Pre-Prologue(2)

[...Let us proceed with introductions, Ren Amamiya. I am Eve, the Goddess ruling over Space, Time, and Destiny—a deity unknown to your world, for my presence, has never graced its shores. However, I have sought you out, drawn by the threads of your Destiny...to request your aid.]

With a name bestowed and purpose unveiled, the enigmatic Goddess Eve wasted no time delving into the essence of their encounter. She laid bare the circumstances that led her to this pivotal juncture, her words carrying the weight of danger.

Ren, captivated by the unfolding revelation, responded with a mere utterance, a testament to his growing intrigue.

"I see."

Eve, a higher being in the vast cosmos, revealed that she faced perilous threats from rival Gods vying for her dominion. Though capable of defending herself against many adversaries, she found herself in need of an ally, someone who possessed the potential to shift the tides in her favor. And it was the intricacies of Ren's own destiny that led her to seek his assistance.

[...For now, it is wise that you remain unaware of the intricate web I find myself entangled in, particularly the true identities of my adversaries. Revealing such knowledge would bring them to your doorstep, a scenario we must avoid at all costs. However, I grant you the knowledge of my name, for in our alliance, it shall prove essential. Know that the "Gods" in the world of Danmachi are but projections, mere facets of their true selves. Understanding their names is akin to grasping an adjective—insignificant in the grand scheme of things.]

"..Does this mean I have the potential to become a God as strong as you? why?"

Ren contemplated the implications of his newfound potential, his mind reeling with possibilities. Could he truly attain the same level of Godlike strength as Eve? Since otherwise, there would be no way to ask for an "ally" instead of a "subordinate" or "slave".

[To be candid, Ren, I do not possess the answer to your query. What I do know is that your aid will prove invaluable in our alliance, and my path, guided by Destiny, has led me to this fateful collaboration. Trust must be earned, and thus I propose a pact—a mutually beneficial agreement. I shall facilitate your reincarnation into the world of Danmachi, where your growth shall be nurtured. In return, once you have amassed sufficient strength to assist me, you shall stand by my side as a steadfast ally. The Gods of that world shall serve as both your training ground and potential adversaries. When the time is ripe, you may ascend to their celestial realm and face the mightiest deities that dwell there.]

Her words convinced me a little regarding her intentions. With interest and benefits in mind, I didn't feel the need to question why the Goddess was bothering to "assist" me any further. However, my skeptical nature still left me with a lack of information.

"...You propose a pact, correct? How do we do it?"

My voice carried a tinge of curiosity, mixed with a hint of guardedness. The Goddess responded with what I interpreted as a smile, though it was difficult to discern her true emotions.

[That is a simple matter.]

As she spoke, a piece of papyrus materialized in her hands, along with a pen. I watched in fascination as she effortlessly wielded her divine power to conjure these objects.

'...That's kinda cool, no joke.'

While silently admiring her abilities, I refrained from commenting and instead waited as she focused on writing something on the parchment.

[Here, read it. I have detailed the conditions we must abide by in this pact. It is an alliance where both parties are considered equal. Although you may have doubts about my sincerity, I assure you that I am committed to the terms. I always follow my Destiny, regardless of the circumstances. If I were to deceive you now, it would hinder my own objectives.]

I accepted the offered pact and began reading its contents. The terms outlined a basic alliance contract, with each condition carefully delineated.

{

Basic Alliance Contract

1. Both parties must refrain from causing harm to one another.

2. Both parties must provide assistance when in danger or comply with reasonable requests. (Note: Goddess Eve's assistance to Ren Amamiya is limited due to his mortal state.)

3. Goddess Eve pledges to support Ren Amamiya until he surpasses mortal limits. Further support will be discussed based on Ren Amamiya's desire to assist her.

4. Ren Amamiya will offer his support to Goddess Eve in the future if he becomes stronger than her.

}

As I finished reading, a mix of skepticism and amusement welled up within me. The conditions seemed peculiar, almost comical.

"You think I'll become stronger than you? Do you take me for Noah Osmont¹ or something?"

A hint of self-deprecating humor laced my words, although making such a joke felt foreign to me, even in the presence of my own wife.

[I wish you had that level of growth. It would be ideal if you could match my strength within a few years. However, don't worry. Time holds little significance for Gods. These particular deities won't make any significant moves for billions of years, as they are likely preparing. You'll have ample time to grow sufficiently powerful. By the way, it typically takes billions of years, even for the most gifted individuals, to reach a level where they can "Ascend" to Godhood.]

Unexpectedly, the Goddess responded with a touch of lightheartedness, but her serious tone quickly reminded me of the weight of our situation.

"...I've been thinking. I don't quite grasp how it all works. Is the Danmachi World the same as the "Danmachi" I'm familiar with? Will the "story" unfold exactly as I know it from the moment I arrive there? Because that seems utterly unrealistic to me."

My words conveyed a sense of skepticism and a desire for clarity. I couldn't help but question the plausibility of stepping into a fictional world and having everything play out as expected. After all, my experiences had taught me that reality rarely adhered to the neat narratives found in stories.

---

1. Noah Osmont is the protagonist of "Infinite Mana in the Apocalypse". He grows a lot in a short amount of time, thus the comparison.

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