Shroud of the Great Detective
Liyue Harbor shimmers with scattered golden lanterns, some drifting across the surface of the water, and some floating gently overhead, their beauty even more vivid as nightfall approaches.

"Oh, that's right. It'll be Lantern Rite soon, huh?"

Xingqiu: "It's tomorrow, in fact. Honestly Chongyun, have you really been so busy that you'd forget even about something like this?"

Chongyun: "I apologize, Xingqiu. Is this why you were so eager to take a walk around Liyue Harbor today?"

Xingqiu: "It isn't just that; we haven't spent any time together at all recently. I probably would've asked you the same thing even if Lantern Rite wasn't approaching."

Chongyun: "Well, I shouldn't be tied up with any work for a while, so I'll be happy to spend the next few days celebrating with you, if you'd like."

Xingqiu: "That's excellent! Especially since the two other friends I asked are too busy... I'd be pretty lonely otherwise."

Chongyun: "Hm? Which two other friends?"

Xingqiu: "Haoran and Gaming."

Chongyun: "Haoran is that... unique detective you introduced me to not too long ago, right? And Gaming is...?"

Xingqiu: "He's Haoran's childhood friend. Don't you remember? I mentioned him when I told you about that big case Haoran solved the other day!"

Chongyun: "Ah yes, that 'incredible, unforgettable' event... Now I remember..."

Xingqiu: "It was quite fun. I still think it's a shame you weren't there to witness it yourself."

Chongyun: "Oh yes, what... a shame indeed..." He says with a nervous smile.

Just as they turn a corner near the docks, a sharp voice rings out, startling both of them.

"Argh, she disappeared again?! I can't believe her!" A man barks from somewhere up ahead. "That lazy, troublesome girl... Thinks she can just wander off whenever she pleases!"

Some poor bespectacled fellow that the man is taking out his frustrations on: "Mr. Fu! Please calm down!"

Fu: "I've had it with my daughter's antics! To think she'd pull this even during Lantern Rite! Hmph!"

Xingqiu: "O-oh dear..."

Chongyun: "Oh, it's him."

Xingqiu: "You know that man, Chongyun?"

Chongyun: "Well, I know of him. He's well known for being a reliable tour guide... and for his shouting. His very loud shouting..."

Xingqiu: "Tour guide...?" He muses, raising a hand to his chin.

Chongyun: "Um, why was that the part you focused on?"

Xingqiu: "Uh... oh. Sorry, never mind." He shakes his head, turning back around toward the direction they came from. "In any case, it might be wise to... take a different path."

Chongyun: "Yeah, agreed..."

--

The two continue down a lantern-lined street, the smell of fresh sweet osmanthus and oil-fried dumplings drifting through the air. As they glance toward a nearby food stall, they spot a familiar face standing beside it, clutching a box of dumplings in one hand, and eagerly gobbling down one of them with the other.

"Mmmm~ Sho good!"

Xingqiu: "Haoran! I didn't expect to see you here!" He says happily, waving to his friend.

Haoran eyes widen after hearing Xingqiu calling to him, almost jumping in surprise.

Haoran: "O-oh, Xingqiu, Chongyun... It's only you two..." He exhales in relief after gulping down his dumpling. "You gave me quite a fright, my friends!"

Xingqiu: "Apologies. I didn't think I hollered that loudly, did I...?"

Chongyun: "Weren't you supposed to be busy?"

Xingqiu: "Ah yes, that's right. Gaming had told me you'd be too preoccupied with something to join us for our evening stroll around the harbor..."

Haoran: "U-um, that's..." He pauses, adjusting his detective's cap, attempting to remain calm and composed. "Correct! I am preoccupied... with investigating these dumplings!"

Xingqiu: "Goodness, that explains everything!"

Chongyun: "Xingqiu... you're not being serious, are you...?" He utters with a shrug.

Xingqiu: "And what are the results of your investigation, Haoran?" He asks, grinning as he plays along.

Haoran: "Well..." He smirks, dramatically swishing his detective's cloak. "I, The Great Detective Haoran, deem these dumplings to be absolutely delicious~!"

Haoran says triumphantly, prompting Xingqiu to lightly clap in encouragement.

Chongyun: "... What."

Suddenly, they hear some loud, frustrated sobs nearby.

"Auuugh! Nooo way!"

Xingqiu: "Is that Little Lulu? It's unusual to see her alone..."

Haoran rushes over, crouching down to her level, eyes wide with concern.

Haoran: "What happened, are you alright?!"

Little Lulu: "Oh, it's the Grand Detective! Perfect timing, could you help me?"

Haoran: "Of course! Although, I'm actually the 'Great Detective'..."

Little Lulu: "Look at this!" She holds up a frayed brown string.

Xingqiu and Chongyun exchange puzzled glances.

Xingqiu: "It's a string."

Chongyun: "Yes, definitely a string..." He raises an eyebrow in confusion. "But... what's the problem with it?"

Little Lulu: "I'm sure Detective Haoran can figure it out, right?"

Haoran eyes narrow, carefully examining it for a few seconds before he gasps.

Haoran: "N-nooo way! How tragic...!"

Little Lulu: "Right?! I knew you'd get it!"

Xingqiu: "Would you mind sharing what you've deduced, Haoran?"

Haoran: "It's obvious if you look at the end there!" He proclaims, pointing at it dramatically. "See?!"

Xingqiu: "Ah, now that you mention it, it looks like something's been torn off of it..."

Haoran: "It's not just a 'something'... It was a Stonee Plush!"

Xingqiu and Chongyun stare at Haoran blankly.

Haoran: "A Stonee Plush!" He exclaims even louder for emphasis.

Chongyun: "Uh yeah, so... What exactly is a 'Stony Plush'?"

Haoran: "No, no, it was a Stonee Plush. A Stony Plush would be much too big to fit on a string!"

Little Lulu: "Obviously! Silly Chongyun!"

Haoran and Little Lulu both giggle, Chongyun placing a hand to his forehead in exasperation.

Chongyun: "I... don't understand. You're just confusing me even more..."

Haoran: "It's quite alright. I myself know a lot about it as I have my very own Stony Plush... er had a Stony Plush. I-in the past. I don't have it anymore."

Xingqiu: "Oh, you're talking about the giant slime plush Gaming gifted you as a child, right?"

Haoran: "U-uh... yes, that's correct..." He blushes faintly, a bit embarrassed. "I-I'm... surprised you remembered that..."

Little Lulu: "I can't believe I lost it! It was so important to me!"

Xingqiu: "Did you receive it as a gift?

Little Lulu: "That's right! Little Fei and Little Meng gave it to me to help me feel better..."

Chongyun: "Help you... feel better?"

Little Lulu: "Yes! A few days ago, some mean girls kept making fun of me, telling me it was dumb I always played with boys! They made me cry, so Little Fei and Little Meng gave me the slime plush to cheer me up."

Haoran winces, glancing away and tugging his detective's cap down slightly over his face.

Xingqiu: "Oh no, you were bullied? I'm so sorry that happened to you..." He says, frowning.

Haoran: "... I understand completely." His voice drops to a surprisingly serious, quiet tone.

Little Lulu: "Huh? Really?"

Haoran proceeds to spin around dramatically, his detective cloak flaring behind him as he strikes a pose, a confident smirk on his face.

Haoran: "Of course! Because I'm The Great Detective Haoran after all!"

Chongyun: "...?"

Haoran: "Anyhow... comrades! It seems we have a case on our hands... the case of the Stolen Stonee Plush!"

Chongyun: "Why do you assume it was stolen...?"

Xingqiu: "Ooh, another case! How exciting!"

Little Lulu: "You'll be able to find it, won't you, Great Detective?"

Haoran: "Of course! Naturally!" He answers, puffing out his chest confidently.

Little Lulu: "Even though a bunch of people are wandering around because it's almost Lantern Rite?"

Haoran: "O-of course... Naturally..." He answers again, puffing out his chest less confidently.

Xingqiu: "There's nothing to worry about, as his 'two assistants' will be aiding him in the search!"

Chongyun: "So, I'm getting dragged into this too, huh?" He shrugs lightly. "Oh well. It's to help out Little Lulu, so I suppose I'll go along with it."

Little Lulu: "Thank you sooo much!" She practically sobs in gratitude.

Haoran: "No problem, leave it to The Great Detective Haoran... and co.!"

--

The three wander around, looking for clues... Which so far has basically consisted of Haoran brandishing his trusty Fontanian magnifying glass, scanning the ground and nearby displays with exaggerated seriousness.

The passersby obviously take notice of Haoran's antics, reacting with a mix of intrigue and weird looks. Those familiar with Haoran lightly chuckle and wave, Xingqiu happily waving back, while Chongyun just sighs.

Haoran: "That smell..." He dramatically sniffs, perking his head up as he shifts left and right. "It's quite suspicious... To be so overpowering, even amongst all these people!"

Xingqiu: "Could you be refering to 'Scent of Spring'? Miss Ying'er's perfumes do have quite the strong aroma."

Haoran: "Suspicious! ... But it surely has nothing to do with Little Lulu's Stonee plush, so let's move on..."

Chongyun: "You're going to ignore it just because you don't like the smell?"

Haoran looks away from the perfume shop, holding his nose while grimacing.

Haoran: "Ugh... Even The Great Detective Haoran has his weaknesses... Nothing will make me want to go anywhere near tha-..."

"Good day, Miss Ying'er."

A young woman approaches the perfume shop, her steps graceful as a faint jingling from her accessories accompany her.

Haoran: "A-ah, it's Miss Yun Jin!" He exclaims in excitement, practically tripping over himself as he dashes toward her.

Xingqiu chuckles and Chongyun shakes his head, before slowly following him.

Yun Jin: "Oh, if it isn't Haoran! Greetings." She says with her typical calm and confident smile. "I already told you you can just call me Yun Jin, y'know."

Haoran: "S-surely, you jest! For someone like me to address you so informally would be..."

Yun Jin: "Oh? But you are a 'Great Detective', no?" She arches an eyebrow. "If anything, shouldn't I be the one to address you formally instead?"

Haoran: "W-well, I mean... Heheh..." His cheeks turn pink, scratching the back of his head.

Chongyun: "There sure are a lot of people that like to humor Haoran..." He mutters. "But why is he talking especially formally to Yun Jin?"

Xingqiu: "He's a really big fan of hers."

Yun Jin: "Yes, Haoran has attended almost every one of my performances."

Chongyun: "Oh? I didn't know you liked such things..."

Haoran: "Of course I do! Her shows are incredible~!" He says, eyes sparkling.

Yun Jin: "Thank you very much." She responds graciously, her composure not faltering despite his excitement.

Ying'er: "Hello there, Haoran. Interested in any of my perfume?"

Haoran: "Ah, that's right, I forgot!" He immediately plugs his nose again.

Chongyun: "How did you just forget about the smell...?"

Ying'er: "What, you don't like it? That's too bad." She laughs at Haoran's pained expression. "This scent is perfect for any lady... such a shame it's too strong for you to handle."

Yun Jin: She tilts her head, curious. "You don't like perfume?"

Haoran: "N-no. I simply... don't fancy such things."

Chongyun: "Hm? Isn't it obvious Haoran wouldn't be interested in something like this?"

Yun Jin: "Is that so?"

Xingqiu: "..."

Ying'er: "Well, if you change your mind..."

Haoran: "I won't! No way!"

Ying'er laughs again, before Xingqiu calmly cuts in.

Xingqiu: "Pardon me, but we're searching for Little Lulu's lost plush. It's a small Geo Slime, would either of you have seen it?"

Yun Jin: "Oh dear, Little Lulu lost something? How unfortunate..." She frowns softly.

Ying'er: "And on the day before Lantern Rite, too..."

Yun Jin: "Oh! But Hu Tao mentioned she'd be wandering around today, promoting the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor. Perhaps she might've seen it?"

Haoran: "Hu Tao?! Ick." He cringes upon hearing her name.

Chongyun: "Oh, right. You're... not very fond of Hu Tao, are you?"

Yun Jin: "Oh no, has she been teasing you again?"

Haoran: "When does she not?!" He crosses his arms with a huff. "Creep creep creeping around like some sort of ghost... I'd rather run into an actual ghost than her!"

Xingqiu: "Haha, be careful what you wish for, Haoran..."

Chongyun: "Hey, please don't joke about things like that, Xingqiu..."

Haoran: "Y-yes, please don't joke about things like that, Xingqiu!" He parrots in agreement.

Xingqiu: "Apologies." He chuckles lightly. "Well, given her profession, Hu Tao does speak of some rather morbid things at times. For instance..."

Haoran: "A-ah!" He flinches, slapping his hands over his ears and clamping his eyes shut. "N-no, stop! Don't remind me!"

Chongyun: "Please stop teasing him about such matters..."

Xingqiu: "But I wasn't trying to that time..." He frowns.

--

As the trio continues to wander around, Haoran's stomach suddenly growls.

Haoran: "Uuuh... Hungry..."

Chongyun: "Didn't you eat a whole box of dumplings not too long ago?"

Haoran: "The Great Detective Haoran cannot properly investigate on an empty stomach! Let's find a fine place to take a break and dine, gentlemen!" He states, dramatically pointing at nothing in particular.

Chongyun: "And... he ignored me."

Xingqiu: "Well, Wanmin Restaurant is right over there." He chuckles, gesturing over to the nearby spot. "Why not stop by and grab a quick bite before we continue our search?"

Chongyun: "I suppose we could also say hello to Xiangling while we're there..."

As he says this, Xiangling notices them from the restaurant doorway, waving at them happily, Xingqiu waving back in return.

Haoran: "A-ah!" He quickly spins around in a 180 degree circle, nearly tripping over his own feet as he stiffly marches away in the opposite direction.

Xingqiu: "Haoran, where are you going?"

Haoran: "We're in the middle of an important investigation, we don't have time to stop even for food!"

Chongyun: "But you said..."

Xiangling: "Hey!" She hollers, jogging up to the three of them, a small frown on her face. "Haoran, why are you avoiding the restaurant? Again?!"

Chongyun: "Again...?"

Haoran: "I'm not avoiding the restaurant, I'm avoiding you! Leave me be!"

Xiangling: "Why? Aren't you hungry?" She tilts her head, frown softening into a small smile. "I could whip something up for you in no time!"

Haoran: "Goodness, no! Stay away from me, you... psychotic culinary fiend!"

Xiangling: "H-huh? What did I do?! I just..."

Haoran: "You won't trick me! I know you're working together with that wretched banshee from the Funeral Parlor, to end my life!"

Xiangling: "B-but Hu Tao doesn't kill anyone..."

Xingqiu: "What happened? Why does he see you in such a negative light?"

Xiangling: "I have no idea. The last time he stopped by to eat, he was in pretty high spirits when I offered him some food. I ran out of Jueyun Chilis, so I added some Flaming Flower Stamens, Condensate from a Pyro Slime, and some nectar from a Pyro Whopperflower to give my dish some extra kick!"

Chongyun: "U-um, I feel like just one of those would be enough, right?" He recoils in horror. "T-that'd be like sticking your tongue in boiling hot lava..."

Xingqiu: "Yes, you've always preferred colder food, haven't you?"

Chongyun: "That... has nothing to do with this, Xingqiu..."

Haoran: "To think you'd make me consume Condensate from an adorable slime... Monster!"

Chongyun: "Wait, that's why you're upset?!"

"Hey, Xiangling! Could I get some grub to go?"

They all turn around, and see a familar face; a girl with wild, spiky hair and a guitar case slung over her shoulder.

Xiangling: "Of course, Xinyan! What do you want me to make?"

Haoran: "Ugh, just great. The noisy girl's here too..." He utters while grimacing, taking an exaggerated step back.

Xinyan: "Seriously, I just got here and you're already makin' a fuss? What's your problem, 'detective boy'?!"

The two of them plant their hands on their hips, glaring at each and making exaggerated growling sounds (for some reason).

Chongyun: "It seems like there's quite a lot of folks that Haoran gets along with, but there's also quite a few that... he doesn't."

Xingqiu: "Haoran, perhaps we should ask them if they've seen the plush too?" He suggests, trying to calm down his friend.

Haoran: "E-eh? Why?!" He whines.

Xingqiu: "As a detective, isn't it important to gather as many clues as possible?"

Haoran: "... Murgh..." He grumbles.

Chongyun: "Look, I'm not fully familiar with the relationship between you and the two of them, but as a 'great detective', your focus should be on helping Little Lulu find her lost plush, right? Don't be so childish."

Haoran: "I-I'm not! I...!" He pauses, before letting out a bitter sigh. "You're... right, I suppose. The cases of a great detective are often uphill battles..."

Chongyun: "I feel like you're being even more dramatic than usual about this..."

Haoran: "Fiiine... I'll ask them. At least Hu Tao isn't here, too..."

Xiangling: "Ah!" She suddenly points to something behind Haoran.

Haoran: "Huh? What is i-..."

"BOO!"

Haoran: "Kyaaah!" He shrieks, bolting towards the restaurant and hiding inside.

Xinyan: "Golly, that was such a loud, high-pitched scream! My ears are ringin'!" She claps her hands over them, while turning towards the source of 'the boo'. "Jeez Hu Tao, you always gotta freak him out like that?!"

Hu Tao: "He's such an easy one to scare, I just can't help myself~!" She sticks her tongue out playfully, wiggling her fingers like ghostly claws.

Xingqiu grins in amusement, while Chongyun simply sighs and shakes his head.

Chongyun: "I'm beginning to understand why Haoran's not very fond of you..."

Hu Tao: "Nonsense, Haoran and I are very good friends! Isn't that right, my dear detective-in-training?"

Haoran: "I am not a 'detective-in-training', I am The Great Detective Haoran!" He shouts, popping his head out from a restaurant window. "And we are most certainly not friends!"

Hu Tao: "Hey, quit hiding in there and come out! I didn't spook you that badly, did I?"

Haoran: "O-of course not! D-don't be ridiculous!"

He comes out hesitantly, slowly approaching them as he continues to nervously shiver.

Hu Tao: "What's the matter? Don't worry, I'm sure that ghost floating behind you won't bite~."

Haoran: "G-ghost?! Eeek!" He yelps, quickly hiding behind Chongyun, gripping his arm nervously.

Xinyan: "Seriously Hu Tao, that's enough, don't you think?" She scolds her, shaking her head. Hu Tao simply snickers in response.

Xiangling: "He screams louder than a girl..."

Chongyun: "U-uh, that kind of hurts, Haoran..."

Xinyan: "Calm down, detective boy. She's clearly just messin' with you, y'know?"

Haoran: "I, The Great Detective Haoran, am not afraid of your dumb ghosts!" He proclaims to Hu Tao, ignoring Xinyan. "Besides, Chongyun here is a professional, trained ghost hunter! He'll deal with any ghosts you send my way!"

Chongyun: "Um, I'm an exorcist, not a 'ghost hunter'..."

Haoran: "Huh? Is that not the same thing?"

Chongyun: "No, it's... never mind. Please let go of my arm."

Hu Tao: "By the way, what are all of you doing here gathered like this? You're not planning on holding a feast without me, are you?"

Xiangling: "If I was going to organize something like that, you'd be the first one I'd invite, Hu Tao!" She giggles. "I think Xingqiu mentioned something about a... plush?"

Xingqiu: "Ah yes, that's right." He nods. "Little Lulu lost a small slime plush, and we've been walking around Liyue Harbor searching for it."

Xiangling: "Oh no, really? Poor Little Lulu!"

Xinyan: "There's so many tourists and other folks here gettin' ready for Lantern Rite too. What a time to lose somethin'... That's rough."

Hu Tao: "Hm? A small slime plush? I think I heard Gaming mentioning he found something like that when I passed by him earlier..."

Haoran: "R-really?! Gaming did?" He exclaims happily. "Hah hah, that's my best friend for you... U-uh, I mean..." He clears his throat. "My most trusted assistant~!"

Haoran wastes no more time and dashes straight ahead, looking for his childhood friend.

Hu Tao: "... He didn't even ask me where I saw him..."

Xinyan: "He bolted fast enough to break the sound barrier..."

Chongyun: He sighs in disbelief. "What are we going to do? Try to chase after him?"

Xingqiu: "I don't think that would do us much good as this point." He answers, fighting off chuckles. "It might be best to circle around another way and see if we can find Gaming ourselves. Haoran... shouldn't be difficult to find again later."

Chongyun: "Alright... sounds good."

Xiangling: "Should we look for him, too?"

Xingqiu: "That's alright, we'll take care of it, thank you." He bows lightly. "Be seeing you, friends. Happy early Lantern Rite!"

Xiangling: "Come by again tomorrow! Maybe we will actually hold a feast together!"

Hu Tao: "Ooh, sounds great, I can't wait~!"

Xingqiu waves farewell to the three girls as he walks off with Chongyun.

--

Gaming: "Here you are, ma'am! Happy Lantern Rite!"

He says with a warm smile, after delivering a package to another client. He wipes his forehead with one arm, before placing his hands on his hips and looking around.

Gaming: "Phew, so many deliveries today. Well, Lantern Rite is tomorrow, so I shouldn't be too surprised..."

"Gamiiing!"

Gaming's eyes widen as someone hollers joyfully, practically charging towards him at the speed of a loose, runaway carriage hurdling down a steep hill.

Gaming: "Hao-... oof!"

He almost stumbles back as said person practically tackles him and pulls him into a tight embrace.

Gaming: "Haoran!? What are you doing?! And... here? Shouldn't you be...?"

Haoran: "I thought I'd go the entire day without getting to see you, even though I knew we'd both be spending almost all day working in Liyue Harbor!" He says happily, still clinging to him.

Gaming: "I-I'm sorry, but could you let go of me? You're... attracting attention..."

Passersby notice the two of them, some giggling and some giving them weird looks. Haoran's eyes snap open in realization before jumping back, blushing furiously.

Haoran: "U-uh... sorry about that..." He clears his throat, in an attempt to calm himself down. "I... got a bit too excited there..."

Gaming: "A bit...?" He sighs, but lets out a small smile. "Did you sneak away again to play? You're going to get in trouble if you don't stop doing this. And don't count on me to bail you out, especially since I'm in the middle of work myself..."

Haoran: "For your information, I didn't come here to 'play' or just to see you, Gaming." He crosses his arms with a huff, pouting. "I have an important reason for this!"

Gaming: "Do you now?"

Haoran: "You don't believe me, do you?"

Gaming: "Nope."

Haoran: He groans, before pointing at him dramatically. "Listen! I heard from a... 'not super reliable but hopefully one I can rely on this time' source, that you stumbled upon a Stonee Plush during your deliveries. Is that true?"

Gaming: "Oh? You mean this?" He asks, pulling out a small Geo slime plush from his pocket.

Haoran: "Yes! Yes, that's it! You really did find it!"

Gaming: "Yeah, I had a feeling you were the one who lost this. Turns out my hunch was right!"

Haoran: "Hmph." He glares at Gaming lightly. "It was Little Lulu that lost the plush, not me. I, The Great Detective Haoran, have been spending the past few hours investigating Liyue Harbor in order to locate it!"

Gaming: "R-really? So you weren't lying when you said you were doing something important..."

Haoran: "Of course not!"

Gaming: "Fine, fine, I'm sorry, okay?" He laughs nervously, shaking his head. "I won't doubt a 'great detective' like you again."

Haoran: "Good. I'm glad you understa-..."

Before he can finish, Haoran spots a figure approaching from across the square, one that makes him let out an audible gasp. His face turns pale as he instinctively hides behind Gaming, shivering in fear.

Gaming: "Haoran?! What's wro-..."

Gaming spots it as well, his face turning as white as Haoran's.

Gaming: "... O-oh no..."

--

Xingqiu: "Are you doing okay, Chongyun?"

Chongyun: "Hm?"

Xingqiu decides to ask Chongyun, while they're calmly walking through a bustling, lantern-lit street.

Xingqiu: "I was really hoping you'd take part in one of Haoran's 'cases' with me, because they're so much fun, but... I hope I didn't rile you up too much. I know how bad it can be for your yang energy..."

Chongyun: "Oh, that's what you meant. Don't worry, if a day like this was enough to rattle me that much, I'd probably never step foot out of my house!" He smiles faintly, reassuring him. "I've... gotten used to Haoran's antics by now. This is only the second or third time I've interacted with him, but he's not a difficult person to understand."

Xingqiu: "Does that mean you'd consider being his friend?"

Chongyun: "I'm... still not sure, to be honest. I'd like to, since you're so fond of him. But..."

Xingqiu: "Do you dislike him?"

Chongyun: "Hm... Well, no, I wouldn't say that..."

Xingqiu: "Then what do you think of him, truly? As a person. After today, and the previous times we've all spent time together."

Chongyun: "If you want my honest opinion..." He sighs. "His dramatic and over the top nature can be very... overwhelming."

Xingqiu: "Hm..."

Chongyun: "But... I can tell, underneath it all, he has a good heart. I think?"

Xingqiu laughs softly, before responding,

Xingqiu: "My, what a 'diplomatic' answer. You're not just saying that to spare my feelings, are you?"

Chongyun: "No... not exactly. It's more that I'd like to trust your judgment on people like him, so... If you feel he's worthy to be your friend, then I suppose I will as well."

Xingqiu: "Ah, I see. I'll take your word for it, then."

They walk in silence a few paces, the glow of the lanterns cascading above them.

Xingqiu: "'Worthy', huh? Yes, I'd think Haoran is certainly worthy of my friendship, indeed. Especially after our first meeting..."

Xingqiu covers his mouth, stifling giggles as he remembers. Chongyun raises and eyebrow curiously.

Chongyun: "By the way, how did you two even meet? And become friends?"

Xingqiu: "Oh, it's quite the interesting story! Have I never shared it with you?" He says with a spark of excitement. "We should have some time, so I'll tell you as we walk..."

~~

A few months ago...

Xingqiu is calmly sitting on a bench, silently reading.

"Excuse me! Would you happen to have any cases for me to solve?!"

"W-who are you? If you're selling something, I'm not interested!"

Xingqiu: "Hm?" He glances up at the nearby commotion. An unfamiliar boy around his age, dressed in fancy detective's garb, is trying to grab the attention of a passing couple, who's avoiding him instead.

Woman: "Honey, I'm not sure if he's selling anything. Maybe he's a performer from another region?"

Man: "Don't be fooled! He's just another swindler trying to rob me of my Mora, no doubt!"

As the couple "escapes", the boy slumps forward, hands on his knees with a heavy sigh.

Detective Boy: "Augh! Even here, I, The Great Detective Haoran, cannot find a single case to take on?! I managed to sneak off to this unfamiliar location... and for what?! It's the same thing all over Liyue, isn't it?"

Xingqiu: "Pardon me."

Haoran: "Huh?" He looks up, and sees Xingqiu slowly approach him.

Xingqiu: "That's some interesting garb you're wearing. Are you a traveler from Fontaine?"

Haoran's eyes light up in excitement at the question.

Haoran: "Y-you recognize my attire as Fontainian!? What a keen eye you have, my fine gentleman!" He dramatically swishes his cloak and adjusts his cap, now in a much better mood than before. "But alas, I had this attire imported. I am... but a Liyue native."

Xingqiu notices the wistful tone in Haoran's last line, and decides to ask,

Xingqiu: "Are you... not fond of Liyue?"

Haoran: "W-wha?" He pauses, taken aback a bit by the unexpected question. "Hm... well, it's not like I hate Liyue per se, but..."

Xingqiu: "But?" He tilts his head curiously.

Haoran: "It's just... Everywhere I go in this region, everything is always rather... dull. I mean, Mond has lots of Knights and adventurers, Inazuma has all sorts of festivals and interesting novels, and Fontaine..." His eyes light up again before continuing. "... has really cool court cases and detectives!"

Xingqiu: "I see. Every region is full of such interesting things. But so is Liyue, if you know where to look. For example, we have fun festivals too, like Lantern Rite."

Haoran: "Lantern Rite...?" He groans. "But during Lantern Rite, I'm always stuck..." He stops himself, shaking his head. "N-no, never mind..."

Xingqiu: "So, are you a detective? You look like one straight out of a mystery novel."

Haoran: "Indeed! Surely you've heard of the legendary Fontainian detective, Richard Howard. Famous for both his past cases and the many stories written based on his exploits..." He laughs cheerfully. "Many men aspire to become as great of a man as he once was... Even I was inspired as well, by both him and the culture of Fontaine itself... to become this region's first Great Detective!"

Xingqiu: "How interesting! We have a few detectives in Liyue, but none at all like you." He remarks, chuckling in amusement himself.

Haoran notices the book in Xingqiu's hand, and smiles.

Haoran: "Hm... You seem to enjoy novels as much as I."

Xingqiu: "Oh? Yes, that's right. So you noticed."

Haoran: "Naturally. Not even the most subtle of details escapes my eyes! For I am The Great Detective Haoran!"

Xingqiu: "I see! Of course. As expected of a 'great detective'."

Haoran: "Uh huh! I'm glad you understand."

Xingqiu: "I was simply taking a break on that bench, pondering about... things as I read this novel."

Haoran: "'Take a break'? 'Pondering about things'?" He raises an eyebrow with intrigue.

Xingqiu: "Yes. I decided to take a walk after... working on something for a while."

Haoran: "'Working on something', huh...?" He brings a hand to his chin, lost in thought.

Xingqiu: "I apologize, but I can't share with you what exactly that 'something' is..."

Haoran: "There's no need to, as I, The Great Detective Haoran, can figure it out on my own!" He states, placing his hands on his hips confidently.

Xingqiu: "Oh? Is that so?"

Haoran: "That novel... you are actually its author, are you not?!"

Xingqiu: "H-huh?!" His eyes widen, stepping back in shock from his 'deduction'.

Haoran: "That cover... I'm familiar with that style; it reminds me of the novels penned by 'Zhenyu'. And yet I'm not at all familiar with that particular one you're holding... So it must be a brand new release!" He says while adjusting his cap with a confident flair.

Xingqiu: "W-why yes, it is a brand new release, but..."

Haoran: "You mentioned you were 'pondering' while reading it. Why would you be thinking of other things while reading a novel... especially a new release? It is not because you were distracted... but because you were proofreading your own novel! Weren't you?!"

Haoran dramatically points at Xingqiu, silence between them for a few seconds.

Xingqiu: "... Amazing..."

Haoran: "..."

Xingqiu: "You... actually managed to figure out that I am Zhenyu?! I've been trying so hard to keep it hidden, too!"

Haoran: "... Eh?" He blinks a few times, standing there frozen in the same position.

Xingqiu: "Truth be told, I hadn't realized just how great of a detective you were at first... To think you'd see through me like that... and so quickly! I am most impressed!"

Haoran: "... Eh?" He tilts his head a bit, still frozen in the same position. "I... got it right?"

Xingqiu: "Yes, you did. What an excellent deduction!"

Haoran blinks a few more times in bewilderment, before dramatically swishing his cloak and adjusting his cap again.

Haoran: "Why yes, of course I got it right! Because nothing escapes the keen eyes of The Great Detective Haoran! Hah hah!"

Xingqiu proceeds to burst into laughter, startling Haoran even more.

Xingqiu: "Y-you are... such an interesting person!"

Haoran: "R-really?"

Xingqiu: He nods, offering a hand out to shake. "My name is Xingqiu. Let's be friends!"

Haoran: "Friends?" He blushes happily for a second, before looking down sadly. "But... you sure? A lot of people think I'm... a weirdo, and a nuisance..."

Xingqiu: "Of course I'm sure! I'd love to see you solve any more grand cases." He responds while keeping his earlier demeanor.

Haoran: "Okay!" He accepts his hand, a big smile on his face.

~~

Having finished telling Chongyun how he first met Haoran, Xingqiu looks away while stifling some more giggles.

Chongyun: "What an... interesting story."

Xingqiu: "Indeed. How could I not want to befriend someone so fun?"

Chongyun: "But even after telling me that, I know even less of what to make of Haoran. It seems like he 'guessed right', but by complete accident, right?"

Xingqiu: "Hm... who knows?"

Chongyun: "Huh?"

Xingqiu: "Perhaps he has really good intuition, but just lacks self-confidence. Or maybe he did just get lucky? Either way, I want to support him."

Chongyun: "Not to be rude, but... why?"

Xingqiu: "I feel his desire to be a 'great detective' is genuine. I don't think he sees it all as a game despite how... eccentric he is. I believe he'll become a genuinely fantastic sleuth in the future, and I want to help him reach that future."

Chongyun: "... Because you're his friend?"

Xingqiu: "Yes. And it'd also be really interesting if someone like him became a famous, skilled detective known all throughout Liyue, don't you think?"

Xingqiu chuckles some more, Chongyun just shrugging.

Chongyun: "I wonder if you just see all this as a game..."

Xingqiu and Chongyun turn a corner and enter an open square.

Chongyun: "Strange... why are there so few people gathered here?"

Xingqiu suddenly stops in his tracks, furrowing his brow with a unusually serious look on his face.

Chongyun: "Xingqiu, what's wrong?"

Xingqiu: "... It's that man again."

Angry Man: "Argh, I finally found you! Where have you been all this time, you troublemaking child of mine?!"

Chongyun: "Oh, it's Mr. Fu again. I suppose he found his daughter, then? Let's turn back, Xingqiu..."

Xingqiu: "N-no, the one he's yelling at is..."

Before Fu is none other than Haoran, looking down at the ground, shoulders shaking, quietly sobbing. Gaming is standing next to Haoran, tense and silent.

Fu: "Why do you always have to disappear when I ask you to help with work? And on the day before Lantern Rite, no less!"

Haoran: "B-but Papa, I have a good reason this time! I swear...!"

Fu: "No more of your excuses!" He snaps, cutting Haoran off. "I only let you freely pursue your 'detective stuff' for your mother's sake... but enough is enough! Clearly we've been spoiling you too much!"

Gaming: "E-excuse me, Mr. Fu, but Haolan really..."

Fu: "Stay out of this, Gaming. I appreciate you looking after her all this time, but I've had it with her rebellious attitude!"

Chongyun: "W-what is happening right now? I'm so confused... It was his daughter he was looking for, right?"

Xingqiu: He crosses his arms while closing his eyes, trying to remain composed. "... I was afraid of this."

Chongyun: "A-afraid of what? Xingqiu, what's going on?!"

Gaming's eyes widen as he glances over at Xingqiu and Chongyun, who are awkwardly standing there watching everything. Haoran notices them too, face turning pale. Haoran curls up on the ground, not wanting to look at anyone.

Fu: "Who are you two?" He asks with a grunt, finally noticing them also.

Xingqiu: "P-pardon us, it seems we've arrived at a bad time..."

Fu: "Are you both friends of my daughter as well?"

Chongyun: "U-uh..." He stiffens unnervingly at his question. "So, your daughter is...? W-wait, what? That doesn't make any..."

Gaming's eyes widen even more, noticing a familiar woman rushing towards them in a huff.

"Weimin, what are you doing?! I'm sure everyone all the way in Sumeru can hear your shouting!"

Fu Weimin: "M-Meiling?! What are you doing here?!"

Fu Meiling: "I kept hearing about a loud, hollering man frantically looking for his missing daughter! Who else would that be but you?!" She places her hands on her hips, glaring at him crossly.

Fu Weimin: "Don't act like I'm solely at fault... Meiling, you spoil our daughter way too much! Haolan snuck off when she was supposed to be helping me with work... again!"

She notices Haoran curled up next to her, and the other three looking at the exchange awkwardly. Her anger towards her husband grows further.

Fu Meiling: "It's Lantern Rite! She should be having fun with her friends, not working! And also..." She slaps Weimin across the face. "How many times do I have to tell you not to call her 'Haolan' or 'my daughter' in public!? You remember what we agreed on, don't you?"

Fu Weimin: "It's exactly because of things like this that she never takes her responsibilities seriously!"

Fu Meiling: "I'm doing my best to support her dreams! As her father, you should be doing the same!"

Haolan: "That's enough!" She suddenly cries, no longer curled up on the ground, tears running down her face. "Mama, Papa, please stop! I don't want you both to argue because of me again!"

Weimin & Meiling: "H-Haolan..."

Haolan: "F-fine, I get it! I'm sorry, okay?! I'll help you with your dumb tour guide stuff, just stop fighting already!"

Fu Weimin: "Haolan, listen." He says to her with a calmer voice. "It's not that I don't approve of you taking your own path. I simply want you to be aware of your responsibilities, and not go off playing all the time..."

Xingqiu decides to step forward to say something, but is surprised when Chongyun approaches Fu Weimin first.

Chongyun: "Excuse me for interrupting, but... Your, uh... child hasn't been 'playing'. Haoran was helping someone find a lost item."

Xingqiu: "... Indeed, what you see as just some game is much more than that." He adds, nodding. "Detective work is work as well."

Haolan: "C-Chongyun... Xingqiu..." She utters, sniffling.

Fu Weimin: "I-is that so...?"

Fu Meiling: "It's like I said. You say I spoil her, but I think you're the one that's too harsh on Haolan. She has her own duties to fulfill as a 'great detective', right?" She winks to her daughter, a small smile appearing on Haolan's face in response.

Fu Weimin: He sighs, shaking his head. "Urgh... alright, fine. I'll let it slide this time. But the next time I ask you for your help with work, don't go wandering off to do your own thing instead. Understood?"

Haolan: "Y-yes, Papa..."

With that, Weimin takes his leave, leaving the others in awkward silence for a bit.

Fu Meiling: "What fine young gentlemen you are! Thank you so much for defending my dear Haolan~!" She clasps her hands together, smiling warmly at them.

Chongyun: "Don't mention it... But..."

Gaming: "I'm guessing you... have some questions?"

Chongyun: "That'd be an understatement..."

Haolan: "I'm... ashamed you both had to see such a thing..." She covers her face with her detective's cap in shame. "But still, I thank you immensely for... standing up for me like that..."

Xingqiu: "No thanks are necessary, my friend. I merely spoke the truth." He happily places a hand on Chongyun's shoulder. "But Chongyun stepped forward and spoke up for you before I could do so first!"

Chongyun: "Well, um... I couldn't just stand there and do nothing..." He scratches the back of his head, blushing. "We're... friends after all, right?"

Haolan: She brightens up, smiling warmly. "Thank you, Chongyun!"

Chongyun: "Don't mention it, but... uh..." He pauses, struggling a bit on what to say next. "Haoran? You're a... girl?"

Haolan: "Huh? Oh, yes." She says casually, as if it's no big deal.

Gaming: "Sorry about keeping this from both of you. I'm sure this must be pretty confusing..."

Chongyun: "So, you knew about this too, then?"

Xingqiu: "I figured as much myself." He adds with a nod. "Rather, I had a hunch about it, at least."

Chongyun: "S-seriously?! How?"

Xingqiu: "Haoran mentioned to me once, having a father that works as a tour guide in Liyue Harbor. When we heard the man yell about his 'daughter' going missing, I suspected she might either be Haoran's sister, or..."

Chongyun: "Haoran himself. Or... herself, I suppose?" He shakes his head in confusion. "I'm sorry, but could you explain to us what this is all about? Why even hide this from us in the first place...?"

Haolan: "Apologies, Chongyun. For a great detective like myself, the last thing I want to do is keep secrets like this. Especially from my own comrades..." She crosses her arms, frowning. "But if I didn't, I wouldn't be able to go out and be a great detective at all..."

Xingqiu: "What do you mean?"

Fu Meiling: "I'm very sorry you two, this was all my doing." She explains calmly. "Ever since she was little, Haolan's always loved detective stories. I'd often see her 'playing detective' with Gaming and a couple other boys... None of the girls had any interest in such things, however; if anything, it alienated her from them. So, because of that, even now she gets along a lot better with boys than girls. I don't have an issue with that necessarily, but..."

She turns to Gaming.

Fu Meiling: "If I could have Gaming watch over her at all times, I'd have nothing to worry about, but... He's gotten busier with his own work and other duties lately, and Haolan's love for adventuring has only grown over time. Not to mention she can be rather... oblivious when it comes to certain matters. Haolan doesn't have a Vision, and has never trained in any way to defend herself, so... this is the only thing I could think of to help keep her safe."

Gaming: "She told me about it as soon as she came up with this... 'idea'. Even now, I don't like it very much, but since it's for the sake of protecting Haolan, I decided to go along with it anyway..."

Fu Meiling: "I hope you can understand that... As her mother, I'm simply afraid she may be... attacked by wolves, so to speak."

Haolan: "Wolves?" She tilts her head in confusion. "I've seen the wild boar here and there when going out, but I've never run into any wolves, Mama..."

Xingqiu: "... Ah, I see..."

Chongyun: "Y-yeah, I think I get it now..."

Haolan: "Huh? Get what?"

Gaming sighs, shaking his head.

Haolan: "There's no need to worry about me! I've even encountered Hilichurls and Slimes during my outings! And I've managed to escape from them, no problem! I've only gotten a few scrapes here and there at worst."

Fu Meiling: "... Gaming, sweetie, please don't let my daughter go out on her own anymore..."

Gaming: "U-understood, Mrs. Fu..."

Haolan: "So, anyhow, Mama... e-erm, my mother told me I had to keep up this ruse, or she wouldn't allow me to go out and fulfill my dream of being a great detective. Even though I still don't understand why I have to do it..." She shrugs, finding it more annoying than anything.

Chongyun: "I get it..."

Xingqiu: "Me too."

Haolan: "You do?! In that case, could you explain it to me?"

Chongyun: "I get it."

Xingqiu: "Me too."

Haolan: "You both already said that!"

Gaming: "Heheh... So, Xingqiu, Chongyun, I'm sorry to have to ask this, but you wouldn't mind keeping this all a secret, would you?"

Xingqiu: "As you said, as it's for the sake of protecting her, I promise to keep my lips sealed on the matter as well."

Chongyun: "I will too, I guess... Does anyone else know about this?"

Gaming: "No, I don't believe so..." He pauses. "U-uh, with one possible exception..."

Xingqiu: "Could it be... Miss Mona Megistus?"

Chongyun: "Mona... Megistus?" He questions.

Xingqiu: "I told you about her the other day, didn't I? You really missed out on an incredible deduction, Chongyun!"

Chongyun: "Yeah, yeah, that's right..."

Haolan: "Hm? Why would she know about it, Gaming?"

Gaming: "Remember when she performed that reading on you? She was confused about the name that showed up."

Xingqiu: "Ah, of course. I noticed you've been calling her 'Haolan'. Which means Haoran isn't your actual name, correct?"

Chongyun: "Now that you mention it, Haoran is a boy's name, so..."

Haolan: "Heh heh, and it's a name I came up with myself!" She puffs out her chest proudly, a smug smirk on her face. "Since I'm not able to use my real name publicly for the sake of my cover (for some reason), I came up with Haoran to use instead! A perfectly grandiose name for a great detective like myself, is it not?"

Chongyun: "U-um... But you only changed one letter..." He utters in disbelief.

Fu Meiling: "Thanks a ton boys, for being so supportive of my daughter and her dreams. I'm so glad she has such great friends now!" She says gleefully, before dramatically pointing at them. "But... don't go falling for her, y'hear? I'm not ready to give Haolan up to any of you just yet!"

Gaming: "M-Mrs. Fu, don't be ridiculous, none of us see her like that! R-right, you two?"

Xingqiu and Chongyun nod profusely, Mrs. Fu laughing in response to their reactions.

Fu Meiling: "Ha hah, relax! I was only teasing."

Haolan: "'Fall for'...? What does that mean?" She asks, tilting her head in confusion.

Chongyun: "... Is your head only full of detective stuff, or what?"

Xingqiu: "Oh, speaking of which, did you manage to confirm if Gaming found the slime plush?"

Haolan: "Yep! Which means we just need to look for Little Lulu and give it back to her!"

Fu Meiling: "Do you all need to get back to your... detective work? Okay then, have fun, sweeties! Happy Lantern Rite!"

--

After a bit of walking, the four locate Little Lulu again, Haolan wasting no time in holding up the plush before her.

Little Lulu: "Ah! You really found it!"

Haolan: "Indeed! I, The Great Detective Haoran, have utilized my amazing sleuthing prowess to locate your Stonee Plush!"

Chongyun: "Well, actually, Gaming was the one that found it..."

Haolan: "Indeed! I, The Great Detective Haoran, have utilized my amazing sleuthing prowess to locate Gaming, who found your Stonee Plush!"

Chongyun: "Well, actually, Hu Tao was the one who told us Gaming found it..."

Haolan: "Indeed! I, The Great Detective Haoran, have utilized my amazing sleuthing prowess to locate Hu Tao, who located Gaming, who found your Stonee Plush!"

Chongyun: "Well, actually..." He sighs, stopping himself. "Never mind..."

Little Lulu: "Thank you so much for finding it for me, great detective. Since I got in a fight with the girls, Little Fei and Little Meng are probably going to be my only friends ever..."

Haolan: "Don't worry, I'm sure you'll be able to make lots more friends!" She reassures her, patting her head comfortingly. "And even if you can't, you already have two really good friends already, right? Who cares if you don't have a lot, that's more than enough!"

Little Lulu: "Really? Even though they're both boys?"

Haolan: "Of course! Look, those three are my only friends, and they're all boys, too!"

Little Lulu: "Detective Haoran, you're so silly!" She giggles. "You're also a boy!"

Haolan: "H-huh? Oh, yes. Of course!"

Haolan laughs as Gaming, Xingqiu, and Chongyun watch over her from the sidelines.

Chongyun: "Will... Haolan be okay, I wonder?"

Gaming: "Well, with you two supporting her now, it's given me a bigger peace of mind."

Chongyun: "Having to watch over her by yourself before now must've been... quite the headache."

Gaming: "Nah. She's my best friend, it's no trouble at all!"

Xingqiu: "... Honestly, I feel like she'll need our support a lot less than you think."

Gaming & Chongyun: "Huh?"

Xingqiu gestures towards Haolan with a nod, her laughing and smiling as she continues to comfort Little Lulu, Little Lulu grinning joyfully as well.

Chapter End