[ Zhongli is taking his usual stroll around the harbor during his break. Maybe escaping Hu Tao in the process, too... His arms lock behind his back as he takes in the bustling streets, the wafting aroma of street food, and—huh. That is some bright orange among the people and it takes Zhongli a couple of blinks before it dawns on him.
He doesn't adjust his pace at all and approaches like he would with any regular person. If only their relationship is that simple. Despite their weird history, it doesn't weigh on Zhongli at all. He calls to him like everything is fine. ]
I didn't expect you to show your face around Liyue, Childe.
[ Only because the citizens are not so fond of the envoy, though Zhongli himself doesn't mind Childe's presence. If anything, he's chuffed to see the other man again. His company has always been pleasant? Very amusing and interesting man. There's also curiosity that tints his eyes...
[So, uhhh, how do inter-dimensional portals work, exactly? This is a question Childe didn't have an answer to until just now, spat out in, mercifully, a quiet and empty back alley where no one saw him. Sure, portals and shit are a thing in their world, but it would still draw attention and raise questions, and those are the last things he needs when he's in Liyue.
--Wait, Liyue?
...Well shit.
For a second, he thinks he might be mistaken. But he'd recognize the harbor anywhere, and more importantly, his Vision responds when taps into it, which means it's real Liyue. The Qixing will have a fit when they learn he's back, wow.
But it's fine? It's fine. He didn't mean to come here, but it'll be easy enough to catch a ship back to Snezhnaya. And the Bank isn't far away, so all he has to do is not get arrested immediately, right? Easy. Sure, pretty much everyone in town knows who he is and despises him now, but he doesn't care about that. As long as they don't bother him, it won't be an issue. The whispers and muttering are going to start the minute he steps out onto the street, but whatever. It's not like he's gonna run into anyone he actually cares about seeing here, haha.
Hahaha.
That sure is the sound of his name!! And two months isn't a terribly long time, but enough has happened since the last time he heard Zhongli's voice that it stops him in his tracks.]
Xiansheng?
[whoops
Of course. Of fucking course. His luck would be this... is it bad? Good?? It's something alright.
But Childe is nothing if not adaptable. So after the initial shock passes, he straightens up a little, lifts his chin, smiles like he's perfectly calm and in control of this whole situation. He can't quite cover up the tension in his shoulders, out of place when he's normally so relaxed, but he can pretend it's not there.]
Ahaha, it was a surprise to me as well. I wasn't planning on coming back so soon!
[ Oh, he caught the other man polishing himself for their encounter. How strange... Childe has always been prepared for any engagement, whether positive or negative. Zhongli's eyebrows lift up slightly, though the rest of his expression conveys not much else. The wording does have him tilting his head. ]
Then you've left and somehow returned.
[ Interesting. While the Fatui have their ways to escaping the eyes of the public, Zhongli has ears everywhere and yet he hasn't heard about the war criminal's departure. Childe just continues to become more peculiar by the second. Zhongli's eyes practically glow in the shadows of the alley as he comes even closer. His posture doesn't change, hands still tightly clasped behind him, but he's scanning Childe's face with meticulous care... He notes every single feature and how they're set, then his body language, searching for anything out of place.
There's something, but he wonders how to address it. ]
I'd invite you for tea if it didn't sound as if you're planning to leave soon. [ His tone is leveled, composed, the same as always, but there's a tint of disappointment that flashes on his face. It's reeled back fast. ] Regardless, welcome back, Childe.
[ He believes it's the least Childe deserves, despite being a Fatui Harbinger that tried to destroy the harbor. The citizens of Liyue may scorn him, but Zhongli does not. ]
Childe is definitely noticeably off his game, it's true--he blinks, unable to do anything but stare for a moment. Isn't this... off? Shouldn't Zhongli be, y'know. ...Y'KNOW!!! Reacting in any way other than this?
Well, no. This makes sense, doesn't it? Because Zhongli is an Archon, whether he's retired or not. Why wouldn't this be exactly how he is? He's a single mortal, in the grand scheme of things. Why would his actions (or feelings, for that matter) garner anything more than a scrap of Zhongli's attention?
(He'd asked, after all. "Doesn't anyone feel the least bit bad for deceiving me?" And the answer was obviously no, which is... fair, but. Still. Wow, he does not need to be thinking about this right now.)
ANYWAY. Wow he should probably say something and stop staring like a weirdo. He scratches the back of his neck.]
I don't mind telling you about it, but it's best as an indoor conversation, I think. [The walls have ears, and all that. It's meant to be an offhanded comment, not an invitation, but there's that flash of disappointment, and Childe is a stupid fucking simp who was not expecting a warm(?) welcome, so.
Without thinking--] I do need to stop by the bank and write a couple of letters, if you'd care to join me? I haven't scheduled a ship home yet.
[ No one feels bad for you, Childe. Not a single soul even if it's not your first choice to involve the citizens. To Zhongli, that's a blip in the past already, though he remembers it much like it happened yesterday. There's barely a shift in his expression. Gold eyes brighten, pleased by the offer. A small nod is what he gives in return before he reaffirms it with words: ]
Yes, I'd like that... To both.
[ He offers the man a small smile, genuinely looking forward to a pleasant stroll to the bank and tall tales of... Wherever the fuck Childe went through. If it left the man in such a disarray, it must be wild. Zhongli has lived many years yet he's caught in his imagination, wanderlust taking him hostage. It'd be nice, he thinks, to travel the world one day. Ultimately, Zhongli doesn't take the lead despite the desire of a scenery change. Instead, he stands that and stares at Childe, expecting him to take that responsibility himself as the one that invited him.
A simp must cater to their king. Go on, Childe, or just stand there and take on Zhongli's unyielding stare. ]
ANYWAY. It's fine, he doesn't mind taking the lead. How many times had he initially invited Zhongli out to eat before they'd settled into a routine? He hasn't been gone long enough to fall out of the habit, apparently--setting off down the street feels perfectly natural, and he knows his way around well enough by now that his feet move on autopilot.
Good thing, too, because it gives him a chance to settle, to reach for his usual attitude and demeanor. All of this is still a lot, but he's adaptable to an unnatural degree, so he simply hooks his thumbs in his pockets and sets off.
As expected, they get stares and whispers, but Childe keeps his attention only on Zhongli. It's his turn to stare, now, looking for... something. Something different--but there's nothing. Gnosis or not, Zhongli seems the same as ever, to him.]
Childe has invited Zhongli an unfortunate amount of times outside of work, though Zhongli has found it as supplements to their business relationship. All enjoyed on a personal level, of course—he finds it quite amusing to watch Childe struggle with chopsticks. Anyway, he follows Childe to the bank, walking beside him as an equal. The whispers are of little importance to him.
To the question, he nods after going over his days as a "mortal." ]
It has. [ He crosses his arms across his chest, expression twisting. ] Though... As of late, I've experienced a struggle that the people all endure. It will take time to adjust.
[Listen, one of these days he's going to march back into Liyue as a chopsticks MASTER, just you wait.
Childe, for his part, keeps his attention divided between Zhongli and the people around them--not unusual for him, honestly, though he's a bit more alert than normal. Mostly he's keeping an eye on the Millelith, since they're the ones most likely to try and start shit even when he's with Zhongli. He's not sure whether or not the Qixing had spread word of his exact departure date, but he wouldn't put it past them tbh.]
[ ....................... It's not that he's embarrassed, but the traveler has kind of made it a note that Zhongli seems to always forget about something so important. ]
Mora. [ AS IF HE NEEDS TO CLARIFY: ] The lack thereof.
[The hilarious part is that I did a postgame thread with Britt where Childe realized he never stopped to think about what Zhongli does with his theoretical paycheck. Very funny.
You know what else is very funny? Honestly, this, somehow. The answer is so predictable, so painfully familiar after so many weeks at the station, that it startles genuine laughter out of him. Oh Zhongli.]
You really never change, do you? [God. And apparently neither does he, because he doesn't let himself think too hard about it when he says--] Don't worry, I'll take care of it before I go.
[Is he still kind of mad? Yeah. Is everything still complicated? Definitely. But it's occurring to him, for possibly the first time, that he could've really, truly died back at the station. Gone for good, never to have this easy camaraderie again, never to realize that he'd already begun to miss it.
Ugh. He's so much weaker than any of them ever knew.]
[ Zhongli stays quiet and watches Childe laugh as they ascend the steps to the bank… Their past engagements over mora were rehearsals for his mortal life and now they’re being realized—Zhongli is legitimately broke and he cares little for Fatui coffers. There’s no reason to reject the offer.
Still… There’s some surprise that Childe claims the provider role again, despite recent events. Though airheaded, Zhongli can tell Childe was a bit upset (he is still a bit upset).
Does he regret what he did? No. Does he feel bad for Childe…? No. Did he expect Childe to pay for his new mortal expenses? Very big no. Zhongli’s expression doesn’t change despite his musing. ]
It’s a tricky skill to learn… Trickier to hone it into instinct. [ no booli because he forgets to budget ] I’ll leave it to you.
[ The guards greet them, Zhongli reciprocating. The doors open and here they are in the bank. ]
Is one of the letters you plan to write addressed to your family?
Lucky for us that it is, really. Otherwise we'd lose a major entry route to Liyue's economy. [Sure, the Fatui have their fingers in other pies (arms dealing, black markets, even some legitimate business ventures here and there), but their most lucrative operation here is definitely loans and debt collection. As a Harbinger, Childe's got more wealth than he knows what to do with, but it's not like the other Fatui are strapped for cash either. (Well, unless they're stupid, but that's not his problem.)]
Spend a week or two with my mother, she'll make you an expert at it in no time at all. [Sometimes you manage a household of 257863587 kids and there is simply no choice but to budget wisely... but anyway. He lifts a hand at the guards, acting for all the world like it's not supremely weird for him to be back here after he already left. Vlad greets him with a startled "sir?", but Childe doesn't stop to respond as they head inside. Ekaterina is clearly surprised to him too, but he doesn't acknowledge her beyond a little wave either, dodging the counter and leading the way up the steps so they can go talk in his office.]
Ah, yes--I'll have to let them know I'll be later than expected. [He sighs, running a hand through his hair.] I was supposed to, ah, "return" directly there, but it didn't work out.
Most fortunate. However, the Fatui's charm never tempered the Qixing's Tianquan. Whatever favor curried in Liyue has also waned due to recent events.
[ Another way to say he isn't sure how long Northland Bank will stay, though he thinks that ties with Snezhnaya would be for the benefit of both countries. Fatui handlings... Well. Not his problem. Most likely not Childe's problem now, at least once he leaves. He takes note that the guards are surprised. The mystery manifests in their expressions and reactions, piquing his interest again, but he holds his questions for when they reach Childe's office. With a gander, he instinctively searches for small changes since his last visit, choosing to stand until he's allowed a seat.
He offers a small smile at the mention of Childe's family. Even if Childe is a little rascal, he's someone's little rascal. Zhongli is amused, imagining his family learning about Childe's little misdeeds in a faraway land. ]
Life is about stumbling to find your way and I will also stumble. Putting accounts and balances aside, it would be a pleasure to meet your mother.
[ Just for a little hang out (is this a good idea). He'd like to travel again. Speaking of travel, Childe has given him a bone. ]
[Gosh Zhongli WHOSE FAULT IS THAT. It's true that Childe doesn't particularly care about the fate of the Bank, though he's quite confident that they won't be strongarmed out of Liyue that easily--they're incredibly good at embedding themselves into the hearts of other nations, after all. Still, he'll have to look for alternate placements for his staff here, should they need or want them. They served him well, after all, especially given his penchant for trouble.
Of course, that train of thought is immediately derailed at the idea of Zhongli meeting his parents--though at least in this case it's not that weird, since Childe talks about his family almost as much as he talks about fighting. The chances of Zhongli subtly making fun of him are... not nonexistent, but they're probably low, he guesses. Still, he side-eyes his companion in a way that he never would've before the truth came out, not bothering to hide the way he's clearly trying to assess Zhongli's true intentions.]
Fight me and I'll think about it. [WHY IS THAT HIS ULTIMATUM. What an idiot.
But he sighs, then, closing and locking the door behind them. Childe never really tried that hard to make the office personal, but now it's tidy in a way that speaks of a lack of use. Childe's replacement, whoever they may be, clearly hasn't arrived yet.
It's habit to pull out a chair for Zhongli on the way to his own seat, and honestly, he's too tired to let himself feel skittish about sinking so easily back into familiarity. Quite frankly, he doesn't want to deal with himself right now. Instead, he pulls something out of his pocket, props his feet up on the desk, and places it down on the table for Zhongli to see.
It's the phone from the station; that, apparently, is his initial response to the unspoken question.]
[ Zhongli would only ever say the truth. And if referencing the trouble Childe caused is the answer to his parents’ questions, he will choose his words wisely. At the very least, Zhongli’s intentions aren’t nefarious.
No comment on the proposition—Childe will be Childe—or the look. He imagines he deserves some scrutiny after having deceived Childe for his whole stay in the harbor. It’s no bother. Some steps forward to the desk, he hovers over the phone. He blinks once, twice, quickly understanding the Answer. ]
… It is… Some kind of device?
[ Zhongli thinks it looks like something he has heard about from the strange adventurer Alice, but he still isn’t sure. Another step to one side, neck craning to examine it at a different angle. ]
[He waves a hand in permission, nodding. Zhongli's PULLED SOME SHIT and Childe can't ever look at him the same way again, but that doesn't mean he can't trust him at all. The meticulous care with which Zhongli treats everything isn't likely to have vanished now that the truth is out between them.]
A "phone", it's called. It's a bit like a very fast letter courier--you can send a message directly to another person, as long as they have one of these devices too.
[They could also take pictures with them iirc but Childe's a loser and never used that function so moving on. He watches Zhongli's face as he continues.]
It's also capable of transporting people to other worlds.
[ "Meticulous care" from someone who has forgotten the concept of a savings account and the logistics of retirement. When given permission, he lifts up the phone so he can properly look through it. Childe's description makes sense to him? It's like when he wants to send visions to people in the form of dreams, right? Except, you know, not like heavenly messages. Possibly more... Lowkey.
Somehow, some way, Zhongli finds the camera, though he doesn't take a picture. Next, he finds contacts, but also leaves that be. He chooses not to snoop. His curiosity doesn't falter, gold eyes still glowing with piqued interest. ]
This could serve as a good alternative to recording history on stone tablets. [ Mention of worlds draws his attention back to his initial guess. ] And the ability to cross worlds is powerful.
[ His gaze lifts off the phone, meeting Childe's. ]
You must have gone through many trials to receive such a boon.
[That's because savings accounts and retirement only count as treasures to us sad millennials in the future... it's fine.
Also fine is Zhongli going through the phone as thoroughly (or not) as he pleases; mostly because, even if he had snooped through Childe's messages, he wouldn't have found anything particularly exciting. Childe's been Fatui for far too long to put any trust in unsecured methods of correspondence.]
So it is! If I'd had it before Her Majesty set her plan into motion, perhaps our paths never would've crossed, you and I.
[Well, maybe that's not true. The Tsaritsa's goals are specific to their world, after all, and the gnoses are a key factor that wouldn't be found in other worlds. Still, maybe it would've meant actually involving him? NOT SIGNORA? God. (He's not salty you're salty)
Ah, but there's no sense in dwelling on what-ifs. He smiles, though his eyes are as dull as ever.]
Ahaha, please, I don't ever want to hear that word again! ["TRIALS". GOD. FUCK YOU MILES EDGEWORTH, WHEREVER YOU ARE.] You're more correct than you know. By the way, dying is only a novel experience the first time--I really don't recommend doing it twice.
[ You’re right. CEO of GEO doesn’t see them as luxuries. Zhongli’s expression only grows more inquisitive as Childe paints a what-if, but doesn’t comment on it. Either he feels he isn’t in the position to do so or it’s that his silence is import.
Yeah, maybe it has to do with Signora.
Then Childe just says THINGS and the smartphone in Zhongli’s hand is an afterthought. He blinks with some surprise tinting his features.
Like. A part of him thinks this is funny and very Childe, but also…
Uh. ]
You died, Childe? [ ??? ] All comes to an end, but… I had always thought if something were to persevere against the elements and the odds, it would be you.
[ Zhongli means like a cockroach, but not derogatory if that’s even possible. ]
[Yeah that's fair. He hears the comment for what it is and laughs, leaning back in his chair.]
I'll take that compliment, thank you. But yes--twice, in fact. Apparently death and I don't get along.
[Childe really does have a track record of surviving things he shouldn't. Granted, the second revival at the station hadn't been exclusive to him, but still.
He takes a minute to enjoy the surprise on Zhongli's face before he continues.]
Shortly after we parted ways, I was given an invitation of sorts. I'd anticipated some kind of deadly trap, and I suppose it was meant to be, in a roundabout way... our hosts intended to betray us in the end, to free themselves from some kind of technological beast. [And to get their wishes but he's not telling Zhongli about that part.] Before that, though, we were rewarded for killing each other--so long as you covered your tracks, and you were able to get away with it.
[ Are you trying to impress him with dying and reviving twice…? He only grows more concerned as Childe describes his little escapade.
Zhongli looks back down at the smartphone, seeing it in a different light. This was part of a murder ring!!!! ]
I see.
[ What a violent and underhanded game, but he can’t judge—he doesn’t know the circumstances. Also, Zhongli is sure Childe probably killed a little. ]
There’s no reason for you to accept unless it serves the Tsaritsa’s interests. [ At least, that’s what he thinks. Worldhopping is the initial scope. ] Was it worth it?
...Well. Not intentionally, anyway. There is, of course, that underlying thread of hard-earned arrogance, the kind only a particularly audacious mortal can possess--and hey, if it's undercut by that lingering, unspoken desire for acknowledgment, then it's not something he's consciously aware of.)
AND YEAH, SURPRISE!! IT'S A MURDER PHONE. The response makes him smile, for how loyal it makes him sound--but he doesn't particularly want to talk about how he'd mostly been hoping for a big violent battle royale to shake off the events of their parting, so he just inclines his head like he's thinking about it. Besides, Zhongli isn't wrong--even the things Childe does for his own gain, he freely offers to his own Archon too.]
Yes, I'd say so. It was a disappointing experience overall--far too many civilians were involved for my tastes. [They weren't even civilians they just didn't want to fight him for fun tch] But I got what I went for, and I'm here now, so I can't say it wasn't a success.
[He also adopted yet another a sister but like it's fine ("what about the rest of his cr" what about them)
His gaze turns distant, then, thoughtful.]
I was cut off from my Vision there, you know. I hadn't realized that was possible.
I wonder why the invitation was extended to them then... Perhaps their desire is as strong as yours. [ He isn't sure. It's a curiosity. ] Now that you've returned, I'm sure you'll find a worthwhile brawl.
[ As if the traveler didn't tattle on Childe, though Zhongli has been somewhat aware. Still, to drag civilians in such a setting doesn't sit right. Childe is a war criminal with little regards to his limits and he's being told a regular John Smith had to deal with him?
Zhongli closes his eyes for a pause, silently sending his condolences to all those civilians for suffering an extremely heterosexual execution. He crosses his arms, expression edging grim. ]
To be without one's Vision is to be without dreams and ambitions. It's good to see the severing didn't have lasting effects, or else you'd be a hollow shell. [ ... ] You are well?
You'd think so, wouldn't you? I can't agree, but perhaps you archons would see it differently.
[Of course he can't... but Childe left the station with the same opinion he had when he entered. If you aren't willing to kill and die for it, do you want it that badly?
AND LISTEN... yeah. It isn't like he wanted it that way--he'd almost rather watch paint dry than waste his time cutting down weaklings--but he's always been one to adapt to a situation.]
It's alright, though. There were a handful of people there whose strength stood up to mine. [THAT'S NOT WHAT ZHONGLI CARES ABOUT CHILDE you dumb fuck.
But--ah. He looks at Zhongli for a long moment, and there's a flash of something conflicted in his eyes--but it's gone quickly, and he lifts a hand to form one of his favored Hydro blades. He doesn't point it at Zhongli, instead simply twirling it comfortably to show that it's just as stable as it was before.]
I'm fine, don't worry. I felt it return just before I left the station.
[
...Okay maybe he has some Thoughts about Zhongli asking after him like this but listen he doesn't want to think about it. It's fine!!! Ignoring that to instead grin at him and quip--]
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welcomes childe back from 7rings except doesn't
He doesn't adjust his pace at all and approaches like he would with any regular person. If only their relationship is that simple. Despite their weird history, it doesn't weigh on Zhongli at all. He calls to him like everything is fine. ]
I didn't expect you to show your face around Liyue, Childe.
[ Only because the citizens are not so fond of the envoy, though Zhongli himself doesn't mind Childe's presence. If anything, he's chuffed to see the other man again. His company has always been pleasant? Very amusing and interesting man. There's also curiosity that tints his eyes...
Is Childe scheming? ]
I'm already tired
--Wait, Liyue?
...Well shit.
For a second, he thinks he might be mistaken. But he'd recognize the harbor anywhere, and more importantly, his Vision responds when taps into it, which means it's real Liyue. The Qixing will have a fit when they learn he's back, wow.
But it's fine? It's fine. He didn't mean to come here, but it'll be easy enough to catch a ship back to Snezhnaya. And the Bank isn't far away, so all he has to do is not get arrested immediately, right? Easy. Sure, pretty much everyone in town knows who he is and despises him now, but he doesn't care about that. As long as they don't bother him, it won't be an issue. The whispers and muttering are going to start the minute he steps out onto the street, but whatever. It's not like he's gonna run into anyone he actually cares about seeing here, haha.
Hahaha.
That sure is the sound of his name!! And two months isn't a terribly long time, but enough has happened since the last time he heard Zhongli's voice that it stops him in his tracks.]
Xiansheng?
[whoops
Of course. Of fucking course. His luck would be this... is it bad? Good?? It's something alright.
But Childe is nothing if not adaptable. So after the initial shock passes, he straightens up a little, lifts his chin, smiles like he's perfectly calm and in control of this whole situation. He can't quite cover up the tension in his shoulders, out of place when he's normally so relaxed, but he can pretend it's not there.]
Ahaha, it was a surprise to me as well. I wasn't planning on coming back so soon!
[But here he is... surprise...]
i'm tired reading this
Then you've left and somehow returned.
[ Interesting. While the Fatui have their ways to escaping the eyes of the public, Zhongli has ears everywhere and yet he hasn't heard about the war criminal's departure. Childe just continues to become more peculiar by the second. Zhongli's eyes practically glow in the shadows of the alley as he comes even closer. His posture doesn't change, hands still tightly clasped behind him, but he's scanning Childe's face with meticulous care... He notes every single feature and how they're set, then his body language, searching for anything out of place.
There's something, but he wonders how to address it. ]
I'd invite you for tea if it didn't sound as if you're planning to leave soon. [ His tone is leveled, composed, the same as always, but there's a tint of disappointment that flashes on his face. It's reeled back fast. ] Regardless, welcome back, Childe.
[ He believes it's the least Childe deserves, despite being a Fatui Harbinger that tried to destroy the harbor. The citizens of Liyue may scorn him, but Zhongli does not. ]
believe me so am I
Childe is definitely noticeably off his game, it's true--he blinks, unable to do anything but stare for a moment. Isn't this... off? Shouldn't Zhongli be, y'know. ...Y'KNOW!!! Reacting in any way other than this?
Well, no. This makes sense, doesn't it? Because Zhongli is an Archon, whether he's retired or not. Why wouldn't this be exactly how he is? He's a single mortal, in the grand scheme of things. Why would his actions (or feelings, for that matter) garner anything more than a scrap of Zhongli's attention?
(He'd asked, after all. "Doesn't anyone feel the least bit bad for deceiving me?" And the answer was obviously no, which is... fair, but. Still. Wow, he does not need to be thinking about this right now.)
ANYWAY. Wow he should probably say something and stop staring like a weirdo. He scratches the back of his neck.]
I don't mind telling you about it, but it's best as an indoor conversation, I think. [The walls have ears, and all that. It's meant to be an offhanded comment, not an invitation, but there's that flash of disappointment, and Childe is a stupid fucking simp who was not expecting a warm(?) welcome, so.
Without thinking--] I do need to stop by the bank and write a couple of letters, if you'd care to join me? I haven't scheduled a ship home yet.
no subject
Yes, I'd like that... To both.
[ He offers the man a small smile, genuinely looking forward to a pleasant stroll to the bank and tall tales of... Wherever the fuck Childe went through. If it left the man in such a disarray, it must be wild. Zhongli has lived many years yet he's caught in his imagination, wanderlust taking him hostage. It'd be nice, he thinks, to travel the world one day. Ultimately, Zhongli doesn't take the lead despite the desire of a scenery change. Instead, he stands that and stares at Childe, expecting him to take that responsibility himself as the one that invited him.
A simp must cater to their king. Go on, Childe, or just stand there and take on Zhongli's unyielding stare. ]
crawls back here
ANYWAY. It's fine, he doesn't mind taking the lead. How many times had he initially invited Zhongli out to eat before they'd settled into a routine? He hasn't been gone long enough to fall out of the habit, apparently--setting off down the street feels perfectly natural, and he knows his way around well enough by now that his feet move on autopilot.
Good thing, too, because it gives him a chance to settle, to reach for his usual attitude and demeanor. All of this is still a lot, but he's adaptable to an unnatural degree, so he simply hooks his thumbs in his pockets and sets off.
As expected, they get stares and whispers, but Childe keeps his attention only on Zhongli. It's his turn to stare, now, looking for... something. Something different--but there's nothing. Gnosis or not, Zhongli seems the same as ever, to him.]
Mortality treating you well so far?
me laughing at myself and you
Childe has invited Zhongli an unfortunate amount of times outside of work, though Zhongli has found it as supplements to their business relationship. All enjoyed on a personal level, of course—he finds it quite amusing to watch Childe struggle with chopsticks. Anyway, he follows Childe to the bank, walking beside him as an equal. The whispers are of little importance to him.
To the question, he nods after going over his days as a "mortal." ]
It has. [ He crosses his arms across his chest, expression twisting. ] Though... As of late, I've experienced a struggle that the people all endure. It will take time to adjust.
STOP
Childe, for his part, keeps his attention divided between Zhongli and the people around them--not unusual for him, honestly, though he's a bit more alert than normal. Mostly he's keeping an eye on the Millelith, since they're the ones most likely to try and start shit even when he's with Zhongli. He's not sure whether or not the Qixing had spread word of his exact departure date, but he wouldn't put it past them tbh.]
Oh? What struggle is that, xiansheng?
i'M JUST EXIsting
Mora. [ AS IF HE NEEDS TO CLARIFY: ] The lack thereof.
YOU EXIST TO CAUSE ME PAIN AND SUFFERING
You know what else is very funny? Honestly, this, somehow. The answer is so predictable, so painfully familiar after so many weeks at the station, that it startles genuine laughter out of him. Oh Zhongli.]
You really never change, do you? [God. And apparently neither does he, because he doesn't let himself think too hard about it when he says--] Don't worry, I'll take care of it before I go.
[Is he still kind of mad? Yeah. Is everything still complicated? Definitely. But it's occurring to him, for possibly the first time, that he could've really, truly died back at the station. Gone for good, never to have this easy camaraderie again, never to realize that he'd already begun to miss it.
Ugh. He's so much weaker than any of them ever knew.]
i haven’t done anything
Still… There’s some surprise that Childe claims the provider role again, despite recent events. Though airheaded, Zhongli can tell Childe was a bit upset (he is still a bit upset).
Does he regret what he did? No. Does he feel bad for Childe…? No. Did he expect Childe to pay for his new mortal expenses? Very big no. Zhongli’s expression doesn’t change despite his musing. ]
It’s a tricky skill to learn… Trickier to hone it into instinct. [ no booli because he forgets to budget ] I’ll leave it to you.
[ The guards greet them, Zhongli reciprocating. The doors open and here they are in the bank. ]
Is one of the letters you plan to write addressed to your family?
you have done everything always
Spend a week or two with my mother, she'll make you an expert at it in no time at all. [Sometimes you manage a household of 257863587 kids and there is simply no choice but to budget wisely... but anyway. He lifts a hand at the guards, acting for all the world like it's not supremely weird for him to be back here after he already left. Vlad greets him with a startled "sir?", but Childe doesn't stop to respond as they head inside. Ekaterina is clearly surprised to him too, but he doesn't acknowledge her beyond a little wave either, dodging the counter and leading the way up the steps so they can go talk in his office.]
Ah, yes--I'll have to let them know I'll be later than expected. [He sighs, running a hand through his hair.] I was supposed to, ah, "return" directly there, but it didn't work out.
this is a service
[ Another way to say he isn't sure how long Northland Bank will stay, though he thinks that ties with Snezhnaya would be for the benefit of both countries. Fatui handlings... Well. Not his problem. Most likely not Childe's problem now, at least once he leaves. He takes note that the guards are surprised. The mystery manifests in their expressions and reactions, piquing his interest again, but he holds his questions for when they reach Childe's office. With a gander, he instinctively searches for small changes since his last visit, choosing to stand until he's allowed a seat.
He offers a small smile at the mention of Childe's family. Even if Childe is a little rascal, he's someone's little rascal. Zhongli is amused, imagining his family learning about Childe's little misdeeds in a faraway land. ]
Life is about stumbling to find your way and I will also stumble. Putting accounts and balances aside, it would be a pleasure to meet your mother.
[ Just for a little hang out (is this a good idea). He'd like to travel again. Speaking of travel, Childe has given him a bone. ]
It sounds as if you took an unexpected detour.
I wish to cancel my subscription
[Gosh Zhongli WHOSE FAULT IS THAT. It's true that Childe doesn't particularly care about the fate of the Bank, though he's quite confident that they won't be strongarmed out of Liyue that easily--they're incredibly good at embedding themselves into the hearts of other nations, after all. Still, he'll have to look for alternate placements for his staff here, should they need or want them. They served him well, after all, especially given his penchant for trouble.
Of course, that train of thought is immediately derailed at the idea of Zhongli meeting his parents--though at least in this case it's not that weird, since Childe talks about his family almost as much as he talks about fighting. The chances of Zhongli subtly making fun of him are... not nonexistent, but they're probably low, he guesses. Still, he side-eyes his companion in a way that he never would've before the truth came out, not bothering to hide the way he's clearly trying to assess Zhongli's true intentions.]
Fight me and I'll think about it. [WHY IS THAT HIS ULTIMATUM. What an idiot.
But he sighs, then, closing and locking the door behind them. Childe never really tried that hard to make the office personal, but now it's tidy in a way that speaks of a lack of use. Childe's replacement, whoever they may be, clearly hasn't arrived yet.
It's habit to pull out a chair for Zhongli on the way to his own seat, and honestly, he's too tired to let himself feel skittish about sinking so easily back into familiarity. Quite frankly, he doesn't want to deal with himself right now. Instead, he pulls something out of his pocket, props his feet up on the desk, and places it down on the table for Zhongli to see.
It's the phone from the station; that, apparently, is his initial response to the unspoken question.]
you can’t i’m sorry
No comment on the proposition—Childe will be Childe—or the look. He imagines he deserves some scrutiny after having deceived Childe for his whole stay in the harbor. It’s no bother. Some steps forward to the desk, he hovers over the phone. He blinks once, twice, quickly understanding the Answer. ]
… It is… Some kind of device?
[ Zhongli thinks it looks like something he has heard about from the strange adventurer Alice, but he still isn’t sure. Another step to one side, neck craning to examine it at a different angle. ]
May I handle it?
I hate this
A "phone", it's called. It's a bit like a very fast letter courier--you can send a message directly to another person, as long as they have one of these devices too.
[They could also take pictures with them iirc but Childe's a loser and never used that function so moving on. He watches Zhongli's face as he continues.]
It's also capable of transporting people to other worlds.
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Somehow, some way, Zhongli finds the camera, though he doesn't take a picture. Next, he finds contacts, but also leaves that be. He chooses not to snoop. His curiosity doesn't falter, gold eyes still glowing with piqued interest. ]
This could serve as a good alternative to recording history on stone tablets. [ Mention of worlds draws his attention back to his initial guess. ] And the ability to cross worlds is powerful.
[ His gaze lifts off the phone, meeting Childe's. ]
You must have gone through many trials to receive such a boon.
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Also fine is Zhongli going through the phone as thoroughly (or not) as he pleases; mostly because, even if he had snooped through Childe's messages, he wouldn't have found anything particularly exciting. Childe's been Fatui for far too long to put any trust in unsecured methods of correspondence.]
So it is! If I'd had it before Her Majesty set her plan into motion, perhaps our paths never would've crossed, you and I.
[Well, maybe that's not true. The Tsaritsa's goals are specific to their world, after all, and the gnoses are a key factor that wouldn't be found in other worlds. Still, maybe it would've meant actually involving him? NOT SIGNORA? God. (He's not salty you're salty)
Ah, but there's no sense in dwelling on what-ifs. He smiles, though his eyes are as dull as ever.]
Ahaha, please, I don't ever want to hear that word again! ["TRIALS". GOD. FUCK YOU MILES EDGEWORTH, WHEREVER YOU ARE.] You're more correct than you know. By the way, dying is only a novel experience the first time--I really don't recommend doing it twice.
[DON'T JUST SAY IT LIKE THAT.]
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Yeah, maybe it has to do with Signora.
Then Childe just says THINGS and the smartphone in Zhongli’s hand is an afterthought. He blinks with some surprise tinting his features.
Like. A part of him thinks this is funny and very Childe, but also…
Uh. ]
You died, Childe? [ ??? ] All comes to an end, but… I had always thought if something were to persevere against the elements and the odds, it would be you.
[ Zhongli means like a cockroach, but not derogatory if that’s even possible. ]
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I'll take that compliment, thank you. But yes--twice, in fact. Apparently death and I don't get along.
[Childe really does have a track record of surviving things he shouldn't. Granted, the second revival at the station hadn't been exclusive to him, but still.
He takes a minute to enjoy the surprise on Zhongli's face before he continues.]
Shortly after we parted ways, I was given an invitation of sorts. I'd anticipated some kind of deadly trap, and I suppose it was meant to be, in a roundabout way... our hosts intended to betray us in the end, to free themselves from some kind of technological beast. [And to get their wishes but he's not telling Zhongli about that part.] Before that, though, we were rewarded for killing each other--so long as you covered your tracks, and you were able to get away with it.
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Zhongli looks back down at the smartphone, seeing it in a different light. This was part of a murder ring!!!! ]
I see.
[ What a violent and underhanded game, but he can’t judge—he doesn’t know the circumstances. Also, Zhongli is sure Childe probably killed a little. ]
There’s no reason for you to accept unless it serves the Tsaritsa’s interests. [ At least, that’s what he thinks. Worldhopping is the initial scope. ] Was it worth it?
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...Well. Not intentionally, anyway. There is, of course, that underlying thread of hard-earned arrogance, the kind only a particularly audacious mortal can possess--and hey, if it's undercut by that lingering, unspoken desire for acknowledgment, then it's not something he's consciously aware of.)
AND YEAH, SURPRISE!! IT'S A MURDER PHONE. The response makes him smile, for how loyal it makes him sound--but he doesn't particularly want to talk about how he'd mostly been hoping for a big violent battle royale to shake off the events of their parting, so he just inclines his head like he's thinking about it. Besides, Zhongli isn't wrong--even the things Childe does for his own gain, he freely offers to his own Archon too.]
Yes, I'd say so. It was a disappointing experience overall--far too many civilians were involved for my tastes. [They weren't even civilians they just didn't want to fight him for fun tch] But I got what I went for, and I'm here now, so I can't say it wasn't a success.
[He also adopted yet another a sister but like it's fine ("what about the rest of his cr" what about them)
His gaze turns distant, then, thoughtful.]
I was cut off from my Vision there, you know. I hadn't realized that was possible.
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[ As if the traveler didn't tattle on Childe, though Zhongli has been somewhat aware. Still, to drag civilians in such a setting doesn't sit right. Childe is a war criminal with little regards to his limits and he's being told a regular John Smith had to deal with him?
Zhongli closes his eyes for a pause, silently sending his condolences to all those civilians for suffering an extremely heterosexual execution. He crosses his arms, expression edging grim. ]
To be without one's Vision is to be without dreams and ambitions. It's good to see the severing didn't have lasting effects, or else you'd be a hollow shell. [ ... ] You are well?
tries to remember what I'm doing
[Of course he can't... but Childe left the station with the same opinion he had when he entered. If you aren't willing to kill and die for it, do you want it that badly?
AND LISTEN... yeah. It isn't like he wanted it that way--he'd almost rather watch paint dry than waste his time cutting down weaklings--but he's always been one to adapt to a situation.]
It's alright, though. There were a handful of people there whose strength stood up to mine. [THAT'S NOT WHAT ZHONGLI CARES ABOUT CHILDE you dumb fuck.
But--ah. He looks at Zhongli for a long moment, and there's a flash of something conflicted in his eyes--but it's gone quickly, and he lifts a hand to form one of his favored Hydro blades. He doesn't point it at Zhongli, instead simply twirling it comfortably to show that it's just as stable as it was before.]
I'm fine, don't worry. I felt it return just before I left the station.
[
...Okay maybe he has some Thoughts about Zhongli asking after him like this but listen he doesn't want to think about it. It's fine!!! Ignoring that to instead grin at him and quip--]
My ambition can't be crushed that easily, anyway.