Innova8

Ethan, a man from the modern world, awakens in a medieval land ruled by swords and magic. With no powers of his own, he refuses to be just another commoner. Instead, he wields the greatest weapon of all—knowledge.

From the forge to the fields, he introduces steel stronger than any sword, machines that change farming forever, and ideas that shake the foundations of power. But progress breeds enemies. Nobles and warlords fear his influence, and ancient forces stir as the world resists change.

With allies by his side and rivals in his path, Ethan embarks on a journey to revolutionize an entire world—one invention at a time.

But in a realm where power is dictated by strength, can one man’s knowledge reshape destiny?

Empire of Innovation

The village buzzed with excitement after Ethan's victory. The sight of his blade cutting cleanly through the log had left an impression. Merchants, craftsmen, and even the local guards had begun asking about his techniques. But with attention came new challenges.

Ronan set down his hammer and sighed. "The steward of Baron Aldric sent a request. He wants to commission weapons using your methods."

Ethan raised an eyebrow. "A noble? That could be good for business."

Ronan grunted. "Or dangerous. Nobles don't like disruptions. If we work for one, we might make enemies of another."

Ethan understood the risk. The feudal system thrived on control, and innovation threatened that. But if he wanted to push progress forward, he couldn't stay hidden.

"Let's hear what he has to offer."

Before Ronan could respond, the forge door swung open. It wasn't a customer—it was Garrick. His jaw was tight, his expression unreadable.

Ronan folded his arms, clearly still wary after the contest. "You've got some nerve showing up here after that stunt."

Garrick exhaled sharply. "I didn't come to fight. I came to make a deal."

Ethan exchanged a glance with Ronan before nodding. "Go on."

Garrick hesitated, as if forcing himself to speak. "I won't deny it—you bested me. But I've got my own forge to run, and your 'miracle fire' is making customers turn away from mine."

Ethan remained silent, letting him continue.

"So here's my offer," Garrick said. "Teach me your method. In exchange, I'll supply you with iron at a lower price. I have connections with the miners—you don't."

Ronan scoffed. "And why should we trust you?"

Garrick's gaze darkened. "Because if I go out of business, I'm not the only one who'll be coming for you. Others will see you as a threat. If we work together, we control the change. If not… someone else will."

Ethan considered his words. Garrick wasn't lying—competition wasn't their only concern. Nobles, rival craftsmen, or even the local lord could see their advancements as a disruption to the status quo.

"Alright," Ethan said at last. "But I won't give you everything at once. We work step by step. Agreed?"

Garrick clenched his jaw but nodded. "Agreed."

Later that evening, a messenger arrived at the forge. He wore fine clothing, his posture rigid with authority. "Ethan of Ronan's forge?"

"That's me," Ethan said cautiously.

"The honorable Baron Aldric requests your presence at his estate. Immediately."

Ronan muttered a curse under his breath. "Told you nobles would come knocking."

Ethan sighed, wiping the soot from his hands. "Guess I'd better not keep him waiting."

As he left, he couldn't shake the feeling that his victories were only making things more complicated.

And soon, he would find out just how dangerous progress could be.

Chapter 4: Rising Tensions