Chapter 6: Road to Progress

Satoshi stood in the middle of Mondstadt's bustling market square, gazing at the energetic atmosphere around him. People walked about, chatting, buying fresh produce, and merchants were loudly advertising their goods. The picturesque scene felt like something out of a fairytale, and sometimes it was easy to forget that this very place was going to be the center of his next big project—bringing Mondstadt into the modern era.

With Albedo now on board and the blacksmiths cooperating, Satoshi had made significant progress with the bank plans. The foundation for the bank was nearly complete, and the alchemic reinforcements were underway. But the System had other plans for him—specifically, the next mission had arrived: building roads.

"System," Satoshi muttered, looking at the glowing mission screen, "You really love piling up responsibilities on me, don't you?"

"Host is advised to complete the mission for appropriate rewards," the System droned back.

"Of course, of course," Satoshi sighed. "And I'll get some amazing reward like a magical screw, right?"

"Reward: Electrical Generator and Beginner's Electrical Engineering Kit," the System responded in its flat tone.

Satoshi's eyes widened. "Wait, seriously? An electrical generator?! That's… actually really useful."

He could barely contain his excitement. With a generator, he could begin laying the groundwork for bringing electricity to Mondstadt. Lightbulbs, electric heaters, and eventually even basic household appliances—the possibilities were endless! But first, he needed to complete the mission, which meant he had to build roads.

---

Satoshi met Amber and Kaeya by the gate to Mondstadt. They had agreed to help him scout the routes for the new roads—an endeavor that required both planning and a good deal of charm to win over the townspeople whose property might be affected.

"Alright, Satoshi," Amber said with a grin, "show us the plans! What's the big idea for these new roads?"

Satoshi unrolled a large parchment, revealing a rough sketch of Mondstadt and the surrounding areas. He had drawn in several proposed roads—one leading to the winery, one connecting to Springvale, and another that cut across the city to make getting around easier.

"This road here," Satoshi said, pointing to the one leading out of Mondstadt, "is going to be a major connection to the rest of Teyvat. We need something that's wide enough for future vehicles—maybe even something like buses."

Kaeya raised an eyebrow, clearly amused. "Buses, you say? You certainly have a talent for dreaming big, Satoshi. Are you sure Mondstadt is ready for such advancements?"

Satoshi shrugged. "Maybe not yet. But that's the whole point, isn't it? To prepare for the future. And besides, everyone will benefit from better roads—easier travel, safer conditions, less mud to deal with in the rainy season."

Amber nodded enthusiastically. "I think it's a great idea! Plus, if we can get more people traveling between Mondstadt and the nearby areas, it might mean more trade. And more trade means more Mora for everyone!"

Kaeya chuckled. "You're not wrong, Amber. Still, we'll need to convince the people whose land is going to be affected. They might not be as thrilled about giving up their gardens for a new road."

"I know," Satoshi admitted, running a hand through his hair. "But I think I can convince them. If I explain how it'll help everyone, maybe they'll be willing to make a compromise."

"That's the spirit!" Amber said, punching the air. "Let's get started then. We've got some people to talk to!"

---

The first stop was a quaint house just outside the city walls. A well-tended garden stretched out in front of it, with flowers of every color imaginable. The homeowner, an elderly woman named Margot, was known for her roses, which she sold at the market every week.

Satoshi knocked gently on the wooden door, and a moment later, Margot appeared. She eyed the trio with a mix of curiosity and caution.

"Oh, it's the young inventor," she said, her voice carrying a hint of warmth. "And Amber and Kaeya, too. To what do I owe this visit?"

Satoshi gave her his best polite smile. "Hi, Margot. I'm working on a project to improve the roads around Mondstadt, and I wanted to talk to you about a new road that might pass near your garden."

Margot's brow furrowed. "A road, you say? Near my roses?"

"Yes," Satoshi said, carefully. "I know it's a lot to ask, but this new road would make it easier for everyone to get in and out of Mondstadt—including getting your beautiful roses to the market faster. We're trying to make travel safer and more convenient for everyone."

Margot eyed the map Satoshi showed her, her frown softening slightly as Amber chimed in. "It'll also mean fewer people trampling around the edges of your garden by accident, Margot. You know how those adventurers can be, always cutting corners."

Margot let out a small laugh. "Oh, don't I know it. Always stepping on my lilies whenever they come back from a quest. Well… I suppose if it'll help keep my flowers safe, I might be willing to consider it."

Satoshi's eyes lit up. "Really? That's great! I promise we'll take every precaution to make sure your garden stays beautiful. I'll even help replant anything that might get disturbed."

Margot smiled, patting Satoshi's shoulder. "You're a good kid. Alright, you have my blessing. But I'll be keeping an eye on those roses of mine!"

"Deal," Satoshi said, relieved.

---

After a long day of visiting several more homeowners and explaining his plans, Satoshi and his friends finally returned to the Knights' headquarters. He was exhausted but also exhilarated—most of the people they'd spoken to had been surprisingly supportive, especially with Amber and Kaeya there to back him up.

"Not a bad day," Kaeya said, leaning against a pillar. "You managed to convince almost everyone. I'm impressed, Satoshi."

"Thanks," Satoshi said, flopping down on a bench. "I wasn't sure how people would react. But I think they see that I'm trying to help."

Amber sat down beside him, giving him a bright smile. "Of course they do! You're doing something amazing, and people can see that. Plus, you've got us to help!"

Satoshi chuckled. "Yeah, I definitely couldn't do it without you guys." He glanced at the System screen, which was still displaying his current mission—"Build Roads in Mondstadt." He was making progress, but there was still so much to do.

"You know," Kaeya said, his tone turning teasing, "I'm curious about these future vehicles you mentioned. Are we going to see horseless carriages roaming around Mondstadt anytime soon?"

Satoshi laughed. "Maybe! But first, we've got to get the roads built. One thing at a time, right?"

"One thing at a time," Amber echoed, nodding. "And when we get there, I'll be the first to drive one of those horseless carriages!"

Satoshi grinned. "You got it, Amber. I'll even put a sticker on it that says 'Outrider No. 1.'"

Amber's eyes sparkled. "Deal!"

The three of them laughed, the weight of the day's work lifting slightly as they shared the moment. It wasn't going to be easy—there were still challenges ahead, and Satoshi knew that convincing everyone in Mondstadt wouldn't always be this smooth. But with friends like Amber and Kaeya by his side, he felt like he could take on anything.

"Alright, Mondstadt," he said, looking out at the city as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting everything in a warm orange glow. "Let's keep moving forward… one road at a time."