Praecantator Chapter : Act II - Excursion Between Moments and Ley Lines

Paimon
After all this adventure, Paimon is exhausted. Since we are already close to Dawn Winery, why don’t we rest there a bit?

(Dawn Winery, at night. Traveler and Paimon are outside.)

Hillie
Welcome to Dawn Winery.

Paimon
Hello. We came to see Master Diluc and have some rest. It was a tough day for us, so we thought Master Diluc could allow us to stay. The city is too far for Paimon to fly all the way.

Hillie
Sorry. Master Diluc is unavailable tonight. An important guest from Snezhnaya came to visit. For the best service, we closed the whole Dawn Winery to guests.

Paimon
Wow! Whole winery? Whoever this is, must be a very important person.

Hillie
Apparently, she is a rankless recruit. However, we received a letter from a Harbinger, Sandrone, saying that we should take good care of this guest. She offered us a generous amount as a token of her gratitude. At first, Master Diluc rejected the offer and tried to send the guest back before she had arrived. However, Lady Sandrone reached to Acting Grand Master and told everything about the situation. When the Acting Grand Master was in action, Master Diluc couldn’t reject the offer. Lady Sandrone then sent the twice of the promised price with the envoy.

Paimon
All this fuss for one envoy? And why is she here?

Hillie
They didn’t inform us about the topic, but Mister Elzer should know one or two things. I was just ordered to inform people who visit Dawn Winery that we are closed.

Traveler
How long will she stay?

Hillie
It is said to be at least two weeks. However, it may change.

Paimon
Huh. That’s strange. Let’s try to ask Elzer about this guest. Um… can we-

Hillie
Well, since you are friends of Master, it shouldn’t be a problem.

(Inside the Dawn Winery.)

Elzer
Oh! Traveler and her companion. How can I help you?

Paimon
Hello Elzer. We were here to talk to Master Diluc, but Hillie said he was busy receiving a guest from Snezhnaya.

Elzer
Well, in fact it is true. Master Diluc is currently outside with our guest showing our vineyards. But don’t worry, he will come back soon.

Traveler
What is so important about this guest?

Elzer
No one knows. Master Diluc didn’t inform any of us with the details. We received a letter and now she is our VIP guest. Multiple Harbingers personally have ensured her safety and comfort from different regions.

Paimon
It’s getting more suspicious. So you say that a girl from Snezhnaya comes to Dawn Winery with the support of multiple Harbingers, just for… a trip?

Elzer
It seems like the case. Sorry for not being able to help.

Paimon
Ah, don’t worry. It seems like there is actually nothing else with that huh? But Paimon is still unsure. It would be nice if we could personally talk to that girl.

Traveler
By the way, are there any other envoys who visited Mondstadt recently?

Paimon
Oh, right! Um, to be specific, have you heard about anyone who is interested in alchemy and crafting gadgets?

Elzer
Alchemy? From Snezhnaya? No, unfortunately I haven’t. This envoy is the only one who visited Mondstadt after a long time. All other Fatui members are staying at the Grand Goth Hotel as you know.

Paimon
Wait, didn’t Fatui close there for their recruits? Then, why is she here alone!? Oh, Paimon is so sure that there is a scheme going on. We need to get the bottom of this!

Elzer
It might be true, however, even Master Diluc didn’t start an investigation on this envoy and told us to wait. Maybe it’s better if you talk to them personally. Please wait here until they return. I’ll inform Adelinde of your arrival and ask her to serve you while you wait.

(Traveler and Paimon wait while drinking tea and eating sweets.)

Elzer
Master Diluc, welcome back.

Diluc
Hello Elzer. I see we have some guests. Hello Traveler and Paimon. What brings you here? Did I keep you waiting for so long?

Paimon
Not really. Also we were so focused on Adelinde’s delicious cakes that we forgot the time.

Traveler
That’s you Paimon. But true, it was delicious.

Diluc
Haha, I’m glad you liked it. If you want, I can ask her to make more for you.

Paimon
Really? That would be great!

Traveler
Ehem!

Paimon
Oh right. We were actually here for something else.

Diluc
What is it? I’m all ears.

(Paimon explains their adventure with Cailean.)

Diluc
So that’s the case. You have a point, this envoy might be the one who helped your friend. She told me there will be a package coming from Fontaine for a friend. So it was your friend.

Paimon
Huh, so there’s nothing hidden or illegal?

Traveler
We actually wanted to know her reason to help Sucrose.

Diluc
Surely, she doesn’t seem like someone who is interested in alchemy nor has knowledge about it. Let me go get her so you can talk to her yourselves.

(Someone enters inside.)

Diluc
Speaking of devil.

???
What devil? What did I do?

Diluc
It’s just an adage, don’t take it seriously. We were just talking about you. Traveler, Paimon, this is the envoy you are looking for: Isabella.

Isabella
It’s a pleasure to meet you. I’ve heard so many stories about you. You are pretty popular in headquarters.

Paimon
Hello there. So you are the one that everyone is talking about.

Isabella
W-Why? What are they saying?

Diluc
It’s just unusual for Fatui to send someone here with great care and caution just for a trip.

Isabella
Oh! So, that’s the problem. Sorry to worry everyone. I know Fatui’s reputation is not the best and you all have reason to get suspicious.

Paimon
So can you tell us what all this fuss is about?

Isabella
Oh! I’m sorry. I’m not allowed to give much details. But it is about Master Diluc. Um…

Paimon
Is he in danger? Why is Fatui targeting him this time?

Diluc
Oh, it’s not like that. Do not worry, I’m capable of dealing with a slim girl.

Isabella
Excuse me?

Paimon
We found so many secrets in the last few days. So what’s yours? Spill the tea! Paimon is curious. Master Diluc’s secret is our secret. Like Dark Knight-

Traveler

Ehem!

Isabella

The Dark Knight Hero of Mondstadt? Yeah I know him, and of course I know he is Master Diluc. Although, that sounds like a child’s action book character.

Diluc
Hmh…

Isabella
Well then, let me start from the beginning: I personally work under Master Sandrone. Her interests are on… machines, actually. Surely you know the Ruin Guard research facility in Liyue -the one you destroyed with my superior.

(Paimon and Traveler are ashamed.)

Isabella
Well, although its previous owner was Il Dottore, now it belongs to my master. However, it is not about her. Before I got here, another Harbinger asked for help from Lady Sandrone. It was related to a delusion Fatui received a few years ago. They asked me to learn more about this delusion’s trade records. Unfortunately, the only clue we had was that the delusion was brought back to Il Dottore after the Black Fire Incident in Mondstadt.

Paimon
What is that Black Fire Incident?

Diluc
It’s nothing important. Just another scheme of Fatui, that’s all.

Isabella
After reading the records about the incident, it turned out the previous user was Master Diluc himself. And before that, it was his father, Crepus Ragnvindr.

Diluc
How did you know that it was me? Knights arrested me as an unnamed culprit.

Isabella
Well, it wasn’t that hard to connect the dots. Long red hair and pyro power… And the Dark Knight Hero was born afterwards…

Diluc
Ugh…

Isabella
Anyway, I’ve got here without a problem. But my latest orders were asking me to question everyone who’s related to Crepus Ragnvindr without getting noticed. Unfortunately, I’m terrible at lying or hiding secrets. So I directly asked Master Diluc about it -which was also fruitless. No one knows where he got his delusion. Was it a legal trade or… mmh not? I came here to search for that.

Paimon
So you say, everything they did to bring you here was for a delusion that Master Diluc’s father used to have? Huh, Paimon was waiting for a more evil plan.

Diluc
Well, they had a reason. When I first heard about a Fatui envoy coming to Dawn Winery directly without stating a reason, I felt uncomfortable and rejected them. But it seems like my father’s delusion was a very concerning topic for them.

Isabella
That’s because we never saw something like that before. Yes, there are so many people who use delusions. But they are only cheap copies that don't work for so long. They said after using it a while, they get deactivated. Also, if I’m not mistaken, when your father got his delusion, there wasn't a delusion factory that sold delusions outside of Snezhnaya nor to non-Fatuus people. If your father, and you, was able to use it for so long, that means it was a special one. The one that is given by Tsaritsa herself.

Paimon
Sucrose told us that an envoy from Snezhnaya gave her financial support and drafts. This way she invented a gadget that uses elemental energy without a vision -just like delusions. That means Isabella already knew how to make a delusion.

Isabella
Not really. I didn’t read them myself. I know how delusions work, but never tried to make my own nor saw a schema of it. I don’t even use one. We got to talk with that young lady at Good Hunter. She was lost in thoughts, so I approached her just to ask her problem. After she told me everything, I decided to write everything to a friend. She is the one who sent all these drafts and specific materials from our laboratory in Fontaine. I was just trying to help.

Paimon
Well, because of you, she might have hurt herself with that device. She said it exploded several times.

Isabella
What!? Is she ok? I’m so sorry.

Diluc
Explosions happen when you create something new. This way you learn if your method is right or wrong. Although I don’t like Fatui, to condemn someone without evidence is not right. Also, what could she get from hurting Sucrose anyway? She’s an alchemist, and explosions are very common in this area. Your accusation is meaningless Paimon.

Paimon
Well, you have a point though… But, we were still worried about her.

Traveler
Why did you decide to help her?

Isabella
That’s because she asked for it. I know many researchers and inventors. If there is a problem she’s trying to answer, then definitely there might be someone who also asked this question before. In return, well… there is nothing I need. So, about your questions: No, I didn’t come here to harm anyone. Yes, I helped Sucrose out of sincerity and I will leave soon. Right after finding the seller of Crepus Ragnvindr’s delusion.

Diluc
I sincerely apologize, there’s nothing I can provide you. But as far as I know, my late father didn’t leave the city for too long. So I assume that he got the delusion inside the city. Although he got a reputation, whenever he would make a trade in a foreign land, Knights would check his belongings. That means they would notice something extraordinary and keep a record.

Isabella
Actually, he might have kept the delusion here, in Dawn Winery. This way he could keep it hidden from the Knights or anyone else.

Paimon
Hm… Both seem reasonable. But wait. Why is Master Diluc helping her!?

Diluc
Unlike any other Fatuus, I trust her sincerity. She could play a scheme behind me, but instead, she came to me and asked me directly. I think that’s a respectful action. Also, she doesn’t have that bad intelligence.

Isabella
I’ll take that as a compliment.

Paimon
So… you trust her?

Diluc
I’m still keeping an eye on her, just in case. Yet, if it’s only that delusion they are concerned, giving as much information as possible will send her back sooner.

Traveler
So we just need to find out about this person?

Isabella
Yep, then I’ll leave. I spent enough of my time here already, but I can’t return empty handed either.

Traveler
I know someone that can help us.

Paimon
Really? Oh wait! Are we thinking about the same person?

Isabella
So what’s on your mind?

Paimon
We have to find a friend first.

(Mondstadt, Knights of Favonious Headquarter, second floor.)

(Lisa and Cailean sitting on a table, drinking tea on the balcony. Jean is inside, reading a book next to shelves. Klee is on the table, drawing pictures.)

Paimon
Hello everyone, please excuse us.

Jean
Oh Traveler, Paimon. What a pleasant surprise. And Master Diluc with… um… excuse me, may I have the honor to know your name?

Isabella
Hello Master Jean. I’m Isabella, the envoy of… Fatui. We only know each other through letters.

Jean
Ah, yes. My apologies, I totally forgot. I didn’t have the chance to welcome you properly. Hope your trip is going well.

Isabella
Everything is great, thank you for your concern.

Lisa
Hi cutie. What are you doing here? Why not bring your new friend here and introduce us?

Klee
Honorary Knight, Paimon! And the weird grown up!

Paimon
Hi Klee!

Cailean
Well, I didn’t expect to see you again so soon. What brought you here today?

Traveler
Hello Cailean. How do you feel now?

Cailean
Much better. Very revengeful, but not in front of the kid for sure. Hehe.

Lisa
Come on now. I made all these sweets just to talk about sweet things. Why do you have to be so moody?

Cailean
I’m sorry Lisa. They are delicious. Surely little Klee is their biggest fan.

Klee
Yes! They are so yummy! Thank you Miss Librarian.

Lisa
I’m glad you like it.

Cailean
So, once more, am I the one who you were looking for?

Paimon
Actually we were looking for Mona, but it seems like she’s out of the city. So our next stop was you.

(Diluc explains everything.)

Jean
I understand. Although I am concerned about this citation, if everyone is agreeing on this plan, please be assured that I will support you within my power.

Isabella
Thank you Master Jean. I wouldn’t want to bother anyone any further, so if Mister Cailean can help us, it’d be wonderful.

Cailean
That’s so nice, but I’m not reading ley lines again anymore. You need to find someone else.

Paimon
But, how are we gonna know if she’s telling the truth? What if she’s actually trying to harm Sucrose and Albedo?

(Isabella nods.)

Isabella
Waitaminute. What did you say?

Paimon
Ugh… Paimon actually wanted to know about your past too. This way we could know if you are telling the truth or not.

Isabella
Oh you little-

Cailean
Well that’s your problem. Trusting someone is a choice. You may believe in a liar’s words, or not believe an honest person. In the end, it will affect your relationship with that person.

Klee
Why don’t you trust her? Did she do something bad?

Paimon
Actually she didn’t… yet. That’s why we want to know the truth.

Jean
I understand your concern, however, I also don’t approve of this. Miss Isabella is an envoy. Our diplomatic relations might not be the best with Snezhnaya, but I cannot allow you to interfere with her personal life without permission. To offer her help is a very kind gesture, however, if you try to abuse it Paimon, I have to stop you.

Isabella
Oh no no Master Jean, please relax. If she needs proof before, then sure, may it be. I’m totally ok with that.

Lisa
Such a positive person. I don’t think she’s a bad person. Although Fatui did bad things in the past, our diplomatic relations are still conserved in a way. So why would they send someone suspicious here and lose a possible ally, hm?

Jean
I agree. Also, I personally made a background check -if you don’t get offended.

Isabella
Not at all.

Jean
And she’s clear. Just one thing got my attention: She’s working under so many Harbingers, which is not quite common and that bothers me a bit.

Isabella
Everyone says that. Unfortunately, I can’t tell the reason. This one is personal and not related to you.

Jean
Of course. We have no intention to interrogate you -I mean, at least me.

Paimon
So what are we supposed to do? If Cailean is not helping us to check on the ley lines, we can’t learn anything for anyone.

Cailean
I gave you a device right? Why don’t you go check yourselves?

Traveler
Where are we supposed to start from?

Cailean
Sigh. Do I have to tell you everything?

Lisa
Come on now. Why don’t you put your cussedness aside and go help them? Oh! You can show a few tricks to Isabella too and she can check what she is looking for herself. This way, she can leave sooner and everyone can relax.

Isabella
Fine by me. I want to return soon. I don’t feel wanted here anyway.

(Paimon looks the other way.)

Cailean
I shall remind you that I don’t have a vision anymore.

Lisa
So is the Traveler and Paimon. But they have that device you mentioned. Come now, you’re just making some excuses.

Cailean
Why do they want to learn about that girl’s past anyway? It’s so rude. Can’t you let her spend her vacation in peace?

Jean
Master Diluc?

Diluc
Don’t look at me. I’m simply following her around, and she’s following these two.

Isabella
I actually don’t mind. I also need help from you, if you agree with that.

Lisa
See?

Cailean
Sigh. Fine. What do you want me to do exactly?

Klee
Are you going on an adventure? May I join too?

Jean
Klee, I know you’re excited, but don’t forget that you’re still under surveillance.

Klee
Aw…

Paimon
What did she do this time?

Jean
Actually nothing, yet. She was planning to go outside the city with a puffy bag which was way too big for her. When I asked her what’s inside, she tried to hide it. From her reactions you may guess what she was planning.

Klee
At least I didn’t have to go to the confinement room this time, hehehe.

Jean
When I looked for Captain Kaeya, I found out that he was put to sleep in a Dodoko outfit. How did you manage to trick him?

Klee
Well, I found this new tea and wanted to share it with him. When he fell asleep I got bored. Then I decided to go out to play by myself.

Diluc
Pfft.

Cailean
Then I need a specific location. Are you directly coming from Snezhnaya?

Isabella
Not really. I came here after Liyue. I stayed there, worked at Northlan Bank. But before that, I’ve been staying at Fontaine for years.

Cailean
Have you ever been to other places?

Isabella
Of course, I travel a lot. I’ve been to Natlan, Sumeru, Inazuma. This is my second visit to Mondstadt. First one was years ago. Signora needed someone who understands from gadgets. At that time Grand Master Varka gave me a short tour around the city too while on it.

Cailean
Have you ever directly encountered any ley lines? Or any huge trees?

Isabella
Well, there were so many big trees. How big do you ask?

Cailean
Sigh. Nevermind, I’ll figure it out myself. Please allow me to prepare for the road while you wander around the city. Let’s meet at the city gates.

(Cailean leaves.)

Klee
May I also join in your adventure? Pleeeease.

Jean
Klee. You know you’re still grounded.

Klee
Mmm… Okay Master Jean.

Lisa
Don’t worry cutie, you may join them next time. Only if you act properly.

Diluc
Guess we also have nothing to do at the moment. Shall we walk around while waiting for him?

Paimon
Oh, that’s a great idea! Is there any place you’ve not seen yet?

Isabella
Now you’re very friendly. Is that because you’re planning something else?

Traveler
So you understood how Paimon’s mind works already?

Paimon
Hey! Don’t make it look like Paimon is the bad guy! But yeah, you were right. Paimon thought that we might go to eat something. You know, we can not start an adventure with an empty stomach.

Isabella
That’s fine by me.

Jean
I sincerely apologize on their behalf. If needed, I can inform Lady Sandrone about the situation and bear the punishment for the unpleasant situation.

Isabella
No no no! There’s no need for that. If I was actually sad, I would tell her myself. For now, just let Master Diluc keep an eye on me while Traveler and Paimon relax. There’s nothing much I can do anyway.

Jean
Again, we are so sorry. I assure you that won’t happen ever again.

Diluc
Then excuse us.

(Good Hunter.)

Sara
Welcome again! What can I provide you today?

Paimon
Sniff! It smells sooo goooood! What is that?

Sara
This is a new recipe I wanted to try. It was from a Snezhnayan merchant.

Paimon
Oh come on now! Are they here too!?

Sara
I assure you after trying this, you’ll eat your fingers. This recipe is beyond this world. I’m making five of them then. Please take a seat. Oh by the way, miss, could you be from Snezhnaya?

Isabella
Me? Well, kinda.

Sara
This was left here by the same merchant. They told me to give it to you.

Paimon
What is it?

(Sara gives Isabella a letter.)

Isabella
Let’s see…

(…)

Paimon
So, what it says?

Isabella
I… don’t know? I can’t read.

Paimon
What do you mean you can’t read?

Isabella
It’s written in the Snezhnayan alphabet. One thing you need to know about me is I’m not Snezhnayan myself, I’ve been there a few times but I never tried to learn their alphabet at all. Thus I don't know how to read it. Um… do any of you know, by any chance?

Paimon
Are you kidding!?

Diluc
Hah, a Fatui envoy who can’t even read in Snezhnayan. How ridiculous.

Isabella
Don’t laugh at me! I spent most of my life in Fontaine! What were you expecting!?

Paimon
Then shall we find someone to translate it for you? We can also have a sneak peak on it, hehe.

Isabella
Maybe after the meal… Actually, wait. This letter is given to me, why are you reading it? Master Diluc, please excuse me. I’ll go find a Fatuus to translate it to me, please start without me. And no sneak peak!

Diluc
Sure, go ahead.

(Isabella leaves.)

Paimon
Are we really gonna let her go?

Diluc
Of course not. Let’s wait a bit, then we can follow her.

(Trio starts to follow Isabella.)

(Back of Angel’s Share. Isabella talks to a Snezhnayan merchant.)

Merchant
How stupid can you be!? How come you don’t know how to read our own language? How can you call yourself a Fatuus anyway!?

Isabella
It’s not my fault no one taught me!

Merchant
Stop whining! You’re not a kid, you’re an envoy! Ah, I can’t believe all these Harbingers sent a kid for such an important matter.

Isabella
Just to inform you but I’m really good at finding information.

Merchant
Then tell me this: have you found anything about Lord Pantalone's order?

Isabella
Mm, well, I-I’m working on it-

Merchant
You didn’t even start right? Ah, you are useless! Or did you grow sympathy towards that guy? Don’t tell me you’re planning to betray us!

Isabella
No no! Of course not. It’s just… He’s very cautious around me. That’s why I’m taking slow steps.

Merchant
But you’re too slow! Ugh, just wait until our lords hear about that.

Isabella
Wait wait! Well there’s something I learned last night during our walk with Master Diluc. But I wanted to wait till I found more information about that.

Merchant
Oh really? Then tell me, what is that?

Isabella
Ehem, well… It’s about his special vineyard he makes trade with. He told me that to make the best wine, you need to find the best quality grape.

Merchant
I know that much! I've been a merchant for years! Huh. Wait… So what you say is that there’s a vineyard where he gets the best ones. Ohoho! That’s great news. Excellent! If we can make a better deal with them- No! Even better. If we can buy that vineyard, and have full control over it, Mondstadt will be in need of us for grapes. So is for wine making too. Ahahaha! Guess I was wrong about you kiddo. Find me the exact location of this vineyard. We’ll have a visit there soon. I should inform Lord Pantalone too.

(Merchant leaves.)

Isabella
Sigh! So annoying.

Paimon
Look at that back stabber! She just used Master Diluc’s hospitality for their scheme!

Diluc
Haha!

Paimon
Why are you laughing? What’s so funny?

Traveler
I think he lied to her, so she gave false information.

Diluc
No, not at all. Actually I told her about the vineyard, even the location and the owner. But she decided to not tell her comrades. Well that’s commendable.

Paimon
W-What are you talking about?

(Diluc gets close to Isabella.)

Diluc
So there you are. We thought that you got lost.

Isabella
Oh! Ehem. No, I’m fine. The letter was from my friend.

Diluc
Oh really? What does it say?

Isabella
Ah, nothing much. She was asking whether the device worked. I should give her the news later on…

Diluc
That’s good. Shall we return to Good Hunter? I’m sure the young lady is already done with our meals.

Paimon
Now you’re talking.

Isabella
Hehe… You’re right… (Oh, I almost got caught. I should burn this letter immediately.)

(They go back to Good Hunter. After the meal Isabella goes to the toilet.)

Paimon
So Master Diluc, can you explain why you didn’t say anything to her?

Traveler
Do you really trust her?

Diluc
She is a Fatuus nevertheless. But yes, I trust her more or less. During our conversation with her, yesterday I accidently gave her very important information about where I get my supplies or how we make wines. Uh… For a moment, I actually forgot that she’s a Fatuus. Her childish and curious personality got me off guard. She kept asking questions very casually. The more I answered, the more she asked. Sometimes she wouldn’t let me finish and ask another question in the middle. I didn’t think that she could spy on the wine industry even for a moment. That’s why I told everything to her.

Paimon
Look at her, how she plays with you!

Diluc
I also thought about that possibility. But after hearing her conversation with that merchant, I believe she’s sincere with her words, at least to me. That merchant won’t be a threat to us.

Paimon
So, does that mean she’s clean? Paimon still can’t believe it.

Diluc
As you can see, she’s still looking for the merchant who sold that delusion to my father. But since it doesn’t affect me anymore, I have no concern about the topic.

Traveler
I still didn’t get the vineyard part.

Cailean
Oh there you are. And I thought that you changed your mind -which would be great news for me.

Paimon
Oh, hi Cailean! Have a seat.

Cailean
No need. Are we going to wait for our guest or leave without her?

Paimon
Actually Paimon wants her to come along too. Paimon wants to see her face when she’s busted! If she ever did something wrong.

Cailean
Very well then.

Isabella
I’m back. Oh, hi.

Cailean
Hi little miss suspicious. If you’re all ready, let’s head off. I found a very fresh ley line just came to the surface, very close to Liyue. Probably somewhere close to where you took the path to come to Mondstadt.

Isabella
Oh? Where is it?

Cailean
I’ll show you on the map. Also, here are the devices. Traveler, you can get one since you don’t carry a vision.

Traveler
Thank you.

Isabella
Will that ley line show the merchant I’m looking for?

Cailean
We’ll see. First, we have to go and try, right?

(They head off. In front of a domain.)

Cailean
Here we are. We can find all of your dirty secrets.

Isabella
Please don’t do that.

Cailean
Just joking, don’t take everything so seriously.

Paimon
Shall we in?

(Inside the domain.)

Isabella
I’ve never been in a place like this before.

Cailean
Haven’t you got into a domain? Your life must be very boring.

Paimon
We always go to domains. When you beat the monsters inside, you can get some shiny and expensive things as well as mora!

Isabella
Well, since I’m working for Harbingers, I don’t have any financial problems. No need to deal with so much problem for a few shinies.

Paimon
Ugh! Let Paimon have fun! You don’t have to tell us that you’re rich.

Isabella
Haha… I’m not rich but others always pay for my needs.

(Cailean finds a crack.)

Cailean
This must work. Traveler, why don’t you try it?

(Traveler uses the gadget and finds a memory that should include Isabella.)

(Inside the Northland Bank, Ekaterina is talking to someone who can’t be seen.)

Ekaterina

Those are orders from the young lord. He wants you to be safe during your trip. You should not talk to strangers outside the cities. If you encounter any treasure hoarders, leave everything behind and hide. Someone will come to help you. Also he wanted me to tell you things contains alcohol -since you don’t like to drink, he thinks that you’re intolerant and he doesn’t want you to get drunk and get into trouble

???
…

Ekaterina
Those are the orders I got. There’s more actually. Since you will stay with a stranger, you must-

(Memory disappears and monsters attack once again.)

Paimon
Do we need to deal with monsters all the time? Also who was she talking to? Paimon didn’t see anyone there. Could it be, the branch is broken?

Isabella
Wow! I never see such a thing. How amazing. How did you do that?

Cailean
It’s pretty simple. I just control the elemental energy inside the leyline to see past memories.

Isabella
So that’s how you find it.

Diluc
After that, will you look for the merchant?

Cailean
Hm… Maybe I can help. But before that, why didn’t we see the second person? I was so sure that you were there.

Isabella
I was there with Ekaterina, she was nagging so much and I was whining because she didn’t let me be. Why didn’t it appear there?

Cailean
Interesting… I have a few theories. However, it is quite complicated. Traveler, maybe we should give a break for today and find another way to fulfill your curiosity.

Paimon
Can’t it be that the branch was just weak and couldn’t record that day?

Cailean
… It also can be the case. Do you want to check one more memory?

Isabella
I have nothing to hide -kinda. Just be careful not to look at more personal memories, if possible…

(Traveler finds another crack.)

(Pantalone sitting in front of someone. On his desk, there’s a metal mask. It has a huge plate muzzle and very sad looking eyes.)

Pantalone
Sandrone told me how amazing you are. She talked highly about you. Every task you get would be successful, is that right?

???
…

Pantalone
Dottore was also amazed by your work and asked a favor from you. Since Sandrone accepted the case, you will follow his orders, right?

???
…

Pantalone
Then does that mean, if I want something from you, will you do as I say too?

(Pantalone takes the mask on his hand.)

???
…

Pantalone
How wonderful. Now I get why she praises you so much. As you see, I’m merely a businessman whose wish is to expand my trades. However, there's one market that I could never be successful in. As you see, people in Snezhnaya have a high tolerance to alcohol and although it’s strong to fulfill our need for alcohol, it doesn’t taste as good as Mondstadt’s delicious wines. I’d like to know how they can make it so good and strong enough. Perhaps, can you find it out?

???
…

Pantalone
Ohoho! You don’t actually need to taste it. I just need the core ingredient they use. I’m sure you can find it. If you can do this to me, my dream will finally come true.

???
…

Pantalone
Oh? Want to know what my dream is? And I thought I clearly stated it. It’s to control the whole wine industry in whole Teyvat. Starting with Mondstadt. Northland Bank is the mora pumping heart of Teyvat. There is not a single thing we can’t handle, even Lady Ningguang’s money is under our control if we play our cards right. Do you understand that much? However, as the wine capital, Mondtsadt has no rival in the industry, and that makes us dependent on itself. We should be more independent, step on our own two feet without any internal forces… And how great it would be if we could control others, isn’t that right? All I want is for you to find how to control them. Find me the most crucial points. You can do that much, right?

(Pantalone takes out a key from his jacket. Someone hit the table.)

Pantalone
Oh don’t be afraid. If you act properly, you won’t have to wear this again…

(New monsters appear. After the fight, Traveler drops the gadget and Isabella takes it without anyone noticing.)

Paimon
So that was your plan! You were planning a scheme behind Master Diluc! We saw her talking to that merchant today too!

Isabella
You what?

Paimon

You told him about Master Diluc’s vineyard. You were actually going to give the spot, right?

Diluc
Even if she did, that would be pointless. Because that vineyard also belongs to me.

Paimon
Wait, what?

Isabella
That’s why I didn’t even bother to explain to him. They want to control the vineyards of Mondstadt so they can control the wine industry. But if the vineyard belongs to the wine king, then how can they control him? Wherever you look from, Master Diluc is the one who controls them at the end. They can just buy the vineyards, but Master Diluc is not that stupid to agree on a short-time profited deal.

Diluc
That’s also something I told her yesterday.

Paimon
Really? So, if you won’t betray Master Diluc, that means you betray Fatui. Doesn’t that mean you’ll get into trouble?

Isabella
Maybe, but I don’t want anyone to get hurt because of someone’s selfish act. Even if that means getting punished.

Paimon
So, you came here to protect Master Diluc.

Isabella
Of course not. I was actually planning to get some information indeed -at the end, it’s my duty. However, I never approved that. After meeting Master Diluc, I knew that I was right to not agree with Pantalone. In the end, it’s that merchant’s fault not letting me finish my words and go away. I’ll get away with this one too, hehe. Still, I have another job to deal with. If dear Traveler is done with me, I should continue that.

Traveler
I was wrong about you, sorry.

Isabella
Eh, no worries. Then, please excuse me. Master Diluc, I’ll be late tonight. Please don’t wait for me.

Diluc
Understood. If you need an escort, I can attend someone.

Isabella
No need. I can take care of myself. See ya.

(Isabella leaves.)

Cailean
So. What have we learned today?

Traveler
We shouldn’t prejudge others according to their background.

Cailean
Indeed. You might distrust others, but that shouldn’t be a reason to take your guard and attack them. In the end, trusting someone is your choice.

Diluc
If we are all done, why don’t we go back to the Winery and drink some juice? You must be thirsty after all that adventure.

Paimon
Paimon wouldn’t agree with you more than that.

Cailean
I should pass. I promised Lisa to visit Noelle with her.

Diluc
Fair enough.

Paimon
Please send our regardings as well.

(…)

Traveler

There’s one more thing I want to ask.

Cailean
What is it?

Traveler
Why couldn't we see her in those memories?

Cailean
Um… You needn’t worry. Maybe the leyline around that area was weak, don’t occupy your beautiful heads with insignificant details.

Paimon
Okay then. See you later Cailean.

(Cailean is left behind, checking the branches.)

Cailean
She looks different -not an elf for sure… Huh! Nevermind, it’s not my concern. Or…

(Few days later. In front of city gates.)

Paimon
Hey look! It’s Isabella. Seems like she’s departing. Let’s go see her off. Isabella~ Are you going now?

Isabella
Traveler, Paimon. It’s good to see you two once more. Yes, I’m waiting for the chart to take me back to Liyue. I gave my farewells to Master Diluc and Acting Grand Master. I also want to thank you both for showing me some unique places. Let’s go to another domain together some time.

Paimon
Sure but Paimon thought you would be mad at us for blindly accusing you.

Isabella
Well, I was. But hey, I would do the same thing if the situation was the opposite. I calmed down after having a rest. Truce.

Traveler
You are always welcomed here.

Paimon
Yeah! And if we ever meet up again, we’ll show you proper hospitality next time.

Isabella
You’d better do. Uh, my chart is here.

Paimon
Wait! Is that-

Tartaglia
Hi Comrade. I didn’t expect you to see you here. Seems like you guys met already, how nice. Two of my best friends are getting along.

Paimon
Best friends? Wait, what does it mean?

Traveler
Why are you here?

Tartaglia
To bring Isabella back of course. I’d like to stay and chat more but we need to hurry. Come on, let’s head off. Quick.

Isabella
Okay. See you later then.

(Two of them leave the city on chart.)

Paimon
What was that!?

Traveler
Didn’t we also see Ekaterina mentioning him in the memory?

Paimon
True. But why is he here? Ooooh something’s fishy, Paimon can tell it! They can’t simply be friends! Paimon wants to ask Cailean for further information! Ugh… Paimon is nervous.

Traveler
Are you forgetting what we learned from yesterday?

Paimon
But… You know whenever we see Childe, there is a problem.

Traveler
You are right. Okay, let’s go.

Paimon
Thanks for understanding.

(The Knight of Favonius Library.)

Cailean
Yes, I checked on her background a bit more after you left the domain. There’s nothing to mention but she is responsible for the lost gadget to check on the Delusion of Master Diluc’s father. I personally helped her to check the branches myself.

Paimon
When did you guys meet again? Also, when did a gadget go missing? Paimon feels like we are left out of a huge plot.

Traveler
Are you ok giving such a device to her?

Cailean
Well, since she helped Sucrose to invent it, she has the right to take one. I actually don’t mind it at all. What matters is that she didn’t backstab Diluc as she promised. She’s only behind that delusion, which doesn’t interest us at all. So she deserved that in a way.

Paimon
Paimon agrees that she’s a nice person. Although she might be a bit tricky…

Traveler
There’s still one more thing that bothers me.

Paimon
What is it?

Traveler
Pantalone sponsored her to spy on Diluc, and Dottore sponsored her to find the delusion’s seller.

Paimon
Yes, and Sandrone is her master so she would sponsor her anyway.

Traveler
But what about Tartaglia?

Cailean
You mean the ginger who took her?

Paimon
Yes. He always causes trouble. But why was he so kind and caring towards her? He was also the one who cautioned Ekaterina about Isabella’s trip, right? If he didn’t ask something from her, why would he be so protective!?

Traveler
(That shouldn’t be the case. There must be another reason. Knowing Childe’s personality, he’s not capable of plotting a hidden scheme.)

Paimon
Well, we need to wait and see what’s going on. Hopefully there’s nothing dangerous. Paimon can’t help but feel uneasy after seeing Tartaglia.

(A few days ago.)

(Cailean and Isabella are in front of the same domain with Tartaglia.)

Tartaglia
You have my sincere gratitude. Thank you for taking care of her. I was so worried that she might get into trouble.

Cailean
It was nothing. Also, she is very strong. Not only herself but she also protected us. I don’t see any reason to be worried.

Isabella
Also thank you for showing me the memories. Now I know where to find that guy.

Cailean
…

Isabella
Is there something bothering you?

Cailean
Fatui is the one who brought my mother here and caused her death by Heavenly Principles. They were in sleep for centuries but came back for a mere witch. What did you guys ask from her?

Tartaglia
Personally, I asked for nothing. I don’t have any interest in old people’s works.

Isabella
Hopefully you are not blaming us for her death, right?

Cailean
Based on what I saw in those memories, she agreed to work with Fatui centuries ago. And I think that agent mentioned Tsaritsa’s great plan…

Tartaglia
Collecting Gnosises is quite a new plan since I’m also charged with collecting the Geo Gnosis.

Isabella
I also don’t have any clue about the plan you mentioned since my master is also one of the young Harbingers -compared to Signora and Pierro. But we can ask for the details if you want.

Tartaglia
Are you interested in working with us by any chance? We’d love to see a new strong ally. Maybe you can find someone who knows your mother.

Cailean
In your dreams. Anyway, I’m heading off then. Stay safe. Oh and, you’d better tell me everything you have, or else…