Single, lonely soul swam casually through the stream of nothingness. The void surrounded it for what felt like an eternity.

How long has it been? Months, years, centuries? Or just mere seconds that dragged on and on?

Truth be told, it didn't care much. It was content with letting the endless stream carry it onwards. It was peaceful if a little lonely.

[But are you truly comfortable? Staying like this forever?]

If the soul had a mouth, it would scoff.

What a ridiculous question, dear… piece of floating text?

That was the first time something unexpected happened during this involuntary isolation.

There was a time, long in the past, when it tried to fight back. To go against the current and find a way out. It thought that it would eventually lose its mind and identity staying here. And while the former surprisingly didn't happen, the latter had already taken root. Or maybe it was going crazy after all, considering he was being questioned by a bunch of letters hanging in the air.

[But what if I could get you out of this limbo? Would you believe it?]

The floating text implored.

Nonsense, and what are you even? Some kind of god? Fabrication of my own mind? What would you get out of it even if you were telling the truth? I only trust kindness as far as I can throw it.

At least that's what it believed. The mysterious text didn't take long to reply, reforming into new sentences.

This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.

[Oh, I require nothing much at all. In truth, I'm only looking for a manager to take care of some real estate on my behalf. As a system, I can't really make do by myself, you see. And that's a pretty good deal if I do say so myself.]

It announced nonchalantly.

Now that's just silly. What the hell is a 'system'? And a manager? Where's my grand quest? My destiny as a savior of the world? At least, that's how reincarnations are supposed to work… right? I can't really remember well. I'm pretty sure I died a long time ago, dear 'system'. I doubt I could be of any help to you unless you plan on reviving me. And if that's not the case, then let me rest in peace.

[Don't discount my offer so lightly, little soul. I would grant you an immortal body in exchange for your assistance. You'll even be able to visit the mortal realms quite often. It would be detrimental to your job, after all.]

And why should I care about leav-

[One day, I might even allow you to visit your former home~]

The self-proclaimed system announced sweetly.

Suddenly, fragments of its former self flooded the soul's consciousness. Sweet memories made with his family. His joys, accomplishments, and the bittersweet moments one finds precious only after they're already a thing of the past. They slowly returned to him, and he realized that he indeed missed his home. Missed it dearly.

Why did I ever stop fighting back? Why did I ever forget?

After a bit of deliberation, he turned his attention back to the unnatural floating text and announced through his consciousness.

If that truly is the case, then I will agree to serving you. But you have to get me out of this blasted void, and you have to give me your word you'll let me see my family.

[Splendid! But serving wouldn't really be the best term for our upcoming relationship, now that you mention it. More of a symbiosis, really. I need a host, and you'll get some sweet benefits out of it. And yes, we'll be on our way soon enough. It might take some time before you'll be able to see your loved ones, but what I said was the truth. The better you do your job, the faster you'll get to your goal even. So be sure to do your best~]

And with that awfully cheery reply, they were off to a different realm.

The collective well of expired souls was a single soul lighter that day, but none in charge of it ever noticed a thing.