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(Liyue Arc will be focused on History and Character Development for Aila. The Author might be thinking that he/she didn't need a vase as an attendant; or he/she might be a long-winded individual in this Arc.)
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Chapter 88. Albedo Arrives in Liyue Harbor
"Sigh… they're both parents—how can there be such a vast difference?"
The Shopkeeper's Daughter let out a soft sigh, though she also understood that if she herself had been abducted, her parents would probably have been frantic with worry.
Perhaps they would have taken out some treasured heirloom as well—ah, but her family didn't possess a talisman of everlasting morality, so never mind.
With that thought, she sighed once more and let it pass, no longer dwelling on it.
"Then, in Liyue Harbor, does her family have any other relatives?"
At that moment, Futsu Mitama asked the Shopkeeper's Daughter whether the girl had any other kin.
"Other than me, probably not." She looked at him with mild confusion, clearly not understanding why he was asking, but still answered honestly. "If we're talking about direct relatives, then aside from her parents, there's no one else. I'm only a distant relation."
"Her bloodline is—rather delicate. If her parents don't intend to have another child, then it will likely end there. I'm related to her, yes, but only distantly. But strictly speaking, I am her only relative still in Liyue Harbor. After all, both my parents and her parents have already left."
At this point, the Shopkeeper's Daughter sighed again, unsure what she ought to say. It was as though she were mourning a younger sister she had only met a handful of times in childhood.
"I see." Futsu Mitama regarded her with a subtle, unreadable expression. He had not expected her to be Aila's only remaining relative in Liyue Harbor.
Such a connection was truly coincidental—so coincidental that it felt as though someone had arranged it deliberately.
Kuki Shinobu also sighed inwardly, equally taken aback by the coincidence of encountering Aila's sole relative so unexpectedly.
"Oh, right." Suddenly, Kuki Shinobu remembered something. Turning to the Shopkeeper's Daughter, she said, "I've never known how to address you."
"Could you tell me your name? It would make things easier going forward."
At her words, both the Shopkeeper's Daughter and Futsu Mitama froze.
"This—"
Only then did the Shopkeeper's Daughter seem to realize that she truly had never introduced herself.
Futsu Mitama also frowned slightly, suddenly recalling that he had once asked for her name—but the moment had been interrupted, and afterward—he had somehow forgotten entirely.
"Hmm~ I really don't think I ever did introduce myself." The Shopkeeper's Daughter inhaled softly, then looked at Futsu Mitama with an earnest expression. "Actually, my name is—"
"Slap!"
The door flew open.
The attendant responsible for receiving guests outside rushed in, stammering urgently, "Ni—Ningguang! Ningguang is here!"
The Shopkeeper's Daughter, having been cut off mid-sentence, showed a faintly complicated expression. But upon hearing Ningguang's name, surprise quickly replaced it.
Tianquan Ningguang—her family's collaborator.
To put it simply—her parents' collaborator.
Guiyan Assembly was destined to become affiliated with one of the Qixing. It was said to be an ancestral teaching, intended to make Liyue even better.
At the same time, it was also meant to forge magical artifacts that could be used by the adeptus. To search for precious ores and rare forgeable materials.
With Ningguang's arrival announced, the Shopkeeper's Daughter no longer lingered on introductions and hurried out of the private room, greeting Tianquan Ningguang just outside Guiyan Assembly.
Ningguang watched her emerge in such a rush and smiled faintly. "It's been quite some time. The last time we met should have been—oh?"
Her gaze shifted, landing on Futsu Mitama and Kuki Shinobu as they stepped out as well. "I didn't expect the two of you to be here."
Surprise flickered across her face. She truly had not anticipated encountering them at Guiyan Assembly. She had come today to discuss matters with the Shopkeeper's Daughter. With the Rite of Descension approaching, she naturally wouldn't miss such an opportunity.
Every Rite of Descension brought joy to some and sorrow to others—but Ningguang was always among the joyful.
No matter the year, she always turned a tremendous profit. And next year's Rite of Descension would be hosted by her personally. For that purpose, she had long since made preparations. She intended to make it magnificent—and, while she was at it, persuade Lord Rex Lapis to approve several policies beneficial to Liyue.
As for this year, however, the Rite was hosted by Keqing, the Yuheng Star. It had little to do with Ningguang. Her role was simply to earn mora and continue expanding the Jade Chamber.
"Mm." Futsu Mitama smiled and nodded. "Long time no see, Miss Ningguang."
"It's only been three or four days, Mr. Futsu Mitama." Ningguang replied politely. She was well aware of his identity, and her smile remained measured. "Are you here to see how the Primo Geosvishap scale is selling?"
From their prior exchanges, Ningguang knew he had entrusted the scales to Guiyan Assembly. Coincidentally, she herself intended to purchase one as a collectible. She didn't necessarily need it—but she absolutely couldn't afford not to have it.
"No." Futsu Mitama shook his head, glancing toward the Shopkeeper's Daughter beside him. "I came to check on the progress of the material collection. I purchased a batch of forging ores here. I didn't expect to encounter you here, Miss Ningguang."
Ningguang cast a curious glance at the Shopkeeper's Daughter and chuckled softly. "Fate brings people together. How about we go inside and sit?"
Originally, she had planned to buy the scale, exchange a few words, and leave. But now that she had encountered Futsu Mitama, her plans naturally shifted.
Facing her active invitation, Futsu Mitama nodded. "Very well. I also have something I'd like to discuss with you."
As a leading voice among the Qixing—or rather, as Ningguang, who effectively held Liyue's strategic 'nuclear button'—he had no reservations about speaking with her.
After all, in the story, she was often described as a "mini-Zhongli."
Zhongli summoned meteorites to crush his foes.
Ningguang used the Jade Chamber.
With control over such overwhelming power, her influence within the Qixing was immense. Futsu Mitama had long intended to speak with her regarding Dottore.
"Mm." Ningguang smiled, then turned to the Shopkeeper's Daughter. "May I trouble you for the largest and most complete piece of Primo Geovishap?"
"No one will compete with me. I'm merely purchasing it as a collectible."
"I'll offer one hundred million mora."
The Shopkeeper's Daughter couldn't help but gasp.
"Huufff—!"
Futsu Mitama and Kuki Shinobu also sucked in a sharp breath.
One hundred million mora?!
They hadn't misheard—had they?!
One hundred million mora—for a single, relatively complete scale from the Primo Geovishap?!
"A very reasonable price." Ningguang smiled faintly as she looked at Futsu Mitama. "The Primo Geovishap has already fallen. For at least the next several hundred years, it will be impossible for another Primo Geovishap to appear anywhere on Liyue's land."
"A Primo Geovishap scale can be passed down as a family heirloom. In times of crisis, it may be exchanged for mora, or even put to use in other ways. Thus, from my perspective, purchasing it for one hundred million mora is a most worthwhile investment."
Her smile was gentle and composed, giving off an air of approachability—yet Futsu Mitama, Kuki Shinobu, and the Shopkeeper's Daughter were all left utterly stunned.
"I—I'll go prepare it at once and draft the contract immediately!" The Shopkeeper's Daughter hurried toward the back, already moving to retrieve the item.
While she was away, Ningguang held her pipe and regarded Futsu Mitama with a calm, amused smile. Soon after, the three entered a private room, and the perceptive attendant quietly withdrew.
"What a grand gesture—" Kuki Shinobu couldn't help but exclaim as she looked at Ningguang. While she had already been astonished by Futsu Mitama's previous transactions, she could still barely come to terms with them.
But this—this casual one hundred million mora—made her wonder whether it was merely pocket change for Ningguang, something she could produce without a second thought.
Of course, Kuki Shinobu had long heard of Tianquan Ningguang's reputation. In Liyue Harbor, she was known as "Grandma Ningguang."
In a sense, her methods were decisive and formidable. In the realm of commerce, she stood at the very summit of Liyue. With a single decision, she could sway the hearts of countless merchants.
If Lord Rex Lapis descended once a year to guide Liyue's people forward—Then throughout the remaining days, Ningguang guided Liyue's merchants down innumerable paths—most of which led to ruin.
Only a select few concealed staggering fortunes, enough to stir the hearts of all who caught even a glimpse.
"A grand gesture?" Ningguang chuckled softly and dismissed the notion with a wave of her hand. "One hundred million mora is insignificant. It probably wouldn't even be enough to kill a Primo Geovishap. Much less the remnants of Demon Gods that Lord Rex Lapis once slew and sealed throughout Liyue."
In Ningguang's view, mora had its value—but it was far from omnipotent.
No matter how vast her wealth, it could not deal with existences like a Primo Geovishap or Demon God remnants. Even if she were to throw out a billion mora, it would still amount to nothing against such beings.
After all, the Primo Geovishap had not been weak. It had been slain by two adeptus—no, rather, by one adeptus, one adeptal disciple, and a retainer of the Raiden Shogun.
In other words, it had taken the combined might of two and a half beings at the adeptus level to bring it down.
In Ningguang's estimation, Futsu Mitama was an existence comparable to an adeptus, while Shenhe, as an adeptal disciple, was slightly weaker.
Of course, she had never personally witnessed the full extent of their strength and could only judge based on what she had observed at the scene.
Thus, Shenhe was counted as half an adeptus, while Futsu Mitama—bearing the title of the Raiden Shogun's retainer—was deemed fully at that level, especially according to Fatui intelligence.
After all, in Inazuma, Futsu Mitama had defeated two Fatui Harbingers.
The Harbingers were no ordinary foes. Each wielded authority linked to the Cryo Archon, placing them on the same level as Futsu Mitama's own authority.
To defeat two of them was proof enough that his strength was anything but ordinary.
What Ningguang did not realize, however, was that Cloud Retainer alone had been sufficient to suppress the Primo Geovishap. Futsu Mitama and Shenhe had merely been there to prevent its escape.
Even after the creature merged with Demon God remnants and gained a measure of additional power, it had still been no match for Cloud Retainer.
If their strength were truly calculated, Futsu Mitama was actually the weakest among them.
Shenhe had cultivated for many years. Her strength, talisman arts, and terrifying physical power far surpassed his own—so much so that even Futsu Mitama felt faintly ashamed by comparison.
"But without mora, nothing is possible." Futsu Mitama replied with a smile.
What use was strength alone? He sought power for the sake of survival.
Even one who reached the level of the Seven Archons could end up like the bard of Mondstadt—swindling others for a drink.
Without mora, nothing could be done.
Ningguang's smile brightened noticeably. She clearly agreed.
Without mora, even with the title of Tianquan, she could never have built the Jade Chamber. Without mora, how could she have arranged that 'dragon king' of The Crux Fleet?
"Very well." Ningguang tapped her pipe lightly. "While the goods are being prepared and the contract finalized, there's something I'd like to ask."
She looked at Futsu Mitama and Kuki Shinobu. "You two encountered Dottore earlier today at Xinyue Kiosk, didn't you?"
Neither of them appeared surprised.
After all, what news in Liyue Harbor could truly escape the Qixing? Moreover, after Keqing's return yesterday, she would certainly have informed the others.
Ningguang's inquiry was little more than a formality.
Given the current relationship between the Qixing and Futsu Mitama, even silence would not have mattered.
"Mm." Futsu Mitama met her gaze calmly. "He attempted to recruit me and claimed he could help me become a god."
He briefly recounted the encounter, including the matter concerning Black Aila
At present, the Qixing were trustworthy. There was little reason to hide such things. Furthermore, the Shopkeeper's Daughter's words had already made it clear—her family was deeply connected to the Qixing. Revealing Aila's identity was no longer a significant concern.
After all, as a victim from eight or nine years ago, both the Qixing and the Adeptus bore a sense of guilt toward her.
"I see." Ningguang nodded, her expression turning slightly complex as she looked at Futsu Mitama. Her tone softened. "You may rest assured regarding Dottore."
"This is Liyue, not Snezhnaya. And he may be even stranger than we imagined."
She continued, sharing what the Qixing had uncovered. "After leaving the Northland Bank, Dottore departed Liyue Harbor. His current whereabouts are unknown. The personnel we dispatched to track him lost his trail. We suspect that the recent decrease in monsters across Liyue, as well as the unsealing of several sites, may be related to his activities."
Ningguang tapped the table lightly, her expression grave. With the Rite of Descension drawing near, Dottore's actions were proving troublesome. Moreover, the Fatui stationed at the Northland Bank had already stated that Dottore had entered Liyue on his own initiative.
The Harbingers there had no authority over him. For this, Tartaglia had paid the corresponding fine.
After all, Dottore had entered the nation without permission or notice—an extremely dangerous individual acting independently.
Should he cause further trouble, Ningguang's first target would be the Northland Bank.
"Not the Abyss Order?" Futsu Mitama frowned slightly.
In his understanding, such unsealing incidents were often the Abyss Order's handiwork. They had done similar things countless times before, acting with no regard for the harm caused, driven by hostility toward the Seven Archons.
It was precisely for this reason that all seven nations maintained strict suppression of the Abyss Order.
"The Abyss Order is one factor," Ningguang replied evenly. "But in one of the newly opened ruins, we discovered something else."
"What we found doesn't appear to be Abyssal in origin. Rather, it resembles Snezhnayan technology—though the traces were handled with great care."
"Fortunately, I have capable people. Subtle details were enough to reconstruct most of the process."
Kuki Shinobu's expression tightened. "Then—is it possible that Dottore and the Abyss Order—"
"No."
"No."
Ningguang and Futsu Mitama answered in unison.
Snezhnaya maintained the most aggressive suppression of the Abyss among all nations. Even in places like The Chasm, they would intervene.
Harbingers such as Tartaglia and Scaramouche had fought within the Abyss itself.
To cooperate with the Abyss was to invite betrayal.
Dottore was far too intelligent not to understand that once exposed, such cooperation would end all his plans. Utilizing Abyssal power and cooperating with the Abyss were two entirely different matters.
"Nevertheless," Ningguang said calmly, "Dottore harbors no goodwill. Toward you—or toward Liyue. If he attacks you outside the city, leave evidence. The Qixing will stand with you."
Her intent was clear: reassurance.
Futsu Mitama had contributed more than enough to Liyue. By reason and by sentiment, the Qixing would support him.
"Understood." Futsu Mitama nodded.
At that moment, the Shopkeeper's Daughter returned, carrying the most complete Primo Geovishap scale along with the prepared contract. She hesitated, confirming once more whether Ningguang truly intended to offer one hundred million mora.
In her own estimation, the scale was worth no more than forty million.
"Yes." Ningguang nodded calmly.
She was not joking—and she was certainly not short on mora. This was merely a hundred of million. Why make a fuss?
More importantly, she sensed that turbulent times lay ahead for Liyue.
Establishing goodwill with Futsu Mitama now was well worth the price.
Kuki Shinobu carefully reviewed the contract. Finding no flaws, she praised the Shopkeeper's Daughter for her professionalism.
Under her witness, the transaction was finalized.
With the deal concluded, Ningguang departed in high spirits, inviting them to visit the Jade Chamber whenever they wished.
After she left, the Shopkeeper's Daughter collapsed into a chair, sipping cool tea with a dazed smile. "I can't believe I just closed a one hundred million mora deal—"
"Even if it's not mine, it still counts toward performance."
She giggled softly.
Just then, Futsu Mitama noticed a message in the chat group.
Albedo: "@Futsu Mitama @Aila @Kuki Shinobu Where are you now? Mt. Aocang?"
Ayaka: "Teacher Albedo actually asked first."
Kokomi: "A miracle. But shouldn't you already be near Liyue Harbor?"
Makoto: "You've been traveling for ages. Why so slow? A Vision holder shouldn't be this slow."
Zhongli: "Delays are not uncommon."
Azhdaha: "Welcome to Liyue—though you're late. Most of Futsu Mitama's troubles are already resolved."
Albedo: "That's fine. I trust the Group Leader. I look forward to what's next."
Futsu Mitama: "I'm at Guiyan Assembly in Liyue Harbor."
Kuki Shinobu: "@Albedo Want me to pick you up?"
Zhongli: "I'm at Wangsheng Funeral Parlor. I'll prepare tea. Director Hu stepped out."
Futsu Mitama quietly exhaled.
Perfect timing.
Albedo: "Yes. We're near Liyue Harbor now."
Azhdaha: "'We'? You brought companions? Why didn't you mention it?"
Raiden Makoto: "So you're traveling together? No wonder your pace slowed."
Futsu Mitama: "Huh????"
Kuki Shinobu: "If you're already near Liyue Harbor, that's quite fast. You must be tired—why not rest at Wangsheng Funeral Parlor for a while?"
Yae Miko: "How delightful. The two of them are finally meeting. Such a pity I can't leave my post."
Kamisato Ayaka: "Alas…the Kamisato Clan is overwhelmed with duties. I truly have no time."
Sangonomiya Kokomi: "The Resistance is the same. If only I could divide myself in two."
Futsu Mitama: "@Albedo Since you're almost here, we'll come pick you up. By the way—who's with you? A friend, or a disciple?"
Albedo: "Hmm… more like my younger sister. We should arrive in Liyue Harbor in a few minutes."
Futsu Mitama: "?"
Inside the chat group, Futsu Mitama continued speaking with Albedo while turning toward the Shopkeeper's Daughter. "Apologies—we have something urgent to attend to. We'll visit again later."
With that, he prepared to leave with Kuki Shinobu.
"Oh—oh, of course." Seeing his hurried expression, the Shopkeeper's Daughter didn't try to detain him. She only reminded him, "Be sure to come back tonight to collect the one hundred million mora. I won't feel at ease leaving it here."
"Even though Liyue Harbor is very safe—it is one hundred million mora, after all."
Futsu Mitama nodded, indicating his understanding, then departed Guiyan Assembly with Kuki Shinobu, heading swiftly toward the entrance of Liyue Harbor.
"A younger sister—could it be her?" He stroked his chin, his expression turning subtle. If it truly was her, then Albedo's slow journey suddenly made perfect sense.
With such a walking bundle of chaos, incidents were inevitable.
"Hm?" Kuki Shinobu glanced at him helplessly. "You haven't even met Albedo yet, and you already know who his sister is?"
She had long since grown accustomed to this. After all, Futsu Mitama had once casually revealed that the Raiden Shogun in Tenshukaku was merely a puppet, while the true Archon had long secluded herself.
Compared to that revelation, identifying Albedo's sister hardly registered as shocking.
"Yes." Futsu Mitama nodded solemnly. "I possess Clairvoyance EX. Mondstadt. Inazuma. Liyue. Sumeru. Fontaine—There's nothing I don't know. As for Nathlan—I know half of it."
"…" Kuki Shinobu's expression became faintly complicated. "I don't know what Clairvoyance EX is, but judging by your face—something's wrong with Albedo's sister, isn't there?"
She could see it clearly—the mix of amusement and resignation on his face spoke volumes.
"Hmm~ how should I put it?" Futsu Mitama pondered for a moment. "Her personality is a bit like Hu Tao's. Actually—she's even more lively."
Hu Tao was already energetic enough. But Klee—Klee was on an entirely different level.
Well-behaved, obedient, adorable—yes. But also explosively active, utterly carefree, and frighteningly innocent.
"Can she cook?" Kuki Shinobu asked cautiously.
At the mention of Hu Tao, she instinctively recalled her unique culinary talents. Kuki Shinobu had no doubt that if Hu Tao ever offered food to lingering spirits, they might choose reincarnation on the spot.
"No." Futsu Mitama shook his head, gazing ahead. "She makes bombs."
"…?"
Kuki Shinobu tilted her head in silence.
As they spoke, the two arrived at the entrance of Liyue Harbor. The area was bustling—streams of people entered and exited, while the Millelith stood guard in increased numbers.
Several capable officers were even overseeing inspections.
With the Rite of Descension approaching, heightened security was only natural. Once festivities began, certain areas of Liyue Harbor would undoubtedly become packed beyond measure.
Through the chat group, Futsu Mitama informed Albedo that they were waiting at the bridge leading into the harbor.
Thanks to countless livestreams, Albedo recognized them immediately and replied that he would arrive shortly.
Moments later, a young man with ash-blond hair and turquoise eyes approached—accompanied by a small girl. Given their attire, Futsu Mitama and Kuki Shinobu stood out unmistakably.
"Sorry to keep you waiting." Albedo greeted them with a faintly apologetic smile. "There were—quite a few delays."
"Welcome to Liyue." Futsu Mitama stepped forward, extending his hand with a smile. "Nice to finally meet you. I'm Futsu Mitama."
"Group Leader, you're far too polite." Albedo smiled helplessly but returned the gesture. "I'm Albedo—Chief Alchemist of the Knights of Favonius, Captain of the Investigation Team."
"Me too! Me too!!" A bright, energetic voice cut in as the little girl planted her hands on her hips. "I'm the Spark Knight of the Knights of Favonius—Klee!"
Kuki Shinobu immediately crouched down, producing a lollipop she had prepared in advance. Handing it over, she introduced herself gently. "My name is Kuki Shinobu."
"Mm!" Klee's eyes lit up as she looked at the candy, then turned to Albedo, silently asking permission.
"~" Albedo smiled softly. "Go on. Miss Shinobu is being kind."
"Yay!" Klee cheered, accepting the lollipop. "Sister Shinobu is a good person!"
Kuki Shinobu smiled faintly. She had always liked well-behaved children.
"Do you have plans yet?" Futsu Mitama asked Albedo, while Kuki Shinobu gently took Klee's hand.
"Honestly, things didn't quite go as expected." Albedo sighed.
He had come to Liyue partly to create condensed resin—and partly because he feared Futsu Mitama, unfamiliar with the region, might be taken advantage of.
Yet before departing Dragonspine, he encountered Klee. Upon hearing he was traveling to Liyue, she clung to him with teary eyes.
Resistance was futile.
After leaving a note for Sucrose, Albedo brought her along—only to encounter nonstop incidents.
Klee nearly caused a fire shortly after departure. Thankfully, Albedo intervened in time. Along the way, she alternated between boundless energy and deep sleep, delaying their progress significantly.
Although Albedo was curious about everything happening on Futsu Mitama's end, caring for Klee took priority.
Hence his prolonged "on the road" status in the chat group.
"Once I'm done tonight, I'll return to Mt. Aocang," Futsu Mitama offered. "You and Klee are welcome to stay at my house. There are plenty of rooms. I might even ask for some help cleaning. An inn isn't ideal with a child around. My place is spacious—feel free."
Albedo hesitated, glancing at Klee. "She's—rather fond of explosives. If anything were to—"
"It's fine," Futsu Mitama waved dismissively. "If the house explodes, we'll rebuild it. I've earned quite a bit of mora recently. The real concern is to not blowing up other people. Though if that happens, Director Hu next door would be thrilled."
Kuki Shinobu's mouth twitched. A one-stop funeral service, then.
"Klee won't use Jumpy Dumpty in the city!" Klee protested quickly. "Acting Grand Master Jean told me not to!"
"If Klee wants to play, I'll ask big brother Albedo to take me outside the city!"
That reassurance only made them like her more.
Albedo smiled dotingly. Sometimes obedient—sometimes—not.
Otherwise, Jean wouldn't have had to confine her so often.
At that moment, Zhongli tagged them in the chat, informing them that tea and pastries were ready.
"I suppose we should head to Wangsheng Funeral Parlor first." Futsu Mitama smiled.
He was very much looking forward to watching Zhongli face Klee. Especially with Hu Tao nearby.
"No problem." Albedo nodded thoughtfully, already curious about Mr. Zhongli.
And so, the group set off together toward Wangsheng Funeral Parlor.