After hearing Zhongli's decision, some people wore expressions of horror, unable to accept the reality before them. Others fell into deep thought, trying to grasp the deeper meaning behind his words, while some grew emotionally agitated, shouting to express their devotion and dependence on the Geo Archon.
In an instant, the scene became utterly chaotic—the once solemn Rite of Descension completely disrupted.
However, Zhongli's expression remained calm and unwavering. He simply stood there, just watching everything unfold before him without uttering a single word.
Keqing, who had been maintaining order, froze.
To her, allowing Liyue to transition to human governance had always been the ideal.
Rex Lapis had brought boundless prosperity and glory to Liyue Harbor. His extraordinary leadership and revered prestige had long become legendary tales sung by the people. Whether in bustling streets or elegant halls, stories of his heroic deeds and wise decisions could be heard everywhere.
These chronicles glittered like brilliant stars across history, filling the hearts of all with reverence for the mighty god.
However, among those blessed by the Archon's protection, one person stood apart.
That was Keqing, one of the distinguished Liyue Qixing.
As someone among those closest to the divine, Keqing was expected to hold deep reverence for Rex Lapis—regardless reality proved otherwise.
On the contrary, she was among the ones who held the least of such sentiment.
Keqing had once said:
"Hmph. To be blunt… does Morax really know everything?"
"If he knows."
"Does he really?!"
"If he knows!"
The Liyue Qixing constantly monitored all the great and small matters occurring throughout Liyue Harbor.
Yet Rex Lapis descended to the mortal world only once per year.
Though thousands of years of history had proven that following the Emperor's guidance was wise, Keqing nevertheless firmly believed:
"Humans should possess the pride of humanity, and human thought deserves proper respect."
Because of this belief, she often publicly voiced viewpoints opposing the Archon and even personally acted upon these ideals.
Such bold and progressive actions had indeed earned her many achievements, but had also drawn fierce opposition from countless devout followers of Rex Lapis.
To Keqing, those criticisms were nothing more than excuses from the complacent; those content to rest comfortably under divine protection, unwilling to think proactively about humanity's future.
However, there must always be someone who stands at the forefront, leading the era and carving a new path.
Keqing had originally believed with certainty that Morax would lead Liyue forever, ensuring its continued prosperity.
Yet… never in her wildest dreams did she imagine that today, during the grand Rite of Descension, the revered Geo Archon Morax would personally declare that Liyue Harbor would be handed over to humanity for self-governance.
This announcement struck Keqing like a bolt of lightning, leaving her stunned.
Her eyes widened, disbelief filling her expression, as though everything before her was an illusion.
Nonetheless, the truth lay plainly before her: she had no choice but to accept it.
Although a Liyue governed by humans had always been her dream and lifelong pursuit, at this moment, Keqing's view of Morax shifted entirely.
She began to reevaluate the Archon, realizing he was perhaps far more profound than she had imagined.
For Morax to make such a decision, he must have given it deep thought. This alone proved his understanding of and trust in Liyue.
Looking up at the Geo Archon above, Keqing felt a surge of emotion:
"So… he is the one who truly understands Liyue…"
Many in Liyue Harbor had long regarded Morax as an absolute authority, believing only a god could lead Liyue forward.
Yet now, his choice to relinquish power meant he believed humanity was fully capable of governing their own home.
Thus, Keqing made up her mind.
She would prove through action that humans possessed the wisdom and courage to protect this land.
However… who exactly would Morax entrust Liyue Harbor to?
The question filled Keqing with curiosity and anticipation as countless possibilities raced through her mind.
Could it be… herself? After all, she had always been dutiful and wholly devoted to Liyue.
Or perhaps Ningguang—the brilliant and strategic Lady Tianquan?
Or maybe someone else entirely.
Just then, Keqing's gaze instinctively shifted toward Luya among the crowd.
Even in a sea of people, she could effortlessly pick out his figure.
"Could it be…"
"You?!"
...
As the crowd grew restless over Zhongli's announcement that Liyue would be governed by humans, Ningguang—clutching Zhongli's scroll—also shifted her gaze toward Luya.
She fully understood the meaning hidden within the scroll.
When she unrolled it, aside from densely written text, there was also a mysterious contract.
This contract signified the formal transfer of Liyue's governing authority to Luya.
If he chose to sign it, he would shoulder the responsibility of becoming Liyue's leader.
However, power always came with responsibility.
Luya would be required to safeguard Liyue, govern it well, and strive to ensure its prosperity.
Then, Ningguang carefully held the contract and scroll in her hands, her eyes shimmering.
She raised her voice and declared:
"This is a contract signed between the Geo Archon Morax and the owner of the Duel Monsters Specialty Shop!"
"And that shopkeeper… is Luya!"
The moment her words fell, the entire terrace erupted!
Countless gazes shot toward Luya like spotlights, every face filled with disbelief—as though witnessing the impossible.
The crowd burst into commotion as voices rose:
"What!?"
"It's him?!"
"This is way too wild!!"
"Should we just rename Liyue to 'Yu-Gi-Oh!' now?!"
...
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