Genshin x Minecraft: Building the Temple of Virtue

In truth, it was Zhongli and Xiao who summoned Cloud Retainer to assist.

The two of them, however, chose not to accompany her directly to avoid suspicion.

Upon arriving at Jueyun Karst last night, Zhongli conducted an inspection and discovered that Mountain Shaper and Mooncarver had completely vanished.

Judging by the state of their abodes, it seemed they had been gone for three or four months already.

This discovery left Zhongli somewhat uneasy. He promptly sought out the only one still remaining—a reclusive Cloud Retainer.

After much questioning, he finally learned the truth: Mountain Shaper and Mooncarver had ventured off together to Sumeru… for training.

And why didn't Cloud Retainer join them?

Their official reasoning was that someone needed to stay behind and inform Rex Lapis.

Put more bluntly, in a way Zhongli could easily grasp…

"This bird doesn't talk much, so we're not taking her with us!"

With no other choice, especially since Xiao had already declared on Zhongli's behalf that a "flying expert" would be brought along, Zhongli explained the situation to Cloud Retainer.

As expected, she was instantly overjoyed upon hearing about Ryen's mysterious cubical world, clamoring to go there immediately.

Had it not been for Zhongli and Xiao restraining her, Ryen might have been ambushed in the dead of night by an overly enthusiastic crane.

It took a good half-day of calming her down before she finally settled.

Zhongli also repeatedly warned her—countless times, in fact—not to reveal her true identity in front of anyone except Ryen.

He repeated this advice no less than a hundred times.

Yet, from the moment Cloud Retainer heard about that magical block-based realm, her mind had wandered elsewhere.

Zhongli wasn't entirely confident she had remembered his instructions and could only leave with a heart full of unease.

This morning, Ganyu and Keqing had arrived rather early.

However, upon reaching Ryen's front door, they found Cloud Retainer standing before the massive, intricately built gate made entirely of "MC materials," studying it intently.

Thankfully, Cloud Retainer seemed to have retained Zhongli's instructions and explained that it was Xiao who had summoned her here.

Thus, the group met up without issue.

Unfortunately, while Ganyu received an unusual amount of care and concern from Cloud Retainer, the crane merely gave Ningguang a curt nod, clearly not a fan of her gold-driven personality.

And Keqing…

The fact that Cloud Retainer refrained from arguing with her outright was already an impressive display of restraint.

After all, Keqing's actions during last year's Rite of Descension had essentially trampled on the faith of the adepti.

Later, when Ningguang ordered breakfast from Liuli Pavilion, Keqing suddenly had the idea to use the provided materials to replicate one of the tables from Ryen's villa.

Using only her memory, Keqing managed to reproduce it fairly quickly.

Naturally, Cloud Retainer, who was deeply intrigued by these mysterious block-based materials, put aside her usual animosity toward Keqing and grudgingly asked for some wood.

What Ningguang and Keqing didn't expect was Cloud Retainer's apparent mastery of crafting.

After briefly skimming Ningguang's recipe book and observing the materials, she flawlessly assembled several chairs without a single mistake.

Then, in her usual lofty tone, she left behind a simple comment: "This isn't difficult at all."

With that, she soared away to gather some Qingxin flowers for Ganyu.

It must be said, Ningguang couldn't help but think:

If not for the adepti's strained relationship with humans—particularly Keqing's overt hostility toward them—she would have loved to formally request Cloud Retainer's expertise in construction for Liyue.

Having someone skilled in crafting and mechanisms would be far more beneficial for developing this world than mere fighters or businesspeople.

As they ate their breakfast from Liuli Pavilion, Ningguang casually praised Cloud Retainer while introducing her talents.

Ryen, with a touch of sentiment, remarked:

"So, as I've mentioned to you all before, the key to developing this world isn't numbers."

"What truly matters is opening your minds, daring to imagine, and boldly experimenting."

"Our resources are essentially infinite—there's no need to worry about losses from failure."

"Furthermore, most materials, even if misplaced, can be salvaged and restored using tools."

"Let your imaginations run wild. Whether you wish to replicate Liyue Harbor or Jueyun Karst on a one-to-one scale, or even recreate the entire land of Liyue itself…"

"So long as you have the vision and perseverance, it can be done."

Pausing for emphasis, Ryen's tone grew serious.

"Always remember, in this world, imagination matters far more than resources!"

"Creation is the only true theme here!"

This impassioned declaration left the group deep in thought.

Cloud Retainer, on the other hand, nodded repeatedly, looking deeply satisfied. Clearly, she was thrilled about this wondrous world and excited at the prospect of showcasing her crafting talents.

Meanwhile, Zhongli silently ate his breakfast, refraining from speaking.

Cloud Retainer was still too excitable at the moment, and Zhongli dared not engage her in conversation.

After all, if she blurted out something like "As Rex Lapis has decreed," all his careful efforts to remain incognito would be for naught.

Ningguang, having mentally cataloged everything Ryen said, glanced at Cloud Retainer.

Her eyes sparkled as she smiled elegantly and said,

"Ryen is absolutely correct. However, the ability to create using such unique materials is rare."

"Moreover, it's not yet the right time to publicly announce our collaboration regarding this world, and skilled artisans are in short supply."

"Considering the dangers of that realm, all things considered, only Cloud Retainer could handle such responsibilities."

Her subtle flattery hit the mark, and Cloud Retainer looked quite pleased, her gaze toward Ningguang softening significantly.

Noticing this shift, Ningguang immediately followed up:

"For example, if Cloud Retainer resided permanently in Liyue Harbor, we would ensure all her daily needs were met."

"With Liyue's current development and the exploration of that world, only Cloud Retainer is capable of shouldering such an important role."

Flattery has always been effective.

Ningguang's words quickly swayed Cloud Retainer.

Of course, even without Ningguang's request, Cloud Retainer had already been tempted to stay and explore this mysterious world.

Who knew what incredible creations she might be able to craft using those extraordinary resources?

Creating wonders from the simplest of materials had always been her passion.

And now, an entire world was available for her to study.

It didn't take long for Cloud Retainer to nod decisively.

"Since the Tianquan is so sincere in her request and it's for the betterment of Liyue, this immortal will not refuse."

Ningguang's eyes lit up with joy, though she maintained her composed elegance and nodded slightly.

"Thank you, Cloud Retainer. From now on, Liyue's exploration and development of that world, as well as any pioneering constructions, will depend on you."

Ningguang's eloquence, honed from her rise to Tianquan, was undeniably impressive. Even Cloud Retainer had to admit her words were persuasive.

Though Cloud Retainer still harbored some discontent about Ningguang's fixation on Mora, she began to acknowledge her competence as Tianquan.

Ningguang, however, was less concerned about personal opinions.

Her goal was to strengthen the bond between Liyue Harbor and the adepti—not solely relying on Rex Lapis.

It was one thing to say the adepti protected Liyue Harbor, but in truth, they acted on Rex Lapis's behalf, safeguarding the city only because of his dedication to it.

Thus, successfully securing the support of an adeptus like Cloud Retainer brought Ningguang great satisfaction.

Zhongli had indeed found a proper flying adeptus, which made Ryen quite pleased.

After quickly finishing the rest of his meal, Ryen accepted the napkin Ganyu handed over and wiped his mouth clean.

"Have you all settled the matters you needed to handle over the past two days?" Ryen asked.

Hearing this, Ganyu blinked in surprise before cautiously asking, "Ryen, are we going to be staying for a long time this time?"

Ryen nodded decisively. "Previously, we had fewer people and less strength, and you were unfamiliar with things, so I didn't dare to take you deeper into the world.

"This time, now that you've gained familiarity and our numbers have grown, not to mention we're still in dire need of materials like iron ore, I plan to lead you all deeper into the mines for an extended exploration.

"We might step out occasionally to drop off materials, but overall, this will be a sustained mining operation. So, if anyone feels they can't handle it, let me know in advance…"

Keqing and Ganyu exchanged glances, excitement flickering in their eyes.

Their last mining expedition had left them feeling unfulfilled. This was the perfect opportunity to dive deeper, and they couldn't be happier about it.

Ningguang felt the same.

Though they were few in number, the yield from their mining efforts easily rivaled what hundreds of workers might produce over a span of ten days or more.

I'm fine with it," Ningguang said, nodding first. "I had anticipated this outcome before leaving, so I arranged for Baifeng and the others to handle administrative duties temporarily. Granny Shan is also on hand to supervise things."

Keqing chimed in, "Same here. There isn't much pressing work on my end right now. Honestly, nothing compares to the excitement of mining in your world."

Ryen turned to Ganyu last, who was smiling sweetly, her eyes narrowing in delight.

"Don't worry, Ryen," she said cheerfully. "Yuehai Pavilion recently expanded its team, so I no longer have to oversee every little thing. I'm completely free for this!"

With everyone confirming their availability, Ryen felt reassured.

As for Zhongli and the others, there was no need to even ask.

Cloud Retainer, being a recluse, would probably be thrilled to stay in the MC world full-time.

Xiao only needed to purify lingering evils occasionally, which wasn't a time-sensitive task.

Moreover, Xiao had mentioned to Zhongli yesterday that the MC world had something that could suppress karmic debt.

Zhongli likely wished he could keep Xiao in that world indefinitely for the sake of his well-being.

As for Zhongli himself?

If he disappeared for two days, Hu Tao would probably be ecstatic.

After all, during his absence, the funeral parlor would rack up bills again. Hu Tao would likely need to sell a few more coffins just to break even.

Once everyone confirmed their readiness, Ryen snapped his fingers.

In an instant, a shimmer of starlight began to gather behind him.

Cloud Retainer, witnessing the creation of the dual-portal for the first time, was utterly captivated by the sight.

The others, however, were already used to it.

"While the portal finishes forming, let me quickly explain something," Ryen said, turning to the group with a smile.

"When we get inside, Keqing, your first task is to harvest the crops from the manor's farm and the sky island garden. Zhongli, I'll need you to butcher four pigs and four chickens. Ningguang, your job will be to craft some stone tools, mainly pickaxes—we'll need plenty of them.

"As for Xiao, the usual—you're on lava duty."

These were tasks they'd already grown familiar with the day before, so everyone agreed without hesitation.

However, Ganyu looked at Ryen expectantly.

"What about me, Ryen?" she asked softly.

"Of course, I haven't forgotten you, Ganyu," Ryen said, smiling as he reached out to pat her head affectionately. His tone softened as he added, "There's a special job only you can handle—accompanying me to clear out the monsters in the mob farm. With your luck, I'm sure you'll help me collect some amazing loot."

"W-Well…"

Ganyu's ears turned a shade of red as she lowered her head slightly, her voice barely above a whisper. "I-It's not that special, but… I'll do my best and go with you."

Having assigned Ganyu her task, Ryen noticed Cloud Retainer gazing at him with anticipation.

After a moment's thought, he spread his hands and said, "As for you, Cloud Retainer, you'll accompany everyone and observe for now. With your abilities, I'm confident you'll quickly master the crafting recipes and survival skills.

"Also, let's see if you can actually fly in this world. Being able to fly would be quite important for us."

Cloud Retainer, clearly pleased with Ryen's praise, lifted her head proudly.

"Oh, there's one more thing—I almost forgot."

Suddenly, Ryen clapped his hand against his forehead. Under the curious gazes of the others, he said lightly, "I've unlocked a few new special features. Once we're inside, I'll explain them and let you all test them out."

"Special features?"

Zhongli's curiosity was piqued. He had a feeling something truly fascinating was about to unfold.

"Could you elaborate?"

By this point, the dual-portal had fully stabilized.

Ryen motioned for everyone to follow him, a mischievous smile playing on his lips.

"It's nothing too extraordinary," he said, his tone teasing. "Just communications, teleportation… and a new mod, that's all."

"A mod?!"

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