Chapter 1: A New Life
The camera flashes lit up the night as the crowd chanted, "Ian! Ian! Ian!"
Among the sea of voices, declarations of love could be heard. "I love you, Ian!" someone shouted with enthusiasm. The energy was electric as fans gathered outside the LA Theatre for the premiere of Ian's new movie.
As Ian stepped out of his sleek black car, he took a moment to soak in the sight of the bustling crowd. With his wife at his side, they moved toward the red carpet, where the press eagerly awaited them. Photographers snapped pictures, and reporters jostled for his attention.
"Mr. Ian! Over here!" a reporter called.
Once in front of the microphones, the questions began:
Reporter 1: "Ian, do you think your movie will be a success tonight?"
Ian: "It all depends on the fans. If they love it, then it'll be a success. But I'm confident. Our team and crew worked very hard to make this project a reality."
Reporter 2: "You seem optimistic! Any predictions for the box office numbers?"
Ian: "I can't speak for the global box office yet, but I'm hoping for at least $100 million in North America."
Reporter 2: "$100 million? That's a given! Your movies always hit that mark!"
Ian: "Thank you, Lindsay."
Turning to Ian's wife, another reporter chimed in.
Reporter 3: "Mrs. Aveline, you look stunning in that black dress tonight. Can you tell us what the movie is about?"
Aveline: "Thank you, Nancy. The movie explores the different aspects of human life and follows the journeys of individuals overcoming their struggles in unique ways."
Nancy: "That sounds amazing! I hope it's received well tonight."
Aveline smiled politely. "Thank you, Nancy. We'd love to chat more, but we can't be late for our own premiere!"
Hand in hand, Ian and Aveline made their way toward the theater, leaving the fervent crowd behind.
As they walked, Ian glanced at his wife. "The crowd is wild tonight. They're going to love the movie."
Aveline laughed softly. "I know they will."
But beneath Ian's glamorous life as a movie star lay a hidden truth—one that no one, not even his wife, knew. Ian wasn't just a man living his dream; he was a reincarnated soul from another reality.
---
The Past Life
Before becoming Ian, he was Ray—a regular office worker in the United States. His life had been unremarkable. No wife, no children, and a mountain of college debt. Much of his income went toward paying his mother's medical bills. Despite the challenges, Ray loved his mother deeply. She had always been his guiding light, even as her memory began to fade in her later years.
Ray's mother, Raelyn, had been a devout worshiper of Goddess Gaia. She was eccentric, spiritual, and deeply connected to nature. She often took Ray to the forest with her like-minded friends for rituals honoring the earth.
When Raelyn passed away, Ray's life spiraled into darkness. Grief consumed him, and he struggled to find purpose. Then, one fateful day, he decided to watch a movie at the local cinema. For the first time, Ray felt a spark of hope. The film transported him, helping him process his grief. It showed him that life, though painful, could still hold joy.
From that day forward, Ray became an avid movie lover. Cinema became his solace, a way to escape his bleak reality.
---
The End and the Beginning
One ordinary evening, Ray stopped by a convenience store after work. As he browsed the shelves, he noticed a young boy begging his mother for candy. Smiling faintly at the innocent scene, Ray went to the counter to pay.
Before he could hand over his money, two masked men stormed into the store, guns drawn.
"Everyone, stay still!" one of them barked. "Nobody will get hurt if you cooperate!"
Ray froze, his heart pounding. He wasn't a hero; he knew the difference between movies and reality. The cashier hurriedly handed over the money, but as the robbers turned to leave, the cashier pulled out a gun and fired.
The shot struck one of the robbers in the leg. In retaliation, the second robber opened fire, and a stray bullet hit Ray in the chest. Pain seared through him as he crumpled to the floor.
"Damn it," Ray thought bitterly. "The cashier's stupidity just got me killed."
As the world faded to black, Ray felt his body grow cold. His thoughts dissolved into nothingness.
---
Meeting the Source
When Ray opened his eyes—or what felt like opening them—he was no longer in the store. He was floating in an endless void, his essence reduced to a glowing sphere of energy. A blinding light appeared, and from it emerged a figure.
"I am the Source," the being said, its voice resonating with divine power. "I am the creator of the universe and all realities."
Ray, though stunned, managed to speak. "What happens to me now?"
"You will enter the cycle of reincarnation," the Source replied.
"What about heaven or hell?"
"Heaven and hell are human constructs. There is only reincarnation. You are free to live your life as you wish, provided you do not disrupt the balance of the universe. If you do, I will erase you."
Ray's mind reeled. "What about those who commit evil? Shouldn't they face consequences?"
"The light and darkness within you are both part of me," the Source explained. "Good and evil are human interpretations of my essence. You would not understand."
Ray asked about his mother, but the Source revealed she had already reincarnated. With no more questions, Ray prepared for his next life.
"I have one request," Ray said. "Can I keep my memories? But only unlock them when I'm ten years old."
The Source nodded. "It will be done. Now, state your three boons."
"My boons?"
"Yes. All reincarnated souls receive three."
Ray thought for a moment. "First, I want to retain my memories. Second, I wish for immense luck. Third, I want divine talent in everything I pursue."
"Granted," the Source said. "However, you cannot return to your original reality. You will be sent to a new one. Enjoy your life, Ray—or should I say, Ian."
In the blink of an eye, Ray vanished, reborn into a new world.
---