stupidOwl

"Beyond the Forest of Despair" follows the journey of Chrome Wayfarer, a seventeen-year-old boy overwhelmed by despair. In his world, where talent and lineage define one's worth, Chrome is seen as worthless—not because he lacks talent, but because his lineage is considered insignificant. Those with strong backgrounds often bully those without, overshadowing any talents they may have. Chrome's father's choice to marry for love rather than wealth alienated their family from their wealthy relatives, leaving Chrome and his parents struggling to make ends meet. The constant ridicule and lack of prospects drive Chrome to a desperate act: he attempts suicide by jumping off his rooftop.

But fate has other plans. Instead of death, Chrome awakens in a mysterious forest filled with strange and eerie noises. The forest, known locally as the "Forest of Despair," marks the boundary between the familiar and the unknown. As Chrome stumbles through the thick woods, he realizes that he's in an entirely different world, confirmed by the sight of two suns in the sky.

Emerging from the forest, Chrome encounters a vast city some miles ahead, surrounded by high walls and a central tall tower that looks as if it reaches the sky. His sense of wonder is interrupted by a lady riding a wyvern on patrol, who lands near him. The forest of despair is a known no-go zone, and the sudden appearance of a gigantic creature, which he mistakes for a dragon, causes Chrome to lose his balance and fall, his face filled with fear and uncertainty. The lady, noticing his bruised and battered condition, refrains from pressing him further and offers to take him to safety within the city.

In this new world, Chrome discovers that every soul born here receives a unique system—an inherent guide aiding in growth and development. However, because Chrome's soul is not native to this world, he finds himself without one. This lack of a system sets him apart, challenging him to navigate his new surroundings without the inherent advantages others possess. As Chrome embarks on his journey, he must rely on his wits, determination, and newfound allies. Whether he discovers a system of his own or finds alternative ways to overcome the challenges ahead remains to be seen.

"Beyond the Forest of Despair" tells the story of Chrome's journey as he moves from a life overshadowed by despair to one filled with new possibilities. As he faces the trials and mysteries of this new world, Chrome learns that true worth isn't determined by external factors or systems, but by the courage to overcome despair and seek out hope. This is a tale of resilience, discovery, and the search for a new beginning, as Chrome finds his way beyond the shadows of his past and into a brighter future.

Table of Beyond The Forest Of Despair

Table of contents

Volume 1