The journey from Notting City had taken nearly two weeks, following established trade routes through the countryside of the Heaven Dou Empire. Lin Tianyu, Tang San, and Xiao Wu had maintained an easy pace, stopping in various towns along the way to rest and resupply. The trio's friendship had deepened during the long hours of travel, filled with conversations about cultivation theory, shared meals around evening campfires, and friendly competitions to pass the time.
Lin Tianyu had used his Sword Control technique sparingly during the journey, only when they were completely alone and needed to scout ahead for potential dangers. His ability to fly on his blade soaring above the treeline provided excellent reconnaissance while maintaining the appearance of conventional travel to any observers.
Tang San had proven to be an excellent traveling companion, his wilderness survival skills complementing Lin Tianyu's navigation abilities and Xiao Wu's natural instincts. The combination of Tang San's practical knowledge, Lin Tianyu's strategic planning, and Xiao Wu's cheerful optimism had made even the more challenging portions of their journey enjoyable.
As they crested a hill overlooking their destination, the city that housed Shrek Academy spread out before them. It was larger than Notting City but carried a distinctly frontier atmosphere, with a mixture of permanent stone buildings and temporary wooden structures that suggested rapid growth and constant change. The streets bustled with activity - merchants, spirit masters, and common folk all going about their daily business under the warm afternoon sun.
"So this is where we'll be attending academy," Xiao Wu said, bouncing slightly with excitement as she took in the view. "It looks much more interesting than Notting City. I can already sense there are stronger spirit masters here."
Tang San nodded thoughtfully, his analytical gaze cataloging the city's layout and defensive positions out of habit. "The location makes sense for an academy that trains elite spirit masters. Easy access to multiple trade routes, but far enough from major political centers to avoid unwanted attention."
Lin Tianyu smiled at his friends' observations while privately noting several locations his Desire Compass had been pointing toward during their approach. "The merchant district looks active. This could be an excellent place for business opportunities."
As they descended toward the city gates, Lin Tianyu realized this was the perfect moment to share the plan he had been developing throughout their journey. He had decided to establish himself in this city not just as a student, but as a craftsman capable of revolutionizing local commerce through his unique abilities.
"Actually," Lin Tianyu said as they approached the city walls, "I've been thinking about something important I should share with both of you. Something that happened during one of my solo hunting trips that I haven't mentioned before."
Tang San and Xiao Wu looked at him with curiosity, noting the serious tone in his voice.
"Remember when I told you about some of my hunting expeditions for cultivation purposes? Well, during one of those trips deeper into the forests, I discovered something extraordinary." Lin Tianyu paused dramatically. "I found the ruins of what appeared to be an ancient workshop, hidden deep within a cave system that I stumbled upon while tracking a spirit beast."
Xiao Wu's eyes widened. "What kind of ruins? Was there treasure?"
"Better than treasure," Lin Tianyu replied. "I found a complete inheritance of soul guide crafting knowledge and techniques."
Both of his friends stared at him in shock. Tang San was the first to find his voice. "Soul guide crafting? But that's a lost art. No one has been able to create new soul guides for centuries."
"Exactly," Lin Tianyu said, his excitement barely contained. "The inheritance contained detailed manuals, crafting techniques, and even some preserved examples of ancient soul guides. I've been studying the materials in secret, and I believe I can actually recreate these lost methods."
Xiao Wu clapped her hands together in amazement. "Lin Tianyu, that's incredible! Do you have any idea how valuable such knowledge would be?"
"I do," Lin Tianyu replied seriously. "Which is why I want to establish a workshop here while we're waiting for the Shrek Academy entrance tests. If I can successfully craft even basic soul guides, the implications would be enormous."
Tang San's analytical mind immediately grasped the broader significance. "You could revolutionize the entire continent's approach to spirit master equipment. Soul guides that actually work and can be reliably produced would change everything."
"My thoughts exactly," Lin Tianyu agreed. "The inheritance includes techniques for storage devices, combat tools, and even some applications that were lost to history. I want to set up a proper workshop and begin experimenting with these methods."
"How long do we have before the academy entrance tests?" Xiao Wu asked practically.
"About five days," Tang San replied. "The tests are scheduled for the beginning of next week."
Lin Tianyu nodded. "That gives me enough time to secure appropriate workspace and begin setting up my equipment. I'll need to purchase or rent a suitable building, acquire raw materials, and establish the basic infrastructure for soul guide crafting."
"This is amazing," Xiao Wu said enthusiastically. "Our friend is going to become the first soul guide craftsman in centuries! You'll be famous across the entire continent."
Tang San looked thoughtful. "The political implications of this discovery are significant as well. Every major power will want access to functional soul guides. You'll need to be careful about how you handle this knowledge."
"I've considered that," Lin Tianyu replied. "Starting small and building a reputation gradually seems like the wisest approach. Prove the techniques work, establish a customer base, and then gradually expand the scope of what I offer."
As they passed through the city gates, the guards barely glanced at their identification papers. The steady flow of visitors seeking admission to Shrek Academy made young spirit masters a common sight in the city.
"So we'll need to separate once we're inside," Lin Tianyu continued. "You two should find suitable lodging and start gathering information about the academy and the entrance requirements. I'll focus on locating and securing appropriate workshop space."
"Are you sure you want to handle this alone?" Tang San asked with genuine concern. "Establishing a business in an unfamiliar city could be challenging, especially when dealing with something as unprecedented as soul guide crafting."
Lin Tianyu smiled confidently. "My merchant family background has prepared me well for business negotiations, and I have good instincts for finding what I need in unfamiliar cities. Besides, this is something I need to do independently to establish my own credibility as a craftsman."
Xiao Wu looked slightly disappointed at the prospect of separation. "How will we find each other again? And what if something goes wrong?"
"We'll meet at the Shrek Academy entrance on the morning of the tests," Lin Tianyu assured her. "The academy is well-known throughout the city, so finding it won't be difficult. As for problems, I have my storage ring stocked with everything I might need, and my cultivation is strong enough to handle most difficulties."
Tang San nodded approvingly. "That sounds like a solid plan. Xiao Wu and I can explore the city, learn about local customs, and perhaps gather information about other students who might be taking the entrance tests."
"Exactly," Lin Tianyu agreed. "You might even encounter some of our future classmates before the official tests begin. Making connections early could be valuable."
As they entered the city proper, the bustling marketplace immediately caught their attention. Vendors hawked various goods from stalls and storefronts, while spirit masters of all levels moved through the crowds. The air was filled with the sounds of commerce, conversation, and the occasional demonstration of martial spirit abilities.
"This place has such energy," Xiao Wu observed, her natural enthusiasm responding to the vibrant atmosphere. "I can already tell this is going to be much more exciting than our quiet academy life in Notting City."
"The concentration of spirit masters here is remarkable," Tang San added, his senses detecting the spiritual energy fluctuations from dozens of nearby cultivators. "The competition for academy admission must be intense."
Lin Tianyu activated his Desire Compass subtly, focusing his thoughts on finding 'the ideal workshop location for soul guide crafting.' The needle immediately pointed toward the commercial district, where larger buildings with potential workspace would be located.
"I should investigate some potential workshop spaces I've identified," he said. "It's best if we split up here - I wouldn't want to miss securing an ideal location while they're still on the market."
Tang San extended his hand in farewell. "Good luck with your workshop establishment, Lin Tianyu. This could be the beginning of something truly revolutionary."
Lin Tianyu clasped his friend's hand firmly. "Thank you, Tang San. Take care of Xiao Wu, and don't get into too much trouble before I see you again."
Xiao Wu stepped forward and surprised both boys by giving Lin Tianyu a warm hug. "Be careful, and don't work so hard that you forget to sleep and eat properly. We want you in top condition for the academy entrance tests."
"I promise to take care of myself," Lin Tianyu replied, genuinely touched by his friends' concern. "You two enjoy exploring the city, and I'll see you both in a few days with hopefully some amazing stories about successful soul guide crafting."
With final waves and promises to meet at Shrek Academy, the trio separated. Tang San and Xiao Wu headed toward what appeared to be the lodging district, where signs advertising rooms and meals were prominently displayed. Lin Tianyu watched them go for a moment, then turned toward the commercial area where his compass was guiding him.
The city's layout was logical and well-planned, with distinct districts for different types of businesses and services. The commercial area featured larger buildings designed to house workshops, warehouses, and showrooms for various crafts and trades. Lin Tianyu noted smithies, woodworking shops, textile workshops, and various other manufacturing establishments as he explored the streets.
His Desire Compass led him through several winding streets before pointing steadily toward a particular building that immediately caught his attention. It was a three-story structure built from solid stone, with large windows on the ground floor that would provide excellent lighting for detailed work. A weathered sign hung above the entrance, advertising the property as available for lease or purchase.
The building appeared to have been vacant for some time, based on the dust accumulation on the windows and the overgrown vegetation around the entrance. However, the basic structure looked sound, and the size was perfect for both workshop space and living quarters.
Lin Tianyu approached the building and peered through the windows. The ground floor was a large, open space that could easily accommodate multiple workbenches, storage areas, and the specialized equipment needed for soul guide crafting. A staircase at the rear led to upper floors that could serve as living quarters and additional storage.
A small placard near the door provided contact information for the property manager. Lin Tianyu noted the address and set off to locate the rental office, his excitement building at the prospect of securing such an ideal location.
The property management office was located several blocks away in a more upscale part of the commercial district. The building was well-maintained and professional in appearance, suggesting they dealt with serious business clients rather than casual renters.
Inside, Lin Tianyu was greeted by a middle-aged woman with sharp eyes and an efficient manner. Her desk was organized with various property listings and rental agreements, clearly indicating extensive experience in real estate transactions.
"Good afternoon," she said politely, though her gaze assessed his expensive clothing and confident bearing. "I'm Manager Liu. How may I assist you today?"
"I'm interested in the three-story building on Craftsman's Row," Lin Tianyu replied, getting straight to business. "The one currently advertised for lease or purchase. I'd like to know the terms and availability."
Manager Liu's eyebrows rose slightly at his direct approach. "You have a good eye, that's one of our premium workshop properties! The building requires significant investment to outfit properly, are you sure you are prepared?"
"Yes," Lin Tianyu said simply, watching her reaction carefully.
"I see," Manager Liu said, making notes on her paperwork. "The building has excellent natural lighting for detailed work, and the stone construction provides good security for valuable inventory. The ventilation can be modified for metalworking needs as well."
"I appreciate your assessment of the building's features," Lin Tianyu replied diplomatically. "What are the terms?"
Manager Liu immediately pulled out the relevant documentation. "The property can be leased for two hundred gold soul coins per month, or purchased outright for twenty-five thousand gold soul coins. Given the nature of your intended business, I would strongly recommend purchase to ensure long-term security for your workshop."
Lin Tianyu considered the prices carefully. Twenty-five thousand gold soul coins was a substantial sum, but well within his family's financial capabilities. More importantly, owning the property would give him complete control over modifications and security arrangements.
"I'll purchase the building," he decided. "Can the transaction be completed today?"
Manager Liu's eyes lit up at the prospect of such a significant sale. "Absolutely! I'll need to verify your financial backing and prepare the ownership documents, but we can have everything finalized within a few hours."
Lin Tianyu reached into his storage ring and withdrew a letter of credit from his family's merchant business. The document was signed by his father and guaranteed payment for any legitimate business expenses up to fifty thousand gold soul coins.
"This should cover the financial verification," he said, handing over the letter.
Manager Liu examined the document carefully, noting the official seals and signatures that established its authenticity. The Lin family's merchant business was known throughout the region for reliability and substantial assets.
"This is more than sufficient," she confirmed. "Let me prepare the purchase agreements immediately. Would you like to inspect the property more thoroughly while I handle the paperwork?"
"That would be excellent," Lin Tianyu agreed. "I'd like to assess what modifications might be needed for my specific requirements."
Manager Liu provided him with keys to the building and detailed directions back to the property. "Take as much time as you need for your inspection. I'll have all the ownership documents ready for signature when you return."
Lin Tianyu made his way back to the workshop building, his excitement growing with each step. This was the foundation for what could become the most revolutionary business venture on the continent. If he could successfully establish soul guide crafting as a viable industry, the implications would extend far beyond simple commercial success.
The building's interior was even more impressive than his initial glimpse through the windows had suggested. The ground floor was divided into two main sections - a front area perfect for a public showroom and sales floor, and a larger rear workshop space with high ceilings that would accommodate large projects and excellent natural lighting from multiple directions. The stone construction provided solid foundations for heavy equipment, while the layout offered flexible arrangement options for different types of crafting work.
The second floor contained what had obviously been office and meeting spaces, perfect for customer consultations and business administration. The third floor offered comfortable living quarters with multiple rooms, allowing him to reside on-site while maintaining his workshop operations.
Lin Tianyu spent nearly two hours exploring every corner of the building, mentally cataloging the modifications he would need to make. Specialized ventilation for magical processes, reinforced workbenches capable of handling soul guide enchantments, secure storage areas for valuable materials and finished products, and defensive measures to protect against theft or sabotage.
His Divine Craftsman talent provided intuitive understanding of how to optimize the space for maximum efficiency and productivity. The Elven Magic knowledge suggested ways to incorporate magical protections that would make the workshop superior to anything that had existed in centuries past.
When he returned to the property management office, Manager Liu had everything prepared for final signature. The ownership documents were comprehensive and legally binding, transferring complete control of the property to Lin Tianyu upon payment of the agreed price.
"The financial transfer will take one business day to process through the banking system," Manager Liu explained as they completed the paperwork. "But the property is yours immediately upon signing these agreements."
Lin Tianyu reviewed the documents carefully before signing, his analytical mind ensuring that all terms were acceptable and properly stated. When the final signature was completed, Manager Liu handed him the permanent ownership papers and a complete set of keys.
"Congratulations, Master Lin," she said formally. "You are now the owner of one of the finest workshop properties in the city. I wish you tremendous success in your crafting endeavors."
"Thank you," Lin Tianyu replied.
As he walked back to his newly acquired workshop, Lin Tianyu felt a profound sense of accomplishment. In a single afternoon, he had established the foundation for what could become the most important crafting business on the continent. The building was perfect for his needs, the location was ideal for attracting customers, and he had the knowledge and skills necessary to make the entire venture successful.
The sun was setting as he unlocked his workshop for the first time as its owner. The golden light streaming through the windows illuminated the empty space, but Lin Tianyu could already envision how it would look once properly equipped and operational.
His first priority would be using his Elven Magic knowledge to reinforce the entire workshop with protective wards and security measures. The ancient elven techniques would allow him to ward the building against intrusion, magical scrying, and potential theft while reinforcing the structural integrity for heavy magical work.
His second priority would be acquiring the basic workspace infrastructure needed for soul guide crafting. While his Myriad Tools martial spirit could transform into any hand tool he might need - hammers, chisels, measuring instruments, cutting implements, and precision crafting tools - he would still need the larger stationary equipment that couldn't be replicated through his spirit. Forges and furnaces for metalworking, sturdy workbenches capable of handling magical processes, anvils for shaping metal components, and specialized surfaces for enchantment work.
More importantly, he would need raw materials suitable for soul guide enchantment. Fortunately, he had already informed his parents about discovering the crafting inheritance during one of their annual visits to Notting City. Lin Qiang and Chen Lan, recognizing the incredible value of such knowledge, had immediately begun using their extensive merchant network to acquire rare materials. His storage ring already contained a substantial collection of precious metals that could channel spiritual energy effectively, gems that could store and focus magical power, rare woods that could serve as frameworks for complex devices, and various alchemical components for enhancement processes. His parents' connections with suppliers across the continent had proven invaluable for gathering these specialized materials discretely.
Lin Tianyu activated his Desire Compass, focusing his thoughts on finding 'the best sources for purchasing forges, furnaces, workbenches, and anvils in this city.' The needle pointed toward several different directions, indicating multiple suppliers and specialty shops that could provide what he needed.
Tomorrow would begin the real work of establishing his business. Tonight, he would clean and organize his new workshop, plan his equipment purchases, and prepare for the most ambitious crafting project anyone had attempted in centuries.
As he settled into his new workshop for the first time, Lin Tianyu felt a deep satisfaction at how perfectly everything was falling into place. His friends were exploring the city and preparing for their academy entrance tests, while he was establishing the foundation for future success and independence.
The Quantum Dimensional Simulator had provided him with the knowledge and skills necessary to accomplish what others would consider impossible. Now it was time to turn that knowledge into reality and begin reshaping the world through his crafting abilities.
In a few days, he would reunite with Tang San and Xiao Wu at Shrek Academy, where their next chapter of cultivation and adventure would begin. But for now, he was content to prepare for the revolutionary changes he was about to introduce to the world of soul guide crafting.
* * *
Meanwhile, across the city in the lodging district, Tang San and Xiao Wu were having their own adventures as they searched for suitable accommodations. The pair had quickly discovered that the city's proximity to Shrek Academy made quality lodging both expensive and competitive, with many establishments catering specifically to aspiring spirit masters and their families.
After visiting several inns and guesthouses, they had eventually settled on the Rose Hotel, a mid-range establishment that offered clean rooms, decent meals, and a location convenient to both the academy and the city's main commercial areas. The proprietress, a cheerful middle-aged woman, had immediately taken a liking to the polite young pair.
When Tang San approached the counter to request two rooms, the clerk apologetically informed them that only one room remained available. After some discussion, they decided to share the accommodation, with Tang San planning to sleep on the floor if necessary.
However, their room arrangement was interrupted by the arrival of three individuals - a blonde young man with distinctive dual pupils accompanied by two beautiful twin women. The young man, who introduced himself as Dai Mubai, claimed the room was reserved for him despite Tang San and Xiao Wu having arrived first.
The situation quickly escalated when Dai Mubai's arrogant attitude provoked Xiao Wu's temper. Though Tang San initially tried to handle the matter diplomatically, Dai Mubai's dismissive behavior eventually led to a confrontation.
"You two together," Dai Mubai had said dismissively. "If you can strike me down, I'll leave immediately. Otherwise, you can show me what 'scramming' means."
Tang San stepped forward to accept the challenge, recognizing that this was a matter of principle and dignity. The fight began with exchanges of pure physical technique, where Tang San's superior conditioning and Tang Sect methods gave him significant advantages despite Dai Mubai's greater size and strength.
When Dai Mubai activated his White Tiger martial spirit, revealing himself as a thirty-seventh ranked Spirit Elder with two yellow rings and one purple ring, the power disparity became apparent. However, Tang San's six years of intensive training under Lin Tianyu's guidance had pushed his abilities far beyond normal limits.
Tang San released his Blue Silver Grass spirit, which had evolved dramatically through proper cultivation and his improved second soul ring. The grass had become incredibly resilient and carried potent paralytic toxins that could affect even powerful opponents.
Despite Dai Mubai's impressive White Tiger Vajra Transformation from his thousand-year third soul ring, Tang San's superior technique, physical conditioning, and strategic use of his control-system abilities allowed him to systematically overcome his opponent's raw power advantages.
The fight concluded with Dai Mubai bound securely by Tang San's Blue Silver Grass, the paralytic toxins having taken effect despite his spirit transformations. Recognizing his defeat despite holding advantages in both cultivation level and spirit power, Dai Mubai conceded with grudging respect.
"Impressive," Dai Mubai said as Tang San released the binding techniques. "At twelve years old with level thirty-three cultivation, you've managed to defeat me despite my higher spirit power. I acknowledge your strength."
The hotel manager, who had been watching nervously, quickly arranged for them to take the disputed room while Dai Mubai covered the costs for the minor damage their confrontation had caused.
"If you're heading to Shrek Academy, mention my name if anyone gives you trouble," Dai Mubai said before departing with his companions. "Evil Eye White Tiger Dai Mubai. We'll likely meet again soon."
After the excitement settled, Tang San and Xiao Wu were finally able to examine their accommodations. Upon entering the room, they discovered it was elaborately decorated as a romantic suite, complete with rose arrangements, intimate lighting, and a heart-shaped bed covered in red silk.
"This is clearly designed for couples," Tang San observed with some embarrassment, noting the obviously romantic atmosphere.
Xiao Wu, however, seemed delighted by the luxurious arrangements. "It's beautiful! And it's much more comfortable than anything we had at the academy."
Tang San resigned himself to sleeping on the sofa in the sitting area, while Xiao Wu claimed the elaborate bedroom with obvious enthusiasm. Despite the unusual accommodations, both were grateful to have a secure place to rest before the upcoming academy entrance tests.
As evening settled over the city, both groups of friends were settling into their first night in their new environment, each preparing in their own way for the challenges that Shrek Academy would present.