Seeing Guizhong's bus depart, Cloud Retainer immediately urged the others:
"Hurry up and board!"
"This one is leaving!"
Hearing her words, the remaining employees hesitated no longer.
They filed onto the bus, though the possibility of a crash still loomed in their minds.
But... it should be fine, right?
The adeptus would surely protect them.
Jiang Chen's subordinates were well aware of Cloud Retainer and Guizhong's true identities—
They were bona fide adepti.
Once everyone was seated, Cloud Retainer finally started the engine and drove off.
With Guizhong leading the way, she didn't have to worry about collisions.
Liyue Harbor's urban planning was still in its early stages, so the streets remained crowded.
Since vehicles weren't yet widespread, adjustments could be made gradually.
But once they left the city, the ride became much smoother.
The road connecting Liyue Harbor to Guili Plains had already been paved—
An eight-lane cement highway.
In the future, it might even be upgraded to asphalt.
The two buses carried their passengers for over an hour before finally exiting Liyue Harbor.
Outside the city, the road widened, and Guizhong and Cloud Retainer began accelerating.
For many, this was their first time riding such a vehicle.
Thankfully, Teyvatians had robust constitutions—no one suffered from motion sickness.
This was a huge relief.
If someone had gotten carsick, the entire bus would've been miserable.
Guizhong and Cloud Retainer's vehicles were also remarkably stable.
The ride was smooth, with minimal bumps, ensuring everyone's comfort.
Meanwhile, Jiang Chen and Havria had already arrived in Guili Plains.
Returning after so long, Jiang Chen found his home unchanged—
Though someone had been living there.
Keqing.
When she came to Guili Plains for work, Jiang Chen had given her his keys—
And the method to disable the security traps.
So during her stay, Keqing had been sleeping in his house.
Stepping inside, Jiang Chen noted that little had been altered.
Keqing likely only returned at night, spending her days at the construction site.
From his house, the developments in Guili Plains were clearly visible—
Even the excavators working on the docks across the way.
Mingyun Village was also undergoing renovations.
Until Guili Plains was fully built, Jiang Chen's team would operate from there.
The abandoned settlement already had plenty of structures—
They just needed refurbishing.
After surveying the area, Jiang Chen led Havria inside.
"Let's rest first. We'll deal with Guizhong and the others when they return tonight."
"I'll go fetch some seafood later."
Havria nodded.
"Alright."
She had no objections.
After being away so long, her room needed tidying.
With that thought, she headed upstairs.
Watching her leave, Jiang Chen smiled—
Then paused.
His expression shifted as he sensed something.
Glancing toward Dragonspine, he vanished in a shimmer of spirit particles.
At the foot of the mountains near Mingyun Village—
Aether stood quietly, his aura radiating outward.
Having learned of Jiang Chen's return, he had come personally.
This was a meeting he had long awaited.
He had even considered entering Liyue Harbor to find Jiang Chen—
But the thought of Morax made him reconsider.
The Geo Archon had retired, not died.
If the Abyss Order dared trespass, they'd get smited.
So Aether had waited, ordering his subordinates to monitor the area.
Unfortunately, Jiang Chen had stayed in Liyue Harbor until now.
Just as Aether's thoughts wandered, a voice suddenly spoke:
"Aren't you afraid Morax will come beat you up for flaring your energy like this?"
Aether looked up—
To see Jiang Chen materializing before him.
"Finally, we meet."
"Greetings."
"I am Aether."
He introduced himself immediately.
"I know."
"Lumine's brother."
"So you are avoiding her."
"She's searching the entire world for you, yet you're hiding."
"Tsk tsk. Just yesterday, she said she'd stab you twice when she sees you."
Jiang Chen grinned, thoroughly enjoying Aether's predicament.
...
Hearing this news, Aether froze.
That sounded exactly like something his sister would do.
This was bad.
He had to meet her soon—but carefully.
He already knew where she was—heading toward The Chasm.
When they met, he needed to be stern.
Only by acting solemn could he avoid getting stabbed on sight.
Otherwise… he could imagine the outcome.
Little sister searches the world for big brother.
Big brother hides like a coward.
There were matters to attend to in The Chasm anyway.
Perfect timing.
He'd go see her—and tell her to chill.
Yes. This was the plan.
Having decided, Aether turned his attention back to Jiang Chen.
Jiang Chen was studying him with equal curiosity.
"So, bro, what brings you here?"
He smiled, addressing his future brother-in-law.
Releasing his aura to summon Jiang Chen—
Surely, he had a reason?
"Nothing much."
"I just wanted to meet you."
"And, as her brother, ask about your relationship with my sister."
His purpose was that simple.
"We're dating!"
"I've successfully wooed her!"
Jiang Chen declared with utmost seriousness.
Their relationship had progressed just yesterday.
After thorough communication and exchanging certain things—
Their bond was now unshakable.
"HOLY SH—!"
"You actually got her?!"
Aether slammed his palm on his thigh, ecstatic.
Good!
Great!
Finally, his sister had a boyfriend!
Do you know how long I've waited?!
Because of that brat, I've lost all interest in women!
Now, at last, someone has taken her off my hands!
Aether was this close to rushing back to the Abyss to set off fireworks.
Observing his reaction, Jiang Chen's face twisted in confusion.
This… wasn't right.
Why was Aether happier than him?
He'd basically rolled up on a scooter to flex—
And Aether was cheering?!
"Ahem!"
"Congratulations!"
"We're family now."
Regaining his composure, Aether beamed at Jiang Chen like he was the messiah.
This was perfect.
Jiang Chen, however, fell into deep contemplation.
Something was very wrong here.