Zenshu

His mind racing as he realised the opportunity that he had landed upon, Zenshu tried to remember reading about how to start a profession within the game. He knew that it was likely a quest – it was almost always a quest in games like this, which had you introduced to the profession itself. He was sure that at some point he’d seen something regarding just such a thing.

Pulling up his menu, Zenshu combed through the help files, before switching over to his available quests. He spotted it almost immediately, blinking before him. Reading over the available options, he located the exact quest he was looking for, before hitting the notifications to start the quest.

Smiling to himself as he made his way along the streets of the Town, Zenshu couldn’t believe his own luck. Had he been only a moment or two earlier or later, he might have entirely missed out on the fact that there was such a need in the game – something he found rather peculiar, all things considered.

“Well, regardless of the reason, I can thank the ancestors for providing me this opportunity. I’ll have to make doubly sure to make this a success, now! But if there’s demand, and nothing to fill it – it must be easy money to some degree! Or col, rather…” His smile widened as he continued on his way. His day had only just begun, but it seemed to be taking all the right turns.

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Word Count: 244

The previous evening had been one of true enjoyment for Zenshu. He’d spent a few extra col – nothing too outrageous – in order to enjoy a slightly fancier meal. It wasn’t much, and yet somehow it had made a world of a difference to him. He had spent some time considering that, thinking about how such a small difference in something as simple as a meal could change his demeanor so much.

The morning sun had awoken him, and as he pulled himself out of the bed he had rented for the night, he considered the fact that for the first time since Sword Art Online had started, Zenshu was able to obtain a full night’s, comfortable rest. It was something he’d become unaccustomed to – although it hadn’t been that long since they’d become trapped in this world, it had been enough for Zenshu to forget some of the basics that he’d enjoyed in the real world. Namely, the comfort of a well-formed bed.

Having spent his fair share the night before, Zenshu chose the path of frugality, deciding that he could handle a slightly lesser breakfast in order to save for a better lunch, or dinner later in the day. ‘Small comforts, when one works so hard. But it is sometimes the little things in the future, that one has to look forward to, that drives one onwards. Even something as simple as a nice lunch can make that morning of work that much easier.’

By the time he had left the inn behind, Zenshu was feeling far more confident in his decision. The breakfast itself had been basic, but enjoyable nonetheless. Especially more so with the knowledge that later on he would be treating himself to something more.

As his feet carried him down the street, he found his mood only improving. He has just turned the first corner, when his ears caught the sound of angered voices. Curiosity overcoming him, he stopped, looking for the cause of the disturbance.

Spotting two players a little ways up the street, the two apparently frustrated at the shop in front of them. Zenshu caught a few aggressive waves towards the shop front, before the two stormed towards Zenshu. As they passed, he caught a portion of their conversation, as they continued cursing about the lack of tailors available in the Town – and the game as a whole.

As they disappeared from sight, Zenshu wandered over to the shop, glancing over the closed sign, and eyeing up the other stalls around him. It became quite apparent the few tailors that had resided here had closed their doors, no longer in business for whatever the applicable reason was.

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Word Count: 445

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Zenshu nodded appropriately as the elderly man spoke, telling a story about western customs and some sort of family – things that were not entirely foreign to Zenshu, but definitely out of context for the situation. Not one to be rude, he politely smiled, nodding where it felt appropriate as the man prattled on.

At the mention of the languages, Zenshu couldn’t restrain himself, his words slipping out almost immediately to correct the misunderstanding – albeit, a good explanation in and of itself. “Well, it’s less that the game reads one’s mind, so much as it comes with an integrated translation software that is generally far beyond the main stream ones available through more conventional markets. Essentially, you think in your common, mother tongue, and the artificial intelligence – Cardinal, which operates everything here – automatically translates whatever you’re saying into the linguistical preference of your target audience, and et al. This way you don’t have the struggle of a delayed communication exercise – essentially you’re registering everything in this game, as though it’s all in your own native tongue. For example – I’d be assuming that you’re speaking, and hearing English, whereas everything for myself would be in Japanese – my own mother tongue. That being said, to each of us it would sound normal, even to the degree of technicality. I’m sure there’s some ‘lost in translation’ moments, but that is generally written off by the mind as little more than misunderstandings, or miscommunications by the speakers…”

His voice trailed off as he realised that he had now been the one carrying on. He bowed slightly in response, giving a half-hearted apology in an attempt to make his embarrassment known. His excitement had clearly gotten the better of him, and carried him away from the moment.

Leading the two on, he listened intently to the conversation between them – there was clearly some sort of connection there, beyond just meeting in the game. Likely the two knew each other from the real world – not entirely uncommon, but Zenshu had the odd feeling that in this case, it was coincidence more than planned knowledge. He smiled, at their good fortune – assuming the best in the situation, regardless of the reality.

As they passed another corridor, Zenshu began casting his eyes about, looking for the well dressed man whom was denoted as the mayor of the Town. The first encounter Zenshu had with the NPC had been…lack luster, but he’d quickly overcome the thoughts he’d had in order to throw himself fully into the quest.

The search didn’t take long – only twenty minutes after they’d left the main court, Zenshu spotted their mark. Casually waving a hand in the direction of the NPC – careful not to point directly – he smiled at the other two players. “The well dressed man over there is the mayor – Dorian. As soon as you approach him, he’ll begin speaking with you, which basically starts the quest. He’ll explain that he needs your help getting a loan – you can basically say whatever you want, other than some surprised responses, he’s pretty straight forward and doesn’t care what you say. Eventually a dialogue box will appear before you. Just hit the accept button – the blue circle – and you’ll have started the quest! Then we can head over to the alchemist’s shop, for the next step!”

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Word Count: 550

Smiling as the elderly man spoke, Zenshu had to refrain from grimacing as the man took his hand in what was likely a sign of respect. The action was far beyond what would’ve been considered appropriate in Zenshu’s world – especially for someone you had just met – but, he assumed the man came from the west, a place the action would likely be acceptable.

He was just about to speak when the younger blonde opened his mouth. The words immediately left Zenshu’s mind as he listened – the tone carried an edge to it, welcoming yet warning. The words themselves were far more vulgar than Zenshu had been used to – even with his limited experience. For a few breaths, he was left speechless as he processed what was said.

“I…yes, I can definitely provide some protection while you help your…friend?...learn the systems. If you haven’t already, I would advise starting with the learners quests – specifically the first lessons quest, where you help the mayor get back money he’s loaned out. It’ll give you a nice little introduction to some of the basics around the world…including how to make things! Well, potions, to start. But it’s definitely a good introduction!”

His beaming smile returned as he spoke, and soon Zenshu’s hesitation had disappeared. At the others suggestion, he pulled up his own menu and sent the friend requests to both individuals, not wanting to leave either out. “There! This way we can all be friends now! And here’s a group request too, so we can party up for the time being! I’d say you’re rather safe in the Town of Beginnings itself, it’s really only out in the wilds that we need to worry…but if we do the quest we’ll be out there soon enough!”

He glanced back the direction he’d been heading, realising he was putting off his own quest. But others were in need of help, and Zenshu wasn’t one to turn away from those who required help. Mentally shrugging away the hesitation – he could come back to the quest after he’d helped them here, after all – Zenshu returned his gaze to the elderly man.

“If you feel up to it, I know the general area that we can find the mayor in order to start the quest! He does move around a bit, but he shouldn’t be too hard to locate if we roam about a bit! Then we can get you started on the very first quest. It’s easy, as I mentioned. Although it does contain some talking, and walking, and searching – oh and some fighting if you choose to go that route. Nothing overly dangerous though! Just some easier boars and wolves, out in the fields!”

Waiting for the reply, Zenshu tensed himself to head off should the others agree to find the mayor. He wasn’t entirely confident that the man would be found in the first spot that they attempted, but he was certain that with some general roaming they would eventually find the NPC.

----

Word Count: 498

Zenshu’s morning had been, well, uneventful. He’d survived the recent endeavours curtailing the required running around – and corresponding actions – that hunting down the mayor’s loan had entailed. He had to admit, as easy as the quests themselves were, the truth was he would’ve preferred a much faster avenue of completion.

“Well, I’ve just got to focus on getting it completed. Sure, it has me running around a lot – but that’s just good exercise and all! Keeps me fit and sharp. Besides…” His self monologue came to an abrupt stop as he turned the corner towards the main court, his eyes and ears fell upon an odd encounter. Pausing, he listened and watched as one player explained to an older looking man how to equip armour – and likely other gear. “Well, that’s…concerning. I should probably go keep an eye on them…just to be safe.”

Nodding to himself, he changed course from his original destination, refocusing on the duo by the entrance. As he approached, his typical beaming smile split his face, and he raised his right hand in a greeting. “Good morning! I’m Zenshu, I heard that you’re going through some basics? Did you plan on heading out into the field? If so, I would be more than happy to accompany you! I’m not the strongest individual, yet, but I can certainly provide some protection services and guidance! Plus, I know my way around fairly well now!”

His beaming smile slid between the two, as he waited for them to answer. The hood of his tunic – pulled up over his blue hair – shifted softly as he turned his smile back and forth between the two. He wasn’t sure what to make of the younger blonde, who towered over Zenshu. The words that the man had used bespoke of a much more outwardly aggressive manner – and he was clearly someone of a more western culture, but Zenshu gave his welcoming smile nonetheless.

-----

Zenshu let his eyes roam over the exterior of the shop. It was very different from the showy, flashy merchants that seemed to scream and shout at anyone who passed by - trying to draw them in for whatever cheap items they were selling. Zenshu ignored most of them - although a few shiny pieces had caught his attention, the shop itself was his desired destination.

Stepping up to the shop's door, Zenshu opened the door and stepped into the shop itself. The rows of weapons, the broken training sword, and the smiling blacksmith all greeted him. He waited patiently for the man to finish speaking, before bowing and stepping forward. 

"I'm actually looking for a weapon! A somewhat specific one, if you're able to...which, looking around I'm sure you're more than capable!" He waved a hand towards the weapons lining the shop's displays. Pulling out his own ninjato, he laid it on the counter - the black of the blade almost seeming to consume the light that touched it. "I'm looking for something similar to this...although with a few modifications, if possible! Do you happen to have an order...ah there!"

Pulling forth the order form, Zenshu took a moment to fill it in before passing it across the counter. "Oh! My name is Zenshu by the way! I'm...well, a player. You'd know that. I've recently made my way towards joining the fight in earnest, so I'm likely to need more equipment over time, and from the looks of it this is a wonderful place to go! You wouldn't happen to do cloth armour, would you? My current tunic is lovely, but I'll need something...well, more, in the future! Do you happen to do them yourself, or know where is best to go to?"

A beaming smile as he listened to the response, before bowing and making his exit. He felt good about this store, and looked forward to returning to it, again and again.

-----------------

Item Name: Shadow

Profession: Blacksmith

Rank: 7

Item Type: Straight Sword

Tier: 2

Quality: Perfect

Enhancements: ACC II / BLD I

Description: A shorter ninjato, this single edge blade is entirely black from the string wrappings on the hilt, to the tip of the blade itself.

The sun – or at least the glow that replicated the sun in this world – had begun to dim as Zenshu made his way back across the fields towards the Town of Beginnings. He spent an unknown amount of time considering his new realisation about the world around him, before eventually noticing that his legs had begun to lock in place. Slowly, mostly due to the limited available movement, he’d begun the small trek back towards safety – unwilling to spend the nights in the fields beyond the walls at this point.

“Funny, how some things transpire…” His eyes seemed distant as he spoke, and contrary to his usual presence of mind he missed the few players who waved a welcome towards him – lost in his own thoughts. “Things certain aren’t always what they appear to be. That much is true…”

His sombre thoughts weighing down on him, Zenshu paused in place, closing his eyes and willing away the negativity that was growing. Bursting into a sudden smile, he spoke quietly to himself before opening his eyes again. “Well, we can never know what the future holds in store for us – that’s what makes it such a wonderful surprise, after all! Imagine how bland it would be if we already knew what was to happen!”

Continuing on his way, Zenshu wound through the Town of Beginnings back towards the inn that he had been spending his time at since the announcement. For the first time since being stuck here, he’d be able to afford more than just the basic amenities – something that had him excited. He’d seen some of the extravagant dishes and rooms that others had been able to afford, but that had been out of his reach previously.

Now, however, he would be able to take his comfort up a level – nothing too over the top, but better than the basics afforded to someone who barely brought home any col. His mind already jumping ahead to the meals that awaited, he almost didn’t notice the notification flashing just above his right hand.

Pulling it up, he found the details for the next quest in the series – requiring him to locate, and convince a Pete Larkin to return the borrowed money from the mayor. Nodding before closing the notification, Zenshu muttered to himself. “Well, Pete, I’m going to visit you – tomorrow, after a good dinner, rest and breakfast. Then you’ll return what you owe – and once I’ve done that, I’ll clear away these simple quests and finally get started on my adventure into the world…and towards joining the frontlines themselves.”

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Word Count: 429

Thread Summary

Word Count: 5,611
5,611 x 10 = 561
1,061 EXP (500 [Quest] + 561 [Thread])
1,220 col (500 [Quest] + 400 [Thread] + 320 [ID209378, 209381])
6 Materials [ID209378, 209381]
Perfect Armour/Shield [ID209378]
Perfect Trinket [ID209378]
Boar Jerky [T1 Perfect Consumable | DMG II | MIT I]
Tealeaf Blade [T1 Uncommon Ninjato | DMG I]

Zenshu let the breath that he’d been holding escape. The tension that had built in his frame since the start of the fight – compiling after the first two strikes that he himself had taken – followed the breath, leaving him feeling deflated.

He sheathed the ninjato, letting it disappear back into his inventory with a swipe of the hand. The sudden exhaustion overwhelming him, he collapsed to the ground – relieved that the fight was over, but also that he had come out victorious.

“Even the simplest of creatures here are a challenge. That’s a good lesson to walk away from. One that I shouldn’t forget, either. Underestimating your opponents here can very well lead to your death – permanently, at that.”

His eyes wandered over the fields around him, following the path of a butterfly that he happened to spot. He still marvelled at the realism that surrounded him. The world, although digital, felt as true to his sense as the real world beyond the game.

“Perhaps…well, perhaps this is my real world, now. At least for the time. I need to stop thinking of it as just a game – it’s more than that, now. If I die here, I die in the real world. I need to eat, need to sleep, need to do just about everything you would normally do in the real world…It’s only fair that I start to think of this as my real world, at least for now.”

The butterfly suddenly disappeared from sight, having dipped into a collection of flowers and out of his field of view. Zenshu stared at the area for a few moments, considering the words. The entire time he’d spent here so far, he’d still been viewing this as a game – right up until a moment ago.

“But…it’s not just a game. This is our world now. This is our reality. I need to start treating it as such.”

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Word Count: 317

Seemingly aware of his intent, the wolf ducked underneath his blows before skirting back around towards the field. Zenshu spun quickly, following the creature in order to keep himself from being pinned in a position like he had attempted to force the wolf into – knowing just how deadly that could turn, if given the chance to permeate. The creature growled and swiped a claw outwards, but wasn’t able to land the blow on the moving form of Zenshu, the strike going wide.

Stepping aside and back, Zenshu allowed some distance to grow between the two of them, taking the respite to catch his breath. “I will say, you are far more challenging than those boars are. I mean that in a complimentary manner. The boars are almost too easy, compared to the challenge you provide – I thank you, for that.”

He swung the blade forwards in a lazy movement, mimicking a poor rendition of what was meant to be a salute of sorts – a manner of acknowledging the skills of the opponent before you. Zenshu had nothing but respect for the creatures – even if they were trying to kill him, at least they were putting up a fair and challenging fight.

“Not to mention a fair chance to attempt to survive. You’ve used your skills, and some of them may be sneakier than I myself am used to engaging in, but in reality you’ve done nothing wrong in doing so – it is but natural. I can only commend you for that.”

He gave himself another intake of breath before pushing him back into motion. Rushing forwards, he waited until the last second before dodging to his left, skirting around the side of the wolf and slashing inwards with the ninjato, hoping to catch the creature on the flank as he went by.

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Zenshu | Lv. 3 | HP: 24/60 | EN: 7/24 | DMG: 7 | Light Momentum [+1 BD]

Wolf 2 | HP: 40/40 | DMG: 16

Round Three

ID209380 | BD: 10+1=11 | <<ST-I vs. Wolf 1>> |  Major Critical Hit: (7+2)x8 = 72 DMG | Wolf 2 is defeated.

Loot Wolf 2 | ID209381 | LD: 2 | CD: 3 | (120+80) col, 2 materials

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Word Count: 302

With the first of the two defeated – little more than shards glittering through the air, before disappearing from sight – Zenshu turned his focus on the remaining opponent. He knew that there was no time to let his guard down – even a single wolf was dangerous to him, now.

“I know what you can do now, and I’m keeping an eye on you…you don’t have the element of surprise anymore – and now with just the single one of you, I can give you my full attention.” He twirled his sword back into the reverse hold, a slight grin spreading across his face as he eyed his target. “Which means that you can’t try any sneaky little tricks on me anymore. You might be quick and quiet, but don’t think I can’t handle that.”

His slow pacing stopped suddenly as he paused for a half breath, before rushing forwards and into the wolf’s space. The ninjato swung inwards and upwards, before lashing out backwards. The wolf dodged around the blade, attempting to break free of the limited space between them – but Zenshu pressed his attack, using the momentum to drive the wolf backwards towards the cliff edge, hoping to score the winning blow – or push the wolf off the edge, whichever would be most effective.

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Zenshu | Lv. 3 | HP: 24/60 | EN: 14/24 | DMG: 7 | Light Momentum [+1 BD]

Wolf 2 | HP: 40/40 | DMG: 16

Round Three

ID209379 | BD: 2 | <<ST-I vs. Wolf 1>> | Miss [-2 EN; Light Momentum]
ID209379 | MOB: 3 | <<Wolf 2 vs. Zenshu>> | Miss

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Word Count: 213

The sudden shift of direction of the wolf left Zenshu with nothing to strike. The open area where the wolf had been was little more than air, and as he turned to try and find the creature, he felt something tear into his left arm. Turning to face it, he found the other wolf grappling him, trying to remove the arm from his body entirely. He brought his sword up, trying to spin it for a downward strike when something slammed into him, tearing him from the grapple and tossing him to the ground.

As he rolled, he spotted the meaning of his sudden tumble. His original target had slammed into him from behind, and as his health bar deteriorated, Zenshu felt the ground scrape his face in numerous places. Driving the blade into the ground, he forced himself to his feet.

“That...that was not nice.” He mumbled to himself as his eyes rose to the health bar in his upper vision. The once green bar had been severely depleted – the strikes taking more than half of his health away. His resolution suddenly broken, Zenshu considered the danger he had placed himself in. “Can’t back out now…need to finish this quickly.”

He swung the blade back into the reverse hold, before raising his left hand before him. Pausing only long enough to sight his target, he flowed into movement once more, closing the distance and lashing out with the blade. As the wolf jumped to avoid the strike, Zenshu shifted his feet and forced his body around, tilting the blade and bringing it back towards the target. The move itself was fumbled, and although it would’ve lost him numerous points in any tournament, Zenshu was far more worried about simply taking down his opponent compared to the form itself.

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Zenshu | Lv. 3 | HP: 24/60 | EN: 15/24 | DMG: 7 | Light Momentum [+1 BD]

Wolf 1 | HP: 0/40 | DMG: 16

Wolf 2 | HP: 40/40 | DMG: 16

Round Two

ID209376 | BD: 9+1=10 | <<ST-I vs. Wolf 1>> | Minor Critical Hit: (7+1)x8 = 64 DMG | Wolf 1 is defeated

ID209376 | MOB: 4 | <<Wolf 2 vs. Zenshu>> | Miss

Looting Wolf 1 | ID209378 | LD: 19 | CD: 7 | 120 col, 4 materials, Perfect Armor/Shield (1), Perfect Trinket (1)

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Word Count: 300

The pair of wolves watched as Zenshu made his way across the field towards them. Neither seemed overly perturbed by his approach, content to simply watch as he continued along. Readying himself, Zenshu eyed up the two, trying to determine if either would be more powerful, or faster, or more resilient than the other. His review of the two was in vein, however. Both appeared identical to his eyes – if there was any difference, he wasn’t able to locate it through visual inspection.

Tossing aside any attempt to find leverage, he decided there was only one course of action to take. “Ill just have to defeat you in turns, I guess. I’m sure you won’t be any more difficult than the mother boar I fought earlier – just a little harder to hit, I guess. Assuming of course that there are different values for your ability to evade attacks, or dodge…I wonder if that’s a skill I could learn? Dodge sounds like it would be useful in a fight…”

Giving the ninjato a quick test swing, he lowered his weight before dashing forward towards the wolves. Almost immediately they reacted to his sudden aggressive movement, the two splitting and attempting to flank him. Zenshu didn’t want to give them the chance to do so, and leapt to his right, his feet twisting on the ground as he spun under and around the closer of the two creatures, before bringing his blade slashing around in a sharp arc.

----

Zenshu | Lv. 3 | HP: 24/60 | EN: 22/24 | DMG: 7 | Light Momentum [+1 BD]

Wolf 1 | HP: 40/40 | DMG: 16

Wolf 2 | HP: 40/40 | DMG: 16

Round One

ID209375 | BD: 4 | <<ST-I vs. Wolf 1>> | Miss [-2 EN; Light Momentum]

ID209375 | MOB: 10 | <<Wolf 1 & Wolf 2 vs. Zenshu>> | Major Critical Hit: 16+2x2 = 36 DMG

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Word Count: 246

A few other players roamed the fields; some engaging groups of boars or wolves together, some wandering about on their own as they searched for whatever it was that they needed. Zenshu watched a couple players tackling a collection of wolves. Battle Axe and curved sword drove the wolves back as the creatures tried to circle around the players, looking for any possible entry through the defences.

“Well, standing around watching won’t get my skills perfected in any way. Let’s see…the boars are tough, but perhaps one of those wolves would provide a challenge based upon their agility…but that also makes them dangerous. If they’re too agile, I won’t be able to catch them…but I guess they also wouldn’t hit as hard as one of the boars. Supposedly, at least…”

His hand raised to brush through his hair, the thoughtful expression on his face only disturbed by the soft smile that split it. He considered his options as he glanced between two groups of possible enemies. The wolves were clearly more agile, but as Zenshu watched he realised that most players seemed intent on fighting the boars. He wasn’t entirely sure why that would be, but he did know that it made him all the more curious.

“Perhaps they just prefer to fight creatures that are big and slow? I doubt that there’s anything seriously more dangerous about the wolves. Besides, it’s all the first level of the game…everything here should be manageable, so long as I don’t run into any field bosses or mid-level enemies.”

Content with his assessment, Zenshu nodded to himself before stepping off from his vantage point. He moved through the fields towards his target – a pair of wolves that had been eyeing some nearby players. Summoning his ninjato into his hand, he pulled the blade from the sheath before swinging it into his reverse hold.

“Wolves it is!”

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Word Count: 313

He eyed the pieces on the table, wondering how such things could be considered worthless. To his eyes, they appeared well made – perhaps not the most beautiful of pieces, but effective battle garments nonetheless.

“I guess that’s the difference between buyer, and craftsman. All these look fabulous to me…” He eyed the collection with hesitation, not wanting to take away from a possible profit, but also not wishing to upset the blacksmith by refusing his pieces either.

“I guess I’ll take these then.” He quickly grabbed a sword and a set of armour at random, before bowing and making his way out the front of the shop. Quickly placing the items in his inventory, he let out a sigh as the notice that the quest had been completed appeared before him.

“Looks like I’ve got to go speak with another individual…I wonder just how many possible loanees there are in this town. It is a big town after all…this could take longer than I expected.” He closed out the notification, before glancing towards the town’s gates again. The day was slowly coming to a close – and he didn’t quite feel like heading down to deal with the third possible individual in this everlasting quest.

Shrugging to himself, he turned back towards the fields – deciding he could do with a bit of fun before heading back to serious work. “Besides, this makes me a far better fighter. It’s all for the benefit of being able to complete things quickly, and make my way toward the top.”

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Word Count: 255

The blacksmith shot a quick look at Zenshu as soon as he had finished speaking, his eyes hovering over the offered items before nodding at a workbench. “I use these on hilts.”

Zenshu nodded as he placed down the tusks, waiting to hear more from the blacksmith. Although he wasn’t too interested in their purpose, he knew that one way to get what you wanted, was to let someone get comfortable – and that sometimes came in the form of allowing them to speak about what they enjoyed, such as their line of work.

“Now, I'll have you know that I don't take loans from anyone, especially men the likes of Dorian White. You might try old Pete Larkin. He spends all his time fishing for river monsters or some such nonsense.” A scoff, before Lyle added to his words. “Without a real job, the man could probably use the charity.”

Zenshu was just about to mention how fishing provided food for the community to eat, and that it was likely a very honourable profession – such as the blacksmith’s own – when the man gestured towards a nearby table.

“Grab yourself a weapon and armor from those bins on your way out. They're about worthless, but consider it payment for the tusks.”

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Word Count: 210

His return walk was slowed as he saw the glint of something in the grass where the final boarlet had fallen. Stooping to collect the item, Zenshu reviewed it closely, noticing the menu as it appeared before him. “Boar Jerky. Huh, that looks like it might be useful in the future!”

Pocketing the piece, he continued his pathway back towards the town, determined to complete the quest now and make his way back to the mayor to return the owed amount. He walked with a content smile, his mood positive as he considered everything he had accomplished as of late.

“I’ve returned!” Zenshu called out into the shop as he pushed his way through the front entryway, smiling as he spotted the white bearded individual hammering away at the anvil once more. Zenshu had to admire the man’s work ethic – he seemed entirely focused on only completing the orders that he had received, regardless of everything else going on.

“I collected those tusks that you requested – and I even managed to thin out the reproductive capabilities of the little ones a bit, although I doubt it’ll have any actual impact on the herds themselves…being that they’re all computer generated and such…” He realised he was ranting, and broke off – flashing another smile at the man who was clearly not listening to a word he was saying anyways.

-----

Word Count: 227

“Well, that worked far better than I could have expected.” Glancing down at the ninjato, Zenshu smiled to himself. He was pleased with how well his new skills had held up in combat – although, he had to admit that his gear was quickly being outpaced by his abilities.

“I wonder if I should bother the blacksmith to see if he could craft me some new pieces…” A sudden thought crossed his mind as he remembered the pieces he had left behind at the appraiser’s store. “Oh! I need to go collect those shortly, I guess. Assuming that they’re done, they did look fairly busy at the time…I’m sure they’ll message me once it’s ready for collection.”

Glancing around, he considered his next steps. He’d managed to collect everything the blacksmith had sent him out for – and more, as he’d promised. Yet he still yearned to continue his spree, and as his gaze roamed over the nearby boars and wolves that roamed freely throughout the area, he considered staying behind for a few moments.

His promises, ringing in the back of his mind, kept him from staying. As his feet turned back towards town, he gave a single smile back towards the landscaping, whispering as he walked. “Don’t you worry, I’ll be back soon enough – and when I do return, it won’t just be to this landscape, but to all the others that are above and beyond…soon enough I’ll be on the front – where I belong. Where I should be.”

-----

Word Count: 249

“Fine. Have it your way, then.” He muttered aloud to the boarlets, before turning in a wide arc. The three strode past, not anticipating the sudden shift that Zenshu had made as he danced around behind the trio. Bounding backwards, he waited for the three to make their quick turns, before continuing their charge towards him – quickly gaining speed again as they came.

“Come on, little piggies. Come meet your end – and once that’s done, I can complete the quest itself! That would be nice, to have this done and over with…and then I can get the mayor his money! Doesn’t that sound fantastic?” One of the boarlets squeaked as it approached. Zenshu took it as a sign of agreement, smiling as he once again launched himself up and over the creatures, landing swiftly behind them.

Not waiting for them to break the distance, he spun and swung outwards with the ninjato, wiping it in a wide arc in an attempt to connect with all three of the creatures and end the fight as fast as possible. He had recently obtained the multi-target attack, and figured now was the best time to test out its effectiveness.

‘Not too difficult of a combatant, so it shouldn’t be too bad if I miss my shot here. Plus, isn’t this a relatively safe enough fight in order to take some leisurely steps? Better here, than somewhere truly dangerous in the far future!’ The words sprang to mind as he watched the blue glow of the blade swipe through the air, seeming to glow against the dark black blade in his hand.

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Zenshu | Lv. 3 | HP: 44/60 | EN: 1/24 | DMG: 7 | Light Momentum [+1 BD]

Boarlet 2 | HP: 0/5 | DMG: 3
Boarlet 3 | HP: 0/5 | DMG: 3
Boarlet 4 | HP: 0/5 | DMG: 3

Round Three
ID209372 | BD: 7+1=8 | <<AOE-I vs. Boarlet 2>> | Hit: 7x3 = 21 DMG | Boarlet 2 is defeated
ID209373 | BD: 8 | <<AOE-I vs. Boarlet 2>> | Hit: 7x3 = 21 DMG | Boarlet 3 is defeated
ID209374 | BD: 10 | <<AOE-I vs. Boarlet 2>> | Hit: (7+2)x3 = 27 DMG | Boarlet 4 is defeated

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Word Count: 268

The three remaining moved with an agility that caught Zenshu by surprise. He had figured that with their smaller mass, they’d be able to turn quicker, but their overall speed had an almost impressive standing to it – had they been able to coordinate better, he felt that he would have a bit more fear of them.

As if reading his mind, he suddenly felt the slamming of three impacts against his legs, forcing him to his knees as each small boar slammed into him from different angles. Knuckles scrapping the ground as he fought to remain upright, as best as possible, Zenshu cursed himself for not remaining alert.

“Pack tactics. Dangerous. I definitely need to keep an eye on you three, lest I be felled by babies. Wouldn’t that just be sad, in its own way? At least, for me, you lot would be cheered as heroes, I think!” He pushed himself to his feet once more, lashing out with the blade the moment any of them came clear, chittering in frustration as they ducked out of his reach once more.

Sliding over top of one of the creatures, he dashed a distance away – hoping to place some space between himself and his attackers for a few moments while he collected himself. He felt his teeth grind as he turned to find the boarlets pursuing him, closing the distance he had attempted to make almost immediately.

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Zenshu | Lv. 3 | HP: 44/60 | EN: 7/24 | DMG: 7 | Light Momentum [+1 BD]

Boarlet 2 | HP: 5/5 | DMG: 3
Boarlet 3 | HP: 5/5 | DMG: 3
Boarlet 4 | HP: 5/5 | DMG: 3

Round Three
ID209361 | BD: 5 | <<ST-I vs. Boarlet 2>> | Miss [-2 EN; Light Momentum]
ID209361 | MOB: 9 | <<Boarlet 1 vs. Zenshu>> | Minor Critical Hit: 3+1 = 4 DMG
ID209361 | MOB: 9 | <<Boarlet 2 vs. Zenshu>> | Minor Critical Hit: 3+1 = 4 DMG
ID209361 | MOB: 9 | <<Boarlet 3 vs. Zenshu>> | Minor Critical Hit: 3+1 = 4 DMG

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Word Count: 236 *ID209361 listed as Mama Boar in error.

The boarlets let out a surprised cry as Zenshu’s blade sliced through the mother's side, causing the health bar of the mother boar to deplete entirely as the sword art tore into it. He took no comfort or satisfaction in the success of his attack, knowing that the fight was far from over yet.

Zenshu turned to find four of the little creatures making their way across to him, their cries signifying the loss they were simulating, now that their mother was gone. He felt a moment of hesitation as the creatures surrounded him, their tiny bodies pressing towards him as they vied for their revenge.

Slashing outwards with his sword, Zenshu aimed for the lead of the pack – hoping to break their sudden courage before it could overwhelm him. He knew they were tiny – and likely little threat to him in reality, but he didn’t want to waste any time putting them down.

“Besides, the blacksmith is likely awaiting my return – it would be rude and inconsiderate not to end this as quickly as possible, so that I can return to complete the quest.” He gave a nod as he realised that the first creature had exploded into shards, leaving the other three rushing past him and into the field a few steps beyond.

He turned, facing them as they rebounded backwards – their little bodies able to turn quicker than their larger counterparts, providing them with a quicker retaliation than the mother had been able to front.

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Zenshu | Lv. 3 | HP: 60/60 | EN: 8/24 | DMG: 7 | Light Momentum [+1 BD]

Boarlet 1 | HP: 0/5 | DMG: 3
Boarlet 2 | HP: 5/5 | DMG: 3
Boarlet 3 | HP: 5/5 | DMG: 3
Boarlet 4 | HP: 5/5 | DMG: 3

Round Three
ID209360 | BD: 7 | <<ST-I vs. Boarlet 1>> | Hit: 7x8= 56 DMG | Boarlet 1 is defeated
ID209360 | MOB: 1 | <<Boarlet 2, Boarlet 3, Boarlet 4 vs. Zenshu>> | Miss

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Word Count: 248 *ID209361 listed as Mama Boar in error.

The boar moved quickly beneath Zenshu as he twirled above and beyond the creature. His blade slashed through the air, slashing strongly against the boar as it continued on past, leaving Zenshu to collapse on the ground roughly.

Determined not to present himself as an easy target, he pushed himself up and moving, dashing around to the right side of the boar in an attempt to close the distance between the two of them once more – relying on his quick reactions in a hope that he could somehow overwhelm the larger opponent quickly.

“Just need to land one, or maybe two, good hits on you! If you would just hold still long enough…although, I guess that would be counter intuitive to your own survival desires – wouldn’t it?” His words continued effortlessly as he ducked and dodged around the bucking head of the boar, dodging out of what would likely be rather unpleasant piercings if the tusks managed to catch his torso.

He felt himself getting pushed further and further back – his dance forcing him to retreat continuously as he avoided the twin points of the boar. A quick glance backwards told him that he didn’t have much more distance to go, before he reached an edge – what was beneath wasn’t visible to him with his quick glance, but he knew that he didn’t want to find out. Sliding underneath another failed strike, Zenshu lashed out with his blade, bringing the smaller sword slicing inwards and upwards in an attempt to drive his opponent backwards in retaliation.

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Zenshu | Lv. 3 | HP: 60/60 | EN: 9/24 | DMG: 7 | Light Momentum [+1 BD]

Mama Boar | HP: 0/60 | DMG: 15 | MIT: 5 | EVA: -1

Round Two
ID209359 | BD: 4+2=6 | <<ST-I vs. Mama Boar>> | Hit: 7x8= 56 DMG | Mama Boar is defeated.

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Word Count: 256

Lifting a small stone, Zenshu tested the weight in his hand. It felt light, for its size, but he assumed it would work all the same. Pulling back his arm, he tossed the stone across the field towards the boar, hoping to catch it on its flank and pull its attention towards him. Instead, the stone skipped harmlessly into the field well beyond the boar – clearly missing its mark, and leaving the creature undisturbed.

Huffing slightly, Zenshu picked up another stone, pulling his arm back once more and taking a moment to aim the piece this time. Closing a single eye, he launched the stone in a strong overhand toss, watching as it flew almost perfectly straight through the air before slamming into the mother boar’s nose.

He had just started to celebrate his success when the boar suddenly charged towards him, the large creature dashing across in a flash as Zenshu rolled off to the side in the last instance before contact. Drawing his blade backwards, he forced himself to his feet before turning to face his opponent. Bowing his head slightly, he launched himself forwards, bringing the blade close in to himself in preparation for his swing. As he closed the distance, he felt himself smile, relishing the sudden return to combat once more.

“I could come to enjoy this, truly.” The whispered words followed the soft blue glow of the blade as he rushed the boar, pushing off in the last instance and attempting to twirl around in the air.

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Zenshu | Lv. 3 | HP: 60/60 | EN: 16/24 | DMG: 7 | Light Momentum [+1 BD]

Mama Boar | HP: 4/60 | DMG: 15 | MIT: 5 | EVA: -1

Round One
ID209358 | BD: 5+1=6 | <<ST-I vs. Mama Boar>> | Hit: 7x8= 56 DMG
ID209358 | MOB: 3 | <<Mama Boar vs. Zenshu>> | Miss

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Word Count: 253

The boarlet’s had been easy enough to find – they were tiny compared to the boars that Zenshu had fought earlier. He could see how these would be considered the best possible things for a learner’s quest, they appeared weak and rather slow compared to their larger brethren. The danger had been found in the larger, clearly protective mother that seemed to hover around them – always on guard and watching for any threats to her digital children.

“Well, just need to find a way to separate some of you, I guess.” He drew his ninjato, swinging it into the more comfortable backhanded grasp that he had come to use in this world. Giving it a couple of test swings, he nodded once he was content, before considering his options.

“Then again…I could just deal with the big one, and then clear out the little ones afterwards…Assuming that she isn’t too dangerous. But the game wouldn’t put something that deadly here, where new players are roaming. That wouldn’t be fair, or logical.” He nodded in agreement with his own testimony, as if that somehow cemented the idea into a reality.

Shifting along the outer edges of the area that the boarlets and mother had remained within, Zenshu watched for some way to pull the mother away from the others. As time slowly passed, his patience starting to wane, he considered a different method.

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Word Count: 231

Sighing heavily, the blacksmith laid his hammer down before wiping his hands on his apron. “I don’t do anything without payment. Go kill a couple of those pesky boarlets for me, and bring back their tusks. They’re pretty weak, so even you shouldn’t have any trouble. Do that, then I’ll hear you out.”

Zenshu nodded enthusiastically, bowing slightly before responding. “Absolutely! I’ll ensure to get you the best tusks that I can find! It won’t be a problem, not at all. And if I find anything else of use, I’ll bring that back as well – just to make doubly sure that I’m not wasting you time and all!”

A scowl from the blacksmith chased Zenshu out the door as he retreated, careful not to anger the hammer wielding man any further. He turned away from the shop once he was outside, his smile disappearing with a loud sigh.

“Not the most friendly man in the world, clearly. I wonder how he manages to maintain a good clientele when he’s so unwelcoming. He must have some excellent skills in smithing, because his social manner is atrocious.” Zenshu muttered to himself as he once again made his way towards the front gates. He cocked his head and waved as he passed the guard, once again continuing a tradition started long before him – and likely to continue long after him, so long as Aincrad remained.

He paused briefly on the other side of the gates, admiring the wide open fields before him. He had to admit, the game rendered the scenario so perfectly, that it was sometimes hard to remember that this wasn’t reality, that it was all just computer generated imagery.

“Truly remarkable, when one stopped to consider it…” Pulling his attention back to the task, he set off in search of the tiny little boars that he would need to defeat, his sheathed sword in hand once more.

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Word Count: 317

His face breaking into a smile, Zenshu pushed his way into the blacksmith’s shop, the pungent smell of the forge and smelting metals slamming into Zenshu’s senses almost immediately. Grimacing slightly, he tried to move passed the wall of smoke that permeated the entranceway.

Beyond the smoke he found another white bearded man, similar in general appearance to the first he’d been sent to visit. The man – well muscled and clearly used to heavy work, hammered away at a piece on the anvil, focused entirely on his work.

Unperturbed by the fact that he was likely interrupting the man – he had been sent to do so, anyways, hadn’t he? – Zenshu strode forward, widening his smile and waving a hand in greeting as he stopped before the blacksmith. “Oh, hello there! I was sent by the mayor to collect some funding that you were provided. Apparently the mayor – well, he would like to retrieve the loan that he lent out. I guess there’s a need for the money now!”

“I’m busy.” The reply was short and emotionless – but the eyes bespoke a measure of annoyance at the interruption. Zenshu nodded, refusing to let the single response deter him from completing the quest that he had been given.

“Yes, I can see that! Finely work, from what I can see too! But, you see, well, the mayor has sent me off on an errand, and I am expected to see that errand completed.” He beamed his smile again, hoping that it would offset the negative attitude that the blacksmith was showering him with. As the terse silence lengthened, Zenshu began considering the fact that he may have missed something important in the directions. He hadn’t expected the blacksmith to be so resistant.

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Word Count: 290