Chapter 645 (Patreon)

The caravan passed through several buildings that lined the roads.

Even more than before, the densely packed houses and buildings filled up the view as hundreds of people could be seen from the sides.

We passed an inn with something good-smelling drifting out of the windows. There was a marketplace off to the side, just out of the main path of the road the caravan was on.

And there were a large variety of other buildings. A painter’s stall set up with various artworks. A local blacksmith selling their wares, most of which looked like household items rather than weapons. m

Lots of farmers carrying equipment, farming supplies, or even heaving sacks of grain over their shoulders.

The people around here appeared accustomed to travelers, because no one batted an eye at our arrival. The children were a good indication of that as the parents only watched on and didn’t show any concern as they ran around nearby.

If it wasn’t something they were used to, if there were concerns, the parents most certainly would have been ushering their children inside or hovering over them protectively.

We rode through the town and came to a very large rock formation, a natural barrier, as it hung overhead in an arc and acted as walls on either side.

Artoria and I both watched it curiously, not used to this kind of sight.

But as soon as we passed through, the view opened up, and then that’s when we saw it.

We sat at the top of a cliff that overlooked Liyue.

It was easy to guess it was Liyue just from the size and scope. 

It was a harbor city, very Chinese in appearance. There were dozens of boats in the harbor, and I could squint my eyes to see dozens more off the coast, maybe military ships?

But I think Liyue was even larger than Mondstadt, and for the time period, Mondstadt was already a large city.

“The terrain is deceptively beneficial to the city.” Artoria spoke. “It appears as though invaders would have the high ground advantage if they were to attack the city, but the city was expertly designed to counter that natural advantage while retaining the benefit of the natural terrain acting as a barrier.”

“The high walls that connect the city to the docks down below are fortified and proper walls even if they’re woven into the city’s architecture.” I guessed.

“Indeed.” Artoria nodded. “And they drew the harbor inward to act as a moat, letting the natural waterfalls flow unimpeded, which acts as another natural defense. This forces any invaders to have to both deploy troops to blockade the harbor, which would require significant investment, and send a proper land invasion. If either is ignored, it allows the city to sustain a siege through secondary channels.”

“Most militaries usually have one specialty, either a strong ground force or a strong navy, in this case. One is often the primary focus, or rather, the stronger of the two, meaning there will be a weakness to exploit if invaders are forced to split their focus," I mused.

“That is correct.” Artoria hummed. “Whoever designed this city did so expertly. I would not wish to lay siege to it if I had the choice. Any victory would be pyrrhic at best.” She pointed at the landscape. “The city also is sectioned into levels; if it were me and the city were being invaded, upon retreat from each section, I would set it ablaze. It would give my troops time to retreat and fortify back positions and deny any assets that the invaders could use to their advantage.”

She definitely had a different perspective of things than I did. Though, I shouldn’t be surprised considering her life up until this point.

Looking at a city and immediately noticing its flaws or strengths is probably something subconscious for her.

Beyond that, as the caravan descended down the cliff, I noticed something neat. There was a large stone staircase laid out downwards, yet it was split into three sections. On the left, it was normal stairs, and on the right, there were also normal stairs, but in between, it was a flat pathway with grooves for cart wheels with little bumps in them to limit descent speed.

How meticulously planned.

They must move a significant amount of good through the city if they designed something like this, putting all that time and effort and money into its construction.

Artoria pulled on my sleeve, pointing up at the sky; that’s when I noticed it. “What is that?”

“A flying building?” I answered, but unsure myself.

Moreso, it looked like a floating palace, albeit on the smaller end. At least, when compared to what a ‘normal’ palace would be in size. But ignoring that comparison, it was still rather large and loomed overhead rather imposingly.

Definitely someone of status lives there.

Is that where their god lives?

Interesting.

As we got closer, I felt it.

It was like the ground itself was infused with divine power. Not in an imposing and suffocating way, but like…remnants, afterthoughts left behind by the work of a god. 

From what I understand, the god here helped build the city a long time ago? And he was a god of geo—a god of earth, basically. So his presence lingering in the earth beneath our feet wasn’t strange.

But even still, it was intriguing. I could feel the faint divinity in the ground as it played with my own divinity.

The god here must be powerful to leave such an impression in the earth.

I briefly wondered if I was stronger based on just this brief touch of his remnants.

Then, I had the sudden question on my mind.

What is a god? Gods persist across so many worlds, taking on so many different forms. From my birth world to my world of origin, to heretic gods to the Archons here. They were all apparently gods; Venti was a god just as Susanoo was a god, heretic title or not. 

I…don't think I wanted to become a god, but at the same time, it made me question, could I become a god?

I had divinity, I had divine authority…What else was I missing? Well…the most obvious answer, my ‘existence’ wasn’t elevated enough.

Even the lowest levels of gods, mountain gods, river gods, and even things like Valkyries had higher levels of ‘existence’ compared to mortal beings. They had a higher ‘existence’ than me, despite the fact that I was stronger.

Strength did not equate to being a higher existence. There were, of course, methods for mortals to ascend upwards. The Adepti, Cloud Retainer, even spoke of that. She was a normal crane at one point in time, and she went through ascension to become a higher existence.

Jinn went from a spirit of knowledge to a goddess; that was a qualitative increase in her 'existence.'

Servants, likewise, are a higher existence, though not quite gods. Divine spirits are lower forms of gods but still higher existences.

I was…not a higher existence. 

For gods, for higher existences, they could shrug off lots of things simply by virtue of them being ‘higher’ on the proverbial totem pole. For me, that same ability came from my actual strength or likewise other means.

For a god, they would dismiss magic that couldn’t reach the realm of gods.

I could do so as well, but for me, that came from the fact that I had so much magical energy crammed into my body, under my skin, that it became magic resistance.

Devils, they aren’t higher existences. Devils are still 'mortal,' even if they have very long life spans.

I was able to use the Hogyoku to trace back my bloodline to my progenitors, but it didn’t go further back than that because the Hogyoku wasn’t capable of ascending me, as angels were a higher existence.

The closest I’ve gotten is when I use the True Longinus to become an angel temporarily, and that…isn't quite the same. That’s more like wearing a mask, a special suit that says 'angel,' rather than fully becoming one. 

The difference is usually academic and not worth mentioning, except in this case.

The question became, could I achieve apotheosis if I wanted to? I was, frankly, one step away from that if I so desired.

And I note that I don’t actually have a desire to become a god. I wouldn’t be angry or upset if it suddenly happened, but I think I can self-reflect and say that I like the self as I am now. I have done a great many things to myself, changing myself in a way that makes me incomparable to my normal self.

But maybe it’s the human parts of me that say that I don’t want to give up my humanity?

There are precious little bits of me remaining that are ‘human’, I think. And part of me wants to preserve them and not lose them because those are important.

Is it possible to become a god without giving up my status as a mortal?

That sounds absolutely contradictory. You can’t be both; it’s either one or the other, right?

But since when did I acknowledge limitations like common sense?

The thought was intriguing.

The thing is, if I were to become a god…my power would take a large step forward; I would immediately ascend another 'level,' as it were, in strength.

I couldn’t claim to know how strong that would make me, but it would certainly be significant.

But that was just under the premise that it was possible. There’s no point in pulling the cart before the horse. I wouldn’t even know where to start in all honesty, the idea was just a sudden thought I had after seeing the divinity seeped into the land here.

Artoria poked my cheek. “Wilhelm, you have been silently staring for several minutes.”

I snapped back to reality. “Sorry, got lost in thought for a moment.” I’ll put that idea off for now, but I don’t think it’s a bad idea. 

“And what has you so lost in thought?” She asked but paused for a moment. “That does not involve my rear.”

Hmm, I seemed to have subconsciously moved my hand to her butt.

“Mmm, I think at least…70% of my thoughts involve that.”

She rolled her eyes and gave me a playful swat at the shoulder. 

[Do you wish to become a god?] Musu Tengai, who didn’t speak much, spoke up. [The paradox of becoming a god but remaining mortal.]

Do you have any suggestions?

[Hmm. Perhaps. But it will have to be your own hand; it’s not something I can coach you on.

[Well, that’s unhelpful.] Ddraig chimed in. [If you know something, just tell him. Why do people have to be so mysterious or vague?

[It makes me sound more impressive.] Musu Tengai replied.

I snorted because that’s exactly how I would respond, and it just reaffirmed the fact that he’s definitely my Zanpakutō.

[It’s not my job to make decisions for you, Wilhelm. It’s not my role to tell you which paths to take or how to reach certain destinations. You’re smart, so you will figure things out if I say that there are things within your grasp available to you. On the road called life, I am merely your travel companion, your support. I will be here to provide shelter from the rain, to help you carry what weighs you down, and to offer your advice when you need it. But I will not ever dictate the direction of your steps or lead you towards one specific destination.

I clicked my tongue because I was slightly peeved. Like, someone telling me to my face that I’m overlooking something that may be helpful, but I also understood where he was coming from.

Depending on what route I went, things would turn out differently. If he pointed at any specific one, would that be me figuring things out and deciding on my own, or would that be him deciding for me?

[I also have advice.] Ddriag spoke up again.

Yeah? What advice do you have, Ddraig?

[You should eat more of the food here. Because I can use the memories of it to experience it myself inside your soul.] 

Thank you, Ddraig, for your fount of wisdom.

[No problem.]

It was slow, but we reached the bottom of the cliff right at the entrance to the city. We weren’t the only ones there, and it was at this point that I realized they were coordinating with people at the top of the cliff to direct traffic.

It would be awkward if a cart were coming down while a cart were also going upwards, considering there was only one 'road.'

I leaned out of the card to listen in.

“Welcome, to Liyue. Please direct your carts to the side here for inspection before you proceed into the city.” One of the guards, and a few others behind him, directed to the caravan leader.

With a few orders barked, the cards were pulled off to the side of the road next to the entrance as Artoria and I hopped off.

The Liyue guards were easy to note; they were all dressed in the same uniform and armor, all carrying the same type of spear with them.

A nice-looking spear, I wanted to get my hands on one if possible.

They started moving towards the carts carrying goods, opening crates, inspecting goods, and normal things like that.

“Identification please.” One guard in particular came over, looking at me and Artoria.

“Will an Adventurer’s Card suffice?”

“That’s acceptable.” He nodded as we both held them out for him to see. “Looks good, enjoy your time in Liyue. Please visit the Adventurer’s Guild for a list of laws to adhere to if you’re new to Liyue.”

It sounded rather rehearsed, it must be normal for Adventurer’s from other nations to get into trouble, even by accident, huh?

“Exucse me, Good sir.” Artoria spoke up. “May I ask, what is that in the sky?” She pointed to the floating building.

“Oh, it must be your first time in Liyue.” He perked up as clearly the well-rehearsed lines were put away. “That is the Jade Chamber, the creation of her Excellency, Lady Ningguang, Tianquan of the Qixing.” 

“Impressive.” I could admire the ability to craft something like that. “What purpose does it serve, if I may ask?”

“It is Lady Tianquan’s seat of power, her palace above the clouds. As the most respected and powerful leader in Liyue, her palace sits above the city to overlook all below. Are you curious about it?” He asked casually.

“Quite. It is not often one sees a floating palace.” Artoria nodded.

“There are many rumors, of course. They say that a single parchment depicting Lady Ningguang’s thoughts on the market is worth more than a crate of gold. That from that palace, the ebb and flow of commerce is decided in Liyue. That every rise and fall of a Merchant is directed under the word of her pen.”

He sounded rather proud.

“She sounds quite amazing.” Artoria praised.

“Yes.” The guard nodded with a bright smile. “The Tianquan’s feats are legendary. If you’re interested, there are many books written and sold about her exploits within the city.”

“Thank you for the information, we’ll definitely check them out.”

“Enjoy your stay in Liyue.” He said politely as he moved on.

“He was nice," I noted.

“Yes, we have interacted with a great many pleasant individuals so far. I am pleased that both from Mondstadt and now Liyue, the local authorities have observed etiquette and shown kindness to us as travelers. It speaks well of both cities when the simple guards treat strangers in such a way.” Artoria made her own observations.

“Attention everyone!” The caravan owner shouted, drawing the attention of everyone on the caravan. “For everyone hired, we thank you for your service to arrive here safely. This is where we’ll part for now. You can seek out the Adventurer’s Guild here in Liyue to receive your rewards. If you wish to return to Mondstadt, we will be departing a week from today, at first light. You can sign up for the caravan return escort at the adventurer's guild as well. Thank you all.”

“I guess that’s our cue.” I hopped out of the cart and held my hand out as I helped Artoria out.

“I am feeling excited again.” She smiled brightly. “Shall we explore?” She took my arm around hers again.

We crossed the bridge and it was like the city sprang to life. The hustle and bustle of a major city – especially one that focused on trade – was apparent. The immediately sight were stalls set up, merchants trying to sell things everywhere.

I think I heard them say that Liyue was the city of merchants?

Well, it certainly showed.

“Top quality grain! Fresh right from Qingce Village, quality guaranteed!” A man was hollering from a stand set up with sacks of grain stacked up high, with a cart behind it just as full.

“Silver and gold jewelry!” A woman held up a necklace and a bracelet for passersby to see.

“Candied fruit skewers here! Freshly made!” Another woman held up skewers of different candies, coated in a thick sugary glaze.

There was a well-built man shouting next to a stand full of different vases or furniture. “Antiques! Recently excavated from ancient ruins! Seal of authenticity approved!”

“Wine! Famous Jade Fire wine! Cheaper than anywhere else!” An older gentleman stood in front of several large jars and several dozen smaller ones.

We both shared a look.

She went for the candied fruit; I went for the wine seller.

“Excuse me, how much for one of those large jars.” I pointed at the vat behind the wine seller.

“The big one?” He eyed me. “That’ll be 40,000 Mora. I can deliver it for an extra 3,000 Mora if you don’t got a cart.”

I set the Mora on the table. “No need; I got it.” I looked at the vats and picked one before lifting it up over my head.

The man just stared at me incredulously. 

“Have a good day.” I waved goodbye as I stepped away. Artoria was already waiting for me. “Is it good?”

She had a few skewers of different candied fruits. “Mhmm.” She held one in my mouth, and I took a bite.

It was yummy, less sweet than you would imagine when it looked like it was coated in a syrup-like coating. 

I waved my free hand to cast a quick illusion, then put the jar of wine away for now.

I was going to try it later, but it was also going to be a gift to Venelana. And whoever else enjoys drinking, like Scáthach. I’m sure Yasaka would enjoy the wine as well.

“These appear to be the commercial docks?” I held a hand over my eyes to block out the sun. “Over that way, I think that’s more the personal docks? Or whatever it’s called for people to park their personal boats. Like fishermen and such.”

Artoria’s eyes lit up; the candy was all gone at this point. “Let’s go.” She grabbed my arm and pulled me forward.

I could practically smell the fish as we got closer.

There was a whole fish market down at this side of the docks. As I suspected, there were a great many fishing boats docked up here and lots of people trying to sell their daily catches. As well as some other types of stalls, some people were selling cooked foods, and I think I eyed a blacksmith in the corner.

Artoria’s eyes sparkled as she went for the closest stall, and I followed her gaze. 

“Good evening, folks. Feel free to look at anything that catches your eye.” The fishmonger gave the go-ahead to inspect the goods.

And inspect we did.

I picked up a crab; it was massive. As in, at least twice the size of the crabs back home. Not like a king crab, but it looked to be a snow crab or the equivalent, yet easily double in size.

But that wasn’t even the most egregiously absurd thing he had.

Artoria was standing next to the biggest tuna I’ve ever seen.

As in, it was bigger than her.

She plucked it off the rope it was hanging by, holding it in her arms like she was holding the most precious treasure of her life.

She gave me a look.

“...how much for everything?” I asked him.

“Everything?” he perked up. “Well, I’ll be honest, I was about to pack up for the evening; the sun's about to go down. And I was going to have to take everything that didn’t sell to one of the restaurants for a loss, so I’ll give you a discount. Call it 11,000 Mora?”

That’s it?

I looked around, catching a few more Fishmongers, and they had about the same sized Tuna on display. Some cut up into pieces, but overall, they were more or less int he same weight class.

Was this just normal here?

Because a tuna of this size back home…that would be, if using the Mora equivalent, probably well over a hundred thousand?

“Deal.” I set the more on his counter before he could change his mind. 

“Do you need help carrying it home…?”

That was nice of him to offer. 

It was several dozen crabs, a few Tuna, albeit Artoria’s was by far the largest even if the others were absurd in size as well, and some other seafood. Some shrimp which were also about three times the size I was used to, some clams that were bigger than my hands…honestly….

“No need; we have a cart over there.” I gestured to an open space and wove a quick illusion to make it look like I wasn’t just stuffing things into my storage ring.

“Well, I’ll be cleaning up and taking my stand down if you need me.” The man said with a kind smile.

I quickly deposited everything away, bar the giant fish in Artoria’s arms.

“Do you want to hold onto it, or…?”

She seemed to reluctantly put it away in her own storage. But I could see the sheer excitement on her face.

“Do you want to cook it specifically, or do you want to find a restaurant to try the local cuisine?” I offered.

“We can save it for later. I wish to eat it with everyone else.” She nodded to herself before taking my arms again. “And Wilhelm…”

“Hmm?”

“....as the man said, it is evening, and it will be night soon. Mayhaps after dinner, we find a room at an Inn, and….spend the night together.” She lowered her head slightly.

Oh?

Oh.

It took me a moment, but I understood.

Well, I certainly wouldn’t say no.

@***@

A/N

Lewd Artoria is coming up.