u/NotSoSuperHero: "Hey u/frigganlazer, do you have a favorite color? Or is your life just various shades of evil?"

u/frigganlazer: "Ah, u/NotSoSuperHero, I see you're quite the comedian. But to answer your oh-so-original question, my favorite color is actually rainbow. Yes, that's right, even us evil masterminds enjoy a splash of color in our lives. Shocking, I know."

u/CuriousCatastrophe: "u/frigganlazer, what's your favorite pastime when you're not plotting world domination?"

u/frigganlazer: "Well, u/CuriousCatastrophe, when I'm not busy holding the world hostage with my space laser, I enjoy knitting. Nothing quite like creating a cozy pair of socks to warm my cold, villainous heart."

u/UnderwhelmedUnderdog: "If you could have any superpower, u/frigganlazer, what would it be and why?"

u/frigganlazer: "Oh, u/UnderwhelmedUnderdog, such a thought-provoking question! As if having a space laser capable of obliterating your precious Earth isn't enough. But if I must indulge your curiosity, I'd choose the power to make everyone's Wi-Fi go out at random times. You know, just to keep things interesting."

u/SpaceLaserEnthusiast: "u/frigganlazer, any advice for aspiring super villains out there?"

u/frigganlazer: "Dearest u/SpaceLaserEnthusiast, my advice for budding evildoers would be to remember that even the most diabolical plans can be foiled by the most mundane of obstacles. So, always remember to double-check your evil lair's Wi-Fi password and, of course, invest in a solid backup generator. Best of luck!"

u/NotSoSuperHero: "Hey u/frigganlazer, do you have a favorite color? Or is your life just various shades of evil?"

u/frigganlazer: "Ah, u/NotSoSuperHero, I see you're quite the comedian. But to answer your oh-so-original question, my favorite color is actually rainbow. Yes, that's right, even us evil masterminds enjoy a splash of color in our lives. Shocking, I know."

u/CuriousCatastrophe: "u/frigganlazer, what's your favorite pastime when you're not plotting world domination?"

u/frigganlazer: "Well, u/CuriousCatastrophe, when I'm not busy holding the world hostage with my space laser, I enjoy knitting. Nothing quite like creating a cozy pair of socks to warm my cold, villainous heart."

u/UnderwhelmedUnderdog: "If you could have any superpower, u/frigganlazer, what would it be and why?"

u/frigganlazer: "Oh, u/UnderwhelmedUnderdog, such a thought-provoking question! As if having a space laser capable of obliterating your precious Earth isn't enough. But if I must indulge your curiosity, I'd choose the power to make everyone's Wi-Fi go out at random times. You know, just to keep things interesting."

u/SpaceLaserEnthusiast: "u/frigganlazer, any advice for aspiring super villains out there?"

u/frigganlazer: "Dearest u/SpaceLaserEnthusiast, my advice for budding evildoers would be to remember that even the most diabolical plans can be foiled by the most mundane of obstacles. So, always remember to double-check your evil lair's Wi-Fi password and, of course, invest in a solid backup generator. Best of luck!"

In the days following Gareth's departure, I found myself at a crossroads. Though I had become a formidable warrior, I was unsure of my purpose. As I wandered the realm, I realized that perhaps I could share the gifts I had been given, helping others like me to become better versions of themselves.

I returned to the ancient crypt where I had once served as a feeble skeleton archer. My fellow undead stared at me in disbelief, hardly recognizing the skilled warrior I had become. I spoke to them, my voice filled with conviction, and told them of my journey and the lessons I had learned.

One by one, they agreed to let me teach them. Under my guidance, the undead honed their skills and crafted new, powerful equipment. As they grew stronger, I saw the same spark of potential in them that Gareth had seen in me. Together, we formed an unstoppable force, an army of undead warriors, each a formidable opponent in their own right.

Word of our new-found strength spread far and wide, reaching the ears of Gareth himself. He returned, prepared to face this mysterious undead army, his sword at the ready. As he approached our ranks, he saw me standing at the forefront, and his eyes widened in surprise.

"Gareth, my friend," I called out, "we owe our transformation to you. You showed me the path to redemption and strength, and now I've shared your teachings with my brethren."

The undead warriors behind me kneeled, an act of fealty to the hero who had indirectly changed their fates. Gareth, moved by our display, sheathed his sword and addressed us.

"An army like this, born of hope and second chances, could be a powerful force for good in this realm. Will you join me and help bring peace to the land?"

We bowed our heads, pledging our loyalty to the hero who had not only saved my life but had also shown us a new path.

Together, Gareth and our undead army marched forward, united in our quest for justice and redemption. We became a symbol of hope and change, proving that even those once considered lost could find their way in the light.

I was the laughingstock of the undead army, a skeleton archer so woefully inept that even my fellow skeletal minions mocked me. My mind was slow, my aim abysmal, and my armor barely held together. The bow I clutched in my bony fingers was cracked and worn, and my arrows were little more than sharpened sticks.

One fateful day, as I stood guard in the ancient crypt, the hero of the story burst into our lair. I dutifully raised my bow, attempting to shoot him as he slashed his way through the undead horde. As he drew nearer, I readied another arrow, certain he would cut me down in an instant.

But then, my bow broke with a pitiful snap.

The hero, now only a few feet away, halted in his tracks. He stared at me for a moment before breaking into a chuckle. To my amazement, he sheathed his sword and extended a hand in friendship.

"Join me," he said, a warm smile on his face, "and I'll help you become a force to be reckoned with."

With nothing left to lose, I hesitantly accepted his offer. Together, we embarked on a journey that would forever change my existence.

The hero, whose name was Gareth, became my mentor and friend. He taught me the art of archery, patiently instructing me on how to aim and shoot with precision. He crafted a new bow for me, sturdy and powerful, and fashioned a set of armor that fit me perfectly. Under his guidance, I grew stronger and faster, my accuracy improving with each passing day.

We traveled together, fighting side by side against the forces of darkness. As my skills sharpened, I began to earn the respect of those we encountered, no longer a pitiful skeleton archer but a true warrior.

One day, as we stood atop a hill overlooking a peaceful valley, Gareth turned to me, his eyes filled with pride.

"My friend, you have become a force to be reckoned with. It's time for me to continue my journey alone, but I know you'll continue to do great things."

With a final embrace, Gareth left me, his mission calling him to new adventures. I stood there, gazing at the horizon, grateful for the friendship and guidance he had given me.

Now, I was no longer the feeble skeleton archer I once was. I was a skilled warrior, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. And though I would miss Gareth dearly, I knew that the lessons he had taught me would remain with me forever, guiding me on my path towards greatness.

Mia walks back home, hoping to enjoy some peace & quite, but is instead greeted by NuKo, a hovering humanoid like snapping turtle. “Where in the hell have you been?! You arrived 5 minutes later than usual!” “Probably was because I petted a cat on my way back.” A small boy pops up from a bush “A cat?! Those are the spawn of ChazOp!” “What have you been telling him?” “You mean educate?” Mia pushes away NuKo & walks over to the kitchen. An Axolotl flats by & stares at Mia. “Did you seriously have to give Apple your gOdLY powers?” “Yes! He’s a worshiper of mine, how could I not bestow powers?” “While it is nice of you, it’s a bit annoying having him constantly hover around me for food.” “Tis but a small inconvenience.” Mia throws Apple a worm & he catches it. “I know you’re a forgotten god an all, but do you seriously have to bug me so much after I put one piece of candy in your shrine?” “It is my duty! I am the god of Order & Protection! It is my duty to protect my high priestess & bestow my followers powers to become guardians!” “All because a piece of candy.” “Candy was merely the activator, I knew you were worthy the first moment I saw you!” “Whatever.” Mia goes up to her room munching down on a sandwich while doing homework.

NuKo, phases through her floor. “What the fuck?!” “You seem tired.” “No shit.” Mia tries to ignore NuKo. “You really need to get out of this house.” “What are you? My parents?” “No, but you could try having fun. Living a life without fun is not healthy.” “Oh really now.” “Yes, just look at your brother.” Mia looks out the window to see her brother chasing Apple. “Too many young ones grow up to forget what it was like to be a child, to be free. And look at you now, shackled to your room doing this dreadful homework!” “Well i can’t just put it off.” “Well didn’t you already finish all the homework you needed to do for this week.” “This is next week’s homework.” NuKo gives his judgment stare. “…fine! I see the problem!” Mia puts away the homework. “What should I do almighty NuKo?” “Great question!” NuKo floats to Mia’s window & points outside. Mia looks out the window & sees some fish swimming in the sky. “What the?” “I made them. Here’s a gun.” NuKo throws a pistol over to Mia. “Bro what the hell?! Where did you get this?!” “Relax! I simply made the instrument myself, it won’t harm anyone. Just shoot the fish.” “Wha?” “SHOOT.” Mia jumps & shoots a fish, it explodes into confetti. “Oh, that’s cool.” “Right?” Mia begins shooting some more. She shoots at plenty of the fish, smiling too. “See, fun is fun.” “Eh, your not wrong.” NuKo sits down at the edge of Mia’s window, watching her enjoy herself. “Is there any other games you got?” “I could gift you the ability of invisibility or flight.” “Now we’re talking!” NuKo grins.

Impact

I have a big job opportunity.

At the start of my day, that was what I was worried about. Now things are different.

10:05 AM

It's raining today. I hop on the train, knowing where I start and where I will end up. The train is lined with two rows of seats on both sides next to small windows. I take my seat. It's quiet, no one is talking. I wait. We come upon entering a tunnel.

10:36 AM

This has to be the weirdest train ride.

We've been in this tunnel for 30 minutes, now. I see some worried passengers around me quietly discussing, a baby is crying. I look around. Everybody on the train is dressed formally and old-schooled, no one has their phones out. One lady is wearing a sky blue dress ending at the bottom half of her nees, that is topped off with tall, white stiletto heels. She's holding a small baby in a yellow bonnet. Whats going on?

10:48 AM

I get up from my seat and head towards the locomotive driver. He's staring in to the abyss of the black tunnel.

"Excuse me, sir? We have been in this tunnel for over 40 minutes now."

"A lot longer than that, you' new here or something?" He said.

I looked at him again, confused.

"I never thought that It would all end in such a dark place." He said.

"Is the train going to stop in this tunnel?" I asked, feeling that the driver was being a little cryptic.

"The train adds to its collection of misfortunate newcomers. It will stop al'right. It will. Then starts again. Than stops, if only I could've been a bit quicker." The driver continued. "Sir, what year is it?"

"2023, why?"

"Ah. It sure has been awhile. The incident happened in 1964." He said.

"196-" I was about to say, before he cut me off.

"Hush! Don't be disrespectful. Its about to happen again."

The trains' three lights reflected against something, lighting it. An exit maybe? It was almost hypnotising, peaceful even.

Wait. No. That's not an exit.

Its a...Wall. No, NO NO!

"STOP THE TRAIN!"

​

Impact.

Adriel and I worked tirelessly, navigating the treacherous depths of Earth 7. We faced countless challenges, but our determination to bring hope and redemption to the lost souls never wavered. Together, we were a force of light amidst the encroaching darkness.

One day, we encountered a particularly dangerous situation. A group of malicious souls, enraged by our efforts to change the hearts of the sinners, plotted to stop us at any cost. Adriel and I, unbeknownst to the impending peril, walked straight into their trap.

Surrounded and outnumbered, we fought valiantly, defending ourselves and those we had come to help. Adriel, with their indomitable spirit, managed to hold the malevolent souls at bay. However, in the heat of the battle, one of the attackers struck a fatal blow, piercing Adriel's heart.

I watched, heartbroken, as the light in Adriel's eyes flickered and died. Their sacrifice had saved many, but I was left to continue our mission alone. Grief-stricken and consumed by a profound sense of loss, I began to lose my way.

Without Adriel's unwavering conviction, the darkness of Earth 7 began to seep into my soul. I found myself growing bitter and resentful, and, in time, I teetered on the brink of committing the very sins I had once sought to eradicate.

One fateful day, as I stood over a trembling soul, consumed by rage and despair, I prepared to take a life. It was in that very moment, the darkest hour of my existence, that I felt a gentle hand on my shoulder.

I turned to see Adriel, their face serene and radiant, standing beside me. They had returned, not as a mortal, but as an angel, just as I once was. Adriel had ascended to Earth 1, and now, they had been sent back to guide me away from the abyss I was about to plunge into.

"Remember our purpose," Adriel whispered softly, their voice soothing the turmoil within me. "We are here to bring hope and redemption, not to perpetuate the cycle of darkness."

Tears filled my eyes as I lowered my hand, releasing the terrified soul. Adriel's presence was the lifeline I so desperately needed, a beacon of light to guide me back from the edge of despair.

Together once more, Adriel and I resumed our mission to help the lost souls of Earth 7. We knew the path ahead would be arduous and fraught with danger, but with renewed faith and the strength of our bond, we would continue to shine our light into the darkest corners of the universe.

For millennia, I have served the divine order as an angelic judge, tasked with the sacred duty of redistributing the souls among the Seven Earths. Earth 1, the celestial realm of the virtuous, was reserved for the most holy and righteous. Earth 7, the final and lowest plane, housed the worst of the sinners.

Over the course of six months, I diligently worked to assess the souls on Earth 7, granting upgraded passports to those who had genuinely repented and sought redemption. Many petitioned for the chance to ascend to Earth 6, or even higher, to escape the darkness that engulfed their world.

And then I met Adriel, a paragon of virtue who stood out like a beacon of light amidst the shadows. As I examined their life, I was astounded by their unwavering commitment to kindness and compassion, even in the face of overwhelming darkness. Adriel was a rarity, a soul deserving of Earth 1.

Yet, when I offered Adriel passage to the highest plane, they refused.

"I wish to remain here on Earth 7," Adriel said, "to guide others towards the light and help them find the path to redemption."

I tried to convince Adriel otherwise, reminding them of the serenity and splendor that awaited them on Earth 1. However, Adriel's resolve remained unshaken, and their words slowly began to resonate within me.

"By staying here," Adriel continued, "we can bring hope to those who have lost their way. We can show them that redemption is possible, and help them ascend to higher Earths."

Adriel's selfless dedication to the forsaken souls of Earth 7 struck a chord within me. For the first time in my existence, I questioned the divine order, the very essence of my being. The thought of relinquishing my wings to join Adriel in their quest to uplift the sinners of Earth 7 took root in my heart.

After a long and arduous contemplation, I made a decision that would alter the course of my eternal existence. I chose to give up my wings and remain on Earth 7 with Adriel.

Together, we embarked on a journey to guide the lost souls towards redemption, to teach them the virtues of compassion and forgiveness, and to prove that even in the darkest corners of the universe, hope could still prevail.

And you are welcome, my friend! XD

Yes! this is exactly what I had envisioned for this prompt. great story I love how the character thinks. I'd love to read more of something like this.

As the first of us burns and vanishes, the rest of us look in awe. Suddenly one of us steps forward.

"Ha! Look at this loser"

He walks through the doorway. And starts burning and screaming. The second of us have fallen, then another walks up.

"Ha! Look at that loser"

And the third one walks through and begins to burn. We watch in awe of the third one to fall. Then a 4th has come up

"Hehe, look at this loser"

As he walks out, he falls to the ground and burns into crisp, then a 5th one steps up.

"Wow, what a loser"

The 5th one steps out and ends up on the ground, just like the others.

Then a different me comes up behind me and whispers in my ear.

"You know, only a loser would burn like that. Are you a loser?"

And then I step up saying "Ha, look at that loser"

In the grand halls of the Arcanium, my fellow mages cast intricate spells, their luxurious velvet robes fluttering with every gesture. Meanwhile, I quietly practiced my modest magic in the corner, clad in a humble cotton robe.

"Lucius!" bellowed Archmage Branthor. "Redwater needs our help. Their harvest has been destroyed by a sudden frost, and their people are starving."

Lucius, a mage known for his extravagant spells and rituals, stepped forward. "I'll need several weeks to gather the necessary materials and perform the ritual, but I can save their crops."

I hesitated, knowing that Redwater couldn't wait that long. But instead of voicing my concerns, I decided to act on my own. I packed my meager belongings and set off for Redwater, determined to help them in their time of need.

Upon arrival, I gathered the necessary ingredients: salt, a bit of twine, and a single copper coin. With a short incantation, I sprinkled the salt over the frostbitten crops, wrapped the twine around the coin, and uttered the final words of the spell.

A warm breeze blew through the fields, melting the frost and reviving the withered crops. The villagers rejoiced, gratitude shining in their eyes. I simply asked them to keep my identity a secret, not wishing for recognition.

A week later, Lucius arrived in Redwater, laden with exotic ingredients and scrolls detailing complex rituals. The villagers exchanged amused glances, then directed him to their flourishing fields.

Lucius stared at the vibrant crops in disbelief. "But how? My ritual wasn't even complete!"

The village elder, a twinkle in his eye, explained that their crops had been saved by a mysterious benefactor, who had used a simple, yet powerful spell. Lucius, his face red with embarrassment, sputtered an apology before departing, his reputation bruised but his ego intact.

As word of Redwater's miraculous recovery spread through the Arcanium, the mages wondered who the mysterious hero could be. I kept my secret, a smile playing on my lips. I was the budget mage, and my swift, effective magic had saved a village, proving that grandeur and extravagance weren't always necessary to make a difference.

Where once great kingdoms stood there was left only ruin. Consumed by their greed and lust for power they had one and all been destroyed in the war. Gone were the nobility and the great houses. Gone were the castes. Whoever had survived of the great families were scattered to the winds and the ends of the earth. All men had been made equal- not a single name was greater than any other.

​

And it was in the shadow of the wastes that an idea took root within my mind. What if it were MY family, MY name that were cherished and revered? If I could say I had even an ounce of noble blood flowing through my veins, I could lay claim to the castle and become its steward. And if no one came to challenge me it would eventually become mine. There were few who could challange me, and possibly even fewer that cared.

And so, my kingdom began with a single lie. Or rather, a truth of my own creation. From that moment forward, I was of noble blood. I forsook my family and the name given to me by my father. I forsook my inheritance. And most of all, I forsook my heritage- the life of a peasant.

​

But a single castle does not a kingdom make. I had work ahead of me if I were to become a king. I needed land and servants. I needed an army of my own. Fortunately, my second lie would take care of that...

It's not true science unless you're making the laws of nature sit up and beg.

Probably burns him up thinking about all those lost spoils!

I didn't know what the Kanamara Matsuri was until I read it just now. Now my bucket list has: eat a penis lollipop at the Penis Festival in Japan.

Looks like it burns through wallets too! Though half back, that's generosity right there.

That was dead on and really well written.

Ooh take your time!!

Woohoooo

A simple, but effective extension of the original prompt ! For once, no major problem put in perspective here, simply a conception of how each of these Earths would be, and putting in evidence the good that this system would do, while also reflecting that it was not just God’s act that magically fixed everything, but also the human’s willingness to change. Not a story in itself, but a very pleasant summary, might be my favorite so far.

Trudi Canavan's Age of the Five really scratched that itch for me.

“The Man who healed Hell”. It’s amusing and touching really, like a more optimistic take on u/sadnesslaughs story, where a man sacrifices himself to help sinners, maybe even get them out of here. I see a lot of stories expending on the idea of trying to defy God’s will, and turn the tables around. It’s quite heartwarming, the idea that even when better worlds are open for them, people would rather try to be with the ones they love, and save the people that suffer below.

Thank you.

“Wanna join my party?” “…why are you asking me?” “You saved my ass from that necromancer, you even helped me kill him!” “Well that’s cause he was being an ass to my brothers. Simple as that.” “And that’s why I need you in my party! Most wouldn’t even bother to rebel against their lord! Especially if your a skeleton controlled by a necromancer.” “…I guess you have a point there.” “Plus we need an archer, which you are good at being.” “I did land some clean shots on Dan.” “Who?” “Necromancer. Anyways, I’ll join your party if you think I’m qualified.” “Awesome!” “On one condition! If we ever come across another necromancer, we kill him & not her servants, they’re usually being controlled against their will, would be shitty if we killed them when none of their actions were decided by them.” “Fair enough, I can do that.” “Awesome.”