Chapter 1: First Steps into the Unknown!
The first rays of dawn filtered through the narrow slits in the stone wall, casting thin strips of warm, golden light across the worn wooden floor that lay beyond their reach. The light was gentle and diffused, tinged with a soft orange hue that seeped into the room that barely penetrated the shadowed corners. The early morning glow revealed the room's modest furnishings: a few tattered blankets strewn across wooden beds, a small mirror on the center wall, and a single battered chest in the far corner.
In another corner of the room, a young figure stirred from their bedding. He paused for a moment, covering himself as best as he could, before beginning to lift himself up. Once he was fully seated, the young boy's lean physique became more apparent. It bore a semblance to those who were malnourished; his limbs were slender and slightly gaunt, with his ribcage faintly visible beneath his skin, reflecting his sparse diet.
The young boy's skin was as pale as freshly fallen snow, which gave him an ethereal appearance. His head was adorned with a shade of silver white that gleamed faintly in the dim light that slipped through the wall's opening.
As the boy sat up, he rubbed his eyes, trying to shake off the remnants of sleep. His gaze wandered around the room, taking in the unfamiliar yet otherworldly surroundings. He began to open his mouth.
"Wh...at, ummmm, what?" he muttered, his voice trembling with confusion.
The words he spoke hung in the cold morning air as a soft murmur of confusion. His voice, though barely above a whisper, seemed to echo in the stillness of the room. The boy's expression was one of disorientation, as if trying to reconcile the reality before him with the remnants of a fading dream.
Once those words left his lips. He began to scan the room with a mixture of curiosity and unease. They fell on the tattered blankets and the worn beds that laid before him. The battered chest in the corner held little promise of comfort or clarity for him.
He tried to remember the day before, but his mind was clouded with fragments of half-formed memories. It was as if he was waking up in a world he didn't fully understand, almost like a dream.
With a sigh, he swung his legs over the edge of the bed and stood, his bare feet brushing against the cold wooden floor. He shuffled over to the mirror hanging on the wall, the one that might help him process his surreal situation. As he approached it, he caught sight of his reflection once more; a boy with a slender build, pale skin, and striking silver-white hair. At last, when his eyes settled on his facial features, something strange drew his attention: a pair of deep red irises, almost the shade of stained blood.
The reflection stared back at him, and he couldn't help but feel a pang of loneliness. This was not just the reflection of a young boy struggling to fit in; it was the reflection of someone staring at a stranger.
As his eyes remained fixated on his reflection a chill of anxiety began to creep over him. The eerie stillness of the room only heightened his sense of alienation. He took a deep breath, trying to steady his racing thoughts. The fragmented memories and foreign surroundings pressed heavily on his mind, and he needed to piece together his situation.
He reached out a trembling hand to touch the cold, cracked surface of the mirror, half-expecting the image to shatter and reveal something more familiar. His fingers traced the outlines of his gaunt face and the unusual coloration of his eyes. Each detail seemed more surreal than the last.
"Who am I? Where am I?" He whispered as he also began questioning the situation to himself.
'This clearly isn't my home and that clearly isn't me. So, what has happened exactly!? C-could I have transmigrated?! I had a perfectly great life back on Earth!'
He knew he wouldn't get answers by contemplating.
He turned away from his reflection, before his eyes wandered across the room once more. He found no comfort in any of the worn furniture and stone walls. As he moved back to the center of the room, his mind raced through fragments of memories, none of which made sense in the context of this strange, new world. The only certainty he had was that he was utterly alone, and with no immediate answers to the questions echoing in his mind.
He took one deep breath before deciding he had to figure out what to do next. So with a determined resolve, he moved his legs towards the battered chest in the corner. It was worn and old, its surface covered in a thin layer of dust. He hesitated for a moment before prying it open.
Inside, he found a few basic items: a set of simple clothes, a weathered book, and a pair of worn boots. His first thoughts were to pull out the patched gray tunic and pull it over his shoulders. The next step was the book that seemed bound in leather so he picked it up and opened it. Its pages were filled with handwritten notes and sketches. He flipped through it, hoping to find something useful.
Instead all he found was scribbled notes in a language he couldn't immediately recognize yet, he seemed to oddly enough be able read the notes.
As he sifted through the book's contents, he heard the faint sound of voices and footsteps coming from outside the room. The noise was a stark reminder that he wasn't alone in this unfamiliar world. The realization that he needed to understand his surroundings and find answers grew more urgent.
He closed the book, his fingers brushing over the unfamiliar symbols, and quickly dressed in the simple clothes from the chest. The tattered tunic hung loosely on his frame while the boots remained tight, but it was better than the thin blanket.
'At least, I'm clothed. Now, the sounds.' He thought.
He began to move towards the sounds which were beyond the door at the end of the room. His heart pounded in his chest as he reached for the handle. He hesitated for a moment, glancing back at the room that had highlighted his initial confusion and isolation. Then, with a deep breath, he opened the door and stepped into the corridor beyond.
The corridor was dimly lit and lined with similar doors. As he walked he passed the doors that seemed to lead to rooms just like the one he had left. The soft murmur of voices grew clearer and louder in pitch as he walked. The end of the corridor had guided him toward a common area. The building seemed old but managed but its stone walls did bear the markings of time.
As he approached the source of the voices, he caught sight of a group of other children and adults engaged in their morning routine. They glanced at him with a mix of curiosity and indifference, their expressions revealing little of their thoughts. The unfamiliar faces and the murmurs of conversation only deepened his sense of displacement.
A tall, stern-looking woman with a no-nonsense demeanor spotted him and made her way over. Her eyes, though warm, were scrutinizing. "Finally up and about, Gaud," she said, her voice gruff but not unkind. "You have the initiation ceremony today. Make sure you're ready. The others have already left."
"Why are you being nice to him, Sister Alma?" piped up a young voice from the group of children gathered nearby.
A boy, no older than ten, with a mop of unruly hair and a mischievous grin, stepped forward. "Yeah, we usually have to wait for everyone else to get ready," he said, his tone half-serious, half-playful.
Another child, a girl with braided hair and a serious expression, nodded in agreement. "Most of us were up at dawn. It's not fair for him to get special treatment."
A third child, a younger boy with a freckled face, chimed in with curiosity, "What's the initiation like? Is it true that the Aether Stream is a liquid? Does everyone join the academy?"
Gaud's heart skipped a beat at the mention of his name. 'Gaud, so that's my name? Or, whoever this body is?' He quietly thought to himself.
Sister Alma's gaze softened slightly as she looked down at the children. "Gaud is preparing for a significant step in his journey," she explained, her voice firm but carrying a hint of warmth. "He's been here for a while, but the initiation ceremony is a critical moment for everyone, new or not. It's important that he's well-prepared for this."
The girl with the braids gave Gaud an encouraging nod and thumbs up. "Don't worry," she said softly, "You'll do fine. Just listen and follow the instructions. It's not as scary as it seems, trust me."
The children's voices continued to murmur around him. "Do you think he'll awaken?" one whispered to another, their excitement barely contained. "Or will he be like the others who didn't?"
The children's eyes widened with a mix of awe and curiosity. "I mean his appearance is different so maybe that means he has a chance or something," one child said, a hint of awe in their voice. "But… I guess we'll see what happens."
Sister Alma turned her attention back to the child, her gaze softening slightly as she spoke. "The Aether Stream is indeed a liquid; however, it's called by another name here, the Revelation Sanctum." She explained. "But it's much more than that. It's a powerful essence that can reveal hidden potentials in individuals. As for joining the academy, not everyone who undergoes the initiation becomes a Super. It's a process of discovery and potential."
The freckled boy looked fascinated. "So, if Gaud has a chance, will the Revelation Sanctum show it?"
The children listened intently, their expressions a mix of curiosity and anticipation. Another child chimed in, "What's the initiation like? Is it really as intense as they say?"
Sister Alma's eyes narrowed slightly at the mention of "awakening" but she did not address it directly. Instead, she continued with a steady tone. "For many, the initiation is a pivotal moment. It's when potential Supers are tested and recognized. If you have latent potential, this ceremony will reveal them."
Her words seemed to carry unspoken expectations. Gaud glanced around, noticing the children and adults eyeing him with varying degrees of interest.
As Sister Alma and the children spoke, Gaud's mind raced, connecting the dots between her explanations and the knowledge he had from reading a certain novel, The Legendary Mechanic! The term "Super" immediately triggered a memory. He recalled the passages about a fictional world where individuals could possess extraordinary powers, much like those from Marvel or DC comics. The realization hit him like a jolt: this place, this initiation ceremony, the Revelation Sanctum - it was all straight out of the novel he had read!
Sister Alma, noticing Gaud's contemplative expression, placed a hand on his shoulder, breaking him from his thoughts.
"Gaud," she said, her tone now carrying a note of personal encouragement, "It's important to approach this ceremony with an open mind and a steady heart. The Revelation Sanctum will reveal much, but how you face it is just as crucial."
Gaud nodded absently, his mind still stuck on the implications of what he had learned. He remembered the characters from The Legendary Mechanic. The thought that he might have a role to play in this world, just as Han Xiao had in the story, both thrilled and terrified him.
As Sister Alma's words echoed in his mind, Gaud's thoughts swirled with excitement and apprehension. He took a deep breath, trying to steady himself amidst the new information and emotions.
Sister Alma's gaze was steady and supportive, as if she could sense his inner turmoil. "You're not alone in this, Gaud," she said softly. "Many have walked this path before you, and they've faced their own fears and uncertainties."
'No offensive, Sister Alma, but I think only me and Han have faced this path before me! No worries, Han, you aren't alone in this! You aren't the only one SAO-ed!'
Gaud nodded in response to Sister Alma, though his mind was still racing with thoughts. In a moment of focus, Gaud realized something he had forgotten about!
'Wait, Status screen!'
—------------------------[Status]—---------------------------
Name: Gaud
Model: NPC (Countdown to Version 1.0 launch: 358 Days, 11 Hours.)
Level: 1
Race: Esper Ability Homunculus (Humanoid)
Main Class: N/A
Sub-Class: [Villager Lv. 1] (0/50)
Health: 20/20
Stamina: 24/24
Energy: 0 (LV.0)
Attributes: STR 1, DEX 2, END 2, INT 3, MYS 3, CHA 5, LCK 5
Free Attributes Points: 0
Potential Points: 0
Power Level: 1 ~ 3 Ona
Grade: F
Abilities: None
Skills: None
Talents:
[Albinism] - Talent: Your distinctive appearance captivates those around you but also alienates you. +5% to CHA and a -15% reduction in Favorability Gain.
[Synthetic Esper] - Talent: Your meticulously engineered genetic disposition excels at harnessing and amplifying genetic expression. This sophisticated design guarantees the awakening of an Esper Ability, and ensures that the Potential Grade of the Esper Ability is increased by one.
Influence: 10
Reputation: 0
[Pathetic whelp with a Combat Rating of 3; find any random passerby and they'll defeat you effortlessly, over and over. You wouldn't last a single round! Not even a single round!]
—------------------------[Status]—---------------------------
'On second thought, this name seems oddly familiar? Wait, isn't this Esgod's second account!? He shouldn't exist so early, or well more accurately I shouldn't exist yet!'
This dilemma seemed to have put Gaud's thoughts to a complete stop. As the information the status screen showed illustrates that anomalies and changes to the original story have already occurred.
'If I'm Gaud then does that mean Esgod has already ordained my presence on this planet? If I remember correctly, the information regarding Gaud's existence in the novel was kept a close guarded secret. The three Universal Civilizations didn't even have a clue! In fact, I think Esgod killed everyone involved!'
'Well, all the implications aside. Esgod knows of my existence and my case is probably quite special for him; a fail safe. If I'm to survive I must assume at all moments I am known by Esgod but, hopefully I have some insurance concerning my future? I can only hope after all he wouldn't take his own creation's Esper Ability, right? Better yet, he better not take my body!'
As Gaud was having these thoughts concerning his survival. He couldn't help glancing at the status again but this time he focused his view on the race and the talents tab.
'Esper Ability Homunculus. Mmm, certainly puts into perspective how much Esgod prepared for his eventual rebirth. Let's see, could the system show me the specifics regarding it, maybe?'
—------------------------—---------------------------
[Esper Ability Homunculus (Humanoid)] - The Esper Ability Homunculi is an artificial species that was engineered with a unique genetic disposition to serve as a vessel for a Esper Ability. Its origin remains enigmatic, but its purpose is unequivocal; to maximize and harmonize with the potential of their embedded Esper Ability.
—------------------------—---------------------------
'Well I think that settles it. Esgod has had this vessel preserved or prepared for quite some time. Quite the dangerous individual.'
Once Gaud was done reading the description of his race he moved his gaze toward the two talents.
'[Albinism] seems to be a rather redundant talent. Although, maybe I could emulate the Feidin charm. It's sadly however, definitely gonna affect my career in social management. It seems I might have to work extra hard to develop my relationships. It also confirms where my odd appearance comes from.'
'The major oddity has to be the talent [Synthetic Esper] which could only mean Esgod wasn't able to complete the High Risk Esper Ability - [Energy Control]. That means it couldn't have been implemented into my body's genetic code. It's much too early. Even still, this talent is practically a godsend for any normal Esper minus the artificially created body.'
'The description of [Synthetic Esper] indicates that I'll awaken to an Esper Ability, but I'm left wondering what that might entail. This Revelation Sanctum seems to hold the key to answering those questions at least now according to Sister Alma. It reinforces the idea that I'm destined to become an Esper, whether I embrace it or not.'
'Well, at least I've got a golden finger unlike a certain someone… who am I kidding! I'm the first meal on Esgod's appetite!'
Gaud's eyes narrowed as he absorbed the grim details of the status screen and his own dark thoughts. It confirmed his worst fears: he was not just a passive observer in a novel but an active participant in a world where he needed to tread carefully.
He turned back to Sister Alma, his determination hardening. "Thank you, Sister Alma. I'll try to do my best."
Sister Alma's expression grew contemplative. "Not everyone who enters the Revelation Sanctum will necessarily become a Super. Some find their path in other ways, or perhaps their potential remains dormant. The initiation is as much about self-discovery as it is about awakening."
Before he could respond, Sister Alma's tone softened. "Come along, Gaud. I'll get you where you need to go, but after that, the journey is yours to navigate."
Sister Alma and Gaud both said goodbye to the children and adults as they began walking through corridors once again. As they approached a set of heavy wooden doors, Gaud's heart pounded with uneasiness and excitement.
He couldn't shake the feeling that he was standing at the precipice of a grand adventure. An adventure which wouldn't test only his foreknowledge but also his very essence. Each step closer to the doors felt like a step closer to a new chapter, one filled with endless possibilities and untold challenges.
Sister Alma sensed his hesitation and gently placed a hand on his shoulder. "Gaud," she said softly. "Before you step out into the streets, remember this: initiation is about understanding yourself as much as it is about revealing your potential. The world outside is filled with opportunities, challenges, and danger. You'll need to navigate the path before you with a clear sense of who you are and what you want to become."
Her words brought a small measure of calm to Gaud's swirling emotions. The realization that this world was more than a fictional tale began to settle in; it was now his reality.
"It's natural to feel nervous," Sister Alma continued, "But every person who steps into the wider world has their own doubts and fears. What matters is your courage to face them and your willingness to embrace whatever comes your way."
He turned back to Sister Alma, his determination solidifying. "Thank you, Sister Alma. I'll keep your words in mind."
As the doors creaked open, the fresh cold air and sounds of the bustling street greeted them. Gaud felt a surge of determination mixed with anxiety. Whatever lay beyond those doors, he had to be ready to face it. The adventure awaited, and he was about to step into it.
CREATORS' THOUGHTS 
Kianx0
Kianx0 Hello to everyone who has reached the end of this chapter! I appreciate your time and support.
For now, I’m not planning to post any updates for a while, as I need some time to work on future chapters. This release is just a preview of the first chapter and a glimpse of what’s to come.
My goal is to craft this fanfic to the best of my abilities, so I ask for your patience as I continue working on it.
Thank you again for reading, and I hope you enjoyed this chapter. Until next time!
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