“Be careful, esteemed benefactor. The ship has not docked securely yet; it’s not safe to get up,” Tingyun gently reminded from her position at the controls of the Star Skiff. “I don’t mean to doubt your abilities, but if you were to strain your back, I’d have a hard time explaining it to the First Mate.”
The harbor at Star Skiff Haven was shrouded in clouds, giving an impression of infinite heights. In reality, the Xianzhou Luofu had long since implemented safety measures to ensure no one accidentally fell from its docks or railings.
Invisible under normal circumstances, these mechanisms were lifesaving during emergencies. Even if someone were to fall, they’d only suffer minor injuries. A network of safety measures would break their fall, and rescue teams from the Cloud Knights were stationed around the clock for swift intervention, ensuring the safety of citizens and visitors alike.
Tingyun had mentioned all of this on their journey.
As a native of Luofu and an employee of the Sky-Faring Commission, Tingyun was well-versed in such details. Her explanations were thorough, even down to the origins of the measures, showcasing her expertise as a professional ferryperson.
“Thank you for the warning, Miss Tingyun,” Chen Lin said, his gaze fixed on the ethereal scenery. “It’s just that the beauty of this place—these towering, cloud-piercing pavilions and jade-carved railings—is so overwhelming that I could hardly contain my excitement. Truly, it feels as though the heavens themselves are within reach!”
Hearing his poetic praise, some of the more cultured Cloud Knights paused mid-step, while Tingyun looked at him in astonishment, her emerald eyes filled with admiration.
“Esteemed benefactor, your eloquence is unparalleled! To use the unique poetic lexicon of the Xianzhou so masterfully—your talent puts me to shame. Such brilliance is truly admirable.”
“Oh, it was just something I said offhand…” Chen Lin chuckled. This poem isn’t even mine—I’m just an interstellar deliveryman, moving ideas from one place to another.
“Such casual words carrying such meaning—there’s no need to be modest,” Tingyun laughed softly. “The ship has docked. Everyone, please disembark in an orderly fashion.”
Turning back to Chen Lin, she added, “The perspective beneath the Star Skiff can be quite disorienting for first-time visitors. If you don’t mind, you can accompany me as we go ashore.”
On their way here, Tingyun had noticed Chen Lin frequently glancing toward the sea of clouds beneath the skiff. Assuming it was his first visit to Luofu and fearing he might not be accustomed to the heights, she tactfully offered her assistance to spare him potential embarrassment.
“With such a gracious invitation, how could I refuse?” Chen Lin replied, impressed by Tingyun’s attentiveness. This young fox-eared girl is far sharper than her youthful appearance suggests. Even back in my world, few people with years of experience could match her keen observation.
As for a fear of heights…
In the past, perhaps he might have been weak in the knees. But now, having survived falls from cliffs and multi-story buildings without a scratch, even leaving craters in the ground, Chen Lin no longer felt the same visceral fear.
Still, since Tingyun had gone out of her way to offer, it would be rude to decline her kindness.
“Miss Tingyun, we’ll report back to the Divine Strategies Headquarters to rejoin our unit and hand over our colleagues who succumbed to the demonic yin influence to the Alchemy Commission. Also, we are deeply grateful for this benefactor’s assistance—this is a debt we won’t forget!”
A few Cloud Knights saluted, their gratitude sincere despite their fatigue. Following protocol, they had to report the day’s events, especially after such a tumultuous assignment.
“Safe travels, gentlemen. This humble ferryperson won’t hold you up,” Tingyun waved, the sunlight glinting off the jade bangle on her wrist.
Once the skiff’s controls were shut down, she approached Chen Lin, steadying him gently. “A small leap forward will bring you ashore. Allow me to demonstrate the proper form…”
“No need for all that trouble.” Chen Lin snapped his fingers, and an invisible surge of psionic energy lifted them both into the air, gliding smoothly to the port’s edge.
Though he was curious about what it would feel like to fall, Chen Lin decided against indulging in such whims so soon after arriving on the Xianzhou. First impressions mattered, after all.
Tingyun was startled. While she had seen Chen Lin manipulate spatial physics before, she hadn’t expected this display of mastery.
“Such remarkable abilities! To walk on air like this is truly a rare skill. Meeting you is an eye-opening experience, esteemed benefactor,” Tingyun exclaimed, quickly regaining her composure. With a shift in demeanor, she extended her arm in a grand gesture toward the vast cityscape.
“Allow me, on behalf of the Sky-Faring Commission, to welcome you to Star Skiff Haven.”
On their journey, Tingyun had explained that all matters of navigation and trade on the Xianzhou Luofu fell under the jurisdiction of the Sky-Faring Commission, one of the six major commissions of the Xianzhou.
The Star Skiff Haven was under their governance, and as a ferryperson, Tingyun’s responsibilities included guiding merchants and travelers. She also occasionally joined the multi-commission Task Force for airspace security. Her breadth of experience made her an excellent guide.
“My abilities are just parlor tricks from back home—anyone with a bit of training could manage them.”
“You’re too modest, esteemed benefactor. Alas, I’m but a humble servant without the rank to discuss grand matters with you. For now, all I can do is guide you along these minor affairs. I hope you won’t take offense.”
As Tingyun led him, Chen Lin encountered more of the Xianzhou’s denizens.
Most Xianzhou residents were tall, with elongated features, narrow noses, and wide-set eyes. The fox-folk, another native group, stood out with their more angular features and long, furry ears—traits that made them easily distinguishable even without their animalistic attributes.
Tingyun was an exemplar of her kind, her elegant demeanor and occasional flirtatious gestures exuding a charm that even Chen Lin found disarming. No wonder King Zhou fell for such temptations—who could resist this?
“Since the Luofu sealed itself off, the flow of tourists and merchants has dwindled significantly. This major event has made my work much quieter. When we received Lord Yukong’s order to inspect the trade ports, I couldn’t resist getting back into action,” Tingyun said as they walked.
“Thankfully, with your assistance, we avoided significant danger.”
“I have little to offer in return, but when I report to Lord Yukong, I’ll be sure to mention how much we owe to your generosity.”
As they passed various landmarks, Tingyun continued her commentary, pointing out the logistics hub operated by Crane Logistics, where letters and parcels were sorted and delivered using specialized mechanical birds.
She also mentioned the renowned Xuanye Avenue, famed for its endless shops and glowing lanterns, where visitors could find everything from pawnshops to snack stalls.
“If you have the time, you should visit a teahouse there. They serve something called Immortal Bliss Tea. It’s said that everyone who drinks it leaves with a mysterious smile. I’ve had it a few times myself—the taste is sweet and refreshing, a perfect blend of milk and tea.”
Chen Lin chuckled. The name of the tea gave him pause. Immortal Bliss Tea? Sounds like the Xianzhou’s version of Coke.
“Such a unique experience—I must try it for myself,” Chen Lin replied. “Let’s see if it’s as magical as you say.”
“It’s worth a visit! Just don’t overdo it—it can be fattening.”
“Can I get it iced?”
“Of course,” Tingyun replied with a slight smile.
“Does the ingredients list mention the calorie count?” Chen Lin asked, raising an eyebrow.
“That’s not something we track…” Tingyun blinked, puzzled as to why he’d ask such a question.
Chen Lin swished his sleeve with a dramatic flair, declaring with righteous confidence, “If it’s iced, the calories are reduced. If they’re not listed, then it’s zero calories!”
“Pfft…” Tingyun couldn’t help but laugh. While she didn’t understand what ‘zero calories’ meant, it was easy to guess it had something to do with energy calculations from his world. His lighthearted explanation left her in stitches. “Esteemed benefactor, you’re so amusing! If I spent an entire day with you, I’d probably end up laughing myself awake at night just thinking about your jokes!”
Tingyun continued, her voice tinged with playful admiration. “You’re not just witty but also talented, charming, and dependable. Such a perfect individual is bound to be very popular on the Xianzhou! Be careful, or some scheming woman might try to steal you away.”
“That’s only because they don’t truly know me,” Chen Lin replied, shaking his head.
“Oh?” Tingyun tilted her head.
“Once they do, they’d cling to me for dear life.”
“Gahaha~” Tingyun chuckled again. She’d thought he might have a self-deprecating twist, but no, it was pure self-praise. Despite trying to maintain a composed expression, her restraint cracked. “Honestly, you’ve completely thrown me off my game!”
Chen Lin raised an eyebrow with mock seriousness. “Thrown off your game? Nonsense—this is just finding joy in your work.”
“Alright, alright,” Tingyun said, gesturing ahead. “Esteemed benefactor, please take a look.”
They had unknowingly arrived before an imposing palace. Symmetrically aligned along a central axis and facing south, its grandeur exuded a sense of authority. The red-painted doors were flanked by stone lions, one male and one female, while two Cloud Knights stood on either side of the entrance, armed and vigilant. Blue banners bearing the emblem of the Sky-Faring Commission hung behind them, a clear indication of the building’s purpose.
It was majestic without being oppressive.
“We’re standing on the Divination Terrace, and this is the Palace of Timeliness—the headquarters of the Sky-Faring Commission, where Lord Yukong conducts official business.”
“Then I must trouble you, Miss Tingyun, to inform her of my presence. I’ll wait here,” Chen Lin said preemptively.
While he hadn’t inquired much about the commission’s hierarchy, he could tell that Tingyun’s position wasn’t particularly high. Given his own ambiguous identity and the potential for suspicion, he knew to tread carefully.
He wasn’t like March 7th and the others—being wanted like in Belobog was an experience he’d rather avoid. In the Luofu, the largest of the Xianzhou Alliance’s ships, both technology and military strength far surpassed Belobog’s. It was best not to offend anyone.
Besides, he admired the Luofu’s construction and thriving trade. If given the chance, conducting some interstellar commerce here could be lucrative. After all, the mineral resources of Jarilo-VI were practically endless with him around.
The value of minerals came not just from their utility but from their scarcity. With negligible mining costs, his profits would essentially be pure gains.
After all, he still owed that little rich lady a fortune!
“Esteemed benefactor, you’re truly considerate of my position,” Tingyun said with a small bow. “Please wait here for a moment.”
She stepped through the palace doors, leaving Chen Lin to take in the stunning architecture of the Star Skiff Haven. This place is so ethereal… I should build a floating city like this on Jarilo-VI someday. But not just any city—it’ll be even better!
As he admired the layout and marveled at the urban planning, Tingyun returned from within the Palace of Timeliness.
“Thank you for waiting, esteemed benefactor. I’ve reported your circumstances and everything I witnessed to Lord Yukong. Please, follow me inside.”
“Thank you for going to such trouble,” Chen Lin said with a polite nod.
“It’s my duty,” Tingyun replied, shaking her head with a smile. “Besides, I trust you’re no villain plotting against the Xianzhou. This is the least I can do.”
She made an inviting gesture, saying, “This way, esteemed benefactor.”
After a brief inspection by the Cloud Knight guards to ensure he carried no prohibited items, Chen Lin was allowed to enter.
The interior surprised him.
The floor was lined with green carpets, and at the center of the hall were intricate devices surrounded by bustling staff at their workstations. Scattered among the workspaces were holographic projections of plants, glowing in shades of blue.
Noticing his curious gaze, Tingyun explained, “These are the Palace of Timeliness’ potted plants. They adapt their structure in response to environmental changes. The Divination Commission often sends diviners to tend to them.”
“Tend to them?”
“Yes, trimming includes pruning their… code.”
“Cyber plants, huh…”
Chen Lin resisted the urge to slap a sweat emoji onto his forehead. This is a bit abstract. Who uses holograms as potted plants?
As he internally criticized the Xianzhou’s obsession with all things cyber, a mature fox-woman descended the central staircase, her presence commanding attention.
“A guest from the Astral Empire and the Astral Express. Greetings. Tingyun has informed me of everything,” she said with a graceful nod. “I don’t usually meet visitors, but I’ve heard you personally saved two soldiers fully corrupted by the mara. Moreover… you’re the Imperial Governor of the Interstellar Rift Empire, the most discussed figure in the galaxy as of late. I simply had to meet you.”
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This is a fan translation of 在星穹铁道点群星科技树真的没问题吗? by 杏雨诗韵 All rights to the original work belong to the creator. Please support them by exploring their original work or sharing it with others if you can. Thank you for reading and supporting my efforts to bring this story to a wider audience!
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