"Because he wants to gather the undercurrents surging beneath the water, pressuring them to the limit before letting them explode."
Kael spoke slowly, "He has lived too long and wants to see if Liyue can move toward the next era without him."
"That's right."
Zhongli nodded gently, taking over Kael's words, whispering, "I have lived in the world for more than six thousand years. Establishing Liyue with the Adepti was also three thousand seven hundred years ago."
"Even rocks that cannot be shattered by whirlpools will wear down under the washing of time. I just kept convincing myself that the day when cracks appear from wear has not yet arrived."
"Until one rainy day, I was strolling in the harbor and heard a merchant praising his subordinate: 'You have completed your duty. Now, go rest.'"
"At that time, I stood in the crowd for a long time, asking myself constantly: 'My duty... is it also completed?'"
"But when I started to consider whether I should step down from the god's position... I discovered I still have many reasons not to leave."
"The land where God walks, Liyue, is it ready to enter the next era?"
"I must create an opportunity to observe seriously before making a decision."
"That's why I designed this year's Rite of Descension, involving the Fatui, the Adepti of Liyue, the Liyue Qixing, etc., to see what they will do in the chaos."
"It's exactly the same as what Kael said."
Hearing Zhongli's words, Paimon widened her eyes and looked at Kael. "Before at Wangshu Inn, Kael, you said there would be a big accident at the Rite of Descension."
Completely predicted this Geo Archon's prediction.
"Oh?"
Hearing this, Zhongli raised an eyebrow, looking at Kael slightly surprised.
Even he didn't expect someone to predict his actions.
"So, in the following process, I also hope you can help me hide it."
In the next second, Zhongli said softly, "In exchange, you can help the Liyue Qixing in the upcoming Rite of Descension and gain their friendship. At that time, if you want to find clues about the Abyss, you can ask the Liyue Qixing directly."
"This is also beneficial to you."
"Traveler, what do you think?"
As he spoke, Zhongli looked at Lumine.
"I see."
Hearing Zhongli's words, Lumine scratched her head.
Next, this Rex Lapis wanted to set up a layout for Liyue. What she had to do was shut up first and not inform on him.
Then intervene in the Rite of Descension to gain the friendship of the Liyue Qixing.
It could be said that this was the way provided by Zhongli to befriend the Liyue Qixing.
Without this way, it seemed quite difficult to obtain the friendship of the Liyue Qixing.
Immediately, Lumine agreed.
However, before agreeing, Lumine still looked at Kael.
After all, Kael was the one making the decisions.
"Naturally."
Hearing "Jing Yuan's" words, Kael nodded gently.
Refusing Zhongli brought no benefits.
Agreeing could allow him to befriend Zhongli who sat in control of the overall situation, and also gain System rewards. Why not?
As Kael nodded.
Lines of virtual text jumped out in front of him instantly.
[Facing Jing Yuan's invitation, you chose Straight To The Point, directly pointing out that everything in the Luofu now is within Jing Yuan's calculations.]
[Jing Yuan has been fishing all along, knowing where the Stellaron is, but involving the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus and how it was transported in, he needs time to catch them all in one net.]
[Your remarks surprised Jing Yuan because you completely stated his thoughts, thoughts that even the other Six Charioteers didn't know.]
[Congratulations on obtaining Option Three Reward: [Snow Lion Mimi]. The stone lion at the entrance of the Seat of Divine Foresight. After obtaining, you can make the lion be in a real body state or stone statue state at any time. Can change freely.]
Looking at the reward in hand, Kael smiled.
Another reward obtained.
Comfortable.
"Then next, let me take you to appreciate the scenery of Liyue."
Seeing Kael nod, Zhongli chuckled lightly, nodding gently. "You haven't fully experienced the historical thickness of three thousand seven hundred years in the land with a God."
"The process of preparing for the Rite of Parting will also become part of your journey, broadening your horizons."
"Liyue is the most prosperous country among the Seven Nations of the Mortal World. In previous years, there were also gods guarding it and the Qixing ruling it. I believe the experience will not disappoint you."
"Yay!"
Hearing this, Paimon rubbed her hands excitedly. "Having a God as our guide is something others dream of but can't imagine."
"En."
Lumine also nodded subconsciously.
Unexpectedly, going out early this morning, they met "Jing Yuan" (Zhongli) and learned a lot of things.
And at this time.
In front of Kael, lines of text appeared again.
[Because you saw through Jing Yuan's plan, Jing Yuan hopes you can help keep the secret in the currently panicked Luofu.]
[In exchange, Jing Yuan will take you to tour the Luofu and appreciate its scenery.]
[Facing Jing Yuan's kindness, you choose...]
[Option One: Calmly Accept. Since Jing Yuan is willing to use touring the Luofu as an exchange condition, you might as well go with the flow and see what he can show you. Anyway, you wanted to investigate the current situation of the Luofu. Why not take this opportunity to appreciate the scenery while gaining more intelligence? (Reward: Lightning Attribute Power. After fusion, your Trailblaze Path power can derive Lightning Attribute power. From now on, your attacks will also have an element.)]
[Option Two: Flatly Refuse. Keep a secret? This is not something you should consider. What does the situation of the Luofu have to do with you? You have your own purpose here and don't want to be dragged into Jing Yuan's calculations. Besides, there is no free lunch in the world. Jing Yuan's active kindness is a bit deliberate. You won't enter the game easily. (Reward: Branch of Immortal Ambrosia. Withered branch of an ancient divine object, the source of the Xianzhou natives' endless lifespan, residue of Abundance miracles. After the Three Sufferings, Xianzhou creatures were plunged into misery. Celestials fell into Mara, suffering endlessly. According to the Ten-Lords Commission law, those on the verge of Mara-Struck will be arrested by judges and sent to the Nether Prison for trial.)]
[Option Three: Turn the Tables. Is it you who understands the Luofu or me who understands the Luofu? You know the future trend of the Luofu. Even if you just arrived, you know the situation like the back of your hand. Jing Yuan's kindness must have a bigger plan, and your next actions must not be under his nose. The Luofu is unstable now, and Jing Yuan's sudden kindness obviously has ulterior motives. In that case, why not take the opportunity to test his bottom line and see who is inspecting whom? (Reward: Immortal's Delight Tea. Extremely unhealthy junk drink, but a mysterious smile appears on the face after drinking. Drinking it can increase your ATK by 5 times for a short time. Drink less, it has high calories. It's fine, it's frozen after making, and the ingredient list says L-carnitine is added.)]
Kael: "..."
Looking at the three options appearing, Kael looked strange.
Immortal's Delight Tea... is this for real?
Increase ATK by 5 times?
If Zhongli drank this tea, could he exert 500% power?
This thing was truly heaven-defying.
Pity, although this option reward was good, it was a one-time consumable.
The best reward was still Option 1.
Looking at the reward of Option 1, Kael was tempted.
As long as his Path Power evolved into Lightning Attribute power, then in Teyvat, he could control Electro power.
He could definitely convert elemental power into Electro power.
This was a good thing.
The third option required testing "Jing Yuan's" bottom line.
That is, testing Zhongli's bottom line.
Completely unnecessary.
Since he already agreed to keep the secret, why test?
Zhongli wasn't Jing Yuan.
"Then, after finishing breakfast in a while, I'll take you around Liyue. At noon, listen to operas at Heyu Tea House."
In the next second, Zhongli looked at Kael and the others slowly. "In the evening, go to Pearl Galley to appreciate Liyue's flower boats and humanities."
"Eh?"
Hearing Zhongli's words, Paimon widened her eyes, looking interested. "Okay, okay! Anyway, we are unfamiliar with Liyue. Having you take us to play is the best."
Lumine scratched her head. "Where is the Liyue Adventurers' Guild? I also need to go there to register information and ask the Guild to help check for tasks."
Since clues about her brother were related to the Abyss Order, she would just pay for clues about the Abyss Order directly.
Although she could find the Liyue Qixing, right now the Qixing definitely had no time to pay attention to her.
"En, that is near Liyue Harbor. In the afternoon, we can go there."
Hearing Lumine's words, Zhongli nodded.
Immediately, after the three ate and drank their fill, they walked out of the breakfast stall.
Morning light spilled on the bluestone streets. The prosperity of Liyue City was gradually revealed.
Zhongli walked calmly in front, posture tall and straight, temperament refined.
Even amidst the hustle and bustle of the market, he still exuded a detached indifference.
On both sides of the street, various shops were already bustling.
Vendors displayed fresh goods, shouting one after another, smoke curling up.
People flowed constantly in front of teahouses and wine shops. Liyue's commercial atmosphere was revealed early in the morning.
Walking along the street, Zhongli introduced some cultural customs of Liyue City to Kael, Lumine, and Paimon from time to time.
His speech was unhurried, telling about Liyue's traditions, the operation of trade routes, and the historical stories behind the buildings.
At the corner of the street, an exquisitely carved archway was inlaid with ancient golden inscriptions. Zhongli brushed the stone pillar gently with his fingertips, saying lightly: "This archway was built by the Commerce Guild to thank Rex Lapis for his protection when Liyue Harbor opened five hundred years ago. At that time, Liyue's trade routes were just formed, trade exchanges were constant, and the city was prospering day by day."
Lumine glanced sideways, her heart moved slightly.
The faith of Liyue people in Rex Lapis was not only reflected in statue sacrifices but also engraved in every brick and tile of this city.
Paimon listened while looking around, staring at the snacks on the stalls from time to time, eyes revealing eager light.
Just then.
On a distant street.
A familiar purple figure was walking quickly.
Keqing walked hurriedly, the sound of her boots hitting the bluestone slabs crisp and steady.
Her expression was as cold as ever, eyebrows revealing habitual rigor, as if thinking about some important official business.
But in the next moment, her gaze inadvertently swept across a scene at the street corner, and her steps stopped abruptly.
"...?"
Keqing froze abruptly, a trace of astonishment flashing in her eyes.
Stopping slightly, her gaze fixed on the scene ahead.
Not far away, Kael and the others who had just arrived in Liyue yesterday.
At this moment, they were walking leisurely with Zhongli, the Consultant of Wangsheng Funeral Parlor.
And listening to him tell about Liyue's customs with relaxed expressions.
Paimon in the distance looked at the street stalls excitedly, leaning over from time to time to see if there was anything delicious.
And Lumine followed Kael closely, seeming quite interested in Zhongli's narration.
"How did they get acquainted so fast?"
Seeing this scene, Keqing frowned imperceptibly, a question flashing quickly in her heart.
Those who arrived in Liyue last night were traveling with the Consultant of Wangsheng Funeral Parlor this morning?
Keqing knew Zhongli's style well.
Although he was a Consultant of Wangsheng Funeral Parlor, he generally traveled alone.
But the scene in front of her looked like he was personally guiding these three to tour Liyue, natural as if they were old acquaintances for many years.
Truly incredible.
But in the next second, Keqing withdrew her gaze.
The Liyue Qixing held high positions and were busy with daily affairs. She naturally wouldn't personally ask about the whereabouts of a few foreign travelers.
Even if Kael and Lumine came from Mondstadt and were Honorary Knights endorsed by the Knights of Favonius.
Compared to Liyue's affairs, it wasn't important.
Now that the Rite of Descension was approaching, she was too busy.
Without hesitation, Keqing continued to walk away.
She wouldn't actively interfere with Wangsheng Funeral Parlor's affairs.
Zhongli was a Consultant of Wangsheng Funeral Parlor. What he did naturally had his own considerations.
Now she had more important things to do.
Soon, Keqing continued forward with steady steps, her figure quickly disappearing into the crowd.
At this moment, Kael, Lumine, and Paimon still followed Zhongli leisurely, continuing to stroll on the streets of Liyue.
Completely unaware that a Liyue Qixing had just noticed them briefly.
Even if they noticed, they didn't care.
Paimon floated in mid-air while looking around, muttering from time to time.
Seemingly still immersed in the food just now, eyes revealing satisfaction and curiosity about this city of Liyue.
However, just then—
"Wah! What is that?!"
Paimon's gaze suddenly fixed on a building in the distance.
Her eyes widened instantly, mouth opening wide in shock, as if discovering something incredible.
The architectural style ahead was luxurious.
Vermilion beams and cyan-gold tiled roofs complemented each other, the structure extremely magnificent.
A dazzling red plaque hung high at the entrance, engraved with large Liyue characters, showing grandeur.
And the appearance of the entire building carried an exotic luxurious aura.
Distinctly different from Liyue's local architectural style.
Paimon blinked, flying higher to take a look, sucking in a breath in amazement: "This place is too luxurious!"
"Which Commerce Guild does this belong to?"
Paimon turned to look at Zhongli, eyes full of curiosity. "To actually build such a big and resplendent building in Liyue City!"
Hearing Paimon's words, Zhongli looked up, a faint smile on his face, tone calm: "That is the Northland Bank."
"The property of the Fatui."
"..."
Paimon's smile froze instantly.
Paimon was stunned for a full two seconds before snapping back to reality abruptly.
Her whole person looked like she had been struck by thunder, retreating abruptly in the air, the shock on her face instantly turning into vigilance: "W-Wait a minute! You said that is the Fatui's property?!"
Paimon widened her eyes, her voice raising a few pitches. "Those bad guys?! They can actually open a bank in Liyue?! Th-How is this possible!"
Paimon's emotions were obviously ignited instantly.
Thinking of the Fatui's evil deeds encountered in Mondstadt, Paimon's voice even carried a trace of disbelief: "How could Liyue allow the Fatui to open a bank here?!"
"And so luxurious!"
Lumine also frowned slightly, looking at the building solemnly.
She had seen the Fatui's power in Mondstadt. Their methods could be said to be pervasive, even extremely disgusting.
But in a place like Liyue that stressed fair trade and commercial prosperity, they could actually open a bank in the city grandly?
This was too abnormal.
"What exactly is Liyue thinking?"
Lumine was puzzled, but she didn't speak immediately, continuing to listen to Zhongli's explanation.
Zhongli still looked calm, seemingly accustomed to such reactions.
Leading the three forward, he continued in a steady and slow voice: "Liyue stresses contracts and fair trade."
"Although the Northland Bank belongs to the Fatui, its existence is not unreasonable."
Zhongli paused, tone indifferent. "Liyue is the City of Trade. No matter who it is, as long as they abide by Liyue's contracts, they can establish themselves here."
"The existence of the Northland Bank is built on this contract."
Lumine frowned slightly, seemingly disapproving of this practice.
And Paimon still hugged her arms, muttering, "Sounds like Liyue's obsession with contracts is really more serious than imagined..."
She looked unwillingly at the magnificent building of the Northland Bank, unable to help whispering, "If I were in charge of Liyue, I wouldn't let the Fatui be so arrogant!"
Zhongli just smiled faintly at Paimon's words.
Looking deeply at the distant streets of Liyue, as if he hadn't heard.
"When the Fatui act outside, they also use funds provided by the Northland Bank, even using the bank as a base for activities."
Kael spoke slowly, "In Liyue's current situation, the Liyue Qixing definitely wants to uproot the Northland Bank, but the problem is that the Snezhnayan Fatui have already signed a contract. Even if Liyue wants to pull out this thorn rooted in the golden heart, they cannot do it."
"So that's how it is."
Hearing Kael's words, Paimon and Lumine scratched their heads, finally realizing this was the Nation of Contracts.
Even for the Fatui, as long as a contract was established, the Liyue Qixing had no way.
"In the past, there was cooperation between the Liyue Qixing and Snezhnaya, but now it is rare."
Zhongli also spoke, "But Liyue is the most prosperous country among the Seven Nations of the Mortal World. In previous years, there were also gods guarding it and the Qixing ruling it. So many of the Fatui's diplomatic means cannot be displayed in Liyue."
"Ningguang, one of the Seven Stars, has always been heavily guarded against the Fatui. The situation you encountered in Mondstadt will not happen here in Liyue."
"Oh oh."
Hearing Zhongli's words, Lumine and Paimon realized.
Immediately, Zhongli continued to take several people to appreciate Liyue's scenery and familiarize themselves with Liyue's architecture.
At this moment.
Northland Bank.
Inside a hidden mansion in the back.
Candlelight flickered. The Snezhnayan banner hung on the wall.
The room was filled with a faint scent of cedar.
A detailed map of Liyue was placed on the table, with some places specially marked.
In the center of the room, a soldier wearing a Fatui elite uniform knelt on one knee, reporting solemnly: "Lord Harbinger, the Traveler you ordered your subordinate to pay attention to has arrived in Liyue. Time determined to be last night."
"..."
Childe (Tartaglia), sitting behind the desk, paused slightly. His originally relaxed and casual expression instantly became deep.
It was Tartaglia.
The Eleventh Fatui Harbinger, "Childe".
He raised his eyebrows slightly, a trace of surprise and doubt appearing in his eyes. "Arrived already? So fast?"
He originally thought that Traveler would take at least a few more days to arrive in Liyue.
Maybe even stay in Mondstadt for a while longer. Who would have thought?
She actually arrived last night?
Childe frowned slightly, his expression darkening a few points, raising his hand to signal the Fatui elite to continue reporting.
"Currently, she is in Liyue City... walking with the Consultant of Wangsheng Funeral Parlor, Zhongli."
"It seems Mr. Zhongli is acting as her guide."
"..."
This time, Childe was really stunned. His finger holding the wine glass stagnated slightly, deeper doubts appearing in his eyes.
"She is with Zhongli?"
Why?
Lumine just arrived in Liyue. Logically speaking, she shouldn't have interactions with Liyue locals immediately.
She should familiarize herself with the town environment first, figure out Liyue's situation, and then slowly start to act.
But now, she just arrived in Liyue and got together with Zhongli from Wangsheng Funeral Parlor?!
This completely disrupted his plan!
Childe had been paying attention to Lumine's movements.
Thinking maybe he could use her ability to guide her into Liyue's situation.
Maybe even rope her in, making her have to accept the Fatui's help.
But now... Lumine was walking directly with Zhongli?
How did they meet?
Met accidentally?
Childe lowered his head and tapped the table gently, eyes narrowing slightly, thinking about the possibility of this matter.
Zhongli...
The only "friend" Childe could chat with normally in Liyue.
Whether it was the Liyue Qixing, the Millelith, or major merchant guilds and forces, they all maintained natural vigilance against the Fatui.
In this city, everyone looked at him with "guarding against thieves" eyes.
Only Zhongli didn't.
This Consultant of Wangsheng Funeral Parlor had no hostility and did not deliberately alienate him.
He spoke elegantly, was knowledgeable, knew the rules and etiquette of Liyue for thousands of years, and could talk about everything in the world, making people want to listen.
More importantly, he never looked at him with the identity of "Fatui."
Childe didn't think he had true friends in Liyue, but if he had to choose one he could get along with normally, perhaps only Zhongli.
So he was willing to spend money on Zhongli without asking for anything in return.
...But why is that Traveler with him as soon as she arrived?
And acting as a guide?
Childe's gaze gradually deepened.
Is this a coincidence?
Or?
"Sigh..."
After thinking for a while, Childe found he couldn't figure it out at all, and couldn't help sighing slightly.
Putting the wine glass back on the table, his expression gradually returned to normal.
"Continue to monitor, but don't intervene."
Childe pondered. "Also continue to inquire about why this Traveler is so fast."
"Tell me when she separates from Mr. Zhongli. Find out where she lives."
"I want to chat with her."
The Rite of Descension was about to begin. He had to use this Traveler as an entry point to act as soon as possible.
After all, Signora in Mondstadt had already succeeded.
And he hadn't succeeded yet.
His eating, drinking, and playing in Liyue during this time wasn't a waste of time.
But Liyue's defense was too deep.
Many places even prohibited Fatui from setting foot.
He couldn't sneak in quietly either.
Thinking of this, Childe had a headache.
The situation must be opened up so he could plan and act.
"Yes!"
Hearing Childe's words, this Fatui elite nodded immediately.
Watching the Fatui elite leave, Childe had a headache.
Zhongli actually acted as a guide for the Traveler. Even if he went up now, he couldn't provide any help, unable to strike up a conversation with that Traveler.
Headache.
While Childe had a headache.
Time passed quietly.
In a blink of an eye, the afternoon sun filled the streets of Liyue City, shining on the bluestone-paved streets, reflecting mottled light and shadows.
The entire city was filled with a lazy and leisurely atmosphere.
Zhongli took Kael, Lumine, and Paimon slowly into Heyu Tea House.
Inside the tea house.
Elegant fragrance lingered.
Celadon teacups were neatly arranged on the wooden table.
Sunlight shone through the rosewood carved window lattice in the room, reflecting a warm luster.
The tea was clear, and a faint tea fragrance filled the air, refreshing the mind.
"Liyue people treat guests with tea and discuss Dao with tea."
Zhongli picked up a cup of hot tea, blew off the foam on the tea surface gently, tone leisurely. "Drinking tea is a matter of paying attention to artistic conception."
Hearing this, Lumine nodded slightly subconsciously, her gaze sweeping over the layout of the tea house.
Indeed, every place revealed an ancient charm, making people immerse themselves in it involuntarily.
Paimon held a small teacup, trying hard to taste it, then wrinkled her small face, sticking out her tongue: "Uwu... So bitter!"
Seeing this, Kael shook his head with a laugh. "Tea stresses aftertaste. You are too impatient."
Zhongli smiled indifferently, didn't explain much, just drank slowly, quietly enjoying this short afternoon time.
The afternoon sun gradually slanted west.
The streets of Liyue City glowed with a layer of pale gold in the sunset.
Zhongli took Kael and the others into Yun-Han Opera Troupe.
This was the most famous opera place in Liyue, gathering many talented opera masters.
Every performance could attract countless audiences to support.
Soon, for today's performance, the curtain opened slowly.
An artist in a gorgeous costume appeared gracefully, singing slowly with a soft voice, the tune melodious and tactful.
Combined with the dramatic interpretation on stage, it vividly demonstrated Liyue's unique opera culture.
Paimon watched dumbfounded, staring at the performance on stage with glowing eyes, holding her face with both hands, looking amazed. "Wow—this is too amazing!"
She had never heard such melodious opera.
Every syllable seemed to carry thousands of years of cultural precipitation, immersing people in it.
"Liyue's opera carries the history and culture of this land."
Zhongli looked far away, slowly saying, "One fold of drama, one life. Many people's stories are hidden in this chanting."
However, after his gaze swept over the stage, he shook his head slightly, a trace of regret in his tone. "Unfortunately, Mr. Yun (Yun Jin) did not go on stage today."
Paimon was stunned, tilting her head doubtfully. "Mr. Yun? Sounds very powerful?"
Zhongli nodded gently. "One of the representatives of Liyue opera culture. Her singing style has a unique charm. If she were here, today's opera would definitely be on a higher level."
Seeing Zhongli say this, Kael smiled slightly.
Having heard Yun Jin's opera, he naturally understood Zhongli's meaning.
Liyue's opera stressed not just skill.
But the culture and spirit contained within.
Especially Yun Jin's The Divine Damsel of Devastation.
Speaking of which, he seemed to have a chance to hear it.
Just needed time.
Although Paimon didn't quite understand the deep meaning of the opera, she clapped her small hands excitedly. "Then next time we must listen to this Mr. Yun's performance!"
Zhongli nodded slightly, looking distant, seeming to recall some past opera masterpieces.
Time passed quietly.
The sun set in the west.
The glow on the horizon rendered the sky of Liyue, reflecting on the sea surface, sprinkling a piece of gold and red interwoven light and shadow.
Zhongli took Kael, Lumine, and Paimon slowly into the pier.
In the distance, a huge flower boat with carved beams and painted buildings, resplendent and magnificent, was quietly moored on the sea surface.
The vermilion hull was dotted with golden auspicious cloud patterns. Several glazed lamps hung on the deck, illuminating the entire ship in a dreamlike light.
It was the Pearl Galley.
Liyue's most prestigious banquet flower boat, currently moored by the harbor, waiting for distinguished guests to board.
Paimon watched dumbfounded, eyes wide and round, mouth slightly open, simply unable to believe the scene she saw: "Th-This is too extravagant, right?!"
On the flower boat, the sound of silk and bamboo came slowly. Glazed lamp shadows reflected the hull.
Maids carrying delicacies and wine shuttled through the deck, a scene of luxury and dreams.
In Mondstadt, she had never seen such a magnificent cruise feast!
"Liyue people have always stressed ostentation."
Zhongli's tone was peaceful, gaze falling on the Pearl Galley. "The Pearl Galley is one of the representatives."
Paimon stared at the guests in gorgeous clothes on the deck, exclaiming, "These people... wouldn't all be Liyue's big tycoons, right?"
"Those who can go up are either rich or noble."
Kael looked thoughtful. "But to go to the Pearl Galley, shouldn't we land from a small boat?"
"It seems Mr. Kael also knows something about the Pearl Galley."
Hearing Kael's words, Zhongli smiled. "That is at night. If you still want to board the Pearl Galley, you can take a small boat over."
"But generally, the Pearl Galley will also dock at the shore, letting those who wait early board first."
"Can't just arrange a small boat for a few people. Too time-consuming, too scattered. The number of small boats also needs to be large."
"True."
Hearing Zhongli's words, Kael nodded gently.
He agreed with Zhongli's words.
Immediately, Zhongli stepped onto the deck of the Pearl Galley first.
At this moment, several beautifully dressed merchants and celebrities were gathering at the cabin entrance to talk.
Suddenly, their gazes fell on Zhongli walking slowly.
After a brief silence.
One of them lit up, greeting him quickly, tone carrying a bit of respect and enthusiasm: "Mr. Zhongli, you are here."
Immediately, more people noticed Zhongli's arrival, casting awe-inspiring glances at him one after another.
Someone even actively invited him to sit, tone full of respect: "Mr. Zhongli, quick, please take a seat."
This scene made Paimon even more dumbfounded.
Quietly pulling Lumine's sleeve, lowering her voice: "Zhongli... is actually so popular?"
Lumine also felt a bit surprised.
After all, they originally thought Zhongli was just an ordinary Wangsheng Funeral Parlor Consultant.
Even if popular, there should be a limit.
But after a day, Zhongli's influence in Liyue seemed to far exceed their imagination.
Whether in Heyu Tea House, Yun-Han Opera Troupe, or the current Pearl Galley.
Zhongli was like a popular socialite.
"Mr. Zhongli, sit here."
In the distance.
A scholar saw Zhongli and waved quickly. "We are discussing something. Come discuss it with us."
"Okay."
Hearing this, Zhongli nodded.
Walked over.
"These are my new friends."
Zhongli sat down, introducing Kael, Lumine, and Paimon while signaling them to sit.
"Good. Mr. Zhongli's friends are our friends."
Hearing this, a scholar laughed heartily. "Friends recognized by you, Mr. Zhongli, are rare."
"Mr. Zhongli."
Saying this, the scholar looked at Zhongli. "We discussed the topic of Rex Lapis in history before. We thought of a new question these days, just need to discuss it with you."
"Oh? What question?"
Hearing this, Zhongli raised an eyebrow.
"We are thinking about the whereabouts of the First Mora in history."
A scholar smiled. "Where do you think this Mora would be?"
"As everyone knows, under the guidance of the Lord of Geo, the ancestors of Liyue smelted ore and used the initial goods to trade with the nations of the world."
"Today's Liyue holds the sole right to mint Mora in the entire continent. And the first Mora in the world should have been cast by the Lord of Geo himself thousands of years ago."
"Yes."
Beside him, a woman wearing glasses also nodded, saying, "According to my research... plus a little guess, I think this Mora with historical significance might have been passed down secretly as a token."
"For example... before each generation of the Qixing takes office, is there any ritual unknown to outsiders..."
"No no no, according to my research, the status of this first Mora is not that simple."
Another person shook his head. "As everyone knows, Mora is a catalyst. To this day, there are still magical arts circulating that use the efficacy of Mora in mysticism to enhance weapons."
"The first Mora in the world must contain the strongest power. So my next historical work is to boldly demonstrate the latest results of my ten years of devoted research!"
"That is—the Lord of Geo used this Mora as a catalyst to enhance a sword and a blade."
"Mora can also be used to enhance weapons?"
Hearing this, Paimon was stunned, subconsciously looking at Zhongli and Kael.
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