First Success

As Li Ming and Li Xuan ascended the hill, their eyes were captivated by the awe-inspiring sight before them—an exposed rock formation that unveiled the layers of geological history. The hillside lay bare, as if nature had decided to reveal its ancient secrets for all to witness. Each layer displayed a variation in color, texture, and composition, forming a slanted wall that gently curved downward.

Li Xuan couldn't contain her astonishment and gasped in awe. Li Ming had previously informed her about the presence of an oil reserve hidden within a curved rock formation like this. Although she had come across similar formations during her hunting expeditions, she had never paid close attention to them as they weren't of significance to her at the time. However, now that she had learned from Li Ming, she realized the interconnectedness of the rock's shape, size, and composition, all of which played a crucial role in locating the oil reserve.

Li Ming's keen observation noticed the sandy layer, reminiscent of the one they had encountered at the bottom of the hill. Adjacent to it lay a distinct band of limestone, characterized by its pale color and smooth texture. With a single glance, he discerned that the guard and Li Xuan were focusing intently on the rock formation, prompting him to instruct Eyses in a low voice, "Scan it and try to analyze it. After that, I want you to show me what to do next."

Eyses swiftly utilized the watch to record and analyze the geological formation, while Li Xuan, filled with curiosity, turned to Li Ming and asked, "Li Ming... I notice that this sandy layer is similar to what we found at the bottom. But how come?"

Li Ming pondered for a moment before speculating, "There might be a fault that separated them, but I'm uncertain without further study. What I mean by fault is when the rock formation fractures, and the type of fault can vary depending on the movement of the rocks." He acknowledged that his understanding relied heavily on Eyses, the AI system he had been relying on throughout their exploration.

Taking a moment to process Li Ming's explanation, Li Xuan then asked, "What should we do next?"

Li Ming responded, "First, we need to take samples of these rocks. Then, I plan to conduct geologic mapping, which will allow me to identify any fault lines or structural features that could indicate the presence of an oil reserve. I understand that it may be challenging to grasp fully, but I will demonstrate and produce some results tomorrow to determine the specific locations where we might find oil. In the meantime, your task is to gather all the information about the oil springs that have been spotted. We can then compare and correlate the data."

Li Xuan nodded fervently, expressing her anticipation. However, she raised a valid question, "If something doesn't match, does it mean there is no oil present?"

Li Ming clarified, "Not necessarily. My calculations and predictions are based on the data I gather, but there's always the possibility that oil is present but not exposed due to a shale formation that hinders its release or, in some cases, there might be no oil at all. You understand now that this is a high-risk, high-return endeavor."

Li Xuan acknowledged the risks involved, knowing that success would bring immense wealth, while failure would mean losing everything.

However, Eyses analyzed the world's situation. Since the oil spring could still be found in the wild, they had a far higher chance of finding oil than missing it. In addition, Eyses had been equipped with the latest AI system that was extremely accurate. So, Li Ming had a great prospect as long as he utilized Eyses well.

Moreover, Li Ming's growing importance to the Li Clan ensured his safety, and the prospect of obtaining gasoline for his truck further fueled their motivation to continue.

Once they collected all the necessary rock samples, Li Ming set out to gather additional information guided by Eyses' instructions. They spent a few hours diligently working, knowing that in modern times, determining the presence of oil would require significantly more time. However, due to the existence of oil springs and the limited exploitation of oil in this era, Li Ming swiftly obtained the data he needed, allowing Eyses to create a detailed map.

As the sun approached the horizon, they concluded their survey and made their way back to the workers who were diligently operating the spring pole. To their astonishment, one of the guards approached them with joyous news, "Young Miss, we have found oil. It's still deep inside the hole, and we've attempted to extract it a little, but there doesn't seem to be any reduction."

Li Xuan's eyes lit up with excitement, and she hurriedly rushed toward the hole to confirm the discovery. Sure enough, a black liquid filled the hole, resembling the water well that didn't flow up due to inadequate pressure. Eyses informed them that if the pressure were sufficient, the oil would naturally flow without the need for a pump. Once the pressure decreased to a certain level, they would employ a pump to enhance production.

Witnessing this occurrence, Li Ming realized that they would have to extract the oil manually since there were no pumps available in the area. Even the water well relied on a basin attached to a rope for its operation. Consequently, the only solution was to create a specialized tool to extract the oil, a tool that Li Ming had requested Elder Han to produce.

"For now, get me two bottles to store the samples," Li Ming instructed, raising two fingers. "Also, how deep are we?"

The guard responded, "I believe... five meters deep."

Li Ming considered this and replied, "I see. Currently, we aim to reach a depth of ten meters. Given the increasing difficulty, we might achieve that depth the day after tomorrow. For now, use the can to remove the debris from the hole." Li Ming noticed that someone had brought the completed can from Elder Han's workshop during their survey.

Li Xuan supported Li Ming's instructions, emphasizing, "Follow his instruction!"

The workers nodded with determined expressions, understanding the seriousness of their task. They began employing the metal can to clean the hole by spinning the tool and gradually penetrating deeper. After some time, they pulled it up and discovered the metal can filled with debris, indicating that the tool was indeed effective.

"Continue cleaning the hole before drilling again. We will repeat this process to reach the desired depth," Li Ming declared.

"Understood," the workers acknowledged with seriousness and determination.

Li Ming decided to return to the city to arrange for additional personnel to protect the site. Once the workers completed their tasks, they would be allowed to go home. Recognizing their hard work and dedication, Li Xuan announced, "After seeing your efforts, I have decided to reward you with 40 copper coins for a day's work!"

The workers were astounded by the generous compensation they received for their efforts. However, Li Xuan issued a stern reminder, "Remember, you are forbidden to disclose any information about this, including to your family. You will bear the consequences if you violate this rule. Understand?"

"Yes, Young Miss," the workers replied fervently, expressing their understanding and commitment to maintaining secrecy.

With their work concluded, Li Ming retrieved the two bamboo bottles used to store the black-colored oil. "It's time to return," he declared. "I will show you the separation method later."

Li Xuan smiled and extended her hand, signifying that they should make their way back to the carriage, content with the progress they had made in their pursuit of the valuable resource.