Ryan sat on the worn-out couch in his small living room, staring at the system interface floating in his mind. The recent notification of completing his first task and earning system points was still fresh. The points had unlocked a new feature: the system marketplace. The array of options displayed before him was overwhelming yet exciting.
The marketplace was organized into various categories, and one in particular caught Ryan's attention—"Ability Upgrades." The list of upgrades showcased a variety of enticing options:
1. Advanced Appraisal Ability (80 Points)
An enhanced version of his current ability, allowing detailed analysis of an item's history, condition, and craftsmanship.
2. Remote Appraisal Ability (300 Points)
Enables appraisal via photos or videos without the need to physically interact with the item.
3. Automatic Filtering Mode (150 Points)
Automatically identifies high-value items in a chaotic environment without the need for individual scans.
4. Random Appraisal Card (20 Points)
A single-use feature that allows a random appraisal of an item to reveal basic information.
5. Spatial Storage Function (500 Points)
Unlocks a private space for storing items, ideal for concealing and transporting large or valuable goods.
6. Item Restoration Function (800 Points)
Repairs damaged items, restoring them to their original condition and increasing their value.
Ryan's gaze lingered on "Remote Appraisal Ability" for a moment, but the steep cost of 300 points made it unattainable for now. After a moment of deliberation, he decided on a more practical option: Advanced Appraisal Ability.
"It's affordable and adds real value to what I'm already doing," Ryan thought. The detailed description mentioned that the upgraded ability would provide not just the market value but also a full history and precise condition of any item. "This could help me avoid awkward moments like last time," he muttered to himself, recalling his reliance on vague appraisals during his earlier encounter with Emma.
He selected the ability, and the system's familiar voice confirmed: "Advanced Appraisal Ability activated."
Eager to test it out, Ryan looked around the room and picked up an ordinary-looking ceramic mug from the coffee table. Concentrating on the mug, he activated the upgraded ability. A detailed analysis immediately appeared in his mind:
"Item: Basic Ceramic Mug
Manufacturing Year: 2021
Origin: Jingdezhen, China
Craftsmanship: Mass-produced with standard molding techniques; chemical glaze applied, not traditional high-temperature firing.
Condition: Excellent, with minor scratches and a small chip on the base.
Market Value: Approximately $5."
Ryan chuckled. The level of detail was impressive compared to the simple valuations he used to get. He could now envision the mug's production process and even its small imperfections.
Curious, he grabbed an old book from the shelf and tried again:
"Item: Bestseller, Chasing the Wind
Publishing Year: 2012, First Edition
Condition: Good, with slight yellowing on inner pages and a minor crease on the lower-left corner of the cover.
Synopsis: A popular novel of its time, focused on themes of personal growth and pursuing dreams.
Market Value: $3."
"This upgrade is worth every point," Ryan thought, feeling genuinely impressed. Not only could he now assess market value, but he could also confidently talk about an item's history, adding depth and credibility to his appraisals.
Feeling satisfied, Ryan packed his bag and decided it was time to thank Tom properly. He dialed his neighbor's number.
"Hey, Tom, dinner's on me tonight. Get dressed and let's go!" Ryan said with a grin.
Tom sounded surprised on the other end. "Dinner? What's the occasion? Did you hit the jackpot or something?"
"You'll find out soon enough. Just don't say no, okay?" Ryan replied, leaving no room for negotiation.
After some playful back-and-forth, Tom finally agreed, and the two of them met at a local upscale restaurant—one they usually couldn't justify visiting.
Over plates of delicious food and a bottle of good wine, Tom couldn't hold back his curiosity anymore. "So, what's the story here? You don't usually splurge like this."
Ryan laughed and leaned back in his chair. "It's about that ebony cabinet I got from you. I had it appraised online, and it turned out to be worth quite a bit. I sold it for a good price."
Tom blinked, momentarily stunned, before breaking into a wide smile. "Seriously? That's amazing, man! I'm so happy for you. You've got an eye for these things, clearly."
Ryan felt a pang of guilt. While he had paid Tom for the cabinet, its true value far exceeded what Tom had initially asked for. Yet Tom's genuine joy for Ryan's success reassured him.
"Thanks, Tom. Honestly, if it weren't for you, I'd never have come across that cabinet in the first place," Ryan said, lifting his glass in a toast.
Tom waved him off with a laugh. "Nah, that's all you, buddy. You spotted its value, not me. Just don't forget to treat me again when you're rolling in cash."
The two clinked glasses, their laughter filling the cozy restaurant atmosphere.
A few days later, Ryan arrived at the private antique exhibition Emma had invited him to. He had taken extra care with his appearance, opting for the best clothes he owned to make a good impression.
The exhibition hall was a blend of elegance and history. Deep red carpets covered the floor, lending a sense of warmth and sophistication, while soft, golden light from ornate chandeliers illuminated each display. Antique porcelain, weathered furniture, and timeless artifacts were arranged in glass cases, each piece seemingly whispering tales of its storied past.
The crowd was a mix of styles—some attendees in tailored suits engaged in quiet conversations, while others in casual attire sipped champagne as they admired the exhibits. In one corner, staff adjusted the angles of certain items to highlight their unique features, ensuring every detail was appreciated.
A subtle fragrance lingered in the air, a combination of polished wood, aged leather, and old books, evoking the charm of a bygone era. From across the hall, the occasional hum of bidding from a small auction area added a lively undertone to the otherwise serene atmosphere. The exhibition felt less like a gathering and more like a journey through time.
As Ryan wandered through the exhibits, his eyes caught sight of a familiar figure in the distance—the elderly antique dealer who had once given him advice.
The old man noticed Ryan at the same time and approached him with a knowing smile. "Ah, young man, we meet again."
Ryan greeted him warmly. "It's great to see you, sir. I really owe you a lot. Thanks to your advice, I managed to sell that ebony cabinet online for a good price."
The old man nodded approvingly. "You've done well. Taking advice and acting on it is a skill many overlook. Remember, patience and a sharp eye are your greatest assets in this field."
Before Ryan could respond, a familiar voice chimed in. "Grandpa, what are you doing here?"
Ryan turned to see Emma approaching, her tailored dress and poised demeanor exuding elegance. She glanced between the two of them with a look of mild surprise. "Wait, you two know each other?"
Ryan blinked, then chuckled. "So he's your grandfather? Small world. It was actually his advice that helped me sell the cabinet online."
Emma's eyes lit up with recognition. "Really? That's quite the coincidence. Funny enough, I ended up adding that cabinet to my own collection."
Ryan laughed along with them, feeling the weight of the past few days ease. Their conversation flowed naturally, and he realized that this chance encounter had brought him more than just professional opportunities—it had opened a door to connections that felt surprisingly meaningful.