Book 6: Contracts of the Earth

by Fir100

Zeo, Akira, and their team arrives at the nation of Liyue in order for Aether, Lumine and Miriam to gain powers of the Geo Archon along with witnessing the Rite of Descension to meet the Archon. However, many trials lie ahead for our heroes that could change the nation forever. Will our heroes be able to overcome those trials in the land of contracts?

3. Farewell, Archaic Lord

Book 6: Contracts of the Earth

Chapter 3: Farewell, Archaic Lord

---

Liyue, XDR Base

Nighttime

As nighttime arrived in the world of Teyvat, our heroes are now currently resting inside their new Liyue base provided by Ningguang and the Liyue Qixing after visiting the adepti and reporting to Ningguang. Afterwards, the group (except for Jean since she's currently with Ningguang providing assistance) shared information about the adepti's response upon hearing the news of Rex Lapis' death. Zeo also revealed Team XDR's secret to Moon Carver, along with Akira gaining a new form change thanks to the adeptus. After that, they had their dinners and showers before bedtime, except for Zeo and Akira who are now contacting Genjuro and Theresa via Zikan Phone video call about the events that happened so far.

"I see… it's regrettable that the Fatui gained the Geo Gnosis before we do." Genjuro remarked on the holo-screen, calling from S.O.N.G HQ.

"Though do they really have to dump the body at the Rite of Descension like that? Are they sending us a message or something?" Theresa questioned on another holo-screen, calling from the Knights of Favonius HQ.

"I don't know. I never expected the Fatui to pull off a move like that in front of a crowd." Zeo replied.

"Regardless, they must have a powerful harbinger in their ranks if they can kill an archon." Akira stated. "We need to be prepared if we face that harbinger in the future."

"Agreed." Theresa nodded. "Speaking of preparation, at least Aether, Lumine and Miriam were able to use Geo now."

"I've already prepared videos of earth elemental users on YouTube. Show them these if you're able." Genjuro requested.

"You got it, chief." Zeo replied. "Anyway, how's Gaius doing in the Blaster Master world?"

"I didn't get any contact from him and his team yet, but I'm sure he'll be fine." Genjuro replied back.

"I hope so. Though he's not gonna be happy once he hears the news on Rex Lapis' death."

"Anyway, since the Geo Gnosis is already taken, will you go to Inazuma next for the Electro Gnosis?" Theresa asked.

"Not yet, apparently." Akira replied. "Beidou's willing to use her ship to take us to Inazuma, but she's going to be busy assisting Ningguang with the Rite of Parting to give Rex Lapis a proper farewell."

"There's also the path to Sumeru, the nation of the Dendro Archon, by traversing through The Chasm." Zeo added. "However, that place is out of bounds at the moment until further notice. Though there will be a time when Ningguang will ask us to investigate the place."

"I see." Theresa noted. "Guess that means we've hit a roadblock for Teyvat."

"If that's the case, then your team are to return to the Symphogear world once you're done with the Rite of Parting." Genjuro instructed.

"Understood." Zeo replied as he and Akira nodded.

"Everything okay in Mondstadt, Theresa?" Akira asked.

"A little busier than I thought, but I can manage." Theresa replied. "Good thing Maria, Kallen and Regina are there to help me out. And I'm grateful to Lisa, Amber, Kaeya and Eula for showing how the Knights of Favonius operate." She then sighed in annoyance. "Klee's being a pain in a butt though despite her young appearance. Wanna guess why?"

"...Fish blasting lakes again?" The Naotoras guessed with a deadpanned expression.

"Yep." Theresa confirmed with the same expression. "Anyway, how's Jean doing?"

"Busy with Ningguang. But at this rate, we should be able to gain an alliance with the Liyue Qixing." Zeo informed.

"That, and we've already secured an alliance with the adepti. Though they'll only provide our aid during extreme threats." Akira added. "And uh… we kinda revealed our secrets to one of them, just in case they discover a Gjallarhorn fragment. Moon Carver didn't find one during his roaming, but maybe the other adepti might."

"I see. Guess the dimensional scavenger hunt in Teyvat is gonna take a while." Theresa noted before yawning. "I think that's enough for today. Ugh… now I'm starting to feel what Jean's been through as the Acting Grand Master. I wonder when Grand Master Varka and the rest of his knights will return?"

"Who knows." Zeo shrugged. "Well I guess we can end our report here."

"Indeed. Have a good rest, everyone." Genjuro replied before the holo-screens vanished.

Zeo let out a tired sigh while putting away his Zikan Phone.

"What's wrong?" Akira asked.

"I know we're bound to lose main objectives, but witnessing it in person felt really different compared to video games." Zeo replied.

"Oh, that. Yeah, I get what you mean. Still, we're bound to make mistakes in order to improve ourselves. And using time travel to fix those mistakes is never a good idea."

"True. It will affect future events either good or bad. So it's basically a gamble."

"You're right about that." Akira nodded… before blinking a few times. "...I just realized that we forgot to mention Huang Lingyin."

In response, Zeo slapped his forehead. "Goddamnit…"

"We'll tell them another time. But right now…" Akira began to yawn. "I think we should sleep now. We have plenty to do tomorrow."

"Yeah, let's call it a night." Zeo replied as the two head for the bedroom to get some sleep.

---

Liyue, Team XDR Base

The next day…

Once morning arrived, the team had their usual bathing and breakfast before meeting at the living room. But before they could start the meeting, Jean arrived.

"Good morning, everyone." Jean greeted.

"Morning, Jean." Zeo greeted back.

"Hope you managed to get some sleep last night while you're assisting Ningguang." Akira added.

"Don't worry, I was able to get enough rest." Jean assured. "Oh, and about the alliance with the Liyue Qixing, it's been accepted in a contract. But it needs one important thing." She took out said contract. "She wants one of the founders of the team to sign and stamp it to solidify the alliance."

"So it's either me or sis?" Zeo guessed, earning a nod from the Acting Grand Master.

"Was the contract necessary, dess?" Kirika questioned as Akira took the contract from Jean.

"We are in the land of contracts after all, so this is important." Fu Hua pointed out.

"Anybody got a pen and stamp lying around the base?" Kanade asked the group.

"Oh, don't worry." Jean replied, taking out the pen and stamp from her pocket. "Yanfei also gave me these, just in case."

"Wow, Yanfei-san came prepared." Miku remarked.

"Well, let's get it over with." Zeo declared, taking the pen and stamp from Jean while Akira placed the contract on the table. After reading the contents of the contract, he wrote his full name and signature, and stamped onto the contract after letting out a puff of air from his mouth onto the stamp. "Alright, all done." He then returned the items to Jean.

"I'll only take the contract. You can leave the pen and stamp here." Jean said, taking the signed contract. "On that note, Ningguang immediately wants to see you, Akira, Aether and Lumine. You too, Paimon."

"Huh? What's the meeting all about?" Paimon asked.

"Ningguang will tell you once you meet her personally." Jean replied.

"So I'm guessing we'll head for her office on Yujing Terrace?" Aether guessed.

"Actually, she's at her other office: the Jade Chamber."

"For real?!" Rin gasped. "The floating structure high above Liyue Harbor?! That Jade Chamber?!"

"You know about that place, Rin?" Lumine asked.

"Xiangling told me about it during my Liyue stay. When I saw the flying structure, it's huge. Practically the size of a mansion that would make Cecilia jealous."

"Wow, that's some structure right there." Kiana remarked. "And Ningguang owns that structure?"

"Her and the Liyue Qixing. And only members of the Qixing or VIPs can gain access to it."

"VIP?" Miriam repeated.

"Very Important People." Chris clarified.

"Oh, that. Forgive me, I didn't know most acronyms."

"Oh, no wonder you looked confused." Paimon noted.

"By the way, you can bring other people along if you want to, Zeo." Jean said.

"In that case…" Zeo turned to the group. "Kiana, Fu Hua, Miriam, Rin, you four are joining us."

"Wait, really?!" Rin gasped.

"Mhm." Zeo nodded. "Gotta make your stay in Liyue more special."

"Then how can I say 'No' to that. I accept!" Rin smiled.

"So what about the rest of us? We still need to help prepare the Rite of Descension." Kanade asked.

"Well I did hear about a place called the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor from Ningguang, lead by Director Hu Tao. Maybe you can ask her to help with the preparations." Jean suggested.

"Oh, that girl. Xiangling mentioned her a few times since she visited her restaurant for meals… and sometimes pranks." Rin recalled. "That, and she's a Pyro Vision Bearer who's good with a spear, just like Xiangling."

"A funeral parlor director who's also a prankster… why does that sound scary?" Chris questioned.

"C-Chris-senpai!" Kirika shuddered.

"Relax, baka. She's not that scary."

"I never met Hu Tao yet, so I can't tell how she acts. But if she's the director, then I'm sure she knows what she's doing." Rin commented.

"Then it's decided." Kanade said. "Chris-chan, Kirika-chan, we're paying Hu Tao a visit!"

"You got it./Okay, dess…" Chris and Kirika replied, with the latter feeling a bit of unease.

"No need to be afraid, Kirika-chan. At least you won't have to visit Hu Tao alone." Miku said.

"What about you, Miku?" Akira asked.

"I think I'll stay at the base with Noelle-san and Elfnein-chan to do some chores. Oh, and Hibiki? After your meeting with Ningguang-san, could you go and get some books and groceries?"

"No problem, Miku." Hibiki replied.

"Right then…" Zeo clasped his hands. "Let's get to work!"

"See you back at the base later tonight!" Kanade said as everyone left the base, leaving behind Miku and Noelle.

"Take care of yourselves!" Noelle said to the group leaving.

"Ugh…"

The sound of groaning earned the attention of the girls. "Oh, good morning, Elfnein." Noelle greeted the arriving young scientist.

"You've just missed the others, they've already left." Miku added. "I guess you were working on that Trans Server for a while now. Did you at least get a good rest?"

"I did, thanks for asking." Elfnein replied, rubbing her eyes. "Can I get something to eat?"

"Of course." Noelle replied before heading to the kitchen.

"So how was the progress on the Trans Server?" Miku asked.

"I should be able to finish it by today." Elfnein replied. "But I can finish earlier with some assistance."

"I think I can do that. But you need to eat first before resuming your work. And also a shower."

Elfnein took a moment to sniff at herself. "Good point. I'll be back in a moment."

"Take your time, Elfnein-chan." Miku replied as the young scientist went to take a shower.

---

Liyue Harbor, Yujing Terrace

After they arrived at the city, the team went their separate ways with Kanade's team heading for the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor while Zeo's team head for the meetup point at Yujing Terrace plaza where Keqing is waiting. They also noticed upon arrival that Rex Lapis' body had already been moved and replaced with a praying censer.

"Ah, there you are. Good morning." Keqing greeted the arrivals. "How's your new base?"

"It's pretty good, though it could use a few sprucing up to make it more like home." Zeo replied.

"I see. You should be able to find what you need in the city's marketplace, but do that after the meeting."

"So how do we get to the Jade Chamber?" Paimon asked.

"Follow me." Keqing replied, escorting the group to a man named Bu'yun, who's standing in front of a floating stone platform with green crystals below it. "Excuse me, do you sell the moon here?" She asked the man.

"Yes." He replied. "How many would you like?"

"It is not convenient to speak of numbers here."

"Ah, well said." Bu'yun noted. "Welcome Keqing, Master Jean, and esteemed guests. You must be here for an audience with Lady Ningguang, correct?"

"Only them." Keqing gestured to the group. "I was only escorting them here. After that, I have other business to attend to."

"Of course." Bu'yun nodded.

"Umm…" Hibiki raised her hand. "Keqing-san, why did you ask him about selling the moon?"

"Oh, that's actually a secret code in order to gain entry to the Jade Chamber." Keqing explained.

"How clever." Jean remarked. "Using a secret code in order to prevent uninvited guests or intruders from infiltrating."

"Maybe you should use that method for Mondstadt, Jean." Fu Hua suggested.

"Hmm… perhaps I shall during secret meetings." Jean replied.

"Oh, Rin. Before I forget." Zeo took out a magenta and black Zikan Phone. "Here, your very own Zikan Phone as proof of joining the team."

"Thanks, Zeo!" Rin replied happily, taking the phone.

"Sorry if we didn't make one for you too, Keqing." Miriam apologized.

"What are you talking about?" Keqing winked, showing off her own Zikan Phone in a purple color scheme, which surprised the group. "I have one right here."

"Huh?! When did you get that?!" Kiana exclaimed.

"Since yesterday thanks to Yanfei and Elfnein, along with the enhanced Wind Glider. She also gave the phones and gliders to Ganyu and Ningguang."

"Wait, Ganyu had a Zikan Phone this whole time?!" Rin exclaimed.

"She got the phone after you and your team left, Rin." Keqing pointed out.

"...Ah, okay. That makes sense."

"Well then, I'd better not keep you guys waiting. Have a good meeting, everyone." Keqing bowed before leaving.

"See you later, Keqing!" Lumine waved.

"Now then, everyone please step on the platform." Bu'yun gestured to the platform. "It will take you to the Jade Chamber. Just remember to watch your step and never look down until reaching the destination."

"Thanks for the warning." Aether replied as he and the others leaped onto the platform. Afterwards, the platform began its ascent.

---

Jade Chamber

Moments later, they arrived at the Jade Chamber which is the size of a large mansion, making the group respond in awe. They also noticed several secretaries and Millelith soldiers around the area, with Ningguang waiting at the mansion's front door.

Upon noticing the team's arrival, Ningguang approached them as they stepped off the platform and greeted with a martial artist gesture. "Welcome to the Jade Chamber, Xross Drive Rebellion, Master Jean."

"Good morning, Ningguang." Jean replied as she and the others greeted back with the same gesture. She then took out the signed contract. "Oh, and here's the signed contract for our alliance."

"Thank you." Ningguang replied, taking the contract. "So, what do you think of this floating palace?"

"It's something, alright. Pretty amazing, too." Aether replied.

"It's my first time coming to a place this high up." Lumine remarked.

Ningguang chuckled in response. "I'm glad you liked it. This palace floats in the skies, higher than the peak of any mountain. From this vantage point, one may survey all of Liyue."

"How are you able to build something like this?" Fu Hua asked.

"I have been gathering the funds necessary to build it from the time I began learning the merchant's craft." Ningguang explained. "And since becoming the Tianquan, I have spared no effort in hiring the best craftsmen to constantly extend it. At first, it was but the size of one room. Now, it is large enough to blot out the moon in the skies above Liyue. One day, I believe it will overshadow all seven nations."

"Wow. Gotta admit, this Tianquan's got one heck of an ambition." Zeo thought.

"Not many from outside of Liyue earn the right to ascent to the Jade Chamber. However, considering your recent actions so far, including the ones in Mondstadt which Master Jean mentioned, I'm granting you permission to step foot onto the chamber."

"Thank you for this honor, Lady Ningguang." Kiana replied as she and the others bowed.

"You're welcome." Ningguang smiled back before heading for the door. "Come, we have much to discuss."

"Of course." Jean replied as the team followed after the Tianquan.

---

Once inside, the group were in awe at the interior of the chamber with the halls having a gold or amber color scheme with patterns, multiple offices, a few staircases, and several secretaries performing their duties.

"Wowee! What a huge hall! Paimon's never seen such a fancy place before…" Paimon commented while looking at the interior.

"Make yourselves at home, everyone. We are friends after all." Ningguang said. "And when friends come over to play, our enjoyment comes first, naturally."

Soon after, they reached Ningguang's office as she sat behind her desk. Before Ningguang could speak, Rin noticed something on the wall. "Lady Ningguang, is that the legendary wall from the storytellers I heard in Liyue?" She asked. "From what I've heard, everyone wants to have a piece of paper from that wall."

"I see you've kept your ear to the ground, Rin." Ningguang replied, looking at the wall. "This wall records the secrets of Liyue. Merchants have always been attracted to secrets."

"Hmm… no wonder that wall is special." Miriam noted.

"Indeed." Ningguang nodded before facing the group. "Anyway, good work yesterday for notifying the adepti about the incident before the Fatui do. This should keep our peaceful relations with them stable."

"You know, things would've been different if Paimon and Aether didn't meet the Rebellion." Paimon remarked. "Paimon would've suggested running away after seeing Rex Lapis' death."

"That would be a horrible idea." Fu Hua stated. "The Millelith would think that you and Aether were the suspects, even though you didn't perform the assassination, forcing you two to go into hiding."

"Yeah… glad we didn't have to go through that scenario." Aether remarked, rubbing the back of his neck.

"Just remember to have a calm mind and think things through first." Lumine advised.

"I'll be sure to remember that, sis." Aether noted.

"Same goes for Paimon." Paimon also noted.

"Have you ever heard about the Archon War?" Ningguang asked the group.

"Umm… Rings a bell." Aether replied.

"I don't know much about it." Lumine added.

"Neither do we." Akira also added. "Otherworlders, remember?"

"Many gods used to walk this earth, and many long wars were fought between them that did not abate until 2,000 years ago. Much blood was shed, and many lives were lost." Ningguang explained. "In the end, only seven victors remained standing in Teyvat. They build cities and nations on the corpses of the vanquished, and thus began the era of The Seven."

"So that's how The Seven were known." Kiana noted.

"You can see Guyun Stone Forest from here, I trust?" Ningguang asked.

"Well I did see a rock formation at a far distance during our ascent to the Jade Chamber." Rin mentioned.

"It is no natural rock formation. Those are giant spears of rock, hurled by Rex Lapis during the war. Beneath the spears lie those cast down by Rex Lapis in those days: gods that failed to seize the title of Archon. Not only is it true that gods may die, but so too has the membership of the Seven changed over the last two millennia. Rex Lapis' passing is an unimaginable disaster for Liyue, but the order of The Seven will not collapse simply because of that. Another Lord of Geo will arise sooner or later, yet how are we to forget Rex Lapis? When that time comes, the relationship between the people of Liyue and the gods and adepti will surely be different from before. Even in the new era, the Liyue Qixing remain Rex Lapis' former subjects. Do you really think us capable of having played a part in his demise? Of lacking the foresight to see the certain repercussions?"

"No." Hibiki shook her head. "There's no way you and the Qixing would betray your archon."

"Exactly." Ningguang nodded. "Thank you for telling me that, Hibiki Tachibana."

"By the way, we noticed that the Exuvia is no longer at the plaza." Lumine mentioned.

"Correct. His body was already transferred to the Golden House yesterday night under the watch of the Millelith. They're currently guarding it from the outside and inside in case its location is discovered."

"Good to know Rex Lapis' body is kept safe and guarded well." Aether noted.

"However, we must not let our guard down." Ningguang stated. "Our enemy has long lain hidden within the harbor. If we do not act against them now, they will surely gain the upper hand. Hiding the Exuvia was a necessary maneuver to take the initiative back, to play the spider while our foes scurry about."

"Wait a sec." Zeo interrupted. "Why are the Fatui still performing their mission? I thought they took the Gnosis already and left for Snezhnaya?"

"It seems they have another plan up their sleeves." Ningguang frowned. "They've been dispelling rumors about the Qixing's usurpation of power, thinking that we've killed Rex Lapis. This is why the Exuvia is kept hidden in the Golden House to stabilize the situation, and also to prevent something similar to the incident in Mondstadt. And yes, that incident also involves the Anemo Archon Barbatos being attacked by a Fatui Harbinger."

"I'm just glad you guys are there at the right place and time to prevent Barbatos' Gnosis from being taken." Jean said to the team.

"We were just lucky, that's all." Akira replied.

"With Rex Lapis' death, the Fatui have busied themselves with many clandestine actions beyond their diplomatic remit." Ningguang stated. "As the Tianquan, one responsible for Liyue, I cannot be too concerned with appearances when opposing them. Preparing the Rite of Parting was also meant to buy some time for us to take control of Liyue's administration."

"Ah, so that's why." Zeo noted. "Way to think ahead, Ningguang."

"I appreciate that compliment, Zeo Naotora." Ningguang smiled.

"By the way, what do you think of Keqing-san since she's a bit skeptical about the divine?" Hibiki asked.

"I originally thought her a bit too... hard-headed." Ningguang answered. "With someone of her character on the Qixing, I've had some extra messes to clean up behind the scenes. But after she said those words: "The time of the adepti has long passed. If even the Liyue Qixing don't want to face that truth, then what future is there for Liyue..." Well, I must say that quite a few of my doubts have been dispelled."

"Considering what happened yesterday… yeah." Kiana replied before smiling. "But you know what, I think you and the Liyue Qixing can take good care of Liyue without Rex Lapis."

"Thank you, Kiana Kaslana." Ningguang smiled back.

"Oh! Oh! Can Paimon say something real quick?" Paimon raised her hand. "Paimon was wondering if we can have one of those sheets on that legendary wall!" She pointed at said wall.

"Seriously, Paimon? Seriously?" Aether facepalmed while Lumine shot an unamused glare at the familiar.

"D-Don't look at Paimon like that!" Paimon retorted. "One of these sheets of paper will sell for crazy prices, even if it's only as large as Paimon's fingernail! Just imagine... how much Mora a whole, untorn sheet would sell for!"

"Oh great, the familiar's a money hoarder." Zeo mentally deadpanned.

"Lady Ningguang?" Miriam asked.

"Very well, you're free to take only one of those sheets as a token of my appreciation." Ningguang approved.

"Yay! Paimon was just waiting for you to say that!" Paimon cheered before flying to the legendary wall and looked around. "Let's see here…" She then noticed a large sheet on the wall and pointed at it. "Okay, let's go with that one! The largest one! Now let's see what's written here…" She took a closer look at the chosen sheet. "There's a place marked with a circle on here… "Sigil… of Permission…" Mm-hmm and... "Fatui... research… copy… "...Huh?"

The group's eyes widened after hearing what Paimon read. "Let me see it." Fu Hua then approached the wall and examined the sheet. "Lady Ningguang, how were you able to discover something like this?"

"You can thank my intelligence agent Yelan for that." Ningguang replied. "She was able to give a report on that location yesterday."

"I see." Fu Hua noted with her hand on her chin. "So from the looks of the writing, the Fatui are making copies of the Sigil of Permission. Did Yelan obtain those copies yet?"

"No, she only gave a report instead to avoid detection from the Fatui."

"In that case, allow us to investigate that site for ourselves." Fu Hua requested.

"You have my permission, Fu Hua." Ningguang approved.

"Good." Fu Hua replied, taking a photo of the sheet with her Zikan Phone before turning to the Naotoras. "Zeo, Akira, care to join me?"

"I think you know my answer by now." Zeo smirked, punching his open palm.

"We're in." Akira added.

"What about us?" Aether asked.

"I think it's better if it's only the three of us investigating." Fu Hua answered. "You guys can take it easy for now."

"In that case, I'm heading for the Adventurers' Guild to look for a commission involving Wangshu Inn and its broken wooden walkways and staircases." Kiana said.

"Ah, that. I was hoping for any adventurers to accept that commission, but for some reason, no one volunteered." Ningguang said. "I assume they went for the treasure and monster hunting ones instead."

"...Selfish jerks…" Kiana muttered before turning to the Shardbinder. "Miriam, wanna come along?"

"I have nothing to do at the moment so, sure. I'll join you." Miriam accepted.

"Ah!" Hibiki slammed her open palm with her fist in realization. "I still need to do my grocery run at the marketplace, along with buying some books to read!"

"Let me help you with that, Hibiki." Rin offered. "I'll be able to find the things you need since I know Liyue Harbor like the back of my hand."

"Arigato, Rin-chan! You're a lifesaver!" Hibiki thanked with gratitude.

"I think my brother, Paimon and I will look for some antiques to make our base more fancy." Lumine said.

"Sounds good." Aether nodded. "I think there's an antique store somewhere in Feiyun Slope."

"Oh! Hopefully we can find something good there!" Paimon beamed.

"Anything you want me to do, Ningguang?" Jean asked.

"At the moment, no." Ningguang replied. "But I think you should assist Ganyu for today with the rite preparations."

"Understood." Jean nodded.

"Well Lady Ningguang, we'll be leaving now. Wish us luck." Zeo said as he and the team performed a martial artist's bowing gesture.

"May fortune bless you all in your travels, Xross Drive Rebellion." Ningguang replied with the same gesture before the team left the area.

---

Chihu Rock

As Zeo's team, Jean, and the twins travelers and Paimon went their separate ways, Hibiki, Rin, Kiana and Miriam went to Chihu Rock with the former two doing their grocery run for tonight's dinner back at their base, and the latter two heading for the Adventurers' Guild to accept the Wangshu Inn commissions.

Speaking of the latter two, they met a familiar face standing behind the guild's reception counter. "Katheryne?!"

"Ad astra abyssosque, travelers." Katheryne greeted with a bow. "How may I help you?"

"Weren't you supposed to be in Mondstadt?" Miriam asked.

"What are you talking about? My place is always here." Katheryne replied.

"...Oh, I get it now." Kiana gently slammed her open palm with her fist in realization. "You must be from a family with identical sisters that looked just like you."

"Is that so?" Katheryne tilted her head.

"It's my only assumption why you look just like the Katheryne from Mondstadt."

"If you say so."

"Kiana, we're only here to ask for commissions for Wangshu Inn, not talk about Katheryne." Miriam reminded.

"Fine…" Kiana sighed before facing Katheryne. "Do you have any commissions involving Wangshu Inn?"

"As a matter of fact, we do." Katheryne confirmed. "It involves repairing the wooden staircases and walkways."

"We'll take it." Kiana replied with Miriam nodding.

"Then please offer up your Adventurer Handbooks and I'll pin the commission onto them." Katheryne requested.

Kiana and Miriam gave the handbooks to Katheryne before she went inside the guild to pin the commission.

"Ugh… you again. Look, I told you, we're not interested in the kind of cooperation you describe."

A conversation earned the attention of the two where on their left, they saw the female Guild Branch Master named Lan, talking to a girl with bright scarlet eyes with white, blossom-shaped pupils; faded red makeup painted at the corners of her eyes; and long dark brown hair fading to crimson at the tips. Her hair is styled into two high twintails parted with a zig-zag pattern. Her bangs are side-swept to her left, the layers framing her face curled inwards and the layers behind curled outwards, with two shoulder-length locks of hair in front of her ears left loose. She wears a black porkpie hat emblazoned with a wooden talisman, adorned with a red plum blossom branch in bloom, along with an indigo tassel tied in a looped knot.

Her outfit consists of a traditional red shirt with a mandarin collar, a brown coat with a darker collar and sleeve cuffs, and black shorts with gold accents. Her Pyro Vision is embedded in the back of her coat, along with long rectangular coattails, and golden brooches attached underneath her coat's collar and waist. She wears a pair of mid-calf length white socks, red straps with plum blossoms wrapped around the cuffs, along with low-heeled black dress shoes. Her fingernails are painted black, and she wears multiple rings: one on her left ring finger, one on her right thumb, and one on each of her index and middle fingers. Lastly, she wears a loose red bracelet on her right hand, hidden under her long sleeves.

"Come on, there's no reason to get upset." The twintailed girl insisted. "Look, one of your members is an avid supporter of my proposition!"

"I… uh… have to agree with Hu Tao on this one." Kanade said, who was tagging along, alongside Chris, Kirika, and a man named Meng.

"Maybe hear her out for a moment, dess?" Kirika added.

"Huh, so that's Hu Tao." Kiana thought, glancing at the twintailed girl.

"I never expected the director of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor to be that young." Miriam also thought before looking at Kanade, Kirika and Chris. "But why are they following her like they're her assistants?"

"Since our last negotiation, I've come up with a new proposal, which I think you'll find has far more benefits for you." Hu Tao said. "First things first, Wangsheng Funeral Parlor will prioritize the Adventurers' Guild requests above all others. You'll also receive 100 of our signature wooden coffins for free, together with your first order."

"100 free coffins?!" Kiana, Miriam, Kanade, Chris and Kirika mentally exclaimed.

"That's not all! We also provide an on-site cadaver collection service covering almost all regions in Liyue. Now, we do charge a slight premium for a very small number of especially dangerous areas, but... but don't you worry about that, I promise you it's still very affordable!" Hu Tao finished with a giggle, making everyone else sweatdrop.

"Why is this girl the director again?!" Chris mentally exclaimed.

"I don't think you're hearing me…" Lan sighed in annoyance.

"Okay, alright. I get it, you want to bargain a little more." Hu Tao noted. "But our offer as it stands is already quite a good deal, don't you think? Just think about it. An adventurer's life is full of unexpected threats. It's only natural to take precautions. "Mend the roof before it rains," as they say."

"...I think asking her for help with the rite might've been a huge mistake." Kanadementally sweatdropped.

"Yeah... no. I'm not so sure that saying applies in this context." Lan answered to the director in an unamused expression. "Speaking of precautions, I'd rather focus on keeping my adventurers safe in the first place. It's time for you to go. I have to attend to other matters." Afterwards, she walked away.

"Wait, hold on! Wh—What would you say to a group discount!? Thirty percent off for parties of ten!" Hu Tao insisted.

"Hu Tao, for the love of Rex Lapis, give up already." Chris bluntly stated.

"I sadly have to agree with Chris, Director." Meng said. "You did your best, though."

"(I think Hu Tao's trying to sell them the funeral parlor's services, dess.)" Kirika whispered to Kanade.

"(Yep.)" Kanade agreed before sighing. "(This is getting us absolutely nowhere.)"

"Aiya, nothing left to do here. Let's go back to Wangsheng Funeral Parlor." Hu Tao said as she and the others went back to the funeral parlor, not noticing Kiana and Miriam hearing the whole conversation. "Hmph, rejecting a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It's their loss. Some things are inevitable. It's only a matter of time."

"...Why does that sound so dark all of a sudden?" Kiana questioned.

"I… don't know how to answer that." Miriam sweatdropped.

"Thank you for waiting. The commissions have been pinned." Katheryne informed, returning the handbooks to Kiana and Miriam.

"Thanks." Kiana replied as she and Miriam put away the handbooks.

"We'll be leaving now. Wish us luck." Miriam bowed before she and Kiana left the area.

"Of course. Ad astra abyssosque." Katheryne bowed back.

---

Feiyun Slope

Meanwhile, the twin travellers and Paimon are searching for an antique shop to look for something nice to decorate their Liyue Base. However…

"Sorry to disappoint, but Xigu Antiques are only open on evenings." A Millelith soldier informed.

"Oh, well that's a shame." Aether replied.

"Might I suggest trying out Mingxing Jewelry instead? You might find something suitable for your home decoration."

"Well… it's better than nothing at least." Paimon shrugged.

"Thanks for the suggestion, sir." Lumine bowed to the soldier.

"Anytime, travelers." The soldier bowed back. "By the way, if you're free, perhaps you could pay your respects to the late Rex Lapis? He was suddenly assassinated yesterday during the Rite of Descension."

"We already knew that. We were there yesterday." Aether replied.

"I see. Not to worry, the Millelith and the Liyue Qixing will catch the murderer and bring him to justice."

"Paimon wishes you luck on that." Paimon said.

"Thank you. Now if you'll excuse me, I need to go back to my patrol. Safe travels." The soldier bowed before leaving.

"Well, I guess we'll go to the jewelery store instead." Aether said.

"Or maybe we can go and help out with the Rite of Parting." Lumine said. "We don't have any other plans lately until tomorrow."

"Excuse me, did you just say something about helping with the Rite of Parting?"

The three turned their attention to the one speaking from behind and approaching them, revealing to be a tall man with short ginger hair, dull blue eyes and a red mask pulled off to the left side of his head.

"And you are?" Aether asked.

"Childe. You can call me Childe." The man introduced. "Hey, I know you three! The twin travellers and their floating companion, right?"

"You know about us?" Lumine responded in surprise.

"Yep. I heard news about Mondstadt about the heroes who stopped Stormterror and the missing sibling being found."

"Wow, word travels really fast even in another nation?" Paimon remarked.

"You can thank the Adventurers' Guild for that. Anyway, if you're planning to help with the Rite of Parting, I think I can give you a hand. I'm about to have a meal with a colleague of mine from the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor at Liuli Pavilion. If anyone can provide how to do a proper parting ritual, it's him. Oh, and his name is Zhongli, by the way."

"Zhongli, huh?" Aether responded.

"So what do you say? Wanna take my offer? Though if you have other plans today, we can schedule a meeting for tomorrow." Childe offered.

"Hmm… could you give us a moment to think about it first?" Lumine requested.

"Sure, take your time." Childe replied, prompting the twins and Paimon to move a few steps away to think properly.

"Well? What do you guys think?" Lumine asked.

"It's kind of unexpected for someone to offer something like this." Aether remarked.

"Paimon thought Kanade's team had that part covered with the funeral parlor director." Paimon also remarked.

"Hmm… I'm not sure if we could trust that guy. And judging from his attire, he's definitely from another nation." Lumine said.

"Not to mention that mask on his head seems awfully familiar, but Paimon can't remember what." Paimon added.

"So what should we do, sis?" Aether asked. "Maybe call Zeo and Akira first?"

"I would, but they're busy with the investigation with Fu Hua and I don't want to disturb them." Lumine replied.

"So Paimon guesses that means we'll take Childe's offer and go with the flow?" Paimon deduced.

"Yes, but remember to stay cautious about him. You'll never know if that guy might be linked with the Fatui or the Abyss Order." Lumine answered.

"Right." Aether and Paimon nodded before the three approached Childe.

"Okay, we'll take your offer." Aether decided.

"I was hoping you'd say that." Childe smiled. "Now then, let's not keep Zhongli waiting." Afterwards, he began escorting them to the Liuli Pavilion. "Huh, well that was easy. I was expecting them to refuse my offer considering how perceptive the Rebellion can be. Or maybe they're just playing along to see what happens? Either way, let's see where this goes."

---

Liuli Pavilion

"Sorry for the wait, I had to bring in a few guests that needed help with the Rite of Parting." Childe said to his colleague as he, Aether, Lumine and Paimon arrived. He then gestured to his colleague already seated. "Allow me to introduce Mr. Zhongli, consultant of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor."

"A pleasure to meet you, sir." Aether greeted with a bow. "I'm Aether, and this is my sister Lumine, and my companion Paimon."

"Nice to meet you, sir." Lumine and Paimon greeted the consultant with a bow.

Zhongli is a tall man with fair skin, amber eyes with yellow diamond-shaped pupils and red eyeliner on the lower lids of his eyes, and mostly short dark brown hair with a longer fringe on the right side of his face. There is also a section of his hair on the back of his head that is waist-length.

His outfit consists of a beige dress shirt, a brown and amber waistcoat, slim black trousers, black dress boots, and black gloves with twin silver archer rings on the thumbs. His neckpiece is a white tie pinned at the throat by an amber gemstone. His left ear is adorned with a jeweled tassel earring. Over everything, he wears a long dark brown tailcoat with dragon scale patterns, gold and silver accents, golden tassels, and Rex Lapis' diamond symbol on the back. Zhongli's clothes are decorated with diamond symbols found on his sleeves, belt, trousers, waistcoat buttons, and tailcoat buttons. Lastly, he wears a Geo Vision embedded on the chain at the small of his back.

"Likewise." Zhongli nodded back and gestured to the empty seats around the dining table. "Please, have a seat." After the four took their seats, Zhongli turned to Aether and Paimon. "So you must be the Traveler and your flying companion. I have heard tell tales of your deeds from Mondstadt. It is an honor to meet you."

"Oh, it's no big deal." Aether replied, rubbing the back of his neck. "I'm on a journey to find my missing sister." He turned to Lumine. "But apparently, she found me instead. And she brought friends."

"We were just lucky, that's all." Lumine said.

"On the bright side, at least we don't have to search for his missing sibling all over the place." Paimon said. "Now we're just traveling the nations of Teyvat while helping people along the way."

"Ah, truly taking the path of a traveler. An admirable path, in my opinion." Zhongli mused. "And now your path has led you to the Land of Contracts after exploring the Land of Freedom."

"Mhm." Aether nodded. "We got a tip from a traveling bard about Rex Lapis appearing during the Rite of Descension, which is another reason why we're here in Liyue Harbor."

"But then, during the rite yesterday…" Lumine sighed sadly.

"Ah, of course. Rex Lapis' assassination." Zhongli said. "It was indeed tragic for you three and the people of Liyue to witness such an unexpected turn of events."

"Some friends of ours are paying a visit to Director Hu Tao of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor to help with the Rite of Parting." Paimon said.

"Director Hu Tao…" Zhongli sighed. "While I do respect her role as the director, her actions can be quite… problematic. The Millelith find her methods very troublesome. That, and she can be quite mischievous."

"Not to mention also causing trouble for my Fatui brethren, pranks or not." Childe thought.

"Asking for her assistance for the Rite of Parting might not be a viable choice. Fortunately, I can provide that assistance instead." Zhongli said. "Rex Lapis may be the Prime of Adepti, but he is ultimately an adeptus. Many adepti have left us over the millennia, this is the inexorable trend. As you have seen, the time of the adepti is ending, and the time of mankind is slowly dawning. In years past, Liyue's tradition was that a huge memorial service be held to mark the passing of every adeptus. But this time for an unknown reason, the Qixing have made no attempt whatsoever to respect this tradition. It is sacrilege."

"Oh, don't worry. The Qixing didn't forget about it." Lumine assured. "Lady Ningguang was the one who sent our friends to visit the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor to help with the rite preparations."

"Ah, so you have already met with the Tianquan. That does indeed put my mind at ease for them to remember such an important tradition." Zhongli noted before standing up. "Now then, follow my instructions so we can provide a god so kingly a proper send-off."

"Sure thing, but there's one tiny little problem…" Paimon pointed at the dishes on the table. "Who's going to finish all of that?!"

"Eheheh…" Childe sheepishly chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck. "Yeah… I didn't account for this part. Guess I'll have to finish them myself. Ah, almost forgot." He took out several bags of Mora and tossed them to the travelers and Paimon, prompting them to catch the bags. "You're gonna need those funds to buy the items needed for the rite. You'd be surprised at how expensive those items can be."

"Are you sure about this?" Aether asked. "This is a lot of Mora."

"Don't worry, I'm fine with giving away my money to help people." Childe replied. "But if you happen to have some leftovers after buying the items, please return them to me."

"Sure thing." Lumine nodded. "But how will we find you?"

"No need. I'll find you instead." Childe replied before facing the dishes. "Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to get acquainted with these things they call 'chopsticks'."

"Oh. Uhh… good luck with that." Paimon sweatdropped as they left the pavilion.

Once they're gone, Childe let out a sigh of relief. "Glad I chose to let Zhongli do all of the talking. Still, at least I was able to learn the names of those travelers, Aether, Lumine and Paimon. That, and they've already met with the Qixing, making them their allies as a result. If only the Rebellion didn't arrive in Teyvat, then things would've gone differently in the Fatui's favor." He sighed once more. "Oh well, no point crying over spilled milk. We'll just have to try a different approach instead. Though I still want to have a shot against one of their Rebellion members, especially that Kamen Rider. But for now…" He glared at the chopsticks. "...let's see who's superior. You, or me?"

---

Liyue, Sea of Clouds

Meanwhile, Zi-O, Cure Starlight and Fu Hua flew towards the marked location on the sheet from the Jade Chamber with their Wind Gliders. They soon reached their destination, landing and hiding above a small mountain where they saw several Fatui Skirmishers patrolling at an abandoned ruin site below, guarding a few boxes containing talismans and blank papers.

"Security seems tight from the looks of this area." Fu Hua stated, looking at the site with her Zikan Phone in camera and silent mode, and taking a few pictures, with Starlight performing the same action. "And there's also the Sigil of Permission copies near the box, along with a few plain ones."

"Why do they need that many talismans?" Starlight pondered.

"Whatever it is, we need to put a stop to their operation." Zi-O stated. "Got enough photos?"

"More than enough to show these to Ningguang." Fu Hua replied as she and Starlight put away their phones. "I wonder if I should show the photos to the adepti?"

"I don't see why not." Starlight shrugged. "That will make them aware of the crimes the Fatui committed."

"Zi-O, what are your orders?" Fu Hua asked.

"Let's steal a few of the talismans and blank papers to show Ningguang and the adepti. Everything else can burn to ashes." Zi-O answered, taking out his Kabuto Ridewatch. "And I'm gonna hit those Fatui so fast, they won't know a thing."

"Ooh, Kamen Rider Kabuto's power. I know how powerful that Rider is, especially his final form." Starlight grinned. "Oh, and after you give them a beat down, can we steal some of their gear too? Maybe Einstein might be interested in those?"

"Sure thing." Zi-O nodded. "Now excuse me while I find a quiet place to form change, I don't want our position to be compromised." He then went to a quiet place which is next to a Teleport Waypoint, then turned the dial on his Ridewatch and pushed the button.

=KABUTO!=

Afterwards, he slammed the tilt button on the belt and gave it a 360 spin.

=ARMOR TIME!=

Red and silver armor parts appeared in front of Zi-O before they flew around him and attached themselves into his Base Form with the chestplate and shoulder pads now having a red and silver color scheme with the platings on the legs and arms colored in silver and black. The shoulder pads are also shaped like a Kabuto's horn head with his helmet having the same feature. Lastly, the pink katakana for 'Kabuto' slammed onto his visor, completing the form change.

=CHANGE BEETLE! KABUTO!=

"Grandmother said this:" Zi-O, now in his KabutoArmor, began to quote while pointing to the sky. "'You cannot hit what you cannot see.'" He summoned his Zikan Gilade Ken Mode, held it in reverse grip, and inserted the Kaixa Ridewatch onto the weapon slot, causing the blade to glow yellow. "Ten seconds is all I need to get the job done." Afterwards, he pushed the button on the Kabuto Ridewatch. "Clock Up."

=CLOCK UP!=

Soon after, everything became very slow from his point of view, not feeling the wind breeze along with noticing a faraway stork flying even slower than a snail. He quickly flew upwards with his glider and towards the slow patrolling Fatui at the ruin site. Without missing a beat, he delivered X-slashes onto them from behind as the Fatui were far too slow to notice and react. Eventually, only one skirmisher remains, a Fatui Pyroslinger Bracer. He slowly approached the Bracer while putting away his Zikan Gilade, pushed the button on the Ridewatches and slammed the tilt button. "Rider… Kick." Zi-O declared before giving the belt a 360 spin.

=FINISH TIME! KABUTO!=

Once he got close to the Bracer, he turned away from him as his right foot began surging with electricity.

=CLOCK TIME BREAK!=

"Hah!" Afterwards, he delivered a powerful 360 roundhouse counter kick to the Bracer's head before walking away and faced the Fatui patrols. "Checkmate."

=CLOCK OVER!=

Time began to move at normal speed again after the belt's announcement, causing all of the Fatui to fall unconscious because of Zi-O's attacks earlier using Clock Up, including the last Pryoslinger Bracer that was kicked earlier, was sent spinning in the air before falling face first and knocked out. Zi-O then noticed Starlight and Fu Hua watching from up the mountain and waved to them. "All clear, girls! Come on down!"

The girls nodded as they flew down with their gliders and landed in front of Zi-O. "Told you he'd knock them all out in ten seconds." Starlight smirked to Fu Hua with her hands on her hips.

"So it seems. Seeing is believing, after all." Fu Hua noted. "I know I saw Kabuto's abilities after watching his battle footage weeks ago in the Symphogear world, but seeing it in person feels entirely different."

"I know, right?" Zi-O agreed as he reverted back to Base Form. "So this is how it feels to move at hypersonic speeds."

"Anyway, with the patrols out of the way, let's have a closer look at those talismans. As for me, I'm gonna go ransack the Fatui's gear." Starlight said as she used her Zikan Phone to store the Fatui's gear inside, while the others approached the box full of talismans.

Fu Hua frowned as she picked up the talisman and the plain paper left on the ground. "So they really are trying to reproduce the Sigil of Permission using a normal piece of paper. And it's the same pattern too."

"Question is: How did the Fatui get those hands on that relic?" Zi-O pondered.

"It's more than just a relic." Fu Hua replied. "Talismans are used to channel divine powers. It's also used to seal dangerous beasts."

"Dangerous beasts, huh… I wonder if Liyue has that kind of beast hidden within the nation?"

"I think a visit to the bookstore is in order. But since I'm going to pay the adepti a visit soon, maybe I should ask them about what kind of beast is sealed."

"Please do." Zi-O nodded. "We need to know what we're dealing with here. And I'm gonna bet the Fatui are going to use those talismans to unseal or control a dangerous beast. Or maybe they're going to use the divine power for themselves."

"Most likely the former." Fu Hua answered. "As if murdering an archon and stealing a Gnosis is not enough. What is the Tsaritsa thinking?"

"If I remember the info from Kanade's team when they visited Cloud Retainer, something must've happened after the cataclysm 500 years ago that changed the Cryo Archon."

"Hmm… if only we could get more info about the Tsaritsa." Fu Hua pondered before taking a few talismans and papers. "We'll think about that later. But for now, we have what we came for."

"Okay, I'm all done here!" Starlight said as she approached them. "Managed to snag all of their gear and even tied them up using my energy rope. I even gave Ningguang a call earlier so she can send the Millelith to take the Fatui to jail."

"Good going, sis." Zi-O nodded before facing the boxes. "All that's left is to burn those things to the ground."

"Leave that part to me." Starlight complied, rotating her PreBrace and aimed her palm at the box as her palm began to glow. "Starlight Shoot." And with one energy blast, the box was razed to cinders along with the talismans and papers. "It's done. Now let's head back to Ningguang and give her the report."

"By the way…" Zi-O turned to Fu Hua. "If you're going to pay a visit to the adepti, how will you find them?"

"Simple. I'll follow the same method Aether and Lumine used to call in Xiao at Wangshu Inn." Fu Hua replied. "He should be able to take me to the adepti, or at least tell him to send my report to them."

"Alright." Starlight nodded. "Then this is where we part ways for now."

"Catch you later, Fu Hua. And give the adepti our regards!" Zi-O said as he and Starlight use their gliders to fly back to the Jade Chamber.

"Will do! Have a safe trip back!" Fu Hua replied before using her glider to fly towards Wangshu Inn.

---

As time passes, everyone went to perform their tasks in different locations. Zeo and Akira returning to the Jade Chamber to give Ningguang their report of the investigation; Hibiki and Rin checking out the bookstore which caused them to meet with Xingqiu and helped with his request; Kanade, Kirika and Chris assisting Hu Tao with her work; and lastly Kiana and Miriam performing repair works on the wooden walkways and staircases in Wangshu Inn along with Fu Hua meeting with Xiao and telling him about the investigation.

As for Aether, Lumine and Paimon, they followed Zhongli as he provided instructions on how to prepare the Rite of Parting, starting with taking three pieces of Noctilucus Jade from the Jade Mystery owned by Shitou, and head for Dadaupa Gorge in the Mondstadt region to use the massive cooking pot to test which jade piece has the highest quality, though they had to deal with some hilichurls to avoid disruption. Eventually, they were able to find the highest quality jade piece after cooking the pieces, prompting them to return to Shitou and tell him the results. The travelers also realized that Zhongli didn't have enough Mora to pay for the jade piece. Luckily, Shitou was kind enough to give away the high quality jade piece at half price after hearing their reason for buying the jade because of the Rite of Descension. Afterwards, they left the jade to a jewelsmith for forging.

Zhongli then provided the travelers the next step for the rite: perfumes that are made from flowers. While Zhongli went to a Statue of the Seven at the Sea of Clouds, the travelers met up with Bolai, the owner of Wanyou Boutique, to buy some Silk Flowers. Bolai was kind enough to give away the flowers for free after hearing their reason for buying them. However, he was unable to make perfumes with the flowers, so he suggested meeting with a woman named Ying'er from the Scent of Spring shop. After they met with Ying'er, she provided instructions on how to make the perfumes. Once the perfumes were made, they went to meet with Zhongli who's waiting at the Statue of the Seven then instructed them to place the perfumes onto the statue. First is the Golden House Maiden, second is the Valley Weaver, and lastly Fate's Yearning, which Zhongli revealed it to be the Rex Lapis' favorite as the statue began to glow once the third perfume was offered.

The next step from Zhongli's instructions is to obtain a Cleansing Bell from a wise old lady named Madame Ping, located somewhere within Yujing Terrace. However, Zhongli won't be going with the travelers due to attending with other matters, so only the travelers will meet with Madame Ping. After the travelers returned to Liyue Harbor with the perfumes in hand, they were able to find Madame Ping at Yujing Terrace, looking at the wilting Glaze Lilies.

"All things must change…" Madame Ping spoke sadly.

"Excuse me, madame. Are you alright?" Aether asked politely, earning her attention.

"It's nothing, it's nothing. I just thought it a great shame that so many of these Glaze Lilies have wilted." Madame Ping replied.

"What happened to them?" Lumine asked.

"Back in my day, people said that Glaze Lilies can read human hearts. If they heard beautiful sounds like laughter and singing, they would also bloom joyfully. But if they heard too much wild gossip or slander, they would quickly wither away."

"...So that means these flowers feel what's happening in Liyue." Paimon deduced.

"Yes, the rumors of Rex Lapis' death are no small matter. They are everywhere. Some say it was a Fatui plot. Others say that the Qixing made it all up, and still others think that That Which Lies in the Deep is breaking free. This harbor is like a mountain of dry tinder. One spark and the fire will consume us all."

"That Which Lies in the Deep?" Lumine thought.

"Don't worry, Madame Ping. The Qixing would never lie about this since they're loyal and respectful to Rex Lapis." Aether assured. "This is definitely a Fatui plot."

"If you say so, young man. And I'm glad to hear your honesty about the Qixing." Madame Ping smiled. "But that's enough of that. This old woman's grown too old and naggy. What is it that you want to ask, youngsters?"

"We'd like to borrow the Cleansing Bell. It's for the Rite of Parting." Lumine requested.

"Ah, that old trinket. I remember it being here with me, but I've grown old. I can't quite recall where it is exactly. An old friend of mine used to wear it on his person, back when I was young. He saw me gazing at it often and gave it to me. But he told me then that if someone should come to borrow that bell, I should not be loath to part with it. It has been many years, and who knows how many times someone has come to borrow this bell. Still, though I can't recall when it started, it's been a long time since anyone has come to borrow it. Ah, these old bones are so slow to look for things. I doubt you can wait that long."

The travelers and Paimon shared a nod with each other before facing Madame Ping. "That's okay, we can look for it ourselves." Aether said.

"That's right, granny." Paimon nodded. "We'll follow you back home, and search for it ourselves! And... Um, we can help with chores if you have any too!"

"Alright, children, there is no need to worry. I didn't place the bell very far away." Madame Ping said.

"Eh? Do you live near here, granny? Whoa, but this is Yujing Terrace. It's gotta be expensive!"

Madame Ping chuckled at Paimon's response. "An old lady like me can't afford to buy a place in this city. See this ceramic teapot? My entire household is in here." She glanced at said teapot on the table.

"Uhh… how does it work?" Paimon scratched the side of her hair in confusion.

"Oh that's simple. All you have to do is touch it." Said the arriving Yanfei, with Zeo and Akira beside her.

"Ah, Yanfei. How nice of you to visit." Madame Ping greeted before looking at the Naotoras. "And are those two your next clients?"

"Oh, no. They're my friends. They helped me out in a bind while I was in Mondstadt a few days ago." Yanfei replied. "Zeo, Akira, this is Madame Ping. One of the wisest women in all of Liyue."

"Nice to meet you, madame." The Naotoras bowed.

"Likewise." Madame Ping nodded.

"What are you three doing here, by the way?" Akira asked the travelers and Paimon. "I thought you guys were gonna buy some souvenirs."

"Well there's been a change of plans since the antique shop opens in the evening." Paimon explained. "But then we met this guy named Childe who introduced us to another guy named Zhongli who happens to be part of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor. And we've been following his instructions for the Rite of Parting."

"Which leads us to obtaining a Cleansing Bell from Madame Ping." Aether added as he glanced at the teapot. "And she told us that the bell is somewhere hidden in her home… which happens to be a teapot of all things."

"By the way Yanfei, did you just say… 'touch the teapot'?" Lumine asked.

"Mhm." Yanfei nodded. "I happen to overhear something about entering Madame Ping's home to get something."

"Let me guess, there's something special about that teapot, right?" Akira guessed.

"That's right." Yanfei confirmed before facing Madame Ping. "You don't mind if I guide them around your home?"

"Of course, I don't mind at all." Madame Ping nodded. "Oh, but do me a favor and clean up the place. I haven't been using it for a long while."

"No problem." Yanfei replied before facing her friends and raised her hand forward. "Grab my hand, everyone."

The team shared looks with each other before grabbing Yanfei's hand.

"Okay, hold on tight!" Yanfei then touched the teapot with her free hand, causing her and the others to vanish in a flash.

---

Inside the Teapot

Soon enough, they find themselves in a realm that's similar to Cloud Retainer's Abode which Kanade's team traversed through yesterday.

"Huh?! This is what the teapot looks like on the inside?!" Paimon exclaimed as everyone (except Yanfei) were surprised at what they witnessed.

"This place is a lot bigger than the outside." Aether commented.

"Just as I thought. This teapot is a sub-space realm." Akira said.

"How did you decide on that conclusion?" Lumine asked.

"Video games. Duh." Akira answered.

"Never thought we'd be inside a sub-space realm." Zeo remarked.

"Amazing, isn't it?" Yanfei smiled.

"Definitely." Zeo agreed as they looked at their surroundings. "Now how are we going to find a bell in a place like this?"

"Follow me, I know my way around." Yanfei replied as she led the team ahead, starting with crossing an energy bridge, though the path was blocked by a web wall created by a spider. However, the traveling twins were able to take care of that roadblock with a combined Palm Vortex.

As they traversed through the realm, they reached an area where a control mechanism is sealed at the area's edge along with several Electro Slimes hopping around the center.

"Okay, spiders and cobwebs are one thing. But slimes? That doesn't make sense." Akira commented.

"Y'know, Paimon just realized that those cobwebs from earlier contained elemental energy." Paimon said.

"Elemental energy, huh? Maybe that's why there's slimes here." Zeo noted as he took out his Ziku Driver and Zi-O Ridewatch and placed the Driver on his waist. "Well, in the words of Noelle, 'Time to clean up!'"

"Way ahead of you!" Akira agreed, taking out her PreChange Mirror and Martial Adept PreCard set as she and Zeo begin their transformation sequences.

=ZIKU DRIVER!=

=ZI-O!=

"Henshin!"

=RIDER TIME!=

=KAMEN RIDER! ZI-O!=

"Pretty Cure, Kururin Mirror Change!"

"The shining light rising through the stars. Cure Starlight, Martial Adept Form."

"Hey, that's the form Moon Carver gave you!" Paimon recognized Starlight's form.

"Wait, the adeptus gave you that power?" Yanfei asked in surprise.

"Mhm." Starlight nodded. "I showed him the deck of blank PreCards and he was able to unlock three of those cards in a set."

"Ah, so that's how."

"Forgive us, but you're in our way." Starlight spoke to the slimes as the team prepared themselves.

Moments later, the slimes were easily dealt with by Team XDR, causing the seal on the control mechanism to vanish. "Okay, now to see what that mechanism does." Zi-O said as they approached the mechanism.

"Oh! Let Paimon do it!" Paimon raised her hand.

"Considering this is the same mechanism Kanade's team encountered at Cloud Retainer's Abode yesterday, it seems pretty harmless." Starlight mentioned. "Go for it."

"Yes!" Paimon cheered before activating the mechanism, causing two energy bridges to appear which leads to the upper area.

"Alright, let's proceed." Yanfei said as the team crossed the bridges, leading them to the upper area where they encountered another sealed control mechanism, a Geo Slime and another spider hanging on a cobweb.

After quickly disposing of the threats, the seal vanished as the team approached the mechanism. Upon activating the mechanism by Aether, an upcurrent appeared on the center of the area, prompting them to fly onto it with their Wind Gliders which led them to another upper area. After landing, they noticed another energy bridge appearing at the end of the area, prompting them to cross it.

As they crossed the bridge, Paimon turned to Yanfei. "You know... with such a special teapot, and the Cleansing Bell… Do you think this old granny could also be an adeptus? Paimon's more and more convinced that she's an adeptus. But don't they all live in Jueyun Karst? Why would she stay in the city? Yanfei, can you explain why?"

"Well… it's complicated." Yanfei replied. "I think it's better to ask that question to Madame Ping personally."

"...If you say so." Paimon replied back.

Soon enough, they reached an area with smaller platforms which led to a larger area with roaming Electro and Hydro Slimes blocking the entrance. After leaping across the platforms, they quickly disposed of the slimes before moving up the stairs which was blocked by another cobweb made by another spider. Once the spider and cobweb are dealt with, they went through the entrance where they saw another sealed control mechanism guarded by Cryo and Hydro Slimes.

"Geez… didn't realize the mess was this bad considering how many slimes, spiders and cobwebs we've encountered so far." Zi-O commented.

"You do realize Madame Ping is too old to do her own chores, right?" Starlight pointed out.

"...Oh, right."

"I usually have time to help out Madame Ping when I'm not busy with work." Yanfei said. "Though it looks like I forgot to clean her home recently."

"Good thing we're here to help out with her chores." Lumine said.

"Well… time to do more slime extermination." Aether declared as they prepared themselves once more while Paimon stayed away to avoid being targeted by the slimes.

After dealing with the slimes, the last three large slimes appeared before them; a Cryo Slime and two Electro Slimes, one in purple and the other in yellow.

"Aether, Lumine, Yanfei, the Cryo Slime's yours. Leave the remaining to me and sis." Zi-O ordered.

"Right!" The twin travellers and Yanfei nodded as they clashed with the Cryo Slime while Zi-O and Starlight fought the Electro Slimes.

As the twin travellers approached the Cryo Slime, it unleashed an ice breath in an attempt to freeze them, only for the travellers to retaliate with a combined Gust Surge which sucked up the ice breath and the slime into the tornado. Next, the travellers summoned Geo crystals and launched them into the tornado as the crystals attacked the slime in multiple angles. "End it, Yanfei!" Lumine ordered.

"With pleasure!" Yanfei complied, summoning a large Pyro stamp above the tornado before dropping it. The stamp made contact with the slime, causing a large explosion that obliterated it and the tornado. With the slime defeated, Yanfei approached the travellers as they dispersed their weapons. "Already making use of Rex Lapis' gift, I see."

"Ningguang summoned Geo crystals with her Vision, so sis and I figured we could do it too since the crystals looked easy to create." Aether explained.

"Ah I see. Just like how I can launch fireballs with my Vision." Yanfei noted. "But there's always room for improvement."

"Considering you can summon Pyro stamps, we can see why." Lumine replied with Aether nodding in agreement.

Back with Zi-O and Starlight, they quickly evaded the lightning attacks from the Electro Slimes and countered with slashes and kicks before the slimes leaped into the air.

"Let's see how you like oranges." Zi-O took out his Gaim Ridewatch, slotted it into the Zikan Gilade Ken Mode and pushed the Ridewatch button, causing the blade to glow orange.

=FINISH TIME! GAIM!=

"Get ready to jump when they get close, sis!" Zi-O shouted.

"Mm!" Starlight nodded as they prepared themselves. And the moment the slimes began to drop onto them, they quickly jumped away in time before Zi-O unleashed a double slash-wave the moment the slimes landed.

=GIRI GIRI SLASH!=

As the slash-waves struck the slimes, they were trapped inside an orange sphere. "Make it count, sis!" Zi-O said.

"I plan to." Starlight replied, rotating her PreBrace before reeling her fist back as it generated yellow and red energy. "Pretty Cure. Final Starlight." She then rushed towards the trapped slimes and delivered a powerful decisive strike that pierced through the sphere before stopping a few steps away from it. "Martial Strike." Then the sphere detonated into an explosion that obliterated the slimes while Starlight reverted back to Base Form.

Soon enough the group approached the mechanism as the seal on it vanished. "Oh good, they're gone." Paimon sighed with relief. "Let's hope this is the last time we dealt with slimes and spiders."

"Who knows." Zi-O shrugged. "We don't even know if we're near the end yet."

"Well there's no point thinking about where the end is. Let's just keep moving forward till we find the bell." Lumine said, activating the mechanism which caused another upcurrent to appear.

"Looks like we're going up again." Aether said, looking at the upcurrent.

Paimon sighed. "How many levels does this teapot have? It would be nice if we had one of these too. Or at least, we wouldn't have to camp outside…"

"Hmm…" Yanfei pondered silently with her hand on her chin, glancing at the group. "A sub-space teapot for the Rebellion… I wonder…"

"Hm? Something on your mind, Yanfei?" Starlight asked, making the legal advisor snap out of her thoughts.

"O-Oh! Sorry. I was just thinking about something." Yanfei replied. "But you know, I might need yours and Zeo's help after this."

"Help, huh? What do you need?" Zi-O asked.

"I'll tell you once we're done here." Yanfei replied with a wink. "Alright, let's go up."

After the team flew on the upcurrent in their gliders, they reached another large platform with another control mechanism. Yanfei then activated the mechanism, causing another energy bridge to appear on the edge of the platform, leading to another large platform above. After crossing the bridge, they saw some kind of altar where an important item is located on an offering table.

"The Cleansing Bell!" Aether gasped as he quickly approached the table and retrieved the bell.

"Oh, good! We can finally get out of here!" Paimon sighed with relief.

"Well, time to take our suits off." Zi-O said as he and Starlight reverted back to civilians. "Don't want Madame Ping to get spooked about a Kamen Rider and a Pretty Cure appearing out of the teapot."

"So how do you we get out of here?" Lumine asked.

In response, Yanfei looked up. "Madame Ping? We got the Cleansing Bell! Can you let us out now?"

"Oh, you've found it? Youngsters are so quick on their feet." Madame Ping replied from outside the teapot. "Now, let me see... How did this opening work again? Oh dear…"

"Please tell me she didn't forget how to use the teapot." Akira sweatdropped.

"Hey, old age, remember? Like you told me earlier?" Zeo reminded.

"...Oh, right."

Eventually, they heard a click from somewhere. "Alright, that will do." Madame Ping said. "Now come on out, everyone." Soon enough, everyone vanished.

---

Liyue Harbor, Yujing Terrace

The team then appeared out of the teapot with Aether holding the Cleansing Bell. "Ho-ho, in and out in no time... You youngsters really are quick." Madame Ping commented.

"Thanks for getting us out, madame." Zeo said.

"By the way… you wouldn't happen to be an adeptus, are you?" Lumine asked.

"An adeptus... I haven't heard anyone say those words in earnest for a long time." Madame Ping answered. "As to whether I am one or not, child, surely you already understand?"

"Ugh... Paimon kinda knows what you mean, but is also kinda confused. Are you really giving us the bell just like that, Granny?" Paimon asked. "Don't you think it's weird? Something's just happened to Rex Lapis, and then we come running up asking for it."

"Though we did explain our reason why we're taking the bell first." Aether pointed out.

"Oh, don't be silly." Madame Ping replied. "Liyue Harbor has been through a great deal in its history. In that time, it has seen the departure of countless adepti. But no matter what, we have always performed the Rite of Parting first before any other matters."

"Which is why the Qixing sent us to prepare the rite on their behalf while they search for the murderer." Yanfei stated. "...Even though we already knew who the culprits are."

"I'm glad to hear that from you, Yanfei. It's good to know that the Qixing are doing well." Madame Ping noted. "Still, that also means an old friend of mine has finally decided to take matters into their own hands since you're here for the bell. So, why would I be unwilling to lend it to you?"

"This bell belongs to your friend?" Aether glanced at the bell he's holding.

"What if your friend doesn't return it?" Lumine questioned.

"Oh? Well, if it came to that... Haha, they would find a certain old lady knocking at their door." Madame Ping answered. "We haven't met in a while anyway, it would be nice to share a drink and chat. Well, you must have things to do. Since you have the bell, you should return. Oh, and, do tell the person who sent you that if they have time, they can come over for tea. I don't have much to offer, but you can always count on an old lady for a pot of tea."

"We will! Thanks, Granny!" Paimon smiled.

"Zeo, Akira, wanna come along and meet Zhongli?" Aether asked.

"We would, but Yanfei needs our help with something." Zeo replied.

"Oh, okay. See you later!" Lumine waved as she, Aether and Paimon head for the plaza where Zhongli is waiting.

"Give him our regards!" Akira waved back.

"Ah, so Zhongli was the one who asked the youngsters for the bell." Madame Ping thought.

"So Yanfei, what was the thing you needed help with?" Zeo asked.

"Paimon mentioned something about having our very own sub-space teapot." Yanfei replied. "And I happen to have a way to do it."

"Really?!" The Naotoras gasped.

"Oh? You're willing to give these youngsters the special teapot?" Madame Ping asked the legal advisor.

"They're going to need it for the rest of their long journey. Trust me." Yanfei replied. "You don't mind if you could prepare one for them?"

"Oh, of course, dear. Although I am a bit curious to know why you're giving it to them." Madame Ping nodded.

Yanfei turned to the Naotoras. "You don't mind if she can let in on your secret?"

"Well…" Zeo pondered for a moment before nodding. "I guess it's okay."

"But do us a favor and keep this as a secret." Akira advised.

"As you wish. My lips are sealed." Madame Ping nodded.

"Let's find a nice private place to talk. I'll even prepare some tea." Yanfei said as they went for the private place without any evesdroppers.

---

"Zhongli! We have the Cleansing Bell!" Lumine informed as she, Aether and Paimon arrived at the plaza and approached Zhongli, standing beside an offering table.

Zhongli then took a closer look at the bell. "Indeed, this is the Cleansing Bell. Hmm, it's in good condition. Let's place the perfume we've prepared inside."

Lumine nodded as she placed the Fate's Yearning perfume into the bell before Aether placed the bell onto the table.

Aether then turned to Zhongli. "By the way, do you know Madame Ping?"

"Of course." Zhongli answered. "How would I know that the bell was with her, otherwise?"

"Oh. Sorry, that's a stupid question to ask." Aether rubbed the back of his head.

"That is alright."

"Oh yeah, Granny asked us to tell you something." Paimon informed before mimicking Madame Ping's voice. "'If you have the time, you can come over for tea. I don't have much to offer, but you can always count on an old lady for a pot of tea.'"

Zhongli chuckled in response. "That tone does not suit you. Still, her tea pot is indeed very good. There are none better for brewing tea. When a suitable time arrives, I'll bring a spot of fine tea and pay her a visit."

"So what's the next step for the rite preparations?" Lumine asked.

"Hmm…" Zhongli pondered for a moment. "Next, we need to purchase kites."

"Ooh! Paimon loves kites!" Paimon beamed. "Are you taking us kite flying? Is this our break time?"

"Haha, no, no. Kites are children's toys, yes, but they also play various symbolic roles in Liyue's rituals. I will explain it to you. But our next course of action should probably be to purchase the kites first."

"Oh, sure... curiouser and curiouser…" Paimon remarked as they followed Zhongli to the shop where kites are sold.

---

Chihu Rock

Moments later, they arrived at the toy shop owned by Granny Shan.

"Ah, sir, you're here." Granny Shan spoke to Zhongli. "The seven kites you asked for have been made to order. Would you like to take them now?"

"Yes, thank you." Zhongli nodded.

"It's rare to see customers who want to buy this type of kite nowadays. In the early days, we used to get orders from people of all walks of life."

"Well, this is Mr. Zhongli from the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor, so he's probably well-versed in all these walks of life." Paimon stated. "We've talked about a whole bunch of things while traveling with him."

"Fashion, economics, jewelry and jade pottery…" Aether listed off.

"Tea, perfumes, flora and fauna…" Lumine added.

"He seems to know Liyue's favorite topics, money and government, really well, but he likes talking about less useful topics instead." Paimon said.

"Well, that's because I prefer to share fun things with you." Zhongli replied.

"Children's toys are very fun things, that's for sure. I enjoy watching the children at play as much as anyone else. But there is more to it than that." Granny Shan said. "Finely crafted toys are well-loved by children. But this craft itself has been honed over thousands of years, and there is meaning behind that. I have made kites in Liyue for forty years, and I am intimately familiar with the forms passed down from my ancestors. The meaning of these seven kites is far from banal."

"Indeed." Zhongli nodded. "These are decorations used in the Rite of Parting. The seven kites represent The Seven."

"I took the liberty of coloring outside the lines when doing the insignia of the Anemo Archon." Granny Shan gestured to the sky green kite. "As for the kite that honors the Geo Archon, one must follow the contract given right down to the last letter. These patterns are ancient, and you can also find them in the Golden House." Then she gestured to the amber kite.

"Interesting…" Aether noted.

"The design of this kite displays a firm grasp on the cyclicality and eternity so dear to the Electro Archon." Zhongli examined the purple kite before looking at the green kite. "These markings of tree and leaf pay due honor to wisdom and the passage of time. All this, on a single kite. Truly astonishing."

"So the green kite represents the Dendro Archon…" Lumine thought while staring at the green kite.

Zhongli then glanced at the blue, red and light blue kites. "Justice flows across the surface of the waters, war rages like a flame, as does that which the Cryo Archon once... yes, these details are masterfully done."

"The blue and red kites must represent the Hydro and Pyro Archon..." Aether thought. "Justice and War, huh...?"

Granny Shan chuckled in response. "The compliments of a learned man truly are pleasant."

"Well then, Granny Shan, I shall take these back with me." Zhongli decided. "As for the payment…"

"Oh boy, here we go again." Aether sighed in annoyance as he and Lumine pulled out the bags of Mora they got from Childe. "Allow me and sis to pay for it."

"Actually, let me be the one to pay for that." Said the arriving Childe.

"Hey, it's Childe!" Paimon said.

"Did you arrange to meet here, or are you just passing through?" Lumine asked.

Childe chuckled in response. "The latter, actually. I see Mr. Zhongli's the same as ever. When paying… Well, when getting others to pay for him, he neither looks at the price tag nor his wallet. He knows a great deal about money, and about the trials of the common man. He just doesn't consider poverty to be something that could ever happen to him. Or perhaps you could say that he cannot imagine himself lacking money."

"How has he not died of hunger yet?" Paimon sweatdropped.

"...Childe, you are as fond of jokes as ever." Zhongli remarked. "Well then, since we've purchased our kites without incident, there's no need to take a break before moving to the next step in our preparations. The Rite of Parting requires helping hands as well as materials. We should be able to find some people near the harbor."

"Oh, and travelers? Remember to make use of the Mora I gave you back at the pavilion." Childe reminded. "You probably won't want to let Zhongli do the bargaining, if you know what I mean."

"Don't worry, we get it." Lumine assured before they head for the docks, leaving Childe behind.

"Hmm... It seems I missed out on some interesting information. I suppose I'll just have to find a more opportune moment next time." Childe thought as he watched them leave.

---

As time passes, they were able to find some workers that are able to help with the rite preparations… for a price.

Luckily, during Lumine's time on Earth, she was able to use her knowledge there to bargain with the workers at favourable prices without spending too much. And in the end, they were left with 5,000 of Childe's Mora.

Next, they went to Bubu Pharmacy to buy some Everlasting Incense under Zhongli's instructions. But once they entered the pharmacy however…

"Huh, the reception is deserted. And it seems kinda spooky in here…" Paimon said as they looked around. "Hello? Is anybody there?"

"...Welcome to Bubu Pharmacy."

"Eep!" Paimon squeaked as she hid behind the travelers. "D-did you hear that? Wh-Where did it come from?"

"The reception, it seems." Zhongli pointed at said direction.

They then approached the reception desk and what they saw behind it was a young child with pale skin, magenta eyes, black fingernails, and light purple hair that is chin-length except for a section at the back of her head that goes down past her hips. Also, the long part of her hair is braided into a long plait.

Her attire consists of a purple frock and a deep purple beret with a magenta tassel on top and her Cryo Vision embedded on the side. She wears a pair of simple earrings, one black and one white. She also wears black heels and white stockings wrapped in mummy-like bandages. Lastly, she has several fulu talismans stuck on her, including one that's hanging on the front of her hat.

"Is that… a Jiangshi?" Lumine observed the little girl.

"A what?" Aether blinked.

"A Jangshi. A chi… I mean Liyuean zombie that hops around with its arms stretched forward and has a talisman in front of their face."

"...How do you know that?" Paimon asked.

"I'd tell you how, but did you forget who we're traveling with right now?" Lumine gestured her thumb at Zhongli.

"...Oh. Right, Paimon will keep quiet about that." Paimon noted with Aether nodding.

"Welcome to Bubu Pharmacy. I am Qiqi." The zombie girl introduced herself. "Once upon a time, Qiqi died. Then, Qiqi was saved by the adepti. Now, Qiqi is a zombie."

"Such nonchalant delivery for a bombshell revelation…" Aether sweatdropped.

"Hello... little girl." Zhongli greeted the zombie girl. "Do you sell Everlasting Incense here?"

"Excuse me, sir. Did you bring your prescription?" Qiqi asked.

"I... Surely no prescription is needed to purchase Everlasting Incense? It's not a controlled substance…"

"Qiqi can get your medicine. But only if you show Qiqi your prescription. These are Qiqi's orders, from Qiqi."

"'Orders'?" The twin travelers blinked.

"Zombies are limited to acting within the confines of their orders. And somehow, in this case, the zombie issues her own orders to herself." Zhongli explained. "My dear Qiqi, we didn't bring a prescription, I'm afraid. But we do hope that you can still help us find some Everlasting Incense."

Qiqi pondered for a moment before nodding. "Okay then."

"How did you manage that?" Paimon questioned.

"But, Qiqi helps you, you help Qiqi. Only fair."

"Since when do customers need to do favors for customer service staff?" Paimon questioned again while the twins sweatdropped.

"Never mind, just think of it as a peer-to-peer transaction. That way everybody wins. Sometimes, in Liyue, the art of the deal is simply about victory via mental gymnastics." Zhongli stated.

"Go to Mt. Tianheng. Find the Guizhong Ballista. And hunt a Cocogoat. Please and thank you." Qiqi instructed.

"..." The twins and Paimon blinked in utter confusion at what the zombie girl asked to hunt. "A… Cocogoat…?"

"Guizhong Ballista... I have heard of this device before." Zhongli said with his hand on his chin. "It is a kind of crossbow turret, installed on Mt. Tianheng by an adeptus in the distant past. An early mechanical device. Located in Tianheng Pass, it was designed to automatically fire at large monsters, protecting Liyue from external threats."

"Wow, that's amazing." Aether remarked.

"Mr. Zhongli really knows Liyue inside out!" Paimon added.

"Apparently, not quite…" Zhongli admitted. "This is the first I have ever heard of the 'Cocogoat.'"

"Uh… what's a Cocogoat, exactly?" Lumine asked the zombie girl.

"The Cocogoat is a legendary animal. An adeptibeast." Qiqi answered.

"Did you wanna add anything else, or…" Paimon asked.

"No. Just that the Cocogoat is a legendary animal. An adeptibeast. What it looks like: don't know. Where to find it: don't know either. Where it came from: also don't know."

"You really don't know much, do you?" The twins thought and sweatdropped.

"Very well then... Let's start by investigating near the Guizhong Ballista. Perhaps we will find some clues." Zhongli said.

"Yeah, let's just head for Mt. Tianheng." Paimon agreed as they left the pharmacy. "...Seriously, what the heck is a Cocogoat?"

---

Mt. Tianheng

Upon arriving in Tianheng Pass at Mt. Tianheng, they discovered the ballista on top of some old ruins.

"It's huge! Paimon can totally believe it took an adeptus to build this." Paimon remarked as they observed the ballista. "But... how do you operate this thing? Just think how much strength you would need…"

"Hmm…" Zhongli took a closer look at the ballista. "It is currently inoperable, in any case. This device is broken."

"I guess it makes sense considering how old and ancient this weapon is." Lumine remarked.

"Precisely." Zhongli nodded.

"Can it be fixed though?" Aether asked.

"Let me think for a moment." Zhongli pondered with his hand on his chin. "Ah yes. Spare parts were made for the Guizhong Ballista when it was first built, in case it was damaged in battle. As I recall, there is a military supply post from that period somewhere inside the Pass. If we can retrieve the spare parts from where they are stored, we may be able to repair the Guizhong Ballista. One just needs to understand the basic working principles of the device."

"So... what you're saying is that you actually understand the working principles?" Paimon guessed.

"I have a smattering of knowledge on the topic." Zhongli replied. "With the parts in hand, I could at least tinker with it."

"Alright then." Lumine nodded. "Paimon, stay here with Zhongli for a moment. My brother and I will head for the supply post and look for the parts."

"No problem!" Paimon replied with a salute before the twins head for the supply post.

The twins were able to find the supply post close by. Since the front door is locked, they went through an open window. And inside, they were able to find the materials needed for the ballista repairs along with some extra treasure chests and a switch to unlock the front door. After unlocking the door, Lumine stored the contents of the treasures using her Zikan Phone while Aether retrieved the materials. Soon enough, they regrouped with Zhongli and Paimon.

"Hmm…" Zhongli examined the materials Aether is carrying before taking them. "These parts should be useful. One moment, I'll begin repairing the ballista."

Zhongli then used the materials to repair the ballista. Two minutes later, the repairs are complete. "It is done." Zhongli informed. "The Guizhong Ballista is more intricately designed than I thought."

"Alright!" Paimon cheered. "Now how do we turn it on?"

"It's easy enough. We simply need to do this." Zhongli pointed at the ballista controls. "Look, it even has a scope."

"Okay then." Aether nodded before heading for the controls. "Paimon, look through the scope for me while I move the weapon."

"Right!" Paimon nodded before heading for the scope and looked through.

As time passes, Aether and Paimon used the ballista to search for the elusive Cocogoat. "Hmm… not over here." The ballista then moved to another direction. "...Not there either." And then another direction. "...Nothing on that side either."

"Hey! What the hell do you think you're doing?!"

Their search was interrupted as they turned their attention to the one shouting, which revealed to be a group of Treasure Horders, led by Freckle Huang.

"So you fixed up this turret... because you're planning to do what, exactly!?" Huang demanded.

"Not a turret. A Guizhong Ballista." Zhongli corrected. "Also, kindly state your name before you ask a question, it's just good manners."

"Ha! Are you blind or something?" Huang scoffed. "You're looking at the leader of the Treasure Hoarders, old man! This area's supposed to be chock-full of hidden treasures, but you can't get anywhere near them with this thing keeping watch. It might look like any other mechanical device, but trust me, it's got a mind of its own!"

"It's a magical ballista?" Lumine thought.

"Last time we approached the mountain, it nearly skewered one of our guys! A few of us risked our lives to disarm it - which, amazingly, we managed - and then we turn our backs for two seconds and you've ALREADY GONE AND REPAIRED IT!?"

"That's more than two seconds, actually." Paimon pointed out.

"Shut it, smartass!" Huang retorted. "That's it! The next thing you'll be repairing is your faces, and that's if you get out of this alive!"

"We'll see about that." Aether replied as he and Lumine prepared themselves.

Zhongli shook his head in disappointment. "Tut-tut. Vandalizing the legacy of an adeptus for selfish gain. Disgraceful behaviour. It is not we who need reprimanding, but you."

In response, a Treasure Horder Marksman fired an arrow from his crossbow at Zhongli's head… only for Zhongli to catch the arrow with his fingers before throwing it back onto the marksman's leg at high speed.

"Ah! My leg!" The marksman yelled as he fell to the ground and covered his injured leg, until he was knocked out by Zhongli's dive kick to the head.

That angered the other Treasure Horders as they began attacking Zhongli, but he was able to evade their attacks with ease and then countered with palm strikes and kicks which knocked them out. Two Pyro Potioneers are about to throw their Pyro bottles at Zhongli… only for the bottles to blow up in their faces after Aether and Lumine fired Anemo arrows at the bottles. And then the twins followed up with a dive kick onto the Potioneers' heads which knocked them out. An Electro Potioneer is about to throw an Electro bottle at the twins… only for him to be sent flying by Zhongli's palm strike, leaving only Freckle Huang left.

Huang was furious as he viciously began his attack with his knives, but Zhongli effortlessly dodged his attacks and disarmed his weapons by attacking his arms. Then Zhongli simply ducked, allowing the twins to leap over him and perform a Geo-infused flying kick onto Huang, immediately knocking him out.

"Well fought, you two." Zhongli praised the travelers.

"You're not too bad yourself, Zhongli." Aether replied. "Do you have your own weapon to use?"

"I can use my spear, but it is not needed for this situation. My martial arts are more than enough."

"Oh. We can see why." Lumine noted.

"Troubling ourselves over this rabble is not worth the time. We should focus on our contract with Qiqi." Zhongli stated.

"Oh yeah, that." Paimon remembered. "So we've got the Guizhong Ballista working, but we still need to find that Cocogoat. But… how?"

"A search using the Guizhong Ballista revealed no significant life forms nearby, save for the usual wildlife. What's more, a contraption built using adeptus technology should have no trouble detecting an 'adeptibeast' as Qiqi put it."

"Oh, so that's why the ballista was able to move on its own. Because it has adeptal energy." Lumine noted.

"But since the ballista didn't move… it didn't detect any adeptibeast." Aether deduced.

"So that means we can't find it after all." Paimon finished. "Well... that's a waste of time. Though Paimon's wondering why Qiqi needed us to hunt down a Cocogoat."

"Then perhaps we should return to Bubu Pharmacy and ask her why." Zhongli suggested.

"Well, back to Liyue Harbor." Aether said.

---

Liyue Harbor, Bubu Pharmacy

Minutes later, the group returned to the pharmacy where they saw Hibiki and Rin talking to Qiqi.

"Oh, Hibiki and Rin! Fancy meeting you two here!" Paimon greeted with a wave, earning their attention.

"Ah! Paimon-chan, Aether-kun and Lumine-chan!" Hibiki greeted back.

"Are you here to get some medicine?" Rin asked.

"Actually we just came back from Mt. Tianheng after trying to search for an adeptibeast." Aether replied.

"An adeptibeast?" Hibiki repeated. "Which one?"

"...A Cocogoat."

"..." Hibiki and Rin blinked a few times in confusion.

"Ask Qiqi. She's the one who tasked us to find it to fufill her request so we can get the Everlasting Incense for the Rite of Parting." Paimon pointed at the zombie girl.

Hibiki then noticed the tall man accompanying the twins and Paimon. "And who is this person following you?"

"Zhongli, Consultant of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor." Zhongli greeted with a bow. "And you are…?"

"Oh, I'm Hibiki Tachibana. And this is Huang Lingyin, but you can call her Rin."

"Wangsheng Funeral Parlor?" Rin repeated. "Do you work under Director Hu Tao?"

"That is correct… even though her methods can be a bit… troublesome." Zhongli replied. "I am merely guiding the travelers and their companion with instructions on how to prepare the Rite of Parting."

"I thought you three are going to get some antiques." Hibiki spoked to the travelers.

"The antique shop doesn't open until the evening." Lumine explained.

"Ah, I see."

"Forgive us, Qiqi, as we were unable to fulfill our end of the contract." Zhongli apologized. "We found no trace of the Cocogoat adeptibeast of which you speak."

"We tried using the Guizhong Ballista to search for the adeptibeast, but it didn't detect any adeptus energy in the area." Aether added.

"Ah. What a disappointment." Qiqi noted. "Don't worry about it. But I feel very disappointed."

"Why do you need them to hunt down a Cocogoat?" Rin asked the zombie girl.

"Cocogoat milk is tasty. So tasty. Much better than normal goat milk. Only an adeptibeast could make such tasty milk."

"Cocogoat… milk…?" Hibiki blinked in confusion.

"I'm sorry. I have a... poor memory. I cannot remember the name of the milk. That's why I wrote it down. Where did I put it…" Qiqi then searched her pockets until she found a notebook and began reading it. "Ah. Here. This is the name. 'Coconut milk.'"

"..."

"..."

"...Coconut… Milk…?!" Hibiki, Rin, Aether, Lumine and Paimon exclaimed in shock.

"..." Zhongli was stunned in silence for Qiqi's reasoning before facing the travelers and Paimon, and bowed. " I... owe you three an apology. I hastily agreed to what appeared to be an equitable agreement with this zombie child, when perhaps I should have undertaken further due diligence."

"Uhh… Never mind Zhongli, you didn't know." Paimon replied. "As the Liyue proverb goes, 'All things are random, and... so how are you supposed to predict anything?' Literally no one could have seen this coming."

"Excuse me, everyone." Qiqi spoke up, earning their attention. "Did Qiqi say a bad thing?"

"Yeah… about the Coconut Milk… it actually came from Coconut Trees. Not from a Cocogoat." Rin explained.

"R-Rin! You're not supposed to say that to a child!" Paimon exclaimed.

"Why not? She's gotta learn where it actually came from." Rin replied, making Paimon facepalm. "Everyone needs to grow up eventually."

"Even if it's a zombie child?" Hibiki asked.

"...Yeah, that too." Rin sweatdropped.

"No... Im-Impossible…" Qiqi felt like crying at the moment.

"A-ah! Hold on, Qiqi-chan! J-Just… calm down for a second!" Hibiki panicked.

"Haha, someone learnt a valuable life lesson today, then? Thank you all for looking after my little Qiqi."

Everyone turned to the one arriving in the pharmacy after hearing his voice. "Might I ask, who…" Zhongli began.

"Ah, how rude of me. I'm Baizhu, boss of the Bubu Pharmacy." The tall man introduced with a bow.

Baizhu has light skin and long green hair, half tied up in a bun and secured with a hairstick, golden snake-like eyes and wearing a pair of gold ornate oval-framed glasses. He also has a white snake draped around his neck like a scarf.

His outfit consists of a cropped short-sleeved shirt and indigo pants. Over his pants is a teal-blue sash where his Dendro Vision hangs, and a pale blue jacket, resembling a lab coat of sorts, draped around his shoulders like a cape. He also sports golden asymmetrical arm gauntlets, an anklet and blue flats.

"Paimon thought Qiqi was the boss... turns out it's some wacko who wears medicinal ingredients around his neck!" Paimon said.

"That's actually a snake, Paimon." Rin corrected, pointing at said snake around Baizhu's neck. "And her name is Changsheng."

"What a sssorry state of affairs... This little mascot is even more of a sssimpleton than Qiqi…" Changsheng remarked.

"Eep!" Paimon squeaked.

"A… talking snake?!" Hibiki exclaimed.

"Ah, Rin. Nice to see you again." Baizhu greeted. "Here to pick up some medicine?"

"Yup." Rin nodded. "It's for me and my friends in case some of us got sick. And it's good to see you and Changsheng again, Baizhu."

"Hmph! I prefer to stay sssilent. But faced with ssstrangers, I must speak, lest you mistake me for an escapee from the medicine cabinet, for I am a living, breathing ssserpent!" Changsheng muttered.

"Oh come on, don't be like that…" Rin replied. "Though I was shocked to meet a talking snake when I first met you and Baizhu days ago while I was picking up medicine for Xiangling and myself."

"As for you three…" Baizhu turned to Zhongli, Paimon and the twin travelers. "Communal chaos-causing with Qiqi aside, what business brings you here?"

"Do you sell Everlasting Incense in this fine establishment?" Zhongli asked.

"Everlasting Incense? Why, of course we do!" Baizhu confirmed. "...Three million Mora, top quality, guaranteed."

"...Three million Mora?!" The twin travelers and Paimon exclaimed.

"That's… a lot of Mora…" Hibiki nervously sweatdropped.

"Hmm... Three million... An innocuous number in and of itself, though practically speaking, it could be a hard sum to come by." Zhongli remarked.

"...Paimon thinks we should ask Ningguang for that large amount." Paimon suggested.

"Yeah, good idea." Aether and Lumine agreed.

But then they heard someone laughing out loud and entering the pharmacy, revealing to be Childe. "Cocogoat! Cocogo- Ahaha-ow my sides hurt... Oh my goodness, I cannot BELIEVE you fell for that!"

"Hey! Less laughter, more sympathy, Childe!" Paimon retorted.

"I'm almost in tears over here… Okay, maybe a little bit in tears." Childe wiped the tears off his eyes. "Ah, thank you, that was the best laugh I've had in a long time. In return, I'm more than happy to sort out this mess you've managed to get yourselves into…" He then turned to Baizhu. "Excuse me, sir... Dr. Baizhu, isn't it? Truly honored. I'm Childe. I'm here to help pay for whatever they're buying."

"Are you sure you have that much Mora to pay for that?" Aether questioned. "It's Three Million Mora for a single Everlasting Incense."

"I know. I got a lot more Mora than you think." Childe winked. "That, and I've got a trustworthy supply distribution network, including coconut milk."

"He's just as rich as Ningguang, and he's got a supply network?!" Lumine mentally exclaimed.

"Coconut milk. Baizhu. Quick. Qiqi wants coconut milk." Qiqi demanded.

"Okay, Qiqi. Anything you want." Baizhu replied before turning to Childe. "Very well then, you have a deal. I can give you a discount on that Everlasting Incense too, let's say... 2,990,000 Mora."

"Done." Childe accepted and shook Baizhu's hand.

"That's like… zero difference from three million!" Paimon commented.

"...At least Childe bailed us out of a jam." Aether stated. "No way we can earn three million Mora so quickly."

"Oh yeah, I didn't know who you girls are." Childe noticed Hibiki and Rin. "Who are you two?"

"Huang Lingyin, but you can call me Rin. And this is Hibiki Tachibana."

"Nice to meet you, Childe-san." Hibiki greeted.

"Likewise." Childe smiled back. "Hibiki Tachibana, huh? I wonder why an Inazuman is here in Liyue?" He then turned to Baizhu. "Anyway, just give them the incense while I go to the bank and get the payment."

"Very well." Baizhu nodded before he started looking for the incense.

"Alright, time for me to go. Later!" Childe left the pharmacy with a two-finger salute. Once he was out of their view, he began chuckling again. "That lot is an absolute riot. Honestly, I can't remember the last time I laughed so hard. A shame we're on opposite sides." He then noticed someone hiding behind a pillar, revealing to be a Fatui Scout named Ekaterina. "So. You've been eavesdropping, I hope. What have I missed?"

"Yes, Master Childe." The scout nodded. "The Millelith spoke of the Qixing taking the Exuvia to the Golden House."

"Ah, I've expected this much considering the Geo Archon's status when it comes to Mora. Let me take care of Baizhu's payment first before I begin my investigation. In the meantime, see if you can find Signora. She's been silent as of late."

"Lady Signora hasn't contacted you for anything?"

"Other than her backup plan if there's no Gnosis inside the Exuvia, no. Which is why I'm asking you to find out why."

"Understood. I'll get it done." Ekaterina nodded before vanishing.

Childe sighed before taking a quick glance at the travelers inside the pharmacy. "Aether, Lumine, Paimon, sorry about this. But as the old Liyue saying goes: 'The walls have ears.'" He walked away, hiding a hint of guilt in his face. "As much as I wanted to face you and the Rebellion, I just wish innocent people wouldn't be involved in the carnage."

---

Yujing Terrace

With the Everlasting Incense in hand, they returned to the plaza and placed the incense on the offering table. Hibiki and Rin also tagged along after taking the bought medicine and herbs from Baizhu and Qiqi.

"Well, as it stands, we've hired helpers, and we've acquired the Everlasting Incense. The completion of our preparations is not far off." Zhongli summarized.

"Phew… Finally! We're almost done!" Paimon said with relief.

"So what did you guys do to prepare for the rite?" Rin asked the travelers.

"First, we had to get a high quality Noctilucus Jade." Aether began.

"Second, we had to get a perfume made from a flower, which happens to be Silk Flowers." Lumine added.

"After that, we had to get a Cleansing Bell from Madame Ping so we could put the perfume inside it, along with buying some kites. And Zhongli already mentioned hiring helpers for the rite along with getting the Everlasting Incense. And… that's it." Paimon finished.

"Wow. You guys must've done a lot to prepare for the Rite of Parting compared to Kanade's team." Rin commented.

"Are they still with Hu Tao right now? I wonder what they're doing?" Hibiki pondered.

"I believe Director Hu Tao is asking for help with her work before she could assist with the rite preparations." Zhongli assumed. "Considering it involves with spirits of the departed, it will take time to complete."

"Spirits? Just like Dusty Ming?" Aether responded.

"Ah, so you've encountered her spirit before. Moving on…" Zhongli turned to the travelers. "Have you gained anything from our adventure so far?"

"Well… it's been an odd experience." Lumine answered.

"Odd?" Zhongli raised his eyebrow. "How so?"

"I'm not sure if we've been living the high life." Lumine commented.

"Or experiencing the struggles of the poor." Aether added.

Zhongli chuckled in amusement. "Which is it, I wonder? The questions that such travels raise are ever so complicated. Well, I'll leave you to ruminate over it yourself."

"So what's our next step for the rite?" Aether asked.

"The next step can wait for the time being." Zhongli replied. "Instead, as an act of goodwill, I've decided to treat you to a meal."

"You're… treating us to a meal?" Lumine repeated in surprise.

"Are you sure you're not gonna ask us to pay for it?" Aether asked cautiously.

"Oh? Ah, yes, don't worry. I will remember to bring the Mora this time." Zhongli assured. "Tonight, I shall take you both to an old hole-in-the-wall, praised throughout Liyue."

"Hole-in-the-wall?" Paimon repeated. "As in... a cool restaurant?"

"Indeed." Zhongli nodded. "Let us meet near the harbor at Third-Round Knockout."

"Oh, that fancy restaurant?" Rin responded. "I heard the place is a bit expensive, but the food is delicious."

"But… why is it called 'Third Round Knockout'?" Hibiki questioned.

"According to Chef Mao, there was an incident in which he got drunk after having three bowls of the tavern's specialty, wine-fermented sweet rice balls. And because of that, it gained the name, 'Third Round Knockout'."

"That's… an interesting way to name a restaurant." Hibiki sweatdropped.

"Hey Zhongli, you don't mind if Hibiki and Rin can join in?" Aether asked.

"That depends if they wish to join in or not." Zhongli replied.

"I… can't come this time. I have plans with Miku later tonight." Hibiki declined.

"I don't have any other plans tonight, so I'm free to join in." Rin said.

"Very well, I'll begin the reservations after I prepare my Mora. See you later tonight." Zhongli said before leaving.

"See you tonight!" Paimon waved.

"So… what are we gonna do now until tonight?" Aether asked.

"I think we'll head back to base and rest for a bit." Lumine answered. "And maybe take a shower first."

"Yeah, us too." Rin agreed with Hibiki nodding. "We had to help out Xingqiu with his request. A really long request… which also involves beating the crap out of the Fatui."

"Wow, sounds rough." Paimon remarked.

"It's fine. Xingqiu was there to help us, and he's skilled with a sword and a Hydro Vision Bearer." Hibiki said. "We also had help with his friend Chongyun, a Cryo Vision Bearer and skilled with a claymore."

"Wow. Wish we could've met them." Aether remarked.

"Maybe someday." Rin replied. "Anyway, time to head back. Hibiki and I are already done with the grocery run, along with getting some medicine and herbs."

"We even got the Teyvat Travel Guide for Liyue after helping out Xingqiu." Hibiki added.

"How nice." Lumine replied. "Alright, let's head back."

Afterwards, the group began heading back to their base in preparations for their plans at nighttime. Unknown to them however… it would involve the fate of Liyue as a harsh storm will soon loom over the city.

---

Chapter 3: Farewell, Archaic Lord

END