localweirdo | City Inbox

[ 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...

[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.

[ 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.

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....]

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.

Of course! It’s not everyday that we get to dress up and have fun! Especially when it is not a tradition in Liyue and perhaps all over Teyvat. I have yet to hear of such a holiday in any of the other nations.

[Indeed, now that she didn’t have to worry about her job as much, she could allow herself just a moment to relax. As troublesome as it was to know that her occupation is no longer needed here, she wanted to view this as an opportunity to get to know others and to spend some time with her friends.

And with a giggle, she simply gave a nod.]

And perhaps we shouldn’t. Although, I wonder if it would give him too much energy given the excitement of it all. Now, wouldn’t that be an interesting sight to see? And yet, I do have to admit, I’m not sure if he would like to see me dress up as something of the living dead.

[ There is a slow nod in response; he still cannot help but attempt to delve through memory for any information however much like her Xingqiu cannot recall hearing about any holiday that resembles this one nor has he read any accounts involving similar celebrations. It only confirms the fact that they would be celebrating this holiday for the first time. ]

Honestly, I am not certain how involved I could be with this particular holiday if it were hosted in Liyue.

[ He had obligations to his family, most importantly he had to keep the reputation of the Feiyun Commerce Guild in mind. Not here, not now. He could join her on silly escapades and have fun without worries or concerns. ]

As for Chongyun, when he's completely honest when his passion overflows it's always a sight to see. I quite enjoy watching him have a good time. Now as for his opinion on your costume, rather than upset, hopefully there wouldn't be any misunderstandings. I can't have my friend attempt to exorcize my other friend.

I'm sure that you could find the time. Perhaps I should steal you away in the middle of the night and make sure no one could see you.

[But alas, for all she jokes, it was only wishful thinking. As much as she would like for her friend to enjoy such things, she knew that he probably would not allow given his reputation. With a sigh, she could only hope that they would enjoy such things while they were here.]

But you have to admit, that would be a sight to see. To know that Chongyun would attempt to do such a thing on me would be rather amusing. Perhaps it would convince him to let loose and have some fun? I highly doubt he could ever harm me!

[If anything, it would be her that might get him too passionate and overwork himself!]

[ Soft laughter follows after her proposal; Xingqiu understands that her words are not meant to be entirely serious, although this is Hu Tao. This means there is a possibility she might just attempt to aid him in absconding from home. All he has to do is fabricate some story regarding a business proposal — but why concern himself with that now? They're far from Liyue, they can enjoy this festivity without worry!

Therefore he starts his search through the clothes rack anew! ]

That's exactly right! I want him to have fun, not just a bit, he has to let loose completely. I want him to join us and enjoy himself, after all... consider when we return to Liyue, perhaps we won't have such opportunities. As we get older we'll have more responsibilities on us, that's a part of being an adult. However I have to say, somehow Ms. Hu has retained some of her vivacious childish nature.

[ Sifting through the costumes, he still hasn't found anything that could top his initial pick for Chongyun; he has to admit to himself that he has gotten stuck on the cat costume plan. Of course, he is willing to find another feline-style costume that might not be so snug for someone who suffers from Chongyun's condition. Once again he looks up to take a peek at the rack Hu Tao has been searching through. ] Any cat costumes over there?

[It wasn't what she wanted to think about he was right. As they get older, they will have less time to enjoy their youth and work will continue to pile on. As she was getting used to that idea, the thought of having more work did scare her. For all the hard work she put into her family business, she also didn't want to lose any of her hobbies too.

Why did growing up have to suck?]

Now, now, let's not think about it too much. We aren't in Liyue and such thoughts aren't going to get us anywhere when it hasn't happened yet. Let us enjoy this time we have or else we will have to go back and face the task of more work!

[The thought of it was sending shivers down her spine!]

As for the costumes, perhaps this one would be beneficial? [She said before showing this one to him.]

[ There is a single nod from Xingqiu readily agreeing; it's much of what he said but the thought would likely remain on the back of his mind. It seems it is very much the case for her too. They can't completely abandon the future they imagined despite being so far from home now surrounded by the strangeness of the city. Even this celebration can't make them forget their responsibilities. And after all, Xingqiu had already made a decision.

Yet, just for a moment, when he focuses again on his search for a costume. Just seeing Hu Tao's mischievous expression as she holds the cat costume of her choice aloft for him to view, he can smile, almost laugh again. ] I think we would be running into the same problem once again. He may still overheat wearing that outfit. Although, we might as well take it. We can give him some options. It'll be up to him. To decide which cat costume he will wear.

[ From a small pool of their selections that is. Acting this way would give Chongyun the illusion of choice. He would still be a cat. ]

Hm. You know what I am certain he wouldn't accept? [ He provides an answer by holding another costume up for her to see. This one is an obvious no, of course. ]

Not unless you ask.

[Of course he wouldn't wear it. She had a feeling he didn't want to wear the previous costume that she held up, why would he want this one? However, she couldn't help but keep on giggling. This was nothing short of what they would do back home. Teasing one another and having the time of their life before they go back to their routine.

As she waved her hand in front of her, she attempted to cool down before getting a closer look at said outfit.]

...Although, I wonder if you would be willing to wear it. It seems like it suits you much better than him. [With a mischievous grin, she gave her hand out as if to say that she wants to hold onto said outfit.]

Shall I have it and see if my assumptions are correct?

City Inbox

action; backdated to october

action

Re: action

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject