Peace in Another World

An Unfamiliar Ceiling

You open your eyes to the sight of an unfamiliar carved ceiling. Soft morning light filters through the lace curtains, casting dappled shadows on the floor. The faint scent of flowers and toasted bread drifts through the air.

Pushing yourself up, you realize you are lying in a four-poster bed with crisp white sheets, dressed in soft pajamas. Memories of last night rush back—you were enveloped in a sudden light, and then you lost consciousness.

"You are awake."

A gentle voice comes from near the door. Turning your head, you see a woman in a classical maid outfit standing quietly at the entrance. Her short flaxen hair is perfectly neat, though her eyes seem somewhat unfocused.

Illness—you would later learn her name—bows slightly: "The Duke is waiting for you to have breakfast. Please allow me to help you change."

You nod somewhat blankly, your heartbeat gradually settling. It seems the "summoned to another world" trope has truly happened to you.

An Encounter in the Garden

After breakfast, Illness guides you to the courtyard of the Duke's manor. Various flowers dot the neatly trimmed shrubs, and a fountain reflects a rainbow in the sunlight.

As you admire the scenery, a crisp voice rings out from behind you.

"Found you!"

You turn around to see a girl who only reaches your chest. Her short, silver-white hair sways gently in the wind, and her brilliant golden eyes look at you with a smile. Grabbing your cuff with her small hand, she speaks with a spoiled familiarity:

"I'm Kuromueina, the Underworld King of this world... and also a candidate to be your lover!"

Before you can even react, she is already dragging you toward the depths of the garden, chattering endlessly about the surrounding plants and dessert shops. Her hand is small and warm, fingers intertwined with yours.

At that moment, with the perfect sunlight and the lingering scent of flowers, a strange premonition wells up in your heart—your life in this world probably won't be peaceful.

The Study's Light

In the evening, you are summoned to the Duke's study. A noble woman with long blonde hair sits behind a large desk, her emerald eyes filled with seriousness and a hint of subtle worry. She is none other than Duchess Albert—Lilia.

"Please, have a seat."

She gestures for you to sit in the chair opposite her, clasping her hands on the desk, her tone solemn:

"Regarding your summoning, I have uncovered some of the reasons. I am truly sorry for dragging you into this."

She pauses, then continues: "According to the divine oracle, a year from now you will face the trial of the 'Hero Festival'. At that time, you must defeat the Creator God to remain in this world permanently. I... both Kuromueina and I will help you."

Having said this, she turns her head slightly, a faint blush rising on her cheeks. As the twilight outside paints the sky red, you feel the weight of your responsibility, yet it feels warm.

Just then, the study door is flung open, and Kuromueina runs in, loudly announcing:

"Lilia! I'm taking him to the night market tonight! You're not allowed to stop me!"

Lilia presses her temples and sighs helplessly. But within that sigh, a trace of a smile is hidden.