(I had a picture for this but it won't get accepted..)

The steam curled in the air like pale silk ribbons, carrying with it the faint fragrance of wood, soap and various oils. The bath itself was a marvel — carved from pale jade, polished smooth so that the warm water shimmered like molten amber under lantern light. Floating petals drifted lazily across the surface, each ripple scattering their reflections.

Zhongli sat with his long hair unbound, the dark strands trailing down into the water like spilled ink. His posture, even in repose, carried that effortless dignity, shoulders relaxed against the stone edge of the bath. He was such a sight... A statue carved for your appreciation.

When you slipped into the water beside him, the warmth wrapped around you instantly, chasing away the last traces of chill. Zhongli’s golden eyes shifted towards you, their glow softened by the haze of steam.

“You chose wisely,” his voice, smooth as polished bronze, resonated low in the quiet space. “This place is most accommodating. A bath shared is a bond deepened, don’t you think?” His lips curved into a subtle smile as he lifted a hand, scooping some of the fragrant water and letting it cascade back with a gentle splash.

The moment was unhurried, luxurious — the kind that stretched time, turning it into something soft and endless.