Shiro Shinji was an ordinary 18-year-old, fresh out of high school, standing on the brink of adulthood. With graduation behind him, Shiro had his whole life ahead, brimming with dreams and ambitions. He lived in a comfortable home in a peaceful suburb, where his mother, a dedicated professional, managed a manufacturing facility for a prestigious company, ensuring their family lived a life of comfort and security. Her dedication to her work was unwavering, and her role was pivotal in the company. Despite her demanding career, she was a loving and attentive mother, always making time for Shiro.
Shiro's father, on the other hand, was the cornerstone of the household, proudly wearing the badge of a stay-at-home dad. He supported Shiro's academic pursuits and kept the house running smoothly. His part-time job offered him flexibility, allowing him to be present at every milestone in Shiro's life. Together, they were a tight-knit family, bound by love, mutual respect, and shared dreams.
As Shiro's 19th birthday approached, anticipation filled the air. It was to be a day of celebration, marking his transition into adulthood. Plans were made, and the family decided to mark the occasion with a simple yet heartfelt celebration—a road trip to a nearby scenic spot. It was meant to be an unforgettable day of joy and togetherness, a memory to cherish for years to come.
However, fate had a different plan.
On the day of the trip, the sun shone brightly in the sky, casting a warm, inviting glow over the world. Shiro sat in the back seat of the family car, excitement bubbling within him. His parents exchanged smiles, their joy reflected in the rearview mirror. They were a picture of happiness, unaware of the sinister shadow lurking just ahead.
As they drove along the winding roads, laughter filled the car. Shiro's father was recounting a lighthearted story from Shiro's childhood, and they were all caught up in the warmth of the moment. But in an instant, their world was shattered. A white bus, driven recklessly by a man under the influence, careened into their car with devastating force.
The impact was swift and brutal. Metal crunched and glass shattered, the world around Shiro descending into chaos. In that terrible moment, everything went black.
But death was not the end for Shiro Shinji.
As the darkness enveloped him, a strange sensation took hold. It was as if he were suspended in a vast, endless void, caught between two worlds. Time lost all meaning, and Shiro felt neither fear nor pain—only a profound sense of peace. And then, from the depths of the void, a voice echoed, clear and resonant.
"Ping: Origin System Activated. Welcome, host, to Fate."
The words hung in the air, a lifeline pulling Shiro from the abyss. Slowly, the darkness began to recede, replaced by a soft, ethereal light. A new reality unfolded before him, one filled with mystery and possibility.