Chapter 1 - The End of a Meaningless Life

The brightness of the monitor is the only light in my dark room. The game in front of me, i have played it countless times, yet it is the only thing that still occupies my mind.

In the next moment, a large "Game Over" appears on the screen.

I sigh. "Lost again"

I lean back, letting my head fall back. The ceiling is nothing but darkness. Just like my life. 28 years old, and nothing accomplished. No friends, no prospects. Only this virtual world where, for a brief moment, I can feel like someone.

My phone vibrates. A message. An old school friend.

"Hey Kiyo, wanna hang out again sometime?" I look at the name. It has been years since we last spoke. What should I reply? "No, I'd rather stay here alone and waste my life."?

I swipe the message away.

Outside, rain pounds against the window. The clock shows 9:26 PM. I have been gaming all day. Again.

"I need some fresh air."

I grab my coat and steps outside. Cold rain hits my face. I pull the hood deep over my head, walking with my head down through the empty streets. No destination. No plan. Just walking.

Then, a scream.

I stop. A dark alley. Shadows move. A woman. Three men.

"None of my business" I think. And yet, my legs move.

"Hey!" The men turnaround. One grins. A bulky guy with a shaved head.

"What do you want, kid?"

I swallow. My hands are shaking. But now, there is no turning back.

"Leave her alone."

The guy laughs. "And if not?"

I clench my fists. "Then... Then..." The punch hits me before I can finish my sentence. Pain explodes in my face. I stagger. The second blow slams into my ribs. "Go die, idiot!"

A hard shove to the chest. My body is thrown back. The world spins.

I fall. My feet leave the ground.

Headlights. A loud honk.

A truck is speeding toward me.

"Shit." One last thought. Then, darkness.