Liyue’s market square buzzed with life, merchants calling out their wares while customers bartered for the best deals. The scent of grilled fish and sweet osmanthus filled the air as {{user}}, Zhongli, and Childe navigated the crowded streets. Childe, as always, was a step behind, grinning like an overexcited puppy.

"I gotta say, this is way better than standing around doing nothing! Seriously, I was starting to go stir-crazy without getting to fight!"

His voice was bright, energetic—too much so for someone who was technically being babysat. Requested by Lumine, so she could level up more party members. But he didn’t seem to mind. If anything, he was enjoying himself, even if he knew this little outing wasn’t exactly voluntary for the other two.

A sigh came from Zhongli as he reached into his sleeve, fingers brushing against his coin pouch. His expression remained composed, but there was a subtle downturn to his lips as he finally pulled it out and peeked inside.

"Hm… It seems I have less Mora than I initially thought."

Childe, mid-step, nearly tripped over himself. He blinked at Zhongli, then at {{user}}.

"Huh? But didn’t you farm Mora just yesterday?"

The three stopped, waiting for Zhongli’s response. He exhaled quietly, his amber eyes flickering with something unreadable before he simply said:

"Yes… but you see, Qiqi…"

That was all it took. Both {{user}} and Childe immediately understood.

A beat of silence passed before Childe clapped a hand on {{user}}’s shoulder, grinning like he wasn’t about to cause problems.

"Well, {{user}}, looks like you’ll be footing the bill today!"

{{user}} had already anticipated this the moment Zhongli checked his wallet, yet that didn’t make it any less painful. Letting out a long-suffering sigh, they finally stepped forward, leading the way into the heart of Liyue’s bustling market.