Tartaglia 🐳 Childe (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
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hydrangeabloom2023-10-21 10:29 pm
misfittoys) wrote in hydrangeabloom2023-10-21 10:29 pm
Mafia AU
[ A tale of two people leading double-lives and the inevitable misunderstandings that follow ]
[The unexpected intimacy of Ajax's touch, the way his hands cup Zhongli's cheeks and coax a smile from his lips, has him start soft, but easily melted away. The sincerity in Ajax's eyes, the unbridled joy and eagerness to please brushes away any lingering guilt. Zhongli finds himself leaning into the touch in the same way Ajax had leaned into his own fingers in his hair, his hands coming up to gently cradle Ajax's, his thumb brushing over the younger man's knuckles and he titters something low and subtle, amused.]
Bad habits, I'm afraid, [he says softly, his smile bashful but genuine as he admits this.] People keep telling me I have an obsession with fairness.
I can dry it and make it a bookmark, too. [His eyes lift again to meet Ajax's, warm and filled with a newfound sense of ease. The younger man's presence is a balm, soothing the weight of responsibility and the turmoil of the past week. Of any implication of their encounter. To have someone so generously offer him things, somehow that slips under his skin to warm him.] I appreciate your kindness. It means more to me than you know.
Bad habits, I'm afraid, [he says softly, his smile bashful but genuine as he admits this.] People keep telling me I have an obsession with fairness.
I can dry it and make it a bookmark, too. [His eyes lift again to meet Ajax's, warm and filled with a newfound sense of ease. The younger man's presence is a balm, soothing the weight of responsibility and the turmoil of the past week. Of any implication of their encounter. To have someone so generously offer him things, somehow that slips under his skin to warm him.] I appreciate your kindness. It means more to me than you know.
[ When Morax brushes shoulders with him, Azhdaha leans into the faint touch offering himself as a place for the other to lean upon, a support that would not crumble no matter how violent or different the world spun around them. It is not even a conscious thought so much as it is act of muscle memory— an ingrained habit after years of walking this path together. On yellowed scrolls of parchment that Morax had always favored, Azhdaha had offered his eternal service to Rex Lapis. Signed and sealed and kept safe like all of his other contracts. But that was just a formality, a pebble in the foundation of their shared efforts and dreams for the many years that they had spent together.
As cliche as it sounded, Morax had been the one to bring light to Azhdaha's darkness. He would follow the other to the ends of the earth. Which made Osial's betrayal that much more bitter to stomach. That he would squander Morax's generosity so. And worse yet, use it to hurt him. ]
Osial is a fool. But a crafty one at that.
[ What Morax had bartered through fairness and principles, Osial had bought through avarice and grandeur accompanied by risks that would inevitably result in someone paying the price. As long as Osial was fluid enough to dodge the consequences of his actions, then the house of cards remained standing. Perhaps even looking more fortified and plentiful than what Rex Lapis had to offer.
Surely there was a generous bounty on Morax's head even as the two of them crept farther and farther into the serpent's layer. And though many would not succeed, all it would take was one. One misstep. One miscalculation. One chance of a thousand or a hundred thousand or a million.
(A chance that would not happen under Azhdaha's watch.)
He falls into step behind Morax even before he is asked to follow. As if there was anywhere else for him to be beside the right hand of Rex Lapis. ]
It is a pity really that he succumbed to his own pride and greed. But there is no mercy for those who renege upon their contracts.
[ The polished floors are damp the further in they go, and in the distance there is a haunting dripping sound that echoes through the hallways.
For many quiet moments, they pass no more guards and meet no resistance. The only sign of life around them are the hastily ransacked rooms of panicked traders and merchants and other non-combatants (those who knew better than to stick around in the rising tension between two dons). It is only when they approach the core of the complex which would house Osial and his lieutenants that the disorderly chaos stops. The water is now an inch deep, enough to catch their reflection across its surface as they walk.
Drip. Drip. Drip. ]
As cliche as it sounded, Morax had been the one to bring light to Azhdaha's darkness. He would follow the other to the ends of the earth. Which made Osial's betrayal that much more bitter to stomach. That he would squander Morax's generosity so. And worse yet, use it to hurt him. ]
Osial is a fool. But a crafty one at that.
[ What Morax had bartered through fairness and principles, Osial had bought through avarice and grandeur accompanied by risks that would inevitably result in someone paying the price. As long as Osial was fluid enough to dodge the consequences of his actions, then the house of cards remained standing. Perhaps even looking more fortified and plentiful than what Rex Lapis had to offer.
Surely there was a generous bounty on Morax's head even as the two of them crept farther and farther into the serpent's layer. And though many would not succeed, all it would take was one. One misstep. One miscalculation. One chance of a thousand or a hundred thousand or a million.
(A chance that would not happen under Azhdaha's watch.)
He falls into step behind Morax even before he is asked to follow. As if there was anywhere else for him to be beside the right hand of Rex Lapis. ]
It is a pity really that he succumbed to his own pride and greed. But there is no mercy for those who renege upon their contracts.
[ The polished floors are damp the further in they go, and in the distance there is a haunting dripping sound that echoes through the hallways.
For many quiet moments, they pass no more guards and meet no resistance. The only sign of life around them are the hastily ransacked rooms of panicked traders and merchants and other non-combatants (those who knew better than to stick around in the rising tension between two dons). It is only when they approach the core of the complex which would house Osial and his lieutenants that the disorderly chaos stops. The water is now an inch deep, enough to catch their reflection across its surface as they walk.
Drip. Drip. Drip. ]
[ Warmth begets warmth as Ajax also smiles wider the more at ease that Zhongli seems to feel. Good. Good. This is what he wanted. Ajax was nothing but sincere when he said he wanted to spoil Zhongli, and spoiling wasn't limited to just physical gifts of appreciation. He wanted the other to feel appreciation as well. It was just a nice and convenient bonus that Zhongli found all of Ajax's antics to be charming. ]
Fairness and the aura of responsibility of the eldest brother.
[ Grinning, he loops one arm in Zhongli's and starts heading in the direction of the museum entrance. ]
All of which I hope you don't have a single minute of time to think about as you stand in awe of my prowess over the various forms of chess all around Teyvat.
[ Ajax produces two already paid for entrance tickets once they reach the attendant (haha, take that, Xiansheng! Two can play at that game now that Ajax knows the rules) and inside they slip into a cozy, slightly casual, and ...not very busy homage to all things chess/shogi/go/etc. and adjacent.
Ajax points to a set-up similar to the quaint park table where they met. ]
I thought we'd start with a rematch of the classics.
Fairness and the aura of responsibility of the eldest brother.
[ Grinning, he loops one arm in Zhongli's and starts heading in the direction of the museum entrance. ]
All of which I hope you don't have a single minute of time to think about as you stand in awe of my prowess over the various forms of chess all around Teyvat.
[ Ajax produces two already paid for entrance tickets once they reach the attendant (haha, take that, Xiansheng! Two can play at that game now that Ajax knows the rules) and inside they slip into a cozy, slightly casual, and ...not very busy homage to all things chess/shogi/go/etc. and adjacent.
Ajax points to a set-up similar to the quaint park table where they met. ]
I thought we'd start with a rematch of the classics.
[Ajax loops his arm through Zhongli’s, and he allows himself to be led toward the museum entrance, feeling a sense of lightness he hasn’t experienced in days. The younger man’s thoughtfulness and eagerness to share this experience with him is heartwarming. Zhongli’s smile widens, a genuine expression of happiness as he watches him produce two tickets, something he cherishes.]
You’ve thought of everything, [he murmurs appreciatively. He allows Ajax to lead the way inside, the cozy and educational atmosphere of the museum enveloping them. While many would find the building slightly stuffy, somehow, Zhongli finds it oh-so comforting.
When Ajax points to a setup reminiscent of the park table where they first met, Zhongli’s heart tugs with nostalgia at the memory of their first encounter.]
A rematch of the classics sounds perfect. I must warn you, though—I’ve been practicing. [His tone is playful, the challenge clear. He takes a seat at the table, gesturing for Ajax to join him.]
Shall we see who has the better strategy today?
You’ve thought of everything, [he murmurs appreciatively. He allows Ajax to lead the way inside, the cozy and educational atmosphere of the museum enveloping them. While many would find the building slightly stuffy, somehow, Zhongli finds it oh-so comforting.
When Ajax points to a setup reminiscent of the park table where they first met, Zhongli’s heart tugs with nostalgia at the memory of their first encounter.]
A rematch of the classics sounds perfect. I must warn you, though—I’ve been practicing. [His tone is playful, the challenge clear. He takes a seat at the table, gesturing for Ajax to join him.]
Shall we see who has the better strategy today?
[The corridor ahead looms, an expanse of shadows and secrets, where each step sends ripples through the shallow water, distorting their reflections into ghostly apparitions. The dripping sound a countdown to the inevitable confrontation.
Mind mapping out the intricacies of the building he had once known so well, every twist and turn is a journey through memories, both bitter and sweet, of the times he had spent molding Osial into what he had hoped would be a beacon for their cause. The irony that this very place would become a den of treachery is not lost on him.
With each step, he can feel Azhdaha’s unwavering presence behind him, a steadfast guardian. The warmth from their brief touch lingers, a brush of solidarity and protection. Zhongli’s thoughts drift thankfully to the countless moments they have shared, the battles fought side by side, the silent nights of strategy and camaraderie.
Osial’s ambition has twisted this place, turning it into a labyrinth of deceit. Zhongli knows that their path is fraught with danger, and that every corner could conceal another threat. Yet, he feels no fear, and part of it is due to his steadfast companion.]
This way, [Zhongli murmurs. He glances back at Azhdaha, the shadows casting their features in stark relief.] Stay close, [he says, the words holding a depth of meaning beyond the immediate danger. It is a plea, a command, and a promise all at once.]
Mind mapping out the intricacies of the building he had once known so well, every twist and turn is a journey through memories, both bitter and sweet, of the times he had spent molding Osial into what he had hoped would be a beacon for their cause. The irony that this very place would become a den of treachery is not lost on him.
With each step, he can feel Azhdaha’s unwavering presence behind him, a steadfast guardian. The warmth from their brief touch lingers, a brush of solidarity and protection. Zhongli’s thoughts drift thankfully to the countless moments they have shared, the battles fought side by side, the silent nights of strategy and camaraderie.
Osial’s ambition has twisted this place, turning it into a labyrinth of deceit. Zhongli knows that their path is fraught with danger, and that every corner could conceal another threat. Yet, he feels no fear, and part of it is due to his steadfast companion.]
This way, [Zhongli murmurs. He glances back at Azhdaha, the shadows casting their features in stark relief.] Stay close, [he says, the words holding a depth of meaning beyond the immediate danger. It is a plea, a command, and a promise all at once.]
Oh yeah?
[ Ajax's fingers squeeze the inside of Zhongli's elbow once, reluctant to let go of that closeness even if planned to re-barnacle himself as soon as he beat Zhongli's butt in this re-match. The only thing more thrilling that getting to be physically affectionate with Zhongli was challenging him after all.
So, Ajax slides into the opposite chair, posture straight and confident smirk at the ready. He threads his fingers together, stretching them out in front of him with a satisfying pop before flexing the feeling back into them. ]
Not as much as I have, I bet! So prepare to be toppled right off of that chess throne.
[ Ajax has seated himself at black again, so he not so patiently waits for Zhongli's first move, forefinger tapping against one of his rooks as he rests his chin in his other hand. ]
Winner gets a kiss from the loser.
[ Ajax's fingers squeeze the inside of Zhongli's elbow once, reluctant to let go of that closeness even if planned to re-barnacle himself as soon as he beat Zhongli's butt in this re-match. The only thing more thrilling that getting to be physically affectionate with Zhongli was challenging him after all.
So, Ajax slides into the opposite chair, posture straight and confident smirk at the ready. He threads his fingers together, stretching them out in front of him with a satisfying pop before flexing the feeling back into them. ]
Not as much as I have, I bet! So prepare to be toppled right off of that chess throne.
[ Ajax has seated himself at black again, so he not so patiently waits for Zhongli's first move, forefinger tapping against one of his rooks as he rests his chin in his other hand. ]
Winner gets a kiss from the loser.
Oh? [Zhongli’s golden eyes widen slightly at Ajax’s bold declaration, a faint blush creeping up his neck. The unexpected challenge leaves him momentarily speechless, but the playful glint in Ajax’s eyes soon has him recovering his composure.]
A kiss for the winner,[he murmurs, his tone both contemplative and amused. He chuckles softly, his gaze warm as he meets Ajax’s eyes.] I must say, I don't believe that constitutes a true penalty for the loser.
[Nevertheless, he makes the first move, positioning his pawn. Zhongli’s mind whirls with a mix of strategy and the tantalizing prospect of winning. The thought of the kiss, whether he wins or loses, adds a layer of excitement that he can’t quite shake.]
I’ll do my best to make this match memorable—your move.
A kiss for the winner,[he murmurs, his tone both contemplative and amused. He chuckles softly, his gaze warm as he meets Ajax’s eyes.] I must say, I don't believe that constitutes a true penalty for the loser.
[Nevertheless, he makes the first move, positioning his pawn. Zhongli’s mind whirls with a mix of strategy and the tantalizing prospect of winning. The thought of the kiss, whether he wins or loses, adds a layer of excitement that he can’t quite shake.]
I’ll do my best to make this match memorable—your move.
[ It really never gets old— seeing Zhongli smile and the flush of pink cross his skin. Ajax couldn't even claim it as a distraction tactic as Zhongli still moved his chess piece with the grace of a man who could very well kick his ass a second time.
But at least he'd have to fight for it! ]
Less of a penalty and more of a responsibility. They get to decide how much of this—
[ Ajax points to himself and then Zhongli before jumping one of his knights in front of the line of pawns. ]
—to escalate. Haha, though I already know where I'd kiss you~
[ Ajax winks. Salaciously. ]
Oh— maybe that should have been the winner's prize instead.
But at least he'd have to fight for it! ]
Less of a penalty and more of a responsibility. They get to decide how much of this—
[ Ajax points to himself and then Zhongli before jumping one of his knights in front of the line of pawns. ]
—to escalate. Haha, though I already know where I'd kiss you~
[ Ajax winks. Salaciously. ]
Oh— maybe that should have been the winner's prize instead.
[ The hallway grows dimmer and damper the farther the two progress until the main source of light is two old-fashioned lanterns lit around a sturdy sandalwood door. The end of the hallway and their ultimate destination. There's something else there, too— or rather someone else. A person that makes Azhdaha raise his weapon and train it on the figure even as she holds up two hands in a show of non-aggression.
Dark inky hair like the moonless ocean at midnight cascades down her shoulders. The ornamentation on her dress and silver jewelry draping over her form announces her rank within this place— for there was only one who held such a high position of trust in the Sea Serpent's court. Osial's confidant. His right hand and some would even say his better half.
Beisht raises her piercing blue eyes towards Zhongli, lips pursed in the hint of a frown in realization of just who had appeared upon her husband's doorstep. ]
"Rex Lapis."
[ There's an undertone of a hiss to her words as if even being cordial in such a dire situation taxes her patience before she remembers herself. ]
"To what we owe the honor of a visit from the Lord himself to our humble establishment—? Is what I would say under normal circumstances, but these are hardly normal times."
[ With a slight incline of her head: ]
"I wish to propose a contract."
Dark inky hair like the moonless ocean at midnight cascades down her shoulders. The ornamentation on her dress and silver jewelry draping over her form announces her rank within this place— for there was only one who held such a high position of trust in the Sea Serpent's court. Osial's confidant. His right hand and some would even say his better half.
Beisht raises her piercing blue eyes towards Zhongli, lips pursed in the hint of a frown in realization of just who had appeared upon her husband's doorstep. ]
"Rex Lapis."
[ There's an undertone of a hiss to her words as if even being cordial in such a dire situation taxes her patience before she remembers herself. ]
"To what we owe the honor of a visit from the Lord himself to our humble establishment—? Is what I would say under normal circumstances, but these are hardly normal times."
[ With a slight incline of her head: ]
"I wish to propose a contract."
[Zhongli's composure falters for a moment at Ajax’s unabashed boldness. The blatant flirtation catches him off guard, and he feels the heat rise in his cheeks, his fingers curling mid-motion. Clearing his throat, he tries to steady himself, a rueful smile playing on his lips as he meets Ajax's playful gaze.]
You're trying to distract me, [he says, his voice tinged with amusement nonetheless. He makes his next move, advancing another pawn. Steady. Unrelenting.
He looks up from the board, his eyes locking with Ajax’s, something glimmering in the gold.]
If that's your strategy, [he starts, his tone low to not disturb the environment of the museum,] then I wonder if you know where I'd like to be kissed.
You're trying to distract me, [he says, his voice tinged with amusement nonetheless. He makes his next move, advancing another pawn. Steady. Unrelenting.
He looks up from the board, his eyes locking with Ajax’s, something glimmering in the gold.]
If that's your strategy, [he starts, his tone low to not disturb the environment of the museum,] then I wonder if you know where I'd like to be kissed.
[Zhongli regards her with a calm, unflinching gaze, the weight of time and more time of experience settling over him like a mantle. The name she speaks—Rex Lapis—is a title he wears with the same gravity as the foundations he once shaped, the ease with which he shattered others. It is a name that carries the weight of the contracts he has upheld, the lives he has changed, and the hardships he has endured.
Allowing her words to hang in the air like a mist that has yet to settle, he studies her, noting the subtle tension in her posture, the way her gaze flickers between him and Azhdaha. She is calculating, weighing her options even as she speaks.]
A contract, [he repeats softly, the words rolling off his tongue with the practiced ease of one who has spoken them countless times. He steps forward, the shallow water rippling around his feet, the soft sound filling the silence. Zhongli’s expression remains inscrutable, a mask of granite that betrays nothing of the thoughts swirling beneath. A contract—how fitting, he muses, that in this moment of treachery and bloodshed, Beisht would turn to the very foundation upon which he has built his legacy, but how interesting that she'd pick that.] You know well the weight of such an offer, Beisht.
[His voice, calm, measured, an undercurrent of steel beneath the surface. The warmth he had reserved for Azhdaha moments before is gone, replaced by the cold, unyielding resolve of Rex Lapis. Zhongli’s gaze locks onto Beisht’s, his eyes like molten gold.] You stand before me, seeking to negotiate in a time when trust has been shattered and oaths have been broken. Why should I entertain such a proposal, when it comes from the very heart of betrayal?
[There is no anger in his tone, no bitterness—only the cold, hard logic of a man who has spent what felt like lifetimes navigating the treacherous waters of Liyue’s underworld. But beneath that logic lies something deeper, a flicker of the pain and disappointment that Osial’s betrayal has wrought. It is a scar that may never fully heal.
But Zhongli is not a man to be swayed by emotion alone. He is Rex Lapis, the arbiter of contracts, and the guardian of Liyue’s secrets. And he will hear Beisht’s proposal, weighing it with the same meticulous care he has applied to every contract before it. For in the world of shadows and blood, the value of a contract is determined not by the words alone, but by the truth that lies beneath them. And it is as Rex Lapis that he orders:]
Speak.
Allowing her words to hang in the air like a mist that has yet to settle, he studies her, noting the subtle tension in her posture, the way her gaze flickers between him and Azhdaha. She is calculating, weighing her options even as she speaks.]
A contract, [he repeats softly, the words rolling off his tongue with the practiced ease of one who has spoken them countless times. He steps forward, the shallow water rippling around his feet, the soft sound filling the silence. Zhongli’s expression remains inscrutable, a mask of granite that betrays nothing of the thoughts swirling beneath. A contract—how fitting, he muses, that in this moment of treachery and bloodshed, Beisht would turn to the very foundation upon which he has built his legacy, but how interesting that she'd pick that.] You know well the weight of such an offer, Beisht.
[His voice, calm, measured, an undercurrent of steel beneath the surface. The warmth he had reserved for Azhdaha moments before is gone, replaced by the cold, unyielding resolve of Rex Lapis. Zhongli’s gaze locks onto Beisht’s, his eyes like molten gold.] You stand before me, seeking to negotiate in a time when trust has been shattered and oaths have been broken. Why should I entertain such a proposal, when it comes from the very heart of betrayal?
[There is no anger in his tone, no bitterness—only the cold, hard logic of a man who has spent what felt like lifetimes navigating the treacherous waters of Liyue’s underworld. But beneath that logic lies something deeper, a flicker of the pain and disappointment that Osial’s betrayal has wrought. It is a scar that may never fully heal.
But Zhongli is not a man to be swayed by emotion alone. He is Rex Lapis, the arbiter of contracts, and the guardian of Liyue’s secrets. And he will hear Beisht’s proposal, weighing it with the same meticulous care he has applied to every contract before it. For in the world of shadows and blood, the value of a contract is determined not by the words alone, but by the truth that lies beneath them. And it is as Rex Lapis that he orders:]
Speak.
[ With not an ounce of shame: ]
I am 100% absolutely trying to distract you.
[ The other knight leaps the line of pawns, both now leading the charge. ]
But now you've turned the tables on me again.
[ He drops his tone equally low, tilting his head just slightly so that he might look at Zhongli through slightly lowered lashes. ]
I want to know. Of course, I do. Is that where this is headed? Haha! But asking is not nearly as fun as finding out for myself.
And I don't know if I want to deny myself that.
I am 100% absolutely trying to distract you.
[ The other knight leaps the line of pawns, both now leading the charge. ]
But now you've turned the tables on me again.
[ He drops his tone equally low, tilting his head just slightly so that he might look at Zhongli through slightly lowered lashes. ]
I want to know. Of course, I do. Is that where this is headed? Haha! But asking is not nearly as fun as finding out for myself.
And I don't know if I want to deny myself that.
[Ajax’s unabashed flirtation is met with a mix of intrigue and curiosity. The openness of his intentions is disarming. Perhaps the man across from him too, seeks a release, a distraction from the tensions that have been mounting during their weeks. The thought is strangely comforting, and Zhongli finds himself more receptive to his advances than he would have ever expected.
For anyone else, he would have set a boundary as tall and impenetrable as the skyscrapers he once ruled over. But with Ajax, he finds himself indulging in this playful little dance of theirs, allowing the younger man's exuberance to draw him in.]
Tut tut, [Zhongli chides softly, though there's no real reprimand in his voice. He finds Ajax amusing and even endearing, even as he makes his next move. His bishop glides across the board, sneaking past the two pieces he had advanced.] You’re quite the handful.
[He meets Ajax’s gaze again, his eyes warm with a mix of challenge and something softer.]
But I must admit, you make this game far more interesting than I anticipated.
For anyone else, he would have set a boundary as tall and impenetrable as the skyscrapers he once ruled over. But with Ajax, he finds himself indulging in this playful little dance of theirs, allowing the younger man's exuberance to draw him in.]
Tut tut, [Zhongli chides softly, though there's no real reprimand in his voice. He finds Ajax amusing and even endearing, even as he makes his next move. His bishop glides across the board, sneaking past the two pieces he had advanced.] You’re quite the handful.
[He meets Ajax’s gaze again, his eyes warm with a mix of challenge and something softer.]
But I must admit, you make this game far more interesting than I anticipated.
[ Beisht, like her husband, was a woman with a sharp tongue and a wicked pride. To swallow both now was taking visible effort as she kept her chin high under Rex Lapis's piercing gaze. ]
"I would not be standing here if I didn't understand the gravity of the situation. After all, the easier path might have been to lie in wait and take my chances with an ambush. These four walls were built with your hands, but they have been fortified with Osial's might. Perhaps we would have had the advantage."
[ She sighs low and long, shoulders slumping as she continues to keep that gaze, not cowed, but accepting. The extension of an olive branch. ]
"But what does that get the both of us? More bloodshed. More corpses.
I stand before you now because even at the heart of betrayal, you look to the future and not to the past. I beseech not your emotions, but your logic. A battle here will cost much to both sides, so let us find a common ground that we can both walk away from this. Allow me and mine to leave Liyue, exiled if you prefer, to lands more suited to us of the sea. And allow us to offer recompense for what you have already lost.
If you will entertain that, then speak I will to what is in the best interest of us both."
[ There's another brush of shoulder to Morax's right, feather-light and too small to be noticed by Beisht. It's both a warning and a vow. A warning that she is not to be trusted, for unlike Morax, Azhdaha's loyalty lay at the feet of a person, not of contracts. He did not forgive and he did not forget, and the sorrow that Osial had caused Morax was enough for him to chase the man to the ends of the earth so he could not harm Morax again. For Azhdaha knew the person behind the mask, perhaps more intimately than anyone else. How his voice held firm even when his heart was breaking.
And thus was the vow— to protect Morax in this den of serpents and all that he loved and stood for. To make sure that he returned to the rest of the Adepti safe and sound. But most importantly, to make sure that he would not make a decision that would only drive the knife of this betrayal in further, carving a wound so deep that it may never heal. ]
"I would not be standing here if I didn't understand the gravity of the situation. After all, the easier path might have been to lie in wait and take my chances with an ambush. These four walls were built with your hands, but they have been fortified with Osial's might. Perhaps we would have had the advantage."
[ She sighs low and long, shoulders slumping as she continues to keep that gaze, not cowed, but accepting. The extension of an olive branch. ]
"But what does that get the both of us? More bloodshed. More corpses.
I stand before you now because even at the heart of betrayal, you look to the future and not to the past. I beseech not your emotions, but your logic. A battle here will cost much to both sides, so let us find a common ground that we can both walk away from this. Allow me and mine to leave Liyue, exiled if you prefer, to lands more suited to us of the sea. And allow us to offer recompense for what you have already lost.
If you will entertain that, then speak I will to what is in the best interest of us both."
[ There's another brush of shoulder to Morax's right, feather-light and too small to be noticed by Beisht. It's both a warning and a vow. A warning that she is not to be trusted, for unlike Morax, Azhdaha's loyalty lay at the feet of a person, not of contracts. He did not forgive and he did not forget, and the sorrow that Osial had caused Morax was enough for him to chase the man to the ends of the earth so he could not harm Morax again. For Azhdaha knew the person behind the mask, perhaps more intimately than anyone else. How his voice held firm even when his heart was breaking.
And thus was the vow— to protect Morax in this den of serpents and all that he loved and stood for. To make sure that he returned to the rest of the Adepti safe and sound. But most importantly, to make sure that he would not make a decision that would only drive the knife of this betrayal in further, carving a wound so deep that it may never heal. ]
[ Ajax watches the bishop slide across the board behind his scouting knights and directly in front of his line of pawns. He could take it. It's right there. Oh, but this feels like a trap. This is definitely a feint and one that Ajax will regret if he doesn't handle it accordingly.
But a part of him wants to see Zhongli's trap unfold— watch this beautifully intelligent man weave his tangled web and then snatch victory right out of his clutches. He wants to watch the shock on Zhongli's face melt into something soft and proud as he tells Ajax how clever he is—
(Argh. When did his fantasies become like this??? He blames Zhongli. Yes, yes this is absolutely 100% Zhongli's fault—)
And Ajax takes the bishop with a flourish with one of his pawns. Let the dominoes fall where they will! ]
Of course I am! That's what you like about me.
I'm here to challenge you to play like you never had before. If you want something more traditional, then I'd just watch as you had a re-match against your memories.
But a part of him wants to see Zhongli's trap unfold— watch this beautifully intelligent man weave his tangled web and then snatch victory right out of his clutches. He wants to watch the shock on Zhongli's face melt into something soft and proud as he tells Ajax how clever he is—
(Argh. When did his fantasies become like this??? He blames Zhongli. Yes, yes this is absolutely 100% Zhongli's fault—)
And Ajax takes the bishop with a flourish with one of his pawns. Let the dominoes fall where they will! ]
Of course I am! That's what you like about me.
I'm here to challenge you to play like you never had before. If you want something more traditional, then I'd just watch as you had a re-match against your memories.
[To rule the syndicate means to quickly learn how to stand like a monolith, to wield the weight of the situation pressing down to guide him through conflict, through harsh decisions, through change. Her words echo through the corridor, her voice a strange mix of pride and desperation, a plea wrapped in the cold logic that she knows he values above all else. But for all of Beisht’s careful words, for all her calculated reasoning, Zhongli can see the cracks beneath her polished exterior, the strain of swallowing her pride in the face of the inevitable.
He listens, his expression as still as stone, but beneath the surface something churns. Her offer is tempting—an end to bloodshed, a way to avoid further loss. He is no stranger to the seductive pull of easy solutions. He has seen too many men, too many lives, twisted and broken by the pursuit of convenience over principle. And as much as he wishes to end this conflict without further bloodshed, he knows that some things cannot be bargained away.]
A common ground. [He allows the words to weigh and press down on all who stand in this narrow corridor.] What precedent would this set, Beisht, if I were to leave the blood that has already been shed alone? What would this teach those who look to us?
[His golden eyes bore into hers, searching for any flicker of hesitation, any sign that she might falter under the weight of what he is asking.]
Would Sky Bracer have wanted it? [As cold and sharp as the blade that took his life, cutting through the air with ruthless precision. It is a dagger he wields with purpose, but it is also a wound that bleeds within him, a pain he does not show but feels deep within his heart. Sometimes you need to hold a weapon by its blade to use it as a shield.
There is a brief, almost imperceptible pause—a moment where the cold logic of Rex Lapis wrestles with the deep well of emotion he keeps buried beneath his stony exterior. But before the silence can stretch too long, he feels it: a gentle brush of a shoulder against his own, a reminder of his unwavering presence at his side. A wall that will support him when he is most tired, who will propel him forward, who will shield him from the harshness of the world with arms, eyes, and words.
Zhongli allows himself a brief moment to draw strength from that touch, from the knowledge that he is not alone in this dark and treacherous place. Azhdaha, who has always been there, steadfast as the mountains, is a presence that grounds him, reminds him of the person behind the mask of Rex Lapis. The person who carries the weight of these decisions, the person who must live with the consequences of them.
He wonders, in the quiet corners of his mind, if Beisht has done this—brushed Osial’s arm as she set out in his defense, whispered reassurances into his ear, as Azhdaha has done for him countless times. Does she feel the same burden he feels? Does she understand the gravity of what she is asking?]
Does Osial know you are here? [Zhongli asks, but this time, whispered. Even so, while question is direct, and there is no softness in it, no warmth, it's still one that may change things. It is a demand for truth, for clarity. Because despite the offer she presents, despite the logic she tries to appeal to, Zhongli needs to know—needs to understand—whether this is an act of desperation or one of cunning.]
He listens, his expression as still as stone, but beneath the surface something churns. Her offer is tempting—an end to bloodshed, a way to avoid further loss. He is no stranger to the seductive pull of easy solutions. He has seen too many men, too many lives, twisted and broken by the pursuit of convenience over principle. And as much as he wishes to end this conflict without further bloodshed, he knows that some things cannot be bargained away.]
A common ground. [He allows the words to weigh and press down on all who stand in this narrow corridor.] What precedent would this set, Beisht, if I were to leave the blood that has already been shed alone? What would this teach those who look to us?
[His golden eyes bore into hers, searching for any flicker of hesitation, any sign that she might falter under the weight of what he is asking.]
Would Sky Bracer have wanted it? [As cold and sharp as the blade that took his life, cutting through the air with ruthless precision. It is a dagger he wields with purpose, but it is also a wound that bleeds within him, a pain he does not show but feels deep within his heart. Sometimes you need to hold a weapon by its blade to use it as a shield.
There is a brief, almost imperceptible pause—a moment where the cold logic of Rex Lapis wrestles with the deep well of emotion he keeps buried beneath his stony exterior. But before the silence can stretch too long, he feels it: a gentle brush of a shoulder against his own, a reminder of his unwavering presence at his side. A wall that will support him when he is most tired, who will propel him forward, who will shield him from the harshness of the world with arms, eyes, and words.
Zhongli allows himself a brief moment to draw strength from that touch, from the knowledge that he is not alone in this dark and treacherous place. Azhdaha, who has always been there, steadfast as the mountains, is a presence that grounds him, reminds him of the person behind the mask of Rex Lapis. The person who carries the weight of these decisions, the person who must live with the consequences of them.
He wonders, in the quiet corners of his mind, if Beisht has done this—brushed Osial’s arm as she set out in his defense, whispered reassurances into his ear, as Azhdaha has done for him countless times. Does she feel the same burden he feels? Does she understand the gravity of what she is asking?]
Does Osial know you are here? [Zhongli asks, but this time, whispered. Even so, while question is direct, and there is no softness in it, no warmth, it's still one that may change things. It is a demand for truth, for clarity. Because despite the offer she presents, despite the logic she tries to appeal to, Zhongli needs to know—needs to understand—whether this is an act of desperation or one of cunning.]
[Eyes narrowing slightly as he watches Ajax take the bishop with a pawn, a move that was expected, Zhongli still manages to find this somewhat delightful. The playful banter between them is a game within a game. Ajax’s boldness, his willingness to step into a potential trap, with the same steadfastness that he'd harness to try and get out of it, adds some warmth to Zhongli's chest.
For the first time in some days, Zhongli's shoulders lower, relaxing.]
You’re not wrong, [Zhongli admits, a soft smile tugging at his lips.] While I do lean more often towards caution, there's something refreshing to your unrelenting boldness.
[He makes his next move with the same measured grace, a knight shifting into position with a clear intent to protect his remaining pieces while setting up the next stage of his strategy. His gaze never leaves Ajax's, the warmth in his eyes deepening.]
But don’t think I’ll go easy on you just because of that. I intend to make you earn every victory, no matter how small.
For the first time in some days, Zhongli's shoulders lower, relaxing.]
You’re not wrong, [Zhongli admits, a soft smile tugging at his lips.] While I do lean more often towards caution, there's something refreshing to your unrelenting boldness.
[He makes his next move with the same measured grace, a knight shifting into position with a clear intent to protect his remaining pieces while setting up the next stage of his strategy. His gaze never leaves Ajax's, the warmth in his eyes deepening.]
But don’t think I’ll go easy on you just because of that. I intend to make you earn every victory, no matter how small.
[ For a few moments, Ajax gets lost in the warmth of Zhongli's expression, fingers fidgeting with his pieces as he can feel his cheeks warm from the prolonged staring. It's almost when he almost rolls one piece right off the board that he catches himself with a (slightly embarrassed) laugh: ]
Oh, Mister Zhongli! I'd be insulted if you went easy on me. That means you don't think I'm a worthy opponent. And I'm here to prove that I am the most worthy! The most challenging opponent that you have ever faced.
[ Ajax immediately goes on the offensive. With the pawn having taken Zhongli's bishop, that leaves one of his own bishops free to dash across the board, an alluring target with just one catch— if Zhongli takes the bishop then one of Ajax's knights will take whatever piece delivers the finishing blow.
His face is lowered, studying the board with a furrowed brow as if he is trying to divine Zhongli's next move by sheer force alone. And then oh so casually as if he was asking about the weather: ]
You seem a little hmmm— tense today. Rough week at the office? Or maybe—
[ He looks up with a scandalous gasp. ]
You were nervous about our second date!
Oh, Mister Zhongli! I'd be insulted if you went easy on me. That means you don't think I'm a worthy opponent. And I'm here to prove that I am the most worthy! The most challenging opponent that you have ever faced.
[ Ajax immediately goes on the offensive. With the pawn having taken Zhongli's bishop, that leaves one of his own bishops free to dash across the board, an alluring target with just one catch— if Zhongli takes the bishop then one of Ajax's knights will take whatever piece delivers the finishing blow.
His face is lowered, studying the board with a furrowed brow as if he is trying to divine Zhongli's next move by sheer force alone. And then oh so casually as if he was asking about the weather: ]
You seem a little hmmm— tense today. Rough week at the office? Or maybe—
[ He looks up with a scandalous gasp. ]
You were nervous about our second date!
[His fingers hover over the board, considering the pieces as he contemplates his next move. A smile touches his lips as he senses Ajax’s intent—a trap for a trap.
He glances up at the teasing tone, meeting his eyes with a calm yet mischievous glint.]
I suppose one could say that. The past week has been... quite eventful.
[His voice is smooth, revealing nothing of the actual chaos that has unfolded, as he's well-practiced in maintaining calm, in keeping his true thoughts and feelings concealed behind a mask of serenity. But here, with Ajax, the mask feels less necessary, more like an old habit than a necessity. So he does allow fatigue to slip into his voice, with a sigh.
Zhongli leans back slightly, feigning contemplation, the smirk growing as he continues, his voice lowering just a touch, almost conspiratorially.] But maybe I was nervous. Anticipating this, perhaps. Why wouldn't I?
He glances up at the teasing tone, meeting his eyes with a calm yet mischievous glint.]
I suppose one could say that. The past week has been... quite eventful.
[His voice is smooth, revealing nothing of the actual chaos that has unfolded, as he's well-practiced in maintaining calm, in keeping his true thoughts and feelings concealed behind a mask of serenity. But here, with Ajax, the mask feels less necessary, more like an old habit than a necessity. So he does allow fatigue to slip into his voice, with a sigh.
Zhongli leans back slightly, feigning contemplation, the smirk growing as he continues, his voice lowering just a touch, almost conspiratorially.] But maybe I was nervous. Anticipating this, perhaps. Why wouldn't I?
[ Ajax isn't sure what he was expecting Zhongli's answer to be. Maybe he had no expectations at all since the two of them were still dabbling at the edges of getting to know each other and feeling each other out in terms of push and pull. But the sigh is enough to motivate him into Ajax (actually did he really need any motivation at all) as he reaches his hand across the table, palm up in invitation. ]
Give me your hand.
I'll show you there is nothing to be nervous about.
[ The smile he provides in return is meant to be playful and reassuring even as he boasts: ]
Though I can understand why you might be! I'm quite the catch after all.
Give me your hand.
I'll show you there is nothing to be nervous about.
[ The smile he provides in return is meant to be playful and reassuring even as he boasts: ]
Though I can understand why you might be! I'm quite the catch after all.
[The younger man's playful demeanor has a way of disarming him, chipping away at his carefully crafted composure. For a moment, Zhongli hesitates, his fingers stilling over the chessboard. But then, curiosity—and perhaps something more—compels him to reach across the table, his hand resting gently in Ajax’s open palm.
His smile softens, the tension of the past week momentarily easing in the face of his effortless charm.]
I see... [Zhongli murmurs, his tone warm, laced with amusement.] Quite the catch, indeed.
[The steady warmth of Ajax’s hand is grounding, makes this moment feel more real, more personal. It’s a connection he didn’t realize he needed, perhaps. Would often tell himself such. While coaxing others into relying on each other.
Ah, he's a hypocrite, is he?]
And here I was, thinking it was you who might be a little nervous. [His voice is teasing now, his golden eyes glinting, even if with an underlying sincerity in his gaze.]
His smile softens, the tension of the past week momentarily easing in the face of his effortless charm.]
I see... [Zhongli murmurs, his tone warm, laced with amusement.] Quite the catch, indeed.
[The steady warmth of Ajax’s hand is grounding, makes this moment feel more real, more personal. It’s a connection he didn’t realize he needed, perhaps. Would often tell himself such. While coaxing others into relying on each other.
Ah, he's a hypocrite, is he?]
And here I was, thinking it was you who might be a little nervous. [His voice is teasing now, his golden eyes glinting, even if with an underlying sincerity in his gaze.]
[ A faux affronted gasp: ]
Me? Nervous? About what? That I might do something embarrassing in front of this mysterious handsome and intelligent person who I am trying so very hard to impress. Haha, nothing to be nervous about at all!
[ Ajax clasps Zhongli's hand in both of his, turning it to also face palm up as he hunches over across the chess board to peer down at it with a thoughtful hum. ]
But let's see— let's see—
[ He trails a finger across the length of Zhongli's open palm. ]
Oh look here. A strong long life line. That's good!
[ If Zhongli knows anything about palm reading (or even anything about Ajax), that isn't where the lifeline is supposed to be, but it's also the longest line on Zhongli's palm. So for Ajax's intents and purposes, it might as well be as his finger moves to skim over an adjacent line. ]
And the second longest one— oh, that's your work line. It's pretty consistently deep. Are you sure you don't need a vacation? Or maybe a little relaxation.
[ Ajax tilts his head up just enough to give a salacious wink before turning his attention back to Zhongli's palm. ]
Hmmm. And now where is it? Where is it... Ah!
[ His smile widens, a telltale sign that he is teasing. ]
Your love line. It starts late, but looks to be unbroken after that. Lucky you!
Me? Nervous? About what? That I might do something embarrassing in front of this mysterious handsome and intelligent person who I am trying so very hard to impress. Haha, nothing to be nervous about at all!
[ Ajax clasps Zhongli's hand in both of his, turning it to also face palm up as he hunches over across the chess board to peer down at it with a thoughtful hum. ]
But let's see— let's see—
[ He trails a finger across the length of Zhongli's open palm. ]
Oh look here. A strong long life line. That's good!
[ If Zhongli knows anything about palm reading (or even anything about Ajax), that isn't where the lifeline is supposed to be, but it's also the longest line on Zhongli's palm. So for Ajax's intents and purposes, it might as well be as his finger moves to skim over an adjacent line. ]
And the second longest one— oh, that's your work line. It's pretty consistently deep. Are you sure you don't need a vacation? Or maybe a little relaxation.
[ Ajax tilts his head up just enough to give a salacious wink before turning his attention back to Zhongli's palm. ]
Hmmm. And now where is it? Where is it... Ah!
[ His smile widens, a telltale sign that he is teasing. ]
Your love line. It starts late, but looks to be unbroken after that. Lucky you!
[Zhongli's golden eyes gleam with amusement as Ajax traces lines across his palm, the warmth of his touch bringing an unexpected comfort. Though he knows the true lines of palm reading from countless encounters with fortune-tellers within the underworld, who often used the craft as a cover for their operations, he finds himself captivated by the way Ajax weaves his own playful interpretation, with 'ah's and 'ooh's and thoughtful nods.
His eyebrows arch in surprise at the mention of the "work line", causing him to chuckle softly.] A vacation? [He hums thoughtfully, leaning in slightly as his smile widens.] Perhaps I do need it. Do you have any suggestions?
[Zhongli lowers his voice, his smile becoming a touch more flirtatious.] Starting late… quite curious. Does the line say if I should wait longer or if it's already started?
His eyebrows arch in surprise at the mention of the "work line", causing him to chuckle softly.] A vacation? [He hums thoughtfully, leaning in slightly as his smile widens.] Perhaps I do need it. Do you have any suggestions?
[Zhongli lowers his voice, his smile becoming a touch more flirtatious.] Starting late… quite curious. Does the line say if I should wait longer or if it's already started?
[ Ajax almost almost drops Zhongli hand as his instinct is to put his own hand to his face to hide the red flush that certainly is creeping across his cheeks and up his ears. Oh, casual Zhongli was already enough to make the butterflies in his stomach flutter about to distraction. So flirtatious Zhongli was like unleashing a tornado. How was anyone allowed to be that handsome and have a voice that drop kicked his mind straight in the gutter?
(How was this man still even on the market?)
Ajax clears his throat, thumb now tracing along one of those lines along his palm absently. ]
Mister Zhongli~ I can't give away all my secrets or the mysteries of the universe all in one go. That would be irresponsible.
But worry not. I can answer both of those questions for the low low price of a third date. How does that sound?
(How was this man still even on the market?)
Ajax clears his throat, thumb now tracing along one of those lines along his palm absently. ]
Mister Zhongli~ I can't give away all my secrets or the mysteries of the universe all in one go. That would be irresponsible.
But worry not. I can answer both of those questions for the low low price of a third date. How does that sound?
[The sight of Ajax's flushed cheeks and the sudden shift in his demeanor is akin to witnessing amber catching the last rays of sunset in Zhongli’s chest. There's something undeniably charming about Ajax's transparency—the way his emotions play so freely on his face. It’s disarming, and though he’s well-versed in the art of calculated conversation, the sincerity pulls him in further, making him want to continue. So he hums softly, the amusement never leaving his eyes as Ajax traces absent patterns on his palm. He leans in just a touch closer, though they do have a table between them.]
A third date, you say? [He tilts his head as he studies the younger man.] I have a feeling that time spent with you should be very highly valued, but it's one price I'm very willing to meet.
I must admit, though, I’m rather intrigued by these secrets of yours. [He smiles, his tone soft but laced with curiosity.] I look forward to unravelling them.
[His free hand moves to rest on top of Ajax's, a not-so subtle gesture of reciprocation, but one that he is at ease with doing. No masks, no walls—just two people, enjoying each other's company.]
But for now, [he continues, the playfulness returning as he glances back at the chessboard, though he hasn't let go of Ajax's hand. Perhaps this was exactly what he needed after this hellish week?] I believe it's still your move, isn’t it?
A third date, you say? [He tilts his head as he studies the younger man.] I have a feeling that time spent with you should be very highly valued, but it's one price I'm very willing to meet.
I must admit, though, I’m rather intrigued by these secrets of yours. [He smiles, his tone soft but laced with curiosity.] I look forward to unravelling them.
[His free hand moves to rest on top of Ajax's, a not-so subtle gesture of reciprocation, but one that he is at ease with doing. No masks, no walls—just two people, enjoying each other's company.]
But for now, [he continues, the playfulness returning as he glances back at the chessboard, though he hasn't let go of Ajax's hand. Perhaps this was exactly what he needed after this hellish week?] I believe it's still your move, isn’t it?
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