[Zhongli lets out an appreciative hum, nodding in acknowledgement at Xiao.]
At ease, Conqueror of Demons. There is no need to be on ceremony here. Please, have a seat.
[Zhongli's house is not grand, but it is comfortable and full of various curios and treasures he's collected during his time here; a land where the trade focuses on barter is one wherein the God of Contracts thrives. Whether Xiao chooses to sit at the fine wooden table or the comfortable couch is his choice, and wherever he chooses to sit Zhongli will offer him a cup of tea as he joins him.]
It's been some time since we've spoken like this. How are you faring here as of late? Has there been any problems with your condition while you've been here?
There is always a reason to stand on ceremony. I know you don't think of it as of great importance. To me, however...
[ It still does. All of this is important because it's how they are tied together. This is the nature of their relationship, in part. Of course it's not something that Xiao really wants to let go. Not when Rex Lapis technically no longer is.
Xiao gets up from where he is kneeling. Then takes a seat at the table. ]
When the nightmare energy flares up, I tend to feel it. A tickling in the back of my mind that is similar to the madness.
[Zhongli knows how important such displays of fealty are to Xiao, which is why he won't push Xiao to address him so casually; merely remind him that he doesn't have to be so formal all the time. Still, once Xiao moves to take a seat, Zhongli will sit across from him. Those words make him frown and hum in contemplation as he lifts his teacup.]
Is that so..? I have been researching various herbs and objects to help banish and neutralize nightmare energy. If you'd like, I could locate some and offer them to you to try. Perhaps one of those will help ease the burden upon you.
[ That doesn't actually surprise him though. Rex Lapis sends things Xiao's way often enough. Medicine to help with the aches and pains that transpire due to the energy Xiao takes in. ]
I would try them, of course.
[ Only because Rex Lapis would be going out of his way. And Xiao knows that it is pointless to tell the Archon not to bother. He just. Doesn't understand why Rex Lapis continues to treat him like this. ]
Of course. I have perused the information present in the Archives for anything of interest, and I know someone who helps to keep them organized. I could ask if he knows more about anything that could help, and send you the appropriate remedies.
[Of course he'd be more than happy to offer more remedies for Xiao's condition. It's not that he thinks of Xiao as incapable of taking care of himself, but he feels a responsibility to help keep an eye on the young Yaksha. And something like this doesn't go out of his way, not when he works it into his schedule.]
Of course, if you have found any other things that help keep you from feeling the effects of this world's nightmare energy, I would recommend those methods as well. Whatever is most suitable for you.
I will, of course, be grateful for anything that you do find. Having options is better than being consumed and transformed.
[ He had almost been there - taken over by nightmare energy. Become something that craves violence and blood. It had been halted. Stopped by another. It's not an experience that Xiao wishes to repeat.
Instead he shifts around in his seat. Rex Lapis actually hasn't gotten to the point yet. At least it doesn't feel like he has. Yet the question about any other things that help makes him feel. A little embarrassed. Like he might already know something. ]
[Xiao would be right that he hasn't gotten to the point he's wanted to make. But he does perk up when Xiao admits that music helps him. He's mentioned that before, hasn't he? He remembers how curious it had sounded then, and knowing what he does now it all makes sense. He hums in contemplation, lifting his teacup up for a slow sip.]
Listening to music is said to be quite calming. Have you been listening to others play?
[It's an open question, but he's curious how Xiao will reply.]
[And there is the topic of what he wanted to discuss. He notices that minor fidget, but again he doesn't explicitly breach the subject. Instead, he takes a thoughtful sip before lowering his cup.]
If I may ask, what do you make of Barbatos? I cannot recall an earlier time of you and him crossing paths much in Teyvat.
[He does his best to keep his question open-ended, and tries to make it casual-sounding.]
[ That feels like somewhat of a loaded and pointed question. Xiao finally takes a drink of tea. His eyes narrow in thought as the soft chink of cup tapping against the table hits his ears.
What does he make of... ]
It is difficult to put into words. He is a feather that is caught upon the wind. Unable to do more than go with the direction it blows, landing briefly, only to be swept up again. Yet he is also the wind itself, seeing the feather in the breeze and carrying it gently to its next destination. The wind that gives the feather a new place to go and a different journey all while guiding it unseen.
[Zhongli listens carefully, observing Xiao as he does. And honestly? It's surprisingly telling. Xiao is very honest, and even in his presence he doesn't usually hide his distaste for someone (and even if he does try to, Zhongli can usually tell.) So hearing such an honest and honestly poetic description of Venti already gives him some insight as to what their relationship is like.]
[Still, he wants to hear a bit more from Xiao's end of things. So despite the small nod, he presses a little further.]
Though the God of Freedom can be cavalier and more prone to following the whims of his own desires rather than sound logic and reasoning, there is no doubting that he is dedicated to his position. The nation of wind would not last as long as it has without the guidance and protection of its archon.
[Even Zhongli has to admit that despite Venti's nonsense at times, Mondstadt has thrived under his rule.]
Still, I know he can be rather... overwhelming at times. I hope he has not been bothering you too much?
[ Xiao knows. Mondstadt is how it is because of Venti. Given recent events, Xiao wonders if Rex Lapis hadn't been influenced by that sort of freedom in this age. Perhaps that is why he is handing the reigns over to the humans and the people of Liyue. ]
He takes it as seriously as you always have yours, yes. The both of you are now in similar positions, observing your people while also being amongst them. Though I think your reasons are different.
[ Implying that he realizes that Venti is as frivolous as he is for a reason. Because there is pain there that won't let go and now? Now Venti still longs for something to fill that void. ]
As for bothering me, he does. Often. In the middle of the night or in the light of day, it doesn't matter. Though this, too, is nothing unusual. Our visits even prior to arrival here had started to become more frequent.
[That is news to him, truly. He knew sometimes Venti would visit Liyue, but he didn't know that Xiao would visit him as well. Not that he is upset by this discovery; rather, he finds it fascinating.]
[He leans forward a little, doing his best to keep a small smile from forming on his face.]
It seems that the two of you have been growing closer over time.
[ Oh. There's a look about Rex Lapis' features. That coupled with the comment - ]
My lord, excuse me for the impertinence, but... What are you trying to discover? The conversation makes it seem like you have something you want to know.
[Rather than be upset with Xiao's question, Zhongli chuckles a bit.]
Your intuition is as sharp as ever, Xiao. I'm afraid I did have a few ulterior motives when I asked to speak to you.
[He adjusts his posture in his seat, bringing his arms up onto the table and clasping them before him.]
Now I must ask you for your forgiveness for my own impertinence. I heard upon the winds that your affections have been claimed, and wished to see if that was true for myself.
You didn't need to do all of this just to ask a question.
[ Because Xiao would have answered. He would agree to come to tea for the sake of spending time with Rex Lapis. Xiao would also agree to tea even if he knows that the Archon had questions. There's nothing he would hide from Zhongli.
The mention of affections has him looking down at the cup. His grip becomes a little tighter. ]
There... Was no claiming anything. I think he's always had them, from the day I met him.
I may not, but is it out of the ordinary for friends to converge over tea? And is it not more appropriate to share big news with others over a good cup of tea?
[Maybe he also just wanted to spend some time with Xiao to check in on him. Even so, leave it to Zhongli to put together a whole ceremony for asking simple questions. He is nothing if not particular.]
[He nods slowly as he listens to Xiao's explanation, a small hum of understanding escaping him. Ever since that first meeting, huh?]
That is quite a declaration. And he returns your affections?
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
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Xiao gives the Archon a bow. Down on one knee as always. ]
Of course. If you would call, then I would come.
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At ease, Conqueror of Demons. There is no need to be on ceremony here. Please, have a seat.
[Zhongli's house is not grand, but it is comfortable and full of various curios and treasures he's collected during his time here; a land where the trade focuses on barter is one wherein the God of Contracts thrives. Whether Xiao chooses to sit at the fine wooden table or the comfortable couch is his choice, and wherever he chooses to sit Zhongli will offer him a cup of tea as he joins him.]
It's been some time since we've spoken like this. How are you faring here as of late? Has there been any problems with your condition while you've been here?
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[ It still does. All of this is important because it's how they are tied together. This is the nature of their relationship, in part. Of course it's not something that Xiao really wants to let go. Not when Rex Lapis technically no longer is.
Xiao gets up from where he is kneeling. Then takes a seat at the table. ]
When the nightmare energy flares up, I tend to feel it. A tickling in the back of my mind that is similar to the madness.
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Is that so..? I have been researching various herbs and objects to help banish and neutralize nightmare energy. If you'd like, I could locate some and offer them to you to try. Perhaps one of those will help ease the burden upon you.
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[ That doesn't actually surprise him though. Rex Lapis sends things Xiao's way often enough. Medicine to help with the aches and pains that transpire due to the energy Xiao takes in. ]
I would try them, of course.
[ Only because Rex Lapis would be going out of his way. And Xiao knows that it is pointless to tell the Archon not to bother. He just. Doesn't understand why Rex Lapis continues to treat him like this. ]
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[Of course he'd be more than happy to offer more remedies for Xiao's condition. It's not that he thinks of Xiao as incapable of taking care of himself, but he feels a responsibility to help keep an eye on the young Yaksha. And something like this doesn't go out of his way, not when he works it into his schedule.]
Of course, if you have found any other things that help keep you from feeling the effects of this world's nightmare energy, I would recommend those methods as well. Whatever is most suitable for you.
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[ He had almost been there - taken over by nightmare energy. Become something that craves violence and blood. It had been halted. Stopped by another. It's not an experience that Xiao wishes to repeat.
Instead he shifts around in his seat. Rex Lapis actually hasn't gotten to the point yet. At least it doesn't feel like he has. Yet the question about any other things that help makes him feel. A little embarrassed. Like he might already know something. ]
...Music. It helps. Often.
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Listening to music is said to be quite calming. Have you been listening to others play?
[It's an open question, but he's curious how Xiao will reply.]
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Listening to others play... Well. Funny thing about that. ]
I enjoy listening to it when others play for the festivals and gatherings. Then Barbatos plays quite often too.
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[And there is the topic of what he wanted to discuss. He notices that minor fidget, but again he doesn't explicitly breach the subject. Instead, he takes a thoughtful sip before lowering his cup.]
If I may ask, what do you make of Barbatos? I cannot recall an earlier time of you and him crossing paths much in Teyvat.
[He does his best to keep his question open-ended, and tries to make it casual-sounding.]
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[ That feels like somewhat of a loaded and pointed question. Xiao finally takes a drink of tea. His eyes narrow in thought as the soft chink of cup tapping against the table hits his ears.
What does he make of... ]
It is difficult to put into words. He is a feather that is caught upon the wind. Unable to do more than go with the direction it blows, landing briefly, only to be swept up again. Yet he is also the wind itself, seeing the feather in the breeze and carrying it gently to its next destination. The wind that gives the feather a new place to go and a different journey all while guiding it unseen.
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[Still, he wants to hear a bit more from Xiao's end of things. So despite the small nod, he presses a little further.]
Though the God of Freedom can be cavalier and more prone to following the whims of his own desires rather than sound logic and reasoning, there is no doubting that he is dedicated to his position. The nation of wind would not last as long as it has without the guidance and protection of its archon.
[Even Zhongli has to admit that despite Venti's nonsense at times, Mondstadt has thrived under his rule.]
Still, I know he can be rather... overwhelming at times. I hope he has not been bothering you too much?
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He takes it as seriously as you always have yours, yes. The both of you are now in similar positions, observing your people while also being amongst them. Though I think your reasons are different.
[ Implying that he realizes that Venti is as frivolous as he is for a reason. Because there is pain there that won't let go and now? Now Venti still longs for something to fill that void. ]
As for bothering me, he does. Often. In the middle of the night or in the light of day, it doesn't matter. Though this, too, is nothing unusual. Our visits even prior to arrival here had started to become more frequent.
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[That is news to him, truly. He knew sometimes Venti would visit Liyue, but he didn't know that Xiao would visit him as well. Not that he is upset by this discovery; rather, he finds it fascinating.]
[He leans forward a little, doing his best to keep a small smile from forming on his face.]
It seems that the two of you have been growing closer over time.
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My lord, excuse me for the impertinence, but... What are you trying to discover? The conversation makes it seem like you have something you want to know.
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Your intuition is as sharp as ever, Xiao. I'm afraid I did have a few ulterior motives when I asked to speak to you.
[He adjusts his posture in his seat, bringing his arms up onto the table and clasping them before him.]
Now I must ask you for your forgiveness for my own impertinence. I heard upon the winds that your affections have been claimed, and wished to see if that was true for myself.
[His wording is entirely intentional.]
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[ Because Xiao would have answered. He would agree to come to tea for the sake of spending time with Rex Lapis. Xiao would also agree to tea even if he knows that the Archon had questions. There's nothing he would hide from Zhongli.
The mention of affections has him looking down at the cup. His grip becomes a little tighter. ]
There... Was no claiming anything. I think he's always had them, from the day I met him.
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[Maybe he also just wanted to spend some time with Xiao to check in on him. Even so, leave it to Zhongli to put together a whole ceremony for asking simple questions. He is nothing if not particular.]
[He nods slowly as he listens to Xiao's explanation, a small hum of understanding escaping him. Ever since that first meeting, huh?]
That is quite a declaration. And he returns your affections?