The whole live stream with only one viewer, “Rogue Young Master,” was so painfully awkward but also kind of endearing. I could literally feel Jiang Nan’s embarrassment when she first started selling to him one-on-one. But the way she calls him “Little Pi Classmate” instead of “bro” or something flirty is refreshing – it’s genuine and not cringey. The fact that she actually has a test report ready to explain the toothpaste ingredients shows she’s not just some random seller; she puts in effort. That little detail made me like her more.
After reading through 22 chapters of this novel, I find myself increasingly frustrated with the direction the plot has taken. The main character (MC) recently ventured out to Home Depot, which could have been an exciting opportunity for character development and world-building. However, instead of encountering fresh and compelling allies, he has seemingly picked up a generic, whiny brat who serves as nothing more than a stereotypical hanger-on. This character's backstory, like so many others in the genre, feels like a dime a dozen—yet another apocalyptic survivor whose tale lacks originality and depth. It’s disappointing to see the potential for dynamic interactions between characters being squandered on such clichéd tropes. Instead of fleshing out the MC's journey with rich, multifaceted characters that could challenge and evolve him, it seems that the author opted for a safer, more predictable route by introducing a sidekick who brings little value to the story. My hope was to see a more creative approach, perhaps a companion with unique skills or a complex background that could add nuance to the unfolding narrative. The lack of innovation in character development is becoming a glaring issue as I continue reading. I sincerely wish the author would take a moment to reconsider the choices made for the characters and plot progression. Engaging narratives thrive on unexpected partnerships and intricate backstories that reflect the harsh realities of their world, and I believe this story has the potential to elevate itself if it ventures beyond the tried-and-true conventions of the genre.
I felt so bad for Zashuria when she tried to refuse the offer by claiming she’s unworthy, and the Princess immediately counterplays her by saying she knows Zashuria wanted to be a royal court maid. That moment where she realizes her own throwaway line has been weaponized against her is so crushing. And then the king approves instantly? The way the maid says “It depends on His Majesty the King” with that deadpan tone just amplifies the hopelessness. The whole sequence is tense but also darkly comedic because you can’t help but admire how thoroughly she’s outmaneuvered.
The countdown to the male/female leads is a great source of tension. She has three years to get strong enough to not be turned into a belt. Even though the story is a comedy, that looming catastrophe keeps the stakes high. Every chapter she is just building her net worth, waiting for the market to crash.