Seeing the newcomer, Futsu Mitama was stunned, and Shenhe was likewise.
Both of them recognized who the young man standing before them was.
He was one of the Three-Eyed and Five-Manifested Adepti, bearing the adeptal name "Conqueror of Demons."
Shenhe had heard many stories about him from Cloud Retainer, and at times she would even encounter him during her monster-slaying missions. In her memory, he was always stern and silent, slaying demons and monsters before departing, like a passing traveler.
However, all the Adepti in Liyue held him in great respect, for he had always contributed silently to Liyue's safety. There were few records of his legends among the common folk. Yet, if not for him, Liyue would not be as peaceful as it is today. Thus, according to her master, he was extremely renowned within the circle of the Adepti.
Most Adepti were even willing to act alongside him, but this Yaksha had once stated that it was his contract with the Geo Archon, and that there was no need for thanks—he was merely fulfilling his duty.
"Conqueror of Demons? You're here?"
At this moment, Cloud Retainer flew down from mid-air. She appeared somewhat surprised to see him, though not overly so.
"Mmm." The Conqueror of Demons—or rather, Xiao—nodded calmly. He then looked at Futsu Mitama and Shenhe and said, "You two did well."
When he arrived, he had seen Futsu Mitama and Shenhe charging toward the self-destructing Primo Geovishap. That resolve was worthy of his affirmation.
"Just doing our part." Shenhe's expression remained calm, as though it were nothing at all.
Futsu Mitama, however, glanced at Xiao's injuries and asked, "Has a ruin been opened nearby?"
Xiao was not someone who could be easily injured. As one of Liyue's combat ceilings, ordinary monsters would not be able to harm him. Clearly, it was a monster infected and strengthened by remnants of the Archon that had drawn him into a hard-fought battle, forcing him to spend time resolving it completely before rushing here without pause.
This caused Futsu Mitama to feel rather emotional. Xiao's overtime was different from that of Ganyu and Keqing.
Ganyu and Keqing, at the very least, had moments of rest during their overtime. Xiao was different—his overtime truly meant risking his life, and he was working overtime constantly.
"Oh, right—Conqueror of Demons, you're injured." Only now did Cloud Retainer notice Xiao's wounds after landing. She retrieved a green talisman from somewhere and said earnestly, "Although it can only provide simple healing, it should suffice."
As she spoke, the green talisman transformed into a ray of light that flowed into Xiao's body, healing most of the injuries on his skin.
"Thank you." Xiao spoke calmly. He then looked at Futsu Mitama and said, "Yes. That was a ruin slain and sealed by the Geo Archon. Due to the passage of time, combined with the Primo Geovishap breaking in, it was damaged."
"And within it were a large number of monsters corrupted by remnants of the Archon. It took me some effort to clear them out. Just as I was about to kill the Primo Geovishap—"
"I discovered that it had been lured away. Now it seems—it was lured away by you, Cloud Retainer."
Although Xiao had been injured earlier, from his tone, killing the Geovishap did not seem to be a major issue.
"Mmm." Cloud Retainer replied earnestly. "Conqueror of Demons, you have been busy slaying demons and monsters as of late, so it is only natural that you would be unaware of recent events."
As she spoke, Cloud Retainer informed Xiao about the abandoned mine, as well as everything that had occurred with Futsu Mitama at Mt. Aocang.
"..."
Xiao looked at Futsu Mitama, a peculiar glint flashing through his eyes. Earlier, while clearing out monsters, he had naturally sensed the anomalies caused by the activation of Electro Archon Authority. And when the Inazuma Electro Archon descended upon Mt. Aocang before, he had also considered going to see what had transpired.
Bearing the important responsibility of protecting Liyue's citizens, he would not have allowed the Electro Archon to act freely within Liyue.
However, due to the Geo Archon's words, Xiao and the other Adepti had not set out for Mt. Aocang.
Now, Xiao understood the truth: the Electro Archon's descent upon Mt. Aocang had been for Futsu Mitama—her Raiden Shogun's retainer.
The Electro Archon was training Futsu Mitama. As long as Futsu Mitama remained in Liyue, the Electro Archon would visit once every seven days.
Xiao did not reject Futsu Mitama for this. After all, he had indeed blocked the Primo Geovishap for Liyue, even though he could have merely observed from the sidelines and done nothing at all.
Shenhe was an Immortal Disciple, so it was natural for her to take action. After all, any Immortal Disciple would, more or less, engage in demon-slaying activities. But Futsu Mitama was different. As the Raiden Shogun's retainer, he did not need to do anything in Liyue and would naturally be treated as an honored guest.
By acting as he did, he gained little in return, and his deeds would only be known to the Qixing and the Adepti.
Although Xiao could not give him anything, he still nodded slightly and said calmly, "Thank you."
After speaking, Xiao prepared to continue clearing out monsters. The remnants of the Archon had erupted quite frequently that night, and he could not remain here for long.
"Wait a moment." At this moment, Futsu Mitama called out to Xiao.
"What is it?"
Xiao turned to look at Futsu Mitama. He was patient, for what Futsu Mitama had done was worthy of that patience.
[Futsu Mitama: "@Sangonomiya Kokomi, can I borrow another condensed resin?"]
[Sangonomiya Kokomi: "Ah? That's fine, I still have quite a lot here—more than enough to use."]
[Azhdaha: "What's wrong? Why do you suddenly want this? Are you planning to eat it as a dessert?"]
[Yae Miko: "Little guy! You can't eat that as a dessert!!! That stuff can heal erosion!!!"][]
[Raiden Makoto: "Suspected to heal erosion. It's possible that Ei had never eaten something so delicious before, which is why her temperament changed. Unless another Archon eats it, we cannot determine whether it truly heals erosion."]
[Zhongli: "@Futsu Mitama, why do you suddenly want to eat this?"]
[Futsu Mitama: "I met an Adeptus here—a Yaksha. I see a look of suffering on his face, as though he is burdened by something, so I plan to give him a condensed resin."]
[Futsu Mitama: "After all, according to Kokomi, this item can restore one's spirit and help them work harder."]
[Sangonomiya Kokomi: "No, Futsu Mitama, don't say it… My energy is almost depleted… I'm even wondering if I should eat another one."]
[Yae Miko: "What a waste of heaven's gifts."]
[Zhongli sent Futsu Mitama a gift.]
[Zhongli: "I still have a condensed resin here. I have already mastered most of its ingredients, lacking only one main component."]
[Albedo: "Oh? As expected of Mr. Zhongli—you have already discovered this."]
[Yae Miko: "Hmm? You only found one type missing??? I found three!"]
[Raiden Makoto: "..."]
[Azhdaha: "Hahahaha!"]
[Azhdaha: "A Yaksha? What are his physical characteristics?"]
[Futsu Mitama: "He wields a spear, is a bit short, and—"][]
[Azhdaha: "Good. I know who it is. That fellow, Alatus—hahahaha, I miss him a bit."]
[Azhdaha: "He's also a pitiful one. He's the only Yaksha left."]
[Kamisato Ayaka: "You recognized him from just two traits???"]
[Sangonomiya Kokomi: "Or rather—as long as you say he's a bit short, Azhdaha will know who it is?"]
[Albedo: "A Yaksha? Another Adeptus—ah, can I make it if I speed up?"]
[Albedo: "I have some complaints about these mountains."]
[Zhongli: "There is a trade route between Liyue and Mondstadt. If you travel at full speed along it, it should not be slow."]
[Albedo: "I'm coming from the direction of Dragonspine. As for the trade route… well… rushing to it now wouldn't be much faster than simply heading straight to Liyue."]
[Zhongli: "I see. That road would indeed be difficult to traverse, and at the same time, its scenery is beautiful—very suitable for painting and poetry."]
[Albedo: "As expected of Mr. Zhongli. It's just that the scenery here is too beautiful; I often stop to paint, and then collect alchemical materials."]
[Yae Miko: "So you lament every day that all kinds of exciting things are happening with the little guy, while you're still on the road."]
[Sangonomiya Kokomi: "At least Albedo is traveling. I'm still working overtime late into the night handling Resistance affairs."]
[Kamisato Ayaka: "Recently, the Yashiro Commission hasn't had much going on. According to Thoma, however, a batch of desserts arrived at Tenshukaku—apparently for the Raiden Shogun."]
[Raiden Makoto: "I hope the Raiden Shogun's teeth are alright."]
[Yae Miko: "Can an Archon even get cavities? It's good that she can eat desserts—at least she can learn about changes in the outside world through them."]
Unknowingly, the conversation had gone off topic once again, but Futsu Mitama was already accustomed to it.
After receiving the condensed resin from Zhongli, he looked at Xiao—whose eyes carried a hint of strangeness—and extended his hand, saying, "Have this."
Futsu Mitama handed the condensed resin to Xiao. Judging from Zhongli's various remarks, this item might be capable of treating the [erosion/karma] afflicting Xiao.
Whether human or god, as long as one lives, they are inevitably subject to the power of [erosion].
Xiao himself had experienced erosion. Now, he held the mindset that if he died, then so be it. If he lived, then he would devote himself wholeheartedly to protecting Liyue, fighting for its myriad lights.
Across various storylines, it is also evident that Xiao has always fought while seeking death—or rather, searching for an opportunity to sacrifice himself to save others.
The longest-lived Yaksha was also the one who had endured the most trials and suffered the greatest pain.
Futsu Mitama wanted to test whether the condensed resin could remove—or at least temporarily suppress—the remnants of the Archon.
After all, condensed resin could resist erosion, and erosion itself was a peculiar concept. Erosion referred to the loss of memories, forgetting what was important, and becoming increasingly irritable and volatile.
The karma burdening Xiao was, in essence, pollution from remnants of the Archon, constantly assaulting him on a spiritual level. Among the five mighty Yakshas, three had died unnatural deaths, one had disappeared without a trace, and only one—Conqueror Xiao—remained.
Yet, in a sense, he was also nearing his limit. In one battle, Xiao had failed to suppress the karma within him and was on the verge of losing himself.
He survived only because Barbatos—the famously carefree Archon of neighboring Mondstadt—had intervened and saved him.
Thus, in a way, Xiao's karma and erosion shared similar characteristics.
After this battle with the Primo Geovishap, Futsu Mitama also understood that he would likely encounter more monsters possessed or corrupted by remnants of the Archon in the future. Battling them would inevitably result in contamination by such remnants. For the sake of the future, Futsu Mitama chose to give the condensed resin to Xiao.
In a sense, he was also using Xiao as a test subject, to see whether it could eliminate the karma afflicting him.
"For me?" Xiao looked at the condensed resin. His nose twitched slightly, as though he detected a pleasant scent. He took half a step back and shook his head. "That's unnecessary. I don't like sweets."
"This isn't candy." Futsu Mitama extended his hand toward Xiao. "It's medicine. After consuming it, you'll recall beautiful things and feel more energetic."
"Although its taste is indeed similar to candy. Raiden Ei—ah, the Electro Archon—once ate this as a dessert."
"Judging from her expression and the special guidance that followed, this item is exceptionally effective. Go on—eat one. You'll be satisfied."
Hearing this, Cloud Retainer and Xiao both wore somewhat strange expressions.
The Electro Archon had eaten candy in front of them—and had been very satisfied? Had they inadvertently overheard some confidential matter?
Xiao was not good at refusing others. Seeing how determined Futsu Mitama was, he no longer declined, thinking that he would leave immediately after consuming it.
After taking the condensed resin from Futsu Mitama's hand, Xiao placed it into his mouth, intending to bite it like a candy bean. Unexpectedly, the condensed resin dissolved into a sweet liquid that flowed directly into his body.
In that instant, a flicker of trance passed through Xiao's eyes—the days spent living with the other four Yakshas like brothers and sisters, the day the Geo Archon saved him, the moment he was given his name, and the feeling he experienced when gazing upon the myriad lights of human homes.
Beautiful memories surged through his mind. Only when piercing screams rang out nearby did Xiao regain his senses.
Yet after regaining awareness, Xiao did not focus on the screams. Instead, he felt astonishingly light, as though a tremendous burden he had carried for countless years had been lifted.
Those beautiful memories continued to replay within him.
"This—?! What is going on?!"
Nearby, Cloud Retainer stood frozen in shock.
Yes—she was truly shocked.
Because she could clearly see that the karma clinging to the Conqueror of Demons was dissipating rapidly, visibly dispersing, as though it had encountered its natural nemesis.
But the Conqueror of Demons had just eaten something that looked, at a glance, like nothing more than candy.
And yet now, the aura surrounding him had visibly changed. His expression was no longer tense, nor burdened by the invisible weight he had carried for countless years. This sense of ease did not come merely from the dissipation of long-accumulated karma—it went deeper still.
Erosion.
As one who had once devoted herself to researching methods to counter erosion, Cloud Retainer understood all too well how insurmountable such a force truly was. It was precisely because erosion could not be halted that Lord Rex Lapis had no choice but to seal Azhdaha deep beneath the earth.
And now—
To witness both karma and erosion being resolved by something so deceptively simple, something that resembled a piece of candy—
How could she not be shaken?
Cloud Retainer's gaze snapped toward Futsu Mitama. Her voice, usually measured, rose sharply as she demanded,
"What materials is this made of? Do you have any more?! This Adeptus must study it at once!"
"This…" Seeing Cloud Retainer so animated, Futsu Mitama immediately understood the source of her agitation. He sighed helplessly before replying, "I only have one on me. The others have already been given to other people for research."
After all, this item originated from Kokomi's check-in rewards. Every piece consumed was one fewer in existence. There was no longer any surplus to spare for further experimentation. Moreover, the individuals currently researching it were no ordinary figures.
Yae Miko—that sly fox—was likely no weaker than Cloud Retainer herself. Albedo specialized in alchemical research, and Zhongli was none other than Lord Rex Lapis, who had witnessed the rise and fall of countless eras.
Even Albedo and Zhongli had concluded that a crucial ingredient was missing. The auxiliary materials were not difficult to acquire, but that one core component remained elusive.
As for Zhongli distributing these items under the pretense of increasing luck…he had likely expected fortune to favor all. What he had not anticipated was that luck had indeed increased—though only in the form of improved check-in experiences.
For these reasons, Futsu Mitama had no intention of handing the condensed resin to Cloud Retainer. When she asked for it, all he could do was offer her ordinary candy in its place.
Nearby, Shenhe observed quietly.
She watched her master, suddenly brimming with excitement, and then glanced at Xiao, whose previously stern expression had unmistakably softened. Her gaze eventually returned to Futsu Mitama, curiosity flickering faintly within her eyes.
Why was it that he could always produce such striking items?
First the bracelet. Now this candy-like substance.
Just how many secrets did he carry on his person?
She was curious—deeply so—but she did not voice it. There was no need.
After a brief moment, Cloud Retainer seemed to accept that Futsu Mitama truly had no condensed resin remaining. Disappointment settled visibly across her features.
In her heart, she was certain that if she could obtain even a single piece—
She would be able to replicate it.
And if she succeeded, perhaps even Azhdaha—who had long suffered beneath the weight of erosion—could one day return to the surface and see the light of day once more.
"Such an item—" Cloud Retainer murmured softly, "is far too precious."
At that moment, Xiao fully regained his composure.
He turned toward Futsu Mitama, his gaze markedly gentler than before, and spoke in his usual calm tone, "I have nothing I can offer in return."
"However, since I have consumed it, I will say no more."
"Within Liyue, should you encounter danger, simply call my name. I will appear."
"My name is Xiao. I am one of the Yaksha Adeptus under Lord Rex Lapis. If fate permits, we shall meet again."
With those words, Xiao vanished from where he stood.
In the next instant, he reappeared at the site where the Primo Geovishap had self-destructed earlier. He retrieved his spear from the ground, then turned back and gave Futsu Mitama a slight nod.
And then, once more, he disappeared.
Tonight was clearly one of relentless battles. Under ordinary circumstances, Xiao might have lingered longer—but time did not permit it.
After Xiao's departure, Futsu Mitama approached the Geovishap's remains. Scattered flesh and broken scales lay across the ground. Turning to Cloud Retainer, he asked,
"The Primo Geovishap was contaminated by remnants of the archon. Is it safe for ordinary people to consume this meat?"
There was a trace of regret in his voice.
A significant portion of the Geovishap's scales had been destroyed, and much of its blood had evaporated in the internal Pyro explosion. All that remained was partially cooked flesh.
"Theoretically, yes." Cloud Retainer examined the corpse calmly before replying, "Remnants of the archon only affect the living. Once death occurs, those remnants return to the earth."
"This cycle repeats endlessly. A god is immortal—though their consciousness may be erased, their remnants persist. However, there is no precedent of anyone daring to consume the corpse of a being afflicted by such remnants. This Adeptus cannot guarantee that nothing will go awry."
Hearing this, Futsu Mitama felt a twinge of regret. Still, he stepped forward and began looting the corpse, curious to see whether it might yield any materials.
And then—
He found something.
"Hm?" Futsu Mitama stared at a crystalline substance resembling refined ore that he had extracted from the Geovishap's chest. His voice carried a note of surprise. "This is—"
Juvenile Jade
A material known to be obtained from Primo Geovishaps—said to harbor the latent potential to become a dragon.
Futsu Mitama was not surprised by its existence.
Rather, he was surprised that he had actually found it. This was the first time he had ever retrieved something tangible from looting a corpse.
Originally, he had only intended to take a cursory look. In the past, such attempts had always yielded nothing. He had not expected success this time.
"Oh? Juvenile jade?" Cloud Retainer's eyes lit with recognition. Having traveled far and wide, she studied the crystal before sighing softly. "So it truly exists within them."
"It seems Primo Geovishaps will not face extinction in the future. Older Vishaps possess similar substances as well."
As she spoke, her mood visibly improved. So long as Geovishaps endured, there remained balance. She only hoped that the next one would not turn hostile toward humanity—otherwise, she would be forced to intervene once more.
Her gaze lingered on the unripe jade in Futsu Mitama's hand as she continued, "You are fortunate. If this unripe jade were nurtured for another ten years or so, that Primo Geovishap's strength would have undergone a qualitative leap."
"At that point, it might even rival this Adeptus. It is said that Juvenile jade is the key to becoming a dragon."
"If it were to become the heart of a Primo Geovishap…"
"It could very well transform into a true dragon—one capable of shaking mountains and tearing the earth apart, just as the legends describe. Hmm… why does that sound like Azhdaha? Never mind~"
Noticing the Millelith approaching in the distance, Cloud Retainer knew they had arrived to handle the aftermath. Such a massive corpse could not be left unattended.
"Alright," she said. "We should depart as well."
She beckoned Futsu Mitama and Shenhe onto her back, intending to return to Mt. Aocang.
"You first." Futsu Mitama gestured for Shenhe to board ahead of him. He had no intention of taking advantage of the situation.
Though holding her waist felt… undeniably pleasant, he was still a gentleman.
"Okay." Shenhe did not refuse. She seated herself in front, while Futsu Mitama took his place behind her, his arms encircling her waist.
"Whoosh—!"
The familiar force of acceleration struck again as Cloud Retainer surged forward at tremendous speed.
Midway through the flight, Futsu Mitama asked, "Do we no longer need to worry about the ruins?"
"No." Cloud Retainer's response was immediate and calm. "The Conqueror of Demons has already resolved that matter—and he made it clear he does not wish for interference."
"The condensed resin you gave him greatly alleviated both his erosion and karma. He is now at his peak."
"Even I am not his match."
Cloud Retainer was immensely powerful. The fact that she could face a Primo Geovishap alone without resorting to her talismans was proof enough.
Yet even she acknowledged Xiao's strength at his peak.
With such power, the remaining threats were nothing more than trifles. Based on years of experience, the Vanquisher of Evil would never engage in a battle he could not win.
If an enemy beyond his capabilities emerged, he would consult the other Adepti.
And should something arise that even he could not defeat—
Then Lord Rex Lapis himself would undoubtedly intervene.
"Oh, right." Futsu Mitama suddenly recalled something. "Did you find the one who attacked you, True Monarch?"
He had already guessed the culprit.
After all, in Liyue, who else would dare strike an Adeptus?
Tartaglia's intent had clearly been to save the Primo Geovishap—though Futsu Mitama did not yet know why.
That was fine. He could question Tartaglia later.
For example—
Tartaglia, you wouldn't want the Liyue Qixing to learn that you attacked an Adeptus, would you?
With such leverage, he could extract more information—and then quietly inform the Qixing.
They would never confront Tartaglia openly—but they would certainly become far more vigilant.
"No." Cloud Retainer shook her head, irritation evident in her voice. "This Adeptus can tell that the individual was extremely powerful. He seized his moment perfectly, struck once, and vanished."
"I could not pursue him—it may have been a diversion. Thus, I returned immediately to deal with the Primo Geovishap."
"I did not expect the Conqueror of Demons to arrive. That scoundrel likely withdrew the moment the Primo Geovishap died."
Her anger was unmistakable. Being ambushed at such a critical juncture—and nearly allowing the Primo Geovishap to escape—would enrage anyone.
Shenhe, however, remained composed. She turned to Cloud Retainer and said evenly,
"Master, based on the attack, he is a Hydro Vision wielder. If the Liyue Qixing investigate, they will identify him."
"Someone capable of evading your pursuit so swiftly is no ordinary individual."
Hearing this, Futsu Mitama silently offered Tartaglia a moment of condolence. If Cloud Retainer truly brought this matter before Liyue Harbor…
Only a Fatui Harbinger could match such capabilities.
Moreover, Tartaglia's fondness for archery was something Ganyu herself had witnessed.
"We'll discuss this later." Cloud Retainer hesitated briefly, then looked toward Mt. Aocang ahead. "For now, the mission is complete. Let us rest."
Upon reaching Mt. Aocang, Cloud Retainer descended. Futsu Mitama and Shenhe dismounted.
"True Monarch." Kuki Shinobu approached calmly. "Tonight was peaceful. However—I sensed someone observing me from the shadows."
"He left a few minutes before you arrived."
"Hm?" ×3
Futsu Mitama, Shenhe, and Cloud Retainer—all turned to look at her. They did not doubt Kuki Shinobu's assessment. Though she resembled a ninja, her counter-reconnaissance abilities were exceptional. Anyone who fixed their gaze upon her would inevitably be noticed.
This was one of her innate talents.
Indeed, earlier that day, when Cloud Retainer had discreetly observed Shenhe and Futsu Mitama from afar, Kuki Shinobu had detected her—twice.
It was for this reason that Cloud Retainer had asked Kuki Shinobu to remain behind and protect Aila.
Now, it seemed her caution had been warranted.
An uninvited guest had arrived.
And upon sensing Kuki Shinobu's presence, the individual appeared to hesitate—before choosing to withdraw rather than force their way in.
"The visitor means ill." Cloud Retainer snorted coldly and took to the skies once more. "You will all remain on the mountain."
"I will summon Mountain Shaper and Moon Carver to establish a formation. No matter who it is, Mt. Aocang is not a place to be trespassed at will. Since he has set his sights on this Adeptus's disciples—then when he returns, he will stay."
"After he reveals everything he knows, this Adeptus may consider letting him leave."
With that, Cloud Retainer departed, clearly intent on gathering the other Adeptus.
Watching her furious retreat, Futsu Mitama felt a quiet sense of reassurance.
Aila had chosen the right master.
Once unwilling to entangle herself in karma, Cloud Retainer now reacted with immediate anger at the mere notion of harm coming to her disciple.
To others, restraint.
To her own—uncompromising protection.
Elsewhere in Liyue, Tartaglia sat atop a massive rock, sighing heavily.
Everything had gone wrong.
He had planned to save the Priomo Geovishap and withdraw cleanly—but the Crane Adeptus had proven far more troublesome than anticipated.
In the blink of an eye, the Geovishap was dead.
Two Adeptius had appeared.
Hey, Brother, you lied to me. This wasn't just one Adeptus.
Though, to be fair, Brother Futsu had only said that the Adepti intended to kill the Primo Geovishap—not that there was only one.
"This is bad," Tartaglia muttered. "Now I've lost the lead on Azhdaha—and I've offended an Adeptus on top of that."
This operation was a complete failure.
"Hehehe."
A low chuckle echoed nearby.
Tartaglia straightened, his helpless expression vanishing as he turned toward the figure in the shadows. "I knew you wouldn't follow the rules."
"If I were you, I'd be reporting to the Liyue Ministry of Civil Affairs right now."
Under the moonlight, a masked middle-aged man emerged. His voice was deep and steady.
"Spare me, Tartaglia. I have no interest in playing political games with Liyue."
"All I care about is Futsu Mitama. I want his winemaking recipe."
Tartaglia rubbed his temples helplessly. "And why are you so obsessed with Brother Futsu's recipe, Dottore?"
The newcomer was indeed Il Dottore. This segment bore a middle-aged form—far more composed than his youthful Inazuman incarnation—yet the madness beneath remained unmistakable.
His purpose in Liyue was clear.
And Tartaglia had suspected as much.
In Inazuma, Dottore had already shown unusual interest in Futsu Mitama—even before his identity as the Raiden Shogun's retainer had been revealed.He had repeatedly proposed capturing him and bringing him to Snezhnaya, insisting that this individual harbored a profound secret.
At the time, no one had taken him seriously.
They had assumed Dottore was simply indulging in one of his many bouts of madness. After all—
This was the same man who had once abducted a young girl from Liyue, only for her to later rebel against Snezhnaya itself and slaughter countless of its soldiers. If she were still in Snezhnaya, serving beneath Her Majesty the Tsaritsa, Tartaglia might well have found himself contending with her for the final seat among the Fatui Harbingers.
But now, many could not help but wonder whether Dottore had foreseen something long ago—whether he was already laying the groundwork for a scheme too unspeakable to name.
Sumeru had fallen under Dottore's control. What, precisely, he was doing there remained unknown. What was known, however, was this—
At the most recent Harbinger conclave, Dottore had spoken with absolute certainty. The Dendro Archon's Gnosis, he declared, was already within their grasp. There was no cause for concern.
"Desire?" Dottore gave a soft laugh, turning his gaze toward Tartaglia. His voice was measured, unhurried. "No, Tartaglia. This is not desire. This is necessity. With your way of thinking, you likely have no concept of how valuable Futsu Mitama truly is."
"If he were willing to leave Inazuma and come to Snezhnaya," he continued, "then we would gain another companion of similar inclination."
"Of course," Dottore added, a faint curve at the corner of his lips, "I am not speaking of his combat strength—but rather…his wisdom."
That smile carried an unmistakable implication, as though silently informing Tartaglia that someone who only understood battle could never grasp the meaning of such a word.
Tartaglia, however, let the remark pass through him without pause. In Snezhnaya, who was unaware that Dottore was a zealot of science?
The man was utterly unhinged. And yet, it was precisely because of him that the Fatui's armaments and technological standards had advanced beyond measure.
Still, Tartaglia disliked Dottore.
His arrogance was grating. And though Tartaglia could not yet defeat him in a direct confrontation, he had no interest in trading barbs.
He exhaled lightly and looked at Dottore. "Get to the point. You didn't come all this way just to talk. You want something."
"Otherwise," Tartaglia continued coolly, "with your temperament, you'd already be acting. You wouldn't bother seeking me out."
Dottore was a man who made use of everything around him—this much Tartaglia knew well. His initiative here was not because Tartaglia ranked last among the Harbingers.
It was because Dottore needed him.
Dottore's rank exceeded his own, and if he truly wished to give orders, a portion of the Fatui stationed in Liyue would obey without hesitation.
Such was the norm in Snezhnaya.
Beneath the Tsaritsa herself, the Harbingers' authority was, in many respects, absolute.
Unless Tartaglia was prepared to turn against Dottore outright, the Doctor could easily seize part of his operational command in Liyue.
Of course, that was speaking of Dottore himself—not merely one of his segments.
"Hm." Dottore nodded, clearly satisfied. "You're not completely foolish."
He regarded Tartaglia with an appraising gaze. "My purpose is simple. I want you to arrange a meeting between me and Futsu Mitama."
A sharp glimmer flickered through Tartaglia's eyes. He leapt down from the rock and faced Dottore directly.
"That may prove difficult," he said evenly. "You know as well as I do—he's openly hostile toward the Fatui. After what Scaramouche and Signora did, inviting him won't be easy."
The meaning beneath Tartaglia's words was clear. He was asking for compensation.
Dottore, naturally, understood.
"What do you want?" Dottore replied without hesitation. "Say it."
"As long as you arrange this meeting," he continued calmly, "most of what I possess can be lent to you—for a time."
Over the years, Dottore had developed countless creations of disturbing utility. Tartaglia knew this well.
"Straightforward. I like that." Tartaglia smiled faintly. "I want that device of yours—the one that forcibly evolves living beings. You'll provide the operating method and personnel."
"If it works," Tartaglia added, eyes gleaming, "I'll guarantee you meet Futsu Mitama within a week. Face to face. A peaceful discussion."
At his request, Dottore frowned slightly, confusion surfacing in his expression.
He had expected Tartaglia to demand some enhancement—something to bolster his strength or awaken further potential. After all, Tartaglia was a warrior to the core.
But a machine that forcibly evolved lifeforms?
Was he tired of being human?
After a brief silence, Dottore nodded.
"Very well," he said. "But understand this—the device is incomplete. A flawed prototype."
"The success rate is abysmally low. And even if evolution occurs, the resulting strength will be severely diminished, with an extremely short lifespan."
He fixed Tartaglia with a steady gaze. "Do not harbor illusions. I am warning you now, so you have no excuse later."
Tartaglia's smile only widened.
"Don't worry," he replied lightly. "I won't."