He changed Tiwat

"The sound of blacksmithing may be noisy and harsh to the average person, but to those who appreciate this craft, it is a bell-like sound that can hold one's breath and focus. Hearing the sound of metal striking metal will unconsciously calm the mind, calm the breath, and concentrate the attention. It eliminates distractions and allows one to fully immerse oneself in the craft."

"So that's why Mr. Zhongli stopped to listen to the sound of forging?" Han Fulai asked.

“This sound reminds me of the past, which is why I was unconsciously drawn to it,” Zhongli replied.

"In the past... So, I've heard that the Emperor is actually quite skilled at forging weapons," Han Fulai said. In his memory, Zhongli was indeed a master weapon maker. Many famous weapons in the game, such as the "Rainbow Piercing Spear," the "Sword Without Craftsmanship," the "Green Rock," and the "Harmony Kite," were all made by Zhongli in the past.

"It's less about skill and more about the circumstances. In times of war, weapons are essential and highly contested items," Zhongli said. "Liyue's ley lines are incredibly rich, producing all sorts of rare and precious minerals. It's only natural that masterpieces would emerge from this abundance. However, I've always believed that skillful craftsmanship is superior to rare stones. True masters are never confined to rare minerals."

"Does Mr. Zhongli mean that master craftsmen are not bound by materials?" Han Fulai thought about it carefully and found that the weapons made by Zhongli seemed to be made of all kinds of materials. It was probably because in times of war, there was no way to choose materials, so they used whatever was available.

“Exactly.” Zhongli sighed, “It’s a pity that such skilled craftsmen are becoming increasingly rare in Liyue.”

"Oh? Old Zhang is skilled and respected, so he should be considered a master craftsman of Liyue, right?"

Zhong Li shook his head.

"The current owner of Hanfeng Ironware has inherited his father's craftsmanship. No matter who comes, as long as they have the corresponding raw materials, he will do his best to help. Moreover, he never charges for repairing ironware for the miners and laborers in the vicinity. He only asks his customers to help him keep an eye out for rare ores. These are the things I admire about him."

“I once talked to him about the art of forging. He said he had a dream to forge a divine weapon and restore the reputation of this century-old shop. But his idea was to find a rare and high-quality mine and completely defeat his competitors in terms of raw materials. In fact, true skill lies in simplicity. Materials are not a necessary condition for forging a divine weapon. Only if he can understand this principle can he become a master craftsman.”

"In Mr. Zhongli's opinion, who are the master craftsmen of Liyue?" Han Fulai asked with great interest.

“You’ve been in Liyue for so long, have you ever heard of the Kun family and the Yun family? The Kun family is a long-established blacksmithing family, and there are still descendants who carry on the family’s craft. The Yun family, on the other hand, is not limited to this industry; they have branched out and spread to various trades and regions. The descendants of the Yun family follow the family motto of ‘striving for excellence’ and have already made a name for themselves in many other industries,” Zhongli replied.

Han Fulai stroked his chin. "So, it seems that none of the Yun family members I know are actually engaged in blacksmithing. For example, Mr. Yun Jinyun..."

Zhongli nodded. "Mr. Yun Jin, the famous opera singer from Liyue, is indeed a descendant of the Yun family. Her ancestors switched to other professions early, and her father's lineage specialized in opera. Over time, people forgot about the Yun family's past and could no longer associate her family with the forging industry."

"Family evolution is an important part of Liyue's history. If you have some free time, you might as well learn more about the human stories of Liyue."

"I will keep in mind Mr. Zhongli's teachings."

The two walked a little further, passed through the streets of Chihu Rock, and arrived at Feiyun Slope.

“When it comes to understanding Liyue culture, Liyue Opera is naturally indispensable. Since we just mentioned Mr. Yun, why don’t we go to Heyu Teahouse to listen to Mr. Yun’s opera?” Zhongli seemed to be in high spirits, and Han Fulai naturally agreed.

“Recently, the Rebirth Hall has been relatively quiet, with nothing for me to worry about. Sometimes the head of the hall goes out to visit friends, so I also go out for a walk. As usual, I go to Heyu Teahouse, order a pot of tea, listen to a story, and wait for Mr. Yun to take the stage. On festive occasions, the storyteller will prepare new selections to match, and Mr. Yun will also prepare new plays,” Zhongli said.

"Haha, since it coincides with the Lantern Festival, the storyteller will probably have many exciting stories to tell." Han Fulai recalled that he had also appeared in Tian Tiezui's stories before, but he wondered how Liu Su, the tea master of Heyu Tea House, would arrange them.

Zhongli laughed and said, "Actually, most of them are adaptations of legends or new versions of unofficial histories. Although the facts are hard to verify, they are lively enough and are indeed the first choice for festivals."

The two arrived at the entrance of Heyu Teahouse, only to hear the owner, Master Fan, apologizing to the guests at the door: "Ladies and gentlemen, it is truly unfortunate that Mr. Yun has gone to visit a friend at Qingce Manor today and cannot perform. If you wish to hear Mr. Yun's performance, please do so another day..."

It seems I won't be able to enjoy this sight today. Han Fulai shook his head slightly and looked at Zhong Li, only to find that Zhong Li was relaxed and didn't seem to care at all.

"Young friend Han, now that we've come this far, I actually have another place to go."

After a moment's thought, Han Fulai understood what he meant. "Is Mr. Zhongli referring to 'Wanwen Collection House'?"

“Exactly.” Zhongli smiled. “Reading is a good way to understand the culture and history of Liyue. Although the content of books may change with the times, books are a mirror of people. Reading is a superior pastime and always has some benefits.”

“This is exactly what they mean by ‘reading is always beneficial.’” Han Fulai returned the smile with the same sentiment.

The two turned away from the teahouse and arrived at "Wanwenji House".

The owner, Ji Fang, was cleaning the bookshelves when she saw two regular customers, and her face immediately lit up with a smile.

"Mr. Zhongli, Mr. Han, Happy Lantern Festival!"

"Happy Lantern Festival. Boss, any new books to recommend lately?" Han Fulai asked with a smile.

"If I were to recommend something... there's a poetry collection called 'Tianheng Juedao Ji' that's been selling quite well lately, and it seems to appeal to a wider audience. But Mr. Han, like Mr. Zhongli, you probably prefer classical Chinese poetry, right?"

Han Fulai smiled. Li Yue's current poetry collections are mostly in the modern style, which doesn't pay much attention to tonal patterns and rhymes, so Han Fulai doesn't really appreciate them.

Zhongli waved his hand and said, "It doesn't matter if there are no new books. My friend Han and I are just browsing around today."

"Then you two can take your time looking around. Just let me know if you want anything," Ji Fang said, before returning to her cleaning work.

Zhongli walked into the store, casually picked up a book from the bookshelf and flipped through it, then casually asked, "Young friend Han, have you ever heard of the origin of Liyue's books?"

"I haven't heard of that before," Han Fulai shook his head.

As Zhongli flipped through the book, he explained to Han Fulai, "People grind tree pulp to make paper. To make it easier to use and read, they used knots to fix the paper together, which is called a 'book.' Later, in order to make books faster and better, people invented movable type printing. After several evolutions, this kind of book that is easy to mass-produce was born. Since then, all kinds of stories and vernacular stories have become more and more numerous."

"Following Mr. Zhongli really does broaden one's horizons," Han Fu replied, thinking to himself that Liyue was not much different from China in terms of papermaking and printing techniques.

Zhongli then asked, "Are there any Liyue books here that have left a deep impression on you?"

Han Fulai thought for a moment, then took a book from the bookshelf and handed it to Zhongli.

Zhongli looked at it and saw that the book cover read "The Emperor's Travels in the Mortal World".

Showing the Yan King Emperor the biography of the Emperor was obviously Han Fulai's way of flattering Zhong Li. However, the book, "The Emperor's Journey in the Dust," was indeed quite well-written. Han Fulai still remembered many of the scenes in it, especially the story about Zhong Li transforming into a woman and even having her image carved into a jade tablet.

"Oh? So you've read this book too."

Zhongli didn't open the book, but it was as if he already knew its contents by heart. He casually commented, "The author of this book has a lot of ideas and his thinking is free-flowing. Even I don't quite understand what's written in the book. It's very refreshing to read, as if I'm reading about someone else's life."

You mean to say that this book is full of fake news, right? Han Fulai twitched the corner of his mouth, feeling like he had flattered someone who had backfired.

Zhongli continued, "Gods and immortals are too distant for ordinary people to describe. The rock god Morax does indeed travel among humans, but he doesn't have many fancy incarnations. He just walks the streets without attracting attention. Excessive disguise would only make things worse."

No… actually, what you're wearing right now is already quite eye-catching. Han Fulai silently complained to himself. And why are you so concerned about wearing women's clothing? It feels like you're trying to hide something! Could it be… that the stories in this book are actually true?

As if seeing through Han Fulai's heart, Zhongli stared at him very seriously and said, "This is just fiction; it shouldn't be taken too seriously."

Han Fulai nodded quickly.

“However, this discrepancy is precisely the difference between anecdotes and official history. Reading other people’s works is like seeing the world through their eyes. It’s unfamiliar, but also interesting. Speaking of official history, I recommend this book, ‘The Record of the Guardian Immortals and Yakshas.’” Zhongli said, pulling a book from the bookshelf.

“I’ve read this book before,” Han Fulai said, recalling the book he had seen at Yan Fei’s house. “It was indeed very impressive.”

“So you’ve read it. That’s rare. I heard this book is too difficult to read and not very popular. But the Yakshas described in the book are real people. The Yaksha clan are the heroes of Liyue. They have suffered many casualties in wars. From the nearby harbors to the far-off Ridgelands, Liyue has always been safe thanks to their protection,” Zhongli said.

"Yes, I met with the Great Sage Who Subdues Demons the day before yesterday, and he asked me to send his regards to you," Han Fulai said.

“It seems you’ve become acquainted with Xiao.” Zhongli smiled. “That’s excellent.”

“Xiao is now used to acting alone and has been mostly active in the Dihuazhou area in recent years. I went to Wangshu Inn to look for him a couple of days ago, but unfortunately he was out that day.”

So you actually went to see him. If Xiao knew he missed out on you, he'd regret it terribly. Han Fulai thought silently.

Zhongli, still in high spirits, continued, "'Azure waters meet the sky, and flowers bloom in abundance,' that describes Dihua Isle perfectly. If it weren't for the distance, I would love to take a walk on Dihua Isle every day."

Han Fulai recalled the scenery he had seen at Wangshu Inn and said, "I also visited Wangshu Inn the other day. Dihua Isle grows by the water, with reeds rustling in the breeze. The view from the top is breathtaking."

"Wangshu Inn is located in the south-central part of Dihua Island, boasting both beautiful scenery and delicious food, making it a popular resting place for travelers. Speaking of which, the chef at Wangshu Inn is an excellent cook. I remember that during the last Lunar Festival, a cooking competition was held in Liyue Harbor. The chef from the inn was the representative of the Dihua Island region and successfully won the runner-up position in the competition." Zhongli spoke of food with great familiarity.

“This excellent cooking is truly worth traveling a long way to taste,” Zhongli said, then suddenly changed the subject, “However, Wangshu Inn is more than just an inn.”

Han Fulai recalled what Keqing had said to Phil Goddette, the owner of the Wangshu Inn: the Wangshu Inn was an intelligence agency under Ningguang. Was Zhongli trying to tell him about the inn? But he already knew that.

Zhongli then began to talk about geography: "The inn is built on high ground, with an excellent view, making it easy to monitor the surroundings. The road it is on is also one of the main routes to Liyue. Guarding this place is of utmost importance. That's why Xiao often stays at Wangshu Inn. From Wangshu Inn, you can see Guyun Pavilion to the southeast."

"Guyun Pavilion...is that where the demon god is suppressed?" Han Fulai thought of the matter of Osel.

“Indeed. Lord Guyun seals away a demon god, which easily breeds evil spirits. Sometimes, Xiao also travels there from Dihua Island. The journey back and forth is very difficult. I went to Dihua Island the other day, intending to say a few words of comfort to him. Unexpectedly, he was not on the roof of the inn…” Zhongli looked regretful.

"It's alright, we'll have time to meet again in the future," Han Fulai quickly reassured him. "Xiao also often thinks of you, so why don't we get together with him on the Lantern Festival?"

“If he’s willing,” Zhongli smiled.

"Speaking of my old friends, I'm reminded of a place. It's a pity I can't take you there today."

"Where?" Han Fulai asked curiously.

"Qingyun Peak. That place was once requisitioned by immortals, and then left idle. I wonder if anyone still takes care of it now... On Qingyun Peak, high in the clouds, watching the moon set and the sun rise, time itself becomes blurred."

Han Fulai certainly knew about Qingyun Peak, but that place required flying up. As a mere mortal, Han Fulai couldn't possibly reach such a high place without a celestial guide. Furthermore, he currently had a mission related to the fireworks festival and couldn't accompany Zhongli on a trip to the distant Qingyun Peak.

"Alas, after hearing what Mr. Zhongli said, I am even more eager to see the fairyland scenery. What a pity..." Han Fulai sighed.

“Actually, Qingyun Peak was built by my old friend Liuyun Jiefeng Zhenjun. I remember you’ve met her several times, right?” Zhongli asked.

Han Fulai thought of the old cranes living alone on Mount Aozang and nodded.

"I met him just recently. He's a wonderful person, very... talkative."

“You are knowledgeable, kind-hearted, and have a close relationship with her disciple Gan Yu, so you will naturally get along well with her,” Zhongli said. “The True Lord of Cloud-Borrowing Wind is an expert in mechanical arts, and can also be considered an inventor. She is kind, gentle, honest, and sincere, and is a rare and invaluable teacher and friend.”

"Indeed." Han Fulai agreed. When it comes to speaking frankly, Liu Yun Jie Feng Zhenjun claims to be second to none in Liyue.

"An old friend of mine once said that if you want to know some everyday gossip, instead of searching the streets and alleys for three days and three nights, you might as well chat with Liu Yun for an hour. What do you think?"

...But usually she could chat people away in two minutes. Han Fulai nodded vigorously, recalling Gan Yu and Ke Qing fleeing in disarray on Mount Aozang.

"Strongly agree."

Judging from Han Fulai's expression, Zhongli had already guessed what had happened when they met, and couldn't help but smile.

"Haha, it's not a bad thing that True Lord Liuyun is outspoken. She says she doesn't care about the mortal world, but she actually loves humans very much."

“That’s true.” Han Fulai recalled Liu Yun Jie Feng Zhenjun’s complaint about her old friend Xiao Yue Zhu Yang Zhenjun, saying that she “couldn’t bring herself to visit Liyue Harbor.” In fact, she herself longed to visit more often.

“My old friends always say they like peace and quiet, but I still think that being exposed to some of the hustle and bustle of life is what makes one truly alive in this world,” Zhongli said with a slight smile.

"By the way, Master Fan from Heyu Teahouse mentioned earlier that Mr. Yun went to Qingce Manor. Compared to the bustling Liyue Harbor, Qingce Manor is much quieter."

"Yes, I've been there a few times and I know it all too well."

Qingce Village is sparsely populated, mostly with the elderly, women, and children; it is indeed quiet.

"The land was flat and spacious, the houses were neatly arranged, and there were fertile fields, beautiful ponds, mulberry trees and bamboo groves. The paths crisscrossed, and the sounds of chickens and dogs could be heard. People went about their farming, and the elderly and children alike were all enjoying themselves." Han Fulai was moved by this and couldn't help but recite a passage from "The Peach Blossom Spring".

“Yes. I’ve been to Qingce Village before during the Lantern Festival. The old people in the village prepare food, and the children learn to weave lanterns. It’s really nostalgic… It’s like the scene when Liyue was first established.” Zhongli looked up, as if reminiscing about the past.

"At that time, adults were mostly busy preparing for war or building, and the elderly and children also supported and cared for each other, living a simple and peaceful life."

"Starting a business is fraught with difficulties and countless battles..." Han Fulai imagined Liyue at that time and felt a pang of emotion.

“It is indeed difficult, but the people of Liyue are resilient and optimistic by nature. No matter how hard life is, they never stop moving forward.” Zhongli crossed his arms, a hint of pride in his expression.

“In ancient times, Qingce Village was harassed by the Chi dragon, but it has been pacified for thousands of years. Over the millennia, people have built houses and cultivated fertile fields. After a long period of time, we have finally achieved the scene we see today.”

“A great demon harasses the sea, and an evil dragon dwells in the mountains… It is said that the mountains and rivers of Qingce Village are transformed from that evil dragon.” Han Fulai recalled the story told by the storyteller.

“I’ve also heard the legend that ‘after the dragon dies, its body transforms into mountains and streams.’” Zhongli shook his head. “A romantic legend, but unfortunately, it’s not true. The towering rocks have stood for thousands of years, and the clear springs have flowed for ten thousand years. People are able to live on this land because of their hard work.”

"Qingce Village is a tranquil and beautiful place with lush mountains and clear waters. When I last visited Qingce Village, the residents gave me some fresh bamboo shoots. After bringing them back to Liyue Harbor, they became a seasonal delicacy. Bamboo shoots in this season are truly a rare and precious commodity."

After hearing Zhongli's words, Han Fulai remained silent in thought.

Seeing this, Zhongli smiled again and put the book back on the bookshelf.

"Alright, it's getting late. If we don't go back soon, Master Hu will get angry with me."

Han Fulai nodded, and the two returned the way they came.

Before they knew it, the sunset had already begun to rise on the horizon, and lanterns were already lit in the sky above Liyue Harbor.

Zhongli pointed to the sky and said, "This year's lanterns seem to be more exquisite than ever before. The fireworks display is also something to look forward to."

"Today's trip with Mr. Zhongli was very fruitful," Han Fulai said.

Zhongli smiled and said, "The beauty of Liyue has always been breathtaking. It is delicate and elegant when alone, and magnificent when in a group. The true feelings can only be understood by seeing it with one's own eyes."

“No wonder the Emperor travels among the common people every year. Otherwise, he wouldn’t have been able to guide Liyue for over 3,700 years.” Han Fulai also looked up at the sky.

"The people of Liyue are busier now than they used to be, but during festivals, they always travel long distances to return home, sit around the hearth, and share the joy. The scenery they see along the way, even if it's just a glimpse, can soothe their souls."

Zhongli still smiled, "Young friend Han, this beautiful scenery also belongs to you. You still have many things to do in the future. But I hope you can feel at ease and comfortable in Liyue."

Han Fulai bowed deeply to the ground.

"Thank you for your guidance, Your Majesty. I will certainly live up to your expectations."

"Being blinded by the fog and preoccupied with trivial matters prevents one from seeing the distant mountains. If one can break through the fog, one will surely gain a clear understanding. Young friend Han, I wish you every success."

Zhongli walked forward with his hands behind his back, chanting a long, drawn-out verse:

"Green hills beyond the bridge in the rain, a lamp before the road in the cold forest; may I be like a star in the clouds, illuminating the path for the night traveler."

Han Fulai straightened up, gazing at Zhongli's retreating figure, and softly recited a seven-character quatrain in response:

"Scholars have a strong and unyielding spirit, valuing friendship above all else and despising officialdom above all else. If you are truly sincere and trustworthy, they will be willing to lay bare their hearts and souls."

Chapter Fifty-Four: Flying Stars Gather in Splendor, May Our Glory Be Engraved (Part One)

As the days passed, Han Fulai was busy with the intensive preparations for the fireworks festival, and before he knew it, it was the day before the Lantern Festival.

Ningguang has already passed a motion at the Seven Stars meeting to establish the "Liyue National Bank," which will be jointly funded by the Seven Stars of Liyue—Ningguang, as the largest investor, will serve as the bank's chairperson.

The construction facilities for the Golden House were completed in just a few days, completely enclosing the entire Golden House vault. Ke Qing has been living and working on the construction site for the past few days. According to Gong Ming, the commissioner of Baishui Hall, "Lady Ke Qing has been leading the way in working overtime, making me embarrassed to even mention asking for leave for the holidays."

The news of the Golden House's construction hasn't caused much of a stir in Liyue Harbor yet. After all, everyone knows that the despicable Fatui Enforcer forcibly broke into the Golden House, so it's perfectly normal for it to need repairs.