Genshin Impact: Strength Through Bonds

In the distance, a transport ship lay anchored.

"Be careful with the loading—handle everything gently!"

A middle-aged man in a straw hat shouted orders near the ship.

He had discovered a derelict Ruin Guard on another island,

its deactivation confirmed by a reliable adventurer.

Hearing this news had lifted everyone's spirits.

Once it was brought back to Narukami Island, it would sell for a handsome sum.

"Don't worry. It's just a Ruin Guard."

"As soon as it's secured, we'll get started."

One of the sailors, busy at work, even gave the massive machine a playful kick.

It wasn't like it could move anyway.

"Good!"

The middle-aged man's face beamed with excitement as he looked toward the ship.

On the deck, a shadow loomed large— a hardened shell, with its massive core cannon at the center.

It inspired awe and fear.

The battle machine, dormant for countless years, was now destined to become glittering Mora.

But no one noticed—

Amid the hustle and bustle of preparation, the supposedly lifeless Ruin Guard quivered faintly.

A flicker of light emerged from its core.

---

Ren's gaze was drawn to the Ruin Guard in the distance.

Under normal circumstances, transporting deactivated machinery posed no danger.

After all, this operation had been approved by the authorities.

But...

His eyes shifted to the doll-like girl in his hand.

Though he remained vigilant, he had to admit—

When it came to machinery, the Marionette was an expert.

With that thought, he began walking toward the Ruin Guard.

"We've known each other for a while now. Shouldn't there be some trust between us?"

Sandrone clung to his finger, her voice soft and melodic.

"You think a Harbinger would believe in trust?" Ren chuckled dryly.

As a Fatui Harbinger, one wielded immense power, but their infighting was constant and ruthless.

Trust? That was laughable.

"You're different, Ren."

Sandrone shook her head, her delicate hands gripping his fingers.

"You're one of a kind. Look at me properly."

Ren raised his hand slightly.

"What makes me so different?"

"I could tell you... quietly."

Her striking blue eyes shimmered as she reached out a small hand toward him.

For someone accustomed to the cold touch of machines, being surrounded by such warmth was an unfamiliar sensation.

This was also the first time she'd held a conversation with a man for so long.

Even if this man treated her roughly...

A faint smile curved her lips.

If Columbina found out, she'd probably be upset.

Columbina, the Third Harbinger—"The Damselette," was the only one who had ever shown her kindness.

But that didn't matter.

Sooner or later, Ren would become her "material."

Once he underwent the perfect transformation, he would stay by her side forever.

And she had plenty of patience.

"Get closer. You're still too far," she whispered as the sea breeze tousled her lashes, making her look like a delicate, living fairy.

Ren moved his hand a little closer, unconcerned about any tricks she might attempt.

"The wind's still too strong. Just a bit closer," her gentle voice urged again.

Now lifting her near his face, Ren could see her every detail up close.

Her features were breathtakingly beautiful, elegant, and serene.

Perhaps from fleeing the Fatui, a faintly frail air lingered about her.

She lay in his palm, entirely at his mercy.

Like a bird with clipped wings, fragile yet enchanting.

And beneath it all, a hidden danger lurked.

"Well, actually..."

Sandrone leaned toward his ear, drawing out her words.

Ren remained silent, listening intently.

Suddenly, the wind fell still.

And her delicate voice whispered,

"You and I are destined to be partners."

Ren's eyes widened as he stared at her.

[Ding! Emotional Resonance from Sandrone +1.]

[Finally, emotional resonance from a girl's close interaction!]

[Oh, and about that earlier system message:]

[Accumulate Emotional Resonance from the Marionette to unlock a special mission.]

[Reward: Targeted Talent Unlock—'Wonders of the International Ensemble.']

Ren: ...

What do you mean by that, system?

[It's the Affection System. Nothing more, nothing less.]

[Just a friendly gesture.]

Ren: Do you really think I'd do all this just for a talent—

[It's a win-win! No need to feel forced.]

[The choice is still yours, after all.]

The system's airy voice dissipated on the breeze.

Noticing his changing expression, Sandrone's lips curled into a smile.

Such a different reaction compared to cold machines.

It only fueled her desire to study him more.

She needed Ren... and soon.

But the moment of peace didn't last long.

"?"

Ren suddenly moved as if to throw her into the sea.

Sandrone clutched his finger tightly, refusing to let go.

"Let go."

"What an unromantic man," she huffed.

After another round of verbal sparring, the sky darkened as they approached the Ruin Guard.

Ren looked up at the towering machine.

Even as it sat lifeless on the ground, its sheer presence was overwhelming.

It was a weapon of war, a relic of a fallen nation,

and its combat capabilities were formidable.

"Takahashi-sama, you've arrived!"

From afar, a squad of samurai approached in formation.

The small leader at the front bowed respectfully upon reaching him.

"No need for formalities," Ren waved dismissively.

"I'm just a humble servant."

"This..."

The warriors exchanged uneasy glances, unsure of what to say.

You're practically the Shogun's closest aide!

"Tell everyone here to evacuate for now."

Ren didn't elaborate further, waving his hand firmly.

Though confused, the Tenryou Commission soldiers wasted no time carrying out his order.

"Takahashi-sama, what are you—"

Before the question could be finished, Ren unsheathed his blade, glancing behind him.

In the shadows, a sinister red light flared to life, locking onto him instantly.

"It's time to move."

---

T/N: heyyy was too late to ask someone to do end of chapter notes this week but I already have someone lined up for next week, also new translation! 'You Will Regret This Ichinose!' check it out or something :)