Adrift in Search of Camellias

Don't lose, Jin. The words echoed in his mind and gradually became a chant. Don't lose, Jin. Don't lose, don't lose.... Before he knew it, he was there again, in the dark ocean of his mind. This always happened these days.

In the near future of Austin, TX, Jin is struggling to regain his former glory in the VR gaming arena. In the midst of a massive losing streak, Jin doesn't know what his future holds. As a middle school dropout, VR gaming is all that Jin has. Despite his efforts, he finds himself constantly falling short of his goals, and despite advice that he should quit, he can't bring himself to do so.

Then, Magnus Anderson returns to town. Once good friends and training partners, now Magnus and Jin are in completely different leagues. Magnus is amongst the top VR Athletes in the world, while Jin struggles to regain his footing. When the two former friends meet again, who will walk away triumphant? Will Jin even have the chance to face Magnus?

Justin Cho's Adrift in Search of Camellias is about Jin's journey, finding the confidence to continue, and coming to a deeper understanding of himself.