1836: I Became a Literary Giant in Great Britain

After paying the final payment, Michael and Michelle said goodbye to old Samuel.

When Michel stepped back onto the street in this outfit, he immediately felt the stares from those around him.

These gazes were extremely complex, containing surprise, scrutiny, envy, and even a hint of disdain...

.......

On Jemin Street, a well-dressed gentleman was about to board a four-wheeled carriage when he glanced casually at the roadside and froze.

His gaze was fixed on Michelle, from her smooth shoulders to her tailored trousers.

"Watch out, sir!"

The coachman's exclamation brought him back to reality. A carriage almost grazed past him, startling him so much that he broke out in a cold sweat.

The gentleman, however, disregarded his lingering fear and instead eagerly asked his companion.

"Look! Is that the latest design from Paris? I've never seen such a... such a bold design!"

"But it looks incredibly stylish!"

His companion frowned and commented in a critical tone.

"Oh? In my opinion, it's just a strange outfit meant to attract attention. A truly respectable person would never dress like that."

Such discussions are quite common on the streets.

A young woman covered her mouth and secretly cast curious and shy glances at Michelle.

There were also older conservatives who shook their heads and sighed, as if they had seen some immoral scene.

Michelle clearly sensed the changes happening around her.

All of this was simply because he changed his clothes...

That damned, appearance-obsessed England...

"Did you see that, Michelle?"

Michael winked smugly to himself, his voice brimming with excitement.

"You've only just stepped out the door and you've already caused a sensation! Tonight, you're definitely going to be the center of attention at Gore's mansion!"

Michelle shook her head with a wry smile and said nothing.

He didn't enjoy being stared at like a rare animal, but this "armor" did give him an unprecedented sense of confidence.

Back home, Michelle took a short rest before preparing for the first high-end salon of her life.

To be honest, he didn't have high hopes for this salon.

After all, based on his past experience...

To climb the ladder, you usually need a thick skin...

Given his personality, he would never do anything to flatter or fawn over someone...

Therefore, Michel's expectations for this salon were nothing more than to broaden his horizons...

After all, he had plenty of experience as a background figure when attending academic conferences with his mentor in his previous life...

-----------------

It was five o'clock in the afternoon, and it was getting dark.

A light two-wheeled carriage arrived right on time in front of Michelle's apartment building.

The visitor was none other than Michelle's good friend, Dickens.

Although Dickens wasn't particularly interested in salons, it was Michel's first time attending, so he had to bring his brother along.

Dickens jumped out of the car; he was dressed much more formally than usual today.

A black double-breasted coat made him look more mature and composed than usual. He wore exquisite jewelry on his hands and neck, which looked quite eye-catching.

When he saw Michelle, who was already ready, even he, who was used to big occasions, was momentarily stunned.

"Oh my God........"

Dickens circled Michelle, his face bearing the same look of surprise as Michael's.

"Michelle, I must say, your outfit... is quite unexpected."

He reached out and touched the fabric of the suit, then carefully examined its unique cut.

"I've attended countless salons and seen all sorts of gentlemen, but none of them dressed like you. It... is very special, and it suits you perfectly."

Then, somewhat annoyed, he complained, "Looks like you're going to steal the show at the salon tonight!"

"Where was this designed? I want one too!"

Upon hearing that the outfit was designed by Michel, the great writer was utterly astonished.

Michelle, you're amazing! You seem to know everything!

Unlike Michael, Dickens was very interested in these trendy clothes.

In fact, even the decoration of his home was exceptionally magnificent.

The interior of his fireplace was painted pink, and the carpet was covered with brightly colored floral patterns...

Upon seeing that Dickens had approved of the outfit, Michelle's uncertainty vanished instantly.

It seems that what looks good is good, even in Great Britain 200 years ago.

Moreover, it wasn't a completely modern suit; it was merely a modified version of a contemporary one...

"Thank you for your kind words, Charles."

"Don't be too happy yet." Dickens' expression suddenly turned serious.

"Your outfit will attract all the attention tonight. That's both an advantage and a disadvantage."

People will approach you out of curiosity, but they will also scrutinize you out of jealousy. Every word you say and every action you take will be magnified infinitely.

He patted Michelle on the shoulder, his tone serious.

"Gore's mansion is like a magnificent stage, and everyone is an actor. Your role tonight is that of a highly anticipated newcomer. Many people are waiting to see your performance, and also waiting to see you make a fool of yourself."

Michelle nodded, taking those words to heart.

"Let's go, it's getting late." Dickens glanced at his pocket watch.

The two walked down the stairs one after the other and got into the carriage.

The carriage started slowly, its wheels making a crisp sound as they rolled over the stone pavement.

The vehicles weaved through the streets of West London, leaving the noise far behind...

Inside the carriage, Dickens continued to impart his "salon survival rules" to Michel.

"The people in Gore's mansion can be roughly divided into several categories."

His voice wasn't loud, but it was very clear.

"The first type is the true elites and celebrities, such as rising political stars like Disraeli or established writers like Bulwer-Lytton. They are the heart of the salon and the leaders of the conversation. With these people, be respectful, listen more and talk less, unless they initiate the conversation with you."

"The second type is 'newcomers' like us, who gain entry through our work or talent. We are the fresh blood of the salon, and also the objects of observation and selection by the key figures. They may appreciate you, or they may just treat you as an interesting topic of conversation."

"The third type is the followers and sycophants who attach themselves to the powerful. They are best at changing their tune with the wind; they can praise you to the skies today and trample you into the mud tomorrow. Be extra careful with these people."

Michelle listened quietly, processing all the information.

He knew that what Dickens was saying was valuable experience gained from personal experience.

The carriage gradually slowed down.

Michelle lifted the curtain of the car window and looked out.

They have arrived at their destination – the Gore Mansion.

This Kensington mansion is less a house and more a small palace.

Bright lights poured out from countless windows, illuminating the entire building as if it were daytime.

The wide driveway in front of the gate was already filled with all kinds of magnificent carriages. Well-dressed gentlemen and ladies, led by servants, climbed the steps and disappeared behind the gate.

The air was filled with the faint scent of perfume, melodious music, and the laughter of people, weaving together a symphony belonging to high society.

Looking at the luxurious scene before him, Michelle felt somewhat indifferent.

Just kidding, any academic conference in my past life could easily dwarf these...

How can someone who has seen the sun be surprised by fireflies?

His heart was filled with nothing but tranquility!