Before you delve into this tale, there's one crucial detail you must grasp: I'm dead, yet somehow, I'm alive. It all began with my awakening amidst a dense forest. I should have been lying in a hospital bed, awaiting my inevitable demise. The last thing I recalled was being sedated for surgery. When consciousness returned, I was greeted by the symphony of birdsong, the invigorating chill of the breeze, and the calming scent of moss.

Even more perplexing, I found myself not in my own body, but in that of a completely different person. This body was far taller, with long, fiery red hair, skin as white and smooth as a baby's, and platinum eyes that almost glowed neon. As I stared at my reflection in a puddle, I was rendered speechless.

Like any sane individual, I questioned this reality. There was a high probability that this was merely a dream, or perhaps I had found myself in heaven. However, I was skeptical of the latter, as I was certain I didn't qualify for heaven's entry. Sinful individuals like me couldn't possibly have a place there.

But alas, or perhaps fortunately, this was no dream. I couldn't wake up, and the sting on my cheek when I pinched it felt real.

As I began to accept my new reality, a flood of information surged into my mind. This info packet explained the powers I had acquired, along with cultivation techniques akin to the wuxia novels I often devoured.

Instantly, thoughts of a ROB (Random Omnipotent Being) crossed my mind. Isekai scenarios could indeed introduce various possibilities, but my newfound powers were clearly the handiwork of a ROB. I wasn't sure why I deserved this, but I accepted it with utmost gratitude.

A surge of gratitude washed over me, only to be replaced by a throbbing headache that felt like my skull was being squeezed in a vice. A torrent of information about everything I laid eyes on flooded my mind, from the towering trees to the blades of grass and even the fallen leaves. Each detail, however insignificant, felt like a sharp jab to my brain.

I quickly realized the source of this overwhelming sensation: one of the abilities bestowed upon me, the Mystic Eyes of Reason. These mystical eyes granted me an unparalleled understanding of anything I perceived. Thankfully, this information overload came with an instinctive ability to control the eyes' power. By deactivating their active function, the flood of information subsided, though it didn't cease entirely. At least, the situation was now bearable.

My memory started to blur as I tried to piece together my thoughts and figure out how to survive in this wilderness. I had nothing but the clothes on my back, but I wasn't overly concerned. I still had my trusty [Shroud of Power: Volcanic], a versatile piece of gear that could transform into a weapon and provide warmth with its fire element, eliminating the need for me to build a campfire.

However, my worries were soon put to rest as I stumbled upon a settlement. It turned out to be a small village, inhabited by only a few dozen people. My emotions were a mixed bag upon discovering this village. On one hand, I was relieved to find civilization. On the other hand, I couldn't help but feel a sense of resignation at the sight of their seemingly primitive technology.

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I found myself stranded in a world that seemed plucked straight out of a medieval fantasy novel. Judging by the cultivation technique I got, I was pretty sure I had landed in ancient China. Unlike my expectations, the villagers welcomed me with open arms, albeit with a hint of caution due to my unusual appearance. After a few days, it dawned on me that they mistook me for a runaway noble. My fancy attire and anime-like features had certainly led them astray.

An elderly man, presumably the village chief, emerged to greet me. Adopting the customs of this seemingly ancient Chinese society, I introduced myself as Lie Yan, meaning "Blazing Flame." I then explained my predicament, stating that I had regained consciousness in the forest near their village with no recollection of my past. I could tell he doubted my story but was too hesitant to call me out on it. I didn't bother correcting his assumption either.

The man then led me to a house. "Is it okay to give me a place like this?" I asked, peering at the weathered structure.

"It's no trouble, sir. This house has been abandoned for a few months. It used to be the home of a skilled blacksmith. The only heir to this place is his apprentice, but he left for the city after the blacksmith died," he replied, his voice echoing in the empty space.

With no further questions, I expressed my gratitude. "Sir, may I ask how long you are planing on staying in this village?" he inquired before leaving.

"I'm not sure exactly. Would it be okay if I stayed here longer? I can help with any work," I suggested, hoping for a positive response.

Initially, he seemed hesitant, but eventually, he said, "Are you willing to help out in the rice fields?"

I nodded enthusiastically. "Of course, I'd be happy to help. And there's no need to pay me with money; accommodation and food are enough." I had long dreamed of living in the countryside, though I wasn't sure if I could handle the work of a farmer.

Hearing that, he smiled warmly. "You can clean up your new house and rest for today. Tomorrow, just come to the rice paddies." With that, he turned and disappeared into the gathering dusk.

The house was far from what I had envisioned. There were no separate rooms, just one large open space reminiscent of a traditional Japanese home. A fireplace stood in the center, the only distinguishing feature being the sheer size of the room and the bare earthen floor near the hearth and ironwork.

Dust coated every surface, thick and heavy, demanding a full day's labor to clear. As the sun reached its zenith, the village headman returned, bearing blankets and pillows.

"We apologize for the meager accommodations," he offered, his expression unreadable. I caught a flicker of wariness in his eyes, a caution perhaps ingrained in all those who encountered nobility in this world.

"No need to apologize," I replied. "You've helped me a lot. I couldn't ask for more. Oh, by the way, where can I take a bath?" While I could cleanse myself with the shroud, it would be suspicious if I still looked like I hadn't showered.

"There's a river north of the village, not far from here. You can clean your clothes and bathe there," he replied.

After thanking him again, the village headman left. The sun had set by the time I finished cleaning the house. My body wasn't tired, but my mind was. With the shroud, I wiped away the remaining dust that had settled. Then, I took a blanket and pillow, placed them on the floor, and fell asleep.