Jean and the others weren't idle either.
The Minecraft World project was developing faster than ever, yet Mondstadt was still short on manpower.
Jean had to write urgent letters again, requesting reinforcements to help expand the realm.
As for Ryen...
After settling Ganyu comfortably, he headed to Wangsheng Funeral Parlor for his daily "maturity-accelerating massage session."
The lightning of Inazuma could not reach the mainland,
and the winds of Teyvat never disturbed him.
No matter the turmoil in the world, Ryen always remained at leisure.
The next morning.
Nazuchi Beach.
Both the Shogunate Army and the Resistance had arrived early and assembled there.
But this time, neither side carried any weapons.
At the center of the beach, a massive tent had been set up.
Kokomi and Gorou were already waiting outside.
As for Beidou, her business in Inazuma was nearly done.
That very morning, she had taken her leave to return to Liyue.
She still had something on her mind, the exploration of the New Continent.
A new world, full of mystery and danger,
such things always ignited Beidou's spirit.
Around nine in the morning, under a rare clear sky, a few deep rumbles of thunder echoed abruptly.
Moments later, several dragons soared down from the clouds, diving swiftly and landing beside the tent.
Lumine hopped down nimbly, hands on her hips, taking in the surroundings with satisfaction.
"Now this is more like it! Without the constant thunderstorms, Inazuma looks so much prettier!"
Beside her, Yae Miko blinked playfully, teasing her:
"Oh? Then tell me, which view do you like better, the scenery around my Grand Narukami Shrine, or here at Nazuchi Beach?"
"Hmm… both are nice! I like them all!"
Miko chuckled softly, shaking her head.
"Good thing you're not a boy, Lumine. Otherwise, you'd definitely be one of those charming scoundrels who flirts with everyone."
"Eh? Are you talking about Ryen?"
Lumine grinned mischievously, tossing in a jab.
"He's the real charming scoundrel, you know! Miko, didn't you notice how his eyes sparkle whenever he looks at your ears?"
Miko gave a light huff through her nose.
"Well, I am quite confident in my charm. It's perfectly understandable if Ryen has fallen for me, don't you think?"
"Ahahaha… giving him a chance doesn't sound so bad, honestly! Look at Ganyu, she seems really happy with him!"
Lumine pouted slightly. Miko really knew how to run with a joke.
But still, did that look Ryen gave her really seem romantic?
No way!
That was clearly the look of someone who just spotted an unbelievably adorable, fluffy creature, and wanted desperately to pet it!
After knowing Ryen for so long, Lumine understood him perfectly.
That guy already had a daughter, a flying pet…
the only thing missing from his "ideal cozy life" was one more soft, furry companion.
And this pink-haired fox, Yae Miko,
would fit that missing spot perfectly.
Of course, Lumine didn't warn her.
Because if Ryen did manage to pet Miko…
then maybe she could finally get a chance to pet Miko's tails too.
The thought alone was thrilling.
Makoto's gentle gaze swept across the assembled soldiers of both the Resistance and the Shogunate Army.
With calm composure, she was the first to step toward the great tent.
Kokomi and Gorou immediately bowed deeply.
"General!"
Makoto smiled softly, giving a small nod.
"There's no need for such formality. Let's go inside and talk."
Kokomi blinked in surprise for a moment, then quickly nodded in return.
The Shogun before her… felt entirely different from the one she had imagined.
She had heard countless stories about the Raiden Shogun,
a stern, expressionless god, as cold and distant as lightning itself.
But this woman…
The warmth radiating from her wasn't something that could be faked.
Following behind Makoto, Kokomi entered the tent, while Gorou and Kujou Sara stayed outside to oversee their respective troops.
Inside the spacious command tent, Kokomi's gaze flicked curiously toward Lumine and Ayaka.
Ayaka, of course, was someone she already knew quite well.
As for Lumine, she could only assume this must be the Traveler herself.
Makoto paused, then spoke in a calm, reassuring tone:
"Lumine and Ayaka are here today as neutral parties. They represent no nation, no faction, only as mediators and witnesses to this meeting. You need not worry about that."
Kokomi regained her composure and nodded respectfully.
"Understood, my Lady Shogun."
Makoto's lips pressed together for a moment.
Her eyes drifted toward the shadowed corner of the tent, as if she could still sense the lingering presence of her sister.
She sighed softly.
"The purpose of today's meeting is simple," she began.
"First, to formally announce that both the Vision Hunt Decree and the Sakoku Decree are completely and permanently abolished."
"From this day forward, there will be no more war between the Resistance and the Shogunate."
"All of you are children of Inazuma, this nation should not continue tearing itself apart."
She paused again. Then, in a voice heavy with emotion, she added:
"In addition… before the negotiations officially begin, there is something I must do first."
"I owe you, and all of Inazuma, an apology, on behalf of my sister."
"I'm deeply sorry… for the suffering her choices have brought upon you, and upon this nation."
Kokomi froze. Her lips parted slightly, as if to speak, but no words came out.
Then, after a long moment of realization, her eyes widened.
"Baal… sama?"
~~----------------------
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