[Video; UN: gentlebreeze]

[gentledawn]

[Xingchen presents himself as neatly as he is able, his appearance immaculate right down to his horsetail whisk. Said whisk rests on his lap, his hands toying with it nervously.]

Greetings, fellow travelers. I am Xiao Xingchen. [He gives a small bow at the waist before straightening with a soft smile.] I am a Cultivator who is unaffiliated with any sect. For those who do not recognize the title, a Cultivator is one who can combat, silence or exorcise ghosts, demons or other monstrosities.

[Here, he pauses.]

I have heard that demons are present in our number. I mean you no harm as long as you remain peaceful.

Comments

[pureyang]

As am I. You are the first exorcist that I have met since coming here.

[Over the video, Chongyun gives a polite bow.]

I am Chongyun, an exorcist from Liyue. I come from a long line of exorcists, known as the Tianheng Thaumaturges, and have learned many great skills from my clan.

[gentledawn]

[The bow is returned - just as politely.]

Well met, Chongyun. I hope your skills are not needed in this land, but I am relieved we could work together if necessary.

[pureyang]

I agree. Should you ever need, I have much of my clan's knowledge that I would be happy to share. And, if it's not too much to ask, I would be delighted to learn anything you are willing to offer as well.

[Despite his serious and polite demeanour, he does seem excited at the prospect of meeting another exorcist! Maybe they'll have knowledge he's never heard of before. Speaking of which...]

Actually, if I may, I was wondering if I could ask for your opinion on something.

[gentledawn]

I am always happy to share and learn! [That would be a pleasant way to pass the time.] What I know isn't secret. The more we know, the more good we can accomplish.

[Xingchen smiles encouragingly.]

Please. Ask.

[pureyang]

I understand we are from different worlds, but do you happen to know anything about suppressing Yang energy? You see, I was born with something known as a pure-Yang spirit, and such a constitution can sometimes get in the way of my exorcism training. I have ways of suppressing my Yang energy back home, but I might need some substitutes while I am here.

[gentledawn]

I might be able to help. My energy is likely more Yin oriented. It's possible I could forge a talisman or make an amulet to give you balance. We could try?

[pureyang]

Really? That's great! I would be happy to try it out. Honestly, I'm willing to try anything. I'm surprised I hadn't thought of a talisman myself...

[He scratches his head a little sheepishly.]

Back home, evil spirits are comprised of Yin energy, and so my Yang spirit ends up chasing them away before I can even arrive to exorcise them. It makes it difficult to get close to them to exorcise them with my clan's techniques. I must be the only exorcist who's never actually seen an evil spirit.

[gentledawn]

It keeps you safe. [And now he is wondering if he should balance it out.] Perhaps your energy is a blessing? We should consider this carefully. I don't want to put you in danger.

[pureyang]

[Keeps him safe? He hadn't thought of that before. He looks puzzled.]

But... I always viewed it as a hindrance. My clan has several exorcism techniques for banishing evil spirits, but I have never had a chance to use them. If I don't use my exorcism techniques, how will I know where I need to improve?

[gentledawn]

What if we diluted the effect of your energy just enough for you to practice? I can understand wanting to improve and I could accompany you in those moments. [Just to be extra safe.]

[pureyang]

Dilute it..? Hmm... it's worth a shot.

[He nods.]

I appreciate your insight on this. You must be a very knowledgable exorcist.

[gentledawn]

I learned from the best. I cannot say I know everything and some deeds are outside of my abilities. But this seems possible if we work together.

[pureyang]

I think you're right. We can surely do well if we work together.

[He nods once more. Then, after a brief pause, he lets out a small breath.]

Honestly, it feels nice talking to a fellow exorcist. I've spoken to people here who don't seem to believe in evil spirits, or who come from worlds similar to this one. So being able to talk to another exorcist is quite refreshing.

[gentledawn]

You are not alone and I am happy to know that neither am I!

[Xingchen looks pleased at what follows, eyes brightening.]

Contact me whenever you like. The time doesn't matter; I will answer.

[pureyang]

I will definitely contact you, Master Xingchen. Ah, and should you need any extra help with exorcism work, feel free to contact me as well!

[gentledawn]

I shall. We shouldn't face anything alone.