Several days passed in the blink of an eye.

Ethan's grape brick strategy was a great success.

On the market, several grape brick specialty shops have opened, including stores from the three major families and others following the favorable trend.

Ethan welcomed all comers since this was legitimate business, and it couldn't be stopped. Selling grape bricks also contributed to the growth of his true name, 'The Researcher and Changer of Fine Wine.'

In just a few days, it has gradually developed towards a deep purple, and the range and quality of wine it can influence and change are also increasing.

Moreover, Ethan still holds a monopoly on grape brick technology for the short term; he's the only supplier.

Even if someone cracks the method later, he still holds a significant advantage. He has the true name and a chemical genius like Walter, ensuring his technology will only continue to innovate.

His grape bricks will only become cheaper and better in quality, leaving no one in the market able to compete with him.

Finally, there's a triple win.

Their bootleg liquor is starting to sell rapidly again.

The source of pollution has disappeared, and no matter how external forces advertise, the unyielding desire for alcohol overshadows everything else as long as it isn't lethal.

Especially since many have already tasted the exquisite grape bricks.

The desire for authentic wine has become even greater.

The bootleg liquor's great ship finally sails again.

To offset the losses, all liquor prices are revised upward, but those thirsty for alcohol couldn't care less and just buy, buy, buy.

There have been two consecutive meetings recently, and everyone was smiling brightly.

Even George, whose mood had been gloomy since Ethan cut off his hand, couldn't suppress his smile these past two days.

He again apologized and admitted his mistake to Ethan, hoping Ethan would forgive him.

Because he wanted to buy more grape bricks.

What he stockpiled and pre-ordered was completely outstripped by the sales speed.

Ethan raised the price and sold to him.

Meanwhile, Ethan increasingly frequented Sofia's house these days.

He was painting her portrait, chatting about art and other things.

Since Ned 'controlled' him last time, he seems to fully trust Ethan now and doesn't prevent Sofia from meeting him. Sometimes, Ned would join their chats while at home.

On this afternoon, Ethan was painting in Sofia's garden again.

Sofia's portrait was almost finished, which satisfied her greatly. She handed Ethan a towel to wipe his hands, getting very close, exuding a jasmine-like fragrance, and was quite affectionate.

"The painting is really nice, better than me."

"Of course, you are more beautiful; otherwise, how could such a reflection exist?" Ethan subtly distanced himself.

Because he saw Anya peering over secretly through the reception room's glass window.

"Have some tea, you've worked hard," Sofia handed Ethan some black tea and then, recalling something, said, "Oh right, the charity dinner is starting soon, Ethan, what art piece have you prepared?"

"It's a secret for now." Ethan took a sip of tea and smiled.

"Annoying."

The two chatted for a while longer till Ned came.

Ned once again sent his daughter off to fetch some pastries, and then seemingly casually mentioned, "Ethan, at the charity dinner, the City Hall might announce the Saint Kuanti rebuilding plan. If you have funds available, you might want to participate; after all, it's also part of the charity."

Ultimately, the charity dinner was spearheaded by City Hall, with artists relegated to supporting roles.

The charity dinner was happening the next day, with many attendees expected.

City Hall officials, artists, legal professionals, big businessmen, and even reportedly Church members.

Cautiously acknowledging Ned's nod, Ethan nodded silently.

This is part of the necessary act.

Currently, externally, Ned greatly appreciates Ethan's image as a young man.

Ethan must play along.

Investing in Saint Kuanti's rebuilding suited Ethan perfectly.

Recently, Solomon granted him a special weapons authorization, and Ethan wanted to open a weapons factory, just needing a plot of land.

Land in Winster is hard to acquire, even less so for building a weapons factory.

If he expands to Saint Kuanti, there are fewer considerations, and he could gain a better reputation for philanthropy.

The next day arrived quickly.

In the afternoon, Ethan packed the painting intended for charity auction and began his portraiture of Anya.

This was Ethan's suggestion at the end of the previous day.

Because he noticed Anya's hostile gaze.

To his surprise, Anya added another demand: "Nine more paintings."

"What?"

"You need to paint nine more for me."

Ethan agreed.

He had almost finished the previous portraits of Anya, but at this point, he dared not delay, promptly refining them with more delicate brushwork.

As the evening fell, snow descended again.

Tonight, Ethan wore a very formal all-black suit, with a white rose in the lapel, conveying a sense of mourning.

After all, tonight's theme was to support the shattered Saint Kuanti.

Sitting in the car heading to the dinner, watching the snow outside the window, Ethan unknowingly drifted into sleep.

And he dreamt.

In the dream, he arrived at Saint Kuanti.

Walking on the shattered streets, suddenly, a holy and warm figure began to rise slowly from the earth.

That person was indeed Saint Kuanti.

He knelt again at Ethan's feet, began to pray before him.

"Great Lord, I beseech you to save this broken city, rescue its scattered people, let your light encompass this place, let life flourish again, I shall serve you eternally, obey your word, protect your kingdom!"

What could Ethan do but agree?

This was a genuine, pure Saint.

"I accept your plea."

The next moment, Ethan awoke.

Feeling the residual warmth in his hands, he realized this probably wasn't just a dream, but the truth.

Saint Kuanti had just called to him, once more petitioning him.

This meant the saint hadn't completely vanished, still existing within Saint Kuanti.

Moreover, it seems like he has revived and can find Ethan through dream-like visions.

If this were true, then Ethan certainly should invest in Saint Kuanti.

As Saint Kuanti advised, it would be his domain.

And Saint Kuanti would safeguard it.

A guardian spirit could easily suppress several King of Winster-level beings.

The car then arrived at the venue for the dinner.

Beihai Star.

As the best hotel in Winster, it's indeed the perfect venue for such events.

Upon arrival, the entry was already cordoned off, as Beihai Star stopped normal business for the day, rented out solely for the charity dinner.

Ethan got out of the car and presented his invitation, smoothly entering the venue.

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