Chapter 1: A New Dawn
The sun rose lazily over the horizon, casting a soft glow across the barony of Eldoria. In a humble manor nestled in the countryside, young Balthazar Awlenn stirred from his slumber, groaning at the arrival of the new day. As the youngest son of Baron Awlenn, Balthazar was often forgotten and overlooked, living in the shadow of his four accomplished older brothers. He was the only son of the only concubine baron had with, but his real mother had soon died after giving birth to him. Initially the Baroness did care for him, just like her own sons, but slowly she started to ignore him as his talent was below average.
Balthazar sighed heavily as he sat up in bed, his fluffy nightcap slipping over his eyes. At seventeen, he was gangly and awkward, with a mop of unruly brown hair and a smattering of freckles across his nose. His usual attire consisted of simple tunics in drab earth tones, a stark contrast to the fine silks and velvets favored by the nobility.
As he dressed for the day, Balthazar's mind wandered to his latest humiliation. Yesterday, while out on a hunt with his brothers, he had accidentally spooked a deer, sending it bolting into the forest. To make matters worse, he had tumbled off his horse in the process, landing in a muddy ditch. His brothers had laughed heartily at his misfortune, their derision cutting deeper than any sword.
Suddenly, a blinding light filled the room, causing Balthazar to cry out in alarm. As the glare subsided, he found himself face-to-face with an ethereal being, its form shimmering like moonlight on water.
"Greetings, Balthazar Awlenn," the entity said, its voice resonating with power. "I am Eros, the god of love and desire. I have chosen you to be my champion in this world. As such, I grant you the ERO System, a divine tool to aid you in your quests."
Balthazar gaped at the god, unsure whether to believe his eyes. "M-my lord, what exactly is this system you speak of?"
Eros chuckled, a sound like silk sheets rustling. "The ERO System will award you points based on your interactions with women of influence and prestige. Engage in lewd acts with them, and your reward will be even greater."
Balthazar's eyes widened in shock. "You want me to... to seduce noblewomen?"
Eros smiled enigmatically. "Indeed. And with these points, you may purchase items from the ERO Shop to enhance your strength and abilities. The possibilities are endless."
With a flourish, Eros produced a glowing panel that hovered before Balthazar. It displayed a list of options, including 'ERO Points,' 'ERO Shop,' and 'Character Information.'
Balthazar approached the panel tentatively, reaching out a hand to touch it. As his fingers made contact, a jolt of energy coursed through his body, filling him with a newfound sense of purpose.
Eros nodded in satisfaction. "Use your newfound powers wisely, Balthazar. The world is yours to conquer."
And with that, the god vanished in a shower of golden sparks, leaving Balthazar alone with his thoughts and the mysterious ERO System.