André and I stand at the platform of a quaint train station, a unique blend of rustic charm and futuristic design. The serene countryside stretches in all directions, with rolling hills and vibrant greenery. Above us, holographic ads shimmer in the air, their flickering displays marketing everything from enchanted tools to luxurious Aether-powered vehicles.
The hum of an approaching train grows louder, and soon a sleek, levitating bullet train glides into the station. Hovering inches off the ground, its futuristic design and seamless movement make it clear that Sylvestria's technology has far surpassed anything I've ever known on Earth.
Everything here—transportation, infrastructure, even household gadgets—is powered by Aether, the mana-infused rock that fuels this world's incredible advancements.
"Let's go," André says, gesturing for me to follow him aboard.
Inside, the train is nothing short of mesmerizing. The sleek design combines cutting-edge technology with magical enhancements, creating a futuristic and enchanting atmosphere. Luminous runes line the walls, softly glowing as they power temperature control and other features.
-Ring!
As we find our seats, the door seals shut behind us, and the train begins its journey with a gentle hum.
The speed increases dramatically within moments, and the countryside outside the window blurs into a vibrant panorama. I glance at the speed indicator above the aisle.
1200 mph.
Sylvestrian trains make Earth's fastest bullet trains seem like antique relics.
-Ding! Dong!
The train conductor's voice resonates through the cabin, smooth and professional.
"Bonjour, passengers. This is your train conductor. We will arrive in Aurelior, the capital city of Verdant Haven, in one hour and thirty minutes."
Aurelior. I should remember that name. Until now, I'd habitually called it "Verdant Haven City."
André interrupts my thoughts, pulling a small item from his bag. "Here, Dominic," he says, offering me a chocolate bar.
I accept it gratefully. "Thanks, Dad."
Unwrapping the chocolate, I eagerly take a large bite.
-Munch!
The sound of my overeager chewing earns a few disapproving glances from nearby passengers. My face flushes with embarrassment as André leans over and nudges me gently.
"Dominic, remember what your mother said about manners," he says, his voice calm but carrying a teasing edge.
I sigh, reciting her words under my breath. "Eat quietly and be mindful of others."
Moments like these remind me of how out of place I feel in this body. On the outside, I'm a 15-year-old boy, but inside, I'm still very much the adult I used to be. Yet, no one here can understand the complexity of my situation.
Turning to the window, I lose myself in the view. Snow-capped mountains rise in the distance, standing like sentinels against the horizon. Below them, sprawling fields of golden wheat and lavender create a patchwork of colors and a small village bustles with life. Aether-powered cars glide smoothly along cobblestone streets, blending tradition with innovation.
Sylvestria is breathtaking.
Its sheer scale—comparable to Jupiter—is awe-inspiring, and I can't help but marvel at the diversity each region must hold. The magic-infused cities, the uncharted wilds, the intricate cultures… this world has so much to offer and so much to uncover.
And yet, as beautiful as it is, I can't forget why I'm here.
This isn't just an adventure—it's survival. Each moment I spend in this stunning world is a step closer to the dangers I know are coming. But for now, I let myself enjoy the serenity of the journey, the beauty of the world passing by, and the quiet companionship of my father by my side.
════ ⋆★⋆ ════
One Hour Later…
André and I step off the train and onto the bustling platform of Gare des Étoiles, Aurelior's largest and most iconic train hub.
The station, a frequent setting in the web novel I remember, is as grand and chaotic as described. Its domed ceilings shimmer with magical constellations that shift and sparkle, casting ethereal light over the throng of people. Holographic advertisements float through the air, showcasing everything from enchanted accessories to Aether-powered vehicles.
The sheer volume of activity is overwhelming.
People are everywhere—commuters rushing to their destinations, vendors hawking their wares, and tourists marveling at the station's grandeur. The noise, the lights, the motion all start to make my head spin.
"Ugh…" I groan, instinctively clutching my temples.
"Dominic, take my hand," André says, his calm voice cutting through the din like a lifeline.
I look up to see his outstretched hand, and without hesitation, I take it. His firm grip grounds me as we weave through the crowds.
Finally, we emerge from the station and step into the heart of Aurelior itself.
The city is breathtaking.
It unfolds before me like something from an incredible dream—a perfect blend of magical wonder and architectural brilliance.
The streets are alive with a harmonious mix of tradition and innovation. Pedestrians stroll along cobblestone pathways, some taking to the skies on enchanted brooms or activating flight spells. Others opt for sleek, Aether-powered vehicles that glide effortlessly through the air or along the roads.
Above the city's skyline, my eyes are drawn to a towering structure. Its design is reminiscent of Earth's Eiffel Tower, but this is no ordinary landmark.
Flowering vines wind up its metallic frame, their vibrant blossoms glowing faintly with magical energy. It exudes life, blending artistry and enchantment.
That's Tour Fleurie—the Flowering Tower.
Its beauty is mesmerizing, but before I can fully appreciate it—
-Growl!
My stomach loudly announces its displeasure, snapping me out of my awe.
I glance at my watch. It's 11:14 AM. Considering we left home at 9:04 AM, spent ten minutes walking to the station, waited an hour for the train, and then endured another hour-long ride, it makes sense why I'm starving.
André hears my stomach and smirks knowingly.
"Why don't we grab lunch before heading to Le Centre Stargate?" he suggests.
The idea instantly lifts my spirits. The thought of exploring Aurelior's cuisine is thrilling. If Celine's cooking is anything to go by, the local food must be phenomenal.
"Dominic, you're drooling," André teases, snapping me out of my food-filled daydreams.
I quickly wipe my mouth, heat rushing to my cheeks in embarrassment.
"HAHAHAHA!"
André bursts into hearty laughter, giving my shoulder a playful slap.
"Dominic, I get that you're going through a growing phase, but I didn't expect you to be this… voracious," he says, amused.
He's not wrong.
Since I woke up in this world, my appetite has been insatiable. Maybe it's the heightened physical activity or my growing stats. Or maybe it's because, in my old life, eating well was a luxury I could rarely afford.
Now, standing in the heart of Aurelior with André, the prospect of a good meal feels like both a reward and a privilege.
"Alright," André says, clapping his hands together. "Let's find a place with the best croque-monsieur and maybe some éclairs for dessert."
With that, we head into the vibrant streets of Aurelior, ready to discover its culinary wonders.
════ ⋆★⋆ ════
-Ding!
Stepping into the café, I'm immediately enveloped by the rich, comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee and warm pastries.
"What would you like, Dominic?" André asks, his question grounding me in the present as I scan the expansive menu above the cashier.
The menu is practically a work of art, offering everything from classic Croque Monsieur and Quiche Lorraine to freshly baked baguettes and an array of colorful pastries that make my mouth water.
But one dish stands out, stealing my attention entirely: Ratatouille.
A memory flashes through my mind—an animated movie about a culinary rat who crafted this dish with such finesse that it melted a harsh critic's heart. The thought ignites a spark of excitement in me.
"I'll have the Ratatouille," I decide without hesitation.
André gives a nod of approval. "Alright, find us a table."
Navigating through the bustling café, I'm struck by the balance of energy and tranquility. Despite the crowd, the atmosphere feels warm and inviting, the hum of conversations blending harmoniously with the gentle clatter of dishes.
I spot an open table near the window, its two chairs unoccupied. As I make my way over, someone else reaches for the same chair at the exact moment I do.
Lifting my gaze, I freeze.
Standing before me is Célestin Moreau, the protagonist of the web novel.
Seeing him in person is surreal. He's exactly as described—his light blue hair flows like a gentle breeze, his sharp, captivating light blue eyes seem to glimmer with hidden wisdom, and the mole beneath his right eye only enhances his striking features. His lean yet muscular physique seems almost too perfect for someone his age.
For a brief moment, I feel like I'm staring at a living legend. But I snap myself out of it quickly. Nope, not getting swept away.
"...You can take this seat," he says courteously, his voice calm and polite.
"Oh, uh, thank you," I stammer, managing a response.
Célestin nods with a warm smile and moves on to find another table.
"Phew."
I exhale deeply as I take the seat, relieved the interaction was brief.
As much as I admire Célestin as a character, I know he's a walking magnet for chaos. His rare 'Time' magic attribute makes him a target for some of the most dangerous factions in Sylvestria, including the Umbrascourge, who want to exploit his powers to unleash Erebos and throw the world into chaos.
He's incredible, no doubt, but being around him now feels like an unnecessary risk. I'll keep my distance until I'm strong enough to hold my own.
Lost in thought, I'm brought back to the present when André approaches the table, balancing a food tray.
My eyes widen. Alongside the Ratatouille, a plate of croissants stuffed with ham and cheese—André's choice.
"Here we go, Dominic," he says, setting the tray down with a smile before taking the seat across from me.
The Ratatouille before me looks—and smells—divine. Layers of thinly sliced vegetables glisten with a perfectly balanced sauce, their aroma so inviting I can't help but lean in for a closer sniff.
It smells like heaven.
-GROWL!
My stomach growls loudly, breaking the moment.
Heat rushes to my face, and I blush furiously.
"Hahahaha!" André bursts into laughter, his hearty chuckles filling the air and drawing a few amused glances from nearby diners.
After wiping a tear from his eye, he grins at me. "Dominic, your appetite never fails to surprise me."
I can only offer an embarrassed smile in return.
"Alright, let's dive in, shall we?" André says, still chuckling. "Bon appétit!"
"Bon appétit," I echo, already reaching for my fork with unrestrained enthusiasm.
"Dominic…" André's tone carries a hint of reprimand.
"I know, I know—manners. But can you blame me? I've been waiting to try this forever," I reply, grinning sheepishly.
With that, I take my first bite of Ratatouille.
And it's everything.
The flavors burst across my palate—the sweetness of the tomatoes, the earthiness of the zucchini, the subtle tang of the sauce, all perfectly balanced. Each bite is a symphony of tastes, and I can't help but close my eyes to savor it fully.
DELICIOUS!
Without even realizing it, I'm devouring the dish with unbridled enthusiasm.
"Slow down, Dominic," André says, though his amused smile shows he's not bothered by my lack of decorum.
I pause briefly, embarrassed once again, before resuming at a slightly more restrained pace.
I take in the moment as we eat—a simple meal in a café with André. It's more than just food; it's a reminder of this second chance I've been given.
This life isn't just about growing stronger or preparing for battles. It's about savoring the small joys, indulging in experiences I never had before.
For now, I let myself enjoy the meal, knowing that the journey ahead will demand every ounce of strength and resolve I can muster. But for this moment, it's enough to simply live.