Chapter 69: Exchange Center

Lucas sat in his room, his thoughts swirling with possibilities for his next move. He knew that his strategy needed to evolve, and the idea of creating a golem to serve as one of his clones was beginning to take form in his mind.

But there were complications. Despite having a divine mask specialized in forging, he lacked both the necessary materials and the blueprint to bring the golem to life.

[Of course, you're stuck,] the system chimed in, its voice dripping with mockery. [You've got points burning a hole in your pocket, and here you are, moping like a lost puppy. Why don't you just go to the exchange center and get what you need?]

Lucas frowned at the system's tone, but he couldn't deny the practicality of the suggestion. "And what makes you so sure they'll have what I need?" he asked, his voice edged with skepticism.

The system practically scoffed. [This is the Celestial Academy, you know—the best academy in the entire realm. Do you think they wouldn't have top-tier materials and blueprints in abundance? Honestly, Lucas, sometimes I wonder how you've made it this far.] Sёarᴄh the NôᴠelFirё.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

A smirk tugged at the corner of Lucas's mouth, the system's arrogance oddly motivating. "Alright, point taken," he muttered, more to himself than to the system. Without wasting another second, he reached for the Zeus mask, slipping it on with practiced ease.

In an instant, Lucas transformed into Zeus, his entire demeanor shifting with the change. Zeus moved quickly and quietly, slipping out of the dormitory with the grace and speed of a shadow. He cast a quick glance back to ensure Lucy was still sound asleep—she hadn't stirred.

[She's out like a light. Now, let's not dawdle, shall we?] the system interjected, its tone laced with impatience.

Zeus ignored the jab, focusing on the task at hand. The Celestial Academy, being the most prestigious institution in the realm, had facilities that operated around the clock.

Zeus moved swiftly through the dimly lit corridors, his steps silent but purposeful, making his way to the exchange center.

[Finally, some action. Let's see if you can handle a little shopping without getting lost,] the system taunted, its voice full of smug amusement.

Zeus just rolled his eyes beneath the mask, pushing open the door to the exchange center with a sense of resolve. He was here to get what he needed, and no snarky system was going to slow him down.

Upon arriving at the exchange center, Zeus strode up to the clerk with a commanding presence, his voice calm but assertive. "I need materials and blueprints for a golem," he declared, cutting straight to the point.

The clerk glanced up, curiosity sparking in his eyes. "What kind of blueprint are you looking for?" he asked, leaning forward slightly. "We have a wide variety available, depending on your needs."

Zeus paused for a moment, weighing his options. "What's the cost for a one-star golem blueprint?"

The clerk nodded, his expression professional. "For a one-star blueprint, the price is 1 point. If you're looking for something more advanced, a two-star blueprint will cost you 10 points."

[Why settle for one when you can have them all?] the system chimed in, its tone dripping with smug confidence. [Just buy as many one-star blueprints as possible. You can always combine them later to create something far superior.]

A smirk played on Zeus's lips, the system's arrogance feeding his own confidence. "How many one-star blueprints do you have in stock?"

The clerk quickly scanned the inventory, then looked back at Zeus. "We currently have 10 one-star golem blueprints available."

"Perfect," Zeus replied without a moment's hesitation. "I'll take all of them. And while you're at it, I'll need the best material set you have for constructing a one-star golem."

The clerk's eyes gleamed with a hint of admiration. "Certainly. The best one-star tier material set includes Black Iron and a one-star tier golem core. That'll set you back 50 points."

The clerk paused for a moment to calculate the total, then added, "That brings your total to 60 points."

Zeus couldn't help but feel a surge of satisfaction. He had earned 70 points from his recent mission, leaving him with just enough to make this significant purchase. Without a second thought, he handed over the points, his movements confident and assured.

[See? I told you this was the smart move,] the system crowed, its tone a mix of pride and condescension. [With these materials, you'll be able to create something truly impressive—assuming you don't mess it up, of course.]

Zeus ignored the jab, watching as the clerk efficiently packed the blueprints and materials. The clerk handed the packages over with a respectful nod. "Here you go, and thank you for your patronage."

Zeus, pleased with the smooth transaction, decided to inquire further. "Is there an open smithy I can use?" His voice was steady, already planning his next move.

The clerk responded promptly, clearly accustomed to such requests. "For outer disciples, there are three options available: a one-star smithy, a two-star smithy, and a three-star smithy. The one-star smithy costs 1 point for 10 hours, while the two-star smithy is 10 points for the same duration."

[Obviously, you're not going to waste your time in a one-star smithy, right?] the system sneered, its tone dripping with disdain. [You need quality, not scraps. Don't embarrass yourself by going cheap now.]

Zeus didn't need the system's mocking reminder to know the value of using higher-quality facilities. He made his decision without hesitation. "I'll rent the two-star smithy."

The clerk quickly produced a small, polished card, handing it over with a practiced efficiency. "This card grants you access to the two-star smithy. Your 10 hours will begin as soon as you enter, and after that, the smithy will automatically shut down, and the card will disappear."

"Understood," Zeus replied, taking the card with a nod. "Thanks for the information."

The clerk offered a courteous smile, nodding in return. "Good luck with your work," he said, watching Zeus with a mixture of respect and curiosity as he turned to leave.

As Zeus walked away from the exchange center, the system couldn't resist adding its two cents. [I have to admit, they run a tight ship here. Even the clerks are on point. Just don't screw up now that you've got everything you need.]

Zeus smirked, knowing the system's taunts were its way of pushing him to excel. "As expected of the best academy," he thought, appreciating the high level of professionalism. "Everyone here knows their role and plays it well."

With everything in hand, Zeus headed toward the smithy, his mind already racing with plans for the creation of his first golem clone. He was ready to take on this next challenge, confident in his abilities and the tools now at his disposal.