Zenshu

The giant bat exploded into thousands of shards, and almost as quickly as the entire fight had started – it was over. Zenshu took a moment to catch his breath, the sudden silence that always occurred after the hecticness of combat seeming to almost overwhelm his senses. He knew it was nothing more than the adrenaline leaving his system, returning his body to normal after being in a heightened state. Nevertheless, he couldn’t help but marvel at how it felt, oddly off putting and normal, all at the same time.

Glancing around, he wondered where to even start looking for the girl. The pathway continued inwards, bending around a corner slightly and out of sight. He wasn’t entirely sure how to look for the tracks of an NPC – if he even could – and with nothing else to go on, he simply decided to start following the pathway deeper into the cave.

“If it stays with this single, linear path, then I’m bound to come across her at some point! Assuming that she’s in here, that is…” He traced a hand along the wall as he went, keeping an eye out for any sign of the missing girl, or anything in the cave that would lead him towards her eventual rescue. “I’m sure her mother will be happy once I bring her home. Even if they are NPCs, she seemed really distraught.”

He peered ahead as he went, keeping a close eye for any more bats, or other creatures that might be lurking in the dark. He wasn’t going to be caught off guard by anything else, even if it meant slowing down his search a little bit. There’s no benefit to finding the girl, if all I do is attract every single creature in the caves to her location…better to be safe, and avoid confrontation entirely. Or defeat anything that comes near me as I go.

ID209764 | LD: 17+5=22 | Searching for Koko | Success

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Word Count: 315

Zenshu’d found the notice on the board by pure coincidence. He’d been glancing about for signs of any upcoming events, or quests, or anything that would help him. The request had been tucked aside, clearly added by a player – and relatively vague. It had given the description of a local tavern, a place he’d never heard of before, nor visited. Curiosity overtaking him, he’d decided to test the waters and see what the request was all about.

Entering the tavern, it was about what he’d expected – a small bar, with a limited clientele and a barkeep that looked straight out a fantasy novel. Zenshu gave a small bow of his head, smiling in return to the welcoming gesture from the barkeep, before making his way towards the lone individual who appeared to be here by themselves. Approaching the player in question, Zenshu gave a broad smile before speaking aloud.

“I hope I’m not walking up on the wrong person, but would you happen to be Row? The one who posted, requesting assistance – or rather, requesting a partner, or partners – in taking on the field boss of this floor?” Zenshu gave a slight bow before continuing, keeping his hands folding in front of him. “You may call me Zenshu. I noticed on the advertisement that you had stated you were a tank? I myself focus on a more damaged focus primary. Perhaps I’d be able to assist you, even though it’s only me?”

He waited patiently to see what the girl would say, wondering if he’d be turned away. He knew he didn’t look like much, the general haori and samue less than the flashy gear that many other players wore. But he also knew that appearance wasn’t everything in this game, and that sometimes surprises could be found in the most unexpected places.

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Word Count: 303

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He felt his blade slice across the creature’s body, causing a large dip in its own health bar, even as the wing of the creature slashed across Zenshu’s own face – causing another slight dip in his own health. He could see that the creature was close to being defeated, a few measly health points still standing between it and utter destruction.

Almost got it finished here! Just a few more quick strikes, and I’ll be done. Then I can go on looking for Koko…she must be around here somewhere, I hope. He dodged a few more minor attack attempts from the bat, before putting some distance between himself and it. He knew that the fight itself was almost over, and that he simply needed to get a single decent hit in to finish it off entirely, but he wasn’t willing to take any dangerous chances – even if it seemed like an easy victory here.

Setting his feet, he waited a breath before lunging forward, aiming for the centre of the bat. He hoped that his single strike would finish everything, and that he could then return to the search. He didn’t want to focus too long on fighting these creatures, until he was sure he’d found the missing girl.

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Zenshu | Lv. 10 | HP: 154/200 [+2 Regen] | EN: 30/38 | 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 Three
ID209763 | BD: 9 | <<Basic Attack vs. Giant Bat>> | Minor Critical Hit: 9+1 = 10 DMG | Giant Bat is defeated.

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Word Count: 209

The bat wasn’t where Zenshu had expected it to be. That was the first thought he’d had. Just as suddenly, he’d felt something slam into his back and pierce the side of his neck, his health bar suddenly depleting as he realised the creature had managed to shift around and attach to his side.

Reaching up and pulling the teeth out, he tossed the creature away, his free hand rising to check the wound before realising there was no point in doing so. Cursing himself, and the bat, he did the one thing that he could still do.

Fine, you get the first hit, but I’ll make sure to get the last! I’ve still got a girl to save, and you’re in my way of doing that! Rushing forwards, he pressed his attack against the bat, hoping to catch it in a flurry of blows as he pushed it further and further into the cave. The creature had no choice but to fall back under the overwhelming assault of Zenshu, and he worried for a moment that he would once again provide it the opportunity to slip under his guard.

Don’t hesitate, just keep going! Defeat it through sheer will, if you need to! He pushed aside the concern, knowing that there was only so much that he could do now anyways. Continuing forward, he tried to completely overwhelm the creature, hoping to end the fight as soon as possible.

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Zenshu | Lv. 10 | HP: 152/200 [+2 Regen] | EN: 29/38 | DMG: 9 (8+1) | LD: 5 | EVA: 1 | MIT: 12 | Regen: 2 | Risky: 1 DMG | Stealth Detect: +1

Giant Bat | HP: 3/75 | DMG: 35

Round Two
ID209762 | BD: 6 | <<ST-I vs. Giant Bat>> | Hit: 9*8 = 72 DMG 
ID209762 | MOB: 8-1=7 | <<Giant Bat vs. Zenshu>> | 35 DMG [Risky]

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Word Count: 240

The creature veered to the left as it approached, clearly trying to wrap around and slam into Zenshu from the side. He was prepared however, spinning on his heel and ducking underneath. He lashed out with his blade, but barely missed the creature as it shifted upwards on an unseen draft.

This will be a bit more difficult than I expected, perhaps. At least I can see the thing, though… He wondered at his pure luck in taking the Night Vision upgrade when he’d been choosing his most recent level up perks. It had been pure coincidence, but was coming in handy here. The things you can gain, without knowing…

He turned his attention back to the fight as the bat – he could see it clearly now, this close up – came whirling towards him again. The mouth opened to reveal a set of fangs, reminding Zenshu of the vampires in folklore. He doubted that this thing would be transforming into a humanoid any time soon. That would be far too unlikely, at least on this floor of the world.

Ducking again, he rolled slightly to his right before slashing upwards and towards where the path of the bat had been taking his opponent, hoping to land a strike as it sailed by him.

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Zenshu | Lv. 10 | HP: 175/200 | 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
ID209761 | BD: 4 | <<ST-I vs. Giant Bat>> | Miss [-2 EN]
ID209761 | MOB: 10 | <<Giant Bat vs. Zenshu>> | Major Critical Hit: 35+2 DMG [Risky]

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Word Count: 213

The entrance was about what Zenshu had expected – a dark hole within the wall of the mountain. He blinked, activating his newest searching mod before taking a single step closer to the entrance. The mod allowed him to see within the darkness almost as if there was a dim light, casting about and allowing the general shapes and features to be visible where they were once entirely obscured.

Within the cavern, he could see the movement of numerous flying creatures – likely birds, or bats of some sort – all moving about in response to his arrival. Zenshu knew that he’d likely have to fight them off in order to make his way through the cave, something that he had expected from the moment monsters had been mentioned.

“At least it’s only some measly birds, or bats…it could be a lot worse! Imagine having to fight some sort of giant, or wormlike creature…that would be truly difficult. This is just some lousy bats!” He grinned to himself as he summoned and drew his ninjato, before stepping into the cave itself. He walked forward, readying himself for the assault he knew was likely to come, but knowing that he couldn’t wait at the edge forever. “I’m not going to find that missing girl by waiting outside all day. Only thing to do is head in, and search the cave for her! Then I’ll get her reunited with her mother!”

His words echoed softly against the cavern walls, bouncing back towards his ears in an almost indistinguishable way. It was still unnerving, even though he knew what was happening. His eyes gazed about, catching sight of one of the flying creatures changing direction and heading for Zenshu.

“Alright, let’s get this started then. You’re up first, I guess!” He shifted his weight slightly in preparation to meet the creature, waiting as it crossed the distance towards him. He doubted the fight would take very long, but he wasn’t going to take it lightly either – if he’d learnt anything in his time in Aincrad, it was that even the simplest of fights could be deadly if you got complacent.

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Word Count: 354

The fields beyond the main town were scattered with monsters, and the few players who still found themselves struggling to level themselves up beyond the lowest of levels. Players similar to himself. He smiled as he considered it – although many had moved on, there were still some to be found here in the lower levels, working to catch up to the others, trying desperately to become more engaged, more giving to those who had rushed to the front to fight.

“We’re all going to get there, some day. It just takes us a bit of time, but you’ll see…we’ll be there, beside you, soon enough.” He gave a nod to the few bodies he could see out in the open areas, before moving on. He doubted any had even taken notice of him, yet it felt wrong not to acknowledge their presence, their fight.

The walk towards the destination he’d been presented was further than Zenshu had expected it to be – he could see the mountain in the distance, but the cave itself was still hidden from view. He kept his eyes out for any danger as he went, wanting to avoid conflict before he arrived at the cave if he could. He knew he’d be fighting soon enough, but there was no reason to tire himself out needlessly.

“Better to be refreshed, as much as possible, for when it actually counts.” He spoke aloud to himself even as he continued looking around. His feet crunched on the gravel beneath his boots. It was nice to get out of the settlement a bit, to see the natural world – or the natural, digital world – that Aincrad had to offer. Even if it was fake, there was still something calming about it.

“Perhaps we’ve been here for far too long already…” Zenshu shook his head as he once again considered how normal all of this was quickly becoming. As if this was now their reality, rather than the world beyond the game. He knew he couldn’t allow that to become true, else escape would become that much more difficult. “When you spend this much time in something, though, it’s not a surprise that you get so used to it…”

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Word Count: 367

“R-really? Thank you! Thank you so much, you have no idea how grateful I am,” The seemed almost genuinely surprised that Zenshu was willing to help her, her facial expressions shifting from sadness and concern to surprised joy almost immediately. He wondered how many times the program had run through this simulation, before deciding he would just compliment it on the abilities to display so perfectly. “Your e-efforts won't go to waste, I swear! I'll have something for you when you get back, I-I promise!”

“I’ll just be happy to be able to get her home safely. Although, I’m sure the rewards will be more than enough, no matter what they are!” He added the last part just in case, not wanting to miss out on something by the system somehow assuming that he was turning down the rewards. He’d never heard of that occurring, but with an artificial intelligence running everything one could never be too careful.

Once he’d assured the woman enough, Zenshu made his way towards the exit of the settlement. He had directions, he had a purpose, and he was certain that he’d be able to do something to try and find the girl. He didn’t bother glancing back, sure that the NPC mother was already moving on to the next player who was eligible to start the quest.

“Sometimes this system really nails the reality, but with all things computerised…well, it has its limitations too. I guess this is just one of those things it can’t overcome…” He shook his head, smiling in response. He had to admit that Cardinal was impressive in many means – it was able to react to the players, to change the game, the NPCs, even the very base systems. It did, however, still have limitations – and things like quest givers was one of those. No matter how real everything seemed, there was always something here to remind them that they were, in fact, still trapped within a game. A game with no escape, except fighting on. “And so we continue to fight, because that’s the only option we have…”

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Word Count: 349

“She-- she was playing in one of the caverns in the mountains with her friend. I-I told her not to go but she didn't listen to me!” The woman continued her story, Zenshu nodding as she spoke. He didn’t want to interrupt her, partially due to his mannerisms but also because he felt like he may miss key details if he did so. Yet a part of him was becoming impatient, he’d gained a bit of information through her continued vocalisation of the situation, but not where the child had disappeared to, exactly.

“Do you happen to know where abouts she was last seen? Perhaps an area that she normally likes to play, or someone having spotted her? It could really help with finding her, making it much easier to track.” He wasn’t even sure if in her condition she’d hear his prompts, let alone respond to them. Still, without asking, there was no answer. The woman seemed to continue talking, and for a time Zenshu wondered if his basic question would be ignored, after all.

“Her friend came back to me just this moment a-and said that they were attacked by monsters! T-the beast is still in there with her, please, I don't know how long my Koko can last in a place like that!” Zenshu’s head snapped up at the mention of monsters, and the friend having returned. Finally, he was getting somewhere with his investigation – somewhere that would help him complete the quest, at least.

“Monsters? And you said…Koko’s?...friend just returned. Did she say where exactly they were?” He listened as the woman provided him further insight into the situation, describing the area, and what the friend had informed the distraught mother. Finally, with everything he needed, he gave the woman a soft smile. “I’ll take a look and see if I can bring her back safely for you. It shouldn’t take too long, but don’t fret too much if I’m not immediately back!”

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Word Count: 327

Urbus was, as usual, filled with the movements of NPCs. Zenshu wondered at the limited quantity of players – there were some to see, here and there, but far fewer than he’d have expected for the time of day. His eyes roamed the area, taking in the people around him. He recognised a few players, giving smiles, nods, and even a few passed words of greeting before moving on. He had known that there’d been a movement of players towards the front lines, towards where the action was. It was still surprising to see how few could be found on the lower floors now, how barren many of them felt.

“I should be seeing this as a good thing, though. It means everyone’s making headway towards our final goal! Which is what we want, after all…that’s how we’re going to get free of this place!” His eyes passed over the area once more, taking in the general feel, the almost hollow, empty essence that seemed to surround him. “Still, for a main settlement, this place feels…cold, lonely.”

“At least I don’t need to fight the crowds here, though!” His joyous expression returned as he continued talking to himself, moving through the streets with relative ease. He’d had a single purpose in attending the floor, and he hoped that the shop wasn’t empty or closed yet.

“Pl-please…I’ve been trying to find someone to help me all day. My child—” Zenshu’s head turned slowly to look at a middle aged woman, tears pouring down her face as she seemed to plead with Zenshu’s form, as if unaware that until a brief moment ago he’d been entirely unaware of her presence at all.

“Child? Did you say something about your child? Have they been kidnapped, or hurt?” He’d stopped moving as he answered the woman, wondering what exactly she was expecting him to do – although not at all concerned with the fact that he had somehow just pulled himself into a quest through pure accident. He waited patiently as the woman continued speaking, explaining her dilemma to him through a continuous pouring of tears, broken words, and jumbled confusion that he had to work to decipher.

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Word Count: 363

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Zenshu settled in and watched as the group chatted among one another, asking probing questions that he himself would’ve considered far beyond rude to enquiry about in this game. Still, they seemed happy enough, content to share their stories, their personal sides. So who was he to judge?

As the three continued towards completing their goal, Zenshu let his eyes drift across the fields, spotting a collection of nearby wolves. He could feel the itch, the desire to engage them. For a split second he considered it, before deciding it would be better not to antagonise anything with the others still hard at work.

“I’ve heard that the tail end of this quest is near the sea of this floor!” Zenshu caught the tail end of the question that Soren had posed, entertaining an answer of his own. “I was actually on my way there when we all met up. I wonder if they have you on a ship, or if it just so happens to take place near the docks…either way, you’re near the water for a time! I bet it has an absolutely wonderful view! Maybe we should all go there one of these days?”

He paused in thought for a second, before adding to his question. “Maybe we can all do the third quest together, if you’re up for it?”

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Word Count: 223

Are you ready for your challenge? The words rang in his head, echoing as if bouncing off the walls of a cave. Zenshu didn’t feel ready, in any way or form. Yet he’d made it all the way here, to this room, and now stood before the goddess Athena herself – and she was asking if he was ready. Closing his eyes, he tried to mentally shake away the doubt, the worry, the concern that he wouldn’t be good enough.

“I do not know if I am ready, or not. I don’t believe myself to be an extremely talented, or capable tailor in any way – in fact, I would say that I have only just started down my path towards expertise in the art of crafting clothing. But I am willing to risk, and accept, your judgement on my abilities, for whatever that is worth.”

The words had left Zenshu’s mouth before he was even entirely aware of what he was saying – or had wanted to say. He bowed deeply at the end of his sentence, before righting himself and placing his hands in front, folding them in a calming way. He waited patiently for the response, wondering if he’d be turned away on the spot. He couldn’t help but expect it, any such admission in the real world would likely get you turned down for the position you were attempting to receive – at least in the experiences he’d had.

“I’m sure that you are far more capable than you think you are, mortal. Many who come here profess to me about their abilities, their strengths, what they have mastered. Few come before me and profess their weaknesses – their ineptitudes.” The goddess almost seemed to be smirking as she spoke, as if amused by what Zenshu had said. Yet, as he glanced on, he saw an almost pleased look in her eye, as if she was truly admiring his words, his courage behind them. “I much prefer those who know they can still improve, who believe they have not yet mastered their craft – those are the ones who always prove most worthwhile. You, from what I have already seen, seem to be one of those.”

She suddenly rose from her seated position, moving across to the work area beyond, and waving a hand for Zenshu to follow. He carefully strode across the floor towards the work area, curiosity over what his challenge would be driving him forwards. He glanced about the area as he went, taking in the few decorative pieces that furnished the room, but his attention was always drawn back to the tools that were on display.

As he stopped at the edge of the room, Athena waved a hand towards the tools. “Your challenge is truly quite simply. I wish you to create me a piece that I have never seen before, and that I could not imagine. Something that is wholly new, that I would never have had the chance to experience, or wear, had you not brought it to life before me.”

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Word Count: 506

The interior of the room was far simpler than Zenshu had expected it to be. A lounge chair, a small tea table – or eatery table, he wasn’t entirely sure which is was – as well as a few cushions cast about were strewn between a collection of pillars that divided an obvious resting area. On the opposite side of the room – directly across from where Zenshu had entered, and through the seating area itself – was an area that was clearly set up with the concept of tailoring in mind.

He could clearly see the spinning wheels, the racks for hanging and stretching, as well as the numerous mannequins whose entire purpose was simply to display the completed pieces. His eyes ranged over the pieces, admiring their clear eloquence and lavish designs, as well as their fundamental capabilities. He knew that although they appeared to be display pieces in their beauty, they were also well crafted in order to be useful in the trade.

“You appear to be admiring my tools, more so than myself.” The voice came from the cushions in the central area, and Zenshu felt himself jump slightly in response. He’d not even noticed the woman seated in the main area, his eyes locating and viewing the tools themselves almost immediately.

Bowing deeply, he gave a heartfelt apology. “I meant no disrespect, it’s simply that I’ve never seen such an elegant, beautiful and eye-catching collection of tools before. I’ve always worked with what was available, which…well, it doesn’t compare in any category of what you have here…”

He paused for a brief moment, before remembering that he hadn’t introduced himself yet. “My name is Zenshu, it is a pleasure to meet you!”

The goddess seemed relatively amused at his attempt at politeness – or perhaps it was his focus on the workshop itself. Either way, he felt that he’d made at least an interesting first impression for the goddess. Or, at least, he hoped that he had. He truly had no way of knowing either way, unless she came out and said so – or said something that directed him towards that understanding. Zenshu waited patiently, trying to determine his standing. He knew that first impressions were key towards success in many avenues of life. This was likely one of those avenues, and he’d hoped to make a good first impression – as he wasn’t entirely sure that his skills were up to the task of proving himself in whatever task was going to be appointed to him.

“It is a pleasure to meet you as well, mortal. My name is Athena, and I am the goddess who will judge your abilities in the craft of tailoring. Are you ready for your challenge?”

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Word Count: 451

The climb up the mountain had been far easier than Zenshu had anticipated. He’d only been hiking in the mountains at home a few times, and he’d never gone particularly high in any of them, but it was far more tedious than he’d expected it to be. The same could not be said for hiking up mountains in Sword Art Online. The activity itself was definitely time consuming, but the effort put into it was…almost disappointingly limited.

If there’s one thing about this world, sometimes it makes things almost too easy. It sure can be enveloping, bringing you to forget that you’re in a virtual world and not a real world, but sometimes it does things like this, which remind you that you really aren’t in the real world. Then again…I doubt it would be beneficial to have it too realistic, because then some people wouldn’t play it.

They reached the gates to the city – if it could even be called a city – only a couple hours after they had begun the climb itself. Zenshu was surprised, looking back down the way they had come. He had certainly expected it to be a far more trying hike, and far more time consuming, when he had first viewed the mountain from their travels across the open grasses.

“Beautiful, isn’t it?” The Satyr stepped up beside Zenshu, staring up at the gates of the city. Zenshu’s gaze was torn from the mountain’s base, where he’d originally been looking, as he glanced over at the gates. He doubted that the Satyr had even noticed his lack of attention, nor cared much about how he would actually respond to the question.

“Quite…so is Athena in there?” Before he could even complete the question, the Satyr had moved to the gates, pushing them open gently and waving Zenshu inside. He passed through, eyeing the large courtyard beyond. He was surprised to find it empty – not a single other soul in the area. “There’s no one here.”

“Well, of course, Athena will be in her own personal area. We’ll – You will meet her there. Come! She’s likely waiting for you now.” Almost in an excited stated, the Satyr led Zenshu onwards, guiding him down a collection of pathways and hallways through what was likely the main house of the gods that he was intruding upon. The entire situation felt wrong to Zenshu somehow, as if he was entering a private space that he had no right to be in.

After a dizzying number of twists and turns, Gruukr stopped before a single doorway, a large smile on their face as they waited for Zenshu to catch up to them. Pausing at their side, Zenshu cast his eyes over the door, before raising and eyebrow at his guide.

“This is it, the end of our guide together. I wish you all the best, but I think you’ll do just fine!” The excitement in the Satyr’s voice was obvious, but the smile on the other’s face was genuine. Zenshu took a moment to give a deep bow, before placing his hand on the door. He gave a soft push, stepping inwards as the door swung open.

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Word Count: 528

The base of the mountain loomed before them, the tip of the peak forcing Zenshu’s head all the way back just to see it. Around them roamed large creatures that Gruukr had described as the guardians of the mountain city, ferocious beings that would have torn him asunder if not for the grace and protection that the goddess had provided him in order to reach Olympus.

He was happy that he didn’t need to be concerned about them, just being near the mountain itself had made him feel small and insignificant. He couldn’t imagine having to fight powerful foes under the looming shadows here, the difficult only made harder by the feeling of the towering mountain dwarfing him.

A shiver down his back made him shake in response to the thought, and Zenshu turned his attention back to the path before them. It wound its way up the side of the mountain, snaking back and forth before disappearing behind a collection of trees a little ways up the base. Gruukr had explained they would need to pass through the forest, and into the rocky terrain beyond, before they reached the city itself.

“Hey, Gruukr. Do you know if I’ll be meeting Athena herself, or will there be a proxy?” Zenshu seemed to catch the guide off guard with his question. He could see the Satyr pause and consider his question before responding, as if unaware of what he was actually asking, or needing to process the question in depth before being able to provide an answer.

“You’ll be meeting with Athena directly. It should be just you and the goddess alone, for the trial. At least, that’s how it’s always been in the past.” Content with the answer, Zenshu gave a nod, before providing his thanks. Once again Gruukr seemed surprised by his kind words, as if it was extremely out of the ordinary.

Just how badly are the other players treating these guides, that a simple word of thanks can be considered so nice? I need to remember not to ever become like that. He felt himself frowning in response to the thoughts, his eyes gazing up at the peak of the mountain. He wanted to make sure he remained himself, no matter what this game threw at him – and that included the behaviours and actions that he had been taught to include in his everyday life. It worried him that so many other players appeared to have forgotten, or never been taught, these basic mannerisms. Perhaps it’s all the foreign, modern influences. Perhaps father truly was right about the negative effect it was having on our culture, on our people…Perhaps I didn’t listen to his teachings well enough to understand…

He wasn’t sure if that was entirely accurate, he’d taken most of his parents’ teachings to heart. Although he may not have been perfect about every minute detail, Zenshu felt like he had taken the overall ideologies and implemented them in his life. Still…he felt as though he needed to escape this world, and make things clearer between himself and his parents.

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Word Count: 514

Once again, the pair fell into silence as they continued along the pathway. Zenshu could see the mountain slowly rising into the sky in the distance. He figured there was still some distance to cover before they’d even reach the base of the mountain, and then the climb itself. He wondered if he would even make it home before dark with how far they had to go.

“Say, you’ve led quite a few people to these meetings, right? Do you happen to know anything about the meeting with Athena? I know that the message hinted that it would be very specific towards, well, the individual…but do you know what previous tests have been like?” Zenshu figured he’d not get an answer to his question – he truly doubted that the Satyr would know, or be willing to share it with Zenshu. It would likely give him an unfair advantage if they did so, which likely wouldn’t be allowed by Cardinal.

“I’ve never actually seen any of the tests myself. We guides are not allowed to remain in order to watch the trials being completed…” It was exactly as Zenshu had expected. He felt a slight tinge of disappointment, but not surprise at the admission. He was just about to thank the guide for at least being honest, when they suddenly continued speaking. “But…a few of the players have told me about it, after the event. Some stated that they were required to create a piece worthy of being worn by a goddess, or review created pieces and point of flaws, or perfections, or the styling used…or any number of other things that I will admit I didn’t entirely understand.”

“Thank you, that’s truly insightful. I wonder…why I was summoned. I doubt that I could make anything that a goddess would be impressed with enough to wear themselves. I could maybe view a piece and pick out the flaws or perfections, or maybe even the styling, although I think even that would test me truly…” The Satyr seemed to watch him from the side of its eye, as if considering his words before responding. Zenshu smiled, shrugging slightly as he answered the unspoken words of his guide. “No matter, it’s meant to be a test. And if I do fail, then I guess it just means I need to keep working hard in order to better myself. Perhaps, perhaps if I’m required to I could return again and enjoy your company as you once again guide me back to the mountain. I would enjoy that.”

The Satyr suddenly turned away, although not before Zenshu spotted a tinge of colour on the creature’s face. He was left stunned for a brief moment before his assumptions were confirmed, the words carrying a tone of embarrassment. “I am…pleased to hear that you enjoy my company that much. But I would be more than happy if you did not need to return. I do hope that you succeed on your test, if only because…well, because you’ve been so kind. I feel like of any of the players whom I’ve guided to the mountain, you deserve the rewards of the goddess the most…”

Zenshu felt himself blush in response. Sure, the Satyr was simply an artificial intelligence creation responding to his kindness in kind, but it still felt warming to hear the words. He gave a slight bow of his head, unable to bring his words of thanks aloud this time as he fought back the flushing that was overtaking him.

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Word Count: 584

“I truly do wish that I could do something to help you. I don’t just say that meaninglessly. I doubt there’s really anything I could do though…” Zenshu spoke up again after a few moments, trying to convey his desires in his words. He knew that they were hollow, without anything more than empathy to fill them. Still, he felt that he needed to at least say something.

“Even just your words are comforting enough. I thank you for being so sincere in them, I…well, it’s not important, but I do appreciate your kindness.” The Satyr seemed to pause in thought as they continued along the path, considering whether they wanted to say anything else. Zenshu waited, head cocked, to see what more was being held on the tip of the tongue. “Not many show me such kindness. It is truly meaningful, to me at least.”

The Satyr fell silent after that, and Zenshu allowed the silence to persist. He wondered at the final comment – did the Satyr remember the other players they had led to the mountain? Or was this simply a part of its programming adjusting to Zenshu’s welcoming attitude.

He walked in silence for a while as he considered the possibilities. He felt his mouth open and snap shut a few times as he tried to bring his question aloud, but wasn’t entirely sure how to properly word it. “Hey, Gruukr, do you remember the other players that you led to the mountain? The other players who were requested to visit Mount Olympus?”

The Satyr turned to look at Zenshu again, this time a questioning look on its face. It seemed interested in Zenshu’s own interest, as if it was out of the ordinary. When the Satyr did begin speaking, it was with hesitation, as if it was unsure. “I do…I’ve led a few to the mountain before, before yourself…I remember each of them. Some of them were far less welcoming, far less…nice…than you yourself. Not to say that they were all unwelcoming, or rude, or…well…they weren’t nearly as nice as you.”

Zenshu smiled, bowing his head slightly at the compliment. He was surprised that the NPC had memories of previous events – it brought everything into question about how he’d been viewing the NPCs previously. It was quite possible that this specific NPC was unique, different from the others that they as players often encountered. Still, he wasn’t sure whether that meant that this specific artificial being was allowed to keep its memories for a better connection with players, or if this was common place and that every NPC remembered.

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Word Count: 433

“Why don’t you live out your dreams of becoming a warrior?” Zenshu’s question seemed to ring on the air, echoing slightly in his own ears. The silence had been building, and with it an uncomfortable feeling in the air around them. He hadn’t meant to be entirely direct with it, but as the words came out he realised there was nothing he could do to take it back. He hurried to add on to his question, hoping to at least reduce the disrespect it had conveyed. “I happened to hear you mention that you’d always wanted to be one, so I was just curious as to what was stopping you. You seem like you’d be quiet a capable fighter.”

The Satyr actually laughed in response, which was not the reaction Zenshu had expected. Anger, annoyance, even outright dismissal, but not laughter. It took a few moments for the other to calm down enough in order to be able to answer the query. Zenshu waited patiently, curious as to if he would receive any sort of response to his question at all.

“Me? A warrior? Ha! No, no. That would never be allowed. I come from a tribe that has always served the gods and goddesses in the mountain. Perhaps if I’d been born to another tribe, it would’ve been possible. But not as I am. We Satyrs are destined…well, to serve. My brothers were lucky, they can at least serve as temple guards. But I’m stuck guiding mortals to the gods and goddesses forever.” The tone rang with a touch of sadness, covered over by attempted humour. Zenshu opened his mouth to argue with the Satyr, before slowly closing it again. He wasn’t quite sure what he could say. That they should do what they should do what they wanted? That they could be a warrior if they so desired? That it was only a matter of breaking free?

Shaking his head, he instead said the only thing that he could. “I wish I could help you.”

The Satyr seemed to twist around in surprise, their eyes going wide as they looked at Zenshu. He wasn’t entirely sure, as it was hard to read the other’s facial expressions sometimes, but he thought they were shocked at his confession.

“Why?” The single word response was filled with emotion – to Zenshu it sounded like a mixture of surprise, anger, and sorrow. As if the creature couldn’t believe that someone would display empathy towards it.

“Because everyone should be allowed to live their dreams. No one should be forced down a specific path, tied down and unable to escape. I believe that if you really want to do something, you should be able to do it. And it…well, it saddens me to hear that you can’t do that.” His mind flashed images of his own life before his eyes. He’d never really regretted any of the things his parents had forced upon him. Sure, some of it he’d have preferred not to do, in favour of other activities, but he’d never so much as felt a complaint. Yet now, as he spoke to the Satyr, he wondered if he shouldn’t have felt some sort of negativity towards it.

“You’re an odd individual, you know that?” The Satyr smiled at him before turning back around to continue leading the way towards the mountain. Zenshu quickly fell into step beside his guide, smiling in response to the comment. He knew quite well that many considered him odd, for many different reasons. He was just happy that he was able to make someone else feel joy, if only for the moment. Even if it was just a creature created in a computer generated system.

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Word Count: 618

They continued in silence for a while, the only sounds that reached Zenshu’s ears were the soft wind, the crunch of the gravel beneath their feet, and the distance sounds of combat from out in the fields. His attention had been continuously drawn to the few players he could see in the wildlands, eyeing them up as best as he could. Not that he’d be able to recognise them, between the distance and the lack of acquaintances, he had little to go on to try and place any sort of name to the figures. Still, he made mental notes of their general appearance – at least what he could see of it – in case he ran into them at a later time.

“One day I’ll join them.” He’d spoken aloud without even realising, but as he turned back to his guide, he could see the Satyr staring at him. The creature had a bit of a curious look on its face, and Zenshu could see a question bubbling on its tongue.

“You’re going to join the gods one day? That’s a very…ambitious goal. But…well, I don’t think it’s all that possible. At least, I’ve never heard of it happening.” The Satyr cocked its head at Zenshu as it finished speaking, as if trying to imagine him joining the gods and goddesses atop the mountain of Olympus. He couldn’t help but giggle slightly in response, before answering the Satyr’s question in earnest.

“Actually I meant the frontline fighters, of my own people. The ones who are working to clear the many floors of this floating castle, this world. I wish to one day join them, and help them push the frontlines ever upwards.” He glanced up towards the sky, imagining himself on the frontlines, working to clear away the floors above and ahead, helping to bring everyone one step closer to clearing the game itself. He knew it was still a ways away, but his determination was strong. Besides, he had a promise to keep. A promise that he swore he’d never give up on. He owed it to everyone.

“That is certainly a very noble goal. I do hope that you one day achieve it.” The Satyr turned its attention back to the road, continuing to lead them across the open plains. Silence fell over the two for a time, before Zenshu heard her whisper, almost as though to herself. “I wish I could’ve taken the path of a warrior. To gain honour, and glory. That would be the life…”

He’d almost stopped in his tracks at hearing the words, the longing behind them. For the first time he wondered if this guide was doing so out of its own free will, or if it had always been destined to guide travellers to the mountain, to meet the gods. Left to be nothing more than an escort.

‘Well, of course that’s its purpose. It is a game after all, and this thing is nothing more than a collection of code brought to life as a creature within the game. I doubt very much that it actually has wishes, desires, dreams, of its own…I think… But as he considered the possibility, he wasn’t so sure. He felt his brow furrow as he considered that perhaps, just maybe, there was sentience to the NPCs in this game. In all of his encounters, he’d never considered the possible humanity of the NPCs. They’d always just been figures to fill the otherwise empty spaces, things to interact with for a purpose. The concept of humanity, of actual sentience, had never occurred to Zenshu before. But now that it had, he was having trouble pushing the concept away.

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Word Count: 612

“Am I the one…? Oh, yes! Yes I am!” Zenshu turned to find himself staring at what appeared to be a half man, half animal. The creature seemed to huff in response, apparently taking Zenshu’s confusion as a sign of disrespect, or disgust at the sight of it. Bowing deeply, Zenshu quickly added to his response. “My sincerest apologies, I did not expect to be summoned by one such as yourself. In fact, from my interpretation of the message I had received, I had expected to make my way to the mountain unguided…”

He stood up again, noticing that the expression on the other’s face had changed, if only slightly. Determined to make a better impression, Zenshu gave a slight bow again. “I have failed to introduce myself. My name is Zenshu, and this is my companion Kagayaku hoshi. It is a pleasure to meet you.”

The creature seemed stunned at the sudden introduction, and remained silent for a moment, before reluctantly speaking. “I am Gruukr. I’m here to guide you to the mountain, and the meeting with Athena. Come this way, please.”

Without any further introduction, nor waiting for a response from Zenshu, the creature – Gruukr – simply turned and began walking down the main street towards the walls of the large city. Not wanting to be left behind, nor wanting to cause any further disrespect – intentional or otherwise – to the guide, Zenshu hurried after them.

“I do not mean to be rude, but I’ve not seen one of your kind before, and therefore know very little about you…you mentioned that you are Gruukr…is that your name, or your species?” His words were carefully spoken, and the smile on his face remained stagnant as he awaited the response. He wasn’t sure if he was overstepping any sort of boundaries, but his curiosity was getting the better of him. He was desperately trying to remember anything of the mythology of the European cultures – as this entire area was clearly built off of – but was coming up blank on what was before him.

“Gruukr is my name. And not that it matters to you, but I’m a Satyr. We’re a…well, a hybrid folk, of sorts. We serve the gods and goddesses of this land.” The words carried an almost indignant air to them, as if there was something hurtful in admitting them. Zenshu was unsure what to make of it, and felt himself fall silent for a moment as he pondered it.

“Well then, Gruukr, it is a pleasure to meet you. I want to say thank you for guiding me to the mountain. I am truly honoured that you have taken the time to do something so kind for me.” He saw the flash of confusion on the other’s face as his words reached it, as if it couldn’t believe what he was saying. Content to wait for the other to speak up, Zenshu carried on in silence for a time.

The Satyr, Gruukr, led them out into the wilds beyond the city itself. Where the city had been overwhelmingly busy, the fields beyond reminded Zenshu of the more peaceful lower floors that he had spent his days in until now. Although lush with tall grasses, Zenshu could see for quite a distance, the openness almost beautiful in a way.

He could see, in the far distance other players fighting with the local creatures, likely trying to level themselves up in an attempt to reach the higher floors. As he watched, he imagined himself out there one day soon, grinding his way towards the frontlines. He knew that he was quickly making progress, and that he would one day be able to stand at the forefront in their fight for freedom.

Shaking his head, he forced his focus back on the present, glancing at Gruukr out of the side of his eye. The Satyr had been silent since they’d left the city, and Zenshu was still trying to figure out if he’d somehow upset his guide, or if the Satyr was simply surprised as his kindness.

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Word Count: 675

The light slowly dissipated, leaving Zenshu blinking on the pad of the seventeenth floor’s main courtyard. The city around him was bustling – almost overwhelmingly so compared to the emptiness that he had just left behind. Around him, vendors hawked their wares, their cries echoing into the early morning air. He could see collections of NPCs, as well as players, moving throughout the busy streets in an attempt to complete whatever it was that they needed to do for the day, or moment.

For a time, he simply stood and stared. He’d had enough sense to move off the teleporter pad itself, but the overwhelming busy presence of the area around him had been, well, overpowering. For far too long he’d been in quiet areas, left behind in the Town of Beginnings as others moved on, and then having found a temporary home in the shop that he had opened on the tenth floor. He’d kept himself to the lower floors, avoiding any of the higher ones with the belief that he wasn’t ready yet. That decision had kept him from interacting with any of the more popular, and populated, areas of Aincrad.

“This is what I’ve been missing out on, then.” The words were little more than a softly spoken whisper on the air, lost to the liveliness of the world around him. At his feet, he could feel Kagayaku shuffle closer for comfort, likely uncomfortable with the city life. Breathing a sigh of relief, Zenshu stepped forward, forcing the fox to follow him as he made his way through the city.

He had to admit, it felt good to be surrounded by people once more. The quietness of the lower floors had grown on him, to the point that he’d enjoyed it in a sense. But he had always enjoyed the company of others – even in the most minimalistic sense. Here, he’d found a return to that connection that he’d slowly been losing.

He’d greeted the many players that he’d passed, a few taking a moment or two to speak with him, often times wondering if he’d had any information to provide. Although he’d had little to offer, he’d been able to promote his tailor shop – which a few had taken interest in. He’d promised them that he’d be around later on in the evening, if they’d wanted to drop by, and provided directions on how to find it.

“I’ve only recently opened, so my selection is a bit limited right now…but if you want to place an order, I can definitely have something sewn up and ready to go in a small amount of time for you!” Most had taken interest in his offer, likely curious to see what he could provide them with for services. The encounters had only instilled his desire to find the point behind the message he’d received, to see if he really could obtain something of value from this quest.

“Even if it turns out to be nothing, at least I’ve made some good marketing attempts here. They do say word of mouth is the best way to promote your business…so even if those I spoke to today don’t show up, maybe someone they mention it to will!” He was truly excited at the prospect for the first time, seeing a growing opportunity for his small start up to succeed. He was just taking in a breath of relief, and content, when a voice behind him spoke out.

“Are you the one whom has been summoned to Mount Olympus?”

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Word Count: 586

He’d been doing little more than lazing around in the shop, playing with Kagay when the message had come in. He’d spent the morning in the shop in order to relax, caring to the storefront rather than working on any further creations. His eyes glanced over the pieces on display, taking in the few that he’d managed to make in his small amount of time as a tailor. He could still feel a modicum of pride looking at them, the accomplishments that they signified – yet there were imperfections that he could see, as well. Things that didn’t appear right to him, and that obviously stood out as flaws within the entire design.

“That’s why this message makes no sense, Kagay. I’m being summoned to the mountain of Olympus by…Zeus? Isn’t that some sort of deity?... In order to show that I’m skilled as a crafter.” He waved a hand towards the displayed items, an almost sad smile upon his face as he looked at the small fox. “I’m barely skilled enough to create these…how am I expected to show my skills to what are essentially deities? I doubt they’d be interested in anything that I can make…”

His words drifted off as he glanced again around the room. He had to admit the pieces were display worthy, even with their minor blemishes. He knew that most wouldn’t even notice the issues that his eyes caught, and that the majority of his criticism was likely normal for crafters. Still, something held him back from leaping at the opportunity. He felt almost like an imposter, considering accepting the invitation.

“What do you think, Kagay?” Zenshu turned his gaze back to the fox, settled on the counter with its head on its forepaws. The fox blinked twice, slowly, before giving a small yip in response. “You’re right…I should at least accept the invitation and see what they have to offer. It would be rude to do anything less than that, wouldn’t it?”

His decision made, Zenshu began to close up the shop, collecting the few pieces he’d left laying around and placing them away in their designated storage space within the back rooms. He took a few moments to collect a few things to nibble on – for himself and Kagayaku both – before making his way out of the shop. Closing the doors behind him, he turned towards the central area of the settlement. Around him, the eerie quiet that hovered over the area, perpetually, creeped up on them. Zenshu had long ago gotten used to the feeling, but he could feel as Kagayaku pressed himself closer in response.

“There’s nothing to be afraid of, Kagay. I know this city isn’t necessarily the most welcoming, but…nothing here will hurt you. I’ve been here for some time, and no ghosts have jumped out to spook me. At least, not yet!” He giggled as the fox glanced up at him, the look almost one of annoyance or aggravation. In a huff, it took a few steps ahead of Zenshu, just enough that it made its point, but close enough that it could retreat to safety should anything appear around them.

The walk to the teleporter was a short one, and as Zenshu stepped up onto it, Kagay pressed herself close to Zenshu in order to ensure their connection for the transportation. One final glance around, before Zenshu spoke the activation word for the teleporter, calling out the name of their destination. “Athenaia!”

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Word Count: 576

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He'd been busy as of late. Between meeting new people, and heading out to find a familiar, Zenshu hadn't had time recently to focus on his work - and because of that, he'd wondered if his business would suffer. He doubted that would be the case, but even still he wanted to ensure that he didn't neglect it for too long.

Returning to his place behind the work table, he pulled forth the materials he'd gathered and set to work on his newest creations. He hoped that sooner or later his skill would reach a point where he could begin being truly pleased with what he had created, rather than the simply acceptable pieces he'd been making.