Chapter 5: Close to Freedom and a Great Opportunity

Character's Age: 7

Year: 251 BCE

---

New Strength and a New Life

Six more months had passed. We were now six years old, but our physical strength and endurance were equivalent to that of a 12-year-old. Every morning, we continued our physical training, and every evening, we practiced sword techniques with discipline. Over time, we felt ourselves becoming more disciplined, stronger, and smarter.

In addition, we had managed to save a total of 24 silver coins. We were very close to achieving our goal of freedom, but we still had to execute our plans carefully.

---

Encounter with a Merchant

One morning, a merchant visiting the village approached us. He expressed interest in buying our toothbrushes in bulk. We were surprised because, until now, we had only made small sales. However, this merchant wanted 5,000 brushes every month.

"5,000 units?" I asked him. "We can't produce that quantity right now. But we do have some surplus stock."

The merchant explained that the toothbrushes were highly marketable. When I asked where he intended to sell them, he mentioned taking them to the Chu State. His accent and way of speaking indicated that he genuinely hailed from Chu. This detail helped me determine his trustworthiness.

I didn't sell him all our stock. If I had given him everything, we would have risked putting all our investment into one deal. Instead, I sold him exactly 5,000 brushes.

---

Price Agreement

Normally, we sold each brush for 5 bronze coins. However, since the merchant was purchasing in bulk, he agreed to pay 7 bronze coins per brush. This was a huge profit.

5,000 units × 7 bronze = 35,000 bronze coins

This amounted to 350 silver coins. Calculating such a large sum made me excited, but I quickly thought about what this money could mean for us.

After collecting the payment, the merchant left the village, pleased with his purchase. "I hope we can do business again," I told him. "Safe travels."

---

Unexpected Wealth

After the merchant left, I returned to Piao and Shin with a chest containing 350 silver coins. When I placed the chest on the ground and opened it, their eyes widened in astonishment.

"What's going on? Our goal was just 30 silver. Now we have 350!" Shin exclaimed, his voice filled with disbelief.

Piao, however, calmly examined the money. "This is far more than we expected. But with this kind of wealth comes greater opportunities—and greater risks."

---

A Change in Plans

Having such a large sum of money completely altered our plans. Not only could we now purchase our freedom, but we could also take significant steps to secure our future. However, we needed to act cautiously.

1. Freedom

Purchasing our freedom was now a simple matter. We could go to the master, pay the price, and end our life of servitude. But mere freedom wasn't enough. We needed shelter, a plan to secure food, and a sustainable source of income.

2. Land and a Home

Piao suggested using some of the money to buy a small piece of land and build a modest wooden house. This would allow us to start farming or raising animals to sustain ourselves.

3. New Business Opportunities

The deal with the merchant demonstrated how profitable trade could be. If we could develop new products and expand to larger markets, we could achieve wealth beyond our imagination.

---

Explaining the Plan to Shin and Piao

I shared these ideas with Shin and Piao, saying, "We have a lot of money now. This is not just an opportunity to buy our freedom, but to build a secure future. However, if we're not careful, we could lose everything."

Shin laughed and said, "We're free now! Let's go to the master and end this slavery right away."

But I told him to stay calm. "We will buy our freedom, but we also need to think about what comes next. This money isn't just for freedom; it's for survival."

Piao listened carefully to my plan and finally said, "This makes sense. If we use this money wisely, we won't just be free. We'll be strong and independent."

---

Three-Phase Plan

1. Freedom: We would go to the master and pay for our freedom.

2. Land and a Home: We would purchase a small plot of land and build a modest wooden house.

3. Farming and Trade: We would start raising chickens and roosters and continue trading for income.

---

The Freedom Process

The next day, we approached the fat master. Showing him the money, we declared our intent to buy our freedom.

The master, astonished by the sight of so much money, sneered and said, "How did slaves like you come into possession of such wealth? It's unbelievable."

But in the end, money mattered most. "Fine," he said. "You're free now. But remember, life outside is much harder."

---

The Start of a New Life

After purchasing our freedom, we bought a small plot of land outside the village. This land was big enough for both raising chickens and building a shelter. Piao began planning the layout of the land. Shin focused on constructing the house, while I went to the market to buy chickens and roosters.

---

Building a Future

We were no longer slaves. But this didn't mean the challenges were over. To survive and thrive, we had to work even harder. By using our money carefully, we aimed not only to secure our freedom but to build a strong foundation for the future.

---

Patience and Strategy

With 374 silver coins in total, we possessed a fortune unimaginable for children our age. However, we decided not to draw attention to ourselves. Being too conspicuous could attract the wrong kind of people—those who might try to take everything from us.

"We must be patient until we're at least 12 years old," I told Shin and Piao. "We need to grow gradually. If we rush, we risk losing everything."

Piao nodded in agreement. "That's a smart plan. Moving slowly is safer."

Shin, however, was impatient. "But why wait when we already have so much? We could do something big now!"

I calmly replied, "Yes, we could, but everything has its time. If we attract too much attention, someone stronger will surely come to take what we have."

---

The Plan in Detail

Of the 374 silver coins, we decided to use only 74 for now. This amount was sufficient to establish a small farm and meet our basic needs.

---

Starting a Small Farm

1. Preparing the Land

The land was overgrown with weeds and rocks. Each morning, we would clear stones, cut weeds, and level the soil.

2. Building a Fence

To protect the land from wild animals and thieves, we built a sturdy wooden fence. The process took a week, but by the end, our land was secure.

3. Raising Chickens

We bought 10 chickens and 2 roosters from the market for 4 silver coins. These animals would provide eggs, which we could sell for income.

---

Steady Growth

With the farm operational, we were earning a small but steady income from egg sales. At the same time, we continued our sword training and strategic studies, preparing for a future where we could fully utilize our skills and resources.

---

A Future Full of Potential

At just six years old, we had gained our freedom and laid the foundation for a better life. This was only the beginning. With patience, strategy, and hard work, we were confident that our small steps would one day lead to great success.

"Right now, we're taking small steps," I told Shin and Piao. "But one day, these steps will lead us to

greatness."

Piao smiled slightly. "Success comes not from rushing but from moving wisely."

Shin clenched his fists and said, "One day, we'll achieve far more than this farm!"

6 Months Later

It had been exactly six months since we established our farm. During this time, we faced numerous challenges, but patience and strategic thinking allowed us to overcome them. What began as small steps had now transformed into a well-functioning farm that provided us with a stable income.

---

The State of the Farm

1. Chickens and Eggs

The 10 chickens and 2 roosters we initially purchased reproduced faster than we expected. Currently, the farm housed a total of 25 chickens and 4 roosters. Regular egg production became the cornerstone of our income.

Weekly Egg Production: 50-60 eggs

Monthly Income: Approximately 2 silver coins (depending on the number of new customers).

This income was sufficient to cover both farm expenses and our daily needs.

2. New Small Ventures

In addition to eggs, we continued selling toothbrushes at the village market. However, due to limited demand in the village, we significantly reduced this operation and focused solely on our regular customers. During this time, we began brainstorming new product ideas.

---

Training and Development

Besides managing the farm, we continued our daily routine of physical training and sword practice. These activities not only enhanced our physical strength but also bolstered our mental resilience.

1. Physical Strength and Endurance

Thanks to our daily physical training, by the age of 6.5, our physical capabilities matched those of a 15-year-old. Running 5 kilometers had become easy, and push-ups and pull-ups no longer posed a challenge.

2. Sword Training

We made significant progress in swordsmanship. We had mastered the basic attack and defense techniques and started integrating strategic thinking into our moves. Piao excelled in defensive techniques, while Shin's strength lay in offensive power.

3. Strategic and Mental Growth

Our strategy games continued as well. In our "battle board" game, we began experimenting with more complex formations and maneuvers. This game honed our ability to analyze our opponents and exploit their weaknesses.

---

6-Month Earnings and Savings

Over six months, our earnings exceeded expectations. By carefully managing our operations, we accumulated a total of 20 silver coins, bringing our savings to 94 silver coins.

However, we still had 300 silver coins set aside as a reserve and were determined not to touch this amount until we turned 12.

---

New Challenges and Opportunities

1. Farm Expansion

As our farm grew, managing it became increasingly complex. Tasks like feeding, cleaning, and caring for the chickens required more time. Piao suggested implementing a more efficient system.

"If we manage tasks systematically, we can save both time and energy," Piao said. Acting on his suggestion, we reorganized the feed storage and distribution system.

2. Hostility in the Village

Our success began to attract the attention of other farmers in the village. Some approached us with friendly trade offers, while others openly expressed their dissatisfaction. One day, a farmer confronted us, saying:

"While the rest of us struggle to make ends meet, your rapid growth seems suspicious. There must be something going on."

His words were unsettling, but we chose to remain silent. To avoid drawing unnecessary attention, we decided to carry on discreetly.

---

A New Idea: Growing Vegetables and Grains

In addition to raising chickens, we decided to grow vegetables and grains on our farm. We allocated a small section of land for this and began cultivating simple crops. This would not only meet our food needs but also provide additional products for the market.

Planting Plan:

Vegetables: Cabbage, carrots, and onions.

Grains: Wheat and barley.

We invested a total of 3 silver coins in this initiative. It would take approximately three months before the first harvest.

---

Long-Term Plans

1. Patience Until Age 12

Our plan remained unchanged: progress slowly and steadily until we turned 12. During this time, we were committed to avoiding unnecessary attention and using our resources wisely.

2. Farm Expansion

We aimed to gradually expand the farm and create new revenue streams. In addition to chickens and vegetables, we considered raising larger animals like goats or sheep in the future.

3. Strategic Training

We planned to advance our swordsmanship and strategic studies further. These skills would make us stronger and more effective in the future.

---

Conclusion: A Step Closer to Our Goal

This six-month period highlighted the importance of patience and strategy. By taking small steps, we developed ourselves and expanded our farm. With 94 silver coins now saved, we were ready to pursue larger plans.

"We're still at the beginning," I told Shin and Piao. "But these small steps will lead us to much greater goals."

Shin, as energetic as always, laughed and said, "One day, we'll turn this farm into something far bigger!"

Piao, more composed, responded, "As long as we remain patient, anything is possible."

---

The Silent Awakening of the System

Time passed, and I reached the age of 7 in this world. The farm was running smoothly, and Shin, Piao, and I were growing in our own little world. One evening, after completing all our tasks, I retreated to the cabin to rest. Just as I was preparing to sleep, a sudden light flashed in my mind.

A screen appeared. It resembled the system panels I remembered from the anime and webtoons in my previous life. Looking at it with excitement, I was mesmerized by what I saw. This system was not just a simple source of information but a powerful strategic tool.

---

The System Panel

The panel displayed the following details:

Personal Stats: Zhi Yong

Age: 7

Strength: 10

Endurance: 11

Intelligence: 15

Speed: 8

Charisma: 7

Abilities:

Mind of a Genius: Strategic thinking capacity and rapid learning.

Basic Sword Techniques: Beginner-level swordsmanship.

Assets:

Silver Coins: 394

Farm:

Chickens: 25

Roosters: 4

Eggs (In Storage): 100

Planting Area: Vegetables and grains (yet to be harvested).

Tasks:

Active Task: Pay special attention to each chicken.

Description: Ensure the chickens grow healthy by giving them individual care.

Duration: 7 days

Reward: 20% production increase.

The more I explored the system, the more excited I became. It was entirely under my control and seemed to be accessible only to me.

---

Understanding and Protecting the System

Once I realized that the system was exclusive to me, I understood its immense value. Such an advantage couldn't be shared with anyone.

"This is my secret weapon," I thought. "If I ever reveal it to the wrong people, it could endanger not just me but also Shin and Piao."

I resolved to keep the system entirely confidential. To Shin and Piao, I would act as a leader, make logical decisions, and demonstrate strategic thinking, all without revealing the system's existence.

---

Planning the Task

The task system was the first advantage the system offered. "Pay special attention to each chicken" seemed like a simple task, but the reward—a 20% increase in production—was too good to pass up.

To complete the task, I outlined the following steps:

1. Feed Adjustment: Regulate the amount and quality of feed for each chicken.

2. Health Monitoring: Check the physical condition of the chickens, isolating and caring for any weak or sick ones.

3. Coop Cleaning: Clean the coops thoroughly to create a healthier living environment.

While carrying out these tasks, I kept the system's existence a secret. Instead, I gave Shin and Piao straightforward instructions. "We need to take better care of our chickens. If we do, our production will increase," I told them.

They accepted my reasoning without question and worked alongside me.

---

Completing the Task

Over the next seven days, we worked meticulously. Each chicken received individual attention, the coops were cleaned thoroughly, and the feeding plan was strictly followed. At the end of the task period, a notification appeared in the system:

"Task Completed!

Reward: 20% Production Increase."

The effects of the reward were immediately noticeable. The chickens became healthier, and egg production rose significantly. Where we had previously collected 50-60 eggs per week, we were now gathering 70-80. This increase contributed substantially to our monthly income.

---

The System's Benefits

I realized that the system wasn't just beneficial for tasks but also an incredible tool for strategic planning. For instance, being able to view Shin and Piao's stats allowed me to guide them more effectively.

Optimizing Shin and Piao's Strengths

Shin's strengths were his attack power and speed, so I decided

to push him harder in physical tasks and sword training.

Piao excelled in intelligence and endurance, so I assigned him more responsibilities in strategy development and planning.

This approach maximized their potential and improved our overall efficiency.

Long-Term Planning

Using the insights provided by the system, I began to plan our farm and endeavors with a long-term perspective.

Short-Term Plans (1-2 Years):

1. Farm Expansion: Increase the number of chickens to boost production.

2. Vegetable and Grain Production: Complete the first harvest and introduce new products to the market.

3. Revenue Growth: Supplement egg sales with income from vegetables and grains.

Mid-Term Plans (By Age 12):

1. New Animals: Begin raising larger animals, such as goats or sheep.

2. Expanding Trade Network: Establish connections with traders beyond the village.

3. Silver Accumulation: Use the system's advantages to increase our wealth and prepare for larger investments.

Long-Term Plans (Age 12+):

1. Entering Large-Scale Trade: Venture into city markets and establish a substantial trading business.

2. Military Development: Advance swordsmanship training and develop combat skills for future challenges.

3. Strategic Mastery: Use the system to win significant battles and outmaneuver opponents.

---

Protecting the System and Maximizing Its Power

I knew the system was my greatest advantage in this world. However, I also understood that such power required careful and calculated use. Revealing it to Shin or Piao might put them at risk, which was a risk I wasn't willing to take.

"This system is a tool for my future—and for theirs too," I thought. "If I don't wield it wisely, it will mean nothing."

I resolved to treat the system as a silent ally, using its capabilities to grow our farm, develop our skills, and ensure our survival in this harsh world. With every passing day, I felt more confident that our s

mall beginnings would lead us to a grand destiny.