After the playful scuffle, Rover gazed at the vast Liyue Harbor, lost in thought.
I really do need a guide...
"By the way, regarding the Geo Archon Morax... the Mora we use is named after this deity. In Liyue, we must refer to Him as 'Rex Lapis'—otherwise, we'll be seen as rude outsiders."
Paimon, recalling some of Liyue's cultural customs, hastily spoke up. Just then, a composed voice interjected at the perfect moment.
"Though Rex Lapis is indeed revered, you exaggerate slightly, young one."
A tall figure stood before them, golden pupils faintly shimmering with diamond-like clarity, sharp enough to pierce through one's heart.
Aether raised an eyebrow, casting a dubious glance at Paimon.
Didn't you say everyone in Liyue worships and respects the Geo Archon? How come we immediately run into a critic?
"Uh..."
Paimon shot an annoyed glare at the man who had appeared. Unfazed, he calmly introduced himself:
"Zhongli, consultant of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor. At the director's behest, I've come to promote our services. I happened to overhear your discussion about Rex Lapis and grew curious."
Watching Zhongli solemnly hand a Wangsheng Funeral Parlor flyer to Aether, the latter took one glance and nearly lost his composure.
"Who the heck promotes coffins during a festival like this?!"
Paimon snatched the flyer and immediately resumed its usual snarky commentary.
Rover stroked his chin, equally stunned by the promotional slogans on the flyer.
Buy one coffin, get one free!? Full burial services included!?
So the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor is the officially certified burial institution...
Ahem. "Since Mr. Zhongli seems so knowledgeable about Liyue, could we hire you as our guide?"
Noticing the atmosphere growing increasingly awkward, Rover quickly stepped in to save Zhongli from further embarrassment.
Zhongli nodded and gestured toward the heart of Liyue with an inviting hand.
"Very well. I shall comply with your request."
...
"Earlier, you mentioned a festival... It just occurred to me that today is the Rite of Descension. Last year, the Qixing's representative who petitioned for divine guidance was the Yuheng of the Liyue Qixing."
Zhongli's remark took Rover by surprise.
Aether's guess was right—locals don't pay much attention to this kind of event.
"Hehe, I know this one! The Liyue Qixing are the true rulers of this nation—seven major merchants representing seven different commercial factions!"
Finally back in its element, Paimon puffed up with pride, ready to show off its knowledge—only to be interrupted yet again.
"My, foreigners always say that. Allow me to introduce myself—I am Linlang, proprietor of Xigu Antiques."
The woman, who had been idly examining an antique, set it down and leisurely addressed Paimon and the group.
Paimon felt utterly exasperated. Every time it tried to say something, someone would contradict it—as if the heavens themselves were conspiring against it.
"The true ruler of Liyue has always been Rex Lapis. The Qixing are merely mortals, while His Majesty is a god. The God of Freedom may be absent from Mondstadt, but our deity is eternal."
Rover could hear the pride and reverence in the woman's voice. Aether nodded in agreement.
Forget about Rex Lapis for a moment—that line about the God of Freedom not being in Mondstadt is spot-on!
Venti, do something useful for once!
At this, Zhongli's eyes dimmed slightly. He gazed toward the depths of Liyue, lost in thought—though he soon regained his usual composure.
"Yet even gods must one day fade. The sturdiest stone will eventually return to dust beneath the weight of time."
"Liyue must be prepared for an age without its deity."
Zhongli's tone was calm, almost detached. Linlang's expression darkened at his words.
"Mr. Zhongli, such words are best left unspoken today—especially on the day Rex Lapis is to descend."
"Naturally."
With a faint reply, Zhongli bid Linlang farewell and led the group onward.
"Young one, why not continue your introduction to Liyue? I'd like to hear how outsiders view our nation."
Paimon shook its head dejectedly, waving its hands.
"No, no! Every time I say something, someone jumps out to correct me!"
The remark drew laughter from the group.
"In truth, some locals do attend the Rite of Descension—though most are merchants."
Taking over Paimon's role, Zhongli proceeded to explain the ceremony.
"Yujing Terrace—the highest point in the harbor, and the site where the Rite of Descension is held."
When they arrived, they found the area already crowded. The central space had been cordoned off by the Millelith, leaving only a distant view of a massive incense burner and offerings atop it. Flags stood tall at each corner, lending a solemn air to the ceremony. Smaller incense burners for prayers and wishes were placed at the four cardinal directions.
"For the people of Liyue, this is all quite commonplace. I shall leave you to witness Rex Lapis' descent in peace."
Zhongli prepared to take his leave, but Rover stopped him.
"Mr. Zhongli, we haven't paid you yet."
Zhongli smiled faintly, his words as light as a passing breeze.
"Mora is but a worldly concern. The bonds forged today transcend mere currency. Consider this a meeting between old friends."
Huh? Another secret tycoon!?
Paimon was stunned, though a closer look at Zhongli's refined yet understated attire made it somewhat believable.
Once Zhongli had departed, Aether approached one of the incense burners. A merchant named Changshun, noticing him, struck up a conversation.
"Ah, here to seek the blessings of the adepti?"
Aether nodded. Changshun continued,
"On this day, any wish you make will be granted by Rex Lapis and the adepti. I've already made mine—this spot is yours now."
After Paimon politely thanked him, Aether closed his eyes and whispered his wish to the incense burner.
"I hope to find my sister soon."
Rover's wish was simple as well.
"I hope to return to my own world soon."
As the incense burner glowed faintly, another merchant eagerly stepped forward to make his wish.
"Look! That's Ningguang of the Liyue Qixing—the Tianquan!"
A shout rippled through the crowd, stirring excitement as everyone anticipated the ceremony's commencement.
"I've heard most of Liyue's adepti take beastly forms. I wonder if any will show up."
"Pfft, as if! Those adepti live reclusively in the wild. No way they'd make an appearance."
Amid the chatter, Rover and Aether secured an excellent vantage point.
At last, we'll see the true face of the Geo Archon.