wishhero

[wishhero]

i'll try to be a little more active. but was preparing for stuff. i share a bday with furina. and that's tomorrow (my time) so might be on after my lunch with family

[wishhero]

wanna interact with this new fandomless oc? she's a popular fashion designer with a stoic personality, a workaholic that is kind enough to give her clothes for free + she has her own charity. if you're interested, give this a ♡ or ↻

[wishhero]

     jeht normally went off around sumeru to find the others from the tribe that betrayed her, but, she believed that all of them were gone. babel was no more, so she had no reason to continue staying, her home was all desert. the sounds coming from benben emitting its presense, it was time for her to explore a different country.

natlan was one that she had her sights on, it was similar to sumeru from what little she knew, plus it was closer to travel to from the desert. by boat was the best way with her and benben.

now where to go? she still had to be on guard for any monsters around or people that wanted to take advantage of her, there were people who still tried to scam tourists, she'd give them a piece of her mind if anyone tried.

although she could hear a faint voice, one she didn't imagine where her attention was given from afar. did she just ask if she was an eremite? her footsteps heading over towards the girl, a local from her assumption. benben making a noise once they were closer, "you didn't need to yell. you can just come up and ask." she paused, "and yes, I am." was it that strange to see an eremite?

a small sigh escapes her lips, jeht didn't think the local was a threat, she seemed too friendly. she didn't need to say her reason for being in natlan, "just take it as me being a tourist." along with her mechanical construct.

STARTER FOR @wishhero: JEHT

The people of Natlan typically kept to themselves, and the people of other nations typically kept to themselves as well. The difference was probably that tourism between nations was probably more popular with nations that WEREN’T Natlan. But although most of Natlan's inhabitants kept to their land as to not forsake the protection of the Pyro Archon, that didn't mean that they didn't know much about the surrounding lands.

In fact, Mualani would say she was pretty well versed with information of the other nations! it certainly came in handy, that's for sure. Most of what she knew, Mualani hadn't seen with her own eyes, but when a real life Eremite woman caught the young woman's eye, she wasted no time trying to strike up a conversation! Mualani had been wandering around Natlan's border, riding on her Sharky Surfboard, not daring to cross the actual body of water. she wouldn't dare forsake the protection of her Archon. Alas, while peering at the bay on Sumeru's line, trying to see if she could spot any trinkets she could maybe snag back for Kachina, Mualani spied the deep purple haired woman, a red fabric covering her eyes.

Mualani knew who she was at once. She was a Sumerian Eremite. In the flesh! Waving ecstatically from her position on the water, Mualani hollered from her far side. "HHHEEYYYY!!!! YOU THERE!!!! MISS!!!!" she yelled eagerly. "ARE YOU AN EREMITE???? I've never seen an Eremite before, really!! I hear your people tend to stay to Sumeru mostly!!" Mualani began to prattle on, her voice still quite loud.

Whether the girl on the other side of the bay could hear her is up for debate.

[wishhero]

     did he do something to annoy her? he said it was amazing simply because siyang truly thought it was. he heard that click of the tongue, ah- maybe what he asked was stupid. his upper body bowing a few several times, "sorry, sorry." it was an answer in itself, she did so well that she became the director. maybe he should think before he said something stupid again.

ah right, golden hues stared down for a moment then up again. "that was very brave of you, director hu." he couldn't exactly think on how she felt for that, it was years ago but, he couldn't be insensitive about it either.

"I have, my grandparents passed when I was young. I've had other members of my family pass too," he didn't want to dampen the mood too much, "I had an instance where my father was hurt so badly, I thought he was going to die - but then dr. baizhu came to the rescue." ack! maybe he shouldn't have said that.

"sorry," he bowed again, he didn't want to make her angry or anything. the stories he was told as a child were rather frightening, like a scary being under the bed, a hungry ghost, or a killer female ghost weeping under a tree. but they were just stories adults told kids so they could behave, right?

being around the director, hearing her speak about how they weren't real; relieved him, he felt as if he didn't need to be too scared. there were spirits around, but he had this sense of safety being next to her.

a small chuckle emitted from his lips, she certainly looked a lot younger than she appeared to be. but, guess that was all part of one's genes…or was it dna?

"I see why not. you can only be youthful once, I bet its a lot better to enjoy it a lot more than those who've lived for a long time." there were probably a few of them around, he couldn't imagine what it would be like to be ageless, immortal…just to live longer than humans. it wasn't a great existence, from the roles he's played.

his heart raced, he had to have his own sense of humour, and it wasn't like it was good to just attack the monsters either. it made him rather happy to hear her thoughts of him, he really couldn't be mean even if he tried. while he did want to hear her poetry, he didn't mind if it was a new or old one.

"yeah? i'd love that," siyang beamed. "I don't mind listening to one of your existing ones too." he'd let her decide on that.

eventually they arrived to an abandoned village, run down and in ruins. the chill didn't bother him, neither did the sight before him, it was like other plays, realism didn't hurt. only telling her a summary of his play, how the lead could see and communicate with spirits. to find who killed the wife, "he has! but, even before he was a detective, he tried to ignore them and eventually it lead him to finding bodies or solving cases unknowingly."

it was rather interesting, yet he knew not to give away too much information. "haha," he laughed sheepishly "you're the closest I can think of, director hu that can help me. I hope you don't mind. you're so great at what you do, I thought i'd get a good insight into your work." his hand rubbed the back of his neck, cheeks heated up, the tease made him feel somewhat bashful.

"alright, i'll stay behind and not get in your way." just allow her to do what she did while he observed, needing to take mental notes, he would disturb her or interrupt while she was at work, that'd be rude.

'Amazing' was certainly an unique term to describe the responsibility of performing burial services. A soft 'tch' sound elicited from her, "Well, I'm currently the director of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor so what does that tell you? ~"

It was nice to see there was sense of understanding coming from Siyang. That he was aware everyone reacted to loss in their own way. "The service was in particular for my grandfather. As I mentioned before it's a family business. So all the arrangements were made to the highest standard, of course" she replied. There was a bit of reflective sadness to her voice. However, at this moment there was resolve as well. "I'm sure you must of experienced your own losses." That silence was telling after all.

She was all too aware of the kind of fear mongering stories a child was told. At times being pinned as the particular boogieman to watch out for. Even then clients often treated her presence as an ominous curse. As if she were marking them for death.

She couldn't help but let out a small chuckle when it came to the question about her age. "Give out a few coupons to promote your funeral business and suddenly you are a few years younger. But why not have a little bit of fun in life before your body starts to decay ~" she joked. Ah, there was that infamous morbid humor once more.

Despite those youthful antics, when it came to her job...that she took seriously. And it was a side not many got to see unless the services being performed related directly to them. Siyang was certainly one of those 'brave' souls. Even if his intentions were to help gather inspiration for his latest play.

"Ahh..I see you have a sense of humor yourself, my dear client." she smiled still relieved that his request was mostly a joke. "That's good~" Two pyro users could definitely handle themselves out there.

"Heyyyy, it's true though," Hu Tao insisted when giving the compliments about the actors performance career. It wasn't long until she was put on the spot when he asked about her poetry.

"You want to hear one of my verses?" she blinked inclining her head some. She did wonder if he was knowledgeable of some of her other works. "How about this? You can be the first one to hear the poem I'll concoct up for that play of yours." she added offering the promise.

"Unless of course you are adamant to listen one of my existing ones?"

Eventually the walk would lead them to an run down, decrepit village. The few homes barely holding up their weak and rotting structures. Vine overgrowths and cobwebs littered the walls and corners. There was definite hints it was abandoned in a hurry. The air was even colder here. Up until then she had been carefully listening to Siyang's synposis on the upcoming detective mystery. All of which was very enticing to hear as she hung on to everywhere. It was nice to have such company this time around. And one that could even open themselves up around her.

"Certain music only plays when he's around? Tell me, has he heard any of those tunes before in his life? It's not uncommon for a spirit to communicate in more abstract ways."

Her eyebrow quirked at the next revelation "Aiyaa. Now that is something interesting. You're character can communicate with spirits. It is no wonder you have sought advice from someone who works closely with the deceased," she teased.

With that she did turn her attention back to the village. Once more embered crystal flies were released, acting as scouts as they fluttered around. "This shouldn't take long, but it is a necessity." she reassured.

[wishhero]

went to comic-con and met wanderer and xiao's eng va's. kinda forgot laila also voiced siobhan in hsr

[wishhero]

                                        chance to win your 50

   indie genshin impact & honkai star rail starring dottore, thoma, gepard and siobhan              created by rose

rules || muses

[wishhero]

The Astral Express server for Genshin and Honkai RP is looking to add new members! It is run by myself and @bringxthexfirexmultimusesx! If anyone is interested in joining, hit that heart button and I will send the invite!

[wishhero]

     that would explain then, there was so much he didn't know about, and how interesting it was for him to learn how she was able to perform a burial service at such a young age. siyang nodded his head, a rite of passage made sense, everyone had to start somewhere after all. "that's amazing," his eyes lit up, "how did you do?" did she mess up her first service? or do perfectly well? he was curious to know.

there was a moment of silence, the end of a life was always sad. many cried and there were others who didn't, but it didn't mean they didn't mourn, everyone had their own way of dealing with it. it was the same for him when his grandparents died years ago, he didn't go to the service though, it made him sad during that time. "you're right, everyone goes through with loss differently. although i'm sure for the spirits, it's different for them."

he felt eased out of this fear, the stories he was always told as a child. plus, it felt rather nice to have someone to talk to close to his age, even if he wasn't sure if they had many in common. "so…do people assume you're a teenager or something?" he could see it, yet for the blond actor, he didn't see her like that - director hu is an adult, perhaps it was just this air and maturity she had to herself.

having some childish antics here and there was still okay, even adults could feel like kids. his head nodding, though the two of them could be able to fight all these monsters, but initiating a fight wasn't always a good thing. a light-hearted chuckle emitted from his lips "you're right, i was merely joking director hu. its best we only fight back if any come seeking us out."

plus he wasn't sure if he wanted to take on the fatui, he couldn't tell if they were strong or not, he heard a few things, but yeah, best not to. thinking it was perhaps better to change it about what they both liked. "well…yeah," he laughed, he didn't mind if she was a fan of his work, he loved to meet his fans after all!

siyang laughed sheepishly, he felt somewhat flustered from this praise, he loved it and yet, he always felt like this. "thank you, i always do my best to make each character realistic as possible." a polite bow following, he wouldn't be able to do such a wonderful job if he didn't give it his all.

"well, i was always taught to be kind to others, plus…i don't have it in me to be mean to others." it was just how he was, his head nodding, wanting to listen to her poetry one day, "am i able to hear one soon?" everything about the arts fascinated him, while he couldn't do it all, he loved to hear others and watch others shine.

following behind, he made sure to stay close while observing his surroundings. he heard sounds here and there and tried to not react to them, they'd be in the play too, his character was someone who was brave and used to it. "well, the deceased wife of the detective was a simple tea merchant. she made and sold her own tea, yet her ghost only gives him cryptic clues like visions in his sleep, certain music that plays while he's in the area or even messages that only he can see."

it is rather interesting of a plot, "and the assistance from another ghost is his friend, most think this detective is weird since he 'talks to himself' without realising its the ghosts he's talking to."

Hu Tao hummed to herself. It was a simple question. For the most part. And yet forming an answer tugged at something in her. For a moment she gazed at the few will-o-wisps nearby, before she turned her attention back to Siyang. "I can't lie and say that it wasn't. The last director specifically asked that I perform his burial service. I suppose as a rite of passage, y'know?" Another pause. It wasn't often she was asked this question directly. Often it came in the form of whispered rumors.

"The end of a life is always going to be sad. But there are a lot of other emotions that cannot be ignored either. I believe a lot of it depends on context."

She couldn't help but chuckle some at Siyang's honest mistake when it came to her age. Then again she was showing the side of herself not most got to see.

"Don't worry. I mean it did take me by surprise. It's not often that I'm assumed to be older. Instead its quite the opposite," she replied in a bemused tone recalling just how her clients referred to her business tactics as being rather immature.

"B..beat them up??" the mortician choked out a small laugh. Oh wait. Were they serious? It wasn't like she couldn't stand her own ground. Along with being a spiritual guide it was her job to guard the border of life and death after all. "Aiyaaa...I'm not really one to offensively start a fight, my dear client. However, it is good to be on our toes. After all, even the Fatui have been known to scout these parts. Trust me..I know" she added with an exasperated sigh.

She was glad the topic was brought back to the performing arts again. Creative expression was a good form of escapism. "Is it that obvious that I am a fan or your work?" she teased. How could she not support someone in the arts.

"Not just the plays you put on..but all those other performances as well~"

"It's always good to research a role. I often do the same when I'm looking to inspiration to write my poetry. Who knows. Perhaps this latest play could be just that for the next verse or two," Hu Tao remarked with a grin.

"Your kindness is quite a pleasant rarity to come by." she added with a soften expression.

With that she begin to lead Siyang to the next location. The abandoned village that she had mentioned. A few embered crystal flies flew a head of them as if they were lighting a makeshift path through the eternally darkened woods. The sounds of those 'enemies' could be heard nearby, though at the same time kept their distance. There was always a sense of being watched when anyone traveled across Wuwang Hill. No matter how brave, it was always a gamble.

"Tell me," Hu Tao asked as they continued their walk. "What sort of life did the spirit of this play lead before their untimely end?"

[wishhero]

i really need to finish my character bios. & i probably need to do something for con next month (aether & xiao's eng vas are gonna be there)

and i probably should start interacting with more people

[wishhero]

     that would explain a lot, so it was something she had done for years. learning from her family members about this practice. even at such a young age she performed her first burial. "wasn't it sad?" he asked, a funeral was meant to be sad for everyone, even if she was accustomed to death, he couldn't quite imagine being in her shoes.

"ah, a little." a slight bow, he was somewhat younger than her but he didn't want to make her mad at him. "we all make mistakes after all director hu, so I don't see why anyone wouldn't even make an apology to you." he paused, gold eyes staring down for a moment then back at her, but maybe he shouldn't ask about her mistakes, not everyone liked to bring it.

his head nodding, just enemies "did you want to beat them up?" his attempt in a joke, but somewhat half-serious at the same time. he could leave them alone, as long as they didn't notice the two pyro users. at least, he was glad that there wasn't any vengeful spirits around, he couldn't imagine what would happen if there was.

how much calmer siyang felt now that he was talking with director hu, he should've known better than to believe these stories his older relatives told him as a child. they were just to scare him, after all, he was talking to an expert.

"are you a fan?" he asked, eyes lit up in anticipation, he would feel so honored if she was. if not, then he didn't mind, he just was curious to know. his head nodding, seeking her help out would help him out greatly. "well, I prefer to do research for upcoming roles, I want to portray my character as realistic as possible." he took his career seriously, so why wouldn't he want to make it so that his fans and viewers saw the role he took.

"you do, you deserve plenty of compliments! you're amazing at what you do, so i see why not." the smile remaining on his lips, wanting to stick around and observe what she did. the spirit in the play was going to move on at the end, so he needed to know so he was prepared to react the same way.

"that's fine, i don't expect it to be exciting, more…fascinating and intriguing." it made him curious too, how did this process happen? him following behind, readying his courage "yeah, that's fair." he wouldn't spoil it though, just tell her enough to get her intrigued along with a play that she'd look forward to.

"Years?" Hu Tao repeated placing her hand under her chin. "Well, my family has been in funeral profession for many generations now. Myself? I performed my first burial rites when I was around thirteen. Though I have lived at that parlor as long as I can remember. I guess you could say I've been accustomed to the idea of death~"

Not to surprisingly she spoke matter of factly despite the morbid topic. More evidence that that she could be considered an expert in spiritual hauntings. Or rather just the mannerisms of ghost themselves. "Alas, I am only twenty three. Did I truly sound that venerable to you my dear client?" she asked though her tone was a bit more casual by now.

"Ahh. I don't worry too much about getting apologies. Although it is rare that I receive them. Once in a while I'll will hear one from an undertaker for making an honest mistake."

She did wonder why Siyang had been afraid of the ghosts in the first place. Aside from the paranormally obvious. Fortunately for him the spot they had met up in Wuwang Hill was a common gathering for the more benevolent spirits. Still. "To be honest I wouldn't worry too much about running into a vengeful spirit. The only dangers in these parts have been scattered hillchurl tribes and the abyss order."

Speaking of which the darkened woods had been eerily quiet considering. Her gaze shifted keeping an eye on the obscured tree line, though at the moment nothing made any sort of presence. Not the buzzing of an electro cicin even. It was strange, and yet she didn't want to cause any sort of unnecessary alarm to her client that was still overcoming their fear.

At least she could divert the topic back to the performing arts to keep him pleasantly distracted. "Oh there is no need to worry. My lips are sealed from spilling any spoilers to your adoring fans~" Hu Tao replied placing her index finger just over the center of her mouth. It was making sense he was trying to get in character for his upcoming play. "And so you sought out Liyue's own mortician to gain inspiration for this paranormal detective. I must say I am quite honored."

A faint fluster did appear across her cheeks. Not many were so eager to observe her line of work. "Aiyaa. I really don't deserve such compliments. But if you can stick around if you like. I can't promise if anything too exciting will happen. Let's see" she paused humming to herself. She begin to set off, turning back to see if Siyang would follow or not. "There is an abandoned village in these parts that still needs attending to. Or rather just maintaining the spiritual energies there. In exchange you can tell me more about the plot. Fair enough, no?~"

[wishhero]

     how helpful it was of her to explain this easier for him, rather than being scared, siyang felt less afraid and more calm. he had no need to crouch behind her. still, he could be a little afraid still, just if there happened to be vengeful ones. those hauntings he was always told, or maybe his relatives told him just to scare him one.

his head nodded, "wow, I bet you've been dealing this for years." is that why she was so used to them now? "I understand, they're like us but since they're not living anymore, most of them just want to pass on and be peaceful, yes?"

his head nodding a few times, "don't you get any apologies director hu?" he asked, was it really strange for her to receive one? maybe she wasn't used to it. "do you think there is one now we can help?" if not, that was fine, he just wanted to see the whole process.

the actor decided it was best to ask about those, being spooked could plague his mind if he never asked. oh, so it was rare; thank morax! a relieved sigh escaped his lips "i'll keep that in mind." especially if he was going to use it as information for the upcoming play.

gold hues lit up, she certainly loved the arts as much as he did. anyone who was enthusiastic about it were good people in his books. now he couldn't wait to see what coffins the director bought from the funeral parlour for their play. he imagined they were appealing and suiting for the characters.

"ah-" siyang jumped slightly, he did spill and tell her why he was here, he couldn't really be mad at her for that tease, he really wanted that off his chest. "-yeah, just don't tell anyone I told you." otherwise it would cause chaos for him, "I can get the detective in character from observing how others do it, but, I knew to make my interactions realistic, I had to come here and at least try to interact with one."

he was glad that she'd accept them once tickets were ready, now he couldn't wait to hear her thoughts after. "thank you director hu! you've been such a big help." he beamed at her, "if you don't mind, I want to stay longer and observe you. watch what you're doing and helping a spirit move on, I won't get in the way."

Of course it was going to be okay. At most the lost and lingering spirits that the funeral director encountered were simply looking for a bit of empathy. And that could still be achieved even without having anything in common. A soft grin formed across Hu Tao's features when the Liyuian actor admitted he felt a little less scared. "You see. Once you understand more, you come to realize that those ghosts are really no different than you and I. They are simply just no longer part of our mortal realm," she remarked.

It was relieving to see Siyang finally getting it. Not that she had any doubts. But unlike most others there was an eager sense of effort to learn more despite his initial fears. Even more so she hand waved off his apology. "Ah, it's a little odd to be one the receiving end of one of those this time," she answered with a bit of a chuckle. She lost track on how many she had to give out as a result of a playful spook or even just trying to hand over a coupon. No matter ~ "It's true. It takes time to adjust. Especially when the soul isn't ready to cross the Border"

Her head did tilt slightly at his next question. "Vengeful ones? Well.. I can't lie and say no. However, it is an exceedingly rare case these days. It's important not to immediately assume that any ghost you see is out to be malicious in some way" she added in a matter of fact tone.

Ah it was delight that both her and Siyang had a penchant for the arts. Especially performing ones. "I mean how could I not offer my assistance for those who bravely take to the stage to share their talents ~" she beamed. She had her own experience when it came to her poetic free verse.

"And there it is~" she teased at the actor "The very reason you came to Wuwang Hill. A detective in a ghost story? It's no wonder you were asking how to interact with spirits," she chuckled softly. She found it endearing even.

The more he spoke about the upcoming play the more interested the funeral director became. "An unsolved murder case would be more than enough reason for a spirit to still linger. I'm very intrigued to see this play...so I'll definitely accept those tickets. And yes, I'll be sure to convince my dear consultant to attend the show, too ~"

[wishhero]

&. 𝐚𝐧 𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐝𝐢𝐚𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐮𝐞 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐭𝐬.

( this is basically just a very self indulgent list of various fluff, angst, and suggestive themed dialogue sentence starters. )

❛ i could keep you safe. they’re all afraid of me. ❜

❛ i’m trying to fix your hair, so hold still. ❜

❛ your heart is beating so fast right now. ❜

❛ promise me you’ll still be here when i wake up. ❜

❛ you’re not as bad as everyone says you are. ❜

❛ i thought you’d like some company. ❜ 

❛ clean yourself up. you're getting blood all over the place. ❜

❛ here, give this a try and tell me what you think. ❜

❛ you can kiss me, you know. ❜

❛ come back to bed. ❜

❛ you look good like this. ❜

❛ working together again, it’s just like old times. ❜

❛ how is it you always know what i need, huh? ❜

❛ you’re lucky you got away with only a scratch. ❜ 

❛ i can’t imagine losing someone like that. i’m sorry. ❜

❛ you know you can always talk to me. ❜

❛ the only one who gets to kill you, is me. ❜

❛ so, what do i owe this pleasure? ❜

❛ ah, so you aren’t heartless after all. ❜

❛ may i have this dance? ❜ 

❛ it’s okay, you can touch me. i won't break. ❜

❛ enemies make the best lovers, you know. ❜

❛ hold still. this might sting a little. ❜

❛ we can't keep doing this. ❜ 

❛ you look like you've got something to say. ❜

❛ just relax and let me take care of you. ❜

❛ thought you’d be lighter without all that blood. ❜

❛ i had it under control. you didn’t need to do that. ❜

❛ everything looks so beautiful from up here. ❜

❛ you treat all your ladies like this? ❜

❛ well? how do i look? ❜

❛ can’t sleep? ❜

❛ do you mind if i smoke? ❜

❛ i’m scared of ending up alone. ❜

❛ i don’t think i’ve ever seen you smile. ❜

❛ how long has it been since you've slept? ❜

❛ you are losing my interest, and that’s very dangerous. ❜

❛ i’d suffer hell if you’d tell me what you’d do to me tonight. ❜

❛ you look really pretty right now. ❜

❛ i’ve never cared for anyone the way i care for you. ❜

❛ i’m not wearing any underwear. thought you’d like to know. ❜

❛ just a few more stitches and you’ll be as good as new. ❜

❛ i’d say we make a pretty good team. ❜

❛ i want you to forget this ever happened. ❜

❛ i'm here for business — not pleasure. ❜

❛ if i didn't know any better, i'd say you were jealous. ❜

❛ you'd look better down on your knees. ❜

❛ fine, keep acting like you hate me. ❜

❛ kiss me again. ❜

❛ are you asking me out on a date? ❜

❛ just sit there and look pretty and let me handle this. ❜

❛ you okay? caught you staring off into space again. ❜

❛ well, i do feel better now that you're here. ❜

❛ i'm not drunk enough for this. ❜ 

❛ why is it whenever we see each other, you’re covered in blood? ❜

❛ i was wrong about you. ❜ 

❛ the first time i met you, i had no idea you'd mean this much. ❜

❛ you gonna be a good girl / boy for me? ❜

❛ i’m not afraid of you. ❜

❛ books mean more to me than people anyway. ❜

❛ i just wanted to say thank you for protecting me. ❜

❛ how about a kiss goodnight? ❜

❛ i don’t have time for distractions right now. ❜

❛ you shouldn’t be out here by yourself. ❜ 

❛ if i have to think about one more thing today, my head will explode. ❜

[wishhero]

     so she's visited the akademiya before? a little suprised, yet more impressed. not everyone has heard of them before, something must of happened if she heard of them before.

there was only much that jeht heard about inazuma, so it was nice to relax with benben, view the scenery before her. while she didn't expect someone to arrive, she welcomed it - she wasn't a threat.

it was best to mention that she nor benben would hurt her, not a good impression on a local either. oh, so she didn't need to leave then? that was rather nice of her, listening to her saying how she was part of a gang. were they like the tanit tribe?

guess not from her words, they didn't mean to cause trouble but not on purpose? weird. a small laugh emits from her lips, so she was the one to bail them out when the rest was in trouble? it made jeht remind her of someone.

"eremites aren't always friendly," that much was obvious, they weren't always viewed as the good guys in sumeru. "after my father died, i was in a tribe where my father was from," she didn't want to say too much "after i found benben, i thought of them as my family. do you think of this gang as your family too?" she asked, even though hers betrayed her, she wanted to know what the other thought of her gang.

"Eremite, huh? I know I heard that somewhere.." her voice trailed off making a thoughtful hum. "Oh, that's right during my visited to the Akademiya."

Shinobu blinked, taken back a bit by the Jeht's reassurance. Perhaps her early mannerisms were a bit too easy to read? Had she really appeared nervous. Or at least apprehensive. She did what she could to keep a straight face most of the time. "I see. Well, then if that's the case I extend those same courtesies to you"

As far as she could tell the young eremite seemed be genuine. For the time being, the deputy leader's lavender hues gazed out at the horizon in front of her. Strangely from there Inazuma did seem peaceful. Not to mention it was the rare occasion where a storm wasn't brewing over head.

Her attention was turned back toward Jeht "Nah. Don't worry you're good. Compared to the rest of the gang I'm part of, I gotta say you seem very down to earth. It's ..uh.. refreshing." Was that a little too much info she gave out? "Oh, I mean we don't mean to cause any trouble. Although it does happen.. unintendedly.." she said letting out an exhausted sigh at just even thinking about their usual hijinks.

"Let's just say its usually my job to bail them out"

[wishhero]

     oh, so even if he didn't have anything in common then it was okay? but how else would he be able to reach out to them otherwise? maybe there was other ways. his head nodding, understanding her wise words. if it wasn't as scary as he thought, then there wasn't a need to be scared?

"well, the more you speak of it, director hu, it doesn't sound scary. if I know a way to understand their message, i'll listen." siyang didn't understand how it would work, he had the expert with him after all.

a small laugh emitted from his lips, "my apologises," he bowed curtly towards her. although the blond was rather glad he was able to help out and give an idea to her as to how else she could communicate with them.

"oh I see, maybe it takes time. you know, if the spirit isn't sure what to say." it was what he thought anyway, he had a feeling it was a struggle for most who lingered on. it must be sad at the same time, just to remain without a way to move forward.

"y-you don't get any vengeful ones, do you?" ah, that was certainly a scary thought. maybe he shouldn't have asked. knowing he should refer to a better topic, one that didn't make him think on it so much.

being requested coffins by lady furina was an amazing feat! to be used as props despite it being the real thing? now that he thought about it, the director for his play was surely going to do the same thing. "oh no, certainly not! but- you don't know when they'll come in handy." he replied with a faint smile, eyes sparkling at the thought of meeting her.

"I hope we get that opportunity, director hu." his smile wider, yet one day for his? perhaps a lot sooner "well, I don't want to divulge into too much information, but, I can say you possibly will. I'm here for an upcoming play, I'm playing as a detective who can see ghosts and my character is in search for his wife's killer by following her ghost, he gets assistance from another ghost too." it wouldn't hurt to mention the basic plot of it, "i'll send you tickets before the day. oh, do you think mr. zhongli would be interested too?"

"And really that is fine if you don't have anything in common with our ghostly friends," Hu Tao remarked with a soft smirk. It was nice to see them calming down by now. Sure a few spooks here and there were all in good fun. But when it came down to it, the director truly believed that the concept of death shouldn't be poked fun at. But instead equally both mourned and celebrated. With a preference toward the latter of course.

"Often they just want to pass on a message to anyone that is willing to listen." Speaking of which she did fluster slightly when he made the comment regarding her own oversight about the use of flashing lights to communicate. "Aiyaaa..I'm not that perfect, y'know??" she exclaimed. In truth, she really did think it was a good idea. Could she trained her own embered crystal flies to giving of a flickering glow?

"To be honest, it's not an easy job to communicate with them. A lot of times they don't answer at all. At least not right away." she added crossing her arms across her chest. Really, it did get rather lonely for those spirits when it came to their own struggle to pass on. And by extent her own job as well often kept herself isolated.

So why not reach out to others? Break the usual mold that was expected from a funeral director of Liyue. No matter the topic was at least now a more delightful one!

"I know! I was just as surprised as you are now, my dear client" she smiled clasping her hands together. Sure the request for coffins other than for burial purposes was rather strange, but how could she refuse? "It was such a creative idea! Of course I allowed her to keep those props. Like I always said death is very unpredictable.... Oh.. but I don't mean in the sense that I think Lady Furina should be expecting one anytime soon ~"

Oh. She was indeed curious on how that horror played turned out. "Ahh, you and me both. I would have loved to see any of her plays. I'm just fortunate that I was asked to help with one in the first place. You know, perhaps one day I shall be providing props to one of your shows~"

[wishhero]

won't be on tomorrow! attending the op orchestra

[wishhero]

     guess it could be accounted for being in his head? or the stories he was told as a child got to him, it wasn't that bad now that he thought about it, and with the director here...he felt rather safe.

"you're right," siyang paused as he thought more about it. how can someone pass on if they have business left? it was rather sad the more he thought about it "i may not have anything to relate to." he had a few deceased relatives too, but what if one of them was a relative? yeah, helping out somehow was for the best.

yet the thought of possession didn't exactly occur to him either, not something he thought of, at the same time, if it was used for good then it would be alright. he was in good hands!

"ah, you didn't think of this before?" eyes blinked a few times, it was a great idea too, though he was aware not everyone knew morse code. his head nodding with more information being brought out to him, so the burning crystal flies help the souls to pass on in one way or another, fascinating!

then the fact she said that some ghosts speak, like...did they still have their voice? oh, more by showing their reply, her question about what would he do, "i'd do the same thing." being unable to speak wasn't easy, but finding a way to get the message across was rather challenging, yet he thought perhaps these souls made it easy to be understood.

"i see," he muttered to himself while pondering on the script he had at home. maybe he could talk to the director about changing some parts? they couldn't have a ghost always talk.

"you had someone so famous come all the way from fontaine?" he exclaimed softly, lady furina herself? was she so lucky! a little envious too he may add, he wanted to ask all sorts of what she was like, but, he knew he shouldn't.

"still, having coffins as stage props makes a play realistic. what i wouldn't do to see a play she directed." he only heard stories about her being the hydro archon, how she enjoyed watching plays, while he never seen a fontanian play, he'd certainly love to go.

It really was best to not draw too much attention to the noises. So she did what she could to keep the topic focused on the more docile will-o-wisps that were nearby. And by the extension the play she was still curious about. The latter she still planned to see as soon as it was released to the public. How could the funeral director not show her support for the arts when she partook in them herself from time to time?

A soft hummed smile was made upon hearing Siyang's answer. "You're getting it now. One of the best ways to communicate with a spirit is to find ways you can relate to them. Nothing wrong with showing a bit of empathy, even to a ghost~"

In all honesty Hu Tao was generally surprised that he hadn't expressed fear about the possibility of being possessed by a malicious spirt. A common fear among her other clients that ventured into haunted places such as Wuwang Hill. No, this just seemed to be a generalized fear of the unknown. Or rather just simply the ghosts themselves.

"Actually the flashing lights is a great idea!" she exclaimed before lightly covering over her mouth with her hand. Ah, she shouldn't get too loud around there. She paused to be sure she hadn't attracted any unwanted attention. Silence. That was good, right?

A 'ahem' elicited from her as she lowered her hand. "It is the very same reason I send out these burning crystal flies. Not only do they guide lost souls, but they follow them around as well. So sometimes they lead them to objects or places that have meant something to them."

Siyang was definitely on the right track with the spirit communication. "Very few ghosts actually do speak. Instead They often reply and show us things by touch and movement. If you couldn't speak what would you do to get other's attention? Or how would you express your feelings about something~"

She figured these were the sort of things that one would think about even when it came to acting in a play. There was certainly more than just the speaking parts. A considering such..

"Y'know, the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor was once asked to help Lady Furina with a horror film. During the last Lantern Rite, she had visited us with the intent of purchasing some coffins to be used as stage props. Aiyaaa. To think they would be used for something other than being a final resting place for our clients," she added with a small chuckle.

Right. Maybe if she spoke about her own experiences he could reveal more of the mystery on why he was in Wuwang Hill in the first place.

[wishhero]

     she wasn't offended when the other said she took her spot, she could accept that. perhaps it was best to not stay for too long and leave soon as possible, that is, if the stranger wanted to be alone rather than have a stranger and a machine as company.

"that is correct, i'm what others call an eremite." not so much now since everyone in the tanit tribe was gone, it was best not to bring up details. she didn't want to scare the other away "don't worry, i won't hurt you, i don't have any wish to - neither does benben."

keeping herself seated, jeht remained still while staring at the scenery "you can tell me if you need me to go, i don't want to keep this space to myself." there was this feeling as if she was taking it all, even if the local didn't mean what she said, she knew when it should be time to leave.

Oh? She was being invited to sit next to them? Instinctively Shinobu hesitated at first. It was indeed a kind offer. But she was surprised that the Eremite didn't seem to be intimidated by her. A quiet hum was made as she finally agreed to accept the gesture taking a seat upon the grassy cliff side.

She seemed relieved that there was no indication the young woman wanted to start a fight. Despite her own reputation the deputy leader preferred to keep out of them. But alas she tended to have a reactionary mood. Especially when there were those who tested her patience.

This time it felt different. There was a sense of needed peacefulness at this spot. At 'her' spot. Or so...

"Ah. I mean admittedly? This is a spot I would visit a lot. Can't help but feel a sense of ownership," she paused realizing how that may have sounded. Her brows furrowed some. "More like belonging." Yeah that seemed to be a more reliable description.

An eyebrow quirked when she heard that Jeht was seeking a place to be away from home "Heh, its sounding like we both have something in common there. Don't worry I won't ask for much details. I know how annoying those questions can get. But if I had to take a wild guess... based on your attire..you are from Sumeru, right?"