In the blink of an eye, Shajin flickered like golden light, weaving effortlessly through the bustling streets and alleys of Liyue.
His figure next appeared at the Yun-Han Opera House, a sanctuary where art and beauty intertwined.
The doors of the theater slowly opened before him, like the threshold to another world, transporting him from the noisy mortal realm into a dreamlike stage of fantasy.
No sooner had he stepped inside than the lilting arias and flowing melodies washed over him. The music was like strands of living silk, gently woven into an invisible net that ensnared the hearts of every listener, drawing them in without resistance.
Following the sound, he soon spotted Yun Jin adorned in an exquisitely embroidered opera costume. The elaborate patterns shimmered under the lights, radiant like the brightest stars in the night sky.
Every movement—each raise of her hand, turn of her body, or step forward—carried a unique rhythm. Her gestures exuded a captivating stage presence, as though a gentle halo surrounded her, showcasing the full beauty of traditional opera.
Yun Jin's every motion was a blend of power and grace, like a celestial maiden stepping out of an ancient painting. Her elegant dance stirred the soul, drawing all who watched into the boundless ocean of operatic art.
When the performance ended, she slowly opened her eyes, still carrying the lingering emotion of her stage persona. Her gaze was deep and enchanting, like a pristine spring reflecting the joys and sorrows of the world.
Shajin applauded with a warm smile. His crisp claps echoed through the opera house—a clear, ringing tribute to Yun Jin's remarkable skill.
"Master Yun, your craft is even more refined than before~"
His tone brimmed with genuine admiration, his sincerity evident in every word.
A faint blush bloomed across Yun Jin's cheeks, soft and charming like peach blossoms in spring. But she quickly regained composure, offering a graceful thanks.
Shajin got straight to the point.
"I'm here to invite you to a banquet at the Jade Chamber for the Moonchase Festival. Do you have time to join us?"
A flicker of delight lit up Yun Jin's eyes, dazzling like a firework bursting in the night sky.
She nodded gently and replied in a soft voice, "I've no other plans today—perfect timing~"
Her voice carried the joy of a child anticipating a beloved gift. She was clearly excited for the event.
Shajin chuckled and teased, "Then I shall eagerly await your presence, Master Yun~"
Yun Jin playfully tapped her fist against his chest, the gesture lighthearted and endearing.
Without lingering further, Shajin's figure vanished in a flash of golden light, leaving behind only a breeze that fluttered the curtains of the opera house.
...
A moment later, he reappeared in front of Wanmin Restaurant.
Even before stepping inside, the rich aroma of food surged out, like an invisible hand gently tugging at one's senses.
The restaurant was alive with voices and laughter, a vibrant symphony of daily life infused with warmth and humanity.
Xiangling was hard at work in the kitchen. Flames blazed under the stove, casting a warm glow across her face. Her bangs were damp with sweat, a few strands sticking to her forehead—but it didn't slow her down one bit as she expertly stirred the dishes.
Her focus was Intense, unwavering. The wok and spatula moved in perfect rhythm, as if she were conducting a sacred culinary ritual. In that moment, it felt like her entire world was contained within the borders of that stove.
Seeing Shajin arrive, Xiangling quickly paused, wiped her hands on her apron, and came out to greet him.
Shajin briefly explained the reason for his visit. Xiangling's brow furrowed slightly, a trace of difficulty showing in her expression.
"Um, Shajin… things are really hectic here today. I don't think I can get away…"
Just then, her father, Master Mao, walked over with steady steps and a warm, broad smile.
He gently patted Xiangling's shoulder, his eyes full of kindness and support.
"Xiangling, I can handle things here just fine."
He raised his right hand, gave a big thumbs-up, and flashed a gleaming white smile as he laughed heartily.
"Go on and enjoy yourself!"
Xiangling's eyes welled up with tears. She covered her mouth, her voice trembling.
"D-Dad…"
Master Mao turned to the full dining hall and called out with booming cheer:
"Dear guests! Tonight, your meals are in the hands of Master Mao!"
His voice rang with confidence and energy, instantly lifting the atmosphere. Applause and cheers erupted from the customers.
Shajin scratched his head beside them. He wasn't quite sure why Master Mao had suddenly gotten so fired up, but hey—if Xiangling and Guoba could come, that was good enough for him.
...
After a quick regroup, Shajin's figure flashed once more, this time appearing atop the roof of Wangshu Inn.
A gentle breeze brushed by, like nature's soft caress. Sunlight spilled quietly across the rooftop like golden silk, casting a tranquil glow and filling the air with a serene, distant calm.
Just as he steadied himself, a cool, familiar voice suddenly pierced the silence like a shadow come to life.
"What do you want with me?"
Shajin turned toward the sound and saw, not far off, a young man standing silently.
He wore a ceremonial mask—the Nuo mask—its cold gleam in the sunlight exuding an aura both mysterious and powerful. He seemed at once part of the world around him and utterly apart from it.
It was none other than the famed guardian of Liyue, feared by all demons—the Vigilant Yaksha, Xiao.
Shajin's lips curled into a sly smile.
Tonight's banquet was about to get a lot more interesting with such special guests attending.
He waved and asked cheerfully, "Xiao, want to join the Moonchase Festival banquet at the Jade Chamber?"
Xiao wasn't fond of lively gatherings. He opened his mouth to refuse, just beginning to say, "No, I—"
But Shajin cut him off immediately, a mischievous glint in his eye.
"Morax will be there too~"
The "no" that Xiao was about to voice froze in his throat. His mouth twitched.
This insufferable trickster…
With a long-suffering sigh, he finally relented.
"I… I'll go."
Shajin waved with a grin.
"See you there then~"
Silence returned to the rooftop, broken only by the soft sigh of the vigilant Yaksha, drifting faintly through the air.
_
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