As the impact of the truck struck me, an agonizing pain surged through my body. Memories of my life played out like a fleeting montage before my eyes. An existence marked by monotony and solitude; 25 years old and 15 years without friends. I hadn't known the warmth of an embrace, the company of a friend, or the touch of a girl. Despite the pain, I couldn't help but laugh at my own foolishness and pathetic circumstances. How had I allowed myself to become such a pitiful figure?
Amid my laughter, a tunnel of blinding white light appeared before me. So, this was the famed light that people spoke of when nearing death. But as I traversed this ethereal passage, darkness overtook my senses, replaced by a comforting warmth that enveloped me like a tender embrace.
When I awoke, I found myself in an unfamiliar bed, the sterile surroundings unfamiliar. Was this the afterlife? A muttered inquiry to myself as I explored the grey and dimly lit room, searching for meaning. Uncertainty gripped me; I had expected something grander, perhaps an angelic guide to lead me forth. Time stretched on, each moment a prolonged anticipation, but nothing unfolded. Could it be that I wasn't truly dead? I protested against this possibility; after all, I distinctly recalled the truck's impact, the chaos, and my last fleeting thoughts.
Impatience and doubt led me to a nearby mirror, where a stranger's face met my gaze—a man with sharp, purplish eyes, dark hair, and a handsome countenance. Panic surged through me, my hand trembling as I picked up a knife, testing the reality by pricking my finger. Pain flared, a clear indication that this was no dream.
Amid my disbelief, a sinister laughter bubbled forth, echoing in the empty room. The reality was absurd, my laughter bordering on madness. Alone in my hysteria, I was grateful for the solitude; otherwise, concerned voices might have called the authorities. Yet even after confirming my physicality, I struggled to fully accept the situation.
Rising from the bed, I moved towards the door, my heartbeat racing. I inhaled deeply, bracing myself for the unknown. With a determined exhale, I pushed the door open, only to be confronted by another gray door. My hopes dashed, frustration and embarrassment mingled within me. Collecting my resolve, I approached the actual door, taking a deep breath before finally opening it, ready to confront whatever awaited me—whether it was the afterlife or a new realm of possibilities.
Opening the door, I was greeted by a medieval landscape, with huts and large houses dotting the surroundings. "Wow, it's so beautiful," I marveled. I couldn't believe that transmigration could be real; I thought such impossible things only happened in novels. But once again, fate proved me wrong. Without wasting any time, I retreated back into the apartment, closed the door, and began to look around. My wallet and student ID caught my attention. "What's this? 50 Zeli?" I pondered, glancing at my student ID: "Cian Eldwood, Etherstar Academy, Ranking: 1568." Was I really in an etherstar academy? Etherstar Academy? No, it couldn't be true. I erupted into a fit of maniacal laughter, finding the situation utterly absurd. "Ahahahhhaa...haaaa! I can't believe it! I've been transferred into that novel? Seriously, just how?" I continued to laugh uncontrollably.
After regaining my composure, I examined my reflection in the mirror. Dark hair, pale skin, purplish-blue eyes, and a slightly tall and frail physique. This wasn't the character I wrote. If this was truly my novel, "The Dangers of Celesterra," then I might have a slight advantage. I needed to check the date, but as I searched for my mobile phone, I realized I didn't have one. How could I be an Etherlight student without a mobile phone? Embarrassing. Grabbing my wallet, I headed outside. With 50 Zeli,I could purchase a basic mobile phone and use my allowance from Etherstar Academy. The beauty of palpea City, known for its treehouses and proximity to the ocean, surrounded me. It was the perfect place for tourism.
However, my first priority was acquiring that item. It was neither risky nor too demanding, but a mobile phone was a necessity. Who knew, maybe I had family or friends here? Entering a quaint shop adorned with wooden and stone motifs, a charming elven woman approached me. "Hello, welcome to Darthmust Shop. We offer a variety of technological wonders to enhance your journey through Nexoria. Uh, hello?" Her words washed over me, momentarily entranced by her elegance. With her long ears, flowing brown hair, and hourglass figure, she seemed almost otherworldly. Regaining my focus, I responded, "H-hello. I'm interested in the most affordable communication device you have." My confidence wavered a bit. She considered my request, "For the modest price of 40 Zeli, you can acquire our basic mobile communication device. Would that be suitable?" The affordability surprised me, but options were limited. "Yes, that will work." She kindly directed me to find a seat and wait for about five minutes, assuring me that she would retrieve the chosen device.
As I settled down, my thoughts turned to the uncharted journey ahead, both uncertain and intriguing.
Your gift is the motivation for my creation. Give me more motivation!