Albedo quickly recorded various data on his sketchpad as the purification process unfolded.
Nearby, the medical staff whispered among themselves in hushed excitement, saying things like, "An incredible power," and, "We have to keep someone like this in the Knights of Favonius."
It was obvious that Aether's ability had caught their attention, though their professional ethics and high moral standards kept their ambitions in check.
After all, this person wasn't just a random traveler—he was a member of the strike team and had been personally recruited by Albedo, the highly respected Captain of the Investigation Team.
Even without these credentials, Aether's contributions to healing the injured knights alone were enough for the medical staff to treat him with respect and courtesy.
Still, they couldn't help but wish for someone like him to join their ranks.
Several idle medics nudged and kicked each other in jest until they "elected" one unlucky representative to approach Albedo. Of course, "elected" might be a stretch—it was more a case of everyone shoving their leader into the spotlight.
As the team leader of the medical unit, the chosen representative reluctantly stepped forward, under the hopeful gazes of his colleagues, and spoke up.
"Uh... Captain Albedo, I have a small request."
"Hm? What is it?"
Phew—
The leader let out a long breath. He had nearly blurted out the overly formal phrase "I have a favor to ask," which sounded like something straight out of a Liyue storybook.
Talking to the Captain of the Investigation Team was, unsurprisingly, nerve-wracking. Albedo's ever-serious demeanor was enough to keep anyone alert.
"Well... this traveler's abilities are incredibly useful. Every year, we use up a significant amount of medical resources after battling monsters."
The leader chose his words carefully. "If we could convince him to join our medical team, it would be a huge benefit to both the Knights' finances and the people of Mondstadt."
Albedo stared at him for a few seconds before suddenly offering a small smile.
"You don't need to use such formal, report-like language when speaking to me," he said calmly.
Barbatos above, did he just smile?
The leader, his team, and even the conscious knights all froze in astonishment. Everyone knew Albedo for his stoic, emotionless demeanor. Seeing him smile was like witnessing history in the making.
Had they... won? Even this high-ranking figure was smiling.
Albedo quickly returned to his usual neutral expression. "That said, while I did call him here to help, he's technically an independent individual. I have no authority to arrange other duties for him."
Indeed, the only people with the authority—or the audacity—to make arrangements for someone like the traveler would probably be Gu Sanqiu or the Anemo Archon himself.
But if this logic held, perhaps other gods or secret organizations, aware of certain truths, also had plans or ideas for this mysterious traveler?
If that's the case, his identity truly is extraordinary, Albedo mused.
"I agree with you, though," Albedo added thoughtfully. "Someone like him would definitely be worth deepening our connection with."
The leader's eyes lit up. "Exactly! Even if he doesn't officially join the Knights, having someone with his abilities as an ally is invaluable."
"Yes, strengthening that connection would be ideal."
Albedo pondered for a moment before continuing. "Considering the traveler's contributions—his involvement in our ambushes and his efforts in healing the Knights—I believe we could propose awarding him the title of 'Honorary Knight.'"
The leader clapped his hands enthusiastically. "Of course! That's the perfect title for him! How could I have overlooked that?"
Albedo nodded. "Additionally, since the traveler came to Mondstadt searching for his lost family, we could assist him by posting a permanent missing-person notice under the Knights' name."
Most postings on the city's bulletin board were temporary and regularly updated, serving as announcements of policies or local events.
However, they could designate a permanent space for such notices, or even create a separate board dedicated entirely to missing-person cases. It would fill a gap in Mondstadt's existing infrastructure.
As for Paimon, Albedo had a simpler solution. A chest full of gold and silver treasures should win her favor.
While it wouldn't make the little companion betray her partner, it would undoubtedly bring her closer to Mondstadt.
It's just a chest of treasures, Albedo thought. I wouldn't even need the Knights' funding. I could grab a bag from my personal stash—it'd be more than enough.
"But, Captain Albedo, there's one issue," the leader said hesitantly.
"Hmm?"
"Well, your friend—Sir Gu Sanqiu—contributed just as much, if not more, to this effort. If we're granting the traveler an honorary title, we can't overlook him either."
"However, awarding two Honorary Knight titles at once might be... a bit much for the Knights to approve."
Albedo gave the leader a curious look. He must misunderstand Sanqiu's relationship with the Knights, Albedo thought. But it was understandable, considering the two hadn't interacted much publicly.
In reality, Sanqiu was well-acquainted with the higher-ups in the Knights of Favonius. Whenever he visited Mondstadt, it usually ended in feasting and merrymaking with them. There was no way they'd oppose awarding him the title.
Even without personal bias, granting Sanqiu an honorary title would pass unanimously—it wouldn't even require much discussion.
Albedo suspected that the East Wind Guardian's recent reappearance was also related to Sanqiu, though it wasn't something he could openly confirm.
Adopting a serious tone, Albedo asked, "Do you agree that both of them have made significant contributions to Mondstadt?"
The leader nodded blankly.
Sanqiu's importance didn't need explanation. Meanwhile, the traveler's purification ability had saved numerous knights from long-term debilitation or early retirement.
"Then that settles it," Albedo said. "If they've both done so much for Mondstadt, we simply need to submit the proposal to the Knights for approval."
"If we let rigid traditions stop us from properly honoring those who've helped us, wouldn't that betray the spirit of freedom?"
"Rules are static; people are dynamic."
Albedo's tone grew thoughtful. "For those who've shown goodwill and provided tangible aid to Mondstadt, we can and should demonstrate the freedom we cherish.
"This isn't just about repaying them—it's an opportunity to show the world what Mondstadt stands for. In the City of Freedom, kindness is rewarded, and the Wind God's people never mistreat their friends. It's a chance to elevate Mondstadt's reputation."
"We'll leave the final decision to the Knights, of course. But I trust that as Barbatos' people, they'll choose what's best for Mondstadt."
The leader's face lit up in understanding. "Ah, I see now! That makes perfect sense!"
Suddenly, the medical team leader regarded Albedo with newfound admiration.
No wonder this young man excels in alchemy, commands respect, and leads the Investigation Team of the Knights.
Such vision, such wisdom... Compared to him, we mortals are nothing.
I am in awe.