Chapter Text
To Zhongli, Baizhu was like summer. His intense green hair looked like lush forests, eyes sparkled similarly to the bright sun and the characteristic herbal scent of his skin reminded Morax of meadows filled with aromatic flowers and herbs. Unfortunately, the beauty of summer is short-lived, only to unexpectedly give way to a gloomy autumn and eventually winter, during which all life froze. This is exactly what happened to the doctor from Liyue, making his lover's heart shatter into tiny pieces.
However, Zhongli had absolutely no idea about Baizhu serious condition for a fairly long time. Throughout the years, the herbalist practically mastered the art of hiding his illness. Every day, even if his whole body was overwhelmed by weakness and pain, he didn't give up his morning routine. He brewed green tea, made breakfast for himself and Changsheng and braided his hair. Then he would get to work. He spent all day preparing medicine and examining patients, not wanting to let down people in need. The only thing he was incapable of doing was to admit that he himself needed help. The doctor managed to successfully deceive everyone, even the Geo Archon himself.
Zhongli never forgot the day they first met. It was supposed to be completely ordinary, but it turned out life-changing, although he was completely unaware of it at the beginning. He visited the Bubu Pharmacy alongside with Aether in order to purchase the Everlasting Incense. It was an essential ingredient for the Rite of Parting, yet Morax couldn't find it anywhere. The Pharmacy was his last resort. Inside, there was quite a surprise awaiting them, namely a small zombie girl called Qiqi. She promised to give them what they needed for a small favor - they were requested to get milk from a mysterious adeptibeast Cocogoat. However, the expedition failed, as there were no signs of the said beast. Eventually it turned out that the milk Qiqi was so obsessed about, actually comes from a coconut, not an animal! Both men laughed their heads off. This unusual mission made them forget about the incense for a while. Suddenly, they heard some footsteps just behind them. Zhongli turned around, and before his eyes appeared the most beautiful human being he has seen in his unnaturally long life. Stunning, flowy hair, heavily ornamented clothing, ruby eyes, snake wrapped around his neck, and - most importantly - hypnotizing smile. The Archon found it very cute, that not only the man's lips smiled, but also his eyes.
- Hello, everyone. My name is Baizhu, I'm the boss of the Bubu Pharmacy. How can I help you? - for a moment, Zhongli was rendered speechless. The man's voice was smooth and warm, just like a cozy blanket. Aether's sudden scream snapped him out of his daze. The Traveller got scared of Baizhu's snake, especially when he discovered it actually could speak.
- Haha, there's no need to be afraid. Her name is Changsheng, she's my little serpent friend. She's actually very friendly, but moody at the same time. And she loves food more than everything. So, next time, remember to bring her something.
- What are you even thinking? I'm not a glutton or anything like that! It is you who should eat more - Changsheng snorted and flicked her tongue at the pharmacist, pretending to be offended.
Soon the meeting turned into a friendly, light-hearted chat over tea and snacks, which lasted until the late evening. Fortunately, they did not leave empty-handed, even if they had to pay quite a lot. Morax didn't regret anything though. It was not the incense which mattered to him the most at the moment. Although the busy day completely exhausted him, he couldn't fall asleep for some reason, and this reason was Baizhu. The doctor didn't want to leave his head. Zhongli dreamed about his beautiful face, voice and smile. They made his heart skip a beat. It's been a long time since he was so fascinated by anyone. Despite the passage of time, he understood these feelings perfectly. Last time he felt like that in Guizhong's presence. After her death he promised himself not to fall in love again. But apparently it was happening, whether he wished for it or not.
***
Over the next few days Zhongli made up all sorts of excuses to visit the Bubu Pharmacy and see the man of his dreams. He brought fresh herbs he had picked, coconut milk for Qiqi or food for Changsheng. To his disappointment, every time he arrived, he was greeted by herbalist Gui, who repeated his standard phrase again and again.
- Nice to see you, Mr. Zhongli. Unfortunately, Master Baizhu is very busy right now. Should I tell him something?
The Archon had to think about a better tactic. Finally he came up with an old, proven but embarrassing solution. He decided to pretend to have a strong headache. He walked into the pharmacy, swaying slightly and keeping his palm on his forehead. The show he performed seemed to work. Gui looked concerned and ushered him to the examination room, which occurred to be Baizhu's private apartment. Zhongli was struck by the simplicity of the room. There were no decorations, only a narrow bed, basic furniture, Changsheng's perch and a collection of medicine. He sat at the edge of the bed, watching mesmerized as the green-haired doctor grated the herbs and then prepared an infusion of them. He was humming quietly during his work. Morax recognized a traditional melody, played and sung in Liyue for centuries. Sweet sounds of Baizhu's voice instantly warmed the Archon's heart. He was so lost in thoughts that he barely noticed when Baizhu approached him with a cup of steaming liquid.
- Thank you, I really appreciate your help - he smiled at the pharmacist, taking a small sip. The herbal tea tasted bitter, but refreshing. For a few minutes none of them spoke, the two men were just looking at each other. The silence became really uncomfortable, Zhongli wanted desperately to break it, but he was at loss for words. For a split second a sudden thought to confess his feelings appeared in his mind, but it vanished instantly.
- I..I feel much better. I should go now, work awaits me - Morax stuttered and stood up rapidly, far too nervously for his liking.
- Great to hear - Baizhu gave him a piercing look and a sarcastic smile appeared on his face - However, it seems to me that you did not have a headache at all, did you?
The Archon gritted his teeth. He was exposed, yet he still refused to admit it.
- That's not true, my head did hurt. Too much stress, my boss is getting on my nerves recently.
- Hu Tao? This kind, cheerful girl? She's not like that. Besides, I'm a doctor, so please don't question my diagnosis - the herbalist chuckled.
- I'm sorry, Baizhu. I really need to go now. See you next time and thanks for the tea! - Zhongli left the Pharmacy in a hurry. Gods, his cheeks were burning. The Geo Archon reduced to a mumbling, embarrassed mess. It truly defies all logic what love can do to a person.
***
Night fell, and the starry sky lulled Liyue to sleep. Except Baizhu, who stayed up, thinking about a weird encounter with Zhongli. He was unable to decipher his strange behavior.
- Are you still awake? Go to sleep or you'll feel unwell tomorrow, how many times do I have to remind you that? - Changsheng hissed at her owner, scolding him.
- It's not so easy. Zhongli puzzles me. Why did he fake his headache? And why is he visiting us so often?
The serpent left her perch and slithered on Baizhu's bed, looking at him with her glowing eyes.
- I thought you had already figured that out. He likes you.
- I've noticed it, I like him too, to be honest. But why did he go this far? After all, we could have a little chat after work or something - the man failed to understand what the snake truly meant.
- Baizhu, you silly one! - Changsheng's annoyance grew with every passing second - You have to see an eye doctor, as you are totally blind! Don't you see that Zhongli treats you like more than a friend? He loves you!
Loves? Him, of all people? Is he really worth it? He is not even sure if he is capable of love and would be able to reciprocate Zhongli's feelings. Moreover, Zhongli is strong, handsome and elegant, whereas Baizhu is nobody else, than a feeble, sickly man, unable to cure himself despite his profession. Truly pathetic.
- Are you alright, Baizhu? - Changsheng seemed concerned by his silence - What's on your mind?
The doctor sighed sadly and revealed the cause of his anxiety. Although he could hide it, it would surely eat him alive sooner or later. Upon hearing everything, the serpent's eyes softened.
- Don't say such things, Baizhu. Believe in yourself. You are kind, gentle, compassionate and have a great sense of humor. You are beautiful in your own way, remember it. When I say Zhongli has warm feelings towards you, I mean it. So, what do you think about him?
- I..don't know, honestly. At the one hand, I think that he is different than everyone else I've met so far, of course in a positive way. At the other, I've never fallen in love, so I don't know how it's like - conflicting feelings made Baizhu even more confused.
- But will you talk to him?
- Yes, I will do it tomorrow if he visits me - it was not an empty promise. His snake's words left a seed of hope in his heart, for a better, colorful life. In order to give his owner a bit of comfort, Changsheng lay next to him, letting him stroke her smooth scales. It helped Baizhu to finally fall asleep.
***
Not only him made an important decision that night. The Geo Archon also promised himself to meet Baizhu and confess his feelings to him, as he couldn't keep it hidden anymore. When the time came, he gathered a wonderful bouquet comprised of Glaze Lilies and Qingxins. He did not forget to pick some Violetgrass either, as they seemed to be the herbalist's favorite flowers. As the evening came and Baizhu was done with his work, Morax found himself knocking at his door, palms sweaty from nervousness. He kept repeating in his head what he was going to say, but at the sight of the doctor he completely forgot everything.
- Hello, Baizhu - he tried to sound confident despite his racing heart - I hope I'm not bothering you. I need to talk to you for a while.
- I also wanted to tell you something - the man looked at the bouquet in Zhongli's hand - Thank you for the flowers, they look beautiful - he smiled softly and put them in a vase - Please, take a seat, I'll prepare something for you, you must be hungry.
- There's no need, don't trouble yourself - the Archon didn't want to exploit Baizhu's hospitality and politely refused, but the pharmacist already disappeared in the kitchen. He returned after a while with a bottle of wine and a plate of Almond Tofu.
- Look what I have! Osmanthus Wine, your favorite, am I right? - he grinned brightly.
Zhongli couldn't resist the temptation and took a sip for courage. A wonderful, slightly sweet flavor filled his mouth and a feeling of warmth spread through his whole body.
- A truly exquisite wine, indeed.
Baizhu sat next to his companion, but didn't drink or eat anything. He got straight to the point, succeeding to suppress the hesitation he was feeling.
- I've observed you from the first day I met you and I noticed your unusual behavior. You seem to enjoy visiting me for whatever reason and you always find some new excuses. Can you tell me what is the meaning behind it?
- Baizhu, I... - Morax felt like his tongue had tied itself in a tight knot. He was Rex Lapis, the Geo Archon, after all! He fought in many wars, defeated countless enemies and yet a sincere conversation with an ordinary pharmacist proved to be too difficult for him.
"Come on, Zhongli. Deep breaths. You can do it" - he tried to calm himself down, then finally spoke:
- I...had a reason for everything I've been doing so far. I had no idea it would ever happen to me, but...I think I love you, Baizhu - Morax reached for the other man's hands, wanting to hold them, but withdrew immediately. The last thing he wanted was to scare him off.
The doctor didn't respond, he was just staring at him with eyes wide open. He was totally shocked. Changsheng was right. Zhongli really fell in love with him.
- What's wrong? You don't feel the same, is it true? I'm sorry for bothering you, I should go now - although the Archon didn't expect Baizhu to love him back, it still hurt somehow. He was about to leave, but the pharmacist grabbed his sleeve, attempting to keep him in place.
- Zhongli, please, stay. I didn't mean that. I've never been in a relationship before and I have no idea how is it like and it makes me scared and confused. I just need some time to think everything through - he explained.
- So is there any chance for us? - Zhongli felt a glimmer of hope. Maybe not everything is lost.
- Of course. The door of my pharmacy is always open. You can come anytime. We should get to know each other better - Baizhu stood up to escort Zhongli to the exit, but at the moment he raised his body, he got very dizzy. Dark spots blurred his vision and legs gave out under him. He would have collapsed if strong arms had not caught him.
- Baizhu! What's going on?! - the Archon put his beloved man delicately on the bed.
- Forgive me. It is because of those conflicting emotions. This whole situation has really stressed me out - the doctor whispered.
- Don't blame yourself. It's me who should be more considerate. Rest well, Baizhu, and take your time. I'll be always waiting for you. Do you need something? Should I bring you some water? - Zhongli felt guilty. If he had known that it would be so difficult for Baizhu he would not have pressed the issue.
- No, thanks. I actually feel much better now. I'm very glad we explained everything to each other. We will see what the future brings us.
***
To Zhongli's content, the future brought them nothing but love and wonderful memories, at least at the beginning. The feeling of affection began to slowly bloom between the two men with each day spent together. Morax' regular visits at the pharmacy became a kind of routine, but the Archon wanted to break it and go a step further.
- Baizhu, why are we sitting inside day after day when the weather is perfect for going out? Let's take a stroll, shall we?
- Are you asking me out for a date? I'd love that, but I don't feel like walking today - Zhongli noticed that the pharmacist blushed slightly.
- Well, you could say that - the Archon smiled at him - I see that you're tired, but fresh air will make you feel better. We won't go somewhere far away, I promise. Don't make me beg you, Baizhu.
The doctor hesitated a bit, but eventually agreed. The late afternoon at Liyue Harbor was lovely. The sun was shining brightly, the gentle breeze from the seaside soothed from the heat, birds chirped cheerfully.
- Good afternoon, Doctor Baizhu and Mr. Zhongli! - a happy, childish voice surprised the two men. They turned back and noticed Yaoyao, a little girl who lives with the Adepti.
- Hello, Yaoyao! Nice to see you here. What are you doing? - the Archon asked.
- Aunty Cloud Retainer told me to pick some fresh herbs for Miss Ganyu. I also want to see how Miss Shenhe is doing. Did you know that she moved to the city? Anyway, I'm very surprised to see you outside, Doctor Baizhu! Are you feeling better?
Baizhu started sweating nervously, feeling a sudden warmth on his cheeks. Of course, he appreciated Yaoyao's kindness very much, but he didn't want the girl to reveal his well hidden secret by accident. He had to change the topic quickly.
- Yes, I am, thank you for your concern. What a cute bunny you have right there! - he pointed at the basket on the kid's back - What is its name?
- He's Yuegui, I love playing with him! - the girl took the bunny out of her basket and hugged him, then looked around - It's getting late, I've got to go. Hope to see you again! - she ran off, waving them goodbye.
- Bye bye Yaoyao, take care! Say hello to Ganyu and Shenhe from us! - Zhongli responded and turned to Baizhu - I had no idea that you've been feeling unwell recently. If I had known, I would not have insisted on taking a walk.
- No, there's absolutely no problem, really! - the herbalist denied - Yaoyao just saw me when I had a rough day at work and was stressed out a lot. I'm feeling fine now.
Morax looked Baizhu deep in the eyes, took the pharmacist's hands into his own and started rubbing them affectionately with his fingertips. His expression was serious.
- Be honest with me, please. If there's anything bothering you, just tell me about it. I'll gladly help you out. You can always trust me.
- I know, Zhongli, but I don't want you to worry over some minor issues. True, I've been experienced many difficulties before I met you, but now everything's different. I don't feel so anxious as before when I have you by my side - the man confessed, making the Archon's heart melt.
- Alright then. Follow me, Baizhu, I've prepared many surprises for you - the Archon led him to a jewelry store.
- Hello, what can I do for you?
- Hello, Madam, is my last order ready? - Zhongli greeted the shopkeeper.
- Of course, Mr. Zhongli. Give me a second, I'll be right back - the woman brought a small box and handed it to her client.
- Thank you, Madam - he gave her a heavy-looking pouch of Mora - Baizhu, open the box.
Inside there was a pair of golden, intricate hairpins with emeralds. The doctor gasped in awe, his eyes glistening.
- Do you like them? - Morax asked.
- Of course, they are so beautiful...
- When I saw them I thought of you right away. Now, allow me - he put them delicately in his beloved man's hair and turned him towards a mirror - Look Baizhu, what a gorgeous man you are. They totally suit you. That's why I want to gift them to you.
- I..I can't keep them. They are too expensive - the doctor sighed sadly and started to take the hairpins off, but Zhongli stopped him.
- No, I insist. Money isn't the most important thing. What matters to me is to see you happy. So, if you don't accept my gift, you'll sadden me. Do you want it?
Baizhu didn't. Therefore, he kept the hairpins, wondering why Zhongli was so willing to spend so much Mora on him. He wasn't the most generous person in Liyue after all. Maybe it really was because of love? They walked around a bit, but the pharmacist insisted on making another pause very soon.
- Look, Zhongli, the sun is about to set. Let's sit down and admire this wonderful view.
Wonderful? The Archon walked those streets so many times and didn't see anything special in them. They were always so crowded and noisy. He preferred natural landscapes, untouched by human hand. However, as they sat on the terrace, he had to admit that Baizhu was actually right. The sky was an amazing mixture of gold, pink and purple, the last sun rays were reflecting in the surface of the ocean, waves hummed quietly. A truly romantic landscape.
- Liyue Harbor is exceptionally beautiful today. But nothing in the whole Teyvat can compare to your beauty - Zhongli confessed, as the atmosphere of that evening affected him. Unconsciously, he began playing with strand of green hair.
- Do you really think so? - Baizhu found it hard to believe. He never though of himself as attractive. He was too thin, too pale, too fragile, with no trace of muscles. And yet, Zhongli couldn't take his eyes off him.
- You are perfect to me - Zhongli gently grazed his fingers over Baizhu's cheek. The doctor flinched slightly, but didn't protest and let the man caress his skin. It actually felt nice, so he leaned into his touch even more.
- Can I kiss you? - the Archon's question was totally unexpected. The herbalist felt anxious, but in the depths of his heart he wanted this to happen. He dreamt about it every night.
- Sure, go ahead - there was no other option than to agree.
Soon, the men's lips connected in a passionate kiss. Zhongli gasped into it, his tongue exploring every inch of his lover. Baizhu tasted like wine, sweet and intoxicating. Soon the burning need for oxygen made them take a break. The Archon admired the doctor's blushed cheeks, swollen lips and eyes clouded with pure bliss.
- I can now say it with certainty. I love you, Zhongli. You have completely changed my life. So I wish to share it with you.
- My love, my sun, my everything - Morax left little sweet kisses on the pharmacist's milklike skin. The whole world ceased to exist for him. However, unpleasant rumbling in his stomach brought him back to reality - I'm sorry to interrupt this wonderful moment, but it's time for another surprise. The Archon invited his lover to Wanmin Restaurant for a dinner. Soon on the table appeared all kinds of Liyue specialties like Jade Parcels, Golden Crab, Almond Tofu or Bamboo Shoot Soup. Emotions connected to the first kiss made Zhongli totally forget about food, but now hunger hit him with a full force. He ate ravenously, relishing the exquisite taste of the dishes. It took him some time to notice that Baizhu barely touched the food, only nibbling a little.
- What's wrong, love? - this sight concerned him - Don't you like the taste?
- On the contrary, everything is absolutely delicious. I'm just not used to eat a lot - the pharmacist explained.
- But I've seen you cook so many times and you are really good at it. Don't tell me that everything you prepare is for Qiqi. She's just a little girl, and a zombie on top of that.
- Actually Changsheng eats most of it. She loves food above all - Baizhu chuckled.
- But you must eat more. You work very hard every day, so you need energy - the Archon remained stubborn.
- I'm fully aware of that. The problem is, I'm rarely hungry and I can't help it. Most of the dishes is simply too heavy for me and makes me nauseous.
- So, let's make a contract. I'll visit you every day and make you something easy to digest. You'll eat it nicely. That way you won't faint again, at least not on my watch. Deal?
- Alright, mom - the doctor rolled his eyes with annoyance - You and your contracts. I promise I'll be a good boy and eat everything up, but now let's talk about something else - he sighed.
- I won't tease you anymore, I swear. But now, you have to eat some soup if you're not in the mood for anything solid. Open up, or else I'll be forced to feed you.
- Zhongli!! - Baizhu's face became red like a beetroot.
The rest of their date passed in an excellent, romantic atmosphere. However, the events in the restaurant planted a seed of anxiety in Zhongli's heart. The man didn't expect that in a few days it will grow in a full bloom.
***
It was a warm, sunny and cloudless summer day. Nothing foreshadowed the disaster that was to come very soon. Baizhu had a day free from work, so Morax nagged him to set out for a longer walk.
- Come on, the weather is gorgeous today! We are spending all our dates inside, except the one at Liyue Harbor. There is a certain place I'd love to show you. We can also gather some herbs on our way there.
- But this is Qiqi's job. There's no need for us to do that...
Excuses. Another excuses. Although the Archon loved the doctor with every inch of his soul, he slowly became fed up with his stubbornness.
- Qiqi is working hard, just like you. She needs some break, she's still a little kid after all. Besides, just look at yourself, Baizhu! You are a Dendro user, yet you are avoiding nature at all costs! No wonder you feel so weak.
This time the herbalist relented again, knowing that any arguments with Zhongli are a losing battle for him. They set out, wandering towards the picturesque Luhua Pool. Morax helped Baizhu pick some Mint, Sweet Flowers and Horsetail, the latter being unique to this area. The pharmacist was really grateful to his lover for the idea of going out. He enjoyed the sight of crystal clear water around them, their idle talk and a scent of fresh flowers in the air. Unfortunately, fatigue overcame him all of a sudden. He felt like he was about to faint. He couldn't let that happen, not in front of Zhongli. He sat on the green grass, pretending to admire the scenery, trying to fight off his dizziness.
- You're about to collapse, aren't you? - asked Changsheng, coiled around his neck.
- Shut it, Changsheng! Zhongli can't find out about it! - the herbalist hissed, scared that his secret may be revealed in the least expected moment.
- As you wish, I won't bother you anymore! - the snake sounded offended, but in reality she was really worried about her owner's deteriorating health - But I think you shouldn't hide the truth from Zhongli. He loves you and trust is the basis of the relationship.
- I know, I just need more time. I don't want to worry him yet - Baizhu stopped talking, as he heard the grass rustling. Zhongli came to him and put something on his head. A flower crown.
- A beautiful crown for my prince - the man smiled, sitting next to his partner and kissing him on the cheek. Unfortunately, this blissful moment was interrupted suddenly by a group of Treasure Hoarders.
- Who do we have here? A pair of lovebirds! I'm sorry to spoil your date, but you're sitting on our territory - one of the Hoarders laughed, showing his broken teeth.
Morax turned around and looked him in the eyes. Although the men were armed, he kept his composure and said calmly:
- As far as I know, it is a public property and everyone can come here as they wish. You have no right to bother us. Just walk away, nobody needs to get hurt.
- You are threatening me? Or maybe you want the treasure? We won't let you lay your hands on it, over my dead body! - these words enraged the Hoarder even more.
- I'm not interested in any treasure. We came here to enjoy the nature, that's all - the Archon wanted to relieve the tense situation.
- Don't lie to us - another bandit approached them - To hell with the treasure, you look pretty rich. Show us, what do you have in your pockets? - he grabbed Baizhu, wanting to search him, but Changsheng darted and sunk her sharp teeth in the man's palm. He screamed, shaking the hand in order to throw the serpent off himself.
- It hurts! Guys, help me! - another Hoarders rushed to his rescue. One of them grabbed the snake, wanting to get rid of it.
- Changsheng, no!! Leave her alone, please! - Baizhu was horrified, tears streamed down his face.
- Oh, so it has a name? Look, what I will do with your beloved pet... - the evil man was about to kill the snake, but unexpectedly a polearm flew towards him, hitting him right in the face with its blunt edge. Changsheng took advantage of the situation and escaped, hiding in the bushes.
- I offered you to leave us in peace, but you didn't listen. I will give you one last chance, know my good heart - Morax picked up his weapon and looked at the aggressor, who was pinching his broken nose.
- You will pay for that. Get them! - a fight broke off. Zhongli called upon the powers of Geo and put the protective shield around himself and Baizhu. The bandits threw burning torches, some kind of weapons charged with electricity and fistfuls of sand towards them, but despite their best efforts they were no match to the Vision wielders. Morax was keeping his eye on the doctor for the entire time, but, surprisingly, the green-haired man was fighting pretty well. With the help of his catalyst he created streams of Dendro energy, which slithered towards the enemies like snakes, hitting them and returning to Baizhu. His element seemed to strengthen him, making him quicker and more efficient. However, all of a sudden, he collapsed on the ground, completely unmoving. His shield disappeared.
- Baizhu!!! - Zhongli shouted, running towards him.
The Hoarder was faster. He picked up the unconscious man, took of a dagger and pressed it lightly on his neck, drawing blood. Crimson drops spilled down the herbalist's skin, soaking into his clothes.
- Give up, hand me over your Mora and both of your Visions, or else you won't see him alive anymore.
- You'll regret this - rage blinded Zhongli, filling his entire body. His eyes and hair began emitting an amber glow - This is order! - the skies opened up and a meteor hit the ground out of nowhere. It didn't kill the bandits, but effectively scared them away. They abandoned their weapons, running away and screaming. Morax didn't care about them though. He kneeled by his lover's side. Changsheng was already checking on him.
- Thankfully, he's breathing - she informed.
The Archon scanned his partner's body for potential injuries, but the didn't find anything, neither a cut nor burn. Even the small cut on his neck has already healed, thanks to Dendro Vision. So why was he in such a condition? Zhongli grabbed the man's wrist in search for a pulse. It was there, but too faint for his liking.
- Baizhu, love, wake up...-he slapped the doctor's cheek lightly, trying to help him regain consciousness. After a few attempts Baizhu's crimson eyes opened, hazy and unfocused - You are safe now, I'm here with you - he gently stroke the pharmacist's face, soothing him.
- Zhongli? - the man seemed to come back to reality.
- Yes, that's me. You're doing so great, my sunshine - Morax praised him, leaving a little kiss on the top of his head - Can you try sitting up?
Baizhu nodded, so Zhongli pulled him up, hushing his pained gasps.
- Do you remember what happened? - it took a while for the doctor to remind himself the latest events.
- The Treasure Hoarders came. They wanted to rob us. A fight broke out and then...nothing.
- Were you hit? Did anyone injure you?
- No, I don't think so. I just felt very weak and blacked out. I'm so sorry, Zhongli. I'm just a burden to you - Baizhu hung his head low - If it were not for my condition, you would not have to defend me.
- Don't say things like that. You are like a precious treasure to me and it's my honor to protect you. Besides, I could easily defeat those bandits with my eyes closed - Zhongli laughed - Come on, let's get out of here. Can you stand up?
The herbalist nodded, but he was far too weak. Morax caught him in his arms.
- So I'll have to carry you, my prince.
Although Zhongli was extremely strong, being a Geo Archon, it still shocked him how light and bony his lover was. He carried him to the next teleport and they soon appeared in the Bubu Pharmacy, facing a worried Gui.
- What happened to him? Why can't he walk?
Morax explained the whole course of events after he put Baizhu gently on the bed.
- I'm not used to fighting, that's why it exhausted me so much - the doctor whispered.
- You fought?! But you shouldn't... - Gui opposed, biting his lip with anxiety.
- We were surrounded. Zhongli put a shield around me, so I wouldn't get wounded and took most of the fighting on himself. He protected me. I will be fine, Gui, I'm not made of glass. I just need to rest a bit.
- Alright Baizhu, sleep well - the Archon ran his hand through his partner's smooth hair - I'll be here tomorrow. I hope you'll feel better. Gui, Changsheng - take care of him.
- I will, Mr. Zhongli - promised the herbalist.
***
Unfortunately, fate proved to be cruel. Baizhu awoke in the middle of the night with sharp, burning pain all over his body. He felt as if he was set on fire. A loud shriek tore form his lips, alarming Changsheng.
- Baizhu, what's going on? - she slithered to him and, upon seeing his condition, rushed for Gui.
The doctor wasn't aware of his surroundings anymore, the only thing that existed for him was this horrible pain. He was shivering uncontrollably, fists clenched tightly, tears flowing freely down his face. The poor pharmacist bit on his bedsheet in order to stop himself from screaming.
- Come on, look at me, please - Gui attempted to get the suffering man's attention, but to no avail - Changsheng, watch over him, I'm gonna get Qiqi.
Thankfully, the zombie girl was in the pharmacy, so they came back quickly.
- What is happening to Baizhu? - although Qiqi's voice was as monotone as always, Gui noticed a hint of fear in it.
- Don't worry, honey, he'll be alright. Will you help him? - the herbalist tried to calm her down. The girl nodded.
- What shall Qiqi do? - she asked.
- Use your healing powers on him, but do it gently, so as not to hurt him more.
- Orders received - she unleashed her Elemental Burst, placing a special mark on Baizhu. It seemed to work, as the doctor visibly relaxed, stopped trembling and his breathing evened out.
- Thank you dear, you saved him - Gui rubbed Qiqi's head with affection - You deserve a big glass of coconut milk today. As she left to her room, he helped Baizhu sit up, propping him on a pillow and gave him medicine and some broth.
- Where's Zhongli? - the pharmacist still wasn't able to think clearly after his recent attack. His eyes were scanning the room in search for his lover. Gui failed to contain the feeling of jealousy. He was taking care of the severely ill man for so many years, and yet the first person he was looking for, was Zhongli. However, he could not be angry with him. This was the way his heart chose, and he had to accept it.
- It's nighttime, you should go back to sleep. He will come here in the morning. Until then, we will be by your side, don't worry - the herbalist comforted him. Thanks to the special herbal mixture, Baizhu fell asleep easily, free from pain. Gui knew that it will surely return in a few hours, but at least it will be bearable. For some time, he sat on a chair, looking the at sleeping pharmacist, with Changsheng coiled by his side.
***
When morning came, Zhongli arrived at the pharmacy, carrying a basket of fresh flowers for Baizhu. As always, the first person he met was Gui, but this time the herbalist looked very worried. Morax started feeling uneasy as well.
- Why do you look so nervous? What happened? Something with Baizhu?
- Take a seat, please - the man's expression was unusually serious - I have to tell you something important.
Zhongli obeyed. His palms already started sweating. How good it is that he wears gloves, at least this way he can hide his raging emotions.
- Baizhu's condition worsened overnight. He was in immense pain and we all began to panic seeing him like that. Glory be to Archons, he's a lot better today but still a little feverish.
Morax' eyes widened in shock.
- This can't be! He wasn't injured in battle, I checked it so carefully!
- It's not because he was fighting, at least not directly. He suffers from a chronic illness. He didn't tell you that, did he? - the herbalist inquired, seeing the clear surprise written all over Zhongli's face.
- No, he didn't. But why? - the Archon couldn't believe that his beloved person hid such a crucial information from him.
- It's best if he explains it to you himself, especially since you two seem close. You can see him now.
The Archon was about to scold Baizhu for not being honest with him, but he abandoned this idea as he saw the man in such a pitiful condition. Although he was conscious, his skin was white like snow and glistening with sweat and a deep frown scarred his beautiful facial features.
- Zhongli...you came...I missed you so much - his voice was so weak, only a little louder than a whisper.
- Yes, sweetheart, I'm here and I'm not going anywhere - Morax brushed a wet strand of hair from his boyfriend's face - It's okay, honey. You'll be fine - upon noticing a lone tear trail, he wiped it off with gentleness.
- Forgive me, my love. I'll understand if you don't want to see me anymore. I lied to you - Baizhu finally confessed.
- I would never leave you. You mean everything to me. It doesn't matter to me, you had your reasons for sure - the Archon assured his partner.
- I didn't want to worry you. I've had so many great moments with you and I had no intention to spoil it. I don't want your pity.
- How long? - Morax, being a down-to-earth and practical man, got straight to the point. He knew that his composure would help to distract his partner more than sweet nothings.
- I've been ill since my childhood years. At first it wasn't anything serious, but it started getting worse gradually - the pharmacist explained.
- What are the symptoms?
- Muscle weakness, dizziness, nausea and - worst of all - overwhelming pain. Most of the time it's bearable, but sometimes it just becomes too much to handle, making me lose control over my body.
Baizhu's words were like a blade to Zhongli's heart. This man was in pain almost the entire time they were together and yet he didn't show anything, didn't even flinch. Morax reminded himself of all their meetings and everything became crystal clear for him. The herbalist avoided spending time outside, excessive physical activity, didn't eat much and one day he fainted. Zhongli should have guessed the reason behind his behavior and be more considerate towards him.
- Don't blame yourself, my precious gem. You did nothing wrong. In fact, you cared for me like nobody else - Baizhu sensed his lover's feelings.
- How much time do you have left?
- Not so long, I suppose. My time's running out - the doctor was weirdly calm talking about his impending death - If the illness keeps progressing like that, maybe a year in the best case scenario.
Zhongli bit his lip hard, blood spilling on his chin. His worst nightmare came true. He barely came to terms with Guizhong's passing and now he's about to lose another love of his life. As an immortal being, he knew that any relationships with ordinary people would end painfully one day, but at least he hoped for many, many beautiful years with Baizhu. But now, his hopes shattered like thin glass. He couldn't let that happen.
- Shh, Zhongli, calm down - the pharmacist raised his shaking hand in an attempt to clean his lover's chin - I'm actually okay with that. It doesn't matter how many days I will live, as long as I spend every hour I have left with you.
- I won't let you die like this. There has to be a cure. I'll find it for you, even if I have to turn the whole Teyvat upside down.
- I'm afraid it's not possible. I sacrificed my whole life to search for the cure. This was my main motivation to become a doctor. I've read so many books, consulted so many scientists, including Sumeru's famous scholars, and yet I failed. There are no written records of my condition, I don't even know it's name. I've helped a lot of people, but I cannot help myself - Baizhu sighed with resignation.
- I won't give up, no matter what. This is my contract with you and, as you know, I never break them - Zhongli swore and sealed his promise with a tender, yet passionate kiss.