aurellya

[aurellya]

I Love(d) You—And Still Do

❀ Tartali | Oneshot | Actors!AU, Fluff

Summary:

“Zhongli, tell me, why were you avoiding me back then?”

“I simply did not wish to cause your reputation harm. The media—”

“I couldn't care less about what the damn media says.” Childe scoffs, stepping forward and placing a hand on the rails of the bridge they’d stopped upon, caging the other in place, “Xiansheng, did you really think you could get rid of me that easily?”

Once had been enough. And if this Zhongli still loved him…

In the past, he’d let go of their love much too easily. Let outside words and even his own pride tear them apart and keep them separated on parallel paths that would never meet again.

Now, as fate grants them another chance, Childe knows his answer.

The rising foreign star and Liyue's most beloved meet, clash, and reunite—painted as rivals by the media, with few knowing their true relationship. And as they begin to spend more time together, memories of the past return, realisations are made, and feelings finally revealed as well as shamelessly confessed in public.

[Originally posted here on AO3]

Gods, he really should’ve checked the booking information again. Childe sighs as he rushes down the halls, boots clicking against the ground with each hurried step that he could only hope was taking him in the right direction. It had been, what, days since the interview? The darned event that had torn a rift between himself and the man he’d thought was a friend.

“So, Childe, how was working with Zhongli? Especially since this is one of your first big jobs in the industry.” The interviewer had asked all too innocently, looking between the two with a bright smile and microphone held out expectantly.

But Childe recognised the trap easily, having seen the headlines countless times, ridiculous as they are. ‘Childe and Zhongli, the Clash of New and Old’, ‘Snezhnaya’s Rising Star and Liyue’s Heartthrob—What’s Between Them?’.

It was almost comical watching the media struggle to choose between painting a picture of rivalry or something so much more. If only they knew…

“Zhongli-xiansheng is indeed deserving of his title as Liyue’s best.” The words had left his lips easily, a smile thrown in the mentioned man’s direction as he continued, “Yanwang Dijun is certainly a character to anticipate the appearance of, and I’m sure everyone will be satisfied with the performance.”

Yanwang Dijun, the Stonelord Sovereign. What a fitting title for the man who’d once been a god himself—in another life, that is. A god who was supposed to have been as steady as the earth he embodied.

“You flatter me, Tartaglia.” A familiar title, and one that stung . After all, it had been the very name called in their final moments together. 

A farewell neither of them had wished for.

It’s almost funny, really. How they’d stood on seemingly opposing sides back then and continued to do so even now. First as a mortal harbinger and his god who’d lived longer than many could ever hope to, and now a rising newcomer and the well-versed veteran who had been considered his goal to overthrow the popularity of. 

Polar opposites, ones that fate seemed to enjoy bringing together only to separate again and again. Just as Zhongli did that very day when a mask of indifference placed itself upon his face the moment the cameras turned off. Not a single text followed even as days, weeks even, passed by.

Had the companionship they’d built over the months of filming simply been a lie?

And of course Zhongli had to be the very person he was looking for in the maze of a hotel at the very moment, with Childe even making his way past the crowd that had set up camp at the main entrance hoping to catch even a glimpse of the man. Who would have expected that in his attempt to leave, he’d run into a horde of his own die-hards.

Another corner is turned, and another, and another. With each one, the sound of footsteps following and whispers of ‘ where did he go? ’ only grow louder.

Until, all of a sudden, Childe finds himself pulled into a room, barely having time to register the door creaking open before it is slammed shut once more—his back pressed against it. On reflex, he twists the arm of the one who had grabbed him and huffs as their positions are reversed and it is the other who is now pressed against the door.

“Who are y— Zhongli?” Golden eyes stare back at him, wide with surprise but otherwise calm. Almost too calm. But what else was he supposed to expect from Zhongli of all people? 

Beautiful, perfect Zhongli who had barely even bat an eye as he’d fooled him those thousands of years ago. Acting as if nothing had changed even when so much had.

At least Zhongli had the sense to look almost sheepish as he cleared his throat, gaze shifting to stare at something far behind Childe. And it is then that Childe notices their position, notices Zhongli’s eyes meeting his own, face flushed and lips slightly parted… and especially notices the way he has Zhongli’s wrist held in his grasp, the other not making a move to break free. “My apologies… Ajax.”

“For what, helping me out?” Childe laughs, hand rubbing at the back of his neck as he stumbles back, suddenly conscious of the distance (or rather lack of it) between them. 

When they’re this close, it’s hard to ignore the familiar scent of Zhongli’s perfume that drifts in the air around them—earthy, elegant, comforting. Just as it has always been. Thousands of years, multiple lives, and the other really hadn’t changed much at all….

“For the distance I’d put between us.” 

The expression so blatantly painted on Zhongli’s face is much too familiar for comfort, bringing back memories of another time where they’d stood in the Northland Bank, Zhongli reaching for his wrist before pulling back in the final moment and allowing the door to close behind him.

Only on the boat back to Snezhnaya had it finally hit Childe, silent tears of regret and frustration whisked away by the wild ocean wind.

“Ah, that .” The words are tinged with the slightest hint of bitterness despite Childe’s best attempts. Whether it was for the past or the present, he did not know anymore. “Well, we’re supposed to be rivals , aren’t we?”

The rising foreign star disrupting the industry and Liyue’s most beloved star, it had been inevitable that such comparisons arose. That such a wall was put up between them before they even met that first day on set. Though said wall had been completely destroyed that first day they had lunch together, Zhongli’s beautiful laugh and the familiarity of the whole situation much too easily made their way back into his heart as always.

Oh what people would think if they knew the reality of the relationship between Zhongli and himself.

A strange expression crosses Zhongli’s face, soon replaced by the man’s usual mask of cool composure. “... Is that how you see it?”

There is a slight tremble to Zhongli’s voice. One he knows all too well. After all, that very tone had played in his dreams countless times before. “Is that how you see us, Tartaglia?”  

“Well if it was, I wouldn’t be here offering you lunch, would I?”

And with that, he holds a hand out, flashing the most charming smile he could muster and watching the thoughts play through Zhongli’s mind in the way—eyes widening and lips parting the slightest bit, hands relaxing by his side as he looks away for just a moment.

“Our usual place?”

“You’ll see.” Childe winks back instead, free hand already turning the door’s knob. This time, Zhongli follows, hand held in his.

Read the full fic here on AO3~

Author's Notes:

Thank you for reading and feel free to say hi on Twitter [@mikarin_Z], or find my other fics on AO3 [aurellya]!

[aurellya]

Heart's Longing

Summary: Where Childe reunites with Zhongli in the most unexpected situation — the ex-archon in disguise as one of the fatui’s recruits.

[“I only ever wanted to spend my remaining years by your side” — 红绝]

[Originally created as a thread fic posted here]

Meeting

“A pleasure to meet you, Tartaglia,” The person who had just walked into the room greeted, smile peeking through behind the mask he wore, and it takes Childe all of 5 seconds to realise just who was standing before him.

“ZHONGLI?!”

“Yes, that is me,” Zhongli laughs as he removes the mask, golden eyes piercing through Childe. “I—“

Grabbing the other’s shoulders, Childe pulls him to the side and out of view of the recruits in training. “Just what are you doing here?”

Perhaps it had been the slight bitterness to his tone that had unwillingly seeped through the cracks, or the way he had the former archon pinned to the closed doorway, but Zhongli simply stared back at him — gaze unreadable.

“To see you.”

“And why would you want to do that— Is it because—”

“Because I loved you, Ajax.”

Loved

Loved — Zhongli loved him. The word rang within the silence of the room, almost mocking.

There had to be more than mere memories leading Zhongli to him once more. And yet as the former archon’s gaze burned into him, only one truth laid in those golden eyes.

“Zhongli… what did you do.” Childe spoke slowly, free hand reaching out, pausing just before it met Zhongli’s cheek.

“To let this happen…it was an oversight on my part and I apologise. But, Ajax—“ Inhaling sharply, Zhongli clutched at his chest. And, as if he were just a paper puppet, Zhongli crumpled to the ground, lines of gold pulsing across his skin.

“I need your help.”

To see the oh so proud geo archon lacking his usual grace and composure was almost unbelievable, and yet that was exactly the sight before Childe.

“…alright.”

A hand is offered out with a soft smile he cannot hide, concern dancing within ocean blue orbs, and Childe insists that this is fine. That he would help Zhongli as needed, and nothing more.

That their love had long since been discarded. Ever since the day Rex Lapis had fallen.

Yet why did his chest hurt as he helped the other up, hands meeting ice-cold skin that lit up on contact with his hand. Why did those golden eyes stare at him such a way. Why did he feel—

[Ah, perhaps this was another trick and he was the fool yet again… all because of love…]

Warmth

The warmth of another next to him is a comfort Zhongli had not experienced in a long while.

The steady rise and fall of Childe’s chest, the arm wrapped around him, the soft, sleepy mumbles breaking the silence — it’s almost as if nothing had changed.

But that, of course, was not true. That which has been broken can never be made perfectly while again.

The gap between them was unmistakable.

He could not fault Childe for resenting him after he’d learnt of the truth behind his identity. And, perhaps even now, the other still held such feelings… After all Zhongli was once more requiring his help.

A blessing of the adepti, or to some a curse, it was — to have one’s soul bound to another.

Though this was the first time such a thing had happened without proper ceremony…

“It’s that Snezhnaya’s rascal isn’t it— Dijun, let me—“

“A mortal?! How dare—“

“Quiet, all of you, I’m sure Dijun has his reasons.”

As his adepti hovered around him, Zhongli could only sigh as he gazed out towards the sea. Towards a faraway land covered in snow.

He’d never meant to fall in love. Much less… fall so deeply that such a thing could happen. And yet it had.

Yet his carelessness and lack of full understanding of the heart had only brought such a precious bond to ruin. Even still… that warmth was the same as ever.

“And what happens should the bond break?” Zhongli had asked, though he already knew the answer.

With a sad smile, Madame Ping placed a hand on his. “The adeptus dies.”

“Zhongli?” Hearing Childe’s voice, Zhongli turns, smiling as he takes in the sight of the other’s tousled hair and unfocused eyes blinking away the last bits of sleep.

“Good morning, Ajax.”

He tries to hide the disappointment as Childe pulls away, sitting up on the other edge of the bed. Yet the adeptal magic curling itself around his heart only makes it more known as it pulses painfully — attempting to reach out and failing only due to Zhongli’s hold on it.

No. They would take this at Childe’s pace. It was selfish enough that Zhongli had done such a thing just to get close to the other and speak with him once more.

If Childe could not love him back then… then so be it. At least he’d managed to experience that warmth once more.

Clash

Blade pressed against the ex-archon’s neck, Childe laughed. “Can’t handle a simple Fatui training routine, Morax?”

Losing focus in the middle of their sparring session… just who did Zhongli think he was to be disrespecting his opponent in such a way.

It has always been like this, hasn’t it. The archons seeing those beneath them as mere pawns in Celestia’s game.

Just like that fateful day in Liyue, their blades had clashed. Raging waves crashing against unmovable stone in complete silence as their movements spoke for them.

Broken trust, shattered friendship, the loss of something more. What needed to be said had been spoken through the clanging of steel against steel high in the clouds above Liyue Harbour.

It had been the most thrilling battle of Childe’s life — save for the day he’d slain the beast that threatened to take his flickering flame of life during his time in the Abyss.

But this time, as they clashed once more, something was very off.

A strange cloud of tiredness seemed to hang over Zhongli, holding the other in its grasp and rendering his reactions slower than usual, eyes faintly glazed over no matter how he visibly fought the haze away.

A wheezing cough broke Childe out of his thoughts. And as he pulled back his blade, the liquid gold now staining its body glittered under the light of dawn.

An almost beautiful sight of the same liquid did not currently coat Zhongli’s lips.

“Zhongli? Wha—“ He called out, throwing the blade to the floor and stepping forward only to recoil as the temperature of the air around him plummeted, biting at his skin and suffocating him in a way not even Snezhnaya’s coldest winters could.

“Apologies, please do excuse me for today. I do not seem to be feeling well.” Zhongli muttered, hand held over his mouth as he continued to cough.

And before Childe could even speak, Zhongli left — taking the odd chill with him.

Gold dripped from the tip of his blade and onto the crystalline floor, steam rising where they met. And where betrayal had once been back in the heights of Liyue’s golden palace, there now only remained a strange ache.

[Zhongli… Just what is it that you are hiding from me now?]

~❄️~

Upon her icy throne, the goddess of love sighed. “Time’s running out, Morax… what is your choice? Whatever happens, do forgive the child of winter… he does not know anything else. After all, Snezhnaya’s winters temper even the most blazing inferno.”

Truth

“Zhongli,” Childe called between the clashing of their blades, training hall empty.

But the god did not respond. Only continuing the rhythm of battle they’d given themselves to.

“Zhongli, you— Won’t you say something?”

Few words had been spoken between the sessions that followed that day, pleasantries and necessities exchanged but never anything more.

The light within those amber eyes dimmed with each passing day. Power fading in a foreign land. And yet…

“There is nothing to say, Tartaglia.”

Maybe it is the adrenaline running through his veins, remaining battle lust from the mission overnight influencing his decisions. But the god’s response only led to uncharacteristic anger rising even further.

“Then tell me, what is this?” Grabbing Zhongli’s wrist and throwing the sword he held across the icy room, Childe shifted the sleeve of Zhongli’s fatui uniform till it revealed cracked veins of gold skin rough as stone.

It did not take a genius to know something was clearly wrong. The odd fatigue. The distraction. The secrets…

[I knew it] Childe thought to himself, fist clenching at his side.

The very picture of calm, Zhongli simply smiled. “Nothing you should be concerned with. It is a strength… and inevitable weakness of my kind.”

“It’s because of me, isn’t it.” The words were barely loud enough to be heard over Snezhnaya’s howling winds. Still, they are heard.

Countless unopened letters had laid neatly in a box within his room. The same number of unsent ones piled beside them and even more unfinished scraps scattered across his desk.

And written in familiar ink on those letters had been the truth.

“It is not. The decision was my own.”

“Then tell me. Do you still feel the same? Even after

“… a heart of stone is a heart nonetheless… but there is no need to force yourself for my sake—“

“Do you think this is me ‘forcing myself’?” Childe laughed, leaning in. Zhongli’s warm breath fanned across his cheek — faint but sill there.

The smile Zhongli gives him is more than enough. Distance between them closing.

Power fills the hall, rushing in and sending the doors slamming open as the icy ground cracks.

It wraps around them, piercing their cores and flooding them with all the light of an ancient bond.

In that moment, it is almost as if nothing else mattered.

The odd emptiness and chill of Snezhnaya’s endless winter within his heart dispelled. His world held in his arms at last.

Author's Notes:

Thank you for reading and feel free to say hi on Twitter [@mikarin_Z], or find my other fics on AO3 [aurellya]!

[aurellya]

A Dance to Remember

❀ Tartali | Oneshot | Angst, Hurt/Comfort, and lots of Kisses

Summary: Before the last of his memories turn to dust, Zhongli leaves Childe with one final request: To dance to their song with him each day, so that his eyes may see and his mind may remember once more — even if for a short while.

[Originally posted here on AO3]

As the last rays of light disappear behind the mountains, Childe turns to Zhongli, smiling as he extends a hand out. Their gloves are left atop a nearby rock, out of reach of the waves that lap at their bare feet and sweep the sand away with their coming and going.

“Shall we?” 

Zhongli nods, stepping forward soundlessly. A warm palm presses against his own offered one, and Childe allows his other hand to drift to Zhongli’s waist, touching yet not as his hand hovers right above the material of Zhongli’s coat. 

Light blooms beneath their feet, spreading outward across the sand and rising into the sky in swirling pillars of light to form a golden stage untouched by even the ocean. 

An odd picture they make, clad in suits and spinning round and round across the sand, steps practised and confident as they step over starconches in the sand and avoid the biting claws of crabs that hide within. But it does not matter. Not with the sound of the swirling sea and the crunching of the sand beneath their feet to guide them.

The silence is all too loud, their hearts beating in tandem and breaths mixing in the space between them. And, noticing that Zhongli is looking past him at views unknown, Childe simply laughs as he presses a gentle kiss to the tip of the other’s nose, their dance not faltering for even a moment as Zhongli’s lips form an ‘o’ and he turns his head the slightest bit till their eyes meet once more — or somewhat do, at least.

Childe remembers the first time it had begun to happen, Zhongli missing the chopsticks on the table and almost dipping his hand into the bowl of hot soup in front of them.

“Here, xiansheng.” He’d said, pressing the pair of chopsticks into Zhongli’s hand and a spoon into the other. “Is everything alright?”

“...Yes. My apologies, Ajax. I am simply fatigued.” That had been Zhongli’s reply, so clearly a lie from the way the other had hesitated for just a moment, frowning and squinting at his hands as if that would help any. And Childe had watched as the ex-archon tried once more to pick up a piece of bamboo shoot… only to have his chopsticks hit the table. Again and again no matter how many times he tried.

Sliding into the seat beside Zhongli, Childe sighed as he placed his hands over Zhongli’s, guiding the other as they finished their meal.

That had been the first day of many. Only the very beginning of what had been soon to happen.

Twirling Zhongli around and dipping the other so low that the tip of his ponytail brushed against the sand, Childe began humming, lips curving upwards into a smile as Zhongli’s eyes finally fix on him. Empty yet full of love.

He remembers when those eyes had still been able to see, watching him as they danced across their sparring grounds in one of the many clearings in Jueyun Karst, tracing the lines of his face as they woke up each morning.

Childe only wishes that the final scene captured by those eyes had been a much more beautiful one. One of the lovely view from the top of Mount Tianheng as the sun rose, or perhaps his favourite tea spot in the floating pavilion above Jueyun Karst… anything except the bloody mess that had been caused by Childe’s own recklessness.

Zhongli deserved so much more.

“Ajax, you—”

What a sight he had been that day, red coating his grey attire and face pale as he stumbled into their house. Leaning against the dining table as the world spun around him, he’d watched as Zhongli dropped the cup he’d been holding to rush to his side. “Hah… xiansheng… you still remember… good…” 

“That is not important right now.” Zhongli huffed, practically dragging Childe to the couch before ripping his uniform shirt open without a care. Beneath the fabric laid layers after layers of bandages soaked through — layers that Zhongli quickly but carefully removed using the tip of a sharp claw.

“Oh? How forward of you~” Childe joked even as his breath caught in his throat when Zhongli pressed on the now exposed wound.

As expected, Zhongli had paid no mind to his delirious murmurs, hands pressed firmly against his skin and anger and fear filling those beautiful amber eyes as a golden light filled the room — stemming from arms of darkened ebony, cracked as the markings may be. A god’s power, strong enough to cleanse any poison… abyssal or not… but most likely the former now that he thought about it. Honestly, Childe should’ve expected as much. He’d been careless. And now Zhongli would be helping him pay the price as well.

Raising a hand to nudge at Zhongli’s chest and frowning as the other did not move even a little bit, Childe sighed, “I’ll be alright, xiansheng. Don’t waste your energy.”

Except of course his body had to betray him, a series of coughs wracking his frame and sending a thin dribble of blood down his chin.

“Quiet, Ajax. Please—” Zhongli pleaded, voice cracking as shimmering tears fell to the ground drop by drop. And so Childe had watched as gold crackled, breaking and falling to the ground even as his wounds were healed by the very same power. Stitched together by threads of gold and sealed by the purest energy of the land.

“See you tomorrow.” And when the light faded away and the room was plunged in the light of the moon once more, Zhongli had simply smiled before falling into his arms like a dead weight.

Now, Childe grins playfully as he lifts Zhongli into the air, taking mild satisfaction in the shock and exasperation that fills the other’s expression as he finds himself held in the air — hair blown about by the wind as the moon formed a halo behind him. Beautiful.

“Ajax!” Zhongli yelps, pinching at Childe’s shoulders as the other’s hands continue to hold his waist firmly. It’s a joyful, and mildly reckless, spin that has Zhongli yelping and wrapping his arms and legs around Childe even as he knows deep within that Childe would never let him go. Their laughter echoes throughout the night, rising above the sound of the waves and ships approaching the harbour in the distance. “Put me down this instant.”

“As you wish.” And that is exactly what Childe does, lifting Zhongli off him once more as the other’s hold loosens and placing the ex-archon back down upon the ground he had used to command with ease. He holds Zhongli till the other looks steady enough on his own two feet, smiling as he tidies tousled hair back into a neat braid and fixes a starconch in Zhongli’s hair.

Rolling his eyes, Zhongli laughs even as a hand comes to brush against the shell. “Ridiculous.”

There is no bite in his words, softened even more by the way he leans back into Childe’s embrace, the other’s arms automatically wrapping around him once more.

“I love you.” Childe can’t help but say as he holds Zhongli in his arms, feeling the other’s heart beat within his chest and seeing those golden eyes so filled with light once more as his lover looks back at him. The recognition that flickers in and out like a flame against raging winds is all too precious, both of them know this. And so Zhongli raises a hand to trace along the lines of Childe’s face as Childe does the same. It cannot last, but they will make the most of it.

The scar on Childe’s cheek, the clumsy red lines drawn across Zhongli’s eyes by an unseeing gaze. Each and every detail is studied and remembered by heart.

“Were you unable to help me this morning?” Zhongli asks, watching his reflection in the waters below as they move to sit along the shore, uncaring of the way the ocean soaks their clothes and the wind blows their hair into a mess once more — Zhongli’s braid becoming partly undone, though the starconch holds strong in its place.

Rubbing at the line in a poor attempt to fix it, Childe sighs. “... I wasn't able to return on time, sorry… The ship got caught in a storm on the way back.”

He imagines Zhongli reaching around for the eyeliner on his table, trying his best to draw his signature red eyeliner on without assistance, and ends up torn between the warmth that swells in his heart that Zhongli at least remembers something and the pain of watching the other struggle.

Next time… Childe makes a mental reminder to take an earlier ship the next time. And perhaps procure a new brush for Zhongli to use… or another hairpin as a gift. A starconch themed one would probably be beautiful, now that he thinks about it.

When the line is fixed once more, Zhongli only smiles wider as his fingers run across Childe’s cheekbones. “Ajax, what do you think of allowing me to try painting some on for you one day?”

“Would you like to do it now?” From his pocket, Childe pulls out a small package that is easily unwrapped with a tug on the ribbon holding the cover together. Inside lies a simple tub of the red ink he remembers Zhongli loves to use and a new brush, their names engraved into the handle.

“This…” Zhongli’s hands run across the gift, eyes gleaming as he takes the brush in hand and dips it into the red. “Of course.”

And as Zhongli paints beautiful lines of red across his lids and beneath the corner of his eyes, Childe remains completely still even when Zhongli leans close enough that the other’s warm breath fans across his cheek and disperses the cool of the night even if for a few moments.

“Red suits you well,” Zhongli says as he pulls away, directing Childe to look at himself in the water.

“I know.” He grins, pressing a kiss to Zhongli’s cheek. “Now we match!”

“Ajax, I love y—” The faraway look in Zhongli’s eyes returns, and Zhongli blinks a few times, hand pressed against his eyes as a frown makes its way upon his face. Behind them, the moon begins to fall behind the cover of the mountains.

Seeing this, Childe simply pulls Zhongli into a tight embrace once more, holding the other against his chest and humming a song unknown to even the ears of the wind as his hand cards through locks of dark hair that would no longer glow. “It’s alright.” 

With one final kiss against soft lips, Childe bids his farewell, knowing the exact moment as love is replaced by confusion and then pity as Zhongli freezes against him. Ah, so their time is up.

Another day ends and begins just like that. Memories reset and vision lost once more as their moment ends. The sun rises in the sky, yet Childe can only watch as the sun in front of him sets yet again… only to awaken the next coming of dawn.

“... I’m sorry, Ajax, I—” In those eyes brimming with tears like liquid crystal, Childe sees the sun reflected in pools of amber as Zhongli looks away, long bangs hiding those beautiful eyes from view as they brighten and dim once more.

At this, Childe lets go as he always did, taking a step back as he speaks. “It’s alright Zhongli… It’s alright.” It’s alright… whether the words were meant as comfort or a reminder to himself, Childe does not know. 

And when Zhongli finally calms, he pulls out a small book filled with pictures and writing, odd items taped to each page. “Would you like to hear a story?”

“Please.” Zhongli replies, allowing his hand to be taken and guided to the first page where a single piece of mora is taped.

“When we first met…” Childe’s voice drifts off into the bustling morning as the world around them rises to greet the new day. He tells tales of meeting, of departure and reunion. Of happy days spent together strolling along the harbour and even of the sadness of separation as he leaves for weeks on end to settle Fatui work. Of busy mornings spent preparing for the day ahead and of quiet evenings eating together at a table or strolling along the beach as the sun set.

Childe has told this story countless times by now, each scene ingrained in his heart. But it is not troublesome at all. And never will be. The soft smiles that rise to Zhongli’s face as he leans against Childe’s shoulder and falls in love with their memories is more than enough for him.

Joined souls sit side by side as they watch the sun rise in the horizon, casting its golden light upon the mountains and rivers below as it greets the world to a new day. 

Tomorrow they will try again. Or the day after… Or the one after that even… for as long as it would take till the day fragmented memories become whole once more and those golden eyes gaze upon him for more than just mere moments each day.

But for now all they can do is remain by each other’s side from dusk till dawn, savouring that window of clarity and making the most of it each time in a promise fulfilled time and time again.

“Ajax, would you do one last thing for me? Before I forget?” Zhongli had asked in his dreams that final day, a sad smile upon his face as flecks of gold fell from his form.

Swallowing down the cries that threatened to tear their way from his throat, Childe simply smiled, placing a kiss to the back of Zhongli’s hand where the cracks are at their worst. “What is it?”

“Dance with me?” It is a simple wish, and one that Childe would grant time after time again even after this.

“Of course.” And so Childe had taken Zhongli into his arms, their souls dancing in the golden light even as memories crumbled to dust around them.

From then on, this would be their promise. One that would remain unbroken till the very end.

A dance to remember — witnessed by the moon and stars in the skies above, the earth beneath their feet, and the ocean that mourned for its sun. 

Author's Notes:

Thank you for reading and feel free to say hi on Twitter [@mikarin_Z], or find my other fics on AO3 [aurellya]!

[aurellya]

Moonlit Dance

❀ Tartali | Oneshot | Fluff

Summary: Where Childe just wants to see Zhongli smile and finds the perfect opportunity to carry out his plan when a festival lights up Liyue's streets with song and dance.

“Childe, I don’t—” Zhongli gasps as he finds himself being pulled into the crowd, stopping only after colliding with Childe whose free hand drops to his waist, keeping them pressed close together even as everyone around them spins and twirls with joy in an almost organised chaos, led only by the melody of the music drifting around them.

“Come on, xiansheng! I promise it’ll be fun,” He hears Childe say, the other smiling at him brighter than any of the lights that surround them.

The music changes, and he watches Childe mouth the counts ‘1… 2… 3…’ before the hand on his waist is guiding him with a gentle push. 

Carefully, Zhongli takes one step — making sure to mirror Childe’s the best he could. Eventually, he falls into a pattern. Right foot back, left foot sideways to the left, right foot meets left, repeat with the opposite leg. But just as he gets used to the awkward steps, allows himself to drift along with the melody as everyone else was, the music changes.

An upbeat tune takes the floor. Light, bouncy and full of energy despite the way the moon is shining down on them. It’s easy to forget the late night; Easy to forget the fatigue, as the music fills the air and he allows it to guide him — well, as much as he could while staring right down at the ground below and watching the faint imprints his feet leave in the soil.

Then, there is a hand cupping his cheek, tilting his head back up to meet sapphire blue orbs that shine brighter than any precious gem ever could in his eyes, “Keep your eyes on me.” And he does just that. Never looking away from Childe even as the other steps away, only to twirl him back close and catch him in his arms before Zhongli can collide with the other merrymakers around them, or the floor.

It’s exhilarating, and he can’t help the wide smile that spreads across his face, or the laughter that slips past his lips each time their eyes inevitably meet once more no matter how far apart they step, hands remaining linked all the while. 

Zhongli finds himself falling. Falling for the way the usually quiet night of Liyue is filled with fun and cheer. Falling for the way everyone seems to move as one, united by the festivities that last but a single night each year. Falling for the way, at each moment, Childe is right by him just as he’d said, guiding him through it all such that all Zhongli has to do is enjoy. 

Of course, no first tries go perfect. And Zhongli almost expects it when his shoe catches on an unfortunate rock, breaking the graceful flow he’d been keeping and sending him into the beginnings of an awkward stumble — ah, it seemed the very earth he held domain over wished to betray him this very night.

But then there are warm arms circling his waist, holding him steady. Their noses bump, and they meet each other’s gaze, frozen in silence for just a heartbeat before soft laughter is filling the space between them.

“Wasn’t that fun, xiansheng?” Childe is saying, warm breaths brushing against Zhongli’s cheek as they remain there, not quite pulling apart even as the others make to leave to explore the rest of the festival. The music has ended after all, and there is much more to enjoy. Yet all Zhongli can focus on is the way his heart continues to pound within his chest, and the echoes of the music’s final notes replay in his mind.

“Indeed, it was,” He replies after a few moments, placing his hands on Childe’s shoulders as he gazes into those eyes once more, eyes that had been fixed on him the whole time. “Though perhaps we should practice more before the next time we attempt such a thing… for the sake of both your feet and mine.”

“A little dirt on my shoes is nothing at all. I much prefer seeing your smile, Zhongli xiansheng.”

The heat that rises to his cheeks is inevitable, and Zhongli sighs as he flicks the other on the forehead lightly. What else was he to say against such sweet words? And so Zhongli decides to wrap a hand in the fabric of Childe’s scarf, leading the other towards him until their lips brush in a final fleeting touch before they part. Hand in hand, they return to the crowd once more. Whether to participate in one of the various game stalls that lined the streets, or to savour yet another set of freshly cooked dishes whose aroma filled the air, who knows?

After all, the night was still young and they had much left to explore. Ah, the joys of mortal life… a wonderful thing to experience, together.

Author's Notes:

Thank you for reading and feel free to say hi on Twitter [@mikarin_Z], or find my other fics on AO3 [aurellya]!

[aurellya]

Morax 🔶

[aurellya]

Smolrax loves strawberry🍓

[aurellya]

Hidden Cracks

❀ Tartali | Oneshot | Angst (with a happy ending)

Summary: Where Zhongli desperately tries to hide the way the cracks painted upon his skin worsen with each passing day — threatening their promise of ‘forever’.

Of course, Childe notices.

[Originally posted here]

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Act I — Erosion

Zhongli comes home and sees Childe lying fast asleep on the couch… when he approaches, Childe jerks awake — and Zhongli watches as sleep (and fear) fades from those tired blue eyes that slowly recognise him.

Ignoring the dagger that disappears into droplets of water that soak his shirt, he continues to hold Childe till the other’s breaths steady.

“Xiansheng, you’re back late,” Childe laughs against the fabric of his shirt, eyes closed.

Running his hand through Childe’s hair and removing the mask from its place to set down on the table, Zhongli sighs, “My apologies.”

“… Zhongli, you’ll tell me if something’s wrong, right?” The hand grasping his wrist suddenly tightens.

“… I will.” Zhongli smiles, ignoring the way it feels as if his skin is on fire, clenched fist hidden behind Childe’s back as he refuses to acknowledge the faint golden glow of the cracks covered by his gloves’ leather.

It’s not the most comfortable position, awkwardly tangled in each other’s warm embrace on the couch. But it’s alright, having each other is more than enough.

That night, Zhongli enters Childe’s dreams — chasing away abyssal shadows and fear that wears his own crumbling face.

When the sun rises, they will awaken once more. And Zhongli can only hope that the hidden cracks beneath his gloves will never have to be revealed. Will never spread further.

Act II — Nightmare | Promise

Minutes, hours, days, Childe doesn’t know how long he’s been circling around in the darkness… there is a heaviness to the air, a sick pull to the odd mud that oozed from cracks in the earth. But that is not the worst of it.

In front of him is Zhongli, cracks along his skin as the ebony mask of Rex Lapis lay crumbling in his hands. 

[Not again. Please no.]

But before the scene can progress once more, yet another cycle in the blurred loop of time in what he is sure is a nightmare yet can’t escape—

There is a flash of light, brighter than any star. And a comforting warmth envelopes him in its embrace.

It is by reflex that he wills water to bend to his will… though its form shatters immediately as he breathes in the competing scent of earthy sandalwood and bright magnolia.

He feels the man remove the mask atop his head [when had he forgotten that?] and set it aside somewhere, the power of the delusion out of his reach.

They remain like that, comforting touches reassuring of each other’s presence.

“… Zhongli, you’ll tell me if something’s wrong, right?” He asks, grasping at the other’s wrist and feeling the unusually fast pulse so uncharacteristic of someone usually so calm and composed.

“… I will.”

Childe wants to believe him. Truly, he does. But the faint power of geo so turbulent beneath his touch is more than enough of a tell.

There is something wrong, yet why wouldn’t Zhongli tell?

He thinks back to nights spent together, decorative silken robes covering the god’s skin. How the gloves always stayed on. How the glow of the lines upon his god’s skin only grew brighter with each passing day.

There is something wrong, and Childe— no. Ajax, needs to know.

[Fool. You cannot save me. A god’s erosion is inevitable.] The final words of Zhongli’s twisted form in his dream of the abyss echo in his mind… but one detail stood out.

The man had smiled. Smiled as he crumbled to dust for the Nth time in Ajax’s arms.

A challenge then. One he would gladly take up.

Childe laughs as the sun rises, casting its light upon their intertwined bodies. 

Beside him, Zhongli continues to sleep soundly, long lashes casting shadows upon his cheeks. Silently, he wipes lines of red from the other’s eyes.

It only takes a few more minutes till eyes of molten gold blink open, a gloved hand coming to caress his cheek oh so gently, “Good morning, sleepyhead.” 

“Good morning.” His god replies, placing a kiss to his lips, and it only sets his resolve in stone.

Tartaglia had come to challenge a god, blades prepared for a thrilling battle.

Childe had befriended a god — oh so graciously been given his heart as a gift to form a bond like no other, even.

And Ajax… Ajax would save him. He had to. It is his promise.

For the one who gave him the warmth of a family in the morning, spent afternoons having ‘business’ meals, and peaceful sleep each night — the man whose heart he’d been given and the lover he’d offered his own to… Ajax would do anything to fulfil that promise.

Act III — Departure

It isn’t hard to notice the way Childe watches him — always hovering nearby as if he would disappear at any moment, clutching him just that slightest bit tighter with each passing day. Still, neither bring it up.

And then it happens.

A miscalculation on his part. One he’d realised too late, darkness filling his vision as the fear in Childe’s expression morphed into a different kind — one of dread.

To the side, the shadow of himself formed by the nightmare smiled sadly before disappearing in a burst of gold.

“Zhongli—“ There is a strange feeling in his chest, one that Zhongli reaches for with frightening speed and gasping breaths. A spreading emptiness.

Warm fingers grasp at his, loosening his grip and rubbing calming circles in his palm. “Shh…focus on me. Good, there we go.”

Childe places a kiss to their joined hands, and Zhongli sighs as he notes the sparks that dance across his skin at the contact unhindered by the gloves he usually wore.

“Better?”

Instead of replying, Zhongli simply allows himself to melt into the embrace.

“I can handle it.” He’d said when had Childe first caught him, silk robe tossed off to the side and leaving the   glowing markings exposed.

A betrayal, a promise broken — yet was it truly such if he had already resigned himself to the outcome, said it was ‘fine’?

It had taken days of gentle urging, of reassurance that he knew his limits and would be able to handle it.

Yet here he is, lying in Childe’s arms against the ancient power both fading and threatening to destroy his mortal form.

“Everything turns to dust…” Zhongli mutters after a while, gaze lowered. “Such is the natural order of this world. Change is inevitable. There is no ‘forever’, Ajax.”

The cracks are more prominent now, unstable geo energy spilling forth in pulsing waves.

“I know.” Childe admits, pressing their foreheads together. “I know, Zhongli… but still—“

“I will not stop, even if you ask.” It is  a stubborn resolution, but one he will stick to for as long as he can.

What use is power if you cannot even use it to help those you care about?

“I know. But at least let me help?” The suggestion has Zhongli frowning, pulling away to watch Childe in confusion.

In his many years, Zhongli had seen countless gods fall to erosion. Yet a part of him wants to hope that something could be done… a foolish hope, really.

He’d been softened by time — by love.

Love for Liyue which he’d served for his whole life. Love for its people who’d proved their strength and independence. Love for the one who’d both stolen his heart, both godly and human

A love that kept that foolish hope of his alive.

“And what is it that you can do?” 

A sad smile is his only reply that night, attention diverted much too easily caring touches and an offer of warm tea to ease the night’s chill.

Yet his true answer comes the next day in the form of a cold bed and a single letter on the table.

***

Dear Zhongli,

I’m sorry… but this is the only way I can think of for now. Live well, and please don’t worry about me.

I will return when I have an answer to your question. Or maybe, just maybe, we may meet again at the right time.

Always Yours,

Ajax

***

In a land frozen in time, a warrior kneels before his archon.

“Tartaglia, you have returned… why so?”

“Give ‘it’ to me.”

Silence sets over the icy hall, “… you are aware of the possible consequences?”

“I am… but if ‘it’ can help him then I’m willing to take whatever risk.”

The goddess of love smiles and golden light envelopes the room in its warmth. Pillars of earth rise from the ground — streams of hydro flowing across them. 

In the middle of it all is a single chess piece, held in the warrior’s hands.

Act IV — Where Land Meets The Sea

The Tsaritsa does not answer Zhongli’s letters, each returned with seal unbroken and paper pristine as if untouched by anyone at all.

However, when he finally receives a response it is not the one he’d been expecting—

The trip to Snezhnaya is unpleasant to say the least. 

Determination is what keeps him pushing through the cold of a land frozen over by their archon’s heart that had long since shut itself off from the love it had once been known for.

[Come, Morax. Meet with your fool of a lover before it’s too late for you both]

The words alone had been enough to have him leave his post overlooking Liyue, golden shield maintained by his adepti who’d urged against hesitance with the promise that they could handle themselves.

“The people of Liyue can defend ourselves, had we not proven it already? Go.” That they had, all those years ago during the final Rite of Descension.

The age of gods and monsters had passed. Perhaps this final battle was another test of both his and his people’s resolve on that.

The moment his feet touch ground once more, the earth responding to the reach of his core all the same, Zhongli feels it — the thrumming of power, foreign yet familiar.

The presence of another archon, yet not quite.

[Ajax… is that you?]

It is all too easy to find the source of the power, overflowing hydro energy oh so out of place in a nation of ice and snow.

“What have you done…” He whispers to no one in particular, clutching the crumpled letter in his hands as he stares at the whirlwind of chaos

“Zhongli— Why are you here, I—“ The letter falls to the ground as Zhongli pulls the other into a tight hug, watching as marks of shimmering blue faded from the other’s skin.

Power withdrawn even as the core it comes from only wishes to draw him closer.

Zhongli feels rather than sees the way erosion at him, the mask of ‘fine’ that he’d refused to let go of finally put down upon a reunion he’d been waiting for.

“I had to see you. Even one last time.” He laughs hoping the smile upon his cracking lips is convincing enough.

For a moment, all is silent… until walls of water rise high above them, untouched by Snezhnaya’s cold.

Ajax’s hand takes his, reaching for the gnosis that is torn between its master — previous and current.

[Morax you traitor]

[You dare leave us?]

[Archon of Geo, how far you’ve fallen…]

The voices echo — only to be silenced as clear blue waters wash the shadows away, whale song echoing in the air.

The energy flows into him almost naturally, soothing and calming turbulent geo with gentle waves like earth weathered by the movements of the sea — jagged cracks smoothened best they can and sealed with lines of blue.

“Good… it’s helping...” Childe comments, hands brushing over Zhongli’s skin where the angry lines faded with each second. And Zhongli cannot deny its truth.

Sighing helplessly at his lover, Zhongli frowned. “It is temporary, you know that.”

“Yeah, I do… but I could say the same for what you did for me.” Yet another truth. 

“Ajax, I—“ Zhongli tries to explain once more. To say the words he’d not managed to say before Ajax’s sudden departure from his side. 

Only to be silenced by warm lips pressing against his own.

“You fool.”

“I’m sorry.”

“Why?”

“I love you.”

A god who’d give himself for a mortal, and the mortal who’d sought power thought to be unreachable to do the same — Ah what a pair they make indeed.

A strange thing, love is.

nother time will come where they would have to face the cracks sealed by divine power that had been borrowed and wielded by the hands of one it did not belong to.

But perhaps by then, the answer they’d been seeking would be found.

“Let’s go home, Zhongli.” His Ajax smiles, eyes a brightest blue speckled with hints of gold — the influence of a god’s core which clearly did not belong to him but had thankfully accepted its master anyways.

“Mm, let’s.”

[aurellya]

Memory of Gold

❀ Tartali | Oneshot | Artist x Florist AU

Summary: Ajax comes across a handsome florist while looking for inspiration for his next painting. 

For some reason, he can’t get rid of the feeling that he should know the mysterious man who looks all too similar to the subject of many of his paintings. But that was a completely ridiculous thought. After all, they had never even met before — or at least that’s what he thinks.

[Originally posted here on AO3 — for Tartali Week Round 2 prompt: Florist AU]

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Frowning slightly, Ajax looks between the storefront and the address typed out in his phone. No, he was absolutely in the right location, it seemed. Right in front of him, tucked away in one of the oldest buildings in the neighbourhood and with a complete lack of signage to mark its presence, was Wangsheng Flora which was apparently popular for its selection of rare flowers. At least that’s what his research, alongside the multiple articles he’d found, told him. Honestly, if he hadn’t known better from the address and photo currently displayed on his phone, he would have thought it to be just another house along the street. 

Wangsheng Flora was a mysterious thing — the store was known for changing location every few years without announcement, its location only being made known to the public whenever someone came across its signature look and posted it online. It was just his luck that the next location was somewhere near his studio in Liyue, really. So dropping by couldn’t hurt at all, and would actually even be beneficial if he could find what he was looking for.

“Hello, anyone in?” He calls out as the bell atop the door rang in accompaniment to his entrance. Despite the lights being on, the store looked pretty much empty and it didn’t help that the light mist that drifted throughout the store gave everything a slightly eerie feel, especially when accompanied by the traditional look of the place. If he didn’t know better, or notice the cashier counter up front and misting system overhead, he wouldn’t hesitate to believe that he’d somehow stepped into a fragment of the past that was captured within the store.

“My apologies, do hold on for just a moment,” A voice echoes out from somewhere deeper within the store, followed by the rhythmic sound of light footsteps against the wooden flooring as whoever had spoken came into view. “Is there anything I can help you with?”

Right in front of him, clad in a simple turtleneck, black pants and a pair of metal-rimmed glasses which only served to highlight their mesmerising amber eyes, stood probably the most attractive person Ajax had ever seen — and that was saying a lot. Every single thought in his mind simply evaporated into nothingness as he stared at the mysterious stranger, mouth half parted in preparation to say words that never came.

Oh, what he would give to be able to paint such a perfect subject… though there was just something about them he couldn’t put his finger on. They’d certainly never met before, that was for sure. But why was there something within him which yearned to reach out to the other?

“Sir?” Ah, right. He still had a flower to buy. 

Clearing his throat, Ajax offers a small smile to the mysterious stranger — Zhongli, apparently, according to his nametag. “I’m looking for this flower called a glaze lily, I heard you have it here?”

At the mention of the name of the flower, Zhongli’s eyes lit up with recognition, “Ah, the glaze lily. Quite the unusual choice…” 

“Oh?”

“Not many come seeking them, your taste is quite unique in that regard. I have to admit, they are my personal favourite as well,” Zhongli explains with a slight shrug, “You have come at the right time, they are in full bloom at the moment.”

“A lucky day for me then!”

“This way,” Zhongli directs him deeper into the store and past a door and out towards what might as well be a whole garden. Seriously, just how big was the place? The main store itself was already big, and the revelation of the additional area just made his head spin imagining how long it probably took for Zhongli to pack up and switch locations whenever he did. Moving locations himself from Snezhnaya to Liyue had taken him about a month of packing so he couldn’t imagine the amount of work Zhongli put in by himself, especially since there didn’t seem to be anyone working alongside him.

All around the glass-walled area were flowers of all kinds, displayed freely yet beautifully as if part of an exhibition on their own. From roses, to tulips, sunflowers, and even flowers he’d never even seen in your usual neighbourhood florist, could be found. Ah, if only he’d brought his sketchbook… As expected of what had been deemed ‘the place you could obtain any flower you wished’. Most eye-catching, though, was the tree which stood tall and proud in the middle of the whole area, its foliage shimmering like gold and casting a gentle glow on the glaze lilies at its base.

“Wow,” Ajax couldn’t help but say as they stop in front of the patch of pale blue blossoms. The mesmerising blooms almost seemed like they were glowing under the gentle lighting overhead, presenting a dream-like image that sent his mind spinning. This, this was the image he had been looking for, “They’re… beautiful.”

“Indeed, they belong to the first bloom of the year after all,” The smallest hints of a proud smile took its place on Zhongli’s lips as he nods, crouching down and pulling out a small knife which he used to carefully cut a few stalks. 

“You do all the work here yourself?”

Zhongli pauses for a moment before replying, a wistful glint to his eyes flashing by so briefly that Ajax would have believed it if you told him he had simply imagined it, “...Yes, that is the case.”

Ah, bad question. Though luckily, Zhongli did not seem to mind as he continued on with his work, quick and precise as he judged which glaze lilies from the bunch were suitable.

Ajax watches as he takes a piece of paper printed with swirls of gold and wraps it around the flowers with practised ease, securing the whole thing in place with a ribbon just a slightly darker blue than the odd pendant the man wore on a chain as a necklace. It was a simple thing, yet such simplicity brought out the delicate beauty of the glaze lilies perfectly. As expected, the images he found online absolutely did not do any justice to the real flowers themselves. Mentally, he patted himself on the back. Perhaps this was the missing piece to the puzzle in his mind and the piece he had been stuck on for days on end would finally be completed.

“Is there anything else you require?” 

“Nope! That’s it for me, at least for now.” Except maybe your number… but we could work that out later.  

And without much else, they returned to the counter, with Ajax simply placing his card at the scanner without even so much as taking a peek at the cost of his purchase.

“Thank you, Zhongli.” He beams, taking the bouquet into his arms carefully. “You’ll still be here next week? Just checking—”

“I will,” Zhongli smiles once more, and Ajax swears he could hear angels singing a hymn behind him as he took in the sight. Seriously, how had the man not been scouted by a modelling agency till now? 

“Well then, see you again next week, Zhongli!” With that, Ajax turns to leave, a bouquet of glaze lilies in hand. And as the bell at the entrance chimed above his head and the cool night’s breeze surrounded him once more, an odd feeling overcame him. But Ajax simply brushed it off, he had a warm home to return to and glaze lilies to add to his painting. 

Besides, he did leave a little something behind. Now to wait for Zhongli to find it...

As the doors drift shut, Zhongli takes in a deep breath, closing his eyes. No, he couldn’t be mistaken. Especially not when it came to him.  

“Ajax… ” He whispers to no one in particular, hand shifting to grasp at his necklace, the previously dull blue vision glowing ever so slightly. It was him, it had to be him … yet not at the same time. Picking up the piece of paper left on the counter, Zhongli shakes his head with a smile, a soft laugh escaping despite himself. Ah, how typical.  

Right there on the paper was what looked like a hastily scribbled number with the words ‘Text Me? — Ajax’ written on it. As forward as he remembered, it seems.

Well, since it was offered...

Placing his phone back on the counter, Zhongli let out a trembling breath as he ran a hand through his hair. It had been what? Centuries? A millennium? He had long lost track of the time that had passed since their last meeting. Perhaps he would awaken the next day, and find that it had been yet another dream of a time that could have been. But even if it was a cruel trick fate was trying to play on him, he couldn’t help but hope that maybe he would have to dream no longer. 

After all, a promise was a promise. And he of all people would be the very last to ever break one, even if it required going against Celestia itself.

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Wrong, everything was wrong. Ajax sighed as he tossed the brush to the side, unflinching even as he heard the wood snap as it crashed against whatever poor piece of furniture had been in its path. 

From the canvas in front of him stared a pair of golden eyes he had painted and re-painted many times over. No matter what he did, everything just seemed to slip from his mind the moment he put brush to canvas, the fog in his mind only becoming increasingly more difficult to see through the more he tried to focus. He’d been working on the piece for what had to be weeks at the very least, after finally deciding to attempt to find meaning in the strange dreams that plagued his sleep and left a hollow feeling in his chest when he woke to face the day. When he moved to Liyue in search of newfound inspiration, having dreams which seemed to be set in ancient times was definitely not what he had expected.

The first few attempts had been fine, becoming some of his most popular works, even.  A bustling harbour illuminated by the light of lanterns, a setting sun falling behind mountains which stood so tall they almost seemed to touch the sky, a lone figure strolling along the beach. All of them had one thing in common — the image of a man in a strange suit, long hair trailing behind him as he stood, always half turned away and thus never showing his face.

That was the very thing that had led to his current headache: an attempt at drawing a portrait of the mystery man who kept appearing in his dreams. Except all he had so far was the beginnings of a handsome face which held a stern yet almost longing expression as they held a bouquet of glaze lilies — the problem was that it felt empty, there was no soul to it whatsoever . It wasn’t a terrible painting at all, but it just didn’t click no matter how hard he tried. With a sigh, he stood up from his stool and walked over to the fallen brush, picking it up and tossing it into the pile of its companions which had befallen a similar fate. 

In the corner of his eye, he spots the bouquet of glaze lilies he had displayed in a glass case staring back at him, placed just in front of a covered canvas. 

Then it hits him.

He’s standing in an open field, blue flowers scattered across the expanse of green — glaze lilies in full bloom under the moonlight. At the middle of it stands a tree with leaves of gold, standing tall and proud.

“Childe, you’re here.” There is a man at the base of the tree, he realises. There, they sit at a stone table, sipping on a cup of tea. And as they look up with a gentle smile, Ajax is met once more with a familiar golden gaze. Their image is clearer than ever, he realises, and oh so familiar… 

“Zhongli?” He tries saying, attempting to step forward only to find himself rooted in place by an unknown force.

“Sorry for being late— got held up by some… not so cooperative clients, but I bought us dinner! Forgive me?” A voice so much like his own comes up from behind him and he turns to see what may as well be a mirror image of himself striding towards the man at the table, two small packages in hand. The stranger wearing his appearance is dressed strangely, grey uniform dishevelled and red mask sitting atop a head of fiery orange. If he looked carefully, the faintest specks of red could be spotted dotting their boots and gloved hands.

And as the eerily bloodstained yet joyful person passed him, Ajax swears they meet each other’s eyes when the person glances to the side, almost as if acknowledging Ajax’s presence, before flashing the briefest of smiles. It happened so quickly that he could have very much been hallucinating… there was no way that could have been directed at him, right?

But then everything goes black and he’s left alone in the silence.

“Do you remember now?” Everything shatters. 

‘Remember what—’ Ajax wants to ask. But before he can, the ground gives out from beneath him and he’s left falling, a strange darkness surrounding him until—

Ajax jerks as the sound of his phone ringing cuts through his mind and he is back standing in the middle of his studio, a hand gently caressing the petals of a glaze lily. A drop of wetness lands on his palm, then another, and another . And wordlessly, he reaches a hand up to rub at his eyes as if attempting to dispel the remnants of sleep. 

At some point in time, he must have pulled the cloth off of the covered canvas by accident, for the painting behind it now lays uncovered and suddenly, everything made sense . Right there in front of him, was one of the first works he had created — depicting but a single tree in the middle of a clearing. A tree he had definitely seen before.

Not even bothering to clean up the paints and brushes strewn all across his studio, Ajax rushes out the door and runs.

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Humming a soft tune to himself, Zhongli ties a bow atop his latest work — A simple arrangement of magnolias, roses, baby’s breath and lily of the valley; An innocent wish for eternal love and happiness. A gift, perhaps, for the man who looked so similar to his long lost love. And a silent hope that they would be spared the cruel fate of centuries ago where happiness had been cut short by tragedy.

As Zhongli places the wooden box down at the base of the tree he had been sitting under, he can’t help but glance at his phone once more. Ajax had missed his calls not just once, but thrice already. Not to mention the fact that it was already past their initial arranged meetup time…  What if something had happened? Maybe he should—

Just then, he hears the front door being slammed open, the force of it reverberating throughout the whole store as vases clink and leaves rustle outside. 

“Ajax?” Zhongli calls out, recognising the figure standing at the entrance of the garden, their chest heaving and hair dishevelled. Had he run here? 

For just a moment, everything is quiet, save for the remnants of the soft ringing of the bell at the entrance. Then, Zhongli feels himself being pulled forward into a desperate embrace and all he can hear is the pounding of their hearts. 

“Ajax, what is the matter?” He tries again, trembling voice muffled against the fabric of the other’s shirt. Could it be… 

At this, Ajax’s hold around him loosens just enough for Zhongli to be able to pull away so that their eyes meet as he reaches a hand up to cup the other’s cheek, thumb wiping at the tear tracks gently, “Ajax, speak to me, please .”

The silence between them seems to extend for an eternity, before finally being broken by a soft laugh.

“Zhongli, I’m sorry.” Ajax finally says, a sheepish smile on his face. “I’ve kept you waiting, haven’t I?”

Letting out the breath he didn’t even realise he had been holding, Zhongli returns the smile with a sigh, “...for too long, you fool.”

This time, it’s Zhongli who surges forward till their lips meet in a passionate dance, salty tears mixing with the bitterness of separation and the sweetness of a reunion long since overdue. Around them, golden leaves fall gently to the ground and flowers sway in the wind as a gentle breeze sweeps through.

“Say, Zhongli, what if we moved out into the middle of nowhere, where no one would be able to find us?” Childe said one day, pulling Zhongli closer to his side and gently nudging the other’s head to lean on his shoulder as they watched the sun set over the horizon, cups of tea empty between them, “I believe a little vacation house in the mountains would do nicely.”

“Oh? And what would we do there?” 

“Well— I could hunt for meat and fish, and even have our own garden up there! It would be our secret little escape. Sounds nice, no?” Childe hummed as he caressed Zhongli’s cheek, “After I complete this mission, I will join you there… would you wait for me?”

“Always,” Zhongli had said with a smile back then. True to his word, he waited. Through the heat of summer and the chill of winter, he had waited, tending to the gardens and waiting for the day his beloved would return from his hunt. And on every first day of the month, he would sit alone at the stone table beneath the golden tree where they had first made their vows and become one under the stars.

“No matter how long it takes, I will always be here, waiting for your return.”

Little had he known that Childe never had been fated to return, till one day a knock came at the door — which he had opened to see nothing but the sigh of shattered fragments of a familiar red mask and a dull vision that had once glowed so bright with life. 

Neither of them had expected the sudden departure, but who was Childe if not an incessant defier of fate? Be it Gods, Celestia, or even the universe itself, he did not fear any challenge, and the Divine were not excluded from such ambitions. Especially if it stood between him and fulfilling a promise to his most beloved.

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“Welcome home, Ajax.”

[aurellya]

It’s impossible not to love nuili

[aurellya]

Meeting You Among The Flowers

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“When we’re older, I’ll make sure to find you again and give you the most beautiful flower from the garden!”

“Will it not wilt during travel?”

“Then I’ll find a way to make it last forever. That way you can always keep it with you and remember me!”

“I will look forward to it then, Your Highness.”

╚═════════════════ ∘◦ ❈ ◦∘ ══════════════════╝

❀ Tartali | Multichapter | Royalty AU — Ongoing

Summary: It’s the dead of winter when Childe receives a letter from : the Tsaritsa informing him of the arrival of an important foreign guest and assigning him to accompany them. Sounds like a simple task, right? Well, it would’ve been... had Childe not completely forgotten about said letter in the first place.

Not only that, but he also found himself enchanted by a certain individual with the most beautiful golden eyes, softest smile… and complete lack of mora he’d ever seen.

It was going to be a long week ahead — and certainly one to remember.

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[aurellya]

Bixia 🔶

made: May 22, 2022

"Alas, he ends up spending the rest of the day standing in front of a mirror, arms spread as he stands still as a doll while various fabrics are laid over him and pinned at areas."

Inspired by Aurellya’s “Eroded Crown, Boundless Faith”

[aurellya]

🌙 “Oh blue moon, my old pretty moon” 🌙

made: October 10, 2021

❀ “Xiansheng, promise me that you'll be happy even if I can't be by your side.”

❀ Everything turns to dust eventually and it seems his time is nearing.

Based on Aurellya’s “Ocean Gold”, AO3