A delightful surprise after just over two days of release!

In the blink of an eye, it has been over two days since the book was officially published, and word has it that the performance is quite good. Why do I say "word has it"? Because my work has never performed well before, and I honestly don't know what qualifies as good or bad.

Just a moment ago, readers in the group mentioned that we have already hit 500 monthly votes and that it calls for a celebration. I am happy to oblige, so here is an extra chapter. It is not much, but it is the thought that counts.

As for whether 500 monthly votes is a lot, I cannot say for sure, but it certainly makes me very happy. I will spare you the clichés about being overwhelmed with joy or unable to contain my excitement—I am past the age for such sentimental displays. To put it plainly, I am genuinely happy.

Why am I happy? Because I used to be a reader myself before I started writing, and I always felt that those who occupied the rankings were truly talented individuals! Especially rankings based on reader votes—that is a true case of "many hands making light work." It is a sense of accomplishment, not just happiness.

This joy and sense of achievement come entirely from your support! In the old days, performers and writers relied on the appreciation of their audience; it is a long-standing tradition.

Those who sing well, write well, or act well do not always become famous or receive the applause they deserve. Why? Because they lack that support! Those who are popular, successful, and well-known are not necessarily better than others; they might even be inferior. I have never considered myself a writer; I am merely a storyteller.

So, I have been telling you a story, and so far, it seems to be going well enough—at least you are all still listening. You are applauding me with such vigor that it makes me all the more enthusiastic as I tell it. I thank you all from the bottom of my heart!

Furthermore, I have an additional task to attend to: I must not let the applause go to my head, lest I forget the story or lose my way. I must continue to tell it with the same spirit as before, and hopefully, none of you will notice a change. That is how I feel I can best live up to your applause and encouragement.

Alright, that is all for now. Any more and it would turn into a full chapter, which would mean charging you for it! I hope you understand if I have missed anything or failed to express myself perfectly. Your patience is greatly appreciated!