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"He... he is Marcius?!" Ruota's voice was incredibly dry and trembling. "How... could he become like this?!"

The huge impact made him even forget to lower his voice, causing Xiangling and Guoba in the distance to look over here in confusion.

Ruota covered his mouth slightly with embarrassment and waved to Xiangling and the others to indicate that nothing was wrong.

Zhongli nodded slightly, his gaze still gently fixed on Guoba, watching it happily calling "Lulu" because of Xiangling's compliment.

"It was my old friend, Marcosius. After the Demon-God War, he voluntarily fused his strength and wisdom into the mountains and rivers of Liyue to nourish all things and keep the fire burning in the land, in order to help the war-torn people of Liyue rebuild their homes."

"Its divine power was exhausted, its form degenerated, and its memory faded. Now, it's called 'Guoba', a companion to Xiangling and an indispensable member of Wanmin Hall."

Zhongli's tone was calm, as if he was stating something very natural, but it contained deep understanding and respect for his old friend's choice.

"Look at it..." A faint but real smile appeared on Zhongli's lips.

"Although I no longer have the divine powers and memories of the past, my original intention to protect the people and help them cook delicious food remains. With Xiangling by my side, I walk the streets and alleys, tasting all the flavors of the world, free from worries."

"Isn't this a kind of perfection? Letting go of burdens, returning to the ordinary, finding freedom. This smile is its truest form now."

Chapter 61: Relief on the Mountaintop, Gifts from the Group

Ruota was silent. He did not move, but his eyes followed Guoba's figure closely.

He watched it clumsily but diligently fan the fire for Xiangling, watched it jump up and down from the heat after sneaking a bite of freshly-cooked meat, which made Xiangling laugh, watched its pure and satisfying "lulu" sound...

Shock, astonishment, disbelief... all kinds of complicated emotions surged in Ruota's heart, but in the end, they gradually settled into an indescribable feeling... relief and emotion.

Yeah…Marcosius chose his path.

The power dissipated, the divine power was gone, but in another way, it was more directly and warmly integrated into the lights, daily necessities of thousands of homes.

Looking at Guoba's carefree and lively appearance, feeling the pure joy in it, I compare it to my own painful years of sleeping for a thousand years, being worn down and tortured...

Ruota let out a long, silent breath, as if he was also exhaling the depression accumulated in his chest.

"I see... It's good to be alive! It's good to be alive."

He slowly turned his head and said no more. He just picked up the cup of black tea that Zhongli had just refilled for him and nodded very slightly in Zhongli's direction.

That action contained thousands of words - recognition of the old friend's current situation, being touched by this "ordinary" happiness, and a sigh for his own long past.

He really didn't need to refute anything.

Zhongli received Ruotu's silent response and raised his glass in response.

The atmosphere between the two of them became increasingly quiet and tacit, amidst the aroma of tea and the rich aroma of food wafting from afar.

Zhongli seemed to be concentrating on sipping tea and appreciating the scenery, but in fact, his mind was also distracted by the lively chat group.

At this moment, the trend in the group changed again.

[Bengtie·Danheng]: "@[Original God·Ying], Ying, I've received the 'Xuanshu Formation Code'. After a quick glance, I find the contents are detailed and the system is complete. It will be of great benefit to the Taibushi in researching basic formations such as spirit gathering and birth promotion, saving countless efforts in deduction."

[Bengtie Danheng]: "This item is precious. Danheng is only borrowing it temporarily. Once Taibu Si has mastered its essence, I will return it in its original form. As a token of my gratitude, I have deposited 2000 spirit stones in the group warehouse for everyone to use in cultivation or array experimentation. Thank you again!"

His speech was rigorous and sincere.

[Genshin Impact·Ying]: "Dan Heng is so polite. I'm glad you could help me. Feel free to use the book. I'll put it in our group warehouse so everyone can learn from it. We can share the spirit stones. No need to thank me."

[Juequ Zero·Ling]: "Wow! 2000 spirit stones! Dan Heng is so generous! Thank you Sister Ying for the book! My brother and I are still exploring our fruit abilities, and it feels like controlling the power of ice is so difficult! But it's super interesting!"

[Juequ Zero·Ling]: "I think my brother and I can set up a stall in the summer. He'll be in charge of the barbecue, and I'll be in charge of providing cold drinks. We can definitely keep the costs to a minimum, and then we can make a lot of money!"

[Bengtie·Xing]: "Great idea! Be sure to call me when the time comes. I also want to try the barbecue made with super powers. How about it?"

[Bengtie·Xing]: "Hey! That's not right! My flame spear can also be used as a furnace, and Sanyue can also make ice. And there's also Danheng, the master of perfect theory. It's obvious that we have the advantage!"

[Bengtie·March 7]: "Ah! Enough of you! Don't drag Danheng and me into everything!"

San Yue Qi felt that he was probably sick. He had the kind of disease that whenever he saw Xing's iconic remarks, he couldn't help but want to rush up and cover her mouth to prevent her from saying those abstract remarks.

Even if Sanyueqi really covered Xing's mouth, it would not stop Xing from letting herself go in the group.

After a round of joking, the topic returned to the main track.

[Bengtie·Xing]: "For the great gains made by all our members, I would like to thank Ying! Thank you Dan Heng! Long live the Spirit Stone! Long live the Formation Code! Long live Pam's Metaphysics!"

[Pam scatters flowers.jpg]

[Bengtie·Xing]: "By the way, Paimon, can your Paimon Star flex its muscles a bit?"

[Star's eyes.jpg]

[Genshin Impact·Paimon]: "Star! Don't mention Paimon's Star, I'm going to get mad!"

[Bengtie·Xing]: "What?! My name is Xing! Your name of Paimon Star is infringing on my reputation! Why don't you let me see it?"

[Lost Star.jpg]

[Bengtie·March 7]: "Pfft, Paimon, don't be angry~ Actually, if you look closely, your Paimon Star... Yeah! It's definitely very powerful! It makes me feel very safe!"

【Bengtie·March 7】: "By the way, what did Mr. Zhongli draw?"

[Pam is curious.jpg]

March Seven was trying hard to change the subject to avoid Xing saying anything that would upset her.

[Genshin Impact·Zhongli]: "Thank you for your concern. This time, besides this can of otherworldly black tea, I also found a visualization method, 'The Method of Illuminating My True Self,' which can enlighten the mind and correct one's nature, as well as a Soul Puppet that can nourish the remaining soul. I may find other uses for this item. I also found a tiger talisman that can harmonize the mixed energies within the body, which is quite useful."

[Genshin Impact·Zhongli]: "I have copied several copies of the 'Method of Illuminating My True Self' and placed them in the group warehouse. If you are interested, please read and study them. This method clarifies the mind of Tao and reveals the true self, which may be beneficial to one's cultivation. However, this method also has its shortcomings. It does not contain offensive techniques."

[Bengtie·Xing]: "Wow! Mr. Zhongli is so generous! Pam's metaphysics is truly unmatched! I can't fall behind! @[Bengtie·Danheng], Teacher Danheng, how about we also copy a few copies of 'Fire Dance Tornado' and 'Ice Heart Sutra' and put them in the warehouse? Good things should be shared!"

[Bengtie Danheng]: "No problem. The Ice Heart Art calms the mind and may help stabilize it. I've copied it and stored it in the group repository. The Fire Dance Whirlwind sword technique is exquisite. Xing, since you've already learned it, I'll trouble you to copy it."

[Bengtie·Xing]: "No problem! Leave it to me! Hehe, everyone in the group will be able to dance like a whirlwind in the future. Just thinking about it is spectacular! Sanyue, why don't you come and praise me!"

March did come to praise the stars, but the "praise" was offline.

[Juequ Zero·Ling]: "Thank you, Mr. Zhongli! Thank you, Danheng! Thank you, Xing! You're all so kind! (?o?o?)? This is a cultivation method, it feels so powerful! My brother and I want to learn it too!"

[Genshin Impact·Paimon]: "Even though Paimon may not be able to learn...thank you all for sharing! Paimon will cheer you on!"

[Genshin Impact·Ying]: "Paimon, you just don't want to use your brain, right?"

[Genshin Impact·Paimon]: "No! Paimon just...just feels that the power of food is more suitable for me!"

[Genshin Impact·Zhongli]: "Thank you all for your kindness. Sharing and helping each other is the natural thing to do."

[Genshin Impact·Zhongli]: "Right now, Xiangling and Guoba are nearing the end of their feast of otherworldly beasts. We'll share this delicious feast with everyone later, so you can savor this exotic flavor together."

Zhongli's speech was as calm as ever, and he also gave a preview of the upcoming feast.

[Zero Bell]: "A giant beast from another world?! How big is it? What does it taste like? I'm kind of curious."

[Genshin Impact·Paimon]: "Ah?! There's still delicious food? I'm so stupid, seriously! I shouldn't be so greedy, I won't be able to eat all the new delicacies later!"

Chapter 62 Katsina sacrificed?

Although Paimon was looking forward to the upcoming feast of alien monsters and his mouth was watering, this anticipation was quickly interrupted by the reality.

Marani excitedly came to find Ying and Paimon, wanting to take them to experience sea fishing.

As soon as the three of them walked out of the Liuquan people's camp, they met Turnina who was rushing over.

"Hey! Marani! Just now, our team that went to the "Night Watch War" has returned." Turnina's voice was a little breathless, and it seemed that she had run a long way.

"Really? That's great!" Marani and Paimon cheered at the same time, and Ying also showed a relieved smile.

The news of victory is always exciting.

Malani then asked, "Where's Katsina? Is she back too?"

However, Tunina's next words were like a bucket of cold water: "It is... Katsina... who unfortunately died in the final battle."

"What?!" The smiles on Ying and Paimon's faces froze instantly, and their hearts seemed to be gripped by a cold hand.

Paimon's face turned pale, and tears instantly filled his eyes. "Katsina... died? How could it be..."

Ying subconsciously clenched her fists. The Nata girl who was full of energy in the arena and called her "Master"... was sacrificed?

Fortunately, Tu Nina didn't have the habit of breathing heavily, so she continued speaking quickly.

"But don't worry! According to Nata's traditions and rules, after winning the Night Watch War, we will hold a "Resurrection Ceremony" for all the fallen warriors in the Holy Flame Arena! Katsina will definitely come back!"

"Resurrection ceremony? Resurrection?" Paimon's tears were still welling up in her eyes, but her mouth opened into an O shape in surprise. This turn of events was a little bit difficult for her brain to process.

Ying's tense nerves relaxed a little, but the heaviness in her heart did not completely dissipate.

Sacrifice... Resurrection... Nata's rules are indeed magical, but they are also a bit cruel.

"Yes, Lord Vulcan will personally guide the hero's soul back." Tu Nina nodded affirmatively. "The ceremony will begin soon. Remember to hurry to the Sacred Flame Arena!"

Malani understood Katsina very well. "It's good to win. After all, it's your first time participating. Facing a cunning enemy, it's inevitable that you will make mistakes."

Tu Nina was also very happy: "Yes, I believe Katsina will be able to hold her head high this time!"

Afterwards, the three of them had no time to care about anything else and immediately set off for the Holy Fire Arena.

On the way, the atmosphere was a little silent.

Ying couldn't help but ask Marani and Tu Nina more about the abyss, about the war, and about sacrifice.

Marani's expression grew serious. She gazed towards the distant Holy Fire Arena and said slowly, "Ying, Paimon. In Nata, we fight to stop fighting, and we sacrifice to stop sacrificing."

"This is a belief that has been etched in our minds for generations. Every Nightwatch War, we hope it will be the last, that the threat of the Abyss can be completely quelled..."

"Katsina's sacrifice was also for this goal."

This sentence touched Ying and Paimon deeply.

They had heard of and witnessed too many sacrifices: Vanessa of Mondstadt, the Thousand Winds soldiers of Liyue, the resistance of Inazuma...

To protect what is precious, someone has to step forward. Malani's words accurately capture the weight and depth of this profound feeling.

While rushing on the road, Ying quickly shared the situation briefly in the chat group.

[Genshin Impact·Ying]: "We may not be able to attend the Beast Feast. We have an emergency. The Night Watchman War in Nata is over. We won, but Katsina died in the battle."

[Genshin Impact·Ying]: "We're currently heading to the Sacred Flame Arena to participate in Nata's 'Resurrection Ritual'. It's said that winning the 'Nightwatch War' will allow the fallen to be resurrected. We won't know the details until we arrive at the scene."

As soon as the news came out, the group exploded instantly.

[Zero Bell]: "Sacrifice? Resurrection?! Oh my god! Is Katsina okay? Is Nata's ritual so powerful?"

[Bengtie·Xing]: "Resurrection from the dead?! Is this true?! This is too amazing! Even more direct than abundance?!"

[Bengtie Danheng]: "...subverting the rules of life and death. This is no small matter, and there must be extremely strict restrictions or costs involved."

[Bengtie·March 7]: "How could it be... Katsina looks like a very good child! Ying, Paimon, don't worry, we will definitely be able to revive Katsina!"

[Pam, come on.jpg]

[Genshin Impact·Zhongli]: "Nata's 'Resurrection Ritual' relies on the unique leylines of the 'Night God Realm' to rekindle and resurrect the souls of the deceased. It's a unique mechanism used to combat the invasion of the Abyss, and only Nata can wield it. Trust this generation's God of Fire; she's quite good."

[Zero Zhe]: "Mr. Zhongli is right. Ying, Paimon, focus on the present and trust in the rules of Vulcan and Nata."

[Genshin Impact·Paimon]: "Thank you everyone! We're on our way!"

[Genshin Impact·Paimon]: "Marani just said something very philosophical. Paimon thought it was absolutely brilliant! 'Fight so that you won't fight again, sacrifice so that you won't sacrifice again.' I never thought Marani, who looks like a lively young woman, actually has such a profound understanding of the world."

[Bengtie Xing]: "Fighting is to stop fighting, sacrificing is to stop sacrificing... That's a really good saying! This saying is mine! I need to think about how I can use it later."

[Pam Contemplating.jpg]

[Bengtie Danheng]: "Perhaps it is because of so much experience that one can have such insights. This is the voice of a guardian."

[Zero Ling]: "Well! Don't be afraid, Paimon, Katsina will definitely come back! Waiting for your good news! By the way, we will definitely save the best part of the exotic beast feast that Mr. Zhongli mentioned for you!"

[Bengtie·March 7th]: "Yes, yes, yes! Leave one for Katsina too! Celebrate her safe return!"

[Genshin Impact·Zhongli]: "Exactly. This beast is too huge. It will be difficult to defeat it without Paimon's help."

[Genshin Impact·Zhongli]: "If there is anything you can't solve, please feel free to call me."

Seeing the warm comfort and support from their group members, Ying and Paimon's anxious mood calmed down a lot and gained more strength.

They no longer paid attention to the group, but focused on speeding towards the Holy Flame Arena.

The Olympic Flame Arena was already packed with people, and the atmosphere was warm and solemn.