At Liyue Harbor's Port
Facing the adepti and the Qixing, Bonanus took a moment to gather her thoughts, then crossed her arms and spoke deliberately.
"On whether to welcome the age of humanity, I don't think we should rush to a conclusion, nor should we dismiss it outright."
"Rex Lapis once praised the human race. He even considered letting humans take control of Liyue."
"Whether in times of war or peace, they have shown courage and unity."
"Their wisdom and creativity are no less than ours. Given enough time, they can truly defend their nation."
"The Qixing seek to break free from divine rule and take full control of Liyue. They want to usher in the age of humanity."
"The adepti only need to uphold their contract with Rex Lapis."
"As immortal beings, our duty is to protect Liyue, not to create conflict or spark unnecessary civil war."
"That's not what Rex Lapis would want, nor what the people of Liyue or we ourselves would want."
"Why not give them a chance? We're still here. We can handle most threats."
After finishing her speech, Bonanus felt a slight headache. Not a real one, just a psychological effect.
For someone like her, who had never been a great student, saying all that was quite the challenge.
She wondered if her rambling would convince the old fossils. It made her nervous.
After listening quietly, the three adepti closed their eyes to consider her proposal.
The risks were enormous—it was a completely different era. But if it succeeded, Liyue could reach new heights.
One thing they had to admit: humans were a remarkable race. They could create things no one expected.
"Hmph. Enough. Since the Spiral General has spoken, I won't be the one to cause a fuss." Cloud Retainer broke the silence again, her tone flat.
The other two adepti said nothing. They shot a glance at the Qixing, snorted, and transformed back into their animal forms before flying away.
Seeing how smoothly things went, Bonanus rubbed her head in surprise. The old fossils had agreed quite easily.
In truth, the adepti's concession wasn't surprising. First, they had neither the skill nor the interest in governing. Their only duty was protecting Liyue.
Second, they had no desire to compete with the Qixing for power. They preferred seclusion.
They had only come because Rex Lapis's assassination had made them question the Qixing's competence.
Besides, the three adepti weren't fools. First, the assassination was too suspicious. Second, the five Yakshas seemed completely unconcerned.
Putting everything together, something was clearly amiss.
Since that was the case, taking the offered olive branch was the natural choice. Continuing to argue would only waste breath.
...
The adepti's departure marked the end of the negotiations. It had been quite an ordeal.
Bonanus couldn't help but wonder: why was Cloud Retainer always the one doing the talking and arguing?
Even the final word had come from her. The other two just snorted.
Was it because, as men, Moon Carver and Mountain Shaper didn't want to get involved in a woman's argument?
She shook her head and dismissed the thought. No way.
Just as she was thinking that, Indarias gave her a light smack on the back of the head.
Rubbing her head, Bonanus turned around in confusion to see Indarias's bright grin.
"Not bad, Bonanus! I didn't expect you to convince them. Your big sister is impressed." Indarias laughed.
"It was mostly luck." Bonanus smiled awkwardly.
If anything, she had just been a push. As for actual influence... maybe a little?
"No need to be modest. Thank you for your help, Lady Adeptus." Ningguang stepped forward with a friendly expression.
"Don't mention it. As long as you can lead this nation to greater strength." Bonanus replied humbly.
"Even though Liyue is entering the age of humanity, we adepti will still protect it. Of course, only when you can't handle it yourselves."
"We won't interfere in internal affairs. The rest is up to you, the Qixing."
Bonanus said seriously. The age of humanity and the adepti's duty didn't conflict. There was no need to overthink it.
"I'm glad to hear that. Rest assured, I always keep my word. Give me time, and I'll give you a stronger Liyue."
Ningguang spoke with confidence. With her power, wealth, connections, and prestige, she had every right to say that.
Still, everything depended on how the future unfolded.
...
Seeing that her work here was done, Indarias took her leave. She had to go drag Bosacius away. He couldn't just sit at the harbor looking pathetic.
Bonanus stayed behind, chatting with Ningguang like two old friends. They had plenty to talk about.
So much, in fact, that they completely forgot about Lumine and Paimon.
After Ganyu took over caring for Alatus, Paimon had flown down from the Jade Chamber to see what was happening.
"So... Miss Fashui's real name is Bonanus? And she's an adeptus?" Paimon rubbed her fried brain, looking utterly shocked.
"Took you long enough to figure it out. I suspected it from the moment Bonanus stood with the adepti on the Jade Chamber."
"All that food, and it still doesn't go to your head." Lumine poked Paimon's forehead.
"Thank goodness Paimon didn't give her any embarrassing nicknames. That would have been bad." Paimon patted her chest in relief.
"It's Sister Bonanus." Lumine corrected.
Lumine pursed her lips and rubbed her forehead. She had always felt Bonanus carried secrets, but she never expected one of them to be her identity as an adeptus.
Hearing them talk, Bonanus finally realized she had forgotten about the two of them.
How could she have forgotten the cute ones? How rude.
"Sorry, I got carried away talking with Ningguang. Almost forgot you two were here." Bonanus smiled apologetically.
"Don't worry. We're just happy to see adepti and mortals getting along so well." Lumine said kindly.
"Such interesting travelers. If you're willing, I'd love to have you work at the Jade Chamber." Ningguang turned her attention to them with a smile.
During the battle, she had seen the Traveler's combat prowess. She was on par with the Yuheng.
Every leader wanted talented people under their command. Ningguang was no exception.
"Sorry, but I have my own journey to follow." Lumine declined with a smile. If not for her search for her brother, she might have been tempted.
Working at the Jade Chamber would surely pay well.
"In that case, I won't insist. But rewards are still in order..."
Ningguang wasn't bothered by the refusal. It was a shame, but she couldn't force anyone.
"If possible, could you put up some missing person posters for me?" Lumine quickly asked.
"Simple enough. I agree." Ningguang nodded. It was an easy request to fulfill.
"Tch. That girl's eyes are completely fixed on her brother." Bonanus sighed. If it were her, she would have asked for a fortune.
After all, a journey still needed Mora to sustain it.
"With that, I'll take my leave. Today has been eventful, and I have matters to attend to. If you need anything, come find me at the Jade Chamber."
With that, Ningguang left with her people. Liyue would need to demand answers from Snezhnaya.
The Fatui were part of Snezhnaya, and they had released a god and attacked the Guizhong Ballistas. It was infuriating.
Even without Rex Lapis, Liyue wasn't a pushover. How to handle it would be up to Ningguang.