[ That brings a small smile to Zhongli's face. He had guessed that Ajax might bring up something like this, much too selfless to allow him to enjoy something just for the sake of enjoying it. But this, too, Zhongli was prepared for. ]
Well then, how about I offer a trade? If you like the service and wish to perform it on me as well after you experience it, I would be delighted to experience that with you.
[ Zhongli reaches over to straighten the yukata where Ajax has fussed over it, smoothing the fabric over his shoulders and once again pressing a hand to his forehead to check for a fever. He is slightly flushed but doesn't seem to be uncomfortable outside of that for now. Well— Zhongli could keep an eye on that. ]
Then please feel free to drop your illusion and make yourself comfortable while I collect some things.
[ That being said, Zhongli rises from the futon so he can gather the normal inn amenities that are lying around— the comb, a small hand held mirrors, various soups and scents. They were not as nice as those that could be found with the heart of Inazuma City, but would still suffice as a good experience.
He comes back to sit at the edge of the futon, exhaling through his nose as he lets his own antlers and tail appear upon his mortal form. Carefully he curls his tail around his own waist so it will not get in his way as he lines up the collected items one by one, picking up the comb first to start. ]
[ Ajax's expressions seem to become a little more playful upon seeing let his adepti features come through. With the youkai's illusion dropped, his ears and tail assist in demonstrating his mood and behaviour far easier.
Without a word he scoots close again in response to the question about his readiness to begin, tails swaying excitedly. It's only once he's in what he feels is a good position that he speaks up. ]
[ Zhongli shifts so that he is sitting behind Childe, hands gently stopping him from moving if he tries to move from his position or turn around. He needs him right here after all if he wants to begin.
Zhongli leans over to pick up a particular bottle of oil and the comb, carefully brushing out the teeth to make sure it's clean as possible. And then he lifts up one of the bushy fox tails on display and begins to painstakingly comb it. Slow and steady, so that all along the length is soft and free of loose fur. If the comb catches on a snarl, he is careful to gently pull it loose with the comb and his fingers, never once tugging harshly on such a sensitive appendage.
All the while, Zhongli hums a quiet tune under his breath. Something foreign and ancient— something from a Liyue of long ago that time and mortal memory has forgotten. ]
[ Zhongli brushing his tails gives him so much to think about. About how he's never brushed them before (he keeps them very clean, but he spends painstaking hours in fox form to do it) and how attentive the old adeptus is to just one tail (and he's still got eight more if he's going that way.)
It's soothing, actually, especially hearing the gentle hum of the other's voice. Ajax really likes everything about it— he really likes everything about Zhongli. Everything is so calming and feels like he can let loose and be at ease, but he soon starts to realize that what he's been bottling up isn't all going to contribute to relaxing when he lets his guard down.
By the time Zhongli makes it to the third tail, Ajax thinks he might die from the feeling it rakes into him with every stroke. It feels as good as it does maddening, sand he's feeling the urge to move, to pounce and take advantage—
— he thinks he understands the "illness" he's feeling, but that knowledge doesn't make it any better to him. He's still only guessing and he isn't quite sure, which makes it even worse to involve anyone else in it especially Zhongli.
Besides, how can he possibly be suffering from a heat cycle, he's not even really a—
...
...Ah... ah ha.
...Well, if he's careful, there's nothing wrong with it, right...?
Surely an adeptus as old as Zhongli will recognize a kitsune trying to seduce him and get something out of him. He can make the proper judgement call at that time. That absolves Ajax of needing to feel guilty on any outcome.
He is very good through the brushing of every tail and with each one so memory cared for, they sway in an unusual gentle motion now, almost as if in trance, and surely if Zhongli pays attention to their movements enough they will feel rather hypnotic themselves, too. Ajax's voice is calm as he addresses his companion again, his expression clearly being one of interest and admiration. ]
Oh, Zhongli-sensei, that felt really good, but I also feel really cold all of a sudden...
[ He doesn't. But he's convinced the only way to ease this feverish temperature is to get as close and as intimate as possible as he can with Zhongli. It's happening because of Zhongli, so he doesn't really have a choice, even if he did have other options. There's nothing wrong with it anyway, he will be more than happy to return the favor of tail brushing once he has the adeptus spent. he'll make sure it's very enjoyable for Zhongli every step of the way.
[ Zhongli puts aside the comb, gently stroking all nine tails once they have been groomed to his very particular standards. It's not that Ajax was not taking good of his tails— they obviously had been well cared for. It is just in Zhongli's nature to want to nurture that which he considers his. Even if it has been such a short time that the two of them have spent together, he does consider Ajax a dear friend. One that he will carry with him and treasure in his memories for the rest of his very long life.
Ajax's words pull him out of his focused concentration and his own meandering thoughts, a small frown tugging on Zhongli's lips.
Ah, that was not proper of him. Ajax had already said he was feeling unwell and Zhongli has taken up so much of his time when he should be resting. Chills and a fever must means that whatever ails him is starting to course through his system. And since Zhongli rarely gets ill himself—
He pulls Ajax into his lap and wraps his arm and kimono around the young kitsune. Zhongli's own body was not necessarily the greatest source of warmth. Since he had been out in the sun all day, there is a chance he might retain some of that heat like a sun bleached rock, but most of the time his temperature ran much cooler than what other living beings were used to. Hopefully Ajax would find it comforting regardless. ]
Are you feeling worse?
If so, I must really recommend that we get you to bed so that you may rest for the night.
[ he didn't expect Zhongli to pull him closer and even into his lap, but he certainly isn't complaining. Regardless of Zhongli's actual body temperature, it feels perfect to Ajax. So much that he surprises himself by shifting comfortably against the other while in his lap.
(It feels like a perfect fit to him...?!)
So the young fox will nuzzle at the crook of Zhongli's neck, both to hide the flush to his cheeks as well as indulge in the other's scent. He likes them smell of the adeptus, which he assumes means there's just even further reason to make sure it's Zhongli he focuses on for dealing with his "illness." ]
I want to stay with you. I like this. Are you coming to bed with me if I agree?
[ Ajax does not appear to be cold — not his temperature upon touch nor does he appear to be shivering. But for whatever reasons, he seems to want to be close to Zhongli and that is enough for the adeptus to wrap himself more tightly around the other as he shifts to pull back the futon covers and prepare them for bed. ]
Then I shall stay with you while you rest.
[ It takes a little maneuvering to get them both under one of the two futon covers. Zhongli's arm still wraps securely around Ajax's waist, trying not to disturb the fox's current position as their legs tangle together.
It's nice, Zhongli thinks, to be so freely affectionate with someone. Relationships in Liyue were always difficult — to start with, he had no experience in mortal relationships so any trysts were just that— short, sweet, and temporal. They were still warm treasured memories, but Zhongli kept no expectations for anything lasting. As Liyue's archon, any sort of relationship would have been a messy minefield of power imbalances as worship was an inseparable part of his relationship with all the people of Liyue. Most of the time, avoiding such things while he was an Archon (and busy with his work) had been the wiser choice.
But here, he is allowed to indulge in the physical nature of his budding friendship with Ajax. And Zhongli was delighted to see that Ajax enjoyed his own company in return. Perhaps too much for the day or so they have spent in each other's company, but century long loneliness could do terrible things to be people. Being a bit clingy was probably the least worrisome action in a long list of what could happen.
Zhongli gently places a kiss on Ajax's temple, settling them both in for the night. ]
And if you need anything, ask, and if it is my power to grant, I shall make it so.
[ Oh. Is this done kind of over accommodation thing they do in Liyue or Zhongli specifically just does for everyone? Ajax doesn't know, but he doesn't care (no, okay, he feels a little jealous at the idea of anyone else getting to be this close to the older adeptus. It is Lady Saiguu jealous? He doesn't think so, but where are these feelings coming from? Ajax doesn't pick anything up that suggested Zhongli and Lady Saiguu were anything beyond friends.)
Admittedly, he is a little surprised that Zhongli not only is this accommodating but he literally is doing everything, including getting them both under the futon and nestled in. Ah, it's almost too nice to disturb with things like... sex. Not that he is even sure Zhongli will do for it. Ajax hasn't exactly matter kitsune seduction charm since he's never needed it as far as he knows but he thinks he can do it well enough...!
For the moment, the fox youkai just cuddles Zhongli fully, encouraged by the kiss. Surely that's a good sign Zhongli likes him! who cares how long they've known each other, it might as well be a lifetime as far as Ajax is concerned. Eventually he stops cuddling to relax a little more, returning his face to nuzzle at that crook of Zhongli's neck again, making sure he gets in between the yukata fabric so he gets bare skin to feel rather than the clothing. the other's scent is really... well, it's really suddenly not just comforting and nice like before but it's arousing. It's arousing enough that he brings his tongue out to delicately lick at some of the Adepti's flesh he has access to. ]
Do really you want to sleep, now, sensei? You're doing all sorts of things to me, enough that I want to play with you first. Do you like to play, too?
[ He says 'play', but if Zhongli's somehow confused by what a kitsune would mean by play once together in a need room, he won't be for long, not with the way Ajax shifts to press their bodies together with just enough motion that there's friction between their clothing that drags firmly along their skin. Not with the way his hand drags an index finger along the others's chest, using his nails to scrape just enough along ridges of muscle to make it feel just that more prominent than a caress.
Certainly not with the way his brings his lips to kiss at Zhongli's neck using his tongue much more suggestively than the initial taste he made.
... And absolutely not when Zhongli will catch the scent of sex pheromones that inevitably are going to be released by a heat cycle to help attract another to mate with.
His question is barely above a whisper, a gutteral wanton sound to it that makes his words slide almost as smoothly as his tongue does over such smooth skin. ]
Ah... better yet— [ his breath is particularly heated and wet as it touches Zhongli's skin. ] will you play with me~?
[ Zhongli's eyes drift closed when Ajax settles against him, preparing them both for a long night's rest. Except as time goes on and Ajax's breathing does not slow (in fact it's the opposite, it seems to increase over time), it's clear that Ajax has no intentions of actually sleeping.
While Zhongli is generally ace by choice and constitution (rocks are not terribly passionate creatures after all), he is not oblivious to the sexual desires of the various creatures of Teyvat. It is not surprising that when finding himself in the presence of another, those desires might rouse within Ajax. The scent of pheromones in the air only confirms Zhongli's suspicions of what he was dealing with, and he immediately shifts into the role of a guardian and a provider.
(Even though he shivers unpleasantly every time Ajax presses his tongue against Zhongli's bare skin. There is no way for the young youkai to know his aversion to all things wet and slimy thanks to the lingering trauma of the Archon war. And these small touches are manageable enough for now.) ]
Ajax.
[ He keeps his voice warm and steady though firm as he reaches up to card a hand through Ajax's hair, scritching behind his ears affectionately. ]
You're a good boy, attractive in appearance and pleasant in personality. I would be willing to play with you, but only after certain rules are established.
[ Stroking at the fine hairs at the nape of his neck, Zhongli attempts to coax Ajax to pull back and look at him directly so they are face to face for this conversation. ]
You are experiencing a heat, yes? Which means your body is given more voice than your mind at the moment. I would like to spend some time to negotiate how far you wish to go and what are your likes and dislikes while not in the throes of passion.
[ he's not good at reading people in bed, so he can't easily distinguish the shivers as from arousal or revulsion, but even Ajax could say with confidence when not on a sexual high things like this can feel just ... unpleasant in general without any trauma added. So it's picked up beyond the thought that Zhongli simply isn't aroused.
Still, Zhongli will get a reprieve, because Ajax really really likes the feeling of his ears being scritched. (And oh does he ever like being told he's good, that someone finds him pleasant and easy on the eyes and—)
Ajax pulls back for Zhongli blinking at him with big (dilated, too) eyes as he speaks, the only hint he's feeling a little bit impatient being the way his ears fall back somewhat submissively in indecision before they seem switch to perking and a fluttering of twitches too quickly to be representation of any real hesitation or uncertainty. His tails, too, are full (and extra soft and prettified thanks to the adeptus and his meticulous work), swaying mostly serene like cattails on the spring breeze until they're interrupted with an inpatient flick here and there.
Still, while the other speaks he does take the time to state into the fascinating golden eyes that are unlike he's ever seen. They're so beautiful he thinks he could wake up every morning to them without feeling an ounce of loss if the sun itself never rose again.
(Is this really what it's like to be in heat and want to go a round with someone? Amazing.)
Once Zhongli finishes, Ajax will lean forward to touch their noses together before finally speaking with a playful and airy chuckle. ] Oya... you really are quite powerful, aren't you, sensei? You can tell which means you smell it, but you don't seem affected at all. Very impressive, even if I am not particularly well-versed in seducing "victims~."
So, I guess we have to do it your way if I can't get you going. [ there's a light playful sigh, and he doesn't say it as if he feels like he failed to do something, just clearly going with the flow of it. He now shifts to let their foreheads touch, looking down at the other with a handsome and confident trace of a smile. ]
Zhongli-sensei is so caring to try and protect me from myself.
Still, I think it's better to ask you those questions. I want to go all the way, and there's nothing I don't like. [ he'll tilt his head to the slide his lips to the other's ear and finish his words with a hungry whisper: ] Especially if it's you~.
[ Ajax doesn't try to reinitiate anything just yet, though, lifting his head back up so he can look at Zhongli again, using one hand to have his finger idly trace random shapes and paths that have no meaning along the other's chest. ] If you are that concerned about such things, tell me how far you'll let me go and what you do and don't like. Don't take too long, though. I want to make it good for you, but that doesn't mean I can keep my senses about me much longer. Feral sex sounds really quite good to me, too.
Morax and Rex Lapis had been propositioned by many people over the years, mortal and adepti and others alike. And while Ajax seems to still retain most of his mental facilities with being open and willing to bargain with him, it is impossible for someone to be so smitten with someone within two days time (or so thinks the stubborn rock whose realization of feelings usually happened well after there was opportunity to do something about that). That means it is the heat that is doing most of the talking, which is something Zhongli finds much easier to navigate.
He wonders for a moment if his own libido is broken — considering Ajax's comments. While it's true that the pheromones give Zhongli a slight warm buzz and make him more agreeable to the situation, personal feelings always came last. So there was no situation in which he could be driven to action by his emotions, regardless of whatever might be coaxing him to reach some particular conclusion. Rex Lapis had put down treasured friends against the wishes of his heart, so unfortunately the unpolished ability of a young youkai had little hope of overcoming his iron will.
Nor was Zhongli wanting to divulge that he was the former Archon of Liyue. Their power dynamics would be irreversible changed when that information came to light. And for now—
Just for a little while— ]
I find little enjoyment in pain and humiliation though this does not forgo rougher mating if that is the best way to soothe your heat.
Shall we agree to this then?
Submit your pleasure to me, completely and without question. Trust that I will bring you to a satisfying conclusion and towards a well-rested night. Give me a safeword and a signal to use in case you cannot speak to voice any changes of mind in regards to you liking everything.
Do that, and I will happily take care of you for the rest of the evening.
[ Perhaps it's a good sign that when Zhongli sets up his own limitations that Ajax head ends up in a small tilt clearly suggesting this is never something that crosses his mind to do. Perhaps because a kitsune has so many tricks up their sleeve that the very idea of needing things such as safe words or signals to tell the other party what pleases them is a very novel idea. For a moment it looks like Ajax might as the dreaded questions one might be prepared for someone that has been so alone and separated from even other fox youkai ("haha, what's a safe word?" "Why would I need a signal? I'm always going to be able to voice something" or even "I don't need those things at all.")
He doesn't, though. His expression chances ever so slightly, the only indication he is seriously contemplating how much he has to play along to Zhongli's rules to get what he wants out of this. It all feels unnecessary to Ajax— but, maybe it's the only way Zhongli will enjoy himself, too. (and that would be so nice, wouldn't it? That Zhongli wasn't just doing him a favor and got something extremely pleasant from it overall.) Finally, the fox youkai speaks, a good natured smile returning to his features.
(Does this mean if he has a rut he has to ask all these things to Zhongli first, too? Is that how it works? Better yet, why is he even thinking about it being Zhongli automatically when they haven't even done anything yet the first time?) ]
Safe word is "白夜." Gesture is snapping. [ and Ajax will snap his fingers to demonstrate. ]
[ It is good that Ajax did not begin with admitting he did not know why such precautions needed to be put in place. Otherwise, there would have been a lengthy lecture that would have killed the mood even more thoroughly than Zhongli managed to, heat or no heat. ]
Shall we begin then?
[ Zhongli sits up, covers of the futon carefully folded out of the way so they will neither get in the way nor become dirtied with the activities that were about to take place. His movements are unhurried as he carefully undoes his own yukata, slipping the obi from around his waist and folding the material back to its pristine condition as when they had entered their lodgings for the night.
Once completed, he reaches for Ajax's yukata — and begins the undressing process in the same methodological and meticulous manner. If Ajax tries to touch Zhongli or himself during this time, the hands are snatched in a vice grip, a single kiss dragged across all five knuckles before they are placed back on the futon and Zhongli continues his work as if he had not been disturbed at all. ]
[ Of course, Ajax is curious to want to touch Zhongli, blinking owlishly at the stark contrast in how the strength in the group is versus the gentle affection of the kiss across his knuckles. he doesn't try again for the time being but not for lack of wanting to. He agreed to let Zhongli control it, right it? So he's supposed to just let him handle it (but he is so impatient, he needs to touch and be touched, to feel someone else that will squash this needy heat with one far more satisfying— )
He does his best to stay patient for now. How long that will last is anyone's guess. ]
[ Once the both of them are laid bare, Zhongli's strokes his palms all along Ajax's body. Over the curve of his shoulders and down the length of spine, cutting back across his ribs to smooth down his stomach as he gently lays him back down against the futon.
One hand idly strokes down his inner thigh as he leans down to press a kiss just to the tip of the kitsune's noise. ]
Can you close your eyes for me? Relax. Take long deep breaths.
Just because your body is telling you to rush does not mean we must be careless. Your pleasure is a wonderous thing— something that should be treasured and nourished to its full potential.
[ zhongli is so fascinating with his commitment and attentiveness, and they haven't even done anything together, yet. Ajax watches him with awe until he's asked to close his eyes— which he does.
Still he can't help but ask. ]
My pleasure...? Is that okay to think when it's something like being in heat that's causing it...? [ not that he believes Zhongli has nothing to do with it— he has everything to do with it, even. Ajax takes some deep breaths once finished to follow instructions nevertheless ]
[ Zhongli's hands still smooth over Ajax's body, alternating between light and firm touches to see where he might react best to physical stimulation (though he stays away from between the kitsune's thighs for now). To proceed so quickly and directly would hamper what he tentatively had planned for their time together. For while they were both in overall agreement, the finer details of how to proceed were still up in the air, and Zhongli would do his best to tease out Ajax's preferences in whatever methods were available to him. ]
Well I suppose that depends. If you are looking to produce offspring, then that should be the focus. However, in that instance, I do not know if I would be a suitable partner. We both live in separate nation and have our own duties which tie us to our homes. Children deserve the love of both parents if they are both available.
If not for reproduction, then pleasure seems the next most logical conclusion and what I assumed we would aim for moving forward.
A third option is clinically focusing on working your heat through you system as quickly and efficiently as possible. However, if that was your priority, I do believe you would have propositioned me in a very different manner.
[ Selfishly, it had also been a long time since he had touched and brought pleasure to another. Zhongli's own particular nature and brutal high standards would ensure that it would be memorable for the both of them. There was no need to spoil it with efficiency. ]
[ It's really hard to keep from trying to just force his way onto Zhongli's dick, if he's honest. He assumes the only reason he's able to keep from doing so is because his body isn't experiencing a real heat like a normal kitsune would and is some fluke response. Even so, he can't help react to certain things more positively and enthusiastically than others. He shivers at the touches to areas that feel especially good, and squirms when it's areas particularly close to falling between his thighs if Zhongli would give him just a little more.
The mention of offspring throws Ajax for a loop. His flushed features from arousal burn a deep color and hot, shy and embarrassed at the thought of asking such a thing of Zhongli (and as much as he will deny it later, the heat just makes him want to feel good getting fucked thoroughly. If that means being bred or whatever else, he can't say it particularly bothers him, especially if it's Zhongli doing it.) How can he consider something like that?
He catches the other two options less clearly but does ask in a hitched breath a follow-up question to them: ]
... How would I proposition you then...? I do .... want to feel good with you—ah, it's a little. . . difficult to think beyond that, though.
[ Ajax knows better than to think any further. This isn't going to mean anything despite Zhongli being so strangely meticulous and caring about the enjoyment they will both get.
[ Ah. He's being cruel, isn't he? Ajax just wants to find reprieve from his encroaching heat and here was Zhongli, prattling on as he always did. As a good partner, he should first make sure Ajax is comfortable before bogging him down with twenty questions or an analysis of the situation.
(That is what he tells himself anyway, completely refusing to acknowledge the fact that Ajax's own pheromones are slowly ebbing away at his resolve, like the tide washing the beach smooth and clean.)
Logic first. Logic always had to come first. ]
A discussion for another time then.
[ This time a hand does slip in between Ajax's thighs, a soft caress of first his hand and then the silk of his long yukata sleeve brushing along the length of the kitsune's dick all the way from tip to base. But that is just a prelude and a tease to where Zhongli intends to go as deft fingers carefully pry his cheeks apart and circle around his rim just to see how wet Ajax was with his own slick already. If he was already prepared, then Zhongli could begin with offering him pleasure and relief, leaving the rest of Zhongli's questions for later.
Gently, as he continues to rub over the heated sensitive flesh: ]
Then there is no need to think. Your body will tell me if it's ready and if this feels good.
As soon as his dick is brushed over his mind go blank with hot white light and noise. It's more swollen and tender than he imagined what with not having touched it, but that just means he wants to be fondled even more. When those hands reach his rim after his cheeks are separated, there's a small keen at the ring of flesh being sensitive and all that too. Slick coats his rim and even drips now that his cheeks aren't holding it in place, and although Ajax can feel it leaking out a bit, he's not entirely aware of just how wet he is (nor does he realize that's all from wanting Zhongli more and more rather than simply to be fucked stupid.)
He shudders, a breathless "Zhongli" escaping him before he attempts to squirm forward to feel more of the other's fingers on (and in) him.
The pheromones he gives off, although not so easy for him to control, get stronger the more desperate and sexually frustrated he becomes. ]
[ Zhongli's continue to circle round his rim, coating his fingers as he goes.
Good. Not only would it be somewhat embarrassing to try and find something that could substitute for lubrication from the staff, but Zhongli doubts that the little kitsune would handle any further interruptions well. His own slick should suffice for at least the initial penetration. ]
Yes, Ajax?
[ He maneuvers them so Ajax can settle more comfortably against the sheets, one knee hooked over Zhongli's shoulder to keep him pliant and open as Zhongli works. ]
Be good for me, will you.
[ Once he feels that the youkai is sufficiently prepared, he slips two fingers inside and continues the steady motions now inside of Ajax, eager to coax his names from Ajax's lips a second (and many more) times. He was also not oblivious to how other areas of the fox also cry for attention. Once he's set a pace with one hand, his other moves to circle around Ajax's dick, pumping it in time to his other ministrations. Every time he reaches the tip, he gently swipes his thumb across it using that as a gauge to how close he is.
If Zhongli were to stop to consider his own actions, he would note how easy it is for him to fall into the role of a provider— whether that is safety or companionship or even pleasure like this. He's overall unused to feeling... well, not needed if he were to put it bluntly. His days can be spent however he pleases which is how he was able to travel to Inazuma in the first place. So this small service he could provide, just the attention of a single living being, was doing wonders on keeping the cavernous empty feelings that he knew he would have to face someday from materializing.
[ Good? He'll be so good if it means getting more of what Zhongli offers. Any lingering doubts that this feeling is a farce leaves his mind— whether or not it's a real heat doesn't matter: he's feeling it, experiencing it, and craving it for what he is being given as a result. He does the only thing he can right now, lie back in wanton display of his pleasure, not an inch of him ignoring the sensations being given. He's quite sensitive, it seems, and even his tails seem to writhe in the pleasure they experience from Zhongli's hands.
The other is making it all so damn good and it's just his fingers!
Being indulged has Ajax feeling even more consumed by his heat, enough that embarrassment and shyness is starting to evaporate in favor of enjoying himself in more pleasure. (he wants to see Zhongli enjoying himself, too, will the other make sure to do that or does he have to coax and remind him? He wants to be good really really good for the adeptus.)
He refrains from trying to touch the other for the moment, but it's clear that he wants to, and he looks up at Zhongli with a sultry and aroused expression all the while even as he tries to control his breathing and the sounds escaping. ] Ahn... You, too. I want you to feel good, too. Will it ...feel good inside of me for you?
[ Zhongli returns that look with a fond smile, fingers twisting inside Ajax to find that spot that will really make him shudder. He's being a bit of a tease, he knows, when Ajax is trying so hard to seduce him. The adeptus cannot help but find the expression more endearing than anything.
Zhongli's feelings for the youkai already go well past mere physical attraction. He does not believe himself capable of any romantic feelings, but Ajax has proven himself to be a dear friend. A dear friend that he wishes to make feel good and indulge the youkai's seemingly bottomless desire to please Zhongli and feel useful. These were two things that Zhongli would happily grant the other. ]
Of course. You're beautiful and very responsive.
[ Another twist of his fingers. ]
How can it be anything but enjoyable for me?
But I wish to start by taking the edge of. Just a little. So that when I am inside of you we can take our time.
[ He leans down, a tender kiss placed against his brow as he continues to work Ajax over. ]
no subject
Well then, how about I offer a trade? If you like the service and wish to perform it on me as well after you experience it, I would be delighted to experience that with you.
no subject
Ajax smiles now, quite happy with this idea. ]
Oh, yes, I would like that very much.
no subject
Then please feel free to drop your illusion and make yourself comfortable while I collect some things.
[ That being said, Zhongli rises from the futon so he can gather the normal inn amenities that are lying around— the comb, a small hand held mirrors, various soups and scents. They were not as nice as those that could be found with the heart of Inazuma City, but would still suffice as a good experience.
He comes back to sit at the edge of the futon, exhaling through his nose as he lets his own antlers and tail appear upon his mortal form. Carefully he curls his tail around his own waist so it will not get in his way as he lines up the collected items one by one, picking up the comb first to start. ]
Shall we?
no subject
Without a word he scoots close again in response to the question about his readiness to begin, tails swaying excitedly. It's only once he's in what he feels is a good position that he speaks up. ]
Okay~. I'm ready now.
no subject
[ Zhongli shifts so that he is sitting behind Childe, hands gently stopping him from moving if he tries to move from his position or turn around. He needs him right here after all if he wants to begin.
Zhongli leans over to pick up a particular bottle of oil and the comb, carefully brushing out the teeth to make sure it's clean as possible. And then he lifts up one of the bushy fox tails on display and begins to painstakingly comb it. Slow and steady, so that all along the length is soft and free of loose fur. If the comb catches on a snarl, he is careful to gently pull it loose with the comb and his fingers, never once tugging harshly on such a sensitive appendage.
All the while, Zhongli hums a quiet tune under his breath. Something foreign and ancient— something from a Liyue of long ago that time and mortal memory has forgotten. ]
no subject
It's soothing, actually, especially hearing the gentle hum of the other's voice. Ajax really likes everything about it— he really likes everything about Zhongli. Everything is so calming and feels like he can let loose and be at ease, but he soon starts to realize that what he's been bottling up isn't all going to contribute to relaxing when he lets his guard down.
By the time Zhongli makes it to the third tail, Ajax thinks he might die from the feeling it rakes into him with every stroke. It feels as good as it does maddening, sand he's feeling the urge to move, to pounce and take advantage—
— he thinks he understands the "illness" he's feeling, but that knowledge doesn't make it any better to him. He's still only guessing and he isn't quite sure, which makes it even worse to involve anyone else in it especially Zhongli.
Besides, how can he possibly be suffering from a heat cycle, he's not even really a—
...
...Ah... ah ha.
...Well, if he's careful, there's nothing wrong with it, right...?
Surely an adeptus as old as Zhongli will recognize a kitsune trying to seduce him and get something out of him. He can make the proper judgement call at that time. That absolves Ajax of needing to feel guilty on any outcome.
He is very good through the brushing of every tail and with each one so memory cared for, they sway in an unusual gentle motion now, almost as if in trance, and surely if Zhongli pays attention to their movements enough they will feel rather hypnotic themselves, too. Ajax's voice is calm as he addresses his companion again, his expression clearly being one of interest and admiration. ]
Oh, Zhongli-sensei, that felt really good, but I also feel really cold all of a sudden...
[ He doesn't. But he's convinced the only way to ease this feverish temperature is to get as close and as intimate as possible as he can with Zhongli. It's happening because of Zhongli, so he doesn't really have a choice, even if he did have other options. There's nothing wrong with it anyway, he will be more than happy to return the favor of tail brushing once he has the adeptus spent. he'll make sure it's very enjoyable for Zhongli every step of the way.
Otherwise he's welcome to stop it. ]
no subject
Ajax's words pull him out of his focused concentration and his own meandering thoughts, a small frown tugging on Zhongli's lips.
Ah, that was not proper of him. Ajax had already said he was feeling unwell and Zhongli has taken up so much of his time when he should be resting. Chills and a fever must means that whatever ails him is starting to course through his system. And since Zhongli rarely gets ill himself—
He pulls Ajax into his lap and wraps his arm and kimono around the young kitsune. Zhongli's own body was not necessarily the greatest source of warmth. Since he had been out in the sun all day, there is a chance he might retain some of that heat like a sun bleached rock, but most of the time his temperature ran much cooler than what other living beings were used to. Hopefully Ajax would find it comforting regardless. ]
Are you feeling worse?
If so, I must really recommend that we get you to bed so that you may rest for the night.
no subject
(It feels like a perfect fit to him...?!)
So the young fox will nuzzle at the crook of Zhongli's neck, both to hide the flush to his cheeks as well as indulge in the other's scent. He likes them smell of the adeptus, which he assumes means there's just even further reason to make sure it's Zhongli he focuses on for dealing with his "illness." ]
I want to stay with you. I like this. Are you coming to bed with me if I agree?
no subject
Then I shall stay with you while you rest.
[ It takes a little maneuvering to get them both under one of the two futon covers. Zhongli's arm still wraps securely around Ajax's waist, trying not to disturb the fox's current position as their legs tangle together.
It's nice, Zhongli thinks, to be so freely affectionate with someone. Relationships in Liyue were always difficult — to start with, he had no experience in mortal relationships so any trysts were just that— short, sweet, and temporal. They were still warm treasured memories, but Zhongli kept no expectations for anything lasting. As Liyue's archon, any sort of relationship would have been a messy minefield of power imbalances as worship was an inseparable part of his relationship with all the people of Liyue. Most of the time, avoiding such things while he was an Archon (and busy with his work) had been the wiser choice.
But here, he is allowed to indulge in the physical nature of his budding friendship with Ajax. And Zhongli was delighted to see that Ajax enjoyed his own company in return. Perhaps too much for the day or so they have spent in each other's company, but century long loneliness could do terrible things to be people. Being a bit clingy was probably the least worrisome action in a long list of what could happen.
Zhongli gently places a kiss on Ajax's temple, settling them both in for the night. ]
And if you need anything, ask, and if it is my power to grant, I shall make it so.
no subject
Admittedly, he is a little surprised that Zhongli not only is this accommodating but he literally is doing everything, including getting them both under the futon and nestled in. Ah, it's almost too nice to disturb with things like... sex. Not that he is even sure Zhongli will do for it. Ajax hasn't exactly matter kitsune seduction charm since he's never needed it as far as he knows but he thinks he can do it well enough...!
For the moment, the fox youkai just cuddles Zhongli fully, encouraged by the kiss. Surely that's a good sign Zhongli likes him! who cares how long they've known each other, it might as well be a lifetime as far as Ajax is concerned. Eventually he stops cuddling to relax a little more, returning his face to nuzzle at that crook of Zhongli's neck again, making sure he gets in between the yukata fabric so he gets bare skin to feel rather than the clothing. the other's scent is really... well, it's really suddenly not just comforting and nice like before but it's arousing. It's arousing enough that he brings his tongue out to delicately lick at some of the Adepti's flesh he has access to. ]
Do really you want to sleep, now, sensei? You're doing all sorts of things to me, enough that I want to play with you first. Do you like to play, too?
[ He says 'play', but if Zhongli's somehow confused by what a kitsune would mean by play once together in a need room, he won't be for long, not with the way Ajax shifts to press their bodies together with just enough motion that there's friction between their clothing that drags firmly along their skin. Not with the way his hand drags an index finger along the others's chest, using his nails to scrape just enough along ridges of muscle to make it feel just that more prominent than a caress.
Certainly not with the way his brings his lips to kiss at Zhongli's neck using his tongue much more suggestively than the initial taste he made.
... And absolutely not when Zhongli will catch the scent of sex pheromones that inevitably are going to be released by a heat cycle to help attract another to mate with.
His question is barely above a whisper, a gutteral wanton sound to it that makes his words slide almost as smoothly as his tongue does over such smooth skin. ]
Ah... better yet— [ his breath is particularly heated and wet as it touches Zhongli's skin. ] will you play with me~?
no subject
While Zhongli is generally ace by choice and constitution (rocks are not terribly passionate creatures after all), he is not oblivious to the sexual desires of the various creatures of Teyvat. It is not surprising that when finding himself in the presence of another, those desires might rouse within Ajax. The scent of pheromones in the air only confirms Zhongli's suspicions of what he was dealing with, and he immediately shifts into the role of a guardian and a provider.
(Even though he shivers unpleasantly every time Ajax presses his tongue against Zhongli's bare skin. There is no way for the young youkai to know his aversion to all things wet and slimy thanks to the lingering trauma of the Archon war. And these small touches are manageable enough for now.) ]
Ajax.
[ He keeps his voice warm and steady though firm as he reaches up to card a hand through Ajax's hair, scritching behind his ears affectionately. ]
You're a good boy, attractive in appearance and pleasant in personality. I would be willing to play with you, but only after certain rules are established.
[ Stroking at the fine hairs at the nape of his neck, Zhongli attempts to coax Ajax to pull back and look at him directly so they are face to face for this conversation. ]
You are experiencing a heat, yes? Which means your body is given more voice than your mind at the moment. I would like to spend some time to negotiate how far you wish to go and what are your likes and dislikes while not in the throes of passion.
Is that something that you can do for me?
no subject
Still, Zhongli will get a reprieve, because Ajax really really likes the feeling of his ears being scritched. (And oh does he ever like being told he's good, that someone finds him pleasant and easy on the eyes and—)
Ajax pulls back for Zhongli blinking at him with big (dilated, too) eyes as he speaks, the only hint he's feeling a little bit impatient being the way his ears fall back somewhat submissively in indecision before they seem switch to perking and a fluttering of twitches too quickly to be representation of any real hesitation or uncertainty. His tails, too, are full (and extra soft and prettified thanks to the adeptus and his meticulous work), swaying mostly serene like cattails on the spring breeze until they're interrupted with an inpatient flick here and there.
Still, while the other speaks he does take the time to state into the fascinating golden eyes that are unlike he's ever seen. They're so beautiful he thinks he could wake up every morning to them without feeling an ounce of loss if the sun itself never rose again.
(Is this really what it's like to be in heat and want to go a round with someone? Amazing.)
Once Zhongli finishes, Ajax will lean forward to touch their noses together before finally speaking with a playful and airy chuckle. ] Oya... you really are quite powerful, aren't you, sensei? You can tell which means you smell it, but you don't seem affected at all. Very impressive, even if I am not particularly well-versed in seducing "victims~."
So, I guess we have to do it your way if I can't get you going. [ there's a light playful sigh, and he doesn't say it as if he feels like he failed to do something, just clearly going with the flow of it. He now shifts to let their foreheads touch, looking down at the other with a handsome and confident trace of a smile. ]
Zhongli-sensei is so caring to try and protect me from myself.
Still, I think it's better to ask you those questions. I want to go all the way, and there's nothing I don't like. [ he'll tilt his head to the slide his lips to the other's ear and finish his words with a hungry whisper: ] Especially if it's you~.
[ Ajax doesn't try to reinitiate anything just yet, though, lifting his head back up so he can look at Zhongli again, using one hand to have his finger idly trace random shapes and paths that have no meaning along the other's chest. ] If you are that concerned about such things, tell me how far you'll let me go and what you do and don't like. Don't take too long, though. I want to make it good for you, but that doesn't mean I can keep my senses about me much longer. Feral sex sounds really quite good to me, too.
no subject
Morax and Rex Lapis had been propositioned by many people over the years, mortal and adepti and others alike. And while Ajax seems to still retain most of his mental facilities with being open and willing to bargain with him, it is impossible for someone to be so smitten with someone within two days time (or so thinks the stubborn rock whose realization of feelings usually happened well after there was opportunity to do something about that). That means it is the heat that is doing most of the talking, which is something Zhongli finds much easier to navigate.
He wonders for a moment if his own libido is broken — considering Ajax's comments. While it's true that the pheromones give Zhongli a slight warm buzz and make him more agreeable to the situation, personal feelings always came last. So there was no situation in which he could be driven to action by his emotions, regardless of whatever might be coaxing him to reach some particular conclusion. Rex Lapis had put down treasured friends against the wishes of his heart, so unfortunately the unpolished ability of a young youkai had little hope of overcoming his iron will.
Nor was Zhongli wanting to divulge that he was the former Archon of Liyue. Their power dynamics would be irreversible changed when that information came to light. And for now—
Just for a little while— ]
I find little enjoyment in pain and humiliation though this does not forgo rougher mating if that is the best way to soothe your heat.
Shall we agree to this then?
Submit your pleasure to me, completely and without question. Trust that I will bring you to a satisfying conclusion and towards a well-rested night. Give me a safeword and a signal to use in case you cannot speak to voice any changes of mind in regards to you liking everything.
Do that, and I will happily take care of you for the rest of the evening.
no subject
He doesn't, though. His expression chances ever so slightly, the only indication he is seriously contemplating how much he has to play along to Zhongli's rules to get what he wants out of this. It all feels unnecessary to Ajax— but, maybe it's the only way Zhongli will enjoy himself, too. (and that would be so nice, wouldn't it? That Zhongli wasn't just doing him a favor and got something extremely pleasant from it overall.) Finally, the fox youkai speaks, a good natured smile returning to his features.
(Does this mean if he has a rut he has to ask all these things to Zhongli first, too? Is that how it works? Better yet, why is he even thinking about it being Zhongli automatically when they haven't even done anything yet the first time?) ]
Safe word is "白夜." Gesture is snapping. [ and Ajax will snap his fingers to demonstrate. ]
Is it acceptable?
no subject
[ It is good that Ajax did not begin with admitting he did not know why such precautions needed to be put in place. Otherwise, there would have been a lengthy lecture that would have killed the mood even more thoroughly than Zhongli managed to, heat or no heat. ]
Shall we begin then?
[ Zhongli sits up, covers of the futon carefully folded out of the way so they will neither get in the way nor become dirtied with the activities that were about to take place. His movements are unhurried as he carefully undoes his own yukata, slipping the obi from around his waist and folding the material back to its pristine condition as when they had entered their lodgings for the night.
Once completed, he reaches for Ajax's yukata — and begins the undressing process in the same methodological and meticulous manner. If Ajax tries to touch Zhongli or himself during this time, the hands are snatched in a vice grip, a single kiss dragged across all five knuckles before they are placed back on the futon and Zhongli continues his work as if he had not been disturbed at all. ]
no subject
He does his best to stay patient for now. How long that will last is anyone's guess. ]
no subject
One hand idly strokes down his inner thigh as he leans down to press a kiss just to the tip of the kitsune's noise. ]
Can you close your eyes for me? Relax. Take long deep breaths.
Just because your body is telling you to rush does not mean we must be careless. Your pleasure is a wonderous thing— something that should be treasured and nourished to its full potential.
I would like you to experience all of that.
no subject
Still he can't help but ask. ]
My pleasure...? Is that okay to think when it's something like being in heat that's causing it...? [ not that he believes Zhongli has nothing to do with it— he has everything to do with it, even. Ajax takes some deep breaths once finished to follow instructions nevertheless ]
no subject
Well I suppose that depends. If you are looking to produce offspring, then that should be the focus. However, in that instance, I do not know if I would be a suitable partner. We both live in separate nation and have our own duties which tie us to our homes. Children deserve the love of both parents if they are both available.
If not for reproduction, then pleasure seems the next most logical conclusion and what I assumed we would aim for moving forward.
A third option is clinically focusing on working your heat through you system as quickly and efficiently as possible. However, if that was your priority, I do believe you would have propositioned me in a very different manner.
[ Selfishly, it had also been a long time since he had touched and brought pleasure to another. Zhongli's own particular nature and brutal high standards would ensure that it would be memorable for the both of them. There was no need to spoil it with efficiency. ]
no subject
The mention of offspring throws Ajax for a loop. His flushed features from arousal burn a deep color and hot, shy and embarrassed at the thought of asking such a thing of Zhongli (and as much as he will deny it later, the heat just makes him want to feel good getting fucked thoroughly. If that means being bred or whatever else, he can't say it particularly bothers him, especially if it's Zhongli doing it.) How can he consider something like that?
He catches the other two options less clearly but does ask in a hitched breath a follow-up question to them: ]
... How would I proposition you then...? I do .... want to feel good with you—ah, it's a little. . . difficult to think beyond that, though.
[ Ajax knows better than to think any further. This isn't going to mean anything despite Zhongli being so strangely meticulous and caring about the enjoyment they will both get.
no subject
(That is what he tells himself anyway, completely refusing to acknowledge the fact that Ajax's own pheromones are slowly ebbing away at his resolve, like the tide washing the beach smooth and clean.)
Logic first. Logic always had to come first. ]
A discussion for another time then.
[ This time a hand does slip in between Ajax's thighs, a soft caress of first his hand and then the silk of his long yukata sleeve brushing along the length of the kitsune's dick all the way from tip to base. But that is just a prelude and a tease to where Zhongli intends to go as deft fingers carefully pry his cheeks apart and circle around his rim just to see how wet Ajax was with his own slick already. If he was already prepared, then Zhongli could begin with offering him pleasure and relief, leaving the rest of Zhongli's questions for later.
Gently, as he continues to rub over the heated sensitive flesh: ]
Then there is no need to think. Your body will tell me if it's ready and if this feels good.
no subject
As soon as his dick is brushed over his mind go blank with hot white light and noise. It's more swollen and tender than he imagined what with not having touched it, but that just means he wants to be fondled even more. When those hands reach his rim after his cheeks are separated, there's a small keen at the ring of flesh being sensitive and all that too. Slick coats his rim and even drips now that his cheeks aren't holding it in place, and although Ajax can feel it leaking out a bit, he's not entirely aware of just how wet he is (nor does he realize that's all from wanting Zhongli more and more rather than simply to be fucked stupid.)
He shudders, a breathless "Zhongli" escaping him before he attempts to squirm forward to feel more of the other's fingers on (and in) him.
The pheromones he gives off, although not so easy for him to control, get stronger the more desperate and sexually frustrated he becomes. ]
no subject
Good. Not only would it be somewhat embarrassing to try and find something that could substitute for lubrication from the staff, but Zhongli doubts that the little kitsune would handle any further interruptions well. His own slick should suffice for at least the initial penetration. ]
Yes, Ajax?
[ He maneuvers them so Ajax can settle more comfortably against the sheets, one knee hooked over Zhongli's shoulder to keep him pliant and open as Zhongli works. ]
Be good for me, will you.
[ Once he feels that the youkai is sufficiently prepared, he slips two fingers inside and continues the steady motions now inside of Ajax, eager to coax his names from Ajax's lips a second (and many more) times. He was also not oblivious to how other areas of the fox also cry for attention. Once he's set a pace with one hand, his other moves to circle around Ajax's dick, pumping it in time to his other ministrations. Every time he reaches the tip, he gently swipes his thumb across it using that as a gauge to how close he is.
If Zhongli were to stop to consider his own actions, he would note how easy it is for him to fall into the role of a provider— whether that is safety or companionship or even pleasure like this. He's overall unused to feeling... well, not needed if he were to put it bluntly. His days can be spent however he pleases which is how he was able to travel to Inazuma in the first place. So this small service he could provide, just the attention of a single living being, was doing wonders on keeping the cavernous empty feelings that he knew he would have to face someday from materializing.
Later.
He could deal with such issues later. ]
no subject
The other is making it all so damn good and it's just his fingers!
Being indulged has Ajax feeling even more consumed by his heat, enough that embarrassment and shyness is starting to evaporate in favor of enjoying himself in more pleasure. (he wants to see Zhongli enjoying himself, too, will the other make sure to do that or does he have to coax and remind him? He wants to be good really really good for the adeptus.)
He refrains from trying to touch the other for the moment, but it's clear that he wants to, and he looks up at Zhongli with a sultry and aroused expression all the while even as he tries to control his breathing and the sounds escaping. ] Ahn... You, too. I want you to feel good, too. Will it ...feel good inside of me for you?
no subject
Zhongli's feelings for the youkai already go well past mere physical attraction. He does not believe himself capable of any romantic feelings, but Ajax has proven himself to be a dear friend. A dear friend that he wishes to make feel good and indulge the youkai's seemingly bottomless desire to please Zhongli and feel useful. These were two things that Zhongli would happily grant the other. ]
Of course. You're beautiful and very responsive.
[ Another twist of his fingers. ]
How can it be anything but enjoyable for me?
But I wish to start by taking the edge of. Just a little. So that when I am inside of you we can take our time.
[ He leans down, a tender kiss placed against his brow as he continues to work Ajax over. ]
Would you like that?
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)