I love submissive!Hua Cheng, but I think the conversations he and Xie Lian would have to have to establish a d/s dynamic would take a while. Xie Lian doesn't understand at first why Hua Cheng wants to be placed in a subservient position, and it reminds him too much of the oppression and hierarchy that heaven imposed.
Hue Cheng explains that it makes him feel safe and cared for. He doesn't want to play with being forced into a subservient role, he wants to be Xie Lian's favored worshiper. Also, he has fun with appearing as Xie Lian's pet ghost king, freaking all of heaven out when they visit.
After that, Xie Lian is more than happy to allow Hua Cheng to place him on the divan that sits above the gamblers den and kneel at his feet, head in Xie Lian's lap. It's nothing like Xie Lian had feared at first. Plus, he enjoys having his love exactly where he wants him, safe and happy and free from all worry.
