jikan_rpg | Heat from the earth's core

Entry tags:

Heat from the earth's core

⌛ Who: Zhongli and Open
⌛ What: Event things and catch all
⌛ When: November
⌛ Where: Catch-all for November
⌛ Warnings: NSFW, kinky shit, some violence, will add more as they come. Also more prompts will Happen i am just half asleep rn

Boiling love
A. Vortex of Time - A Slightly Less Archaic Lord
[Zhongli had not even bothered to read any warning signs: A mistake that will be unfortunate... for anyone else who attempts to join him in the spring.

His archon marks are on full display for once, glowing amber against skin that has taken on the color of obsidian along his arms and legs. It's unusual that he doesn't hide them in public, and yet--

He shoots the next person to join him in the spring with a piercing stare, sharp as a blade and cold as stone. There's no shyness to his nudity, his stance calm but demanding, hair flowing loose around his shoulders.]

How did I get here?

[One moment he's standing there, and the next a spear is manifesting in his hands.

Uh... hm. Might want to talk quickly, perhaps. If someone delays too long, he won't hesitate to pin them to the rocks scattered about the pool, the point of his spear inches from their chest.]

Answer me. Now.

B. Spring of Regeneration - NSFW as fuck, Xeno/Teratophilia, the beginning of heat mechanics
[Perhaps the healing spring will yield a more... relaxing result, of sorts. Zhongli did not get embarrassed easily, but reverting to his younger, more brash self certainly got close.

In contrast, he finds this spring seems to bring out more of his kizuna traits, a loosening of restraint that is not unpleasant-- his body seems to settle into a strange state, somewhere between a draconic and human shaped. Lustrous scales now cover a good deal of his form, hands becoming claws, unbound hair now more of a true mane with glowing tips. His legs too, seem to have taken on a similar state, scales crawling up his calves and disappearing into the water at his waist. He's tucked away in one of the many alcoves, chin resting against one hand as he leans against a large stone in a rather casual sprawl that some from teyvat might recognize from somewhere...

The water shifts around him. There's something scaled and lithe moving through the water below, and if one pays attention long enough, they'll realize the source is a tail. Not that it is particularly easy to pull away from Zhongli's gaze when it turns on whoever joins him: A bright, gleaming gold, sharp and considering.]

...Come closer.

[His voice is calm, but carries an undeniable weight to it as he holds out his hand, palm up and waiting. Almost a command.]

Unlimited Thirst Works - Heat Mechanics, altered states, NSFW ((can be Daikoh, Daishoku, or Daijuu.))

[Zhongli very quickly realizes that there is something off after his... encounter(s) in the spring. Desire warms his blood without direction, and he finds even his self-control is eroding.

Case in point: Some might find the normally refined looking man slumped somewhere on the grounds, in the pools, or in the lodgings. His expression is pinched, flushed, teeth gritted.

If someone tries to touch however, that is when a hand come up to latch onto their shoulder, grip as solid as stone, a harsh breath escaping him.]

...Apologies. My self control is not... [He lets out a huff.] I need... aid.

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[ Oh it's not hard for him to have remembered his time here, which was why Xiao had been so reluctant to actually come along here on this trip. It was only the promise of the hot springs to relieve some of the tension in his muscles that convinced him to go and so, he was finally here.

He'd found his way to the spring of regeneration, though there being people here?

Xiao had made his way over to the alcoves, intending to find one as to bathe in peace and that's when he'd chanced upon it. His lord... most definitely affected by kizuna with an abundance of scales, clawed hands while he sat there while resembling the very statues that littered Liyue. Those glowing eyes are locked onto him and there's really no way he could ever find it in him to entirely say NO when the man spoke like that. ]

Yes, my lord?

[ He soon was standing right before the man, someone so distinctively - oddly - attractive when he was like this. There was little he'd protest to if it was Zhongli telling him to do it, admiration there but also a bundle of other things he'd never once stopped to consider at all. ]

[ Though they'd been separated in the beginning with the cable cars and everything that had gone down until now, it was not unreasonable to think Zhongli wouldn't ever find Childe again, and vice versa. There seemed to be, at this point, a sort of magnetism compelling them to find each other, and such was the case now.

He's not quite sure what it is that the poor unfortunate soul that Zhongli currently has pinned against the stones has done to warrant the god's wrath, but it's a popcorn-worthy scene and one that Childe can't help but to be amused over. He's not dressed for bathing - he's learned his lesson already - and instead retains that odd tunic and pants combo that look more like the uniform for a massage therapist than anything. There's enough about the outfit that suggests a Liyuen flair to it, and it's testament to how much Zhongli might be affecting his tastes that he's chosen something like this for practical wear.

The Hydro vision gleams from his hip and flares up in a bright, vibrant blue as tendrils of water shoot out from the spring and grip onto Zhongli's arms and the butt end of his spear in a playful gesture. Perhaps it's enough distraction for Zhongli's helpless victim to escape. ]

Come now, Xiansheng. We're here to have a good time, and you go on and start fights without me? How rude.

Edited 2021-11-16 09:25 (UTC)

[after finally realising that it'd been the bracelet that had thrown him into a frenzy of sorts, unable to stop himself until his sexual appetite was satiated (spoiler alert, it never was), or until he actually took off the damn thing. the mental clarity after that was more than welcome, and he'd been more careful around others, especially if he saw that damn pink around their wrists.

however, Dohalim's guard is lowered for a moment when he sees Zhongli in obvious distress; he'd just been on his way back to his room to unwind when he saw the other man. of course, Dohalim makes the mistake of holding his hand out to steady him, surprised at the sudden grip oh his shoulder]

What aid do you need?

[Oh, Xiao.... This world had wrought a change in the yaksha that Zhongli admired immensely. A happiness and ease he had never been able to see in Liyue, but one he cherished all the more for being able to see it now.

A hand settles on Xiao's cheek, drawing the smaller adeptus closer so he can see his face better in the shade of the alcove.]

Is it terrible of me, that I am both glad of your happiness here... and yet envious as well?

[Not of Xiao, no, never. But...]

[ It was true that his time here had changed him, softened a lot of those edges while allowing him to actually learn what it was to become more attuned with actual emotions. So Xiao really had made more, actual expressions than he actually realized.

He didn't even protest it when he was drawn in closer, blinking a little in confusion. ]

Envious? How so?

[ Xiao's eyes closed, leaning into that hand on his cheek. This man was one of the few he truly let his guard down with, if only due to how much he trusted and respected him. ]

[There's no recognition in Zhongli's gaze when he looks up, none of the warmth or affection that usually fills his eyes when he sees Childe. Instead there's a sharp amber gaze, cutting like the edge of a blade, a stony countenance that betrays little emotion whatsoever.

The hydro tendrils do seem to draw a reaction, but it's not a kind one-- The hand on his spear tightens, and if Childe isn't careful he'll be trying to rip right out of his grip.]

Who are you, to dare call me with such familiarity? What is this place?

[At least Zhongli is sufficiently distracted enough for the poor, hapless person to flee his wrath, so that's one positive.

It's up to interpretation however if the fact that he's throwing his lance at Childe is one or not.]

[Zhongli had unfortunately missed the memo. Or perhaps he'd just thought himself with stronger self-control. It is unfortunately a moot point now, with how far gone he's already become.

Dohalim's concern, his touch... It is too much for the ex-archon, and that hand held out to him is suddenly grabbed by Zhongli's free one, a surprisingly quick and forceful move spinning their positions to slam Dohalim's back into the wall.

It's in the same second that Zhongli is pressing close, bare inches between them, face breathes away from Dohalim's own.]

I need you, beautiful flower.

[His thumb strokes along the curve of Xiao's jaw, expression warm and fond. He has... never told him of his concerns, his wishes, but that had always been for a reason.

He had made a choice long ago to never question or influence Xiao, to never bind him with word or contract. For it was Xiao's freedom he refused to compromise on, his freedom to live his life as he chose, to make his own choices without influence.

Xiao had bound himself to his duty of his own free will, and Zhongli had allowed him, because it was his choice.]

...I suppose... it is only that I wish I could have seen you this happy in Liyue.

[His fingers slide into Xiao's hair, carefully sliding through the strands with a gentleness that contrasts with his appearance.]

You really don’t like those, huh?

[ it’s an easy assumption to make, given the time in the aquarium. maybe sometime he’ll have to ask the consultant the story about his revulsion - but not right now. now, there’s a spear hurled at his head, thrown there by a very angry, very sexy former Archon. having been subjected to the effects of the spring himself he can figure out what’s going on and it’s easy to look out for a surprise attack when one’s guard is always up.

unfortunately, Childe is still suffering the side-effects of a completely different spring and so now feels compelled to speak a few truths of his own. though, given their history, perhaps this is all to be expected. ]

I’m almost hurt you don’t remember me right now, Zhongli - but that’s fine, I think. You’re beautiful no matter how I see you.

But next time —

[ and the waters of the spring shift and churn, sheer delight encompassing all of the Harbinger’s features. more and more if the tendrils snap up, twisting into appendages and limbs that are probably all too familiar to the Archon. ]

- next time, aim better.

[it's a whirlwind of things that happen at the same time that take Dohalim by surprise as he hits the wall behind him. it's not enough to knock the wind out of him, but it's enough to disorient him before the feeling of an oh so familiar warmth starts spreading through him.

oh, no.

he doesn't even stop Zhongli as his face comes closer-- too close-- nor does he try to move away as their bodies are pressed close to each other. the comment springs a light flush in his cheeks that's mostly hidden under his bronzed skin, but he's very aware that it's there, hot like the rest of him is becoming]

How-- [his mouth seems dry all of a sudden] How would you like me to help?

[unlike most of the other encounters he's had in the springs, he's a little more demure this time; maybe it's just the shock of suddenly being manhandled]

[ To receive these kind touches was unexpected but he didn't question it, filling his chest with a comfortable warmth. Never once had his Lord ever imposed his will on him, and he'd chosen his duty out of respect along with a way he figured he could repay the archon back with.

He practically owed Zhongli his life and was glad to be able to live in such a way where he could make his own choices. ]

Ah... It would never be able to happen, unfortunately. Not with the karmic debt I carry with me or the duty I have to the people of Liyue.

[ His voice is soft despite the words themselves, smiling softly at the brush of fingers through his hair. Kizuna already causing the tips of his hair to glow a similar golden yellow like what Zhongli's already bore. ]

I do not dwell on it. What matters is the time I am able to spend with others here, as I am able to do with you now.

Edited 2021-11-18 11:12 (UTC)

[Maybe it's because he's sitting on the edge of the pool instead of entirely in it that he isn't being affected too strongly by the kizuna in the water just yet. He's wary of anything with a warning sign on it, but surely this one couldn't be too bad. It is soothing, and rather than being aroused with any kind of reckless abandon he finds himself just idly daydreaming about a certain blue-haired cavalry captain while he sits there.

But as time passes, he does spot something moving in the water. His gaze follows the shadow with a small frown, until his eyes fall on--

What... who is that?

The shape is unfamiliar but there's something he knows he recognises in the face, and the voice...]

Zhongli?

....I know.

[There's a hint of sadness in Zhongli's tone, a quietness in those two simple words that speak volumes.

It was a wish he knew could never come to pass, but it did not stop him from harboring it within his heart. It seemed no matter how powerful he has been, no matter how much time passed, he could never truly protect those he cared for in the way he desired.

Many would be surprised, at how helpless a god could often feel at times.

He watches the tips of Xiao's hair take on a familiar glow, and there's a soft quirk of a smile at the edge of his lips as he closes what little distance remains between them-- pressing a kiss to Xiao's brow.] ...Yes, I suppose you are right. Cherishing the present and the gifts it gives us is what matters, now.

[Well, At the very least the water tentacles didn't reek, so that is a plus in their favor... barely.

The similarity to the chosen form of a certain vortex god however, was a much larger minus. His lips thin, words on the tip of his tongue... until Childe says that.

It's actually surprising enough for the Archon to be taken aback, and by that time Childe is manifesting even more water tendrils.]

Such flattery in the midst of battle will get you nowhere. Answer me, or I will force the answers from you.

[He seems less than amused by the imitation, certainly.] Are you a follower of Osial, perhaps? Your lord would not be amused.

[Dohalim is not going to get any breathing room, unfortunately: Zhongli leans even closer, breath fanning against the side of his neck, tickling the shell of his ear.]

Surely you feel it too, don't you...?

[The hand on Dohalim's shoulder wanders, sliding down his shoulder to his chest as long, elegant fingers trace his body in a deliberately slow, almost possessive caress. He's at least maintained his form this time, so there are no claws... but the intensity in his voice and touch cannot be denied.]

I would have you unravel beneath me, bare your body and soul piece by piece until you are trembling with need. I would have my name on your lips as I push you to the brink, over and over, until you can think of nothing but me.

[His lips brush against Dohalim's ear, voice a low rumble.]

I would take you where only my eyes can see, unless you would rather I take you here in the hallway where all passing by can see how beautifully you fall apart.

Edited 2021-11-20 05:33 (UTC)

There’s nothing more I’d like than for you to force it out of me.

[ and he sounds like he means it, too; but the way Zhongli looks taken aback by what he says reminds him too much of his Zhongli for him to ignore, and the tendrils of Hydro don’t immediately go to wrap around the Archon’s limbs like he’d intended.

Instead - they flutter with a great shuddering of water, droplets separating and reforming with a thought. The perfectly rounded spheres of water beading in the air reshape themselves, elongating and curving into shapes.

The first narwhal is set adrift on a wisp of steam, encircling around the other’s form confidently, fearlessly. It’s quickly joined by a second, and then a smaller third, and they drift and weave over the clouds of steam as they gently orbit the Archon’s body. ]

But also, I think you’ve been in there long enough. Come out, xiansheng?

[ he doesn’t mean to say what comes next, but - sometimes life just be funny like that. ]

For the sake of someone that loves you.

[ There was a definite touch of sadness in just those two words alone and he had to wonder if Zhongli actually somehow blamed himself for the things he himself endured on a daily basis. Something he almost wanted to tell him not to do, that it was okay.

Xiao's eyes opened to look up at the archon, and he nodded without so much as a second thought. His smile remained, and a soft hum breathed out past his lips. ]

It won't do any good to focus on the past, or things we have no control in being able to change. Right now... I enjoy being with you.

[ He couldn't ignore the heat from the water, comfortable and yet almost stifling in a way he couldn't explain. Maybe it was what had him speaking these next words, quiet but inherently honest. ]

If there's... ever... anything you want from me, please do not hesitate to tell me. I would not refuse you.

[There is indeed a great deal to take in, with how Zhongli has relaxed his form. That 'something' moving in the water can be identified as a tail if Diluc peers long enough, but it is far from the most conspicuous trait zhongli has right now.

That would probably be the glowing markings etched over his body, a similar shade to the unnatural way his eyes seem to shine in the dim light.]

Yes, it is. [There's a barely there, quiet smile on his lips as he tilts his head, dark strands of hair sliding over his shoulder.] Has the evening treated you well? You seem surprised.

Edited 2021-11-20 12:20 (UTC)

[oh, he can feel it, alright. the heat rising in him, the burn of desire, something he'd become very familiar with since his arrival in the hot springs especially. he's almost too hyperaware of those fingers, lighting hot trails in their wake, and the closeness of the other man, feeling the gentle puffs of air against his ear, and those words, oh those words--]

You can... Do with me what you will.

[Dohalim doesn't even try to stop those words from slipping out past his lips, before letting out a stuttering breath. there's a sheer desperation for Zhongli's touch that he suddenly can't hold back; he reaches up with his free hand to gently grasp at his shoulder, tugging him a little closer. he wants it, he wants to be flush against the man's body, to be taken, and honestly, he didn't even care where. if Zhongli were comfortable enough to do it right where they're standing, Dohalim wouldn't argue]

Take me wherever and however you please. Become my undoing, so that I may exist only for your pleasure. I would want nothing more than to please you.

[Unlike a certain god, Scaramouche is quite set one reading the signs for the hot springs, fully intent on avoiding those that he doesn't like the sound of. 'The Vortex of Time' is one such spring that he has no desire to even attempt to relax in, initially passing it by without so much as a glance.

The springs he deems suitable are all too busy for his liking, causing him to wander back to those he he initially skipped over. While he has no wish to soak in the waters with effects he wants no part of, lounging next to the water sounds suitable enough for now. The rocks are likely warm enough.

A familiar figure just so happens to be in the one he finds the least crowded, which is fine by him as he has no issue with the god, provided he makes no references to him looking like his creator again - he hasn't been bothered enough to cut his hair. Except perhaps he should have found issue, given what this particular hot spring was capable of.

Before he can even get himself settled he can hear the Archon's confusion, a heavy sigh escaping him as moments later a spear is pointed his way. The Harbinger isn't even surprised at this point, expression entirely over the ordeal rather than concerned by it. That any attempts of his to relax is met with chaos may as well be the norm at this point.]

People tend to be more inclined to answering when not being threatened.

[ Venti has experienced this before. It's been awhile, but he knows the desire to indulge well. He wants everything - drink, food, sex. He's never really been one to resist his desires, so he was going to go back to his room and at least get two of the three. He feels restless, uneasy even. It's like there's something crawling underneath his skin itching to get out and escape.

And when his eyes settle on Zhongli, he becomes a new source of interest for Venti almost immediately. And when he touches the other in concern - his hand on his shoulder sends fire through his skin - even through the fabric of the kimono. ]

Zhongli.

[ His head is spinning and his fixation is quickly shifting from the most basic desires to his oldest friend. His voice is unsteady. He just wants - that's all. Just wants everything. He exhales sharply. ]

I have you. Let's, hm [ he considers ] -- can you walk?

[The water shifts and shudders, and Zhongli's shoulders tense, awaiting an attack--

only for what comes to give him even more pause: It's apparent in his eyes, if not overtly. This Zhongli seems more stonefaced than even the one Childe knows, but the traces remain, easily read by those familiar with Zhongli's body language, in the hints of surprise and admiration in his gaze.

It is not what he expected, but it is... beautiful, in a way.

His gaze is caught by the swirling water constructs, so much so that when Childe speaks again, his eyes snap up with shock, like someone had dropped a book in an empty library.]

....What?

[Admiration, worship, fear and respect-- these are things the Archon is familiar with. When you have carved mountains and slain gods, many began to look to you with awe.

Love however? Was a vague and difficult concept.]

[ perhaps he'd disillusioned himself into thinking that what happened in the spring stayed in the spring, and that no one would remember what happens when they leave. perhaps if he pretends long enough that will become a reality, and so therefore he feels little to no shame over what he'd said to Zhongli.

(it probably also helps that he's been suffering the effects of the truth spring for a while even after leaving it, and he's pretty sure he'd be able to blame everything he said on it when this was all said and done).

there's something magical in being able to tame a dragon, he thinks. while his normally tried and true method would be to completely dominate and subdue it through combat, there's something ethereal and divine in the way Zhongli opens up like this. in the way his eyes flicker with surprise, how they seem to glow even more vibrantly now than they ever have before.

or maybe that's just the magic of the truth spring, that he's able to appreciate them without any misgivings, without anything holding him back. ]

Come out of there, xiansheng. [ he coaxes, again, and holds out a hand to him. ] If you want to fight someone, come and fight me, properly.

[Do with me what you will. A dangerous thing to say, when Zhongli was like this. He was a man of great self-control, an adeptus, a god, but... even he had his limits.

His words only add fuel to the fire, molten heat filling his chest as Dohalim offers himself up for Zhongli's pleasure, to be undone and wanting for him and him only.

His voice is more growl than human when he speaks next, arm sliding around Dohalim's waist greedily as he pulls back just enough to look into his eyes, his own luminous amber.]

Then you shall be mine tonight.

[Dohalim gets no warning. With almost no effort Zhongli is scooping him into his arms, one tucking around his back and waist while the other slides beneath his thighs. They are only a few paces from his room, but that will not stop Zhongli from nipping and kissing against Dohalim's shoulder the whole way there, covetous fingers stroking along the underside of his thigh.

it's only when they're safely behind closed doors that Zhongli presses Dohalim into his futon roughly, the hand on his back curling it's way up to his neck to sink into brilliant red locks as he presses his lips against his in a frenzied kiss, as if to devour him whole.]

[Blame was perhaps not the right word.... regret however...

He had gained many regrets, over six thousand years. Xiao's unhappiness was certainly one of them, and not one he wished Xiao to concern himself over.

Learning to live more in the present was a difficult task for a oldest archon, but it was one he was trying to become better at. And it was... easier in some ways, to focus on what he had in this world.

Like Xiao's smile in this moment, his contentment.]

I enjoy being with you, as well. That we have such time now is a blessing in and of itself, and one I would not squander with regrets.

[The warmth filling him is not only from the water-- this he knows. It's Xiao's presence, his smile. He wants to give him all the more reasons to smile, if he can.]

...I know you would not. Though I do hope if there is something I want of you that you do not wish to give, you would still refuse me. [He lets those words settle in the air around them for a moment.] But as for what I want from you...

[He presses his forehead against Xiao's own, eyes glowing softly.]

...I would like to give you more reasons to be happy. To feel content.

[Zhongli might not even recognize Scaramouche's face, depending on how far back he has been taken. There is certainly no recognition in his eyes at the moment, only a wariness of one who has battled many gods and suspects an illusion or trap of some sort out of suddenly awakening in unrecognizable territory.

That he is naked matters not: it is not anywhere near his immediate concerns, to be sure. That everyone else seems to be is... odd certainly, but perhaps there is a reason for this as well.

At the young man's response, he does lower his spear... but it would take him but a moment to attack regardless.]

This is not where I was. Tell me where I have been taken.

Edited 2021-11-23 07:51 (UTC)

[Zhongli meanwhile is a far more restrained person by nature. Perhaps that is why the desire is so intense, after he tried to ignore it so completely.

He inhales sharply when Venti speaks his name, eyes near luminescent as he tugs his friend closer. Resists, just barely, to bury his head against the soft curve of Venti's neck.]

I... yes. I can walk.

[His voice is rough, hand unwilling to leave Venti's shoulder even slightly. A compromise, perhaps, to not peeling the clothing from his body to feel his skin against his.]

Where....?

[it's the sound of Zhongli's voice, that growl that sends a shiver down Dohalim's spine, but what he wasn't expecting was to literally be swept off his feet. though, he isn't going to protest as he's carried off to wherever Zhongli saw fit to take him, however exciting it would have been to be fucked in front of other people, he's more excited to see what the man would do in the privacy of closed doors. the nips and kisses along his shoulder and the gentle strokes against his thigh only sends a burning warmth through him, a desire for more.

so it's when they're both in the room and it's when he's unceremoniously pushed into the mattress that he lets himself be opened up just a little bit, as he's pulled into that searing kiss. an arm is thrown back behind him to keep him up as the other glides up to rest against Zhongli's neck gently. his legs spread just far enough for his yukata to fall open just enough to tease and invite more sinuous touches]

I see no way that I wouldn't be surprised.

[Though all in all he thinks he's taking it remarkably well. He knew the man was an adeptus - or, suspected as much at least - but that form, and the way he's sitting...

Ah.]

... You're the Geo Archon. [Diluc murmurs then, almost to himself. He's not surprised he didn't see it - he'd had no idea about Venti either until he was told up-front.] You're Rex Lapis.

[And it's so obvious to him now. It explains so much. Answers questions that he hadn't wanted to ask the first time they had met in person because they had either seemed rude or ridiculous to even put into words.]

... I suppose that isn't as surprising as I thought it would be, after all.

I share the sentiment. I was never expecting to be pulled in here... and it has made me realize how many things I had been taking for granted, or simply overlooked as it wasn't a part of my everyday responsibilities.

[ Such as love, kindness and the closeness of others. A warmth that encircled his once cold, lonely heart. He no longer could truly entertain a life that did not have Venti in it, or the company of a good number of people who'd managed to get oh-so-close to him in his time here. ]

Do not worry. If I truly held reservations about something you wanted from me and I did not wish to give it, I assure you I would refuse it... but only then.

[ As of this moment, his own gold eyes seemed to glow softly as well and nothing but a quiet reverence lied within them. Admiration, a sort of love, respect and something else he couldn't truly place a finger on. ]

Do... you have anything in mind? Where you would start to be able to give me such reasons?

[ Xiao's voice was quiet, gaze curious and searching. He's never gotten to be this close with his lord, the geo archon. Someone who's been so strong, and untouchable. Had he been wrong to put him on a pedestal of sorts, for all this time? This all was nice, opening his eyes and filling a part of him he didn't realize had been missing. ]

Formerly the Geo Archon... But yes, I was. [It's a gentle correction, not a denial. Liyue would no longer define itself under Rex Lapis' rule, and it was a point of pride for him.] ...I did not realize you did not know. You already know Bar-- Venti, do you not? And Childe, for that matter.

[He tilts his head slightly in inquiry, curious. Venti was not known for being subtle, and surely he would have felt free admit to Zhongli being one of his 'oldest friends'.

Then again, Venti could be surprisingly considerate when it suited him.]

...It is not something I make an attempt to hide here, since several know already.

[His tail rises from the water, tucking itself loosely in his lap as he smiles slightly, hand still outstretched for Diluc to join him.] This does not change anything, I hope?

[ It is obvious that Zhongli has something going on, too. Venti isn't sure what it is yet, but he's sure in a short time they'll have figured it out together. He steps in closer when Zhongli pulls him closer. And as much as he wants to bury himself against the other right here, he knows if he does he won't want to stop at that. It's the one impulse that he resists. The one he stops himself from caving to. ]

My room.

[ There's zero hesitation when he answers. It was where he was already heading, after all. So he doesn't have another place in mind to go right now. He tilts his head upwards towards Zhongli. ]

I'll lead you there.

[ At least it's not horribly far because he doesn't know how long he'll resist keeping hands off Zhongli. Only managing to keep his mind at ease knowing that they won't have to resist anymore once they're there. ]

Edited 2021-11-29 04:36 (UTC)

Formerly?

[Not something he had been aware of. An archon stepping down is news that would no doubt travel swiftly and with Diluc's considerable network of contacts surely it's something he would have heard... but, ah.

He shakes his head slightly.]

Never mind.

[It mustn't have happened yet. He isn't going to pry into it - if he's ever meant to know more, he's sure that it will come to him while he's here.]

Venti hasn't talked about you, and I haven't asked. [He says then, and though he knew the two were friends he had also simply assumed that Zhongli was an adeptus. Honestly, he should know better than to assume anything when it comes to meeting people like Venti... and Zhongli, apparently.] And Childe and I do not talk.

[Please, do not assume they are friends. Do not assume Diluc even likes him at all.

But he does hesitate, looking at that hand being offered. It's no small thing to refuse an offer from an archon, or to accept one, and while he knows and trusts Venti well due to shared experience and a connection between them that sometimes feel as if it goes back for thousands of years, he has no such trust of the (former) Geo Archon. If anything, he knows to step carefully around the God of Contracts.]

Some things. [Diluc's not going to lie about that, but...] Nothing too dramatically. [Yet. How that might change remains to be seen. The redhead sighs softly and steps down into the water, moving across to where Zhongli is and joining him.]

Truly? I would not be surprised if Childe saw you as a friend, given his particularities. But I can understand why you might not view him as so. [He smiles wryly, nonetheless pleased when Diluc finally opts to join him. He found the other man's company enjoyable, on his part. He would hate to see his identity be what makes things uncomfortable between them.]

I apologize if this makes things awkward for you. Before I stepped down as an Archon, I made the choice to simply live as the man Zhongli, though it has been more of an adjustment than I expected. I... forget, that my identity might be of consequence to others. [His lips quirk slightly.] Though perhaps in part it is selfishness, I must admit. Likely much for the same reasons Venti does not advertise the same, no doubt.

[The gods of Teyvat were still individuals, still people who desired contact with others, companionship, connection. Venti had chosen from the beginning to walk among his people as their equal, while Zhongli had focused on his duty above all else, protecting and guiding the people of Liyue. Even the adepti did not necessarily speak to him as a friend: he was their Prime before all else, in the eyes of many.]

[Diluc goes eeriely still for a moment when the words 'Childe' and 'friend' leave Zhongli in the same sentence. He gives a short and silent shake of his head to the rest of what the other man says, having no real issue with him being an archon save for a small mental adjustment. He had taken Venti's sudden reveal of his status fairly well after all, and he could do the same for Zhongli.

No, it's the first thing that he sticks on. Snagged on it like a net caught on the rocks.]

No, I don't believe you understand at all why I wouldn't see Childe that way. [His behaviour hasn't broadcast it - bringing him home when injured, after all, was not the act of someone who would not feel a single shift of emotion should the man drop dead - so maybe he can't fully blame Zhongli for his error in this matter.]

Nor would I ever wish to. [There's a forced stability in his voice. A withdrawal of emotion when compared to his initial conversation with Zhongli.] I'd prefer not to talk about him. Or think about him, in fact. At all.

[A sigh of relief passes the Harbinger's lips as the spear is lowered - the last thing he wants is an impromptu fight with the Geo Archon, though he has the magic to teleport now, so if necessary he has an out should a fight happen and he not feel safe to turn his back. That he isn't recognized doesn't come as a surprise, Scaramouche has little idea as to when Zhongli is from at this point, but regardless of when, he's a threat if it comes to it.

More importantly they really ought to stop meeting when the god is missing clothes.]

This isn't Teyvat, so that's no surprise.

[Despite not attempting to rile up the now younger god, his tone does little to hide his annoyance. He was here to relax, not babysit someone more than twice his age.]

You're in Nippon. Are all gods incompetent, or do you just lack the ability to read considering you picked the hot spring on a time surge?

I was not trying to make assumptions, my apologies. [Merely that he knew that many
would be wary of anyone working for the Fatui, let alone a Harbinger.

But that is all he'll say on the matter, given Diluc's insistence they change the topic. He does not wish to sour their conversation, or their current companionship.]

I suppose what I truly intend to say is that I am interested in getting to know you better, if you are amenable.

[As if reaching out to Diluc, the scaly tail that's been swishing about beneath the water tucks itself near him-- there's a tuft of fur at the end the color of bronze that shades into bright, gleaming gold near the end.] You are an intriguing person.

[He hesitates, for a moment, then waves his hand slightly to dismiss the apology.]

It's fine. [Diluc mutters, barely audible under what the other man says next as the redhead's customary faint frown settles into place across his brow. Zhongli would be familiar with that facial expression, at least.

He had almost forgotten about the tail (how, he wonders, but it's getting easier to overlook strange things) when it sidles up next to him. It's a pure impulse that makes him reach out to carefully place his hand on it.]

I imagine I should be flattered. [To catch the attention of not one archon but two in such a manner? Diluc doesn't think he's terribly interesting, but he supposes that from an outside perspective he can see why someone might view him as such.]

As it happens, you have turned out to be far more intriguing than I first expected.

Threaded | Top-Level Comments Only

Heat from the earth's core

B

AAAAAA

Thirst Works babieeeeee - daikoh

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B let's fuckin goooooo

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A

thirst works; surprise me. venti is daishoku

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Consider: daishoku on daishoku for max horny. Or Daikoh

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daishoku on daishoku for max horny it is.

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