The frightening entity spoke in a cute and charming voice, telling me that I was selected to be the rescuer or "hero" of their own world.

A single tear trickled down my cheek, leaving a thin, horizontal streak of moisture across my face.

Because of happiness?

No.

Nothing to do with the fact that a brand new world has given me a new beginning.

Had it been just that at first, I probably would have cried.

The sheer joy I would have had is enough to make me want to jump for joy.

But

A tear unexpectedly dropped because...

I was cast as the hero

A position and a title I loathe with all my being.

Because I was coerced into serving in the military of my pitiful country, I met an untimely end.

Some people may tell you that if you join the military, you will become a hero.

Never did I aspire to be one; I was quite happy being the attractive, muscular man I was.

The reality I had hoped for was shattered.

I was fuming with rage, wondering, "Again? Surely I'll perish if I take on this responsibility.

Are you telling me that I would have another roadblock placed in the way of my second chance?

Absolutely not.

My self-assurance grew and I fully immersed myself in the experience. I addressed the circling eyes on wings in a casual manner.

I'm confused as to what you mean.

"You're not being as reasonable as you think you are."

"I have no say in the matter."

When questioned, it gave an answer.

“Do you mean you're turning down the part?”

To which I quickly replied.

"Obviously, don't you think you're being unfair"

"I'm fairly sure you'll be able to locate a far better suited person for that role."

A hush fell over the room.

There was complete silence in the distorted white void I found myself in.

The silence was deafening.

The strange figure in front of me began trembling.

The atmosphere was growing increasingly intense and constricting under my skin.

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Instinctively, I took three steps back.

Then, I began to take some deep breaths.

Breathing was becoming increasingly difficult.

All of a sudden, it started talking.

However, it no longer has a voice that is sweet and endearing in a feminine way.

Its voice as terrifying as its appearance only added to the terror.

As its rings began spinning at high speed, it spoke.

“You…dare”

"...dare to go against the will and judgment of my lord?"

“If so.”

“If that's what you really want to do.”

“If such happens, your chance of gaining a second chance in a new world shall be severed earlier than intended."

Simply put, I froze.

My voice gave out.

When I was alive, I considered myself among the bravest of the brave.

I was under the impression that courageous people are admired.

However, I am now staring at a monstrosity the likes of which I have never seen.

It was hopeless; I could do nothing.

I noticed that it started to move.

There were no legs on it, yet I'm sure it walked.

Like a starfish or a human in translucent balloon shoes, it walked on its tiptoes.

And all the while, its wings were cracking and twisting.

It turned its many eyes on me, which were scattered out throughout its body.

Not batting an eye for even a second.

Although it had no mouth, I could still make out its grin.

Laughter came from within it.

I was paralyzed with terror as it walked steadily toward me.

It horrified me.

Shockingly frightened.

And so, desperately needing to save face, I sprang into motion and spoke.

That one word was all I could muster.

“Hero.”

That's when it ceased.

“I’ll…do-it”

The tension in the air was gradually diminishing.

And its voice took on an adorable, feminine tone once more.

And it spoke back.

“Wise choice.”

“Then I'll just drop you down on our planet.”

"Hearikea's world."

“Are you prepared to go?”

“There will be no more delay.”

Whoa, hold up.

Not even a brief overview or history of Hearikea.

However, I simply could not bring myself to say it.

The creature freaked me out so badly, it was ridiculous.

Nervously, I gave a response.

“Y-yes.”

A response was given by it.

"Have no fear; I will accompany you on your journey."

Great. So it’ll be long huh.

Fantastic, in fact, I feel like I might cry.

I guess I need to get close to it if I want to have a good interaction with it.

I really hope it doesn't get all tense and frantic again.

My question was directed to the mysterious figure.

“Before we enter your realm, may I ask a question?”

“Please tell me your name.”

“You know, since we’ll be together from now on”.

Even though it had no human characteristics, I had the impression that it was surprised and even pleased when I asked what it was called.

It replied.

“Mireya”.

Instantly upon pronouncing its own name.

The world went dark for me.

This has to be it.

Transition from one world to another.

Forced to take on a heroic role.

Unfortunate.

Making negotiations with Mireya didn't appear to be going anywhere.

Well, there was obviously no turning back at this point.

I'll just do the bare minimum to get by.

I'm prepared to make the most of my second chance.

I am prepared to take on the challenges of this new world.

I think.