(Lee Jax's POV)
From Elysium, I gaze upon Aethoria, witnessing souls merge into mortal bodies.
A noble's soul, once accustomed to luxury, now inhabits a beggar's body. Disgust and horror dawn on his face.
"What sorcery is this?" he exclaims, staring at his weathered hands. "How did I, a noble, fall so far?"
Memories flood his mind: the beggar's struggles, hunger, and desperation. The noble's revulsion slowly gives way to curiosity.
He recalls the beggar's name: Ryker. A life of poverty, yet resilience.
Ryker's eyes, once dull, now sparkle with determination. He rises, donning tattered robes.
"Today, I'll face fate with courage," Ryker declares, zeal burning in his eyes.
I, the celestial observer, chuckle at the irony. Fate's law is indeed mysterious.
Another soul, a rogue cultivator, merges into a demon's body in the underworld. Redemption's fire ignites.
A free-spirited mortal soul merges into a middle-class working woman. Creativity sparks.
An egoistic soul reunites with its body, recalling past lives. Empathy and purpose emerge.
An orphan's body welcomes a young martyr's soul. Resilience and kindness shine.
A legendary cultivator soul reawakens in a soldier's body. Secret battles await.
A commander soul ignites in a researcher's mind. Discovery calls.
.......
*AETHORIA SYSTEM ONLINE*
*SOULS INFUSION COMPLETE*
*PARTICIPANT VERIFICATION SUCCESSFUL*
*WELCOME TO AETHORIA*
Greetings, participants!
Regardless of your background on Eden, it holds no value here. Your journey in Aethoria begins anew.
You have been successfully integrated into the world of Aethoria.
*SYSTEM PARAMETERS*
- Time Ratio: 1:1 (Aethoria:Eden)
- Log Out: Accessible via Status Menu
- Inter-Participant Recognition: Star symbol above heads
- Communication: System Communication Tab (Add Friends, Send/Receive Messages/Items)
*COUNTDOWN TO UTOPIA*
5 weeks, 3 days, 6 hours, 30 minutes, 53 seconds...
*SYSTEM MODE*
Exploration Mode Activated
*RECOMMENDED ACTIONS*
1. Explore Surroundings
2. Check Status and Quests
3. Socialize with Fellow Participants
4. Engage with NPCs
5. Join Guilds/Communities
*SYSTEM TIPS*
- Regularly check Status for updates and quests
- NPCs provide valuable information and guidance
- Guilds and Communities offer collaborative opportunities
*PARTICIPANT PROFILE*
- Name: Shen Eclipse
- Class: [Not Assigned]
- Level: Mortal(tier 1)
- Health: 100%
*SYSTEM COMMANDS*
1. Status
2. Map
3. Communication
4. Skills
5. Inventory
I stood in my luxurious bedroom, still reeling from Liam's call. The ridiculous nickname "Licking Dog 104" lingered in my mind.
Suddenly, a holographic display flickered to life before me.
_AETHORIA SYSTEM ONLINE_
_SOULS INFUSION COMPLETE_
_PARTICIPANT VERIFICATION SUCCESSFUL_
I watched, intrigued, as the hologram displayed system parameters and recommendations.
"Countdown to Utopia?" I muttered. What did it mean?
The hologram faded, leaving me with more questions.
A knock on the door broke the silence.
"Enter," I said.
The door swung open, and a towering figure filled the frame. His chiseled physique rivaled a bodybuilder's.
"Master Shen, your father requests your presence at the company," he announced, his deep voice commanding attention.
I raised an eyebrow. "What's the occasion?"
"You've returned from your world tour, sir. He'd like you to address the staff."
I nodded, recalling my father's expectations. As the future successor of Eclipse Enterprise, appearances mattered.
"Very well. Tell Father I'm on my way."
The bodyguard nodded and stepped aside.
As I exited my bedroom, I caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror. My eyes widen as I couldn't help but mutter: "Damm this body is handsome"
I stepped out of my bedroom, and the modern design of the manor took my breath away. Simple yet elegant lines, minimalist decor, and an abundance of natural light. Every detail screamed wealth, refinement, and impeccable taste.
As I descended to the courtyard, the crystal-clear swimming pool sparkled invitingly. Staff bustled about, attending to their duties with quiet efficiency.
I felt like a stranger in my own home.
Suddenly, a poised woman materialized beside me. "Good morning, Master Shen. I'm Emily, your new personal assistant."
Her smile was professional, her eyes sharp.
"Welcome back from your world tour. I've prepared your schedule for the day."
My mind reeled as she rattled off appointments, meetings, and events.
"9:00 AM: Address the staff at Eclipse Enterprise.
10:30 AM: Meeting with Father regarding company expansion.
12:00 PM: Lunch with potential investors.
2:00 PM: Photo shoot for Eclipse Enterprise's promotional campaign.
4:00 PM: Review quarterly financial reports..."
In the cultivation world, no one dictated my schedule. I cultivated, honed my skills, and met expectations.
This... was overwhelming.
"Emily, can you slow down?" I requested, struggling to keep up.
"Of course, Master Shen. I'll provide you with a detailed itinerary. Shall we proceed to the car?"
I nodded, still dazed.
The world outside became a blur as Emily continued outlining my day.
"Master Shen, we'll need to discuss your attire for the photo shoot. I've arranged for a stylist to meet us at the office."
My mind whirled, adapting to this new reality.
tion.
As we walked toward the car park,the sleek blue car awaited.
"Your car awaits,young master." Emily announced.
As I settled into the car, I couldn't help but marvel at its sleek design. This was no carriage, but a futuristic contraption that seemed to hug the ground. The vibrant blue hue glistened in the sunlight, its streamlined shape slicing through the air.
"By the heavens," I breathed, running my hand over the smooth leather seat. "This is incredible."
The driver smiled, meeting my gaze in the rearview mirror. "Glad you like it, Master Shen. This is a custom-made Eclipse Enterprise sports car."
I nodded, still awestruck. The architecture outside blurred together – steel and glass skyscrapers that defied gravity. Cement, I recalled, thanks to the body's memories.
As we approached the company, a sea of faces awaited. Maids and bodyguards bowed respectfully, their eyes cast downward.
"Welcome back, Master Shen."
"Good morning, sir."
Their deference made me feel like a king, atop the world.
Stepping outside, chaos erupted. Reporters pushed and shoved, desperate for a glimpse of me.
"Master Shen, what's your vision for Eclipse Enterprise?"
"Will you take over as CEO soon?"
I stood frozen, stunned. Even as the Holy Son of my clan, I'd never witnessed such fervor.
My bodyguards formed a protective barrier, ushering me toward the car.
"Master Shen, please."
As we navigated the crowd, I spotted a convoy of cars surrounding mine. Fans waved enthusiastically, holding banners with my name.
Then, I saw them – girls shedding their tops, revealing their bare breasts. I maintained a neutral facade, but inwardly, I reeled.
In the cultivation world, women were revered, their modesty sacrosanct. This was... different.
A sly smile spread within me. This world, with its bewildering customs and tantalizing beauty, was mine to conquer.
The car door closed behind me, shielding me from the mayhem.
"Let's proceed," I instructed the driver, my voice calm.
As we sped away, I gazed out the window, my mind racing.
This world would soon learn the true meaning of power.
.....
As the car glided through the city streets, I gazed out the window, fascinated by the urban landscape. Skyscrapers, billboards, and neon lights created a kaleidoscope of colors.
"Emily, what's the city's population?" I asked, curiosity getting the better of me.
"Approximately 5 million, Master Shen," she replied.
I whistled softly. "That's staggering. The entire cultivation world doesn't have that many people."
I nodded, lost in thought.
Reflections of my cultivation world life flooded my mind. Serene landscapes, ancient forests, and snow-capped mountains. The simplicity and harmony with nature contrasted sharply with Aethoria's fast-paced, technological advancements.
"Emily, how do people here balance their lives?" I asked.
"They prioritize, Master Shen," she replied confused, thinking that he is testing her knowledge. "Work, leisure, and personal growth. It's a constant juggling act."
I pondered her words.
In the cultivation world, balance came from harmony with nature and inner equilibrium. Here, it seemed to stem from efficient time management.
The car turned onto a bustling avenue, and Eclipse Enterprise's headquarters came into view.
"Master Shen, we're arriving," Emily announced.
Here's the narrative:
As we stepped out of the car, I gazed up at Eclipse Enterprise's headquarters. Sleek glass and steel towered above, the company's logo emblazoned on the facade.
"Emily, I'd like to explore the HQ before addressing the staff," I said.
"Of course, Master Shen. I'll escort you."
We entered the building, and the lobby's opulence struck me. Marble floors, crystal chandeliers, and a panoramic view of the city.
"Wow," I breathed.
Emily smiled. "Eclipse Enterprise spares no expense."
We navigated through secure checkpoints and corridors, passing by bustling offices and meeting rooms. Employees nodded respectfully as we passed.
I noticed various departments: Research and Development, Marketing, Finance, and more.
"Emily, what's the company's primary focus?" I asked.
"Eclipse Enterprise is a conglomerate, Master Shen," she replied. "We have diversified interests in tech, energy, healthcare, and finance."
I nodded, impressed.
We reached the top floor, where the executive offices were located. My father's office door bore his name: "Kael Shen, CEO."
"Master Shen, your father awaits," Emily announced.
I stood before my father's office door, nervousness creeping in. What if he noticed my soul wasn't his son's own? Would he sense the difference?
I took a deep breath and pushed open the door.
Inside, Kael's office sprawled before me, a testament to opulence. Floor-to-ceiling windows offered a breathtaking view of the city skyline. The room's centerpiece was a massive, mahogany desk, polished to perfection.
Behind the desk, a handsome man in his forties sat, engaged in a video call. His piercing gaze commanded attention, exuding an aura of authority.
The office's architecture reflected Kael's refined taste:
- Walls adorned with contemporary art pieces
- A sleek, black marble fireplace
- A sitting area with plush, leather armchairs
- A glass-walled private library
"Dad..." I called out, the word escaping my lips subconsciously.
The man's eyes snapped toward me, and I felt like an insect under his microscope. He seemed born to rule, with an air of superiority that made me shrink.
Kael, my father, wore a simple suit, yet it radiated power, as if the King of Finance himself had just arrived.
He broke the intense gaze, erupting into wild laughter. "You son of a bitch! Welcome to my humble company, Shen!"
Emily and I choked on our drinks, our eyes widening. If we didn't know the extent of Eclipse Enterprise's influence, we'd be nodding in agreement with Kael's jest.
"Ah, Shen, I see you're back," Kael said, composing himself. "Now, deal with the staff yourself. Win them over, or don't. It's up to you."
His dismissive tone caught me off guard.
"That will be all, Emily," Kael said, waving his hand. "Leave Shen to handle the staff."
Emily nodded and exited, closing the door behind her.
I stood alone, facing my father's expectant gaze.
"Remember, Shen," Kael said, his voice dripping with challenge, "in this world, only results matter. Prove yourself worthy of Eclipse Enterprise's legacy."
With that, he returned to his video call, dismissing me.
I left the office, determination burning within.
Time to prove myself.