OHDOM VOL 2. 191-224 (Patreon)

Chapter 191: I, Angel, have acknowledged you."Listen carefully Shenhe. To build a close relationship, the first thing is to show up more often. Take Maria for example. Back then, she was so aloof, spending all her time guarding her tiny plot of land, the Salt of the Earth, hunting and honing her martial arts. Of course, Maria back then was just as charming... Huh? Why did she guard that place in the first place? I don't think I've ever seriously asked that question."Guizhong veered off topic, stroking her chin, her bright eyes blinking as if she had suddenly discovered a blind spot.Xianyun, who was listening, couldn't help but tap Guizhong on the head. "Just teach, don't ramble on. Who wants to hear about your past with the Salt King?""I see. It just suddenly occurred to me. Where was I just now?"Guizhong scratched her head, remembering something. She put her arm around Shenhe's shoulders and continued. "First, you need to make yourself familiar with them. Even the most indifferent person will gradually warm up if you truly connect with them. A little trick is to bring your favorite food. When you get there and you have something to talk about, talk about it. If not, just eat while looking at her and try to share something with her. So, what do you like to eat?""I... I like the longevity noodles that Master makes."Shenhe hesitated for a long time before finally offering this answer.It wasn't that the longevity noodles were made with exquisite ingredients, expertly prepared, or incredibly delicious. It was that when she ate them, Cloud Retainer, Moon Carver, and Mountain Shaper would gather around her, smiling and offering gifts while watching her eat.Shenhe felt that feeling was much better than usual.So, that must mean she likes it, right?"Oh Little Shenhe loves Master's homemade longevity noodles~"Guizhong raised an eyebrow frivolously, her beautiful eyes curved into crescents in a smile. She glanced at Xianyun and poked her shoulder with a finger."Did you hear that? Did you hear that, Cloud Retainer?""Stop... stop messing around! Seriously teach!"Irritated by Guizhong's teasing, Xianyun struggled to suppress the upward curve of her lips when she heard her disciple say that.That was truly unbearable.Finally, she couldn't contain herself and turned her back to the two of them, her face in her hands, a joyful smile spreading across her face. After a long moment, Xianyun returned, her face stern as she addressed Guizhong. "Teach well!""Yes, yes, all as you say."Guizhong, her face still mirthful, turned to Shenhe and continued. "Longevity noodles are for birthdays, so they're not suitable to bring. I'm talking about your daily diet.""Regularly, Qingxin, Violetgrass, and other mountain herbs."Shenhe counted on her fingers and slowly tilted her head.Guizhong blinked, turned, and stared at Xianyun with disbelief."You're just feeding your child this?"Guizhong's eyes clearly read those words, filled with intense shock.Xianyun's scalp tingled. Shenhe had just said that, and now she was being treated as a mean parent? Xianyun explained a bit flusteredly."Cultivation... cultivation works like this! Drinking dew and swallowing medicine, clearing the body and brightening the mind—that's the immortal way of cultivation! Besides, the mountains aren't as well-stocked as the city, so you definitely can't have everyday delicacies!""Stare—""Don't look at me like that! Ganyu got through it that way!""Stare—""...I'll go get some food and make you a midnight snack later."Xianyun transformed into a crane and flew away.I can't sit in on this class.Xianyun seriously suspected that Guizhong was still unsatisfied after toying with her and Madam Ping's dignity and purity, so now she was deliberately teasing her during her class!Slipping away.Anyway Cloud Retainer's persuasive skills aren't as good as the Lord of Dust's, but they're good enough among old friends. There's no need to sit in on her lectures!... At the same time, the descender Angel held a miniature four-legged stone beast in her hand, stroking it thoughtfully."This is the dragon of Teyvat. While certainly different from our system, it's also significantly different from the demons and the laws of nature. Their greatest characteristic is their exceptionally close connection to the world."[Please elaborate.]"Well, superficially, the gods are also closely connected to Teyvat, possessing the power to influence the world. Their entire life and death are closely tied to the ley lines... But dragons are different. Their connection to the world is more fundamental. If we stripped the sky and ley lines shaped by Celesria from Teyvat, then the gods would have to follow them, while the dragons would remain in Teyvat."[So the dragons are native of this world, and the gods are byproducts, foreign gods?]Angel nodded, agreeing with the other Angels' summary.[In other words, if the structures related to Celestia were stripped away, the gods would likely perish, or at least lose a great deal of power. However, dragons remain dragons; they belong to Teyvat, not to the Celestia.]Another Angel further summarized the difference between dragons and gods.The Descender Angel nodded again. "Dragons belong to Teyvat, and gods belong to Celestia. This makes ancient history even clearer. Teyvat was originally a world of dragons. Then Celestia descended, defeated, and seized the dragon world. Celestia then forged structures like the False Heaven and the Irminsul, drastically altering the environment and transforming Teyvat into a human world."[But Celestia's methods appear to have limits. Even with its transformation, Teyvat's essence remains a world of dragons, sustaining the dragons' existence and power.]"Or perhaps dragons should be an integral part of the world itself. Forcibly removing them would only cause the world to collapse, a loss that would outweigh the gains. Hence the Archon War and the Descender of the Seven Thrones. Through a plan spanning thousands of years, Celestia achieved the goal of replacing seven dragons with seven gods, replacing the world's heart with its own."[What a grand gesture.]The Angels nodded in agreement.As expected of the character who had forced herself to stay at the beginning.I, Angel, acknowledge your worthiness to face the ultimate dark boss, that is also me. The Descender Angel caressed the dragon's body, shrunk using spatial technology, and a dangerous smile appeared on her face."Replacing the world's core with my own—what a brilliant idea. If Celestia can do it, so can I!"[If they can use seven gods to replace seven dragons to stabilize and control the world, then we can also use seven dragon clones to replace the seven gods. The principle is the same.]"They had given us a strategy."[There's nothing new under the sun. Celestia took away the dragon's world, so the Descender can naturally take away Celestia's world. This is called... well, isn't it a bit excessive?]Angel hesitated.On second thought, Celestia didn't actually do anything excessive.They forced Angel to stay, but in the final analysis, Angel wasn't at fault.Furthermore, with the hasty attack of the Taixuan Eminence and the influx of Honkai energy, it's hard to say whether Celestia will have a future.Objectively speaking, it's hard to say which side was more excessive. Angel had come only to seek knowledge.Was it necessary to go so far as to steal a world someone had managed for tens of thousands of years?---Chapter 192: What Celestia can do, I can do too![I believe that if we can completely control the world of Teyvat, it could become an ark. If the Honkai truly cannot be defeated, this is one of our escape routes.]A certain Angel's words ended the Angels' hesitation.There were already too many people in the Honkai World who were inseparable. Kiana, Himeko, Wendy, Sirin... so many names, and their figures, both sexy and lovely, emerged before the Angels' eyes.Then, there was no need to hesitate.Whether Celestia was innocent or not was insignificant compared to the people Angel cared about."Anyway, we are the scheming, ruthless, and cold-blooded masterminds behind the scenes."The Descender Angel nodded, calming the last trace of her inner turmoil.Then, she tilted her head back, opened her mouth wide, and dropped the dragon body frozen in the miniature space into her mouth."Crack!"The sound of something crunching echoed from Angel's mouth.Angel and her companions had brought a great variety of things.A little bit of everything.Corruption power, Domination power, the Power of Reason, Chiyou's devouring physique—combined, the Geo Vishap's physique, accumulation, and power—everything, like iron ore entering a furnace, was rapidly disassembled, digested, and fused into the body of the descender Angel."Boom!"The escaping power shattered the top floor of the building.But that was all.Angel came from a vaster and more powerful world.Before setting off, she had even come into contact with the perfect Chimera, Kevin. Compared to the depth of the Honkai World, the Geo Vishap's power was merely exceptional, not overwhelming, and certainly not likely to cause Angel to lose control.The broken parts of the building were rapidly repairing, and the fallen and shattered tables and chairs were returning to their original positions.Angel stood in the sunlight, taking in everything from Teyvat's native creatures, her arms spread wide with enjoyment."Hmm~~"When Shenhe arrived, carrying a large bamboo basket, she saw Angel facing the sunlight."Chewchewchew~~""Why aren't you talking?""I was afraid to disturb you.""Oh, you're so considerate?"Angel turned and gazed calmly at Shenhe.At the same time, Angel's golden hair transformed into a deeper, more brilliant color, as if transformed into real gold. Her eyes also turned a majestic dark gold, and golden dragon horns emerged from her head. A long tail rose from beneath her skirt, its tip tipped with delicate green leaves that had the texture of crystal jade.And for the first time, Shenhe saw Angel clearly.The girl with dragon horns and dragon tail stood by the railing, stroking the jade leaves at the tip with her delicate fingers. Her clear eyes shone with autumnal ripples, her delicate face delicate like peach blossoms etched in spring snow. In the blink of an eye, she had changed into a long, red dress, the style of Liyue. The flowing hem of her skirt made her look like a stunning young lady from a painting.'So small...''So beautiful...'Shenhe silently chewed on Qingxin, unsure of what to say. She had her own aesthetic sense, and Angel's looks were a perfect score.Angel walked to the table, completely oblivious to the change in her appearance, or to the failure of her concealment techniques. She acted completely unfazed.They sat down, and Shenhe handed over a handful of herbs."What do you mean?""Want some? I usually eat this.""Isn't it bitter?"Angel had no idea why Shenhe had suddenly come over with a basket of herbs. But she still took the herbs from Shenhe's hand, picked up a leaf, and put it in her mouth. "It has a refreshing medicinal flavor, with a slightly sweet aftertaste. Not bad.""Well, it's actually okay if you only eat a small amount. But if you keep eating, it gets increasingly bitter. So, unless I'm particularly hungry, I usually stop after a while and then continue. It's much better that way."Shenhe sincerely shared her experience eating grass, constantly stuffing and chewing."Lord of Dust is right. Sharing food always gives us something to talk about."Shenhe suddenly thought of something to talk about."What do you usually eat?""Just normal food. I'm a bit of a sweet tooth, and I often cook my own food. I can eat most things, though. I don't have any particular preferences or taboos... but I don't eat grass.""Those who practice in the mountains usually eat medicinal herbs. They nourish and strengthen the body, and they free the mind from the distractions of worldly life.""The adepti(immortals) here are truly different from the immortals I know."Angel shook her dragon tail, covered in emerald jade leaves, and with a wave of her hand, sweet desserts and steaming hot tea appeared on the table.Shenhe chewed a few times and swallowed the herbs. Then, after a moment's thought, she dropped the bamboo basket and reached for the cake.This one's a bit tastier.While eating the cake, Shenhe asked,"Are there immortals in the outside world?""Yes, a fifty-thousand-year-old immortal, also my master.""Five... fifty thousand years?"Shenhe's eyes widened in astonishment.Then she calmed down.Immortals (adeptus), with their vast powers, are naturally a bit outrageous."I don't know how old Cloud Retainer is, but she should be around two or three thousand years old. The immortals there are truly enduring.""Living longer isn't necessarily a good thing... so why did you bring a basket of herbs?""Lord of Dust said that building ties starts with sharing food."Shenhe is known for her straightforwardness.Angel blinked, her gaze turning toward Mt. Aocang, a hint of helplessness in her eyes.'This woman actually snuck off to Mt. Aocang.'[She promised me she'd stay in Liyue Harbor, by Morax's side.]Maria's voice sounded particularly helpless.Although the Descender Angel was one of their own, nothing could happen to her. But only the Angels knew this truth.From Guizhong's subjective perspective, she simply didn't care about her own life or death. She came to solve Liyue's problems, sharing life and death with her best friend!"Sharing food—isn't that the same tactic she used to win you over back then? What's going on? Trying to pull the same old trick on me? As expected of her!!"[...Stop it.]Maria recalled the past.It was a bit embarrassing to say, but she had disrupted her own experimental plan, and it really all started with sharing the baked naan with Guizhong.Maria hesitated, then warned.[Be careful, don't scare her. She's not fully recovered yet, and if she gets excited, she could get hurt.][I know, I know.]The Descender Angel rolled her eyes, expressing disdain for her other self's fussiness."I've been here for a while, and haven't been to the city yet. I'm planning to visit Liyue Harbor. Interested in joining us?"Angel said calmly, extending her hand to Shenhe as an invitation.The main point was that she had already joined the game as an Descender, and her grand plan to conquer Celestia by using her dragon form to replace the Seven Archons had taken shape.Then, it's time to increase our presence, stir up the waters of Teyvat, give the Archons a sense of urgency, and let them explore other options.The World Tree, the Descenders, the factions to choose from will multiply. With more than one entity capable of challenging Celestia, Celestia's supremacy will be shattered. This will effectively disenchant the Archons, rapidly diminishing their reverence for Celestia.As the Archons of the Seven Nations distance themselves from the sky, they become closer to Angel. Subsequently, Angel will face less resistance and more support.Steady development is her forte, a skill she's already accustomed to."Hmm?"A hint of confusion crossed Shenhe's eyes.Lord of Dust's teachings didn't seem to mention how to handle such situations.Oh, she did say that in uncertain situations, one should act according to one's own will."Okay, I'll go."Shenhe shook Angel's hand.---Chapter 193: Rex Lapis, Rex Lapis, Rex Lapis... Rex Lapis?Liyue Harbor, at the city gate."Hmm I'm finally back~"Facing the familiar bridge and the familiar accent, Keqing perked up and stretched.Her purple, pointed twin-tails fluttered in the wind. The black stockings cinched around her round, jade-like legs reflected a soft, alluring glow in the sunlight."Alas, that's how diplomatic missions are. We have to travel overland, carrying all sorts of things. As a result, we spend far more time on the road than we did talking to Jean in Mondstadt. I heard that clockwork mechanisms in Fontaine are very well-developed for transportation. I wonder if it's possible..."Keqing rubbed her chin, lost in thought.Having barely arrived at the city gate andbbefore even setting foot in Liyue Harbor, she was already contemplating the major developments of Liyue.This was Liyue's legendary tool-man, the Jade-Heng Star. Angel studied the thighs in black silk stockings intently and spoke, "Liyue Qixing Yuheng Keqing?""Yes, it's me. I'm Keqing. How can I help you?"As one of the Liyue Qixing who was almost the most connected to the grassroots, Keqing turned back instinctively when she heard someone calling her name. She spoke seriously yet politely.Then, she was stunned.The two beauties before her were clearly not ordinary people.The tall woman in the back had a delicate head and eyebrows, gleaming eyes, and gray hair flowing in the wind. Her black tights showcased her extremely perfect and voluptuous figure. But the point wasn't her rare beauty, but her elegant and ethereal aura, like a cold and aloof adeptus from the mountains.Is she an adeptus?Keqing subconsciously judged.A closer look revealed that the attire was strikingly similar to that of the well-known Yuehai Pavilion secretary and general manager of the General Affairs Department. This further confirmed the other person's immortal status.If she's an adeptus, who could possibly be ahead of her?Keqing's heart skipped a beat, and she quickly glanced at Angel, who was holding an oil-paper umbrella.A perfectly crafted face, a delicate and elegant red dress in the style of ancient China. Her eyes were a calm and noble golden hue, flawless and beautiful, like a true beauty, unearthly. But the most striking thing about her were her extraordinary dragon horns and tail.The Geovishap Azhdaha had disappeared for over a thousand years, and the people of Liyue had long forgotten his existence. They only knew of him through historical records.In today's Liyue, when people mentioned dragons, only one came to mind."Rex Lapis... Rex Lapis!""Hmm?"Angel had begun admiring the seascape of Liyue Harbor. The vastness of the ocean contrasted with the bustling world, creating a captivating scene.Hearing the sudden exclamation, she turned to glance at Keqing.Keqing immediately straightened her back, her face tense, her heart pounding.Angel neither denied nor admitted. She simply smiled, nodded politely, and walked onto the bridge leading into the city.Shenhe naturally followed. Passing by Keqing, she gave her a neutral glance and said nothing. She wasn't socially anxious; at this stage, she wasn't either. It was mainly because she didn't know her, so naturally, there was nothing to say.After the strange group faded away on the bridge, the envoys' breathing and chattering could be heard again, as if the play button had suddenly been pressed. "Rex Lapis! Lord Yuheng, is that Rex Lapis!?""It's Rex Lapis... Rex Lapis... Eh?""What are you talking about?""Huh? Lord Yuheng, why are we stopping here?"The envoys' excitement, agitation, and disbelief quickly subsided, and soon they were collectively bewildered."Huh?"Keqing turned her eager gaze from the bridge to the group, only to be met with a sea of bewildered faces."You... you guys... hiss!"Keqing pressed her brows hard, realizing that her memory of the moment with Rex Lapis was rapidly fading.*What did their face look like? I forgot.""What was he wearing? I forgot." "And what else... Oh, dragon horns and a dragon tail! Yes, there's that too!*After a while, the memory fading stopped. However, Keqing only remembered the dragon's horns and tail; nothing else could be recalled.She subconsciously reached out and touched the Vision hanging from her neck.Is it thanks to the Vision?She still remembers a little bit, but everyone else has forgotten.This must be Rex Lapis's magic, so as not to cause chaos in Liyue Harbor, so people forget it after seeing it...As expected of Rex Lapis!Then she can't rashly reveal Rex Lapis's whereabouts.Keqing came up with an explanation.It made perfect sense.No wonder everyone says adeptal energy is so rare. If all adepti used such abilities, then everyone would have forgotten it after seeing it, and naturally no one would have seen it.In short, Rex Lapis had arrived in Liyue Harbor, and as one of the Qixing, she had to do something. Keqing's eyes flickered for a moment, then she spoke seriously."I have something important to do, so I'll go to Yuehai Pavilion first. Send the itinerary log and signed documents to the proper places and handle them according to the rules.""Yes!"Keqing left, transforming into a flash of lightning and heading straight for Yuehai Pavilion."That's Master Yuheng's Heavenly Street Parade acrobatic technique, right? It's said that when she officially unleashes her swordsmanship, she transforms into lightning, slashing out thousands of sword strikes in an instant, making her unstoppable.""I heard it was thanks to this acrobatic technique that she was able to travel across Liyue at such a young age, produce accurate and reliable topographical data and construction plans, and ultimately be chosen as Master Yuheng.""Alright, alright, let's get to work! I don't know how Master Yuheng became Master Yuheng, but I know this Master won't turn a blind eye if we don't do our job well!"As they chatted and laughed, they completely forgot about Angel and Shenhe's delegation and walked into the city with their vehicles and belongings.Keqing had already arrived at Yuehai Pavilion."Then the Treasure Hoarders will be arranged as follows. The Millelith will...""Swish!"A flash of lightning appeared, and a strong wind ruffled the ends of Ganyu's aqua-blue ponytail.Ganyu blinked, brushed her hair from her forehead, and then said to the stunned Millelith soldiers."I have other important matters to attend to. Anyway, I'm handing you the documents. As previously discussed, you must handle them with extreme caution. Don't let the Treasure Hoarders disrupt normal trade.""Yes!"Ganyu watched the assigned soldiers walk away before turning back.She looked at Keqing, her soft, crystalline eyes blinking with a hint of confusion. Then she picked up the teapot on the table, poured a glass of water, and handed it to Keqing:"Yuheng, you just returned from Mondstadt, right? I haven't even heard from the delegation yet, and you're rushing here. Is there something urgent? Please have a drink of water and let's talk."Ganyu has assisted in the governance of Liyue for thousands of years. The Qixing are ever-changing, but the secretary remains forever. What storms hadn't she seen? That's why she remained unfazed.Keqing didn't even bother to worry about her image. She took the water cup, tilted her head back, and gulped it down. Then she said bluntly."Ganyu, listen to me! I think I met Rex Lapis!""...Huh?"The secretary was stunned.----Chapter 194: It's Absolutely NormalKeqing recounted everything she could remember.It wasn't much, just dragon horns and a dragon tail, followed by an adeptus, and their encounter at the Liyue Harbor bridge.As for appearance, clothing, or even what was said, she couldn't recall a thing.Ganyu frowned slightly after hearing this, spoke, "Dragon characteristics? If that's the case, it's certainly possible that he's Rex Lapis incarnate. While I haven't seen Rex Lapis use a memory-obscuring technique, it's not surprising that he's a genius and omnipotent, so it's not surprising that he'd use such a technique."In Ganyu's eyes, the Geo Archon was no different from the real Long Aotian. It was just a matter of obscuring a mortal's memory. Ganyu could already grasp the idea of the technique just by thinking about it, so wouldn't Rex Lapis be able to do it with just a wave of his hand?After hearing this, Keqing became even more certain of the noble status of the person she had only a vague impression of. She said, "I don't know why Rex Lapis has come to Liyue Harbor at this time and in this way. But since Rex Lapis has arrived, we should take good care of Liyue, so that he can see a stable, prosperous, and orderly Liyue and complete this trip with peace and happiness. What do you think, Ganyu?""That... seems reasonable.""No, I don't agree with Yuheng's statement."A sudden, soft voice, laced with a lazy smile, caused Keqing and Ganyu to turn their heads.The first thing they saw was a pair of gleaming golden finger rings, the visitor's signature item. She had white hair and crimson eyes, and wore an elegant, regal, gold-threaded cheongsam. Her figure was graceful, her legs like jade, and she exuded a calm aura that seemed gentle and approachable at first, yet was actually unfathomable."Ningguang, what brings you here?""Of course I have something to discuss with Ganyu, but I didn't expect to see Yuheng right away, discussing such earth-shattering, heart-shattering news.""Then why do you say you disagree?""Yuheng, Ganyu, may I ask what time it is now?"Ningguang naturally joined the conversation, and Keqing and Ganyu showed no sign of refusing.Since this concerned Rex Lapis, the Qixing naturally wouldn't miss out and should participate.After a moment of contemplation, Ganyu looked towards Yujing Terrace, specifically the location of the Rite of Parting."Tianquan Star means Rex Lapis is here to assess public sentiment?""Exactly. You must know that this year's Rite of Descension is approaching, and at this time, Sumeru, Inazuma, Mondstadt, and Fontaine are experiencing dramatic changes one after another. Rex Lapis's heart is with Liyue. Seeing these changes, wouldn't he be more cautious in considering the development direction for the new year?""Tianquan Star's words make sense. Following this series of changes, Rex Lapis's original policies may indeed need some revision. In order to formulate policies more in line with Liyue's realities, it's natural for Rex Lapis to visit Liyue Harbor incognito to assess public sentiment.""This also explains why Rex Lapis employed such adeptal techniques. An incognito visit naturally requires minimizing the risk to anyone, allowing for a clearer view of Liyue's true situation. Only by taking into account the good and bad, the successes and failures of Liyue's current situation can the most appropriate decisions be made. This is Rex Lapis's wisdom."Ningguang smiled with admiration, stroking her golden finger rings, her eyes gleaming with the same yearning that distinguished the average Liyue resident. Ganyu nodded in agreement.Keqing also looked enlightened."I see. Then we really shouldn't force anything. Let nature take its course and let Rex Lapis see Liyue Harbor's normal state.""As long as Yuheng understands, I'm glad. Then, let's each choose one of Liyue Harbor's three busiest thoroughfares.""Huh?""What's Yuheng surprised about? I'm simply saying we shouldn't arbitrarily impose martial law and disrupt Liyue Harbor's normal flow. But it's okay if we didn't know Rex Lapis was coming. Now that we know, we should naturally go greet him and see if he needs any attendants or inquiries."Ningguang looked even more surprised than Keqing.Seriously, that's Rex Lapis!How could they still be sitting in their offices doing their usual work if they knew he was coming?Fairly speaking, the Qixing should pay their respects to Rex Lapis on behalf of Liyue Harbor. Whether he sought their service was one thing; whether they were waiting on the street was another. Personally, as Rex Lapis's consort, who could resist the chance to meet him outside of the formalities of inviting immortals?Ganyu nodded in agreement.Yes, she had to show respect to Rex Lapis; it was obligatory, courteous etiquette. However, she frowned, looking at Keqing who usually didn't hold Rex Lapis in high regard, and hesitated. "Tianquan Star's words make sense. But Yuheng must have come all this way, exhausted, so doesn't she need a break? I can ask the other Qixing...""No! I'm fine! I'll just go to the middle street!"Keqing's voice was several pitches higher than usual.But at this point, no one paid much attention to Keqing's slight change.Even Ganyu, who occasionally received divine instructions from Rex Lapis, was particularly excited to see him....The night the God of Salt and her wife revived, all the adepti still active in Liyue arrived. Madam Ping even kicked open her apprentice Xiangling's door and carried the drowsy Guoba over.But Ganyu didn't go.Mainly, she was working overtime overnight. Plus, she was the younger generation, so it wouldn't be a problem for them to meet again someday. So Madam Ping didn't insist and simply left with Guoba as she was ager to attend the banquetThat night, Morax appeared in the form of Zhongli, dignified before all the adepti and yakshas.Ganyu missed it, and, having been working overtime, she had no time to interact with the adepti.So, she hadn't known that Rex Lapis had transformed into a guest official at the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor and had already begun enjoying himself with the people.So, when she saw the red-dressed Little Dragon Girl holding an oil-paper fan, Ganyu was truly confused at first.It doesn't seem like there's Rex Lapis's aura. But it's normal for Rex Lapis's aura to vary given his numerous incarnations. And since he was on an incognito visit, it's no surprise she couldn't sense it.That immensely powerful elemental force of Geo... must be true.No adeptus, save Rex Lapis and Azhdaha, possesses such power.Ganyu felt her judgment was correct.Yes, the same thing happened with Azhdaha and the Descender situation. Because she was preoccupied with Liyue affairs and, as a junior, she was still unaware of the situation.With this, she was completely certain of the Dragon Girl's identity, and a smile of immense surprise suddenly spread across her face:"Rex Lapis...""Ganyu, um, Senior?"Before Ganyu could even begin to speak to Angel, Shenhe spoke first.The iconic qilin horns, the golden bell hanging from her chest, the icy Vision. Add to that the familiar Cloud Retainer style of clothing, the round, tight black silk legs, the threatening 'black slime'... all of these features matched the description given by Cloud Retainer.The hesitation in Shenhe's eyes turned to certainty."Senior Ganyu.""Ah? You have... white hair, and this clothing. Are you the Shenhe Lord Cloud mentioned?"Ganyu also recognized Shenhe from these characteristics. Her eyes widened slightly, then her smile of surprise returned. Besides Rex Lapis, she unexpectedly saw her junior sister, a person she'd never met before.Today was truly a wonderful day.As for why her junior sister was following Rex Lapis, it was both unexpected and understandable.Perhaps Rex Lapis had come from Mt. Aocang, so the adeptus had Shenhe accompany him. It was perfectly normal.---Chapter 195: So There's a Hidden Meaning?Angel had no intention of stealing Morax's identity.Her identity was her original self, Angel from the Honkai World—the descender who absorbed the Geosvishap's power to seize control of the world, the supreme being who was playing a game of justice.Pretending to be Morax or the second-generation Geo Archon would be a debasement.However, with Angel's experience as a villain who toyed with the world, she quickly understood how the misunderstanding arose—high amounts ofGeo element, and her dragon form.With such a combination of characteristics, it would be strange if the people of Liyue didn’t associate her with Morax.Angel handed the oil-paper fan to Shenhe and shook her head gently."I'm not Morax.""Yes, she's not Rex Lapis, Senior Ganyu.""Huh?"Angel and Shenhe denied it in quick succession.Ganyu tilted her head, blinking her eyes in confusion, a look of disbelief on her face.With such powerful Geo power, who else could it be but the Geo Archon? It couldn’t possibly be the return of the Dragon King of Ruins. I’ve never heard of that!Then, Ganyu’s mind resurfaced with the previous analysis she had with Keqing and Ningguang.Oh right, it’s an incognito visit!An incognito visit naturally required concealing one’s identity. Of course, it wasn’t Rex Lapis!Ganyu’s eyes lit up, realizing she understood Angel’s subtext. She smiled brightly again.“Ganyu understands. So, how should Ganyu address you?”“…I think you might not understand.”Angel’s mouth twitched imperceptibly. Her extensive experience in character portrayals allowed her to immediately discern that this sweet little lamb had fooled herself.The problem is, I haven’t done anything yet!“Yes, what should I address you?”Shenhe chimed in, gazing at Angel with clear, flawless eyes. This silly girl, unexpectedly shrewd, knew to press the issue, trying to get Angel’s name.Ganyu’s thoughts were further reaffirmed.Sure enough, Rex Lapis is so careless.This is his first time using this avatar, and he hadn’t even thought of a name before coming here. Shenhe wasn’t talking about Rex Lapis, so I’m afraid he told me that on the way there?Seriously, what else is there to hide from me?Ganyu smiled sweetly, looking at Angel with a loving gaze. She smiled silently, waiting for Rex Lapis to decide on a name for the avatar.“Angel, that’s my name.”Angel sighed softly and answered casually.The Descender is the Angel of the Honkai World. Angel is the Descender. There’s no need to hide that.As for the fact that there’s a local Angel in Mondstadt with the same name and appearance, that’s not a flaw at all.For example, there’s the cute Wendy and the old Venti(Wendy), the Herrscher of Rice and the poorly skille cook Raiden Shogun, and even in the outside world, there are countless Kianas, Herrschers of the Void, Theresa, Rita, and so on.In theory, all worlds within the Sea and Tree system are leaves from the same tree, so similarities are perfectly natural.A mere isomorphism from another world makes sense in Teyvat. If a connection is established between Teyvat and the Honkai World in the future, that would also make sense. It’s hardly a flaw.Rather, it’s precisely because Angel’s plan envisions Teyvat as a backup ark, sooner or later linked to the Honkai World, that the arriving person must be Angel.Only Angel can legitimately bridge the two worlds, fostering trust between civilizations and avoiding unnecessary conflict amidst mutual vigilance.“An… gel…”Shenhe slowly repeated the name, as if diligently committing it to memory.Ganyu’s eyes lit up. “Anbang Dingguo, Qihua Yaocao, what a beautiful name!”The former naturally refers to the status and deeds of the Geo Archon. As the god of a nation, this is as it should be.The latter refers to the beautiful, shimmering flowers and plants of a fairyland, a truly beautiful symbol, and it complements the jade-like branches at the end of Angel’s tail.As expected of Rex Lapis, he’s so casually chosen a fitting name!Angel rubbed her chin thoughtfully—so my name has such a beautiful meaning?I thought it was just a homophone for the word Angle!Sorry, parents from both sides of the world, I never imagined you’d be so thoughtful! Why didn’t you tell me?Angel nodded confidently, giving Ganyu a high compliment of “cultured sheep,” and said softly,“Yes, that’s what I mean.”“Well, Miss Angel, since you’ve come to Liyue Harbor, how about I be your guide?”“I already said I’m not… Never mind. Whatever you say.”Angel gave up, hesitant to speak.It wasn’t her initiative, anyway. What was her business if others misunderstood?Someone’s picking up the tab, saving her some trouble, and there was also a delightful goat-horned beauty. Why not?“Recently, everyone in Liyue has sensed the turmoil in the surrounding nations, but no one has panicked. You… I mean, the Geo Archon has been active in various countries, especially since Inazuma, as the leader of the Archons, intervened and prevented a near-death Archon War. This has made the people of Liyue feel proud and reassured.”“They all say they recall those days in history and legend. Liyue was just like that back then. Whether it was war, natural disasters, or demonic calamities, Rex Lapis and the adepti were at the top, and the Millelith and millions of people were at the bottom. Everyone worked together to overcome difficulties, sharing life and death. It’s just another turbulent time. With the Immortal Rex Lapis and the Millelith, Liyue will remain as solid and unshakable as ever.”“That being said, the Liyue Qixing have proactively sought innovation and change. The recent focus has shifted significantly toward expanding the Millelith, upgrading its equipment, and strengthening its military strongholds. Rex Lapis may be unrivaled, but as human beings, the people of Liyue should strive to do what they can. This is everyone’s understanding.”Ganyu felt that this was Rex Lapis’s “incognito visit,” so as they walked, she softly recounted her observations and reflections from Yuehai Pavilion, so that Rex Lapis could understand the overall situation.“Overall, the people’s hearts are strong, and the Liyue Qixing, the General Affairs Department, and the Millelith have all come to their senses. I think the current situation is excellent, far more vibrant than it was a hundred years ago.”Drawing on her thousands of years of experience assisting the government of Liyue, Ganyu expressed this sentiment.Angel could see that Ganyu’s smile was genuine. She wasn’t singing anyone’s praises, but simply expressing her true feelings.Unfortunately, the person hearing this summary wasn’t the Geo Archon, the one responsible for Liyue, but a descender with no connection to the city.Angel made no comment and continued her shopping, leisurely admiring the small trinkets sold at a street vendor. Her demeanor was calm and composed, unhurried and unflustered.Ganyu simply smiled meekly. In his early years, the Geo Archon had been passionate, fierce, and domineering, never using words when action was essential.But after the war ended and he ascended to the divine throne, as a ruler rather than a killer, he gradually became more reserved and composed.Angel’s calm demeanor perfectly matched Ganyu’s impression of Rex Lapis.----Chapter 196: Zhongli? An Unfamiliar Gentleman.With a true Liyue resident like Ganyu guiding her, Angel enjoyed a pleasant stroll.Which shops were reputable, which products were highly praised, which places boasted acclaimed beauty, and which areas held significant or intriguing historical connections?Ganyu knew every detail of Liyue Harbor, explaining it with unerring clarity.As a tour guide goes, you're quite capable.Angel glanced at Ganyu from time to time, sometimes glancing at her long black legs, sometimes stealing glances at the delicious black rump, nodding inwardly."It's time for lunch. How about I treat you two to try the new dishes at Liuli Pavilion?" Ganyu smiled and invited.Due to years of overtime and her lack of spending, Ganyu's salary was always in the red, leaving her wallet quite full. So, she confidently chose the most expensive place she knew.As for why they didn't go to the equally high-end Xinyue Kiosk—Liyue has two major cuisines, Licai and Yuecai, the former specializing in mountain delicacies, the latter in seafood.And the Geo Archon doesn't eat seafood, a fact Ganyu, who has served him for many years, had somewhat noticed.She felt that Liuli Pavilion was the only best option.Because she didn't know much about Liyue Harbor, Angel naturally didn't have much to choose from, so she nodded.And so, the newly arrived Little Dragon Girl in a red dress, with the Yuehai Pavilion secretary leading the way and the cool and beautiful adeptus holding an umbrella behind her, leisurely walked to the elegant Liuli Pavilion.They entered the room and took a seat. There was no ordering, as Ganyu had already made reservations.As Liyue's top employee, she was professional and attentive to every detail."Miss Angel, Shenhe, please have some tea."Ganyu smiled as she made tea. Although she was serving, she seemed quite happy.You can tell that she rarely see the person she serve, so she's very happy. Is she dog-type girl?If it were her, she'd at least come over and show some concern and comfort.Angel had a slightly different view of Morax's subordinates.Angel sipped her tea, waiting for the delicious dishes Ganyu had recommended.“Tap! Tap!”Suddenly, two hurried footsteps were heard outside the door.Keqing and Ningguang hurried to the door, stopping simultaneously. Ningguang then gently knocked.Ganyu looked at Angel questioningly.“I’m not Rex Lapis,” Angel explained dryly again, nodding.Ganyu simply gave a knowing smile and said to the door:“Please come in, both of you.”The two Liyue Qixing, nervous yet feigning composure, pushed the door open and entered."Greetings...""This is not Rex Lapis, but Miss Angel. Angel, the one who stabilizes the nation and brings forth beautiful flowers and herbs. Do you understand?"Ganyu introduced with a smile, her gesture and tone revealing obvious respect."Huh?"Keqing, overwhelmed with nervousness, didn't react immediately.Ningguang's eyes flickered, and then, impassively, she kicked Keqing's shin.Keqing had climbed to the position of Yuheng of the Liyue Qixing, governed by Morax, so her mind was naturally quick. She quickly "understood" the deeper meaning and gave Ningguang a look."Thank you.""No need."Ningguang returned the look. This was a meeting with Rex Lapis, not some kind of competition. The Qixing represented the mortals of Liyue, so naturally, everyone should behave properly and respectfully, and no one should slack off. The two of them bowed in unison, saying respectfully."Yuheng Keqing/Tianquan Ningguang greets to Miss Angel." ×2"And this is Shenhe, disciple of Cloud Retainer, and also my junior sister.""Greetings to Miss Shenhe." ×2After some back-and-forth courtesies, Angel, with a blank expression, allowed the two to sit down together.This is really getting out of hand. She hadn't even offered to intervene. What's the big deal?Then, Angel's lips curled up slightly again. It wasn't planned, but it was still quite amusing.You wouldn't get to see all three of them at once during a normal shopping trip; they're all busy, powerful figures. It was definitely worth it.Ganyu had chosen a prime private room. Outside the window, the ancient charm of Liyue Harbor was visible. Inside, the aroma of Liyue delicacies filled the air, along with the breathtaking scenery.Angel happily enjoyed her lunch. "Please hold onto the private room for a moment. I have guests.""Okay, Miss Angel."Ganyu agreed with a smile, but didn't ask any further questions.Knowing that Rex Lapis would entertain guests, the three people who had rushed to pay their respects to the deity tactfully excused themselves.On their way out, they happened to run into Zhongli and Madam Ping entering."Greetings, Streetward Rambler. I knew you'd come. And who is this?"Ganyu greeted Streetward Rambler with a smile, her expression predictable. Then, she looked at Zhongli with a hint of confusion."Sir, I haven't met you. Is this the new incarnation of an adeptus? Or perhaps a friend of the adepti and Rex Lapis who met in the marketplace?"Ganyu didn't know the details. But the "Rex Lapis" was waiting inside, so she didn't rush to ask."Please come in, Miss Angel has been waiting for you."Ganyu smiled.Zhongli and Madam Ping exchanged a bewildered glance. Then, Zhongli vaguely understood something and nodded gently to Ganyu."Thank you, you've worked hard."Zhongli suppressed the urge to pet the little Qilin's head and started towards the private room.Streetward Rambler followed closely behind. However, as she passed Ganyu, she came to her senses and gave her a look that was difficult to describe.Ganyu watched the two of them walk towards the private room, tilting her head. "What did Master Streetward Rambler mean by that? Was there anything I didn't do well enough?"Then, she explained to the two curious Qixing."You two have probably heard of the zither teacher known to the neighbors as Sister Ping, and perhaps guessed it. She's a secluded adeptus living in Liyue Harbor. Just so you know, don't disturb her excessively and disrupt her quiet cultivation. As for that gentleman... he looks a bit like Mr. Zhongli, whom I've heard about recently. I don't know him either, but he's either an adeptus or a local sage known to Rex Lapis. Anyone who can hold Rex Lapis's attention must be extraordinary. Just remember to show him some respect in the future."Keqing and Ningguang listened thoughtfully. When it came to the realm of Rex Lapis and adepti, the Qixing were no different from ordinary people: extremely interested but only partially knowledgeable.The three of them walked away, chatting.Even off to the side, Zhongli and Madam Ping sat solemnly across from Angel."Sip~~"Angel sipped her tea, the conspicuous dragon horns and tail clearly visible to Zhongli and Madam Ping.Both of them narrowed their eyes, but maintained a calm expression."Your Excellency has come a long way, and I apologize for my inconvenience. Ganyu and the Qixing are still young and don't know your true identity. Please forgive me if my hospitality was inappropriate.""There's nothing wrong with it, it's just that you're being overly nervous. I've already said I'm not interested in Liyue, I just happened to be staying here.""It's just a coincidence for you, but it's a matter of utmost importance to Liyue. I have to do this, and I hope you will understand.""Let me be frank. I'm not interested in you. However, I'm very interested in where the Salt King is going. So, could you please pass on a message for me?"Angel had explored, eaten, and seen enough of the beautiful Liyue people. She stated her purpose directly.Zhongli and Madam Ping were shocked. Zhongli, in particular, felt a heavy weight pressing on his heart.She even knows the Salt King's whereabouts... No, should I say she even knows Irminsul?A descender with the power to destroy heaven and earth is truly difficult to deal with.---Chapter 197: Sustainer of Heavenly Principles? We had a Previous Fight"I don't quite understand what you're saying."Zhongli still held onto a glimmer of hope.He had to cling to this glimmer. After weighing the situation, he considered Irminsul the most reliable option. Having made this choice, he must bear the responsibility and the price.In short, the Descender shouldn't be allowed to reach the World Tree through Liyue.Otherwise, Liyue would be causing serious trouble for their immediate superiors the moment they defected.This would be very disadvantageous for Liyue. What if the Irminsul's personality was incredibly close to a real person, and rather petty?Angel, observing Zhongli's efforts, nodded inwardly.You've learned to consider things from the World Tree's perspective. Not bad, a reliable and responsible subordinate. Working with him should be less of a hassle in the future.[Second.]World Tree Irminsul Angel also agreed.Morax is a talent. It's not his combat prowess that counts, but rather his thousands of years of experience and prestige in state governance. He'll be able to stand on his own and shoulder the responsibilities wherever he's assigned in the future.Talent like this is rare. The key isn't his current level of knowledge and governance, but his ability to shoulder responsibility. Unlike in the Honkai World, while there are plenty of capable fighters and numerous research talents, Angel has always had to shoulder the management responsibilities alone, which consumes a great deal of her energy.Angel glanced at Zhongli with admiration, then casually said, "Your world is quite interesting. Countless energy channels pave the earth, channeling factors unfavorable to humans underground and raising those beneficial to them above ground. Over the years, you alter the structure of every inch of the land, laying the foundation for the reproduction of humanity. Even more remarkable, you use these channels to collect the memories of the earth and all living things, forming a vast, immaterial, aggregated memory of civilization. Under extreme conditions, this can even reconstruct civilization after the destruction of the world. You call this structure...""Sir, be careful!"Zhongli even accidentally cracked the teacup in his hand, tea dripping from his fingertips.It's no wonder he was nervous; there had been so many precedents.A descender speaking openly about Irminsul ll was taboo, no matter how you looked at it.Who knew if the Frost Sky Nail would strike down in the next second, turning all of Liyue into a deadly place?"You must know that the eyes and ears of those above us are all-pervasive. Please... show some mercy. Liyue, a small nation with so few people, cannot bear this."Zhongli put down the broken teacup and instead picked up the teapot, politely refilling Angel's tea.Who among us understands? An untouchable Descender has arrived, openly probing our sore spots. Is that something we lesser gods can listen to? Why don't you find someone else to trouble?Madam Ping and Shenhe quietly withdrew their presence, knowing they were merely supporting roles, and didn't dare interrupt the conversation between the two great ones.Angel could sense Morax's resentment. She swung her tail to her hand, caressing the lovely emerald leaves. She said calmly, "Don't be nervous. Heavenly Principles don't dare look over here. You must know that those who gaze upon the Abyss are also gazed upon by the Abyss. It knows the difference between right and wrong... Oh, that was just a description, not to say I have any connection to the Abyss you know. I do have some interest in it, but so far, I haven't encountered it."Angel spoke with a calm and composed tone, words that made Morax's heart skip a beat.This, of course, reflected the status of the Descender.But it was also the truth.Initially, the Heavenly Principles pursued her because Angel didn't see the value. She wasn't willing to expend precious energy for a seemingly insignificant reputation.Respect? How much is that worth?I, Angel, venture into the void with value for money. I won't do anything worthless!Things are different now.On the one hand, Teyvat does have many novelties, and it also has irreplaceable value as a backup ark. Moreover, the plan to subjugate Celestia and seize the world was gradually taking shape and becoming feasible.On the other hand, even a tiny amount of Honkai energy could be fatal. Celestia had absorbed it for quite some time, enough to give birth to several Pseudo-Herrscher—without being a MANTIS and lacking the legacy of the Stigmata gene, their ability to survive this level of Honkai energy was truly uncertain.The slightest loss on Angel's side would have made the enemy's fate uncertain.Under these circumstances, if Celestia dared to look over, Angel would have thrown something at him to keep him quiet.Angel toyed with the leaves on her tail, even trying to pluck one off, tilting her head up to the light to observe the jade's color.It's beautiful! If I ever run out of money, I can pluck it off and sell it as jade. It should be worth a lot of money.Satisfied, Angel glued the leaves back to her tail. The Descender was so unhurried, but Zhongli froze and hesitated."Your Excellency and the Sustainer of the Heavenly Principles...""I've never met the Sustainer. I've only fought the Heavenly Principles themselves. They were quite formidable, but they're not feeling well either."Angel spoke with a nonchalant tone, as if she had been the one to send the Heavenly Principles fleeing, rather than just turning and running."..."Awesome.Morax could only think of that adjective.He wasn't particularly skeptical. The main thing was that this Descender was so brazen, talking about the Abyss, the Heavenly Principles, and the World Tree with such impunity. And yet, the sky over Liyue Harbor remained clear and bright, with surprisingly little reaction.That alone was enough to prove a lot."I'm going to ask, what happens if I refuse?""Nothing. I have no grudge against you and Liyue. If you refuse, I can just go and confront that civilization. That would just cause a big commotion. I'm not afraid of Celestia, but I don't want to push it too far and force it to fight me to the death. That wouldn't do any good.""I understand. I'm honored to be of assistance, Your Excellency."Zhongli said humbly.The Geo Archon has passed his youthful and reckless phase.Most importantly, the Descender Angel is very friendly.When she arrived in Liyue, she found an uninhabited hilltop, built a small house, and stayed there. She's done nothing but avoid seeing people.The only time she attacked was when she struck Adhadhaza with her sword, taking away his accumulated power over thousands of years—but honestly, if you compare millennia of accumulation with healing his erosion, any god or dragon would choose the latter without hesitation.In such a situation, only a foolish young man would show disdain to an Descender.Morax has never been stupid. For Liyue's sake, he was truly polite when it was necessary.Zhongli picked up the teapot again and graciously brewed tea for the descender.---Chapter 198: So When Will My Sister Return?Elsewhere, Maria rushed to the Pure Palace at dawn and dusk, but suddenly stopped before entering.She paused in a tree, hidden from view."Is Morax serious?"As if she had somehow received some unfortunate information, Maria couldn't help but frown.Even when alone, she couldn't skip the necessary reactions nor acting. This was Angel's professionalism.Then, with a wave of her hand, a gust of wind blew toward the Pure Palace's gates."What a strong wind!""What's going on?""Huh? It stopped."The guards at the gate exchanged glances, unaware of the dark figure passing by in the wind. They dismissed it as a sudden change in weather, and once the wind died down, they resumed their guard duties.Maria, however, had already silently entered the palace, alerting no one, and quietly arrived at Nahida's room."Knock knock!""Come in."Inside the room, Nahida stood on her tiny, ice-cream-white feet, raising her hands with difficulty as she placed the last document she had just finished on top of the pile.Then, she wiped her fair forehead and nodded to Maria, who had come from afar, a pure and lovely smile on her face. "Welcome, Your Majesty Maria, the brave and powerful Lord of Salt.""You are too polite. I am neither a god nor a dragon, and I have never reached the throne of God. Your Majesty is utterly unworthy of this title.""Your Majesty Maria, there is no need to be modest. The fact that you were chosen by that lord is a testament to your greatness.""Anyway, this is an urgent matter. So, could you introduce me to someone...?"Maria cut short the pleasantries and got straight to the point.Nahida, or more precisely, the God of Wisdom who had transformed into the Greater Lord Rukkhadevata, looked at the tall, graceful Valkyrie with picturesque features and smiled as she extended her hand."Then please follow me."Maria grasped Nahida's small hand.For a split second, the world spun, the boundary between the material world and the world of consciousness shattered.Then, Maria stood beneath the immensely majestic Irminsul—or rather, before her own people."Greetings, Irminsul. Your vastness and grandeur far surpass my imagination."Maria's pupils visibly trembled.Nahida and the Greater Lord Rukkhadevata exchanged a glance, smiling silently.Honestly, who wouldn't be struck by the first encounter with the combined memories of all living creatures on Earth, faced with such a vast presence?"Your Majesty, I come..."[Report,reply to the Descender: The World Tree agrees to contact, but only within safe boundaries.][Report, reply to the Descender: The World Tree agrees to contact, but only within safe boundaries.] "As expected of you, you already know about the Descender. Then, I have one more thing to ask of you, Morax..."[Report, the World Tree needs noallies, no contracts, and no initiative from the gods. When the time comes, the gods′ position will naturally beclear.] [Report, the World Tree needs no allies, no contracts, and no initiative from the gods. When the time comes, the gods' position will naturally be clear.] "Yes."Maria seemed surprised that the conversation would be so brief. Finally, she frowned as she said goodbye to Nahida.Nahida stood at the highest point of the Sanctuary of Surasthana, watching the legendary Valkyrie disappear into the night. She sighed softly. "Greater Lord, are we overthinking this?"[What do you mean?] "I feel Irminsul's response wasn't just for the Salt King, but perhaps for us as well. The battle between the world and Celestia will undoubtedly be a showdown beyond the Seven Archons' level, literally a world-shaking affair. This means the Seven Archons have no power to influence the outcome; all they can do is choose a side at that moment and wait for the outcome. Do we need to proactively contact the Six Archons?"[Nahida, I don′t know.] The Greater Lord Rukkhadevata, always known for her wisdom and ability to easily guide others, gave Nahida this kind of response for the first time.Nahida was stunned. The Greater Lord Rukkhadevata sighed. [Although I'm older than you, I only have a few insignificant experiences, not omniscience. I can't imagine what the game between Master Irminsul and Celestia will look like. Perhaps our efforts truly won't impact the overall situation, nor will they help Master Irminsul. But doing something is better than doing nothing, don't you think?] "You're right. That Master created us, so naturally we should strive for them and for all living things on Earth. Remaining passive is a waste of divine power... I can't make the same mistake I made five hundred years ago."Nahida nodded firmly.After once again emerging from her self-doubt and dismissing the thought of giving up, Nahida began to analyze carefully. "Irminsul can't record information about the Descender. Master World Irminsul actually deduced the Descender' existence through analysis of various sources, and this information is currently known only to us. I think we can conceal it for now... as a deterrent to the Descender. While we don't know their true strength, our omniscience is surely enough to intimidate them."[You're absolutely right.] "Greater Lord, the arrival of the Descender is unprecedented in a thousand years. Do you think this will spark a conflict between Heaven and Earth?"[It's hard to say. We don't yet understand the character and purpose of this Descender, so we can't predict whether the war will unfold as a three-way standoff, a united front between Heaven and Earth, or something else entirely. The World Tree records everything, but the Descender represents a variable no one can predict.] [Naturally, the worst-case scenario is that the Descender has reached some kind of agreement with Celestia, and the two sides are united against Irminsul.] Nahida sensed anxiety, and Rukkhadevata felt equally uneasy."Then what should we do?"We need to wait, Nahida. Until the World Tree negotiates with the Descender, we can't be sure of anything, and we can't do anything. You've become overly impatient again. The God of Wisdom should remain calm and composed.Nahida was silent for a moment, then nodded slowly.Rukkhadevata sighed inwardly. Nahida's mind was still a little immature.Of course, this wasn't Nahida's fault, but the fault of the sages who trapped her. Their arrogance and ignorance caused Nahida to miss five hundred years of growth, leaving her in many ways barely recognizable as a newly born god.Originally, Rukkhadevata had plenty of time to slowly wait for Nahida to mature.But the arrival of the Descender would inevitably accelerate the changes in Teyvat.Do they really have time to wait for the young God of Wisdom to mature enough to protect Sumeru and speak for the World Tree?"Forget it. Nahida is the God of Wisdom, and so am I. We are both terminals of the World Tree. When necessary, I can only strive to fill in all her deficiencies."The Greater Lord Rukkhadevata sighed helplessly again.The world is changing so rapidly. It must be difficult for any god with such a long history to adapt, right?..."Why do I feel like you're adjusting well, Miko?"In Inazuma, the 007 Overtime Fox, Yae Miko slumped limply on the castle tower floor, her darkly rimmed eyes staring at Raiden Ei, who was eating a dango.Raiden Ei lowered her head, blinked, and handed the dango over.Yae Miko pushed it away feebly."No, I don't have an appetite.""Oh.""Is that your attitude? Do you know how hard it's been for me these past few days combing the ley lines and purifying the filth?""Don't you have the Fatui giving you orders?"Raiden Ei tilted her head in confusion.Yae Miko was speechless."The Fatui are indeed useful. It doesn't cost money, and there's no need to worry about their safety. Just let them take over when needed, and if they break down, we can ask Snezhnaya to replace them."In short, they were pawns. And pawns required no resources or care, and brought all their own food.Where the filth is severe, where the seals are difficult to determine, let the Fatui go in and fight tooth and nail. Once the Fatui have fully understood the situation and cleared all obstacles, the shrine maidens can then proceed to repair the seals step by step.That's what Inazuma is doing now, letting the Fatui repair the holes they've created themselves."This is a contract, and Snezhnaya must fulfill it. Of course, it's all my sister's meticulous planning. Otherwise, leaving Inazuma to clean up the filth on her own, who knows how many lives would be lost and how long it would take." Raiden Ei sighed heartily.Yae Miko hummed in agreement.She worked so hard, not only because of Makoto and Guuji Kaguya's expectant eyes, but also because of those pawns she could command at will... The Fatui are truly useful, and you can see the land of Inazuma becoming clean at a visible speed.Positive feedback is key to maintaining focus, and before you know it, you'll be working yourself to exhaustion."It's almost done. The most densely populated main island of Inazuma is almost clear. After that, let the Fatui repair the Mikage Furnace and determine the status of the talisman on Yashiori Island. Once Yashiori Island is cleaned up, there will be enough land on Inazuma. We can breathe a sigh of relief and slowly plan to restore the remaining islands."At this point, even Yae, who was paralyzed by exhaustion, couldn't help but laugh.After all, this is their own country. Who wants to see this land in such a mess?Before, it was Ei who was withdrawn. Despite her noble title as a high priestess, her abilities were limited. Barely defending the main island was exhausting.Now, under Makoto and Kaguya's leadership, she felt she could truly purify all the areas she had been unable to protect for years.Then, surely, she could rest quietly in the hands or on the shoulders of those people, a carefree hand-warming fox, just like she did back then?As for the price that Snezhnaya and the Fatui would have to pay, who knew? Outsiders might sympathize, but from Inazuma's perspective, they couldn't."Speaking of which, isn't Snezhnaya going to give us the explanation they promised?""Of course, the culprit must pay with blood. Sister said the Tsaritsa wouldn't dare fool the gods, so we just have to wait. So, when will Sister come back? She's been gone for half an hour!"Raiden Ei chewed a dango, gazing longingly at the castle tower's gate."It should be soon. It's just a trip to the Tenryou Commission. Why are you starting over again?"Yae Miko rolled her eyes, then wiggled her body, leaning against Raiden Ei's lap, sighing contentedly.That Strange One... that little one will surely be sent back too, right?I wonder what Ei is going to do with it? Ha, even I don't know how to deal with it.Chapter 199: For Ayaka’s Sake, Spare My Life“Lord Preceptor, this is the latest data. The farmland within the main island of Inazuma has basically all been restored to cultivation. In fact, it’s even a bit more than before.”“It’s the data handled by that batch of Commissioners, right? I understand.”Kaguya flipped through the data Kamisato Ayato had given her. While cross-checking it with information from other channels, she spoke with a smile.“Since the Tenryou Commissioner is Ayaka’s elder brother, both the Shogun and I naturally trust you. There’s no need to be nervous.”“…Yes.”Kamisato Ayato glanced at his younger sister, who was brewing tea beside him, and nodded expressionlessly.If the Shuumatsuban had not already been turned into the Preceptor’s private force...If unfamiliar shrine maidens and Okuzome soldiers hadn’t frequently appeared at various occasions, recording who knows what...If several Bakufu clerks hadn’t suddenly been dragged away for execution...If not for these things, Ayato really might have believed the Preceptor’s words.“Feeling uneasy is normal. But don’t get stuck overthinking it. Precisely because those things exist, I can say I trust you. Every document the Bakufu issues is the Shogun’s will made manifest. Each one directly affects the vital interests and even the lives of tens of thousands of Inazuma citizens. It’s far too important, and the interests involved are far too great. None of us want to see the previous Bakufu rise again from the ashes, do we?”“Yes, Lord Preceptor.”Kamisato Ayato bowed in response.What else could he do?Even leaving aside the reality that the Preceptor stood backed by the Shogun herself, just looking at his sister Kamisato Ayaka’s current attitude—what could he, as the elder brother, possibly do?Of course, that was only a half-joke.In truth, Kamisato Ayato wholeheartedly agreed with Kaguya’s approach.The previous Bakufu lacked this layer of oversight, and so they gradually acted with impunity, breaking through all bottom lines until disaster struck.The eyes the Preceptor planted throughout the Bakufu were indeed a form of deterrence. But they were also a form of protection—cutting out tumors in time, preventing rot from spreading. Writing reverence plainly before the officials’ eyes, reminding them when they should stop. Only then could the Bakufu endure long.After reading through Inazuma’s current status reports, Kaguya exhaled.“At least it wasn’t all in vain. My thanks to you, Commissioner, and to all the Bakufu officials.”“To serve the Shogun is no hardship. It’s just…”“Hm?”“How long do I have to keep being the Tenryou Commissioner, Lord Preceptor?”Kamisato Ayato gave a wry smile.Others all said the Kamisato Clan was soaring. The younger sister favored by the Shogun could stay within Tenshukaku to serve, attending closely to the Preceptor and standing within arm’s reach of Inazuma’s highest authority. The elder brother held both the Yashiro and the Tenryou Commissions, managing all of the Bakufu’s affairs with prestige so high it could be said no one had equaled it in five hundred years.But Ayato himself felt a looming crisis.The radiance was too dazzling. Even the previous Tenryou Commissioner, reckless as he had been, had not dared to force other Commissions under the Kujou’s control. Yet the Kamisato Clan’s current power shone even brighter.The rise of the Kamisato Clan was certainly good, and Ayato naturally hoped his clan’s crest would be remembered by the world.But it had already gone too far.If it continued, glory would inevitably turn into burden. Such blinding power and status—if one day it turned back upon them, Ayato dared not imagine what fate awaited.The Kujou Clan was the best precedent.He should retreat while the tide was high. Before the Kamisato Clan made any mistakes, he had to quickly return to the simple position of Yashiro Commissioner. That was the true long-term plan for his clan.Kaguya lifted her eyes and glanced lightly at Ayato.“Are you afraid?”“Yes, I am afraid.”Even in front of his sister, seeing Kamisato Ayaka’s worried and uneasy expression, Ayato still answered truthfully.Kaguya finally closed the booklet and spoke faintly.“You are the present-day Yashiro Commissioner, inheriting an ancient legacy. After the former Tenryou and Kanjo Commissioners met their fate, you became the most noble among Inazuma’s mortals and the one closest to the Shogun. And since you truly have ability, you sit in this position with none in the Bakufu disputing it.”“I understand. My being able to sit here is all thanks to the Shogun’s grace and my ancestors’ glory.”“Then you should understand even more clearly—judged by bloodline and prestige, Inazuma has no one else fit to replace you.”For five hundred years under Raiden Ei’s rule, guided by the ideal of eternity, the system of bloodline inheritance and generational succession had become a law everyone abided by.The Tenryou and Kanjo Commissioners could die, even have their bloodlines extinguished, because Kaguya’s first charge against them was betrayal of the Shogun. In Inazuma, nothing is more serious than betraying the Shogun.But the one to lead the Bakufu still had to be of long and noble lineage.Indeed, Raiden Ei could appoint anyone to lead the Bakufu. The Shogun’s authority was unquestionable, the blood on the execution grounds not yet cold, and the Bakufu officials would surely obey.But in their hearts, they would instinctively look down upon that person, thinking: he is neither noble nor great—why should we wholeheartedly submit to him?Doing things willingly versus obeying on the surface but despising in the heart—the difference in effect was like heaven and earth. Especially now, just after Inazuma’s turmoil had ended, inefficiency was absolutely unacceptable.In short, status could be granted, but the psychological legitimacy that makes everyone sincerely submit could not be conjured from nothing. This was not simple servility or baseness, but history, culture, and the inertia of human hearts.Breaking that inertia was not something that could be done overnight.In today’s Inazuma, only Kamisato Ayato combined virtue, bloodline, ability, and prestige. Only he could be accepted by all Inazuma people as Tenryou Commissioner and overall head of the Bakufu.Ayato, of course, understood this reality, but still hesitated.“Is there no way, from among those innocent branch families of the Kujou…”“There are people, of course. But do you think you can find someone whose bloodline and ability could rival yours?”“…”Ayato did not wish to boast.But truth be told, in the Inazuma of before, under the crushing pressure of the Tenryou and Kanjo Commissions, he was the only one who could still stand his ground and maneuver with ease.Ayato’s expression collapsed into a pitifully resentful look“Lord Preceptor, for Ayaka’s sake, spare my life.”“Cut it out, disgusting.”Kaguya waved her hand in irritation.You’re not some pretty girl, so why put on a pitiful act for me? Do you think I’d pity you?“Kaguya…”Kamisato Ayaka also put on a worried, frightened expression, those frail eyes looking exactly like a cornered little deer.Kaguya was silent for a moment, then rubbed her brow.“You pick someone yourself. Train them. As long as they’re suitable, I’ll arrange the process of granting a surname or adoption.”“Yes, Lord Preceptor!”Kamisato Ayato bowed respectfully with a beaming smile.---Chapter 200: Then Let Makoto Use ItOn the way back, Kaguya couldn't help but tap Kamisato Ayaka on the forehead with her folding fan."Do you really think he's afraid? He's clearly confident!"Of course, the fear of backlash was real.But the Kamisato family is simple, currently consisting of only two siblings. The collateral branches had been completely wiped out under the long-term pressure of the other two commissioners.Now that the brother is clear-headed and the sister is pure and innocent, and she's protected by the Imperial Preceptor, what trouble could they cause?Backlash is a long, long time in the future."The Kamisato family doesn't cling to power. When the time is right, they will return to their position in an orderly manner... He's just making this clear to me. It's just a show of loyalty. With so many ulterior motives and his roundabout tactics, it's no wonder even the Shogun doesn't like talking to him.""My brother has no choice. He's suffered a lot for the Kamisato clan and me over the years."Kamisato Ayaka touched her forehead and looked at Kaguya weakly.Actually, it's understandable if you think about it. Given the unbridled atmosphere among the upper class, Kamisato Ayaka, a lady of noble birth with such a beautiful appearance and a stellar reputation, hadn't been pursued by any young men. Kamisato Ayaka must have done a lot behind the scenes.His deep love for his sister is undeniable, and Kamisato Ayaka would certainly protect her brother.Kaguya was speechless for a moment, holding her forehead."Okay, okay, okay. Since you've said that, I can only do nothing.""Brother is doing this for the long-term benefit of the shogunate. He really can't shoulder so much on his own, or he'll tire himself out sooner or later.""Who wouldn't be tired at this hour? Oh, maybe the Shogun isn't..."The puppet, Inazuma's sword, is also the source of Kaguya's legitimacy in controlling Inazuma. Being able to sit still is her greatest contribution.She truly doesn't need to be tired.Mainly, there's no suitable position for her to be tired.In any case, we should just get back home quickly. Otherwise, who knows how long that guy would wait, maybe even see through Tenshukaku's gate.Kaguya naturally took Kamisato Ayaka's hand.Kamisato Ayaka smiled sweetly.Sara, carrying her sword and bow, walked behind with an expressionless face, like an emotionless puppet.…The trio returned to Tenshukaku.Inside, Sara could relieve herself of her guarding duties, so she excused herself and returned to her room—she would likely be in the training grounds soon to practice her martial arts alone, as was her daily routine.Kamisato Ayaka also went to the kitchen to prepare dinner.Kaguya ascended the stairs to the highest pavilion."Sister, you're back!"As expected, Raiden Ei stood tall and straight at the staircase to greet her.She held her back straight, her delicate face stern, maintaining the dignity of the Electro Archon."Well, he's quite obedient. At least he didn't run to Tenshukaku. A dignified Raiden Shogun waiting for a national advisor at the gate all day long—one or two times is fine, but if he does it all the time, it's bound to arouse suspicion sooner or later."That's right, sister!"At that moment, Kaguya seemed to see the same wife's face as the Herrscher of Rice, with dog ears appearing on her head and the phantom of a wagging dog tail behind her."Hmm..."Kaguya held her forehead and shook her head, clearing the illusion from her mind.Then, with a wave of her folding fan, the actual shadow of Raiden floated out, stretching lazily in the free air.The light in Raiden Ei's eyes could no longer be suppressed, and the phantom dog tail behind her wagged even more vigorously."Snap!""Kaguya?""It's okay. I'm a little dizzy."Kaguya touched her forehead and pushed the sense of déjà vu out of her mind. When she looked again, she saw nothing but untainted clarity in those sparkling, large eyes.Sister complex is truly terrifying, especially when it's been going on for thousands of years.Kaguya grumbled inwardly as she continued toward the center of the pavilion, where she found Kitsune Saiguu sitting at a table. A pink-furred little fox, its limbs and tail fully spread out, rested on the table. Kitsune Saiguu rubbed its body back and forth, as if giving it a full-body massage."Hmm?"Kaguya leaned over and gently touched the little fox's nose with her folding fan."Stop it, I'm tired."Yae Miko moved the fan away with her little paw, then lay back and gave Kaguya a foxy look.Kaguya smiled, sat down, and poured a glass of water, putting it next to the little fox. "Thank you for your hard work.""It's not hard work, it's just a hard life. If you don't work, that log over there will chop the fox again.""Don't be bitter. Finish it soon, and everyone can relax sooner. Of course, just do your best."Kaguya picked up the little fox, who looked like she was playing dirty, and gently stroked her in her hand. Feeling the incredibly smooth touch, Kaguya's eyes curved with a smile.Petting a fox brings much joy to life.Kitsune Saiguu, newly addicted to petting, felt a little jealous and quietly reached out to the little fox."Pah!"Kaguya slapped her hand away.Kitsune Saiguu rubbed the back of her sore hand, a look of resentment in her eyes.Yae Miko rested in the soft, delicate hand, squinting her eyes in enjoyment. She watched Kitsune Saiguu's frustration and the sisters, Raiden Makoto and Raiden Ei, smirking, and wagged her tail with delight."It's... this feeling..."The little fox closed her eyes, suppressing the liquid that was about to burst out.What was the hardship? What was the fatigue?That was the feeling. As long as she could stay, as long as she could hold on, she would gladly risk her fox life.Yae Miko was exhausted, her defenses down. Those present were either her teachers, or demons far superior to her. Some emotions, even if the fox didn't express them, were clearly felt by the others.Kaguya smiled and petted the fox. The others sat down quietly. They hadn't quite adjusted to the current perfect atmosphere, but they would eventually.After a while, Kaguya petted the fox and spoke, "I saw a letter from Snezhnaya today. They'll be sending two Harbingers. One is [The Doctor] Dottore, the Second of the Fatui, and the other is [The Balladeer] Scaramouche, the Sixth. According to Snezhnaya, these two are the masterminds behind all the Inazuma incidents."A moment of silence fell.Then Yae Miko raised her head from Kaguya's palm. She skipped the topic of the Balladeer and asked in surprise."Second? Dottore? This man must be very important to Snezhnaya, yet the Tsaritsa is willing to hand him over?""Because she must."Kaguya's eyes darkened. Knowing that the people present either had only a vague understanding or were simply unable to think, she explained."It may seem that her decision is merely an explanation to Inazuma, but in reality, she truly aims to appease all the Archons. She established the contract before them all, and the Thousand Winds of Mondstadt are omnipresent, and the Irminsul records everything in the world... That's why I have complete confidence in this contract. If the Cryo Archon harbors any hope, she will first offend Inazuma, then defy the might of the Anemo Archon and the Dendro Archon, then defy the Geo Archon, the Archon of contracts, and finally the rest of the gods."Kaguya's lips curled slightly, her expression bright and gentle.The others felt an inexplicable chill.Oh my god, that carefully planned divine meeting had such dire consequences?Just by imagining it, one could sense the utter unease the Cryo Archon must have felt as she came to her senses.Then they were relieved that the one who had come up with this plan was Kaguya, the true reincarnation of Raiden."As expected of a sister!""Don't rush to praise me. The Doctor has committed countless sins. He has harmed not just Inazuma but almost every nation. Therefore, he must die. This is both for Inazuma's own sake and as a small token of gratitude to the gods. However, from what I understand, this Doctor has numerous clones and is highly favored by the Fatui, making him difficult to bring to justice in every sense of the word. To be on the safe side, I've written to the Dendro Archon and the Anemo Archon, asking them to help investigate... If necessary, Ei, please shoot a few more arrows to send him off."Kaguya continued to smile, but her warmth was absent.The entire world of Teyvat was already part of the Angels' plans. And Dottore was a madman, a very capable one at that. The world controlled by Angels didn't need such a madman.In terms of talent, there's Raiden Ei, who refined the puppet; Guizhong, the military commander who orbited Liyue; Cloud Retainer, the master of mechanical engineering who partnered with Guizhong; Rene, who deduced the world formula and the salvation plan and is likely still alive; Albedo, who's still growing; Lisa, who tied her own hands and feet... Honestly, Teyvat has a wealth of technical talent.No matter how capable Dottore is, he can't compare to the wealth of these people.So, let's send him off. He's already committed enough evil, and deserves his punishment—and it's a good thing that after his death, Irminsul can fully absorb his accumulated knowledge over the years, making a contribution to humanity."Yes, sister!"Raiden Ei, of course, didn't hesitate. On the contrary, seeing Kaguya smiling so coldly and majestically, she felt as if she were seeing the calculating, rational, and ruthless Raiden Makoto from her battles.Raiden Ei's fighting spirit instantly soared, and she couldn't wait to fire those arrows for her sister.Kaguya raised her hand and touched Ei's head, calming her excitement. She continued, "[The Doctor], that's all. Regarding [the Balladeer], I heard you created that puppet?""...Yes."Ei's mood suddenly dropped, as if a bucket of cold water had been poured over her.She felt uneasy, as if she had done something wrong.Kaguya calmly asked, as if she hadn't noticed."Then why did he end up in another country?""Because he was too fragile to bear a Gnosis, I left him outside, and then... I was busy crafting the Shogun and neglected to take care of him.""Not just neglect, but outright forgetfulness, right?"Kaguya looked at Ei expressionlessly."I'm sorry, I was wrong!"Ei immediately bowed her head, apologizing to her sister and lord."Alas."Kaguya sighed. Ei was the Balladeer's creator, and if anything, everything the Balladeer did was her responsibility. It was all a mess, a bit like the Inazuma incident."Bang!"Kaguya swung her folding fan down with great force, striking Ei on the head.Ei remained kneeling before Kaguya, taking it motionlessly.Then, Kaguya gently waved her hand."Get up.""Yes."Ei sat up straight. There was a dent in the floor where her forehead had rested, but she herself was completely untouched.The Shogun puppet's strength was so great that Kaguya was speechless for a moment. Then she said:"A puppet built to carry divine power, how fragile can it be? Even if it can't carry a full god, a wisp of divine will shouldn't be a problem, right?""Of course, sister!""Okay. Then I'll modify it and give it to Makoto. It's a problem for you to be locked up in my inner world all day.""Huh?" ×2Raiden Makoto and Raiden Ei tilted their heads in unison, their faces etched with identical bewildered expressions.

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Chapter 201 Please Leave Some for Me"Is this really okay?"Earlier, Kaguya was scolding her errant sister, and no one dared to interrupt. But after the atmosphere calmed, Kitsune Saiguu hesitated and questioned Kaguya's proposed solution."Kaguya, we've discussed this before. The truth about you and Makoto is truly..."Kitsune Saiguu hesitated, then pointed upward.Kaguya lowered her eyes and stroked the fox in her palm. "Those high above may have keen eyes and ears, but as long as we don't exploit their sensitive spots and speak recklessly, they won't have the luxury of constantly looking down. When they're not looking, we don't care what we do. If they were to look, it wouldn't make much difference whether Makoto is in my body or in the puppet... Makoto, what do you think?""I think the one who brought us back this way must have considered the eyes and ears of those above. In my opinion, as long as we don't merge into one, and don't completely transform into the Makoto of the past, there should be no problem."After careful consideration, Raiden Makoto spoke slowly.In fact, it's hard to say whether the Heavenly Principles care about the Seven Archons. To put it bluntly, the living Seven Archons might not hold much weight in their eyes, let alone the dead.Even if the Heavenly Principles did look, all they would see would be a human and a puppet. Would it be worth their careful observation and comparison, specifically focusing on their similarities to the original Electro Archon?In short, don't overestimate yourself. Kaguya nodded."That's no problem. Actually, I'm worried about us being so close, and being born from the same body. What if we instinctively fuse? Then...""If we suddenly revert to our full form, the godly aura won't be concealed, and they'll... discover our rebirth. That would be catastrophic!"Raiden Makoto gasped, immediately realizing the severity of the situation.This isn't without precedent.For example, at first, when she was deep in the dream suddenly entered Kaguya's body. Her memories after that are a bit hazy, and now that she thought about it, they might have almost merged.At least until the Irminsul officially breaks up with the Heavenly Principles and provides shelter for Inazuma, Raiden Makoto must not reappear in her entirety.That would challenge the bottom line of the Heavenly Principles!"Ei, I leave it to you. Build me a place to stay. I really should separate from Kaguya, otherwise, if something goes wrong, neither of us can handle it.""Yes, sister!"Raiden Ei was still a little confused, but nodded decisively.It wasn't until later, during dinner, that Raiden Ei realized—was this a physical sister plus one?Anyway, she should quickly review the Shogun's blueprints and look through the materials inventory from back then.If I were to build a body for my sister, should I use my own model as a reference? Should I make it slightly larger, slightly smaller, or exactly the same?Raiden Ei knew she should be thinking more about the collapse of the country. But her sister had spoken; the situation was set and irreversible. And the prospect of being able to touch both of her sisters simultaneously made it impossible for her to think about anything else."Are you going to sleep or not? If not, get out! Stop tossing and turning in bed. You're tired, but I am!"Yae Miko kicked Raiden Ei's butt from under the covers. Raiden Ei then lay still and settled down.As for whether she ultimately fell asleep, her roommates, Yae Miko and Kitsune Saiguu, didn't bother to ask....Three days later, the envoy of Snezhnaya who had traveled a long way, arrived respectfully at the Tenshukaku, presenting the Tsaritsa's letter with both hands. He also brought the Doctor and the Balladeer, frozen in ice.Raiden Ei took the letter and glanced at it."This explanation is acceptable."Raiden Ei turned her gaze to Kaguya.Kaguya raised her hand, a gentle breeze blew into the pavilion, and she caught the letter, conjured by the power of the Anemo Archon. Simultaneously, a nearby potted plant sprouted green leaves, extending its length and releasing a lush, verdant leaf into Kaguya's hands.The mortals around her held their breath, knowing this was a miracle from the Anemo Archon and the Dendro Archon.Kaguya held the letter and leaf in both hands and bowed, handing them to Raiden Ei. "Please make the decision, Shogun."Ei took the item and snorted coldly."The Cryo Archon is still too young, and she's done things in a dishonest way. As a senior, let me lend her a hand."With a stern and impersonal expression, the Electro Archon gleamed with lightning in her eyes, shattering the Doctor along with the ice. In front of the Inazuman and Snezhnayan people, she made no secret of her contempt for the Cryo Archon.Then she vanished in a flash of lightning.Then, the sky darkened, dark clouds gathered.The overwhelming force of the lightning made people panic, their chests clenched, and they felt breathless.Then, a torrent of lightning, illuminating the sky, broke through the clouds and surged towards Snezhnaya....Mondstadt."Ding\\"The melodious harp music suddenly paused.Venti clutching his harp as he looked up at the sky in Inazuma's direction. A hint of a smile flickering in his eyes."So full of life."The Anemo Archon was always kind, but he couldn't find any sympathy for Dottore.The Fatui were kidnapping children from all over the world, and Dottore's experiments were the main source of supply. Mondstadt was also a victim, and the Fatui hadn't stopped until Wendy became active again as the second Anemo Archon.For this reason alone, Venti's awakening didn't bring a fierce wind to Snezhnaya; he was already thinking about the overall situation.Sympathy? What a joke!"Well, that's all for today's performance. The Angel's Share is about to get busy, so hurry and grab a seat!"Wendy reached for the hat on the ground.Then, another little hand grabbed the hat first.Turning it over, she poured out the Mora inside.Then, a little girl with blond hair and drooping braids squatted over the pile of Mora and began counting them expressionlessly.She moved quickly. Before Venti could recover from his dumbfoundedness, she had already taken the agreed-upon fine and placed the remaining Mora back in his hat."Please leave me a little more!"The bard immediately dropped to the ground and grabbed Angel's ankle as she turned to leave.Angel who happened to be passing by lowered her head, clutching the Mora she was about to hand over to the Knights, and frowned."This is the fine, the agreed-upon proportion.""But... but I haven't eaten in days. I'm starving!""No, no!"Angel gritted her teeth, pulled her foot free, and sprinted away."Tsk! Are all Mondstadt girls so cold-blooded these days?"Venti sighed in frustration, clutching his remaining Mora.Before he could get up, the little girl from before scurried back, gently placing a bag of bread in front of him, and then scurried off again."Eh?"Venti climbed up with the bread, thought for a moment, then sat down on a nearby bench and began to eat."Hmm\ Delicious\\~"Barbatos sighed with enjoyment, as if he had never tasted such delicious bread before.---Chapter 202: This Is All for Azhdaha's GoodGreen eyes glanced sideways, catching sight of a pale, expressionless face, only half visible.As if relieved by Venti finishing his meal, the half-face slowly retreated.The sound of the girl's hopping footsteps drifted away on the wind, along with the gentle thud of Mora against her chest and the innocent tune she hummed softly.Venti dropped half a loaf of bread into his mouth and chewed, gazing at the corner of the wall where Angie had been secretly observing. A bright smile spread across his face."From the soil of sin and terror, a flower of purity and kindness can also grow, eventually finding its home in a warm garden. Fate isn't always so cold and cruel, is it?""Well, this is a story worth telling!""It teaches us that even in darkness, we must never give up our tenderness. May the winds of the world blow through every corner, guiding you and bringing you to your own light.""Ding~~"Venti casually played the lyre and popped another small piece of bread into his mouth.Then he smiled.This bread is so sweet....Sumeru, Palace of Pure Goodness.Nahida had just sent off the Great Sage she had chosen... ahem, Sage Alhaitham, and suddenly turned to look out the window.The sky over there was in the direction of Inazuma."I didn't expect that Dottore would be finished before I even had time to settle things. Are all militant gods so decisive?"[That's because you haven't seen Morax in his youth.]The Greater Lord Rukkhadevata's chuckling voice echoed in her mind, causing Nahida to blink in surprise."Rukkhadevata, what would happen if the Geo Archon in his youth encountered the Electro Archon?"[He would charge directly into Snezhnaya, stone spear in hand. First, he would suppress the Cryo Archon with a single volley, then bring out all the Fatui Harbingers. Those relevant would be blasted to pieces, while those irrelevant would be beaten half to death or turned into stone statues, depending on whether they irritated him or not.] "Huh?"The little Dendro Archon displayed a bewildered expression, showing a look of inexperience.The Greater Lord Rukkhadevata's smile deepened as she continued. [He would probably spend the morning completing these tasks. At noon, he would summon the gods and tell them that the Cryo Archon wasn't very sensible, so he decided to suppress her for x number of years, hoping they would learn from her. Then he would go home for dinner in the afternoon... something like that.]"I can't believe he's so... uh, I mean, so wise and decisive, haha."The corner of the little Dendro Archon's mouth twitched, and she said thoughtfully."But he was certainly quite intimidating when he first came to Sumeru City. Thinking about it that way, it doesn't seem impossible."[Nahida.]"Hmm?"[That time it was truly your fault.]Even as Nahida's parent, the Greater Lord Rukkhadevata had to acknowledge this fact.Nahida was silent, staring at her fingertips, her head bowed weakly.Today, the little Dendro Archon had fallen into a state of isolation....Liyue."Hmm?"Zhongli suddenly looked up at the sky.It wasn't that he was watching the arrows of Beelzebul.What kind of spectacle hadn't our Lord of Geo seen?The Electro Archon was just sniping the enemy from a distance; there was no need to make a fuss.It was mainly because he felt like someone was talking about him behind his back. But then he thought, where in Liyue wouldn't there be people discussing the Geo Archon?Zhongli thought he might be overthinking it, so he turned back and continued selecting jade from the stalls, choosing the right shape, size, and appearance."Mr. Zhongli, what do you think of this piece?""It's a little small, and not quite as round.""What about this one?""The transparency and color aren't quite as good. Let me take a closer look."Zhongli continued to examine the jade on the table, unable to find a favorite.He primarily wanted to find a stone that would suit Azhdaha's current size.After all, it felt strange to carry a round stone in his pocket or arms all the time.If he had an extra one, he could have two stones to twirl around in his hands. That would be normal, and quite elegant, in keeping with the Geo Archon's demeanor."Buzz buzz buzz!"The stone in his arms vibrated strongly.Zhongli patted it gently. "You're looking forward to it too, aren't you, old friend?"His tone was filled with sincerity and earnestness.After all, Azhdaha had been trapped in the sealed dimension for thousands of years, unable to even walk, let alone turn over.After such a long time, now free, he must be eager to move, right?This is all for Azhdaha's own good!The struggle with Azhdaha thousands of years ago, the constant calls for his sanity with no response, the desperate fight from the Chasm to the skies, and finally, enduring the heart-wrenching pain of sealing him personally beneath Mt. Hulao, and later, when no one was around, shedding tears before the Dragon-Queller Tree... none of this had anything to do with it.It was truly all for Azhdaha's own good."Buzz buzz buzz!"The stone in his arms vibrated even more violently.Zhongli didn't even bother to understand the specifics; it was a bit cheesy after all.He simply felt that his old friend was truly looking forward to it."Don't worry, don't worry, it's almost done."Zhongli whispered to the shaking stone, his lips curling up unconsciously in a gentle, elegant smile.As for the Electro Archon's divine power that had just brushed past Liyue's skies...It didn't matter.There was still a Descender lurking at home. The two Electro Archon sisters could do whatever they pleased, as long as they didn't land on Liyue's soil, Zhongli didn't even bother to look up....In Snezhnaya, the familiar thunder rumbled down over the capital.Then it split into dozens of beams, slamming down in different corners of Snezhnaya's borders.Far more powerful and terrifying than the previous arrows, this time it was true divine power.At the same time, in the executive council chamber, the Harbingers fell into a remarkable silence."Dottore won't appear again. The same goes for Scaramouche."After a long silence, Pierro stated this fact.Then, he was greeted by an even more deadly silence from the Harbingers.Had their spirit and enthusiasm been severely dented?Pierro thought this and sighed inwardly.'Sigh...'Honestly, how could Snezhnaya not know that they'd been tricked by Inazuma?They certainly didn't realize it at first, but it's been so long since the contract was signed, and no matter how confused they were then, they've come to their senses now.But even if they'd realized from the beginning that it was Inazuma's trick, the result would still be the same.Some things weigh nothing on the scale, but once weighed, they weigh a thousand pounds. When the Electro Archon unleashed those six arrows, humiliating herself and laying the whole matter bare, Snezhnaya and the Cryo Archon had no choice.The Tsaritsa wouldn't risk her life against the Electro Archon, and certainly wouldn't sit idly by and watch herself completely lose the trust of the Seven Archons, bringing the five-hundred-year plan to a halt at this final step.The price to pay was that handing over the Doctor and the Balladeer would severely damage the morale of the Harbingers.Everyone knew the Tsaritsa couldn't protect them from the Archons. When they leave the country and truly begin their quest for the Gnosis of the Archons, life and death will depend solely on their own abilities.But there's a huge difference between knowing it in their hearts and seeing it clearly—especially this time, their sacrifices weren't even in the process of seizing the Gnosis, but simply forced by the power of the Electro Archon to surrender their own people.Even with this consequence, Pierro still recognized the Tsaritsa's decision. Morale could be restored slowly; at least the Harbingers wouldn't betray her and would continue to serve the Tsaritsa's ideals.But if they didn't surrender, it would be the end of their plans."Scaramouche's power and influence will be dismantled, with most of it handed over to Arlecchino. As for Dottore... his position is crucial, and a new talent must be selected to take his place. If you have suitable candidates, whether or not they're from Snezhnaya, please recommend them to me, and I'll carefully consider their case."Pierro got down to business, trying to elevate the atmosphere slightly.He was met with silence, and the Harbingers' thoughts were hard to discern. Pierro didn't insist, continuing."The sacrifices of Dottore and Scaramouche will not be in vain. We will remember their contributions, as will the Tsaritsa. The plan to seize the Gnosis will proceed. Rosalyne, in Mondstadt, will secure the first one for us, but it will take some time. The biggest variable standing in our way right now is, without a doubt, Inazuma."Pierro's cold, sharp gaze swept across the faces of the Harbingers, finally resting on the Knave's.Arlecchino knew it was her turn to speak."Inazuma is not weak. Even if we exclude the impossible enemy, the Electro Archon, there are still several masters under her command who are unmatched by non-Harbingers. I saw five or six of them at the Divine Feast alone, and I don't know how many were absent. In my opinion, the biggest variable here is...""The sudden appearance of Inazuma's Imperial Prefector, Kaguya Houraisan."Pierro took over the Knave's words with a cold tone. He spoke with conviction."Based on our observations over the past five hundred years, Beelzebul, the Electro Archon, is not the type to be shrewdly calculating, contrary to historical records. Perhaps the historical records over-embellished her, or perhaps some unknown event five hundred years ago changed her. In short, a scheme like the Divine Feast, which severs all ties yet exploits the situation and leaves no room for defense, is not something Beelzebul could pull off.""I think so. This Imperial Preceptor is formidable. Not only does she appear intelligent, but she's also very powerful. Pierro, with all due respect, I feel she might be even more powerful than you.""Really? Then she's indeed the biggest variable, and requires special attention... Let's set the tone: no matter which Harbinger is assigned to Inazuma's mission in the future, their first priority will be to please Kaguya Houraisan. In other words, we should gather information on her preferences and begin trying to curry her favor."Pierro's words almost veered 180 degrees.However, the vast majority of the Harbingers were not surprised at all.The few who were stunned quickly reacted. To be appointed Imperial Preceptor, possessing the special qualities described by Arlecchino, this person must be very special in the eyes of the Electro Archon. She's likely one of her most trusted confidants.She's powerful, so powerful that even the Harbingers might not be able to stand up to her. And after the Divine Feast, no one dared to challenge the Electro Archon again.With such a figure untouchable, isn't flattery the only option?"I have a candidate for Dottore's successor.""I'll recommend someone too. You can take a closer look.""I'll take Scaramouche's spare parts.""I think it's time to decide on Liyue's candidate..."Gradually, the Harbingers regained their composure, and one after another, they began to discuss business.Outside the meeting room, a biting cold wind blew through the midwinter air.Some of these winds blew over the areas shattered by lightning. However, many of these areas were hidden in places unknown even to the other Harbingers. Therefore, it seemed unlikely that anyone could properly handle Dottore's affairs.Meanwhile, Irminsul summarized all the information on the Dottore segments and nodded with satisfaction."It's a good quantity. We've made a profit."---Chapter 203: The same goes for Dottore? That's all right then.Fontaine, Palace Memorias.While doing her chores, Eylse suddenly looked up and glanced toward the sky over Inazuma and Snezhnaya.Then, as if nothing had happened, she averted her gaze and continued making her special cake.Painting, seasoning, assembling—and soon, a beautiful cake was complete. It smelled sweet, a masterpiece of both deliciousness and artistry—but for some reason, every time Furina ate it, her expression was particularly subtle.Could the Melusine's senses really be that strange?【I don't know, I wasn't there, but it looks beautiful from your perspective.】【I don't know, I wasn't there...】【I don't know...】Angel's daily routine of repeating herself began again.Eylse blinked, unsure of what Furina's cake looked like.But whatever, as long as it tasted good, that was all that mattered....In the living room, Furina stared at the holy sword on the table and bit her thumb for the umpteenth time."Holy Sword, unite as one, and survive the disaster... As a mortal, I certainly can't merge everyone into my body, but as the god's alter ego, I can definitely do it. But how do I contact her?"Furina's eyes flickered as she slowly turned her head, glancing toward the nearby window.Her chambers were still quite high enough.At least, it guaranteed that a normal person would die if they jumped from the window.Then, Furina shuddered violently and shook her head, shaking off the dangerous thought.It wasn't that she was afraid of death.Okay, she was a little afraid.But if the Holy Sword truly had that effect, if Arlecchino's plan truly succeeded, and if her death truly allowed her alter ego to emerge and complete it, then Furina would truly overcome her fear and leap.Unfortunately, none of these "ifs" could be fully confirmed.In contrast, if the "Hydro Archon" Furina fell to her death from a high building, if such an event occurred, the previous five hundred years of planning would be completely ruined. That was another plan she'd promised herself, one she'd promised would succeed."Huh—"Furina let out a long sigh.For a moment, she couldn't tell whether the sigh was due to regret at not being able to confirm the plan's feasibility, or relief at having given up on that dangerous idea."Lady Furina, cake.""Ah? Oh, okay."Furina took the cake, picked up the fork, and shoved it straight into her mouth.This time, there was no struggle with the food's appearance; she simply ate it.But Eylse knew this wasn't just Furina's habit. In fact, for the past few days, Furina had been in a state of constant resistance and passive acceptance towards the appearance of food. It was impossible to predict how she would eat until she had tried it.Furina was still struggling with the plan, the truth of the prophecy.Eylse thought, perhaps she should find something to keep her occupied, or else the child would become insane....Inazuma, inside the castle tower.Scaramouche gradually regained consciousness.'Am I still alive?'In fact, from the moment Raiden shot that arrow at Snezhnaya, Scaramouche had foreseen his fate.As expected, he would occasionally run into colleagues who had "accidentally passed by" during those few days.Scaramouche remained silent about this.As a Harbinger, he could call the shots within the Fatui with impunity. But once his stance shifted, the Fatui became a monstrous force capable of suffocating him, leaving him with nowhere to escape.What? The same fate befell Dottore? That's all right, Scaramouche felt relieved.Later, the Tsaritsa's avatar and Pierro arrived before him. Scaramouche didn't bother to listen to their specific conversation, but he remembered their friendly attitude.As his body froze, a wave of resentment and hatred welled up.'I haven't ascended the throne yet, haven't slapped that woman's face, haven't incinerated all that disgusting stuff! Just like that, is it over?'Scaramouche didn't want to admit it. But before his consciousness faded, he felt a sense of relief, a sense of release."You really don't look like a god."In the final moments, Scaramouche simply looked at the Tsaritsa and Pierro coldly.What he meant to say was, "You don't look like that woman."But it didn't matter. It was all over—or so Scaramouche had thought.Then, in the castle tower he had only entered at birth, he opened his eyes again."It's you!"The puppet subconsciously became agitated, wanting to reach out and strike the woman who had been haunting his nightmares for years.But he couldn't move.Yes, this body was crafted by this woman, after all. No matter how much Dottore experimented and modified it, he couldn't change the fundamental structure of the divine puppet. In other words, this woman knew all his weaknesses and could easily disable him.Besides, even if he could move, what would it matter?He hadn't achieved the promise Dottore had made, hadn't ascended to the throne of god.A mere abandoned puppet couldn't possibly withstand a casual blow from this woman, could he?The puppet gave up struggling, staring at Raiden Ei with cold, disgusted eyes.Raiden Ei watched him silently for a long time before speaking."It's been a long time. You've changed a lot since back then..."It wasn't the appearance that had changed. Even if it wasn't a perfect creation like the Shogun, a divine puppet remains unchanged for millennia.What had changed was what lay inside the puppet.In Raiden Ei's memory, Scaramouche was a simple, weak-willed, naive child. He was completely different from the man before her now, filled with rage and distortion.Raiden Ei felt a complex emotion.Scaramouche sneered."Oh? It's just a mere defective piece you casually discarded, and you care?""You are indeed a defective piece.""You!!"Scaramouche's anger grew even more intense.Raiden Ei simply stared at him quietly, raised her hand to her chest, and spoke frankly."Only the Shogun, with this divine body you see before you, is my perfect creation. Against the goal of an eternal, unchanging divine body, you are truly a defective piece.""Baalzebul!!!""You're too fragile. No matter how refined and assembled mortal materials are, they can never reach a level strong enough to bear the will of a god. Not only is your body fragile, but you shed tears at birth, proving your will is equally weak. To me at the time, it was truly a failure among failures."Raiden Ei recounted the truth.Scaramouche's expression had become incredibly gloomy and frantic, nearly losing control.Raiden Ei paused, then continued."But it's precisely because of that tear that I no longer consider you a puppet. You have a heart, emotions, a brand new living being. If it were just a puppet, a failure that should be dismantled or discarded. But with a living being, I don't know what to do."---Chapter 204: Just a Small Problem"...Why are you telling me all this?"Scaramouche wanted to deny it.But after hating Raiden Ei for so many years, he'd also secretly studied her. He knew this woman wasn't good at lying."I just felt I should tell you."Raiden Ei lowered her eyes, reminiscing about the past, and said slowly."Actually, I should have told you back then, but I was so lost in what I thought was eternity that I had no time for anything else. I created you, but I failed to guide you correctly and in time. I was wrong."Scaramouche was stunned, then burst into laughter. "Ha? Hahaha! Baal, are my ears still good? You actually say you're wrong? You actually tell me you're wrong? Haha..."Scaramouche's laughter gradually died down.Again, he knew Baal wouldn't lie.So, from the very beginning, his desire to become a god was just a fantasy?Did Baal see him as a living being, not a failed puppet incapable of godhood?"So what? Baal, I don't care what you think! Don't think I don't know. You're just using this rhetoric to justify your actions!""I'm telling you this not because I want you to care, nor to justify it. I simply feel it's important to tell you. Regardless of the initial cause and effect, your ending is already determined. All I can do is tell you everything you need to know, so you can walk through it clearly."Raiden Ei shook her head gently, her expression as stone-faced and impersonal as a clay statue clad in gold. Her tone was devoid of any emotion.But she wasn't like this in front of Kaguya and Makoto.Only those who truly knew her could tell that Raiden Ei was in a bad mood."This is the information that Kaguya's Imperial Master... has researched. I guarantee it as the Electro Archon. See for yourself."Scaramouche discovered that he could move.But it was only movement. He still had no power, and he still couldn't do anything. Looking at the book in his hand, Scaramouche was silent for a long time, but had no choice but to begin reading.【In the beginning, the Great Lord Narukami, Lord of Thunder, pursued the path of eternity and began to forge a divine body capable of carrying the eternal truth and enduring eternity...】In chronological order, with Scaramouche at the center, the book recorded hundreds of years of history.It included Scaramouche's birth, his being sealed away in the Shakkei Pavilion by Raiden Ei, his departure from the Shakkei Pavilion due to the intrusion of the samurai Katsuragi, and his life among the residents of Tatarasuna, where he spent the happiest years of his life."Tsk!"Scaramouche scoffed as he recalled that memory. Even he couldn't understand the emotion behind it. He only said,"Just some boring memories. Let me see what this means... Hmm?"The record differed from his memory.A strange name was inserted.The historical record then began to disconnect from Scaramouche's memories."Impossible!"Scaramouche began to panic. He quickly scanned and flipped the pages, reading through a history so utterly different from what he had known.Finally, he froze in panic."This... this is impossible... I gave Niwa Hisahide's heart... that was Hisahide's heart..."The heart that Dottore had given him wasn't a betrayal of a friend, it wasn't selfishness, hypocrisy, cunning, or a curse. And yet, foolish as he was, he hadn't trusted his best friend when he should have.Yes, that was Dottore. I knew exactly what kind of person Dottore was! Why hadn't I ever doubted him?In an instant, the world spun.He didn't even have time to feel angry. All he felt was that his life had suddenly become so unreal and absurd, completely devoid of reality."Kaguya is connected to both the Anemo Archon and the Dendro Archon, which is why she was able to uncover all this. This is the truth of what you've experienced."Raiden Ei sighed reluctantly."Doctor? Dottore! Hahaha! How dare he? I'll tear him apart, I'll throw every piece of him into a sea of fire, leaving him to perish in eternal agony! Let me go! Let me go...""Dottore is dead. I did it myself, with the Anemo Archon and the Dendro Archon as witnesses. There's no chance of luck.""..."The last bit of impulse vanished with Raiden Ei's verdict. Scaramouche's eyes lost their luster.Raiden Ei simply watched, motionless, waiting for a long moment.Then, she raised her hand and slowly placed it on Scaramouche's head."I failed to guide you correctly, leading you to this end. So all I can do is let you see the truth and leave with a clear conscience."The decision regarding Scaramouche was made by her sister.The true will was Inazuma's, and that was Makoto's.Raiden Ei would not doubt, nor would she refute. She would resolutely carry it out to the end, just as she had done all those years ago. However, looking at Scaramouche's lifeless, hollow eyes, Raiden Ei hesitated before asking."Do you know Irminsul?""...""Irminsul records everything. It's the final resting place for all living things, from ancient times to the present. So, if you go there, you might even have a chance to see... those people from the past.""!"Scaramouche finally raised his head.He stared at the person who had created him and then trapped him for his entire life, his eyes devoid of fear or struggle. After a long pause, he simply scoffed and said in an extremely annoying tone."I won't thank you, old woman.""BOOM!!!"A flash of lightning crackled.Scaramouche's body completely relaxed, his hands drooping, his head supported by Raiden Ei's hand. His eyes were completely devoid of light.Of course, Raiden Ei wasn't overwhelmed by the words.She had always had a clear understanding of her divine nature: proud, resolute, and persistent, unconcerned with the petty problems that plagued humans. She simply wiped the puppet's consciousness as quickly and efficiently as possible."Does it feel bad?""Sister."Raiden Ei turned and embraced Kaguya, who was approaching.Raiden Ei, like Raiden Makoto, was a tall, regal beauty. Kaguya, pure and beautiful, was much smaller. Holding them like this, it was easy to confuse the older sister with the younger.Raiden Ei embraced her sister, who had changed so much, and took a deep breath, letting her breath gradually soothe her depressed mood.Kaguya, in Raiden Ei's embrace, raised her hand and patted Raiden Ei's head."Do you regret it?""Yes.""Be careful from now on, and don't let it happen again. I'll be watching you. If you make a mistake again, I won't show mercy.""Okay, please keep disciplining me like this, sister."Raiden Ei's lips curled upwards in a pleading voice. Being supervised and disciplined, punished for mistakes—in that way, she felt at ease."Then, I'll leave Makoto's body to you.""I'll create the most perfect body. However, it's ultimately made of mortal materials, and its strength alone can never rival the Shogun's.""Who do you think is going to inhabit this body? That's Makoto, possessing complete memories, knowledge, and experience! As long as it's a body that's compatible, it can't be weak.""..."Raiden Ei rarely agreed without a thoughtless response.Speaking of her sister, she could score well above 100 points for intelligence, wisdom, vision, charm, and so on.But when it came to her martial arts—well, let's not talk about it, everyone knows it.After absorbing enough of her sister's essence, Raiden Ei brought the hollow puppet body to her workshop and began busily modifying and adjusting it.Amidst her work, a sudden feeling of physical blockage made Raiden Ei frown slightly.【Inner me, you have strayed from eternity.】"I'm busy. Please be quiet."【Inner me, you have betrayed eternity.】"I created this body to prevent the two halves of my sister from fusing, thus avoiding the gaze of the heavens. You know, only Celestia cannot be opposed. This is a danger that could destroy Inazuma if we're not careful. Without completing this task first, our eternity is meaningless."【Your logic passes. However, it can only last until the transformation is complete. I will not tolerate endless excuses and delays. Eternity is unquestionable.】"Okay, I understand. Continue until the transformation is complete. That's enough."Raiden Ei said nonchalantly. Then, she felt the stagnation and obstruction in her body slowly subside.Raiden Ei blinked, and when the sensation faded, she continued her research as if nothing had happened.As for the Shogun's problem, it's fine. It will be solved.It's just a minor issue.At this point, can she let her past self hinder her future with her sisters?---Chapter 205: Bigger! Believe Me!Raiden Ei was already quite experienced in puppet making.Scaramouche was the original culmination of her work. All the technologies had been perfectly combined in this puppet; otherwise, a mind would not have been born. The body’s flaws lay in the strength of the materials, not the technology itself.The basic structure of the body was already extremely complete, leaving only two steps.First, incorporate some of the Shogun’s innovative experience to make this body more suitable for Raiden Makoto’s residence.Second, reshape the exterior.The first step was easy, and with the abundant material inventory back then, it took only a few days. However, the second step proved incredibly time-consuming and labor-intensive.“Hm, I still feel like something’s missing.”Looking at the flawless, pure white body before her, a trace of confusion crossed Raiden Ei’s eyes.Theoretically, her sister’s appearance should be almost identical to her own; matching height, build, and skin color would be enough. But after actually doing it, it felt a little off.“I’m a kagemusha, trained in martial arts for years, so my muscles are relatively defined, giving me a more athletic and toned look. And as for my sister...”Raiden Ei stroked her chin, lost in thought.If she were to describe the feeling Raiden Makoto gave her, the word that most impressed her would be—soft.She had a very soft personality, and her eyes, always filled with a smile, were also soft.It was the kind of feeling that emanated from the inside out, from her aura to every inch of her body, an exquisite softness, like a sweet, soft dumpling.Ei still remembered the days when she was with her sister. No matter where she touched her body, Raiden Ei would feel so comfortable that she completely forgot all her worries.“Not yet. I need to continue fine-tuning.”Raiden Ei nodded solemnly, her eyes intensely serious, comparable to the solemnity she felt before a battle.Then, as if realizing something, she raised her hand and weighed her two meaningless lumps of fat.“It’s just a guess, not necessarily correct. But is there a possibility that my sister is just a little smaller than me?”Raiden Ei pinched her own finger, a sudden realization dawning on her.The beauty was gone, and Kaguya now occupied a different human body than before. And the truth of ideology, intangible, could not be precisely measured. There was no way to obtain her sister’s exact measurements now.At this point, Raiden Ei’s only reference point was those memories from five hundred years ago.She recalled bathing with her sister, among other things, trying to come up with an accurate and reliable value.“Damn it! This is such a crucial number, and I didn’t even measure it accurately!”Raiden Ei slapped her head in frustration.“Ei, come out for dinner.”“Okay, sister.”Raiden Ei smiled and walked out.After dinner, she should ask her sister in person.Maybe she had measured herself?When asked this question, Raiden Makoto paused. Then she took on a grave expression, placed both hands on Raiden Ei’s shoulders, and spoke earnestly.“It’s bigger!”“Huh? But I remember...”“Believe me, it’s bigger. You see, I don’t exercise much, and without exercise, I’ll gain weight, so it’s normal for it to be bigger than yours, right? Besides, I’m the older sister, and it’s only natural for an older sister to be bigger than a younger sister!”“That makes sense.”Raiden Ei hesitated, bewildered by her sister’s large eyes, so close to her.Then, she really started piling on the material.But after another round of retouching, looking at the beautiful and captivating body, Raiden Ei still tilted her head in confusion.“What’s wrong? Why does it still feel off?”Because of Raiden Makoto’s true allure, Raiden Ei forcibly ignored the only problematic issue, the size of the extra weight, and no matter how hard she tried, she could not find the cause of the discrepancy.Raiden Ei had no choice but to explain her confusion to everyone and apologize to her two sisters, feeling deeply guilty for her slow progress."But what’s the problem?”“It’s just a guess, not necessarily correct. Is it possible it could be a little bigger?”“Is that the reason?”“No one knows me better than I do. You have to trust me, Ei!”Raiden Makoto was absolutely certain.So, Raiden Ei continued to pile on the material.However, she was still stuck on the visual fidelity, unable to achieve what she considered the perfect look for Raiden Makoto.Kitsune Saiguu and Yae Miko knew the reason, but they would not reveal it.Makoto knew the reason even better, but she threatened them to keep it quiet.Until Kaguya finally lost her patience and barged into Raiden Ei’s workshop one night.“No! Kaguya, no! I can still get a little bigger, and then...”“Are you done? Get in!”“Ah!”Kaguya’s face darkened as she forced Makoto's consciousness inside, under Raiden Ei’s bewildered gaze. “Hm~~”The lifeless, beautiful doll’s eyes gradually lit up with life, and its limbs and torso trembled a few times.After a moment, Raiden Makoto raised her hands and weighed herself, her expression shifting between surprise and resentment.“This is... this is... Damn it, I haven’t reached my limit yet!”“Ah! Did you ever care so much about this kind of thing?”“What do you know? Why didn’t you take it when you had the chance? Is my reincarnation so tasteless?”“If you keep whining, I’ll have Ei do liposuction on you.”“Hmph! You’re Makoto, and so am I. We’re both Ei’s older sister! At least on the outside, I look more like her than you do. Ei will definitely listen to me!”“Is your obsession that deep?”Kaguya’s eyebrows twitched, then she shook her head and smiled.The Electro Archon, known in historical records for her meticulous planning, actually fussed over trivial matters like this in private, even mercilessly pitting her own sister.Wasn’t that cute?Raiden Makoto refused to give up. Since they were all family, she did not bother looking for clothes and simply slid naked into Raiden Ei.“Ei, you’re just bluffing me, bah! Listen to me.”“Sister, about your conflict, I...”Ei frowned weakly.They were both sisters, so a humble woman like her could not interfere.“Tsk!”Makoto still felt resigned, but she did not embarrass her sister any further. Besides, now that things had come to this, with Makoto already inside, letting Raiden Ei pile on her body—it would be like operating on herself for no reason, and somewhat strange.Never mind.Anyway, this was pretty good.Raiden Makoto weighed herself again, feeling the extraordinary weight, a burden even heavier than when she was alive.She smiled and nodded with satisfaction. At the same time, Ei’s lips widened as she felt the warmth and softness of the real one.Although she had crafted this doll herself, every detail was sculpted by her own hands, the experience before and after her sister entered was completely different.【Inner me, you...】‘Stop arguing! I need to rest. Let’s find a place where we won’t disturb Inazuma. We can’t just do it in the castle tower, can we? Shogun, you don’t want us to affect Tenshukaku, do you?’【...okay.】------*Chapter 206: Shogun, You Truly Have Ulterior Motives!*Raiden Ei had no time to think about correcting the Shogun.Because that night, she could finally sleep with her sister in her arms."Sister... hehe..."Kaguya was also her sister.However, Kaguya usually slept with Kamisato Ayaka. Because the truth was of grave importance, and Kamisato Ayaka was only a mortal, they had to keep many matters from her.Consequently, Raiden Ei had yet to share a bed with Kaguya. This body, built by herself, was almost identical to the real Makoto. Holding her felt like being transported back in time, captivating Raiden Makoto."Hmm?"Makoto suddenly felt something was off.It felt cramped somewhere. While soft and comfortable, it wasn't quite the same as she remembered.Makoto knew everything about her sister and immediately sensed the danger. With a broad smile, she said, "Go to sleep. Don't let your thoughts wander.""Yes, sister."Raiden Makoto stopped thinking and fell asleep.Raiden Ei breathed a sigh of relief."Puff!" ×2The foxes' chuckles echoed from both sides.Makoto rolled her eyes, deciding to deal with the two later....Raiden Ei rested for two days.She spent most of her time with Raiden Makoto."The two Shoguns, as expected...""After all, she's the Grand Lord of the Imperial Palace, so don't assume a god's power with mortal thinking. This is confidential, so just don't spread it. Even if you do, it's fine. It's just another clone of the Shogun. We're all Shoguns, no difference.""I won't say anything! The Shogun must have her reasons for doing this. I absolutely won't interfere with her plans."Kamisato Ayaka whispered affectionately to Kaguya, pouting in dissatisfaction.What kind of talk is that? Does she think I'm some ignorant, outspoken little girl?Kaguya smiled at her, raised her folding fan, and gently patted Ayaka's head.After a harmonious breakfast, Ayaka cleared the dishes and left, busying herself with chores outside. Raiden Ei, sensing an opportunity, said with a stern face, "Kaguya, Makoto, I'm going out for a few days.""What's going on?"Kaguya put down the document she had just picked up, and Shín asked directly.Raiden Ei presented the perfect excuse she had already prepared, saying seriously, "I'm going into seclusion to practice martial arts.""Huh? You've been the Shogun for five hundred years, and you're still practicing martial arts?""In martial arts, if you don't progress, you'll regress. There's no end to practice."Makoto rubbed her chin, looked at Ei thoughtfully for a long moment, then slowly nodded.Raiden Ei breathed a sigh of relief, stood up expressionlessly, and was about to leave.Kaguya picked up the document again, reading it as she casually wrote, "Go to the Grand Narukami Shrine cave at the foot of Mt. Yougou. It's close to Inazuma Castle and the Sacred Sakura. If anything happens here, or if there's a shift in Inazuma's ley lines, you'll be the first to notice."Don't forget that the Sacred Sakura seeds were still in Kaguya's possession. Sooner or later, she would have to complete the act of "planting the Sacred Sakura in the past" to close the time loop.During her first visit to the Grand Narukami Shrine, Kaguya discovered that Ishtaroth's power was hidden in the cave. The Angels deduced that this was Ishtaroth's method of closing the loop.Since Ishtaroth's had already made all the arrangements, the Angels didn't need to make any extra preparations. They could just go with the flow and activate this setting, saving a lot of effort.Raiden Ei, of course, didn't know Kaguya's plan; she simply pondered it carefully. With her unrivaled power, she could simply place a barrier at the door, preventing anyone from breaking in.Everyone would know she was in seclusion there, and when they saw the impenetrable barrier outside, they would know she was fine and would stop worrying.This was a good thing."Okay, sister."Raiden Ei nodded, transforming into a flash of lightning and flying towards Mt. Yougou.After the others left, Makoto, Miko, and Kitsusai gathered around Kaguya. Someone brought out some sunflower seeds, and the group began to discuss while munching on them."What do you think she's doing, hiding it from us?""I don't know. I guess she thinks she's hiding it well. Anyway, she looks like she's got something serious going on.""I don't know either. I can't imagine. Miko, you've spent the most time with her in these five hundred years. What are your thoughts?""What do you mean I've spent the most time with her? You know, before Kaguya came, she wouldn't even let me near the Tenshukaku! How would I know that\\"Yae Miko slammed the table, her face etched with displeasure.As if her complaints weren't enough, she continued:"If you're talking about the person she spends the most time with, it's the Shogun. Why don't you ask her to release the Shogun... Shogun? Oh no!"Yae Shenzi suddenly realized.Seeing her expression change, the others perked up. Yae Miko explained."I remember now. There's a serious problem with the Shogun! You all know how stubborn Ei is. She created the Shogun for eternity, and the root logic she built into her is to absolutely protect eternity and eliminate any obstacles—even if that obstacle is Ei herself!""!!!" ×3No one cracked melon seeds.In the brief silence, the only sound was the rapid swishing of Kaguya's pen across the paper.【Ayaka, we're traveling with the Shogun on important matters. This is confidential and cannot be shared. Please understand. The trip will take a few days or more than a month. When you see this letter, please inform Sara and have her accompany you. Next, go to the Tenryou Commission and inform Lord Ayato of this matter. He will instruct his men to diligently guard Inazuma Castle and continue all previous work. Finally, take care of yourself, don't worry, and wait for my return.】Kaguya fetched a paperweight and placed the letter prominently on the table. Then she stood up and walked side by side with Raiden Makoto to the balcony.Yae Miko and Kitsusai exchanged a glance and hurriedly followed.…Shadow towards the mountain, the cave of the Grand Narukami Shrine.After casting an unbreakable barrier, Raiden Ei began to move forward, stepping into the vast and empty world of meditation."Inner me, Inazuma's eternity cannot be stopped.""I know. I was the one who programmed you to be this way. I know everything.""Then you should also understand that to shake Inazuma's eternity, you must prove to me—prove that you haven't been shaken by erosion, that your will to change is as pure and flawless as it was at the beginning! Defeat me with your conviction, or I will replace you and lead Inazuma to eternity!"Raiden Shogun raised her naginata, and thunder roared down, illuminating the space of consciousness.And Raiden Ei's response was crisp and decisive, without hesitation. "Don't stand in my way! And don't even think about replacing me!"If you replace me, won't you be the one by my sister's from now on? Such a treacherous puppet!I knew the creature I personally crafted would harbor evil intentions towards me!How could I possibly let you succeed!Raiden Ei's eyes turned cold, and she drew her long sword. The blade, shimmering with lightning, emanated a terrifying aura of destruction.The two pairs of clear, unwavering eyes met, and then each transformed into a flash of lightning and pounced upon the other."BOOM!!!"Raiden Shogun's naginata and Raiden Ei's sword of lightning collided, instantly shaking the entire world.---Chapter 207: This Kid's Butt Is ItchyThe meditation space, peaceful for five hundred years, was turned upside down today."Boom!"Thunderbolts pounded everything within the space like a violent storm, arcs of purple electricity dancing in the air. Even space itself was twisted and shattered by the relentless onslaught of destructive force, leaving every corner a forbidden zone of death."Clang!!!"The clash of swords continued incessantly, each a resounding explosion of sword energy and lightning.Raiden Ei and the Raiden Shogun, once one and the same, now faced each other like mortal enemies, each strike an unreserved, deadly blow."Eternity is unchangeable!"The puppet, imbued with ideals, had long since possessed a soul, like Scaramouche.Eternity was her conviction, a belief that transcended even reverence for the Creator.Therefore, she was Raiden Ei's perfect creation, the God of Eternity whom Raiden Ei had once recognized and trusted."My sister's path is Inazuma's path!"The Creator, once lost in obsession, now unhesitatingly denies herself, viewing the path of others as a new beacon—yet in reality, she has never changed.Initially, she wielded her sword to protect her sister, and later, after losing her sister and other family members, she chose eternity.From beginning to end, she was the child who would risk everything for those she cherished."Eternity is everything!""No, eternity is merely a means to an end, a means to protection! Those I wish to protect are everything! Therefore, true eternity is also eternity!""Inside, you are wavering, you are worn!""Whether I am worn or not, I will tell you with my sword!"Two pairs of nearly identical violet eyes gazed at each other, their unwavering resolve fused.Thunder shattered everything, and sword lights intertwined like a painting.This represented the pinnacle of divine power and martial skill reached by both sides.This was the ultimate clash of Shinto, martial arts, and faith.They expended their utter might, neither conceding, the fight ending in death."BOOM!!!"Once again, the long sword and naginata clashed, sword energy and lightning roaring like dragons.Two pairs of purple eyes stared at each other, and then both transformed into a surging torrent of lightning, rapidly entwining and colliding in this vast space of consciousness, transforming the entire world into a thunderous inferno.... Outside, Kaguya and the other four also arrived outside the cave.Raiden Makoto had a solemn expression as she reached out, attempting to penetrate the barrier."Zizi!"Electric arcs exploded from the barrier, and a powerful force suddenly flung her back.Fortunately, Kaguya was nearby, raising her hand to support Raiden Makoto's waist. "Be careful, the barrier set by Ei is very powerful.""Indeed, it's very powerful. It seems we were right. She's trying to solve the Shogun's logical problem. From what I know about her, she probably only has one solution... and that's combat.""Saiguu, Miko, go check this restriction."Kaguya sent two masters of Onmyoji forward while she lifted Makoto's hand, her brows furrowed slightly.Makoto's hand was charred from the electric shock, especially the fingertips that had directly touched the restriction. The charred, bloody mess was a shocking sight."I'm fine, don't worry."Makoto reacted, and despite her charred appearance, she moved her fingers nonchalantly.Kaguya glanced at her with annoyance and quickly activated her healing Onmyoji. "It's working. It seems, aside from a slightly reduced strength, there are no flaws. The simulation is spot-on."Kaguya held up Raiden Makoto's delicate, now-restored hand, and kneaded its soft, silky palm and fingers with a look of intense curiosity.It was truly lifelike.The feel and temperature were exactly like a real person, even the blood, tendons, and joints beneath the skin were perfectly real. Even the healing spells were effective; it was practically more lifelike than a real person.Raiden Makoto's face gradually turned pale, causing her to withdraw her hand."Don't mess around. If you want to research, there will be plenty of opportunities later. That's how Ei is. Although she seems lazy, she often figures out something remarkable on her own.""It's truly impressive, just like this restriction. It appears simple and crude... and it is. But because of that, it can only be broken through with the same brute force. There's no shortcut."Saiguu rubbed her brows and reluctantly took over.The four of them exchanged silent glances, while Kaguya raised her folding fan and traced elegant, mystical runes in the air."BOOM!!!"The sky suddenly darkened, thunder rumbled, and a vast energy gathered within the dark clouds, weighing down the remaining three people's hair.Then, Kaguya's face darkened again. She clapped her folding fan against her hand."Snap!"With a soft crack, the thunder dissipated, and the sky cleared again."No, Ei is likely already engaged. We don't know if there are more obstacles within, and attacking the restrictions will undoubtedly distract her. A single mistake could backfire.""You've made a good decision. We can't act rashly unless we're absolutely certain we can reach her."Kaguya and Raiden Makoto spoke, their brows furrowed. Kaguya held her folding fan, narrowed her eyes, and said coldly."That kid's butt is itchy!""Kaguya, why do you feel so much more impulsive than me?""Hmph! I'm not spoiling her. It's your attitude of letting her do whatever she wants and taking on all the big responsibilities yourself that's cultivated her into this character.""Ugh... I'm speechless."Raiden Makoto covered her face in shame.No one thought it was strange that Kaguya exhibited a different personality from Raiden Makoto.After all, they were reincarnated, reborn as humans, having previously spent five hundred years circulating within the earth's veins, cleansing their past. Some differences were normal.Anyway, they had already filled in all the details from every angle, and their unwavering faith in the formula "Kaguya = Raiden Makoto" was unwavering.Kaguya sighed and spoke, "Forget it, let's solve the current problem first. Ei's style is rigid and extreme. She won't turn back even if she hits a wall, like a child. The settings she's set for the Shogun will probably be difficult for even herself to break through. We can't let her handle it alone; the risk is too great.""What do you have in mind?""Either don't attack, or we must reach her all at once. This requires power and a medium... Miko, go and retrieve the Gnosis."Kaguya made a quick decision.Yae Miko was equally decisive, immediately flying to the top of the mountain to retrieve the Gnosis from the shrine. In just a moment, Yae Miko, sprinting back and forth, landed right in front of Kaguya."Miko, use the Gnosis, and we'll work together to break through. Makoto, you, and I will go in, and Saiguu will stay behind. If we don't come out for a few days, you'll return to the castle tower and take command. Don't panic. Together, we can overcome any obstacle. It's just that we need to fill the gap for Ei, so timing is a bit tricky."Kitsune Saiguu opened her mouth, hesitated for a moment, then nodded her head.She watched as the three of them combined their strength, transforming into a ball of lightning that crashed into the barrier.Then Saiguu looked at her hands and smiled bitterly."What do you mean by taking command? I'm still being held back by this ethereal, fragile Shikigami body... You must be safe, everyone."---Chapter 208: Just a WordNever mind Kitsune Saiguu's complex and anxious feelings.As soon as Kaguya and the other two entered the cave, they felt a strange distortion of space and time. It was like entering a raging river. The current turbulent, and their direction was unpredictable."What's this?""Don't panic. Get a feel for Ei's location and find her first!"Kaguya knew this was Ishtaroth's arrangement, so she remained calm and composed.This composure greatly soothed the bewildered Raiden Makoto and Yae Miko.Indeed, no matter what, they had to meet with Ei first; nothing else mattered...."Clang!"Within the meditation space, swords clashed, blades colliding, unleashing a dazzling burst of lightning.Raiden Ei and the Shogun wrestled around the collision point, spinning sideways and passing by, then swung back in sync and struck."Bang!!!"The blades collided, each unleashing a violent burst of sword energy and lightning, unleashing unreservedly upon the other."Give up! I am the God of Eternity of Inazuma, undefeated, unyielding, immortal, and unchanging. I will bring eternity to Inazuma!""To conquer oneself is as difficult as ascending to heaven for ordinary people, but for me, it's a piece of cake.""Inner me, your efforts are in vain!""How dare you! I created you, so I can certainly defeat you! You're just a phantom of the past, a fleeting vestige of the wind and frost. Do you think you can stand in my way?"Words are a clash of hearts.Swords are a clash of martial arts.The Raiden Shogun devoted all her might to questioning Raiden Ei from every angle.And this is the very reason Ei created the Shogun.The Shogun is Ei from five hundred years ago, upright, brave, and pure-hearted, a true Electro Archon. She is no weaker than Ei of that time; in fact, she is even more powerful. Only then is she qualified to defend Inazuma's eternity."Have you forgotten your resolve from back then?""I haven't forgotten. It's just that you simply don't understand what Inazuma truly means to me!""What Narukami desires is Inazuma's eternity!""My sister's eternity is also eternity! An eternity far more correct than my limited wisdom!"One adhered to the creed etched deep within her soul at birth, while the other unhesitatingly overturned her past self.The conflict between the two was irreconcilable.They stared at each other with piercing eyes, and then the lightning flashed brighter, the sword energy roared more relentlessly, and the intensity of the battle escalated. It was as if the power of both was boundless, without limit."BOOM!!!"Equally accomplished martial arts skills, equally powerful lightning elemental power, shone with dazzling brilliance in this unknown place.If Morax and Maria were here, they would likely smile in awe and admiration.But precisely because of this, there was no clear winner, a seemingly endless war of attrition. Yet, Raiden Ei smiled confidently during the fight.The Raiden Shogun stared at her expressionlessly."Inner me, I am more precise than you, and I never tire. You have no chance of winning.""Wrong.""Wrong in what way?""You are stagnant. No matter how much I fight, You won't get stronger. I will advance, surpass myself, and defeat you squarely. You are the one with no chance of winning, Shogun."Countless more clashes of swords resounded during the conversation."Hmph!" ×2Both sides snorted in unison.The Raiden Shogun firmly believed she was perfect, flawless, and infallible, and therefore could not fail. Raiden Ei, however, had no doubt she would surpass herself, and her confidence in defeating the Shogun had never wavered.Like two ignorant children.Yet in reality, they were truly pure powerhouses, standing at the pinnacle.... "Hmm, how should I put it? It's quite unique."Standing at the edge of the battlefield, Kaguya stroked her chin, watching the dueling duo with admiration.None of them resembled the powerful beings of the Honkai World.The closest was Kevin. But Kevin had been drained of all his blood and tears, and only had one ultimate goal left, so he remained unwavering.Besides, even Durandal had moments of lows, though she quickly regained her fighting spirit.And Fu Hua was humble. Even at one point in her life, she never considered herself a formidable figure. She simply went about her work quietly, never seeking credit or publicity, a simple and humble person from the inside out.Perhaps she was similar to Senti? She was the type with naturally confident confidence.In short, Raiden Ei's mindset was pure strength. She had no doubts about her own strength, and even considered defeating herself a matter of course.【It's not just them; several gods of Teyvat are like this, with perfect minds and high realms, each with their own unique characteristics. It's the power system of Teyvat, or more precisely, Celestia, that limit them. If it were a system of Honkai... never mind. Honkai energy is another matter. Let's not make such cruel assumptions.】【Without transcending the Honkai, discussing this is meaningless. And once we do, we'll naturally have time to consider how to use these powerful seeds.】When discussing interests, the Angel people all spoke in a cold and rational tone.Kaguya did the same, nodding calmly."Kaguya, stop daydreaming. Let's go help.""What's the rush? We're already here, and Ei shows no signs of defeat. Sometimes, she should clean up her own mess. This is a lesson.""..."Despite the cold words, Raiden Makoto and Yae Miko were speechless.Seeing that Raiden Ei was still full of energy, their worries were largely relieved. Without panic, they remained confident in Raiden Ei's strength."I don't doubt Ei can win, but if we let them fight like this, how long will it take?"Raiden Makoto hesitated for a moment, her tone uncertain.Inazuma couldn't wait for them to disappear that long.After all, after what had just happened with Snezhnaya, even with the weight of the gods' pact hanging over her head, there were still risks in the long-term absence of the Electro Archon.The weak cannot defend their own fairness. And in Teyvat, a nation without gods is a weak nation. No one dares to destroy it, but everything else is beyond the control of the weak.Hyuga stopped moving.At the same time, the Raiden Shogun and Ei, who were about to clash swords, also suddenly stopped."Sister?""Makoto?"The Raiden Shogun puppet's pause was normal; it would be abnormal for her not to.As for the Shogun, as mentioned earlier, her basic logic actually consisted of several strands.One is about eternity, and the rest are all about Raiden Makoto. She had to pause."Clang!!!"After a moment's pause, the clash of swords and the roar of thunder resounded once more.This time, both sides tacitly retreated to another corner of space, avoiding the aftermath of the battle and leaving behind a safe haven."Go, talk to her."From her safe place, Kaguya dropped her defenses and slapped Makoto's butt.It was perky.The sound was springy."Ah!"The sudden scream was adorable.Kaguya's face was stern, staring solemnly at the battlefield, as if it were a perfectly normal action.Even Yae Miko didn't think much of it. After all, they were the same person, so what was wrong with a slap?Makoto pouted in dissatisfaction and glared at Kaguya. Then, still thinking of her sister, she shouted ahead:"Ei, keep going!"Just a simple sentence.And Makoto's eyes seemed to ignite with fire. On the charged blade, the power of Electro surged to a new level.Whether in the Honkai World or the Teyvat World, many of the forces within the Sea of Trees system are heavily influenced by idealism. Changes in one's mind have a profound impact on combat effectiveness."BOOM!!!"Raiden Ei slashed the Shogun away with her sword, then, with a determined gaze, she raised her sword and advanced, completely subduing the Shogun for the first time without a doubt.---Chapter 209 Hurry Up, I'm HungryRaiden Ei's claim that the Shogun was stagnant wasn't entirely accurate.As a puppet, the Shogun's adaptability and ability to improve were indeed inferior to Raiden Ei's own. But she still possessed the ability to learn and improve; otherwise, how could Raiden Ei consider her a perfect replacement?For example, right now, Raiden Ei's strength surged, driven by her surging fighting spirit, severely suppressing the Shogun. But the Shogun wasn't completely passive. She withstood the pressure and gradually adapted to Raiden Ei's rhythm, slowly closing the gap."Clang!"Swords clashed, but the Shogun's face remained calm and resolute. She persisted in trying to convince her creator with words, speaking."Ei, you have no chance of winning. One mistake and you'll be completely defeated.""Shut up!"Raiden Ei ignored her, striking without stopping, the force of the thunder intensifying...."The Shogun's excellence is undeniable, but what good is improvement? If you become stronger, I'll become even stronger, until you can no longer catch up—look at her eyes, she must be thinking that right now!"In the distance, Yae Miko scratched her head and cheeks as if in a state of emergency, looking at her two "sisters" with tears in her eyes.Kaguya and Makoto were both silent for a moment.They raised their hands and patted Yae Miko's shoulders in unison, comforting her with a tone of "we understand":"Thank you for your hard work.""Yes. You've suffered so much without us for these five hundred years."Since her birth, Ei had this unwavering character. She's determined on one thing, and only Makoto could reverse it. Otherwise, even if she got herself bruised and bloodied, she might not turn back.So it's easy to imagine Miko's repeated attempts to persuade her over the years, yet no matter how hard she tried, Raiden ignored her. The little fox could only repeatedly run back to Narukami Taisha, hiding inside and writhing in despair.Putting herself in her shoes, Makoto herself felt a little absentminded.Yae Miko had managed to hold out for five hundred years without shutting herself off, thanks to the naturally sunny and cheerful nature of the kitsune clan.After a moment of sympathy, Makoto looked back at the battlefield, her brow furrowing as she watched."The Shogun's power is growing stronger. If this continues, there's no end in sight.""But my intuition tells me that rashly intervening at this moment wouldn't be a good idea."Kaguya held her folding fan in her hand, patting it lightly on her palm, her expression equally gloomy and uncertain.Upon hearing this, Yae Miko nodded quickly, "Kaguya-sama is right. Ei created the Shogun to prevent herself from eroding, thereby affecting Inazuma's eternity. Therefore, I believe the only way to convince the Shogun is for Ei to defeat her with her own strength and will. This will prove that Ei's will has not worn out, that she is completely clear-headed and has decided to give up eternity without hesitation.""In other words, external forces can't suppress her. Otherwise, even after this one, the Shogun won't change, and there will always be another?""Well, maybe it's more than that, it could be worse."Yae Miko's mouth twitched.Kaguya and Makoto looked at her.Miko's eyebrows twitched a few times, then she spoke with a look of helplessness. "You all know how extreme Ei can be. I can't guarantee that she won't set up even more extreme safeguards—for example, if the Shogun determines that Ei is being manipulated and bewitched by external forces, and she is unable to change, will she choose to self-destruct and perish together?""..." ×2Theoretically, it's unlikely. After all, if both sides perished, Inazuma would be without a god, and such an arrangement was simply unacceptable.However, as I said before, that was the unparalleled Ei against her past—when they all began to worry about this possibility, it meant the probability wasn't zero."We can't use external forces.""But we can't just sit back and watch them fight like this, or else it'll be impossible to determine the winner for hundreds of years. That's unacceptable. We can't accept that, and neither can Inazuma.""Then, it seems there's only one solution left.""You've thought of that, too? You're me, too!"Yae Miko was still trying to figure out what they had to do when Kaguya and Makoto exchanged a tacit smile and then both fell to the ground."Hey!?"She quickly held one in each hand, even her hidden tail emerging to wrap around them, fearing any collisions.This was Inazuma's true leader, the core of the gang, the beloved sister whom the twin Raidens cherished with all their hearts. If it had hit her hand, Raiden Ei would remember it for five hundred years.Yae Miko, with both hand and tail, protected the two precious bodies. Seeing the traces of lightning and sword energy not far ahead, she retreated sweat-drenched to a more remote area.As for Ei?Why panic when her sisters had already taken action?Besides, Ei would destroy everything for her sisters.Worrying about her was not as good as worrying about this weak, beautiful little fox.…In the center of the battlefield, intersecting lightning flashes collided, creating a dazzling brilliance.The valiant and beautiful figures of the twin martial arts beauties, each unyielding in their heroic performance, were equally dazzling and captivating—though for now, only Kaguya was admiring this beauty from the shadows.“Swish!”As their figures crossed, Raiden Ei saw two streaks of purple light merge into the blade before she could continue swinging her sword. A familiar aura emanated from her hand.Raiden Ei was stunned. "Sister?"Just when she wasn't quite sure what was going on."Hurry up and finish it. Saiguu-kun is waiting outside.""I'm human after all. It's probably time for dinner. I'm a little hungry."The words of Kaguya and Makoto echoed through Ei's mind.There were no long speeches, no heartwarming encouragements. Each of them spoke with a touch of complaint and urging, like those wayward parents born in the 1990s who deliberately make things difficult for their children.Raiden Ei raised her hand to touch the sword. She no longer felt the coldness of the blade, but the warmth of her sister.Her memories went back many, many years, to when she had been away on campaigns against foreign enemies, and Makoto had always urged her on, always telling her to leave early and return early.Raiden Ei felt her eyes warm, and she shook her head with a smile."How could I have forgotten?""Ei?""Shogun, do you know where the Musou no Hitotachi came from?""It's the strongest sword strike you've ever struck, combining all your martial arts skills into one. It's the most powerful strike you can use to cut through anything."The Shogun frowned slightly, confused by Raiden Ei's sudden question.Raiden Ei stroked the blade and shook her head."That's the principle, not the origin.""Hmm?""That strike came about because I had only one reason to wield Mussou Isshin at that time. I swung it to protect Makoto and Makoto's wishes. I knew she was watching over me, waiting for me to come home. The only way to end the fight as quickly and simply as possible was to stop her from worrying back home...""Ei, this is a duel. If you lose because of distraction, that's also wear and tear on you."The Shogun didn't understand, but kindly reminded Raiden Ei.--Chapter 210: Perfect ForeshadowingThe Shogun was a puppet. Having never experienced the bloody Archon War era whwre the sisters depended on each other for survival, she couldn't understand what Raiden Ei was lamenting.She had only witnessed the movements of Kaguya and Raiden Makoto.Those two had poured their wills into their plane, yet they brought no external forces to bear. Besides a slight presence in the duel, there was no additional influence.The Shogun's logic ran full circle, and she concluded that this didn't quite count as external interference.So, she attacked again."Clang!"Then, Raiden Ei's blade slashed her away, sending her plummeting to the ground."Hmm?"The Shogun sensed Raiden Ei's power rising yet again. Furthermore, she could sense the sharp aura rising from Raiden Ei."Gathering power, are you planning to use the Musou no Hitotachi? Unfortunately, I also know that technique. It's futile, inner me."The Shogun paused, leaped into the air, and raised her naginata.Across from her, Ei's eyes gradually dimmed as she slowly raised her sword toward the sky."Boom!!!"Two enormous pupils, condensed with lightning, appeared behind them.They were manifestations of a mind condensed from divine power and martial arts realms. Their awe-inspiring might shook the heavens and earth, leaving one terrified and unable to gaze directly.Ei's eyes were indifferent as she spoke."You are a puppet, possessing a mind even purer and more flawless than mine.""So, my Musou sword strike is even more perfect than yours.""It's only stagnant perfection.""Isn't perfection enough? With an unchanging, perfect sword strike, I will protect Inazuma's eternity. That is the meaning of my existence!"The Shogun's eyes shone with the might of thunder, burning and unwavering, like her ironclad conviction.Ei sighed softly. Looking at the puppet, completely unable to understand her current state of mind, she suddenly felt a tinge of pity."You really can't understand.""In my memory, you're not the type to play tricks."The Shogun remained as calm and indifferent as ever, neither questioning nor refuting Ei's words, as if she hadn't heard them at all.Like follows its master, and the connection between the Shogun and Ei was even more extreme.Ei knew the Shogun wouldn't listen or understand, so she said no more. She simply closed her eyes and recalled how she had swung that sword that year.Back then, there were no Miko and Saiguu, no Chiyo and Sasahiro. Back then, there were only Makoto and her. Makoto believed in her, and she believed in Shin.So, she didn't need to think about anything else, she just needs to swing her sword...In the beginning, this sword had no name at all; it was simply a sword to slay the enemy for Shin.Mussou Isshin was defined only later.But she actually forgot. She forgot how she swung that sword, and she forgot that it had no fixed pattern, no limit.It's never static... What essence of martial arts? Ridiculous!How could my sword-style be so inconvenient?"Kaguya, Makoto, watch me! Watch me swing for you once again, that peerless blade!"Ei opened her eyes. The Shogun before her was no longer the Shogun, but the foreign enemy who had once made her sister frown and worry.Amid the blazing lightning, the Shogun keenly sensed something was amiss."That's not the Musou no Hitotachi!"At least not the Musou no Hitotachi the Shogun knew.But it was too late.Both sides had completed their charge, leaving no room for turning back. They could only charge at each other with thunder and lightning."No Thought: Severance!" ×2Two massive sword-wielding arms reached out from the void, slashing down with the devastating lightning sword."BOOM!!!"The dazzling and magnificent sword light forced Miko to huddle desperately in a corner, hugging the two bodies. She couldn't even open her eyes to observe.She could only hear the deafening thunder and the sound of space shattering. Then, the aftermath of the sword energy transformed into a numbing, sharp wind, whistling towards her.Miko could only use her tail to tightly protect the two bodies and herself, allowing her fur to be scorched and severed by the aftermath, not daring to move an inch.After a long time, the vibrations subsided.Miko slowly opened her tail a little and peeked out to observe.She saw Raiden Ei already standing before the Shogun, sword raised, aimed at her neck.The Shogun knelt on the ground, a broken naginata beneath her.A deep cut etched into her body, blood flowing. Within the wound, which looked like the flesh of a living person, arcs of electricity danced, a scene of immense disgrace and shock. The Shogun slowly raised her head, gazing at her creator with a bewildered look."What is this technique?""It's Musou.""... "The Raiden Shogun was even more bewildered.She had also knew Musou.But it was vastly different from Raiden Ei's, and the result was completely beyond the Shogun's comprehension."Inner me, I don't understand.""I know.""The Musou secret art is the essence of your martial arts, the strongest blade.""The essence of martial arts is a definition only later generations use. In its infancy, the Musou was simple: a single strike I swung to protect Makoto. In my eternal obsession, I forgot about it, and so it has been frozen for five hundred years. Shogun, this is not your fault."Raiden Ei lowered her eyes and removed Musou Isshin from the Shogun's neck.The Shogun had no flaws. She simply didn't know the origin of the Musou blade, nor did she understand Raiden Ei's reason for wielding it. Because she didn't know or understand, she naturally regarded the blade bestowed by the Creator as eternal and unchanging truth, never considering change or improvement.The Shogun's Musou no Hitotachi remained stuck at the point from five hundred years ago. Raiden Ei's Musou no Hitotachi, however, returned to its essence and began to advance.The Shogun remained confused, but she lowered her head and spoke in a cold yet submissive tone. "Regardless, this blade has proven your will. You can change it as you wish. And I will remain your blade, an extension of Narukami's will.""Very well, I will use you as always."Raiden Ei nodded, neither happy nor sad.There was nothing surprising. Victory was inevitable; that was a fact Raiden Ei had already determined before the battle began.Oh, it wasn't without surprises. She remembered the true meaning of the Musou no Hitotachi and took another step forward in her martial arts—essentially, the heart that had been stagnant for five hundred years had broken free from its shackles, once again moving forward, catching sight of the vast world she had long since left behind."I still..."Ei wanted to say something, but the blow had already drained her of her strength, and now she finally couldn't help herself and fell backward.Several hands reached out from behind, supporting her waist.Ei turned around.Yae Miko's face was full of smiles, even though the tail behind her was charred and curled, even a little bald. Raiden Makoto's eyes were filled with heartache and pride for her sister. Kaguya smiled softly, her eyes revealing genuine tenderness and concern.They stood there, supporting her body and her heart."I won!"Ei's face was stone, but she puffed out her chest proudly."I saw it all. It's really... I won't do it again."Kaguya raised her folding fan with one hand, as if about to strike. Finally, as if wanting to blame but unable to, she smiled helplessly and rubbed Ei's head vigorously.Ei grinned as if she had just tasted the sweetest dessert. Amidst the peaceful atmosphere, only Yae Miko suddenly lost her smile. She raised her hand humbly and asked."Although the battle is over, what should we do next? Why does it feel like the chaotic space shows no signs of calming down?""What space?"Raiden Ei glanced at Yae Miko in confusion, then turned to look at the surrounding space."What is this?""At the foot of the Sacred Sakura, in a chaotic spacetime. I should have thought of this earlier. What a perfect foreshadowing, worthy of that person..."Kaguya paused, wanting to say something, then sighed with emotion.Raiden Makoto nodded in admiration. "Who says not? Just the right place, just the right time. I seriously wonder if she's seen this coming.""Don't overthink it. Since the time has come, let's just complete this stage. It'll resolve the last bit of uncertainty, and we'll be able to relax a bit more from now on.""Yes, that's true."The two of them smiled in unison amidst the bewilderment of Yae Miko and Raiden Ei, then simultaneously raised Raiden Ei's hand."You know how I returned to Inazuma.""But before we return, Inazuma still has a long time to live. The disaster is still spreading, and the land of Inazuma is still wailing. To wait for that day, we need to calm the land of Inazuma and buy you some time.""This is a stage in time, the beginning of the cycle of reincarnation.""Come on, plant us in the past and complete this most important step."The two of them held Raiden Ei's hand. The long-dormant Sacred Sakura seed, the demonic body of Raiden Makoto, hovered quietly in her palm. Ei's heart trembled."So, is that how it is?"It was she who had personally sent her sister into the past.It was she who had helped her sister enter the ley line cycle and ultimately return to Inazuma.So, she hadn't arrived too late.She had actually already successfully rescued her sister from the demonic disaster in Khaenri'ah, right?"Go." ×2Kaguya and Raiden Shin released Ei's hand, encouraging her with tender eyes.Ei smiled, though tears streamed down her cheeks. Then, she raised her hand high and, following the turbulent flow of space and time that led back five hundred years, gently pushed the seed into the soil.With this, the Sacred Sakura was officially planted.Kaguya Horaisen Angel's origins were now completely closed, leaving no room for doubt.Ei watched the purple light drifting into the past, watching Inazuma Castle recede from the present into the distant past. Watching the seed fall into the ground beneath Mt. Yougou, it quickly grew and blossomed, its bright, beautiful petals falling like rain."Sister has never left me. Sister has always been by my side."Raiden Ei took a deep breath, her vision blurred by tears, her breathing trembling, yet a brilliant, tearful smile appeared."Crack!"In a trance, she seemed to hear a crisp sound. It was the last vestige of the shackles that had bound her heart, the painful regret of not being able to reach her sister in time to protect her, finally shattered and vanished.

Chapter 211: Insolent, This Body Is..."Time marches on, and so do we. After separation, there's reunion; after death, there's rebirth; if we continue forward, there will be new encounters... This, too, is eternity."In the final moments before her consciousness faded, Ei felt as if she had grasped her sister's philosophy.Then, she drifted off to sleep, her consciousness returning to her dream.Kaguya caught the blade and looked down at the Shogun sitting on the ground."Can you still walk?""My body is severely damaged. To prevent further functional impairment, please hold me,"Shogun Raiden said seriously."Hmm..."Kaguya took in the wounds, blood, and sparks on the Shogun's body, then glanced at her spotless pink Japanese-style blouse and delicate crimson skirt. She pondered, then slowly turned her head to gaze at Makoto.Makoto quickly crossed her arms, took a step back in resistance, and then turned to stare at Yae Miko. Miko's face changed, and she turned away, but no one was staring at her anymore.…Outside."Why haven't you come back yet?"Saiguu clasped her hands anxiously, pacing back and forth at the cave entrance.She glanced at the sky; it was already sunset. Today's sunset glow was a brilliant golden light, like the sky inlaid with gold, exceptionally magnificent.However, Saiguu was in no mood to admire it."It's already the third day.""But it doesn't matter. Ei and Makoto are both here. Nothing can happen.""Wait two more days. If she doesn't come out in two days, I'll go back to the castle tower and stabilize Inazuma's situation."Saiguu muttered anxiously to herself, repeatedly glancing at the situation in the cave.There was still a lot to worry about in Inazuma.The Shogunate was doing well; the new officials, led by Kamisato Ayato, were honest. After all, the previous lesson hadn't been long in coming, and even if humans weren't good at learning from their mistakes, they wouldn't forget them so quickly.However, the cleansing of Inazuma's land taint still required the personal oversight of professionals like Saiguu and Yae Miko. A delay of three or five days was fine, but any longer would inevitably impact Kaguya's grand strategy of national development and hinder the Shogunate's progress."I can transform into both Ei and Kaguya, and Ayaka-chan and Sara-chan are both obedient. With their cooperation, dealing with the problems in Inazuma Castle shouldn't be difficult. The main issue is the shrine... I guess I'll have to work overtime. Or, perhaps, I could disguise myself as Kaguya and ask Shneznaya for another wave of Fatui?"Saiguu began to seriously consider how to single-handedly shoulder the responsibilities of the entire high-level group.The sun gradually set, the light dimming.Saiguu's heart sank.Just as she was about to give up, her snow-white fox ears twitched, detecting movement within the cave."You're back!"Saiguu rushed in.She encountered Kaguya and Makoto, clean and tidy. Then there was the not-so-clean Yae Miko. Not only were her clothes disheveled, but even the hair on her tail had turned an ugly, burnt black. She was still clutching the bleeding Shogun, looking utterly disheveled from head to toe."Hmm..."Saiguu paused, silently taking a few steps away from Yae Miko.Miko's already sullen expression darkened."Master Saiguu, are you serious?""Haha, how could I? Isn't this your chance to shine?"Saiguu smiled sincerely, as if genuinely concerned about the progress of her junior's relationship.Her acting was quite up to par, at least a notch above the dwarf Barbatos, who could only smile—this was the verdict from veteran actress Angel.Unfortunately, the person facing her was also a five-hundred-year-old fox, and she wasn't buying into the fox's tricks."I respectfully invite you! I submit! Bind the demons and subdue the evil! Eliminate all demons! Hurry and obey the command!""Damn it! You have no martial ethics, Miko!"A Shikigami cannot refuse a Command Spell, just as Paimon cannot refuse a delicious meal.So Saiguu took over Yae Miko's duties and embraced the Shogun, her pure, snow-white miko attire stained with blood.Miko smiled triumphantly, then stroked her utterly mangled tail with a look of heartache, tears nearly falling."Oh! I've nurtured it for five hundred years, meticulously grooming it every day!"At this, the Shogun frowned at the repeated disdain.The Shogun's emotional capacity was quite low. She was a puppet, after all, and had been confined to the castle tower as a moving statue since her birth.Furthermore, the only owner who was within reach was a silent, thousand-year-old lightning-struck tree—it was impossible for her to have any emotional intelligence in such a situation!Despite this, the Shogun could still understand something. For example, she could already see that the two vixens disdained her."How dare you! This body is the divine form of the God of Takenami. Even if it's slightly inferior to Kaguya Horaisen's, it's still a supremely noble being in this world! How could I allow you to...""Shut up! You should be polite when you're helped. Didn't Ei teach you that?"Saiguu covered the Shogun's mouth and rolled her eyes in annoyance.But this back-and-forth was ultimately just a way for foxes to express their affection.Saiguu quickly calmed down and smiled."Welcome back.""I was just helping Ei with a minor issue. Can you please have a little more confidence in us?"Raiden Makoto placed her hands on her hips, her posture lecturing, but her tone was soft, just like her gentle and caring personality.Saiguu's smile brightened even more."I understand."Of course, she knew that the Raiden sisters were demons and how powerful they were. But even so, hadn't it taken five hundred years to finally be reunited?Teyvat is never safe, and there's no such thing as a person or god who's infallible. Worry is inevitable."Anyway, let's go home."Saiguu's heart settled, and she immediately embraced the Shogun and headed towards the cave entrance.Kaguya followed her out of the cave, a gust of evening breeze blowing in her face."Ahem! The weather's getting colder."Kaguya coughed a few times but ignored it. The others noticed briefly, then ignored it as if it were normal.But that night, she developed a high fever.The human body can't withstand much stress. Especially since Kaguya's character was still that of a frail, sickly girl. Three days of being out of body and starving for water took a heavy toll on her body.Kaguya was delirious with the fever.Her mind was still intact, fully aware of what was happening outside. But her body couldn't keep up, so she could only react with delirium."Water... water, no, ice! Use ice to cool down! And medicine, I need to find it!"Kamisato Ayaka was scrambling."I'll make ice!""I'll exorcise Kaguya right now!""I'll get a doctor!"The castle tower was suddenly in chaos.Especially after performing magic, it was discovered that Kaguya's illness was caused by a severe loss of vitality, making the exorcism completely ineffective. This made the situation even more chaotic.At this critical moment, Kamisato Ayaka, the only one with experience caring for humans, provided the backbone. This was her first time directing such a high-level operation, but she couldn't afford to waste time, so she mobilized everyone, including the Electro Archon.After a night of this, Kaguya's fever subsided, and she was out of danger.---Chapter 212: I Don't Think the Shogun Is in PainKaguya's serious illness cast a shadow over the joyous event of resolving the Shogun's problem.Thankfully, Kamisato Ayaka discovered the situation promptly and provided appropriate guidance, preventing further disastrous consequences."Fortunately, Kamisato lives with sister."After waking up, Ei wished she could stab herself, while at the same time rejoicing over Kamisato Ayaka's once-envious treatment.Had it been discovered later, it was hard to imagine what would have happened."I think we should have a team of medical personnel stationed permanently at the castle tower, just like the imperial physicians in the mortal kingdom.""Before that, I think you'd better quickly fix up the Shogun. She's probably been lying in the workshop for several days.""The Shogun is fine. She's a doll. She won't die or feel pain."Well, anyway, Ei didn't think she was in pain.Half-lying, half-sitting on the bed, Kaguya frowned. "Ahem! I don't have much strength. Makoto, you teach her for me.""Ei! Kaguya's already like this, why don't you obey her?""Is that what I mean?"Kaguya was about to sit up in excitement.Makoto quickly reached out and held her down, saying flatteringly,"I'm sorry, I was wrong. Don't get excited. Calm down and get well first.""I think I'm just dying. If this mortal body dies, my life as a human will be over, and I'll have to inhabit your body forever.""Right! Then what have we been worrying about these past two days? You're not really going to die.""...I think I misjudged you."She used to think Raiden Makoto was the quiet and shy type, but now she's increasingly convinced she's a fun-loving person.She doesn't even know if she's been led astray by Saiguu and the others, or if she's been the one who's led Saiguu and Yae Miko astray.Perhaps she's different when she's working.However, Raiden really considered Kaguya the primary focus, and Inazuma's work fell entirely on her shoulders. This led to her letting go even more, and Kaguya never got to witness her work style.Kaguya suddenly felt a little annoyed at this thought.I'm a manipulative villain, yet why do I feel like I'm just working for you at Inazuma?Kaguya narrowed her eyes and said coldly,"I need to rest and recuperate. I can't work for a while.""I know. I've already told the Shogunate. They'll hold on for a while...""No. Inazuma's recovery can't be slowed down. What I mean is, you manage these tasks like I do.""Huh? Huh?"The once diligent and civic-minded First Electro Archon's eyes widened, her bright, flawless eyes filled with resistance."Haven't I retired?"Her eyes said so, and her words too.Kaguya narrowed her eyes again. Despite her frail appearance, her aura gained a sharp edge. "I'm sick now, you have to help me.""But I... that..."The tentative basic attack clearly failed to penetrate the enemy's armor protecting the fish's life.Kaguya decided to unleash her ultimate move."If you don't do it, I'll stop supplying light novels and sweets to the castle tower."It was clear that both Raiden Makoto and Raiden Ei shuddered, shaking their heads violently in panic.Trivia: The first generation Electro Archon, Baal, was particularly fond of Inazuma's scenery, food, and human stories, so much so that she would share them endlessly with her sister, Beelzebul. So, naturally, she also fell in love with light novels and sweets from five hundred years later—a level of obsession comparable to Raiden Ei."I'll do it! For the revival of Inazuma, I have no choice but to do it!""Yes. And you, go fix the Shogun. We finally fixed her programming issues, why are you still dragging your feet? You're Inazuma's strongest warrior. What if something happens while you're stalling? You've been the Electro Archon for five hundred years, and you don't even have this much perspective?""Yes, sister!"Under Kaguya's sharp gaze, the Raiden Sisters hurried out.After watching the two troublemakers leave, Kaguya slumped back onto the pillows, glancing sideways at the two vixens sitting upright.They suddenly sat up straighter."Pour me a glass of water.""Okay~~"Yae Miko poured a glass of warm water and brought it to Kaguya's lips. Kaguya took a sip and reached out to touch Miko's cleaned but still somewhat bald tail. She frowned, "It's so gritty, not moisturized at all.""QAQ...""It's said that a new race called the Melusine has emerged in Fontaine over the past few hundred years. They have tails and hair, so they've developed a useful hair conditioner. I'll ask the caravan heading to Fontaine to bring you a few boxes.""Thank you, Kaguya-sama, for your advice. I'll be right there!"Yae Miko scurried off. Kaguya-sama was truly terrifying when she got serious; even lightning wouldn't stand up to her. She, a little fox, should stay away and return when Kaguya's mood cleared.The only remaining fox, Saiguu, quietly donned a white fox mask to minimize her presence."Shrine work...""I'll be right there!"Kaguya had barely begun to speak when Saiguu fled.Kaguya froze for a moment, touched her face, and fell into deep thought. After a moment, she turned to look at Kamisato Ayaka, who had entered with a potion of medicine."Am I that scary?""The sudden fever really scared me half to death."Kamisato Ayaka stared at Kaguya with resentment. Her resentment was accompanied by a surge of heartache.She had thought Kaguya's health had recovered after a period of quiet recuperation. Then, suddenly, she'd been away for a few days, and upon returning, she'd developed a high fever.At that moment, Kamisato Ayaka wanted to grab anyone by the neck and demand to know what they were doing with Kaguya. But the people in the castle tower were either the Shogun, the Chief of Staff, or at the very least, the venerable Tenko-sama.How could a mere mortal like her have the right to question them?Kamisato Ayaka puffed her cheeks slightly and silently passed the potion to Kaguya's lips."...Can I not drink it?""There's candied fruit, but you have to finish it before I give it to you.""Sigh."It wasn't that she was greedy for the honey. What delicious food hadn't Angel tasted?It was mainly because she didn't want to waste Ayaka's hard work, and I didn't want to see her worry.Kaguya finished the medicine with a bitter face, then hurriedly took the candied fruit and put it in her mouth, making a sound of enjoyment."Hmm~~"Kaguya sighed inwardly as she ate the candied fruit.A frail body was truly troublesome. One careless mistake could cause trouble, causing so many people to worry. Especially when she glanced at Ayaka, she could tell she was more silent than usual, clearly troubled."Before, I could take this treatment as Ei's appreciation of her loyalty and ability, but after what happened last night... Ayaka is indeed very smart. Has she noticed something?"It was just a fever, and everyone from the Electro Archon to the Palace Attendant rushed to help. This kind of treatment was simply not something a mortal could ever receive."Ayaka...""You don't have to say anything. I understand. There are some secrets I can't know. Kaguya just needs to focus on taking care of yourself."Kamisato Ayaka had indeed sensed something. But Kaguya wouldn't say anything, so she decided not to ask.Kaguya quietly observed Ayaka's delicate, fair face, a weak, pale smile on her own face. Then she raised her hand and touched the area around her eyes."You have dark circles. Put the bowl aside. Take a nap with me.""Okay."Kamisato Ayaka nodded and smiled meekly. She removed her skirt, armor, shoes, and socks, and slid into bed.Kaguya hugged the sweet, soft girl, taking a deep, savory breath. It wasn't appropriate to reveal too many secrets just yet.Right now, this little intimacy was all she could offer Ayaka.As for not considering the contagion of the disease, which led to Kamisato Ayaka also developing a fever that night, and the fact that two more people were lying flat on their backs, causing even greater chaos in the castle tower, that's a story for another time.--Chapter 213: Angel Is Looking for You Because She Thinks Highly of YouMondstadt, Springvale.A girl in a white dress and white boots glided on wings of wind, her flowing golden hair and skirt carving a graceful path through the air."Favonius Express! Mr. Draff, your takeout has arrived.""Oh! It’s here! Hahahaha! I’ve been waiting for so long!"Draff, the leader of Springvale’s hunters, who had the same cat ears as Diona, ran over ecstatically.Lumine handed over the box. Draff eagerly opened it when he heard Lumine’s cold, formulaic voice. "I need to inform you that Diona, the bartender at the Cat’s Tail Tavern, said they’re short on alcohol. The special cocktail you requested isn’t available, so they’ve substituted juice for you. If you have any complaints, please file them with the Cat’s Tail Tavern. Our company only handles shipping and isn’t responsible for any other commercial disputes, aside from damage to goods during transportation. Of course, considering you’re a big customer, we can deliver your complaint letter free of charge.""What!?"Draff was struck as if by lightning.Looking down, he saw the brightly colored but alcohol-less, freshly squeezed juice in the box. His lips trembled, and he was speechless.Paimon crossed her arms. She looked at Draff with the deadpan eyes of someone who had known this would happen."The target location is Springvale. The tavern has just opened, and they specifically requested Diona’s special brew. It would be strange if she couldn’t guess who it was. She also told you to wait—she’d find time to come home and see you soon.""Damn it! I thought I could get it this way! Luckily, I made a backup plan. Where’s the Angel’s Share?""Oh, this is the Angel’s Share’s signature apple brew. There aren’t any surprises with this one. Please sign for it. And remember to give me a five-star rating, dear~~""Okay!"Draff picked up the apple brew and gulped down a few mouthfuls."Ah~ That feels good~""If you forget to give me a five-star rating, I’ll also forget to keep it a secret from Diona.""Don’t! I’ll give it to you! I’ll definitely remember!""Well then, goodbye. Welcome to call our express delivery service next time. Favonius Express, mission accomplished, you deserve it!"After saying the slogan, Lumine took out the Wind Glider and attached the booster.With a whoosh, she soared into the sky, gracefully flying towards Mondstadt."Favonius Express... The Knights have truly accomplished something significant. But this means we won’t have to worry about selling pork in Springvale anymore, which is all good news."Draff sipped the tavern’s special wine, previously unavailable in Springvale, and walked back with a smile on his face.Then his expression turned bittersweet again.In reality, what he wanted most was his daughter Diona’s special concoction.It wasn’t just a matter of a father’s sentimentality, but primarily because it was truly Mondstadt’s unique craftsmanship, something no drinker could resist.Now that she’s seen through him, he was afraid she would lecture him again when she returned.Middle age is truly a sad state of mind.Draff finished his wine and then drank the juice his daughter had squeezed.The old father felt a mixture of sweetness and bitterness, an indescribable complexity...... "Wow! Another express fee has come in! We’ll definitely make a fortune this way!"Up in the sky, Paimon, held in Lumine’s arms, was calculating with her two short hands. Though she didn’t quite grasp the numbers, a silly, dreamy smile played on her face."Ss... This small amount of money won’t attract much attention, and the effect will be limited."Lumine planned to aim for 10 billion Mora for now, working hard to increase the value of the bounty.As for if there was still no news after 10 billion..."Angel said, bounties are only as good as their sincerity. If there’s no news, it means the sincerity isn’t strong enough."Then let’s aim for 100 billion.As long as the bounty is high enough, all of Teyvat will be her eyes and ears. She’ll definitely find Aether!Lumine landed on the hilltop, full of fighting spirit, and expertly began searching for her prey.Half an hour later."Boom!!!"Sword energy and raging wind flattened half the mountaintop, accompanied by the roar of alchemical weapons exploding. The monster fell under the fierce attack."Swish~~"Lumine expertly and handsomely blew away the smoke from the muzzle and put the alchemical musket back into her bag.After completing these tasks, she once again took off, carrying Paimon under her wing. Back in Mondstadt, she found the Knights’ logistics team and registered for the bounty for the monster-clearing mission. After registering, she had to wait for the Knights’ confirmation before the bounty could be paid.Luckily, the Wolf Knights were there, so those who registered in the evening usually had their confirmation completed the next morning, allowing them to claim their payouts in the afternoon.Lumine’s mood brightened as another Mora was about to be deposited into her account....Then she hurried to Windrise and caught Venti at the foot of the statue, just as he was about to retreat for a drink."Uh, my friend, the Knights have already collected today’s payment. The rest is all mine!"Venti clutched the hat containing the Mora tightly to his chest.The gazes of the two girls, one large and one small, were intensely fixed on the Mora, and it was clear that things were not looking good.Giving it to the Knights is fine, but you two Travelers are trying to steal it. That’s too much, isn’t it?I’m a god after all!Venti clutched his hat tightly in his arms, determined to defend tonight’s drink money to the death."Tsk!"Lumine folded her arms across her chest, shaking her head in disdain."How many Mora do you earn singing in a day? I could earn a hundred times more by delivering a rush order or posting a bounty, and you still think highly of yourself for that?""Hehe! As long as you’re not here to steal, everything’s fine. My dear friends Lumine and Paimon, what do you want from me?""Favonius Express's Angel wants to see you. Do you want to come with me, or do you want me to take you?""Huh?"Venti blinked in confusion.Lumine and Paimon had already blocked his escape route, one on each side."Don’t worry, it’s not a bad thing.""That’s right, Angel wants you because she thinks highly of you. Others want it but don’t have it.""Do you know that Angel makes millions every minute? You’re lucky she’s found time to see you.""That’s right. You don’t even know that she’s been bringing in boxes and boxes of Mora, non-stop. If she lets a little out, it’d be enough to drown us all. Do you know what the wealth of Mondstadt’s richest man is compared to her?"Every word they said pointed to a single word—boot-licking.Paimon was truly powerless against delicious food and Mora. And Lumine also enjoyed both, and she was a quiet lesbian.Coincidentally, Angel possessed all three attributes.So, with just a little effort, she could make the Traveler and Paimon bow down to her will, willingly serving as her lackeys.--Chapter 214: This Is What We Call Win-WinFlanked by two lackeys, Venti could only obediently make his way to a newly renovated, bright, spacious, and stylish office building.In reality, he was mainly curious about what Angel could ask him to do.Venti had a soft spot for the little girl who had coldly taken Mora away, only to turn around and put down the small bread.'You’re still not quite used to getting along with people, and you’re not good at expressing your tenderness. But you’re very similar to you at the beginning, Vanessa...'When people get old, they love to reminisce.Especially when they’re actually enjoying retirement.Seeing Venti and Jean reminded him of the Anemo Archon and the first Dandelion Knight. Seeing Angel also reminded him of Vanessa, fresh out of the Colosseum.There’s also Diluc, who appears cold but is actually a hero of the Night Walkers; Rosaria, who can’t remember the name of the Anemo Archon but protects Mondstadt in her own way...Under the influence of free will, those who once lived in Mondstadt seem to have somehow remained forever.Of course, the wind is free, but who says it can’t have a homeland that it longs to leave?Venti couldn’t help but smile tenderly. Until he saw the little girl in the dark room, sitting upright in a chair propped up by books, one hand adorned with a golden ring drooping.Lumine’s eyes lit up, and she immediately leaned forward, respectfully taking Angel’s hand and kissing it.Paimon also floated over, lying on Angel’s lap, letting Angel stroke her head and chin, purring contentedly like a kitten.Venti: "..."Have I arrived on the set of some Godfather movie?'Vanessa, I recant. She doesn’t look much like you. All you learned from the Colosseum was recklessness, while she’s clearly mastered the essence of the dark world.' Venti’s lips twitched, but before he could say anything, Lumine was already standing solemnly before Angel, speaking attentively."Angel, the person you wanted to see has arrived.""Well, very good. I’ve noticed your recent work performance. How about this: I’ll increase your brother’s bounty by one million as a reward."Angel offered a reward that sounded generous.But it was just talk.The bounty amount typically had to be paid in advance to the issuing agency, to prevent the bounty seeker from failing to pay after the mission was completed, putting the agency in a difficult position.Ultimately, as long as the person hadn’t been found, the money didn’t have to be paid. And Angel knew everyone involved in the bounty, so she could just ask for a favor and change the amount without paying.How could Lumine, who was new to the world, understand the ins and outs of this?She immediately assumed she’d actually been given a million, her eyes lighting up as she took Angel’s hand and kissed it again."One million? One million! I’m going to swim in Mora, hehe..."Paimon was also startled, her eyes swirling. She lay on Angel’s lap, lost in a daze.The only one who saw through the truth was Lord Barbatos, Venti, the ostensibly novice god who was actually the Anemo Archon.However, he didn’t dislike Angel’s cunning. After all, judging by Lumine’s and Paimon’s reactions, they weren’t suffering under Angel’s tutelage and seemed to be doing well. On the contrary, her somewhat flexible moral compass actually suited Barbatos’s taste.So, Venti smiled softly, stroking his harp with a soothing, melodious sound, and spoke."Respected Miss Angel, I’m honored to be summoned. I wonder what instructions you have for a mere bard like me?"As he spoke, a gentle breeze blew through the room, drawing aside the curtains. The golden afterglow of the setting sun streamed in, directly hitting Angel’s adorable face."Ah! So bright! My eyes!"Then Venti and Lumine watched as the blonde girl, sitting on a pile of books, screamed, covered her eyes, and fell to the ground with a thud."Ah!!!"The scream came from the pinned Paimon."Swish~~"Venti blinked in surprise, then whistled and looked away, pretending the gust of wind hadn’t come from him.Lumine, hands on her hips, shook her head and suppressed a laugh."So why are you drawing the curtains?""Because I’m the Dark Boss!""Okay, then, does the Dark Boss need a hug?""...Yes."Angel’s face puffed up, but she didn’t refuse help out of embarrassment. She let Lumine pick her up, lift her high, and place her back on the piled-up seat."Ahem!"Angel coughed dryly, her face stern as she removed the ostentatious, glaring gold ring. She said, "Bard Venti, I have a job for you.""Eh? A job? I don’t want one!"Venti quickly shook his head and waved his hands.Admiring him was fine, but asking him to work was out of the question. He was eager to abandon his position as Anemo Archon, let alone any other job.Angel acted as if she hadn’t heard. With a flick of her finger, a gentle breeze passed the contract to Venti.Although everyone might have forgotten, Angel had "obtained" the Vision during the Battle of Wolvendom, and it was the Anemo Vision, which held the greatest significance for the people of Mondstadt."Favonius Express is newly established. To expand our business, the best way to promote our services is to handle special, expedited, and risk-sensitive orders to demonstrate our capabilities. However, most of these orders involve tight deadlines, long distances, and high-volume shipments, sometimes even in dangerous and treacherous locations. Conventional methods simply cannot fulfill them. I need you to handle these special orders for us. The frequency won’t be very high, but the pay will be generous.""So I’m saying...""How much money can you make singing in the city every day? Just one special express delivery order will keep you well fed for a long time, never going hungry again. Besides, for people like you, handling these orders is a snap of the fingers. It doesn’t take much time, and you can continue singing when you have free time. It’s a win-win cooperation, a deal."Angel’s words were like a barrage of thunder, her arguments coherent and well-reasoned.Venti understood.Do you really believe I’m starving?'This kid is so... gullible and clumsy, just like you, Vanessa.'Since it was the child’s concern, and it didn’t interfere with his hobby of singing poetry and history, and it also provided him with extra income, Venti’s lips curled up. Seeing no reason to refuse, he reluctantly signed his name, "Venti."Then, Angel tossed a bag of Mora over."Advance salary, deducted from your first order. It’s alright, you can go."Angel waved him away expressionlessly, as if slightly disgusted.Venti weighed the bag, his expression immediately serious, then adopted the same servile smile as Lumine and Paimon."Yes! Angel, feel free to call me if you need anything. I’ll be leaving first~~"It was obvious that this Mora would be deposited into the Angel’s Share tavern tonight.And then, thanks to the partnership between Angel’s Share and Favonius Express, it would soon return to Angel’s pocket.This is what we call a win-win situation.---Chapter 215: You Showered While I Was Showering?Because Wendy's compensation required an additional portion to be paid to the Knights, Angel wrote a written instruction and submitted a copy of the contract.When Jean saw the contract, she tilted her head in confusion, her little head buzzing.Old Man on Subway Checking Phone.jpg."First, Lord Andrius and the Wolf Riders, then Lady Wendy and Favonius Express. Does this kid have a connection with the Anemo Archon?"Jean glanced at the document, her mind swirling.However, being able to interact with the Anemo Archon didn't seem so bad at the moment.Jean smiled helplessly and continued reading:"About the Comprehensive Plan for the Use of the New God...""Snap!"Jean slammed the document shut and pressed it against the table, surveying her surroundings for a moment, sweat breaking out on her forehead.Others might not understand the value of the new god, but how could she, the Acting Grand Master with access to so much information, not understand? Not to mention that, with the special guidance of the Anemo Archon, she had recently personally experienced the might of the Wind Dragon Dvalin.How could such a being be so easily joked about?Jean decided to skip the proposal document. It was too exciting. At least she would have to be in the Anemo Archon's presence to dare to look through it carefully. For now, she'd skip it and move on to the next one."Another one about this little fellow."The next document was still related to Angel, describing the latest business developments at Favonius Express.The takeout service, built around the Cat's Tail Tavern, had expanded to many shops in the city, but that wasn't enough to draw Jean's attention. After all, Mondstadt had had takeout services before, but they were all arranged by the shops themselves, some relying on staff, others on the Adventurers' Guild, without any unified regulations.Jean's real focus was on the bulk commodity transportation business, centered around Springvale's forest pork. That was the major undertaking that could transform Mondstadt's business landscape and the true mission of Favonius Express."The demonstration in Springvale seems to have been a resounding success. So many merchants from the Chamber of Commerce are already interested in participating?"Jean smiled knowingly.This was exactly the effect she was aiming for.The Knights are missing their main force, the Fatui are aggressive, and there's the demonic disaster unleashed by the Abyss Order... Although these problems have been resolved for now, it will take time for the business environment to recover. It's impossible for merchants, both domestic and foreign, to become active just because the Knights say everything is fine.The Favonius Express business can effectively boost Mondstadt's market vitality, and it will likely reach even greater heights in the future.But opportunities also present challenges.Mondstadt itself has no historical references, and Jean couldn't fully grasp the various problems that might arise as Favonius Express expands."Hmm? This is... the rail train plan?"While pondering, she turned to a proposal submitted by Angel.At this point, anything Angel submitted received high priority with Jean. The Knights' genius alchemist had fully proven her worth, even more so than the other geniuses, as much of her research held strategic significance.Jean flipped open the train plan with anticipation and curiosity."Build a rail network connecting all of Mondstadt, or even express trains directly to other countries?"Jean's immediate thought was Angel's comprehensive transportation technology.What would the future hold if the two were combined?"Hiss!"Jean couldn't help but gasp.High-speed trains connecting various locations, carrying vast numbers of travelers, merchants, adventurers, and all sorts of cargo, plying the land day and night."It's like a blood vessel connecting everything."Jean touched her forehead, suppressing those thoughts, but the corners of her mouth couldn't help but curl up.This plan was intriguing.She knew a bit about trains and understood the enormous potential of this design. But to deploy it across the land of Mondstadt was a grand undertaking she had never considered."But even putting aside the enormous cost of manpower and resources, the safety issue alone would be difficult to maintain, wouldn't it?"Jean frowned. As Mondstadt's de facto leader, she quickly began to consider the difficulties of this plan.The monsters on Teyvat are inexhaustible. Even if they were completely annihilated within a short period of time, they would continue to rise from the earth's veins after a while. Just like the earth itself cannot absorb the vengeful spirits of those monsters, it can only allow them to crawl back from hell again and again.And the train tracks span the vast expanse of land. To ensure the safety of the entire line, the manpower required to clear monsters and maintain the tracks would be enormous."I see. So there's another design? Install remote-controlled automated alchemical cannons and monitoring equipment along the entire line. This way, a dedicated monitoring and maintenance team in Mondstadt could solve most problems, and the Wolf Riders could be deployed when necessary."As expected, she saw a comprehensive plan for safety issues later in the plan.Jean smiled, not only for the solution, but also for Angel's progress."At first, you only cared about what you wanted, completely disregarding practical realities. Now you don't need me to remind you... If you keep this up, becoming the next Grand Master shouldn't be a problem, right? In fact, it's quite something to look forward to."Jean gathered her thoughts and then carefully reviewed the entire plan. Her final conclusion."A great plan! I can imagine it ushering in an era of unprecedented prosperity for Mondstadt."But is this the Mondstadt the Anemo Archon wants?Jean paused, then smiled and shook her head.Of course she will, right?The Anemo Archon will grant Mondstadt freedom, allowing the people of Mondstadt to create their own happy lives. She certainly wants them to thrive and build a more prosperous and beautiful nation.The real question is, can she grasp the situation?Benefits inevitably come with risks and drawbacks.The greater the benefits, the greater the challenges ahead.Can she, and the current Knights of Favonius, truly seize such an era?"Lord Anemo Archon...""Hmm? Something for me?""Snap!"A familiar, fragrant breeze drifted over, accompanied by the sound of Wendy chewing on a Sunsetia.Jean blinked, and as expected, she saw the fresh Sunsetia she'd brought just for her. She smiled helplessly."Why do you always appear and disappear without a trace?""That's just how it is with the Anemo Archon. You understand. Oh, if you're worried about showering or changing clothes, don't worry. I'll be waiting outside for you.""..."No, you've been squatting outside the door or window while I showered and changed clothes.Wendy gave a cute, self-assured smile that almost seemed to be asking for praise.This made Jean even more helpless, so she picked up the Sunsetia the Anemo Archon had brought her. With a snap, it was even sweeter than she'd imagined.---Chapter 216: Just One Hundred, Here You Go"Lady Wendy, I'm a little insecure.""Why?""I'm worried I won't do well and will hurt everyone.""Then, from a purely rational perspective, which is better for everyone, doing it or not doing it?"Wendy looked at Jean with a casual, outsider's expression, her clear, emerald green eyes.The wind blew her cool, flowing clothes, revealing her alluring figure, every inch as white and delicate as milk, like a bewitching fairy.Jean took in this beautiful scene, stunned for a moment."Dandelion Knights are synonymous with integrity and bravery, and most importantly, the courage to face difficulties. I understand, Lord Anemo Archon.""Hmm? What do you understand?"Wendy asked, chewing a Sunsetia.Jean smiled, but said nothing.If the Anemo Archon was interested, she would certainly be happy to tell her everythingUnfortunately, whether it was the return of power to someone else a thousand years ago or her recent personal interactions, Jean knew that Lady Anemo Archon had no interest in such mundane matters.She'd probably rather compare the sweetness of fruits from different regions, or check in on how she and Barbara were getting along."Lady Wendy, are you here for something?""Nothing, just bored.""Well, that's just your style."Jean shook her head amusedly.She now understands Lady Vanessa's mentality of chasing the Anemo Archon away like a squirrel."Ah, speaking of which, are you sleeping with Barbara tonight?""Uh, probably not. We discussed moving in together a few days ago, but we haven't done it yet. At least, Barbara didn't say she'd come over today.""That's great! I miss your nice, soft bed, too! I'll sleep over tonight!""...Okay, it would be my pleasure."Jean scratched her face, finding no reason to refuse.In fact, this wasn't the first time. She'd even shared the same bad with the two sisters before.Jean and Barbara weren't opposed.Although there were no rules in the texts that required girls to remain chaste for the Anemo Archon, the benevolent God of Freedom wouldn't use such feudal and oppressive rules to constrain her subjects.But if the Anemo Archon truly needed to offer her life, what devout girl would refuse?From a believer's perspective, offering her bed to the Anemo Archon and sleeping with them was a definite sign of divine favor.—Of course, that assumes the Anemo Archon is someone like Wendy.If he were a drunkard who spent his days joking and slacking off, it would be a different story.Jean casually picked up another document. "But it'll probably be quite late by the time I finish this.""Don't worry, take your time. I'll just watch you."Wendy actually rested her hands on her chin, her voluptuous upper body propped up on the table, her long, jade-like legs floating in the air, her round, juicy butt sticking out, and she began to look at it with a smile.Jean: "..."Okay, you're the Anemo Archon, you're amazing.Jean shook her head again, her gaze fixed on the "Package of Plans Regarding the Use of the New God." She stroked her chin thoughtfully."All signs indicate that Mr. Venti is still under the observation of the Anemo Archon. It's not unusual for a God's observation to last for hundreds or even thousands of years, right? It's only natural that the assessment includes the ability to cooperate with mortals. With the help of the God's power, the initial construction of the train project will be much simpler."Her beautiful purple eyes glanced to the side, catching sight of the Anemo Archon continuing to nibble on the Sunsetia.Jean took a deep breath, then reached out and reopened the package.…"A-choo!"At the [Angel's Gift] bar, Venti, holding a half-empty glass, rubbed his nose in confusion.Paimon floated over, hands on hips, and asked with concern."Singer, are you cold?""No, how could I be cold? Want a drink? I'm rich today, it's my treat!""I'm happy to be treated, but I don't like alcohol. You should treat me, Lumine.""All right, all right! Hahaha, Lumine, cheers!"Venti raised his glass with a laugh, a drunken flush on his face.It was clear that the bard was in high spirits.After all, it was a rare opportunity to have a full wallet, so he had to drink to his heart's content.Lumine took a sip, but not too much, remaining sober. She certainly hadn't come to drink with a drunk; she had questions to ask."Venti, do you know something about my brother?""Pfft! Why would you think that?""Because you're also a god... well, everyone knows it."Considering that the people around her were ordinary Mondstadt citizens, Lumine was a little more tactful. After a moment's thought, she pulled out a bag of Mora and placed it on Venti's lap.Venti's eyes twitched."You're learning from Angel so quickly, aren't you?""How dare you! Is that the right person to call Angel? You should call her Boss Angelgel!""..."It wasn't Lumine who mindlessly defended Angel, but Paimon, who was listening in, puffing her chest and looking arrogant.But Wendy and Lumine were used to it.Paimon was like that. Once she found a backer, she'd start leveraging their influence. But there was no need to suspect she had any ill intentions. She wasn't that kind of person; she was just showing off."Paimon, there's a grilled fish. Take your time with it.""Okay."The white floating spirit went to compete with the grilled fish.Lumine then looked directly at Wendy."You're a god after all. My intuition tells me you might know something.""Well, my friend, don't you think the Anemo Archon knows more than I do?""In theory, yes, but she seems to have some restrictions, so I can't ask too much.""So you can't bear to push her, so you're pushing me, right?" Venti pointed at himself innocently.Lumine nodded decisively. Venti gulped down his glass, asked the bartender for another, and then spoke seriously, "As for your question, I'm not saying that I cant, but I can't say it this way, right? I know you're anxious, but so are others, so don't rush. I think you need to consider the actual situation. You need to know...""Stop! I understand. Goodbye. Pay."Lumine raised her hand to stop the bard from using his tricks, knowing this approach wouldn't work. She finished her drink expressionlessly and put down her glass.Then, she mentioned Paimon, who had just finished his fish, and planned to go home and pick up Angel.Paimon patted her belly and waved cheerfully at Venti."Venti, thank you for the fish!""Sure, sure. See you next time.""Bye~~"After eating someone else's food, Paimon's mouth suddenly felt sweet.Lumine was speechless for a moment, glancing at the bag of Mora that Venti hadn't taken back. Venti quickly pocketed the Mora bag and gave Lumine a simple, innocent smile."It's only a hundred bucks, and the rest are just rocks. Not worth that grilled fish, so I'll give it to you.""A hundred, okay."Venti smacked his lips and quickly resumed drinking with a nonchalant air.The duel between a slacker and a hard worker was a showdown between two masters, both shameless.Lumine's lip curled as she carried Paimon out.On the way out, she caught a glimpse of a strange yet distinct face."Eye patch? Stars in the eyes? A relative of Kaeya?"With a hint of surprise, Lumine left the tavern.---Chapter 217: It's Khaenri'ah"Angel, aren't you... still okay? I... I can't... ah... take it anymore...""Not yet, not yet. Just hold on a little longer!""Ah!"Lumine collapsed, falling in front of the elemental power input platform. She slumped to the ground, her slender, white legs twitching uncontrollably. She stretched out a hand, her index finger pointed stubbornly forward."Captain... no, Lumine!"Paimon rushed over, tearfully pushing Lumine's body.Lumine pushed her away."Stop it.""Are you okay?""It's just an experiment. I'm just a little tired. What's the problem?""Hmph! Don't try to scare me like that!"Paimon angrily punched a fist.A [Health -5] indicator popped up above Paimon's head. Paimon, clutching her reddened hands, threw herself on Angel, tears welling up in her eyes.Angel embraced her, patted her head, and thoughtfully gazed at the ball of elemental force on the circular platform.A cyan condensation of Anemo elemental force floated within a transparent containment shield, occasionally releasing erratic whirlwinds of air. But after a moment, the ball dissipated."Alas, it still doesn't work."Angel pouted and shook her head in disappointment.Lumine finally climbed to her feet and pressed herself against Angel from behind, hanging onto her back. "So what are you experimenting with?""I want to try to artificially synthesize divine power with elemental energy.""Hmm? Is that even possible?""They're all based on elemental energy. The difference between a possessor of a Vision and a god might not be as vast as people imagine. It's likely just a difference in quality. Scholars throughout history have never given up on exploring such transcendent beings as gods... For example, the Abyss Order, which took action earlier, has clearly conducted considerable research on gods. And I have reason to believe that the Fatui are also conducting research in this area, and they've likely already achieved considerable success."In fact, much of the research is contained in Dottore's memories, now at Irminsul.Dottore doesn't deserve to be thanked, but his efforts have certainly saved Angel a lot of time and energy.Talking about business, Angel's face lost its childishness, replaced by a convincing seriousness and composure."Angel is quite captivating this way!"Lumine hugged the petite Angel tightly, pressing her cheek against hers, nuzzling against her, and sighed contentedly. After absorbing enough Angel Elements, Lumine's expression grew serious."The Fatui are from Snezhnaya, right? From what I've heard these days, they don't seem very welcome.""Not just unwelcome, they're downright hostile. The Fatui are Snezhnaya's diplomatic corps, with a presence in all seven nations. I hear they're powerful and full of experts, but they often act arbitrarily and arrogantly in foreign lands, often even linked to crime. They exploit their diplomatic immunity to do whatever they want... In short, they're very dangerous, and everyone dislikes them. Lumine, we'd better stay away from people like them from now on."Playing her role as a guide, Paimon explained the basics of the organization.Lumine nodded in understanding. "Is that so? Then I'd better stay away. I don't want to be wanted by any country anymore.""It doesn't matter, because the Fatui will definitely be very friendly for quite some time.""Huh?""Haven't you heard? The Fatui angered the Raiden Shogun of Inazuma. She shot six arrows to the six nations, announcing a challenge to the Cryo Archon... The details are unknown, but the result was that Snezhnaya unconditionally compensated Inazuma. Now, a large amount of Snezhnaya's resources are continuously being sent to Inazuma, and waves of Fatui continue to go to Inazuma to work. After what happened, do you think they dare to be so arrogant?"Lumine blinked in surprise.Paimon also looked incredulous."There's this?" ×2They'd been obsessed with money these days, either earning or on their way to earn money. The archery incident was a big deal, and they knew a little about it, but they hadn't really paid much attention to it.Lumine was only surprised for a moment, then put the matter out of her mind. Anyway, she knew neither the Inazuma nor the Fatui, so this matter had nothing to do with her, a traveler from another world simply looking for her brother."Speaking of which, I saw someone at the Angel's Share tavern today. He was wearing an eyepatch and had star-shaped pupils. He looked like one of Kaeya's relatives.""Huh? Lumine, did you see that too? I noticed it while eating fish too. He looked very strange, and he didn't seem easy to get along with. But speaking of eyepatch, you can only think of Kaeya's relatives, right?"Lumine and Paimon said, laughing, as if sharing anecdotes, flanking Angel."Star-shaped pupils?"Angel raised an eyebrow imperceptibly."Wendy, check.""It's indeed from Khaenri'ah."Wendy's response was concise, but it got straight to the point.The Angels had been operating in Teyvat for some time, so they were naturally familiar with the term. The origin of the catastrophe five hundred years ago, the origin of Rhinedottir and Albedo, and most crucially, a term closely related to the Abyss.'Irminsul, check.'[Note: Records of the Khaenri'ahns only date back five hundred years. After the catastrophe, no Khaenri'ahn memories or souls returned to the tree. It's speculated that Celestia made special arrangements to prevent the Khaenri'ahns from contaminating Irminsul with Abyssal elements.][Hmm?] ×NAngel's interest had grown.The Abyss is a formidable force.Currently, it appears to be a faction capable of rivaling Celestia, perhaps even surpassing it.At the same time, the Abyss is extremely hostile to life in Teyvat. But Angel discovered through her encounters that it lacks the strangeness of Honkai energy.'A dragon seized the power of the Abyss, returned from outer space, and waged a war with the Primordial One for the world, ultimately destroying civilization—this is a path worth emulating.'Based on the fragmentary intelligence we've gathered so far, the Abyss lies beyond the sky. Perhaps its power is even greater than we imagined, making it worth exploring.Beyond the true world lies the boundless void, a vast quantum sea of emptiness.But the false sky is merely the boundary of Teyvat, far from being the world's edge. Teyvat is a small box bounded by unique rules, a part of the world, not its entirety. Beyond Teyvat lies a vaster space, like the cosmic starry sky.When Angel arrived, she rushed directly to this unique place, Teyvat, and didn't have time to research what lay beyond it.It's not too late to start catching up now.'The Abyss Order comes and goes so swiftly, and our several encounters have occurred under the watchful eyes of the Geo Archon and the Anemo Archon, leaving them no time to make any moves. Without a guide, the spatial structure of Teyvat is still unfamiliar to us, making tracking a challenge. If we follow the Khaenri'ahns as our guide, can we find a path directly to the Abyss?'[Who will take this path?]'Descender Angel is the best fit.'[Okay, I'll do it.]Angel caressed Lumine's face, the corners of her mouth curling up slowly.Irminsul flickered with light, feeding more information back to everyone.Maria who had just returned to Liyue Harbor, Eylse who was tucking Furina into bed, Kaguya who was still asleep, Descender Angel who was sipping tea, and the others all nodded in agreement.Wendy followed Jean to her home, collapsed onto the sofa, and waved a breeze.[Barbatos, I noticed an unfamiliar Khaenri'ahn has come to Mondstadt!]"Puff!!!"In the tavern, Venti wiped the wine from the corner of his mouth, glanced at the clueless Dainsleif, and scratched his head in agony.His heir was too brilliant, and so perceptive.What should he do?---Chapter 218: Mondstadt's Attention[Uh, don't we have Khaenri'ahns and the like?][Kaeya is another matter. I trust the judgment of Jean and Diluc.][...][Stop slacking off. What's your take on this? Could it be a spy for the Abyss Order? How should we handle this? I'm not asking you to do anything, but at least give me some advice. I'm not sure.]The voice of Wendy, the successor, carried through the wind, a mixture of resignation and disdain.She sounded as if she didn't expect her senior to do anything, simply trying to gather information to make a decision.She's very proactive and responsible.But why does it feel like she doesn't quite trust me, the senior Anemo Archon?How could I, Barbatos, endure such injustice?I, Barbatos, can certainly endure it, and I'm quite happy about it, hehe!'Dainsleif isn't a spy for the Abyss Order. On the contrary, he's been investigating and thwarting their plots. He's a Khaenri'ahn, but that doesn't mean all Khaenri'ahns are bad.''You mean I should just go with the flow and adapt?''Then I don't know. You're the Anemo Archon now, and I'm just a lazy bard... and a special courier for the Knights of Favonius. Eh!''You!'The successor ended the call with a curse.Barbatos didn't take it seriously. He sipped his cider with relish, looking away from Dainsleif. Then, with a smile, he asked the bartender for more."Venti, are you sure you have enough money?"Bartender Charles pinched his neatly combed beard and narrowed his eyes.It was mainly because Venti was so special. The first time he came, Charles had thought he was underage and turned him away. Later, as he gradually accepted him as an adult, he discovered he was a pauper and a drunkard, the kind who could drink even the cheapest alcohol and end up in debt.Once or twice, the Angel's Share wasn't so unkind.But after so many times, Charles had to be on guard, making sure he didn't end up with a dreadful bill at the end of the month.And today, Venti had ordered all the expensive, fine wines, which made him even more wary.Charles was a sturdy man with a rather imposing appearance, and when he got serious, he was indeed somewhat intimidating.In any case, Venti was frightened by this "ancient Greek god of wine." After a moment's thought, he placed the advance salary package from Angel and the hundred-Mora bag from Lumine on the table, creating a pleasant clattering sound. Then, with a wry smile, he spoke, "I've got a good job. I'm rich today, so don't worry!""Okay. But drink less. Excessive drinking isn't good for your health."Charles didn't delve into it, simply looking at Venti's flushed face and shaking his head helplessly. He'd seen people who loved to drink, but he'd never seen someone like Venti, showing up every day, drinking until he was in debt, and then staggering away.If this continues, he'll either starve to death or drink himself to death, and sooner or later, he'll die suddenly.Charles wondered if he could somehow get this guy to moderate himself while pouring drinks for the customers.This went on until midnight.Charles poured out two bags of Mora, counted the money, and finally, with a scowl, tossed a bag of stones to Venti."The other bag was just stones! You lied to me! It's not enough!""Hey! I'll give you more next time. Bye~~""Get lost!"The bard, clutching the bag of stones, fled in a panic.And then it was time to close the tavern. Dainsleif rose and hurried off. He was absorbed in thought and recollection, oblivious to the numerous gazes he had received, both overt and covert.At least, he didn't notice that after he left, Charles had quietly written down information about him in a notebook, which would soon be handed over to the powerful figure behind the tavern.The Angel's Share was a tavern, but it was more than just a tavern; it was also the eyes of the Ragnvindr clan.Otherwise, how could the Darknight Hero accurately strike the darkness of Mondstadt?...For the next few days, Dainsleif continued to wander Mondstadt and the wilds of Wolvendom.He gradually became aware of the many subtle gazes he was receiving. The Knights of Favonius, the wolves of Wolvendom, and even the bartender at the tavern—they were all connected to the major powers in Mondstadt.But this was normal. Khaenri'ah's attire and appearance were distinct from those of ordinary people. It would be unusual for him to appear so abruptly in a capital city without attracting any attention. Dainsleif felt that as long as he didn't do anything sensitive, he wouldn't get into trouble. So he continued his sightseeing, tracking down any traces of the Abyss Order.'They attacked Andrius, but were ambushed and driven back by the Anemo Archon and the Geo Archon. They must have suffered heavy losses, and they won't be able to make any moves in Mondstadt in the near future. So, my trip was in vain? Well, a wasted trip is a good thing.''The Seven Archons and their nations are more powerful than I imagined.'Dainsleif sighed with mixed feelings.His homeland was gone, and now, watching the Seven Nations gradually emerge from the shadows of the past, even having the strength to forcefully repel the Abyss's actions once again, a lonely ghost without a homeland didn't know what to think.'Let's explore Wolvendom again, and then visit Stormterror's Lair. The world's first Field Tiller, the core component used by the Abyss Order to build the Mechanical God... I hope I can get there first this time. The dangers of the Abyss must not spread any further.'Dainsleif continued his stroll.Glancing around the corner, he saw a dark-skinned young man wearing a pirate eyepatch, sitting on the terrace of a restaurant. He waved at him with a broad smile.It looked like a chance encounter, a friendly gesture.‘Hmph! A descendant of the Khaenri'ahn people, you want to approach me but dare not. Are you afraid of something? Or do you have other motives? Never mind. It’s the Mondstadt people’s business, none of my business.’Dainsleif ignored him and continued his leisure time.Seeing Dainsleif disappear around the corner, Kaeya’s smile remained unchanged. He casually accepted the drinks offered by the waitress and thanked her with a smile. He then gave one to himself and one to the red-haired young man across from him."Grandpa Diluc, please! Although it's just a street vendor, thanks to our talented alchemist, Little Angel, the quality of food and ingredients in Mondstadt's restaurants has greatly improved. I'm sure you won't be disappointed.""You know him? Are you related to him? Do you know what he's up to?""Oh! Your question truly terrifies me. How could I possibly be related to a foreign visitor who's never been seen before? As a member of the Knights, I know nothing. Seriously."Kaeya raised his index finger and winked sincerely.Only in the words "member of the Knights" did Kaeya emphasize the words.---Chapter 219: Is There Such a Thing...Diluc stared at him coldly for a moment. After a moment, as if understanding something, he lowered his eyes and said calmly:"This is best. I'll go find Jean, and you... take care of yourself."What he really wanted to say was, "Don't be impulsive, don't take risks."However, Diluc clearly wasn't the type to say that.Thankfully, Kaeya understood his brother's true feelings. He raised his hands, his movements casual, but his eyes were calm, and he said playfully."Grandpa Diluc, please forgive me. I can't get involved in such a dangerous situation. You know why.""Hmph!"With a smirk on his face, Diluc drank his drink, left Mora behind, and headed straight for the Knights' headquarters.In the past, if a strange Khaenri'ah native had arrived in the city, Diluc would have simply observed and pursued them carefully on his own.He didn't trust the Knights.But then was then, and now is now.The Knights in the absence of the Anemo Archon are different from the Knights acting on his behalf. At least judging by their recent performance, Diluc had managed to regain some trust in the Knights.In the Knights' headquarters, in her office, Jean was toiling away at her desk as usual.Surprised to see Diluc, a rare visitor, she rose to greet him."Welcome, Master Diluc. I'll get some tea...""No need to be so extraneous. You know me. Let's get down to business. And don't call me Master.""Okay, Master Diluc.""..."Diluc stared intently into Jean's eyes, a look of silence written across his face.Jean, however, remained beaming, not a trace of embarrassment."Sigh!"After a moment, Diluc shook his head and sighed, sitting down on the sofa. He spoke."Is it because of that person? You seem to have changed quite a bit.""Huh? Am I?""You're not as nervous as before, constantly on edge. You've become much more relaxed.""Haha! Master Diluc is the same way. You never set foot in the Knights' headquarters before. So you're really not considering coming back? The Knights need your strength right now, and with you around, I can feel more at ease."Jean stared at Diluc with a burning gaze. Diluc had once been a model knight whom Jean respected and admired. Not only was he skilled, but he was also calm and wise, with a passion that inspired everyone. She believed from the bottom of her heart that Diluc's departure was the Knights' greatest loss in recent years.If it weren't for that messed-up deal, Diluc might have been a more suitable person to serve as Acting Grand Master.Diluc frowned and shook his head coldly."There's no need to discuss meaningless matters. I have my own principles, and there's no need to dwell on this matter. I'm here because of a foreign visitor. You might have noticed he's wearing an eyepatch, and his attire and demeanor are quite unusual... He's from Khaenri'ah."Diluc knew the secret of Kaeya's life.It was shortly after their father's tragic departure from them. He'd fought Kaeya over this, leading to Kaeya's acquisition of the Vision. This, in turn, was the reason the two brothers parted ways.Time had passed, and now that he had calmed down, Diluc admitted he'd been too aggressive. He'd clearly understood Kaeya's true character, having grown up together.While the misunderstanding had been resolved, they had chosen different paths, each upholding justice with their own philosophies and methods.They could never go back to the way they were back then.Jean was startled by that peculiar word, her eyes widening."Master Diluc, are you sure?""I am. For some reason, I've collected information on Khaenri'ah and know some of its characteristics. I've also confirmed this through... other means."Diluc didn't mention Kaeya.Jean didn't press the issue; she was more focused on the Khaenri'ah person."From what I understand, Khaenri'ah is closely connected to...""The Abyss Order. Considering what Mondstadt just experienced, I think it's necessary to keep a close eye on him and find out what he's up to.""I understand."Jean nodded earnestly.They were both intelligent people, and they understood immediately.Diluc believed Jean understood the gravity of the situation and that she would use the power of the Knights to do what was necessary. Then, with a serious expression, he asked."I heard that the bard was recruited by Favonius Express?""Angel recruited him. She said that kind of person is best suited to handle those urgent, large orders that ordinary people can't handle."Jean also had an indescribable, subtle expression.Diluc was silent for a long moment, his face blank with deep thought and utter bewilderment. He spoke slowly."Why is she so confident?""Maybe it's the inherent courage of children. Or maybe her intuition is spot on, just like how she was the first to discover that Lord Andrius was actually quite reasonable.""She's a talent. Be kind to her," Diluc emphasized dryly.Genius alchemists are rare, of course, but the ability to deal with gods is truly priceless.Take the Wolf Riders, for example. Most people only see their majesty and efficiency, but those with true insight understand that this unit represents the support of the Great Wolf Andrius.For this reason alone, the Fatui have to show some respect for the Wolf Riders.Angel's abilities almost guarantee that the Knights will maintain their formidable power as long as she remains with them."Master Diluc, do you think that after Lord Venti demonstrates his abilities and delivers a few orders, the six nations will mistakenly believe that the Anemo Archon is behind Favonius Express?""It's hard to say, but it's possible. Do you look down on my vision, or do you think I've fallen for a scumbag who only cares about Mora? I understand the pros and cons and know the benefits of Favonius Express to Mondstadt. Dawn Winery will provide additional support. There's no need to use such rhetoric, tempting me with future profits from Favonius Express.""Thank you very much."Jean scratched her face awkwardly.She hadn't expected to be fooled; she had only mentioned it subtly.Diluc gave her a sidelong glance. Having finished his business, he didn't want to linger in this place that had left behind such bad memories, so he left immediately."Ah, you seem to be disdained, Jean.""You're here again."Jean said the word "again" with a look of extreme frustration.It seemed as if the Anemo Archon's appearances were increasing with each passing day. Was there something special about the office that attracted her?Jean glanced around suspiciously, finding nothing particularly appealing.Or was it that Lady Wendy's hobby was to come close to others while they were working? Otherwise, how could there be a history of Lady Vanessa driving the Anemo Archon away?Jean, puzzled and helpless, could only continue the previous topic. "Lady Wendy, regarding that Khaenri'ah man, this is a matter of great importance. Do you have any instructions?""You're the leader. You can handle this matter on your own. I won't interfere. But from what I hear, this guy isn't a bad person... maybe?""I understand. I'll handle it. Besides, I'm only Acting Grand Master!""It doesn't matter. Falga won't have any objections. Don't worry."Wendy ate her apple with a bright, carefree smile.Jean, however, covered her face with her hands and sighed. She felt she was increasingly understanding Lady Vanessa's feelings, and perhaps she wasn't far from doing something like that herself—though she would still try to be gentle.After all, Lady Wendy was very lovable.Then, Jean returned to the main topic, musing to herself."It seems we can't use the Knights to contact a Khaenri'ah man with unknown motives; that would easily arouse suspicion. Is there someone with no direct ties to Mondstadt officials, preferably a foreign visitor with unknown origins like him, who can be mobilized and trusted...""Captain Jean! I'm here to collect yesterday's bounty and stopped by to see you!"Lumine flung the door open and entered, a bright smile on her face.An even more excited smile appeared on her adorable little face. Because besides Jean's still-charming hips, even the rarely seen enchanting Anemo Archon Wendy was sitting on the sofa, her long, round legs lifted, and she greeted her with a smile."Hey! Isn't that Wendy? Long time no see. How are you?""I'm a god. I don't get sick. Everything's normal. I heard you recently got a great job and are making a fortune. Congratulations!""Not really. It's all thanks to Angel and Captain Jean. It's rare to see each other. Do you want to have dinner together?""Sure! I have dinner plans with Jean and Barbara tonight. Or maybe I'll bring you, Paimon, and little Angel, and we can all get together."Lumine held and gently caressed Wendy's delicate hand. The two of them chatted animatedly.Jean stared at Lumine pressing herself against Wendy's and tapped her palm in sudden realization."There really are people like that!"---Chapter 220: The People of Mondstadt Are Really UnculturedFor some reason, Lumine suddenly saw a yellow exclamation point above Captain Jean's head."The famous brigade...""Skip!""Anyway, here's what happened."Jean just smiled unwaveringly at the traveler's nonsense. She described the stranger in the city, then explained in detail his identity as a Khaenri'ahn and their basic situation.After all, Lumine was recognized by the Anemo Archon, so the Knights had no reason not to trust her. Besides, Jean trusted her own eyes. She knew Lumine could be a little eccentric at times, but she was definitely not a bad person.After explaining the basic situation, Jean offered to help investigate Dainsleif. Finally, Jean tilted her head in a dazed manner."So, what does Skip mean?""...Nothing."So the Skip shortcut doesn't work?But why did Katheryne always accept her instructions with a smile?Lumine stroked her chin and blinked in confusion.That night, Lumine slept soundly, grinning in her dreams.Wendy and Angel also silently praised her for this.The next morning, Lumine went to find Katheryne."Towards the stars and the abyss...""Skip!""Dear Traveler, how can I help you?""Katheryne, can you really receive the skip command?"Lumine leaned over the counter, curiously leaning in, observing Katheryne's face.Katheryne, with a perfect, gentle smile, shook her head."I don't have that ability.""Then why do you always skip when I said so? ""Because that's what the Traveler wants."The Adventurers' Guild's poster girl, the ever-beautiful Katheryne, replied in an incredibly soft and doting tone.Lumine was stunned for a moment, a blush spreading across her face. She spoke shyly, "Hey, hey! So, aren't you angry that I've interrupted you so many times?"Katheryne's smile remained gentle, as if silently answering the question.Then she asked, "So, is there something wrong with the Traveler's visit this time?""Oh, by the way, I wanted to ask, Katheryne, are you aware of a strange stranger who's recently appeared in Mondstadt? One of those foreigners you've never seen before, with strange behavior and a different look... I'm not talking about myself, but someone else, right?"Lumine looked at Katheryne expectantly.The Adventurers' Guild is a powerful and well-informed organization, usually the best starting point for investigations. Katheryne nodded with a thoughtful look."There is indeed such a person. However, I only see him passing by occasionally, so I'm not very familiar with him. If you want more information, I suggest asking other people in the city.""Is that so? Okay then. I'll see you next time! Goodbye, Katheryne!"Lumine and Paimon ran off with a smile.Katheryne waved until they disappeared into the crowd. Then, she turned to the small face peeking out from the edge of the counter, her smile faltering."Miss Angel, you...""Want to have your fists transformed into rockets? Want to fire destructive laser cannons with your mouth? Want to merge into a super robot? Then come to my lab!""Haha, I don't think so. So, Miss Angel, would you like a snack?""Yes!"Angel jumped up, leaned over the counter, and took the pastry Katheryne offered. Her eyes narrowed in delight at the soft, sweet taste. She even unconsciously licked Katheryne's jade-white fingertips.Katheryne raised an eyebrow and gently stroked Angel's never-getting-tired, silky hair, a smile of enjoyment on her face.The Knights' genius young alchemist seemed particularly interested in Snezhnaya's technology and its robots, so she'd come to tempt her into her lab every now and then. But at the same time, she was a good girl who wouldn't force anyone, and if she was politely refused, she wouldn't force anything.Although, it wouldn't be long before she'd come back and ask again.In short, she was just adorable.Katheryne smiled and continued petting.Who says robots can't like cute things?.. Lumine displayed her fearless social skills. After cordially communicating with the woman at the souvenir shop, the woman at the Deer Hunter Restaurant, the cat girl at the Cat's Tail Tavern, the girl at the street flower shop, and after harvesting some poultry while the kid on the bridge went home to look for breadcrumbs, she finally pinpointed Dainsleif's whereabouts.Night. Venti and Angel received their second salary advance and happily returned to the Angel's Gift tavern.Dainsleif sat in a corner, ordering a few drinks and enjoying himself.Strange... Why did the kids on the bridge look so distraught and furious when I came back today?Who would mess with kids for no reason?The people of Mond are truly uncultured.Dainsleif pondered absentmindedly.Then, the blonde-haired Traveler, who had brought unjust accusations upon the people of Mond, appeared across from him.Lumine sat down as if no one was around, fingers crossed, and adopted the gaze of a Commander.Dainsleif, without even looking up, said coldly. "What's up?""A foreigner?""Yes.""Me too. How about getting to know each other?"Dainsleif finally looked up, then froze.The white floating spirit, wearing sunglasses and looking cool, could be ignored; it was just an insignificant decoration.But the familiar blond hair and confident, resolute eyes plunged Dainsleif into memories.After a long pause, he lowered his head, continuing to mix his drink using the same Khaenri'ah techniques he'd used in the past.He spoke."I know you, the Traveler who's recently gained notoriety in Mondstadt. I heard you were first wanted for blowing up the temple, but later pardoned by the Anemo Archon for helping the East Wind Dragon cleanse its curse... Do you think you were the key to lifting the curse?""Of course I was!"Lumine folded her arms across her chest, her lips curled up.Although Wendy's support was the reason she was able to fight Dvalin, and Jean's help was also involved, the ultimate purification of the poisonous blood was undoubtedly her own. Even Angel, after her later research, suggested she might have a special physique capable of neutralizing the power of the Abyss.So, the primary credit must be mine.Lumine was full of confidence.Dainsleif fell silent.'She's different from you, Aether...'The friend he'd always remembered was always gentle and humble, while the Traveler before him was more confident and proud. Yet, the brother and sister's eyes held the same resolute and fearless look."Dainsleif, that's my name.""I'm Lumine. This is my emergency food... uh, partner and guide, Paimon.""Hey!"Paimon turned around and stamped her feet angrily.However, Lumine ignored the emergency food's meaningless protests and simply extended her hand to Dainsleif. Dainsleif hesitated, then shook Lumine's hand."So, what do you want from me?""Nothing. It's rare to meet a foreigner like me, so I came to get acquainted.""I see. You've been sent here by the Mondstadt authorities, right? Perhaps also by the request of the Anemo Archon, who frequently visits the Knights' headquarters.""You even know the Anemo Archon's whereabouts. You're truly extraordinary!"Lumine's eyes gleamed.---Chapter 221: The Lady in ActionDainsleif ignored Lumine's gaze, simply mixing his own drink and taking a sip, appearing contented.Lumine stared at him intently."Get straight to the point. I want to know what your purpose is in Mondstadt?""To track down the Abyss Order and stop their plot to destroy the world."Lumine's question was direct, and Dainsleif answered straightforwardly.Primarily, Lumine was his old friend's sister; there was no need to hide such a thing from her.Besides, Dainsleif was almost certain that the Anemo Archon was overhearing this conversation. Although he came from a land devoid of belief in gods and held them in low regard, he was still on their territory, and using the Riddler's tricks at this moment could easily lead to misunderstandings.Mondstadt had just experienced the devastation of the Abyss Order, and the active Anemo Archon was likely on edge. He didn't want any misunderstanding to lead him to attack him...At the bar not far away, someone was drinking heartily, intently."Tun tun tunburp"Venti burped contentedly, then raised his empty glass and asked Charles for another with a smile....Naturally, neither of the two people in the conversation had time to pay attention to an ordinary alcoholic poet. Lumine crossed her fingers again, gazing at Dainsleif with interest."Oh, the Abyss Order is plotting something again? Do you know what they're up to?""I've traced their plan to find the core of the world's first Field Tiller and use it as a core to create a powerful, polluting mechanical demon.""Field Tiller?""Go ask the Anemo Archon yourself later. I'll only say what I need to say. I have no intention of doing anything to Mondstadt. I'm simply acting against the Abyss Order. If you're worried, I won't enter the city again after today, and I'll leave Mondstadt once I've done what I need to."Dainsleif believed he had shown the utmost respect to the master of Mondstadt.Lumine blinked thoughtfully, turned her head, and whispered to the air beside her."Venti, are you listening?""Ouch!"No response came from Venti on the wind. Instead, the scream of a drunken poet banging his head against the counter was heard nearby. Then, Venti came over drunkenly, rubbing his red nose."She said it's up to you two. If the Abyss attacks, she'll do the same. Besides, as long as it doesn't harm Mondstadt, it's fine... That's all I've said. Can I continue drinking? Okay, okay, thank you!"Venti spoke ingratiatingly, as if addressing someone in the air, then walked back to continue drinking."..." ×3The two people and the mascot stared at each other for a long, speechless moment.After a moment, Dainsleif preached. "I never thought a new god would emerge in Mondstadt at this time. The god's secrets are truly baffling.""Don't worry about him. He's just an alcoholic, just delivering a message from the Anemo Archon. It seems the Anemo Archon has approved your actions in Mondstadt. But I'm following you, and I won't allow anyone to destroy Mondstadt!"Lumine slammed the table and said firmly.The bounty on Aether had been successfully posted, and the road to making money had just begun. Even without considering all that, this was still the home of Angel, Venti, Jean, and the others. For everyone's smiles, Lumine felt compelled to do something."Oh? You want to protect this kingdom?""Yes, I have friends here!""That's a good answer. You're indeed very similar to him. I agree. We can act together."Dainsleif, partly out of nostalgia for his old friend and partly out of compromise with the Anemo Archon who had already come to visit, nodded in agreement to Lumine's request.Lumine tilted her head in confusion."Him?"Dainsleif didn't answer.Lumine didn't ask any more questions. She'd been searching all day, and now she just wanted to eat something.Soon after, the two agreed on a time to meet up the next day and then left.Venti, however, continued to chug away.[Sooner or later, You'll drink to death.]'I'm a god after all. I can't drink to death. So you're really so confident you're leaving everything to Lumine?'[What else? He hasn't done anything bad, so I won't attack him just because he's from Khaenri'ah. But I'll still keep an eye on them.]'Then I'll leave everything to you, respected current Anemo Archon, hehe~~'Then a strong wind came from behind, knocking Venti's head against the bar again."Bang!"Charles paused in wiping his glass."You'd better stop here today. You've already hit your head twice. If you drink any more, I'm afraid you'll fall into the wine lake and drown.""Huh? No! I'm fine. I'm not drunk. I can still drink!""I said no, and it's no. The Angel's Share may be a tavern, but we have business ethics. We won't sell alcohol to customers who are unfit to continue drinking.""I'm really fine! Trust me!"The former Anemo Archon prostrated himself before the majesty of Mondstadt's god of alcohol, sobbing and pleading....At the same time, at the Goethe Hotel. The glamorous witch in a black and white dress crossed her legs, her fingertips toying with the ever-shifting ice crystals. Two Fatui intelligence officers knelt before her."Ha! As expected, the Khaenri'ahns. I never thought there were still remnants of them surviving after the disaster!"Rosalyne snorted coldly, her murderous aura instantly freezing the floor and walls.The witch's burning rage stemmed from the dark calamity that had struck five hundred years prior, and that calamity had been caused by Khaenri'ah. It was impossible for her to have a good attitude towards the Khaenri'ahns."Madam, the latest intelligence is that the Traveler has come into contact with the Khaenri'ahns. The Traveler is very close to the Knights, so we suspect this may be an arrangement by Mondstadt officials, and they are also investigating this Khaenri'ahn. Please direct our next steps.""Keep a close eye on them. Those two idiots, the Doctor and the Balladeer, messed things up in Inazuma, putting us in an extremely passive position. Even the Tsaritsa personally wrote to me, asking me to restrain my actions. We can't have any unpleasantness with the Knights right now, and we can't use them to force Barbatos to reveal himself. But the Khaenri'ahns are closely connected to the Abyss, so Barbatos must be watching him, and perhaps we can reach our target through him.""Madam, you are wise. Uh, and besides, it shouldn't be Barbatos..."The intelligence officer shuddered at Rosalyne's death stare and the chill surrounding him, and stopped talking.He felt like slapping himself in the face. Barbatos is Barbatos, what's the point of correcting him?She heard there's even controversy within the Church of Favonius right now. Some say a low-profile nun named Rosaly calls them "Bartobas" when she prays. So, Lady, there must be a reason for calling them that."Go away. Let me know when he leaves the city. Also, have you dealt with the matter with the old Mond nobles?""Yes, we've erased all traces of our dealings. While we didn't harm anyone out of respect for the Anemo Archon, Lawrence himself is unwelcome in Mond, so even if he spreads the news, no one would take it seriously. So, there shouldn't be any risk.""That's best. Gods have their own dignity. As long as nothing goes wrong, Barbatos won't use such a small matter to embarrass us. But if the Knights of Favonius find a reason to provoke... at this sensitive moment, you know what will happen to you.""Yes, Lady!"The intelligence officer retreated tremblingly.In the frozen room, Rosalyne was the only one left.A black crown mask obscured the upper half of her face, while moonlight shone on the other side, a face as white as jade, cold yet picturesque."Crack!"Rosalyne crushed the ice in her hand, a cold murderous intent flashing in her purplish-gray eyes."Barbatos, you'd better be sensible and not make me..."If I forcibly seize the Gnosis, I'll probably die, right?But it didn't matter anymore. The Tsaritsa's lofty ideals that overturned Celestia, and the rage that constantly erupted within her witch's body, seeking to consume both the gods and the Abyss, determined Rosalyne not to retreat.The first Gnosis must be obtained, and the Cryo Archon and the Fatui's five-hundred-year plan must proceed.To achieve this, Rosalyne was mentally prepared to pay any price.----Chapter 222: I'm Boss Angelgel's Dog"The explosives and ammunition are in good supply, the muskets are repaired, the power booster is working, the elemental force system is fully operational... Yeah, and here are the emergency supplies, including emergency medicine, food, and drinking water. Take them with you.""Uh, aren't you a little over-prepared?""What do you know? Anything can happen on an adventurer's journey. Bennett could even be blown away by his own bomb. Safety first, don't get into trouble. Good luck!"Before leaving, Angel gave Lumine and Paimon earnest instructions, her expression serious.Lumine slung the small bags around her body and reached out to pinch Angel's cheek. "Okay, okay, we'll protect ourselves. Don't forget, I'm a legendary Traveler who's fought the wind dragon Tevarin. I'm very strong!""Hmph! I just don't want to lose a capable employee and research material. Don't get me wrong!""Hoo, even tsundere Angel is the cutest person in the world~~""I told you to address me by my title. Call me President Angel!"Angel put her hands on her hips, her cheeks puffed out in dissatisfaction.But a moment later, she opened her arms again, hugged Lumine, and nuzzled her chest."You'd better go home early."Lumine saw Angel in her arms raise her head, her big, wet eyes blinking, and she spoke in a soft, gentle voice. Like a fragile little animal relying on her, she gently licked her cheek."Sizzle!"Instantly, a current coursed through her limbs, and Lumine felt a tingling sensation all over. Then came the feeling of being fully fueled, ready to go full throttle, slaying anyone who stood in her way, and then go home early for dinner."Wait until I get back for dinner!"Lumine patted her chest vigorously.Angel raised her pinky finger, eagerly saying:"Well, promise?""Promise!""Also, don't blow up the ruins anymore. Of course, if it's to protect yourself, you can, but I'll protect you when you get back.""I knew Angel was the best!"Lumine rubbed Angel's face with both hands, then turned and headed for the door with high morale....In the Wolvendom territory, Dainsleif met Lumine and Paimon, who had arrived as scheduled.Lumine, unlike the confident and relaxed look of last night, now had a burning gaze, and exuded a powerful, iron-blooded, fearless aura. Even the harmless Paimon was wearing a miniature military-style windshield and clutching a bulging small cloth bag, looking unusually menacing.Dainsleif was bewildered."What happened, you two?""Shut up! I don't need to know who or how many enemies there are right now. Just tell me the time and the place!""That's right!"The Travelers put their hands on their hips in unison, looking incredibly arrogant.After all, Angel had said that before leaving.Would it be unfair to delay and miss dinner? Even Paimon felt completely full of power."I don't know what's going on, but it's a good thing you're acting this way. So, please go find Andrius, the Wolf King of the North Wind...""What? Go after Andrius? Are you crazy?"Lumine's anger was instantly extinguished.Paimon did the same, taking off her windshield and glaring at Dainsleif with a lunatic expression.Putting aside the question of whether their thin arms and legs could defeat the demon, the key point was that he was a follower of the Anemo Archon.If they attacked him, would Angel's reputation drop? And how would they explain this to Venti?Dainsleif fell silent, his hand pressing against his eye mask. He said,"...What I mean is, I've already thoroughly investigated the territory of the Wolvendom and have found all the clues I could find. Right now, only the Wolf King might know some information we don't yet have.""Oh, so that's what you mean. Why didn't you say so earlier?"Lumine glared at him angrily, then rummaged through her bag, soon pulling out a crystal flower. Dainsleif asked."What is this?""It's a token from Angel. She's familiar with Andrius. Take this, and Andrius will show some respect.""So, it's the genius alchemist who persuaded the Wolf King. It seems you're quite popular in Mondstadt, even having a connection with her.""Of course! I'm Boss Angel's dog... ahem, I mean, my best friend and subordinate!"Dainsleif ignored the slip of the tongue.Perhaps it wasn't a slip of the tongue, but to avoid awkwardness, he'd just ignore it....Lumine and Paimon excitedly ran into the Wolf King Altar."Wow! So new! Not what I imagined."Paimon flew around in the air, but couldn't detect any trace of the ancient texture.The snow-white floor and stone walls were carved with rough yet harmonious relief patterns. While majestic and imposing, it was truly too new. The floor was spotless and white, as if it had just been laid. It had actually been laid out for quite some time.However, Andrius, mindful of the potential for visitors, secretly cleaned it through the air every night when no one was around to ensure it remained dust-free, thus maintaining its pristine appearance.Lumine also observed with curiosity."Ouch!"Suddenly, a cold wind blew, and the air around them felt frozen.The chill was bone-chilling, and a heavy pressure crushed them, momentarily leaving Lumine and Paimon unable to move or breathe.Andrius approached the two and sniffed."Smell of that brat? What? You're her messengers? You didn't come to me in person? That's disrespectful to the Wolf King!""...Are you missing her?""Hmph! Don't try to guess the Wolf King's thoughts with your mortal ignorance!""I understand, I understand. Who in this world wouldn't dislike Angel? Even if there were, they'd just be pretending."Lumine was, after all, a well-traveled Traveler from another world. After a brief pause, she casually reached out and patted the wolf's head, a friendly expression of complete understanding and fellow-feeling.The massive, majestic wolf lowered its head, staring at the two tiny creatures at its feet with cold, terrifying eyes. After a moment, it crouched down, dispelling the chill, its tail swishing intermittently."What trouble is that brat trying to cause me?""Oh, it's not Angel this time. I have something to ask you.""Hmm?""That is..."Considering that this was a subordinate of the Anemo Archon Venti and a friend of Angel, and that Dainsleif hadn't mentioned any need for confidentiality, Lumine recounted the entire story.Andrius had a similar attitude. Hearing it was the Anemo Archon's commission and the person who could receive Angel's token, his initial reluctance gradually changed, his wolf eyes gleaming with thought and reminiscence.--Chapter 223: Is the Gnosis Important?After a moment of careful consideration, Andrius slowly spoke."I don't recognize the Tiller you mentioned, but based on your characteristics, I do recall a strange object. I initially thought it was a long-lost challenger, so I was impressed by its tenacity..."In fact, the reason for the impression was that the mecha's missiles had severely damaged the altar, being the primary culprit for its destruction.However, the Wolf King would never admit that he cared about the altar. Andrius pointed his paw into the distance and spoke in a low, slightly lazy voice:"If I'm not mistaken, that should be what you're looking for. He last left the Wolf Territory in that direction. I don't know the details. Judging by that direction, you can go to Dvalin's territory and give him my regards.""Oh, okay. Thank you, Andrius.""Yes, yes. I didn't expect you to look so intimidating, but you're just as easy to talk to as Angel said! By the way, this is for you. Bye~~"Before leaving, Paimon placed the bag of wolfhook biscuits he had stolen from the wolf during their meeting with Amber two days ago in front of Andrius.Andrius watched the two leave, speechless."When did I become easy to talk to? And I'm not just any wolf. What's the point of leaving a bag of wolf food?"Do you look down on the Wolf King?"Crack! Crack!"Hmm, quite fragrant. Looks like the taste has improved.Andrius chewed on a bone biscuit, seemingly lazily sprawled, but his gaze traveled across the forest to another corner of the Wolf Territory.'The Witch of Fire... When I met her, she had already burned everything she had to ash, leaving only a rage that was about to be extinguished. So, was she taken away by the Cryo Archon? Poor witch, Barbatos will indulge you, but Beyanna isn't that kind of person. And how could a self-proclaimed God of Struggle be easily provoked? I hope you'll be on your own.'Andrius sighed inwardly.Humans are like this. Though humble and short-lived, they always produce remarkable individuals that even the Gods can't forget...."Hmm?""[Madam]?"The accompanying Fatui saw Rosalyne suddenly glance toward the altar and hesitated for a moment, wondering if an enemy was about to arrive. Rosalyne ignored the merely decorative Fatui around her and narrowed her eyes slightly toward the altar."Do you see me? A god is still a god, even if incomplete. They are not to be underestimated."The sudden chill that made her hair stand on end was no illusion. It was a terrifying force, powerful enough to extinguish her flames. It was undoubtedly the gaze of Andrius, the Wolf King.However, Rosalyne had no intention of confronting Andrius, so it wasn't a big deal."Tell the outposts to continue tracking. Don't interfere or get caught. But I'll follow them wherever they go. If you fail, none of you will have to return.""Yes!"The Fatui around her shuddered. The Fatui organization was strictly hierarchical, and the Harbinger’s word was law. Failure to complete the task could lead to immediate execution, a possibility entirely.They didn't dare slack off and gave 200% effort to guide Rosalyne.... "Crunch! Crunch!""Give me some.""It's the last one, try it.""Mmm~ Pretty delicious."At the altar, Wendy lay on Andrius's soft, cool fur, chewing a biscuit and mentally praising her own cooking.Andrius turned his head, a glint of pride in his large wolf eyes."Right, it's really delicious! You're quite knowledgeable, Beyanna!""I heard that because it's so delicious, many wolf riders are now stealing their comrades' rations while on patrol. Even with regulations, we can't completely stop it.""Hmph! Foolish human... Next time, I'll warn that brat to keep plenty of rations. If the wolf cubs get hungry, I won't let her off.""Hahaha!"Wendy laughed heartily, rolling back and forth on the soft wolf's belly.A gentle breeze blew through the forest, and even the giant wolf couldn't help but subdue his anger, a rare gentleness permeating his aura. After Wendy finished laughing, she rested her chin on her hand, propping her head up to meet Andrius's gaze.She spoke, "This witch is after the Gnosis.""Hmm? Are you sure?""I heard this after secretly observing for a long time. So I'm wondering if Barbatos has some secret deal with the Cryo Archon. After all, others may not understand the significance of the Gnosis, but as a fellow god, how could the Cryo Archon not know? If there's no tacit understanding, then sending a Harbinger to seize the Gnosis is a joke. But Barbatos keeps evading the subject. Seriously, is he deliberately trying to embarrass me?""It's hard to say. I have no right to interfere in matters concerning the Gnosis, but you know Barbatos's character. Maybe he's planning to trick you. I suggest you bring some muddy, rotten fruit, or something to smear on his face, and then confront him face to face... Although, he still won't say anything he doesn't want to say."Andrius encouraged her nonchalantly, but he couldn't help but ponder.Wendy didn't care. Lying on the wolf's belly, she gazed up at the sky and said slowly, "Andrius, you have the most experience of us, and you're even a bit older than Barbatos.""You could say that.""Do you think the Gnosis is important?""During the Archon War, it was incredibly important. It crowned the victor and sounded the bell that declared the end of war in this kingdom, a token of peace. But now, if you don't care about the recognition of Celestia, it's just a delicate little chess piece. With it or without it, the Anemo Archon is still the Anemo Archon. As for what you'll need after losing the Gnosis, just let Barbatos teach you."Andrius clearly knew more about the Gnosis and had no fondness for it.Come to think of it, being forced by Celestia to fight like crickets in a vast arena, fighting to the death, only to be rewarded with a worthless chess piece.As a God, it's strange for him to have any affection for such object.Back then, he voluntarily gave up his throne and handed the victorious seat to Barbatos. Besides his lack of faith in caring for humanity, his resistance to Celestia must have played a part."Andrius, is that what you think?"Wendy murmured, as if she were hesitant, debating whether to defend her inheritance or respect Barbatos's choice.... "Does he truly despise the Gnosis, or has he sensed Barbatos's intentions and is speaking up for that idiot, indirectly trying to persuade me to be more open-minded? Never mind, there's no need to dwell on that. What matters is—is the Gnosis important to us?"Across the sea, at Inazuma Castle, Kaguya glanced in the direction of Mt. Yougou. Knowing that there lay a Gnosis ready for her to play with, she tilted her head in confusion.[Huh? What are you talking about?][Indeed, what are you talking about?]Mond Angel peeled open the subspace, counting the dozen or so blank Gnoses stored there as backup copies, blinking in confusion.'That's all right.'---Chapter 224: Andrius, I'll Bring You a Message.Revisiting their old haunts, Lumine and Paimon charged into the Stormterror’s Lair for the second time."Swish! Swish! Swish!""Boom!"Sparks and whirlwinds swirled along the way.It hadn't been long since their last foray, but Lumine's elemental power had reached new heights. During this time, Angel had also improved her equipment and firepower alongside Lumine's progress.Additionally, Paimon was unusually proactive.So, when Dainsleif reached the depths of Stormterror’s Lair, he looked back, only to see the smoke of gunpowder filling the air. His eyes twitched uncontrollably as he asked, "Do you have a grudge against the monsters here?""Not really, but this place is sparsely populated and perpetually enveloped by a faint dragon aura, so it cultivates many higher-quality materials than other places. Paimon, bring some back so Angel can continue upgrading our equipment.""No problem, Lumine!"After the fight, they quickly collected their belongings and materials. They even dug out the supply boxes hidden in the corners of the hilichurls' houses and plundered them clean like licking a plate. Their smooth, one-shot work showed the strength of their practice.Dainsleif wanted to intervene, reminding them they had more important matters to attend to. But seeing their enthusiastic atmosphere, he felt that if he intervened, those earlier musket bombs might be aimed at him.Dainsleif finally fell silent. While they searched, he searched the area for any signs of the mecha. "It's heading this way."After a long pause, he squatted before a strange mark and reached out to touch the ground.Lumine and Paimon finally came over."Dain, what are you looking at? Have you found any clues?""The sharp, square shape, the straight, square lines, and the size, almost human-sized, make this a deadly footprint. It's undoubtedly from a Ruin Guard. But I'm not sure if it's the First Tiller we're looking for. And... the bridge is broken."Dainsleif looked up at the abrupt end ahead and sighed helplessly.Stormterror’s Lair was once an ancient city-state, with palaces and bridge ruins.The mark Dainsleif had found was at the edge of a collapsed bridge. There was nothing in front of it, making it impossible to determine the mecha's exact location.Lumine then looked up at the sun, which had already risen to mid-heaven. "But Stormterror’s Lair is massive. If we don't know where to go, we might not even find them in an afternoon, let alone two months. I'm not going to do that!""That's right, we still have to get home for dinner! You don't understand. After risky adventures like these, Angel always treats us to a super luxurious and delicious meal. So we absolutely have to be back tonight.""...Am I the only one who thinks stopping the Abyss Order's plot is so important?"Dainsleif's face was blank. He was used to exploring deserted corners like this, spending years, even decades, exploring them.Under the curse of Celestia, the Khaenri'ah people were virtually incapable of death, and their concept of time passed without a trace. Therefore, he didn't find searching the entire Stormterror’s Lair difficult to accept."Anyway, this is the situation. If you don't want to come with me, you can leave. I'll find it on my own.""That's not the way to say it. Although we're not from Mondstadt, we've received so much care from Angel, Jean, Amber, Venti, and the others. We certainly can't just stand by and watch the Abyss Order's plot.""Then what can you do?""Dain, you're a newcomer, so you're confused. Stormterror’s Lair has a resident. We don't know. Why don't we just ask the owner?"Lumine shook her index finger triumphantly, her eyes gleaming with wisdom and pride.Paimon also clapped enthusiastically."Dvalin! Andrius, I have a message for you!"Standing beneath the towering tower in the center of the ruins, Lumine held up Angel's "Sweet Speaker," amplifying her voice loud enough to echo throughout the entire structure. Paimon floated nearby, clutching her ears tightly.Even Dainsleif couldn't help but frown at the sudden roar."Dvalin! Andrius...""Whoosh!"She was only halfway through her second repetition when a sudden, violent gust of wind swept through the ruins, whipping the hems of the three people's clothing violently.Frightened, Paimon quickly grabbed Lumine's hair to prevent herself from being blown away."Pain!!!!""Ouch!"Lumine's cry of pain and the clear, resonant dragon roar echoed almost simultaneously.In an instant, a massive shadow enveloped the earth. A giant dragon, gently flapping its graceful wings, hovered in the air, its head lowered to the ground."Is that you? It's been a while since we last saw you. You look a lot stronger. And are these... the Khaenri'ahns!?"The dragon's eyes widened, and the wind and waves around it grew violent.Dainsleif sighed inwardly. Five hundred years ago, the Seven Nations suffered a devastating blow, paying a heavy price. Mortals, over generations, have forgotten much of it. But beings like demons and dragons must still be deeply impressed, and it's understandable that they are wary of the Khaenri'ahns.That's why he didn't appear before the Wolf King. This time, too, he hadn't intended to alarm Dvalin.Lumine calmly stepped forward and soothed him:"Dvalin, calm down. Even Venti didn't do anything to him. Dain isn't a bad person."That shouldn't be the case, right?After all, they hadn't known each other that long, so how could Lumine be sure?But to calm Dvalin, even if she wasn't sure, she had to feign certainty.Dvalin paused, slowly calming the turmoil that threatened to erupt. He hesitated."Even the Anemo Archon? Well, then I have nothing to say. So, what do you want from me? Is there something wrong with Andrius?""Not really. He just asked me to say hello.""...You didn't call me out just for that, did you?"Dvalin's voice was serious, his hovering posture steady, but he felt a sense of helplessness in his heart.After finally dispelling the poisonous blood, the five hundred years of torture vanished. He had been in exceptionally good shape during this period, and his temper had been relatively good. And Lumine was his primary benefactor, so Dvalin could only be helpless.Lumine grinned, then, as if in the Wolf Territory, recounted the entire story to Dvalin.Dvalin listened, nodded, and slowly landed, resting his body and claws on the ruins of various buildings. He touched his chin with a dragon claw in a very humane manner.--Chapter 225: Dig If You Have the Guts"From Andrius's altar to my location there's basically a narrow path running down the middle, flanked by cliffs. So since he saw me heading this way, it's possible he's here... But because of my poisoned blood, I've been either asleep or mentally confused for five hundred years, so I haven't really paid attention to what's been happening in this abandoned city."Dvalin explained his situation frankly.That said, the five hundred years of grudges were still fresh in his mind. If anyone wanted to take on the Abyss Order, Dvalin would definitely lend a hand. He turned his attention to the silent Dainsleif."Khaenri'ahn, what are the characteristics of that Tiller you mentioned?""It's been so long I can't tell its current condition. But as the prototype of all mechas, it must be very old and, at the same time, very powerful.""Old and powerful..." Dvalin's voice slowed considerably, as if he had thought of something.After a moment, Dvalin turned and faced the giant tower where he lived. "Right up this tower there's a dilapidated mech that's been idle for a long time. I don't remember when it appeared, but even now I can sense the immense energy dormant within its body. Could it be what you're looking for?""Besides the question, that thing is sitting at the entrance to your lair, and you're not going to deal with it?""Why should I? It hasn't challenged me." Dvalin said to Lumine matter-of-factly. Enormous energy is only relative; in front of a dragon, that level wouldn't disturb his sleep."Okay, let's go check it out!" Lumine's eyes lit up, and Paimon and Dainsleif beside her perked up.…"That should be it."Dainsleif touched the dormant mech, which resembled a gigantic statue, observing its design and features. He confirmed that many of its elements were very old-fashioned, making it very likely his target.So, building good relations with the locals really paid off. In this case, if it weren't for the guidance of the local demon god and dragon, his search alone would have taken a year or two—or even longer.Dainsleif couldn't help but ponder whether his solitary style had been a good idea."Next, we'll extract its core, and then I'll find a safe place to store it.""That won't do! Khaenri'ahn, it's one thing if we don't know, but since we already know this is part of the Abyss Order's conspiracy, it should naturally be entrusted to us and the gods for safekeeping."Dainsleif's worst fears had arrived.It's understandable that the Seven Archons and their followers didn't trust the Khaenri'ahns. But how could Dainsleif trust the Seven?The Seven were powerful, but they didn't understand the Abyss or the Abyss Order, which made them vulnerable. He, on the other hand, understood his alienated compatriots better and knew how to avoid the Abyss Order's gaze."Dragon of the East, don't you think secrets are safer when kept by one person than by a group?""We can also choose a reliable deity and have them act as sole custodian. Listen, I'm being polite to you because you came with the Traveler, but that doesn't mean I need to take the advice of a Khaenri'ahn. Extract its core and give it to me. If you want credit for it, you can go to the Knights and ask them to reward you on behalf of Mondstadt. As for the rest, that's none of your business."Dvalin's thoughts were clear.The harm done by the Khaenri'ahns hadn't ended yet. There was no reason to trust a stranger from Khaenri'ah. Key items related to the Abyssal conspiracy must remain in the hands of our own people.'But Barbatos' time is short. Who knows when he'll succumb to erosion. Andrius is incomplete, lacks strength, and is unstable. It seems I can only discuss this with Wendy. At worst, I can contact old Geo next door. I believe he'll have a suitable solution.'Dvalin nodded inwardly, his next move clearly defined.Dainsleif looked up at Dvalin, who, with only half his head poking through the ruined tower, occupied most of the space. He couldn't help but frown, momentarily at a loss as to what to do.Fighting was definitely out of the question.How could a human defeat a dragon?Besides, Dvalin wasn't a lonely old dragon. He had the support of the God Andrius and the Anemo Archon. The Anemo Archon even had ties with groups in neighboring Liyue. No matter how you looked at it, it was impossible for Dainsleif to make an enemy of him.But from another perspective, convincing a dragon poisoned by the power of the Abyss for five hundred years would probably be just as difficult as defeating him outright."I just hope you understand, friend. The Abyss Order's tactics are unpredictable. You can defeat them head-on, but you'd never guess how many covert methods they possess…""Alright, take out the core, and stop talking."Lumine and Paimon looked alternately at Dainsleif, then at Dvalin, bewildered.In the gradually tense atmosphere, Lumine suddenly raised her hand and asked. "So, why not just destroy it? Dvalin should be able to do it, right?""Yes, yes—wouldn't it be fine if we just destroyed it?" Paimon nodded vigorously.Dainsleif was silent for a moment, about to speak.Dvalin, having thought things through, opened his maw, and a violent, terrifying burst of wind elemental energy gathered into shape."Swoosh!"In a flash, a massive jet of concentrated energy blasted from the side, striking Dvalin's head.At that critical moment, Dvalin's eyes didn't show panic; instead, a flash of understanding crossed them. Then he calmly opened his mouth and blasted the concentrated energy back out."I knew you bugs would follow!""BOOM!!!"A hurricane roared, and dark forces lashed the surroundings furiously. Under the onslaught of energy, the massive tower collapsed without a moment to spare.Lumine, carrying Paimon, soared high into the sky using Angel's thrusters.Dainsleif, relying on his agility and immortality, dashed away.The three who escaped sensed a terrifying and ominous energy lingering in the swirling dust.Suddenly a strong gust swept away the debris.When their vision cleared, Dvalin stood firmly atop the pile of rubble. His massive body dominated everything, and every feather on him emitted a rich, clear elemental energy."Hmph! What you seek is beneath me. Come out and dig it out if you dare!"Dvalin glanced around with a cold, disdainful gaze. His massive dragon form had become a formidable barrier against all intruders.In the dark space just a hair's breadth away, the gathered Apostles of the Abyss fell into a deathly silence."I didn't expect it would end up like this. The core components were taken by Mondstadt first.""If the previous plan had succeeded, this dragon would be fighting for us now!""Enough with the meaningless hypotheses. The plan to assimilate the dragon and the god has failed, so the mechanical demon-god plan must not be abandoned. Otherwise, we'll have nothing.""Is it possible to use the power of the Abyss to erode and contain the wind dragon, as Andrius did?""That's impossible. Do you think he's a formless, incomplete god? This is a dragon in its prime. Each of his feathers is packed with enough energy to withstand any attack. Even if we drown him in Abyssal energy, it won't affect his mind… Be prepared. We have no way to deal with the complete dragon. We can only risk our lives to buy time."