The Bizarre Wizarding World

"But in fact, our pricing is already at a loss; if we lower it further, we won't be able to maintain the normal production of farming tools, let alone the regular operation of the commerce guild."

Shelley sighed deeply, her voice laced with irony as she eventually added, "The nobles of the Roon Kingdom responsible for cultivating wheat fields aren't truly dedicated to the planting itself; they prefer to socialize at gatherings, train wizards, and pin their hopes on one day propelling their family to greater heights.

The improvement of serfs' farming efficiency, planting more crops… these things do not bring the honor and status they desire."

Colin pressed on his eyebrows, also feeling somewhat vexed.

Shelley, observing his troubled expression, wasn't surprised; she hadn't expected Colin to be able to offer any useful advice, she was simply venting her frustrations.

"Perhaps, you could try further reducing the cost of manufacturing farming tools while temporarily buying up wheat to create demand."

"When those nobles realize that the cost is minimal but the profits substantial, they will naturally take the initiative in providing new farming tools for their serfs."

After careful thought, Colin offered his suggestion.

Shelley blinked in surprise, looking up at Colin before pondering the feasibility of his advice.

"As for how to reduce the cost of manufacturing farming tools, I have read about a design called 'automatic assembly line' in a book…"

Before Shelley could fully consider it, Colin continued.

She listened to these novel and clever ideas, nodding frequently, her pale blue eyes shimmering with fascination.

"Thank you, Colin."

The exchange finally came to a close as night fell.

Shelley expressed her sincere gratitude.

She hadn't anticipated that a mere visit to an old friend would yield such an unexpected windfall!

"No need to be polite, we are friends after all."

Shelley nodded lightly, foregoing excessive formality, but adding:

"If there's anything you or the Chasai Commerce need help with, just let me know."

"Hmm." Colin nodded, and then, as if something occurred to him, he suddenly smiled and said, "Speaking of that, there is indeed one thing you might be able to assist me with."

"I would like Chasai Commerce to help me investigate Cumberland, the Silver Stream Breathing Method, and a man named Gran."

"Cumberland is a wizard of the Roon Royal Family, the Silver Stream Breathing Method can cultivate a unique Blood Energy known as silver threads, and this Gran is a slave and also an intermediate knight."

Getting the rest of Cumberland's research notes or that Nameless Breathing Skill would undoubtedly be of great benefit to his current research.

"Alright." Shelley nodded earnestly, taking note of the information Colin mentioned,

"It's getting late, would you like to stay for dinner?"

"No thanks." Shelley shook her head, inspired by Colin's suggestions and eager to start implementing them!

Colin nodded and didn't press further, only pausing to say:

"I wish you success."

"Hmm." Shelley nodded lightly, gazing at Colin as she responded, "And I wish you success as well."

Colin escorted Shelley to the door, watching as her figure gradually receded into the darkness.

He had always admired the ideals of the True Knowledge Society.

In any world, under any circumstances, it is admirable to see people or organizations striving wholeheartedly for the betterment of those at the bottom.

Although he didn't hold much hope for the actions of the Truth Society on a rational basis, it did not stop Colin from admiring them emotionally.

Colin turned and started back toward the house, pausing as he stepped onto the garden path, thinking to himself:

'If one day I were to reach the peak, what then should I endeavor to do?'

Tonight, there was no moon, the garden under the night sky was especially pitch-black and tranquil.

Over the past year, he and Shelley had walked through this dark garden more than once.

Their conversations had long since moved beyond mere knowledge.

But since that time in the Extreme North, when he had clearly declined the request of the Truth Society, Shelley had never again brought up the matters of the society until today.

A gentle night breeze blew, rustling the vegetation in the garden.

Colin shook his head, continuing his pace.

What to do at the peak, he had never thought of, as it had not yet been reached.

But if that day comes, perhaps making the world a better place wouldn't be such a bad idea.

Time passed silently.

Shelley's efficiency was faster than Colin had anticipated; it wasn't long before a very detailed investigation report was sent to him.

Much to his surprise, the report not only included Cumberland's biography and the complete Silver Stream Breathing Method but also the life story of that Gran and the Breathing Skill he created—the Nameless Breathing Skill!