The three judges of Areobagus

Jack and Natalie were a couple excitedly headed for a trip to Orlando. They had been planning this for months and were in high spirits. However, while on their way, an unexpected car accident occurred. Michael, who was driving, didn't notice another car, leading to a collision. This accident resulted in serious injuries. Natalie suffered severe fractures and bruises, but her injuries were manageable. On the other hand, Jack fell into a severe coma, with doctors stating that he was teetering between life and death. He was hooked up to medical devices that provided the necessary nutrients for his survival, and his condition was extremely critical.

In another dimension, Jack found himself in a mysterious place called Areobagus , initially unable to comprehend his surroundings. Then, three strange beings resembling judges appeared, with one being more powerful than the others. These judges presented Jack with three difficult tests to determine whether he would live or return to life for the sake of his beloved.

The first test, given by the first judge, involved isolating Jack in a secluded place and then showing him all the people who had caused him psychological harm in his life. First, he saw his father, who was a heavy drinker and physically abusive to his mother. His father's actions had filled him with deep resentment. The first judge also showed Jack his former girlfriend, Diana, who had manipulated him throughout their relationship and never truly loved him. She had used him and left him after getting what she wanted, despite being his close friend.

Then, there was Michael, a student who had constantly bullied Jack in high school, physically assaulting him in front of their peers. Jack was given the opportunity for revenge, and the judge allowed him to relive the traumatic events he had experienced at Michael's hands during those seven days. In the end, after much inner turmoil, Jack made a difficult decision: to forgive those who had wronged him. This was how he passed the first judge's test.

Meanwhile, Natalie was growing increasingly worried about Jack, as nine days passed without any sign of improvement.

The second judge's test was similar to the first but involved Jack witnessing the events of his life and assessing whether he had been a good person. As the events unfolded before him, he could feel what others had felt towards his actions. He initially felt confident, believing he was a kind and considerate person who helped his mother, assisted the less fortunate, and loved others. However, as the test continued, he realized he was not perfect. He recalled the time he had tried to poison his father in revenge, but his father had not eaten the food. His mother, unaware of his intentions, had given the poisoned meal to a poor man who suffered greatly as a result. He also remembered how he had rejected a disfigured girl and refused to play with her due to her appearance. As the negative memories resurfaced, Jack began to doubt himself and his character.

After two days of this introspective test, the judge rendered his judgment. Jack had to confront the worst aspects of his past behavior and see if he could overcome them with positive choices. His self-confidence wavered, but in the end, he passed this test as well.

Natalie continued to worry about Jack, as there was still no sign of improvement.

The third and final judge presented a unique challenge. Jack remained in the same place, and the judge offered him a choice. He could return to life, become incredibly wealthy, and achieve great success in his career but would lose Natalie's love, or he could return to life with Natalie and forgo the immense wealth and success.

Initially, Jack chose love, but he was tempted by thoughts of wealth and success. However, he ultimately decided to prioritize his love for Natalie over material riches. He informed the judge of his choice, and the judge granted him a second chance at life.

With this decision, Jack's condition began to improve significantly, and he eventually fully recovered. He chose to keep the experiences of the otherworldly tests to himself, as he believed no one would believe his extraordinary journey. He only shared the story with Natalie, who, though finding it strange, believed in his love and commitment to her.