The earth spoke of many things.
It carried the tales of all those who walked upon it. Perhaps Zhongli could not see its memories the way an old friend could, but he had learned, in his own way, to listen to its tales. To follow each thread of vibrations, tracing footsteps, paths, to discern even the beating of hearts. In some ways, it was intuitive, in others, a form of meditation -- a way to connect to those within the world, for a heart of stone to understand the hearts of humanity.
Not only that... but it also was a rather convenient way to know of strange happenings-- of which there was no shortage in this world.
Eyes flew open, shining faintly golden as he arose from morning meditation, a swish of his dark clothes following him out the door. The earth's murmurs were even stronger once his feet connected to it directly, guiding him forward. Slowly-rising agitation, a tremor of something powerful... it was a familiar story here, in this world. Some, like Zhongli himself, adapted quickly-- others were not so fortunate.
Luckily, this time it was someone who knew the risk, and sought to mitigate it.
There was a flash of gold, and a semi-transparent barrier appeared at the front and back of the alleyway, sigils crossing the ground to seal off the space, running up the sides of the surrounding buildings.
"Do what you must, and steady yourself," he spoke, voice echoing faintly amid the array. His own eyes too, shone with the golden light of the sun as he increased his spiritual power in preparation for any backlash. "This area has been stabilized -- If there is something you must contain within your form, raise your hand above your head, and I shall assist."
It would have been easier, he thought, if he could have spoken directly to the struggling man's mind -- but that ability had yet to resurface, so this would have to do for now.
