Fate

Why bother?
If it doesn't lead to significant outcomes, then why put in so much effort when your story probably won't succeed? 
With such fierce competition, it seems like I've already lost from the start... 

That's what Shin thought.

Shin was really good at math, and if he had gone to university for a scientific field, he wouldn't have faced any issues. However, he had always wanted to be a writer. He especially loved reading stories.
Just recently, he had read the tale of a person who persistently continued their typical life without pausing or reflecting. But then, one day, this person randomly met a girl who offered a different perspective, leading him to pursue his passions. 
Yet, Shin wasn't only happy for the person in the story; he also felt a twinge of bitterness. If that chance encounter hadn't happened, his life would have remained the same, and he would never have risked taking a different path to chase his passions. Moreover, a risky path doesn't always lead to positive results.
There's a significant element of luck and randomness that partly determines the outcome of our actions. This means that even if someone gives their absolute best and excels in what they do, success isn't guaranteed. And it was precisely this uncertainty that made Shin uneasy. The fact that, no matter how hard we try, we still can't defy "fate."
However, everything would be much simpler if Shin believed that everything is predetermined, and if something didn't happen, it's because destiny willed it so. 
Consider the scenario where I meet someone who completely changes me, Shin was pondering. If I were to meet this person and embark on the path of being a successful writer, I wouldn't be entirely satisfied. Because when I look back, I see the shadow of the version of me who never had this fortuitous encounter and continued on their own path.
It's the existence of a possible reality where everything goes wrong that makes me sad. But then, if we keep thinking like this, there's also the possibility of a grim outcome, like getting hit by a truck (without resurrecting in another world as a toothpick). Does the fact that this reality exists mean I should be sad? Can't I feel sad for all the versions of me in every worse alternate reality... but then, how can you determine if one reality is worse than another?

As Shin was regaining his good mood after this stream of unconsciousness, he still carried a deep unease in his heart.

Ding Dong.

The doorbell of Shin's house rang. He was alone at home. His room was a bit messy, but the reality was that by his standards, the room was quite clean, as it was usually much messier. However, for the occasion, he had tidied it up. Did he care about appearances with this mysterious guest? Shin reluctantly got up from his chair, left his room, and went to open the door.As soon as he opened the door, he said:

"Hello, Aya. Welcome. Sorry for the mess."

"You're unusually polite. Thanks for inviting me."

Having said this, Aya glanced at the hallway and said, "Yet, I don't see any mess. Wow, you're quite modest!"

Confused if it was a compliment or a jest, Shin ignored her. They went up the stairs and entered his room. Right away, Aya said, "Ah, now I get it. I take back what I said."

"Thanks, Aya, I appreciate your honesty."


"Thanks, Shin, I appreciate your sarcasm."

"Anyway, regarding the chapter I need you to read--"

"Hold on! I've got some great news for you, Shin."

"Okay, but you shouldn't interrupt people; it's impolite--"

"I did some internet research and found out that they're organizing a contest where if the story you submit is good enough, an editor will publish it, and you'll have the chance to promote your book."

"Ah... and is there a specific theme for the story, or do I have creative freedom?"

"They want you to write a story about teenagers using mechas to defeat villains."

"Really?! If that's the case, I've already written a chapter--"

"Just kidding. It needs to be a romantic story between two high school students."

"Ah... I'm not very good with romantic stories..."

"Come on, Shin, you can do it! You have 10 days to write, as the deadline is at the end of this month."

"Mmh, doesn't sound like much time, but if I tap into my creative genius, then it is possible. Are there any requirements?"


"If I remember correctly, yes. You should write at least 25,000 words."


"It's impossible."


"Huh?! Are you giving up before even starting to write?!"


"I'll never make it."

"How can you be so sure?"

"It's not me saying it, it's math. Let's see... let's suppose I spend a total of 50 hours writing. Divided by 10 days, that's 5 hours a day."

"Shin, it's summer vacation right now. You have nothing to do all day. 5 hours a day is more than enough."

"First of all, who are you to tell me I'm not doing anything from morning to evening? Apart from the fact that it's true, you can't just assume things about me."


"You're so difficult... Anyway, in the end, math is on my side. And I'm terrible at math..."


"Okay. Aya, I'm a serious person, and I don't have time to waste, so I would appreciate it if you took this seriously as well."

"Huh?"

"And even though it's just a passion, I want to commit seriously this time."

"Huh??"

"So focus and try to help me, if you can."


"Huh???"

"Alright, Shin. It seems you don't have a very positive opinion of me. I remind you that my offer to use your face for practicing my uppercut still stands. That being said, let's get started!"

"And if I eventually find your input helpful, I'll credit you as a co-author of the book."

"???... Shin, you surprise me. A kind and appreciative gesture from you? Anyway, don't worry, you can freely choose not to credit me, it wouldn't change anything for me. So, let's begin!"