Chapter 86

After Takumi understood the structure of the Staff of Homa, he directly activated his abilities and began to manifest it.

After a while, an identical Staff of Homa appeared in Takumi's hands.

Seeing the staff that Takumi had manifested, Hu Tao was stunned.

"You really did it. Let me see!"

After saying that, Hu Tao grabbed the copied Staff of Homa from Takumi's hand. She examined it carefully, feeling its weight and texture.

The next moment, Hu Tao activated the power of her Vision. A red energy instantly enveloped her body and infused into the staff.

"Tsk tsk tsk, your ability is amazing," she remarked. "It's exactly the same."

Whether it was the feel or the function, everything was identical. Takumi's ability to replicate items was truly impressive.

Hu Tao played with it for a while before returning it to Takumi, retrieving her original staff.

"I'll tell you this," she said. "It's fine if you copy one, but don't go making more. I don't want to see my weapon all over the streets."

She gave Takumi a stern warning. The thought of her weapon being mass-produced would make her lose her mind.

Takumi nodded. "Of course, I'll use this weapon myself. I won't copy it everywhere. You can rest assured."

Seeing that Takumi understood, Hu Tao nodded in satisfaction.

"Alright then, I'm heading off. I'll find you when I'm done with my work. Goodbye."

After saying that, Hu Tao turned and left.

Takumi looked at the Staff of Homa in his hand and nodded with satisfaction. He stored it in his Vision before resuming work with Klee.

Every now and then, an explosion echoed across the mountains as the road construction continued. The workers busily removed the blasted rocks, while bystanders watched in amazement.

Especially at the sight of Shenhe effortlessly lifting boulders with her bare hands. It was an eye-opening spectacle for many.

At the same time, some children from Qingce Village ran over upon hearing the explosions. When they learned that a road was being built, they were astonished.

News of the construction had spread throughout Qingce Village, but no one expected it to progress so quickly.

Takumi also observed how dire the situation was in Qingce Village—mostly children and elderly people. It made him wonder: did these children not attend school?

Liyue's education system seemed problematic. In Sumeru, there were established ordinances for learning. In Mondstadt, the Church of Favonius and the Knights provided some education, along with the library. Most people there relied on self-learning or tutoring.

However, in Liyue, education was mainly passed down through family traditions, much like ancient times. Those interested in law studied under Yanfei. Alchemy was learned from Albedo. Knowledge was tied to different factions and sects rather than a formal education system.

Takumi realized this issue needed attention. It was unfortunate that so many children were missing out on education. He silently made a note to discuss it with Ningguang once he returned to Liyue Harbor.

Children's education had to start early.

Although private schools existed, most children never attended. Learning was optional, and those who didn't study were simply taught basic survival skills at home before heading off to work.

Takumi knew that proper schooling was essential for Liyue's future. Technology and knowledge couldn't rely solely on alchemists. No matter the field, talent needed to be nurtured from a young age.

After nearly half a month of hard work, Takumi and Klee finally completed clearing the road to Shimen.

Seeing the fully opened road, Takumi couldn't help but smile in satisfaction.

"Alright," he said. "Next, we just need to set up a station nearby."

"There's also a huge need for a parking area," he added. "That fork in the road leading to Qingce Village would be perfect. We can build a large parking lot and a post station there."

Klee was also delighted. She had enjoyed herself thoroughly throughout the project—blasting rocks nonstop.

"Everything can explode! So fun!" she cheered.

Now that the road was clear, she could even see the direction of Mondstadt.

Once the road officially opened, the journey to Mondstadt would be much quicker. Even if Klee wanted to return home, she could visit Takumi anytime.

"Let's go!" Takumi said. "We're heading back."

Seeing that their task was complete, Takumi gathered Klee and Shenhe to return home.

Klee nodded. "Okay, Brother Takumi!"

The three of them began their journey back.

Inside the car, Klee suddenly asked, "Brother Takumi, now that we're done, does that mean I have to go back to Mondstadt?"

Takumi noticed her hesitant expression and raised an eyebrow. "Don't you want to go back?"

Klee nodded. "Brother Takumi is more fun! I want to stay here longer!"

Takumi chuckled. "In that case, it's fine. If you want to stay, just tell Captain Jean. Write her a letter so she won't worry."

"Besides, Albedo and Sucrose are here now. You don't have to worry about being sent back right away."

Klee beamed excitedly. "Yay! Then I'll write to Captain Jean!"

With that settled, Klee happily decided to stay longer.

Takumi, Klee, and Shenhe continued chatting as they drove back.

After about an hour of driving, Takumi suddenly slowed down.

In front of them, he spotted an unexpected figure standing on the road.