Central Starskiff Haven

* Info

Starskiffs take off and land like game pieces being placed on and off the board, transporting medicine seekers, knowledge pursuers, and merchant traders from here to all corners of the world.
**Central Starskiff Haven** is an area in The Xianzhou Luofu, unlocked after completing the Trailblaze Mission *Amidst the Mara-Struck*.

There are a total of **11** Treasures found in Central Starskiff Haven.

## Points of Interest

 Starskiff Jetty | Subarea
 Starwatcher Avenue | Subarea
 Palace of Astrum | Subarea

### Space Anchors

Main article: Space Anchor § Central Starskiff Haven
## Dialogue

### Sushang

(Initial interaction)
**Sushang:** The Luofu sure feels different from our Yaoqing. The storytellers here never repeat their stories...
**Sushang:** Oh, I remember you. You're friends with that "Silent but Deadly," right? What can I do for you?
 I just want to have a chat with you.
**Sushang:** What would you like to talk about? I've only been here for a short while. If you want to ask for directions, I'm only familiar with places around Starwatcher Avenue. If you want to know about the Xianzhou culture and whatnot, you've come to the wrong person.
**Sushang:** But if you happen to enjoy live storytelling performances just like I do, then we're in the same boat and I will chat with you about whatever you like!
 Are you on duty here?
**Sushang:** It's not my shift yet, I'm just killing time and seeing if there's a chance to do a good deed while I'm at it.
**Sushang:** My mom said, "A Stick in Time Saves Mine...," or whatever the original saying is, I can't remember the whole thing... Ahem, anyway, it means that I'll show up whenever someone needs help from my "stick"!
**Sushang:** You look like an Outworlder, and you must be new here at the Luofu. If you need my help, you can visit me at any time. As a worthy Cloud Knight, I'll be reliable and helpful and will not bring shame to the Luofu Cloud Knights!
**Sushang:** Don't ask me about cultural stuff, though. I once met a few travelers who were super into Xianzhou's history and customs. They knew way more than I did. So I had to keep my mouth shut the entire time, trying to act like I knew what they were talking about.
(Continue on to dialogue options below)

(Subsequent interactions)
**Sushang:** Oh, it's you! I was just listening to the new story by Mr. Xiyan about the High-Cloud Quintet... It's different from the version I heard when I was little. He doesn't make up the extra details, does he?
**Sushang:** By the way, how can I help you?
 Now that the crisis is over, are you still busy?
**Sushang:** Not at all. I've had quite a lot of free time lately.
**Sushang:** But I can't shake the feeling that I should be doing more. I mean, I'm not one to sit around, and given my background from the Yaoqing, I should've played a bigger role in the recent events.
**Sushang:** I must start gearing up for the next crisis now... Wait, scratch that! It'd be better if there were no more crises and everyone could just live in peace and comfort.
 I'd like to ask...
 Do you have any stories to recommend?
**Sushang:** *The Cloud Knight Martyrs*, no doubt. I was so into it when I was little. Whenever the storyteller nearby started his session, I would sneak out of my house immediately to listen to him. My mom never failed to haul me back every time.
**Sushang:** I was actually inspired by that story to join the Cloud Knights.
 Why is your sword so heavy?
**Sushang:** I'm not sure why, but it is a family heirloom, so I guess there's something special about it.
**Sushang:** My mom always says, "Even if it's too heavy to lift, you still gotta try. Practicing swordplay can be as easy as practicing handwriting, you start with each small stroke." But if you ask me, practicing handwriting is so much harder...
 You seem pretty smart to me. Do you really not do well in school?
**Sushang:** \*sigh\* If only the abecedaries in the lyceum had your eye for talons. They all said I wasn't cut out for any schoolwork. I only learned how to read a bit, thanks to the few textbooks at the lyceum.
 You meant "eye for talent," right?
**Sushang:** What!? "Talon," "Talent"? They sound the same to me, though. Anyway, it's fine as long as you get what I mean — I was just trying to give you a compliment for your good taste.
 I think your abecedaries might just be right about you.
**Sushang:** Did I use the wrong word again? Forget it. I won't remember it anyway. Just know it's a compliment for your good taste.
 Sounds like you are not a local here, are you?
**Sushang:** I grew up in the Yaoqing and have been a hometown girl all my life. This is the first time I've ventured far from home since I joined the Cloud Knights.
**Sushang:** There are lots of Outworlders here on the Luofu. I've heard about one who likes to fumble around with the cans and bottles alike on the streets. And some time ago, I met a traveling merchant carrying a huge casket. Luofu sure is a welcoming place for visitors.
 I'd better leave you to it.
**Sushang:** No worries.
 I don't have any more questions.
**Sushang:** No worries.

(Included in subsequent interactions, upon completing Adventure Mission *Back in Business (IV)* in the *Aurum Alley's Hustle and Bustle* event)
 The Aurum Alley has been through a lot...
**Sushang:** Indeed, it is a miracle! Although it's tiring, being a part of something like this gives me so much sense of achievement!
**Sushang:** I'm given such a warm reception every time I visit there. They see me as their hero!
**Sushang:** Ultimately, the people brought about the miracle with their own efforts, and we two were at best the driving force behind it. Let's not be arrogant or complacent!

## Investigations

### Competitive Eater Championship

Main article: Competitive Eater Championship § Central Starskiff Haven/Exalting Sanctum
### Delivery Boxes

(Standard dialogue)
 Delivery Box
You hear a rustling noise coming from the courier package. You wonder what kind of creature — or thing — is squirming in the package.
The label on the package shows that it contains some toys. It better be.
The randomly placed courier package is likely to be the result of someone's impulsiveness.
This is an abandoned courier package. Its owner must be very forgetful or very rich.
There is an abandoned courier package lying forlornly in front of you. It breathes its last after completing the mission of storing the goods. By the way, this is its last words: "Handle with care."
The logistics industry on the Xianzhou thrives, as things are being transferred to all parts of this tremendous ship like the red blood cells in the body; this courier package is one of them.
The image of cycranes that deliver goods in the air pops up in your mind. What if the goods slip off their claws when they are flying? What if a pedestrian happens to pass by below them? You shake your head, dreading to continue the train of thought.

(Investigate the delivery box west of the Food Stall Owner)
 Delivery Box
The smell of rotten food comes from the courier package. The bill writes, "Please ship my purchase as soon as possible. I have starved for three days."
Unfortunately, the food is stuck here because of some accident. You wonder how the poor guy who has starved for three days is faring.
 I must help this stranger.
From the looks of it, the package might have once contained a bowl of fried rice. You can replace it with another bowl if you wish.
(Submit  Cosmic Fried Rice ×1)
You write down the recipient's address and find a clean courier package to put fresh food into it. Then, you book a random courier cycrane to collect it. Hopefully, the meal will be able to help the poor stranger.
(Obtain  Praise of High Morals ×1)
 Turn around and leave.
Everything is destined. Now isn't the time for you to meddle with the affairs.

(Investigate the delivery box beside the vending machine northwest of the Earthrise Agora Space Anchor)
 Delivery Box
A courier package that's a perfect fit. The digital label clearly states that the item inside will be used for a controlled release.
This line of callous Xianzhou letters would disturb any being capable of empathy. Seriously, you'd better rip it open to check up on things.
 I have to open this up and see.
Out of simple moral obligation and the human spirit, you tear off the digital label and open the courier package...
...Only to find an express cycrane, seemingly in sleep mode due to over-exertion. A note has been placed beside this poor cycrane's body:
"Cycranes aren't slaves for the Heron Express! They should soar freely in the sky! — The Unshackled."
Seems like this group called The Unshackled has a sense of humor.
 This is a personal item. I can't interfere with it.
You convince yourself with unshakably strong logic.

(Investigate the delivery box in front of the vending machine northwest the Earthrise Agora Space Anchor)
 Delivery Box
There is a courier package left open on the roadside. A silvery light sparkles out from under the half-opened lid. Who would have just left precious metals like this out on the street? Such opulence.
 Check the package.
Frantic to open it up, you reach under the lid only for a sharp chill like an electric shock to cause you to pull your hand back.
Someone has actually stuffed this box with dozens of loose razors! They almost cut your hand. You also find a letter stuck to the side of the package:
"Dear Mellow-Golden-Mayor Immersia Club Writers: I love the latest update to your masterpiece Xianzhou Sword Tale..."
"But I simply cannot accept that you've killed off the character Jimlieu. Here is a cake and a gift for everyone to show how I feel."
A cake? The writers must've eaten that already. But these razors have been thrown out by these guys untouched. What a bunch of heartless animals. Have they no conscience?
 Find a way to handle the razors.
You can't just leave something so dangerous lying around like this. You decide to close the lid and carry the danger away.
(Obtain  Praise of High Morals ×1)
 Return it to the recipient.
Ashes to ashes, dust to dust. Let's not let anyone else get harmed. Who only eats sweet food, without any bitterness? You decide to send the box and the razors inside it to the designated recipient.
 Turn around and leave.
No matter what's inside, it's undoubtedly not yours. Congratulations on holding fast to your moral code.
(Obtain  Praise of High Morals ×1)

(Investigate the delivery box west of the Starskiff Jetty Space Anchor)
 Delivery Box
This is an all-new courier package, with no stickers or other labels attached that could indicate its identity.
Not long before, a shifty guy with a blue cap abandoned it here for some reason and just walked away without even a glance back.
It goes without saying that the whole incident is suspicious from start to finish. Perhaps you should look into things more carefully...
 It really is suspicious. Check it out.
You stoop down to try and carefully read the text on the courier slip, but hear a soulless mechanical security system say from within:
"Biometric data verified. Registered to (Trailblazer)."
"Mini-neutron bomb has been linked. Please do not leave the vicinity of our sensors. Countdown to detonation will start immediately if registrant's biometric data cannot be sensed."
 What the heck is this thing?
To be honest — I have no idea.
 I think I've seen how this plays out before...
Really? Then you must have a rich and wonderful life indeed.
In any case, this means that you'll probably have to carry it around with you everywhere — that is, if it's really an actual bomb.
After all... You wouldn't want to see it blow up in your face, would you?
(Obtain  Mini-Neutron Bomb ×1)
 Never mind.
A good decision. Excess curiosity often places you in dangerous situations — as you well know.

(Investigate the delivery box south of Salesby)
 Delivery Box
The opened courier package is sent from Interastral Peace Media. Inside the package are some documents, personal effects, and a crumpled letter.
Obviously, the crumpled letter was the victim of someone's fury.
 Open it.
You unfold the curled-up paper only to find a piece of devastating news...
"Congratulations on graduating from Interastral Peace Corporation! Thanks for your company so far, and I wish our paths will cross again in the future!" You just realize that the idea of graduating from a company actually exists.
A friendly reminder that touches on the dismissal procedure is included toward the end of the letter. The cheerful tone used makes the layoff sound like an uplifting event. However, it is apparent that the recipient doesn't feel that way.
 Turn around and leave.
Some poor guy might have been fired during a business trip. It's not something you should be concerned about.

(Investigate the delivery box west of the Food Stall Owner, behind the Foursquare Mirror)
 Delivery Box
A tattered courier package is left abandoned on the ground. The bright-red stamp of "RETURNED" on the bill signifies its fate. "999 Zhuming Mauve Moon" is written in the "Name of Goods" column.
The expensive flowers lying quietly in the tattered courier package reflect the love life of their sender.
 Open it.
You open the package, and a letter falls out and slips in between your fingers. A refreshing and pleasant scent wafts from the paper. You can't help reading it.
 Forget it.
Just as you're ready to leave. the cover of the package is blown open by the wind. A letter drifts in the air and slips in between your fingers. A refreshing and pleasant scent wafts from the paper. You can't help reading it.
"Chen, I hope everything goes well on your side. Although you aren't around, I can always feel your presence by my side!"
"I can feel your presence like the breeze blowing against my face when the streams flow along the valley and run across the delves!" How poetic.
"I try to memorize you when you're around, like I'm learning to admire the most romantic poem as a student at the academy! I scrutinize the sentences that represent you and try to remember every single one of them!" The writer must be a fan of the exclamation point.
"Once again, please allow me to ask you with all my sincerity: Would you be my lover? I'll wait for you answer forever!" The question almost sounds like an imploration.
You fold up the letter, and it seems like the breeze has an exclamation mark too, as it starts gaining intensity. Sadly, what the writer receives in reply is the bright red "RETURNED" stamp.
Another gust of wind comes, taking the letter away from your fingers. It drifts to its demise, like the love life of the sender.

(Investigate the delivery box east of the Stargazer Navalia Exit)
 Delivery Box
The digital bill on the opened courier package writes, "Donation for the victims of the disaster in Ambrosial Arbor." There is another handwritten phrase next to it that reads, "Expired and spoiled, disposed."
It looks like an intact bag of protein rice. Perhaps... it is not expired and spoiled?
 Check the rice.
You examine the bag of protein rice and conclude — it is nicely packaged and has not expired. Who's thrown it away?
 Bring it with you.
At least the donation won't go to waste.
(Obtain  Protein Rice ×5)
 Walk away.
Out of sight, out of mind.

(Investigate the delivery box south of the Food Stall Owner)
 Delivery Box
This courier package is stuffed to the brim. Judging from the bulging of the box, you surmise there must be lots of things inside.
Neither the sender's address nor the recipient's info is on the digital label. Should you open it up?
 Open it up!
The Xianzhou property law places the right to ownership of any unowned courier package on the first person to find it.
First of all, there're dozens of toy figurines. Each has a different shape, and the only thing they share is that they're all unopened and in pristine condition. A protective film covers the whole of this section, and they're dressed pretty skimpily.
Next up. there's a stacked photo album. Judging by the worn edges, the owner must have spent countless hours poring over these by candlelight, unable to turn away. The content of the images is enough to turn you red as a beetroot.
Below this, are small palm—sized boxes stuffed with small pictures. Probably some kind of card game.
Further on down, there's a gaming console plus several game disks.
And even further down... Nothing. Just a letter that opens with a heartbreaking line:
"Marriage is the tomb of love. I'm not sure about that, but it's the tomb of hobbies. Please can the kindhearted soul who finds this take care of my earnest collection of treasures? Thank you."
Blindsided, you feel as though you've learned a valuable life lesson. Your eyes are glistening.
 I accept!
This box is heavy. It contains the broken dreams of an adult. You decide to give them a home.
(Obtain  Pleasant-Looking Trash ×1)
 Leave it to true love!
This box is heavy. It contains the broken dreams of an adult. Let's leave it to those who really love this kind of stuff. You silently close the box lid.
(Obtain  Praise of High Morals ×1)
 Don't do that. It's bad.
You frown. Opening any unclaimed box on the side of the road is unacceptable to you based on your own moral standards —
Despite sometimes placing your fingers on the scale to adjust your morals... Today is not that day!

(Investigate courier package near the vending machine north of the Earthrise Agora space anchor)
 Courier Package
There is a courier package left open on the roadside. Under the half-opened lid is a thick stack of papers that flips gently in the breeze.
 Check the package.
You lift the cover, reach into the package, and take out a large pile of manuscripts.
"Dear Mellow-Golden-Mayor Immersia Club, "The First Battle," which is the latest chapter of "Xianzhou Sword Tale" is amazing! In my opinion, the war between the borisin and the alliance should be next, causing drastic changes in the life of the protagonists..."
"I hope the story will progress in this way..."
What follows is a long essay of the predicted plot that consists of almost two hundred thousand words, full of twists and turns and surprises. At the end of the story, the protagonists are expected to die one after another and then be brought back to life by the Paths...
You have no idea whether the immersia club adopted the ideas in the essay that is worthy of winning the Interastral Peace Media annual award.
 It is not worth my time.
Having decided to spend your time on more interesting stuff, you turn around and walk away from the package.

### Old Newsstand

(Investigate the old newsstand southeast of Salesby, parallel to the Earthrise Agora Space Anchor)
 Investigate
This is a broken-down old newsstand. It just stands there in silence, watching the crowd impassively. It seems particularly low-key among the humdrum of Starwatcher Avenue.
This shop front seems like it had been closed for some time, judging from the thick build-up of dust. But you don't know why it's closed down, nor how many Xianzhou days have passed since its shutdown.
It looks like it doesn't belong to anyone. Perhaps it really doesn't.
Do you get it? That last sentence was actually a hint — It means you could roll up the curtain over the door at any point without any moral or legal consequences, since it's just a lonely abandoned shop.
So, will you roll up the curtain and take a peek? You're very likely to find some treasure inside. Very likely.
 Then, let me find out!
You roll up the curtain and see dust floating about in the gloom — oh, there's also a filthy little box with some pens, ink, paper, and an inkstone around it.
"House of Nepenthe." If someone wrote their name on a post-it and stuck it on their forehead, this would be the name.
 What's in the box?
Such a smooth train of thought! Looks like you're already familiar with the Way of the Trailblaze. Pop it open once and for all!
 Nobody would think to do that...
Hey, that's not the point! You see a mysterious box, so you \*should\* have a look at what's inside. Right?
You quickly open the box to find a letter inside, which is in surprisingly pristine condition given the state of the old newsstand. To be honest, the whole vibe is starting to feel a little weird.
(Opens Mysterious Advisory Letter)

**Mysterious Advisory Letter**
Dear Mr. Carefree:

I hope this finds you well!
Your suggestions have been well-received. Since then, I've received many favors and I am extremely grateful.

However, I've recently encountered some wee matters which I find frustrating. After much deliberation, I've finally decided to trouble you, and I hope that you can be so kind as to enlighten me on the matter.

I used to own several entities, all of which being operated in tip-top shape. However, you probably are also aware of the Denizens of Abundance a few decades back — the ones they call Shen, in cahoots with the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus — who all infiltrated the Xianzhou under the auspices of a Grand Fair guild to try starting a riot. I got caught up in all this with the rebels, and my business was getting worse by the day to the point of being unsustainable. I'm afraid it's on the verge of bankruptcy.

It's left me sleepless, and I have no idea what to do. It'd be impossible to cover all the debts alone. I've wracked my brains to come up with plans like fleeing to an alien planet, but I'll never escape a warrant from the Ten Lords. If things are like they seem, I'd be better off surrendering at the Hall of Karma and just ending everything!

I wouldn't mind if it were only me that's affected, but I've got kids and elders that could be in danger no matter what I do. I cannot countenance such outrageous acts, but no alternative remains: And so I seek your advice, and hope you're able to offer a few pointers. I would be forever indebted to any teachings you could offer; otherwise, I'll be off to the Hall of Karma...

\*The remainder of the letter is blurry and illegible.\*
Looks like this is an anonymous advisory letter. Judging from the contents, this small shop once belonged to a mysterious person named Mr. Carefree, who probably made a living by composing advice for other people.
And it seems like this is the second time the author of the letter had written to Mr. Carefree. But where could this gentleman be now? Nobody knows. The fate of the poor author of the letter also remains unknown.
But everything is possible, especially given the longevity of the Xianzhou natives. The author of this letter may still be holding out for some advice from Mr. Carefree!
So, perhaps carried away on a whim, you pick up the pen and paper beside the box and decide to compose a reply to the poor correspondent on behalf of this missing Mr. Carefree —
So then, how should you reply? Put your brain to use and write an opening line!
 I want to take another look at the letter.
No problem! After all, it's for the author's benefit, right?
(Opens Mysterious Advisory Letter)
 Dear stranger...
"Dear stranger,"
"I received your letter but failed to promptly reply. Please accept my apologies. I know that you're in a difficult situation, and I really feel a deep sense of..."
 Pitiable stranger...
"O pitiable stranger,"
"Reading about your experiences has left me with a deep sense of..."
 I want to take another look at the letter.
No problem! Read it as many times as you need.
(Opens Mysterious Advisory Letter)
 Regret...
"...regret. Therefore, I venture to offer..."
 Confusion...
"...confusion. In this letter, I'll list..."
 I want to take another look at the letter.
No problem! Anything for this reply.
(Opens Mysterious Advisory Letter)
 Humble opinion...
"...my humble opinion for your assistance. You may consider ..."
 Esteemed opinion...
"...my esteemed opinion for you to carefully obey. You should..."
 I want to take another look at the letter.
Er... Do you think if I read it one more time, I can actually memorize the whole thing?
(Opens Mysterious Advisory Letter)
 Repaying debts is only natural...
"Be honest with your family, pay off your debt together with them, and find a way out of this together. You may get temporary respite if you run, but you'll always be looking over your shoulder, and you could land in prison. This is akin to drinking poison to slake your thirst!"
 Flee far away, as trouble is surely imminent...
"Cut off all ties to Xianzhou, and run for the hills! Trouble never comes alone, so don't worry about those debts — just let them all go!"

(Opens Reply to a Stranger)
(Note: Contents are based on previous selections)

**Reply to a Stranger**
Esteemed Stranger:
I hereby offer my most sincere apologies for my impertinence in not responding to your kind letter in a timely fashion. I only recently learned of your predicament. Words simply fail to encapsulate my deep
(or)
Pitiful Stranger:
After learning what you went through, I'm overwhelmed with deep

sorrow. 'Tis why I've decided, if I may be so bold, to offter [*sic*] my
(or)
apprehension. I shall in this letter offer my

humble opinions on this matter, which I hope could serve you well. It'd be wise to
(or)
wise advice for you to heed. You should

come clean with your family about everything. Seek help from them, plan ahead with them, and together work your way out of the debts. Debt evasion may bring you a brief moment of relief, but it won't grant you lasting peace. Escaping from your liabilities will only cost you dearly once they catch up with you, and believe me, they will. You can't be on the run forever, and you will have to pay the price one way or another.
(or)
sever all ties with Xianzhou and then make a run for it as far away as possible. This way, you won't be troubled by however many debts you may owe. Let them all be gone with the wind!

You sign your name in one flowing motion, and shove your crude calligraphy back into the box.
Right now, you have no idea whether or not this means anything — Why not come back to check it out later?
 No, I've always obeyed the law.
Ah... that's a real shame.
But you can come back here any time! \*Any\* time you want.

 Investigate
The musty old newsstand is still standing there, impassive as ever. It's been a while since you've played the role of Mr. Carefree here, replying to correspondents writing letters in search of help.
You roll up that dusty curtain once more, seeking confirmation that everything you've done actually has meaning...
...It worked. The previous letter and your reply have both disappeared from that filthy little box. Instead, a brand new letter has taken their places —
(Opens Thank-You Letter or Bereaved Letter)

**Thank-You Letter**
Dear Mr. Carefree:

I never thought that you'd write me a letter after all these millennia! Thank you for your letter. I've read it over and over again. I'm speechless at your generosity!

I'm afraid you may not know that the advisory letter you replied to was written by my grandfather. Back then, he was in a deep trouble and impatient, seeking advice from you on a way out — but he never got that reply. However, it is very gratifying that my grandfather went with the letter's choice of a "familial payback plan to forge a way out together."

Time flies, and nearly three millennia have passed since then. Even though grandpa had since fallen from being stricken with mara and had passed on to the next life in the Hall of Karma, we still follow his teachings — and we have finally repaid the debt in full. We have finally lived up to our family name.

Grandpa used to always say: "Money has its price, but sincerity is priceless. People have their limits, but trust is limitless." Despite grandpa's failing to receive your advice, if spirits really do exist, then he must be pleased as punch to know that you're in agreement with him!

There's too much to say in such a hasty reply. Please take good care of yourself!
This correspondent seems delighted to have received another letter from Mr. Carefree after millennia, but you know that times have changed and this correspondent is no longer the same person who had composed the initial letter. People change.

**Bereaved Letter**
Dear Mr. Carefree:

I never thought that you'd write me a letter after all these millennia. I am deeply moved.

I'm afraid you may not know that the advisory letter you replied to was written by my grandfather. Back then, he was in a deep trouble and impatient, seeking advice from you on a way out — but he never got that reply. In the end, grandpa could not confront his demons and was struck by mara, so he ran out on me and our whole family. After that, we managed to pay back all of his old debts. We have finally lived up to our family name.

Time flies, and nearly three millennia have passed since then. We no longer torture ourselves with wondering about his changing moods back then, or how he came to such a plight. Reading your letter today has helped me realize that you are not the same person you were three millennia ago, and it's a pity. Thinking things through, it's probably because everyone in my world is hopeless at bearing this pain of infinitude.

There's too much to say in such a hasty reply. Please take good care of yourself.
This correspondent seems a little sad to have received another letter from Mr. Carefree after millennia, and the tragedy outlined in the letter leaves you with mixed feelings. You want to reply, but can't find the right words.
You know that time changes everything, and this correspondent is no longer the same person who initially wrote to Mr. Carefree. People change. You don't have to bear any responsibility for this little tragedy that played out three thousand years ago.
You also know that it's impossible for you to stay here, role-playing as Mr. Carefree and solving problems for everyone for the rest of your life — no matter how much you want to.
You're only a Trailblazer, one of the innumerable passers-by on the Xianzhou Luofu. You have your own path to take, and so does this correspondent. As a Trailblazer, this is something you know only too well.
This is the end of your correspondence in the House of Nepenthe — You duck out of the dingy storefront, let down the curtain over the door, and leave.
(Obtain  Condensed Aether ×1,  Strale ×10)

### Weapon (Devastator Glaive)

(Investigate weapon leaning against the wall south of the northwestern pier)
 Investigate
This is a Cloud Knight's standard-Issue Devastator Glaive. There's a cold glint on the spine of the blade sometimes. You get the feeling that it could cut steel like butter.
The blade leaned against the corner alone, like a once-majestic warrior curled up in a dusty corner begging for alms and looking piteous.
Who, when, and why was such a weapon abandoned?
 (Pick it up and play around with it)
You've seen enough Cloud Knights brandishing their Devastator Glaives around, so you hold the handle and swing it around with ease.
There's no swishing sound, just that of metal clanging onto the ground.
**???:** M—My blade!
A man appears behind you. wearing a pained expression, but something in his expression betrays a sense of practice.
**Unfamiliar Man:** My heirloom sword! How could you damage it like this!? P—Pay me back!
Oh, there it comes! Every time I go off-world, I'll feel like it's a waste of time if I can't find any street cheats and experience a little about the dark side of humanity.
The man grows serious, as if angered by your indifferent expression.
**Unfamiliar Man:** (Boy/Girl), do you realize how much effort goes into crafting one of these Devastator Glaives for the Cloud Knights?
Then he spouted industrial jargon such as "propulsion weapon" and "monomolecular blade," filling the surrounding street with a hint of academia.
**Unfamiliar Man:** So how are you gonna pay me back, then?
 Your blade? Call it, and see if it answers you.
**Unfamiliar Man:** You rascal! This sword is engraved with my ancestor's name on it — the character Quan, meaning wellspring. This should prove that it is beyond a doubt. my family heirloom!
 Why have you engraved a character on my sword?
 That's right. I myself engraved the character Quan on it.
**Unfamiliar Man:** ...
Dumbstruck by your righteous statement, the man remains speechless for a moment.
**Unfamiliar Man:** Don't get smart with me, scoundrel! Seems like I'll have to teach you a little lesson here that you won't soon forget.
You just stand there in silence, looking on. The man's face turns blue and then white, as if sizing you up.
Finally, the stranger backs off and disappears into the streets.
 What is this blade made of, anyway? Ceramic? It's so fragile.
**Unfamiliar Man:** I can see you must be new around here. Outworlder, so a little history lesson. A long-life species possession like this has a history of at least eight hundred years!
**Unfamiliar Man:** To you, it may look like any ordinary blade. But in our eyes, it's a cultural relic that's broken enemy lines. It fought through centuries of vicissitudes, slain the Abominations of Abundance, as well as many a valiant enemy. Who could ever imagine its noble fate being in the hands of such an ignorant little pipsqueak!
**Unfamiliar Man:** C'mon, I'm in a hurry... How much can you pay in damages?
 Let's ask the Cloud Knights...
 How can such a precious relic just be left on the street like this?
**Unfamiliar Man:** ...
Your straight-to-the—point remarks shocked the man, rendering him speechless for a moment.
**Unfamiliar Man:** Don't get smart with me, scoundrel! Seems like I'll have to teach you a little lesson here that you won't soon forget.
You just stand there in silence, looking on. The man's face turns blue and then white, as if sizing you up.
Finally, the stranger backs off and disappears into the streets.
 Enough, how much do you want?
**Unfamiliar Man:** ...Aren't you even going to fight me a couple of times? Here I am, expecting you to come back at me with something.
 Nothing, really — it's just money.
 Quit dawdling! I'm in a hurry.
The man didn't expect everything to have gone so smoothly. He frowns and spreads open his palms.
**Unfamiliar Man:** 500 credits!
 Take it. Just quit doing this.
**Unfamiliar Man:** Th-Thank you, (milord/milady)!
 No, 250! That's my price!
**Unfamiliar Man:** \*clench teeth\* 250 it is!
He looks at you incredulously. before taking the money and scarpering off around the corner.
 (Forget about it)
The weapon is longer than your height. You mull it over for a second before deciding to spare yourself.

### Freight Starskiff

(Standard dialogue)
A small freight starskiff that looks way bulkier than a normal starskiff.
It is usually used to deliver goods, but it will sometimes carry special people and appear along with special events.
With the safety device of the freight starskiff tightly locked, the possibility of it being driven off by unauthorized personnel can be ruled out.
It is said to be a freight starskiff, but with a limited capacity.

(Investigate starskiff on the northwestern pier)
 Investigate
The docks at the Starskiff Haven are the same as always, with the starskiffs coming and going creating a bustling scene.
Before you is a public transport starskiff. People catch this kind of transport to sail between different delves for a relatively low price.
It was just another day at the Starskiff Haven, until a silvery flash shoots over your shoulder, landing on the tail of the starskiff bus with a crisp clang.
**Strange Lady:** Darn it... how did I miss that shot?
**Strange Lady:** Excuse me, can you step aside? You're blocking my aim.
 What are you doing?
**Strange Lady:** Why, I'm making a prayer. See that circle behind the starskiff? That thing is its engine — a jade wheel.
**Strange Lady:** Just toss a coin into the jade wheel and the upcoming journey will go completely smoothly. Check it out — unf!
 Sorry, there you go.
**Strange Lady:** Oh, thanks for that. See that circle behind the starskiff? That thing is its engine — a jade wheel.
**Strange Lady:** Just toss a coin into the jade wheel and the upcoming journey will go completely smoothly. Check it out — unf!
 You just slammed me in the kidney. I'll need some reparations.
**Strange Lady:** What kind of person grows a kidney on their shoulders? Besides, all I did was toss a coin. How much damage could that possibly do?
**Strange Lady:** Quit whinnying and get outta my way. See that jade wheel behind the starskiff? Just toss a coin into it and the upcoming journey will go completely smoothly. Check it out — hah!
**Strange Lady:** The girl flings another coin, tracing an arc through the air as it hits the rim of the jade wheel and clunks down into the middle of the skybox.
 (Keep watching.)
**Strange Lady:** Ahh, good grief! How'd I miss again? I'm gonna be late to the Ever-Hunt Plains, all my friends are waiting for me for the life-release ceremony...
 Must you toss in a coin before you go any here?
**Strange Lady:** Yes, for sure! Starskiffs rely on the blessing of the gods to sail smoothly. It's way too easy for accidents to happen — unless I pay proper homage to the gods through ritual!
 That's so superstitious...
**Strange Lady:** What do you kn— No! Thou shalt be kind, thou shalt be kind... You must understand that Starskiffs rely on the blessing of the gods to sail smoothly. It's way too easy for accidents to happen — unless I pay proper homage to the gods through ritual!
 Don't lose faith. Give it a few more tries.
**Strange Lady:** Ack, the success of this ritual mainly depends on the purity of your heart. I keep failing at this because my heart isn't pure enough, must've been stained by impurities.
**Strange Lady:** And I've only got three coins left on me. These are special coins minted by my friends to pay homage to the gods... Because they're limited edition, once they're gone, they're really gone.
 Stop that. It's dangerous!
**Strange Lady:** Dangerous? It's dangerous if I don't throw it! Starskiffs are only able to soar through the skies thanks to the blessing of Aeons. \*sigh\* I can't be bothered explaining it to you. Just get out of my way, I'll do one more try.
You rush forward and grab both her hands to prevent her from tossing the coin. She cries out and makes a scene — attracting the attention of officers from the Realm-Keeping Commission.
As the officers begin interrogations. each of you argues your position. As the crowd of onlookers grows and grows, the officer is forced to take you both down to the Chancery.
**Dahao:** This wretched clique of Coin Zealots... Who knows where they got their superstitious ideas from, but they insist on throwing stuff into jade wheels.
**Dahao:** Isn't that utterly dangerous!? If a coin somehow got stuck in the engine and spit out, its velocity would be faster than a speeding bullet. Modern weapons are far scarier, of course, but its impact is still enough to shoot through flesh and bone.
**Dahao:** Thankfully, you stopped her. No wonder you're an esteemed guest of the Xianzhou.
**Dahao:** That officer just then didn't understand the situation and shouldn't have brought you here. I'm sorry about that. Hold onto this, and consider it thanks for doing what's right.
(Obtain Achievement The Crimes That Bind)
(Obtain  Adventure Log ×2 and  Strale ×10)
 Give me coin. I'll help throw it for you.
**Strange Lady:** Oh, you're optimistic! Here you go, take all three and give it a try. Paying homage to the gods is indeed a great virtue. I'll be generous and give you this chance — so don't waste it.
You take the three coins, and aim at the center of the jade wheel.
Hold your breath and focus. Come on! Remember how March 7th draws and shoots her bow. Throwing, shooting — they both rely on accurate aim.
 (Aim at the center of the jade wheel.)
Shoot, what a shame. You almost hit the bullseye. The girl gives you a look that says she doesn't really trust in your abilities.
(Returns to previous options)
 (Aim below the jade wheel.)
The coin doesn't even hit the side of the starskiff, and falls straight into the skybox. The woman doesn't bother concealing her schadenfreude.
(Returns to previous options)
 (Aim above the jade wheel.)
What an incredible throw! The coins land dead in the center of the Jade Wheel!
**Strange Lady:** Alright, I didn't see that coming — you actually did it! Now, we've both guaranteed our sacred virtue. I'll see you next time. I have to shoot off to the Ever-Hunt Plains.
**Jingyan:** Hey, you two! Whaddaya think you're doing!
**Strange Lady:** Rats, it's the cops! Let's get outta here!
**Strange Lady:** Let's split up! You go left, and I'll head right. It's a big scary world out there, and I'm sure our paths will never cross again!
 (Run left.)
**Jingyan:** Think you can shake me by splitting up? Did you think I was born yesterday? Diting! Let's go!
**Strange Lady:** No no no, this guy Diting is really vicious!
 (Run right.)
**Strange Lady:** Can you not tell left from right? I thought we were gonna split up!
**Jingyan:** Fleeing together, are you? Great, two birds with one stone then.
 I can't run anymore...
**Jingyan:** Keep an eye on this perpetrator, Diting. I'm going after the other one.
**Strange Lady:** Ahh nooo! This cop is super fast!
**Dahao:** I didn't want to tell you this, (Trailblazer)... You're a guest here on the Xianzhou. How did you get caught up in this kind of illegal activity?
**Dahao:** This wretched clique of Coin Zealots... Who knows where they got their superstitious ideas from, but they insist on throwing stuff into jade wheels.
**Dahao:** How dangerous! You're lucky that nothing happened to anyone. If a coin somehow got stuck in the engine and spit out, its velocity would be faster than a speeding bullet. Modern weapons are far scarier, of course, but its impact is still enough to shoot through flesh and bone.
**Dahao:** We've already apprehended the other one, and seeing as you're a first-time offender, as well as a guest of the Xianzhou... We'll give you a choice. Either pay a 10,000-credit fine, or complete community service. Which one is it going to be?
 I'll pay up...
**Dahao:** Okay, I'll take that then. It's incredibly dangerous to throw objects into a jade wheel. Please, think twice before you act.
 You might as well lock me in...
**Dahao:** \*sigh\* How should I drill this into your brain... It's a good thing you're a guest of General Jing Yuan, otherwise you'd be arrested already. You're off the hook this time...
**Dahao:** Whatever it is, it's extremely dangerous to chuck coins into a jade wheel. Please do not do things like this ever again.
(Obtain Achievement Flight Cancelled)
(Obtain  Adventure Log ×2 and  Strale ×10)
 (Keep watching.)
**Strange Lady:** Hmm... I just thought of something that can increase the chance of being blessed... Just toss three coins at a time! Even a broken clock is right twice a day!
The woman holds her breath, concentrates intently, and hurls three coins. They scatter and ping the tail of the starskiff, but not a single one hits their mark.
**Strange Lady:** Tsk, forget it... I'll message my friends and tell them I can't make the life-release ceremony. I'm sure it'll be fine...
**Strange Lady:** My friends all say that if I prayed 300 times, the next prayer is sure to come true. By my estimations, my guranteed prayer should be coming up soon, then.
After talking, the woman walked off quietly.
 (Stop watching.)

### Foursquare Mirror

(Standard dialogue)
The Foursquare Mirror, which is the civilian version, is named after its screen in square shape. The Xianzhou dialect is very easy to understand.
The Foursquare Mirror, which is the civilian version, is named after its screen that allows its users to view every corner of the world. The Xianzhou dialect is very confusing.
People in Xianzhou call it a Foursquare Mirror. Isn't it just an electronic display?
It is a bulky electronic display. Besides being used to display advertisements and important announcements, it can make the delve look futuristic.

### Palace of Astrum

Main article: Palace of Astrum § Investigations
### Starwatcher Avenue

Main article: Starwatcher Avenue § Investigations
## NPCs

There are **27** NPCs located in Central Starskiff Haven:

* Back'n
* Chunfen
* Cleo
* Depressed Cycrane
* Dongsheng
* Edelia
* Food Stall Owner
* Forth
* Gao Tang
* Greyla
* Howard
* Jinyu
* Mengming
* Mr. Xiyan
* Mufang
* Pawnbroker Handian
* Qingyue
* Salesby
* Tantan
* Todd
* Wen Furui
* Wenwen
* Xikui
* Xuxia
* Yanming
* Yujin
* Ziqiao

## Change History

Released in **Version 1.0**[Create New History]