Chapter Text
Splash!
Wanderer jumped back as Childe was pulled into the water nearly splashing him. The fish that had been on his hook had made him lose his footing and caused him to fall into the water. The fishing rod he had once been holding now floated away from the shore.
Ajax resurfaced sputtering and soaked with his clothes now sticking to his skin. He coughed up some water before shaking his head to try to get some of the water out of his hair. He has had his fair share of fights when it came to fishing but nothing like that had ever happened. He had once again found himself distracted by those alluring eyes.
Ajax froze when he heard the soft sound of laughter coming from behind him. He turned around to see Wanderer clutching his stomach as he held his other hand over his mouth trying to silence the sound escaping his lips. Ajax blinked a few times to make sure he wasn’t just imagining things. He felt a small smile appear on his lips as he watched. The way he squeezed his eyes shut which made his nose scrunch up was one of the most beautiful things he had ever seen.
When Wanderer finally got ahold of himself he straightened up and looked at Childe confused.
“What?”
“Nothing. I’ve just never heard you laugh before. It’s nice.”
Wanderer felt that stupid heat rush to his face again as he looked away. “Shut up and get out of the water, you buffoon.”
Ajax smiled before doing as he said and shaking his head to get rid of any more water he could. Unknowingly splashing Wanderer who covered his face and told him off. Ajax quickly apologized while ringing out his shirt.
“There’s water in my boots,” he muttered as he removed his left shoe and poured the water out. He then did the same with his other shoe. His socks were soaked which made them extremely uncomfortable to even stand in. He grumbled something under his breath that the other didn’t hear as he forced himself to put his boots back on. He was going to have to go back to his hotel room to change into dry clothes. However, that thought gave him an idea.
“Hey,” he started. “I never did get to take you out to that lunch like I offered. How about a dinner instead?”
Wanderer raised a brow as he looked him up and down. “You’re going out to eat like that?”
He chuckled before shaking his head, “no, I’ll go and change and meet you tonight at around nine? We can go wherever you want.”
Wanderer didn’t really eat often but when he did he much preferred choosing what he got to put into his stomach. He agreed before he could change his mind. Ajax offered him one more smile after they agreed on their meeting spot and then said goodbye. He made quick work with his feet to get to his hotel room.
Once he arrived he peeled off the clothing that stuck to his skin like a wet napkin. Never would he get used to the feeling of wet clothes. The only other time his clothes stuck to him like that was after an intense training session.
After his shower, he knew that his clothes wouldn’t be dry in time for his dinner. He looked through his luggage to see what he could find. He wasn’t sure how nice this dinner would be or how casual so he wanted to find a nice middle ground. He ended up on deciding on a pair of black pants and his thigh strap. For his shirt, he had a blue t-shirt underneath and a white one that had a few “on purpose” holes. He topped it off with a white coat that had a fur lining on the collar.
Was it too casual? He sometimes wore this outfit to ski but he didn’t want to over-dress either. He brought a hand to his chin as he looked at all the other clothes he had thrown onto the floor while trying to find an outfit. He had his Fatui coat but that’s not only intimidating, but it had no place in his plans tonight.
Archons, did he hope he made the right choice.
Nine pm arrived much quicker than he thought and he had to rush out of his hotel room to make sure he made it on time. He knew his recruits were most likely waiting for him but truth be told he couldn’t think of anything else but the person he was supposed to meet. He didn’t see any of his subordinates around which meant he was in the clear if he moved fast.
When he arrived at their meeting spot Wanderer was nowhere to be seen. Shit, was this not the right address? He glanced at the street sign which confirmed that he was where Wanderer told him to meet him.
Relax, Ajax. It just turned nine, he’s probably on his way.
When nine-twenty hit he found himself seated on a bench with his elbows on his knees and his head in his hands. It was still early but was there a reason he wasn’t here? Was he getting stood up? This wasn’t even a date and yet he still found his heart dropping to his stomach at the thought.
Okay, he kind of hoped it could maybe turn into one even if he didn’t know the guy that well yet.
9:30
9:40
9:50…
Ajax sighed as he hid his watch with his coat's sleeve so the time couldn’t mock him anymore. He wasn’t coming. Why did he think he would? Because he asked him to?
Yeah, that’s usually how it works.
Ajax stood up from the bench and turned in the direction of his hotel room. He had lost any appetite he originally had. Now he was just going to go to his room and go to bed. It works out for him. He needed to get up early in the morning to finish his work with the Akademia.
Tap, tap.
The light touch on his shoulder made him glance over his shoulder and that’s when he finally saw him. He was here. He did come. Almost an hour late but damn it, he was here. Ajax turned to face him properly and that’s when he realized he had changed himself.
Wanderer stood in front of him without his large hat and instead a dark blue beret. He still had that same black undershirt but now he wore a white collared shirt with cuffs, tucked into a pair of black shorts and a purple belt tied around his waist. Instead of the large bell he usually wore, he instead had a small necklace of it. Finally, hanging over his shoulder was a scarf that matched the color of his beret, and instead of his sandals, he wore a pair of black boots.
Shit! He was underdressed. He found himself lost in thought as he stared at him. There was so much he wanted to say but couldn’t find the words.
“You’re late,” was what came out first.
Wanderer hissed under his breath which made Ajax think that the comment had stung him in some kind of way.
“I know. I got,” he glanced away, “stuck talking with my…aunt. She was trying to give me advice.”
“Advice about what?”
“It doesn’t matter.” Wanderer felt the edge of an apology tickling the tip of his tongue but couldn't find it in himself to force the words out. “Let’s just go eat.”
Ajax followed him as he walked towards the restaurant he wished to go to. Ajax assumed they’d have a bit of a walk but apparently, the one he stood outside was the place they were going to. It was called Lambad Tavern and it was quite big. He followed him inside and to a table in the corner where they sat down. Why did he always sit in corners?
Ajax read the menu so when the waiter came over he would know what he wanted. A man who looked around his thirties came over and asked what they wanted. Wanderer got a cup of black tea and a Lambad Fish roll while Ajax got a glass of water and a Shawarma Wrap.
As soon as the waiter left Ajax turned to Wanderer with a small smile. There were so many questions he wanted to ask but there was one he’s been thinking about ever since he met him.
“If you don’t mind me asking, how did you learn how to make dolls?”
Wanderer felt his eyebrows raise at the strange question, “a long time ago. It’s just something I picked back up recently as a side hobby if you will. Which reminds me.”
Wanderer reached into his pocket and pulled out something that was wrapped in paper with a red ribbon holding it together. It was wrapped the same way the doll Ajax had purchased from him was. He made him another one? He held it out to the Harbinger to take, however, he sat motionless.
“I made this for your little brother. It’s nothing special,” he explained. “Just something I thought might make him feel better while he recovers.”
Ajax couldn’t move his eyes away from the hand that held out the gift to him. A small breath escaped his lips as he slowly lifted his hand to take it. He couldn’t see what it looked like but it felt the same weight as the other one he had.
“I,” he tried to speak but found himself at a loss. “Thank you. I’ll give it to him as soon as I see him. I…can’t believe you’d do something like that.”
He waved him off, “argh, it’s nothing really. Don’t get sappy.”
They had too different meanings of nothing. The only time anyone had made him something for his family was when he begged Dottore to make a Mr. Cyclops toy for him to give to his brother. However, that was very different from this. Wanderer heard his brother was sick and immediately went to make him something in hopes that it would lift the boys' spirits. Teucer would often find himself upset when he was sick because that meant he was unable to help his family around the house or with chores.
Before he could repeat his thanks the waiter returned with their food. Ajax placed the doll by his side so it was off of the table as his plate was placed in front of him. He said his thanks and grabbed his fork to begin eating. Ajax asked various questions such as ‘what is life like in Sumeru’ and ‘how long has he been here?’ He found himself simply getting lost in his voice as he listened. The night continued on like this for a while.
Wanderer placed his utensil down and rested his hand on the table which unknowingly caught the redhead's attention. Ajax covered his mouth with his right hand as he glanced between Wanderer and his hand. As Wanderer's other hand reached for his tea that he slowly brought to his lips, Ajax found him at war with himself. Their hands were close but nowhere near touching. He hesitated as he tapped his finger against the wooden table.
Ajax felt his heart race as he slowly inched his fingers closer to Wanderers. He stopped moving his hand when their fingers were only a centimeter apart. If either one of them moved their middle fingers would touch.
Wanderer placed his cup down clearly unbeknownst to what was happening and the mental crisis Ajax was having inside his own head. He remembered how cold his fingers had been the other day when he gave him that glass of water. He wondered if they would be cold again or if they’d be warm.
Right when he was about to move their waiter came back and forced him out of his thoughts. He jumped back and quickly put his hands into his lap as he felt a heat rush to his face. Wanderer looked at him confused but didn’t comment on the action. The rest of their meal was spent with simple talking but Ajax wasn’t fully in the conversation anymore.
Once they finished eating Ajax paid for both of them and followed Wanderer out of the restaurant. Wanderer turned to him and crossed his arms, “are you happy now that you’ve paid for a meal?”
Ajax glanced at him before lifting his head to look around at the scenery. It was getting late and after tonight he wouldn’t have any free time left to roam Sumeru. He would be stuck working until the day he leaves.
“Show me something.”
“Show you what?” Wanderer asked.
“Anything.”
Wanderer blinked in confusion as he tried to gather his thoughts. What did he mean show him something? Like show him a trick or show him a place? Wanderer brought a hand to his chin as he tried to think. The first place that came to mind wa s Mawtiyima Forest. Wanderer often went there to get some peace and quiet since most wouldn’t dare to go there alone. It was often filled with slimes and those weird cabbages. It would be considered dangerous to anyone who didn’t possess a vision or know how to fight.
Without a word, he began to walk and knew the other would follow. It took them a while but they eventually reached Mawtiyima Forest. Ajax found himself in awe as he looked around. He had never seen anything so beautiful before. There were large mushrooms all across the land that admitted a soft blue glow. Fireflies danced around them while brightening up the scenery.
Wanderer took a glance up at Childe who was distracted by all that surrounded him. He could see the lights shining in his eyes as he drank everything in. A lot of people know him as a ruthless war machine but right now he looked as delicate as a flower. Childe followed him to the top of a hill where they sat on the edge of a mushroom and let their legs dangle over.
“How did you find this place?”
Wanderer shrugged, “I often come here to get away from people. I’ve never taken anyone else here before.”
Ajax smiled as they let a calm silence nestle between the two. It was clear Wanderer didn’t often find joy in long conversations so when he felt like he reached his limit he shut his mouth. They listened to the sounds of birds chirping and frogs croaking. Ajax placed his hands on the grass and leaned back. He closed his eyes when he felt a gentle breeze skim across his face and lifted his bangs off his forehead.
When he reopened his eyes he glanced at Wanderer but found he had already been looking at him. When Wanderer realized he had been caught he quickly looked away. Ajax glanced to the side before leaning on his hand to get closer to him. His action making Wanderer turn his head to see what he was doing. As soon as he did he found himself face to face with Ajax who was only a few inches apart. He waited to make sure Wanderer wouldn’t push him away and he didn’t.
He leaned closer until finally their lips softly clashed against one another. Wanderer felt his hollow body turn stiff at the action. However, he couldn’t help but slowly become more relaxed in this position. His eyelids slowly slipped closed to return his kiss. Wanderer found his hand reaching up and slipping into the back of Childe’s hair. It somehow brought him some stability to the heat rushing to his face.
The moment ended too quickly and not quick enough. Ajax departed from him and leaned back to stare into those indigo eyes. Both had flushed cheeks as their eyes shined from the lights floating around them. They didn’t speak and perhaps they didn’t need to. That one action spoke more than they ever could.
The sounds of birds chirping filled their ears as they leaned closer once more.
-
The next morning Ajax woke up bright and early to make sure he made it to his meeting on time. His subordinates noticed a weird skip in his step as he made his way out. Once Ajax arrived, he was greeted warmly which made him believe that they had good news to share and they did.
The head of the Akademiya told him that they thought over his proposition and that they were willing to remend their relationship with the Fatui. However, they made it clear that when it came to future plans they didn’t wish to work with Dottore. He understood since the last time he was here to “wrap things up” he really only caused more issues. It wasn’t secret Dottore really only struck people with fear. So Ajax didn’t mind that he was the one that they wanted to return. It also meant he could see someone else again.
The next few days were spent with him going back and forth between what time he would be able to return to check-in. He raised a hand to his chin as he looked at the schedule he made for himself.
“Lord Harbinger.”
Ajax turned to look over his shoulder to see the Grand Sage. He nodded, “yes? What can I do for you, sir?”
“I was wondering if you met with the scribe. He’s responsible for keeping track of all our documents.” He explained, “he wasn’t able to attend to our previous meetings so he was only brought the notes. He’ll need to confirm the dates for your arrival when you return to Sumeru.”
“Okay,” Ajax responded. “What’s his name and where can I find him?”
“His name is Alhaitham. I wrote his address on this.” The Grand Sage explained as he handed him a piece of paper. Ajax took it from his hand and read the address. He wasn’t too far from here, hopefully he was home.
Ajax said his thanks before leaving the Akademiya and heading to the scribes' home. When he arrived he realized he had passed this house a few times when he came for his meetings. He gently knocked on the door and waited.
“Ha! Finally, forgot your keys?” Someone on the other side of the door shouted. He heard the sound of a lock being turned before the door opened. Before him stood that blonde male he saw last week. However, the man yelped when he saw him.
“Wha-? Who are you?! What are you doing here?! Quick, don't let anyone see me,” he said before he grabbed Ajax’s arm and pulled him inside, slamming the door shut behind him. He then immediately turned to whip Ajax with a glare.
“Who are you?” He repeated.
Ajax put his hands up, “I’m sorry. My name is Childe. I was just looking for Alhaitham . The scribe, right?”
The blonde man raised a hand to his temple, “yes, yes, I know. He’s my roommate but don’t tell anyone that. The less people who know that the better."
Ajax raised an eyebrow as he glanced to the side and back at him. He cleared his throat by banging his fist on his chest.
“Yes, sorry. Do you know where he is?”
As soon as those words left his mouth the front door opened again. A grey-haired male walked in and raised an eyebrow at the two men standing in his living room.
“Oh, hello.” He started. “Interrupt something, did I?”
The blonde glared, “the next time you plan to invite your friends over be sure to tell me.”
“I have no idea who that is, Kaveh.” He responded.
Ajax bowed his head, “I’m sorry for the intrusion, really. The Grand Sage asked me to come here to talk with the scribe who I presume is you?”
“Yes,” he nodded. “And you are?”
Ajax placed his hand over his heart, “my name is Tartaglia but you can call me Childe. I’m here for work. I was wondering if you could just confirm the dates that I would be returning to Sumeru.”
“Do you have them?”
Ajax nodded before reaching into his pocket to pull out the schedule he made and handing it to Alhaithem. He took the paper from his hand and skimmed it. He didn’t look at it for very long before handing it back to the Harbinger.
“I’ll be sure to document it when I go into work tomorrow, thank you.” Alhaithem nodded.
Ajax smiled before thanking him himself and then turning to Kaveh, “thank you for letting me in. I’ll take my leave now.”
The blonde nodded his head and Ajax took that as his sign to leave. As soon as the door shut behind him he heard whispered arguing. However, he quickly left to make sure he didn’t overhear anything. He then headed back to his apartment to begin packing. He had to leave tomorrow morning and as much as he would love to stay, he needed to see his family, to see his little brother. He wanted to check on him and make sure he was getting better. Simple cold or not he had to be sure.
When he arrived he ordered his subordinates to do the same. They would be leaving with him to train in the harsh weather of his homeland. Even on his “vacations” he was still working.
-
When the sun rose the morning of his departure it hit his face through his open curtained windows. He squinted as he opened his eyes to get them to adjust to the light. The past week had gone by faster than his entire time in Liyue. He knew he would miss it or someone, he guesses.
He got out to bed to stretch, shower, change, and head to the docks where his boat was.
He watched his recruits load up the boat with his hands on his hips before deciding to help. He brought his luggage to his room and brought their supplies to the lower deck. Ajax had made sure he had his gifts and the dolls for his siblings. He had put them in a separate bag so nothing got messed up during their travel.
He wiped his hands on his pants when they finished, “thank you for-.”
Ajax stopped talking when he heard the sound of running coming his way. Was someone trying to attack him? When he quickly turned around he found a different scene before him.
Wanderer was running across the street towards him as fast as his legs could carry him. He slid to a stop once he reached the docks. He stood a few feet away from Ajax while trying to catch his breath.
“Wanderer,” he spoke breathlessly as if he had been the one running.
“You’re leaving.”
Ajax's lips snapped shut as he glanced over his shoulder at his ship before turning back to Wanderer.
“Yes. My time here is up.”
Wanderer felt his eyes narrow but he couldn’t be angry at him. He knew his time in Sumeru was limited but he just hadn’t expected it to end as quickly as it had. He thought maybe he’d have one more day at least but he didn’t. He was leaving.
“I’ll be back,” Ajax tried to explain. "I met with the scribe and-.” He was cut off as Wanderer closed the distance between them and grabbed his scarf, yanking him down to his height.
Their lips clashed sloppily but neither cared as they fell into each other's embrace. Ajax didn’t care that his subordinates were watching or anyone on the docks was for that matter. All that mattered was the man before him. Ajax lifted his hands to the back of his head to deepen the kiss, letting his fingers get lost in those soft indigo strands.
When he pulled back they both found themselves out of breath as they stared at one another. Ajax noticed a pink hue dusting his cheeks that almost made him call off his plans to go home.
“I’ll return for you.”
Wanderer narrowed his eyes as he untangled himself from Ajax’s grasp, “hmph, we’ll see.”
Humans are such filthy liars. They never kept their promises but he did. He always did.
Ajax blinked down at him before smiling softly, letting the dimple in his right cheek appear. He bent down slightly, taking the rim of his head to tilt it back to get a better look at Wanderer’s face.
“I’ll be back. I promise.”
He believed him.
“Goodbye, Wanderer,” he spoke softly as he placed a soft kiss on his forehead.
He didn’t respond as he watched Ajax get onto his ship and watched him sail away. However, that’s when he felt something weighing down his pocket. He reached in and pulled out a red pouch. When he opened it he found mora inside.
1,500…that sly dog. He forced a chuckle past his lips as he raised his head to see Ajax waving at him as he left him alone at the docks.
One day Wanderer would tell him about their forgotten past but that was a topic for the future. He had time until then.
“Goodbye, Ajax.” He whispered to himself.