( There is a moment where Fu Xuan wants to berate him for stopping. What sort of partner is he supposed to be, giving her the promise of more only to to pull it away from her right when she demands what she she wants. Scowling, she tries to pull him back to kiss her, but finds him unmoving. And, as the waves of lust and desire pull back, she finds herself grateful for it -- the chance to tell him what she wants without the confusing haze of want.
Fu Xuan shifts, and then: ) I am. Though I appreciate your restraint and your concern. Though I do wish to know what you had in mind, so that I am adequately prepared.
( And while she doesn't doubt that she will eventually want everything he has to offer, it... may be wise to agree to the things they do and do not want at this point in time. )
[ He waits, after she stops speaking, still watching her face, and when he’s satisfied that she’s truly given her answer, he nods, tilting his head to the side, his lazy smile returning. He won’t have anything be unclear between them — he wants to know what she wants, what she’s feeling, wants to give her anything she asks for.
(Yes, even the title of General. But she’s not ready yet.)
Jing Yuan considers his next words carefully, resuming his teasing touch at her thighs, speaking casually but with an air of desire, his voice low and heavy. ] Right now, Master Diviner, I want to please you. I want to see you unwound, and I would hear you gasp my name as I bring you to release. And, if you so wish it, I would bring you to bed and I would please you there as well, with my lips and with my cock. And then, Lady Fu…
[ He brushes her face with his fingers, and just for a moment, he’s vulnerable, going quiet. ] I would like to continue to court you, if you would continue to have me.
( Well aware of what is involved in sexual intercourse means that none of his words should shock her, but the low timber of his voice has a part of her that he has so deftly unlocked trembling with an ache she has little experience with. The words paint a deft picture; a hand curling into his shoulder, bunching the fabric there at the thought. He wants to take her to bed, he--
He what? )
Court me?
( While her expression is clearly shocked, there is not an ounce of revulsion or distaste at the idea. It was just... she had never considered the possibility. Not only of General Jing Yuan courting her, but of anyone desiring to do such a thing at all. Fu Xuan had made up her mind long ago that she was in no position to seek it out, but now that it had been delivered gently and delicately into her lap-- )
Ahem. ( She clears her throat, trying her best to look as if he hadn't just taken her completely by surprise. ) That is to say if that is what you wish, I have no objections. Quite the opposite.
[ Is the idea so shocking?, he wants to ask while she looks at him surprised, his eyes clouding over. But it leaves as quick as it came at the clearing of her throat, and there's a warmth that starts to radiate out of his chest at her words, his fingers carefully brushing at her folds. ]
It is, Lady Fu. If that is what you wish. And, as you say you have no objections...
[ He brushes their noses together, before kissing her softly, pressing his middle finger just enough inside her so he can feel her slick warmth. ] Then we can consider this the beginning. [ He presses in just a little further, careful not to hurt her. ]
And if you want me to stop, you are to tell me. If it hurts, you are to tell me. If you simply don't like it, you are to tell me. It is no pleasure for me if it isn't for you.
( What would being courted by the Divine Foresight even include? Fu Xuan supposes she could divine her own future, to see how it begins and ends, but she fully lacks the desire to do so. To feel trapped by their fates and destiny... she does not want that, in this matter. Not when he kisses her softly, and she can feel her body relaxing at his touch.
Long has she admired Jing Yuan. Desired his position, and enjoyed his company, no matter the headache it may have left with her. None of that prepares her for the care with which he slides his finger in, promises to respect her wishes and desires.
Fu Xuan can feel her body tighten with a soft sound of discomfort, the intrusion gentle but still foreign enough that it takes her a moment to breathe and relax through it, the scrunch of her face slowly falling into one dominated by pleasure with the further press of his finger. )
( Her hands fist in his clothes, and she tilts her head up to kiss him again. His lips are warm, warmer than she can remember anything being, and as soft and gentle as the care he displays. It is a strange thing, to know the strength that lies within him, and be on the end of the kindness that he radiates. )
[ It had been difficult not to notice her, mostly because she’d marched into the Seat that night, full of determination and a fire that she was on the right path. Calling down the Reignbow Arbiter? Their best chance at survival? But she was so sure that he knew not trusting her would fail. But he couldn’t set her up for disaster; no, should anything happen, he would take responsibility.
His faith in her had been solidified when it had worked, and she’d taken up a space in his mind he had long thought closed.
He’d wanted to kiss her then, and so he kissed her now, pulling his hand out of her dress to reach up and pull out the load bearing pins in her hair, tossing them onto the board and tangling his fingers in it. Its softer than he’d thought, fragrant with her soap. He works his lower hand carefully, pressing in and out, going just a little deeper each time, slowing down if she seems uncomfortable, moving faster when she doesn’t. When he reaches the palm of his hand, he pulls out all the way and starts over with two, listening to the sounds she’s making, moving with her as she adjusts her weight so she’s comfortable. When he’s able to get both fingers all the way in, he pulls out again, this time to press his wet fingers to her clit, curling them in soft circles. He doesn’t intend to rush it, but he doesn’t want to take his time either — he wants to hear her, so he can remember it when he touches himself later, when he’s alone. ]
You don’t need to be quiet, Fu Xuan. It’s just us.
( Fu Xuan's head spins. It isn't an unpleasant feeling -- she is used to cataloguing input from multiple sources and sorting it quickly and with ease -- but that is with divination, not... not physical pleasure. She feels overwhelmed, as if all of her is heavy and tight with want. Fu Xuan is aware of her own body's responses and needs well enough, but experimenting alone hardly compares to what Jing Yuan is doing now.
Her hand goes to fist tighter in his clothes, the other to muffle the sounds that escape her. They are, she assumes, quite embarrassing. Soft groans that turn louder with every deeper press of a finger, merging into moans when he presses two fingers into her -- her eyes fluttering closed as she fights against the urge to simply let go. It is tempting, but she has spent so much of her adult life proving she belongs where she is, that any shortcomings one might consider her having are unjustified, in error. But Jing Yuan pulls her from her thoughts with surprising ease and grace.
Perhaps not so surprising, given his breadth of experience and general dispostion.
It's when his fingers press against her clit that she jerks into his hand, biting down on her lip hard enough to bruise with the strength to keep from crying out. And then Jing Yuan encourages her -- he wants to hear her? )
You-- ( It takes her a long moment for her to remove her hand from over her mouth, sliding it into the hair at the nape of his neck. She feels unmoored, her own hair lose and cascading down her back. ) Jing Yuan. ( Softly at first, and she leans forward enough to rest her forehead against his chest, hoping that shielding herself from his gaze will let her forget the intensity of it for long enough to let herself go.
It works, for the next press of his hands against her clit has her crying out louder, a sharp bark of his name. ) Jing Yuan!
[ Ah. Well, perhaps someday he’ll get to see her face during. He curls his fingers against her through her climax and pulls away when he’s sure she’s rode through it,sliding his hand back down to the small of her back, tacky with her cum. Brushing his fingers through her hair, he leans down to press a soft kiss to the top of her head before pulling back and tilting her chin up to look at him, tilting his head to the side. He’s back to that cat like grin, though he isn’t trying to be smug about it, this time.
But then again, how can he not be? It’s always worth feeling proud about making a partner feel good, especially one you’ve been thinking about in your sleep for a long time. He presses a soft kiss to her forehead, above her Omniscia, and then another to her mouth. ]
( The flush of her cheeks isn't all due to embarrassment, the hotness of her desire still lingering in them. It only intensifies as he kisses her, gently raises her head so he can look at her -- there's a warmth in her chest that has nothing to do with her climax and everything to do with who brought her to that point. She does not indulge in affection, not with her job and her goals -- a lofty ambition must match her willingness to earn her place. And yet...
Fu Xuan exhales, allowing herself to breathe. )
Yes. ( The hand that was clutching at him so tightly finally unclenches, and she reaches out to cup his cheek. He seems so large by comparison, and not simply because she is so small; there is a presence to Jing Yuan that makes anyone take notice of him, to want the pleasure of his gaze. And now she has it, and it is as equal parts arousing as it is terrifying. ) You said-- you said you wished to court me, if I would allow it?
( She must make sure of it before she gives him her answer once more. )
[ Her touch is soft and he leans into it, letting him indulge in the sensation of it; it’s been too long, really, since he’d allowed anyone this kind of physical intimacy. He reaches up to place his hand over hers, closing his eyes as he responds. ]
Is it so surprising?
[ He turns his head to press a kiss to her palm, opening his eyes as he leans his cheek back into her hand once more. He’s a little more serious than usual, not wanting to let her go but unwilling to force her into anything she doesn’t want to do. ]
Yes, I would like to, if you would have me. But if you do not, then I will respect that wish.
( She softens, looking at him. The weight of his shoulders and the ages he's spent alive clearer now that he is closer to her than he has ever been. But he wears it well; there is no one better suited for the generalship than him, in his moment. In the future it will be her -- everyone is aware of her ambitions -- but for now she is... grateful for the chance to share in a part of him that he does not allow most, if any, to see.
Fu Xuan stretches herself up to press a kiss to the tip of his nose, brushing aside his hair to see both of his eyes. )
For something I haven't considered before this evening, I am more than willing to entertain your courtship. As- as well as everything else you have mentioned. ( Why is it surprising? Well-- ) As you no doubt are aware by now, I am not anyone's first choice for romance. My experience is limited. It is not something I have ever considered for myself, given all that I need to attend to during the day. To be courted by the Divine Foresight himself--
( It feels like an impossible, improbable thing. )
[ It comes out a gentle tease, but with both of his eyes exposed it’s hard to hide the small hint of not quite hurt in them as he says it. He turns his head again to kiss her palm, an excuse to compose himself from that hurt; it wasn’t her intention, and he isn’t here to make her feel guilty for being honest with him. Quite the contrary. There are few people on the Luofu who aren’t afraid to be honest with him, and she’s one of them, something he’d grown to appreciate over the centuries he’s known her.
But he needs to make it clear to her that this isn’t just a passing interest. That her lack of experience isn’t anything to be ashamed of, especially not with him. That she doesn’t need to explain herself to him, not about this. That he likes her as she is, whatever that entails. ]
I come to you just as I am, Fu Xuan. An old man hoping for the companionship of someone he’s grown fond of over the years. I have nothing to offer but myself, and all I ask is for you to come as you are. [ He laces their fingers together, presses her knuckles to his lips as he looks back to her. ] No more, and no less, whatever that may entail. With you, I am simply Jing Yuan. And you, Fu Xuan, are my first choice for romance. If, up to now, others have failed you in that regard, that is their loss, but I would prefer if it wasn’t mine.
( She does not mean to cause Jing Yuan hurt, and her fingers run against his skin as a means to assure him that her interest is not to be underestimated. It doesn't stop her blush when he takes her hands, kisses them with such an aching tenderness that it could move weaker partners to tears. Her breath catches in her throat before she exhales, bringing his own hands to her chest, flattening them over her heart so he can feel how it beats faster at his words.
Fu Xuan is not unmoved, she is simply... without practice. )
How can you simply say such things like that, I-- ( No, that's not how she wants to answer this. Fu Xuan clears he throat, and leans forward enough to rest her forehead against his. ) You misunderstand me, Jing Yuan. Simply because I did not perceive it to be a possibility does not mean I have never desired your attention or affection. I do not spend my life concerned with things I have already dismissed as improbable or unlikely. You have ever been out of my reach in all things, much to my own displeasure, and to find out that in the most intimate of ways you are not--
( She's speaking around herself again, and Fu Xuan sighs. )
[ He wants to protest that he's never been out of her reach, but it isn't the point. Perhaps later he can convince her — right now, though, she's made herself clear, and he's no intention of lingering on things better left alone in this moment. The smile she gets is a real one, not the slow lazy thing most common from him, and not the amused but empty thing he typically gives to people trying to get him to work. She's likely only seen it a handful of times before, on rare occasions that maybe no one else is looking.
But here it is for her, his hands splayed over her heart, and he leans down to press their foreheads together (careful of her third eye), heaving a sigh so content it could have come from Snowlion himself. ]
( He is the Divine Foresight, the Arbiter-General of the Luofu. Jing Yuan is the very definition of untouchable for those below him -- and therein lies the problem. Jing Yuan may wish to be a common man, but his status and history get in his way. Fu Xuan knows better than to mention it now, basking in the smile he gifts her. It is a rare, fragile thing, and she will cherish it until age and mara steal it away from her. )
Shall we engage in a contest of who considers themselves the most lucky? For I believe that honor is mine. ( Fu Xuan is content to just remain here, in his orbit, as close to him as she can get. ) Do not think this changes my desire for your office, however.
( Just it case he had any thoughts that he could distract her enough from it. )
[ His laugh is warm, like a blanket dried in the sun, and he moves to envelope her in his arms, pressing his face to her neck, the laugh turning into a hum. ] I would never presume that you would desire me more than my seat—
[ He’ll take the compliment, pressing a kiss to her neck to soothe her annoyance. ]
I’m truly honored, [ he says as he pulls back to look at her, unable to help the overly fond expression on his face, eyes half lidded in contentment. After a moment, he leans forward to press a soft kiss to her mouth. ]
I would like to see you again, just the two of us. Will you let me know when I can?
( For an expression she has only truly witnessed tonight -- for if he had ever leveled that gaze on her before it was nowhere she could see, or didn't see for lack of knowing to look -- Fu Xuan is becoming overly fond of it. Almost as fond as she is of him.
Her lips curl into a smile as he kisses her, hands coming up to cup his face. )
Hmm. Three nights from now should give me enough time to account for an evening free.
[ Relief floods him despite himself; there will always be a part of him, even in his old age, that assumes he will be on his own for the rest of his time, that everything he’s ever cared for and touched will leave him in their time. If she had said this was a one time thing, he would have understood. It’s a lonely place, the seat of the General, but he’s grown accustomed to it.
He smiles at her, leaning into her touch for a moment before reaching to grab her hair pins, leaning back in his seat to offer them to her. ]
Then I look forward to seeing you again, Master Diviner, in a more intimate setting. Shall we meet at my residence?
( Humming her thanks, Fu Xuan busies herself with pinning her hair up -- it will not quite look untouched as it did upon her arrival, but it is close enough that it will not garner any questioning looks from those who might see her. They have not discussed the... public nature of whatever this courtship might flourish into, but Fu Xuan finds herself disinclined to make it a well known fact.
Not out of shame, far from it. They are both public figures, with public duties and public lives. It is out of a selfish, greedy desire to have something just for themselves for some time -- there is no need to involve anyone else until they both decide otherwise.
It's only a shame her composure only lasts until he speaks again. )
Your-- ( Well, where are they going to meet? Still-- ) Very well, Jing Yuan.
( Slipping off the table, Fu Xuan hums slightly, before once more reaching to pull him down to meet her in a kiss. )
I shall be there. But I will insist upon you completing and submitting your work ahead of time.
( With a small bow and one last look, Fu Xuan excuses herself, finding a lightness in her step and her heart she hadn't previously considered herself capable of. Or, if she had, capable of allowing herself in decades. )
Challenge accepted. He watches her go with a smile on his face and, for the first time in a while, one in his heart as well.
He works studiously for the next two days, and on the end of the second, he informs Qingzu that he will be taking the next day off. He can tell she wants to ask why — but she keeps from it, instead responding that she would reschedule any important meetings for another day and time. There's no paperwork left on his desk that night, and he's confident anything urgent needing his attention will be brought to him anyway, but he also knows Qingzu will not bother him on a much needed day of rest unless the Luofu or one of its sister ships is quite literally on fire.
He tells his cook that he will be having a private guest over for dinner the next evening and to prepare accordingly; he only has two people working as staff at the manse, and both are people who can be trusted to keep the general's private affairs just that. He still tells them both that they can leave early tomorrow anyway. He doesn't want to cause Fu Xuan any concern. This is a delicate thing in his hands, and he wants to treat it, and her, with all the care she deserves. He retires early, as is his wont, and rises with the sun to begin his preparations.
The sun is beginning to set when she arrives, and his cook is the one who leads her to his personal quarters, where a feast has been laid out for the two of them: soy braised mushrooms with chestnuts, glazed porkbelly, stir fried bok choy and gai lan, dates in osmanthus syrup, crispy roasted duck. There's a bottle of huangjiu warming over a soft flame, and the air is sweet with the smell of incense, the room dimmed in candlelight. The cook bows to Fu Xuan and makes her exit, closing the door behind her. Jing Yuan himself is seated at the table, dressed down in casual robes, loosely tied around his waist. He smiles at Fu Xuan, and then gestures to the pillow seat across from him. ]
( Fu Xuan does not call into work that day, though she hears gossiping about how the general himself has taken a day off. Not unheard of, but certainly rare enough to cause a buzz amongst those privileged to know the information at all. Fu Xuan, who knows that he has finished all of his work, does not pay it any significant mind. She leaves the Divination Commission on time, returning home to...
Prepare, she supposes. As if she was being prepared to march into war, though she supposes romance holds only a few cursory similarities to warfare. It takes her longer than she would like to admit before settling on a zhiju pao set for the evening -- light enough and plain enough not to make those who might see her on her way to his manse raise eyebrows. Her hair, too, is taken down out of its usual sticks and combs into a lower, looser style. Once she is satisfied that she looks presentable, it's time for her to leave.
She is aware of where Jing Yuan lives, though she has never personally been -- even he should be allowed to have his privacy -- and finds it with ease. It seems... much like every other house on the Luofu, just bigger and filled with the weight of playing host to an old man and his retainer with youthful energy. An old man she is extremely fond of, Fu Xuan reminds herself, though even the warmth in her chest and the memory of the other night that cannot prepare her for the feast he's laid out for the both of them once she is led into his quarters. And the general himself -- Fu Xuan can only recall seeing him so dressed down a few scant times before, when he has been injured beyond his limits and forced to take rest before he made his injuries worse.
Fu Xuan swallows something as she manages to tear her eyes away from the sliver of chest, refocusing on the food as she settles down on the offered seat. The intimate atmosphere might have been stifling if he were anyone else, but she knows that Jing Yuan has done this for her, because he wants her to experience it. And it is that which charms her more than the setting itself. The care he has for her, his honest desire. )
General. ( A small, but heartfelt smile. ) I did not think this would be what awaited me when I accepted your invitation.
[ The temptation to tease her is there, and it even plays on the edge of his mouth as he responds, leaning forward to pour her a small cup of the rice wine, glancing her over under his bangs as he settles back into his seat with his own cup perched in her hand, forearm resting on his knee. ]
And what were you expecting, if I may be so bold to inquire?
[ And, it seems, he's going to give into it. For now. He didn't bring her here just to seduce her, though if she ends up in his bed later he won't protest it. He's keen to spend time with her, but only at her own pace. He has no idea if this is something new for her, but he's certain she knows this isn't new for him, and he's had a fair share of partners tell him flat out that it intimidates them. It had bothered him then, and it would bother him even more so now, should she choose to walk away from their mutual attraction for that reason alone.
Teasing her will, in all likelihood, exacerbate the issue. So he'll keep it light, for now, and if he starts to fluster her too much, he'll back off. After that? Well. In all his experience he has learned something important: you can only plan so much when it comes to matters of the heart. ]
( If there is one thing that Fu Xuan knows about herself, it is that as intimidating as Jing Yuan can be, she has never let that stop her. Not when they first met, and never since. She speaks her mind when she must, challenging him when she feels it is needed, and together they create a path forward in their own ways for the good of the Luofu. His extensive sexual and romantic history can only be to her benefit -- together they will find their way, as they do in all things. Who would not want to have their first experience with an individual who's breadth of knowledge can help her navigate her own needs and wants?
But it does not mean that she isn't flustered by his teasing, pink appearing high in her cheeks. Buying herself time with a drink of the offered wine is enough, but she won't descend into drunkenness just to avoid answering him. So after another sip, she answers. )
Something less elaborate. I had considered an... intimate meal, but nothing this extensive. Which is not to say that I am not grateful, of course, just unprepared for what awaited me.
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Fu Xuan shifts, and then: ) I am. Though I appreciate your restraint and your concern. Though I do wish to know what you had in mind, so that I am adequately prepared.
( And while she doesn't doubt that she will eventually want everything he has to offer, it... may be wise to agree to the things they do and do not want at this point in time. )
(Yes, even the title of General. But she’s not ready yet.)
Jing Yuan considers his next words carefully, resuming his teasing touch at her thighs, speaking casually but with an air of desire, his voice low and heavy. ] Right now, Master Diviner, I want to please you. I want to see you unwound, and I would hear you gasp my name as I bring you to release. And, if you so wish it, I would bring you to bed and I would please you there as well, with my lips and with my cock. And then, Lady Fu…
[ He brushes her face with his fingers, and just for a moment, he’s vulnerable, going quiet. ] I would like to continue to court you, if you would continue to have me.
He what? )
Court me?
( While her expression is clearly shocked, there is not an ounce of revulsion or distaste at the idea. It was just... she had never considered the possibility. Not only of General Jing Yuan courting her, but of anyone desiring to do such a thing at all. Fu Xuan had made up her mind long ago that she was in no position to seek it out, but now that it had been delivered gently and delicately into her lap-- )
Ahem. ( She clears her throat, trying her best to look as if he hadn't just taken her completely by surprise. ) That is to say if that is what you wish, I have no objections. Quite the opposite.
It is, Lady Fu. If that is what you wish. And, as you say you have no objections...
[ He brushes their noses together, before kissing her softly, pressing his middle finger just enough inside her so he can feel her slick warmth. ] Then we can consider this the beginning. [ He presses in just a little further, careful not to hurt her. ]
And if you want me to stop, you are to tell me. If it hurts, you are to tell me. If you simply don't like it, you are to tell me. It is no pleasure for me if it isn't for you.
Long has she admired Jing Yuan. Desired his position, and enjoyed his company, no matter the headache it may have left with her. None of that prepares her for the care with which he slides his finger in, promises to respect her wishes and desires.
Fu Xuan can feel her body tighten with a soft sound of discomfort, the intrusion gentle but still foreign enough that it takes her a moment to breathe and relax through it, the scrunch of her face slowly falling into one dominated by pleasure with the further press of his finger. )
I-- I understand, General. ( Wait. ) Jing Yuan. Please-- continue.
( Her hands fist in his clothes, and she tilts her head up to kiss him again. His lips are warm, warmer than she can remember anything being, and as soft and gentle as the care he displays. It is a strange thing, to know the strength that lies within him, and be on the end of the kindness that he radiates. )
His faith in her had been solidified when it had worked, and she’d taken up a space in his mind he had long thought closed.
He’d wanted to kiss her then, and so he kissed her now, pulling his hand out of her dress to reach up and pull out the load bearing pins in her hair, tossing them onto the board and tangling his fingers in it. Its softer than he’d thought, fragrant with her soap. He works his lower hand carefully, pressing in and out, going just a little deeper each time, slowing down if she seems uncomfortable, moving faster when she doesn’t. When he reaches the palm of his hand, he pulls out all the way and starts over with two, listening to the sounds she’s making, moving with her as she adjusts her weight so she’s comfortable. When he’s able to get both fingers all the way in, he pulls out again, this time to press his wet fingers to her clit, curling them in soft circles. He doesn’t intend to rush it, but he doesn’t want to take his time either — he wants to hear her, so he can remember it when he touches himself later, when he’s alone. ]
You don’t need to be quiet, Fu Xuan. It’s just us.
Her hand goes to fist tighter in his clothes, the other to muffle the sounds that escape her. They are, she assumes, quite embarrassing. Soft groans that turn louder with every deeper press of a finger, merging into moans when he presses two fingers into her -- her eyes fluttering closed as she fights against the urge to simply let go. It is tempting, but she has spent so much of her adult life proving she belongs where she is, that any shortcomings one might consider her having are unjustified, in error. But Jing Yuan pulls her from her thoughts with surprising ease and grace.
Perhaps not so surprising, given his breadth of experience and general dispostion.
It's when his fingers press against her clit that she jerks into his hand, biting down on her lip hard enough to bruise with the strength to keep from crying out. And then Jing Yuan encourages her -- he wants to hear her? )
You-- ( It takes her a long moment for her to remove her hand from over her mouth, sliding it into the hair at the nape of his neck. She feels unmoored, her own hair lose and cascading down her back. ) Jing Yuan. ( Softly at first, and she leans forward enough to rest her forehead against his chest, hoping that shielding herself from his gaze will let her forget the intensity of it for long enough to let herself go.
It works, for the next press of his hands against her clit has her crying out louder, a sharp bark of his name. ) Jing Yuan!
But then again, how can he not be? It’s always worth feeling proud about making a partner feel good, especially one you’ve been thinking about in your sleep for a long time. He presses a soft kiss to her forehead, above her Omniscia, and then another to her mouth. ]
Are you alright?
Fu Xuan exhales, allowing herself to breathe. )
Yes. ( The hand that was clutching at him so tightly finally unclenches, and she reaches out to cup his cheek. He seems so large by comparison, and not simply because she is so small; there is a presence to Jing Yuan that makes anyone take notice of him, to want the pleasure of his gaze. And now she has it, and it is as equal parts arousing as it is terrifying. ) You said-- you said you wished to court me, if I would allow it?
( She must make sure of it before she gives him her answer once more. )
Is it so surprising?
[ He turns his head to press a kiss to her palm, opening his eyes as he leans his cheek back into her hand once more. He’s a little more serious than usual, not wanting to let her go but unwilling to force her into anything she doesn’t want to do. ]
Yes, I would like to, if you would have me. But if you do not, then I will respect that wish.
Fu Xuan stretches herself up to press a kiss to the tip of his nose, brushing aside his hair to see both of his eyes. )
For something I haven't considered before this evening, I am more than willing to entertain your courtship. As- as well as everything else you have mentioned. ( Why is it surprising? Well-- ) As you no doubt are aware by now, I am not anyone's first choice for romance. My experience is limited. It is not something I have ever considered for myself, given all that I need to attend to during the day. To be courted by the Divine Foresight himself--
( It feels like an impossible, improbable thing. )
I am interested.
[ It comes out a gentle tease, but with both of his eyes exposed it’s hard to hide the small hint of not quite hurt in them as he says it. He turns his head again to kiss her palm, an excuse to compose himself from that hurt; it wasn’t her intention, and he isn’t here to make her feel guilty for being honest with him. Quite the contrary. There are few people on the Luofu who aren’t afraid to be honest with him, and she’s one of them, something he’d grown to appreciate over the centuries he’s known her.
But he needs to make it clear to her that this isn’t just a passing interest. That her lack of experience isn’t anything to be ashamed of, especially not with him. That she doesn’t need to explain herself to him, not about this. That he likes her as she is, whatever that entails. ]
I come to you just as I am, Fu Xuan. An old man hoping for the companionship of someone he’s grown fond of over the years. I have nothing to offer but myself, and all I ask is for you to come as you are. [ He laces their fingers together, presses her knuckles to his lips as he looks back to her. ] No more, and no less, whatever that may entail. With you, I am simply Jing Yuan. And you, Fu Xuan, are my first choice for romance. If, up to now, others have failed you in that regard, that is their loss, but I would prefer if it wasn’t mine.
Do I still interest you?
Edited (autocorrect strikes again) 2024-05-15 04:45 pm (UTC)
Fu Xuan is not unmoved, she is simply... without practice. )
How can you simply say such things like that, I-- ( No, that's not how she wants to answer this. Fu Xuan clears he throat, and leans forward enough to rest her forehead against his. ) You misunderstand me, Jing Yuan. Simply because I did not perceive it to be a possibility does not mean I have never desired your attention or affection. I do not spend my life concerned with things I have already dismissed as improbable or unlikely. You have ever been out of my reach in all things, much to my own displeasure, and to find out that in the most intimate of ways you are not--
( She's speaking around herself again, and Fu Xuan sighs. )
You do. You always have.
But here it is for her, his hands splayed over her heart, and he leans down to press their foreheads together (careful of her third eye), heaving a sigh so content it could have come from Snowlion himself. ]
Then I am a very lucky man indeed.
Shall we engage in a contest of who considers themselves the most lucky? For I believe that honor is mine. ( Fu Xuan is content to just remain here, in his orbit, as close to him as she can get. ) Do not think this changes my desire for your office, however.
( Just it case he had any thoughts that he could distract her enough from it. )
Equal to, perhaps.
I’m truly honored, [ he says as he pulls back to look at her, unable to help the overly fond expression on his face, eyes half lidded in contentment. After a moment, he leans forward to press a soft kiss to her mouth. ]
I would like to see you again, just the two of us. Will you let me know when I can?
Her lips curl into a smile as he kisses her, hands coming up to cup his face. )
Hmm. Three nights from now should give me enough time to account for an evening free.
He smiles at her, leaning into her touch for a moment before reaching to grab her hair pins, leaning back in his seat to offer them to her. ]
Then I look forward to seeing you again, Master Diviner, in a more intimate setting. Shall we meet at my residence?
Not out of shame, far from it. They are both public figures, with public duties and public lives. It is out of a selfish, greedy desire to have something just for themselves for some time -- there is no need to involve anyone else until they both decide otherwise.
It's only a shame her composure only lasts until he speaks again. )
Your-- ( Well, where are they going to meet? Still-- ) Very well, Jing Yuan.
( Slipping off the table, Fu Xuan hums slightly, before once more reaching to pull him down to meet her in a kiss. )
I shall be there. But I will insist upon you completing and submitting your work ahead of time.
( With a small bow and one last look, Fu Xuan excuses herself, finding a lightness in her step and her heart she hadn't previously considered herself capable of. Or, if she had, capable of allowing herself in decades. )
Well.
Challenge accepted. He watches her go with a smile on his face and, for the first time in a while, one in his heart as well.
He works studiously for the next two days, and on the end of the second, he informs Qingzu that he will be taking the next day off. He can tell she wants to ask why — but she keeps from it, instead responding that she would reschedule any important meetings for another day and time. There's no paperwork left on his desk that night, and he's confident anything urgent needing his attention will be brought to him anyway, but he also knows Qingzu will not bother him on a much needed day of rest unless the Luofu or one of its sister ships is quite literally on fire.
He tells his cook that he will be having a private guest over for dinner the next evening and to prepare accordingly; he only has two people working as staff at the manse, and both are people who can be trusted to keep the general's private affairs just that. He still tells them both that they can leave early tomorrow anyway. He doesn't want to cause Fu Xuan any concern. This is a delicate thing in his hands, and he wants to treat it, and her, with all the care she deserves. He retires early, as is his wont, and rises with the sun to begin his preparations.
The sun is beginning to set when she arrives, and his cook is the one who leads her to his personal quarters, where a feast has been laid out for the two of them: soy braised mushrooms with chestnuts, glazed porkbelly, stir fried bok choy and gai lan, dates in osmanthus syrup, crispy roasted duck. There's a bottle of huangjiu warming over a soft flame, and the air is sweet with the smell of incense, the room dimmed in candlelight. The cook bows to Fu Xuan and makes her exit, closing the door behind her. Jing Yuan himself is seated at the table, dressed down in casual robes, loosely tied around his waist. He smiles at Fu Xuan, and then gestures to the pillow seat across from him. ]
Welcome, Master Diviner. I'm glad you're here.
Prepare, she supposes. As if she was being prepared to march into war, though she supposes romance holds only a few cursory similarities to warfare. It takes her longer than she would like to admit before settling on a zhiju pao set for the evening -- light enough and plain enough not to make those who might see her on her way to his manse raise eyebrows. Her hair, too, is taken down out of its usual sticks and combs into a lower, looser style. Once she is satisfied that she looks presentable, it's time for her to leave.
She is aware of where Jing Yuan lives, though she has never personally been -- even he should be allowed to have his privacy -- and finds it with ease. It seems... much like every other house on the Luofu, just bigger and filled with the weight of playing host to an old man and his retainer with youthful energy. An old man she is extremely fond of, Fu Xuan reminds herself, though even the warmth in her chest and the memory of the other night that cannot prepare her for the feast he's laid out for the both of them once she is led into his quarters. And the general himself -- Fu Xuan can only recall seeing him so dressed down a few scant times before, when he has been injured beyond his limits and forced to take rest before he made his injuries worse.
Fu Xuan swallows something as she manages to tear her eyes away from the sliver of chest, refocusing on the food as she settles down on the offered seat. The intimate atmosphere might have been stifling if he were anyone else, but she knows that Jing Yuan has done this for her, because he wants her to experience it. And it is that which charms her more than the setting itself. The care he has for her, his honest desire. )
General. ( A small, but heartfelt smile. ) I did not think this would be what awaited me when I accepted your invitation.
[ The temptation to tease her is there, and it even plays on the edge of his mouth as he responds, leaning forward to pour her a small cup of the rice wine, glancing her over under his bangs as he settles back into his seat with his own cup perched in her hand, forearm resting on his knee. ]
And what were you expecting, if I may be so bold to inquire?
[ And, it seems, he's going to give into it. For now. He didn't bring her here just to seduce her, though if she ends up in his bed later he won't protest it. He's keen to spend time with her, but only at her own pace. He has no idea if this is something new for her, but he's certain she knows this isn't new for him, and he's had a fair share of partners tell him flat out that it intimidates them. It had bothered him then, and it would bother him even more so now, should she choose to walk away from their mutual attraction for that reason alone.
Teasing her will, in all likelihood, exacerbate the issue. So he'll keep it light, for now, and if he starts to fluster her too much, he'll back off. After that? Well. In all his experience he has learned something important: you can only plan so much when it comes to matters of the heart. ]
But it does not mean that she isn't flustered by his teasing, pink appearing high in her cheeks. Buying herself time with a drink of the offered wine is enough, but she won't descend into drunkenness just to avoid answering him. So after another sip, she answers. )
Something less elaborate. I had considered an... intimate meal, but nothing this extensive. Which is not to say that I am not grateful, of course, just unprepared for what awaited me.
( Including his own choice of apparel. )