A young boy, whose family was being torn apart, as well as suffering from daily mental and physical injuries, only found a fragment of happiness in the times he spent playing games alongside his relatives and what little friends that he had.
Unfort...
(For his period of time in Liyue, Nate will be called Tutela (Guardian/Protector) .
.
. "Oya, oya! Welcome to Wangsheng Funeral Parlor!"
A bubbly yet welcoming voice emitted from the other side of the door, supposedly belonged to one of the Parlor's employees, or employer. Which, in this scenario, is the latter option.
"We're having a special discount at the moment! Buy one coffin, get one free!" The girl continued, her walnut-colored twintails naturally swaying in the wind as she speaks. Her crimson pupils show cheerfulness, but also expectations. Being a funeral parlor director isn't always rainbow and sunshines, she can confirm it from experience.
"Greetings, Director Hu. Your offer is very tempting indeed, but we already have an appointment. With your consultant, to be precise. I think you can predict who we are." Someone strictly said, his already slow yet steadfast pace came to a halt right in front of the Liyue native woman.
The flower-like pupils in her eyes widened, pure astonishment was bestowed upon her features.
"Oh! You guys are Mr. Zhongli's friends! I was wondering when you would show up! Tutela, right? Also Venti and... who is this?" Hu Tao pointed a finger towards Makoto, who had been wearing her cloak and kitsune mask ever since they came to Liyue Harbor. Disguising was slightly applied to Nate, who would avoid stating any of his names unless it's obligatory, and only then will he use something to get it over with. His jet-black hair remains the same, though now his irises reverted back to their original color - crimson red, in all of its glory. He has a mask laying dormant in his bag, one that bears similarities to those of Treasure Hoarders, which he might use when he wants to conceal himself.
Oops! This image does not follow our content guidelines. To continue publishing, please remove it or upload a different image.
(Closest visualization I could get.)
"I am Makoto. Pleased to meet you, Director Hu Tao." The violet-haired woman smiled at the young brunette, showing zero hostility unlike her twin sister, Venti can confirm that with no hesitation.
"Nice to meet you too! Come this way, Mr. Zhongli is waiting." Hu Tao's words came with her cheerful grin, unexpected of someone who ran a morgue. Yet, Tutela doesn't pry a word. As they follow her deeper into the building's interior, soon came into their vision was a relatively young man, casually brewing a fresh pot of tea for his guests.
"Old man! Your guests are here!" The Funeral Director's shout was loud, almost making Zhongli drop his precious ceremonial tea set. Feeling a bit embarrassed, he loudly coughed, signaling for Hu Tao to leave him be. Fortunately, she understands his signal, and left after muttering about how annoying Zhongli could be.
"Blockhead! How's things? We hadn't reconciled for half a millennial!" Venti exclaimed, his grin refuses to falter while speaking.
"Gone well, Barbatos. But I must say, I didn't take into consideration that you will appear as well, Baal. Or should I call you 'Makoto'?" Zhongli replied, his golden eyes switched their gaze to the ex-Electro Archon, merely sipping her tea.
