Genshin Impact's Incense Burner Of Liyue [108]

Early the next morning, Fengyan led his Millelith soldiers out of the hotel, planning to mooch a breakfast at the Knights of Favonius' training grounds—and join in their drills while he was at it.

Alright, to be fair, he was mostly just borrowing the training grounds.

Strictly speaking, there wasn't much difference between the basic training routines of the Knights and the Millelith. But if the Millelith just decided to practice somewhere on their own, misunderstandings could arise.

As someone who'd served on Yujing Terrace for years, Feng Yan was not as stiff and unapproachable as some of his colleagues. Familiar with both flattery and veiled confrontations, he quickly gained the skills to turn those things to his advantage. In less than a day, he was already comfortably mingling with the Knights, even scoring free breakfast access.

Meanwhile, Gu Sanqiu was sprawled on a rooftop, basking in the early morning sunlight with a gray-and-white cat curled up on his stomach, its tail gently swaying, as if lazily swatting at the sun in the sky like a feather toy.

"Hmm, doesn't look like there's much to do today."

He sat up, lifting the cat into his arms and giving it a few gentle strokes.

The merchants were up not long after Feng Yan, rushing out as if their faces read, Outta my way—I've got money to make.

No one from the Knights had come to check in on them yet, clearly allowing them to wander as they pleased. He could guess why: the Fatui were waiting for Childe—their top fighter—to arrive, and certain people in Mondstadt were quietly looking into information on Decarabian.

All of it required time. Which meant that the Liyue delegation, as the first group to arrive in Mondstadt, had become the most leisurely of guests.

"Fine, might as well visit the Statue of the Anemo Archon. Sightseeing on the public tab is too good to pass up."

Scooping up the cat, Gu Sanqiu lightly dropped down from the roof. His furry companion didn't so much as twitch, simply nuzzling into his arms and settling down in a more comfortable position.

"Miss Sara, two Fisherman's Toasts, a Satisfying Salad, three Mondstadt Hash Browns, and if possible, a serving of raw fish for this little one here."

"Uh, apologies, but if you'd like the Sweet Madame, that may take a while. It's not a typical breakfast order."

"No worries, I've got nothing but time today."

The cat's tail gave him a light thwap, making him chuckle.

"Meow."

He couldn't understand cat-speak, but something told him he'd been scolded.

"Mortal, be grateful you're graced as my soft throne and carriage—take care not to overstep!"

"Wait, isn't this one of the Cat's Tail's employees?"

Sara approached with his food, offering a small smile as she set it down, hands resting on her knees as she greeted the cat.

"Remember me, little one?"

"Meow~"

The cat stretched out a long meow, then turned around, presenting her with its back and a gently swaying tail—a very clear signal to back off.

I remember you. You may step away.

"Quite the aloof one, isn't it?" Sara laughed. "But it's exactly why so many customers love it at the Cat's Tail. You must have a real way with animals, Mr. Liyue guest, for it to let you hold it like this."

"Isn't that a bit long? Just call me Gu Sanqiu or Mr. Gu."

"Very well, Mr. Gu. Here's your Mondstadt Hash Brown. You seem familiar with our dishes—have you visited Mondstadt before?"

"No, this is actually my first time out here. Most days, I'm just holed up at home."

Liyue's my home, right? Wandering the Guyun Stone Forest and the Minlin area counts as local sightseeing… or maybe?

"Seems you did your research."

Mornings were slow at Good Hunter, and Sara, finding Gu Sanqiu personable enough, didn't mind chatting a little longer—until he pulled out a jug labeled "medicine," which upon being uncorked, released a wave of rich alcohol.

If politeness hadn't stopped her, Sara was tempted to ask if one of Gu Sanqiu's parents was from Mondstadt.

"Don't judge—it's not uncommon to have a drink with breakfast back in Liyue."

Gu Sanqiu knew what she was thinking. Early drinking wasn't exactly his habit, but last night's trip to Angel's Share had evidently infected him with a little of Mondstadt's 'drinker's spirit.'

"Oh, is that so?"

Sara's smile returned with practiced ease. "Well, that's an interesting custom. But… isn't it usually the older folks who prefer that?"

Secret weapon—always-greet-customers-with-a-smile!

"Are you calling my habits old-fashioned?"

"Oh, not at all," she replied quickly.

Gu Sanqiu chuckled, setting the cat on the ground and, with a touch of Geo power, crafted a small dish from the earth to hold the fish he'd ordered for it.

A bit much, perhaps, but since Sara had kindly brought him the fish, he wasn't going to just set it on the ground. This wasn't home—it was a restaurant, after all.

"Meow~"

The cat tilted its head at the plate, then ignored the fish entirely, biting the plate instead.

"You can't eat that, and I doubt you'd manage to bite through it."

Gu Sanqiu sighed. The curiosity of these little felines seemed endless.

"Oh-ho, who would've thought—stepping out for breakfast and some Mondstadt delights, only to encounter a Vision-bearer."

A theatrical voice rang out behind him, instantly turning his expression from one of amused exasperation to cold disinterest.

The man's attire, primarily black with an elaborate mask, was an unmistakable indication.

"A Fatui? To what do I owe the pleasure?"

"Oh, not to worry—I was just remarking." The Fatui agent grinned. "I spotted a handsome and capable Vision-holder, a warrior of such fine stature, and wondered if you'd ever considered joining the Fatui?"

"Someone of your talent, someone who truly stands out in this age, would find no better place to prove yourself than in our ranks. What do you say?"

"No thanks."

With that, Gu Sanqiu turned his attention back to the cat, petting the still-munching feline.

Thwap.

"Impertinent mortal!"

"Sir," Sara cut in, "please refrain from soliciting in the restaurant. If you don't leave soon, I'll have to call the Knights of Favonius."

"Oh dear, it seems I'm not welcome here." Unfazed, the Fatui agent settled across from Gu Sanqiu.

"Well then, I suppose I'll order as a paying guest. A Mondstadt grilled fish, a meat pie, and an apple tart, if you'd be so kind."

"I'm not joining the Fatui, but perhaps you could help me with something?"

"Oh? Do tell. As long as the price is right, the Fatui are more than happy to oblige."

…

After Childe's antics, Gu Sanqiu was forming an interesting impression of the Fatui.

What is this, a bizarre cult?

"Help me deliver a letter to one of your Harbingers."

Gu Sanqiu's expression practically screamed malicious intent.

"Give it to… the Doctor."

---

Translator's Note

Hi, peasants! I'm so excited to share Star Rail: Starting with a Lyre, Living off Busking! Our favorite carefree bard, Venti, takes center stage in this Honkai: Star Rail adventure, landing in Belobog—the last bastion of preservation on Jarilo VI. With the fire inside fading and winds growing stagnant, can the spirit of freedom and the breeze of change rise once more?

If you're a fan of Genshin Impact or Honkai: Star Rail, you're gonna love this one. There's music, rebellion, and all the freedom-loving energy Venti brings to the table! Also, I've got two more stories lined up after this, so keep an eye out. As always, thank you so much for your support—y'all are the best!

Thanks for reading! Let me know if you spot any mistakes or inconsistencies!

If you wish to support me or read ahead here's a link! [patreon.com/WiseTL]