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“I swear you become more poetic when you miss that boyfriend of yours,” Beidou slung her arm over Kazuha’s shoulder. “You could’ve stayed in Inazuma, kid.”
“You know I cannot stay in one place but for so long, Captain Beidou,” Kazuha smoothed the leave he held, it grew thinner as the fibers broke because of his handling. He fears his budding relationship with Heizou may follow suit. Trying too hard may result in issues growing between them, but Kazuha wants to pursue love. He had never felt a connection quite like this before.
“I get it, kid. But you’re young, you can be selfish you know?” Kazuha pressed his lips into a firm line at her words. Beidou does understand his struggles due to her relationship with the Tianquan. Lady Ningguang and Beidou would be separated for months due to their jobs. However, they could always come back together easily. Perhaps that ability came with age and wisdom, but Kazuha desperately wanted to remain by Heizou’s side. He wished he could have the patience that the two women had.
“He is a renowned detective, it’s best I do not taint his reputation,” Kazuha turned to walk away from Beidou, but her firm grip around his wrist prevented him from moving. He looked over his shoulder quickly enough to see her sigh before releasing him.
“I don’t know what to tell you, Kazuha. I want you to be happy, but I don’t know what to say to get it through your thick skull.”
“Your kindness is enough, Captain. You’ve helped me in more ways than you could know, and for that, I will always be grateful.”
– – –
“What brings you here, Beidou?” Ningguang was surprised to see Beidou arrive at the Jade Chamber before their agreed time. Ningguang wasn’t expecting her for another two days, but when her secretaries all flooded into her office stating Beidou was patiently waiting outside, Ningguang practically rushed out the doors.
“I need to bounce some ideas with someone who has a brain,” Beidou huffed. Ningguang noticed the tension in her jaw and shoulders, letting her in quickly. “Kazuha is gonna make me pull my hair out.”
“Do tell,” Ningguang led them to her study. She slowly brought out the items to make some tea for them both.
“Kazuha and that boy, Heizou, finally got their act together and started dating not long ago.” Beidou slumped into her chair. “Yet, Kazuha got on my boat and had the nerve to lament over his boyfriend. I told him he could’ve stayed, but it seems he’s not willing to let himself be happy.”
“From the few times I’ve met him, he does seem like a stubborn young man. He reminds me a lot of that Adeptus at Wangshu Inn, just more sociable.” Ningguang sat across from Beidou, setting down their teacups. “Perhaps he just doesn’t understand what he wants yet.”
“He’s like my kid, Ning,” Beidou dragged her hand down her face. “I get pissy when he’s upset, I feel when he’s mad, and I want to help. I know he’s an adult and can think for himself-”
“He’s still young, Beidou,” Ningguang reached over, pulling Beidou’s hand into her own. “Some guidance doesn’t hurt.”
“I do have an idea, but I need your help at keeping Kazu off my fucking ship for one trip.” Beidou laughed at Ningguang rolling her eyes. “There’s a shipment I need to take back to Inazuma anyway, so I figured I could bring back that Heizou boy on my return trip.”
“He’s a detective for the Tenryou Commission, they won’t let him go that easily,” Ningguang said, she was familiar with most of the people employed under the Tenryou Commission. During the Vision Hunt Decree, Ningguang made it a point to gather all the information she could gather on them. She didn’t want to let them into the country if they were chasing a runaway vision holder.
She finished the tea and poured the steaming hot liquid into their cups. “I could write and request his presence for a disturbance from an Inazuman?”
“If you could do that, it’d be great. I don’t want the kid to work though, so try to keep it neutral. Maybe those two can realize they can travel together after this.” Beidou added entirely too much sugar to her tea for Ningguang’s preference, but it seemed to relax the Captain quickly.
“Now, how do you propose I keep Kazuha from coming along?” Ningguang enjoyed this specific brew of tea the most. It wasn’t as pricey as some others her assistants would use, but it had all the right notes for her.
“Lumine is about to leave for Sumeru,” Beidou recalled with a snap. “Kazuha always tries to help her when he can so maybe she can keep him busy for a while.”
“That is true, Kazuha is entirely too selfless for his own good sometimes.” Ningguang set down her cup gently. “Consider it done. I will inform Paimon and Lumine tomorrow morning. I’m sure they’ll enjoy helping out.”
“I sure hope so.”
– – –
“Hello, Captain Beidou,” Kujou Sara stood with Heizou. “As his supervisor, I’m simply here to make sure he gets onboard. Please send my regards to the Tianquan, and I apologize in advance for any ruckus Shikanoin Heizou may cause.”
“Hey!” Heizou looked at her exasperatedly. “I’ll have you know I can do my job when asked.”
“Whatever you say, Detective. I assume he is the only passenger you’re picking up? Kaedehara left with you last time, correct?”
“Sure thing, Madame Kujou. Lumine is getting ready to head on to her next nation, so Kazuha has been helping her tie up loose ends.” Beidou slung an arm over Heizou’s shoulder once he stepped on board. “Keep that mouth of yours shut until we set sail.”
That was all Heizou needed to hear to confirm his suspicions.
“Have a safe journey, Captain. Enjoy Liyue as well, Detective.”
Sara and her subordinates marched back into the city, leaving Heizou grinning at Beidou.
“Alright, kid, Kazuha doesn’t know about this trip,” Beidou says. “He was moping the entire time as we returned to Liyue, so I decided then and there to get your ass into Liyue somehow. Ningguang agreed to help me out, so there's a case in Liyue regarding an Inazuman now.”
“Seems my intuition hasn’t led me astray yet,” Heizou grinned softly. “I’ve never had the pleasure of visiting Liyue, so it’s as nice a surprise for me as it will be for Kazuha.”
Beidou slapped him on the back, a hearty laugh drowning out the chatter of her crewmates.
“Kazuha is a selfless kid, and you are too. You’re forever putting everyone else before yourselves. Maybe this trip can do both of you some good,” Beidou glanced around while directing Heizou into a lived-in cabin. “If you feel like helping out some of the deckhands, then they’ll direct you to some easy solo jobs. However, make yourself at home. In just a few days you’ll get to see Liyue with your own eyes.”
– – –
“Captain Beidou,” Kazuha called sharply when the Alcor docked in the harbor. “Why did you not tell me you were leaving?”
“Kiddo, it was a quick trip to and from. No need to get your panties in a twist,” Beidou chuckled at Kazuha’s flattened expression.
“Beidou…” Heizou could hear Kazuha’s voice trail off in uncertainty. “You know why I would’ve preferred to join you on a trip to Inazuma.”
“Maybe it was for the best since she was only there for a day or two before turning back around,” Lumine tried to console Kazuha. “It’s easier like this.”
Kazuha sighed loudly, drawing out the silence between the three.
“You’re right, Lumine. Thank you for the insight.”
“About that…” Beidou whistled, catching Heizou’s attention, and beckoned him over with her hand. “I may have brought back what you wished to see.”
Heizou was awestruck by Liyue, but seeing Kazuha was enough to make his heart race. Kazuha’s eyes widened and his lips parted in silent surprise.
“Detective!” Lumine called out, barreling into Heizou for a quick hug. “So this was Beidou’s plan?”
“It definitely was. I also have Lady Ningguang to thank for her assistance as well.” Heizou poked Lumine’s sides, earning giggles and slaps to his arm which definitely stung. Lumine didn’t get all the information when Ningguang told her what was happening, but she did have a vague idea it could lead to this outcome.
“I’ll leave you two to catch up,” Lumine whispered, ruffling Kazuha’s hair as she walked by. “Paimon and I will be at Wangshu Inn if you decide to head out that way.”
Kazuha and Heizou continued staring at each other, the ronin seemingly unable to wrap his head around the situation. Heizou walked up to him slowly, brushing his fingers across Kazuha’s cheek.
“I’ve come to visit, my lovely ronin,” Heizou couldn’t help but smile at being close to Kazuha once again.
“You… left Inazuma,” Kazuha whispered. “You’ve come to visit Liyue?”
“Liyue is a nice addition to you,” Heizou cupped Kazuha’s cheeks pressing their lips together in a sweet and soft kiss. Kazuha brought him in for a tight hug when they could no longer kiss through their shared smiles.
“I assume you’d like something to eat?” Kazuha said, nuzzling into Heizou’s neck. Heizou couldn’t help the laughter that bubbled up in his chest.
“Of course. I didn’t think you’d be so affectionate, Zuzu. I don’t mind, but you usually don’t initiate.” Heizou wanted to press his hands into Kazuha’s skin, just the warmth of being so close is sweet enough for now.
“I didn’t realize how much I missed you already,” Kazuha whispered into his neck. His lips brushed against Heizou’s skin.
“I missed you, too. Now, let’s get something to eat before I pass out.”
– – –
“Hi, Kazuha! Want your usual?” A bubbly girl said from behind the counter, she quickly noticed Heizou by his side. “A guest! Welcome to Wanmin Restuarant, I’m Xiangling and I’ll be the chef for today.”
“Lovely to meet you, Xiangling. Please, just call me Heizou. I’m a first-time visitor from Inazuma and Kazuha spoke highly of your restaurant.” Heizou was growing increasingly famished just from the delicious smell from the kitchen.
“I’m fine with the usual, Xiangling. Heizou here likes anything fried.” Kazuha said. Xiangling lit up immediately at the information.
“You’ll love Golden Shrimp Balls, consider them ‘on the house’ since it’s your first time in Liyue.” Xiangling scratched down the orders on her notepad before turning back to them. “Anything else?”
“An extra dish of your choosing, Xiangling. I’ll pay for whatever it is, I don’t mind. It’s not often I’m in the harbor either, and you’re cooking is divine.” Kazuha pulled out his pouch of mora, already counting what he knew he’d need for his own meal.
“Hmm, it’s starting to get cold outside so I’ll whip up a stew for you two!” Xiangling totaled up their order, and Kazuha gave her a generous tip on top of the payment.
“She’s a phenomenal cook despite being such a young teenager,” Kazuha chose a table for them to sit at that was near a storyteller. “I’m sure we will also see some other friends of mine while we are here.”
“The restaurant smelled amazing. I’m looking forward to whatever she puts on the table.” Heizou moved his chair closer to Kazuha for now. “You don’t come to the harbor much?”
“Not particularly. It’s beautiful and lively, but the crowds aren’t my style. It’s nice to enjoy the energy from time to time, but I’m often by the sea or in the mountains.” Kazuha intertwined their fingers. Heizou glanced down, smiling softly at the affection.
“You’ll have to show me some sights. I can probably get by with being here for about a week before Sara gets suspicious,” Heizou looked around at the bustling harbor. Street vendors selling various items kept people engaged, and storytellers or performers provided entertainment. It was quite different from Inazuma’s main city.
“Of course. You can stay in the room I’ve rented out for while, it’ll be nice to spend some extra time with you.” Kazuha said, but the tips of his ears turning pink revealed the shyness of his words. Heizou grinned broadly, tucking Kazuha’s hair behind his ears and pecking his cheek.
“You’re cute when you’re shy, Zuzu.”
“Oh? Is this a reunion date? Wait, I can throw together a dessert for you as well,” Xiangling rambled as she set their food down. “I’ll make it extra special!”
“Wait- Let me pay?” Kazuha stood up to call after her, but the girl was already getting to work in the kitchen. “She’s a sweet kid.”
“You say that like she’s decades younger than you,” Heizou laughed, squeaking suddenly when Kazuha pinched the inside of his thigh. “Hey! No naughty actions in public or I might just have to arrest you.”
“Mhm. I’d like to see you try,” Kazuha leaned in, eyes staring straight through Heizou’s composed facade. “You’re quite fond of those handcuffs anyway. I’m surprised you’ve never brought them out-”
“Kazuha! It’s been quite some time, buddy!” Heizou watched Kazuha’s eyes widen when he glanced at the person approaching. Kazuha leaned away, clearing his throat. “Who’s this fella?”
“Xinyan, it’s lovely to see you again. I hope your concerts have been going well?” Kazuha said. “You can have a seat if you’d like.”
“I won’t be long, Yun Jin told me to meet her around here. Since I was early and saw you, figured I’d pop on over for a chat.”
“I see. This is Heizou, a detective from Inazuma as well as my partner.” Xinyan’s smile was much brighter than Heizou could’ve expected.
“It’s nice to see you’ve got someone by your side. You’re quite a solitary guy, Kazuha.” Xinyan turned her attention to Heizou. “I’m Xinyan! Born and raised in Liyue and a musician; rock and roll is my specialty to be precise.”
“You must hear her music before you leave for Inazuma, as well as Yun Jin who’s a classical opera singer. Both are fantastic.” Kazuha said. Heizou found Xinyan’s style to be expressive and unique, he was always thrilled to see someone being true to themselves.
“Xinyan!” Another girl called out. Heizou could see her intricate bonnet and dress rustling in the soft breeze. “Let’s head on out.”
“Alright, Yun Jin, I’ll be right over,” Xinyan ruffled Kazuha’s hair quickly, stealing a portion of fried meat before sauntering away at top speed. Heizou laughed at Kazuha’s expression.
“She’s lively, when did you meet?”
“A month or so ago, Xinyan and I decided to travel to Mondstadt together where we were brought away into more adventures. She wanted to chase a lead involving a festival she was participating in and I couldn’t deny the invitation to go to Mondstadt.” Kazuha thanked Xiangling as she silently left the dessert on the table. “Then afterward, we ran into two Mondstadtian ladies who were looking for some help. They’re both quite the characters but very kind. You would like them as well.”
“Guess I’ll have to visit Mondstadt one day too,” Heizou laughed, but his heart grew heavy. Every moment he was away, there was potentially a crime happening in his homeland. He attempted to tamp down the feeling, and instead, focus on his gorgeous boyfriend who was diving into the food before them.
Maybe a vacation every now and then can’t hurt.
– – –
Kazuha didn’t let go of Heizou’s hand during their entire walk back to Kazuha’s rented room. The shared silence between them was comforting and warm. They were able to exist in such silence together due to their mutual understanding of one another; two independent people came together to form a cohesive pairing.
Heizou watched as Kazuha fumbled with the key to the door slightly, but opened it without issue. Heizou’s now free hands rested on Kazuha’s waist, pushing him into the room with little force. Heizou wasn’t able to get a good look at the room before Kazuha had turned around in his hold and locked his arms around Heizou’s neck.
“Today was nice, Detective. It feels rather surreal.” Kazuha leaned in, stealing a quick kiss with a smile. “Your company is always rejuvenating.”
“I relax completely when I’m with you. It’s nice to see we benefit each other nicely,” Heizou pulled Kazuha closer, pressing their bodies together. The slight chill in the room did not compare to the warmth of their embrace. “I love you, Kazuha.”
“I love you too, Heizou.” Kazuha connected their lips once again, pushing Heizou into the door. His hands cradled the other’s face tenderly, pouring his feelings into the kiss as much as possible. The love he felt for Heizou, the desire, attraction, as well as happiness. Heizou parted his lips the moment Kazuha pressed his tongue to the seam of his lips.
They weren’t unfamiliar with each other by any means. Heizou and Kazuha knew what made the other’s knees buckle and moan loudly. So with their knowledge of one another, it did not take long for their desire to grow uncontrollable.
The two explored each other’s bodies without reservation, enjoying the time they had together and making it memorable. Bite marks and bruises served as a tangible reminder for days to come. When their energy was depleted and they slipped under the blankets, the starry sky and chilly breeze soothed their minds.
“I’m glad you’re able to be here for a while, Heizou,” Kazuha mumbled into Heizou’s shoulder. The two were wrapped up in one another’s embrace, limbs entangled rather gracelessly. “I’m sure you were due a vacation.”
“I was,” Heizou chuckled. “Maybe I can occasionally join you in some traveling. If my performance rate as a detective improves I’ll probably be forced on vacation more often.”
Heizou didn’t get a response, but he noticed Kazuha’s breathing had slowed down. A small smile pulled at Heizou’s lips, holding Kazuha closer to himself.
“I love you, my sweet ronin. May we overcome any obstacle in our path together and move forward to our own eternity.”