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[localweirdo]

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text, un: hongyu

[rainswords]

Greetings Hu Tao,

It would appear that you did not vanish from this place, after all. Here you had me believing you found some way to return to Liyue safely, that's what I had hoped for anyway since your disappearance coincided with that of Adeptus Xiao's. Although if we can be drawn into the city, isn't it possible that there are many more places such as this one? So I've come to ask, were you able to return to our homeland?

One more thing. Hot Dog City or Nacho City? I do not believe I have to explain what the names imply.

Welcome back,
Xingqiu

Text; un: pantsonpyre

[localweirdo]

Salutations Xingqiu,

Indeed, yes, I have returned to Liyue before arriving here once more. Although, I'm sad to see Adeptus Xiao no longer be here as I wish to talk to him more. However, it simply means that we will need to spend more time together. As for now, I suppose I'll have to go with Hot Dog City. It seems more pleasing than the nachos.

Your friend,
Hu Tao.

1/2

[rainswords]

Despite my wish for your safe return to Liyue, honestly, I am surprised you managed to go home. Now I am wondering just how you were able to do so. As far as I know, no one has been able to return through conscious effort. Would that have been the case for you too? Did you just find yourself in Liyue once again? And it is unfortunate that Adeptus Xiao has left us, although it is good for Liyue.

2/3 - i lied it's three

[rainswords]

Hu Tao, you're looking to spend more time with me? You must have missed me while I have been away for you say such sentimental words. Have you been able to settle anywhere yet? There are plenty of unoccupied residences. Fortunately, I found a place that has a few kind people living nearby. How about if I assist in settling in?

done!

[rainswords]

Or I suppose Hot Dog City will have to do.

[localweirdo]

I wish I only knew how I got back home. From what I could remember, I just suddenly appeared in Liyue before I only arrived here once more. It seems like this place simply cannot make up its mind if I should stay or go. Although, if you could be so kind of assist me in finding a place to stay, that would be wonderful! The more time we spend, the better!

As for the Hot Dog City, it will have to do. Not quite the restaurant I was expecting but I can't complain!

[rainswords]

Then it is safe to assume you didn't glean anything from the experience that could help us now. No matter. We'll find a way to return home, and we will do so together. For now, well, in Liyue there aren't as many opportunities for us to spend time together so perhaps whatever forces brought us here have decided that we should get take advantage of the opportunity given to us.

Where are you now? I can come to meet you. And whether you want to stay in Hot Dog City or more suitable lodgings, I can guide you either.



Look I just found this. Can you see the bunny too?

[localweirdo]

All the more reason why we need to make sure that we enjoy our time together here, no? We might as well make the most out of it! As for where I am, I'm by the graveyard right now! Unless, you want me to go to where you are and we can see where this Hot Dog City is!

And indeed, I can. Why do you ask?

text. @kaveh

[fussiest]

To Miss Hu Tao,
I still find messaging people out of the blue without a salutation to be a bit strange. But to start off this message: I hope that you are well, and that October was not a harrowing experience for you.
I had a few questions that I thought you might have the expertise in - would you have a moment of time? I would be very grateful for any help or insight you may be able to provide.

[localweirdo]

It isn't strange, there's no need to feel the need to apologize! I have been well given the circumstances but it could have been worse. I hope it hasn't been too much of a bother for you as well.

And please, go right ahead! What are these questions you have for me?

[fussiest]

Hah! Bother is a bit of an understatement, but - what's done is done. I'm infinitely pleased that every day into November will take me one day further away from October.

But the questions are... perhaps a bit strange. I wasn't sure how to word them, but I suppose I ought to give it a try regardless.
I was thinking, when is a death not a death?
Or rather, does the act of coming back from death make the death any less of a death?

[localweirdo]

[.................................]

I think the better question is what happened? Because I am very well aware that death is not permanent here and it makes me wonder why you would think such a thing.

I am assuming that things were okay, correct?

[fussiest]

Well, in one shape or another, it is okay. Or rather, it will need to be okay.
But to clarify, I didn't die, and there isn't a specific person's death I am thinking of.
Given the way this city is, however - if death is not permanent, then is it still death? Or is the finality part of the definition what makes death truly a death?
Sorry, I don't know if I'm making sense. It's just been something that has been on my mind.

[localweirdo]

Then that's good to hear! I was worried that something might have happened! But now that there is nothing to fear, I think I can confidently answer your questions.

In my opinion, it might not be death considering that it is not permanent. However, that does not mean one does not experience death. The issue is knowing that one could face it multiple times.

action; backdated to october

[rainswords]

[ Xingqiu is familiar with the idea of selecting an appropriate garment for an event or festivity. His family hosts plenty of guests during various celebrations. This however is unusual and although he had considered declining participation, it would appear he would have to select a costume for himself in the end; and also one for Chongyun after their short exchange he was left with that task — although that was due to Xingqiu convincing the exorcist that it would be appropriate to wear one during the city's celebration. He had to sate his own curiosity after all, and now he has to ride a fine line between his own preferences and what Chongyun would accept to wear.

He could easily consider his own preferences; although he isn't looking to embarrass his dear friend. Probably. There were a few costumes that could be considered cute, and while he would want to see Chongyun in those, he knows that may be a battle. He is confident he could eventually manage to get the exorcist to wear those but...

Shopping alone isn't any fun, knowing Hu Tao seemed thrilled with the spectacle that was about to be unleashed in the city he naturally tagged along with her for this endeavor. He could see her picking through costumes. Did she have her heart set on something to wear already? Was she looking for a particular outfit? He brings his hand to his chin a moment watching her thoughtfully as he tilts his head. ]

You know, I've given Chongyun's costume plenty of thought but I haven't spared a moment for myself. Any suggestions?

Also, what do you think about this? For Chongyun of course. [ And then he immediate holds up a costume. It would seem that his heart is set on dressing the exorcist up as a cat, however, there is a pensive expression on his face. Soon he lets out a short laugh. ] He might overheat in this... but considering the selection of cat costumes here...

action

[localweirdo]

[Indeed, this was the first time that Hu Tao had ever heard of such a holiday. To know that this holiday had people dress up in various costumes for the sake of scaring people for candy was rather unique. If anything, this was certainly right up her alley as she looked for the costumes. So far, there wasn't anything that seemed to interest her. This was her first-time celebrating Halloween and she wants to make sure it would be something she would enjoy!

And yet, all she could do was sigh to herself. Now that she was shopping with her friend, everything just disappointed her. Nothing screamed out to her no matter where she looked! Shaking her head, everything just seemed so basic. Would she just have to make a costume of her own? Regardless, she didn't have to think for long as Xingqiu happened to hold an outfit up.]

I don't see why not! Although, if you are to dress him up as a cat, might I suggest that you have a dog costume? Or perhaps something else that would match with the costume you're holding up?

[After all, if the both of them were going to dress up? She might as well make them match! Giggling to herself, she placed one of her hand on her hips.]

Unless, you have something else in mind.

Re: action

[rainswords]

[ Not only is this their first time celebrating Halloween together; this is the first time they are celebrating Halloween at all. Xingqiu is aware of why Hu Tao is so keen on this new holiday, it is one that actually encourages her type of mischief. He is well aware of how often the funeral director has spooked their chef friend. Xiangling must be breathing a sigh of relief at this very moment... that thought is what tugs at his lips to form an amused smile.

However, the smile soon fades as he once again regards the costume he has selected for their friend. It is obvious he is still concerned about Chongyun being unable to keep his cool, although considering this is supposed to be a celebration perhaps it wouldn't be a bad thing if the exorcist honestly joined in the fun. And it has been some time since he has seen him act on impulse. ] I would say I am not much of a dog person. Besides, aren't cats and dogs usually categorized as enemies?

Not only that, there is no rule costumes should match is there? If that were the case wouldn't you also select something based on this costume? [ Saying that last line he gives the cat costume a shake on its hanger. ]

Or is it that you perhaps already have something image in mind? So far you've already gone through quite a number of garments and from your previous expression it appears nothing has pleased you.

[localweirdo]

Ever the observer you are, Xingqiu! You're correct, there is something that I have in mind! Although, from what I have seen, nothing seems to fit what I want as I would assume that there would be vampires costumes here.

[She said before looking at the various costumes around her. Again, she shakes her head as she gave them a small frown. While she might be overzealous of what she wants, she might as well go big or go home. Although, she did have to raise an eyebrow at his other comments.]

And yes, you are correct, there is no rule that costumes have to match but I figured we might as well since this is our first Halloween together. Besides, wouldn't it be cute to see matching outfits?

[Although, if they were to match, she wasn't too sure how the other two would accept it. After all, she only wanted to dress up as one considering the irony of dressing up as an immortal being given her occupation. Still, as she waited for his response, she kept her eyes around the outfits before her.

It seems that she'll have no choice but to make one herself....]

[rainswords]

It's likely that we're not the first people to come searching for a costume at this shop. The selection has probably been trimmed down to fewer choices. Procrastination will punish us now. Or we could opt to neglect the part in the invitation that asks us to don costumes. However, I am well aware that would displease you. You really are looking forward to this, aren't you?

But I am too. In my own way.

[ Draping the cat costume over his left arm, he gives Hu Tao a one-over; from the top of her head to her shoes. His eyebrows knit together, he is quick to realize that this is the second time that she has referenced vampires. Her sudden interest leaves him curious. ] Am I allowed to ask what has swayed your specific choice? It would seem you already had your heart set, much like I believe a cat costume is appropriate for Chongyun.

And you are right. It is our first time celebrating this holiday and we will get to experience it together. Although I am not sure how Chongyun would feel about it being cute to have a theme for our outfits.

Perhaps don't tell him until we have him dressed up.

text. backdated to the eeeeendish of november!

[fussiest]

Miss Hu Tao, this is Kaveh. I hope that this month has treated you well so far, and that no odd book shenanigans have befallen you.
I am writing to cordially invite you to the Sunlight at Midnight gala. You mentioned there was very little to do here in this city - I'd like to bring to life something that you might find fun.
The details are posted on a bulletin at the Welcome Diner, and they're on the network as well. Do you think this is something you might be interested in coming to?
And by the way - I met a young man who likes cemeteries perhaps as much as you do. I thought I'd mention that at the very least. You might find an unusual friend.

[localweirdo]

Why, how kind of you to invite me to such a splendid affair! I would love to go and especially when I'm free most days! In fact, this would be a lovely time for me to showcase my poetry to others! Perhaps I could make some new friends there!

As for this mysterious young man, mind if I ask who it could be?

[fussiest]

Well, we've prepared a stage for all kinds of entertainment, and poetry certainly is a sort. Though if your poetry involves references to body odours, I'm not certain how well they'll be received...

Ah, his name is Chesed. He is a librarian who works at the Bookstore, and a man who has a fine taste for coffee. He'd spent some time in the cemetery here and found it comforting.
In truth, I'm still not sure why he'd decided to be in the cemetery for that long to begin with - but then again, you were there too. Perhaps there's a common conversation topic to be had?

[localweirdo]

I could if I want to. Especially when it could bring in excitement as they wonder why such a topic was brought up. Or perhaps I could tell a story about it as they wonder what happens next as they lean in closer with anticipation!

Chesed, huh? Maybe I'll go and talk to him whenever I have the chance. Will he be at the party too? Although, I suppose talking about death at such a lively party would be in bad taste.

[fussiest]

If you're certain about it, you can always ask Ghost. She's the one who's pulling this gala together - I'm just a pair of hands and a set of lungs who's running about spreading it.

And I believe he may be! Many of his colleagues will be attending, so it makes sense for him to enter the fray. You'll know him if you see him - he has blue hair, and he's carrying with him the scent of coffee. He's very into the drink, and I know as a matter of fact that coffee's impossible to get out of clothing.
You'll come, then?

delivery. backdated to whichever day was the winter solstice in this city!

[fussiest]

[ with a text messaging indicating where in the post office kaveh has dropped off her gift, hu tao will find at the counter a paper-wrapped gift labeled with her name blooming profusely from its seams with long-stemmed paper flowers in dizzying greens and reds and oranges splayed along the painted watercolours of a rising, winter-morning dawn pale with still-visible pinpricks of mourning stars.

unwrapped, the package will reveal a sketchbook bound with red ribbon that, went untied, reveals the story that they came up with together at the gala. the story within the sketchbook is illustrated in watercolour, each word carefully transcribed from memory in kaveh's slantwise printing-press precise handwriting, the characters drawn larger-than-life with grand expressions and exquisite detailing.

in particular, the princess in the story has brown hair and eyes like fireworks in motion. she looks, in fact, an awful lot like hu tao.

the note that comes with it: ]

To Miss Hu Tao,

Thank you again for the lovely story you spun for me at the gala. In truth, I'd been wondering how to thank you for the smile you had put on my face that day, and when the opportunity to exchange gifts during the longest night of the year came up, I thought that I could at least bring a reminder of that night to life. Forgive me if I have forgotten some of the wording, or have taken liberties with the characters' designs.

May your coming year be as sweet as watermelon, and as fruitful as pomegranates.

With kind regards,

Kaveh