#hxllowedpuppet

A seedling will not bear fruit simply because she wishes to see it.

"Oh?" she says, intrigued, though it might sound ironic coming from anyone else. And even the smile she adopts could not be more genuine. "I am glad to hear that."

The last part, however, gives her pause. Nahida does not need to guess at how he saw himself not long ago. What little regard he'd had for his own life when he'd been prepared to blot his entire existence from the world tree.

The situation has changed significantly, but she knows he is still finding his footing, learning to appreciate everything with new eyes.

Starter for @hxllowedpuppet

[SUMERU]: During the previous reign of the Great Sages, many festivities and celebrations were banned in the pursuit of complete control and knowledge. As such, it’s about time we revive and create some new special events to be held. One bright student at the Akademiya read about ancient parties held where people would disguise themselves as monsters to ward off lingering evil energies. While dressing up as a Hilichurl or a slime may not be the hip thing amongst the newer generation, the point still stands that you are hereby invited to the first ever Sumeru Akademiya Costume Party Extravaganza!!! Held in the Rtawahist main hall. Snacks will be provided. :)

It was not how he'd planned to visit Akademiya, but there was no way he'd pass up the chance to see the great institution in person. News of the revived festival had managed to spread even to Liyue, and Xingqiu had pulled a few strings to get a perfect costume ready in time.

Too perfect.

He could hold his own, though he didn't want to against fellow travelers and the people of Sumeru. However, he wasn't fond of the idea of taking his costume off either. For what felt like the tenth time, he waved his gloved hands pacifyingly at a terrified civilian.

"Listen," he said, under the full covering of his Abyss Mage mask and cowl. "I mean you no harm! I am not a real Abyss Mage. Surely you can hear my voice doesn't match that of those troublesome rogues. Could you please direct me towards Akademiya?"

He had to admit, it was funny.

Directed towards the main hall, he made his way there in full costume, stopping behind a stranger near the hall. He couldn't tell what this person was dressed as, but surely he would be attending, right? Xingqiu tapped him on the shoulder, smile hidden behind his mask.

"Boo!" He spread his arms wide, striking a pose while holding a replica of an Abyss Mage staff proudly.

With that out of the way,