East of the Moon, West of the Sun

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The Shoemaker's Children Go Barefoot The Tale-Telling Heart Whisper Beneath the Waves Return to Sender The Raven's Legacy

The Shoemaker's Children Go Barefoot

Breaking into the heavily guarded Fatui facility was unexpectedly easy...

Paimon:

Quick, 旅人, scooch over a bit and make some room for Paimon...

???:

Wah! Wh—What are you doing!?

Paimon:

H—Huhh?

For some reason, the container seems to already be occupied. It is also clear that the current occupant is most displeased to have uninvited guests...

Paimon:

Ow-ow-ow! 旅人, are you okay?

Furious Fatuus:

...What the— what hole did you all crawl out from!?

Calm Fatuus:

Look, isn't that the thief we're looking for?

???:

...Give it back! Y—You... That's my treasure! Give it back!

Paimon:

Wh—What treasure? We didn't touch anything... We haven't even opened the last chest.

Furious Fatuus:

Do you take us for fools? Putting on this "uneven spoils split" act in front of us...

Calm Fatuus:

We'll take them all in — both her and her accomplices.

Paimon:

Huh? W—Wait! We don't even know her!

Calm Fatuus:

Pick a more convincing lie, would you?

Furious Fatuus:

That still makes you a trespasser. And we arrest those too!

After some effort, you convince the Fatui guard to go "take a break" elsewhere...

Cold Voice:

Just lock her up here? Is that what we're doing?

Weary Voice:

Yep. Poruchik Raskolnikov's orders.

???:

...Did you say "Raskolnikov"?

Weary Voice:

That's "Poruchik Raskolnikov" to you, thief. Show some respect.

Cold Voice:

Forget about her. Where's the chest? Have you delivered it to the archives?

Weary Voice:

Oh, Bakunin's on leave today. I bet he's downing another cup at The Flagship right now.

Cold Voice:

He sure knows how to enjoy life... Let's leave the chest in the dormitory for now and worry about it tomorrow.

Paimon:

Nice. Now we can return the stuff we took from you by mistake earlier.

Netochka:

I didn't expect it to go so smoothly... I even got something as powerful as the Moonstriders. I'm sure they'll come in handy later.

Netochka:

Speaking of, you aren't bad at all. Maybe just a bit shy of Reed Miller's level, even though we look the same age... And is that a chatty fae next to you?

Paimon:

Paimon's not fae! Paimon's Paimon, 旅人's companion and guide.

Paimon:

Also, why do you keep comparing us to some thief? We're properly registered adventurers!

Netochka:

Eh? Were you commissioned by the Adventurers' Guild to come here, then? Hmm, so you weren't... Makes sense, she did say she only told me.

Paimon:

Well, this isn't exactly a commission from the Adventurers' Guild... Also, why are you getting so nosy? You haven't even told us your name, that's not fair at all.

Netochka:

Name? Call me Netochka. Soon enough though, I'll be known as the reincarnation of the legendary thief Reed Miller, heir to the Great Treasure — Netochka, the Thief Extraordinaire! Hehe.

Paimon:

Thief Extraordinaire is cool and all, but "Honorary Knight" just has that righteous ring to it. And... it makes Paimon happy to think about the old friends who use this title!

Netochka:

Anyway... You're not here for a commission, and you don't like Reed Miller, so why are you interested in the Proof of the Cognoscenti?

Netochka:

...Ahh, is this about the Great Treasure? No romance or destiny involved, just here for the loot?

Traveler:

My destiny does not lie here.

Paimon:

What about you then? Aren't you here for the treasure?

Netochka:

Heh heh, well, I must say...

Netochka:

"I kindly ask you to return the Sampo Mill, and all other ill-gotten gains stolen from the Frostmoon Scions, right this instant!"

Netochka:

"Remember, Nod-Krai is our Elysium, and we need neither gods nor pompous lords here!"

Paimon:

Wow, what are you doing?

Netochka:

Haven't you read "The Legends of Reed Miller, Thief Extraordinaire"? *sigh* Never mind. Of course you haven't. I mean, who wouldn't fall for him after reading that?

Netochka:

I came across this book when I was still in Novokitezhgrad... From that moment on, I knew my mission.

Netochka:

Upon my arrival in Nasha Town, the very first person I met gave me a clue regarding the Proof of the Cognoscenti — that's destiny for sure!

Netochka:

Just as the oppressive, greedy governor here stole treasures from the Frostmoon Scions all those years ago, the Fatui now have seized things that don't belong to them.

Netochka:

I must retrieve the Proof of the Cognoscenti from them and find Reed Miller's Great Treasure, so that his name, now forgotten, will be held in esteem once more throughout the world!

Paimon:

Uh...

Traveler:

Um...

Netochka:

Th—There's nothing wrong with that!

Netochka:

And just like how Reed Miller had his trusty companions Shadow Weasel and Wagtail, your unexpected arrival must also be fate.

Netochka:

Otherwise, I'd probably still be stuck there, even if you hadn't taken my treasure.

Paimon:

Hmm? So what exactly is this treasure you're talking about?

Netochka:

It's a thief's starter kit that someone sold me at a "heartbreaking discount." However, none of the doors here have keyholes, so it's completely useless.

Netochka:

That person was like a prophet from the old tales. She seemed to know everything about me and my intentions at first glance...

Netochka:

Not only did she prepare everything I needed, but she also pointed the way forward for me... just for me.

Traveler:

Even Paimon wouldn't fall for that...

Paimon:

What do you mean "Even Paimon wouldn't fall for that"!? But you're right. All that "heartbreaking discount" and exclusive information stuff sounds like a scam...

Paimon:

Wait a minute, did you get all your intel from her? That's not reliable info at all!

Netochka:

That can't be... She was so sincere, there's no way she was lying! Hmm... You just haven't met her yet, I think. When we get back to Nasha Town, I'll introduce you.

Netochka:

As for Raskolnikov... Well, Poruchik Raskolnikov, I do know him. We knew each other back in Novokitezhgrad.

Netochka:

...But never mind him for now. We just need to find the Proof of the Cognoscenti...

Netochka:

So let's get moving! Hehe, it's like we're Reed Miller the Thief Extraordinaire and his two sidekicks, Shadow Weasel and Wagtail, come again.

Traveler:

I call dibs on Shadow Weasel.

Paimon:

So that makes Paimon Wagtail? Wait... Why can't Paimon be Reed Miller?

Netochka:

Character assignments require careful consideration! Naturally, it's first come, first served. And since I was here first, I get to be Reed Miller.

Paimon:

...Ugh, what kind of roleplay is this anyway!?

Netochka:

...*cough* You're right, it is quite juvenile. Then let's go with Netochka the Thief Extraordinaire and her Merry Companions, Goldfinch and Snowy Owl!

Traveler:

Can't I just use my real name?

Netochka:

But I think Goldfinch suits you perfectly! And Snowy Owl really suits Paimon too!

Paimon:

Hmm... Snowy Owl sounds... kinda cool? It's all mysterious and wise and stuff!

Netochka:

Hehe, so that's settled then?

Netochka:

Now we can focus on finding the Proof of the Cognoscenti. Earlier, I heard that the chest was sent to the dormitory.

Netochka:

Those two Fatui didn't follow Raskolnikov's orders. They're definitely in for big trouble. He's always been a meticulous guy. Everything has to go exactly as he plans...

Netochka:

You could call him a perfectionist. No matter what trouble comes up, he always manages to handle it methodically. Some people really admire that trait.

Netochka:

...Anyway, enough about that now. We've got that Proof to find... and I still remember the direction those two Fatui went. Follow me.

Netochka:

There's nothing here — but how... Did you find anything on your end?

Paimon:

Looks like a journal. Pretty careless of them to leave it out in the open like this.

Paimon:

Everything should be fine now, let's go!

Netochka:

Then I'll be off! Don't fall too far behind!

Paimon:

Phew! Finally, we're safe... at least for now?

Paimon:

Ugh, just our rotten luck! Paimon never would've guessed that the container... y'know, contained a thief the Fatui were chasing!

Paimon:

We wouldn't be in such a mess if it weren't for her. Great, now the chest is gone, and we had to fight the Fatui...

Paimon:

Oh and, and! She even accused us of taking some treasure of hers. Lies! Lies and slander! Ugh, the more Paimon thinks about it—!

Traveler:

Speaking of...

Paimon:

...What's this?

Traveler:

Something I swiped in the dark just now.

Paimon:

...Huh!?

Paimon:

Is this the treasure she mentioned? Uh, what should we do now?

Paimon:

Yeah... wait no! We don't even know if there is one around here, and, even if there were, it's not like we can just waltz in there, much less her!

Paimon:

Hmm... Paimon wouldn't have cared as much if it were just an item from a chest no one owns...

Paimon:

We should find a way to return it... A—As long as it's returned to its rightful owner, everything will be fine!

Paimon:

But we've probably already caught the attention of the Fatui here, so a little extra caution could save us a lot of trouble!

Netochka:

Sorry, I made trouble for you again...

Paimon:

We're used to it at this point. Now, if you ditched us or tried to shoo us off at this point... Now that would make us mad!

Netochka:

...Okay. Then, thank you, for keeping me company.

Paimon:

That's more like it! Speaking of, didn't that Ras guy say he'd meet us at the highest point? Why's the lift malfunctioning, then?

Netochka:

What should we do? Do we try to fix it?

Netochka:

I doubt it's that easy to fix!

Paimon:

Th—That scared Paimon! She thought it'd hit her for sure...

Traveler:

Now we can jump up.

Paimon:

Oh! True, we did something similar when we collected data for Fanngel. But, what about Netochka...?

Netochka:

Hm? You knew about this strange lightning, too? A treasure hunter I met told me that jumping from where the lightning strikes to the top level should be a cinch with the Moonstriders.

Netochka:

Should we go now?

Traveler:

I need to do some prep first...

Netochka:

Then I'll wait for you.

???:

You two...! If it hadn't been you, I'd have snagged the Proof of the Cognoscenti and gotten away by now! And... you also stole my—

Paimon:

Woah, calm down! Things were chaotic back then and we didn't mean to take anything from you. And see? We're here to return it to its rightful owner.

Paimon:

A—Anyway, we'll return it to you right now... Uh, how should we do that?

Paimon:

She probably can't... Maybe we should just leave it here...

???:

...You can't be serious. What is this cold indifference you're showing to a fair damsel in distress!? If it were Reed Miller, he would have rescued me in a heartbeat.

Traveler:

...Fair damsel?

???:

A—Am I not one?

???:

Hmm... You're also here for the Proof of the Cognoscenti, right? How about this — you help me get out of here, and I'll consider sharing some clues with you.

Traveler:

I think we'll do just fine without your clues.

Paimon:

That's right. We can find our own way! We're very experienced in that department.

???:

Huh? W—Wait, don't go! Then, how... how about information on Raskolnikov? Poruchik Raskolnikov. They say he's quite somebody here.

???:

Though wreaking havoc here wouldn't be a bad play... It'd be just like how Reed Miller ransacked the governor's palace, took back the Sampo Mill, and stole the heart of the governor's daughter...

???:

...Ahem! Anyway, I—I mean, it would be in your interest to claim your treasure with grace, no? The information I have will definitely help!

???:

P—Please, I beg you, please help me! If Raskolnikov learns that I'm here... I...

Paimon:

What do you say, 旅人? Should we help her?

Traveler:

We're already here, may as well.

???:

Hah! Splendid! Today really is my lucky day! Now, I've already swiped an ID card off the guards earlier, so I just need the other one, and we'll be set!

???:

I don't know where the other card is... but even if you find it, there's still the problem of getting it inside and placing it high up to remove the barrier.

Netochka:

Almost there... I need to make some final preparations. Hmm, "Goldfinch," if you're ready, let's go.

Paimon:

Whoa, a floor plan! Did we really just get our hands on some top-secret info this easily?

Paimon:

Paimon thought grabbing an important item like this would come with some kind of dramatic scene...

"Nod-Krai Regional Safety Assessment Report":

(A few thick volumes...)

"Staff Casualty, Reward, and Punishment Records":

(The section about the Nothing Passage seems quite intriguing...)

"■■■■■■ Technology Research":

(No usable information can be discerned...)

Chatty Fatuus:

Say, the good ol' Poruchik collecting the Proof of the Cognoscenti... Think that counts as an abuse of power for personal gain? I mean, we're here on a mission. The heck are we doing, digging holes for him like moles...

Taciturn Fatuus:

What happens up there is none of our business.

Chatty Fatuus:

Do you think reporting it to the higher-ups will do anything?

Chatty Fatuus:

'Cause it seems to me that they don't like Poruchik Raskolnikov up there either. Maybe my report's just the opportunity they'll need!

Taciturn Fatuus:

You should keep these words to yourself.

Chatty Fatuus:

Huh? What, are you trying to get ahead of me? That's low of you, real low!

Taciturn Fatuus:

*sigh*...

Paimon:

Hmm? Paimon can see something from here...

Netochka:

Looks like the disposal workshop. It's on the floor plan too. I guess this is where they get rid of defective products.

Netochka:

Look up, I think I see someone...

Traveler:

(Zoom in on the scene.)

Netochka:

It's Raskolnikov! And the chest!

Paimon:

"Good work, you've done well. Rest up before the next assignment. Ah, and let's have Nod-Krai Hot Dogs for dinner tonight."

Paimon:

...Wait. Why did Paimon get so caught up in acting?

Netochka:

Looks like you're both masters of disguise and infiltration, Goldfinch, Snowy Owl. You sure are reliable partners.

Netochka:

However, it would be better if you both were more committed to playing the characters, in terms of speech and mannerisms...

Paimon:

Huh!? What are you, a film director? That's asking way too much!

Netochka:

Huh? This is nothing compared to what's required of ballet performers!

Paimon:

So you watch ballet? Paimon thought you only watched... Wait, that's not the point here!

Paimon:

Anyway, let's put the roleplay aside for now. We can pretty much confirm that the guy called Ras... Ras-whatever, has retrieved the Proof of the Cognoscenti, right?

Paimon:

By the way, why are the Fatui collecting the Proof? Are they also interested in the Great Treasure? ...C—Could they be in the middle of a financial crisis!?

Traveler:

That's what happens when you spend money recklessly.

Paimon:

Hmm... It's hard to imagine that the Fatui would take interest in the Great Treasure because they're out of funds...

Paimon:

Is this that Ras guy's personal interest, then? Wow, asking his subordinates to find treasure for him, that's...

Traveler:

Despicable!

Paimon:

What do they call this again... Yes, that's it!— an "abuse of power"! Truly despicable!

Netochka:

Um... If it's the Raskolnikov I know, he wouldn't do this out of personal interest. In fact, he doesn't have anything that could even be considered a "personal interest."

Netochka:

There must be some motive... The only thing he's interested in is getting ahead of the game, so maybe he plans to bribe his superior using the Great Treasure...

Paimon:

Come to think of it, Paimon never asked... What exactly is your relationship with that guy, Netochka? It's unusual for a thief to know so much about a Fatui officer.

Netochka:

...W—We just knew each other from before. We're both from Novokitezhgrad, so it's not that strange that we know each other, right?

Netochka:

Besides, think about it — no one ever questioned why the fae governor in the story wanted to seize the Sampo Mill, right?

Netochka:

Point is, the mill didn't belong to him, just like how the Proof of the Cognoscenti doesn't belong to the Fatui. So naturally, we — the ones on the side of justice — must take it back.

Netochka:

Goldfinch, Snowy Owl, this is where we carve our names in fame and glory as Reed Miller's successors!

Traveler:

For fame and glory!

Paimon:

Well, if 旅人... if Goldfinch says so!

Paimon:

But that guy is also an officer here, right? How are we supposed to get the Proof from him without exposing ourselves...?

Netochka:

Hmm... Based on the floor plan, we can quickly get to the second floor of the disposal workshop from the archives, and get it done before he leaves.

Netochka:

He thinks everything is under his control, including the chest, which ended up in his hands just as he wanted. But he can't control us...

Netochka:

Hehe, that'll be so Reed Miller! Appearing at unexpected times and places, making a dashing entrance, then gracefully departing... A perfect performance.

Paimon:

Huh? How did we end up on the other side? We followed the floor plan exactly.

Raskolnikov:

Do ants in a maze know that they travel along pre-designed paths? I am surprised that you took the bait without a speck of doubt.

Raskolnikov:

You've fallen right into my trap, little thief.

Netochka:

Raskolnikov...

Raskolnikov:

It's Poruchik Raskolnikov. It's been a while, Netochka. I never expected Police Chief Stalanov's daughter to end up playing thief in this godforsaken place.

Paimon:

...Police Chief's daughter?

Raskolnikov:

It seems these two playmates in your game of house don't know you very well. Not that it matters.

Raskolnikov:

I must say, your little farce helped me root out quite a few deceptive, two-faced subordinates.

Raskolnikov:

Organization members who fail to execute orders to the letter should be terminated, immediately.

Paimon:

Never mind Netochka's background. We've met lots of odd ducks — so what if she's the police chief's daughter?

Netochka:

Snowy Owl...

Paimon:

And all that talk about executing orders to the letter... You're all just moving a chest back and forth! The one giving nonsensical orders is the real weirdo here.

Paimon:

Oh, right! All this nonsense almost made Paimon forget that — that's what's important here!

Netochka:

And it doesn't belong to the Fatui. I must take it back — that's my mission!

Raskolnikov:

Take it back? Ridiculous. Of course Reed Miller's treasure doesn't belong to the Fatui — it belongs to Her Majesty the Tsaritsa.

Raskolnikov:

Whoever brings the Great Treasure back to Snezhnograd will be rewarded. Should I do so, I could even be promoted to staff officer.

Netochka:

I knew it. You're as obsessed with these titles as ever.

Raskolnikov:

...Enough! Since you claim to be Reed Miller's successor, you must be prepared to follow in his footsteps too.

Raskolnikov:

This place shall be your execution ground. If you have any last words, now is the time.

Raskolnikov:

But I will not relay them to Chief Stalanov on your behalf. It's best that he never finds out what happened to his precious daughter. I owe my former teacher this much respect.

Netochka:

Precious daughter? Feh. All he ever cares about are his endless cases and "promising juniors" like you!

Raskolnikov:

...Hah, you're no better. Still as arrogant as ever.

Raskolnikov:

But it matters little, because this will all end shortly.

Netochka:

Ugh...

Traveler:

So, you really don't know who I am?

Raskolnikov:

So long as you're an accomplice of the thief illegally infiltrating the Experimental Design Bureau, this place will be your grave too.

Paimon:

Looks like we'll have to do this the hard way...

Netochka:

I'm sorry, I lied to you. I do know him, but none of what I know will help us. I can't even help much in battle...

Paimon:

There's no point saying that now, Netochka. Just leave the fighting to us... to 旅人!

Traveler:

I knew it would end up like this...

Paimon:

But you prefer things this way, right? Straight-up fights are better than wild chest hunts... Whoa, watch out!

Paimon:

Never mind that now, let's find a place to hide before we get caught!

Raskolnikov:

What!? How...

Paimon:

Oh! Paimon knows! This is what they call "Turning their own blade unto them"!

Raskolnikov:

...It seems I've miscalculated. The Proof of the Cognoscenti that you seek is in my hands. If you want it, follow me outside!

Raskolnikov:

I'll be waiting for you at the highest point of the Experimental Design Bureau.

Paimon:

Eh!? He ran away? That... that coward!

Netochka:

Leave it to me! I'll go after him!

Paimon:

F—Finally made it up here...

Paimon:

He's alone? Paimon thought he ran so fast because he was going to call for reinforcements.

Paimon:

Ah! How despicable!

Netochka:

I'll... I'll fight with you!

Raskolnikov:

If you want the Proof of the Cognoscenti, you must defeat me first! That is, if you can.

Netochka:

Phew... We won. Now, hand the Proof over.

Raskolnikov:

...Come and get it yourself.

Paimon:

Paimon didn't expect you to admit defeat so easily... And there really weren't any reinforcements!

Paimon:

It sure saves a lot of trouble, but this isn't what usually happens. If this is a trap...

Netochka:

Didn't you say you'd get promoted if you brought the Great Treasure back to Snezhnograd? Why are you giving us the Proof so easily?

Raskolnikov:

When did I ever say that I would be the one to do that? Keeping the Proof at the Design Bureau will bring nothing but trouble.

Raskolnikov:

As long as it stays here, there will be an endless swarm of rats coveting it, trying to infiltrate this supposedly impregnable stronghold, just like you lot.

Raskolnikov:

I am to guard the Design Bureau and ensure its efficient operation. But orders from my superiors must be obeyed.

Raskolnikov:

This already constitutes insubordination, of course... but due to my failings, the Proof of the Cognoscenti that we spent so much manpower to find was ultimately stolen by a petty thief.

Raskolnikov:

Now you can go back to Nasha Town... or wherever you want, to announce your victory.

Netochka:

...Did you lose to us on purpose?

Raskolnikov:

Losing to an opponent who has deep ties with the Harbingers brings no shame upon me. I'm impressed you managed to find such help...

Traveler:

So you did know about us.

Netochka:

Eh!? I knew that you were exceptionally skilled, Goldfinch, but...

Raskolnikov:

...Haha! A fool blessed with blind luck. I've always hated your kind...

Raskolnikov:

Forget it. Take the Proof of the Cognoscenti. The Experimental Design Bureau will no longer devote manpower to searching for this accursed thing. We won't meet again.

Raskolnikov:

But if you insist on future unwelcome visitation, I'll show you what I'm really made of.

Raskolnikov leaves...

Netochka:

This curtain call is completely different from what I imagined, even with the Proof of the Cognoscenti...

Netochka:

I need some time to think about all this...

Netochka:

If only he were the big bad governor oppressing the innocent, then I would have... Now, I'm made to look like the unreasonable child...

Netochka:

*sigh* I'm sorry for dragging you into this farce. Say, do you really have connections to the Harbingers? That's... a surprise. If you'd told me earlier...

Netochka:

We could have been called "旅人 the Thief Extraordinaire and His Merry Companions" or "Paimon the Thief Extraordinaire and Her Merry Companions"... or something similar? Haha...

Netochka:

Right, speaking of which, you should take the Proof of the Cognoscenti. Yes, it's much better in your hands than mine.

Traveler:

Why do you sound so defeated all of a sudden?

Paimon:

Yeah, why are you giving up already? And, didn't something like this happen just a moment ago?

Paimon:

You and that Ras-whatever guy, you talk in circles around each other and act like everything's settled afterwards.

Paimon:

And that makes Paimon feel kinda uneasy, even if we did get the Proof! It's like a sneeze that just won't come out...

Netochka:

I just... suddenly realized that, compared to Raskolnikov and all of you, I'm just an insignificant character in the story, like I've always been...

Netochka:

I wish I could become Reed Miller, a true protagonist with an adventure to call my own — someone who can claim the spotlight and receive the adoration of all...

Netochka:

So I told myself that it was my destiny to become Reed Miller's successor. To turn my fantasy into reality, I came here in search of clues about the Great Treasure.

Netochka:

Back in Nasha Town, Hidimbi gave me some clues on the Proof of the Cognoscenti and said I was special, that she had chosen me. I was so happy at the time...

Netochka:

But now that I think about it, how could I possibly have been the only one? She must have had other motives.

Netochka:

All that talk about being Reed Miller's successor, about destiny and mission... they were never meant for me. I'm still just a pebble by the roadside, worthless and unnoticed...

Paimon:

Yeah, how does that saying go... "Everyone's the protagonist of their own story"?

Paimon:

So what's wrong with us being "Netochka the Thief Extraordinaire and Her Merry Companions" in your story?

Paimon:

Ah, but like we agreed, Snowy Owl is the character who embodies wisdom and beauty, and who's just the slightest bit mysterious! It's a role made for Paimon, hehe.

Paimon:

As for 旅人... Sorry, Goldfinch, he can be the handsome and cool character!

Netochka:

I envy you, Paimon... I wish I could think that way. Do you have any tips on finding happiness?

Paimon:

Hmm... Well, Paimon's happy just being with 旅人.

Paimon:

Whether it's eating Chicken-Mushroom Skewers in the wild or feasting in a fancy restaurant, it's all good as long as it's done with 旅人!

Netochka:

So if I want to be happy like you, Paimon, I'd need a companion like 旅人...

Paimon:

Hmm... That doesn't sound right. Why do you always have to imitate others, Netochka?

Paimon:

You just have to be yourself. Everyone has a chance of becoming Reed Miller's successor, but only you can be you.

Netochka:

But if I'm just being myself... would I actually deserve it? To be a brilliant character in people's eyes, or a special someone?

Paimon:

Hey, why are you still going on about this? It doesn't matter what others think!

Paimon:

Paimon doesn't get why you keep worrying over it. Even if you're not someone's "special someone" or a big name, you can still be happy!

Netochka:

So you think none of that matters... That's really broad-minded, Paimon...

Paimon:

...Broad-minded? Hmm, yeah, that's right! That's the secret to happiness! Hehe, Paimon can drop insightful lines too.

Netochka:

Well, since you think none of that matters, then... 旅人, would you become my best companion? I don't expect to be your special someone, but...

Paimon:

W—Wait a minute! B—Best companion? That won't do!

Paimon:

That title belongs to Paimon, r—right? 旅人?

Netochka:

Haha, you talk the talk but can't walk the walk, Paimon!

Paimon:

Hmm? Netochka, you... Are you making fun of Paimon!?

Paimon:

Since you're already feeling well enough to joke around... Hmph, and here Paimon was, just a bit, a tiiiny bit, worried about you.

Traveler:

Quick, say thank you to Paimon.

Netochka:

Mm! Thank you, Paimon, and thank you too, 旅人. Snowy Owl, Goldfinch, you're both my dear companions!

Paimon:

By the way, what are your plans after this? And, the Proof of the Cognoscenti...

Netochka:

I'll let you take the Proof this time. You've earned it. But if we cross paths elsewhere in the future, don't expect any mercy from me, alright?

Paimon:

Oh? So we'll be rivals next time we meet? Hehe, the two of us are formidable rivals to have, y'know!

Netochka:

It's a shame we can't become best companions, but I'll work hard to become your greatest rival instead. Just you wait and see!

Paimon:

They're all empty! This is the only one left...

Weary Voice:

We've looked up and down and haven't seen hide or hair of that thief. Where in the world could she be hiding...?

Cold Voice:

Maybe she's gotten what she wanted and already made the big escape?

Weary Voice:

Haha. That's not gonna look good on our monthly reports, let me tell you... or Poruchik Raskolnikov's...

Paimon:

Someone's approaching. Let's hide! Um, that container looks like a good spot...

Container:

(A container that is just here for some reason.)

Container:

(Reminds me of the time Netochka, red as a beet, pushing us out during our previous attempt at hiding inside one...)

Bed:

(There's clearly no chest on the bed, so maybe under it... Whoa, no chest in sight, and completely spotless, to boot...)

Paimon:

Hey! Where do you think you're going?

Paimon:

Oh, you weasel! Trying to ditch us!

Netochka:

S—Say what you want! A true master thief only has her eyes on the treasure. I couldn't care less about anything else!

Voice from Afar:

...That way, hurry!

Voice from Afar:

...Got... Stay put...

Paimon:

Netochka... Are you sure it's this way? It looks dangerous...

Netochka:

Trust me, this is definitely the right way. Besides, isn't sneaking across rooftops what cool rogues do? Ahem... We need to keep our voices down.

Netochka:

Don't worry, Snowy Owl. I'm here with you. Let's go!

Netochka:

(I'll leave the one on the right to you, Goldfinch!)

Netochka:

(Oh, I didn't expect the Moonstriders to come in handy so soon. I'll take care of the top, watch this!)

Netochka:

Piece of cake! Are you all okay?

Paimon:

Paimon didn't expect you to be this good, Netochka...

Netochka:

Of course! How else would I live up to the title of the great Reed Miller, returned to Teyvat at last?

Netochka:

You can count on me from now on, heh heh.

Netochka:

If only he were the big bad governor oppressing the innocent, then I would have... Now, I'm made to look like the unreasonable child...

Netochka:

*sigh* I'm sorry for dragging you into this farce. Say, do you really have connections to the Harbingers? That's... a surprise. If you'd told me earlier...

Netochka:

We could have been called "旅人 the Thief Extraordinaire and His Merry Companions" or "Paimon the Thief Extraordinaire and Her Merry Companions"... or something similar? Haha...

Netochka:

Right, speaking of which, you should take the Proof of the Cognoscenti. Yes, it's much better in your hands than mine.

Traveler:

Why do you sound so defeated all of a sudden?

Paimon:

Yeah, why are you giving up already? And, didn't something like this happen just a moment ago?

Paimon:

You and that Ras-whatever guy, you talk in circles around each other and act like everything's settled afterwards.

Paimon:

And that makes Paimon feel kinda uneasy, even if we did get the Proof! It's like a sneeze that just won't come out...

Netochka:

I just... suddenly realized that, compared to Raskolnikov and all of you, I'm just an insignificant character in the story, like I've always been...

Netochka:

I wish I could become Reed Miller, a true protagonist with an adventure to call my own — someone who can claim the spotlight and receive the adoration of all...

Netochka:

So I told myself that it was my destiny to become Reed Miller's successor. To turn my fantasy into reality, I came here in search of clues about the Great Treasure.

Netochka:

Back in Nasha Town, Hidimbi gave me some clues on the Proof of the Cognoscenti and said I was special, that she had chosen me. I was so happy at the time...

Paimon:

Hidimbi... You mean the person who's on The Flagship's wanted list for fraud? Ugh. Paimon knew you were conned, Netochka!

Netochka:

A wanted list? I had no idea... The Flagship always felt sketchy, so I've never been inside. This is news to me...

Netochka:

But now that I think about it, how could I possibly have been the only one? She must have had other motives.

Netochka:

All that talk about being Reed Miller's successor, about destiny and mission... they were never meant for me. I'm still just a pebble by the roadside, worthless and unnoticed...

Paimon:

Yeah, how does that saying go... "Everyone's the protagonist of their own story"?

Paimon:

So what's wrong with us being "Netochka the Thief Extraordinaire and Her Merry Companions" in your story?

Paimon:

Ah, but like we agreed, Snowy Owl is the character who embodies wisdom and beauty, and who's just the slightest bit mysterious! It's a role made for Paimon, hehe.

Paimon:

As for 旅人... Sorry, Goldfinch, he can be the handsome and cool character!

Netochka:

I envy you, Paimon... I wish I could think that way. Do you have any tips on finding happiness?

Paimon:

Hmm... Well, Paimon's happy just being with 旅人.

Paimon:

Whether it's eating Chicken-Mushroom Skewers in the wild or feasting in a fancy restaurant, it's all good as long as it's done with 旅人!

Netochka:

So if I want to be happy like you, Paimon, I'd need a companion like 旅人...

Paimon:

Hmm... That doesn't sound right. Why do you always have to imitate others, Netochka?

Paimon:

You just have to be yourself. Everyone has a chance of becoming Reed Miller's successor, but only you can be you.

Netochka:

But if I'm just being myself... would I actually deserve it? To be a brilliant character in people's eyes, or a special someone?

Paimon:

Hey, why are you still going on about this? It doesn't matter what others think!

Paimon:

Paimon doesn't get why you keep worrying over it. Even if you're not someone's "special someone" or a big name, you can still be happy!

Netochka:

So you think none of that matters... That's really broad-minded, Paimon...

Paimon:

...Broad-minded? Hmm, yeah, that's right! That's the secret to happiness! Hehe, Paimon can drop insightful lines too.

Netochka:

Well, since you think none of that matters, then... 旅人, would you become my best companion? I don't expect to be your special someone, but...

Paimon:

W—Wait a minute! B—Best companion? That won't do!

Paimon:

That title belongs to Paimon, r—right? 旅人?

Netochka:

Haha, you talk the talk but can't walk the walk, Paimon!

Paimon:

Hmm? Netochka, you... Are you making fun of Paimon!?

Paimon:

Since you're already feeling well enough to joke around... Hmph, and here Paimon was, just a bit, a tiiiny bit, worried about you.

Traveler:

Quick, say thank you to Paimon.

Netochka:

Mm! Thank you, Paimon, and thank you too, 旅人. Snowy Owl, Goldfinch, you're both my dear companions!

Paimon:

By the way, what are your plans after this? And, the Proof of the Cognoscenti...

Netochka:

I'll let you take the Proof this time. You've earned it. But if we cross paths elsewhere in the future, don't expect any mercy from me, alright?

Paimon:

Oh? So we'll be rivals next time we meet? Hehe, the two of us are formidable rivals to have, y'know!

Netochka:

It's a shame we can't become best companions, but I'll work hard to become your greatest rival instead. Just you wait and see!

Paimon:

It seems the Proof of the Cognoscenti isn't here. At least, the chest containing it isn't.

Paimon:

But look, at least we found a floor plan of this place. Paimon's not sure how useful it'll be, though...

Paimon:

Right? How could they just leave something like this out in the open?

Netochka:

...But if it's not here, where else could it be? Should I check the archives again? Or...

Voice from Afar:

Haha! Seriously? I've been itching to see him eat crow!

Another Voice from Afar:

Of course it's real. You know what Poruchik Raskolnikov is like. You think he's going to let someone get away with a fumble like that?

Voice from Afar:

Tell me about it. I had a minor slip-up at work before... It wasn't a big deal, but I got slammed over it.

Paimon:

...Are they getting closer or something?

Netochka:

We can't let them see us. Let's improvise and hide. Gotta look for a good spot...

Traveler:

I'll hide under the bed.

The voices and footsteps get closer and closer. No time to hesitate — You pick your spots and hold your breath...

Voice Nearby:

Huh? Where's the floor plan? I thought I left it right here.

Another Voice Nearby:

You don't see it? Did you lose it somewhere in the archives when we were moving the chest earlier?

Voice Nearby:

I don't think so? Maybe I lost it back at the mess hall... *sigh* Man, fine, I'll go back and look. Wouldn't want to get into trouble again.

Another Voice Nearby:

Thought you said the thief and her lackeys were gone? Heh, for all you know, we'll soon have Dhabit's little crooks peddling copies of the floor plan up and down Nasha Town!

Voice Nearby:

...Don't scare me like that. That's it, let's split up and look for it.

The voices and footsteps fade away. You carefully exit your hiding spots...

Netochka:

Ugh... Had to hold my sneeze in with all that dust...

Paimon:

It's pretty clean and spacious under the bed, but we were completely exposed. That got Paimon's heart racing for a moment...

Traveler:

You should have hidden with us.

Paimon:

Uh-huh. We would've made it, just about.

Netochka:

Huh!? That... Th—That's a bit too close, Goldfinch! A—Are you an idiot!?

Paimon:

Netochka... Only idiots call other people an idiot out of nowhere! Wait, what does that have to do with anything...?

Netochka:

I—In any case, keeping a polite distance is only p—proper! I—It's about etiquette, I'll have you know!

Traveler:

Aren't we intimate companions?

Netochka:

Intimate!?

Paimon:

Paimon doesn't think we're intimate yet! But we can be considered companions. C—Can't we?

Traveler:

We're roleplaying companions, if nothing else.

Paimon:

That we are. Ahem. Well! Goldfinch and Snowy Owl are ready here! What about you, great Netochka? Are you ready to keep looking for the Proof of the Cognoscenti?

Netochka:

...Phew, g—give me a moment. Um, they ended up moving the chest to the archives. We should be able to find it there.

Paimon:

*sigh* We've been all over the shop looking for this thing... Paimon would rather take a commission from the Adventurers' Guild.

Netochka:

This is the key to the secret of the Great Treasure! You can't simply compare it to commissions from the Guild!

Netochka:

Besides, we have the floor plan now... That's our "treasure map," no? Come, Goldfinch, Snowy Owl, let's be on our way!

Netochka:

I'm ready to go whenever you are.

Netochka:

Goldfinch! Just a little longer!

Netochka:

...There we go! Goldfinch, the hammer is yours! Smash that big guy into pieces!

Netochka:

It's just down here and inside. I'll split off now. Goldfinch, Snowy Owl, don't get lost now!

Netochka scales the walls and roof with the power of the Moonstriders and vanishes from sight...

Paimon:

Looks like she's having the time of her life... 旅人, let's hurry and catch up.

Netochka:

Sorry, I made trouble for you again...

Paimon:

We're used to it at this point. Now, if you ditched us or tried to shoo us off at this point... Now that would make us mad!

Netochka:

...Okay. Then, thank you, for keeping me company.

Paimon:

That's more like it! Speaking of, didn't that Ras guy say he'd meet us at the highest point? Why's the lift malfunctioning, then?

Netochka:

What should we do? Do we try to fix it?

Netochka:

I doubt it's that easy to fix!

Paimon:

Th—That scared Paimon! She thought it'd hit her for sure...

Netochka:

Oh! I've heard about this strange lightning before. A treasure hunter I met told me that, with the Moonstriders, it should be easy to jump from where the lightning strikes to the top level.

Netochka:

I guess you can fly up, Snowy Owl, but what about you, Goldfinch...?

Traveler:

I have my ways.

Paimon:

Yeah! This is child's play for him, but you might have to wait a bit.

???:

I don't know where the other card is... but even if you find it, there's still the problem of getting it inside and placing it high up to remove the barrier.

???:

It boggles my mind why the Fatui would invent such a strange device...

Locked Door:

(It won't budge at all. Looks like there's no way to open it...)

Paimon:

Not sure if there's another way out. Let's keep looking.

The Tale-Telling Heart

A group of people, each with their own story to tell, lights a bonfire at Blue Amber Lake...

Danyusha Shesternin:

Yes. Since the Proof of the Cognoscenti is well within reach, we might have a chance at getting it too.

Danyusha Shesternin:

It may not be as valuable as the Great Treasure, but it's an essential key for those who covet said treasure...

Zhorik Shesternin:

...Yes. You're right.

Danyusha Shesternin:

I think we could perhaps use it to buy ourselves some time to turn things around... Zhorik, are you listening?

Zhorik Shesternin:

I'm listening. You're right, you're right. However...

Danyusha Shesternin:

So it's a tragedy, isn't it? He gave up the reward, and when he returned home, nothing was the same...

Zhorik Shesternin:

Why tell the story of a fool like him? If it were me, I'd have stayed on that island. Apples aren't my favorite, but that'd hardly be an issue.

Tolfin:

Looks like we have new friends joining us.

Paimon:

Hehe, this is a nice place to rest. Are you all telling stories?

Zhorik Shesternin:

Tch, more people...

Danyusha Shesternin:

Zhorik, be nice. Sorry, he's probably feeling unwell. Been like this since we left Novokitezhgrad...

Tolfin:

Let us introduce ourselves first. I'm Tolfin. As you can see, I deal in little odds and ends and tell a few stories.

Tolfin:

These two are Mr. and Mrs. Shesternin, who are on their way back to Novokitezhgrad from Nasha Town, I believe. This trail is a tough one. Brave of you two to make the attempt.

Danyusha Shesternin:

Ah... We have our reasons for coming here, but that's personal and a long story, so let's leave it at that.

Paimon:

It's our turn now, right? Paimon's Paimon, and he is 旅人. We're adventurers, just passing by.

Tolfin:

Oh? Then you must have heard of Reed Miller's Great Treasure. They say that the key to unlocking its secret lies within the five Proofs of the Cognoscenti.

Tolfin:

Speaking of that, I've told many stories about Reed Miller, and I was fortunate enough to lay my eyes on a Proof of the Cognoscenti. One of them was even found by my friend.

Tolfin:

Coincidentally, this very spot we're resting at was built by that friend of mine. Knowing him, the Proof of the Cognoscenti might very well be here.

Zhorik Shesternin:

...Are you talking about Papa Wrench?

Tolfin:

Oh-ho, it appears my friend is quite famous. Back then, he was traveling between the islands with a caravan, and as it happened, I would have some dealings with them.

Tolfin:

Come to think of it, his story is quite extraordinary. Although he lost his memory due to an accident, his skill in crafting and maintaining machinery is as remarkable as ever.

Tolfin:

And the very accident that caused his memory loss, that shipwreck from many years ago... I'm sure you've heard of it too, Mr. and Mrs. Shesternin. I believe him to be a survivor of that incident.

Danyusha Shesternin:

That's... Could there be such a coincidence...? Zhorik survived that incident, too... but my father wasn't as lucky.

Zhorik Shesternin:

Danyusha, didn't we agree to leave all that behind?

Danyusha Shesternin:

Yes, I know... but lately I've been thinking... Father loved me — loved us — so much. Were he still alive, he wouldn't sit and let this happen...

Paimon:

Are you two in trouble? Perhaps we could help.

Zhorik Shesternin:

You? Right, you're adventurers... Then, could you find the Great Treasure for us?

Traveler:

Piece of cake.

Paimon:

As long as the treasure exists, we will find it! But, we can't just let you take the Great Treasure off our hands for free either.

Zhorik Shesternin:

Heh, money, money, money... It all comes down to money in the end. Nothing's negotiable without Mora, is that it?

Paimon:

Why are you suddenly so agitated...? You're the one commissioning us to find something for you, so of course you need to compensate us.

Paimon:

We enjoy helping others, sure, but it's not right to expect us to work for free!

Tolfin:

Working for free... The Papa Wrench I knew was exactly that sort of person.

Paimon:

Eh? But how would he make a living like that?

Tolfin:

He was lucky that the caravan leader looked after him. If it weren't for that, I don't think he would have lasted so long.

Tolfin:

He only charged nominal fees for making and repairing machinery. Sometimes he even did it for free. He did the same when it came to teaching others about machines, sharing his knowledge without reserve.

Tolfin:

The children in the caravan loved him too, because he had endless stories to tell... Though I should clarify, I could go toe to toe with him on that.

Tolfin:

Too bad I didn't prepare candies for my audience like he did, though. His little listeners were, without exception, all captivated by the sweet candies and fantastical stories.

Paimon:

Now you've gotten Paimon all curious about meeting him! It must've been fun listening to his stories... Oh, Paimon wants to hear about how he found the Proof of the Cognoscenti!

Tolfin:

Unfortunately, he's no longer with us.

Paimon:

Huh? But you were saying...

Tolfin:

He built all the mechanical devices here for a child called Tinet. She was rendered eccentric and hard to get along with by an illness that tormented her.

Tolfin:

It took Papa Wrench quite some time to get close to her, too. These devices were originally made to make her happy and fulfill a small wish of hers...

Tolfin:

But that poor child didn't make it. After that, Papa Wrench also passed away from his chronic illness and overwhelming grief.

Danyusha Shesternin:

*sigh*... How do you have so many sad stories to tell?

Tolfin:

Madam, you're mistaken. Other than tragedies, I also have plenty of stories about righteous bandits robbing the rich to help the poor and tales of underdogs getting their revenge to share. But for now...

Tolfin:

Perhaps the two of you could provide some story material. How about a family-friendly treasure-hunting tale? The treasure in this case would, of course, be the Proof of the Cognoscenti that Papa Wrench left behind.

Tolfin:

He once said that, should he pass, all his belongings would be mine to handle as I see fit. I'm sure he wouldn't mind a couple of adventurers taking it in exchange for a great story.

Tolfin:

"After a thrilling adventure by the mirror-sheened Blue Amber Lake, the two adventurers find the treasure at last." Cliche, perhaps, but a captivating evergreen tale nonetheless.

Tolfin:

What do you think?

Paimon:

In that case, we'd be happy to. But umm, rather than our story, could you tell us more about Papa Wrench later?

Tolfin:

Haha, no problem. Like I said, all the mechanical devices here were built to make Tinet happy. According to Papa Wrench's vision...

Tolfin:

Tinet would need go on a quest like a true adventurer — she'd have to collect lots of Stellafruit, deliver them to Sergeant Octopus, and pass the trial to awaken Colonel Iron Whale.

Tolfin:

Then, the "Proof of the Cognoscenti" would be her reward. Hmm, that's all the hints I can give for now. If you two run into any difficulty, just think of this as extra spice in our story.

Paimon:

It's alright, Papa Wrench wouldn't make anything too tough on purpose, right? This should be way easier than those mechanisms in the ruins.

Tolfin:

Alright, then! Show me what you're capable of. Sergeant Octopus has command over two areas, and you can start the challenge from either one.

Tolfin:

As for you, Mr. and Mrs. Shesternin, since you're just passing through and don't intend to be held up by this treasure hunt, please excuse me if I accompany you no further.

Zhorik Shesternin:

...Of course, but we'll stay here for a little while longer.

Tolfin:

Stellafruit only grow near Blue Amber Lake, and the climate here is indeed very different from everywhere else. The atmosphere in the air... is beyond words.

Tolfin:

You need to deliver enough Stellafruit before Sergeant Octopus will reveal the trial's contents. Well, since this is a fairy tale, I suppose it doesn't really count as "bribery."

Zhorik Shesternin:

It must be here...

Traveler:

What are you doing here?

Zhorik Shesternin:

Not much. I just wanted to watch your treasure hunt from the place with the best view.

Danyusha Shesternin:

Will I make it in time...?

Traveler:

Are you leaving?

Danyusha Shesternin:

...Oh! Yes, yes. I left something important in Nasha Town, so I should go back...

Tolfin:

It seems the device for awakening Colonel Iron Whale is missing some parts. That figures. Even guarded treasures are coveted by others, let alone unguarded ones.

Zhorik Shesternin:

So the Proof of the Cognoscenti... the treasure is hidden here?

Tolfin:

It's certainly nearby, but...

Zhorik Shesternin:

Why don't we just take it apart, then? It's little more than a pile of scrap anyway. This way, you won't have to play this little game of pretend anymore. Why not just make things easier?

Paimon:

Hey! That's... Um, Paimon doesn't think that's right. Papa Wrench poured his heart into this after all. If we can just find the missing parts...

Tolfin:

If we're talking about spare parts, I might have some leads.

Paimon:

Wow, are you really giving us clues just like that?

Tolfin:

It's not unusual to receive aid from mysterious characters in stories, right? Mr. Shesternin, if you're also interested in the treasure's whereabouts, it's not too late to join us...

Zhorik Shesternin:

Hah! I... I'm a collector, so of course I'm interested in the Proof of the Cognoscenti, but I won't play along with your childish games.

Tolfin:

Well, you can certainly try to challenge Colonel Iron Whale your way. Let's see who can locate the treasure first. As for you, adventurers, please follow me.

Tolfin:

Papa Wrench's workshop is down this way. You should be able to find the spare parts there.

Paimon:

Then all we need to do is activate the lift, right? Paimon's got this... Huh? Where's the lever?

Paimon:

Ah! A weasel thief!? Did it steal the lever?

Tolfin:

Well, this is... unexpected. Don't worry, I'll handle things from here.

Paimon:

You? But...

Tolfin:

Huginn! It's your turn to shine.

Paimon:

Eh!? And where did you come from!?

Tolfin:

It's not that unusual for traveling merchants to have a few clever companions, no? Quickly, let's catch up to it.

Zhorik Shesternin:

Just a hunk of metal junk...

Paimon:

Huh? What's going on here?

Tolfin:

Hmm, it seems Sergeant Octopus isn't feeling well. Perhaps it's getting aggressive because it's not used to the environment. After all, underground caves aren't exactly where octopuses usually hang out.

Paimon:

Your power is essential in awakening Colonel Iron Whale, Sergeant!... Um, so how exactly do we make it stop?

Tolfin:

Looks like we'll have to get closer to make it stop. Well then, I'll leave it to you, 旅人 and Paimon.

Tolfin:

Should I recite a few silly limericks to set the mood? Hmm, perhaps not.

Paimon:

Phew, it finally stopped. Maybe this guy needs a demotion to "Corporal Octopus"!

Paimon:

It's safe now, 旅人. Let's look around for the spare parts.

Three humans and a weasel search up and down, until you finally find the spare parts...

Paimon:

Awesome! Now we can go and wake Colonel Iron Whale up, right?

Paimon:

Wh—What's going on? Ah! The path we came from has been blocked!

Tolfin:

Oh? It looks like this is becoming quite the spicy story.

Paimon:

Whether it's food or adventure, too much spice is bad news!

Tolfin:

Don't worry, leave it to Huginn. Treasure-hunting isn't all it can do — it's also good at pathfinding.

Tolfin:

You see? Just follow its lead, and we're bound to find something good.

Paimon:

Oh, you... You're not gonna do anything yourself, are you? It's been on us or your Weasel Thief this whole time.

Tolfin:

Haha, I suppose it's a kind of family tradition. Those who are bolder oft shall lead the charge, while all we can do is chronicle their feats and sing their praises.

Tolfin:

Alright, our adventure isn't over yet. The Proof of the Cognoscenti awaits, so let's head out now.

Zhorik Shesternin:

So, you found the spare parts?

Paimon:

Hehe, we won! The Proof of the Cognoscenti is ours now!

Zhorik Shesternin:

W—Well... congratulations. But are you really going to activate the device right now? This thing looks like it's been out of use for a while, there might be some malfunction...

Tolfin:

Mr. Shesternin, are you worried that such a malfunction might hurt one of us? How thoughtful. However, with the treasure within our reach, it would be too much to ask us to simply ignore it.

Paimon:

Yeah, that's right! 旅人, let's install the parts and start it up right now!

Tolfin:

It's a shame that Tinet couldn't see all this with her own eyes. She would have loved it.

Zhorik Shesternin:

Maybe there are others...

Paimon:

Those shiny things we collected earlier... they look like pictures. But where's the Proof of the Cognoscenti? Paimon doesn't see anything like that at all...

Paimon:

If someone already took it, then that guy was leading us around all this time, wasn't he? Ugh. That's it. That's one score we've gotta settle!

Paimon:

Hmm... Not that we can do anything about that right now, though. Let's go back first!

Zhorik Shesternin:

Haha, you're too late. You didn't find the Proof of the Cognoscenti up there, did you?

Paimon:

Huh? How did you...

Traveler:

Sure, but we found something more precious still!

Zhorik Shesternin:

More precious? Impossible...

Traveler:

(Judging by that smug look he's wearing, he probably found the Proof ahead of us. Might as well try to trick him here...)

Tolfin:

(Oh? You want me to play along with your little act, then?)

Tolfin:

Well... there are five Proofs of the Cognoscenti after all, nor would locating the Great Treasure be a simple affair even after one collects them all.

Tolfin:

So... I would hardly be surprised if something in Papa Wrench's collection could far surpass a single Proof in value.

Zhorik Shesternin:

...Such an item exists?

Paimon:

O—Of course! You could call it priceless, even!

Paimon:

(Paimon has no idea what 旅人's up to, but... That isn't exactly a lie, right? Memories are priceless! Besides...)

Paimon:

...J—Just ask Tolfin or something. He'd pick what we've got over the Proof for sure!

Zhorik Shesternin:

And what would a wandering merchant like him know? ... Aha! I get it now, brat. You're bitter because you lost, aren't you? You're upset that I didn't need to play your little game to get the treasure.

Zhorik Shesternin:

I happen to be in a good mood, so I'll pass this advice to you for free: Forget about the rules. People who stick to them hardly ever get the life they desire.

Zhorik Shesternin:

Fortune favors those who think outside the box, like me. See? You did all that work, in the end, you still couldn't find the Proof of the Cognoscenti.

Zhorik takes out a pristine and opulent goblet. It is hard to believe that it also belonged to Papa Wrench's collection...

Tolfin:

Ah, yes. It is indeed true that one of the five Proofs of the Cognoscenti is a goblet. But as far as I know, that one is in the Fatui's possession. Many treasure hunters have their eyes on it, in fact.

Tolfin:

The Proof that Papa Wrench found was a mask, and he would often let the children play with it.

Tolfin:

As for this goblet... I do believe it's a gift the caravan leader brought from Snezhnograd. Ah, but Papa Wrench never could bring himself to use such a precious thing.

Tolfin:

It's valuable, of course, but nothing compared to the Proof of the Cognoscenti... Which in turn makes it even less valuable than the treasure 旅人 found, I fear.

Zhorik Shesternin:

That's impossible...

Tolfin:

It appears even a seasoned collector such as you can be mistaken at times, Mr. Shesternin. If it sets your mind at ease, you are free to find an appraiser for it when you return to Novokitezhgrad.

Zhorik Shesternin:

...Where is the real Proof of the Cognoscenti then? No... forget that. What's the treasure you spoke of, kid? The one you claim is the superior find...

Zhorik Shesternin:

You may have beaten me, but I shan't accept it until you've shown me what you found.

Paimon:

Huh? Th—That's...

Paimon:

(The picture and memories might be priceless to Tolfin, but could we really say something like "This is the most valuable treasure!" without embarrassing ourselves!?)

Paimon:

(Hurry, 旅人! Think of something!)

Traveler:

(Since there's more to what happened aboard the "Fortunate One" ten years ago...)

Traveler:

Before we show you, take a look at this.

You show the picture from earlier to Zhorik...

Zhorik Shesternin:

...What is this trickery!? Who commissioned you to do this? Was it that old man? Is he still alive? Where is he!?

Paimon:

So you *are* the Zhorik that Papa Wrench mentioned!

Zhorik Shesternin:

"Papa Wrench"... So, he lured me here with a fake name so he can have his revenge, is that it? You think you can take me?

Paimon:

Revenge? What are you talking about?... Wait, so the one who pushed Papa Wrench off the ship was...

Zhorik Shesternin:

Drop the act. You're all working for that old man, aren't you? Wait... Does Danyusha know? Is she in on this too?

Zhorik Shesternin:

That woman... She agreed so quickly because she knew this was a trap all along, didn't she? Offering to deliver the letter, doing all that, just to isolate me...?

Zhorik Shesternin:

No. Not one of you will ever get me! Not you, and not that old man!

Zhorik scurries away, not even bothering with the precious goblet he mistook for the Proof of the Cognoscenti...

Paimon:

Are you just letting him go? We don't have any grudge against him, but isn't Papa Wrench your friend?

Tolfin:

Don't worry. The path he took looks most dangerous. I would not be surprised if something happens to him.

Paimon:

What do you mean...?

Tolfin:

I mean that Papa Wrench has many other friends aside from me. Besides, who doesn't love a story where justice is served?

Tolfin:

I'm afraid ten years wasn't long enough to change his ways. If he had proven himself a changed man, even just a little, then I would have forgiven him, per Papa Wrench's wishes.

Tolfin:

Alas, like many others, he too is a prisoner to his baser instincts. What a tragedy.

Tolfin:

...What saddens me more is the lack of a winner in our little treasure-hunting game. *sigh* No new story material for me, then.

Paimon:

Oh! Paimon almost forgot — where exactly is the Proof of the Cognoscenti? Will we find it here? Um... can we ask Huginn for help?

Tolfin:

Might this be what you're looking for?

Paimon:

A mask... Is this it!? But how... You had it on you this whole time?

Tolfin:

Haha, not quite. Zhorik did find it first, but he thought the flashier, fancier goblet was the real Proof, so he tossed the mask aside.

Tolfin:

And now that he's forfeited it, the treasure is yours.

Paimon:

Feels like a freebie... but wait! We worked hard for it too! It's our just reward!

Tolfin:

That's right. If you end up revealing the Great Treasure's secrets... Well, that would make for a fascinating story.

Zhorik Shesternin:

Haha, you're too late. You didn't find the Proof of the Cognoscenti up there, did you?

Paimon:

Huh? How did you...

Traveler:

Sure, but we found something more precious still!

Zhorik Shesternin:

More precious? Impossible...

Traveler:

(Judging by that smug look he's wearing, he probably found the Proof ahead of us. Might as well try to trick him here...)

Tolfin:

(Oh? You want me to play along with your little act, then?)

Tolfin:

Well... there are five Proofs of the Cognoscenti after all, nor would locating the Great Treasure be a simple affair even after one collects them all.

Tolfin:

So... I would hardly be surprised if something in Papa Wrench's collection could far surpass a single Proof in value.

Zhorik Shesternin:

...Such an item exists?

Paimon:

O—Of course! You could call it priceless, even!

Paimon:

(Paimon has no idea what 旅人's up to, but... That isn't exactly a lie, right? Memories are priceless! Besides...)

Paimon:

...J—Just ask Tolfin or something. He'd pick what we've got over the Proof for sure!

Zhorik Shesternin:

I happen to be in a good mood, so I'll pass this advice to you for free: Forget about the rules. People who stick to them hardly ever get the life they desire.

Zhorik Shesternin:

Fortune favors those who think outside the box, like me. See? You did all that work, in the end, you still couldn't find the Proof of the Cognoscenti.

Zhorik takes out a pristine and opulent goblet. It is hard to believe that it also belonged to Papa Wrench's collection...

Tolfin:

Now, now. It is indeed true that one of the five Proofs of the Cognoscenti is a goblet. But as far as I know, that one is in the Fatui's possession — or was, before someone stole it from them.

Traveler:

Ooh, and would you look at that? It's right here in my backpack.

Tolfin:

Haha, it seems your fate and Reed Miller's were destined to intersect.

Tolfin:

The Proof that Papa Wrench found was a mask, and he would often let the children play with it.

Tolfin:

As for this goblet... I do believe it's a gift the caravan leader brought from Snezhnograd. Ah, but Papa Wrench never could bring himself to use such a precious thing.

Tolfin:

It's valuable, of course, but nothing compared to the Proof of the Cognoscenti... Which in turn makes it even less valuable than the treasure 旅人 found, I fear.

Zhorik Shesternin:

That's impossible...

Tolfin:

It appears even a seasoned collector such as you can be mistaken at times, Mr. Shesternin. If it sets your mind at ease, you are free to find an appraiser for it when you return to Novokitezhgrad.

Zhorik Shesternin:

...Where is the real Proof of the Cognoscenti then? No... forget that. What's the treasure you spoke of, kid? The one you claim is the superior find...

Zhorik Shesternin:

You may have beaten me, but I shan't accept it until you've shown me what you found.

Paimon:

Huh? Th—That's...

Paimon:

(The picture and memories might be priceless to Tolfin, but could we really say something like "This is the most valuable treasure!" without embarrassing ourselves!?)

Paimon:

(Hurry, 旅人! Think of something!)

Traveler:

(Since there's more to what happened aboard the "Fortunate One" ten years ago...)

Traveler:

Before we show you, take a look at this.

You show the picture from earlier to Zhorik...

Zhorik Shesternin:

...What is this trickery!? Who commissioned you to do this? Was it that old man? Is he still alive? Where is he!?

Paimon:

So you *are* the Zhorik that Papa Wrench mentioned!

Zhorik Shesternin:

"Papa Wrench"... So, he lured me here with a fake name so he can have his revenge, is that it? You think you can take me?

Paimon:

Revenge? What are you talking about?... Wait, so the one who pushed Papa Wrench off the ship was...

Zhorik Shesternin:

Drop the act. You're all working for that old man, aren't you? Wait... Does Danyusha know? Is she in on this too?

Zhorik Shesternin:

That woman... She agreed so quickly because she knew this was a trap all along, didn't she? Offering to deliver the letter, doing all that, just to isolate me...?

Zhorik Shesternin:

No. Not one of you will ever get me! Not you, and not that old man!

Zhorik scurries away, not even bothering with the precious goblet he mistook for the Proof of the Cognoscenti...

Paimon:

Are you just letting him go? We don't have any grudge against him, but isn't Papa Wrench your friend?

Tolfin:

Don't worry. The path he took looks most dangerous. I would not be surprised if something happens to him.

Paimon:

What do you mean...?

Tolfin:

I mean that Papa Wrench has many other friends aside from me. Besides, who doesn't love a story where justice is served?

Tolfin:

I'm afraid ten years wasn't long enough to change his ways. If he had proven himself a changed man, even just a little, then I would have forgiven him, per Papa Wrench's wishes.

Tolfin:

Alas, like many others, he too is a prisoner to his baser instincts. What a tragedy.

Tolfin:

...What saddens me more is the lack of a winner in our little treasure-hunting game. *sigh* No new story material for me, then.

Paimon:

Oh! Paimon almost forgot — where exactly is the Proof of the Cognoscenti? Will we find it here? Um... can we ask Huginn for help?

Tolfin:

Might this be what you're looking for?

Paimon:

A mask... Is this it!? But how... You had it on you this whole time?

Tolfin:

Haha, not quite. Zhorik did find it first, but he thought the flashier, fancier goblet was the real Proof, so he tossed the mask aside.

Tolfin:

And now that he's forfeited it, the treasure is yours.

Paimon:

Feels like a freebie... but wait! We worked hard for it too! It's our just reward!

Tolfin:

That's right. If you end up revealing the Great Treasure's secrets... Well, that would make for a fascinating story.

Tolfin:

This must've been the gift that Papa Wrench wanted to give to Tinet... Shocking.

Paimon:

Did something shiny just fly upward...? W—Was that the Proof of the Cognoscenti!?

Traveler:

I'll go up and take a look.

Zhorik Shesternin:

You can climb up that thing?

Paimon:

Can we even call ourselves adventurers if we can't even manage that? Hmm, even if 旅人 can't do it, Paimon sure can!

Tolfin:

What reliable companions you are. Well then, I hope to hear good news from you soon!

Tolfin:

I guess I'll come visit Colonel Iron Whale from time to time.

Tolfin:

They make for great stories, so I do know a thing or two. Allegedly, there are five Proofs of the Cognoscenti in total.

Tolfin:

Besides the one Papa Wrench had, there are two more on the three southern islands. The remaining two are further north. You might find more clues about them in Piramida.

Tolfin:

If you're also interested in the Great Treasure, you might want to keep an eye out for them.

Paimon:

(test)Readable Placeholder

Paimon:

This isn't a spare part... Did Papa Wrench leave this here? So it's like Tolfin said. He stayed for Tinet's sake...

Tolfin:

I didn't expect Huginn to dig up something like this. But judging by your words... Did you doubt what I said?

Traveler:

Well, they did come from someone who'd give away a friend's treasure...

Paimon:

...Huh. When you put it like that, 旅人, it does sound suspicious! P—Paimon was just playing along earlier, just so you know! We had to see what tricks you had up your sleeve!

Paimon:

What are you planning now, bringing us to this place?... Best be warned, 旅人's super strong!

Tolfin:

Haha. To me, you are both unexpected guests, but great "spices" for the story all the same. I can hardly thank you enough. Why would I ever mean you harm?

Tolfin:

Well then, let's keep searching for the spare parts. I really don't know where Papa Wrench left the Proof of the Cognoscenti, so it's all on you now.

Paimon:

(test)Readable Placeholder

Paimon:

Same handwriting as earlier... Wait, Danyusha... Zhorik?

Paimon:

Is Danyusha Papa Wrench's daughter, then? But Paimon thought he fell into the sea because of an accident that happened ten years ago aboard the Fortunate One.

Tolfin:

*sigh* Huginn, you just had to dig this page out, didn't you? I guess I have no choice but to...

Paimon:

Paimon knew you were up to no good! 旅人, draw your sword, quick!

Tolfin:

...No choice but to tell you all my plans now, and ask that you pretend you know nothing from this point on.

Paimon:

...Huh?

Tolfin:

I was there the day Papa Wrench saw the obituary. He had a strange look on his face, so I asked him about the matter. Even so, he kept insisting that he couldn't remember the details from ten years ago.

Tolfin:

Always assuming the best of others... That's just the way he was. Besides, he had Tinet to care for, so everything else took a backseat.

Tolfin:

After he passed, I kept my ear to the ground, and what do you know? News reached me that the Shesternins had exhausted their wealth over the last ten years and had landed in serious debt.

Tolfin:

So, I sent a messenger to tell a story. "Have you heard? The Proof of the Cognoscenti that can lead you to the Great Treasure is at the Blue Amber Lake in Nod-Krai"...

Traveler:

You were going to give him the Proof of the Cognoscenti?

Tolfin:

Technically, it is Papa Wrench... Mr. Shesternin Sr.'s inheritance. As his legal heir, Zhorik has the right to it.

Tolfin:

I'm not as charitable as ol' Papa, but I wanted to give Zhorik a chance to prove himself. And that's how the treasure hunt came to be.

Tolfin:

He's not interested in the story or the setting, but he seems determined to get the Proof all the same. It's entirely possible that he might find it before you two.

Paimon:

That won't do!

Tolfin:

Indeed. Therefore, my plan is to ask you to interfere with the process... or should I say, "finders keepers" — as long as you get it before him, of course.

Tolfin:

Though if your conscience permits, you can let him find it first before taking it off his hands. Not a terrible strategy either, that.

Paimon:

So that's your plan... Paimon doesn't get it! Do you want him to have it or not? And, what if we didn't come this way? What was your original plan?

Tolfin:

A scheme abandoned hardly matters in the present, does it? I have great faith in your treasure-hunting skills.

Tolfin:

When we go back out, please pretend you've heard nothing. It would not do for me to appear biased, after all.

Whisper Beneath the Waves

You discover a strange tree at the Eye of Kratti...

Ilmari:

Another day, another empty bucket.

Ilmari:

Fishing. Though so far, I've only caught things that aren't fish.

Ilmari:

If it were knick-knacks from shipwrecks, that'd be fine, 'cause traveling merchants would buy those. I once pulled up a boot with half a... *sigh* Forget it. Talking about stuff like that will scare the fish off.

Paimon:

旅人, do you feel okay? Paimon's getting a little dizzy over here...

Paimon:

Huh... Paimon thinks she just heard someone talking...

Paimon:

Wow... There's a bunch of those shiny little things we saw earlier! Wait, where are we, anyway?

Paimon:

Could it be we've circled round to right under that weird tree? And those green things... what even are they?

Ilmari:

How strange... How very strange...

Ilmari:

Now that's strange...

Ilmari:

Did you see that? The tree just lit up all of a sudden, and these little things... Too bad they're not fish.

Paimon:

So that thing in the center must be its root, huh? Paimon doesn't understand how it works, but now that it's all shiny, it looks way better than when it was dull.

You explain what happened earlier...

Ilmari:

It's pretty hard to believe... But you've got no reason to spin me a yarn. Looks like that fishing buddy of mine, that half-Frostmoon Scion, was right after all.

Ilmari:

But so what? They're just remnants of the past. Whatever they sing or say, it's not gonna stop us living folks from catching living fish.

Ilmari:

Anyway, you folks are treasure hunters, aren't you? That thing you picked up earlier...

Paimon:

This is the Proof of the Cognoscenti? It looks like an ordinary feather...

Ilmari:

A trader I know once said that if you collect five Proofs of the Cognoscenti, you'll uncover that "Great Treasure" east of the moon and west of the sun. Who knows if it's true?

Ilmari:

Still, a lot of treasure hunters seem to believe the stories. They're all rushing after it like crazy.

Paimon:

Well, it's treasure, after all! If you ask Paimon, she's kinda curious too.

Ilmari:

If I were 20 years younger... Nah, even then, I'd still be out here fishing. That said, another day, another empty bucket...

Return to Sender

You hear a strange recording about the "apocalypse" at the lake to the west of Piramida...

Ancient Terminal:

Maintenance complete. Apocalypse Purification System: Operating Normally. Key card unlocked.

Ancient Terminal:

Don't forget to retrieve your key card. Have a wonderful day.

Paimon:

Huh, this time, the key card's golden...

Paimon:

That terminal report before mentioned signs of large monster activity in Research Zone 2... There's no way it could be talking about the one we just saw, surely?

Paimon:

Ugh, Paimon doesn't get it. For now, let's head back to the terminal and see what this card unlocks.

Ancient Terminal:

Unregistered residents detected. Initiating standard safety inspection protocol...

Ancient Terminal:

Scan complete. Multiple dangerous items detected. For the safety of other residents, please place all weapons and dangerous items into the designated receptacles.

Paimon:

Huh? It wants us to hand over our weapons!?

Ancient Terminal:

I apologize for any inconvenience. The purpose of confiscating dangerous items is to ensure the absolute safety of the bunker's residents. Your items will be safely stored. You can retrieve your belongings when you leave.

Ancient Terminal:

If you have any safety concerns, please rest assured, the bunker is equipped with the most advanced Apocalypse Purification System available. You will encounter no danger here.

Ancient Terminal:

In the name of Professor (...), I guarantee that no matter what monsters rage beyond the sky's veil, they will not infiltrate our Elysium.

Paimon:

Uhm, beyond the sky's veil? Aren't we at the bottom of the sea?

Ancient Terminal:

...

Paimon:

Oh, Paimon gets it! It's like those novels in Nasha Town — the "apocalypse" is talking about aliens coming to invade Teyvat...

Paimon:

Paimon was only joking! Even if there were invaders from beyond the sky, they wouldn't invade a place like this... Uhm, would they?

Paimon:

Besides, since it's a safe bunker, it seems reasonable to take our weapons off for now, right? Unless they're secretly doing bad things in here...

Paimon:

Like deliberately providing really yucky food... or occasionally breaking the water purifier on purpose... or... locking the main entrance and trapping everyone inside forever...

Ancient Terminal:

Please be assured. This bunker is designed to provide absolute safety. All residents are free to leave at any time they wish.

Paimon:

Well, since the mysterious mechanism says it's all above board... Paimon thinks we should trust it, right, 旅人?

Ancient Terminal:

Thank you for your cooperation. All dangerous items have been collected. Scan complete. No threats detected. Standard safety inspection protocol complete.

Ancient Terminal:

Welcome to the bunker at the end of the apocalypse.

Ancient Terminal:

"...Welcome to Bunker No. (...), friends from afar..."

Ancient Terminal:

"...If you are listening to this recording, it means that the apocalypse is imminent..."

Paimon:

Whoa! Paimon almost died of fright. She didn't realize this thing could talk! Whoa, whoa, whoa, Paimon's missing something — did it just say something super scary that went right over Paimon's head?

Ancient Terminal:

"...Fortunately, you have found this bunker, and we are grateful to have you here... together... in the bunker at the end of the apocalypse..."

Ancient Terminal:

"...Please... use the key card... The lift connects... safe... take... to the bunker..."

Paimon:

Whoa, did the mechanism just break? All that fuzzy noise drowned out her voice. Paimon couldn't hear what she was saying...

Paimon:

Paimon can't figure out what this place is... 旅人, why don't we go inside and take a look?

Bunker Access Terminal Server:

Maintenance order for Research Zone 1 complete. Expected duration exceeded by: 3,942,176 hour(s). A report of negligent conduct has been issued to the supervisory authority.

Paimon:

H—How many hours? Whoa, Paimon can only remember the first number. How many others were there after that three?

Bunker Access Terminal Server:

Access updated: Senior Technician Kotelnikov. Welcome to the Bunker Access Terminal Server.

Paimon:

Huh? Does this thing think we're the maintenance worker sent to repair the purification system...?

Paimon:

Paimon guesses that means we can access more places now! Let's see... This one appears to be Research Zone 2?

Traveler:

(Check on the status of Research Zone 2.)

Bunker Access Terminal Server:

Generating status report. Please wait.

Bunker Access Terminal Server:

Research Zone 2: Warning. High concentrations of Abyssal contamination and signs of the "Ultimate Calamity" have been detected.

Bunker Access Terminal Server:

Apocalypse Purification System: Damaged. Senior Technician Kotelnikov, please proceed to perform repairs under the protection of a guard escort.

Paimon:

A guard escort? Paimon doesn't see any guards around here... Wait a second — what did it say has been detected?

Paimon:

But if the "apocalypse" is actually just an Abyssal monster, then it's probably the source of this place's contamination...

Paimon:

If we can take it down, the Abyssal contamination here should be cleaned up once and for all, right? 旅人, let's head to Research Zone 2!

Bunker Access Terminal Server:

Access granted. Welcome to the Bunker Access Terminal Server.

Paimon:

Let me see... This looks like a map of the bunker...

Paimon:

But the key card we got last time seems to only give us access to Research Zone 1...

Traveler:

(Check on the status of Research Zone 1.)

Bunker Access Terminal Server:

Generating status report. Please wait.

Bunker Access Terminal Server:

Research Zone 1: Warning. High concentrations of Abyssal contamination detected. Current risk of overflow: Extreme.

Bunker Access Terminal Server:

Apocalypse Purification System: Blocked. Maintenance personnel have been dispatched.

Bunker Access Terminal Server:

Time elapsed since previous maintenance request: Error standard hour(s). Please do not panic, resident. Stay calm and await supervisory instructions.

Paimon:

Ugh! This purification system is completely useless!

Paimon:

Okay, Paimon thinks she understands now — the "apocalypse" is actually Abyssal contamination, right? *sigh* This bunker was built to keep out the Abyss, but the contamination inside ended up being worse than anything out there...

Paimon:

旅人, we've got to figure out a way to deal with this. Otherwise, the contamination could spill out...

Traveler:

Let's take a look around Research Zone 1.

Paimon:

Alright, let's go!

Ancient Terminal:

Maintenance complete. Apocalypse Purification System: Operating Normally. Key card unlocked.

Ancient Terminal:

Don't forget to retrieve your key card. Have a wonderful day.

Paimon:

Huh? Looking closely, this card seems to be a different color from the one we got earlier.

Paimon:

Paimon doesn't know who left it here, but we should take it. Maybe we can find its owner... Oh, right, there doesn't seem to be anyone else here...

Bunker Access Terminal Server:

Access updated: Senior Researcher Grazina. Welcome to the Bunker Access Terminal Server.

Paimon:

Hey! It looks like that key card we just picked up still works!

Paimon:

Which makes Paimon think, this Grazina person must have been a pretty big deal — they seem to have had access to the entire bunker...

Paimon:

Hmm, it looks like the only place we haven't been to yet is the Supervisory Office.

Paimon:

If that "apocalypse" thing is still hanging around, this is the only place it could be. Hmm, Paimon thinks that whatever it is, it's probably not that scary, since scary things wouldn't want to hide from us!

Paimon:

Alright, let's go check out the Supervisory Office!

Paimon:

Phew... That's that dealt with. What an annoying little...

Paimon:

It seemed convinced Teyvat was destroyed, and we were outside the sky...

Paimon:

Ugh! Let's just forget about that idiot! Right, it looks like we've dealt with that thing — whether it was an apocalypse or just the Abyss!

Paimon:

Yeah, and we'd better give credit to that researcher named Grazina, right? Paimon wonders what happened to her...

Paimon:

Alright, that just about wraps everything— Huh? Wait! What's this?

Paimon:

Hmm... Paimon doesn't get it. So this thing is the "Proof of the Cognoscenti"?

Paimon:

It's a little rusty, but it still looks like a super expensive antique... Could this thing hold some special meaning for the Treasure Hoarders?

Paimon:

旅人, we'd better take it with us! Paimon has a feeling it's gonna come in handy!

Paimon:

Phew... That's that dealt with. What an annoying little...

Paimon:

It seemed convinced Teyvat was destroyed, and we were outside the sky...

Paimon:

Ugh! Let's just forget about that idiot! Right, it looks like we've dealt with that thing — whether it was an apocalypse or just the Abyss!

Paimon:

Yeah, and we'd better give credit to that researcher named Grazina, right? Paimon wonders what happened to her...

Paimon:

Alright, that just about wraps everything— Huh? Wait! What's this?

Paimon:

P—Proof of the Cognoscenti!? What's that doing in a place like this...

Paimon:

And it looks like it was left by Reed Miller himself... This means we're one step closer to the Great Treasure!

Paimon:

Hehe, Paimon can't wait to find out what it is!

Ultimate Calamity:

Grazina...? You backstabbing snake, how dare you show yourself before me...

Paimon:

Whoa, 旅人, watch out! That monster seems to have been lured out!

Ultimate Calamity:

No, no, you're not Grazina... I can't detect your scent. What are you? A living being, or another spirit flying aimlessly across the bedeviled sky?

Ultimate Calamity:

No living creature can enter this grave... Their grave, our grave. Answer me! Did Professor Rotwang send you here? Has my master forgiven me?

Ultimate Calamity:

Apocalypse? Apocalypse! Heh... Haha... Look at the world out there! The apocalypse has already descended upon us!

Ultimate Calamity:

Young Solovei tried to stop it, and Brahe, who impersonated Reed Miller. Even that treacherous snake, Grazina — she tried to stop it, too... But their efforts were all in vain. It came... It still came!

Ultimate Calamity:

My master... Professor Rotwang... reduced that pathetic world to ashes with the "SAMPO." After all that destruction, this bunker is all that remains, isolated amid the bedeviled sky...

Ultimate Calamity:

The world outside is nothing but a casket for things beyond their time... I know not from whence you came, but I have already broken free of the celestial shell, no longer to suffer the shackles of gravity and fate!

Ultimate Calamity:

And you? You are no servant of my master, yet neither are you just another fool... Will you join us — become one with our flesh and our blood — or will you welcome death right here?

Ultimate Calamity:

Join...

Ultimate Calamity:

Or die?

Traveler:

The world hasn't been destroyed. You're at the bottom of the sea.

Ultimate Calamity:

Enough! Cease your vicious lies, vile desecrater! My master would not deceive me — we exist amid the bedeviled sky!

Ultimate Calamity:

Let them be interred in the ruins of that extinguished world. Only we shall continue our existence amid the bedeviled sky — Master, bear witness!

Paimon:

Ugh, there's no other way. 旅人, let's try using these plants to deal with it!

The Raven's Legacy

The Great Treasure is within reach...

Paimon:

Tolfin! What are you doing here?

Tolfin:

Ah, fantastic, just the duo I was waiting for.

Paimon:

Huh? How did you know we would come here? H—Have you been following us since we parted at Blue Amber Lake!?

Tolfin:

Haha! I was only joking. I came back to visit my parents and just so happened to be running errands here in Piramida when I spotted the two of you.

Paimon:

Paimon sees... Huh? So you have family here?

Tolfin:

What's strange about that? Just like a raven is born to raven parents, people don't magically appear out of thin air.

Paimon:

That's not what Paimon meant! Hmm... Though come to think of it, we're not really that close, and Paimon can see how it was kind of a personal question...

Traveler:

Can I ask a question that isn't so personal?

Paimon:

Good idea! Tolfin knows everyone and everything — he just might have the info we need.

You recount your experiences searching for, and finding, the Proofs of the Cognoscenti after leaving Blue Amber Lake...

Paimon:

So Tolfin, do you have any idea where the last Proof of the Cognoscenti might be?

Tolfin:

I do have a few thoughts, however...

Tolfin:

Hmm, seeing as it's 旅人, he'll probably be fine. From everything I've heard about your adventures, I believe he should be able to overcome the trial.

Tolfin:

Of course not. Besides, I have total confidence in your abilities, 旅人.

Tolfin:

Ahem, the last Proof of the Cognoscenti is actually with my grandmother. I'm on my way to visit her now — why don't you tag along?

Paimon:

Seriously?! What are the chances? Tolfin's grandmother... What do you think she's like, 旅人? Do you think she's the kind of sweet old lady who loves to tell stories?

Tolfin:

She does tell stories, but... Never mind, you'll see when we get there.

Hiljetta:

Well, well, well, look who's remembered to visit! Did you take care of that matter for me, you little brat?

Tolfin:

Of course I did! Would I dare show my face here if I hadn't?

Tolfin:

Ahem... This is my grandmother. Though I'm sure she'd rather be known as "Hiljetta, the Black-Barrel Hag" than "a failed merchant's grandmother."

Paimon:

She doesn't look anything like Tolfin at all... She's far too serious...

Tolfin:

I hear that a lot. But at the end of the day, we're family, and we're a lot more alike than people think.

Tolfin:

This is 旅人, and this is Paimon. They've already found the other Proofs of the Cognoscenti...

Hiljetta:

Oh? So you've already found the other four? Well, that takes some real talent. But I'm afraid you're going to have to let me see that talent for myself.

Hiljetta:

Seeing as the brat brought you in, I won't make things too hard for you — how about we just trade a few moves?

Paimon:

Hold on a second! This... uhm... Something about this doesn't feel right...

Hiljetta:

And what exactly is the problem? If you want to get your hands on the Great Treasure, you'll naturally need to get past me first.

Tolfin:

She's a stubborn old bag of bones, but once she sees what you can do, everything'll be on the table. Come on, 旅人, it's in your hands now.

Hiljetta:

Not bad, not bad at all! You do have promise. Here, this is the Proof of the Cognoscenti you've been seeking. But if you want to claim the Great Treasure, there's still one final path you'll have to tread.

Hiljetta:

Not that it'll hold him back — not considering how sharp the little lad is. He's a far more fitting heir to the Treasure Hoarders than you are, ya useless lump.

Traveler:

Heir to the Treasure Hoarders? Me?

Paimon:

Huh? So Granny is a Treasure Hoarder? And Tolfin, you too?

Tolfin:

I guess you could say that.

Paimon:

Paimon never would've guessed. You don't look like a Treasure Hoarder. Don't tell Paimon you knew about this all along, 旅人?

Hiljetta:

...Don't tell me you didn't explain it to them? Were you really planning to deliver the Great Treasure to a couple of know-nothings who couldn't tell a Treasure Hoarder if they introduced themselves and brought them to their grandmother?

Tolfin:

They've shown they have what it takes to gather the Proofs of the Cognoscenti — and they handled your challenge just fine. In fact, weren't you praising them just now?

Hiljetta:

You little...

Tolfin:

Alright, alright, don't give yourself a heart attack... I'll explain everything to them right now. I'll see to it that 旅人 is willing to be the Treasure Hoarders' heir — exactly as you wanted!

Hiljetta:

Hmph! And you really think you can make all of that clear to them lickety-split?

Tolfin:

What are you so worried about? You won't shut up about how I'm just like that "good-for-nothing Brahe." At least I inherited his gift for smooth talking, didn't I?

Tolfin leads you to a quiet corner to talk...

Paimon:

So what's really going on here? All we heard is that if we collect all five Proofs of the Cognoscenti, we can find the Great Treasure hidden "East of the Moon, West of the Sun"...

Paimon:

Are you seriously telling Paimon that we'd have to take over as leaders of the Treasure Hoarders just to get Reed Miller's treasure? Honestly, all this heir talk is weirding Paimon out...

Traveler:

It's hard to imagine anyone leading the Treasure Hoarders...

Tolfin:

Exactly — there are people who call themselves Treasure Hoarders in every corner of Teyvat these days. And that's where the problem lies.

Tolfin:

While we might be able to face reality, my stubborn old grandmother still dreams of a day when the Treasure Hoarders can restore their glory from the days of Reed Miller.

Tolfin:

She fantasizes that someone will come along and rally the masses — "Let the dead bury the dead, and rise to build an Elysium for the hungry and the poor on the wealth of the high and haughty."

Tolfin:

While most of us have heard how Reed Miller stole from the rich to help the poor, very few know that the Treasure Hoarders once defended Elysium from the dark abyss...

Tolfin:

It was the Treasure Hoarders' golden age — it was the worst of times, and yet somehow it was also the best.

Tolfin:

I don't know, maybe things are still the same today. But that era has passed, and she'll have to accept that someday.

Paimon:

You're not wrong... but what are we supposed to do about it?

Tolfin:

Before we go any further, 旅人, are you willing to serve as heir to the Treasure Hoarders and see that Reed Miller's dream is one day fulfilled?

Traveler:

I have my own dreams to fulfill...

Tolfin:

Haha, just as I thought. Then how about we do it this way... Let's put on a little show!

Traveler:

Again!?

Paimon:

That's what you said back at Blue Amber Lake. Sure, you helped us get the Proof of the Cognoscenti back then... but who knows when you'll use those same sneaky tricks on us!

Tolfin:

Why would I do anything to thwart you when we're already such good friends? Now, instead of being suspicious, how about we focus on what we're going to say.

You have a brief discussion with Tolfin about how to convince Hiljetta... According to Tolfin, simply mentioning the name "Avrelian" should be enough to gain her trust, and if she ever brings up the name "Brahe," all you have to say is that you don't agree with his methods. As for who these two people actually are, Tolfin says it's a long story and promises to explain everything in detail when he gets the chance...

Hiljetta:

So, what do you say, little lad? Are you in?

Traveler:

I will fulfill Avrelian's dream.

Hiljetta:

Good! That's the spirit. If it weren't for the little brat acting just like that good-for-nothing Brahe, the Proof of the Cognoscenti wouldn't have been scattered and lost for so long.

Paimon:

We're nothing like Tolfin... or that Brahe-ma-call-it fellow! You can rest assured!

Tolfin:

*sigh* Even I have to admit that 旅人 is the most suitable candidate to inherit the Great Treasure.

Hiljetta:

Then it's settled, all that's left is for you to retrieve the Great Treasure. At the treasure site, you'll likely run into a few tricks left behind by that good-for-nothing... Hmph! I'm sure you'll be able to handle anything he came up with.

Paimon:

*sigh* Paimon still has no idea where "East of the Moon, West of the Sun" could be...

Tolfin:

Oh, that... Well, it's beyond the horizon, yet so close you can touch it. Also, I won't be joining you for the next trial, so here's wishing you all the best!

Tolfin:

Still, I'll be in Piramida for a little while longer, so please let me know if everything goes well. I'm counting on the both of you.

Relya:

Bounty Island's just up ahead. Nothing about it looks particularly special from here.

Silve:

Relya, I'm still not happy about this. I mean, the treasure here's been marked by the governor. If we take it...

Relya:

Don't worry. We still have a few more days before the drill's over, and by the time the governor notices, we'll already be in Snezhnograd. No one'll think to come after us.

Silve:

That's not what's bothering me... What if he ends up on the hook for telling us where the treasure is?

Relya:

...Who? Oh, you mean that Brahe kid. What do you care? He's had his fair share of "the honey brewed for the few."

Silve:

And I haven't?

Relya:

What are you talking about? You and that kid are nothing alike. If you were on the same side as them, you wouldn't...

Relya:

Ah! Don't worry about him, he'll be fine. He might be adopted, but he's still the governor's son. Besides, he's young — no one's gonna give him any trouble.

Silve:

I hope you're right.

Paimon:

Look, it mentions Brahe over here. Looks like he was the one who made these records.

Paimon:

So Iron Coins were really the currency here back in the day... That means a mountain of these things could truly be called a "Great Treasure."

Paimon:

Ugh, if only we'd come here a few hundred years ago, we'd be rich! But Iron Coins aren't worth much Mora these days...

Traveler:

As they say, value lies in scarcity...

Paimon:

Exactly. So if we can find this... Prototype Iron Coin he wrote about, collectors are sure to go crazy for it! Paimon bets we could get a pretty penny for that one!

Paimon:

Too bad we don't know where it's buried. Ugh... Are we really supposed to dig up this whole place by ourselves?

Traveler:

We'll get a dressing down from the Black-Barrel Hag if we don't.

Paimon:

Oh yeah... you're right. We mustn't get on the wrong side of her. You might be able to handle her attacks, but Paimon will have to fly far, far away!

Paimon:

And speaking of the Black-Barrel Hag... now that Paimon has seen Brahe's notes and all these Iron Coins, she finally understands why that old lady wants to bring back the good old days.

Traveler:

To her, those days must have been the real Elysium.

Paimon:

Paimon thinks we're living in a pretty wonderful time, too! You and Paimon, and all the friends we've met on our journey... This is our golden age!

Paimon:

That's probably how Tolfin feels as well. He chose not to share the full history of the Treasure Hoarders with us because he didn't want us to bear the weight of expectation...

Paimon:

*sigh* It looks like this adventure ends here. Getting all five Proofs of the Cognoscenti wasn't easy, and Paimon knows it was far from a fruitless journey, but she can't help feeling a little disappointed.

Paimon:

By the way... Why do you think this ship is here?

Paimon:

It would be risky to sail with all those heavy coins on board... Even if they didn't sink, they might get robbed! Oh, but this is a Treasure Hoarder ship — they're not usually the ones who would need to be scared.

Paimon:

That's such a shame. Even though this ship is hundreds of years old, it still looks almost new. Traveling would be so much easier if we had a boat as big as this, don't you think?

Traveler:

I'll be the captain, and Paimon, you can be the chief mate.

Paimon:

Aye aye, Cap'n 旅人! Tying the jib to the mizzenmast and raising the port side anchor to the load line, Cap'n!

Paimon:

Hehe, how convincing is Paimon's chief mateyness? Come on, take the helm, and let's set sail!

Tolfin:

Oh, if it isn't 旅人 and Paimon! Have you two found the Great Treasure already?

Traveler:

If you mean that pile of old Iron Coins...

Paimon:

We left those Iron Coins exactly where we found them... Well, actually, they're on top now.

You tell Tolfin what happened at the treasure site and the strange things that happened after you boarded the ship...

Paimon:

For some reason, they left behind some sort of raven insignia.

Tolfin:

It seems the earth remembers far more than we could ever imagine — as a storyteller, I can't help but feel humbled by that...

Tolfin:

After all, human life is fleeting, and oral history is prone to errors — some stories may even be lost forever. Yet the earth's memory no doubt remains true.

Tolfin:

I think it could only have been Avrelian who left that "raven insignia." You may be more familiar with another of his names — Reed Miller.

Paimon:

Huh!? You mean that was the legendary thief, Reed Miller? Paimon would never have guessed by looking at him...

Tolfin:

From what you described, the things you saw almost certainly happened before the Treasure Hoarders were even formed. It's said that back then, he liked to play the role of heroic thief with his military academy buddies, stealing from the rich and helping the poor.

Tolfin:

In fact, that raven insignia was derived from the family crest of his noble-born academy classmate.

Tolfin:

But that's all in the past, so I shalln't bore you with the details. Anyway, seeing as our fates appear to be intertwined, how about you two take this raven insignia as a keepsake?

Traveler:

I assume accepting this doesn't automatically make me the Treasure Hoarders' heir...

Tolfin:

Haha, there's no need to worry — like I said, the golden age of the Treasure Hoarders is over. However, there is still one slight problem...

Tolfin:

My stubborn grandmother seems to have taken a liking to you. If she ever asks you for a friendly sparring match, please don't turn her down — and don't pull your punches, either.

Paimon:

Whoa, she's so much stronger than a regular old lady, we wouldn't dream of doing anything but pummeling her with everything we've got!

Tolfin:

Well then, the Great Treasure buried "East of the Moon, West of the Sun" has been claimed by a pair of remarkable adventurers, and this performance, too, has come to its close.

Tolfin:

Allow me to play you a tune, to express my wish that every step of your journey be filled with mystery, and every path may bring you jubilation.

Relya:

Ha! So this is what "Bounty Island" looks like. I guess it really does live up to its name.

Silve:

What are we going to do with the loot? Same as usual? Though, if we're taking it back to Snezhnograd...

Relya:

Why not give it to the kids on the streets? I ran into them a few days ago while out on patrol. That kid with the conch shell struck me as a smart one.

Relya:

They'll know what to do with the treasure — and who best to share it with.

Silve:

Suits me, let's do it your way.

Relya:

But compared to the treasures on display in the governor's palace, these little trinkets are hardly even worth the bother...

Relya:

Hmph... Even in a backwater like this, those arrogant fools still indulge in their outrageous extravagance... Their shiny facade can't hide the fact they're already rotten to the core.

Relya:

Have you seen it yet? This place is no different from Snezhnograd.

Relya:

Are we really supposed to fight to protect people like this? And protect them from those we have no quarrel with? The unseen, the downtrodden, the despised...

Silve:

I understand your anger. But there's not much we can do.

Relya:

There's not much we can do right now. But sooner or later, we have to upturn the status quo, to weed out the corruption root and stem. I must rise to the top — by any means necessary...

Relya:

I count myself lucky to have ended up fighting by your side, Silve. But I often find myself looking back to where I came from...

Relya:

It's a place my brothers and sisters remain — where they continue to endure hardships they should never have to bear. Tell me, those innocent souls — were they born to suffer like this?

Relya:

If it's the law that is causing their suffering, then I shall rewrite the law. And if it's the corrupt nobles, then I shall purge them from their ranks!

Relya:

One day, I'll raise an Elysium that belongs to us on this land — a land that has always belonged to us!

Silve:

I believe in you, Relya. I know you can accomplish your dream.

Relya:

...Let's not talk about that now. Even thieves have their code, so I'll leave this behind. That way, the governor will know who took his treasure.

Silve:

It's just a pity I won't get to see his reaction myself.

Relya:

Haha, that would be a sight to behold.

Tolfin:

What's the matter, 旅人? Something else on your mind?

Tolfin:

The name "Reed Miller" was merely an alias, a mask to hide one's true identity. To the poor, Miller was a figure of admiration, while to the nobles, the very mention of him would draw curses and swearing. But it was never the name of just one person.

Tolfin:

Even among the earliest Treasure Hoarders, there were already three individuals who went by the name "Reed Miller." And that doesn't even include those who later chose to pose as Miller for one reason or another.

Tolfin:

Why, just last week, I had a run-in with two petty thieves, both calling themselves Miller, who attempted to steal my harp. But that's a story for another time.

Tolfin:

Putting the latter-day pretenders aside, I do know a thing or two about the original trio. So, 旅人, which of the three are you asking about?

Tolfin:

The first to use this alias was Avrelian. I've mentioned him to you two before.

Tolfin:

He was an orphan who was adopted by a rank-and-file military officer named Mikhnenko after losing both his parents. As a result, he was able to attend the Snezhnayan Royal Military Academy.

Tolfin:

Interestingly, according to official records, shortly after Avrelian became a non-commissioned officer, he "died in the line of duty" for unknown reasons. Perhaps this was his way of getting out of the military — although I can't say for sure.

Tolfin:

Whatever the reason, he surfaced in Nod-Krai a few years later under the name Reed Miller, gathering the destitute who lived on the fringes of society into a band that became the first Treasure Hoarders.

Tolfin:

At that time, they recognized this young man from who-knows-where as their leader, believing that he would free them from their shackles and build an Elysium where all would stand equal.

Tolfin:

Unfortunately, even I cannot say what his true motive was, nor can I tell you much about how the Treasure Hoarders operated at this time.

Tolfin:

Maybe he had a grand dream; maybe, like my grandmother, he possessed a strong, unshakable faith... or maybe he harbored some other darker, more personal motive he couldn't share with anyone... Alright, please don't tell my grandmother I said that last part.

Tolfin:

Anyhow, all of that happened five centuries ago. For most people, the only thing known about the very first Treasure Hoarder is what eventually became of him, which was death by execution in Snezhnograd.

Tolfin:

Although he had never been captured by the authorities before, he was convinced by a noble friend to walk away from his organization, leave everything behind, and go to Snezhnograd — supposedly to explain himself to the Belyi Tsar or something like that.

Tolfin:

Unsurprisingly, he was promptly sent to his death without so much as a glimpse of the Tsar.

Tolfin:

That's why I say, thieves and nobles don't belong together. It only ever ends in tragedy.

Traveler:

See you.

Tolfin:

Yes, I'll see you around. May your journey ahead be smooth and beautiful, just like this tune.

Hiljetta:

Hurry — retrieve the Great Treasure.

Paimon:

Eh? Huh!? Wha!?! What just happened?

Paimon:

We found a Treasure Hoarder ship under a pile of Iron Coins, then you took the helm... After that, it felt like a dream, and then somehow, we ended up here...

Paimon:

Those two... they mentioned someone called "Brahe." Either it's a crazy coincidence, or they must be from a long, long time ago?

Traveler:

At the very least, we know they have a connection to this place.

Paimon:

Yeah! And from what they were saying, there was once some treasure buried here, and even though they made off with it, it seems they left something else in its place...?

Paimon:

It's been so long, who knows if someone's already dug it up by now...

Traveler:

Let's see if we can find it first.

Paimon:

Hmm, it can't hurt to look! If Paimon remembers correctly, it should be somewhere around... here!

Paimon:

Paimon can't believe it's still here! Why didn't the governor come to collect it?

Paimon:

Huh? This is what they left here? Isn't this...?

Paimon:

Hmm, Paimon doesn't understand. Let's ask Tolfin about it... Oh! Paimon almost forgot, we should tell him what happened with the Great Treasure, too!

chevron_left Clink Clank Clash: Epilogue

Ding Ding Dinggg! A Great Feast!

An Ancient Song of Flowing Crystal and Stone Chests: Chapter I chevron_right

The Crystal City in the Gorge's Depths