Inspired by ENTRAIL_JI's introduction, author of "The Author's POV"....

I must also be honest and give a disclaimer on this spin-off fanfiction novel for those about to read.

Inspired by GUILTYTHREE's book "Shadow Slave"....

....it is fanfiction because it is inspired and set in the world and lore of "Shadow Slave." Obviously. The original universe, Spell system, a few characters (such as mentions of Immortal Flame and his son's cohort), and known lore of the gods/daemons belong to Guiltythree.

However, there will be lore additions...

...that are nothing more than a steppingstone for this fanfiction.

It is a spin-off because it will follow an original character of mine named Hope—Yes yes. I know. I hear you—set in North America a few years before Sunless, the main character of "Shadow Slave", was born.

(There will be elements and parallels to the original novel, however, their purpose in the long term will have a different trajectory for the story.)

EASTER EGGS!

The fun part of fanfiction, or any spin-off medium, is that there are easter eggs pointing to the original novel.

You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story.

Some may be intentional for the plot.

Others will be just for the fun of it to point out.

Whether intentional or unintentional easter eggs, it will be up to the readers to figure out. Have fun treasure hunting. However, don't expect an easter egg in every single or other chapter.

You'll know when you know. You know?

But do not read this novel expecting the same writing style or the same setting as "Shadow Slave." Like ENTRAIL_JI has said, 'It'll just ruin your experience.'

I'll confess that it is more of a dystopian setting, considering in the synopsis mentioning restrictions of entering the Dream Realm.

Also, my character cusses a little more.

So, if that kind of character is not your thing,

Then well, now you know.

He is also an anti-hero so be aware that he is very capable of doing heartless acts either for the sake of good or "just because." That is the type of character he is. Some people surprisingly don't understand that concept, so be advised. Read it with an open mind and not expect the same pattern, journey, or the exact same character type. Similarities? Yes.

But my work cannot be on par with GUILTYTHREE's.

If you have those expectations, then by all means drop it and continue reading GUILTYTHREE's work on "Shadow Slave." That story is beautiful in itself.

UPLOADING SCHEDULE!

There isn't one exactly.

Maybe I'll upload 1-2 times per week, or every two weeks, because it is a side-hobby, a small passion, that I want to put out there. Now I'm no great writer either. I'm taking the step forward to write something down in which perfection paralysis has kept me stagnant for so long. So yes.

It is bad. Surprise.

So, if you are willing, please bear with it. Write some advice and criticism in the comments but not outright death threats or hate. Yall sadists.

If it is that bad, then you do not have to force yourself to read any further.

Eat wasabi instead.

But for those of you that stay, thanks.