Chapter 149. Leave Liyue; Return to Inazuma
Futsu Mitama and the others ultimately did not possess the fortune to enjoy Hu Tao's so-called special dish.
Or rather—her farewell dish.
Shenhe had, at first, harbored the faintest curiosity. As an Adeptus Disciple, her constitution was far from ordinary; surely a single bite would not harm her.
Yet after witnessing Yae Miko's condition—Shenhe quietly took half a step backward.
That subtle retreat was answer enough.
At the same time, the group hastened toward Liyue Harbor with unmistakable urgency. None dared linger. Should they delay even a single night more—
It was entirely possible that Hu Tao might knock upon their doors beneath the cover of darkness, plate in hand, smile radiant, insisting they partake. If it were any ordinary chef, tasting one's own creation and discovering fault would be sufficient deterrent.
But Hu Tao had eaten it without so much as a change in expression.
Yae Miko, meanwhile, had collapsed instantly—
At that point, there was simply no place left to begin one's complaints.
On the road to Liyue Harbor, realization dawned upon Futsu Mitama.
The man who had sold him that residence—so generous, so accommodating, even faintly pitying—
He had known. He had known everything. And said nothing.
Before long, the sea breeze greeted them, and the towering hull of the Alcor came into view.
It was morning. The crew who had indulged in drink the previous night were now largely sober. Upon seeing Futsu Mitama approach, several cast him looks tinged with unmistakable admiration.
A formidable individual.
For the first time in memory, Captain Beidou had been drunk into unconsciousness.
Such a feat bordered on legend.
Captain Beidou was famed for drinking others beneath the table. Never had the reverse occurred.
"Where is Sister Beidou?" Futsu Mitama asked upon boarding, directing his question to the first mate.
Given her strength, she should have shaken off the effects by now. Her absence from the deck was unusual.
"In the captain's cabin," the first mate replied steadily. "Tianquan Star Ningguang of the Liyue Qixing has come aboard."
"Big Sis is entertaining her. Would you like to go?"
As first mate of The Crux Fleet, he understood Futsu Mitama's standing in Liyue. Escorting him to the captain's cabin was not inappropriate. Moreover, Beidou had given explicit instructions: should Futsu Mitama arrive, he was to be brought immediately.
"Ningguang?"
Futsu Mitama's brows lifted slightly.
Ordinarily, it was Beidou who visited the Jade Chamber. Ningguang coming personally to the Alcor was…rare.
Still, surprise did not delay him. He nodded and proceeded.
Shenhe, Aila, and Kuki Shinobu followed without objection. So long as they were safely beyond the influence of Wangsheng Funeral Parlor, all was acceptable.
Guided by the first mate, they soon reached the captain's cabin. Voices within carried clearly through the door.
"You mean to say you don't know either?"
Beidou's voice was sharp with disbelief.
"Are you joking? You're the Tianquan Star. The Lord of Geo entrusted you with Liyue Harbor, not with saying you don't know."
"This matter is rather intricate," Ningguang replied, tone measured and composed. "I contacted the Adeptus overnight. They have assured me there is no grave issue. Yet your perception is keen. I did not come to discuss this matter—but you brought it forth yourself."
Before further words could pass between them, a knock sounded.
"Enter," Beidou called.
The first mate opened the door and ushered Futsu Mitama and the others inside.
"Big Sis, I've brought Futsu Mitama and the others."
"Oh? They're here?"
Beidou's eyes brightened instantly. She turned toward Futsu Mitama, her laughter unrestrained.
"Well? Have you decided when to head for Inazuma? And has that matter been resolved?"
Yesterday, he had spoken of departing within two days. Whether that timeline still held… or whether "that matter" had concluded—she had not known.
"Yes. We're leaving today," Futsu Mitama answered earnestly. "The sooner, the better."
Hu Tao had thoroughly altered his sense of urgency.
"???"
Ningguang and Beidou exchanged glances.
Leaving today? With such haste?
"Has the situation in Inazuma worsened?" Beidou asked, surprise evident.
From prior discussion, she knew Inazuma's state was tense—serious enough to require the return of two retainers of the Raiden Shogun.
But had matters escalated overnight?
Ningguang's gaze shifted, observant as ever. She noted Yae Miko supported between Shenhe and Aila, eyes closed, unconscious.
A flicker of doubt crossed her expression.
"It's not a question of severity," Futsu Mitama replied, expression subtle. "I simply wish to return early."
He could hardly attribute their departure to Hu Tao's culinary enthusiasm.
"Very well," Beidou said with a dismissive wave. "I won't pry."
Internal affairs of Inazuma were not her concern.
"But if you wish to depart swiftly—" She stroked her chin thoughtfully. "Once I finish the matter at hand, we can set sail."
Her glance shifted pointedly toward Ningguang.
Ningguang only smiled.
"Understood," Futsu Mitama nodded. "Then we won't disturb you further."
He turned, intending to withdraw. As Beidou refrained from probing Inazuma's affairs, so too would he avoid entanglement in Liyue's governance. Yet—
"Please wait."
Ningguang's voice halted them.
She regarded Futsu Mitama with a gentle smile. "If you would, hear what I have to say. I also have something to inquire of you."
The group paused.
Beidou's eyes flickered with mild curiosity but she remained silent.
"What is it?" Shenhe asked calmly.
Liyue's circumstances were delicate. Over half a month had passed since the Rite of Descension. The Liyue Qixing bore responsibility for presenting a satisfactory report to the Lord of Geo.
The Adeptus did not interfere in human governance.
As an Adeptus Disciple, Shenhe likewise could not.
"It is nothing major," Ningguang said smoothly. "If you do not know, that is perfectly acceptable."
"But if you do know something…within permissible bounds, might you share a fragment? Merely to set our minds at ease."
Her phrasing was precise—official, restrained.
Among the five before her, only Kuki Shinobu might offer limited assistance. The others' identities were far too sensitive.
If not direct aid, then information would suffice.
"You do enjoy circling the point," Beidou muttered, shaking her head.
She faced Futsu Mitama directly.
"Simply put—a significant event occurred in Liyue Harbor last night."
"A significant event—"
Futsu Mitama already suspected the answer.
Guizhong's resurrection. The disturbance among the Adeptus.
His invocation of Electro Archon Authority alone would have drawn attention. And Guizhong's release of Demon Gods power—
That was no trivial tremor like that of a mere Primo Geovishap.
"Yes," Beidou affirmed gravely. "Last night, when I was drunk and unconscious thanks to you…"
"A terrifying aura swept through Liyue Harbor. It lasted barely a dozen seconds. But it was enough to jolt me awake."
Ningguang's eyes sharpened slightly at that detail. She studied Futsu Mitama anew.
To drink Beidou under the table was already extraordinary.
"You awoke in that state?" Futsu Mitama asked, faint surprise in his voice.
He had not anticipated such sensitivity.
"Of course." Beidou crossed her arms. "At sea, harsh cold is commonplace. We drink strong liquor to endure it. And when spirits are high, we cook a few dishes and drink until we fall."
Her gaze held steady.
"Yet even in such a state—that aura was impossible to ignore. But even when drunk, if danger strikes—if a sea monster attacks—my brothers will sober instantly."
Beidou's chin lifted slightly as she spoke, pride undisguised. This was The Crux's discipline.
On her ship, indulgence was permitted—but weakness was not. If someone lost control because of drink, then next time they would stand aside and watch, or merely wet their lips. No one was allowed to endanger the fleet for the sake of revelry.
"And…" A trace of gravity entered her gaze. "That aura last night was far more terrifying than any sea monster. If a leviathan rose from the depths, I would wake—but not that quickly." Her fingers tapped lightly against her arm.
"That sensation…was as though a blade had been pressed against my throat."
Even now, recalling it, her expression remained solemn.
The presence had not merely startled her.
It had warned her.
Beidou had encountered Adeptus before. She understood the weight of their power.
But what she felt last night—Surpassed them.
A being stronger than the Adeptus. In Liyue, such existences were few.
Besides the Archons…who else could it be?
Yet it could not have been the Geo Archon. During the Rite of Descension, Liyue's people had long grown accustomed to that familiar authority.
No. This aura had been different. Unfamiliar.
"Yes. Just as Captain Beidou says."
Ningguang inclined her head slightly, eyes steady upon Futsu Mitama. "The owner of that aura was extraordinarily powerful. The Qixing would likely be no match."
"However, since that presence manifested within Liyue Harbor, we bear responsibility to determine whether they are friend or foe."
The Adeptus had remained silent. That silence alone was meaningful.
Ningguang suspected this was a test—whether by the Adeptus or by fate itself. Regardless, the Qixing could not ignore it.
"If the Qixing cannot investigate it," Beidou added with a shrug, "then it falls to me."
She was accustomed to Ningguang appearing unannounced with requests. The rewards were always generous—and always honored.
"So that is the matter." Futsu Mitama nodded faintly. "Last night, I was handling precisely that. I know the owner of that aura. As for whether they are friend or foe—you may draw your own conclusions."
The words were spoken calmly. Yet the weight within them was immense.
Ningguang and Beidou both froze.
You handled it? You know them?
"You jest," Ningguang said slowly, though her fingers tightened ever so slightly around her pipe. "If you know them—is there still need for us to determine allegiance?"
Her mind raced. If Futsu Mitama had been involved—
If he spoke so assuredly—
Then the being in question was almost certainly not hostile.
Though he had denied succession more than once, in the hearts of many among the Qixing, he was already regarded as the Geo Archon's chosen successor.
The Lord of Geo had spoken of an era shared between humans and Adeptus.
An era of transition. If such a being had appeared under his awareness—then perhaps Rex Lapis Himself had permitted it.
No wonder the Adeptus had offered no statement.
"No wonder," Beidou muttered, giving Futsu Mitama a long look. "Yesterday I thought to drink you under the table to see what you were planning."
"Instead, I was the one who fell. And while I lay unconscious, you settled the matter."
There was no resentment in her voice—only frank admiration.
"I will not elaborate," Futsu Mitama replied evenly. "The Adeptus are aware. If they choose to speak, they will."
The implication was clear. Some matters were not his to disclose.
"Naturally." Ningguang smiled faintly. The confirmation was enough.
If the presence was not hostile, then the Qixing could proceed carefully, without haste or alarm.
For now, that sufficed.
"In that case, I shall take my leave." Ningguang rose gracefully. "Our prior arrangement is suspended. Captain Beidou, please deliver them safely to Inazuma first. If you are not at the helm yourself, I would not be at ease."
Among Liyue's captains, many were experienced.
But none inspired the same confidence as Beidou.
Storms, sea beasts, pirates—none had ever prevented The Crux from reaching its destination.
"Enough, enough." Beidou waved dismissively. "Even without your urging, I'll see them safely to Inazuma."
Ningguang offered a final courteous nod to the group. "There remains much awaiting me at the Jade Chamber. Forgive the inadequate hospitality this time. Next occasion, I shall make proper amends."
With that, she departed.
Beidou watched her leave and snorted softly. "That woman is busier than ever. In the past, she would have followed me to Inazuma just to see the sights and gather information. Now she runs the moment she's done talking. How pitiful."
There was a trace of teasing in her tone.
"This is only natural," Futsu Mitama replied quietly. "The era of humans and Adeptus has begun. The Qixing must bear more than ever."
Shenhe nodded faintly. "They are worthy of respect."
Through the Chat Group, she had witnessed Keqing's exhaustion firsthand.
Sangonomiya Kokomi fared little better.
Watatsumi Island's Divine Priestess—fourth-in-command of the Resistance—was so overwhelmed she scarcely had time to rest, let alone sleep.
Intelligence from the Tenryou Commission.
Fatui movements in Tatarasuna.
New recruits, Guizhong Ballista adjustments, distribution of Klee's Jumpy Dumpty, morale management—
Even Keqing had praised Kokomi's resilience.
Raiden Makoto had expressed quiet guilt.
Yae Miko had promised that when the war ended, Watatsumi Island would receive due recognition—and Kokomi, long-overdue rest.
For now, Kokomi could only endure.
Return quickly, she had silently hoped.
When they returned, perhaps peace would follow.
Within the captain's cabin, conversation drifted toward Liyue's reforms and the burdens of governance.
It was then—
"Ah~"
A soft, languid sound broke the air.
Yae Miko's eyes fluttered open.
She stretched slowly, elegant and unhurried, as though waking from the most pleasant of naps.
"I slept wonderfully~"
Her gaze shifted.
She blinked.
"Hm?"
She frowned slightly and looked at Futsu Mitama. "Little one, how did you move me from my room to here without waking me?"
Silence.
Five pairs of eyes regarded her.
Moved? She had been carried.
"Eh?"
Sensing the atmosphere, Yae Miko's smile faltered ever so slightly.
"I'll go prepare the crew," Beidou said briskly, rising. She was perceptive enough not to intrude further.
Once the door closed—Yae Miko sat upright, expression sharpening.
"What happened?"
"You may consult the Chat Group," Futsu Mitama answered, voice faintly complicated. "Scroll upward."
Yae Miko complied immediately.
As was habit.
Her expression shifted.
Then stiffened.
The messages.
Her messages.
The dream had felt real—Inazuma five hundred years ago, before the calamity.
But—Why had she spoken aloud? Why had she sent messages?
For the first time in many years, Yae Miko felt a strong urge to disappear for several decades. Talking in one's sleep was something only Sangonomiya Kokomi had done before.
Now she had joined that distinguished category. Outwardly, she maintained composure.
"So that is the case." She smiled serenely. "That young Hu Tao…her cooking rivals Ei's."
"Eh?" came three stunned voices at once.
Yae Miko's smile sharpened. "That is not convenient to elaborate upon. If we are departing, then let us depart swiftly."
Revealing Raiden Ei's culinary aptitude was not wise. One day, Ei would enter the Chat Group.
And then—Even if she could evade one or two strikes, the outcome would not favor her.
Moreover, Liyue's cuisine, though exquisite, had proven unexpectedly perilous. To be undone by a girl's cooking after five centuries of dominance in Inazuma—
Truly unacceptable.
They moved to the deck.
"Can we depart at once?" Futsu Mitama asked.
"No issue," Beidou replied with a hearty laugh. "I've been ready since yesterday. But I cannot promise arrival within five days. The last voyage in three days was already a miracle. If disaster strikes, I cannot command the sea itself."
Under ordinary conditions, five days sufficed.
Four, with favorable winds.
Three, with fortune's blessing.
But the sea was fickle.
Ten days.
Half a month.
Such delays were not unheard of.
"You need not worry," Futsu Mitama said with a faint, knowing smile.
"I have connections. No matter how harsh the weather—there are ways to resolve it."
"?"
Yae Miko tilted her head, fox-like eyes narrowing slightly as she regarded Futsu Mitama.
There was unmistakable disbelief in her gaze.
Even Ei had never shown her such preferential treatment.
"This—" Beidou, too, wore an expression rarely seen upon her face—genuine astonishment. For an ordinary mortal to receive the favor of one god in Liyue was already akin to ancestral graves emitting green smoke.
Yet here stood someone who seemed to enjoy the backing of two.
Enviable did not begin to describe it.
"If the weather holds, I guarantee arrival in Inazuma within four days." Beidou thumped her chest confidently. Then she asked, practical as ever, "Watatsumi Island first—or Ritou?"
The distinction was not trivial.
Ritou belonged to the Kanjou Commission, one of the Three Commissions governing Inazuma. Watatsumi Island was the Resistance's stronghold.
Different routes. Different implications.
"Watatsumi Island," Futsu Mitama answered without hesitation.
Sangonomiya Kokomi was already stretched to her limits. If they delayed further, she might very well end up clutching condensed resin through tearful overtime instead of enjoying a single full night's rest.
Yae Miko gave a faint nod. The burden placed upon Kokomi by herself and Raiden Makoto had indeed been excessive.
Relief was overdue.
"Alright!" Beidou turned and roared toward the crew. "Move it! We set sail!"
A resounding cheer answered her.
Since the Rite of Descension, The Crux had remained docked. Sailors yearned for the sea as fish yearned for water.
Soon, the Alcor pulled away from Liyue Harbor.
As the shoreline receded, a subtle quiet settled among the group.
Then—
Futsu Mitama, Shenhe, and Yae Miko all turned simultaneously toward the harbor.
There, upon the pier, stood Guizhong.
She waved gently. Beside her stood a young girl holding a zither, serene and graceful, watching the Alcor's departure.
"That is…" Futsu Mitama's eyes flickered with surprise.
In his previous life, speculation had linked that figure to Madam Ping's younger days.
But Madam Ping was elderly now. Why had she appeared so youthful?
"A Liyue Adeptus," Yae Miko replied lightly. "She came with Guizhong to see us off. No need to concern yourself."
Shenhe nodded, though even she seemed faintly surprised. The Streetward Rambler had chosen to assume her younger form to bid them farewell.
The sea opened before them.
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