Distillation Process

"We've found it!" one of the workers exclaimed, unable to contain his disbelief.

Li Ming and Li Xuan exchanged glances and quickly made their way to the worker. They peered into the hole and witnessed black liquid oozing from the ground.

"Hmm..." Li Xuan crouched down, examining the liquid closely. She touched it and even sniffed her finger, trying to verify its authenticity. After confirming that the liquid made her finger slippery, she stated, "It appears we've found our target."

Li Ming smiled. "Indeed, there should be a significant reservoir beneath us. We just need to identify the ideal location to dig and begin extraction. However, it will involve repetitive manual labor, so we must devise a plan for that."

"I understand," Li Xuan nodded. "In that case, what should we do with this hole?"

"For now, we can leave it as it is and wait until our tools are ready," Li Ming suggested.

"Alright," Li Xuan agreed, standing up and requesting a cloth to wipe off the oil. She then turned to Li Ming and asked, "By the way, how do you plan to use this oil for medicine and other purposes?"

Li Ming pinched the bridge of his nose, appearing troubled. "Actually, I should be asking you first. What have you been doing with the oil so far?"

"We simply extract the liquid and use it as it is," Li Xuan replied, tilting her head in confusion. That was the customary way of utilizing the oil, so she didn't understand Li Ming's question.

Li Ming sighed, feeling the weight of his knowledge. "That's not quite right. First, we need to separate the components."

"Separate them?" Li Xuan grew even more perplexed.

"Yes. By separating the oil, we can utilize each component for its specific purpose. I haven't examined the sample yet, but this oil can be divided into various products such as petroleum gas or naphtha for lighting stoves or street lamps, lubrication oil, or even wax. Have you noticed any residue when burning this oil?"

Li Xuan recollected her experiences working with the oil and looked up, recalling, "Now that you mention it... there was some residue whenever we used the oil for street lighting."

"That's it," Li Ming confirmed with a sigh. "By separating the components, we can eliminate that issue and produce higher-quality products."

Li Xuan's eyes lit up with understanding. "Doesn't that mean we can utilize the oil more effectively? We could sell the different components separately to maximize profits."

"Indeed. However, we need to develop the necessary tools for separation, which will take some time," Li Ming explained, sighing once again. "Well, it seems I should return to my room and prepare some drawings and explanations for future development."

Li Xuan offered an awkward smile, feeling apologetic. On one hand, she felt embarrassed by their lack of knowledge. On the other hand, Li Ming's expertise seemed like a treasure trove. With his guidance, they could reach new heights, even if their focus was solely on oil exploitation.

"Just like a martial arts master can accomplish much more, mastering oil will open up endless possibilities," Li Xuan thought to herself, resolving to report the findings to the patriarch and persuade Li Ming to stay with their Li Clan.

"Anyway, gather a few samples in tubes and collect some rock samples as well. I'll need to request Elder Han to create some sturdy glass bottles," Li Ming instructed.

"Glass bottles? Why do they need to be made of glass? Glass is fragile and easily breakable," Li Xuan questioned.

"That's precisely why I need sturdy ones. Though I don't have high expectations at the moment," Li Ming responded, deep in thought. "Also, do you have larger sheets of paper? I fear the ones in my room won't be sufficient."

"Don't worry. We'll do our best to fulfill your requirements. Additionally, the maid assigned to your room will relay any messages or requests to me, so feel free to inform her of everything you need," Li Xuan assured him.

"Very well," Li Ming sighed, contemplating inwardly, "This place is indeed in need of a technological revolution. The advancement of oil technology alone spans over a thousand years. Can I achieve it within the scope of my mission?"

Li Ming's sigh reflected the challenges he anticipated. However, with Eyses by his side, there was still hope. As he had stated before, it would be hard, extremely hard, but not impossible.

Having observed Li Ming's reaction, Li Xuan proposed, "In that case, should we return to the clan now? We can leave a few people behind to protect this resource."

"Yes, we should head back," Li Ming agreed.

Li Xuan guided him back to the carriage after leaving a guard and two workers to safeguard the site. She understood that the rise of the Li Clan was imminent.

Though she didn't openly admit it, she believed in her own capabilities, surpassing those of Li Heng. If he tried anything against Li Ming, she wouldn't hesitate to confront him.

Upon their arrival at the Li Clan, Li Xuan joyfully reported the oil's potential to her father, bringing him great delight.

Meanwhile, Li Ming returned to his room, preparing to compile all the necessary information for future development. He sat in his chair, gazing at the ceiling, muttering to himself, "Simple distillation process, sample requirements, reservoir calculations, and comprehensive instructions... Ah, due to the technological gap, I forgot to study the layered formations to learn more about the rocks beneath the ground. Well, I can do that tomorrow, I suppose..."

"That's right. I also need to teach Li Xuan about tectonic movements. Since this world is a planet too, the tectonic plates must be in motion, right? Unless... this is a flat earth or something," Li Ming chuckled, reminiscing about the conflict between Li Xuan and Li Heng.

He shook his head, resolving, "No, I came here to complete my mission. I don't intend to become attached to this world. Thus, I must fulfill my task as quickly as possible."