Chapter 157

The Angel's Share Tavern was very lively.

It was after dinner, and some patrons had come to settle their meals with a drink. In addition, several bards were singing, adding to the ambiance of the tavern.

Although Takumi had never been to a bar in his previous life, he felt that a tavern without music was dull. However, these people seemed to be enjoying themselves.

Seeing new guests arrive, a waiter quickly approached to greet them. He immediately recognized Lumine.

"Oh, it's the Traveler!" the waiter said. "And welcome to you as well, sir."

Takumi nodded. "No need to attend to us. You can go about your duties. We're here to see your boss."

The waiter was momentarily stunned, but Takumi had already spotted Diluc, who was busy behind the bar and hadn't noticed them yet.

Takumi walked over directly. "Mr Diluc!"

Hearing the familiar voice, Diluc looked up and, upon seeing Takumi, greeted him. "Have a seat. I'll treat you to a drink."

Paimon, standing beside Takumi, perked up with excitement. "Really? That's great! Give me something delicious!"

"Children can't drink," Diluc responded flatly. "You can have milk."

Without waiting for a reply, he turned to prepare Takumi's drink.

Paimon pouted. "What? I'm not a child!"

Despite her protests, no one paid her any attention. She might not be a child, but she certainly looked like one.

Meanwhile, other patrons in the tavern noticed Takumi's arrival and grew curious. Who was this man?

Kaeya, who was seated nearby, also noticed Takumi and strolled over. "Yo! Mr. Takumi, you're here."

"Kaeya!" Paimon greeted him enthusiastically.

Kaeya smirked. "Would little Paimon like a drink? My dear brother's wine is quite good."

"Don't corrupt others," Diluc scolded him immediately. "What are you thinking?"

Paimon huffed, clearly displeased. "Hmph! Everyone underestimates me!"

Ignoring her complaints, Takumi accepted the drink Diluc handed him and took a sip.

Diluc poured sparkling water for Lumine and Paimon instead of wine. After preparing the drinks, he sat down across from Takumi. "Have you finished your business in Mond?"

Takumi nodded. "It's all settled. The rest of the details will be handled by Ningguang and Jean. The power grid project is set to begin soon. Also, a hydroelectric power station will be built near your winery. Once it's completed, you'll be among the first to have access to electricity."

Diluc raised an eyebrow. "You're planning to build it near the waterfall? That makes sense."

Lumine and Kaeya, on the other hand, didn't quite follow the conversation. While Diluc had visited Liyue before and understood what Takumi was referring to, the others were less familiar with the technological advancements there.

Takumi explained Mond's upcoming projects, and Diluc nodded approvingly. "That sounds promising. Any investment opportunities? If so, I'd like to be involved."

With Liyue's industries expanding to Mond, there was certainly potential for profit. Diluc was interested in seizing the opportunity.

Hearing this, Takumi smirked. "Why not invest in agriculture? Raising cattle, for instance, would be a good option. If that doesn't suit you, consider beverages. Sparkling water, with a few modifications, could become a popular drink."

Diluc was intrigued. "Sparkling water?"

"I'll show you," Takumi said, suddenly interested. The taste of sparkling water reminded him of cola. With a few added ingredients, it could be quite appealing.

Diluc, curious, asked, "How do you make it?"

Takumi listed the necessary ingredients. Diluc, intrigued, called for his staff to fetch the required items.

A waiter soon returned with the supplies, and Diluc began experimenting. He mixed water, caramel, vanilla, cinnamon, and lemon juice, among other ingredients.

Watching the process, Kaeya raised an eyebrow. "Is this even drinkable?"

Takumi nodded. "Of course, but the key is in the right balance of ingredients. If you get the proportions wrong, it won't taste good."

Diluc worked diligently, and soon, he had a dark-colored liquid resembling cola.

Paimon, however, was skeptical. "That looks weird. Are you sure it's not poisonous?"

Ignoring her, Diluc poured himself a small glass and took a sip. He didn't spit it out. Instead, he looked pleasantly surprised. "It actually tastes pretty good. Sweet, with a hint of spice."

Paimon, still unconvinced, eyed the drink warily. "Are you sure? It looks suspicious…"