Chapter 46 - Aiming Higher
Chapter 46 - Aiming Higher
Arthur and Claudina departed the restaurant as night reached its peak. Taking a leisurely walk along
the cobblestone streets of the beach, they observed the thin layer of ice slowly melting away. Winter
was coming to a close, and barely any snow had fallen, revealing the true nature of the buildings and
trees.
The luminous moon illuminated the earth, lending a serene light that made Claudina's features seem
even softer in the moonlight and the luminescence of the nearby shops and structures.
The two of them appeared to be walking alone together. However, in actuality, several bodyguards had
been strategically placed at the front and back of their procession, ensuring that it seemed as though
they were privately enjoying their evening.
The onlookers, awestruck by Claudina's beauty, could only gaze upon her from a distance. Her snow-
white complexion and perfect features caused a shiver to run down the spines of all who beheld her.
Claudina gazed to the left, her eyes settling on Arthur's face, which looked tranquil and charismatic.
She smiled softly and let out a gentle chuckle.
"I feel tonight is the most treasured night of my life," she proclaimed.
“Could it be because we are on the most beautiful island in this city, situated in the middle of this
magnificent lake?”
"That may be part of it," Claudina said slowly, pausing for a few moments. "But, what matters more to
me is… I have dreamed of being able to share that song with someone special, and I never expected
you to be able to sing and even play the piano so effortlessly."
Arthur smiled warmly at Claudina's words. He had indeed spent forty of his VIP points for the
extravagant show earlier, a hefty price for such skills, but he had also earned a lot since he had first
encountered her.
Arthur had acquired one hundred VIP points from the orphanage children at her auction event, got
another thirty more when he saved her, and an additional sixty at her solo concert. With a total of one
hundred and ninety VIP points, for some inexplicable reason, Arthur felt immensely gratified at the
progress he had made since he had met Claudina.
Arthur and Claudina slowly walked closer together. She was a bit more hesitant than Edna, who often
took the initiative to clasp Arthur's arm. Walking alone with a man was a huge step for her, who had
never done something like this before.
"Have you ever performed in front of many people, Arthur?" she asked, her voice curious.
"You mean concerts like the ones you do?" he said, his brow furrowing slightly.
“Huhum.” She hummed in response, her tone soft.
Arthur chuckled lightly, shaking his head. "I've never even thought of doing that."
"Are you serious?" she said, her eyes widening in disbelief. "You have never performed in front of a
crowd with talent as great as you? Your singing is absolutely incredible, and your piano playing is just
so beautiful. Every time I hear you tap the keys, it sends goosebumps down my spine and it really fits
my imagination of the song that I wrote." she explained, her voice alive with enthusiasm.
"Would you like to do a concert with me?" Claudina asked, her tone hopeful.
"A concert? With you?"
Arthur paused and thoughtfully contemplated Claudina's proposal. He had never even imagined doing
something as daring as performing in front of a large crowd. When he had come into his newfound
System, his initial instinct was to indulge himself with lavish meals and luxurious items that had
previously been beyond his reach.
As time passes, Arthur feels the need to share his joy with more people who he believes deserve it.
Hence, he decides to construct a vast business empire to have control over various things in the world,
including providing jobs to the less fortunate.
When Claudina proposes to him that they perform a concert together, Arthur feels like he has been
given a new reason to savor life. He thinks to himself, "Why shouldn't I take advantage of the System I
have to bring more delight to people?"
He asked softly yet inquisitively, "If we have a music concert together, will the audience be able to feel
joy through our performance?"
Claudina replied quietly, "Hmmm..." Her voice increased in intensity, "You know what it feels like when
people hear us singing and they are filled with happiness or even cry. I can't deny that it is one of the
most incredible feelings in life. I'm sure you can give that to many people."
Claudina nodded, providing a silent confirmation of her words.
"Someone," Claudina continued confidently, "someone as talented as you, Arthur, should be celebrated
by many. With your beautiful singing and proficient piano playing, you will become a crowd favorite in
no time. Furthermore, your skill in performing dangerous stunts will endear you to the masses. Not to
mention, your respectful words and unbiased behavior towards everyone, regardless of their social
class or wealth, will easily earn you the respect of many."
Claudina nodded rapidly and repeatedly. "I can't wait for that time to come," she said, then paused for a
moment. "And I'd be happy to do what I can to help you out and get you noticed, Arthur, if you don't
mind me using my reputation." She spoke with sincerity. Her eyes lit up with admiration for him.
She was certain that he was destined for greatness, and that she could provide the best support for
him in paving his way to success.
"My friends at the orphanage send their warmest greetings," she said softly, her voice tinged with joy
and her face beaming a beautiful smile. "They can't believe the things they have received; they are all
so excited to meet you and thank you in person."
Arthur inhaled deeply and then smiled at Claudina. "You know," he began, trying to sound casual, "I
don't think singing in front of an audience is such a bad idea. I could start out as a newcomer and
perhaps I'll give it a go on this island once I manage to acquire it for myself." He said confidently, even
though what he was suggesting was far from trivial.
“And…” He continued, his voice full of excitement, "I will go to the orphanage where your friends are
and meet them, perhaps wearing a mask to conceal my identity for the time being."
"Really?" Claudina's face beamed with joy as she stepped closer to Arthur, and before she could
realize it, she had already wrapped her arms around him. "Thanks, Arthur!"
Arthur tenderly patted Claudina's shoulder, but she was too embarrassed to show any response, and
her cheeks flushed. She quickly stepped back, avoiding eye contact. "Oh my god, what have I done,"
she whispered to herself.