arrow_back Genshin Impact Quests 
Chapter I: Act I
Of the Land Amidst Monoliths
In the land of Liyue by the sea, a city sits atop the solid bedrock. That city is Liyue Harbor, and it has flourished under the protection of its guardian Morax — also known as "Rex Lapis," the Geo Archon you have been looking for. You could not have arrived at a more fortuitous time, as the annual "Rite of Descension" has just begun. Every year on this day, Rex Lapis graces this land with his prophecy, giving guidance on the economic path Liyue should follow in the coming year.
Talk to Paimon
Paimon:
If you wanna find the Geo Archon, this is the only chance you'll get all year.
Paimon:
Guess it's a good thing Venti brought it up earlier, otherwise we definitely would've missed this year's Rite of Descension.
Paimon:
Uhh... might be today, might also be tomorrow...
Paimon:
Look, we're already in Liyue so let's go ask some of the locals.
Paimon:
Oh, right. About the Geo Archon, "Morax..."
Paimon:
Did you know? The Mora that we use is named after this god.
Paimon:
But it's seen as impolite for people from outside Liyue to refer to the Geo Archon by that name.
Paimon:
So we should refer to the Geo Archon by the name Rex Lapis, like the people of Liyue do.
Talk to the locals (Guanhai)
Guanhai:
Oh! Are you also visitors here for the Rite of Descension?
Guanhai:
To think I've lived in Liyue all these years and never come to see this before.
Guanhai:
I guess it's like they say. Locals never visit the tourist spots.
Guanhai:
I wish you well on your travels! Liyue always welcomes you!
Paimon:
Thanks! So we wanna know where to go if we wanna see the Rite of Descension?
Guanhai:
Hmm... You're not at all close. Not to mention that if I gave you directions, as outlanders, you'd get lost along the way.
Guanhai:
So better to head to Yujing Terrace, to the high ground.
Guanhai:
It's the highest place in the harbor — sounds like the best place for trying to communicate with deities, no?
Talk to the locals (Linlang)
Linlang:
Rite of Descension... Oh yeah, that reminds me, isn't that today?
Linlang:
Once a year, Rex Lapis bestows upon us his divine prediction, guiding us on how to run Liyue for the coming year.
Linlang:
Last year it was the Yuheng of the Liyue Qixing that was given the honor of asking for the divine prediction.
Paimon:
Ooh! Paimon knows this one!
Paimon:
Mondstadt is to freedom as Liyue is to contracts. Liyue has a strong focus on business and trade.
Paimon:
The Liyue Qixing — the seven leaders of the seven enterprises of Liyue — hold true control over Liyue.
Linlang:
That's what foreigners always say.
Linlang:
But true control over Liyue will always be held by Rex Lapis.
Linlang:
The Qixing is comprised of mere mortals. Rex Lapis is a god. Mondstadt's god is nowhere to be seen, whilst our god is forever with us.
Linlang:
Stay in Liyue long enough and you'll see...
Linlang:
Given that you just left your godless city, it's time you experienced what it's like to be in a city whose god has walked with it through all of history.
Paimon:
Great! Then we can start our experience off with the Rite of Descension.
Linlang:
Good choice. Then get going. To the high ground.
Talk to the locals (Bolai)
Bolai:
You too wish to bear witness to the Rite of Descension? Me too, we all do!
Bolai:
As a businessman myself, how could I not take interest in Liyue's most important business trends?
Bolai:
The seventeen predictions given last year made more than a few ripples throughout the industry.
Bolai:
What's more, there has been a rumor going around that the Tianquan herself, Ningguang, has been acting secretly in the shadows...
Bolai:
She wants the rocks created by Geo Vision holders to be exempt from taxation.
Paimon:
Wow... that's some super professional legal stuff that is!
Bolai:
Haha. To be on the pulse of the predictions and the market is what makes this harbor what it is.
Bolai:
Among The Seven, Rex Lapis is the oldest deity.
Bolai:
His keen sense of strategy is well trusted among his people.
Bolai:
Understanding the predictions as soon as possible can make all the difference in making your fortune!
Paimon:
F—Fortune! So where can we see this Rite of Descension anyway?
Bolai:
Hmm... You're not at all close. Not to mention that if I gave you directions, as outlanders, you'd get lost along the way.
Bolai:
So better to head to Yujing Terrace, to the high ground.
Bolai:
It's the highest place in the harbor — sounds like the best place for trying to communicate with deities, no?
Go to Yujing Terrace
Paimon:
Paimon heard that the best time to make a wish is today, during the Rite of Descension. Traveler, wanna give it a try?
Pray and make a wish at Yujing Terrace
Changshun:
Oh, you also want a little adepti luck too?
Changshun:
Haha, seems you know a lot! Making a wish during this time is sure to get you the blessings of both the Adepti and Rex Lapis himself.
Changshun:
I've already made my wish, so you can take this.
Traveler:
I wish I could find my sister soon...
Paimon:
Great, thanks!
Pray and make a wish at Yujing Terrace
Ivanovich:
Your first time in Liyue? Actually, it's my first time to see the Rite of Descension too.
Ivanovich:
Ah, look! That's Ms. Ningguang of the Liyue Qixing!
Ivanovich:
Only those who have control in Liyue can preside over the Rite of Descension.
Ivanovich:
Oh yeah, not sure if you knew, but most of the adepti appear in the form of various beasts.
Ivanovich:
I heard that when attending these kinds of formal occasions, Rex Lapis himself appears as a celestial cross between two of Liyue's ancient mythical creatures...
Ivanovich:
...Sorry, I shouldn't interrupt your wish. Please, take this.
Traveler:
I wish I could get some leads from the Geo Archon...
Paimon:
Great! Now that we're all done with the wishing, guess we can just wait here for things to get started.
Paimon:
Hmm, who knows how long that Ms. Ningguang lady is gonna take.
Watch the rite
Under Ningguang's direction, the Rite begins right on time, and Liyue's deity shows up as promised. But as the clouds disperse, the crowds watch in horror as the lifeless body of their lord drops onto the offering table. After inspecting the scene for a brief moment, Ningguang utters the unfathomable words: "Rex Lapis has been killed! Seal the exits!"
Talk to Paimon
Paimon:
Wha... What's going on!?
Paimon:
Did she just say Rex Lapis is...
Paimon:
The Geo Archon... is... DEAD!?
Paimon:
Oh no, the Millelith! Looks like they're nabbing suspects who got too close.
Paimon:
Paimon's freaking out. The killer is amongst us!
Paimon:
Wait... we got close... are we suspects!?
Paimon:
Wait, where are you going?
Escape from the Millelith
You cautiously make your way out, avoiding the watchful gaze of the Millelith, but before you make it far from the scene of the crime, one misstep alerts them to your presence. Just when it seems like there's no way out, a mystery man suddenly lands in front of you and helps you escape the Millelith for good.
Talk to the stranger
Paimon:
*panting* Phew... Paimon's exhausted...
Paimon:
So insensitive! You have no idea just how tiring floating arou— Wait!
Paimon:
Just who are you exactly?
???:
Call me Childe.
Paimon:
Childe? What, so we're supposed to dote on you?
Childe:
Haha, no no, not at all. It's an alias of sorts.
Childe:
In Mondstadt, I don't suppose you came across a "Signora" by any chance?
Paimon:
Signora... Childe...
Paimon:
You're Fatui! One of The Harbingers!
Childe:
Oh, no. Don't worry, I'm not looking for a fight.
Childe:
Signora gave you quite the bad impression huh? Tsk, that woman... Can't say I'm a fan either.
Childe:
Right, let's forget all about her, shall we? I'm here to help you.
Childe:
Yes. Help.
Childe:
I'm not a bad guy... Okay perhaps I'm kind of a bad guy, but I'm not here to give you any trouble.
Childe:
Would it be too much to ask for you to keep the sword sheathed?
Childe:
Haha, I thank you for your knightly nobility, Traveler.
Childe:
I heard of your deeds in Mondstadt, so I couldn't help but notice you during the proceedings back there.
Childe:
And because I had my eye on you the whole time, I know it wasn't you. Someone else was clearly behind it.
Childe:
But... regrettably, given I'm a Fatui envoy from Snezhnaya... there's no way I'd be trusted after something of this magnitude.
Childe:
The ruling Qixing of Liyue has always been overly suspicious of us.
Paimon:
Well can you honestly blame them?
Childe:
Hahaha. Guess I shouldn't try to deny that.
Childe:
Okay, sure. Maintaining a distance between strangers is probably a good idea. Either way, I'm already used to it at this stage.
Childe:
But right now, if you want to clear yourselves of any suspicion — you need to get yourselves to Northland Bank.
Childe:
Staying here isn't an option. As the old Liyue saying goes: "The walls have ears."
Talk to Childe at the Northland Bank
Paimon:
Northland Bank...
Childe:
Correct. This bank was opened here in Liyue by Snezhnaya.
Childe:
Though everyone knows Liyue is the most enterprising in Teyvat, Snezhnaya is not short of change either.
Paimon:
Yeah well, poorer nations don't seem the type to have diplomats that come around acting the way yours do towards the Knights of Favonius.
Childe:
Eh-hehehehe...
Childe:
Here, let me give you this.
Paimon:
This is a...
Childe:
I'm not sure, exactly. Sometimes, all money can buy is "things" and not a name for oneself.
Childe:
All I know is that it's a sigil. A sigil to keep the "mighty and illuminated adepti" from bringing harm to you.
Paimon:
Adepti?
Childe:
If you head north from the harbor, then west from Guili Plains, you will eventually reach a stone forest known as Jueyun Karst.
Childe:
The people of Liyue believe it to be the abode of the adepti.
Childe:
Legend or not, they believe it. As such, offerings to the adepti are made at its borders. Nobody dares venture in.
Childe:
But I have no need for believing — not when I know for a fact that the adepti truly exist.
Paimon:
Hate to admit it but your Fatui intel seems alright. But, why would we go looking for adepti anyway?
Childe:
Ha, oh my little friend. There are plenty of reasons mortals seek the blessings of adepti.
Childe:
Money, health, love... But you... you will go for justice.
Paimon:
Justice?
Childe:
The Qixing will already have dispatched the Millelith. They'll be seeking out the assassin from amongst the onlookers.
Childe:
But how could a mere mortal kill a god that can sweep aside entire armies? Rex Lapis never gave up his power as a god.
Childe:
This level of crude response is beyond what is called for. How suspicious...
Childe:
Or... to hide something else. Hard to say.
Childe:
Even now, the Northland Bank wouldn't be able to hold the Millelith off for long, but the adepti can clear you of any wrongdoing.
Childe:
Liyue was founded by the Geo Archon and the adepti — of course, it was built by force.
Childe:
Look for them. And be faster than the Qixing's messengers, so you may give your version of events first.
Childe:
If there is anyone that can help you in Liyue now, it can only be the mighty and illuminated adepti.
Absolute Territorial Domination
Absolute Territorial Domination
Tianquan's Assistant:
Halt. Those not involved in the proceedings are not permitted to go any further!
Paimon:
Pfft... Killjoy...
Absolute Territorial Domination
Millelith Soldier:
Halt. Those not involved in the proceedings are not permitted to go any further!
Paimon:
Pfft... Killjoy...
Absolute Territorial Domination
View Rex Lapis:
(Life has left the adeptus' great body...)
View Rex Lapis:
(What went on out of view in that moment?)
During the rite, the appointed moment arrived. Yet when the clouds parted, a divine carcass crashed down to earth, knocking all the offerings over. Amid the chaos and confusion, the Qixing ordered that the assassin be arrested. Unable to prove your innocence, you were forced to accept the help of Childe of the Fatui, and as suggested by him, you are now headed for Jueyun Karst, a hidden abode where the adepti dwell...
Meet the adepti in Jueyun Karst
???:
And who might we be? Those that dare enter Jueyun Karst?
???:
A Sigil of Permission... Many a season has passed since one was last in the presence of such an item.
Moon Carver:
He before you is the mighty and illuminated adeptus, Moon Carver. Speak, traveler. What business have you here?
Paimon:
Actually...
Millelith Sergeant:
It's the assassin! They dared to flee here to Jueyun Karst!
Millelith Soldier:
Sir, we've already stepped too far into Jueyun Karst ourselves...
Millelith Sergeant:
We... Argh, there's no choice. Apprehending the assassin is top priority, we must press on!
Moon Carver:
...disturbing our borders.
Moon Carver:
See them gone. One will not have interruption.
Talk to Moon Carver
Moon Carver:
We've digressed. State your purpose, traveler.
Paimon:
Well...
You tell Moon Carver what happened at Yujing Terrace...
Moon Carver:
Preposterous...
Moon Carver:
PREPOSTEROUS!!!
Moon Carver:
The Liyue Qixing... utterly disappointing.
Moon Carver:
How could someone possibly assassinate Rex Lapis during the Rite of Descension...
Moon Carver:
And then place suspicion upon the attendees!?
Moon Carver:
...
Moon Carver:
Traveler, of the unjust accusations placed upon you, one has become aware.
Moon Carver:
The mind knows its answer. Though one must consult with one's fellows, lest the mind be misguided.
Moon Carver:
Go. Take your Sigil of Permission, carry with you a message.
Moon Carver:
Mountain Shaper and Cloud Retainer can be found here. Only fate will decide if you shall find them — only fate.
Moon Carver:
There exists a Conqueror of Demons, a Guardian Yaksha. Go to Wangshu Inn. There you shall seek him.
You came across an adeptus, "Moon Carver." Seeing the keepsake you bore, he lent you his aid and protected you from the Millelith soldiers pursuing you. Upon learning of Rex Lapis' passing and the unjust accusations laid against you, Moon Carver expressed disdain for the Qixing's actions and began to suspect that they were behind what happened. He has sent you to find several other adepti and deliver a message to them.
Go to Wangshu Inn
Paimon:
Oh, this seems to be Wangshu Inn.
Paimon:
Compared to Jueyun Karst this place seems basic. Are we really gonna find an adeptus here?
Paimon:
Let's take a look. Paimon reckons he'll be on the balcony. Heh, doubt we're going to find him in the kitchen.
You take a good look around the balcony, but there's no one to be seen. You stop to admire the view — when suddenly, an adeptus appears
Talk to Xiao
Xiao:
A Sigil of Permission? You came prepared.
Xiao:
Though this only prevents me from hurting you myself. Doesn't stop you from getting hurt in other ways.
Paimon:
Uhh... Paimon doesn't get it...
Xiao:
Too much contact with our world is breaking the rules.
Xiao:
Mortal souls are not as robust as those of adepti, nor can your blood carry this level of adeptal energy.
Xiao:
It's for your own good. Leave. Now.
Without waiting for you to explain, Xiao disappears...
Paimon:
Wait a sec, we came here to...
Paimon:
Argh! Paimon's... peeved! All he does is think about himself!
Paimon:
Paimon wants to give him an ugly nickname... but if you tick off an adeptus, the only thing you'll probably ever find in treasure chests is cabbages! Bleurgh!
Paimon:
Ugh... Guess we should go ask the boss lady of the inn about just how she manages to talk to adepti.
Ask the boss lady about Xiao
Traveler:
Tell me about that adeptus
Verr Goldet:
Oh? You've already met Xiao?
Verr Goldet:
Not bad. Not often he's in a good enough mood to agree to see people.
Paimon:
That's his good mood?
Verr Goldet:
Oh yes, the adepti are very hard to come by. Many people go their whole lives praying to them, never once actually getting to see one.
Verr Goldet:
When the Geo Archon built Liyue, he borrowed power from the adepti.
Verr Goldet:
But most of them only know how to protect Liyue by fighting.
Verr Goldet:
So for many millennia, it has instead been humans who have led Liyue, whilst the adepti have lived hidden away on the outskirts.
Paimon:
You really know a lot, huh boss lady.
Verr Goldet:
It's not "boss lady," it's just boss...
Verr Goldet:
Anyway, seen as you have the favor of the adepti, things should be a lot easier.
Verr Goldet:
Well... If you wanna know my opinion... If you keep Xiao in a good mood, things should be okay.
Paimon:
Good mood? Can't really imagine what a "good mood" looks like for that "Vigilant Yaksha."
Verr Goldet:
Haha! Will be interesting, won't it?
Verr Goldet:
(Come to think of it, I've never seen him smile either...)
Verr Goldet:
How 'bout this — you go see the chef for a bowl of Almond Tofu, and a plate of whatever it is you are best at making.
Verr Goldet:
Almond Tofu is one of the few human foods Xiao likes. The other dish is up to you.
Paimon:
Up to us, eh...? Traveler, what do you think you're the best at cooking?
Paimon:
Really hard to screw that one up, right?
Talk to the chef
Smiley Yanxiao:
Can't you see I'm on a break kid? Scram.
Traveler:
Excuse me, we'd like an Almond To—
Smiley Yanxiao:
Scram!
Paimon:
Whoa, this chef guy's service is about as good as that Wagner guy's back in Mondstadt.
Traveler:
It's for the boss, Goldet.
Smiley Yanxiao:
...
Smiley Yanxiao:
I see. If it's for the boss, then guess I don't have a choice now, do I?
Smiley Yanxiao:
But my heart's not really in it right now, not enough to make a dessert as painstaking as Almond Tofu.
Paimon:
And why is that?
Smiley Yanxiao:
A fencer's hand must be steady, so too must the hand of a chef.
Smiley Yanxiao:
But my hands, I'm... they're not steady...
Smiley Yanxiao:
Because ahh, a traveler once told me that this inn... is haunted.
Smiley Yanxiao:
And then, just now — just now! In the kitchen... I saw something... something not right.
Paimon:
(This chef looks so intimidating, but speak of ghosts and he becomes weak.)
Smiley Yanxiao:
I keep thinking... even Wangshu Inn isn't safe. I—I can't keep a steady hand for something like Almond Tofu.
Paimon:
Alright Traveler. In the name of high-quality Almond Tofu, we need to go check this kitchen out.
Go to the kitchen
Paimon:
Doesn't seem to be anyth—
Paimon:
...
Paimon:
...
A ghost runs across the room before your very eyes...
Paimon:
#@&%*!
Tell Smiley Yanxiao about what happened
Smiley Yanxiao:
What!? You saw it too! There really is a ghost!
Smiley Yanxiao:
What... How can I...
Paimon:
Okay, so he's useless now. What do we do?
Paimon:
Forget it. Let's just go see the boss lady again.
Seek help from Verr Goldet
Verr Goldet:
Hehe... Scared of something so insignificant. Hard to believe he was once a notorious bandit.
Paimon:
You don't seem that afraid of ghosts, boss lady.
Verr Goldet:
Gods and ghosts, I've seen it all before.
Paimon:
Come to think of it, others don't seem to know there's an adeptus here at the inn, except for the boss lady...
Verr Goldet:
Shh!
Verr Goldet:
Say any more and you'll be divulging my little secret.
Verr Goldet:
Right. Best you two be off. Go see to it that little ghost doesn't go scaring anybody else.
Verr Goldet:
Not that I'm ordering you around. It's like the adeptus said, mortal souls are not as robust as those of the adepti.
Verr Goldet:
So as to not be harmed when dealing with the adepti, you can start by practicing with that ghost.
Paimon:
But how should we persuade the ghost?
Verr Goldet:
There is a calligraphy painting in the inn known as the Witness Sigil. It's been in circulation for over a thousand years. Go take a look at it.
Verr Goldet:
Once you have, look for a place outside where you can see the exact same Witness Sigil formation.
Find a place where you can see the whole Witness Sigil
Paimon:
Th—There she is! So scary... Traveler, quick, you... you grab her.
Paimon:
She's trying to get away!
Paimon:
We have to follow her. If it's as the boss lady said, she won't disappear like last time!
Defeat the Ruin Hunter
Paimon:
Argh! She doesn't know when to give up!
Paimon:
This old, decrepit Ruin Guard... Surely it's not... possessed!?
Talk to Dusky Ming
Dusky Ming:
♪ Silly-churl, billy-churl ♪...
Paimon:
Phew... Finally caught you. Paimon's pooped.
Dusky Ming:
♪ Silly-billy hilichurl ♪ ...
Paimon:
Haunting things isn't nice! Little girl, are you listening?
Dusky Ming:
♪ Chilly-churl, frilly-churl ♪ ...
Paimon:
Now listen here young lady!
Dusky Ming:
...
Dusky Ming:
Okay.
Dusky Ming:
Dusky Ming won't tease the travelers at the inn anymore.
Dusky Ming:
Next time Traveler can come play with Dusky Ming.
Dusky Ming:
If you don't come and play, Dusky Ming will come find you~
Tell Smiley Yanxiao about what happened
Smiley Yanxiao:
Wh-What... You really got the ghost to promise to stop haunting the inn?
Smiley Yanxiao:
Wow... You really are something...
Smiley Yanxiao:
I am in your debt.
Smiley Yanxiao:
Please wait a moment. I'll make you the smoothest, silkiest bowl of Almond Tofu.
Smiley Yanxiao:
Haha, my hands are steadier than ever now that she's gone.
Talk to Xiao
Xiao:
...You two again.
Paimon:
Wait! Don't go disappearing again.
You give the food to Xiao...
Xiao:
What's this?
Paimon:
It's your favorite, Almond Tofu! As well as this distant traveler's best dish — a Satisfying Salad.
Paimon:
Traveler! Quick! Tell him everything before he finishes eating!
Xiao:
Rex Lapis... How could this be?
Xiao:
I... can't imagine it. Though times have changed, I've never imagined a Liyue without him.
Xiao:
The ruling Qixing... Just what role have they played in this?
Xiao:
...
Xiao:
I will seek Moon Carver, Mountain Shaper, and Cloud Retainer. It is time they too made their decisions.
Xiao:
Adepti do not turn on their responsibilities.
Xiao:
I have my reasons to not want to be tainted by the mortal realm, but... responsibilities are responsibilities.
Xiao:
Our god is the God of Contracts after all.
Paimon:
Wait! Paimon still has one last question.
Xiao:
Hmm?
Paimon:
That... Dusky Ming. She's...
Xiao:
When conquering demons, on occasion, you can come across spirits who have never hurt anyone, yet are also not yet able to be moved on.
Xiao:
So I asked the innkeeper and the boss if they could keep her here for a time.
Paimon:
So really, Wangshu Inn was looking after her! Really keeping a wide range of business going, huh!
Appearance control logic
Following the instructions of Moon Carver, you arrive at Mt. Hulao in order to meet with Mountain Shaper.
Talk to Li Ding
Li Ding:
Have mercy, O mighty adeptus! I beg you... Show mercy upon me and my brother... Spare our lives!
Traveler:
What's wrong?
Li Ding:
Who are you? What's going on?
Paimon:
We asked you first!
Li Ding:
...Oh! You enjoy safe passage in Jueyun Karst... It can only mean one thing!
Li Ding:
You must be adepti messengers! Sent here to rescue me and my brother!
Paimon:
What is he talking about?
Li Ding:
...Oh, have mercy, mighty messengers of the illuminated adepti! I beg you to save us... My brother and I, we only came here because our family is poor, and we heard tell of treasures hidden in the amber of Mt. Hulao.
Li Ding:
It was stupid of us... but all we wanted to do was find enough treasure to sell and support our family...
Li Ding:
We followed the path up the mountain, but suddenly, the amber... it swallowed up my brother, Li Dang!
Li Ding:
I ran away, and made it this far before it dawned on me: We were trespassers in the abode of the adepti, and this was our punishment...
Li Ding:
I had no idea how to rescue my brother, so I just started praying for the adepti to have mercy, right here on the spot. And now, at long last, two messengers come to my aid...
Paimon:
What? We're not adepti messengers... We just wanna find the adepti, like everyone else!
Li Ding:
No no no, you must be messengers... You have to be!
Li Ding:
I have no idea which amber trapped him... Please, you have to rescue him! I beg you, show me some adepti mercy!
Li Ding:
Thank you, thank you! O mighty messengers of the illuminated adepti, I promise that we will never be so foolish again...
Talk to Li Dang
Li Dang:
*coughing*
Li Dang:
Wh—What happened? ...Y—You rescued me? Thank you...
Li Dang:
Oh! And have you seen my brother? His name is Li Ding, we were climbing the mountain together.
Li Dang:
I just hope he didn't get trapped in amber too...
Li Dang:
Phew... so he's safe then...?
Talk to Li Ding and Li Dang
Li Ding:
Thank you for rescuing my brother, O mighty messengers of the illuminated adepti.
Traveler:
Have you ever seen the adeptus here?
Li Ding:
What? No... I mean, like everyone else, we've heard that there's an adeptus living in Mt. Hulao.
Li Ding:
But regular folks like us would never have the chance to meet them. No way.
Li Ding:
Unlike you guys... You're adepti messengers, so it's a whole different story.
Li Ding:
Anyway, we have trespassed in the realm of the adeptus for long enough. We should get going. Thank you, mighty adepti messengers...
Li Dang:
Yes, thank you, messengers...
Paimon:
...Boy, it'd be super helpful if we actually were adepti messengers.
Paimon:
'Cause it seems like this adeptus has got a real temper problem...
Paimon:
But it's not like we've done anything wrong, so... hopefully we'll be okay... hehe...
Mountain Shaper:
Who dares trespass on my mountain? Who is it that frees the thief from his incarceration?
Mountain Shaper:
Foolish mortal, come forth and receive your punishment at once!
Meet Mountain Shaper
Mountain Shaper:
...You intrude upon the sanctity of Mt. Hulao, you destroy the amber of my mountain, and you free a thief whose freedom is not yours to give.
Mountain Shaper:
The thieves' ignorance was an affront to the adepti... but your actions are an abomination of the highest order!
Paimon:
Wait! We can explain...
Mountain Shaper:
...A Sigil of Permission? One was unaware that such things still exist in the mortal realm.
Mountain Shaper:
In the beginning, Rex Lapis cast them for the mortals with his own hand. Few were made then, and thousands of years on, fewer still remain...
Mountain Shaper:
Speak. One shall listen to the matter which brings you here, then one shall verify the truth thereof.
Mountain Shaper:
You would be wise to speak the truth, for Liyue is not so far from here that one would be easily deceived.
You tell Mountain Shaper what took place in Liyue Harbor...
Mountain Shaper:
Rex Lapis... Assassinated?
Mountain Shaper:
At the Rite of Descension!?
Mountain Shaper:
What mortal in Liyue— nay, in all the world, would conspire to commit such foul treason? Or perhaps the more pertinent question is, what power in this world could aspire to achieve it?
Mountain Shaper:
Rex Lapis charged the adepti with the protection of Liyue, and we have always honored this duty. As the people have prospered, so have we gradually withdrawn into the mountains. Indeed, this was a gesture of good will towards humanity.
Mountain Shaper:
But now... Alas! Rex Lapis, gone...
Mountain Shaper:
Traveler, of the matter you have relayed, one has become aware. One now knows why Moon Carver has sent for us.
Mountain Shaper:
Once one has dealt with certain matters here that require my attention, one shall convene with the other adepti.
Traveler:
Can someone explain the amber situation to me?
Paimon:
Paimon can! Adepti always have magical powers in storybooks, seems it's true in real life too.
Paimon:
You know, like how grass is actually adepti hair, and rivers are actually adepti saliva... There must be something similar going on with the amber.
Mountain Shaper:
...Your nonsense knows no bounds. This amber is produced by a flower that one has planted here, called the karst crawler.
Mountain Shaper:
The majority of the plant is hidden underground. When stepped on, it produces amber to trap the invader.
Mountain Shaper:
After taking up residence here, one planted many karst crawlers to ensure that the tranquility of the mountain would remain undisturbed. Over the years, they have helped to prevent many disturbances, but in the process they have also trapped many curious things...
Paimon:
Oh, so the amber is... alive?
Mountain Shaper:
Correct. Thus, one may not leave this place in its current state, for fear of the risk to innocent lives in one's absence.
Mountain Shaper:
One will depart as soon as one has attended to this matter. One trusts that the manner of your departure will be swifter in nature.
Following Moon Carver's instructions, you arrive at Mt. Aocang in order to seek out Cloud Retainer.
Search for Cloud Retainer
Paimon:
Hey, who put this table here? They've even set it ready for dinner, there's a wine jug and everything...
Paimon:
Ooh, they even have the guests' names carved into the seats! "Here sits Retainer..."
Paimon:
"Here sits Guizhong..." "Here sits Rex..."
Paimon:
Maybe "Rex" is short for "Rex Lapis"? But Paimon has no idea about "Guizhong."
Paimon:
As for "Retainer," hmm... That's it! When Moon Carver was going through the names of his adepti buddies, he said there was one called "Cloud Retainer."
Paimon:
So, this must be where Cloud Retainer and the other adepti have their dinner parties!
Paimon:
Hehe, how about we cook up some extra-special dishes for the adepti? We're sure to get Cloud Retainer's attention that way!
Paimon:
But... What do adepti even eat, anyway? Paimon has no idea...
Paimon:
Hmm, people must make offerings here all the time. Guess all we can do is look around the area for any leftovers, maybe that'll give us some ideas.
Paimon:
Um, do you think maybe it's at all possible that the adepti might like to try some... Sticky Honey Roast?
Look for traces of food offerings
Paimon:
Someone has definitely cooked here before. D'you think they were making an offering?
Paimon:
Looks like they didn't use all the ingredients. Let's see here... we got some Snapdragon, some Lotus Heads, some Tofu... Whatever they were cooking, it sounds complicated!
Paimon:
Hey, look over there... They left some notes, too.
Paimon:
Yep, it's a doozy! Paimon's not surprised they had to write it all down, it's a lot to remember... We should read it carefully.
Look for traces of food offerings
Paimon:
Whoa... The ground is covered in flour. Tsk... What a messy chef...
Paimon:
Hmm, seems there's meat in this pot, but Paimon can't tell which kind.
Paimon:
Do you think whoever cooked this made it as an offering to the adepti?
Paimon:
Hmm... Paimon can't quite imagine an offering made of flour and meat...
Paimon:
Huh? Our messy chef dropped a piece of paper on the floor... Ew, and there's a huge footprint on it too...
Paimon:
But footprint aside, maybe it has something to do with this mystery dish?
Look for traces of food offerings
Paimon:
It's very clean here. Whoever cooked here last obviously likes to keep things neat and tidy...
Paimon:
Paimon bets they were making an offering to the adepti...
Paimon:
Looks like we got us some Matsutake and some Raw Meat...
Paimon:
And what do you know, the recipe is right here. This chef was a super organized person...
Search for Cloud Retainer
Cloud Retainer:
One senses the presence of a Sigil of Permission...
Cloud Retainer:
One knows not why you have come, though the sincerity of your offering is clear... Hence, you shall be granted an opportunity.
Cloud Retainer:
Find your way through mine abode, and you shall receive an audience with the adeptus whom you seek.
Meet Cloud Retainer
Cloud Retainer:
One is most impressed. The path that leads through this abode defies those of ordinary abilities.
Cloud Retainer:
The one before you is the adeptus, Cloud Retainer. Now, speak of the matter which brings you here.
Cloud Retainer:
You surmise correctly. This place did oneself build, as did one design the mechanisms within.
Cloud Retainer:
In fact, even Guizhong and Rex Lapis themselves found one's technological accomplishments to be worthy of commendation.
Paimon:
This place is huge! And there are so many mechanisms... Do you really have this whole place to yourself?
Paimon:
What's it even for? Did you build it as your private mechanism workshop or something?
Paimon:
It's just like the stories say. The adepti leave the human world, find somewhere to go be a hermit, and then they research and invent all these amazing things...
Cloud Retainer:
One is simply not partial to the tedium of social interaction, and wished to find some peace and quiet.
Cloud Retainer:
Find it one did... Shortly after which, you arrived bearing your Sigil of Permission...
Cloud Retainer:
But enough! State the matter which brings you here, at once! You have disturbed the tranquility of this place for long enough.
You tell Cloud Retainer what took place in Liyue Harbor...
Cloud Retainer:
Rex Lapis... Assassinated!?
Cloud Retainer:
How can this be!? Such a heinous crime... Who would dare?
Cloud Retainer:
The notion is so preposterous as to be unbelievable... one shall have to verify the truth of the matter independently...
Cloud Retainer:
...Perhaps one shall quash Liyue first, then convene with the other adepti—
Traveler:
...Excuse me!?
Paimon:
Wait, what!? Did you just say "squash Liyue Harbor"? Are you seriously gonna wipe out the whole city?
Cloud Retainer:
Only a response of sufficient magnitude can negate the possibility of further incidents.
Cloud Retainer:
It is as you say. We have protected Liyue Harbor under the leadership of Rex Lapis for 37 centuries. But in the face of this coup by nefarious actors... exceptional measures must be taken.
Paimon:
Yikes! Quick, you gotta think of something! She wants to squash Liyue flat, and it doesn't seem like she's bluffing!
Traveler:
You accepted our offering, that makes this a contract.
Paimon:
Exactly what Paimon was gonna say! We made all that delicious food, and gave every last bit of it to you!
Paimon:
We were hoping you might help Liyue out... not wipe Liyue out!
Paimon:
...Or at least let's... y'know, discuss it first? Can't hurt for you to get a second opinion.
Cloud Retainer:
"Contract..." A cruel irony that you should appeal to the notion after the merciless murder of the God of Contracts himself.
Cloud Retainer:
The people of Liyue seem quite content to dispense with their contracts. They are quite adept at taking that which is composed of black and white, and turning it gray...
Cloud Retainer:
Nevertheless... Since you come here in the name of contracts, far be it from one to abandon one's own contractual obligations.
Cloud Retainer:
Least of all when you come bearing a Sigil of Permission... *sigh* Rex Lapis infused these sigils with adeptal power when he first cast them. That power once aided humans in battle.
Cloud Retainer:
Most of the sigil's power has long since worn off... It is but a keepsake now.
Cloud Retainer:
This keepsake cannot be taken as proof of your trustworthiness. One must investigate the claims that you make independently.
Cloud Retainer:
This, no doubt, is Moon Carver's very reason for summoning us.
Cloud Retainer:
Your audience with the adeptus before you is now concluded. Leave at once, and disturb me no further.
Having sought out the adepti and completed the task Moon Carver entrusted to you, you return again to Liyue Harbor to look for Childe. He tells you that the Liyue Qixing's response to the archon's passing has given him some food for thought...
Return to Liyue Harbor and find Childe
Childe:
You've finally returned. How was your journey to Jueyun Karst?
Childe:
...I see.
Childe:
Moon Carver, Mountain Shaper, Cloud Retainer, Conqueror of Demons...
Childe:
Some of these names have never come up in the intel the Fatui gets hold of.
Childe:
As a returning gift, I too have information for you.
Childe:
Regarding the archon's passing... The Liyue Qixing's response really has given me food for thought...
Childe:
They've announced that, as the true killer has not yet been found, they are not allowing anyone to pay their respects to the Exuvia.
Childe:
They've even gone so far as to try and cut off information... But with the Rite of Descension and all, even the Qixing isn't able to keep a lid on things.
Paimon:
Exuvia?
Childe:
It's common knowledge in Liyue that Rex Lapis is also an adeptus.
Childe:
The Geo Archon is also the God of Contracts, and is also known as the Exuvia, Prime of the Adepti.
Childe:
The mighty and illuminated adepti of today all signed contracts to protect Liyue way back then.
Paimon:
Guess that explains why they're all so focused on Liyue's well-being.
Childe:
Naturally. They both have the responsibility and the aptitude for the job.
Childe:
If the ruling Qixing became unable to perform their duty properly, the adepti have the right to take corrective action.
Childe:
The Geo Archon's spirit has risen, so why would the Qixing hide his vessel? Truly suspicious.
Paimon:
Oh! Right! He's the whole reason we came here!
Paimon:
If the Liyue Qixing has locked up Exuvia and won't let anyone near...
Paimon:
Then Traveler's quest to find The Seven is already over!
Childe:
Oh? You're trying to find The Seven? And just why might that be, pray tell?
Childe:
Heh... nice answer.
Childe:
A knight that gets duped by the Fatui would really be no knight at all now, would they?
Childe:
But, I can help you with that too you know.
Paimon:
Hmm? Really?
Childe:
Give me some time.
Childe:
Time... to find someone.
Childe:
Someone who can help you break through this stalemate.
Childe:
Truly fascinating. The harder they try to silence the situation, the greater the chaos that erupts...
Childe:
If you want to be around to see it all come crashing down, best you stay alive until we next meet, yes?