Kai Sazaki didn't think his day would end with headlights.
It had started out like any other: late for school, dodging homework, and trying to ignore the fact that he had no real goals or plans. At seventeen, his life felt like a loop of greyscale scenes—home, school, part-time job, sleep. And now... this?
The screech of tires, the roar of an engine, and the brief flash of a delivery truck swerving out of control—that was all he remembered before the pain struck like lightning. And then... silence.
When he opened his eyes again, it wasn't a hospital ceiling above him. It was... stars. An endless cosmic ocean of swirling lights.
"W-What the hell?" he whispered, floating in a space without ground.
A voice answered.
"Kai Sazaki. You have died. But your soul clings to fate. You are chosen for Rebirth."
He blinked. "Wait... what? Rebirth? Is this—?"
"Yes. This is your isekai moment."
A faint glowing figure shimmered into view. It resembled a hooded being, cloaked in white fire. Its tone was serene, but its words were blunt.
"You died protecting a child. That act has marked you. As compensation, the realm of Aetherion shall be your second chance. You may choose one Blessing."
"Aetherion... a fantasy world?" Kai's thoughts raced. "Swords? Magic? Monsters?"
"Correct. One dominated by skill and spirit. Choose wisely. Your Blessing shall define you."
A menu appeared in the void:
Flameheart – Unleash fire magic with increasing power.
Sword Saint – Master every blade you wield.
Healer's Touch – Revive and restore allies.
Soulsteal – Steal one skill or trait from any defeated foe.
Kai's eyes stopped on the last one.
Soulsteal.
"Wait—so I can steal a skill? Just one? Or...?"
"Every foe you defeat, their strongest trait becomes yours."
A grin curled on Kai's lips. That was it. That was the one. Infinite growth. Infinite learning.
"I'll take Soulsteal."
"So it shall be. Your journey begins now."
The stars exploded around him.