Chapter 99. Guizhong!!!
Shock—profound, undeniable shock.
At that moment, as Futsu Mitama stared at the list of names that could be pulled into the group, an indescribable complexity welled up in his heart.
What was going on?
Why would Guizhong's name appear there?
Could it be that the Memory of Dust still contained Guizhong's consciousness? Just as Raiden Makoto had left a fragment of herself within Musou Isshin, had Guizhong done the same—leaving her will sealed within her divine relic?
If that were the case, it would barely make sense.
But even so—should he really pull Guizhong into the group?
Why did it feel as though this Chat Group of his specialized in recruiting those who had already passed beyond the mortal world?
Futsu Mitama muttered inwardly, but his hesitation lasted only an instant. His grip tightened around Musou Isshin as he surged forward, chasing after Shenhe and plunging straight into battle.
In this area, aside from the Fatui agent Yelan had mentioned and Dottore himself, the rest were nothing more than monsters and Ruin Guards.
"?"
Yelan frowned slightly.
She had clearly sensed that Futsu Mitama had paused just now—only for a fleeting moment, as if he had seen something utterly astonishing. Yet in the next breath, he had already charged forward, blade in hand.
What had he discovered?
Yelan was no ordinary woman. Bearing countless identities, she was known as someone with a thousand faces. Years of experience and intelligence work told her one thing clearly—
Futsu Mitama had definitely realized something just now.
He simply chose not to say it.
Her gaze flickered, but she did not press the matter. Instead, she followed behind him in silence, accelerating into the depths of the ruins.
At this point, stealth was meaningless. They had already been exposed. Since matters had come to this, a direct assault was the only remaining path.
Coincidentally, Yelan also intended to observe.
She wanted to see—just how strong an Adeptus Disciple and a Raiden Shogun's retainer truly were.
She was confident in her own abilities. In Liyue Harbor, there were few who could match her in combat. That was precisely why she wished to compare.
How wide was the gap between herself and them?
As Yelan and Futsu Mitama entered the ruins, a chilling scene unfolded before them.
Rows upon rows of Hilichurls stood frozen solid, their bodies locked mid-charge, wooden clubs raised but never brought down.
They were ordinary Hilichurls—fodder that relied solely on reckless charges.
The scene spoke clearly enough.
The moment Shenhe had entered, these creatures had rushed forward without fear, only to be instantly sealed in ice.
Ahead, two Geovishaps wreathed in black aura circled Shenhe, roaring incessantly. Frost still clung to their scales, remnants of the freezing power that had annihilated the Hilichurls.
They did not immediately attack.
They were wary.
Farther back, three Ruin Guards stood with cannons fully charged, their targeting systems locked firmly onto Shenhe.
Yet Shenhe remained utterly unmoved.
Forming a hand seal, she let frigid energy surge around her body. Whether Geovishaps or Ruin Guards—it made no difference.
Compared to the Primo Geovishap of the past, these threats were insignificant.
"This is quite the setup," Futsu Mitama remarked, Musou Isshin humming softly as he prepared to strike. His gaze was fixed on the Geovishaps ready to lunge at Shenhe.
Old acquaintances, indeed. Since arriving in Liyue, he had slain more than a few of their kind.
"It is impressive," Yelan replied calmly as she drew her bow, Hydro gathering along the arrowhead. Her eyes narrowed toward the shadows beyond the Ruin Guards. "But don't relax. This is likely only the opening act."
"Still, an opening act of this level won't stop you two."
Her fingers released.
The Hydro-charged arrow shot forward like a falling star.
Juan Strickler reacted instantly, retreating backward as a Ruin Guard he had just activated stepped forward, using its massive body as a shield.
Bang—!!!
The arrow detonated, blasting a gaping hole through the Ruin Guard's chest.
Juan's pupils contracted sharply.
If that attack had struck him directly, death would have been instantaneous.
Suppressing his fear, Juan retreated further. He needed time—to activate more traps, more Ruin Guards. The monsters would awaken on their own, but the Ruin Guards required manual activation.
Dottore had anticipated this long ago.
Truly worthy of a Harbinger—his foresight was almost godlike.
At the same time, Juan felt a chill creep up his spine.
Liyue's response was far too fast.
As he withdrew, two more Ruin Guards rose to their feet. Together with the three already active units, five towering machines locked onto Futsu Mitama and Shenhe.
Roar—!!!
The two Geovishaps suddenly howled, their eyes turning blood-red as violent energy surged from their bodies.
In an instant, they abandoned Shenhe and lunged straight at Futsu Mitama.
"Tch—again?" Futsu Mitama felt an odd sense of déjà vu.
Why did every Geovishap seem to look at him as if he had slaughtered their ancestors? He hadn't even delivered the finishing blow back then—Cloud Retainer had crushed it, and Xiao had ended it.
At most, Futsu Mitama had looted the corpse afterward.
Could it be they sensed the Juvenile Jade on him?
Before the thought could settle, he and Shenhe moved as one.
Musou Isshin flashed. Calamity Queller pierced forth.
Purple lightning and icy blue light crossed the air.
One Geovishap was beheaded.
The other had its skull pierced clean through.
Their massive bodies collapsed lifelessly to the ground.
Yelan's eyes narrowed.
Strong.
Even she could not kill a Geovishap in a single strike. Their scales alone were enough to repel most attacks. Yet these two had ignored those defenses entirely—ending the beasts in one move.
Swish—!!! Swish—!!!
Missiles rained down in a dense barrage.
The combined cannon fire of five Ruin Guards was terrifying, especially within the narrow confines of the ruins. Even glancing explosions could collapse stone and obstruct movement.
Yelan's hand moved toward her glowing bracelet, pale blue light gathering as she prepared to intercept the barrage in one sweep.
Shenhe raised a talisman, expression unchanged, ready to form a defensive seal.
But Futsu Mitama stepped forward.
"Immovable."
Geo energy surged as stone pillars erupted from the ground, forming a barrier. At the same time, a Jade Shield enveloped the three of them.
"Geo?" Yelan glanced at him, surprise flashing across her face.
Futsu Mitama chuckled lightly. "As a Raiden Shogun's retainer, learning some Geo techniques in Liyue isn't strange, is it?"
Yelan did not reply.
Because it was strange.
Using two elements without a Vision or Delusion—switching between Electro and Geo with such mastery—was something she had seen only a handful of times in her life.
The missiles crashed down, shattering most of the stone pillars. The remnants struck the Jade Shield, causing only minor ripples.
Realizing the barrage was ineffective, the Ruin Guards began advancing.
"Leave this to me," Yelan said, stepping forward. "The one you're after went deeper."
"I'll hold them here. Don't worry—just keep moving."
Blue light flared.
Yelan vanished into a streak of water-like afterimages as ethereal threads lashed out, entangling the Ruin Guards' legs.
Bang—!!
Several machines lost balance and crashed heavily to the ground. The remaining units turned toward her, designating her as their primary target.
Yelan remained calm.
Five Ruin Guards were troublesome—but manageable, given time.
She knew her role.
She was the support.
The true vanguard lay ahead.
Futsu Mitama and Shenhe did not hesitate. They passed her without a word, charging deeper into the ruins.
Yelan nodded faintly.
Clean execution. No wasted motion.
Truly worthy of their titles.
Beyond the Ruin Guards, more monsters awaited—Whopperflowers, Specters, and two Mitachurls, all tainted with black aura.
Shenhe's brows knit slightly.
"These are not remnants of a Demon God," she said calmly, skewering several Specters midair. "This is Abyssal power. It dominates these creatures—turning them into soldiers."
She knew this power well. Her suspicions from earlier had now been fully confirmed.
"It's not surprising that Dottore is using Abyssal Power. You've seen it before—the power Black Aila used when he abducted Aila back then."
As Futsu Mitama spoke, a Whopperflower suddenly burst out from behind him. Without even turning his head, he backhanded it. The blade flashed once, clean and ruthless, slicing the monster neatly in two before it could even scream.
He turned, raising one hand.
Purple lightning tore through the air like a rift splitting open space itself. With a deafening crack, the Mitachurl's arm was severed at the shoulder, scattering fragments of Geo energy as the Chakra Desiderata slowly manifested behind Futsu Mitama, radiating oppressive might.
"Swish—!"
In the next instant, his figure vanished.
He reappeared directly above the Mitachurl's head, violet lightning blazing within his eyes. The Musou Isshin descended in a single, decisive arc.
"Roar—!!!"
The Mitachurl roared in fury, Geo energy surging across its body, forming a thick defensive layer over its skull.
But it was meaningless.
The blade cut through without pause.
Geo shield shattered. The head fell.
"…."
At the mention of Black Aila, Shenhe fell silent.
It was true.
Black Aila possessed both Abyssal Power and divine authority—something that should not have been possible in theory. Even Shenhe, who had spent years walking the path of demon-slaying and evil-exorcising, had never once encountered an existence capable of wielding both.
"Roar!"
The remaining Mitachurl charged her, fists swinging down with crushing force.
Shenhe summoned an ice puppet, the construct forming instantly to block the blow. At the same time, she affixed a talisman to herself. Without hesitation, she stepped forward and threw a punch.
The impact detonated like thunder.
The Mitachurl was sent flying, blood spraying from its mouth as its massive body slammed into the ground.
Futsu Mitama's eye twitched slightly.
Further reinforced by talismans, Shenhe's physical strength was monstrous.
"Swish—!"
Shenhe hurled the Calamity Queller. The spear pierced straight through the Mitachurl's skull, pinning it to the ground and extinguishing its life instantly.
"Alright," Futsu Mitama said, gaze lifting toward the depths ahead. "Now the main show begins."
With the monsters cleared, he tightened his grip on Musou Isshin and advanced deeper into the ruins alongside Shenhe. At the same time, he activated the Chat Group's live stream.
Facing Dottore would require caution.
Even if the opponent was merely a clone, there was no guarantee of its strength. If it was a high-ranking clone, then even he and Shenhe together might struggle to suppress it.
At the very least, opening the live stream would allow Zhongli to see what was happening.
Futsu Mitama had already decided—once he saw Dottore himself, or confirmed traces of the Memory of Dust, he would pull Guizhong into the Chat Group.
No matter what happened after that, Zhongli—Lord Rex Lapis—would come.
As for the final invitation slot, he did not care. If it was used, it was used. Once the group leveled up, there would inevitably be more.
More than that, Futsu Mitama was genuinely eager.
Eager to see what would happen when Zhongli and Guizhong met again.
And—he was curious. Why had Guizhong sealed her consciousness within the Memory of Dust?
According to its background, Guizhong had crafted the artifact herself and entrusted it to Lord Rex Lapis, asking him to decipher it.
If deciphered, the one who succeeded would inherit the totality of her knowledge.
Yet thousands of years had passed.
Rex Lapis had never deciphered it. Whether because he could not—or because he chose not to—was unknown.
But now, thousands of years later, Futsu Mitama, aided by the Chat Group, had discovered that Guizhong's consciousness could still be invited.
He was certain.
Zhongli would not remain calm when he learned of this.
—
Deep within the ruins.
Juan rushed into the deepest chamber, where the Memory of Dust lay sealed. He looked at Dottore's back and spoke rapidly, panic evident in his voice.
"Lord Dottore, people from Liyue have arrived."
"I've identified them. One is Futsu Mitama, a retainer of the Raiden Shogun. Another is Yelan from the Ministry of Civil Affairs. The third is suspected to be the white-haired immortal from Mt. Aocang. They're extremely strong. They've already broken through the Mitachurl checkpoint. They'll be here soon."
Juan knew all too well—this exposure was likely his fault. Even if he survived, he would never become Dottore's confidant. But as a Fatui, even death meant advancing and retreating with the Harbinger.
"I know," Dottore replied calmly, his gaze never leaving the Memory of Dust. "Their arrival is earlier than expected."
"According to the original plan, had they arrived tomorrow, I would already be gone. But arriving now, at such a critical moment—how dramatic."
If they had come tomorrow, the seal left by Rex Lapis would already have been broken. He could have taken the Memory of Dust and left without resistance. If unnoticed, he might even have remained here, slowly unraveling its secrets.
The knowledge of the God of Dust was something Dottore deeply coveted. It was said that even Lord Rex Lapis, when discussing knowledge with Guizhong, could not surpass her.
Though not a god of wisdom, Rex Lapis had lived for ages—he was knowledge incarnate. If even he fell short, Guizhong's intellect was beyond question.
Otherwise, Dottore would not have gone to such lengths in Liyue, nor exploited the Abyss Order's scheme involving Primo Geovishap.
He had planned everything.
Lure Primo Geovishap to a ruin saturated with Demon God remnants. Drive him berserk. Create chaos. Divert attention. Frame the Abyss Order.
Yet before it even began, Primo Geovishap was drawn away—then slain by an immortal and Futsu Mitama together.
Dottore had been on Mt. Aocang at the time. By the time he learned the truth, it was already too late. And now, just as the plan reached its critical stage—
Futsu Mitama arrived again.
"Fate?" Dottore sighed softly, a cold smile forming. "I don't believe in such things. Since he's coming, then I'll give him a final ultimatum."
"Join us… or disappear."
Black energy surged around his hand as he accelerated the corrosion of the seal, intent on retrieving the Memory of Dust before they arrived.
Juan retreated toward the entrance.
"Bang—!!!"
In the next instant, Juan's body was hurled backward, embedded into the wall. His eyes rolled back—defeated in a single blow.
"Hmph. So you really came."
Dottore turned, ignoring Juan entirely.
Futsu Mitama and Shenhe stood at the entrance. The Abyssal power swirling in Dottore's hand made their expressions heavy.
"Abyssal Power," Futsu Mitama said gravely. "Have you truly joined the Abyss?"
Shenhe tightened her grip on the Calamity Queller.
She did not attack.
She only stared.
This man was terrifyingly strong. Stronger than anyone she could face alone.
"Abyss?" Dottore chuckled faintly. "This is merely borrowed power. The Abyss itself is a failure. They resisted the Heavenly Principles—and failed."
"This power is both curse and weapon. Ordinary people cannot control it. I, too, am ordinary. I merely borrow it."
Then his gaze sharpened.
"But your maid's 'clone'—she perfectly fused divine power and Abyssal Power."
"I thought she would die."
"Yet she survived."
"That was unexpected."
Futsu Mitama's killing intent surged.
Because Dottore's words confirmed everything.
The abduction. The experiments. The clone.
And his continued intent to use Aila as bait.
"Don't look at me like that," Dottore said calmly, raising a hand. "I have no intention of being your enemy. Killing you would be a waste. I wish to make you an offer—once more."
His expression became solemn.
"You need not become my subordinate."
"You may retain your title as the Raiden Shogun's retainer."
"But I require you to swear, in the name of Lord Rex Lapis, to sign a contract with us."
"I will personally elevate you to one of the Twelve Harbingers."
"In time, you may stand second only to me."
"Or surpass me."
He extended his hand.
"Join us, Futsu Mitama. Your wisdom is wasted in that decaying nation."
"Joining the Fatui is your only way out."
Futsu Mitama said nothing.
Not because he hesitated—
But because he was speaking with the Chat Group.
[Raiden Makoto: "What arrogance! 'Only way out'? He dares poach Inazuma's people!"]
[Yae Miko: "Heh~ Shameless as ever. But that artifact—that's the Memory of Dust, isn't it?"]
[Azhdaha: "It's genuine. Does Morax truly not know?"]
[Zhongli: "So that is how it was—"]
[Futsu Mitama: "@Azhdaha—do you wish to invite Guizhong?"]
Only Azhdaha could decide. And whatever followed—he, Futsu Mitama, would gain the most.
If Guizhong joined, her daily check-in would become nourishment for his ascent.
As for whether Guizhong could sign in and obtain an item?
Impossible. Absolutely impossible.
———
Beneath Mt. Hulao, sealed deep underground, Azhdaha was likewise lost in thought.
Tomorrow would be the Rite of Descension. If possible, he wanted to pull Morax into the Chat Group. No matter what, Morax was closer to him than Guizhong.
And yet—Guizhong was an old friend as well.
He had mourned her deeply when she fell in Guili Plains. He never expected her to 'return.'
Though the phrase felt inaccurate, the truth itself was no less unsettling.
One old friend stood alive beneath the skies of Liyue.
Another lingered within memories, having waited thousands of years.
"Morax," Azhdaha sighed. "There's no helping it. I can only ask you to wait a little longer. Guizhong has waited for you for millennia."
"Within the Memory of Dust, she has endured countless years. If her consciousness dissipates—I would become a regret it beyond redemption."
With resolve hardening in his heart, Azhdaha turned to the Chat Group and began to type.
"Azhdaha: Could you add Guizhong? Compared to Morax, who still walks Liyue, she must be saved first.I don't know how much longer she can endure. I'll do my best these next few days to raise the Chat Group's level."
"Raiden Makoto: I understand that feeling. Endless darkness is torment itself. Even Archons are not immune. Consciousness can be worn away."
"Zhongli: …"
"Futsu Mitama: Understood."
———
Outside the ruins, Dottore waited patiently, his expression relaxed.
"Well?" he asked with a smile. "This is hardly a difficult decision. As long as you agree, I will grant you the complete knowledge of an Archon. Do you know how rare such an opportunity is, under The Seven? This is not only my chance—but yours as well."
To Dottore, the offer was irresistible. Futsu Mitama's earlier refusal and current silence spoke volumes.
Nearby, Shenhe quietly regulated her breathing. She knew Futsu Mitama would not be swayed. More likely, he was buying time—recovering strength, just as she was.
"Don't rush," Futsu Mitama said at last, raising a hand. "I still have something to do."
"?"
Dottore paused, then chuckled. "Very well. Tomorrow is the Rite of Descension. Morax will not interfere. The Abyss Order, the Fatui, and Liyue Harbor will keep him occupied."
As Dottore spoke, Futsu Mitama activated the permission—and selected Guizhong.
He was not certain it would work.
Zhongli and Yae Miko had only joined after conscious consent.
Those drawn in unconsciously—Makoto, Azhdaha—had been pulled in by chance.
Whether Guizhong could be brought in now—he could only hope.
Buzz—!!!
The Memory of Dust erupted with dazzling golden light.
Dottore's expression changed. "What? It's been sealed for so long—why now?"
In that instant of distraction—
Shenhe struck.
Calamity Queller flashed as she lunged forward.
"A sneak attack?" Dottore snorted. Abyssal power surged, black mist enveloping his body. Multiple arms formed behind him, grasping toward Shenhe.
"Manifest."
A talisman ignited, forming an icy construct that blocked the attack.
Futsu Mitama drew Musou Isshin and appeared behind Dottore in a flash of lightning.
Clang!
The blade was stopped—bare-handed.
Futsu Mitama's eyes narrowed. Seventy percent strength, and not even a scratch.
"To be honest," Dottore said coldly, "I'm disappointed. Since you refuse to cooperate, I'll take your wisdom another way."
Dark energy condensed into a blade and slashed toward him.
Futsu Mitama retreated instantly.
Crack—
His Jade Shield fractured.
Every word Dottore spoke sent a buzzing through his ears, his vision blurring.
Something was wrong.
Without hesitation, Futsu Mitama activated the Electro Archon Authority. Divine power surged, dispelling the abnormalities.
At the same time, Shenhe affixed a glowing talisman to herself.
They had both been affected.
A moment later, the golden light of the Memory of Dust faded.
Within the Chat Group, a new message appeared.
"Chat Group Announcement!!!"
"Welcome Guizhong to the Teyvat Continent Loving Family Chat Group."
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