Ningguang's Instructions?

Afterward, Lumine and Paimon left the New Century Comics Store and headed to the Liyue Bank. As soon as Childe noticed their arrival, he quickly approached them.

"Traveler, you finally made it," Childe said with a pleased expression.

Seeing Childe's joyful face, Paimon couldn't help but feel puzzled. "Childe, did you wait for us here for a long time?"

"Traveler, Paimon, don't you realize it's already late?" Childe's expression faltered upon hearing Paimon's words.

Goodness, does Paimon have no sense of time? Doesn't she know it's already late in the night?

After hearing Childe's words, Paimon finally noticed that it was indeed getting late. She felt embarrassed and said, "Um... sorry about that. After we came back, we went to the New Century Comics Store and read some manga."

"Uh..."

Childe felt somewhat speechless by Paimon's words. Are manga more important to her than this? Well, it seems that reading manga can earn rewards, so it might be more important than what I have here...

"Alright, Traveler, let's not dwell on that. I have a friend who has been waiting for you for quite some time. Since you've arrived, let me introduce you," Childe said.

"Your friend? It's not a member of the Fatui, is it?" Lumine became wary as soon as she heard about Childe's friend.

"No need to worry, it's not a member of the Fatui. The person is a resident of Liyue, a guest of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor, Mr. Zhongli," Childe assured them.

Originally, Childe intended to create some suspense, but he didn't expect Lumine to be so cautious. Thus, he had to explain further.

"Mr. Zhongli? I've heard about him from Mr. Owner. If it's really Zhongli, then it would be nice to meet him," Lumine said.

"But don't deceive us. If we find out you lied, huff, Lumine won't let you off!" Paimon warned with a smirk.

"Haha, Traveler, if there's a chance, I'd love to have a little spar with you," Childe laughed upon hearing Paimon's words.

However, his gaze toward Lumine was filled with a desire for battle. After all, Childe enjoyed sparring with others, as it allowed him to absorb combat experience.

"Let's leave that for another time, Childe. Let's go and meet this Mr. Zhongli together," Lumine suggested. "Even Mr. Owner mentioned that Zhongli is the person who knows the most about Liyue's history. If we meet him, we might be able to gather some information about my brother."

"If there's any news about my brother, then I'll finally know where to find him."

"Wow, it's the Liuli Pavilion! It represents the highest level of Liyue cuisine! Moreover, the owner intentionally opened the restaurant here in Feiyun Slope to directly compete with the Yuehai Pavilion, which represents Yue cuisine!" Lumine's eyes widened when Childe brought her and Paimon to the Liuli Pavilion.

"When it comes to good food, Paimon finally acts like a good guide at a time like this," Lumine commented, unable to hold back her sarcasm.

"Don't say that. Anyway, there's good food! Lumine, let's go in quickly," Paimon eagerly urged.

"Hehe, both of you, this is a gathering that I have arranged, a... what they call a 'banquet' in this country," Childe explained as they arrived outside the Liuli Pavilion.

"By the way, we haven't officially had a meal together," Lumine and Paimon followed Childe and stood outside the restaurant.

At the entrance, there stood a man and a woman, the man wearing glasses. As soon as they saw Childe's arrival, the man stepped forward.

"It's an honor to see you again, Childe. The restaurant flourishes under your patronage. The private room is ready, and Mr. Zhongli is waiting for both of you," Childe informed them.

The three of them entered the Liuli Pavilion and arrived at a private room. Childe opened the door and saw a handsome man pouring tea and preparing to taste it.

As soon as Childe entered, he greeted Zhongli, saying, "Hey."

Upon hearing the voice, Zhongli turned his gaze and saw Childe and the Traveler's arrival. He noticed the tea cup near his lips and then greeted the two of them.

After they were seated, Childe began introducing, "Let me introduce this person from the world of commerce, the guest of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor, Mr. Zhongli."

"A person from the world of commerce?" Lumine questioned.

"Because Mr. Zhongli is a guest of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor, and the funeral parlor is inevitably involved in certain commercial dealings, we can consider Mr. Zhongli a friend from the world of commerce," Childe explained with a smile.

"I see," Lumine responded. "In any case, I brought you here to meet Zhongli because..."

Before Childe could finish his sentence, Zhongli interjected, "Because I have a method to allow you to see the divine body of the Geo Archon."

"Huh? Wait a minute," Lumine interrupted. "Zhongli, Childe, why do I need to see the divine body of the Geo Archon?"

"That's right, I'm traveling to search for the divine, hoping to find any clues about my brother," Lumine continued. "But now that the Geo Archon is already dead, what's the point of seeing the divine body?"

"Yeah, Lumine is right. The Geo Archon has already been killed, so even if we see the divine body, it would be meaningless," Paimon chimed in.

Hearing their words, Zhongli couldn't help but glance at Childe, as if questioning why it was different from what they had agreed upon.

Childe raised his hands in a gesture of surrender and said, "Traveler, why don't you listen to Zhongli's explanation first?"

"While the Geo Archon is the progenitor of the gods, he is ultimately considered one of the divine beings," Zhongli began. "Throughout Liyue's history of thousands of years, the divine beings have gradually departed, and this is an irreversible trend."

"There are many revered names for gods, such as the God of Contracts, the God of Commerce, the God of War, Morax, the Geo Archon, and naturally, they also include 'divine beings.'"

"As you can see, the time of the divine beings is fading away, and the age of humans is gradually becoming a reality. In previous years, when each divine being departed, there would be grand commemorative ceremonies, which are part of Liyue's tradition. However, this time, even the Seven Archons were too occupied to attend to this tradition... it's truly lamentable."

Lumine pondered for a moment and then spoke up. "Childe, what you and Zhongli said is true. This is indeed a case that involves the gods and Liyue."

"The Seven Archons of Liyue are currently too occupied to investigate this matter, which indicates that they are prioritizing more important affairs," Childe added. "Traveler, if you can help in this matter and uncover who murdered the Geo Archon, the Seven Archons of Liyue will surely be grateful to you."

"Perhaps, at that time, you might become the most esteemed guest of Liyue!"

"As for me, I am an executive of the Fatui. Liyue is wary of the Fatui, especially since the murder of the Geo Archon. They have started to restrict our actions."

"In addition, Mr. Zhongli is a guest of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor, and he is occupied with preparing the funeral for the Geo Archon, so naturally, he has no time."

"But you, you are different. You are a Traveler who, while in Mondstadt, helped resolve the crisis caused by the Stormterror Dragon."

"If you can investigate the true cause of the Geo Archon's murder while in Liyue, it would also be a beneficial opportunity for you."

__________

"For the extraordinary case of the murder of a god... the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor doesn't concern itself with such matters. What they care about is, if the rituals for sending off a pure soul are so grand, who will take care of the rituals for sending off a god?" Zhongli expressed.

"Traveler, I heard about you from Childe, and since you have some acquaintance with the Anemo Archon... would you consider joining me in preparing a farewell ceremony for the Geo Archon?" he proposed.

"A farewell ceremony for the Geo Archon?" Lumine repeated. "But isn't that the concern of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor or the people of Liyue? I'm just a traveler, not a resident of Liyue..."

"I'll consider it," Lumine responded.

"Hmm, Lumine, think carefully. It seems there's no other way," Childe nodded, looking at Lumine. "Ningguang of the Liyue Qixing... she is currently preventing anyone from viewing the Archon's divine body. So, if you want to achieve your goal of visiting the Seven Archons, this might be the only option left."

"Indeed, only by participating in the 'Rite of Parting' can you see the Geo Archon's divine body again," Zhongli added.

"If that's the case, then there's no other choice," Lumine frowned, contemplating Zhongli and Childe's words. She realized that this might be the only path to see the body of the Geo Archon. Moreover, she was curious whether the Geo Archon was truly dead.

As a guest of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor and the collaboration between Zhongli, a guest of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor, and Childe, an executive of the Fatui, intrigued her.

"Well, if you agree, come with me. We can discuss the details on the way," Zhongli said, leaving the Liuli Pavilion.

Seeing Zhongli leave, Childe grinned and said, "Well, my matchmaking mission is complete. How about that? It turned out well, didn't it?"

"If you're leaving, go ahead. Don't mind me. I might have a few drinks here and familiarize myself with the use of chopsticks," Childe said.

"Paimon, let's go. Let's find Zhongli," Lumine instructed.

"Okay." As soon as they stepped out, they saw Zhongli waiting nearby.

"Traveler, after experiencing the 'City of Departed Gods,' how do you feel about Liyue, the 'Land of the Gods'?" Zhongli asked.

"I prefer the atmosphere of Mondstadt," Lumine replied.

"I see. You're that type of traveler. Well, that's also good," Zhongli commented.

"However, the history of the 'Land of the Gods' spans 3,700 years, and perhaps you haven't fully experienced it yet. The process of organizing the 'Rite of Parting' will also become part of your journey, broadening your horizons."

"Liyue is the most prosperous of the Seven Nations, with divine beings guarding it in the past, and the rule of the Seven Archons. Therefore, many of the Fatui's diplomatic methods cannot be used in Liyue."

"One of Seven Stars of Liyue, Ningguang remains wary of the Fatui. Perhaps that's why Childe sought to leverage the relationship with the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor," Zhongli explained.

"What benefits does Childe gain from us organizing the 'Rite of Parting'?" Paimon asked, crossing her arms.

"I don't know, and I don't want to know. For me, the Fatui only provides financial support. I just hope that the traditions of Liyue are not forgotten," Zhongli stated. He then took out a bag of Mora and handed it to Lumine.

"This is the initial funding provided by Childe. If you run out, you can go to him for reimbursement," Zhongli said.

"Wow, so much money!" Paimon exclaimed, her eyes twinkling at the sight of the large bag of Mora.

"Alright, let's get going. The first step in preparing the ceremony... is to acquire the highest quality Noctilucous Jade," Zhongli stated.

"Okay, let's go," Lumine replied.

____________

---- In other Place----

"Lady Ningguang, here is the intelligence regarding the Traveler," Baiwen said as he handed over the information to Ningguang.

Ningguang looked up and glanced at the information in Baiwen's hand before taking it.

"Oh, Childe from the Fatui and Zhongli from the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor... they are actually collaborating on something," Ningguang remarked. "The Geo Archon was just murdered, and the Fatui wasted no time in making their move. I wonder what role the Fatui plays in this incident. And there's Zhongli from the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor..."

"Baiwen, go and summon Yelan," Ningguang ordered.

"Yes, Lady Ningguang."

The general administration of Liyue is known for its transparency. From high-ranking officials of the Yujing Terrace to the grassroots employees of the Eight Trades, their basic information is listed in the official records. However, Yelan, who claims to work in the administration, is an exception. Most of her colleagues haven't heard of her name, and she cannot be found in the records.

This aspect of her personality aligns well with her elusive and unpredictable nature. She is like a phantom, appearing with different faces at the center of various events and disappearing without a trace before the storm settles. Occasionally, she assists one party, but just when they start feeling triumphant, her assistance quickly switches to the opposing side. Those who have suffered losses because of her can't help but grind their teeth in frustration. However, no one can decipher her intentions or determine her true allegiance.

Some speculate that she is a spy serving a mysterious force, skilled in manipulation and profiting from chaos. Others firmly believe that she is nothing more than a zealous agent of disorder, without any organization or substantial purpose. Even if there is one, it would only be to further muddy the waters, stoke the flames, and drag everyone into the mad world she creates.

Opinions about her vary, and the truth about her remains a mystery. Perhaps only Yelan herself can provide the answers. Unfortunately, that is not an easy task either. Before she wants to meet someone, they will never be able to find her.

After a while, a woman with a mature face appeared at the Qunyu Pavilion. She wore a sunset-colored cape, and the origin of the cape was a story from one of Yelan's past actions. It was a game of wits between her and the Ninth Harbinger of the Fatui, Tartaglia, or "Childe," as he is commonly known. During their encounter, it could be considered neither a complete failure nor a resounding success.

In the process, a hidden trade route of Harbinger Tartaglia in Liyue was infiltrated by Yelan's forces. During a shipment of goods, Yelan's group intercepted it, but in the process, she lost a family heirloom called the "Enigmatic Wristband." This wristband was extraordinary, containing special family techniques that could transmit sound over long distances. Originally a pair of wristbands, losing one rendered the remaining one purely decorative.

To compensate for her loss, Yelan decided to keep the most valuable piece of merchandise from the shipment, a magnificent beast cape. This cape was left behind by a peculiar creature that had died a hundred years ago and still emitted a faint fragrance, invigorating the mind. The Fatui then crafted the cape into a style that the Tsaritsa favored, based on her preferences.

After obtaining the cape, Yelan did not simply leave it as it was. She added some local Liyue hemp and modified the style, creating the cape with sleeves that we see now.

_________

"Ningguang." When Yelan entered the Qunyu Pavilion, her gaze fell upon Ningguang.

"Yelan, I have something to discuss with you and need your assistance," Ningguang said.

"Oh, what is it?" Yelan asked.

"Take a look at this intelligence," Ningguang handed the information Baiwen had given her to Yelan.

Yelan took it, sat down on a chair, and began reading. After a while, she placed the information on the table and smiled slightly.

"Really, Ningguang, you need to involve me in such matters?" Yelan questioned.

"If it were a normal situation, there would be no need to involve you," Ningguang replied.

"But ever since the Geo Archon was murdered, the reclusive adepti have been slowly approaching Liyue Harbor. According to Mr. Owner's information, a disaster is expected to occur in Liyue in the coming days. I have dispatched Beidou and others to investigate and prevent the disaster. However, we are short on manpower now, so I have to trouble you," Ningguang explained.

"A disaster? And who is this Mr. Owner?" Yelan inquired.

"Speaking of Mr. Owner, he is a very mysterious person. In his comic store, we not only have to read comics but will also get an unexpected reward," Ningguang said.

"You have seen the helicopter outside the Qunyu Pavilion, right?" Ningguang asked.

"Yes, Baiwen gave me a brief explanation," Yelan replied.

"That helicopter is what I obtained from Mr. Owner's comic store. I tested its firepower with Keqing, and I am quite satisfied with its performance," Ningguang explained.

"Yelan, after this investigation is over, I recommend that you visit the New Century Comics store and see if you can find something helpful there," Ningguang suggested.

"Alright, I got it," Yelan nodded.

"I will take charge of this matter and investigate the role the Fatui plays in it. If they truly pose a threat to Liyue, then it's up to you, Ningguang," Yelan said.

"After all, I cannot openly intervene due to my identity."

Light and shadow. Ningguang in the light, Yelan in the shadows.

"Don't worry, if the Fatui dares to do anything that threatens Liyue, the Liyue Qixing will take action," Ningguang declared.

"We, in Liyue, will not allow outsiders to interfere!"

As she spoke, Ningguang's expression turned cold.

If it were an internal conflict within Liyue, it wouldn't matter how they fought. But if this event were part of an outsider's scheme, Ningguang would make sure they paid the price.

"Yelan, please pay attention. If Fatui really does something, you can go ahead and arrest them. I will make the Tsaritsa pay a huge compensation to this Nation of ours, we will also together with the Lord of Anemo nation work together to respond to the damage to them " Ningguang said.

"Alright, I'll go now," Yelan said.

"Go ahead."

With Yelan handling the matter, Ningguang felt relieved. After all, Yelan was only investigating certain matters to uncover any hidden schemes.

"Baiwen, any updates from Beidou?" Ningguang asked.

"Not yet, Lady Ningguang..."

"What about the others?"

"No updates from them either."

"Alright, if there are any developments from Beidou or the others, inform me immediately," Ningguang instructed.

"Yes, Lady Ningguang."

"Sigh, I wonder what kind of disaster Mr. Owner mentioned will occur in Liyue in the next few days," Ningguang pondered. "Just thinking about it, I haven't been eating or sleeping well lately, and I even get occasional headaches."

After all, with the Geo Archon gone, if another major event were to occur, how would the people of Liyue perceive their current situation?

As Childe and Lumine, along with Paimon, arrived at the store selling Noctilucous Jade, Liyue's preparations for the ceremony began.

Zhongli could sense the numerous gazes around him. Although he no longer held his position in Liyue, he could still perceive everything. After all, he was the Geo Archon, Morax. No matter the size or significance of Liyue's affairs, they couldn't escape his knowledge.

The boss of "Jade Mystery" was named Shitou. When Shitou saw Zhongli and Lumine's arrival, he warmly greeted them.

"Hey, customers, welcome to Jade Mystery. How about trying your luck with a couple of uncut stones? It's cheap and fun. Maybe you'll strike it rich without even realizing it," Shitou enthusiastically suggested.

"Uncut stones? No, thank you. We came to choose... what kind of stones was it?" Paimon said, forgetting the details.

It was Zhongli who reminded them. "Noctilucous Jade. The quality should be at least Candlelight-grade."

Upon hearing this, Shitou was astonished. Candlelight-grade Noctilucous Jade? Ah, so they weren't ordinary tourists.

"My apologies, Let me fetch the goods, Please wait a moment"

Shortly after, Shitou brought over a batch of merchandise.

"Please have a look, both of you," Shitou said at Jade Mystery, we are a reputable jade store. Look at the quality! Absolutely superb. These are rare gifts bestowed even by the Geo Lord himself. Feel free to choose with confidence."

"Hmm, these three pieces of Noctilucous Jade do look beautiful, unlike the freshly excavated ones," Lumine commented. "But how should we choose? Should we pick one variety to take back with us?"

"Since Mr. Zhongli knows about stones, why don't we ask for his opinion?" Paimon suggested.

"Oh? Do you want me to decide?" Zhongli responded.

If it were up to me, the answer is actually quite simple...

"Well, what's the answer?" Paimon asked eagerly.

Zhongli looked at the boss and uttered a statement that left Lumine and Paimon shocked.

"Boss, I'll take them all."

Even the shop owner, Shitou, was taken aback. However, he quickly wore a delighted expression. "Very well! Esteemed sir, I could tell from the start that you were extraordinary. To think you would be so generous—"

"Wait, wait! What he said doesn't count! Let's discuss it again!" Paimon hurriedly waved her hand, signaling the boss to pause.

"Paimon, if the occasion only requires one variety, then buying all three would be a waste of three times the Mora, wouldn't it?!" exclaimed Lumine.

"Paimon, you're not good at math. This would actually waste these two types of stones wouldn't it," Lumine corrected.

"Um... Lumine, I was talking to Zhongli, and you interrupted. It's basically the same thing, if we buy all three types at once we need more Mora to pay, right" Paimon replied.

Hearing Paimon's words, Zhongli fell into contemplation. "Mora... well..."

"You're right. I didn't consider this aspect earlier. It was an oversight on my part," Zhongli admitted.

Upon hearing this, Paimon glared at Zhongli in anger. "Huh? How can you make a purchase without considering Mora?!"

"If we have to consider Mora in everything we do, then it's like being constantly restricted by Mora," Zhongli explained.

"???" Lumine and Paimon were left dumbfounded.

"Mora is a natural currency, but a currency is not inherently Mora," Zhongli continued.

Paimon still couldn't understand Zhongli's words. It was Lumine who spoke up at this moment. "Zhongli is referring to economics."

"Economics? So this is the concept of economics," Paimon realized. "But since Zhongli said it like this, then he must be very rich, right?"

"Is he the kind of person who never worries about 'small change'?" Paimon asked.

"Don't be shaken. Even if Mora restrains me, I still have ways to solve problems while bound," Zhongli reassured them.