Liberum Ventus Chapter: Act I – A Joyful Celebration

Paimon
It’s been a while, but Paimon can’t stop thinking about that domain we went to with Cailean. Poor thing went through a lot. When we last talked to Timaeus, he said that he wasn’t in his best mood. Shall we give him a visit?

(Favonius Library)

Paimon
Hi Cailean.

Cailean
Hm, what? Oh, it’s you two again. What do I owe your visit to?

Paimon
We just wanted to check on you.

Traveler
You don’t seem happy. What’s wrong?

Cailean
Oh don’t worry. It’s just, a few things are occupying my mind.

Paimon
Hm? What are they? Do you want to talk?

Cailean
Ah…

Traveler
You can talk to us.

Cailean
Traveler, may I ask you a favor? Can you deliver this letter to Isabella and ask her to reply to me as soon as possible?

Paimon
Huh? What is this?

Cailean
A letter of course.

Paimon
Paimon can see that, but what’s written on it?

Cailean
I have to clarify some unsolved mysteries about my mother. I don’t want to personally go and ask the Harbingers those questions, so I want Isabella to help me. If you give my letter, she can see that it is urgent.

Paimon
Consider it done!

Cailean
Thank you. I’m so close yet too far from the truth. And the most bothersome part is I can’t find any clues from leylines anymore. It’s all up to you. I need to find that agent’s remnants.

Traveler
Leave it to me.

Cailean
You have my gratitudes. Please try not to get caught by any other Fatui member. This time, it should be kept as a secret. I trust you.

(Outside the library.)

Paimon
After leaving with Tartaglia, Isabella should have gone to Liyue. Let’s go find her!

(Liyue Harbor entrance.)

Paimon
Here we are again! Last time we visited here, we had lots of adventures. But this time, let’s have a more chill visit. Short and straight to the point.

(Traveler nods.)

Paimon
Hmmm. Maybe we should start from the Northlan Bank. That's where Isabella is currently working, right? So we might find her there.

(Inside the Northlan Bank.)

Ekaterina
Oh, welcome the great hero of Liyue. It’s an honor to see you here.

Paimon
What’s with the tone on your voice? You sound like we did something terrible to you.

Ekaterina
I should have noticed it was you again when Isabella went to Mondstadt. Can’t you stay away from others’ jobs and leave us alone. Once again, because of you, the Northlan Bank is in big trouble. That little rat...

Paimon
Little rat? You mean, Isabella?

Ekaterina
Yes! Whenever she’s in our plans, everything goes downhills. And no one scolds her. Ugh! Where is justice here?

Paimon
Well, sorry for stopping your evil plans to destroy the peace.

Ekaterina
Why did you come again?

Traveler
We were looking for Isabella.

Ekaterina
Uh huh! So you were working together! I knew it. Wait until Lord Harbinger hears about that. Then, even Lady Ningguang won’t be able to save you.

Tartaglia
What is going on here?

(Tartaglia and Isabella come down from the stairs.)

Isabella
Oh, hi there! It’s nice to see you two again.

Paimon
Hello Isabella. We were looking for you, but she started to threaten us right after we stepped inside.

Tartaglia
Is that true?

Ekaterina
N-No Young Master. However-

Tartaglia
Guess there’s no problem. Surely she must be upset about what she said.

Ekaterina
…

Tartaglia
Anyway, so you were looking for Isabella?

Isabella
What’s the matter? How can I help you?

Paimon
Well, it’s something a little private.

Isabella
Sure. Do you wanna go outside?

Traveler
If possible.

Tartaglia
Guess I should stay here, since it’s between you guys.

Paimon
Actually maybe you can join us too, since it kinda involves you too.

Tartaglia
Is that so? Well then, let’s go.

(Outside the Northlan Bank.)

Tartaglia
So, what’s the matter?

Paimon
There are so many things that happened during her journey, so let’s explain things quickly.

(Paimon tells about their journey.)

Tartaglia
Yes, she told me everything.

Paimon
Cailean also wanted us to give you this letter.

Isabella
Let me see… Hm…

Paimon
He also doesn’t want anyone else to know about this letter. Hey! Don’t look at it!

Tartaglia
Haha! Sorry. Since you are discussing right next to me, I got curious. So, which point of this involves me?

Paimon
Being with her is already suspicious!

Traveler
You two are pretty close, and we wanted to know the reason.

Paimon
Yeah! When she came to Mondstadt, she was supported by multiple Harbingers. Sandrone is her master, so it’s normal for Isabella to follow her orders. Dottore and Pantalone asked for missions related to Mondstadt. Although it had bad intentions, it was still reasonable for her to follow them. But why are you so close to her, preparing her trip on her behalf? What do you plan this time?

Tartaglia
Oooh! So that’s the case! Does that mean are you guys jealous that I’m being friendly with her?

Paimon
No, that’s not the point!

Traveler
We are suspecting that you might also be planning to attack someone…

Tartaglia
Well, nothing in particular. We are both getting ready for a wedding we were invited to, if you call this a plan.

Paimon
Huh? A wedding? Who’s wedding is that?

Isabella
It’s one of my friends’. The Tianxuan of Liyue Qixing, Mian Feng. He’s the General of Millelith and responsible for the military, penal code, public order and security. He was engaged to a woman from the Hu family, and he invited us to the ceremony too.

Paimon
Hu family? Isn’t that Hu Tao’s family?

Isabella
So you know her? That girl is Tao’s first cousin Hu Guan Yin.

Paimon
So it’s a relative of Hu Tao!

Isabella
Well, not only her but I’ll assume you also know Yun Jin then.

Paimon
Yeah, we are good friends with her. But, how is it related to her?

Isabella
Well that’s because Mian Feng is little Jin’s uncle.

Paimon
What!? Woah! So that means Yun Jin and Hu Tao will be relatives?

Tartaglia
That also bonds two important families of Liyue to each other. As you know, Director Hu’s family helped to clean up the plague and carried an important role during the Archon War. And Miss Yun’s family is the best blacksmiths of Liyue. Imagine how powerful these two blood’s mixed sprouts are.

Isabella
But most importantly, we wish these two all the happiness. Lady Ningguang and Lady Keqing are helping with the preparations, and the ceremony will be held next week. Normally anyone from Fatui were not invited and not allowed to get close to the wedding area for, you-know-why reasons. But since I have good relations with Qixing, they personally invited me and allowed me to bring one more guest. That’s how he can join the ceremony. Otherwise, he wouldn’t have a chance to get that close to Qixing.

Paimon

Well, you are just lucky to have Isabella by your side. But that still doesn’t answer Paimon’s first question.

Isabella
Well, what do you think we are?

Paimon
It is sure that you work for him. But you seem a bit closer than that.

Tartaglia
Haha! Ask her to do something for me and she’ll just throw the first thing she grabs to me. There’s no way I can make her do something. But as you said, we are closer than that.

Isabella
The thing is, I don’t work for anyone. I take orders only from Master Sandrone, no one else. Including the guy over here, I don’t listen to other Harbingers because I’m obligated -it’s more like a favor. And how close are we? You can say pretty close to bring him to a wedding with me.

Paimon
Well, that wasn’t very illuminating but thanks anyway.

Isabella
Ah yes, by the way. Since you two know both Tao and little Jin, why don’t you join them in this joyful moment? I’m not sure if I can bring more guests but we can go to them and get an invitation special to you.

Traveler
Is it really okay to invite us like this?

Isabella
What are you talking about? Of course they’d love to see you there. It’s time to celebrate! Why would it be a problem?

Paimon
Oooh! That would be soooo nice. Imagine all the food they will serve in the ceremony. Come on, let’s go visit Hu Tao and Yun Jin and give our best wishes as well as get our invitations.

(In front of Wangsheng Funeral Parlor.)

Isabella
Greetings.

Ferrylady
…

Paimon
Um, hello?

Ferrylady
Oh, were you talking to me?

Paimon
Yeah, we were here to see Hu Tao. Do you know where she is?

Ferrylady
Yes, Director Hu went to help with the preparations of the incoming ceremony. Now she must be searching for wedding dresses with the bride. Unfortunately, I don’t know when she will be back.

Paimon
Oh, so we can’t find her anytime soon. Well then, thanks anyway.

Zhongli
Oh, what a pleasant surprise. Welcome old friends. May I ask your reason to visit the Funeral Parlor? Hopefully no one’s hurt and everyone is safe and sound.

Paimon
Hi Zhongli! We were looking for Hu Tao, but it seems like she’s out shopping.

Zhongli
Indeed. A joyous occasion is coming that will tie two families together. Director was more energetic than usual, and her happiness is multiplying as the day comes closer.

Isabella
She looks pretty happy indeed.

Zhongli
And may I ask why you were looking for the Director exactly?

(They explain things to Zhongli.)

Zhongli
Ah, so that’s your intent. No need to rush for it. I also have received an invitation directly from Director Hu and I would be honored to bring you as my guests. Still, if you wish to talk to them in advance, Miss Yun and her uncle should be at Yujing Terrace at the moment, discussing some ceremonial matters with the Qixing.

Paimon
What are they doing there?

Isabella
Probably they are discussing some things with Lady Keqing and Miss Ganyu. If you wish to give a visit to them, you now know where to visit first.

Traveler
I’d like to see them too.

Zhongli
Very well then. I won’t keep you here any longer. If you need any assistance, please do not hesitate to come visit me.

Paimon
We’ll keep that in mind. See you Zhongli!

Isabella
Ah before we go. Mister Zhongli, please don’t forget your wallet. Tao said she is too busy to follow you around.

Zhongli
Ahaha! Thank you for the reminder, but no need to worry. This time I didn’t forget my wallet. Have you ever seen those new wallet hangers? It is very popular among young people and it’s perfect to catch attention before I leave my home. Beside the utility of this new apparatus, it appears in different colors and sometimes it is given with little figures as well. With this hanger attached to my belt, I hope not to forget my wallet ever again.

Paimon
Oh? Can Paimon see?

Zhongli
Sure

Paimon
Aww, it looks so cute? And that figure looks kinda familiar.

Traveler
It reminds me of Xiao’s mask.

Zhongli
If you are also interested, there are various other alternatives as well. I personally thought this one would be better to carry with me, especially during my visits to Wangshu Inn. It would be more difficult to pay my loans if I forget my wallet, am I right?

Traveler
You just want to tease Xiao.

Zhongli
Hahaha! You have a sharp tongue, don't you? Well, currently I don’t have such an intention. In fact, I was out to buy a gift for the young couple we just mentioned.

Traveler
How thoughtful of you.

Zhongli
Of course, gifts to newly married couples are important in Liyue’s culture. This way we can support them financially as they prepare their new home they will share. Most people would prefer to give red envelopes filled with mora if they can’t decide what material is more suitable for them. If you are certain about their interests, you can also choose something with more utility that the new couple can use as they think about you. Or some golden jewelry for the bride to show how important she is on the happiest day of her life.

Paimon
What do you plan to get from them, Zhongli?

Zhongli
Since they will host their parents after the ceremony at their new home for the first time, I thought a jade tea set would be perfect to serve tea with.

Tartaglia
That’s a good idea. Actually we should also start looking for a gift.

Paimon
You guys haven't bought anything yet?

Isabella
I wanted to check a bit longer, but there’s not much time left.

Tartaglia
After talking to Mian Feng, the two of us might go shopping.

Isabella
Sure. Then let’s set off quickly.

Zhongli
Good luck on your search.

Paimon
Bye bye then!

(Yujing Terrace.)

Paimon
Huh, Paimon can’t see any familiar faces.

Isabella
Hmm… Oh, there is Ganyu and Yao Yao. They are coming out of the building just now.

Paimon
Great! Let’s go talk to them. Hi Ganyu, hi Yao Yao!

Ganyu
Oh hello everyone. What are you doing here?

Traveler
We were looking for Yun Jin and his uncle. Do you know where they are by any chance?

Ganyu
You mean Master Mian Feng? They are still inside the building, talking with Lady Keqing. For the wedding orchestra, Master Mian Feng asked her niece to perform for them. Now they are discussing Miss Yun Jin’s stage dress and accessories.

Yao Yao
Miss Yun Jin prefers something less attractive in order not to steal the attention from the bride, but Master Mian Feng insists on buying the most beautiful dress on the market, saying this will be the most important performance for him. So he wants her to look beautiful.

Isabella
Awww, how lovely.

Paimon
Are you two attending the ceremony?

Ganyu
Of course. We both received invitations. I asked Shenhe and Cloud Retainer to join me too, but they both refused, saying they are not meant to be there. However, Cloud Retainer wanted me to send her good regards and one of her newest inventions as a wedding gift. And if you ask for Vigilant Yaksha… It is impossible to convince him to leave the Wangshu Inn.

Yao Yao
I’m also bringing Qiqi. Doctor Baizhu allowed us to go together, but he won’t be joining us since he’s busy.

Traveler
What did you prepare as a gift?

Yao Yao
I made a special spice collection for them. I bottled each spice in a special jar with colorful decorations. If they use my spices, they can cook delicious and healthy foods and never get sick.

Paimon
Wow! That’s a great idea! Paimon still can’t think of any type of gift to give them.

Ganyu
You can just give them envelopes. You are not close with the couple, so they won’t think bad if your gift is not much thought on it.

Paimon
Zhongli mentioned envelopes too. Maybe we should go with that, just to be sure.

Isabella
Ugh… I still need to think about something.

Paimon
Why don’t you also give an envelope?

Isabella

Cuz I’m closer with Mister Mian Feng. I have known him for a long time. Ever since I came to Liyue, he helped me a lot when I was in trouble. I can’t just give them a random envelope and mora.

Traveler
I didn’t notice you were that close.

Isabella
He’s at least ten years older than me. So when I first came here, he was already an adult. And it was very important for a kid that young to have someone reliable around. I owe him a lot.

Ganyu
I can recommend some places for the best gifts if you want.

Isabella
That would be great. Ah wait, he’s coming.

(Mian Feng, Yun Jin and Keqing leaves the building.)

Mian Feng
Look at who’s here. How are you, Isabella?

Isabella
Getting ready for the ceremony.

Yun Jin
It’s good to see you everyone. I assume Traveler and Paimon are also informed about the upcoming wedding.

Paimon
Yup yup! Congratulations!

Mian Feng
Thank you both. Probably this is the first time you heard about me but I know a lot of you.

Paimon
Hehe! That must be because she saved the nation from that ancient God and Fatui. There’s not a single person who doesn’t know their achievements.

Mian Feng
Yes, that is too. But mainly because trying to escape from the Millileth and working with Fatui. If it wasn’t for Isabella, I would have captured you long before you could return to the city after leaving with Mister Zhongli. You didn’t think Millileth was incapable of catching two outlanders, right?

Traveler
…

Paimon
Umm… But, how come Isabella knew about us?

Isabella
I know everything about Tartaglia, and of course I know he saved you two. I just had to go inform Mian Feng that you two are not an actual threat. That’s why he withdrew his man.

Paimon
So we owe you, huh? Paimon always thought that she’s a villain with secret plans.

Traveler

Just like Diluc and Cailean said: we should not prejudge others.

Paimon
Aw, Paimon feels terrible now. We are sorry Isabella.

Isabella
Hehe, that’s ok. By the way, did you choose your dress little Jin?

Keqing
It was a long argument but finally we agreed on a dress. Miss Yun Jin insisted on a simple dress, but later on we called her friend Xinyan. They discussed it between them and finally agreed on a dress that’s for everyone’s liking.

Paimon
This is great news!

Yun Jin
Sigh, I’m so excited for the show. As my uncle said, it will be the most important performance of my life.

Mian Feng
No need to exaggerate. You will have a chance to get on bigger stages, but this one will be unforgettable for me.

Yun Jin
Whatever makes you two happy, makes me happy too.

Yao Yao
We are all looking forward to it.

Yun Jin
Thank you all.

Mian Feng
Well then. I’ll ask for your permission to leave. There are a few more places to visit. Keqing, I’ll leave the meeting with Chef Mao to you. I believe you’ll handle it better than me.

Keqing
You’re flattering me. Don’t worry, I’ll do my best for the servings.

Yun Jin
See you later uncle. If you need me, I’ll be with the orchestra to practice.

Mian Feng
Got it. Don’t wait for your mother to take you. Her mind is in the air nowadays.

Yun Jin
I know, I know.

(Mian Feng leaves.)

Yun Jin
Traveler, I hope to see you during the ceremony too.

Paimon
We’d love to. But we don’t have an invitation yet.

Yun Jin
Oh my! Did we forget you? I apologize, we have been super busy recently.

Paimon
No need to apologize. We just came to the harbor anyway.

Ganyu
Don’t worry Miss Yun, I’ll lend their invitation myself. After a second thought, maybe I should check that we didn’t miss anyone else.

Yun Jin
I’m very grateful to you. Then please excuse me, I need to hurry.

Lumin
See you at the ceremony.

Yun Jin
See you later everyone.

(Yun Jin leaves.)

Ganyu
Then I’ll send your invitation as well as the list of shops for Isabella.

Isabella
Thank you Ganyu, I appreciate it.

(Ganyu and Yao Yao leave.)

Isabella
Shall we look something together meanwhile?

Tartaglia
Fine by me. Traveler, Paimon, welcome back to Liyue. We part ways here.

Isabella
I’ll also return to Cailean’s letter after these. Now we’re leaving.

(Isabella and Tartaglia leave.)

Paimon
Great! Good thing we came here all the way. Otherwise we would miss the celebration. Also, Keqing mentioned talking to Chef Mao. Could it be he and Xiangling cooking for the guests? Shall we go check for them?

(In front of Wanmin Restaurant.)

Chef Mao
Hello Traveler, it’s been a while. What can I serve you?

Paimon
Hello Chef Mao. We heard that you are preparing the servings for the wedding.

Chef Mao
Yes. This is the biggest order we’ve ever received. Xiangling is working so hard with giant pots. When I’m done here, I’ll go to help her too.

Paimon
It must be a very tough job. Good luck to both of you.

Chef Mao
Thank you. Anyway, what can I serve you?

Paimon
Hmm. After floating around, Paimon is really hungry. So how about some Bamboo Shoot Soup as starter, then Crystal Shrimps and Dragon Beard Noodles. And of course Grilled Tiger Fish with Jeuyun Chili Chicken. As dessert, two servings of Chicken Tofu Pudding. And of course Mint Salad to keep the balance. We also need some vegetables too.

Chef Mao
Haha, gotch’ya! Right on the way, please wait a moment.

(Chef Mao prepares the food. Paimon and Traveler gulps them all in one go.)

Paimon
That was soooo dellllicious! Thanks Chef Mao.

Chef Mak
Don’t mention it. Glad you liked it. Come again any time.

(Next day, Traveler and Paimon walked along the Boulevard.)

Paimon
Huh, isn’t that Xingqiu and Hu Tao? They seemed troubled. Shall we go check on them?

Millileth Guard
We are sorry about the inconvenience, but rest assured. Millileth will do their best to catch those thieves on time.

Hu Tao
Aiyyah! And when we thought everything was going smoothly.

Paimon
Hu Tao, Xingqiu what’s the problem?

Xingqiu
Oh, Traveler. Right on cue. We were just talking about some stolen decorations that the Feiyun Commerce Guild prepared.

Hu Tao
This is unacceptable! After all that hard work to gather them all, those thieves dare to lay hands on someone else’s property… Such dishonor!

Paimon
Don’t worry, we can go get them back.

Xingqiu
Please don’t bother yourselves. Those are just a bunch of Treasure Hoarders, not a big threat. Millileth will go bring them back in no time. It’s just Hu Tao is stressing about the situation, that’s all.

Millileth
Yes. Please don’t worry anymore. Our men are on their way to catch those thieves.

Hu Tao
Please be quick! This wedding depends on you!

Millileth
Please have faith in us. Now excuse me.

(Guard leaves.)

Xingqiu
Come now. Everything will be alright. Even if we can’t get the goods back on time, the Guild can prepare another patch.

Hu Tao
But that means extra work for you. Uh… Sorry about it Xingqiu.

Xingqiu
No need to apologize. It is my pleasure to be able to help with such an important occasion. And my apologies, we couldn’t greet you properly. It’s good to see you both again.

Hu Tao
Welcome you two. Sorry, I was busy for the last few weeks. My cousin is getting married soon-

Paimon
Yeah we heard about it. Congratulations. We also saw the groom too.

Hu Tao
That’s great. My cousin is now at the tailor. I was with her until Xingqiu informed me about the stolen goods. Sigh, such a shame that our most joyous day should have such sorrowful memories.

Xingqiu
Don’t say that. After the ceremony, you won’t even remember those thieves. Meanwhile I will send over the second patch. My father personally arranged those decorations to fit perfectly to both families.

Hu Tao
I can’t thank you more.

Paimon
Everyone’s working so hard. It’s like almost everyone in Liyue is working for them.

Hu Tao
That’s because Mian Feng is The Tianxuan of Liyue Qixing. He has a quiet reputation among the people. Every member of Millileth, Qixing and Guilds; officials and merchants know him very well. Not only that but the reputation of Yun family rose back with Yun Jin’s operas too. You can say that he is the most popular person in the Harbor, after you and Lady Ningguang.

Paimon
Wow, Paimon didn’t know he was such an important person.

Xingqiu
Of course he is. Even without his relationships with others, he’s responsible for the safety of the people of Liyue. That alone makes him so important to us.

Hu Tao
On the other hand, my cousin is very popular among my clients too, hehe.

Paimon
Uh oh.

Hu Tao
Wangsheng Funeral Parlor respects all their clients and is determined to give the best service as we farewell their relatives one last time. However, there is one person that no one can forget. Cold, dead eyes that cry woe, still can smile to death so warm. If only I could make you mine, even death would be lovely as much as you are. Those are the feelings of my young male clients’ after seeing my cousin. They would fall in love immediately after seeing her. But there was only one person who occupied her dreams.

Traveler
And it was Mian Feng, correct?

Paimon
Aww, that must be what they call true love.

Xingqiu
Their love story is also one of my favorites, the time when they first met.

Hu Tao
I can retell it for you. Hmmm, how would I start? Oh right. It all started when my grandpa was still in charge of the parlor. I don’t remember the details since I was still young, but it was roughly like this: A young man who just lost his beloved one, who had to be an old guard. His burning heart fell into despair as he buried away the deceased. That must be the end, he cried. That’s when he saw a new light. So delicate yet so pathetic, a burning cold shivers your heart. This must be the death itself. She sat next to the young man and said, you needn't cry. You are not the one who’s buried underneath. Instead look at the sky, immense and expectant to anew. A life ends and burgeons a new life. Farewell the death as it fulfilled its duty and embrace the life for opportunities it offers. With a new horizon found, a stone enlightens his life. The will to protect the weak, grants him a vision and a lover. As he swings his spear, it shines brighter. That’s how they first met.

Paimon
Sniff! That was so beautiful.

Hu Tao
When Guan Yin first saw Mian Feng at his dad’s funeral, she pitied him and tried to cheer him up. But little she knew, that time they spent opened the gate to better accomplishments in his life. Guan Yin not only saved his life but also improved it. That was the time when Mian Feng decided to follow his dad’s steps and protect the citizens, especially Guan Yin. And that was also the time when got his Vision.

Traveler
They must truly love each other.

Xingqiu
There’s more on Miss Guan Yin’s side. Everytime a client comes to confess to her, she would refuse them thinking it’s just a confusion of emotions. But when General came back to see her, he was a changed man with goals and dreams. He was confident and stronger than ever. That’s how he stole Miss Guan Yin’s heart at one try.

Hu Tao
That’s correct. They spent a long time together, they even ran away from home for a week. When they came back, they announced that they decided to engage. That was a huge shock for all of us, but everyone was already waiting for this moment.

Paimon
Awww, this is so romantic. Paimon wishes for a loooong happy life for both of them.

Traveler
Until death separates them.

Hu Tao
Thank you both. You should definitely attend the ceremony. Yun Jin and I’ll be waiting for you.

Paimon
We will be there for sure and show our support to the two families.

Xingqiu
It was a nice talk everyone, but I should head back now. The second patch won’t send itself.

Hu Tao

Thank you for everything Xingqiu. Please send my regards to your father.

Xingqiu
I will. Until the ceremony.

(Xingqiu leaves.)

Paimon
By the way, Hu Tao, is there any gift recommendation to give the couple?

Hu Tao
Just bring yourselves. You are not expected to bring any gift at all.

Paimon
We are actually asking for Isabella. She was thinking so hard about the gift and seemed a little troubled.

Hu Tao
Ah, I see, I see. You are asking what Mian Feng would like then. Maybe you should ask Yun Jin about it since she knows her uncle better than me.

Paimon
Actually we tried. But she’s off to practice for the ceremony.

Hu Tao
Then there’s nothing much I can offer. Sorry for not being helpful.

Paimon
Well, thanks anyway. Hope the rest of the preparations go smoothly.

Hu Tao
Thanks. See you at the ceremony.

(Paimon and Traveler visit shops.)

Paimon
Hey look! It’s Ningguang! What is she doing? Could she be looking for a gift too? Let’s go say hi to her.

Ningguang
Look who’s here.

Paimon
Hello Ningguang. Are you out shopping for the wedding too?

Ningguang
So you heard about that. Yes, I just came to get the package myself. I ordered a silken linens set specially woven for the couple.

Traveler
That sounds expensive.

Ningguang
It’s not about mora, but rather, I’d like them to spend their nights on more comfortable sheets. How much mora I spend for them is insignificant.

Paimon
That sounds romantic.

Ningguang
I assume you are also out shopping.

Traveler
We are actually getting ideas for Isabella.

Ningguang
Isabella? So you know her?

(Paimon briefly explains the situation.)

Ningguang
Ah, I see. Then I can give a few recommendations.

Traveler

That would be great.

Ningguang
The best gift Isabella can give him is… Being happy.

Paimon
What? Is that all?

Ningguang
When Isabella first came to Liyue, she was still a child with no one to rely on. Besides, she had to deal with that Harbinger too.

Paimon
Harbinger? You mean Tartaglia?

Ningguang
Although they are still peers, his childish acts and all the trouble he caused gave Isabella more stress than usual. During that time, Mian Feng had just joined Qixing as Tianxuan. He saw how lonely she was and decided to take care of her. You can say that Mian Feng is a brother figure for Isabella. And a brother would only want his little sister’s happiness. It is normal that Isabella wants to give them a gift, but there’s no need to worry. Whatever she comes up with will make the couple happy.

Traveler
We just need to convince her.

Ningguang
Surely you can do so, since you know her already.

Paimon
Leave it to us! But Paimon thinks she found something until now. Remember, Ganyu offered her a list of gift shops. She should have received that list already. Let’s go find her and ask how her search is going.

(Traveler nods.)

Ningguang
It’s so thoughtful of you. I hope to see you two during the ceremony.

(Paimon and Traveler return to Northlan Bank. Tartaglia and Isabella are outside.)

Paimon
Hi Isabella! Did you find any gifts yet?

Isabella
Yes, I think that will suit them perfectly. These are a pair of hairpins for both of them. A crown shaped hairpin for Mian Feng, and a needle decorated with flowers for Guan Yi.

Paimon
They look so beauuuutiful! Aaand a bit expensive.

Traveler
They are also matching.

Isabella
Yes. Mian Feng’s always on guard, so he always ties his hair. This hairpin is strong enough to hold them together and never lets go. For Guan Yi, I thought it looks elegant so this fits for her.

Paimon
You finally found the perfect gift for them, good job! Although, we also saw Ningguang on our way and asked her for some gift recommendations.

Traveler
She said, your happiness would be enough for Mian Feng.

Isabella
Aw, thank you. But that won’t be enough for me! Though, I’ve already found my gift so there’s no problem. And thank you for helping me. I’ll pay you back next time.

Tartaglia
Don’t mention it. You can call it our gift, cuz personally, I have no clue what to present them. They might not be happy to see me at all.

Paimon
Wait, so did Tartaglia pay for these? Huh, no wonder why they look so expensive.

Isabella
Yeah… Since those are very durable hairpins, they cost more than usual. And I don’t bring that much mora with me all the time.

Tartaglia

Since I’m here, you are never short of mora anyway. Don’t worry about it.

Paimon
Usual Tartaglia, spending mora like it’s growing on trees.

Tartaglia
As long as it makes my friends happy, I don’t mind it.

Isabella
At the end, all the mora he spends comes back to Northlan Bank sooner or later.

Tartaglia
And here’s your invitation. That Adeptus secretary gave this to us along with the gift list.

Paimon
Finally! We got our invitation. Now we just need to prepare an envelope and wait till the wedding day.

Isabella
You may want to find some clothes to wear to the wedding too.

Paimon
Huh? What clothes?

Isabella
It will be a traditional Liyue wedding, so everyone will be wearing traditional clothes. I don’t think it will be a problem if you show up with your usual clothes, but since it’s a special occasion, you might want to put some effort into your look.

Paimon
Paimon didn’t know that there is a dress code. Um… Since we are already out, maybe we should also look for some clothes, just to fit in.

Traveler
I know the best person to help us.

Paimon
Who is that? Oh! Could this person be Ying’er?

(Traveler nods.)

Isabella
We also got ours from her.

Tartaglia
Uh-oh! Not that lady, right?

Paimon
Hm? What’s wrong?

Tartaglia
Uh… Nothing. It’s just, being around her is making me nervous, that’s all.

Paimon
Oh, so you’re being shy around her? Hmmm?

Traveler
Hmmm?

Tartaglia
No, I’m not. But I don’t like to get too close to her. Anyway, if you’re going to visit her shop, then I’m heading back.

Isabella
If you get too scared, you can hide behind me.

Tartaglia
Don’t be ridiculous. I have things to deal with anyway. You know, the things Pantalone asked the two of us.

Isabella
Oh, I totally forgot…

Paimon
Huh? What are you talking about?

Isabella
Nothing. Usual debt collection. We are heading back then. See you soon.

Paimon
Bye bye. Good luck with your work Isabella.

Traveler
Please be careful not to get in trouble.

Isabella
I’ll do my best… See ya.

(Tartaglia and Isabella leave.)

Paimon
Paimon is now thinking that this job is making Isabella sad. Still, Paimon has no idea why she’s continuing to work with them.

Traveler
Ningguang mentioned that she doesn’t have anyone to rely on.

Paimon

Oh, does that mean she’s an orphan? If that’s the case, then she has no place to go.

Traveler
She might be bound to House of the Hearth too.

Paimon
Gasp! You’re right! House of the Hearth was an Snezhnayan orphanage where they raise recruits, and it’s ruled by a Harbinger. Fatui must be taking advantage of her for not having parents. And Mian Feng was protecting her the whole time!

Traveler
That’s how she might be able to disobey the Harbingers.

Paimon
Yeah! Mian Feng stopped the manipulations on her. Aww, poor Isabella. Now Paimon feels really sorry for her. To make her happy, let’s go buy the clothes and show it off. Surely she will be excited to see us in Liyue’s traditional clothes.

(In front of the Scent of Spring.)

Ying’er
Well hello! Isn’t that the dear Traveler and her cute companion? How can I help you?

Paimon
Hi Ying’er. We wanted to ask for clothes recommendations for a wedding.

Ying’er
You mean Master Mian Feng’s? Are you joining the ceremony too?

Paimon
Yeah! Wait, are you also joining?

Ying’er
Of course. I’ve already prepared a very beautiful porcelain set. Master Mian Feng saved my shop before, so giving out a special set is nothing compared to what he did for me.

Paimon
What do you mean by that?

Ying’er
Well, a few years ago a group of merchants wanted to take advantage of me. They forcefully entered the shop and seized everything I had. I was left behind, hopeless and frightened. Master Mian Feng then found those thieves and brought my porcelain back to me without any damage taken. He saved my shop, so I owe him a lot.

Paimon
That’s so scary!

Traveler
Glad you are fine now.

Ying’er
No need to worry. It’s been a long time already. So, you are looking for clothes. You’re in the right place. Porcelain is my specialty, but I can sew clothes for special occasions too. Let’s enter inside, so I can take better measurements.

Paimon
Yay! Paimon is so excited.

(Ying’er takes measurements.)

Ying’er
Your clothes will be ready in four days. You will still have time to try them on before the ceremony.

Paimon
Thank you Ying’er.

Ying’er
It is my pleasure.

Paimon
Now all we have to do is wait!

(Duo takes a stroll around the harbor. Mian Feng is talking to Millileth guards.)

Mian Feng
I’m heading there myself then. I didn’t suspect the situation to be tougher than just a bunch of Treasure Hoarders.

Paimon
Mian Feng, what’s wrong?

Mian Feng
Nothing to worry about. Rest assured, I’ll be on my way to fix the problem. There is not a single problem I can not solve.

Paimon
Let us help too. We are not just ordinary people.

Traveler
Is it about stolen goods?

Mian Feng
So you heard about them? Well if that’s the case, there’s no need to hide it. The patch that Feiyun Commerce Guild ordered was stolen by a bunch of Treasure Hoarders somewhere near to Jeuyun Karst. However, it turns out that wasn’t a simple theft. Fatui is also in this. The reason for their involvement is still unclear, but I’m going to find the hidden truth behind this. If you want to see a show, then you can come along.

Paimon
Actually, it would be interesting to see Tianxuan in action. Ok sir, lead the way.

(Jeuyun Karst, Treasure Hoarders camp.)

Treasure Hoarder 1
Hehe! All this expensive stuff will be enough for more than a month. We hit the jackpot this time.

Fatui Agent
Don’t forget that you will be receiving your share after Northland Bank pays off the Qixing’s debt. Don’t even think about getting away with all the patch. Otherwise you will regret it.

Treasure Hoarder 1
You made us do the dirty work, and we don’t get paid properly, you won’t be seeing the goods at all. Do you understand?

Fatui Skirmisher
You are not a match to us. So it would be wiser to be careful with your actions.

Mian Feng
And you are not a match to me.

Fatui Skirmisher
Huh?

Mian Feng
So that was your reason to steal them. You wanted to cover the financial damage that Tianquan caused you after destroying the Jade Chamber.

Fatui Agent

Huh! That’s an old story. We have other methods to deal with every problem. However, consider this more like a congratulation gift general. Your bloody hands shall not touch these goods and devalue them.

Paimon
W-what do you mean by bloody hands? Did Mian Feng…

Fatui Agent

People of Liyue are so naive, so blind. You see us, Fatui, as the only bad guy here and responsible for everything. But what did our comrades do to you beneath the Chasm? Tell me? Who were you punishing when you left them underground to death? Now, this is your paying. Bring her here!

(Treasure Hoarders bring a girl tied up.)

Mian Feng
Guan Yi! How did you-

Fatui Agent
It was very easy to catch an idled girl like her, being lost while looking at beautiful dresses. That, is your pay back.

Mian Feng
Let her go, now!

(Mian Feng fights against the Fatui and Hoarders with Traveler. After beating everyone else, one Treasure Hoarder brings Guan Yi to the edge.)

Treasure Hoarder 2
Don’t take any steps, or I’ll push her.

Mian Feng

Leave her alone!

Treasure Hoarder 2
We just want the goods. If you let us go, she can live.

Mian Feng
We are not negotiating over someone’s life. It’s between your and her life.

Treasure Hoarder 2

So that’s your final answer huh? Well, let it be then.

(Treasure Hoarder pushes Guan Yi off the clift. Mian Feng jumps behind her while Traveler knocks the hoarder down before he can escape. Mian Feng catches Guan Yi before they reach the ground and they make a safe fall.)

(Traveler follows them on the downside.)

Paimon
Are you ok? Did you guys get hurt? That was so scary!

Guan Yi
I didn’t get scared at all. I knew Mian Feng would save me. Although, even if we failed at the end, the death is not a stranger but instead a friend.

Mian Feng
Still, it’s a bit early to greet him… How did they manage to capture you?

Guan Yi
I was trying on some clothes, but I got so tired and took a rest outside.

Paimon
That sounds pretty reckless.

Mian Feng
You are Tianxuan’s future wife, you will have more enemies than usual. Please be more careful from now on.

Guan Yi
Don’t worry about me.

Millileth Guard
General! We gathered the goods and captured the criminals. We are heading back to the city for further interrogation.

Mian Feng
Understood. I’ll be joining you in no time. Traveler, can you bring her back to harbor? I still have a few things to deal with.

Traveler
Rest assured.

Mian Feng
I’m so glad you came with me. Thank you both.

(Traveler brings Guan Yi back to harbor.)

Hu Tao
Guan Yi, where were you? We worried to death!

Guan Yi

I was taking a nap, please don’t worry about me.

Hu Tao
My goodness! What do you mean by taking a nap in the middle of shopping? There are still so many dresses we choose for you.

Paimon

Guess she doesn’t want to inform others about what actually happened? But how come no one’s suspecting anything?

Traveler
Let’s not mention anything.

Paimon
Yeah. They already seem troubled enough. Let’s just sneak away.