When I first fell into this world, 50 years ago, I was a disoriented, talentless mess. Even to this day, that fact stands true.

As an avid novel reader, I was quite familiar with the ways of isekai and xianxia, so I was initially excited, thinking I had been transported into the world of my dreams. Once an average nine to five worker, now an immortal prodigy! Or so I thought.

However, in truth, this world was not one of my dreams, but that of my worst nightmares.

In this world, humanity was treated as nothing more than slaves for the powerful demonic beasts who ruled the lands.

And it is in this world, where I was transported.

Over the years of living in this world, I have learned much, but also very little, as slaves don't need to be taught.

The extent to what I've learned is that of a toddler, barely knowing how to fend for myself among the many slaves fighting for limited resources the beasts didn't need.

I have been living this way for the past 50 years, hoping that one day I would stumble upon a fortuitous encounter, or maybe awaken a system of some sort, or a supernatural power. 

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But that notion of hope dies with me today, as I lay upon my deathbed.

I have neither stumbled upon any fortuitous encounters, nor have I awakened any overpowered system.

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"Sigh..." as I lay there, within my cramped hut, dried mud crumbling off the walls, I stare at the ceiling. It's not a pretty ceiling, and under normal circumstances, I would never glance at such a patchy, shoddy ceiling.

However, I have no choice as I have long lost the ability to move around, let alone stand up.

"How long has it been since I came here?" I mumble, finding that I barely have the strength to move my lips anymore.

Even on my deathbed, nobody comes to visit me. All I can do is lay there and regret what I didn't do in my life. Not because of lack of effort, but the lack of control over my own life.

As a slave, I was unable to even speak in the open, only being able to do so in this shoddy hut I've come to know as home.

"Well, it doesn't matter now anyways... I'm going to die today regardless." As I come to terms with my death, I let the cold grasp of the darkness take me away. 

In the end, even if I was coincidentally transported to this world, I was never able to realize my potential. 

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"Number 3002, get back to work!"

Startled, I jolt awake, my mind in turmoil. 'What? This isn't supposed to happen. Why am I a slave even in the afterlife?'

I fear the worst as I slowly come to and realize my surroundings.

'This is...' a familiar sight greets me as my mouth gapes in surprise.

It's the place where I was first transported, the Clear River Mine.

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A/N: this is my first novel I plan to take seriously. If you notice any mistakes or have suggestions, let me know in the comments.

Sincerely, Kage.