Episode 174.7: Everyone, look, times have changed
『 How could the deceased Rex Lapis possibly appear in a Qixing's dream?
Ningguang slowly walked over to the adeptus and began to recount what she had seen and felt in her dream.
"In my dream, I wanted to say to Lord Rex Lapis: 'We Qixing, though mere mortals, are bound by contracts. The accumulated wisdom of generations of Qixing ensures that each Qixing leaves behind something worthy of inheritance."
"I also wanted to tell Rex Lapis that under your guidance, generations of Qixing have striven to survive in this world, even establishing a system based on trade contracts. But I didn't say any of this; I just watched Rex Lapis silently until the dream ended."
After speaking, Ningguang's expression dimmed, and her head involuntarily drooped.
"Aw, Ningguang..." Paimon hesitated, unable to find the right words to comfort her.
After some deep thought, Lumine finally stepped forward and softly said, "No, actually, perhaps the feelings we all experience in our respective positions are similar."
Cloud Retainer, who was struggling to find a breakthrough in the discussion, turned her gaze to the only outsider present—Lumine.
"Outsiders often see things more clearly. Do you have any unique insights?"
Because Lumine didn't belong to Liyue and wasn't even a regular visitor to Teyvat, her perspective was bound to be fresh, perhaps bringing a breath of fresh air to the dull atmosphere.
Lumine collected her thoughts, took a step forward, and slowly said: "Once a conflict arises between the protector and the protected, harmony becomes very difficult to restore."
"Yes, right, that's something that happened in Mondstadt — it's a story about the Four Winds and the people of the Anemo Archon." Paimon nodded solemnly, adding.
"The Anemo Archon tried his best to avoid conflict between them, believing that such opposition would only leave scars in both their hearts, serving no good." Lumine's memories were filled with the days she spent in Mondstadt.
"This is the lesson we learned in Mondstadt, the City of Freedom." 』
『 .....』
〜Dimensional livestream, Chat Room〜
[ Paimon (Genshin Impact): "It's all because of a certain Archon who likes to slack off, causing this whole series of events." ]
[ Venti (Genshin Impact): "Ehe~" ]
[ Oyama Mahiro (Onimai): "A certain Archon who likes to slack off... is it the one from Mondstadt?" ]
[ Jean (Genshin Impact): "This..." ]
[ Venti (Genshin Impact): "After all, our Anemo Archon, Lord Barbatos, is a God of Freedom, you know." ]
[ Lumine (Genshin Impact): "I think sometimes it's a bit too much freedom." ]
[ Zhongli (Genshin Impact): "..." ]
[ Dvalin (Genshin Impact): "...So, can you do something serious, Barbatos?" ]
[ Venti (Genshin Impact): "I believe Lord Barbatos, the Anemo Archon, is definitely making amends." ]
[ Barbara (Genshin Impact): "???" ]
[ .....]
『 After Lumine finished speaking, Keqing also came forward and echoed: "Yes, the Seven Nations of Teyvat each have their own challenges."
Whether it's the stories sparked by freedom in freedom-loving Mondstadt, or the various issues brought by contracts in Liyue, a nation founded on contracts, or the stories unfolding in other regions, none can escape turmoil and strife.
Mountain Shaper listened to Lumine's words and sighed helplessly: "You say it's simple, but as adepti, how can we let you, who have come from afar, witness our imperfections?"
These words made Moon Carver and Cloud Retainer fall into deep thought.
Madame Ping, seeing this, also joined in to persuade: "Alright, alright, didn't Ningguang just tell us to take a good look at this city and get to know its people better? I've experienced this kind of observation, and it's been very fruitful. Why don't you all try it too?"
As if to confirm Madame Ping's words, a Millelith soldier quickly approached, stood at attention, saluted everyone, and said: "Esteemed adepti, I apologize for appearing in full armor. I'm afraid I cannot show the proper courtesies."
Moon Carver, seeing this, calmly asked: "Who are you, sir?"
The Millelith soldier first performed a military salute according to regulations, then explained his purpose: "I am the Millelith instructor, Fengyan. I specifically represent the Millelith to express our gratitude to all adepti. We originally thought this would be the Millelith's last battle, but thanks to the adepti's assistance, we were not completely wiped out. The adepti displayed magnificent power. Although we are but mere mortals, we will stand firm on the defensive line and not disgrace the grace bestowed upon us by the adepti today!"
After Fengyan finished his heartfelt words, he turned and left, as he still had many important responsibilities on his shoulders.
But his words made Cloud Retainer and the other adepti fall into deep thought.
At this moment, a sweet voice drifted into everyone's ears: "Huh? Why does everyone look so down? Didn't we just beat that big monster?"
It was a little girl speaking, the good child who wanted to feed the dog, Changchang. Madame Ping saw her coming and kindly turned to ask her: "Hehe, little girl, aren't you scared? It was very dangerous just now~"
Changchang didn't think much and directly answered Madame Ping's question: "Changchang isn't scared, because the Millelith uncles are here, and there are many powerful big brothers with Visions. There are strong big brothers and sisters, and all the big brothers and sisters of Liyue, so many people together."
"When there's danger, everyone protects Changchang; normally, everyone makes delicious food and fun things, making this harbor even more beautiful!"
As everyone was pondering, Changchang saw the handsome big brother standing nearby. Although she didn't know who this big brother was, she knew that the people standing here were the heroes who had just saved Liyue Harbor.
"Oh, by the way, big brother, thank you for protecting Liyue Harbor! Next Lantern Rite, Changchang wants to invite you over as a guest, okay?"
Changchang was full of anticipation, but Xiao quickly declined her invitation: "I, I cannot come."
"Why not?" Changchang's wide eyes were full of confusion.
Xiao gazed at the innocent Changchang before him and softly gave his answer: "Because I am an adeptus."
And Changchang, after hearing Xiao's reason for not being able to come to the Lantern Rite, expressed her regret.
"Oh, I see. It seems being an adeptus big brother isn't easy."
Young Changchang couldn't yet understand the heavy responsibilities on the adepti's shoulders. She only knew that she hadn't successfully invited Xiao to the Lantern Rite.
The reason was simple: this big brother was an adeptus.
Although she didn't know exactly what an adeptus was, it must be a rather troublesome identity.
That was all little Changchang could understand.
Changchang's words not only made her feel regret but also caused Xiao to involuntarily fall into deep thought.
Madame Ping, seeing this, quickly continued to persuade them.
"Everyone, look, times have changed."
"In this nation of contracts, we are still grateful for the adepti's contributions, but over the years, various problems among the common folk have not been solved solely by adeptal power."
"The mortals we speak of, whose bloodlines may seem fragile, have shown astonishing resilience."
"The contract between the gods and Liyue spans a thousand years. Now, it is time for Liyue and humanity to forge a new covenant."
"Alas, look around us. Standing here, we already seem a bit out of place." After saying this, Mountain Shaper didn't forget to turn to Cloud Retainer, who was maintaining a lofty posture beside him, and asked, "Isn't that right, Cloud Retainer?"
Cloud Retainer, directly named, immediately retorted indignantly: "Hmph, why ask me? It wasn't me who led the charge to cause trouble in Liyue Harbor this time." 』
『 .....』
〜Dimensional livestream, Chat Room〜
[ Cloud Retainer (Genshin Impact): "Hmph, you old geezers, you only know how to talk about this adeptus." ]
[ Mountain Shaper (Genshin Impact): "I wonder who was so nervous before." ]
[ Madame Ping (Genshin Impact): "Alright, alright, don't make a fuss. It wouldn't be good for others to laugh at you." ]
[ Cloud Retainer (Genshin Impact): "Hmph." ]
[ Ganyu (Genshin Impact): "Master..." ]
[ Chika Fujiwara (Love Is War): "Great, it should be over now, right?" ]
[ Shinomiya Kaguya (Love Is War): "It should be over, right?" ]
[ Chika Fujiwara (Love Is War): "Hehehe, my true feelings came out." ]
[ Cloud Retainer (Genshin Impact): "..." ]
[ Shinomiya Kaguya (Love Is War): "According to that, the era of humans in your world has also arrived, hasn't it?" ]
[ Keqing (Genshin Impact): "Yes, the era of human governance has arrived." ]
[ Keqing (Genshin Impact): "Although that is something that will happen in the future, we must also work towards that direction." ]
[ Cloud Retainer (Genshin Impact): "Hmph." ]
[ .....]
『 Lumine and Paimon watched the scene from the side, and seeing this harmonious moment, they seemed to realize that the adepti were gradually accepting Liyue's new appearance.
Perhaps this was the beginning of the adepti gradually understanding the current situation of Liyue.
However, when this scene entered Xiao's eyes, an indescribable emotion arose in his heart. This feeling was too subtle and elusive for him.
So, he made a decision: "Alright, let's go back." With that, his figure flickered, and he vanished like the wind.
As soon as Xiao left, Moon Carver softly called his name, his voice filled with complex emotions.
At this moment, Mountain Shaper also spoke: "I can somewhat understand the Conqueror of Demons' thoughts. This Liyue Harbor, which I haven't seen for so long, is vastly different from how I remember it."
"I fear that once we adapt to this new contract between humans and gods, the wisdom of mortals will once again paint a completely new picture in Liyue, won't it?"
After saying this, Mountain Shaper sighed with emotion, a faint sense of loneliness welling up in his heart.
They, the adepti, were supposed to be Liyue's protectors, but they seemed to have become relics of a bygone era, out of place.
Thousands of years had passed, and every inch of Liyue's land had undergone tremendous changes, making it feel utterly unfamiliar.
Even their revered Geo Archon had fallen, so what did they still count for in Liyue?
"Never mind, never mind. Better to return, better to return." After speaking, Mountain Shaper spread his wings and flew high, his figure gradually receding into the distance, merging with the sky.
Moon Carver, seeing this scene, also decided not to do anything more.
"Alright, if the other adepti have no objections, then I will no longer insist. But before I leave, I must say one thing to everyone present:"
"However, after we leave, the question of whether the Liyue Qixing will monopolize power, in my view, is still a thing to be guarded against..."
Ningguang gazed at the receding figure, a faint smile playing on her lips, but she said nothing. She knew that words were empty talk now; only in the future, under the watchful eyes of the adepti, would the truth be revealed.
"Alright, alright, Moon Carver, let us old bones not worry too much. The matter of supervision should be borne by all the people," Madame Ping said earnestly, and then left with Moon Carver.
"That was a close call! A conflict between humans and adepti almost broke out. Thankfully, the adepti were quite reasonable this time." Paimon said, then seemed to suddenly remember something important. "However, peace is good, but there seem to be lingering issues unresolved."
"Childe wanted to unleash the god so he could lure Rex Lapis out! But we were able to handle the Overlord of the Vortex on our own... So Rex Lapis never showed up!"
"Oh, and speaking of that — don't we still need to get to the bottom of that archon's "death," too?"
"Paimon doesn't get it... But, isn't the strongest lead we have the adepti-less Rite of Parting that we're organizing? Never mind, let's just go to Wangsheng Funeral Parlor and ask Zhongli directly."
So, the two made up their minds and decided to immediately head to Wangsheng Funeral Parlor to inquire about the aftermath from Zhongli. 』
『 .....』
〜Dimensional livestream, Chat Room〜
[ Paimon (Genshin Impact): "Oh, right, Zhongli has been back for a long time. I wonder how he's doing." ]
[ Keqing (Genshin Impact): "We Qixing shouldn't lay hands on Mr. Zhongli either." ]
[ Hu Tao (Genshin Impact): "I hope so. I remember how you all targeted me." ]
[ Ningguang (Genshin Impact): "Hehe, as long as Director Hu can promote normally, we won't say much." ]
[ Hu Tao (Genshin Impact): "I'm very normal, aren't I?" ]
[ Hu Tao (Genshin Impact): "Life, old age, sickness, and death are such normal things, why be afraid?" ]
[ Miyamizu Mitsuha (Your Name): "Perhaps, only you think that way." ]
[ Paimon (Genshin Impact): "I agree with what you said." ]
[ Hu Tao (Genshin Impact): "Sigh, another person who can't understand me." ]
[ .....]
" In Between "
〜Genshin Impact World〜
Liyue, Wangsheng Funeral Parlor—
At this moment, Zhongli and Hu Tao were sitting in the main hall of Wangsheng Funeral Parlor, their eyes fixed on the livestream.
Seeing Wangsheng Funeral Parlor about to appear in the livestream, Hu Tao couldn't help but turn to Zhongli and ask a question.
"Zhongli, do you think our Wangsheng Funeral Parlor can safely weather this storm?"
Zhongli didn't directly respond to Hu Tao's concern but instead asked a seemingly unrelated question.
"Is it because I got too close to the Fatui that this storm arose, Director? Don't you mind?"
Hu Tao blinked at Zhongli, her face full of confusion.
"Mind what? I know you're thinking about our family's money bag. It's fine."
Ever since Zhongli got to know Childe, their account has been getting better day by day.
Hu Tao said she could take as many of these suckers as possible.
As for external influences, Hu Tao didn't care at all.
Zhongli, hearing the Director's generous reply, feigned mystery and reassured her,
"Director, rest assured, Wangsheng Funeral Parlor will definitely be safe and sound."
However, Hu Tao's attention had already been completely drawn by the lively atmosphere in the livestream, and she didn't notice the deeper meaning in Zhongli's words.
"Hey, what do you mean by that?"
Hu Tao asked, bewildered.
Only Zhongli sighed inwardly at this moment.
"Ultimately, it has to be revealed..."
—
『 The scene shifted. Two people appeared not far from Liyue's Wangsheng Funeral Parlor.
Upon arriving at the entrance, the ferrylady at the door showed a surprised expression when she saw someone coming to Wangsheng Funeral Parlor at this time.
"What can I do for you two? Wangsheng Funeral Parlor is busy right now and not very convenient for live guests."
Looking at the ferrylady in a black dress, looking mysterious and solemn, Paimon lightly stepped forward and politely spoke: "Hi, we specifically came to find Zhongli. Could you please help us inform him?"
The ferrylady smiled apologetically and replied, "I'm so sorry, Mr. Zhongli is not in the parlor right now. I heard he was invited to the Northland Bank as a guest."
"Zhongli went to the Northland Bank?" Paimon's heart was filled with doubts, but then she quickly made a decision.
"Although we don't know the specifics, let's just go there and find out!" 』
『 .....』
〜Dimensional livestream, Chat Room〜
[ Keqing (Genshin Impact): "Mr. Zhongli, you..." ]
[ Zhongli (Genshin Impact): "Perhaps, the answer you seek is in the upcoming scene, isn't it?" ]
[ Stelle (Honkai: Star Rail) "Could it be that Mr. Zhongli betrayed Liyue?" ]
[ March 7th (Honkai: Star Rail) "No way, no way, Mr. Zhongli seems like a very upright person?" ]
[ Hu Tao (Genshin Impact): "Don't talk nonsense, my Zhongli wouldn't!" ]
[ .....]
『 The scene shifted again. Not far from the Northland Bank, the two cautiously followed the route from memory and soon arrived at their destination.
Before they even got close, Lumine's ears caught a gasp from inside the bank's main entrance.
"What?! You're saying this is a collaborative project between us, Harbingers?" Childe's incredulous voice slipped out the door. "For this level of cooperation, we should at least have been informed beforehand, shouldn't we?"
Immediately after, a very familiar voice joined the conversation, making the two of them pause.
"Hehe, Childe, don't fuss over these small matters. I know very well that in the end, you don't take these petty squabbles to heart at all."
"You had a good time after making a big scene, didn't you? That's just like you."
Hearing this, Lumine couldn't contain her curiosity and abruptly pushed open the heavy doors of the Northland Bank.
The people talking inside noticed the new visitors and then spoke up to remind them:
"Oh? It seems your friends have arrived." 』
『 .....』