Genshin Impact's Incense Burner Of Liyue [181]
The two stood by the roaring flames and clanging sounds of the kitchen, their conversation blending effortlessly into the noise. Neither worried about anyone overhearing such ancient tales.
Even if someone did hear them, anyone knowledgeable would likely dismiss it as trivial anecdotes plucked from an obscure historical text.
"Oh, no wonder you didn't use a Hydro Vision," Gu Sanqiu continued, nodding in realization.
In a place like Liyue, Hydro Visions were hardly rare. But bringing in a master to drain the water source or summon a waterspout might cause more harm than good—especially if the waterspout pulled in dirt and debris, turning a clear spring into a muddy mess.
Sure, the adepti or even the Geo Archon could handle such matters, but they were preoccupied with their own affairs. Intervening in every minor issue would only encourage laziness among the mortals of that era.
"Your almond tofu is ready," Yanxiao announced, his weathered face as stoic as ever as he carried over the dish.
"And because you both look rather travel-worn, the house is offering you a complimentary serving of our specialty, Yan Du Xian. We hope you enjoy it."
"Oh? A freebie?" Gu Sanqiu's eyes lit up at the sight of the fragrant hotpot before him. However, he couldn't help but find this "buy the box, get the gemstone" approach a tad excessive.
"Yes, it's the boss's special order. Enjoy," Yanxiao replied, though his tone remained curt.
The chef's usual clientele at Wangshu Inn consisted of two notorious freeloaders: Xiao and Jiangxue, the mysterious fishing enthusiast and hidden expert. Seeing Gu Sanqiu appear wasn't surprising, but his arrival alongside Xiao? It felt like a neon sign flashing "Freeloader +1" over his head.
"Thank you so much," Gu Sanqiu said cheerfully, retrieving the almond tofu and hotpot from the tray. He then placed a silver note on it, casually adding, "Here's a tip—10,000 Mora. Redeemable at any major bank in Liyue."
"A tip?" Yanxiao squinted at the note, verifying its authenticity. His initial indifference shifted to a glimmer of respect for the generous patron.
"This is too much, sir. I'll get your change—"
"No need," Gu Sanqiu interrupted with a wave of his hand. "Carrying too much loose change is inconvenient. It's not like I plan to stuff it into a sack and throw it at someone."
"...Well, if you insist. I'll bring you two more side dishes," Yanxiao said, visibly pleased.
"Thank you for the trouble."
"Not at all. Customer satisfaction is our priority."
Once Yanxiao left, Xiao turned to Gu Sanqiu. "Given the current cost of living, don't you think 20,000 Mora is excessive?"
"It's fine. Money isn't an issue," Gu Sanqiu replied nonchalantly. "Between teaching Millelith soldiers, selling supplements to merchants, and occasionally auctioning off rare elixirs disguised as bait, I make more than enough."
He began counting off his sources of income on his fingers. "And that's not even including my family's generations of wealth. This kind of tip is nothing."
"I mean, did you see his sour expression earlier? If this makes everyone happier, it's worth it. Plus, I prefer dining in peace."
"Hmm, fair enough," Xiao conceded.
"Let's not dwell on that," Gu Sanqiu said, pouring a drink for Xiao. "Xiao, you should visit my place sometime. We can invite some friends for a meal—or I can cook for everyone myself."
The suggestion wasn't entirely selfless. Xiao's combat prowess made him an ideal ally. But more than that, Gu Sanqiu wanted to dispel Xiao's notion that the Gu family specialized in "cursed culinary experiments."
Above all, he wanted to provide a resting place for this unsung protector of Liyue.
"If time permits, I'll consider it."
[Item: Wild Juice Type II]Origin: Wilderness Realm
Notes: Compared to regular juices, this one has less sweetness but boasts a tartness layered with an earthy aroma. Popular among older adults and those seeking a substitute during alcohol withdrawals.
"This juice..." Xiao took a sip. "It's much better than what your ancestors made."
"Of course!" Gu Sanqiu exclaimed, exasperated. "That wasn't juice—it was chemical warfare!"
Xiao's lips twitched, amused. Meanwhile, Yanxiao returned with the promised side dishes. Though his demeanor hinted at a rough past, his culinary skills rivaled the best chefs in Liyue Harbor.
"This is delicious," Gu Sanqiu said, savoring a bite.
After the meal, he stretched leisurely. "Xiao, do you have plans later?"
"No. The trial went well, so the rest is up to you. There's nothing more I can do."
Xiao regarded him seriously. "Also, unless absolutely necessary, don't seek me out."
"Got it." Gu Sanqiu nodded earnestly. They weren't invisible spirits; frequent meetings would inevitably draw attention. The last thing Xiao needed was curious "seekers of immortality" disrupting his peace.
"But," Xiao added, his voice softening, "if you encounter a challenge you cannot overcome, call my name. I will come."
!!!
Did... did he just get a "summon me anytime" pass?
Before he could celebrate, Xiao placed a hand on his shoulder.
"However, knowing your family's tendencies, think twice before calling me for trivial matters."
...
With that, Xiao vanished in a flash of green light. It took Gu Sanqiu a moment to process the unspoken warning: Don't mess around, or else.
Had his ancestors' reputation just sabotaged him from beyond the grave?
"Excuse me, sir."
Filgudette, the cheerful receptionist, approached with a smile that didn't quite reach her eyes. "I hate to interrupt, but could you settle your bill?"
"Oh, sure." Gu Sanqiu handed over another silver note worth 10,000 Mora.
Still smiling, Filgudette chirped, "That's not enough~."
"Pardon?"
"Our head chef mentioned you're rather wealthy. Would you mind clearing this gentleman's outstanding tab as well? We're just a humble inn, after all. We can't afford too many debts."
She gestured to Xiao's now-empty seat.
Gu Sanqiu suddenly understood why Xiao had left so quickly. That sly adeptus.
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T/N: It feels so weird translating this again, since It's been almost a month...? Since I took a break from it but now time to create more stockpiles!
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