Ethan staggered as he stepped out of the cockpit, the remnants of his starship groaning around him. The crash site lay in a shallow valley surrounded by rugged terrain, far from any bustling cities. While the ship had sustained damage, it wasn't completely wrecked. From what he could understand, most functions were probably still operational, but he couldn't say for sure. The realization made his stomach twist; he was far from being a space pilot.
He took a deep breath, forcing himself to calm down. The chaotic moments before the crash replayed in his mind. Just as he completed his transmigration, the ship's AI had malfunctioned. Alarms blared, and the cockpit lights flickered as the ship lurched violently, sending him hurtling toward the surface.
Ethan somehow activated the ship's systems, his voice shaky. "Hello?"
"Booting up… Welcome, Ethan Walker. I am Iris, your onboard AI," the voice replied, smooth and authoritative. "You have crash-landed on Kynara, a planet within the borders of the Orion Federation."
Ethan blinked in surprise. "An AI? How futuristic. Also, how do you know my name ?"
"I have recognized you as the ship owner and captain. Your data has replaced previous logs due to a system malfunction," Iris explained. "Most functions of the ship are intact, but the engines are offline. You can hold orbit, but space travel requires repairs."
Ethan frowned, feeling overwhelmed. "Repairs? I don't even know how to pilot this thing properly, let alone repair it."
"I will assist you in navigating your current situation. You should consider relocating to a more secure position away from the crash site," Iris suggested.
"Let's find somewhere remote, then," Ethan said, urgency gnawing at him. He had no idea how to deal with this universe's intricacies yet, but he needed to make decisions quickly.
The ship lifted off, the hum of the engines providing a fragile sense of security as they broke free of the valley. As they soared above the rugged landscape, Ethan gazed out at the stark terrain. Kynara was dry and barren, dotted with peculiar rock formations and patches of resilient flora. The contrast to his old life was staggering.
After a few minutes, they found a secluded area on the outskirts of Valeris City, a settlement that appeared more substantial from above but still showed signs of neglect. Ethan commanded Iris to land, and the ship descended smoothly, touching down in a hidden clearing surrounded by sparse trees and rocks.
Once grounded, Ethan took a moment to gather his gear before stepping outside. The air was dry and warm, carrying the scents of dust and distant vegetation. He knew he had to stay inside for a while, far away from prying eyes, to learn more about his situation and the world he'd crash-landed in.
"Iris, begin analysis of local conditions and cultural information," he instructed as he settled back into the cockpit. "What do I need to know?"
"Analyzing… Please hold," Iris replied, and the screens flickered with data. "Kynara is home to a large population of various alien races, including humans. The planet has seen better days, now a mere shadow of its former self under the Orion Federation. The currency used across all galactic nations is Galactic Credits."
Ethan furrowed his brow. "Galactic Credits? How do I get some?"
"Typically, they are earned through labor or trade. Since you are new here, it would be wise to consider joining the local mercenary guild, which operates independently and is known for its neutrality across various factions. They provide a platform for talented civilians to learn how to pilot ships, gain jobs and increase their reputation," Iris explained.
Feeling the weight of uncertainty settle in, Ethan leaned back in his chair, struggling to process the surreal situation. How he ended up in this strange new world remained a mystery, and he couldn't help but wonder humorously if that damn Bento box from Lawson had somehow been the catalyst. Yet deep inside, there was also a flicker of curiosity and fear about the mysterious force that had brought him here and gifted him this ship.
His priorities were clear: survive, adapt and carve out a better life for himself in this universe. This was a fresh start, a chance to escape the grind of being a small cog in the corporate machine and live on his own terms, free from the constraints of his old life.
It wasn't as if he had anyone to go back to, anyway. His parents had been dead for years, and his life as a 31 year-old expat in Tokyo had been marked by isolation. As a salary man, work had consumed his days, leaving little room for anything else. He'd long since abandoned the idea of relationships after university, choosing instead to focus solely on his career. But even that had felt empty. Now, in this strange new world, he wasn't weighed down by the past. He had no ties, no lingering regrets. Just the desire to survive and make something better of himself.
"What about food? I'm not exactly used to nutrient capsules," he asked, focusing on the practical.
"The only rations available on your ship are nutrient capsules. They are the cheapest food option across the universe and are designed to meet the nutritional needs of every race," Iris replied. "I recommend consuming them before venturing out, as it will allow you to maintain your strength while you gather information."
Ethan exhaled slowly, feeling the weight of uncertainty settle in. He couldn't meet anyone yet while still ignorant of the planet's common sense, everything from language to social customs. He needed to understand this universe before stepping into the light.
"Check the ship's rations," he instructed, curious about what supplies he had at his disposal.
"The ship contains a supply of nutrient capsules, water, and emergency medical kits. All are intact," Iris reported.
Relieved, Ethan took a moment to explore the supplies. "Let's take inventory and then I'll eat before deciding our next move."
As he examined the provisions, he contemplated how far removed he was from his old life. He had been an average salary man, not accustomed to survival in a harsh environment. The thought of confronting mercenaries, bandits, space pirates, or unknown alien races was daunting.
After securing a few nutrient capsules and a canteen of water, he leaned back in the cockpit, fatigue settling in. The ship was his only sanctuary for now, but he felt a sense of purpose rekindling within him. Once he learned the lay of the land, he could plan his next moves carefully.
As he glanced at the control panel, the enormity of his situation loomed larger. This world was full of dangers and opportunities. With Iris's help, he could navigate through it, starting with small missions to earn Galactic Credits and gradually building a reputation. Perhaps he could find a way to repair his ship and eventually rise through the ranks of the mercenary guild rumored to operate in the area.
Whatever challenges lay ahead, he was ready to face them head-on. This world was filled with potential, and he would carve out a place for himself in it !