Chapter 1: The Heroic Act

On a seemingly ordinary day, , a 21-year-old delivery worker, navigates the bustling streets of his city. The routine is all too familiar—morning till evening, delivering packages, his only solace being the conversations with friends online. Life is peaceful, yet an undeniable monotony clings to his existence.

This particular day, however, is destined to diverge from the mundane. As he weaves through alleyways, a distressing scene unfolds: three men cornering a young girl, her fear palpable even from a distance. Instinctively, memories of video games, where he stands as the hero against all odds, flood his mind. With a surge of adrenaline, he doesn't hesitate. Today, he decides, he will be that hero.

Charging into action, Aeon confronts the assailants with a courage he never knew he possessed. The fight is chaotic—a flurry of fists and dodges. He moves with an unexpected agility, his arms and legs striking with precision he's only ever executed in virtual battles. One by one, the kidnappers fall, each succumbing to his unexpected prowess. It's a scene straight out of the games he cherishes, except the pain and fear are real.

Breathless, Aeon turns to the girl, extending a hand, expecting gratitude or relief. Instead, she screams—a sound that pierces the air and confounds him. Confusion morphs into shock as he feels an agonizing pain tearing through his abdomen. Glancing down, he sees the blade—a silent thief of life. The world blurs as he collapses, the alleyway fading into darkness.

In the void, time loses meaning. He floats in an endless expanse until a voice shatters the silence. "Yo, when you going to get up?!" The words are casual, almost annoyingly so. Blinking open, he's greeted by an overwhelming brightness, an endless white void with no walls, no ceiling, just light.

He sees a figure, nonchalant, seated on what appears to be a throne of casual design. Panic and confusion propel him upright. "Where am I? Where's the girl?" His voice is laced with urgency, a mix of fear and the need to understand.

The figure, unfazed, rises from the throne, a presence that commands attention despite the casual demeanor. "The girl is fine. She ran away. But she left you, and now you're here," he states matter-of-factly, as if announcing something as mundane as the weather. The omission of the explicit declaration of death hangs in the air, replaced by a heavy implication that Aeon's life as he knew it has ended.

Panic grips Aeon as the reality of his situation sets in. "I'm...here?" he stammers, voice cracking under the weight of his newfound reality. The thought spirals into chaos within his mind. He had so many things left unsaid, so many connections tethered to his existence back on Earth. He never got to say goodbye. The realization that his family, his online friends, might never know what happened to him, or worse, that they would grieve his inexplicable disappearance, sends him into a frenzy of disbelief and sorrow.

"How can this be happening? My family... my friends... Do they even know? Will they ever find out? Wait… I forgot to clear my browsing history before I left home!" His questions pour out in a frantic stream, directed at the figure before him but fueled by an internal storm of regret and confusion.

Aeon's distress paints a stark contrast to the serene, endless brightness of his surroundings. His mind races with thoughts of unresolved issues, words left unspoken, and the stark reality of leaving a life unfinished. The casual demeanor of the figure before him does little to comfort his spiraling thoughts, leaving him grappling with the sudden and unyielding truth of his untimely departure from the world he knew.

This emotional turmoil marks a poignant moment in Aeon's journey, as he confronts the initial shock and denial that comes with the realization of his own departure.

After the shock of his abrupt departure from life begins to settle, Aeon, still grappling with the reality of his situation, turns to the enigmatic figure for guidance. "What should I do now?" he asks, the weight of eternity suddenly pressing upon his shoulders.

"Well, you could go to heaven...or maybe even...hell," the figure teases, a playful glint in his eye.

"HELL? NO WAY!" Aeon exclaims, his reaction swift and filled with dread.

The being laughs, a sound that seems to lighten the heavy atmosphere surrounding them. "Just kidding. Your heroic acts have deemed you worthy of heaven," he says, then smirks, "Or...you can have another chance at life."

Without hesitation, Aeon declares, "Take me to heaven." His tone is stern, resolute, as if the thought of any alternative is inconceivable.

"Wait, no, you didn't let me finish!" the being protests, amusement still dancing in his voice.

"Why would I want to go back to a world where all I do is work and do absolutely nothing?" Aeon counters, his voice laced with bitterness. The monotony and unfulfillment of his past life loom large, casting a shadow over the notion of rebirth.

The being responds, his smirk evolving into a knowing smile, "Who said you're going to be reborn into the same world?"

That's when everything changes. Aeon's eyes, previously clouded with resignation, ignite with a spark of curiosity, of hope. The possibility of a new beginning, not just a continuation of the life he knew but an entirely different existence, opens before him like a door to the unknown.

The being's words hang in the air, offering not just a second chance at life but a second chance at adventure, at purpose, at a life far removed from the drudgery that had defined his existence on Earth. It's an offer that carries with it the promise of the extraordinary, of stepping into a realm where the limitations of his previous life no longer apply.

This moment of revelation marks a pivotal turn in Aeon's journey, standing at the crossroads between the afterlife and a new life in a different world. It's a choice that encapsulates the essence of the Isekai genre—the leap into the unknown, the opportunity for reinvention, and the allure of a life that transcends the ordinary.

Scene: The Choice

IIn the midst of an overwhelming brightness, where the concept of space and time seems to dissolve, Aeon finds himself face-to-face with an entity whose presence is as commanding as it is enigmatic. This being, who introduces himself as Elduris, is not just a figure of authority but also one of divine allure. His appearance is striking, a testament to the power he wields and the realm from which he originates.

Elduris's god-like appearance is both awe-inspiring and intimidating. His eyes, a deep, vibrant red, burn with an intensity that seems to pierce through the very fabric of reality. They are windows to a soul that has witnessed epochs unfold, realms formed, and the rise and fall of countless civilizations. These eyes, glowing with an otherworldly light, reflect a wisdom and power that transcends mortal understanding. Yet, within them, there's also a hint of sorrow, a remnant of the betrayals and battles that have scarred his existence.

His hair, a stark contrast to the somber depth of his eyes, is of the purest blonde, reminiscent of the first light of dawn. It cascades around his shoulders in a mane that seems to capture the essence of the sun itself. Despite the casual design of his throne and the serene backdrop of the endless white void, Elduris's hair imbues him with a regal, almost celestial, aura. It waves gently in a non-existent breeze, further emphasizing his detachment from the physical laws that govern the mortal world.

Elduris's appearance, marked by his red eyes and blonde hair, serves as a visual representation of his dual nature—his immense power and the burdens that come with it. He is a being of light and darkness, his divine attributes marred by the trials he has endured. His casual demeanor belies the turmoil and conflict that have defined his existence, making him a complex figure of both reverence and empathy.

"If you follow what I ask of you, in return I shall grant you unimaginable power," Elduris offers, his voice echoing with a solemnity that captivates Aeon's full attention.

Aeon, ever the skeptic, can't help but question the terms of this sudden offer. "What's the catch?" he inquires, his eyes locked onto Elduris's, searching for any hint of deceit.

Elduris's expression shifts, a shadow of sorrow passing over his features. "As you can see, I am actually imprisoned here. Out there, in the vastness beyond this place, there are more gods, quite like myself. They betrayed me. In my efforts to aid them, they cast me out, locking me away in this eternal prison. Your heroics in your world have not gone unnoticed, Aeon. I believe you are the one who can save me from this torment."

The weight of Elduris's words settles over Aeon, a heavy cloak of responsibility and uncertainty. To be chosen by a god, albeit a forsaken one, for a mission of such magnitude was beyond anything he could have imagined in his previous life. The promise of power is alluring, yet it's the story of Elduris's betrayal and imprisonment that tugs at Aeon's heartstrings. The notion of divine beings, so powerful and yet so fallible, intrigues him.

Aeon finds himself at a crossroads not just between life and death but between his past self and the person he could become. The opportunity to embark on an adventure that transcends worlds, to wield power beyond his wildest dreams, and to possibly right a cosmic wrong presents a path he never could have envisioned.

Yet, with every great offer comes the shadow of doubt. The risks involved, the battles that lay ahead, and the sacrifices that might be required loom large in his mind. Elduris's plight, while compelling, is a tapestry of complexities and unknowns. Aeon contemplates the depth of the gods' betrayal and the nature of the power Elduris promises. What would it mean to align himself with a god cast out by his own kind? What trials would he face in a quest to free Elduris?

As Aeon stands before Elduris, the Forsaken Sovereign, he realizes that this decision could redefine his existence. This isn't merely about accepting a new lease on life; it's about stepping into a role that could alter the balance of divine power and reshape worlds.

"Elduris, if I choose to help you, what exactly would you have me do? And what are these powers you speak of?" Aeon asks, his voice steady, betraying none of the turmoil and curiosity raging within him.

The stage is set for a tale of redemption, power, and a quest that spans the realms of gods and men. Aeon's decision at this juncture will not only determine his fate but could also unravel the destiny of Elduris and the very fabric of the universe itself.

Elduris's request hangs in the air like a sword of Damocles, casting a shadow over Aeon's newfound purpose. The thought of hunting gods, let alone eliminating them, sends a shiver down his spine. "Kill gods? How is that even possible?" Aeon wonders aloud, the concept so far removed from his reality that it feels like a plot from one of his video games.

Elduris, sensing Aeon's hesitation and disbelief, elaborates, "These gods are not as you might imagine. They are demons, each embodying one of the seven deadly sins: pride, greed, lust, envy, gluttony, wrath, and sloth. Their powers are a manifestation of their sin, a curse I bestowed upon them for their transgressions."

Aeon listens, his mind racing to process this revelation. The idea that these beings, these gods, are actually flawed, corrupted entities is a lot to take in. "You placed the sins upon them?" he asks, incredulous. The notion that Elduris, a god himself, could be responsible for such a curse adds layers of complexity to his character.

Elduris smiles at Aeon's question, a hint of melancholy in his laughter. "Am I the god of all gods? Hardly. But once, I wielded enough power to judge and punish those who strayed from their paths. My intentions were to guide them back, but instead, they turned against me, imprisoning me here."

The conversation shifts Aeon's perspective. Elduris is not just a victim of betrayal but also a being of immense power and moral complexity. The task at hand, daunting as it may seem, is steeped in divine justice, a battle against corruption and sin itself.

"So, you're saying these gods... or demons, they wield powers based on their sins? How am I supposed to fight against that?" Aeon's question is valid. The thought of facing entities that personify the deadliest aspects of human nature is daunting.

Elduris's response is measured, "With the power I grant you, you will have the means to confront them. Each has a vulnerability, a flaw within their sin that you can exploit. Your humanity, Aeon, is your greatest asset. Unlike them, you can grow, learn, and adapt. You possess the potential to embody virtues that counteract their sins."

This mission, Aeon realizes, is more than a quest for Elduris's freedom. It's a fight against the darkness within, a journey that will test his resolve, challenge his understanding of right and wrong, and force him to confront the very nature of power and corruption.

Elduris's proposal is not just an offer of unimaginable power; it's an invitation to partake in a divine drama, to play a role in a cosmic battle that spans the breadth of human vice and virtue. Aeon stands at the precipice of this epic saga, poised to make a choice that will define his destiny and possibly the fate of worlds.

"Alright, Elduris. I'll do it. I'll take on this mission. But I need to know everything. How do I find these gods? How do I fight them? And how do we ensure that, in defeating them, we don't end up becoming just like them?" Aeon's resolve hardens, his voice carrying a determination that surprises even him.

Elduris nods, a look of approval in his eyes. "Wise questions, Aeon. The journey ahead is fraught with peril, but I believe in you. Let us begin your preparation. The path to salvation is long, and the battle against sin is as much within as it is without."

The pact is sealed, and Aeon's journey into the unknown, against foes of divine origin, begins. With Elduris's guidance, he will navigate a world filled with danger, deceit, and the very embodiments of sin. But in this quest, Aeon may also discover the true extent of his courage, compassion, and perhaps, his own divinity.

As Elduris instructs, Aeon extends his hands, the air between them crackling with unseen energy. The moment their palms touch, the world around them erupts into chaos—an ethereal tornado encapsulates them, its winds not of this realm, swirling with vibrant colors and unfathomable power. Aeon's senses are overwhelmed; the very fabric of his being feels like it's being torn apart and stitched back together. Elduris's red eyes pierce through the maelstrom, glowing with an intensity that is both terrifying and mesmerizing. His blonde hair flows wildly, an otherworldly flame in the tempest.

"I'm transferring some of my power to unlock your latent abilities in this new world," Elduris declares over the roar of the energy storm. His voice, though calm, carries an undercurrent of urgency. "Find comrades along the way. We will be in contact."

Aeon, struggling to maintain consciousness amidst the torrent of sensations, manages to utter, "Wait, how would we contac—" Before he can finish his question, the vortex engulfs him completely. The last thing he sees are Elduris's eyes, promising power, purpose, and an unbreakable bond.

Then, silence. The tumultuous journey through the vortex abruptly ends, depositing Aeon in a starkly different reality. He finds himself lying on the soft, verdant ground of a dense forest, the air fresh with the scent of moss and earth. Sunlight filters through the canopy above, casting a kaleidoscope of light and shadow. The tumult of the vortex is replaced by the serene symphony of nature—birds singing, leaves rustling, and the distant sound of a stream.

Aeon takes a moment to gather his bearings, the memory of the vortex still vivid in his mind. He feels different—energized, as if his body is thrumming with a newfound power. Elduris's gift, whatever it may be, has changed him. He stands, taking in the beauty of the forest, a stark contrast to the urban landscapes of his previous life.

As he explores his new surroundings, Aeon realizes the gravity of his situation. He is alone in an unfamiliar world, entrusted with a divine mission to confront gods. The thought is daunting, but the power coursing through him fills him with a sense of purpose. He remembers Elduris's words: "Find comrades along the way." The journey ahead may be fraught with danger, but it is also an opportunity for alliances, friendships, and growth.

With each step, Aeon feels the weight of his new destiny. He knows he must learn to harness the powers bestowed upon him, understand the world he's been thrust into, and navigate the complexities of divine politics. The path to freeing Elduris and confronting the gods will be perilous, but Aeon is no longer the delivery worker from Earth. He is a chosen hero, marked by a god, on a quest that will test the limits of his courage and determination.

As he ventures deeper into the forest, the reality of his new life settles in. This is the beginning of Aeon's story—a tale of adventure, power, and the search for allies in a world where the line between gods and demons is blurred. The challenges ahead are many, but Aeon is ready. With Elduris's power within him and a world of possibilities ahead, he steps forward into the unknown, his heart set on the journey ahead.