The Light at The End of the Tunnel is the 1st chapter of The Beginning After The End Novel.
Summary[]
The chapter describes the experience of a person who initially dismisses the idea of a “light at the end of the tunnel” associated with near-death experiences. However, they find themselves in a similar situation, approaching a bright light, and pondering if they have died and how it might have happened. As they move towards the light, they realize they are being born again. The narrative shifts to the perspective of a newborn, observing the world for the first time, meeting their parents, and being named Art. The setting is unusual, resembling a ritual rather than a hospital birth, adding a mystical element to the rebirth experience.
The chapter continues the narrative from the perspective of the newborn, named Arthur, as he observes his parents and adjusts to his new life. His father is described as charismatic and handsome, with a strong jawline and striking blue eyes. Despite the odd expectation for a newborn to speak, his father’s joy is evident. Arthur’s mother is concerned when he doesn’t cry, but the doctor reassures her that it’s not uncommon.
Arthur struggles with the lack of control over his body, a common frustration for infants, and humorously comments on reflexes and bodily functions. He enjoys being breastfed, noting the superior taste and nutritional value of breast milk over formula.
The setting is revealed to be a mystical world, as his mother heals a scratch with a magical light, confirming they are not in a past era without electricity but rather a place where magic exists. His parents, Alice and Reynolds Leywin, are depicted as kind and loving. The town of Ashber is described as a primitive outpost with an unusual norm of people openly carrying weapons. Arthur’s mother tries to engage him in language learning, but he succumbs to sleep, overwhelmed by his new and challenging existence.
In this part of the chapter, Arthur, the newborn, is observing his father perform what appears to be a magical ritual. Despite high expectations, the result is modest—three boulders emerge and hit a tree. Arthur’s father, proud of his feat, misinterprets Arthur’s flailing as excitement. The father is also described as a formidable fighter, hinting at a world where martial prowess is highly valued.
Arthur reflects on the differences between his old world and this new one, noting the absence of technology and the presence of magic. He explains that in his previous life, disputes between countries were settled by duels or mock battles, not large-scale wars, and rulers had to be strong fighters.
The currency system is simple: 100 copper coins equal 1 silver, and 100 silver coins equal 1 gold. Arthur is learning to control his new body, but senses that his routine is about to change, suggesting upcoming challenges or adventures.
Characters in Order of Appearance[]
- Arthur Leywin
- Unnamed Doctor
- Alice Leywin
- Reynolds Leywin