"If I didn't know you were the president, I would have thought you were just a kept little white face by Tianquan Star," Hu Tao said, her tone playful but slightly teasing.
However, before Smith could respond, a sudden flick of his knife hit her. Hu Tao winced in pain, shocked by his unexpected move.
"Okay," Smith said, clearly tired. "I haven't had a good rest for several days. I'm going to take a shower now. Master Hu, please, do as you please!"
He had been living a hectic few days. Sleeping on the streets without proper food or shelter was taking its toll. If he hadn't frequently eaten Zhongli's meals, Smith would probably have been the first person to starve to death after traveling to Teyvat.
"I really need a proper rest," Smith murmured to himself as he made his way to his temporary residence. Although the place was decent, it wasn't truly his. He couldn't help but think that someday he might be able to secure a more permanent residence here in Liyue.
The Dimension Guild was only getting started, and he had much work ahead of him. There was the development of the guild, and the even more pressing task of helping Zhongli build Liyue into something greater. Smith still had a long road ahead.
---
A visitor from another world had appeared in Liyue, and soon, the fact that he had been appointed as a Seven-Star Consultant by the Rock King spread throughout the land. Not only Liyue, but even senior officials from other countries had heard the name "Smith."
But despite the sudden attention, Smith lived his life as he always had. Thanks to the five million Mora sent by Ningguang, he had no worries about money for the time being. Occasionally, Hu Tao would drag him out for some fun, or Keqing would call him up for a conversation. Smith also took the time to explore the beauty of Liyue, which helped him understand the region better.
Even though Smith claimed he had a better understanding of Liyue, it was clear that the world of Teyvat was far more complex than anything he had ever encountered. What he had seen in the game was merely a fraction of reality. There was still much to learn.
One place he hadn't visited yet was Yujingtai. Though there were matters to discuss with Ningguang, Smith preferred to do so through the Dimension Guild rather than visit her personally. After all, Ningguang's efficiency was unparalleled.
Once they had all agreed on the establishment of Liyue Bank, Ningguang quickly got to work. She acquired several private banks on the brink of bankruptcy, and with them, Liyue Bank became a formidable state-owned institution, rivaling even the North Country Bank before it officially opened.
This was just the beginning, and Smith could already imagine how Ningguang's efforts would create a massive financial powerhouse in Liyue over time.
---
Meanwhile, Smith was busy with his own tasks. He and Keqing had ventured out near Guiliyuan, surveying the land. Keqing, her expression pensive, gazed at the abandoned area in the distance.
"Smith," she began, "do you think we can eventually develop Guiliyuan?"
Smith gave the matter some thought before responding. "It should be possible," he said confidently. "Even on Teyvat, the resentment of the demons is not something that can't be solved. In other worlds, there are surely methods to deal with it."
Keqing's eyes softened as she looked into the distance. "When I was a child, I passed by Guiliyuan and wondered why Liyue had left such a large piece of land undeveloped. Later, I read about its past, and the reason became clear. I've always wondered if there was a way to resolve the demon god's resentment here, and if we could turn this place into a thriving city, just as grand as Liyue Port."
Smith nodded. "If the demon god's resentment is resolved, this place could be even better than Liyue Port. Its terrain and environment are ideal for development. Besides, Liyue could certainly use the land. Liyue Port is far too expensive, and the city is running out of space for expansion."
He paused before continuing, "However, as of now, the demon god's resentment hasn't been resolved, which makes it difficult to move forward with developing this area."
Keqing's expression remained solemn as she listened. After a brief pause, Smith added, "Honestly, with Morax's abilities, it wouldn't be difficult to build an island out in the ocean. The land might not be great for farming, but it could certainly be used for residential areas."
Keqing considered this, nodding slowly. "That's true. If it were the Rock God's will, he could have done that. But he didn't, and I think he wanted to see what humans could accomplish on their own."
Smith agreed. "The Rock King Emperor, Morax, has always been about guiding humanity to grow stronger. Perhaps he believes that only through hardship can humans achieve true strength. He wants to see if we can succeed without relying on the gods."
Keqing's eyes gleamed with determination. "I see now. It's not just about power or control. Morax wants us to prove ourselves worthy, just as a child would show their parents that they've grown. We need to prove that his efforts to guide us are worth it."
Her words struck a chord with Smith. He could see the fire in her eyes. She wasn't after power, but rather the opportunity to prove that humanity could thrive on its own, independent of divine influence. It was the desire to show the Rock King Emperor that humanity could stand on its own two feet, and Smith couldn't help but admire her resolve.
Keqing seemed lost in thought, pondering what steps Liyue should take next. "Where else can Liyue expand? What should we do now?" she muttered to herself, contemplating the future.
Smith watched her silently, a small smile tugging at the corner of his lips. He had to admit, Keqing was truly captivating when she was lost in thought, her determination shining through. There was something about her that he couldn't quite resist, even if it was just her determination to make Liyue a better place.
Smith chuckled to himself. Well, I suppose I'm just a sucker for Keqing—those twin ponytails are irresistible.
As much as he admired her dedication, Smith knew that he had his own responsibilities. The guild needed to grow, and Liyue needed to evolve. But he couldn't help but feel a connection with Keqing, one that went beyond just their work together. It was something that made him even more committed to helping her, to supporting her dreams for Liyue's future.
"The Rock King Emperor sees far beyond us," Smith said thoughtfully, "but we humans must still find ways to solve the problems before us. Keqing and I may not have the power of immortals, but we still have the ability to shape Liyue's future."
Keqing, suddenly enlightened, sighed in understanding. "The Emperor is truly far-sighted! He wants us to grow and learn, just as he has."
Smith smirked. "I asked you to join the guild, but it has nothing to do with him. And honestly, I just covet your body."
"..." Keqing stared at him, blinking in disbelief. "What did you just say?"
Smith winked at her mischievously, knowing full well that his statement would leave her flustered. He enjoyed teasing her, but there was a sincerity beneath his words—a deep affection that he had no intention of hiding.
---
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