Chapter 624 - Chapter 624, A Genius Upgrade

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Chapter 624, A Genius Upgrade

Skitt poured tea for the guest and casually said, "I heard he served as a squad leader in Rentam City, earned a second-class merit, and was exceptionally promoted to Deputy Steward. Sigh~! He's way more capable than us."

His tone ended with a note of envy.

Magronoro gently stroked his beard, seemingly lost in thought.

Seeing the silence, Skitt asked, "Why do you ask about that?"

Magronoro came back to his senses, "I lived in Rentam City for a while. I thought it might give us something to talk about when I meet the Island Lord."

Skitt chuckled, "Mr. Magronoro, you're too modest. With your chamber's resources, a normal visit with a few gifts is more than enough. No need to overthink."

"Still, being prepared is better," Magronoro said, flipping his hand to retrieve a gift box from his spatial ring.

He opened it, revealing a gem-encrusted shortsword in a jeweled sheath, and pushed it forward. "I came across this dwarven-made sword by chance. It doesn't suit my profession, and it's been sitting unused in my ring. I thought I'd bring it as a gift to congratulate you on becoming Deputy Steward."

Skitt was momentarily stunned.

His gaze was immediately drawn to the shortsword in the box.

Judging by its materials alone, it was clearly valuable.

But weapons like this were mostly decorative, meant for study or display. As combat gear, they were more flashy than functional.

"What would you like to ask, Mr. Magronoro? We're old friends—you can speak freely," Skitt said, shifting his gaze.

Magronoro smiled and asked directly, "Is the Island Lord really as amazing as they say? Can he really deduce so much from mere observation?"

"It seems true. Whenever the Steward has a tough case, she'll go to the Island Lord. Every time, she comes back and arrests the culprit right away," Skitt replied seriously.

Magronoro's eyes widened in disbelief.

He had doubted the stories.

But even the Deputy Steward vouched for them.

It really did sound just like the tales.

"The Island Lord is a necromancer—he should have spirit servants, right?"

Skitt thought for a moment, "Seems like just one—the Miss Beni from the story."

...…

Afternoon, Island Lord's Mansion.

Wu Heng continued assembling electromagnetic cannon parts.

Piece by piece, forming larger components.

He still had high hopes for this weapon.

If it could really be simulated through "Mansion Technique," it might actually kill from a thousand miles away in this otherworld.

Level 18 Professionals? Heroes?

All equal!

Tap tap tap~!

Footsteps approached—Minnie, Annette, and Robé walked over, arms full of packages.

Minnie peeked from the side of a gift box, "Master, more merchant groups came by and left these."

For the past two days, merchants kept arriving on the island to visit him.

For the nobles of this world, social visits and hosting balls were normal.

But to Wu Heng, spending time on these receptions...

Still felt a bit burdensome.

So he had Minnie tell them he was away, to come another day or leave their names and chamber info.

That way, he'd know who came.

"Take them inside. Use whatever's useful; store the rest to give away later," Wu Heng instructed.

"Yes, Master."

...…

After dinner,

Wu Heng, Shanaila, and Andviel sat around the table.

Continuing to discuss tomorrow's exhibition.

Shanaila said, "Everything's arranged. The first day is only for merchants and nobility, to avoid overcrowding and accidents."

Wu Heng nodded and looked at Andviel, "Veil, any issues with the patrol teams?"

"All briefed. We'll deploy enough patrols to maintain order," she replied. "Deputy Steward Sheila Grey also assigned people to the venue. Security should be fine."

"Then we proceed as planned."

Wu Heng turned to Shanaila, "Staying over tonight?"

Shanaila thought for a moment, "The island's pretty crowded—I'll pass tonight."

"Fair. Once this is over, let's build a secret passage."

Shanaila gave him a side-eye, "That sounds so wrong."

...…

Night cooled the air.

Lighthouse Street's streetlights flickered on.

Shops stayed open, vendors wheeled out their carts and began hawking.

Crowds poured into the streets to chat and cool off.

The whole city came alive, even livelier than daytime.

Bards stood on crates under lamplight, reading the latest newspaper tales.

Residents sat in groups, listening intently or chatting nearby.

New merchants and nobles opened tavern windows or walked the streets,

Amazed at the scene before them.

"What a magical little island."

...…

The next day, at the exhibition venue.

A large crowd had already gathered outside the exhibition.

According to the plan, the first day of the exhibition was only open to registered chambers of commerce and noble representatives, to prevent any danger or conflict.

After all, in a different world where everyone is a Professional, it was very different from the modern world.

Once the first day passed, it would be open to the public without so many restrictions.

"Mr. Magnoro, you're quite late."

Just as he stepped off the carriage, a familiar figure accompanied by guards approached—someone who had been on the same ship.

"Mr. Ludew, it hasn't started yet, so I don't think I'm late at all," Magnoro replied with a mature and graceful smile.

Ludew smiled and nodded, "You're right. We just came early."

"A lot of people were invited this time, from all races. It's truly a rare sight," Magnoro said, glancing around.

In addition to human merchant groups, there were also those of other races.

Elves, dwarves, and gnomes were all present.

Inviting merchant guilds was one thing, but getting so many different races together wasn't simple.

It was enough to prove that the Island Lord was not as simple as he appeared.

Ludew continued, "Mr. Magnoro, have you visited the Island Lord yet?"

"Got delayed by some matters. I'll visit the Island Lord when I have time," Magnoro said softly.

Ludew wasn't truly interested in whether he had or not, and said, "I heard those who went earlier all received a gift called a fountain pen, but those who went later didn't get that treatment."

Magnoro didn't care at all, "Just trivial little gifts, nothing worth fussing over."

"You're right," Ludew said, his gaze suddenly sharpening. "The exhibition's starting. Let's go in."

...…

As the two spoke, the exhibition officially began.

The barrier ahead opened, and people walked in, two or three at a time.

Even though it was only for merchant representatives and important nobles today, many brought guards or attendants, making the crowd sizable.

They passed through a corridor and entered the first floor of the exhibition hall.

With its high vaulted ceiling, bright chandeliers, and well-organized booths, it was meticulously designed.

The first floor displayed household goods.

Finely crafted tableware, intricately carved ornaments, brightly colored and tightly woven fabrics.

There were also beautiful decorations rarely seen on the market.

The hall dazzled the eyes, like stepping into a palace.

Everyone who entered was instantly overwhelmed.

As they moved forward, a sudden gasp came from the front.

"Wow, what a genius idea."

"They actually improved it to this extent…"

Exclamations of astonishment and disbelief echoed in the central area.

As if some great invention was being showcased ahead.

Everyone began to gather toward the center.

At the center of the hall was a small booth.

Inside the glass display case were several differently styled fountain pens. A large screen in the middle looped footage of an elegant elven girl gracefully writing with a pen.

"They turned quill pens into something like this."

"It's a product from Gold-Silver Island. Whoever thought of it must be a genius."

"I bet it's the Island Lord's invention. He must have noticed the quill's inconvenience and improved it."

"Definitely, it must be made by the Island Lord."

"Such a terrifying young man."

"Yeah, the era of quill pens might be over."

People whispered among themselves.

Some stepped up to the counter to ask about prices and partnership conditions.

...…

More and more people gathered at the center, forming several layers of crowds.

Seeing they couldn't squeeze in, some headed up to the second floor.

The second floor was dimly lit and displayed weapons and equipment.

Racks held swords, bows, and crossbows, while the walls showcased various armors and leathers.

Different races, different styles.

A wide variety, too.

But when they reached the inner center exhibit,

Everyone's eyes widened again.

Items were displayed in glass cases, and above them, a screen played footage of an alchemist refining potions while calculating time.

"It's a pocket watch! The one mentioned in the new story."

"The Great Detective story is real after all."

"It's not a pocket watch—it says 'wristwatch.' Looks like an upgrade."

"Accurate timekeeping, perfect for alchemists."

"Also a product from the Island Lord's mansion. How does he have so many things?"

"Let's check the third floor. See what's up there."

"Yeah, let's go."

With a loud rush, everyone headed for the stairs to the third floor.

...…

The third floor sold potions, magic scrolls, and magical tools.

Everyone poured onto the third floor.

The other booths were quickly scanned over.

Everyone went straight to the center area.

As they approached, everyone froze.

The central booth was even smaller—only four or five square meters. Inside the glass case was a single potion.

Behind the counter stood a beautifully dressed long-skirted lop-eared rabbit girl.

Surrounding the area were two layers of Skeletons.

Fully armored and with swords at their waists.

"Damn, what kind of potion requires such a setup?"

People hesitated, but seeing no danger and hearing calls from the stairway,

They moved closer and examined the potion.

It was enclosed in a glass case and used an ordinary healing potion bottle.

It looked plain—nothing special at all.

On each side were two appraisal certificates.

The left was from the Guild. Potion name: [Strength Enhancement Potion]. Effect: improves constitution, boosts physical functions, enhances overall effectiveness.

The right was from the Snake Emblem Consortium. Potion name: [Enhancement Potion]. Effect: enhances body attributes including but not limited to strength and constitution.

Unlike the excitement caused by the two downstairs exhibits,

The crowd here fell silent. Only people in the back kept asking what was going on.

Asking what it was, what was being sold.

For the wealthy merchants and nobles, personal strength or prolonging life was most important.

One of them looked around and asked, "This potion—sold by the Island Lord's mansion? How do we buy it?"

The lop-eared rabbit girl behind the case smiled, "Yes, it's sold by the Island Lord's mansion. Right now it's just for display. Sale details will be released later."

No one was surprised by this response.

It made sense—if it could be mass-produced, it wouldn't be rare anymore.

"When it is sold, how do we get the news?" another person politely asked.

The others remained silent,

Waiting for the answer.

The rabbit-eared girl kept smiling, "You may leave your information. We'll notify your chamber in advance and give everyone time to prepare."

"Great, thank you. Where do we leave it?"

"Over here."

One by one, they stepped forward, filled in their information, and quickly left.

This exhibition was terrifying.

The other chamber goods became mere background.

No matter how fancy the design or expensive the materials, they were still common market goods.

But the three items from Gold-Silver Island—each one could reshape the market.

Fountain pen, wristwatch, and a potion that enhanced constitution.

Just what kind of person was this Island Lord?

To bring out so many products all at once at an exhibition.

And it was only the first day.

Once the news got out, the world would be stunned.

Everyone who went to the third floor left with heads down, walking faster than they came.

Those just arriving looked confused.

Cursing quietly.

...…

Three Specters weaved through the exhibition without pause.

While watching the commotion, they also observed the expressions and reactions of the attendees.

Before coming, Wu Heng had warned them—some of the visitors might be high-level Professionals, so they needed to keep a safe distance.

If someone detected the presence of specters, it could easily cause misunderstandings.

Most living beings still held hostility and wariness toward undead creatures. A single glance could cause a scene.

Of course, as long as they kept their distance, the perception range of living beings was limited.

With caution, many troubles could be avoided.

After observing the exhibition for a while,

Glenda decided to head back—she had a novel to revise.

Unlike Xiaoxiao and Beni, she didn't have such freedom.

But revising stories and writing new ones was her passion.

She enjoyed it, especially since her work had gained popularity and was even being sold outside the island.

Just as she was about to leave, she caught sight of a familiar figure in the corner of her eye, moving with the crowd toward the exit.

Then, outside the exhibition, the figure boarded a carriage and left into the distance.

The silhouette, the way they walked—it was all too familiar.

You're not dead?

Why are you still alive?

Glenda's eyes widened. A surge of rage and fear rose in her chest.

Her spectral features began to twist, teetering on the edge of a mental breakdown.

Glenda forcefully suppressed her distorted and agitated emotions and flew in the direction the figure had gone.

...…

"How did it go?" Wu Heng asked as Xiaoxiao returned.

Floating in midair, Xiaoxiao said, "It was a blast—so many people! And they were all super interested in the products we showcased. Everyone kept asking how to buy them."

"Just as I expected," Wu Heng replied with a confident smile.

Xiaoxiao gave a big thumbs-up. "Uncle, you're amazing."

"Of course!"

As they spoke, Beni flew back in and said, "There were two fights at the venue, but the patrolling Skeletons intervened. They split up right away—nothing major."

Wu Heng nodded. "As long as it didn't escalate, it's fine. They wouldn't dare go too far on the island."

Footsteps echoed nearby.

Two Specters faded into invisibility.

Minnie walked over with a sheet of paper. "Master, Annette sent the first list. These are the names left at the potion booth."

The exhibition layout had the first and second floors staffed by city hall personnel acting as guides.

The third floor was managed by Annette.

Today's focus for the Strength Enhancement Potion was just a teaser—to let more people know about it.

Wu Heng planned to hold an auction later for the actual sales.

After all, it couldn't be mass-produced, so profit maximization had to be considered.

And nobles and merchants never lacked money.

"Let me see!" Wu Heng took the list.

The sheet was filled out in rows—names, chamber names,

Some even included their cities.

Wu Heng's eyes landed on a name—'Magnoro.'

That name… it felt so familiar!

He frowned, pulled out a sheet of paper from his spatial ring, and unfolded it to look at the name.

Identical!

What a coincidence?

Minnie left to go to the front yard.

Wu Heng looked toward the air and said, "Xiaoxiao, Beni, why hasn't Glenda returned?"

"No idea, maybe she went off to play somewhere," Xiaoxiao replied.

Beni added, "I didn't see her either. When I left, Madam Glenda wasn't at the exhibition."

With the ex-husband's name appearing on the list and Glenda missing,

Wu Heng felt a twinge of unease.

Seeing his frown deepen, Beni said, "We'll go look. If she's not at the exhibition, maybe she went to Lighthouse Street."

"Aunt Glenda's in danger? But she's so strong…" Xiaoxiao seemed doubtful.

In Xiaoxiao's mind, Glenda was fierce.

When pirates attacked Gold-Silver Island,

Glenda had wielded a sword and chased people down. Her presence was overwhelming.

Wu Heng thought for a moment and said, "No need—don't run off just yet."

He turned and entered the house, heading upstairs to the Skeletal Prophet's room.

The Skeletal Prophet was sitting by the window, gazing outside.

Wu Heng approached with the two Specters. "What are you looking at? If you want to go out, you can go downstairs."

The Skeletal Prophet stood and bowed slightly, showing respect.

High-intelligence Skeletons were capable of independent thought.

Wu Heng said directly, "One of my Specters is missing. Show me where it went."

The Skeletal Prophet grabbed his arm.

In the next moment, Wu Heng's pupils dilated as countless fragmented scenes flooded his mind.