For Him, Hu Tao Stands Up to the Adepti!

"Ganyu, you can hand that little one over to us. Just name your reward," one of the Adepti proposed.

As protectors of Liyue, upon discovering Lin Yuan's incredible talent, they had softened their earlier stance.

They didn't want Lin Yuan to grow wild in the mortal realm and were contemplating taking him back to the Adepti to teach him their arts.

Hu Tao instantly frowned, puffing up her cheeks in anger. "Why does everyone want to take him away? He's a member of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor! No matter what rewards you offer, I won't agree!"

Even though the Adepti were rumored to possess many magical treasures, Hu Tao felt no temptation. To her, the traditions of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor, passed down through generations, were far more important.

Since Lin Yuan was part of the parlor, she would never let anyone take him away.

Feeling Hu Tao's determination, Lin Yuan was somewhat touched. This girl might be whimsical and had played tricks on him, but she truly considered him family.

Ganyu, looking conflicted, gently said, "Honorable Adepti, Hu Tao and this little one are like family. Perhaps it's best to let her care for him?"

Liuyun, displeased, raised her long neck and replied, "Ganyu, you should know better than anyone that the teachings of the Adepti are far superior to merely raising him in this way."

Ganyu paused, her expression troubled.

Having been raised by Liuyun, she understood that giving Lin Yuan to the Adepti for training was indeed the best path for him to grow strong.

Other Adepti echoed, "We are merely looking out for the dragon's innate gifts. We don't want him to be wasted among mortals."

"You naive girl, don't you see the immense potential in this dragon? This is a matter of Liyue's future."

"For the sake of Liyue, if you don't voluntarily hand him over, don't blame us for using our powers to pressure you."

Faced with the relentless pressure from the Adepti, Hu Tao remained unfazed. She looked down at Lin Yuan and asked, "What do you want, little one? Do you want to stay with the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor, or go with these Adepti?"

"Waaah!"

Lin Yuan opened his mouth and let out a young dragon's roar, tugging at Hu Tao's Wangsheng robe with his little claws.

For the first time, Hu Tao understood his intention. Narrowing her eyes, she said, "Alright, since you've chosen the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor, I won't let them take you away!"

With that, she cradled Lin Yuan in one arm and pulled out her uniquely designed staff—the Hakushin Oath.

With her staff ready, Hu Tao was prepared to stand her ground against the Adepti.

Even though the opponents were immensely powerful, Hu Tao showed no fear, gripping the staff firmly.

Seeing her stance, the Adepti let out a roar and said, "Is this little girl determined to fight rather than hand over the dragon?"

"Brave of you, but we'll show you the true might of the Adepti."

"Don't worry, we won't harm mortals. We'll make sure you're unable to fight instead."

The Adepti's power surged as they prepared to use their techniques against Hu Tao, intending to subdue her before any trouble arose.

With a wave of her Hakushin Oath, flames swirled around her, and fire butterflies danced in the air.

"Hey, are you all really going to gang up on a mere mortal? I don't mind, but it wouldn't be very dignified for you Adepti," she said with a mischievous grin.

In her mind, Hu Tao was quickly devising a strategy, knowing well that even with Lin Yuan's help, they stood no chance against the Adepti.

To protect Lin Yuan, she figured her best option was to find a way to escape for now.

However, slipping away under the Adepti's watchful eyes seemed nearly impossible.

As she brainstormed, Liuyun, the Moon Carver, spoke up, "The girl has a point. How about one of us fights you instead?"

The other Adepti agreed, knowing that no matter who faced Hu Tao, the outcome would be the same.

Liuyun stepped forward and declared, "I shall take you on!"

Ganyu stood between Hu Tao and Liuyun, torn. One was her mentor, and the other was the protector of the new Geo Archon.

Whichever side lost was a scenario she wanted to avoid.

After a moment of internal conflict, Ganyu spoke to Liuyun, "Is there truly no way to settle this peacefully?"

Liuyun pondered for a moment and then replied reluctantly, "Since Ganyu has asked, I'll give you one last chance."

"Even if we take him back to the Adepti, I promise he can return to visit you once a year. How does that sound?"

This was clearly the biggest concession Liuyun could offer.

Hu Tao turned her head defiantly, saying, "No way! Even a day away from this lucky charm might affect the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor's fortunes!"

Liuyun sighed, "I've given you a chance. If you refuse, then we shall fight."

Ganyu glanced around anxiously, unsure of what to do next.

Hu Tao tightened her grip on the Hakushin Oath, her expression tense.

The members of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor held their breath, wishing to assist Hu Tao but knowing their strength was inadequate, so they could only silently pray for a miracle.

Just as the confrontation was about to erupt, the Adepti suddenly froze, their expressions changing as if they had heard something, and they grew respectful.

Hu Tao and Ganyu exchanged puzzled looks, unsure of what had happened.

The atmosphere turned eerily quiet.

After a moment, the Adepti resumed their composure.

Liuyun looked at Hu Tao and said, "You are Hu Tao, correct? I will remember you. You may take care of this little one."

Everyone was taken aback by Liuyun's words.

Hu Tao was bewildered, wondering why the previous display of force had suddenly shifted.

However, at this moment, Liuyun's words were exactly what she wanted to hear.

Without saying much, she nodded silently.

The other Adepti solemnly added, "Even while he's in the mortal realm, don't let him become too spoiled."

"We still stand by our original intent. Take good care of him, or else…"

With that, the Adepti shot a final, proud glance at Hu Tao and Lin Yuan before using their powers to soar into the clouds, disappearing in an instant.

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A/N:

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