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Who ⬤ Artemy Burakh and you!
What ⬤ All around the place.
When ⬤ Throughout the month.
Where ⬤ Lots of places.
Content Warnings ⬤ Drug use. Will add as needed.

i. dumpster diving;

[ Despite not having to struggle so much for coin and food, Artemy still can be found buried halfway in garbage cans throughout the city. He digs around to see if there is anything particularly useful in the trash or even if there's half-eaten or thrown away scraps to eat.

Pulling himself free, he does not seem at all embarrassed or troubled to have been caught. Instead, he hesitantly holds out what he's found. The hesitation is that he isn't sure he wants to give it up, but he also finds no worth in being too greedy. ]

Would you like some?

ii. high definition;

[ He has tested out his own medication on himself so it doesn't seem strange to him that others request help in the same manner.

If it will benefit the population in some way, he is willing. Of course, he wonders how effective the drugs can be to someone who is relatively healthy. Relatively being the key term.

He is still recovering from twelve-days of exhaustion, starvation, dehydration, and a wide variety of issues. So, actually, maybe these drugs are good to try on him.

'Course he ends up feeling more like he has downed multiple bottles of twyrine. His senses both feel deadened and awakened; he feels like he can actually hear the city around him. It leaves him speechless that to come with the awareness that the city is just as alive as his town once was. ]

It's calling.

[ It's what he says as he staggers around the streets. ]

The city is calling.

iii. kappa kappa;

All right!

[ It is what is heard before his hand snaps out to grab the back of the shirt of someone sneaking around the tunnels. ]

What are you doing here?

[ Artemy draws himself up to his full height; his arms cross as he stares at the person with a look of absolute disappointment. Didn't the Sutoku Alliance say that this area is closed off? ]

A group asks to be left alone and you have to come bother them? Where are your senses?

iv. wildcard;

[ Throw whatever. I don't mind. If you want to check with anything, you can PM me. No worries. ]

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[ It most definitely is a no now, not solely due to the fact that the vegetable has been thoroughly consumed but if he thought that indescribable mush of a carrot-based dish his mother once prepared was awful then — this well — more than ill, he feels rather queasy.

Anything else. Perhaps, in spite of the origin would have been easier to witness being eaten. But what's done is done now, yet the lingering effects remain. ]

A moment, please.

[ Enough time to compose himself, not to prepare for his first excursion into a trashcan, which he realizes his words could have been mistaken for. He'll correct that. A motion with his hand gesturing refusal of the offer. ]

I'm quite all right, I have no need to search through there. But are you in need of assistance, may I offer to pay for a meal?

[ His lips press into a thin line; he steps forward. He squints -- eyes narrowing in a manner that looks dangerous as he draws nearer.

Artemy notes that the young man looks a little unwell; he can't help but worry. There is regret that starts to bleed its way into his expression, like he shouldn't have eaten that carrot. No matter how hungry he may have been, it would have been better to share.

He gives him a look that asks, "Are you sure?" when he says that he's all right. Artemy mistakes the dismissal of eating from the trashcan as a response to his long stares and quiet concern over his physical health. ]

I couldn't take your coin without offering something in return.

[ He feels he has already taken a lot without asking already. Not from the person in front of him, but from the youkai that have accepted him into their group. Certainly, he is in the bottom-tier of status and power, but that doesn't mean the warmth he feels from them isn't real or welcomed. ]

We all only have so much. [ A beat. ] So, what would you like?

[ A seemingly menacing approach, Xingqiu stands his ground, fearless at heart, and more importantly, he won't judge mannerism. People come in many forms, with many stories. And here is one person who seems unwilling to accept his aid. Is it pride? Is it some sense of duty as an adult?

Words are revealing. And yet. The pause isn't long enough for him to even begin to insist that he can provide help. What he hears next is a bit confusing. ]

From the trashcan?

[ For once the typically chatty and sociable Xingqiu can only stare at the man before him in dismay. He couldn't possibly think he would want something out from in there, and from previous observation, he had been made to believe there was nothing left. But mostly he doesn't understand why had his offer for a meal been turned around on him? He brings a hand up to his forehead, a sigh follows. ]

My apologies, that was silly of me to say. Obviously not from in there. But please, I do insist. You're the one most in need.

No, there's nothing there.

[ He digs around in his pockets to take out what food that he has acquired from various other trash cans. There are obvious stains -- or stains that are now a little more obvious -- to his clothes from old food having seeped through the material. ]

If you're willing, I guess I can't argue too much. [ Artemy pulls his hands free from his pockets. The tips of his fingers have a little food material on it. ] I know how people can be about arguing when it comes to food.

I'll be sure to repay this kindness, then.

[ Beyond appearing unkempt and giving an unappealing air, the food stains in the simplest of terms are disgusting. A whole filthy ensemble worn, yet once the stains are noted he makes it a point not to stare. He is polite enough to mind himself and make no form of disparaging comment. This poor man, Xingqiu has no idea the situation he may be in there is room for him to judge. ]

No, please there is no need for you to reciprocate the gesture, while we have all found ourselves here I think it best we lend aid to one another. So I cannot ignore your plight.

Please, come with me.

[ A member of the Sutoku Alliance, he is familiar with the many fast-food chains of their territory. No, he doesn't particularly lean towards their offerings but there is a chain that offers some affordable baked treats. ]

I suppose now would be a good time as any to introduce myself. I am Xingqiu, disciple of the Guhua Clan. [ Wow. That's the first time ever he has introduced himself under that title. ]

My plight?

[ Artemy can't help but repeat those words back with mild confusion. His eyebrows furrowing as he follows after the young man. He does, at least, know better than to argue with those younger than himself, especially if what the person wants to do is "good." ]

Guhau Clan? [ Again, he repeats it. That isn't a clan that he has heard of, but he has only just come to be in Hell. ] I'm Artemy Burakh, member of the Sutoku Alliance. [ He thinks that is how he should introduce himself.

A pause chases after his words before he asks: ] What does it mean to be a disciple?

[ Assured that he is being followed Xingqiu continues on, although hearing his own words echoed leave him further puzzled because was that truly necessary? The first instance doesn't cause him to turn his head, but rather he feels his own confusion rising. Did this man not perceive the situation he was in? Forced to search for scraps through others' refuse.

He ate a carrot! A garbage carrot!

Finally, he glances back at the echo of the clan's name. That was his own mistake, it seems here he is the minority, even back in Liyue (or rather Teyvat as a whole) a sect of martial arts on the decline isn't often on people's lips. ]

Right, let me explain. To be a disciple in the simplest of terms means to be a pupil. One who is still on the path of knowledge.

But of course, it would have been best if I introduced myself in the same manner as you have. It would seem we're both a part of the same alliance. Let me amend my introduction. I am Xingqiu of Sutoku.

Right. It seems like I worded my question wrong. [ And really, he can't blame Xingqiu for misunderstanding him when he did not elaborate on what he meant. ] What does it mean to be a disciple of your clan?

It's a path of knowledge, but what are you studying?

[ Artemy thinks that he explained himself significantly better. Honestly, he feels just a little embarrassed that he did not state himself properly before. His eyes do widen at hearing that the young man is also part of his new faction. ]

I see. [ He gives a quick nod. ] I see. [ Pausing, he starts to look through his pockets. ] No, I suppose I can't convince you to trade even briefly with me. [ The trust is a little too low between them? Or he need prove himself capable before he can offer anything to barter. ]

It's a custom from home. A way to get to know one another as we are now connected.

[ Misunderstandings are bound to happen, with all the souls that gather at a single point from many lands (even some unknown to him), it's expected for confusion to arise. In this case, the lack of specifics to the inquiry without adequate wordage caused him to interpret the question wrongly. Thankfully, Xingqiu shows patience, he is willing to share his knowledge of the Guhua Clan, though, again he reminds himself of its present state.

So all the while leading the path to the many fine, or rather, affordable, dining venues of Sutoku he would speak. ]

My apologies for the misunderstanding, then allow me to tell you what is our trade. The Guhua Clan is a school of martial arts, the skill of the sword and polearm are taught. [ And some other odds and ends, naturally he learned it all.

Now once again he hears the offer of a trade. To be equal, and this time he finds he has no other choice but to relent. Recompensating kindness (though he doesn't seek anything in return), and it's tradition. Finally, Xingqiu nods once, accepting. ]

Very well, if it's a custom of your home. But first, let's content ourselves with a meal. [ With that he opens the door to the selected restaurant. Of course, it has to be a Panera. ]

Martial arts, huh. I don't know much about that, myself.

[ He can't help but look mildly surprised at that comment. When Xingqiu said he was a disciple, he thought it might be related to some branch of medicine. It seems like their understanding is much different from one another. But somehow, he smiles at that since it means he can learn more about his kin. ]

Thank you for being willing to carry through with it. [ He does tip his head, thankful that he's all right with going along with his town's custom. It is, as he said, a means to get to know one another. A person should not take more than what they are given, but giving more than one is due is good for the whole. ]

What an establishment. [ Artemy rubs his hands down his sides, cleaning his hands off, as he has not ever been in such a well-lit and taken care of place. ]

[ Leading the way to the relatively short line (as opposed to the mile-long stretch that is typically found at a Starbucks, which is why he's never set foot inside that establishment) Xingqiu is already scanning the menu even if he has practically memorized it by now. ]

Well, in terms of martial arts, then I only know the tutelage of the Guhua Clan. Each school has its own methodology, and core beliefs that are incorporated into their teachings.

[ As gratitude is expressed with actions accompanyings words, Xingqiu finds himself bowing his head in suit. Following customs, honoring tradition is something he comprehends the importance of, and from all signs, it is significant to Artemy. ]

Now what draws your attention, the selection is varied, from meals to snacks. This place truly offers quite a variety. Anything you want, again, my treat.

I hope you will be willing to tell me of some of your clan's beliefs.

[ Artemy pauses to stare at the impressive menu. His eyes looking over every item; he feels shock run through him at just how much food that they actually have in the establishment. But he is already present, if he makes a fuss it would only cause embarrassment to the person who brought him. ]

A bread bowl? A bread bowl. [ He points at the item in question. His eyes become round and filled with a little bit of wonder. Who wouldn't want something like that? ]

Something like that will hold me down for hours. [ This is said with a great amount of awe. ]

Yes, of course, but please don't get your hopes up. Not to imply the ideals aren't noble, but rather the current state of the Guhua Clan. For years now it's been in decline.

[ But never mind that! Bread bowls. Actually, that's not the reaction he expected to see, completely excitement and curiosity filling a grown man's eyes. It's amusing, he smiles, and he knows exactly what to order for Artemy. ]

Well, then it's a bread bowl. You just have to decide on the soup you want. They've got a few to offer. As for me... [ His attention has been captured by a cinnamon roll within the display case. ]

Even so...

[ Artemy trails off; even if the present is on the decline, it does not change the beauty of what started it.

But yes, enough about that! His eyes return to the round, wide excitement at the idea that he could have soup in the bowls as well. Honestly, if he would have been given just a bowl of bread, he would have dug into it without knowing it could be filled. ]

Broccoli and cheddar seems like a good idea. [ Mm. His decision made on the soup, before pausing to look toward the roll that seems to have caught the attention of his companion. ] A good choice for you, as well.

[ Even so... A nod of comprehension offered, he knows, in spite of the current state of affairs involving the Guhua Clan, Xingqiu would never shy away from his association with that sect of martial arts. In most cases anyway, and it's not embarrassment of any sort that leads to secrecy just a difference in ideals within his own family.

Choices made from the menu, he nods again, a smile content with his choice. These baked delicacies were new to him, only introduced during his stay here, but much enjoyed. ]

A snack will suffice for me.

[ That said, the order is made, and then it's time for the wait. But it's a good point to find a table. Which he doesn't hesitate to lead Artemy to. ] Now about that exchange...

All right.

[ There is an argument just beneath his agreement, but he decides to forego it. Rather he doesn't think it's right to convince the person paying for him to spend more money, even if it is money on themselves.

Artemy follows along to the table; he rubs his hands together nervously. Looking around the establishment, he can't help but find it to be one of the fanciest places that he has ever been allowed into since coming to this world. But he pulls himself out of his awe at the half-spoken question from Xingqiu. ]

Yes. [ He pauses to dig through his pockets. He produces a single broken piece of chalk. Looking it over carefully, he gives a firm nod before placing it on the table. ]

This holds in it... my determination. [ A small nod. ] I carried it with me through the last of the days before I came here. Please take it with you... I hope it will give you some strength.

[ He has to live the dream sometime, and that means a sweet baked treat in favor of an actual meal. He can get back on track with keeping a healthy diet later, for dinner that is. He isn't so foolish or reckless as to neglect himself entirely. Actually at all.

At the table, he isn't privy to the awe felt by the man sitting across from him. While this chain is clearly a step up from a McDonald's or a Starbucks, it certainly isn't the fanciest place he has had the fortune of eating a meal at but he doesn't judge based on appearance. Good food is good food and compared to most of the other fast-food joints this is probably the better option.

When he mentioned the exchange, he had in mind asking the Artemy to bestow upon him some skill from his homeland. He is always willing to learn new things, so the chalk on the table is a complete surprise. Gingerly he reaches out to take it. ]

Your determination. Your aspirations...? [ He knows of such things, of objects that people place their hopes on or feel that their ambitions have been recognized, but that's in terms of a higher force. He looks at the piece of chalk in his hand before he smiles warmly. If it meant so much to Artemy then he would keep it safe, or if need be put it to good use. ]

Thank you, this is a bit embarrassing I'll admit that you are willing to part with something that has such a deep meaning to you. I'll keep it safe.

No, my aspirations are still my own. [ He lifts his fist to beat it lightly against his chest, about where his heart is. ] That is my determination. The emotion that fueled me to keep going despite all that happened in those days.

[ Artemy drops his hands on the table; he interlaces his fingers. Shaking his head, he dismisses the idea of being willing to part with something of such deep meaning. It has it, yes, but the two of them are -- ]

We are as brothers. What is mine is yours. What I can give you, I will. What you will trade with me, I will take and cherish just as much as you will cherish what I give.

[ This is what family does; they are part of the same faction and he will take that incredibly seriously. ]

The kindness that you've already shown me... there's no reason to be embarrassed that I wish to repay it as soon as I can.

I apologize for making that presumption. Of course, everyone holds their own aspirations, though... [ He shakes his head, it's easy to understand sometimes people share their hopes or pass them on when they're unable to continue forward themselves. That's not the case here. So the chalk in his hand is held tightly, determination is just as important as ambition, it is what sees it through.

So Xingqiu cannot take such a gift lightly.

The mention of such a close-knit bond reminds him of tales from the past, the Guhua Brotherhood of old, if only he had been alive back during their heydays, at its peak, when each member traveled through the land bringing aid to those in need. That aspect hasn't changed, even during this time of its decline, but he is also determined to reinvigorate the clan. Although there was some disappointment at what he initially discovered was left of the clan he still took to learning. ]

But really there was no need for any form of repayment. I am not saying I don't appreciate the gesture but bestowing kindness on to others doesn't need to be rewarded, it should be the natural way people act, and everyone should help one another. However, I am not so foolhardy to lack awareness. I know most people prefer to turn a blind eye to those in need... but not everyone.

It's all right. It is not a wrong thing to think.

[ He dismisses the need for apology. The young man has been nothing but courteous and patient with him; if he did not show the same, he would be giving back less than what he has already been given.

Artemy nods along to what Xingqiu says. His expression is one of understanding; he feels the same way about when he would do things for others and they want to give something back. A frown pulls his mouth down as he thinks of what he wants to say next. He doesn't find fault in what is being said, but the feelings behind it are more than just repayment. ]

What you said is right. I don't find any argument worth having in it, but ... when someone does something for another, it isn't just wanting to reward the kindness given to them. It is also to give something back to them. [ He taps the table, like where he put the chalk. ] I like to believe with everything we give to one another, we take something from them that they were willing to part with and make it our own.

Those are the gifts and curses that we carry, and it binds us all closer to one another. [ He breathes in. ] To only give and not receive is to make things unbalanced. To give more is good, but don't give so much that you lose pieces of yourself you did not want someone else to carry.

[ Give him a moment to parse through those words. He understands wanting to express gratitude, but he can also see that beyond reward imparting something of oneself may have its own merits. It doesn't necessarily have to be physical, he comprehends that the chalk isn't a gift but rather it symbolizes Artemy's determination. Yes, to give him strength, become unwavering in the face of adversary, to reach his own goals.

It was not the Adeptus Guhua who so long ago founded the brotherhood that would eventually decline to become the Guhua clan but rather someone whom he showed great kindness. It was that person bestowed with compassion who founded the school of martial arts, in days past, in those times the practitioners traveled through Liyue performing chivalrous deeds. ]

I see. I believe I have a better grasp of what you're saying.

It's not gratitude alone, rather it's a bond, something akin to a pact between two people.

Therefore one must also consider not being overly generous, not alone due to loss, but what is imparted must not become a burden upon someone else. That is also being good, doing good. The essence behind the aid rendered, the sentiments, just passing forward the notion to help others. Everyone has their own path towards this.

You understand well, brother.

[ Artemy dips his head in a few quick nods. He appreciates that Xingqiu is willing to listen to him on this matter. Even more so, he is pleased the young man wants to hear some of his culture, and carry out some of the traditions and rituals that they have.

As far as from home as he is, he will always carry his town and brethren with him; he is just touched that others are willing to carry a piece of them, as well. ]

Yes, we are all moving forwards on our own paths. [ A pause. ] But we are all connected. The Lines draw us together. There is no action that is done that will not affect us in some small way on our path. That, too, is why we must be careful of what we leave behind and to whom.

[ Artemy pauses, again. ] But I do not think anything I leave with you will do anything but good. I believe in you that much, brother, and will do my most for you from now until the end.

[ Paths weren't always solitary, sometimes there was company following the same trail, and other times they crossed, intersected, even became parallel. He understands that bonds, even single interactions can be life-altering. Just one event can change the course of a person's life. From that moment he picked up that first book which entailed a hero's courageous journey then onward through a slew of martial art novels from a young age he knew what he would stand for.

His conviction wavered at times, he could have easily become misguided and all aspirations of his youth could have been lost in a sea of responsibility. Age has a way of wearing at hopes, dreams. But that single moment when that vision came to him. Then he could see clearly how he should wield his sword. There was a guiding compass for him now ever bright, he had no choice, he would follow closely the chivalric code. ]

Taking everything we do, and everyone into consideration.

I suppose in my case, I've been fortunate to live a privileged life but because of that, I am in a position to help others... [ He certainly was in Liyue, it's a little more difficult now and he has to tread carefully at times, but his ideals have not changed. He will still help anyone in need. ] I won't betray the trust you have placed in me. I can assure you of that.

Yes.

[ There is genuine warmth in his voice; he is more than grateful that Xingqiu understands what he is saying and taking it to heart. This is not the first time that this has happened in the conversation, but he shows his full gratitude each and every time -- in his voice, in the softening his usually stern expression. ]

I know that you will not. [ Artemy gives a sharp nod. ] There is no need for assurances between family. [ He ignores if he had done the same earlier; the two of them have come to understand one another and are now as kin. ]

I know my brother to be a good man, and that is all I need ever know.

[ The genuine tone warms him, it feels like unconditional belief in his character the same he had for so long bestowed upon his closest friend. He believes in Chongyun, though the boy may stumble and make mistakes, there was a path for everyone to take. Xingqiu knows his way, Chongyun would find his own. ]

It's strange. I don't often hear such encouraging words. I mean, it's not that I am in need of motivation...

[ He is mostly self-reliant, however, there is something pleasing about the words he hears. Seldom do his own personal endeavors, aspiration, and interest are encouraged by his family in Liyue. But he understands, everyone grows up, but just as long as he could find small moments of satisfaction. But his days of favoring rabbits have passed. ]

Oh. You should finish your soup. It's probably gotten cold now... sorry.

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pathofsacrifice - 2022-05-09 04:10 (UTC) - Expand

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rainswords - 2022-05-10 14:58 (UTC) - Expand

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i saw your prev message 🥺 it was soooo nice

(holds close)

♥♥♥

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