Genshin Impact: Strength Through Bonds

"They're probably already waiting outside the Tenshukaku by now!"

Thoma didn't dare hesitate, quickly blurting out his thoughts.

The atmosphere was oppressively silent.

Kamisato Ayato's expression was unreadable, his fingers tapping rhythmically on the table.

"It seems they're quite confident."

"However…"

"Inazuma isn't a place where two commissions alone can dictate terms."

The ripples in the tea reflected the cold gleam in his eyes.

He stood up slowly, his voice soft yet resolute:

"It seems I'll have to pay the Tenshukaku a visit myself."

Kamisato Ayaka furrowed her delicate brows, her tone filled with concern.

"Brother, do you need me to—"

"No, stay here and wait for my return."

Ayato's lips curved into a gentle smile.

No matter what happens, your brother will shield you from it all.

"…Alright."

Ayaka bit her lip lightly, nodding slightly.

Ayato departed with Thoma, leaving the room heavy with tension.

Ren pondered deeply before sighing silently.

Let's hope the Vision Hunt Decree doesn't rear its head again.

"…"

Mei looked up towards the window.

In the far distance, a grand structure loomed, standing tall between heaven and earth—

Tenshukaku.

The residence of the Raiden Shogun.

Ayaka smiled faintly.

"It's alright; no need to worry."

"This isn't the first time my brother has dealt with such situations."

Her comforting smile gave the group a sense of solace, though faint.

For now, all they could do was wait.

The atmosphere lightened somewhat, but no one seemed in the mood for tea or casual conversation anymore.

"Whew."

Ren shook his head lightly, fatigue plain on his face.

As the tension eased, an overwhelming sense of exhaustion washed over him.

It had been a long day, packed with one event after another, including several intense battles.

Even iron men would struggle to endure this.

"…"

Mei glanced at Ren.

Weren't you so full of bravado earlier in front of me?

Ren raised his hand slightly, letting out a helpless chuckle.

Yup, she's looking down on me again.

I said I'd protect the little shrine maiden… yet look at me now. Embarrassing.

"…"

Suddenly, Ren froze.

His gaze landed on a small, delicate dessert that had mysteriously appeared on the table before him.

It sat there, quietly and innocently.

When did this get here?

Unsure, he blinked and looked again.

It's real.

His eyes instinctively shifted to the composed figure opposite him.

Could it be… she placed it there when I wasn't paying attention?

"…"

The aloof shrine maiden remained as icy as ever, her side profile stunningly elegant as she gazed out at the scenery.

"…"

As if sensing his stare, she turned her head, her expression calm and indifferent.

Ren picked up the dessert and waved it slightly, testing the waters.

"What is it?"

Her tone was a little sharp, almost defensive.

Ren mouthed his thanks silently: Thank you, oh beautiful shrine maiden.

"…"

The shrine maiden crossed her arms, letting out a faint snort.

Ridiculous. Don't disturb me while I'm enjoying the view!

Ren's lips curved into a small smile as he cleared his throat, trying to suppress his laughter.

Oddly enough, I suddenly feel much more energized. Could it be the shrine maiden's mysterious powers at work?

"…"

The shrine maiden shot him a glare.

Noticing Ren's exhausted state, Ayaka smiled gently, her voice soft and caring:

"The night is deep. Everyone should rest now."

She called for the attendants to arrange accommodations.

"Yay, we get to spend the night at Ayaka's house again!"

Yoimiya cheered, her face lighting up with excitement.

Clearly, this wasn't her first time.

"Everyone, I'll take my leave for now."

Ayaka left first, as there were many matters needing her attention with her brother absent.

"See you tomorrow."

The girls waved goodbye to Ren.

"Mhm… yeah, see you."

Yoimiya blinked at Ren, who seemed to be savoring something sweet.

Whatever it is, it looks delicious.

Her gaze shifted between Ren and Mei.

Hmm… something's fishy here.

The love guru of Hanamizaka had detected an anomaly.

"Hmph."

Mei crossed her arms, making it clear she wanted nothing to do with Ren.

Big, bold letters spelled out her disdain.

"See you tomorrow, Takahashi-san!"

Yoimiya pulled Mei and Sayu along as they left, navigating the estate with ease.

Clearly, they were regulars here.

---

Yoimiya suddenly darted in front of Mei, spinning in a circle.

Her sparkling eyes glimmered with excitement as she whispered conspiratorially:

"Hehe, Mei-nee, guess what? We're sharing a room tonight!"

Mei froze for a moment before nodding quietly.

Strange custom.

She recalled Ren's advice.

'When in Rome…'

Fine, I'll listen to him this time.

It's just sharing a room. No big deal.

"Yay!"

Yoimiya leapt with joy, cheering loudly.

"Mei-nee didn't refuse! This is great!"

Wait, I could've refused?

Under the moonlight, Yoimiya busied herself preparing the bedding.

"…"

The world around her grew quiet.

Mei stood still in the center of the courtyard, as if waiting for something.

For a long while, the only sound was the rustling of the night breeze.

Her hair fluttered gently, the strands gathering a faint purple glow.

A beautiful light brimming with destructive power.

Crack—

Amid the starry night sky, thunder suddenly rumbled.

The lightning elemental energy in the air seemed restless, almost joyous.

"Annoying."

A cold snort rang out.

The unruly thunder immediately quieted, trembling into submission.

Mei withdrew her gaze.

After a while, she sighed softly, murmuring:

"With my command, thunder calms across the world. May you sleep soundly tonight."

"Good night, Ren."

"Mei-nee, what a loud thunderclap just now! …Huh?"

Yoimiya ran out into the courtyard.

Purple light lingered faintly in the air, but the cold, elegant figure was already gone.

As if she had never been there at all.

---

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