gacharolls | >> 007 | like a meet cute, but cuter

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>> 007 | like a meet cute, but cuter

[ Liyue.

It's a stark difference from the wintry climate of Snezhnaya, the heat almost unbearable if not for the fact he'd seen fit to shuck himself of his thick Fatui coat the moment they'd crossed into warmer waters. A few of the recruits on board who hadn't had the foresight of doing so lay slouched over in what precious shade there was, some gathered around the various Cryogunners of his unit in an effort to stave off the heat with the little bursts of frosty smoke issuing from the ends of their barrels.

There was already a branch of the Fatui stationed in Liyue operating under the banner of the Northland Bank, so the entire ride over Childe was debriefed on the goings on in country; he'd been shown the different names and files of the various figureheads in the city which he considered with only passing interest, given a brief lecture on some of the customs to better his relationship with the working class (which he didn't care for, at all; if anyone had any grievances with him they could meet him in the arena to fight for their cause), and then debriefed him on what their current objectives were, and their prime goal of ferreting out the Geo Archon to obtain his Gnosis for Her Majesty the Tsaritsa.

Which of course, they had no leads for. Naturally.

After disembarking the majority of the crew and the skirmishers see to their lodgings and moving their supplies therein; the imports they'd brought from Snezhnaya go through the arduous task of customs, the small Liyuen native standing rigid and imperious with a clipboard but immediately sent off on his merry little way with a plump bag of mora. Childe himself decides to at least meet with some of the established associates of the Fatui, the merchants and the chefs and some of the ruling council who've been lured to their good graces with the promise of mora and other added benefits.

The first stop is the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor, a recently acquired partnership that they were still in the process of cultivating. The owner was someone by the name of Hu Tao, who Childe imagined was a somber, elegant looking old man that smelled frequently of death. He was quite looking forward to meeting him.

Silk flowers seemed to be an important part of Liyue's customs - something about perfume, he's not sure - and he managed to secure a particularly exotic strain of it from one of the merchants working close to the docks. At least, they'd said it was exotic and that was why the markup was so high, but more than likely they'd just spotted a foreigner they could sucker with minimum effort and touted it as such.

Wangsheng Funeral Parlor looms overhead like an impenetrable fortress, and Childe lets out a deep breath before resigning himself to playing nice for the next hour or two. He enters the establishment and finds... nobody. Nothing. Is everyone out on a lunch break or something? ]

... Hello? Mr. Hu Tao?

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[ Childe isn't kept waiting for more than a few moments before two more people enter the parlor behind him - one tall elegantly dressed man in a suit that seems too formal even for a funeral parlor carrying a parcel wrapped carefully in brown paper, and a woman dressed in long black robes carrying a clipboard with a slightly exasperated look on her face. It is an expression that schools itself into polite solemnness when she realizes they have a guest. She bows both to Childe and Zhongli respectively before heading back to her station at the front door.

And so only Zhongli remains, his eyes drifting once to the mask clipped to the side of Childe's head as well as the various regalia pinned to his chest and scarf. At the very least, he does not seem surprised or wary of seeing a member of the Fatui in the establishment, and a Harbinger at that no less.

Zhongli inclines his head in the standard Liyuen greeting: ]

My apologies that no one was here to properly greet you upon your arrival.

Director Hu is currently indisposed at the moment, making her rounds of the harbor.

[ Peddling her discount coffins brochures and two-for-one coupons no doubt - one of which happens to be in plain sight on the front counter. With a swift and hopefully innocuous movement of someone tidying up their workspace, Zhongli attempts to discreetly slide said advertising abomination underneath a nearby scroll. Really now. Hu Tao and her first impressions. ]

If you wish to wait for her return, by all means---

[ And Zhongli gestures to their waiting room, ornate as well as a little old fashioned with two couches and a low table making up the bulk of the furniture. Vases of flowers adorn multiple surfaces - a testament to the line of work practiced here. ]

Make yourself comfortable. Otherwise, I could relay a message to her.

[ The first thing he notices, upon the arrival of the two employees, is that the man is dressed far too formally to be anything but the director of the establishment. Clearly, this is the Mr. Hu Tao they were speaking of. Childe puts on his best unassuming expression, bouquet of silk flowers at the ready - and then the brunet opens his mouth and relays the information that no, he is not the Director, and the Director is, in fact, a woman.

Childe just barely catches the way the man moves to tidy up the workplace, and his care and attention to the task is such that the next assumption perhaps could be forgiven.

This man works here in some kind of capacity.

He's not an employee, but someone much higher up.

He has an intimate knowledge of Director Hu's movements, not unlike a secretary but more like...

Ah, yes. This is probably the husband. ]

Please, there's no need to apologize. We could only give a guesstimate of our arrival in the Harbor, so if anything I should be the one apologizing for turning up so unexpectedly.

[ The silk flowers are offered, Childe's smile easy and good-humored behind it. Even though he doesn't have neither eye nor nose for flowers, he has to admit they do smell quite nice. It's not an overpowering smell, but it's not completely indistinct, either. ]

My name is Tartaglia, the Eleventh of the Fatui Harbingers. I don't have a message to relay, but I hope your wife finds these to her liking.

[ For many long and possibly awkward moments, Zhongli just looks at Childe in non-blinking incomprehension, one eyebrow raised well past his hairline. As if he has completely lost the thread of their relatively short conversation. Which, to be fair, he has. ]

[ But one, two, and three more moments pass, and he breaks onto into a small mirthful smile that is warring on whether it should look exasperated or amused at the current turn of events. Though really on his stony expression, the expression might as well be the equivalent of bursting into laughter. ]

Well met, Master Tartaglia. And welcome to Liyue Harbor. We have been expecting your arrival.

However, it appears that there has been some misunderstanding. Director Hu is not my wife, but my employer.

[ Yet he gracefully accepts the offered flowers from Childe, carefully turning the bouquet this way and that so that he may more closely inspect the coloring of the petals and formations of the leaves. Ah - quite a lovely specimen indeed. And practically screaming Bolai's handiwork.

He turns back to Childe with another incline of his head. ]

Might I introduce myself properly. I am Zhongli - a consultant here at the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor. And I will make sure that your quite generous gift reaches our Director.

She is rather fond of these, and you have quite the discerning eye. I am sure she will appreciate the humor and irony in receiving this particular strain of Golden House Maiden silk flowers.

Ah. [ Is all he has to say to that. Ah, as though he hasn't committed the worst kind of faux pas.

But at least the man - Zhongli - isn't laughing, and so Childe imagines that he's already been forgiven. The flowers are handed over without hesitation (he's trying and probably failing at looking like he wants to be rid of them altogether, embarrassment casting a faint blush over his cheeks) and he takes a moment to look at the way the man inspects the bouquet with the air of someone who is quite knowledgable in all things, flowers least among them.

He's actually quite pretty, Childe realizes with a start, and immediately pushes that thought out of his head. Fatui are hardly well-received in any city, no matter the benefits they might bring to it. He imagines Harbingers less so. It wouldn't do to establish any kind of personal connection with someone that was supposed to be a future business associate and - really, he should probably be putting that effort towards making good with the boss, especially if Zhongli was only a consultant.

That still doesn't keep him from staring overlong at Zhongli's gaze when he lifts them, wondering what god he had to beg favor from in order to have eyes like that.

The smile comes easy to his face, well-practiced, and he laughs a little as though that would offset some of his nerves. ]

I wouldn't call it discerning eye so much as just... dumb luck. They were the most expensive in the market, so I thought they would be valuable. Especially in a city like Liyue, isn't the act of trade and business an integral part of its culture?

[ How young and polite the Vanguard of the Tsaritsa is. By all accounts, Zhongli should not be surprised since Childe is almost infamously known for being the youngest of the Harbingers. The easygoing nature though - that is a bit of a surprise considering his reputation and his purpose here.

Perhaps that hidden knowledge is what allows Zhongli to ease up a little on his polite but ultimately formal countenance. Childe's easy smile is returned with just the faintest hint of one of his own. ]

Yes, it is one of the founding principles of our fair harbor. But the seller's price is not the only factor in which gives an item value. The buyer must also believe that the offered goods are worth pursuing.

[ Zhongli drifts around the room, procuring an unused vase and filling it with both the water and flowers before he sets it on the reception counter. A small mixture of vinegar and sugar are also added to add to their longevity. All the while, he never fully turns his back to Childe since that would be considered impolite (but also so he can always catch his expression as he speaks). ]

I'm sure you passed many suitable trinkets and gifts among Liyue's fine wares. And yet you have graced our halls with this in particular.

Luck may have indeed played a part, but I doubt it was done so blindly. Perhaps a second trip to the market will help prove my point.

[ While he's not practiced in the arts of subterfuge and manipulation, he can play his role remarkably well if the time comes for it. As much as he'd enjoy forcing the cooperation of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor through brute force, the presence of the Fatui in Liyue was still fledgling and it probably wouldn't do for them to get kicked out so soon after arriving. He doubted the Tsaritsa would be very pleased.

As such, it's easy enough for him to keep the smile on his face, though he can't help the way his gaze sharpens a little at watching this Mr. Zhongli move about, studying his every action and trying to explain away why something felt... off about him. The way he doesn't turn his back to him doesn't speak of manners or propriety (even if Childe was fairly inexperienced in that, too) but more of an animal unwilling to show its vulnerability to another person.

Unfamiliar as he is with the nature of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor's work, he imagines that they don't deal with combat in any aspect of their day-to-day dealings. Definitely not to the extent the Fatui do, so he wonders what this means for someone like their consultant. He cuts an impressive figure in that suit, admittedly, but it also makes it hard to differentiate the bulk of muscle from the bulk of cloth.

His gaze snaps to Zhongli's as he speaks, and although a lot of what he says is more eloquent than Childe is accustomed to on any given day - at least on the days he doesn't spend in Her Majesty's throne room, giving his reports - he finds himself hanging onto every word regardless. ]

You've only just gotten back. I'd hate to put you out again for a simple market trip.

[ His stomach chooses at that moment to remind him that he hasn't eaten for quite some time, and he pauses to consider the merits of what is effectively a business luncheon. Wasn't there something in Liyue's culture about conducting business over meals? He can't remember. ]

However... if you're feeling up to coming out with me for lunch, I wouldn't turn you down. Perhaps you could recommend me a good restaurant or two.

[ There is another pause in Zhongli's movements as the rumbling of Childe's stomach reaches his ears. And oh---

The host in him will simply not stand for that. The Harbinger is a guest in the country of Liyue, as much as the Qixing bemoan the presence of the Fatui and their bank in less than hushed whispers. And even moreso is Childe welcome as he is an integral component in Zhongli's contract with the Tsaritsa.

Besides, who is he to turn down any opportunity to proudly show off the splendor of his city?

With another incline of his head: ]

I would be honored to accompany you, Master Tartaglia.

[ Though then the question remains where should he take Childe. Only the best first impression of Liyue will do.

Zhongli turns toward Childe again, looking him over once to gauge the state of his now lunch companion. His windswept hair and the faint smell of saltwater hints that he has freshly arrived from the port. Though that may also have to do with the hydro vision so prominently displayed on his belt next to a peek of well-toned muscle and flesh that Zhongli hurriedly skips over as to not get caught staring.

How playful.

But that also cements Zhongli's decision. The restaurant he chooses should be equally bold. ]

Might I suggest we head to Wanmin Restaurant. Chef Xiangling, the head chef's daughter, has just recently returned from a trip up north where she was studying different varieties of Jueyun chilis. You will be hard pressed to find a more dedicated or creative chef within the harbor.

It would truly be a shame if you did not have a chance to sample at least one of her meals before she sets out again.

[ Watchful as he is, it would be impossible for Childe not to catch the way Zhongli looks him over, and if the Harbinger happens to stand up perhaps a little straighter to thoroughly make his assessment a good one, maybe the other wouldn't notice. He certainly wouldn't call him out on it, he thinks, because for all that Childe had made a rather embarrassing first impression the consultant had been nothing short of respectable and polite.

It helps, a little, but it does have Childe wondering what it would take to fluster his unflappable composure. ]

I'm fine with anything so long as it's good.

[ It's not like he had the luxury to be picky, and besides that; he was genuinely curious as to what this man's tastes might skew towards.

Wanmin Restaurant... ]

I'm afraid I'm not familiar with any kind of variety of chilis at all. There's not a lot that grows in Snezhnaya. I'll be interested to see how it tastes.

[ He imagines this entire trip will end up broadening his horizons in some form or another. In some ways that's probably a good thing. ]

If you have nothing else you need to do, shall we head out, then? I'll leave it to you to guide us, since I'm still getting my bearings of your lovely city.

[ Zhongli glances once more at where the hidden pamphlet lies before turning to Childe with a courteous nod. Surely he did not want to be here after the Director came back from gallivanting around the harbor telling stories he had heard one too many times about how scandalized the people were at her unconventional offers.

And surely such an occasion as meeting such an important member of the Northland Bank could be billed as a business expense to the Funeral Parlor. One who seemed so eager to explore the city besides no less. Even that small amount of flattery to his pride and joy brings a more genuine expression to his usually stony face.

Nothing else to do indeed. ]

You are too courteous.

Come.

[ Zhongli turns to head back outside, holding the door open for his esteemed guest as the Ferrylady steps off politely to the side to allow them passage. ]

I shall point out some other dining establishments that you may explore at your leisure. Though I warn you that some have quite the long waiting list.

I'm sure that won't be a problem for me. [ Liyue was a hub of commerce and trade. Who's to say he couldn't trade a little mora for a spot on a waiting list?

With one last look around the Funeral Parlor proper, and a little nod to the ferrylady as he passes her by, Childe is out on the streets again blinking in the bright Liyue sunshine and resisting the urge to stretch. The climate here is very different than what he's used to in Snezhnaya, and everything is so... bright. It's going to take a bit of an adjustment period, that's for sure, especially since he wasn't entirely sure how long his mission here was supposed to last.

He almost wishes that he could challenge Morax to a fight with the stipulation being Childe will get his Gnosis when he wins (not if, when, as though he isn't threatening his own life by challenging a six-thousand-something-year-old war god). Perhaps then he might have a clearer timeline on when he could return home.

It's fine, though. He supposes he can probably send home a few souvenirs in the meantime. There'd been a couple stalls he'd been eying on his walk here with a few colorful gadgets and toys Teucer and Tonia might like. ]

Is it always so warm here? [ He'll ask once Zhongli follows after him. ] I thought being near the ocean it would be a lot cooler...

[ Though of course, if you only have the wintery snowscape of a perpetual frosty land to compare it to, something even mildly warmer might seem a bit extreme. ]

Edited 2021-09-25 21:27 (UTC)

Warm?

[ Says the person bundled in a three piece leisure suit that lets barely a hint of wrist and ankle show as he makes his way down the street. This citizen of Liyue at the very least seems not at all bothered by the weather.

There's another not-so-discreet glance at Childe's exposed arms and midriff. Was he warm with even these non-standard adjustments to the Fatui uniform? ]

Perhaps not as warm as it is today, but the proximity to the water keeps the harbor temperate and humid. And the surrounding mountains as well as the blessing of the archon keep most of the more difficult storms at bay.

There are a number of places and water features both within Liyue and the surrounding countryside that can be used if you need to cool off. Might I recommend the area just south of Mt. Tianheng which is only a short walk from the city proper.

Alternatively---

[ He brings a hand to his chin, brows furrowing a little as he is lost in thought. Though Zhongli does warmly greet a number of people as they make their way to Wanmin. ]

Yes. I might have another idea.

[ While he hadn't asked for a geography lesson on Liyue's points of interest, he has to admit that the way that Zhongli explains it is less like a teacher giving a lecture and more like someone who is simply imparting a bit of wisdom. He's surprised at himself for how he's able to follow along and hang onto every word, but he imagines it's just the nature of meeting someone for the first time and wanting to make a good impression. It's hard to keep the dull, bored out of his mind expression from his face in most cases, and so far Zhongli had been nothing but charitable thus far. He's curious to see how their working relationship turns out.

It would actually seem like Zhongli has a good relationship with most of the people in Liyue, if the way they're met with so many casual and polite greetings is any indication. It's a little strange for someone working as what is effectively a mortician to receive such warm reception around the city.

He catches the look - how could he not, when he himself is looking at the consultant's face every time he speaks - and he wonders if the other, in his heavy, three-piece, dark colored suit, has taken some kind of offense to how he's dressed. Perhaps he's simply too polite to voice his opinions out loud? Is that the norm for Liyue culture?

Rascal that he is, Childe has to fight down the strong urge to undo just a few more buttons to get under the man's skin. He can afford to play nice for a day or two, surely. ]

I'd be open to suggestion, if you think it'll help. But I imagine I'll get more accustomed to the climate in the coming days.

You are a guest of Liyue. And she greatly values her hospitality. If there is something I can do to make your first days here more welcoming, I will see to it.

[ Oh, poor Childe. He only encourages Zhongli to keep talking as his attention stays focused on the conversation - not that Zhongli would stop even if he didn't have the Harbinger's full attention. Like a proud parent showing off their only child, his eyes light up as he points out the Liuli Pavilion and Xinyue Kiosk in the distance on their way to Wanmin, which is quite quaint and small and tucked away in a busy street of shops by comparison. More than a hole in the wall - but not by much. ]

Chef Mao. Might I order something in advance for our guest from afar before we settle in for the main course. He's come quite the distance and could use something refreshing.

[ The joyful reply of Chef Mao gets lost among the din of the crowd and other customers, but the answer seems to please Zhongli well enough as his lips tilt ever so slightly in a smile. ]

Ah yes. That's the one. With mist flower and qingxin.

[ Task complete, he turns to Childe and gestures for him to take a seat with the best view overlooking the harbor, the Snezhnayan ship still proudly moored at the docks. It's also close enough that they will be able to smell the aroma of the various dishes being prepared. ]

Please. Have a seat.

[ At Zhongli's invitation, how could he refuse? With only a brief look thrown out over the harbor and the sea beyond, Childe will move into the chair indicated and sits himself down with the air of someone that's not at all thrown off by their surroundings and who seems surprisingly well-adjusted despite being a newcomer to this land. Never let it be said that Tartaglia was not averse to adapting in most situations, despite the embarrassing faux pas he'd committed earlier. If Zhongli doesn't mention it, neither will he.

The restaurant is loud, and it would probably be more jarring if not for the fact that he's been around a number of his subordinates in the cold Snezhnayan winters, when one of the more recreational ways of keeping warm was huddling around a fire passing around a bottle of fire-water. He's used to the raucous comaraderie of his peers - and it can get rather raucous, when he thinks about it, the sort that's befitting an organization whose members could have their lives ruthlessly cut short without warning in their service to Her Majesty the Tsaritsa - so a place like this wasn't really much different.

Recalling to mind Zhongli's earlier order, he glances at the man out of the corners of his eyes before turning his full attention to the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor consultant. Idly, he wonders if Zhongli plans on removing his jacket or if he intends to sit and tuck in dressed as though he's ready to perform last rites at any given moment. ]

So, Mr. Zhongli. [ They have some time before the food arrives, he imagines. Childe will set his elbows on the table, mindful of the cutlery (though there doesn't seem to be any save a pair of decorative sticks? How strange, but who is he to dictate Liyue's sense of interior design) and regards his companion with an interested glint in his eye. ]

Tell me about yourself. What made you decide to get into the business of being a ... mortician?

[ There's really no nicer way to say it. Consultant seems like it's dressing it up when it really doesn't need to be dressed up. At the end of the day he imagines Zhongli will still handle the burial and ceremonies of the dead. ]

[ Zhongli settles across from Childe, not even so much as loosening his tie or removing his gloves at the table. It's as if the heat and humidity don't dare touch him save for how it makes the tips of his hair faintly shimmer amber in the midday sun. ]

A mortician?

[ Said with a bemused smile as he pours two cups of hot (in this weather?) tea, serving Childe first in a dark porcelain cup before filling his own. ]

While preparing one's physical body to be laid in its final resting place is part of the function of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor, that is but a portion of our responsibilities. Life is a journey - and as with all journeys there is an end, a final destination, and partings. The ceremony for those left behind and the celebration of one's life is just as if not more important than honoring the final wishes of the departed.

Furthermore, as the world changes ever so swiftly around us, it is important to honor the traditions of the past so that those that came before us and paved the way for the life we live today are not forgotten.

Every life and every memory is a precious thing, leaving marks upon the land both large and small in their influence.

It is an honor to be allowed to tell those tales. To see one chapter close so another can flourish.

[ He brings his own tea to lips on it, blowing on it just enough to disperse the steam before taking a sip. ]

Do you not agree?

[ Childe isn't sure what he'd been expecting as a response, but it hadn't been that. There's great care and meticulous detail put into the explanation, so much so that it feels more like a lecture rather than an answer. Perhaps it's a little of both, an answer given for the sake of being given while also granting him insight into the mindset of the Liyue people.

Wisps of steam and heat from his own teacup curl up into air lazily as Childe mulls over the other man's answer, thinking of how best to respond in kind. It feels almost as if Zhongli could have just said "a mortician is much more than that" and left the matter at that, but the fact he saw the need to further explain the nature of his profession speaks volumes. This is a man that is well-versed in eloquence and teaching, not limiting himself in ways that did not benefit his verbose nature.

To say Childe is a little charmed is an understatement. ]

You sound like a man of sentiment, Mr. Zhongli. I suppose one does not become the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor consultant through merit alone. There has to be some love for your profession. I can agree with you on that, at least.

[ Idly, he brushes knuckles over the porcelain of his cup, feeling heat bleed through the leather of his gloves. Somehow he doesn't think that imbibing in a hot drink would help him cool off in this weather. If he were in Snezhnaya it would be a different story. ]

As for everything else... I'm curious as to your feelings if it were someone that were... unsavory, I suppose. Someone of a less appealing sort. Would you still conduct business as usual for a murderer, Mr. Zhongli? Or is there a specific Liyue custom reserved for people of those ilk?

[ It's not meant to sound as tricky as it does. He's genuinely curious as to the other man's answer. ]

Professionally speaking, the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor has a contract with the people of Liyue to ensure that they assist fairly in the passing on of all of its citizens, regardless of wealth or status or deeds. Death comes for us all equally and without prejudice, so we would be prudent to act the same in such matters.

[ The answer is obviously well-practiced. Personal feelings had no place in the execution of established traditions - that was one of many reasons why employment at Wangsheng was appealing. Despite people's wariness of the Parlor, its function (both known and secret) had been well established for dozens of generations. It was the perfect occupation for a being as old as Morax to step away from the politics and intrigue that permeated all of Liyue while still being surrounded by the culture and history that he so loved.

Quietly, Zhongli takes another slow steady sip of his tea, brow furrowing as if he was not quite satisfied with that answer.

The question itself settled strangely within him. Surely one who wore his affiliation and title so freely as Tartaglia would know that "unsavory" and "murderer" were whispers and side glances aimed in the Fatui's direction.

Was this a test of Zhongli's own affiliation? ]

But you asked for my personal opinion of the matter if I am not mistaken.

[ There is a dull clink of porcelain on wood as Zhongli sets down his cup and laces his fingers together, leaning in slightly across the table to give his full and undivided attention to the Harbinger. ]

Might I ask you a question in return, Tartaglia?

[ Though he does not wait for an answer. ]

Who decides who is a murderer and who is not? All tales are colored through the lenses of those who tell them, and usually to the benefit of the victor. And though some reasons may be beyond my understanding, people typically do not act without their own motivations. From that perspective, should souls that were looked upon unfavorably in life carry such a stigma to their death?

[ It's interesting to note how the man already has an answer prepared, a generic, rehearsed answer that passes no judgement on any parties involved and sounds as though it's been given hundreds of times before. It's the sort of response he would expect from someone choosing to remain carefully neutral, the sort of response one would give in the face of their superior, as though anything else would spell trouble in the workplace or incite a pay cut. Not that he imagined Zhongli would have anything to worry about; he imagined that that silver tongue did more than just ply others with pretty compliments and eloquent words.

Subconsciously, he finds himself mirroring the other man and lifting his own cup to his lips for a sip. The liquid is scalding hot but does not carry the same flavor as the hot drinks he'd imbibed in in Snezhnaya. Tea is not exactly a luxury for him, but it wasn't something he drank often.

It's not a bad flavor, he decides, and that's really all he has time to think when Zhongli poses his question. His eyes cut a glance at the man over the rim of his cup, unblinking, assessing, and if there was any doubt as to whether or not Childe deserved to be a Fatui Harbinger, the unblinking, unsettling gaze he directed at consultant so effortlessly did wonders to quell any doubts. There's a sort of cold, ruthless calculation in them, as though every movement, every word the man made from here on out would be judged.

Given what he's seen of Zhongli thus far, Childe has no clue as to how the man will react. Thus far he's proven himself... unflappable, in the nicest terms. There's a stoic air about him and yet a warmth that bleeds through his composure, lending an enigmatic, curious air to this well-spoken, eloquent man. It's impossible to surmise his age given how his appearance is at odds with the way he speaks, and Childe finds himself uncertain in where he stands with the other man. Is he a junior or a senior? It's not like it matters in the long run, but still; curious minds wanted to know.

Understandably, Childe does not answer immediately. In the silence that follows Zhongli's question, he mulls over the flavor of the tea on his tongue, basks in the ambiance that is the sound of the restaurant and the scent of the sea bleeding in through the walls. ]

In this case, I would imagine it to be whoever brings you the body. Who so ever is left alive. [ Is it considered morbid to talk about death with one responsible for performing last rites? He doesn't think so. To any other person perhaps this question would be too heavy-handed for a first meeting, but Childe has and always will subvert expectations. It's in his nature to be unpredictable, he supposes. ]

And ultimately, it depends on who you ask. One who had some involvement with the victims in such a situation will say the murderer deserves nothing, while the family of the perpetrator involved might claim otherwise. I find it hard to believe that the people of Liyue are so easily forgiving, but given that I've only just arrived I suppose I'll have to find that out for myself. Hopefully I don't do anything that would incite the wrath of the people, in any case.

[ But even then he knows that wouldn't stop him from continuing with business as usual. He has never really been one to care for the opinions of people that don't matter, especially if they were directed at him in a negative way. Let people gripe where they will; should they really be willing to fight for the sake of their judgements, he would be more than happy to see them on the battlefield. ]

But you're answering a question with another question. That's terrible rude of you, you know. A simple yes or no would have sufficed, Mr. Zhongli.

[ "Hopefully I don't do anything that would incite the wrath of the people, in any case."

The statement is said so casually in contrast to the sharp probing gaze Childe levels at Zhongli over his teacup, it gives the consultant a moment's pause. Not because he is intimidated; archons no, not in the slightest. Though perhaps if he took a moment to think how a mortal civilian would react to that level of scrutiny, perhaps Zhongli would have settled on something other than an equally considering if less intense gaze back.

No, the pause is merely a result of being used to having nearly infinite time to ruminate over matters. And Zhongli can't help but envision the outcome of what this inevitable meeting will produce. Before Childe leaves the harbor, Zhongli imagines there may be one or many things that upset the people of Liyue depending on the chaos Childe stirs and how much he is able to divert the blame. Much of Zhongli's plans depend on the former, after all, and that ruthless grin Childe bears now was much more along the lines of his expectations when first meeting the Eleventh Harbinger.

Less so was the recollection of the new bouquet of silk flowers sitting on the Parlor's reception desk. Or the quaint discussion of worthiness. Intriguing.

It is many seconds after Childe has spoken before Zhongli realizes he hasn't replied or even taken another sip of his tea. Shaking his head softly, he snaps his attention back to the conversation at hand. ]

My apologies if I have overstepped my boundaries.

[ As well as gotten lost in his own mind. ]

Perhaps I should take this opportunity to learn more of Snezhnaya's rich culture in turn as a show of good faith toward our hopefully long-lived and mutually beneficial partnership.

[ And while Zhongli expresses a genuine earnestness in learning (cultural exchanges should be as fair and equal as any other endeavor), there is very little sense of remorse tucked behind his apology. A question was asked and he answered to the best of his ability in turn. Clarification is just another tool of fruitful discussions.

Nevermind that they had not know each other for more than dozens of minutes at most. ]

But to answer your previous question - yes, I will still conduct business as usual, Master Tartaglia.

I take my professionalism very seriously.

[ His eyes are pretty, Childe finds himself thinking in the silence that follows. Even without the shade of - what was that, red? gold? orange? - under his eyes to enhance his appearance, he thinks that he might still find himself admiring the lovely hue of his gaze without meaning to. Liyue seems to be predominantly colored in shades of crimson and gold, and he's not entirely sure if that's meant to be purely for aesthetic or if it has a deeper meaning. The red could very well symbolize the blood coloring their beloved god's hands in his defense of his city and his people, while the gold could stand for status and wealth. Both would probably be respectable ways to pay homage to the god that Liyue seemed to adore so much.

In hindsight, he imagines it would be very hard to look at Zhongli and not assume what city he was from. It's almost charming, in a way. ]

You'll very quickly find out I'm not the sort of person to be picky about those sorts of things. [ Less so with his skirmishers, but that's on a case-by-case basis. He's certain they very quickly learned that Tartaglia's orders weren't meant to be questioned because the Eleventh was more than happy to dole out punishment at a moment's notice for transgressions against him. Usually this would entail a series of grueling "combat exercises" meant to instill discipline and respect, though seldom ever ended without someone being sent for emergency care. Let it be known that Childe never held back even the opportunity asked for it. ]

Besides - if we are to become well-acquainted then it would be in our best interests to get to know each other better. You might not realize it, but your answer has told me everything I need to know about you. Color me impressed.

[ In this business, at least, strict professionalism was practically a blessing. There were too many that let their emotions sway them and Childe had no patience for it when there was a job to be done. That wasn't to say he was completely heartless; just that the Tsaritsa's will took precedence over everything else and he had made it his personal goal of seeing thoughts through for Her sake. ]

I have a feeling we're going to get along just fine.

Everything?

[ Finally, there is a quirk of the lips that is not brought about but politeness or gratitude, but by amusement. Ah, to be so young and brash and fishing for a particular reaction. How very quaint of the Vanguard.

If Childe's words were true, this would make it all the smoother to keep one eye on him as he carried out his mission. And perhaps fish for one or two answers of his own design. ]

Not that I doubt your assessment of our future endeavors, but that is quite a bold statement to make from one question. Am I to ask you one of equal weight in turn?

[ But what to ask? What to ask.

It is just that precise moment when the waitress interrupts them, a short waif of a girl wrapped in traditional working linens and a plastered on customer service smile. She stares at Childe's hair for just a touch too long, unused to such a vibrant natural coloring or perhaps lingering over the mask pinned to the side of his head.

She catches herself quickly enough though, inclining her head politely as she hands him an iced treat on a piece of thin flat wood rivaling the blue hue of his vision. It's already starting to melt at the edges from the Liyue humidity as she holds it gingerly at the very base of the stick. ]

Your order, sir.

[ Congratulations, Sir Harbinger.

His new business associate just ordered him a popsicle. ]

[ Conversing with Zhongli is much like an exercise in strategy, he thinks. There are many things about the man that seem unnecessarily covert, but it's not something he can quite put his finger on. Perhaps it has to do with the nature of his profession, the nature of their future business partnership. If such is the case he should only be glad that Zhongli does not seem like a man possessed of loose lips, but given the secrecy and the subterfuge he's encountered in the Fatui (amongst his coworkers, especially, though he imagines that it's personal reasons rather than anything else that keep them tight-lipped around their newest Harbinger) it's always a little jarring and suspicious to encounter it outside of his regular coworkers.

It almost makes it seem like the man has something to hide.

Disregarding his own brimming curiosity, Childe will turn his attention to the newly arrived waitress. He'd almost forgotten that Zhongli had ordered for him prior and he had to admit he was a little interested to see what had been brought for him.

A popsicle was definitely not on the list of foods he'd expected and there's a significant pause before he reaches out and takes the stick from the waitress as though half-expecting her to pull it back and declare everything a jest. His eyes, too, slide over to where Zhongli's seated, watching the man for any outward sign that this wasn't what he should be doing and this was just some weird Liyue hazing ritual.

He's sitting there with popsicle in hand a few minutes later and the very odd realization that this was something intentionally done. It's hard to mistake the gesture as anything other than one of hospitality and that's probably what makes it even more bizarre. ]

Er. Thank you.

[ It would be rude not to eat it, right? So he's just going to pop the end of it into his mouth, gently, the cold treat immediately doing wonders for the heat all around him. ]

You are very welcome. While mist flower can be considered a rather exotic ingredient due to the difficulties in harvesting it, there are few ingredients that serve as a better palette cleanser. A necessity for your first taste of Liyue cuisine. The cooling properties should also help soothe some of your weather related acclimations.

[ The amusement in Zhongli's expression has smoothed back to the previous politeness as Childe tastes the offered treat. Problems with immediate solutions should be dealt with swiftly - lest they crop up as larger problems later. And since Zhongli was certainly not going to compromise his intended spread for the Harbinger with only cold dishes or even worse cold tea (the appeal was utterly lost on him), he could only be pleased that Childe did not seem averse to beginning this lunch with more or less dessert.

(Food as a hazing ritual - what a terrible thought.)

But speaking of spread, Zhongli turns to the waitress before she has a chance to depart: ]

We'll take Xiangling's specials of the day as well as an order of the Jueyun Chili Chicken served cold.

[ The waitress bows in affirmation before disappearing back into the throng of customers. Zhongli's gaze follows her for a moment, lost in thought and full of pride, before they snap back to the Harbinger with the force of his full attention. ]

I hope you don't not mind I took the liberty of ordering for the two of us. In this particular instance, it is best for us to leave the decisions to our capable chef.

[ Though he does look just the tad bit sheepish and comments mostly to himself: ]

Ah, perhaps I should have asked if there were any foods you disliked.

[ It's laughable how effective the cold treat is, a fact he reflects on absently as the popsicle soothes the heat of his mouth and, by extension, the heat of his body relative to the Liyuen heat. He can only wonder how the other Fatui members are faring; the coats that his agents wear tend to be rather heavy to make up for the unforgiving cold in Snezhnaya. ]

"Weather related acclimations", huh... [ Which was perhaps the most polite way he imagined Zhongli could say it, and that was interesting enough by itself. Despite their earlier talk the man seemed to present himself as a perfect gentleman at all times. His mannerisms and dialect were such that Childe felt like he was conversing with a respected elder rather than a business associate, and he'd be lying if he said he wasn't intrigued.

Zhongli couldn't have been much older than he was; a few years, give or take, but nothing greater than a decade. Perhaps his way of speaking was just the norm for people in Liyue. ]

Not at all. Though I do appreciate the consideration, but my tastes aren't nearly so varied.

[ That was to say nothing of his own specialty dish; it was probably the most varied he could get. But it's not as if he's the chef in this restaurant, and, quite frankly, the thought of toiling over a hot stove did not sound appealing in the least. ]

You must come here quite a lot if you know everyone here by name. Do they have a chair with your name carved into it, as well?

[ The popsicle is soon reduced to the stick it came on and he looks about for a place to set it. Dropping it on the floor seemed just rude... ]

[ Zhongli's lips quirk in just the hint of a smile at the statement. It is fascinating how the Hargbinger can shift so seamlessly from probing to pleasant and even to teasing. How easy and genuine a smile appears on his face. ]

Surely you jest. While I do favor this particular spot, I would never wish to claim dominion over any part of it. This food and this view should be enjoyed by all who take the time to come and savor such an experience.

Futhermore---

[ Leather-gloved fingers trace along an imperfection in the wooden table in front of them. It is the differences and imperfections that make each place beautiful after all. ]

Gastronomy is an art with as much rich history of that of the poets of Liyue or the operas of Fontaine. Just as credit is given to every playwright and orator, so too should our chefs be honored.

I believe this to be true for all walks of life.

[ And what is Childe going to do with that popsicle stick? Zhongli talks on completely oblivious to his current dilemma. One supposes the saucer for his teacup could be used or perhaps the serving plate meant for communal dishes. And--- well, the floor is always another option... ]

[ Dominion is definitely a strange way to describe it, certainly too important, too weighted for the simple nature of being given a designated chair in the restaurant. While Childe hadn't considered a tribute of that sort to be anything so... lasting (chairs were replaced over time and surely in the years it took for them to do so Zhongli would have found a different restaurant to catch his fancy or else moved away from the city altogether) it was interesting to see the consultant's thoughts on the matter. For someone like Zhongli it would seem he had no intentions of leaving the harbor.

Perhaps he shouldn't be all that surprised. Snezhnaya, after all, was filled with all manner of people who had yet to step foot beyond the Tsaritsa's borders. People tended to settle, and for all the impressiveness that Zhongli exhibited, all the intelligence that was too broad and too diverse for a recluse in Liyue, perhaps he was content to stay where he was.

The saucer looks like a suitable place to set down his popsicle stick and he moves to do so, turning it discreetly so it wouldn't be jostled every time his hand moved to pick up his teacup. If Childe catches Zhongli staring he pretends not to notice, instead folding his hands together and resting his chin atop his laced fingers as he listens to the consultant talk on.

Admittedly, despite that Childe may not have much of a vested interest in what he's saying, he finds it hard to really tune the other man out. Zhongli speaks with a richness in his voice that challenges the deposits of ores in the mountains with tones that are meant to educate and not condescend.

Mentally, he adds humble to the list of identifiers he's using to describe the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor consultant in the report he'll inevitably write up. A beat later and he reconsiders if only for the sake of appearing impartial. ]

Have you ever been to Fontaine, Mr. Zhongli? You strike me as the sort of person who's enamored with his city enough that he'd rather not be away from it.

[ Sharp, pointed and confident - the Eleventh's line of questioning is more akin to a tactician probing at an enemies' defenses to uncover less guarded positions and potential weak points in comparison to the web of intrigue and mutually beneficial possibilities spun by the Fair Lady in their first encounter.

Zhongli should not be surprised really. He had been informed that Childe was a warrior first and foremost, so this exchange of strike and parry (friendly as it is) should have been wholly expected. Especially when ascertaining the nature of a potential business associate.

And yet, he finds himself charmed by this interaction all the same. So much that he does not bother to reign in the huff of amusement at Childe's "accusation". ]

Ah, am I so transparent? I do not know if I should be concerned or pleased that you came to such a conclusion so easily.

Rest assured, you are quite sound in your logic. I do lack some of the wanderlust that others have - content to explore the nooks and crannies of my beloved harbor rather than wander too far from my home.

[ He brings a hand up to his chin, resting it there thoughtfully for a moment before his eyes glaze over to see something that is not there - has not been then for many hundreds of years. The gold of his eyes deepen for just a moment - like a trick of the light as he recalls the last time he walked down the city streets of Fontaine to meet with their newest Archon about one of their missing Oceanids deciding to take up residence in Liyue. What a tense conversation that had been. ]

Though I have been to Fontaine before - a long time ago. I imagine much has changed since I last visited. Technology and innovation was always one of their strong points.

[ And then his eyes snap back into focus, Childe once again encompassing the whole of his focus. More than once Director Hu had teased him for losing himself to the siren song of his memories. An eccentric quirk for an eccentric consultant. But this meeting - the foundation of this partnership - was much too important to have anything but his undivided attention. ]

You yourself seem well-traveled, and I can only imagine your duties take you to all corners of Teyvat.

Have you ever had the pleasure of visiting Fontaine, Master Tartaglia?

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

>> 007 | like a meet cute, but cuter

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1/3

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SORRY FOR THE DELAY holidays and ffxiv ate me

And me 5 months later...

<3 I am very patient, don't worry!!

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