Chapter 1: Dimensional Anomaly
Year XX60
The laboratory was in complete silence. Only the hum of the monitors and the flickering of indicator lights broke the stillness. In the center of the room, a sealed capsule contained a fragment of dark matter floating within a magnetic field. Its faint glow seemed to devour light rather than reflect it.
[Stability analysis in progress…]
The synthetic voice of AION, the artificial intelligence integrated into his cerebral chip, resonated in Dr. Ethan Vance's mind.
[Containment collapse probability: 2.3%. Safety within acceptable parameters.]
Ethan frowned as he observed the graphs on the screen. Erebo-X… a substance that defied the laws of this universe an unconfirmed material never before seen in its pure state. His team had spent years tracking its presence in cosmic dust clouds and asteroids near black holes. Now, finally, they had a real sample.
"If we can stabilize the reaction, we might be on the verge of a new energy era…" he murmured to himself.
[Warning. Anomalous activity detected in the sample. I recommend proceeding with caution.]
Ethan typed a series of commands. The readings fluctuated erratically, but everything still seemed to be under control.
[Activating stabilization sequence in three… two… one…]
A blinding flash exploded in the room. Ethan felt an impossible pull in all directions, as if his body were being dismantled and reconstructed in the same instant. His vision distorted, the laboratory vanished, and an immense darkness swallowed him.
He could neither see, hear, nor feel his own body, as if he were trapped in a formless abyss without direction. He tried to move, but he had no limbs—only a floating consciousness in an ocean of darkness.
After what felt like an eternity, AION's voice echoed once more.
[Extreme interference detected. Unknown… unknown… initiating analysis.]
And then, suddenly, everything returned. But it was no longer his laboratory.
An ancient wooden ceiling had replaced the high-tech monitors. The scent of incense and old paper filled the air. His senses were still in chaos when an excited voice broke through the room.
"The young master has awakened!"
A servant stood guard in the room. He approached Ethan with concern.
"Young master! It's wonderful that you're awake. Don't move, I'll call the doctor right away."
Under Ethan's confused gaze, the servant hurried out of the room. The moment his figure disappeared through the door, a sharp pain exploded in Ethan's head, as if thousands of burning needles were piercing his brain.
[Alert: Neurological overload detected. Activating stabilization protocol…]
AION's voice echoed in his mind, distorted, as if struggling to remain active.
[Attempting synchronization with support network… Error. No connection detected. Switching to autonomous mode.]
A flood of data invaded his brain—unknown information, foreign memories, terms he had never heard before. His breathing became erratic.
[Reconfiguration in progress. I recommend remaining calm.]
"I… crossed over?"
Ethan regained his senses. He now had the memories of another person, another world… A fantasy world where the strong could shatter mountains with a single strike and soar through the skies. A world where the weak were mercilessly devoured.
The name of this body was Li Wei, son of a wealthy mortal businessman—the lowest tier in the hierarchy of power.
This world was ruled by various forces: powerful sects and dynasties in constant conflict. He was currently in the Yun Dynasty, an empire that ruled under an imperial system, competing for resources with four great sects. These sects controlled vast regions and maintained a balance of power with the dynasty, though behind the scenes, the struggle for supremacy never ceased.
The imperial authority governed the territories, constantly clashing with the sects over resources and talent. Meanwhile, the sects recruited disciples from within imperial lands, maintaining a fragile equilibrium between both sides.
The immortal cultivators were the elite of this world. Whether through noble lineage or sheer power, they ruled over grand cities, both imperial and sectarian. To them, mortals were expendable—mere tools or disposable livestock.
As the son of a wealthy merchant, Li Wei had been born with a silver spoon in his mouth, but also with a curse: he possessed no talent for cultivation, not even a low-grade spiritual root. His fate was sealed… To continue his family's business and accept his place as a mere mortal in a world where the weak could be slaughtered at any moment.
Ethan felt a strange dizziness. For a moment, even his own name escaped him. "I am… Li Wei? No… I'm Ethan Vance?" A torrent of unfamiliar thoughts intertwined with his own memories, as if his very identity was fracturing.
AION's cold voice pulled Ethan out of his thoughts.
[Alert: Emergency analysis in progress.][Ethan Vance/Li Wei… Error.][… Analysis complete.][Ethan, Status: Mental fatigue. Recommendation: Immediate rest and intake of glucose-rich liquids.]
"Damn… what's happening?" Ethan muttered, still disoriented.
In the blink of an eye, he had gone from his laboratory to this ancient room. The last thing he remembered was the Erebo-X sample destabilizing and then… darkness.
That experiment was the culmination of years of research. Erebo-X… A material that defied all known laws. If it had truly affected space-time, then maybe it wasn't just an energy source… but something far more dangerous.
"AION, log the events before the blackout."
[During the Erebo-X stabilization process, an unforeseen quantum anomaly was detected. The collapse of its molecular structure generated an unknown fluctuation with potential effects on the space-time continuum. Based on current data, the most probable hypothesis suggests a consciousness transfer. Insufficient information for a conclusive assessment.]
Ethan clenched his fists. Consciousness transfer? Had he died and now occupied another body?
Before he could process further, the door to the room opened. A servant in traditional clothing entered alongside an elderly man with a stern face, dressed in ancient robes.
"Young master, the doctor has arrived," the servant announced respectfully.
Ethan shifted his gaze toward them. According to the memories in his mind, the servant's name was Zhao Ren. He had been with him since childhood. His father, a former family guard, had died protecting them, so the young servant had remained by his side as an assistant and bodyguard.
The old man was Master Wang, a renowned physician in this small city. He was respected by both wealthy families and local government officials.
Master Wang approached and examined Ethan with a furrowed brow.
"After the fall, the young master seems to have recovered... The fainting was due to the impact, but there are no severe injuries. I'll leave this medicinal brew to replenish your energy. Please take it immediately. If there are any unusual symptoms, call me."
With the same speed with which he arrived, Lord Wang left. He was a busy man, and his status allowed him to leave without further explanation.
The servant looked at Ethan with concern and then handed him a bowl with the brew.
"Young master, please take it. We've informed the master, he should be here soon."
Ethan took the bowl, but his mind was still trapped on a single question:"Did I really die... and now I'm someone else? No, that's absurd. But then, how do I explain all of this?"
Chapter 2: The First Step Towards Expansion
The door opened quickly, and a burly man in a costly silk robe entered with firm steps. His round face reflected concern, but his gaze relaxed upon seeing Ethan awake.
"Son, how are you feeling?"
Ethan, still adjusting, felt a slight nervousness but kept his expression calm. He didn't want to raise suspicion, as he had not yet fully adapted to his new memories.
"Just a little dizzy, f-father... It's nothing serious."
Li Jiang crossed his arms, observing him attentively but without pressing too much.
"Good. Make sure to rest. I'll tell the servants to be on alert in case you need anything."
He nodded with a slight sigh, as if finally allowing himself to relax. His tone shifted to a more practical one.
"When you feel better, we will talk. For now, just recover."
With one last glance, he turned and left the room, leaving behind a momentary sense of stability.
Ethan let out an internal sigh. He had not yet adapted to his new identity and didn't want to raise suspicion. Now he had to focus on understanding this world and his new situation.
"AION, organize the memories. Create a file folder named 'Li Wei' and classify the information."
He wanted to structure his thoughts. His mind was in chaos—sometimes he felt like Ethan, sometimes like Li Wei.
[Confirmed. Creating directory: 'Li Wei.'][Data classification in progress...][Priority set: Personal relationships and current environment.][Identified relatives: Li Jiang: father, Wei Lan: mother, Zhao Ren: servant and personal assistant.][Current environment: Location: Rong City, under the jurisdiction of the Yun Dynasty.][Irrelevant information archived. Memory integration status: 32%. Rest is recommended to avoid neurological overload.]
Ethan closed his eyes for a moment. At least now he had a starting point. The first step was to recover… then, to understand how to survive in this world.
"Young master, are you alright?" Zhao Ren asked with concern.
"I'm fine. Could you bring me something to eat?" Ethan wanted to relax for a moment and let AION continue organizing the memories.
"Wait a moment, young master. I'll bring it right away."
Zhao Ren quickly left the room and headed to the kitchen to give the orders.
Meanwhile, Ethan reflected on his next steps. Based on the memories analyzed by AION so far, he knew that this world was filled with dangers. People like him, without strength or skills, could die at any moment.
He felt confused... but also excited. According to the knowledge stored in his mind, this world defied all the laws of physics he knew. It was like opening the door to a universe of new possibilities and theories.
[Analysis completed. Data organization at 100%.][Main categories: Personal relationships, Environment, Personal history, Irrelevant information]
With the analysis completed, Ethan reviewed the information to familiarize himself better with his current identity.
After going over the data, he stood up and began exploring the room he was in. It was a spacious area, decorated with luxury fitting his status. The large carved wooden bed was covered with fine fabrics, and the walls displayed antique-style decorations. A large bronze mirror stood in one corner.
Ethan approached the mirror and looked at his reflection.
"Fortunately… I look the same, just a bit younger," he murmured to himself.
In front of him, a young man in his twenties stared back. His long, black hair was neatly tied, and he wore a high-quality silk robe. His face was handsome, with eyebrows sharp as swords and a serene gaze, too calm for someone of his age.
While Ethan was lost in his thoughts, a knock on the door was heard.
"Young master, your food is ready."
"Come in." Ethan replied in a calm tone. After everything that had happened, he was mentally exhausted and just wanted to eat something to relax.
Zhao Ren entered quickly and served a bowl of porridge. Ethan didn't pay attention to the dish; he simply took the spoon and began to eat.
While eating, his mind continued working. He now had a clear idea of his identity and current environment. He could simply go on living as the son of a prosperous merchant, enjoying a comfortable life. But his nature wouldn't allow him to do that.
The experiment with Erebo-X… why did it react that way? What exactly caused it? What other hidden uses could it have?And beyond that, this world itself was an enigma.
After eating, night fell. Ethan leaned against the window frame, contemplating the view. Outside, there was only a courtyard with a pond, where fish jumped beneath the faint light of the stars. His gaze remained fixed on the night sky, lost in his thoughts.
"I wonder where I am… the same universe? Or, based on the multiverse theory, I could have been transferred to a parallel reality, where the fundamental constants differ enough to allow for the existence of cultivators..."
Ethan squinted. If this world followed different principles, his understanding of science needed to expand beyond the conventional.
----
One night later, Ethan woke up. He was exhausted and had slept in late. As soon as he opened his eyes, he heard a knock on the door.
"Young master, are you awake? The Master is expecting you in his office."
Ethan rubbed his face, still somewhat sleepy.
"Yes, I'll be right there."
He slowly sat up and looked at the silk robes hanging on the rack. Although his body still felt a bit heavy, he decided to dress himself. It took him a few moments to properly adjust the layers and belt, but in the end, he managed without too much trouble.
He took a deep breath, mentally preparing himself. There were many questions in his head, but for now, the most important thing was to face the meeting with his "father."
Following Zhao Ren to his father's study, Ethan observed the surroundings. The building looked like an old-style villa, with servants busy with their daily tasks. According to his memories, his family was not large.
Their wealth came from the wine and liquor business. The family's history dated back to his grandfather, who had developed a special wine recipe. With patience and determination, that first business grew into a distribution network that supplied nobles and government officials. Over the years, his father, Li Jiang, expanded production and established contacts with the elite, consolidating their position in the market.
As he was thinking, they arrived at the door of the study. Ethan stepped forward and took a deep breath to calm himself, trying to appear as natural as possible. He had reviewed all of his memories with AION's help, so he felt more confident than the day before.
"Come in." Li Jiang's voice resonated from inside the study.
Ethan slid the door open and entered. The study had an old-style design, with a carved desk and shelves filled with books. The air was infused with the scent of incense and paper.
"Father." He greeted respectfully.
"How are you feeling?"
"I'm fine, Father, thank you. Yesterday I was a bit sore, but I'm feeling better now."
"I'm glad to hear that. Have you thought about what we discussed?"
While reviewing his memories the night before, Ethan had learned that, before his accident, his father had wanted him to start getting involved in the family business to train him as his successor.
Now, Li Jiang planned to expand the business even further and had already set aside a considerable sum for new investments. Ethan, with AION's help, saw this as an opportunity.
"Father... if you'll allow me, I have an idea that could help with the business expansion."
Li Jiang raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Oh? What is it?"
Ethan took a deep breath. He knew his father wouldn't accept an idea without solid reasoning. As a businessman, Li Jiang understood that any investment carried risks, and without tangible results, he wouldn't part with his money easily.
"If I talk to him about microbiology or chemical processes, he won't understand anything. I need to explain it in terms he can clearly visualize."
"Father, I've been thinking about ways to improve the quality of our wine. Our current process is good, but there are details that could be optimized."
Li Jiang narrowed his eyes. "Optimized?"
"Yes. If we better control the fermentation, we could produce a purer wine with a more refined taste. For example, the type of vessels we use affects the aroma and preservation time. I've also considered trying a different blend, adding certain fruits and honey at key moments to enhance the flavor without affecting the wine's stability."
Li Jiang placed a hand on his desk. His expression was serious. "Improving the wine sounds good... but any change in production could lead to losses. If something goes wrong, we could end up with whole vats ruined."
"I know, Father. That's why I propose running a small-scale test. Not changing the entire process at once, but preparing a few vats using this technique and comparing them with the current ones. If it doesn't work, the losses will be minimal. But if it does, we could sell a superior quality wine at a much higher price."
Li Jiang remained silent, evaluating it. Finally, he nodded. "If you truly believe it's worth trying, I'll provide the resources for a test. But if the result is unsatisfactory, we won't insist on it."
Ethan gave a slight smile. "That's all I need." Although he was confident in his idea, he knew he couldn't appear too sure. With AION's database, improving the quality of wine in this era would be a straightforward process, but he couldn't reveal the true origin of his knowledge.
With his father's approval and the initial capital, he could start building his own wealth and move forward with his future plans and research.
"I'll give you 300 taels of silver and 50 of gold for the test. You can take samples from the cellar."
Ethan managed to maintain composure, but internally, he was surprised. He hadn't expected his father to entrust him with such a considerable sum right from the start. This showed that Li Jiang genuinely wanted him to grow in the business and was giving him the freedom to make important decisions.
After saying this, Li Jiang took a bag from his desk and handed it to Ethan.
"Thank you, Father. I'll get to work immediately."
Ethan gave a slight bow of respect and left the study. Zhao Ren followed him in silence.
Chapter 3: The Dilemma
Leaving his father's study, Ethan headed towards the family winery to collect samples. His steps were automatic, but his mind was in a whirlwind of thoughts. He was now Li Wei... but he was still Ethan, too. Technically, they shared the same body, but their memories and experiences were different.
If a logical hypothesis were followed, the previous owner of this body would have died in the accident, and his own consciousness would have somehow been transferred and reactivated in this new body. However, that conclusion raised too many uncertainties.
"It doesn't make sense..." he muttered to himself.
Concepts such as "soul" or "memory absorption" had no place in the framework of contemporary science. From a neurological perspective, his brain chip, AION, functioned as an advanced neurocomputational interface. Although it had access to the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex—regions crucial for memory consolidation and retrieval—it didn't implant memories. It merely stored them and optimized their retrieval.
But then, how was it possible that he knew Li Wei's story? Why did his mind not only retain those memories, but also feel them as his own? These weren't fragmented or externally stored information; they were lived experiences with a profound emotional weight.
Ethan pressed a hand to his forehead. There was a fundamental difference between remembering and being someone. And yet, the more time he spent in this body, the more natural it felt. As if his mind was gradually adapting to the new reality.
Was it possible that his own identity was changing?
Instinctively, he tried to remember his lab, the monitors illuminating the Erebo-X pod, AION's voice echoing in his mind. he still saw him clearly. He was still Ethan Vance. But at the same time, if he closed his eyes, he could just as easily recall the feel of the warm morning sun on the gardens of the Li family estate, the familiar hallways of his home, and her father's strict upbringing.
The contradiction was disturbing.
He sighed and rubbed his forehead. There was no point in getting lost in speculation without concrete data. For now, the only certainty was that he was there. No matter how or why, this was his new environment. If he wanted to survive, adapting was the only option.
Maybe he didn't understand it yet. But he would find the answer.
But that didn't change reality.
To the world, he was Li Wei.
To himself… he was still Ethan Vance.
For now, that distinction was enough.
While Ethan remained lost in his thoughts, they arrived at the basement. He observed the place for a moment before giving orders to the guards stationed there.
"Move a dozen jars."
The men nodded and immediately began working. For the moment, Ethan didn't have a suitable area to experiment or a laboratory, but he already had a solution in mind.
"Zhao Ren, I remember there's an empty basement in the villa."
Zhao Ren nodded respectfully. "In response to the young master, that is correct. It was vacated when the business expanded. It was previously used as a storage area, but your father left it unused."
"Good. Order the servants to clean it and move the jars there. I'll use it later."
"Understood, young master." Zhao Ren bowed respectfully before leaving to carry out the orders.
After giving the instructions, Ethan headed to his room. He needed to organize his thoughts, set an agenda with the next steps, and develop both short- and long-term plans.
"AION, review the list of viable wines and liquors based on current resources and conditions," he requested as soon as he entered his room.
[Analyzing raw material availability, infrastructure, and production methods...]
[Several viable options have been identified according to the current resources. Prioritizing efficiency and profitability, I suggest the following categories: Aged Rice Wine – Controlled fermentation with temperature adjustments to develop a deeper flavor. Fermented Fruit Liquor – Use of local fruits for market diversification, with high acceptance among specific sectors. Rice Distillate – Higher alcohol concentration, requires the implementation of a rudimentary still, but its demand is high in high-income sectors.]
Ethan reviewed the options in his mind. Aged rice wine was safe, but it would take longer to achieve concrete results. Fruit liquor was interesting but relied too much on the availability of fresh fruits. Instead, rice distillate, although requiring additional equipment, had a higher profit margin and could be positioned as a premium product.
rice distillate,If he managed to refine it, he could create a new superior product with less competition.
"We'll go with rice distillate."
[Confirmed. Compiling optimal distillation process based on available technology. Requires still installation, temperature control, and proper storage. Suggest evaluating materials for construction.]
Ethan nodded. This would mark the first step in his plan. He couldn't order a complete still, so he'd have to divide the fabrication into parts. Additionally, material selection and process control would be key to ensuring the quality of the distillate.
He took a brush and a piece of paper, starting to write a list of materials he would need:
Materials for the still: Copper or forged iron sheets, Thick ceramic vessels, Clay or resin seals, Sturdy wooden supports, High-quality charcoal or firewood.
Once the list was finished, he folded it and handed it to Zhao Ren, who was already waiting outside the door.
"Take care of getting these materials at the market"
Zhao Ren received the list with a respectful bow. "Understood, young master. Do you need anything else?"
Ethan drummed his fingers on the table, thinking about the next step. He needed to find a blacksmith capable of crafting the pieces separately.
"Also, find a reliable blacksmith, someone who accepts special orders. I need him to forge some pieces according to my specifications."
Zhao Ren nodded.
Ethan exhaled slowly. With this in motion, he'd soon have his equipment ready for the first distillation test.
"The next thing on the agenda is planning for the future. I'm currently in a stable position, but in this world, nothing is truly secure."
He watched the light filtering through the window. Despite the apparent calm, risk was always present. Here, where strength defines destiny, relying solely on his surroundings was not an option.
According to the information left by his predecessor, his talent for cultivation had been evaluated five years ago. Without spiritual roots, he was doomed to irrelevance in the eyes of this world. The only viable path is: technology.
"If cultivation is not an option, then the only logical answer is to follow the path of science and technology." The words faded into the air. The idea made sense, but putting it into practice was another matter.
"How should I proceed with the available resources?"
Ethan analyzed the answer. The world was trapped in a cycle of cultivation and stagnation. For years, people had clung to ancestral teachings without questioning them. With no incentives to innovate, technological progress was nonexistent.
Ethan sighed. He didn't have time for speculation. The world would continue to function under its own rules, but that didn't mean he had to follow them.
"The first step is to secure my position. Relying on what already exists is a limitation I can't afford."
Ethan let out a faint bitter smile. "The distilled wine is a good starting point, but it's just a means, not an end."
This world was ruled by sects, clans, and dynasties, and surviving in it meant adapting to their power structures. Even with technology, a single man wouldn't change anything.
"I need individuals I can shape from the start."
But not just anyone. Cultivators were out, at least for now. Also, adults with minds too rigid, trapped in their own vision of the world.
"Young people. Capable of adapting. Without pre-established loyalties."
Ethan closed his eyes for a moment. Technology was the key, but without the right people, it would remain just a tool without purpose. If he wanted to build something with real impact, he would need more than just ingenuity. He needed control.
"Protection and defense... Before developing weapons, I need to make sure I have the right materials, specialized tools, and an efficient production method." Ethan reflected aloud, his mind focused on the essentials.
AION, provide options. I'm looking for functional weaponry that doesn't rely on advanced technology but is superior to mecha weapons. Its power and reliability should be enough to face the threats of this world.
[Analyzing requirements…]
[Spark weapons have limitations in terms of rate of fire, reliability, and power. spark pistols, which are more portable but less accurate and have a shorter range, spark rifles, which are more effective at a distance but less maneuverable. Initial production is feasible with handcrafted methods, though with limitations in consistency and volume.]
Ethan nodded. Reloading speed was still an issue, but among his options, these weapons were the most realistic.
The spark pistol offers mobility. A backup weapon, easy to conceal. —He crossed his arms, evaluating the alternative—. But the spark rifle gives me more range and power. Facing a cultivator at a distance could make the difference.
"We'll make both," his tone left no room for doubt. "Now, the materials."
[Confirming choice…]
AION processed the information before continuing.
Required materials: steel and wood for the structure. For black powder, sulfur, charcoal, and saltpeter are needed. Expected limitations: assembly precision, steel quality, and powder consistency.
Ethan drummed his fingers on the table. Gunpowder was as essential as the weapon itself. Without it, any effort would be in vain.
"AION, identify viable sources of saltpeter in our immediate surroundings."
[Analyzing…]
Natural nitrate deposits can form in stables, latrines, and soils rich in decaying organic matter. It is recommended to inspect these areas to assess the feasibility of extraction.
Ethan nodded. If there was enough saltpeter, he would just need a method to purify it.
I'll send someone to check those places. If there's enough material, we'll start gathering immediately.
[Feasible plan. Proceed with the material acquisition phase…]
Ethan exhaled slowly. He knew it wouldn't be easy, but it wouldn't be impossible either. It all started with a solid foundation.
"Then, let's first consolidate the steel production."
The first step of his journey had just been defined.
Chapter 4: Forging the Future
The next day, Ethan was reviewing the cart loaded with the list of materials he had requested and confirming prices."Thick ceramic jars, clay seals, wooden supports, high-quality charcoal..." he murmured while inspecting each item.
After instructing the servants to take the materials to the basement, he headed towards the blacksmith and goldsmith recommended by Zhao Ren to place the specific orders. He needed to order two thin metal pipes, a sheet of copper or wrought iron for a small boiler, and a coil. He wasn't looking for anything refined or complex, just the individual pieces.
Zhao Ren took the reins of the cart, skillfully guiding it through the city streets. His posture was relaxed, but his gaze constantly scanned the surroundings, as if always assessing potential threats or alternative routes.
On the way, Ethan observed the city for the first time. The main streets were paved with stone, and the dirt alleys were traversed by merchants and citizens. There were bustling markets where traders shouted their products, workshops with blacksmiths and carpenters working in plain sight of passersby, and restaurants with spicy aromas wafting through the air.
The architectural style was of ancient grandeur: wooden and stone buildings with curved roofs, adorned with intricate reliefs.
After several minutes, the cart had left the city center and approached the artisan district, a street lined with workshops. There were carpenters, goldsmiths, and blacksmiths working openly, the sound of metal being struck and the scent of freshly cut wood filled the air.
At the end of the street, they found a medium-sized forge. It didn't go unnoticed, but neither did it stand out excessively. A wooden sign hung at the entrance with the name engraved in bold characters:"Serene Forge"
The owner of this forge was Zhang Wei, though most knew him as Old Zhang. In his youth, he had founded the workshop and gained a solid reputation for his reliable and sturdy work. He was still in charge of the place, alongside his two sons and apprentices, Zhang Tie and Zhang Jin.
Ethan disembarked from the cart and walked firmly through the workshop's entrance. As soon as he stepped inside, a wave of heat enveloped him. In the background, the rhythmic strikes of a hammer against hot metal echoed, accompanied by the crackling of burning coal in the forge.
A young man was sitting behind the counter, organizing accounts in a ledger. On the sides, wooden shelves displayed everyday tools: hoes, hoops, hammers, nails, and iron hinges, essential pieces for the local farmers and artisans. In a more discreet corner, there was a pair of swords, but their quality was mediocre compared to the weapons of the clans. It wasn't hard to deduce that the business was more focused on providing tools for mortal families and workers than on making high-level weaponry.
Noticing the entrance of two people, Zhang Tie immediately stood up. He carefully observed their attire: a well-dressed young man accompanied by a servant. No doubt, high-profile clients that he could not afford to offend."Welcome! How may I assist you?" he asked in a respectful tone.
Before Ethan could respond, Zhao Ren stepped forward and spoke naturally, his attitude imposing but without arrogance."My young master is looking for blacksmith Zhang Wei for a custom order."
Zhang Tie nodded immediately and pointed to the back of the workshop."My father is at the forge. Please, follow me."
With quick steps, he led them through the workshop, where the air was filled with the smell of molten iron and burning coal. In the back, near an anvil blackened by years of use, a middle-aged man with a short beard and somewhat graying hair was hammering a red-hot metal bar. His work-hardened muscles and firm posture made it clear that, although he was no longer young, he still retained his skill.
Noticing the presence of visitors, he set the hammer aside and removed his leather apron before turning toward them."Father, this gentleman wishes to place a special order," announced Zhang Tie respectfully.
The blacksmith observed Ethan with an analytical gaze. While it wasn't uncommon to receive orders from young men from wealthy families, most sought weapons or pieces of armor, not regular blacksmith work."I am Zhang Wei. What do you need, young master?" he asked in a deep but polite voice.
Ethan, maintaining a calm expression, nodded slightly."I need some custom metal pieces."
Old Zhang raised an eyebrow, curious."What kind of pieces?"
Ethan took out a scroll where he had sketched the approximate designs."I require two thin metal pipes, one straight and the other spiral-shaped, that can connect to a ceramic jar. Also, a sheet of copper or wrought iron that can be molded into an adjustable lid, with an opening."
Zhang Wei took the scroll and studied it carefully. His eyes scanned each stroke of the design, especially pausing at the spiral pipe. He furrowed his brow and scratched his beard thoughtfully."Hmmm... this isn't something people ask for every day. The spiral pipe will be a bit complicated to make, and working with copper sheets isn't easy."
Ethan maintained his calm expression."I just need the pieces to fit well and be durable."
Old Zhang nodded slowly and folded the scroll before placing it on a workbench."The spiral pipe will take more time, and copper isn't cheap."
Ethan took out a bag of silver coins and placed it on the table with a precise motion."Half now, half when the work is finished."
Zhang Wei took the bag, weighing it in his hand with a calculating look. After a moment of silence, he nodded."Alright, it should be ready in three days."
Ethan slightly inclined his head in agreement and turned to leave. Zhao Ren followed him without saying a word. As they left the forge behind, Ethan analyzed the next steps. The preparations for the construction of the distillery were complete.
Upon leaving the forge, Ethan climbed into the cart and instructed Zhao Ren to take a turn around the city. Though he possessed the memories of his predecessor, he needed to validate the information for himself.
The artisan street served its purpose as a production hub. Carpenters were working on furniture, while other shops offered agricultural tools and household items. In some larger establishments, weapons such as swords, spears, and knives were on display. In a world where violence was a constant, access to weaponry seemed more of a necessity than a privilege.
The social structure was based on security and strength. Wealthy families and merchants hired guards for protection, while mercenaries organized in groups for hunting and exploration. Stories of mercenaries stumbling upon rare spiritual herbs and ascending were common. Though these cases were exceptional, they weren't impossible. Not everyone had spiritual roots or the resources to cultivate, so such stories served as inspiration for some.
However, opportunities went hand in hand with dangers. In the wilderness, demonic beasts posed the greatest threat. These creatures, unlike ordinary beasts, had an innate affinity for spiritual energy, granting them physical abilities superior to those of humans. Their attacks on mercenaries, merchants, and even entire cities were a constant reminder of the world's risks.
Despite their danger, demonic beasts were also a valuable source of resources. Their meat, skin, bones, and spiritual cores were highly valued materials, traded in cities of cultivators.
As Ethan entered through the restaurant door, he was greeted by a lively scene. The interior was spacious, with wooden beams carved with intricate patterns. The aroma of roasted meat, spices, and liquor floated in the air, blending with the sound of laughter and animated conversations. Above, private balconies allowed higher-status diners to enjoy their meals with more privacy.
A well-dressed waiter approached immediately and, with a slight bow, guided them to a table near a first-floor window with a view of the street. Ethan didn't hesitate to place his order."Bring me lacquered duck, beef noodle soup, steamed dumplings, and sweet and sour pork. Also, some rice and a jar of good wine."
The waiter nodded efficiently and withdrew. Ethan leaned slightly in his seat and, by instinct, brought his hand to the bridge of his nose, trying to adjust glasses that weren't there. An automatic gesture, engraved in his memory after years of wearing them.
He clicked his tongue silently. Although his vision was good enough in this world, he didn't quite feel himself without them.
"Sit down," he ordered Zhao Ren, not taking his eyes off the table.
Zhao Ren, who had remained standing behind him like a guard, hesitated for a moment. However, upon noticing Ethan's calm gaze, he obeyed and sat across from him. Though he was his servant, their relationship went beyond a simple master-servant bond. They had known each other since childhood, and if there was anyone Ethan could trust without hesitation, it was him.
As they waited, the restaurant's hustle and bustle blended with the conversations of nearby diners."Did you hear? A disciple from the Sect of a Thousand Bones massacred an entire village."
Ethan kept a neutral expression, but his mind immediately registered the name.
"Shhh, don't say nonsense," another man at the table replied nervously."According to official news, the village was attacked by a demonic beast. The county has already mobilized cultivators to deal with the problem."
"Bah, nonsense!" the first man snorted in annoyance."The nearby villages witnessed the scene and swear it was a cultivator dressed in black. His technique was related to bones; it was clearly those lunatics."
His companions tried to calm him down, but the man seemed too upset to stop.
Ethan did not immediately react, but memories began to surface in his mind. The Sect of a Thousand Bones was one of the four main sects of the Yun Dynasty, but unlike the other three, its reputation was stained with blood.
The Jade Sword Sect represented unmatched swordsmanship, cultivating fencing techniques. The Iron Tiger Sect prioritized strength and endurance, forging their bodies into weapons. The Fire Lotus Sect mastered the path of fiery spiritual energy.
But the Sect of a Thousand Bones… it was different.
While the other sects cultivated strength by constantly integrating spiritual energy into their bodies, the Sect of a Thousand Bones followed the demonic path. Their disciples also used the lives of mortals and cultivators as fuel for their progress. For them, the human body was nothing more than raw material; blood, marrow, and bones were ingredients refined into cultivation tools or living weapons. Their techniques could extract the very essence of an enemy, molding it into bone talismans or into flesh puppets that obeyed without free will.
Rumors spoke of disciples carrying weapons forged from human spines. But they weren't just tavern rumors. For centuries, the lands of the Yun Dynasty had been witnesses to their atrocities, and although the other sects tried to eradicate them more than once, the Sect of a Thousand Bones had proven to be a force difficult to extinguish.
They could face the fragile alliance of the three orthodox sects, plagued by internal struggles and conflicts of interest, without fear. As for the Yun Dynasty, their stance was clear: as long as the balance of power was maintained, some sacrifices were acceptable. They did not interfere in the sects' wars, because if all suffered losses, their control over the domain would only solidify further.
Ethan drummed his fingers on the table. He dismissed the concern for the moment. He was still far from being able to get involved in the matters of high-level cultivators. For now, his priority remained the same: to develop himself.
The aroma of the freshly served lacquered duck interrupted his thoughts. Without further delay, he picked up his chopsticks and began to eat.