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I believe I understand your situation. If I may ask, your intention to recompense him for the aid have you made that known? If it's true that he is as kind and selfless as you state then it should be clear to he would never accept anything in return. Therefore, you'll have to find a way around this. Assist him when the chance arises that he needs your help. You'll have to wait for the opportunity.

I'm satisfied with what I know of lost souls, as for my supposed pastime, you can't assume I can afford to spend all my time within those shops.

You're putting too much confidence in me when it comes to this matter, Chongyun.

I have. The first time he was willing to accept my help in exchange, in the future. He hasn't asked for anything yet. The second time, he really wouldn't take anything ... I guess I'll just have to stay vigilant. We're in the same clan, at least ... but I feel like he'd get annoyed if I hung around too much. It's a delicate balance.

Maybe not all of your time ... but they must have plenty of books here that you've never seen before. Unless I'm wrong about that?

Am I? I don't think so. You're really quite capable.

I said wait for the opportunity. Meaning it should naturally arrive, that doesn't require you to shadow the man all over town. Besides, if you decided that your time was best spent hounding someone then I'll have no choice but to go on the market for another friend. Just kidding of course. As mentioned there are in fact, plenty of books new to me here. It's almost impossible to decide where to begin. So I initially picked a few novels at random.

Not the brightest of plans. Believe me, I only found that out later. You wouldn't believe the number of books in existence with a shirtless man or seductive woman emblazoned upon their covers.

As for your observation, don't get me wrong, I am content to know you are confident in my capabilities but you do forget that I also have a few lacking qualities. Aside from that, there is an immeasurable amount of information I have to comprehend, I feel like many have a better grasp of this place called hell than I do. Thankfully I've been given a guiding hand.

I wouldn't believe? I think that's all they have in Tamamo territory ... I went to one of the bookstores here looking for a youkai compendium and could only find books like that. Every single one! It was frustrating. The one book I did find about youkai was titled "The Princess has a taste of every youkai in the kingdom." It didn't sound like the type of resource I was looking for.

The farther I went into the store, the worst the covers got. I had to leave, it was so bad. Do you think the Enma would have better books? I don't know if Shuten territory would be much better than ours.

Well ... that's normal, I think. Even with growing up with the family tomes, I can't say I feel like I know everything there is to know. Did you meet someone who knows more?

I supposed I'll be able to find the fourth volume of The Blue Mountain Wolf Pack series within that territory then? Imagine, they have all the others save for that one. How strange. Is there something different about that book in particular? So far, the rest have the same basic premise. But I'll add your recommendation to my list of books to read.

Anyway, as for serious research, you'll have better luck at the shops within the Sutoku Alliance's territories. The Department of Enma does have records and archives you can peruse as well, important events and figures are noted. There are just some things that I do have to wonder about but I haven't come to any definitive conclusions, so until I can encompass all I know I haven't thought to share any of it.

But speaking of the Shuten territory. Why not go seek Shuten Doji for yourself?

Chongyun, everyone about seems to have a better grasp of this place than I do. Well, not everyone, most everyone. Haven't you taken note that people seem familiar with some of the names of past leadership?

……… I really don’t know about that. And that wasn’t a recommendation—I didn’t even read it! I just looked at the back cover to see what it was about, and it wasn’t what I was looking for, at all. Please don’t read that if it’s just because I mentioned it.

Right. I’ll check out both of those territories. What I want is real information, not fiction, so it sounds like that will be my best chance. Tamamo territory seems to specialize in fantasy … they’re even having a young writers get together, something about seeing who can write the most “heart-pounding” short piece. There were adverts all over the bookstore. Can you imagine?

Maybe I will. Have you heard anything about where they might be?

Yes. I actually think I know the reason for that. A while back, someone on the network had posted asking about where people are from. Most answered “Japan” — I assumed it was because of this shared background. Those same people seemed to be more familiar … their culture must have had a better idea of the spirit realm than ours. Honesty, that annoyed me a bit. It isn’t like we haven’t worked hard ourselves to learn about the supernatural.

So... it's really not a recommendation? Just a book you found no interest in, nor any practical application for. Strange with the many youkai to be found, there must be some information contained within its pages. Even works of fiction require some research and thought, it's best not to dismiss that title. Therefore I will take it upon myself to thoroughly read that novel.

Now moving on — you've given me a reason to step back into those lands. How vexing it is at the thought that some specialized works may only be found within the Tamamo territory, imagine, to even host such a competition. I was so utterly unaware.

A heart-pounding tale.sigh... If only Mr. Kreideprinz was here to give life to writing. His art is most sublime, a scenery to give words life, imagine capturing emotion in a still frame. Right, so when is the deadline for this particular contest? I must know.

She. Where she might be. I only met her once, I came across her within your very own faction. The trouble with assuming she may still be found there is that placement wasn't made permanent until now. Therefore, I am uncertain of how to locate her. Oh, wait. Got it. I have an idea. There is a girl who claims to be her sworn sister. She goes by the username Berserker. Perhaps she would oblige you with a meeting?

And yes, I do recall that dialogue. Although at this point I haven't come to a certain opinion in regards to the network. Some information feels invaluable, while other times, well you've seen it. Anyway, is that truly vexing for you? I believe for them they're merely tales and myths, experiences seem limited as a whole. It's really a mirror of our own home.

Oh, Chongyun, if only I could have seen your face. Well, I can, but now the moment's passed.

It's really not a recommendation. I won't stop you from reading it, I know your collection has a ...... range..... but I don't think what research may have went into it is worth .... ugh, nevermind. I don't want to think about that book anymore.

They really like things like that around here. Promoting people doing whatever their heart desires, following their dreams ... general debauchery. They're very passionate about ... you know, whatever they decide to be passionate about. You never know what you're going to find... which is exactly why living here continues to be a challenge for me.

The deadline? I don't remember. In a few weeks.... that might be right. Don't tell me—you want to read all of the submissions?

...... Wait. What were you doing with the Shuten doji, and how did you also meet her sworn sister? Not just meet, but you even know how to contact her?

It was. My family has collected information about spirits and the spirit realm for years but we didn't have any of these names. Even if they're tales and myths, they're tales and myths we didn't know that seem to have merit. Aren't we behind them, in a sense? All the more reason that book turned out to be such a disappointment ....... ah, I really didn't want to think about that cover again.

Imagine, all the travel you have done, all the sights you have seen. For a boy your age, Chongyun, you are oddly sheltered. I'm kidding... Hehe... you're still thinking about it... That book certainly left an impression upon you.

But you know... This place is all about losing yourself — Miss Shuten Doji said as much. Not in reference to the Tamamo Clan specifically, but the whole of hell itself. She is under the impression, that I too may be ill-suited for this realm. Perhaps there may be some truth to that, well, I know for certain. Not for her ill-conceived assumption based on preference.

Chongyun, you do know that if you are having difficulties navigating through life here, then you can always call upon me. You're honest, kind, and sincere, fine traits indeed for any man. They would endear anyone to you. I can't shake my concern.

Now. I'll answer your questions. In the company of Miss Shuten Doji, I shared some sweets with her, had a short chat. That's right, she did request that I avoid making her presence known. As for Miss Ibaraki Doji. It was at a place of work, she was waiting on patrons, I just happened to be one. Now her contact information. That, well, I obtained through the network. Actually, that's how I have plenty of contacts. Although many of whom I've never met.

Completely and utterly left in the dust. I have to wonder then what it means in terms of Teyvat. Even when there are common terms among the population of youkai, they differentiate tremendously. The oni of this land, are not like those of Inazuma, not from what I recall. Although texts are all I've had... That's right... there is someone I should be speaking to about all this. It's fortunate her presence is among us, in fact, I have to wonder what her opinion is about all this.

As for that book.

Now I must see it.

You don't need to be concerned. I'll do as I've always done, just more diligently. I turn down most invitations from the clan and focus on jobs that aren't too rousing, though those are admittedly few and far. I just don't want to have any incidents here... can you imagine what might happen if my yang energy gets out of control? Actually, please don't imagine it.

I see... I guess the network is good for that. I haven't really looked all that much into it, or tried talking to people through it much. Considering what you've said, maybe I should reconsider. It would be nice to get to know some of the people I have met here on a deeper level. There are several exorcists who seem to be pretty experienced, I would really like to learn more about them and their skills.

I'll think about contacting that Ibaraki. It really wouldn't be too strange to just reach out without meeting her first?

Not only is there much we are not familiar with ... there is also very little of what we are familiar with. Not to mention the lack of those from Liyue. Our nation is so big, and yet I've barely met anyone who even knows of it. It's very strange. If you plan to investigate this more, I would like to assist you. We should go together.

Xingqiu... please... just, forget the book. It's better off forgotten.

Why, goodness Chongyun, you are so full of requests tonight. First, you implore me to show restraint in my concern. Impossible, really, when you are my most cherished and beloved friend, I will to great lengths in showing care. And next, you ask that I curve imagination. How dreadfully dull life would turn, aside from books, there are no other escapes. Well, that's not entirely true. Of course, that may only mean a foray beyond the boundaries of this city

There you go, see, if a tool has been handed to every single one of us that may facilitate life then is there any point in ignoring its usefulness? Rather, you should at least consider it this way, make good use of your time here. If you wish to establish friendships, and exchange skills, tips, now would be the time.

As for contacting people through the use of a phone first. Well. I don't know about it being strange. Of course, if that is your way of implying you find me odd, you can always be more direct.

And about that, well, I'll admit I'd feel incredibly self-conscious if you were present for that meeting. But if you truly wish to accompany me in speaking and exchanging words with that shrine lady, then I'll gladly have your company.

Another impossible request. Surely you must know that the only way that book won't be read is if every single copy is sold out, and the work goes out of print.

I'm not saying you can't read any books ...... I know you'll read anything and everything. But some of the books in the stores around Tamamo territory are very .... well, I can't read them. I'm going to leave it there. Instead — you truly want to venture outside the city? I will do so with you.

That's not what I'm trying to imply. You know her already, but I am a complete stranger. To just use the phone out of the blue ... I can definitely see the benefits, but it seems forward with someone I've not talked to before. I'll still consider it though.

If you're okay with it, I am more than happy to keep you company. I can wait for you somewhere else during though, if that's better.

Xinqiu .... you know what I mean.

Hm. I see so you are finding difficulty in perusing through those novels. I have an idea, instead of you reading through them, how about if I read them out loud to you. I think it's the perfect solution, I would get a chance to know those tales and so would you~

Oh, I see you're inviting yourself to one of my excursions. Well, I won't turn your company away in light of the need for exploration. In fact, it's not really a secret but I think you should know that I enjoy having you by my side.

That's not what you're implying? Then answer me this Chongyun, would you think a person completely strange, an odd eccentric to contact people they have never personally exchanged words with?

Well, it would be simpler if I revealed a few things that I haven't made known to you. It's just thinking about it, it's a little embarrassing for me to admit.

You keep mentioning it, only driving me further to seek it out of curiosity.

.... How about a compromise? There's supposed to be storyteller at one of the book stores in Tamamo territory next week. How about we go to that together? The already said the story was just based on history, so it should be something we both like.

And I enjoy having you by mine. As you've said before, there's much we don't know—how else will we find what's out there unless we go hunt it down? Maybe it'll give us a clearer understanding of this Hell, too. I wouldn't mind getting some training in either.

I don't know about an odd eccentric... or anything like that. I guess it's just me.

... If it's embarrassing, you don't have to tell me. If you want to I'm happy to listen, though. Either is fine.

We're done with the book. Done.

[ A compromise? And reading what the offer entails Xingqiu can't help wondering if Chongyun had not delved further to obtain more details. A historical tale, that's all, it's fairly vague. Anything could be considered for recorded documentation, it was all dependent on the values of the narrator. And this is taking place in the Tamamo Territory — poor dear Chongyun. A shake of his head follows but he answers immediately. ]

Very well. Since you insist. I won't make further references to that book. As you said. We're done with it. Finished. Complete. You'll have to keep your end of this bargain, however, otherwise... some unmentionable thing may resurface.

That's right. It's not something we can neglect despite having found ourselves here. So how about this, a match, between the two of us. Just a short little spar. Something between friends, besides, I'm always interested in knowing how much you've progressed since you train so diligently.

No. Or maybe? We can always go ahead and ask the general population for their opinion. That seems popular, I mean, as a manner of communicating with strangers.

You're my closest friend, my words are honest when I regard you as my dearest. It's something of a secret, although I suppose that I was obliged to reveal it to the traveler. In person. Meet me in person and then I'll tell you. I think it is something that should be said in your presence.

It's been a while since I've gone to listen to a story. I'm not sure if the storyteller will be as talented as Tea Master Liu, but it will still be a nice way to send an afternoon.

Ah—yes, let's. We will need to fight a good place to do this. Early morning would be best, so there won't be many people around. Our vital energies will be at their peak, too. I don't want to get sloppy while we're here. Our martial skills are more important than ever... I never did find my sword anywhere.

That's true... you're right. The clan leaders also seem to use this method frequently. Maybe I really am overthinking it.

Now I'm curious. Very well, I'll see you in person soon and we can discuss further. Where would you like to meet?

How about this, if that storyteller disappoints then I'll narrate some tales for you. I'll even go ahead and brew something you favor. Cooled of course, for your enjoyment.

Most unfortunate, but I wouldn't doubt there are ways to obtain weapons or other tools here. It only seems logical that there would be armaments to be found. For now, only skill, so even if it is only a friendly match you can't hold back. But you already know that. Then let's discuss a time and date when we meet.

And I suppose I may as well make a confession. I've directly contacted people I have never exchanged words in person. There you go. So that route isn't solely taken by clan leaders. It's effective.

Now let me take a breath, I really am feeling self-conscious. So then. Tonight. Tonight will do.

Alright. So, let's discuss the rest of what we need to talk about tonight.

I'll see you soon.

( ooc: end. just kidding. it never ends because i want them to have that talk ♥ )

[ Obviously, they're set to meet at Xingqiu's place, a studio flat because he has better things to spend his hard-earned money on than some luxurious apartment, wasteful pretentiousness is unnecessary gaudy when here managing his finances has become all the more important. Yes, he drop money on a second phone, that he saw as an investment. AS for the flat, the kitchen and bathroom are tidy enough, but the rest might need someone to give care. The few books he has obtained are neatly set against a wall. But there are articles of clothes on the single armchair, his bed is unmade, and his table seems more like a place for projects than for eating any meals.

It's the tabletop that has it worst. There are books there too, one with a bookmark at the very center. There are also some notebooks, some new, others clearly are in use. A scroll with beautiful calligraphy is unrolled to the point it is hanging off the table, then there is Xingqiu's latest project: an attempt to produce a map of the city for himself.

When he hears the knock, the door is immediately opened for his friend. Left behind is his usual attire, in a shirt that clearly indicates he knows what he is up to and he won't go without wearing shorts, is Xingqiu, very casual of him. ]

Well, you're finally here. Tea? Biscuits? A poptart?

[ He steps aside to welcome Chongyun inside. ]

[ Very casual (and cute) indeed. Chongyun is the same as ever, still stubbornly wearing his thaumaturge set of white and blue cotton. He has considered expanding his wardrobe since it looks like their stay in Hell isn't going to be a short one ... something he thinks when he looks at his friend's getup. What the heck is that shirt? ]

Anything is fine. [ he steps inside, slipping off his shoes and leaving them by the door, ] Tea would be nice, actually.

[ Xingqiu knows exactly how he takes it, so Chongyun doesn't say anything else. Curious, he wanders into his friend's space, looking around. The sight of something so familiar—it makes the corners of his mouth turn up slightly. Xingqiu chaos will always be Xingqiu chaos, no matter where they are.

He can't keep looking at that unmade bed, though. Without saying anything, Chongyun goes over to make it. It's about the feng shui of the room! The feng shui! It just feels better when the bed is nice and neat, especially since it's a studio. And he might organize some of these books and scrolls, if he has an extra minute ... it can't hurt, right...?

Making the bed is swift work, and Chongyun is quick to turn his attention to the table. ]

A map?

[ Once Chongyun is inside, the door is closed and then locked.

At the mention that anything would due, his eyes light with a sly gleam, a mild smile grows mischievous but he would never do anything so obvious as to offer Chongyun something to get a reaction out of him in this manner. However, that impish look remains even as he patters off on bare feet to the small section that is his kitchen. Tea, yes, tea that's expected and he knows Chongyun's preference all too well. Brewing the drink first, water had already been set to boil before his friend's arrival in preparation.

He just had to steep the tea leaves, he would set aside the teapot to allow time for just that before turning his attention back towards his friend. He crosses his arm as he watches the tidying of his bed. Really, it's unnecessary given how late it is, he would likely make a mess of it again soon.

Following his friend's line of sight, gazing at the stacks of books and scrolls, he knows Chongyun would never comprehend the methodology behind the chaos. Despite what seems like a disorganized mess, there is nothing lost within these walls. ]

An attempt to create one...

[ Lines are straight, buildings, structures are scaled to size. Roads and other pathways are marked. The trouble as always is the letters denoting what each place is. His handwriting continues to be an issue. It's impossible for him to be satisfied with what he has created for that reason. ]

But this map is not why I asked you to come.

[ It may not be why Xingqiu has invited him over, but Chongyun stops to look at it anyway. He had always thought that his friend was talented—handwriting aside—and the detailed map rolled out onto the table only reassures him of that notion. It’s well made. Labelled. Neat. He may have chided Xingqiu a bit for seeming less than interested in Sutoku’s happenings, but he knows that the other boy is always diligent in his way. Like with this. He obviously has put a lot of work into it.

Chongyun’s fingertip lightly brushes over the page. Barely a touch at all, really, because he doesn’t want to accidentally smudge Xingqiu’s work. ]

I know, but … this is very good.

[ Leaving the chaotic mess of Xingqiu’s books alone, Chongyun sits down in front of the table. There isn’t much room for tea or snacks this way, but it’s not like he came for either of those things. ]

There was something you wanted to tell me, right?

[ He had wondered what it might be, but the longer he went on, the more wild his assumptions became. It was better to not think that much about it, in the end. ]

[ It’s a painstakingly slow progress, which explains why the map has yet to be completed. A boy whose penmanship is lacking wouldn’t be an artist either but it is pride that drives him to seek the path of perfection, that is why he once scribed upon a cover a signature in beautiful calligraphy hailed by many living in a far off archipelago for its artistry. Of course, that took him a whole night but he was content with the results even if exhausted the following day.

Soon at Chongyun’s side, he watches fingers barely ghost over the lines of his work almost in reverence. Foreign to him, impulsivity takes hold and it leads him to reach out for his friend’s hand, holding it securely as he looks down at his own work as if watching the view from a rooftop. ]

Thank you. I just thought it may be useful…

[ Returning to the main topic of conversation which brought about this reunion, he nods. Despite running over several scenarios of how to open this conversation up he realizes he hasn’t settled on a choice. Slowly he releases his hold, the one where he began to lace their fingers together and moves back to the kitchen to finish preparing that tea. ]

It’s not often you visit the Wanwen Bookhouse is it? So then… well just on the off chance you may have heard of it but do you know of a novel titled A Legend of Sword?

[ His words are delivered slowly, almost hesitantly, the result of the embarrassment he spoke of earlier. ]

[ Their hands touch. Ten fingers intertwine, bringing their palms flush. Chongyun's attention had been largely on the map before, but now it falls to the way his friend holds his hand instead. A firm hold—not harsh, like trying to keep the exorcist from smudging his map, but ... comfortable. Secure.

When Xingqiu returns to the kitchen to see about the tea, Chongyun stares at the hand that was just held. It's warm, and the tingle of the other boy's touch still remains. Again, that stuffy feeling—the same one that cottoned in his chest during the festival—makes him feel ... strange. It's nothing he can describe well, he doesn't have the words and he can't think of them right now either, only that it's like missing a step on the stairs. A rush that puts him off-kilter.

He drops his hand before Xingqiu can catch him staring at it like a weirdo. Newly hidden on his lap, his fingers curl into his palm. ]

Hm? [ he's still a little distracted when Xingqiu talks again, ] No, I haven't heard of it.

[ It isn't the first time his friend has thrown a book title his way without context, so Chongyun doesn't think all that much of this one in particular. It's true, he doesn't often visit Wanwen bookhouse, and when he does, it's usually to find historical texts on the supernatural. ]

Why?

[ With the tea steeped, poured into a cup for Chongyun he takes a pause to contemplate whether or not to add sugar to the drink. Some people seemed to favor that route, others even went as far as to combine the drink with milk, but ultimately he sticks to what is known. All that's left is to cool the beverage, which is quickly done by grabbing a few ice cubes. Yes, it would water down the flavor but he is being merciful. The cup is held before his lips, despite the ice floating on the surface, he blows a cooling breath before presenting the tea to Chongyun. ]

Give it a moment, I don't believe it's completely cooled.

[ With Chongyun's tea delivered he goes to grab the teapot and a second cup for himself, this time when he returns he settles on a partially empty chair which means he is sitting on a few articles of clothing. Don't judge him! ]

Anyway, I'm not surprised you've heard nothing of it, aside from the genre not being one you favor, well, it's not particularly popular in Liyue. Actually, I would say that it was a complete failure there. [ A short titter follows, nervous before he falls quiet and opts to pour himself some tea before taking a sip. ]

You know, that initial manuscript was rejected several times over, by several publishers so I went ahead and printed a few copies myself.

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