Sean settled into the Magic Guild's library, pushing aside distractions. His goal wasn't just EXP—he needed to understand this world to survive. For instance: how to profit.
Commerce thrives on needs. The locals lacked basic necessities like soap and distilled alcohol, which Sean could potentially introduce.
He also delved into mage history. Matthew's half-told tale of mage legions piqued his interest. Understanding magic's role in politics could be crucial.
…
At 4:30 p.m., Sean's EXP bar finally hit Level11 11/200. A surge of energy coursed through him—heart pounding, muscles tingling—before fading. His updated status read:
Name: Sean Violet
Level: 11 (Black Iron Lower Rank)
Race: Human
Talent: None
Class: None
Spells: None
Weapons: None
EXP: 11/200
Arcane Dust: 0
Modules Unlocked: 2/16
A system prompt appeared:
[Black Iron Emblem x2]
Reward for reaching Level 11. Use to instantly grant 100 EXP to a follower.
Sean smiled. Windsor's rank-up can wait until Level 18. Save them for later.
…
At 5 p.m., the librarian approached. "Your steward is here."
Sean returned his books, borrowing several on mage history and economics.
…
Unbeknownst to him, the librarian copied the titles of every book he'd read. Clutching the list, she vanished into the guild's depths.
…
At the entrance, Henry explained: "Count Rivers'butler William delayed the gold transfer. Attend his 6 p.m. banquet, and you'll receive it afterward."
"Understood. Pen and paper, please." Sean jotted down his afternoon's insights:
Profit Opportunities: Introduce soap, distilled alcohol, and paper.Mage Control: Anjou Kingdom's three methods to subjugate Lane:Tribute: 10% of taxes.Hostage: Sean's sister Catherine, sent to Anjou at 12.Mage Regulation: The true lever of power.
…
Sean's mind raced. Mage Regulation—how does it work? He resolved to investigate further at the banquet.