Arya was deep in thought, absorbing all this new knowledge.

"Interesting, right? There are many secrets in this world—some still undiscovered, and even I don't know all of them. But this is all the information I have," the attendant said.

"This was really helpful. Now, how can I earn money quickly and in large amounts?" Arya asked.

The attendant smirked. "You want to earn money? No problem. Didn't you just see Master Darian Zephyr return? He completed a task assigned by the Commerce of Merchants. If you're looking to make money, you can take on missions according to your rank. They're posted on that wall over there."

Arya turned his gaze to where people were gathered and saw a large board filled with mission listings.

"If you're interested in making money and don't plan on joining any other power, you can apply to become a Private Cultivator after reaching Level 31."

Arya was intrigued. "What are the benefits and restrictions of becoming a Private Cultivator for the alliance? And is it exclusive to the Commerce of Merchants, or does it apply to the entire alliance?"

"It's only related to the Commerce of Merchants," the attendant explained. "There are a few restrictions—you must remain unaffiliated with any faction or sect, and you must complete at least one mission per month or twelve missions per year. If an emergency or high-priority mission comes up and you're eligible, you must accept it. You're allowed one refusal, but beyond that, it's mandatory to complete at least two such missions."

"As for benefits," he continued, "aside from receiving higher rewards for Private Cultivator missions, you'll also get a 30% discount on all purchases from Commerce of Merchants stores—though auctions are excluded. For auctions, you get a 5% discount instead. Additionally, you'll have access to exclusive resources unavailable to normal or low-level cultivators."

"Thirty percent off all purchases? That's a huge advantage!" Arya said, surprised.

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"So, does joining as a Private Cultivator mean I have to cut ties with my family and friends?"

The attendant shook his head. "Who said that? We don't restrict personal relationships. However, you can't use your status or privileges to buy things for others. If you're caught doing so, you'll be heavily fined. Of course, we allow some flexibility—you can make occasional purchases for others, but too many will raise suspicion. If you want to buy something for someone else, you must apply for approval from higher-ups. If approved, you'll still receive your discount."

"That's an attractive offer," Arya admitted. "I was already considering joining the alliance, but since I'm not Level 31 yet, I'll have to put this on hold for now."

"That's fine. You can apply whenever you're ready. Anything else you need?"

"Yes, I'd like some information on the Weapon Smith profession."

"Hmm…" The attendant nodded. "Weapon Smiths specialize in molding and refining Seed Weapons. They can alter the evolution paths of Seed Weapons at lower levels, helping cultivators with weak or flawed weapons. They also refine, mold, and craft weapons from monster parts and natural treasures."

Arya absorbed the details carefully. The only thing left to ask about was the major powers in the city. Upon inquiring, he learned that aside from the three dominant forces—the Finlet Academy, the Commerce of Merchants' branch, and the Pill and Alchemist Association—there were three lesser but still notable powers:

1. The Zephyr Family

2. The Asgar Family

3. The Malrik Association – a mercenary group formed by a powerful cultivator.

After gathering all the information he needed, Arya checked his belongings and realized he had only seven pink coins left. Spending all his money had been painful, but necessary.

Now, it was time to earn.

He turned toward the mission board, resisting the temptation to browse the main shop since he couldn't afford anything. As he approached, he overheard cultivators discussing missions.

"Elite missions offer extra rewards—they're the fastest way to get rich!" one person said.

"Yeah, but they're insanely difficult," another replied.

Arya focused on the mission board, which was divided into four sections:

1. Unranked Missions – 7 available

2. Bronze Rank Missions – 8 available

3. Silver Rank Missions – 4 available (2 already accepted)

4. Gold Rank Missions – 2 available, but untouched for a long time

A notice at the top stated that each person could only accept one mission at a time.

The Gold Rank Missions were particularly interesting, but no one had taken them. It made sense—only Level 51 cultivators could accept them, and in this low-level city, that was rare. Even the strongest person here, the principal of Finlet Academy, was only Level 51.