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[outofoffice]

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[outofoffice]

. . . You have a keen eye for equivalent contracts. So I'm sure you realize there's nothing I can ask in return that's of equal value.

[leaveofabsence]

You are correct. There is nothing equivalent that you can give me in return. Nor would I want that from you.

But it is pressing that I find someone to keep it. So I am willing to be more lenient with the terms than under normal circumstances. As long as we both agree to them.

[outofoffice]

. . .

[ Holding his hand out for the gnosis. ]

[leaveofabsence]

I would not have this be completely one-sided.

That is not a contract at all.

[outofoffice]

Then I'll ask for this:

Your forgiveness should I fail to protect you in this place. Perhaps even if my team were to play on yours and I couldn't prevent it.

I normally would never request something so selfish, but this seems like a special case.

1/2

[leaveofabsence]

[ He was not expecting that.

Though, in all honesty, he didn't know what he should expect. The fact that the God of Freedom was even entering into a contract (even should it only be the length of their stay here) was already outside of his expectations (though not his hopes). ]

[leaveofabsence]

You ask for things that are already yours.

. . .

No longer are we the guiding forces within our nations. And our units are much more fractured in their responsibilities and interests than Liyue and Mondstadt ever were. I did not expect your protection nor can I offer you any in return.

But.

If that will put your mind at ease. If you will allow yourself that much selfishness.

Then I agree to those terms.

[outofoffice]

[ It does put his mind at ease.

What more can he hope for in this place? ]

Okay.

Then it sounds like we have an agreement.

[leaveofabsence]

Yes. I believe we have.

[ And he places the gnosis into Venti's outstretched hand. ]

[outofoffice]

[ He cradles it in his hands carefully, like he worries it might shatter between his fingers.

Guess he has a new worst nightmare! ]

Hmmm . . . I guess this is the most I can do for you here, isn't it?

I'm at least grateful for that, and your trust.

[leaveofabsence]

[ Zhongli pauses, a slight shiver going down his spine as Venti's fingers curl carefully around the gnosis.

But then he straightens back to perfect posture, giving the bard his full attention. ]

It is one of the things you can do for me here.

And I would not ask for more given our current situation.

[outofoffice]

And yet I still find myself curious what these other possibilities are.

[leaveofabsence]

Perhaps you will discover them in time then.

But. This is enough of a heavy burden for one day, don't you agree? I know you will not take this task I've asked of you lightly.

[outofoffice]

Well~

It does remind me that I have a favor to ask! A proposal, if you will.

[leaveofabsence]

. . .

You could have asked it as part of the contract.

[outofoffice]

[ Flaps a hand! ]

No need for anything so formal!

It's just, with all these lovely guest stars here, and other circumstances, ahh . . .

[ A pause.




There is no abridged way to explain this. So, smiling brightly: ]

What do you think about spending some more time together? Ehe, trick question, I know you're sooo excited!

[leaveofabsence]

You have my company if you ask it of me, Barbatos. I would not turn you away.

[ But--- ]

Would you enlighten me on these other circumstances? Is there something you require of me?

[outofoffice]

How comfortable are you with being a bodyguard?

[leaveofabsence]

Very. Who is threatening you?

[outofoffice]

One of the guest stars miiiight intend to indiscriminately kill sensitIVs, depending on circumstances and his mood.

But your unit has actual fighting abilities, so that's perfect!

[ The cheerful tone does not remotely waver ]

[leaveofabsence]

Then I will stay close until the danger has passed.

Can you give me a description of this guest star?

[outofoffice]

He's one of the YOU-kais. Tall -- taller than you, maybe -- with blonde hair and purple eyes.

I wouldn't take him lightly, as multiple people have reported that he can field several trained warriors at once with relative ease.

[leaveofabsence]

[ Blonde hair. Purple eyes. YOU-kai. Well-versed in fighting.

The details all click into place as Zhongli crosses his arms. ]

Does he wield a polearm? One with a curved blade at the end.

[outofoffice]

Perhaps. I've never seen him fight before.

Why?

[leaveofabsence]

[ Pulls up this profile. ]

I believe I might have.