Chapter Text
The silence was soon drowned out by a creak of the bed frame.
A low moan escaped Ajax as he arched his back and spread his legs wider. His hands found purchase in the sheets whilst he held his gaze up to his lover's own. The air turned heady and warm, smelling so strongly of tea and pine mixed together.
Long brunette hair spilled from Zhongli's shoulders, the golden ends faintly alight with geo as he steadied his breathing. He had an arm braced by Ajax's head. His eyes held a fierce, almost intense light. He rubbed gentle circles into the harbinger's hips as they both took a moment to ease into the stretch.
How wonderful it was. Ajax couldn't quite relax himself all the way. His lover filled him up so perfectly, though it was difficult to sink into pleasure when anticipation broiled in his veins.
"Come on," he huffed, tapping the heel of his foot against Zhongli's back. "Move?"
His wish was his lover's command, affirmed with a fervent nod. Zhongli pulled out slowly, drawing the most pleased hum out of Ajax. He savoured the drag of their connection, made so easy through the endless foreplay and preparation they’d enjoyed. The adeptus bit his bottom lip as the very tip of his member remained, and he couldn't help himself with dipping down to capture the harbinger in a suffocating kiss.
The air was pushed right out of Ajax's lungs with a slow, yet forceful thrust of Zhongli's hips. It sent shivers through the harbinger's body, like the Chasm’s stones resonating deep within him. Moaning into their kiss, Ajax unlatched the sheets to grab onto his lover instead, meeting him with every buck to take him deeper.
Fire licked his blood, so too did pleasure buzzed along his skin. He curled his toes and clenched around his lover's girth, earning himself a low rumble and a set of fangs catching the tip of his tongue. It spasmed like a fish out of water, though the mental imagery did nothing to put him off. Ajax could swear he was burning from the inside out. His cheeks, his heart, his stomach—
So full, so deep, so, so good. Every thrust struck a nerve which set his body alight, like a spark setting off the fuse of a firework. His mind was a haze filled with nothing but simple, carnal desires; more, more, more of this, more of Zhongli. His lover took him apart with practised ease, smothering him in patience and pleasure. It drowned everything else out of Ajax until all he could wish for was the man right above him; the man who worked his body like a skilled master wielding his blade.
"A-ah, Zhongli, please, more." Dignity was a concept left outside their bedroom door. It was here and here alone, in the company of the adeptus, did Ajax dare to let his composure fall completely. His eyes fell so heavily lidded, he didn't bother with seeing through them any more. Instead, he pointed them straight toward the ceiling so he could focus more on his own body, how it fitted and hugged Zhongli so well, taking everything he gave without bending or breaking—physically, at least.
A kiss to his cheek, then one to the tip of his nose. "You feel so wonderful, Ajax," the adeptus huffed. His voice carried with it an otherworldly timbre, reverberating just as a pulse of geo within the Chasm would. "Your body is divine; absolutely perfect. I could have no other than you alone, my love."
The arm braced beside Ajax shifted, enough for gold-tipped fingers to find his hair. He welcomed it, cherished it—relished in it, even—letting his lips stretch wide as Zhongli scratched gently at his scalp. Praise filtered into his ears as white noise, yet they rippled through the harbinger as the glorious screams of his enemies would.
Like the sweetest honey, the most prized cor lapis, Zhongli regarded Ajax as he would treasure. His eyes were truly that of a dragon's, the diamonds he had for pupils flaring bright as a star as they locked deeply onto said treasure.
As they settled into a rhythm, they took each other in arms. Ajax with his ceaseless embrace threatening to dig crescent-shaped welts into his lover's back; and Zhongli with hoisting the harbinger's leg over his shoulder, grabbing onto the flesh of his thighs for both leverage and support. Amber eyes glowed bright in the dark space between them, locking onto Ajax, and Ajax alone. Whatever noise, whatever distractions there were played no part in slowing their coupling.
As the pleasure began to crest, Ajax made it well known by pulling Zhongli down to nip at his throat. He hummed and moaned unabashedly, licking at smooth unblemished skin. He sucked air into his lungs and held his breath as a spark of electricity shot up his spine—not of his Delusion, but of his prostate being kissed with the tip of Zhongli's cock.
Ajax slid a hand to cradle the back of his lover's head, leaning in to whisper into his ear. "I'm close. Really close. Just like that, k-keep—ah, right there, right there!"
He was mouthing off nonsense without a care in the world. Anything to keep their pace. Everything was just right, slowly creeping up to him at once. Static blared in his ears as it all reached its apex, and his body seized like a bone having snapped.
His orgasm came like thunder almost, like the rushing waves sweeping him away. Stars flashed in his vision, blurring the edges like fire eating away at a photograph. His moans carried raw from his throat and had no shame, even as his voice broke off whilst Zhongli continued to seek his own release. It took a moment more before the adeptus climaxed, going still as a rock as he swallowed his own sounds.
Satiated to the bone, they crashed in a heap of limbs. Zhongli, however, was kind enough to not lay atop and restrict his lover's breathing. He allowed himself a few minutes to collect himself before pulling out slowly. The squelch of lube and hydro wasn't a particularly pleasant sound, nor sensation, but in the haze of their shared afterglow, neither of them cared one bit.
Ajax let his body act on its own free will, grabbing onto his lover and pulling him in for a warm, sweaty, comforting embrace. It settled the nerves tingling all around his body, like ice to a bruise. The surrounding air was cold against his heated skin, and Zhongli served as the perfect anchor to keep him from floating away.
"Ajax, my love, we should clean up before retiring for the night," his lover chided sweetly.
The harbinger grumbled. He could not bear to move a finger. "Later."
"Well, then at least allow me to fetch a towel so I can freshen you."
"Mmm, but I feel too good to move," Ajax bemoaned. "Everything's all floaty, and buzzy. Don't wanna think right now. Do it later."
"Is that so..." Something odd flickered in Zhongli's eyes, but it swiftly disappeared for a humble sigh instead. "Very well. Then rest, my love. I will take care of everything."
Unfair. Ajax felt a little bad for leaving his lover to sort out the mess. He wanted to protest, to lay his palm over those beautiful amber eyes and coax the adeptus into sleeping with him. literally. He wanted to dream with him, as they seldom did. He wanted to stay up and watch Zhongli sleep for a short while...
But a human, Ajax was, and he was prone to exhaustion from a night of passion. Unfair, again, but he hadn't the energy to argue. So the harbinger relented and shut his eyes, the very last thing he saw being the gentle face of the god he called a lover.
And through the comforting dark beckoning him to slumber, he overheard a beautiful, soothing, tender voice. "May your dreams be blessed, my dear."
Ah, the bustling markets of Liyue Harbour. Childe could never tire of it.
It was warm out here—perhaps too warm—and the commotion of sellers trying to promote their wares offered him little opportunity for private thought. Not when there was a sea of people to surf through and trinkets to peruse at his leisure.
Seldom were the chances that the harbinger had free time to spare, and rarer were the instances when he spent it alone. He must admit, it was rather strange to not have a sturdy, golden presence by his side strolling the harbour with him, but alas, for Zhongli was busy with something in the funeral parlour, and thus had casted Childe out to spend his lunch in solitude.
Oh, woe is he; could the harbinger possibly make it to sunset without speaking a single word to his dearly beloved?
He slowed to a stop by a stall decorated with colourful banners and cluttered boards. The characters written boldly above his head were near illegible, though from a brief gander around what was displayed, Childe couldn’t help pausing for curiosity’s sake. Beaded bracelets and gold rings, studded earrings and chain necklaces. Pendants, charms, collars for pets and all the like. A jeweller's store, was it?
"Ah, you seem to have quite the eye for treasure," said a voice from behind the table of offerings. It was a man dressed in typical Mondstadtan attire, though less typical was his adornment of silver and gold on his person. "What say you, young man? Care to tell me your story? Perhaps I can interest you with a gift for whom your heart belongs."
A man with words to weave intrigue, it seemed. Alright. Childe supposed he had time to kill.
A sweep of his eyes brought his attention to a particularly radiant looking bracelet, one bedazzled with yellow stones hooked into a thin silver chain. The harbinger pointed a finger towards it.
"Tell me about this one."
"Hmm, yes, the silver has been mined right from the Chasm, refined and processed by the hands of Liyue's most skilled artisans. The cor lapis, too, was sourced from Jueyun Karst. Should you choose to gift this to someone, I believe it would suit those with a clear heart and boundless ambition, as symbolised by the Chasm's depths as well as the sky-piercing peaks of the adepti’s domain."
Interesting. Childe hummed along and pointed to another article, this time a bronze bangle with intricate carvings. "And this?"
The man's explanation prattled past his ears. The harbinger cared little for the details of exaggerated tales. If Zhongli were here, he would've folded his arms and corrected every mistake like a stern teacher would for a simple essay. The adeptus had that air to him. He was meticulous and particular with history, and he was ruthless with those he caught embellishing anything regarding the distant past for monetary gain.
Perhaps Childe had picked up a few of his lover's quirks, for he found himself smirking as the seller ended his tale all too proudly. He was far too eager to state the price, and the harbinger fought to not roll his eyes.
"What about this one?" he asked, pointing his finger to a leather collar sewn together with gold stitching. A quiet chuckle sneaked past his lips, finding amusement in the thought of just what heroic deeds had created this.
But the man merely paused and rubbed the back of his head. "Oh, well, that is merely a fine piece I happened upon on my travels around Fontaine. A sturdy, yet fashionable, collar for any pet."
Really? Childe let out a real laugh at that. He appreciated the smidge of honesty. "It certainly looks quite intricate for a simple dog's collar."
"Indeed. Fontaine does have a culture of taking pets. They are quite popular, and even have events hosted in showing them off. I'm sure you've heard of the numerous pageants and competitions Fontaine hosts from time to time."
That he has. Like their annual Fontinalia Film Festivals, or Liyue's Lantern Rite. Such events would be difficult to keep out of the loop on.
Childe crossed his arms and hooked a finger under his chin. He supposed it wouldn't hurt to linger, before deciding to loiter. The selections here do look enticing, no matter their historical significance.
Dear Tsaritsa, Zhongli really was rubbing off on him, was he?
Because he was nice—and because he was a great boyfriend—Childe made haste for home once he was finished with his duties for the day.
It was awful, really. Zhongli would usually leave the funeral parlour by sunset, and yet here Childe was, walking the streets sans the consultant by his side. Perhaps a lot of people had died recently.
But it was no matter, for Childe was sane enough to connect the dots spanning into the near future. Talking to so many grieving souls all day, his lover must surely be tired once he was free from work. So it was the harbinger's duty, as his dearest, bestest, most faithful boyfriend, to whip up dinner and await his arrival home. After all, Zhongli had done the same for him many a times in the past. He had tended to Childe's wounds and offered him words of praise on a job well done. He had looked at him with such fondness, such love. And not to mention the sweet, loving, passionate sex—
The door creaked open just as Childe was about to finish that thought, so he quickly banished it in favour of focussing on the present. He kept an ear out as he stirred the pot of soup. Tapping, skirting, a click of the lock. Shuffling feet, rustling fabric...
"Welcome back," Childe greeted with a beaming grin, allowing his mask to fall as he peered past his shoulder. "How're you feeling?"
"I am quite alright, Ajax," Zhongli assured from the living room. He looked pristine, as always. Not a hair out of place. Although, his voice sounded just a tad bit quieter than usual. "Just a little worn, is all. I apologise for not joining you earlier today for lunch. Director Hu and I had been caught up with a particularly particular client."
"It's fine. I'm just glad you're home. Besides, I even did a bit of shopping without you around. You're becoming a terrible influence, Zhongli. That's a joke, by the way."
The adeptus hummed and approached his lover, stopping to rest his chin on Ajax's shoulder. His arms hung limp by his sides, his eyes barely open, his posture slack. It was an odd look for a man often radiating poise and composure. He didn't even ask about Ajax's day.
He always asked about his day.
"Tired?" Ajax mused, though he already knew the answer.
Zhongli barely made a sound, opting merely to sigh and press himself flush against his lover's back.
Oh, the poor thing. The harbinger twisted his neck to plant a soft kiss to brunette hair. How rare it was to find the adeptus exhausted, to find any adeptus drained of energy.
Abandoning the pot of stew for a moment, Ajax turned to take his lover in an embrace, enough to squeeze the tension out of his bones. He peppered kisses wherever he could reach; be it his lover's cheeks, his forehead, his neck, or between his weary eyes.
"Ajax, please, if you wouldn't mind. I would prefer to retire early for the night."
Of course, of course. He hadn't been thinking of going much further at all.
Ajax laid a hand atop his lover's head and guided him downward, planting one last kiss to his forehead.
"Dinner's ready. Just some vegetable stew that's easy on the stomach. Have a bowl before you shower, alright? I'll join you in bed," he insisted.
And it was with a fond smile that Zhongli regarded him, leaning flush against Ajax's chest as if he were the anchor keeping him from drifting away. Truly, if ever there was a moment like this, the harbinger would be remiss to leave his lover alone to sway and stumble. There seemed to be a lot in his mind, if the way his silence was any indication, yet Ajax was tactful to not probe. Perhaps his lover was in one of his sentimental moods again.
"Ajax, if I could have a word with you."
Oh, dear. That didn't bode well. Had the harbinger forgotten to collect the mail? No, surely not.
Sat on the couch in the living room as he was, book in hand and legs pulled up to the armrest, Ajax looked up towards Zhongli as he emerged from the bedroom.
"Sure, what is it?" Ajax asked, folding the corner of the page before he closed his book. Just what could've possibly warranted that ”We need to talk” phrase from Zhongli?
The adeptus was dressed in loose clothing. His hair, too, was left untied and free to sprawl down his back. From the earlier commotions Ajax had overheard, he must have finally woken up just now—barely in time for noon to strike the clock. Out of character... but understandable given last night's most palpable exhaustion.
Zhongli pointed his eyes to the floor as he approached. His footsteps were light and precise, as steady as a calm human heartbeat. "I have a request to make of you," he started, "though it may come off as sudden and bold."
Oh? Now Ajax was truly interested. Had his lover encountered a horrible dream where the harbinger unfaithfully cheated on him? How awful. That would explain Zhongli's strange behaviour.
"Anything. Just say the word." Ajax swung his feet off the armrest and straightened up, patting a hand on the empty spot of the couch.
The adeptus seemed both hesitant and insistent, somehow, taking Ajax's invitation and sitting beside him, though Zhongli spent a moment of silence as he pondered over something. He stared at his own hands laid atop his lap, thinking, and thinking, and thinking still.
"Hey, come on, don't get stuck in your head." Ajax placed his book aside before cupping his lover's cheek. He rubbed gentle circles with his thumb, willing whatever plight that was plaguing Zhongli to dispel. Despite the obvious seriousness settling upon the atmosphere, the harbinger tried letting a few jokes out to ease the mood. "Let me guess, you're thinking that we should take a vacation?"
"No, that is not it," Zhongli denied.
"Then, you saw something in the market recently that you really, really want?"
"No."
"Hmm; did you finally snap and decide you can't deal with Hu Tao anymore?"
"That is—no, nothing of the sort." A bizarre shift in tone fell upon Zhongli, but it was quickly snuffed out as he turned to face Ajax. "I am merely... Well, it is simply that I have been observing you while in bed, and the time we spend together on the following morning. Our dynamic has not changed at all since we started, has it? And while I would hesitate to assume, I believe it cathartic to voice out that... were you open to the idea, I am interested in further exploring our preferences."
"O-oh..." Okay? Well, he could have worded it a little better, but Ajax reckoned he understood regardless. Zhongli was right, it was a fair bit sudden. Ajax hadn't at all expected such a conversation at noon on an innocent, unassuming weekend. Forgive him for being momentarily stunned.
But still, he, too, was open. Though their relationship was fairly young—and intimacy still quite a novel experience for the both of them—Ajax was nothing if not a warrior for his loved ones' happiness. They need only speak, and he shall listen intently, as any soldier would for their king.
So he waved a hand to motion for Zhongli to continue; and when silence was his answer, the harbinger asked in turn, "What're you thinking of, then?"
"I am not sure," the adeptus admitted, casting his gaze to the wall behind Ajax. "As you are aware, the adepti are not well-acquainted with the act of indulging in physical pleasure for the sake of it. I had merely resolved to open this discussion for your mortal input."
"My mortal input, huh?" Well, the harbinger had a great many suggestions he could think of should it be desired, but that might be too much for now. If it was a change in dynamic, well, he supposed he'd always been on the receiving end. There could be much to explore on that front. Or perhaps Zhongli was looking for a different experience instead? A wholly different way of seeking pleasure...
"Say, Zhongli, how much do you know about kinks?" Ajax wondered, tipping his head to the side. "Have you ever, you know, done a scene?"
Amber eyes squinted in thought, as if they were sifting through millenia's worth of memories in a flash. "I can't say that I have, for I do not seem to recognise what you mean by a 'scene'."
Ah, then this must be it. Like a star given out for a job well done, Ajax preened and lowered his hand to hold his lover's own, bare of their gloves and free to touch without a barrier between them. "Alright, then I guess we can start there. Think of a scene as like... a place, or a stretch of time where and when we play around. It sounds strange, I know, but that's the best I can explain without showing it to you."
The harbinger couldn't give an example if he tried, for his young age had mostly been swallowed up by the battlefield. He hadn't the interest to seek out a partner purely for sex, nor had he the time. His body often thrummed with bloodlust more so than anything else, anyway.
Besides, though his reputation may be twisted and frilled, Tartaglia was not a womaniser. It was more that he enjoyed riling people up, rather than flirting.
"Would you be keen on doing that?" Zhongli asked. "I find myself curious."
"Now?" Was he serious?
"If it is not too much trouble. We are free for the entire day, are we not?"
"This doesn't have anything to do with how tired you were last night, does it?" Oh, but Ajax caught it, that barely-there huff and pointed stare. So that could've been the trigger. "Aww, Zhongli, you silly dragon. Alright, I'm in. There's a lot we need to talk about before starting, though. It might be a bore for you. Are you sure you don't want to just sleep the rest of the day off?"
"I have slept plenty," the adeptus insisted, seemingly emboldened by his lover's enthusiasm. "If there are no further qualms, then please, continue, Ajax."
And so he did—so they did. Upon the harbinger's insistence, they had relocated to their shared bedroom, drawing the curtains and closing the door, sealing them off to their own little world. It helped to ease the tension, wherever that may be, and Ajax soon returned to join his lover's side on the foot of their bed.
They talked; about anything they would like to try, anything they might like to introduce. Ajax was the one contributing the most, for his utter lack of shame contrasted like stark black and blistering white against Zhongli's modesty over most things intimacy. Heck, the look on the adeptus' face when Ajax briefly mused on tying him up with rope was hilarious, and also quite the eye-opener.
At that point, the harbinger toned himself down, taking heed to ask his lover more of his desires instead. It was his proposition, after all. It would be poor form for Ajax to take charge.
"Perhaps you wouldn't mind taking charge, my love?"
Haha, how fate loved to mess with him.
"I could think of no better person to lead me as we explore our relationship," the adeptus said.
"I'm far from a well of knowledge," Ajax chuckled. Zhongli would be far better off going to a shop selling adult toys for advice—or education. "I mean, I have common sense, and we don't have to go too far, but don't you go praising me as some sort of sex god. That's probably an actual thing somewhere in Teyvat."
"I highly doubt so." Zhongli flattened his lips to a thin line at the remark.
Ajax refrained from asking further on that.
"Do you want it to go to sex?"
"Does it... not have to?"
"Not always."
"Oh, then, if that is what you desire, I have no objections." Zhongli fell his eyes shut before leaning in to lay his forehead on his lover's shoulder. A strange sight, though not absurd. Ajax found himself winding an arm around the adeptus' waist to keep him steady, lending his own body as an anchor.
"I feel quite drained, Ajax," sighed the tired, old god. His voice was pitched an odd timbre, far from the resolute firmness befitting his beauty and outwardly perfection. "I have seen how your behaviour shifts in bed at times, how you seem so distant and content in your mind, as if you haven't a thought to bear. I cannot say that I have ever experienced such a state for myself—if it is even possible for me to achieve—but..."
So that's what this really was. Poor dragon. Ajax understood perfectly now. Even a god could grow weary of time's constant barrage. It wouldn't be surprising for even stone to crumble and flake from too much pressure. No matter be it small, those bad days would add up over the millenia like a ticking time-bomb of sorts. The harbinger had seen it all too commonly among the fresher recruits taken in by the Fatui. Many would toss their mask before the first month, and most would break before the year concluded.
Zhongli might need an outlet. Any outlet. Perhaps he thought giving up control and allowing others to make decisions for him would be just the outlet he needed, or craved.
And it made sense; for a god as powerful as he, having stood as the pillar, the ideal, the unshakeable will of Liyue for thousands of years, could anyone blame him for wanting a break from his position? What was it Ajax had read? That dreams and sexual preferences reflected issues or experiences from everyday life?
"Sure. I'll help you feel all nice and floaty," the harbinger promised. With the late Geo Archon as his witness, Ajax formed his vow with his very heart. Unnecessary, perhaps, but wholly genuine. He would never take such things lightly, not when his lover was baring himself mentally. It was news to Ajax, and new for them both.
So the harbinger tapped a finger to his cheek and thought long and hard. If he were the one in charge, he would most definitely keep things simple, at least for now. No matter if the prospect of tying Zhongli up, or blindfolding him, or Celestia forbid, toying with him for hours upon hours sent a lustful shiver through Ajax's spine, he shall swallow these fantasies and focus on the task at hand.
He started with the basics, those which he had read on... spicier novels he had come across.
"You know what being submissive means, right?"
"I am familiar with the term, yes." The adeptus worried his bottom lip for a mere second. "Shall I take on that role for this 'scene'?"
If that was how he interpreted it, then sure. Ajax nodded firmly. He would not confuse his lover with unnecessary trivial details.
"Then, in contrast, you shall be the dominant?"
"You don't have to put a clear label on it, you know? You're making it sound like a rank of some sort." A chuckle snuck past the harbinger at that, but he swiftly choked it down. "Since I'll be in charge, or the dominant, as you call it, I'll take care of the both of us. All you've got to do is be honest, alright? While I have been paying attention to your tells, I haven't really got you pinned down. You're still difficult to read, Zhongli."
While that remark admittedly came off like an admission, the harbinger took it in stride, shooting his lover a beaming grin that spoke of confidence and conviction. "I'll have you all figured out one day, just you wait, lyubimy. Then I'll know when you're actually laughing, or just humouring my jokes."
"But I always find your jokes entertaining," Zhongli said, like the blockhead he was. He even raised his head to meet his lover's eyes.
Ajax tapped his finger to the adeptus' forehead. "Not the point. So, are we in agreement? We can talk about what you want further after lunch. I don't know about you, but I'm starving! You can think about it while we eat."
Lunch, they decided, would be an indoor affair.
A simple spread of dishes laid carefully arranged on the dining table. Vegetables, soups, and twin bowls of rice. Nothing hearty for an easy day.
Ajax dragged his chair to sit beside Zhongli, uncaring for the exasperated huff he received.
"Please lift your chair up instead of ruining the floors, Ajax," the adeptus chided.
"It's fine, our chairs have got socks on," the harbinger waved off.
They ate in relative silence, the comforting sort that stirred no tension in the air. Zhongli served them both a cup of tea with a flick of his wrist, hovering the teapot in a shimmering, golden aura matching the glow of his hands. The veins reaching down into his sleeve seemed to radiate a faint shine, too, like glowing ink seeping down the deeper grooves of a tree trunk.
Zhongli kept his eyes affixed to his cup of tea, staring into his own rippling reflection rather than running his mouth on any particular topic he had in mind. It seemed he was taking Ajax's suggestion seriously, using the time to think and ponder and grow his curiosity.
But by the time noon had long passed, the adeptus remained in a conundrum. "I am still not certain..." he mumbled aloud, scratching a finger under his chin as they began to clear the dishes.
Ajax took the bowls and made quick work with cleaning them, all whilst Zhongli set about drying them and putting them away.
The harbinger let a moment of silence fall between them, giving himself time to think as well, and for his lover to add anything else. The faucet was soon shut before Ajax towelled his hands dry, turning around to lean against the counter.
"Alright, then how about this; for the rest of today, or for however long you want, you'll have to obey everything I tell you," he suggested.
Amber eyes locked in with his own duller, blue pair. "Everything?"
"Everything," affirmed the harbinger. "No ifs, ands, or buts. No objections or questions, unless it's to clarify something. And if there's anything you really don't want to do, we'll have a way to signal for that. That should be simple enough for now, right?"
The adeptus dwelled upon his suggestion, just as he would study a great historical artefact. It was endearing, if not somewhat amusing, watching an ancient god stew over playing the role of what was essentially a servant.
"The terms are agreeable," Zhongli concluded after a while. "However, I must ask just what sort of orders will you demand of me? I do hope it isn't anything too compromising."
Ajax allowed himself a soulful laugh. Did his lover think him as insane as a sadist? Well, probably, but certainly not towards those he cared about. He would sooner turn his blade unto himself than point it towards his family. "Nothing will leave these walls," the harbinger vowed. "Like I said, we'll keep it simple for now. I won't demand anything; well, unless you're into that. And if you enjoy yourself, I won't mind if we do more of this further in the future."
It was a marvel how his lover's eyes shined with a bizarre emotion. It was something Ajax wasn't fully accustomed to yet. Trust, was it? Unconditional, unfettered trust. It was a beautiful sight to behold, no matter if it roused a strange emotion from deep within his chest in response.
Akin to being gifted a bubble, or a leaf, or paper so thin he could see right through it. A fragile yet palpable thing he couldn't deny the existence of, something Ajax ought to learn to properly handle in spite of how hard his hands would tremble.
If Zhongli thought it worth to place such trust in Ajax's cold-blooded hands, then the harbinger swore his oath to his god that he would do right by him.
Outwardly, however, Ajax exuded a calm demeanour to not formalise this. Intimacy, he felt, wasn't an act, nor should it be a maze of stone walls to navigate. He raised a hand to pat his lover's shoulder, taking note of Zhongli's posture, how rigid and stiff it was.
"Come on," Ajax coaxed. "I think I have something that might help."
Hand in hand, he led his lover back to their bedroom. No pretences, no exuberance, no pause for dramatic effect. The harbinger guided Zhongli to sit on the bed before he scurried to the closet to dig around for what he sought. His fingers found it swiftly from fresh memory, ghosting over the smooth material of a box stashed behind his Fatui uniform and coats.
He brought it out without a flourish, closing the closet door with an elbow as he presented the box to Zhongli. It was an earthy brown that matched his hair, adorned with gold etchings along the sides. It sat comfortably on the adeptus's lap, who stared at it curiously, fondly, perhaps the slightest bit cautiously.
"Go on," Ajax urged, "open it!"
And so Zhongli did, with all the grace of an ancient, patient god. He slipped the lid off slowly, like a grand reveal, and what laid inside was certainly not when he must be expecting.
"Ajax," the adeptus' voice was deceptively level, yet his confusion was evident through his furrowed brows, "are you trying to imply something with this collar?"
Must he sound so scandalised? Ajax choked down his laughter behind a fist, calming himself before he explained, "I just bought this yesterday at the market. Honestly, I was playing around with the idea of us adopting a cat, or something, but now that I really think of it, it'll probably die within a week with how busy we get."
His morbid humour did not phase Zhongli at all. In fact, the adeptus joined in with his amusement and allowed himself a weak smile. "Well, I would much prefer your hydro creations if that were the case. I find them just as charming, if not more, considering they are an extension of your creativity."
Oh, that silly dragon, turning a joke into a compliment.
"That's irrelevant," Ajax brushed off. "Anyway, I suppose if you don't mind, we can use the collar to tell when a scene starts and ends. So long as you wear it, you'll know that you have to listen to me. Think of it as... like a mask of sorts, a reminder; something that'll help you immerse yourself."
"Ah, I see." The lid was turned upside down and fitted under the box. "I hold no arguments to that arrangement, though I must admit I am a little hesitant on the collar. The suggestion seems rather possessive in nature."
Understandable; however, "That's kind of the point," Ajax said. "It's to drive in the feeling. At least, I think it is. We can find something else if you want."
A moment of silence, then an all-encompassing sigh.
"No need. I am open to this as you are. Shall I put it on now?"
Though gold-tipped fingers reached for the collar, Ajax took them in hand to stall him. He shook his head and leaned over his lover, casting a dim shadow as he laid his forehead against the adeptus'.
"I'll do it," he said, dipping his voice low to match the still air between them. Despite the intimacy of their shared space, he found it in himself to tease. "No need to rush into things, Zhongli. That's quite out of character for you. Are you that eager to be my pet?"
Oh, was that sudden, and the adeptus' reaction was quite the shock. Amber eyes shot wide open, as if they had witnessed—heard—blasphemy of the most startling kind. Like a fox at spearpoint, Zhongli stared agape for what seemed to be an eternity, as if his mind was at a blank and his body had turned to stone.
Was that too much for him? Ajax certainly hoped not.
But then Zhongli twisted his face away, hiding his eyes behind his long fringe. His lips were pressed to a thin, flat line, twitching at the corners as if he were fighting against either a revolted frown or a guilty grin. It was hard to discern.
"That—well, I suppose..." His words teetered and faltered in the most adorable way. It truly was a sight to behold. Ajax couldn't help a teasing smirk from blooming across his cheeks as his lover scrambled to compose himself. Oh, to fluster Zhongli, the ever poised consultant, the prime of the adepti, the once Geo Archon. Such a fascinating achievement to boast. Was it always this easy?
The adeptus did nothing to Ajax's smug grin. He failed to meet his gaze at all. Though emotions ran wild for the old, endearing blockhead, there was no denying the faint blush rising on his cheeks.
"Alright, alright, I'm just kidding." Ajax laughed as he took his place by Zhongli's side, leaning back onto his arms whilst he tipped his head up toward the ceiling. For once, it was the harbinger's turn to wait for his lover to collect himself, to count the seconds not because he was impatient, but because he was curious to see just how embarrassed Zhongli was by his throwaway tease. It might mean something that Ajax could make use of; it might not. He merely found it so amusing that his heart quickened its pace.
"Ah, thank you, Ajax. I'm fine now," Zhong said, whilst looking quite the mess still. Outwardly, he had managed to cool himself off, but Ajax could see past his paper-thin mask.
He let it slide, however, in favour of sitting up and offering a hand to his lover. Patient as a saint, tender as a mild breeze, the harbinger held his faithful gaze upon radiant amber eyes.
"May I?"
"By all means."
The box was taken to Ajax's lap, and the collar lifted with both hands like a crown of sorts. He held it up for both their eyes, gold and sapphire, to inspect thoroughly. The band was made of thick leather and stitched with gold silk, plain yet practical. Its colour was a deep ochre matching Zhongli's hair right down to its shade. The buckle was a clear silver polished to a mirror-like sheen which reflected a distorted world.
It was as if the stars had fated the adeptus to wear it, ridiculous as that may sound. It could not be overstated how Ajax swelled his chest with pride, like a magpie having found the perfect shiny.
Unbuckling the strap, the harbinger leaned closer. "Pull your hair up for me?"
And his lover obeyed wordlessly, gathering his hair into one hand before lifting it away from his neck.
Carefully, near reverently, Ajax looped the collar around Zhongli's neck, pausing to test the give before he slotted the end through the buckle. "Is it too tight?"
The adeptus tipped his head to the side, then back, then forward, before fitting two fingers snug into the empty space. "It feels fine," he answered.
"Good." The harbinger rewarded his lover with a chaste kiss to his forehead. "Oh, and one more thing. I mentioned this before, but not in detail; if ever there's a time you want to take a break or stop completely, just tell me your safeword. It can be anything you want, just not something you would typically say in bed. I'll know to stop and check up on you if I hear it."
"A safeword?" The word was tested on Zhongli's tongue, as if it were a truly foreign concept. "Yet another thing I am unfamiliar with. Just where have you learned this, Ajax?"
Dull, blue eyes carried no emotion. "I guess porn can be good for something."
Zhongli averted his gaze once again, taking a gulp of air which made his throat fit snug against his collar. "I see. Then, if it is not too simple… would the word 'Chrysos' suffice?"
That... was not the common tongue, nor was it Liyuean, but, "Sure, we'll use that, then." Ajax supposed there were more obscure words Zhongli could've picked.
With the matter settled, and his resolve set in stone, the harbinger fitted the clasp of the collar at last. Leaning back against an arm, Ajax let out a whistle as he marvelled at the beautiful pairing of ocre and gold.
A god donning an article as demeaning as a leather collar, one made seemingly in his image. Heat began to bubble inside Ajax as he stared, wide-eyed and mystified, shameless in what might come across as ogling.
Yes, this will do very nicely.
Patience was a virtue, they said.
'They' being long-dead faces whom Ajax held no opinions toward, and thus he heeded only the sentence by its own merit.
Yes, indeed. In many cases, patience would serve him well. Reconnaissance, meditation, even ice fishing. Time rewarded those willing to trade plenty of it.
And that was why the harbinger refrained from acting impulsively. After fitting the collar to his lover's neck, Ajax had spent an admittedly embarrassing amount of time admiring the position they found themselves in. Rarely was he ever above the former Geo Archon in any circumstance, so forgive the harbinger for wanting to savour it; and for wanting Zhongli to adjust properly.
"Come here, lyubimy."
Ajax made grabby hands for his lover to approach, a childish gesture which went disregarded. From the kitchen where Zhongli emerged with a bowl of sliced fruits, he made no comments as he obeyed the harbinger's demand, or request, or plea...
It was something, at least. It was an order nonetheless.
So the adeptus sat where Ajax guided him, on the couch at his side, to be pulled in for a suffocating embrace. Touchy was the harbinger who leaned far back against the armrest, saved from a mess of spilled fruits by a levitating bowl shimmering with adeptal magic. Like a greedy leech, he pulled Zhongli flush against his chest, back to front, taking a wrist in gentle hold so he could rub circles onto the back of his golden hand.
"Is this necessary?" Zhongli asked, voicing his befuddlement for the first time since they'd started. Being stared at, asked to stand, to unbutton the top of his shirt, then to prepare a bowl of apples and sunsettias... It had certainly been a bizarre hour.
Ajax was quick to tut him, however. "Ah ah ah, no questions, remember?"
A quiet sigh was let out. "I mean no offence, my dear. I am merely wondering why someone of your character would choose to begin our arrangement with such tame requests."
"Careful there. From the tone of your voice, I'm not sure whether that's an insult or a provocation. Are you trying to incite something, Zhongli?"
"That depends on what your answer might be."
Sneaky dragon, wanting the truth outright. Alright. Ajax was generous enough to bite. "Hmm, well, can you fault me for wanting to be careful with you? God or not, you're clearly green in this. I am, too. So why don't we take our sweet time?"
Perhaps, if Ajax were in a more playful mood, he would feign heartbreak at the suggestion that his lover thought so lowly of him, that he would not hesitate to have his way with Zhongli no matter if it overwhelmed or hurt him—emotionally, mentally, psychologically. As if Ajax would dare.
He reached up to take a slice of apple from the floating bowl, pressing it gently to his lover's lips. "Less talking now. Eat up."
And it was with another sigh before Zhongli obliged.
"I suppose I'm using this as an excuse to spoil you," Ajax went on, feeding the adeptus another slice of fruit, "or maybe I'm really just taking this opportunity to ease you in. You can't train someone within a day, after all, and I may have a few ideas to try once you've settled into this."
Zhongli swallowed, though it wasn't out of nervousness or anticipation. "Is that so?"
"Mhm!" The harbinger laid his hand flat atop his lover's head next. "Now... how about you let your horns out to breathe? It's been a while since you relaxed your form."
About two months now, give or take. Ajax had counted the days since he last saw a pair of golden horns and a tufted tail and gorgeous scales lining the underside of amber eyes. The sheer beauty would never fade from his memories, like a brand ironed to his skin.
"Very well," said the dragon, slipping a hand under Ajax's who lifted it easily. At once, a golden glow emanated from his hairline, giving shape to two horns that curled inward over the top of his head. They shimmered like the finest cor lapis reflecting the beaming sun, prized more than the entirety of the Golden House and all its contents.
Ajax brushed his fingers over them, the thin layer of velvet as soft and pristine as ever. The body in his arms relaxed under his affections, breathing deeply, going limp, turning into something akin to a kitten finding a patch of warm sunlight.
"Better?" the harbinger asked, a mere whisper to Zhongli's ear.
"Quite so."
"That's good." He inlaid his praise with a kiss below his lover's jaw, right over the band of his collar. "No need to think about anything else, alright? Isn't that what you wanted?"
Ajax grazed the tips of his fingernails over one horn, a featherlight touch that sent a shudder through the adeptus. Zhongli couldn't seem to decide whether he wanted to squirm away or melt into it, so he tensed his body as if to will the shivers away.
That won't do. That won't do at all. So the harbinger continued his affections until Zhongli relaxed once again, stroking each horn with the barest brush of trimmed nails whilst keeping an arm wrapped tight around his waist. He continued until the adeptus no longer squirmed, until his voice grew soft with the sweetest sighs, until the tips of brunette hair began to pulse faintly with the glow of geo, matching the pace of Zhongli's breathing. If he were facing Ajax, the harbinger was certain his eyes would be sharing that same glow, too.
Like smothering a cat with regal attention, Ajax was shameless in indulging his own desires. He pressed the pads of his fingers to the base of Zhongli's horns, massaging the spot where silken velvet met with his scalp. He perched his chin atop the adeptus' shoulder. He mumbled sweet nothings to fill the ambience. Quiet sounds seeped into the air, shifting from human noises to that of more inhuman ones, like that of an illuminated beast—more specifically, a cross between a dragon and a qilin.
Rumbling purrs, chirruping whistles, something suspiciously close to a low, pleasant moan.
The body in Ajax's arms became a doll, no strings, no muscles, nor a will to move. It was only when he pressed another slice of fruit to parted lips did Zhongli understood the silent order to eat, and what a rush it was for the harbinger to witness. The adeptus chewed methodically, lazily, then swallowing before a noise bubbled up his throat. It brought attention to the collar around his neck, an occasional reminder against his skin.
It must have been hours before Zhongli settled comfortably into his role, no longer arching a brow or asking questions to Ajax's requests. The sun was shining directly through the windows now, warm to skin and clothes.
Warmer was the harbinger's body compared to his cold-blooded lover, who at this point welcomed whatever affections he was given. Doting kisses were peppered anywhere Ajax could reach, from the shell of Zhongli's ear, his dusted cheek, to the gold scales underneath his eyes seemingly splattered with stardust.
Such a beautiful sight, and Ajax couldn't even admire it properly. He poked a finger at his lover's temple. "Zhongli... are you awake?"
His response at first was a soothing sigh, straight from the soul. "I am."
Zhongli's voice carried an otherworldly timbre, as most of the other adepti who take on a beast form do. It was a little smoother, though, if that were at all possible. It was deep and rich and reverberated through Ajax like geo resonating with the earth. The mortal mask his lover wore had already begun to shed, leaving behind a man steadily looking more god than human.
"Do you want to get up now?" Ajax asked.
"Is that not your decision to make?"
Impressive. "You learn fast." The harbinger gave him a brief kiss. "If you keep it up, I'll make sure to reward you handsomely."
Zhongli hid a chuckle to his shoulder, opposite where Ajax rested his chin. "You are certainly enjoying yourself."
"How could I not? It's not everyday I get to pamper a dragon."
"A dragon-qilin," the adeptus corrected idly.
"Yes, yes, a dragon-qilin." Oh, how adorable it was that Zhongli was so particular about that. "Anyway, you're right; so, as your boss for today, I say we get up and move back to the bedroom!"
Had there been a malicious motive behind this, Ajax would have stopped them before even introducing his lover to the idea of a collar. If Zhongli had wanted a break from thinking, he needed only to affirm his desires when he found the harbinger's behaviour unsatisfactory.
It was a silent agreement between them; a gentlemens' rule, if it were, common sense between two lovers. In the privacy of each other's company, under the shared roof of their home, masks were allowed to be left at the door; encouraged, even. Here, they could be who they truly were—with slight exceptions, of course. Ajax, the human, and Zhongli, the mortal man. They needn't keep their guard up around each other, nor must they fear speaking their minds, for why else would they be together, if not because they loved the soul hidden behind their many, many layers?
So must it come as a surprise to Zhongli when Ajax wished for them to dance in their bedroom? A Fontanian dance, backed with orchestral music typical of the region's artistic operas from the gramophone on the dresser.
"I've been thinking of visiting there," Ajax remarked upon the adeptus' confuddled expression. "Just for a vacation. I heard they take their trials seriously, to the point that the whole capital is fueled by some powersource generated by them."
"It is indeed fascinating," Zhongli hummed, falling into step with the harbinger as he was led through the basic steps. "I didn't take you as the sort to enjoy dancing, Ajax. Have you always had a passion for theatre?"
Ajax guided him to a graceful spin, keeping his right hand firm on the small of his lover's back. "Ehh, I dabble. It's more of a useful hobby, just like ice fishing. Dancing is a lot like fighting, you know? It's all in the footwork and how well you can control your body. Helps with spatial awareness, too, among other things."
With his left hand linked with the adeptus' right hand, Ajax gave a light squeeze before taking him for a dip, right as the music reached its crescendo in a rise of trombones and strings.
"But theatre's also good." Musicals, operas, plays; grand or novice. The harbinger had a part of his heart dedicated to beautifully written stories.
Case in point: the look of sheer adoration painted on his lover's face. Stoic as Zhongli was, he had come to learn human gestures and emotions quite well. It was a slow progress with no deadline, yet the fruit it bore with every milestone was nothing short of ambrosia. Ajax could never tire of it; those amber eyes narrowed to crescents, that soft smile not at all forced or crooked, those tinted cheeks pairing well with gold scales, and the tips of brunette hair shimmering just as radiantly.
The harbinger had in his arms the statue of a god, one whom he refused to part with, and pulled back up to hold him close.
He swayed them both to the gentle music, guiding the adeptus to lay his forehead against his shoulder. Carding his fingers through brunette hair, Ajax could feel the thrum of geo flowing within every strand, like a faint vibration akin to an electro-charged wire.
Once the violins finally ended the track, a comfortable silence befell upon the two men. Ajax took a deep breath in, relishing in his lover's scent. Tea and silk flowers, a most magnificent blend. It was a stark contrast to the many ancient tales of Rex Lapis, of Morax, but it suited Zhongli perfectly. His elegance, his radiance, his unmatched knowledge, it paired well like blood and snow—or perhaps a bow and arrow would make for a better comparison?
"Ajax?"
"Hm?"
"Should we start on dinner?" Zhongli asked tentatively to the quiet. "I believe it is getting quite late."
Oh, was it? The harbinger hadn't noticed.
With a placating hum, Ajax stroked his lover's back. "Sure. What are you in the mood for?"
"I believe that is at your discretion."
"Good answer." The harbinger urged amber eyes to look at him before he connected their lips for a fond kiss. He pressed their foreheads together, breathing in the intimate space shared between them. "How about... I make us some fish stew? Would you eat it if I asked you to?"
That stirred a hesitation in Zhongli. He seemed to ponder over it, weighing his options far more seriously than he should.
Ajax offered him another kiss. "Remember, if there's anything you don't want to do, just use your safeword. There's no pressure at all."
Though Zhongli made no comment on that, Ajax knew that he had listened, for the adeptus let out a soothing purr, just as he always would when he was calm.
"I would hate to fall back on it often, especially for a thing as minor as seafood," he mumbled after a while of deliberation, letting his eyes fall shut as he lowered his head, almost as a gesture of submission. "If that is what you wish, Ajax, then I am in no position to argue."
"Now you're making me feel like a cruel boyfriend." Really, must Zhongli make it sound as if Ajax was holding him at spearpoint? As amusing as that image was, he would loathe to have it set a precedent. "I'm not going to shove squid down your throat, you know? I'm not shoving anything into you—unless you ask for it, I guess—but that's not the point. What I mean is that, well, you can just say no if you really don't feel like it. It's not a bother to me. If anything, it's just something to keep in mind."
Oh, but now a pair of amber eyes were regarding him as if he had spoken complete gibberish.
"Is our dynamic not currently that of I being your submissive, and thus the task of directing me is upon yourself? I would like to believe that we are both well-acquainted with our boundaries by now, and should place our trust in judging our own limits."
Well, shoot. Ajax supposed he had a point.
"Perhaps I got a little ahead of myself," he chuckled. "You're right. I should trust you more. I guess this just proves that we're both as green as Sumeru's jungle."
Zhongli planted a kiss between deep blue eyes. "There is no need to be apologetic. Come now, let's continue with our evening."
A part of Ajax wanted to tut his lover and remind him that he was the one in charge, but alas, he decided to let this instance slip without recourse.
So proceeded their evening just as planned. A dinner of stew and grilled meats and bread from the nearby bakery. It was a mix of flavours from two different nations, one frigid and bleak, and one temperate and bright. Nevertheless, Ajax was proud of his cooking as always—and perhaps he had made sure to dice the fish extra thin for his lover's sake. The Liyuean spices paired wonderfully well with the Snezhnayan sides of vareniki and pirozhki.
The table was set for two, arranged side by side rather than on opposite ends. Ajax took his seat on the left, whilst Zhongli to his right. As routine dictated; as they had learned was best. Zhongli held his chopsticks with his right hand, and Ajax held his fork with his left.
Night came around uneventfully; a blessing for both men. As during daytime, they finished their food and cleared their plates, trading conversation here and there whenever the mood struck.
But the topic, of course, related to their current arrangement, specifically to the collar Zhongli wore.
"Is it still comfortable to wear?" Ajax idly wondered. "I would think wearing leather around my own neck for hours would start to chafe my skin."
"I suppose it would, were I a mere ordinary mortal consultant, which I am." The harbinger rolled his eyes and hid a chuckle to that hackneyed gag. "However, having certain qualities resembling that of an adeptus grants me a few conveniences."
"Yeah, I already know you don't really sweat."
"I meant that my constitution is much more durable, my dear." Now it was Zhongli's turn to chuckle. "My skin will not 'chafe' so easily as you describe it. In fact, I am finding the collar to be a comforting presence. After becoming accustomed to its weight around my neck, I feel much more at ease, relating it to your instruction."
Was that so? Now the harbinger couldn't help but shuffle closer as they dried the dishes, leaning in with a teasing grin plastered on his face. "Are you telling me I've awoken something in you? Oh, lyubimy, of all the things to develop a kink for..."
"If I am not mistaken, a kink is merely a sexual preference, is it not? It would be as varied as there are individual shades of every colour. Is it so strange for me to enjoy this?"
"No, no, not at all," Ajax quickly assured. "I was just joking. I mean, that's quite the admission from you, considering we never tried many things in bed, but it's good. For what it's worth, I think you look really, really enticing with that collar."
The adeptus nuzzled his nose into the crook of Ajax's neck, letting out a pleased rumble.
"Your opinions are worth the stars."
Oh, that silly dragon. Ajax nudged his arm with an elbow, twisting his face away to save himself the embarrassment of a furious blush. "You're such a sap."
"For you, my love; only you."
"Okay, okay, stop that," before someone might spontaneously combust in a spark of electro. Although, the harbinger's Delusion sat dormant on his belt. It was his Vision—yes, his Vision, definitely not his eyes—which threatened to come alight, and Ajax was quick to play it off with a hearty laugh straight from his core. "Ugh, you're way too good with words when you get all sentimental. I swear, you could make a geovishap swoon with just your voice alone."
"I will not comment on that hypothetical."
"No, seriously, stop that." Silly, cryptic Zhongli and his silly, cryptic implications. Ajax could hardly tell fallacy from reality with him like this.
They carried on with their nightly routine, spending the hours together, practically conjoined by the arms. Ajax didn't dare let a single moment pass without his lover by his side, taking liberty to adopt a firm tone of voice as he asked, or ordered, the adeptus to stay close.
By the time it came to retire for the night, it was the harbinger who took Zhongli's wrist as they changed into a set of comfortable nightwear.
For once—in Celestia's name—Ajax fetched his own clothes for his lover to wear, holding it out before the adeptus as if it were something to be presented, and then accepted.
And Zhongli didn't seem to readily accept what was presented to him.
"These are yours, Ajax."
"Mhm."
"Do you wish for me to wear them?"
"Yup." The last syllable was sounded with a pop. Ajax pressed his clothes into his lover's arms as he held his gaze. "Maybe I want to be greedy and see you in my clothes."
That earned him an amused snort. "And you comment on my dragon-half being possessive, despite Liyuean depictions bearing no such trait."
The harbinger shooed him off playfully. "Less backchat, more putting my clothes on! And be careful with your horns!"
Shaking his head, Zhongli obliged without another word. It was a swift ordeal getting ready for bed, even if the adeptus felt no urge to sleep. Habit spurred him into joining his human lover either way, if not to dream with him, then to watch over him, to admire a face purely relaxed and devoid of hunger.
Ajax had long grown used to it; being stared at whilst he slept by a pair of ancient eyes that shined like twin stars. Perhaps it would've unnerved anyone else, but at this point, the harbinger simply couldn't rest easy without Zhongli around anymore. He couldn't even imagine laying in bed alone. Such was a heart of muscle and blood branded with a god's loyalty; and such was a core of cor lapis carved with a human's love.
But before they could properly lie down and toss the covers over themselves, Ajax placed a hand to Zhongli's chest.
"We should probably take that off now," he said, casting the collar a momentary glance.
Zhongli looked down upon himself, then back to Ajax. "Ah, of course. I had almost forgotten about it."
What a silly dragon he was. But Ajax was glad he found it nice enough to completely disregard it from his attention.
Just as carefully as when he fitted it on, the harbinger unbuckled the strap and removed the leather collar, cupping a hand to the adeptus' neck to massage the warm skin. Zhongli was right, there didn't seem to be any reddened patches or tender spots, nor did he flinch as Ajax drew light circles over the bob of his throat, just where the buckle had sat for hours..
"Well?" The question came off casually, without any of the authoritative tone Ajax had donned throughout the day. "How was it?"
"In all honesty, I feel that today was rather uneventful," Zhongli hummed, tipping his head to the side so the harbinger could slip his hand to his shoulder next. "But even if it wasn't strenuous, I enjoyed myself nonetheless. I suppose you are right in starting off easy for now. Your directions are firm yet forgiving. I would very much like to explore this dynamic further with you."
"That's good to hear. I hope you got to relax from yourself." The collar was returned to its box, having been left abandoned on the nightstand since morning. The lid was then shut over it, closing the curtains to this 'scene' at last. "Since you want to do this again, maybe next time, once we're both a bit more used to this, we can take it a few steps further."
"I would like that."
So it was decided, then. A bubble of anticipation began to stir within Ajax, but he schooled himself before it got a ways ahead. There will be time in the near future, plenty of it, and there will be lots of things to learn about each other then. They needn't rush, for there wasn't a finish line. The harbinger could temper his excitement for the sake of that.
Off to bed he went, tucked into the covers with loving hands. Guarded by an immortal, reverent, loyal dragon-qilin, Ajax found sleep all too easily.
And in his dreams, beset under a golden sky, floating islands, and crisp, trimmed grass, he laid sprawled in the open fields with his head pillowed on a god's lap. A god with shimmering horns and brunette hair dipped with gold, bearing arms made of geo and branded with intricate sigils. He was a hooded figure carding through Ajax's hair which stirred a flutter in his dream-heart, and it was here, alone together, where he found his solace.