Despite Xingqiu's amused chuckling, Gu Sanqiu's expression didn't change in the slightest. The two of them quietly prepared, double-checking each other's disguises before heading out. No matter how lighthearted their banter, they were both crystal clear about the purpose of this trip.
Gu Sanqiu trusted Zhongli; the old man wouldn't bring up something like this without good reason.
As for Xingqiu, he trusted Gu Sanqiu—and the weight of the name Wangsheng Funeral Parlor. Having grown up alongside Gu Sanqiu, and sharing countless mischiefs and adventures, Xingqiu had an unshakable faith in both his friend and the institution.
If Zhongli's mention implied there was something suspicious, then the chances were extremely high that there really was. And even if it turned out to be nothing, wouldn't it just count as a well-deserved break after dealing with the ley line eruptions?
What's wrong with enjoying some music and dance after a hard day's work? Xingqiu thought. It's not like the Ministry of Civil Affairs—or my brother, for that matter—would come arrest me for this.
The venue in question was called Jihai Pavilion, the "dubious" dance hall Zhongli had mentioned. At first glance, the name revealed nothing amiss. It advertised imported performances and exotic music and was located near Guyun Stone Forest—perfectly reasonable for a high-end establishment.
"Not that anyone would openly name their place after the shady stuff they're doing," Gu Sanqiu quipped as he and Xingqiu approached, pulling their hats lower. To the casual observer, they looked like rich young scions sneaking out to explore the adult world behind their families' backs.
Well… they weren't wrong. Except one of them was the heir to a family fortune, and the other was the actual head of his household.
The two didn't make a fuss upon entering, nor did they demand anything extravagant like a private luxury suite. Only fools threw around their money in places like this, expecting to be treated as VIPs. That kind of behavior might catch the wrong kind of attention—and potentially blow their cover.
The smarter play was blending in with the regular crowd. This was a hotspot for curious visitors, after all; there was no way the pavilion could keep tabs on everyone.
If they were somehow monitoring every guest, whether by mundane means or spiritual ones, any detectable method would leave traces—and neither Gu Sanqiu nor Xingqiu was the type to overlook such signs.
As the performance began, Gu Sanqiu and Xingqiu settled into their roles with ease.
Xingqiu sipped tea while admiring the dancers. Gu Sanqiu, meanwhile, indulged in the food, all the while quietly extending his spiritual awareness throughout the hall.
If I end up glimpsing something awkward, my apologies to whomever's privacy I've just violated, Gu Sanqiu thought wryly.
"The new-style dances are engaging," Xingqiu remarked, his voice low and casual. "They're quick to captivate and don't demand much thought. Perfect for attracting younger audiences—and Liyue Harbor is full of ambitious young people looking to make a living."
Gu Sanqiu nodded, chewing on a piece of steamed fish.
"The layout's clever too," Xingqiu continued, gesturing subtly toward the seating arrangements. "Casual seating downstairs, exclusive booths upstairs. A practical mix of refinement and accessibility."
"'Refinement and accessibility'? And here I thought you were a writer, not a dictionary," Gu Sanqiu teased. "Is there something you're trying to say?"
Xingqiu set his teacup down, his expression turning reflective.
"Just thinking about the reforms we've been hearing whispers about. It seems the higher-ups are serious this time."
"Reforms, huh?" Gu Sanqiu shrugged. "Doesn't bother me one way or the other. Why are you so worked up over it?"
Xingqiu gave a small, tired laugh. "For a merchant family like mine, failing to adapt during times of change could spell disaster. Of course I'm concerned."
"Why not just ask me for advice, then?" Gu Sanqiu said with a smirk.
"Would you share it if I did?" Xingqiu shot back playfully.
Gu Sanqiu sighed, taking the teacup from Xingqiu's hand and snapping his fingers at a passing waiter.
"Bring us your best wine."
The waiter returned moments later with a sealed jar, and Gu Sanqiu poured Xingqiu a full cup.
"Listen," he said firmly, "what are you even worried about? This isn't your burden to bear."
Xingqiu frowned. "If I don't worry about it, who will? Even setting aside the family business, I can't ignore what affects my loved ones."
Gu Sanqiu raised a finger. "Then here's a simple solution."
Xingqiu leaned closer, intrigued. "What is it?"
"Follow me."
Gu Sanqiu grinned, raising his cup. "Stick with me, and you'll be just fine."
For a moment, Xingqiu stared, then burst into laughter. "You're impossible." He lifted his own cup and clinked it against Gu Sanqiu's.
"Cheers!"
Their bond was unshakable. Whatever challenges lay ahead, Gu Sanqiu would never abandon Xingqiu—and Xingqiu knew it. As childhood partners-in-mischief turned lifelong brothers-in-arms, they could face anything together.
Besides, with Gu Sanqiu being an Incense Bearer, and his sister Ningguang serving as the Tianquan of the Qixing, their connection offered undeniable security.
As the drinks flowed, Xingqiu loosened up, laughing heartily as he tossed a few loose gemstones to the waiter.
"For your trouble," he said with a dramatic flair, delighting in the reaction.
The waiter's eyes lit up as he scrambled to collect the stones, bowing profusely in gratitude. For a moment, it seemed as though Xingqiu had been elevated to future-Qixing status by sheer generosity.
"Ahh," Xingqiu sighed contentedly as he poured another round. "I've always wanted to try the whole 'flamboyant reward' thing from my stories. It's even more satisfying than I imagined!"
Gu Sanqiu shook his head, laughing. "Just don't make it a habit. You'll run out of stories and Mora before long."