FirstWinterLight: And as Xiangling's feelings deepen, who knows how this will affect the MC's standing in her group? Speaking of, while Xingqiu will do a thing or two, it's really another Hydro user you gotta look out for...
ZoyeZest: You want to make a comic about a guy hypnotizing multiple women for sexual activities. Somehow I doubt that.
CornyChiWah: More uses of that in this very chapter!
sh1rog4n3: Oh this fic isn't going anywhere, count on that.

I've totally been forgetting this, but thanks for over ninety favs and 120 follows!

"Good morning Keqing…." Is it rude to yawn at someone? "You're up…painfully early. As expected."

"S-sorry! A-Apologies! It's just, ah, t-this trip is going to take the day, so I had to go to the Jade Chamber, tell them that I was going to Qingce Village, and grab the necessary paperwork! I-Important preparations, you see…I-I hope….?"

"Yeah, yeah, I know…" Based on everything Keqing has shown herself to be, there was no doubt this is what she'd do. And loathe as I was to leave my bed that early, I had to match that dedication. So one introduction to a nearly-dark version of Liyue Harbor later, here I am. This also meant I had to skim out on breakfast at Wanmin, going for crappy hotel food instead.

Nonetheless, proceeding to the meeting point and finding Keqing was easy- she really stood out, after all, being the only person around Bubu Pharmacy. Didn't think that the exit back there would prove helpful, nice.

"Keqing? Are there any mountains near Mt. Aocang, but closer to Liyue?"
"T-There is. Mt. Hulao."

Perfect~ Our destination was set! Oh and also-

"Want to hold hands?"
"W-W-What?! B-b-but I could never im-impose upon you!"
"Suit yourself~"

Yup, love that embarrassed tone- oh? Suddenly my hand was, indeed, linked around Keqing's. Her fingers are slim, and they desperately hold onto mine for all they're worth. How adorable~

"E-enough procrastinating… L-L-let's go…!" And just like that, I was dragged out of the city by my clingy girlfriend. Although, hm, didn't I make Ganyu feel similar about me…. Oooh…! Wonder if I can make them fight over me, now THAT'D be incredible! Yet another reason to go through with this plan- it just gets better and better~

As for what I mean by the 'plan', weeeelllll….

"So let me attempt to summarize your trip…! You were forced into….ah~…. T-taking Xiangling to Mt. Aocang, m….met…. S-Shenhe, implanted in her an order to- ahn!- b-begin moving totheharborin time for Lan….unh!… tern Rite! - b-before finally leaving yourself. …A-Am I missing- heeee! - a-any…anythiing.. i-important…?"

"Got it in one~" I wink. "Although Xiangling didn't force me to bring her, she just came along. And what a good thing too!- after all, it's only because of her that Shenhe isn't merely a figment of my imagination… saw her one time, then never again… now that would have sucked~ Especially now knowing how much of a looker she is~"

"I-I see… Then in that case…that could be brilliant… Sounds like you've been quite-"

SMACK

"Bus-ssssy….! H-haaah…ahhhnn…."

"Hey Keqing?" My signature grin starts its' invasion. "Do you not think this is, oh, I don't know~, a little weird? Just a bit?"

"E-Ex…plain yourself."

"You're one of the most prominent figures in Liyue- a whole lot of people look up to you and show tremendous respect~ Yet here you are, in your birthday suit, on the lap of a Fontanian you've known for only a month~ Doesn't that strike you as strange?

In response to my completely logical and humiliating point, the woman in question merely scoffs. "Were you not paying attention at all? This is traditional Liyue custom, it's how we're supposed to welcome our guests. Really… my only point of hesitation is determining why it took me so long to realize I had not yet provided you the opportunity. Please forgive the delay."

"It's completely fine I assure you. But does such tradition even extend to me smacking your ass and feeling your chest?" Speaking of…

"Of c- ahn!~ course it does. We may not be Mondstadt, but w-we encourage every guest to… b-briiiing! ….Aah- Their traditions over with t-them! It will only make Li- Liyue…! S-s-stronger in all senses….ohhh goddds…!"

Oh man, this is rich! And to think it's all improv too~ When I went into her house again, I initially combined the two orders I gave outside into 'do a strip dance Keqing'. Well, big fucking mistake, the Yuheng can't dance for shit! So instead of that-

"Keqing, you will be aware of everything that happens here. But you will treat it all, no matter how absurd, like it's absolutely, perfectly normal. Just another day in LIyue- nothing will seem inappropriate, classless, rude, or incorrect in any way. Got it?"

"Understood."

So exposing your lovely firm pair of breasts and ass? Keqing had nooooo objections~ Likewise for using that same hot piece of ass to grind against my legs. And of course, hands leaving red stinging marks on her very supple flesh? Well if I were to question that, I'd probably get scolded for asking another obvious point! But rest assured, it's allowed. Evidence?

:SMACK:

"A-Aiii-hhhn!"

I rest my case- and the 'Liyue tradition' bullshit is great. With that justification, nothing is off the table.

"Aeeiiihhhh!"

God damn~ Those cheeks can jig-gle! And that shriek was one for the heavens~

"You're a little masochist, ain'tcha Keqing~?"
"I-I am not…!"

Responding to that with something like 'I've got a stain on my pants that says otherwise' was on the tip of my lips, but immediately after saying that, Keqing gets off my lap and turns around before sitting right back down, brand new reddened face looking at me in defeat. Ah~ I love these little rules she still has to follow! This works well for differentiating her from Ganyu too, the way seeing her expressions is in contrast to the latter's absolute obedience. And as for Shenhe…

Well Shenhe I'll just fuck senseless. Over and over again.

"By the way Keqing, when you said my plan with Shenhe was 'brilliant', what did you mean?" My right hand creeps up her smooth stomach, coming to a rest with a certain plump red tip within its' grasp.

"Did you not do it to assist me in bringing Ganyu here?"

I pause. "What are you talking about?"

"If I recall correctly, you would like for me to persuade Ninggaung into allowing Ganyu to work in a much more accessible location, correct? Namely my house?"
"Yeah. And now that you've gotten used to this 'state', you could have that little conversation whenever you wish."
"Patience please. I have been missing an important element until this very moment. This is a fortunate coincidence."

Cocking my head now. "Alright now you explain yourself."

With a sigh as if she's speaking obvious facts- "Urgency. It's all well and good to convince Ningguang that Ganyu needs a fresh change of scenery, but Lantern Rite complicates matters, assuredly delaying any implementation. However, if I were to report that Shenhe, someone with a strong connection to Ganyu, has been sighted in Liyue now, that may be what we need."

"I see, play up the angle of Shenhe only being here for Lantern Rite. And that it would be such a big fat shame if Ganyu were to miss interacting with her due to being cooped up in the Jade Chamber all day~"

"Crude language I would not use." Keqing lectures. "But correct in essence. Ningguang knows firsthand how much Ganyu works, to the point of self-destruction- a fact which I'm sure causes her no end of dismay. She also knows how unlikely a Shenhe appearance is and what the average person thinks of her. Those two elements, combined with trusting in the working relationship between me and Ganyu, is the most probable way to ensure success."

"Do you think you could convince her now then?" The quicker I can my hands on Ganyu again, the better~

"Not quite." She draws a groan out of me with that. "It would help to have someone else see Shenhe in the proximity of the city, ideally a guard who would report this to one of us. With an eyewitness account, that should be enough for a convincing argument. For ideal efficiency, we should take advantage of your 'order' and meet up with Shenhe sooner rather than later.."

"Definitely. So tomorrow, you'll come with me!"
"…I will not, there are assignments I must take care of."

Sigh…. I didn't appreciate that tone, bitch. Here we go again~

"Keqing, look here. You will handle these assignments while on the road with me, right?
"What are you saying? My tasks require… concentration… I can't…. Um, can't…."

Good girl, just sway along and listen….

"But you can, can't you Keqing? You're the Yuheng after all."
"…B-but… would be…. Highly irregular…"

"Don't worry~ You'd be with me after all."
"With y-you…?"
"Yup. And we all know, there's nothing in the world you love doing more than spending time with me~"
"Really…?"
"Look closer and you'll see."

I have a very good view of Keqing's body; firm breasts, red obedient] eyes, and straight posture to provide a treat. But getting rewarded with tension leaking, shoulders slumping, and an eventual loopy smile forming is always better.

"Y-yessshhh… of courssse…. I love being with you…"

"Thought so." SNAP

"T-tomorrow I'll grab my work and meet you in town…" Keqing returns to her senses, but with a noticeable blush. "We're not taking the main gate though, considering you just returned with Xiangling, that might seem strange."

"Good plan."

"Thank-"

SMACK
"Y-ooahhoouuuuu!" She can't dance, but certainly can sing~! Man Liyue hospitality is the best, maybe I should make this a hab-

*Knock-knock*
"Keqing?"

Someone's at the door.

…OH SHIT SOMEONE'S AT THE DOOR!

"Ah, yes?! W-who is it?" Keqing looks at me, mirroring my own confusion.

"Yanfei. …Is everything ok?"

Oh for the love of- now it's the lawyer's turn to get involved!? Well, crap, I can't just pop up here, she's definitely too smart for that. New plan!

Whispering furiously the instructions- "Keqing, get changed as fast as you can…! Talk with Yanfei, and do NOT mention I'm here!"
"I understand. …Yes, everything's fine! Give me a minute!"

Both of us scramble in opposite directions, her to get her clothes, me to hide myself. Yanfei is the adepti…right, I don't know if they have good hearing or not! Second floor is out to be safe, so let's just hop in a room and try to listen in…!

A quick peek reveals Keqing is good to go… well, only if that meant looking like a trainwreck and limping like a train actually wrecked you! Should NOT have gone that hard…

"Keqing, good evening- wait, are you ok? You look unwell."

"….I-I'm fine, thank you for your concern. What brings you here?"

Do not let her in Keqing, whatever you do.

"…If you say so…. W-well you see, I was just in the area to talk to Granny again- been a while you know? The law doesn't take a break for the holidays~"

"Ah yes, how is Madam Ping? Well I would hope?"

"As fit as a fiddle! I do wonder how she does it…! I have a hard enough time keeping up my clients…and, of course, her."
"Know that the harsh emphasis you chose to place is effectively countered by that smile~"

"W-well, um, yes! So as I was saying, I was about to retire for the night, when I heard… some strange noises coming nearby."

Fuck. I want to bash my face in. Did I really just fuck up this again? I remember Xiangling mentioning something about Ganyu being overheard after I was done with her. Gonna need someway to counter this eventually-

"Strange noises?"
"Yes, really unexpected at this part of town I know… but I swear! Think some kids are off causing trouble?"

"..I do apologize Yanfei."
"Hm?'

"While reviewing a particularly challenging part of Lantern Rite, I appear to have let my frustrations get the better of me. A-as such, the noises made during the stress relief session afterwards were clearly much louder than I thought they would be. I'm sorry for causing you any concern."

"S-stress relief?!"

"Yes? I have recently, shall we say, discovered the importance of taking time to unwind, especially after period of great distress. Now, I am still experimenting with various techniques, and my methods may be a bit… unorthodox, but the results have been… promising so far. Pleasurable ways to spend the night."

"…Unorthodox? …Wait, pleasure….?! Then, your appearance…!"

Huh? Why is Yanfei so frantic-
…..…Is she thinking that Keqing was-

"S-s-say Keqing, you live alone still?"
"? Your change in topic is interesting… but yes, I do."
"I-I… see…oh Archons above….."

OH, she TOTALLY does. But- I wonder if that's necessarily a bad thing…

"W-w-well then, Madam Yuheng, p-please forgive me for… intruding!"
"But as I just said-"
"N-no! Er, I mean, I'm terribly sorry for interrupting t-this… s-sacred part of the day- w-wait, what am I saying?! N-no more, g-good evening to you!"

Even with my hearing muted by a wall, I can clearly make out a bunch of footsteps fade away into the night, sounding positively crazed and just trampling over anything needed to get the hell out of this situation. Pfft, kind of funny actually- lawyers know how to keep secrets, Keqing's reputation will be intact. If it was Hu Tao though, I'd probably be hearing about the 'master baiter' by tomorrow~ You're so lucky Keqing!

A few seconds pass with no indication we'll be getting another visitor…

"You can come out now, Yanfei is gone."

"R-right.." That was pretty unnerving… also kind of thrilling if I'm honest. Still probably not the kind of thing I should be inviting though; this is supposed to be our base!

"S-shall we continue…?" She asks.

YES YES YES-
"…I don't think we should."
Oh come on! What am I doing-

…Actually, yeah, probably shouldn't push my luck tonight after that close shave- this was a fun distraction, and bonus on bonus, I even learned something important… urgency huh? Making sure that Shenhe can be seen by others, Ningguang included... A bit roundabout, but having access to Ganyu at all times- nothing isn't worth that~ So I will, for once, exercise patience. All for my lovely Cryo goddess!

Although, doesn't that apply to Shenhe now too? Why are there so many gorgeous women in Liyue anyway?

And that is where things stand now. Me, walking through the Liyue wilderness, on the way to a named mountain some distance away from any civilization, in the hopes of fighting a Cryo beauty at its' peak. I'm even traveling with a female companion of some renown- all very clear similarities, yes yes. Likewise, the obvious difference is that instead of a highly emotional, cute but not really attractive chef defying my pre-established beliefs of the gods favor, it's with a very calm, very beautiful and sexy woman at my side, walking in stride hand-in-hand like we're an aimless couple out on a mindless stroll~

"A-are you ok? Am I moving too fast….?"

Hm, 'mindless' is pulling its' weight in that sentence! A very calm, very beautiful, and very mindless woman with me now- that's just my perfect kind of day, and if everything aligns up as its' supposed too, that will be happening a lot more extremely soon~! The very thought excites me, and a couple slaps to Keqing's cheeks make all that pent-up energy dissipate nicely.

"A-AHNNN~!"
Bonus! She can scream as loud as she wants to now! Any other travelers will just mistake the Yuheng's yelps for a hillichurl~

But if we're speaking on the point of 'mindless', it occurs to me how many possibilities there are with stretching Keqing's mental state. Currently, she's going along with everything, completely enamored with me… but I could also do what I did before and make her only vaguely aware of how wrong it all is. Upping that realization to 'normal', while still having her follow my instructions WOULD be quite appealing though…

"Keqing, strip for me."
"WHAT?! What is wrong with- how DARE you say that! Who do you think you are?! I am NOT doing-"
"…Bold panties, those are~ Purple- you know there are other fucking colors right?"
"Ah-! What… WHAT THE FUCK?! Why am I- Why can't I stop?! ….YOU…."
"Oh shut up. Do not speak until I say you can."

And then I continue my day, full of eagerness and a naked red-as-every-tomato-ever Keqing. But that sounds wonderful, not least of which because it completely humiliates her, clinching a form of revenge… and no, until I completely break this woman, I won't be over that. But that's just one possibility out of many- a similar one is to have her react to my command negatively still, but then withdraw it with a half-assed apology- while having the 'oblivious' order still be followed.

"I'm sorry, that was a joke from Fontaine~"
"….What kind of joke do you people- rrrgh, whatever. That was EXTREMELY inappropriate you know, but I suppose I can let you off the hook for your good behavior."
"Oh yes~ Mm-hm, sure, fine, whatever you say."
"…Why are you staring at me so intently?"
"Ohhh, no reason~ Just, is it me or is it a little chilly?"
"Hm, now that you mention it… the wind is particularly cutting. How strange, I was fine mere moments ago…"

"The breeze is probably appreciating your ass most of anyone~"

Also appealing. How much would her tits flap in the wind? It'd be quite a sight! And of course, with how complicated we humans are, if I ever wanted to unwind and not deal with anyone's bullshit, I could make her act like the cat she already looks like, like a dog, a frog, or even a hilichurl~ I could make her unbearably horny, utterly depraved and craving my cock so much that's all she can think about... or go the total opposite, silent, unresponsive, and unresisting as she gives it all up, body, soul and will, to literally anything I request… a prelude of Ganyu and Shenhe's fate, you could say. So many choices that it kind of makes my head spin~

But however fun these individual choices are for a time, I don't think I'll ever permanently change Keqing so radically. After all her personality of being a stuck-up bit- ahem, I mean painfully meticulous, is what makes this shit so fun in the first place! Well, that and the slim sexy body she's packing~

(For the record, I am explicitly NOT talking about the landscape as we proceed northward and out of the harbor- what is there to mention on that front? It's literally the exact same sight I saw with Xiangling both on the way to Mt. Aocang and back again, same trees, same marked and faded paths, same sparse hillichurl camps that will gradually get more frequent the further we go. It hasn't changed in the twenty-four hours, shocker. Plus Keqing is not in the conversationist mood unlike Xiangling, opting for the 'I can't believe I'm h-h-holding h-his h-h-hand' one instead. Or at least, assumedly so based on the blush she grows whenever I catch her looking~)

Alright, let's narrow the topic from 'what I could make Keqing do' to 'what have I already changed about her'. If memory serves:

Keqing has a very positive opinion of me, almost at actual-crush level.
If Keqing ever lies to me, she will turn around and expose her ass. Okay that second part isn't actually the case but it DOES feel that way.
If she ever sees a hillichurl, she will-

Huh.

I think I just found a way to make this trip interesting~

"W-where are we going anyway? The path is back that way…!"

"I know, I know! Just keep following me, one of them should be around here somewhere…"

"Again, what is 'them'?'

"You'll see, now where is it- A-HA! There we go~!"

I reverse myself back around one of Liyue's many mountains of stone, right into the face of Keqing, who of course, blushes and turns away, a fact which brings me to chuckle. I don't think what I led us to is the same one Xiangling did on our trip, this feels earlier in our path to the mountain.

"Ohhh Keqing~?" I smile wide. "Please take a look over there and tell me what you see."

"O-Ok…?" One flustered response, and she cautiously crosses the elevated terrain. "Just a hillichurl encampment? That's it, right?"

"Keep watching."

"I don't understa-"

Not very unexpected or mysterious, I know, but Keqing falls completely silent in a second. She's not returning to normal, nor is she remaining an embarrassed mess. Instead, something new graces my eyes- out of just the ether in the air, a magnificent sword, decked in a stunning light-green hue appears. It reflects off the Liyue sky, commanding the attention of those around. A craftsman I am not, but the immaculate care of the blade is clear to see, no chips or cracks anywhere, it's almost regal, a weapon for a king or queen. Perfect- much like the woman holding its' base strives to be.

I only have a split-second to do this, but I manage to get a look at the Yuheng's face. Hollow red eyes to be sure, and the lines on her normally-flawless skin grow thick with disapproval, then irritation, then plain annoyance. A growing frown clearly becomes an outright scowl…

One sharp breath is taken.
And Keqing explodes forward, as fast as the Electro powers surging within her would have you believe.

After all, she caught a hillichurl in her sight… and once she has-

"YHAAH!? IKA?!- AAAA"

-No such beast can be allowed to live.

The next few minutes are an absolute treat for the ears~ One distressed yelp into the sky gets abruptly cut with a sharp slice, turning into a futile painful shrill. Similar-sounding panic rings out short after, easily more than the two I found with Xiangling. A babble of nonsensical words come next, meaning nothing to me, and are swiftly replaced by more screaming. Howling wind combine with random bolts of Electro to kill all noises, slowly and meticulously. One by one, the remaining voices get easier to parse through, till it's clear there's only a few beasts left.

An absolute flurry of purple streaks rises past the camp's wall, all tickling the sky, sparking more shouts of pure agony. Little did whoever made that noise would know, it would be the final noise of the slaughter. An eerie silence permeates.

So I just skip right in~

…Man, it's a good thing hillichurls don't bleed, opting for more of the 'fading into dust' approach. My shoes remain unstained then, and funnily enough, that really applies for the rest of the area. Aside from one or two singe marks on the nearby wood, there's limited evidence of any kind of battle. On the bright side, that makes finding Keqing even easier than it already is- she's chilling out in the hillichurl's hut, back to me and sword at her side. Not even breathing heavy, that's how effective she was!

"Well done!" As I put my hand on her shoulder, it's time for my eyes to be unknowingly rewarded as well. In the darkened shelter of the hut, Keqing's eyes truly appear to glow, a hauntingly-attractive piercing red glare. What I also catch though, is a bit of a prideful smile, almost gleeful. Satisfied at a job well-done? Or something else…?

"A-AH!" Questions that I won't get an answer to, as the alluring color seems to drain from her pupils and flood her cheeks instead. Embarrassed, she shrinks right back down, lone finger scratching her cheek before a shy 'thanks' is muttered. Schoolgirl Keqing is back~ She's so endearing like this… almost too endearing for one man to handle.

"That's it~ As a reward for a job well done, we're doing it right now! Take off your-"

"W-wait! P-p-please!" Keqing cries in a hurry. "I-If it's all the same to you, can I request we postpone…doing that…until we finish our objectives?"

"Hm?"

"I-It's just that… I would prefer to know that a job is accomplished before engaging in such… intimate acts. What do you think?"

….

"Are you going to respond? ….P-please?"

Oh, Keqing… do you really not know any better? Who holds the cards here? It's NOT your place to decide when and where I get to screw you~ That's literally the entire point of this fucking trip! Granted moreso for one beautiful horned lady, but still- If I want you to strip naked, you strip naked. If I want you to behave like a dog, then I better be hearing some 'arfs' in the next five seconds. And if I want to you to bend over and take it up the ass, bubblebutt, you damn well will~

"…A-are….you okay…?"

"SURE AM~" With a smile stretching my ears~ "Okay Keqing~! We'll wait until after all this is over! It's what you wish for after all~! And I just love to accommodate you!"

"T-thank you… Ahem!"

Quickly spinning around me, the sunlight welcomes her back into its' embrace. I just trudge behind, just a tad… miffed. If only there was a way to get back at her for this defiance~

Ha.

SNAP.
"Keqing, I'm going to finally take you up on your offer from earlier. Carry me to our destination."

"….Yes….As you wish."

I've heard about animals trained for delivery purposes of course, but I always thought that was limited to smaller, agile ones, taking paths where others cannot. Like pidgeons and other birds, lucky guys get the whole skies to themselves- for now at least, weird abandoned airship notwithstanding. But I see now that I was all wrong, another mode of transportation has revealed itself- carried by a catgirl! It's fast, it's warm, and it's OH-SO entertaining to boot! Coping a feel has never been so easy- Try it today!

Ok that's enough advertising. Honestly if any Liyue citizens saw me riding their Yuheng like a horse, pretty sure they'd instantly die from the shock- and die somehow double as fast if they saw my hands were placed for the majority of this free ride. Hey, she's already getting speared by my no-so-little friend down there, what's a pair of mitts on her chest gonna do~? However as fast as Keqing might be, she can't cut a two-day trip in half- gonna have to think of an excuse for Xiangling… We are forced to stop for the night, well into the more mountainous part of the region. Mt. Hu Lao is close, a fact that I confirm with the worn-down Electro woman, and the excitement is palpable- to know just how close I am to seeing Shenhe again, joyous~

Oh yeah, and our dinner is some stupid 'max efficiency sandwich' or some bullshit like that. It's not bad but eeeh- anyway!

"Hey Keqing?"
"Hm?"

"…Hypothetically, if someone got in trouble in Liyue Harbor, who would they have to talk to?"

This has started to become a problem. First it was just Ninggaung, but now Yanfei is gonna be weirded out by Keqing, there's also this Xianyun/Master woman, AND I seemingly can't get Hu Tao to fuck off. If I want my new dream realized, then I need to know exactly who I'm dealing with here. And how many obstacles may stand in my way.

"Hmm, you're asking a broad question. Please be more specific."

"Fine. Yanfei is a lawyer right? What kind of cases does she handle?"

"Well, just about every kind- though it's well-known that she doesn't exactly enjoy civil disputes. But she is the people of Liyue's go-to for any kind of legal consul."

"Wow~" I feign an awed tone. "A do-it-all defender of the law, solely for the common man? Amazing~"

"Wait, while a majority of cases she does is for the populace, she does not restrict herself. I myself have worked with her numerous times."

Interesting, but not unexpected. Keqing seems to have a knack for knowing cute girls~ "Yeah, I can imagine someone as impressive as that handing your worries. Hell, she could probably solve even Ninggaung's troubles!" Now why she spends time with Hu Tao and not, say, bending the laws to your whims feels like she's handicapping herself.

But while musing that, I notice that the relaxed smile on Keqing's face begins to fade. "Not quite. That one has… other methods." "Wait Ningguang? What do you- Oh, she has another lawyer for her?"

"No. Although… Hm~ That's an actual good joke from you. Imagining her in a stuffy courtroom, professionally dressed up in a suit and tie, having civil debate and operating completely inside the law. Quite an amusing picture to paint. Honestly though, she wouldn't be caught dead being mistaken for a lawyer."

…I don't know why, but I start to feel a shiver coming on. "Wait, who are you talking about?"

"Yelan of course."

"Who's Yelan?"

…Wait, why did I gulp? It's just another person right?

"Someone who works directly for Ninggaung." Keqing begins, then pauses with a blush. "A-apologies, but I cannot say more, e-even to you."

"….Why?"
"Yelan's duties are known only to a few members of the Qixing, and the full scope of those duties are known exclusively to the Tianquan. I have only encountered Yelan a few times myself, and for your sake, I hope you never have to. Please do not make me have to say more on the subject."

…She's serious isn't she? 'Do not make me' has a double meaning too, even if she doesn't know the full extent. And yes, while snapping my fingers to get past this defense and learn the identity of this Yelan is indeed at the top of my mind… I stop. Just knowing that there's apparent a new hidden adversary out there is already much more than I was hoping for.

"Ok I understand. I'll refrain."
"I appreciate you not prying."

For now, Keqing, for now.

"With that said then, let's go to sleep shall we?"
"Right now? But I still-"
SNAP
"Shut the fuck up and drop."

…Silence comes easy, hopefully sleep does as well.

Although…

Yelan… why does that name sound terrifying…?

Hey, so uh, fun fact- I fucking hate mountains! It's a new hatred I know- but while Mt. Aocang was nice thanks to having ladders everywhere, no such fortune exists with Hu Lao. It's nothing but the typical leg-grueling climb up steep slopes, coupled with the ever reminding fact that if you step two feet off the marked path, everyone will tumble off and die~ So that's not fun. But I hear you argue 'What about riding your catgirl?' - and that's a valid question, however Keqing needs to spare her energy for what is to come. So instead she's on guide duty, leading me 'safely' up, unaffected by the terrain herself.

Of course given that this is still the Yuheng, she's multitasking:

"Are you writing a report? Now?!"
"Yes. As embarrassing to admit, I was planning on working on it last night- but I appear to have fallen asleep."
That's obviously on me, also told her to forget the conversation about Yelan by the way.

"This is about Qingce Village's preparations right?"
"Correct. Now if it's all the same to you, once we're done here, I would like to briefly visit the village. This will improve the report's accuracy-"
"No. Can't anyway, we don't have the time. Just make something up, be vague, something. You can get one measly report past Ninggaung."

A murmured acceptance comes after, and it was back to silently hiking up Hu Lao for us. The quicker we can get done here and return to Liyue, the quicker Keqing and Ninggaung can finally discuss moving Ganyu, improving my tricks for Lantern Rite and my treats for me. And if we dawdle too much, Xiangling and Hu Tao will notice- and that's the LAST thing I need! So it's a very good thing that just before my stamina is about to reach its' breaking point, Keqing announces the peak is approaching us fast.

Compared to Aocang, Hu Lao's summit is much less flat and way more… tree-y. Multiple thick, curly trees make their home on either side of the path, seemingly welcoming us with their bright red field of leaves and an individual chunk of similarly-colored ore. Beautiful in its' own right, but not what I'm here for.

"Who goes there?" Familiar voice echoes from in front. This time, I'll be the one interrupting~

"Shenhe, I've come to speak with you!"

"…Yes…"

At the same time Keqing and I go deeper and get to admire another shallow, pool, the woman on its' opposite side, sitting near a shallow cave, robotically stands up. I didn't expect that she'd just be chilling out here, but there's no mistaking the alluring features a second time. Sexy Shenhe approaches- and a smile is impossible to hold back. Not counting the interrogation at the Jade Chamber, I believe this is the first time multiple 'targets' have been present, and I am very sure Keqing here is more subservient than Ganyu was back then~

"Hello. I did not expect this reunion so soon." Shenhe states, succeeding in gracing us with her full beauty. Man, do I wish I could just squeeze those puppies…! "And you are…"

"Keqing." A firm handshake is initiated by the Electro-wielder. "Miss Shenhe yes? I've heard much about you from Ganyu."

"Just Shenhe, if you could. And this is quite a stroke of fortune. Ganyu has also mentioned you often."

"Is that so? I shall have to try and live up to that reputation then."
"Likewise."

Aw~ They're getting along through the power of mutual friends~ I have to crash this-

"Well now that we're all introduced with one anther." I get two attractive gazes, stepping ins between them. "I bet you're wondering just why we're so far out from Liyue again, Shenhe?"

"I am not." Ow! Wasn't expecting that. "I assume you are exploring, but I have no interest."

"Oh? Trust me, you will~" Now the advantages of a partner who's extremely perceptive come into play, I'm able to signal Keqing into action with just a look. With a cough to clear her throat, the Yuheng declares: "Shenhe, by all first-hand accounts told to me, you are a wonder, naturally strong in a way few can match by themselves. With this knowledge, I would very much like to put my blade to the test against such strengths, witnessing it for myself.'

"Are you asking me to a duel?"

"That is correct-"

Though, before Keqing can finish her declaration, something….weird happens. Shenhe puts two fingers up to her forehead, concentrates, and seemingly sucks the warmth out of the air with how fucking cold it gets in a moment. It's not over yet; with a flick of her arm, something… emerges from behind her. I don't fucking know the specifics, but it's completely, 100% blue and has the body of a female- wait, not just that, but the literally shape of Shenhe herself with her features. Dynamite figure included. The only thing different is the weird 'paper' on its' forehead.

"What is that?!"
…. And why is it sexy…? I'm reminded of my hopes that there were two Shenhes… oh my god I love when I'm right~!

The sexy Cryo-user blinks. "A Talisman Spirit." As if this was the most normal question in the world. "I likewise need the practice, so if you want a fight-"

Keqing is unfazed by this, only summoning her sword again. I know this is my plan duh, but a 2v1? Only in the bedroom!

"H-hold on! Only weapons! ONLY WEAPONS!"

So after that crisis is averted, we all establish the rules (only weapons, no dirty play, speak if you want it to stop, etc.) we all take our places on the new stage. I admit to finding myself a little curious as to how this will go, Keqing and her brilliant sword that just slaughtered at least half a dozen hillichurls? Or Shenhe and her shiny blue polearm which likewise has a bodycount of three? Who will win?

Me.

Both women face each other with weapons displayed- and footwear completely discarded. Yup, four bare feet get to lovingly step all over the ground, really enveloping themselves and becoming one with the country they love so much.

"Shenhe, I believe my mobility will increase if I do this, however I do not wish to gain an unfair advantage. Would you indulge a selfish request?"
"I have never heard of this strategy before… interesting… mm, I shall do the same."

Worked like a charm, thanks for going along with me Keqing~ I mean, of course, but it almost makes me wish I told her to keep it up!

"Common tradition also dictates the both competitors should remove their top layer before a duel, for the ease of comparison."
"I see. Then I shall match your respect for this tradition."
"…! Stop! Oh my god… Ok, we're changing this plan now~! Shenhe, I command you, lay on the ground and spread your legs! I've waited TOO long for this!"

Man, that'd be amazing…. The thigh job, that divine figure squeezing against me, wrapping, grinding against a throbbing fully erect-!

…Ahem! Let's return to reality!

"Alright, you both ready? Then we can beg-!"

CLANG

"-in?"

In what feels like a split fucking second, water is kicked up violently in front of my face- and I witness art. An electrified Keqing utterly crashes her sword directly into Shenhe's polearm, a violent mix of green and blue, sending shockwaves. But- in what could be considered a testament to Liyue craftsman- the impacted weapon does NOT shatter into a million fucking pieces. Instead with a quick flourish, Shenhe immediately spears it right back into Keqing's chest. With an ear-piercing whiiiine of metal on metal, sparks fly out and the retaliation is dodged.

Then, the water crashes back down.

CLANGCLANGBANG

And an absolute flurry of quick strikes are launched by the Yuheng, her arm green-ish mess. As the aggressor here, the plan is obvious: try to find a crack in Shenhe's defense, a chink in the armor, any \thing to gain an edge in this relentless assault. Yet, throughout all of the wild hammering, it's equally clear that's she not getting anywhere. Yes, my ears are completely brutalized with the thunderous booms (and I apologize to any other hypnotists around this area, I feel like the hillichurls are about to blame you), the pond both of them stand in will never get its' natural direction back, and Keqing's sword is going to need serious refinement later… but Shenhe's remaining defensive, focusing solely on blocking. Her face showns none of the fierce attitude her attacker carries. the duel is at a quick stalemate.

In fact, this may be worse than that- Keqing's losing this.

Now, I'm not a tactician, warrior, or other kind of genius at battle. With how much Shenhe babied me with my 'training', I am NOT qualified. But it doesn't exactly take said genius to know where this skirmish is heading. Keqing is faster, but lacks the strength to really gain the decisive advantage, at least relative to Shenhe. The two are on equal footing for now- but as the battle keeps going, fatigue will begin to set in, and on the attacker much more than the defender. If Keqing is going to actually win this, she needs to end it as soon as possible.

Sounds like she needs some backup!

Bang! Bang! Ba-

Another clang of weapons results in Keqing dashing back to find a different point- and that's my best chance!

"Time out!" I bellow with no warning, reclaiming my audience's attention. Before a protest can be heard, I quickly put my hand on Keqing's shoulder and whisk her away. Shenhe is very confused.

And Keqing is downright pissed.

"What are you doing?!

"I know how you can win!"

Her pretty face get an ugly scowl, red eyes narrowing. "What are you talking about? This is just a practice session- one I am grateful to Shenhe for agreeing with. A valuable test for both of us- there will be no victor."

"Yes yes I'm aware. But hear me out for a minute. "Shenhe is strong, you're right! Buuuut~ What if I told you that your opponent is a hillichurl instead…?"

So you'd actually fight to the death~ That's the plan, but sadly-

"Ugh, what is wrong with you?! That's not funny at all; why are you insulting Shen-"

SNAP

"heaaahh…"

I swear, sometimes you are just…. Bah, It's annoying.

"Listen to me Keqing. OF COURSE, I did not mean a literal hillichurl- but in all honesty? From my perspective, there's very little difference. Both are insanely strong to someone like me, they could (and almost did) kill me without even breaking a sweat! Not to mention, both are kind of…" Sorry my love~ "Slow. Isolated, stupid, strong creatures. The only difference between them is that Shenhe is actually attractive~ So as of now, you will treat her just as violently as you would a hilichurl! Got it?"

"I….understand…."
"Damn right you do. Now get back in there!"

"Sorry about that Shenhe!" I call out, slowly leading a dead Keqing back into the area. "Just had to confirm something~"

"…I see. Shall we resume, Keqing?"
"…..Mm."

Now even with my command, I don't know how Keqing will perform now or if it will be enough to get the win. Regardless, I resume the contest with a shout and wave, which naturally leads to another 'Bang!'. Little did I know this would be the final sound like it. Keqing and Shenhe are again locked in a bind, same position, Keqing attacking with Shenhe defending, sword and polearm making sparks from the sheer friction. But just as I'm about to wonder what will be different here-

"…Don't blink…!"

Did she just fucking teleport?!

"It's over!"
"! -AH-"

Rumble!

How the hell does this stuff keep happening in the span of a second?! Look, all I know is that Keqing got behind Shenhe somehow, and the next thing I know, the Cryo sex symbol is flying through the mountain's earth with her god-given body. A nifty tunnel of dirt and mud spews out from the pond, splattering in all fucking directions, but mainly goes flying into a tree, with Shenhe as the battering ram.

Thud!
"Wow! Thank god her head didn't hit first, would've knocked her out for sure, eh Keqing?"

"…Keqing?"

There she is, approaching the newly dug-up hole… and a Shenhe that suddenly looks very weary, trying to use her polearm as a crutch to raise herself out of the dirt-

Ting

Annnnd so much for the polearm, sailing from the action. Swatted away like it was a fly~

"…You are…. the victor…" Shenhe gasps out, making Keqing lower her weapon and calm do- nah I'm just fucking with you, she shakingly raises it instead! I can hear a fearful gasp.

"What… what are- urk!- you… doing?!"
"H-hillichurls… m-must be…. M-murdered…. I must…."

Oh boy….
SNAP

And just like that, Keqing utterly tumbles to the ground, right in front of Shenhe.

"Hey bitch~ Haven't you ever heard the words, 'don't hurt the merchandise'? You nearly fucked up everything…again!"

Whew, that could've been a messy disaster! The only punishment I'll be giving out now is a soft boot to her shoulder as I crouch down to Shenhe's level. She's clutching her arm, guess that's where she got the worst of it.

"….You…."|
"Correct, it is me again~ Hello Shenhe~ Nice to see you again, really! Don't worry about Keqing here, she's just taking a little dirt nap."

This time around, there is nothing else to distract her with, her pale eyes see only me! And that means it's long past time to pull out the watch!

"What…is that…?"

"Nothing to worry about. But as your friend, I think you should look at it."
"Friend…? No, we are not-"
"Not friends? Why not?!"

"You…are…dangerous…"

Hm, that's the first time I've been called that, and it's rich from a woman who can rip hillichurls in half too~ And while I admire the insult, I don't appreciate the lip.

Fuck it, I could brute force this, but let's try a bit of a different tactic.

"I'm everyone's friend though! I'm Keqing's friend, I'm Xiangling's friend, I'm even your Master's friend!"

"Master's…? N-no… Nggh…i-Impossible…"
"Yeah, I was lying before, I'm sorry. But I know a ton about your Master, we're the best of pals~ She can transform into a human, she makes her own clothes, while also making a ton of amazing machines! I'm partial to the Supreme Cuisine Machine myself~"

"…H-how…?"
"Friends, dear Shenhe, friends! And now, I'm offering you the same hand of companionship your Master took~ Just stop being difficult, stop fighting me and take my hand~

To my pleasant surprise, her good arm begins to stretch out- only to falter as she winces.

"The… watch…. Giving me a headache…"
"It's only doing that because you still don't trust me. Here, I'll say your Master's name, I really hope that convinces you."

"Name….?"

"Xianyun. That's it, duh."

"…! ….Master… trusts you…."

"Yes she does! Now will you do the same?"

My answer to this question is Shenhe trying again to reach out for my head- all the while getting a full dose of hypnosis. Which will break first?

"Good girl…. The pain in your head should be slowly fading…. Dulling, becoming an afterthought…
"Yes….:"
"Focus on the watch and my other hand…. Now reach out…."

"….Yes…."
"Good girl….. goooood girl~"

"Close your eyes, feel the light comfortably slip away. Another afterthought. Now, keep reaching. Seize your future… feel the new warmth." I've said this before, but it's straight up unfair how every part of Shenhe's body is so beautiful. This adult's slim, dainty fingers, the way they desperately grasp…I crave their touch.

For now though, "Imagine, hearty laughs, no pain, no fighting…. Friends who accept you…. Citizens who adore you… A Master that's proud of you…"
"…M…mm…."

"All of these will be yours. Just take my hand…."

Yes…! Yes~! YES!
"Take my hand…."
"…"

"And
Stop
Thinking."

Her hand collapses into mine. And that's a fitting word, because the rest of her falls suit not a moment later. Her sexy hand, her sexy arm, the sexy bundle of breasts, ass, and thighs that like under a tree and in the dirt- all are almost as cold as death. Almost~

"Good girl, Shenhe…you're the best…" I put the watch away and wipe my forehead. Whew, that felt terrific! And taking a breath only makes me more proud of my handiwork- two of the hottest women in the region, if not the fucking world, lie still right by me! I would pinch myself to make sure I'm not dreaming, but the job isn't done yet.

In fact, now that I've actually seen Shenhe in action, it'd kind of be a waste to make her solely a cock-crazed empty husk. "So…. how does the role of my bodyguard sound?"

..I'll take the silence.

"Alright Shenhe, repeat what I just told you."

"Yes my lord. I am to continue moving gradually to Liyue Harbor, as previously instructed. However as I approach, I now aim to get seen by as many Millelith solders as possible. I will not engage directly with them, only letting them see me at a distance, allowing my existence to become rumor."

"Good work." Though bit weird hearing somebody so stunted talk long, especially as she doesn't move at all "Keqing, anything else?"

"Make sure she understands what to do with her Master."

"Right. Shenhe?"

"Should Master locate me when I finish moving, I will tell her not to worry and that Lantern Rite is when I will truly interact with the townspeople."

Perfect! And with that, I turn to Keqing.

"You know, you won the duel. So I'll tell you what- you can give Shenhe a command right here and now."

She takes a step back in mild shock. "A-are you sure?"
"It's the right thing to do~"

"Alright then… Just a moment."

….

"Oh-HO~ I see~ Didn't expect that from you! I'm impressed, I'll admit!"
"D-don't worry, you're still s-special! But I want this too!"
"No problem at all, but I'll have to revise the command. Shenhe's not there quite yet."

After thinking, I approach the sexy statue and whisper Keqing's desire.
"Yes, my lord."

And Shenhe calmly walks up to Keqing, bends over- and engulfs her in a hug.

"Yeah, sorry, no kissing yet."
"Mmm…it's okay…" Man, she's so embarrassed~ But just like that, all our objectives are done- and not a moment too soon with how red the sky is getting. Luckily, we already have a free trip down the mountain-

"All aboard the Shenhe Express!" I say, climbing up said woman's back, clothing her pair of treasures… Any boner I gain is 100% intentional this time, thank you. Keqing opts for a window seat on the shoulder, dismissing my warnings of the upcoming rocky ride. Eh, Vision-holders, she'll be fine.

Hopefully though, this is my final trip to the fucking mountains for…. Forever.

Now, what to tell Xiangling…?

Couple of things:

Finally! Hopefully this long chapter makes up for the delay. I swear my New Year's resolution will be to devote more time to writing! A thousand thank yous to every comment, fav, and follow- it helps keep my motivation moving!

Also it is so freaking funny that Xiangling/Hu Tao got a skin now, they look terrific~ I kind of can't believe like every main character in this story has a skin- and yes, they all will be present.

And of course, may you all have a happy holiday season and an awesome 2025!