Beyond the universe, in an unimaginable place, something "awakens" and directs its perception toward a particular universe. It creates a shadow's reflection and sends it to enter that world. Once done, the being seems to fall back asleep.
On a certain planet, deep within a dark underground forest, a being opens its eyes.
"Where am I?" It looks around, analyzing its surroundings.
"I need more information, but I'm unaware of the dangers lurking here."
"My current body appears humanoid. I don't know if I require oral sustenance, but without knowledge of local flora and fauna, I can't distinguish what's edible—let alone safe. My best option is to find a river and follow it. Intelligent civilizations usually settle near such places."
First, it tests its movements to adjust to this new form, then proceeds cautiously and stealthily in search of water. After hours of walking, it finds broken branches—somewhat sturdy upon inspection. Nearby, it gathers stones, chipping them against each other to create a crude cutting edge. Most shatter too easily, but one holds its shape. Using tree leaves, it fashions a makeshift rope to bind the stone to a branch.
Continuing its journey, it eventually spots a river. Keeping a safe distance from the bank to avoid alerting any creatures, it follows the waterway until—after what feels like an eternity—a city comes into view.
"This city has medieval-style architecture blended with technology. Merchant caravans enter through what must be a trade gate. But I don't know their language yet. I dislike risks, but it seems unavoidable this time. I'll gather intel first—perhaps intercept someone on the road. My perception isn't sharp enough; details escape me. I must focus better to avoid trouble."
Spotting a path, it follows until several kilometers from the city, then waits in hiding. Soon, a caravan appears. It observes silently, studying the travelers and their speech.
"Their language is intelligible to me. They keep mentioning 'Inventors'—a profession mixing science and mysticism? There's also talk of an energy called 'Origin.'"
Further eavesdropping reveals slavery was abolished after an event called the Cataclysm. Humans are now scarce, having allied with other races for survival.
"Good. My biggest fear was approaching someone only to be enslaved."
After deliberation, it decides to make contact—but first hides the improvised spear nearby for quick retrieval if needed.
"Greetings, sirs."
The guards tense, but seeing just a lone youth, they relax slightly—though remain wary.
"What do you want, boy?"
"I'm lost. Is there a city nearby?"
A noblewoman in the group—drawn by his striking features—intervenes:
"Your name?"
"Shaw."
"Alone?"
"Yes."
"Join us. We're heading to the nearest city."
A guard protests: "Milady, he's a stranger—"
"I've decided. He has no Origin energy fluctuations, and with your escort, what threat could he pose?"
As they travel, Shaw notes the eerie absence of creatures. Curiosity overrides caution:
"What happened to this area's wildlife?"
One guard answers: "You didn't hear? Bandits recently attacked a 'merchant caravan'—actually a noble's decoy. The escort slaughtered them, then ordered a 'road cleansing.' Every hideout near the roads—bandits, monsters, even unlucky travelers—was purged. With so few underground cities left, and skilled personnel scarce, anyone displeasing the nobles dies instantly."
Another guard studies Shaw: "You're lucky you wandered here post-cleansing. With no energy manipulation, even a stray beast would've killed you. That you're unarmed and clueless suggests you're from some isolated, sheltered village. What brought you out here?"
"Something like that," Shaw replies.
Through scattered conversations and a map glimpsed on a carriage, Shaw learns this world's structure: cities form defensive rings, with villages scattered inside.
Upon reaching the city—the same he'd seen earlier—they pass through a scanner that detects disguised creatures. Shaw notes various species: beastmen, elves, dwarves...
After verification confirms his humanity, he's finally permitted entry.