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To my dearest Zhongli,
I have been gone a long time, four months exactly, time has crawled by without you by my side. The nights are cold, and the days are dreary. The snow of Snezhnaya falls as heavy as ever, unrelenting and unaware of the mortality of me and my men that hangs in the balance.
Thankfully, we have succeeded in what we sought to accomplish, so I shall be returning to you soon.
Yours eternally,
Ajax.
Zhongli read every letter in the privacy of his home, cherishing what seemed like regular pieces of parchment like they were made from gold. Each filed away and preserved for safe keeping. Many who saw his habit thought of it as something painfully lovesick, the idea of collecting the letters sent by your lover as they traveled great distances was almost nauseatingly poetic. Not in the least bit surprising to those who knew the ever sentimental Mr. Zhongli.
To Zhongli, however, he also cherished them as he never knew which letter may be Childe’s last. Zhongli never wanted to tether the man down, never wanted to stop him from chasing the addictive highs of adrenaline he was so intent on living for, but at the same time he wanted to lock the man away for safekeeping. Tie him down in the cushiest room possible. Every time Childe returned to his doorstep sporting fresh wounds that feeling only increased tenfold, having to be quelled by Childe kissing Zhongli’s knuckles and reminding him of their contract.
No matter how far Childe strayed, no matter what battles he faced. He was always to return to Zhongli’s side.
He was to never fall in battle, nor to illness, and never to the hands of any assailant. Only two things were allowed to end his life:
Old mortal age,
And Zhongli’s own hands, should it come to it.
And Childe lived by that. Every trek he returned from he would be welcomed home into Zhongli’s arms, would kiss his face and neck. He would take Zhongli’s hand in his own, kiss each knuckle, then tell Zhongli “I told you I would return.” to calm the dragon.
This trip was no different as he waited for his lover to return. Zhongli lived life as he had come to know, working hard at the Funeral Parlour, taking his walks, occasionally meeting with adepti for comradery, then he would finish every night with a cup of tea to read and reply to Childe’s letters.
Childe was not able to disclose what it was the Tsaritsa had sent him off to do; strictly confidential information was not wisely included in something as easily lost as mail. All Zhongli knew is that it entailed long nights in tents and shoddy cabins in the midst of snow storms. That Childe was looking forward to returning home to a bed with only one other body in it rather than having to sometimes share close quarters with his subordinates. He told stories of what may have happened that frustrated him that day (such as improperly packed rations lost in the snow and leaving them hungry for a day or two until they could restock) as well as anything that Childe considered a victory. (when Childe had gotten to flex his proficiency in ice fishing to replenish some of that lost food stock) Each tale left Zhongli with a soft smile.
He’d been intrigued by one letter in particular.
I’ve decided to forgo shaving for the time being. Don’t you think I’d look dashing with a beard? I think it adds a masculine and rugged touch to any man, I think the mature look is just what I need to earn some more respect among the other Harbingers- no longer will I be taunted as a ‘pretty boy’. I think it would also aid in surviving the frigid nights, a little extra warmth against the chill of the wind.
My men laughed at the idea. Had it not been for the alcohol warming our bellies I would have broken the arm of the ‘gentleman’ who tussled my hair and called me a ‘silly little boy who can’t even sprout hair on my chest’. I have decided I will enact my revenge when he least expects it.
Zhongli tried to imagine Childe with a beard… it had been about three months since he’d received that specific letter- how much would it have grown in that time? Would he look the part of a mountaineering adventurer? Long tangled hair that Zhongli would surely have to fuss over when he returned. Would that blond streak in his hair carry to his beard? Every visual that came to Zhongli’s mind admittedly left him amused, imagining that cute, soft face of his husband covered by ginger curls even more than usual with how he always let his bangs cover his face. As it was Childe didn’t shave often- only when sparse patches of coarse hair became too apparent to ignore. Never sporting much in terms of visual growth, but an uncomfortable itch to Childe… and to Zhongli when he insisted on nuzzling his cheeks against Childe’s and would then complain about the scratchy texture.
As usual the letters only stopped after Childe announced his return home, Zhongli would receive messages from him regularly, usually every other day or so, until then. After that Childe would withhold sending new mail, due to the fact it was likely he’d be back in their home in Liyue before the parcels would even arrive. Even though Zhongli knew very well why the communication halted it still left him antsy, worrying if maybe something bad would happen in that short period where he didn’t hear from Childe.
If he were capable of having a heart attack he surely would have had one on the day that, instead of his husband, he was met with Fatui officers outside his door around sunrise one morning. They stood stoic, no significant emotion for Zhongli to read on their faces. He was always prepared to hear the worst when it came to Childe, nearly having to sit down and let his heart settle when they informed him that Childe was definitely not dead- only that his ship had been delayed for a few days. They’d received special instruction to inform Zhongli so he would not worry, ironically doing the opposite for a short moment. Admittedly Zhongli may have been a little clingy when he did return home, that single moment of panic still lingering with him as he clung to Childe’s side like an obsessive pet once he finally did make it home.
Zhongli always very diligently counted down the days until his husband’s return. Of course, they were always estimates. Childe would include his coded coordinates in his letters, letting Zhongli do the math on when he could be expected home. From then he would spend his free time on the estimated days waiting by the piers, happy to spend time watching the bustle of the ship workers as he kept a watchful eye over the horizon for the ever recognizable ships of the Fatui.
When the ships did arrive Zhongli would push his way through the crowd to stand precisely where he knew Childe would disembark from his ship, usually finding himself wrapped in Zhongli’s arms before his feet even touched the dock. After especially long trips Childe would sometimes leap from the boat to Zhongli to be caught and spun around, legs wrapped around his hips and refusing to let go until they’d finished holding each other so tightly they nearly melded together. After the embrace (or sometimes during ) he would then turn to his subordinates with a commanding voice and order them around as needed.
There were rare times when Zhongli couldn’t meet Childe at the docks- usually thanks to work and funerals that would need his attendance. Childe kept a key on him, so during those days he would return to their home and usually climb directly into bed, awoken by a gentle kiss pressed to his head when Zhongli came home hours later.
It had become routine that after every trip Zhongli would listen intently as Childe rambled on about anything he couldn’t include in his letters, all while massaging the exhaustion from his muscles. Childe would lay on the floor, couch, or bed, and Zhongli would straddle his back to work the tension from his shoulders and back, knowing just the right areas to press against and rub to leave Childe melting into whatever surface he was on-- sometimes to the point he’d fall asleep mid-story. Other times, when Childe wasn’t left an exhausted husk from his trips, he’d crawl on top of Zhongli after and demand some special attention, happily given to him by his equally as pent up husband.
Zhongli thought about their little Welcome Home ritual as he stood on the dock, back straight and nearly bouncing up onto his toes as if that would help him see further over the horizon. Entire body buzzing in anticipation to see the familiar dots in the distance. The men who worked on unloading ships, and the merchants who pushed their wares each and every day had come to know him. Knowing his presence meant that a certain diplomat was set to be arriving, potentially meaning Liyue was set to be a bit more… exciting after his return. He always had a way of bringing chaos with him, branded with a reputation to match.
A few people who had some spare time would come up to speak with him. Old women asking what a ‘young man like him’ was waiting for, he’d happily tell them he was waiting for his husband, and in return the women would coo over young love. Workers who knew of Childe’s reputation would scoff and tell him he needed to keep that man on a leash (Zhongli would then bite his tongue that he did often have Childe on a leash- and that Childe was very receptive to it)
Even those who were not fans of Childe would have pleasant conversations, all of which rapidly interrupted the moment Zhongli could see his ship.
On this particular day he was speaking with an old woman who understood his experience well, her own husband being a military man who was often far from home. She went on about their days together, when he retired to pursue music, and showed him photos of their grandchildren. All things Zhongli listened to with intrigue-- then apologized profusely when he cut her short to race towards the docking ship, thankfully she fully understood and wished him well. Thanks to the distraction Zhongli hadn’t been right there where Childe had come to stand as he left the ship, but within seconds of his feet touching dry land Zhongli was wrapped around him-- running directly into him and nearly knocking the both of them into the water had it not been for Childe’s own well-honed balance. They held each other tightly, Zhongli muttering ‘welcome home’ in Childe’s ear and having to restrain the urge to purr when Childe responded that it was good to be home. He only loosened the constricting force of their embrace so he could kiss against the side of Childe’s cheek, pausing when it wasn’t smooth skin against his lips.
He leaned back, looking over Childe.
“Whaddya think? Dashing, isn’t it?” Childe gestured to his own face, smirking with both eyebrows raised like he was trying to woo Zhongli all over again.
It was not an impressive beard.
It was definitely there, paired with an equally scraggly mustache. There were patches along his jaw that seemed to be struggling to fill in, spots of blonde spattered through orange that didn’t help the hair seem any fuller. The mustache seemed to have grown in a bit better, but was curled and unkempt, making Childe’s attempt at a proud grin look a little bit goofy.
Zhongli sighed, chuckled affectionately, then pressed a kiss to Childe’s lips, trying his best to ignore the feeling of hair between the two of them and how stray curls tickled his nose.
“You’re laughing-- why are you laughing? Isn’t it handsome, sophisticated?” Childe pretended to be offended, pushing Zhongli away gently so he could see the ‘hurt’ in his eyes. “I think it makes me look a lot more mature-- isn’t that right?” He turned and nudged one of his subordinates who had been walking by unloading supplies. They seemed surprised at first-- then scoffed and carried on rolling their eyes at the question. Childe pouted, deepening to a scowl when Zhongli laughed.
“Well, it is difficult to say that it doesn’t look good on you.” Zhongli hummed, pulling Childe in close again and pressing a kiss to his cheek. “Everything looks good on you.” Punctuated with another kiss.
“That sounds to me like you don’t like it.” Childe furrowed his brows, still pretending to be upset that Zhongli wasn’t swooning over his masculine whiskers.
“You’ve come home looking worse.”
Childe’s next scowl was slightly real that time. He sighed, still struggling to carry on with the bit.
“Well, personally, I think it looks fantastic on me. I think it might be my new permanent look.” Childe planted a hand on his hip and stood with his chin held high to look as proud as possible. Zhongli cocked a brow at him, noticing very clearly the way Childe’s grin twitched as he held his pose. When he was sure nobody was looking he slumped closer to Zhongli to mutter close to his face. “Between you and me I can not wait to get this thing off of my face.” Zhongli had to stifle a laugh to not draw attention to the two of them. “I’ve got 100,000 mora on the line that I could keep the beard long term so if anybody asks you made me shave it off so I technically don’t have to pay for losing.” Zhongli shook his head as Childe looked around to make sure nobody heard his whispering.
“Then let us return home as quickly as possible.” Zhongli spoke, picking up some of Childe’s luggage to carry home. “Dinner should be ready once we return and you’ve settled in.” The mention of dinner made Childe’s eyes light up-- obviously missing warm, home-cooked meals. He gave one last bark of orders to his men for them to finish up here and report to Ekaterina, then grabbed the last remaining bag of his before scurrying to follow Zhongli home.
No matter how many times Childe entered the apartment after long treks, it never became less refreshing. That first breath in as he entered the door warmed him to his core, able to take in the scent of his lover that he’d come to miss. He left his bag by the door, stumbling forward until his knees met the armrest of the sofa before he let himself lean and flop forwards, face planting into the cushions with a content sigh. Zhongli watched, shaking his head at the show of his exhaustion, following behind to start taking Childe’s boots off for him. Carefully undoing the clasps of the leather, slipping each shoe off over ankles that ached and swelled from excessive walking and whatever sprains he may have endured on his trip. Zhongli pressed his thumbs to the bottom of Childe’s socked feet, working up to soothe his ankles, then pressing up along his calf muscles all while Childe remained face down where he had landed.
“Would you like a bath after dinner?”
“Hm… I think a shower will be fine…” Childe finally turned his head so he could speak, scratching at the underside of his jaw where the hairs irritated his skin. “as long as you join me.”
“Of course, my love.” Before Zhongli returned to the kitchen to check on their meal he pressed a kiss to the back of Childe’s head, taking a second to linger and run his fingers through his hair. He was sweaty and coated in a layer of sea-watery musk, his hair curling oddly from the moisture and dirt. Overall a mess.
But, a mess that was home.
And a mess that really wanted the pork he could smell cooking. His stomach grumbled as if he needed any more evidence of his hunger. He had contemplated taking Zhongli out for dinner on his return-- but now was glad they hadn’t made plans to. Childe wasn’t feeling too keen on going out and being seen at the moment-- a little too unshowered and unshaven to feel welcome in the restaurants they usually frequented. Maybe tomorrow they’d have a nice lunch, walk around Liyue, then have dinner at Wanmin. Or maybe they’d spend all day at home basking in each other’s company, alone to catch up on lost time.
But, for now, it was a home-cooked meal served and plated for Childe to scarf down. Stretching out his back before taking his seat at the table, each vertebrae cracking and popping and begging for Zhongli to work out the kinks in his poor, battered spine.
Typically it was Zhongli who would chatter on and on during their meals, happy to discuss history or personal stories as they ate. Maybe recount his day and whatever tomfoolery Director Hu was up to. This time he sat and ate quietly, watching enamored as Childe discussed details of his voyage he hadn’t covered in letters. Stories better told with the waves of his hands as he gestured to emphasize points, occasionally using a mocking tone to parrot something a subordinate may have said that he had found foolish. All in a range of events he found funny, to things that had irritated him during the trip. Zhongli soaked in each word, delighted to hear the voice of his lover again. Able to watch how he gestured, able to stare at his lips as he spoke. Able to reply in real time rather than in gaps of days or even weeks.
Eventually Childe managed to tire himself out, finishing his final story ranting about how one of his men snored like a sumpter beast with a dramatic sigh and slumping into his chair. Griping about how much sleep he’d lost before he purchased earmuffs and got used to sleeping in them.
“It was even worse than when you snore, zaychik.”
Zhongli paused, pouting slightly. “I snore?”
“Like an earthquake.” Childe chuckled as he lifted his teacup to his mouth. “But it’s very cute when it’s coming from you rather than some muscleheaded Snezhnayan soldier who needs to work on his hygiene.”
“I was… not aware. I hope I have not often kept you up.”
Childe shrugged. “I’ve gotten used to it, obviously. Otherwise I probably would have mentioned it sooner. Besides-- you only snore when you’re really deep in sleep, so at the very least I know you’re resting well… even though you don’t need to sleep.”
Zhongli still pouted, now thinking about the times he’d fallen asleep around other acquaintances of his while on trips. Had he kept them up as well? He had received a confusing noise complaint once after staying a night at Wangshu Inn that to this day he’d never figured out when he’d been loud-- to his knowledge he’d only been reading all day and the conversations he’d had with his visiting scholar friend had been at a proper volume-- were they complaining about his snoring?
Childe bumped him with his hip as he walked by him to carry their dishes to the kitchen, knocking him from his fretting.
“I told you, it’s endearing. Don’t go giving up sleeping ever again because you’re self-conscious about snoring now.”
“Maybe I should look into home remedies to aid in--“
“You’re fine. ” Childe stopped him with a quick kiss on the lips. “Now, onto more important matters.” Childe itched at his jaw. “Get this thing off of me.”
Childe easily could have shaved on his own- he knew how to. His father had made sure to teach him, even when he was too young to have any hair to shave. It’s something every man needs to know he’d say as he handed a training blade to little Ajax.
But even with practice he’d slip with the blade. He’d go too heavy handed and end up with a few nicks and cuts along the way. He wasn’t as patient as he needed to be with the process. Zhongli on the other hand was a bit of a perfectionist about it. When Childe didn’t feel like doing it himself, either because he was tired or grumpy, he’d ask for Zhongli’s help. His steady hands and endless patience kept Childe fully intact-- oftentimes soothing him to sleep and he’d wake up with a clean face. One time he’d fallen into an especially deep sleep during the process and woke up in their bed with his hair washed as well. Zhongli’s careful eye would also ensure no hairs were missed-- as Childe did have a habit of having to redo the process to deal with missed patches. Childe sometimes thought about just waxing his face, in his head a much faster process to be rid of the hair, but Zhongli wouldn’t let him. He’d go on about how bad it was for his skin, how delicate the skin on human faces is, all as he would lead Childe into the bathroom to do the work for him.
Zhongli hadn’t even started before Childe closed his eyes for a bit of rest once he was seated in the bathroom, listening as Zhongli busied himself at the sink. Running water to clean up, soaking a warm cloth to set on his face. Letting himself drift further away as Zhongli lathered his face, working the foam into the hairs and massaging away every ounce of exhaustion in his face.
With the first gentle swipe of the blade Childe thought about how he’d missed this. Not only just being in Zhongli’s presence, but being able to relax around another living being. Not having to worry about a knife being pushed through his chest, not having to worry about being tossed overboard while he slept on a creaking boat. Able to trust in another, to relax in his presence. Ironically feeling safer now than he had in the entirety of the last four months, all while Zhongli was literally pressing a blade to his throat.
As if to prove his point in that trust, Zhongli knew to back off with the blade for a moment so Childe could swallow. Watching as his Adam’s apple bobbed before carrying on. Without fail, every time after the first initial brush of the blade down his throat, Childe would swallow and sigh contently. Unable to deny that shiver that ran up his spine when he thought about Zhongli pressing a knife against the tender parts of his throat. How at any second a mere accident could spell disaster in that moment, yet it never did. It was all about that trust in each other. That trust in Zhongli’s skills. That trust in everything Zhongli was as a person. The intimacy of feeling every brush of the edge of the blade against his skin, knowing it may never come to harm him with ill intent.
Zhongli worked in silence, both for the sake of his own focus and for the fact Childe couldn’t really speak much in his current position. The silence only letting him nod off more and more-- he had no idea if he’d even fallen asleep at any point, zoned out of the passage of time only to suddenly be aware again of Zhongli cleaning up. The fresh feeling of air against his cheeks, uninterrupted by scratchy hair. Skin smooth and moisturized all while he dozed off.
“Beautiful, as always.” Zhongli purred when Childe lazily opened his eyes, brushing a hand against his cheek and smiling as Childe leaned into his touch. Pressing a sleepy kiss against his palm and holding onto his wrist as though he was begging for this moment to continue on forever. He wanted to pull Zhongli in close, to wrap his arms around his waist and bury his face into his stomach. Maybe lock his legs around him as well just to make sure Zhongli couldn’t get away. The urge only resisted because he was a bit more content to sit there letting Zhongli pet his face, thumb lazily stroking his cheek as he leaned more of his weight into his open hand.
As Zhongli tried to move to clean the blade for a final time, he felt Childe slide his hands up his thighs, snaking around to squeeze at his ass as he pressed his face against Zhongli’s stomach.
“Patience, darling. Don’t you want to get cleaned up after such a long journey?”
“Mmmm…” Childe mumbled against Zhongli’s belly, agreeing, but also feeling himself missing the company of his husband. “Fuck me in the shower?”
“I would rather we not have to worry about either of us slipping and falling- you have been gone a long time and I believe we have lost time to make up for, I would like the freedom to be more… rigorous, without worrying about our footing.” That seemed to quell Childe’s impatience, eyes lighting up with interest as he stared up at Zhongli from where his face remained pressed to his belly. Zhongli’s pectorals slightly interrupting their line of sight.
Zhongli was the first to step into the shower, fiddling with the temperature until he knew it would be just right to soothe Childe’s aching muscles. When they had first met Childe was the sort to take showers as frigid as ice, leaving him shivering and blue in the lips by the time he was done, it was only because of shared moments like these that he’d taken a liking to warmer showers. Seeing as it was the only way to take a shower with Zhongli as he refused to have the water temperature be any lower than comfortably hot. (Childe often laughs about it, referring to it as “cold blooded lizard behavior” much to the dismay of his dragon husband)
Once Childe stripped of his clothes and joined him Zhongli set to work lathering shampoo into his hair, tangling his fingers into lovely orange curls, massaging his scalp, gentle attention that wasn’t doing any favours in helping Childe stay awake after he’d already napped during the previous pampering. Floral scents filled the air between them, washing away the sweat and grime of hard work and survival that Childe had coated himself in. Another habit that Childe had picked up from living with Zhongli: indulging in fancy soaps. He used to be the type to use anything he could get his hands on, but now found himself drawn to the scents of delicate florals, fancy oils that kept his skin soft and bright. As Zhongli worked on shampooing his hair Childe lathered soap over his own skin, able to take the time to take care of himself and feel refreshed and cleaned. Zhongli’s hand slowly slid up Childe’s throat to his chin, a gentle nudge urging him to tilt his head back under the water to rinse his hair, leaning his back against Zhongli’s chest as he did so for balance. Before he stood back up Zhongli pressed a kiss to the side of his head, free hand wrapping around his chest to squeeze his pectoral, fingers teasing his nipple during their moment of intimacy.
Childe chuckled “I thought you didn’t want to get frisky in the shower?” He turned his head to look back at Zhongli.
“I can’t help it when you’re in front of me like this. Taunting a starving man with such a delicacy.” Zhongli murmured against his ear before licking at his neck, both hands now rubbing against his chest. Childe could feel Zhongli’s cock hardening against his backside, he rolled his hips back against him slightly to tease him more. Childe had only managed to cum once during his entire voyage, ever since the first time he’d slept with Zhongli he found it difficult to cum without his cock inside of him in someway. He’d tried his own fingers yet could never reach deep enough, even toys could hardly scratch that itch he had in his core. That single orgasm he had managed to have was a bit of an act of drunken desperation, he’d retreated to his quarters after several rounds of firewater with his men. He had sat down to write to Zhongli afterwards, unable to corral his drunken mind from starving for the touch of his lover. A few more glasses from his personal stash of alcohol later and he had found himself spasming with one of those bottles buried deep inside of himself- the shame and aches he felt the next morning deterred him from ever trying that again.
All to mean he was a little pent up.
And Zhongli wasn’t faring much better.
He had never been one for… pleasuring himself, yet after meeting Childe he found his libido had increased tenfold. Centuries of abstaining from trivial pleasures ended in an instant after a single wet dream. Zhongli likes to insist that having sex with Childe was the first orgasm he’d experienced in many decades… when the truth was he’d simply taken care of his morning wood in bed with his hand and a few dirty thoughts to help him along. Thoughts of a man he had only had a few meetings with but desired in more ways than purely sexual. Romantically. Emotionally. Carnally. Yet Zhongi had been so ashamed after that he could hardly just… masturbate anymore. And when he’d tried he always craved his dear husband. His own hand could only do so much to mimic the delicious fluttering and clenching of muscles trained to so eagerly take his length.
So Zhongli made quick work of helping Childe clean up. Rinsing away soap and grime, stealing kisses here and there. Trying to ignore how Childe’s half hardened cock kept brushing against his thigh… such a needy thing.
So needy, in fact, that he slowly lowered himself to his knees as Zhongli tried to busy himself with washing his own hair.
“Childe--”
“Come on. We don’t have to fuck-- I just…” Childe licked his lips, squinting slightly as stray drops of water bounced onto his face. “I just need…”
Zhongli sighed, hands still in his own hair as he brushed shampoo through the strands with his fingers.
“Alright.”
Childe’s face lit up, nearly diving forward before Zhongli spoke again.
“However. No sucking.”
Childe scowled, brow furrowing.
“And why not?”
“Safety. I still worry for our footing in here.”
Childe rolled his eyes, sighing dramatically.
“Alright… I won’t suck…” Childe promised, eyes falling from Zhongli’s face to the girthy, fat cock that was level with his face.
“Mm, good boy…” Zhongli hummed.
Certainly, if there was any way to ensure Childe behaved, it was those two little words. His plans to disobey dashed and replaced with a desire to serve… he wanted to be good. He wanted to be Zhongli’s special, good boy. To be praised like a needy dog, and rewarded as one that was well behaved. So he adjusted how he was seated, parting his lips and looking up at Zhongli. Blue eyes intense, but still somehow soft with submission.
Zhongli couldn’t help but purr. Running a hand through Childe’s hair, steadying his head. The other wrapping around his own cock to guide it to the eager mouth awaiting. Breath hitching as Childe’s lips first kissed the shaft (Zhongli noticed they were a little chapped…) before parting to take the girth in as best as he could. Oral was sometimes a little… difficult. Childe had to go slowly, having trained himself to be able to take something so thick into his mouth. Fighting the urge to suck and bob his head was nearly agony for Childe, shuddering and letting out a low whine… pushing his head as far forward as he could while keeping his airway still clear. Even though he truly wanted to choke in this moment…
Childe’s mouth was something Zhongli missed. Both in kisses, and this. He closed his eyes as he settled into the warmth, feeling Childe’s tongue flex against the underside of his shaft. Feeling the vibrations as Childe hummed high in his throat… It took immense self control to not throw caution to the wind and take what he wanted. Alas, Zhongli intended to finish in the shower before indulging. Moving his hands away from Childe’s face, and back to his own hair. Finishing lathering the soap, then rinsing. Running his fingers methodically through long streaks of brown and amber, all while Childe obediently sat at his feet. Zoned out in bliss as he felt, in a way, perhaps a purpose of his was being fulfilled like this.
Now– he would never abandon the Tsaritsa. His true purpose was as her vanguard… yet… he did often entertain a life that consisted of just this. The irony of serving a different God than his own, in a way…
He hadn’t noticed the way his eyes had closed, jolting as he leaned forward subconsciously and choked slightly, Zhongli’s hand gently pressing to his forehead to nudge him backward. A gentle reminder to keep still, as well as a short moment to ensure Childe was okay.
The last thing they needed right now was an emergency trip to Dr. Baizhu to have a traumatic throat injury dealt with…
He adjusted again. Returning to his duty. Watching as Zhongli finally finished with washing his hair.
“Good boy…” Zhongli cooed, smiling so sweetly down at his dearest Ajax. A hand carding through his bangs, fingers tracing along his jaw and down his chin as he praised him. He could feel Childe’s lips twitch around his cock-- an attempt at a smile despite having his mouth full and lips stretched.
The water was turned off, and towels retrieved. Gentle hands helping Childe stand back up, and even gentler lips pressing kisses to his cheeks as Zhongli dried his hair. Ruffling it to get the excess water off. Pressing a kiss to Childe’s nose as he took a moment to appreciate how cute he looked–- disheveled, flushed, freshly shaven, and wrapped in a warm and fluffy towel. Being pampered as he deserved.
“Now can we have sex?”
Zhongli blinked, snorted, then sighed adoringly. Shaking his head slightly.
“Yes.”
Childe didn’t even bother wrapping a towel around his waist, nor making an attempt to cover himself at all. Simply skipping past Zhongli into their shared bedroom, flopping into the bed and onto his back. Arms spread open and hands grasping at empty air as a summons for his lovely husband to climb on top of him. Zhongli couldn’t help but chuckle at the display… a noble, scarred, and muscular warrior pleading and demanding snuggles. A silly grin plastered on his face and expectant eyes wide with excitement.
How could one not indulge him?
Zhongli took long strides to reach the bed, hands pressed to the mattress on either side of Childe’s head. Lowering himself down to kiss the apple of Childe’s cheek. Then the corner of his mouth. His jaw. His neck. Sweet kisses peppered and trailing down Childe’s dampened skin as he took a moment to worship the specimen in front of him. Tongue occasionally darting out to trace the contour of muscle.
It was Zhongli’s turn to kneel at Childe’s feet. Nuzzling against his thigh, kissing his stomach, licking along the crease where Childe’s groin connected to his hip. Showering him in desire and devotion, all as his lover tried his best to not squirm and fuss to get his way quicker.
“Zhongli…” Childe breathed, hands carding through Zhongli’s hair-– he hadn’t noticed his eyes had slipped shut as he rested his head on Childe’s lap. Eyes opening to see the eager cock twitching in front of his face.
“Mm...? Oh, yes.” Zhongli chuckled, almost as if he’d forgotten and then remembered what he was doing-- causing Childe to huff and shuffle his thighs further apart.
“You’ve made me wait this long-- don't go dozing off on me.” He chuckled, tapping a finger against the top of Zhongli’s head.
“I would never dream of it, my dear ~” Zhongli purred, palm flat against Childe’s thigh and stroking up the meat of his leg with a practiced, slow motion. Rounding his touch over Childe’s hips, reaching around to gently grope Childe’s rear, pulling him closer slightly.
Childe hummed, taking this to mean Zhongli intended to return the favour for earlier…
Zhongli leaned forward, pressing a kiss to the base of Childe’s cock, before licking up the shaft. Tongue swirling the tip, and a small smile gracing Zhongli’s lips as he felt Childe’s thighs stiffen under his touch. As much as the warrior tried to stifle his reactions-- he never could control himself when it came to Zhongli. Especially not when Zhongli’s lips wrapped around the head of his cock, tongue gently prodding the slit.
“Oh-- f-fuck--” Childe gasped, head craned back as his hips bucked slightly. Earning a satisfied hum from Zhongli.
Childe was by no means… well endowed. Far from it, in fact. But, that was one of many things Zhongli adored about him. Especially when it meant he could easily take Childe’s entire cock into his mouth, lips wrapping around the base as he suckled and hummed, using his tongue to stimulate the underside of Childe’s penis. All things he could spend ages doing, especially when Childe’s back arched, and he heard him choke on his own voice. Fingers tangling in Zhongli’s hair and pulling slightly as Childe tried to grind his hips forward into Zhongli’s mouth. Rocking gently against Zhongli’s tongue as he chased the high he had spent months craving-- then quickly whimpering and trying to nudge Zhongli backwards as he realized how close he was.
Many months lacking companionship left him… a little too eager.
Zhongli didn’t budge, hands digging into Childe’s hips as he growled lowly and pushed further forward, like his life depended on latching onto Childe’s cock.
“Zh-Zhongli-- wait-- I’m gonna--” Childe hardly had time to warn before Zhongli swallowed a mouthful of precum, the motion causing his tongue to flex against the underside of Childe’s cock. He couldn’t help himself… bucking forward with a harsh jolt, finally giving in to the orgasm he was so intently trying to subdue.
Childe had such a pretty voice when he orgasmed. It would come out high-pitched and breathy. His voice even cracking slightly if he tried to speak. His whole body would tighten, muscles spasming as he snapped his thighs shut around Zhongli’s head.
A death sentence for a lesser man, but Zhongli took it in stride. Not letting it interrupt him as he sucked down and swallowed each spurt of cum that splashed over this tongue-- making a quick recovery when the first shot had hit the back of his throat and made him gag slightly in surprise.
After a few moments, Childe nudged Zhongli’s forehead again.
“S-stop-- too much--” He insisted, shaking as the waves of pleasure started to twist and ache slightly. His high finished and body needing a moment to recuperate.
Zhongli groaned for a moment, considering not listening… but the look on Childe’s face made him change his mind. He pulled back with a wet pop, giving one last lick to Childe’s tip as he watched Childe’s face change from a grimace, to relief as he slumped back onto the mattress. Chest rising and falling as he tried to catch his breath. Zhongli purred, soothing the slight tremor in his muscles by gently patting and stroking Childe’s hip. Nuzzling against his thigh as he contently observed each little twitch of Childe’s cock, aftershocks slowly subsiding.
“Are you alright to keep going?” Zhongli eventually spoke up, breaking the silence after he’d spent enough time just listening to Childe breathing.
A moment of hesitation, Childe having to pause and gauge what more he could or not not take…
“Yes.” He eventually affirmed, pushing himself up onto his elbows. He’s still soft, but his cock at least twitched slightly as if trying to show interest. Leaving a small wet smear against his thigh where it leaked– although, that could just be Zhongli’s saliva.
There’s another moment of hesitation, Zhongli pushing himself up off of his knees and leaning over Childe. Looking him up and down and trying to gauge if he can really take another round; Childe has never been one for acknowledging his own limits. Though, a gentle kick to the side of Zhongli's calf urges him forward.
“Come on. It’s your turn…” Childe grumbled, definitely having perked back up after being spent but a moment ago.
“You’re sure you can handle more?” Zhongli asked. He is concerned for his husband’s limits… but he may also just be being a little cheeky. He always loved the way Childe sounded when he got needy, little whines as he begged for what he wanted. That beautiful little pout when he caught Zhongli treating him a little too tenderly.
“Yes-- I’m sure.” Childe stated. Sitting up more to bring his face closer to Zhongli’s. “Hurry up and fuck me, or I may just have to be the one to tie you up for once to ensure you get off.” Childe smirked.
Zhongli felt the corner of his own lip twitch upwards– he was normally the one handling the ropes, though the idea of Childe attempting to take on that role wasn’t entirely unappealing.
“Oh?”
“I could ride you-- but as you’re being a complete tease, I may just return the favour and not let you touch me~” Childe chuckled, hands behind his head as he leaned back, grinning at Zhongli as he eyed him up and down.
Zhongli was still very hard, telling Childe all he needed to know about how he could get his way right now. A horny dragon is often one with little patience.
“Well…” Zhongli purred, voice low as he leaned back slowly. “That is a tempting offer…”
It was clear Childe’s own patience was thinning. His cock hardening again as he desperately tried to play his cards right. Trying to act cocky as if he were the one in charge and not subtly begging for dick.
Grin faltering as he sighed. The loaded eye contact making him groan.
“Zhongliiiiiiiii—” He whined, not long worried about saving face. Simply letting himself act as a brat. “We haven’t see each other for months and you’re being such a tease!” He kicked a foot slightly, heel knocking the side of the bed.
Zhongli hummed, a tiny little pleased tune. “They do say ‘distance makes the heart grow fonder ’.” Zhongli mused. “Perhaps a little abstinence could–”
“That’s not what that means and you know it!” Childe barked, sitting up again. Brows furrowed, frustration clear.
An incredibly amusing display for Zhongli. While his own self control was rapidly waning, he could never deny a chance to tease and play with his beautiful husband. A delicate balancing act as he sat as casually as he could between Childe’s legs. His own cock stiff, throbbing, and leaking a small puddle of precum onto the floor.
“Are you sure you can take it--”
“Come on! Fuck me like an animal.” Childe flopped back and wiggled his hips at Zhongli. “Fuck me like you’re trying to get me pregnant so I can’t leave you again...”
Childe smirked to himself when he could visibly see Zhongli’s hair prickle at the request, knowing just the right buttons to hit to work up that dragon instinct of his. A split second where Zhongli’s eyes widened slightly, and his muscles stiffened. Pupils dilated before he blinked and cleared his throat to try and cover up such an intense reaction.
“Ah-- well…”
“Just imagine it… me as your pretty little wife who can’t stray too far from home…” Childe hummed, eagerly taking advantage of the upper hand.
An incredibly dangerous game to play with a dragon who had about four months of desire bottled up inside of him that he was already holding back like a dam. Although, Childe did like dangerous games.
The low rumble in Zhongli’s throat, a silent threat, a promise, confirmed to Childe that he was getting what he wanted.
Zhongli didn’t even say another word, slowly stalking up the bed before lunging forward to bury his face in the crook of Childe’s neck, taking a deep breath, then running his tongue along Childe’s pulse point.
“Brat… such a brat…” Zhongli growled, teeth scraping tender skin and sending a shiver down Childe’s spine. All as he keened and squirmed in delight.
“Mm, but, I am your brat--” Childe tried to coo, cut off as a sharp pain radiated from his shoulder. Followed by a wet warmth. Predatorial teeth sinking in his flesh for just a moment as Zhongli indulged himself. A deep mark that bled, then was soothed by Zhongli’s tongue lapping up what leaked forth from it. The pain making Childe’s mouth run dry as he swallowed thickly.
He could never deny that the specific way Zhongli made him feel like a prey animal at times made him feel insane.
The desire to consume, and to be consumed.
Fingers tangling into Zhongli’s still damp hair as more licks and bites were left on Childe’s skin. Zhongli smiling as he pressed his teeth against the front of Childe’s throat and felt him shudder. Not enough pressure to seriously hurt him-- he wouldn’t dare to do such a thing-- just enough of a threat to give Childe a nice reminder of how delicate a human life is. How delicate, and how human, his life is.
Clawed hands make easy work of marking Childe up in other ways, too. Dragging Nails up his stomach and over his chest, running the pads of his fingers over Childe’s nipples. Making sure to dig his claws into Childe’s hips to leave marks he could match his hands up with later. Like signing his name onto poetry. Gentle trickles of blood staining skin that was already tinted pink as Childe flushed red, nearly dizzy with arousal as Zhongli figuratively (mostly) eats him alive.
How Zhongli wished he could cut a clean line down Childe’s center, flay him open, and crawl into his ribs. To nestle close to the beating heart that gives his lover so much life.
But, he knows he can’t. For now he’s content guiding Childe to roll onto his back, legs spread, hips raised. He has other ways to get himself inside of such a pretty body. Ways that do require a bit of preparation…
Childe knows this, so he tries to reach across the bed, crawling forward a bit to try and retrieve a bottle of lubricant from the nightstand. He knows exactly where it is, as it’s always kept on hand for moments just like this. Something that can be grabbed quickly without disturbing the flow of the moment.
Zhongli, though, has other plans. Claws digging into soft hips once more to drag Childe back towards him.
“I have… other methods in mind…” He purred, pressing a kiss to Childe’s shoulder blade, hands traversing down the expanse of his muscular back before groping the swell of his freckled ass cheeks.
The saliva of a dragon is a wonderful thing.
Most know it for its healing properties, or the way it can invigorate one when consumed.
It’s also remarkably slick compared to the saliva of humans. It also doesn’t dry nearly as quickly… which does have its negatives when it comes to cleaning up after certain activities. But, in moments like this, it’s perfect.
Childe can hardly ask for clarification before Zhongli’s thumbs pry his cheeks apart, and a thick glob of drool is spat directly onto his anus, making Childe jump slightly.
“Zhongli--!” He exclaimed, not really with any intent to carry on with a further statement. Which is fine, as he wasn’t granted another chance to speak before the flat of Zhongli’s tongue drew a slow line up the crease of his ass. A slick trail left behind from Childe’s perineum, up to his tailbone. Zhongli grinning to himself as he felt the full body shudder roll through his precious lover, and got to hear that pretty voice croak out a little “ hahh—”
It doesn’t take much to leave Childe speechless in bed, his fists gripping the bedsheets as he keeps his head lowered, and hips raised. Silently presenting himself to Zhongli as he keeps his mouth shut, finished with his earlier bravado.
Sure, he was getting his way, further solidifying Childe’s streak as a total brat and ensuring that, in the future, Zhongli would never know peace. But, even so, Zhongli was the one calling the shots-- so they both could consider this a win.
It was especially a win for Childe as he arched his back, throwing his head back when Zhongli’s tongue slithered into his asshole, working his sphincter muscles open to accept the intruding muscle as it swirled and coated his insides with Zhongli’s spit. Making Childe gasp and shudder as he felt it brush his prostate unintentionally, Childe’s hips pushing back slightly against Zhongli’s face as he choked out a tiny noise.
Zhongli makes good use of his more inhuman traits. Tongue lengthened, draconic, to push deep into Childe, making sure he’s worked open and lubricated, drool dripping down the crease of Childe’s ass and down his balls. It wasn't until Zhongli was satisfied that he pulled back, a long string of spit connecting his lips to Childe’s pink pucker. Leaving it thoroughly soaked and worked open, he purred to himself as the ring of pink twitched and clenched around nothing. Of course, earning a muffled groan from where Childe was face down against the mattress.
“Now, now, baobei, don’t be so impatient…” Zhongli cooed, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand, then pushing two fingers into Childe’s anus, taking a moment to gauge the stretch.
“J-just-- hahh-- hurry up--” Childe breathed out, trying to look over his shoulder. Lower lip caught between his teeth as he clenched around Zhongli’s fingers as they gently curled and prodded inside of him, expertly and cruelly avoiding his prostate. He’d try pushing his hips back were it not for Zhongli’s other hand gripping his ass cheek to hold him in place, a dull ache from fingers digging into flesh.
Zhongli clicked his tongue, a gentle tutting as he shook his head at Childe’s eagerness.
Though, as much as he loved to tease, he himself was getting impatient. Finding it harder and harder to hold back the desire to fold Childe in ways that most humans wouldn’t be able to manage. Thankfully, Childe was not most humans-- though, the creative positions could wait for another time.
He slowly crawled up the bed, nuzzling his nose against the back of Childe’s head. Taking a deep breath to enjoy Childe’s scent mixed with the shampoo from earlier, hair still damp and slightly curled. Nosing the back of Childe’s neck as he gently rolled his hips forward, tip of his cock nudging the crease of Childe’s ass, smearing precum over milky skin. Tender touches that made Childe shiver and whine, trying to buck his hips up and back to get even just a touch more friction. Zhongli pressed one last kiss behind Childe’s ear, before leaning back slightly, a hand carding through Childe’s hair, fingers tangling with the orange locks before he suddenly shoved Childe’s face down into the mattress.
“Now, be a good boy and stay still…”
Childe would have loved to nod, but Zhongli’s grip on his hair said otherwise. Which was fine with him. The sting to his scalp made Childe’s eyes flutter as he drawled a muffled moan into the bedsheet. Struggling to stop himself from trembling when Zhongli’s other hand moved, thumb pressing into the globe of Childe’s ass cheek to pull the flesh aside, cock kissing his hole as he tried his best to guide himself into that sweet embrace with just one hand.
“Breathe…” Zhongli had to sweetly whisper, watching Childe’s shoulders shudder as he let out a breath he hadn’t realized he was holding. The anticipation clear in his muscles; tightened and stiff as he awaited the initial ache of penetration. Zhongli’s hand gently sliding up his back, tracing the line of his spine, trying to softly soothe him to relax.
A little more saliva, a little more cooing, and Zhongli slowly pushed his hips forwards, letting out a deep groan as he felt Childe’s plush insides massage his cock. His heart fluttered at the sound of Childe gasping so sweetly, mouth open in a silent whimper as Zhongli’s cock slowly speared him open. He felt a little tighter than usual-- but such was to be expected after so much time away from each other. Zhongli moved slowly, carefully listening to each little sound Childe made, eyes locked on the way his rim stretched to accommodate Zhongli’s girth. Slowly swallowing up each inch of his length until their hips were pressed flush together, Zhongli’s balls twitching against Childe’s perineum.
He leaned down to nuzzle Childe’s hair again. Hands slipping under his chest to rub soothing circles over Childe’s pectorals and up his shoulders. Whispering sweet nothings into his ear.
“You’re doing so well… you feel so good…” He’d whisper so tenderly as Childe took deep breaths, focusing on keeping his muscles relaxed and ready for Zhongli’s use. Gentle rolls of Zhongli’s hips as he slowly grinded against Childe, showering him in kisses and praise as he rocked into that deep, tight heat.
“Fuck… I forgot… h-how big you are…” Childe panted out, arching as Zhongli’s hips pulled back slightly and pushed forward, drawing a choked mewl from Childe’s throat.
“Just relax… I know you can take it…” Zhongli cooed, fingers running through Childe’s hair.
“Can… can feel it in my stomach…” Childe breathed out, voice slightly muffled against the mattress. Breath hitching when one of Zhongli’s hands snaked around his throat, making him lift his head. Not quite choking him, just pressing the junction between his thumb and index finger up under Childe’s jaw to make him slightly dizzy as he sucked down a deep breath.
“Good boy… such a good boy…” Zhongli whispered, kissing behind Childe’s ear. Slowly increasing his pace and letting low growls bubble up from his throat, teeth nipping Childe’s skin and tongue lapping up his sweat as Zhongli’s thrusts slowly pushed harder and deeper. Childe’s voice raising in volume and pitch each time Zhongli’s balls slapped against his own. Eager mewls only ceasing when Zhongli pushed two of his fingers into Childe’s mouth, rubbing against his tongue and the inside of his cheek as he took what he wanted. What he needed. Making Childe’s eyes roll back and drool dribble down his chin as Zhongli’s pace became less tender. It became greedy and desperate. Growling deeply against Childe’s neck as he left more and more bite marks, tasting sweat and iron on his tongue as he indulged himself in the body he so badly missed. Cherishing the sound of Childe’s choked moans and gasps around his fingers as he fucked him harder, faster, and deeper.
Zhongli lost focus-- hardly realizing how rough he was being until Childe stiffened and choked, whole body tightening and shuddering; his orgasm evident. Silky insides clenching tightly around Zhongli’s cock as Childe cried out around Zhongli’s fingers, eyes rolled back in his head as the pleasure overwhelmed him.
Zhongli followed close behind, he was so worked up that there was no way he could hold back when Childe’s insides gripped him, milking him for all he had. He grunted, burying his teeth into Childe’s shoulder as his hips stuttered, pressing firmly against Childe’s ass to get as deep as he could go. Feet scrambling against the bed for purchase as they both struggled through the intensity, Zhongli’s cock pulsing as his balls tightened and emptied into Childe’s awaiting bowels. Each hot spurt making Childe shudder, the excess dripping out, dribbling down his taint and staining the sheets.
Zhongli eventually slumped, fingers falling out from Childe’s mouth as he lay limply on top of the other. Each breathing deeply and desperately to try and recover, dazed and tingling as their bodies twitched-- each tiny movement causing the other to suck in a short breath at the overstimulating shocks.
Both of them just wanted to sleep like that. Exhausted from emotions, exhausted from the sex. Buried in each other’s warmth with Zhongli’s heartbeat slowly steadying against Childe’s back…
“Are you alright…?” Zhongli eventually croaked, shifting slightly to lift at least a bit of his weight off of Childe.
“I’m great… tired…” Childe groaned, eyes closed as he lay flat on the mattress clearly uninterested in the necessary clean-up.
Zhongli chuckled, perhaps he could indulge him. They could be a little bad. Putting off the clean-up until morning, and Zhongli could merely enjoy having his cock warmed for the night. He wrapped his arms tightly around Childe, nuzzled against him, and pressed a kiss to the back of his head.
“Goodnight, baobei. I am glad you’re home…”
The next morning they took things slowly, Zhongli handling breakfast and certain chores as Childe rested in bed. Starting his day off from work by sleeping in a few hours later than usual. Once some of the cleaning had been handled, Zhongli climbed into bed beside Childe, running a hand over his stomach and returning the sweet smile his lover offered him.
As Zhongli settled he looked to Childe, watching the way his eyes moved over his form, his eyebrows knit together slightly like he was deep in thought.
“Do you have something on your mind, baobei?”
“Yeah, you can’t… actually get me pregnant, can you?” Childe murmured, half embarrassed by the question.
Zhongli stared, then chuckled, then pressed a kiss to Childe’s nose as his husband pouted at his reaction. “No, my love. I can not. At least not without some extra work.”
“Extra work?”