World view: steampunk, alternate history
Imagine a world that never uses electricity. The machines built by humans were originally driven by water, wind, or labor. But 1,000 years ago, people discovered a substance called "water of life" that could make machines rotate on their own. People saw it as a powerful force of nature, which gave birth to a religion and cosmology that was completely different from what we have today. Today, Pau (one of the origins of "Eau de Life") has once again achieved a mechanical breakthrough.
Pau received tons of money and flash.
The protagonist, a down-and-out playwright, comes upon hearing this. "I" met a group of very talented young people. They are not gullible about fame and fortune and want to pursue the truth themselves. Continuing the investigation along the "Water of Life" involves too many entanglements of interests.
Church, academy, center... Each group has its own position.
Is there truth behind the hypocrisy?
If there is no truth, what can guide the way forward?
Tip: The plot is very ups and downs, so readers please fasten your seat belts~
Purpose: Seeking truth