Zenshu

The boy had stayed in the shadows of the shop, or at least a distance away from Zenshu, the entire time he'd been planning out his designs. Rather than calling the youngling out, or putting any attention onto the already nervous and hesitant individual, Zenshu had chosen to ignore him - at least, until he was ready to step forward and approach the counter. The piece that Zenshu was handed could be considered a crude drawing; detailed enough to give Zenshu a strong idea of what the individual wanted designed, but far from the prettiest handiwork. 

He took some time to look over the image, studying it far beyond what was actually necessary, before nodding to the man and handing the journal back to him. "This should be...doable. It may take some time, but I'll see what I can do here."

He'd had two customers come to him in just a few days - a sign that his business was starting to really take off. Or, at least, that's how it appeared to him. People are taking an interest in my work. I mean, that must mean something, right? Zenshu had considered it as a step towards success - a measure that he was beginning to make a name for himself. That, or people simply had nowhere else to go when they required decent tailorship work. Let's avoid the negativity, now. Think positive!

The second arrival had caused Zenhu's attention to break as the door had been rattled numerous times. He'd waited, patiently, trying to figure out what was going on. Maybe an animal...? He hadn't seen many animals in the settlements of Aincrad, but that didn't mean they didn't exist. 

He was just considering leaving his position in order to go open the door, when the individual in question managed to find their way into the shop itself. Zenshu had sat - confused, a little bit worried, and just overly overwhelmed by the events that followed. He'd accepted the proposed designs quietly - a simple nod of agreement given, before the man had handed him a few items and turned to leave.

"Uh...yeah! Okay...let me...let me just get to work on this..." He mumbled as the figure made their way back out of the shop. Zenshu shook his head after a few seconds, before turning back to his work, befuddled and bemused at the events that had occurred, but knowing he had made a promise to get things done.

The woman had been abrupt. Arriving, placing her order, confirming the details, before leaving. Not that Zenshu had minded - he'd been focused on his work, and although the new piece was interesting - its design would be something that would challenge Zenshu, but would also give him something to look forward to. He grinned as he began his work, determined to create something that would impress his customer.

He took the compliment from the blonde lady with a smile, not entirely sure the conviction was behind it – but accepting it nonetheless. He knew that some would hold differing opinions to his own, and he was fine with that. There as no benefit in arguing, as far as he saw it.

“That storm looks like it’s going to hit us, hard…” He mumbled, more to himself than to his companion – or the older man shuffling alongside them. He squinted his eyes, glancing between the storm, the surrounding area, and their NPC guide. There weren’t many places to go, aside from ahead. “I guess we just hope for the best…Maybe our friend here knows of some sort of shelter where we can abide…? No, I guess not…”

He’d begun to direct the question at the older man, who seemed to ignore it entirely, instead trudging onwards with conviction that seemed to denote a complete lack of acknowledgement of the storm itself. Throwing a smile towards Krysta, Zenshu gave a half-shrug as he pushed on after the man.

“Here’s hoping that the storm doesn’t somehow blow us away, I guess?” He twisted back after a couple of skipping steps, smiling at the girl before jesting. “Not quite the day at the beach that one would expect, right?”

ID209826 | CD: 5 | Sandstorm | No Affect

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Word Count: 216

Zenshu awoke in a cramped position, his left arm feeling as if it had been twisted in unnatural directions throughout the entirety of his resting. His sleep had been almost as painful, filled with dreams that he’d prefer to never revisit if given the opportunity. Sighing, he’d pulled himself up into a seated position on the cot, his eyes travelling to the small fox, laid out on the comfortable bed that Zenshu had made himself for the companion.

“Hopefully your rest was more pleasant than my own. You look well rested enough…which is good! We have big plans for today, plans that I think you’d going to enjoy! Or, at least I hope you’re going to enjoy them…” He smiled at Kagay, trying to instill the enthusiasm that he doubted that the fox was feeling. The little critter seemed to stare back at Zenshu with a hesitant appearance, as if curious what Zenshu had planned, but apprehensive about the activities themselves. “But before we do any of that, we need some food! How about we get some breakfast, and then we can focus on the whole fun day activities after that?”

Unsurprisingly the small fox leaped at the mention of food, the apprehension and concern over the day’s possible events tossed aside as it realised that a meal was to be had. Zenshu couldn’t help but smile at the sudden flip in behaviour, almost envious of the carefree attitude that the small creature was able to display. Likely as much Cardinal’s doing, as the actual behaviour of animals…it would be truly simple to simply overwrite behaviour, as part of the game…to make these companions appear carefree, or happy, or sad…and then sudden change with the will of the…master? No, that sounds wrong…friend?

He shrugged physically in response to the question in his mind, deciding that there were more important things to deal with now than the question of companionship and titles. Rising to his feet, he found himself having to dodge the small fox interweaving between his steps as he made his way to the kitchen, the entire experience bringing laughter to his small shop as he struggled by.

Statblock

Spoiler Notes [Theme] Zenshu | Lv. 11 | P. 0 | HP [220/220] | EN [40/40] | ACC [3] | DMG [7] | EVA [2] | MIT [12] | REGEN [4] | RISKY [+1 BD] | L.Momentum [+1 B.DMG] | LD [3] | Stealth Detect [+3] Tier 2 Equipped Shadow [One-Handed Straight Sword | Tier 2] Enhancement: Damage[1 Slot] Enhancement: Accuracy [2 Slots]  Light Blue Samue [Clothing | Tier 2] Enhancement: Evasion [1 Slot] Enhancement: Light Momentum [1 Slot] Light Blue Haori [Cloth Armour | Tier 2] Enhancement: Evasion [1 Slot] Enhancement: Regen [1 Slot] Enhancement: Risky [1 Slot] Battle-Ready Inventory Starter Healing Potions {5} | Heals 50 HP Uncommon Healing Potion {1} | Tier 1 | HP Recovery I Uncommon Damage Potion {1} | Tier 1 | Damage I Uncommon Overhealth Potion {1} | Tier 1 | Overhealth I Skills Spoiler Utility Skills Searching [Rank: 3. Active: Passive. Effect: +1 LD per rank. +1 to Stealth Detection per rank.] [Searching Mod] Night Vision [Active: Passive. Effect: Ignores any penalties from low light or darkness. Negates the bonus Stealth Rating from low light or darkness.] Combat Skills N/A Weapon Skills Straight Sword [Rank: 3. Active: Passive. Effect: +5 DMG] Armour Skills Cloth Armour [Rank: 3. Active: Passive. Effect: 12 MIT. Your mitigation is capped at 1 equipment slots.] [Cloth Armour Mod] Athletics [Active: Passive. Effect: Gain +1 base Damage.] Active Extra Skills N/A Inactive Extra Skills  N/A Combat Mastery Accuracy [Rank: 1. Active: Passive. Effect: Gain +1 to BD per rank. Ranks of this Skill obey Accuracy enhancement caps.] Familiar Skills N/A Sword Arts Spoiler [x6] ST-I (6 EN) | A single-target sword art. [x5] AOE-I (5 + 2 * targets EN) | AOE | A sword art that strikes multiple targets at once. [x6] TECH-A (7 EN) | STUN | A single-target sword art that stuns an enemy. Estate Buffs Spoiler N/A

The meal had been quick – more a collection of snacks, compiled into what equated to a meal’s worth of food. Zenshu had given much of it to Kagay, nibbling away at small bits as he looked over the order forms that had been dropped into his drop box. Most seemed simple enough, a couple that would require his utmost attention and skill – things that he figured he’d leave for slightly later, just to ensure the highest possible quality.

Once they had finished their food, Zenshu had made his way back into the main work area, setting up and beginning the tedious, yet enjoyable sewing that he had begun to partake in as part of his tailoring experience. He’d quickly found himself lost in the work, looking up to find the time had passed unnoticed.

His distraction had come in the form of an alert, a new quest that had become available. One that would allow him to make better use out of his friend. He smiled towards Kagay, wondering what the fox would think of a training regime. He doubted the little critter would mind – it seemed happy to serve, in many ways.

“Something for another day, though. I think for today, I need to rest a bit…it’s been quite busy already…” Zenshu stood, stretching as he glanced over what he had completed. He was happy with how most of it was turning out, although he could already see things that could be perfected. It was a long way from when he had started however. As his eyes glanced over one small set of clothing, his mind suddenly brought Koko to mind – the happiness she had displayed at seeing her mother once more. The image brought a smile to his face, and as he made his way towards the small cot he had set up in the back room to rest in, he couldn’t help but wonder if he’d done some good here, after all. He ended up falling asleep to those thoughts, considering the good and bad that had happened here, and trying to figure out where he fell into it all.

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Word Count: 353

Thread Summary

Zenshu

Word Count: 5,756

EXP: 5,756 / 10 = 575 [Thread Progression] + 500 [Quest] = 1,075 EXP
Col: 400 [Thread Progression] + 50 (25x2; ID209790) = 450 col
Glow Stone (1)

He’d stopped momentarily in the main court of the second floor, listening to a collection of players arguing about something related to the frontlines. He’d heard conversation about rumours, and things that he hadn’t entirely understood – scouting for the new labyrinth, alongside quests that would gain them information for fighting the boss. He’d made a mental note to follow up with it, once he was closer to being involved with the frontlines a bit more.

“It’s good to be back.” He spoke the simple words as he re-entered his small tailor shop, Kagay at his feet making a small chirping sound of agreement. The fox had followed him dutifully through the caves, keeping aside when required, but otherwise there as an invisible support. Smiling at his companion, he reached down and ran a hand along the small creature’s spine, feeling the soft fur beneath his fingers.

“What do you say we get something to eat, then focus on some pressing work that needs to be done?” Zenshu said, his eyes catching sight of the collection of order forms that had been left in the drop-box he had installed for when he was away. Kagay gave another quick chirp of agreement, before racing towards the back room, clearly aware of where the food was being kept.

Stifling a small laugh, Zenshu took a moment to look around his quiet shop, revelling in it, before making his way after Kagay. He knew that it was somewhat lonely here, yet somehow the quiet was also welcoming – as if all his time alone in the game had somehow changed him. He still enjoyed the company of others, thrived in it, yet…he could also find solace in the quiet, lonely atmosphere of floor ten.

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Word Count: 289

Zenshu held back a couple of steps as Koko rushed forwards towards her mother, wanting to give the two NPCs a moment of connection. He watched with a smile as the girl leaped into her mother’s arms, both individuals crying at the sudden reconnection that had occurred.

“I'm sorry, Mama!” Zenshu turned his head away as the two shared a few moments of conversation, Koko apologising for her disappearance, and her mother seemingly only happy to have her daughter returned to her. He didn’t want to intrude, and so was caught off guard when the woman suddenly spoke to him, forcing his attention back to the pair.

“Thank you... I cannot even explain how grateful I am to you. I am forever in your debt, both me and Koko are. I know it's not much, but please, take it, it's some money I scraped together... and a little something extra.” Zenshu watched as the items were held out, taking them with some reluctance. He knew that it was likely not really the only money the NPC had – the system would ensure that, yet somehow it felt wrong to him. “Again, thank you for saving her. I have no idea what I would do if Koko was harmed... and speaking of Koko, what do we say?”

Zenshu smiled once more as the girl gave her thanks, bowing slightly towards the two of them before taking his leave. He quickly stored away the col and item – something called a glow stone – before making his way towards the teleporter, and home.

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Word Count: 258

The town had been much the same as when Zenshu had first left to go find the missing girl. Players and NPCs moved throughout the fairly open streets, the throngs of people condensed only due to the pre-determined paths that the NPCs were required to take.

As Koko made her way through the streets, Zenshu following along closely behind – determined not to lose her now, that he was so close to completing the quest. The two were forced to swerve between small groups of people as they pushed further into the town, Koko calling out for her mother, and Zenshu keeping his eyes open for the woman who had first approached them.

They had finally found the woman in a central square, speaking with another player in order to activate the quest. Zenshu had managed to keep the NPC from rushing forwards, only by diverting her attention momentarily towards another point. He wasn’t sure that their appearance would cause problems for the other player, but he hadn’t wanted to take the risk – besides, it would be discouraging for himself if another was to show up and complete the quest, just as he was beginning it.

Although I guess it would make you realise that it is something that can be completed, if you see someone else do it…He shook his head to clear away the thought, turning his attention back to Koko. With a smile he nodded towards the woman he had spied, pointing Koko in the direction. “I think I see her over there, should we go check, just to make sure?”

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Word Count: 263

Zenshu watched in a combination of awe, surprise and confusion as the girl spoke. She seemed heavily invested in the actual mechanics of the game – rattling off things that he could only guess at, with his current engagement. Still, she seemed knowledgeable, so he smiled at her comments and questions, giving small hums of agreement when required.

Shrugging to himself, he watched as Row turned towards the wolves, letting out a screaming challenge with a smile on her face. Caught somewhat by surprise, Zenshu found himself drawing his ninjato in a rush, before flipping it into the reverse hand grip and rushing towards the wolves.

Sliding across the grass, he dodged the first two easily enough, ducking beneath their lunges before catching himself in the centre of their mass. He took a single quick look around him, before muttering to himself softly. “Surrounded on all sides. Excellent…should be harder to miss this way…”

He quickly shifted his footing, sliding in a circle and slashing outwards with his ninjato, hoping to catch them all in a single swipe.

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[0][0][0][0] Zenshu | Lv. 10 | HP: 200/200 | EN: 29/38 | DMG: 8 | ACC: 3 | LD: 2 | EVA: 1 | MIT: 12 | Regen: 2 | Risky: 1 DMG | Stealth Detect: +1
[2][2][2][2] Row | Lv. 12 | Health: 240/240 | Energy: 36/42 | BH: 1% Max HP (2HP) | EN Regen: 2 | Mit: 44 | Ax Dmg: 8 | ACC 2 | Bleed I (24) | PARA I | Thorn II (36) LD: 5 | Stealth Detect: 5 | Stealth: -1
[Quick Change 2/3]
[Howl Used]

Wolf A | HP: 136/160 | MIT: 0 | DMG: 48 
Wolf B | HP: 133/160 | MIT: 0 | DMG: 48 
Wolf C | HP: 136/160 | MIT: 0 | DMG: 48 
Wolf D | HP: 136/160 | MIT: 0 | DMG: 48 

Round One
ID209786 | BD: 5+3=8 | <<AOE-I vs. Wolf A>> | Hit: 8x3 = 24 DMG
ID209787 | BD: 9+3=12 | <<AOE-I vs. Wolf A>> | Minor Critical Hit: (8+1)x3 = 27 DMG
ID209788 | BD: 4+3=7 | <<AOE-I vs. Wolf A>> | Hit: 8x3 = 24 DMG
ID209789 | BD: 3+3=6 | <<AOE-I vs. Wolf A>> | Hit: 8x3 = 24 DMG

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Word Count: 277

The bright sunlight had seemed to reinvigorate the young girl, her demeanor changing as soon as they had left the darkness of the cave behind. Zenshu had assumed that with it, the fear had been left as well – thus causing the girl to become more childlike in her behaviour. She had begun skipping as they walked, her words suddenly gaining vigor, and her answers shifting to short, condensed responses, to actual childlike questions.

She’d begun to roam further and further away from Zenshu’s side – not so far as to concern him, still close enough that he could rush forward should anything approach them – seeming to enjoy the walk as she picked out the different flowers, and rocks, and clouds, and anything else that seemed interesting in the moment.

Koko had just pointed out yet another interesting cloud – this one in the shape of a dragon, or so she’d told him – when Zenshu spotted the outline of the small town in the distance. He had nodded towards it, watching the girl’s eyes shift over, then light up as she realised they were almost back. He’d watched with humour as the girl had rushed forward – stopping as soon as she realised she was a bit too far away for safety’s sake, but clearly anxious to return to the safety of the town’s walls.

Deciding not to torment the girl, Zenshu picked up his own pace – a part of him enthusiastic about getting back as well, if only to be done with this quest. He did admit, though, that deep down he would be a bit sad at its conclusion – he had been enjoying the company of Koko for the last little bit.

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Word Count: 280

The explosion of shards lit up the small tunnel briefly as the bat disappeared from sight. A quick side glance confirmed that Koko was still huddled into the small nook that Zenshu had left her in, safely tucked away from any sort of dangers that might have followed the single bat towards their current position.

Zenshu paused for a moment, letting his eyes wander around the tunnel, and his ears perked, trying to determine if any further threats were waiting for them in the darkness. After a few breaths, he felt himself relax slightly, as certain as he could be that their immediate danger was over.

“Shall we get out of here, now?” Zenshu turned to Koko with a smile, remembering belatedly that she likely couldn’t see him. Trying to comfort her as best he could, he reached out carefully, knocking on the wall as he went so that she could hear his approach, and continuing to speak in order to provide her the knowledge that he was there. “Here, I think I can see the entrance, or exit rather, of the cave just up ahead. We should be out of here in no time! And then it’s just a quick walk back towards the town, and we can reunite you! Does that sound okay?”

Almost frantically, Koko grasped his hand, pulling herself closer to him. A brief moment of surprise, before Zenshu simply led them towards the glimmer that signalled their exit from the cave, continuing to talk in a reassuring voice as they made their way out of the darkness, and back into the normal daylight.

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Word Count: 268

The giant bat did almost what Zenshu expected – flying straight towards him at the last second, before suddenly dropping towards him. What he hadn’t expected was for his opponent to roll over on its side, and swing outwards at him with a wing – slamming into his face and causing him to spin away, his blade clattering harmlessly off the rock wall beside him.

Cursing slightly, Zenshu found his footing again before charging towards the giant bat. The creature had crippled its own escape route while striking Zenshu, and he had no plans to allow the thing the chance to escape. Sliding across the floor, he swung upwards with his blade, forcing the creature back towards the wall and away from any avenue that would allow it to easily outmaneuver him.

“Almost…done…here…just a few more minutes and I should have this thing all….cleared away!” Zenshu called out as he dodged, ducked and rolled away from the bat – which had suddenly gone on the offensive, forcing him to work to drive it back. He slashed again with his ninjato, aiming for the centre of the giant creature’s body as he worked to land just one, solid strike on it.

“I am so going to enjoy ending you, here and now…” He whispered to the creature as it attempted to leave his short ranged area. Driving forwards he pressed his attack, a flurry of strikes with the intention of opening the bat’s defenses, allowing just a single hit to land.

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Zenshu | Lv. 10 | HP: 179/200 [+2 Regen] | EN: 37/38 | DMG: 9 (8+1) | LD: 5 | EVA: 1 | MIT: 12 | Regen: 2 | Risky: 1 DMG | Stealth Detect: +1

Giant Bat | HP: 0/75 | DMG: 35

Round Two
ID209785 | BD: 9 | <<ST-I vs. Giant Bat>> | Minor Critical Hit: (9+1)x8 = 80 DMG | Giant Bat is defeated!

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Word Count: 247

The swooping sound reached Zenshu’s ears just as his eyes caught sight of the creature hugging the roof of the tunnel. Ducking, he barely avoided the extended talons that had attempted to rake along his face. Pulling Koko to the side, he settled her in against the wall, smiling – even though she couldn’t see him – before speaking to her quickly.

“Alright, there’s one big bad creature here that I need to defeat before we can go home. Can you do me a favour and stay right here while I get rid of it? Then we can head home and get you reunited with your mommy, okay?” The girl gave a whimper of agreement, the best that Zenshu could possibly hope for in the situation. Nodding, more to himself than to her response, he turned and drew his ninjato, flipping it around and into the reverse grip – careful not to hit Koko with it.

Stepping out into the centre of the tunnel, he watched and waited for the giant bat to return, eyeing the area it had disappeared to. His waiting didn’t last long, as the thing swooped forwards toward him, talons extended once more.

“Alright, Koko, one quick hit and we’re out of here!” He called out, both to the girl and the bat – trying to draw its attention entirely on him. Ducking underneath the path of the bat, he swung upwards, hoping to slide across the weakened side of the creature with his blade.

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Zenshu | Lv. 10 | HP: 177/200 | EN: 36/38 | DMG: 9 (8+1) | LD: 5 | EVA: 1 | MIT: 12 | Regen: 2 | Risky: 1 DMG | Stealth Detect: +1

Giant Bat | HP: 75/75 | DMG: 35

Round One
ID209782 | BD: 4 | <<ST-I vs. Giant Bat>> | Miss [-2 EN]
ID209782 | MOB: 7 | <<Giant Bat vs. Zenshu>> | Hit: 35-12 = 23 DMG [Risky]

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Word Count: 245

Another curve, and they’d passed another point that Zenshu could’ve sworn they’d already passed a number of times. Silently cursing himself, he glanced down at the girl at his side. She’d been following him along without any complaint, responding to his prodding commentary once in a while – the typical way that NPCs did – but otherwise content just to be led.

“I think we’re getting close, now!” Zenshu said as he led the girl onwards. A slight shimmering, almost as if sunlight bouncing off rocks, had caught his attention ahead of them. He couldn’t be entirely sure, but he was hoping it would be the exit to this maze of tunnels. “Not long now and we’ll be out of here, and on our way back home! That sound good?”

The girl nodded at his question, but otherwise remained silent. He couldn’t blame her. It felt like they’d been walking for hours, now. Even he was getting fairly tired, and finding it troublesome to keep up high spirits. I do hope that we’re out of here shortly, otherwise keeping us both happy will become…troublesome. Besides, I’d prefer not to die in a dark cave, with nobody but a lovely little NPC girl to mark my passing…

A shimmer of movement caught his attention, and Zenshu pulled himself to a sudden stop – halting Koko alongside him as well. She had just begun to say something when Zenshu hissed her quiet, his eyes darting along the tunnel, trying to find what had caught his attention.

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Word Count: 251

A final flick of his blade, and Zenshu found himself standing in the centre of where the large plant creature had once been, the shards of its existence falling around him before disappearing from sight. He let out a sigh of satisfaction as he sheathed the small ninjato again, turning with a smile to the girl whom had accompanied him. He listened as she spoke about luck, nodding politely.

“I would absolutely love to grind together a bit, if you’re up for it! It definitely ended far quicker than expected…but that doesn’t mean the day is over yet, right? There’s a good collection of wolves, and boars, and other creatures that we can still hit up!” His eyes passed over the fields around them, before spotting a few packs of wolves that looked enticing. He nodded towards the one group, smiling broadly again as he considered rushing them.

“How about that pack? They look decent enough, three of them all at once should prove a bit tricky, but not over the top dangerous. I think…I mean, I doubt it would be any more concerning than the boss we just faced here, right?” He cocked his head to the right, the smile still plastered on him as he waited for an answer from the other player, considering their options around them. He was reluctant to call the day so early, and hoped that they would be out for a time yet.

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Word Count: 240

Zenshu heard the shouted warning as he dodged under yet another unsuccessful attack attempt by the vine creature. He glanced at the girl, making sure she was okay before pushing his body into motion once more. He knew that if her aggro ability had finally come to an end, there was little he could do, but he could see the end of the battle just within reach – if only he could land his final hit against the creature.

“Cover me, I’m going to try something reckless!” He called out with a grin on his face, before leaping into the air and trying to flip over one of the vines – barely avoiding getting slammed by it in the process. He rushed towards the creature, dodging, leaping and ducking underneath the on-going assault with relative nimbleness, eventually finding himself face to what would normally be the face of the creature.

Moving quickly, he let his body rotate, turning in place as he drove the blade towards the creature’s main section, hoping to drive it deep enough to hurt the thing. He knew that he had placed himself in a precarious position, right near the main body, well within wrapping range of all the tentacles that swarmed from the body. But he also knew that it was a vital spot for the creature, and hopefully the spot that would end all of this for them quickly.

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[3] Zenshu | Lv. 10 | HP: 158/200 | EN: 3/38 | DMG: 8 | ACC: 3 | LD: 2 | EVA: 1 | MIT: 12 | Regen: 2 | Risky: 1 DMG | Stealth Detect: +1
[3] Row | Lv. 12 | Health: 226/240 | Energy: 36/42 | Battle healing: 1% Max HP (2HP) | Mit: 26 | Ax Dmg: 6 | ACC 2 | Bleed I (12) | PARA I | Thorn II (18) LD: 5 | Stealth Detection: 5 (stats lowered due to Tier Lock)

Nepent Variant | HP: 0/200 | MIT: 10 | DMG: 25 | ACC: 1 |  EVA: 0

Round Four
ID209773  | BD: 4+3=7 | <<ST-II vs. Nepent Variant>> | 8x8-10 = 54 DMG | Nepent Variant is defeated.

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Word Count: 233

Zenshu glanced over at the other player at the mention of AOE attacks, before glancing down at his blade again. He had been sure that he was using single-targets, but perhaps she was just entirely caught up in the fight itself? Shrugging, he ducked under another wild vine, the brunt of the previous one still wearing off in his head.

“It’s already well under, let’s get this finished as quickly as possible, shall we?” He called out. His eyes roamed the plant, watching the wild vines swinging about, dodging the few that came his way as he tried to figure out the best avenue of attack. He could see the centre of the creature, the main area that he would likely attack.

Ducking underneath another vine, he decided there was nothing further to wait for. He rushed forwards, jumping across swinging vines and lashing arms, aiming for the centre of mass that housed what Zenshu assumed was the main thinking area of the creature. He hoped that Row had his back, keeping the attention on herself – although he felt bad about that, to a degree. But he also knew that she was more heavily armoured than himself, he’d seen her take the hits almost as if there was nothing to them.

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[2] Zenshu | Lv. 10 | HP: 158/200 [+2 Regen] | EN: 13/38 | DMG: 9 (8+1; Risky) | ACC: 3 | LD: 2 | EVA: 1 | MIT: 12 | Regen: 2 | Risky: 1 DMG | Stealth Detect: +1
[3] Row | Lv. 12 | Health: 224/240 | Energy: 37/42 | Battle healing: 1% Max HP (2HP) | Mit: 26 | Ax Dmg: 4 | ACC 2 | Bleed I (12) | PARA I | Thorn II (18) LD: 5 | Stealth Detection: 5 (stats lowered due to Tier Lock) [Howl CD (3/3)]

Nepent Variant | HP: 14/200 | MIT: 10 | DMG: 25 | ACC: 1 |  EVA: 0
Plant Frenzy | On MD 9-10, the Nepent will strike all party members for 35 DMG.
Photosynthesis | On CD 9-12, the Nepent will restore 15 HP and gain 5 MIT until its next turn.
Weapon Lock | Only Sword Arts of Rank 2 or lower may be used against this boss.
Tier Lock | For the duration of the fight, all of the participants’ stats that scale with Tier are calculated as though they’re Tier 1. [DMG/MIT/BLEED enhancements etc.]

Round Three
ID209770 | BD: 4+3=7 | <<ST-I versus Nepent Variant>> | Hit: 9x8-10 = 62 DMG

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Word Count: 211

He’d found the girl, easy enough. At least, he assumed it had been easy – there was little difficulty in coming across the small outcropping she’d been hiding in. Small difficulty in convincing her to come home with him, and being able to begin leading her. Where the difficulty had started was on the return to that home. Zenshu felt like he’d begun walking in circles, swearing to himself that it hadn’t taken anywhere near this long to find the girl, that he’d followed a relatively straight path to her.

“We’re almost at the exit, I think!” He exclaimed for yet another time, trying to keep the girl’s hopes up – if she had any at all. He pondered whom he was trying to convince in reality, the girl or himself. I swear we should be there by now…by a while ago, in fact. I should’ve kept better track of how long it took me to find her, and the exact directions! I’d have sworn I already saw that outcropping twice now…

He didn’t let his frustration show, continuing to talk in a cheery voice, and playing games with the girl as he led her further and further along the path. He doubted the NPC would react to it anyways, but again he couldn’t be sure. Shaking away his doubts, he moved his feet forward, knowing that eventually they’d come out somewhere.

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Word Count: 230

The vine slammed into Zenshu, just as he’d been about to speak his success. Feeling the wind almost knocked out of him from the blow, he felt himself slide backwards a few steps in response. The strike had come almost out of nowhere, the plant being semi-docile, until suddenly it moved into a near frenzied state.

“Hey watch out for the…yeah, those…” He called out as he saw Row take the same strike that had hit him. He listened as his newfound partner jeered and jested at the creature, acting as if it somehow understood her – and perhaps it did? Zenshu had never taken the time to consider it, wanting instead to simply end these fights as quickly as possible.

Shrugging it aside, he ducked underneath another wild vine, before pushing himself into motion. His initial attack had gone well, allowing him to cut away at the creature. He’d seen the effect of Row’s howl ability take route, drawing the creature towards the tank over Zenshu himself – something he was more than happy to have happen.

“Keep it occupied, I’ll try and cut it down on the flank, and from behind!” He called out as he slipped underneath yet another wild vine. He rolled to his left, allowing the blade to follow his movement and hoping the tip would slice along the creature’s side. He could feel the sword art activate, the blue shimmer on the air following the motion, leaving a trail telling of where his weapon had been; where it had started, and where it was going. Let’s not be too long at this, now. Quick, clean, simple.

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[2] Zenshu | Lv. 10 | HP: 179/200 [+2 Regen] | EN: 20/38 | DMG: 9 (8+1; Risky) | ACC: 3 | LD: 2 | EVA: 1 | MIT: 12 | Regen: 2 | Risky: 1 DMG | Stealth Detect: +1
[2] Row | Lv. 12 | Health: 231/240 | Energy: 40/42 | Battle healing: 1% Max HP (2HP) | Mit: 26 | Ax Dmg: 4 | ACC 2 | Bleed I (12) | PARA I | Thorn II (18) LD: 5 | Stealth Detection: 5 (stats lowered due to Tier Lock)
[Howl used]

Nepent Variant | HP: 77/200 | MIT: 15 | DMG: 25 | ACC: 1 |  EVA: 0
Plant Frenzy | On MD 9-10, the Nepent will strike all party members for 35 DMG.
Photosynthesis | On CD 9-12, the Nepent will restore 15 HP and gain 5 MIT until its next turn.
Weapon Lock | Only Sword Arts of Rank 2 or lower may be used against this boss.
Tier Lock | For the duration of the fight, all of the participants’ stats that scale with Tier are calculated as though they’re Tier 1. [DMG/MIT/BLEED enhancements etc.]

Round Two
ID209767 | BD: 4+3=7 | <<ST-II vs. Nepent Variant>> | Hit: 9x11-15 = 84 DMG

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Word Count: 270

He’d almost missed the shifting form of the girl when he first passed by the outcropping in the wall. He’d caught it out of the corner of his eye, just as he’d been turning away. Slowly, careful not to spook the shape, he lowered himself down and smiled – doubtful that she could see him, but knowing that it made his general tone and appearance less frightening. Or so he hoped.

“Hey, you must be Koko…your mother sent me to find you. She said that you’d disappeared into the caves, and that your friend had come back and said you’d been attacked by monsters! That must’ve been really scary, but I’m here to help you get home now, okay?” He waited a moment as the girl seemed to shrink into herself – more likely startled by the sound of his voice suddenly in the dark, than by anything he’d said. After a few breaths, she seemed to realise what was happening, what he’d said, and she slowly began to uncurl herself.

“You’re going to…take me home?” The voice was childlike, as far as Zenshu could tell. Something about it reminded him of one of his cousins, many years younger than himself. He had to shake his head, to get the image out of his mind. Now was a time to focus, not reminisce.

“That’s right! I’m here to help you get back home, okay?” He waited for the small jerk of a nod, before continuing. He reached out as he spoke, careful not to prod her before she was ready. “Alright…can you see me at all? No? That’s okay…I’m going to take your hand, to lead you out of here okay? I can see in here, thanks to my good eyes…so I’ll make sure we get out safely!”

Although obviously unsure, the girl seemed to take comfort in his guidance, letting him take her hand and guide her out of the outcropping. Zenshu looked around once more, before leading the girl back the way he had come.

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Word Count: 335

He was caught off guard by the girl’s sudden change in demeanor. Far more outgoing, than she had first appeared, Zenshu couldn’t help but smile as she bombarded him with questions. He nodded along as she explained her own playstyle, before confirming once more that he was indeed ready for anything that the game could throw at them.

“I’ll be entirely honest, this is my first time facing a field boss…but I think I can handle it. We can definitely keep the aggro focused on you though, I won’t complain about that! It allows me to slam into it from the flank as required, and then…” He paused as he realised he was getting caught up in all the action and excitement. “Well, I guess I’ll just focus on cutting it down as best as I can! For now, I guess we should just head out and find it, and then tear it down! I’m sure that between the two of us, we’ll do absolutely fine against it!”

Zenshu’s smile had split his face in response to the other player’s excitement, the feeling seeming to impact him as well. He couldn’t wait to get into the field and see what Aincrad had in store for them. As he carried on alongside the other player, carefully interjecting and answering her questions when needed, he found himself happy just to have someone else to talk to, someone else to engage with.

“I think this will be easy, with our two skills corresponding to one another!” Zenshu let out a laugh as he watched the other player moving alongside him. He wondered where she’d been, while Zenshu had been preparing himself to face the frontlines – she appeared to be well versed in the game, clearly carrying some experience. Yet she was still here, on the lower floors. He shook his head, deciding there was no point in asking.

Deciding that it would be best to be prepared for a fight, Zenshu swapped out the samue he normally wore for more common attire, donning the brooch that he had stored away for just such occasions. Almost casually, he called forth his small ninjato, carrying it in a relaxed grip at his side.

Switching Light Blue Samue for Arrowhead Brooch
Zenshu | Lv. 10 | HP: 200/200 | EN: 38/38 | DMG: 8 | ACC: 3 | LD: 2 | EVA: 1 | MIT: 12 | Regen: 2 | Risky: 1 DMG | Stealth Detect: +1

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The field boss had been easier to locate than Zenshu had expected – standing tall in the centre of an open grassland, essentially appearing to taunt and dare players to approach it. Giving one final beaming smile at the other player, glancing up at his HUD in order to confirm that the party was still in play, Zenshu rushed forward towards the boss.

He ducked underneath the first strike, rolling and drawing the blade in his hand in two small movements, before turning and slashing out at the giant plant-thing with a backhanded slash. The blade seemed to run parallel to his arm, the point barely jutting out beyond his elbow in the relaxed, yet firm grip.

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[1] Zenshu | Lv. 10 | HP: 200/200 | EN: 30/38 | DMG: 8 | ACC: 3 | LD: 2 | EVA: 1 | MIT: 12 | Regen: 2 | Risky: 1 DMG | Stealth Detect: +1
[0] Row | Health: 240 | Energy: 42 | Battle healing: 1% Max HP (2HP) | Regen 4% Max HP (9HP) | Mit: 14 | Ax Dmg: 4 | ACC 2 | Bleed I (24) | PARA I | Thorn II (18) LD: 5 | Stealth Detection: 5

Nepent Variant | HP: 146/200 | MIT: 10 | DMG: 25 | ACC: 1 |  EVA: 0
Plant Frenzy | On MD 9-10, the Nepent will strike all party members for 35 DMG.
Photosynthesis | On CD 9-12, the Nepent will restore 15 HP and gain 5 MIT until its next turn.
Weapon Lock | Only Sword Arts of Rank 2 or lower may be used against this boss.
Tier Lock | For the duration of the fight, all of the participants’ stats that scale with Tier are calculated as though they’re Tier 1. [DMG/MIT/BLEED enhancements etc.]

Round One
ID209765 | BD: 6+3=9 | <<ST-I vs. Nepent Variant>> | Hit: 8x8-10 = 54 DMG

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Word Count: 485