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[Genshin Impact] Chapter 433: Elemental Technology - The Steam Engine (2-in-1 Chapter)
🕑 Added 2025-03-20 17:26:49 +0000 UTCAnother enchanting and passionate night had passed.
The next morning, Nolan rose from the warm and soft embrace of Lisa and Jean.
This time, he wasn’t suddenly pulled into the “Plane of Euthymia” by Raiden Ei.
After a quick wash and breakfast, he learned from Lumine that she was still in the "Meditation Room," being questioned by Makoto about Inazuma.
For now, there was no opportunity for Ei to teach Nolan and Lumine the “Musou no Hitotachi.”
Since that was the case, they had to postpone their swordsmanship training and focus on other tasks.
Lumine and Paimon planned to head to the Adventurers’ Guild in Inazuma to accept commissions and go on an expedition.
Meanwhile, Nolan followed his own plan, preparing to return to Liyue to meet with Yelan. He had mentioned this to Keqing last time, and by now, she should have spoken to Yelan about it.
He also wanted to check on the progress of the “Sweet Flower Merchant Association” and see if Ningguang had finished rebuilding the Jade Chamber.
There was a lot to do.
### Liyue Harbor – Wangsheng Funeral Parlor
As usual, Nolan teleported directly to Hu Tao’s side. Upon hearing that he was heading to the Merchant Association, the Funeral Parlor Master regretfully told him that she couldn’t accompany him.
The Wangsheng Funeral Parlor was about to open branch offices in other cities, and as the master, she had to personally oversee the operations.
With that settled, Nolan had no choice but to visit the “Sweet Flower Merchant Association” alone.
On the way there, he noticed that the number of people riding bicycles on the streets had increased several times compared to last time.
It seemed that the company’s latest product had truly taken off in Liyue.
That also meant his and Lumine’s dividends would continue to grow!
Before long, Nolan arrived at the “Sweet Flower Merchant Association” in high spirits. Just as he was about to check if Ningguang was around, her secretary, Bai Xiao, informed him that Ningguang was currently in the research department.
Apparently, the “steam engine” he had mentioned to her last time had made significant progress.
Hearing this, Nolan’s face lit up with excitement.
Without hesitation, he headed straight for the research department, which was located just two hundred meters behind the main building.
It didn’t take long to get there.
Upon arrival, he saw a large group of workers in uniforms gathered in the courtyard of the research facility.
As he approached, he realized they were surrounding a massive machine, roughly the height of a person. Pipes and gears were exposed on its exterior, yet they were arranged in a structured and aesthetically pleasing manner.
It had a distinct steampunk vibe.
Beside the colossal machine stood several middle-aged researchers, also dressed in work uniforms. The leading figure among them was a woman who appeared quite excited.
It wasn’t hard to guess—this machine was undoubtedly the result of her and her team’s research.
Nolan mused thoughtfully.
“Lady Ningguang, this is the steam engine we developed based on the ideas you provided.”
The middle-aged woman enthusiastically introduced the machine to Ningguang, explaining,
“It operates by heating water in a high-pressure boiler with Pyro energy, generating steam. The expanding steam is then converted into mechanical power to drive a piston in a reciprocating motion.”
She still couldn’t fathom how Ningguang had conceived such an ingenious transmission system.
The basic principle of a steam engine was easy to understand, yet few would have thought of using something as mundane as steam in this way!
It was truly remarkable.
Even in the prestigious Sumeru Akademiya, where she had studied, most so-called geniuses would never consider that something as light and insubstantial as steam—floating like mist—could be harnessed for such immense power.
“Well done.”
Ningguang, dressed in her elegant qipao, crossed her arms and gave a slight nod.
“Although it’s much larger than I originally envisioned, you still managed to produce a functioning prototype in a short period. Iterate on the design a few more times and develop an industrial-grade steam engine.”
The current model was still far from what Nolan had described—one powerful enough to drive locomotives, trains, or ironclad warships.
Perhaps she should recruit more scholars in this field to speed up the research process.
“Yes, Lady Ningguang! We will not let you down!”
The researchers responded in unison.
“Good. This is a significant breakthrough, so you’ll all receive bonuses. Additionally, you may take three days off at a time of your choosing.”
Ningguang understood well—if she wanted people to dedicate themselves fully, she had to offer tangible rewards.
So she never hesitated to grant Mora and vacation time as incentives.
“Thank you, Lady Ningguang!”
The researchers erupted into cheers.
Having witnessed the successful creation of the first steam engine, Ningguang now had to start preparing plans for its practical applications.
That way, by the time the researchers developed an industrial-grade steam engine, she would already have everything in place—ready to implement the technology immediately and maximize efficiency.
“Hey, Ningguang!”
Seeing that the Tianquan Star was finally free, Nolan called out to her.
“Oh? What brings you here? It’s not dividend payout day yet.” Ningguang greeted him with a slight smile.
“Uh… Do I really seem like the type to only show up when there’s money involved?” Nolan replied with a helpless expression.
He continued,
“I actually came here today to share more scientific knowledge from the world I once lived in.”
“Heh, looks like I misjudged you.” Ningguang’s crimson eyes glimmered with a hint of playfulness. “Come with me—shall we discuss it over morning tea at Xinyue Kiosk?”
“Oh? Since the esteemed Tianquan Star is treating, I suppose I have no choice but to accept.” Nolan said with mild surprise.
### Liyue Harbor – Xinyue Kiosk
In a luxurious private room on the second floor, the two sat across from each other. Ningguang crossed her right leg over her left, took a sip of tea, and said:
“Well, what new business opportunity do you have to share with me this time?”
“Hmm.”
Nolan nodded lightly. After a moment of thought, he said:
“If the Pyro element can be used to enhance the power of a steam engine, then naturally, other elements should have similar potential as well.
“In the world I once lived in, electricity was an even cleaner and more efficient energy source compared to fire.
“It could accomplish most of the same things as fire, but with just a single wire. I believe they should be developed simultaneously.”
He proceeded to explain the various applications of electricity on Earth to Ningguang.
From the simplest electric lights to powerful railguns, orbital satellites, and even interstellar spacecraft, he provided a brief introduction to each.
Nolan hoped to push forward the development of elemental technology in Teyvat, ultimately reaching a level where interstellar travel was possible.
With the existence of elemental energy, such an achievement didn’t seem too far-fetched.
“Heh, satellites that can observe an entire planet and ships that can sail across the sea of stars… That’s hardly something that can be developed in a short time.
“But the railgun you mentioned—now that piques my interest. Tell me more about it.”
Ningguang was only slightly surprised by his words, but she quickly focused on what would be most practical for Liyue.
A weapon comparable to the Guizhong Ballista, yet far more cost-effective—naturally, as the Tianquan Star, this intrigued her greatly.
If Liyue had railguns, the nation would become even more independent. Even when facing enemies on the level of Archons, they wouldn’t need to rely on the Adepti.
“Alright, I’ll explain its basic principles. I’m not an expert in the finer details, though.”
Nolan briefly described the mechanics of a railgun—a concept anyone with basic physics knowledge would understand.
The railgun’s barrel consists of two parallel conductive rails with a solid metal projectile placed in between. When an electric current is applied, it generates a powerful magnetic field.
The interaction between the magnetic field and the projectile creates an electromagnetic force, propelling the projectile forward at incredible speeds.
The velocity of the projectile depends on the strength of the current—the greater the current, the stronger the magnetic field, and the more force exerted on the projectile.
Thus, increasing the current enhances both speed and destructive power.
Although Liyue’s technological level was not high, the existence of Electro elemental energy made railgun development even simpler than on Earth.
After all, there was no need to worry about electricity supply at all.
Perhaps even a powerful Electro Vision wielder, like Beidou, could grasp the concept and conjure a railgun with her own hands.
“Not bad. I’ve noted down everything you said. I’ll have my people conduct experiments on it soon.”
A faint smirk appeared at the corner of Ningguang’s lips.
She hadn’t expected that Nolan’s visit today would bring her so many valuable ideas.
[Ningguang Has Developed Good Feelings Toward You. Obtained 380 Affection Points. Current Affection Level: Lv.7 (580/700)]
Seeing the notification pop up on his character panel, Nolan realized that Ningguang’s affection toward him was already nearing Level 8!
And once it reached Level 8, Level 10 wouldn’t be too far off.
When her affection maxed out, would he be able to say to her, “Your money is my money”?
Becoming the richest man in Liyue overnight, with an endless fortune at his disposal… It wasn’t entirely impossible.
Though, to be honest, maybe he could already do that. A affection level close to 8 was incredibly high. If he reached out to hold Ningguang’s hand right now…
She might just tighten her grip in response.
Cough… Maybe he was getting ahead of himself.
He was the type to let women enjoy luxury, not the type to depend on them for it.
As for hand-holding and beyond… He’d wait for the perfect moment.
Nolan suddenly thought of something and turned to Ningguang, asking,
“By the way, Ningguang, I’d like to find Yelan and learn some stealth techniques from her. Last time, I asked Keqing to pass on a message for me.
“But I haven’t heard back yet. Do you know where she is?”
“Hmm, Yelan is the owner of the ‘Teahouse Above the Rocks.’ If you’re looking for her, you can try checking there.”
Ningguang rested her fair cheek against her sleeve-covered hand, gazing at Nolan with a slight smile.
“However, she left for The Chasm a couple of days ago on a mission. If it’s you, I can arrange for a pass to let you in to find her.
“How about handling some of the issues at The Chasm while you’re at it?”
“The Chasm… Yelan went there? If I remember correctly, that’s one of Liyue’s most important mining areas. What kind of problem has arisen there?”
Nolan asked in confusion.
He recalled from the original story that The Chasm had become infested with a strange, sludge-like substance that harmed people and empowered monsters, making them more aggressive and irrational.
Because of this, mining operations had been temporarily halted.
Yelan was likely there to investigate the phenomenon and see if a solution could be found.
“It seems you’re quite knowledgeable. The Chasm is indeed Liyue’s primary mining area, but it has been sealed off for several months due to these issues.”
Ningguang parted her soft lips and slowly explained the situation, which was mostly in line with what Nolan already knew.
“For ordinary citizens and adventurers, The Chasm is far too dangerous right now. But for someone like you, it shouldn’t be much of a problem.
“If you want to find Yelan, I’ll give you a way to contact her.”
Ningguang took out an amber-colored gemstone and continued,
“Yelan has a matching gemstone. When you reach The Chasm, knock this gemstone against the rock walls—it will emit a nearly undetectable resonance wave.
“Only Yelan’s gemstone will be able to receive the resonance, allowing her to track you down.”
“That’s quite convenient.”
Nolan accepted the amber gemstone—naturally, he had no reason to refuse Ningguang’s request.
Besides, since The Chasm was crawling with monsters, it would be a great opportunity to farm some EXP.
“I appreciate it.”
The closure of The Chasm had been a major headache for Ningguang.
The rising prices of minerals in the market were one thing, but the unemployment of the miners was a more pressing issue. The problem needed to be solved as soon as possible.
[Ningguang Has Developed Good Feelings Toward You. Obtained 220 Affection Points. Current Affection Level: Lv.8 (100/800)]
“No need to be so formal,” Nolan replied with a light chuckle.
“When do you plan to leave? I can have Ganyu accompany you. I have a feeling that the situation at The Chasm isn’t as simple as it seems.”
Ningguang wasn’t entirely confident about sending Nolan alone.
The Chasm had once been a battleground for the Geo Archon and other deities—there was always a chance that some lingering threats from the past could resurface.
“Miss Ganyu, huh? She’s incredibly powerful. With her around, it’ll probably feel like a sightseeing trip rather than a mission.”
Nolan joked lightly.
“There’s no time to waste. I think I can set off right now—there’s still plenty of daylight left.”
With the decision made, Nolan and Ningguang left Xinyue Kiosk and headed toward Yujing Terrace.
On the way, he asked about the reconstruction of the Jade Chamber.
He learned that the main structure had already been completed, with only the final finishing touches remaining. It seemed that Shenhe’s task of setting up the protective formations would soon be finished as well.
Before long, Nolan and Ningguang arrived at Yujing Terrace.
At that moment, Ganyu was buried in paperwork, handling various reports.
Her head bobbed up and down sleepily, showing clear signs of severe sleep deprivation.
It made one wonder whether she could even perform her duties properly in this state.
Nolan and Ningguang stepped into Ganyu’s office, but she didn’t notice them right away. It took her a second or two before she suddenly jolted awake and looked toward the doorway.
“Ah! Ningguang! And Mr. Nolan! You… you should’ve knocked before coming in…”
A faint blush appeared on Ganyu’s fair cheeks.
Ugh… They saw me nodding off while working… If I had known this would happen, I wouldn’t have worked overtime until morning…
(End of Chapter)
