Reincarnated With The Degenerate System

I raised a hand slightly, stopping the reporter before he could push further.

"Checkered Sword Maiden? Personally? I've never met her, but I do know her face. I mean… who here hasn't seen her picture?" I let a small smile slip.

"She's practically everywhere—posters, billboards… She's the poster Seeker of the city. And let's be real—she's not just powerful, she's also easy on the eyes. You would probably trip over a deadly snake just to catch a glimpse of her."

A few chuckles ran through the room, and many nodded in agreement. Even some of the more serious reporters allowed faint smiles.

I leaned slightly on the mic, lowering my voice.

"As for Hai-Min, I know her from the Tower Echo—well, not directly. She was saved by my close friend and associate, Amanda, who runs a training center. Now, she's working there."

"By the way, her training center is directly affiliated with DEGEN Guild. So if you decide to join us…" I winked at the camera, letting my charm do the rest, "…you would get 50% off and a free oven."

The question had been smoothly redirected, and I could feel the conversation firmly back under my control.

Questions kept coming, mostly about the inner workings of DEGEN Guild—how we trained Seekers, our mission, and what set us apart from other guilds.

I answered them steadily, keeping my tone confident but approachable, letting the audience feel they were getting a real glimpse behind the curtain.

Then a hand shot up near the front. I noticed the camera rig immediately—it was a vlogger, bright lights and all, clearly trying to get the scoop for their online audience.

"Mr. Mercer," the vlogger said, grinning into the lens, "everyone's talking about you. Are you… already taken?"

A ripple of laughter ran through the room, some reporters raising eyebrows. I paused, letting the question hang for a beat, then smirked.

"I'm currently busy with all the guild stuff. But in the future… I'll think about it."

With that, the press conference came to a close. I straightened, letting a small smile linger.

DEGEN Guild's first public unveiling had gone smoothly, and I could already feel the gears turning in my head for the next move.

The event after the press conference were just as important as the event itself. I moved through the crowd, greeting old family friends, exchanging firm handshakes and polite smiles.

I stopped briefly by Master Tang. We didn't speak much—just a quiet nod and a subtle gesture from him about the secret mission he gave me. I returned a small smile, which was more than enough to show that I got everything under control.

Hayes, on the other hand, said he needed to leave the venue quickly due to business with the association.

Before heading out, he gave me a firm pat on the shoulder and a few words about my entertaining speech. He said he expected a lot from me.

With that, I made my way toward Lea's table. Her parents were seated elegantly, their eyes on me as I approached, measuring and assessing.

I offered a polite smile, keeping my posture confident as I prepared to engage them.

Mr. Blackwood had the typical CEO look—graying hair and a sharp suit—but unlike Daniel, he look kind and welcoming.

"Do you still remember me?" he asked.

"Of course, Uncle," I replied, sliding into the seat at their table.

"Good," he said, smiling. "The kid I remember back then… was more normal. You…" He paused, studying me for a moment. "You have a way with words, and you carry yourself far more maturely for your age."

I nodded, taking it as a compliment. "I've experienced a lot in life. Plus, before I could even enjoy my second chance, I was dragged from one incident to another. Honestly, I wanted to experience my youth more, but it seems fate had other plans for me."

Mr. Blackwood leaned back slightly. "It's sad, in a way, that you had to mature so quickly. But… it's not all bad. Those experiences shaped you. They built your character." He glanced at his daughter.

"Look at her—she still acts like a spoiled brat because we baby her too much."

"Dad!" Lea pouted, cheeks puffed out in indignation.

I chuckled lightly. "I think it's commendable that she was able to keep her innocence this long. It shows her parents protected her well."

Both Mr. and Mrs. Blackwood exchanged satisfied nods at my answer.

"Ace, you really are a well-spoken man. I'm sure your father would be proud to see you trying to continue the Mercer legacy in your own way—especially after the takeover that happened." He paused, his eyes squinting slightly.

"By the way… aren't you planning to investigate further? It's obvious there were parties involved who benefited from that fire."

I picked up a glass of water and took a sip—not because I was afraid to speak, but the earlier speech left my throat dry.

"I know, Uncle. But the people I'm suspecting are too powerful. I don't want to poke a hornet's nest unprepared."

My words were short, but he immediately understood, and didn't press for more.

"Ace, you should come with me for drinks sometime. I can introduce you to the JP Branch Manager here in the city. I'm sure they would love to talk business with you."

"Thanks, Uncle. I'll do that once I iron out all the small details of my guild,"

"Good mindset. I can see you have the mind of a businessman as well—laser-focused on your goals. Keep that up, and if you play your cards right and keep the right people close, you'll soon reach the level of the Phoenix Guild."

"I'll try my best."

We continued conversing. At one point, Lea leaned toward me and whispered, asking me out on a date—right there in front of her parents.

They just laughed and her mother gave me a pleading look. I couldn't refuse.

Afterward, I mingled with the other guests, and just like that, the entire event came to a close on a high note.

Or so I hope.

From the corner of my eyes, a figure stood just beyond the crowd, his gaze locked on me.