"RAIDS ONLINE... ... ... LINK START!"
Upon launching the game, during the minute-long loading sequence, a breathtaking—yet haunting—view of a dark gray world appears.
A lone figure stands at the edge of the Moon, gazing down at what remains of Earth. The once-vibrant planet has become a desolate ruin, a grim reminder of what was lost. That stunning panorama is not a marvel to behold, but a stark demonstration of Earth's destined fate.
What was once a world teeming with life has fallen into decay, populated only by crumbling ruins and monstrous beings that consume anything still living. The waters that once gave Earth its blue hue have turned gray, and the lush green lands have darkened to black.
It is a minute of despair—yet in that final second, a surge of resolve arises in the hearts of all who witness this vision: a fierce desire to reclaim what was lost, and to bring life back to the world they once knew.
Or at least, that's what every player feels at the beginning of the game.
---
"Are you sure it was okay for me to receive that expensive gaming console?"
"Jeez… It's not the 21st century anymore. Nobody says 'gaming console' these days. At least call it 'VR Gear' or 'virtual reality gear.'"
"It's fine for me to use that term—I'm not a hardcore gamer like you."
"Ugh… The correct term is 'professional gamer,' not 'hardcore'! Don't lump us in with something that sounds perverted."
"Pfft… Only a pervert would take it that way… Hahaha."
Before logging into RAIDS ONLINE, Luel and his younger brother, Nedd—who is five years younger—returned to their family house in the countryside.
To recover from poor health brought on by anxiety and depression after years of work-related stress, Luel decided to leave the bustling capital and retreat to the countryside.
After spending a few days cleaning the house and reconnecting with neighbors, acquaintances, and relatives, it was time for Nedd to return to the capital. With their parents retired and traveling abroad, and their eldest brother living in the capital, Luel would now be living alone.
Living alone had its pros and cons—especially for someone recovering from anxiety and depression. But this time, Luel's family respected his decision. After all, it was the first choice he had made for himself in two years of medical treatment.
"Just don't hole up inside your room or the house. Make sure to spend time outside."
"I know."
"I'm leaving the car in the garage. You should take it out for a drive sometimes."
"Didn't I say I'm never driving again?"
"And most importantly, try using the VR Gear. Eldest brother paid for it, after all."
"I said I will... You need to leave now or you'll miss the last bus."
"Jeez… You make it sound like you're living at the ends of the earth."
"Just go already. And don't forget to message me when you get home."
"I will… And one more thing. Take your time and recover properly. We'll be waiting for you, no matter how long it takes."
"Mhm."
With those parting words, Luel watched his brother wave goodbye—like the setting sun slipping beyond the horizon, disappearing down the road that led back to the capital.
---
Returning inside, Luel suddenly felt how big and empty the house had become. The loneliness began to creep in, and with it, the weight of anxiety and depression slowly engulfed him.
His pulse quickened. His heart pounded. The rustling of leaves outside seemed deafening, like truck horns blaring. Then, phantom voices—like distant screams—began to echo in his mind.
Luel panicked. He rushed to the kitchen, filled a glass with water, and took his medication, which he always kept in his pocket. But the medicine didn't work right away. So he bent over the sink, letting the cold tap water cascade over his head.
---
Several minutes passed before the anxiety finally began to subside.
"FAQ… What the heck is happening to me..."
Luel slumped down onto the kitchen floor, leaning against the wall. Soaking wet, both head and clothes, he focused on steadying his breathing.
And then he made up his mind.
"Fine... I'll eat dinner and start playing RAIDS ONLINE."