Chapter 2: Obtaining the Gnosis—Ascending to the Level of a Demon God
Zhongli's question made Aiden pause for a moment, deep in thought. He recalled the systems of governance in his previous world before replying:
"First, establishing a comprehensive system of oversight—one that allows both the Adepti and you, Zhongli, to maintain control.
"If problems arise, those who deserve punishment should be punished. Corrupt officials should have their assets seized. And those who pose a threat to the nation's stability should be eliminated.
"Second, building a strong education system—ensuring that everyone, regardless of background, has the right to receive a quality education.
"Third, implementing a fair and structured promotion system. No individual or group should be allowed to monopolize positions of power."
As Aiden spoke, Zhongli's golden eyes gleamed with interest. He had believed in humanity's ability to govern itself, yet hearing these ideas made him reconsider his original plans.
Perhaps his method of stepping away entirely was flawed.
---
With a contemplative sigh, Zhongli glanced at the Gnosis in his hand. Then, without hesitation, he tossed it toward Aiden.
"If it is for the protection of Teyvat, then I am willing to offer this. I hope it proves useful to you."
Aiden caught the floating Gnosis and, without delay, pressed it against his chest.
A surge of Geo energy erupted from his body, thick and imposing. Even Zhongli, an Archon, instinctively turned his gaze toward him.
The aura wasn't as refined as Zhongli's, yet it was undeniably powerful. In an instant, Aiden had ascended to the level of a Demon God.
Can a Gnosis really grant such a transformation? Zhongli wondered.
However, this level of energy release would certainly attract unwanted attention. Without hesitation, Zhongli extended a hand, releasing his own Divine Authority to suppress and contain the energy, preventing it from leaking out.
After a moment, Aiden opened his eyes, a slight smile on his lips.
"Interesting…"
---
"Oh? It seems you've gained quite a bit." Zhongli observed him curiously.
Aiden nodded. "Give me a moment. I need to construct something."
Closing his eyes, he concentrated. Moments later, a notification window appeared in Zhongli's mind:
> Welcome to the Teyvat Chat Group—A Community United in Harmony!
Zhongli blinked, momentarily caught off guard.
As the Geo Archon, Morax, he had experienced countless battles, forged countless contracts, and wielded the wisdom of millennia. Even though his strength no longer matched that of the original Heavenly Principles, he remained one of the strongest beings in Teyvat.
Yet, Aiden had silently established a direct connection to his consciousness.
Was this the authority of the new Heavenly Principles?
But soon, Zhongli realized—this was not a method of control. Rather, it was an act of sharing power. Similar to how the Tsaritsa distributed her strength among the Fatui Harbingers.
Aiden's voice interrupted his thoughts.
"This is a manifestation of my power. Through this system, you—and others—can purify the power of the Abyss, as well as lingering remnants of Demon Gods.
"However, using this ability will consume your own strength."
---
Zhongli's heart stirred.
Consuming my own strength?
That was insignificant. Power could always be replenished. But if he could eliminate the lingering curses of the Demon Gods and suppress the Abyss, it would be of immeasurable benefit to Liyue.
Long ago, in the Archon War, he had slain countless rival gods. Their lingering hatred and resentment still poisoned Liyue's lands.
Certain areas remained uninhabitable because of their lingering energy, restricting Liyue's expansion.
If these remnants could be completely erased, Liyue's growth would no longer be limited.
---
"Additionally," Aiden continued, "if you purify these corrupted forces, the energy will transfer back to me—allowing me to grow stronger as well.
"I will keep track of the number of Abyssal creatures, Demon God remnants, and corrupted entities you eliminate. Based on your contributions, I will grant you points, which you can then use to claim rewards.
"For instance, you can use these points to lessen erosion."
Zhongli immediately focused at the mention of erosion.
He had spent thousands of years watching his own strength diminish due to erosion.
"Wait," Zhongli narrowed his eyes, "what if I want to remove erosion from someone else?"
He was thinking of an old friend.
"If you have enough points, you can remove erosion from anyone," Aiden replied nonchalantly. "Even the **Dragon King, Azhdaha, is no exception."
Zhongli's expression hardened.
If that were true…
Then this was a chance—perhaps the only chance—to save an old friend.
---
"But from the way you speak," Zhongli mused, "it sounds as though you plan to allow others to participate in this system.
"Are only gods and Adepti included? Or will you extend this invitation to ordinary mortals as well?"
"The latter," Aiden confirmed. "Even those who hold only a Vision will receive benefits.
"I can enhance their elemental abilities, increase their energy regeneration, refine their control over their power, and even improve their physical strength and speed."
He then added with a smirk, "And in time, I plan to introduce an entirely new power system."
Zhongli raised an eyebrow. "A new power system?"
"Yes," Aiden nodded. "The system of Visions is deeply flawed.
"I'm sure you're aware—when a Vision wielder dies, their Vision is left behind. And while the electrocuted corpses of fallen warriors may be poetic to some, I find the system unnecessarily cruel.
"I have no intention of restricting the flow of Visions, but moving forward, I will focus on developing other power systems that do not rely on Celestia's control."
Zhongli tapped his fingers against his armrest in thought.
If what Aiden claimed was true, then all of Teyvat would be reshaped in the coming years.
Liyue must seize this opportunity…
---
"Wait a moment," Aiden suddenly said. "I need to run a few calculations."
Zhongli watched as Aiden closed his eyes, deep in concentration.
His greatest gain from acquiring the Geo Gnosis wasn't just his newfound Demon God-level power.
It was something far greater.
With the Heavenly Principles' authority, combined with the power of the Gnosis, Aiden now possessed the ability to deduce and construct.
It was how he had created the Teyvat Chat Group in an instant.
And now, using that same ability, he was analyzing and developing an entirely new cultivation system—one designed for humans.
The stronger humanity became, the stronger he would become.
This was Aiden's true purpose.
And that was why he needed to deepen his alliance with Zhongli.
Because soon…
Teyvat was about to change forever.