"Snniff... Sniff-sniff..."
Just after Fu Hua and Zhongli departed from the Antique Treasure Shop, a charming young girl arrived at its entrance. Dressed in a vibrant white qipao adorned with flame-like patterns, she wrinkled her delicate ivory nose, delicately sniffing the air. Her scarlet eyes suddenly lit up, causing her softly flowing long hair, streaked with fiery red tips amidst snow-white strands, to flutter slightly.
"I found them—it's Old Antique's scent; she was here just now. The direction they took, let me see... It's that way!"
"Whoosh!"
This exceptionally charming young girl, carrying a massive black sword case on her back, darted through the streets like a gust of wind. Despite her swift speed, maneuvering around the dense crowd, she maintained perfect balance, ensuring no jostling disturbed her shoulders.
The reason for this meticulous steadiness was evident: perched atop her slender shoulder sat a delicate, doll-like book spirit.
"Mm, Liyue's tea is indeed quite exceptional—a fine brew indeed~"
The Book of Fuxi sat cross-legged on Senti's stable shoulders, holding a tiny teacup with both hands to savor its aroma, eyes contentedly squinted as if nestled in a tranquil room.
The only regret was that while the spatial device preserved the ideal temperature and fragrance of freshly brewed tea, it lacked a certain indefinable essence compared to tea steeped directly from a teapot.
"Little Fuxi, Little Fuxi, with that gun just now, my arsenal is complete! Let's inform Old Antique and set off!"
"Well, first you need to find her."
"Wahoo! Ha ha ha!" Senti burst out laughing joyously, disappearing instantly at the end of the street, too fast for any passerby to catch sight.
In the end, Zhongli did not accept the title of "Little Brother."
Although he was wandering amidst mortal affairs, the Geo Archon differed from his neighbor, the Anemo Archon. Zhongli still upheld certain principles.
With Fu Hua's appearance akin to an ordinary human, her consciousness and spiritual energy perfectly concealed, Zhongli sensed only an ethereal aura around her—nothing that hinted at divine or supernatural origins. He believed the title "Little Brother" should not be taken lightly; accepting it carelessly would show disrespect towards the lady before him.
In any case, as noon approached, Zhongli led Fu Hua to Wanmin Restaurant.
"When Xiangling is on duty, this is where you should dine instead of New Moon Pavilion or Rutilated Pavilion."
"I see, thank you for the advice," Fu Hua responded, nodding appreciatively while seated across from Zhongli, who calmly shared his dining insights.
"Whoosh!"
Suddenly, a gust of wind struck Fu Hua's back. Though devoid of impact, the turbulent breeze tousled her hair strands, indicating the incredible speed of the newcomer's approach.
"Old Antique, I found you! Hey, who's this guy? Seems kinda special!" Senti clung to Fu Hua's back, peering over her shoulder with pristine crimson eyes fixed on Zhongli, her delicate brows slightly furrowed.
Despite his leisurely demeanor, Zhongli remained the Emperor—and neither Fu Hua's nor Senti's senses could be deceived by his restrained nature.
To Senti, Zhongli appeared as a colossal beacon distinctly different from all other passersby.
In turn, upon witnessing Senti's sudden appearance and sensing her essence emanating from both her physical form and luminous eyes, Zhongli was rendered momentarily speechless—What manner of entity is this? An ancient Demon God awakened anew? Or perhaps an unknown eighth Ephemeral Governor descended by Heavenly Truth?
"Crack!"
Caught off guard, Zhongli inadvertently crushed the teacup in his hand.
Unfazed by their astonishment, Fu Hua turned with a gentle smile, lightly tapping Senti on the forehead. Her voice flowed like water as she said, "Oh you, acting mischievous like a playful monkey all day, finally deciding to seek me out? Mr. Zhongli, allow me to introduce my younger sister, Senti. She has... well, quite a carefree and innocent nature; please overlook any impoliteness."
"...No harm done." Zhongli effortlessly repaired the teacup using Geo elemental power, seamlessly continuing to sip tea without missing a beat.
Regardless of Senti's origins, this sudden appearance of such an intriguing being seemed quite docile.
At least, there was no sign of discontent from Senti at Fu Hua's elder-like admonishment. Instead, she playfully stuck out her pink tongue before nuzzling affectionately against Fu Hua's face with evident delight.
Zhongli decided to observe first. After all, regardless of the situation, these two wouldn't engage in combat within Liyue Harbor; otherwise, this ancient city spanning millennia could easily be reduced to ashes in an instant.
Fu Hua allowed Senti to indulge in their close embrace, letting her express attachment and fondness. After some time, she gently took the Book of Fuxi from Senti's shoulder and lightly tapped the girl on the head, saying softly:
"Go sit down over there. We're outside, so behave properly."
"Yes~," Senti replied breezily, taking a seat nearby. However, her sparkling eyes remained fixed on Fu Hua—Zhongli? Who's that? She had absolutely no interest; gazing more at the Old Antique felt far more appealing!
Feeling somewhat overlooked, Zhongli rubbed his nose as if sensing a stroke of fortune eluding him.
With the Book of Fuxi held carefully, Fu Hua turned towards Zhongli and smiled warmly:
"The book I'm holding is the Book of Fuxi, our family member. And over there is Mr. Zhongli, who has extensive knowledge of Liyue's customs and traditions. I'm consulting him about Liyue Harbor so that, in the future, I can guide you all on tours around Liyue. Plus, it will help us prepare for welcoming my husband when he arrives."
Fu Hua succinctly explained the situation.
Senti continued to gaze at Fu Hua with sparkling eyes, while the Book of Fuxi floated up from Fu Hua's hand, performing a courteous bow mid-air. In a polite tone, it said:
"Many thanks for your care towards...my family's Fu Hua. The Qi Clan Trading Company surely appreciates this greatly."
The Book of Fuxi smiled warmly, almost instinctively wanting to say "our Elder Immortal," but refrained. Considering the unique significance of the term "immortal" in Liyue, it was best not to use such expressions publicly to maintain harmony.
"You're welcome. As for compensation, Ms. Fu Hua has already made her commitment; no need to mention it further," Zhongli replied, nodding composedly.
As for the peculiar little entity known as the Book of Fuxi... Emperor Zhongli, well-versed in diverse experiences, remained unfazed by its presence.
After introductions were exchanged, the blue-haired, brown-eyed young girl returned with a radiant smile, carrying steaming dishes.
"Mr. Zhongli, today we have fresh Clearspring Pork from the forest. I've specially prepared a new dish just for you! It's complimentary, so don't forget to give me feedback after enjoying it, okay~~"
"Oh? Xiangling's new dish? Can't wait to try it!" Zhongli raised his eyebrows and shifted his attention to the delicacies on the table—Senti could wait; innovative and novel dishes were currently more deserving of focus.
The group of three adults and one child then enjoyed their lunch harmoniously.
After their satisfying meal, Zhongli led the group to Liyue Harbor, where they basked in the gentle sea breeze.
Facing the vast ocean and its continuous parade of exquisite merchant ships, the four quietly admired the scene for quite some time.
Eventually, Senti's patience ran out. She took the Book of Fuxi from Fu Hua's shoulder onto her own, stood before Fu Hua with hands on hips, leaned forward to prominently display the massive sword case on her back, and declared:
"Old Antique, I've collected all my weapons now. It's time for me to visit Jueyun Karst and assess these immortals' true caliber!"
"...Such an unceasingly energetic nature you have. Well then, do remember our three agreements?" Fu Hua rested her hand on her forehead, smiling helplessly yet affectionately.
The so-called "three agreements" were as follows: First, refraining from using Herrscher abilities or Divine Keys, which clearly exceeded normal power levels. Second, sealing both Honkai Energy and physical strength at the level of Genshin Impact's formidable characters, challenging the immortals purely through martial skills to enhance personal growth. Third, carrying the Book of Fuxi at all times, as without it, this child would struggle to take care of herself given her innate penchant for trouble—how could anyone be at ease otherwise?
Senti eagerly nodded.
"No problem, I've got it all down! So you're letting me go?"
"It's not like I can tie you up. Remember to listen to Little Fuxi, eat regularly, take breaks during your journey, and check in with me daily."
"Aiya, I know already! You're so naggy, Old Antique! Well then, here I go—yay!"
Her cheerful voice lingered on the wind as the girl clad in her Blazing Phoenix Coat vanished at the end of the road, heading out beyond Liyue Harbor.
"That child..."
Fu Hua reached out a hand, intending to smooth Senti's disheveled hair but found herself grasping air instead. With a gentle smile, she shook her head.
Zhongli stroked his chin, suddenly struck by unease.
"Excuse me, is she...going to challenge immortals to battle?"
"Yes, indeed. However, there's no need for concern, Mr. Zhongli. She listens well to my advice and follows Little Fuxi's guidance; she won't act recklessly."
Fu Hua's gentle smile and simple words carried profound implications to Zhongli's ears.
He sighed slightly in relief.
Despite having only briefly crossed paths with Fu Hua and Senti, after spending half a day together, Zhongli trusted Fu Hua wholeheartedly—sometimes, human connections and trust do not require years; a chance encounter can be enough.
With a soft laugh, Fu Hua nodded and said:
"Thank you for understanding, Mr. Zhongli. Please rest assured, we mean no harm; we're merely distant travelers... probably."
At the end, Fu Hua felt somewhat uncertain.
She certainly harbored no ill intent, but as for Zeke and the Empire—whether their pursuit of developing new worlds could be considered malicious was difficult to gauge.
Quickly dismissing her doubts, Fu Hua trusted Zeke's character, knowing he wasn't one to intentionally cause disasters or inflict harm, which was sufficient reassurance.
Thus, she continued: "Then, may I request that you resume showing me around Liyue's sights, Mr. Zhongli?"
"Certainly. Our next stop is Yun Jin's performance."
Bronya was meticulously planning her business ventures. As a competent imperial consort and the emperor's right hand, creating a comfortable environment for His Majesty was part of her duties. She had even dispatched teams from the Qi Clan Trading Company to Mondstadt, aiming to enhance Zeke's living conditions with greater convenience.
Fu Hua diligently studied and immersed herself in Liyue's customs and culture, preparing to guide Zeke through their sights upon his arrival while sharing her insights along the way.
Naturally, as another wife, Kiana too was making her own preparations for their reunion—though her destination was the renowned Wangsheng Funeral Parlor.
"Ah, pretty lady, you've been standing outside our Wangsheng Funeral Parlor for quite some time. Is there something I can assist you with? Let me introduce you: We're currently running a special promotion at Wangsheng Funeral Parlor —buy one memorial stele, get one free! And after purchasing five or more, enjoy unlimited additional steles at no extra cost~~"
A girl emerged nearby, clad in a black round hat and traditional Shenzhou attire. Her captivating plum-blossom eyes gazed warmly at Kiana, but what truly drew attention were her smooth, fair legs exposed gracefully in the open air.
Kiana looked down at the enchanting girl before her, gently touched her hat, and spoke with an incredibly solemn tone:
"To be honest, lately, I've been dreaming that my husband looks at me with the cold gaze reserved for the dead... Well, he often gazes at me like that. So, I figured it's time to pre-order a funeral package for myself. Could you recommend one?"
Her words were chilling, and her somber expression, tear-filled eyes, and tone laced with both despair and resignation suggested she wasn't joking.
"Uh, oh dear..." Hu Tao, as the Hall Master of Wangsheng Funeral Parlor, had grown accustomed to matters of life and death. She thought nothing could unsettle her, no matter how peculiar the business proposition. Yet this encounter left her momentarily speechless.
She even forgot to marvel at the striking similarity between their voices.