He changed Tiwat

She already knew Mondstadt's leadership's attitude towards the proposal, but she didn't expect Eze to say something so rude... What does "venture capital" even mean? Isn't this clearly saying, "I really don't trust you"?

The meeting was scheduled to take place at a dinner table in the Knights' banquet hall. Firstly, Han Fulai's visit to Mondstadt was informal, and he clearly didn't want to disclose those issues to the media; it was best to discuss things privately over a meal. Secondly, it was to maintain a friendly atmosphere and prevent the meeting from escalating into a confrontational scene typical of formal diplomatic visits…

Before Han Fulai and Yura arrived, Jean made a special trip to the banquet hall to make arrangements with everyone present, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a friendly and harmonious meeting atmosphere. This was not only to prevent anyone from causing trouble for Yura, a descendant of the Lawrence family, but also to avoid any disputes that might affect the relationship between Mondstadt and Liyue.

But clearly, her efforts failed.

In her mind, even if the deal fell through, they should at least maintain a friendly relationship. But Eze's words made things awkward for everyone.

As the acting Grand Master of the Knights of Favonius, her current stance can only be that of Mondstadt, nothing else.

So she also shifted her gaze—towards Kaya.

Kaiya received a signal from Jean and immediately used his signature move, "distracting."

With a "thud," Kaiya spilled the wine from his glass... Fortunately, the red wine only spilled on himself and did not affect Yura next to him.

"Oh, I'm sorry..." Kaiya quickly stood up. "I think I need to change my clothes... I'm so sorry."

—A year ago, when "Doctor" visited Mondstadt and pressed Simon at the table of "Dawn Winery", Kaia also used the same method of interrupting to buy time.

Qin also took this opportunity to make a suggestion: "In that case, I propose a ten-minute break to give Captain Kaiya some time, and everyone can also take a short rest, what do you think?"

Since it was break time, everyone present formed small groups of two or three to chat about light topics. Han Fulai took this opportunity to find a chance to talk to Qin alone.

According to their previous agreement, he would help the Knights of Fatui deal with the Fatui, and in return, Jean would help him secure cooperation between the two nations; this should have been an unspoken understanding. But what about the business representatives from Mondstadt?

He needed to ascertain Qin's true attitude towards the matter.

Qin took this opportunity to tell him the truth.

Actually, there shouldn't have been such a serious disagreement about switching to Liyue coins, and the reason is quite simple—because "Mora" is also a "Liyue coin" created by the Geo Archon of Liyue.

The seven kingdoms of Teyvat have been using Mora from Liyue for almost three thousand years. If the Geo Archon were to announce at the "Ceremony of Summoning the Immortals" that "starting this year, all Mora in the entire continent will be converted into paper money," it is unlikely that anyone would dare to say "no."

Aside from the Mora's inherent value in alchemy and metallurgy, Liyue Coins as currency are essentially no different from Mora. Besides, there's no rule saying that using Liyue Coins means you can't use Mora... In international trade, it's not uncommon for two currencies to be used concurrently. There are even tribes in the Sumeru Desert that accept gold and silver jewelry as currency.

If the Geo Archon were to issue Liyue Coins, given the good reputation of this "God of Contracts" over the past three thousand years, no one would suspect any "conspiracy" behind it—or rather, as humans, doubting the wisdom and compassion of a god is a great act of disrespect.

However, the Geo Archon has now "passed away," and the main entity issuing Liyue coins is the Liyue National Bank, the Liyue Seven Stars, not that Geo Archon.

Although it was this Deputy Minister Han who claimed at the Liyue press conference that "Liyue currency was a national policy established by the Geo Archon before his death," no one really knows the truth—they, the Mondstadt citizens, aren't just sitting on the tables and chairs in the Geo Temple; they weren't actually there...

Furthermore, after the Emperor's death, Liyue was embroiled in two controversies: the "Golden House production halt" and the "counterfeit currency" scandal. Even though the Liyue government forcefully suppressed both incidents, seeds of unease were still sown in the hearts of many.

Moreover, this is Mondstadt, a nation founded 2,600 years ago in rebellion against the "Lone King of the Tower," whose people dared to overthrow even the rule of the Daedric Kings. Apart from Barbatos, the Anemo Archangel who twice led them in their fight for freedom, no one in the old Mondstadt's eagle banner submits to them—don't even mention that you, Han Fulai, are a "successor to the Emperor," even if the Rock King himself came to Mondstadt to discuss this matter, he would have to ask the people of Mondstadt for their consent.

More importantly... in history, the Geo Archon of the neighboring country of Liyue once signed a "treasonous treaty" with the Lawrence family, which was the "Hidden Pact" that became the biggest inducement to overthrow the Lawrence family.

In other words, historically, Liyue wanted to invade Mondstadt, but was fortunately stopped by the wise and powerful Barbatos and Vanessa.

This meant that when Han Fulai talked about the Liyue Coin project, many people present immediately thought, "Could this be another 'secret pact hidden from view'?"

In this uncertain situation, remaining on the sidelines is definitely the right choice.

Within the Knights, this traditional policy of maintaining a wait-and-see attitude was called "glorious freedom," which, to put it bluntly, was political "isolationism."

Thanks to Barbatos's "Millennium Symphony," Mondstadt has always been able to be self-sufficient. In any case, if Mondstadt doesn't pursue any new trends or enjoyment, it can still have enough to eat even if it closes itself off from the world.

—Throughout its 2,600-year history, Mondstadt has never seen knights embarking on expeditions, never knights seeking aid. Even five hundred years ago, when the "Black Calamity" ravaged the land, the dragon Durin attacked, and the main force of the Knights of Favonius was wiped out, the people of Mondstadt never once considered asking neighboring countries for help, even if the immortals of Liyue truly possessed the ability to rescue them…

—In the aftermath of the calamity, Queen Winterborn organized the Fools, and the nations of Teyvat successively signed a nominal "Protection Agreement" with Winterborn to jointly fight against the Abyss. Only Mondstadt insisted on "glorious freedom." It wasn't until after the "Blackfire Incident" a year ago that Mondstadt was forced to form a symbolic alliance with Winterborn for the sake of the Grand Master's expedition plan.

—Therefore, Mondstadt people have always been proud of this "glorious freedom," and they can indeed proudly claim that "Mondstadt has never made peace through marriage, paid reparations, ceded territory, or paid tribute. Knights guard the borders, and captains die for the country."

Using Liyue Coins and joining the "Liyue District" is tantamount to Mondstadt's complete political and economic alignment with Liyue... This is clearly contrary to the tradition of "glorious freedom".

If you were to ask what she herself thinks—she would certainly be willing to trust Han Fulai and fully cooperate with Liyue, joining the "Teyvat Community of Fate".

This is not only because Han Fulai has gained the approval of the Wind God, but also because Jean has deeply realized that times have changed. The international situation on the continent of Teyvat has reached a point where "a new storm has arrived," so how can Mondstadt remain stagnant and complacent?

Although she is young, her vision is much longer-term than that of many older, respected figures.

Gunhilds is a traditional knightly family, but even within this traditional knightly family, there are innovators like Frederica.

Qin grew up with her mother and, through constant exposure, inherited her mother's will. Unlike those old people who have been in positions of power for a long time and are full of stagnation, she is not afraid of change.

But precisely because she is so young, her influence still cannot surpass that of the traditional one.

—Yes, Han Fulai understood what the zither meant.

To put it simply, it means "I support you in spirit".

Emotional support is certainly worthless... but it was enough for him.

At least Qin's attitude hasn't changed; she certainly won't go against their previous understanding to stand on the opposite side.

If he can convince his opponents at this meeting, Mond will become the first member of the "Teyvat Community of Destiny".

But this is difficult.

For example, if Eze represents the Legionnaire family, then he must be acting on the orders of the absent Diluc. Diluc may have his own plans, but Han Fulai doesn't know what they are, and he has no way to change Diluc's mind from dozens of miles away.

Other business representatives also had their own agendas. Trying to persuade them in a short time was like debating with someone online; it was pointless except for blowing up the group chat... Unless, of course, you could physically beat them up through the internet and persuade them by means of physical means.

But he couldn't actually beat up Eze and the others...

So, what should he do?

The brief recess ended quickly, and when Kaiya returned, he had changed out of his knight's uniform, which was stained with wine, and was wearing a rather gorgeous and expensive-looking suit—which meant he probably wouldn't spill the wine a second time.

However, sacrificing an outfit was clearly worthwhile. The atmosphere in the room had eased considerably, and when Eze, Mr. Ludwig, and the others sat back down at the table, they had relaxed smiles on their faces.

Clearly, they believed that Deputy Minister Han knew when to stop and wouldn't dwell on the Liyue currency issue any longer.

But they soon learned how the smiles disappeared from their faces.

Because Han Fulai did not take his seat when the meeting resumed, but instead took out the divine artifact bestowed upon him by the Wind God, "Wings of Starlight Splendor".

Although its shape is rather peculiar, this thing is a genuine "wing of the wind," with wings that are over two meters long when spread out.

A golden Windwing was placed on the long table, attracting everyone's attention.

No one can laugh anymore.

Everyone present knew beforehand that he possessed the Wind God's artifact, but no one thought he would actually use the Wind God's name to force through this issue—what difference is there between that and bullying others?

Many people looked quite unwell.

Sister Victoria, the representative of the West Wind Church, clasped her hands together, silently recited a prayer, and then asked with a serious expression, "Deputy Minister Han, what is the meaning of this?"

Before Han Fulai arrived, he presided over the trial of Cardinal Calvin, who had blasphemed the god of wind, in the name of the god of wind. This was divine punishment caused by Cardinal Calvin's own offense against the god, and Sister Victoria had no objection.

However, it is well known that Lord Barbatos has never interfered in the internal affairs of the Knights. The autonomy granted to the people of Mondstadt by the Wind God has always been a source of great pride for this free city-state.

If Han Fulai really intends to use such a near-coercive method to pass the proposal, in keeping with Mondstadt's spirit of freedom, Victoria will be the first to protest, even if it means protesting to the gods.

Han Fulai bowed slightly to the Wind God artifact before him before replying, "Please don't misunderstand. I'm only doing this to show that every word I'm about to say is under the witness of Lord Barbatos. I think you all know that Lord Barbatos has always protected Mondstadt and would never allow anyone to harm Mondstadt in his name, would you?"

The testimony of the gods...

Upon hearing this, many people—including Kaiya—quietly straightened their posture, while some began to sweat slightly on their backs, stealing glances at the divine artifact, fearing that some of their past actions might incur divine punishment…

The "Starry Wings" representing the wind god remained motionless, making no move, as if silently listening.

Well, Han Fulai didn't use "Song of the Wind" to "call" Wendy again this time. The so-called "listening in" Anemo is currently taking a nap on the big oak tree in the wind-swept land...

Of course, only Han Fulai himself knew about this.

Whether the Wind God is listening or not is not important; what is important is that "the Wind God may be listening."

At the press conference in Liyue, Han Fulai had used the credibility of the Geo Archon to endorse Liyue currency. Now he is simply repeating the same trick, using the credibility of the Anemo Archon to endorse his words. This is the same principle behind the requirement in courts in many countries on Earth for witnesses to swear an oath with their hands on the Bible before testifying.

This means "there is absolutely no falsehood before the gods".

Simply place a wind god artifact on the table, and the weight of his words immediately changes. No matter how far-fetched his boasts may be, the people of the wind god will have to believe them.

Then, Han Fulai took out a Liyue Coin from his person.

He began, “Ladies and gentlemen, times have changed. The banknote you see is not just an ordinary currency. It is an opportunity of our time, and even more so… a guarantee of freedom.”

Chapter 380 Freedom Presupposes Equality [4k]

The words "Liyue Coins are the guarantee of freedom" evoked a mixture of shock and anger in many present, especially among the veteran knights of the knightly orders, who felt an urge to slam their fists on the table.

When has the freedom of Mondstadt ever been guaranteed by the paper money of Liyue?

Lord Barbatos, are you just going to let this man spout nonsense?

...Unfortunately, it seems Lord Barbatos really has no objections.

Thanks to the testimony of Barbatos, Han Fulai's words did not provoke a more intense reaction.

He still held up the Liyue coin, raising his voice slightly: "I know you all have doubts about what I just said, but what I said was absolutely true. Just like what Mr. Eze told me before, the Brewers Association is unwilling to do 'venture capital'—it may sound harsh, but it was the honest truth."

"Even if you don't want to believe it now, in the future, perhaps within a year or even half a year, you will find that Liyue Coins will become a 'guarantee of freedom'."

He was implying that if Mondstadt didn't join the "Liyuan District," its future would likely be dire...

These words could easily be considered a "threat".

Sitting opposite him, Eze couldn't help but stand up, wanting to retort immediately, but Commander Qin stopped Eze first, then turned to say, "Deputy Minister Han, please explain what you just said."

Han Fulai nodded and continued, "Everyone, I say this because I have seen many things in the month I have been in Mondstadt—I have witnessed with my own eyes that the free city of Mondstadt is losing its freedom!"

Upon hearing this, even the troupe leader, Qin, looked surprised.

Why would he suddenly say something like that?

—And he said it in the presence of Barbatos, the god of liberty!

Many people were already showing indignation, seemingly unable to suppress the urge to interrupt his rant, while even more people turned their attention to the "Wings of Starlight" on the table... but the "god of liberty" who was "listening" remained completely still.

Han Fulai took in everyone's reactions.

This is exactly the reaction he needs.

Whether they're surprised or angry, it doesn't matter; what matters is that they take these words seriously.

He was afraid that once these people were determined to refuse, they would simply "not listen," and then nothing he said would be of any use.

And once they want to refute it, things become much easier—if you want to refute my point of view, you have to understand it first. I'm not afraid you'll disagree, I'm only afraid you won't listen. If you listen, think about it, and refute it, then the theory that "Liyue currency equals the guarantee of freedom" will officially exist.

A lie repeated a thousand times can become the truth, let alone what he said, which wasn't even a lie.

So what if he said Mondstadt has no freedom in front of the God of Liberty? He even said Liyue has no contracts in front of the God of Contracts...

Facing numerous unfriendly stares, Han Fulai continued calmly, "A couple of days ago, I heard about an interesting 'theft case'—someone went to the 'Wishing Well' in the shopping district in the middle of the night to steal Mora. This 'thief' was a young man living in Mondstadt, and he stole the Mora from the well to raise money for his seriously ill sister to buy healing potions from the Church of Favonius..."

Upon hearing this, Sister Victoria once again clasped her hands in a prayerful gesture—she already knew who Han Fulai was referring to. Sister Victoria was, of course, very familiar with the children Sister Grace had been caring for.

“We all know that stealing is wrong, and of course, it was wrong for that young man to steal the Mora from the Wishing Well... But did he want to be a thief? No, he didn't. He worked harder than anyone else, doing hard labor all over the city every day, but the money he earned couldn't cover his sister's medical expenses at all. He didn't want to actually steal or rob, so he had no choice but to sneak out at night to collect those unclaimed Mora…”

"He actually had a dream—if it weren't for supporting his parents and getting medical treatment for his sister, he originally planned to become an adventurer who traveled the world. But now, he has to bind himself to a job with no end in sight, working hard day and night, and even almost becoming a thief... I want to ask you all, does this young man have freedom?"

Freedom certainly includes the freedom to choose, but some people do not have the freedom to choose their own path in life.

Sister Victoria sighed softly: "I sympathize with this young man's plight, but Mr. Han, this is just an isolated case... Even the protection of the wind god cannot guarantee that every Mondstadt resident will be free from disease."

Han Fulai shook his head and said, “No, this is not an isolated case. Such things happen to everyone in Mondstadt, and to everyone around you. For example, Sister Victoria, I heard that there is a group of people in the church who wear the ‘Crown of Thorns.’ They have all committed certain sins, and joining the ‘Crown of Thorns’ to protect Mondstadt is their way of atonement…”

“Ah…” Upon hearing this, Yura, who was sitting next to him, immediately thought of her “drinking buddy” Rosalia, as well as Sister Giliana, whom she had met the day before.

Rosalia, who came from a bandit gang, has indeed robbed and killed people... and Gianna, a former member of a treasure-hunting group, also carries a painful past.

Han Fulai smiled slightly at Youla.

“Miss Yura and I met one of them the other day. She described her past to us like this: ‘It was an incredibly free… yet incredibly empty life. Making money, spending it all, then being forced to find ways to make more money, and then spending it all again… Everyone in the heist group said they were very happy, but no one could escape this vicious cycle.’”

"Later, this 'Crown of Thorns' met the man she wanted to spend her life with, and she decided to turn over a new leaf... However, her former accomplices refused to let her go, even threatening her family to force her to do things she shouldn't have..."

Sister Victoria, do you think this 'Crown of Thorns' lifestyle is free?

Sister Victoria remained silent—not only Rosalia and Gianna, but she herself also had a deeply buried past. Their unfortunate pasts were all different, yet they shared some commonalities: they did not want such a past, and if given a choice, they would never want to go back to it.

Becoming a "Crown of Thorns" isn't entirely their own choice. While many "Crown of Thorns" have become accustomed to and even embraced the work, most joined out of desperation—for example, Giliana seeking refuge and redemption, or Rosalia, an orphan with nowhere else to go but the church…

To put it more bluntly, their past determined that they had no choice from the very beginning, and many of them had no choice from birth.

Such a life certainly cannot be called "free".

At this moment, old man Ludwig spoke up: "Deputy Minister Han, although the examples you cited do exist, I believe that Mondstadt as a whole is still the freest city-state on the Teyvat continent. Perhaps some people in this country will suffer misfortune, but many more people enjoy Mondstadt's freedom and are deeply proud of it."

His words drew agreement from many people—even if there are a large number of isolated cases, it doesn't negate the overall positive, free, and prosperous state of Mondstadt.

Han Fulai smiled slightly and asked in return, "Has your son, Ma Wen, suffered some misfortune? Why can't he enjoy the freedom of love?"

"This..." Ludwig choked.