1- Startup

Kenneth Dekker lives trapped in the hospital undergoing robotic lung treatment. He regularly escapes to the VR world Atlas Quest--his safe haven. There he befriends another player, a girl named Byrd. Over time, he takes comfort in having another human being to talk to as his health takes a turn for the worse.

His lungs weaken, but Kenneth knows he can't afford the lung transplant. Still, he refuses to get financial help from his abusive mother. Without anywhere else to turn, he immerses himself in Atlas Quest. He grows close to Byrd and their friendship renews his desire to live life. However, his health issues still loom ahead.

No matter what, he can't run from reality forever.