hydrangeabloom | Mafia AU

[ It's true. There is not even the hint of alcohol on Ajax's breath as he takes another stumbling step that is still distinctly away from the bustle of the current venue. There's a tenseness to his shoulders, a twitch of his eye as he glances to his left every few seconds (trying to catch a few words from his ear piece just in case Morax does show up and he has to make another hasty return to his perch. If only Katya would stop lecturing him between updates. It's not like he can reply right now!)

When Ajax finally catches Zhongli's eyes, the concern he himself feels bubbling up in that golden gaze, he heaves a little sigh. His shoulders slump as he runs a hand through his hair, looking down for a moment. ]

Yeah. I mean, yeah. I think so.

Just caught me by surprise, Xiansheng. I mean, sure Liyue is mostly safe and all—

[ As safe as any large bustling center of commerce could be under the Qixing's watchful eye.

(Rex Lapis's too though no one is going to admit that.) ]

It's dark and you're by yourself on a mostly empty street. Just doesn't sit right me with s'all.

[ He straightens up a bit, still trying to lead Zhongli away. ]

Call it older brother instincts or something.

[Zhongli scrutinizes the tension in Ajax's shoulders, the subtle twitches in his eye, ripples of unease in a placid pond. A night that should be serene is threaded with a disquiet that clings to the air. As Ajax runs his fingers through his hair, Zhongli catches a glimpse of vulnerability, a fleeting shadow cast by the city's nocturnal embrace.

He nods, his gaze unwavering, understanding the fears that seem to have rattled so much. After all, how many times have those monsters that Ajax seems to be so nervous about taken his own shape?] I understand your concern, Ajax. But rest assured, I've traversed these streets for years. Liyue holds no secrets from me. [He mutters with a low hum, echoing through the narrow street like an ancient melody resonating with the city's heartbeat.

Ajax guides Zhongli away from the clamor of the venue's door, his steps echoing into the silence until the soles of their shoes echo against the walls. As Ajax straightens, Zhongli's hand reaches out, a sculptor's touch, to gently reshape the dishevelled copper strands that still glimmer fire against the distant warm lanterns.]

Though I must admit, the notion of me being your younger brother is quite amusing, [he says, hoping to ease his stress.]

[ Yeah. Yeah, that tracks. Being a funeral parlor consultant, Zhongli had probably seen every grisly and unexpected way to pass on from this world to the next. The city of Liyue probably did keep no secrets from him. And he probably didn't even fear death in the slightest to boot. But that just compounded Childe's interest in getting him as far away from here as possible.

(Didn't he know that some of the most dangerous people in Liyue were congregating a handful of streets over?! Oh... Actually, right. Zhongli probably doesn't have the foggiest idea.)

There's a hint of hesitation when Zhongli reaches out to brush back his hair. Tartaglia had been careful to keep Zhongli constantly on his right side to not ask about the ear piece that was nestled in the opposite ear. There was no way he was going to explain that away as air buds or anything similar. (Or maybe he could. This was a man who read a physical newspaper in this day and age.)

But that is soon internally shushed by his young infatuation with Zhongli. It's fine. It's fine. If he's careful, it'll be fine.

(And maybe the hint of getting caught just adds to the fun. Or if it would if Tartaglia wasn't potentially blowing the biggest job he had in his life.)

He grins and leans into the touch, his agitation too persistent to be completely wiped away from his face. ]

Mr. Zhongli is too kind to censor the word ridiculous with amusing. But that's to be expected of the eternal eldest brother.

C'mon. Let me buy you a cab or something. When's the last time you let someone fuss over you a little, huh?

[Zhongli senses a subtle hesitation as Ajax leans into his touch, a fleeting moment of vulnerability that stirs something within the usually composed consultant. The disarrayed copper strands yield to Zhongli's touch, a sculptor's gentle caress whispering in the quiet of the night. There's a dance of emotions in Ajax's eyes – a flicker of nerves, a hint of uncertainty, and Zhongli can't help but wonder about the layers of the enigmatic young man before him.

The offer of a cab is met with internal conflict. As Ajax makes to hurry Zhongli away, a pang of disappointment makes itself known—a surprise, in such a brief, fleeting encounter, like a story yet to unfold and he has no opportunity to explore it. He wonders if Ajax can feel the heavy, mysterious presence congregating in the nearby building. Perhaps that's why, as solemn as the night and event are, the redhead is so attuned to the dangers lingering in the air after they pass.] It's been quite a while but, Ajax, shouldn't you be concerned about yourself as well, then?

[For a foreigner like Ajax, the labyrinthine alleys are an intricate puzzle. Perhaps that's why he looks so frazzled. He sighs, drops his hand onto his shoulder.] I do appreciate your worry. It's just a shame we have to end our encounter like this.

[ Nooooooooo. Even if Tartaglia is absolutely firm in his objective of get Zhongli away and then go back to his post, the disappointment tugs at him in a way that few things can. The look his parents gave him when he got into a scrap at school (look, it wasn't his fault if the other kid ended up in the hospital. He should have known who he was dealing with. Being prepared is a part of being a warrior.). Teucer's face dropping when his meanie big brother forces him to eat his vegetables. The Tsarista when he's botched a mission. (But not this one. Not. this. one!). ]

I am— [ He's not ] I mean, I'll be fine. Been in a scrap or two and know my way around them. Besides! I'll be headed home soon. I just have one little errand to run—

[ Assassinate the most notorious mob boss in all of Liyue. ]

And then I'll head straight home. No need to worry.

[ Tartaglia is a man of his word and his has a job to do. Tempting as it may be, he doesn't even entertain the thought of what could be if he was not who he was. He liked being a blade, wielded so expertly by Her Excellency. Not only did it put food on the table, but it gave his life purpose. Made him feel good. How many people could claim they did what they loved as their job?

(Zhongli probably. Zhongli could probably also claim that.) ]

It is a shame. A real shame. Haaaaaaah. But it can't be helped.

[ Ajax reaches up to place his hands over Zhongli, donning his best and hopefully most disarming smile as he looks over at him. ]

How about I make it up to you? Tomorrow. And the next day you're free. Just tell me when and where to be, and I'll show up. Anywhere.

[Ajax's hands settle warmly over Zhongli, and the disarming smile that graces his face draws Zhongli's gaze. Despite the urgency of their parting, there's a genuine sweetness to Ajax's concern.

It's always an interesting time, when someone is strangely aware of the city's dangers, even though Zhongli himself mostly creates them.

Most, really. Soon enough, in the center of the event, the glaze lilies will shine bright and fragrant while disguising the 360º camera between the blooms, capturing every conversation and encounter. After all, while Zhongli has stepped away from his role, that doesn't necessarily mean he enjoys being none the wiser about the happenings in his land. Especially considering the latest intel that came through about a new group trying to poke and prod both territorially and monetarily, trying to tug free weaves of influence and sow something of its own.

Zhongli can't help but return the smile, his gaze softening.] Tomorrow would be wonderful, [he replies, a warmth settling in his chest.] How about the Liuli Pavilion for dinner? I'll be there to welcome you.

[ Ajax's smile relaxes into one of relief, both for convincing Zhongli to get out of here but also for not (hopefully) damaging their very fresh and budding friendship. (Ha! Take that other Harbingers who said he wasn't any good at diplomacy. Take that and shove it!) ]

Yeah. Yeah! Of course. I'll be there.

[ He squeezes the hand still pressed reassuringly to his shoulder. Yes. They will go to dinner and it will be wonderful. What better way to spend the evening after the most important mission of his life than being allowed to wine and dine Mister Zhongli. Maybe this whole night could be salvaged.

Ajax's other hand goes to his cell phone, supposedly to call for a cab but Ajax is much too paranoid for that, especially with Rex Lapis's minions all around. He sends a quick text to Vlad (one of his subordinates and more than once his getaway driver), quickly giving him instructions to act like one of the many rideshares in the city.

The next grin is a little more reassured. A little more carefree. ]

Text me when you get home, Mister Zhongli. And I promise to stop bothering you for the evening. Sound like a deal? Or a promise— oh wait, right right right. Liyue. Sounds like a contract?

[ It should be no surprise to anyone that Rex Lapis would not completely step down after being the most powerful man in the city for who knows how many years now. That kind of position is hard to step away from. So, is being in control of that much power and influence.

(So perhaps when Zhongli reviews that film later, he might catch the blurry outline of Ajax in the same civilian clothes he wears now much later than he was claiming to stay out this night. He lingers in the shadows of the venue with an intense look of frustration in his eyes. One, two, three frames pass before he disappears back into the darkness as if he was never there at all.

After all, how was he supposed to know that he was the one who sent his prey away?) ]

[Zhongli feels a sense of relief wash over him as Ajax's smile relaxes into one of reassurance. The continuation of their meeting in the Liuli Pavilion brings a glimmer of anticipation to Zhongli's eyes.]

The Liuli Pavilion it is, then. [A chuckle, a warmth spreading through his chest at the thought of their upcoming dinner.] I do keep to my contracts, Ajax. Please rest assured that you've never bothered me, and neither do I see that happening in the future.

[The mention of exchanging contact details prompts Zhongli to search his memory, suddenly quizzical. It's then that he recalls Ajax's subtle gesture from earlier, leaving his number tucked within the folds of the newspaper Zhongli had been reading.] Ah, you're quite right, [Zhongli says, a smile playing on his lips.] I do have your number, don't I? I'll be sure to send you a message once I arrive home safely.

[The apparent rideshare does arrive shortly after, and Zhongli asks once again if Ajax will be alright on his own before he climbs inside the vehicle. He thanks him, once again, and once settled on the seat, Zhongli can't help but reflect on the events of the evening. The glaze lilies, now adorning the center of the event, serve as silent witnesses to the intricate dance of power and influence that defines Liyue.

Once home, pulling at the sleeves of his coat and taking it off, he stops and fishes his phone from his pocket.]

As promised, I have arrived safely. Thank you so much for being so considerate. I hope to return the favor one day. I look forward to tomorrow. - Zhongli

[(Later, Zhongli reviews the camera footage. He notes Ajax's presence in the event, wondering if the young man was lost or searching for someone. The toy business is a serious affair, after all, and the event drew numerous business figures. Was Ajax truly lost in the labyrinthine alleys of the city, or was there something more to his presence at the event? Well, something to think about later.)]

[ The return text does not come until many hours later, somewhere in the twilight hours of what some might call late night and others early morning.

Slumped on his own bed with the window still open from his unconventional entry into his own house, Tartaglia stares blankly at the ceiling, shocked into numbness. For surely that is what it must be. He does not remember how he arrived home. He does not recall much of anything except the growing agitation and panic turned despair that had snuffed out like a candle when the very last of the elite had left the venue.

Rex Lapis had been a no show.

His mission had been a failure.

And the only feeling that the Harbinger could even register was the dig of his personal phone into his thigh as the LED lights on the top blinked incessantly at him that he had one unread message.

For fuck's sake.

Had he been in a better mood, Ajax might have thought it quaint how Zhongli's punctuation even in text was perfect. How he signed his own name like a cordial letter as if it wasn't glaringly obvious who had sent the message in the first place.

Unfortunately, Tartaglia can only dredge up a simmering anger— directed mostly at himself. Was the intel bad? Had one of the other Harbingers set him up? He should have doubted being assigned a mission this good and this important after the Fatui had been in a standstill (or more like defensive) as they had not made any progress into Rex Lapis's territory for months. How naive to think they'd get a miraculous shot at him or even worse, that the Tsaritsa would have picked him out of all her Harbingers for the job.

(Tartaglia, you are a fool. And you will certainly come to pay for that sooner rather than later.)

He drags a hand down his face. ]

nice 👍 made it home safe too. sorry for texting so late. cant wait to see you tomorrow 😍

[Zhongli receives Ajax's reply late into the night, the gentle glow of his phone illuminating the quiet darkness of his room. Nevertheless, he does type out a response, his fingers tapping out the words as he squints at his screen while still tucked in bed.]

Thank you for your message. I'm glad to hear you made it home safely as well. Despite the late hour, it's heartening to know you're looking forward to our dinner tonight. I hope you can get some rest after what seems to have been a long night. Please take care, Ajax. — Z.

[The next evening, Zhongli is seated at the Liuli Pavilion at a table tucked away in a secluded corner of the elegant establishment. The ambience is serene, the soft glow of lanterns casting a warm hue over the polished surfaces. As he waits for Ajax to arrive, Zhongli watches as tea is meticulously prepared and set before him, the waitress well-acquainted with his preferences.

A smile graces Zhongli's lips as he sips the fragrant brew, appreciating the familiar ritual. He knows he will leave the establishment without paying, as he always does, his tab taken care of by the arrangements made long ago. He gestures subtly to the staff, requesting that they maintain a discreet distance during the meal. There are matters to discuss, and he wants his guest to feel comfortable and at ease.

Ah, how interesting. Has he ever felt nervous about such a thing before?]

[ The following day is terrible in every definition of the word. Not only does he have to report on his failure of a mission to Number Five, but there are constant discussions and meetings and beratings across the board masquerading as "retrospectives" and "learning opportunities". It wouldn't surprise Tartaglia in the least if the Tsarista herself were to drag all of them into her office with the possibility of a few of them not making it out with all their digits and limbs attached. But such a threat never comes to pass, the disgruntled attitude left to fester of those in the lower ranks while those on high sit in their ivory towers without so much as a peep from them.

(Did they care so little or expect so little about this whole thing? Thoughts to worry about later in the safety of his own room.)

It's a bit nerve-wracking, waiting for the other shoe to fall. But it does not, and so Childe slips away in the early evening, rushing home to get prepared from his dinner with Zhongli — the only bright spot in this whole fiasco.

If he had time, he would have bought a tin of those cookies he was so fond of. If he had time, he would have brought him a proper courting gift, perhaps too extravagant for a first (second?) date but extremes were more comfortable to Childe than not. If he had time, he would have gotten Zhongli a beautiful and terribly sappy bouquet of flowers where he paid extra for the florist to make sure it was artfully decorated according to something-rather about Liyue culture and history.

But he does not have time, so Childe shows up (on-time, not late!) wearing nothing more than a clean pressed pair of slacks and his signature crimson button up. (Two of the buttons are undone because of course they are! He has to keep up some appearances.) And in his hand is a single glaze lily he managed to buy from a young girl selling flowers on the way (that's what had been in Zhongli's bouquet so he must like them, right?). It's probably mass-produced in some greenhouse in Liyue but beggars can't be choosers as Childe strides into the room with an energy and confidence that he absolutely does not feel being as bone-tired as he is of everything today. ]

Mr. Zhongli~

[ Childe cheerfully presents the glaze lily with a little flourish of a bow and does not yet take a seat. ]

I hope I didn't keep you waiting. Traffic was murder on the way here.

[Zhongli's eyes light up with delight as Ajax presents him with the glaze lily, a simple yet thoughtful gesture that warms his heart. He cradles the delicate flower carefully, admiring its beauty as he listens to Ajax's cheerful greeting. Despite the weariness that lingers from the events of the day, Zhongli finds himself smiling in response to Ajax's energy and enthusiasm.]

Not at all, Ajax, [he reassures him, gesturing for him to take a seat beside him.] You're right on time. Please, join me.

[As they both settle into their seats, Zhongli can't help but admire the flower in his hands.] This is a most fortuitous flower, [he begins, his voice soft with genuine appreciation.] Many glaze lilies are artificially produced in greenhouses, but this one... This one is a strain that only wild glaze lilies can be. Do you see how there are three stems here, instead of four?

[He chuckles softly, feeling slightly bashful at his own rambling.] Ah, forgive me. I seem to have gotten carried away. Thank you. This is a lovely gift.

[Realizing that he hasn't brought anything to reciprocate the gesture, Zhongli gestures to a passing waiter.] Could I trouble you for a tall glass of water, please? I'd like to keep this flower in there while we dine.

[As the waiter nods and hurries off to fulfill his request, Zhongli turns his attention back to Ajax. Very quickly a tall glass with water is set in front of them, and Zhongli places the lily in it. It should bloom soon, if the lighting of the restaurant is dim enough.] Tell me, Ajax, are you familiar with Li-style cuisine?

[ Oh. Oh. It was a rare strain of glaze lily? Score! Ajax is going to go back to that girl and give her a big tip. Like really big! Little did she know that she just helped him impress his date. (Not that is was hard to impress someone as amiable and kind as Mister Zhongli, but still... still— good deeds should be rewarded. And something something Liyue and repaying debts.) ]

Oh no, no— I like hearing about it. And I'd like to hear more. Though it was luck that brought you such a rare flower rather than any skill on my part. Aha~ not that I'm complaining.

[ Ajax hands smooth over the menu in front of him, the stylized Liyuen kanji blending into an unreadable mass before his eyes. Now, Ajax was well versed in the culture and language of Liyue. He'd been stationed here for quite a while after all. And even though the pronunciation of his k's and g's gave him away as a foreigner from Snezhnaya, he was capable enough to conduct all sort of over the counter and under the table dealings.

But this—

Stylized and slightly archaic way of writing— completely beyond him. Good thing he wasn't too picky about what he ate. ]

Not really, no. I think I might have tried it once during a business lunch but was too distracted by work to properly enjoy the meal. I'd love the chance to enjoy it properly.

[ The grin he gives Zhongli is eager as he slides his own menu under Zhongli's. ]

You'll take good care of me, won't you?

[Zhongli's warm smile aims to be a beacon of reassurance, the glint in his golden eyes more than happy with taking the reins of ordering the best dishes of the establishment. He sets aside the menu, and the waiter, a silent specter in the background awaiting their orders with a poised demeanor and distant as had been requested, comes forth with a bow of their head.]

Allow me, then, [he smiles at Ajax before turning to the waiter.] For starters, we will have the Spicy Tofu. And perhaps the Pork with Honey Sauce for our main course. We'll drink some chrysanthemum tea as well.

[As he speaks, Zhongli's keen gaze drifts to the glaze lily resting in the glass of water before them, the delicate petals of the flower unfurl gracefully, and he can't help but be delighted about it, his eyes warming.

The waiter tells him that the pork meat has been cooked slowly for 5 hours, so the timing is perfect for the dish.]

Wonderful. Does that sound agreeable to you, Ajax? [Zhongli inquires, curious.] Or is there something else on the menu that catches your discerning eye?

[ Ajax zones out for a bit, too mesmerized by seeing the glaze lily bloom upon the table to register the more detailed parts of Zhongli's order. Were they supposed to do that? He'd never seen that particular flower (except for the carefully manicured ones near the Qixing's buildings) until yesterday. Were they nocturnal then?

He snaps quickly to attention when Zhongli calls out his name (as if his every sense wouldn't snap to attention at the wonderful sound of Zhongli's voice): ]

Sure. Sure. But do you mind if we also add a seafood dish? We are near the harbor, after all.

[ He brings a hand to his head, scratching it in confusion for a moment— ]

Or was that the other famous style of Liyue cuisine...?

[ And will he be given a disappointed frown from both Mister Zhongli and their waiter if he orders the specialty from another restaurant? Liyue merchants had a pride in their wares that was borderline ruthless after all.

Ah, Ajax continues to nervously ruffle his hair only to realize he is ruffling it and smooth it back down to something presentable at this establishment. ]

Never mind. That sounds wonderful. Let's start with that!

[As the waiter retreats to convey their order to the kitchen, Zhongli notices Ajax's fascination with the glaze lily, a soft smile playing on his lips.]

It's beautiful, isn't it? [he remarks, his gaze gentle as he observes the delicate bloom.

When Ajax questions whether the seafood dish was from another renowned restaurant, Zhongli nods in confirmation.] Indeed, it is the Xinyue Kiosk specializes in Yue cuisine, particularly known for seafood dishes. Perhaps we can try that on our next outing.

[He pauses, considering Ajax's preferences with a touch of bashfulness.] I must admit, I'm not particularly fond of seafood myself, [he confesses, his expression sheepish.] It's a matter of texture rather than flavor. However, I'm open to trying dishes such as seafood tofu, where the seafood is incorporated differently.

[As he speaks, Zhongli reaches out to gently smooth down a stray lock of Ajax's hair, a gesture that feels oddly familiar. In the background, the waiter comes to serve them their tea, fragrant and heady.] There we go,[he murmurs, his touch light and comforting.] All tidy.

[ "On our next outing..."

That combined with the playful and affectionate touch to his hair has Ajax sporting a wide grin. Score! This was nice (really really nice) after the comedy of errors and no-shows that occurred last night. Finally, things were looking up! Ajax leans into the touch much like a puppy asking for more skritches but behaves (somehow) when Zhongli pulls his hand back even though he very much would like to indulge more.

His eyes drift over to Zhongli's always immaculately tied back hair, gears already visibly turning in his head as he schemes. ]

Hey hey, no need to be ashamed. We all have our likes and dislikes, yeah?

[ Except maybe for Ajax who would shovel anything and everything into his mouth, partially because they couldn't afford to be picky when he was younger and now because he was usually too busy in his double life to sit down and enjoy a meal like this. ]

It's settled then. One order of seafood tofu.

[ There's a moment of hesitation then, Ajax's features scrunching into something more boyish as he decides his next move. It's like chess, right? (It's not like chess.) Match your opponent but don't overextend. Don't be hasty!

And with all the nonchalance of a Fontainian blubberbeast, Ajax casually places one of his own hands over Zhongli's. ]

[As Ajax confidently settles on a compromise, Zhongli's smile widens, pleased with the choice.] I appreciate it. I'm certain you'll find it to your liking if you are to try it.

[There's a sudden, unexpected warmth spreading through Zhongli as Ajax's hand comes to rest over his own. It's a simple gesture, yet it carries a weight of intimacy that catches Zhongli off guard. His heart skips a beat, his pulse quickening slightly as he meets Ajax's gaze with a soft, surprised expression.

Ajax's eyes hold a playful glimmer, his features reflecting a boyish charm that Zhongli finds endearing. Without a word, this is such a gesture that speaks volumes of something, and Zhongli, for once, finds himself at a loss.

Zhongli's gaze drops to his hand, the warmth of their touch sending a shiver down his spine. Slowly, he turns his hand—

—And the waiters slip by and announce the first round of meals to be served.] Ah. There we go. [He nods appreciatively for the waiters' service, and he removes his hand to point at the dishes before them.] This is the Spicy Tofu. Would you hand me your plate?

Xiansheng is such a gentleman.

[ But Ajax does hand over the aforementioned plate, quite pleased with himself that Zhongli seemed pleased with the small showing of physical affection. (And more secretly pleased that he did not pull away at the immediate return of the waiter.) Yes, yes. This whole experience was becoming quite the balm on his sour mood as of earlier today.

He watches Zhongli portion out the dishes the same way he does everything— with an effortlessly elegance and refinement that Ajax only associates with the few shared banquests with the head of the Fatui herself. ]

Though uh—

[ Right — the elephant in the room that Ajax had been secretly dreading this whole time. ]

It's probably bad manners to ask for a knife and fork in a place as fancy as this, yeah?

[Zhongli's eyebrows arch ever so slightly in surprise at Ajax's question.] Oh? [The corners of his lips twitch with amusement, though he shakes his head.] You should not be concerned about propriety. Though I must admit, it's rare to see someone in Liyue request utensils other than chopsticks.

[He reaches for his own pair, deftly picking up a piece of spicy tofu and placing it onto Ajax's plate.] Have you not learned how to use chopsticks during your time here? [Zhongli inquires gently, his tone carrying a hint of teasing.] You've been in Liyue for quite some time now. Surely you've had ample opportunity to become proficient with them?

[Zhongli's gaze softens with a hint of amusement, giving some sort of respite to his taunting as he observes Ajax's reaction. He's fond, even if a bit challenging. Ajax has been daring, earnest. Something like this seems just a small setback in comparison.] However, if you find using chopsticks challenging, I'd be more than happy to offer my assistance. Would you like me to teach you?

Xiansheng!

I feel like I'm being judged. Are you judging me?

[ Though the tone is good-natured even as Ajax pinkens just a little across the cheeks and tips of his ears. On one hand, he is obviously going to look like a fool in front of this person that he is trying to impress. But on the other hand, he'd do a number of shameless things to keep Zhongli looking at him with that fond and teasing smile.

Just to prove how awful he is at chopsticks, Ajax makes a brave attempt to pick up the piece of spicy tofu that has been placed on his plate. It can't be that hard, right? Zhongli made it look so easy. And it's right there practically at his mouth so all he has to do is not fuck up during the short distance from his plate to said mouth. With his chopsticks crossed precariously in almost an x-shape, he picks up the tofu on the third try, grin cheeky as he brings it up a few centimeters off the plate only to have it plop back down with a squelchy slap. Truly unappetizing. To add insult to injury, the way he was holding the chopsticks and trying to save his pride results in severing said tofu into two unequal pieces.

Oh woe is Ajax, who should look ashamed but instead holds out his hand enthusiastically for assistance instead. (Ah getting all giddy for hand-holding with Zhongli. He's so down bad for this man.) ]

Yes! Teach me. Teach me!

[Zhongli can't help but find Ajax's reaction endearing, the slight flush of embarrassment only adding to his charm. There's a genuine earnestness in his attempts, a willingness to try his best even in the face of potential embarrassment, that tugs at Zhongli's heartstrings. It's moments like these that make Zhongli feel fond of him, appreciating his efforts to seek his approval.

With a soft chuckle, Zhongli nudges his chair closer to Ajax's, their proximity allowing him to guide Ajax's hands through the motions of using chopsticks. He sets himself close, their knees brushing gently under the table as Zhongli demonstrates the proper grip and technique.]

Here, let me show you. Hold the bottom chopstick steady with your thumb and ring finger, like this. [He gently adjusts Ajax's hand, guiding his fingers into position.] Now, use your index finger and middle finger to hold the top chopstick, applying just enough pressure to pick up the food.

[As he speaks, Zhongli demonstrates the motion, his touch light and sure as he guides Ajax's hands through the motions.] I'll admit, tofu may be challenging considering its smooth texture. Let's try picking a vegetable to measure the pressure you need to use, [he encourages, his gaze fixed on Ajax's hands as he guides him to pick up a piece.] Remember, Ajax: holding something too tightly may make it break. With a gentle touch, you'll find things respond much more readily.

[ Oh no.

Oh no.

Chopsticks were a mistake. A very very big mistake as now Ajax is supposed to be doing something that is not listening to the deep soothing tenor of Zhongli's voice saying something about "response" and "gentle touch" while Zhongli's hand is warm and steady over his. Zhongli is wrong. Absolutely positively wrong. Gentle can break something as equally as holding something tight — just in very different ways. And wouldn't Ajax enjoy if Zhongli were to — ... No. Bad Ajax. Not right now. This is about using wooden sticks to shovel food into one's mouth—

Pull yourself together, Ajax. Focus! ]

Mmmhmmm. Yeah. I see. Gentle. —gently.

[ That is to say — Ajax tries to act more like a student and less of a crushing puppy as he lets Zhongli guide his hand to pick up some leafy green that he should know the name of. His single-minded determination to impress the other man keeps his thumb and ring finger locked in position as he tries to maneuver the chopsticks with his other two fingers. It's marginally successful — at least pincered instead of stabbed — as the vegetables wobbles in the space in front of them precariously. ]

Like this?

[Zhongli can't help but smile at Ajax's earnest attempt, his eyes warm with encouragement as he watches him navigate the chopsticks with determination. Despite the initial struggle, there's a noticeable improvement in Ajax's technique, a testament to his willingness to learn and adapt.]

That's it, [he murmurs a gentle reassurance.] You're getting the hang of it. Just a bit more finesse, and you'll have it.

[With a careful nudge of his own chopsticks, Zhongli helps steady the piece of vegetable between Ajax's chopsticks, offering a supportive guide as Ajax attempts to lift it.] A little more pressure, [he advises, his touch light as he adjusts Ajax's grip ever so slightly.] Just enough to secure the food without crushing it.

[As Ajax makes another attempt, Zhongli can't help but feel a swell of pride at his progress.] Yes, like that, [he encourages, his smile widening as Ajax manages to lift the vegetable successfully.] Well done, Ajax. You're a quick learner.

[ Yes. Good. Praise Ajax more. He basks in it like a cat rolling around in a sunbeam. It's warm— warmer than the icy pride the Tsarista has for her youngest Vanguard. Warmer than his parents' thanks as he puts food on the table with a smile even if in hushed whispers they doubted the credibility of his occupation. Could a toy salesman (even the world's finest as Teucer liked to proclaim) earn that much? (No. No they could not.) Not quite as warm as the unending affection he has for his siblings and his siblings for him, but—

Zhongli's warmth was dangerous in its intensity. In how it quickly had caught Ajax's attention. If not for the fact that he had approached Zhongli first (and the crushing, er, stalking capabilities of a talented hitman like himself), Tartaglia would certainly doubt its authenticity on principal. But oh, lucky for him, that Zhongli had turned out to be exactly as presented — an old fashioned old soul of a funeral parlor worker.

Childe grins like a student who was just told they received full marks on their test: ]

A student is as only good as their teacher.

[ The words are corny, cliche and predictable— yet Ajax offers them eagerly anyway because the feedback loop the two of them have found themselves in. Flattery for praise in an endless circle even if it was obvious how much more thirstily Ajax drank from their interactions.

And speaking of corny and cliche—

With the next piece of vegetable clutched within the grasp of slightly trembling chopsticks, Ajax lifts it up to Zhongli's mouth so that he might taste the fruits of his teachings. Quite literally, in fact. ]

See for yourself.

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