Lord of Geo and Lord of Anemo meeting

"Hmm?" In Mondstadt, Venti was savoring the wine in the comic store when suddenly, he sensed a familiar presence.

"Old Friend? How did he suddenly come to Mondstadt?"

Venti was quite surprised by the old man's sudden arrival. After all, it had been many years since that man last visited Mondstadt. Nevertheless, Venti had to meet the old man.

"Mr. Owner, I have something to attend to. I'll take my leave," Venti said as he held the wine and disappeared from the New Century Comic Store.

Based on the situation, Lumine should have already met with Zhongli. Perhaps they were buying Noctilucous Jade? Venti had sensed something just now.

Could it be that Lumine, Paimon, and Zhongli were all together in Mondstadt?

If that were the case, Venti's sudden departure would also make sense. Before coming to Teyvat, Takarou had played Genshin Impact to some extent. Combined with the plot, it was possible to make some guesses.

"Lumine, look! There's really a giant pot over there!" Paimon exclaimed, looking at the enormous pot in the Dadaupa Gorge.

"However, it seems like the Hilichurls are still using it. It might be a bit embarrassing, but let's cut in line," Paimon suggested.

The Hilichurls also noticed Lumine and the others' presence and charged towards them with their weapons. Lumine wielded the Rainbow Sword and utilized wind and geo elemental abilities, combining them with her swordplay, quickly dispatching the Hilichurls.

After dealing with the Hilichurls, they approached the large pot at close range.

Looking at the soup inside, Paimon exclaimed, "Wow... there's still soup in it. Hilichurls really have big appetites."

"What a waste of soup, but now it will serve as our testing ground."

"Lumine, Paimon, you two stay here and test it out. I'm going to meet someone I know," Zhongli suddenly felt the presence of Barbatos and informed Lumine and Paimon before leaving.

"Hey??"

"Zhongli just left when we were about to test it. Can you believe it?" Paimon was a little angry at Zhongli's sudden departure.

"Well, Paimon, Zhongli already told us the testing method. Let's follow his instructions," Lumine replied.

"Zhongli had his reasons for leaving suddenly."

"Alright, let's continue with the testing."

"Yay, let's get started."

"Old man has been a while." Venti quickly appeared in front of Zhongli.

Looking at Zhongli, he smiled with respect.

"Barbatos, why have you come?" Zhongli looked at his old friend and smiled faintly.

"I felt the presence of the God of Contracts, and when it suddenly appeared in Mondstadt, I knew the old man had arrived."

"So I came to see you. Old man, why did you suddenly come to Mondstadt?"

"I came with the Traveler to test the stone fragments," Zhongli explained.

"I see."

"Old man, I happen to have a bottle of fine wine with me today. How about tasting it together?"

"Oh? Wine? Although it's not the right time and place for tasting wine, the scenery of Mondstadt is quite nice."

"Since that's the case, let's have a sip." Venti smiled faintly and conjured two glasses out of thin air, along with a table and two chairs.

After inviting Zhongli to sit down, Venti poured him a glass of wine. As the fragrance of the wine filled the air, Zhongli became somewhat puzzled.

"When did Mondstadt have a wine more delicious than Dandelion Wine? Could this be a new fine wine?"

"Old man, this isn't a new product from Mondstadt. It's something I obtained from Mr. Owner's comic store."

"Speaking of Mr. Owner, I wonder if you've met him?"

"I have indeed seen Mr. Owner in Liyue and visited his store."

"For me, Mr. Owner is a mysterious person. I had never heard before that you could obtain rewards from a book but after I went to Mr. Owner's comic store, I discovered that it was indeed true."

"Well, I have to say, this Mr. Owner is truly mysterious."

"Not only mysterious, but also extremely talented."

"If he were to govern a country, I believe Mr. Owner would do a better job."

"Govern a country?"

"Venti, if I recall correctly, you're no longer involved in the affairs of Mondstadt, right?"

"Hehe..."

"Old man, Mondstadt's development can continue even without me."

"I usually just sing, enjoy the beautiful scenery, and drink some wine. That kind of life is enough for me. I also believe that under Jean's leadership, Mondstadt will prosper."

"Yes, even though we are gods, a nation cannot thrive without human governance if one day a nation loses its deity, I would be relieved if there is a capable successor to manage it."

"Old man, based on what you're saying, are you also considering handing over Liyue to someone else?"

"Yes, I have such thoughts."

"With the Funeral Rites ceremony, I have planned everything and let all of Liyue witness the demise of the Geo Archon. The next step depends on how the people of Liyue face it."

"If Liyue can manage better after losing its deity, then what does it matter if it no longer has a god?" Venti continue ask.

"If Liyue cannot face this challenge because of the departure of the Geo Archon, then what will happen in the future?"

"When the development of Liyue no longer satisfies me, I will appear before the people again and guide them forward."

"Old man, you've made quite a big move with this step." Upon hearing Zhongli words, Venti was greatly surprised.

He didn't expect the old man to play such a big game. If it were up to him, he wouldn't dare to do such a thing. However, the current Mondstadt was divided, with half believing in the existence of the Anemo Archon and the other half not.

But the management of Mondstadt was currently going well, so as the Anemo Archon, he could continue to slack off.

"No nation can exist without humanity."

"When the Traveler resolves the situation in Liyue, she will most likely head to Inazuma."

"I just don't know what difficulties the Traveler will face on her journey to Inazuma. Beelzebul, ever since she lost her sister, she has isolated herself and even closed off Inazuma. If the Traveler goes to Inazuma, it may be even more difficult than what Mondstadt and Liyue encountered. But I believe the Traveler will be able to resolve this matter." Speaking of Beelzebul's sister, Zhongli felt a hint of emotion in his heart.

Although he knew his own martial skills were not as strong as his sister's, he was unwilling to let her take risks. As an older sister, it was his duty to walk in front of his younger sister.

What a pity... What a pity...

______

A while later, Zhongli saw that Lumine had already found several Noctilucous Jades.

He stood up.

"Well, the Traveler's task is complete. I'll take my leave now."

"If you have the chance, you can come to Liyue for a visit."

"Hehe, old man, take care." Venti saw Zhongli preparing to leave and got up to bid him farewell.

Zhongli nodded and then left. Seeing the old man leave, Venti had nothing else to do here, so he also disappeared from Dadaupa Gorge.

"Oh, Zhongli, you're back?"

"Did you finish your conversation with your old friend?"

"Yes, we've finished talking."

"Mr. Zhongli, you're back just in time. We found the desired Noctilucous Jade, the No. 3 variety."

"No. 3 Noctilucous Jade? Since we've found it, let's go back and find Boss Shitou at the Jade Mystery."

"Alright." Then, they left Dadaupa Gorge and returned to Liyue Harbor.

They arrived at Jade Mystery place.

"Oh, the old master is back. I've kept the goods for you. Have you made a decision? Which one do you want?"

"I want the No. 3 Noctilucous Jade."

"Mhmm, yes, I remember that one."

"No problem, since you've set your sights on it, you can take it, old masters."

At this moment, Zhongli spoke up, "Mhmm, I'll take a case of the No. 3 Noctilucous Jade."

"Alright, please wait a moment. By the way... forgive me for being nosy, I'm just curious, what are you esteemed gentlemen planning to do with so many top-grade Noctilucous Jades?"

"Mhmm... there's no harm in telling. They're used to create the 'Rite of Parting.'"

"The 'Rite of Parting'...?! Um, I've heard some rumors recently, but I didn't dare to inquire too much. So, that means... the Geo Archon really..."

Speaking of this, the shopkeeper's expression turned downcast. "Sigh, it's hard to believe. Although the Jade Mystery has fallen on hard times, we've been blessed by the Geo Archon for generations." It is said that two hundred years ago, the Geo Archon, in disguise, ventured into the southern part of the city and tasted local snacks using Jade Mystery's jade spoon... All in the past, all in the past... Sigh, since it's the item used to bid farewell to the Geo Archon, I'll give you this case of Noctilucous Jades at half price." After hearing the shopkeeper's words, Paimon was astonished.

"Ah, can that really be done? The shopkeeper used to be so stingy..."

"Without the protection of the Geo Archon, Liyue Harbor wouldn't have its current appearance. As a businessman, how could I earn such money..."

"Wuwu... Shopkeeper, your kind intentions will surely reach the Geo Archon."

"With the joint efforts of the Liyue Seven Stars and the diligent merchants, I believe Liyue will continue to prosper as always."

"Yes, shopkeeper, Mr. Zhongli is right. So cheer up."

"Alright... Alright, thank you, esteemed gentlemen. Uh, why am I crying like this? My good fortune is slipping away, haha."

"Since the two of you have made your selection, we'll take the Noctilucous Jades and... Hey, wait a minute. Although it's half price, it doesn't mean you can get away without paying!"

"Oh, sorry, I forgot about the payment again. Let me see... Oh, it seems I forgot to bring it."

"What did you forget?" Paimon asked in confuse.

"I forgot to bring Mora. I feel ashamed for this oversight."

"To think that there are people in Liyue who don't care about money..."

"Lumine, what should we do? This is not a small amount... Oh, right, Childe seems to have given us an advance payment."

"It's on me."

"Fortunately, we have this money. Shopkeeper, does this amount suffice?"

"It's enough, it's enough. Half price is just about right. Actually, even if it's not enough, it doesn't matter."

"That's right, the Mora issue is resolved. Let's take the Noctilucous Jades to the Jade Chamber. That's the venue I've reserved..."

"Not even a single Mora was spent, and Mr. Zhongli has the audacity to brush it off like that!"

"Zhongli, remember to bring money next time."

"Mhmm, it's indeed necessary. I'll remember. Thanks to both of you."

--- In Other Place ---

"Lady Ningguang, this is the information brought back by Yelan."

The Baiyutang attendant, Baishi, handed over a piece of report to Ningguang. Ningguang took the information and opened it to read.

"Oh, they actually went to Mondstadt specifically for the Rite of Parting. Interesting."

Ningguang looked at the report provided by Yelan, furrowing her brows slightly. Although the "Rite of Parting" is indeed handled by the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor, the Geo Archon is, after all, the deity of Liyue.

Ningguang naturally had to pay close attention to this matter.

"Alright, I understand. Let Yelan continue to keep an eye on it."

"Is there any news from Beidou's side?"

"Regarding Beidou's side..." Before Baishi could finish, Baiwen walked in.

"Lady Ningguang, there's new reportfrom Lady Beidou."

"Oh, quickly show me."

"Here you go, Lady Ningguang." Baiwen handed over the report to Ningguang.

Ningguang opened the report and furrowed her brows even deeper. According to the report from Beidou, the flow of the earth's veins in the sea area near the Guyun Stone Forest is particularly interesting, more active and chaotic than other parts of Liyue... It seems that there is some indomitable power pulsing weakly in the depths of the sea.

"Perhaps it's the suppressed Abyssal God, Osial, still writhing in the deep sea"

"Could it be that the Abyssal God of Whirlpools, Osial, also learned about the demise of the Geo Archon?"

"According to what Mr. Owner said, Liyue will experience a disaster in the next few days. Could it be referring to this?" Ningguang held the report in her hand, lost in thought.

If what Beidou discovered and what Mr. Owner mentioned about the disaster are indeed related to the Abyssal God of Whirlpools, Osial, then if the Abyssal God of Whirlpools appears in Liyue Harbor, it would undoubtedly bring disaster to Liyue Harbor.

"Baishi, Baiwen, go and find the Adepti of the Qixing. Let them pay more attention to the seaside."

"In addition, send people..."

"No..."

"Have the Adepti of the Qixing stationed around Liyue Harbor, ready to evacuate all the residents at any time."

Originally, Ningguang intended to have the Adepti of the Qixing evacuate all the residents of Liyue Harbor immediately.

However, with the "Rite of Parting" approaching, if she were to ask the Adepti of the Qixing to arrange the people of Liyue Harbor to another location at this time, it would likely cause dissatisfaction among the majority.

After all, if the people of Liyue Harbor are not allowed to participate in the "Rite of Parting" after losing the Geo Archon, they might misunderstand the Seven Stars of Liyue even more.

They might even spread rumors that the Geo Archon was killed and that the Seven Stars of Liyue were the culprits.

Ningguang was well aware of the rumors circulating among the common people. If that were the case, it would be easier for her to take over Liyue.

Therefore, Ningguang couldn't do that. For now, she could only arrange for the Adepti of the Qixing to be ready at all times. As soon as they learn that the Abyssal God of Whirlpools is about to appear, they can evacuate those residents to a safe area.

"But... that's a god..." Ningguang's mood suddenly turned gloomy.

______

However, she quickly shook her head. How could she be afraid before even fighting?

She obtained the AH-64 Apache helicopter from the comic shop, which had such powerful firepower. Even if it's an Abyssal God, it probably has the power to fight. Since that's the case, what is there to fear?

If she really can't handle it, she can simply bring the Jade Chamber above the Abyssal God and crush it!

As one of the Seven Stars of Liyue, since the Archon entrusted Liyue to them for management, Ningguang naturally wouldn't allow Liyue to be destroyed under her watch!

She wanted to preserve the prosperity of Liyue Harbor as it is now. There are still many things she hasn't done yet. But while the Abyssal God has yet to appear, she can summon Beidou back and take her to the New Century Comics Shop to read the comics.

"Baiwen, write a letter to Beidou. Let her know that I'm aware of the situation and ask her to be vigilant."

"If she has time, she can come back to Liyue Harbor."

"I'll take her to the New Century Comics Shop to see the comics."

"Understood, Lady Ningguang."

"Gabumon~" As everyone left, Gabumon approached Ningguang.

Perhaps sensing Ningguang's worries, Gabumon came to her side and comforted her.

"Partner, Liyue will become very turbulent soon." Seeing Gabumon arrival, Ningguang reached out and stroked its fur. Since obtaining Gabumon from the comic shop, Ningguang had her secretary prepare everything the creature needed to eat every day.

It can be said that Gabumon is not far from evolving at this point. Ningguang was also curious about what Gabumon would look like after evolving. In regards to this, Ningguang was also looking forward to it.

"Gabumon~" Gabumon nudged Ningguang's body with its head.

"Alright, little one, since you want to play, I'll play with you for a while." Ningguang slowly stood up and then played with Gabumon inside the Jade Chamber. This could also be seen as Improvement bond with the Digimon On the Jade Chamber.

...

Zhongli stopped and looked at Lumine.

"The Noctilucous Jades can be placed here. I've already sent someone to call the jeweler. They will craft them into the necessary ritual artifacts. By the way, I haven't had the chance to visit the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor yet, nor have I seen Childe. The jeweler's compensation, as well..." Zhongli speak.

"Then we can get reimbursement from Childe later." Paimon Reply.

"That's the only way. Speaking of which, is this the venue for the 'Rite of Parting'?" Lumine ask.

"Yes, I've already rented this area and started preparing for the ritual." Zhongli reply.

"But the 'Rite of Parting' was also held here, and now the 'Rite of Ascension' will be held here as well." Lumine looked around and remembered that when she first arrived, Ningguang and the others held the 'Rite of Parting' here.

"Yes, it's the same venue. This is the tacit approval of the Seven Stars of Liyue."

"But such a major incident just happened here... Ah, come to think of it, the Adepti of the Qixing probably won't let us get close to this place, right?"

"If the Adepti of the Qixing come here later, that wouldn't be good."

"Also, the body... uh, the 'Exuvia' of the Archon that was left here."

"Traditionally, it can be called the 'Exuvia of the Archon'."

"Ah, right, that's the name. How does Zhongli know everything? So, the 'Exuvia of the Archon' was hidden by the Seven Stars of Liyue? But haven't they figured out the culprit yet?"

"It can only mean that the Seven Stars already have a good idea or have already determined that all the clues at the scene have been gathered."

"I still find it somewhat strange. Are we being too rash?"

Those matters will be considered by the important figures of the Jade Chamber. Trying to share their worries would only add unnecessary troubles. Before the ceremony, the 'Exuvia of the Archon' will be temporarily placed in the 'Golden House'."

Upon hearing this, Paimon suddenly became excited. "The 'Golden House'?"

"That's Liyue's only minting facility, and it's also the only minting facility in all of Teyvat. All the Mora circulating in the seven human nations is minted there."

"Wow~" Paimon couldn't help but drool with excitement.

"Ah, no, I wasn't thinking about anything bad. I mean, it's very fitting for Morax's persona."

"But why does Zhongli know about this?"

"That's because the 'Rite of Ascension' has received the tacit approval of the Seven Stars. It can be considered a semi-official event, so I can obtain some insider information."

"The Seven Stars provide the venue, and Childe provides the funding. What exactly do they want to accomplish with this ceremony?"

Lumine couldn't help but ponder. She felt that there was a larger conspiracy at play in this matter.

"Perhaps they each have their own goals. However, occasionally being used by others in the commercial capital is not an unacceptable situation."

"Zhongli, according to what you're saying, aren't we also being used by Childe now?" Lumine frowned slightly, somewhat disagreeing.

"Traveler, don't forget that you received a reward from Childe. According to Liyue's contract, you should complete this task and after you returned from Jueyun Karst, Childe also provided you with funds to prepare the necessary items for the 'Rite of Ascension' together with me."

"In Liyue governed by the God of Contracts, only the contract must not be violated. As for actions outside of the contract, I don't mind."

"Now, let's go prepare the incense paste for the ceremony."

"Incense paste? Where should we get it? Should we just buy it directly?"

"No, this kind of sacred incense paste requires a special quality of 'Qingxin Flower'. It's also quite unique. The petals of the 'Nixiang' are excellent fiber materials used for making brocade."

"But its fragrance is very elegant and particularly suitable for solemn occasions when offering to divine beings."

"Oh, here comes the time for Zhongli to educate us on upper-class knowledge again."

Zhongli didn't mind Paimon's sarcastic comment and continued to explain, "We don't need to go into more specific details for now. Let's first go together to the merchant to purchase the materials."

"Alright then, Zhongli, let's go." Lumine nodded and followed Zhongli's steps.

A while later... They arrived at the place to purchase the 'Qingxin Flower'. They arrived and met the owner of the "Universal Store," Bolai.

Paimon looked at the owner and immediately spoke up, "Boss, do you have 'Qingxin Flower' here?"

"'Qingxin Flower'? Of course we do. Which type do you want?"

"Uh, which type? Just, just the best one. Oh, so there are many types of 'Qingxin Flower'?"

Upon hearing this, Bolai couldn't help but show a disdainful expression on his face.

"Hmph, an uncultured foreigner. There are many types, you know..." Coincidentally, Zhongli spoke up at this moment.

"'Golden Chamber Conceals Beauty', 'Mountain Shade Silk Cluster', 'Elusive Fairy Destiny'—please bring one of each to show us, Boss." Upon hearing this, Bolai suddenly understood. The man beside him was the knowledgeable expert.

"Oh! This sir is quite knowledgeable!"