Chapter 30: An Audience with Power

Liyue Harbor loomed in the distance as Aether and his companions made their way back from Qingce Village. The day's events had gone well—the Treasure Hoarders were defeated, the trade route was secured, and the villagers were safe. But as they approached the towering gates of the city, the weight of their next step hung heavy in the air.

"Now comes the tricky part," Lisa said, her voice thoughtful. "We've proven ourselves useful by clearing the trade routes, but earning the favor of the Qixing is another matter entirely."

Rosaria, always pragmatic, added, "Let's not underestimate them. Ningguang is known for her precision. She'll see right through us if we don't play this smart."

Aether nodded in agreement. Gaining the trust of the Qixing was crucial if they were to learn more about the Abyss Order's movements in Liyue. But Ningguang, the Tianquan of the Qixing, was no ordinary leader. She held immense power, not just politically but economically, and every move she made was calculated.

Amber, ever the optimist, grinned as they approached the Yuehai Pavilion, the grand structure that housed the administrative offices of Liyue. "We've got this! We cleared the trade route, didn't we? Ningguang will have to see how useful we are!"

"Let's hope so," Aether replied, his voice filled with determination. "If we can get Ningguang's support, it'll give us the edge we need against the Abyss Order."

As they ascended the steps to the pavilion, the grandness of the place became even more apparent. The stone pillars were carved with intricate symbols, and the walls shimmered with the reflection of the harbor below. This was a place of power—both old and new—and Aether could feel the weight of it as they moved deeper into the building.

They were greeted by one of Ningguang's attendants, who guided them to a large room adorned with elegant tapestries and fine furniture. At the far end of the room, seated behind a grand desk of polished jade, was Ningguang herself.

The Tianquan of the Qixing was every bit as striking as Aether had imagined. Dressed in elaborate robes, her presence was commanding, yet there was a grace to her that suggested she was as much a tactician as she was a ruler. Her sharp golden eyes assessed the group as they entered, and she gave a polite nod of acknowledgment.

"Welcome, travelers," Ningguang said, her voice smooth and authoritative. "I have heard of your deeds. The Treasure Hoarders that have been disrupting our trade routes have been dealt with, thanks to your efforts. For that, Liyue is grateful."

Lisa stepped forward, her tone respectful but firm. "Thank you for meeting with us, Lady Ningguang. We've come to Liyue not just to offer our aid but to seek your counsel. The Abyss Order has been growing stronger, and we believe their next target is Liyue."

Ningguang's gaze didn't waver as she listened, her expression unreadable. "The Abyss Order is a dangerous foe, but Liyue has faced many dangers in its long history. What makes you think they pose a greater threat now than before?"

Aether stepped forward, his voice calm but filled with urgency. "We've seen their plans firsthand in Mondstadt. They're after power—more than just trade routes or treasure. They want to disrupt the balance of this world. If they gain control of Liyue's key sites, it could destabilize the entire region."

For a moment, there was silence in the room as Ningguang considered his words. Then, she stood and walked toward the large windows that overlooked the harbor, her back to the group.

"Liyue's strength lies not just in its wealth," Ningguang said quietly. "It lies in its balance—the balance between the mortals and the Adepti, between the contracts that bind us and the power of the land itself. The Abyss Order threatens that balance, but so do other forces, forces that are closer to home."

Amber frowned slightly. "What do you mean?"

Ningguang turned, her expression sharp. "The Qixing are not unified. There are those among us who believe that Liyue should rely less on the Adepti and more on human governance. They see the contracts that bind us to the gods as relics of the past, and they wish to sever those ties. This creates instability, and instability is what the Abyss Order thrives on."

Lisa's eyes narrowed, her voice thoughtful. "So the Abyss Order isn't just attacking from the outside. They're exploiting the divisions within Liyue."

"Precisely," Ningguang replied. "If the Qixing are divided, we cannot effectively defend Liyue. And that is where you come in. You have proven yourselves capable, and I believe you can help stabilize Liyue before the Abyss Order strikes again."

Aether exchanged a glance with Rosaria, feeling the weight of Ningguang's words. "What do you need us to do?"

Ningguang's expression softened slightly, though her tone remained firm. "There are key figures within the Qixing who need to be convinced that unity is our best defense. If you can help sway their opinions, it will strengthen Liyue's position against both the Abyss Order and other threats."

Lisa nodded, understanding the gravity of the task. "We'll do whatever it takes to protect Liyue."

Ningguang returned to her desk, her hands resting on the polished surface. "Good. I will arrange for you to meet with these individuals. But be cautious—Liyue's politics are as intricate as its trade. One wrong move, and you may find yourselves caught in a web of contracts and rivalries."

Amber, who had been quiet for most of the conversation, grinned confidently. "No problem! We've faced tougher challenges before!"

Rosaria, ever the realist, muttered, "This isn't just about fighting. We'll need to be sharp."

Aether felt a surge of determination. This was a different kind of battle—one fought with words and influence rather than swords and elemental powers. But it was just as important, if not more so. If they could unite Liyue's leadership, they would have the strength to stop the Abyss Order before it was too late.

"We won't fail," Aether said, his voice steady.

Ningguang gave him a small, approving smile. "I expect nothing less. Liyue's future is in your hands now."

As they left the pavilion, the weight of their new mission settled on Aether's shoulders. It wasn't just about defeating enemies or protecting villages—it was about ensuring that Liyue remained strong, united, and capable of facing the Abyss Order's growing threat.

"This is going to be tricky," Lisa said as they made their way back to the city streets. "We're not just fighting enemies anymore. We're navigating politics."

Amber, still full of energy, nodded enthusiastically. "Yeah! We'll just have to be smart about it. We've got this!"

Rosaria remained silent, her sharp eyes scanning the streets. She knew the road ahead would be full of hidden dangers—not just from the Abyss Order but from within Liyue itself.

Aether, feeling the complexity of their mission grow, looked out at the bustling harbor. They had won the first battle, but the war was far from over.