Back in Business (II)

Back in Business (II) is an Adventure Mission from the Aurum Alley's Hustle and Bustle event.
==Steps==
#Speak with Mingxi
#Head to the Food Stall and collect the snacks Mingxi ordered
#Talk with Sushang at the docks
#Investigate Skott's goods
#Learn how to negotiate at Oldies Depot
#Confirm the negotiation materials and speak with Mingxi
#Head to the docks and assist the merchant guild to earn funds
#Head to Oldies Depot and learn about the president's viewpoint
#Speak with Yukong
#Speak with Mr. Xiao at Artistry Hardware
#Leave Artistry Hardware and plan your next step
#Fix the broken cycrane as an apprentice
==Dialogue==
===Speak with Mingxi===
;(Talk to Mingxi)
:Mingxi: In order to reward you and Sushang for your long hours of work, the Merchant Guild has ordered some gourmet snacks from Tall Auntie, so you can rest for a bit and prepare for the revival of Aurum Alley.
===Head to the Food Stall and collect the snacks Mingxi ordered===
;(Talk to Tall Auntie)
:Tall Auntie: Miss Secretary asked me to prepare some refreshments for you earlier. Make yourselves comfortable — I'll bring them out shortly.
:
----
:
----
===Talk with Sushang at the docks===
;(Approach the docks)
:Sushang: You're just in time — everyone is asking this IPC goon for an explanation!
:IPC Sales Rep: Calling someone an "IPC goon" isn't very becoming of a Cloud Knight now, is it?
:IPC Sales Rep: I'm not here today as a representative of the IPC, I'm just a tourist. You can just call me Skott.
: Hello, Skott.
::Skott: You see, this understands etiquette.
: Hello, IPC goon.
::Skott: ...I have no quarrel with you.
:Skott: Hmph, can't a man come here to deliver a package without being surrounded?
:Sushang: There's something wrong with the stuff this guy is shipping — it's causing damage to other people's goods, and our dock here is liable for the compensation...
: We want to check your courier package.
: Would you like to explain yourself?
:Skott: Ha...? Speak louder, I can't quite hear you. Is this how you treat guests in Aurum Alley?
:Sushang: Let's open that package right here, right now — then we'll see what he's hiding!
:Skott: I'd be careful if I were you — if you damage my goods, you'll have to pay for them.
: What if we discover a serious issue with your package?
::Skott: Ha...? A serious issue? I think you'll be the ones with the serious issue!
: We can compensate you for any damages. Open it.
::Skott: Ha...? Did I hear that right? said can afford to pay for it. What a surprise.
:Sushang: No need to make this difficult. Let's open it.
:Sushang and workers place Skott's package on the floor.
===Investigate Skott's goods===
:(Trailblazer): Let's check and see if there's anything suspicious.
----
;(Talk to Skott, optional)
:Skott: I'd be careful if I were you — if you damage my goods, you'll have to pay for them.
;(Talk to Mingxi, optional)
:Mingxi is a bit nervous. She's not sure how to proceed.
;(Talk to Sushang, optional)
:Sushang: Let's open that package right here, right now — then we'll see what he's hiding!
----
;(Check Clay Vase)
:Intricate porcelain vase that can be dated to the distant past. Its well-balanced proportion and the naturally-formed patterns on its body make it stand out from the rest of its kind. Such an expensive and brittle vase shouldn't have been sent here.
;(Check Camphor-Wood Display Shelf)
:A beautiful antiques display shelf with sober color and an elegant contour. Its classic style lends itself an air of serenity. The shelf provides a suitable home for brushes and inkstones and pulls you away from the mundane hustle.
;(Check Golden Cloud Toad)
:A crucible named "Golden Cloud Toad". Considering how many hostile ingenia you've encountered, this one is suspiciously quiet.
:Wait, you sense a malicious intent brewing in the air. A fight is imminent. As expected, the toad springs to life.
:It's not that much of a threat for you, but the silent screaming of the fragile goods nearby is too loud to be ignored.
;(Begin battle against )
----
;(After battle)
:Sushang: You tampered with this ingenium so that it caused damage to other goods on the freight skiff.
:Skott: Ha...? Speak louder, I can't quite hear you.
: You still deny it when faced with conclusive evidence?
:Skott: Conclusive evidence? Deny?
:Skott: Here, look carefully — this old piece of junk doesn't even belong to me.
:Sushang: What!?
:Skott: If you don't believe me, just ask the dock workers.
:Timid Dock Worker: I—If I may, h—he's telling the truth. This Golden Cloud Toad does not belong to Mr. Skott.
:Sushang: Then why was the toad here in the first place?
:Timid Dock Worker: ...
:Skott: That's your problem, not mine!
:Skott: Now let me ask you a question — my vase was almost smashed to pieces — what do you say about that?
: "Almost" being the operative word...
::Skott: Oh? You wanted it to be broken?
: The inspection is over. We'll send the goods on their way.
::Skott: Ha...? Did I hear that right?
:Skott: After making a big scene like that, don't you owe me an apology?
:Sushang: I... I guess we do.
:Skott: Well...? Are you going to apologize or not?
:Sushang: ...Sorry, sir.
:Skott: For this kind of barbarity, a single apology won't ever be enough. Just think of this as a practice round for later, hahahaha.
----
:Sushang: Grrrr...
: If it were me, I wouldn't be apologizing for anything.
::Sushang: If it were you, you wouldn't have fallen for his trap.
: He fooled us. That's all there is to it.
::Sushang: He fooled us this once, but he won't fool us next time.
: Grrrrrrrr...
::Sushang: Grrrrrrrrrrrr...
:Mingxi: Sorry, I should've stepped in.
:Sushang: My mother always told me that as long as I honed my skills, I'd be able to deal with any situation... Seems I've still got honing to do.
:Mingxi: Before the payment due date arrives, I'm going to teach you two how to fight — with words! Follow me — we're going to see the president.
===Learn how to negotiate at Oldies Depot===
;(Talk to Lianyan)
:Lianyan: Miss Secretary said that you want to learn how to get the upper hand in an argument. Is that right?
: Lianyan, you seem more like a secretary than Miss Secretary.
::Lianyan: I'm no secretary — more of a messenger.
: When are we gonna get to see the president?
::Lianyan: The president agreed to meet with you all later, but now is not the time.
:Lianyan: The president is aware of recent events and is willing to pass on some simple negotiation skills to you.
:Lianyan: Rule one: . Just as Cloud Knights ready their weapons before entering battle, you should have your ace card ready before you walk up to the negotiating table.
:Lianyan: I will present you with a few items, and you need to examine them carefully.
: A courier package?
::Lianyan: This is the box that was opened earlier at the dock — the one containing the Golden Cloud Toad. The name and contact information of the sender were deliberately crossed out, but records from the Heron Express show that the sender is A-Feng.
: Income and expenditure records?
::Lianyan: The records show that a dock worker named A-Feng recently received credit points remitted by the IPC, spaced out over several installments.
:: How did you obtain all these?
:::Lianyan: The president has their ways.
:: Suspicious...
: I've looked over everything.
:Lianyan: Rule Two: . These documents can only be truly effective when your opponent reveals a weak spot.
:Lianyan: How about this — I've prepared a little practice exercise for you. Mr. A-Feng, over here please.
:Sushang: What exactly does the president have up their sleeve...
:A-Feng: I don't know anything. I don't have anything to say.
;(Opens Debate tutorial)
;(Starts Debate)
:A-Feng: My name's A-Feng — I was the one who brought out the box containing the Golden Cloud Toad.
: (Continue questioning)
::(Trailblazer): I didn't see any boxes, only the Golden Cloud Toad.
::A-Feng: If goods need to be inspected, we remove the packaging ahead of time — you wouldn't want to do all that work yourself, would you?
: (Present evidence) 
::(Trailblazer): Take a look at this.
::A-Feng: This has nothing to do with the topic at hand.
: (Present evidence) 
::(Trailblazer): Take a look at this.
::A-Feng: This has nothing to do with the topic at hand.
;(Next)
:A-Feng: I was told to move something, and I did. I had no knowledge of the presence of an ingenium. This matter has nothing to do with me.
: (Continue questioning)
::(Trailblazer): Why do you emphasize that this matter has nothing to do with you?
::A-Feng: I just want to avoid any misunderstanding, in case someone has it in their head that I intentionally misplaced an item...
::(Trailblazer): 
: (Present evidence) 
::(Trailblazer): I think this has a lot to do with you...
::Sushang: Records from Heron Express show that this container was sent by a person named "A-Feng." What do you have to say about that?
::A-Feng: Ah! Th—That... must be some kind of mistake.
:;(Debate successful!)
: (Present evidence) 
::(Trailblazer): Take a look at this.
::A-Feng: This has nothing to do with the topic at hand.
;(Next)
:A-Feng: I'm a dock worker, after all. How could I conspire with the IPC?
: (Continue questioning)
::(Trailblazer): Does being a dock worker mean that person can't conspire with the IPC?
::A-Feng: Everyone knows the IPC wants to use the dock debt to discredit the Merchant Guild. The Merchant Guild are the ones who gave me a job, not the IPC — why would I side with them?
::(Trailblazer): 
: (Present evidence) 
::(Trailblazer): Take a look at this.
::A-Feng: This has nothing to do with the topic at hand.
: (Present evidence) 
::(Trailblazer): Take a look at this.
::Sushang: You received payments from the IPC, and in exchange you sabotaged the shipping operations at the dock.
::A-Feng: I...
:;(Debate successful!)
;(Next)
:A-Feng was being shifty and avoidant, there seems to be something off about the way he's speaking...
: Ask again and see what happens...
----
:A-Feng: Alright, alright, enough already!
:A-Feng: The IPC was worried that the lease for the dock would be paid off, so they had me move some things around... is that so terrible?
:A-Feng: Is letting the IPC take over management of Aurum Alley such a bad thing? Besides, what's it to you if I make some extra money?
:Mingxi: Mr. A-Feng... Our goal at the Merchant Guild is to help make Aurum Alley a better place for everyone. Why would you work against that?
:A-Feng: Keep your heads in the sand if you like, but it's only a matter of time before Aurum Alley becomes another warehouse for the IPC!
: Be a man! Do the right thing!
::Sushang: That's right! You shouldn't be betraying your fellow workers for a quick profit.
: But the business on the dock is flourishing.
::A-Feng: Hmph, even if you pay back the debt, where are you gonna get enough money to win the bid for Aurum Alley?
: Well, actually, I side with the IPC as well.
::A-Feng: Hmph, what do you take me for? I'm not falling for that.
:Lianyan: It seems that the truth has come out. Here is Mr. A-Feng's testimony — it may come in useful later.
:Mingxi: The payment for the dock is ready now. If you're ready for the next round of negotiations, come and see me at the dock.
:Sushang: Right, that guy's gonna be sorry for everything he's done. Time we got a public apology!
;(Obtained )
===Confirm the negotiation materials and speak with Mingxi===
;(Talk to Skott, optional)
:Skott chooses to ignore your presence, and in return, you can choose to disdain him.
;(Talk to Xikui, optional)
:You may have met Miss Xikui at the Sky-Faring Commission, but due to her commitment to impartiality, she refrains from engaging in private conversations with you at the moment.
----
;(Talk to Mingxi)
:Mingxi: The IPC representative has arrived, and I've called for Miss Xikui from the Sky-Faring Commission to act as a notary.
: I'm ready.
::Sushang: Remember, this is a war of words... over to you.
::Mingxi: Before we start, let's review the documents we have.
:: The payment for the dock?
:::Mingxi: We reached the required amount by the repayment date. This is the basis for our right to continue negotiations and is a testament to the business viability of Aurum Alley.
:: The leasing contract for the dock?
:::Mingxi: When the Aurum Alley dock went up for public bid, the IPC won the bid using its interstellar trade resources and extensive capital. Then the IPC leased the dock out to the Aurum Alley Merchant Guild for management and operations.
:::Mingxi: This contract can prove that the Merchant Guild has legitimate rights to operate the dock.
:: The dock worker's testimony?
:::Mingxi: The testimony of dock worker A-Feng, who has admitted to disrupting the normal operations of the dock in exchange for payment from the IPC.
:: I've looked over everything.
::Mingxi: Let's go. The notary from the Sky-Faring Commission is already waiting for us.
: I'm not ready yet.
----
:Xikui: On behalf of the Sky-Faring Commission, I am here to preside over the leasing dispute between the IPC and Aurum Alley Merchant Guild.
:Skott: Is there anything left to dispute? I'll cut to the chase — the Merchant Guild should have removed itself from Aurum Alley a long time ago.
:Sushang: Couldn't the IPC choose a sane person to represent them?
:Skott: Ha...? Say that a little louder, I can't quite hear you.
:Sushang: I said: The — IPC — should — send — someone — else!
:Skott: Goodness! There's no need to shout, little miss feisty — my ears are ringing!
:Skott: Hmph, you should be saving your voice for your public apology...
:Skott: As the representative of the IPC, my presence in this negotiation is legal, reasonable and sensible! Who do you plan on sending to the battlefield? A random Cloud Knight? That cowardly president who's afraid to even show their face?
:Skott: Or how about that kid who got dragged into this fiasco at the last minute, walking around like owes someone 50 credits?
:Xikui: ...That's enough, Representative Skott. Please state the IPC's side of the case.
;(Starts Debate)
:Skott: The IPC specially leased operations of the dock to Aurum Alley Merchant Guild in the hopes of seeking common interest and development.
: (Continue questioning)
::(Trailblazer): Why couldn't the IPC operate the dock from the beginning?
::Skott: Oh, are you implying that the IPC was setting a trap for the Merchant Guild?
::Skott: You're saying the IPC leased the dock to the Merchant Guild — who mismanaged it — in order to destroy the Merchant Guild's credibility?
::Sushang: That was definitely your plan all along.
::Skott: So you admit that the Merchant Guild mismanaged the dock.
::Sushang: Ughhhh... this guy...
;(Next)
:Skott: But the Merchant Guild refused to cooperate with the major shops in Aurum Alley, and the once prosperous dock is now desolate.
: (Continue questioning)
::(Trailblazer): The Merchant Guild has never refused to work with any shops in Aurum Alley.
::Skott: Never refused? Then let me ask you — how many shops are currently in your logistics network?
::Sushang: There will be a lot more later.
::Skott: Later? How much later? For the Xianzhou, does "later" mean 500 years? Haha, can the shop owners here wait that long?
::Sushang: Uh... ten years? Twenty years? Psst, (Trailblazer), what should I say? Is twenty about right?
;(Next)
:Skott: The inefficient shipping and low volume of transactions at the Aurum Alley dock — which did not create any value at all — are clear evidence of poor management.
: (Continue questioning)
::(Trailblazer): The dock has improved shipping efficiency and transaction volume is increasing.
::Skott: Ha...? You guys didn't think that this transaction volume would be enough, did you?
::Skott: The shopkeepers in Aurum Alley aren't here to play house with you — we're all trying to turn a profit.
;(Next)
:Skott: Coupled with the Merchant Guild's inability to pay the rent, we believe the Guild should voluntarily relinquish operating rights to the dock and pay additional compensation.
: (Continue questioning)
::(Trailblazer): What makes you think we can't afford to pay the lease?
::Skott: If you have the necessary funds, .
: (Present evidence) 
::(Trailblazer): Take a look at this.
::Skott: Ha...? What's this about? Get that out of here.
: (Present evidence) 
::(Trailblazer): We've already paid back the lease.
::Mingxi: These are the funds from Aurum Alley Merchant Guild. The Guild has turned a profit and is able to pay back what it owes.
::Skott: Wh—What? You already paid back the lease? How!?
::Xikui: The documentation provided by Aurum Alley Merchant Guild is true and credible, and according to the lease contract between the two parties, the Merchant Guild still holds the rights to operate the dock.
::Xikui: Next order of business — the Merchant Guild has accused Representative Skott of secretly sabotaging dock operations. Do you have anything to say about that?
:;(Continue to next section)
: (Present evidence) 
::(Trailblazer): Take a look at this.
::Skott: Ha...? What's this about? Get that out of here.
;(Next)
:Despite Skott's confident demeanor, there are undoubtedly flaws in his arguments.
: Ask again and see what happens...
----
:Skott: Don't be so slanderous! Why would I stoop so low? What do the frequent accidents at this dock have to do with me?
: (Continue questioning)
::(Trailblazer): How did you know about the frequent accidents at the dock?
::Skott: I use the shipping services too, you know — do you have any idea how often my packages are damaged in transit?
::Sushang: Don't feign ignorance — isn't that all by your own design?
;(Next)
:Skott: Besides, I'm not even involved in shipping operations — how could I possibly buy off a dock worker? The absurdity!
: (Continue questioning)
::(Trailblazer): Is it possible that you paid off a dock worker to do your bidding?
::Skott: Empty rhetoric — .
:(Trailblazer): 
: (Present evidence) 
::(Trailblazer): We have the testimony of A-Feng.
::Sushang: This testimony is concrete proof that you instructed him to sabotage shipments.
::Skott: Wh—What? That little... Aren't the Xianzhou people always preaching about righteousness? I gave him all that money, and he sold me out in a heartbeat! Darn it...
:;(Debate successful!)
: (Present evidence) 
::(Trailblazer): Take a look at this.
::Skott: Ha...? What's this about? Get that out of here.
: (Present evidence) 
::(Trailblazer): Take a look at this.
::Skott: Ha...? What's this about? Get that out of here.
;(Next)
:You noticed that despite wearing sunglasses, Skott couldn't conceal his agitation, and his speech was riddled with inconsistencies, indicating that something was definitely amiss.
: Ask again and see what happens...
----
:Xikui: If the evidence presented is true, Mr. Skott, then this constitutes improper business practices and the Sky-Faring Commission will conduct a follow-up investigation.
:Skott: How did this happen? How did the plan go awry...?
:Sushang: Don't forget about our bet! You have to apologize in front of everyone!
:Skott: What? Why should I apologize!?
:Sushang: Because you used dirty tricks to trample all over the honest work of others!
:Sushang: An apology alone won't be enough to fix the damage. If it were — I'd make you do it a thousand times over!
:Sushang: Consider yourself lucky it's just the once!
:Skott: ...
:Skott: I... hereby apologize to Aurum Alley...
: Ha...? Speak louder, I can't quite hear you.
: Don't forget the other part of the bet.
: Sushang is kicking your butt, dude.
::Sushang: Really? I was just speaking from the heart.
:Sushang: Hurry up!
:Skott: I—I apologize to all the people of Aurum Alley...
:Skott: I'm a raving idiot howling into the wind!
: I don't hear barking...
::Sushang: ...Is that really necessary?
: (Appropriate silence)
::A Dock Worker: Wasn't there something about barking like a dog?
:Crowd Noises: Make him bark, make him bark!
:Skott: Ugh — enough!
:Skott: Woof, woof! Woof, woof, woof, woof, woof! Woof!
:Skott: Woof woof owwww—
:Xikui: Tsk, what a clownshow. This arbitration is hereby resolved.
:Skott leaves the dock with his head hanging low.
:The dock's crisis is over for now. The revival of Aurum Alley is just beginning.
:Mingxi: Thanks to all of you, we managed to pull through the dock's debt crisis.
: Yes, especially thanks to me.
::Mingxi: Undoubtedly, yes.
: It was a tough journey.
::Mingxi: Worth every step.
:Mingxi: We should take advantage of the momentum to upgrade the Aurum Alley dock and increase its transaction volume.
:Mingxi: I'm preparing to . The previously-idle dock is now ready for use, so come see me when you have time.
:Mingxi: The dock crisis is over for now, but the rejuvenation of Aurum Alley has just begun!
===Head to the docks and assist the merchant guild to earn funds===
;(Talk to Mingxi)
:Mingxi: Thanks to your help, the lease was paid off and the dock capacity is increasing. I told the workers to clear out areas that weren't utilized and use them to store extra cargo.
:Mingxi: Now the dock can support collaboration with more businesses. Let's keep working together for the revival of Aurum Alley!
----
;(After reaching goal)
:Mingxi: There's been an unexpected change in plans — I've received word that the president has ordered me to stop all upgrades to the dock immediately.
: Does he know how important it is to upgrade the dock?
::Mingxi: There's no way he couldn't know.
: Maybe he's an IPC spy?
::Mingxi: Now's not the time for jokes.
: Maybe he knows when it's time to give up hope.
::Mingxi: Now's not the time for jokes.
:Mingxi: I'm also confused. Let's go have a word with him.
:Mingxi: I sent a message to Sushang telling her to meet up at Oldies Depot.
===Head to Oldies Depot and learn about the president's viewpoint===
;(Approach Yukong)
:Yukong: Good, they've arrived.
: Madam Yukong, you're here too?
::Yukong: I also have something I wish to discuss with the Merchant Guild, but I'll wait for you to finish.
: We're going to pay a visit to the president!
::Sushang: Will we actually get to see him this time?
:: Wait, I get it... the president doesn't even exist!
:::Sushang: What? I hadn't even considered something like that.
:: President, get your butt out here!
:::Sushang: Yeah, we know you're in there. Open the door!
:Lianyan: The president fully appreciates your efforts and knows what you want to ask.
:Lianyan: He believes that continuing to upgrade the dock, a strategy that is not fundamentally different from that of the IPC, will only destroy the unique character of Aurum Alley.
:Lianyan: Aurum Alley is a place brimming with personality — from the delicious food to the cultural antiques. Everything is built around visiting tourists and local residents, and that's what makes it such a special place.
:Lianyan: Based on historical data, continued development of the shipping operations will turn the area into a giant warehouse. The more the shipping capacity is increased, the less attractions there will be for visitors. Such an outcome is unacceptable for the shopkeepers and community of Aurum Alley.
:Sushang: ...Ugh, historical data isn't my forte. You better be telling the truth!
: We have to keep upgrading the dock.
: We should ask the merchants about this.
: I agree with the president in upholding tradition.
:Mingxi: ...
:Yukong: Very well, I believe it's my turn to speak.
:Yukong: The Sky-Faring Commission has received a joint request from several merchants concerning the reorganization of the Merchant Guild. Mr. President, the merchants would like you to resign as the president of the Guild.
:Voice Full of Vicissitudes: There has come a day... that the merchants of Aurum Alley have betrayed me?
:Voice Full of Vicissitudes: I won't give up the vision I've built for Aurum Alley, let alone step down from my duties.
:Sushang: Is that the president speaking?
:Yukong: It is not my intention to interfere with the Merchant Guild's affairs, but as an old friend I would like to remind you that Aurum Alley only exists in the present, not in the past.
:Voice Full of Vicissitudes: ...Madam Yukong, the present is always made from the past, is it not?
:Yukong: I suggest that you make some concessions to appease the merchants. If you don't follow Mingxi's plans for the dock, she will temporarily take over your position.
:Voice Full of Vicissitudes: Mingxi, I would like to hear your thoughts.
:Mingxi: ...President, I hope you understand that I am in no way vying for power over Aurum Alley. I have listened to the president's vision of prosperity since I was a child, and I want to work to achieve that vision. But currently, your ideas conflict with ours.
: I suggest you heed the advice of Madam Yukong.
: Give me a chance to prove you wrong.
:Voice Full of Vicissitudes: I understand. I can accept Mingxi temporarily taking over my duties.
:Voice Full of Vicissitudes: However, Mingxi must make her decision public, and win the approval of both myself and all the merchants. Since you have shown confidence, those terms should be acceptable to you?
:Mingxi: Yes, I'll do my best, President.
:Voice Full of Vicissitudes: You have to remember that even when you're acting in my place, a crisis is still imminent — you must earn at least the amount of the bidding deposit to even have a chance of thwarting off the IPC.
:Yukong: Very well, since the president has come to a decision, I will be in charge of calling a public meeting.
:Yukong: (Trailblazer), Mingxi, I have something for you. When you are all finished here, remember to come and see me.
===Speak with Yukong===
;(Talk to Lianyan, optional)
:Lianyan: *sigh* ...I wish the president did more of the talking. I'm getting tired of being a mouthpiece.
;(Talk to Sushang, optional)
:Sushang: *sigh* This President is kinda stubborn...
:Sushang: Is there really no difference between our strategy and the IPC's?
: Just because the IPC does something doesn't mean it's wrong.
::Sushang: I've heard that many places in the galaxy that partnered with the IPC have become popular areas for interstellar trade.
::Sushang: It makes sense that there are many merchants who oppose the Merchant Guild and support the IPC.
: There's a difference alright.
::Sushang: What kind of difference?
:: Everything we do is for Aurum Alley?
:::Sushang: You're saying that the IPC is in it for the IPC, but we just want what's best for Aurum Alley...
:::Sushang: ...but the president wants what's best for Aurum Alley too, and yet we still disagree with him.
:: We don't earn nearly as much money as the IPC?
:::Sushang: Shouldn't people choose the side that can earn them money?
:Sushang: The streets aren't owned by the Merchant Guild or the IPC... but by those who live here.
:Sushang: *sigh* I guess I don't have any special insights. I think... I think we should ask the merchants what they think.
;(Talk to Mingxi, optional)
:Mingxi: Madam Yukong is looking for us. Let's be on our way.
----
;(Talk to Yukong)
:Yukong: I heard from Xikui that it was you who became a business advisor and assisted Aurum Alley Merchant Guild in their dispute with the IPC... How versatile. Is there anything you can't do?
: Well, for starters, I can't jump...
::Yukong: ...I'm not very good at that either.
: Omg, stop it~ You're making me blushhh~
: Nope. 'Tis why I'll totally take over the Sky-Faring Commission next.
::Yukong: ...Not on my watch.
:Yukong: The president is still a hero to Aurum Alley — he helped it achieve prosperity... but a hero will not be embraced forever.
:Yukong: I've seen the IPC's approach — they prioritize efficiency and a standard uniform business model across the galaxy.
:Yukong: I warned them that their business model wouldn't work on the Xianzhou without adjustments... but the Merchant Guild's overly traditional mindset is a different obstacle.
:Yukong: Let me put it bluntly — Aurum Alley Merchant Guild has no chance of succeeding today.
: The Guild lacks the necessary capital to get to the negotiating table.
::Yukong: The IPC does have more capital on hand, but the review criteria are not solely focused on financial resources.
: Neither party is ideal, but one has to be chosen.
::Yukong: ...And yet all of you now represent a third choice — different from both the Merchant Guild and the IPC.
:Yukong: My advice to you is to visit the shopkeeper, Mr. Xiao. He is the one who proposed the reorganization of the Merchant Guild. If you can get his support, you will definitely receive support from the other merchants.
:Mingxi: Thank you, Madam Yukong!
:Yukong: I have business to attend to in the Palace of Astrum — the rest is up to you. Convince the old shopkeeper, and you may just become the new heroes of Aurum Alley.
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:
===Speak with Mr. Xiao at Artistry Hardware===
;(Talk to Mr. Xiao)
:Mr. Xiao: Need something fixed? We guarantee that your ingenium will be good as new.
:Mr. Xiao: Of course, if it's outworlder technology, it'll depend on the world...
: I didn't come to fix anything.
: How's the revival of Aurum Alley coming along?
:Mr. Xiao: ...I'd appreciate if you could state the reason for your visit today.
:Mingxi: Mr. Xiao, I'm Mingxi, the secretary of the Merchant Guild. We're here to talk about—
:Mr. Xiao: Forget it. I support the IPC.
:Sushang: Can you tell us why?
:Mr. Xiao: Please leave.
: Hmph... Rude!
: Did the Merchant Guild do anything out of line?
::Mingxi: I don't recall.
::Mingxi: Let's leave for now.
===Leave Artistry Hardware and plan your next step===
;(Approach designated location)
:Xiaohan: Wait — please wait a moment.
----
:Xiaohan: It sounded like my father was being a little difficult... I'm Xiaohan — people around here call me Little Master.
:Xiaohan: If I'm not mistaken, you're the ones who made Representative Skott apologize in public?
: Our fame precedes us...
::Xiaohan: You stood up for Aurum Alley with reason and integrity — I'm thankful to you.
: Why would someone call themselves Little Master?
::Xiaohan: Oh, hehe, I didn't give myself that name — it's what my friends have always called me. I only recently returned to the Xianzhou after many years away, but it seems like the name stuck!
:Xiaohan: May I ask why you wanted to speak with my father?
:Mingxi: We need the support of the merchants for the dock, and we wanted to see if your father could join us...
:Xiaohan: Hadn't my father already refused?
:Mingxi: We heard that Mr. Xiao proposed to "reorganize" the Merchant Guild, and we wanted to ask why.
:Xiaohan: I see... I'll help you figure something out.
:Sushang: Great! Uh... your father is a very tough nut to crack.
:Xiaohan: The older generation of craftsmen can be rather set in their ways... Here, how about this — why not join my father's shop as apprentices?
:Xiaohan: My father is stern on the surface, but if he sees a capable apprentice and a sincere heart, he'll change his attitude.
: What if he refuses?
::Xiaohan: Well, it's better to beg forgiveness than ask permission. Let's just start you out and see what he says.
: Things might just fall into place if we try hard enough.
::Xiaohan: A sincere heart always has the power to impress people.
: You aren't tricking us into doing free work, are you?
::Xiaohan: I truly want to help you — and you'll receive compensation for your work.
:Xiaohan: So it's decided? Let's get moving then. Time to make you apprentices.
----
:Xiaohan: Father, my friends from the Merchant Guild want to be your apprentices. I'll go ahead and show them the ropes.
:Mr. Xiao: Nonsense! I never said I needed more hands!
:Mr. Xiao: Even if I did want to hire more people, I couldn't afford them. You know that better than I do.
:Xiaohan: I can cover their salaries! Come on, it'd be rude to turn them away.
:Mr. Xiao: Don't be ridiculous — a green hand like won't be able to fix a thing... Plus, if breaks our customer items in the process, it'll be us taking the blame.
:Xiaohan: If that's what you're worried about, just give 'em a little training.
: So I'm an apprentice now, right?
: We just want to help.
:Mr. Xiao: Hmph...
:Xiaohan: That sounds like a "yes" to me. Let's get on with the job, shall we? (Trailblazer), here's something from one of our regulars. Show him what you can do.
===Fix the broken cycrane as an apprentice===
: Repair
;(Solve Abacus Circuitry)
:Mr. Xiao: Hmm... not bad.
: Anything else I can help you with?
: Are we friends now? Wanna have a chat?
:Mr. Xiao: ...No.
:Xiaohan: *sigh* He's hard to impress. I'll find you some more work.
:Mr. Xiao: Ugh... what did I do to deserve this?
:Xiaohan: Just a reminder, Father — fair work for fair pay.
:Xiaohan: Over here, (Trailblazer)! See what you can do with this jade abacus.
:Xiaohan: Don't just stand there, Father! Go teach your apprentice a thing or two.
:Mr. Xiao: Fine, I give in! I know why you're here. Just... please stop tinkering with my customers' items.
: We convinced him!
::Sushang: I think we just made him surrender...
: Sorry if I made a mess of your workbench.
::Mr. Xiao: It's fine, just leave it as it is.
:Mr. Xiao: *sigh* Ask what you wanted to ask.
: You and the president — you know each other well?
::Mr. Xiao: Yes, he's an old friend.
: You seem to be on the side of the IPC?
::Mr. Xiao: I see a lot of potential in the Corporation's plan... but a certain old friend of mine lives in the past. Whatever vision he has — it won't come true.
: What's your issue with the Merchant Guild?
:Mr. Xiao: Issue? It's less about issues, and more about stubborness.
:Mr. Xiao: We walk a single path, do the same things, and talk to the same people for centuries... A mind can become insensitive to change.
:Mr. Xiao: However, compared to the president, my stubborness is nothing. Back in his day, Aurum Alley was teeming with shuttling starskiffs and commercial aurumatons.
:Mr. Xiao: But then the Luofu departed again on the path of The Hunt. Our business partners couldn't follow, so they stopped trading with us.
: You want to restore the Alley to its former glory?
::Mr. Xiao: The president does — he wants to bring the old times back. Shop owners like me know that's impossible.
::Mr. Xiao: Therefore, I stand behind the IPC's plan. Aurum Alley will inevitably be replaced.
: Is that why the president is against the IPC?
::Mingxi: He always says the Alley deserves another chance.
::Mr. Xiao: Indeed, which is why he won't let it go. He wants to see the streets teeming with tourists, not IPC cargo.
::Mr. Xiao: But times have changed — we can't sail against the current. That's why I stand behind the IPC's plan — Aurum Alley will inevitably be replaced.
:Sushang: But is your shop part of the future that the IPC promised?
:Mr. Xiao: ...Hard to say. Chances are I'll have to sell it.
:Mr. Xiao: Not the easiest decision to make, but I won't regret it. The good days are behind us — we must accept that short-life species will repurpose our lands, and that night markets are destined to become shipping docks...
:Mr. Xiao: ...We must come to terms with the fact that short-life ambitions will reshape a world where things were thought to last forever...
:Sushang: Mr. Xiao, why not try working with us? Mingxi is pushing for reforms within the guild. We're nothing like the president.
:Mr. Xiao: Reforms?
:Xiaohan: They made a lot of good points when arguing with the IPC at the dock. I do see possibilities for the guild to change.
: You don't have to choose between the president and the IPC.
: Join us and profit!
:Mr. Xiao: Given the state of the guild, my money is on the IPC winning...
:Mr. Xiao: ...but since I've accepted the worst-case scenario — Aurum Alley ceasing to exist — I can't see why it hurts to endorse your idea... and see how far it takes us.
:Mingxi: Thank you! Now that you have joined our revival project, I'm sure many others will follow suit.
:Mr. Xiao: Mm... That's settled then. I'm curious to see what comes of your plan.
----
:Mingxi: Now that Mr. Xiao is on board, his shop can be part of the logistics planning we've been working on.
: Let's get the planning started.
: I love planning stuff. I wanna do it now!
;(Unlocked Merchant Collab: Artistry Hardware)
;(Complete Aurum Alley's Hustle and Bustle: Logistics Planning)
:Mingxi: I'll head back to the dock for now. Thanks for all the hard work by the way — hope things work out just as smoothly down the line.
:The merchant guild has established a promotional plan for Artistry Hardware, and hence did its fame begin to grow.
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:
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;(Merchant Collab Established)
;(Mission complete)
==Other Languages==
==Change History==