Chapter 10: Keqing's Ambition
After thinking for a moment, Aiden continued, "I'll upload general knowledge about economics to the chat group.
"But for advanced technologies from my world, I'll set a price in the group. If you need them, you can purchase them with points. Similarly, if any of you have something valuable to trade, you can upload it as well—though, of course, someone has to be willing to buy it.
"That said, I strongly advise you not to spend points recklessly in the early stages. For now, points are still incredibly valuable. They can be used to enhance your strength."
Hearing this, Ningguang narrowed her eyes slightly. "So, in the chat group, points function as a currency similar to Mora?
"It seems that, for us, points might hold even greater value than Mora.
"You provide knowledge, and we pay with points. That's a fair exchange."
Ningguang agreed to Aiden's proposal without hesitation.
Although Aiden had previously mentioned that everyone in the group was a friend, she knew better than to rely too heavily on favors. She preferred a clear transaction over owing debts.
Once their discussion concluded, Keqing turned to Aiden. "I've read about the governmental systems in your world. If Liyue were to move toward full human governance, how do you think we should proceed?"
Keqing was still Keqing. Even after everything she had learned, her desire for human rule had not wavered.
It wasn't about power or authority—she simply wanted to prove to Morax that his people had grown, that they were capable of standing on their own.
That he no longer had to watch over them like a parent.
Zhongli observed Keqing's determination and nodded in approval. Despite her initial shock, she had regained her composure remarkably quickly.
Aiden didn't hold back in his response. "A constitutional monarchy could be a good approach—but unlike in my world, the ruler in Liyue should hold real power, not just a symbolic title.
"This ruler wouldn't need to micromanage daily affairs. The Qixing and adepti could oversee the government, ensuring that greed and ambition don't lead to corruption.
"Liyue's laws also have loopholes that need to be addressed, and they'll take time to fix.
"And honestly, in Teyvat, it's impossible to exist without the gods.
"Look at Mondstadt. Barbatos has been absent for centuries, and the Fatui have taken full advantage of that."
Keqing fell silent.
She had always believed that humans could govern themselves, but she had overlooked the harsh realities of the world.
Without Rex Lapis, would Liyue truly be able to hold its own?
Would they end up as vulnerable as Mondstadt, constantly manipulated by external forces?
She let out a soft sigh. "I see now that I was too naïve before.
"The Emperor probably foresaw all of this. That's why he has continued to guide us for so long.
"We need to work harder—not just to govern ourselves, but to prove that we are worthy of his trust.
"One day, we will show him that he doesn't need to worry about Liyue anymore."
Ningguang gave Keqing a long look, then shifted her gaze to Zhongli and Aiden. "The road ahead is long. I hope you two will support us along the way."
Zhongli smiled slightly. Keqing and Ningguang had passed his test.
In truth, he had never doubted them. His real concern lay with the rest of the Qixing and the Eight Trades.
Keqing and Ningguang were meant to serve as examples. If they could be guided, others might follow.
And soon, another key figure would join the conversation—Ganyu. Her presence would help stabilize both Keqing and Ningguang as they navigated this transition.
However, Zhongli was also intrigued by Aiden's mention of the point system.
He, too, needed points. Not just to sustain himself, but to heal Azhdaha's lingering corruption. He had no idea how many points it would take, but he had to try.
The Abyss' corruption was seemingly endless, but Zhongli wanted to save his old friend if possible.
His gaze fell on Aiden. He held many things that could be of use to the outsider.
"As a citizen of Liyue, it is my duty to help build a better future for our nation," Zhongli said calmly, sipping his tea.
This time, he would not allow Liyue to disappoint him.
Of course, this was only under the condition that their actions genuinely benefited the nation.
Aiden chuckled. "Well, now that I've become Tianquan's advisor, the news will spread soon.
"And since I live right next to Yuheng, I suspect I'll become a target for certain people.
"Unfortunately, I'm not much of a fighter, so I hope you won't let me get into too much trouble."
Zhongli's lips twitched.
Not much of a fighter?
Aiden's strength might not yet be fully realized, but he certainly wasn't weak. Even now, he possessed power on par with a demon, and he was still growing stronger.
Keqing, however, took Aiden at his word.
She had noticed that he lacked a Vision, and in Liyue, it was difficult for someone without one to become truly formidable.
She immediately reassured him, "Don't worry, Aiden. We'll do our best to protect you."
Aiden sighed inwardly.
Keqing was truly a good person. A bit too easy to fool, though.
Ningguang, on the other hand, was a different story.
She was sharp. Calculating. A true strategist.
Unlike Keqing, she was an old fox—someone who could see through deception with ease.
"By the way," Ningguang spoke again, "it seems you two know another group member?"
"I wouldn't say that," Zhongli replied evenly. "He hasn't spoken much."
This, technically, was true.
With outsiders present, there was no way Xiao would willingly reveal himself.
"I see." Ningguang nodded thoughtfully.
Having asked all she needed, she shifted the conversation to a lighter tone.
The rest of the meal was spent discussing various topics. Ningguang spoke about interesting events in Liyue and the broader Teyvat continent, while Aiden occasionally shared stories from his own world.
As they talked, Aiden couldn't help but admire her.
She had built herself up from nothing, rising to become Tianquan.
Even now, she was extracting valuable information from him without making it feel like an interrogation.
Her success was no accident.
This woman was truly remarkable.