Chapter 61

Although this wasn't his first visit to Wangshu Inn, Jiang Ning was still captivated by its appearance every time he came.

He couldn't help it - like most young men, he was drawn to grand and magnificent things.

Built atop the mountains and forests, Wangshu Inn perfectly matched Jiang Ning's preferences. He even thought that if there was ever a zombie outbreak, this inn would be an easily defensible position.

The only drawback would be that, like Ma Su, they could be defeated if their supply lines were cut off.

While he was lost in these random thoughts, Huixin had already arranged all the rooms.

Shenhe and Jiang Ning were given rooms on the fourth floor, the highest level, along with Huixin. This was mainly because Huixin and Jiang Ning needed to discuss some upcoming plans and administrative work.

The rest of the group stayed on the first and second floors, as they needed to watch over their luggage and cargo.

This had become something of a custom for the Liyue diplomatic mission.

"The view is really beautiful..."

Jiang Ning stood by the window, where he could see Dihua Marsh in the distance, its scenery magnificent.

Shenhe embraced him from behind, pulling his head to rest against her chest, wearing a content and peaceful expression.

Jiang Ning looked up at Shenhe's expression with some confusion.

Honestly, shouldn't this be the guy's typical reaction? Why did it feel like their roles were reversed?

"Senior Sister, it seems Adeptus Xiao isn't here. I can't sense his presence."

Jiang Ning said.

Shenhe replied: "Perhaps there are demons somewhere that need dealing with."

Jiang Ning nodded: "Well, let's discuss it after dinner."

At that moment, Xiao was actually standing on the roof, concealing his presence while observing these two juniors. Before him stood Zhongli.

Xiao withdrew his gaze from the young couple and respectfully asked:

"Lord Rex Lapis, have you truly decided?"

Zhongli's arrival today had brought shocking news to Xiao.

"See that young man down there? The disciple of Cloud Retainer - he is my tentatively chosen successor... still under observation."

This was why Xiao had turned his attention to the youth.

Zhongli calmly gazed over the lands of Liyue before speaking slowly: "The erosion of time can wear down even the sturdiest of stone. Liyue is like my child, and it has grown up... What it needs now is no longer a parent who arranges every path, but a guardian who can watch over and support from behind. It's time for Liyue to welcome some fresh blood."

"Before he grows into his role, he will need my help and protection, and yours as well. However, unless there is mortal danger, you must not intervene."

Xiao took Zhongli's words to heart, bowing his head: "I shall follow the Lord's command."

Though Xiao was still unfamiliar with Jiang Ning, if this was Lord Rex Lapis's choice, it couldn't be wrong. Besides, the Lord must have his reasons for this decision.

In the distance came the roar of demons. Xiao's gaze sharpened, and he addressed Zhongli: "My Lord."

Zhongli nodded slightly: "Go."

The next instant, Xiao vanished like the wind.

Zhongli stood there for a long while before sighing: "I would buy osmanthus wine to share, if only old friends were still here..."

...

It wasn't until Jiang Ning had finished washing up and came to the rooftop platform for some fresh air that he saw Xiao.

"Adeptus Xiao, it's been a while."

Jiang Ning said.

Xiao nodded: "Mm..."

Jiang Ning continued: "By the way, I heard from Master Zhongli that you're troubled by demon remnants and resentful energy? I've confirmed that I can absorb them without side effects. Let me try?"

Xiao replied: "I've heard from Lor- from Mr. Zhongli about your unique constitution... In the past, I would never have let anyone attempt this, as anything related to demon resentment is too dangerous. But since it's you, and with Mr. Zhongli's assurance..."

"We can try."

Xiao extended his hand to Jiang Ning, who grasped it and mentally commanded: "Absorb."

However, he only managed to absorb a tiny amount.

Jiang Ning's tone became awkward: "Um, Adeptus Xiao, could you maybe... release your suppression of the resentful energy a bit?"

Xiao fell silent for a moment but chose to trust in his Lord's judgment. As he released his control, an indescribable pain and maddening thoughts filled his mind, his eyes even taking on a reddish tinge.

Yet he remained silent, which impressed Jiang Ning.

Jiang Ning immediately increased the strength and speed of absorption, drawing in the demon remnants like a parched sponge.

Xiao felt his body becoming increasingly lighter, his mind gradually clearing.

He instinctively looked up at Jiang Ning and was relieved to see him looking robust with clear eyes.

Truly remarkable...

Jiang Ning silently assessed what he had absorbed.

These demon remnants had no inherent powers or intelligence, nor memories of their past lives.

They were purely energy supplements.

Or perhaps they could be considered like materials in a game needed to break through equipment and level caps.

They could even gradually restore some of the original demon god's powers.

Though the amount was small, it was still progress.

Jiang Ning was pleased with this discovery.

It seemed he would have to compete with Xiao for jobs in the future.

This stuff was excellent nourishment.

After about two hours, Jiang Ning finished his absorption.

When all was done, Xiao felt refreshed in body and mind, while Jiang Ning was thoroughly satisfied.

"Alright, Adeptus Xiao, if you ever feel troubled again, feel free to find me."

Jiang Ning said, patting his chest.

Xiao nodded: "Thank you for this. It will help me fulfill my contract with Lord Rex Lapis for many more days... In the future, if you need anything, just call my name. Within Liyue's borders, I will come immediately."

Jiang Ning was delighted: "Many thanks."

Heh, another powerful ally gained.

Jiang Ning shifted and realized he was drenched in sweat - his earlier bath had been for nothing.

With no choice, he said: "Well, I should head back... Goodbye, Adeptus Xiao."

Xiao nodded slightly: "Go ahead, and... thank you."

...

When Jiang Ning returned to his room, he found Shenhe there, wearing a light white nightgown, her white hair cascading like a waterfall, slightly damp as if she'd just bathed. She sat quietly by the bed like a painting come to life.

"Where did you go?"

"I went to see Adeptus Xiao. But never mind that - I need another bath. We'll talk after."

Jiang Ning felt sticky all over.

Shenhe pursed her lips and started to undress.

"What are you doing?"

Shenhe said: "I haven't washed up either. Let's go together."

Jiang Ning: "..."

You're lying - your hair is still wet.

But Jiang Ning happily agreed anyway.