Chapter Text
The pulsing bass flooded his eardrums, thin streams of sweat sliding down his heated skin, his wet hand squeaking down the polished pole he was kneeling in front of. The roar of applause and excited whistling drawing out a satisfied smirk on his face. With cat-like grace, Childe stood up from his spread position on the floor, pushing out his ass to gauge even more howling from the crowd, before heading towards the front of the stage to collect his pay for the night. As he stretched his body down into the floor, nimble fingers gathering the bills, he felt his too-short shorts riding up into his backside, the flimsy white tank top hiking up to show off more of his slim, but strong upper body. Slimy hands groped any part of his body they could reach, some digging into his skin, no doubt leaving marks or bruises for days to come. The money finally collected, the red-head rose up on his boot-covered feet, and swinging his hips, left the stage with grace, the horny cat-calls fading behind him.
Slamming his dressing room door closed, Childe threw himself onto the small and cramped loveseat, piled high with his previous costumes, none of them bearing more fabric than the current one he was wearing. He wanted nothing more than to black out, his other performances and clients for the night be damned, but the knowledge of earning more made sure he only closed his eyes for only 20 minutes. Once they were up, Childe stood up with a groan, unlacing the heavy combat boots, letting his abused feet breathe, while he headed for a much-needed shower. The club wasn't extravagant enough for personal showers, so communal was all the dancers were offered. So much for being one of the best strip clubs on this side of Teyvat...
As Childe slipped into the shower, evading the first freezing splash of water that always came before the water warmed, he spotted another of the dancers heading into the shower next to him. A teasing smirk wormed on his face, as he finally stepped under the stream.
''Well, well. Our resident shrimp has it in him after all. I'm surprised you gathered up an audience besides our resident pedos.'' With a chuckle, the redhead dodged the incoming flying bar of soap, aimed at his head.
''Shut up, you skinny bitch! My fans have taste, yours mostly consist of loaded fat pigs or the occasional psycho.'' Scaramouche grumbled back, washing his short hair and body. Scaramouche was one of the newest dancers of The Abyss. His face looked young, despite being older than Childe, his short stature being no help to reveal his true age. His specialty was sadistic play and many of his paying customers enjoyed the pretty, young boy stepping on their genitals while wearing 4 inches tall heels. Well, to each their own...
The young dancer was, unfortunately, not wrong in describing the main audience of Childe's shows. Even though he could spot the occasional handsome face in the crowds, his view was always spoiled by the sweaty, greasy, and fat bodies, not to mention the very grabby drunks, that always swarmed the front of the stage. Most of them requested him due to his feminine figure and handsome face, and with the occasional requests of putting on light make-up, it was clear as to why Childe was so popular amongst his demographic. And as for the psycho Scaramouche had mentioned.....
Any more teasing comments had died down on Childe's tongue, now focused on scrubbing his moist hair, an uncomfortable silence falling between the two of them. The warm water ran down his back, soothing new and old scars.
''...When are you meeting him again?'' Suddenly, his short companion asked. The man in question was a client that was a regular for Childe. He was one of his highest payers but had become too possessive and abusive. The many scars that littered his pale back had come from their many ''playtime'' sessions, the man being a fan of whips and chains. Just thinking of the pretentious man and his annoying white suit made him shiver.
''At the end of the week. Thank God I didn't give him my number or my personal info. Just a week left before I get to leave....'' Dottore had booked him at the end of the week, on his last day of performing at the Abyss, due to being scouted by another establishment, one he was very curious about if the pay was anything to go by.
How it had happened was a strange occurrence in itself.
After one of his shows, a young, beautiful woman, dressed in expensive-looking clothes, mostly in different shades of gold, had stepped up in front and had placed a wad of cash directly in his open palm.
''I suspect this shall be enough for a private meeting?'' The woman asked, before turning away and sitting by the bar. As Childe had cleaned up, he opened the wad up, a business card falling out. As he picked it up, a simple flower design and the name ''SilkFlower'' adorned the small, soft pink card.
The meeting was awkward, the woman sitting in the private room sipping tea instead of a cocktail, and Childe had a feeling this meeting would not end with them in bed. Ningguang, as she had introduced herself, had offered a position in another club, by the sound of it, looking for young performers. She had mentioned it was similar to a strip club and the pay she had offered was not something to ignore. Although Childe had not given a decisive answer, she had invited him to check out the place and meet the owner. And if he didn't like it...well, it was a good time as any to leave the Abyss, a good excuse to get lost and finally start his career in real dancing, not just for smarmy drunks.
---
It hurt, fuck did it hurt. His back and sides were red and raw from the beating Dottore had given him last night. That crazy son of a bitch had somehow found out about him leaving, and had given him a sort of ''parting gift''. Due to that, Childe had opted to wear a turtleneck to hide the ugly bruises and deep purple hickies. As he followed his GPS app on his phone, leading him towards the club, the streets seemed to change in architecture. The buildings were of softly colored wood and many were suspended in air or connected by bridges. They seemed to be expensive and Childe started to wonder what kind of club was he going to. As the GPS pinged and announced that he had reached his destination, Childe rose his head to look at the building. It was huge, and a beautiful carved flower sat right above the heavy mahogany door. In a graceful font, the sign read ''SilkFlower''.
It looked like he was at the right place.
As Childe opened the door, a large hallway greeted him, soft classical music, reminding him of elevator music played as he headed towards what looked like a reception desk, a young woman with dark hair and a green dress standing behind it, busy with the computer. As Childe approached, the woman raised her head, a soft smile on her face.
''Welcome to ''SilkFlower'', sir. Is this your first time, or do you have a reservation?'' The young woman asked politely, an obvious change from the buff and intimidating bouncers that greeted the customers at the Abyss.
''O-oh, um, I'm not really sure...? I had an arranged meeting with a woman by the name of Ningguang? She said to meet her here for a tour. Do you know where I could find her?'' He asked, fidgeting with his bag strap.
''Oh, yes, she did mention that. Could you please wait a moment?'' When Childe nodded, the woman reached for the phone, dialing what he assumed to be his tour guide. While he waited, the redhead looked around the room, spotting plush chairs and artwork of nature hung on the wall. It really didn't give the vibe of an entrance to a sex club at all. As Childe checked the time on his phone, reading 9.30 at night, a door suddenly opened, leaking out laughs, applause, and suggestive music, and the beautiful Ningguang stepped through, her hair pinned up in an intricate style with a hair stick, her body clad in her signature colors, gold dress pants encasing her long slender legs, a white shirt slightly opened, and matching gold suit jacket hanging on her shoulders.
''Ah, we've been waiting for you, Mr. Childe. I hope you've been doing well?'' The woman extended her hand for a handshake, Childe taking it and returning the gesture.
''Yes, thank you. So, are we going on a tour today?''
''I will be showing how our establishment works and introduce you to our owner. And after that, it will be up to you. Now, if you would kindly follow me." Ningguang gestured towards the door she had come from, steering Childe through it.
Expecting the usual scent of sweat and booze and bracing his eyes for the upcoming neon lights, Childe was left breathless, as a classy, large room in soft autumn tones came into view. The usual booming bass was nowhere to be found, a small booth holding various musicians playing live music now in its place. Plush sitting booths for guests littered the floor, some elevated on podiums, others just made from comfortable-looking wooden chairs, instead of couches. A large bar sat on one side of the room, many patrons sitting by it, trying to get the beautiful bartender's attention.
But many of them lost interest in the bar or conversation, when the main attraction of the room swung by on a glittery swing, suspended in the air. Even Childe couldn't make himself move, as the band played in rhythm of the beautiful performer, a young, dark-skinned man, no older than he was, laid back on the narrow swings, letting his midnight hair tumble in the air, gloved hands running down his mostly covered chest, a large cleavage exposing what looked like a white lace bodice. All eyes were glued to the man in the sky, following the path of his fingers, as they ran down between his legs, softly brushing his clothed crotch and thighs.
No annoying hollering followed, no thirsty, horny remarks escaped the guests' lips. The room was absolutely silent, as the man reached the illuminated stage jumping down from the swing, performing a graceful routine, no excessively sexual moves in sight. As the music came to a stop and the performer struck his final pose, the room erupted in applause and respectful cheering. Another young woman stood at the front of the stage, holding a large ornate box, collecting the money meant for the performer. Roses and other flowers flew towards the man on stage, and as he collected them, he blew one last kiss towards the audience, before disappearing behind the heavy curtain.
As the room settled down and soft chatter filled it, Childe finally to himself. A shuddering sigh escaped him, a teasing chuckle sounding next to him.
''I see. That is the usual reaction to Kaeya's performances. Now then, I'm sure not much explanation is needed about our setting and facilities. Live music is available all week, a larger band comes mostly on weekends. The bar has many rush hours, but that information can be obtained from both the owner and the master bartender, Diluc. Now, if you'll follow me, I'll take you to your potential employer.''
Still in shock, Childe followed Ningguang up some ornate stairs and passing many hallways, they ended up in front of another ornate door, guarded by a young-looking man, streaks of color in his dark, short hair. The man offered him a glare, before allowing entry.
''I've brought him like you've asked, Master Zhongli.'' Ningguang announced once in the room, turning to head a bit deeper into it. A large, low table sat in the middle of the room, dark leather sofas sitting by it. The room contained many beautiful artworks, both on the folding screens, walls, and vases, but also, a beautiful work of art sat on the center sofa.
A gorgeous, dark-haired man sat front and center, his legs crossed, showing off exactly how long and slender they were. His strong-looking body was clad in a beautiful suit, dark pants encasing his legs, his upper body covered by a brown suit jacket with many slits and tails. But Childe's focus was concentrated on the man's face, his expression serene, taking a sip of tea from his tiny cup, golden eyes looking up towards the intruders that had dared to disturb his peace. His eyes ran over Childe's form, making the redhead feel naked under his gaze. With a satisfied hum, the man named Zhongli put down his cup on the table, before gesturing the woman to leave them.
When they were finally alone, the man finally spoke up.
''Mr. Childe of the Abyss, I presume?'' the brunette stood up, extending his hand in greeting. As Childe placed his hand in his, he let out a small surprised grunt, as the man raised it to his lips and placed a soft kiss on the back of it.
''I-i, ahem. Yes, at least, I used to belong to the cast of the Abyss. Yesterday was my last night on the job.'' Childe answered, clearing his throat.
''Hm, of course. I would like to suspect it is due to you joining us? Well, no need to rush, I think we should get to the point. Take a seat please.'' The man gestured towards another sofa, and as Childe sat down, his partner got comfortable again.
''It seems I've yet to introduce myself properly. My name is Zhongli, and I am the current owner of ''SilkFlower''. We pride ourselves as the best culturally stimulating adult entertainment club in both Liyue and Teyvat. We do not work like most clubs found in the continent, that is, we don't deal in sexually explicit activities such as intercourse, private shows, or strip shows of full nudity. We brand ourselves as a place to enjoy tastefull, but at the same time teasing and stimulating entertainment. We offer meetings with clients, but they are always observed and are just a chance for our patrons to enjoy some company with our entertainers. Our routines include acrobatics and suggestive dance, but nothing like your usual strip clubs. As we go over the contract, I'm sure you'll have plenty of questions.''
As Zhongli relayed the information, Childe was struggling with hearing all of it and at the same time, respectfully stare at the beautiful man currently talking to him. As he looked at him closer, he spotted a hint of color above his eyes, a soft line of eyeliner making his gaze both sharper and more handsome.
''A question, if I may. Are costumes a thing? Like, do we have to wear cabaret stuff, or our personal clothes are enough?'' Childe dared to ask, as Zhongli headed towards his desk to presumably retrieve a contract.
''We do and don't have costumes. There is a requirement of a certain garment, but how you choose to compliment it is entirely up to the performer. You may choose from your personal clothes or have a pick from our wardrobe for some more eccentric choices.'' As he returned and handed the contract to the redhead, gloved fingers slowly brushed over the pale skin of Childe's hand, before softly asking. ''Would you like to try on the required garment? For a feel for it?'' Zhongli's voice dropped, a soothing grumble caressing his ears. With a shudder, Childe nodded, before Zhongli broke their staring contest and disappeared deeper into the room. As the redhead willed his heart to calm down, the man in question returned, carrying a small package, tied with a golden silk ribbon.
''Where should I change?'' Childe asked, eager to put on the mysterious garment.
''You're free to change behind one of these.'' Zhongli pointed towards one of the folding screens.''Or I can show you to a bathroom if you don't feel comfortable enough.'' With a seductive smirk, Childe took the package from the owners' hands and stepped behind the closest folding screen, before ceremoniously throwing his coat, pants, and shirt on the top of it.
As he tore open the package, careful not to damage the beautiful ribbon, his suspicions were confirmed, when a sky blue lace bodice, similar to what he had spotted the previous performer wearing, fell into his hands, the color eerily similar to his eyes. Slipping off his underwear, Childe slid the garment on his body, surprised about how the lace didn't dig into his backside but sat comfortably with the bottom resembling his just discarded briefs. The top part of the bodice enveloped his non-existent chest, making it clear the clothing was made for a male wearer. Thin straps sat on his bare shoulders and laced down his back, a beautiful gem sitting by his hip. Daring, but not daring enough, Childe reached for his pants and slid them back on, before stepping out.
''Hmm, its more comfortable than I thought, the color is pleasing too.'' Talking nonchalantly, the redhead drew Zhongli's attention to him, a small smirk forming as he saw his desired reaction of Zhongli's pupils dilating and his Adam's apple bobbing heavily.
''Would you like to have a look in the mirror?'' He gestured towards a long, floor-length mirror and Childe headed over to it. A cold shiver ran through him, as he spotted the marks Dottore had left the night before, but his attention soon was drawn to Zhongli's reflection in the mirror, which had settled itself against his back, warm hands running over the lace, that covered his sides.
''It looks lovely on you. It would look better without the bruises, but I assure you, once these disappear, you shall never again be littered with them.'' The heated promise sank deep into Childe's bones, as Zhongli continued to stare into his eyes through the mirror, hands still running over the lace bodice. ''May I ask you a slightly....inappropriate question?'' Zhongli asked, his voice vibrating in Childe's ears
''Go ahead...''
''Do you consider yourself...flexible?'' Childe's eyes widened slightly, before he dropped down, legs spread widely like he would do with a pole, hands holding on by Zhongli's shoulders, eyes following the others gaze, as he dropped and rose up again.
''I have participated in competitive swimming in high school and have some dance training, and of course, experience at the Abyss. But, if you need me to learn anything new,'' Childe drawled seductively, ''I'm sure you'll be able to..bend me into shape.'' He finished, placing his hands on top of Zhongli's, which were sitting on his hips.
''Hmm...I'll see what I can do about that.'' Zhongli answered in kind, tone suggestive. A satisfied smile wormed onto Childe's face as he whispered his next words.
Where do I sign?