In the shadowy confines of a small mountain village, a single hut stood isolated from the rest of the world. Within its modest interior, a young boy lay sprawled on the rough wooden floor, barely clinging to consciousness. The hut's only source of light was a peculiar red pearl, its crimson glow pulsating rhythmically in the dimness.
As the boy's eyelids fluttered open, a haze of confusion and weakness clouded his vision. His body felt heavy, almost as if it were burdened by invisible chains. The boy's gaze drifted to the red pearl, its light intensifying and beginning to swirl. From the swirling crimson light, a spectral visage began to take shape, an eerie face that radiated an unsettling aura.
The boy's heart quickened with dread as the spectral image spoke in a haunting, otherworldly tone. "Kid, it's quite remarkable that you survived the soul devourer's attack. It's a rare feat, but don't mistake this for an end. Your soul is still deeply wounded and will require a long time to heal."
The boy struggled to process the chilling words. His thoughts were interrupted by a sudden flash of light before him. A new prompt materialized in the air, glowing with an otherworldly shimmer:
Immortal Simulation System is now online.
Another message appeared, this one offering a choice:
A beginner gift pack is available. Do you want to open it?
With little time to think and his instinct driven by a desperate need for aid, the boy selected Yes. The system responded instantly:
Congratulations, host has been rewarded with a Healing Potion and a Mythic Simulation Point.
Before he could react further, another prompt flashed:
Host is critically injured and may not survive beyond a month. The system will automatically use the Healing Potion.
A strange, radiant energy surged into him. It flowed with a soothing rhythm, penetrating both his body and soul. The energy worked its way through his wounds, mending physical injuries and healing deep, inner scars. The intense agony that had gripped him slowly faded, replaced by a profound sense of relief and restoration.
As the boy's strength returned, he turned his attention back to the crimson shadow. The spectral face looked on in apparent shock, its expression reflecting an unexpected mix of surprise and contemplation.
The boy, now more coherent but still wary, met the shadow's gaze with determined eyes. "Who are you?"
The shadow's gaze remained fixed on the boy, searching for something deeper. "Your survival is both unexpected and remarkable. It seems fate has more in store for you. But now, I ask you, boy—what will you do with this second chance that has been granted to you?"