Gu Sanqiu quickly dressed and hurried downstairs, only to find Aether (the Traveler) sitting there with a steaming cup of tea, his expression fraught with worry.
What's going on?
Even if Aether had fallen out with Rosalyne and Childe, did that mean the Fatui's attitude toward him would change?
Of course not.
As long as Aether still possessed a genuine Delusion, the Fatui wouldn't alter their approach. Whatever Snezhnaya's internal "corporate culture" might be, the relationships among the Harbingers, as Childe had once explained, were far from warm and collegial.
Rosalyne's animosity after being beaten down by Gu Sanqiu was an exception, and his relationship with Childe was defined by mutual clarity. Childe might constantly seek opportunities to stir up trouble, but Gu Sanqiu was equally skilled at keeping him in check.
Outside of their respective allegiances, they could almost be called friends. This mutual understanding was why Childe's expression shifted the moment he realized he was trapped by Gu Sanqiu's formation.
They both knew that their positions and goals made betrayal a constant possibility—and neither would feel surprised or betrayed if it came to that.
Someday, when the conflicts of the world settled, they might truly be lifelong friends.
But not now.
For now, Gu Sanqiu's status as a "friend" of the Doctor—a notoriously ruthless and influential Harbinger—ensured that no one in the Fatui would dare openly disrespect him.
"Aether, what's the matter?"
Aether stood abruptly, setting down his tea. His tone was anxious and clipped.
"Sanqiu, I need help."
Poor kid, thought Gu Sanqiu. He wasn't very talkative to begin with, and now he can't even form proper sentences.
"Take it easy. Tell me what happened. Where's Paimon?"
Gu Sanqiu felt uneasy himself. His relationship with this duo wasn't close enough for him to sense imminent danger, but the thought of Paimon being some hidden powerhouse was deeply unsettling.
If Paimon suddenly revealed her true nature and flipped Mondstadt upside down, would Liyue fare any better?
Please, no catastrophes…
"Uh, I… need to borrow some money," Aether stammered.
Huh?
Gu Sanqiu blinked. "Sorry, I didn't catch that. Say it again."
Aether took a deep breath. "I want to borrow money."
What?!
Gu Sanqiu raised an eyebrow, eyeing the blonde-haired traveler skeptically. "If I remember correctly, Honorary Knights receive a monthly stipend, not to mention the bonus you must've gotten for your work. Didn't you also get a free apartment? How are you out of money?"
Aether looked helpless as he gestured toward the Good Hunter's outdoor seating area.
"Come with me. You'll see."
Gu Sanqiu followed, his curiosity growing. When they reached the restaurant, Aether pointed to a table piled high with plates—stacked nearly as tall as a person.
"Here. This."
Gu Sanqiu was struck silent by the sight.
On a nearby table, empty plates were stacked just as high. Good Hunter's waitstaff were clearly doing their best to clear them away, but they couldn't keep up with the rapid pace at which new dishes were being consumed.
"That… is Paimon?" Gu Sanqiu asked, finally piecing it together.
The sight explained Aether's embarrassment and desperation. Borrowing money was one thing, but the sheer volume of food Paimon had devoured was terrifying.
Gu Sanqiu could only imagine what Aether was thinking. If most people saw their crush—or traveling partner, in this case—unleash such a monstrous appetite, they'd probably run for the hills.
I can't afford this. No way.
Gu Sanqiu squinted at Aether. "Wait, after I left yesterday, did Venti give you guys some weird food or something?"
Paimon's appetite reminded him of those novel protagonists who accidentally consumed rare treasures, only to become voracious as they rapidly absorbed energy.
Aether shook his head. "No."
Then what is going on?
Gu Sanqiu sighed. Paimon's full of mysteries—nothing surprising there.
"So, you need the money because of this?"
Aether nodded awkwardly.
Fine. With Paimon's appetite, even the bonus they earned from the Bloodshadow Dragon fight wouldn't be enough.
After thinking for a moment, Gu Sanqiu pulled out a small pouch and handed it to Aether.
"There are a few decent-quality gemstones inside. Selling one should be enough to cover the bill."
"This… this is too valuable!" Aether protested, shaking his head.
"It's fine." Gu Sanqiu patted his shoulder reassuringly. "I didn't bring much cash with me either. Restaurants usually have experts who appraise gems and provide detailed reports. Besides, judging by Paimon's appetite, this meal might cost half a gem anyway. You'd better brace yourself."
Aether hesitated but eventually took the pouch, looking both grateful and mortified.
Gu Sanqiu crossed his arms, studying the situation. Paimon's abnormal appetite probably isn't her default state. It must've been triggered by something external.
A soft breeze swept past, and Barbatos's voice echoed in Gu Sanqiu's mind.
"Take these two to Wyrmrest Valley again. Something good might happen! Love, your favorite uncle Barbatos."
What?! This is connected to Venti?
Gu Sanqiu's brow furrowed as he sent out a mental reply along the same channel.
"What are you up to this time? Don't tell me it's some cliché nonsense about Durin's shadow resurrecting. If it is, bringing them there is just feeding them to the wolves."
"Hehe, don't be like that," Venti's voice replied, light and mischievous. "As your elder, wouldn't I only think of the best for you, my dear nephew?"
Gu Sanqiu rolled his eyes as Venti continued, his tone taking on an air of mystery.
"If all goes as planned, you should see a hidden domain appear. Remember to bring them along! Oh, and don't forget to mention that this valuable tip came from your amazing Uncle Venti—it might just be your big opportunity~"