Chapter 39
(Flashback, Right before the opening of the Dead Hall Internet Cafe)
The warm glow of lanterns flickered against the dark wood of the newly opened Dead Hall Internet Cafe, casting long shadows as Hu Tao and Zhongli stepped inside.
The scent of freshly brewed tea mixed with the faint smell of polished wood, and the quiet hum of idle computers filled the air.
Hu Tao twirled around, hands stretched out as if embracing the space. "It's finally ready! My very own internet cafe! My ancestors must be thrilled I'm keeping the family business alive... in a very different way..."
Zhongli chuckled, his gaze sweeping across the room
"You've certainly taken a creative approach. Though I must admit, the name is... unique."
Hu Tao grinned, adjusting the skull-shaped charm hanging from the café's sign. "Dead Hall Internet Café! A place where the connection never dies! Ghosts, gamers, and even you grandpa! are all welcome to sit back, click away, and embrace eternity!" She struck a dramatic pose before bursting into laughter.
Zhongli shook his head with a soft smile. "It's quite the venture. Though, I assume this is more than just another business experiment?"
Hu Tao's expression softened as she glanced at the empty chairs, soon to be filled with friends, travelers, and lonely souls seeking connection. "Yeah... I think people need a place where they can be together, even if it's through a screen. I've spent my life making sure the dead are honored, but the living... they need care too."
Zhongli watched her with a knowing look, the wisdom of countless ages in his amber eyes. "You have always understood the balance of life and death better than most."
Hu Tao gave a small laugh, rubbing the back of her head. "Aw, come on, don't get all sentimental on me! You'll make me cry before we even open!"