Chapter 56

Teyvat is not known for night shifts.

Unless it's a restaurant or something similar, most people do not work late into the night. However, now that lights had been installed, workers could move bricks even after dark.

After finishing the installation of the lights, Takumi and Keqing returned to Wangshu Inn for dinner.

Just as they were about to finish their meal, Verr Goldet, the owner of Wangshu Inn, suddenly arrived at their table.

"Mr. Takumi, can you install some of your light bulbs at Wangshu Inn?" she asked. "I want to replace all the lights here with electric ones."

Takumi was momentarily stunned by her request but quickly considered the idea and nodded in agreement.

"No problem," he replied. "Tomorrow, I'll have someone come over and install them for you."

"But the external wiring hasn't been connected yet," he added after a moment's thought. "For now, you'll need a generator, or I can provide some electric slimes."

"You'll just need to set up a proper area to house them in cages and feed them daily. That should be enough to sustain the power supply."

Verr Goldet's eyes lit up with excitement. "That's fine! Tomorrow, I'll have an area cleaned up to breed the slimes. You can count on me."

Takumi nodded before offering another suggestion. "The elevator in Wangshu Inn is also a bit old. While we're making upgrades, why don't I help modernize it?"

"With a few modifications, we could use the large waterwheel outside to generate electricity as well."

"We can even use Wangshu Inn as a test site for introducing various alchemical technologies."

Takumi suddenly had an idea—to turn Wangshu Inn into a model location for alchemical advancements.

As an establishment frequented by adventurers from all over, the inn would be an ideal place to showcase new technology. Visitors would experience these advancements firsthand and spread the word, making future adoption easier.

At the same time, it would allow them to test the reliability of these innovations before wider implementation.

"What do you think, Boss?" Takumi asked. "I'd like to experiment with these new technologies here. That includes installing the lights, upgrading the elevator, and more."

Verr Goldet thought for a moment before agreeing. "No problem. I'd be benefiting from it as well. If you need anything, just let me know."

After finalizing their agreement, she took her leave, giving Takumi full authority to carry out the renovations.

There was no harm in upgrading Wangshu Inn. In fact, it would bring plenty of benefits.

The next morning, Takumi called in his team of alchemist-electricians to begin the renovations.

The first step was to install electrical wiring throughout every room.

The electricians were already well-versed in the process, having handled similar installations in newly built shops.

Meanwhile, Takumi gathered a group of masons to assist in constructing a slime power plant in the designated area Verr Goldet had prepared.

Laying the foundation was simple—proper insulation was installed, followed by a sturdy cement structure.

An excavator was brought in to expedite the process.

Tourists at Wangshu Inn were surprised to see the construction work underway.

Was the inn undergoing a major renovation?

While some were curious, most were unbothered, as their stay at the inn remained unaffected.

Currently, Wangshu Inn only provided meals, as all accommodations had been booked by Takumi.

Wiring installation proceeded smoothly.

After laying the cables, electricians covered them with special pipes that blended seamlessly with the building's decor.

Even the electrical switches matched the color scheme of the rooms.

The original light fixtures used special ore lamps, but their brightness was dim, making them less effective than traditional fuel lamps.

Electric bulbs were installed in their place, with additional lights placed around the rooms to enhance illumination.

By nightfall, the new lighting system made the entire inn as bright as day.

Meanwhile, back in Liyue Harbor, some residents began visiting the examination hall to take their driver's license tests.

The first step was a written exam.

The new traffic laws had been issued a few days prior.

Some individuals with good memory had already memorized the rules after reading them once and were eager to take the test.

Among the first examinees was none other than Hu Tao.

Hu Tao hadn't forgotten that Takumi had promised her a car once she passed her driver's test.

She was determined to claim her prize.

Not only did Hu Tao participate, but many members of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor joined as well.

According to Hu Tao, having a hearse for funeral processions would be a major advantage.

Thus, when the traffic laws were announced, she led her employees in studying them seriously.

Even Zhongli was among the test-takers!

Zhongli had been personally dragged to the examination hall by Hu Tao.

Her reasoning was simple—having a car was useless if he didn't have a license.

"Driving without a license is a crime! You'll be arrested if you get caught!" she had said.

"Even if you know how to drive, you still need an official permit, right?"

With that, Zhongli had no choice but to comply.

As chief examiner, Yanfei couldn't help but stare at Zhongli with a twitching expression.

"Lord Zhongli, why are you here?"

If Zhongli had simply asked, she could have just given him a license!

However, Zhongli gave her a subtle look, signaling her not to reveal his identity.

Understanding his intent, Yanfei refrained from speaking further.

It seemed that the former Geo Archon was truly enjoying his retirement.

Then again, why wouldn't he?

Drinking tea, taking leisurely strolls, shopping—his daily expenses were even covered by others.

Life couldn't be more comfortable.