Vacation Time, Woohoo Hahahahaha

Morning sunlight streamed through the paper door into the room as Baichen stared blankly at the ceiling.

Three days had passed since he returned from Tatarasuna, and the Shogun had been busy handling military affairs,

while he had been placed under "house arrest" in Tenshukaku, supposedly to recuperate.

[Ding! Daily quest updated]

[Quest: Tour Inazuma City (0/3 attractions)]

[Reward: Language mastery (Inazuman dialect)]

The system notification perked Baichen up.

Ever since gaining Electro affinity, he had found that he could faintly sense fluctuations in the emotions of those around him-

for instance, the maid outside his door was clearly hesitating over whether to knock.

"Come in," Baichen called out on his own initiative.

The paper door slid gently open, and a young maid with her hair in a bun entered carrying breakfast.

"Lord Baichen, you're awake?" Her eyes widened in surprise. "I hadn't even knocked yet..."

"I guessed."

Baichen smiled and took the tray. "What's the plan for today?"

"The Shogun said you may go out to relax, accompanied by the Okuzumeshuu." The maid handed him an amethyst token. "This is a special pass."

The token felt smooth and warm in his hand, and tiny lightning patterns were engraved on its inner side.

Baichen wolfed down breakfast in a few bites and hurriedly changed into a simple kimono-

a dark blue garment patterned with silver thunderclouds, the "casual wear" Yae Publishing House had sent someone to deliver yesterday.

As soon as he stepped outside the gates of Tenshukaku, two members of the Okuzumeshuu came up to him. "Lord Baichen, General Kujou assigned us to accompany you."

One was the young samurai who had saved him on the ship, and he remembered that his name was Aoba.

The other was a female samurai he had never met. She wore a tengu mask, and the wings on her back were much smaller than Kujou's.

"Where to first?" Aoba asked enthusiastically. "The shops in Hanamizaka have just gotten new stock, or would you like to try the new dishes at Uyuu Restaurant?"

As Baichen rubbed his chin in thought, a system notification suddenly appeared:

[Recommended route: 1. Yae Publishing House bookstore 2. Naganohara Fireworks 3. Komore Teahouse]

[Special notice: All characters are more active today]

"Let's check out Yae Publishing House first."

They passed through the bustling streets of Inazuma City, vendors calling out one after another along the way.

Quite a few passersby cast curious glances at him, but when they saw the token at his waist and the Okuzumeshuu behind him, they hurriedly lowered their heads.

Yae Publishing House was far grander than it had been in the game, a three-story wooden building with a prominent fox sign.

The moment he pushed open the door, a wind chime rang out, and the scent of books mingled with ink greeted him.

"Welco... Oh my, isn't this the Shogun's little darling?"

A pink head peeked out from behind the counter. Yae Miko was wearing a modified shrine maiden outfit today, with fox patterns embroidered in gold thread on its wide cuffs.

Resting her chin on her hand, she looked Baichen over with a smile. "They finally let you out?"

"Lady Guuji." Baichen bowed awkwardly, while the Okuzumeshuu behind him dropped to one knee.

Miko came around the counter, twirling a lock of hair around her finger. "Here to read, or... here to see me?"

She suddenly leaned close and whispered in Baichen's ear, "That secret I mentioned last time-would you like to hear more?"

Her warm breath brushed his ear, carrying the sweet scent of sakura mochi.

Before Baichen could answer, Aoba cleared his throat. "Lady Guuji, Lord Baichen is here on the Shogun's orders..."

"I know, I know~" Miko waved a hand. "You're just afraid I'll eat him, aren't you?"

She suddenly seized Baichen's wrist. "Lend him to me for half an hour. I promise to return him in one piece~"

Before the Okuzumeshuu could react, she gave the kagura bells in her hand a gentle shake, and the space around them twisted at once.

When they opened their eyes again, they were in a private study on the top floor of Yae Publishing House.

"You!" Baichen hurriedly backed away until his back hit a bookshelf.

Miko unhurriedly locked the door. As she turned around, a sly glint flashed in her eyes:

"What are you so nervous about? I wouldn't really eat you..." She tilted her head. "Unless you want me to?"

[Yae Miko's affection +2%, current: 8%]

[Note: Desire to tease her prey]

The study was filled with ancient books and scrolls, and maps of places all over Inazuma hung on the walls.

Miko lounged on a cushioned couch by the window and patted the spot beside her. "Sit down. It's tiring to stand."

Baichen sat down at a cautious distance, but she persisted in moving close, playing with a lock of his hair. "I heard you did well in Tatarasuna?"

"The way the Shogun looks at you has been different lately, too~"

"Is that why you called me here?"

"Of course not."

Miko suddenly grew serious and took a small omamori from her sleeve. "Take it. It could save your life at a critical moment."

The omamori felt cool in his hand and was embroidered with an exquisite fox design.

Baichen looked up in confusion, only to see a rare seriousness on her face. "Things haven't been peaceful in Inazuma lately. Someone has their eye on you."

"Who?"

"Who knows~" Her playful expression returned. "It could be the resistance, the Fatui, or perhaps..." Her fingertip grazed Baichen's Adam's apple. "A certain 'acquaintance' you'd never expect."

Baichen wanted to ask more, but a commotion suddenly broke out downstairs.

Miko sighed. "That was quick." She snapped her fingers, and they instantly returned to the shop.

The Okuzumeshuu from Tenshukaku had already rushed in, led by none other than Kujou Sara.

She was visibly relieved to see them, but her face promptly hardened. "Lady Guuji, please don't take it upon yourself to..."

"I know, I know~" Miko waved a hand dismissively, then suddenly shoved a book into Baichen's arms. "A souvenir for you~"

"Teyvat Travel Guide"... The cover made it look like an ordinary travelogue. But when Baichen looked up, Miko gave him a meaningful wink.

[Obtained key item: Miko's Secret Letter (specific conditions required to unlock)]

After they left Yae Publishing House, Kujou personally joined the escort. "Where to next?" she asked stiffly.

"Naganohara Fireworks?"

The streets of Hanamizaka were livelier than those of the main city, and the aromas from various snack stalls mingled in the air.

Colorful fireworks samples hung outside Naganohara's shop, and a familiar figure stood at the entrance-Yoimiya was introducing new products to a customer.

"Hey! What a rare visit!" Her golden-red eyes lit up when she saw them. "Has a big shot from the Tenryou Commission come to buy fireworks too?"

Kujou frowned. "I'm only accompanying him."

Yoimiya looked Baichen over curiously. "And this is...?"

"Baichen, the Shogun's... guest." Baichen had grown used to that awkward introduction.

"Wow! Then you must be the legendary..." Yoimiya suddenly lowered her voice. "The one the Shogun gives 'special attention' to?"

Baichen's face instantly burned. Kujou cleared her throat. "Please don't spread false rumors."

Grinning, Yoimiya took Baichen by the hand. "Come on, come on, let me show you the newly developed 'Flash of Lightning'! Guaranteed to be more dazzling than the Shogun's lightning punishment!"

All the Okuzumeshuu around them turned pale at her words, but Yoimiya had already dragged Baichen into the back courtyard without giving him a choice.

The place was piled high with gunpowder and other materials, and several enormous, half-finished fireworks stood in the center.

"Actually..." Yoimiya suddenly leaned close, carrying a faint scent of gunpowder. "Someone asked me to pass a message to you."

Baichen was taken aback. "Who?"

"Her Excellency from Sangonomiya." She discreetly slipped a shell earring into Baichen's hand. "She said it was 'thanks for Tatarasuna.'"

Tiny wave patterns were engraved on the earring, and he could faintly sense the presence of Hydro.

Baichen was about to thank her when the courtyard gate suddenly swung open. Kujou stood there, her face cold. "Time's up."

[Sangonomiya Kokomi's affection +3%, current: 11%]

[Obtained special item: Watatsumi's Blessing (slight increase to Hydro resistance)]

It was already noon when they left the fireworks shop, so they decided to have lunch at Uyuu Restaurant.

The famous Inazuman restaurant was tucked away in a quiet alley, its surroundings peaceful and elegant.

"Three of you?" The proprietress came forward to greet them warmly, but her expression grew solemn when she saw the token at Baichen's waist. "Ah, you're the Shogun's... Please, follow me."

She led them to a private room beside the water, where opening the window revealed koi swimming in the pond.

After they ordered, Kujou finally couldn't resist asking, "What did Lady Guuji give you?"

"Just... a book," Baichen answered honestly.

Kujou didn't look convinced, but she didn't ask any more questions.

Lunch was an exquisite kaiseki meal, each dish as beautiful as a work of art.

Just as Baichen picked up a slice of sea bream sashimi, there was a gentle knock at the paper door.

"Sorry to intrude," came a gentle female voice. "I heard Mr. Baichen was here and came especially to pay him a visit."

The sliding door opened, revealing the person standing outside-Kamisato Ayaka.

Today she wore a pale blue casual outfit, her silver hair tied back with a simple ribbon. She looked more approachable than she had at Tenshukaku.

"Miss Kamisato?" Kujou stood up in surprise.

"Forgive my unannounced visit." Ayaka bowed gracefully. "My elder brother heard that Mr. Baichen is fond of the tea ceremony and would like to invite you to the Kamisato Estate tomorrow for a chat." She offered him a gilt-edged invitation. "Of course, we have already obtained the Shogun's permission."

Baichen took the invitation, feeling the fine texture of high-quality washi paper beneath his fingers.

Kujou checked its contents and nodded slightly. "It does have the Shogun's seal."

"Then we shall await your arrival tomorrow, between three and five in the afternoon." Ayaka smiled faintly, her gaze lingering on Baichen's face for a moment before she said goodbye and left.

[Kamisato Ayaka's first appearance]

[Current affection: 5% (curiosity stage)]

After lunch, they headed to their final destination, Komore Teahouse. Hidden deep in an alley, the teahouse belonged to the Yashiro Commission and offered more privacy than Uyuu Restaurant.

"Please wait here a moment." The maid leading them showed them to a spot by the window. "The master will be here shortly."

As Baichen wondered about this, the paper door slid open again, and this time the person who appeared was none other than Thoma!

The Kamisato Clan's housekeeper wore a simple kendo outfit, his blond hair loosely tied back. He looked even more cheerful and robust than he did in the game.

"Hey! Finally get to meet you in person!" He clapped Baichen on the shoulder enthusiastically. "Everyone in the city's been saying the Shogun's hidden away a treasure, and today I finally get to see you!"

Kujou's expression shifted subtly. "Mr. Thoma, please watch your words."

"Just kidding~" Thoma sat down with a grin and poured their tea himself. "Actually, the young lady asked me to come say hello and, while I'm at it..." He lowered his voice. "Warn you to watch out for the Fatui who've recently appeared in the city."

Baichen's heart tightened. "The Fatui?"

"There's a Harbinger called 'La Signora' who's been asking about you for the past two days."

Thoma handed Baichen a cup of tea. "I hear your performance in Tatarasuna caught quite a few people's interest."

Kujou immediately became alert. "Is this information reliable?"

"Absolutely." Thoma's smile vanished. "Our people saw Fatui reinforcements on Ritou."

By the time they left the teahouse, the evening sun was already sinking in the west.

Kujou insisted they return straight to Tenshukaku, but as they passed an alley, she suddenly stopped. "It's an ambush."

The Okuzumeshuu immediately drew their swords and stood ready. A chuckle came from deeper in the alley. "As expected of the Kujou Clan's tengu. What a keen nose you have."

A slender figure stepped out of the shadows-the Fatui Harbinger La Signora. She wore her trademark mask, and cold flames danced at her fingertips.

"Hand over the boy," she said lazily. "I don't want to ruin my freshly done nails."

Kujou stepped in front of Baichen, her wings fully spread. "Don't even think about it!"

A battle was about to erupt. La Signora waved a hand and summoned icicles, while Kujou struck back with lightning arrows.

Just as the two sides reached a stalemate, pink petals suddenly drifted in from the other end of the alley-

"Snatching someone on another's turf? Aren't you showing the local boss a little too little respect?"

Yae Miko leaned against the top of a wall, the kagura bells in her hand jingling. La Signora clicked her tongue. "Meddlesome fox..."

"Right back at you~" Miko jumped lightly down. "How about this? We let the little one choose for himself?" She suddenly turned to Baichen and winked. "Who will you go with?"

The absurd choice left Baichen frozen in place.

Just as tensions reached their peak, the sky suddenly darkened-not with clouds, but with a purer kind of darkness.

"That's enough."

A bolt of violet lightning struck, and the Raiden Shogun appeared in its glow.

She pointed the Musou Isshin in her hand straight at La Signora. "Get out of my Inazuma."

La Signora sneered, but still stepped back several paces. "I'll give the Electro Archon face today." Her gaze swept over Baichen. "We'll meet again, little boy."

As La Signora left, the darkness gradually dispersed. The Shogun put away her tachi and turned to Baichen. "Are you hurt?"

Baichen shook his head, his heart still pounding.

The Shogun's gaze swept over Kujou and Miko in turn, finally settling on the invitation in Baichen's hand. "An invitation from the Kamisato Clan?"

"Y-yes..."

On the way back to Tenshukaku, Miko disappeared at some point without anyone noticing.

Kujou remained vigilant the entire way, while the Shogun was frighteningly silent. Only after they passed through the gates of Tenshukaku did she suddenly speak:

"From today onward, you must report in advance before going out."

An emotion Baichen couldn't read flashed through the Raiden Shogun's violet eyes. "I do not wish to see a situation like today's again."

She stood in the courtyard of Tenshukaku, the setting sun stretching her shadow long.

Baichen lowered his head, his fingers unconsciously rubbing his sleeve-his trip sneaking off to Hanamizaka to buy dango today had still been discovered.

"Yes, Shogun."

Ei's gaze lingered on Baichen for a moment. She seemed to want to say something, but in the end she merely sighed softly. "Go back."

[Raiden Shogun's affection +3%, current: 23%]

[Note: Increased desire to protect]

When he returned to his room, the maid had already prepared hot water.

Soaking in the bathtub, Baichen recalled Ei's expression just now-that complicated look. Rather than anger, was it... worry?

System, isn't Ei a little too on edge?

[Analyzing...]

[According to the data, the Raiden Shogun's recent emotional fluctuations are abnormal]

[Possible cause 1: Special attention to the host]

[Possible cause 2: Tensions within Inazuma]

[Possible cause 3: Increased Fatui activity]

After drying himself, Baichen found a book by his bedside that hadn't been there before-the Inazuma Gazetteer, with a fresh cherry blossom tucked into its cover. He opened it to the title page, where he saw Yae Miko's familiar handwriting:

"Cutie, I'm lending you this to pass the time. Remember to read it all the way to the end."

Late that night, when all was quiet, Baichen leafed through the book Miko had given him. When moonlight fell on one page, hidden words suddenly appeared:

"Be careful of those around you. Someone wants you. -Miko"

As Baichen pondered what those words meant, a faint sound came from outside the window.

He sat up alertly, only to find that it was just a black cat leaping across the eaves.

The black cat met his gaze with golden eyes for a moment, then disappeared lightly into the night.