Hero Of The End

In a realm that contains nothing but emptiness, there exists a humanoid being. The being appeared majestic beyond mortal comprehension, cloaked in a white gown that concealed its features. One couldn't make out what the being truly looked like due to the radiant light it emanated, which added an air of mystique. The being's presence was indescribable; words like "perfect" or "madness" barely scratched the surface. Perfect, because there were no wasted movements in its actions. Madness, because to a mortal's eyes, it appeared to be performing the same action over and over.

The being repeatedly picked up a radiant ball from a crystalline river, observed it for an hour, and then placed it into another river flowing in a different direction. The only noticeable difference was the distinct color of each ball. The task was executed with robotic precision, as though the being was compelled to do this for an eternity. It was unclear how long it had been performing this ritual or how much longer it would continue. Then, as it was in the midst of its repetitive task, the being paused, its attention drawn to a particular ball. For the first time in eons, it had found something intriguing.

<>

I don't know how long I've been in this trance-like state. I can neither see nor hear anything from the outside. All I have are my thoughts and distant memories. I don't remember how long it has been like this or how much longer it will last. All I can do to cure my boredom is recall fragments of my past—the life I once lived, the good and bad moments, and the media I consumed. Series, anime, books, manga, and movies—they're all I have left. Even the faces of people I knew, loved, or admired have faded from my mind.

I know that soon even these memories will be gone, but I cling to them desperately to avoid becoming blank. The thought of losing everything, of becoming a hollow existence, terrifies me. Just as I was spiraling into despair, something began to change. Slowly, my senses returned. My thoughts grew clearer, and the unknown anxiety that had gripped me began to fade. It was a gradual, almost therapeutic process, as if orchestrated by some unseen force.

When my sense of sight returned, I noticed a being before me. It looked humanoid, but I couldn't be sure. Something about it made it clear that this being was responsible for my condition. The being was draped in a golden cape, its features obscured by a mysterious fog and an ethereal glow. Despite the concealment, its presence was captivating, almost divine. My calmness now fully restored, I couldn't help but notice how this situation felt straight out of an isekai trope. The thought made me chuckle internally. Gathering my courage, I broke the silence.

<>

The being, having picked the soul from the crystalline river, slowed time until everything became completely still. It was as if the universe itself acknowledged the being's intentions and acted in respect. With practiced precision, the being began restoring the soul, its movements deliberate and controlled. Any faster, and the fragile essence of the soul would have crumbled. Once the soul stabilized, the being shaped it into a more humanoid form, giving it a moment to collect its thoughts.

The silence was finally broken.

Soul: "Thank you... for helping me and... calming me... sir? Ma'am? Umm... god?"

Being: "Do not mention it, child. I am merely performing my duty. Relax; you may call me whatever you desire. I mean you no harm. In fact, I believe what I am about to do will greatly interest you."

The soul was silent, its mind racing with questions and possibilities. Could this really be what it was thinking?

Being: "I have observed that you mortals have quite the fascination with reincarnation. The stories you create through web series, anime, novels, fan fiction, and manga are truly fascinating."

Soul: 'So does this mean all the gods enjoy human media in some way? It's intriguing to think of deities finding entertainment in our creativity. Do they watch, read, or even participate? Well, I guess it makes sense. After all, they must have been around for eons and would need some form of entertainment.'

Being: "You are not entirely wrong in your assumptions, but not all gods are alike. Now, let us move to the main topic. I will be reincarnating you into a different world and granting you some boons. However, I will not make you overly powerful. Too much power would make things boring. Does this sound agreeable to you?"

The soul sighed in relief but was now flooded with questions about the boons and their limitations.

Soul: "Umm... God, may I ask about these boons?"

Being: "Hmm, the boon you will receive is a skill I obtained from someone else. It is called 'Devour.'"

Hearing the name, the soul felt a surge of excitement. The skill sounded immensely powerful. The being continued its explanation with the same monotone as before.

Being: "'Devour' allows its user to recover energy and stamina. Additionally, there is a small chance to acquire skills or traits from the devoured body."

Soul: 'Hmm, can this skill only devour dead bodies? If not, it could be incredibly broken.'

Being: "Yes, only recently deceased bodies can be devoured. I dislike granting too much power."

Soul: 'Thought so. What a bummer. Now the only question is about the plundering ability of the skill.'

Being: "The plundering ability depends on the user. Do not worry; this skill will find its use with you."

The soul nodded, digesting the information.

Soul: "..."

Being: "Now, let us discuss the world you will be sent to. This will help you choose your race and other details."

Hearing this, the soul grew more intrigued.

Being: "The world I am sending you to is an apocalyptic one. Monsters roam freely, societies have collapsed, and the environment is hostile and unforgiving. This world is teeming with mythical creatures, demons, angels, spirits, dragons, gods, and even aliens. It is a fractured existence, with everything struggling for survival."

Soul: "Umm... Are there no normal humans in this world?"

Being: "There are humans, but not in the form you are accustomed to. There are corrupted humans, psy-humans, and hybrids mixed with the aforementioned species. If you have more questions, you will have to find the answers yourself. It is more entertaining that way."

Soul: "Umm... God, is there a species that is half-human and half-dragon or something similar?"

Being: "Certainly. Such hybrids exist and possess immense mana aptitude and reserves, as dragons are beings equal to gods."

As the being explained, the soul grew visibly more excited at the prospect of choosing such a species. The potential for power and adventure was thrilling.

Being: "So, do you wish to be reincarnated as one?"

Soul: "Yes, please. And can you make it so that I regain my memories at six years old? I do not want to experience birth or early childhood as an adult. It would be... traumatic."

Being: "That can be arranged. Then best of luck, Souei—or should I call you by your new name, Ryokou?"

The soul paused as if remembering something deeply precious. A smile formed, as though a void in its heart had finally been filled. With that, Ryokou faded into unconsciousness, ready to begin his new journey.