[Guizhong/Zhongli] I kiss you blush...

[moradigging]

[it was always a pleasure when any one of the adepti would come to him to show off their discoveries, whether it was found, or created. it brought him even greater joy to sit and listen as they prattled on about their wares, about Cloud Retainer’s and Guizhong’s creations, or Sea Gazer’s newest find. but nothing could ever beat the entertainment he got out of watching the two former adepti protest in envy as his attention would find itself on the latter’s treasure. what could he say, there was history there.

however, Guizhong’s ballista had been a wonder to behold. the craftsmanship that went into her blueprints, down to the very detail of how it would be used, even its failsafes were impressive. though, he did have to hear of Cloud Retainer’s grumbling about it for a week, even if she thinks he couldn’t hear her (something about favourtism, but all of them know that’s a lie).

so to hear of a new invention from Guizhong already comes to a surprise. maybe Rex Lapis shouldn’t be; he’s sure that ideas are everflowing in that head of hers. but perhaps the real surprise is the fact that she wants his assistance with it; he’s not sure where he could help, but he’s glad to all the same. he can’t hide the curiosity in his voice, however]

What is it that you wanted to show me?

Comments

[godofdust]

[The ballista was a work of genius and no one would have heard the end of it had Rex Lapis not chosen it over Cloud Retainer's design. Though Guizhong is rarely idle in her work and she had of course not only been working on the ballista... there were one or two other things on the side in half finished notes and little sketches.

One of those things is now complete, and it is that thing which the Prime Adeptus finds her so eager to show him. So she loops her arm through his and draws him away from whatever he's doing at the time (was it urgent? Important? No it was not) to pay attention to her once again.]

It's a surprise, Rex. [She giggles softly at the curiosity in his voice, delighting in hearing it.] You trust me, don't you?

[moradigging]

[there are very few that are allowed to shorten his name, but Guizhong does fall under that very small group of people. for all that he is a powerful adeptus with power only those can dream about, who would otherwise bow to the warrior god, Guizhong always seemed to look past it. and, if it were any other adeptus, they probably wouldn't get away with teasing him or pulling him into one of their antics like she does. there's something about the other god that Rex Lapis finds himself almost adoring; how could he not? she always did have this aura about her that brightened up even the most sourest of moods.

though, that doesn't wipe away the skeptical look on Rex Lapis' face; there's just something about her that's rather scheming, and he isn't sure he wants to be a part of this, all of a sudden]

Haagentus-- [he only refers to Guizhong as this when he's wary about her plans] --When you preface your next invention with an inquiry of my trust in you, I almost have to be inclined to say no.

[a lie, of course; he does hold a lot of trust in Guizhong]

[godofdust]

[She lets out a little 'ooooh' under her breath when he uses that name. It is her name, of course, as much as Rex Lapis is his as well as Morax, but she hears it so rarely from anyone that she can't help but feel like she might be in trouble.

Not that such a thing would ever prompt her to tread carefully. She trusts Rex Lapis implicity, he would never do anything to harm her, and of course she would not do anything to cause him harm either (or... try, since she doubts she could even make a dent even if she wanted to).

Guizhong look up at him as she hangs off his arm, the absolute picture of (mischievous) innocence.]

Morax, I would never do anything to make myself unworthy of your trust. [His arm gets a light pat, soothing.] I promise, you're going to enjoy it.

[moradigging]

[there's a small grumble at the back of his throat, but Rex Lapis eventually does concede as he lets out a small huff. honestly, he has no idea how Guizhong does it; is it her natural charm? or that innocent look on her face (innocent his butt, he knows that look)? whatever it is, it seems as if she has him wrapped around her finger, and more shockingly, Rex Lapis himself finds that he doesn't mind it.

he lets out another huff, lifting a hand to place over Guizhong's]

And if I don't enjoy it? What will you offer in reparations?

[a joke, of course. he doesn't offer a contract; between the both of them, he never does. he's not sure why, maybe it's because he doesn't want to bind someone so... free spirited to something so uncompromising. and really, he does enjoy her inventions, so he's not entirely too worried]

I will admit I'm curious as to what is more impressive than your ballista.

[godofdust]

Hmmm~

[What could she offer in reparations, indeed? She muses on this in silence while they walk together, knowing full well that an answer - if spoken in the right way - would amount to a contract in Morax's eyes and therefore would be something that she would be bound to.

Guizhong considers, but... she does not think that he is going to dislike it.]

In reparations, should my invention not meet with your satisfaction, I shall agree to turn my mind to whatever creation you next desire to have designed... forsaking any other ongoing project. [Her gaze slants sidelong up at him.] I swear it, as a solemn oath.

[And the deed is done. Guizhong observes him quietly for a few moments more then laughs and pulls him along, finally reaching the door of her workshop. Inside, nothing looks amiss, but she draws him along to one of the back rooms where a curious-looking chair sits surrounded by a few unusual tools.]

Come in, come in.