Oh hey, you've finally here. I was wondering when you will show up, and well, you've made it.
If you're reading this, then you probably know what "isekai" is right? You know, the kind of trope where some random poor victims got transferred into another world to resolve that world's problem? You know, the trope that's been on a crazy run for years in the anime community, for both the good and bad reasons of course.
Right now, I'm currently in that exact situation.
"Whoosh!"
"Argh!"
With a slash smooth like cutting through butter, the demon lord's left leg has been disintegrated. As the result, he falls down on the ground.
Oh and by the way, the name's Kaito, Amakusa Kaito. I'm just an ordinary guy you can find anywhere on the street, although I have the appearance of a typical high school boy in those anime you saw.
Like seriously, black, not-to-spiky hair, average build and a naïve face, I'm sure if I pay an artist to illustrate me, I'm going to easily blend in with a lot of other protagonists.
However, I think I'm getting a bit sidetracked, so let's get back shall we?
"Everyone, now's the time!"
Following my attack, I shout aloud, letting my team know the gap has been opened, and the chance only comes once.
"Thunder Roar!"
"Larva Blast!"
"Amplification Boost!"
Right behind me, two attacks emerge and head straight to the demon lord, alongside a strengthened spell to increase the volume and damage.
"Boom!"
As soon as the attacks hit their target, the demon lord is being pushed back right to his own throne and thus, the wall behind that throne has been destroyed. In addition, the ceiling has fallen down, and a thick layer of smoke is surrounding him as well.
Seeing that, I take a step back to right beside my allies, who're gasping and waiting for the outcome.
"Hey…did we…did we make it?" Luna, the mage with green hair, asked.
"*puff puff* that devil's mana has gone just yet, so I think we need a bigger gun." Roman, the half-naked fighter with a scar on his left cheek, responded tiredly.
Unsurprisingly, the combined attack from the trio has left them on low fuel. Since the demon lord has got up yet, let's introduce them a bit shall we?
The person who cast "Amplification Boost" is a green-haired woman named Luna Ravenscroft, a top-tier mage of Christo Kingdom. Although doesn't possess great fighting skills, her healing and strengthening abilities have come in handy on many occasions, and we're all thankful for it.
The person responding to her is Roman Jenkins, a fearsome and hotheaded fighter. Born into a poor family, he has dedicated his entire life and talent to be the best of the best, and well, I think you can already tell whether he has succeeded or not.
"Yeah Aris-kun, he's right. We really need a bigger gun right now, and it has to be the biggest one ever seen."
To my left, a stylish man with a trench coat and a fedora jokingly said to me so. He's Johan Langstrom, a mid-tier noble turned reliable and useful strategist. Using his knowledge, he has leveraged not just his own life but also every team he has joined, including this one.
"Don't worry Johan-san, I have just the one, and I'm delivering it right now."
Closing my eyes, I channel my mana into my sword. Immediately, it's covered in a thick blue aura, signifying the end of this long and gruesome battle.
"Grargh!!! Don't you dare think cutting off my leg is enough! I shall destroy you and your precious kingdom! Prepare for total annihilation, hero! "Eternal Darkness"!"
Filled with rage and hatred, the demon lord gets back up. Immediately, he charges a dark mana ball out of his mouth and once it's ready, he fires it at us with full throttle.
"Tsk, look out!" Johan shouted, using his coat to cover himself.
The other two quickly stand tall on the ground, not letting themselves be thrown away by the wind. Normally, they would do even more to defend themselves, but that would be unnecessary.
"Nexus Heart: Final Judgement."
Open my eyes, I run towards the dark blast with everything I have. I'm coming at it with such velocity, none of the people on the battlefield can keep up with my movement.
I know there isn't much time for one more explanation right now, but just bear with me for a second will you? I promise I'll make it quick.
When I first traveled to this world, I gained the ability "Nexus Heart", which not only allows me to rewrite the laws of magic and physics, but it can also grant me the power to obtain any and every ability after learning or even just seeing it just once.
I know it sounds like a cheat code, and I admit that it is, but to get to that stage, I still have to improvise, adapt and overcome a lot. You can't really see the process just now because well, we're only at chapter 1, but I can assure you that I'll provide you with flashbacks as proof.
Now where was I last time? Oh yeah that's right…
"Hargh!"
Before the demon lord can even know it, I've easily split the blast into two while also slowly disintegrate the mana from that blast. Thus, the more I get closer to the enemy, the weaker the attack becomes, and eventually…
"Splash!"
My sword has finally pierced through the demon lord.
"Hrghh…*splash* impossible…my "Eternal Darkness"…you can't do this to me…I was so close…" the demon lord panted heavily while coughing out blood.
From behind, my team has finally caught up to the situation. Soon, I can hear them celebrating lightly, as their wounds haven't healed up yet.
"Yeah well, I guess you just have to wait longer, although…"
Before I can even finish my words, my enemy has taken his last breath and collapsed. In addition, I can no longer hear his heartbeat or feel his mana anymore.
The demon lord has finally been defeated.
"Oh well, at least you beat me to that, so credits where credits due." I said jokingly. "Alright Mr. Demon Lord, it's been a fun ride, but I have some more things left to deal with so…goodbye and see you on the other side."
With those words, my mission of bringing peace to not just the Christo Kingdom, but also the whole world, has ended.
A week has passed since the defeat of the notorious demon lord.
Unsurprisingly, once the news spread, relief and jubilation came as the result, and because of that, the entire world has spent the last seven days celebrating.
People have been partying, soldiers' have been carousing, authorities have been feasting nonstop, and most importantly…
"Aris-sama! Aris-sama! Aris-sama!"
The hero party has been praised like saviors by not just the people, but also by those who're above us. Of course, we all take it with honor and joy, and just like everyone, we decide to let ourselves go for a little while to enjoy this peaceful time.
"*glug glug* another one!"
Chugging down a glass of the finest beer, I wipe out the foam and immediately ask for more. The party and I are currently residing at a local tavern in Willow Town. A village to the east of Christo Kingdom, it's known for the top-notch barley fields and the beverage coming from it. As the result, the tavern business has been thriving for quite a while.
It's not our first time being here, but to me, it's certainly the last.
"Hey Aris-kun, isn't this your fifteen beers already? Is your stomach able to handle more?" Luna-chan asked.
"Ah don't worry, I'm fine." I responded "I'm the Hero remember? How can I let myself be conquered by alcohol, that would be very embarrassing don't you think?"
"Yeah, you're right, but then again…"
"Now now Luna-chan, just relax a little bit. It's not like he gets to eat and drink like this every day, so cut him some slacks will you?" Roman-san said with his hands holding more glasses.
"Ugh fine…But you're carrying him back to the inn. I don't want the smell of alcohol on my hat, you know?" she responded reluctantly.
As my two comrades are having a conversation, I drink up two more beers, before leaving the table for an arm-wrestling contest. It's an old tradition here at the village whenever there's a party, and how can I miss it right?
"Bam!"
"And the winner is Aris-sama!"
Within a few minutes, I've defeated every opponent who dared to challenge me. Some of them didn't even last a millisecond, and others, while managed to survive longer, weren't a problem to me at all.
"Oh dear, as expected of the hero who killed the demon lord…I really stood no chance at all!" Kevin, the lumberjack I just won against, exclaimed in pain.
Surrounding us, the crowds start cheering for my victory as loudly as ever. Kevin here is one of the local champions in this sport, so naturally, when someone stronger emerges, they're all quite hyped up.
"Oh no Kevin-san, you did well too." I responded, raising my hand out to him "You have good techniques and arm strengths too, I'm sure you'll regain the title anytime soon."
Hearing that, the lumberjack laughs out loudly. He then takes my hand and stands up, before raising mine up in the air, officially declaring me as the champion.
"Woo! Yeah, that's what I'm talking about! The new champion is here!"
"Aris-sama! Aris-sama! Aris-sama!"
Once again, the crowds cheer on for quite a while. Of course, they were also feasting nonstop during the time, and I must give credits to the owner. Managing this much chaos, she really is a beast on her own isn't she?
"Aris-sama! Aris-sama! Aris-sama!"
Taking things further, the crowds start lifting me up and let me surf on them. The whole scene really reminds me of those rappers back in the day when they performed at those crazy clubs and concerts.
Too bad I don't have a Soundcloud account, not like I can afford it in this world to be frank.
"Oh dear, just what did you put in their drinks missy? I've been drinking it for quite some time now, yet I can still crack the code." Johan-san said while sitting at the counter.
"Oh young man, you of all must know that a magician doesn't reveal their secrets, but if you ever want to learn it, we'll always welcome you with our warmest hands." The owner jokingly answered.
"Heh, can't wait to be your apprentice. I must learn the secret of this sacred water!" Johan-san comically said with some dramatic hints.
Honestly, just partying like this, I really enjoy it. I mean, who wouldn't, right?
The food is great, the people are nice, and the drink is out of this world. Not to mention the atmosphere too, for a fantasy world, I'm quite shocked that it's quite more hostile than I imagined.
Of course, there're problems, some of which I had to deal with along the way, but in the end, I'm having a great time in this world.
"But my old world…I'm sure mom is going to be very sad and lonely…"
Right around the end of the first year, I was transferred into this world through a summoning ritual. Contrary to my expectation, I can be transported back.
"But you've chosen me right? Yes I really want to go back, but at the same time, I can't allow myself to give up when there's still crying for help, so I'll stay and fight!"
That's what I said five years ago, when I was just about to turn sixteen. Looking back, I really pushed the "Hero of Justice" thing with those lines didn't I?
Since then, I've achieved a lot, gained respect from everyone and most importantly, delivered what I came here to. In just five years, I've become a legend of this world, the one that every kid growing up wants to be.
"Yeah, growing up…I wonder if time also passes there as well…" I thought retrospectively, standing in a corner of the tavern.
Regardless of everything, I never really get used to this world even after years living in it. After all, it's not easy adjusting from modern society to a medieval world. Every single night, I yearn for my old bed in my old cozy home, in a world where I'm more familiar with.
In addition, I've always wondered if mom is going to age, or time actually works differently here compared to the old world. I might be declared "dead" or thought to be missing as well, but I'm sure I can manage that once I get back.
"Still thinking about leaving us Aris-kun?"
From behind, Luna-chan walks to me and says those words. Her voice is somewhat sarcastic and sorrowful, which just fits her character perfectly.
However, it seems like she's not messing around, as when I turn to her, I can see her face being quite sincere, and she actually puts down her hat when I do so, which only happens when she's serious about something.
Luna is genuinely worried about me.
"Yeah, it's been on my mind since day one…and I don't want to sound like a jerk or anything, but I really wish time could fly faster. I really miss my mom's voice, and my best friend…I'm going to have to explain to her a lot…" I said with an earnest and saddened voice.
We then spend the next few minutes in silence. A quiet moment like this between the joy and excitement of true peace doesn't really fit the scene at all, but with no one in this smaller picture, it allows me to have this luxury.
"Yeah well it's alright, we won't blame you for having that thought." Luna responded.
"Wait, really?"
"Of course, you have all the right reasons to think so. After all, you're the one being dragged into this against your will, yet you didn't run away from it at all. That feeling of yours…we get it."
Sometimes, her words are even stronger than her spells, and she just proves it to me, once again.
Not just Luna, but my entire team has already known about my desire of coming back, and all three of them left their hometowns to pursue the mission, so if anything, they understand me the most.
"Yeah, but I don't really want to guilt trip everyone you know? A hero who keeps complaining and grumbling isn't exactly ideal for the ultimate goal don't you think?" I said jokingly.
"Well yeah, obviously, and I'm glad it didn't happen. I have quite a few spells for that occasion in my sleeves that you won't like at all."
Both of us burst out laughing. We've had these conversations for years now, and through them, we've developed a friendship that reminded me of my childhood friend back in my old world.
Huh, speaking of her, I wonder how she would react to my shenanigans…I don't want her to freak out at all, but at the same time, that would be quite cute wouldn't it…
"Alright, let's just enjoy this night for a little longer. My time here is running out anyway…"
With that in mind, I return to the tavern and continue where I left off.
Another month went by since the defeat of the demon lord.
Since then, Christo Kingdom has enjoyed peace like never before. The people are happy, and the higher-ups, while still busy dealing with other countries, are all living the best time in their life.
During that time, the transportation portal has also been prepared for my return to my old world. You know, usually when someone is summoned, their chance of getting back is zero to none, so I was a bit surprised that they actually guaranteed my return in exchange for my service.
Now, after five years, it's about time they fulfill their promise.
"Your majesty is here!" The announcer declared loudly, followed by the sound of the horns.
After a few minutes on our knees, my team and I have finally been allowed to look up, as Hans Christo, the ruler of the country, is slowly walking to his throne as a part of the farewell ceremony.
Following behind him are his elite knights and priests, who've been serving him for years now. Right next to him is none other than Queen Eliza and Prince David.
As your majesty with his beloved wife and son are all settled down, those closest to the king have also split into two lines and soon, they all bow down to their majesty.
Seeing that, the soldiers from both sides all turn to the throne and raise their lances up, signaling the final parts of the ceremony.
"All rise!"
As your majesty's command, we all stand up and bow down to him. Then, the soldiers put down their weapons and do the same.
"Oh "Hero Team of Heaven", how grateful I am to be here today. From the moment we met, I saw not just greatness, but legacies and foundations to an even greater good. Not only you've proven my vision, but also those who've doubted you, you've defied them all. My joy is beyond any words imaginable, and my mind can only be thankful for all the deeds you've done!"
With those eloquent words, the soldiers all cheer with excitement. Then, your majesty commands his inner circle to stand up and our team to walk slowly towards the throne.
"I, King Hans Christo of the Christo Kingdom, hereby announce that the "Hero Team of Heaven" is now officially an honorary member of the "Royal Guardian"! Come forth and receive your title!"
As the trumpets go on, my team walks to their majesty. On the other hand, one of the priests comes and kneels down. With nothing but respect and gratefulness, he hands his majesty a sword.
"From here on, you shall be "Sir Aris"! Be honored and proud, and may your noble spirit continue to inspire us all."
Your majesty then uses the sword to pad down on both my shoulders, officially declaring me knighthood. Immediately, your majesty's inner circle starts bowing against me as well.
"Hero Luna, Hero Johan and Hero Roman, your courage and unwavering loyalty have brought our kingdom back to its glory days. Therefore, I hereby bestow upon you the highest honor of the kingdom. Kneel."
Soon after, my teammates get the same treatment. Side by side, each member receives what they all deserve, and just like me earlier, once they got up, they've all been met with admiration by those in the throne room.
"By my authority as King, from now on, you shall be "Hero Knights of Heaven"! Let this moment be the inspiration and foundation of a new age shining upon us!"
I come forward and stand side-by-side with your majesty. Holding your majesty's sword, we both raise it up high as he's proudly declaring his words. Immediately, a round of applause echoes through the court.
The soldiers' cheering with excitement, the priests, now all standing up, keep on thanking us while the elite knights also come to each one of us for a handshake and some of their own thoughts.
"Man, this is like a dream come true…" Roman said, almost crying. "If my mom is here to see this, I bet she would be so happy and proud of me…"
"I'm sure she is Roman-san, I'm sure she is. After all, you've come so far haven't you? I don't just think, I know for a fact that she's the happiest person right now. I really wish mine was the same too…" I responded with a smile.
For the past five years, we've seen each other fight, grow and show respect to one another, and thanks to that, we're able to stand here together today on the same stage.
My time might run out anytime soon now, but at least in this moment, I can allow myself to cherish every second of it.
"And now, my loyal knights and soldiers! It is time for us to feast on this delightful occasion! From dawn till the deepest night, we shall eat, drink and celebrate! This kingdom shall hum with delight!"
With that, a party is held right here at the throne room. For the next three hours, the entire court became a place for us to enjoy all types of delicacies. From the finest wine of the South to the seafood freshly caught from the Wonder Sea, and even the best musicians to the West of Andorus Kingdom, they're all gathered here to give us the moment we'll never forget.
Although, that's not exactly why I'm here at the castle.
"Has it been ready, Burlap-san?"
Not too long after the party ended, my team arrived at the "Sorcerer Lab", where my returning portal currently resides. It was at the throne room when I was first summoned to this kingdom, and it was sitting here collecting dust up until a month ago.
"Oh yes Hero-sama, everything is all set." he responded. "Do not worry too much, I can assure you that you'll safely return to where you came from. No coma, no headache or puking."
"Ahahaha…Yeah I hope so. I do not want to recall that day at all." I said jokingly.
My memories of that fateful day…let's say that it's a mixed bag. I would love to share with you guys one day, but I guess you just have to wait until my embarrassment is completely gone.
"Huh, it does look a bit different from the last time I saw it…It's one of those adjustments I've heard about right?" Luna-chan asked.
"Ah yes Luna-sama, since the spell is to return, not summon, it's been modeled to fit with the change. Come close and feel it."
Stepping in front of the portal, she closes my eyes and senses it. From the appearance, it looks the same as it did five years ago. The crests on the panels, the symbols up on the top rails, the engravings all across the doors, it's all there, unchanged.
However, the magic circle below is a completely different story.
"The texture and symbols, although I'm quite familiar with them, aren't the same as the ones used to be there. Not to mention, the mana flow…it's running with a different pattern as well…Yeah, this is quite a work you did there, Burlap-san!" she exclaimed.
As for me, I also step right beside her and do the same. Although I'm not an expert on magecraft the way Luna-chan is, I come to the same conclusion as hers as well. I even touch the portal to have a better grip on what's about to send me back.
"I see…this is quite impressive, Burlap-san. Are you sure this was done in just a month?"
"Oh Hero-sama, age might catch up to this body, but my mind and spirit…they're still in their top shape. This old man still has a lot to offer, you know?" Burlap-san responded proudly.
While we're having a conversation, Luna-chan returns to my other two teammates. I'm pretty sure they're discussing something, but I decide to not over-hear it, knowing too well the consequences.
"So this is it huh…that time is finally here…" I thought, staring at the door.
Five years I've been waiting and fighting, it all comes down to this moment. Enemies I've slayed, friends I've made, allies I've come across, they're all the pieces needed for this very day.
It's been a fun ride everyone, but now, I must return. My people need me.
"Ah hey Aris-kun!"
"Hmm?"
Suddenly, Luna-chan calls out my name and walks towards me. Her face is blushing and a bit shy, while her teammates from behind are encouraging her to go on with no hesitation.
"Ah uhm…well, since this is your last day here, so…uhm…we thought that you should, you know, have something as a reminder of us and of this place. We've been thinking about it a lot…"
Then, she takes out a necklace from her hands. It's just a simple, old silver necklace with a cross on it. Despite that, it's still relatively in good condition, meaning it's been taken care of quite well.
"And we finally decided on giving you this." she said shyly. "It's not something deep or grand, it's just that…this necklace was a gift from the orphanage where I came from, so I thought maybe…it'll carry the same meaning to you."
She may be one of the toughest women I know, but sometimes, she can be quite emotional and soft. She almost cries while I'm still a bit hesitant. Fortunately, I'm not too naive to let that go on any longer.
"Thanks Luna-chan, I really appreciate it. I promise I'll keep this and our memories as careful as I possibly can."
With a gentle smile on my face, I happily received the necklace. Then, I immediately wear it on me and hold on the cross, looking at it pensively for a while.
"Hey now Aris-kun, at least give us some credits will you? We three all came up with this idea, so where are our "Thank you"?"
Johan and Roman, my two other teammates, suddenly join in our conversation. One of them has their arm around my neck as well.
They didn't mean anything bad, all they want is one last moment with me, and I shall grant it to them.
"Of course, you two are my most trusted men, how can I forget, right? Come here now."
Kissing the cross, I then give both my teammates a brofist and a warm hug. We then spend a few good minutes reminiscing on our old adventures, encounters and victories, with Luna-chan also chiming in of course.
"Ah, looking back, it's good to have you guys on my back. I couldn't ask for a better team than this." I said proudly. "I'm going to miss you guys a lot."
With those words, tears are finally coming down my team's eyes. You know one of those moments during a farewell where a group of people all kneel down on the ground, crying and hugging each other? Yeah, they're doing that exact same thing.
"Now now everyone, don't be like that. If you can't move on, how can you know if there's any limit to be pushed right?"
Honestly, I really want to cry too. After all, saying goodbye to someone you've known for this long isn't easy, and moving on is just a way harder task.
"We're the "Hero Knights of Heaven", we're not defined by these weak moments, but by how we'll rise from it and the legacy we left behind. No matter what, I want you guys to promise this."
I then raise my fist to them. Immediately, my teammates all calm down and stop sobbing. Soon, they wipe out their tears and get up, ready to hear my one and final words.
"I know you guys have what it takes to write new, greater chapters, so keep your heads up and move forward. My door is open right here for me, it's time for you guys to open yours."
Full disclosure, I did not rehearse this at all. In fact, I don't consider myself "great" with speeches. I just say whatever is inside my mind at that time and hope it might get to the people.
"*sniffle* yeah, yeah you're right. I shouldn't let myself get stuck in those illusions anymore. We've been titled with this knighthood, now it's time for us to fulfill that duty!"
Roman-san is the first to respond and the first to fist bump me. As for the other two, it doesn't take them too long to follow through, and each of them all have something to say to me as well.
"Are you sure you aren't good with speeches? Because I almost cried for the second time you know? But well, you're right. You've led us to our best five years ever, now it's my turn to do the same to myself." Rohan-san said with genuine emotion.
"Yeah, we've achieved so much together. Now I want to know if I can still stand on my own two feet." Luna-chan said, still a bit hesitating. "Of course, I'll still take care of these two idiots, so don't worry Aris-kun, they're in good hands."
"Hey who're you calling "idiots" huh?" Roman-san immediately responded.
"Do not let me start with something as trivial as laundry, Roman. I have an entire list of stuff you never bothered to wash! And you Rohan, don't think you're safe! I know too well you're trying to defend yourself, but that won't work!"
Ah I'm going to miss these bickering a lot.
They may be my perfect trio on the battlefield, but during our off-duty days, it's a whole new challenge in itself. In short, without me as the glue, they might have separated after just a week.
Although things have improved a lot throughout the years, it's not picture perfect. But hey, at least it's way less heated than it used to be, so if anything, I'm sure they'll be fine without me.
"Ah Hero-sama, I think it's time. You should step on it right away."
From behind, Burlap-san announces the situation to me. Although not as emotional as my team, I can definitely feel the sadness in his eyes, knowing I'm the only success of the "Summoning Ritual".
That moment changed everything around him, and using that momentum, he became the Head of the "Sorcerer Lab". It's a great achievement on its own, and he's grateful for it.
"No need to shed tears for me, Burlap-san. I'm sure you'll reach higher mountains even without me. After all, you did say that you still have a lot to offer didn't you?"
Holding back his tears, Burlap-san nods his head continuously. Then, he immediately gets his spell book, which he'll use to send me back.
"Alright, no more delaying. I've waited five years for this, and I shall not waste it any longer." I thought to myself.
As soon as I stand in front of the portal, the magic circle starts shining up. Contrary to the color red, this time, it's glowing pink, signifying the returning spell is happening.
"Fifty percent…fifty five percent…Sixty…just hold on for a second, Hero-sama!"
Not too far from the portal, Burlap-san is doing his best to keep the portal stable. His spell book and the magic circle were glowing wildly a little bit for the first thirty seconds, but he soon put them all under control.
"Huh, feels a bit off…probably it's just the spell…"
Suddenly, my stomach starts rumbling lightly, and my magic flow inside my body is furiously heating up. Immediately, I shrug it off, thinking it's nothing to worry about since I felt the same after I was summoned to this kingdom.
This time however, I should have put more thought into the situation.
"Swoooosh!"
A shining light emerges from the portal as soon as it opens. As it's covering me, I can feel myself being dematerialized. Every inch of my body, slowly and softly, becoming blue light particles, waiting for the final moment.
"Goodbye everyone."
Uttering those last words, I turn around, raise my hand and wave at my friends, before all my particles are being transferred through the door, and soon, my mind slowly goes blank afterwards.
My five-years journey to the other world has officially come to an end.
Or so I thought.
"Warning! Abnormal Intervention! Do you wish to deploy the "Rundown Protocol"?"
"Warning! Abnormal Intervention! Do you wish to deploy the "Rundown Protocol"?"
"Warning! Abnormal Intervention! Do you wish to deploy the "Rundown Protocol"?"
Huh, what is that noise?
My head feels heavy, and I can't even open my eyes properly, it's like…I was unconscious for a long time.
Just a few minutes ago, I was still living and breathing in a fantasy world full of magic and monsters, but now…why does everything feel so…fresh and uplifting?
"Warning! Abnormal Intervention! Do you wish to deploy the "Rundown Protocol"?"
Oh for god's sake, no! I don't want to deploy it, so just be quiet already!
Annoyed by the ongoing noise, I angrily wave my hand. The noise does eventually stop, however…
"Bam!"
"Argh!"
I waved too hard, causing myself to fall down. When I can finally open my eyes, I'm met with the shining yet warm light of the room, and soon, I realize that I was on my bed the entire time.
However, that's where the problem stems from.
"Huh, what the…where am I…what is this place?"
As I take a look around, I'm astonished by the fact that it looks so…modern. No wait, it should be "futuristic", and not just a few years ahead, it has to be a few decades at least.
Then, I take a good look at myself.
"Wait, my body…I'm supposed to hit my twenties already! Why am I still sixteen?"
Lifting my white T-shirt up, I suddenly realize I'm reverting back to my younger self. Although my body is still as strong as I can remember, it also feels so…alive.
"This feeling…what even is this? And those things too…"
I once again look around my "room", supposingly, and it confirms that my eyes didn't deceive at all: This place is far more advanced compared to what I'm used to.
For starters, instead of those good old-fashioned wooden beds with mattresses made out of fiber, foam or similar materials, it's something else that feels way more comfortable and lighter than even the most luxurious ones I knew. The same can be said to the pillows as well.
Not to mention, the bed doesn't have any legs, but instead, there's just the frame floating using some type of anti-gravity technology. As for the headboard, it looks like a "HUD frame" connecting to the bed, and when I put it in quotation marks…
"What the…I can touch it like it's still in solid form…and it feels so…soft and shimmering. It's like we're syncing with one another…"
"Password confirmed! Program activated! Welcome, Amakusa Saito-sama!"
Suddenly, the headboard starts speaking, catching me off-guard. On the headboard, where I'm touching now has a silhouette of my hand on it, and right next to it, a sound wave appears alongside my profile as well.
"Huh, what is this bed…and what's with all this stats and information…" I asked confusingly.
"Answer: The bed is made out of Trinity, a self-adaptive material made of compressed ether particles, bio-gel memory matter, and temperature-sentient fiber. It's a second-gen model made by Complexia Industry, released in 2119…"
I'm sorry, did you just say "2119"?
I know this technology does not belong in the 2020s at all, but that far? Shouldn't I be dead by that point? Why am I still here, why is my face on the headboard, and why does that voice sound so familiar?"
"Answer: I am T.H.E.N.A, but you might also know me by another name, "Tactical Heuristic Entity for Neuroadaptive Assistance". I'm one of your first creations using your "Nexus Heart", and we've been partners for the last four years, Master."
Wait, Thena…hold on a second, that "Thena"?
Like she said earlier, she was my creation from back then, but why is she on the headboard now? Furthermore, I heard her voice in my head, not out loud. What is going on here?
"Answer: It seems to me that there was an error during transportation, and as a result, instead of your original world, this is the one you were sent to."
Error? What do you mean error? I thought the whole process was flawless? What could have happened back there?
"Ah uh so Thena…do you know what was the error, how did it occur and can I even go back?"
Hearing my questions, Thena, now taking the form of the sound wave, starts vibrating while telling me that she's working on sorting out all that information for me as well.
Turns out, while I was unconscious, she was gathering every known information about not just the incident, but this world as well. Soon, the results pop out on the headboard, and needless to say, I'm shocked and terrified.
"No way, that's impossible…it can't be…"
In front of me, the information I asked is now in the form of an article, and in there, it said that my universe has been completely vaporized during an universe-ending war between planets, just two years before my supposingly "return".
"When the returning spell activated, it couldn't lock on the initial location due to it no longer existing, so it set out for the closest alternative, which is "Earth 225". However, since there's two Amakusa Kaito, both versions were merged together, physically and spiritually, to become one single individual with both memories."
Reading the article, I fell down on my knees, shaking and in tears. The idea of my home being destroyed with my loved ones is horrifying, and I can't just imagine it, it's literally on the cover, which makes it even worse.
Anger, despair, regret, sorrow…these emotions inside of me are just too overwhelming. Right now, I just want to let it all out and scream as loud as I can. At some point, all I can think about is how to end myself and this world too.
"But does it really matter if I die?"
I know I wasn't at fault for the tragedy, but at least, I could have been there with them during their last moment. I could maybe try to fight back that ending too, but now…it's all gone.
"Mom, dad, Hiyori-chan…I've failed you…If only…If only I was there, they could have been…"
Soon, the tears keep coming down more, and my head is completely blank for the next few minutes. Despite the light not turning off yet, right now, all I can feel now is an endless void of darkness, no way out and so far gone.
"Hey Thena, is there any chance of revival or recreation?" I asked desperately.
"Answer: The possibility of restoring "Earth 025" is viable, however, since the event was an "End Point", the success rate is no more than zero percent. I'm sorry Master." Thena responded.
"Ah no thank you, it was a big help…"
Then, for the next few minutes, I get on my bed and keep looking up to the ceiling. No words, no thoughts or even a single move of a muscle. All there is left is a lonely teenager, staring at the abyss without any ray of hope.
That teenager had spent the last five years surviving for one purpose only: To finish his mission so he can go home.
All those training and fights.
All those blood, sweat and tears.
All those days of fighting and uniting people from different races, eras and ideals.
And what welcomes him back home? A world he doesn't belong to, while where he came from blew up and torn to pieces for eternity. He's able to keep his body, but with the cost of the soul of other "him", which is practically considered "suicide".
The worst part of all of these? He doesn't feel lost, sorrowful or lonely. He just feels…nothing.
Nothing, not because he's heartless and egotistical, but more so on the fact that it doesn't matter anymore if he's sad, angry or drowned in revenge.
He has no choice but to move on, while his homeworld has hopelessly been put to rest, forever.
"But how…how can I do that when they can't…they don't get to…He doesn't get to. I stole that from him."
But then, somewhere deep below, something just hit me.
A fragment of the past? A light at the end of this abyss tunnel? One last second wind of desperation? Or maybe it's just a moment of distraught?
I don't really know how, and frankly, all I have in my mind right now is to get up and read the profile of this "me". Maybe by doing it, that tingling feeling inside me might have an answer.
"I see…This, and this one too…it all makes sense now."
Unlike me who had a decent time growing up, this Kaito is just an average kid who had a fairly rough childhood. Although he's also quite close to Hoyuri-chan, he's never able to keep up with her strength.
Yet, all those times, he never gave up, never complained or grew jealous. He kept on fighting, day after day, month after month and year after year. In some ways, he reminds me of my hero days.
That is, until I showed up.
"He deserved a better ending than having his soul being taken away because of a homeless version of him…I supposed I should have felt guilty after all." I thought.
I then once again get out of my bed and head to the windows. They still look relatively familiar with the ones back in my Earth, the only difference is that they can be digitally opened with just a flick in the air instead of using your good old hands.
"As expected…this place really is too much for me…"
While reading "his" profile, I asked Thena briefly about this world, to which she explained that despite all those futuristic advancements, this Earth actually has a fairly longer and slower history, which might help me adjust more easily.
However, it's the future after all, so the world still differs quite a lot from a hundred years ago.
"Huh, so it has evolved a lot from what I know…"
Looking outside, my first impression is that this world seems to favor transparency, as every house is made out of glass with no roof whatsoever. Each house also has its unique exterior and shape, all being surrounded by technologies I don't recognize, probably due to my memories still not fully recovered.
In addition, those walls surrounding the houses…I can sense something special from them.
"Answer: That is L.E.N.A, or "Localized Encapsulation & Neutralization Assistant". It's a sophisticated and compacted AI system built for home safety, discretion and harmony for the property. Created by Sonya Nakamoto, L.E.N.A has revolutionized home security and to this day, it's still one of the most impressive inventions from the 2080s' "AI race"." Thena told me.
"Huh, I see…and that hologram in front of the wall is a visualizer of the system, correct?" I responded, pointed at the blue projection.
"Answer; Yes Master, it is the default avatar for L.E.N.A, but owners can also customize it however they want. As for the wall, it's made out of Elythium, the strongest, smartest, most versatile and most flexible metal on Earth. It's also the element used for your headboard, Master."
Hearing that, I thanked her. Then, I close the window and turn around. For the next few minutes, I'm just staring at my bed, drowning myself in the sea of thoughts.
"Can I pull it off…Can I really live in this world for him…"
I've conquered so many obstacles back in my hero days, but this…this isn't really something I trained for. Physically, I might still have all my power, but do I still have the will to deliver it.
Wait, "hero"…oh yeah that's right, why did I forget about that so easily.
"A hero doesn't need to be the strongest, the fastest or the most powerful. He just needs to be someone with a heart and wilt to do what it takes."
Those words were the words I lived by for the last five years, yet in my most important moment, I left it out of the equation.
"It doesn't matter if I'm up for this or not. My heart told me to live for him, for the worlds I left behind and those who didn't get to do it, then as the Hero, I must do it with all I have."
Reminding myself, I immediately tell Thena to download everything there is to know about this world into my brain. As for me, since I was sleeping earlier, I decided to do just that while leaving the rest to my trusted assistant.
"A returning hero trying to adjust to a futuristic world…heh, sounds like a plot for a decent show…"
And so, the new adventure of the hero Amakusa Kaito has officially begun.