As they chatted, the Jade Chamber and accompanying warships neared Liyue Harbor.
The thunderous cheers from the harbor were already clearly audible.
No matter how humble or stoic one tried to be—having repelled a god's invasion entirely through human strength...
There was no denying the pride that came with that.
This sense of achievement and mission made everyone involved feel incredibly satisfied. Even Ningguang couldn't help but smile again and again.
However, Zhongli and Lumine had stood up.
"This is your moment of heroism," Zhongli said, "so I won't intrude any further. The Rite of Parting should begin tomorrow afternoon. Lumine and I still have a few final preparations to make."
Ningguang paused, looking suspicious. "So soon?"
Zhongli didn't answer, but Ryen chuckled and teased: "Cut him some slack! He's been doing this job for 3,700 years—plus the 2,000 years before that. No matter how diligent you are, that's exhausting." "An early retirement means early peace of mind!"
Zhongli cast Ryen an approving glance. "From a rational standpoint, that is indeed true. However, this is your time."
"This whole event started because of me, and yet I didn't lend a hand. It wouldn't be right for me to share in your glory."
"I'll take my leave. Be ready for the Rite of Parting tomorrow—I'll meet you at the Jade Chamber for the handover."
With that, Zhongli quickly left with Lumine.
Now that Liyue had already handled the threat of a god's invasion, he could no longer delay. Every day he postponed, the title of Geo Archon felt heavier.
Zhongli wanted to retire so badly.
The Adepti, hearing his words, also looked a little awkward. Never mind Zhongli—from beginning to end, not a single one of the immortals had taken action.
What's more, according to the original plan, they were supposed to test Liyue as well. Now going back to share in the applause just felt… dishonest.
Moon Carver immediately prepared to excuse himself.
But Ningguang didn't give them the chance.
Smiling, she said:
"There's no need for the True Lords to take it to heart. Though the god is dead, the principle of human rule is still one where humans and Adepti stand side by side."
"The presence of the Adepti is a vital foundation for our future. While humans will govern Liyue, the Adepti will serve as the supervisors appointed by the former Archon."
"Moreover, during this battle, having the Adepti present gave great courage to those fighting for Liyue."
"You all deserve to enjoy Liyue's warmth and gratitude."
It had to be said—those words felt genuinely comforting.
Moon Carver instinctively glanced at Cloud Retainer.
If only she spoke as graciously as Ningguang did… maybe Ganyu and the others wouldn't go out of their way to avoid her.
"Little Ningguang still speaks as pleasantly as ever," Madam Ping chuckled warmly, casting a fond look at Ningguang. She then added gently, "Since that's the case, we'd actually like to see what's next for Liyue. This is a turning point after thousands of years—we wouldn't want to miss it."
Ningguang covered her mouth and chuckled softly, then turned her gaze to Beidou and the two beside her, who had been silent for a long time.
"Beidou, I know you have many questions you'd like answered. But right now isn't the right time."
"Though the god is dead, there's still much work to be done. Once we return to Liyue Harbor, head back first."
"After you've had some time to rest, I'll come find you—after the Rite of Parting."
Beside her, Ayaka opened her mouth slightly as if to speak—but quickly lowered her head in confusion and said nothing.
After spending time aboard the Jade Chamber, she had almost forgotten her original purpose.
Ask Liyue to support the Inazuman resistance?
With strength like this, Liyue could probably invade Narukami Island and confront the Raiden Shogun head-on.
Ask for supplies and trade resources?
At this scale and tier of material technology…
Could Inazuma even afford it?
Alchemical potions, enchantments, modern firearms, redstone technology, dragons...
Broken down like that, it seemed they could only afford the potions.
As for the rest—Liyue likely wouldn't even be willing to sell them.
If she could, what Ayaka truly wished for was support with the beacons.
If a signal beacon were deployed, the resistance would absolutely be guaranteed a decisive victory.
But again—why would Liyue sell that?
This wasn't something Mora could buy. It concerned national security. It would require the Raiden Shogun herself to come forward for negotiations.
Ayaka… couldn't bring herself to ask anymore.
Beidou glanced at Ayaka's disheartened expression and sighed. "I understand. I'll come find you after the Rite of Parting."
Ningguang nodded, saying nothing more.
She knew very well why Ayaka had come. But as she had said before—
Inazuma's current state was regrettable, but…
What did that have to do with Liyue?
Every nation must tend to its own affairs first.
Unless the Geo Archon or Ryen personally spoke up, or the Raiden Shogun herself came to sign a life-and-death alliance treaty,
Liyue had no reason to intervene.
Such things… weren't worth considering.
The only thing that mattered now—
Was Liyue!
Overwhelming momentum. A triumphant return. Not a single casualty.
~~----------------------
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