《The Man》


 Chapter 1 - An Unexpected Beginning

    Chapter 1 - An Unexpected Beginning


    In the bustling metropolis of London, the year was 2023, and it was just another day in the life of Edward Latez. As the early morning sun cast its gentle glow over the city, Edward, a barista by profession, embarked on his familiar daily commute. The rhythmic hum of urban life filled the air as he navigated the bustling streets.


    However, this seemingly ordinary day would soon take a most extraordinary turn. Edward''s attention was torn from his smartphone screen by an abrupt and vivid red light that appeared seemingly out of nowhere. His reflexes kicked in, and he slammed on the brakes, bringing his car to an abrupt halt.


    As he peered through the windshield, trying to fathom the inexplicable sight before him, his world was plunged into surreal chaos. Three massive trucks hurtled toward him at an alarming speed. Panic gripped him, and he couldn''t help but exclaim, "Oh, shit, a truck!"


    In the blink of an eye, the impending collision was upon him. But when Edward dared to open his eyes, he found himself standing in a starkly contrasting environment¡ªa bright white room that seemed to defy the laws of space and time. Before him stood a figure, dark and mysterious, its form shifting and indescribable, emanating an aura of enigmatic dread. A wave of terror washed over Edward.


    "Who are you?" he stammered, his voice trembling with a mixture of fear and curiosity.


    The black figure smiled, its expression as inscrutable as its form, and replied, "Me? I am >--|--<."


    Perplexed by the cryptic response, Edward ventured, "Sorry, but could you clarify that?"


    The figure''s smile faded, and it spoke with an air of enigmatic authority, "You wouldn''t be able to comprehend it anyway. Let''s move on. You''re familiar with the theme, right?"


    Edward''s mind raced as he considered the figure''s words. "Which theme are you referring to?" he finally inquired.


    "In Isekai manga," the figure explained, "the ones where people are transported to other worlds with all sorts of powers."


    Understanding dawned on Edward, and he nodded. "Yes, of course, gaining an overpowered ability and being isekai''d."


    The black figure chuckled softly. "Yes, an overpowered ability indeed."


    Without warning, a black panel materialized before Edward, presenting two ominous options: "YES" and "NO."


    Without hesitation, Edward pressed "YES" enthusiastically, his curiosity piqued. "Well, nice! I''m getting isekai''d," he exclaimed.


    In an instant, Edward vanished, leaving behind the white room and the enigmatic figure, who burst into laughter, thoroughly amused by Edward''s gullibility. "What a fool! He actually believed it was a gift," the figure taunted.


    As Edward found himself in an entirely new place, he wasted no time in shouting, "STATUS!" Yet, to his dismay, nothing appeared before him. He repeated the word "STATUS!" repeatedly, growing increasingly frustrated with each futile attempt, until he lost hope of obtaining any overpowered ability.


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    "That deceitful son of a bitch lied to me," Edward muttered, sighing heavily. "Well, this isn''t the first time I''ve encountered such problems anyway."


    But his momentary frustration was interrupted by a sudden and sharp pain. An arrow had sliced through his shoulder, causing him to cry out in agony. To his astonishment, the wound closed up instantly, without any lingering pain or blood.


    Edward quickly turned to identify his assailant¡ªa goblin, armed with a bow and a malicious grin. Ignoring the injury, he scanned his surroundings and spotted a stone nearby. Determined, he snatched it up, hoping to close the distance and strike the goblin.


    However, the goblin proved to be just as cunning as Edward. It fired a second arrow, grazing Edward''s right cheek. Edward, without noticing the wound from the goblin''s arrow, went straight for the creature and, to his knowledge, delivered a relentless barrage of blows. However, the wound had miraculously healed, unbeknownst to him.


    Yet, as quickly as his victory had come, Edward was overwhelmed by an inexplicable wave of exhaustion. His vision blurred, and he sank into a deep and unbidden slumber.


    When he finally awoke, it was to a world shrouded in darkness, punctuated by eerie and unsettling sounds that sent shivers down his spine. "Where am I?" he wondered aloud.


    A peculiar and unsettling noise caught his attention, intensifying his sense of unease. "What was that sound?" he exclaimed, his anxiety mounting.


    Desperate for answers, Edward shouted into the abyss, "IS ANYONE THERE?"


    As his voice echoed into the darkness, the eerie sounds seemed to draw nearer, creeping ever closer from the inky void. Filled with an overpowering sense of dread, Edward bolted away, driven by the primal instinct to escape the unknown. After what felt like an agonizing eternity, he spotted a faint glimmer of light ahead and raced toward it, hope and desperation guiding his way.


    As he approached the source of light, figures emerged from the shadows, their presence a welcome relief to Edward. He wasted no time in beseeching them for answers. "Can you please tell me where I am?"


    But as his eyes met the group that had materialized before him, he realized with a sudden jolt that ten thieves had someone captive. Edward''s logic and beliefs crumbled in the face of this bewildering reality, and he acted on instinct, impulsively lashing out with a punch aimed squarely at one of the thieves.


    The thieves, momentarily taken aback by Edward''s unexpected aggression, barely had time to react before he struck again with another swift blow.


    "HOLD THAT FUCKING BASTARD!" one of the thieves shouted, and they retaliated with a fierce counterattack. Edward soon found himself overwhelmed as one of the thieves seized his arm, rendering him powerless to fend them off. In the midst of the chaos, one of the thieves drew a menacing sword and plunged it into Edward''s chest.


    Edward gasped in pain, but to his astonishment, the wound closed up rapidly, leaving no trace of injury. Overcome by a surge of adrenaline, he managed to wrest the thief''s sword from his waist, driving it into the thief''s leg before swinging a second blade at his neck.


    The thief fell lifeless to the ground, and Edward''s injuries miraculously healed once more, this time without the torment of pain. With newfound strength and clarity, he continued his rampage, mercilessly dispatching the remaining thieves.


    Only one thief remained, crawling and pleading for salvation. Desperation marked his voice as he cried out, "PLEASE, ANYONE, HELP ME!"


    Summoning every ounce of his strength, Edward seized a sword and flung it with unerring accuracy, striking the final thief''s head. As life ebbed from the thief, Edward was struck by the surreal nature of his newfound abilities.


    With the thieves vanquished, he turned his attention to the captive figure, whose identity had remained concealed beneath a hood. As he removed the hood, his eyes widened in astonishment and curiosity. Before him lay a beautiful young girl, her distinctive cat ears revealing her unique nature.


    Edward couldn''t help but grin, his world forever changed by this unexpected and extraordinary journey.


    CHAPTER 1 END

 Chapter 2 - 3 Companions in the Unknown

    Chapter 2 - An Unlikely Alliance


    Edward, still lost in the swirling maelstrom of his own thoughts about the uncertainties of his future, remained oblivious to Luna''s initial apprehension. He sat in contemplation, his mind a whirlwind of questions and doubts. Luna, on the other hand, regarded him with a palpable degree of wariness, her initial fear causing her to keep her distance.


    Minutes ticked by, and their silent exchange continued. Luna, unable to shake off the fear that had gripped her upon waking in this unfamiliar place, couldn''t help but study Edward closely. She observed how he seemed engrossed in his own musings, his attention fixed on some distant and internal horizon. Her wariness gradually began to ebb as she sensed no immediate threat from the man beside her.


    The passing moments prompted Luna to tentatively inch closer, her curiosity overcoming her initial fear. With cautious movements, she settled down beside Edward, finding a spot on the ground that felt safe enough. Gathering her courage, she ventured to ask the question that had been on her mind since her abrupt awakening. "Who are you?"


    Their encounter, once marked by wariness and fear, had now transformed into a fragile alliance, much like a delicate sapling taking root in the heart of an enigmatic forest. Luna, still acclimating to the bewildering circumstances that had thrust her into Edward''s company, offered a shy apology for her initial fear. She then began to share more about herself, revealing that she was Luna Asterio, the daughter of the Chief of the Demi-Cat Tribes.


    Her description painted a picture of a woman with a slim, 5''5" frame, and a cup size that was quite substantial¡ªF, to be exact. Edward couldn''t help but feel a pang of disappointment upon learning of her royal lineage, as he had hoped for a more ordinary encounter. Meeting a princess in this unfamiliar world had the potential to complicate their situation in unforeseen ways.


    The enigma of their current location lingered in the air, as Luna appeared equally clueless about the forest surrounding them. Edward pondered the dilemma for a moment, but no immediate solution presented itself. With nightfall approaching, they agreed to make camp for the night, intent on devising a plan to determine their whereabouts.


    As darkness descended, they split up to search for shelter, and after a few hours, they stumbled upon a cave. However, Edward harbored reservations about taking refuge within, voicing his concerns. "What if this cave is teeming with monsters? I mean, this is another world, and my knowledge is limited." Yet, with night rapidly encroaching and no other viable option, they reluctantly entered the cave. Edward ventured inside to investigate, and to their relief, the cave was devoid of any hostile inhabitants. They settled in for the night.


    Chapter 3 - The City of Mysteries


    Days turned into weeks, and still, there was no sign of other people in this vast, unfamiliar land. Their hope began to wane as the desolation weighed heavily on their spirits, and Edward couldn''t help but voice his frustrations. "Is there really any sign of humans out here? I''m tired, Luna, too tired for all of this."


    As these thoughts gnawed at Edward''s mind, a sudden obstacle loomed before them. Walls, towering and seemingly insurmountable, appeared seemingly out of nowhere. He paused in bewilderment, pondering the unexpected appearance of these formidable barriers. However, Luna''s piercing scream abruptly shattered the silence, echoing through the air. Her cry was so loud that Edward couldn''t bear the sound, quickly covering his ears. Yet, amidst the noise, a realization struck him: "City? A city!"


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    Hope surged within him as he set his eyes upon the city walls in the distance. Luna, her excitement uncontainable, sprinted toward the city gates, driven by the prospect of sanctuary and the promise of civilization.


    However, Edward''s caution got the better of him. Fearing that their sudden appearance might be misunderstood as a threat, he moved swiftly to intercept Luna. He grabbed her arm firmly, resisting her attempts to reach the city gates. Luna, her frustration boiling over, shouted, "WHY DID YOU STOP ME!"


    Edward''s voice was urgent as he tried to make her understand the potential dangers, "Goddamn it, stop! They might see us as bandits or enemies."


    Luna absorbed his reasoning, albeit reluctantly, and realized he had a point. "Then why don''t we approach the city gates calmly," she suggested.


    Edward sighed in exasperation but nodded in agreement. "That''s exactly what I was going to suggest, dumbass."


    Still, Luna couldn''t let the moment pass without a parting shot. "Don''t call me ''dumbass'' again."


    Edward chuckled. "Lol."


    Perplexed by the unfamiliar slang, Luna inquired, "What does ''lol'' mean?"


    Edward shrugged. "It''s just a slang term. Don''t worry about it."


    With their resolve renewed, they approached the city gates cautiously. Luna''s curiosity was piqued by the grandeur of the city and the sight of countless people bustling about. The metropolis was unlike anything she had ever seen, with its floating castle and labyrinthine roads.


    As they continued their march, they noticed a long line of people waiting patiently to gain entry into the city. Even Luna was taken aback by the sight. Edward seized the opportunity to strike up a conversation with a fellow human, eager for connection in this strange land. He approached one of the people in line and inquired, "Hey, where have you all come from?"


    Instead of receiving an answer, the citizen fixed Edward with a tired yet menacing gaze¡ªa thousand-yard stare that sent a shiver down his spine. It was a look he had encountered before during his time as a field medical doctor in Afghanistan, a gaze that spoke of unspeakable horrors.


    The man ignored his question, and as the line of people slowly dwindled, it eventually reached Edward and Luna. A guard approached, his scrutiny unwavering as he posed a series of questions to Edward. "Are you from any kingdom, village, or city?" he began.


    Edward replied, "No, sir. I came from a village."


    The guard pressed for details. "Where is this village, and does it have a name?"


    "It''s to the south, and, um, the village doesn''t have a name," Edward replied, mixing truth with carefully crafted falsehoods.


    The guard continued his inquiry. "How old are you, and what is your occupation? Is this your first time in this country or city?"


    Edward provided his age. "I''m 21, and my major is inventing various things. Yes, it''s my first time in this country."


    The guard, his curiosity unabated, then turned his attention to Luna, whose beauty did not go unnoticed. He inquired, "And who is this beautiful demi-cat beside you?"


    Edward answered without hesitation. "Oh, she''s my friend."


    With the questioning finally over, the guard directed them to a counter to register their citizenship. Edward approached the man at the counter and requested the necessary forms. Both he and Luna filled them out, offering a mix of truth and deception.


    However, the final step took them by surprise. The guard asked them to spill a few droplets of their blood onto the forms. Edward hesitated but complied, and Luna followed suit. The guard explained, "Each person''s blood is unique."


    With the bizarre ritual completed, the same guard who had questioned them earlier allowed them entry into the city with surprising ease. As they passed through the city gates, a bustling metropolis stretched out before them, filled with people, music, and a sense of lively activity.


    Their journey into the city marked the beginning of new mysteries and challenges in this captivating world.


    CHAPTER 3 END

 Chapter 4 - A Night at the Hazy Inn

    Chapter 4 - A Night at the Hazy Inn


    Luna couldn''t contain her joy at the sight of the bustling city. "Hey, why don''t we look around, Edward?" she suggested with enthusiasm.


    "Alright, I''ll be with you in a moment," Edward replied. As he took a step, something was triggered, and he felt it, causing him to pause.


    "Hey! Why did you pause again?" Luna inquired, a hint of impatience in her voice.


    "N-Nothing, nothing at all. Let''s continue," Edward stammered, his focus still divided.


    As they explored the city, they encountered a diverse array of beings¡ªpeople, demi-cats, and individuals with horns on their heads.


    "Hey, Luna," Edward began, "Why don''t we find an Inn to stay the night and talk about our situation later?"


    Luna''s face lit up with a smile. "Sure!" she replied, her eagerness evident. Edward couldn''t help but return her smile.


    As the sun dipped below the horizon, both of them were momentarily lost, feeling like children in this new and wondrous place. Their momentary lapses into childish wonder were in contrast to their adulthood.


    "Why don''t we go ask someone?" Edward suggested, his tone slightly embarrassed.


    Luna agreed, equally bashful. "Yeah, sure."


    Approaching a nearby citizen, Edward inquired, "Uhmm, hey there. By any chance, do you know of any Inns around here?"


    The citizen responded, "Oh yeah, uhh, take a straight path and then turn left when you see a Saloon having a Elves sculptured on their post. Keep going until you find an Inn named ''Hazy Inn.'' I recommend trying the pork chop dinner there; it''s delicious and filling."


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    "Thanks," Edward replied. "Here, take this."


    The citizen waved off his offer. "Nah, it''s just directions. Anyway, good luck!" With that, he went on his way.


    "What a weird guy," both Edward and Luna mused silently. "Anyway, let''s just go," Edward suggested.


    Following the directions given, they eventually reached the Hazy Inn. The moon, visible through the inn''s entrance, provided a marker for the night, even if it couldn''t offer details about the month and year.


    Upon entering, they encountered an odd scene¡ªdrunken patrons, raucous laughter, and a woman singing a song that was an assault on the ears of her unfortunate crewmates. The noisy crowd failed to notice their arrival, but when Edward muttered "Awesome" to himself, the entire room fell silent, with every eye fixed on him.


    Edward and Luna were now the center of attention, pierced by the collective gaze of the inn''s patrons. Disregarding the odd situation, Edward made his way to the counter, and Luna followed closely.


    "Congrats for passing the test!" the lady at the counter announced. Suddenly, the lively atmosphere returned, as if nothing strange had happened.


    The lady inquired, "Would you guys like to stay at the Inn? And for how long will you be staying?"


    Edward replied, "Depending on the circumstances, it may be extended, but for now, 2 rooms and 3 nights, would that do?"


    "Certainly. That will be 30 coppers," she said.


    Edward handed over the payment, including three copper coins he had acquired from the bandits. All that remained was 15 silver coins and 10 copper coins.


    As they stood on the inn''s threshold, Edward made a plan. "Tomorrow, early morning, on the deck, got it, Luna?"


    Luna yawned sleepily, her cat-like mannerisms evident. "Aye aye, sir," she replied with a nod.


    As Edward entered his room and closed the door, he suddenly collapsed onto the bed. Something was triggered within him. Memories flooded his mind¡ªknowledge he couldn''t recall, images and sensations. His parents, his brothers, his previous job¡ªall flashed before him so rapidly that he couldn''t catch a breath. All he could manage to say was, "WHY!?"


    Hours passed, and the onslaught of memories eventually ceased. His eye appeared darker and deeper, and some of his black hair strands had turned white. He focused his thoughts on clearing his mind, trying to regain his composure.


    "What was that... Why did I accept that offer? I regret this; why couldn''t I have thought more about my life on Earth?" As time went on, his mind was filled with thoughts of his family, his former life on Earth, and his decision to venture into this unfamiliar world. His brain was overloaded with the weight of his past, leaving him emotionally drained. The sun began to rise, casting its early morning light on a new day.


    The journey through this extraordinary realm had only just begun.

 Chapter 5 - A Startling Awakening

    As Edward woke up on that turbulent morning, finding himself on the floor instead of in his bed, his immediate reaction was one of shock and disbelief. His hair, once brown and familiar, had transformed into a striking white, like freshly fallen snow. Even more astonishing was the change in his eyes, which were now pitch black from iris to pupil.


    Edward''s first thoughts were a mix of surprise and amusement. "Shit," he muttered, followed by a chuckle, as if trying to downplay the bizarre transformation. His past had made him somewhat indifferent to life''s unexpected twists, and this astounding metamorphosis was just another perplexing event in a series.


    As he examined his new appearance in the mirror, he couldn''t help but think, "Oh man, I wonder what Mom would say to my ass right now. I miss them a lot¡ªmy family, that is. Come to think of it, there was that time when I tried to dye it back to white."


    Contrary to the appearance he had woken up with, Edward had been born with white hair. This unique trait had stood out among generations of black-haired ancestors. His parents had welcomed the uniqueness with joy, interpreting it as a symbol of change and individuality. However, at the age of 10, he had made the decision to dye his hair black to better fit in at school. By the time he reached 14 and had attempted to revert to his original white hair, he had encountered insurmountable challenges. His relentless search for solutions on platforms like YouTube, Google, Reddit, and Twitter had been in vain.


    Desperate to regain his original appearance, he had ventured to the local salon where he had initially dyed his hair black. To his astonishment, the salon had vanished, replaced by a KFC building. Distressed and panicking, he turned to the residents of the area for answers.


    Approaching an elderly man, Edward inquired about the missing salon. The elderly gentleman explained, "It closed down due to numerous lawsuits related to permanent hair dye issues. They had no choice but to close and recover from the damages."


    Edward, attempting to appear nonchalant, laughed and confessed, "Yes, I was one of the victims." The old man couldn''t help but join in the laughter before inquiring, "But why worry? Your hair is black now, isn''t it?"


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    Edward, concealing the true reason, replied, "Because I was born with blonde hair, and my mom wanted me to get rid of it."


    The old man nodded in understanding. "I can''t quite picture your face with blonde hair, but I suppose that''s how things are. Goodbye then."


    As the old man departed, Edward had no choice but to continue his journey with his unique appearance of white hair and pitch-black eyes, all the while reminiscing about his family.


    Edward wiped away the tears that had welled up in his pitch-black eyes, a silent reflection of his profound longing for his family. "I really do miss them a lot, even those little pieces of shit Ethan, Zane, and Von," he muttered, his voice tinged with a mixture of nostalgia and sorrow. "Sad to say that I will never see them again."


    In an effort to regain composure, he focused his thoughts on the present and the challenges that lay ahead. With determination, he pressed a dagger into his palm, a familiar act that both sharpened his resolve and tested his apparent immortality. "AWW FUCK!" he exclaimed, the pain surging through him, only to subside as the wound healed instantly. He compared the sensation to an octopus closing a wound, a testament to his apparent immortality.


    Edward contemplated the implications of his immortality, the prospect of never aging, and the potential means by which he could meet his end. He mused, "I wonder if I age... If I can''t, then the only way I''ll die is either by destroying my soul itself or trapping me in a compressed space." The thought of such extreme measures sent shivers down his spine, leaving him with a sense of dread.


    Finally, Edward turned his attention to the mirror one last time. "God, I really am that handsome," he remarked with a hint of self-assuredness, finding solace in his own reflection amidst the turmoil and uncertainty that had come to define his life.


    He contemplated the pain he had experienced the night before, a sensation that had been like being shredded, burned, and stabbed simultaneously. He couldn''t help but wonder why and how it had happened, as well as the purpose behind it. With no clear answers, he resolved to revisit the issue later and moved on with his day.


    A knock on the door interrupted his thoughts, and Luna''s voice rang out, "Heyyy! It''s morning, wake up sleepyhead!"


    "Coming!!" Edward responded, his mind racing with questions and uncertainty. He decided to give the matter further thought during the midnight hours, as he prepared to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

 Chapter 6: "Promises and Departure"

    Chapter 6: "Promises and Departure"


    As Edward opened the door, the first thing he heard was, "Holy shit, who the fuck are you?!" Luna exclaimed. Edward smiled and calmly replied, "Dude, it''s me, Edward."


    Luna''s eyes widened as she looked at his changed appearance, "What happened to your hair?"


    Edward chuckled and answered, "Yeah, about that. This is my original hair color."


    "Ooooooh, you look dope," Luna exaggerated, admiring Edward''s unique appearance.


    "Anyway, what are we going to do today?" Edward inquired.


    Luna eagerly responded, "I talked to some people in the lobby, and I found out that there''s an Adventure Guild here in this town. But, of course, there''s a test to prevent idiots from going on an adventure and dying like some mud in the air."


    Edward nodded, "I see. Let''s go there later, but for now, let''s eat some food."


    As they headed downstairs, Edward noticed that the lobby was empty, and he couldn''t help but ask, "Hey, where''s everyone?"


    Luna explained, "Oh yeah, they said there''s a mass in the church today, and it''s going to take a while for it to end."


    "Wait, the church exists? As in like God or Jesus Christ?" Edward inquired, a sense of confusion in his voice. He continued to explain his background, "I was born into a Catholic family, but I couldn''t call myself good nor evil. I didn''t want to be a liar or an actor in front of Jesus when I died, deceiving the one and only. So, I chose to become a Christian instead."


    "Yeah, it''s a thing. Wait, are you by any chance Catholic?" Luna asked, grinning.


    Edward replied, "No, but I''m a Christian," his tone carrying a touch of sadness.


    "Mhm, I see. But man, you really look dope with that hair."


    Edward chose to ignore the compliment, fearing that further conversation might escalate.


    "Let''s just get some food," Edward suggested.


    As they settled into their chairs, Luna exclaimed, "Grandma!!! Grandmaaaaa!"


    An unfamiliar character, Grandma, slowly appeared, responding with irritation, "What! Shouting in the first thing in the morning?! Could you have said it normally?"


    "Ehh, but I prefer it this way," Luna said with a touch of sadness.


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    Exhaling heavily, Grandma asked, "What can I get for you today?"


    Edward, whose night had been disturbed by recent events, and with his stomach rumbling like a moody storm, placed his order, "I''d like a poached egg, not much rice either, and a cup of coffee, any type of coffee will do."


    Luna, still struggling to decide, received a suggestion from Grandma, "What about lasagna? It''s good and sweet, and it''s quite popular these days."


    "That will do," Luna agreed.


    Edward, ever attentive to Luna''s emotions, inquired, "What''s so good about today, Luna?"


    With a smile and a sense of happiness, Luna explained, "Oh, nothing special. I''m just happy that I get to eat and drink freely as I want and talk to people whenever I want to."


    Edward couldn''t help but return her smile and pat her head, "I see."


    As they finished their meal, Edward urged, "Drink some water first, and then we can go to the guild."


    Luna agreed but raised a concern, "What about the bill?"


    Edward remembered and called out, "Grandma! Grandma!"


    Annoyed by the interruption, Grandma responded, "Here. What? You guys done eating? How about you pay for the food then?"


    Edward assured her, "Don''t worry; we''re going to pay. Here''s the money. By the way, could I ask for your name?"


    "It''s Linlin. How nice of you to ask for my name, though. Most don''t even ask for my name, let alone give a damn about me. Anyway, just call me Linlin. I''m not even that old yet, you goddamned brats," Grandma replied with a touch of anger.


    "Mhm. Luna, are you done?"


    Luna confirmed, "Yeah. What about you, Edward?"


    Edward nodded, and as both took a second sip of water, Edward said, "All right, then. Let''s go to the guild."


    "Finally! Just follow me, and we''ll get there right away," Luna said with a grin.


    "Very well, lead the way," Edward agreed with a slight smile.


    Upon arriving at the guild, Luna was astonished by its beauty and size. However, for Edward, the exterior was less important than what lay within and its inherent value.


    They both entered the bustling guild, a place filled with people and noise. It was as chaotic as a lion''s roar but organized like a colony of ants. This arrangement allowed them to approach the counter with ease.


    Edward approached the counter and asked, "Hey, could I register for both of us?"


    The lady behind the counter explained the process, "Sure, but in your case, you can skip the exams and go straight for the Ranking Test. However, you''ll need to relocate, as this facility is full. As for the lady behind you, I''m not sure about her; she can stay here and take the exam and also go for the Ranking Test."


    Edward inquired further, "How long will the exam take?"


    The lady replied, "It''ll take about 7-10 days, approximately."


    With this information, both Luna and Edward moved to a quiet corner of the guild. Luna''s expression was filled with sadness.


    Edward gently addressed her, "Luna, I know that you were hoping for both of us to take the exam together, but it seems that''s not going to happen."


    Tears began to well up in Luna''s eyes as she responded, "Yeah, I know. I was really looking forward to it."


    Edward reached out and cupped her face in his hands, making her look directly into his eyes, "Luna, listen to me."


    With tears threatening to escape, Luna asked, "What?"


    Edward''s voice was filled with sincerity, "I know we won''t start at the same time, but it''s only 7 days. Don''t get too upset about it. Stop crying."


    "All right, fine. I''ll wait. But you better promise me that you won''t forget about me and that you''ll be waiting for me to get there, got it?" Luna said, her voice quivering as tears began to fall.


    Edward wiped her tears and reassured her, "I promise. Why would I ever forget about you?"


    With that, he patted her head and left to go to the next town to take the ranking test, determined to stay there and wait for Luna.


    CHAPTER 6 END

 Chapter 7: "Woodstone Towns Mysteries"

    Chapter 7: "Woodstone Town''s Mysteries"


    Before departing, Edward implored Luna to teach him some spells, and she obliged.


    As Edward entered Woodstone Town, renowned for its dense woods and extraordinary mineral wealth, he found himself captivated by the tranquil atmosphere. The air carried a unique blend of earthy fragrances, and the gentle rustling of leaves from the towering trees created a melody that seemed to echo the town''s harmony with nature. Deep within him, however, Edward harbored a secret¡ªa gift and a burden: immortality. Aware of the potential consequences, he vowed to keep this aspect of himself hidden, fearing that the world might seek to exploit or experiment on him if the truth were known.


    Woodstone stood apart from any town Edward had encountered. Its buildings seamlessly merged with the natural surroundings, crafted from timber that appeared to dance with the forest. The architecture achieved a flawless fusion of human artistry and the beauty of nature.


    Edward, maintaining his calm demeanor, wandered through the narrow streets. He couldn''t resist admiring how the town blended effortlessly with the woods, and the locals, serving as silent observers, exchanged nods and smiles, acknowledging the newcomer without direct interaction.


    His initial destination, the Adventure Guild, a charming structure discreetly positioned at the town''s outskirts, greeted him with Elza, a receptionist radiating an unwelcoming aura. She handed Edward a map with a terse instruction: "Go wait by the Ranking Leaderboard. Stand there until someone announces attention, signaling the commencement of the ranking test." Unfazed, Edward nodded his thanks, his confidence unshaken by the impending Ranking Test.


    As people gradually formed a group, Edward, who hadn''t arrived for hours, succumbed to weariness and fell asleep.


    {Overseer} "ATTENTION!"


    Startled awake by the sudden announcement, Edward, slightly disoriented, joined the group assembling near the Ranking Leaderboard. The once passive townsfolk transformed into eager participants, their faces revealing a mix of anticipation and anxiety.


    Edward surveyed the diverse crowd as the test approached, noting the rugged attire of wilderness experts and the confident air of skilled individuals. The mysterious aura surrounding Woodstone Town seemed to extend to its residents, each harboring secrets and unique abilities.


    Maintaining his calm demeanor, Edward listened as Brutus, the overseer, boomed his introduction.


    {BRUTUS} "LISTEN UP, BOYS! I''M BRUTUS, AKA THE BRUTAL BUTCHER!! NOW PAY ATTENTION. WE''LL CALL YOU ONE BY ONE, AND EACH WILL RECEIVE


    RANKINGS AND CLASSIFICATIONS. IF YOU''RE NOT FAMILIAR WITH THE CLASS, I SUGGEST YOU LEAVE NOW!"


    {BRUTUS} "FIRST OFF, HAROLD ARCHEN! COME DOWN TO THE ARENA!"


    A mysterious figure approached, clad in mage attire but armed with a sword.


    {Harold} "Present."


    {BRUTUS} "Swordsman or mage?"


    {Harold} "WarMage."


    {Brutus} "Good. You''ll face another overseer."


    With a thunderous shout, Brutus summoned Oliver, causing the glass to nearly crack, and contestants to wince.


    {Oliver} "Jeez, no need to shout that much."


    {Brutus} "He''s your overseer. Mages, wait. Swordsman and martial artists, physical body required."


    {Oliver} "Let''s not waste time. Harold, prepare yourself."


    As Oliver and Harold engaged in a magical duel, the crowd watched with heightened interest.


    {Oliver} "Rebounding Fire Arrow!"


    {Harold} "Fire Arrow II!"


    Their spells clashed, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of magic. Oliver''s arrow, flanking Harold''s defenses, headed towards its target.


    {Harold} "TCH! Earthen Wall!"


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    Unexpectedly, the wall crumbled, and the arrow closed in on Harold once again. Switching to Warmage, Harold approached Oliver with enhanced speed and heightened senses.


    {Harold} "Speed boost, Senses enhance!"


    Unfazed, Oliver countered with a blinding Lightray, temporarily incapacitating Harold. A Water Arrow Unpiercing followed, with Harold narrowly evading.


    As Harold launched another attack, a weakened Fire Arrow successfully knocked him out. Oliver, unmoved from his spot, showcased his prowess.


    {Brutus} "Impressive, Oliver! Harold, you''re out."


    The crowd murmured, acknowledging Oliver''s skill. Edward, still observing, analyzed each participant''s abilities.


    {Oliver} "Who''s next?"


    Edward, calm and composed, stepped forward.


    {Brutus} "Stranger, what''s your name?"


    {Edward} "Edward."


    {Brutus} "Well, Edward, step up. Let''s see what you''re made of."Well, Edward, step up. Let''s see what you''re made of."


    As Edward ascended the platform, meeting Oliver''s calculating gaze, the atmosphere grew tense. The crowd hushed, anticipating the clash between the mysterious newcomer and the skilled mage. In Woodstone Town, the mysteries deepened with each duel, and Edward was poised to become a central figure in its unfolding narrative.


    However, before Edward faced Oliver, he had to prove himself against the imposing overseer, Brutus. As Edward positioned himself on the platform, Brutus, the Brutal Butcher, eyed him with a mixture of amusement and arrogance.


    {Brutus} "You think that fancy light magic of yours can stand up to the force of Brutus? Well, let''s see, shall we?"


    Brutus, with an air of nonchalance, swung his colossal axe in a wide arc, sending shockwaves through the platform. Edward, though maintaining his calm demeanor, felt the pressure of Brutus''s immense strength.


    {Brutus} "Come on, shine-boy. Show me what you got!"


    Edward, conjuring his radiant light, attempted to create a defensive barrier. However, Brutus, seemingly uninterested, sauntered forward and swung his axe with deliberate slowness.


    The clash was inevitable. Edward''s light barrier met Brutus''s weapon, and the platform trembled with the impact. The townsfolk, who had been enamored by the elegance of Edward''s earlier display, now watched as he struggled against the overwhelming force of Brutus.


    {Oliver, whispering to a spectator} "Brutus is toying with him. It''s like a cat playing with its prey."


    Edward, feeling the strain, gritted his teeth and focused his energy to reinforce the barrier. Brutus, with a smirk, increased the pressure. The light barrier flickered as if unable to contend with the sheer brute strength of the overseer.


    {Brutus, laughing} "Come on, is that all you got? I expected more from someone with such fancy tricks."


    The crowd''s murmur shifted from awe to concern. Edward, determined not to yield, channeled more energy into the light barrier. The struggle continued, the clash of forces creating an intense spectacle on the platform.


    {Oliver, to the onlookers} "Edward''s testing the limits of his magic against Brutus''s raw power. This is turning out to be more interesting than I thought."


    As the minutes passed, Edward''s resilience began to make an impression. The light barrier, initially faltering, now held more steadfastly against Brutus''s deliberate assaults. The townsfolk, sensing a shift in the dynamics, started to rally behind Edward.


    {Brutus, feigning surprise} "Well, well. Looks like the shine-boy''s got some backbone. Let''s see how much longer you can keep this up!"


    The struggle between light and brawn intensified, the platform beneath them bearing witness to a clash of contrasting strengths. Edward, though still under Brutus''s imposing shadow, was determined to illuminate Woodstone Town with the brilliance of his magic. The mysteries of the town, now entwined with the ongoing spectacle, seemed to anticipate the resolution of this formidable challenge.


    The struggle between light and brawn intensified, the platform beneath them bearing witness to a clash of contrasting strengths. Edward, though still under Brutus''s imposing shadow, was determined to illuminate Woodstone Town with the brilliance of his magic.


    Feeling the ebb and flow of the confrontation, Brutus, with a sudden shift in demeanor, disengaged from the contest of strength. A wicked grin crept across his face, revealing a new anticipation. He unslung a massive sword from his back, the metal glinting in the dappled sunlight filtering through the trees.


    {Brutus} "Enough of this light show. Let''s see if you can dance with a blade, shine-boy!"


    Edward, quick to adapt, summoned a radiant blade of light into his hand. The crowd, previously entranced by the magical struggle, now erupted in excitement as the overseer and the newcomer prepared for a sword fight.


    The clash of steel echoed through Woodstone Town as Brutus swung his colossal sword with raw power. Edward, wielding his nimble light blade, danced with precision, parrying Brutus''s heavy strikes. The platform became a stage for this unexpected duel, and the townsfolk watched with bated breath.


    {Oliver, commenting to a spectator} "Now it gets interesting. Brutus is not just a brute; he''s got skills with that sword. But Edward, he''s like a living light, so unpredictable."


    The fight continued, each combatant probing the other''s defenses. Edward''s agility and finesse were pitted against Brutus''s overwhelming strength and experience. The mysteries of Woodstone Town seemed to converge in this clash, as if the very essence of the town resonated with the unfolding spectacle.


    Edward, with a burst of radiant energy, executed a dazzling maneuver, disarming Brutus and leaving him momentarily stunned. The townsfolk gasped in astonishment. However, Brutus, unfazed by the setback, retrieved his sword and chuckled.


    {Brutus} "Not bad, shine-boy. But let''s see if you can keep up!"


    Despite Brutus''s earlier display of overwhelming strength, there was a subtle change in the dynamics of the sword fight. Edward, determined and resilient, seemed to find a new energy as he faced Brutus''s powerful swordplay.


    Brutus, who had initially gone easy on Edward, now decided to end the dance. With a sudden surge of strength, he parried one of Edward''s nimble strikes and delivered a swift counterattack. Edward, caught off guard, staggered backward.


    {Brutus, grinning} "You''ve got some moves, shine-boy, but don''t think for a moment you can match the might of Brutus!"


    With a series of powerful strikes, Brutus overwhelmed Edward. The townsfolk, who had been cheering for the underdog, now watched in silence as the dance turned into a display of Brutus''s dominance.


    {Oliver, watching closely} "Brutus is a master with that sword. Edward''s skills are impressive, but he might have met his match."


    Brutus, with a final, decisive blow, disarmed Edward and sent his light blade scattering across the platform. The townsfolk gasped, witnessing the conclusion of the intense duel.


    {Brutus} "Well fought, shine-boy. But remember, might is the ultimate power in Woodstone Town."


    As Brutus walked away, leaving Edward on the platform, a mix of disappointment and admiration lingered in the air. Edward, though defeated, stood tall, his demeanor unbroken.


    {Edward, to himself} "I may not have won, but the mysteries of Woodstone Town run deep. This is just the beginning."


    The participants, regardless of the outcome, acknowledged Edward''s resilience.


    {Brutus} "Hold on a moment. What''s the story with that hair of yours, shine-boy? Ain''t a common sight ''round these parts."


    Edward, maintaining his composure, responded calmly, "It''s a trait I was born with, nothing more."


    Brutus, though gruff in demeanor, couldn''t shake off his curiosity. The townsfolk, too, exchanged glances, intrigued by the exchange.


    {Brutus} "Born with it, eh? Well, we don''t see many folks with hair like fresh snow. Keep an eye on him, Oliver. Let''s see if that hair hides more than just an odd color."


    As the chapter concluded, Woodstone Town''s mysteries deepened, and Edward found himself entwined in a tapestry of secrets and challenges. The enigmatic aura persisted, casting a captivating spell over both residents and visitors alike, beckoning them to explore the unknown paths that lay ahead.


    CHAPTER 7 END

 Chapter 8 - "The Unyielding Shadows: Edwards Confrontation"

    The night hung heavy with an oppressive stillness, the aftermath of the chaotic inferno casting an eerie silence over the desolate town of Woodstone. The air was thick with the acrid scent of burnt wood and the haunting echoes of tortured screams still resonated in the air. Edward stood amidst the remnants of a once-thriving community, his mind a whirlwind of confusion and concern.


    The directive to return home, a haven for most, was a cruel irony for Edward. Homelessness was now his unwelcome companion, a bitter truth that gnawed at the edges of his consciousness.


    {Edward} So this is my reality for now... wandering the desolate streets like a specter.


    With a resigned sigh, he sought refuge in a secluded corner, the hard ground beneath him offering little comfort. The night sky above held no solace, its vast expanse seemingly indifferent to the turmoil below.


    {Edward} Time to rest... if one can truly find rest in times like these.


    As he closed his eyes, hoping for a respite from the harsh reality, a mysterious figure materialized above the town. Clad in black robes, they and their silent companions exuded an aura of foreboding. Edward''s keen senses picked up on the strange chant that emanated from the dark assembly, words that held an otherworldly resonance.


    {Mysterious Figure} O santanas, adiuva nos libera malum de corde Domini, Diaboli Menace.


    The incantations hung in the air, an ominous symphony that foretold of impending doom. Unbeknownst to the town, a black figure emerged on the West side, an embodiment of darkness guided by unholy purpose.


    {Black Figure} O lauda, lauda diabolum...


    The macabre words trailed from the figure''s lips, each step etching a sinister path toward the unsuspecting town gate. The guard, unaware and powerless, succumbed to an unnatural slumber, allowing the dark presence to breach the town''s defenses.


    {Black Figure} O lucifer, occide me.


    A sword swung, a brief flash of violence that ended with the figure''s disappearance, leaving behind an ominous countdown. The finality of the countdown heralded a torrent of black flames that erupted with hellish intensity, consuming everything in their path.


    {Child} Hey, what''s this?


    Innocence met malevolence as a child''s curiosity led to a tragic encounter with the black flames. The town, entrapped by an unseen force, became a cauldron of despair.


    {Child} HEEELP!!! MOOOM! DAADD!!!! ANYONE HELP ME! BROTHER!!!!


    Desperation and agony echoed through the burning streets, but salvation remained elusive. Amid the chaos, Edward awoke to the searing pain of the flames, a visceral reminder of the nightmare he found himself in.


    {Edward} AAUGHHHH! IT HURTS AHH!!!! FIRE!!!


    His instinctual response, a cascade of water magic, doused the flames that threatened to consume him. As he surveyed the hellish landscape, a chilling realization took hold.


    {Edward} Is this hell?


    The once-vibrant town now lay in ruin, and the cries of the suffering resonated in every direction. Amidst the madness, Edward sought out others, a beacon of hope in the sea of despair.


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    {Edward} Hey, are you okay?


    Yet, his attempts at aid were met with muted responses, the pain too overwhelming for coherent communication.


    {Edward} Water bast IV!


    His incantations invoked a torrent of water, a fleeting reprieve for those ensnared by the flames. However, the temporary relief was cruelly juxtaposed by the silence that followed¡ªthe lifeless gaze of those he had tried to save haunting him.


    {Edward} ...


    A cacophony of screams enveloped him, a disorienting symphony of anguish that gripped his soul.


    {Edward} What is really going on...


    Edward''s confusion mirrored the chaos around him as he navigated through the burning town, his senses assaulted by the sights and sounds of suffering.


    {Edward} God, if I try pouring the flame out, it will kill them. Let''s try a Holy spell.


    Determined to make a difference, Edward invoked a prayer, an earnest plea for divine intervention.


    {Edward}


    O God, seeing as there is in Christ Jesus an infinite fullness of all that we can want or desire,May we all receive from him, grace upon grace; grace to pardon our sins, and subdue our iniquities;to justify our persons and to sanctify our souls; and to complete that holy change, that renewal of our hearts,Which will enable us to be transformed into the blessed image in which you created us.O make us all acceptable to be partakers of the inheritance of your saints in light, Amen.


    The invocation echoed through the night air, a sacred plea in the face of profane chaos. A divine response manifested in the form of a celestial being, feathers cascading from the heavens to touch the suffering townsfolk, alleviating their agony.


    {Edward} Good, that worked huh.


    Yet, even as hope flickered, the toll on Edward became apparent. The consequences of his immortal nature, a heart strained to its limits, revealed the price of his benevolent efforts.


    As the remnants of the spell lingered, Edward observed a marching contingent of soldiers, their stoic march through the East gate a stark contrast to the pandemonium within.


    {Edward} Just a little more!


    Determined to escape the encroaching threat, Edward navigated the shadows, seeking refuge from both the inferno and the looming military presence.


    However, as he emerged, a spear aimed for his head threatened to end his escape prematurely.


    The commander''s stern gaze bore into Edward, demanding answers that even he did not possess. The air crackled with tension as the soldiers closed in, their weapons gleaming ominously in the dim light of the flickering flames.


    {Commander} You, tell us what is going on inside.


    {Edward} Like hell if I know.


    Edward''s defiance hung in the air, a stark challenge to the authority that sought to hold him captive. The commander, unyielding in his resolve, issued a chilling command.


    {Commander} Being resistant, I see. Soldiers, kill him.


    The soldiers, instruments of the commander''s will, moved with calculated precision, surrounding Edward like a pack of hungry wolves closing in on their prey. The clash of weapons and the harsh metallic scent of impending conflict saturated the air.


    {Edward} More trouble, huh? I don''t have time for this.


    As if on cue, three soldiers advanced with spears, lunging towards Edward with the intent to subdue and conquer. Yet, Edward''s reflexes, honed by countless battles, were razor-sharp. In a seamless motion, his sword whirled through the air, severing the head of one soldier and sending it rolling across the ground.


    The spears lodged in his chest were swiftly extracted, and with a calculated toss, they impaled two soldiers with deadly accuracy. The battlefield became a macabre dance of death, the flames casting grotesque shadows that flickered with each life extinguished.


    However, the respite was short-lived. One soldier, displaying unexpected agility, parried Edward''s onslaught. In a flash, he closed the distance, slashing Edward''s arm and delivering a powerful kick that sent him sprawling across the ashy ground.


    Two more soldiers descended upon him, stabbing viciously at his head. But Edward, undeterred, unleashed a blinding Shining Ray, a burst of radiant energy that disintegrated the two soldiers, leaving only a faint residue of their former existence.


    {Edward} Black flame.


    The darkness responded to his command, enveloping his sword in an ethereal, breathing fire. The blade flickered ominously, mirroring the chaos that surrounded them.


    {Edward} Triple Sense, Triple Speed.


    Empowered by his heightened senses and swifter movements, Edward re-entered the fray. With calculated precision, he severed the arm of the soldier who had maimed him, delivering swift justice.


    A chilling plea pierced the tumultuous atmosphere.


    {Soldier} Ple- please! Let us live! We were just following orders!


    But Edward, his eyes reflecting none and embodying darkness, was unyielding in his judgment. As the last soldier pleaded for mercy, Edward''s cold gaze turned towards the fallen commander, who lay on the ground, lifeless. The air was heavy with the stench of death, and the fiery glow from Edward''s blade flickered ominously.


    {Edward} Your orders led to this chaos. Your hands are stained with the blood of innocents.


    The fallen commander''s lifeless eyes stared into the abyss, and in that moment, Edward''s demeanor remained unbroken, a testament to the unrelenting darkness that had consumed him.


    {Edward} This is the consequence of your choices.


    With a swift and deliberate motion, Edward''s sword descended, severing any lingering breath of life from the fallen commander. The flames of vengeance danced in his eyes, casting an eerie glow on the gruesome aftermath of the battle. The air was thick with silence as Edward stood among the fallen, a solitary figure bathed in the haunting light of his own creation.


    CHAPTER 8

 Chapter 9: The Final Confrontation

    Amidst the aftermath of the devastating battle, Edward, standing tall amidst the fallen, found himself confronted by an unexpected presence. A mysterious figure, draped in pristine white, emerged from the shadows, approaching Edward with purpose.


    {Edward} What do you want, oh saint?


    The figure, known as The Saint Derless, raised her hands, summoning a gleaming javelin that materialized before her. Without a moment''s hesitation, she thrust it toward Edward''s heart.


    {Edward} What do you want...


    Cocky and defiant, Edward, though pierced, faced The Saint Derless with an unyielding gaze, ignoring the pain that echoed through his chest.


    {Saint Derless} Your actions have resulted in many deaths, and to compensate, your death is enough. I am The Saint Derless, The Spear of the Heaven.


    The Saint Derless regarded Edward with an air of authority, as if passing judgment.


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    {Edward} Seriously, an Angel? But do you really think that you can kill me? Even knowing that I am immortal?


    {Saint Derless} Yes.


    With those resolute words, a thousand spears materialized and hurtled toward Edward. Each spear found its mark, piercing him in a symphony of divine retribution. As swiftly as they came, the spears vanished, leaving Edward battered but still standing.


    The Saint Derless fixed a gaze upon Edward, seeing beyond the physical wounds to the essence within.


    To the Saint''s discerning eyes, Edward''s soul struggled to reunite with his physical form. Undeterred, The Saint Derless thrust her javelin with unwavering might, shattering not only Edward''s soul but also the mountains and sea in the backdrop.


    {Saint Derless} No more words need to be spoken.


    With these words, The Saint Derless brought an end to Edward''s story, and by extension, the narrative itself.


    Chapter 9: The Final Confrontation and The Man''s End


    {The Black Figure} I was bored you see...... so i though why not end it... lol.