"Unfortunately, I cannot open any today. I started one day later than you," Keqing sighed, looking at Ningguang's radiant smile with a hint of envy.
She had only discovered the Jar Shop the day after Ningguang's first visit. Her cooldown timer was still active.
"Perhaps the Shopkeeper meant the reset is weekly based on the shop's calendar?" Baiwen suggested hesitantly. "Like, every Monday?"
"Impossible. It must be a personal cooldown," Keqing shook her head. "If it were a weekly calendar reset, someone who bought ten jars yesterday could buy ten more today. That would break the scarcity model. It has to be seven days from the individual's purchase."
Baiwen flushed. "Ah. You're right. I spoke without thinking."
"Since you're opening jars, I'll come along to watch," Keqing said. "I haven't seen the Shopkeeper in a few days anyway."
"Very well. Let's see if my luck holds up. Perhaps I can pull another Devil Fruit," Ningguang laughed, striding out of the Jade Chamber.
Her three secretaries—Baiwen, Baixiao, and Baishi—followed closely behind.
As the Tianquan and Yuheng descended into Liyue Harbor, their presence caused an immediate sensation.
"It's Lady Ningguang and Lady Keqing!"
"The Qixing are walking together again. Did something big happen?"
"And the three secretaries! This looks official."
"Are they going to inspect the new Domain at the Feiyun Guild?"
"No, look at their direction. They're heading for the Jar Shop!"
"Ah! Of course! It's been a week! Lady Ningguang is going to open jars again!"
"My Archons, time flies. Has it been a week already?"
"I need to see this! I'm skipping work!"
"Hey! Don't drag me into your delinquency! ...Wait for me!"
A massive crowd formed behind the Qixing, trailing them all the way to the shop. The excitement was palpable. Everyone remembered the impact of Ningguang's last purchase—the Financial Management book that led to the Liyue Bank reforms.
They wondered what miracles she would pull this time.
The Jar Shop.
"Lady Ningguang."
Wenqi and Doyle, the disguised Fatui guards, bowed respectfully as Ningguang approached.
"No need for formalities," Ningguang smiled, waving them off. She stepped inside.
"I hope she gets something good."
"Remember the Youth Retaining Pill? She looks radiant. She must have taken it."
"I hope she gets another book. The free rice from the bank has been a lifesaver."
The crowd outside chattered excitedly, praying for Ningguang's success because her success trickled down to them.
Inside, Felix lay on his recliner.
"Shopkeeper, long time no see," Ningguang greeted warmly. "You look leisurely as always. I'm here to open jars. It's been a week."
"A day apart feels like three autumns, Lady Ningguang," Felix quipped, standing up to welcome his favorite whale.
He did the math. Today was indeed the eighth day.
Ningguang meant big business. And big business meant filling his Exclusive Jar bar faster.
"Hello, Shopkeeper," Keqing greeted him. Her usual icy demeanor melted into a stunning smile in his presence.
"Hello, Miss Keqing," Felix nodded, then acknowledged the three secretaries.
"Here is one million Mora," Ningguang said, handing over a heavy pouch while scanning the shelves. "I noticed you only display about forty jars at a time. Have you considered expanding the shop?"
More jars meant more options, and Ningguang liked having options.
"No need to expand. The space is sufficient," Felix shrugged, taking the money. "Maybe I'll add a couple more shelves later."
"Understood."
Ningguang proceeded to select ten jars.
With a wave of Felix's hand, they floated down and lined up neatly before her.
Keqing and the secretaries leaned in, watching with keen interest.
Bang.
Ningguang smashed the first jar.
A heavy stone tablet fell out, hitting the floor with a dull thud.
Thump.
"A stone tablet?"
Ningguang looked surprised. It wasn't just a rock; the sound indicated density and weight.
Next to the tablet lay a stone stylus.
"Two items?" Baishi exclaimed. "It's a set?"
"Indeed," Felix nodded. It was rare to get a set in a single jar.
[Ten Commandments Tablet]: Carve your resolutions onto this tablet with the stone stylus. If you do not strictly abide by them, you will suffer punishment. You can write up to 10 rules, known as "Commandments." Violating any written commandment will result in a lightning strike. Specific effects to be tested by the user.
Felix raised an eyebrow.
This thing... is from Doraemon.
"Shopkeeper, what is this?" Ningguang asked, picking up the heavy slab.
"The [Ten Commandments Tablet]," Felix explained with a faint smile. "A tool for self-discipline. Write what you resolve to do on it. If you fail to keep your word, you get struck by lightning."
"Uh."
Ningguang blinked.
That sounds... extreme.
"It's effective for people with weak will," Felix added. "But for someone like you, Lady Ningguang, who already has iron discipline, it might be redundant."
"True," Ningguang agreed.
Neither she nor Keqing needed a lightning threat to keep their promises. They were workaholics by nature.
She set the tablet aside and moved to the second jar.
Bang.
The second jar shattered.
A pair of golden eyeballs hovered in the air.
As they appeared, a wave of majestic, terrifying pressure washed over the room.
Ningguang's pupils contracted.
Eyes?
And they feel... powerful.
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