Carried in by the Gentle Wind

CHAPTER 3

     Kazuha woke from his slumber, his earbuds still jammed in his ears. Huh... he must have fallen asleep while listening to Stellis' last album. Could anyone really blame him though? Her voice was really comforting, and honestly, she had some of the best vocal chords in Teyvat. She wasn't a part of the TTF (Teyvat's Top Favourites) for no reason, that's for sure. Without realizing it, he started humming one of her more lesser known songs, as he went to go start his day. He had to admit, closing down the business was a lot more freeing than he expected. He always knew that such things were never really something he could get into. His parents were never really there to force him along either, since well, one died before he could ever meet her, and the other had no desire in making his son miserable.

     Since closing down the business, Kazuha sold his old house and possessions, using some of the money to find himself a more cozy home, and the rest as quiet donations to those who might need it. The only thing he brought along was his prized guitar, a little worn, but as comforting as an old friend. He knew he had a passion for writing poems and songs, a general passion for music. So he began to slowly build himself a reputation, managing to sell a few of his lyrics and songs. It wasn't really rewarding in terms of pay, but Kazuha very much preferred this life to his old one.

     He grabbed his bedsheets, and with a flick of his wrist, smoothed out all the wrinkles and creases. After straightening out the pillows, Kazuha took a sweeping glance at the rest of the room. Bed's made, desk's clean... chair tucked in.. okay. Satisfied, he left the room, closing the door behind him. 

     Yawning, he fixed himself a proper sandwich, the kind with perfectly toasted, buttered bread. Maybe he was a bit of a perfectionist, yes, but it wasn't too extreme. Or, at least he was convinced it wasn't too abnormal. Before he was even able to swallow his first bite, Kazuha was unfortunately interrupted by a phone call. By an unknown caller at that. Hurriedly trying to down his food, he swallowed hard and answered the phone, grimacing. 

     ".... Hello?" He was answered by a very cheerful voice. 

     "Hi! Am I speaking with 'Kaede'?" Kazuha blinked. That was his stage name. 

     "Yes, that would be me." 

     "Oh, wonderful! I'm Venti, from Barbatos Entertainment. Hey, maybe you've heard of us?" Venti chuckled, as Kazuha pulled his phone away from his ear, staring at the number in disbelief. 'Maybe' I've heard of you? Who are you kidding, that's one of the biggest companies out there! Was this a spam call? 

     "Er, yes. I've heard of you.. Is there a reason why you're calling?" 

     "Mhm! I was just calling to see whether or not you'd like to sign a contract with us and one of our singers. We really like your songs." This was a little hard for Kazuha to take. 

     "I'm sorry, I-"

     As if sensing Kazuha's skeptisicm, Venti quickly cut him short.

     "Ah ah, don't worry young sir! I don't mean to scam you! Please, I won't ask of anything of you over phone. All I ask is that if you're even the slightest bit interested, come to the Uyuu restaurant this Friday. I will be waiting for you with the details of our could-be contract in the private room on the second floor. If not... well I guess I'll have to drink away my sadness all alone..."

     Kazuha sighed, as a bit of a relief washed over him. At least no one was forcing him to do anything, though he could definitely sense the guilt-tripping. "Alright."

     Venti let out an inaudible puff of air, glad that he was able to do a bit convincing. Well, at least he hoped he did. "Ah, thank you for the time! Have a g'day!"