brokebitchmountain | noctiumrp OVERFLOW POST ( TDM JANUARY 2021 )

noctiumrp OVERFLOW POST ( TDM JANUARY 2021 )

Welcome Wagon - 1

[ The arrival had not been what he was expecting but of course for a being such as him getting sick was nothing short of extraordinary in terms of how it managed to happen. It’s because of such happenings that Zhongli can be found with his arms crossed over his chest overlooking the planet below them from the Nova Mobile Sky Station. A perplexing and intriguing beginning, no doubt about that, and having heard the tales told by those GemSci researchers he is merely reflecting upon it. ]

A new god but those ruled by it are even afraid when spoken of…

[ He might murmur to himself as the lord of geo he finds it odd that such a thing would be present. What god would rule its people so that mere mentions would bring a fear upon their faces? His brows knit tighter as another ‘hm’ passes his lips. ]

Welcome Wagon – 2

[ It’s been a few days since arriving here and Zhongli can be found roaming about, often he looks at things he has no idea what they are. Mostly all the scientific and technologically advanced items are beyond even his realm of knowledge, something that the well-learned man does not take kindly to. So in order to pass the time he might ask about a few things within the rec rooms. ]

I beg your pardon, but do you happen to know what this is? [ He motions to a TV set upon the wall, burnished red eyes looking at the thing with some mild intrigue. ]

All that Glitters - 1

[ Distractions are something that Zhongli is easily taken in by. The more otherworldly and stranger this place begins to show itself as the more distracted and intrigued he becomes. He will be wandering about the city and as he goes about the streets stopping at various shops on his long and for the most part expensive detour. Zhongli of course does not have any money with him as per usual but being new here is also a factor in that as well. He has taken a keep interest in a gem cut necklace made of amber and jade and if you should be nearby while he examines it, he definitely makes a motion to show you.

After all, Zhongli is a purveyor of rather expensive things. ] The cut and shade of this amber and jade…it is truly one of a kind, is it not? Much like this place that we have ourselves in. I believe this city and place will have much to offer in terms of priceless and exquisite artifacts.

[ Please someone pull him away before he starts to get into debt before he’s even situated here?! ] And here this cup engraved with gemstones cut in a precise way so as to reflect the sun’s light in just the right amount to make it glow…

[ Please someone stop him!!! ]

All that Glitters – 2

[ So. Finding a home and actually having money is a thing now?? Zhongli finds it more curious and amusing, this is not something he has much experience in. But he will be courteous to whoever’s door he knocks upon, waiting for it to open before he greets them. ]

Good afternoon. Do you have a moment of time to spare? I would like to discuss the option of acquiring a residence, specifically this one, should you have the availability and space to accommodate me. [ He sounds way too professional and stuffy!! But at least he's polite about it?? ]

Wildcard

[ If nothing suits your fancy hit me up on plurk @

pathogenic to hash out an open prompt! Zhongli can be found at local shops and eateries most likely spending all his money on nice things and delicious foods…smfh. ]

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(from here!)

I think it's technology.

[Oh, right, people here seem to have manners.]

Zoro, nice to meet you. [He pokes the screen.] I think the technology here is more advanced than the one from home.

It would appear so. Nothing in Teyvat is quite so...polished or advanced. It is a pleasure, Zoro. And from what world do you herald from?

[ Since apparently, people are from different worlds?! Much like the Traveler, although people here don't seem to have such powers. It must have to do either with the god here or whatever this...technology is. Perhaps both?? ]

[[From here!]]

From what I understand, yes. [She herself was just struggling to remember what it was even like to live in a comparatively normal society, so her reaction wasn't as extreme as someone else's might have at his frankly ridiculous observation. But speaking of ridiculous, she remembers something that was mentioned to her about the currency here.] I'm, uh - eheheh - I'm not so certain a hug is going to cover the cost of something like that either!

[As he goes on to suggest services as payment, LB tilts her head as she compares it to her former living situation and nods in consideration. It did sound weird on paper, but when she herself had been from a private military company and her services were exchanged for, well... someone getting payment of of it (in her defense, her mental was not there to question it at the time).] Perhaps if you were to neutralize an enemy of theirs, it would be suitable payment?

[Because hey, that's how it worked in her world, it seemed perfectly reasonable to her too! However, in the midst of imagining the scenario, she glances over and shrinks a little at the look the manager was staring their way. Lowering her voice, she carefully shifts her gaze back to Zhongli.]

Um - ahaha - I don't think he feels the same way. We should really probably get out of here soon...

Edited 2021-01-12 04:08 (UTC)

Neutralizing one's competition would be a suitable payment as any if one were to try and oust the competition. [ Zhongli is totally oblivious to the shopkeeper's gaze as he mutters to himself, arms crossing over his chest as he thinks upon the ideas that LB suggested. ] But I don't recall if such things were regarded as fair here. Back in Liyue, such trade tactics would be considered uncouth and in some ways illegal. I don't think partaking in such things would be suited for such a venture.

[ But, boy howdy that sure is a look he's getting. Zhongli will finally nod his head, aware of how long he's been here. ] Very well. Should you need someone of my expertise in the future, I would be most agreeable to working with you.

[ Said to the manager with no ounce of uncertainty or awkwardness to be found. Zhongli no... ] But you are correct, miss, perhaps it is time that we take our leave for now.

[ He's gonna make it a mission to get that cup!! Just...not when he's broke and has no outside means of getting money. ]

[ from here:

STOP BUYING SHIT YOU CAN'T AFFORD, OLD MAN! DON'T MAKE IGNIS SUZE ORMAN YOU! ]

Mmm. [ ignis murmurs agreeably; it definitely is the first of its kind that he's seen as well, although ignis is not nearly as enamoured of it as the young man beside him is, even if he seems to talk like he's older. he glances at the price tag dangling off it, and privately notes that it would be absolutely impossible to get it at this time, even if one generates an enormous amount of manna from arrival until now.

...yeah, he made some calculations. ]

The price does seem to indicate just how fine this work is. It seems they would be pleased to extract every penny for their efforts.

[ DON'T TELL HIM WHAT TO DO! YOU'RE NOT HIS MOM!!

Ignis just doesn't understand the quality and prescision of these gem cuts!! But perhaps being the lord of geo makes him a bit biased and a bit of a particular customer for such things. Either way he'll give Ignis a look of approval as he nods his head. ]

As one should, have they worked and put in the hours to create such a piece. However it is as you say, the price is most befitting of the craftsmanship. And unlike back home it appears currancy here is a bit...different than what I am used to. [ You're not used to anything, Zhongli!!! You don't know what money even is... ]

Quite a predicament, but I shall have to keep this in mind for later. [ He's not going to say it outright but he is kind of disappointed that he can't buy it right off the bat. Something worth this much definitely needs to be bought... ]

[ SAVE UP SOME MONEY THEN COME BACK TO BUY IT, LORD OF GEO!!!

ignis isn't a purveyor of fine gems the way this man seemingly is, but he does his best to appreciate the craftsmanship that went into it anyway. not that it's really difficult, it does look fine. he just doesn't quite know the intricacies of it. ]

You know a lot about gem-working.

[ ignis can sense his disappointment, but endeavours to help anyway, because he really does seem quite infatuated with this particular piece. ] Perhaps the owner can put a hold on it for you until you have sufficient manna.

[ BUT MOM HE WANTS IT NOW!!

Zhongli will hum a bit before turning his gaze fully to the man speaking with him. He might let out a small laugh at that as he shakes his head. ] Let us just say that I am...well acquainted with their properties and how to work them into such finery. I have been around long enough to know a well-cut gem from shoddy workmanship.

[ He also smashes people with rocks...being the god of geo and all, but we don't talk about that!! Though at Ignis's suggestion Zhongli will nod a hand cupping his chin as he turns back to the owner. That's an idea he can fully get behind. ] Would such a contract be sufficient? Once I have the funds I fully intend to buy it.

[ The shopkeeper will mutter something under his breath before nodding and saying 'I'll be right back with the papers', leaving the two of them alone for the time being. ]

Liyue has some of the finest gems and jewels in all of Tevyat, this place is certainly a contender as well. As brief as my wanderings have been, if all wares are similar to this...it will be almost like home in a fashion.

[ from here ]

[ He steps back to let Zhongli into the apartment. He doesn't have a lot of things besides the pre-furnished things, but he thought to get groceries to stock the kitchen. ]

Hey, no worries. I don't think this is how things work back where I'm from either. Do you want anything to drink, Mr...?

[ Right, introductions! Being a socially awkward teenager interacting with a several thousand year old deity type is hard, okay? ]

I'm Midoriya Izuku, by the way. Please, sit down. I'll help however I can.

Zhongli. And tea would suffice if you have any. Jasmine or something aromatic would be best. [ Zhongli don't be so particular!!!

He'll take a seat when offered and folded his hands together as he sits at the table. ] I thank you for your offer to help. I do hope that I'm being a burden or interrupting anything you had planned for the day.

[ It's been an interesting few days. What with the bizarre symptoms and sentiments afflicted on those who managed to clamber out of the iridescent and choking steam bubbling out of shattered terrain to their inevitable collection by their intrigued saviors.

He hasn't cried since he was fourteen. No wonder his wires were all crossed, when the urge to sob uncontrollably welled up in him like a thing about to erupt, he'd laughed hysterically until his eyes streamed. Not his finest moment, so the Harbinger doesn't dwell on the unseemly episode.

There's a new world to discover, and these people, they're so different, so interesting, so afraid. That's the undercurrent running through those who are eager to please as much as it dimples the surface of those more open with their suspicion and resentment. He loses the whole day just wandering, taking it in, chatting up the more socially inclined and curious of them and indulging their eventual torrent of questions.

That he crosses paths with Zhongli is so entirely unexpected that at first he thinks it a trick of the light. Nope. The dignified stature, the sleek and elaborate lines of his impeccable attire, his equally expensive taste....

What's also hilarious is that tripped up feeling that follows, where he's happy to see a familiar face and still chagrined about being so fooled. Not that he's exactly holding it against the consultant -- or, as he should say -- the former Archon. Just the thought of feeling owed a thrilling battle has a nice ring to it. The stuff of heroic odysseys, no? He isn't so sure his old man would agree. ]

Ha ha, your eye for luxury really doesn't know the meaning of vacation.

[ Zhongli's eye for luxury spans across the universe unfortunately for him and the shop owner. But just as he's about to try and start haggling, with whatever limited money he does have, that familiar voice will cause him to pause. He'll turn then to eye Childe with some stoic expression before he nods with a 'hm' of acknowledgment. ]

Ah, Childe, you've been sent here as well? Curious thing, this place is, and its god... [ Hm, well, that's a talk for another time he supposed. The young man looks just about as lost as Zhongli feels...but the interruption from the harbinger could not have come at a better time. ]

It would be unfair and unjust to not commend or acquire such a fine piece of artistry, no?

[ If he's holding the grand deception against Zhongli, the final contract, Childe's giving little in the way of signs, his smile is easy and growing into a lopsidedly sincere grin as he leans his shoulder into the side of an adjacent stall. Perhaps this should be his chance to escape before the consultant's haggling results in lighter pockets.

He seems content to loiter and see how this turns out. Quite like the usual, he expects. Childe had ever known Zhongli to be the very picture of consistency. Now that he knows the role he had relinquished, this trait seems almost like a witty punchline. A moment is spared to eye off the vendor, looking for the usual tension that accompanies a mention of the new god, and he saunters closer with a dismissing wave of his gloved hand. His interest in gods, in the absence of any orders by Her Majesty the Tsaritsa, is only piqued if he can test his mettle against their might. ]

The gods have good taste.

[ He leans, looking at the jeweled goblet with less an eye for their exquisite details than his company, his final judgment summed up in a shrug. The Harbinger is long past questioning why he'd want such pretty baubles. ]

"It's an insult to the craftsman if their artistry goes unappreciated" or something like that. Except.... [ He knows the score. To the vendor, he adds with a wink: ] You don't take Mora, do you?

[ it's quite rare for someone to call to him out of the blue, but he is nothing of not obedient -

in an effort to not smack the man next to him with his white wings, he closes them around himself. it hides the pretty jewels and fine clothes that had already been on his person: aspen assumes that's why the man is so intent on speaking to him about jewels and antiques. small and dainty, aspen has to get up on his tiptoes to really look at one of the items he's gesturing to, looking like a bird about to take flight. ]

There seems no end to the amount of precious stones and artistry here, such is true.

With an eye like yours - I am more surprised you are on this side of the window. Are you a purveyor of finery at home? Or perhaps a poet?

[ continued from: here. ]

--th... there was no need... though I do appreciate it your kindness, ser.

[ even without video, it's apparent that he'd be bowing his head. ]

You are right. I've been using the recording device for myself, since writing notes can be difficult. I apologize for my questions. I was - curious, as I have been subject to many a contract in my time...

In order to form bonds and relationships with one another here adapting and understanding each others hardships must go hand in hand. It's no trouble to communicate like this for myself, and so you have no need to apologize.

[ Especially when writing is hard for the other man. ]

Many contracts? To what were they in reference to?

Ah... well...

[ damn this man. he can't even see him and yet, just his voice has an uncanny power. aspen feels obligated to tell the truth, and while he doesn't like outright lying ever, he does when he feels the need to smooth things over. it's necessary for survival and to keep appearances. ]

Largely my performances... I am an actor. [ ... why does he feel somewhat guilty for omitting what he usually omits? it's not even an actual lie! despite himself, he adds - ] ... and a courtesan.

Ah. An actor. A rigorous and hard-working profession. There were many a play that I would go to see back Liyue. All of them worthy of encores.

[ But at the next mentioning he might not be so quick to answer. He also sounds a bit awkward when he does. Sorry Aspen he's just not used to talk about these things?! ] I see. That too must be hard-work, correct?

[ He doesn't have much experience with courtesans but he knows for a fact that it's not easy. ]

It is.

Think of it as acting, but you've no idea what role you are supposed to play to gain applause - and there is only one person in the audience. You must tailor your performance to their taste while you perform, reading their face and movements to understand what they wish for. It is your duty to see them satisfied. You must act natural, never too obviously seeking their favor - for your audience has chosen you.

An actor has some leniency. Some are skilled enough to draw crowds on their name alone, but the roles they play are just that. It is acknowledged that the actor is putting on a mask. There is no mask for a courtesan. You must play yourself: the most ideal form of yourself.

... ah -

I sincerely apologize. My tongue speaks before my mind thinks. I must sound ungrateful--both professions are... important to me. They, however, ask for very different things.

[ Ah. So that's it. While Zhongli's experience and knowledge of such matters are basic he knows the truth that goes into such things. The world, even Liyue, is a dark ever-evolving place. Humans have no qualms at getting what they desire as the god of contracts knows this well. He might frown on his end, voice tinged with some anger but it's not directed towards Aspen at all. ]

And which do you intend to become while here? There is no one to have to appease, you are free to do what you like after all. For now, you may rest easy knowing that at least. [ Though whether it be because of his Emerald influences or not Zhongli feels like he should watch over this one. ]

If you are ever in need of some assistance call and I will come to help you.

How kind of you... [ he actually sounds a little flustered. ] I assure you I'm not in any trouble, however. I apologize for giving off such an impression...

As for which I intend to become here... I cannot be certain. There's certainly a lot of - 'Currents', I believe? - to be had should I become a courtesan again, after all. I would love to take the stage again, but my difficulty reading and writing will be a notable obstacle for anyone who may want my talent.

[ There's an audible 'hm' from him on his end as if Zhongli is also weighing some options of his own?? ]

No need. As a protector of my people, it's only natural for me to extend the offer towards others here. But with these strange...innovations I'm sure that would be able to perform easily.

I look forward to seeing it, should you take up the stage again.

[ he pauses - and laughs. it's a gentle thing, like a blooming flower. ]

Thank you. I hope to meet - no, exceed expectations should I be able to take the stage again.

... may I ask another question, however?

The only expectations you should to exceed are the ones you set for yourself. What others think...should not factor into how you work or perceive your work.

[ But maybe that's just because he's old fashion and a god who does things for the greater good and not for show or opinions from his people. ]

Another question? You may. I will try my best to answer it.

Ah, very true.

[ well, no, that's not what aspen thinks - but he's not going to argue his point of view. aspen knows he's an anomaly and thinks of the audience perhaps a little too much. ]

What do you intend to do? All this talk of contracts - yet none of your own.

Intend to...ah. Well, contracts were a major part of my everyday life back home. I suppose now that I am...off the clock, having a need for them could be put to the wayside.

It is as other people have said. Contracts might make others feel uncomfortable. So I guess I will just have to...'wing it' as the phrase many people say here goes. Though I do value them as a means of transactions of goods and services in other ways still. Perhaps for gaining currents I will forgo them unless otherwise suggested.

[ he hums. ]

Wouldn't working mean a form of contract anyhow? I would think that someone might be able to use your help as a diplomat. There is a party here - all of us gembonded - who are unrepresented, after all.

In a sense, yes. One must sign and agree to the terms of the work involved. So it is a contract in and of itself that binds one to their job. But a diplomat? I have never taken up that type of job before.

[ Well not technically. But who knows with Genshin's unwritten character histories?! ] Would such things be required here? It seems that we are accounted for in what we must do here. But having a voice within the city as a whole could only benefit our cause.

Are we, really...? 'Accounted', perhaps...

I suppose I put a lot more stock in a voice of our choosing rather than someone we don't know or see eye-to-eye with. There is a difference, after all, between sympathy and empathy. Sympathy is merely kindness born out of imagining the pain you would go through, if you were in pain - empathy requires someone to have felt a similar pain to another, and to act kindly due to a shared experience.

I have to admit that I would prefer someone who is empathetic to my struggles, not someone simply sympathetic.

Empathetic...and you believe me to fit such a thing? [ Zhongli doesn't know how to feel about that. While he surely has a gem of his own the god of contracts isn't exactly good with mingling with humans. He's gotten better throughout the centuries but this was a tall order even for someone like himself. ]

Perhaps having an open dialogue with others who have experience with diplomacy in their own worlds could gain all of us some sort of traction with the government here. Though I do value your opinion that I might be apart of such a task. My role as an overseer for my people in Liyue indeed would be useful. But there are probably others who are far more empathetic and sympathetic to human troubles than me.

[ Zhongli has a certain detachment from humanity that also makes him a bit hit or miss when it comes to humans in general. Unlike the Archon of Ameno who values freedom and openness, therefore he engaged quite a bit with humans, Zhongli is more about rules and contracts both of which require a certain perspective of the people of his lands, and getting too close and overly fond of them would not make for a good protector. ]

[ he chuckles softly, the sound of his feathers rustling able to be heard. ]

I could say I'm the same, you realize. It's not as if I know the human struggle, I only know my own...

Yet that doesn't mean I'm not able to understand - or that I'm not willing to understand. I believe that's the most important part. Besides, there are clearly more than just humans here.

Nevertheless, it was a simple suggestion. If you do not think yourself up to the task, I certainly won't press you on it.

Hm. It is as you say. But having just one person's perspective on matters such as these would be ill-met I believe.

[ Though he can see the merit of it. ] Be that as it may, perhaps I will consult with some others regarding the matter to what sort of terms we might agree upon. It would only be beneficial toward everyone involved to have an intermediary.

I agree wholeheartedly.

I would hope to see a committee of a sort, truth be told. Perhaps something like that... it would help us all get situated, I think - to know there are others willing to stand up for us.

In a strange land, there is little better than that knowledge.

A committee would be beneficial...and what say you? Would you be willing to be a part of it as well? An idea such as this requires open-minded individuals and those who are decisive as well as have a firm conviction in their beliefs.

One cannot uphold or stand against the trials of otherworldly rules without those who wish to see them molded and changed for the greater good.

[ Aspen seems to know what he wants and seems like the type who is dependable and hardworking to boot. Having someone like him be a part of its founding would indeed yield a great result. ]

[ the reply is prompt, if surprisingly flippant: ]

Oh, I'm not smart enough for such a position. I apologize for making it seem like I am. I've just been on the right hand of a king, so I know how to sound smarter than I am when it comes to politics.

Hm? [ Zhongli doesn't see it, but he won't press the matter if the other isn't willing. ]

Is that so. You seem to have been more than that, but I will not pursue the matter if that is what you wish. Your insight into these matters will be put to use. Should you ever change your mind there will always be a seat open for you.

[ part of him hurts, but it's better that he not be put on the spot like that. what if he did something wrong? he wouldn't be able to fix it as easily as he could at home. ]

How kind. Thank you for thinking of me.

One should not belittle their own gifts regardless of what they've been made to believe. [ Hm. He certainly feels this is the case at any rate. ]

It is these individuals, those who prove themselves in the face of adversity, back home that archons bequeath unto them a vision, allowing for them to excel and obtain a power wielded by few. Though that matters little here, the idea is more or less the same, and I can tell you have the makings of such. There will be a place for you should you ever decide to join us, this I can make certain.

[ But that's about all he'll say on the matter. ] Outside of this talk I would not mind speaking again, but in person, if you would oblige me? I found our conversation to be...intriguing and perhaps we might continue to learn of each other and our worlds?

[ Zhongli that's the worst asking someone to hangout to date...but he's at least sincere in his tone. ]

If I am to assume correctly your name is Aquila? We have been speaking for some time and I have yet to introduce myself. I am Zhongli, it's been a pleasure.

[ there is quiet for a long moment.

aspen rarely feels "seen", even by his fellow courtesans. few people can read others as well as he can; that's not a demerit on their part. aspen suspects other courtesans in rougher kingdoms, having to base their survival on how well they could read their patrons, were just as good if not potentially better than him at cold reading.

this, however, almost feels uncomfortable. ]

... I, ah...

[ it's been too long since he spoke. he needs to say something. ]

You are too considerate...

M-my birth name is Aquila, but I prefer to go by Aspen nowadays. The pleasure of meeting you is all mine, ser, and thank you for the invitation, Zhongli. I would like to speak again, in person. I admit I'm not particularly good at speaking through these things.

[ Zhongli ever clueless doesn't even realize he's hit a nerve or made the poor guy uncomfortable. But these things don't exactly allow for easy communication like face-to-face would. ]

Then I will use Aspen, if that is what you'd like. But I agree. These...machinations lack that fundamental connection that one might get from speaking in person. Though it is undoubtedly easier to speak to those who are far away.

[ Zhongli is a boomer, this is fine. ] Then perhaps if you are not opposed we might meet for tea? It'll be my treat.

[ Well if he has money to do the treating. But he should...maybe?! ]

I would prefer Aspen, yes.

And tea would be lovely. There are... some that are more formal than others. Which would you rather go to?

[ aspen knows he has more than enough funds to treat, so if they go somewhere fancier, he can just pay... or at least they can split it. ]

Aspen then. [ Someone who has more than one name himself he can understand not wanting to use one over the other. ]

I am not partial towards either. Something less formal I feel would be better.

Alright, then. Something a little more casual... there is a nice shop that sells all sorts of snacks along with tea sampling platters.

Perhaps that would be a good start. It's quite lax.

[ giving recommendations on where to eat, preparing dates? aspen is much more relaxed and in his element doing this. ]

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

noctiumrp OVERFLOW POST ( TDM JANUARY 2021 )

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All that Glitters - 1

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sorry for the late reply (mandatory OT at work)

all that glitters (1)

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I thought I replied to this, wth!! I'm dumb ):

dw!!

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