Chapter 253: Earning Money and Avoiding Trouble

Kai’s Gene Stimulant was certainly a precious item, but it was not at a level where he could put a very high price on it yet.

[ Gene Stimulant Injector (Unique): A specialized injector containing a biochemical stimulant. Temporarily enhances cellular recovery, stamina, and reflex response.

Effects last for at least 10 minutes. ]

[ Note: Overuse may cause strain on the body. ]

The effects could only last for 10 minutes, and using them continuously would cause strain to the body.

Still, even if the shopkeeper just briefly analyzed it, she could tell that it would be a hot item once it became available to the market.

As she further looked at it, she froze, her eyes turned between Kai and the injector. She realized this was no ordinary bargain... it was a real deal.

She could probably sell it for about 10 or more C-Grade Cores as long as she knew how to handle the hype about it.

After a few tense moments, she nodded eagerly. "Agreed!"

Kai’s smile widened.

Without hesitation, he reached into his pouch and carefully laid out twenty-four more injectors on the counter. At this point, everything was sparkling in the shopkeeper’s eyes.

These things were all treasures! her expression shifting from disbelief to sheer joy.

Just like that, Kai turned the extra Gene Stimulant Injectors that he had into 175 C-Grade Crystal Cores!

Furthermore, he didn’t have to worry about where to dispose of them, since he secured a loyal contact within Cameron City.

For the shopkeeper, it was the deal of a lifetime, one that could elevate her humble herbal shop into a supplier of rare, coveted stimulants.

Mei and Farrah exchanged glances... After all, he still had another!

This next item was from the same gift pack!

"I have twenty-five of these items as well."

[ Spirit‑Boosting Potion Flask (Unique): A prepared tonic designed to restore mental clarity, focus, and Spirit Energy. Provides temporary resistance against fatigue and mental debuff. ]

[ Note: The effect weakens if consumed repeatedly in a brief period. ]

Once again, the old shopkeeper was shocked... Still, this time, she didn’t dare to miss the opportunity.

She didn’t hesitate and immediately offered 8 C-Grade Cores for each of them.

Based on her own appraisal, the potion provides about 30 to 40 Spirit Points. With that in consideration, she believed that 8 C-Grade Cores should be fair since the ones that only give about 20 Spirit Points were being sold for 5 Cores.

With Kai’s potion, he believed that he could sell it for 11 or more and profit well from it.

And just like that, Kai had made his first major transaction in Cameron City.

***

Xian was left speechless as they stepped out of the herbal shop. His eyes were still wide, his mind racing after watching Kai casually trade away dozens of rare stimulants and potions.

To him, it looked like something only a master alchemist could do.

"You... you’re incredible," Xian finally managed, his voice was still trembling with excitement. "I didn’t expect you’d have items like that. I thought only faction alchemists could make things like those."

Kai didn’t respond, simply walking ahead with the same calm expression. He had no intention of correcting the boy...

Nonetheless, Xian’s heart was pounding.

Hope surged through him, stronger than ever.

’If he has stimulants and potions like that... maybe he has something that could cure her...’

Gathering his courage, Xian hurried to Kai’s side. "Sir Kai," he said quietly, almost pleading, "do you... do you have a cure? For sicknesses? For someone who’s... really ill?"

Mei and Farrah exchanged glances, realizing what he meant. The boy wasn’t asking for himself... he was thinking of his sister.

Kai slowed his steps, studying Xian’s desperate expression. He didn’t answer right away...

First of all, he didn’t know how sick Xian’s sister was. He also had Medical Gift Packs, but they were mostly equipment that had to be used by medical practitioners instead of a magical medicine that could cure any disease.

"Mhm... I don’t know. We can visit her later. For now, we need to look around this city." Kai replied.

"Yes! I’ll guide you!" Xian’s eyes lit up.

He didn’t mind if Kai had the cure or not. The fact that he was willing to check his sister’s condition was already good enough for him.

Just like that, they continued looking around and passed through various stores like a cobbler shop, a bookstore, a pharmacy, a millinery or hat maker, a smithy, and others...

Soon, the street widened, and at the end stood a mansion...

"Hmm? Is this the City Mayor’s mansion or something?" Kai mused.

He looked at its tall iron gates, guarded by armored men who watched the road with sharp eyes. The building itself was imposing, with banners hanging from its walls.... Well, it was a crab symbol etched in black and silver.

Kai immediately had an idea and Xian confirmed it.

"Don’t go near that place," he warned...

"That mansion belongs to one of the Twelve Factions... the Cancer Faction."

"Cancer Faction..." Kai repeated. He guessed as much.

Hale Libra, Cornelio Aries... and now, the Cancer Faction. It was indeed the Zodiac.

Xian nodded quickly.

"They’re one of the strongest groups in Cameron City. I don’t really like them compared to others. They’re more ruthless and very protective of their territory. Outsiders who wander too close might get treated as spies. You don’t want their attention."

Mei’s eyes narrowed as she studied the banners. "So each faction has its own district?"

"Exactly," Xian said. "The Aries Faction, Taurus, Cancer... all twelve have their own strongholds scattered across the city. This mansion is Cancer’s base. If you value your safety, keep your distance."

Kai glanced at the guards again.

They were humans and not Sentinels...

Their armor was polished, and their eyes were already locked onto their group...

Kai understood immediately... this wasn’t a place for casual curiosity.

"Alright," Kai said firmly. "We’ll steer clear."

Xian exhaled in relief. "Good. I don’t want you getting into trouble. The factions are powerful, and they don’t forgive mistakes."

The group turned away from the mansion to continue down the quieter streets. Kai was even planning to check the smithy just now.

However, as soon as they turned their backs, they heard the iron gates creaking open...

Soon, they heard a voice calling out for them...

"Miss! Stop right there!"