Chapter 785

Chapter 785: Exquisite Alchemy

Clancia, Soland.

It was drizzling in the sky, and pedestrians on the streets of the city were seen holding black umbrellas. This new type of rain protection tool had gained popularity since its invention due to its affordability, and many people working in the capital had purchased one.

The brick-red walls were dampened by the raindrops; the vines between the fences and bricks swayed in the rain, carrying a slightly cool scent.

Since the reserve forces in Clancia were integrated in late August, the front lines had gradually stabilized. The atmosphere in the capital began to ease, and people started to believe that this war would end in victory. The outcome was destined, but the journey was winding with many hardships yet to be faced.

Now that people’s nerves had relaxed, the bustling life on the streets slowly returned.

“Have you heard? At the end of this month, there will be a harvest festival in the imperial capital, giving everyone a break.”

“Really? That’s great. I’ve been working overtime too much lately, feeling numb.”

“Our factory specializes in metal castings, and military orders have been pouring in like snowflakes. We’ve been operating in three shifts throughout the year, and the machines never stopped.”

“Sigh, just hold on a bit longer. We’re fortunate compared to those fighting bloodshed battles in the south.”

“Yeah, that’s why I don’t complain. It’s just exhausting.”

Two factory workers walked and chatted along the street until they parted ways at different forks.

Compared to the tense and intense first half of the year, people had gradually adapted to wartime life in the second half. However, with prolonged work, minor accidents began to occur. Considering this, the authorities planned to organize a few days off during the harvest festival.

On Lanxing Street No. 56, a new clothing store opened today.

Unlike other stores in the past, the clothes in this shop had a unique style, attracting many passersby upon opening.

Inside the spacious shop, a crowd surged as everyone eagerly looked at the ‘new-style’ dresses hanging.

Compared to the cumbersome court gowns of the past, these dresses were simplified. Simplification did not mean reducing quality or cutting corners; instead, it meant using fewer but more comfortable designs while maintaining their original style and quality, making them more suitable for daily work and life.

Thus, even outside of parties and gatherings, people could wear beautiful and attractive clothes.

The name of the shop was “Exquisite Transformation,” and its sign seemed to be made with alchemical tools. Several specially-made metal wires hung inside the copper-colored sign, emitting blue fluorescence when infused with magic power, standing out particularly on the street.

Inside the shop,

“Don’t push, line up orderly~” A few newly recruited shop clerks busily maintained order, occasionally helping customers take down the hanging clothes for closer inspection.

“They are very unique. I can’t quite describe it, but they look very comfortable,” several customers commented on the clothes.

Among them were ordinary people and wealthy individuals. Many locals had seen the former West Wind nobles’ attire, those intricate Rococo-style long dresses, which were beautiful but inconvenient. These dresses now had similar decorations but were more appropriate, showcasing a distinct style without being too ostentatious or out of place for everyday wear.

“I really love the style of the clothes in this shop,” several girls fell in love with this style, finding it very stylish.

“This one I want to buy, and that one too. Ugh, I feel my salary isn’t enough,” a girl working in a government agency flipped through her wallet.

“Alright, everyone come to the front desk to queue up for payment. Remember not to push others.”

A lively scene unfolded inside the shop, with many people buying their favorite clothes and starting to check out.

“I really like it, thank you~”

“You’re welcome~ Hope to see you again next time.” Letis stood at the front desk, smiling and bowing in gratitude.

Seeing everyone enjoy her designs, a sense of joy and fulfillment welled up in her heart.

Indeed, this was what she truly loved. She recalled the bold words she once said to her roommate at Emanas.

She wanted to create beautiful things, whether it was alchemy or other creations such as clothing and jewelry. They must be strikingly beautiful to touch people’s hearts. Unlike Alena, who only cared about functionality and lacked any sense of aesthetics.

In Letis’s view, only beautiful things would be genuinely loved by people, spread among the masses, influence more people and events, and ultimately change the world.

Practicality alone was insufficient; people needed to genuinely love something to invest emotions and affection, thus fulfilling their spiritual needs.

Material needs such as survival, food, and warmth were important and relatively easy to satisfy. However, spiritual pursuits were endless, and people felt the beauty and meaning of life through them, leading to a more enduring happiness.

Reflecting on her long-held thoughts over the years, Letis looked up at the customers queuing in the shop, once again grateful to her roommate who had given her infinite inspiration.

She wondered where Lolan was now. Her name was quite similar to that of a great sage in the country. Perhaps she was the sage’s disciple? But the sage had silver hair, whereas Lolan had black hair, and the sage certainly wouldn’t go to school.

Thinking this way, Lolan must have a close relationship with the sage, either as a student or a relative. If she continued to stay in the imperial capital, she believed she would eventually meet this roommate companion.

At that time, she would definitely express her gratitude to Lolan, as she finally had the opportunity to do what she loved and excelled at.

In just the first month, the “Exquisite Transformation” clothing store achieved great success, recouping all its initial investment. With the love and support of the Soland residents, the store’s reputation grew wider.

Soon, by the end of the year, Letis opened two more shops, both located within the giant city of Soland.

From dawn every day, the store was bustling with people vying to enter and select suitable, luxurious outfits.

Seeing this scene, many merchants in the city began to imitate her. Although initially unsuccessful or merely copies, as the shops expanded, Letis gradually faced some challenges.

Well, that’s how it had to be.

As similar shops and styles began to appear around her, Letis implemented her second plan: a complete overhaul of the shop’s decor.

Alchemical lighting, mechanical hooks for hanging clothes, changing rooms equipped with warm air devices, soundproof rest areas, and even toilets—all these alchemical installations provided great satisfaction to numerous customers, making them willing to wait in line for a few extra minutes without complaint.

Gradually, this once destitute young lady became a master in the fashion industry of Soland. Her designed clothes became increasingly expensive, with pieces hard to come by.

The name “Exquisite Alchemy—Letis” began to be widely known.

(End of Chapter)