Tianheng Mountain
Ever since Takumi decided to open the 'Gate to the World' here, Zhongli had flattened the top of the mountain and built a huge square. The square was large enough to accommodate a Qianyan Army of 10,000 stationed in Liyue. Surrounding the square, craftsmen from the "Seven Stars and Eight Gates" built a magnificent palace. Although it took less than a month to build, it was not inferior to Feiyun Slope in Liyue Harbor at all.
As a cautious individual, Zhongli could guess part of his great master's, God Teyvat's, intentions. The 'Gate to the World' must be the 'God's Gate' that leads the subordinate worlds to the great world of Teyvat. If the subordinate world is conquered by any country, then that country will likely assume control and manage the annexed subordinate world.
Zhongli wondered what Lord Tianli's standards would be for those from the 'subordinate world' ascending to the great world of Teyvat. Would it be immortals or gods?
At this time, all the "Yaksha Immortals" and "Seven Stars and Eight Gates" who received the order from the "Emperor of Rock" set out for Tianheng Mountain Square. Those qualified to know about the "World Swallowing Plan" had been summoned by the "Emperor of Rock" in Jueyunjian two months ago.
When they first discovered that 'Mr. Zhongli' was, in fact, the 'Emperor of the Rock,' Liyue's Seven Stars were shocked. Ningguang and Keqing, in particular, were stunned since they had often consulted with the wise Mr. Zhongli. Especially Ningguang, who had even invited Zhongli to be her consultant.
Now that they knew Mr. Zhongli was the 'Emperor of Rock,' they were understandably shaken. As soon as they composed themselves, the Emperor conveyed the details of the "World Swallowing Plan" to their minds. They were just the Seven Stars of Liyue—ordinary people responsible for managing Liyue. How could they participate in such a grand plan involving the gods and Sky Island?
When they left Jueyunjian, they were still in shock. It took several days for them to calm down after returning to Liyue Harbor. Since then, they had witnessed the world of Teyvat undergo tremendous changes and learned news from the current Fox Envoy God—Narukami's relative.
After completing a mission for Sky Island, Sky Island was generous in rewarding them. As long as a wish was made, the gods of Sky Island would fulfill it—even if the wish was to become a 'god.' Ningguang and Keqing firmly believed in this. After all, had they not seen Yaegongji, a subordinate of the Narukami God, become a god?
Ningguang, with her long platinum hair, wore her elegant cheongsam, a combination of gold, white, and black, symbolizing her wealth. She looked at Keqing, whose waist-length hair was tied in a cat head style, wearing a noble purple dress, and smiled.
"It's unimaginable that Inazuma and Fontaine have completed the great feat of annexing a world. To think that one day I would also participate in this grand and crazy process—I feel honored. What about you, Keqing?"
Keqing, though slightly exhausted, smiled confidently. "The Emperor... No matter what the Emperor says, it is right. The Emperor allows us to participate in such a grand plan because he recognizes our abilities."
Ningguang nodded. Their position as Seven Stars was a testament to their outstanding abilities. And now they would not just assist the Emperor in managing Liyue, but follow him to another chaotic world, just like their ancestors did during the Demon God War—fighting alongside the Emperor to cleanse the world.
Keqing looked up at the colorful streams of light approaching. "The immortals are also here. We must hurry; it would be disrespectful to keep the Emperor waiting."
She quickened her pace, and Ningguang followed suit.
### In the Main Hall
The main hall was expansive, akin to the General Affairs Department of Yujingtai, but much wider. It contained a long desk and numerous chairs, making it ideal for discussions.
Colorful streams of light landed in the hall, revealing eight figures—five immortals and three disciples of the immortals.
True Lord Liuyun Jiefeng slightly bowed to Zhongli. "Emperor, my two disciples and I are ready."
Gan Yu bowed her head, "Emperor."
Shenhe followed suit, "Emperor."
True Lord Gechenlang City, looking like an elderly woman, leaned on her cane and said, "Emperor, I have only brought my disciple Yanfei this time. The other children are too young to participate in the 'World Swallowing Plan.'"
Yanfei, visibly surprised, glanced at Zhongli. She knew about the plan from her master, and was anxious. She often discussed legal matters with Mr. Zhongli. Now, she realized he was the Emperor, and she felt nervous. Yanfei quickly composed herself and bowed, "Emperor..."
True Lord Shayue Zhuyang, in human form, spoke excitedly, "We waited for two full months, and finally, the day is here."
Lishui Dieshan Zhenjun added, "It's only been two months, Shayue Zhuyang. Not two thousand years, so don't be too impatient."
The Great Sage Conquering Demons, Xiao, said respectfully, "Emperor, I have arrived."
Zhongli nodded, "Thank you, everyone. Please sit. We shall begin once all have arrived."
"Yes!" they responded in unison and took their seats.
After a while, the heads of Qixing Eight Gates and Qianyan Army also arrived.
The Seven Stars of Liyue—Ningguang, Keqing, Yelan, and Tian Shu—along with the head of Qianyan Army, Fengyan, who wielded the 'Eye of God,' were present. The Eight Gates included divisions like 'Huishan Hall,' responsible for mineral resources, 'Shenglu Hall,' responsible for cultural heritage, and others.
Not all were qualified to attend. Only those who Morax believed could contribute to the 'World Swallowing Plan' were summoned. With great anticipation, they took their seats, and silence descended over the room.
Zhongli surveyed those present and said, "Now that everyone is here, let us discuss our plans."
Suddenly, the silence was broken by approaching footsteps. A voice echoed, "Such an impressive staff. Liyue is indeed the most stable and powerful country among the seven nations. The plan hasn't even begun, and yet I am already inclined to praise you, Morax."