Lu Lin organized his thoughts and spoke unhurriedly:
"Compared to Mondstadt's Anemo Archon, who prefers to step back and let things run themselves, Rex Lapis has always personally guided Liyue's development. One could say he has been remarkably diligent.
"But that creates a problem. Liyue's prosperity was built by the Archon. What happens if one day he no longer guides Liyue?"
He paused slightly.
"Apologies. That thought may sound disrespectful."
"No," Keqing replied immediately, her pink eyes bright. "That is exactly what Liyue's people should be thinking about."
Her expression grew serious.
"Liyue relies too heavily on the Archon's direction. But if one day he is gone—can we govern ourselves? That's something I constantly reflect on."
She smiled faintly, a little bitterly.
"I've discussed this with many people. Most say I'm worrying unnecessarily. 'How could Rex Lapis ever be gone?' they ask. You're the first person who shares my perspective."
Keqing was action-oriented and forward-thinking. She had long sensed the hidden vulnerability beneath Liyue's prosperity.
Liyue Harbor's current brilliance was like a magnificent sandcastle on the shore. A single tide could wash it away—and humanity did not control the tide.
At last year's Rite of Descension, she had asked Rex Lapis directly:
"You have protected Liyue for a thousand years. But will the next thousand years—or ten thousand—be the same?"
He had not answered directly. Only smiled.
"Have you considered," Lu Lin continued gently, "if the Archon truly steps back, how Liyue should operate and develop?"
He wasn't challenging her—he was guiding her thinking.
After all, he knew Rex Lapis was already preparing for retirement. Liyue's time to stand alone was approaching.
"I have thought about it…" Keqing admitted.
Finding someone who truly understood her ideals was rare. The morning's embarrassment was completely forgotten now as she engaged earnestly in discussion.
Lu Lin had advantages: knowledge of future events, broader perspective beyond a single nation.
Concepts obvious to him felt revelatory to Keqing.
From national governance to policy consequences, he spoke fluently.
In another world, he had been an accomplished keyboard debater—sharp with words.
Xiangling, meanwhile, had little interest in political theory. Her mind focused on ingredients, recipes—and now, Lu Lin.
But that didn't stop her admiration.
To her, the Qixing were extraordinary figures. Seeing Keqing impressed by Lu Lin made him seem even more amazing.
Thus, two conversed while one listened, and by dusk they returned to Liyue Harbor.
"Mr. Lu, you said Liyue stands at a once-in-a-millennium turning point. Why?"
"Just a guess," he replied. "When you asked your question at last year's Rite, Rex Lapis didn't answer directly, correct?"
"Correct."
"Perhaps that was his acknowledgment. Though your question may seem rebellious, perhaps he doesn't see it that way.
"Maybe he knows he cannot guard Liyue forever. It is a nation of humans, and humans must eventually govern it.
"Your question showed that Liyue's people are beginning to think independently. That's progress. But whether humanity can truly govern well—that requires practice."
"Would the Archon… think like that?" Keqing murmured, uncertain.
"Regardless, you should prepare. Be ready for possible challenges."
He had already given her many hints—though she didn't yet grasp their weight.
After a moment, she straightened.
"Our discussion has been enlightening. I intended to treat you to a meal, but I must report to Ningguang regarding the monster-clearing. Another time."
"No rush. Good meals are worth waiting for. Your dedication is admirable. We'll gather when you're free."
After polite farewells, Keqing departed.
Back with Xiangling
"Was it boring, listening to us talk politics all day?" Lu Lin asked, cupping Xiangling's face playfully.
"Not at all! You're amazing, Lu Lin ge. Even someone like Keqing respects you. I'm proud."
"Really? I preferred how you praised me last night."
Xiangling flushed.
"W-well… not at home. Somewhere quieter. My voice is kind of…"
Even bold as she was, she reddened at the memory.
Lu Lin grinned silently.
"Maybe I'll try to keep it down next time?" she whispered.
"No need. Say what you want. I'll take you somewhere perfect."
He led her to a quiet corner and activated the mark.
They entered the Serenitea Pot.
"Wow! It's beautiful! Where are we?"
"My Serenitea Pot."
"Is it made by Master?"
Though her master was an adeptus skilled in crafting such realms, Lu Lin shook his head.
"Same name, but different functions."
He showed her around, explaining features—and completed her residency and access mark.
System Reward
[Ding! Host successfully invited four members to reside. Reward: 2,000,000 Mora, 1,000 points, 1,000 EXP, random host trait: Skillful Hands.]
[Skillful Hands]: Enhances aptitude in various life skills; greatly improves manual technique.
Lu Lin's eyes lit up.
Combined with [Insightful Mind], researching Guizhong's mechanical arts would yield incredible results.
Not just machinery—cooking, farming, forging… every practical skill would improve.
As for manual technique…
Let's just say Ganyu and the others would benefit.
As expected, a new mission followed:
[Mission: Increase resident members to eight (4/8)]
Reward: 2,000,000 Mora, 1,000 points, 1,000 EXP, random host trait.
Lu Lin smiled.
The road ahead was long.
But very promising.
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