Archive of Our Own

The ginko leaves crunch under his feet. The air is as crisp as he remembers, the merchants yelling their tag lines will never get old. Liyue is as thriving as he remembers, “So, how is it?” He turned to the man beside him, one he is wedded to, “Is it as you’ve remembered?” Ocean-blue eyes expectantly gaze at him, hoping the view does not disappoint him.

To that, he merely smiled, nodding at his remark, “Yes. It is…a bit nostalgic.” Absence makes the heart grow fonder, and it certainly applies to the very nation he nurtured from the ground. His sharp nose picked up a familiar scent, that of dark cocoa, “Do you…ever regret leaving?” The scent of anxiety radiated from the omega beside him.

Ajax is worried he regrets his decision. He can’t help the chuckle leaving his lips. Even after all this time spent, does his wife not know his heart? “No.” He shook his head, “After all, I spent that time with you. Why should I regret it?” Pink dust pale cheeks, “Sweet talker. Let’s go.” He let hands interlace with his own, pulling him to fall in step with his beloved. Not much changed in a year ever since he decided to leave Liyue in favour of accompanying his mate. They went to Inazuma where they met a lovely girl who made fireworks from scratch, they went to Fontaine, spending a brief moment in the Fortress of Meropide before entering a place that was never meant for the residents of Teyvat.

A thrilling adventure with a worrying end. Ajax was in a deep slumber for a week. All he could do at the time was simply stay beside him, holding his hand in hopes he would recover soon. He knew he should have stopped him from using that foul transformation that would put a dent in his health. Thankfully, he recovered on the first day of the second week. The moment he did, the first sentence he said was;

“Let’s go to Liyue.”

Completely disregarding the fact he just woke up from what is essentially, a week-long coma. And now here they are, back in Liyue. When asked why the impulsive journey, Ajax simply shrugged.

“No reason.”

With no particular emotion in his eyes. Then again, his omega has always been a little…hard to read. His scent didn’t leave any clue for him either, a shame. Though perhaps he shouldn’t be thinking of it too much, their trip to Fontaine was impulsive too, even though one way or another, they did not end up visiting with the prospect of vacation and instead an…unplanned business trip.

Hopefully, their trip to Liyue does not have surprises. Ajax brought him to all parts of the harbour, seeing old sights and new, truly a view he could never get tired of. At night, they tour the marketplace, “Ajax, this-“ A bag of mora is given to him, “Go buy it.” A fond smile on the man’s lips, “Thank you.” The cling of mora and the jingle of the merchant’s pleased laughter fade as they walk away.

He trains his eyes on the unique shape of the talisman. The dull sheen of the jade reflects its old age, the weight of the trinket spoke about the exquisite material used to craft it, “What is that by the way?” He blinked, glancing to his right, seeing Ajax scooting closer to see what he bought, “It is once a talisman of some sort for couples that yearn for a child. They would hang this in front of their room and ask Rex Lapis to grant them a child each day before bed.” His thumb grazed a part of the dusty surface, wiping it clean.

“They use lotus jade to carve the talisman symbolizing Liyuen zodiacs. Some are rats, some could be dragons, and this,” He held the talisman closer to his beloved, “Is a rabbit.” Ajax hummed, nodding, “You said lotus jade? I didn’t know there are different types of jade.” He easily recalls the story of why the name came to the mineral, “At the time of the discovery, this jade is harvested from a special type of lotus growing on the edge of a cliff.” Different from how usual lotus would grow on water.

“It gained the name resilient lotus. Since it could only be found by people that possess the resilience to climb a high and dangerous cliff.” He glanced at his wife who was still immersed in his story, a rare opportunity since he would daze off by now, “But because of that special trait, harvesting the jade becomes a feat not many would willingly do. As the seasons change and the years pass, the soil is no longer the same, creating a different environment for the resilient lotus. Sadly, the flower now only exists in textbooks as a miracle flower of some sort.” Ajax blinked, “Miracle flower? Why?” To this day, he still has no idea how it lived up to the role.

“Because it granted every couple a child or more.” Truly one of the wonders he never has the explanation for, “The lotus represents purity and birth. Its natural vibrant red colour represents celebration and joy. Thus, it became the origin tale of how this talisman came to be.” Ajax hummed, nodding, clarity colouring his eyes, “Yeah, that does make sense after hearing the whole truth.” He sensed the unspoken elephant in the room, felt the pair of eyes gazing at him.

He hurries to clarify why he bought the talisman, “I have never owned an artifact made from lotus jade before. Much less this popular form of talisman, hence I asked for the mora to purchase this. Although I apologize for the exorbitant price since it is classified as an extinct ore.” Ajax hummed, “It’s okay. Mora can be earned.” A sweet smile like sugar cane itself plastered on his lips.

Still, even with an explanation he still felt an unsettling air in between the two of them. He regrets bringing up the topic of children on their way to Zapolyarny Palace. It was meant more as a…fleeting topic of conversation. That particular discussion easily resurfaces,

“Ajax, what do you think of children?”

His wife pries his gaze away from the window to meet his eyes, the hands carding through his hair felt pleasant.

“I like them. Why?”

He knew the answer even before the man even spoke of it. He sees how well he treats his baby brother, going through unspeakable lengths just for him. The children in the small village of Morepesok adore him and see him as a hero, a testament to his statement.

“I was…wondering, if you would like one.”

His question was soft, reflecting his fear and anxiety that the man perhaps would not want one with him.

“Of course, if it’s with you.”

But the smile that shines like the sun spoke more than words could ever. They didn’t continue their conversation after. He knew Ajax is also Childe, and Childe, is also Tartaglia, the Eleventh Harbinger loyal to the Tsaritsa. He knew he could not be selfish, he knew that Ajax still have his duty. And he wouldn’t be a good husband if he were to utter his desire if it hinders his beloved, no?

Thus, he never spoke of the matter again. And the talisman at hand he bought was an…impulsive decision. One that his mind did not weigh whether he should buy it or not. Perhaps it was his subconsciousness, eager to be selfish in the form of a silly talisman, the fact of not owning a lotus jade before was used as an excuse, rather than his primary reason. He didn’t foresee Ajax to question his purchase. And lying is out of the table between the two of them. He will never hide something from his beloved ever again, it is a promise he made the moment they reconcile.

Despite the unpleasant tension between them, Ajax expertly dissipates it the more they walk and talk. They enjoy a nostalgic delicious dinner in Wanmin, ordering the same old items with different conversations.
Perhaps a child is something that is out of the question for them. But as long as he can have Ajax, staving off that desire is as easy as flipping his hand. He cannot, would not, ask for more.

A press of lips on his taps into his consciousness, waking him up from beyond the plane of slumber. He smiles at the tender movement of soft lips, slowly urging him up. He curls his hand on a lithe waist, slipping inside a loose shirt to caress a supple skin marred with scars. The man locked on a kiss with him giggling, “Tickles.” His sweet laugh vibrated throughout his body.

He opens his eyes to see a view he could never get tired of, Ajax, smiling from ear to ear as his giggles fill the small space between them, sunset locks tousled from his sleep, his freckles dusted in a pink hue, his ocean-blue eyes so vibrant and full of his joy. He always finds himself forgetting to breath whenever he sees his beloved, simply breathtaking, literally, and figuratively.

“You are up early.” Usually, the one waking up first has always been him. He lost count of how many times he had to wake the man up an hour before the appointed time just because of how much of a heavy sleeper he is. It’s strange, how a warrior can sleep so soundly. He poses that question to his wife on a curious day and the answer makes him warm to his core.

“Because I have my strong husband to protect me, no?”

A sheepish smile adorned the man’s lips, “Really? Do I have that bad of a rep with waking up early?” Ajax scratches his head, “Yes. I have to attempt to wake you up an hour before the time you are supposed to wake up.” He doesn’t mince his words and the man adorably pouts, “Save me from the details, would you?” He laughs, nodding, pulling the man closer, “You must stop me in that case.” A suggestive glint colour ocean-blue eyes. Familiar hands entangle themselves in his hair, pulling, tugging at him to come closer, “Gladly.” As lips claim him in yet another addicting kiss.

He can foresee that today would be a lazy day. He can tell from the way his beloved kisses him, from the way legs tangles with his, from the soft conversation shared between them. He isn’t keen on leaving for anywhere either, eager to spend a rare moment of reprieve with his beloved. So colour him surprise, “Let’s go on a trip to Mount Aocang.” When it is Ajax, the one that always suggests they have a quiet rest day, to instead suggest a trip, to Mount Aocang no less.

“I thought you wanted to have a quiet day.” His beloved shrugged, “We can do that tomorrow. We should go now though, before we arrive back to Liyue too late.” He chuckles, shaking his head, “Love, you seem to forget we can go anywhere,” He grasps Ajax’s hand, teleporting them to the ruins in Guili Plains, “Without needing to actually walk.” Clarity colours ocean-blue eyes, “Right.” He teleports them back to their lodging.

“Still, no time to waste. Let’s take a bath.” He raised an eyebrow, “Is that an invitation I hear?” Ajax smiles, a playful lilt to his lips, “You bet.” They bathed together, having small pauses here and there to truly…clean their bodies, “Look at the time.” His beloved frowns disapprovingly when they are out of the bathroom, “It’s past noon, we won’t make it in time.” He blinked, “In time? In time for what? You have other places to visit?” He sees a glimmer of panic, as if the man accidentally took a wrong step. But it was gone in a flash as if it never existed.

“Yes, I have at least like, two more places to visit.” He blinked, surprised, “So we have to-“ He claimed soft lips, “Relax, Ajax. There is time.” He caresses his mate’s cheek, letting his beloved pull his sleeve down to press his nose on his wrist, seeing him relax from the smell of his scent.

“Fine. But we have to go now.” He claims soft lips once again, a parting kiss, “Hold on to me, Ajax,” His mate nods, wrapping his arms around his neck as he teleports the both of them to Mount Aocang. The waters are still, the birds chirp, singing and replying to one another on a sweet, beautiful chorus, the wind whistles as it passes by their ear, the grass crunches beneath their feet with each step they take, the sun gentle on high noon. Seldom, but not peculiar, simply nature’s blessings.

The sight is as he remembered, calming, a bit nostalgic when he sees the stone table under the tree. Both pain and joy ignite in his heart, how he long to sit at that table with his old friends, chattering, eating, drinking without a worry in the world, “What are you dallying for?” He turned to his companion, seeing Ajax holding his boots in one hand, his pants rolled up just below his knees, “What are you doing?” He instead replied with a question, “Crossing this pond, what else?” He blinked, never did he think his beloved would bring him to the place that is filled with so many memories.

Nonetheless, he obliged, even if he could cross with just a blink of an eye, he did not do so, choosing to pull off his shoes, rolling his pants and intertwining his hand with his beloved, crossing the small pond. The leaves rustle as the wind blows, bringing with it the scent of the sun. His thumb grazed the old stone table, still sturdy even after centuries since it was last used.
“One sees that you have arrived.” The new yet familiar voice made him look away from the carving of his name to see turquoise eyes, “Xianyun, apologies for not informing you of our arrival.” She waves her hand, sitting on her seat, “No apologies needed. Your mate has informed one already.” He blinked, surprised, looking to Ajax who had a pompous smile on his lips, nodding at her words.

“You planned this, Ajax?” His beloved nod, “Did you think I picked Mount Aocang from random? I planned it of course.” He can’t help the amused chuckle leaving his lips, “Whatever for?” Of course he is delighted, nonetheless, it is rare for Ajax to be the one making plans for the two of them, “For lunch.” A familiar yet new voice made him turn to meet Xiao, of all people.
“It seems we have been beaten by the Conqueror of Demons.” Another familiar voice made him look to its source where Moon Carver and Mountain Shaper stood beside Xiao, “I hope I wasn’t too late.” Ganyu transformed out of her qilin form, holding what seemed to be a basket, “Not at all. Come, Ganyu, I need the ingredients.” Xianyun gestures to her student, standing just beside the supreme cuisine machine.

Such a large gathering of his adepti made him turn to Ajax, “Were you the mastermind?” His beloved nods, guiding him to sit on the stool that was carved with his name, “Yep, I heard from the traveller how you guys didn’t meet last lantern rite, so I gathered you all. Honestly, with how old you are you should be more truthful to each other.” His beloved huffed, he merely sighed through his nose at the obvious jab to his age.

“Anyways, you sit here, I’m going to help prepare the food.” Ajax left before he could put a single word in. Left by himself, his mind wanders, it brings him back to the older days, when he would also sit in the same spot, enjoying a sweet wine and unforgettable company. His nose catches a familiar scent, a dull thud of a ceramic on the stone table takes his attention away from the calm waters to a familiar cup, housing a liquid he knows all too well.

“Your favourite, Lord Morax.” He turned to Moon Carver who sat beside him, “Thank you.” He picked up the small ceramic cup, sipping the familiar liquid, letting the sweet wine burn down its way through his throat, “How does it taste, my lord?” Xiao stood a few meters away from the table, “The same as I remembered. Come, Xiao.” He gestures at the empty seat beside him, “Sit beside me.” The yaksha was hesitant, afraid his karmic debt would affect him, “Very well.” Eventually finding his way beside him, albeit the distance between them was still visible. Nonetheless, it is better than having him stand far away, “And please, no need for the formalities, I am merely Zhongli now.” He reminds the yaksha, along with Moon Carver and Mountain Shaper, “I suppose you are right. Nonetheless, addressing you without your rightful title sounds abnormal.” He chuckles at Moon Carver’s comment, “You will have to get used to it.” Rex Lapis and Morax are no more after all, he has long discarded that façade for a more…ordinary title.

“How are you these days? I presume well?” He mulls the question for a moment before nodding, “Yes. All is well for me, what about all of you?” They share a look, Mountain Shaper shrugged, “As usual. Nothing much changed. We are still residing in Minlin. Xianyun on the other hand…” He follows his gaze to the lady of the mountain, “She bought a house in the harbour.” He choked on his wine at the surprising news, “Really? Xianyun?” It sounds hard to believe out of the three of them, he had visualized Moon Carver moving into the harbour, not Xianyun, she is the last person he thought would leave behind her solitary way of living.

“Yes. We know not of her goals in purchasing the said house. I wager it has something to do with Ganyu or Shenhe, that bird worries too much for her grown-up students.” Moon Carver sighed, shaking his head in his exasperation, “Save your words for yourself, you old fossil.” Xianyun while busy, chastised her friend. He can’t help the chuckle leaving his lips, the once quiet place is lively once more.

He feels a gaze on him, turning to meet golden eyes observing him quietly, “What is the matter, Xiao?” The yaksha jolted as if he was surprised at the call of his own name, “Oh, it is nothing, Lord- er, Zhongli.” He can tell there is something he is hiding, but decides to not pursue it, “How are you doing, Xiao? It has been a while since I last saw you. I hope your karmic debt is not bothering you as much these days.” Xiao mulls his question, longer than how one would to a simple question of their wellbeing.

“I am good, I suppose.” His statement felt more like a question, “I see.” He doesn’t mention it if the yaksha has a certain flush on his cheeks, it seems there is interesting news to be heard, but perhaps not from the shy adeptus beside him. As the conversation came to a standstill, his eyes shifted to the group preparing a hearty meal. A smile has already made its way onto his lips when he sees Ajax conversing with Xianyun and Ganyu as they work. Laughter slips out from his mate’s lips while Xianyun’s gaze does not show she is impressed in the slightest. A heartwarming view, he is very lucky to have the chance to see it.

“You seem happy, Zhongli.” He turned to his right, seeing Xiao who had been observing him all this time, “I am.” He confesses, his line of sight returning to his wife, a sight to behold, “I thought you would miss Liyue.” He hums, nodding to his yaksha’s guess, “I do. But I know I would miss Ajax more if I were to stay here and await his return.” Even the thought of leaving his wife made a part of him thrash, unhappy at the mere suggestion.

“I see.” He glanced to his right where he saw a small thin undetected smile on his lips, “That is good to hear.” His heart is warm, to see the soft gaze on his yaksha’s face, a sight he rather sees than one where he is suffering. He hears the unspoken worry in Xiao’s heart, how he is worried he would be unhappy with his mate.

But truly, it is the opposite, every second of his life spent has been colourful, beautiful, vibrant, exciting with his beloved by his side. His small selfish desire that would never be fulfilled was all but forgotten, because had he the chance to pick anyone else other than Ajax as his mate, he wouldn’t have taken it. How could he? When all his happiness stems from the man? He would rather travel to the abyss than be separated from his beloved.

With the help of the supreme cuisine machine, their lunch finished in little to no time. A variety of dishes is spread out on the small stone table, more seats were brought out by Xianyun courtesy of the number of guests unmatching the number of seats.
Once everyone is settled, they dig into the food. He purposefully avoids the seafood dishes, eating the ones he knows he enjoys, “Here, I know you don’t like anything seafood-related, but at least you have to try this.” A piece of fish is on top of his bowl of rice, he glances at Ajax who has an expectant gaze, and so does the whole table who is staring at him.

He knows why they do; he never touches a seafood dish whenever he dines with them. But ever since he is married, he has learned more than once to concede on some things, the power of puppy eyes is one that is too strong to take lightly. He smiles, picking up the fish, “Alright, qin ai.” Eating the small fish, tasting the fresh meat, even if the smell of salt and the inherent fish smell can never truly be erased no matter how fresh the fish is.

“How is it? I caught it just this morning.” He nodded, amused at the fact that his wife had been up much earlier than he thought, “It is fresh and delicious. The meat is tender, and the inherent fish taste is almost reduced to nothing. Well done, love.” He pats Ajax’s head, his heart skipping a beat at the soft smile on his beloved’s lips, “Truly, you are a force to be reckoned with, Childe.” Xianyun has an amused gaze in her eyes, “Nobody was able to feed Lord Morax any seafood dish. No matter how much he is coerced or bribed. Yet you succeeded with a single urge.” His mate puffed out his chest, “Of course, I’m his wife. I can do things no one can.” Proud of that fact.

Their lunch was no short of the word lively, they conversed and ate. Xianyun shares how her life is going, Ganyu says that little to nothing changed in the Qixing and inherently, Liyue as a nation. She still thrives, now with the addition of a trade route opening from the harbour to Inazuma courtesy of the abolishment of the vision hunt decree. The food was made with excellent high-quality ingredients, as expected of Xianyun who is well versed in the art of culinary.

But as beginnings have a start, there is also an ending, “We will take our leave now. Please do visit Liyue more often, Zhongli.” He nods, a bit sad they are already leaving so soon. Thankfully, lantern rite is around the corner, he can see them again soon, “You will have to take it up to my wife.” Their itinerary is strictly resting on Ajax’s shoulder, “We’ll visit for lantern rite, promise.” The glint in ocean-blue eyes shows that his wife is being genuine.

“I will also take my leave now, my work awaits in my office.” Ganyu, ever the workaholic it seems, also chooses to take her leave, “Of course, you always forget about your dear old Master.” Xianyun, the master of dramatic expressions sighs with all her melancholic feelings. And her student never fails to fall into her trap, “I…I promise I will visit soon again, with Shenhe, Master.” The crocodile tears stop, and the crane brightens up, “It is a promise then.” Successfully capturing the qilin in her trap.

They all departed except for the lady of the mountain, “While one certainly does not mind your visit, One believes your mate has other things planned.” Ajax nods, confirming her guess, “Yep, we’re going to Windrise next.” He blinked, chuckling the next, “Admit it, baobei, you are picking places at random.” His wife huffed, “Am not. Don’t you know the breeze is nice in Windrise at this time? Let’s go, no time to waste now.” His beloved tugged at him to stand up from his seat.

“You should come to the harbour when lantern rite happens, Xianyun, we’ll definitely be there.” She huffed, “That name is only reserved to some people, you are not part of that group.” Ajax merely rolls his eyes, “Whatever you say, Xianyun, we’ll be taking our leave now, bye!” Yet his beloved ignored her warning. But a mere short glance at her shows a small thin smile on her lips, she doesn’t mind it.

“Until lantern rite, Xianyun.” She nods, “Until lantern rite, safe travels you two.” Wishing them her well wishes before he teleports them to Windrise, their next destination. The wind blows stronger as compared to Liyue, the grass crunchy under their feet, the aster wheels spin energetically, yet it is just the right intensity to cool them down.

“The air is so nice.” Ajax let his hand go, extending his arms out, sighing in delight at the breeze passing them by, “Oooh the grass is also nice.” He chuckles at the childish antics of his beloved, laying on the grass, rolling on it, like a cat.

“I am glad you are enjoying yourself.” He sat beside his lover, dusting away the leaves hiding behind sunset locks, Ajax turned to lay on his stomach, his cheek on his palm, “What about you?” Ocean-blue eyes expectantly gaze at him, “Did you enjoy the lunch?” He is worried he didn’t. A mischievous thought flashed through his mind. He faked a pensive expression, closing his eyes and humming in thought.

He can feel Ajax holding his breath, see an expectant pair of ocean-blue eyes with his closed eyes, simply adorable, he can’t bear to tease his mate more, “Of course I do, Ajax.” Caressing the man’s cheek, feeling him sigh in relief, “Although I have yet to receive my dessert.” The grass under his palm rustles as he leans to his beloved.

Ocean-blue eyes glint, a smile on the man’s lips as he feels a hand on his nape, pulling him closer, deeper, “Would you like it now then?” He does not reply, simply showing it with the press of his lips, “Yes please.” Ajax smiles, easily opening his mouth, a cue for him to close their distance. He tastes the sweet and sour sauce they had earlier, “You taste sweet,” Their lips smack when he goes in for another kiss, “And sour.” His beloved sheepishly laughs, “Probably because I ate a lot of the squirrel fish. It tastes nice and crispy.” He hums, “Is that so?” Obeying the hand pulling at him closer, “Yes. You should try it more.” A suggestive glint in ocean-blue eyes.

“Gladly.” He remembers the taste of Ajax’s lips, eager to sample a most delicious cuisine. Alas, “Hey hey hey! No kissing under the tree!” A familiar high-pitched voice made the both of them pause, he clicked his tongue, they were so close to having one another again, “Must you ruin the fun for us, Barbatos?” Glaring at the bard who didn’t even flinch.

“You got some serious nerve to be kissing right behind the anemo archon statue!” He holds the urge to roll his eyes, sitting properly beside his beloved, “Party pooper.” Ajax pout, crossing his arms, “Hey, you don’t get to say that, mister.” The both of them have a small glaring contest, but he could easily say all they are scaring are a couple of finches.

“The both of you are getting sidetracked.” He turned to the newcomer, “Raiden Shogun?” She raised a hand, shaking her head, “Ei. The Raiden Shogun is practicing her polearm skills in the plane of euthymia.” She does look a bit more relaxed as compared to the stiff and stern Raiden Shogun, the opposite of the same coin.

“Why the sudden visit?” Ei does not answer him, simply walking towards the two of them, taking a seat beside him, “Reliving old memories.” Old memories? What is she implying? “Right, old memories.” A glance towards the bard made him remember an old memory, “I got the good stuff here.” He shook the dandelion wine in his hand, producing four glasses in his other hand.
They all sat on the grass as Venti popped open the cork of the bottle and poured each of them an equal portion, except for himself, he filled the bottle to the brim with dandelion wine, “You are as insufferable as ever.” He sighs, catching a whiff of the excellent wine. The grape is fermented to perfection and the dandelions used to steep in the wine adds a familiar flavour, it smells wonderful, “And you are as stuck up as usual, blockhead.” That hit a nerve, “Drunkard.” Venti scoffed, “Buffoon.” The mere audacity this disgrace of art has to diss-

“Enough, both of you, like children.” Ei huffed, glaring at them both, a silent reprimanding. Ajax snorted from beside him, finding their little squabble interesting apparently, “And Childe,” She extended a hand out to his wife, “The goods, as you promised.” Clarity colours his beloved’s eyes, “Right, I got it here.” Their ominous way of talking made him suspicious. Could it be that his beloved is smuggling contraband?

How far he was in his guess as Ajax pulled out “As promised, a box of authentic Snezhnayan sweets, here,” A box of kulich is handed over to her, “And also,” Another container with pirog is handed to her awaiting hands, “A bonus, since you were so cooperative when handing over your gnosis.” Her aubergine eyes sparkle like a million diamonds, “Oh you, that was all Miko’s doing. Perhaps I should delegate more things to her…” She wasted no time in sampling the sweets, her eyes lit up with each bite of the sweets.

It didn’t take much for him to piece two and two. Ei was bought over to visit because of the sweets, Venti is a drunkard who resides in Windrise, “Were you also the mastermind behind this meeting?” Ajax vaguely hums, “I just collected the cast, they came here of their own volition. Of course the wine and the sweets were part of the item to sweeten the deal, but even without them, I bet they still come.” Venti surprisingly nodded, Ei hummed, “Yes, I suppose.” She didn’t meet his eyes, but he could see a pink flush on her cheeks, prideful, but not without her care.

“Eh, maybe.” Venti is the same, looking to the sky, neglecting his wine, a rare sight, “What is the occasion?” Ajax shrugged, “Nothing. Just that I heard you guys haven’t met in a very very long time. And since we have some free time, here we are.” He gestures to the green plains, “Although we didn’t end up holding the gathering in Liyue like the one you were used to, sorry about that.” He shook his head, pulling the man close to kiss his cheek, “No apologies needed, baobei. You already did so much for me.” He is touched, “The Shogun will return with several rotten teeth if the both of you keep up the sappy sweet act.” He chuckles at Ei’s joke, “Even the wine tastes a bit too sweet on my tongue, bleurgh.” He huffed, rolling his eyes at the exasperated joke.

Despite his and Venti’s occasional bickering, he can’t help but miss this. A wine in hand, his old companions with him as they conversed without a care in the world, it brought him back to the days when the original Archons gathered, drinking, talking, joking around, a period of time he can never go back to. But even if he misses those days, he will never ask for them back. Just as humans can never go back to their past, he won’t do the same. He will continue to stride into the future, hand in hand with his beloved.

When they decide to depart, the rich sunset glow has painted the green plains a deep orange. Saying he won’t miss them is like saying Snezhnaya has no snow, no matter how insufferable Venti is, he remains one of the oldest friends he has, “Where are you heading next?” The bard switched from him to Ajax, “Back to the harbour. Why?” He shrugged, “No reason. I’ll head to the angel’s share, as usual.” Ei huffed, shaking her head, “And I will return to Inazuma. It is nigh time I relieve the Shogun from her training.” They part ways and his eyes cannot help but linger on where they once sat, the heavy feeling of farewell never gets lighter.
“It’s okay, Zhongli.” Arms pull him close into an embrace, “You’ll meet them again.” A hand caressing his head, Ajax’s touch is gentle, caring, soft, an unspoken comfort resides in his action, “You know me well, love.” He returns the embrace, pressing his nose on a gland emanating a sweet familiar scent.

They stayed in each other’s embrace for a while, simply enjoying the serenity, basking in nature’s grace, revelling in one another’s scent, “Let’s go to the harbour.” He nods, letting his beloved go in favour of teleporting them just a few walks away from the entrance of the harbour so as to not startle the guards standing by the gates.

They arrived just in time for the day merchants to go home and the night market to bustle alive. They pass by third round knockout where a familiar figure stands, “Ladies and gentlemen, we last left off on the tale of the guardian yakshas, today, we will talk about the millileths on the chasm, fighting bravely not knowing day or night. Stay tuned for all will be revealed tonight!” Iron Tongue Tian’s opening piqued his interest. Tales of the adepti he has repeatedly heard, what with his penchant to repeat the same tale of the same adepti, but this…is certainly a new one. Tales of the humans, it is a good change of pace. While his tales are exaggerated, they do hold some water and his technique never fails to make him stay and hear until the end.

“You want to stay and hear?” He turned to his beloved, “If you do not have any other plans.” Ajax shrugged, neither saying yes or no, “We can go and hear him.” A hand interlaced itself with him, guiding him to an empty chair as they listened to Iron Tongue Tian’s story.

The pacing is good, and so far, he does not sugarcoat what is the truth, it is as if hearing a recounting of a historical event read by an expert. He prefers the original, there is beauty in their hardships, it shows just how fragile humans are, yet resilient in their nature. Intriguing, it made him even more eager to stay.

Alas, “I have to go and settle some business, Zhongli.” Ajax has to go, which means he too has to go, “It’s okay, you can stay here. I won’t be long. Not going anywhere dangerous either. You just enjoy the story, solontse.” He wanted to argue with his beloved, knowing he rather pick to accompany his mate than a retelling of a historical event he was there himself to witness.

“But-“ Boldly, Ajax cut his sentence with a kiss, turning several pairs of eyes to them, instead of the excellent storyteller, “I’ll be quick, Zhongli. You won’t even know I left.” He sighed, there is no winning this argument if his rival is his wife, is there? “Very well. But please be careful, call my name if you are in danger.” His beloved nod, “I will, laogong.” With a fleeting kiss, the man left like the night breeze, soft, scarcely there.

But he trusts Ajax more than anyone in this world. Thus, he chooses to focus back on the story Iron Tongue Tian is telling while keeping his ears to the ground should he hear even the slightest call of his name from his beloved. Instead of a call to his name, he heard the scrap of wood to stone instead, he glanced to the source of the noise, seeing a familiar pair.

Lumine smiles at him, Paimon waves, he replies with a nod, focusing back to the story on its climax, “And with the relentless pursuit, the millileth vanquished the forces from beyond, as Liyue stood tall in her victory. This, is the grim and heroic origin of the millileth’s motto; “While the Millileth stands guard, evil shall never prevail.” The proof is the fact that we all still stand to this day. This is the end of their story, but it shall never be the end of their good deeds.” A series of claps resounded from the neighbouring tables. He joined in, the story today is truly one that is befitting of the word; engaging.

As chatter bloomed amongst the neighbouring tables, he turned to his unexpected guest, “Traveler, Paimon, it has been a while.” The both of them share a look before smiling, “Yep, how’ve you been? Last I saw you were pale like a qingxin.” He chuckles at the traveller’s analogy, “I am doing well. You know it was because of my worry for my wife.” She shrugged, “I know. But it was pretty amusing to see you break your stone rigid expression.” Paimon giggles at her joke, “Paimon agrees. You were white as a sheet!” He could only chuckle wryly at their teasing.

“What brings you here to Liyue?” The lantern rite is still a few months from now, so their visit was a bit early in his opinion, “Because Paimon wants to eat some almond tofu. And chef Yanxiao makes the best almond tofu!” He could see from her sparkling eyes how much she loved that particular dessert, “I see. Will you be heading out tomorrow then?” Lumine merely glanced at her companion, “Yep! Paimon wants to see the stars tonight. There’s loads of stars today, wanna join us?” He would love to, if it weren’t for the fact that he is waiting for his beloved.

“I am afraid I have to pass on that favour, I am waiting for Childe.” Perhaps when the man has returned, they can go together to see the stars, “Oh, we met with him a while ago actually.” He shifted his gaze back to Paimon at her remark, “He says that he’s taking care of some business on the top of Mount Tianheng and it will take a while before he gets it done, so you’re free to go back to your lodgings.” Anxiety settles in the back of his mind.

While he does trust Ajax, he can be worried for his safety too, can’t he? “I see. I will head to the top of Mount Tianheng to check up on him then.” Wood scraped to stone as he stood up, “We can go together then. It’s honestly a perfect spot to see the stars, high up and no monsters to disturb us.” Paimon spoke what is mostly the truth, “Let us depart at once.” They left the harbour in favour of the mountain behind it. Thanks to the traveller’s adept climbing skills, they arrived in little to no time.

“Wow! The sky is really beautiful!” Millions of stars decorate the obsidian sky, neatly twinkling in the turquoise milky way, Paimon is right, the stars are very beautiful tonight. He almost got sidetracked by the beauty of the night sky, forgetting the prior reason he climbed the mountain was to find his wife.

He looked throughout the green plains, tapping into their mutual claim to try and discern if his beloved was nearby. Although it seems he is nowhere to be found, “Still searching?” He turned to meet Lumine’s eyes, “Yes. I do not feel he is here though.” He could smell the lingering scent of ocean breeze and crisp snow, but it was not as strong if the man was close.

“You’re such a worrywart, Zhongli.” Paimon waved her finger, clicking her tongue in her disapproval, “Childe’s coming here, don’t worry so much, he’s just taking-“ A chicken and mushroom skewer is stuffed into her mouth, stopping her line of sentence, “Taking the prove of payment back to the northland bank. I heard he had to personally head there since the client was pretty stubborn.” Something about the way she shut her companion’s mouth made suspicion grow in his heart.

“Is..that so?” But he knew she wouldn’t cover up something important from him, so he let it slide to the back of his mind, “Why don’t we sit over there? The view is great from the ledge.” Her words spoke the truth, the view is amazing. Atop the milky way decorating the sky, the glow of the canary lights below in the harbour creates a beautiful contrast that works together, creating a wonderful balance and a breathtaking view.

“You both on vacation?” He hummed at the question, “Yes, after the last time we failed to go on one, we decided to try again, although the destination is solely Childe’s idea.” He has no idea why the sudden trip to Liyue, instead of anywhere else. He thought his beloved was keener on going to Natlan, a place he had yet to visit, instead of Liyue, a place he had stayed in for a year and a half.

“Well, Paimon hope you two enjoy the downtime, for real this time.” He chuckles, agreeing with her words, “Hopefully it is a real vacation.” Their minimal conversation died down as they gazed at the beautiful sky, mesmerizing them to silence, taking all their focus away. Alas, no matter the beauty nature offered, he can’t help but feel a bit…restless, worrying for his beloved.

Is he on his way here? Is he still in the bank? Or perhaps he is still on his job? He can’t help but worry, “Oh! Oh my Archons!” Paimon’s sudden exclamation made him jolt, stopping his train of thoughts to look in her direction where it seemed as if she was panicking, tugging at the traveller’s arm to pull her from her sitting position, “You haven’t claimed your extra rewards from the guild have you?!” Lumine paled, slowly nodding, “Hurry! Or we won’t be able to get one today!” She nods, yet still has the time to glance at him.

“Go, Lumine. No need to worry for me. May we meet again in lantern rite.” She nods, “Bye, and enjoy your vacation, Zhongli!” He can’t help the chuckle leaving his lips, where there are rewards, there the duo will be. He turns to shift his gaze back to the night sky, enjoying the view, yet mulling whether he should leave to find his beloved or stay and wait for him.

As the minutes ticked by, he couldn’t help but grow more restless. In the end, he decided to stand up to find his beloved, “Hello, handsome.” But a familiar voice greeting him made him stop. He turned to hitch his breath, freezing in his spot when he saw the familiar face clad in a different attire. His once usual grey uniform is nowhere to be found. Instead, a beautiful hanfu cascades over his figure, rich brown like the ground paired with gold embezzlements as if it was melted and weaved into the flowy fabric.

His eyes are adorned with red eyeliner, matching his, his lips glossy, the colour a soft pink, just like the faint flush on his cheeks.
“Ajax.” He could only utter a single word, all anxiety is forgotten when he saw just how beautiful his beloved is, “Miss me, laogong?” Ajax stepped closer, tilting his head, peering up at him, “I…yes.” He nods, his ability for speech impeded by his speechlessness, his brain still processing just how breathtaking his beloved is.

Clad in his colours, wearing his culture’s clothes. It is as if he is treated to the most lavish banquet known to mankind. He cannot ask for more, “I brought some food with me.” The rustle of plastic echoes through his ears but he cannot be bothered to shift his gaze to it, still eager to engrave this beautiful scenery in his memory.

“Come, let’s eat. I’m sure you’re starving, well, I’m starving too.” He nods, agreeing to whatever his beloved says, sitting back down, as a container of food is offered to him, “I cooked some stir-fried noodles and some full moon eggs along with lotus flower crisps.” He hums, registering they are food but forgetting what they are after his beloved says it.

“Well, dig in.” He repeats his reply, still staring at Ajax, only snapping out from his trance when a hand covers his eyes, “S-Stop staring at me already. I know I look weird but I can’t change now.” He took his mate’s hand, kissing his palms, “None of it, Ajax. I am staring because you look so beautiful.” Smiling at the red flush emerging from his cheeks, “Cheesy. We should eat now.” He agrees, eating their ordinary dinner, yet he can’t help but feel it is most definitely a fulfilling meal, paired with a twinkly milky and the company of his beautiful wife made it a most satisfying dinner.

Once they finished their food, Ajax scooted closer to him, leaning on his shoulder. He loops his arms around his beloved’s figure, curling his hand around the man’s waist, their eyes trained on the night sky, “Was the story good?” He hummed, “It was. I must say he outdid himself. Tian is famous for exaggerating his stories, but not the one tonight, which makes the story engaging, thrilling, beautiful in all the struggles they show.” He pries his eyes away from the sky to meet ocean-blue eyes that have been staring at him.

“I’m glad you enjoyed yourself.” He grazed his thumb over his beloved’s cheek, “What about you, love?” Ajax nods without a pause, “I do too. But today was all about you.” Arms wrap around his neck, a tender kiss connects them as one, “Happy birthday, Zhongli.” He blinked, forgetting the date, “Is that why we went through all those places today?” His mate nods, “Yes. I went ahead to plan a lunch with the adepti since I know you used to dine with them back then.” He does remember he shared that with his wife, although they stopped that gathering ever since Guizhong’s passing.

“Same with the wine, I know the original seven used to gather in Liyue to drink, right?” He chuckles, nodding to his beloved’s question, amused and touched at the fact Ajax remembers all the little things, “The adepti and your fellow Archon friends also gave you presents, but I made them write their wishes to you instead of saying it themselves for the surprise tonight.” Ah, they didn’t need to. But he is touched by their actions.

“I see. I do appreciate all you have done for me today, Ajax. Thank you. It is a birthday I will remember for millenniums to come.” Ajax merely chuckles at his words, “There’s more, you know.” He blinked, “More? I thought you dressing up in my colours and my culture was the surprise.” His beloved hum, nodding slowly, “Yes, it is, I guess. But that’s not all.” He peers up at his mate when he moves closer, guiding his thigh to wrap itself around his hips, embracing his wife who sat on his lap.
“I haven’t given you my present.” With all the man has done for him, he is surprised. The trip, the companions, the hanfu, and perhaps even Iron Tongue Tian’s stories had been planned by him. The memories they made today were more than enough as a gift. What more could Ajax have in plan for him?

His mate rummaged in his sleeves, pulling out a new yet familiar trinket. The bright red jade was akin to a pale pink under the cool lighting of the moon, but he could still make out the shape of the rabbit. It is the talisman he bought the day before. What is it doing here? And why did Ajax bring it out? He cannot piece together the reason his beloved brought it out, just what is the reason- “Dear Rex Lapis, please grant us a child.” All blind guessing stops as he widens his eyes, “Please let me conceive, so I can give a little baby to our small family.” His wife giggles, caressing his cheek, pulling him close for another kiss.

“Grant me this wish of ours, o great Geo Archon.” He replies to the chaste kiss, turning it into a heated one, eager to convey his joy through his actions because he knows no words can describe the feelings spilling from his heart. Nonetheless, a thought flashed through his mind, “But… your duties, Ajax.” He brought up that worry to his beloved who shook his head.

“I asked Her Highness already. And she let me.” He does not hide his shock as his lips fall slack, “I want a child too.” Hands hold his cheeks, “So let’s have one. What do you say, Rex Lapis?” He chuckles, nodding, never wanting anything else, “Of course, Ajax.” He claims his beloved’s lips, letting a hand roam down, his surprise shown when Ajax boldly strokes him.

“Now?” His wife nods, “Of course, the sky looks amazing tonight, doesn’t it?” He glanced at the sky behind him, the milky way twinkling in its magnificence, “There’s no one here. Just you and me, Zhongli.” And that is also true, Mount Tianheng rarely gets any visitors, and anyone who watches the fireworks prefers to do so in the confines of their house.

“Also,” Ajax came closer, his warm breath tickling his ear, “I’m not wearing any underwear.” That intimate fact made him raise his eyebrow at his wife who nodded, “You can check for yourself. Prepare me while you’re at it too.” His wife is indeed telling the truth, below the layers of his hanfu, he feels the soft skin of his wife’s pussy, unclothed. And while Ajax is telling the truth about having little to no visitors on the mountain, he can’t help but worry if someone does come, but…

“I won’t force you, we can go to our lodgings, or your abode.” Lips kisses him softly, “I want you to be comfortable.” A sweet smile etched itself on his wife’s lips, “Then what if I said I want you here and now?” The sweet smile grew wider, “Then I am all yours, laogong.” Ajax leaned to him, “Let’s make a baby.” His heart leaped at the suggestion, eager to fulfil his- no, their, long-time dream.

The night breeze soothes their heated skin, their lips locked against one another silences any sound leaving from their throat, “I’m putting it in.” He peers up at his beloved, nodding as he shivers at the familiar squeeze that hugs his length.
They share a soft moan when Ajax completely descends on him, “Now that I think about it, it’s been a while since we did this.” He agrees with his wife, his hand caressing his supple thigh, the other fondling his beloved’s behind, “And you still like to grope my ass.” His lover breathlessly laughed, slowly rolling his hips.

“Of course, you are my wife. Who’s behind will I grope if it is not yours?” The pink flush changed to a deep crimson, “You always love to tease me.” He merely raised an eyebrow at his wife, “Is that so? Why do I smell that you are delighted I do grope you?” His scent grew hints of peaches, a telltale sign that shows his beloved is pleased, “Because we’re making a baby.” His face lights up, “How can I not?” His heart skipped a beat, in all the times he is Ajax’s husband, he has only seen his face so radiant on the day of their wedding. He thought his wife could never look even more ethereal than that destined day. But the face glowing with his mate’s joy proves him wrong.

“Here I thought I was the only one that desired a child.” A shiver ran down his spine when Ajax slowly yet firmly moved his hips, riding him expertly, squeezing in all the spots he knew would wake his arousal more.

“Of course not. I want one with you even before we’re engaged.” Ajax knows him like the back of his hand, pressing his buttons easily, nibbling on his scent gland, over the mark he has that shows he is no one’s alpha but his wife, claiming his lips, tugging his hair out of the neat ponytail.

Their hips push and pull feverishly, chasing after the lingering pleasure that slowly rocks their bodies, igniting their arousal, their lips messily slot against one another, wetly sharing a kiss, “Is that so? Since when did you want this?” He asks breathlessly, thrusting up to meet his wife’s hips, seeing him gasp and roll his eyes close, his lips part to let out a wanton moan, music to his ears.

“Since the day we became lovers.” His eyes widened, he could not believe his ears, “That is two years now.” Ajax laughed breathlessly, picking up the slack with his hips when he was too stunned to continue his movements, “Yes. But at the time, I still have so many things to do. That wasn’t the right time, but now…” Hands cradle his cheeks, “We can. More than allowed to have a child, Zhongli.” A mewl left his lips when his fingers pressed at an erect nub in between tender folds.

Their movements grew inconsistent, their climax imminent, visible from their jagged breaths, the uncontrollable moans, the way walls squeezed around him, and the way his knot had almost fully settled. Movement became scarce as their climax drew nearer and nearer.

“No...don’t…” Ajax thrashes weakly when he urges his wife to his climax from fondling the erect nub, “Together…” The sweet request uttered breathlessly, yet the conviction burning in ocean-blue eyes shows his beloved’s genuine request, “Then allow me, Ajax…” Gently, he lays his mate upon the fields, hearing the grass rustle each time he pulls out and thrusts in.

A shiver ran down his spine, he held his breath as he drove home to his beloved at the same time he gave attention to the sweet spot in between the tender folds. He groans and shivers as he pumps his seed into the welcoming heat. A look at his mate tells him that Ajax is also blissed out, his eyes closed, his face glistens with a dewy glow from their heated activity.

He slowly reversed their positions, letting Ajax lay on him, knowing his knot would prevent them from moving for a good while. A myriad of colours explodes in the sky, fireworks boom and crackle, adding many different colours to the milky way, “Ah, it is the new year’s.” His beloved turned to see the wonderful view, “Happy new year, Zhongli.” Lips press against his in a sweet kiss, “Happy new year, Ajax.” The boom and crackle fill the serenity as their lips move as one, welcoming the new year with a bang.

He caresses Ajax’s head, enjoying the view of the fireworks. But a soft hearty laughter from his wife made him gaze at his beloved, “What is so funny?” The man shook his head, “I dreamt of this. Your knot I mean. And now that I do have it, I never knew it’s so…warm.” He blinked, “You never felt a knot before?” Ajax shook his head, “Nope.” The answer that was the opposite of his guess made him surprise.

He knew Ajax’s bed history did not entail only him, so he thought the man had experienced a knot, “Why is that?” His wife turned to meet his eyes, a sweet smile on his lips, “Because I decided I want no one’s knot but yours.” His heart skipped a beat, touched at the reason behind his wife’s marvel.

“I knew the moment we became lovers that I wanted to be yours.” Hands cradle his cheeks, “And I want you as no one else’s but mine.” His heart aches at the endearment spilling from ocean-blue eyes, “Even as you knew I fooled you?” Ajax nods without a pause, “Even with. I know I can never find someone else like you if I let you go.” His heart nearly bursts at the overwhelming feelings he has.

“I love you, Zhongli.” He replies with a chaste kiss, letting their lips move slowly to a rhythmless music only they know, “I love you as well, Ajax.” By now, he knows his knot has deflated and Ajax has quite likely received his seed. But…

“May I make love to you again, Ajax?” Red colour Ajax’s cheeks, “As much as you want to, laogong.” He smiles at his wife’s reply, teleporting them into his abode in the blink of an eye, “On a bed this time, I wager your back will not thank you the next day if I go through with my plans.” His wife blushes at the implication he utters.

“So now that we’re in a bed, you will make love to me until morning?” He nods, “Until I am sure you have conceived.” The red flush miraculously turns a shade deeper, “Then please do so, my beloved alpha.” He pulls out only to thrust in, hearing a hitch of his wife’s breath, “As you command, my dearest omega.” He is a man of his word.

Even in the olden times, he always keeps his promises, no matter how insane the stakes are, he always strives to fulfil it. And now that he knows their desire is mutual, his determination increased, eager to make their dreams of a little child, running around with their features, a wish come true.

Dear Morax,

How are the two of you faring? I hope you are doing well. Rest assured this is not a letter to call Ajax to his duties. Rather, this letter is intended for you. I heard from your wife the two of you are set on course for Liyue due to the fact a year has been added to your age. Happy birthday, and happy new year. Attached to this letter is your present along with a small token of gratitude for aiding me in my cause, no matter if you are doing so because your wife is my vanguard, or the matter of your cooperation during the gnosis handover. I hope it will be of use to you. Please take good care of yourselves, along with the little one in your wife’s belly.

Sincerely, Tsaritsa.

He thumbs over the paper in his hand, reading over the amount of mora written in it. It is triple the amount of Ajax’s yearly salary, compressed into one single check under his name he can redeem in the Northland Bank. But he knew their management system would be scrambling to the edges of Teyvat to try and collect this amount of money all in one go. Ajax is already paid handsomely each month, so he can only imagine how many banks must unite to give him this much mora. Perhaps the check alone might even create an economic crisis.

Nonetheless, he kept it in his drawer should the need arise, although he doubted he would need that many amount of mora so soon. The sheets rustling caught his attention, he flipped the letter back to its envelope to check in with his beloved. He turned just in time to see ocean-blue eyes blink open, “Good morning, my love.” Ajax smiles, sitting up to scoot closer to him, “Morning. You’re up early.” He chuckles at the omega pressed close to his gland.

“You just slept in too late, Ajax. It is nearing lunchtime.” Ajax merely huffed, “Let me be, I don’t have to wake up early for once.” He chuckles, letting his wife climb into his lap, “Would you like to eat?” His beloved shook his head, “Scent me?” He nods, obliging, “Of course, Ajax.” His mate has grown a bit…clingy these past few days.

He would often wake up with the man snuggled close to him or would be requested to scent him. Ajax has always been clingy. But the level he is at now…is beyond the word clingy. Day and night he sticks to him like a scholar to their notes, he even follows him to the bathroom, staring at him while he does his business, like a cat who does not give a sense of privacy. Nonetheless, he doesn’t hate it. Far from it even, he adores how spoiled his wife is.

Another change he has seen is how his mate skipped meals. To no fail, every day he will skip a meal or two. He thought perhaps the man didn’t like his cooking but was too kind to say it to his face, so he tried takeout, but that resulted in an even worse state. Ajax merely ate one or two spoonsful before he called it quits, as compared to his cooking where the man would eat half his portion before saying he is full. Yet how can he be full if he skipped a meal before? It doesn’t add up.

“Ajax, my love, you have to eat something. You skipped dinner yesterday.” He worries for Ajax’s health, hoping this time his wife will not skip his meal. He can read his mate’s face even without his beloved saying his thoughts, he doesn’t plan to eat, again.

Seems like he is forced to play his hand on the last technique. He cups soft cheeks with his palms, “Please, baobei?” Asking meekly as he gazed into ocean-blue eyes, hoping his wife would surrender. To his relief, Ajax sighed, “Okay, I’ll eat. But I don’t want too much.” He eagerly nods, “I promise you do not need to eat too much. I will cook you a light meal.” Thanks to the supreme cuisine machine, he was able to make congee within five minutes, he ought to thank Xianyun for her amazing contraption.

Once he had plated everything, he turned to give it to Ajax who was sitting on the dining table, watching his every move, stubbornly following him.

“Tell me if you it lacks anything, Ajax.” He sat across from his wife, holding his breath as he saw him stare at his food with reluctance, yet he slowly ate the food. Sadly, he didn’t even make it past a spoon before the metal utensil clanged loudly into the ceramic bowl.

Ajax clasped a hand over his mouth, wood scraping to ceramic as his wife rushed to the bathroom. He quickly follows his beloved, worried for his wellbeing where he hears loud retching sounds. He tugs whatever hair he can out of his mate’s mouth, rubbing at his back to help let out what little food there is in his stomach. He grimaced when he saw stomach acid, a testament to just how little his food intake had been.

“Sorry…I suddenly get really nauseous.” He wipes away the bile from Ajax’s mouth, “No apologies needed, Ajax. Was it something in the congee perhaps?” He carries his beloved in his arms, guiding Ajax to his gland, hoping his scent could help ease the queasiness in his stomach, “I don’t think so…it tastes good.” Arms wrap around his neck, he tilts his head more, giving access to his clingy wife who finds his scent comforting.

Was it something in his food the day prior? That cannot be, he was eating a bun without any filling. It was mild and had no added salt or any heavy spices. Was it perhaps the smell of food? But what could-

He gasped, stopping in his tracks when the thought completely went past him, “What is it?” Ajax took notice, holding his cheeks in his hands, his eyes reflected his curiosity, “Did you forget something?” He slowly nods, “It has been at least a week since the last time we laid, Ajax.” His mate scrunched his nose, “No we didn’t, we slept yesterday.” He shook his head, “I meant sex, Ajax. It has been a week since then.” His heart races, his nerves make his hands clammy.

Ocean-blue eyes widen, a gasp from Ajax who looked to a random spot behind him, “You mean…” He nods, “But I cannot be sure. We should go to Bubu pharmacy.” His mate fervently nodded, agreeing to his suggestion as they hastily changed to a different outfit, “Hurry, Zhongli. You don’t need all that.” His wife rushed him out of their lodgings.

He can smell his excitement, lemons and passion fruit, a telltale sign that his beloved is ready to bolt to the pharmacy had it not been his hand holding his own, “No, Ajax. No running.” Sternly reprimanding his wife. If their guess is true…excessive shaking would only make the baggage of his nausea bigger.

“But-“ He shook his head, “No running.” Setting boundaries with his wife, shaking his head and denying his puppy eyes. Ajax sighed in defeat, knowing his best weapon failed, he simply frowned and tugged him from their connected hands, “Fine. Let’s go.” The walk to Bubu pharmacy was both long and short. His anxiety did not lessen when he registered his wife for a checkup.

In fact, it only made him even more nervous, “Relax, Mr. Zhongli, I’m not here to steal your wife. You can set aside your fangs for some other time.” A hand squeezing at his own snaps him out of his trance, “I apologize, doctor Baizhu, I did so unconsciously.” He is so lost in his thoughts he lets his alpha side take charge.

“It’s alright. It’s just common for alphas to be overprotective of their expecting omegas.” Wood clattered to wood when he sprung up from his seat so fast the chair fell over, “You mean…” Baizhu nods, standing up to write something on his clipping board.

“Master Childe is indeed expecting. You are a week into your pregnancy. Congratulations, Mr. Zhongli, Master Childe.” He lost the strength to his legs, collapsing to the floor at the amazing news while his wife was jumping up and down in his ecstasy, “You might not want to do that, otherwise-“ Changsheng cut off herself when Ajax rushed out from the room. He follows his beloved, easily finding him through the retching sounds.

He repeats his prior actions, holding back his wife’s hair, patting at his shoulder to help ease the nausea, “Ugh…I shouldn’t have done that…” He agrees, “I will bring you some water, love. Wait here.” He kissed his beloved’s forehead before leaving to get a glass of water. Baizhu helpfully gave him one before he returned to his wife.

Yet before he could give the glass to Ajax, he stopped himself, staring at a scene he thought he could never see. Ajax is softly caressing his flat abdomen, his eyes looking down, a soft smile on his lips, “Thank you for coming into our life, little baby.” His heart shatters to reassemble itself from the warm display.

“And thank you for carrying our child, my love.” Ajax blushed, embarrassed he caught him on the act, “Keep it to yourself. You never saw me do anything.” He laughed at his wife’s acts, “Of course, baobei.” Slowly but surely, his mate finished the glass of water. They left the bathroom just in time for Baizhu to give them a prescription, “This is for the morning sickness. It’s glaze lilies and qingxin, the bitter taste will help keep the nausea at bay. You can steep this in water or tea. Tea is preferable, but not too much. A maximum of two glasses per day. No more than that.” He adds them to his mental note, remembering his instructions.

“What about food? I can’t even stomach congee.” Baizhu mulls his wife’s words, “Try eating them without any seasoning, bland foods should be easier to digest.” With the doctor’s advice, they left for their lodging. He remade another batch of congee, now without any seasoning, simply water and rice. Thankfully, that does not seem to trigger Ajax’s nausea.
He helped his wife to the bed once he was done with his meal, a full meal this time. Ajax even asked for more, the reason was heartwarming,

“Because I have to eat, for them.”

It is possibly one of the only times he will see his wife care about his health this much, “Do you need anything, Ajax? Would you like more water?” He eyes the half-filled glass, taking it with him to fill it later, “What about the pillows? Are they enough?” He thinks they are not fluffy enough, he has to-

A hand is over his own, “Relax, Zhongli.” Ajax smiled at him, squeezing his hand to ease his nerves, “I don’t need any more water, I’m too full from my meal. And the pillows are just right. All I need is for you to hold me.” The sweet smile made his heart skip a beat, “Won’t you come here and snuggle with me?” He complies, placing the glass back on the nightstand to climb on the bed. His wife is instantly on him, snuggling close to his embrace.

A soft giggle resonates from his wife, “You can hold me, Zhongli. I’m not going to break into a million pieces just because you lay your hands on me.” He shakily sighed, holding his wife close, “You are right. I suppose I am just unsure what to do. I have never been in this situation before.” Ocean-blue eyes glint, “Does that mean I’m the first one to have your kid?” He nods, in fact, “You are also my first wife. And my first mate.” His beloved beams, pulling him close to a kiss.

It was chaste, sweet, and short, “Are you happy, Zhongli?” He nods, “No words can describe the overflowing feelings in my heart. I am more than happy. Overjoyed.” A pink flush is on his beloved’s cheeks, “Me too. I can’t believe we’re expecting.” He agrees, that sentence alone sounds absurd.

Yet he is glad to hear it, perhaps more than glad, “Your birthday gift is a success then.” He blinked at the comment, chuckling as he shook his head, “Of course it is, my beloved wife went through all of it for me.” He smiles at the pink flush decorating his mate’s lips, peppering his kisses all over his face as giggles bounce through the walls.

He has hundreds perhaps even thousands of birthdays, well wishes, gifts that were sent to him. And while they are heartwarming in their own way, he cannot say anything will top what he received on his first birthday with his wife.

He would even dare say it was the best birthday he ever had.