The lingering glow of the setting sun, like a splash of molten copper, spilled across the newly tilled hard soil of the Serenitea Pot landing zone, plating the returning warriors in a weary, golden-red hue. As the spatial gateway flickered to life, Keqing stepped out first, the soft chime of Lion's Roar returning to its scabbard ringing with startling clarity in the sudden silence. Her violet eyes swept over the formation of Millelith and Favonius Knights, the crackling lightning deep within her pupils overshadowed by a thick, unshakeable fatigue. Limeng followed closely behind, his shoulders still smudged with the ash of artillery fire, the cuff of his combat uniform torn to reveal the sweat-drenched lining beneath. He walked in silence behind Keqing, the scent of gunpowder, dust, and a faint hint of blood lingering around his nostrils—the indelible brand of the battlefield.
"Equipment damage inventory, I want a summary within two hours," Keqing instructed the waiting scribe in a slightly hoarse voice, not breaking her stride. "The list of the fallen... compile it as soon as possible." The last few words fell heavily to the ground.
Just as Limeng was about to drift with the crowd toward the temporary technical department barracks, a figure jogged over and squeezed through. It was Xiao Li from the Qixing committee office, his young face pulled tight, sweat beading on his temples.
Chapter 187