Chapter 302

The stronger the civilization develops, the stronger Takumi will be. This matter is indisputable.

Since the Winter Kingdom has begun to imitate and even attempt to create new technologies, isn't this a good thing? For Takumi, this is definitely beneficial. This is essentially helping him become stronger, right? Perhaps, after some time, Takumi may even activate another Herrscher core.

Bai also wished that the entirety of Teyvat would begin technological development. Only in this way could he continue growing stronger. This Honkai energy he possessed did not destroy civilization; instead, it fueled its progress. Maybe, in the future, he could even visit the Honkai Will and have a chat.

Takumi spent a long time discussing various matters with Ningguang and the others, including arrangements for the Rite of Descension and the plans for future development. Following the original plot was out of the question—it would be too much trouble. Besides, Ei was no longer someone who could be easily deceived.

Could she be sent on random missions across the region? Unlikely. Even if she were offered money to do so, she probably wouldn't be interested. Perhaps, catching a few slimes would be a better option.

Thus, Ningguang formulated a new plan. The Rite of Descension would begin, the Emperor would be "assassinated," and the blame would be placed squarely on the Fatui. This would force Childe to act, triggering a large-scale purge of Fatui operatives within Liyue. This event would also force Childe to release Osial.

A series of strategies had already been prepared by Ningguang, who had even discussed them with Zhongli. Although Zhongli was somewhat speechless at the approach, he ultimately agreed. Sorry, Childe, but you would have to bear the burden this time. As for the Northland Bank, others would take care of it. Regardless, Childe would undoubtedly find himself unwelcome in Liyue.

As for what would come next, they would handle it when the time came.

Takumi and Ningguang confirmed that everything was ready. With that settled, he returned to his residence, awaiting the start of the Rite of Descension. There were still two days left. Until then, he could enjoy his time in Liyue Harbor.

Takumi and Keqing left the Jade Chamber and returned home. At this time, the house was empty—everyone else was out. Keqing prepared to leave as well.

"I'm heading home first," she said.

Just as she was about to leave, Takumi stopped her.

"Wait. This is for you. You should familiarize yourself with it over the next couple of days."

With that, Takumi conjured a copy of Raiden Shogun's Gnosis and tossed it to Keqing. Seeing the object in her hands, Keqing's eyes widened in confusion.

"A Gnosis? Why are you giving this to me?"

"Of course, it's to make you the Thunder God of Liyue!" Takumi grinned. "The next thing we're facing is a Demon God. Your current strength won't be enough. So, use this."

Keqing was momentarily stunned but quickly composed herself. After some thought, she did not refuse and instead took the Gnosis.

"Alright. I'll use it for now, then return it to you later."

With that, Keqing glanced at Takumi one last time before leaving.

As she held the Gnosis, Keqing instinctively understood how to use it. It could be integrated directly into her body. She found this rather puzzling—was it really this simple?

But upon further reflection, it made sense. The Gnosis Takumi had given her was a replica. Perhaps because it was fake, she could use it without issue. If it had been a real one, it wouldn't have been so easy. After all, she wasn't a god. A genuine Gnosis wouldn't recognize her.

Keqing was correct. Zhongli and other Archons, if separated from their Gnoses, could not have them used by just anyone. Sky Island had a real-name authentication system of sorts for such divine artifacts. The fake one Takumi created had no such restriction.

After Keqing left, Takumi returned inside, where Noelle was busy cleaning. Seeing Takumi return, she greeted him warmly.

"Welcome back, Takumi! The house has been cleaned."

"Thanks for your hard work." Takumi nodded. "Come on, let's find Klee and grab something to eat. I'm not cooking today."

Noelle nodded. "Alright!"

She put down her cleaning supplies, and the two headed outside. Takumi pulled out his phone and sent a message to Klee and the others, inviting them to Wanmintang for dinner. Then, he and Noelle made their way there.

Liyue Harbor was livelier than ever. The streets were bustling with crowds, and every shop was packed. The mobile phone shop was particularly crowded, with foreigners eagerly examining the latest devices. The same went for stores selling small appliances. Some visitors even asked about purchasing cars. Clearly, Liyue's technological advancements were attracting a lot of interest.

However, if anyone wanted to buy a car in Liyue, they needed a driver's license. That immediately disqualified many foreign visitors. As for small appliances, the shop clerks explained that they required electricity, which many regions outside of Liyue lacked. Thus, it was not recommended to buy them.

This left many foreign visitors feeling frustrated, as if they were being looked down upon—but they had no argument against the logic. Without electricity, these devices were useless.

Takumi and Noelle watched these discussions unfold and sighed. Liyue was truly booming now.

When they arrived at Wanmintang, it was just as lively inside. The restaurant was already full. A staff member recognized Takumi and immediately greeted him.

"Mr. Takumi, please proceed to the largest private room upstairs. Chef Xiangling has already made arrangements, and your friends are waiting inside."

Takumi nodded. "Thanks."

With that, he and Noelle headed upstairs. The largest private room in Wanmintang was usually reserved for Ningguang and other high-profile figures. However, today, Xiangling had arranged it for Takumi.

Upon entering, he found Yae Miko and Kamisato Ayaka already seated, enjoying their tea.