hydrangeabloom | Mafia AU

Entry tags:

Mafia AU

[ A tale of two people leading double-lives and the inevitable misunderstandings that follow ]

[Ajax's suggestion of finding something that could be split into two parts, each keeping one half, strikes him in a way that he hadn't expected. It's… a romantic notion, one that speaks to a deep connection. Jewelry has always held a special significance in Liyuean tradition, often given as tokens of allegiance or love. To wear another person's adornment is to symbolize a deep connection, a bond that transcends time and space apart.

As Bolai, the shopkeeper, speaks of the piece Zhongli had been admiring, his interest is piqued even further. The idea that it was carved by one of the followers of the Geo Lord centuries ago adds a layer of mystique to the already exquisite piece. He can't help but feel drawn to it, his own familial connection to the Lord of Liyue slipping into the surface of his mind from a strict and devoted upbringing, a sense of reverence washing over him at the thought of owning such a piece of history. But Ajax's request for jewelry brings a smile to Zhongli's lips, a fondness for the young man's enthusiasm evident in his eyes.

To look at the future, or the present, more than the past. Perhaps that's a better alternative.

With a nod, Zhongli gestures for Bolai to show them the selection of jewelry, his eyes scanning the various pieces with a keen eye. He's searching for something that would capture the essence of their relationship, something that would symbolize their connection in a meaningful way.

And then he sees it—a pair of intricately carved jade earrings, one depicting a dragon and the other a phoenix. In Liyuean tradition, the dragon and the phoenix are often seen as symbols of harmony and balance, representing the union of two opposites. They can be worn alone, but placed together, and they click into an entanglement as they are displayed now. It's a fitting choice, Zhongli thinks, even if perhaps too bold in its significance. Maybe Ajax would not know of it and read into it.]

What do you think about this?

[ Bolai, a merchant who with a straight face has dealt with some of the unruliest and prideful individuals that the Liyue underbelly had to offer, cannot help but form a small 'o' with his mouth as Zhongli points to that specific set of earrings. Surely, the price is something to balk at as are many of his wares — the cost of the jade usually an invitation to see his other merchandise, after all— but this, this was a veritable priceless token of information. And completely unheard of in all the time since the mantle had changed hands to its young (now retired) leader.

"A heart of stone" they had whispered about the new Rex Lapis. Not prone to vices and indulgences like many that had come before him. And yet, here he was doting on this young man (whose bloody reputation also proceeded him). One of the favored of the Ice Queen herself. Surely. Surely, he must be dreaming. He feels faint. Lightheaded almost.

And through it all, Ajax remains oblivious to every distressed thought in Bolai's spinning head. ]

Oh, this is really pretty.

[ Casually, and without asking, Ajax takes the dragon earring and holds it up to the lobe of Zhongli's ear, testing if its magnificence would hold up to Zhongli's. The jade was a darker more purer color than the baubles one might find in the tourist traps of the city proper. And as such, it nicely complimented the vibrant gold of Zhongli's eyes.

Yes, yes. Pretty indeed. ]

I gotta say I'm a little surprised that a scholar like yourself is partial to this kind of thing. But Liyue loves its rocks and dragons. Why should Mr. Zhongli be any different?

[ With one last discerning tilt of his head, Ajax swaps the dragon for the phoenix pressed against Zhongli's ear. He hums a bit to himself, waffling on whether he preferred the symbol of power on display for all to see (hot!) or the elegant and graceful tenacity of the never-dying (also hot!). ]

This one's nice, too. Not often you see this kind of bird in the local wares. And what a power combo, yeah? That which cannot be defeated and that which can never die.

[Zhongli watches with a mix of amusement and fondness as Ajax takes the dragon earring and holds it up to his own ear, distracting him from the glance he throws Bolai for his lack of control over his facial expressions. It's a small thing, but the gesture speaks volumes and draws Zhongli in immediately, the warmth of Childe's hand so close to his face in the crip night breeze.

Zhongli considers Ajax's words for a moment, his gaze drifting to the dragon earring in his hand as he tries the phoenix on him instead. There's a certain allure to the elegant and graceful bird, power in steadfastness, permanence, presence, cycles, changes… but the dragon is a symbol of tenacity and resilience that resonates with him on a deep level, and always has. His eyes flicker back to Ajax, the spirited quality that burns within him evident in the playful glint in his eyes.

With a smile, Zhongli takes the dragon earring from Ajax's hand, his fingers lingering for a moment longer than necessary as he places it near Ajax's ear.] I think the dragon should be on you, [he says softly. He meets Ajax's gaze, his own eyes alight with a twinkle.] And I should keep the phoenix. After all, you do have a certain fiery quality to you. And this way, we'll have a memory of this night to carry with us wherever we go.

[He tilts his head, watching the jade contrast with the copper of Ajax's hair. Like a setting sun over a clear pool.] Does that sound agreeable?

As if I could ever forget you, Mister Zhongli.

[ Ajax cocks his head to the side just so, enough that he can preen a little for Zhongli as the other holds the earring up to his ear. Dragon would not be his first choice for legendary creature dangling from his lobe— but the thought of the cool jade brushing up against his skin as a constant reminder of this gift or the thought that Zhongli might give him a small subtle smile if he were to catch him wearing it—

Well, that was all that Childe needed to be convinced. Convinced to wear it almost every day, in fact. ]

But yeah, yeah. It's agreeable. More than agreeable! Just give me a sec, and I—

[ With practiced ease, he slips his current earring off (a ruby red gem mined from the heart of the frozen nation to the north) and tucks it away into his pocket. The next tilt of his head comes with a very expectant look. ]

Go ahead then and put it on! I'll do the same for you.

[ Ajax grins brightly, almost giddy in how much he was enjoying himself and how much he was enjoying time with a someone who would have been just another stranger not a handful of days ago, but now seemed a complimentary match in every way. How did he manage to get so lucky. But oh— that also reminds him. ]

Oh! And I'll pay for both, of course, Boss!

[ He cheerfully addresses Bolai without ever taking his eyes off Zhongli. ]

[There's a certain charm to Ajax's confidence, a playful energy that draws Zhongli in like a moth to a flame. He can't help but admire the way Ajax carries himself, the easy grace with which he moves through the world. As though such a simple thing carried glory with itself and Ajax stands there as the only one in awe, unapologetic.]

I wouldn't dream of forgetting you either, Ajax, [Zhongli replies softly as he meets Ajax's expectant gaze. With practiced ease, he takes the dragon earring and gently places it on Ajax's ear, his fingers lingering for a moment longer than necessary as he steps just a fraction closer.]

There, [he says softly, his breath ghosting over Ajax's skin as he steps back, admiring the way the jade contrasts against the copper of Ajax's hair. He looks at the earring, fingers tracing and making it dangle from a very boyish lobe. Zhongli smiles, and it's not without its fondness as he admires it and its wearer.] Perfect.

[As Ajax cheerfully addresses Bolai, Zhongli can't help but feel a twinge of guilt at the thought of Ajax paying for both of their earrings.] Ah, I did forget my wallet, considering the particularities of our dinner. So I appreciate it very much. [What a generous offer, one that Zhongli finds himself unable to refuse despite his better judgment. With a bashful smile, he accepts the gift, his eyes casting low as he removes his own earring for Ajax to place the new one instead.

Bolai watches the exchange with a mix of surprise and awe. Here stands Rex Lapis, the well-respected and feared magnate of Liyue's most powerful family, cavorting with Tartaglia, the Vanguard of the Shnezhnayan equivalent. It's a sight that would have been unthinkable not too long ago—or recently. Bolai prides himself in knowing and navigating through the shifting alliances and unspoken tensions that simmer beneath the surface of Liyue's criminal underworld, but he had never thought this would happen right before his stall, before himself.

Rex and Tartaglia stand together in the heart of the night market, surrounded by the sights and sounds of Liyue Harbor, and it feels ritualistic, like a bond forged in the fires of adversity and strengthened by the trials of time has been shaped this evening. Like heralds of doom, or the end of Bolai's world as he knows it.

He's sure this is either a Golden opportunity or Karma would befall him for two thousand years.

Zhongli, meanwhile, tucks a lock of his dark hair behind his ear, and offers it with a tilt of his head as he awaits Ajax to do the same with the counterpart of the pair. ]

[ And Tartaglia, smitten smitten Tartaglia, does not notice the stiffness to which Bolai plucks the card from his hand. Does not hide his exuberance at being allowed to spoil the man that he so thoroughly fancied. Does not even bother to realize he's using his "company card" instead of his personal one, the logo of the Northland Bank emblazoned proudly upon the silver surface.

No, Ajax is much too busy hurriedly fumbling with the earring so that he might hang it from Zhongli's elegant lobe. The gentle care in which he pushes it in rivals the care that he shows his younger brothers and sister while play fighting, fidgeting with it juuuuust enough so that it catches the lantern light just so. The feathered texture pulls at Ajax's with some strange nostalgia, but from where he doesn't know. ]

There. Perfect.

[ A grin stretches wide across Ajax's lips, admiring. ]

How lucky for me that you forgot your wallet.

[ If only Ajax knew—

He half-turns on his heel, tucked up against Zhongli's side again as a blank-faced Bolai hands him back his card. It is a testament to his will that the the shopkeeper does not react to that remark (for his own health and welfare). ]

Shall we see what else the night has in store for us, Mr. Zhongli?

[As Ajax carefully places the earring on Zhongli's ear, he feels a flush of warmth spread across his nape. It's been a long time since he's received a gift so eagerly, and he finds himself bashful under Ajax's enthusiastic gaze. The weight of the earring feels different on his lobe, unfamiliar yet comforting in its presence. He glances at a nearby mirror to see how it looks on him, but he's so quickly distracted by his companion's bright smile that he doesn't even notice the card that Ajax flashes so exuberantly.]

Thank you, Ajax, [he murmurs, proper manners and grace at being offered something with so much meaning behind it, no matter the spontaneity of the moment. He offers Bolai a polite nod.]

Thank you for your assistance, Master Bolai. I wish you a good evening. [The shopkeeper's stiff demeanor is not lost on him. He knows the man is likely shivering to the bone with the realization of who he's dealing with, but Zhongli is not one to flaunt his status. He prefers to keep a low profile, to let his actions speak for themselves. He almost feels guilty.

Even if Bolai himself is counting every recent transaction he made and if it ever not benefited the dragon of Liyue.

With his attention back to Ajax as they make their way through the night market, Zhongli allows himself to truly feel the comforting warmth of the younger man tucked up against his side again, drawn to it more than he should care to admit. He's not used to being treated with such enthusiasm, to being wanted in such a way. He wonders, his thoughts drifting to the younger man in a way that he finds both exhilarating and terrifying if he enjoys this because he likes the attention or because he genuinely enjoys Ajax's company. But then he catches sight of Ajax's profile, the copper strands of his hair catching the warmth of the streetlights, the way that his eyes seem to glimmer, a contrast to how they usually look like darkened depths, as though borrowing from the life of Liyue itself. Zhongli is not accustomed to, the sensation of being wanted, of being cherished. And yet, as he looks down at Ajax's smiling face, he realizes that he could grow used to it, even if it feels like a selfish indulgence.

No, he's not enjoying this because he likes the attention. He's enjoying it because he likes Ajax—likes the way he fits into the fabric of Liyue, the way he moves with such effortless grace despite his outsider status. There's something undeniably magnetic, something that leaves him wanting more.

So he takes him with a smile to an antique shop, and a traditional toymaker stall allowing the craftsperson to talk shop instead of Zhongli, giving him tips on how to select the proper jade, despite the shopkeeper trying to swindle them. He then tugs Ajax closer, so they can walk along the harbor and the piers, listening to the sailors and the workers as they either prepare to stay the night or an early departure the next morning.]

I hope I am not stealing too much of your time, [Zhongli says after a while when the hullabaloo is muted by the distance.] I wouldn't want you to feel obligated to spend so long away from your family.

[ The rest of the evening is spent in a whirlwind of stalls and booths and lengthy explanations with Ajax hanging on Zhongli's every word. He is perhaps most animated at the toymaker's, absorbing with rapt fascination the centuries old hand-made traditions that have been kept for the simple kites and dolls when mass-produced machinery created the lion's share of the modern market. And even if he did get swindled a bit when Zhongli wasn't looking, Ajax does purchase a bit of jade at well above market value — a plan for later spinning in his head as he tucks it away before the older man can notice.

As they drift along the pier, Ajax catches Zhongli giving him a look more than once though he's not sure exactly what the other is thinking about and can't stare for too long lest he be considered rude.

Has he done something off-putting? Fumbled important Liyuen culture? Have something on his face from one of the sweets he had purchased for the two of them to share (even though Childe's belly was so full from everything he had eaten today).

Ajax is so absorbed in investigating his own behavior under a microscope that the hesitance and doubt in Zhongli's voice catches him completely off guard. And oh, that won't do. That won't do at all! Good thing Ajax was a confidence booster extraordinaire — both for himself and others when the need arose. ]

Now now. Mister Zhongli.

[ Ajax's hands go to smooth the already impeccably starched and flat collar of his coat. The smile that has been there all night still beams up at him even though it is tinged with the promise of a person who is definitely going to have a little fun at someone else's expense. ]

I'm having a great time. One that I'm sure my sweet princess of a little sister will tease me for when I slip back home at this hour. But—! I wouldn't trade it for the world, and I certainly will not have you returning home thinking that you were demanding or a bother when that couldn't be further from the truth.

You're quite the catch, don't you know? Handsome. Well-connected. A perfect gentleman.

[ His hands slide lower down Zhongli's chest and down those abs that were almost making him jealous. Maybe the consultant could give him some tips on this subject, too, later. ]

And ripped! Though why are you hiding that under all these layers of clothes? —No, actually, that's for the best! It makes me feel special to know that I might be one of the few who knows that little secret.

[When Ajax suddenly smooths his collar and beams up at him, Zhongli feels his heart skip a beat. The younger man's touch, the confident yet playful tone of his voice, it's all so...bold. Unaccustomed to such overt affection, Zhongli finds himself feeling shy, a soft flush creeping up his neck and bowing his head. Which is a mistake, as he watches those long fingers slide lower down his chest, brushing against his abdomen. The touch is electric, sending shivers down his spine. Being touched so freely, so eagerly, it takes everything in him to maintain his composure.

Zhongli clears his throat softly, a bashful smile tugging at the corners of his lips as he meets Ajax's gaze.]

You flatter me, Ajax. [His voice is soft, a nervous chuckle preceding a touch of playfulness in his tone despite the shyness that lingers in his eyes.] I'm not accustomed to such bold compliments. But I must admit, it's...refreshing.

After all, you're quite the charmer yourself, [Zhongli continues, his voice softening as he reaches up to gently brush a strand of hair from Ajax's forehead.] Handsome, daring, and full of life. [He gently places a hand over Ajax's, his touch light yet steady, a silent acknowledgment that it's not something he's rejecting.]

I'm glad to hear you're having a great time. I am as well. [His gaze softens, his smile growing warmer.] And as for my layers of clothes, well, perhaps it's a good thing I have you to see through them.

[The words come out more flirtatious than he intended, but Zhongli doesn't mind. It's a new feeling, this ease and warmth, and he finds himself enjoying it more than he expected. He doesn't want Ajax to recoil, doesn't want to lose this newfound connection. Instead, he wants to nurture it, to see where it leads.]

Shall we continue our walk? [He suggests, his voice gentle as he looks out over the harbor.]

[ Oh. Oh. Ajax has certainly caught himself the most adorable man in all of Liyue. The flush of red creeping up his neck (Childe's favorite color!) is quite nice to see not only because Mister Zhongli is very much worthy of such praise but there's a non-trivial amount of satisfaction for Childe in making him blush. There's also quite the little cocky self-assured smile as Childe watches Zhongli's eyes follow the lazy path of his fingers.

(That's right. That's it. All eyes on me~)

Ajax doesn't even pause for a moment as he continues to shamelessly flirt with someone who so shamelessly reciprocated: ]

Well, shame on them— [ Whoever they are ] and all the more for me if no one in this city has tried to flatter you properly. They really dropped the ball on that one. But finders keepers! Because you know, I'd like to see through your clothes any—

[ Wait— wha—

Did Zhongli just imply—? Nah. No, he didn't. It would be unfair for someone so devastatingly handsome to be able to turn the tables on Ajax with such a pleasant and polite tone of voice all while saying that.

Goodness gracious! Mr. Zhongli!

Ajax thoughts are dizzying as Zhongli teases him, reeling him in closer and closer: "Look, we can't go back to my place 'cuz I have little ones at the house and thin walls and you are very very very attractive. So what about your place, hmmm? Take me home. Pretty please take me home."

Bold as he may be though, Ajax is not bold enough to invite himself over that shamelessly on a first date. If the clinging off Zhongli's arm intensified, however— that was just the natural response. What else was a boy with a blooming crush to do? ]

I'd follow you anywhere.

[ Ugh. No, wait. That sounds needy and desperate. Not cool, Ajax. Recover. Recover. ]

I mean— Until morning anyway. Haha~ Then I have to dash away dramatically at dawn's first light until fate grants us its blessing that we may meet again. Or, yanno, until I text you next— whichever comes first.

Edited 2024-06-07 08:32 (UTC)

[Zhongli's heart skips a beat at Ajax's playful yet sincere words, the younger man's thrilling and endearing boldness. He feels a flush of warmth as Ajax clings a bit tighter to his arm. His own shyness feels like a relic of a bygone era, an old habit that he finds himself gently shedding in Ajax's presence. The warmth of Ajax's touch and the sincerity in his eyes make Zhongli feel seen in a way he hasn't in a long time.]

Well, perhaps next time, I'll be the one to text you first, [Zhongli says with a soft chuckle, his gaze meeting Ajax's with a playful glint.] Or maybe we could do something different. Once you've seen to your little ones, I would love for you to meet my dog. He's quite grumpy but friendly. He could use a friend. Maybe Narwhal would enjoy having a companion?

[In the meantime, he continues to guide Ajax through the hidden treasures of the harbor, showing him the nooks and crannies that only a local would know. They explore night salesmen's stalls selling trinkets and decadent snacks, challenging the younger man to try the spicy options, but readily knowing how to douse the heat with a special kind of drink or tea. The air filled with the mingling scents of food and the soft hum of the sound around them is not enough to subdue their conversations.

As they wander, the sky begins to lighten from the deep black of night to a gentle reddish blue, signaling the approaching dawn. The world feels quieter, more intimate as if it belongs only to them in this fleeting moment.

Finally, as they reach a small, secluded spot overlooking the harbor, Zhongli turns to Ajax, his heart full of gratitude and warmth. He squeezes Ajax's hand gently.]

Until next time, [Zhongli murmurs, his voice soft and earnest.] Thank you for a wonderful evening, Ajax. And for your generosity and enthusiasm in indulging someone like myself.

[He meets his gaze, his eyes reflecting the soft glow of the approaching dawn, filled with a depth of emotion that words alone cannot capture.]

I look forward to our next meeting.

[ Ajax looks positively giddy with the thought that Zhongli might text him first. Maybe he should be a polite boy and be patient so he can roll around in the serotonin hit that is sure to come with Zhongli's name appearing on his locked screen. What a pleasant surprise that would be! ]

I'd love to meet your dog. Narwhal already adores you, the little traitor, and probably needs friends his own uh... haha, species?

[ The rest of the night is an enjoyable blur of activities— Ajax vividly remembers bragging about how he could handle his spice before Zhongli soothed his sore ego with specialty drink after specialty drink. Oh, he'd have to train himself to handle it. Maybe it was like building any other muscle by exposing yourself to harsher and harsher spices until one day he'd be able to down even the spiciest of Liyue food with a smile. How impressed would Mr. Zhongli be then!

Ah, but all good things come to an end, and Ajax feels Zhongli squeeze his hand and bid him a soft and tender farewell that makes his heart clench. For a moment, he stands there transfixed, the warmth of their touch warming his heart as he leans in and—

Rests his forehead against Zhongli's with a soft smile of his own. ]

Me, too, Mister Zhongli. Don't be a stranger, okay?

[ He can feel the heat rising in his cheeks and his impulses screaming at him as he uncharacteristically denies them to ensure a proper first date farewell for his very handsome and very proper first date. ]

I'm sure we'll be in touch.

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