Chapter 8: Keqing and Ningguang's Proposal
At noon, Aiden and Zhongli arrived at Liuli Pavilion on time. Without any questioning, the waiter led them to a private room where Keqing and Ningguang were already waiting.
Seeing their arrival, both women stood up to greet them.
"Mr. Zhongli, Mr. Aiden, welcome," Ningguang said with a slight smile.
"Excuse us for intruding," Zhongli responded, his sharp eyes briefly pausing on Keqing.
As expected of Yuheng of the Liyue Qixing, her decisive and composed demeanor was exactly what he had anticipated.
"This is our first meeting. I look forward to working with the esteemed Tianquan and Yuheng in the future," Aiden said casually before tossing the unactivated Vision onto the table in front of Ningguang.
Ningguang picked up the Vision, inspecting it carefully before nodding. "It is indeed an unawakened Vision.
However, 100 million Mora is a considerable sum. How about we finalize the transaction through the Liyue Bank?"
Aiden had no objections. "Mora isn't an urgent matter for me, but does Lady Ningguang perhaps have a property of similar value?
I currently have nowhere to stay in Liyue, and if possible, I'd prefer to purchase a house instead."
Ningguang raised an eyebrow, glancing at Keqing. "Since I built Jade Chamber, there aren't many premium properties left on the ground. The remaining ones far exceed 100 million Mora in value.
However, 100 million Mora should be more than enough to purchase a high-quality house in Liyue.
Perhaps Keqing could help? Her family is involved in construction, after all."
Aiden turned to Keqing, who was scrutinizing him with a thoughtful expression. He met her gaze calmly, acting as though he hadn't seen her observing him yesterday.
But honestly, Keqing never loses when it comes to beauty.
Even though Ningguang's mature elegance was breathtaking, Keqing had a unique charm of her own.
Seeing Aiden's composed expression, Keqing frowned slightly before replying, "A property near my own residence recently went on sale. The owner suffered financial losses and is selling it.
The house is well-structured and fully furnished, priced at a little over 90 million Mora.
Additionally, since it's located near Yujing Terrace, safety and environment are top-notch."
'Oh? If I buy that house, will she be keeping an eye on me every day?' Aiden chuckled internally.
"Over 90 million? That sounds reasonable. However, I'd like to inspect the property first," he replied with a knowing look at Keqing.
If he hesitated now, wouldn't that make him seem guilty?
"Alright. I'll take you there after lunch," Keqing said confidently.
"In that case, I'll leave it to you, Keqing. I'll arrange the Mora transfer afterward," Ningguang added with a smirk.
Keqing understood Ningguang's intent and nodded.
Once everyone was seated, Ningguang clapped her hands, signaling the waiters to begin serving the meal.
A variety of exquisitely prepared dishes were placed before them.
Smiling warmly, Ningguang began explaining, "Liyue cuisine is divided into Li Cuisine and Yue Cuisine.
Li Cuisine specializes in mountain delicacies, while Yue Cuisine focuses on seafood.
Liuli Pavilion is Liyue's finest restaurant, known for serving the most delicious dishes.
If you ever have time, you should also try Xinyue Kiosk. They are famous for their unique flavors, including the legendary mooncakes."
Aiden took a bite of the Matsutake Meat Rolls, his eyes lighting up in delight. "This is amazing!
It's far better than any food I've tasted in other worlds!"
Hearing this, even Zhongli couldn't help but smile faintly.
Liyue's cuisine receiving such high praise from someone who had traveled across worlds—that was a proud moment for Liyue.
"As long as you enjoy it," Ningguang replied with a subtle but intrigued look.
"Other worlds?" she thought.
This revelation only deepened her curiosity about Aiden and the mysterious chat group.
Aiden took another bite of the Jueyun Chili Chicken, savoring the rich flavors. "By the way, no need to be so formal. Since we're all in the same group, we'll be seeing a lot of each other. Just call me Aiden."
"Alright then, Aiden. You can also just call me Ningguang," she said smoothly. "But speaking of which, how much do you and Zhongli know about this chat group?
Would you be open to exchanging some information?"
Aiden and Zhongli exchanged glances before Zhongli responded, "Regarding the chat group itself, it shares some similarities with Sumeru's Akasha System.
Even the ability to directly download knowledge resembles Sumeru's canned knowledge system.
However, what sets it apart is its purification power—something even the Seven Archons cannot control.
I've tested it myself, and its potential is immense.
For Liyue, this is undeniably a blessing."
Before Ningguang could speak, Keqing interjected, "But what is the true purpose of this power?
If it's something even the Archons covet, why was it handed over to us so easily?
How can we be sure there isn't an ulterior motive?"
'Well, there is an ulterior motive—I just want your body.'
Aiden nearly laughed at his own joke but kept a straight face.
Instead, he said, "I heard that Rex Lapis, Liyue's Geo Archon, is the oldest and wisest among the Seven. Why not consult him for guidance?"
Ningguang let out a sigh, rubbing her temples. "Keqing and I discussed this last night and tried to contact the Lord of Geo, but we received no response.
This morning, we sought the Adepti for advice.
Surprisingly, they told us to make our own judgment.
However, they did express admiration for the Basic Internal Arts, believing it could be a path more suitable for mortals."
Aiden sipped his tea. "Then this is both an opportunity and a challenge for you two, isn't it?"
"Indeed," Ningguang agreed. "But this decision is not easy. Even as members of the Qixing, we can't make it alone.
That being said, we've decided to gradually introduce the Internal Arts among a small, selected group.
If the results are promising, we will discuss expanding it to the Millelith.
Of course, unless the Geo Archon himself gives an official decree, there will likely be significant opposition among the Qixing and other governing bodies."
Aiden nodded in understanding.
Though change was inevitable, politics always made things complicated.
But that was Liyue—a land of contracts, where every decision carried weight.