Machigai is a 14-year-old year old boy and is 5'4 tall.

Machigai was a young boy who had known little kindness in his life. He is 14 years old and 5'4 tall. That night, Machigai's parents were careful but the protection wasn't doing its j*b it always does. His parents didn't have him planned and that he was a "Mistake". They suggested abortion but the grandma stepped in and denied their suggestion. This led to Machigai's parents becoming distant and cold, showing him little affection and often berating him for his perceived failings. At school, he was a target for the bullies, who took pleasure in tormenting him and making his life a living hell. Machigai withdrew further and further into himself, his confidence and self-esteem crumbled by the constant cruelty and abuse."

He's not very athletic, nor is he the sharpest tool in the shed. He was very clumsy and awkward and had a habit of speaking without thinking, which often earned him a slap across the face from his mother.

When Machigai was 12 years old, he tried to take his own life by jumping off the bridge. But it was no use as he was too scared after he thought of the only person who truly cared for him.

His mother's grandma, Asuka.

The only bright spot in Machigai's otherwise bleak existence was his grandmother, who showered him with love and attention that his parents had withheld. Whenever she saw him, she would pull him close and hold him tightly, whispering words of comfort and encouragement in his ear. She would give him little gifts and treats, and make him feel seen and valued in a way that his parents never had."

She was the one who helped him with his homework and helped him get better grades, she was the one who was always there for him, no matter what, She was his world, and he couldn't let her down, he couldn't break her heart, because if he did, he would never forgive himself.

Machigai's mother, Miyu is a gyru who lived for the party scene. She was often seen dressed in provocative, fashionable outfits that left little to the imagination, and her long, bleach blonde hair and heavy makeup were always flawless. She had a wild and carefree nature, was extremely manipulative, and often disappeared for days at a time to go clubbing and partying. It was at one of these parties that she had met her husband, who was charmed by her fiery personality and carefree lifestyle." Miyu was not only a party girl but also had a reputation for being bratty and entitled. She was used to having her way and tended to throw tantrums when she didn't get what she wanted. She often made demands and expected everyone around her to cater to her whims, treating Machigai and his father like personal servants rather than family members."

Machigai's dad, Riku was a person who also liked to party and get wasted a lot. He had a gambling problem and often spent money on the horse races and casinos. He is a man who has a lot of anger issues, he's a heavy smoker and drinker. He's also an abuser — Machigai has grown accustomed to being beaten up by his father.

Machigai's mother and father's relationship was strained, creating an unstoppable dangerous love.

Machigai's father would often beat him for any reason and his mother would watch with a smile on her face and often film him. They would threaten unspeakable things to Machigai if he tried telling the abuse to his grandmother or the authorities.

So, Machigai did the only thing that he could do: he kept his mouth shut and endured the pain and suffering in silence. He learned to tune out his mother's mocking laughter and his father's cruel words, blocking them out of his mind and focusing on the task at hand.

And every night, he would cry himself to sleep, wishing that his life would change and that his parents would love him like his grandmother does."

Machigai was just a normal kid until his grandmother was hospitalized. Machigai was in complete despair and couldn't handle the truth.

This drove him into a complete frenzy as he had no one to talk to and the bullying was at its worst. He would always be called weak, worthless, and useless.

Machigai would constantly be tormented and picked on by his peers, whether it be for his awkward personality or his clumsiness. He would often be pushed around and mocked, sometimes even getting into physical fights with his bullies.

However, despite his seemingly unfortunate life, Machigai would not allow the constant bullying and torment to get him down. Instead, he would keep his chin up and remain positive, choosing to focus on the brighter side of things rather than wallowing in self-pity."

He had a dream, to see the world outside and live in a different dimension, where he could be free and not be tormented.

After death, Machigai vowed to hunt down his parents and met a weird demon-looking entity. Its smile and appearance tell him that he shouldn't trust it, but when it mentioned "It'll give him a second chance in life" He agreed.

— End of Prologue Vol 0 Ch 0 —

A young boy woke up as he felt a sudden sharp pain in his chest. He opened his tired eyes that were filled with nothing but emptiness. As his vision folded, the first thing he saw was his father- grunting as he forced the kitchen knife deeper into the young boy's chest. Making him cough up lots of blood. He couldn't scream or move. This sudden event was enough to make him in shock and pain. The desperate boy's eyes scanned around the room - in need of help and he saw his mother, crossing her arms under her chest while she was sitting on the chair. The boy slowly raised his hand to the mother, shaking as he started breathing faster and more shallowly.

"H-H-E-LP!... M-OM...!"

In a desperate tone and need of protection, he yelled help - only for his mother to ignore him. The mother gazed her eyes at the father and sighed. "When will this bitch die? I thought you told me the knife option would be a faster way to end him." She said in an angry tone while tapping her foot on the floor, making it clear she wants this to escalate quickly and move on.

It was a rainy, cold day. Everyone had already taken shelter under the safety of the nearby awning, trying to stay dry from the downpour. But a young boy sat alone, huddled on a damp wooden bench, the cold seeping through his thin clothes and into his very bones. The young boy's name is Machigai, and it looks like he was kicked out temporarily yet again by his parents as a punishment. The rain continued to pour down on him, soaking him to the bone. He wrapped his arms around himself, trying in vain to find some measure of warmth. His head slumped forward onto his chest, his dark hair hanging limply in front of his face. He sat there for a long while, lost in thought. His mind wandered through a short but painful life, replaying every cruel and heartless moment from his parents. Immersed in reflection, he began to envision his grandmother, who had always treated him with the affection of a son. His thoughts revisited the joyful and memorable experiences they shared, particularly those moments when she provided him with attentive care. The thoughts of when he would have a chance to see his grandmother again, it having been four years since her last visit. He felt a wave of loneliness sweep over him as he didn't think it was possible that his life could get any worse than it already was. He was wrong. He felt his throat tighten and tears well up in his eyes, which were soon washed away by the cold, heavy raindrops. He felt his chest grow heavy, his breaths coming in short, sharp gasps. His mind became clouded, and all he could focus on was the intense pain that consumed his body and soul. He closed his eyes, allowing the tears to flow freely. He cried softly, the sound of his voice lost amidst the roaring downpour. He stayed there for what seemed like an eternity, until his tears finally subsided and his breathing returned to normal. He took a deep breath, the cool, crisp air filling his lungs. He slowly opened his eyes, letting his surroundings come back into focus. The rain had stopped, and the sun was just beginning to peek through the clouds. Machigai took a moment to gather himself before walking home. He wasn't sure what he would find, but he knew that it wouldn't be good.

The closer he got to his house, the more nervous he became. His heart pounded in his chest, his hands shook, and his knees felt weak. He stood outside the door, his hand hovering over the doorknob. He took a deep breath, his stomach churning as he slowly turned the knob. He stepped inside and was immediately greeted by his mother's icy stare. Her expression was one of pure contempt and hatred. She didn't speak, instead giving him a look that sent a shiver down his spine. He glanced at his father, Riku - who sat quietly in the corner betting on some horse racing on the TV, not even acknowledging his son's presence as he drank alcohol. Machigai was terrified. He knew what was about to happen. The only question was how long he would survive without getting abused. His mother stepped toward him, her face contorted with rage, instead of talking in an irritated tone - She simply smiled and patted his head.

"Sweetie, what made you come back?" Machigai gazed at his mother, Miyu with a look of confusion, he could read his mother's expression well.

She leaned down to Machigai's level before replying."I told you to stay in that damn park till we tell you that you can come back." Machigai gulped as his mother continued. Before he could reply, he was cut off by her. "What did I tell you about talking back to me huh?!!" She screamed and slapped him in the face. He didn't say a word, didn't even flinch. "Nothing? Fine." She grabbed his arm and dragged him towards the stairs. "Go take a bath, you stench like one of those drunk dudes who belong on the streets." She pushed him hard, causing him to stumble and fall. He quickly picked himself up and ran up the stairs.

Once he was in the bathroom, he shut the door and locked it. He turned on the water, making it as hot as possible. He stripped off his clothes and stepped into the shower, letting the steaming hot water wash over him. He stood there for a long time, trying to make sense of everything that had just happened. His mind raced with thoughts and questions. Why did his parents hate him so much? What had he done to deserve such cruelty? What would happen if they decided to kill him? These thoughts plagued his mind, but no matter how hard he tried, he couldn't shake them. He took a deep breath and closed his eyes, trying to clear his mind. He reached for the shampoo and started to lather his hair. He scrubbed his scalp vigorously, trying to forget everything. There were scars on his body, reminding him of the unimaginable pain he went through. When he was done, he rinsed off and stepped out of the shower. He wrapped a towel around himself and looked at his reflection in the mirror. His face was still red from the slap, and his eyes were red from constant crying swollen. He sighed and walked out of the bathroom, making his way to his bedroom.

When he opened the door, his breath caught in his throat. There was his father, holding a gun and pointing it right at his head. "Well, well well, looks like you finally came out of the shower, huh?" His father chuckled, drunkly. Machigai froze, not daring to move. "What's the matter, cat got your tongue?" Well, don't worry, you won't be needing it anymore. In fact, you won't need anything." With that, his father pulled the trigger. Machigai flinched as the sound of the gunshot echoed through the room. He opened his eyes and saw that he was still alive. His father smiled mischievously, unable to control his laughter. "Look at you, flinching like an idiot you are!" He said between chuckles and burps. "It was blank!"

Machigai let out a sigh of relief, his heart still racing. "Y-You really shouldn't be playing around like that... What if you accidentally shot me?!"

Machigai replied, raising his voice."

"Well then, you would be dead!" He laughed, slapping Machigai on the back. Machigai sighed, trying to calm his nerves. "I don't get why you guys keep doing this..."

His father's smile quickly disappeared. He glared at his son with an expression that sent chills down his spine. "What did you say, you little piece of shit?!" He asked, his voice full of anger. "I said I understand why you guys keep doing this..."

His words hung heavily in the air. His father looked at him for a moment, he took a moment to gather himself, and let out an annoyed sigh. "You were an accident, Machigai. We didn't plan on having you. We were about to terminate you, but that old hag of yours saved your ass." He said, his voice cold and devoid of any emotion. "But I'm here now and I'm your responsibility."

He said, his voice wavering slightly. His father glared at him, his eyes filled with hatred. I never see you as a son. You were a mistake. Nothing but a nuisance."

Machigai stood there, speechless, unable to process what he was hearing. Machigai used to hear his parents criticize him during the years but this one was different. It was a new level of abuse that even a child couldn't take. Then, a footstep appears from the hallway. The shadow reveals itself and the mother emerges from it. It looks like she overheard everything. Cuuuuties! I was about to tell you guys dinner's ready! And what's with all the noise?" She asked, looking confused. Nothing, dear."

His father replied, his voice calm and collected. "Just a little disagreement between me and our son." Miyu clapped her hands together and replied. "Ah, I see." She said, nodding. She turned to Machigai, her eyes narrowing and smiling. "Machigai," Miyu replied. "I'm sorry we treated you horribly."

"She stepped closer to him and held both of his cheeks.

"I promise we will do better."

She smiled warmly. Miyu then proceeded to wrap her arms around him and pull him in for a tight embrace. Machigai felt his heart skip a beat as his mother held him close, her warmth enveloping him. What's this? All of a sudden, his parents are being affectionate and nice towards him. "No this had to be a trick." He said in his head. Machigai looked up at his mother, taking a closer look at her expressions trying to read her - but it was no use. Was she being affectionate? Machigai always wished for his parents to treat him like their own child. Most of them are fakes, but seeing his mother being so affectionate was enough to let his guard down. He closed his eyes and breathed in her scent, a mixture of roses and jasmine. She whispered in his ear, her voice soft and soothing. "Don't worry, Machigai. We will never hurt you again. You are our precious son."

Machigai felt a single tear roll down his cheek as he hugged her back, his heart filled with love and gratitude. "Mother..." Machigai replied, sobbing. That was a mistake. As much as he wanted to believe her, something inside him told him not to trust her. Something was wrong, he could feel it. But for once, he was being treated like their own son, their own family. Machigai felt like he wasn't a stranger to them anymore. They're showing their true feelings... at least that's what he thinks. Machigai has always longed for affection. So when it was given, he took it. For the first time, he felt a sense of belonging. A feeling of security.

After another day, Machigai went downstairs and was surprised that his parents were sitting at the dining table. Their faces were pale and they were sweating. They were trembling and their hands were shaking. What's happening? The air is tense, as if someone had died. Machigai sat down next to them and waited for them to say something. But no one spoke. They just sat there, staring at each other, not saying a word. After a few moments, Machigai finally breaks the silence - "What happened, Mom and Dad?"

His voice cracked a little bit. They both stared at him, their expressions blank. His father's voice was low and raspy. "I'm sorry, son. I'm sorry for everything." Machigai was confused. Why was his father apologizing? Did something happen? Did someone die? Was he hurt? Did they lose money? He didn't know what to say. He didn't know how to react. His mind was racing. What was going on? Suddenly, his mother spoke. "Machigai... your grandmother... is dead."

Machigai was stunned. What? Dead? How? When? Where? Why? A million questions flooded his mind. He felt tears well up in his eyes, and his vision blurred. His body trembled, and his legs felt weak. He couldn't believe it. How could this happen? He sat there, paralyzed, unable to move, unable to speak. His mind was a whirlwind of emotions, his heart aching. He couldn't understand why, or how. This can't be happening. This can't be real. His grandmother. The one who loved him unconditionally, the one who treated him like a son. The only person who was truly there for him. The only person who understood him, accepted him, and cared for him. The person who made him feel like he belonged. The person who made him feel alive. The person who gave him hope. She was gone. Machigai was overcome with grief and anger. He felt his heart break into a million pieces. "How did it happen...?"

Replied in a weak tone. "Your grandmother passed away from an illness." Replied his father. Machigai couldn't believe what he was hearing. This can't be true. No. It can't be. It has to be a joke. A sick, twisted joke. There's no way. He couldn't accept it. "I'm going to my room... I need some time alone." Exclaimed, Machigai in a shivering tone as he slowly walked away. While he reached the hallway, he overheard his mother.

The mask finally wore off between the parents. The mother wiped her fake tears away and snickered. That aside, when are we getting that life insurance?" She scoffed, crossing her arms. Machigai's father replied, "Soon enough. Don't worry, my dear, I'm sure we will get it." Riku smirked - "I heard that insurance will reward us ¥7 million. It was about damn time that old hag met her end. The parents began to laugh maniacally, their voices echoing through the room. Machigai was hiding behind the wall during the twisted turn of events. He couldn't believe it. Couldn't believe the cruelty, the hatred, the disgust, the betrayal, the manipulation, the lies, the deception. Couldn't believe the fact that his parents had no heart. Had no compassion. Had no humanity. Had no morals. It was about time he had realized that the moment his parents started acting affectionate towards him, it was when the grandma was around, or when she provided the parents money for their children's education and rent. But ever since grandma's not around, things have changed drastically. This was a reality check. A rude awakening. And Machigai felt it. Felt the pain. Felt the sorrow. Felt the agony. Felt the emptiness. Felt the loss. Felt the rage. He practically felt every pain imaginable.

As days went by, he got treated horribly to the point that Machigai didn't even bother leaving his room. He couldn't escape or tell the authorities since his parents would do the unthinkable to him. He felt trapped and hopeless.

It was nighttime, and everything was quiet. Too quiet. It was eerily silent, the only sounds being the occasional passing of a car or the creaking of the old house. Machigai lay awake in his bed, unable to sleep. It had been nearly four months since the death of his grandma, and his thoughts were racing, and his mind was filled with anxiety. He had so many questions, so many fears, and no answers. After a few moments of overthinking, he went to sleep. It was a dreamless sleep, nothing but darkness. A door slowly opened and a shadow slowly appeared. It looks like it was holding a kitchen knife, and it slowly walks towards Machigai's direction. With an intent to kill. The blade was so sharp that it gleamed like a mirror. Then, Swoosh and squelched. Machigai felt a sharp pain in his chest. The shadow reveals it was his father, and it looks like he was drunk and angry. He was grunting as he forced the kitchen blade into Machigai's chest. Machigai's tired eyes looked around the room and saw his mother, sitting in the corner, ankle lock and laughing. "Aww, my darling is awake!" Despite many stabbings, Machigai was able to let out a shaking response - barely conscious. "W-Why...?" Replied Machigai as he continued coughing up blood. Miyu immediately answered - "Don't worry, sugercup! We have been planning this for a while after we both decided you should join your grandma." She grins devilishly and lets out a little laugh before zipping her mouth with her hand, her face is full of seriousness now. "That said..." The mother's lips then curled up into a sinister and cruel smile, her eyes narrowing as she reveled in her wickedness. Her expression was one of utter malevolence, a clear indication of the depraved thoughts that swirled behind her gaze. It was as though her face had been transformed by her wickedness, her features contorted into something twisted and sinister. There was a hint of madness in her eyes, as if she had already completely lost touch with reality and was now fully embracing her malevolent nature.

"You stupid son of a bitch. You're a mistake you hear that?! Miyu scoffed as she raised her voice -"After you drop dead like a bitch you are, we're gonna sell your organs to the black market and we'll be wealthy!"

"MISTAKE?" "MISTAKE?" "MISTAKE?" "MISTAKE?" "MISTAKE?" "MISTAKE?" "MISTAKE?" "MISTAKE?"

"MISTAKE?" "MISTAKE?" "MISTAKE?" "MISTAKE?"

"MISTAKE?" "MISTAKE?" "MISTAKE?" "MISTAKE?"

"MISTAKE?" "MISTAKE?" "MISTAKE?" "MISTAKE?"

"MISTAKE?" "MISTAKE?" "MISTAKE?" "MISTAKE?" x10000 - The word "Mistake" repeated in his mind, countless times. Machigai's thought of the moments they treated him like their own child. Of course, it was all nothing but fakes, but he felt a genuine connection. He reflected on the commitment made by his mother. "I promise we will be better my ass!" He said in a mocking tone.

For the first time, Machigai had completely enough. Out of pure rage, he grabbed his father's hand that was holding the knife, thrusting the sharp blade deeper into his chest. He could feel his lungs filling up his chest with blood, forcing his lungs to be inflated.

His empty eyes met his father's and mother's, both sending a shiver down their spines. "You will never be at peace! I‐I will fucking come back to life and hunt you for eternity!"

With his dying breath, Machigai vowed to come back and haunt his parents for the rest of their lives. As he slowly closed his eyes, a strange sensation came over him. It was as if time had stopped, the whole world standing still. He could feel the cold, the softness of the bed beneath him, and the warm, sticky blood pouring from his wounds. His mind raced with thoughts, but everything was a blur. All he could think about was his parents' malicious actions, and how he would make them pay. As he thought of his grandma, it was all too much - his senses were on overdrive, and the pain was unbearable. He couldn't think straight, and the world seemed to be spinning. His whole body was in agony. Everything went black.

Until a certain sunlight appears.

The next thing he knew, he found himself in an unfamiliar place, with nothing but pure whiteness - Almost as if he's in heaven. Machigai looked around in an attempt to find the difference, but everything was still blurry and white. He couldn't remember what had happened, and he was confused and disoriented. He couldn't feel a single limb on his body. The only thing he could feel was pain. His body was so transparent that it looked like he had no physical body, or no idea where he was, or how he had gotten there. The only thing he knew was that he had been murdered. During a moment of contemplation, a figure emerged from the light. Presenting form characterized by a dichotomy of black and white skin. Two red horns protrude from the top of its head and a long, serpentine tail swishes behind it. Its piercing red eyes stared at Machigai, as if they were looking into his very soul. It may look like a demon, but it looks like a weird type of unknown entity. The figure smiled, revealing its sharp, pointed teeth. Its arm is raised, almost as if indicating to point at the young boy. "I'm...s.ure- y-ou ha-ve ma-ny q-estions, an-d how you en-ed up h-re." It declared, with a distinctive speech pattern and intermittent static-like sounds. It noticed the young boy was looking at him frightened and smirked - "I am not a de..mon. I am one of th...e Gods, known...as The Architect..a.. bein...g wh-o creat-ed ..everything...alo...ngside...the eight absolute bein...gs." It paused, allowing its words to sink in as it cleared its throat, almost as if it hadn't been speaking with its voice for a while.

The reason why..you are... here is because you have... a chance for a new life, a second chance. You can start a new life with your past life memory, which will give you an advantage. But it will come with a price and that is your soul."

The being spoke, its voice echoing through the void. Machigai listened carefully, he knew this being felt pity about his past life, which is why it gave him a second chance. His mind was racing with thoughts. What kind of power? How can he be granted another chance? Was this even real? "W-hy would- you do th-at?" Machigai stuttered, his voice trembling and with intermittent static-like sounds.

"You have a lot to learn, child. The Architect answered with a devilish smile, indicating that it could read the young boy's thoughts, loud and clear.

"Your new life will be much harder than the first one or easier, depending on what country you were born in." Machigai looked at The Architect in a puzzled and confused expression.

"It's a risk you must take, a sacrifice. However, your death will not go unpunished. You have a great power within you. With that power, you can change the fate of the world you're being reincarnated in. When that time arrives, you will awaken it."

The Architect spoke, its voice calm and soothing but still intermittent static-like sounds. Machigai's mind was a whirlwind of emotions. He had so many questions, but he was too afraid to ask. He felt helpless and confused. "How can I trust you?" He asked, his voice barely above a whisper. "I have the power of a god, and I can give you anything you want, and more." The Architect answered, a hint of amusement in their voice. Machigai thought for a moment, his mind reeling. What did he have to lose? If the Architect was telling the truth, then maybe he could finally live in peace.

"Ok, I will do it," Machigai replied, his voice shaking with fear- but he was determined. Even if it means being reincarnated, the only thing he could ask for is being born in a family that isn't like his past life.

The Architect smiled, its eyes glowing red, clearly enjoying the young boy's determination. "Excellent. Now, your soul is mine." The Architect raised its hand at the young boy and lightly touched his chest, Machigai - closed his eyes and took a deep breath. He could feel the sensation coursing through his veins, and his body tingled with anticipation. His soul was about to be reborn.

- One of the Gods, "The Breath of Life" watched from the shadows with anger and frustration as The Architect stole one of its tasks. -

Everything was pitch black again for a few seconds.

The darkness slowly began to fade, and as their eyes slowly fluttered open, they found themselves cradled in the warm embrace of a woman they assumed was their mother. The familiar sounds and smells of home were replaced by an unfamiliar, foreign environment. The memories of their previous life still lingered at the edge of their consciousness, like fragments of a dream that were slipping from their grasp.

This was the beginning of a new life, a life filled with possibility and unknown challenges. But whatever lay ahead, they knew that they were ready to face it head-on.

The journey was only just beginning.

- End of Chapter 1, Vol 1 -