A Teacher and a Friend

Mission Type

Adventure Mission

Requirements

Trailblaze Mission Humming Antlers, Entwined Horns completed

Starting Location(s)

The Xianzhou Luofu - Artisanship Commission

Previous Mission

Next Mission

N/A

A Teacher and a Friend: Interlude

Rewards
Summary
Characters

250

40

1

25

15,000

Chengjie gathered his courage and committed to completing his master's unfinished design.
Like any inspirational story, Chengjie found renewed energy and determination.

Chengjie, Qingque, Trailblazer

A Teacher and a Friend is an Adventure Mission on the Xianzhou Luofu.

Steps

Head to the Artisanship Commission and find Qingque
Look for Master Ryan's manuscript in the Sapientia Academe
Find the correct manuscript from the variety of manuscripts
Hand the damaged manuscript to Chengjie
Bring a dejected Chengjie to Starskiff Haven to clear his mind
Head to the bridge above Starskiff Haven and look at the passing starskiffs
Hand the IPC Designer Invite to Chengjie
Head toward Stargazer Navalia
Locate a Growing Starskiff: Germination Phase
Take a photo of a starskiff in its germination phase
Locate a Growing Starskiff: Embryonic Phase
Take a photo of a starskiff in its embryonic phase
Take a photo of a starskiff in its embryonic phase
Locate a Growing Starskiff: Nutritive Phase
Take a photo of a starskiff in its nutritive phase
Locate a Growing Starskiff: Forming Phase
Take a photo of Chengjie with a starskiff

Dialogue

Read message from Qingque

Messages
Qingque

Qingque

Hey there. I heard folks from the Artisanship Commission say that you helped clear the Ambrosial Arbor coils. You're indeed as saintly as the general says you are

It doesn't sound like a compliment to me.

(Trailblazer)

Saintly? That doesn't sound much like a compliment

Qingque

Of course it's a compliment. I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Only when busy people get busy do slackers get a chance to slack off

But, based on your past experience, won't you get a sort of a hunch when I message flatteries to you?

...A hunch? Like, this person wants something from me?

What do you want from me

(Trailblazer)

So, what do you want from me?

Can I pretend not to know?

(Trailblazer)

How about this? You recall the message now, and we forget about the whole thing

Qingque

No!

Sounds like you need a favor

(Trailblazer)

Don't beat around the bush. What's the matter?

Qingque

It seems that you are already used to pleasantries people use on Xianzhou, and know when the work will come. You will go far, young (man/lady)! I believe you will soon understand my three basic principles for happiness at work

But the trouble comes from me this time. Please don't shrug it off and do help me

That's me alright!

(Trailblazer)

I am brave and kind. and I love to help others.

Qingque

Great! A brave and kind person like you can definitely help me

Qingque

Do you remember the craftsmen apprentice named Chengjie from the Artisanship Commission?

I don't remember

(Trailblazer)

I don't remember

Qingque

It's okay if you don't remember. Come to the Artisanship Commission. I'll show him to you

I kinda remember

(Trailblazer)

Chengjie, the apprentice... I think I remember him

Qingque

Then that's easy

Qingque

I was sent here by the master diviner to assist the Artisanship Commission in assess the damages.

Everything was going well, but now the situation with Chengjie is getting beyond my scope of work...

Can you come over to find me? I am at the Artisanship Commission's port

Accepted Mission

A Teacher and a Friend

Head to the Artisanship Commission and find Qingque

Mission Description

Qingque from the Divination Commission has been sent by the master diviner to assess the site post-disaster and seems to have run into some troubles that are "beyond her scope of work," requiring your help.
Speaking of, what is Qingque's scope of work? Isn't it to oversee the repository?

Artisanship Commission

(Approach Qingque and Chengjie)

Qingque: You're here!

Heard you've got some problems you'd like a hand with?

Qingque: It's not so much a problem for me, as it is for this guy... Since Master Chengjie is here now, maybe he can talk about it himself?

Chengjie: I'm just a young apprentice who cannot graduate, so I'm not qualified to lead any team. Please don't call me "Master".

Qingque I'm just saying it for convenience's sake. Don't worry about it, Chengjie.

Chengjie: Ah, I remember you. You are the great hero Master Gongshu mentioned. He said you helped him fight off all the monnn~stersss~ in the commission.

Chengjie: I really envy you. I can't do anything. I'm just a piece of trash wasting my days away at the Artisanship Commission... Every time I come across something dangerous, I flee in fear. I'm such a chicken, and I've got no sense of ar~ti~san~ship...

Why are you so self-pitying all of a sudden?

Chengjie: It's not sudden at all. I've been depressed ever since I found out that I lost my master's manuscript.

Is that what Master Gongshu told you?

Chengjie: Master Gongshu didn't say anything to me, but I know he's thinking it deep down.

Chengjie: If I were a true~ ar~ti~san~, there's no way I could've lost my master's manuscript.

Fear of death is pretty normal.

Qingque: Yep. like, seriously, what's more normal than being afraid to die?

Chengjie: ...But I was doing that, and still lost my master's manuscript. It is absolutely unforgivable.

Chengjie: The manuscript is my master's legacy work of his lifetime, and it's the only copy in the whole galaxy.

During his lifetime? Do you mean Master Gongshu is dead?

Legacy work? What happened to Master Gongshu?

Chengjie: (Sir/Miss), please get a hold of yourself. The one who passed away is Master Ryan, a craftsman who used to be my mentor when I first joined the Artisanship Commission. It's not my current teacher, Master Gongshu.

Chengjie: *sigh* My master's manuscript should have gone down in Xianzhou's history... But I was too busy saving my own skin and didn't take it out with me. I really am utt~er~ly~ use~less~

Why didn't you make a copy of something so important?

Chengjie: I feel even worse now!

Qingque: Well, if I were in his shoes and didn't save or back up any of the Divination Commission's files, I wouldn't even dare to sleep.

Chengjie: What you said is true, but it's too late for regrets. It's impossible to make a copy of it now.

Is this manuscript really that important?

Chengjie: I'm not very learned, and I've always felt intimidated and under-qualified to face this manuscript.

Chengjie: This manuscript is Master Ryan's magnum opus. I thought that one day I'd be able to actualize its visions myself... But now I won't even get the chance to try.

Just find the manuscript, and you'll be fine right?

Chengjie: But the Artisanship Commission is filled with uncontrolled ingenia, and the abominations awakened by the Ambrosial Arbor... I dare not...

So you'd like me to take over from here?

Qingque: That's great, (Trailblazer). Are you really willing to help me find the lost manuscript?

...Is this why you've invited me over, Qingque?

Qingque: I didn't expect things to turn out like this.

Qingque: Argh, don't mind me right now. Just help Chengjie find that manuscript.

I see. If it's lost, it's lost.

Qingque: You're right. What's lost is lost.

Chengjie: ...Miss Qingque?

Qingque: But! (Trailblazer) has fought off the Abominations of Abundance before, recovered the Creation Furnace, and became a hero at the Artisanship Commission. Helping Chengjie find that manuscript should be a piece of cake that you'd never refuse, right?

Qingque: Right? Right? Riiight?

Chengjie: ... Miss Qingque, are we pushing it too far?

Qingque: Just let the right people handle the right things. Besides, it's too dangerous for you to go back alone.

I agree, but only on one condition.

Qingque: What condition?

You must come with me.

Don't even think about slacking off this time.

I'm out. Ask someone else to help.

Qingque: Hey, let's talk this out instead of throwing in the towel, okay?

Not unless Qingque comes with me.

Not fair if you are the only one who gets to slack off.

Chengjie: Miss Qingque, I'm begging you!

Qingque: Well, so much for my lazy day plans. Anyways, got any leads on the manuscript? Those manuscript thingies all seem identical to me.

Chengjie: After Master Ryan passed, his manuscripts were packed away by the Artisanship Commission. It should be placed in the Sapientia Academe.

Chengjie: My master's dream was to create a starskiff that nobody's ever seen before. There should be words like "Starskiff designs," "keel structure," "Starskiff engine" on his manuscript.

Qingque: That's enough for us. If you keep using more of these fancy words, we ain't gonna understand anything. Let's just head out, (Trailblazer).

(Talk to Chengjie again): Chengjie: Please, bring Mr. Ryan's manuscript back in one piece. I leave it in your capable hands.

(Immediately after dialogue ends): Qingque: I knew it was gonna be trouble when the master diviner assigned me to the Artisanship Commission.; Qingque: ...Seriously, I'm just a lowly custodian who looks after the repository.

Look for Master Ryan's manuscript in the Sapientia Academe

Step Description

After understanding what plagues Chengjie, Qingque and you decide to help him out with recovering his master's manuscript.
Chengjie didn't want to go back to the Sapientia Academe because he didn't want to bother the Cloud Knights for something small like this... Do you feel angry at the way he didn't want to bother the Cloud Knights but is so nonchalant about bothering you?

Artisanship Commission

(Upon approaching the location)

Qingque: This is the Sapiente Academe. Stay sharp and expect the unexpected.

You go in and find the manuscript. I'll keep watch at the door.

Qingque: Alright. I'll go in there.

I'll go in and find the manuscript. You keep watch at the door.

Qingque: You're so sweet. But I'm simply not qualified to help you watch the door.

Qingque: ...How about I go in and look for it. You keep watch out here.

Let's both go in.

Qingque: Great. You take care of ninety percent of the area, and I'll take the rest. Go!

After a long period of rummaging around, the alarm was not triggered, and countless dusty old documents were unearthed.

They're like toys that have been kicked under the sofa by some uninterested cat, with no chance of seeing the light of day.

In addition to all the manuscripts lying about, there's an envelope titled IPC Designer Invite. Judging by the date, it's already over 120 years old.

Qingque: It was pitch black in there, so to save trouble, I pulled out everything that looked like a design manuscript. Why don't we sift through these here and see which one of them is Mr. Ryan's?

You have to help me look for it.

Qingque: ...I don't plan on slacking off.

Qingque: But you know how I am. I'm not exactly the most enthusiastic worker around here, so do try to cut me some slack. You were just starting to sound like the master diviner.

Will do.

Qingque: Alrighty then, I'll take a break and leave the rest to you.

Qingque: If there's anything you don't understand, just ask, but I'm not too familiar with the documentation systems at the Artisanship Commission.

Qingque: I often hear from mates that "messing with a craftsman's toolbox is like choking off a craftsman's neck". Once, we find the right manuscript, we'll have to out the rest back promptly — otherwise, the Artisanship Commission folks will come after me.

Find the correct manuscript from the variety of manuscripts

Step Description

Neither you nor Qingque is familiar with the manuscripts in the Artisanship Commission. Better to bring along all the manuscripts you can find before identifying the right one.
You flip the pages like a clueless investor picking flaws in a designer's work. It feels good.

Artisanship Commission

(Investigate the pile)

Investigate

This is a design manuscript that explains the working principles behind the Luminflux Pyxis, which seems to be related to a kind of demon called Heliobi. And this design is attributed to Master Gongshu.

That's the one!

Qingque: But Chengjie said that Mr. Ryan's wish is to create a new starskiff, right, (Trailblazer)?

(Continue onto dialogue options below)

(Second document)

This is a blueprint for the aurumatons' exterior design, meticulously documented by an anonymous craftsman who seemed to have an unwavering commitment to aesthetics. This craftsman scrawled in frustration upon this manuscript: "Those fools know nothing of beauty! All they do is besmirch my gorgeous aurumatons".

Previous one.

(Return to previous dialogue)

That's the one!

Qingque: This design talks about aurumatons, not starskiffs. Easy enough to tell apart, no? Keep going.

Next.

(Continue onto dialogue options below)

(Third document)

This is a manuscript about the design of a type of starskiff, showcasing its structural finesse. The blueprint boasts a cultivation method for a lightweight keel that promises tighter turns, faster speeds, and much longer voyages, far outstripping any other vessel on the market.

Previous one.

(Return to previous dialogue)

That's the one!

Qingque: This looks like the one. Give it to me.

Next.

(Continue onto dialogue options below)

(Fourth document)

This is an event proposal that mentioned a spatial fusion device called "Hexanexus." The organizers realized that these Rubik's Cube-like contraptions were not getting any attention, so they decided to take matters into their own hands and awkwardly place them in every nook and cranny of the venue.

"There's bound to be someone who is curious enough to try to solve these. All our efforts will not be in vain!"

Previous one.

(Return to previous dialogue)

That's the one!

Qingque: Whoa, look closer! This manuscript looks like something straight out of a secret society. It's definitely not this...

Qingque: I'll keep this manuscript for the time being. After all, I'll be outshined by you if I go back empty-handed.

Qingque: However, this "IPC Designer Invite" seems pretty important too. I suppose it's kept in the same place as this starskiff manuscript. We should probably take it with us?

Let Chengjie decide for himself.

Qingque: You're right. Let's get him to see it for himself.

That doesn't seem necessary.

Qingque: It was placed alongside this starskiff manuscript. They seem to have a connection, so let's take it with us.

Qingque: Anyways, lemme tell you a pro tip for the workplace: If it exists, just bring it, even if your boss didn't explicitly ask for it. If the master diviner wants something and I don't have it on me, then I'll just say it doesn't exist, and everything that does exist is already with me. This way, I'll never have to run back for things.

Qingque: What would you do if Chengjie said, "Oh, I suddenly remembered. That invite is also important"? I wouldn't want to keep running back and forth. It's gonna be so tiring.

Qingque: ...But if he doesn't ask about this, it's really not appropriate to just hand it over to him, so I'll leave it with you for now.

Ugh, how troublesome.

Qingque: Come on, you gotta learn to work smarter.

Suddenly, I don't wanna work on the job anymore.

Qingque: That's how I feel every day actually... But work has to get done. That's why I downgraded my mantra from "How to avoid work" to "How to slack off at work." You should learn from my work philosophy.

Monster's Voice: Oh boohoo...

Qingque: What noise is that...?

Qingque: Uh-oh, there're monsters nearby. Be careful, (Trailblazer)!
(Commence battle against Entranced Ingenium: Obedient Dracolion x1, Entranced Ingenium: Illumination Dragonfish x2, and Entranced Ingenium: Golden Cloud Toad x1)

(After winning the battle)

Qingque: ...D-Darn it. I've got some bad news.

Qingque: The starskiff design manuscript that Chengjie wanted is damaged... What should we do?

Just be honest and tell him the truth.

Qingque: Oh no, this is bad... I'm gonna get blamed for this and go down in Xianzhou's history as an eternal sinner... Let's go apologize now...

Just say it got wrecked by some monsters long ago.

Qingque: That's a good point. We can just blame it all on monsters. Even if we don't find it, they would have been all damaged by monsters.

Qingque: Good, that's what we'll tell Chengjie.

Let's just pretend that we didn't find anything.

Qingque: Are you telling me that we shouldn't even give him this damaged starskiff design manuscript...? That's wrong, isn't it?

Qingque: It's my fault. My concerns have had you overthinking. We should just tell him the truth, and it's for the best.

(Obtain IPC Designer Invite)

Hand the damaged manuscript to Chengjie

Step Description

You managed to find Master Ryan's manuscript, but a sudden ambush damaged it.
However, what else could you have done? At least there were several complete pages left. Hand them all to Chengjie, at least you would've completed the task.

Artisanship Commission

(Approach Chengjie): Chengjie: You're back. Did you find my master's manuscript for the starskiff?; Qingque: About that, I'd like to explain a bit more in detail.; Chengjie: Something happened to the manuscript? No way!; Qingque: How to put this...

Qingque tries to be as dramatic as possible while describing how the manuscript was retrieved. Chengjie seems to have a good idea of the situation after listening to everything.

Chengjie: Thank you. At least you managed to bring back the remaining parts of the manuscript. But I should be blamed for this. If I had been more brave and taken the manuscript with me as I fled...

Chengjie: Boo hoo wahh —

Qingque: Chengjie, are you okay?

Chengjie: Oh, I'm such a wimp. How can I be such a good-for-nothing? I keep saying I'm all about my master's manuscript and his dream, but all I did was sit here, waiting for you guys to do it for me.

Chengjie: I can't even protect a manuscript. What kind of Artisanship Commision craftsman am I?

No need to beat yourself up.

Chengjie: Master Ryan's mighty name reverberates down through the ages. All he left in his career as a craftsman was his manuscript, and yet I...

This has nothing to do with you being a craftsman.

Chengjie: But every time I pick up my tools, I can only think of my master teaching me these artisan skills. And as soon as I think of these skills, I'll remember that I lost his final manuscript. I-I can't go on like this.

I'm sorry about this accident.

Chengjie: This isn't your fault. Mr. Ryan's damaged manuscript is absolutely positively my fault, so I'll take the blame.

Qingque: ((Trailblazer), we can't let him be depressed like this. Say something, or I'll start feeling guilty.)

You should complete the missing part of the manuscript.

Chengjie: No! Asking me to fill my master's shoes would be like asking a toddler to duplicate the most famous art piece in the world.

Qingque: *sigh* If I'm in low spirits at work, I'll simply pick out a wide open space to take a wee stroll.

Qingque: How about this? Let's put the manuscript aside and pick up mood at Starskiff Haven, huh?

Chengjie: I can't stay at the Artisanship Commision anymore. I'm homeless, and it doesn't matter where I go.

Forget about the manuscript for now. Let's take a break!

Qingque: Yes, yes. Let's go to Starskiff Haven. There's good food, fun stuff, and lots of people there.

Chengjie: I don't think there's any need for that. But I can't stay at the Artisanship Commision anymore. I'm homeless, so it doesn't matter where I go.

Qingque: Then let's head out! Destination: Starskiff Haven.

Bring a dejected Chengjie to Starskiff Haven to clear his mind

Step Description

Unable to deal with the loss, Chengjie sank into a state of despair. You and Qingque, being the good-natured people that you are, decided to bring Chengjie to have a walk.
Many people walk through Starskiff Haven daily. It can be a good place to calm down a bit... Then again, if you have social anxiety, being here may actually make you more anxious.

Central Starskiff Haven

(Upon approaching the location)

Qingque: Chengjie, don't be so crestfallen. Look, there's food and drink, there's the Sleepless Earl for tea, and there's Starwatcher Avenue for shopping. So, where do you wanna go?

Chengjie: We can go whenever. Miss Qingque, you call the shots.

Qingque: (Trailblazer), what do you want to do?

Let's go eat some snacks!

Qingque: Alright, we'll go to a snacks stall and see if there's anything good to eat.

Let's go to the Sleepless Earl and order a pot of tea!

Qingque: I'm thinking a cup of Immortal's Delight tea would be good. Let's go.

Oh, oh, I know a comedy duo who does crosstalk!

Qingque: Cool! Actually, I often binge watch immersias about comedy crosstalks at home, and they're so fun.

We can go anywhere you want.

Qingque: Why are you being so passive as well? Ah, fine, I'll call the shots then. Let's go and eat those snacks first.

Chengjie: ...

Qingque: Come on, let's go!

(If "Let's go eat some snacks!" or "We can go anywhere you want." option is selected)

Food Stall Owner: Berrypheasant Skewers, Tuskpir Wrap, Steamed Puffergoat Milk... plus the famous mystery steamed stuffed buns that everyone's been eating lately!

Qingque: Chengjie, what do you want? It's my treat!

Chengjie: Thanks, Miss Qingque. That's very generous. I... I don't want to eat anything.

Food Stall Owner: It's okay if you don't want to eat. You two, what do you want?

Give me one of everything, thanks.

Qingque: How about you wait a bit and eat later... We'll lead Chengjie elsewhere and take a stroll.

I don't want to eat anything either.

Qingque: Let's go. I wanna see if Chengjie has any ideas about any other places.

(If "Oh, oh, I know a comedy duo who does crosstalk!" option is selected)

Forth: ...Honestly, a lot of folks don't know that you and I go way back. We actually studied together.

Back'n: Yup, that's right. We've studied under the same master.

Forth: But even though we studied under the same master, we aren't exactly on the same level.

Back'n: Huh? What are you trying to say?

Forth: Take me for example. I'm an "apprentice." Those a bit higher will be called "disciples." Those a bit higher again will be called "prized pupils."

Back'n: What about me?

Chengjie: ...Boohoo, I'm just a lowly degenerate in comparison.

Forth: Hey audience. Please don't steal my line.

Chengjie, don't disturb the performance.

Qingque: ...Well, this hits too close to home and might trigger some emotions. Let's just skip this show for now.

Qingque: How about we go elsewhere for a walk?

Well said.

Qingque: Hey, quit joking around. How about we go elsewhere for a walk?

Chengjie, let's go elsewhere.

(If "Let's go to the Sleepless Earl and order a pot of tea!" option is selected)

Mengming: Is there any tea you'd like to drink? I'm your server today.

Qingque: Hey Chengjie, you sit here and enjoy the tea, and I'll slip out to get some snacks...

Chengjie: Thanks, Miss Qingque. That's very generous. But I don't want any tea or snacks.

Chengjie: I can see you have a lot in your mind, and I don't want to pressure you. Please take your seat and call me whenever you like.

Anyway, let's get a cup of Immortal's Delight!

Qingque: I want some drink too, but if we only let Chengjie watch us two drinking... Well, it'd be putting the cart before the horse, wouldn't it?

Perhaps now is not the time to savor a pot of tea?

Qingque: You're right. How about we go elsewhere for a walk?

(Either options will lead to this dialogue)

Chengjie: ...Starskiff Haven... Starskiffs... I just want to see starskiffs soaring through space.

Are you still thinking about the manuscript?

Chengjie: I'm simply incapable of thinking about anything else. Take me to see the starskiffs, and maybe I'll get some closure.

Let's go! We'll go look at some starskiffs!

Qingque: Let's go then. We can go to bridge and watch from there.

Head to the bridge above Starskiff Haven and look at the passing starskiffs

Step Description

Chengjie evidently did not have the mood to do anything else other than watch starskiffs. So let's go starskiff-watching on the bridge of the Xianzhou Luofu.
Starskiff Haven sees many starskiffs in a day. What kind of starskiffs does Chengjie want to see?

Central Starskiff Haven

(Upon approaching the location)

Chengjie: Starskiffs should be a familiar sight for all Xianzhou citizens.

Chengjie: I crisscrossed the skies on skiffs every day, watching the buildings on either side rush by, just like they have for a hundred years.

Chengjie: Lots of Xianzhou people are just like me, who never really thought about "the cleverness and technological advancements behind the starskiff." We just took it for granted and thoughtlessly enjoyed its convenience.

Chengjie: "Good design is practical, and the more practical it is, the harder it is to be appreciated," is what my master always said. He's [sic] loved starskiffs dearly his whole life, and hoped to build an even better model.

Chengjie: I should have been a starskiff designer myself. But my grades were too low, and before I could even finish studying, my master passed away. And now, I can't even protect the manuscript that he's left behind...

That manuscript is all that's left for your bond.

Chengjie: You think too highly of me. I don't dare see myself as that important... If anything, the manuscript is what's left of my master's bond with the Xianzhou.

Chengjie: My master used to say, "A craftsman doesn't need a gravestone," because everything they craft is left behind in the works they make.

Chengjie: It's a shame that Master Ryan's brilliant but short life didn't allow him to see his final ideas come to fruition. I feel really sad about it. I want to make his last dream a reality and leave a mark for him in the history of Xianzhou.

You and your master seem really close.

Chengjie: No... Master Ryan was always so nice to me, but my level was technically never good enough to be his apprentice — I lacked the talent and was too lazy, but he never casted me aside.

Chengjie: All I felt was powerlessness and regret when confronted by the genius of his work after his passing. I hated that I wasted my apprenticeship, not knowing how to carry out my master's final designs.

Chengjie: *Sigh* We've only had twenty years of apprenticeship between us, and it's all gone so fast.

Twenty years! You've been learning from him for that long?

Chengjie: Twenty odd years –Almost a quarter of a short-life species' existence, but on Xianzhou it's far too short. master Gongshu took care of disciples for several hundred years, and his disciples have now taken disciples of their own.

Chengjie: Just like that, before I knew it, my master had passed away... It's been almost a hundred years now. I still don't have the courage to face his manuscript. And now...

Qingque: Over a hundred years? Hang on, this sounds familiar...

Qingque: Ah, yes! That invite!

So your master wasn't actually from Xianzhou?

Chengjie: Yes. But since I got to know him, he's [sic] never left the Luofu. He was more local than the locals. He used to joke with me that if it weren't for me, he would've gone to join the IPC.

Qingque: Hang on... He may not have been joking around with you. We've found an IPC Designer Invite!

Qingque: (Trailbrazer), do you have the invite? Quickly, let's show Chengjie.

Hand the IPC Designer Invite to Chengjie

Step Description

Obviously, Chengjie didn't know about the invitation the Interastral Peace Corporation extended to Master Ryan, and Master Ryan never told him.
You wonder if the invitation letter would cause more guilt to Chengjie. However, if you don't hand it over, it might cause you to feel guilty as well.

Central Starskiff Haven

(Talk to Chengjie)

Chengjie: A Designer Invite? For my master?

(Hand over the invite)

(Submit IPC Designer Invite)

Chengjie: Ryan Masteronzo... Th—This indeed was my master's name. And this date, was the very same day 120 years ago when he took me on as his disciple!

Chengjie: He chose me and stayed at the Artisanship Commission. He gave up the Interastral Peace Corporation...

Qingque: We're both confused here. Could you please tell us the story between you and Master Ryan?

Chengjie: Mmm... But I'm not a natural storyteller. This might take a while.

That's cool. Tell me all the details.

Chengjie: The Artisanship Commission has never turned away any students from outside of the Xianzhou. They are full of energy and ideas, and are always looking to learn knowledge and skills from the Xianzhou... And Master Ryan was one of those Outworlders.

Chengjie: I think he was originally a materials researcher. After coming aboard the Luofu to study, he was granted the status of craftsman, which is proof of accreditation for foreign students.

Chengjie: Usually, these short-life species leave after graduation, returning to their homeworld or finding other work.

Chengjie: Because they soon realize that their enthusiasm and talent pale in comparison to what long-life species have seen. This is a gulf of time that very few short-life species can bridge. Most people can only sigh at this barrier.

Chengjie: Plus, the long-life craftsmen often look down on the short-life outworlders with an arrogant attitude that cuts deeper than the "gulf of time." It's no wonder my master wanted to leave at first.

Chengjie: At the time, I was also struggling with my dwindling career. I studied starskiff manufacturing but didn't have any knack for it. Lots of masters told me to stop and that there was no point in staying at the Artisanship Commission.

Chengjie: I'm not sure why, but Master Ryan decided to take me on as an apprentice. Just as I was falling to the rock bottom, he reached out and gave me the strength to keep going.

Qingque: So, two people who planned on leaving ended up staying. That's what you could call "fate," right?

Chengjie: I just needed one person to tell me, "I'll take you on as an apprentice". But my master, he... He could have left and been a top designer at the IPC, but he stayed behind instead. Why?

Because he wanted to stay at the Artisanship Commission.

Because he could see himself in you.

Because he wanted to study starskiffs.

Qingque: He went through hard times, and seeing you isolated and alone reminded him of being a short-life species at the Artisanship Commission.

Qingque: This feeling is not the same as sympathy. Deep in his heart, helping you is like helping his past version of himself. You were his apprentice, and his best friend.

Chengjie: I never put this much thought into it. I just remember that my master was willing to teach, and I was willing to learn. Looking back, all those years were filled with happy memories, but time passes so fast.

Chengjie: Before I realized what was happening, his hair was already gray. One ordinary afternoon, he said he was a little tired and wanted to rest — but he fell down at his worktable, and never woke up again.

Chengjie: Time is unfair to everyone. His time has ended, yet here I am, wasting away my mediocre days...

Please cut to the chase.

Chengjie: Master Ryan was a short-life species who came here as an outworlder student.

Chengjie: Most students leave after finishing their studies. It's because short-life species simply cannot rack up the centuries of experience that long-life species can. The artisans at the Artisanship Commission also seem to have a bit of a bias against the short-life species.

Chengjie: The old masters had high requirements for selecting apprentices. I was but a person of mediocre talent, and kept hitting setbacks when looking for tutelage. Just when I was thinking about quitting, I never expected Master Ryan to take me on.

Chengjie: Later on, we studied and learned together, passing the days happily... But as a short-life species, my master soon reached the limit of his life.

Chengjie: When did it all begin? In the blink of an eye, his hair went white. And with another blink of the eye, he'd suddenly fallen over at his desk.

Qingque: That's how things usually end when a long-life species makes friends with a short-life species.

Chengjie: I owe my master so much. I'm lazy by nature and always put things off. If I could've graduated earlier, I wouldn't be left here with my regrets like I am now.

It's never too late to graduate.

Then you definitely shouldn't be giving up!

...Regret also has its own beauty.

Qingque: Don't regret just yet. It's never too late for you to graduate now.

Qingque: Take this damaged manuscript as the final exam paper left behind by your master. If you can complete your master's starskiff design, then that means you can graduate.

Chengjie: Complete the damaged manuscript? Can I really do it?

Chengjie: No, this is the last possible thing I can do for my master. I have to do it! I'm definitely gonna do this!

Qingque: That's right! If there's anything we can do to help, just say the word, but if everything's all good now, then...

Chengjie: Okay! I want to see the whole manufacturing chain for starskiffs. Can you take me to see it?

Qingque: Hmm... (Trailblazer), how about it?

I'm curious too about how starskiffs are built.

Chengjie: I get the basic principles of starskiff manufacturing, but I've never personally been there to see the production line or the process with my own eyes.

Chengjie: To complete his legacy, I have to be down-to-earth and experience production just like a real craftsman does.

Qingque: I guess... I can't escape the work of being a guide, huh, (Trailblazer)?

If you're gonna help someone, you gotta see it through, right?

Qingque: Seems like you two get along well, and I'm not familiar with Stargazer Navalia, so how about I head back first?

No, you have to come with us.

Qingque: That seems to be above my pay grade.

Qingque: *sigh* Fine, I'll come along.

It's so rare to have Chengjie in good spirits...

Qingque: If I can cheer up Chengjie, then I'd better go...

You're a craftsman, but you haven't seen how it's manufactured?

Chengjie: All I know are the basic principles of starskiff manufacturing, but I've never personally been there to see the production line or the process with my own eyes.

Chengjie: Why else would I say I'm a failure as a student...

Qingque: Alas, I have a profound understanding of how hard it is for untalented students such as ourselves to study. (Trailblazer) and I will come up with a way to support you.

Chengjie: That's great. This cannot wait, so let's get going to Stargazer Navalia!

Head toward Stargazer Navalia

Step Description

Chengjie wanted to witness the birth of starskiffs with his own eyes at Stargazer Navalia, where monsters currently roam. Luckily for him, combat is your forte, so he asked you along...
You kind of wish people would pay more attention to your talents, those beautiful aspects of you, and not just "you can fight."

Stargazer Navalia

(Reach the marked location)

Chengjie: Getting your own designs onto the assembly lines in Stargazer Navalia is the dream of all craftsmen in Xianzhou.

Chengjie: Master Ryan mentioned countless times how he helped optimize an engine here that's been mass-produced here and sold all over the place. However, that engine became obsolete over the past century and has fallen to the annals of history.

Chengjie: But he always used to say "good design should be timeless"...

Qingque: ...Chengjie, just tell me straight. How can we help you?

Chengjie: First up, there're monsters causing trouble around Stargazer Navalia, so I need your protection. Next, I need some visual data in Stargazer Navalia to complement this manuscript.

Qingque: In other words, some visiographs, right?

Chengjie: There are many steps in the starskiff manufacturing process, and each one is important.

Has Chengjie started to get motivated yet?

Chengjie: I want to go through the process of starskiff manufacturing again. I have a hunch that I can recreate the motivation to "create" once more.

We're not just in charge of taking photos, are we?

Chengjie: I'll explain the manufacturing principles to you laypeople, so at least the whole trip won't be in vain.

Qingque: Then let's get going.

Locate a Growing Starskiff: Germination Phase

Step Description

The cultivation of a starskiff is divided into several phases. Chengjie wanted to see the process between a starskiff seed and a fully cultivated vessel.
You have been to Stargazer Navalia a few times, but you probably haven't noticed that starskiffs are grown in an incubator.

Stargazer Navalia

(Approach the location)

Qingque: This giant water tank holds... seeds?

Chengjie: It's not a water tank, but a starskiff incubator. It's filled with a culture medium that supports the starskiff seed during the germination phase, and it can ensure the biological material grows in a nutritious and controllable environment.

Qingque: This is the first time I've ever heard about this. (Trailblazer), you got any questions there?

Starskiff seeds?

Chengjie: Yup, as the name suggests, it's a seed that can grow into a starskiff. But it's not a seed that grows into a plant-like structure. It incorporates moldable metals, biological materials, jade abaci, and more.

Chengjie: All of the growth data for a starskiff is stored inside its seed. In other words, these seeds come with their own "design manuscripts," and each seed grows step-by-step based on the design plan.

Chengjie: In the absence of any external stimulus and with sufficient nutrition, a starskiff seed will grow into a keel in one go.

Culture medium?

Chengjie: Generally speaking, the ratio of catalyzers in the culture medium is fixed. However, it can be adjusted based on the design of the ship. Depending on the composition ratio, the strength and growth speed of the hull will vary.

Chengjie: So there are craftsmen from the Artisanship Commission who specialize in researching the ratio needed for the culture medium during the germination phase, so as to make the ship lighter, more durable, and safer.

Chengjie: There are many cylindrical "culture medium injectors" at various phases along the starskiff assembly line to make fine-tuned adjustments to it as it grows.

Germination phase?

Chengjie: There are four main stages in the growth of a starskiff: the germination phase, the embryonic phase, the nutritive phase, and the forming phase. What you're seeing right now is the germination phase.

Chengjie: During this phase, materials such as fallow earth and Ligneous Freeroamers inside the starskiff seed will form the earliest signs of seed germ and embryo.

Chengjie: If anything goes wrong during the growth process, we need to clear out the failed starskiff seed and destroy the biological matter in the metal frame.

...Starskiffs grow out of seeds?

Chengjie: That's what made me most curious, too. Every day I'll be catching one of these starskiffs, without knowing that it's actually been grown from a seed.

Chengjie: You must have heard of the legends of the Ambrosial Arbor, right? That's what brought about a technological revolution on Xianzhou. Especially the Alchemy Commission, they had an utterly miraculous technology...

Chengjie: But after Reignbow severed the Ambrosial Arbor, most of the tech was lost. However, this starskiff growing technology was retained.

Chengjie: Help me take a photo of this incubator. Then we can go check out the embryonic phase.

Take a photo of a starskiff in its germination phase

Step Description

Chengjie requires a visual reference of a starskiff. Take a picture of an incubator in its corresponding phase.
Qingque calls these pictures "visiographs." There are probably more of these familiar-yet-foreign terminology used all over the Xianzhou, you should get used to them.

Stargazer Navalia

(Take a photo of the starskiff): (Trailblazer): Photos have been taken of the starskiff in germination phase.

Locate a Growing Starskiff: Embryonic Phase

Step Description

The cultivation of a starskiff is divided into several phases. Chengjie wanted to see the process between a starskiff seed and a fully cultivated vessel.
You have been to Stargazer Navalia a few times, but you probably haven't noticed that starskiffs are grown in an incubator.

Stargazer Navalia

(Approach the location)

Qingque: It's like I can already see the form of a starskiff taking shape... They really do grow out of seeds into a ship!

Chengjie: Even though I've read about it a thousand times, I still feel a sense of the incredible in the face of such wonder.

Chengjie: The embryonic phase is the most important stage in shaping the starskiff. If you don't regulate the temperature and culture medium properly, or if the design data has any errors, then the starskiff seed will fail to grow as designed.

Qingque: That is to say, during this phase, there's still a possibility of chucking out a failed seed?

Chengjie: That's right. Some fast-growing anomalies can even burst through the incubator, causing the culture medium to leak out. When that happens, the incubator basically just gets trashed.

A trashed incubator?

Chengjie: Despite the confidence in their own designs, even our craftsmen have their failures.

Chengjie: Check out that incubator over there. Its designer must've miscalculated the self-growth algorithm of Fallow Earth... If I want to complete these designs, I need to focus on these growth patterns of starskiffs.

Has any serious accident ever happened before?

Chengjie: I heard Master Gongshu talk about how Stargazer Navalia was attacked by some Elixir Seekers before.

Chengjie: Rumor has it, they got a sample of the Ambrosial Arbor and hoped to use some starskiff culture medium to grow a new Ambrosial Arbor of their own. However, they were actually getting the wool pulled over their eyes! It was actually just a bonsai tree from the Alchemy Commission.

Chengjie: When they dropped their bonsai cutting into the culture medium, it was like detonating a bomb — in a flash, their hideaway had a massive tree burst through the roof, causing the whole building to collapse.

Chengjie: That massive tree spent the next few seconds withering before dying off. And that small twig gained incredible vitality within seconds, and then exhausted all life within a few more seconds. It really was a terrifying phenomenon.

...Looks like this seed is about to be wrapped up.

Chengjie: Mmm, you can't actually see the core part of a starskiff that has taken form. For one thing, the starskiff seeds develop a detailed and complex root system during subsequent phases, which also acts as the internal jade abacus network aboard each starskiff.

Chengjie: For another thing, the toughest biological materials on the exterior will gradually close up, so that the starskiff can continue its core internal operations even when it encounters severe impacts.

Qingque: ...I'm already starting to lose track of everything being said.

Chengjie: Help me take a photo of this incubator. Then we can go check out the nutritive phase.

Take a photo of a starskiff in its embryonic phase

Step Description

Chengjie requires a visual reference of a starskiff. Take a picture of an incubator in its corresponding phase.
Qingque calls these pictures "visiographs." There are probably more of these familiar-yet-foreign terminology used all over the Xianzhou, you should get used to them.

Stargazer Navalia

(Take a photo of the starskiff): Chengjie: Many details aren't visible from this angle. Let's move to shoot from a different angle..

(Take a photo of a different starskiff): Chengjie: This is a great shot. Thank you so much

Locate a Growing Starskiff: Nutritive Phase

Step Description

The cultivation of a starskiff is divided into several phases. Chengjie wanted to see the process between a starskiff seed and a fully cultivated vessel.
You have been to Stargazer Navalia a few times, but you probably haven't noticed that starskiffs are grown in an incubator.

Stargazer Navalia

(Approach the location): Qingque: Oh oh, I think I can see the shape of a starskiff! Is this the nutritive phase?; It looks like it's almost done incubating!; Qingque: Mmm, even though we haven't done a thing, there's still this spontaneous sense of pride.; Qingque: Oh no, if I take pride in any of the work, then I can't just slack off without feeling guilty; Qingque: Don't you think so, Chengjie?; Qingque: ...Chengjie?; Qingque: Darn it, Chengjie's missing!; Chengjie: Help—; Chengjie: I just came here to admire the starskiff's design, then— Help!; Qingque: Oh no, I told him not to run around. Let's go. We gotta save him!
(Enter battle)

(After the battle)

Chengjie: Thank you for saving me. If it weren't for you, I wouldn't be able to fulfill my master's dream...

Qingque: Well, it's starting to seem like you are just using your master's dream as an excuse to wallow in self-pity.

Chengjie: Oh, I'm sorry...

Chengjie: You're right. I've been talking about my master's dream all day. But I'm quickly growing numb to the concept of this word, "dream."

Chengjie: At first, I'd burst into tears whenever I thought of Master Ryan's face, and my heart would skip a beat.

Chengjie: But now, Master Ryan's face is like a blur to me. And my master's dream, it's like a thick old scar on my heart — an itch that I scratch every now and again, so that I'll never forget his memory.

Chengjie: Now I can't even tell if I really do want to fulfill my master's dream, or whether I'm just reminding myself over and over not to forget about him.

Chengjie: I—I'm afraid that one day, I'll think of Master Ryan, and there won't be that stirring in my heart anymore. That'll mean to me that my master has truly left my life, forever. How on earth could I ever hope to repay the time he has spent with me?

Chengjie: I gotta do this when this dream of my master has not completely faded away in my mind. I have to finish it for him.

Chengjie: Oops, ha! I've been talking to myself again... Let's go back to the incubator and all those starskiffs, yeah?

You mentioned starskiff engines before?

Chengjie: There's a circular cutaway on the tail which is where the jade wheel gets installed — that's the starskiff engine I was just talking about. It's an integrated jade abacus that controls gravity and motion.

Chengjie: The Meridian Pin at Stargazer Navalia also operates using similar tech principles.

Chengjie: But lots of illegal modders will exploit this, installing military-grade jade wheels onto civilian starskiffs... And many have paid the price with their lives. After all, it's all illegal and highly dangerous.

Do the incubators grow alongside the starskiffs themselves?

Qingque: I don't think so. This is just a bigger incubator.

Looks like the starskiff is almost ready.

Chengjie: Yeah, help me snap a shot of this incubator here.

Take a photo of a starskiff in its nutritive phase

Step Description

Chengjie requires a visual reference of a starskiff. Take a picture of an incubator in its corresponding phase.
Qingque calls these pictures "visiographs." There are probably more of these familiar-yet-foreign terminology used all over the Xianzhou, you should get used to them.

Stargazer Navalia

(Take a photo of the starskiff): (Trailblazer): Photos have been taken of the starskiff in nutritive phase.

Locate a Growing Starskiff: Forming Phase

Step Description

The cultivation of a starskiff is divided into several phases. Chengjie wanted to see the process between a starskiff seed and a fully cultivated vessel.
You have been to Stargazer Navalia a few times, but you probably haven't noticed that starskiffs are grown in an incubator.

Stargazer Navalia

(Approach the location)

Chengjie: Fully-grown starskiffs are extracted from their incubators and temporarily moored here following assembly.

Chengjie: Before long, they'll sail all over Xianzhou and become a part of the scenery around us.

Qingque: Starskiffs really are a miracle of nature.

Starskiffs really are a miracle of nature.

Qingque: ...Can't you please curate your own thoughts.

One does not simply sail without a starskiff.

Qingque: Yep. And the way they are automatically produced is so awesome! Why does the Divination Commission still need us to work so hard for them?

To boldly sail where no starskiff has sailed before.

Qingque: (Trailblazer), I didn't know you were a poet.

Qingque: (Whispering)...Wait a minute, why does that line of poem (he/she) just said sound so familiar, huh...

Qingque: Any more photos, Chengjie?

Chengjie: Help me snap a pic together with this starskiff. Thank you.

Take a photo of Chengjie with a starskiff

Step Description

After this trip to witness the birth of a starskiff, Chengjie is very inspired. He wants to have his photo taken with a starskiff, and he wants you to be the photographer.
Chengjie is not adept at taking photos, you know that just by looking at him.

Stargazer Navalia

(Take a photo)

Chengjie: I've actually been quite uneasy during the whole of our journey to Stargazer Navalia.

Chengjie: Can I really design starskiffs? Can I really fulfill my master's dream? Or am I just looking for some kind of escape from reality?

You're overthinking this.

Qingque: Yeah, when I first met you, I could feel the heaviness of your burden. Please take it easy.

Chengjie: Thank you, Miss Qingque. I'm not overthinking everything anymore. I just want to go back right away and help complete my master's manuscript.

Are you still uneasy?

Chengjie: No, I'm better now.

Chengjie: I just want to go back right away and help complete my master's manuscript.

This trip doesn't seem to be helpful for a craftsman, though.

Qingque: Ha, you don't sugarcoat things, do you?

Chengjie: You're right. I doubted myself before coming here. Since my knowledge about every step of the starskiff manufacturing process is top-notch, was it really necessary to come here to take a look at things for myself?

Chengjie: But luckily, I'm here. I've got my motivation back, and now all I can think about is completing my master's manuscript as soon as I can.

Chengjie: Despite forgetting my master's appearance and personality, the craftsmanship and words that he passed on to me have long since helped me form my habits and way of thinking.

Chengjie: My master spent so much time and effort on teaching me, on igniting my passions... He gave me all his time, the most precious thing for a short-lived being. So I have to repay him in kind.

Chengjie: From that moment on, I've been constantly wondering, is there anything that can transcend the confines of time?

A masterpiece!

Chengjie: That's what I was thinking, too.

A world-changing idea!

Qingque: Chengjie, have you got any of those world-changing ideas up there?

Chengjie: ...Unfortunately, I don't. And I don't think my master does, either.

The passing down of knowledge?

Qingque: Makes sense. If you take on an apprentice, and then that apprentice takes on their own apprentice... Wouldn't that transcend time?

Chengjie: That's actually a pretty good idea, but I haven't reached the level of being able to take on an apprentice yet.

Nothing.

Qingque: ...You're even more of a pessimist than I am.

Chengjie: My master's manuscript has never been published before. Once finished, I trust it will become a masterpiece that transcends the confines of time.

Chengjie: My master spent so much time and effort on teaching me, on igniting my passions... He gave me all his time, the most precious thing for a short-lived being. So I have to repay him in kind.

Chengjie: I want to prove that the time he's spent was not wasted. That his time spent will flow on through me, and that it will flow on through his surviving works.

Chengjie: Just look: Every day, there are so many starskiffs leaving Stargazer Navalia. One day, I'll build my master's dreamship, push it out gently, and set it sailing in the busiest lane of Starskiff Haven!

Chengjie: When that day comes, I'll be a real graduate! And my master will approve of me, I'm sure.

Go for it, get it done!

Time to walk the walk, then.

Qingque: Well, then, how about you keep an eye on him, (Trailblazer)

Chengjie: Please, (Trailblazer) — please supervise me until I'm done!

I'll be looking for you back at the Commission soon.

As long as it's not too much of a hassle...

Chengjie: I feel like I'm filled with motivation now. Once I get back, I'll go all out. I'm off, then. Thanks again to both of you for all your help!

Qingque: Finally, that's resolved. Thank you so much. I'm exhausted, so I'll go back now too. Talk to you later.

(Mission Completed)

Other Languages

Language	Official Name
English	A Teacher and a Friend
Chinese (Simplified)	亦师亦友
Chinese (Traditional)	亦師亦友
Japanese	師であり、友であり
Korean	스승이자 벗
Spanish	Un maestro y un amigo
French	Professeur et ami
Russian	Учитель и друг
Thai	เป็นทั้งครูและเพื่อน
Vietnamese	Vừa Thầy Vừa Bạn
German	Ein Lehrer und ein Freund
Indonesian	Guru dan Teman
Portuguese	Um Professor e um Amigo

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