Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Li Wei had lived an ordinary life in the modern world, a world filled with smartphones, internet shopping, and constant advancement in technology. He was an ordinary man, doing his job in an office, handling tasks no different from anyone else. He had no ambitions, no dreams—until one day, he was struck down in a car accident and his life came to an abrupt end.
When he opened his eyes, Li Wei found himself lying in a strange, unfamiliar land. The sky was an odd shade of purple, and the air had a strangely metallic scent. Standing up, he realized he was no longer in the city where he had lived, but in what appeared to be an ancient forest. His body felt the same, yet it was evident he was no longer in the modern world.
"What is this place?" Li Wei muttered, his voice echoing in the quiet of the forest.
Suddenly, a strange blue screen appeared before his eyes, much like the ones he had seen in video games. He blinked, unsure if he was dreaming or if something supernatural was happening. The screen displayed words that made his heart race with disbelief.
Welcome to the Realm of Agara.
You have been reincarnated.
System: Online Shopping Portal Activated.
Li Wei's mind spun. "Reincarnated?" He looked around, trying to make sense of his surroundings. There were no skyscrapers, no bustling streets, no cars or anything resembling the modern world. Instead, he was surrounded by towering trees and distant mountains.
Then, the screen updated again, showing a list of items.
Available Items:
1. Smartphone (Brand: Galaxy, 5G Enabled) – 10,000 Gold Coins
2. Modern Apparel (T-shirt, Pants, Shoes) – 1000 Gold Coins
3. Instant Ramen (Pack of 10) – 50 Gold Coins
4. Energy Drink (Box of 6) – 30 Gold Coins
Li Wei's jaw dropped. He blinked and rubbed his eyes. This was impossible. How could he be in a world where such items were available? Was it a dream? Or something far more fantastical?
System: You may use your current currency (0 Gold Coins) to purchase any available item.
You may also trade items with the system for currency.
Li Wei didn't know what was happening, but one thing was clear: this system was real, and it was something he had to learn to use. With no other options, he chose the only item he could afford.
Item Purchased: Instant Ramen (Pack of 10)
A bright flash of light filled his vision, and when it faded, a pack of instant ramen appeared in his hands. Li Wei stared at the packaging, which looked completely out of place in this medieval world. Without hesitation, he opened the pack and found that it was the same as the ones back in his world.
"Well, I guess I have to adapt," he muttered, opening the ramen and preparing it with some water from a nearby stream.
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Author's Comment:
In this first chapter, I wanted to establish the basic premise of the story—Li Wei's sudden reincarnation into a medieval world and the introduction of the online shopping system. I've always been fascinated by the concept of modern technology being transplanted into a fantastical setting. The idea of an e-commerce system allowing a person to shop for modern-day items in a medieval period opens up endless possibilities for both humor and conflict. As you continue to read, you'll see how this system influences not only Li Wei's personal journey but also the world around him. The contrast between his modern knowledge and the ancient customs he now faces will create a rich, dynamic story. I hope you enjoy this journey with Li Wei as much as I do!