling to one side of the couch, the back of Zhongli's carefully pressed suit wrinkling Tonia's already crumpled outer wear. Ah, what a first impression to make (if this can be called a first impression since Tonia spoke of Zhongli as if she already knew him.)
Zhongli would not consider himself shy but he is definitely inexperienced in this (or really any) act of passion. Strange how he cannot remember being physically intimate with another - not even anything as scandalous as holding hands. He cannot even remember being attracted to anyone before Childe - his passionate carefree generous and feral "business partner". Surely he must have suspected he had grown feelings for the other before the Harbinger was forced to leave Liyue. But then why— why did he wait so long to act upon it. Wait until the communication had dried up for years before coming.
Zhongli doesn't know. Doesn't know even though the ache in the back of his mind warns him that this has something to do with his faded memories. Warns him that thinking on it too long or too hard will result in probably unfortunate consequences.
So maybe it's less that Zhongli does not know and more that Zhongli does not want to know. And that's all right by him. Why worry about such matters when it appears that Childe is eager to be a willing participant in what they both want?
So instead of worrying, Zhongli nips at the flesh of Childe's lower lip, arms tightening around him to pull him down down down until there is no space left between them.
(Let me stay with you. Let me find solace in your soul. I feel so incomplete without you.) ]
But Zhongli can't be bothered by those thoughts when Childe's lips press eagerly against his. Can't be bothered by trying to not impose even more on the other as he wraps his arms around Childe's shoulders and kisses back forcefully, savoring the taste of him. In this slightly awkward position of Childe still nestled in his lap, the two inevitably go tumbling to one side of the couch, the back of Zhongli's carefully pressed suit wrinkling Tonia's already crumpled outer wear. Ah, what a first impression to make (if this can be called a first impression since Tonia spoke of Zhongli as if she already knew him.)
Zhongli would not consider himself shy but he is definitely inexperienced in this (or really any) act of passion. Strange how he cannot remember being physically intimate with another - not even anything as scandalous as holding hands. He cannot even remember being attracted to anyone before Childe - his passionate carefree generous and feral "business partner". Surely he must have suspected he had grown feelings for the other before the Harbinger was forced to leave Liyue. But then why— why did he wait so long to act upon it. Wait until the communication had dried up for years before coming.
Zhongli doesn't know. Doesn't know even though the ache in the back of his mind warns him that this has something to do with his faded memories. Warns him that thinking on it too long or too hard will result in probably unfortunate consequences.
So maybe it's less that Zhongli does not know and more that Zhongli does not want to know. And that's all right by him. Why worry about such matters when it appears that Childe is eager to be a willing participant in what they both want?
So instead of worrying, Zhongli nips at the flesh of Childe's lower lip, arms tightening around him to pull him down down down until there is no space left between them.
(Let me stay with you. Let me find solace in your soul. I feel so incomplete without you.) ]
[ What is this...?
Childe knows he should pull back for so many reasons (did Zhongli really know if he wanted this? Is he simply indulging Childe's antics without much care of what it might mean? Is Childe really going to pursue openly making out in his damn office while his kid sister is somewhere around the vicinity??,) but the overwhelming desire and visceral need to have This (all of This) for even just a moment in time doesn't allow him to do anything of the sort.
When Zhongli pulls him down, he sinks further than simply closing the space between their bodies. Using one arm to press against the couch he holds some of his weight as to not simply dump it all upon Zhongli while his other hand digs into the couch cushion as he is consumed by the moment and the man beneath him.
(Never again, he promised himself. Never again with anyone. ...And yet, is this really "again" at all when it never ceased? He's wanted Zhongli for so fucking long how can anyone expect him to control himself being given a taste of it now?)
It doesn't seem to matter one bit how experienced or inexperienced the other is or otherwise seems, Tartaglia is more than willing to make up for it. The way his body shifts and adds just a hint of delicious friction, the way his lips become possessive in their passion (as he presses his tongue to lips and use it to gain access to that mouth he's wanted to ravage with his own since he laid eyes on it— )
Childe likes to think of himself as a sexually controlled individual. He has little need for it, willing to engage for the sake of business if absolutely needed, but very rarely did he have to seek out someone for a good fuck just to get it out of his system. But fuck if Zhongli didn't make him feel like he hasn't sex since they last saw each other, fuck if Zhongli doesn't bring out an insatiable sexual appetite... even if they never did anything like this before.
It's a good thing, then, that the back of the couch provides a bit of a shield should Tonia come back because it'll give Childe some precious seconds to disengage their activities. For now, though, anything to do with pulling back is the furthest from his mind. The's a part of him, too, that realizes this isn't simply him reacting to physical desire, either. Despite being turned in, he can't bring himself to make any progressive advances beyond kissing the other as if it's the only way he can possibly breathe. It's not perfect, he just wants to hold Zhongli, just be close to him— And no amount of insistence that he actually just wants sex is able to distract him from that.
( Stay. I want you to stay with me until there's nothing left of either of us. ) ]
Childe knows he should pull back for so many reasons (did Zhongli really know if he wanted this? Is he simply indulging Childe's antics without much care of what it might mean? Is Childe really going to pursue openly making out in his damn office while his kid sister is somewhere around the vicinity??,) but the overwhelming desire and visceral need to have This (all of This) for even just a moment in time doesn't allow him to do anything of the sort.
When Zhongli pulls him down, he sinks further than simply closing the space between their bodies. Using one arm to press against the couch he holds some of his weight as to not simply dump it all upon Zhongli while his other hand digs into the couch cushion as he is consumed by the moment and the man beneath him.
(Never again, he promised himself. Never again with anyone. ...And yet, is this really "again" at all when it never ceased? He's wanted Zhongli for so fucking long how can anyone expect him to control himself being given a taste of it now?)
It doesn't seem to matter one bit how experienced or inexperienced the other is or otherwise seems, Tartaglia is more than willing to make up for it. The way his body shifts and adds just a hint of delicious friction, the way his lips become possessive in their passion (as he presses his tongue to lips and use it to gain access to that mouth he's wanted to ravage with his own since he laid eyes on it— )
Childe likes to think of himself as a sexually controlled individual. He has little need for it, willing to engage for the sake of business if absolutely needed, but very rarely did he have to seek out someone for a good fuck just to get it out of his system. But fuck if Zhongli didn't make him feel like he hasn't sex since they last saw each other, fuck if Zhongli doesn't bring out an insatiable sexual appetite... even if they never did anything like this before.
It's a good thing, then, that the back of the couch provides a bit of a shield should Tonia come back because it'll give Childe some precious seconds to disengage their activities. For now, though, anything to do with pulling back is the furthest from his mind. The's a part of him, too, that realizes this isn't simply him reacting to physical desire, either. Despite being turned in, he can't bring himself to make any progressive advances beyond kissing the other as if it's the only way he can possibly breathe. It's not perfect, he just wants to hold Zhongli, just be close to him— And no amount of insistence that he actually just wants sex is able to distract him from that.
( Stay. I want you to stay with me until there's nothing left of either of us. ) ]
[ A vacation. What a strange word and concept for someone who had been vigilant over his nation for close to three millennia. Sure, he had delegated duties, rested, even hibernated on the rare occassion, but Morax had never left Liyue except for political reasons. Certainly never for pleasure.
Yet that is what Zhongli sorely needed as he stood forlornly at the edge of the pier of Liyue harbor, watching the water lap at the wooden posts. Perhaps he had listened to one too many retellings of Rex Lapis's deeds at Third-Round Knockout. Perhaps he missed the warm chatter and companionship of the Traveler and Paimon once they had left to their next destination. Perhaps he just needed a change of pace. Either way, he was restless. So very very restless. That is what humans did once they retired, didn't they? Vacation.
And thus, Zhongli found himself nestled between the towering dark trees and dazzling purple flowers of Inazuma. He poked at a sakura blossom curiously with one curled claw, the electricity tingling down his arm as the swirl of purple light bobbed in place. Beautiful. Breathtaking. And not at all what he was used to in Liyue.
Wandering father into the forest, Zhongli stops near an old abandoned shrine, the red of the wood faded to almost grey from neglect and the two stone fox statues overgrown with a thick tangle of vines and weeds. Just looking at the structure made Zhongli feel an ache of loneliness in his bones. He remembered the brave kitsune warrior who used to tend to this place more than five centuries ago, brash and vibrant and able to give the current miko of the Grand Narukami Shrine a witty barb that was hard to recover from. Did she really not survive the cataclysm that happen 500 years ago?
It takes some time, but Zhongli begins to diligently tidy up the shrine. The vines he can take care of with a quick hack and slash from his spear. But the exterior, well, surely he can procure the proper paint to breathe life back into this place his next visit. Appeased for the moment, he sits down near the shrine, long bronze tail coiling around his ankles as he unpacks the bento he brought with him on the trip.
It would be nice, of course, if he had another person to share it with (why had he brought two portions in the first place?). But being here, among old friends was enough to ease his spirit. So with a raised cup of sake which he places carefully on this lip of the shrine: ]
May your stories be passed down from generation to generation until the final chariot of the sun no longer brings light to the land of Teyvat.
Yet that is what Zhongli sorely needed as he stood forlornly at the edge of the pier of Liyue harbor, watching the water lap at the wooden posts. Perhaps he had listened to one too many retellings of Rex Lapis's deeds at Third-Round Knockout. Perhaps he missed the warm chatter and companionship of the Traveler and Paimon once they had left to their next destination. Perhaps he just needed a change of pace. Either way, he was restless. So very very restless. That is what humans did once they retired, didn't they? Vacation.
And thus, Zhongli found himself nestled between the towering dark trees and dazzling purple flowers of Inazuma. He poked at a sakura blossom curiously with one curled claw, the electricity tingling down his arm as the swirl of purple light bobbed in place. Beautiful. Breathtaking. And not at all what he was used to in Liyue.
Wandering father into the forest, Zhongli stops near an old abandoned shrine, the red of the wood faded to almost grey from neglect and the two stone fox statues overgrown with a thick tangle of vines and weeds. Just looking at the structure made Zhongli feel an ache of loneliness in his bones. He remembered the brave kitsune warrior who used to tend to this place more than five centuries ago, brash and vibrant and able to give the current miko of the Grand Narukami Shrine a witty barb that was hard to recover from. Did she really not survive the cataclysm that happen 500 years ago?
It takes some time, but Zhongli begins to diligently tidy up the shrine. The vines he can take care of with a quick hack and slash from his spear. But the exterior, well, surely he can procure the proper paint to breathe life back into this place his next visit. Appeased for the moment, he sits down near the shrine, long bronze tail coiling around his ankles as he unpacks the bento he brought with him on the trip.
It would be nice, of course, if he had another person to share it with (why had he brought two portions in the first place?). But being here, among old friends was enough to ease his spirit. So with a raised cup of sake which he places carefully on this lip of the shrine: ]
May your stories be passed down from generation to generation until the final chariot of the sun no longer brings light to the land of Teyvat.
[ It's pure curiosity that has him here more than anything, for the one that has been trending to the shrine is certainly no familiar youkai—or a youkai at all, it seems. What is the stranger, then?
Ajax has never seen a non native immortal of Inazuma before. Fox ears twitch forward in interest as the other speaks, it a new novelty considering the other has not done so since Ajax has set his eyes on the other. He had initially expected someone at the shrine to be tampering with something they should not, so of course it was with great surprise he watched the god take time to clean it up. ( There is a part of Ajax that feels he should be aware of whom this individual is, perhaps something I'm the melting pot of memories and emotions of the one that he's succeeded... but. Well, that would not be a good thing to reveal nevermind bother sorting it out. Afterall, is best that he is a simple kitsune with nothing else to it—he sees only trouble revealing his true purpose and how he came to exist.)
He continues to watch from somewhere in the forest, ever silent and his presence not untraceable, but it's also seeming to lack much of an identity, as if it's missing something that is vital to make it a unique individual's presence rather than an odd and vague collective.
Eventually, though, perhaps five minutes or so after Zhongli toasts to his old friend will Ajax come to peek around one of the now cleaned fox statues towards the other. ( And even before he peeks, the tip of his ears might give him away as they are very animated on top of rich color.)
His mask currently covers his face, but there seems to be a lack of anything to suggest he may be a threat to Zhongli, at current. Behind him, his tails sway about as if to also peek out from behind the fox statue— perhaps they, too, could get a better look at the new comer.
Zhongli will have zero issue recognizing he is a young nine-tails, which certainly makes the overwhelming curiosity quite typical by default.
His voice is friendly when he speaks up, innocently inquisitive although not seeming willing to approach without being given permission. ]
Hello. Are you lost...?
[ Why else would a powerful immortal that is not native to Inazuma be here ? Was he planning to tidy up another shrine? Maybe he got mixed up or something?? ]
Ajax has never seen a non native immortal of Inazuma before. Fox ears twitch forward in interest as the other speaks, it a new novelty considering the other has not done so since Ajax has set his eyes on the other. He had initially expected someone at the shrine to be tampering with something they should not, so of course it was with great surprise he watched the god take time to clean it up. ( There is a part of Ajax that feels he should be aware of whom this individual is, perhaps something I'm the melting pot of memories and emotions of the one that he's succeeded... but. Well, that would not be a good thing to reveal nevermind bother sorting it out. Afterall, is best that he is a simple kitsune with nothing else to it—he sees only trouble revealing his true purpose and how he came to exist.)
He continues to watch from somewhere in the forest, ever silent and his presence not untraceable, but it's also seeming to lack much of an identity, as if it's missing something that is vital to make it a unique individual's presence rather than an odd and vague collective.
Eventually, though, perhaps five minutes or so after Zhongli toasts to his old friend will Ajax come to peek around one of the now cleaned fox statues towards the other. ( And even before he peeks, the tip of his ears might give him away as they are very animated on top of rich color.)
His mask currently covers his face, but there seems to be a lack of anything to suggest he may be a threat to Zhongli, at current. Behind him, his tails sway about as if to also peek out from behind the fox statue— perhaps they, too, could get a better look at the new comer.
Zhongli will have zero issue recognizing he is a young nine-tails, which certainly makes the overwhelming curiosity quite typical by default.
His voice is friendly when he speaks up, innocently inquisitive although not seeming willing to approach without being given permission. ]
Hello. Are you lost...?
[ Why else would a powerful immortal that is not native to Inazuma be here ? Was he planning to tidy up another shrine? Maybe he got mixed up or something?? ]
[ Zhongli looks up from his half-unwrapped lacquered bento box, a little bit sheepish that he had be caught unaware by the— ah, the young kitsune appeared to another fox youkai. And one of some power with the number of tails fanning out behind him. Strange. He could not recall the last time he met a nine-tailed orange fox. Typically those of such color were had three of five tails. Was this shrine part of his territory? Had Zhongli intruded on a place that he should not? Both were very real possibilities. Zhongli knowledge of Inazuma customs was over five centuries old. He hadn't even met the newest youkai kits born to replace the old guard. ]
No. I am not lost. I am where I intended to be, but it seems this place has greatly changed since the last time I was here.
[ With his hands still hovering awkwardly over his lap and not seemingly in a hurry to move anytime soon. The light of the fading sun catches the tips of golden antlers as he tilts his head curiously to one side: ]
Am I intruding?
[ Zhongli's tail stays curled around him in a non-threatening gesture. The young youkai did not seem interested in an altercation, but even if he was, Zhongli was confident that it would be something that he could handle. One small benefit from being the oldest Archon in Teyvat (even retired). ]
No. I am not lost. I am where I intended to be, but it seems this place has greatly changed since the last time I was here.
[ With his hands still hovering awkwardly over his lap and not seemingly in a hurry to move anytime soon. The light of the fading sun catches the tips of golden antlers as he tilts his head curiously to one side: ]
Am I intruding?
[ Zhongli's tail stays curled around him in a non-threatening gesture. The young youkai did not seem interested in an altercation, but even if he was, Zhongli was confident that it would be something that he could handle. One small benefit from being the oldest Archon in Teyvat (even retired). ]
[ ( he's very sad about not being a white nine-tails, actually, and still hopes he will turn white someday. )
Ajax cants his head as if in mimic to Zhongli's when he asks the question, but maybe it's just him following the glint of the antlers adorning on the stranger. Kitsune do have a reputation for liking shiny things, and this one certainly fits the stereotype. ]
No, it's just almost no one comes around here anymore, not even other youkai. You know this shrine, then?
[ it's been a long time since anyone or anything knew much about this shrine. He squints a little. Something about this individual is similar to something he has felt in Inazuma, at least a part of him, anyway. He's not sure what it is, though. Finally, he asks another question, knowing it is not good to stereotype by looks but — ]
Are you from Liyue...? [ he's never met anyone from Liyue, but he knows they have a very distinct look to them as a country. They also have powerful spirits not unlike youkai, if he remembers correctly. It's a miracle he remembers that much. ]
Ajax cants his head as if in mimic to Zhongli's when he asks the question, but maybe it's just him following the glint of the antlers adorning on the stranger. Kitsune do have a reputation for liking shiny things, and this one certainly fits the stereotype. ]
No, it's just almost no one comes around here anymore, not even other youkai. You know this shrine, then?
[ it's been a long time since anyone or anything knew much about this shrine. He squints a little. Something about this individual is similar to something he has felt in Inazuma, at least a part of him, anyway. He's not sure what it is, though. Finally, he asks another question, knowing it is not good to stereotype by looks but — ]
Are you from Liyue...? [ he's never met anyone from Liyue, but he knows they have a very distinct look to them as a country. They also have powerful spirits not unlike youkai, if he remembers correctly. It's a miracle he remembers that much. ]
I am. To both of your questions.
[ And Zhongli cants his head in response to the fox's, a little smile gracing his lips as he mirrors the other.
Amazing. Simply amazing. Even in his adeptal form, the young youkai doesn't know who he is. Doesn't see him as anything more than a curiosity. It's comforting in a way that masquerading as a normal human is not— the joy of being oneself without all the history and baggage attached. ]
It seems you know this shrine as well, and probably its more recent history as I have not had a chance to visit in well over five centuries.
[ Delicately, Zhongli picks at his brown and gold robes (so very different for the purples and blues and pinks of Inazuma), patting the ground next to him in what he hopes is an inviting gesture. ]
Would you like to join me for a while?
[ As extra incentive, Zhongli carefully lifts the lid of the prepared bento, two beautifully prepared inari sushi nestled right at the top. Perhaps its a little too forward to tempt a fox with their favorite treat, but food was always best shared in the company of others. And Zhongli had regrettably spent the first few days in Inazuma with only his own company to keep. ]
[ And Zhongli cants his head in response to the fox's, a little smile gracing his lips as he mirrors the other.
Amazing. Simply amazing. Even in his adeptal form, the young youkai doesn't know who he is. Doesn't see him as anything more than a curiosity. It's comforting in a way that masquerading as a normal human is not— the joy of being oneself without all the history and baggage attached. ]
It seems you know this shrine as well, and probably its more recent history as I have not had a chance to visit in well over five centuries.
[ Delicately, Zhongli picks at his brown and gold robes (so very different for the purples and blues and pinks of Inazuma), patting the ground next to him in what he hopes is an inviting gesture. ]
Would you like to join me for a while?
[ As extra incentive, Zhongli carefully lifts the lid of the prepared bento, two beautifully prepared inari sushi nestled right at the top. Perhaps its a little too forward to tempt a fox with their favorite treat, but food was always best shared in the company of others. And Zhongli had regrettably spent the first few days in Inazuma with only his own company to keep. ]
!
[ The fox attempts to look skeptical and uninterested in the food, but his ears and tails betray him soundly as they all momentarily go straight up and rigid in honed hyper-focus mode before relaxing.
Ah! Where did he get those?! Had he come here looking for a kitsune to share a meal with because he knew this shrine? Maybe he was hoping one of the old guard was still around? Surely he could not have foreseen otherwise...!
—Oh?! Or what if it is also this Adeptus's (that's what they're called he's pretty sure) favorite food?! Could it be...
Puffing his cheeks out, Ajax'll come to slide around the pillar—first disappearing behind it again only to emerge on the other side now with his mask in his hands, as if the act of taking it off in front of someone else is strictly forbidden. ]
...Hm! Only... because you asked nicely.
[ he doesn't sound nervous, but he does seem a little flustered. He must not appear to be easy to lead into temptations...!
Or... maybe just for a few seconds it doesn't matter. He hasn't had Inari Sushi in so long, wow wow—!
The youkai will come to kneel down and take a seat with Zhongli, pausing a moment before readjusting himself to scoot closer for more intimacy. Afterall, the other must want a companion to dine with right? Not a freeloader that takes food and runs off with it. ]
...Oh, thank you for the meal. [ there, all better. He's being well mannered now, right? Yes? Good !]
[ The fox attempts to look skeptical and uninterested in the food, but his ears and tails betray him soundly as they all momentarily go straight up and rigid in honed hyper-focus mode before relaxing.
Ah! Where did he get those?! Had he come here looking for a kitsune to share a meal with because he knew this shrine? Maybe he was hoping one of the old guard was still around? Surely he could not have foreseen otherwise...!
—Oh?! Or what if it is also this Adeptus's (that's what they're called he's pretty sure) favorite food?! Could it be...
Puffing his cheeks out, Ajax'll come to slide around the pillar—first disappearing behind it again only to emerge on the other side now with his mask in his hands, as if the act of taking it off in front of someone else is strictly forbidden. ]
...Hm! Only... because you asked nicely.
[ he doesn't sound nervous, but he does seem a little flustered. He must not appear to be easy to lead into temptations...!
Or... maybe just for a few seconds it doesn't matter. He hasn't had Inari Sushi in so long, wow wow—!
The youkai will come to kneel down and take a seat with Zhongli, pausing a moment before readjusting himself to scoot closer for more intimacy. Afterall, the other must want a companion to dine with right? Not a freeloader that takes food and runs off with it. ]
...Oh, thank you for the meal. [ there, all better. He's being well mannered now, right? Yes? Good !]
[ It is true that Zhongli had been hoping to meet a kitsune while he was here. Not the previous caretaker of this shrine, of course, as they had been gone for a long while now, but perhaps one of their descendants or the next generation of caretakers. Upon initially seeing the poor state of the shrine, Zhongli had to swallow down some of his disappointment and consider whether or not it would be acceptable to leave portions of his meal as an offering.
But now that this young kitsune had appeared—
He chuckles softly as the food catches the fox's attention, all nine tails swaying in unison. A very young kitsune then, to still be mastering control of his tails. Or perhaps one that did not interact much with mortals. ]
You are too kind.
[ Zhongli smooths out his robes while the fox steps back for a moment, bringing out the second pair of chopsticks he had packed for such an occasion. Once the youkai is comfortably settled, he holds them out flat to the young fox in the palm of both of his hands. ]
And you are very welcome. Thank you for taking the time to share this meal with me. It would have been rather disappointing to not meet anyone while I was visiting.
But now that this young kitsune had appeared—
He chuckles softly as the food catches the fox's attention, all nine tails swaying in unison. A very young kitsune then, to still be mastering control of his tails. Or perhaps one that did not interact much with mortals. ]
You are too kind.
[ Zhongli smooths out his robes while the fox steps back for a moment, bringing out the second pair of chopsticks he had packed for such an occasion. Once the youkai is comfortably settled, he holds them out flat to the young fox in the palm of both of his hands. ]
And you are very welcome. Thank you for taking the time to share this meal with me. It would have been rather disappointing to not meet anyone while I was visiting.
[ both is the answer.
Ajax blinks at the chopsticks offered, starting at them somewhat begrudgingly. it's not that he doesn't know how to eat like the Inazuman mortals and certain youkai, it's just—
— okay yeah it's been a while since he's eaten with anyone else, be nevermind human food that would call for them. Still, Ajax will not make the Adeptus have his arm tire so he takes them and quietly fumbles with them as he tries to remember how to hold them. Good thing he can't actually starve or this could end up a real crisis event.
once he thinks he can remember he will close the chopsticks against each other and make a small display of gratitude towards the meal. He will then roll the sticks about his fingers and knuckles to hold them in place and slowly begin to psyche himself up silently to make the first move on the meal. In the meantime, he feels a need to speak— that is, at least until he can put food into his mouth and be silent without excuse. ]
Visiting? Like... A vacation? You sure picked an interesting time to come to Inazuma for any reason, let alone that.
Ajax blinks at the chopsticks offered, starting at them somewhat begrudgingly. it's not that he doesn't know how to eat like the Inazuman mortals and certain youkai, it's just—
— okay yeah it's been a while since he's eaten with anyone else, be nevermind human food that would call for them. Still, Ajax will not make the Adeptus have his arm tire so he takes them and quietly fumbles with them as he tries to remember how to hold them. Good thing he can't actually starve or this could end up a real crisis event.
once he thinks he can remember he will close the chopsticks against each other and make a small display of gratitude towards the meal. He will then roll the sticks about his fingers and knuckles to hold them in place and slowly begin to psyche himself up silently to make the first move on the meal. In the meantime, he feels a need to speak— that is, at least until he can put food into his mouth and be silent without excuse. ]
Visiting? Like... A vacation? You sure picked an interesting time to come to Inazuma for any reason, let alone that.
[ Next, Zhongli holds out the bento in his hands, lid fully removed so that his new companion may pick his preferred piece of sushi. His mouth opens and closes much like a fish multiple times as he watches the other handle the chopsticks, soft correction threatening to overflow multiple times. But this was a youkai of Inazuma. Surely, he knows such basic human things like how to use chopsticks.
(Right?
Ah. Perhaps this young youkai did not interact with humans much at all. Strange, then, that he would approach Zhongli with little if any hesitation.) ]
An interesting time...? What makes you say that?
[ Zhongli knows that Inazuma is currently under lockdown thanks to the Vision degree and that foreigners are not allowed in and out of Inazuma. But he knows that like how he knows that poverty is a thing that can happen. To other people. A concept rather than a reality.
After all, there was no one to check his documents and deny arrival for a dragon who just landed wherever he wanted on Narukami Island. Perhaps if he had taken a boat, but ah, then he would have had to negotiate with Captain Beidou about passage and she had already left sometime before with the Traveler. No, that route would have taken much too long. Yes, he way of arriving here was much more expedient and efficient. ]
(Right?
Ah. Perhaps this young youkai did not interact with humans much at all. Strange, then, that he would approach Zhongli with little if any hesitation.) ]
An interesting time...? What makes you say that?
[ Zhongli knows that Inazuma is currently under lockdown thanks to the Vision degree and that foreigners are not allowed in and out of Inazuma. But he knows that like how he knows that poverty is a thing that can happen. To other people. A concept rather than a reality.
After all, there was no one to check his documents and deny arrival for a dragon who just landed wherever he wanted on Narukami Island. Perhaps if he had taken a boat, but ah, then he would have had to negotiate with Captain Beidou about passage and she had already left sometime before with the Traveler. No, that route would have taken much too long. Yes, he way of arriving here was much more expedient and efficient. ]
[ Ajax stares at the sushi options like it really matters which one he picks. ]
Well, as you can see, this shrine is long abandoned more or less, and Inazuma currently is very difficult for anyone to navigate outside of the immediate settlement areas that humans stay. [ tails sway in an almost fuss of indecision about which choice to make before the fox finally takes one... very very slowly. (It would be really bad if he dropped this after picking it up and being offered it, so...)
The chopsticks hover above the one he wants for a moment before they slowly close about the sides of the sushi as he continues. ]
Humans don't come here any longer unless they are lost... and they are usually more than simply lost in the forest by then. Losing their vision and aimlessly seeking what drive then to live with such vigor once is one type. The other... well there are no shortages of trees in a forest to use with rope, I guess. [ Finally he pulls the sushi out of the bento, staring very intensively at it as of to intimidate it into not daring to slip from his chopsticks. ]
I sense a lot of bad energy lately, too, that I can't seem to identify the location of despite it feeling like it's almost already everywhere. ...Maybe it's just my imagination, though. ]
Well, as you can see, this shrine is long abandoned more or less, and Inazuma currently is very difficult for anyone to navigate outside of the immediate settlement areas that humans stay. [ tails sway in an almost fuss of indecision about which choice to make before the fox finally takes one... very very slowly. (It would be really bad if he dropped this after picking it up and being offered it, so...)
The chopsticks hover above the one he wants for a moment before they slowly close about the sides of the sushi as he continues. ]
Humans don't come here any longer unless they are lost... and they are usually more than simply lost in the forest by then. Losing their vision and aimlessly seeking what drive then to live with such vigor once is one type. The other... well there are no shortages of trees in a forest to use with rope, I guess. [ Finally he pulls the sushi out of the bento, staring very intensively at it as of to intimidate it into not daring to slip from his chopsticks. ]
I sense a lot of bad energy lately, too, that I can't seem to identify the location of despite it feeling like it's almost already everywhere. ...Maybe it's just my imagination, though. ]
[ It does not matter which one he picks because ultimately Zhongli will offer both to the fox— not that he needs to know that at the moment. It seemed only fair since that is the offering he had used to coax the fox's company. Glancing at the way the youkai is so very gingerly holding the chopsticks, Zhongli hums thoughtfully before picking up another piece of the bento deftly between his own. ]
I did not know that the land was in such dire straits nor that you had to face such hardships as a result. The last time I was here, both cultures were highly integrated with each other with large boisterous festivals where the two would intermingle.
[ It was telling that is was so quiet even in a distant shrine as this in the summer months. Surely Zhongli should have encountered some festival goers or gathering on his way here. But it seems like there were only patrols of the Shogun troops and a handful of mortals who had wished to remain unseen. Zhongli had originally thought them to be of the opposing forces, but perhaps their was something even more tragic at work here. ]
I had heard that the Raiden Shogun's isolationist policy was causing some difficulties for the people, but not to this extent.
[ Zhongli stays quiet for many moments after that, deep in thought. Were this Liyue, were he a few months younger, he would certainly have meddled in such political affairs considering the injustice of it all. But after the calamity of 500 years ago and him setting down his own mantle, he had little interest in dealing with Beezlebub or the grief that she could not seem to manage.
Perhaps that was a bit heartless of him to admit that even to himself, considering his own struggles with loss. Yes. He was not interested in becoming entangled in political affairs where his true identity might come to light. But perhaps... perhaps he could help in smaller, less noticeable ways. ]
Can you tell me more of this bad energy? Is it causing you harm?
I did not know that the land was in such dire straits nor that you had to face such hardships as a result. The last time I was here, both cultures were highly integrated with each other with large boisterous festivals where the two would intermingle.
[ It was telling that is was so quiet even in a distant shrine as this in the summer months. Surely Zhongli should have encountered some festival goers or gathering on his way here. But it seems like there were only patrols of the Shogun troops and a handful of mortals who had wished to remain unseen. Zhongli had originally thought them to be of the opposing forces, but perhaps their was something even more tragic at work here. ]
I had heard that the Raiden Shogun's isolationist policy was causing some difficulties for the people, but not to this extent.
[ Zhongli stays quiet for many moments after that, deep in thought. Were this Liyue, were he a few months younger, he would certainly have meddled in such political affairs considering the injustice of it all. But after the calamity of 500 years ago and him setting down his own mantle, he had little interest in dealing with Beezlebub or the grief that she could not seem to manage.
Perhaps that was a bit heartless of him to admit that even to himself, considering his own struggles with loss. Yes. He was not interested in becoming entangled in political affairs where his true identity might come to light. But perhaps... perhaps he could help in smaller, less noticeable ways. ]
Can you tell me more of this bad energy? Is it causing you harm?
[ Despite being a fox... Despite being a kitsune with his favorite food in his possession he seems to lose some enthusiasm when asked about the energy and if it's causing harm to him. ] No, nothing like that.
[ His words are not hesitant, but his body language suggests...well, perhaps something is wrong, but it does not necessarily mean he's lying either. Perhaps he is just worried about the humans, although he doesn't seem particularly versed in interacting with them, either.
(It's just . . . well, it's not like it matters. It's not fixable, it's just what he is. He can't even claim it's hurting him— its not as if he would be better off without it even if others would be.) It's hard to nibble on sushi, so he doesn't, just starting at it as he waits to feel like he can put it into his mouth and enjoy it rather than eating it because he needs to. ) ]
A-anyway, I can try and explain more after the meal is you want— [ The fox perks up as if realizing something, and he does— it's bad to be like this when sharing a meal of all things. It ruins the appetite and the company. His ears lift and he goes to eat the sushi now, using it as much as excuse to stop talking as to focus on the treat. ]
Ahhh ha! Very nice! [ He beams and offers praise. ] Did you make them? Your fox friends back in Liyue must really be thankful for your.
[ His words are not hesitant, but his body language suggests...well, perhaps something is wrong, but it does not necessarily mean he's lying either. Perhaps he is just worried about the humans, although he doesn't seem particularly versed in interacting with them, either.
(It's just . . . well, it's not like it matters. It's not fixable, it's just what he is. He can't even claim it's hurting him— its not as if he would be better off without it even if others would be.) It's hard to nibble on sushi, so he doesn't, just starting at it as he waits to feel like he can put it into his mouth and enjoy it rather than eating it because he needs to. ) ]
A-anyway, I can try and explain more after the meal is you want— [ The fox perks up as if realizing something, and he does— it's bad to be like this when sharing a meal of all things. It ruins the appetite and the company. His ears lift and he goes to eat the sushi now, using it as much as excuse to stop talking as to focus on the treat. ]
Ahhh ha! Very nice! [ He beams and offers praise. ] Did you make them? Your fox friends back in Liyue must really be thankful for your.
Edited 2023-07-03 21:02 (UTC)
[ Ah, a question with a difficult answer. Well, Zhongli is not one to pry into people's personal affairs, especially that of strangers that he just met. If it is not hurting the fox, then he will leave it be for now and see if he can find some answer on his own. Which means both of them can return to simply enjoying the meal. ]
I did not. I purchased them from a well know vendor in Inazuma City, and I will be sure to pass on your compliments. While the ingredients are not uncommon in Liyue, it is not a dish that is made often. Nor do I have any fox friends back home who would appreciate it.
[ As for after the meal, well, what was Zhongli going to do after this shrine? He had a long list of places he wanted to visit, but it would probably end up the same as this location— alone and with no old friend to greet him.
This vacation and this retirement was not quite turning out to what he hoped it would be.
Perhaps, perhaps at least for some of the journey he could ask this fox to be his companion. ]
A lovely offer— to explain more about what is happening in Inazuma. However, of more interest to me is that I am in need of a local guide. Would you like to accompany me for a while?
I did not. I purchased them from a well know vendor in Inazuma City, and I will be sure to pass on your compliments. While the ingredients are not uncommon in Liyue, it is not a dish that is made often. Nor do I have any fox friends back home who would appreciate it.
[ As for after the meal, well, what was Zhongli going to do after this shrine? He had a long list of places he wanted to visit, but it would probably end up the same as this location— alone and with no old friend to greet him.
This vacation and this retirement was not quite turning out to what he hoped it would be.
Perhaps, perhaps at least for some of the journey he could ask this fox to be his companion. ]
A lovely offer— to explain more about what is happening in Inazuma. However, of more interest to me is that I am in need of a local guide. Would you like to accompany me for a while?
Oya? Me! [ the tails curl at the tips before sway again but in a cheerful way that matches his expression. ]
I can do that, as long as I don't have to guide you through human settlements. I don't know much about them at all, and I'm sure it's changed a lot in terms of what little I do, so I would be bad at that part.
[ maybe the fox is a bit lonely, too. He at least doesn't seem duty bound in one place. Canting his head now, he looks quite curious. ] you have been here before, though, haven't you? What can I help you with as a guide?
[ he doesn't seem suspicious; in fact he's mostly just wondering what he can do to be a good guide in this case! ]
I can do that, as long as I don't have to guide you through human settlements. I don't know much about them at all, and I'm sure it's changed a lot in terms of what little I do, so I would be bad at that part.
[ maybe the fox is a bit lonely, too. He at least doesn't seem duty bound in one place. Canting his head now, he looks quite curious. ] you have been here before, though, haven't you? What can I help you with as a guide?
[ he doesn't seem suspicious; in fact he's mostly just wondering what he can do to be a good guide in this case! ]
I find your terms agreeable. For the moment, I would rather not wander into the human cities as well. The villagers I met on my way here seemed tense and fearful. I do not think they would enjoy an outlander in their midst.
[ The fluff of his own tail swishes in response as Zhongli relaxes, pleased that he has found a companion for at least some of his journey. (Perhaps it's a bit selfish that he should find an youkai companion when he is supposed to be living as a mortal. Perhaps all of this is frivolous as he should not be indulging in his adeptal guise at all. And yet, Zhongli cannot bother to care at this moment in a land far away from Liyue and away from most eyes that would know him (and they would be busy with the civil war threatening to break out in Inazuma anyway). ]
I was here a long time ago. Over 500 years, but even then it was a strictly business trip so I was unable to see the breathtaking sites and vistas of Inazuma that are famous throughout Teyvat. Nor have I had a chance to see the newer wonders.
[ Zhongli pauses to pick up a morsel of bento with his chopsticks, thinking for a moment of where he would like to visit. ]
There is the mysterious beauty of this forest which made it a prime spot for youkai festivals. The beautiful pure waters of Watatsumi Island. And ah, yes, the Shogun slew a powerful snake on the island next over, did she not?
[ The fluff of his own tail swishes in response as Zhongli relaxes, pleased that he has found a companion for at least some of his journey. (Perhaps it's a bit selfish that he should find an youkai companion when he is supposed to be living as a mortal. Perhaps all of this is frivolous as he should not be indulging in his adeptal guise at all. And yet, Zhongli cannot bother to care at this moment in a land far away from Liyue and away from most eyes that would know him (and they would be busy with the civil war threatening to break out in Inazuma anyway). ]
I was here a long time ago. Over 500 years, but even then it was a strictly business trip so I was unable to see the breathtaking sites and vistas of Inazuma that are famous throughout Teyvat. Nor have I had a chance to see the newer wonders.
[ Zhongli pauses to pick up a morsel of bento with his chopsticks, thinking for a moment of where he would like to visit. ]
There is the mysterious beauty of this forest which made it a prime spot for youkai festivals. The beautiful pure waters of Watatsumi Island. And ah, yes, the Shogun slew a powerful snake on the island next over, did she not?
[ When Zhongli does finally pull back, a pink dusts across his cheeks as he dares to look shy and flustered (an expression that had never one crossed Morax's features). His teeth dig into his own lower lip. ]
You're very good at this. Practiced.
[ It is not a statement of jealousy but of simple fact that even Zhongli could tell that Childe was experienced. That he was holding back from escalating due to attempting to be patient or Zhongli's own inexperience (or something else entirely?). Impossible to tell.
But if Childe had taken lovers before, then why did he not have one now? Had they all been temporary flights of passion? Did his duties prevent him from having a serious relationship?
There were so many questions with no answers, ever growing like a yawning chasm that showed just how little Zhongli knew of Childe despite how long they had known each other. How little he had come to try to understand Childe even though they were living under the same roof.
A hand reaches up to card through his hair, fond and gentle. ]
Is this okay?
[ Fingertips drag over the shell of his ear. ]
Is this something that you want?
You're very good at this. Practiced.
[ It is not a statement of jealousy but of simple fact that even Zhongli could tell that Childe was experienced. That he was holding back from escalating due to attempting to be patient or Zhongli's own inexperience (or something else entirely?). Impossible to tell.
But if Childe had taken lovers before, then why did he not have one now? Had they all been temporary flights of passion? Did his duties prevent him from having a serious relationship?
There were so many questions with no answers, ever growing like a yawning chasm that showed just how little Zhongli knew of Childe despite how long they had known each other. How little he had come to try to understand Childe even though they were living under the same roof.
A hand reaches up to card through his hair, fond and gentle. ]
Is this okay?
[ Fingertips drag over the shell of his ear. ]
Is this something that you want?
[ Is it okay? He doesn't know how to answer that. If Zhongli were literally anyone else, he would say no, it's not okay. Even if it's Zhongli, he should say it's not okay, because he shouldn't be distracted from his loyalty to the Tsaritsa. Nevertheless, plenty of the others have all had it have relationships (Harbinger or any other tank in the Fatui) regardless, so why couldn't he indulge, too?
Is this something he wants? That's far easier to answer, especially with fingers moving through his hair in such a way. Life feels so unfair right now to dangle this in front of him only for his conscience to feel a need to wake up for once. lowering his gaze (because if he keeps looking at that adorable blush and expression, he won't be able to resist if he needs to,) Childe swallows before giving in a small nod. He doesn't really care if it's okay or not, in the end, but— ]
I do... but that's not good enough. You have to want it, too.
Is this something he wants? That's far easier to answer, especially with fingers moving through his hair in such a way. Life feels so unfair right now to dangle this in front of him only for his conscience to feel a need to wake up for once. lowering his gaze (because if he keeps looking at that adorable blush and expression, he won't be able to resist if he needs to,) Childe swallows before giving in a small nod. He doesn't really care if it's okay or not, in the end, but— ]
I do... but that's not good enough. You have to want it, too.
Then you do not have to worry. I have wanted this for a long time. Ever since those days where I stubbornly did not allow the presence of forks at my table and you stubbornly refused to lose to a pair of cheap-ass wooden sticks as I believe you called them.
[ That particular memory is a fond one, where Xiangling had gasped at his language, giggles hidden behind her hand as Chef Mao had rolled his eyes at their antics. And how Childe had left the restaurant with a steamed bun stuffed in his mouth as both proprietors made sure he didn't leave the establishment hungry. How bright and alive the world had been&mdash is when Childe was a part of it. ]
I thought again and again during those times how much I wanted to kiss you.
What a fool I was to not say anything before you left. To wait years before I came here in search of you.
[ Because why... why hadn't Zhongli said anything to Childe during those months in Liyue? Long long months where he let the opportunity slip through his fingers time and time again. How much time had Zhongli wasted with his silence even here in Snezhnaya— more lost months and more lost time.
No. No, today there would be an end to that. He would get his answer soon enough. ]
You have my apologies for being a coward.
[ Ah, if only Zhongli knew just how much of a coward he really was. And why he didn't say anything during Childe's time in Liyue... ]
[ That particular memory is a fond one, where Xiangling had gasped at his language, giggles hidden behind her hand as Chef Mao had rolled his eyes at their antics. And how Childe had left the restaurant with a steamed bun stuffed in his mouth as both proprietors made sure he didn't leave the establishment hungry. How bright and alive the world had been&mdash is when Childe was a part of it. ]
I thought again and again during those times how much I wanted to kiss you.
What a fool I was to not say anything before you left. To wait years before I came here in search of you.
[ Because why... why hadn't Zhongli said anything to Childe during those months in Liyue? Long long months where he let the opportunity slip through his fingers time and time again. How much time had Zhongli wasted with his silence even here in Snezhnaya— more lost months and more lost time.
No. No, today there would be an end to that. He would get his answer soon enough. ]
You have my apologies for being a coward.
[ Ah, if only Zhongli knew just how much of a coward he really was. And why he didn't say anything during Childe's time in Liyue... ]
[ Oh... something grips Childe's heart in his chest hearing this confession. If this is all true ... then... no. Zhongli back then would never have admitted to anything even if Childe had come forth. There's nothing he could have done to change the situation save perhaps coming back years later to trt again.
How could he have, though? The pain in his heart cuts deep even now just thinking back to it, and it's a struggle to accept this confession even if it's what he's wanted. There's no way he could have overcome his fear of rejection back then.
Is this something that never would have surfaced if Zhonglis memory wasn't suffering? He doesn't seem to remember anything to do with him being the geo-archon. If that's the thing that's making this possible, does that mean Childe is selfish to accept it? Can it even be considered real if Zhongli would never have given it, otherwise?
(But those circumstances were so long ago and the only one they kept living on in, apparently, was Childe himself.
...Maybe he should just let them go finally, too? )
Leaning forward, he gently touches his nose to Zhongli's, speaking with such adoration even if it's somewhat cautious. ]
I'm... also a coward. But... none of that has to matter, right? We can leave our mistakes in the past, stop chasing it for whatever is missing, and just go forward together, instead, from now on. If you're okay with building a future with me, that is.
[ if this is what Zhongli has really wanted ... Childe doesn't think it's possible to help Zhongli remember and still make him happy. Maybe Zhongli doesn't want to remember at all. Maybe he just doesn't know it himself due to the very nature of losing one's memories. ]
I want you to be my future, though, Xiansheng. Don't think otherwise even for a moment. And that won't change no matter what you decide. I'll wait as long as I have to.
How could he have, though? The pain in his heart cuts deep even now just thinking back to it, and it's a struggle to accept this confession even if it's what he's wanted. There's no way he could have overcome his fear of rejection back then.
Is this something that never would have surfaced if Zhonglis memory wasn't suffering? He doesn't seem to remember anything to do with him being the geo-archon. If that's the thing that's making this possible, does that mean Childe is selfish to accept it? Can it even be considered real if Zhongli would never have given it, otherwise?
(But those circumstances were so long ago and the only one they kept living on in, apparently, was Childe himself.
...Maybe he should just let them go finally, too? )
Leaning forward, he gently touches his nose to Zhongli's, speaking with such adoration even if it's somewhat cautious. ]
I'm... also a coward. But... none of that has to matter, right? We can leave our mistakes in the past, stop chasing it for whatever is missing, and just go forward together, instead, from now on. If you're okay with building a future with me, that is.
[ if this is what Zhongli has really wanted ... Childe doesn't think it's possible to help Zhongli remember and still make him happy. Maybe Zhongli doesn't want to remember at all. Maybe he just doesn't know it himself due to the very nature of losing one's memories. ]
I want you to be my future, though, Xiansheng. Don't think otherwise even for a moment. And that won't change no matter what you decide. I'll wait as long as I have to.
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