Chapter 27: Level-Up Reward: [Black Iron Emblem]

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.