"Hmm…" Ningguang nodded thoughtfully after hearing Akio's words.
"It's fine. It's my personal business, not related to Liyue's affairs," Ningguang said seriously.
"That's not the point. I don't want you to compromise for someone else, understand?" Akio replied.
"My dear, as a merchant, you should know that capability is what matters most. If you keep helping them unconditionally, they'll only lose their sense of self."
"Besides, I don't want to see you making sacrifices," Akio added earnestly.
"Alright~" Ningguang's eyes sparkled with affection, and a happy expression spread across her face.
To be honest, hearing Akio's words made Ningguang very happy. It showed that he truly respected her and treated her as his beloved, not just as a tool.
Ningguang naturally wouldn't refuse Akio's request. Even if it meant taking a loss, she would do it without hesitation or complaint—all for Akio's sake.
But deep down, it would still sadden her.
After all, the once lofty Tianquan had now fallen for this man, hadn't she?
"Oh, by the way, husband, Keqing, Ganyu, and I have discussed it. We'll be returning to Liyue in about a week," Ningguang said. "If possible, have Kokomi prepare her proposal and come see me as soon as she can."
"Got it," Akio nodded. "I'll have her start preparing right away."
"Mhm," Ningguang nodded.
The two chatted affectionately for a while longer, but then Ningguang suddenly remembered something. "Oh, husband, there's something I'd like to ask of you."
"Sure, my dear. What is it?" Akio was always ready to fulfill his women's requests.
"It's about Ganyu. She's been in a bit of a slump lately," Ningguang said with a hint of helplessness. "Keqing and I have both tried talking to her, but she won't tell us the truth."
"I was wondering if you could take a look at her situation when you have the time?" Ningguang asked.
"Of course," Akio nodded, though he was a bit puzzled. "But why do you think I'm the one to give her a psychological consultation?"
"Sigh…" Ningguang sighed. "Ganyu isn't an ordinary person. She might feel that mortals can't understand her. You're a god, so I thought you might have some common ground with her."
"I see," Akio nodded. "Alright, I'll check on her when I get back."
"Good," Ningguang nodded, then suddenly smirked mischievously. "Husband, Ganyu is a divine qilin, you know? And she's so beautiful. If you could…"
Ningguang didn't finish her sentence, but Akio understood her meaning and couldn't help but smile.
"You little rascal, do you really enjoy finding wives for me?" Akio teased.
"Hmph, you're already so flirtatious. With Ganyu being so stunning, I don't believe you haven't been tempted," Ningguang pouted in a playful, girlish manner.
"But Ganyu has guarded Liyue for over three thousand years, always alone. No ordinary person could ever match such a divine creature," Ningguang said with a smile. "As the most powerful god, having such a beauty by your side wouldn't be a loss, would it?"
Just as Akio and Ningguang were chatting, the door to Ningguang's room was pushed open.
Ningguang turned to see Keqing walking in, her face darkening. "Keqing! I gave you the key to my room, but you always barge in like this! What if I were changing?"
"What's the big deal? We're both Akio's wives. What are you afraid of?" Keqing said nonchalantly.
"It's almost noon, and you're still in bed? How can you be so lazy? Come out and go shopping with me," Keqing said as she walked over.
"No, I'm on a video call with my husband," Ningguang shook her head. As if she'd go shopping when she could talk to Akio.
"Huh?" Keqing walked over and realized Ningguang was indeed on a call with Akio. She quickly greeted him.
"Akio!"
"Hey, Keqing. Going shopping?" Akio smiled.
"Not anymore, not anymore," Keqing shook her head, indicating that talking to Akio was far more important.
"What are you two talking about?" Keqing asked curiously, sitting down beside Ningguang.
"Hey! Don't sit on my bed with your outdoor clothes on!" Ningguang scolded.
"I just bought this outfit! I haven't even worn it yet," Keqing rolled her eyes but still took off her outerwear and climbed into Ningguang's bed.
"…" Ningguang was speechless.
"So, what are you two talking about?" Keqing asked.
Akio explained the situation with Watatsumi Island to Keqing.
Keqing nodded, fully agreeing with Akio's perspective.
"She has to prove her capabilities before we can help her. We won't support someone who just wants to freeload."
"Keqing! Watch your words!" Ningguang frowned. "Kokomi is our sister, and Akio's woman!"
"Keqing's not wrong, but don't underestimate Kokomi," Akio said with a smile.
"Before I came to Inazuma, she led the Resistance and repeatedly pushed Sara's Shogunate Army to the brink."
"And even though Watatsumi Island is poor, under her leadership, it's been managed very well," Akio added. "Even Yae Miko and Ei have praised her abilities."
"Oh?" Ningguang and Keqing's interest was piqued. If the Shogun and the Guuji of Inazuma both praised her, she must be truly exceptional.
"This is getting interesting," Keqing and Ningguang exchanged glances. Both were top-tier leaders themselves and naturally disliked the idea of a mere figurehead.
"Hahaha! You'll see for yourselves when you meet her," Akio laughed.
"Oh, Keqing, there's also the matter of Ganyu," Ningguang felt she shouldn't keep it from Keqing and explained the situation.
To her surprise, instead of objecting, Keqing fully supported the idea.
"Hey, Ningguang, what's with that look? Do you think I'm some unreasonable person?" Keqing said, annoyed by Ningguang's surprised expression. "Don't forget, I was the one who agreed to you too."
"Yes, yes! Keqing is the best," Ningguang smiled.
"Hmph," Keqing snorted lightly.
"But speaking of Ganyu, she's worked tirelessly for Liyue for thousands of years. Even I admire her dedication to her work," Keqing said.
"Ganyu once said it was a contract she made with Rex Lapis. But even though Rex Lapis is gone, she still upholds that contract. I respect her perseverance," Keqing added.
"So, Akio, please help Ganyu. She's outstanding and perfect, and Liyue can't afford to lose such an impeccable secretary," Keqing said seriously.
"Don't worry," Akio nodded. With him on the case, how could he not win over Ganyu?
This soft and adorable little qilin had been on his mind for a long time.
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