The cold wind cut through the quiet streets of Tokyo as Ryoken walked home from his late-night shift at Isiko-Moriyo, the graphic design company he worked tirelessly for. His heart was heavy, burdened with the weight of his ailing mother and younger sister waiting at home. His father, taken too soon in a tragic accident, had left behind more than just memories — a void Ryoken struggled to fill.
His footsteps echoed in the deserted alleyway, mind clouded by the harsh words of his seniors who refused to recognize his efforts. The sting of their disdain was sharp, but Ryoken remained silent, the turmoil hidden behind his calm facade.
Suddenly, a flash of white darted across the street — a cat, its fur shining in the dim light. Without thinking, Ryoken dashed forward, heart pounding as a truck hurtled toward the helpless creature. Time slowed. Instinct took over.
He leapt.
Pain exploded across his body as the truck struck, darkness swallowing his vision.
A soft glow surrounded him, neither hot nor cold, but a comforting embrace. His soul drifted in a vast space between worlds — the Flick of Life.
Before him stood a figure bathed in radiant light — neither man nor woman, but something ancient and powerful.
"I am Miq," the voice echoed, gentle yet commanding. "You are... the good one."
Ryoken blinked, a mixture of confusion and awe filling him.
"You will be given a second chance," Miq continued, "to walk a path where light conquers darkness. But this world will not be easy."
A pulse of warmth filled Ryoken's being. He felt strength surging through him — limitless, boundless.
"Prepare, Ryoken. Your rebirth awaits."
A burst of light.
And then — he was awake, breathing in the crisp air of a strange land.
The world had changed.