If news of this got out, it would cause a massive uproar.
An activated Vision could be traded!
By now, many people knew someone had pulled a Vision from the jar shop.
Those who didn't understand Visions just thought the shop was amazing for stocking such treasures.
But those who did understand—like the scholars and martial artists—assumed it was a Masterless Vision shell that had resonated with the buyer, a lucky coincidence exploited by the merchant for publicity.
Both Ningguang and Keqing had thought the same initially.
In their worldview, an activated Vision was bound to the user's soul. It couldn't be destroyed, abandoned, or traded.
Very few people had actually witnessed Zhang pull the Vision. Most only knew he had caused a fire with it later.
"So, even an activated Vision remains tradeable in Felix's hands. That is a feat even the Archons might not be capable of."
Keqing was still reeling from the shock, but Ningguang was already moving on.
"His background is too mysterious. For now, we should shift our focus away from him. The priority is to implement the strategies in the book. What do you think?"
Ningguang looked at Keqing.
If they couldn't uncover Felix's secrets, they would stop trying for now.
The knowledge she had gained from the jars was a tangible advantage. She needed to use it immediately.
"Agreed completely."
Keqing nodded without hesitation.
She was dying to know who Felix really was, but defeating the Northland Bank and stabilizing Liyue's economy took precedence.
After all, Ningguang wasn't the only one who could buy jars.
If the Fatui or the Northland Bank pulled a copy of that book... it would be a disaster. A devastating blow to Liyue's financial sovereignty.
Liyue came first. Felix could wait.
"Then it's settled."
Ningguang turned to leave, then stopped. She looked back at Zhang, who was still cowering in the chair.
"As for you, Zhang. Someone will come to discuss your punishment later. Although it was an accident, you destroyed property. You must pay for the damages. After that, a specialist will be assigned to teach you how to control your Vision. All you need to do is listen and obey."
With that, Ningguang, Keqing, and Baishi swept out of the room.
Watching them leave, Zhang's face went pale. "But... but I don't have any money!"
He was a gambler. He had sold his house to feed his addiction.
He didn't have a single Mora to his name. How could he pay for the stall?
"If you don't have Mora, you'll work it off for Liyue."
The Millelith officer looked at him impassively. "A Vision holder is a valuable asset. As Lady Ningguang said, you'll be trained. You can pay your debt from your future wages. We'll advance the compensation for you."
Zhang: "..."
He nodded like a chicken pecking rice. "No problem! As long as you let me out, I'll do anything! I'll listen to whatever you say! Just don't keep me in here!"
"Wait here."
...
...
"Releasing the policies today is too rushed. I've decided to announce them tomorrow. We'll use today to prepare."
Back in the Jade Chamber, Ningguang paced as she spoke to Keqing. "If we rush it, we might make mistakes."
"But if we wait, we risk being beaten to the punch."
Keqing frowned. "News of the jar shop is spreading fast. The Northland Bank hasn't reacted yet, so we need to move now."
"At the very least, we should leak the news of upcoming reforms, then work overnight to finalize the details. Tomorrow, we launch the full layout. That way, we can handle any surprises."
She knew exactly what Ningguang was planning.
Having read the book, Keqing understood the economic warfare they were about to wage. If they delayed even a day, the Fatui might get wind of it.
"You make a valid point."
Ningguang paused, then nodded decisively. "Then we won't delay. Let's finalize the key points now."
She turned to Baishi. "Call Baiwen and Baixiao. We have a long night ahead of us. I'm going to create a blizzard in the financial world. Have the staff prepare notices for immediate posting."
"Yes, Lady Ningguang!"
Baishi ran to fetch her sisters.
Soon, the three secretaries, along with Ningguang and Keqing, were gathered around a large table.
Five of the sharpest minds in Liyue (aided by otherworldly knowledge) began to write furiously. Strategy after strategy was drafted, refined, and finalized.
As Baiwen and the others read the plans Ningguang was drafting, they inhaled sharply.
They realized that Liyue was about to experience a massive earthquake.