"It seems you're quite satisfied with your new power this time," Zhongli said, observing Jiang Ning's delighted expression.
"Yes, this has been quite fruitful," Jiang Ning replied. "Although my aura hasn't changed much, what excites me most is that I obtained some of the authority from the undead Archon Samikina."
Zhongli was surprised. "Oh? So you can even obtain an Archon's authority after absorption?"
"Not necessarily, and this Archon's authority isn't complete... I can only use a small portion of it," Jiang Ning explained.
"While I can't summon the dead like that Archon could, I can deal critical hits and true damage against undead and soul-type enemies every time."
Though Zhongli didn't understand what Jiang Ning meant by "critical hits," he grasped the general idea.
"So you naturally counter undead creatures... With your unique constitution, perhaps things will be easier for Xiao the Demon Conqueror now," Zhongli commented.
"Of course I'll help if I can, we're on the same side after all..." Jiang Ning said.
However, there was something Jiang Ning didn't mention. After communicating with the system, he learned that in future missions and journeys, he might be able to complete and even enhance this Archon's authority through rewards.
When that time comes, Jiang Ning planned to show off during demon extermination by shouting:
"Edo Tensei!"
Perhaps then he could even command deceased Archons to serve him.
To Jiang Ning, these unfamiliar Archons were just tools to be used.
Zhongli looked around. The Archon's resentful energy had been completely absorbed, and the surrounding stalactites began to collapse.
He withdrew his shield and said, "Let's go. Today's trip wasn't in vain."
"Oh right, Senior Sister, don't forget about the two Fatui outside. Let's bring them back for Keqing and Senior Sister Ganyu."
"Alright."
...
At the Wangshu Inn, Zhongli stood on the rooftop terrace, quietly gazing toward Dihua Marsh.
"Lord Rex Lapis."
Xiao, the Demon Conqueror, knelt on one knee behind Zhongli and spoke respectfully.
"Hmm... Today brought some pleasant surprises," Zhongli said.
Xiao pondered for a moment before asking, "Is it about Jiang Ning?"
Zhongli smiled. After so many years, he once again felt genuine joy.
"Yes. That child's constitution is very special. I need to confirm a few more things, but if I'm not mistaken, not only will your burden be lightened, but I too may be able to set aside my complex responsibilities."
"After thousands of years, even the most solid rock can feel fatigue from time's erosion."
Xiao's expression remained unchanged, but internally he was shocked.
From what Rex Lapis was saying... was he planning to step down?! This was major news.
However, as Rex Lapis's subordinate, whatever decision he made surely had deep meaning behind it.
Zhongli continued, "In the future, if you have chances to interact with young Jiang Ning, do so more often. It will benefit both you and Liyue, officially and personally."
"As you command, Lord Rex Lapis."
...
"So this time we must make that Tianquan pay dearly..."
When Shenhe and Jiang Ning returned home in their disheveled state, with Shenhe's injuries, Ganyu was startled.
After hearing what happened, Ganyu became furious.
Because of inaccurate intelligence, her junior disciples almost didn't make it back?
If Mr. Zhongli hadn't stepped in...
Ganyu felt a chill. She didn't dare imagine what might have happened.
Shenhe spoke apologetically: "Senior Sister, this was my fault. If I hadn't..."
"I've told you, Senior Sister Shenhe, it's not your fault. Don't blame yourself. Look, everything turned out fine, didn't it? If you keep talking like this, I'll get angry," Jiang Ning said, purposely putting on an angry expression.
Shenhe quickly stood obediently by Jiang Ning's side.
"Alright, this time I'll go with you to have a proper talk with Tianquan. Don't worry, I won't let you be taken advantage of," Ganyu assured them, patting her slime companion.
Jiang Ning asked, "Senior Sister, is this really okay? Won't people say you're abusing your position for personal revenge?"
"Not at all. How could this be considered abuse of power?" Ganyu replied. "Officially, it was indeed her intelligence failure, and we almost lost two promising adepti disciples. You should know that if you two grow up, you'll become pillars of Liyue's strength."
"Furthermore, if adepti disciples died due to the Qixing's decision-making or intelligence failures, the adepti would surely take issue. Master's temperament... she'd probably come to Liyue Harbor demanding an explanation."
"This would only strain the relationship between the Qixing and the adepti."
Ganyu's reasoning was sound, befitting her role as the Qixing's eternal secretary.
"Alright then, we'll do as you say, Senior Sister," Jiang Ning agreed.
...
News about the adepti disciples quickly reached Tianquan's ears, given her extensive network of informants.
But Ningguang only felt a headache coming on, while Keqing, who had come to discuss work, seemed somewhat amused by the situation.
"See what happens when you're so arrogant? Giving uncertain intelligence to Shenhe and Jiang Ning, and now their guardians are coming to complain," Keqing said.
Ningguang sighed. "This was indeed my mistake..."
Who could have expected it to be an Archon's ruins, with the Fatui scheming behind the scenes?
She had let her guard down due to Shenhe and Jiang Ning's strength.
This incident served as a warning to Ningguang.
No matter what, she must always verify intelligence accuracy and never make the same mistake again.
However, for her part, she would at most offer a sincere apology and appropriate compensation. She'd heard Jiang Ning was reasonable; with some mediation, perhaps this major issue could be minimized.
But...
Ningguang looked at Keqing before her with an odd expression.
She truly hadn't expected the Yuheng to be so bold, actually competing with Ganyu and Shenhe - one half-adeptus and one adepti disciple - for Jiang Ning's affections.
Rumors had spread everywhere, saying that Lady Keqing was pursuing the young man, and had even succeeded.
People could see them holding hands in the streets, though she was in disguise.
Apparently, this came from Sister Lan at the Adventurers' Guild.
There were detailed accounts, and even evidence from the Kamera...
Anyway, Ningguang couldn't understand what Keqing was thinking. Perhaps she had really reached the age for romance?
But Ningguang didn't warn Keqing. Even she wanted to watch this drama unfold.
The current Yuheng's triangle... no, multi-sided romance with an adeptus disciple.
Interesting, truly interesting.