The story is set in Jiangcheng, a city within the Da Xia Federation Empire, known for its industrial prowess. Ling Ping'an, the owner of a bookstore called 'Qi Yuan', is troubled by the declining business. Despite efforts to sustain it, the store's popularity has waned since Ling Ping'an took over. Ling Ping'an reflects on his struggles to keep the business afloat while reminiscing about his family's involvement in the store. One night, while reaching for his phone, Ling Ping'an accidentally discovers a mysterious sphere hidden under the counter. Upon opening it, he finds a sharp knife that cuts his finger, revealing a yellowed piece of paper inside the sphere. To chapter advanced at: patreon.com/MindBreakerOfBooks