Chapter 97: The Guide

Early the next morning, the secondhand goods auction held on Saturday became the center of public discussion.

The economy was bleak, unemployment high, yet consumption levels would neither fall nor could fall, leaving many household needs permanently stuck in planning.

Previously, Sabin City and the entire Federation had places for secondhand trade—for example, in downtown alleys where people cheaply dealt in stolen goods, mostly clothes.

Antique shops often accepted relatively new secondhand items. Besides antiques stores, there were small shops recycling used electronics and genuine pawnshops.

But pawnshops in the Baylor Federation differed from those elsewhere—they dealt only in luxury goods, showing no interest in low-value trades worth only a few Sols.

Thus, the secondhand goods trading was still semi-deserted; few recognized its wealth potential, which Lynch capitalized on.

An auction of this scale, organized by Lynch, was unprecedented in Federation history, instantly capturing public attention.

Two main factors drew interest.

First, whether Lynch’s auction truly offered everything as claimed in the newspapers—complete variety and low prices.

Second, the transaction volume nearly reached 500,000 Sols.

This sum was taxable; Lynch openly disclosed accurate information to the press and tax authorities, shocking Sabin’s citizens.

Achieving such sales in one afternoon raised questions about the quantity and value of goods sold.

Despite speculation, the fact remained: Lynch’s Interstellar Trading Company and this secondhand auction had become a sensation, boosting the mayor’s popularity as well.

The mayor moved their originally scheduled lunch from the day after tomorrow to Sunday noon.

Though he usually spent weekends with family, Lynch’s surprise forced him to set aside time for these matters.

They met in a private venue—rural to Federation core areas were filled with such discreet locations facilitating confidential discussions.

It was a simple lunch; Lynch arrived ten minutes early, the mayor soon followed.

The mayor was in his forties, with some gray hair, looking worn from stress.

He was somewhat stocky but not fat, about five feet seven inches—average height for the era.

His demeanor was both stern and affable.

Introduced by Ferrell, they exchanged greetings and considered themselves acquainted.

Ferrell deliberately monitored the kitchen, leaving space for the two men.

The mayor pulled out a cloth pouch containing a fine smoking pipe with golden wood grain, exuding luxury.

“Mind if I?” he asked. Lynch shook his head. The mayor packed tobacco, lit it with a torch, and took two puffs, visibly relaxing.

“I like this, though some say it’s unhealthy…” he smiled, then shifted the topic to yesterday’s events.

“I was supposed to spend time with my kids, but saw the news this morning—honestly, I was shocked.”

“Half a million in sales—you may have made history!” The mayor praised generously. After the news broke, his aides gathered in his study to discuss the auction.

They estimated the 500,000 Sols equated to meeting the material needs of at least one million Sols’ worth in lower-class society.

Distributed evenly, one million Sols could supply 10,000 households’ short-term needs—an impressive figure.

With proper policies and guidance, this auction, driven by City Hall and the mayor, greatly fulfilled lower-class citizens’ pursuit of a better life and eased potential social tensions—a notable achievement.

Neither the mayor nor his aides expected Lynch’s success. While other issues could be delayed, those affecting their core interests required immediate action.

Lynch humbly credited Sabin’s free market environment and supportive local policies, especially praising the mayor’s help.

His composed flattery pleased the mayor, who had encountered many shameless businessmen but found Lynch genuinely impressive—a clever speaker.

This was why the mayor advanced their meeting—he planned to promote Lynch’s business as a municipal achievement, attracting scrutiny from various parties.

Their messages had to align to avoid scandals.

The mayor initially expected Lynch to be difficult, assuming youth made one self-centered, but Lynch’s maturity surprised him; he didn’t seem like an ordinary kid.

Suddenly elevated from bystander to key player, the mayor felt a slight, insignificant pang of guilt.

Holding his pipe, he said knowingly, “I heard you plan to expand statewide?”

Lynch nodded calmly. “Inspired by your leadership, I believe we should overcome geographic limits and take on greater social responsibility. Any worthwhile cause should be pursued.”

“Not only will I sell secondhand goods, but also launch large-scale statewide recycling of unused items. Things useless to some can matter to others.”

“Through specialized channels, we’ll meet material needs of lower classes without adding financial burdens.”

“Those in hardship can sell secondhand items to relieve family finances, improving millions of households’ futures.”

“I truly believe in this!”

The mayor nodded throughout, finding Lynch’s ideas inspiring. If realized, this would be a highlight of his tenure.

Smiling warmly, he said, “Your ideas are excellent. I spoke with the governor about how interesting young people’s views are. If possible, I’ll recommend you…”

He paused, then asked pointedly, “What do you think of the Federation Progressive Party?”

Lynch responded enthusiastically, “It’s a very excellent party…”