In the Western Sea, known as the strongest among the Four Seas, countless nations rise and fall, and diverse races coexist. It is also the most frequent site of weapons trading, rife with wars and darkness.
Keqing frowned slightly, gazing at the sky filled with drifting resentment. The unending wars among nations had caused innumerable tragedies, forcing many to abandon their homes and become pirates ravaging the seas.
Silently sensing the ancient memories imprinted on the land, Zhongli turned to Keqing.
"Keqing, as the Yuheng Star, what do you think should be done about this situation?"
After a moment of contemplation, Keqing crossed her arms and replied, "Mr. Zhongli, I'm not sure of a specific solution. However, the constant wars waged by these nations bring nothing but suffering to ordinary people. Many of the nobles in this world lack both conscience and limits. They start wars solely for their own benefit, causing immense pain to the populace."
With a faint smile, Zhongli gazed upward. "This world is brimming with malice, leading many to unknowingly walk down dark or extreme paths. Such people inevitably create more tragedies, spreading evil further."
"As mere passersby, our role is simple," he said as a golden glow emanated from his body. Zhongli lightly tapped the ground, ascending into the sky. Beside him, Keqing quickly followed with a flash of lightning.
Below them, Touma blinked in confusion, suppressing the power of his Imagine Breaker. He stepped onto the air and ran after them.
From the heights of the sky, Zhongli's golden eyes surveyed the warring lands of the Western Sea. He raised his arm.
"As passersby, we must suppress and uproot the malice of this moment, ensuring no new malice arises. The root cause of these endless wars lies in the greed and malevolence of the nobles. Once we purge this evil, the wars will cease naturally."
"Following this, we plan to reshape the planet's land and unite the world into one," Zhongli continued. "The future governance of this world will be left to its people. Based on the knowledge from Hiroshi's books and additional research, we've outlined plans to assist the Navy in maintaining order."
A radiant golden light illuminated the heavens and earth. Massive spears of rock formed around Zhongli, hovering in readiness. His divine will radiated outward, enveloping the entire Western Sea.
"I am Zhongli, invited by the Navy to cleanse this land of malice. Do not fear. A new world will dawn in one day."
Holding a spear of rock, Zhongli imbued the populace with his divine will, calming their hearts. He then hurled the spear downward. The massive spears descended from the sky, their powerful whooshes resounding through the air, enveloping the entire region.
The clashing soldiers of two warring nations froze in awe and began retreating cautiously. Looking upward, they were stunned to see a golden sun in the sky and countless spears of rock descending like divine retribution.
With a thunderous crash, dust and debris shot skyward. A sharp rock spire emerged at the center of the battlefield, separating the two armies. Meanwhile, a massive crater formed in the rear ranks where noble commanders had been stationed. All but one steadfast young noble were reduced to dust.
Across the land, countless spears of rock brought judgment upon wrongdoers—from local bullies to marauding pirate fleets and oppressive nobles. The golden-glowing rock spires returned them to the earth, offering them a chance to start anew. Simultaneously, a calm and balanced will emanated from the spires, reassuring frightened civilians.
Gradually, groups of people gathered around the spires, murmuring among themselves. The growing whispers gave way to joy and relief.
High above, Touma surveyed the landscape dotted with rock spires. His lips tightened into a faint grimace. "Mr. Zhongli, isn't this a bit excessive? While I know these people committed unforgivable crimes, shouldn't we refrain from ending their lives outright?"
Zhongli turned to Touma with a calm expression. "Touma, I understand your kindness and compassion. But remember this: Showing kindness to malice can sometimes be more cruel than the malice itself. You must learn to temper your compassion."
Glancing at the contemplative Keqing, Zhongli looked down at the now peaceful sea. "Keqing, this is the role we passersby can play—eradicating the malice here and resetting the environment. Once our final plan is complete, this unified continent will give rise to a single nation."
"From there, the world's future will rest in the hands of its inhabitants. Based on Hiroshi's books and my guidance to the Navy, they will establish a new order."
The golden light around Zhongli coalesced into a star-shaped artifact, which he held aloft. "Though this new nation may one day dissolve, its initial unity will ensure its people never remain scattered. Eventually, a new unification will emerge."
Placing the artifact in the sky, its light spread across the land. Satisfied, Zhongli nodded. The Morning Star would stand as his sentinel, detecting any resurgence of malice.
Turning to his companions, Zhongli gestured for them to follow. With his hands clasped behind his back, he began walking toward their origin point.
"Though this new nation may falter over time, its legacy of unity will endure. One day, a new harmony will rise. Now, let us return."