arrow_back Genshin Impact Quests 
Chapter I: Act II
Farewell, Archaic Lord
Upon your return from visiting the Adepti, you discover that the Qixing have hidden the Geo Archon's vessel away. Childe promised he'd find someone to break the stalemate, so you pay another visit to Northland Bank.
Talk to the bank staff
Ekaterina:
Welcome, Traveler, friend of Childe. And congratulations on the first day of your illustrious career with the Fatui.
Ekaterina:
You sound remarkably sure of yourself... Remember, we are mere mortals — our ideas are fluid like water. Only the Tsaritsa truly has a will as solid as the permafrost.
Ekaterina:
But back to the matter at hand. Childe tells me that he has upheld his end of your agreement.
Paimon:
What agreement? Oh, the thing about him helping us find a guy?
Ekaterina:
Correct. Childe promised he would find someone to break the stalemate. And the Harbingers do not break their promises lightly.
Paimon:
Ah. Where is that guy, anyway?
Ekaterina:
Childe is currently at Liuli Pavilion.
Traveler:
Liuli Pavilion?
Paimon:
Ooh, ooh Paimon knows this one!
Paimon:
*clears throat* There are two styles of cooking in Liyue, known as Li style and Yue style. They have been competing for centuries, but neither has emerged as the clear winner.
Paimon:
The flagship restaurant of the Li style is the Liuli Pavilion. The owner especially chose to open the restaurant at Feiyun Slope, so they could compete face-to-face with the Xinyue Kiosk, which is the flagship restaurant of the Yue style.
Paimon:
Don't talk to Paimon like that! Anyway, Paimon's hungry. Let's get moving.
Find Childe
Childe:
Aha, you made it.
Childe:
As promised, I have found someone who can help you. Someone who can solve the mystery of why the Liyue Qixing would hide the Geo Archon's vessel.
Paimon:
So where is he? In Liuli Pavilion?
Childe:
He certainly is. Come, I'll introduce you.
Childe:
I took the liberty of setting up a business dinner, as per the Liyue custom.
Enter Liuli Pavilion
Childe:
Allow me to introduce Mr. Zhongli, consultant to an organization known as Wangsheng... and a trusted associate of the Fatui.
Childe:
Indeed. Wangsheng's line of work can be... sensitive at times. Let's just say they understand when discretion is needed.
Childe:
And we, the Fatui, have always been glad to do business with friends who walk in the shadows.
Paimon:
W—Walk in the shadows?
Zhongli:
It is an honor to meet you. I have heard tell of you from Mondstadt.
Paimon:
Discretion... shadows... Ah! Is Wangsheng some kind of business involving... "dealing" with people?
Zhongli:
Indeed, it is as you have guessed.
Paimon:
Ahh—!
Zhongli:
The Wangsheng Funeral Parlor organizes burials. We ensure that those who pass on do so in peace.
Paimon:
Eh?
Childe:
Haha, did you think he was some sort of hired killer?
Childe:
The Fatui calls many such people friends, but the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor does not dabble in such business... well, ostensibly.
Traveler:
Ostensibly...
Childe:
Well, they are still— Ah, I shouldn't say too much. In any case, I brought you to meet Mr. Zhongli because...
Zhongli:
Because I can bring you to see Rex Lapis' vessel.
Paimon:
What!?
Childe:
Ha, don't be so surprised. Sure, the Geo Archon's body has been squirreled away by order of the Tianquan Ningguang... but first, let's hear what Mr. Zhongli has to say, shall we?
Zhongli:
Rex Lapis may be the Prime of Adepti, but he is ultimately an adeptus. Many adepti have left us over the millennia — this is the inexorable trend.
Zhongli:
The times have changed — you must have felt it too when you were at Jueyun Karst.
Zhongli:
As you have seen, the time of the adepti is ending, and the time of mankind is slowly dawning.
Zhongli:
In years past, Liyue's tradition was that a huge memorial service be held to mark the passing of every adeptus. But this time, the Qixing have made no attempt whatsoever to respect this tradition. It is sacrilege.
Traveler:
Well, they do have a deicide to deal with...
Paimon:
Yeah, the killer hasn't even been caught yet.
Zhongli:
Deicide or not, the concern of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor is this: When the ritual to receive this god is so kingly, it is all the more egregious for his final send-off to go unattended to.
Zhongli:
Traveler, Childe has told me a lot about you. Since you have had dealings with the Anemo Archon, could I ask you to help me prepare the Geo Archon's last rites?
Paimon:
Well... if you really think about it, Traveler, we don't have any other choice...
Childe:
Indeed, no amount of consideration can change this outcome.
Childe:
The Tianquan, Ningguang, has forbidden anyone from accessing Rex Lapis' vessel... Which of course you would need to access if you are to achieve your goal of meeting all of The Seven.
Zhongli:
Precisely. Only by participating in the Rite of Parting will you be able to see the form of Rex Lapis again.
Traveler:
Looks like there's no other choice.
Zhongli:
If we are agreed, come with me. We will speak of the details as we walk.
Childe:
Alright, my bridge-building work here is done. Turned out well, didn't it?
Childe:
You can go if you want to, don't worry about me. I might just have a few more drinks... and get acquainted with these things they call "chopsticks" in the meantime.
Talk to Zhongli outside
Zhongli:
After having experienced the land of the absentee archon, Traveler, how does it feel to know that our archon and adepti are here all around you in Liyue?
Zhongli:
I see, so you're that sort of person. It's not a bad thing.
Zhongli:
But I suppose you have yet to experience the substance of Liyue's three thousand and seven hundred years of divinity.
Zhongli:
Organizing the Rite of Parting should prove to be an enlightening part of your travels.
Zhongli:
Liyue is the most prosperous of the seven nations, defended by deities and ruled by the Qixing. As such, the diplomatic maneuverings of the Fatui have gained no purchase here.
Zhongli:
Ningguang of the Qixing has always been on her guard against the Fatui. That is in all likelihood why Childe wants to make use of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor's connections.
Paimon:
Huh... what would Childe get out of us doing the Rite of Parting anyway?
Zhongli:
I neither know nor do I wish to know. As far as I am concerned, the Fatui are merely financial sponsors. I only wish for Liyue's traditions to endure.
Zhongli:
These are the advance funds that Childe has provided. If you use them up, you can go to him to apply for any subsequent funding.
Paimon:
Wow...
Zhongli:
Well then, let us be off. The first step in our preparations shall be to obtain some prize Noctilucous Jade worthy of a deity.
Childe introduced you to Zhongli, a consultant at Wangsheng Funeral Parlor. You agree to help Zhongli organize the Rite of Parting in the hope of seeing the Geo Archon again.
Go and buy Noctilucous Jade
Shitou:
Welcome to the Jade Mystery, my good friends! Would you like to try your luck betting on jade? This could be your lucky day.
Shitou:
It's cheap and it's fun, and who knows, you just might strike it rich!
Paimon:
Betting? No, no, we're here for... um, what was it again?
Zhongli:
Noctilucous Jade, of radiant grade at the very least.
Shitou:
Radiant grade Noctilucous Jade? I see, you're not a tourist. My apologies. I have some here for your perusal...
Shitou:
What do you think? The Jade Mystery is an old name in the jade business. Just look at that wonderful quality! Rex Lapis doesn't often bless us with such finery. Go on, pick whichever one you like!
Paimon:
These three pieces really do look pretty, not like the ones you usually dig up...
Paimon:
But how do we pick? Should we just grab one and go?
Zhongli:
Very good. It seems you have learned some tricks of the trade.
Paimon:
What do you think, Mr. Zhongli? How should we pick from these pieces of Noctilucous Jade?
Zhongli:
Oh? You want me to decide? That is fine as well.
Zhongli:
If it were me, the answer would be simple.
Paimon:
Oh? And that would be...?
Zhongli:
I'll take them all, boss.
Shitou:
Oh, you act with such panache, good sir! I always knew you were not a man of ordinary caliber!
Paimon:
Wait! Wait! Boss, that one didn't count! We need to discuss it again!
You drag Zhongli to one side to discuss prices...
Paimon:
Hey! If we only need one for the ritual, aren't we wasting three times the Mora if we buy them all!?
Zhongli:
Oh, Mora. Hmm...
Zhongli:
It is as you say. I suppose I overlooked this particular aspect of the transaction.
Paimon:
Huh? How do you not think about Mora when buying things!?
Zhongli:
If one must always consider Mora before acting, then in all things one is bound by Mora.
Paimon:
Ahh... What?
Zhongli:
All Mora is currency, but not all currency is Mora.
Paimon:
???
Paimon:
Is this how the rich live?
Paimon:
Well, he knows a lot about big money, but not a lot about big savings.
Zhongli:
No need to waver. Even when I am constrained by Mora, I have ways of working around my limitations.
Zhongli:
Evaluating the quality of Noctilucous Jade is indeed very tricky. As crude ore, there is little difference in texture, lustrousness, and internal pattern between good and bad Jade.
Zhongli:
Only after the item made using Noctilucous Jade has taken shape, will you be able to see whether it is up to par or not.
Zhongli:
If you return to those crafty merchants to quibble, they will counter by saying that your crafting bench is to blame, or that your heat control was poor.
Paimon:
Whoa! To think it's that easy to get cheated...
Zhongli:
But there is a way to truly evaluate this jade, and a true insider would know it.
Zhongli:
"A fool sees the pointer and misses the moon."
Paimon:
What does that mean?
Zhongli:
If you point at the moon with your finger, a wise man knows that you are pointing at the moon, while a fool will only see the finger.
Zhongli:
The patterns, the facade, these are all the "finger." Noctilucous Jade is a mystical stone used to light up the darkness, and so its brightness is the important thing — it is the "moon."
Zhongli:
Noctilucous Jade of excellent quality would have superior Pyro affinity. In other words, the bluer and brighter the luster of the ore under high temperature, the higher its quality.
Zhongli:
I have imparted the priceless secrets of the jade trade to you. Now all that's left is to put it into practice.
Paimon:
Priceless, huh... Paimon's just sad that we might never be able to use it again...
You return to The Jade Mystery...
Paimon:
We're back to buy some rocks, boss. But can you let us burn them first?
Shitou:
B—Burn them? You can't do that, my friends! If you were to do so, what would I have to sell?
Shitou:
That... Well, fine. As you wish, then.
Shitou:
How about this? I can take a small sample of all three. I'll take a bit of a loss — we'll count it as a friendly gesture.
Zhongli:
Don't worry, I know the rules. As long as we can prove that it is good jade, you will not take a loss.
Shitou:
Alright. Take these as samples. I've carved them off with a knife and tagged them to boot.
Paimon:
...Aren't these too thin?
Paimon:
Even paper's thicker. No, even a bug's wings are thicker! These are almost see-through!
Shitou:
Stingy? I've already been very generous. Any more, and you may as well have my neck!
Paimon:
But wouldn't something this thin go poof if we held it to the fire?
Zhongli:
It can't be helped. Trying to deprive a merchant of his profits would be like forcing a ravenous wolf to vomit up the food in its stomach. Nonetheless, under the right conditions, these thin slices will serve.
Paimon:
What sort of conditions?
Zhongli:
While we add the high temperatures using Pyro, we can use Hydro to reinforce it from within. This way, the samples will not disintegrate immediately.
Shitou:
Oh? Oh, sir, to think you were this learned... Thank you for your understanding!
Zhongli:
Strictly speaking, asking for samples when we have not yet agreed to purchase the goods is unfair. Trade in Liyue must be based upon fairness.
Paimon:
Well, guess we just need to find a place to try this out...
Paimon:
Ooh! Paimon remembers! We once saw this biiiiig pot down at the Dadaupa Gorge, in the camp of the hilichurls from the Meaty Tribe! It's real sturdy, and should be able to take the elemental reactions!
Paimon:
Traveler, now, let's pack those samples up and make a move!
Look for the Meaty tribe's giant cooking pot
Zhongli:
It has been a long time since I last set foot in the nation of wind.
Zhongli:
A friend of mine from Mondstadt would always bring a few bottles of locally brewed dandelion wine whenever he came to visit me in Liyue.
Zhongli:
It must be said that the famed liquor of the Land of Pastorals is far better than Sumeru's frigid snake wine.
Approach the giant cooking pot
Paimon:
There's still soup in here. These hilichurls sure have big appetites!
Paimon:
This soup looks like it could be used as our Hydro elemental protection. Let's fire it up and begin our experiment!
You place the samples into the pot...
Paimon:
We're ready to go! Paimon will help remember which one of the three is which!
Paimon:
Use Pyro to keep making the pot hotter, until we get the results we need.
Paimon:
Mr. Zhongli said that the shinier and bluer the ore gets, the better it is, so pay close attention!
Use Pyro to heat the pot
Paimon:
Whoa! That light came from the first Noctilucous Jade!
Paimon:
Hilichurls are surrounding us again! Were they attracted by the light?
Paimon:
Such nosy neighbors! Let's take care of them and continue again after!
Use Pyro to heat the pot
Paimon:
That light came from the second Noctilucous Jade, didn't it?
Paimon:
More hilichurls! They don't give up, do they?
Paimon:
Looks like they're mad that we ruined their food.
Use Pyro to heat the pot
Paimon:
Ow! That's bright! Too bright! That was the third Noctilucous Jade, wasn't it?
Paimon:
It was so much shinier than the rest. Let's go with that one!
Paimon:
Traveler, let's head back to The Jade Mystery to buy some jade, shall we?
Return to Liyue Harbor and find Shitou
Shitou:
You're back, my friends! I've kept the goods for you. Which of them would you like?
Traveler:
I would like the third Noctilucous Jade.
Paimon:
Exactly, that's the one Paimon remembers too!
Shitou:
No problem. If you have your eye on this one, you can have it.
Zhongli:
Then we'll take a box of the third type of jade.
Shitou:
Done!
Shitou:
All the same... Pardon me for asking, but I'm curious. Whatever do you need this much top-quality Noctilucous Jade for?
Zhongli:
Hmm. I suppose it would not hurt to tell you. We need them to make implements for the Rite of Parting.
Shitou:
Parting...!? Oh dear... I'd heard the rumors but hadn't given much thought to them. This... this means that Rex Lapis really is...
Shitou:
...It's hard to believe. Even though the Jade Mystery has been in decline, we have always been under his protection.
Shitou:
It is said that when our Lord lost his way while going incognito in the city two hundred years ago, it was a spoon from The Jade Mystery that he had used to sample the local delights.
Shitou:
Alas, alas, all things must pass... Well, if this is to be used to say farewell to Rex Lapis, then I shall sell this to you at half the price.
Paimon:
Are you sure? You didn't wanna even give us an inch before...
Shitou:
If not for our Lord's protection, this city wouldn't exist as it does now. No proprietor could earn money off such a thing.
Paimon:
Aww... I'm sure Rex Lapis will feel your sentiment, boss.
Zhongli:
In the safe hands of the Liyue Qixing and good, honest merchants such as yourself, I, for one, believe that Liyue will continue to prosper as it always has done.
Traveler:
So let's not get ourselves down just yet.
Shitou:
Alright... thank you, my friends. Hah, what's with me, getting all sentimental like this? I'll practically be giving away all my fortune at this rate.
Zhongli:
Now that we've made our choice, let's take this Noctilucous Jade back.
Paimon:
Hey, wait a minute! He said it was half price, not that we could leave without paying!
Zhongli:
Oh, right, I'm sorry. I must have forgotten to do that too. Let me see...
Zhongli:
...As I thought, I didn't bring any.
Paimon:
Any what?
Zhongli:
Mora. My apologies, another oversight on my part.
Paimon:
That won't do, this isn't some small sum... Oh wait, didn't Childe give us some advance funds earlier?
Traveler:
I have them on me.
Paimon:
That's a relief. Have a look, boss, is it enough?
Shitou:
It's fine, just enough for half price... though to be honest, it'd be alright even if the sum wasn't quite enough.
Zhongli:
Well, it's settled, then. Let's take this jade to Yujing Terrace. That's where we plan to hold the Rite...
Paimon:
Look at you, bossing everyone around! You didn't cough up a single Mora!
Zhongli:
I will do my best. You have my thanks.
Put the Noctilucous Jade in place
Zhongli:
We can leave the jade here. I have already called for a jewelsmith to shape them into the implements that we will need.
Zhongli:
Ah, yes. I have yet to go and see Childe. So as for the jewelsmith's remuneration...
Paimon:
Guess we can't do anything else. Also, is this where we're doing the Rite of Parting?
Zhongli:
Yes. I have already rented this location, and have begun making preparations for the rite.
Zhongli:
That's right. The Liyue Qixing have acquiesced to using the same location.
Paimon:
But when something this big happened here... should suspects like us really be at the crime scene? We might get caught by the Millelith.
Paimon:
Although with that said, since we got back from Jueyun Karst, none of those pesky Millelith soldiers have come chasing after us. Wonder what that's about...
Paimon:
Also, the, uh, Rex Lapis' vessel...
Zhongli:
Traditionally, we call it the Exuvia.
Paimon:
Ah, right. That's what it was called! You seem to know everything, Mr. Zhongli. Um, so, was this Exuvia hidden away by the Qixing? I mean, we haven't even figured out who the murderer is...
Zhongli:
One must think that they already have someone in mind. Or perhaps they already know. Surely they must have found all the evidence that there is to find here.
Zhongli:
These things are for the authorities in Yujing Terrace to consider. Trying to help would probably only add to their troubles.
Zhongli:
Before the Rite is conducted, the Exuvia will be kept temporarily in the Golden House.
Paimon:
Golden House?
Zhongli:
The only mint in Liyue... which is to say the only mint in Teyvat. All the Mora that flows throughout the world is minted there.
Paimon:
Wow—
Paimon:
No, Paimon wasn't thinking about anything bad. Paimon thinks it suits Morax.
Paimon:
But why do you know this, Mr. Zhongli?
Zhongli:
Since the Rite of Parting has the approval of the Qixing, it is a semi-official event. As such, there is already some limited information available.
Zhongli:
Perhaps each has their motives... but this is the capital of commerce. A little exploitation once in a while is not unacceptable.
Zhongli:
In Liyue, where the God of Contracts reigns, only contracts may not be betrayed. I for one have no issue with little maneuvers outside their remit.
Zhongli:
Well then, we should go and prepare the perfumes used in the Rite.
Paimon:
Perfumes? Where'll we get those? Do we buy them?
Zhongli:
No, perfumes used to honor the gods must be freshly decocted. The quality of the Silk Flowers we require is also special.
Zhongli:
Silk Flower petals contain a fibrous material of good quality, often used in brocade-making. Its scent, however, is most elegant, and is especially suited for solemn events like giving offerings to gods and adepti.
Paimon:
It's time for Zhongli's lectures on high society again...
Zhongli:
We shall not speak of the details right now. Follow me, we shall go to the merchants to purchase our ingredients.
Zhongli isn't concerned with the deicide itself, but with upholding Liyue's sacred traditions by giving a proper farewell to an archaic lord. Having selected a suitable batch of Noctilucous Jade, your next task is to prepare some perfumes as an offering to the Geo Archon.
Go and buy Silk Flowers
Paimon:
Hey boss. Do you sell Silk Flowers here?
Bolai:
Silk Flowers? We certainly do! Which kind would you like?
Paimon:
Which kind...? The, uh... the good kind. The best kind. ...Remind Paimon what kinds there are again?
Bolai:
Ugh. You ignorant shoppers, always coming in here with your stupid questions...
Zhongli:
Golden House Maiden, Valley Weaver, and Fate's Yearning. One of each to start with, if you don't mind.
Bolai:
...My goodness! This gentleman is quite the connoisseur!
Bolai:
You two must be his servants. Please refrain from any further attempts to contribute.
Bolai:
Now then... Please peruse at your leisure. Do let me know if you have any further thoughts.
Zhongli:
Silk Flowers exhibit different properties based on how their environmental conditions differ from their ancestral habitat... Nevertheless, these are fine specimens. Excellently preserved.
Zhongli:
Just look at the abundant foliage here. And these stamens, glamorous as a maiden of the Golden House. This strain is an evergreen, and mostly grows under complex hydrological conditions.
Zhongli:
By contrast, this variety thrives in any dark, damp location, often in large clusters. Morphologically, it is distinguished by the profusion of petals and densely packed stamens, though its powerful scent gives it away just as easily.
Zhongli:
Lastly, this strain is quite the recluse. Unlike its exuberant cousins, flowers and foliage are minimal, and when in season, it has a subtle yet enduring scent. It was first discovered by the ancients when they scaled the mountains in search of the adepti.
Zhongli:
Silk Flowers have all but disappeared from the wild today, due to geographical changes over Liyue's history. Most are now grown by horticulturalists.
Bolai:
Wow. A true connoisseur. Most of that was news even to me!
Zhongli:
I possess but a smattering of trivial knowledge. My traveler friend is the one to watch — they are on track to set foot in every corner of the world.
Paimon:
Mr. Zhongli, you're way too humble... So which Silk Flower did you want, anyway?
Zhongli:
I'll take them all, boss.
Paimon:
...Again!?
Zhongli:
How can I put this... When purchasing opera tickets, it is natural to decide based on which singer has the most melodious voice. The same logic applies when purchasing a pet bird.
Zhongli:
But this Silk Flower purchase is not an analogous case. The same logic does not apply.
Zhongli:
Perhaps you don't know. Tradition states that we should decoct perfume from different sub-species of Silk Flower when making an offering to a Statue of The Seven. Rex Lapis will then make his own choice between the scents.
Zhongli:
Like several other tedious and complicated traditions, this one has become simplified over time.
Zhongli:
But this is the only Rite of Parting to take place for one of The Seven in three thousand seven hundred years. As such, I do think we should honor tradition down to the last detail in this case.
Zhongli:
Now that's settled, a question... Ahem. Do you have any Mora on you?
Paimon:
You forgot to bring money again!? Grr, Zhongli!!!
Bolai:
If I may interject... Did I hear you say that these flowers are to be an offering to the Lord of Geo himself?
Paimon:
Yes... in a sense.
Bolai:
Gosh. Well, why didn't you say so? I heard the awful news about what happened at this year's Rite of Descension...
Bolai:
It would be bad luck to say it out loud. But I've been worried about our dear Lord ever since... I'm worried that everything I've heard is true...
Bolai:
Since these flowers will be used to glorify our Lord, they're free of charge. Just don't forget to pass on my regards.
Paimon:
Are you serious?
Bolai:
Why wouldn't I be? I would be nobody if not for Rex Lapis!
Bolai:
If he hadn't written those poems in praise of my wares, they'd only be worth a fraction of what I can sell them for today...
Paimon:
Huh... So much folklore here revolves around Liyue's deity making cameo appearances in support of local businesses...
Zhongli:
...Thank you, boss. I think I speak for all of us when I say that your generosity has saved our skins.
Paimon:
"Our" skins? You were the one who forgot to bring money!
Bolai:
Please. It's the least I could do.
Discuss the method for making perfume
Paimon:
So now that we've got the flowers, how do we make the perfume?
Zhongli:
Ideally, with the help of an expert. Unfortunately, none of my acquaintances have personal experience in the art of decoction...
Paimon:
Talk about first-world problems...
Zhongli:
Hence, I need you to help by asking around in the city. Try the common folk, especially women.
Paimon:
So this time we get to go around town looking for nice-smelling ladies to talk to? Paimon likes this job!
Zhongli:
I will wait for you near the Statue of The Seven. Meet me there when the perfume is ready.
Seek Lan's advice
Paimon:
Maybe we can find some good candidates at the Adventurers' Guild?
Paimon:
Let's ask Lan. She's master of the Liyue branch, right?
Paimon:
Lan! We need to ask you for a favor...
Lan:
I stopped accepting commissions a long time ago. Sorry, you two, but you'll just have to ask another adventurer.
Paimon:
Oh, it's not that kind of favor. It's just a teeny-tiny thing...
Lan:
...Wow. Just wow.
Lan:
Do I look like the kind of girl who wears perfume to you? I think you're underestimating the kind of person I am...
Paimon:
Well, Paimon thinks you smell amazing! So come on Lan, what's your secret? If not perfume?
Lan:
Now that you mention it... Yes, there is something. What is that scent?
Lan:
Oh, it must be from the Qingxin flowers I picked on the way back. I forgot I still had them with me...
Paimon:
Aha! The truth is out, Lan's got a soft spot for wildflowers!
Lan:
Ahh... No, they were for medicinal use only.
Lan:
Anyway, this is a pointless conversation. If you want to know about perfume, try talking to Qiming.
Paimon:
The fortune-teller, right? Paimon remembers she smells pretty good!
Paimon:
Thanks, Lan! See you around~
Seek Qiming's advice
Qiming:
Hello. How may I help?
Paimon:
We've come to ask you a question...
Qiming:
Perfume? I rarely think to use it, let alone about how to make it myself.
Qiming:
That said, some of the cosmetics I use are scented. Perhaps that's the cause of this confusion.
Qiming:
Since I usually set up my stall by the docks, I avoid perfume like the plague. Because Celestia forbid those lusty sailors catch a whiff and come hunting for the source!
Paimon:
That's the worst thing Paimon's heard all day.
Qiming:
While we're on the subject, have you never heard anyone mention Ying'er's homemade perfume?
Paimon:
Ying'er... Oh, as in Scent of Spring Ying'er?
Qiming:
Yes, that's her. Many a rich family's daughter has gotten her to make perfume for them. Apparently, her homemade product is better than anything you'll find on the market.
Paimon:
Great, this is just the intel we need! Finally, we're getting somewhere.
Seek Ying'er's advice
Ying'er:
Well hello... You found me at last. I've been waiting for you.
Paimon:
What? How did you know we were coming?
Ying'er:
Oh, I heard a rumor about a couple who were snooping around town looking for a sweet-smelling lady...
Ying'er:
Actually, I was starting to worry you wouldn't find me. This is the ultimate test of my appeal, after all...
Paimon:
"Snooping around"? Why are you making it out like we're bad people?
Ying'er:
What can I say? People love to talk... Maybe you ought to be more discreet in the future if you don't want word to get around.
Ying'er:
Relax... I know why you're here. You want to get your hand on my homemade perfume, don't you? What kind would you like?
Ying'er:
Three in one go... My goodness.
Ying'er:
You have extreme tastes for someone your age. Maybe the rumors I heard were true after all. You're on the prowl and need some sweet-smelling ammunition, is that it?
Ying'er:
Tsk... Is that the best you could come up with? Even if you were genuinely offering perfume to a deity, that doesn't explain why you'd need three kinds. Sorry, your story just doesn't hold water!
Paimon:
Zhongli was right... People don't remember this tradition anymore.
Ying'er:
As one of my favorite poems goes, "Oh, cherry tree, begrudge not thy blossoms as they are deflowered in the spring, for come winter, even thy sturdiest wood shall wither."
Paimon:
That went over Paimon's head a little...
Ying'er:
In short, I'm happy to help. Traveler, you can be my assistant. But you'd better make sure I'm the only person on your mind while you're hanging around with me...
Traveler:
Okay...
Ying'er:
So... Where is a good place for making sweet, sweet perfume?
Ying'er:
Where is that? Mondstadt? We're only making some perfume, there's no need to go to such ridiculous lengths.
Ying'er:
Somewhere closer to home will do. Let's go for the kitchen at the Wanmin Restaurant.
Rendezvous with Ying'er
Ying'er:
I've had a word with Chef Mao. We can start work now.
Ying'er:
Are you ready to please me?
Paimon:
...What did you say?
Ying'er:
I meant make me proud. As my assistant. Obviously.
Ying'er:
While I'm setting up, you can go and fetch some water.
Talk to Ying'er
Ying'er:
This water will do nicely.
Ying'er:
Now, I need you to extract the Silk Flower essence using a crafting bench.
Ying'er:
Perfume-making uses an altogether different technique from alchemy. Here, let me teach you. Very carefully, take hold of the mortar and pestle... Gently does it...
Ying'er:
You need to keep your wrist firm so your hand doesn't slip...
Ying'er:
Now, use your strong hand to stir it with a persistent rhythm... Keep going until the juices start to come out...
Ying'er:
Ooh... You're a natural! Like a fish to water.
Ying'er:
Now, take these and try it out on your own using a nearby crafting bench.
Ying'er:
Don't forget to do all three. They look visually identical during the essence extraction process, but I will put them into separate containers when the perfume is ready.
Give the Silk Flower Essence to Ying'er
Ying'er:
Wow, this is some exquisite Silk Flower Essence. On to the next stage, the most important one of all...
Ying'er:
The essence is placed into water and simmered over low heat until most of the water has boiled off.
Ying'er:
You must take care to control the heat during this process. If the temperature goes too high, it will affect the scent.
Ying'er:
So please, focus on controlling the heat. This is the final step.
Ying'er:
Don't waste a drop of that essence, now. We want all of it in there.
With a little guidance, you help Ying'er make some perfume.
Ying'er:
All three perfumes are ready. And you, my friend, were a wonderful assistant.
Ying'er:
A testament to the lengths you will go to for romance... It's so rare to see nowadays.
Ying'er:
Anyway... Shall I give you a brief overview of each scent? It might just help you match the right scent to the right occasion...
Paimon:
Paimon wants to hear this!
Ying'er:
This first one is sweet as candy, straight out of a fairy tale... Younger women will love it.
Ying'er:
The second one is for those with more refined tastes... The first choice for daughters of high society.
Ying'er:
Finally, the third one has a soft but lingering scent, like a mist that captures the last light of dusk. Mature women adore this one.
Ying'er:
All clear? Don't get them mixed up now, you'll ruin the mood...
Traveler:
I... I think I got it...
Ying'er:
Good. Be sure to come visit if you ever need help with anything, okay?
Ying'er:
I'll leave you with some parting words:
Ying'er:
One who tries to sail three boats simultaneously should be careful not to go overboard.
Traveler:
...
Ying'er:
Heh. Come and hang out with me at Scent of Spring sometime, okay?
Offer the perfumes to the Statue of The Seven
Paimon:
We've brought the perfumes, Mr. Zhongli!
Paimon:
Did we take too long? You were just staring up at the statue...
Zhongli:
Oh, you're back. Don't worry, I haven't waited long.
Zhongli:
Compared to the watch that Rex Lapis' statues have kept over Liyue, this was but a brief moment.
Paimon:
Haha, well, how can a person compete with a statue?
Zhongli:
That is true. Well, have you brought the perfumes?
Paimon:
Three sets and not one less!
Zhongli:
Thank you both. Let us offer them up.
Traveler:
Offer Golden House Maiden
Paimon:
This is the first kind of perfume. Ms. Ying'er said that it's sweet as a dream, and it's liked by younger ladies.
Traveler:
Offer Valley Weaver
Paimon:
This is the second kind. It's got an elegant smell, and the daughters of high society love it!
Traveler:
Offer Fate's Yearning
Paimon:
The third kind has a gentle but lingering fragrance, something something like the dusk mist, and it's a favorite of mature ladies.
Paimon:
Oh... what was that?
Paimon:
That's the one older ladies like, right?
Paimon:
Does that mean that Rex Lapis is actually an older lady?
Zhongli:
Haha, perhaps, perhaps.
Zhongli:
Rex Lapis has taken on countless forms. Perhaps that really was one of them.
Paimon:
What a shame, we only got to see the giant dragon form, and...
Paimon:
Let's hope the Qixing can catch the real killer.
Zhongli:
We can leave that to the authorities. Let us focus on the fond farewell for Rex Lapis.
Paimon:
So, we've finished another step in our preparations. What's next?
Zhongli:
Next, I would like the two of you to help me borrow the Cleansing Bell.
Paimon:
Cleansing Bell?
Zhongli:
At present, a friend of mine named Madame Ping is the guardian of the Cleansing Bell. She lives near Yujing Terrace. If you ask her, she will know what to do.
Paimon:
Sure, but... aren't you going to come with us?
Zhongli:
Ah, I have certain reasons why I cannot be there in person. Please do this for me.
Paimon:
Man, why's he got to be so secretive this time?
Who would have guessed — Madame Ping is an adeptus! After leaving her household, which turned out to be a realm within a teapot, you proceed to Chihu Rock to continue preparations.
Go and buy kites
Granny Shan:
Ah, sir, you're here. The seven kites you asked for have been made to order. Would you like to take them now?
Zhongli:
Yes. Thank you.
Granny Shan:
It's rare to see customers who want to buy this type of kite nowadays. In the early days, we used to get orders from people of all walks of life...
Paimon:
Well, this is Mr. Zhongli from the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor, so he's probably well-versed in all these walks of life.
Paimon:
We've talked about a whole bunch of things while traveling with him...
Paimon:
He seems to know Liyue's favorite topics, money and government, really well, but he likes talking about less useful topics instead.
Zhongli:
Well, that's because I prefer to share fun things with you.
Granny Shan:
Children's toys are very fun things, that's for sure. I enjoy watching the children at play as much as anyone else. But there is more to it than that.
Granny Shan:
Finely crafted toys are well-loved by children. But this craft itself has been honed over thousands of years, and there is meaning behind that.
Granny Shan:
I have made kites in Liyue for forty years, and I am intimately familiar with the forms passed down from my ancestors. The meaning of these seven kites is far from banal.
Zhongli:
Indeed. These are decorations used in the Rite of Parting. The seven kites represent The Seven.
Granny Shan:
I took the liberty of coloring outside the lines when doing the insignia of the Anemo Archon.
Granny Shan:
As for the kite that honors the Geo Archon, one must follow the contract given right down to the last letter. These patterns are ancient, and you can also find them in the Golden House.
Paimon:
Ah, Paimon's heard that name before—
Paimon:
Huh?
Zhongli:
The design of this kite displays a firm grasp on the cyclicality and eternity so dear to the Electro Archon.
Zhongli:
These markings of tree and leaf pay due honor to wisdom and the passage of time. All this, on a single kite — truly astonishing.
Zhongli:
Justice flows across the surface of the waters, war rages like a flame, as does that which the Cryo Archon once... yes, these details are masterfully done.
Granny Shan:
Hehehe, the compliments of a learned man truly are pleasant.
Zhongli:
Well then, Granny Shan, I shall take these back with me. As for the payment...
Childe:
Well, allow me.
Paimon:
Hey, it's Childe!
Childe:
Haha. No, I was merely passing through.
Childe:
I see Mr. Zhongli's the same as ever. When paying— Well, when getting others to pay for him, he neither looks at the price tag nor his wallet.
Childe:
He knows a great deal about money, and about the trials of the common man. He just doesn't consider poverty to be something that could ever happen to him.
Childe:
Or perhaps you could say that he cannot imagine himself lacking money.
Paimon:
How has he not died of hunger yet?
Zhongli:
...Childe, you are as fond of jokes as ever. Well then, since we've purchased our kites without incident, there's no need to take a break before moving to the next step in our preparations.
Zhongli:
The Rite of Parting requires helping hands as well as materials. We should be able to find some people near the harbor.
Childe:
Oh, by the way, Traveler, take this bag of money. You probably won't want to let Zhongli do the bargaining, if you know what I mean.
Childe:
Hmm... It seems I missed out on some interesting information.
Childe:
...I suppose I'll just have to find a more opportune moment next time.
Talk to Childe
Childe:
All finished then? Splendid. Any leftover cash is yours to keep — a favor for the Fatui should never go unrewarded.
Paimon:
You think you can buy us off with some loose change? No way! Paimon demands to know when the next payment is coming!
Childe:
Haha. Well, how does this sound: You give me the information I need, and maybe I'll leave the Northland Bank's vaults open and unattended for half an hour...
Paimon:
What info do you need!?
Traveler:
No!
Paimon:
Huh? Traveler, does that mean you know what he's after?
Paimon:
Yikes! You're right, Signora...
Childe:
...
Childe:
You both need to calm down... I don't know what's gotten into you, Traveler.
Childe:
Just what is this about? The atmosphere got so tense all of a sudden.
Paimon:
Ehh...
Zhongli turns up just in time to break the awkward atmosphere...
Zhongli:
Next, we need some Everlasting Incense. For this, we need to go to Bubu Pharmacy, the finest pharmacy in all of—
Zhongli:
Is... everything okay?
Childe:
Everything is fine. I was just informing them that they need not return the surplus Mora.
Childe:
Now, if you'll excuse me, I must be going.
After identifying Rex Lapis' preferred scent, Zhongli sends you to Yujing Terrace to seek out an old friend of his, Madame Ping, and borrow a certain Cleansing Bell. Strange... Zhongli seems to be avoiding his old friend...
Talk to Madame Ping
Madame Ping:
All things must change...
Madame Ping:
Mm? Youngster, are you here to admire the flowers?
Madame Ping:
But it's a shame. These Glaze Lilies have almost all wilted...
Paimon:
What happened to them?
Madame Ping:
Back in my day, people said that Glaze Lilies can read human hearts.
Madame Ping:
If they heard beautiful sounds like laughter and singing, they would also bloom joyfully.
Madame Ping:
But if they heard too much wild gossip or slander, they would quickly wither away.
Paimon:
...So that means these flowers feel what's happening in Liyue.
Madame Ping:
Yes, the rumors of Rex Lapis' death are no small matter. They are everywhere.
Madame Ping:
Some say it was a Fatui plot. Others say that the Qixing made it all up, and still others think that That Which Lies in the Deep is breaking free.
Madame Ping:
This harbor is like a mountain of dry tinder. One spark and the fire will consume us all.
Madame Ping:
...Well, I shall say no more. This old woman's grown too old and naggy... Did you have something to say, youngster?
Madame Ping:
Ah, that old trinket... I remember it being here with me, but I've grown old. I can't quite recall where it is exactly.
Madame Ping:
An old friend of mine used to wear it on his person, back when I was young...
Madame Ping:
He saw me gazing at it often and gave it to me.
Madame Ping:
But he told me then that if someone should come to borrow that bell, I should not be loath to part with it.
Madame Ping:
It has been many years, and who knows how many times someone has come to borrow this bell.
Madame Ping:
Still, though I can't recall when it started, it's been a long time since anyone has come to borrow it.
Madame Ping:
Ah, these old bones are so slow to look for things. I doubt you can wait that long...
Paimon:
That's right granny. We'll follow you back home, and search for it ourselves!
Paimon:
And... Um, we can help with chores if you have any too!
Madame Ping:
Alright, children, there is no need to worry. I didn't place the bell very far away.
Paimon:
Eh? Do you live near here, granny? Whoa, but this is Yujing Terrace. It's gotta be expensive!
Madame Ping:
Haha, an old lady like me can't afford to buy a place in this city. See this ceramic teapot? My entire household is in here.
Paimon:
...How does that work?
Madame Ping:
Hohoho, youngsters. I simply mean that the bell is somewhere inside this teapot, and you are quite welcome to borrow it — if you can find it.
Talk to Madame Ping
Madame Ping:
Ho-ho, in and out in no time... You youngsters really are quick.
Madame Ping:
An adeptus... I haven't heard anyone say those words in earnest for a long time.
Madame Ping:
As to whether I am one or not, child, surely you already understand?
Paimon:
Ugh... Paimon kinda knows what you mean, but is also kinda confused. Are you really giving us the bell just like that Granny?
Paimon:
Don't you think it's weird? Something's just happened to Rex Lapis, and then we come running up asking for it...
Madame Ping:
Oh, don't be silly. Liyue Harbor has been through a great deal in its history. In that time, it has seen the departure of countless adepti.
Madame Ping:
But no matter what, we have always performed the Rite of Parting first before any other matters.
Madame Ping:
To cry "catch the murderer!" at the top of one's lungs, but ignore the Rite of Parting... That, to me, is what is wrong-headed.
Madame Ping:
Now that you have come to borrow the bell, I guess that perhaps an old friend of mine has finally decided to take matters into their own hands.
Madame Ping:
So, why would I be unwilling to lend you the bell?
Madame Ping:
Oh? Well, if it came to that... Haha, they would find a certain old lady knocking at their door.
Madame Ping:
We haven't met in a while anyway, it would be nice to share a drink and chat.
Madame Ping:
Well, you must have things to do. Since you have the bell, you should return.
Madame Ping:
Oh, and, do tell the person who sent you...
Madame Ping:
...that if they have time, they can come over for tea. I don't have much to offer, but you can always count on an old lady for a pot of tea.
Paimon:
We will! Thanks, granny!
Put the perfume and Cleansing Bell in place
Zhongli:
Indeed, this is the Cleansing Bell. Hmm, it's in good condition.
Zhongli:
Let's place the perfume we've prepared inside.
Zhongli:
Of course. How would I know that the bell was with her, otherwise?
Paimon:
That's suspicious! But if you don't want to talk about it, we won't pry.
Paimon:
Oh, yes! That old granny asked us to tell you something.
Paimon:
"If you have the time, you can come over for tea. I don't have much to offer, but you can always count on an old lady for a pot of tea."
Zhongli:
Ha, that tone does not suit you. Still, her teapot is indeed very good. There are none better for brewing tea.
Zhongli:
When a suitable time arrives, I'll bring a spot of fine tea and pay her a visit.
Paimon:
So, what's the next step in our preparations?
Zhongli:
Hmm... Next, we need to purchase kites.
Paimon:
Ooh! Paimon loves kites! Are you taking us kite flying? Is this our break time?
Zhongli:
Haha, no, no. Kites are children's toys, yes, but they also play various symbolic roles in Liyue's rituals.
Zhongli:
I will explain it to you. But our next course of action should probably be to purchase the kites first.
Paimon:
Oh, sure... curiouser and curiouser...
You came to renowned purveyor of Liyue herbal medicine, Bubu Pharmacy, to procure some Everlasting Incense. But what started out as a straightforward trip to the pharmacy has turned into a far more complicated affair...
Go to Bubu Pharmacy
Paimon:
Huh, the reception is deserted. And it seems kinda spooky in here...
Paimon:
Hello? Is anybody there?
???:
Welcome to Bubu Pharmacy.
Paimon:
...
Paimon:
D—Did you hear that? Wh—Where did it come from?
Zhongli:
The reception, it seems.
Paimon:
Traveler, how about... you go check it out, and... Paimon will bring up the rear.
Find the source of the mystery voice
Paimon:
Oh, there you are! But you can't even reach the counter!
Paimon:
Ah... Paimon thinks you might be right! Look at the talisman on her forehead!
Qiqi:
Welcome to Bubu Pharmacy. I am Qiqi.
Qiqi:
Once upon a time, Qiqi died. Then, Qiqi was saved by the adepti. Now, Qiqi is a zombie.
Paimon:
Something like this would be unimaginable in Mondstadt...
Zhongli:
Hello... little girl. Do you sell Everlasting Incense here?
Qiqi:
Excuse me, sir. Did you bring your prescription?
Zhongli:
I... Surely no prescription is needed to purchase Everlasting Incense? It's not a controlled substance...
Qiqi:
Qiqi can get your medicine. But only if you show Qiqi your prescription. These are Qiqi's orders, from Qiqi.
Zhongli:
Zombies are limited to acting within the confines of their orders. And somehow, in this case, the zombie issues her own orders to herself.
Zhongli:
My dear Qiqi, we didn't bring a prescription, I'm afraid. But we do hope that you can still help us find some Everlasting Incense.
Qiqi:
Okay then.
Paimon:
How did you manage that?
Qiqi:
But. Qiqi helps you, you help Qiqi. Only fair.
Paimon:
Since when do customers need to do favors for customer service staff?
Zhongli:
Never mind, just think of it as a peer-to-peer transaction. That way everybody wins. Sometimes, in Liyue, the art of the deal is simply about victory via mental gymnastics.
Qiqi:
Go to Mt. Tianheng. Find the Guizhong Ballista. And hunt a Cocogoat. Please and thank you.
Zhongli:
Guizhong Ballista... I have heard of this device before.
Zhongli:
It is a kind of crossbow turret, installed on Mt. Tianheng by an adeptus in the distant past. An early mechanical device.
Zhongli:
Located in Tianheng Pass, it was designed to automatically fire at large monsters, protecting Liyue from external threats.
Paimon:
Mr. Zhongli really knows Liyue inside out!
Zhongli:
Apparently, not quite... This is the first I have ever heard of the "Cocogoat."
Qiqi:
The Cocogoat is a legendary animal. An adeptibeast.
Paimon:
Did you wanna add anything else, or...
Qiqi:
No. Just that the Cocogoat is a legendary animal. An adeptibeast.
Qiqi:
What it looks like: don't know. Where to find it: don't know either. Where it came from: also don't know.
Zhongli:
Very well then... Let's start by investigating near the Guizhong Ballista. Perhaps we will find some clues.
Paimon:
What the heck is a Cocogoat...
Inspect the Guizhong Ballista
Paimon:
It's huge! Paimon can totally believe it took an adeptus to build this.
Paimon:
But... how do you operate this thing? Just think how much strength you would need...
Zhongli:
Hmm... It is currently inoperable, in any case. This device is broken.
Paimon:
Aw, what? It broke!?
Zhongli:
After millennia of wear and tear, even adepti contraptions are difficult to maintain.
Paimon:
So what're we gonna do? Quick, Mr. Zhongli, use your unlimited high-society knowledge powers!
Zhongli:
Hmm. You almost make it sound like I'm some sort of... bourgeois parasite, whose only utility lies in providing quaint pieces of trivia on demand.
Zhongli:
That said, let me think for a moment... Ah yes. Spare parts were made for the Guizhong Ballista when it was first built, in case it was damaged in battle.
Zhongli:
As I recall, there is a military supply post from that period somewhere inside the Pass.
Zhongli:
If we can retrieve the spare parts from where they are stored, we may be able to repair the Guizhong Ballista. One just needs to understand the basic working principles of the device.
Paimon:
So... what you're saying is that you actually understand the working principles?
Zhongli:
I have a smattering of knowledge on the topic.
Zhongli:
With the parts in hand, I could at least tinker with it.
Repair the Guizhong Ballista
Zhongli:
These parts look useful.
Zhongli:
One moment, I will try to repair the device...
Zhongli:
It is done. The Guizhong Ballista is more intricately designed than I thought.
Paimon:
Woo! Now how do we turn it on?
Zhongli:
It's easy enough. We simply need to do this... Look, it even has a scope.
You search for the Cocogoat using the Guizhong Ballista...
Paimon:
Over here we have... Nothing. And over there... More nothing.
Freckle Huang:
Hey! Just what do you think you're doing!?
Freckle Huang:
So, you've fixed up this turret... because you're planning to do what, exactly!?
Zhongli:
Not a turret. A Guizhong Ballista. Also, kindly state your name before you ask a question, it's just good manners.
Freckle Huang:
Hah! Are you blind or something? You're looking at the leader of the Treasure Hoarders, old man!
Freckle Huang:
This area's supposed to be chock-full of hidden treasures, but you can't get anywhere near them with this thing keeping watch. It might look like any other mechanical device, but trust me, it's got a mind of its own!
Freckle Huang:
Last time we approached the mountain, it nearly skewered one of our guys...
Freckle Huang:
A few of us risked our lives to disarm it — which, amazingly, we managed — and then we turn our backs for two seconds and you've ALREADY GONE AND REPAIRED IT!?
Freckle Huang:
The next thing you'll be repairing is your faces, and that's if you get out of this alive!
Zhongli:
Tut-tut. Vandalizing the legacy of an adeptus for selfish gain. Disgraceful behavior.
Zhongli:
It is not we who need reprimanding, but you.
Paimon:
Quite right! Let's get 'em, Traveler!
Defeat the Treasure Hoarders
Paimon:
These lowlifes didn't know who they were messing with!
Zhongli:
Troubling ourselves over this rabble is not worth the time. We should focus on our contract with Qiqi.
Paimon:
Oh yeah... that. So we've got the Guizhong Ballista working, but where's our Cocogoat?
Zhongli:
A search using the Guizhong Ballista revealed no significant life forms nearby, save for the usual wildlife.
Zhongli:
What's more, a contraption built using adeptus technology should have no trouble detecting an "adeptibeast" as Qiqi put it...
Paimon:
Which means...
Zhongli:
We won't solve anything while standing here and racking our brains. Let's return to Bubu Pharmacy, explain that we could not find a Cocogoat, and review our next step.
Paimon:
Good idea. We did our best, and that's what counts.
Find Qiqi back at the Bubu Pharmacy
Zhongli:
Forgive us, we were unable to fulfill our end of the contract. We found no trace of the Cocogoat adeptibeast of which you speak.
Qiqi:
Ah. What a disappointment. Don't worry about it. But I feel very disappointed.
Paimon:
Aw, poor Qiqi... Why does Paimon feel so guilty all of a sudden?
Qiqi:
Cocogoat milk is tasty. So tasty. Much better than normal goat milk. Only an adeptibeast could make such tasty milk.
Qiqi:
I'm sorry. I have a poor memory. I cannot remember the name of the milk. That's why I wrote it down. Where did I put it...
Qiqi:
Ah. Here. This is the name. "Coconut milk."
Crowd:
Ehh!?
Zhongli:
...
Zhongli:
I owe you both an apology. I hastily agreed to what appeared to be an equitable agreement with this zombie child, when perhaps I should have undertaken further due diligence.
Paimon:
Never mind Zhongli, you didn't know. As the Liyue proverb goes, "All things are random, and... so how are you supposed to predict anything." Literally no one could have seen this coming...
Qiqi:
Excuse me, everyone. Did Qiqi say a bad thing?
Paimon:
Ooh... Sorry, Traveler, but Paimon's gonna leave the job of shattering this poor kiddo's world to you...
Qiqi:
No... Im—Impossible...
Paimon:
Seems Qiqi took this pretty hard.
???:
Haha, someone learnt a valuable life lesson today, then? Thank you all for looking after my little Qiqi.
Zhongli:
Might I ask, who...
Baizhu:
Ah, how rude of me. I'm Baizhu, boss of the Bubu Pharmacy.
Paimon:
Paimon thought Qiqi was the boss... turns out it's some wacko who wears medicinal ingredients around his neck!
White Snake:
What a sorry state of affairs... This little mascot is even more of a simpleton than Qiqi...
Paimon:
Ah! The medicine— The snake is s—speaking!
White Snake:
Hmph! I prefer to stay silent. But faced with strangers, I must speak, lest you mistake me for an escapee from the medicine cabinet, for I am a living, breathing, serpent!
Baizhu:
Hahaha, don't mind Changsheng, she's a good girl, really. As for you three... Communal chaos-causing with Qiqi aside, what business brings you here?
Zhongli:
Do you sell Everlasting Incense in this fine establishment?
Baizhu:
Everlasting Incense? Why, of course we do!
Paimon:
Phew, at last! Things are finally starting to come together—
Baizhu:
Three million Mora, top quality, guaranteed.
Paimon:
You might as well just rob the Golden House! Oh, but the Qixing have taken it over for now... Security will be tighter than usual.
Zhongli:
Hmm... Three million... An innocuous number in and of itself, though practically speaking, it could be a hard sum to come by.
Paimon:
It's a crazy number! We'd never be able to make that much Mora, and as for Mr. Zhongli... he's around three million short.
Zhongli:
This is correct.
Traveler:
No shame...
Paimon:
What're we gonna do? Is this the part where we go crawling back to Childe...?
Twenty minutes later...
Childe:
Bwahahahahahaha!
Childe:
Cocogoat! Cocogo— Ahahaow my sides hurt... Oh my goodness, I cannot BELIEVE you fell for that!
Paimon:
Hey! Less laughter, more sympathy!
Childe:
I'm almost in tears over here... Ah, thank you, that was the best laugh I've had in a long time. In return, I'm more than happy to sort out this mess you've managed to get yourselves into...
Childe:
Excuse me, sir... Dr. Baizhu, isn't it? Truly honored, I'm Childe, one of the Fatui Harbingers. Forgive my audacity, but I see a great many opportunities for us to collaborate in the future...
Childe:
If Bubu Pharmacy needed a stable supply of, say, coconut milk, the Fatui could help by setting up a robust and speedy distribution network.
Changsheng:
Strange... I knew the Fatui infiltrated businesses with seductive deals, but... So much fuss over coconut milk?
Qiqi:
Coconut milk. Baizhu. Quick. Qiqi wants coconut milk.
Baizhu:
Ah... Yes, of course, Qiqi, anything you want... Th—Thank you, Childe. I look forward to a successful collaboration in the future. I can give you a discount on that Everlasting Incense too, let's say... 2,990,000 Mora.
Paimon:
That's like, zero difference from three million!
Zhongli:
Hmm... 2,990,000... Also an innocuous number in and of itself, though practically speaking it is a whole ten thousand less than the original sum of three million.
Zhongli:
Well, now that this is settled, we must head back to Yujing Terrace. Mr. Childe, Dr. Baizhu, Little Miss Qiqi, see you soon.
It appears Childe made it here before you, though in truth he hasn't gone far...
Childe:
That lot is an absolute riot. Honestly, I can't remember the last time I laughed so hard.
Childe:
So. You've been eavesdropping, I hope. What have I missed?
Ekaterina:
Yes, Master Childe. They spoke of the Qixing taking the Golden House...
Childe:
Well, well, well. Ningguang and her Qixing cronies. What else would they be hiding in the Golden House... if not the Exuvia?
Childe:
I apologize, Traveler. But I warned you, didn't I? As the old Liyue saying goes: "The walls have ears."
Put the Everlasting Incense in place
Zhongli:
Well, as it stands, we've hired helpers, and we've acquired the Everlasting Incense. The completion of our preparations is not far off.
Paimon:
Whew... Finally!
Zhongli:
Well, Traveler, have you gained anything from our adventure so far?
Traveler:
It's been... odd.
Zhongli:
Odd?
Zhongli:
Haha, which is it, I wonder?
Zhongli:
The questions that such travels raise are ever so complicated. Well, I'll leave you to ruminate over it yourself. As to remuneration for your help, I've decided...
Zhongli:
...to treat you to a meal.
Zhongli:
Oh? Ah yes, don't worry. I will remember to bring the Mora this time.
Zhongli:
Tonight, I shall take you both to an old hole-in-the-wall, praised throughout Liyue.
Paimon:
Hole-in-the-wall? As in... a cool restaurant?
Zhongli:
Indeed. Let us meet near the harbor at "Third-Round Knockout."
That Bubu Pharmacy trip turned into quite an exhilarating ride. (Okay, maybe not that exhilarating.) In yet another remarkable twist, Zhongli has offered to treat you to dinner!
Sit next to Zhongli
Zhongli:
Ah, you're here. There's no need to order, I've already done so.
Zhongli:
"Third-Round Knockout" is not for lightweights, like those taverns in Mondstadt. Here, the owner does not take such unorthodox orders as fruit juice.
Traveler:
So, does this mean I can order wine this time?
Zhongli:
I ordered some wine-fermented sweet rice balls for you, if that counts.
Traveler:
I guess I should have expected this...
Iron Tongue Tian:
...If it is to your liking, dear customers, I shall continue the tale of Lady Ningguang's Jade Chamber.
Paimon:
Hey, there's even a storyteller here! Great atmosphere!
Zhongli:
Besides fine wine, the excellent ambience is the reason why this place is so well-loved.
Zhongli:
But when I say ambience, I refer to a different sort from the one the Teyvat Travel Guide uses to judge other establishments.
Iron Tongue Tian:
As you all know, high above the land of Liyue lies a pavilion in the clouds, a palace in the mist...
Iron Tongue Tian:
What does it mean to have all-seeing eyes? This, my friends: Lady Ningguang's masterwork that bridges earth and sky.
Iron Tongue Tian:
Imagine. The weather is clear, and you gaze down from the deck on the world below...
Iron Tongue Tian:
Behold! The glorious sights of Liyue Harbor, stretching out far and wide!
movie
Iron Tongue Tian grows animated as he broaches the topic of Tianquan Ningguang's palace in the sky, the Jade Chamber. All become fascinated by the Tianquan as he tells her tale of ultra-secretive scheming and "paper snow..."
Iron Tongue Tian:
These are but scraps of paper, and yet they guide Lady Ningguang's hand — such is their value.
Iron Tongue Tian:
Merely grasping one or two of them will surely gift you a fragment of her wisdom — enough to stay a step or two ahead of your peers.
Paimon:
Tianquan Ningguang... feels like we're hearing this name a lot.
Paimon:
Liyue locals talk about her, the Fatui hate her, she's most likely the one who hid the Exuvia, and we saw her at the Rite of Descension...
Paimon:
Huh, Paimon wonders what sort of person she is.
???:
At last, I have found you, you who returned from Jueyun Karst.
Paimon:
Who's there!?
Traveler:
Paimon, we gotta go... !
???:
Wait! I am not with the Millelith, nor am I here to claim your bounty.
Ganyu:
However, I am an emissary of the Liyue Qixing. My name is Ganyu, secretary at the Yuehai Pavilion, and I have come specifically to meet you.
Ganyu:
Well, in concrete terms, I am the corporate secretary for the Qixing. At the moment, I am serving as Lady Ningguang's special emissary.
Paimon:
Ningguang sent you? We were literally just talking about her...
Ganyu:
My apologies, you who have returned from Jueyun Karst... I am duty-bound, and cannot extend my courtesy to you in full.
Ganyu:
But I have with me a letter from Lady Ningguang. She extends a formal invitation to you in her capacity as Tianquan.
Ganyu:
She invites you to her palace in the sky.
Paimon:
An official invitation...?
Ganyu:
Lady Ningguang said this:
Ganyu:
"Invite him to come here."
Ganyu:
"I wish to meet him."
Ganyu:
"At the Jade Chamber, together, we shall snip every one of these entwining dark threads."
Paimon:
And with that, the emissary who called herself Ganyu just disappeared...
Paimon:
But we've received an invitation from the Liyue Qixing. Paimon still can't believe it!
Paimon:
Traveler! We'll be meeting people that have way more money than Paimon could ever count... We should be on our best manners!
Zhongli:
Hah... An invitation to visit the Jade Chamber is a rare honor, indeed.
Zhongli:
You'd best be on your way now. But don't forget about the Rite of Parting. Once you've finished at the Jade Chamber, meet me at Dihua Marsh.