hydrangeabloom | (no subject)

... [ that is not what he had been expecting. he's skeptical, but he's got nothing to lose. he does feel a bit... silly having to tell this guy what he's interested in, but he's likely see his request, so whatever. ] A stationary kit. I want to mail a few letters. Help me do that and, yeah, sure - I'll take your interview.

[ That was--- not was he was expecting. A stationary kit for letter writing. ... Who was he writing that the higher ups didn't want the letters sent out?

But no matter, an agreement was an agreement, so Zhongli would keep his end of the bargain. ]

Very well then. Is there any other requirements? A type of stationary you would prefer, for example.

No. [ he shakes his head and shrugs. ] All I've been asking for is a measly stationary kit. I'm pretty sure they think I'm going to kill somebody with, I don't know, the pen. [ he laughs. ] But, ah, ... [ he didn't think that far ahead, so he's quiet for just a little bit as he thinks. ] Something snowy themed.

Snowy theme stationery and a pen... Understood. I will return shortly.

[ Zhongli gets up, bowing his head in respect as he starts to head back the way he came.

And just like that he's gone. Only to return an hour later with a small stack of winter themed stationery sets - some with simple snowflakes, others with full printed images of a cabin in the woods in winter, another with penguins and scarves, and of course a holiday themed one.

If there are any staff complaints, he simply brushes them aside as he lays each pad next to each other on the floor in a long line in front of the glass that separates himself and Tartaglia. ]

Are any of these to your liking?

[ childe throws a nod of acknowledgement in his direction, but isn't sure what to think. that had been a real weird interaction. he presses his face against the glass in an attempt to watch him leave, but one of the nurses is quick to come over and tap on the glass, telling him to back off. he rolls his eyes and flips them off, heading back over to the bed, which he flops back onto. he'll just... wait, he supposes, it's not like he's got anything else to do. ]

[ eventually he sees that familiar suit cross his peripheral vision, so he sits up and looks toward the door, watching as the stationary is spread out in front of him. he heads over and looks down at them. he would have probably picked something plain-ish, but he intended for these letters to be for his sibling's birthdays, so perhaps he should pick something a little more... fun. ]

I can't believe you actually did it. [ and that they let him do it. how many times had he requested this stuff, and this guy just appears, says he's going to get it, and then gets it. ] Who are you again? [ he points to the one with the penguins and scarves. ]

Inspector Zhongli.

[ He repeats as he neatly gathers up the unchosen stationary and sets it into a pile to be picked up by the staff letter. On top of the penguin stationary, he sets a single expensive black ball point pen and presses them both through whatever opening is available between staff and inmate.

Is Zhongli asking for forgiveness rather than permission for such an act? Absolutely. But if take all responsibility for any damage pen and paper cause during his stay, then there should be no issue.

He resettles himself on his chair and folds his hands in his lap. ]

It seems you will need some time to complete your letter writing. To complete our contract, I can come back tomorrow to pick up and mail them. Would you be amenable to an interview after that?

[ as soon as its slid into the cell a few people form behind zhongli look about ready to open their mouths, but they avoid doing so, because he's an inspector... so they hover needlessly in case childe decides to stab somebody. he leers past zhongli at them, before looking down at the paper and pen and stooping to pick them both up. ] ... [ he didn't think he'd actually do it, so he really has no doubts that he'll come to collect the letter tomorrow, which is why he goes to set both down on his table, returning to his seat on the bed. ]

We can do it now. I can write the letter later.

[ Zhongli tilts his head just slightly to look at the staff and they scurry away like so many cockroaches when the light has been turned on.

Good.

It's not that he requires the privacy or is going to do anything that would even bend the strictest rule. But he does want the inmates attention completely on him. No distractions would be permitted. ]

Very well. Then I shall start with a simple question. What is your opinion on Inspectors and Enforcers?

You may take all the time you need to prepare your answer.

[ that's a loaded question coming from an inspector. ] I don't think too highly of them, because they would be the ones that, were I not already in here, would drag me back kicking and screaming because Sibyl told them too.

[ does he sound bitter about his situation, absolutely. he never even got a chance to be free. he was damned from the start... ]

But I guess I can appreciate how they use guys like me as their dogs, since who better to find a latent criminal than a latent criminal. [ he laughs at that. ] Why, are you hiring?

[ It's unclear if the negative attitude towards inspectors is a strike against Childe in this interview as Zhongli jots down a few notes in simple clean penmanship. His expression does not exchange the entire time, even at the bait of Childe's last question. ]

Yes, I am.

But I am very particular in the Enforcers that I choose and have very strict requirements of them. There are only a handful in this facility that I would even consider for an interview.

[ Which is also not meant to sound like praise, but facts. ]

If given the opportunity, would it be something you wish to pursue?

... [ childe hums along with zhongli's affiration. he hadn't expecting him to be hiring from the rejects in this fucken facility. most of them are long gone, and there are only a handful that are of use to anybody besides themselves. he feels bad for them, honestly, but confinement like this doesn't help. it hurts. none of these people are ever going to see the light of day again, ... ] And you want to- [ he bursts out laughing at the praise, beyond surprised, because he can't remember the last time he got a compliment. ]

You want me? [ ... ] Tell me why. You have your pick of the litter here, Inspector, so I want to know why me.

I said I was considering you. Do not interpret it as an advantage in our negotiations.

[ Said flatly as a fact instead of the threat it could be in the right tone. ]

There are many reasons.

[ And Zhongli lists them all calmly by ticking them off on his fingers ]

Even with your incredibly high coefficient, you managed to escape Sibyl for several weeks. And the Enforcer sent to apprehend you was quite a skilled veteran.

Going through your files, you seem to have clarity of mind ever if you occasionally let your frustrations get the better of you. Though I'm sure you'd like nothing better than to express your anger at your situation, you are choosing to hold this conversation with me. Yet again an anomaly considering your coefficient.

Furthermore, you have reasons to not want to be here, yes?

[ And he gestures to the pile of stationery that Childe did not choose. ]

It would be an equal exchange of both of us obtaining what we desire.

[ though zhongli might have said that he doesn't have the advantage, he believes that he has something and something is a hell of a lot more than nothing. he smirks, sitting back and listening as he lists off his best features. ]

[ ah, yes, he remembers the run around he gave sibyl and her dogs. as annoying as it had been to have his peace disturbed he can't lie about the thrill of it all. ]

[ zhongli hits a nerve though, his reason for wanting out, and his expression drops into something more neutral. yeah, he wants to see his family again, and if he's rotting away in this hell hole, then that's never going to happen. he falls silent for a few moments. ]

Considering me, huh, it sure sounds like you're banking on my acceptance. I bet you know there's nobody better than me in this rat trap. [ he stands up and approaches the glass door. ] So what's the deal, hm, you leash me to help you hunt stray dogs? [ as degrading as that sounds ( and it's because of his own wording, really ) it would give him a taste of freedom. ] Do I get to see them? [ his family, that is. ] Or am I still stuck behind a paper and pen?

[ Zhongli's own expression remains painfully blank. Not one emotion crosses his features, not even the sympathy that should be there for a person ripped away from his family, unable to write them even a single letter in his captivity. ]

The deal would be as such - this would be a experimental trial run. I would personally train you in the proper rules and protocols for two weeks before we would both set out together on a test assignment. Should you follow those protocols regardless of the success of the mission, I will take you to see your family for one day.

At that point, we can discuss whether or not we both with to make it a formal working relationship with those details to be ironed out at that time.

[ Zhongli pauses a moment, brow furrowed as he adds one addendum to the contract. Or less than an addendum and more of setting the proper expectations.

He wouldn't be here today, after all, if he wasn't fresh off the loss of another one of his partners. ]

I must warn you - the missions I accept are dangerous, and I have lost many an Enforcer and fellow Inspectors on assignment. So this would not come without a degree of risk to your person.

[ childe doesn't seem thrilled about having to spend two weeks learning the ins and outs of people an enforcer. he knows a lot of that stuff already, having had to learn how to evade them back before he had been apprehended. maybe if he proves as much they can cut the class work crap down to a week. it's something to consider trying to do anyway. ]

...

[ he doesn't seem the least bit turned off about having to engage in the most dangerous situations with the most dangerous criminals. honestly, that sounds the most exciting. he wouldn't want to be issuing parking tickets and scolding people for jaywalking. ] I'm not worried. [ he says with an air of cockiness. ] I never felt more alive than I did when you and your dogs were chasing me through buildings and back-alleys. [ not zhongli, in this case, but one of his fellow inspectors and their enforcers. ]

I'm interested. [ said decisively, especially if it means getting to see his siblings and mother again. ]

[ Zhongli raises one eyebrow at the confidence - most people described being chased by Sibyl remembered the event in a much less ... positive light. Ah, but that is what attracted him to Childe in the first place. No matter how long he was kept here, he never lost that sharp edge to his character. ]

Very well. Then let us begin with the very first part of your interview.

[ Zhongli takes out some sort of tablet-like device and with a few clicks and the distinct sound of something powering down, the force field that makes up the majority of the facing wall of Childe's cell just disappears.

Behind Zhongli there is the frantic murmuring of staff as they chitter nervously about this unexpected turn of events. One even tries to approach, but with a raise of Zhongli's hand, he stops and shrinks back into the crowd.

In fact, they all shrink back. Everyone knew how high Childe's coefficient was. This was insane. ]

[ as soon as the force field between them disappears childe looks just as shocked as some of the people panicking behind zhongli. he can see the staff running around frantically - several of them ready to knock childe on his ass the moment he tries anything funny. honestly, he's surprised he hasn't already been gassed, but zhongli probably told them not to jump in prematurely. either that, or they don't want to accidentally gas an inspector. ]

[ childe gets up from his seat on the bed and approaches zhongli ( and the door ). a part of him considers trying to make a break for it, but he doesn't quite remember the exact layout of the facility. it's been too long. not only that, but he'd probably be caught a lot quicker than last time, since he wouldn't be able to make it too far and he hasn't got any of his stuff with him. ]

Are you breaking me out of here for a day of fun, Inspector? [ but ultimately childe doesn't run. it'd be stupid to do so, especially when he's been given an offer like this. still on a leash, sure, but he'll have more freedom than he does now and he won't have to worry about getting executed. ~~yet~~. ] Where to?

[ and he'd be lying if he said he hadn't taken some interest in zhongli. what a strange inspector. ]

[ Zhongli also rises from his chair, the casual way he rests his hand on his hip a sure sign that Childe would be eating pavement if he tried anything funny. He also makes sure to keep more than one arm's length from Childe as he approaches. This is just a test run, after all, and Childe is more violent than even his usual choices. Some precautions were necessary. ]

A day of fun? I suppose that you could call it something like that.

[ Fun for Childe, anyway. Zhongli would be watching him like a hawk. As for his question: ]

Out.

We are headed out.

[ He turns toward the exit and starts walking, polished dress shoes echoing against the tile floor. Looks like he is just expecting Childe to follow. ]

...out. I got that much. [ he follows, ignoring how the staff talk shit behind his back. he's going to get himself killed. he's going to end up right back in his cell. this is such a bad idea. he's heard it all by this point, so he just focuses on zhongli, trying to siphon more information from him. ] And where, exactly, is out. Technically I'm already out. [ since he hasn't known more than those four walls for a while now. ]

And what are you going to have me do, hm? Track down a guy like myself?

Track someone down?

[ Obtusely, Zhongli hums thoughtfully at the notion, one finger pressed to his chin as they continue down the hall and to the exit. Soon a vast parking lot will open up in front of them. ]

Perhaps if you pass this part of your interview, I shall consider it.

[ And he purposefully continues to avoid Childe's questions are where they are going. Even as they stride up to a sleek black car, the lights flashing once as the doors unlock by whatever futuristic key devices this world has. He gestures toward the side door. ]

Passenger seat.

[ He'd be a little too trusting if he allowed Childe in the back. ]

Edited 2023-03-16 05:50 (UTC)

... [ so that sounds like a no. childe stares at zhongli sidelong. ] What then? [ don't tell him it's going to be something boring. is zhongli going to test his patience or something? see if he snaps doing the boring and mundane stuff. he talked himself up, saying that he only goes on the most dangerous of missions, but maybe that was to cull childe into agreeing. ] I already have a handicap, Inspector. You trying to make it that much harder for me? Having some information would be helpful. [ but he doesn't think zhongli is going to bend, so he drops it then and there. ]

[ childe climbs into the car and sits back, folding his arms behind his head. ] Comfy. [ zhongli's car is a hell of a lot more comfortable than that brick of a bed he's expected to sleep on. ]

[ Zhongli settles in the driver seat, giving Childe a look to ensure he doesn't do something like put his feet on the dash.

When he doesn't: ]

It is indeed my intention to make it that much harder for you. On many occasion, you will accompany me only on my word and act because I ask. This is not to mean that I do not honor or even encourage your autonomy. But if you cannot sit still in a task as simple as this, I am afraid that this might not work out.

[ Truthful, but incredibly underhanded for someone who was clearly in a position of power over someone else. And yet Zhongli did not feel an ounce of regret. This was a trial period - a way to understand if Childe would be a good fit in action as he was on paper. For that, Zhongli would be ruthless to draw out the truth of his character. ]

I'm asking you to trust me.

Is that going to be a problem?

...of course it is. [ he murmurs, rolling his eyes and gazing out the window. childe manages to avoid snorting the moment zhongli asks if he trusts him. no. he barely knows him, and he's been burned before. he has no reason to trust him. the reverse is also true though. childe is a latent criminal that's made a real mess for inspectors and enforcers alike, so why the hell would zhongli trust him... would anybody trust him... ]

I have done nothing but sit still for years on end. I'm kind of over it. [ he gazes at him out of the corner of his eyes. ] But... I guess. [ he shrugs, facing forward and shifting in his seat until he's more comfortable. ] You did make me a promise, and I don't take those very lightly. I'm looking forward to seeing what you've got in store for me, Inspector.

Perhaps trust is too strong a word for what I am requiring of you. I have no intention of transferring you from one cage to another. As with all things, there are limitations to the amount of freedom we are all afforded, and you shall be granted that what is allowed. However, do not think me so foolish that you will be able to slip away from me as easily as you did with the other Inspectors.

I will lead, and you will follow. And on occasion, that will require your patience.

[ He glances at Childe out of the corner of his eye, idling near the parking lot exit (and the absolutely flabbergasted expression of the guard that this was the person the Inspector had chosen to pick up). It seems they will not be leaving until this little misunderstanding is crystal clear. ]

Do you have any objections that that?

...so you think I have plans to run? [ he considers bringing up 'trust', himself, but he's not really interested in an argument. he understands zhongli's need to be cautious. he IS a criminal. ] I'm not going anywhere. [ and as much as he wants to say don't treat me like an animal, the fact is that, now, he kind of is one. ]

No.

No objections, Inspector.

I think if you see an opportunity, you will take it. Nothing more and nothing less.

[ But the Inspector seems appeased by that answer either way as he continues out of the parking lot and onto the freeway. The station he turns to (and yes, he still listens to radio stations) is on that is an eclectic mix of classical music and modern rock and pop.

A few minutes into their journey: ]

What kind of food would you like to eat?

[ It's been a while since Childe had that kind of choice, right? ]

[ if the music bothers childe he doesn't bother bringing it up. but, truth be told, he doesn't mind it. he doubts he'd mind anything because it's been so damn long since he got to hear any at all. he shuts his eyes and enjoys it, his mind painting pictures of whatever zhongli could possibly be getting them both into. ]

What? [ he cracks open an eye. ] ... [ childe sits up more properly and looks at zhongli like he's grown another head. it's weird to be treated like a person instead of an animal. ] I'll eat just about anything. I'm not picky. [ although there are a few things he'd rather not eat. ] What's your favorite food?

Not picky? I assume that works to your advantage if you have no preference, but it is a terrible waste to not appreciate the richness and variety of the cuisine around us.

[ He speaks from a position of privilege - both as an Inspector and as someone with a low Crime Coefficient. It seems some normal things are just outside of his ability to grasp.

He muses for a few moments before answering the next question: ]

Chinese. While I would not call it rare, there are very few restaurants owned and operated by Chinese immigrants. If indeed you have no preference, I would like to take you there.

I couldn't be all that picky. [ even before that though, childe had eaten whatever. his family had a lot of mouths to feed, so whatever they could afford is what he ate. and then when he went on the run, well, food was few and far between, so once again he didn't have much of a choice. ] I was given whatever they decided to serve that day. Slop or otherwise. Hah, ...not everybody has the opportunity to appreciate food. Sometimes surviving is all that matters.

[ he shakes his head. ] I don't have a preference. I wouldn't even know where to begin. [ besides some russian dishes, and he doubts any restaurant serving that is going to be in the good parts of town. ] Are we stopping for food first? [ he did get taken out of his cell before he had a chance to eat, so he is hungry. ]

Yes. We are. Think of it as a celebration of our potential partnership.

[ To which then Zhongli will busy himself watching the road and whatever thoughts are organizing themselves in his brain at the moment. Almost as an afterthought, he dumps the remaining bag of stationary at Childe's feet since he certainly has no need of winter-themed letters, and Childe is free to do as he pleases for the rest of the car ride to the restaurant. ]

[ silence follows the unceremonious dropping of the bag at childe's feet. he toes it and then looks to zhongli. ] What do you plan on doing with all of this? [ he's not going to throw it away, right? [ childe lifts the bag into his lap and starts leafing through it again, since he doesn't have much else to do besides stare at the window. ] Don't you have anybody you want to send a letter too? [ although he supposes letters are antiquated, and the only reason he's doing it is because he's not allowed to have a phone. ]

I have no one to send it to.

[ He says this without sadness or remorse. Without any emotion really. It is just a mere statement of fact that anyone he could send a letter to would be a co-worker or no longer alive.

As for the remaining stationery: ]

So I plan to do nothing with it. This stationery was not traded as part of our deal so either you must offer something for it, or in the event we become compatible partners, then what I have you may consider effectively yours.

...ah. [ childe considers prodding for a little bit more information, because he's curious, but he knows that it would probably be a wasted effort, since zhongli has no reason to tell him anything. ] I see. [ he muses to himself, gazing down at it. ] Seems like a waste... [ said more to himself than anything. he's not interested in trading anything for it, since he already has some, but maybe... should they become partners... ]

Where's this restaurant anyway?

Perhaps.

[ Is all that Zhongli replies as they continue driving in silence. Did he even hear the question? It seems like maybe not until Zhongli parks the car along the curbside. ]

It is right here.

[ Said as they end up on a busy street in the middle of the city. Busy enough that a valet comes over to take the keys from Zhongli's hand which he hands over without even a glance.

The building itself is old and rustic compared to the modern clean skyscrapers on either side. A modest four stories, it has a warm toned ceramic tile roof and walls alternating between wood and plaster. There are also two large guardian dragons, pearls clutched in opposite claws, standing guard at the entrance.

Zhongli moves to the trunk of his vehicle as he waits for Childe to exit the passenger side of the vehicle. ]