The darkness was absolute, a heavy blanket that suffocated all in its grasp. But within this void, a spark flickered to life. Kian's consciousness stirred, his mind foggy and disjointed.
Memories of his past life flashed before his eyes like a haunting melody. He remembered the days of being a typical high school student, struggling to find his place in the world. The memories of being bullied by his classmates, the feeling of powerlessness, and the desperation that followed.
The image of his crush, Emily, being pushed by the bully leader, and Kian's instinctive reaction to save her. Kian recalled the sensation of being thrown out of the classroom window, the wind rushing past him, and the feeling of weightlessness. He remembered trying to break his fall, but it was too late. The impact was immense, and everything went black.
As Kian's memories solidified, his surroundings began to take shape. He found himself in a strange, unfamiliar world, surrounded by towering trees and winding vines. The air was thick with an otherworldly energy, and the sky was a deep, burning crimson.
A faint hum filled the air, a vibration that seemed to resonate deep within Kian's chest. He looked down at his hands, and his eyes widened in shock. They were no longer human.
Scales glinted in the faint light, covering his arms and hands. Wings, strong and wide, sprouted from his back. Kian's mind reeled as he stumbled forward, his new body awkward and unfamiliar.
But with each step, he felt a surge of power and strength flow through him. He was no longer the weak, helpless boy he once was. Kian's eyes blazed with determination as he gazed out at the unknown world before him.
Just then, a figure emerged from the shadows. It was the old man who had offered Kian reincarnation.
"Well done, young one," the old man said, his eyes twinkling with warmth. "You have taken the first step on your new journey."
Kian approached the old man, curiosity burning within him. "What is this world?" he asked. "And what happened to my old world?"
The old man nodded, as if expecting these questions. "Your old world was one of humanity's many attempts to create a utopia. But, as with all things, it was flawed and ultimately led to its downfall."
Kian's eyes widened in shock. "What about my family, my friends?"
The old man's expression turned somber. "I'm afraid they are gone, Kian. But do not worry, for you have been given a rare gift – a second chance at life."
Kian's thoughts swirled with emotions, but the old man's next words snapped him back to attention.
"This world, Kian, is one of wonder and danger. You will face countless challenges, but also opportunities for growth and discovery. To survive, you must become strong – stronger than you ever thought possible."
Kian's determination ignited within him. "I will become the strongest," he vowed.
The old man smiled, his eyes glinting with approval. "I have no doubt you will, Kian. But remember, becoming the strongest is not just about physical power. It is also about understanding yourself and the world around you."
Kian nodded, taking the old man's words to heart.
"Why am I here?" Kian asked, his curiosity getting the better of him. "What is the purpose of my reincarnation?"
The old man's expression turned enigmatic. "That, Kian, is for you to discover. Seek the reasons for your fate by becoming the strongest. The journey will be long and arduous, but I have faith that you will uncover the truth."
With that, the old man vanished, leaving Kian to ponder his words.
Kian's eyes blazed with determination as he gazed out at the unknown world before him.
"I will become the strongest," he vowed, his voice echoing through the land. "I will uncover the truth about my fate, and I will make my mark on this world."
And so, Kian's journey began.