The Jade Chamber, in a certain sense, could be considered its own isolated island.
Here, there were artificial mountains, lotus ponds, and even small fish swimming gracefully within. If it weren't for the fact that it was inaccessible, the place would likely be filled with the cacophony of frogs.
If there were indeed frog croaks, someone would surely be delighted. Perhaps they'd even ask Qiqi to bring along that well-seasoned pot for a hearty feast.
The interior of the Jade Chamber was typically managed by Ningguang's three secretaries: Baiwen, Baishi, and Baixiao. Apart from them, there were only a few specially selected female attendants.
But today, there was an additional person inside the Jade Chamber.
A frail, sickly-looking individual.
"So... that weapon doesn't possess any special power?"
Ningguang stood before her desk, gazing at the exquisitely crafted scale, deep in thought as she inquired.
"Yes, to confirm this, I even pretended to stumble near him and touched his sword. There was no elemental resonance. It's likely just an ordinary weapon made of common steel."
The person standing beside Ningguang was the same frail man from the dock.
However, while his appearance still seemed sickly, the energy in his eyes was anything but weak.
He didn't look the least bit fragile.
To uncover Bai Luo's secrets, Ningguang had gone to great lengths. This spy was someone she had borrowed from a trusted source, someone even Beidou didn't recognize.
This was to ensure Beidou wouldn't accidentally reveal anything.
When it came to fighting, Beidou was indeed skilled. But in other areas... just think about her infamous "drink more hot water" advice.
"You've done well. Leave the rest to Beidou. It's best if you disappear for a while. Coincidentally, your superior, Yelan, is in Sumeru. Deliver a letter for me."
Ningguang was a cautious person. She fully understood how dangerous the spy's actions had been.
Even though Battousai had always appeared harmless, to avoid any mishaps, she decided to send the spy away.
"Yes!"
The spy bowed and then exited the Jade Chamber.
Meanwhile, Ningguang, accompanied by Baiwen, Baishi, and Baixiao, stepped outside.
At night, Liyue was ablaze with lights.
Amidst the interconnected pavilions and towers, people were either watching operas, eating melons, or chasing after their children with feather dusters.
Though it seemed mundane, wasn't this the very mundanity everyone sought?
The purpose of the Qixing was to protect these countless lights, ensuring the flame of prosperity burned endlessly.
And on the sea illuminated by Liyue's lights, things were equally restless.
...
On the Alcor, the three-day-long feast had officially ended. However, to welcome the newly arrived Himura Kenshin, under the suggestion of the first mate, Juza, a new round of festivities had begun.
This bearded man was as straightforward as his appearance suggested.
If Beidou hadn't needed to discuss other matters with Bai Luo, Juza would likely have been dragging him into a drinking contest.
At that point, Bai Luo might have had to reenact his "leaking stomach" trick.
Inside the cabin, the sounds of the sailors' revelry on the deck could still be heard.
In truth, Teyvat had wood that could insulate sound, but this type of wood wasn't suitable for ships.
It wasn't that it was easily corroded by seawater, but rather that its soundproofing properties could delay critical actions during emergencies, leading to potential disasters.
Thus, only certain special passenger ships used this wood in their cabins, catering to guests who needed privacy for... particular activities.
"I've heard from Kazuha. You're in a hurry to return to Inazuma, right?"
Beidou was straightforward, unlike other leaders who might beat around the bush. She got straight to the point.
Perhaps because she felt this matter was important, she hadn't even brought her wine jug.
This was quite rare.
Even during business negotiations, Captain Beidou liked to take a sip or two.
"That's correct. There's an urgent matter in Inazuma that I must attend to as soon as possible. So, I'd appreciate it if Captain Beidou could help. As for the fare... I'll do my best to gather the funds."
Well, actually, he was just afraid of getting beaten up.
It wasn't as noble as he made it sound.
"Kazuha told me about your deeds. Since you saved him from the Raiden Shogun, you're a benefactor to the Alcor. Don't worry about the fare; I'll waive it entirely. However, the timing... I can't guarantee that."
Battousai's identity was no small matter. Without Ningguang's approval, Beidou would never let him leave.
Huh? A henpecked husband? What do you mean henpecked? This is called mutual respect between friends!
Besides, Ningguang was a generous patron, a big client.
What's wrong with giving a client some face?
Got a problem?
If you have a problem, come to the Alcor and discuss it in person! Captain Beidou is also skilled in the art of persuasion.
"If you could depart within two days, that would be ideal. Three days would also work, but please try not to exceed that. Otherwise, I'll have to find another ship."
After hearing Beidou's response, Bai Luo put on an anxious expression, as if he truly had urgent matters to attend to.
But... this anxiety wasn't entirely feigned.
He really was in a hurry.
Perhaps feeling that his words might have come off as rude, Bai Luo added, "My apologies, Captain Beidou. It's just that there's an urgent matter at home that can't be delayed."
"I understand. I'll do my best to negotiate with the client. After all, the Crux Fleet primarily transports goods. If the client isn't ready to move, we can't make the decision unilaterally."
After a moment of thought, Beidou gave her reply.
In truth, this was just a stalling tactic.
She needed to report this matter to Ningguang as soon as possible and get her decision.
Otherwise, if Battousai boarded another ship, who knows what complications might arise?
As the old saying goes, some powers are only reassuring when held in your own hands. If he were to leave Liyue on another ship and something unexpected happened, it would be too late for regrets.
So, even if they couldn't keep him here, they had to at least ensure they saw him off as he left Liyue and entered Inazuma.
"Then I'll leave it in your hands, Captain Beidou!"
Bai Luo bowed slightly, speaking with utmost sincerity.
"Don't mention it!"
Beidou said, instinctively reaching for the wine jug at her waist, only to realize belatedly that she had left it outside.
She subtly retracted her hand and continued, "By the way... why do you always wear that mask? Is there something you can't let others see? Forgive me for being so blunt, but with so many crew members on board, I have to ensure their safety. So, could you explain, Mr. Himura?"
"Ah, this? Well, I have two scars on my face. They're not very pleasant to look at, so I wear this cat mask to avoid startling people. After I wounded the Raiden Shogun, I became even more cautious about revealing my true face. I hope you understand, Captain Beidou. But if you'd like to see, I'm willing to show you."
As Bai Luo spoke, his hand moved to the mask.
And indeed, the faint outline of a cross-shaped scar could be seen beneath it.