The Abyssal Darknight
In the residential area of Yilong Wharf, a woman is outside sweeping up the remains of a knocked down and broken flowerpot.

"Oh no, what happened here, miss?" A young man who happens to be passing through asks her.

Woman: "I believe a naughty kitty came by and knocked over one of my flowerpots. Oh dear, it made such a mess..."

"It was no mere kitten, madam!" Another youth, around the same age as the young man who passed by the woman first, appears from behind a lamppost, approaching the other two in an overly dramatic fashion.

Woman: "U-um, do you know this... odd fellow?" She glances over at the young man beside her questioningly.

"U-uh, yeah. This guy is my friend. His name is..."

"I am The Great Detective Haoran, at your service~!" He says with an abundant amount of flair, before turning to his pal. "Greetings, Gaming! Have you come here to assist this woman with locating the mystery flowerpot destroyer?"

Gaming: "Well, I noticed her sweeping it up as I walked by, and wondered what happened..."

Haoran: There is no need to 'wonder what happened' any longer, as The Great Detective Haoran is already on the case!" He states confidently while adjusting his Fontainian detective's cap. (Note: Haoran is a Liyue native.)

Gaming: "Oh, is that so? Well, okay then..." He responds, scratching the back of his head while giving his friend a small, nervous smile, already well used to his antics.

Haoran: "Firstly! Let us take a good look at the incriminating evidence the culprit left behind!" He states confidently while dramatically swishing his Fontainian detective's cloak. (Note: Haoran is a Liyue native.)

Haoran points towards the dirt spilling out on the ground from the broken flowerpot. Or, more specifically, at the footprints left behind in it.

Haoran: "Mystery footprints! Surely left behind by the perpetrator!"

Woman: "They're... clearly footprints left behind by a kitty, right?" She asks in confusion.

Gaming: "Um, yeah, they look like they were made by a kitten to me, too..."

Haoran: "Tsk tsk... that's just what the culprit wants you to think!" He smirks, wagging his finger. "But with my great detective...ing skills, I'll deduce who the true mastermind is!" He states dramatically as he takes out his trusty Fontainian magnifying glass. (Note: Haoran is a Liyue native.)

He leans down, pointing the magnifying glass towards the footprints.

Haoran: "With my impeccable sleuthing prowess, I have discovered that..."

He dramatically pauses.

Gaming: "... Yes?"

Haoran: "These footprints belong to..."

He slowly gets back up, facing the other two.

Haoran: "... A kitten, after all." He says flatly, his enthusiasm gone.

Gaming & Woman: "..."

"Meow!" They suddenly hear a small meow coming from a kitten perched atop the woman's roof.

Woman: "Oh jeez, it's the kitty again! Naughty kitty, get down from there!"

Haoran lets out a long, exasperated sigh, looking down at the ground.

Gaming: "U-uh, so... I was headed over to Jiulue Teahouse for some dim sum and afternoon tea. Care to join me? My treat!"

Haoran: "I-I guess..." He utters, in a very dull voice.

After a short walk, they arrive at the teahouse. Gaming leads them up a flight of stairs, picking a table overlooking the outdoor dining area below and the large stage. As soon as Haoran sits down, he immediately slumps over the table so abruptly his detective's cap slips off, landing with a soft thud onto the table as well.

Gaming decides to leave Haoran be for a bit, eventually returning with some tea and a box of food.

Gaming: "Hey, cheer up, buddy! I'm sure you'll feel a lot better after eating your favorite dumplings!"

Haoran: "Sorry, but I'm not in the mood for dumplings right now..." He mumbles into the table, not even raising his head to look at his friend.

Gaming: "H-huh? But you're always in the mood for dumplings! Are you really that disappointed by how your 'case' went...?"

Haoran: "It's not just this case, Gaming!" He slowly raises himself off the table, clumsily putting his cap back on his head. "Believe it or not, the life of a detective can be... quite miserable at times..."

Gaming: "Really? How so?"

Haoran: "As a grand detective, my goal is to solve all of the... unsolved mysteries plaguing this nation, and bring peace to my fellow citizens. But alas... what need is there of a detective if there are no mysteries to solve?!"

Gaming: "Oh, I see... So, you've been struggling to find detective work, then..."

Haoran: "And to make matters worse, on the rare occasion someone does ask me for assistance, it's only to help them locate a lost pet, or to help tourists with directions..." He growls in annoyance, clenching his fist. "I'm supposed to be a great detective, not a mere menial servant!"

Gaming: "Maybe they're just misunderstanding the work you want to provide for others? Your father does work as a tour guide..."

Haoran: "Does my attire not make it clear enough what I actually am?!" He flops back onto the table again. "Gamiiing... Why is it so hard to find detective wooork?" He whines in irritation.

Gaming: "There, there. I'm sure you'll find a big case to solve soon." He pats him on the head reassuringly. "Besides, look on the bright side. No cases to solve means things are peaceful. That's a good thing, right?"

Haoran: "Mmnph..." He pouts, not wanting to agree with him.

"... Oh, there you are, Haoran. I was looking for you!" A neatly dressed young lad says calmly, as he ascends the stairs to the table where the other two are sitting.

Noticing the familiar face, Haoran immediately bolts up, quickly fixing his hair and cap.

Haoran: "Ahem! Greetings, Xingqiu! Fancy seeing you here!" He says with a bright smile, as if he hadn't been whining in despair a few seconds ago.

Xingqiu: "Yes, I came by to visit you, my friend. I wanted to invite Chongyun along as well, but he was unfortunately busy."

Haoran: "That's a shame, but it's good to see you, my comrade!" He glances over to Gaming. "I was chatting with my old friend while sharing a light afternoon brunch. Allow me to introduce him to you, he is..."

Xingqiu: "Gaming, yes? I've already met him before." He tells Haoran before he finishes. "He's made deliveries to my family estate many times in the past."

Gaming: "Oh yeah, I thought you seemed familiar! You're a member of the Guhua clan, right? Nice to make your acquaintance properly."

Haoran: "So you two have already met. Good to know, that certainly makes things easier!" He crosses his arms and nods his head happily. "Anyway, Gaming and I have known each other for many moons, our bond reaching back to the early days of our youth!"

Xingqiu: "Oh, so you and Gaming are childhood friends? How interesting!"

Haoran: "Yes, that's what I said. We are childhood friends, just like how you and Chongyun are."

Gaming: "Wow, you were able to fully understand Haoran... I'm impressed!"

Xingqiu: "No, it's nothing too impressive. I'm already used to his... unique vernacular." He says with a light grin, before turning his attention back to Haoran. "By the way, if you don't mind me asking, why were you slumped over the table earlier? Did you just get done with some exhausting detective job?"

Haoran: He winces, looking away from Xingqiu nervously. "S-so you saw that..."

Xingqiu: "I did, yes."

Gaming: "He's been struggling with finding any detective work lately, unfortunately..."

Haoran: "Gamiiing!" He whines again. "Don't tell him that!"

Gaming: "But it's true, right?"

Haoran: "M-mmnph..."

Xingqiu: "Oh dear, did I say something I shouldn't have...?"

Gaming: "No, it's alright, don't worry about it. Haoran isn't in a very good mood right now, though." He responds, looking at his old friend with concern. "I got some food for him, hoping it'd cheer him up, but he hasn't touched any of it. He would've normally gobbled up all the dumplings by now, but he hasn't eaten a single one..."

Xingqiu: "O-oh no...!"

Gaming: "But... it's okay. I'm sure he'll bounce back from this and be his chipper self in no time, like always!"

Haoran: "Gentlemen!" He suddenly gets up in quite the dramatic fashion, startling the other two, even the normally calm and collected Xingqiu. "Today's the day! A big case awaits me for sure! I can... sense it."

Gaming: "Okay, that happened sooner than I expected..."

Haoran: "I've encountered the both you by chance on this fine day... That is surely a sign that more fine things are to come to me! And a grand adventure full of mystery and intrigue is surely one of those things!" He proclaims, dramatically pointing at nothing in particular.

Gaming: "Um, since your mother works at the teahouse, us meeting you here isn't really that much of a coincidence..."

Haoran: "Ahem!" He clears his throat. "U-uh, no matter, that's beside the point. My, erm... grand detective senses are tingling, telling me... a great case awaits!"

Xingqiu: "Oh? And where is this great case, Haoran?" He asks with genuine interest.

Haoran: "... I have no idea!"

Gaming shakes his head in disbelief. Xingqiu merely chuckles in amusement.

Haoran: "But it's awaiting me... somewhere! Uh... probably!" He says hesitantly. "I'm sure to encounter, um... an interesting encounter, paving the way to a grand mystery!"

Xingqiu: "In that case, let's be off, shall we? We'll help you look for this great case of yours."

Haoran beams, overjoyed by his support.

Haoran: "Truly?! Thank you kindly! Then, let us depart immediately!"

Gaming: "I guess I'll bring along these dumplings for the road, then. I bet you'll be dying to eat them when your appetite returns."

With that, they all descend the stairs and leave the teahouse, heading off on an exciting and fascinating adventure, where a grand mystery awaits them!

...

Well, actually, they hadn't even left the outdoor dining area yet before they spot a strange young woman slumped over another table, in a similar manner to how Haoran was earlier.

Gaming: "... Well, that was fast."

Xingqiu: "Yes, it was. This would surely be considered an 'interesting encounter', wouldn't it?"

Gaming: "I don't think even a full minute has passed yet..."

They can hear some slight groans coming from her direction. Her arms are sprawled over the table, one of them being used to rest her head on. A large, star-patterned hat droops over her face, covering most of it. Her outfit makes it clear she's most likely from some foreign land, elegantly adorned with deep blues and shimmering gold.

"Uuugh... I'm sooo hungry..."

Upon hearing this, Haoran quickly takes the box of dumplings Gaming is holding, and brings it over to the strange woman.

Haoran: "Excuse me, miss. Are you alright?" He asks her with genuine concern.

"H-huh?" She raises her head, removing her hat from her face as she notices Haoran. She immediately smells the box in his hands, and practically drools in response. "F-fo-food! You have food for me?!"

Haoran: "Of course! Help yourself!" He says with a friendly smile.

Gaming: "W-whoa, you're going to give her all your precious dumplings, just like that?!"

Xingqiu: "I'm not surprised. Haoran is a very kind person, after all."

Gaming: "Yeah, that's true. It seems you know him even better than I thought."

She gratefully accepts the box and wastes no time chowing down on them. The way she devours them all with zero hesitation starkly contrasts her elegant appearance. Once she finishes, she sighs contentedly before slowly rising up from her seat, placing her hat back on her head with a graceful flourish.

Elegant Woman: "Wonderful, I feel alive again~! Thank you, kind stranger. May I ask the name of my savior?"

Now that he knows she's feeling a lot better, Haoran smirks, dramatically swishing his cloak and adjusting his detective's cap before answering.

Haoran: "Of course! I am The Great Detective Haoran, at your service! Seeker of this land's many mysteries, none of which I cannot solve!"

Elegant Woman: "Detective? Hm, your garb... It resembles Fontainian fashion, but you are a Liyue native, yes?"

Haoran: He gasps, his eyes lighting up in surprise. "S-so you noticed?! Wait, could it be... did you arrive here from Fontaine, miss?!"

He practically bounces up and down like a excited child, completely dropping his "detective persona".

Elegant Woman: "U-um, yes. I came here from Fontaine. I'm currently in the middle of traveling to Mond..." She replies nervously, a bit startled by his enthusiasm.

Haoran: "Eeee~! No way! That's so cool, you've got to tell me about..."

Gaming: "Um, Haoran?" He suddenly cuts in.

Haoran blinks before glancing over at Gaming, then gasps. He clears his throat before recomposing himself.

Haoran: "Erm, s-sorry about that. I have a... small interest in the land of Fontaine and its culture, especially when it comes to their detectives. Whenever I see any travelers from there, I tend to get... a little excited."

Gaming: "A little excited, huh?" He shrugs, shaking his head.

Haoran: "S-shut up, Gaming!" He crosses his arms, pouting. Gaming rolls his eyes in response, and Xingqiu chuckles.

Xingqiu: "Pardon me, miss. You have... a unique air about you. Would you mind telling us your name?"

Elegant Woman: "Oh, of course, how rude of me. I am Mona Megistus, an astrologist. You may simply call me Mona if you wish."

Gaming: "Astrologist?"

Haoran: "Mona Megistus?!" His eyes light up again, clearly fascinated by the sound of her name.

Xingqiu: "I see. What is it you do as an astrologist?"

Mona: "I have the ability to read a person's fate."

Gaming: "So, are you like, a fortune teller?"

Mona: "Hmph, I am more than a mere fortune teller!" She places her hands on her hips crossly. "Astrology is the study of the stars. By interpreting the positions of the constellations, I can read a person's destiny... past, present, and even their future."

She crosses her arms, lifting her chin up with a proud grin.

Mona: "Fortune tellers merely proclaim vague guesses, while I reveal nothing but the truth. After all... the stars do not lie."

Xingqiu: "Most impressive. I'm sure you have trained extensively to perfect your craft."

Haoran: "But, if it's the study of the stars... Do you have to wait for nightfall to do any of your readings?"

Mona: "Oh my, what an adorably simple-minded thing to ask!" She says with a light laugh. "Of course not. The stars are always present, whether we can see them or not. In fact, I could perform a reading at this very moment. That being said, while I don't normally do this in exchange for Mora, or... food, in this case... Since you were kind enough to save me from the brink of starvation, I'll offer to divine your fate if you'd like."

Haoran: "U-uh... um..." He backs away slightly, a bit uneasy all of a sudden. "Y-you mean... you will see what my future holds...?"

Xingqiu: "Oh, how wonderful! What a unique opportunity you've been presented with, Haoran!" He clasps his hands in excitement.

Haoran doesn't look nearly as excited however, nervously tugging at Gaming's sleeve.

Haoran: "G-Gaming..."

Gaming: "What's wrong, buddy?"

Haoran: "U-u-uh... I'm..." He leans in to whisper to Gaming. "K-kinda... afraid."

Gaming: "Afraid of what?" He whispers back.

Haoran: "W-well, what if... my future isn't all that interesting? Maybe even... my work as detective could be..."

Gaming places a hand on Haoran's back comfortingly, giving him a warm smile.

Gaming: "I believe in you, Haoran. I'm sure you'll grow up to be a great detective someday. So chin up, okay? There's nothing for you to worry about."

Haoran: He blushes slightly, cheering up a bit at his words. "Y-you really think so...?"

Gaming: "Hey now, it's not like you to lack confidence like this. But... if you really don't want to do it..."

Haoran gulps nervously, looking straight towards Mona, who's still patiently waiting for his answer.

Haoran: "No, I'll do it!" He proclaims, no longer whispering. "This is most definitely not enough to unnerve The Great Detective Haoran!"

Gaming: "There we go, that's the spirit!"

Haoran slowly approaches Mona, arms at his sides as he tries to mask his unease, doing his best to maintain eye contact with her.

Haoran: "A-alright... I'm ready."

Mona: "There's no need to look so stiff. It's not as if this will harm you."

Haoran: "I'm definitely not... s-scared or anything like that! As a great detective, I am always prepared for situations like this!"

Mona: "I fail to understand what being a 'great detective' has to do with this, but no matter."

She lifts one palm towards the sky as she begins to chant softly. A faint shimmer of starlight gathers around the fingertips of her other hand, swirling into sigils and constellations only she can fully comprehend. Her eyes narrow as she focuses and begins her reading.

Mona: "Let's see... Hm... Yes. Interesting..."

A floating circular diagram appears in front of her, filled with shifting stars and arcane lines. As she continues to read, the starlight pulses.

Then... her eyes suddenly widen in shock, a faint gasp escaping her lips.

Haoran: "W-what's with the gasp?!" He stammers, a bit louder than intended. "D-do you see anything... bad?"

Mona: "It's less 'bad', more that I'm simply... surprised by what I saw?" She turns to Gaming and Xingqiu. "This... fine young lad's name is Haoran, yes?"

Gaming: "U-uh..."

Xingqiu: "Why yes, that's correct. And he's quite the detective."

Mona: "I-is... that so?" She places her hand to her chin, deep in thought.

Xingqiu: "Ah that's right, we haven't introduced ourselves, have we? I am Xingqiu, and the one standing next to me is Gaming."

Mona: "Nice to make your acquaintance, but that's not what I..."

Haoran: "I sense doubt in your eyes, Miss Mona Megistus!" He cuts her off, dramatically swishing his cape again. "But once you see me unravel a grand mystery before your very eyes, you will know that I do not call myself The Great Detective Haoran for nothing."

Mona: "I already mentioned you can just call me Mona. That said, my reading did say you would do something spectacular enough to deeply impress your peers, so... Perhaps what you proclaim is more than just boasting."

It's Haoran's turn to gasp now, but more in excitement than shock.

Haoran: "At last, my time to shine has finally come!" He pauses, clearing his throat. "I-I mean... as I am The Great Detective Haoran, this day was inevitable, of course!"

Gaming: "S-see? As I thought, your destiny is bright, Haoran!"

Mona: "..."

Xingqiu: "Did the reading say where or when this spectacular event would happen?"

Mona: "It did not. But I'd imagine it wouldn't simply occur without any effort on his part..."

"Gaming! Oh, thank goodness I found you!"

A man suddenly comes rushing towards them. As he gasps for breath, he continues,

Man: "Were you planning on heading to Liyue Harbor sometime soon? I need to have a commission posted at the Adventurer's Guild."

Mona: "... What."

Gaming: "Of course. What's the commission?"

Man: "It's... quite odd, actually. But it's also quite troubling. You see, there's a popular mining spot for Clearwater Jade not too far from here. For some reason, a strange, black armored knight started 'guarding' that spot, frightening any passersby and troubling anyone who regularly mines the Jade there."

Haoran, clearly intrigued, carefully listens to what the man says, though he doesn't say anything to interrupt him yet.

Man: "It's becoming more and more of a problem as time passes, and we can't just leave it be any longer. There have even been some people starting rumors that the knight is actually some sort of monster or ghost..."

Haoran: "Ah yes, of course... this unknown interloper is none other than 'The Abyssal Darknight'!" He decides to cut in at last, as dramatically as usual. "This sounds like the start of a grand mystery... one only The Great Detective Haoran can solve!"

The man turns to Gaming in confusion.

Man: "... Who is this?"

Haoran: "I am The Great Detective Haoran, were you not listening? Anyway, there's no need to trouble my dear friend Gaming with posting the commission, as yours truly will handle this! After all, this is my fate! My destiny! My... uh, fate!"

Gaming: "Yeah, that's not a bad idea. Why don't you let us handle it, sir?"

Man: "A-are you sure? If you're really up for it, I'll be willing to pay you a good amount of Mora as thanks."

Mona's ears perk up at the mention of "a good amount of Mora".

Haoran: "You don't need to concern yourself with payment, my good sir. As a great detective, I merely..."

Mona: "Now wait just a second!" She cuts in, shocking Haoran enough that his cap almost falls off his head.

Haoran: "M-Miss Mona Megistus, you startled me! Is something the matter?"

Mona: "Once again, just 'Mona' is fine. And were you about to decline this man's pay?!"

Haoran: "Why, is that a problem?" He asks, tilting his head.

Mona: "Obviously! Because..." She glances at the others, noticing them eyeing her strangely. She clears her throat, and continues, "B-because, if you really are a 'great detective', you shouldn't devalue yourself like that! If you go around taking cases for free, it may cause others to take advantage of you, y'know?"

Xingqiu: "Ah yes, what excellent advice!" He nods in agreement.

Haoran: "Indeed! I thank you, you are truly a kind soul for looking out for me like that!"

Mona: "Naturally!" She laughs nervously. "By the way, if you wouldn't mind, I'd like to offer to help out with this commission, for just a... quarter of the Mora, assuming your two friends will be helping you with this as well."

Haoran: "Of course! I'll gladly welcome your assistance!"

Mona: "Excellent, excellent!" She says happily, trying to hide her smirk.

Man: "Thank you, everyone. This saves me a lot of trouble." He takes out a map, which Gaming accepts. "This will show you where the mining spot is. Best of luck with dealing with that strange knight!"

Mona: "Alright, then let us be off, shall we?"

--

After finding out where the location of the Jade mining area is, the quartet set off toward it.

Gaming: "Haoran, make sure to be careful. We'll definitely run into monsters on our way there, y'know."

Haoran: "I know that, Gaming! I can take care of myself, I'm not an infant!" He says with a huff.

Gaming: "But unlike us, you don't have a Vision, and you haven't even received any kind of combat training. I'm just looking out for you..."

Xingqiu: "Haoran has traveled many times even on his own, right? I'm sure he'll be fine."

Gaming: "Maybe you don't know him as well as I thought..." He shakes his head. "One time, I took my eyes off him for a second, and he's off trying to pet a slime!"

Haoran: "T-that was years ago! And I couldn't help it, it was really cute!"

Gaming: "If you want to pet a slime so bad, settle for the giant slime plush I gave you when you were little..."

Haoran: "Aaah!" He waves his hands, flustered. "X-Xingqiu, don't listen to him! I definitely don't own anything embarrassing like that!"

Xingqiu: He chuckles at the exchange. "It's quite adorable how close you two are! It makes me wish Chongyun had come along with us."

Haoran pouts, shooting a glare at Gaming, who simply shrugs in response.

Mona: "..."

Haoran: "Pardon me, Miss Mona Megistus. You look like you're dying to say something."

Mona: "For the last time, just call me..." She pause with a sigh. "Never mind, forget it. Anyway, we're almost there, I assume?"

Gaming: "Oh right, you're not from Liyue, so you're probably not familiar with the area." He takes out the map to show Mona. "Our destination is around here. So yes, we should be getting close."

Haoran: "Yes, our grand encounter with 'The Abyssal Darknight' awaits us!"

Gaming: "Um, Haoran, why do you keep calling it that?"

Xingqiu: "Oh, The Abyssal Darknight is from a novel I lent him not too long ago."

Haoran: "More specifically, it's the sequel to the critically acclaimed 'The Abyssal Mawsworn'. A true, Inazuman classic!"

Gaming: "H-how childish..."

Haoran: "I-it is not, Gaming! How dare you!" He crosses his arms, huffing again.

--

They eventually reach their destination. A faint green glow illuminates the cavern interior, the light coming from the shimmering Clearwater Jade lining the walls and floor. They notice small droplets of water falling from the ceiling of the cavern as they enter.

Xingqiu: "Strange... The knight is nowhere in sight..."

Haoran: "The Abyssal Darknight is clearly hiding in the shadows... as he fears The Great Detective Haoran! Because I know of all his secrets! And I shall uncover even more of them after I thoroughly investigate this grotto!"

Mona: "How can you uncover more of his secrets if you already know of all of them...?"

Gaming: "Heh heh..." He scratches the back of his head as Haoran dramatically points toward deeper into the cave.

Haoran: "Alright, everyone! Let's look for clues about... Ehyaaah!"

Haoran suddenly shrieks in an unnaturally high voice, as he feels a chilly drop of water hit the back of his neck. He sobs a bit, rubbing it slowly with his hand.

Haoran: "Uuuuh... That was cold!" He whines, before dramatically pointing again. "Alright, everyone! Let's look for clues about where the Abyssal Darknight might be hiding!"

Mona: "Is he really going to pretend that didn't just happen...?"

Gaming: "U-uh... let's act like we didn't hear that..."

They watch Haoran wander off on his own to examine the Jade lining the walls.

Haoran: "Wow, it's sooo pretty~!" He says, eyes sparkling as he admires the Jade.

Mona: "Ugh, he asked us to investigate, but he's just fooling around!" She crosses her arms in exasperation. "I'm sorry, but how is this dunce anything even close to a 'great detective'?"

Xingqiu: He gives a light laugh at her question, and responds, "He can surprise you sometimes. That's what makes him so interesting."

Gaming: "Oh? Are you saying you saw him solve a grand case before your eyes in the past?"

Xingqiu: "Something like that. On the day I first met him actually. Perhaps I'll share that story with you after we help Haoran with this commission..."

Meanwhile, as Haoran approaches one of the glowing veins, he reaches out a hand to touch it, and...

Gaming: "W-watch out!"

A looming figure suddenly emerges from the shadows behind Haoran, sword raised to strike. However, before it connects, Gaming quickly pulls him aside, moving him out of the way just in time as a large blade slams into the ground where he was just standing.

Xingqiu: "It's...!"

Mona: "... the black armored knight!"

Haoran: "A-as I suspected! So, you've decided to show yourself at last! W-well, as a great detective, I have nothing to fear from the likes of you!" He declares... while currently clutching tightly to Gaming.

Mona: "Sorry to say, but you don't seem very fearless while shaking and embracing your friend for dear life like that..."

Haoran slowly looks up at Gaming, who smiles at him nervously.

Gaming: "U-uh, I'm glad you're okay, buddy..."

Haoran blushes furiously, before quickly letting go and scooting away from him.

Haoran: "Y-yes, I'm okay. Thank you, Gaming..." Still shaking a bit, he tries to regain his composure before dramatically pointing at the knight. "Anyway, at last we meet face to face, Abyssal Darknight!"

Black Knight: "Uh, 'Abyssal Darknight'...?"

Xingqiu: "Hm. You do not have nearly as intimidating of a voice as I'd imagined..."

Black Knight: "H-huh? Oh..." He clears his throat. "Begone, intruders! Or, uh... I shall place a curse upon you!"

Haoran: "C-curse?!" He quickly hides behind Gaming. "Y-your threat won't work on me! With my detective skills, I'll get to the bottom of what you've been up to... from a safe and respectable distance!"

Mona: She shrugs, before saying, "Calm down, Haoran. This knight seems to be nothing more than a psychotic man in an old, rusty suit of armor."

Black Knight: "W-what?! You're sorely mistaken, strangely-garbed one!"

Mona: "'Strangely-garbed'...? How dare you!"

The knight holds up his sword in an attempt to frighten her, but she calmly responds by creating a small sphere of water, enveloping his head with it. This causes him to flail around wildly before he collapses onto the ground.

Gaming: "W-whoa, that's...!"

Xingqiu: ".... quite extreme..."

Mona: "Relax. I don't intend to kill him..."

She snaps her fingers, causing the water to dissipate. The knight gasps and coughs for breath, still lying on the ground.

Black Knight: "Y-you have a Vision?!" He slowly glances at the others in a panic. "No, hold on, you're not the only one with... What am I going to do now?! I can't protect this mining spot from people like you!"

Haoran: "Hah, you say 'protect'... But I, The Great Detective Haoran, see right through your ruse!" He casually walks toward the fallen knight... now that he knows the threat has been neutralized by Mona. "You are a creature from the depths of the Abyss, disguising yourself as a mere man adorned in black armor... in order to catch us all off guard! Aren't you? Just admit it!"

Gaming: "Um... Haoran, I think he's really just a regular guy in a rusty old suit..."

Haoran: "... Huh? Is that so?" He says flatly.

Black Knight: "H-have mercy on me! If you must take all of this precious Jade, then so be it, you rotten thieves! Just please, spare my life!"

Mona: She groans. "Relax, that's not what we're here for."

She reluctantly helps him up, with Gaming and Xingqiu's help.

Xingqiu: "We assure you, we only came here to investigate why you've been scaring away anyone who tries to approach this Clearwater Jade cavern."

Gaming: "Yeah. Why are you guarding this place?"

Black Knight: "My good sirs, I have a genuinely noble reason for my actions, I assure you!"

Mona: "'Sirs'...? Excuse me, but there is clearly at least one madam in your presence. If you can't see well with that helmet on, I suggest you take it off."

Black Knight: "O-oh, my apologies. Sirs, and... one madam, then?" He takes a good look at the four of them again, before asking, "Wait, you there... are you a girl as well? Or..."

Gaming: "Haoran's a boy, obviously."

Black Knight: "Oh no, I didn't mean him, I meant..."

Haoran: "Gaming is a boy as well."

Black Knight: "No, no, I meant the blue one!"

Mona: "If you think I am a boy, then you really should take that helmet off!"

Black Knight: "N-no, I...!" He sighs, it echoing through his thick helmet. "Never mind."

He slowly walks over to one of the Jade veins, gently placing a hand on it.

Black Knight: "This cavern... Has been a special place to me, ever since I was a little boy. It was like, a secret hideout. A second home away from home, if you will..."

He turns toward the others, sobs heard from inside his helmet.

Black Knight: "But then... it was eventually discovered by others, and turned into a popular mining spot. At first, they respected the cavern by only mining a bit of it at a time... But eventually they started mining way too much! This place will eventually be depleted of all of its precious Jade for good because of those greedy people!"

Mona: "Is the Jade in here really worth that much to cause overmining? I wonder..."

Black Knight: "See, look! Now even you are thinking of taking some of my precious Jade to satisfy your own greed!"

Haoran: "... Hm?"

Mona: "N-no, I was... merely curious, is all!"

Black Knight: "Anyway, I found this suit of armor while exploring some ruins one day, and decided to try and use it to scare away anyone who attempted to enter or even approach this place. And it seemed to have been very effective... until you four showed up."

Xingqiu: "I see... So that's why. I suppose if you're protecting this place from overmining, you truly do have a noble reason for your actions after all."

Black Knight: He breathes a sigh of relief. "Thank you. I'm glad you understand."

Gaming: "Sorry Haoran, it seems this 'case' was an absolute bust, after all..."

Xingqiu: "Hm, but does this mean... The reading Mona performed on Haoran was incorrect...?"

Mona: "N-no, that's impossible! As I said, the stars do not lie! Unless..." She quietly gasps. "Have I gotten rusty due to exhaustion from my travels? I suppose it would explain that... irregularity..."

Black Knight: "Yes, I suppose you will all be on your way, then? Take care!"

Haoran: "Tsk tsk tsk!"

They all find Haoran leaning against a rocky wall, smugly wagging his finger. He walks slowly towards the knight again, dramatically swishing his cloak and adjusting his detective's cap.

Haoran: "Did you really think you could shroud your lie that easily while in the presence of The Great Detective Haoran, Sir Knight?!"

Black Knight: "H-huh?! What do you mean?"

Gaming: "U-uh... Haoran?"

Xingqiu: "No wait, that gleam in his eyes... I believe Haoran is about to show us a grand deduction after all!" He tells Gaming, eyes practically sparkling with excitement.

Haoran: "You claim that you are merely here to guard this cave from greedy folks eager to take too much of this precious Jade for themselves..." He dramatically points at the knight. "But I see right through your sob story! That dishonest gaze of yours tells me all I need to know!"

Mona: "Um, how can you see his eyes at all while he's wearing that helmet...?"

Haoran: "E-er... uh... My keen intellect allows me to see the look in his eyes even while he's wearing it!" He clears his throat. "Anyway, when I went to... investigate the pretty Jade, I eyed something... strange."

Xingqiu: "You did? What did you notice, Haoran?"

Haoran: "Take a look." He goes over to one of the Jade, pointing to a visible dent in the spot where it attaches to the wall. "A visible trace of someone's attempt to mine this Jade! And it looks to be made recently, too!"

Gaming: "Hold on, isn't that the Jade you were standing next to before the knight tried to attack you?" He asks, noticing the mark near Haoran's feet.

Haoran: "U-um... why yes! And that's why he attempted to strike at me in the first place... because he was afraid I'd notice! But clearly he was too late!"

Xingqiu: "But how did that fresh mark get there in the first place, if he's been guarding this cavern for so long?"

Mona: "It seems as though this knight is even more incompetent than he looks..."

Black Knight: "Wow, that was harsh. But, while I hate to admit it, she's absolutely..."

Haoran: "Wrong!" He cuts in, adjusting his cap again. "That's what a novice detective might assume... but I am no novice!"

Black Knight: "H-huh?!"

Haoran: "The man who requested of us to come here told us that you have been very successful in scaring away any passersby. So the thought of someone sneaking in to try and mine Jade under your watchful eye is very unlikely. After all, if that were not true, we wouldn't be here in the first place, now would we?"

Xingqiu: "Oh, yes! That's a very good point, Haoran." He nods in agreement.

Haoran: "Therefore! The culprit behind this dent is obvious! And that is none other than you, Abyssal Darknight!" He dramatically points to the knight (again), causing him to jump back in shock at the accusation.

Black Knight: "W-what?! But like I said, I'm here to guard this cavern! Why would I try to mine any of the Jade, that would be counterproductive to my goal!"

Haoran: "That's true... which is why it makes the perfect cover story!" He crosses his arms, smirking at him confidently. "With your 'disguise' as a man in a dark suit of armor, attempting to scare away any who approach... No one would suspect you're actually here to take all of the Jade for yourself!"

Black Knight: "T-that's ridiculous! How would I even get away with hauling all of it out of here on my own?!"

Haoran: "'Like a secret hideout', was it? A 'second home'? You must have tried your best to keep this location hidden... and as such, you should know of at least a few secret ways into this area, right?"

Xingqiu: "Oh wow, that actually makes a lot of sense..."

Black Knight: "N-now wait just a second! Just because I may know of some hidden paths in this cavern, doesn't mean..."

Haoran: "As the Fontainian legend himself, Detective Howard, once said... If someone is trying to cover up a lie, it'll unravel sooner or later. Any experienced detective should be able to spot these slip-ups, no matter how minor... For example, you accused Mona of attempting to pilfer 'your' Jade... Now, why would you word it like that, unless... you were aiming to take it all for yourself?!"

Black Knight: "H-huh?!"

Gaming: "U-um, Haoran?" He gently places a hand on his shoulder. "That wasn't a bad deduction, but... is it not possible he worded it like that simply because of his attachment to this cavern? It's been precious to him since childhood, after all..."

Haoran: "U-uh..."

Black Knight: "Alright, fine! You're right, okay?! I confess to everything!"

A long silence hangs in the air. Until...

Gaming: "W-wait... WHAAAT!? He was right?!"

Mona: "He was right?!" She exclaims, just as shocked as Gaming.

Xingqiu: "He was right!" He adds happily.

Haoran: "I was right!?"

Gaming: "Wait, why are you surprised?!"

Black Knight: "I-it's as he said... When I found out people discovered my secret spot, I became so angry... They promised not to take much, but... This is my spot. It's my Clearwater Jade! At least, that's what I thought..."

He sighs, hanging his head in shame.

Black Knight: "My plan was to scare everyone away. And when I knew no one would approach this cavern anymore, I would mine all the Jade, and sell it all for lots of Mora. But, when I tried to mine one of them... I stopped."

He looks towards the Jade with the dent in it, and begins to cry.

Black Knight: "I-I almost... ruined the beauty of this cavern completely... because of my own selfishness! The place that gave me comfort on my saddest of days! The one who was blinded by greed... was me!"

The knight slowly approaches Haoran, bowing his head.

Black Knight: "'Great Detective Haoran', was it? Thank you so much for arriving here with your comrades before it was too late. And of course, for uncovering the truth. You... stopped me from doing something absolutely terrible to this place that I hold dear. You are most definitely deserving of your title."

Haoran blushes, scratching the back of his head.

Haoran: "W-well, I... I-I mean..." He shakes his head, regaining his composure. "Uh, of course, naturally! Nothing escapes the scrutiny of The Great Detective Haoran!" He adjusts his cap and swishes his cloak with flair. "Now then, sir knight, for your misdeeds, you shall turn yourself in to the authorities and confess your crimes!"

Gaming: "Um, he didn't actually take any of the Jade though, so I don't know if he..."

Black Knight: "Yes, I'll do it! I'll turn myself in right away!"

Before anyone is able to cut in and say anything else, the knight dashes out of the cavern.

Gaming: "... Never mind."

Xingqiu: "You did it, Haoran! What an excellent deduction! It was like watching a detective from a novel in real life!"

Haoran: "I-I... heh..."

Gaming: "Yeah, great job. Sorry for doubting you, he would've gotten away with his lie had you not caught him."

Haoran: "H-heh heh heh..."

Mona: "..."

Xingqiu: "Well, it turns out the reading you performed on Hoaran wasn't incorrect after all, Miss Mona."

Mona: "... Hm, yes. I suppose you're right." She crosses her arms, a light smile on her face. "I have to admit, whether by actual intuition or dumb luck, you pulled that off quite spectacularly. Indeed, as I predicted, you have certainly impressed us, myself included. Congratulations, I think your future as a detective is bright."

Haoran, unable to hide his wide grin any longer, pumps his fists up in the air happily.

Haoran: "I did it! I actually did it! I was able to pull off a grand deduction after all!"

Xingqiu watches him bounce up and down with glee, clapping for him enthusiastically.

Gaming: He laughs at the sight. "Would you look at that, he's so happy that he doesn't care about keeping up his 'cool detective persona' at all right now. Huh, Mona?"

Mona looks away, hand to her chin as she seems to be in deep thought about something.

Mona: "So, my reading was accurate after all... But, then what was...?"

Gaming: "..."

--

They return to Yilong Wharf, where the man is waiting. They tell him about the knight, and he is both surprised and overjoyed.

Man: "Wow, you all handled it better than I could've ever imagined! Thank you so much!"

Xingqiu: "Think nothing of it. If anyone is deserving of your thanks, it's Haoran. After all, it was thanks to his brilliant deduction that the knight left the cavern and came clean about his intentions."

Haoran: "W-well, I..." He blushes happily. "I-it was nothing that I, The Great Detective Haoran, couldn't handle!"

Man: "I see, I see. Anyhow, as promised, here is your Mora."

He hands a hefty bag of it to Haoran, its weight making him wobble a little.

Haoran: "W-whoa, it's... heavy!"

Man: "Of course it is. It's pay for all four of you."

Xingqiu: "Oh, that's okay. Haoran, you can have my share. You've definitely earned it."

Haoran: "W-wait, really?! But..."

Gaming: "Mine too."

Haoran: "G-Gaming?! Why...? But I should at least pay you back for the dumplings!"

Gaming: "No way! Besides, you gave them to Mona, remember? You didn't even..."

He's cut off by Haoran's stomach growling loudly.

Haoran: "That's right... I'm sooo hungry..."

Gaming and Xingqiu chuckle in response.

Haoran: "Let's all grab some post-grand case lunch! My treat~!"

Xingqiu: "That sounds good to me!"

Gaming: "Yes, it's a deal, then!"

Haoran: "Oh, but first..." He takes the bag and brings it over to Mona, opening it up in front of her. "You were a big help, Miss Mona Megistus. Please, feel free to take half of what's in here."

Mona: "H-half?! Of all that Mora!?"

Her eyes light up at the sight of all the gold before her, and she reaches out a hand to it... But she stops herself.

Mona: "... No. You will give me a quarter of it, as promised."

Haoran: "Are you sure?"

Mona: "No matter what, I would feel terrible about taking advantage of the one who saved me from the brink of starvation today. And... I have to admit, this day was quite the interesting one. I'm sure it will be a fond memory I'll never forget."

Haoran smiles at her brightly.

Haoran: "And I'll never forget you! I hope we meet again someday!"

Mona nods, with a bright smile of her own. She takes her share of the Mora, somehow retaining enough self control to not take too much, before she turns around to take her leave.

Mona: "Well, I'll be off to continue my journey to Mond. Take care, all of you. Farewell!"

They wave to her goodbye as she adjusts her hat, before walking away.

"... Wait! Hold on a second, Mona!"

After taking a couple of steps, she glances behind her, noticing someone has run up to her. It's Gaming.

Mona: "Yes? Is something the matter?"

Gaming: "I'm sorry. There's something I needed to ask you about. Preferably without being in earshot of the others."

Mona: "Hm? What is it?"

Gaming: "When you performed your reading on Haoran before, did you see anything... strange?"

Mona: "H-huh? Why, yes. It's been nagging at me for a while, actually... An 'inconsistency' I couldn't quite make sense of..."

Gaming gulps nervously.

Gaming: "I-I was careless... I should've figured this might happen..."

Mona: "What?"

Gaming: "C-could it have been..."

He whispers something in Mona's ear, making her eyes widen a bit in surprise.

Mona: "Yes, that was it! So I had not made an error after all! But then, why...?"

Gaming: "I deeply apologize, but I can't tell you anymore about it. And please... don't tell anyone about what you saw. I beg of you..."

Mona doesn't respond immediately as she studies Gaming's uneasy expression.

Mona: She sighs. "Well, it's not my business to pry into such matters. Very well then, my lips are sealed. I'm satisfied enough knowing my reading wasn't mistaken after all, at least."

Gaming: "T-thank you for being understanding..."

Mona: "That being said... The fact that a 'great detective' like Haoran, seeker of mysteries, is hiding a secret himself..."

She turns slightly, her expression unreadable.

Mona: "... It's quite ironic, don't you think?"

Gaming remains silent as Mona tips her hat one last time, before walking off into the dusk.

Chapter End