The first to arrive was Ganyu. When she saw Lu Lin, she shot him a reproachful look.
He naturally understood what she meant — she must have sensed what happened in the alley earlier.
Thick-skinned as ever, he stepped forward and gave her a big hug.
Though a little shy, Ganyu didn't pull away. After all, they had already embraced openly outside Yuehai Pavilion before — it was no secret anymore.
Next came Hu Tao, whom Ningguang had specifically summoned at Lu Lin's request.
Hu Tao was far more open. She skipped over cheerfully and wrapped Lu Lin in an enthusiastic hug.
Everyone seemed accustomed to this — except Keqing.
She stood there stunned, watching him embrace one woman after another.
What is going on?!
I leave Liyue for a few days to clear monsters, and when I return you've swept up half the women in the city?
Ganyu. Hu Tao. Ningguang. Xiangling.
Are there more?
Not yet… but you might be next.
After a while, the rest of Ningguang's capable subordinates arrived. After brief introductions, Lu Lin naturally took command and began issuing instructions in an orderly manner.
"Intelligence team — send elite operatives to Heyu Teahouse. It's a Fatui covert base. There's something important inside.""Keep an eye on the Northland Bank. They'll likely spread rumors. We can't stop it entirely, but we must track their movements.""There are Guizhong Ballistae at Mt. Tianheng's ancient city wall, right? Those will be crucial. I'll inspect them personally.""I'll also need these materials and a group of the finest craftsmen."
He handed Ningguang a list.
"No problem. I'll arrange it."
"And the Exuvia — you've hidden it?"
"It's been secretly transported and stored in—"
"Don't say it," Lu Lin interrupted. "Too many ears here. We shouldn't even know for now."
Keqing had already discussed governance contingencies with him before. Now they were simply implementing the plan step by step.
Problems would arise — that was natural. They would adjust and improve.
Watching him calmly direct everything, Ningguang felt something unfamiliar.
This… wasn't unpleasant.
She had always relied only on herself.
But today, relinquishing leadership and simply executing her role brought an unexpected sense of stability.
If only he weren't so shameless… when he focused on serious matters, he was actually quite impressive.
Mt. Tianheng – Guizhong Ballista
Keqing and Lu Lin stood before the massive ballista.
The Guizhong Ballista — originally designed by the God of Dust and modified by Cloud Retainer — a colossal war machine from the Archon War.
"It's well preserved. Some damage, but easily repairable," Lu Lin assessed.
Keqing, responsible for land and construction, knew every inch of Liyue. She had personally led him here.
"You even understand adeptal mechanisms?" she asked, surprised.
"Just a little."
They retrieved replacement parts from storage.
Thanks to [Innate Wisdom], Lu Lin had made rapid progress studying Guizhong's designs. Repairing the ballista wasn't difficult.
He worked intently while Keqing crouched beside him, passing tools and parts. Their coordination was smooth.
Soon, one ballista was fully restored.
"All set."
As Lu Lin stood, his gaze fell on Keqing.
She favored black stockings — her slender legs tightly wrapped in patterned silk.
While crouching, the fabric stretched into a breathtaking curve.
Her purple skirt concealed much — unfortunately.
Her waist was tightly cinched, emphasizing her upright posture and accentuating her figure.
Especially in that crouched position — the silhouette was striking.
From Lu Lin's estimation… not inferior to Ganyu's.
An extremely dangerous pose.
Keqing noticed his burning gaze and grew annoyed.
You've already entangled half of Liyue — and now you're eyeing me?
Still, this was a time for cooperation. She merely glared and prepared to stand.
But she had been crouching too long — her legs were numb.
When she rose abruptly, she lost balance and tipped backward.
They had been atop the ballista platform — nearly two meters high.
Before she hit the ground, Lu Lin moved swiftly and caught her securely.
"Careful. Are you alright?" he asked gently.
"I'm fine— you pervert! Where are your hands?!"
In the rush, his hand had landed somewhere unintended.
He didn't get angry — instead, he tightened his grip slightly.
The smooth silk and resilient softness combined under his fingers.
"Let go of me!"
He grinned mischievously.
"I just saved you, and this is how you thank me?"
She flushed red.
"Thank you for saving me. But taking advantage makes you a pervert!"
"Oh?" he teased. "Are you sure you don't like it?"
His enhanced touch, amplified by traits, had already stirred an unfamiliar sensation within her.
And for a fleeting moment—
Her breath hitched.
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