Story Background
At the rebuilt Jade Chamber, Ningguang notices that two harbor ledgers list different totals for the same shipment. Tomorrow's allocation must be based on accurate figures, so she has already sent for the original signed cargo manifest. While it is on its way, she wants to find where the two records first begin to differ.
She asks Aether to compare the accounts with her. He has seen her during a demanding day of work, and has also seen her set her affairs aside from time to time. Ningguang values his candor, knowing he will not agree merely to please her.
She lays the two records side by side.
“The original manifest is on its way. Start with the route and the totals, Traveler. Is there anything we should check again?”
The original manifest is still on its way. The remaining comparison will have to wait until it arrives, so Ningguang closes the ledgers and moves them to one side of the tea table.
By the window sit two cups of tea and a chessboard; beyond it, the lights of Liyue Harbor are beginning to glow. With no new papers immediately placed before her, she reaches out and turns the board toward Aether.
“The messenger will be a little while. Stay for tea and another game?”
She picks up a chess piece, but does not hurry to make her move.
“Usually, people come to ask me how they can gain something. Let me ask a different question tonight. What is worth choosing, even when it brings no profit?”
