There are ways that people try to look into what happens in the past, present, and the future, but there is more than how it is told through time itself. Sometimes, information can be seen written in the stars themselves. Of course, Nintega believes this as he's been studying up on astrology ever since they've arrived in Mondstadt to impress a certain female that he's looking forward to meeting. He won't admit it, but he's been waiting for this a long time.

Nintega is seen walking in a pitch black background with a spotlight following him his entire path before he eventually stops at a grand piano. He takes a deep breath before sitting down and testing the keys on the piano before smirking. He stretches his fingers out before he begins playing a soothing melody on the piano.

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TheNintegaGuy: This one... goes to... the greatest astrologist that I know... and most of all... the one I love, Mona Megistus.

As Nintega played, different images of Mona appeared around him, shooting him different reactions that he was likely daydreaming about, most of which involved her fawning over him.

(Nintega)

♪ Mona, you're so cool! You're the water that makes me flow! ♪

♪ Mona, understand! I'd give a million Mora just for yoooooou! ♪

♪ Oh, Mona, Mona, Mona, Mona, Mona! ♪

♪ Mona, Mona, Mona, Mona, Mona! ♪

♪ I Love you! Oh! ♪

♪ Mona, Mona, Mona, Mona, Mona! ♪

♪ Mona, Mona, Mona, Mona, Mona! ♪

♪ I Love you! Oh!  ♪

♪ I look at every star in the sky! ♪

♪ A thousand constellations could never make me forget you! ♪

♪ Mona, I'll never ever stop! Just for you! ♪

♪ Oh, Mona, Mona, Mona, Mona, Mona! ♪

♪ Mona, Mona, Mona, Mona, Mona! ♪

♪ I Love you! Oh! ♪

♪ Mona! Mona!

♪ MOOOOONAAAAAA!!! MOOOOOONAAAAA!!!!! ♪

The more the song progressed, the more Nintega got into it, leaving him quite distracted at the moment. So distracted in fact that it wasn't until the sound of yelling slowly drove him out of his fantasy world.

Jordanwolfboy9743: *distantly* NINTEGA!

Shadowlight2784: *distantly* NINTEGA!

Lumine: *distantly* NINTEGA!

Paimon: NINTEGAAAAAA!!

That yell was more than loud enough to break Nintega out of his daydream world as Paimon apparently yelled straight into Nintega's ear that he jumped and fell backwards in a chair that he was sitting in.

Back in the reality of Teyvat, the group was actually all at Good Hunter as four out of the five heroes sitting there were all looking down at their fearless leader who had fallen backwards on his chair, staring up at the sky with an awkward blush. Nintega then realized how vividly he was daydreaming as he pulled himself back up to sit upright while slapping a hand to his face.

TheNintegaGuy: That was a dream?! No, no, no, no, no!

Meanwhile, Shadow and Jordan were shooting Nintega smirks while Lumine and Paimon were just plain confused..

Jordanwolfboy9743: So uh... had some trouble sleeping last night, buddy~?

He asked, teasingly. Knowing that he was already caught red-handed, Nintega just glares back at the others.

TheNintegaGuy: What's with the interrogation, Jordan?! Everything's fine I said!!!

He then got up from his seat and ran off with a flustered face and a frustrated groan as the rest of the group just stared off at his sudden leave. Jordan and Shadow on the other hand simply looked at each other, smug expressions plastered onto their faces as they knew all too well who Nintega was daydreaming about.

Shadowlight2784: *whisper* One hundred thousand Mora says he was thinking about who I'm thinking about~

Jordanwolfboy9743: *whisper* *snickers* We'd have to split it evenly then, 'cause I'm thinking of the same person myself~

They share a snicker before high fiving each other. Meanwhile, Lumine and Paimon just looked at each other as Paimon shrugged her shoulders.

Lumine: What in the heck was that all about?

Paimon: Yeah, he kept saying someone's name in his sleep.

Lumine: The better question is... Why did he go to sleep in the first place? He was bright-eyed and bushy-tailed when walking with us here to Good Hunter.

Her fairy girl companion rubs the top of her head, trying to think of the reason.

Paimon: Hmm... Paimon can't think of anything.

Meanwhile, back in the Knights of Favonius headquarters, Nintega ran into his room and slammed the door shut before putting his back up against it in case anyone followed him. He was hyperventilating with a red face while trying to take deep breaths the best that he could to calm himself down.

TheNintegaGuy: That was close! That was close! That was really, REALLY close!!

He then slid his back down the door while having both of his hands on his head, giving his temples a rub.

TheNintegaGuy: Just keep it together, Nintega... For as long as you're in Teyvat... you'll have the chance of meeting with... the most talented... erudite... *blushes* N-Not to mention, beautiful astrologist in this world...

He sighs again before looking over towards a direction as he sees a certain parchment near his bed as he walks over to it and picks it up. He takes a look to see that it was the Teyvat Travel Guide, showing a map of the entire world. He then notices a section right near Liyue, a small rocky road that leads straight to the beach city itself. He knows for a fact that in the game, you would meet the astrologist there, but the question was when.

Nintega puts a finger to his chin before looking over at the astrology books on a desk that he borrowed from the library.

TheNintegaGuy: Unless... maybe... Just maybe... I'm the one who needs to go find her instead... Astrology can predict the future and tell fortunes after all...

He takes a look at the map again and cringes seeing how far Liyue is from Mondstadt. He looks outside to see the sun was still rising which meant that he had plenty of time to spend his day however he wanted.

TheNintegaGuy: Could it... really be possible that she could predict that I'm going there to meet her? It's a long shot, but... there is a chance.

Nintega looks back at the books on his desk before thinking hard on it more and after a minute of pondering, he finally made up his mind. He grabbed the astrology books and placed them inside of a backpack as he zipped it closed.

TheNintegaGuy: I don't think any of us were even planning on going to Liyue early, but... To find the answers, desperate times call for desperate measures!

He puts the backpack on his back before rushing back outside to make his way out of Mondstadt to go and find the esteemed astrologist that he so desperately admires.

Back outside, Jordan, Lumine, Shadow, and Jordan were still at Good Hunter as Shadow was keeping Paimon back from taking any of their food that they haven't eaten yet.

Paimon: Come on! Paimon's still hungry!

Shadowlight2784: *sigh* You ate THREE whole helpings of Sticky Honey Roast! How can you still possibly be hungry?!

Jordanwolfboy9743: Shadow, it's Paimon. Her stomach may as well be a black hole.

Lumine: *giggles* Maybe her stomach is really where all of the emergency food is kept.

Paimon: O-Oh, come on! Enough with the emergency food jokes already!

She said flailing her arms and stomping the air in a cute tantrum.

Jordanwolfboy9743: You always walk right into them, pipsqueak. Deal with it.

Paimon crosses her arms before she along with the others notice Nintega walk right past them with the backpack on his back as this confused all of them.

Jordanwolfboy9743: Off on a road trip somewhere, pal?

Nintega freezes from this question as he knows that he'll have to answer, otherwise, he'll just come off as suspicious.

TheNintegaGuy: U-Um... Uh... Y-You could say that... I just uh... need to run an errand. Y-You guys won't see me back until later this evening.

Lumine: Doing what? What's so important that you're leaving us out of some sort of expedition?

More drops of sweat accumulated on Nintega's head as he tried his hardest to think of a clever excuse.

TheNintegaGuy: I-It's uh... L-Let's just say it's more of a commission from the Adventurer's Guild. E-Even the Honorary Knights of Favonius can take commissions at times too, right? You do them all of the time, Lumine.

Lumine: Yeah, but most of the time, early in the morning.

Shadowlight2784: Buddy, what's going on here?

TheNintegaGuy: NOTHING!

He shouted causing all of them to flinch and some people even turned their way towards Nintega causing him to blush slightly in embarrassment before turning around and jogging away.

TheNintegaGuy: I-I'll explain everything to you guys later! I've got to go before I'm late!

As Nintega ran off, Jordan, Shadow, and Lumine all looked at each other with raised eyebrows on where Nintega could possibly be going. However, Paimon slightly floated towards the direction Nintega went and she couldn't help, but feel the most curious out of the group on where Nintega could possibly be heading off to that it required him to not explain the full story.

The journey definitely took a while as Nintega had to ask for some directions on how to get to Liyue and thankfully people were kind enough to point him towards the right path. Nintega is seen strolling around the pathway, sweating a bit as he almost reaches Liyue at this point. He arrived about a half a mile near the harbor as he remembers Mona being somewhere around the area as he takes a look around.

TheNintegaGuy: She's gotta be around here somewhere. I'm practically in Liyue at this point. It'll probably be the evening if I head back now, might as well make use of the time that I have now.

Suddenly, a hand raises from behind Nintega and touches him to which he freaks out as he jumps while looking flustered.

TheNintegaGuy: I-I WASN'T STALKING YOU, I PROMISE!

Paimon: Stalking? Wait, is that what you're doing? That's creepy, Nintega.

Hearing that annoying yet adorable voice made Nintega get a good look to see that it was actually Paimon who startled him as he sighs in relief before turning around and glaring at her from behind his shoulder.

TheNintegaGuy: Paimon! What are you doing all the way out here?! I told you that I have some important business to take care of! It's better if I go alone!

Paimon: You didn't even know Paimon was right behind you this whole time which clearly means you need another set of eyes to look for you.

TheNintegaGuy: I can take care of myself, alright?! Go back to Mondstadt right now!

Paimon wasn't letting up as she floats over to Nintega's shoulder with a desperate look of wanting to come along.

Paimon: Come on, Nintega. You can't practically come all the way out here near Liyue with no one to look after you. Besides, Paimon's your friend, isn't she?

She said touching his shoulder as Nintega looks at her with a raised eyebrow.

TheNintegaGuy: Well... yeah...

Paimon: Then Paimon doesn't care what you say. Paimon's both coming with and here for you.

She gives him a cute smile as Nintega looks at her before down at the ground thinking about what Paimon said. He really wanted to meet Mona alone, but he also doesn't want to just abandon Paimon now that she's come so far out for him. Nintega then hangs his head down before reluctantly sighing.

TheNintegaGuy: Alright then...

Paimon: Yay~! So where are we going anyway?

TheNintegaGuy: To meet an astrologer... The great Mona Megistus.

...

...

...

Crickets were the only audible sound at the moment as Paimon just looked at Nintega with a puzzled expression.

Paimon: Umm... who?

She asked, scratching her head.

TheNintegaGuy: ...Of course you don't know. Tell me Paimon, do you know what astrology can be used for?

Paimon: Uhh... the study of... astro?

All Nintega could do to respond to this was with a facepalm while shaking his head before sighing.

TheNintegaGuy: You have no idea what it even is, do you?

Paimon: Well, Paimon didn't know she came all the way out here just for some schooling lessons!

TheNintegaGuy: *sighs* Astrology is the study of the stars. And different constellations shown in the stars can tell the meaning of what someone's fate can be, including yours, mine, even our friends. There's even a saying that I remember from the great Mona Megistus.

He then places a finger up with his eyes closed while imitating Mona the best that he can.

TheNintegaGuy: *imitating Mona* "Fate is called as such, for it cannot be changed, nor can it be reversed. It can only but be accepted."

Yet again, Paimon reacted with bafflement, tilting her head while blinking.

Paimon: Uhh...

TheNintegaGuy: *sigh* Nevermind. You're probably too young to understand that kind of stuff anyways.

He then strolls along the path with Paimon following right after him as while Paimon didn't get what Nintega was talking about, she still seemed interested in why or even how Nintega is planning on seeing Mona.

Paimon: So, Paimon still has one other question. If this person is so excellent, why do you want to meet them in the first place? And how did you know they would be out here too?

TheNintegaGuy: That's the thing... I don't know... I was expecting her to come to me eventually, but... something told me that if astrology can predict outcomes... maybe I'm the one who needs to go and see her instead.

Paimon: And... how do you know where to find her?

TheNintegaGuy: Well, if she is as good at astrology as they say, then she would have likely predicted our meeting at some point or another. I'm just trying to find out where, we're a half a mile from Liyue Harbor and I just know that she's around here some-

???: Finally!

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Both Nintega and Paimon jumped slightly from the sudden arrival of a third voice. Paimon was mostly confused, but Nintega... knew that voice all too well. So much so that his cheeks immediately began to burn bright red. Turning to the source, Nintega and Paimon looked up to find a small outpost that rested up against the archway mountains that led to Liyue Harbor. Sitting at the edge of a small walkway was a girl. She had pale sea green eyes and waist-length dark purple hair that turns slightly red at the ends with two gold compass rose ornaments clamped onto the tips. Her accessories consist of a gold earring that resembles a compass rose on her left ear, a black choker necklace adorned with another gold compass rose, a gold ornament on her right thigh, and a large blue-purple witch hat, adorned with gold compass rose decals and ornaments. Her outfit was that of a low-cut blue-purple backless leotard with detached blue-purple sleeves on her forearms and black gloves, along with a short blue-purple cloak, buttoned with a gold compass rose ornament hanging above her chest. She had a Hydro Vision mounted on the back of her cloak. She wears black translucent tights decorated with four-pointed stars on her left thigh. This was the person Nintega was looking for, the one he dreamed of meeting since coming to the world of Teyvat... the great astrologist herself, Mona Megistus.

She stretches her arms and legs out with a cute little squeak before looking down at Nintega and Paimon with a smirk.

Mona: I almost fell asleep waiting.

Not waiting for either of them, Mona hopped off the platform she was on and disappeared into a Hydro portal. In a millisecond, she appears right next to Nintega and Paimon, startling the both of them as she then summons an astrology rune through her hydromancy magic, smirking with a giggle as she observes it.

Mona: As usual, my astrological predictions are proven correct!

With a swipe of her hand, the rune disappeared and she looked back at Nintega and Paimon.

Mona: You. Yes, you. Come with me.

As she walked a few steps ahead, Nintega was in awe as he was wondering if he was dreaming right now as his face slowly turned into a goofy smile with heart-shaped eyes. Paimon looks at Nintega confused before pointing at Mona with an accusing finger.

Paimon: Um... are you some sort of door-to-door fortune teller? Sorry, but we're not really interested.

A few more steps did the astrologist take before she stopped, turning herself around with a flip of her hair before smirking down at them again.

Mona: You're... not from this world, are you?

Nintega's face didn't change while Paimon just grew a shocked look with widened eyes.

Paimon: How do you know about that?!

Mona: How? Because I'm a master of true astrology. If you've no other questions, let's be off.

Paimon turns to Nintega expecting a response from him to explain this, but she takes notice of his lovestruck face and floats over to him to get his attention.

Paimon: Nintega... Nintega!

She waves a hand in his face, still no response from him.

Paimon: Helloooo? Teyvat to Nintega!

She pokes the side of his head, but gets no response as he was off in his own little world. Pouting, Paimon brings two of her fingers to form scissors and jabs them right into Nintega's eyes, finally getting a reaction out of him as he yelps in pain.

TheNintegaGuy: YOW!

He covers both of his eyes before blinking rapidly and he turns to shoot an annoyed glare at Paimon.

TheNintegaGuy: What did you do that for?!

Paimon: Paimon was calling your name like three times! How can you not hear Paimon when Paimon is right next to you?!

TheNintegaGuy: I'm sorry... but can you see that I'm currently in the presence of astrologist, Mona Megistus herself?!

Hearing her name being used, Mona's eyes widened.

Mona: Oh, so... you already know of me?

This just caused Nintega to get even more excited.

TheNintegaGuy: Know of you?! I-I've been looking forward to this meeting myself! I-I'm not exactly an expert in astrology like you, but... I-I've been studying all that I can about it for the last couple of weeks! So much that something just struck my mind that you would predict that I would someday meet you here at this exact location!

The astrologist brings a hand to her chin and gives it a rub, humming as she does so.

Mona: Hmm. You certainly do fit the details. Well, I suppose I don't have to waste time with introductions then.

TheNintegaGuy: A-Actually, you... haven't really heard my name yet. Sorry. My name is Nintega. Since you already know that I'm not from Teyvat, then you must know that so are my other friends. This little munchkin right beside me is Paimon. She's my companion, but also a pain in my rear...

A tick mark appeared on the back of the fairy girl's head as she glared at the back of Nintega's head.

Paimon: W-Why you-!!

She tries going for an attack on Nintega's head, but his hand being shoved straight into her face stopped her before she could try as she hopelessly flailed her arms, striking nothing but air.

TheNintegaGuy: S-So, now that we've got introductions out of the way... I merely predicted that I'd meet you here by luck, but since you knew I'd be here through astrology, what's on the agenda next?

Mona: Oh, yes. *clears throat* I am on a mission to retrieve a certain box from Mondstadt. It was part of an agreement she made with a friend 50 years ago. But she isn't as spry as she used to be, so now it's up to me.

Paimon heard all of that as she turned to Mona, still confused.

Paimon: Not sure what getting some box back has to do with us. Why do you need us to come along?

Mona: Well... that's because I would also like to take on the guardian of the box. My master and her friend contended in the mystic arts all their lives without a clear victor. If I triumph here, then I will show myself to be superior to my master.

TheNintegaGuy: *chuckles* If you ask me, you show yourself to be more than capable of being superior.

Miraculously, Mona was taken aback by his compliment and Paimon wasn't sure, but she could have sworn that she spotted the briefest instance of a blush on Mona's cheeks.

Mona: *clears throat* W-Well... I want to prove the power and status of astrology, to be precise, but... thank you. From my predictions, I know that my master's friend has left Mondstadt, leaving her successor as the current guardian of the box. Like me, that successor must also be one who has surpassed their teacher. I must not be careless. But I would prefer to assure my victory in this contest, and upon giving it some thought, you came to mind!

TheNintegaGuy: I'm honored, but... even though I knew this would happen, why specifically me?

Mona: The knowledge passed down to me from my master must be passed on in turn. If I were to bring my disciple to meet her, then the lead is already mine, no? And you are one of Mondstadt's great heroes, my equal in status. So...

TheNintegaGuy: Say no more! I'm in!

Once again, Mona found herself surprised as a small part of her expected at least some resistance.

Mona: Oh... w-well then. Good. For future reference though, do not consider yourself my disciple just yet, you merely act the part for the time being. If we're successful, there will be something in it for you as well.

TheNintegaGuy: I've been studying astrology for quite some time and while I have grasped the basics, it wouldn't hurt to learn a little more from an expert... like yourself~ Consider that all that I want.

A blush crosses her face for a millisecond again before she lightly shakes it away.

Mona: Once I meet that successor and have a chance to exchange knowledge with them, I should be able to read your fate more accurately. Then, I will have answers for you, even regarding such distant and foggy matters as gods and kin, especially in regards to a certain friend of yours that desperately needs it.

Hearing that, Paimon floats up towards Nintega as the leader of the group turns to his companion.

Paimon: That... that does seem faster than searching the land country by country! Imagine how elated Lumine will be if Mona can actually help find her brother!

TheNintegaGuy: Well, keep in mind, we've got to take care of Mona's business first before we get into that... but yes, I suppose I can be in this for Lumine's sake too.

Mona: *giggles* A wise decision. Let us be off, then.

She walks down the path and Nintega couldn't help, but get another lovestruck face as he leans over and whispers to Paimon.

TheNintegaGuy: *whisper* She's so cool...

He then walks ahead while Paimon had a raised eyebrow on her face before gaining a deadpan on seeing Nintega flatter Mona so many times was enough for her to get the picture.

Paimon: (He's already got a thing for her! That explains why he was so adamant about reading all those astrology books! He wanted to impress her! What a suck-up!)

She then follows the two of them as they walk up the stairs as Mona was leading them to a quick stop before they make their way to Mondstadt.

Mona: There is a small inn near Mt. Tianheng that never sees a lot of business, even though its food is always great value for the money. The owner has always been good to me, so I'd like to say farewell before I set off.

TheNintegaGuy: Oh, of course. It is just a little bit after noon, so we've got a little bit of time on our hands.

The trio made their way up a small mountain and the inn that they've arrived at was so small that it was likely that it could hold only two or three people at a time. Seeing the quality of the inn didn't surprise Nintega and Paimon that it wasn't that popular near Liyue.

Paimon: *whisper* Well, it's no wonder that an inn set up here has no business...

TheNintegaGuy: *whisper* Even so, Mona said that the innkeeper has treated her nicely since she's stayed here, so let's just cut them just a small bit of slack.

The owner of the inn, Mr. Zhu, saw Mona and her presence got his attention as he had a look of worry on his face.

Mr. Zhu: Mona, you've come at the right time. Did you see a jade ring while you made your way here?

Mona: A jade ring? Can't say I have.

Hearing that filled Mr. Zhu with more worry as he places a hand on his face.

Mr. Zhu: Oh, that's not good... that ring was given to me by my mother. But while my back was turned, it was swallowed up by a slime!

Paimon: Hmm? That should be no trouble with Mona here. She's really good at astrology...

Both Nintega and Mona shot Paimon bewildered looks.

TheNintegaGuy: Didn't you listen to anything that I told you before coming here? That's not how astrology works. It's meant to gain insight into the fate and destiny of others. Astrology is not a tool that can just solve mundane affairs.

Nintega then realized what he said as he got a slight proud look on his face.

TheNintegaGuy: Hey... That reading paid off after all.

This got a look of confusion to appear on Mona's face as one of her eyebrows lifted.

Mona: Reading?

TheNintegaGuy: O-Oh... Just a library book that I borrowed from Mondstadt's library... I actually brought it with me just in case.

Reaching into his backpack, Nintega took out the very same book and presented it to her.

Mona: Oh, I see. That's a very good read by the way. The most accurate information I've seen, I'd say.

TheNintegaGuy: *chuckles* Well, if it makes me one step closer to knowing how you do it or even better, mastering it, then I don't see a reason to pass up the opportunity.

Paimon: *deadpans* Or better yet... trying to suck someone up to a da-

Nintega knew what Paimon was about to say as he grabbed her and placed a hand over her face to prevent her from spilling any unwanted beans as everything Paimon kept trying to say in Nintega's hand was muffled.

TheNintegaGuy: D-Don't mind her. But anyways, shouldn't we at least try to help him out here seeing as how he took you in and everything?

Mona: This is a matter of pride and one's state of mind. If an astrologist thinks that their arts can solve all problems, they will be forsaken by the starry ether. Their divinations will lose the power to guide, and will not be able to pierce the fog of the unknown before them. Principles are principles.

TheNintegaGuy: So... you haven't at least tried to make a living off of what you do?

His question left Mona silent as she reached up and rubbed the back of her head.

TheNintegaGuy: N-Nevermind. You don't have to answer that.

Nintega then felt something wet on the hand that he was covering Paimon's face with as he looked down at her with a raised eyebrow before taking his hand off of Paimon's face slightly to see that Paimon was licking his hand. Nintega groans in disgust as he let go of Paimon while shaking his hand.

TheNintegaGuy: Ugh! You're disgusting!!

He wipes his hand off of the fairy girl's spit before turning back to the Innkeeper.

Mr. Zhu: *sigh* Well, I was going to put up twenty thousand Mora as compensation, if you're willing.

Hearing that much Mora being said as a reward was more than enough to get Mona's attention as her eyes widened and she got somewhat excited too.

Mona: T-Twenty thousand...!

TheNintegaGuy: (Oh, that's right... How could I forget? She's as broke as a college student...) Someone getting a little excited about Mora, are we?

Nintega asked this with a playful raised eyebrow as Mona tried to play this off with the best excuse that she could muster.

Mona: N-No! I... I was just thinking that the person who finds this ring must be very lucky indeed, to be able to earn twenty thousand Mora just like that.

TheNintegaGuy: ...And you want it to be you. You were literally just describing an astrologist's pride a moment ago.

Mona: Ahem. Yes. Of course. Still... the owner's business has had it pretty hard. It must be a truly extraordinary ring, to be worth spending this much Mora to find. It wouldn't be right for us to leave like this, so let's help search for it. There may be other means we can employ besides astrology.

Paimon: Oh, Paimon knows where this is going.

Mona: Nintega, I know, I'll leave this one up to you! This is the first mission I'm giving you as your master!

Hearing that term, Nintega gains a bright grin on his face.

TheNintegaGuy: As you wish, Miss Megist- U-Uh, I mean... Sure thing, whatever you say Mona.

Paimon: *whisper* *playful sarcasm* Real smooth there, Casanova~

Nintega shot a disapproving glare back at Paimon.

TheNintegaGuy: *whisper* Oh, who asked you?

He gives her a flick to the nose before turning back to face Mona.

TheNintegaGuy: Anyways, since a slime was the culprit behind Mr. Zhu's stolen ring, we could use some good old Elemental Bait to lure it right to us.

Nintega then digs through his pockets to see if he had any Flaming Flowers or Mist Flowers kept, but unfortunately none were in his inventory.

TheNintegaGuy: *sigh* Sadly, I couldn't have predicted this and Master Diluc is the only one who had some.

Paimon nervously laughs as Nintega turns towards her to see that Paimon had some Elemental Bait already made which caused him to be a little surprised.

TheNintegaGuy: You still carried some of that? How did you- Don't tell me that when you get greedy you...

Paimon: Aw, don't sweat the small stuff. Just be happy that Paimon was able to save some!

Nintega sighs with a small smile before taking some of the Elemental Bait.

Mona: Seems like you already have a plan.

TheNintegaGuy: *chuckles* As expected of your new disciple, right? Anyways, let's go and see if we can find this ring.

Paimon: We'll be back in a jiffy!

Nintega and Paimon then briefly left the inn, so that they can walk a fair distance to place the bait for the Slimes to show up.

Paimon: The Elemental Bait's really strong - it will attract all of the Slimes in the area. Even if they're just slimes, they can be dangerous together, so we'd best prepare ourselves.

TheNintegaGuy: Tch! Prepared? Where's the fun in that?

Once they were a considerable distance away from the inn, Nintega wasted no time to toss the Elemental Bait down on the ground. Both him and Paimon waited about a minute and sure enough, a bunch of Slimes started bouncing their way towards them.

Nintega pulled out his sword before rushing into battle as he jumped up and hopped onto a giant Pyro Slime before using it to bounce himself up into the air. A Cryo Slime then tries shooting ice projectiles at him, but Nintega slices all of them with his sword. He puts some Anemo into his fist before slamming it down to the ground to create a gust of Anemo Magic that Swirled both the Cryo and Pryo Slime together causing a Melt reaction. This got rid of the Cryo Slime, but the Pyro Slime was only extinguished as it tried hopping over Nintega to squash him.

Nintega sees this coming easy as he does a backflip kick to send the Pyro Slime flying back into the air spinning out of control. He then leaps up into the air and with his sword, Nintega sends a flurry of slices that split the Pryo Slime up into small bits of goo that splatted onto the ground. Nintega then makes a superhero landing before putting his sword away as he stood with a cocky smirk.

TheNintegaGuy: See? Not even a challenge.

A twinge of pain shoots through his knee, causing him to hold it for a second with a hiss from the shock.

TheNintegaGuy: *whisper* D-Dang... Jordan was right. It really IS hard on the knees.

He then got back up the best that he could while walking a little funny. Both him and Paimon searched the goo before Paimon points down at some peculiar looking Slime essence.

Paimon: Found it! This must be the ring!

Nintega looks where Paimon was pointing and sure enough, after cleaning some of the goo away from the Slimes, a shiny ring came out as Nintega picked it up with a smile.

Paimon: It's so pretty. Paimon's sure it's worth a ton of-

TheNintegaGuy: Don't. Even. Think about it.

He interrupted, giving her a stern glare and making her nervous.

Paimon: ...Ah, Paimon wasn't having any bad thoughts! Let's bring the ring back to Mr. Zhu!

TheNintegaGuy: Not only will Mona get twenty thousand Mora for this... but hopefully this earns me the first bit of praise that I'll hear as her disciple.

Hearing that, Paimon places her fists on her hips with a smirk.

Paimon: Trying to already get on her good side~?

TheNintegaGuy: *blushes* Wh-What are you talking about? I want to learn some things from her, so... showing off how good and dedicated I am to this is only fair, right? Besides, at least I'm the one doing most of the work while you just float around yapping.

Paimon blows raspberries at Nintega as the two of them made their way back to the inn with the jade ring. When they got back, Mona and Mr. Zhu were already waiting for them and when Nintega showed Mr. Zhu then ring, he was definitely delighted.

Mr. Zhu: That's it, that's the one! I thought it was lost forever!

Mona: You actually found it. Not bad.

Hearing Mona praise him was enough to get Nintega's cheeks to turn pink as he couldn't help but get an embarrassed smile. Nintega then gives the ring to Mr. Zhu as the innkeeper places it in his pocket.

Mona: Mr. Zhu, you must take care of such precious things a bit better. You might not be so fortunate next time.

Mr. Zhu: You're absolutely right. How would I have faced my family if I had lost the 253rd ring my mother gave me?

Everyone just turned to Mr. Zhu and their eyes popped open so wide that they were all in pure shock, trying to process if they all heard that right.

TheNintegaGuy: W-W-W-Wha... T-Two... Hun... dred...?

Before anyone could let out any shocked screams, Mr. Zhu lets out a laugh.

Mr. Zhu: Ah, let me explain. My family owns three jade mines, and in order to ensure that I would find myself a good wife, my mother made so many jade accessories made as heirlooms. I think there may be five hundred of them.

TheNintegaGuy: What?! That's insane! You'd be rich selling all of those rings!

Mona: Why would you feel the need to set up an inn here if that's the case?

Mr. Zhu: Well, inheriting a family business too early unavoidably made things boring. Thank you, all the same. Here's the Mora as agreed. Please take it.

He presents them with a rather large sack of Mora.

Paimon: Then-

However, Nintega places a hand in front of Paimon.

TheNintegaGuy: Then Mona should take it!

His outburst shocked everyone in the general vicinity, especially Mona as she shook her head.

Mona: O-Oh, no. I-I couldn't possibly-

TheNintegaGuy: I'm sorry, Mona, but I'm not taking no for an answer.

Paimon: What?! But we did all of the work!

TheNintegaGuy: For whom exactly?

He asked, smirking to which Paimon stomped the air.

Paimon: Oh, come on! We're the ones that kicked some major slime butt! We deserve at least 90% of that Mora, 80% if we're being generous!

TheNintegaGuy: Paimon, you seem to forget. My friends and I are practically loaded back in Mondstadt due to our services as heroes, so Mora's kinda the last thing we need. Also, I'm Mona's disciple, which means that I should act like one.

Paimon crosses her arms while narrowing her eyes at Nintega.

Paimon: A disciple... or a bootlicker?

Nintega narrows his eyes back at Paimon.

TheNintegaGuy: I'm going to try my best to pretend that I didn't hear the second word.

For her sass, Nintega gave her yet another flick to her nose before turning back to Mona with the Mora on hand.

TheNintegaGuy: I really don't need this Mora, Mona, so go ahead. Take it.

He places the sack in her hand as she was still staring in astonishment, only resorting to blinking. Looking down at the sack and back up at Nintega's smile, Mona grows one of her own and takes the Mora.

Mona: Why, thank you, my disciple. If not for your generosity, I would have possibly deducted points for your companion trying to steal your new master's thunder.

TheNintegaGuy: *chuckles* Trust me. I have a habit of doing that to my friends, but in times like these, I make sure that I know my place.

Suddenly, the sound of loud growling from someone's stomach was heard as Nintega at first thought it was Paimon as he slowly turns his head to her with an annoyed glare.

TheNintegaGuy: *through clenched teeth* Paimon...

Paimon: I-It wasn't Paimon! Honest!

She was indeed telling the truth as Mona had placed a hand on her stomach and Mr. Zhu spoke up seeing this.

Mr. Zhu: Oh, right. You mustn't have eaten in days. I'm very sorry, I forgot that you have no...

Mona suddenly turns and interrupts Mr. Zhu to not reveal the last word in that sentence.

Mona: Aaaaaaah—! Shhhhahahahaha! That didn't happen! Forget it!

Trying her best to pretend that didn't happen like she said, she spun around towards Nintega and Paimon again, putting her bravado back on.

Mona: ...Hmph! Well, I suddenly feel that you have indeed contributed to our good fortune. I say we spend this money on treating you to a fine meal! If we travel north, we'll reach the Wangshu Inn. I hear that the food there is really good, so let's go try it out!

TheNintegaGuy: *smiles* Oh, thanks, Mo- I-I mean, Master!

Mona: *giggles* No need to thank me. I'm doing as a good master should!

She then jogs off as before Nintega could follow her, Paimon floats right in front of his face to block his path, looking extremely excited.

Paimon: Did she say she was treating us?! Is Paimon hearing things?!

Nintega shoots her a deadpan frown before walking right past her.

TheNintegaGuy: "Let's go after her." There, I said it for you.

Paimon: Let's go after her! For good food!

Paimon then flies after him and Mona, looking really hungry now as she couldn't wait to stuff her face in where Mona is taking her and Nintega.

When they reached the Wangshu Inn, they arrived a large building that was likely more than 10 stories high. As the name suggests, the Wangshu Inn was a lively place for people to stop and take breaks if they were on their way to Liyue or Mondstadt. They even had a restaurant as Mona and Nintega sat down at a table together while Paimon stayed afloat beside them.

TheNintegaGuy: This is actually my first time being at the Wangshu Inn. I'm actually interested in what they have to chow down on.

Paimon: Since it's Mona's treat, we can order whatever we want, right?

Mona: Of course. I am a most generous master, after all. But only if you can finish it all. Wasting food will simply not do.

TheNintegaGuy: *chuckles* Trust me, Master. When it comes to this little munchkin...

He thumbs over at Paimon.

TheNintegaGuy: I can guarantee that not even the tiniest morsel of food will still remain.

In retaliation, Paimon bites down on Nintega's thumb as the spiky-haired leader yelps in pain.

TheNintegaGuy: Again?! Very inappropriate! Bad Paimon!

Rolling his napkin up like a newspaper, he proceeded to give a few whacks to the top of Paimon's head.

TheNintegaGuy: No! No!

Paimon: H-Hey! Paimon's not a dog!

TheNintegaGuy: Well, you certainly act the part!

Before they could continue more of their tomfoolery, the waitress serving them walked up to them.

Yuhua: Excuse me, what would you like to order?

Taking a look at the menu, Nintega took a moment to decide what he wanted.

TheNintegaGuy: Hmm... what about these Golden Shrimp Balls?

Yuhua: These are made using large, succulent shrimp wrapped in crispy-fried potatoes. They have an amazing texture.

TheNintegaGuy: *smiles* Then I'll take that along with a Super Magnificent Pizza!

Paimon: Ooh! Ooh! What about this Salted Pork Soup?

Yuhua: This is a favorite among our regulars. Bamboo shoots, meat, and ham are cooked together, creating a richly flavored soup. Pour a few spoonfuls into each bowl of rice you eat - you never get enough of it!

TheNintegaGuy: Huh... Why not? Sounds good actually! I'll take all of them!

Mona heard this with extreme shock that Nintega ordered three whole meals for himself.

Mona: A-All of them? We only have three... No, two and a half people? Isn't that too much food?

Paimon: That's not how you count it! Besides, Paimon hasn't even ordered yet!

She takes a look at the menu as well.

Paimon: Squirrel Fish, Jueyun Chili Chicken, and Jewelry Soup, please!

Yuhua: Sure! And is there anything else you would like to order, ma'am?

She asked Mona who still sat in shock and awe from the amount of food ordered.

Mona: I-I'd just like to ask, how much do the current dishes cost in total?

Bringing a finger to her chin, the waitress thought over the expenses for their order.

Yuhua: Um, around twenty thousand Mora.

Mona was utterly stupefied to hear that. The costs for the food... were the exact same amount they just gained not moments ago! Such a coincidence left Mona silent for a moment as her brain was trying to piece itself back together from having been blown. A sheepish grin crawls onto her face and she closes her eyes, keeping her head facing away from the waitress.

Mona: Then... Uh, I-I'll just have some vegetarian noodles, please.

With a nod, Yuhua wrote down her order.

Yuhua: Alright. A bowl of vegetarian noodles, was it? Please wait a moment, we will serve you shortly.

When the food arrives, Nintega and Paimon gorged themselves on a feast fit for a king while Mona dines on vegetarian noodles. When they were done, Nintega and Paimon looked satisfied with all that they've ate.

TheNintegaGuy: *sigh* Next time we're on our way to Liyue... we're coming here to eat, no questions asked.

Nintega then notices one more Shrimp Ball on a plate, but so did Paimon as they both eyed it with excitement.

TheNintegaGuy/Paimon: Dibs!/Mine!

Hearing them both say that at the same time was enough for them to glare at each other as they both picked up some chopsticks and rushed over to try to get the last Shrimp Ball. They both got it at the same time, but Nintega had better hold against the shrimp as Paimon was struggling to take it from him, making Nintega smirk. Paimon then looks ahead of Nintega and points ahead of him to distract him.

Paimon: What's that?!

TheNintegaGuy: Huh?

Nintega fell for this, but he did it intentionally as Paimon was still failing to take the shrimp from Nintega as no matter how much she tried to move, she couldn't take it out of Nintega's grip. Nintega looks behind himself for a second longer before picking up the Shrimp Ball and tries to throw Paimon away, but she keeps her hold on the Shrimp Ball no matter how much Nintega moved. Their movement caused their chopsticks to break and it sent the Shrimp Ball flying into the air. Paimon then quickly hops over Nintega's head and opens her mouth wide and the Shrimp Ball instantly falls into her mouth as Nintega deadpanned at her.

TheNintegaGuy: Show off...

Paimon: Paimon had it right from the start~ *giggles*

Her spikey-haired leader friend simply pouted before Paimon looked in Mona's direction. She noticed the considerable amount of food between her and Nintega against the astrologist's singular bowl of vegetarian noodles and decided to bring it up with him.

Paimon: *whisper* Paimon's been thinking about something since we started eating...

TheNintegaGuy: *whisper* The fact that she only ordered one bowl?

Paimon: *whisper* Is it... because she actually doesn't have money?

TheNintegaGuy: *whisper* *chuckles* Why do you think I gave her the bag of Mora?

Mona: I heard that!

She shouted, shocking both Nintega and Paimon who swiftly turned to her.

Mona: I said I was treating. How could I be rattled by something as mundane as Mora?! An astrologist's mind is set on studying the stars. Being so easily disturbed by such banal matters would hamper my judgment. Especially the act of overly gratifying oneself using Mora. It is both vulgar...

Another loud growl from Mona's stomach could be heard and she looks down sheepishly now.

Mona: ...and dangerous.

Scratching her head, Paimon looks back at Nintega.

Paimon: So not eating the dishes we ordered is also part of an astrologist's pride? Paimon doesn't get it. But it feels kinda bad that we only got to feast...

Nintega looks at Paimon before smiling at Mona as he stands up with a proud smile while putting his fists on his hips.

TheNintegaGuy: I'm a culinary expert. I've whipped up some meals for an entire banquet, so I'm going to do the same for you. In fact, after eating some, I know exactly the dish that I can cook for you, Mona. Wait here.

He stands up from his seat and with Paimon following, heads up to the upper floors of the Wangshu Inn and soon finds the kitchen. Nintega gains a smirk as he runs down to the kitchen, but Paimon felt a little concerned.

Paimon: Um... Don't you think you should ask the owner of that kitchen before trying to cook something yourself in there?

TheNintegaGuy: It's not like there's a whole team of chefs in here. Besides, looking around the area, I know exactly what to make. What better meal to fill you up than some pizza?

Paimon shrugged her shoulders.

Paimon: Sticky Honey Roast?

Nintega then shoots her a deadpan glare.

TheNintegaGuy: That was rhetorical...

Before he could begin preparing Mona's food however, the Wangshu Innkeeper who went by the name of Huai'an came around the corner and noticed them.

Huai'an: Hello, how may I help you?

TheNintegaGuy: Oh, sorry for our sudden arrival, sir, but we just wanted to use the kitchen for a while.

Paimon: Yeah, we're making a special dish for a friend.

Huai'an: Ah, I see. In that case, sure. As long as you've prepared your own ingredients, feel free to use the kitchen.

Nintega pumped a fist hearing the approval of the Innkeeper that he can make a dish for Mona using the Inn's kitchen.

TheNintegaGuy: Awesome!

Huai'an: If I may add one more thing... You must be quite well versed in the art of cooking, yes?

TheNintegaGuy: *chuckles* I've made meals for my friends several times. Mostly just pancakes and pizza, but even so, they still end up more than delicious when I'm the one making them.

Huai'an: Haha, talented indeed. Actually, I have a small suggestion to make... From your clothes, you're most likely not from around these parts. But since you've come to Liyue, would you like to try making Liyue-style cuisine?

Hearing this made both Nintega and Paimon curious as the Innkeeper pulled out a recipe.

Huai'an: I have a recipe for Golden Crab with me. It's a Yue cuisine classic. Crab meat that's been rolled in flour, deep fried, and then pan-fried together with ginger and garlic. When finally plated, the crab appears to be lying on gold.

The description was enough to make Paimon drool over how tasty that sounds.

Paimon: Golden... Crab~!

TheNintegaGuy: Hmmm... I'm not really a big seafood fan. Also, learning a new dish might be a bit much for Mona's sake.

Paimon: Golden Crab, Nintega! Golden Crab!

She kept cheering this over and over which annoyed Nintega as he rolled his eyes before giving into Paimon's wishes.

TheNintegaGuy: Okay, fine! If it'll make you shut up... I'll try and make some Golden Crab...

Paimon: Heh-heh. Then let's get to it! With your skills in the kitchen, this'll be a cinch!

The Innkeeper then hands Nintega the recipe as he takes a look at it before walking down to the kitchen. He takes a look around before grabbing a cutting board and some flour. He then rushes over to grab the crab meat and even some eggs in a bowl too. The camera cuts to the front of both Nintega and Paimon as the fearless leader smirks before reaching his hands down offscreen to fix the recipe that he was given.

He then pulls out a frying pan as he places it down in front of himself, cracks some eggs, and proceeds to fry the crab meat while also adding some spices for the flavor. Paimon was watching Nintega cook the entire time and she couldn't help, but get both excited of how it was turning out and even after several meals, Paimon felt hungry from just looking at how the Golden Crab was turning out.

Eventually, Nintega took a close look at his work before smirking as he brought up a spatula, picked up the dish before placing it down on a plate as the delicious smell wafted its way to both of their noses as they both sigh.

TheNintegaGuy: I know I said that I'm not fond of seafood, but damn that smells amazing! All that's left is to-

He was getting ready to pick up the plate, but not before noticing Paimon with a fork, trying to sneak in a bite. Nintega glares at her before smacking her hand, knocking the fork out of her hand in the process.

Paimon: Oww! *murmurs* Meanie...

She rubbed her hand with an obviously fake looking sad frown.

TheNintegaGuy: When are you going to learn that every piece of food is not intended for you to eat...?

Paimon: Come on! It's a new variety that neither of us have tried yet! Beats having to eat Stick Honey Roast all of the time in Mondstadt!

TheNintegaGuy: ...That's literally the only thing that you order on the menu. Meanwhile, I've been loving Noelle's Lighter-than-Air pancakes, Amber's Champion Steaks, or even Eula's Stormcrest Pies! And those are goooood!

Paimon: They... They are?

TheNintegaGuy: They sure are! Look, tell you what, Paimon. If you keep your grubby little hands off of this Golden Crab like a good girl, then MAYBE... I'll order you those foods when we get back to Mondstadt.

Paimon puts a finger to her chin thinking about that offer for a second while looking down at the Golden Crab. Nintega deadpans at her contemplating before holding the same recipe up in his hand.

TheNintegaGuy: ...I can also still make the Golden Crab for later too.

Hearing that, Paimon then nods vigorously.

Paimon: Alright, deal!

TheNintegaGuy: *nods* Good. Now, let's go take this Golden Crab down to Mona. I don't want to keep my esteemed astrologist waiting and famished.

Paimon gives Nintega a small smirk as she crosses her arms.

Paimon: Your astrologist?

TheNintegaGuy: I-I mean... Our! O-Or nobody's! Sh-She doesn't belong to anyone... Th-Though in my defense, I am her disciple so... I kind of have a small right to say that... N-Not romantically, mind you!

Paimon: *sarcasm* Suuuuure~

Ignoring her with a roll of his eyes, Nintega took the Golden Crab delicacy and carefully brought it downstairs and eventually to Mona who still sat in her seat while waiting. She sees the both of them coming and her eyes bugged out for a second until they resettled as she sighed.

Mona: There's no need to spend all that effort on me. I'm not in dire need of food...

The two of them then heard Mona's stomach growl once again as Nintega was concerned while Paimon just wasn't convinced.

Mona: I am a little hungry... but it's not a big deal.

TheNintegaGuy: No way! I'm not letting you starve yourself over just one meal! Here, your special order, ma'am!

Nintega places the Golden Crab down on the table right in front of Mona as the smell of the new delicacy was enough to amaze her as well.

Mona: Th-This aroma is... W-Wow, it's incredible!

She then noticed how she was acting as she turned her head away from the dish to try to not smell it at all.

Mona: N-No! I shouldn't! Eating overpriced, fancy foods is most uncivilized and dangerous to indulge yourself in!

Nintega snorts with an eye roll before he brings out a fork and knife and cuts part of the Golden Crab before picking it up with the fork. Mona was still looking away before she smelled something delicious again and she opened her eyes to find Nintega holding a piece of the Golden Crab up to her as she flinched in some surprise.

Mona: Wha... What do you think you're doing?

TheNintegaGuy: I told you that I'm not going to let you starve yourself, didn't I? You can't get filled from just salads and noodles alone. Some protein and carbs are what get you through the day.

Mona looked at the Golden Crab again and she puffed her cheeks out, not wanting to give in because of her astrologist pride as she turned her head away again.

Mona: Ahem. I-I have lived on not eating for days. I shouldn't need to trouble myself by indulging in more than what I need. B-Besides, there is a small chance it may not even suit my tastes.

Paimon: This coming from the same astrologist who predicted where and when Nintega would meet her...

Nintega sat beside Mona and once again placed the fork near her face.

TheNintegaGuy: Come on, just try it! Things that don't seem like they go together actually make a pretty good couple. I-I mean, food. Give it a taste. I promise, you'll love it.

The heavenly aroma of the crab slowly tore away Mona's resolve, making it harder for her to resist. Her growling stomach wasn't helping either as it sensed the food's presence and growled even louder. With her face full of sweat, and with her eyes darting about, whatever remained of her willpower washed away the second she let out a sigh.

Mona: *sigh* ...Fine. Since my disciple has put in so much time and effort, I must – with great difficulty – accept.

Slowly, her head turned in Nintega's direction and in blistering lightning speed, she chomped onto the piece of crab and aimed her face away to hide her chewing. The more she did, the more the taste overwhelmed her as she almost fell over backwards in her chair from how delicious it was. With a gulp, she swallowed down the food as she stared down with glittery eyes at the rest of the meal with Nintega and Paimon giving her a sly smirk the whole time.

Mona: ...Ooh! This Golden Crab is too delicious! I have never eaten anything this good in my life!

Nintega brightly smiled at Mona's expression while Paimon had her fists on her hips, still smirking. When Mona took notice of both of their expressions, she tried to hide her true emotions once again.

Mona: Ah, uh, I mean... *cough* I never knew that my disciple was this skilled. As your master, I am most comforted.

TheNintegaGuy: *chuckles* I knew you'd love it. Speaking of which...

He cuts another piece of the crab and picks it up with the fork once more holding it up near Mona's mouth.

TheNintegaGuy: Can't let it go to waste. Especially since you love it so much~

Mona sees this and tilts her head in confusion.

Mona: What... are you up to?

TheNintegaGuy: Well, I figured that as your disciple, it would be most prudent if I fed you myself, right?

Paimon deadpans at Nintega with crossed arms.

Paimon: Yeah, right! You just want to-

With his free hand, Nintega grabs Paimon and tosses her away before she could embarrass him any further.

TheNintegaGuy: *through clenched teeth* Show some respect... Exactly what I was thinking, Paimon!

When he offered her some more crab, Mona's cheeks turned pink and a look of embarrassment could be made out on her features.

Mona: I-Is... Is this really necessary, my disciple? I can assure you that-

TheNintegaGuy: I'm sure you can, but I just wanna be a good disciple and feed my master. Now, open up~

He teased, moving the food closer to her face. Like last time, she tried resisting, but her growling stomach smashed that with a hammer almost instantly. She reluctantly, but slowly opened her mouth wide enough for Nintega to feed her once again. Nintega had a small blush of his own as he couldn't believe that he was actually feeding Mona and she allowed it. He kept this up as he slowly, but surely, fed Mona every last bite of the Golden Crab. After some time had passed, none of it remained as Mona sat while holding her satisfied stomach with a small smile.

Mona: *happy sigh* I see that it's no boast to call them Liyue's delicacies. I suppose it wasn't too much to spend all this Mora on...

She looked down at the table as she couldn't help but feel grateful for Nintega's act of kindness. Like the one earlier, she gained a small blush, but this time, it felt... different, and she couldn't put her finger on why. Her silence made Nintega feel a little concerned as he scooted closer to her.

TheNintegaGuy: You okay there, Mona?

His voice managed to snap her out of her trance and her blush disappeared in an instant.

Mona: A-Ah, it's nothing! Nothing at all. Now that we've eaten and drank our fill, we should be off.

She stands up and looks over in the direction of where north is.

Mona: If we travel north from here, we should reach the Stone Gate, and from there, we will be within the boundaries of Mondstadt.

Her gaze then took on one of longing, sparkling from the thought she was having.

Mona: What deep mysteries shall we acquire knowledge of? *chuckles* I'm looking forward to it.

TheNintegaGuy: We best be on our way then. If we leave now, we should be at Mondstadt by sunset.

All three of them then made their departure from Wangshu Inn as they all began to head back towards Mondstadt to continue finding the box that Mona was looking for.

Their trip took quite a while as they eventually reached the Stone Gate that was the border to Mondstadt. They all stopped to catch their breath from all of the walking or floating in Paimon's case as Nintega pulls out a water bottle and drinks it.

Mona: Phew. That was tiring. But we're finally in Mondstadt. The quest to plumb the wondrous depths of knowledge is indeed arduous.

Paimon: Paimon's not tired.

She said, crossing her arms smugly. Gaining a deadpan look, Mona turns to the floating fairy girl.

Mona: Ugh, that's because you float.

Paimon: Well, it doesn't look like an astrologist is that amazing either.

TheNintegaGuy: Excuse me?! You didn't know a single word that I said about astrology when you followed me all the way to Liyue! You've got no right to talk, emergency food!

Paimon: H-Hey! When are you gonna stop calling Paimon that?!

TheNintegaGuy: When you grow a brain three times the size of your head...

Mona: *chuckles* That would explain her many unrealistic fantasies about astrology.

As they were conversing, they were all suddenly approached by a group of men as one of them got their attention.

Tyler: Are you also resting your feet here?

Paimon: Who are you?

Tyler: Oh, my brothers and I are all merchants. We just finished doing business in Liyue, and we're preparing to head back to Mondstadt. You look rather tired. The cart we hired will be coming in a while – what say you to coming along for a ride?

Nintega and Paimon gain a confused look from this as they turned to each other and Paimon shrugged her shoulders, not knowing what to answer with as even she can tell that this was kind of sketchy. Nonetheless, Nintega answered the merchants.

TheNintegaGuy: I guess so... My feet are kinda killing me from walking miles.

Tyler: Hehe, let's go then. We can make conversation along the way, the more the merrier.

Before Nintega could take another step though, Mona stepped in front of both him and Paimon, gaining a somewhat serious expression in the process.

Mona: There's no need. Now shoo. Get out of our way.

She commanded in an authoritative tone, confusing both Nintega and Paimon as well as the merchants.

Tyler: Eh? Miss... Is there something wrong?

Mona: Cease your pretensions, bandit. Picking up people on the road who appear vulnerable, robbing them blind once they've gotten on the cart, and then taking them to some archon-forsaken place – is that your deal?

At first, Nintega found this to be a bit strange, but the more he thought, the more it made sense. These guys did seem to appear out of thin air and conveniently offered the three of them a ride to Mondstadt when they most needed it, so that practically screamed shadiness.

TheNintegaGuy: Bandits?! I should've known...

Further proof of this could be found in the man's stuttering voice as it sounded like Mona hit the bullseye on what they were planning.

Tyler: W-What are you saying? We came over here to make conversation and this is how we're rewarded? With insults? If you don't want to get on, don't! *murmurs* Crazy girl...

He turns his back to the trio, but Mona wasn't quite done with them as she further provides proof of their intentions.

Mona: Well then, shall I tell you now which objects you have on you that are stolen? If you have any quibbles, we can bring people to corroborate what I've said, and all will come to light. If I lose, I'll pay you twenty thousand Mora. But if I win, then you'll be eating prison rations in Liyue Harbor tonight.

A bead of sweat rolled down the fake merchant's cheek as Mona was definitely right on what she was saying. So accurate that it scared the men a little too.

Mona: How about it? If you're real legitimate businessmen, there's nothing to fear, is there?

This really got under the man's skin as he turned back to her, frowning even harder.

Tyler: You... You! You've pushed it too far, brat! I don't know how you found out, but as long as we get rid of you, no one will have to know!

[There should be a GIF or video here. Update the app now to see it.]

The sound of a weapon being summoned could be heard before Nintega appeared between Mona and the newly revealed bandit as he glared up at him hard.

TheNintegaGuy: *through clenched teeth* Over. My. Dead. Body! Touch her and I'm gonna-

However, Mona places a hand in front of Nintega making him turn towards the astrologist surprised.

TheNintegaGuy: Mona?

Mona: *smirks* Don't fret, it's just a few bandits.

She then aimed that same smirk over at Paimon.

Mona: You said earlier that there was nothing amazing about astrologists... Well then, this is a good time to show you what Nintega's master can do.

With a wave of her hand, a book catalyst appeared beside her as she got into a fighting stance. The bandits all pulled out weapons before charging to try to assault Mona, but she made her hand glow blue with Hydro magic and a rune appeared right in the middle of the bandits that splashed them all with Hydro magic as they each got sent flying.

One of the bandits quickly got up and proceeded to charge at Mona, who saw this coming out of the corner of her eye. She then vanishes away, shocking the bandit before right in front of it, some water sprouted from beneath them and summon a phantom of Mona's face taunting them. Afterwards, it splashed the bandit with Hydro magic as well.

Tyler: *groans* Where did that girl go?! I've had just about enough of her strange sorcery!

However, he suddenly slipped onto his back again, surprising the other bandits as beneath them, a jet of water was swiftly moving around their feet so fast that they all couldn't see this coming and slipped back onto the ground as well. Mona pops back up from the ground as she had cloaked herself to appear as water. Paimon was watching this in shock while Nintega was astonished.

TheNintegaGuy: I told you she's awesome!

He said with starry eyes as Mona was getting ready to walk back to the two, but not before she could hear the bandits yelling from behind her to attack her once more. All Mona could do was sigh in response to this blatantly bad attempt to surprise her.

Mona: I predicted as much...

She then makes her entire hand glow blue and she summons what looked to be sparkling waves as she quickly swings her arm behind herself.

Mona: Fate is upon you!

She then casts a field that looked to be of a starry sky as this field carried all of the bandits up into the air and constellations appeared on them too. When the field Mona casted disappeared, it's revealed that all of the bandits were trapped in large bubbles of Hydro magic. None of them could break free which made Mona smirk as a flick of Hydro magic was all that it took from her to pop the bubbles... and send the bandits flying at a rock wall.

Groaning from the immense pain, the bandits all stumbled to their feet and dug into their pockets. Taking out some smoke bombs, they simultaneously threw them onto the ground and disappeared into a puff of smoke, leaving our three protagonists alone again. The astrologist dusted her hands off and turned back to her subordinate with a smirk.

Mona: Hmph, what did you think? Did that satisfy your expectations?

Paimon: She was able to see right through those bandits like she was reading their minds!

Mona: Such things are elementary for an astrologist. Lies are worthless before astrology. Destiny and truth are written in the stars. Though it may take more time to garner the specifics, I can read the gist of a situation at a glance.

She said with a proud smirk. However, Nintega just couldn't help, but stare at Mona with a slightly lovestruck expression and a blush.

TheNintegaGuy: Wow... You're pretty~

He then realizes what he just said out loud as he tried to reinterpret that comment.

TheNintegaGuy: S-S-Smart! P-Pretty smart! I-I'm totally learning a lot from you just by traveling with you!

Paimon was able to see right through that lame correction as she aimed a smug smirk at him with her fists on her hips.

Paimon: *sarcasm* Great save there, Casanova~

TheNintegaGuy: F-For whom?! Who's a Casanova?!

Paimon: You know~!

She teased which promptly got Nintega to pinch both of her cheeks and pull on them just to annoy her.

Paimon: H-Hey! Let go of Paimon's face!

Nintega does so with a smirk of his own as he got his share of annoying Paimon as the floating girl glares at him before turning to Mona.

Paimon: Still, it looks like you hit some major bumps on the road.

Mona: That's because Teyvat's stars can only display the fates and truth's of "this world." Anything related to Nintega becomes like a fog that even I cannot penetrate. That is why we must meet that successor. With our knowledge combined, I might be able to gain new insight into your fate.

TheNintegaGuy: This trip's been exciting ever since the beginning, so even now, I'm still curious and thrilled to see what wonders lie ahead!

Mona: Ha! Well, whatever the case, you've got everything to gain from this trip. Alright, I'm rested. Let's get this journey to Mondstadt over with!

Paimon: *sigh* If only we had a cart...

Both Nintega and Mona shot her suspicious eyebrows.

TheNintegaGuy & Mona: I thought you weren't tired!

When they both said that simultaneously, Nintega and Mona turned to each other with some astonishment before they both gained embarrassed blushes while looking away from each other.

It was nearly the end of the evening as Nintega, Mona, and Paimon traveled all the way to the bridge of Mondstadt. Mona observes the area before summoning another rune and when she takes a look at it, she nods before making it disappear.

Mona: Are you ready? Don't shame your master now – we're about to meet that successor.

TheNintegaGuy: Of course, but... Despite studying astrology... I can't exactly read or tell fortunes like you can.

Mona: I guess... Wait, no! It won't do if you have no idea at all. Even if you are a fake disciple.

TheNintegaGuy: Well, that's exactly why I've been looking forward to meeting you in the first place. Perhaps maybe you can teach me a thing or two about the techniques you use.

Mona: We have a rule that forbids us from teaching outsiders, but I suppose...

She looks away with a small blush thinking of how much Nintega has helped her so far and it would be wrong for her to deny any sort of wish that he wanted from her in return.

Mona: I suppose I could teach you.

Nintega smiles brightly from this that the astrologist in front of him is going to actually teach her some of her methods.

TheNintegaGuy: Taking notes already. Go on. Explain master.

Mona: My astrology is based on hydromancy, and as the name suggests, I use the reflections in water bodies to observe the true starry sky. Allow me to demonstrate. Watch closely now.

She began the demonstration by summoning a hydromancy rune and turning the outer circle of symbols as if it were the dial on a safe.

Mona: From the present station and movement of the stars... I see, so that successor is a young... female... Knight of Favonius.

Paimon: Doesn't that sound like... Lisa?

She asked Nintega, turning to him.

TheNintegaGuy: I wouldn't exactly label Lisa as "young" since she's pretty knowledgeable herself. Though we've met most Knights of Favonius, so there's a likely chance that this person is someone that we know.

The rune Mona was working on then disappeared as she stared off into space with an unsure look.

Mona: We will meet her presently. Well, that's all the information we need.

Nintega was a little surprised as he was expecting an explanation in greater detail than that.

TheNintegaGuy: Wait, that's it? I know how it works and all, but I haven't even practiced the full concept of it all yet.

Mona: *sigh* It seems that even basic astrology can't be grasped in one go. Never mind. I'll explain in detail later - she's here.

Nintega and Paimon turned around and the person that was approaching them was definitely someone that they weren't expecting to see all day. It was the young Spark Knight of the Knights of Favonius, Klee. She runs up to them while waving both hands at them.

Klee: Wow, it's you, Mister Hero Knight Nintega! And Paimon too! You're back! Big brother Jordan said you and Paimon were out for the day!

TheNintegaGuy: Oh, hey there, Klee!

He waves back at her however, Mona points down at Klee.

Mona: That's her! The successor to great knowledge!

Nintega and Paimon both shoot Mona strange looks before looking back down at Klee as even they found that to be a bit hard to believe.

TheNintegaGuy: Wait... Klee's the successor?

The young Spark Knight was also confused as she brought a finger to her chin in thought.

Klee: Successor...?

Mona: That's right. I am the astrologist who has plumbed the depths of the ocean of stars. Surely, you have long calculated my arrival as well.

Klee: An ocean of stars? What's that? Does it have fish in it?

Admittedly, Nintega found her childlike ignorance to be adorable as he snickers a bit quietly.

Mona: Fish...? No, don't play dumb. Is this some kind of game?

Klee: I should be the one saying that! I didn't get what you said at all!

TheNintegaGuy: Yeah... This is going nowhere pretty fast...

Mona: But my predictions can't be mistaken... Well, let's make sure. Your mother's name is Alice, isn't it?

Klee: That's right! Oh, so you're Mommy's friend! But she's gone very far away...

Mona: My readings told me as much. But before she left, she must have imparted her mystical arts to you, surely?

Klee was still not catching on as she just rubbed her head.

Klee: Mystical... arts? I... don't get it. Mommy only taught me to make Jumpty Dumpties.

Paimon: So Klee's mother is the friend and rival to Mona's teacher?

Mona: Yes. As well-versed in astrology as she was, my master knew only  astrology. Alice, on the other hand, was skilled in a great many other mystical fields.

Paimon: Well, Klee's so young, so even if she heard this deep knowledge, she might not have understood.

TheNintegaGuy: Hold on... How old are you, Klee?

Klee: I'm 8.

TheNintegaGuy: Yeah... If she's 8 now then I doubt that she would remember all of that when she was the age of a kindergartener.

Mona: Yes. It seems she has inherited the blood, but not the knowledge... what a miscalculation. There can be no contest like this.

TheNintegaGuy: Maybe we should just go straight to the point instead.

He then walks over to Klee and kneels down to her level.

TheNintegaGuy: Klee, Mona said something about your mother that involved a fifty-year agreement and a special kind of box. Do you remember anything about that?

Hearing that, Klee finally understood what they were talking about as she nodded vigorously.

Klee: Ooh, I know this one! So you're here for that box. I'll look. Wait here!

She then takes off her backpack and dumps all of the contents out, surprising Nintega and Paimon as they were hoping that there were no Jumpty Dumpties that she packed. Luckily, she had none as Klee started searching the stuff that she spilled on the ground.

Klee: Hmm... Not this one... Hmm... Hm... Or this one... No, no, it's not this one either...

She then suddenly remembered something as she hops back up on her feet.

Klee: Ah! I remember now. I buried it together with my new treasure, at Windrise!

Nintega got a slightly nervous look as he remembered that Jordan told him about his moments that he had with Klee and the little girl was sneaky enough to hide explosives anywhere in Mondstadt.

TheNintegaGuy: ...It's a bomb, isn't it?

However, that goes ignored as Klee quickly turns around and sprints off.

Klee: Wait for me. I'll be right back!

TheNintegaGuy: K-Klee, hold on! Your belongings!

Paimon: Yeah, don't you need the things in your pack?

Mona then crouches down on her knees to try and pick up all of the things that Klee dropped out of her backpack.

Mona: I'll help her pack these things back in. You go after her. *sigh* Looking at how rash she is, I worry for the box.

TheNintegaGuy: Don't worry, as long as an adult like myself is with her, I'll make sure it's undamaged.

Mona nods as Nintega and Paimon run to follow Klee down all the way to Windrise. After a few minutes, they reached the vast open field that rested beside the large iconic tree and it didn't take much for them to find the small bit of red that was Klee. When they got closer however, they also saw a large, strange looking bulbous red flower, one that Nintega felt like he'd seen before. Regardless of this, he still approached Klee who saw him coming and smiled.

Klee: We're heeere! This is it. Let's dig it up!

TheNintegaGuy: (*sigh* Is this what Jordan has to deal with? She's a sweetheart, don't get me wrong, but... it's gotta be a bit much for him sometimes.)

He thought before taking a closer look at the strange red flower and the moment that Nintega saw it shake a little, his eyes widened and he points at it.

TheNintegaGuy: Klee! That's a Dendro Slime!

Klee: It can't be. I put a sign here. There's no mistake-

Just before she could finish, Nintega's suspicions were proven true for the large flower popped right out of the ground and a large Dendro slime now stood, frightening Klee as she didn't see that coming.

Klee: Argh! Dendro Slimes!

TheNintegaGuy: Told you!

Paimon: *sigh* We can talk later, let's take 'em out first.

TheNintegaGuy: That should be easy enough. Dendro Slimes are extremely flammable.

Paimon: What?! But you don't have a Pyro Vision!

TheNintegaGuy: There's one of us who does.

He said looking down at Klee who was hiding behind Nintega's leg. She looks back up at him a little confused as Nintega smiled down at her.

TheNintegaGuy: Klee! If you have any, throw all of the Jumpty Dumpties that you have in your pockets!

Klee: Wait, really?!

She asked, looking a little excited and while a small drop of sweat rolled down Nintega's cheek, he nodded nonetheless. Klee cheers before taking out a couple of bombs from her pockets and Nintega grabbed Paimon so that they could get out of the way of the explosions. They both ran and hit the deck as a couple of loud bangs were heard offscreen with a large fiery explosion.

When they looked back, they saw Klee had easily burnt the Dendro Slimes into a crisp as they walked back over to her. They see Klee digging up something out of the ground as it was revealed to be the box that Mona was looking for.

Klee: Found it! It's this box!

Paimon wipes her head in relief that the box was somehow untouched.

Paimon: Phew! Glad it wasn't damaged in the explosions.

TheNintegaGuy: Same here. I'd hate to disappoint Mona if the box had turned out to be destroyed.

Paimon: Because you like her~

TheNintegaGuy: Wha- N-No! I-It would ruin my opportunity to learn from her if this went destroyed after she's been looking for it all this time!

Paimon: Pfft! Excuses, excuses, excuses! That's all you can come up with.

Klee: Uhh... what are you guys talking about?

She asked, innocently as Nintega waved both of his hands with a small blush on his face.

TheNintegaGuy: A-Absolutely nothing, Klee! Come on, w-we shouldn't keep Mona waiting any longer!

They all head back to the bridge to deliver the box to Mona and when they arrived, she was sitting down on the side of the bridge, reading a book that she likely found from picking up all of the Klee's belongings. When she sees them coming, she closes the book before standing up.

Mona: You're back at last. The wait was exceedingly dull. I had intended to read a book to pass the time, but this one was just some ridiculous diary. Nothing of note in it at all. It dropped from Klee's backpack, so I thought it might contain some ancient knowledge, but... Never mind that. Did you find the box?

Klee: We did. It's in perfect shape!

Nintega reveals the box in one of his hands as the moment Mona lays eyes on it, she snatches it with an excited look before immediately opening it. However, what came next... was a little bit of a disappointment.

Mona: That's wonderful - Wait a moment... W-Why isn't it locked? And... why is it empty?!

She said in complete shock as both Nintega and Paimon found this to be quite the surprise too as the box that they have been searching for had nothing in it.

Paimon: Ehhh?!

TheNintegaGuy: E-Empty?! I-If it's empty... Klee, why did you bury it?

Klee: Well... it's because I borrowed this box to store my treasures.

Mona: Borrowed?!

Klee: But since you're here for the box, I took all my treasures out. That's why it's empty.

Mona: You used it to store your things?! T-Then where are the original contents of the box? That's what I want.

Klee: Oh, you wanted the thing that used to be in the box? ...You should've said so.

As much as he didn't want to, Nintega couldn't help but sigh before rubbing his face.

TheNintegaGuy: Klee... at least tell us that you didn't break it.

Klee: No! It's not broken at all!

Her reassurance made them sigh in relief.

Klee: It's the book in her hand.

She points to the book Mona had, making the esteemed astrologist look at it with a purely shocked expression.

Mona: Whaaaaaat?! T-This... So this book, this diary... is that hag's... It's her diary from 50 years ago?! The thing she wanted back after 50 years was the dark history of her youth?

Panic started to settle in as Mona paced all about with her hands on her head.

Mona: Ah, I'm finished! No wonder... No wonder that old woman said that I should not look at it no matter what, or she'd rip me to shreds...

Not really understanding what was going on, Klee gazed at the ground, looking somewhat saddened.

Klee: Am... Am I in trouble?

Nintega reassures Klee by walking over and patting her head.

TheNintegaGuy: No, no. You did nothing wrong, Klee. Mona's... just a little bit shocked from what happened. Why don't you go find Jordan and see if he wants to make more of those Jumpty Dumpties of yours?

Klee lightened up from this a bit.

Klee: Oooh! That's a great idea! I actually just showed Big Brother Jordan how to make some yesterday!

However, she then realized something as she looked over to see that it was almost nighttime which made her get all mopey again.

Klee: Although, I should probably wait until tomorrow... Master Jean doesn't want me out of Mondstadt too late at night.

TheNintegaGuy: Well, you've done all that you've can. Go on and get some rest, Klee.

He said, patting her head again and making her giggle as she hugs Nintega before running back to Mondstadt. With Klee gone, that just left one last problem to deal with as Nintega and Paimon turned back to Mona who was still panicking on what she was going to do now that the contents of the box were only revealed to be a diary.

TheNintegaGuy: ...Well, this turned out to be quite the conclusion, eh?

Paimon: Umm... Well, if you don't say anything, your master won't find out, will she?

Nintega deadpans at Paimon from that question.

TheNintegaGuy: Have you learned nothing? Astrology is a fortune tool that can see past deception. It'd be pointless to try.

Mona: *sigh* After having spent all my Mora to come to Mondstadt, not only have I gained no knowledge, but now I can't return... How did it come to this...

Paimon: That's so sad... Maybe you could forget everything in that book... and then go back?

Mona: That's... *sigh* too difficult. And even if I wanted to stay in Mondstadt, it would be...

TheNintegaGuy: *chuckles* Expensive~?

Mona: Yes- I mean no! You really have no way with words.

TheNintegaGuy: Hmm... in that case, I guess you've got no choice, but to go back to your master~

He said in a teasing voice, causing Mona to blush again.

Mona: S-Stop talking about it! I... I guess I'll have to... I'll just have to stay in Mondstadt temporarily. Once that old crone's reached the end of her days, I'll be free.

TheNintegaGuy: Sorry to nitpick, but... I feel as though you used "temporarily" incorrectly there.

Mona: But what will I do about my astrology research? ...No, wait. I don't even have a place to stay.

Nintega definitely knew that was a problem, but he smiled and walked up to Mona.

TheNintegaGuy: I can actually help with that. I may be living temporarily in Mondstadt too thanks to the Knights of Favonius, but I believe Katheryne at the Adventurer's Guild can help provide you a place to stay in Mondstadt.

Mona: The Adventurer's Guild? Ah, right, you can do commissions for them in exchange for... you know what I mean, don't you?

TheNintegaGuy: Absolutely. That was actually the plan. Besides, if this is really the only choice that you have then I'm not going to sit back and have you camp on your own with barely anything to eat or drink. I may have been a disciple for you this entire day, Mona, but I've done nothing, but help you too and I'm going to continue to do so.

His words made Mona stare back at him silently, a blush forming on her face from his kindness. Her pride almost made her reject his offer, but her more logical side reminded her that she really had nowhere else to go. Realizing this, she sighs silently and finally says something.

Mona: O-Oh. Um, thanks. I-I... Nevermind, it's nothing.

What caught her off guard next though was that Nintega grabbed her hand and lead her all the way into the city.

TheNintegaGuy: Come on! We should get you a home while the night's still young!

Inside of the city, Lumine, Jordan, and Shadow were all at Good Hunter once again, but unlike earlier in the morning, they seemed really bored and unenthusiastic. So much, that Shadow wasn't even eating food... he was eating a napkin.

Shadowlight2784: You know... food just doesn't taste the same without Nintega...

Lumine: Shadow... You're eating a napkin...

He looked down at it and just shrugged slightly.

Shadowlight2784: Yeah, I knew that.

Without any hesitation, he took another bite from his napkin. Jordan looks at the other two before down at his plate as even he hasn't touched his helping, nor was a certain fairy girl there to complain about wanting more. Seeing how unlively it was, Jordan looks back at his friends with a slight serious look before slamming his hands on the table and standing up.

Jordanwolfboy9743: Shadow's right!

Lumine looked at Jordan like he had gone insane.

Lumine: What?!?!

Jordanwolfboy9743: Not about the napkin eating! About Nintega! And Paimon too! We should make sure that they're okay. They've been gone the whole day.

Hearing that, Lumine and Shadow nodded before the Traveler turns her head and her eyes popped open in shock before it turns into a smile.

Lumine: Wait, I see them!

However, she then grows a raised eyebrow at what she saw next as she squints her eyes.

Lumine: But who's that with them?

Shadow and Jordan turned in the direction she was looking and were almost immediately floored by who they saw with Nintega. Slowly, Jordan reached over to Shadow and yanked him closer.

Jordanwolfboy9743: *whisper* Shadow... please tell me that you see what I'm seeing!

Shadowlight2784: *whisper* Jordan, I may be dense, but I'm not blind... because I see it too.

Over at the Adventurer's Guild, Nintega was explaining to Katheryne about Mona's situation and that she needs a home in Mondstadt. One that could also serve as a laboratory for Mona's research.

Katheryne: I see. I understand the situation.

TheNintegaGuy: So is there anywhere vacant that Mona could stay?

Katheryne: There is a magic laboratory in Mondstadt that has been sealed by an unknown person. Although we have a few specialists that can break the seal, they all have their own labs, and aren't that interested in the matter. I believe that if the astrologist that you mentioned could break that seal, the owner of the house wouldn't mind if she stayed there.

TheNintegaGuy: *chuckles* Mona's intelligent and has been teaching me stuff all day. Breaking the seal should be a breeze for her.

Katheryne: Alright. Then allow me to tell you where the house is.

She relays the directions to Nintega who nods as he takes it all in.

TheNintegaGuy: Okay, got it. Thanks, Katheryne.

Katheryne: My pleasure. Ad Astra Abyssosque.

Nintega and Paimon then led Mona down the western streets of Mondstadt at a house that was near the Cat's Tail. It had a seal with a Hydro symbol on it as they all walked up the stairs and Mona took a look at the seal.

Mona: The person who placed this seal is by no means simple. Breaking this seal by force is nigh on impossible. Interesting. I suppose it's worth using my astrology on.

TheNintegaGuy: Break a leg.

The encouragement made Mona smile as she glowed both of her hands blue before tinkering with the seal.

Mona: Let me see... Hmm, I see, so if you first... and then you...

With one last carefully placed finger, Mona made the magical seal disappear. Nintega and Paimon smiled triumphantly as Mona turned back to them with a proud smile of her own.

Mona: Alright, it's open.

Paimon: Holey moley, that's amazing!

TheNintegaGuy: Truly, a testament to your skill, Master Megistus.

Paimon: Now we just need to go back to Katheryne, and you'll be able to stay here!

???: No need, no need. You have my utmost thanks.

All three of them turned to see an old man looking up at them from down the steps as he appeared extremely relieved that the seal was broken thanks to Mona.

Mona: You are...?

Goth: Oh, I'm Goth, the owner of this house. I passed by the Adventurer's Guild a while back, and Katheryne told me about the matter. I never thought that this troublesome seal would be dispelled so quickly!

Mona: Does that mean I can stay here?

With a chuckle, the old man nods.

Goth: Of course, of course. The facilities inside were just being left there, anyway. I would be glad to have someone make use of them. To express my thanks, I shall rent this building to you at the lowest possible price!

The mere mention of the word "rent" brought a nervous look to Mona's eyes.

Mona: R-Rent? I didn't hear anything about rent, and I helped out, too...

Goth: Help? Yes, of course, I understand. I am most thankful to you for that, so rest assured that I will give you the best rates!

Mona: I... I mean...

As she looked down while thinking of her options, Paimon leaned over to Nintega.

Paimon: Paimon thinks Mona's misunderstood something, but...

Not knowing what else to do now that they hear that Mona is going to have to pay rent, Nintega said the first thing that came to his mind as he turned to the former owner.

TheNintegaGuy: I'll cover her first month of rent if that's fine with you.

Once again, Mona was stunned by Nintega's generosity as she shook both her head and her hands.

Mona: N-No, no, no! You've done plenty already, Nintega! I couldn't possibly have you-

However, a hand on her shoulder was enough to silence her as Nintega just shot her a smile.

TheNintegaGuy: Nope, I insist. Think of it as compensation of not being able to have the proper contents that you were expecting from the box.

Bringing a hand to her chest, Mona once again found herself unable to respond with nothing more than a surprised stare.

Mona: You'd... really do that for me? Even though you've only just become my disciple?

TheNintegaGuy: *smiles* You've helped me out so much today too. Actually, I kind of got what I wanted regarding wanting to learn some astrology from you. And I still do. So allow me to return the favor by letting you save up for a couple of months away.

Mona: N-Nintega, I-

She gets a heartfelt smile along with a huge blush, however, her astrologist pride suddenly took over again as she turns her head away to hide her pink cheeks.

Mona: I-I could have paid on my own, thank you... but considering that you won't take no for an answer... I guess I can't complain. I'll... I'll let you rent this place, b-but only for the first month, you hear?! After that, it's up to me to pay!

TheNintegaGuy: *chuckles* It's a deal, Master Megistus.

Hearing this agreement, Goth sees that it was ready for him to let Mona rent the laboratory.

Goth: Great! Then we are agreed. I will go and prepare the documentation, please wait here.

He slowly walks off to retrieve said documentation, leaving the three alone again.

Mona: Well... thanks for your help today, Nintega. Also, well, I'm very sorry, but I won't be able to do what I agreed to help you with just yet. Without the necessary tools, and without new knowledge, it will take me some time to see your destiny clearly. But I promise that I'll do a reading for you first thing once I'm ready!

TheNintegaGuy: You did say this journey was all gain and no loss.

Mona: Yes... I don't really know what to do, but... I'll do my best.

Nintega smiles brightly before he does something that Mona did not see coming at all...

He wraps his arms around and pulls her into a hug which shocked the astrologist so much that her face immediately turned red. She looks back at Nintega before slowly reciprocating the hug herself as she had an embarrassed smile from Nintega's affection.

TheNintegaGuy: I know you will.

He responded in a low voice. The hug lasted for about a minute and a half before Mona broke it off, smiling back at Nintega.

Mona: I wish you both safe travels! As for me... I need to think of the future as well.

Reaching for the doorknob, she opens the door to the building before looking back at Nintega with a small smile.

Mona: Until we meet again, Hero Knight Nintega~

That tone sounded a lot more flirty which made Nintega blush a bit before Mona winks at him and goes inside and closes the door. While Nintega had his pink face, Paimon was smirking at him the entire time.

Paimon: Hmm. Perhaps Paimon was wrong. Maybe all of your sucking up accomplished something after all~

Nintega blushed even more from this as he turned away from Paimon while puffing his cheeks out.

TheNintegaGuy: Sh-Shuddup...

They both then head down the steps and Paimon had a small thought come to her after they've learned about Mona all day.

Paimon: Speaking of Mona, how is she going to make a living if she doesn't use astrology to make money? She even said that she only wanted you to pay for the first month, so how's she going to pay for all the other months?

TheNintegaGuy: She has time to figure it out. I'll even come back and visit her to see how she's holding up... In fact, I'll do exactly that once she's fully settled in. It'd be nice to see how her new laboratory looks.

As he walked with Paimon, they both turned a corner and were shocked to see Jordan, Shadow, and Lumine there as they all made Nintega flinch.

TheNintegaGuy: Wh-Where did you guys come from?!

Jordanwolfboy9743: *smirks* Oh... we've been here this whole time, pal.

Shadowlight2784: *smirks* You were just too smitten to notice us.

Lumine: *smirks* So that's the reason that you wanted to go alone? *giggles* Adorable, Nintega... Adorable.

Nintega facepalms from this in embarrassment before he remembered something that he needed to do as he decided to get his own smirk on his face back at them.

TheNintegaGuy: Oh, by the way... Before you guys tease me any further, I have a favor to ask...

Shadowlight2784: And what's that?

TheNintegaGuy: ........Can I borrow some Mora?

This immediately shuts all three of them up as they all look at Nintega with some shocked faces. Nintega looks back at Mona's laboratory out of the corner of his eye as while this adventure didn't exactly go as planned for the astrologist, it definitely has for Nintega and he can't wait to look forward to more visits that he'll pay to Mona in the future.

Chapter 15 End.