Chapter 1

There wasn't much movement or change in the teenager's state of health. Whatever had caused such serious wounds to his body, must have taken effect again, evident that his body began bleeding a few days after his discovery. As the days went on, his senses began to return. Finally, he realized that whatever had happened to him, he'd pulled through.

When the sound of footsteps became faint and non-existent, his eyes slowly opened. A huge pain was in his head, but was glad he was alive, and still holding onto the necklace. It was regrettable, that he had to abandon one of his swords, but he prized the necklace more than anything else. This was given to him by...his thoughts were interrupted when someone walked into the room, surprised that he was awake, and raced out.

"Hey...What did I do?" he asked.

Okay...everything seemed odd. These surroundings proved to be unfamiliar to him. Much of the worlds he had been to were slightly more advanced. A huge furnace seemed to radiate heat from behind him, and his bed seemed somewhat uncomfortable. The worst thing was, he'd be stranded on here for quite some time...granted, he COULD build a new ship, but that would take time...and the tools required were back at the HQ on Radiance.

"So, you're awake. Good to hear."

The boy turned his head. Near the door was the same man that had helped him a while ago. He had no idea how long he was out. Days, weeks, could even be months for all he knew. At least he was alive. Looking down at his body, much of his upper body was wrapped in blood-stained bandages, while his arm had a small mark on it. Teeth marks? Hard to tell. His thoughts were interrupted when he looked at the tough looking man. Looked like he had something to say.

"Hold up, kid. You're just getting up from a bad headache and some serious wounds. You were out for about an entire week. Do ya even know what your name is?"

The teenager lifted his cap and scratched his head. No lumps or bruises...and apart from the wounds on his body, much of his physical state seemed fine. But his name...A spark ignited within his mind, making him realize he was asked a question. The stranger, although rugged-looking, seemed to have a kind heart. There wasn't really much harm trying to get some information from some people.

"It's Joshua...just...Joshua. I was supposed to be heading for Radiance in my ship...but something went wrong. I..."

The man was shaking his head, confused. These words mustn't have had any positive impact. As if they didn't exist in this world. Perhaps...they were somewhat behind in technology? If that was the case, then he'd have to try and keep a low profile...AND his powers...if they saw him use them...people would begin to accuse him of bringing about the end of their world or something.

"So...Joshua, it looks like you've got your memory, but seem slightly daft...my name is Bron, by the way. This 'Radiance..', ya speak of...Is it some of unknown port? I've never heard of such a place. And you must have been quite lucky to survive your ship sinking. We saw some star falling through the sky. It crashed into a boat, causing all of the crew to be killed...except you, it seems." Bron explained.

This information quickly struck Joshua like a blow to the stomach. His arrival caused a series of accidental deaths? Because of him? It wasn't making him feel much better. Perhaps it was best just to find the supplies he needed to build a new ship and leave...but where...and how would he make such a thing here? The technology might not even allow such a task.

"Odd thing too...That ship was carrying CraftKnights, coming for this year's tournament. Were you going to be competing in the tournament? You might find it a bit difficult without somewhere for you to craft yer weapons! But that sword...you might be able to fight a few battles before it breaks. But, with something like that, I think the rules wouldn't allow ya to use it. What's it made of?"

CraftKnights? Tournament? I better play along. Joshua thought to himself.

"...I guess...but I don't think my sword will be breaking anytime soon. Have a look yourself...And the sword...I can't exactly say." Joshua shrugged, passing him the sword.

While Bron was closely examining the sword, something was bothering him. Something small...but faint. A dark presence...perhaps it would be best to investigate it right away...but he hesitated. He was probably being paranoid and slightly insecure. Night had fallen, agreements had been made and Joshua was sitting downstairs, listening to his new 'Master' explain the rules of the tournament. It had started a few days ago, and many were already ahead.

"Despite the others on your ship, you should still be registered in the tournament. They may have taken you out of the list of competitors, but I'll discuss that with the CraftLords. But...yer haven't got yourself a Guardian Beast! How do yer expect to win if yer don't have one?!" Bron yelled.

Joshua flinched at his 'Master's' loud voice. There seemed to be so many complex things about this world...and if he remembered vaguely about some of the time he played the game, before he came to the Video Dimension, he'd need some Summonite. He wished he had managed to grab his back-pack before jumping out of the ship...it would've had some in it...but an idea popped into his head. Perhaps...

Reaching into his pocket, he was surprised to find a glittering stone. He couldn't remember how it got there, or if it was Summonite, but Bron spoke up.

"Yer have some? Guess yer'll have to see a summoner. It'll take a few days for him to get here, after I let him know, so you'll have to fend for yerself til then! Got it, Joshua?"

Joshua sighed. This wasn't going to be easy...

Meanwhile, however...

The Darkness...was growing restless. Something was stirring from the midst of the planet...reacting to Joshua's arrival. At first, his immense power should be able to stay hidden, before he'd be able to lure the boy to him. 'The Ultimate Gamer' wouldn't escape from his wrath. His revenge would finally come about after all these years of hiding...plotting.

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Now, we've finished Chapter 2! Yeah! Only...Ten? More chapters to go!

Joshua: Ooh! Who's going to be my Guardian Beast?! Is it Dinah?! gets hit with a hammer

superjwren329: No. Wrong game, buddy. Besides...next story...

Joshua: What?! You've already started...

superjwren329: Shut up...