钟离 [ Zhōnglí ] (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
lapisdei) wrote in ![[community profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/community.png)
hugtopia_logs2021-01-06 12:07 am
lapisdei) wrote in hugtopia_logs2021-01-06 12:07 am
Entry tags:
Vago Mundo // OTA
♥ Who: Zhongli + anyone!
♥ Where: Diacht temple, other temples, shopping district
♥ When: Jan 4th
♥ What: Zhongli arrives on the scene
♥ Rating: PG for language.
[a.] Temple visits
[ After waking and being introduced to the situation via the automata priests, Zhongli would spend quite a bit of time slowly wandering the halls, indulging in the artistry of the architecture, as well as the many small details that reminded him of home.
He was quite pleased to be a patron of Diacht's, given how their values aligned, though other reservations on the matter of deities was held on his tongue. Being one himself, he wondered about the burdens and machinations placed on the present deity's shoulders, and what secrets the temples held.
[ If found in Diacht's temple, Zhongli would be asking a priest about the decorations and their purpose. The priest would begin to explain, but upon catching sight of someone else, suggest that Zhongli might be better off asking another off-worlder about these customs than themselves.
[ If found in any other temple, Zhongli would be asking about the local deities and their customs, and if approached, would happily ask the other off-worlder what they think of the temple. ]
[b.] Terrible Luck
[ After leaving one of the temples, perhaps with someone else, perhaps not, Zhongli's attention was caught by a fortune teller drawing in patrons, and he couldn't help but to approach and inquire about the tellers' wares.
Upon explanation, he found it quite charming, and asked to be given a fortune. He couldn't read it, but the automata distributing them kindly read it for him and handed the paper back to him. He stood in place for a moment, looking at the illegible script, and pondered the meaning for a minute. ]
That does fit the moment--thank you for your time.
[ He turned to leave the booth, be it with whomever walked out with him, or, if he left the temple alone, so he left the booth alone, as well. However, it wouldn't be long at all before some poor unfortunate soul near Zhongli would see a very tall, resplendently dressed man promptly slip in the snow and Eat Shit with the most graceful of barks. He'd sit up and wipe the snow off of the thighs of his pants and try to brush his hands dry off one another, and did a fine job of hiding just how distraught he was.
Zhongli would then manage to stand up, but a chunk of ice caught under his heel, and down he went again, this time landing on his back with a winded grunt.
He knitted his brows, but patience was still exercised. He'd stand and dust himself off a second time, and make a few meters of progress before sliding. For the way he skated down the walkway, one might think he was clumsily cruising along on heelys, but no. The ice just really seemed to have it out for him until a light post became his unlikely savior. Zhongli cleared his throat, smoothed out his coat, and the very moment he let go of the pillar, a native of this world went running by, bumped their shoulder to his, and down he went into the snow again. ]
I'm beginning to think I'll have better luck staying down here for now. [ He seemed more resigned, though the stiffness in his tone started to betray his irritation at the sudden bout of mechanical difficulty he was having at the moment. ]
[c.] Little soldier boy come marching home
[ Zhongli had not yet chosen a home for himself. He wanted, instead, to take his time, as he preferred with all things, and give the decision due care and consideration. A kindly native of the world explained the amenities were all the same in the provided housing, and the only real available customization was to be had by choice of roommates and location.
It was a small thing, but he wanted to take the time to decide whether or not he wanted others living with him, so for now, he asked where he could get a cup of hot tea and found the described location.
[c.1] Upon finally making it to the front of the line and placing an order for ginger and chamomile tea, he was then, of course, asked to pay. Zhongli paused, thoughtfully so, but then quickly followed up the moment by asking how to pay. The barista just gave him a tired glance, but otherwise was kind enough to explain how to perform the transaction. ]
Ah, thank you. It would seem I don't have any of your currency, though.
[ Zhongli didn't seem at all embarrassed or perturbed. Only a little disappointed and saddened that he wouldn't be getting his tea, and wasted the time of those around him. ]
[c2.] A kindly patron had paid for his tea inside, and after graciously thanking them, he took a seat at one of the dainty tables and cupped the tea gently in both hands, relishing the warmth of the cup. He also took his time lingering over the rim of the cup, letting the steam rise and tickle his nose and forehead to chase away the last lingering chill of winter from outside, and to also enjoy the sweet, light aroma of ginger and chamomile. It would be some time before he took his first sip and set the cup carefully down on the table with a purposeful presence of mind. ]
Though wonderfully brewed, I will say this tea tastes...off. Not necessarily bad, and I compliment the staff's understanding of a finely brewed cup of tea, but there's a certain element to it that I can't describe. A unique quality, likely a result of the components having different qualities from those of home.
[ Zhongli also asked what his company suggested to enjoy as a snack with tea--since he was so unfamiliar with the options--and he of coursed asked politely if they would like to order some. As it sat on the table next to his cup, however, he gave the pastry(he had decided on a cinnamon roll, thinking the cinnamon would pair well with the ginger and chamomile) a curious look, then looked to his companion. ]
Will I need a fork to eat this?
[d.] Wildcard
[ Is there anything in particular you want to drag Zhongli into? Feel free to! I'll happily go along with whatever. Don't @ me for the title of the c option if you know the reference. >:) ]
♥ Where: Diacht temple, other temples, shopping district
♥ When: Jan 4th
♥ What: Zhongli arrives on the scene
♥ Rating: PG for language.
[a.] Temple visits
[ After waking and being introduced to the situation via the automata priests, Zhongli would spend quite a bit of time slowly wandering the halls, indulging in the artistry of the architecture, as well as the many small details that reminded him of home.
He was quite pleased to be a patron of Diacht's, given how their values aligned, though other reservations on the matter of deities was held on his tongue. Being one himself, he wondered about the burdens and machinations placed on the present deity's shoulders, and what secrets the temples held.
[ If found in Diacht's temple, Zhongli would be asking a priest about the decorations and their purpose. The priest would begin to explain, but upon catching sight of someone else, suggest that Zhongli might be better off asking another off-worlder about these customs than themselves.
[ If found in any other temple, Zhongli would be asking about the local deities and their customs, and if approached, would happily ask the other off-worlder what they think of the temple. ]
[b.] Terrible Luck
[ After leaving one of the temples, perhaps with someone else, perhaps not, Zhongli's attention was caught by a fortune teller drawing in patrons, and he couldn't help but to approach and inquire about the tellers' wares.
Upon explanation, he found it quite charming, and asked to be given a fortune. He couldn't read it, but the automata distributing them kindly read it for him and handed the paper back to him. He stood in place for a moment, looking at the illegible script, and pondered the meaning for a minute. ]
That does fit the moment--thank you for your time.
[ He turned to leave the booth, be it with whomever walked out with him, or, if he left the temple alone, so he left the booth alone, as well. However, it wouldn't be long at all before some poor unfortunate soul near Zhongli would see a very tall, resplendently dressed man promptly slip in the snow and Eat Shit with the most graceful of barks. He'd sit up and wipe the snow off of the thighs of his pants and try to brush his hands dry off one another, and did a fine job of hiding just how distraught he was.
Zhongli would then manage to stand up, but a chunk of ice caught under his heel, and down he went again, this time landing on his back with a winded grunt.
He knitted his brows, but patience was still exercised. He'd stand and dust himself off a second time, and make a few meters of progress before sliding. For the way he skated down the walkway, one might think he was clumsily cruising along on heelys, but no. The ice just really seemed to have it out for him until a light post became his unlikely savior. Zhongli cleared his throat, smoothed out his coat, and the very moment he let go of the pillar, a native of this world went running by, bumped their shoulder to his, and down he went into the snow again. ]
I'm beginning to think I'll have better luck staying down here for now. [ He seemed more resigned, though the stiffness in his tone started to betray his irritation at the sudden bout of mechanical difficulty he was having at the moment. ]
[c.] Little soldier boy come marching home
[ Zhongli had not yet chosen a home for himself. He wanted, instead, to take his time, as he preferred with all things, and give the decision due care and consideration. A kindly native of the world explained the amenities were all the same in the provided housing, and the only real available customization was to be had by choice of roommates and location.
It was a small thing, but he wanted to take the time to decide whether or not he wanted others living with him, so for now, he asked where he could get a cup of hot tea and found the described location.
[c.1] Upon finally making it to the front of the line and placing an order for ginger and chamomile tea, he was then, of course, asked to pay. Zhongli paused, thoughtfully so, but then quickly followed up the moment by asking how to pay. The barista just gave him a tired glance, but otherwise was kind enough to explain how to perform the transaction. ]
Ah, thank you. It would seem I don't have any of your currency, though.
[ Zhongli didn't seem at all embarrassed or perturbed. Only a little disappointed and saddened that he wouldn't be getting his tea, and wasted the time of those around him. ]
[c2.] A kindly patron had paid for his tea inside, and after graciously thanking them, he took a seat at one of the dainty tables and cupped the tea gently in both hands, relishing the warmth of the cup. He also took his time lingering over the rim of the cup, letting the steam rise and tickle his nose and forehead to chase away the last lingering chill of winter from outside, and to also enjoy the sweet, light aroma of ginger and chamomile. It would be some time before he took his first sip and set the cup carefully down on the table with a purposeful presence of mind. ]
Though wonderfully brewed, I will say this tea tastes...off. Not necessarily bad, and I compliment the staff's understanding of a finely brewed cup of tea, but there's a certain element to it that I can't describe. A unique quality, likely a result of the components having different qualities from those of home.
[ Zhongli also asked what his company suggested to enjoy as a snack with tea--since he was so unfamiliar with the options--and he of coursed asked politely if they would like to order some. As it sat on the table next to his cup, however, he gave the pastry(he had decided on a cinnamon roll, thinking the cinnamon would pair well with the ginger and chamomile) a curious look, then looked to his companion. ]
Will I need a fork to eat this?
[d.] Wildcard
[ Is there anything in particular you want to drag Zhongli into? Feel free to! I'll happily go along with whatever. Don't @ me for the title of the c option if you know the reference. >:) ]
HEHEHEHE
They're both in unfamiliar territory, and as much as Childe hates to admit it, he wants allies. There's no Fatui subordinates for him to order around here, and for as airheaded and forgetful Zhongli seems to be, he's... Not the worst pick.
He steps over, holding out the hand he asked for.]
What even happened to you? This seems pretty out of character, I have to admit.
[A beat.]
Are you drunk?
[Can Zhongli even get drunk? His words aren't slurred, but it's still a possibility! Drunk people don't have coordination!]
no subject
Were he younger, though, he just might have thrown a very well-aimed snowball at Childe. But he's wizened, and Childe is far too adapted to the cold for any kind of snow-based retaliation to matter, anyway. Rest assured though, Zhongli Will Remember That, and even the scales in his own subtle ways.
In the interim, he took the hand and hesitated for a moment, making sure he had his footing, before hefting himself up with the offered arm. ]
Ah, thank you. [ He set right to brushing himself off, and stood perfectly still, not willing to test his luck just yet. ]
Me? No. [ It was said a little more sternly, but his tone evened out again. ] I've a tempered sense of self-control regarding alcohols. An unfavorable streak just befell me at the moment, as they are wont to do for us all from time to time.
Though seeing you here, I have to wonder if anyone else from our humble world will be forcibly entered into contracts with the Archons here.
no subject
He doesn't even consider that Zhongli would retaliate, but not considering there's more to Zhongli than what you can take at face value was part of his downfall.
(Though is it much of a downfall if his mission still succeeds? Yes, because it was Signora who got the prize.)
He pats Zhongli on the shoulder, curious if it'll make him topple over again, before taking a step back and giving him space.]
Yeah? Seems like it was more than just unfavorable, but I'll let you keep your secrets.
[Not at all surprised by his stance on liquor, tbh. He seems like a buzzkill, so to speak.
His easy grin gets sharper at the mention of Havenwell's gods, and he lets out a cold laugh.]
Yeah, they've got some guts dragging us into this, huh? Can't say I'm too keen to worship any of them.
[He belongs to the Tsaritsa and the Tsaritsa alone, and none of these gods can compare to the Archon.]
Not sure anyone else would, with how important the Archons are for most people. And with you being a god yourself... Are you going to bend to their whims?
no subject
After a moment of testing his footing, and shifting his weight to make sure he felt steadier on his feet, he huffed with a brief laugh, and stood upright again with a short sigh and let Childe finish speaking. ] Ah.
I'm sure you can appreciate the necessity of the proper letting of information, however, I have been known to both slip on ice and be burned by hot grease.
Ultimately, I will, yes. The terms, while easily upheld, and the rewards for doing so appear favorable, when reading between the fine lines, there's no real choice in the matter. I do plan on negotiating and speaking with them further on the matter, if possible.
[ He'd taken a few tentative steps and tested his footing as he spoke, and found he, luckily, had no more troubles with the ice, and so continued towards where the priests indicated the housing district was. ]
If you would consider assisting me with the assessment of the automata here, then I would be happy to bring you along when I revisit the shrine.
no subject
He raises an eyebrow at Zhongli, considering his words for a moment.]
It's not much of a contract if we didn't get to negotiate beforehand. Shouldn't you be angrier?
[He's pretty angry, after all. And he's more than ready to blaspheme - as far as he's concerned, these gods don't need his worship. They should have brought in somebody else, if they wanted someone to sing their praises and believe in them.
Not to mention he doesn't buy half the things the machines here say. He keeps hearing things about restoring the world, but... The methods are suspect.]
But, yeah, sure, I can talk to 'em - it's not every day you get to see the God of Contracts in action, so I can't miss that!
[He falls into step with Zhongli, still watching to see if he's going to fall. It was really funny, okay?]
What have you found out so far? Four gods, city's in a bubble, we need to bring life back to the world, that's all a given.
no subject
He just didn't have a tendency to indulge in wine at any given opportunity. Barbatos had his fondness for the varied flavors of alcohol, and Zhongli his own similar tastes in regards to teas. ]
I am, but this is a very different world from ours. [ From the one he helped build. ] Of which he know precious little, so what energy is to be gained from wrath would be more wisely spent first understanding what leverage we can create. Then we can consider attempting to level the scales in what ways we can, considering I don't mind lending assistance to this realm, but it will be on just terms.
[ Zhongli slowly blinked, knowing Childe was just prodding him for answers. Testing his reputation. Childe was a smart young man, and with a small, pleasant huff and a smile, he respected such in how he talked to the mortal. ]
Thank you. I'm afraid there won't be much to see initially. I'll only be approaching them concerning arrangements for Liyuan New Year and the Lantern Festival for now, since you're presently as knowledgeable on the situation as I am.
no subject
Which is probably why all of the tea he's had with Zhongli was just bafflingly expensive to him and he didn't appreciate it nearly as much as he should.
He also hates it when Zhongli has a point, more so now than before. He rolls his eyes and waves a hand.]
Yeah, yeah. Can't exactly go storming the palace when there's no palace to storm.
[He's still unused to gods and Archons being so distant... He's well aware that Barbatos leaves Monstadt to its own devices, and Morax was supposed to keep far away from Liyue all but once a year, but the Tsaritsa was always there. As a Harbinger, he could see her whenever he wanted to, but even before then, when he was just Ajax, he knew she was in the Palace and was looking out for their home.
He hasn't heard of much contact from these gods, yet, and he's not sure what to make of that.]
...Liyuan New Year?
[That's... Not what he was expecting. His brow furrows, and he thinks he's heard of the holiday before when he was doing research on Liyue, but he didn't get the chance to experience it himself.]
You're - Seriously? We're seriously going to throw Liyuan New Year?
[...He can't be surprised, but also, he's kind of surprised.]
no subject
Before them, natives and travelers alike moved to and fro, and it could almost be like home for how bustling it was, but alas, it lacked a certain warmth of charm to him. Even so, he moved first and lead them towards where the priests dictated the housing district would be. ]
Arguably it's possible, but there's no sense stabbing oneself in one's own foot when there are better options available.
But yes, Liyuan New Year. [ The content smile stayed upon his face, and was now rather self-satisfied.
Rest assured, Rex Lapis missed being more involved with his peoples, but they no longer needed him hovering over them and governing their lives; their confrontation with the God of The Vortex proved that well enough to him. Courtesy of one Childe. True, he was very proud to see them become so strongly independent and carry theirselves in all things with unyielding honor and grace, and he longed for the days he did once walk among them and revel in their love, Zhongli's people were ready to fly the nest he'd made for them. And as they found their wings, Zhongli had one final contract to uphold. ]
It's safe to assume I won't be present in Liyue to be part of the celebrations there, and it's our most important holiday spanning the entirety of the month, so yes. I'm going to inquire about hosting Liyuan New Year celebrations.
I'm glad to hear you're interested in assisting me with the preparations, as they'll be no small task. [ He heard that 'we,' Childe. He heard it. ]
no subject
[He watches the natives passing by, everyone who's from another world like they are sticking out like sore thumbs. He's still not quite sure what to make of the natives themselves - it seems strange, to make yourself a machine, but they're nothing like the automatas he's found roving Teyvat. Nothing at all like Ruin Guards Dottore was researching, and he's not sure if it's because they used to be people or something else.
He scratches the bridge of his nose, considering. It did seem like a big deal, which was strange. New Years in Snezhnaya was the same time as everywhere else, but luckily or unluckily you'd get a week off work until the next holiday. It had been decided that working and toiling when there was another holiday was around the corner was foolish, or something. The decision had been made when he was a child, but his family, at the time, had been too poor with too many children to feed to take advantage of the break.
But the Liyuan celebration sounds so much more like an actual celebration, which means...]
And, well, I'm mostly curious how you're planning on funding this whole thing if the priests don't give you a budget - or in the more likely case, if your plans exceed the budget you get. Mora doesn't exactly carry weight, here.
[Not that he woke up with much on him - all he had was his uniform, his Vision and Delusion, and the Mr. Cyclops action figure he swore he gave to that traveler to give to Teucer.]
no subject
As for funding, while I'm afraid I can no longer manifest Mora anyway, contracts need not only be a vessel for trading Mora. Things such as goods and services can also be for trade, even personal time and effort are valuable tools.
[ He still had a pleasant smile on him as the empty houses came moreso into view. They were quaint little abodes, though their architecture and the stylistic choices of the surrounding lands was, strange, and made him pause to inspect the first house he came upon. (it was taken, but that didn't matter to him if they were only going to stand outside and look hard at it) ]
Will you be staying on your own, or should I find a place for the both of us?
no subject
[He gives Zhongli a critical looking, sizing the man up and down. He would have liked to think he's gotten to know the man over his time in Liyue, but considering how the man played him like a fool... He might be better off considering them back at square one.
It just makes him more curious, though.]
What kind of services can you even offer? Lessons about the history and culture of country they never knew existed?
[...Not that there's many skills Childe has to offer that would be useful here. Hm. It seems he might have to get comfortable with touch really quickly.
And then Zhongli asks if he wants to live with him and - yep. Definitely knows nothing about the man. He stares at the side of his head, ignoring the odd foreign house they're in front of, as if he stares long enough he'll be able to read his mind.]
...You want to live together. With me. [...] I'll cook and keep the place tidy, but I am not paying for everything or doing maintenance around the place.