Chapter 1: A New Beginning
The Azure Continent, Star Empire, Nine Stars City.
As the imperial capital of the Star Empire, Nine Stars City sprawled over an immense expanse of land and was renowned for its proximity to the Nine Stars Mountain Range. These mountains were home to countless ferocious beasts and rare medicinal herbs, drawing practitioners eager for adventure and treasures. Rumor had it that ancient, mysterious ruins lay hidden deep within the range, tempting the bravest souls.
Within the city, high walls over ten feet tall encircled a bustling network of streets and shops. The lively atmosphere of merchants and pedestrians was a sight to behold, unmatched even within the vast Star Empire.
Yet, amidst this prosperity, a small shop in a remote alley on the city's eastern side stood in stark contrast. Deserted and forgotten, its location doomed it to obscurity despite the city's vibrant energy.
Inside the quiet shop, a young man leaned on the counter, his gaze wandering to the lively streets outside, though his eyes betrayed a sense of detachment. This was Luo Chuan, the shop's owner, who had once been an ordinary university student on Earth.
Late one night, his life had taken a sudden and unexpected turn. He had died—how, he could no longer remember—and awoke in this strange new world. A month had passed since then, and the only thing he had gained was this unpopular little shop.
As he sat lost in thought, a cold, mechanical voice suddenly echoed in his mind:
"The strongest store owner system is successfully bound! The store security system has been installed. Would you like to claim your first item now?"
Luo Chuan froze in shock, his heart skipping a beat. In an instant, the shop's environment transformed before his eyes. The cluttered space disappeared, replaced with sleek glass counters and walls made of gleaming silver-white metal. The shop now radiated a futuristic, sci-fi aesthetic.
For a moment, Luo Chuan was stunned. Then, tears welled up in his eyes. After an entire month of struggle, his long-awaited "golden finger" had finally appeared—the cheat-like boon that came with crossing into another world!