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Chapter 1 - CH 1 Awakening in Somnia

Alex was a 22-year-old college student who lived in a modest apartment with his older sister, Sophia, in a bustling city. His parents, Charles and Ellen, had died in a car accident when he was only ten years old, leaving Sophia, who was then seventeen, as his legal guardian. Although the loss was devastating, Sophia took on the role of protector and parental figure for Alex, ensuring he had a stable and loving home.

Before the death of his pet, Alex's daily life was carefully structured. Each morning, Alex would rise early, almost always before dawn, to prepare for his daily routine. After a quick shower and a light breakfast, which usually consisted of a bowl of oatmeal with fruits, he would put on his workout clothes and head to the local gym. Working out was his outlet and a way to maintain his physical and mental health. He spent about an hour and a half at the gym, doing a combination of cardiovascular exercises and weightlifting.

After his workout session, Alex would return home, where he would take the time to prepare a healthy lunch. His diet reflected his commitment to his well-being: lean proteins, plenty of vegetables, and fresh fruits. Sophia often joined him for lunch when her work schedule allowed, and those moments were opportunities to catch up and enjoy each other's company.

Alex was a dedicated student of software engineering at the local university, and he spent his afternoons attending classes and working on projects. His passion for technology had led him to take a part-time job at a tech startup, where he helped develop mobile applications and websites. This experience not only complemented his education but also provided him with income to cover some of his expenses and save for the future.

At home, Alex's pet, a mixed-breed dog named Max, was his most faithful companion. Max had been a gift from his parents when he was a child, and since then, he had become an integral member of the family. Alex and Max spent their evenings together, often watching movies or just relaxing on the couch. Max was more than a pet; he was a constant reminder of Alex's happy childhood moments and a symbol of his parents' love.

On weekends, Alex and Sophia had a tradition of visiting the nearby park with Max, where Alex would take the opportunity to jog while Max frolicked happily. They also enjoyed picnics and reading together under the shade of the trees. These outdoor activities were a way to disconnect from the routine and strengthen their family bonds.

Alex's life, though marked by the loss of his parents, was a blend of study, work, exercise, and quality time with his sister and Max. He had found a balance that allowed him to move towards his goals while maintaining his physical and emotional well-being. But this balance would be threatened by the sudden death of Max.

This event affected him emotionally, leading him to abandon his exercise regimen, a practice that had always helped him maintain his emotional equilibrium. His emotional deterioration soon manifested in his daily life. His poor performance in school led to an academic suspension, while his inability to meet his job responsibilities resulted in his dismissal. The downward spiral of his professional and academic performance further highlighted his personal disintegration, leaving him in a cycle of frustration and isolation. Alex, now facing a life that seemed to be falling apart around him, was desperately seeking an escape from his suffering, a relief that always seemed to be just out of reach.

In the midst of his despair, one night, Alex fell into a dream that felt strange to him. When he opened his eyes, he found himself in a dense and vibrant forest, surrounded by lush vegetation and exotic fauna. The trees, tall and majestic, rose above him, their leaves shimmering in shades of emerald green and sky blue under the sunlight filtering through the canopy.

Vividly colored flowers adorned the forest floor, and unfamiliar creatures glided among the shrubs, emitting melodious and strange sounds. The air was filled with a sweet and refreshing fragrance, unlike anything Alex had ever smelled before. In the distance, the sound of a bubbling stream added a serene melody to the environment.

As Alex wandered through the forest, a barely perceptible vibration spread through the air, as if someone or something was trying to make contact. Perplexed, Alex stopped and watched as a flash of light transformed into a holographic blue rectangle. A voice manifested, cold and metallic, resonating like a digital echo.

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► User Identified: Alex

► Current Level: 0

► Innate Ability: "Eye of Truth" LVL 0

► Current Capacity: Vision Extension to 3 miles.

► Additional Functions: ????

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