At noon, warm sunlight spilled across Sumeru City, brightening both the streets and the spirits of those walking them.
After leaving the technology exhibition hall, Nahida, Zhongli, and Shenhe went in search of Idris for lunch. They chose a bustling restaurant—one of the most popular spots in the city. Once seated, they waited for their meal, exchanging occasional remarks, though the atmosphere remained calm rather than animated.
As time passed, their discussion gradually shifted from technological advancement to something far more deliberate—cooperation.
Idris heard the underlying tone at once.
Zhongli lifted his gaze, admiration clear in his eyes.
"Sumeru's technological progress is remarkable. It has already become a leader among nations. If the various countries were to unite their efforts, perhaps we could create even greater miracles—and foster greater harmony along the way."
Shenhe nodded thoughtfully.
"Cooperation can give rise to unexpected strength. Only by breaking down barriers can we welcome new opportunities. As my master once said—'To study alone without companions is to remain narrow and incomplete.'"
Idris smiled faintly.
This was hardly just lunch anymore.
Technology truly did bind the world closer together. Sumeru stood at the peak now—but if each region contributed its strengths, what might that future look like?
Zhongli's tone carried genuine anticipation.
Idris agreed in principle.
But he also couldn't shake the feeling that the two of them were trying to negotiate long-term benefits over soup and tea.
Shenhe added calmly,
"True cooperation is more than an exchange of利益 (interests). It's cultural integration—learning from one another, compensating for weaknesses, and advancing together. That kind of partnership has real meaning."
Nahida nodded, eyes shining with hope for the future.
Just as the dishes began to arrive, hurried footsteps cut through the peaceful mood.
Nilou rushed in, breath quick, eyes bright with urgency.
"Great Sage! Great Sage—new developments!"
Everyone turned.
Idris remained composed.
"Slow down. What happened?"
Nilou steadied herself.
"The ruler of Inazuma—the 'fox'—has arrived."
A hush settled over the table.
"Fox?" Shenhe frowned slightly.
The nickname was familiar—originating in Sumeru's own informal circles.
"And she brought five thousand workers," Nilou continued. "She wants to renegotiate the cooperation terms."
"Five thousand?" Zhongli's composure faltered for a moment. His expression grew solemn.
Nahida, ever perceptive, asked calmly,
"What new conditions?"
"She wants access to Sumeru's resources and technology to accelerate Inazuma's reconstruction and stabilization," Nilou explained. "But… I'm worried this may be calculated."
Silence followed.
Five thousand laborers was not symbolic diplomacy.
It was leverage.
Despite having previously discussed collaboration timelines, this acceleration was unexpected.
All three glanced at Idris.
He was still sipping tea.
"Great Sage," Nahida whispered, nudging him lightly, "that fox definitely has other ideas."
Idris set his cup down leisurely.
"She's on our turf. She won't be overturning the board."
He turned to Nilou.
"Go invite the fox over. She can join us for lunch."
Nilou visibly relaxed.
"Understood."
Once she left, Zhongli cleared his throat.
"Great Sage… would Liyue have the opportunity to invite you back for strategic consultation as well?"
Idris chuckled.
"Trying to reap the harvest without sowing the field?"
"Of course not," Zhongli replied without hesitation. "I will persuade Ningguang to offer appropriate concessions—comparable to any other nation. And… I can personally provide an additional gift."
His gaze briefly shifted toward Shenhe… then inward, already contemplating negotiations upon returning home.
Idris noted everything.
Soon enough, she arrived.
Yae Miko entered alone.
Her presence drew every eye instantly. After all, beauty that sharp was difficult to ignore.
She walked with effortless elegance, fox-like eyes glittering with amusement.
"Lady Yae," Idris greeted lightly. "You seem even more captivating than before."
A ripple of awkward tension ran through the table.
Yae Miko smiled serenely.
"Captivating perhaps… yet still unable to capture the Great Sage's heart."
Idris nearly choked on his tea.
Zhongli and Shenhe's glances shifted subtly.
"Let's discuss serious matters," Idris coughed.
Yae Miko leaned in slightly, voice honey-soft.
"I hear you've been discussing cooperation with Sumeru. I, too, have ideas. Tell me, Great Sage… will you hear them?"
Idris sighed.
"As long as it isn't another attempt at getting something for nothing."
Yae's smile widened.
"Oh, I would never do such a thing."
Everyone at the table knew that was, at best, half-true.
The fox had arrived.
And the game had begun.
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