The questions grew more technical, delving into the minutiae of stress fractures and energy leakage, but Ren answered them all with a calm, practiced ease. Finally, the central Dastur leaned back, adjusting his spectacles.
"One final inquiry, Applicant Ren," he said, his tone no longer skeptical, but genuinely curious. "You have emphasized universality. You have stated your desire for this technology to be accessible to the common folk across Teyvat. Yet, you seek a patent. An international patent, enforced by the Akademiya."
He gestured to the stack of forms on the table. "A patent implies exclusivity. It implies control. If your goal is widespread adoption, does this legal framework not create a paradox? By patenting this 'home tech,' you are creating a barrier. Every merchant, every blacksmith who wishes to replicate your design to help their village, will face a mountain of paperwork to seek permission. Is this not redundant? Counter-productive to your stated mission of benevolence?"
Ren looked at the hologram, glowing softly in the air. He thought of the unregulated Delusions, of the chaos that came from unchecked power.
"It is a paradox," Ren admitted. "But a necessary one."
He looked up at the judges. "Yes, the patent is for protection. Protection of my rights, certainly. But more importantly, protection of the technology itself. If I simply release the schematics into the world without legal ownership, I lose the ability to define how it is used."
He stepped closer to the table. "These devices use elemental crystals. They manipulate energy. If a merchant decides to cut corners, to use inferior materials for the insulation to save mora, the device could overheat. It could explode. It could hurt the very families it was meant to warm. Without a patent, I have no legal standing to stop them. I cannot enforce safety standards."
His voice grew firm. "The patent gives me—and the Liyue Qixing—regulatory oversight. It means that anyone who wants to build a heater using my design must adhere to the safety specifications I have laid out. It creates a paper trail. It ensures that if a factory in Fontaine or a workshop in Inazuma starts producing dangerous knock-offs, we can stop them. The paperwork is a burden, yes. But it is a shield. It keeps the technology safe for the people."
The Dasturs exchanged glances again. The Spantamad scholar nodded slowly, a look of respect on her face.
"Regulation as a form of consumer protection," she murmured. "A mature perspective."
The central Dastur picked up a heavy, carved stamp. He looked at Ren one last time.
"The logic is sound," he pronounced. With a firm, decisive motion, he pressed the stamp onto the slate in front of him. Review Complete.
"The panel will now convene for internal deliberation to finalize the verdict," he stated formally. "However…"
He looked at Ren, his stern expression softening into a rare, genuine smile. "Speaking off the record, young man… we were impressed before you even walked in. To take such basic principles—resistive heating, thermal exchange—and apply them with such elegant, practical innovation is commendable. But your defense today… your composure, your understanding of the broader implications of your work… that is truly exceptional."
He gathered his papers. "I know this process is tedious. We ask these questions not to torment you, but because the records of the Akademiya are eternal. Every argument must be documented. But you have acquitted yourself well. Your Master, has clearly taught you more than just engineering."
Ren bowed deeply. "Thank you, Dastur." He didn't speak, letting the silence serve as a humble credit to Xianyun's guidance.
The session was adjourned.
They emerged from the exam room into the bright midday sun, blinking against the light. The tension that had held Ren's shoulders tight finally released, leaving him feeling light and hungry.
"That," Lisa said, draping an arm around his shoulders as they walked toward the lift, "was a masterclass in diplomacy, cutie. You had them eating out of the palm of your hand."
Ningguang walked on his other side, her stride confident. "You handled the regulatory questions perfectly. Framing the patent as a safety measure rather than a business monopoly appeals to the Akademiya's sense of order. Well done."
"I'm just glad the first part is over," Ren admitted, rubbing the back of his neck. "Now… lunch?"
"Absolutely," Ningguang declared. "And not just a quick bite. We are celebrating."
They went to Lambad's Tavern, a popular spot near the docks known for its vibrant atmosphere and rich, flavorful food. They secured a table on the upper balcony, overlooking the shimmering water.
The meal was a feast. Plates of Lambad Fish Rolls, Minty Bean Soup, and Butter Chicken piled high on the table. Ren ate with gusto, the savory spices of Sumeru a delightful change.
"So," Lisa said, twirling a forkful of salad. "One down, one to go. The afternoon session will be the real test. Azar won't be as easily charmed by talk of safety regulations."
"He will be looking for a flaw," Ningguang agreed, her eyes narrowing slightly. "Or an opportunity. The man-made Vision is a disruptive technology. He will want to know if it can be controlled, and more importantly, if the Akademiya can claim jurisdiction over it."
Ren wiped his mouth with a napkin. "I know. But the principle is the same. It's about democratization of power, but with strict accountability. I'll stick to the script."
"Just remember," Lisa added, "Khajeh will be there too. He's the Sage of Haravatat. He'll be looking at the runes, the language of the device. Make sure your terminology is precise."
"I've got it," Ren said, a confident grin returning to his face. "Besides, I have the two smartest women in Teyvat in my corner. What could go wrong?"
Ningguang laughed, a rich, warm sound. "Flattery will get you everywhere, Ren. Now, finish your fish rolls. You'll need the energy."
They sat in the warm breeze, enjoying the moment of victory. The hard part was still to come, the confrontation with the Grand Sage looming in the afternoon. But for now, surrounded by friends and good food, Ren felt ready for anything.