hydrangeabloom | Mafia AU

[Ajax's expression subtly changing into disappointment and the bold move to snatch the bishop makes Zhongli lean his chin on the heel of his palm, interested. Spirited competitiveness, he'd call it, though he'd also wonder how much of it is actual recklessness or confidence. Is Ajax that skilled a chess player? Or just someone who's enthusiastic for matches like these? It's endearing to witness, nonetheless.

In the tranquil setting of the park, Zhongli's gaze nudges a pawn into movement, a slow push on a gloved finger, making it stealthily advance past the line of Ajax's offense, hinting a threat towards the king at the back. He wonders about the moves Ajax has in mind, if at all or if he's playing by ear (he's seen wonderful responses coming from ad-libs, after all). Yet, he is busy jotting something down, keeping it concealed from Zhongli's eyes, and he can't help but be curious at that boyish grin.]

I'm intrigued, [He arches his eyebrows with a thoughtful gaze. There's a certain charm in the mystery, but Zhongli does comply with his promises.] Very well, [he concedes, his tone filled with playful agreement, tucking the newspaper onto a side where an empty thermos sits, to make it not fly away with the breeze.] I promise not to peek.

[Which reminds him.] Perhaps next time we can do this while I still have some tea with me. I'll make sure to brew some for you.

Next time?

[ It is Narwhal's tail that is wagging, but if Ajax were also a canine companion, he would be doing the same. There's a giddy excitement in the way he moves his queen out of immediate harm's way (so perhaps not completely reckless) unbothered by Zhongli's slow and steady advance. Ajax would always lose a game of attrition so there is no need to defend for it. That just means his next offensive would have to be grander still to overcome Zhongli's meticulous planning.

Still the grin on his face is more due to the prospect of getting to meet Zhongli-xiansheng a second time. Ajax's dedication to his work and his family alone made finding time for other commitments rather difficult. Never mind his whirlwind of a personality that demanded all of the other person's attention one moment and then disappearing for days on end without word the next.

Perhaps if he can reign that in for this one person, maybe he could enjoy the facade of a normal life— even for a few scant hours. ]

Ah, I bet xiansheng makes a perfect cup of tea. I can't wait to try it.

But then I need to bring something for you, too! What does xiansheng like?

[Ah, how novel, he chuckles, appreciating the enthusiasm Ajax brings to the idea of a new encounter. It's been quite a while that someone has been this enthusiastic about seeing him again.]

A box of shortbread cookies would be a delightful addition, [he muses, his gaze thoughtful as he nudges the pawn yet again.] There's a charming bakery not far from here, tucked away on a quaint street called Sunlit Lane. They craft the most exquisite shortbread cookies, with a perfect balance of sweetness and buttery richness. If you do insist on bringing something, that would be a splendid choice to go with my tea.

[Zhongli leans back, still maintaining his attention on the chessboard. The pieces are now poised in a delicate dance, and he wonders how Ajax will respond to his next move. The subtle breeze rustles the leaves overhead, creating a serene ambiance in the park, and Zhongli finds himself genuinely looking forward to the next chess match and the shared moments that come with it.] Of course, I'd just be happy with playing a game with you again.

[ If Ajax feels a little bit warm at the compliment, it has to be due to the Liyue heat and humidity. Even years since moving here, that was the one thing he couldn't get used to after growing up on the frozen lakes and snowy plains of Snezhaya. Yep. That has to be it. That definitely has to be it. ]

Of course you do~ I'm a gracious victor and accept, no —encourage all challengers to come take their title back. All the more fun for me!

[ Says the man down multiple named pieces on the board and with his queen gallivanting off in enemy territory. But how is supposed to concentrate on chess when he now has a mission^TM to accomplish.

Shortbread cookies. Shortbread cookies. There was no way that Ajax was not going to be stopping by that bakery after this and testing out these cookies for himself. What would be the more feasible option in the long run, he wonders. Always having said cookies on hand in case he ran into Zhongli-xiansheng (Teucer would love that for sure if he got to treat himself to all the "leftovers"), or attempting to bake an even better shortbread cookie than those who have been honing the craft for years.

Decisions. Decisions. ]

Haha, I'll be sure to bring some next time then. I was not expecting xiansheng to have that kind of a sweet tooth. There's a phrase for that from Inazuma, I think. Wait, wait— it'll come to me.

[ He snaps his fingers ]

That's it!

Gap moe.

[Zhongli realizes he's been chuckling behind his gloved fingers quite a lot when he finds that the leather on his forefinger's knuckle is warmer than it used to be when he plays. Canting his head low, he sees no reason to stop smiling, instead embracing the moment, especially when Narwhal comes back for yet again more pets, nudging his little nose under Zhongli's palm and tilting his head into the touch.

It's been a moment since he's had fun like this. How delightful.

Arching his eyebrows, admiring Ajax's confident claim that he may still win, grants him to nod. I see. I look forward to our rematch, then.

His eyebrows do stay up when he hears the Inazuman expression.] I see. Well. Shortbread cookies, when made just right, possess a subtle sweetness that complements the robustness of the tea I usually brew. The richness of the butter enhances the tea's warm florals, while the crumbly texture allows the flavors to intermingle effortlessly on the palate. It elevates both experiences.

[Ah, this perhaps is the first time he rants about something, so, much in a manner of explaining and not excusing himself, he looks down at the puppy and boops its snout.] I am quite particular about a few things. [Zhongli tilts his head slightly, observing Ajax with genuine curiosity.] Do I strike you as someone who doesn't appreciate sweets?

[ Ajax listens to Zhongli's entire explanation, one hand cupped under his chin as if he is absolutely riveted to hear about the nuances of the perfect shortbread cookies (that's because he is). How does such a pure person even exist in today's modern age? ]

Not at all. Though I wouldn't be surprised if you told me you didn't add sweetener to your tea.

I was just thinking you'd be the kind of guy who likes—

[ Ajax puts a finger to his chin as he tries to think of some the names of the food at the local bakery next to his house. While it's true that he had enough handle of the Liyue language to blend in enough outside of a slight rural Snezhnayan accent, the finer points of the culture were still things that he was getting used to. And that included some of the local specialties. ]

Mooncakes with salted egg custard and lotus paste. Yanno, something refined and cultural that has been passed down from generation to generation. Shortbread cookies is just so cute in comparison.

It's almost like you're letting me in on a secret guilty pleasure.

[Zhongli finds himself utterly delighted by Ajax's knowledge of traditional delicacies. It's a rare moment of being seen, truly seen, by someone so sharp and earnest despite his role in other moments. He hadn't expected someone to grasp the cultural nuances and appreciate them, especially not so soon in their acquaintance.

Warmth evident in his eyes as he listens to Ajax's musings, and Zhongli can't help but appreciate the sentiment behind the choice of a delicacy such as Mooncakes with lotus paste.]

You have a keen understanding of local cuisine. I'm impressed. [Zhongli remarks.] Mooncakes are indeed a wonderful choice, albeit I would rather prefer them after a full meal.

[The mention of shortbread cookies being "cute" in comparison elicits a soft chuckle, his eyes cast low in something that could be mistaken as bashfulness. He hadn't thought of them in such terms, he's surprised. Cute is not usually something associated with a dragon lord of a family.

As the chessboard sits patiently, waiting for the next move, Zhongli's curiosity sparks another question.] Do you have a sweet tooth, Ajax? Is there a particular dish or treat that holds a special place in your culinary preferences?

[ Oh right! The game, the game. Ajax's eyes flicker over to the advancing pawn, giving it just the briefest of glances. It could cross the threshold and become much more powerful, but as it was— it just wasn't worth his time. And how much more fun would it be if Zhongli had two queens on the board for Ajax to battle? No time to waste on the weak until they were strong. So instead Ajax (after ensuring the queen is safe this round) moves forward a pawn of his own on the opposite side of the board. ]

Sweet tooth? Maybe! Mama always called me the human garbage disposal because I'd eat anything in front of me. So if you count sweets in that, then yeah. The real sweet lover is my littlest brother. His teeth are all gonna fall out by the time he reaches secondary school at this rate. And he's terrible at eating his vegetables.

[ Says Ajax the enabling older brother who puts in double the amount of sugar in Teucer's blini if he even gets a hint of begging puppy dog eyes.

Underneath the table, Narwhal chuffs in agreement, finally settling down directly on top of Zhongli's shoes and curled slightly around his ankles. ]

[Zhongli's expression remains warm and attentive, a younger brother with a penchant for sweets, brings a gentle smile to Zhongli's lips. It's a scene he can appreciate, a familial bond, and Ajax's admission about his mother prompts him to laugh.]

Ah, the indulgence in sweets is a common vice, [Zhongli muses with a twinkle in his eyes.] It's not uncommon for younger siblings to have a penchant for sugary treats.

[Zhongli contemplates Ajax's move on the chessboard, recognizing the lack of strategy in choosing to advance a pawn. With Narwhal settled comfortably under the table, Zhongli feels a certain warmth radiating from the small dog, it elicits a fond smile. It seems the puppy has chosen to make himself at home, and Zhongli appreciates the companionship.]

And it seems as though you're a very indulging brother, Ajax. [He nudges yet again the pawn.]

[ Ajax looks all around as if someone is going to jump out of the bushes to ambush him and places a finger to his lips. ]

Shhhhh. Shhhhhhhh.

You can't just go around saying that. I have a reputation to maintain. And if Teucer ever finds out that I'm weak to his puppy dog eyes, I'm a goner. Rest in peace, dear Ajax, we barely knew ye!

[ He ends his exclamation with a dramatic slumping over the chess table, careful to do it on his side so that he doesn't actually disturb any of the pieces. Which means he is right now about eye level with Zhongli's freshly moved pawn.

Oh? Is it a race now? A race to see who can get the second queen on the field. (No, it is not a race. Nor is that how any sane person would play chess. And yet. A n d yet—) Not even bothering to sit up straight, Ajax moves his pawn one more step forward as if it wasn't already predestined that Zhongli would reach the other end of the board before he did. ]

You have any siblings, Xiansheng? If I had to guess, you definitely have an older brother or only child vibe.

[The theatrics and playful banter only add to the enjoyment of their encounter. It's a refreshing change from the usual composed and stoic demeanour that is called for in most of his situations.]

Ah, my apologies for the breach of secrecy, [Zhongli responds, his tone carrying a hint of mischief.] The puppy dog eyes are indeed a very powerful weapon. Please rest assured that your secret is safe with me, Ajax.

[As Ajax slumps over the chess table, Zhongli observes the advancing pawn, realizing that perhaps it has become a competition to bring out the second queen. He hadn't thought of that before, so he's somewhat surprised that Ajax would try and make things difficult for him.

Or, perhaps not.]

A keen observation. [He concedes.] I do indeed have siblings, although not bound by blood. I am the eldest of seven.

We are not close, however. [Their family has a rather unconventional way of establishing things, and each of them has responsibilities tied to a certain area of the world. He wonders if he should feel lonely about that.] What does an older sibling look like, in your eyes?

[ Ajax lifts his head off the table at that, though he's still half slumped over the chessboard. ]

Seven? And not by blood.

[ He lets out a low long whistle at that. While his own family was one shy of that many, they had all been born from the same parents. And while not all the siblings were close to each other (he barely heard from the older siblings nowadays), he himself could not manage being distanced from his adorable younger siblings. ...He'd like to think that would hold true even if they weren't bound by blood. ]

That's so many. Well, I mean— it's more normal back in my hometown because larger families meant more hands to help out. But that's rather a lot when adoption is involved.

[ There's a slight pause as if Ajax is actually wondering if a question is too personal. ]

You really not close with any of them?

[ Guess not. Looks like curiosity won out in the end though he does look a bit cautious. Like he's ready to do... something should the conversation start veering toward something unpleasant. ]

[Zhongli recognizes the curiosity in Ajax's gaze, and he contemplates how much to share about his unconventional family situation. He decides to offer a glimpse into his relationships with his supposed siblings.]

Indeed, seven is a significant number. Each of my siblings is very busy and working in different countries. They have plenty of responsibilities, overseeing and managing certain affairs, [Zhongli explains, choosing his words carefully.] While we grew together in the same household, our interactions are infrequent. My brother in Mondstadt tends to visit from time to time, though we rarely keep in touch otherwise. When we do, it often signals something...unsettling.

[Zhongli's tone carries a touch of melancholy, a hidden depth beneath the composed exterior. He gazes at the chessboard, contemplating the intricacies of the pieces and the unspoken complexities of his connections to his other siblings. Zhongli adds, casting a thoughtful look at Ajax. He wonders how much of this unconventional family structure makes sense to someone outside its enigmatic folds.]

[ Seven estranged siblings not bound by blood, one in every nation, and their coming together usually meant something terrible was happening.

Oh noooooooo.

Was Zhongli a part of a cult? Something else? One red flag in this otherwise nearly perfect encounter. Ah well. That means that Ajax could feel a little less guilty about being who he was when hanging out with Zhongli (not that he felt that guilty in the first place). He'd been masterful at keeping his work life and personal life separate that not even the other Harbingers knew exactly where his family lived. No need to be too concerned that he wouldn't extend the same care to Zhongli.

Though—

How does one ask if someone's in a cult without making it awkward? This is terrible first meeting material. ]

Can't say that I relate that much, and it sounds quite complicated.

But are you okay with it?

[ The attempt was to be understanding but— once it's left his mouth, Ajax realizes it's kind of a strange question. What can you do if you don't get along with your family? It's not like he ever saw eye to eye with his papa again after the incident. ]

[Zhongli considers Ajax's reaction, noting the slight shift in the atmosphere as the revelation about his unconventional family situation hangs in the air. It's a subject he doesn't delve into often, even within the confines of his enigmatic world. Ajax's question, while seemingly simple, carries a depth of understanding, and Zhongli appreciates the genuine concern behind it.]

It is a complicated arrangement, as you say,[Zhongli responds, his gaze shifting from the chessboard to Ajax. There's a moment of contemplative silence, during which he casts his eyes downward to Narwhal warming the leather of his shoes with each cozy breath. It's a sight that brings a gentle smile to Zhongli's lips, a subtle reminder of the simple joys found in the company of a steadfast companion.] I have come to terms with it. [The duty and responsibility of carrying a family name often entail sacrifices, and the ties that bind them are not easily severed.

And it was with such a long, arduous plan that he did manage to step away. Hopefully, the others will succeed.

However, Ajax's follow-up question holds a depth that prompts Zhongli to pause, and for a moment, he contemplates his response. The air seems to hang heavy with unspoken words, and Zhongli chooses honesty.]

If you'll allow me to be completely honest, there are moments when I miss the times when we'd sit down and drink wine together,[Zhongli confesses, his gaze distant for a fleeting moment. Osmanthus wine, to be precise. A fragrant, sweet nectar that used to fill the air as they discussed matters of significance or nothing at all.

Perhaps that's what real families did, or so they'd like to say.

Now, all that remains are memories. Zhongli has become quite adept at preserving them, a skill that can be both a blessing and a curse.

He chuckles, though.] Perhaps this could be a conversation to delve deeper into when we have some, as well.

A tea date and a wine date?

[ Ajax beams with just how wide he is smiling. The thought of securing not one more encounter but two with this man— and Zhongli hadn't even opened up the newspaper yet to find Ajax's number. This must be his lucky day! Truly unbelievable. Ah, maybe he should say a quick thanks to one of those dusty old archons (there was a goddess of love if he recalled correctly) for his good fortune. It certainly couldn't hurt. ]

Xiansheng is spoiling me, but I'm not complaining. I'll drink almost anything if I get to enjoy your company while doing so.

And then I can hear more about your family. They sound interesting, yeah? And like you've been through a lot together. Oh oh, I'll bring a picture of mine, too! Then we can swap stories.

[ Ajax gets a faraway look in his eyes as well, but not because he is dwelling on the past, no. Quite the opposite. His mind is already buzzing with what future outings might look like between the two of them. Would he maybe get a chance to meet Zhongli's dog someday, too? The possibilities are simply endless. ]

You honor me with your kind words, [bowing his head, somewhat abashed, but measuredly so, Zhongli replies with a nod, and a genuine smile. Sharing stories and perhaps glimpses of their respective families stirs an unexpected warmth in Zhongli's heart. It's a side of his life he rarely discusses, for obvious reasons, and the prospect of allowing someone into that guarded space feels oddly comforting. There is no harm in sharing how one of his youngest prefers dandelion to osmanthus wine, and how they often argue about the production and qualities of both beverages or how one of his sisters has recently come back from a very long meditation retreat. Surely, those details are alright to disclose.] But do let me know if I'm being too forward. I am enjoying your company and would like us to meet again, truly.

I would be interested in hearing about your family, [Zhongli admits, his gaze softening. If anything, because Childe sounds absolutely smitten by them.] Are you not the eldest, then?

[ The teasing might be a little overboard, but Ajax doesn't care as long as he gets to see each and every one of Zhongli's adorable expressions. ]

Not forward at all, Xiansheng. I'd like to meet with you again, too.

[ Ajax finally sits up straight again when asked about his own family, finger pressed to his chin as he tries to best describe his situation. It was pretty standard for Snezhnayans to live with one's parents until marriage even if that wasn't exactly Ajax's situation (being the bread winner of the family) but hopefully the stereotype would carry through. And really, everything else fell nicely in line regarding why many families picked up their bags to live in one of the grandest trade and cultural hubs of Teyvat. ]

I'm the middle child of six kids. My older sister and older brother are already married and still live back in Snezhnaya. My parents, myself, and the three little ones moved here because of my work mostly. But the climate is much better for papa as well. He's a retired adventurer, but some of those old injuries flare up sometimes, you know. It's good for the kids anyway— to see more of the world. The fishing town we grew up was fairly small and remote. Wouldn't have given them nearly as many opportunities as being educated in the Harbor.

[One tends to say Zhongli is long-winded now and then. Well, often. He's a passionate and particular individual. Once he captures something he finds interest in, he'll delve into it to learn all of its intricacies and finds himself so happy to share that wealth of knowledge with anyone who wishes to listen. He has found, throughout his life, that most people tend to be like that.

Ajax, now, is doing the same. And he couldn't enjoy it more.] I see. It must be quite the experience, navigating between the older and younger siblings. I assume it has its own set of challenges and joys. [He does shrug after that thought.] Or rather, I can tell my siblings do enjoy taunting their elders at the very least.

It's heartening to hear that the climate here is better for your father. [He contemplates the changes that come with such a move. Liyue is a city of contrasts but very strong traditions.] How did the little ones adapt to the move? [Adjusting to a new environment, making new friends, releasing what they thought would be there forever may not be an easy transition.]

Pretty well, I'd say after we got through that messy first period where Anton kept asking if people from Liyue were made of rocks and Teucer was clever enough to ditch us in the city streets. That kid! I love him to pieces but if he ends up in one more abandoned factory, I swear my hair's gonna go white before I hit 30.

[ But Ajax still laughs good naturedly all the same, clearly looking back on such antics with nothing but fondness. He taps his king with his pointer finger, grin still stretched across his face. ]

Taunting their elders, huh? As the eldest, does that mean you take the brunt of that, xiansheng?

[ Ajax is sure that a flustered Zhongli would be an adorable sight. ]

[Zhongli leans in attentively as Ajax recounts the little ones' misadventures in Liyue. He listens with interest and amusement as Ajax describes the playful mischief of the youngsters as they explore the city streets, trying to find their place in their new surroundings. Zhongli lets out a subtle chuckle, imagining the scene in his mind's eye.]

It sounds like they've had quite the adventure settling into Liyue. But that's not necessarily a bad thing. Children need to explore and experience new things.

[Ajax mentions the taunting that his younger siblings have been doing lately, and Zhongli responds with a playful glint in his eyes as he makes his move on the chessboard.] I believe it's only natural for younger siblings to test our limits and patience. After all, they're learning from us just as much as we're learning from them. And it's our responsibility to teach them about resilience and commitment.

[The chessboard now reflects Zhongli's long strategic plan, and he declares,] Check. [He offers a warm laugh, the sound echoing in the tranquil park setting.] It seems like they're keeping you on your toes. But I have faith that you'll be able to handle it. Perhaps Teucer has learned his lesson about exploring abandoned factories?

[ Limits and patience. Ugh. Some of Ajax's least favorite things even if he had the discipline to invoke them perfectly should the situation called for it. Actually, waiting for a mark was a lot like ice fishing in a way, if he thought about it. Just waiting for that exact right moment for the fish to bite. ]

That's definitely something that the eldest would say. I can almost hear—

[ There's a long pause after Zhongli announces 'check', Ajax barely hearing him continue to speak as he stares at the piece threatening his king and his queen halfway across the board doing whatever it is queens do when their not at home. With mostly pawns left to defend the kingdom, there's not much hope left of keeping Zhongli's forces at bay until reinforcements can return. Especially not with Zhongli's pawn about to reach the end of the board.

Oopsie.

Looks like he was a little too aggressive and reckless.

Again.

And just like the graceful winner Ajax Childe Tartaglia is known to be: ]

Hey!

When did you get that close to my king?

[ The answer being just this turn, but well— frustrations are always better out than in. ]

[Zhongli's chuckle grows a touch heartier as he observes Ajax's reaction to the sudden revelation on the chessboard. Ah, if there's anything he does enjoy, is how lively Ajax's reactions are. One would think it's open, perhaps too open, vulnerabilities exposed for all to see. But then again, isn't that the greatest display of strength?]

Just this turn, [Zhongli responds with a twinkle in his eyes,] The intricacies of chess can be quite deceptive, don't you think?

[Zhongli looks at the board, studying the layout of the remaining pieces. Despite the playful tone, there's a certain satisfaction in the way he contemplates the strategic elements of their game.]

It seems you find yourself in a challenging situation. How do you plan to navigate through this predicament, Ajax? The game is still yours to play.

[ With much less bravado, Ajax's hand hovers over the chessboard, eyes darting this way and that as he weighs the options available to him. He could move the king? But to what end — just to be put in check the next round? The same could be said for putting a flimsy pawn sacrifice in the way, useless but for the brief respite it gives and oh, does Ajax hate involving (or relying on) the weak to finish the job. And with no other way to subdue the attacking piece coming for his king—

Ah. Yes. Yes. That is what'll he do.

Ajax moves his queen with a flourish to soundly take Zhongli's queen as his last act of defiance. It also leaves his own king wholly unprotected. ]

A true leader does not need to hide behind their subjects. If a pawn is a pawn and a knight is a knight, then the leader should be the strongest of them all — be it might, wit or something else.

[ That's not how chess works at all! But that is how Ajax is closing this particular match, it seems.

He crosses his arms defiantly and waits for Zhongli to make his next move. ]

Don't you agree, Mr. Zhongli?

Mafia AU

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1/2

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