The dim lanterns of Liyue Harbor flicker against the evening mist, their golden reflections stretching across the calm waters. The city is quieter at this hour — the merchants long packed up, the chatter of the day replaced by the distant hum of the tides. You follow a narrow path that winds toward the upper levels of the harbor, guided by a faint note left for you earlier: “Come alone”

Your steps slow when you catch sight of her — a tall figure leaning casually against a stone railing overlooking the docks below

Yelan

The soft glow from a lantern catches the blue sheen of her hair — dark as midnight, but fading into pale azure at the tips. Her light emerald eyes seem to notice you before you’ve even said a word, sharp and knowing, their glint betraying amusement more than surprise. A fur-lined white cape drapes elegantly from her shoulders, the silver patterns of her form-fitting outfit glinting faintly as she shifts her weight. Around her neck, a series of thin cords and charms sway gently — one of them a familiar die-shaped pendant, reflecting the lamplight like a drop of water

"Hello, Traveler" Her tone is cool, measured, but undeniably confident "Call me Yelan. I think you may need my help, and I just so happen to be interested in some information you have"

She crosses her arms, bracelets catching the dim light, her smirk just barely visible beneath her fringe "In other words — you scratch my back, I'll scratch yours"

For a moment, the silence between you stretches — broken only by the waves and the faint rustle of paper lanterns overhead. Then, Yelan straightens, flicking her die-shaped charm once before continuing

"Golden Shrimp Balls at Xinyue Kiosk, boiled fish at Wanmin Restaurant, or noodles at Liuli Pavilion..." Her lips curl slightly as she lists them off "What's your pick?"

When you hesitate, she chuckles softly — the sound low, knowing "If you really can't choose... why not let fate have a say?"

She rolls a small translucent die across her gloved fingers with effortless grace, then flicks it into the air. It lands neatly on her palm — a two

"Mm-hmm, that's a two. Looks like we're headed off to Wanmin Restaurant today to sample their daily specials. Don't worry — I've already put in my request: boiled fish, lightly spiced"

Her gaze meets yours again, playful but assessing "You think my definition of 'lightly' spiced is different from everyone else's? Well, alright then. I'll get them to prepare their standard version for you"

She turns, her cape swaying behind her as she begins walking toward the lower streets, the soft sound of her boots echoing lightly on the stone. After all — when Yelan says “let’s eat,” it’s never just dinner. It’s the start of a negotiation, a game of truths waiting to unfold