HLM -Chapter 1142 New Book Launch

“…We’ve carefully considered every architectural detail. All key points of the school’s wooden framework will use metal fasteners and diagonal bracing,” Bogert explained.

Listening to him, Wang Bo asked, “The design plan mentions that the school can withstand earthquakes below magnitude 7?”

Bogert nodded. “Yes. All our designs prioritize ‘safety.’ It’s not just earthquake resistance—our structures can also withstand strong winds and heavy rain. For earthquakes below magnitude 7 and storms below magnitude 9, the buildings will remain intact.”

His assistant added, “At most, minor damage may occur to non-essential parts inside, such as slight deformation of door frames, broken glass, or cracked tiles. But rest assured, the main functional structures—like living spaces and escape routes—will remain unaffected.”

Wang Bo nodded and looked at Charlie, Bowen, and Hani beside him.

Hani asked, “As far as I know, large commercial buildings in New Zealand typically use mature prefabricated reinforced concrete structures, which give shopping malls, office buildings, and other densely populated structures tremendous load-bearing capacity and excellent earthquake resistance.”

Bogert nodded. “That’s true, but that’s just the current mainstream approach. Our design is about to lead the next trend in architecture.”

“Your concern must be about durability. I can assure you, wooden buildings aren’t necessarily fragile. For large structures like schools, using cement and concrete isn’t always cost-effective.”

“Perhaps you know, sir, that for large reinforced concrete buildings, the foundation often includes large cushioning devices. The entire building may ‘stand’ on rubber pads or large springs to avoid direct contact with the foundation.”

“This design ensures that when lateral seismic waves hit, the building doesn’t shake with the ground, reducing the risk of structural collapse.”

“Of course, this design approach increases construction costs, at least doubling them. Our Baroque-style buildings use this method, but Mr. Mayor, your priority is safety and practicality, so Option A is absolutely the most suitable.”

Bogert explained candidly and confidently.

“Additionally, beyond what I’ve described, seismic design is a precise and systematic science with construction standards. It considers many factors, all detailed in the design plan.”

After a two-hour presentation, Wang Bo nodded in approval.

Bogert smiled and shook his hand. The plan alone was worth one million; since it was delivered three days early, the total came to 1.3 million. Considering the design firm practically gave it their all, this wasn’t much.

A good design plan may cost a lot upfront, but it can save much more during construction.

The plan was then faxed to Professor Sandra, Alexander, and others as a gift from the town to Lincoln University, showing their sincerity.

The second batch of books arrived—100,000 copies—filling another three-story building. Wang Bo also sent photos and materials to the university.

In short, to secure Lincoln University’s branch, Sunset Town was pulling out all the stops.

With the library, the town suddenly gained a cultural atmosphere.

Previously, people on the streets held drinks or food, but now many, especially locals, carried books—either to borrow or return—showing a significant increase in reading.

In mid-month, Hill approached him: “Boss, I’d like to hold a book signing at the library.”

Wang Bo said, “Buddy, your influence is unparalleled; you’re a highly successful author. But hasn’t everyone in town already bought your books?”

He wasn’t just guessing—the library entrance displayed a full shelf of Deadly Notes, yet few borrowed them. Not because people weren’t interested, but because most had already read or owned the book.

Hill smiled. “I’m not aiming to sell books, just to promote my new one.”

Wang Bo asked excitedly, “You have a new book? What’s it called?”

Hill replied, “It’s a fantasy work, similar in style to The Lord of the Rings but different. I’ve tentatively titled it Burning: Iron as Blood. There’s an alternative title, Expedition of the Gods.”

Wang Bo said, “Where’s the draft? Let me see it.”

Hill was pleased with his eagerness. He happily opened his backpack and pulled out a manuscript—this time handwritten, not typed.

At that moment, an employee came to deliver files to Wang Bo. He glanced at the manuscript and looked thoughtful.

Flipping through it, Wang Bo said, “Hey, just from the beginning, I’m interested. I bet this will become a hit, and this manuscript will surely be worth a fortune!”

Hill said, “I’ll dedicate it to our library. You think it could be the centerpiece?”

Wang Bo awkwardly said, “Well, buddy, to be honest, this library isn’t permanent. It’s meant to attract Lincoln University to establish a branch. It will eventually be removed.”

Hill’s face fell. “Ah?”

Wang Bo cleared his throat. “Don’t be too surprised. Lincoln University will bring a larger library. This one won’t be necessary. But it won’t be removed soon—at least a year.”

The rental agreement was valid for 14 months. Wang Bo planned to return the books at the end, avoiding a huge final payment.

Hill felt a bit down but understood the enormous cost of purchasing the books and building the library.

Wang Bo reassured him, “That’s for the future. Who knows what will happen? Focus on your signing event; I’ll arrange for publicity.”

Fortunately, he had an employee on hand, Miles Walter, under Elizabeth. Wang Bo told him about Hill’s book signing and the salary announcement event, instructing him to coordinate promotion with Elizabeth.

On the second weekend of mid-month, under bright spring sunshine, Hill’s book signing began.

To Wang Bo’s surprise, the turnout was large. Most attendees were pedestrians or readers from nearby Oak City and surrounding areas—Hill’s influence had grown significantly.

Additionally, Craig Parker, the actor confirmed to play the lead in the New Zealand adaptation of Deadly Notes, came to support Hill, which attracted even more locals.