Lin Mao raised an eyebrow. "Selling, huh?" he asked, eager to know more.
"How does that work around here?"
The young man chuckled and replied, "It's simple, really. Just bring in a copy of your book. We will review it within three days, and if it's something that catches our attention, we will offer you a deal. The terms depend on how good your book is, of course."
Lin Mao nodded, thinking about the possibilities. The idea of profiting off books seemed like a golden opportunity.
"So, if I write something compelling..... I could make a lot of money?" he asked aloud.
The young man simply shrugged. "It's all about demand and creativity. If people want it, they will pay for it."
Lin Mao's smirk grew wider as a plan began to form in his mind.
"I can copy the books I have read from back on Earth... make some slight adjustments... and then sell them here for a fortune."
He leaned back, smiling smugly. I really am a genius.
He crossed his arms, "Why should I choose you? What makes you so special? You better give me some dope ass reasons," he said, trying to sound as if he were a businessman negotiating a major deal.
The young man chuckled, unfazed by Lin Mao's challenge.
"Nice, I like your attitude. Let's get to the business then," he said, gesturing toward a low table in the center of the room.
Without missing any time, both of them made their way over and sat down, facing each other.
Their eyes locked, each one sizing up the other as if they were strategizing over the conquest of a kingdom.
The young man spoke first. "You see, this place isn't just about selling books, it's about connections. Hidden Scholar has the best network in the entire region. We have scholars, influential people, and even royals who come here seeking something... unique. We don't just sell books, we sell influence, prestige, and access."
Lin Mao raised an eyebrow, curious but still cautious. "Go on."
"We also offer complete anonymity," the young man continued, leaning forward slightly.
"Once your books are published here, they will be distributed far and wide. If you want to keep your identity hidden, no one will ever know who you are. But if you decide to go public with it, the fame, the recognition, and the wealth could be yours. You would have the entire market at your fingertips."
Lin Mao leaned in, his fingers tapping the table thoughtfully.
"Sounds promising, but how can I be sure I won't be getting ripped off? I'm no fool."
The young man smiled knowingly. "I like that you're cautious. That's why we have a deal in place."
"Deal, huh? Let's hear what the deal is about."
The young man turned serious. "Our books have a higher demand and higher selling rate than anything out there. If you partner with us, we will publish your books with our own investment. We will make multiple copies, distribute them widely, and 70 percent of the profit will go to you. What more do you need when we're investing in you?"
Lin Mao sat back, contemplating the offer. It seemed like a solid deal. The young man's confidence was convincing, and the numbers were appealing.
Seventy percent of the profit for doing what? Writing a few books, maybe even copying some from Earth?
He grinned. "Alright, you have got yourself a deal. But know this," Lin Mao said, his voice taking on a more serious tone.
"I don't work with just anyone. Make sure you are able to back up your promises, or we'll have a problem."
The young man smiled. "You won't regret it, I promise. Welcome to Hidden Scholar."
He then brought out a thick paper and passed it to Lin Mao. "Here," he said, "put your fingerprint here."
Lin Mao did as he was told and pressed his finger on the paper, leaving a dark blue mark that sealed the deal.
After it was done, they both shook hands and Lin Mao left the shop.
Once outside, he took a deep breath. He glanced at the market and smirked to himself.
"Imagine transmigrating into a Chinese fantasy world… and ending up as an erotica writer."
He chuckled, shaking his head. "Fate is mysterious, is it not?"
With the deal done, he made his way back to Sky Moon Sect.
"Let's see what this sect has to offer."
He tucked his hands behind his back and roamed around the sect curiously.