1.0 - I am a Strange Loop

Timeline Alpha

Japan

Tokyo

2000.01.01

00:00:01 Japan Standard Time

While the fireworks outside signaled the beginning of a new millennium, the fireworks within signaled the end of one Kurono Oda. Or so it would have come to pass, if not a separate soul, sent by providence, entered into the now hollow husk.

A second wind, a birth anew.

Though unlike a newborn child, this cosmic traveler was not greeted by lavish lights, but dreadful darkness.

For the former inhabitant of this mortal vessel, while being submerged in the element most essential to life, had unleashed the power of lightning, once tamed by man, against his own brittle body.

Still in shock, the figure rose above the waters, grasping for air and striving to sort out the situation it found itself in.

“Did I die?”

“Is this heaven?”

The figure paused, inhaling more of the damp bathroom air.

“Huh…”

“...Doesn't smell like heaven…”

“...And it's dark…”

“...Must be the other place.”

“Guess they just got the whole 'fire' part totally backwards.”