"The correspondence with Lady Ningguang concerns a special citizen of Fontaine who has ended up in Liyue..." Neuvillette carefully chose his words, avoiding direct mention of the Melusine's identity. "I have come here with the intention of finding her and ensuring her safety. The lack of complete documents beforehand was due to the unique nature and urgency of the situation."
"Since this matter is quite urgent, I decided to handle it personally. I hope you will forgive any breach of etiquette."
Following this, he took out his identification documents and the letters he had exchanged with Liyue, showed them to Keqing, and then carefully put them away.
"A special citizen?" Keqing raised an eyebrow slightly, her tone softening a little. "For the Chief Justice himself to come personally, the matter must be extraordinary. Liyue Harbor sees countless travelers daily and is a place where all sorts gather; finding someone is not easy. Furthermore, if they are a citizen of Fontaine, why did they end up in Liyue, and why did you need to arrive in such an... unconventional manner?"
The intelligence network of the Sea Gazers Pavilion was not just for show. The sudden, silent appearance of a high-ranking Fontaine official whose power was unfathomable was, in itself, enough to draw the intense attention of the Seven Stars of Liyue.
Neuvillette could sense Keqing's wariness, which was what he expected. He did not rush to explain or elaborate on the Melusine's details, as that would only invite more suspicion.
He maintained absolute honesty and composure: "The reasons involve certain internal, sensitive matters in Fontaine that are inconvenient to disclose publicly. The only thing I can guarantee is that my sole purpose is to find and protect her, with absolutely no intention of causing any harm to Liyue. I respect Liyue's laws and order, which is why I came to report first, rather than acting directly, to avoid unnecessary misunderstandings."
He paused briefly, then continued, a hint of request entering his tone—an emotion extremely rare for Neuvillette: "If the Sea Gazers Pavilion or the Millelith could provide some convenience within a reasonable scope, or at least grant me a degree of... understanding while I conduct my search, I would be deeply grateful. Of course, if Yuheng Star deems it necessary, I can inform you of the progress of my search at any time."
Keqing gazed into Neuvillette's eyes. In those pupils, which seemed capable of reflecting the true nature of a person's heart, there was no deception, only profound calm and sincerity. She pondered for a moment, and the lightning-like sharpness in her gaze slightly receded.
She was not an unreasonable person. The visitor's demonstrated respect for rules and his candor led her to judge that his threat level was low.
"I understand," Keqing finally spoke again, her tone much softer. "Liyue has always treated orderly visitors well and is willing to provide assistance within reason, especially concerning the safety of citizens from other nations. Your report has been officially recorded by the Sea Gazers Pavilion. Regarding the'special citizen' you are looking for, the Sea Gazers Pavilion will keep an eye out for relevant information. As you conduct your own search, please ensure you strictly abide by Liyue's laws and avoid causing any unrest."
She stood up, which was almost a hint for him to leave, but her words granted permission: "I will relay your situation to Ningguang. Should you have any formal needs during your stay, you may contact the Sea Gazers Pavilion Receptionist. Now, you may go and attend to your 'private affairs.' I wish you success."
This was the maximum degree of accommodation and trust Keqing could grant within the scope of her duties.
Neuvillette rose as well, performing a solemn Fontaine courtesy toward Keqing: "Thank you for your understanding and accommodation, Yuheng Star. Please rest assured, I will proceed with caution."
Having received official permission, Neuvillette did not linger. He nodded slightly to Keqing and the Receptionist again, then turned and left the reception room with steady steps.
Keqing stood rooted, watching Neuvillette's departing figure until the door fully closed. Only then did she slightly furrow her brow and murmur to herself: "...I hope he truly is just here to find someone, as he claims."
She turned and instructed the Receptionist, who was respectfully waiting nearby: "Notify the Millelith patrols within the city to keep an eye out for an extraordinary man from Fontaine. If he takes no extreme actions, do not interfere, but monitor his movements closely and report back immediately."
"Yes, Lady Keqing."
On the other side, Neuvillette walked out of the Sea Gazers Pavilion entrance, once again blending into the bustling crowds of Liyue Harbor.
He no longer suppressed his inner urgency, directing his gaze toward the distant docks lined with ships.
The official procedure had been completed, and the obstacles cleared.
Now, it was time to bring his lost compatriot home.
[Bonus Chapter Progress Bar: 64%]
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