Chapter 145

Takumi was stunned when he heard Xiangling say this.

After thinking about it, he didn't refuse.

"That's fine. But there's a dragon disaster over there now, so there may be some trouble. Right now, pork from that area can't be exported. If you go there, it'll likely be in high demand."

Qingce Village was famous for its pork, but currently, it was nearly impossible to buy any in Liyue due to the ongoing crisis. Perhaps that was why Xiangling wanted to go.

Hearing this, Xiangling nodded eagerly.

"Uh-huh! I'll try to get a good price and hopefully establish a long-term partnership with the suppliers there. Hee hee~~!"

She was looking forward to sourcing fresh ingredients.

Takumi couldn't help but smile at her enthusiasm.

"That should work. It just so happens that Klee knows the daughter of Qingce Village's mayor. When the time comes, I'll have Klee introduce you to her. She might be able to help."

Hearing this, Xiangling's eyes lit up with excitement.

"That sounds great!"

The two soon finalized their plans for the trip.

In the morning, Xiangling would meet Takumi in Mingyun Village, and they would depart together.

This time, instead of riding their motorcycles, they decided to take an off-road vehicle. Since they might need to bring Klee and others back, traveling by motorcycle wouldn't be practical.

After settling their plans, Xiangling quickly finished her meal and went downstairs to make arrangements for her restaurant. Since she'd be leaving, she had to ensure that the staff could manage the store in her absence.

Meanwhile, Takumi left after eating and rode back to his manor.

When he arrived home, Keqing and Shenhe were already there.

Seeing them, Takumi informed them of his plans to visit Mondstadt.

Neither had any objections, as they had anticipated this.

"I'll leave Guili Plains to you. The sales of tape recorders and mobile phones are in your hands. Keep an eye on the shipyard as well. If anything happens, call me directly. Since we installed signal towers in the snowy mountains, there should be some coverage in Mondstadt. I'll also place some signaling devices around Mondstadt to improve communication."

Hearing Takumi's words, both nodded.

"Alright! Don't worry about it," Keqing responded seriously.

Shenhe seemed a bit reluctant but remained silent and nodded in agreement, signaling for Takumi not to worry.

Seeing their determination, Takumi nodded.

"That's fine. If things really get difficult, you can ask Zhongli for help. If you show him the ship designs, he should understand them."

As he said this, Takumi shot Keqing a knowing look.

Keqing immediately understood his meaning.

Got it! If things get tough, just pull Zhongli in as backup? Understood!

She wouldn't hesitate.

Even though she had learned that Zhongli was the former Geo Archon, seeing him spend his days eating, drinking, and relaxing had significantly diminished her once-reverent awe of him.

However, she still respected him, though she wouldn't hesitate to use his expertise when needed.

After finalizing everything, Takumi washed up and went to rest.

The next morning, as Keqing and Shenhe prepared to leave for work, Xiangling arrived at the manor.

"Good morning, Keqing and Shenhe! Is Takumi awake yet?"

After parking her car, Xiangling asked cheerfully.

Hearing her, Keqing was momentarily stunned.

"Are you going to Mondstadt with Takumi?"

Xiangling quickly nodded. "Yep! I'm heading there to find new ingredients. Since Takumi's going to Mondstadt, I'll go with him. Oh, and I brought you breakfast! Please enjoy!"

With that, Xiangling took out the breakfast from her trunk and handed it to them—steamed buns.

Keqing and Shenhe didn't hesitate to accept the food and started eating immediately.

"So Takumi is taking you along? That's fine. Be careful on your way. He's up now, so I'll head to work. Thanks for breakfast."

With that, Keqing left for work.

Shenhe gave Xiangling a small nod before leaving while eating her breakfast.

After they left, Takumi came downstairs.

Seeing Xiangling, Takumi quickly said, "Wait for me, I'll be ready soon."

After a few minutes, Takumi emerged, ready to go.

"Alright! Let's go. Get in the car."

Takumi hopped into the driver's seat.

Xiangling let Guoba sit in the back while she took the passenger seat.

As Takumi drove off, Xiangling handed him some buns.

Takumi took a bun while steering the vehicle.

"The roads have been repaired, and there aren't many travelers. If all goes well, we should reach the Shimen service area by afternoon. From there, we'll head to Mondstadt tomorrow."

Hearing this, Xiangling nodded eagerly. "Alright! Sounds good!"

With the plan set, Takumi increased his speed towards Shimen.

By morning, Guili Plains was already bustling with activity.

Takumi passed by vegetable vendors hauling their produce to Guili Plains' market. The marketplace was now fully operational, and vendors—whether selling vegetables, meat, or other goods—were setting up for the day.

Takumi had established a well-regulated system. Vendors had designated areas inside the market, and selling on the roadside was prohibited. Anyone caught doing so would have to deal with the Qianyan Army.

Stall rents were affordable, and the market was conveniently located near residential areas, allowing vendors to earn well daily.

Construction site chefs frequently purchased fresh produce, ensuring steady business for the vendors.

Guili Plains had become a thriving economic hub.

Even former members of the Treasure Hoarders had started working regular jobs instead of returning to their old ways.

Why be a thief when even their former leader, Baizhi, had switched to selling vegetables? Some had even started pork businesses.

After all, the goal of being a Treasure Hoarder was to make money, right?

Now, with honest labor, they could make money legally and even save up for a home in Guili Plains.

Keqing, recognizing their efforts, had even begun increasing their wages for steady work.

As long as they reformed themselves, they had a future.