Chapter 2: The First Innovation

Ethan stood beside Ronan's forge, sweat beading on his brow from the relentless heat. The blacksmith had given him permission to attempt his idea, but there was skepticism in the man's eyes.

"Alright, lad," Ronan said, arms crossed. "Show me what you've got."

Ethan took a deep breath. His mind raced through the designs he had studied back in his world. Medieval forges were inefficient because they lacked proper airflow control. If he could channel oxygen more effectively, they could reach higher temperatures using less fuel.

"We need bricks, clay, and a bit of iron to create an adjustable vent system," Ethan explained. "Right now, the air disperses too much, and we lose heat. If we concentrate it, the fire will burn hotter."

Ronan scratched his beard. "Bricks, we can manage. Clay's from the river. But iron? That'll cost."

Ethan nodded. He had no money, but he had knowledge. "If I can make this work, you'll make more weapons and tools in less time. That means more coin for you."

Ronan chuckled. "You talk big for a newcomer. Fine. Get what you need, and we'll see if your fancy ideas amount to anything."

###

For the next few days, Ethan worked tirelessly, shaping bricks and molding clay with the help of Ronan's apprentices. The villagers watched with curiosity, whispering about the strange newcomer.

"Why's he messing with the forge?" one man muttered.

"He thinks he's some sort of alchemist," another scoffed.

Ethan ignored them. He was used to doubt.

When the new chimney was finally complete, he stood back, wiping soot from his face. It was time to test it.

Ronan piled charcoal into the forge, and Ethan adjusted the new vent. He pumped the bellows, and almost immediately, the flames roared higher, burning with an intensity neither Ronan nor his apprentices had seen before.

The blacksmith's eyes widened. "By the gods…"

Ethan grinned. "Told you it'd work."

Ronan inspected the fire carefully. The heat was intense—more than enough to melt iron faster. He turned to Ethan, respect flickering in his gaze. "Lad, you might just be onto something."

###

Word of Ethan's success spread quickly. The forge attracted new customers, eager to see the "miracle fire" that could produce stronger weapons in half the time. But not everyone was pleased.

A rival blacksmith from the next village, a man named Garrick, paid them a visit. He sneered at Ethan. "You're playing with things you don't understand, boy."

Ethan met his gaze evenly. "I understand enough to make a better forge."

Garrick scowled. "We'll see how long that lasts." He turned and left, but Ethan knew trouble was brewing.

He had made his first mark on this world. Now, he just had to survive it.