If there's a Rite of Descension, there must also be a Rite of Parting.
Another day passed, and Hu Tao arrived at the Jade Chamber, accompanied by a somewhat familiar-looking man.
"Hu Tao, the 77th-generation Director of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor, reporting for duty at Lady Ningguang's summons! Ah, the Jade Chamber is even more magnificent than I imagined!" Hu Tao declared with a beaming smile.
Qin Yu already knew from Ningguang that she would be inviting Hu Tao to discuss the Rite of Parting. What she hadn't expected was that Hu Tao would bring someone else with her.
With his black hair, golden eyes, composed demeanor, and upright posture, he exuded an extraordinary presence that marked him as anything but ordinary.
Qin Yu had occasionally glimpsed him at Wangsheng Funeral Parlor but had never spoken a word to him. Judging by his attire, he was likely an Honorary Advisor rather than one of the parlor's ritual attendants, who typically wore uniforms.
As Hu Tao strode over, Qin Yu wondered what she was about to do. To her surprise, Hu Tao suddenly embraced her.
Waaah?!
"Fishy Treasure is looking quite lively today, Director Hu Tao is relieved!"
Evaluation: D (Hu Tao)
Wait, don't just hug me out of nowhere! There are other people here! Qin Yu thought frantically, quickly glancing at Ningguang.
Ningguang's gaze held a profound meaning.
"Your relationship is even closer than I anticipated," she said, a hint of displeasure in her voice.
Hu Tao released Qin Yu, winking playfully. "Of course! We're the closest of friends, inseparable to the point of being zero distance apart, right, Fishy Treasure?"
I told her not to say weird things or do weird stuff... Qin Yu sighed inwardly.
"Mm-hmm."
A vague acknowledgment was all that was needed.
At least for now, their relationship hadn't shown any negative signs. So, a casual admission might be acceptable. But "zero distance"? That was a clear implication...
Qin Yu's face flushed slightly as the implication dawned on her.
Evaluation: C- (Hu Tao)
Ningguang's mood darkened another notch, though she didn't let it show.
"Now that the pleasantries are out of the way, let's get down to business. But before we begin, could you please introduce the gentleman accompanying Director Hu Tao to my companions?" Ningguang asked, mindful of Qin Yu's presence.
"Mm, of course. Zhongli, Honorary Advisor to Wangsheng Funeral Parlor. I've joined the Director's visit to discuss the Rite of Parting," Zhongli replied calmly.
Hu Tao chimed in, "Zhongli knows a lot, especially about those weird ancient things."
Qin Yu observed Zhongli. The moment their eyes briefly met, she felt an inexplicable surge of nervousness. He nodded slightly in greeting, and she forced a smile in return.
He's no ordinary man... It's a wonder Hu Tao even knows him.
No, Hu Tao herself is no simple matter, in any sense of the word.
So, this is actually pretty normal?
Hu Tao continued, "He claims to 'know a thing or two' about rituals. While I here am exceptionally clever, even I have gaps in my knowledge. This time we're sending off the ancestor of all Adepti, so we need to be extra careful, with the utmost focus and diligence."
"Since he said he was up to the task, I brought him along."
Leaning back in her chair, Ningguang said slowly, "I've heard Mr. Zhongli is indeed exceptionally knowledgeable, possessing expertise in matters unknown to others. But the Rite of Parting is of paramount importance. Are you truly capable of handling it?"
"If you lack trust, let's establish a Contract first," Zhongli replied.
Then he added, "Besides, I believe this aligns perfectly with the Qixing's intentions?"
"...Heh, that's actually true. I heard the Fatui plan to offer you a substantial sum to fund the Rite of Parting, correct?"
Hu Tao nodded. "As expected of you, Lady Ningguang—your intelligence network is unparalleled! Yes, that's exactly it. They've set their sights on our time-honored establishment."
"Very well. Qin Yu, bring the Contract document."
"Understood."
Qin Yu handed Hu Tao the contract Ningguang had prepared in advance.
"You want me to sign this?" Hu Tao asked with a sigh. "Fine, I guess. Zhongli, you'd better bring honor to our parlor and attract more clients!" After reviewing the terms and finding no issues, she signed the document.
With this, the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor officially gained the Qixing's approval to prepare the Rite of Parting.
The trio then discussed the specific arrangements for the Rite of Parting.
Hu Tao intended to completely delegate the task to Zhongli, acting as a hands-off manager. However, Zhongli seemed solely focused on the Rite of Parting itself, showing no concern for the Fatui's activities.
According to him, countless Adepti had passed away throughout Liyue's history. In each case, they had always meticulously performed the Rite of Parting first, before addressing any other matters.
It did feel somewhat like putting the cart before the horse.
But this time is different, Qin Yu thought. The deceased is Rex Lapis, and the Fatui are secretly plotting behind the scenes.
After finalizing the Rite of Parting arrangements, Hu Tao and Zhongli bid farewell.
As they were leaving, Hu Tao asked, "When will Fishy Treasure come play in my room again? I've been looking forward to it day and night!"
"N-next time, maybe? I've been really busy lately..." Qin Yu stammered.
Didn't I tell you not to say things like that in public? Are you doing this on purpose?
Qin Yu's vague response didn't provoke Hu Tao's displeasure. Instead, she winked.
"I'll be waiting for you~" With those words, she departed.
...So exhausting.
Hu Tao knew Qin Yu was putting on an act, yet Qin Yu still had to play along.
A sense of disharmony permeated her entire being.
If taking off her mask to face Hu Tao felt impossible, then wearing it while Hu Tao knew her true face also felt deeply uncomfortable.
This discomfort was one of the consequences of their shifting relationship.
In the past, Qin Yu had believed she could reject Hu Tao's proposal, continue wearing her mask, and maintain the facade without revealing her true self. Now, however, she realized how difficult that would be.
"Qin Yu."
"Hmm?"
"...Never mind."
Qin Yu desperately wanted to ask Hu Tao what she had meant by "going to her room to play." Had it happened on a rest day?
She was deeply concerned, but she knew she shouldn't interfere in Qin Yu's personal relationships unless she had a valid reason to intervene.
So, she held her tongue.
"Is Lady Ningguang feeling tired?" Qin Yu asked, puzzled.
Ningguang sighed softly. "A little. I haven't tossed and turned so restlessly, unable to sleep, in a long time. The Geo Archon's passing hasn't caused any major disruptions yet, but this is just the beginning..."
"Indeed, all sorts of problems will arise in the future," Qin Yu agreed.
Not to mention this year's God's Edict hadn't been issued yet, leaving Liyue without direction.
Ningguang's workload is probably going to skyrocket, Qin Yu thought.
And mine too, since I'm her personal maid and handle all sorts of miscellaneous tasks... Ugh, just thinking about it is exhausting.
Better not dwell on the future.
Qin Yu pondered further. If Ningguang is so tired, and my hands seem to have some sort of magical property, maybe I should put them to good use.
She opened the Production Skill Tree and quickly scanned through it.
[ Massage Master ]—that was it!
[ Massage Master 1 ]—Grants the supplementary skill [ Massage Therapy ], restoring 5% of the target's stamina. Each target can only receive this treatment once per day. Improves massage techniques.
Five thousand points—a bargain.
The "deep-pocketed" Qin Yu immediately unlocked the skill and confidently approached Ningguang from behind, gently placing her hands on her shoulders.
"If you're tired, I'll give you a massage!"
"A massage? Very well."
"Then I'll begin."
Kneading, pressing, stroking... Qin Yu applied just the right amount of pressure as she massaged Ningguang. Waves of warmth spread through Ningguang's body as she closed her eyes and exhaled softly.
"Excellent technique," Ningguang remarked. "Have you been trained?"
"Just a little," Qin Yu replied.
Ningguang nodded slightly, satisfied. "Very relaxing. Continue."
Evaluation: D
"Of course, Lady Ningguang. Your body is even stiffer than I imagined. While these are exceptional times, I still believe you should pay more attention to your physical well-being."
Ningguang teased, "You've been saying that every day lately. Such a worrywart maid."
Of course I'm worried! Otherwise, I'll have to take care of you later, Qin Yu thought.
But despite her thoughts, she wondered if she was being overly nagging. If I keep saying this, Ningguang might get annoyed. I should tone it down in the future.
Instead, she resolved to take action.
"Speaking of which, the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor is being funded by the Fatui... Lady Ningguang, are you planning to do anything about it?" Qin Yu asked casually.
"Already done," Ningguang replied, enjoying the massage.
"Really?"
Ningguang continued, enjoying the massage. "A proper trap needs to create the illusion of opportunity. If the Rite of Parting had been organized by the Qixing, the Fatui would have been far more cautious, making it harder to lure them out."
"But if it appears semi-official... they'll see an opportunity to exploit."
"You mean they intend to use the Rite of Parting to locate Rex Lapis' Exuvia?" Qin Yu asked.
"Roughly. But the main goal is to buy us time to fully take control of Liyue."
Ningguang had already ordered a complete information blackout regarding the Rite of Parting, forbidding anyone from viewing Rex Lapis' Exuvia. Within this newly erected wall, a small hole remained.
This would lure the Fatui to infiltrate, allowing the Qixing to switch from defense to offense and capture them all in one fell swoop.
Having grasped this, Qin Yu couldn't help but focus on another matter.
"And what about the Sigil of Permission...?"
"Indeed, that's concerning. According to our informants, they are indeed attempting to replicate the talismans. The Sigil of Permission is merely one of their products."
Qin Yu asked, puzzled, "Are they planning to use them as weapons?"
"No. As Shenhe said, imitations can never match the power of the originals. If these copies only possess exorcism abilities without the ability to truly banish evil, they would be rather ineffective as weapons—especially for the Fatui."
Though Qin Yu had never seen them in person, intelligence reports indicated that the Fatui's weapons were highly sophisticated and capable of utilizing specific elemental attacks.
The replicated Talismans were indeed unsuitable as weapons against such adversaries.
"Then what exactly are they planning? Just research?" Qin Yu asked again.
"While these Talismans can't be used as weapons, the power imbued within them should be able to activate certain Adeptus mechanisms... or even break seals."
"Seals?"
Ningguang nodded lightly. "Indeed. As you know, during the Archon War, the Geo Archon led the Adepti and humans to conquer all directions, defeating countless enemies. He also suppressed a considerable number of Archons beneath his Geo Spears."
"The topography of Guyun Stone Forest isn't natural; it was formed by the Geo Spears the Geo Archon cast down."
Qin Yu said uneasily, "So, there's a suppressed God beneath Guyun Stone Forest?"
"Yes, most likely."
Rex Lapis is gone now. Will those things break free? But they're sealed, so it should be fine—ah... Qin Yu suddenly remembered the Fatui.
"Could the Fatui be planning to break the seals?"
"Who knows? It never hurts to prepare for the worst. Still... the Adepti's reaction has been remarkably restrained. I expected them to come here directly."
Qin Yu smiled. "I've met Cloud Retainer before. She's actually quite approachable. They must have their own reasons for acting this way."
"Hmm... you're right."
As for the golden-haired Traveler, Wangshu Inn's informant reported that they had gone to Jueyun Karst and should be returning to Liyue Port today.
Even if she walked in openly now, she wouldn't be suspected as a suspicious individual—all thanks to Ningguang's arrangements. This would prevent unnecessary chaos.
Qin Yu shifted her thoughts.
No need to dwell on these matters during her break.
Lowering her head, Qin Yu looked at Ningguang—more precisely, at her ear. She recalled all the times she had been... teased by Ningguang in various ways.
With a mix of "wanting to poke a friend from behind" and "this is the perfect opportunity to scare Ningguang as revenge," Qin Yu leaned in slowly and brought her lips close to Ningguang's ear.
Then, she blew a soft puff of air.
Ningguang was still deep in thought when a peculiar tickle flashed across her ear.
Evaluation: C-
Slightly startled, she opened her eyes, intending to ask Qin Yu why she had done that. But Qin Yu might have been waiting for just such a question.
Realizing this, Ningguang smiled faintly and reached out to gently caress Qin Yu's cheek.
"What's this? Trying to play a prank on me?" she asked.
She wasn't even scared! Disappointed but undeterred, Qin Yu quickly laughed. "Not at all, Lady Ningguang! There was just a noticeable bit of dust on your ear. I was trying to blow it away."
"Ah, I see. Though if you wanted to prank me, that would be fine too. I don't mind."
Really?
Qin Yu wasn't entirely convinced, but... there was no harm in trying.
I have to scare Lady Ningguang at least once!
Gathering her courage, Qin Yu pondered briefly before deciding on her approach. Leaning in so close that her lips nearly brushed Ningguang's ear, she whispered softly:
"Lady Ningguang, actually... I have feelings for you."
Ningguang's attention was immediately drawn in, eager to hear the rest. Under the comforting warmth of Qin Yu's breath, she hoped the words would carry some special significance.
Enough to make her intervene in Qin Yu's personal affairs and ask what she had done in Hu Tao's room.
But just then, Qin Yu suddenly blew another breath.
"Ah!" Ningguang exclaimed, startled.
Qin Yu froze, hearing Ningguang make such a sound for the first time. Though it was barely audible, at such close range, there was no mistaking it.
"Lady Ningguang's voice was quite cute just now," Qin Yu teased deliberately.
Evaluation: C+
Ningguang turned her reddening face away, realizing she'd fallen for Qin Yu's prank. A strange irritation surged through her, refusing to subside.
"Qin Yu."
"Hmm?" Qin Yu replied cheerfully, basking in the satisfaction of her successful prank.
The feeling of getting revenge wasn't bad at all!
Ningguang stood up and gestured, "Sit here."
"Eh? W-why? Isn't this Lady Ningguang's seat?" Qin Yu stammered.
"Consider it an order."
Why does Lady Ningguang seem so upset?
Could it be my prank went too far? Did it? Thinking about it, maybe a little, but she wouldn't really be angry, would she? Qin Yu uneasily took the seat.
"I'm sorry, Lady Ningguang. My prank was a bit much."
Could she be angry with me? No, I need to think of a way to make amends...
Just as Qin Yu was racking her brain for a solution, Ningguang leaned down, her usual closeness pressing against Qin Yu's ear.
"You're truly adorable."
Whoa, what's with the sudden compliment?!
Evaluation: B
Qin Yu's face flushed crimson. She lowered her head, confused. "May I ask what this is about?"
"Your hair is so silky. Your skin is soft, supple, and remarkably translucent. Did you know how easily your shyness shows?" Ningguang murmured, stroking the areas she described.
Evaluation: A-
Qin Yu involuntarily held her breath, her thoughts spinning into chaos. Ningguang's voice and touch filled her with an inexplicable sense of comfort.
"I-is that so?"
"Exactly. It's quite obvious. And personally, I find it quite charming."
No, no, no! This isn't good at all!
But it was her nature, and she couldn't change it. How frustrating.
Ningguang gently placed her fingers on Qin Yu's chin, tilting her face up.
"Your eyelashes are so long, and your eyes are so beautiful."
What is she doing? Qin Yu was utterly bewildered. Part of her wished Ningguang would stop, while another part basked in the praise, growing increasingly delighted.
Evaluation: A+
Ningguang's hand glided lightly across Qin Yu's face, tracing its way down to her collarbone.
"Even more commendable is your loyalty to me," Ningguang said with a gentle and radiant smile. "You're rapidly catching up to me, understanding me, feeling for me, striving and progressing for my sake. Until now, I've never felt even the slightest dissatisfaction with you."
Qin Yu's chest warmed, but she immediately reminded herself, This is just for the Points!
Evaluation: S
Don't pop up again.
"But—"
Qin Yu's heart skipped a beat. A twist at this moment? She felt a surge of unease.
"At this very moment, there is one thing about you that dissatisfies me."
These were the words she least wanted to hear.
Qin Yu felt her fingertips grow cold and couldn't help but ask, "What is it? I... I'll correct it."
"It's..."
"It's what?"
Ningguang suddenly blew a breath into her ear.
"Ah!?" Qin Yu startled violently.
Just as she was about to protest, Ningguang revealed a childlike grin. "Just kidding! That was a prank—a little payback. I've always been perfectly satisfied with you."
"So, from now on as well... Qin Yu?"
Before she could finish, Ningguang noticed tears welling up in Qin Yu's eyes, the droplets streaking down her face.
Crying? Ningguang hadn't anticipated such a reaction. Even she, usually composed in the face of sudden situations, felt momentarily at a loss.
"I'm sorry, did I say too much? I'm not dissatisfied with you," Ningguang reassured her.
"Really?"
"Absolutely no falsehoods."
"...Hmm."
That's good then.
Qin Yu felt deeply embarrassed. After a series of frantic, cat-like swipes to wipe away her tears, she fell silent, thinking, This is so awful and troublesome.
I shouldn't be making her worry like this.
And to cry just because she said she was "dissatisfied"... wouldn't Ningguang think I'm burdensome and demanding?
She might even say, "Your mental fortitude is lacking."
Ningguang had a strict side. She didn't want a mere decorative vase; she wanted the Qin Yu who would constantly improve, strive, and catch up to her.
In that sense, she desired a Qin Yu who was unwavering and resilient—someone who wouldn't break down in tears, especially for such a trivial reason.
Utterly disastrous.
While Qin Yu was sinking into despondency, Ningguang found this vulnerable side of her utterly endearing.
Uncontrollably, Ningguang pressed a kiss to Qin Yu's cheek.
Evaluation: SS-
"Lady Ningguang?" Qin Yu asked, her face flushing crimson again, bewildered.
Ningguang simply smiled. "I never imagined you'd cry over a single comment about my dissatisfaction."
Hearing that, Qin Yu's anger flared anew.
Though it wasn't exactly a good thing, being tricked still stung. She muttered to herself repeatedly, trying to dissipate the rising displeasure.
"Does Lady Ningguang think I'm... no good this way?" Qin Yu asked anxiously.
"It does present some complications," Ningguang replied.
Qin Yu felt a sharp pang in her heart.
"However, it's also a perfect demonstration of your loyalty. I can accept it," Ningguang said with a gentle smile.
She can actually accept it?
Qin Yu felt much relieved. "Thank you... I know I might displease Lady Ningguang in the future. While I'm glad you can accept me, I understand that this kind of behavior isn't ideal."
She says she can accept it, but if I cry two or three more times, she'll surely grow impatient, right?
Hmph, then I just won't cry.
Probably.
"It's a bit troublesome, but not inherently bad. The most important thing is—why you're crying. If you were throwing a childish tantrum, that would naturally be inappropriate. But you shed tears because of the bond between us."
Stop overanalyzing! Those were just... my eyes sweating.
Qin Yu didn't want to hear Ningguang's analysis, finding it too embarrassing. She couldn't help but lower her head.
But Ningguang gently lifted her chin with her index finger, forcing her to look up.
"You don't want to hear me say I'm dissatisfied with you, do you?"
Though deeply reluctant, Qin Yu could only murmur her assent.
"Mmm..."
Ningguang smiled contentedly. "Just as I thought. That's precisely why I don't mind at all. On the contrary, seeing you shed tears over this... it makes you all the more endearing."
Ha!?
Qin Yu was stunned, then immediately grew wary.
Does Ningguang have some kind of strange fetish?!
"Qin Yu, stay by my side forever," Ningguang said softly.
"Forever?"
"Yes, forever. Remain as someone close to me, standing in the same place as I do."
Evaluation: SS+
It was certainly a little flattering, but "forever" was far too... Qin Yu couldn't imagine what she would be like in a few years; she could only focus on the present and the near future.
"That's too far into the future," Qin Yu replied diplomatically.
"I see."
Ningguang showed no disappointment.
She had merely expressed her intentions. Whether Qin Yu accepted now or not was irrelevant. She would ensure Qin Yu remained by her side.
"Give me another massage," Ningguang said.
This was something Qin Yu could accept.
"Then, Lady Ningguang, please sit back down. I'll work from the front... There, please extend your hand." Qin Yu pulled up a stool, sat down, and gestured for Ningguang to extend her hand.
Watching Qin Yu's focused expression and feeling the soothing massage of her palm, Ningguang recalled the endearing way Qin Yu had behaved earlier. An indescribable emotion surged within her.
Unable to fully grasp it, Ningguang suppressed the feeling.
A strange feeling.
"Could you massage me again when you have time later?" Ningguang asked with a gentle smile, partly to distract herself and partly because she genuinely wanted to.
Dream on.
...Depends on my mood, Qin Yu thought.