Dimly lit orbs floated lazily in the vast, unending void, casting a faint glow on the only tangible object in the space—a plush, red sofa. The rest of the world, if it could even be called that, was wrapped in oppressive darkness.
"Sigh…"
The sigh echoed endlessly, carrying a sense of profound boredom. The entity lounged on the sofa, its head propped against one arm, its fingers idly tapping on the edge. It looked human—almost. The sheer magnitude of its mana betrayed its inhumanity.
Its hair, black as the void itself, flowed like liquid, endless and restless, spreading out and rippling like an eternal stream. The entity's eyes were an unsettling pure white, devoid of pupils, yet brimming with emotion—frustration, amusement, and something far darker.
Standing, the entity's hair rose and moved as if alive, its motion drawing faint motes of light like fireflies to its presence. Taking a step forward, it began to hum a haunting melody that resonated through the space. As the incantation left its lips, its ethereal voice sent ripples through the void, harmonizing with the echoes until a wicked smile crept across its face.
"It's near," it whispered, eyes glinting with mischief.
-----
My name is Lili.
I'm a dragon kin from a small, hidden village. My mother sent me out into the world to learn, to grow, and to bring change to our home. And wow, was the outside world overwhelming. New sights, new people—everything felt like stepping into an entirely different universe.
After much effort, I managed to get accepted into Proven Academy, the most prestigious institution in the empire's capital. It's where nobles, geniuses, and powerful individuals from across the realm gather to complete their studies.
But it's been… tough. It's only been a week, and I already feel like a fish out of water. Everyone here is incredible—strong, smart, and impossibly talented. Nobody wants to be my friend, though. But I'm not lonely! Really! I keep myself busy exploring the academy and eavesdropping on juicy gossip.
And speaking of gossip…
One name keeps popping up in every conversation: Yen Von Sumidra. The youngest son of the Marquisate Von Sumidra, his family is famous for their ability to summon legendary beasts and spirits. Yen is not only the student council president but also wise, friendly, and… kind of perfect.
But no one's perfect, right?
That's why I decided to stalk him. For research, of course.
-----
Right now, I'm perched on the second floor of one of the academy buildings, watching Yen walk through the courtyard. He smiles warmly at everyone who greets him, and I can't help but analyze him.
Emerald eyes. Silky brown hair. Tall, with a toned figure. And that smile—it's definitely practiced, but it still manages to make my heart race.
BAM!
I slammed my forehead into the window.
"Why am I just noticing him now?!" I hissed, pressing my hands to my burning cheeks.
The next day, I took my research to the next level. I climbed a tree outside the student council office, munching on a piece of bread while peeking through the wide windows. Yen was seated at his desk, reviewing papers and signing them with the grace of someone born for responsibility.
He's always busy—either working, leading forums, or tutoring others. His closest friend, Julian, the son of a count, often drops by to joke around, their playful banter breaking the monotony of Yen's otherwise serious demeanor.
One day, I followed him to an abandoned garden at the farthest corner of the academy. Suspicious, right? Turns out he was just… training. Shirtless. For two hours. Without taking a single break.
Sweat trickled down his toned chest, his muscles flexing with every move.
Why am I still watching him?
By the end of the week, I had all the evidence I needed. Yen wasn't just a genius or a gentleman—he was perfect. And I, Lili, had fallen for him.
-----
Today's the day.
I stood nervously at the academy gates, rehearsing my lines over and over.
"Hi, I'm Lili. I like you."
No, too short.
"What if he rejects me? Should I say something else? I should be friends with him first then."
I tugged at my hair in frustration.The skies were dark and gloomy, as if it was saying today's not a good time.
Then, his carriage rolled up.
"This is it," I muttered, steeling myself. I took a deep breath and stepped forward but turned my back.
"I'll do it next time haha, why is it cold? There's still time, right?"
C-C-C-CRRRACK!
A blinding bolt of lightning struck me before I could enter the gates.
I died.
-----
"AHHHHHHHHH!"
I woke up screaming, my heart pounding in terror. Everything was dark—except for the soft glow of floating orbs in the distance.
"AHHHHH—okay, stop," I scolded myself, trying to calm down.
"Come here, kid."
A voice echoed, smooth and otherworldly, sending shivers down my spine.
Floating aimlessly, I flailed my arms and "swam" toward the orbs. As I got closer, something invisible lifted me up and set me down on my feet.
And there it was: a sofa. I walked near it, confused as to why it was the only thing here.
"What…?"
The sensation of something wet startled me, and I looked down to see a river of black liquid flowing beneath me. But it wasn't cold—it was oddly comforting.
"You're stepping on my hair."
"AHHHHH!" I screamed again, spinning around to see the source of the whisper.
Standing before me was a tall figure with dark skin, flowing black hair that spread endlessly like a river, and unsettling white eyes. It smiled, one eyebrow raised, and walked past me to sit on the sofa.
"You're still stepping on it."
"S-sorry!" I jumped back, stumbling away from the flowing strands.
"Sit with me."
I hesitated before perching at the very edge of the sofa, as far away from him as possible.
"Where am I? What are you? Did I die?" I asked, not daring to look at him.
The entity tilted its head, amused.
"Let me introduce myself. I am Keios, an ancient god. Forgotten but still existing. I killed you and brought your soul here to talk to you personally."
"You WHAT?!"
Keios waved dismissively. "I'll bring you back."
"WHY DID YOU—AHHHHH!" I jumped as his face suddenly appeared inches from mine.
Keios laughed, the sound strangely beautiful and terrifying.
"My death is near," he explained. "Before I disappear, I wanted some entertainment."
"By killing people?"
"No." He raised his palm, the little twirled between his fingers. "By playing a game."
------
Lili gawked at Keios, her mind still racing to comprehend what she'd just heard.
"You killed me to have fun?" Her face grimaced.
Keios tilted his head, "Don't take it so personally, kid. You're back here talking to me, aren't you? And I did say I'll bring you back."
"That doesn't make it better!"
Keios leaned back, draping an arm lazily over the sofa's edge. His liquid-like hair flowed across the seat, curling and rippling around him like sentient waves. The glowing orbs continued their hypnotic dance, casting soft light on his enigmatic face.
"Listen, I get it. You're mad. But life is fleeting, and gods like me… well, we've got time to kill. Literally."
Lili's jaw dropped. She pointed an accusing finger at him. "You're insane! What kind of god does this?"
Keios chuckled, the sound vibrating through the void. "The forgotten kind. The bored kind. Now stop overreacting and listen, because I'm offering you a deal."
Lili crossed her arms, glaring. "I don't want your deal."
"Too bad." He leaned forward, resting his chin on his hand. "You don't really have a choice. You're going to play my game whether you like it or not. But hey, there's something in it for you, so maybe try looking a little less… hostile."
Lili's glare deepened. "What could you possibly offer me to make me want to go along with this ridiculous game?"
Keios's smirk made her uncomfy. He leaned closer, his pupil-less eyes glowing faintly. "How about… Yen?"
Lili froze. Her eyes darted to his. "W-what about him?"
Keios leaned back, a smug look plastered on his face. "I know you've been stalking him, kid. You're not exactly subtle."
"I wasn't stalking!" she protested, her face heating up.
"Climbing trees to watch him work? Following him to the abandoned garden? Drooling over his abs during training sessions?"
Lili's mouth opened and closed, her cheeks now flaming red. "I… I wasn't drooling!"
Keios laughed again, the sound rich and infuriating. "Don't worry, I'm not here to judge. I'm here to help. Play my game, and I'll make sure you get your chance with him."
Her lips parted as she stared at him. "You… you mean…"
"I can tip the scales in your favor. Nudge things along. Give you a little edge in that charming, awkward way of yours."
Lili narrowed her eyes. "Why would a god care about my love life?"
Keios shrugged, a nonchalant wave of his hand. "Like I said—fun.The only thing you have to know is I chose you, for a reason. And, of course, you'll get some very useful perks along the way."
"Perks?"
Keios's grin turned sly. "Oh, yes. Your dragon kin powers are impressive, but they'll pale in comparison to what you could unlock through my game. Imagine abilities that could rival the gods themselves."
Lili's heart skipped a beat. The promise was tempting, almost too good to be true. But something about the way Keios said it sent a chill down her spine.
"And… if I refuse?"
Keios's playful expression darkened, the light around him dimming slightly.
The void fell silent, and Lili swallowed nervously. "Fine," she said through gritted teeth. "But only because you're forcing me. I don't trust you one bit."
"Smart girl." Keios clapped his hands, and a glowing screen materialized in the air in front of Lili.
__________________
Welcome, Player #0
__________________
"What… is this?" Lili asked, blinking at the text on the screen.
Keios leaned back, watching her reaction with amusement. "This is your interface. It'll guide you through the game. Missions, challenges, rewards—all the fun stuff."
Lili frowned. "And what exactly do I have to do?"
Keios's grin returned. "The system will give you options. Your job is to complete at least one of the paths presented to you. Think of it as a series of challenges. Succeed, and you get stronger. Fail, and… well…"
Lili stared at him warily. "And what?"
Keios waved a hand dismissively. "Let's not dwell on failure. Focus on winning, kid."
The screen flickered, displaying a new message:
____________________________
Your First Mission:
Confess your feelings to Yen.
Reward: Fire Manipulation Skill Upgrade
_____________________________
Lili's eyes widened. "WHAT?!"
Keios burst into laughter. "Perfect timing, huh?"
"This is ridiculous! How am I supposed to—"
"Figure it out." Keios's tone was teasing. "That's the fun of it, isn't it?"
The screen flickered again, this time with a countdown timer.
________________________
Time Remaining: 48 Hours.
_________________________
"No, wait! I need more time—"
Keios stood, his hair rippling as he gestured toward the darkness. A swirling vortex appeared behind him, its pull growing stronger by the second.
"Good luck, Lili," he said with a wink. "I'll be watching."
Before she could protest, the vortex sucked her in, the world spinning wildly as she fell. The last thing she heard was Keios's laughter echoing in her ears.