[Because of your blunt remarks, Yukong was put in an awkward position, losing the chance to play either the good cop or the bad cop. After a moment of silence, Yukong decided to have someone take you to rest first.]
[Yukong understands that the arrival of the Express, even if not as friends, cannot be allowed to develop into enemies. Not to mention the great name of the Astral Express resounding through the cosmos. Facing the goodwill of the Express, the Luofu cannot ignore it.]
[Facing Yukong's dilemma, you choose...]
[ OPTION 1: TAKE THE INITIATIVE ]
You decide to take this opportunity to pressure Yukong directly, stating bluntly that her stance and methods are insufficient to deal with the current situation, and publicly proposing that she step down in exchange for someone more capable to meet you. Perhaps this can win the greatest initiative for the Express crew, forcing the Luofu to re-examine the possibility of cooperation with you.
(Potential Consequence: Yukong might be forced to compromise, but the Luofu high-level attitude toward you might change subtly.)
Reward: [Yukong's Archery]. (The archery experience mastered by Yukong in her lifetime.)
[ OPTION 2: FIRM REFUSAL ]
Give Yukong no way out. Directly state your position: The Express crew will not accept any of her solicitation, nor will they become anyone's pawns. You state that you will only act in your own way, refusing the Luofu's arrangements, and explicitly stating that if the Luofu dares to continue probing, the Express crew does not mind taking their own way to solve the problem.
(Potential Consequence: The Luofu might be more wary of you, but might also begin to truly value your strength.)
Reward: [Aurumaton Core]. (A component of Xianzhou Ingenuity. The center of Xianzhou mechanics. The core pulses like a heart orifice, making the machine think like a living thing. Don't be alarmed. Removing its heart can make him... uh, her? No, make it lose its intelligence and return to metal and stone.)
[ OPTION 3: WAIT FOR THE OPPORTUNITY ]
You are not eager to express your stance, but go with the flow to accept Yukong's arrangements. Observe the movements within the Luofu first, and act when the opportunity arises. While Yukong is in a dilemma, you choose to play a role of "Cooperation but not Attachment," secretly looking for a more favorable breakthrough point, while making the Luofu guess more about your true purpose.
(Potential Consequence: Yukong might stabilize the situation temporarily, but you will also get deeper infiltration opportunities, and maybe even find unexpected allies.)
Reward: [Small Starskiff]. (A small Starskiff from the Luofu, built with Delve technology. Can enlarge and shrink. Please experience the specific situation yourself.)
As the three options appeared.
In the next second, the writing on the entire panel shook suddenly, seeming to freeze and flicker.
Then, new writing appeared.
[Facing Yukong's dilemma, you chose to Wait For The Opportunity, deciding to secretly look for a more favorable breakthrough point in the following time.]
[Congratulations on obtaining Option Three Reward: One Small Starskiff. Can be extracted at any time.]
"Starskiff?"
Looking at the options appearing, Kael's expression suddenly became strange.
This thing can also be a reward?
As for having already made the third choice, it wasn't surprising.
Before in Mondstadt, facing Jean, he took the initiative to attack and also obtained the reward in advance.
Although the only drawback of this step was that he couldn't know the rewards of the options in advance and had to choose based on the situation.
But currently, the benefits obtained seemed not bad?
Looking at the reward of the Starskiff, he could extract it at any time now.
"We're here."
At this time, Keqing spoke suddenly.
Kael looked up.
He saw an inn in front of him.
Keqing's tone was as capable and concise as ever, her purple long hair swaying slightly in the night wind.
The light of the glazed lamp shone on her robe, outlining a soft silhouette, but not reducing her unique heroism and majesty at all.
"This is an inn specifically providing accommodation in Liyue Harbor, built in a waterfront location near the commercial district, allowing foreign travelers to rest with peace of mind."
Keqing continued to speak, introducing it to Kael, Lumine, and Paimon.
At the same time, leading the three in.
The wooden gate of the inn towered high.
The eaves were carved with exquisite auspicious beast patterns.
Red lanterns hung high on the lintel, revealing a warm halo.
Several staff members were busy back and forth, receiving passing guests.
The air was filled with a faint sandalwood scent mixed with tea fragrance, making people feel exceptionally comfortable.
Passing through the threshold, in front was a spacious lobby.
Mahogany tables and chairs were arranged neatly. A glazed long lamp was lit in the corner against the wall, reflecting a soft halo.
Keqing walked quickly into the front desk, exchanged a few brief words with a manager, and arranged the rooms.
Then she turned to look at Kael, Lumine, and Paimon, whispering, "Your rooms are ready. On the second floor, by the window. The environment is quiet and should be enough for you to rest."
"The manager will take you up later."
"Thank you!"
Hearing Keqing's words, Paimon rubbed her hands excitedly. "Lady Yuheng, you are so thoughtful."
"Liyue welcomes guests from afar."
Keqing nodded gently and continued, "However, I still have official duties and cannot continue to accompany you."
Saying this, Keqing took a deep look at Kael.
A trace of hesitation flashed in her purple pupils, seemingly wanting to ask something else.
But finally, she just said, "If you encounter any problems in Liyue City, you can ask the Millelith directly. They will provide necessary assistance."
After speaking, Keqing didn't stay much longer, but turned and strode away.
Keqing's steps were steady, her hem drawing a smooth arc in the night.
Without looking back, she disappeared at the end of the brightly lit street.
Kael looked at the direction she disappeared, his eyes flickering slightly.
This Yuheng of the Liyue Qixing really lives up to her reputation.
Decisive in action, quick in decision-making, without any sloppiness.
"Wow—"
As soon as Keqing walked away, Paimon couldn't help patting her chest, exclaiming, "This Lady Yuheng of Liyue is really resolute!"
"Left just like that, not dragging things out at all!"
Paimon floated a circle in the air, blinking her eyes, looking at Lumine and Kael. "But, such a person is indeed powerful!"
"No wonder she can be a Liyue Qixing!"
Lumine nodded.
Keqing's ability and efficiency were indeed outstanding among the Liyue Qixing.
Even the Millelith dared not neglect in front of her.
But compared to Keqing's quick departure, Paimon was more concerned about another thing.
"Hehe! Since the room is arranged, can we go out to visit the night market and have a big meal?!"
Paimon waved her small hand excitedly, her face written with expectation, excitement unstoppable in her voice. "Think about it, Mondstadt doesn't have things like night markets. At night, taverns and shops are basically closed, nothing fun at all!"
"But Liyue is different!"
"This is the most commercially prosperous city. I heard Liyue's night market is super lively, with various snack stalls."
"And storytellers, performers, and even many strange things to buy!"
Paimon got more excited as she spoke, finally reaching out her small hand to pull Lumine's sleeve directly, begging, "Lumine, Lumine! Let's go to the night market!"
Lumine looked at Paimon with a laugh, nodding gently. "Then let's go. Just right to see Liyue's night view."
Paimon spun in place excitedly instantly. "Hehe! Let's go, let's go."
"Guests."
At this time, the manager walked over, speaking respectfully to Lumine, "Your rooms are arranged. Need to take a moment of your time."
"Right."
Hearing this, Paimon scratched her head immediately.
Immediately, she went up the stairs with Lumine and Kael, saw their rooms.
After recognizing the place, the manager left.
And Lumine, after knowing the location, also went downstairs.
Walking toward the streets inside Liyue City.
Under the night, the streets of Liyue City were already brilliantly lit.
The shouts of vendors and the conversations of travelers intertwined, forming a lively picture.
Walking along the main street, a rich aroma of roasted meat suddenly permeated the air.
That was the char flavor roasted by charcoal fire, blending with the fat of fresh meat, bursting out an alluring smell, whetting the appetite.
"Roasted meat! It's the smell of roasted meat!"
Paimon sniffed the aroma in the air, eyes lighting up instantly, like a small beast smelling food, clapping her small hands excitedly. "We must go see!"
Looking toward the aroma.
Sure enough, a lively roasted meat stall had a long line.
The stall owner was a robust middle-aged man, skillfully turning the skewers in his hand.
The charcoal fire was red. Meat skewers rolled constantly on the charcoal fire.
Brushed with special secret sauce, grease dripped onto the charcoal, making a sizzle sound, bringing up wisps of alluring smoke.
"Come, come, come! Freshly roasted Spicy Beef Skewers, exclusive secret seasoning, spicy and fresh, one bite enters the soul!"
The stall owner shouted heroically. Skewers of golden and oily lamb, beef, chicken wings, and squid tentacles were neatly arranged on the wooden board, overflowing with aroma, attracting a group of diners to stop.
"Give me three beef skewers! And two chicken wings!"
"Roasted squid! I want roasted squid! Extra spicy!"
In the crowd, there were young people from Liyue and travelers from outside.
Everyone was attracted by this pungent aroma, taking out Mora to buy one after another.
Paimon pounced impatiently, slapping Mora directly on the stall. "I want this, this, and that! Add more sauce!"
The stall owner took the Mora readily and quickly handed several skewers of alluringly colored roasted meat to Paimon.
Paimon took a bite immediately. Her mouth was instantly filled with spicy, crispy, and tender texture, eyes glowing. "Wah! Too delicious! Liyue's roasted meat is indeed a supreme product on earth!"
Paimon chewed roasted meat, holding a lamb skewer in her left hand, a roasted chicken wing in her right, and half a squid tentacle in her mouth.
With a posture of "vowing to eat all of Liyue," she flew east and west excitedly, gorging herself in the night market.
She looked at this stall, tried that stall, almost stopping to buy whenever she saw new snacks.
Before long, Paimon's hands and mouth were stuffed with food.
Even the small bag Lumine prepared for Paimon was piled with various dim sum and snacks.
"Mmh... This Honey Roasted Fish is too fragrant!"
"Fried Crab Roe Buns! There is actually such a thing? I want one!"
"Taro Cakes! Taro Cakes! Can't miss this either!"
Along the way, Paimon was completely immersed in the ocean of food.
Her mouth couldn't stop at all. Every bite was full of happiness.
Lumine and Kael didn't sweep crazily like Paimon, but they were also involuntarily attracted by the atmosphere of the Liyue night market.
The two walked slowly along the street, admiring the unique charm of this prosperous city.
Walking all the way, they unknowingly arrived at the coastal area of Liyue Harbor.
The prosperity of the port was completely different from the night market in the city.
There was no shouting of vendors here.
Instead, it was full of the orderly order of merchant ships docking and workers busy.
By the pier, huge merchant ships were docked at the port, sails fluttering in the wind.
The water shimmered, reflecting the lights of thousands of homes in Liyue.
Several merchants wearing Liyue-style long robes stood on the pier, talking about the trade of goods with the ship owners who were about to leave.
Some used abacuses to calculate the amount of Mora quickly, while others checked the packaging of goods to ensure everything was correct.
Standing here, one could overlook the magnificent scene of the entire Liyue Harbor—
Rows of buildings lit up countless lights under the night.
Lights reflected on the water surface, like a galaxy pouring down.
Crowds shuttled through streets and alleys. Caravans were endless. A thriving scene of prosperity.
Kael narrowed his eyes slightly, looking at the prosperous night view of this port, sighing slightly in his heart:
This is Liyue.
The place with the most human fireworks, a commercial capital cast with wisdom and sweat.
Compared to Mondstadt, he really liked this city too much.
If asked to choose a residence, it would definitely be Liyue.
"Wah—"
Paimon ate with satisfaction, looking up at the brightly lit Liyue Harbor in the distance, unable to help sighing, "Liyue's night is really too lively... Completely different from Mondstadt!"
Lumine nodded gently, looking gently at this city full of human breath. "Yes, Liyue's prosperity is incomparable to other places."
While Lumine and Paimon were talking.
Kael thought of the reward just now, and his heart moved suddenly.
He hadn't piloted a Starskiff yet.
This thing was also a very good means of transport in Teyvat.
If possible, he could extract it now and get familiar with it.
He couldn't just leave it unextracted forever.
Without hesitation, Kael walked decisively toward the open area of Liyue Harbor in front.
There was no one there anymore. He could extract the Starskiff.
"Eh?"
Seeing Kael move suddenly, Paimon asked in surprise, "Kael, what are you going to do?"
"Getting a tool."
Kael spoke without looking back.
Bringing out a Starskiff in front of Paimon and Lumine wasn't a strange thing.
Anyway, both of them had long accepted his mystery.
"Ah?"
Hearing this, Paimon and Lumine looked at each other.
But still followed immediately.
Soon they followed Kael to a sea surface at the port of Liyue Harbor.
Under the night, the sea surface of Liyue Harbor was magnificent. Waves patted the bluestone steps on the shore gently.
Moonlight spilled on the sea surface, reflecting a layer of silver-white brilliance, like broken silver flowing.
Kael moved his mind and extracted the Starskiff instantly.
In an instant, a gloomy blue halo emerged before him.
Like some mysterious energy flowing.
The sea breeze became gentle at this moment, and a strange ripple actually appeared on the sea surface.
Immediately after, a low roar came from the air.
As if some long-sleeping existence was slowly waking up.
BOOM—!
In the next second, a huge and ancient aircraft suddenly emerged before everyone's eyes.
Its body was like a finely crafted sea ship, suspended above the sea surface.
Surrounded by faint blue-purple streamers, like a mysterious flying fish from ancient legends, descending quietly into this world.
It was the Starskiff!
The shape of this Starskiff was between a ship and an aircraft.
The hull was slender, the streamlined outline appearing both stable and dynamic.
The whole body presented a deep indigo blue, like the firmament under the night sky, dotted with starlight-like rune imprints, faintly revealing mysterious light.
The bow part was narrow and slightly upturned, like a whale leaping out of the water, or a divine bird about to spread its wings and fly high, revealing an elegant posture.
Metal structures like wings extended from both sides of the hull, carved with exquisite Luofu-style patterns.
The edges hung with light tassels and ornaments, fluttering gently with the wind, adding a trace of simple and mysterious charm.
At the stern, a streamlined flight propulsion device was hidden.
Surrounded by soft energy rings, like some starry sky trajectory in Teyvat, making the entire Starskiff seem to float in an invisible sea of stars.
On the side of the hull, a huge ring-shaped energy core was slowly rotating.
Inlaid with unknown runes inside, pale blue light looming, seemingly absorbing energy between heaven and earth continuously to maintain the operation of the Starskiff.
It maintained the stable structure of a traditional sea ship, yet integrated the unique flight mechanism technology of the Luofu, making it not only able to sail on the water surface but also fly in the air, as if truly a mysterious boat carrying stars.
"Quite good-looking."
Looking at the appearance of the Starskiff, Kael raised an eyebrow.
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