Earth's Greatest Magus
Earth's Greatest Magus - Chapter 1953: Opening Day

In just one short week, the Merlin shop emerged as a prominent establishment on the bustling streets of Golden City. Positioned in a premium building at the crossroads between the main market street and the iconic Golden Pavilion, the shop's strategic location attracted a steady influx of customers. Remarkably, the establishment achieved this without the support of any major factions, a testament to the appeal of its offerings.

Cedric, with his expertise, had curated a collection of a dozen popular medium-grade items within the shop. Additionally, Karin had contributed a few high-grade products to add diversity to the shop's inventory. Despite these impressive contributions, the undeniable stars of the show remained the [180 Celestials Meridians Pill] and the [Celestial Booster Pill].

In a strategic marketing move, Tessa organized auctions for dozens of each pill to generate excitement and anticipation among potential buyers. The buzz surrounding these auctions reached a fever pitch, setting the stage for the grand opening of the Merlin shop.

As the doors swung open, a flood of eager customers queued up, their anticipation palpable. Within the first three hours, the initial batch of 80 [180 Celestials Meridians Pill] and 500 [Celestial Booster Pill] had completely sold out. The success exceeded all expectations, turning the shop into a bustling hub of activity. The air was filled with a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction as the products gained rapid popularity among the denizens of Golden City.

"Please come again tomorrow; we will have more stock ready by then," Karin expressed apologetically. Meanwhile, Aeon, bustling with energy, directed half a dozen staff to actively promote the other items. "Do not let them leave without buying something," he urged passionately, orchestrating the shop's bustling atmosphere.

Observing this scene from the back, Emery couldn't help but feel a mixture of relief and satisfaction. Beside him, Cedric couldn't contain his excitement. "Aaah, it's finished already! We should have made more! Or increased the price!"

Emery, upon hearing Cedric's suggestion, could only heave a sigh. While the [180 Celestials Meridians Pill] wasn't a legendary elixir, crafting each one required his complete concentration and energy. Even without taking breaks, Emery could only manage around 20 attempts daily, resulting in a successful dozen pills each day.

As for pricing, Emery entrusted the decision to Tessa, who had been instrumental in testing the markets beforehand.

[180 celestials meridians pill]

[Tier 6, originality 2]

[Selling price: 1,5 million spirit stones]

[Average Cost of productions: 450,000 spirit stones]

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[Celestial booster pill]

[Tier 6]

[Selling price: 85,000]

[Average Cost of productions: 40,000 spirit stones]

"Congratulations! Your opening sales came to a total of 162,5 million spirit stones," Tessa exclaimed excitedly. However, the joy was tempered by the revelation of taxes – a 15% apothecary center tax and a 10% city tax on the goods sold within the city.

Additionally, there was a hefty production cost of 51 million spirit stones. After all deductions, Emery's total profits amounted to 71,5 million spirit stones. This figure didn't account for the share he needed to allocate to Karin and Cedric for their contributions to pill-making.

Emery couldn't help but release a sigh at the substantial production cost and tax deductions, but realizing that 71,5 million spirit stones in a week was still a significant achievement, he found some solace.

Amidst the financial assessment, Tessa added another layer of information, "This total sales also makes you eligible to apply for the honorary master title."

Emery, initially indifferent to titles and honors, preferred to spend his time focusing on concocting more products or creating new recipes. However, his interest was suddenly piqued when he learned that the honorary title would grant him an extra 5% tax cut. Without hesitation, he changed his stance and eagerly inquired, "So, what do I have to do to be eligible?"

Cedric elaborated on the requirements for obtaining the honorary master title. In addition to achieving a position in the top ten sales per month, Emery needed to accept three special jobs from the apothecary institutes. Furthermore, to retain the title, he had to maintain a certain level of sales or take on additional extra jobs.

Naturally, Emery was curious about the nature of these jobs. Cedric explained, "Mostly making high-grade products, one too challenging, unprofitable, or specifically requested by the magus alliance."

Considering the potential variety and challenge these jobs might bring, Emery saw them as a refreshing change from the repetitive process of making the same potions everyday. Eager to diversify his experiences, he planned to undertake these jobs as soon as possible.

However, on that particular day, Tessa insisted that Emery devote his attention to the shop. It was the opening day, and Emery needed to familiarize himself with the prominent figures in Golden City. Establishing connections with key individuals would undoubtedly contribute to the shop's success and Emery's integration into the city's business network.

The success of the Merlin shop's opening reached the ears of various factions, attracting representatives from significant powers. Notable figures, including delegates from the Houten and Croft families, paid visits to extend their congratulations. Victoria Qin, representing the Qin family, came personally to convey her wishes.

"Master Emery, congratulations... if you have time for discussion..."

However, the Qin heiress found herself somewhat overlooked as Emery's attention shifted abruptly. Friends from Terra City, represented by Magus Silica, and Zodiac City, represented by Magus Sienna, arrived, accompanied by Gerri, who immediately captured Emery's attention. The Violet Flame exclaimed with surprise, "Wow! I almost missed this! Why used different name anyway?!"

The Qin heiress's presence totally forgotten when Emery's most anticipated guest, Klea, made her entrance. Over two weeks of separation melted away as the Egyptian queen embraced him passionately. "Amazing," she remarked, surveying the shop. "You managed to do this in two weeks; I cant wait to see what you could accomplish in two years."

As noon approached, the Merlin shop resonated with the joyous celebration of Emery's friends and allies, each raising a toast to the milestones achieved by Emery and the Earth factions. The atmosphere was filled with camaraderie and shared triumphs.