1 Chapter 1: I Refuse!

'Raining?' I thought as I looked outside the 3D printer store.

I had just stopped in to get some more filament, and some resin since I was running low, but I hadn't checked the weather.

"Nasty looking weather out there. You should just wait it out here," Greg said from behind the till and I turned around.

"Probably for the best," I said, turning around lazily.

The store was filled with the sweet scent of freshly printed plastic. Rows of 3D printers lined the shelves, each one humming softly as it worked on creating intricate designs layer by layer. The low hum was a comforting background noise, a symphony of creation that surrounded me every time I stepped into the store.

Greg, the owner of the shop, was a middle-aged man with a scruffy beard and a twinkle in his eye. He had a knack for striking up conversations with customers, and I often found myself engaged in discussions about the latest advancements in 3D printing technology whenever I stopped by.

As I glanced out of the storefront, I noticed the raindrops dancing on the pavement, creating a shimmering reflection of the neon signs that adorned the street. The weather had taken an unexpected turn, and I was suddenly faced with the decision of whether to brave the rain or wait it out in the cozy confines of the 3D printer store.

I turned my attention back to Greg, who was now wiping his hands on a rag. "So, what brings you in today? Working on a special project?" he asked, his eyes twinkling with curiosity.

I nodded, reaching into my bag to pull out the empty spool of filament. "Just need to restock. I've got a few commissions lined up, and I can't afford to run out of supplies."

Greg chuckled. "Ah, the life of a 3D printing enthusiast. Always in demand. You're like a magician, turning spools of plastic into wonders."

I smiled, appreciating the camaraderie. Greg knew the ins and outs of the 3D printing community, and his store was only five blocks from my apartment.

"It pays the bills, but it is about the art I get to keep, rather than sell that is the best!" I smiled, thinking about my shelves full of waifu's.

I loved to create models of my favorite female anime characters. Sue me, I was a simp for 2D. But! Printing allows me to somewhat bring them to life!

I have girls from all stages of my learning! The beginning ones were bad, but with time, and much, much, much frustration, I started to create works of art. Now my two bedroom apartment was filled with my model!

Ah! What a great single otaku shut-in life!

"You sure do get fired up about your passion, Leon!" Greg laughed, and I wince, not realizing how animated I had become. I shrugged off my embarrassment, appreciating Greg's understanding of my enthusiasm.

"Well, when you're surrounded by a community of creators and artists, it's hard not to get fired up," I replied with a grin. "And speaking of passion, I refuse to let a little rain dampen my spirits. I've got deadlines to meet, and my printer won't wait for the weather to clear up."

Greg raised an eyebrow, a smirk forming on his face. "Sounds like determination. But trust me, the rain's not going anywhere. You might as well enjoy the company and wait it out."

I glanced outside again, contemplating the decision. The raindrops continued their dance, creating a serene backdrop to the bustling city beyond.

"I appreciate the offer, Greg, but I'll take my chances with the rain. I refuse to let a few drops slow me down."

With that, I grabbed the newly purchased filament and resin, slinging my bag over my shoulder. Greg chuckled, shaking his head.

"Alright, Leon, you're a brave one. Just don't blame me if you end up soaking wet."

I waved him off with a confident smile, stepping out into the rain-soaked streets. The cold droplets pelted down on me, but I welcomed the sensation. There was a certain thrill in defying the elements, a sense of rebellion against the mundane.

Then I was hit by a lightning bolt and died. The end.

"Hello? Excuse me? Are you awake yet?"

It was supposed to be the end, but when I opened my eyes, there was an old glowing man standing in front of me.

"Can you turn down your brights, grampa?" I asked, and the old man just blinked at me.

Then we stared at each other.

"This is kind of awkward, didn't I die?" I asked finally, and then the man nodded.

"Yes! And now I have summoned you to another world to save it!" He declared, and I lifted an eyebrow.

"No?"

"No?"

"Yeah, can I please go home?" I asked, and we stared at each other.

This guy looked pretty important, so if he could send me here, then he could send me back. My life was pretty good, and I know all about these kinds of stories. Save the kingdom and stuff, but this isn't a book. I also have a special order resin printer that is coming in three days. It's kind of important.

"...Are you saying that you are refusing to help my world?! Even if I give you special powers?!" The man demanded, seeming more imposing, but something told me he was bluffing.

"Yeah, unless that power is to be immortal. Then we have a deal," I said, and the man started to pull on his beard.

"I can't do that!" He gripped, and I nodded.

"Thought so, but you can send me back, right?" I asked, and then the man seemed to get angry.

"I can send you back! But because you refused to help my world, I will destroy your world in 4 days! I will make you submit to me before the fourth day!" the man declared, and I shrugged.

"Sure. One more question. If I do end up going, can I bring something with me as my special power? Will you give it an upgrade?" I asked, and the man paused.

"What... I guess?" He said, not really sure of himself, and then shrugged. "It has to be something you have, not just some random item!"

"Cool. I Refuse. Send me home," I said with a straight face and arms crossed.

"What?! Didn't you hear what I just said?! I am going to destroy your world if you don't save mine!"

I liked how my life is now, and this guy was a nut job. Still, if I could get my printer, and then have Grampa Bright Lite enchant it or something, my dreams might actually be able to come true!

"I REFUSE!"