Zhongli â éįĻģ (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
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hydrangeabloom2023-09-16 01:51 pm
sharethememory) wrote in hydrangeabloom2023-09-16 01:51 pm
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[ Of Justice and Contracts ]
[ Poised and proper, Monsieur Neuvillette. Zhongli can't help the small tug of a smile at how polite he is being when millennia of bad blood exist between Archon and Sovereign. But the Chief Justice remained laser focused on what was best for Fontaine and her people. It is a testament to his character and his goodwill, truly the nation could only improve under his care, nurtured by the love and unwavering dedication of its former rulers.
(A testament to perhaps another inevitable change. As the age of humanity rose, perhaps it was time for the rule of the Archons to fade into history.) ]
Both sound like areas that I might be able to offer aid. I thank you for your abundance in patience or generosity.
[ Ah, but even so, the scales seemed tipped in Neuvillette's favor, even if Zhongli's the one offering recompense. His Harbinger friend was safe. Neuvillette has never once threatened to expose his identity even if it may be advantageous to do so. And even being allowed to stay beyond his welcome felt more like a generosity than anything.
It reminds Zhongli of when he was younger, unused to holding the reigns of a nation he sword to love and protect. It also reminds him of the words his friends would whisper in his ear when it seemed he was taking on the whole world— ]
And I hope perhaps that someday that favor can be returned in kind.
[ Yes, Zhongli thinks he would like to spend time with Neuvillette when not knee deep in a nationwide disaster. ]
(A testament to perhaps another inevitable change. As the age of humanity rose, perhaps it was time for the rule of the Archons to fade into history.) ]
Both sound like areas that I might be able to offer aid. I thank you for your abundance in patience or generosity.
[ Ah, but even so, the scales seemed tipped in Neuvillette's favor, even if Zhongli's the one offering recompense. His Harbinger friend was safe. Neuvillette has never once threatened to expose his identity even if it may be advantageous to do so. And even being allowed to stay beyond his welcome felt more like a generosity than anything.
It reminds Zhongli of when he was younger, unused to holding the reigns of a nation he sword to love and protect. It also reminds him of the words his friends would whisper in his ear when it seemed he was taking on the whole world— ]
And I hope perhaps that someday that favor can be returned in kind.
[ Yes, Zhongli thinks he would like to spend time with Neuvillette when not knee deep in a nationwide disaster. ]
[ A brief silence settles between the two as the Iudex considers the other man's words. Unless he's wildly misinterpreting something, it almost sounds like he wishes to spend more time with him... but why? They're not friends. Quite the opposite, in fact; Zhongli is an enemy who owes a debt of blood for his part in upholding Celestia's illegitimate regime. For sealing the rightful ruler of Geo deep beneath the earth in Nantianmen. Perhaps he mistakenly thinks they're friends and is trying to replicate the bond he supposedly shared with Azhdaha all those centuries ago. ]
I need no personal favors in return, Monsieur. [ He replies, maintaining a carefully neutral tone that doesn't betray the enmity simmering deep within. ]
Simply do what you can for Fontaine, and return home once you're satisfied. I will pay the remainder of the debt you owe the hotel.
[ He tries to frame it as his way of thanking him for his surprisingly useful assistance over these past few months, but in reality he's just looking to get the former Archon out of his hair. With how slowly he's been paying off the debt he incurred, Neuvillette is starting to think he might end up staying here for years if he doesn't step in and do something.
Meanwhile, the vishap that had been eyeing Zhongli's shoe earlier is now sinking its teeth into the heel and trying to pull it off the other man's foot. ]
I need no personal favors in return, Monsieur. [ He replies, maintaining a carefully neutral tone that doesn't betray the enmity simmering deep within. ]
Simply do what you can for Fontaine, and return home once you're satisfied. I will pay the remainder of the debt you owe the hotel.
[ He tries to frame it as his way of thanking him for his surprisingly useful assistance over these past few months, but in reality he's just looking to get the former Archon out of his hair. With how slowly he's been paying off the debt he incurred, Neuvillette is starting to think he might end up staying here for years if he doesn't step in and do something.
Meanwhile, the vishap that had been eyeing Zhongli's shoe earlier is now sinking its teeth into the heel and trying to pull it off the other man's foot. ]
[ While Neuvillette is as dignified and respectable as ever, the slight tone shift between them does not go unnoticed. It is to be expected of course that Archons and Sovereigns would have a difficult time co-existing with all that came before. The companionship he had shared with Neuvillette, while certainly unconventional at times, was one that Zhongli could share with very few beings in Teyvat. But ah— perhaps he had once again been wrapped up in his own selfishness without seeing the world as it must appear through the eyes of a still young reincarnated dragon.
Had their conversation not been fraught with the secret of the second Hydro Archon's passing and now this sudden return to formality, Zhongli might indulge in playing with the young vishap. As it stands now, however, the conversation had taken a turn that needed careful navigation, so the poor hatchling will chomp down on a jade shield that forms over Zhongli like a second skin — footwear saved from an unpleasant end for the time being.
As if in quiet apology, a small whirling ball of geo energy coalescences just to the side of the young vishap — an intricate floating cube. It spins idly in the air for a few moments before drifting off to one side in an obvious game of fetch.
A game that Zhongli currently is paying only the barest amount of attention to as he regards Neuvillette with as much composure and companionship as their months together have so tentatively forged. ]
Ah, perhaps that was worded poorly. I seek not for a exchange of favors, Monsieur. But for your company if you ever wish to travel to Liyue.
Though perhaps I have overstayed my welcome here. This, too, I understand, if you wish for our collaboration to end with the conclusion of the prophecy.
Had their conversation not been fraught with the secret of the second Hydro Archon's passing and now this sudden return to formality, Zhongli might indulge in playing with the young vishap. As it stands now, however, the conversation had taken a turn that needed careful navigation, so the poor hatchling will chomp down on a jade shield that forms over Zhongli like a second skin — footwear saved from an unpleasant end for the time being.
As if in quiet apology, a small whirling ball of geo energy coalescences just to the side of the young vishap — an intricate floating cube. It spins idly in the air for a few moments before drifting off to one side in an obvious game of fetch.
A game that Zhongli currently is paying only the barest amount of attention to as he regards Neuvillette with as much composure and companionship as their months together have so tentatively forged. ]
Ah, perhaps that was worded poorly. I seek not for a exchange of favors, Monsieur. But for your company if you ever wish to travel to Liyue.
Though perhaps I have overstayed my welcome here. This, too, I understand, if you wish for our collaboration to end with the conclusion of the prophecy.
[ The vishap winces as it inadvertently bites into something solid as stone, glaring down at the shoe as though it's somehow to blame for this before it gets distracted by the cube that materializes out of thin air. It tilts its head, staring at it for a few seconds before it breaks into a sprint, chasing after it, having practically forgotten about the shoe. Neuvillette spares the young creature a quick glance before returning his gaze to the other dragon.
Well, false dragon. Zhongli may take the form of something that looks like a dragon, but Neuvillette doesn't consider someone with no relationship to the vishaps a true dragon. A hare and a rabbit may look similar but are entirely different species, after all. ]
I doubt I will leave Fontaine anytime soon. Now that the Oratrice has ceased to function, I'm personally powering the nation with Pneumousia until a viable alternative is found.
[ He deliberately phrases it in a manner that can be interpreted as him not being able to leave at all; it's true that he can't travel too far from Fontaine, but as far as he can tell he should at least be able to go to Chenyu Vale without causing any power outages. He's been thinking of perhaps going there briefly for the next Lantern Rite but Zhongli doesn't need to know that. There's no possible way they could run into each other there by chance, anyway. ]
Our collaboration has come to an end, but perhaps our paths will cross again in the future, Monsieur. [ The Sovereign will see to it that they will, once it's time to put him on trial. He then pauses, briefly, thinking back on his conversation with Skirk. ]
...There is one more thing I would like to bring up; if you are still in possession of the Geo Gnosis, I advise that you get rid of it as soon as possible.
Well, false dragon. Zhongli may take the form of something that looks like a dragon, but Neuvillette doesn't consider someone with no relationship to the vishaps a true dragon. A hare and a rabbit may look similar but are entirely different species, after all. ]
I doubt I will leave Fontaine anytime soon. Now that the Oratrice has ceased to function, I'm personally powering the nation with Pneumousia until a viable alternative is found.
[ He deliberately phrases it in a manner that can be interpreted as him not being able to leave at all; it's true that he can't travel too far from Fontaine, but as far as he can tell he should at least be able to go to Chenyu Vale without causing any power outages. He's been thinking of perhaps going there briefly for the next Lantern Rite but Zhongli doesn't need to know that. There's no possible way they could run into each other there by chance, anyway. ]
Our collaboration has come to an end, but perhaps our paths will cross again in the future, Monsieur. [ The Sovereign will see to it that they will, once it's time to put him on trial. He then pauses, briefly, thinking back on his conversation with Skirk. ]
...There is one more thing I would like to bring up; if you are still in possession of the Geo Gnosis, I advise that you get rid of it as soon as possible.
[ It should not be strange to Zhongli that the more things change, the more that they stay the same. Whether Sovereign or Archon or Sovereign again, one seemed bound to their nation in so many more entrenched and intrusive ways than just duty. Or perhaps duty was the crux of the issue much like Fontaine was the source of all water. It is unsurprising that Neuvillette would be tethered even moreso to Fontaine after all that had transpired. But a small part of Zhongli hopes deep down that he does not have to be the nation's battery for too long. Such a system seems woefully easy (and tragic) to exploit.
But, ah, it seems that perhaps these next meetings were to be their last for quite a while unless Zhongli came to Fontaine again. For even if he did visit, what reason would he have to find a spot on the Chief Justice's very busy calendar? All questions with no answers at the moment.
The sudden shift to bringing up the gnosis catches him off guard, and thus Zhongli defaults to his most tried and true strategy — revealing little to none of his own hand as he does not at first answer Neuvillette's question. ]
Might I ask why you would suggest that?
But, ah, it seems that perhaps these next meetings were to be their last for quite a while unless Zhongli came to Fontaine again. For even if he did visit, what reason would he have to find a spot on the Chief Justice's very busy calendar? All questions with no answers at the moment.
The sudden shift to bringing up the gnosis catches him off guard, and thus Zhongli defaults to his most tried and true strategy — revealing little to none of his own hand as he does not at first answer Neuvillette's question. ]
Might I ask why you would suggest that?
[ Zhongli's response doesn't say anything whether he still has it or not, but that's fine. Neuvillette doesn't particularly care if the former Archons prefers to keep his cards close to his chest regarding this matter; he simply wishes to share what he personally considers to be deeply unsettling information. What Zhongli does with it is ultimately up to him. ]
After defeating the All-Devouring Narwhal, Lumine and I encountered Tartaglia's master, Skirk. She said she could smell the presence of something similar to a god's curse and then asked if I had "the remains of the Third Descender" on my person.
[ He explains as the vishap in his arms wakes, blinking groggily as it begins to squirm in his arms to be let down, which Neuvillette obliges immediately. It chirps happily and then wanders off to the side to instigate a play fight with one of its peers. ]
I do not know who this Third Descender is or how they died, but their corpse was carved up into the seven Gnoses. I don't think it's a good idea to hold onto the remains of the deceased; sooner or later, it will invite misfortune.
After defeating the All-Devouring Narwhal, Lumine and I encountered Tartaglia's master, Skirk. She said she could smell the presence of something similar to a god's curse and then asked if I had "the remains of the Third Descender" on my person.
[ He explains as the vishap in his arms wakes, blinking groggily as it begins to squirm in his arms to be let down, which Neuvillette obliges immediately. It chirps happily and then wanders off to the side to instigate a play fight with one of its peers. ]
I do not know who this Third Descender is or how they died, but their corpse was carved up into the seven Gnoses. I don't think it's a good idea to hold onto the remains of the deceased; sooner or later, it will invite misfortune.
Thank you for letting me know.
[ A god's curse— well, isn't that one way to put it mildly.
Zhongli nods solemnly as he receives this information, his own tangled web of duty and contracts severely limiting what he can say or do in response to this situation. It seemed so unfair though, after all that Fontaine had gone through and how it had to struggle on its own to thwart prophecies and curses— that they should be rewarded with being kept further in the dark.
And was this not an olive branch offered to Zhongli himself? Rex Lapis was dead — so Neuvillette could easily assume that the gnosis was no longer in his possession. And yet, here he was offering a warning and for what — the safety of an ex-Archon wished by a reborn Sovereign?
(How everything was changing so fast as it all spiraled down to the quickly approaching conclusion.) ]
Monsieur Neuvillette.
[ He watches the vishap scurry off to play with its peers. Watches the other drag the glowing bit of rock to the other in its mouth, tailing thumping happily. ]
Do you know what a Descender is?
[ A god's curse— well, isn't that one way to put it mildly.
Zhongli nods solemnly as he receives this information, his own tangled web of duty and contracts severely limiting what he can say or do in response to this situation. It seemed so unfair though, after all that Fontaine had gone through and how it had to struggle on its own to thwart prophecies and curses— that they should be rewarded with being kept further in the dark.
And was this not an olive branch offered to Zhongli himself? Rex Lapis was dead — so Neuvillette could easily assume that the gnosis was no longer in his possession. And yet, here he was offering a warning and for what — the safety of an ex-Archon wished by a reborn Sovereign?
(How everything was changing so fast as it all spiraled down to the quickly approaching conclusion.) ]
Monsieur Neuvillette.
[ He watches the vishap scurry off to play with its peers. Watches the other drag the glowing bit of rock to the other in its mouth, tailing thumping happily. ]
Do you know what a Descender is?
I haven't been told what it means, but I assume it refers to an individual originating from beyond Teyvat. Presumably, they must also possess a particular quality or characteristic to be called a Descender.
[ He's been mulling it over from time to time ever since his conversation with that mysterious woman, and this is the conclusion he's arrived at based on the minimal amount of information he currently has. Not all who come from outside of Teyvat are necessarily Descenders; if that were the case, wouldn't the All-Devouring Narwhal also be one? So there must be more to the title than just being a foreign entity. ]
The Traveler said she's the Fourth. If we take Descender to mean something along the lines of "outlander capable of disrupting the present world order," then the Heavenly Principles is likely the First.
[ And if this line of thought is correct, then there's only one obvious candidate for the Second: the invader who showed up to instigate a great war against the first usurper, ravaging the earth and rendering the skies asunder in the process. ]
[ He's been mulling it over from time to time ever since his conversation with that mysterious woman, and this is the conclusion he's arrived at based on the minimal amount of information he currently has. Not all who come from outside of Teyvat are necessarily Descenders; if that were the case, wouldn't the All-Devouring Narwhal also be one? So there must be more to the title than just being a foreign entity. ]
The Traveler said she's the Fourth. If we take Descender to mean something along the lines of "outlander capable of disrupting the present world order," then the Heavenly Principles is likely the First.
[ And if this line of thought is correct, then there's only one obvious candidate for the Second: the invader who showed up to instigate a great war against the first usurper, ravaging the earth and rendering the skies asunder in the process. ]
[ Zhongli's nod is non-committal neither affirming or denying Neuvillette's line of reasoning. The logic was sound and the conclusions reasonable. ]
It seems that you are well-versed in this world's history.
[ Perhaps all then that was needed was a small nudge. ]
Should your responsibilities wane enough for you to investigate further, I believe the help of a neighbor might provide more wisdom.
[ Whether he means the newly freed Dendro Archon or going to visit fearsome (and grumpy) Apep is purposefully vague. But at least there might be less hostilities there between Sovereign and Archon, seeing as Dendro's own Sovereign still wandered the mortal plane. ]
As for your warning, I fear I'm a bit too old to deal with such misfortune. So I shall take your words to heart.
[ Or empty chest-cavity equivalent. ]
It seems that you are well-versed in this world's history.
[ Perhaps all then that was needed was a small nudge. ]
Should your responsibilities wane enough for you to investigate further, I believe the help of a neighbor might provide more wisdom.
[ Whether he means the newly freed Dendro Archon or going to visit fearsome (and grumpy) Apep is purposefully vague. But at least there might be less hostilities there between Sovereign and Archon, seeing as Dendro's own Sovereign still wandered the mortal plane. ]
As for your warning, I fear I'm a bit too old to deal with such misfortune. So I shall take your words to heart.
[ Or empty chest-cavity equivalent. ]
[ As promised, Neuvillette pays off the remainder of Zhongli's debt to the Hotel Debord; he also tells the hotel that for the rest of his stay in Fontaine, his meals will be paid in full by the Palais. He might not particularly like the man, but he wants to show his gratitude for his assistance nevertheless.
Month pass. Slowly but steadily life begins to return to normal as reconstruction efforts proceed as smoothly and rapidly as possible. More people begin to leave the temporary shelters to their rebuilt homes. Most schools have reopened. The main hospital in the city now has a new maternity ward, built in preparation of the coming population boom; for better or worse, turning the people of Fontaine into true humans also granted them reproductive freedom now that they no longer need to pray to the fountain to conceive children.
The now defunct Oratrice remains in the opera house as a reminder of the justice Focalors represented and Neuvillette is pleased to discover that while it can no longer produce Indemnitium, it's still capable of storing some power, allowing him to transfer a small piece of his elemental authority to temporarily supply the nation with Pneumousia in his absence. He doubts it'll be necessary anytime soon since he has no plans to travel farther than Chenyu Vale in the foreseeable future, though.
The old year gives way to the new one in Fontaine, and just a few weeks later it's time for Liyue to follow suit and usher in the new year with the annual Lantern Rite. Neuvillette decides to take half a day off (his first half-day off that isn't a public holiday in years; Sedene is so surprised when he informs her that she nearly drops her teacup) and takes the boat from Lumidouce Harbor to Yilong Wharf.
The earth trembles slightly as he disembarks. Nothing to concern oneself with, surely; seismic activity is a regular occurrence in the land of Geo.
The weather is pleasantly cool and mild, the blue skies only partially obstructed by some scattered clouds as the Iudex wanders the wharf for some time, perusing the various stands selling all manner of trinkets and food as hawkers try to outdo each other in promoting their wares. He doesn't think twice when one of them tells offers to sell him ten boxes of tea at a fifty percent discount and immediately buys them; it might be a little too much tea, but he knows someone who will appreciate such quantities.
Another brief tremor, lasting less than three seconds. Enough to make tourists give pause and halt in their step, but the locals barely react to it and continue as usual. Probably nothing to worry about.
Ten boxes of tea now neatly tucked into a paper bag, Neuvillette leaves Yilong Wharf to walk along the well-trodden dirt path leading to the nearby Qiaoying Village. As he nears the village, he spots a roadside stall of some sort and upon approaching he finds that the woman manning the stand is offering tourists the chance to try their hands at the ceramic arts.
After paying the woman, he dons one of the aprons hanging on the side of the stall and takes a seat and removes his gloves so they won't get dirtied (he's a little hesitant to do so in front of a stranger, but then decides that since she can see his rhinophores there's no harm in letting her see the scaly hands as well). He's given a rectangular block of clay that he doesn't quite know what to do with as first, but he finds that he likes the cool texture between his fingers as he experimentally begins to mold it into the shape of a ladle. Then another idea stirs to life and he begins to knead the top of the handle into the head of a heavily stylized dragon.
He's so focused on the task at hand that he fails to notice the very familiar aura that approaches. ]
Month pass. Slowly but steadily life begins to return to normal as reconstruction efforts proceed as smoothly and rapidly as possible. More people begin to leave the temporary shelters to their rebuilt homes. Most schools have reopened. The main hospital in the city now has a new maternity ward, built in preparation of the coming population boom; for better or worse, turning the people of Fontaine into true humans also granted them reproductive freedom now that they no longer need to pray to the fountain to conceive children.
The now defunct Oratrice remains in the opera house as a reminder of the justice Focalors represented and Neuvillette is pleased to discover that while it can no longer produce Indemnitium, it's still capable of storing some power, allowing him to transfer a small piece of his elemental authority to temporarily supply the nation with Pneumousia in his absence. He doubts it'll be necessary anytime soon since he has no plans to travel farther than Chenyu Vale in the foreseeable future, though.
The old year gives way to the new one in Fontaine, and just a few weeks later it's time for Liyue to follow suit and usher in the new year with the annual Lantern Rite. Neuvillette decides to take half a day off (his first half-day off that isn't a public holiday in years; Sedene is so surprised when he informs her that she nearly drops her teacup) and takes the boat from Lumidouce Harbor to Yilong Wharf.
The earth trembles slightly as he disembarks. Nothing to concern oneself with, surely; seismic activity is a regular occurrence in the land of Geo.
The weather is pleasantly cool and mild, the blue skies only partially obstructed by some scattered clouds as the Iudex wanders the wharf for some time, perusing the various stands selling all manner of trinkets and food as hawkers try to outdo each other in promoting their wares. He doesn't think twice when one of them tells offers to sell him ten boxes of tea at a fifty percent discount and immediately buys them; it might be a little too much tea, but he knows someone who will appreciate such quantities.
Another brief tremor, lasting less than three seconds. Enough to make tourists give pause and halt in their step, but the locals barely react to it and continue as usual. Probably nothing to worry about.
Ten boxes of tea now neatly tucked into a paper bag, Neuvillette leaves Yilong Wharf to walk along the well-trodden dirt path leading to the nearby Qiaoying Village. As he nears the village, he spots a roadside stall of some sort and upon approaching he finds that the woman manning the stand is offering tourists the chance to try their hands at the ceramic arts.
After paying the woman, he dons one of the aprons hanging on the side of the stall and takes a seat and removes his gloves so they won't get dirtied (he's a little hesitant to do so in front of a stranger, but then decides that since she can see his rhinophores there's no harm in letting her see the scaly hands as well). He's given a rectangular block of clay that he doesn't quite know what to do with as first, but he finds that he likes the cool texture between his fingers as he experimentally begins to mold it into the shape of a ladle. Then another idea stirs to life and he begins to knead the top of the handle into the head of a heavily stylized dragon.
He's so focused on the task at hand that he fails to notice the very familiar aura that approaches. ]
[ Zhongli stays in Fontaine longer than he probably should, even with his debts to the hotel paid off. Despite all the confusion that accompanies Fontaine's reconstruction, Zhongli finds the rebuilding of a nation soothing. Simpler and nostalgic for times long passed.
Except for brief chance encounters, he does not meet Neuvillette again before he packs his bags and heads back to Liyue.
Over the next few months, Liyue remains largely peaceful. The Qixing have become well accustomed to leading without their Archon for many years now, and despite the mora crisis looming over them, life seems to continue as normal. The only strange thing of note is the occasional earthquake that shakes the land. They're short, sporadic and unpredictable but ultimately harmless as of now. Being attuned to geo as he is, Zhongli knows that they are not natural and instead caused by some sort of disruption in geo energies, but the clues and hypothesis he follows run cold very quickly.
And besides, it is Lantern Rite. He should take this opportunity to enjoy all that is Liyue and to meet up with old friends. Thus, he agrees to go with the Director to Chenyu Value. It seems the adepti there (who he has not encountered since the Archon War) have become more active recently.
Imagine his surprise when Zhongli feels a familiar presence as he leaves Qiaoying Village (Hu Tao having already left herself for the larger shopping arcade of the Wharf). A presence he had assumed that he would not feel again until the final conflict of the Traveler or for many centuries to come. Like a moth to a flame, he is drawn to the Hydro Sovereign even though he knows he should be cautious about their interactions, especially when Neuvillette had been quite clear he had no time in the near future to visit Liyue.
Finding the Chief Justice tucked away in an obviously seasonal set-up of pottery equipment and being warmly encouraged by one of the old Aunties stirs something warm within him. A silent wish answered that the new leader of Fontaine be able to enjoy the fruits of the land that he was overseeing, whether that be his own nation or anywhere else in Teyvat. Zhongli's smile only widens as he approaches, the woman chattering pleasantly on how he might reinforce the piece to hold its intricate shape.
When there is a pause in Neuvillette's concentration, Zhongli clears his throat, doing his best to not disturb that art in progress. ]
It seems that this a very auspicious Lantern Rite that our paths might cross once more.
Greetings, Monsieur Neuvillette. I hope Liyue has been treating you well.
Except for brief chance encounters, he does not meet Neuvillette again before he packs his bags and heads back to Liyue.
Over the next few months, Liyue remains largely peaceful. The Qixing have become well accustomed to leading without their Archon for many years now, and despite the mora crisis looming over them, life seems to continue as normal. The only strange thing of note is the occasional earthquake that shakes the land. They're short, sporadic and unpredictable but ultimately harmless as of now. Being attuned to geo as he is, Zhongli knows that they are not natural and instead caused by some sort of disruption in geo energies, but the clues and hypothesis he follows run cold very quickly.
And besides, it is Lantern Rite. He should take this opportunity to enjoy all that is Liyue and to meet up with old friends. Thus, he agrees to go with the Director to Chenyu Value. It seems the adepti there (who he has not encountered since the Archon War) have become more active recently.
Imagine his surprise when Zhongli feels a familiar presence as he leaves Qiaoying Village (Hu Tao having already left herself for the larger shopping arcade of the Wharf). A presence he had assumed that he would not feel again until the final conflict of the Traveler or for many centuries to come. Like a moth to a flame, he is drawn to the Hydro Sovereign even though he knows he should be cautious about their interactions, especially when Neuvillette had been quite clear he had no time in the near future to visit Liyue.
Finding the Chief Justice tucked away in an obviously seasonal set-up of pottery equipment and being warmly encouraged by one of the old Aunties stirs something warm within him. A silent wish answered that the new leader of Fontaine be able to enjoy the fruits of the land that he was overseeing, whether that be his own nation or anywhere else in Teyvat. Zhongli's smile only widens as he approaches, the woman chattering pleasantly on how he might reinforce the piece to hold its intricate shape.
When there is a pause in Neuvillette's concentration, Zhongli clears his throat, doing his best to not disturb that art in progress. ]
It seems that this a very auspicious Lantern Rite that our paths might cross once more.
Greetings, Monsieur Neuvillette. I hope Liyue has been treating you well.
[ Neuvillette nods. He's far too busy to conduct an investigation into the matter at this time, but one day he will pay Buer a visit in the nation of wisdom; he wants to meet with her in person before rendering any judgment, so that would be a good opportunity to ask the little God of Verdure if she knows anything about these Descenders. ]
Unless there's anything else, that's all I wanted to discuss with you. I hope you will enjoy the rest of your stay here in Fontaine, Monsieur Zhongli.
[ To be continued... ]
Unless there's anything else, that's all I wanted to discuss with you. I hope you will enjoy the rest of your stay here in Fontaine, Monsieur Zhongli.
[ To be continued... ]
[ Having just finished one of the side fins, Neuvillette is in the middle of attaching it to the lower section of the ladle and delicately smoothing the two parts together. His hands still mid-movement and he straightens his back, turning in his seat to face the other man. Liyue is a large nation and Neuvillette only intends to be here for half a day; what are the odds of them chancing upon another by the side of the road like this? Inwardly, he nearly laughs at the absurdity of it. He had hoped they wouldn't meet again anytime soon, yet here they are. What a strange twist of fate. ]
Greetings to you as well, Monsieur Zhongli. I didn't expect to see you here. [ He says, forcing himself to school his mouth into a faint and pleasant smile. He wouldn't call it auspicious at all. Quite the opposite, really. ]
Liyue has been treating me well so far. Chenyu Vale's landscapes are tranquil and majestic—the views alone have made it a worthwhile trip.
Greetings to you as well, Monsieur Zhongli. I didn't expect to see you here. [ He says, forcing himself to school his mouth into a faint and pleasant smile. He wouldn't call it auspicious at all. Quite the opposite, really. ]
Liyue has been treating me well so far. Chenyu Vale's landscapes are tranquil and majestic—the views alone have made it a worthwhile trip.
It is an honor to have you bestow such praise upon Liyue.
[ Neuvillette's sincere praise is well received and regardless of the Chief Justice's own personal feelings, any warm words toward Liyue instantly puts Zhongli in a better mood. Which means he just invites himself more into the Sovereign's space.
Zhongli takes a seat at an unoccupied pottery wheel next to Neuvillette, exchanging quick pleasantries with the shop owner before settling in. ]
Have you had a chance to enjoy the tea here? It would be a shame for you to come all this way and not have the opportunity to sample some of it. I know of a very reputable teahouse in the area if you are interested.
[ Another tremor shakes the earth — causing Zhongli only a moment of pause as his brow furrows. Ah, perhaps that should be a matter he returns to sooner rather than later. Perhaps after a shared cup of tea (to redeem Liyue's water in Neuvillette's eyes.) ]
[ Neuvillette's sincere praise is well received and regardless of the Chief Justice's own personal feelings, any warm words toward Liyue instantly puts Zhongli in a better mood. Which means he just invites himself more into the Sovereign's space.
Zhongli takes a seat at an unoccupied pottery wheel next to Neuvillette, exchanging quick pleasantries with the shop owner before settling in. ]
Have you had a chance to enjoy the tea here? It would be a shame for you to come all this way and not have the opportunity to sample some of it. I know of a very reputable teahouse in the area if you are interested.
[ Another tremor shakes the earth — causing Zhongli only a moment of pause as his brow furrows. Ah, perhaps that should be a matter he returns to sooner rather than later. Perhaps after a shared cup of tea (to redeem Liyue's water in Neuvillette's eyes.) ]
[ Neuvillette quickly places his palms against the sides of the ladle as the earth begins to tremble, preventing it from accidentally falling off the pottery wheel. His brow furrows slightly before smoothing out as the trembling subsides; something about this concerns him for reasons he can't articulate, but he pushes those thoughts aside for now. This is commonplace here, and he's only a tourist. This does not concern him. ]
I bought a few boxes of tea for Wriothesley, but I haven't sampled it myself. [ With the trembling having subsided, he begins to work on the other side fin, carefully shaping it with the tools provided. ]
Perhaps I'll go to this teahouse once my clay ladle is ready to be baked in the kiln.
I bought a few boxes of tea for Wriothesley, but I haven't sampled it myself. [ With the trembling having subsided, he begins to work on the other side fin, carefully shaping it with the tools provided. ]
Perhaps I'll go to this teahouse once my clay ladle is ready to be baked in the kiln.
[ Zhongli peers down at the earth much like an owner would look at a favorite puppy that is misbehaving, fond yet exasperated. Did it not understand that Zhongli was busy trying to entertain a Sovereign in his home country?
Not that the earth should care about such matters of mortals and gods. The ex-Archon pauses for a moment, listening to see if he is somehow missing something that could be the cause of the disturbance. But unlike that time so many millennia ago, he does not hear the voice of anything calling or the song of an elemental. He just hears the whistle of the wind as the earth pauses in its rumbling.
It's a little bit disconcerting.
And thus Zhongli continues the conversation as if he didn't space out into his element and nostalgia for a few moments. ]
Monsieur Wriothesley— ah, yes. Your friend from the Fortress of Meropide. That's a very thoughtful gift which I hope he finds to live up to its reputation.
[ Zhongli himself had yet to read the Steambird article but the Ministry of Civil Affairs would not allow anything but the best to be written about beloved tea of Qiaoying village. ]
Would you perhaps like some company to the teahouse? I was planning on visiting there myself later today and —
I must admit I have an ulterior motive for such a request.
Not that the earth should care about such matters of mortals and gods. The ex-Archon pauses for a moment, listening to see if he is somehow missing something that could be the cause of the disturbance. But unlike that time so many millennia ago, he does not hear the voice of anything calling or the song of an elemental. He just hears the whistle of the wind as the earth pauses in its rumbling.
It's a little bit disconcerting.
And thus Zhongli continues the conversation as if he didn't space out into his element and nostalgia for a few moments. ]
Monsieur Wriothesley— ah, yes. Your friend from the Fortress of Meropide. That's a very thoughtful gift which I hope he finds to live up to its reputation.
[ Zhongli himself had yet to read the Steambird article but the Ministry of Civil Affairs would not allow anything but the best to be written about beloved tea of Qiaoying village. ]
Would you perhaps like some company to the teahouse? I was planning on visiting there myself later today and —
I must admit I have an ulterior motive for such a request.
[ Noticing the pause, Neuvillette's gaze fixes itself on the other man as he watches him look down at the ground below; should he take this as confirmation that these tremors are an anomaly, rather than naturally occuring seismic activity? If the former Geo Archon is reacting in this manner he cannot interpret it as anything else. ]
When you put it that way, I cannot refuse. [ Inside of him are two dragons. One wants to bluntly tell him no. The other wants to act with propriety. Besides, he is a little curious about these ulterior motives. ]
This shouldn't take much longer, I think. I assume it's best to apply the paint after baking?
When you put it that way, I cannot refuse. [ Inside of him are two dragons. One wants to bluntly tell him no. The other wants to act with propriety. Besides, he is a little curious about these ulterior motives. ]
This shouldn't take much longer, I think. I assume it's best to apply the paint after baking?
[ And so two dragons step into the same dance again as they had back in the land of hydro. A dance where formalities and social niceties were the cornerstone of the interaction regardless of the individual goals of the participants.
Not that Zhongli does not want to spend time with Neuvillette. Quite the opposite. He is pleased to see him and more pleased to see that he seems to be taking a vacation of all things. But even retired as he is, it's always good manners to keep an eye on such a powerful visitor to Liyue. If he can impart some affection for its culture and history, then well, that was only an added bonus. ]
Yes. But please, do not rush on my account. Such an activity should be done at one's leisure especially if it's your first time experiencing it.
[ Though he does not begin to form anything with it, Zhongli also leans over to admire the blocks of clay available here. A fingertip smooths down the side of a particularly well-proportioned block: ]
As you know, I've always had a soft spot for creations made from the earth.
Not that Zhongli does not want to spend time with Neuvillette. Quite the opposite. He is pleased to see him and more pleased to see that he seems to be taking a vacation of all things. But even retired as he is, it's always good manners to keep an eye on such a powerful visitor to Liyue. If he can impart some affection for its culture and history, then well, that was only an added bonus. ]
Yes. But please, do not rush on my account. Such an activity should be done at one's leisure especially if it's your first time experiencing it.
[ Though he does not begin to form anything with it, Zhongli also leans over to admire the blocks of clay available here. A fingertip smooths down the side of a particularly well-proportioned block: ]
As you know, I've always had a soft spot for creations made from the earth.
It's only natural to be drawn to the element you have an affinity for.
[ With the auntie listening in on their conversation, Neuvillette chooses his words with care, not wanting to say anything that could be interpreted as him calling the other man the late Rex Lapis. Despite his personal dislike for the man, he can at least respect his decision to retire and permanently take on the persona of an ordinary citizen. The truth coming out could have consequences for Liyue as well, disrupting the plans the Qixing have made to have the nation move forward and prosper without their deity. ]
Soil can be granular and unforgiving, but once the right amount of water is added it can be shaped into almost anything. It's relaxing to sit there and create something with my own hands.
[ As the original god of life and progenitor to all native species on Teyvat, creation seems to be innate to him; he just rarely gets the chance to express it with how busy he is. ]
[ With the auntie listening in on their conversation, Neuvillette chooses his words with care, not wanting to say anything that could be interpreted as him calling the other man the late Rex Lapis. Despite his personal dislike for the man, he can at least respect his decision to retire and permanently take on the persona of an ordinary citizen. The truth coming out could have consequences for Liyue as well, disrupting the plans the Qixing have made to have the nation move forward and prosper without their deity. ]
Soil can be granular and unforgiving, but once the right amount of water is added it can be shaped into almost anything. It's relaxing to sit there and create something with my own hands.
[ As the original god of life and progenitor to all native species on Teyvat, creation seems to be innate to him; he just rarely gets the chance to express it with how busy he is. ]
[ Is it arrogant that Zhongli has not worried once about Neuvillette exposing him? Probably. But here he'd been hiding in plain sight for a long expanse of time after his retirement, and even if more and more people gradually knew the truth, the world still deemed Rex Lapis dead.
So arrogance, yes, but also confidence in knowing that he is correct. ]
I am glad that you find such a task relaxing and further glad to hear that you have found the time to relax at all.
[ Long was the list of repairs needed in Fontaine after all and stronger still was the Chief Justice's dedication to his duties. ]
Upon our last parting, I was under the impression that I would not be seeing you for quite some time. And least of all, here in Liyue.
Does that mean the situation in Fontaine has been progressing better than expected?
So arrogance, yes, but also confidence in knowing that he is correct. ]
I am glad that you find such a task relaxing and further glad to hear that you have found the time to relax at all.
[ Long was the list of repairs needed in Fontaine after all and stronger still was the Chief Justice's dedication to his duties. ]
Upon our last parting, I was under the impression that I would not be seeing you for quite some time. And least of all, here in Liyue.
Does that mean the situation in Fontaine has been progressing better than expected?
Reconstruction efforts are proceeding smoothly and several major projects have been completed ahead of schedule. I am proud of what Fontaine's citizens have accomplished.
[ He speaks warmly, his tone like that of a father speaking proudly of his children's accomplishments; and in a sense, he is a father not only to the Melusines but to all of Fontaine. He granted them the humanity Egeria never could, after all, creating a race of humans that could actually be considered native to the world. He admires their tenacity to persevere after a disaster and the strength of will they possess. That's why he willingly scatters fragments of his power into the world, allowing them to take the form of Visions by those with ambition. ]
I also discovered that I am not... quite as confined to Fontaine as I initially assumed.
[ A lie. He had known all along that he could leave and still supply the nation with power, even if he cannot go very far. ]
[ He speaks warmly, his tone like that of a father speaking proudly of his children's accomplishments; and in a sense, he is a father not only to the Melusines but to all of Fontaine. He granted them the humanity Egeria never could, after all, creating a race of humans that could actually be considered native to the world. He admires their tenacity to persevere after a disaster and the strength of will they possess. That's why he willingly scatters fragments of his power into the world, allowing them to take the form of Visions by those with ambition. ]
I also discovered that I am not... quite as confined to Fontaine as I initially assumed.
[ A lie. He had known all along that he could leave and still supply the nation with power, even if he cannot go very far. ]
[ Ah, there it is again. That pride and fondness that Neuvillette feels for everything Fontaine. Despite the fact the changes in expression are subtle and nuanced (as if Rex Lapis could criticize anyone for that!), it warms Zhongli's heart to have a leader speak of their nation so. Over time and over death, the world had changed so much and so had the Archons' relationship with their people. The way Neuvillette speaks is almost nostalgic of those bygone days where the Seven would wine and dine together. (But surely the Chief Justice would not be pleased to hear such a comparison.) ]
Some confines are of our own making. That you are to see through the illusion of yours so quickly—
[ Ah. Is probably too deep a conversation for pottery. For once, Zhongli seems to abandon that line of thought instead of continue to ramble on. ]
Well, I am pleased to see you here in Liyue.
[ A quick tilt of his head as he looks at the shape becoming more and more formed between the steady press of Neuvillette's hands. How charming. It's not hard to tell what it is from the overall shape, craftsmanship notwithstanding. But Zhongli asks anyway: ]
So what is it that you are crafting?
Some confines are of our own making. That you are to see through the illusion of yours so quickly—
[ Ah. Is probably too deep a conversation for pottery. For once, Zhongli seems to abandon that line of thought instead of continue to ramble on. ]
Well, I am pleased to see you here in Liyue.
[ A quick tilt of his head as he looks at the shape becoming more and more formed between the steady press of Neuvillette's hands. How charming. It's not hard to tell what it is from the overall shape, craftsmanship notwithstanding. But Zhongli asks anyway: ]
So what is it that you are crafting?
A soup ladle. Since I am not used to working with clay, I wanted to make something that is both useful and not too complicated.
[ One of his initial ideas was a wolf-themed teapot for Wriothesley, but he couldn't work out a doable design for such a thing in his head so he scrapped it. Besides, he already intends to gift the man a handmade legal codex in addition to ten boxes of green tea. A third gift on top that might be a little too much. ]
It's designed to resemble a water-dwelling dragon, albeit a heavily stylized one. [ The dragon in question being himself if he hadn't been reborn in human flesh, but he makes sure to keep his wording vague enough so the auntie won't catch on, trusting that Zhongli will understand what he means. ]
If I recall correctly, this Lantern Rite marks the beginning of the year of the dragon in Liyue's traditional calendar. Making one in clay would be appropriate for the occasion.
[ One of his initial ideas was a wolf-themed teapot for Wriothesley, but he couldn't work out a doable design for such a thing in his head so he scrapped it. Besides, he already intends to gift the man a handmade legal codex in addition to ten boxes of green tea. A third gift on top that might be a little too much. ]
It's designed to resemble a water-dwelling dragon, albeit a heavily stylized one. [ The dragon in question being himself if he hadn't been reborn in human flesh, but he makes sure to keep his wording vague enough so the auntie won't catch on, trusting that Zhongli will understand what he means. ]
If I recall correctly, this Lantern Rite marks the beginning of the year of the dragon in Liyue's traditional calendar. Making one in clay would be appropriate for the occasion.
You are correct that it is the year of the dragon. A very lucky year for those born under its guidance. Though I am interested to see what your version of a hydro dragon might look like. The examples in Liyue lore tend to lean more toward hydras than anything else.
[ Zhongli thinks back to the recent battles with Osial and Beisht — their many heads rising up in flawless coordination. How magnificent the two of them were even on the opposing side of the battlefield. ]
Very inconvenient — I would imagine — for you ladle to sprout multiple handles.
[ Even though Neuvillette is almost finished, Zhongli speaks with the polite Auntie who is watching them from the sidelines, procuring a small chunk of clay to do produce his own creation. It seems to not take him too much time to create as it is relatively short and flat, most of the effort being spent on creating the silhouette — rounded and flaring like something that had petals. ]
[ Zhongli thinks back to the recent battles with Osial and Beisht — their many heads rising up in flawless coordination. How magnificent the two of them were even on the opposing side of the battlefield. ]
Very inconvenient — I would imagine — for you ladle to sprout multiple handles.
[ Even though Neuvillette is almost finished, Zhongli speaks with the polite Auntie who is watching them from the sidelines, procuring a small chunk of clay to do produce his own creation. It seems to not take him too much time to create as it is relatively short and flat, most of the effort being spent on creating the silhouette — rounded and flaring like something that had petals. ]
[ Ah, yes, he had heard about those; he recalls the attack on Liyue Harbor being on the front page of the Steambird a few years ago, accompanied by a blurry photograph of a multi-headed deity emerging from the depths of the sea. ]
Very inconvenient indeed.
[ Having finished both fins, Neuillette moves on to give his creation a pair of stubby little legs on the underside of the ladle, though he pauses to look on as Zhongli begins to give shape to his own piece of clay with the skilled movements of someone with both a natural affinity for the earth and millennia of expertise. ]
What are you making, Monsieur?
Very inconvenient indeed.
[ Having finished both fins, Neuillette moves on to give his creation a pair of stubby little legs on the underside of the ladle, though he pauses to look on as Zhongli begins to give shape to his own piece of clay with the skilled movements of someone with both a natural affinity for the earth and millennia of expertise. ]
What are you making, Monsieur?
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