July Event Log

[kaisoumods]

July Event
Dominant Element: Water
Waning Element: Fire

Full Moon: July 2nd - July 4th

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July comes to Kaisou and brings with two things: heat and rain, leaving the city a humid mess. Time to get dehumidifiers and make sure your AC works, because otherwise, you might just end up melting. The summer storms seem heavier and more frequent this year, with one occurring every couple days and lasting for several hours. All this rain is enough to flood basements and low areas. Wonderful.

Beat the Heat With the Power of Anime

Despite the miserable weather, it's still summertime in the city, so that means the city is alive with activity. With Kaisou being in America, you can fully expect the fourth of July celebrations to be in full swing during the first week of the month. Attend a barbeque or watch the firework show at the beach, which thankfully isn't rained out.

However if you want to go a little more nerd in your summertime celebrations - KaiCon, Kaisou's local anime con, is back in town! Normally, this would have been held in June, but thanks to the tornado last month, it got postponed. Held the week of July 16th, the convention brings in a ton of tourists both in and out of cosplay. There's lot of to do at the convention, from shopping for merchandise, trying Japanese foods, attending panels, entering cosplay competitions, and sitting in a ballpit. For once, those app users with odd changes or body parts won't stand out so badly!

Finally, if you're looking for a more educational way to pass the time, the Kaisou history museum is holding a special exhibit about artifacts from the ancient world. Throughout the exhibit are a collection of artifacts from the Ancient Greek era that are in remarkable condition. In fact, those with archeological training might find it a bit too remarkable, finding pieces in such a pristine condition. Those with a keen magical sense will detect energy signatures indicative of the Spirit Realm. There's even a few objects that hold curses from the Greek pantheon that could be triggered in the wrong hands.

Crystal Rain

It's never fun to be caught in a summer microburst. Even under normal circumstances, they will drench you within a minute and you can kiss any electronic device that hasn't been waterproofed goodbye. And unfortunately, thanks to the damage done to the Spirit Vein, these summertime annoyances have only gotten worse. While regular rain will still act normally, should you get caught in a microburst, you will find your limbs begin to stiffen as crystals begin to form on your skin. The longer you stay out in the crystal-inducing rain, the worse the effect will get and the harder you will find it to move around. Be careful not to let it get so bad that you're stuck as a crystal statue for a while.

Fortunately, the effects seem to be temporary. Once you get to a dry place and dry yourself off properly, the crystals will fall off and your limbs will return to their normal mobility range. While the plant life (which is still growing out of control) doesn't seem to be affected by the rain, animals caught in the microbursts do seem to be. It wouldn't be a bad idea to help out your fellow creature and help dry the crystals off their furs or feathers. As for the normal people, they don't seem to notice the actual crystalizing effect and will just blame any mobility issues on their muscles and bones not handling this rainy season well. Sure Jan.

Mysterious Fathoms Below

Blue Fish Lake has always been a decent sized lake. It's large enough to be a good place to take a take a boat onto it and spend the day fishing the healthy lake fish population. That said, it's not that big. You could always see the other side from the shore, and it's depth couldn't be more than thirty or so feet. A good sized lake, sure, but hardly one that's going to be in any record books anytime soon.

On the night of July 6th, there is an extremely heavy rain storm - one that stands out from the other storms throughout the month. Torrential rains and strong wind blast the city. Make sure not to drive through any standing water, as you might end up with your car getting submerged in water.The next morning, after the storm has cleared and people can begin to (relatively) dry off, there will be reports that not only has Blue Fish Lake flooded, but it's gotten much deeper from the rain. Thousands of feet deeper.

While the normal people in the city don't question why Blue Fish Lake is now as deep as the ocean, it's pretty easy for app users to conclude that there's no way a summer rain storm could cause Blue Fish Lake to get that much deeper. And Zodiac seems to agree, as on July 7th they send out a message over the Libra app.

ALERT: SPIRIT REALM GATE DETECTED IN BLUE FISH LAKE.
Element Classification: Water
Danger Level: High
Designation: Atlantis
Zodiac has detected a Spirit Gate within Blue Fish Lake. Early reports indicate that this may be the lost city of Atlantis and might be worth investigating. Please go to the Zodiac offices for more information.

Should you head to the Zodiac office, there's a sense of excitement in the air. After all, the lost city of Atlantis isn't something you happen upon every day. The (fuzzy) Professor is there, and he's more than happy to tell you what he knows about Atlantis: It was a country that the philosopher Plato wrote of, one that fell into the ocean thanks to its hubris. Since then, there's been loads of people throughout history who have attempted to locate where the lost city was at, though usually with no success. A Zodiac intern will chime in to add that even many paranormal-based researches suspected it to be nothing more than a fanciful story, what with how long it had been since it'd been supposedly sighted. So the chance to confirm that Atlantis really does exist? It truly is a once in a life time opportunity.

That said, there is the issue of how to get to that realm, with it being so deeply underwater. In order to pull it off, Zodiac has decided to pull some strings and use what resources they can afford. They've been able to get in contact with the Bermuda Brotherhood - a paranormal group that specializes in researching and safeguarding the Bermuda Triangle - and convinced them to loan Zodiac a submarine and crew. Black Order and POKEGO members may have heard of the Bermuda Brotherhood before. They have a reputation for being an ornery group that is extremely territorial about the Bermuda Triangle and, convinced it's the crown jewel of supernatural hotspots. Not bad people by any stretch, but could probably stand to go to shore and touch some grass. Still, eccentricities aside, there's no doubt they're experts on deep sea diving and you'll be in good hands.

Once you're done preparing, it's time to head off. Sitting in Blue Fish Lake is an old-timey-looking submarine. It wouldn't be far out of place in a Jules Verne novel. Ancient as it looks, this is everyone's ticket through the spirit gate, which is submerged under the lake. The geese are, naturally, furious about this, and can be seen swimming around it and occasionally pecking ineffectively at both it and the crew sent by Zodiac to man the damn thing. The sub is big enough to hold a decent number of people, and once everyone's aboard (after dodging any of the angry geese nearby) the sub descends under the waters of the lake.

The sub goes deeper and deeper, much deeper than any lake should be able to go. Seaweed starts to appear, jutting out through rocky outcrops as schools of fish hurry out of the submarine's wake. It's clear you are definitely no longer in a lake, but under the ocean depths. Deeper and deeper you go, as light fades from dappled rays to almost nothing. Eventually, the only lights around are those from the submarine itself, lighting the way down.

At some point in the journey a deep, guttural, pulsating call can be heard in the darkness. For a moment, you could be forgiven for thinking a whale is making the noise, but as it gets closer and closer, it's clear that this is something completely different. The lights of the sub sometimes catch a shadow on a rocky crag, before it vanishes once again. Eventually, though, whatever is stalking you makes an attack on the sub. The craft is suddenly and violently jarred to one side as something very large slams against it. If characters aren't holding onto something, they're going to hit the deck HARD. The crew starts panicking, rushing about trying to assess the damage as the sub is slammed into again, and at this point, the submarine is definitely taking on water. In a desperate attempt to save everyone, the captain orders the submarine through a tunnel in the rocks the lights have just glanced off. Thankfully, this works, and as the submarine moves into the tunnel, a current picks up the downed craft and pushes it through to the other side, where it breaks the surface of the water into a cavern. The submarine is seriously damaged, and the captain states it will take time to fix it. However, the cave does seem to have a way out, and it might well be worth exploring that while no one can go anywhere else.

The Lost City of Atlantis

Following the exit to the cave, you will find yourself entering a beautiful city. Ancient temples rise to the sky, with huge columns of stone decorating the entrances. It looks almost ancient Greek in origin, but not quite. Stranger still is that even though this looks like a city from ancient times, the people seem to enjoy many modern conveniences, magically powered by the crystals worn around their necks. The city runs in a circle, living and thriving. There are people here, who will happily welcome you to Atlantis- the first explorers that they have seen in...well, forever! If you squint and look to the very borders of the city, you can see stone monoliths holding up some invisible barrier. The ocean shifts behind it; fish and seaweed abound in an undersea world full of life. The people are excited to show you their city, though they come across as a very pious lot. If you comment on the city's beauty or vibrance, they downplay it, almost fearfully. If that strange behavior is brought up to them, they quietly point out that their pride and avarice is what angered the Gods enough to sink their city. They do not intend to incur the wrath of the Gods again.

Luckily, there is plenty for you to do in the city. You can eat almost wholly seafood-based meals from people only too happy to open their meals or food stalls to those explorers looking for a bite to eat. If you really want, you can go and get yourself a tattoo with glow-in-the-dark ink. If you request a tat of anything that existed after 1000 B.C, though, you will likely get very confused looks. Better stick to fish or Atlantean symbols. You can also get involved in crafting- though as might be expected, a lot of the crafts involve making fish spears or nets. Speaking of, natives will be glad to take you out on boats to the tranquil waters that surround the city, where there's plentiful fish and sea life to catch- you might even be able to catch your own meal! The natives will be very nervous about getting TOO close to the barrier, though, muttering that things have been unsettled with that as of late.

For the more academically minded, you can investigate the crystals all the Atlanteans wear around their necks. They are more than happy to hand one over to you to check out, explaining that the crystals were a gift from the Gods and were what allowed them to be such a thriving utopia in "the old days". For those with either an ability to sense or otherwise investigate the crystals, you will find them to be a perfect blend of magic and an unknown, almost alien technology. You will find that the crystals power everything - from lights, to starting fires, to boat engines, to even acting as a magic translator (just in case you were wondering how they speak English). You can also use them to power stone, fish-shaped vehicles, which you can ride somewhat like a motorcycle. These fly into the air, giving you a chance to view the city from above.

Unfortunately those hoping to find reading material will be out of luck. While the most important events are recorded through murals and stone tablets, scholars will explain that the humidity from being under the ocean makes preserving paper basically impossible. As such, most of their stories are pass down through the oral tradition, with storytellers and theater performers being treated with reverence. You'll be welcome to attend any storytellers performance if you wish to hear about tales of Atlantean history. If you're more interested in the arts, Atlantean theater offers a wide variety of plays- so long as you don't mind all of them being morality plays about the virtues of being pious.

Meanwhile, members of the Black Order who are keeping a watchful eye will notice that somehow they acquired an extra person that wasn't on the submarine. As it turns out, a curator from Kaisou Museum has been using one of the magic stripper poles from the Goodwill to go into different Spirit Realms and grab up relics to put into the museum. The Ancient Greek relics in his exhibit now? Were lifted from the tear Ash was dragged through last month. The curator seems to have no regard for the actual safety or origin of the items, rather just grabbing whatever he thinks would attract visitors. The Black Order will need to figure out how to deal with this man, and return any unsafe items back to the Spirit Realm where they belong.

The Price of Hubris

Once you have enjoyed the city and gotten to know the people well enough, they will lead you to the tribal council, leaders of the city who watch over all that occurs within. They explain that there have been breaks happening in the barrier which blocks Atlantis from the ocean- that leaks have been appearing, and they are worried if this continues, the city will once again sink, and this time the Gods will not protect them.

Finally, with the blessing of the elders, some of the native Atlanteans will take you to the borders of the city. You can see for yourself small cracks in the barrier, water leaking through them. Some have been hastily patched with pitch or mortar, but it's clear this will not hold forever. The people are frightened - they've been so careful, so pious. They've been sure to never let their pride overtake them again, and yet it feels like the Gods are threatening to finish the job. They will allow you to explore, explaining there are some ancient parts of the city they will not go near as they are blessed ground to Atlanteans, but perhaps outsiders would be able to go there.

The "blessed ground" ends up being an ancient cave, untouched for millennia. Ancient texts are stored here, as are cave paintings, made with the same glow-in-the-dark ink that is used for tattoos these days. While you look through the cave, it's clear that things were put here to be hidden away; to avoid, like a dirty secret. Eventually, once you put enough clues together, you learn that "the Gods" did not sink Atlantis, nor did they give the Atlanteans the crystals that they're so proud of. The Crystals were plundered from the Spirit Realm by the Atlanteans themselves. Taken and crafted for their own use, to power their cities and give them an upper hand against the rest of the world. Unfortunately, the Spirit Realm is temperamental and prone to taking back what belongs to it. When it reached out to reclaim the crystals, it took the whole city with it, pulling it into the realm the crystals originated from. It was the ancient Atlanteans' own magictech that saved them, the barriers they'd built against potential invaders sealing them safely from the oceanic Spirit Gate that swallowed them whole.

Battle with Leviathan

As you exit the cave with all this newfound knowledge, the barrier is SHAKEN by another shockwave. This time, however, you're close enough to see what's caused it. This is no act of the Gods either. A huge sea serpent is slamming against the barrier, full of snarling, frothing rage. Get close to the city and the Atlanteans will offer a terrified explanation- that is the Leviathan, a sea monster which has haunted their city since it "sank". You realize quickly this is what attacked your sub when you were coming to the city in the first place. The Atlanteans say it was only a threat to anyone trying to leave the city previously, making it impossible to explore outside their literal bubble. It's never attacked them directly like this before, and they don't understand the change in behavior.

Regardless of what can be causing the increased aggression, this needs to be dealt with, or Atlantis really will be sunk beneath the waves. The Atlanteans luckily do have a means to breathe underwater- thanks to the crystals, they have invented a breathing mask to allow you to breathe underwater for about an hour at a time. They could never use it to truly escape the city thanks to the Leviathan's presence, and they were too fearful of it to actually attempt to fight it. But now you're all here, and maybe things can be different! Maybe you can be rid of the creature for good!

If you head to the cave where you originally entered, you will find the captain still working on the sub. He explains it's not ready yet- but you have other fish to fry. Literally. Using the flying fish vehicles, you drive into the water and use the apparatus to follow the tunnel out into the open ocean again, where the Leviathan is waiting for you. You will have to be able to swim and fight at the same time, and if you're a fire user ... well, good luck. The creature puts up one hell of a fight - it's fast and it's HUGE. Easily fifty feet in length. It can churn the water around it, sending out blasts of the stuff like aquatic projectiles. It will not be an easy battle at all. During the fight, you might notice it stop to swallow a discarded crystal- it seems this is what the creature feeds on, which would also explain the attacks on the city itself. Either way, it will give no ground, and you will have to work together to dispatch it for good.

Aftermath

Once the waters have settled and the Leviathan has been defeated, the barriers will slowly begin to show signs of repair. The Atlantean elders are surprised by the revelations of what actually caused their downfall, and they will request discretion as they sort out how to go about telling their people (after all, news on this scale could completely undo their way of life). Should you ignore their request and tell the population on your own, you can expect Atlantis to experience several instances of unrest throughout the month.

Either way, the people of Atlantis will be thankful for your help. The elders will grant you permission to keep your own power crystals, should you wish. Which leaves characters with a choice. A magic energy source like this could easily give you the power you need to build your own version of the Libra app, and even break free from relying on Zodiac or any other faction. However, if not handled carefully... these could drag all of Kaisou into the Spirit Realm, just like Atlantis.

It's not an easy decision to make, so characters should probably talk it over with one another before deciding.

No matter what you decide, the submarine will be repaired and ready to go within a few days. Once everyone returns to the surface, with the waters now safer, the city of Atlantis will be available to visit for the rest of the month before it disappears back into the dark oceans of the Spirit Realm.

OOC Notes

The dominant element this month is Water! Anyone with an affinity to the water element will find themselves boosted throughout the month. This could mean a boost to their power, having more energy, feeling more inspired with creativity, having better luck on different attempts -- the boost can manifest in all sorts of different ways. By contrast, anyone with an affinity for Fire will be experiencing the opposite. Perhaps their powers will be weaker, they have less energy, they're having a creative block or general worse luck - again it can manifest in all sorts of way and players are free to play with this mechanic as they'd like.

NOTE REGARDING THE POWER SOURCE: Whether characters decide to take the Atlanteans offer on the power source will have lasting consequences in the game, as such this will be put up to a vote among players that'll be open until July 12th. The vote can be found over here.

The original OOC plotting post for this event can be found here. Another Zodiac Post will be going up July 15th to serve as an intro post for new characters and allow characters to react to developments over the network.

Comments

[venti_late]

[When Zhongli comes back, Venti can't help teasing him.]

Aw, not your clothes? A pity. [He'll take the clothes and the robe, though.] I'll meet you out on the balcony after I've changed.

[The bard heads over to the bathroom, shutting the door gently behind him. He doesn't look into the mirror as he changes into dry clothes, though he has three buttons undone on the shirt and he barely does the robe up. It's not even to make Zhongli thirsty at this point. Venti just doesn't do formal unless he absolutely has to. He's forever a free spirit. However... before the bard leaves, he undoes his braids and slips a hairtie around each wrist. Venti's not a fan of the feeling of wet hair being tied up.

He exits the bathroom and pads over to the balcony to take his usual seat. His arms are crossed and his eyes are on a point in the sky in front of him. It seems Venti's thinking about something deeply, but it's not happy whatever it is.]

[lapislazily]

They wouldn't stay on you, which would defeat the purpose of giving you clothes in the first place. [He says this with not a single lick of awareness that maybe Venti intends for that to happen. At any rate, he'll go and make some tea while Venti's changing.

He sets a tray down on the bistro table when he joins his friend outside. There are fresh sliced apples, some scones, and a fragrant black tea to go with. Not his usual, but... he's also brought sugar and cream.]

I was waiting to bring this out for a special occasion. Since you have come to visit me, I believe that counts.

[If Venti watches, he may recognize what Zhongli is doing as soon as he plucks Kluntje rock sugar out of a porcelain dish and sets it at the bottom of the cup. Next comes the tea, which he pours very carefully over the sugar, not spilling a single drop. And last comes the cream, which he carefully eases at the edge of Venti's cup, the tiny convection forming the perfect cloudy formations one would expect from East Frisian tea. Stirring is, of course, verboten.

Zhongli settles back down in his chair and tries not to let his eyes linger on how much skin is showing over there.]

Since you brought home to me, I thought it was only fair to bring a little piece of home back to you.

[He hesitates for a moment, and then ventures gently:]

Something has upset you greatly. While you have no obligation to tell me anything... it may ease your heart to have someone listen.

[venti_late]

Hehe, would it be because of the clothes being loose or because of you? [Venti can't help it. The comment is deserved, even if he doesn't expect Zhongli to answer him one way or another.

He looks back at his friend when he brings in the tray. The bard blinks and tilts his head slightly to the side. What on earth has Zhongli been saving for him?

Oh, but his eyes widen as he immediately recognizes what the brunet is doing. It's been so long since he's had a German tea ceremony. He can't even remember the last time he's done that for himself, let alone someone else doing it for him. That Zhongli has gone through all of this effort for him... a bit of life and light comes back to his eyes and smile.]

Hehe, I'd say you very successfully did that, then! I can't remember the last time I've had tea prepared like this.

[Venti takes an apple slice and nibbles on it as he waits for the tea to cool a little more. That Zhongli can recognize his mood doesn't surprise him in the slightest. Still, he's quiet for a few beats as he thinks it over. Stars, how does he even begin?

Perhaps with what happened this morning. That's... somehow easier.]

I... [Venti sighs as he takes his cup and sips on his drink.] ...I'm not... human anymore. Which sounds really dramatic, but it's hard to describe the feeling exactly. I just... [He struggles for a moment before just mentally going, 'fuck it.'] I'm an archon again. And an elemental spirit. I have marks on my body again, and I woke up as what Barbatos used to look like. As in, his original form.

[lapislazily]

[Zhongli is going to pretend he didn't hear that. And true to form he doesn't bring it up even when they're at the table. More important is bringing Venti's smile back, and making him comfortable enough that he can trust an old friend with his troubles.]

East Frisian tea is curious and bracing. I like the spirit of it.

[He likes his tea to be strong enough to knock out a horse, but more elegantly, so of course Zhongli would take to it. The rock sugar and the cream part is so unnecessary but he can't help liking the delicate ceremony anyway. It feels nice to perform.]

... Ah.

[So his powers have returned. Zhongli thought this was likely to happen. He himself feels different, but considering he hasn't been able to access all of his abilities as a god, he thinks he must be limited somehow...]

You woke up as—

[Is there even a good way to describe it? Zhongli holds up his hand with his thumb and fingers forming a long 'c' shape, the universal gesture of 'tiny'.]

That... must have been quite the shock. I know you and Barbatos still have some things to resolve.

[He considers, and then he pulls off his gloves and rolls his sleeves back a bit. Having taken off his coat at the door, it's a lot easier to do. Sure enough, glowing gold against his tan skin are the same leylines he had in a past life. They follow the lines of his veins on the outside and inside of his arm.]

... You aren't alone in this, though you may be the only one of us with proper divine power at the moment. I can sense it.

[venti_late]

[Venti giggles at that.]

Of course you do. For as refined as you look, you enjoy the tea of the workforce.

[Which makes sense when Zhongli had been a farmer, once upon a time. Still, he appreciates the performance of this ceremony.

The bard sits back in his chair with his arms crossed more tightly over his chest. As much as Venti wants to sit there and pretend he's fine, totally unbothered by anything... this is Zhongli. His best friend. He doesn't want to hide his feelings from him, especially when the man can read him so well.

The brunet's gesture of him waking up as tiny gets a short, humorless laugh from him. He doesn't seem like he meant to do that, but it's a natural defense.]

Yeah, I woke up as a little wisp. And when I... remade my body, it had some new markings on it.

[Venti watches his friend take off his glove and roll up his sleeve. He takes Zhongli's hand in both of his as he inspects the golden lines that glow on his skin. The black-haired man brushes his fingers gently over one line before releasing his hand. His smile is dry.]

How unfortunate that my lines require me to fully strip myself. As much as I'd love to give you a show, the mood definitely isn't right for that.

[It's almost a pity. He plays with the ends of his hair as he thinks. Clearly, it's not just being an archon that has him in this emotional state, and he's debating whether or not to say it. That fear of Zhongli's reaction is still there, but... it's also hurting him a bit too much to keep it from him, now. Venti sighs deeply and rubs his face.]

This is all just... poorly timed. My being an archon again, I mean. [He looks away.] ...I'm not okay, Zhong. I haven't been okay for a couple months, if I'm being really honest with both of us.

[lapislazily]

[He chuckles.] I just like flavor. [It's probably why he doesn't mind Sichuan cooking.

Venti's body language is closed off, not the impish and relaxed draping that he's come to expect. This truly is dire. But now that he knows what has happened, he can... do his best to comfort Venti. It isn't something he's good at, but this is not the first time he's had a sad windy boy turn up at his doorstep. Zhongli has always been a safe haven for Venti and that has not changed in the thousand years or so they've known one another in this life.

As if he would befriend Venti only because he looked like his old best friend... It's more happy coincidence that things ended up the way they did. A blessing, even if Zhongli's well aware he hasn't been the... best kind of friend lately.

He lets Venti take his hand. That hadn't been his intention, but he's fine with this-- fine with the exploratory touches, even though he feels some long-buried part of him tremble. He puts it out of his mind. Venti's feelings are more important at the moment...

... Even if he's saying weird things again.]

Uh, [he starts, clearing his throat,] t-that won't be necessary. I remember what they look like, so please concern yourself with warming up.

[A very gentlemanly response, though Venti's won himself a glimpse of a blush for the boldness. Zhongli takes a sip of tea to ground himself.

Then Venti admits what they both know, that he's not okay. Zhongli is quiet for a moment, too. His gaze is heavy, but not judging. He sets his cup back down.]

... It took a few hundred years to admit that myself, so you're well ahead of me, [he says dryly.] Though that's no surprise.

Tell me what ails you, xīfēng, and perhaps your heart will ease in the telling.

[venti_late]

[Venti quietly giggles to himself as he sees that glimpse of a blush. It's such an old, prude of a man's response to what he said. The bard takes great pride in his ability to fluster the unflappable Zhongli.

He falls silent again, hesitating. His eyes drift upwards to the sky like it's a source of comfort despite the weather. When Venti finally speaks again, his voice is quiet and just... melancholic.]

Before the rebellion in Mondstadt, there once lived a bard. He never knew sky or bird, but he dreamed of freedom. You could hear it in his songs, in every note he plucked from his lyre. A little wisp from the thousand winds met him one day, and they became best friends. The bard taught him all about the power of music, friendship, and what freedom really means.

The little wisp told him about the eagles outside the wall of storm, and resolved to find a feather as a gift for his friend. When he came back with feather hidden, the war of rebellion had broken out. The wisp joined his friends in the fray as the bard sang his songs to bolster the rebels' spirits.

[His hands tighten their grip on his arms. Venti's green eyes get a little misty as he takes a quiet breath before continuing.]

Decarabian's tower was broken, but the arrows of an enemy archer had found the bard. Though freedom was attained, the bard died with a broken lyre and never saw his dream realized... and the eagle feather was unable to be gifted. When the little wisp suddenly gained the power of an archon, he knew he needed a human form. So... he took the form of his fallen friend as his divine vessel.

[He closes his eyes.]

I haven't looked in a mirror since remembering.

[Venti falls silent, awaiting whatever judgment or reaction Zhongli has to that information. He's smart. He can probably figure it out with little help from the black-haired man.]

[lapislazily]

[Zhongli isn't expecting a story but he understands what's happening. It's easier to distance oneself if they just become a character in the story, rather than approach it from the point of view of someone who lived it. He's used the tactic several times since coming here.

The wind spirit in this is easily recognizable as Venti, but the link drawn between his appearance and this mysterious friend is... new. He's never heard of this bard, not even once. The significance of the bard's influence on Venti can't be overstated-- his love of the lyre, the songs he sings about freedom, his very appearance. Perhaps it was the bard's sacrifice that made the wisp into the god of freedom in the first place.

It's entirely different from Zhongli's own experiences, and yet he also knows the pain of loss, of unfulfilled promises and broken dreams.]

Venti...

[He uses this name instead of Barbatos, because it feels like the other one is terribly inappropriate right now. Sitting across the table isn't enough. He moves the tray a bit so that he can reach across the table and place his hand on top of Venti's.]

It's obvious to me, even as a listener, that you assumed that form as a way of keeping his memory alive. You cannot blame yourself for that, nor can you blame yourself for how you were reborn. That was out of your control.

[He remembers how weird and disconnected he felt when he remembered being a dragon. Some part of Zhongli still feels a bit unsettled with it all, even though he has plenty more memories of flying around than of being a human. But it's not the same as what Venti's going through...]

If you have lost sight of who 'you' are, then allow me to remind you. I will regale you with tales of the bravest bard I have ever known: a person who would stand up to a storm if it inconvenienced him enough, with a soul that burns bright and a voice that has ever rung true.

You are Venti, no matter what you look like. You are you by virtue of the things that you have done to get here. Things that no one else could ever hope to accomplish. A person is more than their deeds as well. The way your eyes light up when you hear a bit of music on the wind, the precise firmness of your hand in mine, the way you bite your bottom lip when you're thinking—no one else can replicate those things perfectly.

And if it still bothers you that your appearance once belonged to another... Tell me, does a sunrise seem less beautiful the second time you see it? It does not. Not for me.

[He's not talking about the sunrise anymore. Fuck it.]

[venti_late]

[He doesn't acknowledge the brunet saying his name. Not until there's a hand on his. Only then does Venti look at his friend, unable to keep the pain out of his eyes. Empathy, grief that's lasted two immortal lifetimes... guilt.

Yet, the bard remains quiet as Zhongli speaks to him from the heart. It's similar to what Zulius has told him, which helps to relax the knot that's been forming in his heart and throat. As the brunet talks about who Venti is, and how he sees him, that's when Venti sees just how much Zhongli has committed his habits, his personality, to memory. He still sees Venti as beautiful and himself, not someone who stole something from the bard whose name he can't remember.

Stars, if the timing was better... but it's fine. This is what he needed to hear.]

... Hehe, I can see that it was silly of me to be scared of telling you this story. I was worried you'd... see me or Barbatos more negatively.

[He understands and accepts Barbatos' reasoning. Venti knows he'd probably have done the same thing if he didn't have a human form to call his own.]

Perhaps it's the bard's way of telling me it's okay. His gift to me as his friend's reincarnation. I remember enough about him that he would hate to see me or Barbatos... caged like this because of his memory. I'm not sure Barbatos was ever able to move on in his grief, but... that's just how it is. It stays with you no matter what you do, where you go, or how many friends you make.

[Venti shakes his head and takes Zhongli's hand in his, squeezing it lightly.]

I don't blame Barbatos for his decision. It's... just been difficult to separate that from what I look like, even though I know that it was outside of my control. [He manages a small smile.] But I think I like being a second sunrise.

[lapislazily]

[Venti seems to be coming around, which is a relief. Zhongli didn't realize until now just how much his friend is like the moon guiding him when the world is darkest. Sometimes the moon disappears from the sun's light and turns invisible in the sky, but they've somehow managed to get through it.]

If you wanted to be rid of me, you should have left me in that manhole. I'm afraid it's too late now. No matter what you say or do, I'll always remain. Such is the weight of stone, I fear.

[He says it so... backwards, but this is his way of teasing, as they both know.]

... That's right. The pain of losing someone doesn't disappear, it just becomes easier to handle. You learn how to hold onto that grief while you carry other things, and eventually, you barely notice it in your hand next to everything else. But when it's the only thing you're holding in your hands, you remember it keenly. That isn't necessarily a bad thing.

[He squeezes Venti's hand in return. His hand looks strange without a glove on it-- to Zhongli, anyway. Yet the amber leylines coursing down his arm to his fingertips glow in a warm and familiar way, content to radiate a little sunlight at the moon until it can produce its own.]

A sunrise I never grow tired of.

[He smiles a little.]

... Hm. Close your eyes for a moment.

[It sounds like he's about to kiss Venti. That's not what's going to happen, though.]

[venti_late]

[That gets a laugh out of Venti.]

But then the bird wouldn't have a lonely mountain to sing to and pester! Besides, you looked so helpless that it would've been cruel of me to leave you in a sewer.

[He's starting to come out of this with his usual cheer again. It's still muted, but it's undeniable progress. Zhongli's right about how keenly grief can be felt in those moments of quiet, so the bard merely nods in agreement.

Venti returns the smile.]

You say the sweetest things to me, old man.

[Despite the tease, there's genuine affection in his voice. He truly appreciates him. Though, Zhongli's request to close his eyes has him a little confused, Venti does oblige without question. The bard trusts his friend completely.]

Honestly, telling me to close my eyes after saying all of that with such a straight face... should I expect a kiss?

[He's teasing because he knows that's not what Zhongli's going to do. Although, if he did, it'd be an extremely effective way to shut the bard up and take him wholly off-guard.]

[lapislazily]

I would have been very disappointed. [He recalls feeling very helpless too, like he does right now with how vulnerable that laugh makes him. (He missed the laugh. Venti hasn't done a lot of laughing lately.)

He shakes his head. Old man... he's not wrong, but still. That's so rude.] I merely speak the truth.

[It's too bad that Venti has his eyes closed because he misses Zhongli's hopelessly perplexed expression. He's not trying to make an excuse to kiss Venti. If he wanted to, he'd just do it. And he does want to, but it's-- look, it's not a good time. For either of them.

He wants to ask Venti if that's what he wants, but the lurch in his heart tells him that he doesn't want to know the answer if it's not one he likes. Today has been full of enough emotional realizations.

So he doesn't deign that with an answer at all.

There's a brief golden glow that Venti can probably see beneath his eyelids, followed by the sound of little claws on metal as he scampers up the back of Venti's bistro chair like a cat. And then, at last, Zhongli in his small, noodly copper dragon form drapes about Venti's shoulders. He has little glowing leylines in this shape, too-- new, but familiar all the same. And he's warm. The most important part.]

You looked a little cold, [he says, not caring if it's a thinly-veiled excuse for cuddles. Venti is in need of them right now.]

[venti_late]

[Honestly, it's probably a good thing Venti misses his friend's expression or else he might've done something impulsive. Like jump him or kiss the dumb lizard himself. He's a surprisingly patient man, but even he has his limits.

He's confused by the flash of light behind his eyelids up until he hears claws on metal. It's the only reason why Venti doesn't startle when there's suddenly a small dragon draping across his shoulders. The bard immediately opens his eyes once Zhongli has settled, turning his head to look at the little dragon. There's his bright smile that reaches his eyes.]

Awww, and you look adorable!

[There's no hesitation as the black-haired man starts to gently scritch at all of the places he remembers that are Zhongli's favorites.]

I forgot just how warm you are in this form! You really are a fashionable scarf. [This has been the absolute highlight of the past couple of months, now. Zhongli doesn't change to his dragon form often even with Venti, so he recognizes the gesture for what it is.] Your leylines are new, but they look beautiful on you no matter what form you take. Like amber in golden sunlight.

[lapislazily]

[Limits that appear to be fast approaching. Will Zhongli make a move first or will Venti jump him? We just don't know. NEXT TIME ON THE YOUNG OLD AND THE RESTLESS.

He doesn't really enjoy being a pet, exactly, but he doesn't mind if it's Venti, because Venti gives him smiles like this. Clearly this is what Venti needs: a distraction from his own problems in the form of a baby dragon who is not so baby, and is happy to share his heat.

He's just trying to be helpful here, but Venti's scritching never misses. His eyes become amber slits and he makes a low noise not unlike a purr.]

I... didn't realize you had observed them so keenly, [he manages, some sibilance leaking through. He can't help it, he has a dragon tongue right now, okay.] I nearly forgot that I once had them, since I've lived so long without.

[He bonks Venti's hand affectionately when it gets close to his face, like a cat. Don't call him out on it though.]

Your markings have always reminded me of fine jewels arranged to complement and accent your form. They will suit your outfits in the orchestra well.

[venti_late]

[The baby dragon is definitely a baby who will be quietly upset if Venti doesn't pet him. Zhongli is a lizard that's secretly a cat.

He grins as he hears that purr. It's nice to know he hasn't forgotten those spots or lost his touch.]

Of course I did! I seem to recall you running around shirtless like Adonis back in the day. As beautiful then as you are now.

[Venti won't call him out on it because he knows the second he does, this stops so that the dragon can pout about it. He's gentle, though, as he starts petting Zhongli's head. At the compliment to his markings, there's something of a sly smile.]

Oh? I hadn't realized you were looking so closely at my legs.

[He can't help it given the placement for one of his leylines. He's well aware that it's also located on his chest.]

[lapislazily]

[He makes a sound like a snort, but his tail curls at the compliment anyway.] I simply didn't wear clothes that got in my way. [Menogias definitely helped on the fashion front, but that was later...]

I— [That tail now goes taptaptaptaptap, giving his embarrassment away.] It was difficult not to, with how you played the cello during the shows last month.

[venti_late]

[It's adorable how unintentionally more expressive Zhongli is as a dragon.]

If it wasn't you saying that, I'd say they were a liar.

[Venti is so amused by this.]

Yeah, and that was before I got my leylines, which I haven't even showed you yet. So, you most definitely noticed and committed it to memory when I was in full Barbatos glory, riiiiight?

[lapislazily]

I'm not sure if that is a compliment...

[Then he just has to walk right into Venti's trap. Whoops.]

I never forget a face, and your leylines are very distinctive. Your appearance at that time was certainly fetching; the sight of you in the sky was not unlike that of a rare and beautiful bird.

[If you're going to rope him into complimenting you, you'd better be able to take it.]

[venti_late]

[This little—]

There you go with your pretty yet heartfelt words. You know how to make a guy feel cherished with that honesty of yours.

[He's fondly and playfully exasperated, but there's sincerity behind his words. Zhongli is perfectly capable of lifting people up or cutting them down without even reaching for a weapon. Just sometimes it's unintentional one way or another. Venti carefully scitches behind his friend's mane.]

Whether on land or in sky, the dragon goes with grace. Copper of scale and amber of eye, he's beautiful and divine. He has such a gentle embrace, yet it's his smile that's sweeter than any wine.

[Venti grins, the dark clouds of his melancholy swept away. Even if it's only for now, he feels like he can face this hurdle in small steps rather than be overwhelmed by it.]

[lapislazily]

[Zhongli feels so pampered right now. Scritches in just the right places, and a bard composing poetry? He's not a king anymore, it's ridiculous, but he soaks it all up anyway.]

I could never hope to match your mastery of the written word, [he murmurs so only Venti can hear.] If anyone is to feel cherished at the moment, it must be me, with sonnets filling my ears and the softest hands on my scales.

[Something lingers between them, unspoken. He won't acknowledge it, not in its entirety, but—]

Do you know how long it has been since I imagined a future without the chains that bind me? [By itself, the question could be almost treasonous against the Order, but...] Yet I find myself thinking of it more and more. No matter the backdrop my imagination provides, one thing stays the same: I am at your side, always.

[His tail curls around the closest wrist.]

I would be there, if you would have me.

[venti_late]

[Venti's more than happy to treat this silly dragon like the king he is. Though, considering who the bard is at heart, it won't be as a sycophant, at least.]

Good, because I do cherish you.

[This should be quite obvious, but this is Zhongli. Sometimes, he needs it spelled out for him.

The bard is quiet for a moment as he considers the meaning behind the dragon's words. He gently strokes the scales on Zhongli's back, but pauses as his friend's tail wraps around the wrist of his free hand. His green eyes seem to soften.]

I'd imagine it's been too long since the copper dragon dreamed of freedom. The nightmares of his containment have surely kept him awake at night, and the sweeter dreams have been few and far between, I bet.

[Venti smiles gently as he now rubs his finger gently between Zhongli's horns.]

I swore on the sun, the moon, and the stars that I'd be with you always. When you're ready, I'll be here, waiting for you to join me so we can take your next journey together.

[lapislazily]

[That... is very sweet. His amber eyes pop open to watch Venti. As a dragon it's difficult to discern his expression. However, given that he's still purring lowly and half-wrapped around his friend, he seems happy.]

Sweet dreams have been rare, but they are all the more valuable in his mind. Visions of walking along the cobbles and the canals, to soaring ever upward in a distant sky... All that is ephemeral continues to shine in his memory, bringing him comfort when he is apart from his loved ones.

[Oh no. Oh no. He can't help closing his eyes again, and he relaxes his hold on Venti's wrist in favor of stretching aaaaaaaaaaaaall the way out. He was a noodle before, but now he is a relaxed noodle.]

Together, [he echoes, his voice sounding distant and a touch sleepy to his own ears.] I... hope that day comes soon.

[There is so much he wants to tell Venti, but he doesn't feel like he can even hope to begin when he's still involved in the Black Order. He pauses... and finds some words, heartfelt and quietly determined.]

I cannot abandon the people who look to me for protection. So, please wait a little longer, and watch over me. Perhaps you will witness what the God of Freedom can inspire in others.

[venti_late]

[Venti does love to see a happy dragon.]

Mm... sounds almost exactly like my dreams. Who knew I'd have so much in common with the dragon? But in my dreams, I sometimes see myself flying with a dragon of copper. Maybe that one will become a reality someday.

[He can't help giggling as he sees Zhongli stretch his small noodle body completely out. The dragon is absolutely the most catlike creature the bard's ever met.]

So do I, mein Schatzdrache.

[Oh. He's a little surprised by that. Yet, that spark of determination and rebellion within his friend does make his heart soar. Venti grins at him.]

Hehe, I look forward to seeing what freedom means for the God of Contracts. But I have patience for you. However long it takes, I'll wait for you and sing outside your window until you finally come out to greet your favorite bard.

[lapislazily]

[Zhongli does remember flying in the skies with the wind spirit, very very very far back. It's an interesting feeling. His memory is perfect and always has been, even in this life, so it feels as any memory should. But Zhongli is a flightless dragon; he's never once been able to fly in his serpentine form in this life, and he doesn't know if he'll ever be able to...

He'd like to, though. Much as he'd like to shift back into his more humanoid form and wrap his arms around Venti right now. But that would probably startle the both of them and be very ungraceful, so he'll remain a dragon. For now.

When he's called that term of endearment, he opens his eyes again and looks up at Venti. The next time the dark-haired man gets his hand close for petting, he might feel a brief snakey tongue dart out over his knuckles.]

I'll endeavor not to ignore the wind this time, especially if it sings so sweetly.

[He makes his way down into Venti's lap with gentle little steps of his draconic paws, soft but sure like a cat, and coils up.]

You should drink your tea before it gets cold, [he murmurs.]

[venti_late]

[It's a pity that Zhongli has a sense of decorum while Venti doesn't. The bard isn't one to shy away from a good-looking man with mutual attraction falling into his lap, so to speak. On the other hand, as he reaches back to pet the dragon again, getting a little dragon kiss to his knuckles more than makes up for it.]

If the songs carried on the wind help to bring the dragon sweet dreams, I'll be his free-spirited little nightingale. I've that heard from an old storyteller that their songs are healing.

[He still remembers that story. How can Venti not when his power to heal through music is what inspired Zhongli to tell him it in the first place?

The bard almost, almost squeals in delight as Zhongli coils up in his lap, but he refrains. Only barely. Venti grins brightly as he gives his friend a final scritch behind his mane before going to finish his tea... and feeds Zhongli some apple slices before they go brown. He won't touch the scones since that might get crumbs on his poor lap dragon.]

Mm, just one last thing, Zhong. Do you mind if I carry you back inside?

[For once, he's asking, which likely indicates that he still wants Zhongli to stay a dragon for a little longer.]