"Poisoned? Are you certain?"
Yelan asked with a surprised expression. This was no laughing matter. Since Yuto's current status was Inazuma Regent, if his words were false, it would create suspicion of sowing discord.
"Yes, I can feel it. It seems to be a chronic toxin."
"Are you saying that Uncle Tian's recent lack of energy and feeling of powerlessness aren't due to his age, but rather someone poisoning him?
That can't be. The Tianquan is a very special position among the Liyue Qixing. Past Tianquan have rarely appeared in public, mostly offering advice from behind the scenes. Even when selecting a new Tianquan, candidates must try to avoid influence from various factions, and the assessment is relatively secretive.
One could say that Uncle Tian is the highest position our intelligence personnel can attain. Uncle Tian has served as Tianquan for decades; he is arguably the most seasoned intelligence officer. His energy might be lacking, but his years of professional training have made him extremely vigilant. Who could possibly poison him?
No, could there be a problem with one of the candidates? Has someone been bribed?"
"I wouldn't know about that. Anyway, I've told you what happened. It's easy to verify whether what I said is true or false; just have Baizhu from Bubu Pharmacy take a look. As for how to uncover the truth, that's your business."
"If this matter is true, I will investigate it thoroughly. If other forces want to meddle with the Qixing's positions, hmph! They are deluding themselves. However, for you to be so kind as to warn me, are you seeking some benefit?"
"What kind of person do you take me for?"
"A pervert who secretly photographs unconscious women!"
"Hey, hey, I've already returned the item to you. If you hadn't mentioned it, I would have almost forgotten."
"Hmph! Who knows if you still have any copies? Besides, you might forget this, but I'll never forget it in my entire life. I will get my revenge for this humiliation sooner or later."
"That's something to discuss when you become Tianquan. Ningguang's special intelligence officer, such an unofficial position, doesn't suit your status."
"I'll take that as a good omen!"
"Alright, to be honest, I don't really have any ulterior motives. It's just that I've been thrust into the role of Inazuma Regent, and I always try to seek more benefits for Inazuma in everything I do. Warning Uncle Tian is simply a gesture of goodwill, hoping that Ningguang can be more lenient in export trade. Inazuma is currently in a state of reconstruction."
"Oh, really? The Regent is quite dedicated, isn't he?"
Yelan was quite surprised by Yuto's answer and couldn't help but look at him again.
In her impression, Yuto was just a foreigner with suspicious origins, strange abilities, a frivolous demeanor, and a lustful heart but no courage. For an intelligence officer like her, Yuto was simply the most detestable type of person.
But now, Yuto had transformed into Inazuma Regent and boldly traveled to Liyue. Now he was very seriously trying to use Uncle Tian's matter to gain leverage in export trade.
This transformation made Yelan feel a bit dazed for a moment. Was this the different perspective a legitimate profession could bring?
"Alright, that's all I have to say. Believe it or not, I'm leaving."
"Wait, Regent, have you forgotten something?"
"Ah? Forgotten what?"
"The Regent really has a short memory for important things, doesn't he? You and I still have a promise between us. You told me to be patient, but within a few days, I found out you had secretly gone to Inazuma and stayed there for several months. I've been waiting for quite a while."
"Oh, I remember now. It's about your ancestor and the taiwei instrument, isn't it? Hmm, has it really been that long? Time flies so fast, but the timing is just right."
"What do you mean, 'timing is just right'?"
"It's about your ancestor. Actually, there's someone else also waiting for the right moment."
"Who?"
"Liyue's only remaining adeptus, the Vigilant Yaksha, Xiao."
"It's that adeptus? Wait, I remember now. I received intelligence before that you had a secret conversation with the Vigilant Yaksha at Wangsheng Inn for a period of time. Is that what this is about?"
"That's right. Lord Rex Lapis once had five Yaksha Generals who were responsible for eradicating evil spirits born from the remnants of Gods within Liyue. However, while eradicating these evil spirits, they themselves were tainted by karma, either falling into madness, fighting among themselves, or losing their memories.
The Vigilant Yaksha's elder brother, General Bosacius, lost his memory and wandered the lands of Liyue. By chance, during the cataclysm of five hundred years ago, he appeared in The Chasm."
"Wait, was the Nameless Yaksha mentioned in the records that Bosacius?"
"Exactly. The battle in The Chasm back then was extremely brutal. Countless monsters continuously crawled out from The Chasm, and the Millelith's ground defenses were on the verge of collapse.
At this critical moment, Bosacius and your ancestor, Boyang, activated the power of the taiwei instrument, sealing a large number of monsters and the surrounding Millelith underground, greatly alleviating the pressure on the surface battlefield and ultimately securing victory.
Unfortunately, those soldiers and Bosacius who were trapped underground fought a bloody battle with the monsters in a space with no exit, and ultimately all died, preventing the monsters from ever seeing the light of day again.
The Vigilant Yaksha's intention is simple: he wants to retrieve his elder brother's remains to bring himself closure. And your intention should also be clear: you want to retrieve the taiwei instrument left underground, right? If so, you two have the potential to cooperate."
"Are you suggesting that the Vigilant Yaksha should help me? How could I possibly have enough influence to ask an adeptus for help? After the battle with Osial, the relationship between Liyue Harbor and the adepti is very delicate. Even if Ningguang could intercede for me, it might not work. Can you persuade him?"
Yelan's gaze towards Yuto clearly held more hostility. If Liyue's adepti could be commanded by Inazuma Regent, the problem would be very serious.
"No, no, no, I cannot command Xiao, and you certainly can't either. So, there needs to be an intermediary to build a bridge for your cooperation. This is also why I've been making you two wait."
"An intermediary? Who?"
Yelan quickly pressed for an answer, but at this moment, Yuto, as if with an ulterior motive, pointed to the empty teacup, his eyes full of teasing.
Seeing this, Yelan suppressed her anger, took a deep breath, and put on a professional fake smile. She picked up the teapot and respectfully poured Yuto a cup of tea.
"Mr. Yuto, please help yourself~!"
Yuto slowly took a sip of tea to moisten his throat and said, "It's not just our delegation that has returned to Liyue from Inazuma; Lumine and Paimon have also returned."
Upon hearing these two familiar names, Yelan instantly understood. She exchanged glances with Yuto, and both of them shared a knowing smile.
-------------------------------
I've already posted the newest chapters on Patreon!
If you enjoy this story, come check them out and support me there too.
Here's the link: [patreon.com/TripleCrown07]