Draconic Impact C38

Edited by: Priapus

As someone who had spent much of his life admittedly chasing women for one reason or another, I’ve quickly come to realize that the more direct a woman is, the more likely I am to try to get her in my bed.

I’ve had my first taste of the fairer sex when I was quite young, but at the time, it wasn’t my political prestige or courting skills that had me losing my virginity. See, back then, before the Ama Clan was conceived, I was a relatively infamous bandit, roaming the roads to rob anyone unfortunate enough to cross my path and ransacking poor villages for loot.

Conquest is in my very blood, after all, and as a dragon, I liked hoarding shiny trinkets. Seeing how young and aimless I used to be, there was practically nothing else to live for. Strangely, however, I cared not for the conquest in that sense, seeing it rather ‘impractical’ and ‘pointless’. I suppose that was my mother’s influence talking.

But I did lead a neat little group of like-minded men and women, some of whom threw themselves into my bed purely because I was the most powerful back then. I let it happen because why not, right? Some of the women who followed my lead were pretty enough, and as a growing young man, I was becoming interested in that sort of thing.

Romance, though, was never on the table. I’ve simply found it meaningless when sex is practically all I want in a relationship. Mother, strangely enough, very much disapproved of that sort of mindset, saying it was empty and vain. That ‘love’ is very important, and would make everything feel more alive.

For a demon feared across entire multiverses, she had always been quite sentimental.

But I shrugged and decided to appease her. Try out this ‘love’ thing and see if she was correct. And, as usual, she was. At least to an extent. After all, being loved does make things feel a lot more alive. Your partners become far more proactive, hoping and wanting to make you feel better. They become loving around you in a way that isn’t fake. They become… pleasant, even when not having sex.

I decided I liked that very much, and from then on, I put a lot more effort into courting women, and, as I’ve already established, quickly realized that honest and straightforward ones are my favorite.

Yes, the more complicated a woman is, the more satisfying it is to take her, but I’m old. I’ve done this song and dance a million times already, and it has gotten dull. Spicing it up with someone like Eula is still fun every now and then, but ultimately?

I look down at the proud pirate captain slobbering all over my cock and grin.

“What are you smirking at?” Beidou quickly asks after pausing, glaring at me.

Easy and simple is the way to go.

“Oh, nothing.” I snort. “I’m amused, that's all. Remembering how things had gotten to this point.”

“Yeah, yeah. Laugh it up.” She rolls her eyes, returning to what she was doing as she licks the underside of my member.

Challenging me to a contest of strength, even though she had an idea of how much power I might be hiding? She was overconfident, and now, she’s paying the price. Unexpectedly, though, she kept true to her words. She did not try to bargain or back away from the deal after her loss, and that was something I could respect.

Moreover, she did not seem to hold any resentment toward me, either. At most, she is displeased and annoyed at me for treating her the way I’m doing at the moment. That is a surprise, indeed. It makes me wonder just how easily I can make her fall for me in these three days.

I grab a fistful of Beidou’s hair and force her to take my whole length, and moments later, I unload with a grunt, filling her throat with my seed. She chokes, and her eye rolls back into her skull, but she takes it like a pro, swallowing and not wasting a drop.

I pull out of her, making her cough and hack as thin lines of saliva connecting her mouth and my cock break. The Queen of the Crux Fleet looks mildly dazed for a few seconds before she wipes the drool off her mouth, face growing red in embarrassment.

“I’ll admit, I’m very impressed,” I tell her. “Your head game is definitely a cut above the rest.”

“Really, praising me for my blowjob skills.” She scoffs. “What am I, some kind of a cheap whore?”

“Well, you are doing this for free, so…”

“Oh, leave me alone.” She complains. “I lost a bet.”

“Fair, fair.”

While I can simply tame her with sex alone, and as arousing as that thought might be to my lizard brain, that will only make her lustful toward me, rather than loving. There is a clear distinction between the two.

There is a reason I always try to be cordial toward others. You know, beyond the whole ‘raised to be polite and respectful even to those beneath me’ part.

“So, what’s next, master?” She asks in a sarcastic tone, crossing her arms under her breasts. “Should I bend over the table? Spread my legs while on the bed?”

“No, I’ve had enough.” I wave. I didn’t tell her to call me that, by the way. “Actually, I’m feeling ravenous, and was wondering if you’d like to have breakfast together with me.”

Hearing that, Beidou’s eye narrow.

“That’s a little weird.”

“Is it?” I tilt my head. “I simply would like to know more about you over a nice, hearty meal. Is that really an odd request?”

“Usually, people get to know each other before they start fucking like animals.”

“Well, our circumstances are particularly unusual, aren’t they?”

“They are.” She nods, frown deepening. “And here I thought I was supposed to be your plaything for the next three days.”

“The deal was you becoming my woman, Ms. Beidou. A woman isn’t a plaything.” I correct her. Well, the ones under the Ama Clan’s rule aren’t. Everything else is fair game, to be honest. “And I like to treat my women well.”

Beidou looks at me suspiciously for a few seconds before thinking it over, and relaxing ever so slightly after a period of eye contact. Eventually, she looks away with a quiet sigh.

“Some grub to get the taste of cum out of my mouth would be nice, and I am hungry…” She says before shrugging. “Sure, I guess. Still obligated to do whatever you want, anyway.”

“That’s wonderful to hear. Meet me at the pier in an hour, yes?” I tell her, walking toward the door after putting my clothes on. “I’d like to get cleaned before our date.”

Beidou huffs almost playfully, but says nothing in response.

“And for the record—” I glance at her as I stop at the door. “I wouldn’t have forced you if you’d said no.”

“Didn’t seem to have any problem forcing me to take your dick.” She replies dryly.

“Well, you needed to suffer some consequences. Let this be a lesson for you or whatever,” I argue. “This was your idea in the first place.”

“Fair enough.” She concedes, giving me a slight grin. “To be honest, I only agreed to your demand because I didn't mind losing. You may be scum, but you’re a handsome one. If you were any uglier, I would’ve kicked you off my ship.”

“Lucky me,” I chuckle, walking out of her private quarters. “See you soon.”

Most of her crew on deck seem to be still asleep, fortunately, and the few who see me leaving the ship only wave, either oblivious to what I’ve been doing to their captain or simply not caring in the slightest.

As I get off the ship and walk to my tavern, I wonder when Eula will return from her quest, if she’s not already back. She did take a few commissions at once, so she should take a while, even considering her level of strength.

Regardless, a shower would be nice.

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I look over the pier in the distance, observing The Crux and noting how, compared to the rest of the ships around the docks, it’s of much greater quality. I’m no expert, but I have been part of a few pirate crews back in the day, even led a couple myself, so I can tell that it’s built by master shipwrights. I can also tell that it is slightly worn down, as well. It is a battleship according to Beidou, so it must’ve been through a lot.

Watching the Pirate Queen wolf down her third entrée, a part of me wonders if she’s eating so much purely in an attempt to hurt me since I offered to pay, or if she really is that hungry, but I’m admittedly mildly impressed that a human can fit this much food in her stomach. Though I suppose it makes sense for her. Somewhat.

As a pirate spending most of her time at sea, I’d imagine her cravings are more difficult to satisfy than the average person’s. And besides, someone of her heightened physical strength and more muscular build typically needs more nutrients to function. Not that I mind, of course. Eating is one of life’s greatest pleasures.

When it comes to money, I can likely retire now and live comfortably for a hundred years or so. As for how… ill-mannered she may look, I have a twin sister who can eat ten times as much as this. This is nothing.

Personally, I eat the normal amounts. By dragon standards.

“With how eagerly you’re devouring your food, I would’ve thought you hadn’t eaten in years,” I tell her. “And really, beer first thing in the morning? People usually prefer coffee at this time of the day.”

Beidou gulps down her third pint of beer before slamming the glass on the table in front of her with a huff.

“‘Morning,’ he says. It’s about three in the afternoon.” She argues. “Besides, I hate coffee.”

“Ah, a kindred spirit,” I reply. “I can’t stand it, either. It’s bitter in all the wrong ways.”

It’s not even a good source of caffeine, either, at least for a dragon like me. I’d need fifteen shots of espresso before I feel something.

I prefer energy drinks, as sacriligous as that may sound to some. They taste better and typically have higher caffeine content.

“Right?” She smiles at me. “It’s nothing more than murky water that pretentious people pretend is the greatest thing ever invented.”

“Exactly what it is.” I nod in agreement. “If anything, I prefer tea. The sweet kind, of course.”

“I don’t drink much of that, either. But I like it more than coffee.” She says, waving the empty glass with a grin. “Rum and beer, though? Doesn’t matter the time of day. I’d drink it whenever and wherever.”

Truly, a woman after my own heart.

Beidou does seem significantly less moody now that she’s gotten something to eat. She didn’t seem hesitant to share some stories of her time as a pirate. Mildly fascinating tales of exploring deserted islands, defeating Treasure Hoarders and rival pirate crews, and vanquishing Abyss Order heretics.

She also told me about this Leviathan beast she had defeated once upon a time, as Hu Tao had mentioned yesterday. Some sort of giant monster that was lurking about past the sea of clouds, and while I’m not sure whether she is speaking the truth or it is nothing more than the boasting of a pirate, I am inclined to believe her.

After all, she did say she hated lies. Besides, I do not have a reference for how powerful the monster of Teyvat could be, and the only Leviathan I know that comes to mind is the boy my mother has recently shown a special interest in. I’m sure there’s no connection between the two, though, because, while I’ve never met him, I know he’s quite formidable, even with my true strength in consideration.

What was his name again? I know Carmine is a little fond of him, but I can’t recall what he’s called. The only thing I remember about him is how I felt his presence encroaching on one of my realms during what I think was a battle he was in. That’s how I know he’s powerful. It was quite the shock.

Had I not been drunk out of my mind at the time, I would’ve tried to investigate. Fortunately for him, I forgot to before I could. Perhaps when I’m done with my vacation here, I could pay him a visit.

But I digress.

“So, Crimson. Or I guess master,” Beidou begins after a moment of silence. Again, I never told her to call me that. “What do you plan on doing?”

‘To me’ was left unsaid. I am admittedly a little surprised that there’s not even a hint of resentment in her heart.

“What do you think?” I respond with a question.

“I’d expect more sex?” She guesses. “Clearly, a single night isn’t enough to satisfy someone like you. Frankly, I’m surprised you didn’t make me do more earlier today.”

“And I am surprised that you don’t hate me for this.”

“Why would I?” She replies with a raised eyebrow. “Like I said before, I wouldn’t have agreed to the deal if I weren’t okay with losing. Yes, I do think you’re deplorable for it, and if I ever find you an enemy on the battlefield, I wouldn’t hesitate to take your head.”

I wait for her to finish.

“But hate is a strong word, especially when there’s no one to blame here but myself.” She adds. “I lost fair and square, and now I’m paying the price.”

“You’re fairly reasonable,” I reply. For a pirate. “And you’re right. I’m not satisfied with just one night. Frankly, even three is too little for me, but why rush, right? To be honest, I’m more interested in finalizing our little business venture.”

Beidou blinks.

“You mean that’s still a thing?”

“Of course.” I nod. “Sure, I get to have you, but that’s more for personal pleasure. A little bonus I’m giving myself. I still wish to grow my business.”

“‘Little bonus’ is all I am to you, huh?” She frowns, sounding a little offended, before focusing on the matter at hand. “Whatever. How do you suggest we do this? I hope you realize I’m not willing to pay the full price anymore.”

“On the contrary, I’ll give you several barrels and kegs free of charge,” I tell her. “You travel a lot, so I wish you’d work with me, selling my products whenever you find yourself in other provinces like Fontaine or Inazuma.”

Beidou pauses for a moment, resting her head on her palm and looking at me with a thoughtful expression.

“This is a completely different deal.” She points out. “I’m happy to help spread the word about your drinks, especially seeing how good they are, but I’m a pirate, Crimson. Not a merchant.”

“What difference does it make? You tend to sell treasures you’ve looted off ancient temples or rival pirates for Mora, no?” I argue. “And for someone like you, I imagine Nine Lives products are as much of a treasure as gold and silver.”

Beidou thinks it over for a few moments.

“Let’s say I’m interested.” She eventually replies. “What do I get out of it? A cut?”

“How about your own personal supply of Nine Lives alcohol? Some you and your crew can enjoy for yourselves.” I offer. “Beer, rum, whiskey. As much as you could ask for.”

“Oh, really?” Beidou hums, becoming very interested. “From over a hundred million Mora to zero? Why the change of heart?”

“Well, I said it before, didn’t I?” I give her a teasing smile. “I like to treat my women well. How could I possibly ask you for payment?”

“Yeah, as if you’re not making me pay you with my body instead.” She scoffs. “From the Queen of the Crux Fleet to some common whore. Oh, how the great have fallen.”

Once again, despite what she’s saying, she doesn’t seem very upset.

“Besides,” She adds, squinting at me. “Whenever I leave Liyue again, I won’t be yours anymore.”

“Perhaps, but that doesn’t matter.” I shrug. She’ll come running back to me anyway. “As long as you honor our deal, I’ll be pleased.”

Beidou considers the offer, drumming on the table. It’s really a win-win deal for her. Even if she prefers money, she could always sell her own supply at an inflated price and earn even more. I wouldn’t mind, really. After all, I’m the only one who can produce it.

…Or, I guess Diona, but semantics.

I suppose Beidou is just a little cautious after everything that has happened between us.

“There’s really no way I can say ‘no’ to this, after all.” She sighs after a while. “Fine. You have a deal, master.”

Excellent.

“And now we’ve gotten this out of the way,” Beidou says, her tone becoming lower. “I hope you’ve noticed the little voyeur staring at us.”

Oh, good. It wasn’t just me.

She is sharper than most. Though she said ‘voyeur’. Singular. Perhaps she’s not aware of the other one?

“Are you kidding?” I snort. “I’d have more trouble noticing a bull charging at me.”

Truthfully, whoever they are, they’re much better than everything I’ve seen in Mondstadt. For one, I can’t pinpoint their exact location. One is above us somewhere, and the other is around us, perhaps blending into the crowds. I’ll admit, I’m a little impressed.

I suppose it’s understandable, too. Keqing did imply that I’m still under surveillance, as, although I’ve made it clear I don’t plan on being her enemy, she would rather be safe than sorry. Honestly, I can respect it.

…Are these two observing us for the same reason? It doesn’t feel like it. One is clearly cautious, but the other feels somewhat… amused?

Hmm…

“You can say that twice.” Beidou grins. “So, what do you plan to do about it?”

“For now? Nothing.” I shrug. “It’s not like what we’ve spoken about is confidential. Otherwise, we wouldn’t have done this in public.”

One of them suddenly left. The one who hid among the crowds. Did they notice we’ve spotted them?

“Hah. That’s boring.” The pirate queen pouts. “Well, probably for the best. I’d rather not make a scene, either.”

“Said the pirate.”

“Hey, I know when to pick my battles.”

“Clearly not.” I tease her with a smirk. “Otherwise, you wouldn’t be where you are right now.”

“Shut up.” She rolls her eyes. “As long as it’s nothing serious, I can afford a mistake here and there.”

“A mistake, you say? Here I was, thinking you were enjoying this game as much as I am.” I snort. “What with you calling me ‘Master’. Really, if you keep saying that, I might get the wrong idea, you know.”

“Oh, get over yourself.” She says. “You know I’m being sarcastic.”

“And what if I tell you to refer to me by ‘Master’ from now on?”

“You’d just piss me off,” Beidou answers with a frown. “And trust me when I say you don’t want me on your ass. I’d beat you black and blue the moment this three-day deal of ours ends.”

“Don’t threaten me with a good time, Ms. Pirate.” I fire back with a laugh. “Or I might just make you call me ‘Master’ for the rest of your life.”

Her frown deepens for a moment, but not in anger. Almost as if she’s perceiving my response as a challenge, her expression then shifts into a smirk.

“You’re still a despicable merchant, and I doubt anything would change that, but I’d be lying if I said you weren’t interesting in some way.” She admits. “…You know, all this food made me hungry in a different kind of way. You up for a round or two?”

I did want to confront whoever was observing us, but perhaps I can do that after I’m done with her.

“You’re taking your part of the deal very seriously, aren’t you? Almost like you wanted me to—”

“Don’t make me change my mind.”

“Alright, alright.” I chuckle. “Message received~”

Honest women really are the best.

Even more so when they’re honest with themselves.

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– Xianyun –

Seeing the so-called dragon for the first time, Cloud Retainer had to admit that he did not fit the image she had in mind. She’d expected someone more… elegant-looking, perhaps, but, besides his handsome face, he didn’t seem that eye-catching. On the surface, he felt like someone who was very easy to lose in a big crowd.

But she was old enough to know that looks could be deceiving, because the stench of blood emanating from him was unmistakably inhuman. It was no wonder that Ganyu had felt utterly petrified when she met him. She had the blood of one of the most peaceful creatures in the world, while Crimson was her total opposite. His mere presence was full of violence. Almost as if he thrived in it.

Of course, Xianyun knew that he wasn’t consciously projecting said presence. If anything, he was keeping it in check with an impressive level of self-control. But, well, with how sensitive the adepti were, there was nothing he could do. He could not have fooled her or her fellow adepti into thinking he was normal, no matter what he did.

She was proven correct when she felt him begin to notice her.

She’d seen him instinctively tense, his expression twitch, and his fists clench seconds after she had begun observing him from a distance, only for him to relax a moment later as if he had concluded that whoever it was that was watching him was no threat. Xianyun was very impressed by him.

Not only were his instincts out of this world, capable of sensing that he was being watched so quickly, but his attitude spoke of his experience. It was clear that he did not know exactly where she was; however, understanding that she meant him no harm was telling.

Of course, that was because she was only observing him at the moment, and if not for her fellow adepti and the traveler vouching for him, Xianyun might’ve attacked him right there and then. But she decided to give him the benefit of the doubt.

And she was definitely fascinated to an extent. What could a dragon be doing here? A vacation? As if she’d believe something like that. Certainly, he was here for something more, and she intended to find out what it could be. Though whatever it was, Xianyun didn’t think it was malicious in nature.

Wealth, perhaps? She’d managed to somewhat overhear his conversation with the pirate captain, who was jokingly calling him ‘master’ for some reason, and he sounded primarily interested in business. It would make sense since dragons symbolize fortune.

Admittedly, although equally careful, she was curious about this Crimson, but how could she not be? He was a dragon. An actual, living dragon. There were so few of them around that most mortals believed they were only a myth. Cloud Retainer could barely remember the last time she’d had a conversation with a dragon.

A conversation with him was too interesting to pass up. She knew she had to be cautious around him at all times, even when not in direct contact, but would it hurt to learn more about him and where he had come from?

Besides, taking the first step and proving that he meant no harm might give her adopted daughter the courage to approach him herself, who was apparently feeling increasingly guilty for how she’d reacted during their meeting. Poor Ganyu.

Peering over the paper in her hand and staring at the closed window of a nearby tavern, Xianyun frowned in a mixture of discomfort and annoyance, sensing the life essence of the dragon and the pirate captain in the same room. She was waiting for them to finish because she knew damn well what they were getting up to in there. She heard Beidou’s moans and the bed creaking as she passed by the first time.

Sometimes, Xianyun cursed her stronger adeptus senses. She did not need or want to hear that. And really, at this time of day? For two whole hours? Couldn’t they have done this another time?

Have patience. She thought in exasperation. They’ll be done any second now…

What a pain.