"Her Excellency, this is the research material we found from Byakuyakoku regarding the Bathysmal Vishaps."
After speaking, Gorou handed the materials in his hand to Sangonomiya Kokomi, who began to study them carefully.
Over the past few days, they had finally figured out the identities of these undead. They were all people from Byakuyakoku from thousands of years ago, and also their ancestors.
Sure enough, just as Sangonomiya Kokomi had speculated, after the subsequent search by the Watatsumi Army on Watatsumi Island, more Byakuyakoku people who had lost their memories were found one after another.
At this moment, Sangonomiya Kokomi also discovered another thing: the stronger a person's power, the less memory they lost!
But this was also relative, just like the first woman they encountered, who only vaguely remembered that she still had something left unfinished.
Until, a man named Aberaku appeared. He had retained a full ten percent of his memories!
When the other people of Byakuyakoku saw Aberaku, they immediately knelt to the ground to prostrate themselves in worship.
Many did not even know why they were making such a gesture, only a few of them regained some memories and called the man the "Sage".
When Sangonomiya Kokomi and the others learned that the "Dainichi Mikoshi", which lit up the entire Enkanomiya, was created by Aberaku, they also realized the weight of the title "Sage".
Because Aberaku seemed to have just returned to this world and his memories were still somewhat chaotic, Sangonomiya Kokomi did not immediately press him with questions, but instead let him go to a quiet place to rest.
After learning about Aberaku's deeds, everyone developed a deep respect for this man.
Without him, there would have been no Dainichi Mikoshi. Without the Dainichi Mikoshi, their ancestors might have been hunted to extinction by the Bathysmal Vishaps, and the current people of Watatsumi Island would not even exist.
After meeting Aberaku, a few people's memories recovered slightly, helping Gorou find several places that the Watatsumi Army had never explored, and the data this time was obtained from one of those places.
The data was clearly recording how to master the power of the Bathysmal Vishap!
Sangonomiya Kokomi quickly finished reading the content. She thought it should have been just an experiment abandoned because the wrong direction was chosen, but she never expected that the research direction was actually correct and had even been completed; it was just that it was a little too crazy.
Grant humans the bloodline of the Bathysmal Vishap, so as to master the power of the Bathysmal Vishap.
There was even a living example, which was Tsumi, who wore a mask and pretended to be a miko of Watatsumi Island after the anomaly appeared in Enkanomiya!
Of course, Tsumi was actually created by God Orobashi. His original intention was to let humans and Bathysmal Vishaps understand each other, but it eventually failed.
As for why this research was not continued back then, perhaps it was also related to this matter.
At that time, God Orobashi had already arrived at Enkanomiya and became the God who sheltered the last group of Byakuyakoku people. Out of respect and faith in the God, it was not impossible to give up on this research.
Later, because all the Byakuyakoku people came to Watatsumi Island and became the people of Watatsumi Island, fewer and fewer people knew about this research until it was completely forgotten.
After putting down the research data in her hand, Sangonomiya Kokomi thought for a long time and finally slowly spoke.
"This research data is truly too precious. It can not only allow ordinary people to have powerful strength, but also solve the problem of resource shortage."
"The biggest difficulty the people of Watatsumi Island face today is that the land on Watatsumi Island is not suitable for cultivation, resulting in everyone not having enough food to eat and warm clothes to wear."
"With the existence of merchant caravans now, Watatsumi Island can sell pearls in exchange for some materials, so the situation is slightly better, but in the past, everyone spent all their effort just to survive."
"Bathysmal Vishaps can absorb the free energy in the ocean, allowing them to maintain the normal operation of their lives without needing much food supplement. If ordinary people possess a part of the Bathysmal Vishap's bloodline, they will have the possibility to survive in extreme environments..."
"The person who completed this research back then must have been a genius, and a bold and mad genius at that!"
Sangonomiya Kokomi exclaimed from the bottom of her heart. This research data was like timely rain for the people of Watatsumi Island today.
If Watatsumi Island was unsuitable for cultivation, then Enkanomiya was completely unsuitable for human survival. It was almost impossible to grow anything here, and Sangonomiya Kokomi could hardly imagine how people survived back then.
Even in such a harsh survival environment, internal corruption, power struggles, and infighting still occurred. One could only say that human nature's flaws have never changed over thousands of years.
At this moment, Sangonomiya Kokomi looked at Gorou again and asked.
"Was the place where this research data appeared the one the young woman named 'Yue' led you to?"
The young woman Sangonomiya Kokomi was referring to was the one they had met initially.
After hearing Sangonomiya Kokomi's words, Gorou nodded.
"That is correct, Lady Sangonomiya. Miss Yue seems very familiar with that place. She might have been one of the researchers back then."
"Hmm, Gorou, your assumption is likely correct. We can show her more things from that place; it would be great if she could remember more."
Sangonomiya Kokomi pointed to the research materials.
"Although we have acquired the method to extract Bathysmal Vishap blood and inject it into a human body, we have never actually performed the procedure. This could lead to unexpected outcomes. However, if we have her complete this task, we can minimize the risks."
Upon hearing Kokomi's words, a look of hesitation crossed Gorou's face. After a moment of silence, he asked, "Lady Sangonomiya, are we truly going to proceed with this research?"
"The records state that injecting Bathysmal Vishap blood into a human body may cause a loss of humanity, leading to cold-blooded bloodthirst, or even a cognitive shift where the subject completely perceives themselves as a Vishap."
Sangonomiya Kokomi nodded.
"I've read that as well. But Gorou, you may not have noticed, but such conditions only occur when the Bathysmal Vishap blood makes up at least thirty percent of the body. If the concentration is only ten percent, or even five, I believe any side effects would be extremely minimal, even if they do exist."
"Of course, the specific details still require further study, which is why we need a professional."
"I'm not trying to turn the soldiers of Watatsumi Island into powerful Vishap warriors. I'm merely interested in the Bathysmal Vishaps' incredible environmental adaptation and survival abilities. This research could help the people of Watatsumi Island stop worrying about their daily survival."
"Furthermore, if we're ever forced to remain in Enkanomiya for an extended period, we'll finally be able to launch counter-attacks with confidence."
Hearing Sangonomiya Kokomi's words, Gorou's face lit up with admiration.
"Yes, Lady Sangonomiya! I'll do my utmost to help Miss Yue recover her memories!"
Though the weight of his new responsibility pressed heavily upon him, Gorou felt a surge of exhilaration.
He alone knew the toll Sangonomiya Kokomi had taken on herself for Watatsumi Island, how physically and mentally exhausted she was. Even with her best efforts, she had only barely kept the people from starving, offering no real hope for the future.
The root cause of Watatsumi Island's problems remained unsolved, and war with the Shogunate was bound to break out again sooner or later—and it would be like throwing eggs against rocks.
But now, they finally saw a glimmer of hope for a complete solution. Gorou could only imagine how thrilled Sangonomiya Kokomi must be at this moment.
"Mhm."
Sangonomiya Kokomi nodded, then rose to her feet.
"I'll go to Watatsumi Island to assess the current situation. Gorou, you must not mention this to anyone."
Hearing Kokomi's words, Gorou's heart jolted, and he quickly tried to dissuade her.
"Lady Sangonomiya, let me do this!"
Kokomi shook her head, rejecting his offer.
"No, I should be the one to go. Have faith in my abilities; I am no defenseless commoner who needs your constant protection."
Gorou wanted to protest further, but seeing the resolute expression on Kokomi's face, he finally gave up.
"I understand, Lady Sangonomiya. Please, be extremely careful."
"I will help cover your tracks."
"Yes, I'll leave things here to you, Gorou."
Kokomi nodded, then turned and walked away.
Aberaku's sudden reappearance had given Kokomi a faint sense of foreboding. This was why she had decided to return to Watatsumi Island, and perhaps even Yashiori Island, to investigate personally. It was also the reason she refused to let Gorou risk going with her.
Is it possible for a god to be resurrected?
Kokomi pondered the question as she walked, until she reached the entrance to Enkanomiya. She looked up at the distant surface.
Even if a god could be resurrected, it would surely require an immense price, she murmured to herself, as if she had already found the answer.
But if that were the case, there probably wouldn't be much time left.
Kokomi shook her head, then channeled her coral power to lift her body, swiftly ascending. In an instant, her figure vanished from Enkanomiya.
-
"Monsieur Neuvillette, we meet again."
"I imagine Monsieur Neuvillette never expected that I would be the one representing the Fatui to negotiate with you."
Inside the meeting room, Neuvillette looked at "The Knave" Arlecchino sitting opposite him and spoke slowly.
"Indeed, I thought our previous meeting would be our last."
Neuvillette's gaze at Arlecchino was extremely complicated. After all, she was still on Fontaine's wanted list, yet now she had brazenly entered Fontaine as a diplomat to negotiate with him. It could only be said that she knew his weaknesses very well.
Neuvillette hoped to unite all the nations of Teyvat to jointly face the upcoming Dark Apocalypse, so he could not overly offend Snezhnaya, which currently seemed to be the most powerful. This was also why his actions to capture Dottore were carried out in secret, as he could not tear his face with them yet.
Furina and Focalors were also attending this diplomatic meeting. They were not very clear about Neuvillette's next plan, but their attitudes toward Arlecchino were equally conflicted.
In the end, they both looked expectantly at Neuvillette, instantly making him feel even more pressure.
"Actually, the reason I came is that there are still some things left unfinished."
Arlecchino tapped her thigh rhythmically with her fingers and spoke faintly.
"In fact, many of the children in the House of the Hearth do not enjoy their current life of living in fear. Therefore, I hope that after they are rendered harmless, the Chief Justice can grant them a chance at a new life."
"Rendered harmless?"
"That is, erasing their past memories, so they can return to the sunlight again."
"In return, I will promise Monsieur Neuvillette, as well as Lady Furina and Lady Focalors, that the House of the Hearth will no longer conduct secret operations in Fontaine privately. If there is anything the House of the Hearth can help with, we will do our best."
After hearing Arlecchino's words, Neuvillette pondered for a moment and nodded in agreement with Arlecchino's proposal.
"However, I need to confirm that they are truly rendered harmless, rather than another means for the House of the Hearth to infiltrate Fontaine from within."
"Of course, time will prove everything, Monsieur Neuvillette."
"I am well aware of your strength, so I have no intention of becoming your enemy."
"We have a foundation of cooperation from before, so I believe this trust can be rebuilt quickly."
After speaking, Arlecchino paused and then changed the subject.
"Next, we should discuss the ransom for one of my reckless colleagues."
"Monsieur Neuvillette, please state the compensation you require directly. I will do my best to negotiate with them on your behalf."
After hearing Arlecchino's words, the three of them, Neuvillette included, were all stunned.
Especially Neuvillette, whose heart was filled with complaints that he simply couldn't help but vent.
Hold on, are you three all rebels?
Instead of thinking about saving Snezhnaya some money, you're all trying to secure the maximum interests for Fontaine.
Neuvillette thought it over again. Dottore wanted to prove his worth, Alain wanted to live a better life, and as for Arlecchino, her motivations were likely still tied to compensation for that previous incident.
All your reasons seem quite justified. The Fatui are incredibly lucky to have recruited you three!
This left Neuvillette in a bit of an awkward position. He had originally planned to make some unreasonable demands and then stall for as much time as possible before Alain was redeemed. This would allow Rene to use that time to convince Alain to stay in Fontaine of his own free will and "shine and radiate" for the nation.
But Arlecchino had stated she would do her utmost to negotiate for him without even asking about the terms, which left him at a loss for words.
"Perhaps Ms. Arlecchino could return to the House of the Hearth for the time being? I will send you the detailed list in a few days."
In the end, Neuvillette opted for a detour. The blueprint Rene had drawn for him was simply too alluring. Today, even if the Cryo Archon herself were to come, he would still keep Sandrone for a while longer.
"That works. I have indeed gone a long time without seeing Lyney and the others. I wonder if they have been causing Monsieur Neuvillette any trouble with his work during this time."
After hearing Neuvillette's words, Arlecchino nodded and stood up.
Seeing Arlecchino's movement, the three of them, Neuvillette included, also hurriedly stood up.
"Not at all. On the contrary, Lyney and the others have helped me a great deal," Neuvillette replied.
"In that case, I will take my leave."
"I will await Monsieur Neuvillette's reply, hoping it will not be too long."
After speaking, Arlecchino prepared to turn and leave, but Neuvillette called out to her.
"Wait a moment, Ms. Arlecchino, I have a gift for you."
"Oh?"
Hearing these words, a look of surprise appeared on Arlecchino's face.
Soon, Neuvillette handed the second-generation mobile phone recently developed by the Fontaine Research Institute to Arlecchino.
Under Neuvillette's explanation, Arlecchino quickly understood how to use the phone. After all, this was only the second generation, and its functions were very simple.
At this moment, Arlecchino looked at the phone in her hand, her eyes revealing a complex expression.
With her insight, she could naturally realize what the appearance of this thing meant, and at the same time, she knew that this was Neuvillette's explanation to her.
In fact, Arlecchino had little loyalty to the Fatui. The only thing she couldn't let go of was the children of the House of the Hearth. So, even if Neuvillette didn't explain it to her, it didn't matter. She didn't care about Sandrone's or even Dottore's situation.
Arlecchino knew that Dottore was also likely in Neuvillette's hands. After all, Neuvillette had gone to Sumeru before, and then Dottore disappeared.
Neuvillette's actions made Arlecchino feel his respect for her. Neuvillette treated her as a complete equal. As the Sovereign Dragon, this kindness from Neuvillette was frighteningly immense.
Arlecchino accepted the phone and smiled at Neuvillette once more.
"Thank you for the gift, Monsieur Neuvillette. I like it very much."
"I have also brought some unique Snezhnayan desserts. I will have them delivered soon, and I hope Monsieur Neuvillette will like them as well."
Hearing the word "desserts," Furina and Focalors' eyes instantly lit up, while Neuvillette's fist clenched.
These two only get so spirited when they hear about delicious food!
After taking a deep breath, Neuvillette looked at Arlecchino again and gently nodded.
"Alright, I should also go home and check on those naughty children."
"I haven't been home in so long, I hope the children haven't caused any trouble..."
"Dad!"
A figure suddenly dove into Neuvillette's arms, and Arlecchino's pupils instantly constricted.
So fast, she actually had no reaction at all!
Arlecchino narrowed her eyes and looked at the figure in Neuvillette's arms who was casting a curious glance this way. Only now did she realize what the other had just called out, and then she looked at Neuvillette with some astonishment.
"Monsieur Neuvillette, so you already have a wife?"
Good heavens, the child is already so big, yet she hadn't found a single trace of it before. Could her intelligence work have been such a failure?
Just as Neuvillette was about to explain, another figure brimming with life energy suddenly appeared on the scene.
When Apep appeared before Arlecchino, Arlecchino's body immediately tensed up. In that moment, she felt as if she were being stared down by a Tyrannosaurus Rex that could blot out the sun.
"I'm not that guy's wife! I have nothing to do with him!"
"You better watch your mouth, or I'll teach you a lesson!"
Apep stood with her hands on her hips, her face full of anger.