Seven Months in Heaven [Zhongchi/Tartali]

Chapter 18 - Epilogue

2nd Day, 3rd Month

Hey xiansheng,

Guess who? I arrived in Snezhnaya yesterday as planned and was briefed on the Abyss Order forces we're supposed to be clearing out today. It's a BIG domain, bigger than most I've seen before - I can't wait to get in there and go a few rounds with their leaders.

The researchers coming with us are guessing it'll take them about a week to get all the intel they need. I'd like to visit my family while I'm here, so I might stay an extra week or two after my mission's done and take a trip to Morepesok. I need to speak with my parents about something important, and Tonia's been bugging me to tell her all about you. Actually they all really want to meet you someday!

It's good to be back in Snezhnaya - Liyue's great and all, but there's nothing like the air here... I know you'd love it, you have to come with me next time. We did promise to travel together, and a promise is a promise – hope you haven't forgotten it now!

How's life in Liyue? Missing me already, I bet! Make sure you're not pestering Hu Tao for mora the entire time I'm gone. Remember: the pouch is in the hallway, so don't forget to pick it up before you leave!

See you soon!

Yours,

Ajax

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7th Day, 3rd Month

Hello Ajax,

It is good to hear you've arrived safely. There have been various reports of unfavourable weather around Snezhnaya's borders, which was cause for some concern. Your letter eases my worries, and it brings me comfort to receive words written by your hand. Please stay safe while executing your mission. You know as well as I the treachery the Abyss Order will not hesitate to utilise should they find themselves under threat.

Take all the time you need with your family; there is no need to rush for my sake. After all, we do have a lifetime together, should you wish it, and a few weeks is but a drop in the ocean of time.

Life in Liyue is pleasant as always, and brings with it plenty of opportunity for leisure. Yesterday I took some time to catch up with a number of old friends. Similarly to your family, they are quite curious to meet you. Although they might not be the sort of people you might usually acquaint yourself with, I am certain that they would enjoy your company as much as I do, should they be given the opportunity to get to know you.

Rest assured I have not been 'pestering' Hu Tao; her financial assistance is offered quite freely in my times of need.

Please be aware the above statement is made in jest. In truth, I have successfully remembered the mora you kindly left for my use and Hu Tao's assistance has not been necessary.

Of course I do miss you greatly, and await the day when my life is once again filled with your presence.

With my fullest affection,

Zhongli

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12th Day, 3rd Month

Hey xiansheng,

Good news! My mission finished up today, so I'll be heading back to Morepesok for a week, and then I'll be returning to Liyue. Pretty good timing, huh? It'll leave us plenty of time to renew my permit once I get back.