This story unfolds during the later stages of World War II, where a man, scarred by the horrors of war, finally grasps the profound and harsh realities of the world. In this world, those at the top laugh and celebrate, while those at the bottom sacrifice their lives in futile conflicts driven by pride and meaningless ambition. A modern soul transmigrates and fuses with the original soul of a body, creating a unique and extraordinary existence. To some, he is a villain; to others, a madman. In a world steeped in cruelty, this man, determined to secure a place among the decision-makers, struggles to break free from the ranks of those powerless to control their fate. To achieve his goal, he resolves to shatter the chains of law, then the chains of morality, and finally the chains of mediocrity.
"Shopkeeper, how much are these silver earrings?" the girl asked.
The shopkeeper paused from packing and looked at it. "That's $35."
He took it out to show the girl.
The silver earrings were pure white and smooth all over. The girl examined them carefully for a long time.
"Could you do $30?" the girl asked.
The shopkeeper looked at the girl.
"Alright, it's a deal."
The girl paid for the earrings, and the shopkeeper took out a long jewelry box and handed it to her. She thanked the shopkeeper, put the earrings into the box, and placed them in her bag. Then she called her companion, Irina, and left the antique shop.
Hardy watched the girl's figure disappear through the window of the art shop before retracting his gaze.
Although she didn't get the paintings she liked, the girl was happy to have bought the earrings, making the trip worthwhile.