Chapter 117 To Join the Fatui or Not

"My companion is truly heartless," Sandrone tilted her face up to look at Qin Yu. Her azure eyes blinked, silently expressing her dissatisfaction. This was the first time she had voluntarily stopped her work. Since joining the Cryo Archon and becoming an Executive, she had spent most of her time in the laboratory, except for occasional visits to her sister Columbina. The world around her consisted only of cold machinery. But to Sandrone, this was perfectly fine. Driven by her pursuit of perfection, she had dedicated herself to her research, seeking the "materials" that could accompany her forever. Fortunately, she had found them. Yet, she was also somewhat annoyed... Sandrone met Qin Yu's gaze and snorted. In the next moment, she turned, picked up a component, and threw it at Qin Yu with all her might. She hit him squarely. "Clank." The component fell onto the deck, rolling a considerable distance. The puppet girl stumbled and bumped into Qin Yu's hand, losing her balance. Qin Yu curled his lips, "Is that all?" The formidable Fatui Harbinger, the Puppet. She acted like a petulant, simple little girl. He couldn't even be bothered to retaliate. "Underestimating an Executive comes at a price," Sandrone snorted and continued modifying the machinery. Before her, a rough shell had already taken shape, resembling a large crab. Qin Yu observed for a moment and asked softly, "Is your job to build this for the Tsaritsa?" "Please do not belittle my research." Sandrone's hands didn't stop as she gestured for Qin Yu to help. The petite girl usually required assistance. In fact, it was a mechanical arm that supported her. But now, only Qin Yu was by her side. Naturally, this task fell to him. "I do want to see what you can create." Qin Yu extended his hand, lifting Sandrone closer to the machinery. "See, we can cooperate well," Sandrone patted Qin Yu's hand with satisfaction. "Would you like to return to Snezhnaya and become an Executive? With your current strength and growth rate, you would surely gain the favor of the Tsaritsa. And Executives are not forbidden from finding partners." Qin Yu shook his head, "Your organization is already full. Isn't it better to stick close to Ei in Inazuma? Who is the Tsaritsa? I'm not familiar with her." "It's fine," Sandrone smiled sweetly. "We can just kill one to make space." Qin Yu froze. She said something terrifying so casually. The elegant and refined young lady, after all, was an Executive. When it came to a fight to the death, she would never show mercy. "You should worry about yourself first. We can definitely cooperate." Sandrone patted Qin Yu, her eyes alight with excitement. "As long as my companion... accepts modification." Qin Yu grabbed the puppet girl, intending to toss her into the sea. "Please don't be so rough. You still want to drag me to fight the Executives? My companion, are you scared?" The two stared at each other, neither backing down. Qin Yu didn't bother to say more. "I was going to introduce you to my sister Columbina." "Not interested." ... The two finally fell silent. Sandrone's modifications were entering their final stage. Qin Yu enjoyed the peace, examining the hairpin in his hand. In the sunlight, the slightly worn hairpin glinted. Kuki Shinobu, his pen pal. They would be meeting soon. "You're thinking about another woman," a melodious voice with a hint of coldness sounded. Qin Yu glanced at her, "What's it to you?" "You are my companion," Sandrone snorted. "I will let that woman know of our relationship. Just like your Anemo friend." Sandrone tilted her chin up and said earnestly. Qin Yu sighed and closed his eyes, feeling a bit weary from being stared at by the puppet girl. "By the way, I heard Anemo are usually very detrimental to friends. Do you think he would..." Qin Yu opened his eyes and glared at Sandrone. "Our friendship is deep. How could he possibly harm me?" Pure rumors and prejudice. He was fine, wasn't he? ... On the port, Kaedehara Kazuha gazed at the sea. "It's wonderful, Brother Qin Yu." He smiled slightly, watching the warship depart. Reuniting with a friend always brought joy. What pleased him even more was that Qin Yu now had a female companion by his side. He had gained a sister-in-law. As a friend, Kazuha was genuinely happy. "Coo!" Just then, a seagull flew by. "Stop calling, seagull." Kazuha smiled with his usual carefree demeanor and turned to leave. He happened to have something to ask the Yashiro Commission. This was a rare opportunity to pay a visit to the Princess of the Shogun's Guard. ... In Inazuma City, on Hanamizaka. Outside the Nagahonara Fireworks Shop. The cheerful girl was slumped over the table, swaying back and forth. "Damn it, damn it." "Stupid Qin Yu, I'll beat you to death!" Yoimiya puffed out her cheeks and poked the puppet in her hand. He had gone out to sea without saying goodbye. She was angry! Hmph, she'd never talk to Qin Yu again. "..." Yoimiya paused for a moment. She pursed her lips and looked at the puppet in her hand. Poor little Qin Yu, who was being tormented beyond recognition. "I'm sorry, Qin Yu." Her fingertip gently brushed across little Qin Yu's cheek. "We're just friends. What reason do I have to be angry?" Yoimiya murmured, then straightened the puppet. She propped her head in her hand and stared at little Qin Yu. She poked his little belly. After a short while, a smile returned to the girl's face. "Sister Yoimiya!" A group of children ran up, laughing and playing in the street. "New toys, so cool!" They gathered around Yoimiya, cheering with delight. Yoimiya blinked her eyes. "Are those mechanical toys in your hands? Such intricate craftsmanship, just like..." She subconsciously looked at little Qin Yu. Just like this puppet. "Children, who gave them to you?" "A sickly sister sitting in a wheelchair!" Yoimiya paused slightly, about to ask further. "Excuse me, is Miss Yoimiya here?" Suddenly, a melodious voice rang out. Yoimiya instinctively turned and her eyes widened. The girl in the wheelchair was smiling at her. Her skin was fair, and her brown hair fluttered. She wore a simple white dress that accentuated her petite figure. She was a girl as exquisite as a porcelain doll. So cute... "Who are you..." Yoimiya instinctively asked. The doll-like girl's lips curved slightly. "Nice to meet you, Miss Yoimiya. I'm looking for my companion." The girl gently approached Yoimiya. "Sandrone. That's my name..."