arrow_back Genshin Impact: Nhiệm Vụ 
Cisoria Chapter: Act I
When They Talk About Tonight
Danh sách nhiệm vụ
A fashion festival is being held in Fontaine. You and Paimon decide to check it out for yourselves...
Go to the Court of Fontaine: Quartier Lyonnais
Paimon:
It seems like there's another event going on at the Court of Fontaine! Look at that — roadside signs as far as the eye can see!
Paimon:
Let's see what they're for... "Fontaine Fashion Week"?
Paimon:
Ooh, why don't we go check out some of the shops? Maybe we can pick up some cool new clothes!
Go to Chioriya Boutique
Laetitia:
Is... Is this really okay?
Chiori:
I told you I could do it using the leftover funds from the original deposit. Don't tell me you're afraid that I cheaped out on the dress?
Laetitia:
No, not at all! I have only the fullest faith in your work, Miss Chiori.
Laetitia:
I'm just in shock, that's all. It's always been my dream to wear a Chioriya Boutique dress for my wedding... I really thought the chance had passed me by...
Paimon:
Wait, isn't that Chiori? She's actually at her shop today!
Traveler:
Perhaps it's because of "Fontaine Fashion Week"?
Paimon:
Ooh, you've got a point there! Well, once she's done with her customer, we can go and ask her!
Chiori:
I'm a woman of my word — If I say I can do something, then it will be done. The first rule of business is to always keep your promises.
Chiori:
Now, remember to not fold the gown, or store it under direct sunlight. I'd recommend only taking it out on the day of your wedding, but from the look on your face... I can tell that may be a little difficult for you.
Laetitia:
I—I'll try my best! Hehe... Once he sees me in this, his jaw is gonna drop straight to the floor!
Paimon:
Chiori! You're actually at your shop today!
Chiori:
Is that really so shocking? It is mine, after all.
Chiori:
Anything you're looking for today? A custom design, or perhaps some ready-to-wear outfits for kids?
Paimon:
Hey, Paimon's not a kid!
Traveler:
We actually wanted to ask about "Fontaine Fashion Week"...
Chiori:
Ah, that. Well, if news of the event has reached your ears, I suppose the Fontaine Apparel Association's advertising efforts have paid off.
Paimon:
Are there any fun and popular activities that we can take part in?
Chiori:
Hmm... Fashion Week isn't what I'd call "fun," but it certainly always attracts a crowd. It's a fashion extravaganza that only takes place once a year, after all.
Paimon:
Will you be showing off some of your designs, too?
Chiori:
Of course. All designers at the Court of Fontaine use the week to advertise their brand. If you're lucky, you could even land a large amount of orders as soon as the main show ends.
Chiori:
Come to think of it, it was also at a previous Fashion Week that our label first took off.
Paimon:
Hmm... aren't you pretty much an established name now? People will still buy your clothes even if you don't participate this year, right?
Chiori:
That's not quite how it works. While many people buy clothes for fit and style, the fashion industry also strongly values a label's artistic vision and creative direction.
Chiori:
Why would anyone patronize a label that hasn't even bothered to put out any new designs for the year?
Chiori:
In the end, "fashion" is just a representation of the spirit of the times. People support your brand because they support the vision it represents.
Paimon:
Uh okay... so maybe fashion's more complicated than Paimon thought...
Paimon:
All that complicated stuff aside, you're saying we'll be able to see new Chioriya designs at the show?
Chiori:
Absolutely. The designs have already been finalized — I'm just waiting for the fabrics to arrive.
Paimon:
Oh? Are you using materials you can't get in Fontaine?
Chiori:
Well, I still have a certain partiality to Inazuma-made fabrics. The textures are pleasant to the touch, and their familiarity gives me a sense of security.
Paimon:
Oh! Paimon gets it. It's that feeling of home!
Chiori:
Something like that, yes.
Paimon:
We're a long way from Inazuma, though! Aren't you concerned that your shipment might get lost or stolen on the way?
Chiori:
No need to worry. I've already taken steps to ensure that it will arrive safely — I've entrusted the job to Komaniya Express's most reliable courier.
At this moment, someone runs towards you...
???:
...Excuse me! Coming through, coming through!
Kirara:
...Chiori, your... Your shipment's here. I know it's quite late, so I'm... really... really sorry...
Chiori:
Deep breaths, Kirara — then start again.
Paimon:
Ohhh, so Kirara's the courier you were talking about!
Kirara:
Oh hey, Nhà Lữ Hành and Paimon! Fancy seeing you here in Fontaine! It's been a while.
Kirara:
Wait a second... This is the second time that you've seen me flub a delivery job now, isn't it... You somehow always happen to catch me off my game, huh...
Chiori:
So what was the hold up? Sailing delays? Bad weather?
Kirara:
Huh? No, nothing like that... I just ran into a bit of trouble, that's all.
Chiori:
Bandits, then? Or Treasure Hoarders? Huh, a few run ins on the road aren't usually enough to give you any trouble...
Kirara:
Uh... Well, I didn't run into anyone, exactly. I just got a little lost...
Kirara may have spoken thusly, but her tails were twitching nonstop.
Chiori:
Keeping you honest as always, I see.
Kirara:
...
Kirara:
Alright, alright... I was stopped by a group of bandits as soon as I entered Fontaine.
Kirara:
They were a little different from the ones I usually run into. I could hear them mumbling about the Komaniya Express. It was obvious they were looking for someone with two tails...
Paimon:
Huh? So it was a targeted hit?
Kirara:
Uh... I got the sense that they were actually targeting Chiori's goods.
Chiori:
My fabric shipment?
Kirara:
Yeah, they said that I could go as long as I left the goods with them. Otherwise, they'd stuff me into my delivery box and toss me into the sea to drown...
Paimon:
A—Are you okay, Kirara?
Kirara:
I'm good, I'm good! I'm still a youkai, after all. I turned them over to the Gardes. It just took me a while to round them all up...
Chiori:
Well, it's not completely out of the ordinary for one of your deliveries to get intercepted. But it still doesn't make sense how you knew it was my goods they were after. You've got other deliveries to make in Fontaine, don't you?
Chiori:
Is there something else that you're keeping from me?
Kirara:
Huh!? Um, well...
Chiori:
Hmm... Perhaps I need to reconsider how many stars to give you in my review...
Kirara:
Ah! You always know how to get me, Chiori! Alright, I'll talk, I'll talk...
Kirara:
So... I kinda wanted to know why anyone would order a hit on me, so I spent a bit of time investigating.
Kirara:
One of the bandits had a loose tongue, which saved me some time. He said that a certain person had commissioned them to intercept Chioriya Boutique's delivery.
Chiori:
And who might this person be?
Kirara:
Uh, Chiori, why don't we just let this one go. I mean, I didn't really get injured, and you've still got Fashion Week to worry about...
Chiori:
I appreciate your kindness, Kirara, but if I don't teach this person a lesson, I doubt they'll stop here.
Chiori:
Anyone that dares to mess with one of my friends deserves a stern talking to and then some.
Kirara:
...Alright. The guy said that the commissioner was someone by the name of "Uther."
Chiori:
Uther... Now, that name rings a bell, wouldn't you say, Kirara?
Kirara:
Well, that's exactly why I didn't want to bring it up to you...
Paimon:
Uh, so you both know this Uther guy?
Kirara:
Through Chiori's complaints about him, sure. He's a fellow fashion designer who's made it his goal in life to make hers as miserable as possible.
Paimon:
So is he like... a business rival?
Chiori:
A "rival" is what you call someone who fights you fair and square.
Chiori:
Uther, however, just has it out for me as a designer. He's publicly disparaged my design choices, my use of materials — he's practically tried every trick in the book to ruin my good name.
Chiori:
I've already warned him before to compete with me fair and square, but I guess he prefers playing dirty. Well, I'm more than happy to oblige...
Kirara:
Wait, Chiori, where are you going?
After she finishes speaking, Chiori turns and leaves...
Chiori:
To teach someone a lesson. You must be tired after your long journey — why don't you rest in my shop for a little while before heading back?
Kirara:
Chiori... Wait!
Paimon:
Aaand... She's gone.
Kirara:
Oh no... What should we do...
Paimon:
You seem concerned... Should we be worried about Chiori?
Kirara:
Well, she's always been the type of person to face things head-on. But, with her fiery temper... I'm just worried whatever she's about to do will fuel negative publicity about her right before the start of Fashion Week.
Kirara:
Nhà Lữ Hành, Paimon, could you go after her and check out the situation for me? As a formal employee of the Komaniya Express, it wouldn't be appropriate for me to get involved.
Traveler:
Sure.
Paimon:
Yeah! We'll take good care of Chiori.
Kirara:
Uh, well, to be honest... I'm more worried about that Uther guy's safety...
???:
...Excuse me! Coming through, coming through!
Kirara:
...Chiori, your... Your shipment's here. I know it's quite late, so I'm... really... really sorry...
Chiori:
Deep breaths, Kirara — then start again.
Kirara:
Huh? And you're with customers as well? Oh geez... I've really kept everyone waiting. I'm so sorry, this is all my fault.
Chiori:
These two are Nhà Lữ Hành and Paimon. With how well-traveled you are, you've probably heard of them already.
Chiori:
And this is Kirara, star courier of Komaniya Express. She's a nekomata, in case you were wondering about the tails.
Kirara:
Pleased to make your acquaintance, and sorry you had to see me like this! I know I'm late, but if an opportunity arises in the future, I still hope you'll choose the Komaniya Express!
Chiori:
So what was the hold up? Sailing delays? Bad weather?
Kirara:
Huh? No, nothing like that... I just ran into a bit of trouble, that's all.
Chiori:
Bandits, then? Or Treasure Hoarders? Huh, a few run ins on the road aren't usually enough to give you any trouble...
Kirara:
Uh... Well, I didn't run into anyone, exactly. I just got a little lost...
Kirara may have spoken thusly, but her tails were twitching nonstop.
Chiori:
Keeping you honest as always, I see.
Kirara:
...
Kirara:
Alright, alright... I was stopped by a group of bandits as soon as I entered Fontaine.
Kirara:
They were a little different from the ones I usually run into. I could hear them mumbling about the Komaniya Express. It was obvious they were looking for someone with two tails...
Paimon:
Huh? So it was a targeted hit?
Kirara:
Uh... I got the sense that they were actually targeting Chiori's goods.
Chiori:
My fabric shipment?
Kirara:
Yeah, they said that I could go as long as I left the goods with them. Otherwise, they'd stuff me into my delivery box and toss me into the sea to drown...
Paimon:
A—Are you okay, Kirara?
Kirara:
I'm good, I'm good! I'm still a youkai, after all. I turned them over to the Gardes. It just took me a while to round them all up...
Chiori:
Well, it's not completely out of the ordinary for one of your deliveries to get intercepted. But it still doesn't make sense how you knew it was my goods they were after. You've got other deliveries to make in Fontaine, don't you?
Chiori:
Is there something else that you're keeping from me?
Kirara:
Huh!? Um, well...
Chiori:
Hmm... Perhaps I need to reconsider how many stars to give you in my review...
Kirara:
Ah! You always know how to get me, Chiori! Alright, I'll talk, I'll talk...
Kirara:
So... I kinda wanted to know why anyone would order a hit on me, so I spent a bit of time investigating.
Kirara:
One of the bandits had a loose tongue, which saved me some time. He said that a certain person had commissioned them to intercept Chioriya Boutique's delivery.
Chiori:
And who might this person be?
Kirara:
Uh, Chiori, why don't we just let this one go. I mean, I didn't really get injured, and you've still got Fashion Week to worry about...
Chiori:
I appreciate your kindness, Kirara, but if I don't teach this person a lesson, I doubt they'll stop here.
Chiori:
Anyone that dares to mess with one of my friends deserves a stern talking to and then some.
Kirara:
...Alright. The guy said that the commissioner was someone by the name of "Uther."
Chiori:
Uther... Now, that name rings a bell, wouldn't you say, Kirara?
Kirara:
Well, that's exactly why I didn't want to bring it up to you...
Paimon:
Uh, so you both know this Uther guy?
Kirara:
Through Chiori's complaints about him, sure. He's a fellow fashion designer who's made it his goal in life to make hers as miserable as possible.
Paimon:
So is he like... a business rival?
Chiori:
A "rival" is what you call someone who fights you fair and square.
Chiori:
Uther, however, just has it out for me as a designer. He's publicly disparaged my design choices, my use of materials — he's practically tried every trick in the book to ruin my good name.
Chiori:
I've already warned him before to compete with me fair and square, but I guess he prefers playing dirty. Well, I'm more than happy to oblige...
Kirara:
Wait, Chiori, where are you going?
After she finishes speaking, Chiori turns and leaves...
Chiori:
To teach someone a lesson. You must be tired after your long journey — why don't you rest in my shop for a little while before heading back?
Kirara:
Chiori... Wait!
Paimon:
Aaand... She's gone.
Kirara:
Oh no... What should we do...
Paimon:
You seem concerned... Should we be worried about Chiori?
Kirara:
Well, she's always been the type of person to face things head-on. But, with her fiery temper... I'm just worried whatever she's about to do will fuel negative publicity about her right before the start of Fashion Week.
Kirara:
Nhà Lữ Hành, Paimon, could you go after her and check out the situation for me? As a formal employee of the Komaniya Express, it wouldn't be appropriate for me to get involved.
Traveler:
Sure.
Paimon:
Yeah! We'll take good care of Chiori.
Kirara:
Uh, well, to be honest... I'm more worried about that Uther guy's safety...
Paimon:
Ooh, is that lady the owner of Chioriya Boutique? We've never seen her before!
Chiori:
I'm a woman of my word — If I say I can do something, then it will be done. The first rule of business is to always keep your promises.
Chiori:
Now, remember to not fold the gown, or store it under direct sunlight. I'd recommend only taking it out on the day of your wedding, but from the look on your face... I can tell that may be a little difficult for you.
Laetitia:
I—I'll try my best! Hehe... Once he sees me in this, his jaw is gonna drop straight to the floor!
Chiori:
...Are you here to check out the offerings?
Paimon:
Sure are! Paimon's Paimon, and this is Nhà Lữ Hành. You're Ms. Chiori, the owner of this boutique, right?
Chiori:
That's right. Navia's told me about you — glad to make your acquaintance.
Paimon:
We've heard a lot about you, too! "Chioriya Boutique" is super famous in Fontaine!
Chiori:
Well, I appreciate the recognition. Is there anything you're looking for exactly? We're out of kids' clothes right now, I am afraid.
Paimon:
Hey, Paimon's not a kid!
Traveler:
We actually wanted to ask about "Fontaine Fashion Week"...
Chiori:
Ah, that. Well, if news of the event has reached your ears, I suppose the Fontaine Apparel Association's advertising efforts have paid off.
Paimon:
Are there any fun and popular activities that we can take part in?
Chiori:
Hmm... Fashion Week isn't what I'd call "fun," but it certainly always attracts a crowd. It's a fashion extravaganza that only takes place once a year, after all.
Paimon:
Will you be showing off some of your designs, too?
Chiori:
Of course. All designers at the Court of Fontaine use the week to advertise their brand. If you're lucky, you could even land a large amount of orders as soon as the main show ends.
Chiori:
Come to think of it, it was also at a previous Fashion Week that our label first took off.
Paimon:
Hmm... aren't you pretty much an established name now? People will still buy your clothes even if you don't participate this year, right?
Chiori:
That's not quite how it works. While many people buy clothes for fit and style, the fashion industry also strongly values a label's artistic vision and creative direction.
Chiori:
Why would anyone patronize a label that hasn't even bothered to put out any new designs for the year?
Chiori:
In the end, "fashion" is just a representation of the spirit of the times. People support your brand because they support the vision it represents.
Paimon:
Uh okay... so maybe fashion's more complicated than Paimon thought...
Paimon:
All that complicated stuff aside, you're saying we'll be able to see new Chioriya designs at the show?
Chiori:
Absolutely. The designs have already been finalized — I'm just waiting for the fabrics to arrive.
Paimon:
Oh? Are you using materials you can't get in Fontaine?
Chiori:
Well, I still have a certain partiality to Inazuma-made fabrics. The textures are pleasant to the touch, and their familiarity gives me a sense of security.
Paimon:
Oh! Paimon gets it. It's that feeling of home!
Chiori:
Something like that, yes.
Paimon:
We're a long way from Inazuma, though! Aren't you concerned that your shipment might get lost or stolen on the way?
Chiori:
No need to worry. I've already taken steps to ensure that it will arrive safely — I've entrusted the job to Komaniya Express's most reliable courier.
Catch up with Chiori
Chiori:
Any chance you're on the clock, Officer?
Chevreuse:
...Nothing good ever comes out of you addressing me like that.
Chevreuse:
Oh? And who are these two?
Chiori:
Ah, so you came, too.
Chiori:
Ah, allow me to introduce you. These two are Nhà Lữ Hành and Paimon. This officer over here is Chevreuse, captain of the Special Security and Surveillance Patrol.
Paimon:
The... The Special Security and Surveillance Patrol? You mean that organization where everyone carries a musket?
Chevreuse:
Well, I wouldn't say everyone on the Patrol uses a musket. I just happen to have formed a platoon made up mostly of musketeers.
Paimon:
Whoa, Chiori, Paimon didn't know you went so far back with such a cool person!
Chiori:
It's nothing. In my line of work, it's not uncommon to run into some trouble every now and then, and she's helped me get out of a few sticky situations.
Chiori:
In return, I've helped her take care of some things that you could say aren't exactly in her purview as the captain of the Special Patrol... and that's how we got to know each other.
Chevreuse:
It's nice to meet you both. I have to say, your reputation precedes you.
Chevreuse:
Oh? And I see the Traveler and Paimon are here too.
Paimon:
Chevreuse! We meet again!
Chevreuse:
Well, things have been fine on my end. We were able to bring in a large number of recruits thanks to that film we made.
Chevreuse:
I suppose the trade off is that I'm now constantly getting stopped for autographs while out on patrol — not ideal if you ask me.
Paimon:
Hehe, well, you were one of the leading roles, after all!
Chevreuse:
So, did something happen?
Chiori:
Indeed it did. I'll need you to come with me.
Chevreuse:
...I only ever hear that phrase from you. Usually, I'm the one asking people to do that.
Chiori:
Well, are you coming?
Chevreuse:
Not before I know what you're planning.
Chiori:
Have I ever made a bad call?
Chevreuse:
The better question is, have you ever made one that didn't violate proper procedure?
Chiori:
Okay, a man hired a group of bandits to mug my friend. I'm about to go teach him a lesson.
Chevreuse:
Are you sure this is something you should be telling the captain of the Special Patrol? It's getting hard to tell whether you're here to report a case or turn yourself in for one.
Chiori:
Neither. I'm requesting personal supervision from said captain so I don't do anything too out of line.
Chevreuse:
Are you planning to?
Chiori:
Not if I can help it.
Chevreuse:
...
Chevreuse:
Alright, where is this person?
Chiori:
Follow me.
Chevreuse:
Just promise you'll start trying to keep yourself out of trouble.
Chiori:
Well, when trouble stops coming my way, I'll be sure to get on that.
Follow Chiori
Chiori:
This should be the place. You all wait here. I'll go have a chat with him.
Paimon:
Y'know, Chevreuse, Paimon gets the sense that you two are actually pretty close.
Chevreuse:
It's just as Chiori said — we got to know each other pretty well in our lines of work... You could call it a "you scratch my back, and I'll scratch yours" sort of situation.
Paimon:
Does Chiori often need your help?
Chevreuse:
Eh, I'd say it's mutual. The Special Patrol needs her help quite often as well. We've got tough problems of our own — getting people to talk, for example.
Chevreuse:
The uniform, the musket, they're intimidating. Most people clam up the minute they see us, lips sealed so tight, getting them to talk almost feels like trying to break into the Fortress of Meropide.
Chevreuse:
But put them in a clothing boutique, and they suddenly start gushing faster than the waters at the Fountain of Lucine.
Paimon:
Oh! Is it because they're trying to show off or something?
Chevreuse:
Yep. People are vain creatures — they can't help but want to talk up new developments in their lives, or show off how much they know about other people. And nothing brings out that sort of vanity quite like fashion.
Chevreuse:
As a result, Chiori often picks up on all kinds of information in her shop. Most of her customers are members of the upper class, which means they're pretty much up to the gills in wealth and intel.
Paimon:
You scratch my back, and I'll scratch yours... Paimon gets it now.
Chevreuse:
Exactly. I'm also here to ensure Chiori's safety. Those who make trouble for her also tend to be rich and powerful.
Chevreuse:
And in some very rare cases... I'm forced to protect other people from Chiori herself.
Chevreuse:
So, who got on her case this time? It's been a while since I last saw her that angry.
Paimon:
Oh, so this is what happened...
Chevreuse:
...Huh? Uther, you say?
Paimon:
You've heard of him?
Chevreuse:
He's made trouble for Chiori's several times already. He's fond of pretty much every dirty trick in the book. I heard that even the Maison Gardiennage issued him a warning due to his behavior.
Chevreuse:
...So, he's back at it, huh? His funeral, I guess.
Paimon:
Woah, what's this about a funeral all of a sudden?
Chevreuse:
I just meant that Uther's done for. Now, bring it in, you two. Get right up close...
Paimon:
...Ah, sure... But why?
Chevreuse:
Because this is probably going to turn into one of those "very rare cases" I just talked about...
You hear a scream. It turns out it was Uther, who had just been thrown from the building and out onto the street...
Uther:
Arghhhhh!
Uther:
Wh—What are you doing? Stay away from me!
Chiori steps forward, hauling him up by his collar...
Chiori:
Has anyone ever taught you... the definition of stupidity?
Uther:
Huh?
Chiori:
Stupidity... is doing the same meaningless thing over and over again.
Chiori:
It appears you've forgotten what I told you before, so allow me to refresh your memory — lay off the dirty tricks.
Uther:
...
Chiori:
Oh, and if you dare lay your hands on my friend again, you can expect a far less pleasant landing next time.
Chevreuse:
Ahem, Chiori...
Chiori:
Hmph...
Uther:
Ah, Officer! An assault's in progress! Please, Officer, you've got to do something!
Chevreuse:
Of course. I'll do my utmost to investigate the situation. Unfortunately, I was chatting with this Traveler and seem to have missed what happened...
Chevreuse:
Not to worry, though. If you'd allow me to search the scene, I'm sure I'll be able to collect some useful evidence. You don't mind, do you? There's nothing in there that would implicate you in any illegal activity, I would hope...
Uther:
I... Argh, forget it, it wasn't that big of a deal...
Chevreuse:
Ms. Chiori, I must also ask you to refrain from engaging in such disorderly conduct in the future, especially out in the open like this.
Chiori:
Ah, apologies, Officer. I guess you could say I'm just used to tossing out any trash I come across on the street.
Uther:
You...!
Chevreuse:
Is there anything else either of you have to say for yourselves?
Chiori:
That's all from me. I sincerely hope that today's events will never happen again.
Uther:
...We'll see about that.
Paimon:
Woah, that scared the heck out of Paimon! How did he just go... flying out like that?
Chiori:
You're too kind.
Chevreuse:
Now's not the time to be accepting compliments. What happened to not doing anything too out of line?
Chiori:
Not if I could help it is what I said — and I think I kept to that.
Chiori:
I started with a verbal warning, but he displayed neither shame nor remorse. If anything, he kept running his mouth with insults and threats.
Chevreuse:
Insults and threats so bad that he deserved to be tossed out like a sack of trash?
Chiori:
Believe it or not, they were that bad. He deserved to get knocked down a peg. It's the only way to get him to stop.
Chevreuse:
...You could have reported him to the Gardes.
Chiori:
Oh, I will, but it'll take some time for them to gather evidence, and he'd deny that he ever had anything to do with those bandits.
Chiori:
I don't want anything else to happen during Fontaine Fashion Week. On top of that, if Kirara's going to continue delivering goods for me, the least I can do is guarantee her safety.
Chevreuse:
...
Chiori:
Ah, that reminds me — there's another favor I'd like to ask of you today.
Chevreuse:
What a shame. I believe you've already used up your favor quota for the day.
Chiori:
Have I? Well, it's a good thing I was planning on taking an advance on tomorrow's quota then.
Chevreuse:
...Don't you think you're maxed out on advances already?
Chiori:
I always pay you back in information, don't I?
Chiori:
It's just like you said — you scratch my back, and I scratch yours.
Return to Chioriya Boutique
Chiori:
We're back.
Kirara:
You were gone for an awfully long time! P—Please tell me nothing bad happened...
Chiori:
There's nothing to worry about. All you need to know is that you'll never have to worry about someone in Fontaine messing with your deliveries again.
Kirara:
Sorry, Chiori... I didn't mean to cause you so much trouble.
Chiori:
What are you talking about? You didn't do anything wrong. Those greedy bandits are to blame... along with a certain someone who doesn't know when to lay off the petty tricks.
Chiori:
The next time you need to leave the city, call the Special Security and Surveillance Patrol. They'll escort you half of the way, and the Spina di Rosula can take the second half...
Chiori:
With that sort of escort, the next time you make a delivery, those Treasure Hoarders won't go anywhere near your goods... unless, of course, it's to offer to carry them for you.
Kirara:
Ahahaha... Good one, Chiori.
Chiori:
I'm being serious. You know me — if I bring something up, you can assume it's already a done deal. You're going back to Inazuma tomorrow, right?
Kirara:
Wait, you don't mean—
Chiori:
I've already spoken to the Captain of the Special Patrol. As discussed, the Patrol's going to take a small detour during their daily training tomorrow. As for Navia... I'll give her a heads-up in a bit.
Kirara:
There's really no need! I'm just a simple courier! I don't need to be surrounded by a bunch of armed guards... or ones with sunglasses for that matter. Don't you think this is a bit much?
Chiori:
Well, you certainly shouldn't count on such a procession for every trip you make to Fontaine. It's just a one-off thing... for my own peace of mind.
Chiori:
It'll also show those guys what'll happen to those who dare to mess with my friends.
Kirara:
Well, if you think it's a good idea, Traveler, then I guess it's fine...
Paimon:
Well, with the bad guys out of the way and your goods safely delivered, everything should be good to go for Fontaine Fashion Week, right?
Chiori:
I believe so. I'll try to churn out a few more outfits over the next few days. I've heard a lot of suppliers will be participating this year.
Paimon:
Paimon's gonna take a guess and say suppliers are super important...
Chiori:
But of course. They supply us designers with funding, equipment, factory access... You have to work with them if you want to become a truly renowned fashion house.
Chiori:
That's also why this year's Fashion Week is so important to me.
Kirara:
But isn't your brand already really famous, Chiori? Your clothes are so pretty and so nice to wear... I can't help but brag about them to my customers whenever I get the chance.
Chiori:
Even so, I would imagine there are still people who've never heard of the "Chioriya" brand, yes?
Kirara:
Weeeeelll... I mean, with the amount of places that I deliver to, it's only natural that some people from other nations haven't heard of it.
Chiori:
Then it's still not famous enough. My goal is to make the Chioriya brand renowned throughout all of Teyvat.
Paimon:
All of it!? Your business would have to get pretty huge, then!
Kirara:
Wait, would that mean I could just go to any Chioriya branch on the continent to get my clothes fixed? It has been pretty inconvenient, having to come to Fontaine every time I need to get them patched up...
Chiori:
Alternatively, of course, you could just be a bit more careful with them... They're already about as durable as I can make them.
Kirara:
Hehe... okay I'll admit, they do get snagged on branches pretty often, but I can't help it! It's hard to be careful about that sort of thing when you're trying to take a nice nap in a tree...
Paimon:
Well, if that's your dream, Chiori, then we should do our best to make it a reality! Is there anything we can do to help out with Fashion Week?
Chiori:
Hmm... I'm sure I could think of something.
Paimon:
Ooh, what is it? What is it?
Chiori:
Why don't you come to my shop tomorrow and model for me? Simply put, you'll serve as my living mannequins.
Paimon:
Oh! So we get to try on some of your clothes? Got it!
Chiori:
Seeing them off the rack will also give me the chance to make some small adjustments to the stitching and silhouette of the designs.
Paimon:
Sounds easy enough!
Chiori:
No need. We've already booked the models for that.
Chiori:
If you like them, though, feel free to visit the boutique and see if anything catches your eye. I'll even give you a special discount.
Paimon:
Hehe, sounds great! Paimon was just starting to get curious about all of this design stuff.
Chiori:
Then we have a deal. You'll model some formal wear, Nhà Lữ Hành, and... I dunno, Paimon here will show off some kids' designs. I'll see you both tomorrow then.
Paimon:
Yep, sounds goo— Wait... Kids clothes? Paimon told you already. She's not a little kid!
If the hem of a skirt is stained, can it still take the stage?
Go to Chioriya Boutique
Paimon:
Chiori! We're here!
Chiori:
Oh, you're here early. I haven't even opened the shop yet.
Paimon:
Wait, has Kirara left already?
Chiori:
Yep. With the Special Patrol, bright and early.
Paimon:
Did everything go alright on the road?
Chiori:
I believe so. The Patrol makes for quite the entourage.
Chiori:
The way they marched forward with Kirara in the center, you'd think she was some sort of VIP. For the second leg, the Spina also came with a pretty large group, led by Navia herself.
Chiori:
They took care to clear the path beforehand as well. Kirara won't so much as step on a single stray rock on her journey.
Chiori:
I even heard that Navia decided out of the blue to make a batch of macarons as a going-away gift for Kirara. An excellent souvenir to remember Fontaine by, I'd say.
Paimon:
Sounds like Navia really got into it!
Chiori:
My thoughts exactly. She even lamented the fact that she didn't have time to prepare something even fancier. I'm pretty sure she can't wait for another escort opportunity to come her way.
Paimon:
Y'know, now that you mention Navia, Paimon thinks the two of you are actually pretty similar... You say what you mean, and when you have an idea, you really hit the ground running...
Chiori:
I suppose that's why we're such good friends.
Chiori:
Navia has a certain resilience about her — it's part of who she is. No matter what comes her way, she never bows down in the face of adversity. That sort of determination and courage is something I really admire.
Chiori:
That same spirit is the true vision of my brand. When she first mentioned commissioning an outfit from my boutique... Well, I'm sure you can imagine my excitement.
Paimon:
It's like finding the perfect brand ambassador, huh?
Chiori:
Indeed. Customers pay attention not just to the clothes, but also to the figures in society who wear said clothes. People like to copy the styles of those they look up to.
Paimon:
Huh, and here Paimon thought all that mattered was for the clothes to look cute...
Chiori:
Fashion is about more than just looks, my dear — especially if you've got your sights set on a market the size of Teyvat.
Chiori:
...Hmm? Well, would you look at the time...
Paimon:
Oh yeah! Come on, let's get down to business. We're here to model!
Chiori:
Indeed. Give me a moment while I go retrieve some fabrics and sample outfits. Why don't you help me set up the shop displays in the meantime?
Paimon:
Set them up... Uh, how exactly?
Chiori:
Just carefully organize the ready-to-wear clothes with an eye toward their types and styles. This way, we can guarantee that the customers will see something different every day.
Paimon:
Whoa... There sure is a lot that goes into running a store!
Chiori:
Well then, I'll leave the displays to you.
Set up Chioriya Boutique
Chiori:
Please organize the clothes with an eye towards their types and styles. I'm counting on you.
Talk to Chiori
Chiori:
Anyway, let's move on to the real task at hand.
Chiori:
Over here, stand still. I'll take your measurements first...
At that moment, a woman suddenly arrives...
Leeann:
...Excuse me, Miss Chiori.
Chiori:
Oh, good morning, Leeann. How have you been recently?
Leeann:
Umm... Not too bad.
Chiori:
Your gown will be ready next week, so there's no need to worry about missing the ball. Or did you come here today because you'd like to make a new request, perhaps?
Leeann:
Oh... No... Nothing like that, Miss Chiori. To be honest... I came here today to cancel my order for that gown.
Chiori:
...Cancel your order?
Leeann:
Uh, but you can keep the deposit, of course! I know you can't return any materials you've already used.
Chiori:
Don't worry about the materials. I'm more concerned about you. Did something happen, Leeann? Have your plans changed?
Leeann:
Umm...
Chiori:
It's alright, I'm not trying to make things difficult for you. I'll take note of the cancellation.
Leeann:
Thank you... I'm really sorry.
Chiori:
Don't worry about it. Just let me know if there's anything I can do to help.
Leeann nods, then turns and leaves...
Paimon:
Is it just Paimon, or was she acting a bit strange just now... Wonder why she wouldn't tell us why she was cancelling her order...
Chiori:
It's not a big deal. These things happen every once in a while.
Chiori:
A family emergency, an important payday falling through, a lovers' quarrel, no one to take you to the ball... I've pretty much heard it all.
Chiori:
Judging from the look on her face, something's keeping her from revealing the truth to us. It's best not to pry.
Paimon:
Well, guess this means you'll have more time to work on Fashion Week, right?
Chiori:
That's true. Come, let's pick up where we left off...
A man also walks into the shop...
Weis:
...Is Miss Chiori in?
Chiori:
I am. How can I help you?
Weis:
Um... I'd like to return this item.
Chiori:
Oh? Could I ask why?
Weis:
It's just, um... not to my liking. You said I could get a refund if I wasn't satisfied, so... that's why I'm here.
Chiori:
Is there something about it that didn't meet your expectations? Are the sleeves too short, or is the color too dark? I can always make those adjustments for you.
Weis:
Uh, no need... You don't have to concern yourself with that. I'd just like that refund please.
Chiori:
And I'd be happy to process that for you... If you could just tell me the cause of your dissatisfaction...
Guest Outside the Shop:
Is Chiori here? I'd like to return my outfit!
Paimon:
Another one!?
Chiori:
Is there some sort of new calamity coming that I haven't heard about? Another flood? Or an apocalypse maybe? What does the prophecy say this time — you'll be spared if you get rid of all your clothes?
Chiori:
Surely, the entire population of Fontaine didn't convene and pick this one day to come and return my clothes. What is going on?
Weis:
...
Guest Outside the Shop:
What kind of rags are you trying to sell us, huh? The way I see it, this shop is nothing more than a black market front run by a bunch of dirty criminals!
Eloffe:
Please calm down, sir...
Paimon:
What is he talking about?
Weis:
Haven't you heard? Chioriya Boutique has been exposed for having close ties with criminals. It's all over the papers!
Chiori:
And just who is it that dares to throw that accusation around?
Weis:
Well, you tell us! The fabrics you've got here — they're all sourced from underground factories, aren't they?
Chiori:
...I've been transparent about my materials from the very beginning. I've already proved there's nothing wrong with them.
Chiori:
If a little hearsay and baseless slander are enough to convince you, then by all means, go ahead and hand over your garments right now — spare yourself from that flood of yours. Or have you not been convinced of that one just yet...
Weis:
You...!
Chiori:
Eloffe!
Eloffe:
Miss Chiori...
Chiori:
Go outside and help these customers with their return requests. There's no need to ask them why. We'll refund them at the purchase price.
Eloffe:
A—Alright...
Chiori:
And once you're done, put up the sign that says we're closed for the day.
Eloffe:
...Got it.
Weis:
Hmph...
Weis and Eloffe leave together...
Paimon:
Chiori...
Traveler:
These rumors...
Chiori:
They couldn't be more fabricated if you tried. No need to worry about them. I'm sure they'll go away on their own in a few days.
Chiori:
The real goal here is to divert my attention away from Fashion Week. The best response right now is to tune it out and focus on finalizing my designs.
Paimon:
If you say so... but Paimon still can't help but worry...
Chiori:
The best way to respond to public skepticism is to let your work speak for itself. There will be no doubt about the quality of my work once my new designs are released — the public just has to see it for themselves.
Eloffe:
...Miss Chiori! Bad news!
Chiori:
Oh, for the love of... Can a woman not get a moment of peace to do her work? Go on. What's the matter now?
Eloffe:
It's our accessories supplier. They just sent word that they'll no longer be able to supply us during Fashion Week!
Chiori:
What? No accessories? Not even the ones we pre-ordered?
Eloffe:
Yes, that's what their messenger said...
Chiori:
And what about the models we asked them to book for us?
Eloffe:
I think... They'll probably pull out as well...
Paimon:
Even the suppliers believe those nasty rumors!?
Chiori:
...
Chiori:
Is the messenger still here?
Eloffe:
No, they've already left.
Paimon:
So no accessories means... no brooches, no bow ties, things like that?
Chiori:
Not just that. It means no gems, ribbons, gold thread — all the elements that lend life and soul to my designs.
Paimon:
But... if you take those away... Does that mean you won't be able to make your designs at all?
Chiori:
...Eloffe, you stay and watch the shop. I'll go talk to the supplier myself.
Paimon:
Yeah! And we can vouch for you too! We'll make sure your supplier knows there's nothing wrong with your clothes!
Chiori:
Thank you. In that case, please come with me.
Go to the supplier
Chiori:
...
Wenger:
Who is it?
Chiori:
Wenger. It's Chiori.
Wenger:
...
Chiori:
We've worked together all these years — the least you could do is allow me a face-to-face conversation.
Wenger:
Haha... Straightforward as always, I see. You know, there are certain conventions people usually follow if they want to seek someone's company — sending a messenger for example.
Chiori:
And when has following convention ever gotten me anywhere? Why hire a messenger when I can just explain things in person?
Wenger:
Hmm... Have you read the papers today?
Chiori:
I don't like to waste my time on baseless lies and speculation. Maybe that's something you should consider as well...
Wenger:
You're right. I only subscribe to The Steambird, and most days, I never even read the others.
Chiori:
So these rumors... The Steambird was the one that published them?
Wenger:
No, not at all. They were in some second-rate fashion tabloids.
Chiori:
Well then, there you go! Those sort of headlines become old news faster than you can read them. Surely a bit of tabloid drama isn't worth cutting off my supply?
Wenger:
*sigh* You would think that... But this time is different...
Wenger:
Someone paid off the tabloids to publish the same article at once. They even went so far as to leave a copy in front of every house. That's how I first learned of the rumors.
Paimon:
Every house? That means... someone must have been planning this for a very long time...
Wenger:
It seems your rival has really pulled out all the stops this time, Chiori. The article was even published alongside a photo of you...
Chiori:
What sort of photo?
Wenger:
A photo of you... beating up someone on the street yesterday.
Paimon:
Yesterday!? Wait. That means...
Chiori:
Tsk... Uther again...
Wenger:
Here, I've got a copy. See for yourselves.
Wenger hands you a newspaper...
Paimon:
Behind the scenes, the true Chioriya Boutique takes shape — not a fashion house, but a house of lies...
Paimon:
Relying on its close ties to the criminal underworld, the Chioriya brand employs illegal competitive tactics to come out on top, giving hope to the evil-doers among us that wrongdoing can still prevail, provided you conceal it under the guise of fashion and beauty.
Chiori:
...
Wenger:
I don't know what happened, and I don't want to comment on things that I didn't see with my own eyes. Still, that photo shows you to be the clear aggressor.
Paimon:
Yeah! He was the one who started it, that little...
Chiori:
I appreciate you standing up for me, Paimon, but it can't be helped now...
Wenger:
That's right. The court of public opinion has already made up its mind... Still, I've got to give your rival high marks for effort. They even dug up the fact that my father once served time in the Fortress of Meropide...
Chiori:
But that was so long ago...
Wenger:
In the world of fashion, your past is like a piece of clothing stained with mud — once tainted, it can never be washed clean.
Wenger:
They claim that most of your clientele are criminals and that those who buy your clothes are just like you — people who silence all dissent with violence.
Chiori:
The absurdity... I don't even know which part to laugh at the most.
Wenger:
Well, it's no laughing matter.
Wenger:
Maybe your clientele are criminals, maybe they're not. There's even the possibility that they're just people who happened to commit crimes after buying your clothes...
Wenger:
But, with the way this article combines fact with rumor, trying to determine the truth is practically an exercise in futility. It's not something people are just going to forget about in a day or two, especially when they've found several people to back up their claims.
Chiori:
...Wenger, are you sure you won't reconsider? If we go through with the show together, we can defeat them fair and square.
Wenger:
Hahaha... If I were younger, I might have said yes.
Wenger:
But I'm no longer that brave young man with nothing to lose. I've got the family business to consider now.
Wenger:
I'd be perfectly happy to work with you again after this, but my daughter is manning the store during Fashion Week, and I don't want her implicated in all this. She doesn't deserve to be swarmed by all that negative publicity.
Chiori:
...I understand.
Wenger:
Let me offer you a piece of advice, Chiori, for old time's sake — let this Fashion Week go. There's always next year. You just need to wait for all of this to blow over.
Chiori:
You're free to wait things out, Wenger. I'll make my own choices.
Wenger:
Heh... have you ever thought maybe that attitude of yours is what's gotten you into all this trouble?
Chiori:
Have you ever thought maybe this attitude of mine is precisely what paved the way for my success?
Wenger:
Fair enough... Then I suppose all there's left to say is... Best of luck. As for the models... *sigh* None of them wanted to be implicated in all this either...
Chiori:
Understood. Take care.
Paimon:
...
Paimon:
So, um... What should we do now?
Chiori:
Without the accessories, I can no longer use my old designs.
Paimon:
Ugh, how could they do this! They're making things up! The Boutique doesn't have anything to do with violent criminals! Can't people tell this is just a bunch of lies!
Chiori:
Public opinion has never been about what's true and what's not. It's about echoing the loudest voice in the room.
Chiori:
Tch... I should have seen it from the beginning. Uther knows me too well. Everything that happened yesterday... was just a trap.
Paimon:
Well, guess all we can do is just head back for now...
Charlotte:
Nhà Lữ Hành, Paimon!
Paimon:
Charlotte!? What are you doing here?
Charlotte:
Looking for you, of course! Did you see those fashion tabloids this morning?
Paimon:
You mean that sorry excuse for an article? Ugh, just thinking about it makes Paimon's blood boil!
Charlotte:
You too, huh?
Charlotte:
Whoever wrote that article must have known The Steambird would never print something so defamatory. Unfortunately, not all the papers in Fontaine share our same sense of journalistic integrity...
Charlotte:
Miss Chiori doesn't deserve to suffer all this baseless slander! I was just about to find some people to interview so that I can write an article to refute all those claims! If there's one thing I can't stand... it's people who misrepresent and distort the facts!
Paimon:
That's great! With your help, we might be able to get some people back on our side!
Charlotte:
It's my pleasure! I've met Miss Chiori several times. I know she's not the kind of person that article makes her out to be.
Charlotte:
She was the one who made the hat and tie for my Kamera, "Monsieur Verite."
Charlotte:
Speaking of Miss Chiori, do you know where she went? Eloffe told me you all were together.
Paimon:
...Huh? She was just here... Maybe she went over there. Let's go and check.
Catch up with Chiori
Paimon:
Oh no... We've lost her.
Paimon:
Did you hear what all of those people were saying? Paimon can't believe they bought all that nonsense...
Charlotte:
Miss Chiori doesn't often appear in public or give a lot of interviews, so the general public hasn't had a chance to really get to know her.
Charlotte:
It's also true that her way of dealing with things can be a little... extreme sometimes. It's easy to use that to mislead people who don't know anything else about her.
Paimon:
Ugh, this is all Uther's fault! Paimon would pick him up and throw him across the room too, if she could!
Paimon:
Wait a second... You don't think Chiori might have gone looking for him, do you? Y'know, so she can, uh... finish what she started?
Charlotte:
That would only make the situation worse for her. I'm sure Miss Chiori knows that too.
Paimon:
You've got a point... Let's just return to the boutique and see if she's there, then.
Return to Chioriya Boutique
Paimon:
Eloffe! We're back.
Paimon:
Oh? Who's this?
Eloffe:
Ah, this is Miss Laetitia. She's also here to see Miss Chiori.
Paimon:
Oh! You're the one who came to collect the wedding dress yesterday, right? Wait, please don't say you're returning that dress, too...
Laetitia:
Oh, no, no, not at all! I'm just here to thank her! In fact, if there's anything I can do to help her out, I'd be more than willing...
Charlotte:
Ah, so you've come across that article as well.
Laetitia:
Yeah... You probably don't know this... But after I got engaged, I didn't think I'd be able to wear a Chioriya dress on my wedding day.
Paimon:
Huh. Why?
Laetitia:
My fiance owns a small business. It doesn't bring in a lot of Mora, but we get by. After he proposed, he took me to Chioriya Boutique, and we put down a custom order for a dress.
Laetitia:
He probably noticed how often I talked about Miss Chiori's clothes and how pretty they were... Being able to wear one of her dresses to my wedding has always been my dream.
Charlotte:
And then?
Laetitia:
And then... Something happened to the business, and we ran into major Mora problems. We were able to scrounge up enough to pay off our debts, but... it left us without the funds to pay for the dress.
Paimon:
But didn't Chiori say she was able to make the dress from what was left of the original deposit?
Laetitia:
Yes... When I came to cancel the order, she asked if something happened, and I told her everything...
Laetitia:
She heard me out, and then told me not to worry. She assured me that the deposit I paid would be enough for the dress, and that she'd be able to finish making it in time as well... She promised that I'd be able to wear a Chioriya dress on my wedding day.
Charlotte:
Well, that's a good thing isn't it? I've always known Miss Chiori to be a woman of her word.
Laetitia:
It is good... It's just... After I went home yesterday, I couldn't help but take out the dress and try it on. My fiance happened to walk into the room... and when he saw me, he froze on the spot.
Charlotte:
Ah... What a shame... He's not supposed to see it until the wedding day...
Laetitia:
Well, see, that wasn't actually the issue...
Laetitia:
He's seen a lot of wedding dresses in his time doing business, so as soon as he saw it, he knew for sure that it must've cost far more than what we paid.
Charlotte:
Huh? So wait, that means...
Laetitia:
Yeah... Miss Chiori covered all the costs and held nothing back. The fabric, accessories, beading, construction... It was all of the highest quality.
Charlotte:
...
Charlotte:
Miss Laetitia... I'd really like to use your story for a piece I'm writing about the boutique. Would you mind going on the record?
Laetitia:
Huh? Well, if it would help Miss Chiori out, I wouldn't mind at all...
Charlotte:
I think it'd go a long way! Your real experience is more powerful than all of those lies combined!
Paimon:
Hey, Eloffe... Has Chiori come back here since we left?
Eloffe:
Huh? I thought you all were together...
Paimon:
Well, we were... Hmm, if she didn't come back here, then do you know of any other places she could've gone?
Eloffe:
Umm...
Eloffe:
Oh, I remember now! There's this one cliff by the sea! Miss Chiori would always go there whenever she was upset.
Charlotte:
In that case, why don't we split up? I'll continue interviewing Miss Laetitia, and you two can go look for Miss Chiori.
Paimon:
Alright, sounds good! Let's go!
Look for Chiori at the designated location
Paimon:
There you are, Chiori!
Chiori:
Huh? How did you know where I... Ah, Eloffe told you, didn't she?
Paimon:
She did... We were just looking for you at your shop, and Laetitia was there! She wanted to thank you for the dress... So you see? You don't have to be sad! We'll figure out how to get through this together!
Chiori:
Ah, I'm not upset. I just wanted to get some fresh air.
Chiori:
Want to sit here with me? The view's quite stunning.
Chiori:
Don't worry, I'll catch you if you fall.
Paimon:
Alright. Don't mind if we do!
Chiori:
Well, how does it feel?
Paimon:
This place is pretty great!
Chiori:
Right? It's quiet and open, and far from the relentless critique from fashion commentators and the media. It's just you and the beautiful scenery.
Paimon:
Yeah! It's important to take yourself out of that kind of stressful environment every once in a while.
Chiori:
...
Chiori:
I didn't grow up in a very strict family. My parents would joke that I grew up to be so assertive because they spoiled me as a child.
Chiori:
I would get together with the other children to climb trees and explore caves... One time, I even climbed over the walls of the Kamisato Estate. One of the servants had to physically remove me...
Paimon:
Whoa... Paimon would have never imagined that...
Chiori:
But even as rambunctious as I was, when it came to needlework, I was as quiet and focused as could be.
Chiori:
It was as if I'd discovered a whole new world within those vibrant, dazzling fabrics... You know the feeling?
Paimon:
Err, sorta...
Chiori:
My parents noticed, and they sent me to study under a famous Inazuman tailor. It wasn't long before I had driven away pretty much every master tailor on the archipelago. You could say I really tried their patience.
Paimon:
You were that misbehaved?
Chiori:
I wasn't misbehaved, exactly. I just... often had strange ideas when it came to fashion, ones that weren't in line with traditional ways of doing things.
Chiori:
On top of that, I hated the idea of groveling and making outfits for every arrogant big shot expecting me to be at their beck and call.
Chiori:
Anyway, a few incidents later, I soon found myself without a master. Worse, not one shop was willing to hire me, not even to do grunt work.
Paimon:
No wonder you left Inazuma...
Chiori:
I was angry and frustrated, so before I left, I swore to all those "masters" that my brand would one day become renowned all over Teyvat.
Paimon:
Well, that's a great dream to strive towards!
Chiori:
After that, I came all the way to the Court of Fontaine — a city often referred to as the capital of arts and fashion.
Chiori:
I had a lot of fun starting out. Sure, I was living in a small, cramped room... but I was finally free to make whatever I wanted.
Chiori:
I had a far more naive view of "fashion" back then. As long as something was pretty, it would become popular, right? A simple concept, surely.
Chiori:
Of course, as I spent more and more time in the industry, I learned nothing was ever that simple, least of all "fashion."
Chiori:
Oh, you mean Laetitia?
Chiori:
Yeah, she did mention that dream... I'll be honest with you. That's the first time I ever heard something like that from one of my customers.
Chiori:
Who would have thought... Even as I continue to pursue my dream, my work has also become someone else's...
Chiori:
...
Chiori:
Alright, that's enough sight-seeing for one day. Time to come up with a way out of this mess.
Paimon:
Ooh! Looks like you've got your game face back!
Chiori:
Back? It was never gone to begin with. I did say I wasn't upset, didn't I?
Paimon:
Paimon thinks we should look for evidence that Uther wrote that article, and that he hired those Treasure Hoarders to attack Kirara!
Paimon:
Charlotte's already working on an article to address all those nasty rumors, so we can publish all our findings in The Steambird once we're done!
Chiori:
I don't like duking it out in the press... But if Charlotte's thrown her hat in the ring, I won't stop her, either.
Chiori:
I know where Uther's clothing factory is located. It might be a good place to start looking for some evidence.
Paimon:
Sounds good! We'll come with!
Paimon:
As for Fashion Week... Well, there's always next year, right? So there's no need to be too upset!
Chiori:
Hmm? When did this become an either-or situation? Find incriminating evidence, or participate in Fashion Week? Hah, I'm doing both.
Paimon:
Huh? But your accessories... Didn't you say your designs were unusable without them?
Chiori:
Well, it's true that I haven't quite figured out what to do about that, but...
Chiori:
To tell you the truth... Even here in Fontaine, every time I see the sea, I can't help but remember Inazuma... and the vow I made in front of those "masters"...
Chiori:
Thinking about all that, I just... can't bear to take even one step back.
Paimon:
...
Chiori:
...The sea...
Paimon:
Hmm? What did you just say, Chiori?
Chiori:
...The sea. Seashells... Coral...
Chiori:
...I've got it!
Paimon:
Huh? Got what?
Chiori:
Come! Let's take a dip, shall we?
Paimon:
Huh!? Chiori, wait, hold up!
Meet up with Chiori
Paimon:
These should be enough, right? Paimon picked all the prettiest ones in this area!
Paimon:
Chiori! Will these do?
Chiori:
Hmm... everything looks great. I've also collected a pretty big batch, so we should have enough.
Paimon:
Great! So, are we gonna head back now and make some new designs?
Chiori:
Yes, but don't forget, we've got more than just the designs to worry about when we get back.
Return to Chioriya Boutique
You return to the boutique with Chiori...
Chiori:
Okay, we've got the materials for the accessories. Next... we'll need to use what we have on hand to create some new outfits.
Paimon:
You mean we have to start from scratch? Will there be enough time?
Chiori:
I should be able to make it... if I skip out on sleep.
Paimon:
Nuh-uh, skipping out on sleep is not the answer! Wait... How come this conversation is giving Paimon major deja vu...
Chiori:
Ganyu? Who's that?
Paimon:
A friend of ours who does way too much overtime!
Paimon:
Well, anyway... Sleep is important! You're not gonna convince Paimon otherwise!
Chiori:
Haha, well I can't argue with you there. One thing's for sure, though — I'm going to do whatever it takes to make it work.
Chiori:
Hah... All this grit and determination... It reminds me of the first Fashion Week I ever participated in...
Paimon:
What else can we help with?
Chiori:
Hmm... Let me see...
Chiori:
I suppose all there's left to do is... tear up all the outfits currently on display.
Paimon:
You got it! Uh... Wait, what did you just say!?
Chiori:
You heard me. Tear them all up.
Chiori:
When I went to that first Fashion Week, I had no savings to speak of, just a few dozen yards of fabric and a dream.
Chiori:
I had to make something work, so I tore up all the clothes that I brought with me from Inazuma, and I used the scraps to make my entries for the show. I used the larger pieces for the base fabric and the smaller pieces for accessories...
Chiori:
If it worked back then, why not now? We can also repurpose some of the ready-to-use accessories in the shop as well.
Paimon:
But... You worked so hard on all these outfits...
Chiori:
I know. That's why I refuse to let it all go to waste. I'm not going to let them win, even if it takes everything I've ever made and more.
Paimon:
Um, okay... Then, here goes nothing...
Chiori:
No need to be nervous. I won't hold it against you.
Chiori:
Of course, if anyone dared to tear up one of my dresses in front of me on a normal day, I'd probably toss them into the sewer.
Talk to Chiori
Chiori:
Good job. That should do it.
Navia:
Chiori! Are you alright? Sorry for taking so long, I got caught up and... Whoa! Wh—What happened to your shop?
Navia:
Who did this!? Those monsters... Slandering you in the papers wasn't enough for them, was it? They even sent people to wreck your shop...!
Navia:
Give me their names! Since they're all too eager to tear up other people's clothes, I think it's about time the Spina di Rosula returned the favor!
Paimon:
M—Maybe you should calm down a bit first, cause you see, um...
Navia:
Huh...? HUH?
Chiori:
What is this, a soap opera? I was the one who asked Nhà Lữ Hành to tear up the outfits. We need all the fabrics and accessories we can get.
Navia:
Oh, so that's... what happened... Ahaha... Guess I got a bit ahead of myself just now. Back to what you were doing, everyone. You can all just pretend like I didn't say anything...
Paimon:
Navia sure is scary when she's angry...
Navia:
If there's one thing I can't stand, it's a false accusation. No one's gonna orchestrate some conspiracy to take down one of my friends and get away with it.
Paimon:
You and Chiori are really close!
Navia:
Of course! Everyone knows that Chiori makes the most gorgeous outfits in town. All of the Spina di Rosula's formal wear is custom-tailored here!
Chiori:
Now, if only you'd give me the contract for your uniforms as well...
Navia:
Pfft, as if you'd enjoy designing something as boring and formulaic as a uniform. That's why I didn't ask you in the first place, silly.
Navia:
Plus, with how much your intel has helped us out in the past, to the Spina, you're more of an intelligence agency than a fashion boutique.
Chiori:
If I had it my way, it would be the other way around...
Navia:
Anyway, we both know why I'm here. Tell me, how can the Spina be of service to you?
Chiori:
...If it's not too much trouble, can I borrow some skilled hands to help with some simple sewing work? I'll need all the help I can get if I'm going to finish these outfits over the next few days.
Navia:
No problem. I've got a few of those guys all ready to go! I just knew you wouldn't be intimidated into withdrawing from this year's show.
Navia:
When are you going to get started? I can help with the sewing, too.
Chiori:
Actually, there's something else I'd like to ask of you.
Navia:
Ask away. I'm all ears!
Chiori:
Oh and, Nhà Lữ Hành and Paimon — could you help me pass word to Lyney and Lynette? I'll need their help as well.
Traveler:
Gladly.
Charlotte:
I'm done with my interview! Has Miss Chiori made it back yet— Aahhhh!! What happened to the boutique!?
Charlotte:
Who did this!? Give me names! I'll make sure every last one lands a full feature on the front page of the Steambird tomorrow!
Chiori:
Not this again...
Search for Lyney and Lynette
Paimon:
Lyney, Lynette! Great, you're both here!
Lynette:
A moment later and you'd have missed us.
Lyney:
We read the article in the papers — we were just about to go find Miss Chiori.
Lyney:
She helped design a number of our costumes in the past and even sponsored one of our performances. The time has come, it seems, for us to return the favor.
Paimon:
Ooh, perfect! She was the one who sent us!
Lyney:
In that case, I assume that there's something we can do to help? Just say the word, and we'll take care of it.
Paimon:
Okay, so it's like this...
Lyney:
...Is that all we'll need to do?
Lynette:
Should be a piece of cake for the two of us.
Paimon:
Hehe, Paimon's glad to hear it!
Paimon:
Well then... Guess it's about time we go and find some evidence for all the bad stuff Uther has been doing, right?
Paimon:
Chiori said we shouldn't disturb her over the next couple of days. We can check in with her again once she's done with all the new designs.
Lyney:
But the show's in another two days, isn't it? Will she be able to make the deadline?
Paimon:
Well, according to her, she wants to first beat Uther fair and square at the show, and then defeat him in the court of public opinion. She said that it'd be like, uh...
Lyney:
A two-pronged approach?
Lynette:
Courtesy first, confrontation second?
Paimon:
Uhh... Yeah, something like that.
Lyney:
Understood. Then we'll have faith in her decision. We'll go make some preparations — see you at the venue in two days.
Paimon:
Alright! We're counting on you!
Paimon:
Okay, then let's also do as Chiori said and meet up with her at Uther's factory in two days. We'll gather the evidence then.
Paimon:
Paimon sure hopes she won't have a hard time making all of those new outfits for the show...
What should one forsake, and where should one persist? The answer that the designer gives amidst cutting and knitting is...
Wait until two days later
Traveler:
(Chiori said that she needs all the time she can get to make the clothes for the fashion show. Best not to disturb her for now...)
Go to Uther's clothing factory
Chiori:
Ah, you're here.
Paimon:
Chiori! How are the new outfits coming along? Uh, you look kinda tired.
Chiori:
Just a few steps left, now. I've handed the rest over to Eloffe. We should be able to make tonight's show.
Paimon:
Wow, that's cutting it real close... Are you sure she'll be okay without you?
Chiori:
Don't worry, I have no intention of giving ground on either front. With the fashion show scheduled for tonight, Uther has closed his factory — this is our only chance to secure any incriminating evidence.
Paimon:
Okay, Paimon totally gets that this is all his fault and he totally deserves it, but wouldn't we technically be trespassing on his property if we just barge in like this?
Chiori:
His factory is usually open to the public. It may not be open for business right now, but that doesn't mean visitors can't stop by for a tour.
Chiori:
We're just curious customers after all, aren't we?
Paimon:
Well, when you put it that way...
Chiori:
Anyway, Uther's factory is right over there. Let's hurry up and get moving.
Paimon:
Uhh... Why would he open a factory over... there?
Chiori:
We have different marketing strategies. While I specialize in high-end, custom garments, he prefers low prices and large sales volumes. I dunno... Maybe the rent here is cheap.
Paimon:
Alright... Ugh, it's really creepy. Paimon would never choose to buy anything from a place like that.
Chiori:
You make a good point. Let's all be on our guard.
Investigate the surrounding area
Paper on the Bookshelf:
(Some examples of Uther's old designs. There's nothing strange about them.)
Investigate the surrounding area
Notebook Memorandum:
(Marketing expenses: 100,000 Mora. Employment expenses: 200,000 Mora. Material expenses...)
Investigate the surrounding area
Notes on the Table:
(The courier... shall arrive at the city... in the morning, via...)
Go deeper into the factory
Paimon:
This place is filthy... Are the clothes from Uther's shop seriously made here?
Chiori:
...Look over there.
Paimon:
Ugh... That water looks super nasty. Paimon can smell the stench from all the way over here...
Chiori:
Hmph... And I was the one using unsafe materials, Uther?
Paimon:
So he was actually the one who opened an underground factory...
Chiori:
No wonder his clothes always felt weird to the touch...
Chiori:
He's been using all manner of tricks here in a bid to cut costs.
Paimon:
Should... Should the clothes made here even be worn?
Chiori:
Never mind issues with shrinking and fading... These materials can give you skin problems if you wear them too often.
Paimon:
That's terrifying... Let's take some photos right away as evidence!
Paimon:
This way, he won't be able to try and deny anything in court! Alright, let's keep going.
Investigate the warehouse
Paimon:
This place seems like some kind of warehouse. Blech... And it stinks, too.
Paimon:
Huh!? What's going on? Our way in's been blocked!
Traveler:
He wants to trap us in the factory...
Chiori:
...
Chiori:
Seems like he knew we'd be coming.
Paimon:
You did say he knew you really well, didn't you?
Chiori:
Yes. And that's because... we used to be partners.
Paimon:
B—But you're practically at each other's throats! Now you're telling us you used to work together!?
Chiori:
When I first came to Fontaine, we were both fledging designers who longed to gain a foothold in the world of fashion. We shared the same goal, so we decided to work together.
Chiori:
In the beginning, we both wanted to make clothes that would stand out from the crowd and shatter tradition — the kind of clothes that would turn heads and leave people in awe.
Chiori:
But with every criticism we received, and every sponsor that rejected us... Uther's confidence disappeared little by little.
Chiori:
Finally, right before Fashion Week, he came to the conclusion that we wouldn't be able to make the designs we always dreamed of, and we parted ways.
Chiori:
For my part, I gambled it all and devoted everything I had to that one week... I came out the other side with something that really made me proud. I was nervous to present it, of course, but I knew it was my chance to show the industry what I was made of. In the end, well...
Paimon:
You received the acclaim of all Fontaine, while Uther gave up on his dream and turned to making this sketchy stuff?
Chiori:
I don't know the exact details of what happened after that. All I know is, after I opened Chioriya Boutique, he's harassed me every year since.
Paimon:
Hmph! He's just jealous of what you've accomplished. A guy like that doesn't deserve your sympathy.
Chiori:
Well, let's focus on getting out of here first.
Chiori:
Missing the show is as good as letting him win.
Paimon:
Ah, there are some control panels over there! Let's see if any of those buttons do anything!
Leave Uther's factory
Paimon:
Finally! The entrance... at last...
Uther:
...Oh? Those chambers couldn't hold you, I see. What a surprise.
Paimon:
We've collected a bunch of evidence on all the nasty stuff happening at your factory! You're not getting away this time, Uther!
Uther:
The evidence on your person, you mean? Hah, what makes you think I have any intention of letting it get past these walls?
Chiori:
...More mechanical guards? Really? Ever thought about using these funds for a legitimate purpose?
Uther:
Oh, but this is a legitimate purpose.
Chiori:
What? Destroying Chioriya Boutique? Or continuing to make your rotten rags?
Uther:
—Proving that "fashion" is merely a laughable farce, a carnival of ignorance!
Chiori:
...You know what your problem is, Uther? You've become so obsessed with the concept of "fashion" itself, that you let it paralyze you. Stop trying to cater to it. Focus on your own work, and you get to decide what "fashion" means!
Uther:
Spare me the lecture, why don't you. Sooner or later, you'll cater to all the voices too, you know. After all, what is "fashion" but another form of public opinion?
Chiori:
Fashion is about aspiring towards a certain ideal, but it's up to you to decide what it is. My brand caters to no one but myself and my vision — that's my ideal, and it's not going to change.
Uther:
Hmph. Well, once the people witness their former darling's spectacular fall, they'll understand how laughable that ideal truly is.
Chiori:
That's what you've been trying to prove all this time? Your jaded understanding of the industry is the reason you've had it out for my brand for so long?
Chiori:
...You weren't like this before, Uther. What happened to the man who wanted to make something that would bring the entire world to its knees?
Uther:
He realized long ago how utterly naive and ridiculous that dream was!
Chiori:
...You gave up on your dream, but that wasn't enough, was it? You had to find a way to prove to yourself that it could never have been possible at all.
Chiori:
You think you understand... but you're just a bitter man who let his regrets dictate his choices. You regret giving up on your dream, so you stopped at nothing to prove to yourself that it wasn't the wrong choice.
Chiori:
This whole thing, Uther — It's pathetic.
Uther:
Pathetic? Why don't you take a look in the mirror? You're a fool daydreaming about "taking all of Teyvat by storm." Well, good luck doing that when even Fontaine doesn't have a place for you anymore!
Chiori:
...
Chiori:
...You're right. Maybe all those who pursue their dreams are fools.
Chiori:
But more pitiful still are cowards who are too afraid to even attempt what the fool is brave enough to try.
Uther:
You...!
Paimon:
Yeah, just leave this guy to us!
Chiori:
No, you go instead.
Paimon:
But... He has a gun...
Chiori:
It'll be fine. Just go to the venue and tell everyone to proceed with the plan.
Chiori:
I'll deal with him. Some lessons... are best delivered in person.
Paimon:
Catch up with us soon!
Uther:
Trying to leave, are we?
The sound of clashing metal is heard.
Chiori:
I've held back all this time because of our past partnership, Uther...
Uther:
...
Chiori:
But all that changed after our "tour" of your factory.
Uther:
Hmph... Still trying to talk tough, I see.
Chiori:
No matter what you've been through, no matter why you've become like this...
Chiori:
If I may borrow the words of a friend — a guy like you doesn't deserve my sympathy.
Uther:
...
Chiori:
Allow me to show you... the true meaning of the Chioriya brand.
movie
Fontaine Fashion Week has finally kicked off!
Navia and Kirara took to the stage from on high, drawing eyes and gasps as they descended downward on an opened umbrella, with Lyney and Lynette following behind.
As Navia introduced the "Chioriya" brand, the designer herself arrived at the venue in the nick of time.
Bathed in the light of the stage, the four of them changed into splendid outfits in the blink of an eye, as if by magic.
Chiori strode onto the stage as the audience gasped, confidently proclaiming her design philosophy to all.
Only those who refuse to surrender to setbacks on the road to achieving their dreams are worthy of the "Chioriya" brand.
Return to Chioriya Boutique
After the fashion show, everyone returns to Chioriya Boutique...
Everyone gathers at the entrance to the Chioriya Boutique just as Navia and Kirara are installing a new sign.
Navia:
...How about this?
Chiori:
A little more to the left.
Kirara:
...Like this?
Chiori:
Perfect.
Kirara:
Phew!
Charlotte:
Ooh! That looks great! Miss Chiori, can I take a picture?
Chiori:
Of course.
Kirara:
I didn't know you'd made a brand-new signboard!
Chiori:
I made it before Fashion Week. I figured it'd be best to put it up after the success of the show.
Navia:
Well, how can you become renowned through all of Teyvat without a fancy signboard of your own? The Spina's way ahead of you in that regard!
Lyney:
Now that you mention it, perhaps our magic troupe could use one of those.
Lynette:
Our signatures are the Grin-Malkin Cat and the Bogglecat Box. Oh, and we'd need to add Pers as well.
Lyney:
Pers would need an alias, of course. Hmm, how about... the "Hangry Bird"?
Navia:
Pfft... Hahaha!
Chiori:
So does that mean your signboard is going to be... two cats and a penguin stuffed into a single hat?
Kirara:
Ooh, that sounds super snuggly and warm!
Lynette:
And a bit cramped...
Charlotte:
Miss Chiori! I'm done taking pictures. You can expect the article in tomorrow's Steambird, along with the evidence Nhà Lữ Hành gathered!
Chiori:
Thank you, Charlotte.
Charlotte:
It's my pleasure! Bringing the truth to light is a journalist's duty.
Chiori:
Going forward, feel free to custom-order any accessories you need for Monsieur Verite. It's on the house.
Charlotte:
Huh!? Y—You really mean it?
Chiori:
Of course. The same goes for you too, Lyney, Lynette. If you have need of any costumes in future, just drop me a note.
Lynette:
What about something other than a costume?
Lyney:
Thank you, Chiori. It's much appreciated.
Navia:
Well, I don't really need anything! Just don't be a stranger, alright?
Kirara:
I don't need anything, either! So long as you continue to request my international courier services from Komaniya Express, we're golden!
Navia:
Actually, that reminds me... When will you be leaving, Kirara?
Kirara:
Huh!? Erm... About that...
Navia:
The Spina di Rosula has prepared a special vehicle for you, so you can just get in, and we'll push it all the way out of Fontaine!
Kirara:
What, no, that's so embarrassing!
Paimon:
Ooh, do we get something nice too, Chiori?
Chiori:
Of course. Just hold on a second...
Chevreuse:
Disrupting public order at the show, appropriating venue lighting equipment without authorization, using weaponry in public, hosting a dangerous performance without notifying the authorities...
Paimon:
Um, Chevreuse, we can explain...
Chevreuse:
...If you come across anyone who matches those descriptions, please report them to the Special Patrol at your earliest convenience.
Chiori:
Enjoyed that, didn't you? You nearly scared me half to death!
Chevreuse:
Says the one who pulled that stunt earlier. How about you do me a favor and tell me in advance next time you're planning something like that?
Chiori:
And if I had, would you have approved?
Chevreuse:
No, but it would've at least spared me a whole lot of anxiety.
Chiori:
Well, I would say I've more than made it up to you, have I not? A whole underground workshop in the Fleuve Cendre, and the man responsible all tied up and handed to you on a silver platter! Sounds pretty thoughtful, if you ask me.
Chevreuse:
...Alright, I won't argue with you. You can have this one.
Navia:
Well, friends, I would say we've earned ourselves a nice meal for our efforts! Let's go! Spina's treat!
Chevreuse:
I'll have to take a raincheck. I've still got a lot of paperwork to take care of, so you all go have fun.
Chevreuse:
By the way, Chiori, I ran into Wenger on the way here. He had a message for you.
Chiori:
I don't need to hear it — I'm sure the old fool used pretty much every apology in the book. I'll just visit him some other day and give him a hard time about everything.
Chevreuse:
Hah, you know him well.
Chiori:
Thanks again, Chevreuse.
Chevreuse:
My pleasure. Oh, and one last thing—
Chevreuse:
That was really quite an amazing show.
Chiori:
You don't say?
Navia:
Alright, alright, follow me if you want in on the celebration feast! Come on, we're leaving!
Chiori:
Nhà Lữ Hành, Paimon, could you go wait for me at that place with the view? I'll let Navia know that we'll be a little late. There's something I'd like to give you.
Paimon:
A place with a view? Ooh! Paimon knows where you mean! Sure, no problem!
Chiori:
Perfect. I'll be right there.
Go to the agreed location
Chiori:
Sorry to keep you waiting.
Paimon:
We didn't wait long at all! But what did you wanna give us that you couldn't share right in front of everyone else?
Chiori:
...Here. Take this.
Paimon:
Oh wow... a brooch! And in the style of Chioriya Boutique, too! Wait, Paimon gets one as well?
Chiori:
I've only made two for now. After much consideration, I decided to give them to you two.
Chiori:
You've been a great help. Even when things were looking bleak, you stayed by my side.
Chiori:
There were even times when I felt like I had to fight back and win, even if it was just to honor the trust that you had in me.
Paimon:
Well, we may have helped a little, but Paimon would say you deserve most of the credit. This result... It was all you, Chiori!
Chiori:
I know for certain that was not the case.
Chiori:
I've chased my dream for so long that I've come to understand something...
Chiori:
Apart from conviction and persistence, the thing that matters the most is having friends who believe in you even when you don't believe in yourself.
Chiori:
A single person can only do so much. Without all your help, Chioriya Boutique could have easily fallen to ruin.
Paimon:
Well, Paimon doesn't think it would have ever gotten to that point... Not if you had anything to say about it. But, um, about the stuff you said at the show... You aren't worried it'll rub some people the wrong way?
Chiori:
Perhaps my words were a little pretentious, but they do reflect how I truly feel. I won't bow or scrape before any force in this world, much less any individual.
Chiori:
I'm confident in the quality of my work. Create something beautiful, and there will always be people who appreciate it.
Paimon:
Well, guess there's nothing to worry about, then!
Paimon:
Should we go back and join them at the victory feast?
Chiori:
Oh yes, of course. But before that, I'd like to admire the view for just a little while longer.
Chiori:
You know? Of all the nights I've spent in Fontaine, I'd say this is the loveliest by far.