Reaching an agreement with the Xianzhou was an unexpected outcome for Chen Lin. His primary objective upon arriving at Xianzhou Luofu had been to locate March 7th, Welt, and the Trailblazer, who had all lost contact. Who could have predicted such a fortuitous turn of events—like a blind cat stumbling upon a dead mouse—where he found himself right in the middle of the Xianzhou’s Stellaron crisis, surrounded by external forces circling like vultures.
Due to the Xianzhou’s neutral and independent policies, it typically avoided alliances with other nations, focusing instead on recuperation and interstellar trade. Among the remaining five ships of the Xianzhou Alliance, Luofu occupied a unique role: it specialized in providing economic and logistical support to the other ships, ensuring their activities remained well-funded.
Though operating behind the scenes, often overlooked like a supporting actor in a movie, Luofu’s importance could not be understated. It was, in many ways, the energy source that kept the Alliance functioning.
If the five ships of the Xianzhou Alliance were likened to a complex, high-powered machine, each ship performed a specialized function—sorting, packaging, manufacturing. Yet, without the energy provided by Luofu, none of these processes could continue.
Luofu was that critical energy source.
Even if it ceased supplying the other ships, Luofu could still function independently and maintain significant value on its own.
Chen Lin had already learned much about Luofu’s responsibilities and potential during his conversations with Jing Yuan. He understood their diplomatic stance: they welcomed outsiders with open arms but strictly prohibited them from infringing upon the status of Luofu’s native peoples—the Tianren, the Vidyadhara, and the Foxians.
Outsiders would always remain outsiders, never truly stepping into the inner circle.
Unless, of course, one achieved a level of virtue that could be extolled by generations of Luofu’s natives. Without such accomplishments, any attempt at integration was a lost cause.
One of the agreements Chen Lin privately reached with Jing Yuan involved aiding in the treatment of the Mara Struck. The Xianzhou undoubtedly desired solutions for alleviating the effects of the Mara—no matter how temporary. Chen Lin had assumed responsibility for providing such assistance.
In return, Jing Yuan did not leave Chen Lin’s efforts unrewarded. The general solemnly vowed that if this endeavor opened a new path for treating the Mara Struck, Chen Lin and even his empire would be regarded as saviors among the Xianzhou.
Chen Lin’s technological repertoire included knowledge of biotechnology, classified under the “Biology” branch of his technological tree. He had previously unlocked two key technologies: Genetic Mapping and Vitality Enhancers.
Genetic Mapping increased the population growth rate of a planet by 10%, while Vitality Enhancers had a smaller impact. It had been the least unhelpful choice in a prior decision, extending the lifespan of leaders by 10%—not merely by a single second.
Unfortunately, he had yet to unlock the critical technology he needed for his next step in ascension: Gene Tailoring.
Had he possessed both psionics and genetic ascension, he might have held real confidence in solving the Xianzhou’s current predicament with the Mara Struck.
“Such a pity…”
Shaking his head, Chen Lin grabbed his coat and strolled leisurely downstairs. His rest had been interrupted, and he decided against going back to sleep. Instead, he planned to explore the surrounding area. He wouldn’t wander too far, ensuring he remained reachable if the Divination Commission’s messenger needed him.
The Xianzhou’s advanced technology was pervasive, and Chen Lin saw this as an opportunity to observe their civilian tech development. Perhaps later, he could compile his findings into a book and share it with Clara and Serval back on Jarilo-VI. Who knew—these two budding scientists might derive something remarkable from it.
Thus, Chen Lin became a peculiar sight on the streets. Passersby noticed a strange young man who would stop to observe various objects, jotting down notes and sketches. It was fortunate he avoided restricted areas, or he might have been mistaken for a spy.
He recorded his observations in a notebook, occasionally buying unfamiliar snacks to taste. The environment reminded him of home, filling him with a sense of warmth and nostalgia.
Beep—Beep—
“Hmm?” Chen Lin pulled out his vibrating communicator, finding a message from Qingque, a Divination Commission messenger. Reading it aloud, he muttered, “Urgent matters have come up, and I can’t leave for now. Please wait a little longer.”
The sender seemed unaware that he could understand the Xianzhou language, as the message had been auto-translated via the shared perceptual beacon.
Attached to the message was a photo of a location Chen Lin recognized—a teahouse near the plaza in Aurum Alley. The area was filled with local and foreign eateries, as well as a few souvenir shops that had caught his attention earlier. He had even considered buying some gifts for Bronya and Seele on his way back.
No ulterior motives—just a simple thought of bringing home some Xianzhou specialties for the girls. A gesture of goodwill, nothing more.
Chen Lin also noticed a corner of the image featuring a jade-green ribbon and the hem of a light-colored skirt fluttering in the wind. It seemed the person Qingque mentioned was a young woman.
“Let me see where I am…”
Glancing around, Chen Lin spotted a street-side map. As a hub for interstellar tourism, Luofu had installed these maps at regular intervals to aid visitors.
Scanning the map briefly, Chen Lin memorized the route. “Got it!”
He realized the location wasn’t far—just a few steps away through a shop’s connecting passage. Returning to the inn would take much longer, so he decided to check out the plaza.
If Qingque truly needed help, lending a hand could leave a good impression.
With that thought, Chen Lin followed the route in his mind, taking advantage of interconnected storefronts that saved him time.
In less than ten minutes, he arrived at Aurum Alley Plaza.
Using his psionics to subtly search the area, Chen Lin quickly located the teahouse from the photo.
The teahouse was bustling with activity. Tables and chairs spilled outside, shaded by umbrellas for comfort. Inside, servers bustled about, their faces brimming with enthusiasm as they invited passersby—sweaty and weary—to rest, emphasizing the availability of free seating and drinks without obligation.
A brilliant marketing tactic. By offering free seating and refreshments, they drew in tired travelers, creating a psychological nudge for gratitude-driven spending.
Even if I’ve freeloaded many times, maybe I should buy a cup of tea this time.
Scanning the tea prices, Chen Lin calculated that even if only one in a hundred visitors made a purchase, the teahouse would still profit.
“This owner knows their business.”
As Chen Lin casually strolled past the teahouse, several young women in server uniforms suddenly lit up. Spotting him, they eagerly rushed forward to invite him in.
“Handsome guy, why don’t you come into our shop and take a break from the heat? Don’t worry—seats are free, and all beverages are complimentary unless you specifically order tea!”
“Our shop is equipped with the latest cooling jade system. In this stifling weather, it’s incredibly comfortable inside!”
The young servers were following their customer engagement scripts, keenly aware that any guest they brought in—regardless of whether they made a purchase—would contribute to their performance metrics. And this handsome man they stumbled upon? He had a refined air, finely chiseled features, and a face that aligned perfectly with Xianzhou’s aesthetic ideals.
Chen Lin’s outfit added to his appeal. It was custom-made back in Belobog by someone Bronya had commissioned, as he had never been accustomed to Belobog’s layered and intricate attire, having grown up wearing modern clothing. His clothes, designed by himself, consisted of a beige wide-sleeved jacket over a white low-collar shirt. The ensemble accentuated his tall and slender frame, with his delicate collarbone partially visible, exuding an effortless elegance. His every gesture carried a natural grace that became even more apparent when he smiled.
For the servers, bringing him into the shop and seating him by a window would turn him into a walking advertisement. Guests? No problem. He’d draw them in like bees to honey.
Unaware of their scheming, Chen Lin found himself unable to refuse their overly enthusiastic invitations. Well, I’ll just sit inside and send a message to that Divination Commission messenger to meet me here instead of the inn, he thought.
Half-pushed, half-pulled, Chen Lin was seated at an outdoor table. A Foxian girl, who had led him to his seat, swiftly brought him a drink and a pot of tea.
“This is from the owner,” she said, placing the items down with a smile. “He asked me to tell you that as long as you sit here, you’ll never have to pay for tea in the future.”
“…?”
So I’m the shop’s poster boy now?
Chen Lin couldn’t deny the tea house’s savvy approach. The owner clearly knew how to run a business.
Though he always thought of himself as a solid 85 out of 100 in terms of looks, the transformation brought by his ascension had refined his demeanor and appearance to a near-flawless level. Scoring a 98 wouldn’t even feel like bragging.
One of his ascension traits, Charisma Overload MAX, made him universally appealing to almost any lifeform. Just a single glance could leave an excellent first impression, not to mention other qualities that enhanced his charm. That included the trait Exceedingly Delicious, which occasionally left him subjected to the Trailblazer’s playful bites.
In summary, it felt great to freeload.
“Got it. Please thank your boss for me,” Chen Lin replied with a gentle smile.
Thump-thump!
Thump-thump!
Thump-thump!
The Foxian girl’s face turned a bright shade of red as her heart raced uncontrollably. Stammering softly, she muttered, “It’s—it’s us who should be thanking you…” before hastily running off after pouring his tea.
Having Chen Lin sitting outside instantly boosted foot traffic. Servers began pointing him out to potential customers, especially female ones, who made a beeline for the tea house without hesitation.
Chen Lin skillfully declined several attempts at conversation as he sipped his tea, observing the bustling surroundings.
Most patrons weren’t here to enjoy tea but to take a break and quench their thirst. Occasionally, mature-looking individuals emerged from the upper floors, likely having concluded business negotiations. Groups of friends also gathered over light snacks to chat.
However, Chen Lin noticed something else unusual—groups of people engaged in a certain activity around specific tables.
On the table’s surface were thick, square tiles stacked in neat piles.
Wait a minute… Is that mahjong?!
The sight nearly made Chen Lin choke on his tea. Mahjong—his homeland’s beloved pastime—had apparently made its way to the Xianzhou. Its earliest origins, known as “bo game,” could be traced back thousands of years, with the modern version emerging during the Tang Dynasty.
Growing up, Chen Lin had often seen relatives play during family visits to Sichuan, his mother’s hometown. Naturally, he had learned the game too. During university, he had even participated in online mahjong competitions, excelling in a popular game called Mahsoul, which followed Riichi rules. He’d won third place in an amateur tournament, earning in-game rewards and even a gilded trophy.
But how on earth does Xianzhou have this game?
Nearby, three young women in light summer attire were playing mahjong at the next table. Noticing Chen Lin’s curious gaze, they enthusiastically explained the game.
Known locally as Imperial Jade Tiles, it had become a wildly popular pastime across the Xianzhou in recent years. Families and friends alike carried sets with them, using the game to pass time.
The rules were strikingly similar to Sichuan-style and Riichi mahjong, with only a few minor differences. After observing a few rounds, Chen Lin quickly grasped the nuances. The women were more than happy to explain the various hand combinations.
The more I see of Xianzhou, the more it feels like my home planet… Could there really be some kind of shared lineage?
Time passed quickly as Chen Lin watched. Figuring the messenger, Qingque, must be done by now, he reached for his phone to send her his location.
But just as he was about to type, a cheerful, youthful voice rang out nearby.
“Kan! Rinshan! Tsumo, Pure One Suit! Gotcha~!”
“Huh?! Qingque, you’re winning again? This is like the tenth round!”
Qingque?!
Startled, Chen Lin put down his phone and turned toward the voice.
—
T/N: ngl when he was describing his outfit i was like this guy is lelouch, specially with how ‘slender’ or ‘ thin-framed’ he is
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!
Reader discussion
0 Comments
Be the first reader to share a thought about this chapter.